The Sun Devils’ Advocate Volume XLI, Number 8 Kent Denver School, 4000 East Quincy Avenue, Englewood, CO 80110 December 21, 2017 Students Celebrate The End Of First Semester!

Seniors decorate to celebrate the end of the semester and the holidays. Photo by Cordelia Lowrey

What’s Cool Girl’s Integrity of In The US Journalism See Page 4 See Page 6 See Page 14 News Fraternity Controversies Threaten Greek Life instead waited over twelve hours to call the new culture, and our students must be full par- by Emily Hogan police, turning the possibly nonfatal situation ticipants in creating it.” In the past couple of months, headlines into a tragedy. Video footage of that night’s Though many colleges across the nation on the controversial topic of college fraterni- events led to criminal charges being brought have experienced comparable situations, not ties have spread throughout multiple news upon a total of twenty five students. Accord- all Greek life is similar. Greek life, in general, sources. The organizations have been in the ing to CNN, the charges include manslaughter, is a celebrated tradition in which college stu- spotlight due to numerous deaths and injuries assault, hazing, and distribution of alcohol to dents take part in a social organization, meet caused by brutal hazing tactics and high alco- minors. While certain felony charges were ul- new people, and become a part of something hol consumption. Colleges such as Penn State, timately dismissed, fourteen students still need bigger than themselves. Fraternities have been Florida State University, and many more have to stand trial for Timothy Piazza’s death. around since the eighteenth century and have experienced situations in which students, par- Another college that has been under scruti- continuously grown through the decades. ticularly underclassmen, were harmed due to ny recently is Florida State University, where, While it has been debated on whether fra- excessive hazing. As a result, fraternities have according to , a student ternities should remain or not, it is important to been examined by college authorities, which named Andrew Coffey died in early Novem- consider that these organizations give students has sparked both backlash and support from ber, with alcohol presumably being a factor in a feeling of belonging and happiness. How- the public. his death. This is not the only scandal to plague ever, instances such as those at Penn State and This intense media attention arguably be- Florida State University though, as 20-year-old Florida State University have, understandably, gan with the death of Penn State sophomore, fraternity member, Garret John Marcy, was re- triggered a massive negative public response. Tim Piazza, on February 3, 2017. According to cently charged with selling and trafficking co- caine. These fraternity deaths were a result of The Atlantic Magazine, he was involved with a hazing and the poor judgement of college stu- hazing event and fell down the stairs after hav- As a result of these many controversies, dents. While the banning of fraternities nation- ing multiple drinks, resulting in traumatic brain Florida State University President, John ally does not seem likely, these events urge for injuries, lacerated spleen, and a ruptured abdo- Thrasher, has issued a suspension of all Greek change and reform to the Greek system. The men. He could have, however, survived the fall life at the college, adding, “For this suspension act of change on a smaller scale to the Greek if his fellow fraternity brothers at Beta Theta Pi to end, there will need to be a new normal for system as a whole could prevent similar situa- had called for help immediately; however, they Greek life at the university... There must be a tions from happening in the future. Ball Family Takes Over News Headlines Coincidentally, Trump arrived in China for Although the United States and China seem by Henry Rogers and Andrew Park a friendly visit while this shoplifting incident to have recovered from this incident, the near was unfolding. After spending a week confined possibility of a diplomatic disaster by three During the past year, the infamous Ball in a hotel, the three players finally received UCLA players does concern the future of in- family has appeared as a consistent front page confirmation of their release. President Trump ternational relations with regards to sports. news story. The family rose to stardom due to claimed that he was responsible for their re- When the three players returned to the their son, , and his exceptional per- lease after a conversation with President Xi of formance for the Lakers. United States, they were suspended indefi- China. When interviewed by the media, Lian- nitely from playing basketball at UCLA. Lavar Lavar Ball, the boisterous father of the Ball gelo Ball expresses his regret over causing a Ball has claimed that he does not believe that family, has made bold statements regarding potential international disaster. his son should serve the indefinite suspension. his son Lonzo being better than Golden States’ The incident sparked a heated con- Steph Curry and the whole college division as Recently, Lavar Ball has made headlines flict between Lavar Ball and President Trump. by pulling his youngest and arguably most well as being a lottery pick in the first round The President tweeted the following: “It wasn’t of the NBA draft. However, all of this current talented son, Lamelo Ball, out of Chino Hills the White House, it wasn’t the State Depart- High School. Lavar Ball has been known to commotion has strained the relationship be- ment, it wasn’t father LaVar’s so-called people tween the media and the family, resulting in make extremely quick and brash decisions. on the ground in China that got his son out of Also, recently Lavar Ball also decided to with- constant news stories appearing on national a long term prison sentence - IT WAS ME... television. draw Liangelo Ball from enrollment at UCLA Just think LaVar, you could have spent the next and remove him from the basketball team. Recent headlines have caught the atten- 5 to 10 years during Thanksgiving with your The plan currently, Lavar claims, is for his tion of everyday citizens and put a stigma on son in China, but no NBA contract to support two younger boys Liangelo and Lamelo to be- the Ball family name. The middle child of the you. But remember LaVar, shoplifting is NOT come professional basketball players and play family, Liangelo Ball, as well as two other a little thing. It’s a really big deal, especially in in Europe on the same team. The two boys UCLA players, have been accused of shoplift- China. Ungrateful fool!” ing name-brand products from several stores in have signed a one year contract for a basket- Lavar responded by saying,“Let him do his ball team in Lithuania named Prienu Vytautas. China. Video footage from CNN provided sol- political affairs and let me handle my son and It is unclear whether both boys will have id evidence of the three players stealing glasses let’s just stay in our lane... Tell the talent to make it to the NBA; however, La- from a Louis Vuitton store. In China shoplift- to have a great Thanksgiving,” and he sent var Ball states his desire to send all three of his ing is considered a major crime that can result President Trump a pair of the family’s brand boys to play in the NBA for the Lakers. in a prison sentence of up to ten years. of shoes.

Page 2, THE SUN DEVILS’ ADVOCATE, December 21st, 2017 News International Community Aids Iranian Earthquake

