February 2020

LE JOURNAL NOTRE DAME DE SION HIGH SCHOOL | FEBRUARY 2020 | VOLUME 38

3

AUSSIES DISCUSS WATCHING THE FIRES FROM THE UNITED STATES PAGE 9

+

IS BEING TIKTOK FAMOUS WORTH IT PAGE 11

+

FRESHMAN MAKAILA TRAYLOR: DRILL MASTER PAGE 16-17

The Evolution of

KC VIOLENCE

A look at violence within the Kansas City area and the mayor’s federal lawsuit to combat it page 14-15

CONTENTS NEWS

OPINIONS

05

The Kansas City Chiefs won Super Bowl LIV

10

07 08

Andy Sheer’s GoFundMe beats goal

What should be done about the gun violence in Kansas City

11

Tik Tok’s privacy concerns are not worth the content

12

Oscars and other award shows still lack diversity and representation

13

Valentine’s Day should be less about the money and more about the experience

ON THE COVER

14

Australian fires destroy land and wildlife Violence in KC has grown over the past few years, and Mayor Quinton Lucas is suing gun companies over the violence (Photo

by Wikimedia Commons and photo illustration by Maleah Downton)

FEATURES

16

Freshman Makaila Traylor explores her passion for music through drums and dance

18

Junior Rajitha Velakaturi volunteers for a presidential campaign

22

Senior Elyse Makar makes mugs in her free time The Vince Lombardi Trophy was presented to the Kansas City Chiefs after winning Super Bowl LIV Feb. 2 in typical comeback fashion. (Photo by MCT Campus)

SPORTS

20

New head soccer coach is introduced

21

Dive and Swim Team girls qualify for State

24

Mac Miller’s new album impresses

25

New restaurant BIBIBOP wows with buffet style bowls

27

The Bachelor’s 24th season brings back the same unrealistic expectations of love

02 LE JOURNAL

WHAT’S ONLINE

www.lejournallive.com

LEJOURNALLIVE.COM

@lejournalsion

5

22

(Photo by Jenna Barackman) (Photo by Ava Stoltz)

A&E

5 @lejournalsion

(Photo by Maleah Downton)

Diving Into a New Chapter (Photo by Keely Schieffer)

20

25

Catholic Schools Week (Photo by Maggie McKinney)

(Photo by Abbie Sinow)

Kairos is Transformative (Photo submitted by Kamryn Rogers)

Chief’s Tailgate (Photo

by Maleah Downton)

EDITOR’S INK W OUR TIPS

Going into the New Year 1. Set Goals If you really want this year to be “your year,” set goals for what you want to accomplish to change in your life.

2. Meditate Take some much needed time to focus on yourself. Even if you can’t do it every single day, taking time to evaluate yourself and how you are doing is important to keeping a healthy mindset.

3. Clean Your Room Clean your room, car, desk or all three. De-cluttering where you spend the most time will help keep your mind more at ease and keep your parents happy.

4. Less Screen Time Try to spend less time on your phone and laptop, especially before bed, so you can sleep better. Take that time instead to read a book, meditate or spend time with your family.

5. Show Love Remind someone you love them at least once a week whether by telling them or showing them through actions.

elcome to the new year and new decade! A lot has changed since our last issue. For one, journalism students are now being offered ACCP credit through Avila and the Grande Assemblé has made some changes to become a more inclusive ceremony (pg. 4).

For the readers who know Andy Sheer, you know what a big impact he’s had on our community, and we ask that you donate to help his family during this trying time through the GoFundMe account Annie Riggs created.

And check out all the Fun Friday events Stuco is putting on to raise money for him (pg. 7).

In this new decade, we want to recognize all the girls in our school who have been doing amazing things with their time. Dream of being a musician? Learn how freshman Makaila Traylor became a drum major for the Sassy Divas (pg. 16-17). Looking for a new hobby? Check out senior Elyse Makar’s passion of creating monster mugs and other pottery (pg. 2223 ). Want to get more involved in politics? Read how junior Rajitha Velakaturi volunteers for Presidential candidate Pete Buttigieg’s campaign (pg. 18-19 ).

With the start of second semester, senioritis is becoming more and more apparent. However, finish out this year strong and keep on track by keeping up with your schoolwork. But, with schoolwork comes the much needed time for a study break, so check out the nine best things to do in the lull of the winter season (pg. 27).

HOLD THAT POSE Senior Libby Slaymaker sticks an arabesque leg hold as she dances during the dance team halftime performance at the home basketball game versus Barstow High School. The Storm won 61-6. (Photo by Ava Stoltz)

Looking for a new show or movie for the new year? The Bachelor’s 24th season has been filled with ups and downs of love on the big screen (pg. 27). Also “Just Mercy” based off the book by Bryan Stevenson about the corruptness of the justice system, is a hit movie (pg. 25).

TikTok was a staple of 2019, and its popularity doesn’t seem to be going away anytime soon.

Check out two girls who became TikTok famous and their takes on the fame. But also read about the dangers associated with the app due to the privacy concerns (pg. 11).

As Andy Reed would say, “How ‘Bout Those Chiefs!”

Winning their first Super Bowl in 50 years the Chiefs have the youngest quarterback in league history to ever win the MVP and a Super Bowl. Check out the stats and superstitions that helped us win the game (pg. 5).

The Australian fires have captured the attention of the world as support has poured out for the people and animals affected (pg. 8). The Australian exchange students were in Kansas City, watching their home burn from afar, as they lived with their host families (pg. 9).

With the start of second semester and the new decade, let’s make this year the best one yet.

Sincerely, Ava & Kamryn

LE JOURNAL 2019-2020 LE JOURNAL IS THE OFFICIAL STUDENT PUBLICATION OF NOTRE DAME DE SION HIGH SCHOOL - 10631 WORNALL ROAD - KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI 64114

PRINT CO-EDITORS-IN-CHIEF

WEBSITE EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

MISSOURI INTERSCHOLASTIC PRESS ASSOCIATION NATIONAL SCHOLASTIC PRESS ASSOCIATION INTERNATIONAL QUILL AND SCROLL JOURNALISM EDUCATORS OF METROPOLITAN KANSAS CITY MISSOURI JOURNALISM EDUCATION ASSOCIATION

KAMRYN ROGERS AVA STOLTZ

MALEAH DOWNTON

PRINT MANAGING EDITOR

JENNA BARACKMAN

LETTERS TO THE EDITORS LE JOURNAL ACCEPTS LETTERS TO THE EDITORS IN RESPONSE TO PUBLISHED ARTICLES. LETTERS MUST BE SIGNED, VERIFIED AND NO LONGER THAN 200 WORDS. LETTERS MAY BE EDITED FOR LENGTH, GRAMMAR, SPELLING AND CONTENT. LETTERS WILL NOT BE PRINTED IF CONTENT IS OBSCENE, INVASIVE, ENCOURAGING DISRUPTION OF SCHOOL AND/OR IS LIBELOUS.

MAGGIE MCKINNEY

MEMBER

PRINTER NEAL/SETTLE PRINTING GRANDVIEW, MO

KENNEDY WADE

WEBSITE MANAGING EDITOR WEB VIDEO CONTENT EDITOR

NEWS EDITOR

SELA KINCAID

MADELINE HAMMETT

COPY EDITOR

EDITORIALS EDITOR

PAULA SWEENY

A&E EDITOR

PHOTO EDITOR EMMA HUTCHIN

CALLIE CAMERON

REPORTERS

FEATURES EDITOR

KATE CONWAY GRACE HILLS CATHERINE CRAYON KEELY SCHIEFFER ABBIE SINOW KAITLIN LYMAN KATE VANKEIRSBILCK

AVERY BRUNDIGE

SPORTS EDITOR MORGAN HERRIOTT

FEBRUARY 2020

03

ACCP CREDIT FOR JOURNALISM

Starting in the spring semester and going forward, journalism students on Yearbook staff, like senior Sam Shively pictured left, and Newspaper staff are now offered the opportunity to participate in the Advanced College Credit Program from school partner Avila University. “The illustration, graphic design and journalistic techniques showed active skill development,” Avila University Associate Professor Nicole Esquibel said. “We felt that most of the work was a caliber that would allow for college credit.” (Photo by Kaitlin Lyman)

GRANDE ASSEMBLÉ CHANGES

New changes to Grande Assemblé were made after student feedback called for a more inclusive assembly. In order to be more student centered, the class president and vice president now recite the honor roll for their respective grades. Recipients now remain seated. They also introduced new nonacademic awards, like the new service award, Hearts Larger Than the World. “They still want more changes like more student awards,” High School Principal Natalie McDonough said, “whether that be a leadership award, leadership in the classroom or a courage award to recognize the people who might be excelling in other things.” Pictured left is senior Bridget Schumm receiving the Champion of Character Award. (Photo by Ava Stoltz)

Patrick Mahomes’ jersey is the top selling jersey in the country.

ONE

Nine students and two chaperones traveled to Washington D.C. for the March for Life. The march was Jan. 24, just a few days after the 47-year anniversary of the passage of Roe v. Wade. The rally consisted of pro-life speakers, including President Donald Trump. Attendees marched up Capitol Hill in order to voice their protests to the United States Congress. The march was a moving experience for pro-life advocates to come together, according to junior Emily Weians. “It was honestly one of the most moving and life-changing experiences ever,” Weians said. “It was so amazing to see so many people come together and fight for the advocacy in the pro-life movement.” (Photo by Morgan Herriott)

IT

MARCH FOR LIFE

Jennifer Lopez and Shakira performed during Pepsi’s halftime show.

ADMIT ONE

About 35 minutes after takeoff near Calabasas, California, five-time NBA champion and all-star Kobe Bryant, his 13-year-old daughter Gianna Bryant and seven others were killed in a helicopter crash Sunday Jan. 26. On the way to Gianna’s basketball tournament game, the fog and cloud covered hills created limited visibility. The National Transportation Safety Board is conducting an investigation of the crash. (Photo by MCT Campus)

ADM

HELICOPTER CRASH KILLS NINE

CHIEFS SUPER BOWL FACTS

NEWS IN BRIEF

A 30-second Super Bowl Ad slot for Super Bowl LIV averaged around $5.6 million.

Super Bowl LIV ticket prices started at $4,462 per person.

