SEPTEMBER 2021
I DARE YOU TO FINISH READING THIS PG. 14
1 Westminster Christian Academy
STAFF
MANAGING EDITOR IN CHIEF MAGGIE LINDSTROM, SENIOR
Students
EDITOR: 800 SPORTING BROOKE HIGHMARK, SENIOR
CONTENT EDITOR EMMA HARRIS, SENIOR
Serving
BROADCAST LEADER IZZY TROST, SENIOR
BROADCAST LEADER ABBY JOHLERT, SENIOR
Students
BROADCAST LEADER TRISTON SCALES, SENIOR
BROADCAST LEADER ANNA FREGENE, SENIOR
2 STAFF
FEATURE EDITOR
PAWPRINT LIAISON
ELLIE JONES, SENIOR
HOPE LINAM, SENIOR
Staff Writers STAFF WRITER
STAFF WRITER
STAFF WRITER
EVAN KOHN, SENIOR
SAYVA PHILIPS , SENIOR
STAFF WRITER
STAFF WRITER
STAFF WRITER
RILEY HEIRONIMUS, SENIOR
ALEX WITTENAUER, SENIOR
NOLAN JONES, SENIOR
JACOB BROWN, SENIOR
STAFF WRITER
STAFF WRITER
JACKSON LOEHR, SENIOR
STAFF WRITER
JACOB HANSON, SENIOR
STAFF WRITER
ANNA GRACE LIKES, JUNIOR
STAFF WRITER
STAFF WRITER
LUCY KNERR, SOPHOMORE
STAFF WRITER
ALLI BISHOP, JUNIOR
STAFF WRITER
WILL DANA, SOPHOMORE
STAFF WRITER
POPPY MCCAULEY, SOPHOMORE
STAFF WRITER
MEGAN MOREY, SENIOR
MIA SCHEULEN, JUNIOR
STAFF WRITER
STAFF WRITER
STAFF WRITER
STAFF WRITER
AMILA PIERIS, SOPHOMORE
MADDOX ROSENBERG, SOPHOMORE
STAFF WRITER
SYDNEY BRADLEY, JUNIOR
WILLIAM JINKINS, SOPHOMORE
STAFF WRITER
ELIJAH SCHMIDT, FRESHMAN
COLE STEPHENS, JUNIOR
LUKE RYAN, JUNIOR
STAFF WRITER
CHRISTINA ENGLISH, JUNIOR
STAFF WRITER
DREW CAHILL, SOPHOMORE
3
CONTENTS
FEATURE
SOMEBODY TO LEAN ON PG. 7
THE LEADER OF THE PACK PG. 8
FROM SEATTLE TO ST. LOUIS PG. 9
Q&A WITH MR. SEILBACK PG. 10
WHY HOCO IS A NO-NO PG. 11
A WHOLE NEW WORLD PG. 18
OPINION
THE MUTATION OF LOVE MUSIC PG. 12
CAFFEINE MEETS WORLD PG. 13
I DARE YOU TO FINISH READING THIS PG. 14
SOCIAL MEDIA ISN’T ALL BAD: THE PROS PG. 15
LET’S TALK ABOUT TOXIC MASCULINITY PG. 16-17
NEWS
MERAKI IS BACK! PG. 6
SPORTS
EXPERIENCED SWIM COACH SETS HIGH EXPECTATIONS PG. 20
ATHLETE COMES ACROSS THE COUNTRY...FOR CROSS COUNTRY PG. 21
VARSITY SOFTBALL IMPROVES DRASTICALLY PG. 22
ATHLETE OF THE WEEK PG. 23
NEW 800 SPORTING SPONSORSHIP PG. 24
4 CONTENTS
CONTENTS
STAFF ED -What Does It Mean To Have A Longer Lunch?This year, our lunches were extended to forty five minutes. By the end of the year, we may be reduced to twenty minutes once more. Part of our job here at Westminster is to model high expectations and to hold people accountable. So this is what we have to say on ‘devious licks’. “We would prefer not to need all this supervision, but if this is what happens when we give freedom, it’s hard to justify why they have such freedom if they can’t use it responsibly. With great power comes great responsibility,” said Maggie Sperber, math teacher. With great power does come great responsibility; you were given power and you are abusing it. People place their trust in you and you are breaking it. Often we hear students complain here that they don’t have enough freedom, that adults think too little of them.
Well here we are, finally given a chance to prove ourselves, given some more freedom, completely blowing the chance and proving the adults right. Right now, we’re declaring that we cannot be trusted. We might as well go up to the office and directly tell them to revoke our brand new privileges. We’re killing our trust and it’s hardly been born. The actions of the few impact the lives of many. That can be a positive or, in this case, a negative. We personally enjoy the extended lunch and freedom during it. If we keep abusing the freedom we’ve been given, we won’t have the time to do anything at all. So we are going to end this bluntly: cut it out and grow up. We’ll never be one to tell children to stop acting like children. But we are asking teen-agers to stop acting like they’re five.
Thank you for listening. From 800 news
STAFF ED
contact us at 800news@wcatsl.org, if you have any problems or concerns.
STAFF EDITORIAL 5
MERAKI IS BACK! CHRISTINA ENGLISH STAFF WRITER
The Creative Writing and Literary Magazine Enrichment is one of the to write their creative writing pieces thoroughly. The teachers can also eleven enrichments that is offered to students at Westminster through give as much feedback to them as needed. its new program called WestminsterYOU. It first started last year with the Meraki Magazine that was created by senior Emma Harris, and it “For me, using our creative abilities is a fundamental part of being image bearers of God. evolved into an enrichment this My hope is that students year. will experience the joys of creative expression, At the moment, only the upper and in doing so, help school students can take this to understand how enrichment, meeting on God has gifted each Wednesdays and Thursdays. It and every one of them provides a place for students to to create,” explained expand their creative thinking Mr. Roff, junior English and writing skills, to let their teacher and leader of imaginations loose, and to give the Creative Writing them the time to do so. The and Literary Magazine enrichment is not a graded class Enrichment. either, so students do not have to worry about whether they will Students can delve pass or not. deeper into their relationships with God “I think it just made sense to by writing about certain have this enrichment program topics that point to Him to allow students to really have or even poetry about His the time to explore creative creation. The Creative writing; and also just be able to Writing and Literary help support them and provide Magazine Enrichment feedback, or give them helpful gives them the opportutips along the way. We really nity to do this. didn’t have that in the English classrooms, and this kinda gives The Meraki Magazine Flyer. Image provided by Mrs. Holliday A student might join the us more of that opportunity,” enrichment as a place said Mrs. Holliday, freshman to just improve on their English teacher and leader of the creative writing skills, but they could then realize that it is providing Creative Writing and Literary Magazine Enrichment. much more than that. It is providing a safe haven to strengthen their relationships with their classmates, teachers, and God, as well as With this enrichment, students have the time to use their minds to create detailed and intriguing stories. They can create poems, short strengthening their creative writing. stories, stories that are closer to novels, articles for the Meraki Magazine, and so much more. Since creative writing is often a lengthy The Creative Writing and Literary Magazine truly is a paradise that lets process, the enrichment can give the students all the time they need its students’ imaginations run wild!