by Emily Amspoker is also extreme. The United States Geologi- cal Study estimated that the total cost of the Imagine you are sitting at home on a Sun- earthquake’s damage is around 100 million US day evening and the ground begins to tremble. dollars or over 3 trillion Iranian rials. This cost Perhaps you do not feel it at first, but eventual- is shouldered by the government, but several ly your house starts shaking, collapsing around countries have contributed foreign aid. you. You run out of your house, and when you The first of these countries was Turkey, get outside, all you see is destruction. As far as who supplied aid in the form of 4,000 tents and the eye can see, your hometown is unrecogniz- 7,000 blankets, as well as financial aid given to able. the Iranian Red Crescent. Similarly, Italy sent While this might seem terrifying, this is just a plane containing tents, blankets, and even a small fraction of the horror that people liv- mobile kitchens the day after the earthquake. ing on the Iran-Iraq border experienced when Several other entities, including the European an earthquake struck on November 12, 2017. Union, have offered aid. However, in the Unit- Graphic by Jessica Garcia The earthquake’s seismic activity was ranked a ed States, it’s nearly impossible to supply aid from foreign organizations or from individual 7.3 on the Richter scale, .3 points higher than to many Iranian organizations working to pro- Iranians. the 2010 earthquake in Haiti. The earthquake vide relief due to the multitudinous economic The ruling powers imposed martial law affected many places throughout the Middle sanctions put in place by the Office of Foreign in the devastated region of Sarpol-E-Hasab, East, from Kuwait to the United Arab Emir- Assets Control. One can, however, donate to which only seemed to aggravate the situation. ates. However, the worst effects were felt in several smaller organizations approved by the Furthermore, these Islamic Republic forces the Iranian region of Sarpol-e-Zahab. This re- OFAC. have confiscated relief supplies and resold gion is prone to earthquakes, as it is located There have also been many celebrities pro- them, leading to an increased number of deaths, near the fault line between the Eurasian and viding financial aid and public awareness to the according to the Huffington Post. This regime Arabian tectonic plates. Due to its high mag- earthquake and its aftermath. Perhaps the most has also received criticism, Forbes claims, for nitude, this earthquake was much deadlier than notable case being Iranian athletes auctioning possibly causing more damage, as much of the the last in 2012, claiming around 530 lives. off their medals to raise money for the vic- structural damage to government-issued hous- The impact of this earthquake on the popu- tims of the earthquake. These athletes include ing can be attributed to poor construction. lace is enormous. Throughout the region, build- Kianosh Rostami, an Iranian weightlifter who The government has even refused aid from ings have been destroyed, rendering thousands won gold at Rio 2016, and Sareh Javanmardi, Israel based on political enmity. Overall, this homeless and an estimated 7,400 injured. On a member of the Iranian Paralympics team who earthquake has displayed the inefficiency of top of that, one of the main gas plants in the competes in shooting. the Iranian regime and their inability to put region has been shut down, impairing people’s However, the most striking aspect of the aside other political and economic interests in ability to both heat their homes and cook food. earthquake’s aftermath is the Iranian govern- order to help their devastated population and There have been over 150 aftershocks, leading ment’s response. Days after the earthquake, rebuild what has been lost. to even more damage. the ruling regime of Iran did not provide any The economic impact of the earthquake aid to its people; instead, most of the aid came Trump Proposes New Tax Brackets they currently do. Lower-income families who 39.6%. On the other hand, the Senate Republi- by Abby Amann do not pay federal income taxes are the least cans have outlined 7 tax brackets with changes The Trump Administration recently out- likely to benefit from this new plan because to the rates and income ranges associated with lined a new tax plan shifting tax brackets and actions such as increases in earned-income each one. Those brackets are 10%, 12%, 22%, rates for the upper and lower classes. Accord- tax credit are no longer viable. These strongly 24%, 32%, 35%, and 38.5%. Under the House ing to , many people be- benefit lower-income families because they al- Republicans’ plan, many pre-existing deduc- lieve that this plan does not have any direct low for a higher income and therefore a better tions would be eliminated, including the the benefits for the lower third of the U.S. popula- quality life. student loan deduction and local income tax tion with regards to socioeconomic status. While the goal of this tax plan is to, ac- deduction. The tax plan greatly reduces the tax on busi- cording to President Trump, “take care of our For students with debt, this new tax plan ness income, which primarily benefits those people, to rebuild our nation and to fight for could increase their bill; however, other parts holding corporate equity. It also eliminates our great American workers,” the reality is of the plan could offset these changes depend- the estate tax, giving an advantage to only the that Trump is proposing tax cuts during a time ing on what sections pass. Graduate students extremely wealthy families, which will seem- when the economy is greatly expanding, which could also be negatively affected by the pro- ingly act as a safety net for tax avoidance, the could ultimately decrease its expansion. posed plan, and for those who grow up outside Trump Administration included. The new tax brackets have recently come of the upper class, graduate school could be- out, outlining exactly how this new plan will come an almost unachievable dream. While The last component of the new tax plan will the new tax plan is intended to be “progres- supposedly reduce the taxes paid by middle- play out. According to Business Insider, the House Republicans have proposed four fed- sive-thinking,” only time will tell whether or class families, but will more likely end up not its effects can be labeled as so. making many families pay more taxes than eral income tax brackets, 12%, 25%, 35%, and THE SUN DEVILS’ ADVOCATE, December 21st, 2017 Page 3 Features What’s Cool In The Upper School? by Julia Doyle, Caroline Oudet, Izzy Haifleigh, and Adelaide Hanson

As 2017 is slowly dying, so is the student body’s motivation. Many students have felt like this extra week in between Thanksgiving and Win- ter Break has added an indescribable layer of stress. Because more holi- day prep time is normally necessary, the end of this semester has felt like a razor scooter to the ankle. But now that Spotify has created the 2017 Holiday Hits album, students have something to look forward to. Two weeks off of school will be a needed time to destress, load up on cookies, and nap the days away. Students had some fun opinions about the end of this semester, and it is only right to share them with the community. With- out hesitation, here is the last “What’s Cool in the Upper School” survey of 2017! Have fun reading this with a cup of hot cocoa and a warm pet snuggled on your lap.

What are your favorite things about the holidays?

The Sun Devils’ News Editors Sports Editors Claire Hutchison...... [email protected] Emma Boatman...... [email protected] Andrew Park...... [email protected] Reagen Haecker...... [email protected] Advocate Commentary Editor Photography Editors is a monthly publication of Tucker Hamilton...... [email protected] Andrew Goldblatt...... [email protected] Kent Denver School, Willa Sobel...... [email protected] Cordelia Lowry...... [email protected] located at 4000 E. Quincy Ave., Features Editors Graphics Editor Englewood, Colorado 80110 303-770-7660 Isabel Haifleigh...... [email protected] Alex Wimer...... [email protected] Adelaide Hanson...... [email protected] Faculty Advisors Editors in Chief Arts and Entertainment Editors Logan Brown...... [email protected] Ashley [email protected] Caroline Casey...... [email protected] Katie Collamore...... [email protected] Sophia [email protected] Kayla Tuchman...... [email protected] Printer...... Southeast Denver Graphics Page 4, THE SUN DEVILS’ ADVOCATE, December 21st, 2017 Features Ask The Advocate How should juniors set themselves up for the What are some good winter activities? by Anonymous college process? Yay! Winter is the best season because How do students survive the walk up from the If I could give any advice on this topic, it there are so many fun things to do. My per- Sophomore lot? would be to start as early as possible. Try mak- sonal favorite thing to do in the winter is ski! ing a list of weekly things you want to accom- Hitting the slopes with friends and family is Sophomores, I promise you every Kent plish. This way, you can keep yourself in check always fun no matter what level you are. If upperclassman can relate to how you feel right and won’t have to worry about writing your es- skiing or snowboarding isn’t your style, that’s now. As a junior - yes, a junior - I had to park say a week before your applications are due! okay. You can go ice skating! This can be done in the sophomore parking lot. I can vouch for Also, do your main Common App (basic info) anywhere–in Denver and in the mountains. If how miserable it is, especially in the winter. the summer before senior year. This way, you you just don’t like being outside (I get it, it’s Here are some ways to make it more bearable. won’t have to do annoying busy work while cold) you should do some holiday baking, or Find a friend - the walk goes by much faster also juggling school, sports, and writing sup- cozy up by the fire with some hot chocolate or when you have someone to talk to! I would plements. In addition to doing the main Com- a cup of apple cider. For our sports lovers out also recommend bringing hand warmers. That mon App in the summer, I would recommend there–hockey and basketball games are super sounds a little extra, I know, but once it gets starting your essay as early as you possibly can fun. Go out and support KDS athletics! Woo! cold you will thank me. If this seems to be (maybe even at the end of junior year!). Most too extreme for you, I would also recommend essay prompts are pretty broad - and you can keeping gloves in your car, or carrying a hot look up prompts used in previous years - so beverage on your way up (Starbucks holiday you can really write anything. Also, don’t hesi- drinks are the best). It’s also helpful to plan tate to send your college counselor an email or on arriving to school a little bit earlier than schedule a meeting with them. I promise that you normally would because I think we can they know what they are doing and will make all relate to getting a few too many first-period the process much easier for you. Good luck! tardies. Don’t worry though, before you know it you will be a senior and will no longer have to trek what feels like miles to get to your first class. Photo by Andrew Goldblatt Appreciating Our Backbone

