The Sun Devils’ Advocate Volume XLI, Number 10 Kent Denver School, 4000 East Quincy Avenue, Englewood, CO 80110 March 16, 2018 New Middle School Building Is Unveiled!

Students and teachers alike are thrilled about their beautiful, new building. Photo by Reagen Haecker

Q & A with Mental Health KDS Puck Mr. Peterson Opinion Pieces Makes History See Page 6 See Pages 13 & 15 See Page 9 News Jacob Zuma Ends Corrupt Presidency fect.” by Ellie Henry Zuma, clearly aggrieved After nine years of facing opposition for his corrupt motives, Presi- by the ANC’s decision, will dent Jacob Zuma of South Africa has finally given in to threats of im- face multiple corruption peachment and has officially resigned. His resignation follows a ruling charges involving influence issued by the African National Congress demanding that he step down peddling in his administra- voluntarily or face the consequences of a parliamentary no-confidence tion and illegal arms deal- vote. ing. South Africa will be left with a confused electorate, The ANC clearly communicated that parliament was not in support a weakened economy, and of Zuma remaining in office and that it felt the country’s future goals a damaged reputation as a Graphic by Cecily Coors would be better represented by a different leader. It is anticipated that the result of this “hero.” current Deputy President of the ANC, Cyril Ramaphosa, will be Zuma’s successor. Zuma’s resignation is a devastating blow to South African citizens. A man who was once an emblem of possibility has turned into a symbol It has been an unfortunate end for Zuma; the anti-apartheid hero who of corruption. was imprisoned with Nelson Mandela on Robben Island represented a beacon of hope to many of his people. But there is still hope: Zuma’s resignation may be the beginning of a new era in South Africa. These events leave room for the ANC to rebuild Although Zuma’s presidency initially inspired many, his involve- the country’s political infrastructure while simultaneously giving hope ment in numerous scandals tainted his image. In a televised address late and confidence to South African citizens. Wednesday night, Zuma said, “No life should be lost in my name. The ANC should never have been divided in my name. I have therefore come Although the rebuilding stages of South Africa may not be quick, to the decision to resign as president of the republic with immediate ef- citizens can be assured that the corruption of the government will be securely monitored in future days. Speech And Debate Team Competes In Berkeley by Caley Capoot Interpretation. Junior, Daniel Chao, won 4th before competing. We empower each other to place in Extemporaneous Speaking and made do our best.” On February 16, 2018, over fifty Kent it to the quarterfinals in Informative Speaking. Outside of rounds, students were allowed Denver students traveled to San Francisco, In addition to the three finalists, six students to enjoy themselves on Telegraph Avenue, ex- California to compete in the national Berkeley made it to the preliminary final rounds. The ploring the shops and restaurants that Berkeley Invitational Speech and Debate tournament. team’s success this year is unprecedented for has to offer. The team also took a day at Fisher- The tournament, located at the University of Kent Denver in the past three years. man’s Wharf in San Francisco. Whether it be California, Berkeley, allows students to com- At the start of each day of competition, the ice-cream sandwiches from Cream or a pastry pete with others from across the country. Even team circles up, holds hands, and encourages from the Asian Bakery, students could get a at this level of competition, Kent had three each other to do their best. In the crisp Califor- taste of California on the five-day trip. students make it to their final rounds in their nia air, the cold doesn’t bother these students, With a new head coach, Ian Hopkins, Kent respective events. Kent Denver Senior, Tyler as the captains explain how proud they are of Whitaker, won 3rd place in Humorous In- Denver Speech and Debate is set up to have a the team for their accomplishments through- successful end of season. Over twenty-seven terpretation. Aaron Matthews, also a senior, out the season. Esther Omegba, who made it achieved 6th place in Dramatic Interpretation. students from all grades qualified for the state to octofinals in Dramatic Interpretation, notes, tournament, as competitors or alternates. The Together, both Tyler and Aaron, captains of “Warm-ups are a speech and debate tradition the speech team, made it to semifinals in Duo school’s great success can be credited to a year that allow everyone to unwind and calm down of hard work and dedication.

Senior Sydney Gart, Junior Alice Noble, and Seniors Tyler Whitaker and Photos by Andrew Goldblatt Aaron Mathews show off their skills at the Speech and Debate showcase. Page 2, THE SUN DEVILS’ ADVOCATE, March 16, 2018 News Space X

by Max VanLandschoot rocket lumbered off the launch pad. For 154 stress-filled seconds, the Falcon Heavy On February 6, 2018, the Falcon Heavy climbed towards space until the main boost- rocket cycled its engines on the launch pad ers were violently ejected back to Earth. Once in Cape Canaveral, Florida. Millions watched the Falcon Heavy finally reached space, it de- from surrounding beaches and internet live- ployed its fairings to reveal Musk’s personal streams. The mission was ambitious because Tesla Roadster, piloted by “Spaceman,” to be- Elon Musk, the CEO of SpaceX, not only gin its long voyage to Mars. The Falcon Heavy planned to land all three of the main booster launch program had few objectives; however, stages, but he was also attempting to launch the the most important aspect of the mission was most powerful rocket since the Saturn V sent a to prove that humans could be sent to Mars. man to the moon. If the launch was successful, Elon Musk commented on CNN that he feels it could usher in a new era of affordable, reus- as though the launch of the Falcon increased able space travel. If it failed, in Musk’s own confidence in his organization. Eventually, words, “[it would be] the best fireworks dis- Musk and his team are planning to test a myri- play they’ve ever seen.” ad of minor rockets and primary rockets to see which system is best for an official launch. At 1:30 pm, the engines ignited and the Graphic by Cecily Coors KDS Gears Up For Move To New Middle School

Photos by Andrew Goldblatt Model UN Takes Bilbao by Andrew Park Also impressive was the fact that student leaders spoke at the opening ceremony. Ms. As the busy month of January came to a Campbell, director of the Model United Na- close, Kent Denver’s Model United Nations tions club, said in a Kent Denver newsletter, team took flight over to Bilbao, Spain for an- “our students… stepped up to several leader- other international conference. ship roles, with Jordan Baum (‘18) serving as a student officer for the Human Rights Coun- The gathering was truly spectacular. The cil and Monica Royal (‘18), Lydia Haile (‘19) whole team enjoyed the chance to explore a and Venus Montesinos (‘19) giving formal ad- new city, and they were the only United States dresses to the entire conference in their roles as school to attend the Ayalde conference. Fif- ambassadors.” teen highly motivated students were able to gain experience and voice their opinions about Truly everyone on the team represented different world issues with other international Kent Denver in an outstanding way! As the students. Model United Nations season comes to a close, the team will host a conference at Kent Den- While debating with students from Spain, ver consisting of nearly four hundred students Greece, England, and more, the SUNMUN from across the state! If you are interested in team’s performance as Belarus won the best joining Model United Nations, contact Sarah delegation award. Campbell. Photo by Tate Schmergel

