March 2015

BuccaneerBulletin March 2015 Volume 3 Number 5

Oswego High School’s Student Voice

WE’VE GOT MAGIC TO DO! Pippin Page 3 Scholastic Art Competition Pages 8 & 9 Body Shaming Page 13 www.buccaneerbulletin.com

Editorial

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Drawing Board

Buccaneer Bulletin Oswego High School’s Student Voice Editor-in-Chief Rachael Purtell Managing Editor Hannah Griffin Business Manager Courtney Osmun Webmaster Lisa Kanbur Chief Photographer Elizabeth Sincavage Art Director Olivia DeLorenzo Alumni Editor Amber Canbek Sports Editor Chase Pelton Layout Editor Mariya Hirna Reporters Hannah Cali Victoria Armet

CARTOON BY KAYLA VOLKOMER

. . . to Mr. John Canale and Mrs. Cheryl Rogers for receiving the Teacher of Excellence Award from Senator Patty Ritchie. . . . to our maintenance staff for keeping up with all of the snow removal.

Advisers Bill Reeser Heidi Conland Sheffield

. . . to the Winterguard’s home shows “British Invasion” by the Junior Varsity Winterguard and “For the Lives Not Finished” by the varsity Winterguard on March 7! . . . to the start of the spring sports season! Good luck to all competing sports teams in their upcoming games!

The Buccaneer Bulletin, a member of the Empire State School Press Association, and The Quill and Scroll, is published periodically by the students of the Oswego High School, 2 Buccaneer Blvd.; Oswego, New York 13126; (315) 341-2200.

It is intended as a vehicle to inform, educate, and entertain the student body.

Opinions expressed are those of the students and do not necessarily reflect those of the administration or the advisers.

On the Cover: Senior Matt Spaulding stars as the Lead Player in Pippin! This month’s cover photo was taken by Rachael Purtell.

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. . . to Superintendent Halsey for the early notifications regarding delays and closings. . . . to the Staff Development Day on Friday, March 20. Students appreciate the unexpected extra long weekend!

. . . to frozen water pipes throughout the city due to the extremely harsh winter conditions. . . . to the continued conflicts due to students parking in the Liberty Street parking lot. Action has been taken by administration with little to no student representation. . . . to the flight debacle that caused a large number of students to be delayed several hours on their way home from Senior Trip. . . . to many spring sports teams being forced to hold their tryouts inside with limited gym space due to inclement weather. www.buccaneerbulletin.com

March 2015

Editorial In Our View . . .

Prejudice is a present problem Although over 96.6 percent of the United States population self-identifies as straight, a significant 1.6 percent of the population self-identifies as gay or lesbian according to The Huffington Post.

Unfortunately, this 1.6 percent of people did not get a fair vote in society’s definition of “normal” and are often subjected to the prejudices of straight people.

Individuals have been bullied, beaten, attacked, and even murdered for being gay. Although religious intolerance is often a source of potential violence, there are many other potential causes as well. Regardless of the cause, members of the Lesbian-Gay-BisexualTransgender (LGBT) community suffer discrimination and abuse at the hands of those who disagree with their lifestyles.

Discrimination against the LGBT community occurs at all ages. About one fourth of all students from elementary school through high school experience bullying and harassment on or around school property for some attribute that is not accepted as the “societal norm.” Unfortunately, this includes sexual orientation.

According to gaybullyingstatistics. org, gay and lesbian teens are two to three times more likely to commit suicide than any other youth. The website also says that about 30 percent of all completed suicides are related to a sexual identity crisis. A 2005 survey also reported that actual or perceived sexual orientation was the second leading cause of bullying in schools across the country that year.

Teenagers are at a pivotal point in their young adult lives. High school is a time when students attempt to both create their own identity and obtain a secure level of comfort with who they are and who they are about to become as adults.

This is why bullying and harassment of aspects of this very identity can be so damaging in the long-term; the way students are treated in high school as a result of their personal qualities can negatively impact an individual’s self-esteem and view of themselves for the rest of their life.

Fortunately, Oswego High School’s Acceptance Coalition works hard year-round to help make our school an environment in which students feel comfortable to be themselves. This nondiscriminatory, anti-harassment group’s goal is to support gender and sex minorities and promote tolerance and acceptance for all high school students.

After looking at national statistics in a recent meeting, adviser of the Acceptance Coalition, Ms. Erin Reilly, stated, “We were really surprised as a group about how much violence and discrimination there is in other districts.”

Although OHS seems to be better off in this area than other schools districts, students who are being bullied as a result of their actual or perceived sexual orientation are encouraged to tell a trusted adult.

Acceptance Coalition advisor Mrs. Darlene Favata stated, “Silence isn’t an option, if it’s happening to one person, it’s probably happening to somebody else.”

Acceptance Coalition President Ryan Smith also encourages students to trust those close to them even if they are not necessarily an adult in power.

He stated, “Confide in your friends, don’t be worried that they won’t accept you and if they don’t

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then they’re not your friend.”

Many people debate the cause of homosexuality and whether it is genetic, environmental, or a combination of the two. We, at The Buccaneer Bulletin, appreciate the curiosity, however, the end result is the same regardless of the cause. Individuals who are homosexual simply behave in a manner they feel is natural and unchangeable just like heterosexuals.

Throughout history, minorities have faced prejudice and discrimination as a result of characteristics they have no control over such as skin color or ancestry and sexual orientation is no exception. Fortunately, progress has been made for the LGBT community as same-sex marriage is now legal in many countries and over half the states in the U.S. The concept of “traditional marriage” is fluid and has changed over time. Until two centuries ago, monogamist marriages were the minority and were only found in Western Europe and small settlements in North America. Another significant change is that interracial marriage was also banned in many states in the U.S. until the 1950s and individuals were not permitted to marry someone whose skin color was different from his or her own.

However, as Favata stated, “Love is love,” and those in love should not be denied marriage as a result of any physical or personal attribute.

Couples who wed gain access to 1,138 benefits, protections, and rights including hospital visitation during an illness, the option of filing a joint tax return to reduce a tax burden, access to family health coverage, US residency and family unification for partners from another country, and bereavement leave and inheritance rights if a partner dies.

Denying same-sex marriage would therefore deny much more than a wedding to homosexuals.

Reilly stated, “It affects the two people in the marriage and nobody else.”

Many people argue that the purpose of marriage is for procreation, but, in reality, the ability or desire to produce offspring has never been a qualification for marriage. Otherwise, people who are infertile or who simply do not wish to have children would not be allowed to marry either. In fact, according to procon. org, married couples without children outnumber those with children by nine percent.

Although administrative approval is still pending, the Acceptance Coalition is planning a week of events in mid-April designed to recognize the LGBT community and educate people at OHS. Anyone wishing to get involved in their goal to make OHS a safe place free of harassment is welcome and encouraged to attend one of the Acceptance Coalition’s meetings on the first and third Wednesday of every month.

Prejudice, discrimination, and bullying are problems that will never go away completely and LGBT community members currently endure an unreasonable amount of all of these problems. We, at The Buccaneer Bulletin, believe that the same-sex marriage debate is based on ignorance and inaccurate information and we respect individuals of any and all sexual orientations and are optimistic of more success to come in the battle for marriage equality. www.buccaneerbulletin.com

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What’s Your Opinion?

“Do you think that our school is accepting of homosexuality?”

Mark Forger Senior

“Yeah, teachers and faculty are pretty accepting and are there for any student that needs them.”

Kate Breezee Junior

“It’s half and half, some people are and some people aren’t.”

Will Bandla Sophomore

“Honestly, it’s hard to tell due to the conflict in the beginning of the year. I can’t say administration is against it, but they could be more supportive.”

Reese Davis Freshman

“Yes, because there are so many homosexual couples in our school.”

Mr. Thom Caswell

Assisted Learning Center

“I do think so, and it’s common to see openly gay couples in the hallway, however, I do think there is some bias among some individuals.”

Miss Jordan Mangano Substitute Teacher

“I’d like to lean more towards the yes side, but I have not been here long so I don’t know the culture that well yet.”

March 2015

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Features

TV Club sparks creativity with Frozen Film Fest

By Chase Pelton Sports Editor

For the first time, the Oswego High School TV Club sponsored the Frozen Film Festival in February aiming to encourage an interest in film production around the school.

From February sixth to the thirteenth participants were tasked with creating a short film about what they would do on a snow day. They were a given a short list of requirements that they had to include in the video.