by Ashley Capoot the special bond that staff members share with ing up a piece of trash or smiling at a main- one another: “Everyone is so nice and friendly. tenance worker in the hall means more than As Kent students pour out of the upper It feels like a big home here.” students might think. school after a long day of classes, the campus Kyla is a relatively new member of undergoes an unbelievable transformation. the Kent community, but she already has her Vacuums, mops, and brooms seem to materi- hands full. She began her position as Admin- alize out of thin air and wipe away the rem- istrative Assistant in March of 2017, and is nants of the day. Trash is thrown out, chairs are responsible for organizing the finances and pushed in, tables are arranged, and boards are the schedules for the ground and maintenance scrubbed clean in preparation for another full crews on campus. She is at Kent every day to day of learning. make sure that everything runs “as smoothly Many students fail to recognize the and efficiently as possible.” importance of this cleaning process from day Unfortunately, this means that Kyla to day, but without it, Kent Denver would look handles some of the more frightening prob- more like a landfill than an institution. Stu- lems that plague campus. She explained, “We dents are messy, and the spotless campus that deal with a lot of snakes and other animals. they find every morning only exists due to the There was one time where one of the mainte- hard work and dedication of the maintenance nance guys noticed a snake was in the lake, and staff. he saw a big fish come up and grab the snake “Some of our [staff members] work and pull it under. It was crazy!” shifts that are up to ten hours long,” explained Students don’t often see the mainte- Kyla Durbin, the Administrative Assistant to nance staff in action, but they are truly a vital the General Manager of maintenance. This is part of the Kent Denver community. However, clearly a significant undertaking, but Kyla was groundwork and maintenance are often thank- quick to point out the benefits of the job and less professions, and Kyla explained that pick- Graphic by Sophia Rase

THE SUN DEVILS’ ADVOCATE, December 21st, 2017 Page 5 Sports Girls’ Basketball Has High Hopes Sun Devils at halftime 23-18, but with at least After two wins already that week, the team by Avery Munn and Natalie Gendelman eight points a quarter and a stunning sixteen was looking forward to traveling to Greeley, points in the fourth quarter, Kent Denver was Colorado for their big game against a major The Kent Denver Girls Basketball team is able to leave Evergreen with a five point vic- competitor, Eaton High School. The theme of expecting a very successful season after new tory. the game was revenge for the seniors. During additions to the program and an impressive the seniors’ sophomore year, they lost to Eaton week of tryouts. The team had another game against Mani- tou Springs on Friday December 1, 2017. in the first round of the playoffs by two points. The seven senior leaders on the varsity Manitou Springs has been known to be a very The devils expected Eaton to be a hard team team this year are excited about the season, strong program in years past, but this year the to beat and were losing at halftime by thirteen along with the juniors and sophomores who Sun Devils were able to keep the game close. points. However, the team scored twenty-eight make up the team. Junior Olivia Schmergel Unfortunately, Kent Denver lost by thirteen points in the second half leading to a four point says that she is hoping for the team to have points, but they kept the score tight through- win. They went home happy after a successful strong chemistry because the closer the team out the game due to amazing performances week of beating two undefeated teams. is, the easier it will be for them to support each by seniors Julia Doyle and Monica Royal. The success of the team is partly because of other and play successfully. So far this season, With three minutes left in the fourth quarter, the amazing team chemistry. Sophomore Mika practices have consisted of everything from Manitou Springs led Kent Denver by only five Fisher describes the team as being “off to a re- shooting drills and five on five to defensive ex- points. Coach Judd and the Devils saw both ally great start” because of the senior’s leader- ercises and playmaking, which have improved games as successes and were excited for their ship. Everyone on the team feels included by the team dynamic and the individual skill level next games. the seniors: sophomore Bailey Parkhouse says, of each player as well. The girls basketball team put their first “all of the seniors and juniors on the team are The team is excited to have Coach Greg loss behind them by beating University High great. Ever since I joined as a freshman I have Chalfin as a new assistant coach for varsity. School? by four points on Tuesday December felt included and excited to be a part of the His past experience as a basketball player dur- 5, 2017. The devils led University for most of team.” ing his high school career has been crucial to the game and were excited to win against an- The devils have had a strong start facing the team’s development defensively so far. Se- other hard opponent. some of the hardest opponents in their sched- nior Sophia Reynolds is also looking forward On Thursday December 7, 2017, the Devils ule. They recently won a tournament held by St. to the season and said that her main focus and Mary’s Academy for the second year in a row. goal for the team is to “get the W every single had an excellent performance by many play- ers on the team, leading to an easy win against They won all three of their games throughout game.” She feels confident in the closeness of December 14th and December 16th. The team the team and their success so far. DSST Stapleton. The collaboration between starters, along with strong performances by un- is looking forward to continue their success Both JV and Varsity had their first game derclassmen, allowed the team to keep DSST when they return from winter break. on Wednesday, November 29th against Clear to one point in the first quarter and score at Creek. I the varsity game Clear Creek led the least seven points in each quarter. Girls’ Swimming Tests the Water their performance has only raised the team’s standard. Two of the four by Allie Mandava members of the 200 Medley Relay A team are freshmen: Jolie Kim and Maylin Pollack. Two of the freshmen have already achieved state quali- The girls’ Swim and Dive team has just begun what they know is fying times, despite only having competed in one meet. going to be an incredible season. Last year’s season was very successful, as the team finished first in the league and many members competed in The team is a majority underclassmen, with five freshmen and six the state finals. Although the team has big shoes to fill, this year’s group sophomores. Despite this, each of them has proved they are capable of of nineteen swimmers and divers has seven seniors to lead them into yet competing with the Kent Denver program. The senior captains, Claire another amazing season. Hutchison and Jayne Fraser, have high hopes for their team. The girls would love some more support as they embark on the rest of their al- The girls competed in their first and only home meet of the sea- ready promising season. son against St. Mary’s Academy on November 30, 2017. Of the twelve events at the meet, Kent Denver participants placed first in eleven events. The swim team had a meet last Wednesday at Manual High School. The team had several swimmers who earned first in two events. Senior The team won the meet, beating four other teams. This also happened Sarah Anderson got first in both the 100 Fly and the 200 Individual Med- to be their senior meet. Senior Claire Hutchison swam the 100 fly and ley. Amber Brooks, sophomore and long-distance swimmer, placed first 200 free. in both the 200 Free and the 500 Free. Freshman Jolie Kim, who began The swim team has another home meet this Thursday, December 21, swimming at the age of six, has proved herself to be an especially strong 2017 against St. Mary’s High School. addition to the team, as she earned first place in the 50 Free as well as the 100 Breast, despite the meet being the first of her Kent Denver swim- ming career. While there are only four other freshmen on the team, they have each held their own in the presence of many upperclassmen, and Page 6, THE SUN DEVILS’ ADVOCATE, December 21st, 2017 Sports Strength and Conditioning: Gaining Popularity