THE SUN DEVILS’ ADVOCATE, March 16, 2018 Page 3 News Athletes Dominate Olympics failed to medal in her best and favorite event, Arielle Gold by Molly Miller the Slalom. By the end of the games, Mikaela Gold suffered major injuries during a prac- ultimately won a silver medal in the Alpine This Winter brought us the 23rd Winter tice run in the 2014 Sochi games, which was women’s combined. Olympics in PyeongChang, South Korea. Al- a key turning point for her career; due to her though this year’s medal count from Team USA Nicole Hensley injuries, she thought of concluding her snow- was unexpectedly low, Team Colorado fortu- Team USA’s women’s hockey hero is from boarding halfpipe career. However, in an epic nately came out on top. Athletes, either from Littleton, Colorado. Nicole Hensley is current- comeback, she was able to win the bronze or training in The Centennial State, had a total ly one of the goalies for Team USA hockey and medal. This was truly a major victory for her medal count of ten. If they were represented as started her position earlier in the tournament. considering her comeback journey to winning a country, Team Colorado would have tied Italy The most memorable moment from the Winter the medal. for 13th place in the total medal count. Games was a shootout that occurred in the final Lindsey Vonn Red Gerard championship game between USA and its age- Lindsey Vonn is a skiing legend. Her Su- old rival, Canada. Gerard’s first gold medal provided an en- perbowl commercial this year inspired mil- tertaining experience for all Olympic fans Alex Ferreira lions with her story of fame, victory, and re- alike. The 17 year old, originally from Ohio, The Aspen native claimed the silver medal silience. The Colorado girl became the most has lived in Silverthorne, Colorado since he in halfpipe skiing. He was sitting in first place, decorated women’s ski racer in history with 81 was seven years old. The day of his Olympics but a stunning performance by David Wise, World Cup wins. After missing the 2014 So- run, Gerard unfortunately overslept and lost also an American, edged him out of the gold chi Winter Games, Vonn was ready to medal his official Team USA coat. He ended up bor- medal position. Alex Ferreira’s father, Marcelo and would be competing in three events in rowing a coat two-sizes too big from his room- Ferreira, became the highlight during his son’s PyeongChang. Albeit slightly disappointing mate. Gerard was in 11th place at the end of his Olympic runs. He prayed, borrowed a gigantic her fan base, she walked away with a bronze second run with one more to go. After a risky, cowbell from a Swiss neighbor, and gathered medal in the Downhill. She also placed sixth in but extremely technical final run, Gerard was school children from Seoul to sing for his son. the Super-G. In the future, she will stay on the at the top of the leaderboard with his fiercest World Cup circuit in order to chase five more competition going next: two Canadians and a Lauren Gibbs wins, which would make her the winningest Norwegian teen superstar. After the last score After being randomly discovered four years women in all of ski racing history. came in, Gerard, in shock, muttered a curse ago in a Denver CrossFit gym, Gibbs achieved Alexa Scimeca Knierim & Chris Knierim word, uncensored, on national television real- a silver medal in the bobsled competition. With izing that he had won a gold medal. teammate, Elana Meyers Taylor, the pair was The figure skating pair failed to medal in their individual events, placing 15th instead; Mikaela Shiffrin .07 seconds away from a gold medal. The sil- ver medal hung proudly around Gibbs, the un- however, the pair did manage to help Team Shiffrin wanted more. She wanted to be expected participant from a local Denver gym. USA figure skating win bronze in the team the best in the world. Going into these games, It was truly an underdog story! event. The couple is married and has lived in the twenty two year old was looking for more Colorado for a number of years. Kyle Mack than a slalom medal, and after many weather Mirai Nagasu delays, Shiffrin finally got her chance. The first At 20 years old, Kyle Mack won his first Giant Slalom run for Mikaela was strong, even medal. He competed in the Big Air compe- Mirai Nagasu also trains and lives in Colo- though it is considered her weakest event. It tition, which made its debut in the Winter rado. She helped Team USA win the bronze in landed her a solid second place, but with one Games. Mack won a silver medal, making that the team event for figure skating. During the more run through the course, she was going for two medals from the town of Silverthorne, team event, she landed a triple axel, the first gold. The second run was most definitely bet- Colorado, after Gerard won a gold earlier in American woman to do so in the Olympic ter, knocking out her competitors and clinch- the games. games. Her comments about carrying the team ing gold; however, the next day would not see to their medal did cause controversy, which as much success for the young athlete. She she addressed after the games ended.

News Editors Caley Capoot...... [email protected] The Sun Devils’ [email protected] Phillip Roseto...... [email protected] Andrew Park...... [email protected] Photography Editors Advocate Commentary Editor Andrew Goldblatt...... [email protected] Timea Ryan...... [email protected] James Dahlen...... [email protected] is a monthly publication of Kent Denver School, Emily Hogan...... [email protected] Graphics Editors located at 4000 E. Quincy Ave., Features Editors Claudia Bautista...... [email protected] Englewood, Colorado 80110 Allie Mandava...... [email protected] Cecily Coors...... [email protected] 303-770-7660 Henry Rogers...... [email protected] Faculty Advisor Editors in Chief Arts and Entertainment Editors Logan Brown...... [email protected] Caroline [email protected] Olivia Cohen...... [email protected] Katie Collamore...... [email protected] Reagen [email protected] Ella Newcomb...... [email protected] Printer...... Southeast Denver Graphics Sports Editors Page 4, THE SUN DEVILS’ ADVOCATE, March 16, 2018 Features What’s Cool In The Upper School??

by Julia Doyle and Caroline Oudet

Student Life: Robotics

Robotics team members focus as they showcase their hard work at a competition. Photos by Andrew Goldblatt