(Illustrations by Catherine Crayon and Avery Brundige)

WORLDWIDE The Coronavirus

The respiratory virus that started in Wuhan, China is now responsible for over 1,000 deaths globally and more than 40,000 are infected with the virus across 25 countries. The first U.S. citizen died while in a Bejing hospital Feb. 6. Everyone on board a Diamond Princess cruise ship off Shanghai is in quarantine after 135 passengers have contracted the virus. (Photo by MCT Campus)

Impeachment Update The U.S. Senate acquitted President Donald J. Trump Feb. 4. The senate voted Jan. 31 to block any new witnesses, clearing the path for the acquittal. The vote to acquit went largely along party lines, with Utah Sen. Mitt Romney breaking ranks and voting to impeach Trump on the first Article of Impeachment concerning abuse of power. (Photo by MCT Campus)

A Royal Brexit Prince Harry and wife Meghan Markle announced their departure from Royal life Jan. 18. The couple plans to live in Canada and raise their family away from England and where Markle filmed the television show “Suits.” (Photo by MCT Campus)

UPCOMING AND LOCAL FEB. 14

BLOOD DRIVE (Photo by Cecilia Mohácsi, junior Emma Grojean pictured)

04 LE JOURNAL

FEB. 20

STUCO CLASS OFFICER SPEECHES (Photo by Ava Stoltz, pictured are freshmen Adaline Huhmann and Sophie Gromosky )

MARCH 28

PROM AT THE PRARIEFIRE MUSUEM (Photo

by Avery Brundige, senior Avery Jones pictured)

NEWS

THAT’S MA’HOMIE Quarterback Patrick Mahomes flexes after the Chiefs’ first touchdown in Super Bowl LIV. (Photo from MCT Campus)

Chiefs outside linebacker Demone Harris makes snow angels in the confetti (Photo from MCT Campus)

After being down early in the 3rd quarter, Patrick Mahomes led the Kansas City Chiefs to a comeback win in Super Bowl LIV. STORY AND DESIGN BY PRINT CO-EDITORIN-CHIEF KAMRYN ROGERS AND REPORTER KAITLIN LYMAN

A half a century after winning their first Super Bowl, the Kansas City Chiefs are once again

Super Bowl champions after defeating the San Francisco 49ers at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami, Florida Feb. 2.

Kansas City overcame a 10-point deficit to beat the 49ers 31-20, making the Chiefs the first team in NFL history to win three games after trailing by 10 or more points in a single postseason.

They were led by quarterback Patrick Mahomes who was not only last year’s league MVP, but is now the youngest quarterback to win

Super Bowl MVP at 24 years old. This victory was Head Coach Andy Reid’s 222nd win, extending his record of most wins by a head coach and snagging his first ever Super Bowl win.

1Q

2Q

3Q

4Q

F

49ers

3

7

10

0

20

Chiefs

7

3

0

21

31

Super Bowl Attendees

Junior Laila Foy (photo submitted

by Laila Foy)

Junior Mikayla Gunther (photo submitted by Mikayla Gunther)

Head Basketball Coach Chad Lynn (Photo submitted by Chad Lynn)

Junior Callie Cameron (Photo submitted by Callie Cameron)

Player Highlights

OFFENSE

Kelce 43 receiving yards

DEFENSE

(photos from MCT Campus)

Watkins 98 receiving yards

Hill 105 receiving yards

Mahomes 286 passing yards

Jones 3 pass deflections

Fuller 1 interception

Mathieu 6 tackles FEBRUARY 2020

05

NEWS

StOpping the Stigma Signs of Suicide program introduced Jan. 23 to inform students about suicide.

BY KATE CONWAY REPORTER

The freshmen and junior classes broke up to participate in the Signs of Suicide program to help students become aware of the signs of suicide during activity period on Thursday, Jan. 23. Seniors and sophomores will participate in the same program Thursday Feb. 13.

The SOS program was introduced to the school to help end the stigma around mental health in the community, according to counselor Karen Phillips.

The program is intended to inform students on ways mental health issues affect teenagers today.

“For me, it’s really about trying to help people feel comfortable seeking support for their mental health. I want the stigma to end,” counselor Erika Ellwanger said. “My hope is the entire school community can be part of the effort to care for one another. I don’t want the

conversation or activities to be limited to one day. I hope it becomes part of a larger community effort.”

Junior Anna Gordon is an advocate for ending the stigma around mental health and encouraging dialogue within the community about mental health. Gordon believes that the program will most definitely benefit the community, but that doesn’t mean the community should stop here. Gordon believes they need to continue focusing on the well-being of students.

“The program could help students recognize when their friends are going through changes and it will hopefully help students feel comfortable enough to speak out,” Gordon said.

The program teaches that it can be hard to tell the difference between normal adolescent turmoil and what might be a mental health concern, according to Phillips.

SOS is a program for middle school to high school ages. Their hope is to limit suicide related deaths and attempts by giving communities more information about suicide, according to Suicide

Anger

Self Harm

Poor Health

Signs Of Suicide

Prevention Resource Center.

“I hope people realize that having depression or another mental illness is not a weakness,” Ellwanger said.

“They didn’t cause it, and it can be treated.”

The program enforces ACT, which stands for acknowledge, care and tell.

SOS helps teach the warning signs of suicide, how to help a friend in that situation, treatment options and how to take care of oneself in a similar situation.

Freshman Paige Castillo believes that it will be important to know the signs to help friends in a similar situation.

As a community it is important to identify that many students struggle with mental health issues and to make it okay to talk about these things, according to Phillips. During the program it was emphasized that students are not alone and that everyone is here to support each other in the community.

“I think that it was important that our school used this program,” Gordon said. “High school is hard in many different ways for people. If it helped just one person then I consider it successful.”

No Sense of Purpose

Agitation

Sudden Mood Changes

Lethargy

Suicide Hotline: 1-800-273-8255 Crisis Textline: 741741

Substance Abuse Reckless Behavior

Poor Health

Anxiety

Withdrawal of Interests

06 LE JOURNAL

BATTER UP As Spanish Club starts making breakfast in the cafeteria Jan. 22 during their fundraiser for Ecuadorian student Nohelia, junior Cirese Mendolia pops open a can of cinnamon rolls to make cinnamon roll waffles. “One of my absolute favorite things to do as a kid was pop open a good old Pillsbury dough can,” Mendolia said.

“I don’t know what I liked about it so much but it just gives me a sudden rush of happiness.” (Photo by Kate Vankeirsbilck)

Breakfast For Nohelia Students flocked to the annual Spanish Club breakfast at 9 after receiving a late start Jan. 22, raising $315.

BY CATHERINE CRAYON REPORTER

With the scent of cinnamon rolls and coffee filling the cafeteria, Spanish Club members raised $315 for an Ecuadorian girl at their breakfast Jan. 22.

“There’ were a lot of people there,” junior Hannah Borgmeyer, Spanish Club treasurer, said. “It’s nice because you get to see other students that you wouldn’t normally see throughout the school day.”

This is the sixth year that the club has held this fundraiser. The cost of breakfast was $4, and options included waffles, fruit, coffee and orange juice.

Every year the Spanish Club chooses one child to sponsor and send the proceeds to through the organization Children International. The goal this year was to raise $450 for a young girl named Nohelia in Ecuador.

“The money we are raising today are put toward dental and medical bills, along with school supplies,” Spanish Club sponsor Alicia Gomez said.

Spanish Club currently has 10 members. Members donated everything that was sold, from the coffee and waffles, to the coffee and orange juice.

“My favorite food was the chocolate chip waffle.

I also had a cinnamon roll so I dipped them in icing,” junior Lia Concannon said. “I also shared a toaster strudel with Katherine Lillis that was really sweet.”

NEWS

Funding a Cause Director of Facilities and Operations Andy Sheer was diagnosed with cancer and his fund site has raised almost $20,000 more than the goal.

BY AVA STOLTZ PRINT CO-EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Director of Facilities and Operations Andy Sheer was diagnosed with cancer early December causing Mission Director Annie Riggs and others to organize a GoFundMe account for him and his family which has raised $44,000, almost $20,000 more than the goal of $25,000 in under a month.

“Once we became aware of his condition and we knew there would be tons and tons of added expenses even with insurance, we really wanted to help,” Riggs said. “Part of it is the financial boost, but another part is just that people want to do something to help and want to let him know that they care.”

Sheer was diagnosed with Stage IV Urethral cancer after three months of undergoing treatment for related symptoms. Riggs set up the GoFundMe and directed the proceeds to Sheer’s wife, Jennifer Sheer, as a way to help Sheer and his family deal with medical expenses and other expenses such as gas and groceries.

“It was funny because when we set up the GoFundMe we were trying to figure out what an appropriate goal was because we had no idea,” Riggs said. “We thought maybe $5,000 or $10,000, and we thought let’s shoot really high and go for $25,000. Then to see all those donations coming in

THREE CHEERS FOR SANTA Director of Facilities and Operations Andy Sheer dresses up as Santa to help with the annual Breakfast with Santa hosted in the gym Dec. 2, 2017. (Photo by Melissa Koppers)

really warmed my heart.” school and high school which helped Jones realize The GoFundMe was posted and shared on he was the spirit of Sion, according to Jones.

Facebook and the GoFundMe website December “Andy is like a second father to me. He 12. As of Feb. 7, the total is $44,000. The page is a stand-up guy, and often times we don’t reached its goal in about a week with donations appreciate the faculty enough for their dedication pouring in from faculty, students, alumni and to impacting students’ lives. Most of it goes others who know Sheer, including companies who unnoticed,” Jones said. “I just wanted to do what have worked with him due to his job as Director of I can to ensure his impact could be felt for a long Facilities and Operations. time to come.”

“I loved seeing donations from teachers that haven’t taught here for “It’s a testimony to his life and how 20 years or from parents that their many people care about him.” kids graduated 10 years ago who -High School Principal Natalie McDonough donated,” High School Principal Natalie McDonough said. “It’s a testimony to his life and how many people that care about him.

Even those who didn’t donate, there’s people that have given gift cards or sent food or sent cards just to let them know that they’re all thinking about him.”

Sheer’s condition has led to support from faculty, students and alumni alike McDonough said. Sheer has worked at Sion for 17 years and is known for being a huge part of the community and the heart and soul of the school, according to McDonough.

CHEERING FOR JOY “He embodies our mission. He always While making a video to send to Director of Facilities responds with a yes or a helping hand, and he and Operations Andy Sheer to help keep his spirits will do anything for anyone,” Riggs said. “He has up, Assistant Principal for Student Life Fran Koehler, the biggest heart and is so passionate about Sion.

Math teacher Lori Moore and History teacher Taylor We’ve joked over the years about him bleeding Hersh shout ‘We love and miss you Andy.’ (Photo by Ava Stoltz) purple, and through the years he has been an integral part of our community.”

Stuco is putting together a program called Fun Fridays that will run in late January and throughout February. The goal of the events is raised of $25,000 goal to help make school more fun, while also raising 315 899 316 money for Sheer through the events. Activities donors shares followers include Red Friday for the Chiefs with a tailgate and multiple civvies days.

Donate now “We are planning some fun events in February on Fridays, and all the fundraisers will DONATE NOW go to help benefit Andy,” Stuco sponsor Jenny Scan here to go to the GoFundMe link to donate to Andy Sheer’s cause, Brown-Howerton said. and the proceeds will go to his wife Some students and alumni even took matters Jennifer Sheer to help with medical into their own hands by posting the links to the expenses.