6 NEWS
SOMEBODY TO LEAN ON
AN UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL INTERVIEW WITH MRS. BROWN, A PILLAR OF WESTMINSTER
ELIJAH SCHMIDT Staff Writer
“Lean on me, when you’re not strong,” said Bill Withers, American Singer-Songwriter.
Overall, Susie Brown has played an instrumental role in shaping the atmosphere at the Academy.
Brown went deeper and explained what her message for highschoolWe all need someone to lay our heads on, and we all need to swallow ers is. She encourages students to get out of their comfort zone, that we as highschoolers should be open to branching out while also our pride to show our needs and ask for help. Whether that person is within the bounds of school, church, or your very own home, such growing in our own faith. “One of my old pastors would say, ‘When you’re green you grow, when you’re ripe you rot.’” Brown explained. a person builds communities and spreads congeniality. For many So whether you are smart or unwitting, athletic or sluggish, beautiful students, such a person is Director of Student Life, Susie Brown. or rough, we all need that person. I speak for the entire Westminster “Susie Brown was always a guaranteed source of smiling optimism Community when I say she is someone who upholds Westminster when you were groggily walking to [the] first period. She always said, Principles like a pillar. ‘Hello!’ when she saw you walking through the hall and made you feel “And I’ll be your friend, I’ll help you carry on…” like you belonged,” said Paul Schmidt, Westminster Alumni. My brother, Paul Schmidt, Class of 2010, has personally been forever imprinted by this Messenger of Christ. It has been nearly eleven years since my brother graduated and yet he vividly remembers the goodwill shown to him by Mrs. Brown, the constant positivity and warmth that she as an Image Bearer emits. Not only that but she still is affecting students and faculty to this day. “She’s super funny and really likable,” said Katie Brown, Freshman. Through her constant hilarity and happy spirits Brown has ushered in a sense of belonging to students, especially as highschoolers become more and more insecure about the enigma known as fitting in. Mrs. Brown and her family became a part of the Westminster Community in 1996, when her oldest son started eight grade. Brown was head of the Booster Club and even then she was an important part of life at Westminster. Seven years later she joined the staff in 2003. Since that time she has become the Director of Student Life, but beyond the title what does a Director of Student Life do? “Students used to ask me, ‘Do you just stand around drinking coffee all day?’” joked Susie Brown. Brown does anything and everything, from coordinating Senior Service to helping with STUCO, to 8th Grade Leadership, to supervising lunches, and a new addition to her workload: helping organize the community aspect of Pawprint Coffee.
Mrs. Brown sits in the Hub and pets Millie. She loves having Millie back for Students. Image by: Elijah Schmidt
FEATURE 7
WHY A DANCE FOR HOCO IS A NO-NO ANNA GRACE LIKES STAFF WRITER
It’s the beginning of fall: the weather starts to change, the leaves turn red and orange, and high school students everywhere are buzzing with excitement for homecoming dances. The thrill of dates, dresses, and everything in between is upon us.
“Trust me, the students do not want Dr. Mosbacker choosing the genre, the music, or the dance moves…if I get involved, the kids are not gonna like what I approve of,” said Mosbacker. Westminster students definitely do not want to be dancing to Kidz Bop with pre-approved dance moves all night. This is why administration allows and provides parents with the resources Well, maybe not for Westminster students. In accordance with to sponsor a homecoming. the rules set in place when the school was founded, Westminster-sponsored dances are not allowed. Lame, right? This all The school genuinely wants their students to have an enjoyable seems a little too similar to the 1980’s movie: Footloose. How- high school experience. It is easier for parents at the school to ever, the reasoning behind these rules make more sense than come together and provide a dance than have the school jump one would originally through endless hoops to make a boring night that nobody would enjoy. This way, students can have a good time, parents think. This way, students can have a good can feel good about the event their kids attend, and the school time, parents can feel good about the Many Westminster does not have to worry about organizing an impossible way event their kids attend, and the school students say, “Well around dancing and music in a non-Christian culture. It may does not have to worry about organizing an impossible way around dancing and dancing is biblical, seem like Westminster is living in an 80’s movie, but at least Jesus says dance can we can still dance outside of campus property. music in a non-Christian culture be a form of worship.” That’s right, he does. There is nothing in the by-laws of the school against dancing itself. What we do have is less about school sponsorship and introduces the grey areas of what dance moves and songs should be promoted in a Christan environment. Some songs that we would not think of to be inappropriate have implications of ideas and behaviors that aren’t Christian, and all families have different opinions on what is and is not acceptable. Culture is inherently not Christian, which makes it difficult for a Christian school to support an environment that could potentially offend many Christian families. According to Dr. Barrett Mosbacker, Head of School, students should have a high school dance they enjoy. That’s why the school does not step in to sponsor a dance: it wouldn’t exactly be most people’s idea of a good time.
8 FEATURE
Illustration by: Anna Grace Likes
FROM SEATTLE TO ST. LOUIS
Welcome to your new home Mrs. Graham! SAYVA PHILLIPS Staff Writer
Are you someone who enjoys watching home decorating shows? Well, so does Kim Graham! Our new 9th and 10th grade principal. She also takes part in teaching Senior English classes.
students and help them glorify Christ through all their work. Even though her new Westminster canvas is much bigger than her Seattle she finds that there are more similarities than differences.
Graham is from Seattle, where she grew up and spent most of her time. “It is gorgeous there, so many mountains where you can hike. Seattle is home to me” she said.
