NOVEMBER 2020
Page 10-11 Art Museums and Appreciating the Power of Silence
Westminster Christian Academy
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800 NEWS CO-EDITOR IN CHIEF MAGGIE LINDSTROM, JUNIOR
CO-EDITOR IN CHIEF EMMA HARRIS, JUNIOR
CO-EDITOR - 800SPORTING MARTYBRINER, SENIOR
CO-EDITOR - 800SPORTING BROOKE HIGHMARK, JUNIOR
STAFF WRITER
STAFF WRITER
STAFF WRITER
STAFF WRITER
COLIN RING, SENIOR
EMMA SMITH, SENIOR
2 STAFF
NOLAN JONES, JUNIOR
CJ FRANCOIS, FRESHMAN
ST
TAFF
STAFF WRITER
STAFF WRITER
STAFF WRITER
STAFF WRITER
STAFF WRITER
STAFF WRITER
MOOREA ATKINS, SENIOR
KAITLYN BUTLER, JUNIOR
SAM VESTAL, JUNIOR
STAFF WRITER BEN KNISLEY , SOPHOMORE
HOPE LINAM, JUNIOR
ELLIE JOHNSON, JUNIOR
ANAGI PIERIS, SOPHOMORE
STAFF WRITER GUS DUDA, JUNIOR
STAFF WRITER
STAFF WRITER
EVAN KOHN, JUNIOR
ELLIE JONES, JUNIOR
STAFF WRITER
ANDREW CAHILL, FRESHMAN
STUDENTS SERVING STUDENTS STAFF 3
CONTENTS
FEATURE
COVID SINKS HOLLYWOOD BOX OFFICES PG. 13 FAHRENHEIT 451: PREDICTING THE FUTURE? PG. 16 AIRBUS VS. BOEING VS.. TUPOLEV? PG. 17 THE COMFORTS OF STAYING ILL PG. 18
4 CONTENTS
OPINION
STUDENTS, SPEAK UP. ADMINISTRATION, LISTEN. PG. 6 WHAT REALLY IS A CHRISTIAN EDUCATION? PG. 7 FAKE CHARACTERS INFLUENCING REAL LIFE PG. 8 NO, DON’T TREAT JESUS LIKE A FACT PG. 9
IN-DEPTH ART MUSEUMS & APPRECIATING THE POWER OF SILENCE PG. 10-11 THE SANCTITY OF LIFE PG. 12 YOUR EVERY MOVE IS BEING WATCHED PG. 14-15
SPORTS
JV VOLLEY BALL PG. 20 FIELD HOCKEY DISTRICTS PG. 21 GIRLS GOLF WENT TO STATE PG. 22 VOLLEY BALL DISTRICTS PG. 23
CONTENTS
STAFF ED
STAFF ED
WELCOMING DISCOURSE: THE ELECTION
Ephisians 4:2-5— “I urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling you have received: with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing one another in love, and with diligence to preserve the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace…” Today we tackle the subject I’m sure you’ve already heard much of: the election. What we have to say is not an opinion about who won, for we are writing it even before knowledge of an outcome, nor who we think should have won. Here, we wish not to talk politics or political figures, but people. Here are our ideas and reactions we thought may be beneficial to share, and though we are young, we ask you to listen to what we have to say- age, as we have learned over the course of these past few months and debates, does not necessarily mean a lack of or possession of knowledge. At the moment our country is facing difficult divides, and almost every American is burdened with the fear we are about to break. However, we as a country have spent so much time blaming our difference in opinions that we have neglected to remember and reflect upon two things. These two overlooked things, we believe, are integral to society. This is the first: our difference in opinion should not be looked upon in lament, but celebration, for not only is it a sign of our unique freedom and an opportunity for growth, but a moment to revel in God’s magnificence, for He has created each one of us with our own, entirely unique mind. Every person holds their own strengths, their own faults, and their own way of seeing the world. This is not a cause for discouragement, but one for awe and gratitude for ineffable beauty. Thomas Jefferson, one of the founding fathers of this very country, stated that “difference of opinion leads to enquiry, and enquiry to truth.” Differing opinions are a chance to grow, see new angles and fix problems you may not have been previously aware of. However, for this to work, all of us have to put away our pride and make space for the possibility that we might be wrong. We are all finite and fallen, and none of us alone know the right answer; we all have blindspots and weaknesses. As a group, however, we might be able to come a little closer to a right answer. Your faults are another’s strengths, and your strengths are another’s faults. Second, it is not our difference in opinion that is tearing our country apart, but how we deal with those differences. It is not a disagreement that divides us, but the people not willing to cross over the divide, even for just a moment. It is not an actual divide in opinion, but the anger towards people of different ideas, who create a divide of people. All of us, no matter if we are ecstatic, indifferent, or devastated by the outcome of this election, have to be able to love one another, to hold back our judgement and approach one another with understanding. The most important thing to remember, the idea that can keep our country together when opinions are divided, is this quote by Thomas Jefferson: “every difference of opinion does not mean a difference in principle.” The person you disagree with most politically you may find you have the most in common with. We cannot point fingers at the opposing side and scream “monster!” We cannot determine the virtue of our brothers by the man they did or did not vote for, and we cannot accuse those who differ in opinion of having no compassion, for we ourselves lose our own compassion the moment we do. The truth is that everybody, whether liberal, conservative, or somewhere in between, wants what is best for the country- everyone just has a different idea on how to get there. As the election comes to an end and a candidate is picked, we are not called as followers of God to divide ourselves over these human people. We are not called to the red or blue side, but we are to look to the Lord above; He has us in His hands. His Will will be done and we will pray for the future. He has a plan and we must trust in it. Dividing and separating ourselves about this is not necessary, the temptation to give into hate should be resisted, and we as christians should pray for whoever becomes the leader of our country. Jesus did not slander the name of Caesar, and we should follow in Jesus’s example. If the candidate you voted for won, do not boast or rub it in the faces of the grieving. If the candidate you voted for lost, have knowledge of a greater plan and God’s ultimate control. We have to take up the hands of those we disagree with. We must listen to one another without anger and speak up when the times call for it with respect. We must acknowledge our differences and love each other anyway. We must keep the opinions we hold, but see each other as one. Love is the only way we are going to get through this. We can love a person without loving their idea or everything about them. Understand that over any president, any king, any ruler, God rules above them all. In God We Trust,
Emma Harris and Maggie Lindstrom, Co-Editors-in-Cheif
STAFF EDITORIAL 5
STUDENTS, SPEAK UP. ADMINISTRATION, LISTEN. KAITLYN BUTLER Staff Writer
Phone rule, school-sanctioned iPads, dress code, homework, dances: All concerns that prompt students to roll their eyes in annoyance. In the hallways ring complaints about rules, regulations, and general school practices among peers. Yet in the presence of teachers or admin, we shut our mouths. We forsake the chance to speak up. The problem does not lie in the rules themselves, however. Our frustration does not target the tangible issues we recognize throughout the school year. The problem is rooted in what happens when such issues arise. Nothing-- nothing happens. Or that’s at least what students say. And that is exactly the point. I conducted an anonymous survey to hear the opinions of students grades 10-12 regarding student advocacy and the general attitude toward student council, rules, and administration. The overwhelming majority consider bringing their complaints to the table “a waste of time,” claiming that their concerns will continue to be swept under the rug. While they do recognize school-executed efforts to amplify students’ voices, regardless of this, they feel that administration “does not actually attempt to see students’ point of view.” One student wrote, “If I knew I was going to be taken seriously I’d mention issues as they come up, but I really don’t think I am heard.” Beyond a sense of apathy concerning advocacy, some students additionally acknowledge a sense of fear surrounding the expression of their opinions and how they will be received: a “fear of being disappointed, disregarded, and disrespected.”