THE SUN DEVILS’ ADVOCATE, March 16, 2018 Page 5 Features Burning Questions With Mr. Petersen fun I could have teaching (she was right!). I the 200 backstroke in my age group. My train- by Ben Shapiro always loved science as a kid because I was ing partners and I set national records on three just naturally drawn to the things I didn’t un- relays, and this summer we are trying to break Recently, the Sun Devils’ Advocate had the derstand. I loved taking things apart to see how three world records on those same relays. opportunity to interview Mr. Petersen, a teach- they worked. er in the Kent Denver Science Department who SDA: Is there anything else you would like also coaches the Women’s Swim team. For SDA: What has been your favorite class to to share, or a piece of advice you would like to those who don’t know Mr. Petersen, and even teach? impart to Kent Denver’s community? for those who do, the Sun Devils’ Advocate un- CP: I really haven’t had a favorite class to CP: I am retiring at the end of this school covered some of Mr. Peterson’s most amazing teach. I enjoy working with all students wheth- year after twenty three years at Kent. I can’t stories, experiences, and advice to share with er it’s an introductory course in physics or an imagine a better place to teach. The students I the Kent Denver community before his depar- advanced physics class. have met and taught are amazing. I will miss ture into a new life of retirement. SDA: Do you have a favorite teaching mo- being in the classroom with them every day Sun Devil’s Advocate (SDA) : Did you ment? If so what was it? (but I won’t miss grading their labs or writing have another profession before teaching at comments). They provide so much energy and CP: My fvorite teaching moments have Kent Denver? are so smart that it is a joy being with them. come in two forms. The best is when I am I have great confidence in the future for our Mr. Craig Petersen (CP): Before coming teaching and a student asks a question, and it’s country after working with our students here to Kent, I was a geophysicist working in oil such a great question, maybe something I have at Kent Denver. exploration for 10 years. My specialty was never thought of, and then I realize that the stu- working with seismic wavelets trying to pre- dent is way smarter than I am. The second is dict where oil or natural gas was located. Once when I see a student’s face light up when he or I made that prediction, I then tried to determine she grasps a concept that they have struggled how much oil or gas was located in the area with and it finally clicks. where I thought we should drill a well. SDA: We have heard that you have a very SDA: How did you decide to become a impressive swimming career; can you talk a teacher for Kent Denver? little about that? CP: My wife, Charlotte, was the one that CP: I have been swimming competitively told me that I should become a teacher. I had since I was five, so I’ve done it for a few years gone to business school, earned a master’s now. There is a huge worldwide program for degree in finance and thought I would do swimmers once they leave college. It works something in the financial world. Charlotte, in age groups just like it does for youth swim- however, reminded me that science was my ming, except the age groups extend over five true passion, and that I would find the finan- year increments. I had a good year a couple cial world pretty boring (as she was working of years ago when I won 11 national titles, set Photo by Andrew Goldblatt in that industry at the time) compared to the four national records, and had a world record in Café Bogue Makes The Healthy Switch by Allie Mandava buying Mac and Cheese or Cup o’ Noodles in- Café Bogue, says that she expects “to see stu- stead. While this choices may seem like a good dents making better choices about what they Café Bogue has always been the go-to, alternative in the moment, a 2:00 PM crash and put into their bodies.” The staff has already last minute stop for the students at Kent Den- burn is inevitable. noticed the student body utilizing these new ver who need a snack for a dollar or just can’t Jack Pearman, the manager of Café Bogue, options in buying a salad instead of a Pumpkin make it up to lunch. For those of us who forget has provided a solution to this problem by bread or a sandwich instead of a bag of chips. to eat breakfast, or just need a quick bite be- adding some healthy options to the array of The shift to healthier options is great news fore sports, Bogue can be a lifesaver. If you choices already offered. Before making any for the students who are inevitably going to are one of those people, you’re not alone, as changes, the staff conducted a trial where stu- need a couple of lunch periods to polish their there always seems to be a line in front of the dents could sample yogurt with strawberries essays or meet with a teacher. Whether you Café counter. and granola, a possibile item to be sold later stay down from lunch for a last minute home- Bogue has a variety of options as far as on. The students seemed to love it and the yo- work assignment or need a bite before a game, both food and drinks go, from Gatorades and gurt option is now being sold at Bogue. In the take advantage of these new healthy additions, Caprisuns to chips and chocolate muffins. last few weeks it has been an option, there has as it will surely benefit you in the end. While having so many options at our fingertips been an almost unsuppliable demand. Bogue has been essential to making it through the day, has also now added a variety of salads, sand- it can also be dangerous. Students who choose wiches, and wraps. not to go up to lunch often find themselves Ellie Henry, a sophomore who works at

Page 6, THE SUN DEVILS’ ADVOCATE, March 16, 2018 Sports 2018 Olympic Opening Ceremony

vided the perfect setting in which both compe- Each year the opening ceremony sparks the by Alex Mayor and Emma Murphy tition and support could coincide. excitement of the athletes and the viewers at The tradition of the flag bearing in the home for the upcoming games. Later, in con- The highly anticipated 2018 Winter Olym- opening ceremony allows every athlete the trast, the closing ceremony brings a nostalgic pics Opening Ceremony in Pyeongchang, opportunity to honor the country they are rep- end to the games. For many of the Olympic South Korea, took place on February 9. This resenting for the games. While most countries athletes, the games in Pyeongchang were the world renown ceremony was held in the new were present, due to doping accusations, the end of their Olympic careers. Jessie Diggins, PyeongChang Olympic Stadium, which cost country of Russia was not represented dur- who carried the USA flag in the closing- cer $13 billion to construct. The stadium will be ing the ceremony or games this year. Instead, emony stated, “It is so humbling, and [she felt] used for opening and closing ceremonies for Russian athletes who qualified for the games so honored to have been picked.” both the Olympics and the Paralympics, then it competed under the title of Olympic Athletes Even though this year’s Winter Olympics will be taken down. of Russian (OAR). are over, the world experienced an amazing While 35,000 people watched in the crowd, The traditions and performances of the opening ceremony, inspiring competition, and the opening ceremony successfully welcomed opening ceremony not only captivated the a stunning closing ceremony. Pyeongchang has 1,000 athletes from 92 countries, despite below viewers, but also the athletes as they walked set a high bar for the upcoming 2020 Summer freezing temperatures and previous tension through the arena. U.S. snowboarder, Shaun Olympics in Tokyo; viewers are waiting with among countries. With the theme of peace, the White, commented on this feeling saying, “It’s bated breath to see what Tokyo will do in their opening ceremony subdued hostility between almost indescribable. You are part of this huge opening and closing ceremonies. North and South Korea. These Olympics were team, Team USA, and you’re out here all to- the first time the two Koreas had officially spo- gether, all for the same common goal. It’s so ken in ten years. The magic of the games pro- exciting every single time.” Teens In The Olympics built to train. Gerard won the first gold medal for the United States in by Avery Munn and Natalie Gendelman PyeongChang at just seventeen years old. On top of this achievement, At the 2018 PyeongChang Winter Olympics, the teenage athletes Gerard is now the youngest olympian in 90 years to have won a gold who represented the United States of America took over the spotlight. medal at the Winter Olympics. Team USA sent an astounding eleven teenagers to PyeongChang who Despite this enormous achievement at such a highly acclaimed event, competed in various different sports. Many of the athletes, though not Gerard does still show the characteristics of a teenage boy: binge watch- even old enough to vote, were fighting for an Olympic gold medal. Al- ing netflix, sleeping in, and impulsively cursing. The night before com- though the teens were only eleven people out of the 242 American ath- petition day, Gerald admitted to staying up too late watching Brooklyn letes, they accounted for four out of the twenty nine medals the United Nine-Nine. When his alarm went off at 6:00 AM that morning, Gerard States won during the games. slept right through it and nearly missed finals. Even with the tough start Redmond Gerard is not your average seventeen-year-old boy; the to his day, he came in after his run with a score of 87.16 out of 100, put- snowboarder from Rocky River, Ohio competed this past February at ting him in first place. His teenage instincts kicked in when after discov- the in and won USA’s first gold ering he won a gold medal, as he shouted, “holy f***!” medal. His snowboarding career began when he was just seven years old Sixteen-year-old , who in recent years has been referred to when his family moved to Silverthorne, Colorado. His journey began in as “The Future of Women’s Snowboarding,” also brought home a gold his own backyard, where he used a homemade terrain park his family medal in the 2018 Games. Despite her bubbly personality and bright smile, Kim is a fierce competitor. Her win in PyeongChang was espe- cially important because her relatives, who live in South Korea, had the opportunity to watch her compete live. Kim first began snowboarding at age 4 at a local resort near her hometown of Torrance, California. By the age of 16, Kim had already presented herself as a force to be reckoned with in the snowboarding world. She became the first sixteen-year-old to win 3 gold-medals, and earned a historic win at the U.S. Grand Prix, where she finished with a perfect score of 100. Kim would have been a household name after the 2014 Sochi Olympic Games; however, age restrictions prevented her from competing. She set her sights on the 2018 Games, and her perfor- mance did not disappoint. Kim’s first run earned her an impressive 93.75, which was all she needed to secure gold; however, that didn’t stop her from finishing with an even more remarkable second run, in which she landed back-to-back 180’s.