“As soon as I started going to meetings at WCA, I realized that the teachers and leaders at WCA are having many conversations that ones did at my former school. Which is how to live out the mission and prepare young people to transform the world of Jesus Christ,” said Graham
Before becoming Principal here at Westminster, Graham was an assistant Principal at ‘an amazing christian school’ she says, but she was looking for somewhere with a similar mission and vision. She started at Westminster in June of this year. She had already had so many connections within the community considering her husband used to teach here and his kids were alumni. We all know the feeling of a new painting canvas. We all have our own little canvas and visions of our paintings. For Graham starting at Westminster is her canvas and the way she proceeds to welcome
Graham is not just our new Principal, she is a full time reader, who loves to walk and exercise during her free time. She loves sports, theatre and especially musical theatre. So if you are interested in any of these, now and further on is a great opportunity to discuss and conversate with her! As the Westminster community it is our job to welcome Graham and make this her ‘new Seattle’ but without the mountains. “My heart is for this life and community of school. I would like to have personal connections with students. And as the founder of my former school was fond of saying ‘Creation over Response!” said Graham. Ladies and Gentlemen please welcome 9/10 principal Kim Graham. Keep her in your prayers.
Mrs. Graham engaging with her students during her 4th hour class. Image by: Sayva Phillips
FEATURE 9
THE LEADER OF THE PACK
GET A GLIMPSE INTO THE HEAD OF SCHOOL’S LIFE AND RESPONSIBILITIES ANNA GRACE LIKES Staff Writer
Micah Gall, Head of Academic Development, interacts with Mosbacker daily, both formally and informally. Gall describes Mosbacker as mildly introverted, deliberate, task-driven, and efficient in his work, while also being deeply rooted in scripture. “One Tucked in a corner of the business offices is a windowed office space which faces out thing about him is that he seeks counsel often, whether it’s me, other members of the to the Grand Entry. From it, one is able to see every student and staff member who walks Senior Leadership Team, principals, or other staff members. He works hard to avoid in and out daily. Working from this office is Dr. Barrett Mosbacker, Westminster’s Head making rash decisions,” said Gall. Mr. Gall also appreciates how difficult many of Dr. of School. Mosbacker’s decisions have been over the past few years, especially concerning the pandemic. “Education is a profession where many have left over the past year, and he While students may not pass him in the halls in the typical 5 minutes between classes, has stayed through the challenges,” said Gall. he is certainly not removed from the Westminster community. Although Dr. Mosbacker may seem to be “behind the scenes” of the school to some, he is more deeply invested Dr. Mosbacker’s steadfast, resilient, and driven personality has built the Westminster in the students’ lives than most would notice. Even his office placement has implications we have known for the past 4 years. Every decision he makes is for the improvement of this: while tucked into the world of administration, his window also directly faces of the community, and we tend to forget how grateful we should be for school leaders the students he serves daily. While his work may feel far away from you, he sees the who genuinely care for our well-being, safety, faith, and quality of education. “There community and cares about the work he does, and he reflects that always. His decisions are hundreds of millions of students in this world, Christian included, that do not have and the decisions of his administrative peers directly impact you and the experience you access to an education that is both Christian and excellent. That is a rare, rare blesshave at Westminster. ing[…]students need to take advantage of it and not waste it,” said Dr. Mosbacker. You heard your Head of School, Westminster: take advantage of what you have here, and Brought here in 2017 by longtime friend and beloved former Westminster Head of School, know that the administration works every day to improve your school experience. Mr. Marsh, Dr. Mosbacker was ready to take on the tough role. Serving at similar schools in North Carolina and Birmingham, AL, he certainly had the prior experience to manage such a difficult job. These previous schools prepared him for the task at hand, and his disciplined personality made him the perfect fit for the job. His daily schedule is evident of this: “I’m an early riser, I wake up every day at 5:00 am and get to school by 6:00. From 6-6:30 is my devotion time, and then I begin my ‘deep work’ from 6:30-9:30, which consists of thinking, planning, strategic development, and project work for the school. Then from 9:30 until late evening I have various meetings” said Mosbacker. Also scheduled into the day is time for activities to take his mind away from work, such as reading, writing, a daily run, and time with family. Someone so disciplined and scheduled must have been operating this way for quite some time. Starting from his childhood as a military kid, Mosbacker learned from his father to be both highly resilient and slow to anxiety. These qualities certainly contribute to the decisions he makes for the betterment of the school. Since Dr. Mosbacker came into this position at Westminster, he has faced challenges that nobody would ever willingly choose to deal with. The COVID-19 pandemic has affected schools in monumental ways, with lockdowns and school closures beginning in March of 2020. Then, in August of 2020, schools were still shut down…but Westminster chose to be different. The decision was made to reopen in-person with an online option available. “I think it definitely kept our students from falling behind,” said Mosbacker. Now, Westminster is still opening their doors differently than most other schools by not requiring masks for students or staff, yet still strongly encouraging vaccinations. On top of those high-pressure administrative decisions, Mosbacker also initiated innovation for the school. With the addition of academies and enrichment programs this school year, students have more freedom to choose what they are interested in. This idea was not solely Dr. Mosbacker’s, though. “Because we did things differently last year […] I formed what I basically called an innovation committee […] to answer the question ‘what if we did ______?’” said Mosbacker. He also seeks counsel within other members of the school community on a daily basis in order to make informed and level-headed decisions concerning the development of Westminster. This is Mosbacker’s 5th year as Head of School at WCA. Image courtesy of Newspaper archives.
10 FEATURE
Q&A WITH MR. SEILBACK
GET TO KNOW OUR NEW WCA WORLDVIEWS TEACHER! MADDOX ROSENBERG Staff Writer Q: What was your hometown like? A: “I grew up in the suburbs of Maryland. I grew up in a town about 45 minutes northeast of Baltimore. Which was pretty much all I knew. We had a park nearby that I loved to go to, and I would do some mountain biking in. In terms of the town feel, I didn’t really have that. Our house was actually back in the woods in the suburban neighborhood. I always loved playing around in the woods, that was always a part of my childhood. There were a couple guys that I knew from the neighborhood; we would get together and play baseball or ride bikes.” Q: Can you tell us about your college experience?
Photo by: Riley Jinkins. Edited by: Maddox Rosenberg
students, to share the love of Christ with the kids at Westminster.”