of the students to see, I can assure you that there have been many changes made for the benefits of the student body.” An anonymous officer finds “weekly and monthly executive council meetings with Dr. Mosbacker” helpful in opening up communication, as well as school-wide Google form surveys that inform them of general student opinions. After all, Head of Academics Mr. Gall is both “willing and happy to meet with students and consider their ideas and suggestions,” thoughtfully taking into consideration negative responses to certain policies. And Head of Students Dr. Butler “not only appreciate[s] student advocacy but also think[s] it should be a significant part of what makes WCA what it is.” Nonetheless, she adds that “students are hesitant to speak up because they have experienced not being heard.” Even if intentions are geared towards amplifying students’ voices, that has not yet been made apparent to them. And yet it must be. So increase communication between students and administrators. Take feedback from STUCO officers seriously. Once students are aware of their influence and involvement in school policies, it is then that they will feel heard, understood, and trusted by school leaders. “Building trust and bridging the gap between the student body and the school leadership depends on how we, as administrators, are willing to reflect and take actions instead of just listening,” Dr. Butler believes. For the sake of Westminster as a whole, please emphasize the importance of student advocacy. Our voices are perhaps one of the most important contributions to who we are as a school.
So what is the source of the fear that curbs the expression of our opinions and stifles our efforts for change? Permeates the classroom atmosphere and silences our voices? The issue directs attention to the impression of the administration’s disregard for the concerns of the student body. There are two sides of the coin, however--two parties over whom fear has seized control. “I don’t think most students trust the administration. I also feel like the administration doesn’t trust most students,” says one participant. Regardless of counter-arguments, this response still speaks volume about the communication, or the lack thereof, between WCA and its student body. Because here’s the catch: behind the scenes, our student council is more than just a “glorified event planner.” Sam Vestal, junior class president, says that “while it may be hard for all Infographic by: Kaitlyn Butler
6 NEWS
WHAT REALLY IS A CHRISTIAN EDUCATION? DREW CAHILL Staff Writer
What Really is a Christian Education? Every student at WCA knows that they go to a “Christian” school, but that doesn’t mean they really know what that means. Westminster has chapel every Wednesday and teachers pray before they start class, but is that really what defines a Christian Education? Sra. Gilbert, Spanish Teacher, said that Christian Education is something that “provides a safe place for kids from christian homes to make mistakes, ask questions, and figure out who God made them to be.” Mrs. Lybarger, 9th grade health teacher, commented that “Christian Education means that we are able to learn the things of this world through our Creator’s lens.” Teachers agreed that teaching at a Christian school affects their teaching style because it means that they can freely
talk about God. They enjoy that they are able to teach from a biblical worldview. Teaching at a Christian school means that we can talk about Christ together as a class and as a school. Teaching a language is not just because you need two language credits to graduate, we learn the language so we can love others. Taking the time, energy, and effort to learn Spanish expresses to Spanish-speaking people that they matter to us because they were made in God’s image just like us. Teaching about pie charts would create an opportunity to tell students about the original reason for inventing them. Florence Nightingale invented pie charts to show her findings about death in military hospitals. She created the pie chart so that people could see how big of a problem these deaths were, and the cause of them. Being at a Christian school means that teachers treat their students differently. Teaching, or even coaching, at a Christian school means that the teachers are able to connect on a much deeper level with the students. They are able to answer questions that are hard to talk about, and that are more personal. “I am able to talk to them personally about the Bible and help them grow in their faith.” said Mr. Ottolini, 9th Grade Bible. Teachers treat students as the image bearers that they are.
What does it mean, but also what it is to have a christian education? Infographic by Maggie Lindstrom.