Graphic by Claudia Bautista THE SUN DEVILS’ ADVOCATE, March 16, 2018 Page 7 Sports Girls’ Basketball Finishes Out A Strong Season

by Abby Wilkinson and Sofia Palumbo

The Girls’ Basketball season is coming to a close, but the team has had an amazing run! They won districts this season and went into the State Championship playoffs as the num- ber one seed. During district playoffs, Kent Denver beat Lutheran, the 2016 champions. They had their best season since 2012 and were the district champions for the first time since 2004. Their head coach, Richard Judd, leads the Emma Boatman (‘18) fights team. While he is a stern coach, he cares a lot for possession. about the players and has been instrumental in the team’s success. The team is also coached by Celena Otero, Greg Chalfin, Stephanie Ky- ser, and Alyssa Yates. All of the coaches come together to support the team and encourage them to be the best they can. Led by their senior captains Julia Doyle, Emma Boatman, and Sophia Reynolds, the Julia Dyle (‘18) dribbles past team has had a terrific season, and the team dynamic off of the court is equally great. a defender. Sophomore Maddy McDonald said, “My favorite part of basketball is being a part of the team. Everyone is valued on the team and the seniors are nice.” The team is extremely proud of their success and the players are al- ready looking forward to next season! Bailey Parkhouse (‘20) passes to her teammates. Photos by Sadie Harrington Boys’ Lacrosse Prepares For Upcoming Season

Players follow the lead of Senior Captain Ryan Bergner (‘18) Jameson Poat (‘21) turns to catch a pass. during warm-ups. Photos by Andrew Goldblatt

Page 8, THE SUN DEVILS’ ADVOCATE, March 16, 2018 Sports 2018 Girls’ Soccer Hopes To Continue Their Success experienced seniors at the helm. and they are looking forward to its develop- by Alex Mayer and Emma Murphy The players started off the season with a ment throughout the rest of the year. rigorous preseason consisting of various run- With a pre-season win and new additions to The Kent Denver Girls’ soccer team is ning exercises and drills. Some of the common the varsity roster, the team is looking forward preparing for another great season to follow drills were Brazilian Circle warm ups, the two- to their first game on Thursday, March 6, 2016. last year’s success. Last season the team did mile run to the Cherry Hills Fire Station, small Their competitor, The Classical Academy, is a extremely well and created a strong team dy- and full field scrimmages, pressure training, solid team, but the girls are confident they can namic that they hope to continue building on agility exercises, and 400-meter sprints. Tryout win. As the Sun Devils look forward to a very this year. Senior Juliana Pook says that she is week is challenging and rewarding for players busy, yet exciting, season ahead of them, the hoping to “bring the team together as quick- as they compete for a spot on the team. The Kent Denver community is anxious to see what ly as possible to create a strong bond on and season officially started on February 25, 2018, they will accomplish! off the field.” Last year the team was strong and the program had their first scrimmage on throughout the season, but unfortunately, they March 3, 2018 against Basalt. The team chem- did not qualify for the state championship. The istry is already strong this early in the season, team is hoping to make it further this year with KDS Puck Makes History

by Jacobo Arango and Chris Tsai

After a season full of ups and downs, the Kent Denver Boys’ Hockey team’s spectacular postseason run came to an end at the hands of a dev- astating 6-1 loss to Monarch High School. This loss, however, under- mines the unlikely, yet realized accomplishments of this team. After a lopsided 8-1 victory over Pine Creek High School in the first round of the Colorado State Hockey Tournament, the team faced low odds of win- ning against a substantial rival: Cherry Creek. Similar to the events of the 1980 Olympic men’s hockey tournament, more commonly known as the Miracle on Ice, in which an American team filled with amateur hockey players upended a veteran Soviet team, this young team, com- prised of athletes chosen from a small pool of 500 students, was able to upset a championship-hopeful team consisting of players from the entirety of the Cherry Creek school district (with over 54,000 students to choose from). This quarterfinal run exceeded all expectations from the beginning of the season, and it will never be forgotten by this year’s Kent Denver KDS Hockey Players smile during a timeout. team, and certainly not by the Cherry Creek district. Sophomore Ben Zimmerman, and scorer of the game-winning goal against Cherry Creek, admitted that low expectations were set at the beginning of the season, especially with the loss of senior George Kandel to injury. He noted, “After losing George in the first few couple of games, we faced a tough stretch. Only a couple guys thought we had a chance to make it to the first game.” After starting the season a measly 4-5-1, the Sun Devils knocked off 10 of their last 12 games en route to the tenth seed in the state tournament. Zimmerman attributes these victories to the team’s genuine camaraderie, saying, “In the end, we won because we learned how to play together and win together.” And as real teammates do, Zim- merman gave props to his teammates on the ice for bringing home win after win. Specifically thanking goalie A.J. Dichiara, Zimmerman said, “He was by far the most important thing to our team’s success. To have a goalie who can keep us in games that we have no business being in gives the entire team a boost.” The team continued to improve game after game, and with most of the team coming back for another year, these Sun Devils’ future can only get brighter. Although Zimmerman’s modesty is a testament to the team’s all-around sportsmanship and char- acter, the hours of practice, teamwork, and drive to win sent this puck AJ Dichiara makes the save. team to new heights. Photos by Andrew Goldblatt