GoFundMe on their Snapchat or Instagram stories in hopes to get other people to donate. Alumna VIDEO TIME Scan here to see the video made Kaitlin Jones 19’ posted the link on her Instagram for Andy Sheer organized by and Snapchat story after being impacted by Sheer seniors Munachi Okuagu and Reilly during her years at Sion. Sheer drove Jones to Jackoboice. school everyday for about two and a half years through the carpool program between the grade

Caring for Andy $44,000

“What I’ve always loved about Andy is that he never said ‘the students’ or ‘the girls.’ He always would say ‘I can’t have my girls in that situation’ or ‘we need to have security for my girls.’ I think he has always considered the students to be part of his extended family.”- religion teacher Bonnie Haghirian

FEBRUARY 2020

07

FEATURES

STUCK IN A BLaze Australia is undergoing intense forest fires that is greatly affecting residents, wildlife and the environment.

amounts of smoke and smoke inhalation complications. Among the affected are professional tennis players in Melbourne. Tennis player Frank Dancevic hallucinated and shortly after he passed out during his second match

BY KEELY SCHIEFFER according to Deadspin.

REPORTER “If we did things that tried to combat climate change a long time ago,” Vandenbrul he hot blaze of the flames is extending said. “Perhaps we wouldn’t be in this situation.” across the whole continent of Australia The forest fires are both nature and man since late July due to the high made. Currently, Australia is experiencing one of temperatures and dry weather during the worst droughts in history with temperatures the summer season. that reach up to 113 to 120 degrees Fahrenheit.

“It’s just horrible to see so many people and The dry environment, heat fire and starters such animals displaced,” teacher Amy Vandenbrul as lighting strikes help allow said. fires to start. Accompanying the Since the fires started, 25 “I think the fires natural causes, 24 people have people have died nationwide, been arrested for deliberately 2,000 homes have been could’ve been causing bushfires. Climate destroyed and millions of avoided and change has intensified the fires animals have been killed and according to Vandenbrul. displaced, according to CNN. In should not have “Green Team is selling attempts to minimize the fires, happened in the baked goods to raise funds firefighters in other countries for two different groups, one including the United States have first place.” stepped in to help Australia.

- Sophomore Georgia that assists humans and the other has to deal with animal Kangaroos and koalas are the Wilson rehabilitation,” Vandenbrul said. primary animals killed by the Green Team, with the help fires, with wombats as a close of the community, is working on helping those in second. need in Australia. Green Team president Nicole “All the places we usually go away in the Jackson organized a bake sale and the profits will summer are destroyed, and it is going to take be distributed to the two Australian charities. years and years to get it back to the way it used Many people are looking to help the victims to be,” Australian exchange student sophomore of the fires. Organizations such as Australian Georgia Wilson said.

Red Cross have received generous donations.

Every Australian state has been affected by Chief executive officer of Amazon Jeff Bezos the fires, but the Southeast Coast has been the most affected. New South Wales has had the most announced Amazon’s donation of $690,000 to support the Australian community. Actor Liam severe fires out of any state. Major cities such as Hemsworth and his family have also donated a Melbourne and Sydney have been impacted by the fires. In all, 24 million acres of land have been sum of one million dollars to those in need of charred across the continent, according to CNN. aid.

“Even from far away, you can help those “The air pollution is bad,” Wilson said. “Just who are in need by donating,” Jackson said. “It by walking around it is like smoking a pack of is important we do what we can now to help and cigarettes and that affects most kids.” make a change because this is our future.”

Australians are suffering from the large

T

$

$1.39 Billion has been donated so far

2.0 m 2018 California Fires

6.7 m

2019 Siberian Fires

17.9 m

2019 Australian Fires

25 people have died

1

2,541 houses have been damaged Billion animals have died Temperatures reach up to 120° 1/3 of the koala population has died

(According to bustle.com and statista.com) (Illustrations by Keely Schieffer)

08 LE JOURNAL

FEATURES

B u r n ifrom ng AFAR

Australian exchange students witness the burning of their country’s forests and wildlife from their host homes in Kansas City this past January.

BY AVERY BRUNDIGE FEATURES EDITOR

B

Our Lady of Sion College juniors Emily Bourke, Meg Pellegrino, and Keeley McLeod watch from their host homes in Kansas City as Australia wildfires burn.

(Photo by Grace Hills, illustration by Avery Brundige)

illions of acres scorched and native animals killed. Thousands of homes and families devastated. Ten girls watch their country burn from 9,000 miles away. As flames ravage the Australian countryside and thick smoke settles over Melbourne, Australian students Meg Pellegrino, Keeley McLeod and Georgia Wilson witness the savage and unstoppable death of what Australians call “the bush” from their host homes in Kansas City.

“It’s quite sad to see happen, especially when you’re away from home,” Pellegrino said.

“Knowing that it’s affected wildlife and the people in your country. That’s the saddest part.”

As each of the 10 exchange students waved goodbye to their homes and hello to their American hosts Dec. 28, a substantial 12 million acres had burned. Upon reentry into Australia, the girls face an estimated 20 million, according to NASA. That is more than the amount burned in the Amazon Rain Forest and in California in 2019 combined.

“It’s hard. Everyone would say it’s hard,” Wilson said. “You just want to be there with your family to help, but you can’t really do much when you’re not in the midst of it.”

Although their hometown of Melbourne remains relatively unaffected by the fires themselves, many of the girls have friends and relatives that were warned to leave their homes.

McLeod’s extended family members are included among the thousands evacuated. Her dad’s side of the family was relocated in early January due to

the threat the bush fires posed on their property.

“In Melbourne, it’s just really smokey,” McLeod said. “But I know my dad’s family, they’ve had to evacuate from the fires.”

Concerns lie not only in the fires themselves, but also in the lasting air pollution that will choke the world for years to come, according to Pelligrino. Our Lady of Sion College senior Chloe Phila is currently residing in Melbourne and has seen the effects of the fires suffocate her community.

Many cities, including Phila’s, have been instructed to avoid the outdoors due to the smoke’s toxic effects. Living in Melbourne can be equivalent to smoking a pack of cigarettes per day, depending on exposure, according to McLeod.

“I’m fairly far away from the fires, yet the effects are terrible,” Phila said. “The sky has been non stop gray, I think this summer we have had two days of clear sky. The rest we can’t even see the sun because of the smoke.”

Many believe Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison did too little, too late, according to Wilson. Despite this, Phila believes these fires have brought Australia together. Fundraisers, like comic Celeste Barber’s have raised millions of dollars in a short period of time.

“Although it’s terrible what’s happened, I think it’s made us come together,” Phila said. “One woman started a fund, and it gained $50 million in three days. It’s really scary to see the effects of climate change and the beautiful land we have lost, but it really has brought Australia together.”

FEBRUARY 2020

09

STAFF EDITORIAL

KANSAS CITY 11 gun-related deaths in 2020 148 gun-related homicides Five mass shootings 95 shootings with handguns

NATIONWIDE 2,200 gun-related deaths in 2020 15,306 gun-related homicides 148 mass shootings 7,028 shootings with handguns (Statistics according to the KCPD and Gun Violence Archive)

Pe ple are the Pr blem People kill people, but weapons like guns make it easier to do so.

Ask a gun to kill someone. It will not because it is a gun. Ask a person planning to commit a mass murder to choose a weapon, however, and they will almost certainly choose a gun. Though it is true that a gun cannot kill by itself, a gun makes killing much easier for the people who operate them.

People kill people, sure, but guns certainly assist them in doing so effectively.

So why are there so many legislatures set on keeping legal ownership and buying of guns without hardly any restrictions or regulations?

Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas announced his plans to sue gun manufacturing company Jimenez Arms for dealing to a gun trafficking ring that provided guns to known felons, which Lucas alleged “endangered the entire city” Jan. 7. According to Lucas, he hopes that by holding the gun companies accountable, the homicide rate, which was at a record high in 2019 according to the Kansas City Star, will decline.

However, suing private gun companies will not stop the homicides. A series of similar lawsuits occurred in the 1980s and 1990s with little success in lowering the homicide rate in the cities the lawsuit was filed in, such as Chicago and Bridgeport, according to National Public Radio. Instead, those in power such as Lucas should focus on passing gun control laws which will help more in the long run than a likely frivolous lawsuit.

States with stronger gun control laws, like those in the Northeast and Hawaii have the lowest rates of death per capita while states with the loosest gun laws, like Missouri, have the highest death rates per capita, according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention. Gun control is the best chance there is to help decrease violence and homicides in the Kansas City metropolitan area.

The process of getting a driver’s license is an essential one because it consists of multiple steps and requires years of experience before one can get behind the wheel of a vehicle that has the potential to kill someone if used irresponsibly. Yet buying a gun is somehow significantly easier than the years-long process of getting a driver’s license. In Missouri, there are no background checks and a buyer of at least 18 years of age needs only to provide a state ID, such as a driver’s license, to purchase a firearm with no registration or purchase permits necessary, according to Guns To Carry.

Though it is true that people kill people, people kill people with guns, so those guns should be harder to obtain. At the very least, those who purchase guns should complete at least a moderate training course and should require a permit to buy a gun as well as a gun license.

In 2007, Missouri repealed its permit-to-purchase handgun law. That year there was an approximately 25% increase in homicides, according to a study by the Journal of Urban Health. It is clear that requiring a permit to

10 LE JOURNAL

purchase guns makes guns less available to possible dangerous persons and therefore decreases homicide rates.

Additionally, providing more legal supervision at gun shows will prevent illegal selling of firearms. Gun show sales account for approximately 4-9% of all gun sales, according to Gifford’s Law Center. According to an investigation by the Department of Justice, there have been hundreds of arrests at gun shows for illegal selling of firearms, including selling to convicted felons and straw purchases, which is buying a gun for someone who is barred from owning one. These gun shows need more supervision and must be held accountable for following gun laws.

There also must be more enforcement that prevents those on the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s “no-fly list” from purchasing firearms.

Individuals on the FBI’s no-fly list, which is made up of known or suspected terrorists, can still pass a background check and purchase a gun, according to Congressional Research Reports. Additionally, many states do not require background checks that would catch things like being on the no-fly list, making purchasing a gun easier.

A waiting period of a few Lastly, a waiting days can decrease suicides period between the purchase of a gun and from guns by 7-11%, and owning the gun would decrease gun homicides by help significantly in decreasing homicide almost 17%. rates but also in -The National Academy of Sciences. decreasing suicide rates. Waiting periods provide a period of “cooling off ” to prevent any crimes of passion or sudden acts of violence. Those who commit or attempt suicide often only contemplate for a period of fewer than 24 hours, according to the Journal of Clinical Psychology, and it is estimated that a waiting period of a few days can decrease suicides from guns by 7-11%, according to the National Academy of Science. Additionally, it can potentially decrease gun homicides by almost 17%, according to the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.