FEATURES 7
FAKE CHARACTERS AFFECT REAL LIFE EMMA SMITH
inappropriate shows. When they only hear about the inappropriate parts of a TV show, they will think that’s what TV is. Insecurity has a powerful hold on our lives. If someone dies in a TV show they don’t die in real life. Even once children grow older and are less worried But that’s not how children see it. When a child’s favorabout what other people think, ideas they had when ite TV character dies they die for real. they were younger stick with them. When they get older they will choose the most inappropriate TV show Children are getting progressively less and less innocent. because that’s what they think they have to do. With social media and youtube, kids get exposed to vulgar things early. Sweet innocent TV shows no longer A better solution is for children to watch TV with a interest them. They feel like the show is hiding the real parent or sibling. The parent can point out the inapproworld from them. So TV has changed to incorporate priate material. Suddenly the child will begin to recogless innocent ideas. TV normalizes the evil that children nize inappropriate content for what it is. When children have already been exposed to. know something is wrong it makes them feel uncomfortable and they want to separate themselves from So what’s the solution? it. They will start to gravitate towards more innocent shows to avoid what makes them uncomfortable. Some people say eliminate TV and social media all together. But that will never work. TV is a huge part They won’t feel embarrassed about watching more of American culture. Even if a child doesn’t watch TV innocent shows because they have watched the same they will still hear about all the shows. To make matters shows as everyone else so they’re not out of the loop. worse people like drama. Kids who don’t watch TV They like shows that are better for them. will hear about all the most dramatic parts of whatever show is most popular. Unfortunately, more dramatic Children must learn how to discern good from bad usually means most vulgar. themselves. But they need to be pointed in the right direction. If they don’t, TV will become their life’s role The only problem is that children want to fit in. Feeling model. left out of the loop makes them want to watch more
Image by: Emma Smith
8 OPINION
NO, DON’T TREAT JESUS LIKE A FACT
KAITLYN BUTLER Staff Writer
John 3:16 says, “For God so loved the world that…” Now finish the sentence. At Westminster, after all, nearly everyone can. Jesus died for our sins and rose again. Obey the Ten Commandments. Love your enemies. But how many students actually mean what they recite?
connect the dots themselves. They will only see the world through the Christian lens if they have personally committed to looking through it.
Consider the following scenario: the Bible teacher walks into the classroom and says, “I’m an atheist; explain to me why I shouldn’t be.” It would challenge students to draw not only from external sources and a foundation of biblical knowledge but also from their own personal This is not a measure of morality or godliness. It does, experiences. To test the foundation of their beliefs. To however, reveal the dangers of navigating a Christian make their faith their own and choose for themselves education. Students agree that our Bible classes arguably which lens from which they view the world. handle theology as any other subject—prioritizing tests, grades, and regurgitation at the expense of hands-on If the experience of Christ is limited to objective, deexperience, curiosity, personal engagement, and passion- tached knowledge, we have missed how Jesus makes ate inquiry. himself known to us. Personally. Infinitely. And a Westminster’s goal is to “effectively help students discover, embrace, and integrate a biblical view of the world into every aspect of their lives.” But strictly memorizing notes that present the Bible and its author as test material does not cultivate a biblical worldview. In fact, it’s perhaps quite the opposite. It represses and discourages the faculties of intellect that not only drive our pursuit and acquisition of knowledge but comprise the foundation of the Christian experience.
personal knowledge of God requires us to take responsibility of our faith.
Jesus does not ask for a perfect recollection of certain verses—He does not ask for a perfect theological understanding. Christian professor of philosophy Esther Meek writes, Freshman Bible teacher Mr. Burkey acknowledges the “Already convertchallenges of integrating Bible classes into an academic ed Christians are curriculum. Of course biblical literacy is a prerequisite still coming to for hands-on learning, but “when the class becomes only know God. This is facts and information, we miss the message behind the an epistemic act in truths we are learning.” He concludes that the founda- process. The betion of a certain topic, perhaps by note-taking, should liever’s experience fuel upcoming discussions and applications in which is still, profoundly, students are actively involved. ‘not yet’” (186). Illustrated by Kaitlyn Butler
To “suppress exploration and questions” is arguably to It is only then, when a student personally commits to discourage the development of an authentic knowledge the continuous act of knowing Jesus, that a biblical worlof Jesus. As Mr. Burkey says, “we believe when you dview is cultivated. Not by a measurement of how well really study the world around us, Christianity offers the same student accurately recalled certain test materimeaningful answers”—answers that we believe point to al or repeats by habit Christian principles. Christ because of our already established commitment to the Christian theology. By all means hand students a lens. It is up to them Our primary goal, then, should be to present students with the necessary resources and aid so that they may
whether or not they will choose to see through it.
IN-DEPTH 9
ART MUSUEMS AND APPRECIATING THE POWER OF SILENCE MOOREA ATKINS Staff Writer
Everywhere you look there is something that demands your attention. Whether that be your phone, your friends, or your pending homework assignments, we’re constantly distracted by Snapchats, YouTube videos, and texts from our friends that we’ve forgotten how to be silent and think. I believe art museums are great spaces to do just that, even though most would shrug the idea off as boring and useless. Art museums capture the stories of history and life, and the beauty and pain that comes from it. The problem with being bored in an art museum isn’t the museum’s fault: it’s our inability to be comfortable with our thoughts. Most art museums are very quiet. There’s no music, no loud sounds, just you, the art, and silence. It’s often unsettling as we are used to the constant sound of noise. It’s almost physically uncomfortable how walking into a gallery makes you feel like you’re in another world. This sense of entering into another world can be scary, or boring to others. With nothing but the art to catch your attention, many say art is boring because it’s staring at dried paint. While that’s technically true, it’s not the substance but the content that matters. Many pieces require you to engage with it, visually or intellectually. So what does that mean to someone who doesn’t regularly look art art? Well, ask questions. What am I seeing? What does this mean? Why did they choose those colors? Why are An interpretation of how teens are constantly distracted by technology, leaving them there random shapes? What story is no time to be reflective.“21st Century American Gothic” Painting by Moorea Atkins the artist telling through shape, color, and composition? What are they trying to say? Do I agree with the artist’s point of view? What are they challenging you
10 NEWS
ving them Atkins
Ask questions. What are you seeing? What is the artist trying to say? “Modern Worship” Painting by Moorea Atkins aren’t making an effort to have fun or learn. Don’t expect to be bored when entering an art gallery, expect the unexpectThese questions are impossible to answer in a crowded busy ed. Expect to learn something through the art, whether that street. While some say that museums lack creative engage- be about history and the struggle of mankind, or how you ment, the opposite is true. The silence in the museums gives should not paint cows. you time to slow down and reflect. Good art is controversial and powerful, and sometimes all you can do is sit there and The next time you’re dragged to an art museum with your family or friends, remember that they are only boring if you stare. make them boring. Learn to appreciate how to sit in silence (and not reach for your phone) and be comfortable with your The problem with art museums is not the institution as some people claim. The problem is the practice of being in thoughts. Close Instagram, stop that Youtube video, and tell your friends you’re going AFK for a bit. Maybe you’ll learn solitude. Nowadays, it’s frowned upon to be alone with your thoughts. With instant entertainment at our fingertips something new about yourself or the world around us. Or maybe, just maybe, you’ll see that art is a force that makes in the form of smartphones, the practice of being bored is non existent. Boredom is where some of the best ideas and the world go round. creative innovations come from. Why do you think so many artists and writers take months off to go into the middle of nowhere to simply be alone with their thoughts? to think about?
