Issue 8 - April, 2025

Editors Note

Happy April Panthers! There's officially only two more months of school left! The Paw Print is to excited to announce that our May Issue will have a paper publish to end the school year with a bang, so be sure to watch out for that! Anyways, I hope everyone (especially the seniors) all finish the last few months of school with a bang! I hope you enjoy this issue, as it will be our final normal issue for the year!

Keep Pushing Yourself!

By: Michelle Hayse

With just two months left of school we encourage you to not lose your spark and to keep trying to get the best grades you can. This is an exciting month for multiple grades in our school. We have our Freshman Promise, Junior Ring Ceremony, Junior Ring Dance and Senior Prom coming up. We cannot wait to see how amazing everyone looks at these events. But please remember that your grades still matter too. A lot of people think that their rolling Grade Point Average (GPA) does not matter, but it does. This GPA carries your whole high school experience. With our last few months left, please push yourself to do the best you can do. As always, reach out to a trusted adult if you feel overwhelmed and need someone to talk to!

Senior Prom Concerns

By: Jasmine Luxemburger

NOTE: This article is for educational purposes only, no hate should be given to the senior sponsors or class officers

Senior prom is right around the corner and the theme was recently just released! The theme for senior prom 2025 is... Mardi Gras! As the theme was announced the senior class has very different mixed thoughts and opinions on it. Many love the theme while others hate it. The Paw Print conducted a poll with students voting if they liked or disliked the senior prom theme. 37 students responded to the poll with the results being 32% of the 37 students voted that they liked the prom theme while the other 68% of the students disliked the prom theme. The photo of the poll will be located at the bottom of the article.

The Paw Print asked students to share more thoughts or opinions on the prom theme. Here are some of the responses we were given:

“I just feel like we could’ve had a better theme than that… Mardi Gras is too dark and I feel like we could’ve had a Heavenly Bodies theme (basically a royalty theme) in my opinion or even a Hollywood theme.” - Chaze Logan

“I do not like the theme because of some of the traditions that go on during Mardi Gras, like how you show your boobs for beads. I think it's more about the history to be honest.” - Mekensi Disspayne

“Honestly nobody ever even really follows these themes they just wear what they think is cute I feel like, so it’s not that big of a deal, but like really bro Mardi Gras??? Cmon lol. Also it’s kinda an inappropriate theme for highschool I think, especially with how sexual Mardi Gras is with the beads and stuff I don’t know I just think it’s kinda weird.” - Parker Kraatz

As you can see students have very mixed feelings about their senior prom theme. Some students have vocalized their concerns more than others, but as of now the prom theme will remain the same. The date for senior prom is May 17th. We hope to see you there!

Graduation Is Almost Here!

By: Brooklyn Box

Seniors, graduation is in one month! Pleasure Ridge Park's graduation will be held May 27th at the Broadbent Arena. The ceremony starts at 9 a.m., but graduates are expected to be there by 8:15 a.m. Tickets for the event are free and anyone is welcome to come. Don't forget to bring some cash as there is a $12 dollar parking fee!

PRP Men's Volleyball

By: Michelle Hayse

As our men's volleyball team's season is beginning to start up, I want to share out all of the highlights from the team. The men's team is coached by: Eli Horn. Their team captains are: Ali Alfatla (senior), Royce Standard (senior), and Corrie Smith (junior). Though the season just started, the boys have a long season ahead of them. The team practices up to 3 times a week, from 3:30 to 5:30, with the exception of games weekly. In the month of April, the team has 10 games (you can find the date, location and time below). The boys come together to build a strong foundation and continue to work hard both in practice and during games. The team is eager to see the love and support from our panthers, anyone is welcomed to their games!! Don’t forget to show up and show out for our men’s team! If you have any questions about PRP Men's Volleyball, please contact Coach Eli Horn, or Coach Waddell for more information.

Going Green

By: Lily Zerwekh

If you're thinking about gardening this spring, this is your sign to do so! There are many benefits to gardening that you may not even think about, including reduced stress and increased exercise. You will also be boosting biodiversity and improving ecological systems. The hobby does not have to be expensive and is a great way to spend time outdoors. Although the task of starting a garden may seem daunting at first, once you have everything set up, there's really not much to it.

Start by finding a sunny spot in your backyard and decide what you want to plant. The best things to plant in April include:

Broccoli
Cabbage
Carrots
Lettuce
Peas

Potatoes

Spinach

Kale

Dahlias

Lilies

Pansies

Violas

Once you've decided what you want to grow, clear any weeds and debris that is in the chosen area. Prepare the garden by loosening the soil, this can be done with a shovel if you don't own a rototiller. Now it's time to plant! Water accordingly and make sure to research your specific plant for the best outcome possible!

Where Did Our Mirrors Go?