The requirements were the video must contain a carrot, hot chocolate, and a tennis racket. Video must be between two and a half and three minutes. The video also had to contain the phrase “tomfoolery” or “Sometimes my greatest accomplishments is just keeping my mouth shut.” The entries could not contain more than four people to one group whose names would go on the film along with an entry fee of five dollars.

The OHS TV Club decided to host this festival using club funds in order to hopefully establish an annual contest.

Although the contest was local this year, the club has not ruled out future contests growing in size and scope. This contest also offered an opportunity for

students to have their work reviewed by someone who is involved in the field of communications to see how their work measures up against that of others.

After a week of deliberation from the judge, Mackenzie Gabriel, senior Liam Peterson was chosen as the winner of the festival. His film took on a comedic tone and involved two brothers, one of whom turned into a cup of coffee and was then thrown out by the other. He entered the contest and took home the $150 prize.

Peterson has been making video and short films since seventh grade and plans on studying film in college.

He had a few comments about the Frozen Film Festival in comparison to other contests he has entered.

Peterson explained that while all films with requirements present some challenges, this festival had reasonable requirements. He also said since this one was smaller scale than others, it is a good place for newcomers to film to start and can be a very fun experience.

Peterson said, “I always get a good laugh at the final project and this was a lot less stressful than other films I’ve been working on.”

Participants enjoyed themselves, showing the Frozen Film Festival has

high potential to be a recurring event as TV Club supervisor Mr. Jamie Sykut had hoped at the beginning.

Sykut introduced the idea to the club several months in advance to allow for planning and voting to take place. From PHOTO COURTESY OF MR. JAMIE SYKUT Senior Liam Peterson (left) split his grand prize of the start, he 150 dollars with fellow senior Mark Taormina (right) in told the club he hoped this could exchange for his assistance with the production of his film. happen year to setting.” year.

With high hopes for the contest Sykut also hopes this will help everyone will have to wait and see how boost student made content throughout it turns out in coming years. the school as for only a five dollar When taking into account this was entry fee, participants had a chance at the first OHS Frozen Film Festival, winning sizeable prizes. He also hopes the turnout was quite impressive with this festival will bring more attention to twelve entrants, and the prizes were the TV programs the school offers and sizeable for a local first ever festival. gets more students involved with them. The festival shows promise and Sykut said, “I’d like to expand potential to grow in scope and continue it to have a wider audience and have on as a yearly event that the OHS TV a screening for the films in a theatre Club proudly hosts.

Dynamic duo aims to promote artistic ability

By Victoria Armet Reporter

This year, Mr. Warren Shaw decided that two students in yearbook would put together a literary magazine. The students who were chosen to create the magazine were seniors Rachael Purtell and Jaielle Litchison.

Purtell excels at reading, writing, and proofreading, which makes sense since she is the editor-in-chief of The Buccaneer Bulletin, and Litchison is talented at design and has an eye for art and photography.

This makes them the perfect pair to work on a magazine meant to display these sorts of talents.

“This book is something that is meant to showcase some of the many talented people at OHS,” said Litchison.

It will include things such as poetry, short stories, photography, jewelry, art pieces, graphic art designs, sculptures, and songs.

As co-editors, Purtell and Litchison have put a great deal of time into the magazine. They worked together to decided what will and will not be put in and handed out information to the students and displayed posters around the school.

The book has a theme, which is meant to be a surprise and will look similar to the yearbooks given out

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in elementary and middle school. It will be free for anyone but limited copies will be printed so those who are interested should make sure to look for announcements around the time that the yearbook comes out so they do not miss the opportunity to get one.

By having a literary magazine, there is an opportunity for students to display their work and let others see what they are capable of even if they do not put their name on it. It is a chance to have their work published and viewed and even receive compliments or constructive criticism.

A few people have submitted things, which can be done anonymously, but most entries are taken from the photography contest and the art contest at this point. Some students have shown a desire to submit something but have not gotten around to it.

“By getting the word out, I hope more people will read this and want to send in more pieces,” said Litchison.

Even though the original deadline for submissions was March 1, the deadline is being extended to March 30 in order to allow for more submissions, preferably writing pieces such as songs, short stories, and poetry. Everyone is encouraged to submit something.

To submit a piece, email it to Rachael Purtell at rpurtell@oswego. org.

March 2015

Features

5

New positions incite change for students and staff the end of the year.

Gryczka is also settling The start of the spring well into his new office. semester brought some “So far it has been great,” changes to OHS. Science he said. teacher, Dr. Heidi Sweeney, He has enjoyed getting to and Dean of Students, Mr. see students he usually does David Gryczka both took on not get to work with. new job titles.

“It has been busy but Sweeney took over wonderful,” Gryczka said.

Gryczka’s role as the Dean Used to dealing with of Students. Gryczka is now student discipline, Gryczka the Athletic Director, which now deals with schedules, was previously held by Mr. coaches, athletes, and Michael Conners. Conners attending sporting events in is now a physical education the evening. teacher at Kingsford Park Gryczka will be Elementary School. evaluating how things go Sweeney previously over the next few months taught Living Environment to see how things could and Anatomy and Physiology run more efficiently. He is PHOTOS BY ELIZABETH SINCAVAGE at OHS. looking forward to making She said, “The transition improvements.

To the right, Dr. Sweeney is settled in to her new office and her walls have received a fresh coat of paint as well as a mural displaying Oswego City School District’s mission is going really well. I have “I hope to move forward statement. To the left, Mr. David Gryczka is seated happily in his new office getting enjoyed switching. Everyone as an athletic department,” used to his new job. One of his main goals is to get coaches to stress the importance of is nice and helpful.”

Gryczka stated. maintaining good academic standards throughout the year to their student athletes.

She misses teaching in a It seems that both classroom, but she is enjoying Sweeney and Gryczka are working with students on a having smooth transitions to home every day smiling,” said Sweeney. larger scale. Her day may be harder to plan as more their new positions. Both are excited to be in their Students at OHS should not expect any big things pop up than when she was in the classroom changes. Principal Ms. Erin Noto and Sweeney plan new positions, have a positive attitude, and are but being busy makes the day go by faster. “I go excited to be working with new groups of students. on keeping everything consistent at least through

By Elizabeth Sincavage Chief Photographer

Custodian retells tragedies of Tiananmen Square

By Victoria Armet Reporter

June fourth of 1989, Chinese soldiers arrived at Tiananmen Square at 1:00 a.m. and began firing at student protesters. Many people were run over by government tanks.

Currently at Fredrick Leighton Elementary School as a custodian is Mei Bookman. Bookman was born in China and participated in the Tiananmen Square protest which is also remembered as a massacre.

Since Bookman was the first child her parents had, she was given away to another family until the age of seven because she was a girl. However, when she did go back to her family, the fact that her parents were high ranking in the Chinese Army became very helpful to her.

In China, schools were focused on children learning the basics. They paid money for special studies to learn more in depth information, before becoming more of an army training camp with learning of the typical school subjects on the side.

Since her parents held relatively high positions, Mae did not have to join the army like the typical thirteen year olds.

Even with this privilege, Bookman stayed at school from Sunday night to late Friday evening.

“We woke up at five and ran for 40 minute and then at seven we had a

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quick 15 minute breakfast,” Bookman said. In all the training, girls did the same as boys with no exceptions.

Bookman talked about how the school taught them how to shoot a gun.

“It wasn’t real or anything, it wasn’t like we were shooting people, but they did make use learn how to properly use the guns,” Bookman said.

However, school finished in ninth

When Yaobang died on April 15, 1989, the protests officially started. Three days later thousands of student marched through the capital to Tiananmen Square to demand a democratic government. The government handled it through fear and decided not to respond to the demands.

Almost a month later over 100 students joined together on a hunger strike in Tiananmen Square which is

“Everyone held hands and there was no way to leave even if you wanted to.” ~Mei Bookman

FLS Custodian

grade for Bookman.

“It wasn’t like you actually learned something, you could move up to the next grade without doing anything,” Bookman said.

Bookman said the difficult part of coming to America was trying to actually learn something.

The military approach, though, was what attracted Chinese students around 1989 to Hu Yaobang. Yaobang was a communist party leader in China who had been working toward open political freedom and was viewed as a symbol of democratic reform to many.

considered to be “a gate of heavenly peace.” By May 19, the rally had grown to roughly 1.2 million people.