by Caley Capoot Using new and improved personalized tent in designing workouts/ programs that are Kent Denver equipment, students gain a basic both effective and specific to their goals.” An- understanding of different types of workouts ticipation for the future of the class is quickly You may notice the weight room is extra such as many reps/rounds as possible or AM- increasing as more and more students sign up crowded this year, as about fifteen students ev- RAP, as it’s commonly referred to, and every and popularity continues to grow. In the com- ery day push themselves to their limits, shak- minute on the minute (EMOM). Participants ing years, Laura is hoping to start more lev- ing as they finish the second minute of their in the class also take days to learn about the els in order to cater to students with different plank and sweating as they pull themselves different tissues and muscles of the body. The abilities. over the pull up bar. The year-old Strength and importance of recovery is stressed, as a signifi- Conditioning class is off to another great start cant amount of time is dedicated rolling out. after just ending the fall course. Taking place Using foam rollers, students properly prepare twice a week from 3:30 to 4:30, the class is their bodies for an intense workout and learn perfect for students who are busy with extra- to allow for recovery. curriculars or just want to stay in shape in their off-season. Perhaps more important than the Using the tools they gained throughout the actual workouts is what the students take away course of the season, students are required to from instructor Laura Bordeaux’s class. Laura lead their own ten minute workout at the end says, “I believe every student should graduate of the class. Sophomore Ashley Kim, who par- high school and have a basic understanding of ticipated in the class last year says, “I think what a well-rounded workout is, how to walk this was a great way to end the class. It really into any weight room and feel comfortable allowed everyone to showcase the skills they both being there and executing a workout on learned from Laura.” After completing the Graphic by Alex Wimer their own.” course, Laura hopes each student is “compe- Boys’ Basketball: Looking to Contend

by Molly Miller time. Both teams managed to rack up eleven points. Junior Coby Gold scored five points for The Kent Denver Boys’ Basketball season the Sun Devils in the fourth in order to secure is now in full swing after their home opener the win. He had help from Doyle, who scored against Bayfield. This game was part of the four points in the last quarter. Senior captain 8th Herman Schayes Memorial Tournament, Benan Ersek also put up two points on the which is in honor of head coach Todd Schayes’ board. This left the final score at 52-49, with grandfather. The teams included in the tour- an exciting win for Kent. nament have traditionally been Kent Denver, Bayfield, St. Mary’s, and The Pinnacle. The The team continued their efforts into Sat- boys started out against Bayfield High School urday’s game of the tournament, coming out on Friday, December 1st. This was the only victorious against St. Mary’s High School in time this season that the two teams will meet. Colorado Springs. The final score of that game was 77-42 Kent: a much larger margin. Over- The game started out with 17 points for the all, the weekend can be considered a success Sun Devils and 8 for Bayfield in the first quar- and was a great way, like always, to get the ter. Kent was able to carry their momentum players and fans ready for an entertaining and into half time, leading with a score of 28-20. eventful basketball season. Junior James Doyle led the team in points after two quarters with five baskets: four two-point Since the opening tournament, the team has shots and one three-pointer. continued their winning streak at home and on the road. They went on to collect wins against The third quarter showed a shift in dynam- University High School and James Irwin Char- ics as Bayfield started to catch up to Kent Den- ter High School, both by a margin of over ten ver. The score at the end of the quarter was 41- points. For another home win, the program 38 Kent Denver. Bayfield’s effort to find the played Eaton High School, winning by 25 basket was led by Ryan Phelps who had 9 out points. Looking ahead to second semester ball, Photos by Andrew Goldblatt of the 18 points the team scored in the third. the Kent Denver Boys’ Varsity team will play With such a close score in the third quarter in twelve regular season games and they are Top: Haiden Citron looks to pass and the Devils only leading by three points, it working hard to make it into post-season play. Bottom: Benan Ersek drives to the all came down to the last 8 minutes of game basket.

THE SUN DEVILS’ ADVOCATE, December 21st, 2017 Page 7 Sports KDS Puck: The Rise Continues ting into the net at high speed. Courage and by Abby Wilkinson and Sofia Palumbo mental toughness are also essential to success in this position. KDS puck, or the Kent Denver hockey team, is off to a great start after winning their While the team is very talented on the ice, first game against the Liberty Lancers. The fi- they are also very close off the ice. Junior nal score of the game was 8-0 Kent Denver. Charlie Wilkinson says that they have a “su- While the game was tied at the end of the first per close team and everyone is out there to period, the team scored four goals in each of get better every day.” Every year the Hockey the next two periods with goals scored by se- team continues to get better and the Kent com- nior? Will Caulkins, sophomore? Will Kandel, munity wishes them the best of luck this year. two goals scored by freshman Samuel Choi, Come and support the hockey team throughout and three goals scored by sophomore, number their season as they play, especially when they 11, Ben Zimmerman. have home games at Denver University! #ther- Above: Willy Verneris pushes past a isecontinues They started off the season by going to defender. Colorado Springs and winning all of their Below: Ben Filerman looks to scrimmages. The team is led by head coach score. Marty Wittmer, along with Wesley Ballantyne and Pat Scobie. The coaches/team? have high hopes for the hockey season this year. The team has a varsity and junior varsity team, both of which practice every day after school at the University of Denver. Throughout the season, the team will face a range of teams, from Steamboat High School? to Regis Jesuit. Hockey is both a physical and high-risk game. The ability to ice skate with a stick in hand, all while trying to get the puck in the Photo by Cordelia Lowry goal, is a hard skill to master. One of the most difficult positions is goalie, played by sopho- Tommy Gallagher gets into position more AJ Dichiara for Kent. To be a goalie, one to accept a pass. Photos by Andrew Goldblatt needs fast reflexes to stop the puck from get- Faculty Take Advantage of the New Weight Room