By Taylor Ford

More than a year ago, the mirrors in the main building’s bathrooms were taken down. It was a sad day! Ms. Scott-Berger immediately ensured it wasn’t just the female bathroom missing our beautiful mirrors. No one was happy about it. The conflict surrounding the mirrors actually began right after we came back from COVID-19.

Do you remember the devious lick challenge? I definitely do. My eighth grade year was my first back into civilization after months of social isolation. The pandemic was a great time for TikTok, and it only continued.

There were trends of dancing, edits, and—you called it—theft! My middle school restroom had stolen soap dispensers and toilet paper. We literally had to be monitored as we went in and out.

It was a bit more progressive at PRP! The biggest issue was stealing mirrors. With a discussion with our newer principal Mr. Stinson, I learned that the top priority at this time was student safety. The concern of broken glass injuring another weighed over their heads. Mirrors in the men’s bathroom were taken down during the 2021-2022 school year.

Last year’s removal, however, was something entirely different. It’s a persistent problem that’s actually in consideration this May: phones! The girls in the restrooms were “TikToking”—as Stinson said—and just generally skipping class. Security guards have noted a positive impact of this removal in regards to cutting class.

I honestly think people are going to skip and make TikToks regardless. As we’ve seen many, many times before, banning something doesn’t really make the problem go away. Every time I enter a restroom, there’s a group of girls chatting away. Is it a PRP problem, or is it a high school problem?

Mr. Stinson has stated that mirrors are actually in consideration! Staff’s actions, Stinson has said, are reactions to student behavior. They didn’t want to take down the mirrors, they just had an issue that led to the removal. Our mirrors’ return seems to be very soon, and almost definite if a stricter phone ban passes through JCPS.

The Principal's Advisory Board is said to give students an opportunity to express their opinions in situations like these. Get involved! You have so much more power and influence than you think. A great step in being involved is to be knowledgeable on the things going on in your community. A great way to do that is by reading The Paw Print. See you next year!

Did You Know About DECA? Discover The Experience That Drives You To Grow!

By: Gabriela Cobas Grave de Peralta

When we hear the word "competition," we often imagine an intense battle where only a few emerge victorious. But what if I told you there's a competition where everyone supports, motivates, and grows together? That's the magic of DECA.

DECA is more than a club; it's a global community of emerging leaders and entrepreneurs shaping the future. By joining, you not only develop key skills in business, marketing, finance, and entrepreneurship, but you also have the opportunity to meet people with similar interests, learn from others with more experience in the industry, and challenge yourself in a positive and motivating environment.

What makes DECA special is that, although it's a competition, it doesn't feel like one. Instead of rivalry, there's a strong sense of mutual support. Participants wish each other luck, support each other, help each other improve, and celebrate each other's achievements. It's a space where every presentation, every idea, and every experience becomes a learning opportunity.

My experience at DECA has been unforgettable. It has allowed me to grow academically and professionally. It has also given me confidence in my abilities and inspired me to continue exploring this world. If you're looking for an opportunity to challenge yourself, learn, and connect with other passionate students, DECA is for you.

Don't miss this opportunity! Find out how you can join and experience a competition that will transform your future.

The Spiritual Spring

By: Alexandra Lopez Fagundo

The arrival of spring comes as a reminder of the strength of new beginnings. Everything blossoms again after the winter's cool, as though nature restores its energy and gives life and space to every color. The sun meets us with a warm blanket of light, allowing us to acknowledge the beauty. In our life, the same process takes place. If we allow our intentions the time and space to flourish, they will grow over time much like a seed. Spring does not come all of a sudden, but when it does, it comes with it all of its beauty, pouring onto us the universe's beauty, which is present in everything. Beauty manifested in the world.

We encounter seasons as well on the inner path. There are times when we need quiet time to reflect, such as during the winter, where we slow down, reflect back, and process what has happened. Every thought and mental shift channels an emotion, much like a flower emerging within us. Even though it isn't always evident, a small step combined with consistent effort leads to a deeper blossoming and growth, which manifests itself in ideas and acts like flowers in a magnificent, eternal garden.

In other words, spring reminds us that we can always find rebirth. All we need is the patience and willingness to let our souls blossom too. Let us allow love, tenderness, and hope to permeate our intentions. In order for us to see it reflected in the spring, let the beauty of who we are blossom into our reality. May we behold the blossoming of our spirits as well as the flowers.

La primavera del alma.

La primavera está aquí una vez más recordándonos el poder de los nuevos comienzos. Después del frío del invierno, todo vuelve a florecer nuevamente, como si la tierra renovará su energía dando vida y espacio a todos los colores con un sol acogedor que nos envuelve cálido manto de luz y nos permite ver la belleza. Este mismo proceso se da en nuestra vida espiritual. Al igual que una semilla, nuestras intenciones crecen poco a poco, si le damos espacio y la paciencia para hacerlo. La primavera no llega de golpe, pero cuando lo hace, lo hace con todo su esplendor, bendiciendonos con la belleza del universo, encontrándo se en cada una de las cosas. La vida la belleza encarnada.