Zhao Ziyang, General Secretary of the Chinese Communist Party, responded to the huge number of people in the square by coming to the rally and pleading for an end to the demonstrations. When this failed, Li Peng, the Premier of the People’s Republic of China, imposed martial law (a temporary law that is put in place when civilian authorities fail to function properly).

By June 1, photographing and videotaping was banned but the

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protests continued. On June 2, singer Hou Dejian sang in the square in support of the demonstrations and brought over 100,000 people to listen.

Bookman and her brother were both in the square on June 4 when Chinese soldiers appeared.

“Everyone held hands and there was no way to leave even if you wanted to,” Bookman said.

She described the event as complete chaos and as one of the scariest moments of her life.

The following day, a protester who became known as Tank Man stood in front of the tanks that had just spent the last day running over students in the square and refused to move. For some unknown reason, the tanks did not run him over and after several minutes others eventually came and dragged him away.

In April 2011, The Chinese National Museum of China opened in Tiananmen Square. There was no mention of the massacre anywhere.

“Since there were not any cameras allowed, they decided that they could easily deny it ever happened even though everyone knows,” Bookman said.

Soon after the protest, Bookman left China and came to live in the United States, but her brother stayed. She often misses her family and friends but does not miss the China she remembers.

March 2015

6

Features

Music department makes magic with Pippin learning the music. If I’d mess up something, he’d tag it and we’d go over it until it was right,” stated Osmun.

Fastrada played by junior Olivia Flint echoed these sentiments. “Our instructors were beyond dedicated to the task at hand. They gave up all of their time for this musical and were very approachable and always there to help. They managed to make rehearsals fun while at the same time pushing us to work our hardest,” Flint said.

There were countless funny

you are playing to truly play a part well. I love the feeling when the crowd laughs, it makes me feel like I have done my job as an actor.”

Forger agreed and stated, “You see, you don’t really play your character. When you act, your character is an extension of yourself.

There’s always a little bit of yourself in them, but it’s also a really fun way to be someone you’re not in everyday life. It gives you a chance to escape from reality for a little bit and try something new.”

The audience’s attention was

Time At All.” Hanna stated, “Rachel Leotta as Editor-in-Chief Oswego High School continued Berthe was a perfect match and I really the tradition of phenomenal theater loved her performance.” productions with the production of Leotta said, “It was really fun to Pippin in February. The directors, play an old lady, especially as she cast, and the production crew worked was smoking and drinking the whole tirelessly for months to perform this scene. It was very different from the unique musical for two magical nights. stereotypical grandmother character.”

Director and choral instructor Mr. Next, Flint came back onstage and Robert Dumas stated, “Mr. Heater blew the audience away with arguably and I work diligently to select a show one of the best solos in the show. that we feel will be both a challenge Students, teachers, and parents sitting for the students of OHS and therefore in the house were shocked by the a learning experience, but a show amazing vocal talent Flint displayed in which they find joy in as she sang “Spread A Little performing. We also consider Sunshine.” the recent history of shows, Flint said, “As soon as not only at the high school, but I stepped out of sight I was at local venues as well, never beaming with joy. I felt that I wanting to repeat a show too had successfully reached my soon or do too many of the goals for my performance. I same type of show in a row. felt fulfilled, but at the same Pippin has recently been on time, I felt empty. That was Broadway in a new revival the last time I would ever get production which made it to be Fastrada.” especially appealing.”

Another impressive Pippin humorously tells moment in the show was the story of the maturation of when the cast deviated from Pippin, the son of the fabled the original script to end Act Charlemagne. Throughout his I just after Pippin (Osmun) journey of self-discovery, he killed Charles (Forger) and explores his emotions through Forger had to lay perfectly war, murder, and sexual desire. still throughout the entire The show contained intermission. unique aspects including a He stated, “Saturday night video screen as a backdrop for when I “died” I accidently several scenes and a projector fell on top of my dagger. displaying images enhancing The handle was digging into the performance. my ribcage for the entire Photo by Rachael Purtell Before the play even intermission and I couldn’t Junior Kyle Osmun enjoyed his experience playing the role of such a relatable character. began, it was clear that the do anything about it. The next He stated, “He was very human and had to make all these big choices and decisions. The day I looked and I had a bruise 46 members of the chorus main thing for me to remember was growth, Pippin had to grow every night.” blended well together. No shaped like the handle.” one person drew unnecessary Shortly after Act II began, attention to themselves as they were moments throughout the show. Senior directed to the far right of the stage Osmun and Spaulding sang “Right all seemingly wandering around Lexi Hanna said, “I enjoyed the where Fastrada’s (Flint’s) hand was Track” reminding audience members onstage awaiting their first cue liberality of this musical compared to found running up and down the chest of their many excellent performances and their concentration continued others. I’ve found musicals such as of the Leading Player (Spaulding). as the Green Myle. throughout the production.

Evita and The Secret Garden, while Flint stated, “Playing the character Spaulding stated, “Kyle Osmun is Teacher Kaylee Morse said, “I remarkable shows, not as enjoyable of Fastrada was like embodying the easily one of my best friends so it was did not know what to think, but the for high school students as much as spitting image of everything I was even more of an amazing experience to students certainly had me intrigued musicals like Pippin.” taught not to be: arrogant, devious, share the spotlight with him.” from the moment I walked into the In the second scene, for example, ego-centric, and seductive. I had to Shortly after the Osmun-Spaulding theatre.” the audience witnessed senior Mark portray such an array of emotions, duet, the audience was introduced to The opening number began with Forger as King Charles and his son, and although challenging, it was the leading lady, Catherine, played by a spotlight focused on senior Matt Pippin (Osmun), greet each other with exhilarating.” senior Kaylee Baldwin.

Spaulding, the Leading Player, as he a singing conversation.

Later, sophomore Doug Hanna stated, “Her (Baldwin’s) sang the first of many solos of the Forger stated, “After working Schneider’s severed head got a few voice and how she acts were night. on the same material for months laughs as Pippin (Osmun) crouched exactly how I would have imagined Former director and choral you become desensitized to what’s down next to it and the Leading Player Catherine’s character.” instructor Mrs. Veronica Shaver supposed to be funny. Then you (Spaulding) rested his foot on it and As the show came to a close, stated, “I very much enjoyed Matt’s just have to remember not to truck danced with it. many of the seniors in the cast became performance. I think he did a through the laughter. You don’t want Shaver stated, “It is rewarding emotional as their performing career at wonderful job, very confident, relaxed, the audience to miss anything while to see some of my former students Oswego High School came to an end. and he played the part well.” they’re laughing. now after three years out come out of Flint stated, “It was my last show The players continued to blend Soon after, senior Ryan Smith their shells. I knew there was a lot of with so many good friends. It was very well together as they linked arms to came prancing out onto the stage. potential in some of these students, but sad, but as the tears flowed, we all had give junior Kyle Osmun who played Morse stated, “Ryan Smith as it sometimes takes a couple of years smiles on our faces.”

Pippin wings during his number Lewis made me laugh every time he for them to really blossom.”

Dumas said, “As with every group “Corner of the Sky.” Osmun’s vocal was onstage.”

In the following scene, the of seniors, it’s hard to imagine them talent was showcased throughout the Smith said, “I have to admit that audience spent a short time singing not being there next year. But, we show. a lot of what I did came naturally to along with Pippin’s grandmother always know that there are others “Dumas was very adaptive me. I feel that you always have to put Berthe played by sophomore Rachel chomping at the bit to show us what throughout the whole process of a little of yourself into the character Leotta as she got them to sing “No they’ve got.”

By Rachael Purtell

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March 2015

Point/Counter-Point

7

Has political correctness really gone too far?

Avoid offending others by minding what you say and consider the impact of your words.

Political correctness restricts our freedom of speech and expression.

Managing Editor

Alumni Editor

By Hannah Griffin

The definition of political correctness is, according to Merriam-Webster, “agreeing with the idea that people should be careful to not use language or behave in a way that could offend a particular group of people.” While some people may argue political correctness has gone too far, the main goal of the concept outweighs the negative effects that may come of it.

“It’s about practicing tolerance,” Ta-Nehisi Coates wrote in his article “The Importance of Being Politically Correct,” published on TheAtlantic. com. “It’s about attempting to understand the people who are radically different than you, and saying to them you want their voice in the process…

The people you’re trying to understand… call you racist, homophobe, bigot, sexist etc, but they ultimately respect you for trying.”

This is key to understanding political correctness, and typically it is those who consider themselves liberal that grasp it.