by Phil Roseto Sady Tobin and Laura Bordeaux also host evening workouts from 5:30 - 6:30pm so fac- Every Tuesday and Thursday, at least a ulty can unwind from a stressful day of work. dozen teachers and faculty members gather in These workouts, every Monday and Wednes- the fieldhouse to start their day with a quick day, are a lot more accessible for staff mem- morning workout. These classes, led by faculty bers who are not willing, or simply cannot and trainers Sady Tobin and Laura Bordeaux, make, the early morning workouts. Utilizing are a great way for teachers to join together for the revamped weight room, designed and im- a morning exercise session. plemented by Tobin and Bordeaux, has been key in making sure every teacher get a healthy The morning workouts, beginning around and safe hour of exercise. 6:15am, are important to the health and well- ness of all teachers who are willing to partici- The two also host the Parent Association pate. The hour long sessions provide optimal Workouts, which Bosick recently attended as times for teachers to get a workout in before well. Tobin and Bordeaux have been the key making their way up to the upper school for actors maintaining a healthy and safe com- plenty of times to meet with students before munity, not only for the students but for the the day begins. faculty and staff as well. Photo by Ashley Capoot The Sun Devils’ Advocate met with Mark The revamped weight room Bosick, a middle school science teacher, who increases the desire for faculty and frequently attends these sessions. Bosick is usually seen in the gym after school, and will students to use it. occasionally make an appearance at the morn- ing workouts. Page 8, THE SUN DEVILS’ ADVOCATE, December 21st, 2017 Arts & Entertainment Speaking Spanish Beyond The Classroom that he wanted his kids and wife to have the bote o un guía turístico, yo hablaba con ellos byAdelaide Hanson best possible life, and raising his family in La en Español. Paz would not give them that life. Even though I have studied the Spanish language for the Recuerdo una conversación yo tuve con he misses them, he knows that his kids are get- un conductor de bote. Él se llamaba Manuel y past six years, and it has been a great journey! ting a better education and his wife has a bet- I feel that learning Spanish is a necessary lan- era muy interesante. Manuel habló sobre cómo ter life because of it. I was so inspired by his vive su familia en los Estados Unidos, pero él guage to learn because it is the second most story and so happy I got to talk to him. Without popular language in the United States. I want- se quedó en México para trabajar. Vive en La Spanish, this conversation would not have hap- Paz, que es un destino turístico común para las ed to understand Spanish to connect with more pened. people. Also, I love to practice my skills in aguas bonitas y excelentes sitios de buceo con Spanish speaking countries to put my knowl- This simple conversation reminded me that ballenas azules. Trabaja todo el día en barcos edge to the test. language breaks down the barrier that different por el Golfo de , y envía la mayor cultures often provide. Showing these people parte de sus ganancias a los Estados Unidos a Two years ago I had the privilege of going that I was willing to try, even when I made su familia. Le pregunté por qué se quedó en to Baja California, the peninsula on the west- conjugation errors or forgot a word, made Baja California, y él me dijo que quería que sus ern side of Mexico, with my family. Baja Cali- them want to engage and learn more about me hijos y esposa tuvieran la mejor vida posible, fornia is one of the sovereign Mexican states, and my culture. y criar a su familia en La Paz no les dan esa and the number one language spoken there is ¡He estudiado español durante seis años, y vida. A pesar de que los extraña, él sabe que Spanish. On our trip, I encountered many peo- sus hijos están recibiendo una mejor educación ple with whom I could speak. Every time we fue una decisión muy buena! Siento que apren- der Español es necesario de aprender porque es y que su esposa tiene una vida mejor por eso. had a waiter, boat driver, or tour guide, I forced Yo estaba tan inspirada por su historia, que myself to talk to them in Spanish. el segundo idioma más hablado en los Estados Unidos. Quería entender Español para conec- me hizo tan feliz de poder hablar con él. Sin I remember having one conversation with tarme con más personas aquí en mi país. Tam- el conocimiento de español, esta conversación a boat driver named Manuel that was very in- bién, me encanta practicar la lengua en países nunca hubiera ocurrido. teresting. Manuel talked about how his fam- hispanos. Esta simple conversación me recordó que ily lives in the United States, but he stayed in el lenguaje rompe la barrera que a menudo pro- Mexico to work. He lives in La Paz, which is Hace dos años que yo tuve el privilegio de ir a Baja California, la península al lado de porcionan las diferentes culturas. Mostrando a a common tourist destination for the clear wa- estas personas que estaba dispuesta a probar ter and great diving sites with blue whales. He México, con mi familia. Baja California es un estado de México, y el idioma principal que hablar el lenguaje, incluso cuando cometí er- works all day driving boats around the Golfo rores de conjugación u olvidé la palabra, les de California, and sends most of his earnings se habla es Español. En nuestro viaje, hablaba con muchas personas en Español. Cada vez hizo querer participar y aprender más sobre mí to the United States to his family. I asked him y mi cultura. why he stayed in Baja California. He told me que teníamos un camarero, un conductor de Going With The Flow Tai Chi is very important to Chinese cul- by Lennon Headlee ture. A lot of people practice Tai Chi in China. 太极拳是一个很重要的中国文化。 An important method of Tai Chi is the divert- 在中国，很多人打太极拳。太极拳的 ing force, which requires a lot of practice. To 一个很重要的方法是化，化得很。要 do it, your body should be relaxed. If you’re 做化，你的身体放松，如果你，你不 nervous, you can’t use the diverting force. 能用化。如果你放松的花，你的身体 However, if you relax, your body will become 会很干，好象一杯干的水。如果水里 clean like a cup of pure water. If something is 有一个西，你可以看得很清楚。很多 confusing, you can see it clearly. Many types 种太极拳都用个方法。太极拳从国以 of Tai Chi use this method. Tai Chi started 前开始，太极拳来自哲学。它李小的 before the Warring States period and comes 印象很大，截拳道的就来自太极。李 from philosophy. Tai Chi had a large impact on 小 有很多打太极拳的照片。他的太极 Bruce Lee. Jie Quan Dao’s sign came from Tai 功夫非常好，在影里他跳来跳去，就 Chi’s sign. Bruce Lee has many photos of him- 是了放松，静下来。太极拳是身体里 self doing Tai Chi. His Tai Chi Kung Fu is very 的力量，不是手上的力量。太极拳很 good. In the movies, he jumps here and there 容易，但是好不容易。太极拳可以帮 just to relax and calm down. Tai Chi is strength 你找到自我。人常常想得到很多西， that comes from the body, not from the hand. It 但是生活常常得你放下。太极拳你放 is easy to practice, but difficult to practice well. 下，空，放下担才自己。是一种智 Tai Chi can helps individuals to find them- 慧。 selves. People want to get many things, but in life, you often have to let go. Tai Chi asks you to let go and practice “emptiness.” Put down Photo by Sophia Rase your burdens, and then you can get to know yourself. This is wisdom. THE SUN DEVILS’ ADVOCATE, December 21st, 2017 Page 9 Arts and Entertainment Swift Upholds Her “Reputation”