Gun control is a clear solution to solve the homicide rate in Kansas City, which is the sixth most dangerous city in the country, according to Only in Your State. Make it harder for people to kill people by putting restrictions on the weapons they use to kill other people: guns.

This editorial reflects the views of the Le Journal Staff. Fifteen out of 20 members voted in favor of this editorial.

OPINION

As the popularity of TikTok has risen, so have the questions of how it handles user data.

KENNEDY WADE MANAGING PRINT EDITOR

In an increasingly digital age, it’s easy to become desensitized to the dangers associated with allowing social media websites and apps to collect user information. It happens all the time.

In 2019, a leak exposed the personal data of 49 million Instagram users, according to The Times. Twitter and Facebook have additionally had their fair shares of security breaches, with Facebook having three in 2019 alone, according to CNET. Now, at the height of its popularity, TikTok has joined the ranks of other social media titans with mishandling user information - this time with the more serious allegation of purposefully handing off the information to China.

TikTok has previously been in the headlines for mismanaging its users information. In February of 2019, TikTok and its parent company, ByteDance, were hit by the U.S. Federal Trade Commission with a $5.7 million fine for illegally collecting the data of users under 13.

This included names, emails, and addresses, according to CNN. Last November, TikTok once again began to garner attention when the U.S. government began investigating ByteDance’s acquisition of Musical.ly, TikTok’s former name before it was purchased.

The Chinese startup company did not seek clearance from the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States, according to The New York Times. This allowed the U.S. Congress to launch an investigation into the company, with the primary concerns being data storage measures and TikTok potentially censoring political content.

The concern over TikTok only grew after the United States military banned its use on government issued phones, citing potential security threats, according to The New York Times. The ban came after a warning issued by the Pentagon during Congress’s continued investigation into the app and its parent company. In response, TikTok issued a statement that its highest priority was “earning the trust of users and regulators in the U.S.,” according to CNBC. TikTok has a wide user base in the United States, with around 26.5 million monthly users in the United States. With that massive of an amount of frequent users, a data breach would be a major issue. Users have every reason to be concerned over where their data is going and how it’s stored, but should be careful with every app that collects potentially sensitive information.

For users concerned about the potential security threats, the best course of action is to delete the app, their account, and to get their short video fix off of a different website.

Tik Tok Fame is fabricated GRACE HILLS REPORTER

I am the best scam artist of our generation.

With a Stock photo and some fake texts, I managed to get 3.6 million views, accumulate almost a million likes and 20,000 followers on Tik Tok. Let me set the scene. It’s a dreary Sunday which was not unusual considering that it was during the beginning of October, meaning winter break was too far away to visualize and the freedom high of summer was fading. My best friend, junior Tori Galligani, and I had spent the last few hours around the city going to our usual spots of 913 Nutrition and Duck Donuts.

Eventually we found ourselves mindlessly scrolling through Tik Tok in a parking lot. Your typical midwest weekend, you know?

I had scrolled through all the major trend videos with #foryoupage in the caption when I stumbled upon a video of a girl reading the texts that her mom had sent her after she had found her JUUL. Now me, being the angel that I am, have never had something like this happen to me. But, I did know that some people tell their parents that their vapes are actually a flash drive, which got me thinking. I borrowed Tori’s phone and changed her contact name to “Mom.” Next thing you know, we’re Googling photos of a flash drives and sending fake texts.

“Mark my words,” I told Tori, “this is going to go viral.”

It did. This completely fabricated version of the truth hit an audience bigger than the population of my hometown, which is hard to conceptualize. I showed my mom, who thought it was absolutely hilarious. She would never get that irrational over text, which made her laugh even more. After scrolling through the comments, we found out that the commenters wanted a reaction video. My mom majored in acting and was completely on board with making a fake reaction video.

This idolized idea of “fame” we all have in our heads is fabricated. Though 20,000 followers isn’t a large number compared to the millions of others out there, it still classified me as “famous” on Tik Tok. “Fame” just means an overwhelming amount of notifications and people from middle school asking for a shoutout. It’s not glitter and gold. Its fame is completely fabricated.

Tik Tok fame was fun while it lasted.

HANNAH SUE KENNISH GUEST COLUMNIST

This summer I was in California and had just recently downloaded TikTok. I was reluctant to even download the app because it was just recently Musical.ly, which was popularly known as an awful and cringy app. Ever since, however, I think I speak for almost everyone when I say that I’m on TikTok way too much and spend my downtime watching videos and sharing them with my friends.

While in California, “Stranger Things” season three had just came out and everyone was watching it. I had the bright idea of joining my two favorite things at the time - Minecraft and “Stranger Things.” So, I recorded a video that documented the various steps of me building the Starcourt Mall, the setting of season three. The actual mall they filmed in is in Georgia, and I Googled the blueprints and everything to build it accurately.

The video blew up overnight and gained over 5.4 million views on that video alone, 1 million likes overall, and 180k followers at the peak of the hype. I filmed six follow-up videos of my progression of the mall, but as soon as I came home from California I suddenly became uninterested in both Minecraft and “Stranger Things” so I stopped filming. The mall wasn’t really turning out how I wanted to and was taking up a lot of my time, so I decided that it was fun while it lasted but I was done with it.

It’s been months now but I still get fluctuations of hundreds of followers everyday and comments asking when I’m going to finish the mall. Ever since it’s been an ongoing joke with my friends and family members that I’m TikTok famous even though I put in the absolute minimal effort. If I had to do it all over again, I wish I had the patience to actually finish the mall but either way being on the For You Page was fun while it lasted.

FOLLOW HANNAH SUE ON TIKTOK:

FOLLOW GRACE ON TIKTOK:

FEBRUARY 2020

11

OPINION

Oscars So White and Male Even after the all-white nominations in 2015 and 2016, the Oscars still lack diversity in their voting pool and list of nominees.

BY KAMRYN ROGERS PRINT CO-EDITOR-INCHIEF

When watching AsianAmerican actor and producer John Cho and African-American actor/ writer/producer Issa Rae host the two-part live Oscar nominations announcement, many might have assumed they were a direct reflection of the diversity found in the nominations.

But when you turned on the television and watched the 92nd Academy Awards Feb. 9, the lack of people of color in the room was surprising. Though #Oscarssowhite began in 2015, this has been a problem since the Academy’s founding. In this year’s nominations, only one of the 20 actors and actresses nominated for Academy Awards was a person of color, and no female director was nominated for Best Director.

Cynthia Erivo in “Harriet” saved the Academy yet again from an all-white slate, being the only person of color nominated in the Best Actress and Best Original Songs categories. Besides the acting categories, 77% of this year’s nominees are male, according to a recent study by the Women’s Media Center. This is partially due to the fact that white and male voters still make up the majority of the Academy’s 9,000-member voting pool. This pool recommends the final list of nominees and therefore determines which parts of American culture deserve to be idolized.

Following and watching our favorite movies throughout the year is ingrained in American culture.

As the Oscars approach, millions wait for the Academy to release the nominee list; however, each year certain films, actors and actresses are snubbed from the final list. More specifically, people of color and women are consistently excluded from each category. Statistically, films that include actors and actresses of different races cater to a larger audience, thus generating a larger income for films that promote diversity. Yet, these movies are historically underrepresented at award shows in general, not just the Oscars.

This year’s snubs included Awkwafina in “The Farewell,” Eddie Murphy in “Dolemite Is My Name,” Lupita Nyong’o in “Us,” Jamie Foxx in “Just Mercy” and “Queen & Slim” director Melina Matsoukas, among others. When taking a closer look at the gender bias in each category, the nominees are overwhelmingly male, except for the categories specifically for women.

In the Oscar’s 92-year history, only five women have been nominated for Best Director, including the 2018 nominee, Greta Gerwig, for her work in Lady Bird.

In 2017, history was made when the Academy nominated Rachel Morison for Best Cinematography for her work in “Mudbound.” These are positive strides towards female representation within award shows.

However, both of the previously mentioned women are white, and it is rare for women of color to be included in these categories.

While the Oscars are working to diversify both their voting pool and their nominees after their all-white nominations lists in both 2015 and 2016, there should be more progress by this point. Turning on the television and seeing nominees who look like you should be a reality for all Americans. But the Oscars remain a reflection of a non-diverse Hollywood.

NOT SO OSCAR WORTHY

2 out of 20 nominated for Oscars were to people of color

12 LE JOURNAL

Some of this year’s snubs 1. Pictured is Daniel Kaluuya and Jodie Turner-Smith in Queen and Slim 2. Pictured is Greta Gerwig, director of “Little Women.”

3. Pictured is Jennifer Lopez in “Hustlers.”

4. Pictured is Lupita Nyong’o in “US.” 5. Pictured is Awkwafina in “The Farewell.”

6.Pictured is Michael B. Jordan and Jamie Foxx in “Just Mercy.”

7. Pictured is Eddie Murphy in “Dolemite is My Name.”

(Photos by MCT Campus)

Shoot Arrow

OPINION

Your

Valentine’s Day is separated by gender, creating unequal expectations.

BY SELA KINCAID VIDEO AND CONTENT EDITOR

Everyone spends money. Money on dates, food, clothes and gifts for women and men wanting to receive and give to their other half. Sharing roles in planning an event, especially Valentine’s Day, is important. Women need to take charge and treat their significant other, while still being treated by their other half.

February is seen as a month of romance, filled with chocolates and flowers. Valentine’s Day is the peak of this month of romance, spreading love to all the couples in the United States. St. Valentine is seen as the inspiration for this holiday. The story goes that in Rome young men were banned from getting married, with the idea that single men were better soldiers. St. Valentine, a priest, believed this was wrong; he continued to perform marriages in secret, later having to pay for this with his life, according to History.com.

Men are traditionally seen as the planners and gift-givers of Valentine’s Day. In a survey taken by Bankrate, men planned to spend around $339, where women planned to only spend $64. It is clear that men are expected to bring in the big bucks for Valentine’s Day. But women simply spend just a bit below the average date, usually costing $102, according to USA Today.

There needs to be a new norm with a lower and more equal spending limit.

Women are very capable of taking on this task. Take charge and treat your significant other. Why not show love equally through a night together. Take

Valentine’s Day as an opportunity to have a special night, meaning a lot to both of you, not just one-sided happiness and the other broke from overpaying.

Overspending does not necessarily make for a great Valentine’s Day. To enjoy relationships there shouldn’t be a focus on money, but instead the time together. Valentine’s Day is based on love, or affection for another human being.

This is not something bought, but instead should be something shared. Women and men can spend less and create a more meaningful event by doing less storebought experiences.