“The conservative movement has never gotten ‘tolerance.’ They think tolerance is something you do as a favor for someone else, that it’s a slogan…

Liberal tolerance bets on the future,” Coates said.

Political correctness does not have to be a war between conservatives and liberals, though. If everyone simply respects one another and makes their best effort to do so, we would live in a happier world where, ideally, everyone feels accepted.

This change, of course, cannot be made overnight. However, with movements such as political correctness, we are one step closer.

Those who believe political correctness has “gone too far” will say society is being told what to do in a 1984-esque fashion. They will say people have lost their jobs, reputations, and credibility for saying the wrong thing at the wrong time in front of the wrong people. They think it is unfair; they see it as people getting butt-hurt and do not take it seriously, but it is a very serious topic.

Instead of placing the blame on the people they offended, they should be taking responsibility for their own actions. The thought process should not be, “I wouldn’t have gotten fired if you hadn’t been so sensitive.” It should be, “I wouldn’t have gotten fired if I had simply thought before I spoke.”

Depending on your perspective, some call it political correctness.

However, to those it affects, it is being treated with the respect every human being deserves.

Some people see political correctness as a burden, that they shouldn’t have to think so much about what they say. However, if you are a respectful person, you will not have to think very hard at all. It is just common sense.

One complaint people have had recently stems from the transgender community. Some people say the English language should be rid of pronouns (“she,” “her,” “him,” “he”) in order to abolish gender-specificness that can be the cause of awkward situations for transgender people.

While this is extreme, there are simple things people can do to be more respectful toward this group of people. By asking a person which pronoun they prefer to be called, you will avoid hurting them and putting your foot in your mouth without having to change the English language.

The hopeful result of political correctness is we will have future generations who will not even have to think about being politically correct, it will just come naturally.

Many positive things have come out of political correctness.

According to, “Is Political Correctness Good for Everyone?” by Paul Richard Kuehn from HubPages.com, one of these is “Equal Employment Opportunity with no Discrimination.” This means, “all employers must show equal opportunity in hiring to all genders, races, ethnic groups, sexual orientations, and disabled people.”

Also, with political correctness, “more people win than lose” meaning more people benefit from political correctness than do not, according to Kuehn.

Although “retarded” has been deemed politically incorrect when referring to someone with a mental disability, many people still use it without realizing the damage they are causing not only to those who have a disability and their family members but to everyone.

Children are a product of their environment. If they grow up hearing words such as “retard” being used, they too will use that word because they do not realize there is anything wrong with it.

Other kids will learn from that kid, and the cycle continues.

Until people learn to not say or do things that offend a person on their own, we need political correctness.

Buccaneer Bulletin

By Amber Canbek

Political correctness is the altering of forms of expression due to the fear of offending a certain group of people. Today, political correctness is taken to extremes.

For example, classical books are altered today by the masses due to something as simple as a derogatory word. To Kill A Mockingbird by Harper Lee was taken out of multiple schools for the use of the word nigger and situations of discrimination.

Although the word is now considered offensive, the book itself was written in a different time and should not be changed for something that was considered normal at the time it was written.

Classical children’s tales have also been changed, such as Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland which was banned for referencing beheadings and child abuse. Hansel and Gretel was altered drastically. Originally, Hansel and Gretel were thrown out of the house and left for dead by their stepmother due to the children eating too much, but of course today, the original story is deemed too harsh for children. Little Red Riding Hood was altered so that Red Riding Hood was not made to eat the flesh of her grandmother. Although the situations in the stories are morbid, books that were written in the past should not be meddled with to suit the so-called “needs” of today.

Words that discriminate against one’s sexuality, race, religion, mental or physical health hurt; there is no doubt about that. They can make one feel secluded and horrible about themselves and they are utterly degrading, but there are those who do not understand that another group of names can be equally destructive.

When one is called, racist, sexist, anti-Semetic, or homophobic, it can ruin a person’s career, reputation, and, sometimes, their life. On news stations, some reporters launch these names at high standing figures without a second thought about the word’s extremity. Words are taken out of context frequently and perhaps that makes a person a jerk, but racist? Sexist?

Although the idea of political correctness was intended for good and to encourage tolerance of diversity, the topic of diversity is now discussed in a hushhush tone. People fear diversity instead of discussing it. In fear of being called names such as “racist” and “homophobic,” many people choose to not talk about diversity at all.

If we cannot ask questions out of curiosity or interest due to fear of insulting someone else, how can we possibly stop things such as racism and sexism?

Today we live in a world where a school in New York City has to erase the use of the word “dinosaur” for fear of hurting the feelings of someone who does not believe in evolution. We live in a world where college toga parties are condemned due to worry about offending a Greek student. We live in a world where a word in a children’s book has to be changed just to appease those who do not accept it.

Our world today has become too constricted and uptight for anyone to really feel comfortable.

Political correctness ruins the principal of what this nation was founded upon: freedom. Political correctness spills into the crevices and tiny details of American society. Those who want to point out the “incorrectness” are dubbed PC Police.

Their intentions are good, but they clamp down on our liberties as human beings and restrict freedom of speech and expression.

Normal situations in American society are now criticized. Some school districts ban Halloween for the celebration being “explicitly” religious. The term “brownbag lunch” cannot be documented in school papers in a Seattle school district as it is pointed out as racist and discriminatory. Easter eggs, in some schools around the country, are now called spring eggs and there’s a movement to change snowman to snowperson based on the PC police calling out the commonly used term as sexist.

The list goes on and on.

The PC police like to point out figureheads and others and shame them for the smallest comment, but they rarely bother to search for the underlying reason behind the “incorrect” statement. How can those who take away the most obvious form of freedom say their cause is progress?

Those who condemn others based on “incorrectness” are only attempting to put out fire with gasoline. As harsh as it is, we have to grow up and not point fingers whenever our feelings are hurt in the smallest and most ludicrous way. It is a reasonable price we have to pay when it comes to our freedom of speech. There are larger problems in the world today than worrying about what snowmen are called.

The impact of practicing political correctness is far worse than any good intentions of those who try to enforce it.

Editor’s note: “Point/Counter-Point” is a regular feature of The Buccaneer Bulletin to debate issues here at OHS. If you have any issues or concerns that you would like to see discussed here, contact Rachael Purtell at rpurtell@oswego.org.

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March 2015

Easier Said Than

8

Once again, the art department at Oswego High School excelled in state-level competition.

Since 1923, the Central New York Scholastic Art Competition has aimed to identify students with exceptional artistic and literary talent.

The Alliance for Young Artists organization, received and judged school districts in the central New York were presented at Onondaga Community

Fea

Drawn

Michael Cali and Kelsey Wilder each received a Gold Key Award. Wilder’s piece “Kiwi Spirit” was honored in the category of ceramics and glass and Cali’s piece “Spider and Insect Autons” earned gold for sculpture.

This year and Writers, a nonprofit over 4,000 entries from nearly 100 area. Awards for the best submissions College in mid-January.

The Buccaneers swabbed the deck with the competition and took home over 40 awards.

“I am extremely proud of our very talented Oswego High School artists,” said art teacher Mrs. Melissa Martin. “Our students proved once again that they can compete with the very best!”

This month, we, at The Buccaneer Bulletin, are featuring the artists who were honored with Gold Key Awards (first place) and those that received either Silver Key Awards (second place) or Honorable Mentions for their portfolios. A portfolio is a collection of several pieces by a single artist created to exhibit his or her skills.

In addition to the ten artists featured here, many more students took home one or more individual Silver Key Awards or Honorable Mentions.

In the category of drawing and illustration, Meghan Anderson took home two Silver Keys for her pieces “Blue” and “The World Outside the Window.” Another Silver Key Award in this category was Katie Bradshaw for her piece “Crazy Candy Lady” and another went to Sydney Copeland for “Woodland Princess.”

Matthew Olszewski and Alexander Bush took home Silver Key Awards for their pieces “Horse Hair Set” and “Industrious Teapot” respectively.

In the category of design, Silver Key Awards were presented to Lauren Boshart for “Blue Winter Deer,” Dain Jerred for “Mechanical Grasshopper,” and Brenna Sherman for “Elephant.”

Alexander Bush also received a Silver Key Award in the category of sculpture for his piece “Spirit Eagle.”

Honorable Mentions were awarded in the category of design to Brianna Hill for “Boil” and “Seahorses” and to Kate O’Gorman for “Acid Cat.” Madison Rahn also received an Honorable Mention for “Teapot” in the category of ceramics and glass.