Most situations in life are give and take. You’re not going to get anything out of an art museum (or any museum) if you
NEWS 11
THE SANCTITY OF HUMAN LIFE IS NOT MERELY A TOPIC FOR DISCUSSION ANAGI PIERIS
stroll around the nearby Trincomalee Lagoon. They picked their way across as usual. Suddenly, they were stopped in *disclaimer names in this story have been changed for safety their tracks by a horrifying discovery. It was half-sticking out reasons* of the pebbly shores. From his vantage point, my dad could see it was white, round, and hard. If I didn’t know better, I would probably think that is —“It’s a human skull!” said his All human beings harbor inherent value, regardless of who they were or what they did. Early in his faith, my father Shan- companion, bending down and nudging the spherical object tha Pieris—a native of Sri Lanka during the thirty-seven-year from the debris with his foot. long civil war—faced the dilemma of human worth On second thought, my father realized the find might not be All human beings at its most basic form. For so far-fetched after all. His mind inexorably turned towards those of us who are bless- the rumors, rumors, rumors. Whispers of the militia frequenting harbor inherent to live in a country that the location...rebels disappearing...sinking...never to be seen value, regardless ed is not fractured by civil again. “We were not mistaken. There was no denying it was a of who they were war, the sanctity of human human skull, and there was no denying that, in all probability, or what they did. life is still fundamentally the person had not died of natural causes,” my dad remarked. threatened, though the tactics may have changed. While Dad was reflecting on the implications, his friend straightened from the ground and announced: “It must have a October 1996. It was a record breaking year for blizzards in name. Let’s call him Sid. Dad agreed, saying,“This isn’t right,” Washington, advancements in technology, and upheaval in the and “the skull should have a proper burial because he/she was Royal Family of England. Sri Lanka was in the middle of a civil once a human being and the dead have no ethnicity” Then war, with Colombo, the capital city, gripped by the destruction and there, the two men fetched a shovel, returned to the spot, of two warring factions: the Tamil terrorists and the Sinhala and dug a hole for the deceased person’s final resting place. federal agents. Ethnic Tamils are mostly Hindus; the native In retrospect, my father admits that he would do the same Sinhalese are mostly Buddhists. Moreover, the Sinhalese out- thing over again, “The name itself doesn’t matter. But the fact number the Tamil, though for a time Tamils were dispropor- that we named it at all makes the skull more real, an actual tionately represented in government, educational institutions human being which used to exist,” said my father. “We had and other public sectors. The tensions escalated with the 1983 humanized the dead. If it had been up to us alone, Mr. Wilson race riots, and although they had certainly been simmering be- and I would not have put ourselves on the line. There is only hind the scenes years before, in the end, both sides committed one explanation that war atrocities in the ensuing struggle for power. can possibly account We recognized for our counterintuitive ognized Meanwhile, Shantha Pieris was working in the war zone. He actions. We rec- God’s image imGod’s Image was not yet married, but he had made the choice to invite printed on every imprinted person, Christ into his life and was in the process of discovering how on every single single person. whether they were those beliefs should extend into his daily life. Sooner than male anyone expected, both his faith and instincts for self-preserva- young or old, Tamil tion would be severely tested by the harrowing circumstance or female, or Singhalese, Christian of wartime. or nonChristian.” At the time, my father, a civilian Sinhalese, pioneered a totally unheard of method of reconciliation, acting as a project man- Especially in the middle of a civil war, the ideology was radical. Dad’s companion, Mr. Wilson*, was a foreigner who ager over construction of houses for Sri Lankans (primarily Tamils) recently displaced by the civil war. There in the East- remained in Sri Lanka. Yet Dad, having grown up in Sri Lanka, ern Province—a de facto operating base of the terrorists—my was well-acquainted with potential repercussions. By going dad went about actually living among the civilian Tamils rath- out of his way for someone who was already dead, my father knew there could be swift consequences for himself and his er than in the army camps of the Sinhalese military. family. Occasionally my father was accustomed to join a friend to
staff writer
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12 FEATURES
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Again, my father is a Sinhalese, making him a countryman to the majority Sinhalese government, yet a perceived threat to the rebels, who were known as the Tamil Tigers. History is written by the victors, but at that time, the future was still uncertain.
were atrocities committed by the government against Tamil civilians as well. Essentially, war crimes were committed by both sides. The active parties placed any weapon-carrying citizen—innocent or not—under close surveillance; civilians of all sides lived in daily fear for their loved ones. After the war, many would wonder: Could there have been another way? The final estimate of casualties, whether 35,000 or The next day, the pair took their customary walks around 100,000, is still debated. However, even one death is one the lagoon again. Once more, they found a skull - whom too many...While the conflict was still ongoing, survivors like they named Sam- dredged up from the depths of the lagoon. The two men looked at each other. Now, to find a sin- my father and his friend found themselves grappling with the gle skull was one thing, but to find another one, in the same reality of how and to what extent Christians should respond to such mind-numbing carnage of the 'enemy”. place, so soon afterwards was something else entirely. What next? Of course the find had to be reported to the authorities. Usually, one would expect even a single discovery for detectives and police to converge upon it immediately, but in Sri Lanka, the criminal justice system was equivalent to a sieve: riddled with holes as the ongoing civil war took precedence. Considering the times, few citizens ventured to flag the authorities and bring attention to themselves. Still, at Mr. Wilson’s insistence, Dad accompanied him to the local police station.