To take charge and still have the money afterward, you might opt for the less expensive route. This could be something like going ice skating and cooking dinner at home or setting up a game night and having other couples come over and play. Maybe even go completely homemade and paint pictures together following a Bob Ross tutorial. Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to be extremely romantic as you can give or get gifts in many different ways. What matters the most is time together and equal participation.

This Valentines Day, take charge and stand for what you want. Whether it is to buy dinner for your significant other, cook a meal together, gift homemade presents or just spending time together. Women and men can have equal involvement in all of these ideas.

Allowing one side to pay and create this scene is unfair and only allows one side to express effort in the relationship. If women step up to take the responsibility of demonstrating romance and care for their significant other, Valentine’s Day would be more meaningful.

Go back to the roots of what Valentine’s Day is for the love and connection between two people to create an equally shared holiday that brings joy and happiness to both.

Share the Love Junior Brynna Dow “I definitely think that in a relationship you should give something to them and hopefully they give something to you.”

Sophomore Tess Tappan “You have to put in effort to get out effort. It’s a two way street.”

Freshman Katherine Porch “I feel like in a relationship, its you love that person the same amount, so you give them stuff and go to dinner and just spend time together.”

Do you want to be treated or treat: 41.7% want to be treated 27.1% want to treat 31.3% treat themselves

Do you want to have equal participation in Valentine’s Day: 90.6% yes 9.4% no

Go Online to Le Journal Live to take a “Who am I on Valentine’s Day” Quiz

(Illustrations by Sela Kincaid) FEBRUARY 2020

13

COVER STORY

VIOLENCE IN

KANSAS CITY

39.0997° N, 94.5786° W

Kansas City has filed for a lawsuit against gun trafficking ring members in order to decrease violence within the city.

STORY BY EMMA HUTCHIN PHOTO EDITOR INFOGRAPHICS BY MALEAH DOWNTON WEB EDITOR-IN-CHIEF AND EMMA HUTCHIN PHOTO EDITOR

K

ansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas filed a public nuisance lawsuit against a Nevada gun manufacturer and firearm dealers Jan. 7.

Kansas City is the first city in more than 10 years to file a lawsuit against the gun industry and involved parties, according to Lucas. During a video press conference, Lucas announced that the city is bringing action against multiple defendants. Lucas said that the suit ‘relates to the fact that illegal gun trafficking has created a public nuisance,’ and is the cause of increasing deaths within the metro.

In 2019, there were approximately 148 homicides in the Kansas City jurisdiction, 86 of which were cleared and solved, according to the Kansas City police department. This is an escalation from 135 homicides in 2018, and 128 in 2016. This number does not include other violent crimes, such as armed robbery, rape or assault.

Then on Jan. 19, just hours after a Chief ’s AFC Championship victory, two people were killed and 15 injured at a nightclub shooting, according to KMBC. “When I heard about the shooting, it made me nervous because I have a connection to the man who owns the club,” senior Marigrace Bishop said. “It made me angry that people think it’s okay to react in that kind of way, to take another’s life for the benefit of their own.”

The lawsuit has been filed against a gun trafficking ring led by accused former Kansas City Fire Department Captain James Samuels, Nevada gun manufacturer

14 LE JOURNAL

Jimenez Arms and other smaller arms dealers.

“Taking any force of action to decrease the homicide rate would benefit the city. It goes to show how powerful the gun industry is and how money can take control of certain situations,” senior Phoebe Mullen said. “I think what Mayor Lucas is doing is a great thing for the city, but unfortunately people are going to get their hands on guns, regardless of laws and regulations.”

Kansas City has requested that, under court order, Jimenez Arms and other involved parties must recover trafficked items, comply with firearm laws, participate in a five-year monitoring program with integrity testing and undergo training, according to the Kansas City website.

Many of the contributors involved in the trafficking ring are not Kansas City residents, according to Lucas.

He said that there are ‘private actors that each day create new threats for the citizens of Kansas City.’

Everytown Law, a counsel branched off of Everytown For Gun Safety, is partnering with the city on the suit. Everytown works to provide an understanding of gun violence and how to prevent it, according to their website.

The city is asking for reimbursement for dealing with violent crimes and an order for defendants to acquire previously trafficked firearms, according to Everytown Law. Both Mayor Lucas and Everytown Law were contacted but declined to comment.

COVER STORY

50% Yes

No

of Students Noticed/Have Seen an Increase in KC’s Violence

2018 Violent Crimes

By Police Department

Kansas City, MO: 8,141 Kansas City, KS: 1,163 Independence, MO: 521 Overland Park, KS: 440 Lee’s Summit, MO: 118 Leawood, KS: 26 *Violent crimes are classified as murder and non-negligent manslaughter, rape, robbery and aggravated assault.

Yes No

Kansas

KC Crime Map

33.33%

of Students Have or Know Someone Who’s Been Affected by KC’s Violence

Missouri

2018 Crime Rate: 439 2018 Crime Rate: 502.1 2013 Crime Rate: 342.8VS 2013 Crime Rate: 433.7 2008 Crime Rate: 412.3 2008 Crime Rate: 502.4

United States VS Kansas & Missouri

540 520 500 480 460

United States Missouri Kansas

440 420 400 380

*Rate of Violent Crime by Population

360 340

*Darker = higher crime rates

2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018

Most Dangerous Areas in KC 1. Inner City KCMO 2. Downtown KCMO 3. Kansas City, KS

Will Mayor’s Lawsuit Help?

Maybe No

(According to student survey)

Student Body Demographics

79.2 of students live in the suburbs 171 students live in Kansas 159 students live in Missouri

Yes

Yes: 28.3% No: 17.4% Maybe: 50% No opinion: 4.4%

6th

Safest Areas in KC 1. Leawood, KS 2. Overland Park, KS 3. Lee’s Summit, MO (According to student survey)

Most Dangerous City in United States *Ranked according to homicide rates

*Infographic statistics according to Federal Bureau of Investigation Crime Data Explorer, student survey (48 polled), The Trace and Neighborhood Scout.

(Photo from Wikimedia Commons and Photo Illustration by Maleah Downton) FEBRUARY 2020

15

FEATURES

SASSY DIVAS’ DRILL MASTER MAKAILA TRAYLOR STORY & DESIGN BY CALLIE CAMERON A&E EDITOR

Drill Master, freshman Makaila Traylor, furthers her dance career.

M

ajorette. Co-captain of the Sassy Divas since July and a drummer. Her pastimes also include a variety of musically-inclined extracurriculars, like participating in the musical “Little Shop of Horrors,” acting, improv, dancing and drumline. But most importantly, freshman Makaila Traylor aims to be a majorette dancer in college.

“I didn’t take it seriously because I didn’t know I was really going to do it,” Traylor said. “Then I started, and I was like oh snap. I’m really doing this. This year they added heels for the parade. The parades are five hours long nothing but dancing.

Sometimes in the cold. Sometimes in the heat or the rain.”

Traylor “Oh snap, I’m first started really doing this,” dancing with the Marching Cobras Traylor said. after seeing an advertisement on television. The Marching Cobras are a drill team, a type of orchestrated dance group where performers march in unison, but the movement has been infused with hip-hop, jazz and African dance. They are well known for marching in the popular parades in the Kansas City area like the upcoming St. Patrick’s Day

16 LE JOURNAL

parade in the Brookside neighborhood on March 14. Since joining, Traylor has found her passion and made lifelong friends who she calls her dance sisters.

“There’s this thing that if you join at the same time as another person they’re your dance sister.

I had two dance sisters,” Traylor said. “We would practice together and go to each other’s houses. It’s really fun. I wish I could do that again.”

Last July, Traylor leveled up to co-captain of the Sassy Divas, a college prep dance company that equips young girls to be a majorette in college.

They participate in more serious competitions and parades. With a busy schedule, Traylor juggles Diva practice on Wednesday and Friday and drumline before school on Tuesday and Friday.

“As much as I complain, I really like that she is getting to experience so many different things,” Traylor’s mother, Kendra Black said. “It’s opening her mind up to a ton of different things. Kaila really is a dancer, and now being drill master she has to be on top of everything.”

Positioned front row for her high kicks and skill, Traylor leads her team through the harsh beating drums in the background. Staying on rhythm and keeping in sync with those around her is no easy feat according to her mother, but Traylor started dancing in the seventh grade and has earned her spot at the top.

“What’s unique about Kaila? Everything.

She brings energy like none other. Her energy her excitement her enthusiasm is phenomenal,” music and drumline teacher Elizabeth Mulkey said. “She is always smiling and laughing. She’s an incredible snare player actually. She’s a really great learner, she picks things up really quickly. I’m super excited because she’s only a freshman. She’s going to be huge.”

FEATURES

DANCING IN THE MOONLIGHT Pictured above is freshman Makaila Traylor posing at Prairiefire in Overland Park, Kansas wearing her competition outfit. (Photo by Callie Cameron) Pictured on the left is Traylor at the drumline pep assembly Nov. 7. (Photo by Kaitlin Lyman)

FEBRUARY 2020

17

FEATURES

The Future Junior Rajitha Velakaturi uses her free time to campaign for various political candidates in the upcoming presidential and congressional elections.

STORY, PHOTO AND ILLUSTRATIONS BY EDITORIAL EDITOR MAGGIE MCKINNEY

A

s she settles into her fold-out plastic chair at the campaign office, junior Rajitha Velakaturi opens her laptop and prepares herself for a day of doing a job not many people expect a teenager to do: calling voters on behalf of a presidential candidate.

She opens up the call list, punches the assigned number into her phone and lets the dial tone ring.

Velakaturi is a volunteer for Pete Buttigieg’s campaign for president. Previously, she also worked on campaigns for Congresswoman Sharice Davids, former congressional candidate Jay Sidie and Kansas Governor Laura Kelly.

“I was really affected by the 2016 presidential election, and I didn’t want to stand idly by. I wanted to make an impact somehow,” Velakaturi said. “So I went on to the websites for a bunch of politicians I agreed with and signed up to volunteer.”

Velakaturi’s interest in politics began in seventh grade, when her and her mother, Madhuri Vadlamudi, attended a meet-andgreet near their home for several elected officials. Velakaturi then heard about an event with one

(Photos by Maggie McKinney)

18 LE JOURNAL

candidate at a nearby café.

“I hung out at the coffee shop during the event, and I learned about what a politician really does and why it’s important,” Velakaturi said. “After talking to these different candidates and learning why they wanted to run for office, it stuck with me and made me want to get involved.”

While at the campaign office, Velakaturi does a variety of tasks for the campaign she is working on. She frequently “phone-banks” or “text-banks,” which is calling or texting people from a collection of registered voters or interested volunteers in the area to ask them to vote, volunteer, attend an event or other campaign-related requests.

“I usually open my computer and log on to the different websites we use for phone-banking and just start calling people and hope someone picks up the phone,” Velakaturi said. “You’re lucky if you get an answer, especially a good one.”