En el camino espiritual, también pasamos por ciclos. A veces necesitamos periodos de calma, permitiéndonos la reflexión, como en el invierno, una pausa para desacelerar, recordar, e integrar lo vivido. Cada reflexión, cada cambio de mentalidad, es como una flor que brota en nuestro interior canalizando un sentimiento. Aunque a veces pasa desapercibido, con sutil paso, el trabajo constante nos lleva a un florecimiento y expansión más profunda, que se expresa en acciones y pensamientos, como las flores en un majestuoso jardín infinito.

La primavera, entonces, nos enseña que la renovación está siempre a nuestro alcance. Solo necesitamos el tiempo y la disposición para permitir que nuestra alma también florezca. Permitamos que nuestras intenciones estén llenas de amor, ternura y confianza. Permitamos que la belleza de nuestro ser se expanda en nuestra realidad para verla reflejada en la primavera. Es hora de recoger lo aprendido y dirigir toda esa energía hacia un nuevo horizonte. Que el florecimiento no solo este en las flores pero en nuestra alma

Issue 7 - March, 2025

Editor's Note

Happy March Panthers! As we enter the month of March we are reminded of the arrival of spring! In this issue we wrote about many things such as, luck, appreciation, womens history month, and much more! We put a lot of effort into this issue this month so we hope you enjoy!

Luck or Illusion?

By: Jasmine Luxemburger

Have you ever played that one person in rock paper scissors and they win every time? You may think they have crazy luck, while others say they’re just good at the game. Luck is the success of one's actions brought by chance. Some believe that luck is influenced by an external force or energy and is to bring good fortune. Luck is said to be given to people who “deserve” it or who have “good karma.” While some believe in luck others think it's just a matter of chance.

While you have people who don’t believe in luck, some do believe. Many people believe luck is the right place at the right time type of thing, while others feel that it is a way to find a purpose or meaning for an event that might be out of their control. Sophie Mayhew, a student at PRP, believes that luck is the way the universe gives back to you. She states, “if you do good in the world, the world will be good back to you.” She says that being a light in people's world is a way of luck, by creating forever bonds with her friends.

On the other hand, many people don't believe in luck. Luck is seen as just probability and statistics. In people's eyes, a coin flip is determined by physics, not luck. Patrick Yochum, a teacher at PRP, does not believe in luck. He believes that things can feel lucky but luck is not an actual thing. He states, “As a Christian, I believe God knows the plan for our lives and has already set in place things that will happen, so luck does not really have a place.”

In the end, whether luck is real or not may depend on personal beliefs and perspectives. Some people have comfort when the idea of luck comes up while others just laugh and turn it away. While the question remains a mystery, all we have to say is… Do you believe in luck?

Celebrating Us; Women's History Month

By: Lily Zerwekh

Women are our mothers. Our Sisters. Our doctors. Our teachers. Our engineers. Women make society what it is. Women's History Month is the month that celebrates all the achievements women have made.

We couldn't wear pants until the mid-20th century. We couldn't go to college until 1837. We couldn't even file for divorce until 1937. Thanks to the women who came before us, we can vote, we can go to work, we can have an education, and we can be our own people in society.

As our healthcare is being taken away from us, as we see history repeat itself, we now have a loud voice. We have a tall platform and a large audience. Now more than ever, we need Women's History Month.

Welcoming Jason Stinson As PRP's New Principal

By: Hunter Quire

Jason Stinson was announced as the principal of Pleasure Ridge Park High School on January 31st. Students at PRP have generally reacted positively to the news, with many expressing excitement about Stinson’s potential to enhance the school’s environment. In a recent interview I asked him about his new role as principal.

“I’m extremely excited to be principal of a school that I've been a part of for the last 21 and a half years. It’s a blessing to work with people I care about, to be with students I care about, and to move us forward toward becoming a great high school. I’m very excited to get started,” he said.

Transitioning to this new role will be an adjustment for both Stinson and the PRP students. They are accustomed to being able to communicate with him easily, as he has always maintained an open-door policy. Lately, however, students have found it somewhat more challenging to reach him. He hopes this will improve over time. Stinson intends to maintain an open-door policy, stating that if he isn't available, his email is always open.

When asked how he plans to improve the school, Stinson emphasized teamwork: “I believe we as a team can help improve the school. It’s not about ‘i’ or ‘me’; it’s about having leadership and a vision to guide us where we need to go.” He believes that excellence at the school extends beyond just student grades; it encompasses how everyone interacts in the hallways, speaks to one another, and presents themselves as a community.