Q: Where have you been hiking and mountain biking, and where A: “I went to a community college for 2 years in Maryland, and that was would you like to explore in the future? for me, a good adjustment step to where I would go after that. I was able to experience the world in a new way, like I have said I had been A: “I’ve been hiking in parks in Maryland, parks here in Missouri. Same with mountain biking. I hiked the Appalachian Trail for about a week. homeschooled from 7th grade to 12th grade. Then I transferred to a I’ve done some hiking in the Smokies. Climbed a mountain called Old small bible college in Pennsylvania, called Lancaster Bible College.” Rag, which is in Virgina. I went with a group to do some white water Q: Did you ever change your major, or did it always stay the same? rapids in Yakedene River, in Virgina. I’d love to go out west and hit some trails in Colorado.” A: “When I started at community college, it was undeclared, it was just general studies. I took 2 or 3 video classes, which was a lot of fun. Q: What makes your favorite movies your favorite? I knew I had an interest in video stuff, but ultimately I said, ‘Okay I’m not going to go that direction, I’m gonna go to Bible college.’ The Bible A: “My favorite movies are ones that cause you to think about life, to be motivated, and they change you. My favorite movies are ones that college I went to says that everyone majors in Bible.” are transformative. Q: Why did you come to WCA to teach? Q: What interested you in video making? A: “I was in marketing, primarily focused on film, making short films for companies and nonprofits for the past 12 years. My wife and I had A: “I always loved movies, growing up it was a big part of the culture of our home, of our family. My dad and my brother really helped moved out here with our 6 week old daughter back in 2005, to go to seminary. I was originally thinking about full time ministry, but while to cultivate a love for film and for story telling. I knew there was I was there I realized how much I really loved film and I wanted to do something powerful about film pretty early on. That it wasn’t just entertaining, that it was the emotions, the motivations, the thought something with it. My daughter, through a series of events, ended up coming here to Westminster. The posting came up [for a teaching job], processes that it gets you to through the medium of entertainment, and it really became an opportunity to rejoin what I came out here for. it’s a powerful thing.” To do something in ministry. I saw it as an opportunity to minister to
FEATURE 11
A WHOLE NEW WORLD MEET SENORA MEEKS ELLIE JONES FEATURES EDITOR Born in 1965, she was the last of seven children, with three brothers and three sisters. Both of her Catholic parents were full-time, and extremely hardworking, which left an abundance of responsibility on her older sister, Socoro, to care for the rest of the kids. Her mother owned a grocery store, while her father spent an amplitude of time working in California by virtue of his possession of a green card. Senora studied hard to earn her undergraduate biology degree from the University of Guadalajara, only then to acquire her master’s in health and environment in Pamplona, Spain.
Senora Meeks teachers her first hour. She loves teaching such incredible students. Photo by: Elijah Schmidt
She has a son named Christian, and a daughter named Elizabeth. “Even though I heard about God, I really didn’t have a close rela- Both are Westminster graduates and moved on to living wondertionship with him. It wasn’t until I was in college that I got connect- ful lives. Christian, born in Guadalajara, Mexico, is currently 24, ed with a Protestant church. The preaching got my attention right and married to his high school sweetheart. He received a degree in English and Art from Saint Louis University. Elizabeth, born in from the start,” said Meeks. Buenos Aires, Argentina, is 21 years old and currently resides at the Being born into a religious home does not automatically guarantee University of Kansas studying interior and architecture. a meaningful relationship with Christ, which many can attest to. “My husband always said that he was convinced that I should be a She explains how God was shown through the message that day, teacher, to which I always responded: ‘claro que no!’ I didn’t feel like it was my call,” said Meeks. However, shortly after moving calling her to become involved with a youth group at her home church in Mexico. This powerful group traveled internationally to here to St. Louis, she was quickly presented with the opportunity to teach Spanish at a grade school. Spain, as well as Illinois to spread the word through a missions conference. She prayed and prayed asking that God retract the teaching offer, she was afraid, nevertheless, the Lord had a plan and she knew Despite her love for the Lord, she has also overcome traumatic obstacles thus far. In 2001, shortly after the terrorist attack in New that. York City, Senora Meeks’ husband sadly passed away. On top of this extreme hardship, she moved to the states right after, in a culture “Now I am super grateful that he didn’t close the door, and the contrary, he left it wide open for me. Even though it was very hard she was not familiar with in any way. at first, it has been one of the greatest blessings I have ever had.” Despite her love for the Lord, she has also overcome traumatic obstacles thus far. In 2001, shortly after the terrorist attack in New Nineteen years later, and in her eighth year at Westminster, Senora York City, Senora Meeks’ husband sadly passed away. On top of this reveals her greatest love for teaching: her amazing students. Her extreme hardship, she moved to the states right after, in a culture favorite part is experiencing how two different cultures can be unified under God. she was not familiar with in any way.
12 FEATURE
THE MUTATION OF LOVE MUSIC
LOVE BALLADS HAVE EVOLVED INTO PRESENT DAY FILTH MADDOX ROSENBERG Staff Writer
plenty of degrading and harsh lyrics and songs, far more than there ever has been.
Love songs have long been a part of culture and music, and just as the great musicians, some of them have gone down in history. There are the greats, the ones who paved the way for music as a whole. Now it looks like actual love in music is tainted. This music used to compliment men and women, but now it degrades both. The past typically talked about loving, innocent actions. For example, Frank Sinatra, Paul Anka, and Elvis Presley dominated the charts with beautiful lyrics and heavenly orchestras. While the present charts are usually dominated by lyrics of dirty, impure actions and doings.
For example, Doja Cat took “Put Your Head On My Shoulder” by Pual Anka, and she twisted it into a dirty song called “Freak”: “You want a good girl that does bad things to you” and “Spice up your life, come get a freak” (Cat Freak). There are many problems with this song and many lyrics I cannot talk about in our school newspaper. The thing that bugs me is that this dirty song is played to a classic love song.
Frank Sinatra released “Your Love For Me” in 1966. The love ballad features lyrics such as, “It’s hard to believe just how lucky in love you have made me feel,” and “It’s lovable, it’s lyrical, it’s something of a miracle, your love for me” with a powerful and beautiful orchestra (Your Love For Me).
Many top songs today are dirty: “THAT’S WHAT I WANT” Lil Nas X, “Way 2 Sexy (with Future & Young Thug)” Drake, Future, Young Thug, “Woman” Doja Cat, and “INDUSTRY BABY (feat. Jack Harlow)” Lil Nas X, Jack Harlow.