Her campaign work has not always been easy. Velakaturi has experienced discouraging calls and disappointing election results over the years. She always tries to stay positive while campaigning.

“She’s always so positive no matter what the circumstances are,” Blue Valley Southwest High School senior and Davids’ campaign volunteer Reed Krewson said, “which is an increasingly important trait in a world where there is so much hate and negativity.”

Despite the many obstacles and discouragements, Velakaturi continues to work for campaigns because she believes in the value

FEATURES

of Politics of student activism and political involvement.

“We’re old enough to have responsibilities and be able to drive and stay home alone,” Velakaturi said. “Why can’t we take charge of the laws that affect us and which adults are making decisions about us?”

The campaigns she works on heavily rely on youth activism and volunteering, according to Velakaturi. Former Finance Assistant for Davids’ campaign Amanda Sharp views youth engagement as a crucial part of any campaign.

“All of the interns we had for the 2018 election cycle, especially Raj, were hard workers who had diligent work ethic and amazing ambition,” Sharp said.

“I think any young person who gets involved in the tumultuous landscape that is our political system right now possess an amazing sense of selflessness and a commitment to public service we can only hope to see mirrored in the generations ahead who are actually holding office right now.”

Velakaturi largely attributes her interest in politics to the work she does on campaigns.

She enjoys being able to see how a successful campaign functions and how laws and policies are developed.

“I can see firsthand how change and policy and all these decisions on laws are made, and I kind of get to see how the country is shaped,” Velakaturi said. “I hope to get really good experiences and and learn how I can help, and possibly learn how to be a public servant in the future.”

Along with a growing interest in public service, volunteering with campaigns has given Velakaturi a renewed sense of determination and self-assurance.

She cites learning how to talk to people she disagrees with and meeting other young people on campaigns as her reason for her tenacity.

“I think she definitely has gotten more ambition and confidence,” junior Nicole Jackson said. “She’s very more aware about the world and she knows everything that’s going on.”

Back in her plastic folding chair, Velakaturi hangs up the phone. She types the name and information of a voter she just convinced to vote for Buttigieg into the computerized system and smiles. She knows she is fighting for change, for a better future, for good. But she knows the work is never finished. She nods, punches in a new number, and lets the dial tone ring once again.

Junior Rajitha Velakaturi phone-banks with Congresswoman Sharice Davids to convince voters to vote for Davids Nov. 3, 2018. “There are a lot of laws or policies that affect us, and if our voices aren’t heard, then those policies could affect us negatively,” Velakaturi said. “But if we speak up, then at least we can say that our voice was heard.”

(Photo submitted by Rajitha Velakaturi)

FEBRUARY 2020

19

SPORTS IN BRIEF New Soccer Coach

The new varsity soccer coach, Doug McLagan, started Jan. 15. McLagan has previously coached for the Sporting Blue Valley Soccer Club and Blue Springs High School. Preparations for the spring soccer season has already began, with the team running pre-season work outs. “I’m so excited to get all the girls together for the first day of tryouts I’m looking forward to working with the girls and continuing the winning tradition at Sion,” McLagan said. (Photo by Ava Stoltz)

Junior Selected for Kearney Classic All-Tournament Team Junior Shannon Karlin was selected for the Kearney Classic All-Tournament team Jan. 20.

The award came as a result of her performance while playing in the tournament. “I didn’t enjoy having to drive all the way out to Kearney for the tournament, but I loved talking and listening to music with my teammates on the way there,” Karlin said. “I forgot they had an all tournament team so I was pretty surprised when they announced that I was chosen.” Pictured left is Karlin. (Photo by Ava Stoltz)

Cheer and Dance Nationals

Both cheer and dance competed at nationals over the weekend of Jan. 31 to Feb. 1 in Dallas, Texas and Orlando, Florida respectively. “I was excited to go one last time and see our growth,” senior Cheer Team member Rachel McRae said. Cheer placed 10th in the nation, and dance placed 13th in pom. “Nationals is such a great experience because it brings the team closer,” senior Dance Team member Libby Slaymaker, pictured left, said. “It’s by far the best week of the year.” (Photo by Ava Stoltz)

Swim and Dive Senior Night

The senior swim and dive team members were honored Jan 28. during their meet against St. Teresa’s Academy at the Red Bridge YMCA. Posters made by the underclassmen were taped up on the wall for each of the seniors. The swim team beat STA 94-92. “I loved having my senior night, it was something special I had looked forward to since being freshman,” senior swim team member Grace Parrott said. “Swimming at Sion has been a massive part of my life for the past four years, and it’s sad to say goodbye, but I’m glad to leave it on a good note.” Pictured left are seniors Bridget Schumm, Caroline Knopke, Reilly Jackoboice and Parrott. (Photo by Kaitlin Lyman)

Adjusting Her Balance Sophomore Addi Diaz shifts from home school to high school as she begins her first semester.

BY CATHERINE CRAYON REPORTER

As she walks through the halls, sophomore Addi Diaz is immersed in a whole (Photo by Catherine Crayon) new environment. First, she weeks after her surgery. Diaz lived in Okinawa, Japan for five years. Then after moving had os trigonum, an extra bone behind the ankle bone. back to the states, Diaz was Her total recovery time was homeschooled and danced 10 weeks. every day.

Although Diaz only “I’d wake up at 6:20 and joined the sophomore class have ballet classes all day at the beginning of second and three hour rehearsals at semester, she has found the night,” Diaz said. transition to be very smooth.

Even though Diaz did “The relationships with not start ballet young, she the teachers definitely made it progressed quickly and was easier,” Diaz said. “They’re all in the second highest level so nice.” of ballet only two years later.

The commute to school Diaz danced at Kansas City Ballet for five years. She then every morning and back decided to switch to a smaller home every afternoon is yet another change she school, Kansas School of has experienced since Classical Ballet. transferring.

“I realized it wasn’t the “I miss sleeping the most place for me anymore,” Diaz said. “So that’s why I decided and being able to pretty much do whatever I wanted all day,” to leave.”

Diaz said. “It’s crazy.”

Following a chronic Although Diaz is no ankle injury and surgery on Sept. 6, Diaz made the tough longer dancing, she plans to tryout for the school’s dance decision to quit ballet. team.

“Walking for the first “I met Addi during time without the boot, eight her tour of the school. I’m weeks after surgery, was so weird,” Diaz said, “The arches a Student Ambassador, so I in my foot would cramp after walked her around the school.

Turns out we sat next to five minutes.” each other in our first hour,” The slow-progressing sophomore Grace Beelman injury, which occurred in said. “She’s so creative and February 2019 and wasn’t found until June 2019, forced really sweet.”

Diaz to be bedridden for two

STORM SCHEDULE FEB 14-15

20 LE JOURNAL

BASKETBALL TOURNAMENT IN ST. LOUIS (Photo by Maggie McKinney, junior Shannon Karlin pictured)

MARCH 2

SPRING SPORTS BEGIN (Photo by Dani Rotert, junior Mikayla Gunther pictured)

MARCH 24

FIRST HOME SOCCER GAME (Photo

by Dani Rotert, junior Grace A. Riley pictured.)

SPORTS

BASKETBALLERS

C Y O

Students join a recreational basketball league to compete against friends and students from other schools.

BY PAULA SWEENY COPY EDITOR

With games on the weekends and practice once or twice during the week, the Catholic Youth Organization recreational basketball league is not a huge time commitment, and students are able to make their own teams. Many students said they joined because even if they are not good at basketball, they can still have fun and enjoy spending time with friends.

“I joined so I had a winter sport I could do,” senior Avery Kuhls of the Storm Seniors said. “My favorite part is that we don’t take it that seriously, and we have fun while playing.”

The Storm Seniors are ranked sixth out of 11 teams with a 2-3 record. From the juniors, Cougars 21 is ranked fourth out of 12, with a 3-1

record followed by Sion HS in seventh place with 2-2 and Curry on my Wayward Son is 12th place with a 0-3 record. Sophomore Grace Power plays with friends from St. Teresa’s Academy. Their team, CYO Stars, is currently in fourth place out of 11 teams with a 2-1 record.

“I like [CYO] because it isn’t completely serious,” Power said. “It’s still competitive, and it also allows you to be with your friends from other schools.”

The CYO basketball league has around 5,000 participants annually in Wyandotte and Johnson counties. Any grade is allowed to sign up and many students have made a team with their friends. Teams practice at a grade school or

Meet the teams:

gym of their choice and games are mainly played at Hocker Grove Middle School.The league has games from December to March that end in a playoff tournament and a championship game.

Teams pay a $900 fee to sign up for the league which is split between the players and then a $30 player registration fee. Uniforms are purchased separately and sell for $24 for the jersey and $11.95 for the shorts.

“It’s just simply for fun, and you’re doing it with your friends,” junior Anna McQueeny of Curry on my Wayward Son said. “Not a lot of us are incredible, and some people have never touched a basketball before now, but it’s still super fun.”

(Photos submitted by Holly Frey, Ruby Wright, Paula Sweeny and Averi Myrick)

Storm Seniors

Cougars 21

Curry on my Wayward Son

Sion HS

Dana Kalt, Meg Wilkerson, Nina Trouvé, Caroline Boessen, Caroline Knopke, Avery Kuhls, Maeve Hogg, Olivia Townsend, Logan Dixon, Kyleigh Smith, Emily Rine, Holly Frey, Gresha Burton, Reilly Jackoboice, Paula Sweeny

Kennedy Maher, Abby Vossen,Lindsey Dougherty, Ruby Wright, Katie Schudy

Mady Jenkins, Ellen McDaniel, Violet Tumlin, Hannah McGraw, Grace A. Riley, Megan Propeck, Mia Legato, Zoe Zorn, Kennedy Ruark, Lauren McDougald, Anna McQueeny

Clara Banes, Matia Ianni, Olivia Pope, Katherine Lillis, Lia Concannon, Delaney Minor, Paxton Misemer, Mikayla Gunther, Katelyn Brinkman, Addie Vance, Abbie Wagner, Mason Lewis, Bella Aquino, Averi Myrick

SWIM AND DIVE STATE QUALIFIERS

BY KATE VANKEIRSBILCK REPORTER

50 FREE (25.49)

CONSIDERATION 200 FREE (2:01.09)

DIVE AND CONSIDERATION

Senior Olivia Townsend -25.15 COMO

Senior Bridget Schumm -2:12.65 COMO

Senior Caroline Knopke -407 points Gladstone Junior Lindsey Dougherty -336 points

CONSIDERATION 50 FREE (27.29)

CONSIDERATION 100 BACK (1:08.29)

Sophomore Grace Townsend -26.75 COMO Junior Kate Conway -26.99 COMO

Sophomore Ava Albracht -1:08.41 COMO Wiewel -1:03.38 COMO

100 BREAST (1:10.99)

CONSIDERATION 100 FREE (1:00.49)

O. Townsend -1:09.51 COMO

Senior Peyton Wiewel -59.65 COMO Conway -59.54 COMO O. Townsend -58.70 Belton

200 FREE RELAY (1:45.99) O. Townsend, Schumm, G. Townsend, Conway- 1:39.55 Red Bridge

200 MEDLEY RELAY (1:58.29) Wiewel (back), O. Townsend (breast), Albract (fly), G.Townsend (free) -1:55.26 Red Bridge (Photo submitted by Sabrina Wiewel)

State qualifiers pose for a photo in the pool after their meet in Columbia, Missouri Jan. 3 and 4.