The human body is clearly not meant for immortality. Telomeres on the ends of DNA degrade incrementally after every cell replication. Clearly, death is built into our system—built into our very cells—yet we as a whole shy away from death. If my dad could stick his neck out for a human being who is no longer living, how much more should we cherish those who are still alive? Westminster, let us not allow anything so drastic as a civil war to bring us to our knees and finally recognize the intrinsic worth of every human being.
Right away, the officials observed that Mr. Wilson was a foreigner. It was like a switch had been flipped. The men were hosted in a nice room, served refreshments, and profusely thanked for the report: “Don’t worry sirs, we’ll look into the matter and get to the bottom of this.” Within the hour, some officers trekked to the lagoon and took the bones into custody. They said the police precinct would look into the matter, but Dad knew better: “Of course they were not about to go investigate the bones! They were playing the part because Mr. Wilson was present and they were worried about bad publicity in the West. Finding bones was very suspicious and no doubt they would come to the same conclusion we did.” Soon Mr. Wilson finished his business in Sri Lanka and left the country. However, Dad—still in the area— received summons to attend a judicial inquiry into Sam and Sid’s cause of death. Despite everything, it seemed the worst had come to pass. For one, the issue had moved from a philosophical question to a concrete threat. Rather than just recounting the story, Dad wrestled with the very real fear that he would soon become a part of it. Judicial inquiries into unnatural deaths during war time were not treated as seriously as during peacetime, when such cases were peremptorily dealt with. People who raised inconvenient questions also sometimes disappeared...Dad strongly suspected he would not be treated as well as Mr. Wilson in this regard. My father, though a lawyer, ignored the summons, and the authorities were quite happy to let the matter drop. Shantha, a Sinhalese, was a trailblazer for treating both The terrorists wickedly targeted Sinhalese civilians and there the dead and the living with respect. Photo by: Anagi Pieris
FEATURES 13
raise your hand. But we’ll make this example situation the best it can possibly be: luckily, you know the answer, so for the most part it’s okay, right? Wrong again. Your mind launches into a full panic and wipes your memory like it’s a computer with a virus. You have three choices: stay completely silent, stutter out a response that doesn’t make any sense, or fill the awkward silence with an ‘ummm’. You will regret all of them. Your face will turn bright red, everyone will notice, everyone will think you’re stupid, and everyone will and anxiety of being judged, and everyone is a potential shark circling their scrutinize you. Most likely, the teacher prey. To clarify, having Social Anxiety will try to help and reword the question, but it doesn’t matter; your mind is does not mean you think the worst of people, it means you think the worst of already so crammed with self-contempt yourself. As a person who has suffered and hyper awareness of every single person’s facial expression, analyzing from social anxiety as long as she can them for any sign of judgement or disremember, here’s some insight into what it’s actually like to live with SAD: gust, that you can’t comprehend a single word the teacher is saying. It only makes it worse, more humiliating, and Every time you open your mouth, you for the rest of class you’ve completely set yourself up for a million different shut down. failures and a million different embarrassments. One single mistake will linger in your mind for months, maybe You’re walking past people and become hyper aware of the way you’re even years. Every “thank you” when someone opens the door for you can be walking. You don’t know how a person so scary it doesn’t even come out when could possibly judge you for the way you try. You open your mouth and noth- you walk, but anxiety doesn’t care and ing happens. It’s too late now. They’re you begin to overthink it anyway. Yes, already gone. They think you’re a jerk- that’s right: you overthink walking. you just know it. You start to dread en- Nobody’s even paying attention to you, but because of this now weird, uneven tering doors, knowing the anxiety that way you’ve started to walk due to your will ensue the experience. You wish hyper self consciousness, you know people wouldn’t open doors for you. you’re at a higher chance of tripping. This only increases your anxiety. There has not been one report card in your whole life that didn’t say “doesn’t Meanwhile, you’re worried they think participate enough.” ‘Yeah, no kidding,’ you’re drunk. you think to yourself. How are you No matter how many compliments you supposed to raise your hand when you receive, you still feel the same way: have social anxiety? Your heart starts like you’re inferior in pretty much to beat a million miles per hour, your every way, that people are annoyed hands shake and your voice audibly by you. There’s maybe not even a real trembles (which makes the situation reason to believe your own cruel words entirely worse), breathing becomes and internal dialogues of self lamentgradually more difficult as it feels like ing. It’s just ingrained in you, almost an elephant is sitting on your chest. as if it’s part of your personality. In this regard, social anxiety is akin to If that’s what it feels like when you choose to raise your hand, one can only wearing a virtual reality headset: your reality isn’t reality at all, but a twisted imagine what it’s like when a teacher perception you can’t escape. Its trigger calls on you in class when you don’t is simply being in the same room as
YOUR EVERY MOVE IS BEING WATCHED.
The everyday struggles of Social Anxiety Disorder EMMA HARRIS Co-EditorIn Chief
Your teacher forgot to give you a sheet when they were passing them out. It will only take a second to point out their mistake and ask for one. Not a big deal, right? Wrong. It’s a huge deal- at least to us. Your heart quickens, your breath shortens. It’s not a big deal. Just ask. You need one to take notes, which you need to study, which you need to do in order to become successful and achieve your goals and ambitions. But you just can’t do it, spiraling into these thoughts and a whirlwind of emotions. You’ve finally mustered up the courage, but it’s been five whole minutes since the papers were handed out: what will the teacher think? You know they’re going to interrogate you about why you waited so long, and when they do your face is going to be bright red. This isn’t being shy, this isn’t being ‘introverted’. This is social anxiety. According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, 6.8% of the US population is currently diagnosed with social anxiety. Unfortunately, the very nature of social anxiety means people who suffer from it actually reach out to get a diagnosis and help, meaning this number is lower than the actual reality. Social anxiety disorder- abbreviated to SAD, in a bitter humor- is, also unfortunately, understated and described in a manner that doesn’t accurately depict what it’s like. Here’s what social anxiety isn’t: it isn’t just shyness. It’s like self-consciousness on steroids. Every move you make, every step you take, people are watching you, judging you. You are drowning in the intense fear
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someone, an unavoidable thing. This someone could even be a best friend, someone you know will love you no matter what mistakes you make. But it isn’t even just about making a mistake either- it’s simply about existing as a human being and knowing not everyone will like you, torturing yourself with repetitive and unrelinquishing thoughts about being an annoyance or weak or stupid or rude or any other negative trait you could possibly have.
from living, social interaction being a necessity, but a terrifying nightmare. It’s also no surprise that this condition often leads to isolation and the development of depression. SAD is arguably the most self-sabotaging disorder, for not only do you drown in your own constant self-criticism, but the enveloping fear of being judged and rejected makes opening up and talking about it, the best way to get better, extremely and utterly terrifying.