You could also listen to most Cardi B songs and understand what I’m talking about. In just 60 years we went from listening to heavenly love ballads to talking about sex and other impure actions. The Paul Anka released “Put Your Head On Elvis Presley (left), Frank Sinatra (middle), Paul My Shoulder” in 1959. He spoke of pure love Anka (right). Ilustration by: Maddox Rosenberg problem is these things are so normalized in our present time, that we with a girl. For example, “Won’t you kiss me even have young kids singing dirty once, baby?” and “Tell me, tell me that you songs. I’ll be honest, when I was little I sang my fair share of some love me too” with a supporting quartet (Put Your Head On My Shoulsongs I didn’t know the meaning of- but kids now are growing up der). Compared to today’s lyrics in songs, “tell me that you love me hearing extreme actions in songs all of the time. too” is one of the purest things to ask for. Nowadays, you would be lucky that a song does not talk about sex, and other dirty actions. A big issue though is these songs are being nominated for GramFinally, Elvis Presley with “Can’t Help Falling In Love” released in 1961, mys and they are at the top of the charts. I was an umpire this past summer and I would hear some of these walk up songs for 8 or 9 and featuring lyrics like “Oh, [...] but I can’t help falling in love with year olds. I was surprised that they liked these really explicit songs you,” and “Take my hand/Take my whole life too” with a peaceful and they even knew about them. I grew up on what I believe to be the undertone (Can’t Help Falling In Love). peak of the pop genre but this new generation is growing up on the These lyrics were beautiful and loving, but the difference between then peak of dirty, explicit rap/hip hop songs. It would be nice if we were and now is drastic. Of course, there are some good examples of love able to go back and start enjoying the old music. music now and there were a few bad ones back then, but there are
OPINION 13
LET’S TALK ABOUT TOXIC MASCULINITY. EMMA HARRIS CONTENT EDITOR
“Toxic masculinity.” I know it’s a hot button phraseology, but stick with me here on this one- I believe you could really gain something from this. The term toxic masculinity is incredibly stigmatized and controversial. It’s often misused, misdefined, and misunderstood by its name, and because of this, conversations about toxic masculinity are typically shut down before they even begin. But it’s not an extreme ‘radical feminist’ idea to justify hatred towards men, it’s a real, valid thing that’s detrimental to both women and men. So let’s define it first. What is toxic masculinity anyway? First we must look at what toxic masculinity is not. Toxic masculinity is not the banishment and scrutiny of all masculinity like people often misconceive- the term has “toxic” in it for a reason. That is not what this term critiques; what it critiques is the societal pressures men face telling them it’s not okay to cry, it’s not okay to show any weakness, and it’s not okay to associate yourself with anything feminine. To be clear, there is such a thing as positive masculinity. What differentiates positive masculinity from toxic masculinity is that positive “masculine energy—when consciously-calibrated, wisely-timed, and smartly-appropriated—is courageously life-giving, boldly empowering, and fiercely impactful to individual men and everyone else in their lives. Conversely, toxic masculinity is extreme, injurious, ill-timed, and poorly-appropriated,” says The Westport Library. Toxic masculinity refers to an incorrect idea of masculinity, one that has serious, even life threatening consequences (we’ll get to that latter part in a bit- and no, I’m genuinely not being dramatic when I say that). “The concept of ‘traditional masculinity ideology’ [...] is a standard for maleness held by large segments of the population that involves anti-femininity, achievement, eschewal of the appearance of weakness, adventure, risk, and violence, and is linked homophobia, bullying, and sexual harassment,” says NBC article “Toxic masulinity is terrible shorthand for a real problem plaguing men,” written by psychotherapist F. Diana Barth. Men are constantly told not to show any weakness, not to cry, to suck it up, that emotions are silly, that liking anything feminine makes you lesser. Crying is only for little kids, funerals, and people gazing at the Grand Canyon. Life is about status, sex, and dominance in some toxic versions of masculinity. This is what causes an increase in sexual harassment cases.
14 OPINION
Here’s a breakdown of how it primarily affects women (in addition to cases of sexual assault): Toxic masculinity is the abnegation of anything that could be associated with femininity because it sees femininity as weak and silly. Such associations would include emotions. So, if a man partakes in poetry, an emotional and creative realm, he is called gay as an insult (an additional issue in of itself). Makeup is a silly girl thing. Crying is for those overemotional women. The whole idea of toxic masculinity is to be the opposite of a woman, that if you have feminine aspects, said feminine aspects make you lesser- it’s desperate to be anything but feminine. Thus, if they avoid femininity so frantically, there must be something incredibly wrong with it. Even things like guys wearing a skirt or a dress (which is a cultural normative I genuinely abhor and see absolutely no reason for) or even simply a hair clip can incite teasing and judgement. “That’s for women,” I have heard in a dismissive and judgemental tone in reference to a boy wearing a hair clip. Toxic masculinity very clearly indicates that there is a hierarchy, andGuys have emotions too. yes, thats women are not at the top- it’s degrading to being feminine. Photo by: Emma H say the least. It turns being a woman into the biggest insult imaginable.
It’s not insulting to be feminine. It’s also not insulting when I say you that, in 2012, 88.7% of individuals arrested for murder or manslaughhave emotions too. Many guys were told to suck it up in their childhood, ter were males. According to Yale psychology professor June Gruber, that big boys don’t cry. So what exactly occurs “when men are con- men more frequently turn to physical violence in times of depression stantly told that they should not express their emotions freely — that and stress than women do, and studies show they are more prone to they must be tough and strong, and if they do not fit those standards domestic abuse in general. Because men are told asking for help makes then they can be viewed as feminine, and therefore weak”?, as The New them weak, men often do not get help for depression, and thus are more York Times article “What Is Toxic Masculinity?” defines toxic masculin- likely to act in violence. Additionally, rage is the only emotion men are ity. There are a multitude of negative consequences. told they can have, as it is associated with power. Because men are only allowed to express anger- and sometimes even encouraged too- this One of is the emotion they express, and they do so in excess. Many men do not the conse- know how to regulate their rage. quences of suppressed Toxic masculinity can legitimately be life-threatening. Because men emotions are taught that their emotions are silly and asking for help equates to is extreme weakness, men are far less likely to seek help when struggling with aggression. their mental health. In the United States, men are 3.5 times more likely Counselor to commit suicide than women, and 40% of countries have more than 15 Nick Erdeaths by suicide for every 100,000 men (“Why More Men Than Women ber-Lapiere, Die By Suicide,” an article by BBC). Toxic masculinity is the benefactor PhD, says as here. Though I am not a man, I know personally what it’s like to feel you’ll men grow up, only be loved and accepted if you’re strong, to feel that showing emotion their “meta- is a crime. Perhaps that’s why this is such a passionate subject for me- I phorical little know how difficult it is to live in this mentality. Toxic masculinity kills. boys continue Toxic masculinity drives people to commit suicide. on existing inside our The unavoidable truth is that toxic masculinity is still rampant in our minds, and society, and because many people do not believe in its validity, because it is so entwined in our society and daily lives, it often goes without don’t get validated for correction. It is “ingrained in our way of life, so much so that we often their feelings. do not notice it. It is prevalent in such seemingly small ways, like when a young male athlete throws a bad pass, he is regularly told not to ‘throw We carry this into our like a girl,’ as if that is an insult,” says the article “Toxic masculinity in adulthood society”. as men who are fearful Toxic masculinity is just that: toxic. Everyone suffers from toxic masculinity and everyone has witnessed the outcome of it, whether cognizantly of feeling anything. So or not. It’s such a large subject and impactful aspect of our society that when life cir- this article hardly begins to scrape the surface of it. What it takes to be cumstances a “man” is something no one can hope to genuinely achieve, especially injure us psy- not in companion with a happy and fulfilling life; a life of trying to be chologically, society’s version of a man involves suffering, anger, and exhaustion. So the response I want to let you know that you have emotions, and that’s not an insult. motions too. yes, thats not and insult neither is is commonly anger and Neither is being feminine. You don’t have to be “tough,” you don’t have to ne. Photo by: Emma Harris lashing out – because we always be on top. I hope this helped bring awareness to a serious cause can’t be angry and sad at the same time, so rage replaces sadness as a with an unfortunate name and stigma. protective factor” (Ohana Behavioral Health) The FBI released studies
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BUT SOCIAL MEDIA ISN’T ALL BAD: THE PROS EMMA HARRIS Content Editor
the animal kingdom, and Tabitha Brown shares her vegan recipes.