THE SUN DEVILS’ ADVOCATE, March 16, 2018 Page 9 Arts and Entertainment Mandarin Student Reflects On Colorado by Grant Fitez Welcome to Denver! Denver is an especial- ly interesting American city. The city is exactly 欢迎来到丹佛!丹佛是一个挺有意思 one mile high, has almost 7 million people, 的美国城市。丹佛有一英里高,有七百万 and has the second largest airport in the United 人口左右,有美国第二个大的飞机场。科 States. Colorado’s weather is superb. There are 罗拉多州的天气特别好,一个年有三百个 three hundred sunny days per year. The sum- 晴天。夏天有很多好玩儿的活动让每个人 mer has many activities for everybody. You can 做。你可以骑自行车,跑步,走路,打 bike, run, take a walk, play sports games, hike, 球,爬山,也可以攀岩。冬天的时候可以 and go rock climbing. The winter has opportu- 去山上滑雪或者玩滑雪板。科罗拉多有五 nity for much skiing and snowboarding in the 十六座比一万四千英尺高的山,还有一百 mountains. Colorado has fifty-six mountains 五十个滑雪场。有的滑雪场每年下四百英 higher than 14,000 feet and has 150 ski resorts. 寸的雪。要是你不喜欢在外面,丹佛还有 Some ski resorts get 400 inches of snow every 很多有意思的室内活动。可以去丹佛的不 year. If you do not like the outdoors, Denver 同的体育场看美式足球,棒球,篮球,足 has interesting indoor places. It is possible to 球,冰球或者曲棍球比赛。要是你不喜欢 watch American football, baseball, soccer, and 打球或者看球赛,丹佛有二百五个公园, hockey at Denver’s many sports stadiums. For 是美国的最大的公园系统。你饿了的时候 people who do not like sports, Denver has 250 还可以去丹佛市中心吃饭,那儿有很多不 parks--America’s largest park system. When 一样的好吃的饭馆儿。谢谢你花这么多时 you are hungry, you can go downtown for a 间认识丹佛。请来参观这个美丽,好玩 variety of delicious restaurants. Thank you for 儿,有意思的城市! taking the time to learn about Denver. Provided by Reagen Haecker Hamilton Comes To The DCPA

banking system. He really is a true example of by Charlotte Mauger the American Dream: “a founding father with- out a father.” The musical gives Hamilton, an I would have to agree with Ben Brant- often overlooked and less-celebrated founder, ley, the chief theater critic of The New York the recognition that he deserves. Times: “Yes, it really is that good.” Hamilton The musical performed its debut on Broad- is a historical tale of the United States’ most way in February of 2015. The musical made its prominent founding fathers: Thomas Jefferson, way to Denver this year and is here until April George Washington, and of course, Alexander 1, 2018. The run time is 2 hours and 45 min- Hamilton. Starting from the earliest days of the utes, including a brief intermission. However, American Revolution, the musical takes the au- finding the patience to sit for the duration of dience through the United States’ struggle for the musical is made easy by the breathtaking independence and the foundation of the coun- singing and incredible dancing. As if that’s not try in which we live today. Though the plot line enough, Hamilton is one of the only musicals may seem serious, the musical remains enter- to have successfully incorporated rap, adding taining with comedy and romance perfectly in- an additional layer to the experience and per- tertwined and strategically placed throughout. fectly suiting the audience’s varied interests. As the winner of eleven Tony Awards, a Pu- litzer Prize, and a Grammy Award, Hamilton Lin-Manuel Miranda, the writer of Ham- certainly lives up to its hype, blowing away the ilton, is ingenious in his ability to incorporate expectations of the entertainment industry. humor, romance, and tragedy all in a relatively brief window of time. Each scene successfully The story traces the life of Alexander Ham- touches a new emotion; every minute could ilton. Raised an orphan, Hamilton was a self- just as easily leave the viewer laughing as in made man. Starting life with nothing but his tears. Spectators leave with not only a memo- innate intelligence and unyielding patriotism, rable experience, but with a newly discovered Hamilton eventually rose to be George Wash- sense of understanding, patriotism and inspira- ington’s right hand man. Not only did he lead tion. troops in the war for independence, but he went Provided by Caroline Casey on to found Wall Street, start the New York Journal, and lay the basis for the modern day