When you have social anxiety, the simplest tasks take an immense amount of courage. It’s no surprise that it can interfere with your whole life and keep you
Nothing I just described is an exaggeration- without medicine, and even with medication if it’s a bad day, this is my reality. Sadly, many people suffer
from the same reality without realizing it isn’t normal, being called ‘shy’, and they continue to miss out on their own lives due to an intense fear of rejection, humiliation, and negative evaluation. If you feel the same way and can relate to this article, reach out to someone and get professional help- this doesn’t have to be reality. If you’re a loved one of someone with SAD, you can try to put yourself in their shoes by actually taking tests to see if you have it. I hope this was helpful for gaining insight into what it’s really like living with the debilitating disorder Social Anxiety.
“When you have social anxiety, the simplest tasks take an immense amount of courage.”
Every move you make, every step you take, people are watching you, judging you.. Illustration by: Emma Harris
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FAHRENHEIT 451 : PREDICTING THE FUTURE? ELLIE JOHNSON Staff Writer
Written by Ray Bradbury in 1953, Fahrenheit 451 Hate speech. Riots. Rise in technology. In 2020, differ- cautioned a distant future where opinions, conflicting ideas, and discrimination against minorities led to the ence of opinion and our willingness to express ouroutlawing of books and the successful effort to comselves drives our society. Many are quick to say “I’m placify the population. Not wanting strife or anyone to entitled to my opinion” or “Hey, freedom of speech” feel uncomfortable by what others had to say, it was when starting an argument. It seems like malice and made illegal to cause such feelings. This society, the hate have been corrupting America for several years, outcome of a way of life similar to our own in 2020, and it is only on the rise. However, while the older generations like Baby Boomers and Generation X take is slowly coming together as Bradbury predicted many pride in their ability to argue, a large portion of Millen- years ago. If these feelings of fear of opinion persist, nials and Generation Z think differently. United States we could be marching into a future much like in FahrSenator Ben Sasse said at a senate hearing with Mark enheit 451. Zuckerberg, Facebook CEO, “Forty percent of AmerIn addition, the idea of technology overcoming indeicans under age 35 tell pollsters they think the First Amendment is dangerous because you might use your pendence is prevalent in the novel as it is in 2020. freedom to say something that hurts somebody else’s Technology seems to rule over the people in the novel, feelings.” What would happen if this hallmark of Amer- and they have entire rooms in their homes dedicated to screens and earbud-like devices constantly pumping ican life, freedom of speech, was taken away? words into their heads. In comparison, Christo Petrov, writer for Tech Jury, said, “78% of Americans are familiar with virtual reality” and a report by Strategy Analytics said that “Apple has sold nearly 60 million sets of airpods in 2019 alone.” Detail after detail that Bradbury writes about this dystopian world is becoming more and more applicable to life today. In order to interpret and understand what is happening in the world around you today, Fahrenheit 451 is a fantastic read to turn to. Bradbury’s precise predictions were spot on and he dove into the heart of the importance of the First Amendment and the dangers of the overuse of technology.
Illustration by: Ellie Johnson
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AIRBUS VS BOEING VS…. TUPOLEV? CJ FRANCOIS Staff Writer Airbus is the biggest aircraft manufacturer in the world. They are known for building some of the most technologically advanced aircraft ever built. But, Airbus was not always known for this. Airbus was founded by Roger Béteille, Felix Kracht, Henri Zeigler, and Franz Josef Strauss in 1970. Their first plane, the A300 was launched in 1972. No one had ever seen a plane as futuristic as the A300. Immediately after it was introduced, there were many requests to buy the A300. The rest is history, as Airbus came out with the A310 in 1982, the A320 in 1988, the A340 in 1993, the A330 and A321 in 1994, the A318 in 2002, the A380 in 2007, the A350 in 2015, and the A220 in 2016. The A380 is the world’s largest passenger jet, being able to carry over 850 people. The plane is 239 feet long and can travel 9200 miles on a single load of fuel. They also came out with a few cargo planes, based off some of the passenger jets. While many aircraft companies focus on the present, Airbus looks at the future.
ple, something regular airplanes couldn’t do. The 707 came out and was an instant success. Throughout the years, Boeing created several very popular planes like the 727, 737, 747, 757, 767, 777, and 787. The 747 was the first jumbo jet. Introduced in 1969, this aircraft was the first one to have an upper level, as all planes had only one level. The 747 changed how we traveled forever.
Now, comes Tupolev. So what is Tupolev? Well, it’s a large Russian aircraft company, started in 1922 by Andrei Tupolev. Tupolev manufactured small military planes, until the 1950s, when they decided to get into the passenger aircraft industry. While the planes they manufactured were air worthy, they were not even close to being as good as Airbus. Many crashes, faults, and other issues have happened over the years. This is due to Tupolevs net worth of 3 billion dollars. While this may sound like a lot of money, this is nothing compared to Boeing or Airbus, causing Tupolev to use cost cutting Boeing is the 2nd biggest aircraft manufacturer, behind on all of their aircraft. Instead of focusing on safety, Airbus. Boeing is known for making the first long range Tupolev focuses on how cheap a plane can be made. passenger jet, but like Airbus, they didn’t start out this Another problem is the customers. Tupolev only sells way. Boeing was started in 1916 by William Boeing. their aircraft to communist countries like China, Cuba, Boeing built a number of small planes until 1958 when North Korea, and Russia of course. None of the airlines Boeing changed forever. Boeing had a vision: to create a from other countries have any interest in a plane that plane that could fly a long distance and hold lots of peo- may or may not make it to a destination.