by Kayla Tuchman and Willa Sobel I Did Something Bad stripped down piano and sweet lyrics give it We give this song a 10/10. It is perfect for a warm/somber, calm after the storm vibe, but If you follow pop culture whatsoever (any- blasting in your car and singing at the top of instead of a storm there’s a wild New Year’s where on a scale from a morning Daily Mail your lungs. Taylor stays true to her vengeful Eve party, and the calm is unwavering com- check on Snapchat to a “Keeping Up With the tendencies in the unapologetic lyrics and spic- panionship. Kardashians” binge) you would know about es up the song with an innovative chorus and Gorgeous the highly anticipated release of Taylor Swift’s bridge. I Did Something Bad is the epitome of Ok, we’ll admit this isn’t the best example latest album “reputation.” To let her fans know Taylor’s new look! something big was coming, Swift completely of Taylor’s lyric writing ability, and the baby wiped her social media prior to its release and Don’t Blame Me voice saying “gorgeous” at the beginning is posted cryptic videos of snakes, in reference This song wins for most relatable on the al- odd, but we like this one for a reason we can’t to her multiple feuds with celebrities such as bum (just us? ok). This moody song touches on quite put our finger on. Simply put, it’s fun and Kanye West. She also periodically gifted fans the most well known Taylor Swift stereotype: a little weird and nothing will stop us from with sneak peaks of new singles. We’re here, that she’s completely boy crazy, but instead she shamelessly belting out, “you’re so gorgeous. as your resident Taylor Swift experts, to break turns the tables and continues the unapologetic Dress down the best songs on the album and let you theme with lyrics like, “Don’t blame me, love All we can say for this one is Taylor Swift know which songs deserve to be played on re- made me crazy,” and “I’ve been breakin’ hearts is all grown up now. This song is racy and a lit- peat. a long time.” tle provocative and was a surprise to all of her Getaway Car fans but this song is a total sing-along. Dress is written about a secret love affair and Taylor’s We have a clear vision for a Bonnie and lyrics perfectly and effortlessly capture this Clyde-esque crime theme music video for this whimsical movie-like romance. one. Based on a love triangle, “Getaway Car” tells the story of Taylor bouncing from one Delicate boyfriend to another with a fun, melodic, and Taylor again sings about her reputation and slightly emotional synthy tune. how her new love interest looks past it and New Year’s Day loves her anyway. This song is honest and real- ly lets her audience know that although Taylor The only truly slow song on the album, this is an A list celebrity, she still is self conscious one is perfect for all the hopeless romantics in new relationships. So relatable! who were hoping for more “Back To Decem- Graphic by Alex Wimer ber” and “White Horse”-esque ballads. It’s A Musical Of Much Importance ity to the story. ished product, but when you see the evolution by Olivia Cohen One of the unique facets of, “A Man of No of the songs, set, and acting from beginning to end, it’s amazing.” The theater department at Kent has had Importance” is that, apart from Alfie, the sec- no shortage of successful musicals. From ondary leads have equal roles. Rather than ac- In addition to the unique configuration of “Grease,” to “Oliver,” to last year’s incredible centuating the storyline, the objective of this the musical, “A Man of No Importance” is production of “The Sound of Music,” students particular musical is to highlight the singular- bound for success because of the strong sense aren’t strangers to acting in classic, sing-along ity of Alfie’s personality and thus the juxtapo- of siblinghood and camaraderie between mem- type shows. This year’s Spring play, however, sition between his view of himself and his role bers of the cast. Anna describes the theater seems to break the mold. “A Man of No Impor- in the lives of other people. Because of this, community as her “family.” Another sopho- tance,” based off of the 1994 Albert Finney’s all of the secondary leads have equal weight. more, Finn Hagerty, agrees, commenting that film and featuring music by Stephen Flaherty Kent’s adaptation of the play will feature Ty- “the people are the best thing about the musical and Lynn Ahrens, follows a Dublin theater ler Whitaker as the lead, Alfie. The remaining because they are always fun and great to work group whose leader, a bus driver named Alfie, secondary leads will be Esther Omegba, Flynn with.” This year, Finn will be playing two is bent upon staging a performance of, “Sa- Zook, Kristen Schmidt, and Aiden Woodard. parts, Oscar Wilde and Rasher Flynn. When lome” at his church, despite the disapproval of There is a significant amount of planning asked about his thoughts on the Spring produc- Church authorities. and work that goes into the production of a tion, he said that he is “excited to just be part of the whole thing again.” Thanks to the compan- The structure of the musical is rather con- show. Each member of the cast practices for hours after school, and many participate in ionship and diversity of the cast, as well as the temporary: the day-to-day life of the main faculty’s tireless work, the Kent community is character, Alfie, who considers himself to be “a several other time-consuming extra curricu- lars. Sophomore Anna Veltri, who participated similarly eager to experience another fantastic man of no importance,” is narrated by the rest performance this spring. of the cast in a fashion similar to the chorus in in last year’s “The Sound of Music,” says that, Greek plays. As the musical progresses, new “the time and effort that Mr. Ellis, the tech characters appear, adding depth and complex- crew, and just everyone [puts] into the produc- tion is incredible. Most people just see the fin- Page 10, THE SUN DEVILS’ ADVOCATE, December 21st, 2017 Arts and Entertainment What Makes A Classic? fortlessly as if it were an extension of his body. more Eliot Hodges 11 years to master, some- by Sidney Chong Next, Phoebe Wang and Bailey Amspoker each thing that he started at a mere four years old. produce notes so low and sonorous, I didn’t Despite this, he said, “I love the nuance and How many times have you heard some- even know that they existed. Together these depth of feeling that can be expressed in clas- thing referred to as a classic, without ever re- students made me realize that what makes sical music--the melodies and themes are so ally knowing what that meant? classical music timeless is the people who play intricate and complex. What’s really exciting While there is no real concrete definition, it it. They are the historians who bring the artists about playing classical pieces is that every is generally agreed that a classic is something, back to life, even if only for a span of a sonata time you sit down to play, the piece is a little be it a piece of art or music, that has been re- or so. Fortunately, at Kent Denver, more than different depending on what I’m feeling at the vered over a long period of time. If this is all a couple of these historians grace our school, time or how I’m interpreting the music in the that it takes, then what are the qualifications and for one night they came together to bring moment.” It’s a sentiment almost as beautiful to be identified as classical music? In fifty, a the dead back to life. as the music it’s about. hundred, maybe even a thousand years from An amazing facet of classical music is the What makes classical music a “classic” now, will artists like Ed Sheeran and Drake be incredible complexity; somber one minute and lies not in the original composition, but rather regarded as the new Bach and Beethoven? It’s cheerful the next, the tone of each piece can in how each artist interprets these notes and feasible, but as sophomore Eleanor Sullivan’s change on a dime, leaving both the ear and the changes them to make it just a little bit their bow glides across the strings, creating a suc- brain pondering. This intricacy has captivated own. It’s about tying past into the present, for a cession of silkily smooth notes, I get the sense junior Ella Newcomb who explained, “I love beautiful moment when time is irrelevant and that it’s actually something more. how in many classical pieces it can change one can be swept up in the music. The Clas- The Classical Music Concert consisted of from a simple melody to a complex string of sical Music Concert allowed me to step away about an hour’s worth of music ranging from notes in an instant and still sound perfectly from myself into another time and headspace, strings instruments to percussion (the piano), aligned,” an aspect that is evident in the Italian and I am incredibly grateful to the musicians interspersed with vocal performances. One arias that she loves to sing. who performed for letting me experience that. minute I hear Jeffrey Zhou’s fingers gracefully Playing is a difficult skill that took sopho- flicker over the ivory keys of the piano as ef- Band Concert Energizes Students