Christian Jasewicz received two awards in the category of design. He received a Gold Key Award for “Peacock” and an Honorable Mention for “Descend.”

Reilly Patrick’s awards both came from the category of drawing and illustration. She won a Gold Key Award for “Adagio” and a Silver Key Award for “Child’s Play.”

PHOTOS COURTESY OF MRS. MARTIN AND MRS. PETERSON PHOTO ILLUSTRATIONS AND PAGE LAYOUT BY RACHAEL PURTELL

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Kayla Volkomer won a Gold Key Award in the category of design for “Don’t Lose Yourself in Your Fear” and a Silver Key in the category of painting for “Reflections.” She also received a Silver Key Award for her portfolio consisting of a variety of mediums.

Shea Hewitt earned an Honorable Mention for her design portfolio. Hewitt’s pieces can be found hanging on the walls of OHS as she has created posters for district events.

Allie Henderson earned six awards this year. She was honored with two Silver Key Awards, two individual Honorable Mentions, and an Honorable Mention for her two portfolios. She submitted both a design portfolio and a photography portfolio. Henderson’s Silver Key Awards were in the categories of design and photography for her pieces “Harry Potter Playing Cards” and “Carousel” respectively. Her individual Honorable Mentions for her piece “Release” in the category of design and her piece “Roses” in the category of drawing and illustration.

Michael Edwards received a Silver Key Award for his design portfolio. “Self Portrait,” which was part of Edward’s portfolio, won an individual Silver Key Award.

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Makayla Carson received an Honorable Mention for her portfolio as well as Honorable Mentions in design and drawing and illustration for her pieces “Brush” and “Mask.”

Brenna Riley took home the most awards this year including four Gold Key Awards, two individual Silver Key Awards, and a Silver Key Award for her portfolio. Her pieces receiving Gold Key Awards include “Snaggletooth,” “Gypsy,” and “Weightless” in the category of drawing and illustration and “Tangle” in the category of design. Individual Silver Key Awards were earned in the categories of drawing and illustration and Painting for her pieces “Face of Death” and “Courtly Check” respectively.

May 2015

10

Artist of the Month

Student makes leap from basement to the spotlight

By Courtney Osmun Business Manager

Oswego High School senior Kiernan Proud brought new talent to the OHS Music Department and stage.

Proud started playing guitar at age ten and has been doing so for almost eight years. However, he only recently started playing guitar in front of anyone.

“I didn’t really start playing in front of anyone until last year when my friend got me to join jazz band.

I’ve been a lot more comfortable playing in front of other people since then, especially soloing and more complicated stuff,” said Proud.

Proud decided to pursue guitar after listening to others play.

He stated, “I remember I was at a family party and there were three people that had a guitar jam session, and I decided I wanted to play right there. I always wanted to play, but that just made me want to even more.”

Proud began like most guitarists in Oswego and took guitar lessons from Jim Eckert at A&J Music for three years learning the basics of guitar and found it very helpful. Since then, Proud began teaching himself and grew to love the instrument.

“I just love all the things you can do with the guitar. Improvising is especially fun, since I can do whatever I want as long as I think it sounds good. Just everything about playing is interesting, especially putting together chords and trying out new melodies.

There’s an infinite amount of things to play,” said Proud.

But Proud is not the only one in his family with musical talent. Proud’s brother plays the drums and they have been jamming together for years.

“I was around 13 and he was around nine or ten and we’d play songs together all the time. He was always pretty good for being so young,” stated Proud.

Proud branched out just recently to playing in front of crowds and hopes to continue doing so in the future.

“My brother and I usually just jam in the basement. When he’s older I think it would be cool to play somewhere,” said Proud.

With the skills and techniques Proud has acquired over the years, jazz and rock are his favorite styles to play.

Proud said, “I like jazz and rock.

They both share different elements with each other, so it helps.”

Like all great musicians, Proud shows great admiration for and aspires to be like one of his favorite musicians.

“One of my favorite guitarists was Les Paul. He literally invented the electric guitar and could play just about anything in any style of music.

He was so versatile and could play with just about anybody. That’s always been my goal, to just be able to play with any musician right away.”

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Proud shows great pride and appreciation in his instrument. As he dedicates hours of practice and study working towards perfecting the instrument that plays a fundamental role in his life.

He stated, “I think the amount of time I’ve spent studying how, and what to play helped me improve my playing a lot. Joining jazz band was great too because it made me work even harder. It was really the first time I had a chance to play with other

song writing with the guitar. I think it would be cool to play a song that I wrote with a band, but I’ve always found writing riffs difficult,” said Proud.

Years of practice brings moments of honor. Proud found being recognized at the Oneida Jazz Festival last year to be one of his proudest moments.

“I got a certificate and everything.

It was one of the first times I played in front of anyone in general, which

PHOTO BY COURTNEY OSMUN

Pictured above, senior Kiernan Proud works hard at mastering difficult chords and riffs on his own time in order to perfect the skills he needs for OHS Jazz Band.

people and a lot of the things I needed to play were really difficult so I had to spend even more time studying. It was difficult at first, but I think I’ve gotten the hang of it. It really allowed me to play in a way I never thought I could.”

Although Proud has spent hundreds of hours practicing guitar, there are areas in which he hopes to improve.

“I’d like to be able to improve on

made me even more proud,” he said.

After eight years of playing, Proud only began playing in front of anyone this past year. What finally made him stand in the spotlight?

Proud said, “My family always sent videos of me playing to their friends and family. They always told me I should go play for people somewhere. When my friend recommended I join jazz

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band I figured it would be a perfect opportunity for me to do that, and it was.”

After playing guitar for the Jazz A band for the past year, Proud is thrilled to take it to the next level and perform his talents for the school at the Junior Variety Show this April. He will be performing a solo act playing an instrumental piece and will be playing in a band with his friends.

“I’ve wanted to do it for a while and I’m glad to get to do it this year,” Proud stated.

Since it is Proud’s senior year, the jazz band will be reluctant to find a replacement for the jazz guitarist this upcoming fall. However, it seems the guitarist has a bright future awaiting him.

Proud said, “I plan on going to college for business but join a lot of different clubs for music. I’ll definitely keep playing guitar every day.”

Proud is unsure of the exact school he will be attending in the fall but plans to attend a school where he can pursue all of his interests.

“I’m looking at a few schools in New York City. I think it would be cool to go to the city during college to meet some people in business and music, and a lot of the schools I’m looking at would allow that,” he stated.

Proud is a member of the rhythm section in the jazz band. The section is made up of a piano, bass, drum set and guitar.

Stephen Defren, director of the OHS Jazz Band stated, “The rhythm section is the foundation of the group and establishes the pulse and style of the music we play. Kiernan has become a valuable member of the group. In addition to being a great member of his section, Kiernan has chosen to play many solos with the group.

He is a very talented player, and has contributed a lot to our band. It also helps that he is a nice guy with a good sense of humor.”

On top of playing a key role in the OHS Jazz Band, Proud is the treasurer of the Interact Club where he reaches out to the local community. Proud is also a great student academically, taking many honors and AP classes.

As Proud bids goodbye to his years at OHS, he encourages students to join the school’s music program, which has impacted him as a musician significantly.

“I know it made me a much better musician. Everyone involved with the program, especially the teachers, are so helpful. I have nothing but positive things to say about the music program,” he said.

OHS is sad to watch another talented musician go but has been honored to have played such a meaningful role in Proud’s life.

March 2015

Walking the Plank

11

Halters and horses before homework for Haley

By Mariya Hirna Layout Editor

Buccaneer Bulletin: What is your full name?

Haley Boardway: Haley Kristine Boardway.

BB: How old are you?

HB: I will be 16 on March 2.

BB: What grade are you in?

HB: Tenth.

BB: Do you participate in any clubs?

HB: I am in chorus and I am in multiple national horse clubs and teams.

BB: What is your favorite food?

HB: Chicken and broccoli alfredo.

BB: What is your favorite restaurant?

HB: Panera Bread.

BB: Where would you like to travel?

HB: I would probably go to Florida or Kentucky for horse shows.

BB: If you could pick any place to live, where would it be and why?

HB: Dallas, Texas. Because of horses. I like the state and climate a lot also.

BB: Would you ever be an exchange student?

HB: No, I think it is really hard. I am too much of a wimp to do it and I don’t know any other languages and I am a picky eater, so I would be worried!