Page 10, THE SUN DEVILS’ ADVOCATE, March 16, 2018 Arts and Entertainment Casual Lunchtime Performances Are A Hit tertainment during lunch!” Tara Lyons (‘19), a wonderful forum for students and teachers to by Ella Newcomb who performed an original song, simply stated share the things that they love with the com- that “the lunchtime performance was so fun be- munity and to bring new light to the perform- At the start of this semester, a new oppor- cause [she] got to see so many people show off ing arts at Kent. These stress-free performanc- tunity for students to perform called the Ca- their talents.” es create a welcoming, friendly environment, sual Lunchtime Performances was established. and hopefully students and teachers will con- Once a month, students and teachers are able It has been absolutely wonderful to see the tinue to participate with an open mind and an to showcase their various talents to their peers. support of the Casual Lunchtime Performances enthusiasm for the arts. And, after only two concerts, the audience has from participants and audience members. The seen it all! From original songs to gymnastics, last concert had a turnout of almost sixty stu- participating students have had so much to of- dents and teachers. The performances open up fer to the performances. With so much com- munity involvement, it is clear that these per- formances help promote a strong art culture at Kent. In the first concert, students and teachers played guitar, piano, classical bass, and sang. Bella Sperling (‘19) performed with another junior, Lilyrose Bahrabadi, harmonizing on the Ed Sheeran hit, “A Team.” Bella said that her experience at the Casual Lunchtime Perfor- mance was “very enjoyable and gave [her] the chance to perform in a relaxed environment.” Vincent Tran (‘22), who performed in the sec- ond concert, said that “the casual lunchtime performance is a great opportunity for students to practice performing and to have some en- Photo by James Dahlen Stars Receive Accolades statuettes. This year, the Golden Globes aired ating some disapproval among critics of the by Olivia Cohen January seventh, and the season ended with comedian. the Academy Awards on March fourth. January, February, and March are inargu- 5. “Three Billboards” star Frances ably the longest months of the year. Day af- Although awards season tends to be a McDormand delivered a powerful feminist ter day of freezing dry air blowing through marathon from event to event, it rarely be- speech at the Oscars, asking each woman in Kent from the mountains leaves students both comes tedious. Both participants and viewers the audience to stand and, in the process, win- wondering how December flew by so quickly remain entertained by highlights of the events, ning the approval of every mom in the coun- and counting down the days until the end of whether touching or humiliating. Here are the try. research papers and the beginning of spring highlights of this year’s season: 6. The Academy Awards envelopes break. However, for the crews of movies re- 1. At the Golden Globes, Oprah spoke feature categories in noticeably massive fonts, leased in 2017, winter doesn’t seem quite so to the importance of the “Time’s Up” move- so as to prevent mix-ups of the “La-La-Land”- interminable. The first three months of the ment upon receiving the Cecil B. DeMille instead-of-“Moonlight”-for-Best-Picture vari- year make up awards season during which Award, provoking a standing ovation and ety. films, actors, producers, costume designers, various speculations about her possible 2020 The overwhelming winners of awards sea- and more are offered recognition for their presidential candidacy. son were “Get Out,” with twelve total wins, work the year before. 2. Kirk Douglas and Catherine Zeta “Lady Bird,” with eleven, and “The Shape of Award season is comprised of dozens, if Jones gave a sentimental speech onstage at Water,” with eight total awards, including the not hundreds, of events. Movie crews must the Golden Globes. Kirk Douglas celebrated Oscar for Best Picture. And, even though they bounce from red carpet to red carpet, inter- his 101st birthday last December. left the Oscars empty-handed, “Lady Bird” view to interview, before finally returning to 3. “Three Billboards outside Ebbing, stars, Saoirse Ronan and Timothée Chalamet general stability and consistency in the spring. Missouri” and “Lady Bird” took the Golden (who was also the lead in Best-Picture-nomi- There are five central award ceremonies: the Globe for Best Drama Film and Best Comedy/ nated “Call Me By Your Name”), both gained Golden Globes, the Guild awards, the BAF- Musical Film; respectively. the popularity of the media and the respect of young people across the globe for their relat- TAs, the Indie Spirit Awards, and the Acad- 4. Academy Awards host Jimmy Kim- able personalities and strong messages about emy Awards. Any film’s ambition is to be mel interrupted a showing of “A Wrinkle in gender equality and sexuality. recognized at the Academy Awards, but only Time” at a nextdoor theater to surprise unsus- an elite few return home with coveted gold pecting and uninterested moviegoers, gener-

THE SUN DEVILS’ ADVOCATE, March 16, 2018 Page 11 Arts and Entertainment Students Awarded Keys

by Sidney Chong Regardless of how they are judged later on, the winners of the scho- lastic awards this year truly exemplify the thriving artistic culture of Kent Denver is truly a one of a kind school, and at times it seems that Kent Denver. They worked extremely hard this year brainstorming, we, as a community, are always celebrating the unique and incredible sketching, building, and ultimately creating unforgettable art pieces that talents of our peers. From playoff games to Speech and Debate tourna- were recognized at a regional level. Through the Scholastic Art Awards, ments, musical concerts, theatrical performances (and frankly the list Kent Denver attempts to provide an opportunity for everyone to step could continue on and on), the students of Kent Denver shine in the into the spotlight. Below is the list of the artists receiving awards; be spotlight. Yet for those who devote their attention to the the visual arts, sure to congratulate the members of our community on their remarkable their opportunity comes in the form of the Scholastic Art competition. achievement! Once a year, the Scholastic Art Awards recognize artwork made by students across twenty nine different categories, including ceramics and glass, mixed media, photography, and jewelry. Twenty Kent Den- ver students in seven different categories were good enough to receive acknowledgement for their work. The compositions are judged on hav- ing “originality, technical skill, and emergence of a personal vision or voice,” according to the official website. For those gifted artists who win a gold key, silver key, or an honor- able mention from the Scholastic Art Awards, their talents will not only be displayed around the school, but will also appear at the Colorado His- tory Museum from March 3, 2018 through March 30, 2018. Believe it or not, while these accomplishments are amazing by their own right, more accolades are yet to come. Any work that earned a re- gional gold key will be entered into the nationwide competition. After being judged by esteemed members of the art community, including alumni of this very contest, the students could possibly receive an ad- ditional gold or silver medal on a national scale. For the three seniors who submitted a portfolio containing eight works of art, they are eligible for up to a $10,000 scholarship if they win the gold medal, and $1,000 Gold Key Art Work By Reagen Haecker if they win the silver.

Gold Key Matthew Redmond (‘20)- Ceramics & Glass: Bubbles

Lauren Eppich (‘18)- Photography: Splash and Photography: Leah Kim (‘20)- Ceramic & Glass: Jellyfish Mask

Photo Portfolio Katja Matter (‘21)- Photography: Ritual Ivy Jones (‘18)- Photography: Electric, Photography: Cisco, and Photography: Photo Portfolio Silver Key Cordelia Lowry (‘18)- Photography: Cordelia Lowry Photo Port Alexander Wimer (‘18)- Sculpture: Mining folio Ivy Jones (‘18)- Photography: Crescent Tyler Whitaker (‘18)- Mixed Media: Cut Paper Self-Portraits Linden Schaible (‘18)- Photography: Chan Kohl Terry (‘18)- Mixed Media: Havana Stickball and Drawing and Illustration: Shoehorn Ari Diamond-Topelson (‘20)- Photography: Addis

Lindsay Garner (‘19)- Photography: Lighthouse – Hawaii

Emily Wilson (‘19)- Photography: Composite Honorable Mention

Reagen Haecker (‘19)- Metals Piece: Wheels Turning Rose Clark (‘18)- Mixed Media: Antique Shop

Claudia Melendez (‘19)- Ceramics & Glass: Floral Bird Nest Grant Ho (‘19)- Jewelry: A Modern-Day Renaissance Man

Ari Diamond-Topelson (‘20)- Photography: Night Reflection Anna Veltri (‘20)- Jewelry: Trailing Vine Droplets