by Zach Koo having a swell time is key.” Although, the said, “Think of the dancers.” For future events, budding Soul Band has faced a few problems visit the Azucartone’s Instagram or Snapchat, in its first few months, largely because of its both being @kentdenvermusic. It’s just before seven o’clock on a Thurs- need of more musicians. Talented vocalist, day night when the once bright Anschutz am- Priyanka Ramurthy [21’], explains, “The Soul phitheater loses all light. As a murmur arises Band is especially recruiting underclassmen to within the audience, the Soul Band and the come and join, and make it a trend… It will Azucartones wait behind the cryptic dark- be a great time together and celebrate school ness. The lights abruptly return in eight dif- spirit and make our community stronger!” ferent shades of orange and accompany the Soul Band’s interpretation of “Hold On, I’m With a ten song manifesto, the Azucartones Comin” by Sam and Dave. took the main stage in a unique performance that highlighted a wide variety of Latino cul- Kent Denver’s Latin Band and newly ture. Lead singer Mateo Manzanares [18’] formed Soul Band are two incredibly unique explains the Azucartones’ value of culture, ensembles. The Azucartones band integrates saying, “We all love and are connected to the Latino styling into Kent’s already unique music we play. It’s special to the band because sound, while the youthful Soul Band elegantly many in the Kent Denver community are not performs songs that one would assume are too regularly exposed to music from another cul- mature for their age. No matter their individual ture and region of the world.” Manzanares’ styling, both bands play with incredible profi- suave combination of Portuguese and Spanish ciency. singing along with his diverse dancing tech- The entirety of the Soul Band’s ensemble niques; allowed for a unique and engaging exuded an unforgeable confidence and passion performance. In addition to the Azucatone’s throughout their five-song showing, bringing Latino culture, a constant animated spirit was a relatively somber crowd into an absolute evident throughout the show. Kevin Chyung’s frenzy. Even the traditionally reserved bass- outstanding intensity and enthusiasm on sev- ist, pianist, and horn players expressed an ab- eral types of drums led a vigorous energy in normally dynamic energy. The Soul Band’s the room that was prevalent throughout the en- guitarist, sophomore John Karns, explains tirety of the show. When asked where he gets Photo by Andrew Goldblatt how the Soul Band manages to connect with such energy, Kevin merely did a spin move and a crowd. Karns claims, “Moving around and THE SUN DEVILS’ ADVOCATE, December 21st, 2017 Page 11 Commentary What Happens In Vegas... The legality of sex workers is under a regulations that protect both the prostitute and the customer, the industry great deal of scrutiny in the U.S. today. In leaves the community with an atrocious level of public health and safety other countries, however, this profession violations that are not beneficial for any party involved. On top of this, doesn’t carry the same negative connotation the NYPD is forced to spend time arresting nonviolent sex workers when as it does in our country. they otherwise could be putting a stop to violent crime, all the while In Canada, the Netherlands, France, and wasting taxpayer money. many other countries, this type of work has Let’s quickly examine the case of a 52-year-old resident of Hunts been legal for some time now. Domestically, Point named Barbara Terry. In 2011, The New York Times printed the the counties surrounding are fa- story of Ms. Terry and detailed the injustices of the prostitution business mous for being home to the only legal com- in Hunts Point. For nearly thirty years, Ms. Terry worked the streets of mercial fornication in the United States. the Bronx. She had completed two years of college when her husband Lukas Drexler Still, to look at Nevada alone when dis- left her and her two kids, and this series of events forced her to drop out Bruce Commentary cussing the subject would be to neglect the become a sex worker. She explains that on numerous occasions, some majority of prostitution that occurs in our disturbed customers didn’t face justice after abusing her because she country. Illegal prostitution frequently takes place in the U.S. and is often could not risk contacting the police. She explains in the piece that she accompanied by violent crimes. had been arrested over one hundred times throughout her tenure. Perhaps the most startling item from the article came when Ms. Terry was quoted While one major argument against legal sex work is that it is, by na- saying, “Most women don’t make it to my age out here.” A system that ture, immoral and brings about violence, I would argue that legalizing it sits passively, without reform, is also presiding over injustice and appall- would instead bring about a more moral outcome that would be safer and ing public health and safety violations. This calls for a drastic change. more beneficial for all involved parties. On the other end of the spectrum, in the surrounding counties of Las First, I want to address some concerns of sex work from both sides Vegas, while prostitution is allowed, it is also highly regulated, providing of the political aisle. The first concern, that I feel is well intentioned, is a safer and healthier environment for all parties involved. that legalization objectifies women and only benefits male consumers to the detriment of powerless sex workers. What I say to this is that legal- Legalization strips away the sketchy aspects of prostitution. Pander- ization doesn’t take away rights for women, but it actually grants them ing, or as it is colloquially called, “pimping,” is illegal according to Ne- greater protections. According to The Independent, female prostitutes are vada state law NRS 201.300. According to the statute, “A person who far more likely to be arrested and jailed than are the male customers even induces an adult to engage in prostitution, or to enter any place within though both are engaging in an illegal act. The laws keeping prostitu- [Nevada] in which prostitution is practiced, encouraged or allowed for tion illegal are not keeping women safe. Instead, they disproportionately the purpose of sexual conduct or prostitution is guilty of pandering which harm sex workers by giving them criminal records and kneecapping their is a category C felony and shall be punished.” Legalization takes power ability to lead productive lives. to earn revenue away from potentially dangerous procurers and gives it to the sex workers themselves. Legalization would also bring the issue out of the shadows where oversight and regulation would protect against violent encounters, STDs Also, one argument for panderers is that they give their prostitutes and sexual misconduct. Since prostitution is illegal, sex workers can be some sort of protection. Legalization eliminates this need, as prostitutes abused, and are unable to contact authorities for fear of being arrested. can contact the police freely, without fear of arrest. Eliminating the mid- Unfortunately, these offenders have no way of being brought to justice. It dleman is beneficial to sex workers because panderers take away a sig- is safe to say that legalization would create a safer environment in which nificant fraction of the revenue from such transactions. In fact, according sex workers could operate. Second, to address the immorality concern, to a 2016 Entrepreneur Magazine article, one interviewed sex worker I have to argue that from a freedom perspective, two consenting adults claimed she made “a little over $1 million” in one year. Comparing this should not be barred from engaging in copulation in the United States of case to the case of Barbara Terry demonstrates that the women fare much America. Why should it be illegal to sell something that it is legal to give better where prostitution is legalized. away? Instead of letting big government overreach dictate how people Another Nevada state law statute outlines that all sex workers must can do business and conduct their own private affairs, it seems to me the be tested early and regularly for harmful STDs. According to CNN, pros- smarter and more moral option to improve general health and general titutes tested before they can enter employment at a brothel, and must safety by legalizing prostitution. comply with “monthly blood testing.” This ensures that public health is In parts of this country where prostitution remains illegal, violent maintained. crimes, poor working conditions, and STDs ravage the sex work indus- Highly enforced legislation also ensures that people below the age of try. Let’s examine Hunts Point, Bronx in New York where sex work is il- eighteen do not wind up in the world of prostitution. Nevada state law legal. HBO produced four documentaries detailing the stunning situation indicates that major fines along with jail time will be enforced if someone in Hunts Point. Hunts Point is a place where violent crime runs rampant disobeys the sex trafficking statute. and sexually transmitted diseases affect nearly 33% of the population. In all, I think that sex work should be legalized across the entire U.S. The lack of public health and safety can be largely traced back to the I believe that the only way to resolve issues is for them brought out of the darkness where the expansive sex work industry operates. Because the depths and the darkness and into the light where they can be sufficiently industry functions in the shadow of illegality, regulations like decent pay addressed. Legalization, taxation, and regulation of prostitution would and benefits for the prostitutes, protections against STDs for- thecon undoubtedly bring about safer situations for all in the realm of sex work. sumers, and protections from violence over drug disputes that often ac- I think that it is time in this country that we stop policing and legislating company prostitution transactions are not present. Without the necessary morality. Page 12, THE SUN DEVILS’ ADVOCATE, December 21st, 2017 Commentary The European Giant’s Trial Sleeping Giants, whether in fairy tales its commitment not only to acronyms, but to their PESCO project. The such as Jack and the Beanstalk, or in real EU has clearly thought things through and addressed the means needed life, symbolize untapped power that is wait- to support its success. Although the European Union is committed to ing to be released. The European Union has PESCO as a way to both reignite the Union’s image as a meaningful won itself the title of sleeping giant through- and important institution, as well as strengthen countries’ ties via a more out its history. efficient and capable defense, it is also poses a significant risk; one that Today, with European bureaucracy, must be addressed. Brexit, and the ongoing migrant crisis, it First off, PESCO doesn’t solve all pressing issues facing European is easy to dismiss Europe and the Europe- defense. In fact, one of the biggest problems European forces face to- an Union as a whole. While the European day is their readiness. Readiness is a competition. Ultimately, one must Union has had many failures and setbacks, be more prepared for conflict than one’s enemy, and the European na- Timea Ryan Germany and France are right behind the tions are far behind. The British Army would need up to three months Commentary U.S., China, and Japan as the five largest to assemble a brigade to deploy to the Baltics. Germany, in comparison, economies in the world today. In fact, if would only need one month, but would have to borrow equipment from treated as a single country, the European Union would be the second others. This is obviously a weak point of European defense, and because largest economy in the world. As such, despite severe setbacks, the Eu- PESCO doesn’t address it, the actual meaningfulness of this deal is de- ropean Union still wields significant power and remains relevant on the batable. international stage. Diplomacy and cooperation require effort. When dealing with