Infographic by: Emma Smith
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THE COMFORT OF STAYING ILL LAUREN BORCHELT Staff Writer 15 year old in the spring of 2020 ends up in the intensive care unit in a life threatening situation, all because of the fear of catching the Coronavirus. It was April of 2020, and during the early stages of the Coronavirus pandemic, many doctors and patients were so fearful of the pandemic, they were avoiding treatment for preexisting conditions and health issues that require monitoring and treatment. My doctors were aware of the tenuous nature of my condition and were monitoring me via phone and daily charting via email. Doctors told me to continue my home treatments and regimens in the hope my declining medical condition would improve, yet, as the week progressed my condition only declined. We traveled to urgent care for labs and fluids, and they immediately called an ambulance to transport me to the hospital as my labs and heart monitorings were considered critical, and my health suddenly became a life or death situation. While we worked so hard to keep away from the hospital since catching the Coronavirus could be deadly to people with preexisting conditions, it ended up almost killing me as I did not get the care I needed in order to survive. When we arrived at the hospital, a crash team escorted me to the Intensive Care Unit for extensive monitoring and treatment, as my potassium level was only 1.5. A normal potassium level should be 3, and anything under 2 can kill you. While being careful during the pandemic is the most important thing, it
Photo by: Lauren Borchelt
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is also important for patients to listen to their bodies, and seek medical care when needed. We were told we would be comforted at home knowing I was safe from the pandemic, but in reality, the “comfort� of staying ill, truly ended up putting me in a scary situation far from comfortable. During the pandemic, many healthcare professionals are advising people to stay away from hospitals, surgery centers, and any other medical buildings, as the risk of catching the Coronavirus is greatly increased where the patients are. While this is important, many do not think of the serious things that can happen in this situation and how much it affects their lives. For example, people who need surgeries are being told to wait until it is safe, even though they greatly need surgery. Patients are being told to stay home during life threatening situations. The global pandemic is proving to create difficult and sometimes deadly situations, some far worse than had the patient been exposed to the virus itself. Many people choose to ignore this fact, because they look at the virus as the most deadly thing at the time, not thinking about the consequences many other people face because of the spread of the virus. There are so many people in a similar medical situation, not receiving the care they need, and being told they are safer in the comfort of their own homes than in the hospital being exposed to the virus. While yes, this is true and important to reduce the people exposed to the virus, it is also critically important to remember that some people are at a greater risk to stay home and postpone medical treatment or surgery. So while limiting the people exposed to the CoronaVirus is extremely important and necessary to reduce the spread of the virus, there are many other sides to the story that can matter more than an attempt to prevent the spread.
Westminster Christian Academy
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GIRLS VOLLEYBALL COMES UP SHORT “They were one of two teams that had beat us during the regular season, but we were very fired up to play them again. After the first set I really thought we were going to The Westminster volleyball team started off strong in this take home that first place plaque. But unfortunately after year’s district playoff tournament. Listed as the two seed, a long battle, we took second place,” said Hailey Pritchett, they started off with a “bye”—bypassing the first round—and junior. went on to dominate Ursuline Academy in the semifinals, winning three consecutive sets. Although the five matches against Viz were competitive, the team recognized a few mistakes that contributed to the loss. Unfortunately, the team fell to Visitation in the next and final round of districts by a score of three sets to two. Despite the “I saw that we were playing really tight on the court for loss, however, the girls gave Viz a run for their money up some parts and not to our full potential,” said Volding. until the very last point of the fifth and final match.
STAFF WRITER BY HOPE LINAM
The team will be losing seniors Elsie Payne and Emma Vold“We were all expecting a district championship that night. We ing. Often, when a team loses players, the dynamic noticecame out on fire winning our first set 25-16, but just got lost ably shifts. However, the rest of the team is proud of their in the chaos in our other sets,” said Emma Volding, senior. accomplishments throughout the adversity of COVID-19 and is looking forward to next season. The hardest part about this loss for the girls was their false anticipation of a win. So, when their hopes and expectations “There are a lot of talented players on the team and while I died, the loss was even more heart-wrenching for the team. wish that we would have done better and won, I am excited to see how they play in the future,” said Volding.
Westminster defeats Ladue, winning all three sets. Photo by: Gus Duda
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UNDEFEATED
The junior varsity volleyball team uses team chemistry and positive attitudes to finish the season 10-0.
STAFF WRITER BY NOLAN JONES
This year, the JV volleyball team made the best of their short Team camaraderie on junior varsity teams is often rare due schedule. They ended their season completely undefeated in to the short time period they have together; they also have to ten games, never losing a single set. account for players participating on both the JV and varsity teams. True team chemistry is something that a lot of varsity teams struggle to find or fail to emphasize. However, this This impressive team was led by captains Kylie Robertson, year’s JV squad was able to develop this aspect to its full exsophomore, and Lexi Frazier, freshman. tent in a very quick amount of time. Specifically, they shared numerous inside jokes with one another that constantly The team took a positive approach to attacking their short lightened the mood in a practice or game. season. “I think what led to our success was how positive we were even if we weren’t doing as well as we wanted to do,” said Frazier.
“I think that there was something special about our team chemistry,” said Frazier.
The program is looking promising with a strong showing of Uplifting attitudes are always necessary in sports, but they are underclassmen on the varsity team as well as on the undeespecially vital this season amongst the adversity of playing feated junior varsity team. Having these aspects of positive attitudes and strong team chemistry on the JV team will sports during a global pandemic. certainly translate into promising varsity seasons in the next couple of years.
JV Volleyball celebrates an undefeated season. Photo courtesy of Kelly Gingerich
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“ALL IN” TILL THE END The field hockey team falls in District playoffs.