BB: What is your favorite movie and TV show?

HB: Battleship and Teen Wolf.

BB: What is your favorite color?

HB: Green.

BB: What is your favorite animal other than horses?

HB: Turtles.

BB: What inspires you?

HB: Horses definitely are one. I do a lot of rehabilitation, rezoning, and retraining. I worked with thoroughbreds that need retraining because they had just gotten done at the track. So, I retrain off the track thoroughbreds for rehoming with my trainer and he now does a lot of sale horses and I ride and show those horses for sale purposes.

BB: What is your biggest accomplishment?

HB: Horseback riding. I competed at a Lake Placid Olympic arena when I was 8 years old and I have been to HITS Saugerties to compete before. They are both international horse shows and have series. The Olympian riders also ride here and compete. They are very large scale.

BB: What was your hardest decision?

HB: To sell my horse. He had some old injuries that were keeping me from moving forward in my riding career. He became too expensive with vet bills and we actually sold him to a veterinarian.

BB: How many horses have you owned?

HB: I have only owned one. I have leased two and ridden many others!

BB: What is your favorite holiday?

HB: Halloween. I have always liked it. When I was little I liked dressing up and it is fun to go out with friends.

BB: What is your favorite season?

HB: My sports are all summer sports, I hate snow and cold, so summer.

BB: If you could have one superpower, what would it be?

HB: I would be invisible. It would be cool and I could disappear when I wanted to.

BB: What is your favorite thing about high school?

HB: I hate school, but I like learning.

BB: Why do you hate it?

HB: I do not like the way it is set up.

BB: Would you like to try any extreme sports?

HB: Yes, motocross.

BB: What is your biggest fear?

HB: Dying of a disease.

BB: If you could pick only one thing to eat during the month, what would it be?

HB: Strawberries.

BB: Do you play any musical instruments?

HB: No, I am in chorus.

BB: If you would have to lose one of your senses, what would you choose?

HB: Taste is probably the least important sense. I love music and sports, so I need hearing and sight.

BB: Do you consider yourself extrovert or introvert?

HB: Extrovert. I think I am an outgoing and pretty sociable person.

BB: Which style of clothes do you prefer?

HB: Chic or sporty.

BB: Do you prefer long or short dresses?

HB: Short.

BB: Do you have any siblings?

HB: I have three older sisters.

BB: How do you get along with them?

HB: I have a good relationship with them. They are older and moved out now, though.

BB: Who is the most important person in your life?

HB: My grandfather. He is definitely my go to person and favorite person in my family. He is the reason I am the person I am today.

BB: What is something most people don’t know about you?

HB: My grandparents raised me more than my actual parents.

BB: If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?

HB: My stubbornness. I think it keeps me from moving forward.

Editor’s note: “Walking the Plank” is a regular questionand-answer feauture of the Buccaneer Bulletin. If you know a student or staff member who you would like to see walk the plank, contact Rachael Purtell at rpurtell@oswego.org. This edition of “Walking the Plank” was written by Mariya Hirna.

BB: If you could change one thing about high school, what would it be?

HB: The length and times of it. School should begin at 9:00 a.m. and end at 3:00 p.m.

BB: What is your favorite subject?

HB: Science and Global Studies.

BB: Who is your favorite teacher?

HB: Ms. Jackson.

BB: What is your dream job?

HB: I would love to ride for the USA horseback riding team.

BB: And what was your dream job when you were six?

HB: To be an Olympian equestrian (horseback rider).

PHOTOS COURTESY OF HALEY BOARDWAY PHOTO ILLUSTRATIONS BY RACHAEL PURTELL

BB: What was your best holiday present?

HB: I got my first horse when I was ten.

Buccaneer Bulletin

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March 2015

12

Columns

Protests and civil unrest become a way of life in Ukraine I was living the life of a typical high school student before Ukraine faced events that changed everything, including me.

The revolution was moving very quickly and the number of people protesting in Maidan had increased from hundreds to thousands in just a few days. Nobody really knew what to expect each day, but everybody was waiting for changes that were inevitable.

Young people supported the idea of joining the European Union (EU) and the development of our country.

We were the bulk of the protesters.

High school and college students formed columns and headed to the main square of my city, Lviv.

My school was no exception. My best friend and I organized a column that included students from my school and five schools nearby. Although our schools were further away from the city center, we walked in a column, which included nearly 1500 students.

We held banners that supported EU, flags and we sang the national anthem. In these moments, surrounded by people I had never seen before, we seemed very close. I knew we all had the same goal and I knew we were going to reach it.

Suddenly, the hope of change for a lot of Ukrainians, including me, disappeared as our president refused to sign the agreement, people peacefully protesting were beaten while trying not only to show their position but to defend citizens’ rights for free speech.

They were still protesting the idea of Ukraine as a republic and to change the government to one that would represent our interests.

Sometimes I was scared to protest as I saw people beaten in the capital.

Sometimes I felt unsafe, but then I looked around, saw other people’s faces, hope in their eyes, and how confident they were. I changed. I suddenly realized what I was doing and why; no one else could scare me.

I also had a feeling that I was powerless in this situation, but I was not going to give up. Maidan was not going to give up, either. I tried to do everything I could, so I started collecting money in my city to help protesters in the capital. It was winter and cold outside. People needed food, blankets, and things to protect themselves from special police who were trying to make them stop protesting in any way possible.

Later, peaceful protests turned into war between Russian and part of Ukrainian governments working together and Ukrainians fighting for democracy; people started dying.

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When I came back to Maidan I saw pictures of those young heroes. I saw their mothers all in black, crying hard, I saw thousands of candles and flowers. I felt that pain. I knew that they died for their country, for their sisters and brothers and that was supposed to make their death easier to accept, but why should have they died at all?

Then things started to change.

It seemed to become better, but in a few days it was hopeless. We were on a rollercoaster of changes moving from top to bottom; we were riding it without any idea where it would end.

After a few months we reached our destination – the government was overthrown, but the price of hundreds of people’s lives was way too big.

However, I believe that if we gave up or stopped protesting, Ukraine would already be under Russian rule as the Crimean Peninsula is now.

We showed our opinion and that there were a huge number of Ukrainians ready to fight for independence.

It doesn’t matter how your life changes, it doesn’t matter that a few years ago you’d never have thought about things that are part of your life, as time passes by you just get used to it. I got used to checking the news every day. I eventually got used to the fact that every day there were people dying for Ukraine. I was sad to find out about each new victim, but I wasn’t crying like before. I couldn’t cry any more. It wouldn’t help anybody. I realized I have to live my life, so my goal became to do something that could help my country.

One shiny summer day I was sitting on the bench waiting for my friends. I was feeling like a typical happy teenager enjoying the holidays.

Suddenly, public transportation was stopped, police cars came first and they were followed by buses with dead bodies of young warriors who were fighting against terrorists. I will never forget that day. These people passed by me in buses with broken windows with no living passengers, coming back to their families to say their last goodbye.

That was not the typical summer of a happy teenager and was an experience not easy for some adults to deal with.

I was always waiting for something good; I was looking for a little hope anywhere, but it didn’t come. I still live without knowing what to expect each day. I check the news almost every day and I still believe that everything will end quickly and I will live in Ukraine and be proud of it.

March 2015

Columns

13

Media don’t want none unless it’s got buns, hun

Do boys really like a little more booty to hold at night? In today’s age, it’s easy to be influenced by an overbearing pop culture. Especially if you are a young women.

We’re all taught from a young age the importance of beauty. What girl doesn’t want a sexy, strapping man to sweep them off their feet? How could they possibly attract a man of this stature without great looks themselves?

Young girls fall into this downward spiral of self hatred, striving for the perfect body.

Where did this definition of perfect come from? Why must we all strive for a size two waistline? Yet, women blessed with this waistline are ashamed of their lack of curves.

It seems as if no one wins in this situation.

Body shaming is an ever growing problem among women in the United States. Body shaming is the criticism of your own or another’s physical appearance. Wherever you go, someone is campaigning for a difference in your appearance.

Magazines constantly advertise ways to lose weight and hide imperfections, influencing young women to believe their appearance needs to be changed to match the beautiful women photographed on the front cover.

According to Huffington Post, 50 percent of commercials directed towards women mention physical attractiveness. The average adolescent views over 5,000 advertisements a year that mention attractiveness. Girls from fifth to twelfth grade were surveyed and the results claimed that 47 percent said they wanted to lose weight due to the influence of magazine pictures. 69 percent said that magazine pictures influenced their idea of what a “perfect body” should look like. Imagine how this manipulates a young mind.