FEBRUARY 2020

21

The Mug FEATURES

Senior Elyse Makar begins the process of sculpting the once formless clay into one of her eccentric mugs. (Photo by Jenna Barackman)

22 LE JOURNAL

g MaKaR

FEATURES

Senior Elyse Makar creates pottery and other clay-based art in her free time.

BY JENNA BARACKMAN MANAGING WEB EDITOR

S

pending hours alone in a basement fashioning a lump of clay into mugs and figurines can be physically exhausting. One false move of her fingers or her tools and her clay creation is ruined. She’s learned, however, from a young age and with a long history of pottery, how to keep her

hands steady.

For senior Elyse Makar, working with clay is a stress reliever and a relaxing end of the day activity.

“I always feel really relaxed, and I just use it as a time to disassociate and make something I’m excited about,” Makar said. “Usually after a long day at work or school, it’s nice to be able to just exist on my own and do something for myself.”

Almost every night, Makar sits in her “home pottery studio” and creates mugs with monster features like teeth and spikes, planters and “ooglies,” which are clay monsters with interchangeable features.

“The monster mugs are definitely my favorite things to make,” Makar said. “They usually only

take me 30 minutes to make and none of them look the same.”

On as many Fridays as she can, Makar attends an event night hosted by KC Clay Guild in Brookside with friends, where she can use any pottery wheels and supplies for $5. Senior Peyton Wade goes with Makar when she can.

“It’s definitely a relaxing and fun time for both of us,” Wade said. “I’ll look over at her work, and it’s just amazing- she’s totally in the zone.”

Makar has been doing pottery on and off since eighth grade on her own, and has been working with clay since she was very young. Her mother, Christie Makar, enjoys seeing her work improve and watching her creatively branch out with the clay creations.

“Since Elyse was young, we have been painting pottery or making things with clay,” Christie said. “Lately she had been doing some interesting hand-building projects, which are really fun and creative.”

Makar plans to begin selling her products soon and is even considering setting up an Etsy account to sell her clay concoctions. Wade plans to assist her with this, as well as purchase products as soon as they are for sale.

“I love watching her work, and I genuinely love what she makes,” Wade said. “You don’t see a lot of mugs or planters like the kind she makes, and I think the passion she puts into it will make her a lot of money.”

Elyse's CreationS

(All photos by Jenna Barackman)

How to Make a Mug

ROLL OUT & WEDGE

BEGIN TO SHAPE

PUT CLAY ON THE WHEEL AND WET

CENTER

INDENT

SHAPE MUG TO YOUR LIKING

FEBRUARY 2020

23

A&E

Upcoming

Concerts Fitz and the Tantrums March 4 at Uptown Theater Tickets starting at $30

Lil Mosey

March 19 at The Granada Tickets starting at $59

Dan + Shay

April 9 at Sprint Center Tickets starting at $36

Zac Brown Band

April 16 at Sprint Center Tickets starting at $64

Kane Brown

May 9 at Sprint Center Tickets starting at $52

DaBaby

May 29 at Providence Medical Center Amphitheater Tickets starting at $79

24 LE JOURNAL

“Circles” is an Eternal Legacy Released over a year after his death, Mac Miller’s new album is a soul-searching self-analysis that leaves fans wishing for more.

BY MORGAN HERRIOTT SPORTS EDITOR

Mac Miller released his final album “Circles” on Jan. 17. The album is a heartfelt self-reflection that will have all fans reminiscing on his impact in the music industry. Miller passed from an accidental overdose in Sept. 2018, so the album was originally left unfinished. However, with the blessing of Miller’s family and his own persistent effort, songwriter and producer Jon Brion completed the album. Brion was originally working with Miller to finish “Circles,” and he continued to dedicate himself to fine-tune each and every song to perfection.

Miller’s final message is already making an effect worldwide, as fans across the globe chose “Circles” as Billboard’s new favorite release from this week. The album also quickly entered the top 3 on US iTunes, even outselling Eminem’s new album “Music To Be Murdered By.” Miller’s purpose in “Circles” isn’t your typical message that the media likes to address; however, the album successfully portrays that mental health has its ups and downs and that life isn’t always going to be pretty. He expresses both his times of pain and joy. His vision of survival is what helps so many people connect with the album. He conveyed a more present and honest message of what it means to be “okay,” and tells fans he’s there to “make it all better with a little music for you.”

The album does not follow suit with the rest of Miller’s more typical rap albums.

“Circles” proves to be more of a self-reflection on his life struggles that is unnerving and the raw truth. The album is drastically different from his previous music, as Miller hardly raps in the album and gives

off more of a singer-songwriter vibe. In “I Can See,” Miller sends out an emotional cry for help as he pleads “I need someone to save me, before I drive myself crazy.” The album’s opener, “Circles” is an uncanny listen for fans. The somber tune addresses Miller’s mental health cycle that he just can’t seem to break, and in the long run just continues to “end up right at the start of the line drawin’ circles.” The album continues to tell Miller’s rollercoaster of a story regarding his mental health journey.

While many of the album’s songs are on the heavier side, Miller doesn’t disappoint with the addition of songs that are more upbeat. In “That’s on Me,” Miller reveals that he wishes his life had more proper direction. He reflects on his battles with mental health as he sings “I don’t know where I’ve been lately, but I’ve been alright.” One of the most upbeat tracks in the album, titled “Complicated,” reflects on Miller’s outlook on life and how people should live their lives in the present. He questions why “life has gotta be so complicated” and pleas for listeners to live their life without worries. While much of Miller’s new release is heavy and reflects on the many struggles of mental health, some of the more upbeat tracks provide lighter alternatives.

“Circles” proves to be the end to Miller’s passage of his journey with mental health. While overall it remains a work-in-progress, fans receive one last piece of closure with the album’s perfect mix of personal reflections and upbeat melodies.

Whatever one’s opinion of the rapper’s previous works may be, Miller’s genuine talent lives on through “Circles.” The album proves to be the final message from someone who intended to keep his legacy forever, as “Circles” is the emotional silver lining of his story. Though the Instagram post that announced “Circles” worldwide claims the album is a “complicated process that has no right answer,” it’s the exact answer his fans needed.

A&E

Asian Cuisine with a Twist Newly opened in Overland Park South Korean restaurant BIBIBOP offers personalized meals for any preference.

BY ABBIE SINOW REPORTER

With customizable bowl options, BIBIBOP offers every customer a meal they are bound to enjoy. BIBIBOP opened Jan. 7 in Overland Park, offering assembly-line style South Korean cuisine.

As customers walk in, they are greeted by the voice of Irene Rabongue, the friendly manager of the Overland Park location. The modern decor and comfortable furniture offer welcoming vibes to all walking through the door. Wood tables with orange-accented chairs and white walls provide a bright and lively atmosphere, while also not overwhelming customers with too many bright colors or designs.

Employees aid in the creation of personal bowls for each customer, consisting of a base, like rice or noodles, a protein, like meat or tofu, hot toppings, like beans or bean sprouts, and cold toppings, like vegetables and eggs, as well as a

sauce, like teriyaki or sesame ginger. The employees along the assembly line know everything about the cuisine and are willing to help with any questions or concerns. The customer service was beyond remarkable as they amiably walk each customer through the process, though BIBIBOP also offers homemade drinks, including sweet green tea and passion fruit lemonade. The passion fruit lemonade is sweet with a hint of lemon, which helps cut the sweetness so it’s not overpowering. It has a tropical flavor, like a juice medley that was hand-crafted to create the best ratio of each fruit.

Priced at $7.99 per bowl, BIBIBOP offers affordable, yet filling meals. Also offered is a free side of a light and savory Miso soup that provides a perfect side to a heavier meal.

For the price, BIBIBOP delivers high quality elements to the meals. The chicken is tender and flavorful, and the vegetables are fresh and crisp.

With endless options, BIBIBOP has something for everyone. The create-your-own style similar to Chipotle provides each customer with exactly what meal they would like. Although the location on 135th just opened, other locations include Oak Park Mall and Waldo. As BIBIBOP

continues to expand across the Kansas City area, everyone is guaranteed satisfaction with personalized options.

SIMPLE AND SAVVY With locations at 505 W 75th St, Kansas City, MO and 11875 W 95th St, Overland Park, KS in addition to Corbin Park, BIBIBOP includes a simple deep brown and white theme with accents of orange. (photos by Abbie Sinow) BIBIBOPPIN’ At $7.99 per bowl, BIBIBOP offers an array of options for contents and includes a complimentary side of Miso soup.

Mercy in the Face of Injustice “Just Mercy” gracefully honors Bryan Stevenson’s best selling memoir while illustrating his fight for mercy in a corrupt criminal justice system.

BY MALEAH DOWNTON WEBSITE EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

“Mercy is just when it is rooted in hopefulness and freely given,” activist lawyer Bryan Stevenson wrote in his New York Times Bestselling memoir “Just Mercy.”

Adapted to film by director Destin Daniel Cretton, “Just Mercy” portrays one man’s resilient fight for justice in the face of systemic oppression.

With “Creed” actor Michael B. Jordan taking the lead role of Stevenson and Academy awardwinning actor Jamie Foxx playing wrongfully convicted Walter “Johnny D” McMillian, the film captures a raw depiction of this empowering story of justice, redemption and mercy.

JUST MERCY Starring Michael B. Jordan as lawyer Bryan Stevenson, “Just Mercy” came out December 25, 2019 and is currently in theaters. (Photo by MCT Campus)

“Just Mercy” challenges and teaches based on the faults that lie within the United States’ criminal justice system. The film follows the journey of a young Stevenson as he builds up his legal practice, Equal Justice Initiative, in Alabama. Taking on cases dealing with the poor and underprivileged, Stevenson encounters wrongfully convicted McMillian, a black man on death row for a murder he couldn’t have possibly committed. Through showcasing the intertwined lives and stories surrounding McMillian’s case, the film reveals authentically and beautifully the true definition of justice and mercy in a society ridden with hate.

“Just Mercy” thrives by the light the actors instill into their characters. With a star-studded cast consisting of Jordan, Foxx, Academy awardwinner Brie Larson and rapper Ice Cube’s son Oshea Jackson Jr., the film is upheld by their remarkable portrayals. Each cast member proved to be a spitting image of their real-life counterparts.