Social media encourages creativity and develops artistic ability, informs people, offers support, and brings different cultures together.
Illustration by: Emma Harris
Social media is also filled with articulate opinions and historical information (although checking your source’s validity is particularly crucial for this one), another source of information people find through social media they maybe wouldn’t have found otherwise. Many certified doctors- Dr. Kunal Sood, MD, for examplehave online presences where they debunk myths and give out advice, as well as licensed therapists- such as Dr. Julie Smith, PhD- who shed light on mental health, destigmatize it, and provide coping methods for thousands of people who can’t afford therapy or are too afraid to speak up for themselves and make that step. It’s amazing what you can learn from social media. Incredibly, all of the education is free. Along the lines of social media’s ability to provide valuable information, social media can effectively bring together people of different ethnic and cultural backgrounds, educating people who would otherwise be ignorant.
Social media also brings awareness to issues, from environmental destruction and A place where artists can express themselves, where people have a genuine interest how you can help prevent it to what it’s like for people who struggle with certain illnesses or disabilities. People are empowered to raise their voices for the greater in learning, different cultures come together, those with struggles find solace in good, touched by the hardship of others and encouraged to speak in a place in having people with similar afflictions, passions are explored and shared; Social which they actually have a chance of being heard. On social media, people can media certainly has its negative effects on society, effects that are serious and grave- social media could even have a negative impact on society overall. However, redirect others to donations, protest locations, petitions, and ethically sourced social media, like most things, is not all black and white, and it has the chance to be stores. something great, something empowering, impactful, and positive for society. Here Not only are illnesses and disabilities destigmatized and brought attention to, but are the positives of social media. those who personally struggle with these now have a person or even a whole Social media can be a space of creativity and endless possibilities, a place that en- community of people who also share that struggle. There are many support groups courages ingenuity and offers an outlet for artistic expression. Instagram and TikTok online, particularly on Facebook, and being in one- or even just finding one social media page with a person who openly talks about their struggle- can be incredibly have a plethora of artists, some beginner and some expert, and Tumblr and Quora have many different spaces where writers can share their poetry, short stories, and healing, informative, and comforting. It’s one thing to have loved ones who care for you, but it’s another thing to have someone that gets it, that understands your pain, likewise. Social media effectively gives creative people a place where they have who’s lived in it. a voice, a place where they can actually share with the world what they work so tirelessly on. Many artists actually find recognition on Instagram and TikTok too, and even go on to sell their work. Social media also gives musicians a platform as well, one they can share the songs they wrote themselves on- some small, independent or aspiring musicians have gathered an audience purely out of their use of social media. The well known and insanely popular Olivia Rodrigo’s success was largely due to TikTok using her music as sounds. Tate McRae, a young singer-songwriter, started posting her songs on TikTok and soon after released an album and a single in 2021 when her music took off from there. In 2019, according to an article by Music Business Worldwide, seventy different musicians that started on TikTok signed with major labels.
Social media should be used as a reliable or unbiased news source with major caution and non-exclusivity. However, there are plenty of instances where social media can be educational and informative; there are a plethora of art videos containing technical tips, and any art video in of itself is a tutorial. There are also many cooking videos, and there are an abundance more of videos on novels- TikTok even has a subculture referred to as ‘BookTok’. The TikTok user ‘Hood Nature’ makes videos on
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People with struggles aren’t the only ones benefited by social media groups. Like-minded people from all paths of life can come together and bond over just about anything, able to freely discuss their passions with those who are genuinely interested in what they have to express. Communities are outlets for a lot of people who love something but don’t have someone who shares a love for it, whether this is the incredibly broad online world of art, or a specific fandom centered around a single novel. Social media fosters communication and communities, whether centered around a shared favorite television series or a mutual love for cuisine. Social media also allows for friends who don’t see each other often to stay in touch. There are many, many downfalls to social media. But despite the great debate of whether social media has a negative net, just as the negatives should not be, the positives should not be neglected either. Social media has the chance to be a source and inspiration for great creativity, passion, education, and culture. Let’s not pitch it altogether, but work to free it of its faults instead.
I DARE YOU TO FINISH READING THIS
LUCY KNERR Staff Writer
With the populous’ attention being stolen from them on a daily basis, the relativity of time (how individuals feel and interpret It is clear to see that the current generations of countries such as time) also speeds up an exponential amount. Shortened attention the United States see the time before the internet as something span ends up leading to an unwillingness for patience, which can similar to the dark ages. Everything everywhere revolves around the have disastrous results in the long run for civilization as a whole. online world, especially that of social media websites intentionally Bad decisions usually derive from a lack of processing a problem designed for endless entertainment. at hand. When people only look for instant gratification and easy answers, the worse the situation becomes. Quick, efficient, and instantaneous access to “anything and everything all of the time” has surged human discovery and advanceThe only way to fully stop this epidemic would be to completely ment ten fold. However, with this exponential growth in access to get rid of social media sites and the technology that runs them. information came a need for instantaneous gratification as well as However in the current age of ever changing technology, humanity shortened attention spans. relies on these sites too much to fully get rid of them at all. HumanStudies conducted by organizations such as Microsoft have exposed the disturbing data that the human race (at least, the substantial portion living in America) have an average attention span of 8 seconds which is much shorter than the average 12 seconds that was considered normal only a couple years ago. That is less than the ordinary goldfish, which has an average attention span of 8.25 seconds.
ity has become reliant on distraction.