According to a recent report in 2012 from Reflections of Body Image, between one third and one half of young girls are in fear of becoming fat and participate in dieting or binge eating.

Girls five years of age are worried about their appearance and their size. One in four seven-year old girls have tried to

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lose weight at some point in their young lives.

These statistics grow even more terrifying when 42 percent of first to third grade girls want to be thinner and 81 percent of ten-year-olds are afraid of being fat! Children at this age should be worrying about cooties and spelling tests, not how their bodies fare against models. The minds of our youth are being destroyed because of society’s high expectations of beauty.

We all have heard the common chatter of women and their ever changing opinions of their bodies.

“OMG, I need to lose like 20 pounds.”

“Why can’t I have boobs?”

These women aren’t just searching for attention and encouragement from friends, although there are always exceptions, they honestly feel this way.

And who can blame them?

They’ve been raised in a culture where this is a social norm.

Does a woman who is perfectly content with her body even exist? If she does, God bless her because this is growing more uncommon every day.

Women experience an average of 13 negative thoughts about their body each day, while 97 percent of women admit to having at least one “I hate my body” moment each day according to Huffington Post.

Fat shaming is the most common act of body shaming, and it isn’t a secret.

How often are women told they aren’t small enough? We are constantly forced to conform to the template of the size two model. Sadly, many women do conform and not in a healthy way.

Up to 24 million people suffer from an eating disorder (anorexia, bulimia, or binge eating disorder) in the U.S. alone.

95 percent of those who have eating disorders are between the ages 12 and 25. Is it a strange coincidence that the

age group most impacted by media has the greatest number of eating disorders?

OHS freshman Kaileigh Roy stated, “Girls think they have to be a size 0 to be pretty. Girls are always on their phones, laptops, and tablets and they can see it everywhere. On Tumblr I see a lot of girls starving themselves or purging and other unhealthy things to be pretty.”

A few weeks ago, Victoria’s Secret launched the Perfect Body campaign promoting its new bra line featuring their infamous, flawlessly skinny models.

This campaign received a great deal of negative backlash from young women.

Those enraged took to Twitter bashing the new bra advertisement.

Many criticized the campaign saying it was a very harmful message to young women. Others pleaded Victoria Secret to use social media to send a message of body equality instead of shattering people’s confidence in their bodies. Although, it does seem the notoriously skinny models may soon become a thing of the past.

Calvin Klein recently launched the Perfectly Fit line featuring women of various sizes. One of the models featured in this line was Myla Dalbesio who has struggled with her body image. Dalbesio, size ten, is known in the model world as an “inbetweenie,” meaning she is too large to be a regular model and too small to be plus size. This classification proved to be very harmful in Dalbesio’s life.

Dalbesio was constantly told to lose weight. As a young woman in the modeling industry, Dalbesio wanted to have the body scouts were looking for. This led to dark days for her. She told Fashionista in 2012, “I tried for a long time to make myself [lose weight]. I tried throwing up after I ate and that’s awful. That is painful - I would never wish for anyone to do that ever.” She spent days at the gym, weeks eating only calorie-free olives and pickles. She became addicted to Adderall trying to shed the unwanted weight.

After years struggling with addiction and eating disorders, Dalbesio was told about plus size modeling and learned she didn’t need to change her body to fit the size two mold.

“I think that Calvin Klein has done something that’s really groundbreaking, which is they released this campaign with what some would say is a normalsize model, a size 10. And size-10 girls, there’s not a lot of spots for us to fit in in the fashion industry.” Dalbesio told the Today Show.

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Dalbesio received letters and emails from young girls thanking her for being their inspiration, “I just got an email today from a girl saying she’s been struggling with bulimia for six years, and it’s feeling like now she can kick it, which is a crazy thing to hear, and of course it makes me feel amazing. I don’t think that I’m going to solve every girl’s eating disorder, but it’s great to hear that I’m at least giving them some kind of support. It makes me cry.” Dalbesio told The Cut. It seems the world is becoming a bit more accepting of women with a few more inches on their sides. Songs like Meghan Trainer’s “All About That Bass” encourage women to love being a little thicker and that thick women are beautiful the size they are.

Lyrics include, “Every inch of you is perfect from the bottom to the top. Yeah, my momma she told me don’t worry about your size. She says, boys they like a little more booty to hold at night.

You know I won’t be no stick-figure, silicone Barbie doll. So if that’s what you’re into then go ahead and move along,” These lyrics have become controversial.

Although they are encouraging young women to love their bodies what is it saying to women with size two waistlines?

We often forget how skinny women are body shamed too.

We’ve all heard a snide comment to a skinny woman like, “OMG, are you like anorexic?”

“OMG, eat a burger.”

“Get some meat on your bones!”

These words are hurtful too.

In regard to songs like “All About That Bass,” OHS sophomore Lauren Boshart stated, “I feel like skinny girls hear those songs and it makes them think twice about how they look and question if their bodies are actually attractive to men.”

No one should feel uncomfortable in their own skin. We’re given the bodies we are given and we don’t have to change to satisfy the wants of people around us. We’re beautiful.

We’re perfect in the skin we were born in. We shouldn’t let the media obscure our self worth. We are who we are, and we’re perfect that way.

March 2015

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March 2015

Sports

Catching up with the competition consistently challenges coaches

By Chase Pelton

strong coaching they receive motivating them to have better drive.

The goal of any sports team is supposed to be Another reason Culeton says the team was to win, right? Play competitively and come out on lackluster this year is due to problems between top. At the same time, though, what is the point in members of the team and a lack of chemistry. playing if you cannot have fun? At times it is hard to Culeton said “The reason we struggled a lot was find a balance between the two and at Oswego High because of parental involvement as well as players School it seems that having fun has taken over. getting into arguments.”

There are many athletes at OHS who play their This causes many obvious problems inside a sport out of passion while others simply want to team as teamwork is required and when conflict hang out and have fun with friends. While there is arises, teamwork is nearly impossible. no doubt that many athletes at OHS play to win and These factors lead to an overall losing mentality give 110 percent year round, the overall atmosphere according to Culeton who explained that when they of OHS athletics tends to be laid back. went up against other teams, they went in “knowing” This is due to a number of factors. Athletes tend they were going to lose. This lead to a lack of drive to be content being the best in Oswego rather than against the schools they assumed they would lose to. the best in the section or state.

On the other side of the spectrum, Culeton Mr. Frank Bahamonde who is in charge of the also said they went into some games assuming weight room at OHS and helps coach the Oswego they would win and lost because they made that football program stated, “They’re okay with being assumption. a starter in our program as opposed to beating While OHS athletics have been struggling everyone else’s starters.” and becoming a less competitive atmosphere, Bahamonde also talked about the Oswego youth Bahamonde and Brown shared their thoughts on the programs where the most talented thrive which future of OHS athletics. causes many to grow content with their place as Bahamonde, who has also helped coach football the best in Oswego and do not become concerned programs at Baldwinsville, Liverpool and schools in with being better than athletes from other schools.

Florida, explained that every successful program he Bahamonde also has been part of had explained that this “They’re okay with beating a starter a well established mindset leads to a room and in our program as opposed to weight lack of a thorough off season program. beating everyone else’s starters.” Bahamonde talked off season routine as players view their ~Mr. Frank Bahamonde about how when abilities as good first showed Assistant Varsity Football Coach he enough. up at OHS, only a This idea was few people were supported by Mr. Kyle Brown who is an assistant interested in the weight room and that many athletes coach in the SUNY-Oswego baseball program and treated the off season like vacation. coached JV baseball at OHS for several years.

Bahamonde mentioned that during the past few Brown talked about how athletes in Oswego can years, the weight room has become more established have a hard time comparing their skill set to athletes and he is working to instill in everyone who shows in other parts of the state. He believes this is due up with a drive to constantly improve themselves. He to Oswego being a relatively small community and also said that he has seen massive improvements in further away from other schools. the OHS athletic atmosphere.

Brown contrasted this to Syracuse where Brown talked about how even though it is hard students from Cicero-North Syracuse and Liverpool, to compare skill levels, it is important to never let for example, see each other in city leagues and can yourself say, “I’m good enough,” and to continue to compare their abilities to their rivals leading to a push yourself to new heights. more competitive atmosphere where everyone seeks Brown said, “Working hard all year to become a to improve. better athlete is what we need to work at right now.”