Page 12, THE SUN DEVILS’ ADVOCATE, March 16, 2018 Commentary Combating And Owning My Anxiety, An Unruly Pet Every person fights their own battles dai- At this time, I hated my dog. He was cruel, he was mean, and he ly. I bet if I took one glance around, someone ruined my life. He took the opportunities I had and threw them into the near me would be battling something. They garbage. He destroyed my hope of ever ridding myself of his constant may be winning, or they may not, but they shadow. His presence was a dagger to my being. People were confused are still going through it. Personally, one of by my stressed actions, for they didn’t understand why they were there. the battles I fight is incredibly influential in I remember thinking, How do they not see him? How do they not under- my life. It makes me who I am, so I love it. stand?? For so long, I lived with a dog that everyone should have been But, it deprives me of so many opportunities, wary of, and whom everyone should have been concerned about. so I hate it. Anxiety is extremely prevalent in It wasn’t until I was older that I realized many people have dogs. my life, and sometimes it feels as if it will Some are little and insignificant, but some are even larger than my alarm- never go away. ing dog. People all over the world are dealing with their dangerous pets. My anxiety is like a dog. When I was Some don’t show it, and some do. But everyone is going through the Emerson Damiano younger, I had a huge dog that followed me impossible in their lives. I realized then that I wasn’t the only person who Commentary around everywhere. I would be led away lived under constant threat, and I wasn’t the only person who had to be from every experience that looked unsafe or careful in every aspect of one’s life. People all around me began teaching worrisome. When we would read about diseases or health issues in class, me how to tame my unruly pet. my dog would jump up and knock me down, attempting to get me away Soon, he wasn’t as strong. He warned me, he organized me, and he from the possible danger. I was constantly attacked and harassed by the kept me safe. Now, my dog nips at me every once and awhile, but I can potential. Potential and chance both consumed my everyday thoughts. control him. I understand when my dog is agitated, and I can use it to my But, to me, these situations felt like attacks. When I had an opportunity advantage. My dog is more of a part of me. He teaches me to become to grow out of my gradually increasing anxiety, my dog, its shadow bulk- more of who I am around people. He allows me to let loose and be happy. ing and encompassing, would threaten me once again. Suddenly, my dog Without my dog, I wouldn’t be the person I am today, despite the fact would bite. I wouldn’t see it coming, nor would I want my dog to come, that he once brought me so much torment. I love my dog because of his but he would just appear. Not only was I living under the control of ability to differentiate me. I have a view of this world very few will see. something imaginary, but he felt like an obstacle. Most days, my dog felt The fact that I was able to overcome his detrimental attacks gives me le- bigger than me, and he would scare others away, too. verage. As I said, this world is full of people and their pets. Many people The anger that my dog had was terrifying. I was terrified of him. He live their lives, unable to overcome the challenges and the attacks their couldn’t be controlled. He would growl at every passing person, and he own dogs throw at them. I love my dog because now I have the ability to would eliminate people from my life. Losing friends due to my notice- aid the lives of those troubled by worry. I love my dog because he gives able unhappiness was agonizing. He was in charge of me. If he pulled me conflict, he gives me a challenge, and he gives me ability. me away, I would have to go with. If he bit my hand, I would have to Anxiety is a huge issue in this modern world. It’s an illness that leads leave and collect myself. If he threatened others, I couldn’t be around to depression and other diseases that may be destructive to one’s life. As them. Slowly, experiences and opportunities melted away. I was a shell I continue to overcome it, I will help others in their challenge as well. I of a person, allowing myself to be controlled by something no one else am not defined by my anxiety, but I am defined as a person who can do understood. her best with the circumstances I was given. That is what I intend to do.

Graphic by Caroline Casey THE SUN DEVILS’ ADVOCATE, March 16, 2018 Page 13 Commentary Fighting For Kent’s Beloved Dungeon Kent Denver has some unique places. reflecting genuine emotion (something the dungeon does). Emotion is If you descend the stairs below Grant Hall, what makes us human. All people should be able to speak their truths, you will find a lone hallway stenciled in and it is up to others to choose how to react to their truths. calligraphy of colorful sharpie. Here, a variety Like others before me, I wish to save, preserve, and ultimately create of stories run rampant. Each is beautifully new life with the artwork in the dungeon. If the poems are painted over, written in the form of poetry. This place is it wouldn’t mean that art never existed in that space; it would mean “the dungeon.” something much worse. An artifact would be lost. That would be a true The English teacher extraordinaire, Mrs. loss for future students. Even if the dungeon is eventually painted over, Hansen, pioneered this project. The initiative the creative process inspired in that basement space will always remain originally served as a write of passage (pun real. While I never had a chance to add to the wall, I feel that myself and intended) for both Mrs. Hansen’s poetry and many others have so clearly profited meaningfully from the motivation Cecily Coors creative writing electives. At the end of the that started the whole project: a chance to discover what you believe and Commentary year, Mrs. Hansen allowed the students to a chance to share it. choose any poem that they had written to As my final words, I would like to say that if the school were to paint mark it up on the wall outside of the classroom. over the dungeon, the school would lose a part of its soul, its heart, and Many students (myself included) who have had the pleasure of being its magic. So, I urge that while this place is available, you go pay it a visit taught in the dungeon either wander down to class early or stick around and go find the magic for yourself. late to browse and mull over the work. Kent Denver graduates who wrote on the walls often come back to visit their old home. I have seen many race down to the dungeon to check if their work is still there and, indeed, it is! These students wanted something to leave behind. We, as a community and individuals, have a deep desire to express ourselves. We so deeply want to be heard and connect with the world. Because of its hidden location, the dungeon has served as a safe place to explore our identities, connect with others, discover our truths, and go on a journey of self-discovery. That journey is something beautiful, courageous, and lifelong. However (as with any good “Bachelorette” episode), there is trouble in paradise. In past years, Kent Denver has considered painting over the poems. Thankfully, a number of students along with Mrs. Hansen have fought the good fight and dissuaded Kent from painting it over. I am not certain why they would want to paint it over. However, I do know this: one of the reasons why authority labels certain pursuits as immature is that authority stands to lose the most from people seeing the truth—their truth. What all the very best literature and art accomplish is Photo by Reagen Haecker EmpowHERment Movement Building at KDS As teenagers, bility that we spend the first twenty or more The website contains a calendar with upcom- we are constantly years of our lives in school. We must first gain ing events that may interest female students, a told that the future knowledge and wisdom in our earlier years in list of books recommended for those seeking is ours; the fate order to later make informed decisions. Our feminist literature, and, eventually, there will of the world is in teachers take the time to teach us because they be a list of possible volunteer opportunities our hands. Today, know that one day they will pass the torch to with organizations that support gender equal- we watch our par- us. They base their curriculums around provid- ity. The website will soon be available through ents and their col- ing us the information and skills that we need a portal on the Kent Denver website. leagues run the will need to be successful adults. world, making the Through this website, our teachers are decisions that af- However, sometimes, it is when our teach- providing us with the opportunity to expand fect us all. How- ers go beyond their curriculum that we, their our understanding of female empowerment Caroline Casey ever, eventually it students, receive the education that will truly and grow into informed adult citizens. This Commentary will be us, the next propel us forward. On March 2, 2018, Kent website, created by our role models, has set generation. It will Denver’s EmpowHERment website was an unparalleled example for female students. be our decisions, our beliefs, and our leader- launched. Founded and created by female When women work together, the possibilities ship that will determine the state of our world. teachers at Kent, the EmpowHERment web- are endless. With this symbol of female leader- site provides female Kent students with the re- ship, our generation of female Kent students It is because of this imminent responsi- sources and avenues to pursue their passions. can go on to be empowered world leaders.