However, the greatest moments of the film are the scenes shared between Jordan and Foxx. The chemistry between the two radiated off the screen.

In these intimate moments between Stevenson and McMillian, Jordan and Foxx deliver an outstanding performance in which they elegantly communicate the intense bond between the two characters. As they share in pain, racism and hope, Jordan and Fox translate these emotions so clearly

through the screen.

In comparison to the book, the film takes all of the essential components of Stevenson’s 300-page memoir and condenses it into a refined two-hour film, all while maintaining Stevenson’s voice and message. The most notable difference between the film and the book is the role of EJI operations director Eva Ansley, played by Larson. Though an important character in the novel, her interactions with Stevenson heavily increased in the film. This change was key as it allowed for her to serve as a soundboard to the many thoughts Stevenson had narratively expressed throughout the memoir.

Earning an NAACP Image Award nomination for outstanding motion picture, “Just Mercy” is a film that is both powerful and needed. This adaptation passionately stays true to the book and the factuality of the events while offering its own artistic touches. “Just Mercy” is a must-see film in a society in dire need of justice.

As required reading for juniors in English teacher Casey Engel’s advanced placement English language and composition class, the school partnered with Rockhurst High School and St. Teresa’s Academy to offer a free screening of the film Feb. 4 at the AMC Theater in Ward Parkway.

FEBRUARY 2020

25

A&E

DIETS With the first few months of 2020 comes new diets, but are these diets actually worse for you than choosing healthier foods?

BY MADELINE HAMMETT NEWS EDITOR

DEATH TO DIETS

Diets are no fun. Giving up the food you love for slight starvation, more expensive unappetizing meals and constantly trying to convince yourself it’s worth it is never fun.

Some diets, such as the paleo diet, may take some time to get used to, but cutting out preservatives, unnecessary sugars and unhealthy additives is actually good for the body. The paleo diet can easily become a lifestyle and not a harmful one at that. Not only will it help with potential weight loss, but it will also help in creating and maintaining a truly healthy body. The keto diet, on the other hand, is not the best choice when it comes to weight loss or developing healthy eating habits.

26 LE JOURNAL

If not followed word for word the body can begin to lose strength, blood sugar, and potentially result in a health issue. The keto diet also endangers the body’s healthy cholesterol levels. Even worse than that would be choosing a juice cleanse for weight loss. This forces the body to give up what is depends to for all nutrition: food. A juice cleanse is never a good idea, often times causing more harm than good if carried on for a long period of time. The Skinny Tea Detox focuses solely on weight loss and not in a healthy way either. Overall, dieting is a personal choice, but one that should be considered wisely. Eating healthy and working out to lose weight is always the best way to go.

KETO DIET

A keto or ketogenic diet is a lowcarb, moderate protein, higher-fat diet designed to help one burn fat quickly and more effectively. It resets the body’s metabolism helping with weight loss, health, and performance, as shown in over 50 studies. The

ketogenic diet puts no limit on the intake of saturated fat or trans fats.

These fats are known to heighten the body’s bad LDL cholesterol levels and lower the body’s good HDL cholesterol levels.

PALEO DIET

This Paleo diet is less of a diet and more of a lifestyle. This diet bases itself off of eating what was available during the paleolithic era.

The main food groups eaten are lean meats, fish, fruits, vegetables, nuts,and seeds. The reasoning behind the food group choices is discordance hypothesis which states that the human body is genetically mismatched to the modern diet.

People choose this diet in an effort to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight by turning it into a lifestyle.

JUICE CLEANSE

Many people choose juice cleanses because they claim to wipe out toxins from the body resulting in weight loss, resetting the digestive system and changing the way the

body feels each day. Juice cleanses can go anywhere from three to 14 days. During the cleanse, participants must drink multiple juices a day, usually five or six, and an ample amount of water.

Some cleanses allow food such as protein balls or salads to be eaten as well which are often sold with the cleanse. Others require complete elimination of all food with the exception of a decaffeinated tea.

SKINNY TEA DETOX

The Skinny Tea Detox prides itself completely on weight loss. The listed benefits of the detox are boosting metabolism, cleansing and detoxifying the body, and reducing bloating. The detox requires the purchase of two teas, one in the morning after waking up and one at night right before bed. The detox has several meal plans recommended to go along with the teas all which include healthy foods, little carbs and not much sugar. The only point of this diet is to lose weight temporarily.

WHAT TO DO WHEN WINTER HITS YOU

S

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

Things to do in the lull of winter.

BY CATHERINE CRAYON REPORTER

Treat Yourself

A cold day is the perfect opportunity to invite some friends over, put on a face mask and watch a movie on Netflix. Taking time to catch up on sleep and chill out at home.

Catch a Film

Multiple new movies have come out this season and going to the theater makes for an easy way to spend time with friends and family. Movies like “Little Women” and “Just Mercy” have received great reviews and are sure to lift your spirits.

Lace Up

Ice skating is a fun activity to do on a cold day. Meeting some friends at the ice skating rink on a snowy afternoon is a great way to relieve stress and have some fun. The Ice at Park Place is close by and only costs $12.

Let’s Eat

Soup and chili are the perfect hearty meals to warm you up and cure those winter blues. Make an event out of it and cook with friends and family or try a new foodie hotspot like BIBIPOP (pg. 25).

Cheers

What’s winter without a hot drink to keep you toasty? Hot chocolate, coffee and chai tea lattes are essentials for keeping your hands warm and giving you a little pick-meup. These fan favorites can be found at Crow’s Coffee, Oddly Correct or your favorite cafe.

Get on Your Feet

Whether it’s a cycling class, morning yoga or your daily gym routine, getting out of the house and exercising gets your endorphins pumping and helps with that winter slump.

Get Crafty

Break out your pipe cleaners, paintbrushes and beads and hop on Pinterest to have a day of DIYs. It will make you feel productive and accomplished when you see the finished product of your masterpiece.

Explore the City

There are plenty of places to go right here in Kansas City.

Consider trying your hand at axe throwing at Blade and Timber, or get a group of friends together to try to break out of an escape room.

A&E

The Return of The

BACHELOR

ABC’s and Ken Fuch’s “The Bachelor” has returned for its 24th season and is addicting as ever. So watch it every Monday evening from 7-9.

BY GRACE HILLS REPORTER

There’s an epidemic. And it’s taking over Americans all over the country. Actually, the word “epidemic” does not encompass the obsession that plagues the world of Bachelor Nation. They provide virtually year-round mind-numbing bliss for the hopeless romantic, with “The Bachelor,” “Bachelorette” and “Bachelor in Paradise.”

Let’s focus on the show of the hour: The Bachelor season 24. This season features Peter Webber and 30 women who think they have the potential to be Mrs. Webber. Eventually, all of the potential Mrs. Webbers get eliminated until he finds “the one.” Because what reality TV couples ever break up?

This show may have to be deemed as “vivacious,” ”sexist” and “stereotypes on steroids,” and those are all completely true. Let’s just say that a high IQ and a long attention span are not needed in order to enjoy this show. But in all honesty, the ability to zone in and out of the millions of meaningless conversations is what makes “The Bachelor” so addicting. As long as you’re attentive for about 30% of the show, you’ll soon become just as invested in it as the Bachelor himself.

On to the main reason we indulge in such a pointless show: the drama. From week one, drama is erupting, and although they say this every season, it’s looking like this one is going to be the most dramatic one yet. Most of the fun lies in how everything is taken so seriously and how intense it can all get in the span of a few minutes. It’s the perfect show for someone who eats drama up, but prefers to stay out of it in their own life.

But the basis of this indulging drama is morally corrupt. Though yes, the viewers understand that “true love” can’t be found while neurotic “social media influencers” fight over Mr. God’s-gift-to-earth, the whole concept is twisted.

Forming alliances and nemeses from day one in order to end up with Mr. Right goes against every aspect of being a “grown up” and seems to bring the girls down to sneaky, high-school level pettiness and drama. Not only that, but all of the “dream” body types and expensive destinations set unrealistic expectations for future relationships.

However, one of the reasons this show is so insanely loved is because of its unrealistic expectations. The Bachelor provides a glimpse into the redefined, more realistic fantasy of “love” egged on by Disney movies. By showing the hair raising drama coupled with the stunning backdrop of Greece or Croatia, this show proves that everything is not as glitz and glamour as the princess movies made it seem.

Bachelor contestants Jenna Serrano, Maddison Prewett, Alexa Caves and the Bachelor Peter Webber are the new subjects of “The Bachelor” season 24.

(Photos used with permission from WDTV Press)

Read a Book

Catch up on your reading and grab that book that you’ve been telling yourself you were going to read and haven’t yet. Some page-turners to consider are “Testaments” by Margaret Atwood and “Educated” by Tara Westover.

FEBRUARY 2020

27

LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS

1.

Students performed in the musical “Little Shop of Horrors” at Rockhurst High School’s Rose Theatre Jan. 17-19.

3.

2.

4.

1. SOMETHING’S COMING FOR YA The three Skid Row chorus members, played by Senior Cara Hiatt, senior Lilly Denney and sophomore Tess Tappan are menacingly surrounded by the cast at the end of the first number. “The opening does a good job of setting up the show,” Tappan said. “It’s fun but also creepy.” (Photo by Kennedy Wade)

2. RAISE IT UP Senior Cara Hiatt belts out the first number of the musical, “Prologue / Little Shop of Horrors.” “Being in the Greek chorus was really fun, but also really hard because we had to sing everything in a three part harmony,” Hiatt said.

(Photo by Kennedy Wade)

3. MOTHER AND SON

5.

Senior Peyton Wade’s character Ms. Mushnik is swept off her feet by Rockhurst High School junior Jack Winters’ character Seymour at the end of their tango in which Ms. Mushnik begs to adopt Seymour. “I was really scared Jack would drop me, but he never did,” Wade said. “The tango number was a lot of fun.” (Photo by Kennedy Wade)

4. OFF TO GREENER PASTURES Sophomore Olivia Mancina’s character Audrey dies in Rockhurst junior Jack Winters’ arms after nearly being consumed by the man eating plant Audrey II during the reprise of the number “Someplace Green.” “I always approached Audrey’s death differently for each show so it would feel more natural,” Mancina said. (Photo by Kennedy Wade)

5. DANCING STARS Sophomore Olivia Mancina and Rockhurst High School junior Jack Winters dance together during bows. “Bows always felt so great after working hard during the performance,” Mancina said. (Photo by Kennedy Wade)

6. GIRL GANG

6.

28 FEBRUARY 2020

Greek chorus members, played by senior Cara Hiatt, sophomore Tess Tappan and senior Lilly Denney comfort sophomore Olivia Mancina’s character Audrey over her abusive relationship. “This experience was one of the best because the role was one of the most challenging,” Denney said. “But once we nailed it, it was the best feeling in the world.” (Photo by Kennedy Wade)