Thus, the only real solution is to take time away from screens, the internet, and social media and take time to experience the many wonders the world offers. Go outside, read a book, go spend time with friends! Community and curiosity of the human mind will save the next generations, if people choose to let them do so.
Though it is annoying when millennial parents blame all of the youngest generation’s problems on technology, it is also partially true. With the introduction of social media platforms such as instagram, snapchat, and tik tok, there has been an exceptional decline in mental health, quality of life and, of course, attention. The most nauseating part about these declines is that social media companies and those that created them knew that this could potentially happen. Social media was designed in such a way to take hold of your attention and maintain it in order to make their profit. They use advertisements to “buy and sell” an individual’s attention to make billions of dollars which in turn make more ads to make even more money. The more we distract ourselves with scrolling, the deeper people will fall into the clutches of the never ending, draining and unfulfilling cycle that social media was designed to create.
We are watching time go by as we spend it being distracted.
Illustration by: Lucy Knerr
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CAFFEINE MEETS WORLD CHRISTINA ENGLISH STAFF WRITER
.Caffeine is a staple of many people’s lives, a necessity to make it through the day. It’s also a type of drug that affects your brain and central nervous system. People often consume it in coffee, tea, energy drinks, like Red Bull, and soft drinks, like Coca Cola. Caffeine can also be found in chocolate and some energy bars. Caffeine helps you focus on what you need to do, and it makes you feel more jovial and awake if you take it in small doses. If you take it in large doses, however, it can make you worry too much and not be able to get enough sleep. “How you react to caffeine depends on your body mass, health and metabolism. It also depends on whether your body is used to getting regular doses of caffeine and how much you have in one serving,” says the Better Health Channel.
Caffeine and its affects on the world. Image by: Christina English
For most people, 400mg of caffeine or less every day is a healthy amount. However, people can become dependent on caffeine if drinks contain caffeine, as well as ingredients such as taurine their body becomes too used to the effects of it. Most people start and guarana (a natural source of caffeine).” to consume more doses in order to feel the same effects if this happens. Energy drinks often have more caffeine and sugar than soft drinks, which is honestly not surprising. Energy drinks also do Some of the symptoms of caffeine withdrawal are anxiety, not give people the hydration they need; this is the main differsweating, muscle pain, fatigue, being ill-tempered, and having ence between them and sports drinks. headaches all of the time. As someone who does not drink caffeinated drinks, all of the “As you cut back on caffeine, you may find yourself feeling tired. facts about caffeine and what it does to the body are fascinating Be sure to get enough sleep, and boost your energy with exer- to me. It is also intriguing how people, especially teenagers like cise,” remarks Mary L. Gavin, MD of TeensHealth from Nemours. me, are so addicted to caffeine to the point where some of them cannot go a day without it. If someone substitutes caffeinated coffee, sodas, and tea with drinks that do not have caffeine, they can slowly but surely re- I believe that caffeine can affect people in a positive manner, duce the amount of caffeine they take in; their body will become but we need to watch ourselves and our intake of caffeine so more used to living without caffeine. that we do not damage our bodies. The Better Health Channel also notes that energy drinks have recently involved themselves in the caffeine world: “Energy
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Westminster Christian Academy
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NEW DIVE TEAM ADDS POINTS
THREE NOVICE DIVERS LEARN WAYS TO CONTRIBUTE TO THE TEAM ALEX WITTENAUER STAFF WRITER
In the past, the Westminster boys swim team has been just that: a swim team. This year, however, that’s going to change. Coach McGowan has recently added a new coach, Steve Braun, to lead the dive team. In the past three years, the team has lost eight meets by less than ten points, all of which were against schools with dive teams. With just three divers of our own, we would have won every one of these meets. Coach McGowan realized the importance of the divers to the success of the team, so he has trained three novice divers to become skilled enough to earn points for the team.
“Coach Braun is obviously very knowledgeable and has helped my teammates and I become good enough divers to compete. He has literally taught me everything I know,” said Evan Kohn, senior and first year diver.
Similar to an individual race in a meet, the diving competition is scored by the top five placed divers who are awarded points in order of their placement: 6-4-3-2-1. The scoring of each individual diver consists of three judges: one from each team’s coaching staff as well as the swim meet official. With no divers, the Westminster team has been put in a sixteen point deficit without even jumping in the water. “Coach Braun is obviously very knowledgeable and has helped my teammates and I become good enough divers to compete. He has literally taught me everything I know,” said Evan Kohn, senior and first year diver. Each diver must complete six dives in order to compete in a varsity dual or tri-team meet. Within the six dive list, at least one dive must come from each of the categories: forward, back, reverse, inward and twisting. The sixth dive comes from a category of the diver’s choice but cannot be a previously used dive. In the most recent meet against Borgia, the reinvented Westminster swim and dive team was given a 13 point lead through three first year divers Evan Kohn, Joey Schloss, and Luke Ryan before our swimmers dove into the water. Coach McGowan’s new addition of a dive coach and willing participants are looking very promising to help the success of the team.
Evan Kohn and Luke Ryan work on their skills with Coach Bruan. Photo by: Eleanor Disper
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VARSITY SOFTBALL HAS IMPROVED DRASTICALLY After an unfortunate losing record last year, the Wildcats have quadrupled their wins since last season. HOPE LINAM STAFF WRITER & PAWPRINT LIASON
Heading into the 2021-22 season, the varsity softball team had to make shifts in both the infield and outfield due to the loss of three seniors, Nicki Mabry, Marty Briner, and Grace Yost. The changes allowed for new chemistry to form between the team, as they have a new second and third baseman and right fielder. Despite these losses, the team has picked up four wins for the season, so far bringing their record to (4-7) compared to last year’s record of (1-9).
is or who we are playing and keeping a good attitude even when the game is slipping away from us. I think if we all put in the work on our own and work together during the games, we will be a very difficult team to beat. Working as hard as we can during the rest of our practices will also contribute to our further success,” said Molly Kate Bugh, sophomore shortstop.
The softball team has had to learn that mental battles can be just as Even though the team currently has a record below .500, winning four difficult as the physical ones. Some of the team’s losses this year are times as many games as they did last season has made the game consid- attributed to mental errors in addition to fundamental ones. Through these challenges, however, the team has grown closer together and learned erably more enjoyable for both the players and coaches. how to build each other up through their various weaknesses. Quadrupling their wins has definitely increased the pleasure of the game, and the emphasis on focus is a reflection of that. “As a team, we have been challenging ourselves by shifting our mindsets. It’s difficult to keep our heads up when the score is low, but that makes us want to help each other up that much more. Backing each other up behind every play, cheering each other on, and keeping the energy high from the first pitch is something that we’ve been working on,” said Yost.