CO-EDITER BROOKE HIGHMARK After a very competitive year, the Westminster field hockey season came to a close after losing in the round of sixteen to one of the best teams in the area by a score of six to two. Although this loss to Lafayette was disappointing, the Cats, led by Coach Nancy Schmer, are proud of their accomplishments and ended the season with a record of six wins and four losses. The team’s theme this year was “All In.” Even though a lot of the girls did not think they would have a season, this theme inspired them to continue working hard and give 100% at all The team huddles together for a picture before a game. times. Courtesy of Nancy Schmer “Our common goal to play as one and play for Christ especially tested us throughout the circumstances to be fully comleaderboards in the area. Mia Scheulen, freshman, is currentmitted and dedicated to our team and our season,” said KK ly ranked fourth in St. Louis scoring leaders with a total of Pruett, junior. nine goals and eleven assists. Ellie Callier, senior, is ranked tenth with nine goals and two assists, and KK Pruett, junior, is ranked seventeenth with six goals and three assists. Another dominant player on the leaderboards is Katie Huang, junior goalie. Huang is ranked second in saves with a total of seventy, fifteenth in solo shutouts with two, and sixteenth in save percentage with 78%. In district play, the Cats started off strong in the round of thirty-two, defeating Oakville three to zero. However, the next round loss to Lafayette drew their season to a close. Two of their largest wins of the season were a seven to zero win against Webster and a six to zero defeat of Lutheran South.
The field hockey players celebrate Grace Clement, Ellie Callier, and Abby Sickels on senior night. Courtesy of Nancy Schmer One of the most unique features about the field hockey team is their diversity in age. The team contains five seniors, six juniors, three sophomores, and three freshmen. This rare balance makes the future look promising, as many of the young players will return next season with experience and chemistry already under their belts. Westminster certainly made an appearance on the statistics
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Even with the disappointing ending, the field hockey team does not have any regrets. The loss has motivated and made them excited for seasons to come where they will be able show off their unique talent and potential. “It’s sad to see the seniors leave, but the legacy they left behind will be remembered forever,” said Pruett.
GIRLS GOLF MAKES PRESENCE KNOWN AT STATE TOUTOURNAMENT STAFF WRITER SAM VESTAL
This year, Westminster placed third overall in the district tournament as a team with a score of 381. While there was no sectional tournament this year due to COVID-19, the top 18 individuals were still able to qualify for state and play in the individual tournament at Meadow Lake Acres Country Club.
Johnson put together two sub-80 rounds to finish on the podium. With a score of 79 on Monday and 78 on Tuesday, her final score included an eagle to shoot a 157 for the tournament.
“While the conditions were comewhat hard to navigate, I was stll able to put up a good score when it mattered most,”The conditions at the state golf tournament in New Bloom- said Johnson. field, MO were less than ideal. Cold, wet conditions made for an interesting two day, 36 hole event at Meadow Lake Although the conditions and the circumstances were anything Acres Country Club, just north of Jefferson City. With rain but ideal, the Westminster Wildcats still made their presence early in the day and wind howling throughout, Ellie John- known at the state tournament. Even though the girls golf son, junior, still performed well and placed high on the team is losing one of their senior leaders, the future of the leaderboard. team is still bright for the years to come. This is not the first year that the weather has affected the state golfers. In fact, it has been worse in the past three years. Regardless, Johnson put up some of her best scores of the year, finishing fifth out of more than 75 athletes.
Johnon watches her drive find the middle of the fairway. Courtesy of Corey Snyder.
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WESTMINSTER CROSS COUNTRY PROGRAM TAKES THE SPOTLIGHT! FOUR GIRLS QUALIFY FOR STATE WHILE BOYS’ PAST SUCCESS BRINGS ADVERSITY WITH CLASS MOVEMENT.
STAFF WRITER COLIN RING
When the Westminster girls cross country team ran in districts on Friday, October 30th, many of them had never raced in a postseason meet before then. Despite their lack of experience, they ran exceptionally well, as Sabrina Holohan, freshman, finished ninth, Kate Van Zee, sophomore, finished tenth, Annessa Shively, senior, placed eleventh, and Kharis Perona, junior, placed fifteenth. All of these girls individually qualified for the Class 3 state meet.
32nd, Thomas Gorline, senior, finished 41st, and Andrew Gorline, freshman, rounded out the top five in 57th.
“I think the race went really well. Everyone worked so hard and left everything on the course. Sabrina and Kate really stepped up and have been pushing me and the rest of the team to be faster all season. I’m really proud of the whole team and super excited to see how we do at state,” said Shively. The girls almost qualified as a team as well, missing out by a margin of only four points. With only one senior in the top fve (Shively), the future for the girls team looks bright. “We thought this was going to be a rebuilding year, but instead the girls team doubled in size and competed really well all season! At the district meet, it was obvious we were in a position to be one of the top two teams to qualify for state, but it was going to be close. It was also obvious that we were going to have 3-4 individual runners qualify for state! Well, as a team we missed qualifying for state by only 4 points! We scored 63 points, placing 3rd while the 2nd place team scored 59 points. It was such a close race that gives us hope for great things to come next season!,” said Coach Nile Heefner. Likewise, the boys team has faced a lot of adversity over the past few months. After placing fifth in Class 3 last year, the boys returned all of their top five runners in hopes of finally bringing home a state championship. Instead, due to their success, they were moved all the way to Class 5 amongst the biggest schools in Missouri. To top it all off, the district they were placed in was one of the hardest ones in the state.
Sabrina Holohan. Kate Van Zee. Kharis Perona, and Annessa Shively pose with their All-District Medals. Courtesy of: Nile Heefner
“The course was definitely not ideal due to the muddy and wet conditions, but I’m still glad that the team and I were able to participate among some of the best runners in the state and prove that we were a force to be reckoned with,” said Turley. Despite one of their top runners, Luke Beachy, junior, suffering an injury mid-race and Connor Venneman, sophomore not running because of an injury, the boys still managed to defeat Eureka, a high school containing 1,800 students, by 35 points.
The boys battled hard against these teams on an extremely rain-soaked course as Colin Ring, senior, barely missed out on qualifying for the state meet, finishing in the dreaded sixThe individual qualifiers from the girls team ran in the state teenth place (two seconds behind fifteenth), Hunter Freiner, meet on Thursday, November 5th. senior, finished in 29th, Hayden Turley, senior, finished in
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