This is in opposition to the Oswego athletic He discussed the expression there is no off community where Brown said athletes get season and how the athletes at OHS should not complacent and do not work towards the big picture just work hard during their sports season but play as some have a hard time seeing where they are in multiple sports and develop their athleticism during comparison to the most advanced in other schools. breaks between seasons.

The co-captain of the OHS varsity girls soccer Brown also said that he believes with the team, Nora Culeton, talked about the overall increasing popularity of travel leagues, new athletes motivation of her team, which was lackluster at best. will be able to compare themselves better with Culeton explained how in the past the girls soccer athletes from other areas. This could then lead team was fairly good and posted good records, but to players setting a bar higher for themselves as in recent years the team’s performance has gone they can better understand how they match up to downhill. other players. A more intense and focused athletic Culeton said she believes one of the reasons for atmosphere would follow as players learn to strive this is the coach of the team. Culeton explained that for their best performance in the state or section, not the coach failed to motivate the team properly and just Oswego. help keep them on task. Despite this, she said the However the move of OHS to a new athletic other captain and herself tried to keep up the team’s class with smaller schools has allowed student drive but it was hard to do without the backing of a athletes to become more competitive and the sports strong coach. programs to be more successful. That being said, the Culeton also made her point by pointing to the athletic atmosphere at OHS still has a long way to go varsity softball team at OHS that she plays for by before the competitive drive reaches that of the most saying that a lot of the team’s success is due to the successful teams in the state.

Sports Editor

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Buc Sports Flashback 1 year ago… *Mrs. Ellen Dillon was recognized for her contributions as a mother, teacher, coach, and athlete. *She has participated as an athlete in soccer, basketball, track and field, and lacrosse and has coached field hockey, volleyball, basketball, and lacrosse. *Mrs. Dillon has been a physical education teacher for approximately 30 years.

5 years ago… *David Sills committed to play at the University of South Carolina in the seventh grade and began attending in 2010. *Girls’ varsity hockey player Tessa Opet earned the title of co-captain with Kaitlin Friel and Karissa Favata.

10 years ago… *Wrestler Mike Howard placed sixth in sectional competition.

15 years ago… *The girls’ junior varsity basketball team went undefeated with a record of 20-0. *The varsity team qualified for sectionals for the first time since the 1970s.

20 years ago… *The first girls’ varsity lacrosse team at OHS was created under the advisory of first year coach Mr. Mark Fierro.

25 years ago… *The girls’ varsity volleyball coach, Helen Kessler, retired with 200 victories. *In her final season coaching, the team brought her to her first Section III championship and regional playoffs. *The team’s overall record for the season was 27-3.

E d i t o r ’s N o t e : B u c S p o r t s Flashback is a monthly feature of the Buccaneer Bulletin. If you have any events that you would like to see included in future Buc Sports Flashbacks please contact Rachael Purtell at rpurtell@oswego.org. This month’s Buc Sports Flashback was compiled by Amber Canbek.

March 2015

Buccaneer Bulletin Sports Oswego High School’s Student Voice

Volume 3 Number 5

March 2015

ATHLETES OF THE MONTH JORDAN PERCHWAY KELSEY WILDER

By Olivia DeLorenzo Art Director

Senior varsity wrestling captain Jordan Perchway began wrestling when he was in the seventh grade at the encouragement of his uncle, a former varsity wrestler himself. He began on the middle school team with virtually no experience but learned quickly and eventually worked hard enough to make his way to the varsity team in tenth grade.

“It’s kind of a family thing.” Perchway said. “And once my uncle encouraged me to start, I just got hooked.”

Perchway has dabbled in both football and track and field in the past, all of which have provided him with important skills that have come in handy over the course of his wrestling career. Perchway claims that he enjoys wrestling the most of any sport he has participated in due to his continued success and the self-accountability that wrestling encourages.

“I just love not having to rely on a team, I do it all myself,” Perchway said.

He began this year’s season with a very clear goal to place at sectionals. Not only has the senior achieved this, but he has surpassed it. Perchway came in third place for his 160 pound weight class in both the Class A Tournament as well as the Section III Tournament. Perchway is very proud of his achievements this year and attributes his incredible success to his outstanding coach, middle school teacher Kurt D’Angelo.

“He’s strict in a funny way,” Perchway said. “He wants us to do our best, but he isn’t ever too hard on us, either. He’s a good guy.”

As a captain,with fellow senior Austin Coleman, Perchway strives to be a good role model and set an example for the other members of the team. Being named captain was another goal of his, which he fulfilled a year ahead of schedule after becoming captain as a junior and carrying the title to his senior year. There was always a sense of friendly competition between the captains which helped both of them improve.

Coleman said, “We worked really well together, made each other better every day. We had some great times and some great matches.”

Perchway’s positive attitude and motivation are assets that aid not only in wrestling but with his academic progress as well. Despite his commitment to wrestling, Perchway manages to maintain good grades and always makes an effort to find time for homework and studying in his busy schedule.

D’Angelo said, “His spirited attitude always kept everyone on their toes, he wears his heart on his sleeve, which gets everyone around him emotionally involved.”

Perchway’s teammates reiterated these sentiments, praising his involvement with and total dedication to the team.

Perchway particularly enjoys volunteering his time helping others by assisting at the events of the pee wee and modified wrestling teams whenever he is needed. He also competes in motocross outside of school, although he prefers wrestling.

This has been Perchway’s best season in his six years of wrestling with an impressive total of six wins and just three losses despite the wrestling team’s unfortunate eight loss, zero win season.

D’Angelo stated, “Jordan’s matches are always very exciting to watch, because you never knew what he was going to do.”

Perchway’s inspiration and motivation for wrestling come from a deep respect for his uncle and his constant encouragement and support.

Perchway said, “If it weren’t for him, I wouldn’t be where I am.”

Perchway plans to attend college at Morrisville and continue wrestling if he can, however, he is still unsure as to what his future holds in the work world.

By Lisa Kanbur Webmaster

Sophomore Kelsey Wilder has been playing hockey since she was four years old. Now, she is a member of the girls’ varsity ice hockey team coached

by Mr. Dan Bartlett. Wilder has been the team’s starting goalie for the past two years. Her hard work and dedication are great examples of why she is a commendable Athlete of the Month.

Wilder said her brother, Collin, was the one who made her want to play hockey in the first place.

“He inspires me the most. He has always been there to guide me and always looks out for me. Even since I was a kid I’ve looked up to him,” Wilder stated.

Wilder said the proudest moment in her hockey career was when she played in net during overtime in a jam tournament a few years ago. The team ended up winning the game.

“We won because we worked as a team, even though sometimes we didn’t see things eye to eye,” Wilder said.

Senior captain Lainey Celeste agrees that Wilder is a hard worker and said, “As our starting goalie, Kelsey had a lot of responsibility even though she is only a sophomore. She never backed down from this though, and I’ve seen a lot of improvement throughout the season. I know she plays goalie on the Oswego Minor Hockey Midget’s team, and that extra practice has made a difference as well.”

Wilder’s favorite part about the sport is making saves that might seem impossible.

Her favorite memory from this season was the first game of this season when she had a shutout against the other team.

Hockey is not the only activity Wilder participates in, though, as she also enjoys horseback riding at Briarwood Farms. Wilder said her favorite part about horseback riding is connecting with the horse and earning its trust.

Wilder also enjoys her art and English classes taught by Mrs. Peterson and Mrs. Sheffield.

Wilder believes that next season the team can do even better despite having some bad days this season.

“This season I believe we played hard, but sometimes we had our off days. In the end on our last game we gave our all and I’m proud of that no matter what the score,” Wilder said.

Their last game was against Alexandira Bay and while both teams played hard, unfortunately Alex Bay took the win with a score of 4-2.

The team’s overall record was four wins, 11 losses and one tied game. Wilder hopes that the team will do better next year and be much stronger even with the loss six graduating seniors on the team this year.

“The seniors all had leadership and were able to speak up when our team needed someone to follow,” Wilder said.

After high school, Wilder hopes to attend SUNY-Oswego but is not sure what she wants to study. However, she would like to continue playing hockey in a women’s league.

As for next season, Wilder said her goal for the team is to come back stronger than ever.

Celeste said, “Over the course of the season I’ve seen her become more confident in the net, and more assertive when she makes saves, and can only imagine how much more she’ll grow in the coming years.” www.buccaneerbulletin.com