Page 14, THE SUN DEVILS’ ADVOCATE, March 16, 2018 Commentary Battling The Idea Of A ‘Perfect’ Body Imagine a ten-year-old girl sitting in the eating. This has been a constant battle, and it has become very bad, all comfort of her home. She turns on the televi- because she wants a body that she doesn’t have. Even though she is on sion and sees all of these so-called ‘perfect’ her deathbed, all she can think about is being ‘normal’ and ‘perfect.’ Her girls. Girls whose job it is to sell things with brain won’t allow her to get better, and she continues to relapse. I fear their bodies. Their flawless bodies. Their that soon her life is going to be cut short. bodies with flat stomachs and beautiful faces. Another one of my friends has struggled with her image since a very The young girl sees these girls and then looks young age. It began when she was in sixth grade, at age eleven, and it down at her own body. She doesn’t have this continues to be something she struggles with. In seventh grade, she de- so-called ‘perfect’ body, but now it’s all she veloped anorexia and was hospitalized for five months. She came very is ever going to want. She wants the body close to dying because of how horrible it got. It was hard for everyone to that all the boys won’t make fun of for being watch such a young girl struggle with such an unbearable obstacle. She ‘fat.’ She wants to be ‘perfect,’ and she won’t Lizzie Waters is currently doing better in her junior year of high school, but she is liv- stop until she gets it. It’s all she thinks about; ing with the long term consequences. Her heart health has significantly Commentary it’s the only thing she wants, but she doesn’t declined, and she is no longer able to go up to the mountains because know how to get it. So she develops the idea her heart is so weak that it is not safe to be at such high altitudes. Her in her mind that if she doesn’t eat, it will fix everything. She fades away insecurities completely ruined her relationship with her older sister from and by the time she is fourteen, she has already been hospitalized twice. seventh grade until her sophomore year. She was jealous of her sister and She doesn’t see that everybody is perfect in his/her own way. She lets how ‘flawless’ she seemed to be. She would see her sister’s body and she herself go, and just a few years later, she dies from starvation just be- would wonder why her stomach wasn’t as flat, why she wasn’t ‘perfect’ cause she wanted a ‘perfect’ body. This happens to girls around the world like her sister. This led my friend to be so disappointed with herself after with far too much frequency. There is way too much pressure on girls to she physically recovered from her anorexia that she would hold matches strive to be flawless. to the fragile skin on her stomach and would burn herself because she The American Journal of Maternal/Child Nursing says the average was infuriated that her stomach wasn’t as flat as she craved it to be. It has girl’s self-esteem drops at age twelve and they stay self-conscious un- been a long struggle, but she has finally stopped paying attention to the til they finally reach age twenty. On average, that is about eight years models. She has started to believe that everyone has their own perfec- of wanting to be someone they’re not, craving a body that they don’t tions and their own impurities. After many years of struggling, she began have. This tears girls down, and it only gets worse when they show up junior year healthier than she has even been. to school and suddenly everyone else seems perfect and all they can see Some may say that seeing all of the fit and skinny girls makes peo- in their self are imperfections. It makes them want to hide away and ple more determined to look like that. They might say that it will make never show what they really look like. Just seeing one ad, one magazine, people want to be healthy and push them to their goal of a healthy body. one ‘flawless’ friend can change one’s life forever. Wanting to have the While that may be true in some cases, to reach that ‘healthy’ point of bodies of the girls in magazines often leads to eating disorders, most having the ‘perfect body,’ many girls take a very unhealthy path to get commonly anorexia. there. Anorexia is not a healthy way to live, and, in the end, it makes their Anorexia is defined as a mental disorder characterized by an obses- bodies very unhealthy and even look unhealthy just from losing so much sive desire to lose weight by refusing to eat. Victims want these perfectly fat, muscle, and bone mass. skinny bodies, but often times when one becomes anorexic, he/she fades Anorexia can have detrimental effects on any age, and seeing it my- away and become just bone. There is always going to be someone in the self has shown me the importance of self-confidence and how the lack world that a person wants to look like, but many people don’t know how of it can ruin, even end, precious, young and innocent lives. There is no to reach their goal of having ‘the perfect body,’ and they can’t give up such thing as the ‘perfect body,’ yet so many people strive to have this on it because society is constantly telling them that they need to look a thing that does not exist. certain way. According to the Mirasol Eating Disorder Recovery Center, anorexia is known to cause many long-term problems such as chronic malnutrition, heart problems, bone and muscle loss, depression, and more. Anorexia Nervosa has the highest death rate of all other psychiat- ric illnesses, and it is such a serious illness, that if gone untreated, 20% of those diagnosed end up passing away. Two of my closest friends have struggled on and off with body image issues and anorexia because the both of them constantly feel pressured to look like ‘everyone else.’ It has come to a detrimental point for the both of them, and their mind continually forces them back into their anorexic ways. My best friend has a lethal skin disease and is predicted to die soon, and the doctors have her on, hopefully, life-saving medications, but they have caused her to gain weight. She has already struggled with anorexia before, but now, with the extra weight, she has gone back to her old ways. She refuses to take her pills because she wants to be ‘perfect’ and they may stop her from having the body she wants. She is currently being hospitalized because of how weak she got from skipping pills and not Graphic by Caroline Casey THE SUN DEVILS’ ADVOCATE, March 16, 2018 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

Rock Climbers Hangin’ Around At A Competition!

Photo by Andrew Goldblatt

You’ve almost reached Spring Break; climb on!

Page 16, THE SUN DEVILS’ ADVOCATE, March 16, 2018