The varsity softball team celebrates a win. Photo by: Emma Yost
Looking ahead to the rest of the season, the softball team plans to maintain their focus but above all enjoy the game together every time they step onto the field. Seeing as how the team is seeded number one for the district tournament, they have something to look forward to and motivate them towards success. By holding one another accountable and working together, the team is developing a culture that will assist them in their season, possibly ending with a district title.
“It feels amazing to have more wins this season than last. As a team, we’ve had the motivation to work harder than ever before. The feeling of “My favorite part of this season was our first win against Rosati-Kain winning pays off from the amount of work we’ve put in,” said Emma Yost, because it really boosted my confidence and gave me a lot of hope for this season. Also because of COVID last year, it was really hard to bond senior right fielder. with everyone but especially those older than me like the seniors. This Just like any other sports team, varsity softball has had their fair share year I feel like I have been able to get to know everyone much better of ups and downs. Despite both close and large losses, mental setbacks, this year and I can’t wait to see how far we can go,” said Ellie Berkland, sophomore catcher. injuries, and everything in between, they have done the best that they can to overcome the adversity and stay positive. Although this type of adjustment can cause frustration, knowing that they have already improved so much since last season has made a lasting difference on their culture. “I think a big thing for our team is not giving up no matter what the score
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ATHLETE COMES ACROSS THE COUNTRY...FOR CROSS COUNTRY DREW CAHILL STAFF WRITER
Koen, pronounced like “koon,” has always lived in the Netherlands but had the privilege to come to Westminster Christian Academy during his mandatory gap year, even though he had already graduated high school in his home country. He chose to follow his brother’s footsteps, as Jelmer Ter Veer came to Westminster during his gap year.
“Coaching on the Westminster team has been personal and elaborate, which isn’t always the case at home,”
Jelmer played soccer, but Koen decided to take his talents to the cross country team. Already being one of the better runners, Ter Veer goes above and beyond to help the team and reach his personal best.
Koen Ter Veer.
Koen Ter Veer, a new student from the Netherlands and current senior, will lead this year’s cross country team as the only senior on the squad. Ter Veer is both a strong runner and leader. His hardworking attitude is very helpful for the younger runners, and he always pushes them to give it their all.
Koen went to Praedinius Gymnasium school in the Netherlands where he played field hockey. Running was a hobby for him, but he did not join the cross country team. Field Hockey is a common sport for men in the Netherlands, although soccer is easily the most popular. Although there are many similarities between the two schools that he has attended, Ter Veer has found that the biggest difference is the coaching. “Coaching on the Westminster team has been personal and elaborate, which isn’t always the case at home,” said Ter Veer. Koen has also encountered a difference in academic courses between his public school and Westminster. He has enjoyed taking government, strength and conditioning, and worldviews. Interestingly, Ter Veer has found it easier to run in the Netherlands than in Missouri due to the temperature and terrain. Missouri temperatures have been hot and humid, while in the Netherlands the air stays cooler. There are also far more hills compared to the flat grounds in his hometown. Ter Veer has found that another massive difference is transportation. In the Netherlands, there aren’t huge roads, so most people bike everywhere. He used to deliver pizzas through any type of weather using an electric bike. Sadly, Koen is not able to race with the team because he is international. He has been able to run individually but not as a part of Westminster. Although he can’t race, Ter Ver Joey Schloss waving a WCA flag at a cross country meet. enjoys going to the meets and cheering on his team. Photo by: Drew Cahill Koen Ter Veer has been blessed with the opportunity to experience two unique cultures; he will continue to make a large impact on the cross country team this season.
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ATHLETE OF THE WEEK September 13-19
BROOKE HIGHMARK SPORTING EDITOR
Jacob Schloss, senior, finished sixth overall out of 93 people and first in Jacob Schloss swims the 500m freestyle, 100m backstroke, and various his age group in the Carlyle Lake Triathlon this past Sunday on September relays for the Westminster swim team. He has been a vital part to the 19th, 2021, making him an obvious selection for Sporting’s second “Athlete team’s success since his freshman year and has qualified for state the of the Week.” This demanding event included a 1500 meter swim, 24.5 past two years in a row. His goal this season is to swim sub minutes in mile bike, and 6.2 mile run, an Olympic distance triathlon. the 500. Schloss only began training and participating in triathlons recently, as “I’m excited to see how the team continues to progress. It’s exciting to he picked up the hobby during the COVID year, but he was not afraid of a watch others get best times and I’m excited for what the remainder of challenge. the season has to offer,” said Schloss. “Since I was already good at swimming, all I had to improve was running for distance and road biking,” said Schloss.
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NEW 800 SPORTING SPONSORSHIP
“IT’S ALMOST WORTH MOVING UP A WEIGHT CLASS!” NOLAN JONES STAFF WRITER
Vivianos Festa Italino is now an offical sponsor of 800 sporting. Viviano’s festa Italiano is an authentic Italian restaurant and deli. They have 2 locations, one in Fenton and one in chesterfield. Vivianos has dine-in, carryout, deli, grocery, and catering services. Vivianos deli and grocery carries products from the hill that are hard to find in the area if you don’t go to down on the hill. If you’re in the mood for some ravioli, tortellini , or any authentic Italian cuisine and don’t want to drive down to the hill, come see the kind staff at either of the two vivianos locations. If you’re making an Italian dish and not sure what that exact cheese is, the staff at Vivianos will take care of you and get you what you need.
I’m a wrestler who cuts weight during the season. I eat healthy all week and I can usually eat a normal meal after a wrestling match. My favorite meal on these nights is a festa Italiano sandwich “I dip the festa roast beef on and pasta con broccoli. There is nothing like the combination of these two meals. cheese garlic bread into the
pasta con brocli and I think about moving up weight classes.” -Nolan Jones
Vivianos caters to any event and party you are planning. Whether you’re below. looking for food for team meals, meetings, weddings, or any party, Viviano’s will cater great food for whatever you need.
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“We’re local, independent businesses. We’re proud to be your neighbors, and we’re proud to feed you and to bring part of The Hill closer to you. Fresh bread from Marconi & Fazio’s available daily.” Vivianos also has their own pasta sauce produced and bottled on the hill. They use this sauce in their meals, and you can buy it in a jar for home like the one pictured
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