Eu- However, there is a lot of lingering uncertainty surrounding the future ropean defense, there are clear benefits to a cooperative approach, yet of the European Union. As the union has come to this realization, it has those come at a cost. While money may be saved from military purchases been frantically trying to rally and mend itself. Perhaps one of the most itself, other costs inevitably grow. PESCO members now must agree and obvious outcomes of this has been the launch of the Permanent Struc- cooperate on defense planning and funding. Far more will have to be tured Cooperation or PESCO. spent on lawyers and research, the scope of which is hard to gauge. This PESCO is supposed to be a comprehensive and powerful EU defense will, of course, lead to a more frustrating process as a union since vastly project. As of December seventh, 25 of the EU’s soon to be twenty seven different cultures and economies always find something to disagree on. members confirmed their participation. PESCO’s goal is to increase de- This in turn will lead to time and cost-consuming debates and slower fense cooperation and efficiency across the Union, a goal that enjoys implementation and purchases. At its most basic level, it is a trade-off. 75% of Europeans’ support and is much needed. In 2016, European Still, if European nations manage to use PESCO and defense opera- Union members spent an average of 1.4%, or around $200 billion, of tions as a common goal to strive towards, their military capabilities will their GDP on defense, second only to the United States. While the Eu- become more interdependent. This will force the Union to commit to ropean economic force has been recognized on the international stage, its success, as will members come to rely on one another for their own Europe’s military still remains irrelevant. As a close U.S. ally, the United safety. Consequently, they will have to work together in other areas in- States, in conjunction with NATO, has repeatedly called for more ef- stead of attempting action unilaterally. However, it also poses as a risk. ficient defense spending in Europe. The problem with Europe’s defense If, one day, the European Union does fail, or a country, much like Britain, spending is not so much the amount that it spends, but instead its frag- decides to take the solo route, separating countries from other members mented manner of spending. It seems this call has finally been answered and the Union will become harder and riskier as the repercussions and through PESCO. By cooperating on defense financing, the budgets of costs of the Union’s failure grow exponentially. individual European countries can be overcome, allowing for more ef- The pressure to keep the European Union alive and developing is fective military spending and bigger purchases. This would be a great ever growing; however, if member states can’t agree on PESCO regula- step towards military self-sufficiency and European independence from tions, or on who is fulfilling their requirements and who is not, it could NATO and the United States. cause a standstill around the Union’s defense talks and initiatives. Not Yet, the fact remains that big European projects involving diverse only can it not afford such weakness, but a standstill also risks an over- governments are often short lived. The difference between PESCO and flow into other areas of cooperation and regulation. This could compro- other multi-government EU deals is that PESCO is binding. While al- mise the European Union as a whole, and the plot to reawaken the great most all governments sign on, each need not participate in every pur- European giant would have backfired. chase and operation. Each member state is however required to submit Nonetheless, the EU has proven to be resilient. As they face hurdles, an action plan outlining its defense goals to be scrutinized by the Euro- they have proven their ability to work around or overcome them. While pean Defense Agency. If a member isn’t living up to its commitments, the EU will continue to face problems, especially with new steps in im- it can be kicked out of the military alliance. This pressure that countries plementing PESCO, they have proven their passion and drive to make have willingly taken on confirms that PESCO will be successful in lead- their vision of a Union succeed. While taking the next step towards cen- ing to more military investment, and will kick-start defense development tralization and cooperation within the Union through defense collabora- across Europe. It will not be just another hidden bureaucratic money pit. tion is a risk, it is a risk that the Union is willing to take. The stakes are Europe’s commitment and desperation to make PESCO a success high, but as long as EU members are committed to the dream of the great is apparent from the great lengths to which they have gone. They have European giant, they will be willing to fight for its survival. complemented PESCO with the European Defense Fund (EDF) to fi- nance and plan joint research projects, as well as the Coordinated Annual Review on Defense (CARD), to streamline European defense planning. The European Union’s establishment of these organizations portrays THE SUN DEVILS’ ADVOCATE, December 21st, 2017 Page 13 Commentary Kent’s Missing Traditions The approaching holiday season is a problem: Kent Denver has let go of multiple traditions that were once time to enjoy the many traditions in our enjoyed, and many current students don’t even know they ever existed. lives. These traditions come in many forms, It is not as if these traditions have been cancelled without reason. In from participating in religious celebrations, fact, the administration has terminated many of our older traditions with to family skiing expeditions on the first day hopes of positive change. Senior Pet Day, to give one example, was an of powder, to baking cookies. understandable nightmare for our maintenance crew, and the candy that No matter the form, our traditions bring was thrown out on the first day of school probably damaged a few too us closer to our families, mark the passage many cars. of time, and allow us to feel as though we Although the administration canceled the Awards Assembly for some are a part of something that has been handed understandable reasons, such as the subjective distribution of awards, it down through generations. Portia Tieze was perhaps one of the most disheartening traditions to lose. Alumna and As I become excited for my own annual former All-School President Ella Tieze (‘13) voiced her opinion on this Commentary holiday festivities, I have begun to recognize matter, stating, “There is nothing wrong with celebrating the achieve- the lack of more general traditions found in ments of our peers– if Kent Denver wants its students to adhere to core our own Kent Denver community. values, there should also be opportunities to celebrate those who exem- When I first entered Kent in 6th grade, I watched my sisters venture plify scholarship and character.” through the upper school and grow anxious with the prospect of one The complete elimination of so many events has created a void once day being able to engage in all of the same experiences. As each year filled by our school-spirit, pride, and engagement in community. While passed, however, I looked on in disappointment while these traditions several old traditions had inherent flaws, those should not be sufficient were eliminated, one after another. justification to do away with them for good. As a school, we should seek Gone were the hopes of sending my friends Valograms on Valentines to improve upon our traditions from year to year in order to maintain our Day, cheering for my classmates at the Awards Assembly, congratulating identity throughout generations. my teammates with cupcakes on Signing Day, throwing candy on the Next year will be a year of change for Kent Denver School, espe- first day of my senior year, conspiring to do a harmless senior prank, or cially with the opening of several new buildings. I implore our future bringing my dog to class with me on Senior Pet Day. leaders and administrators to enhance and reinstate old traditions and If you are at all confused, then you should be able to understand the start some new ones of their own. Editorial Swan Song: Our Hopes For The Future As the first semester draws to a close, so does our term as Editor in industry. When we recruit new writers, we are not asking them to con- Chief. Over the past four years, the Advocate has been an incredibly tribute to a Kent Denver advertisement publication. We want our writers important part of our high school careers. We began writing for the paper to feel like they can use the Advocate as an outlet to express their frustra- during our freshman year under the guidance of seniors like Rob Casey tions, start conversations, and evoke change. and Kevin Adams, and we haven’t been able to quit since. During our term, we have realized that it is impossible for the news- During our sophomore year, John Ort and Fahim Choudhury took us paper to be both a tool for the admissions office and an honest publica- under their wing as section editors and taught us how to battle with the tion. We struggled to balance these two aspects of the paper. We fre- paper’s challenging software. quently condoned the publication of articles that sugarcoated reality, but Come junior year, we were fortunate enough to step into the role of we also tried to push for controversial articles. Editor in Chief. Four long years have passed since we began our journey Over time, we’ve learned that it’s okay to admit that a sports team with the Advocate, but unfortunately, it has remained a relatively stag- lost a game that they were predicted to win, or that Quincy Avenue was nant publication. disappointed with the level of student attendance at their concert. Our Reflecting back on the twenty issues that we have taken part in cre- goal is not to barrage the Kent community with these honest articles, but ating, we are disappointed to see what little change the Advocate has to highlight how students are able to overcome adversity. gone through. Each year when a new Editor in Chief is elected, they are Right now our paper is lacking this deeper understanding. If we want hopeful that they will push the Advocate to the next level by publishing to be able to achieve this depth in the future, the Advocate will have to controversial articles that will excite conversation in the student body. recognize the areas where the community is both thriving and struggling. Unfortunately, this becomes a lot harder when the paper is connected In a time where the integrity of journalism is being questioned so often, to the Kent Denver brand, as it is hard to implement significant chang- we want to ensure that we are releasing the most honest issues that we es. can. We struggled with this ourselves when we tried to create an insta- As we pass on our responsibilities as Editor in Chief, we hope that the gram account for the Advocate. We could have never predicted the push future writers for the Advocate have the same passion we do for authen- back that we got from the administration, as we had to set up countless tic journalism. We hope that they recognize the power that words can meetings, draft several contracts, and conduct thorough research before have and will not be afraid to use them. our idea was even considered. While we understand the risks of expand- ing the school’s and students’ digital footprint, the Advocate is supposed to be an educational tool, and we are failing to keep up with the changing Page 14, THE SUN DEVILS’ ADVOCATE, December 21st, 2017 Photo Recap Spot The Differences!

First Semester Photo Recap! Photos by Andrew Goldblatt signs armor under turf, on helmet red, to green hat jersey, Conrad’s Key: Answer

THE SUN DEVILS’ ADVOCATE, December 21st, 2017 Page 15 The Sun Devils’ Advocate NON-PROFIT org. Kent Denver School U.S. POSTAGE 4000 East Quincy Avenue PAID Englewood, CO 80110 Englewood, CO Permit No. 818

Congratulations On A Great First Semester!

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