Stinson has faith in the school, and he hopes for the same from the students regarding his leadership. The PRP community looks forward to the improvements that lie ahead and is excited about the future of the school. Congratulations, Mr Stinson!

We Appreciate You!

By: Michelle Hayse

It's the month of luck! Our Paw Print is beyond lucky to have such loving supporters. We are grateful for your support and to those who interact with our articles. We encourage you to please keep reading and interacting. We truly love your involvement. We enjoy taking your suggestions and writing what you guys want to hear. We feel as if your input is important!! If you have any suggestions on what we could write about, or even if you would like to submit your own writing pieces, please feel free to send them in!!

Five Free Things To Do In March!

By: Taylor Ford

Speed Art Museum (Sundays): From 12 PM to 5 PM, the museum exhibits countless works of art at zero costs every Sunday! This opportunity is thanks to Brown-Forman, and lasts through 2026.

Family Movie Night (March 1): At 6 PM in the KFC Yum Center, The Super Mario Bros movie will be screened with free admission! You just need to register in advance.

Flea Off Market (March 1-2): The Flea Off Market happens a few times throughout the year. This year, the spring market will happen at Breslin Park. There’ll be vendors selling crafts, collectibles, music, and more. There’s always live music and food trucks to go along with the event!

St. Patrick's Day Parade (March 8): For the past 50 years, the Louisville Ancient Order of Hibernians has hosted the event full of floats and music. There’ll be marching band(s), food, and green beer! It’s an annual celebration that’ll take place in the Highlands neighborhood on the eighth of March at 3 PM.

NuLu Block Fest (March 22): Following the St. Patrick’s theme, this festival is to celebrate Louisville’s beer history! On March 22, you’ll find Market Street lined with music and Louisville breweries. They hold goat races, and a competition between restaurants to create the best cased sausage. Restaurants tend to celebrate a bit after, but the Block Fest will take place from 12 PM to 6 PM.

What If Tomorrow Never Came? A Reflection On Living In The Present.

By Gabriela Cobas

If you knew you were going to die tomorrow, how would you spend today? Would you rush to complete unfinished dreams, tell your loved ones how much they mean to you, or just sit still and appreciate the moments you so often overlook?

We often live as if time is infinite, postponing happiness with thoughts like, “When I have more money, I will travel” or “Once I achieve this goal, I will finally be happy.” We convince ourselves that fulfillment exists somewhere in the future, not realizing that the only time we truly possess is NOW.

We may be physically present, but our minds are lost somewhere else, in plans and endless to-do lists. We scroll through our phones while sitting next to the people we love, missing out on real conversations. We wait for the “perfect” moment to say I love you, express our affection and how important others are in our lives, forgetting that tomorrow is never promised.

But what if we changed that? What if, instead of waiting, we accepted life as it is: messy, unpredictable, but full of beauty? What if we expressed our love freely, laughed a little louder, and found joy in the little moments?

Life is fleeting and ephemeral, none of us know how many tomorrows we have left. So let’s take a deep breath, look around, love fully, appreciate the little things in life, focus on the positive, and live in the present. Because in the end, it’s not the days we count that matter, but the moments that really count.

Small Business Shoutout: La Orchila

Hey Guys, today we want to inform you about Kristyn González. This beautiful young student has created their own business. This business is called La Orchila (BOUTIQUE FEMENINA), where they sell clothing and accessories. We highly encourage you to check out this business and help support them on their journey. We wish you the best of luck, and cannot wait to hear more about your business. Also, if you are interested in having your personal business published in the Paw Print, please fill out the following form; form link

Small Business Shoutout: Creationsbymariee

Hey again! We want to introduce you to Jayling. The owner of creationsbymariee. They make flower bouquets out of ribbon. A perfect gift for that special someone in your life. Their creations are beautiful, we love their style. These are very beautiful flowers that can last a long time. We encourage you to continue to purchase their creations and continue to support them. Also, if you are interested in having your personal business published in the Paw Print, please fill out the following form; form link

Short Analysis Of Kingdom Come Deliverance 2

By: Maddiel Dominguez Urquiaga

Kingdom Come Deliverance 2 is the new game of Warhorse. In this article I will talk about the new mechanics and changes.(This article is only my opinion and experience. I am not discussing Easter Eggs.)

I begin with the new mechanics in this game: the smithy. This part of the game is amazing. You can make many melee weapons such as a short sword, a large sword and an axe. How you make the weapons depends upon whether you are creating a good or a bad weapon.This game now has a grade to increase the damage and durability. If you want to get the max grade the only form you can increase is the ability of smithy. (The minimum level of ability you need to make these weapons are about 15-20.)

I continued with the combat of melee. There is a slight change. Now the direction you can attack is changed. For example if you use a sword with a shield the only directions you can attack are: Up ,Left and Right. If you only use a sword you can attack down. The type of weapons you use in the location changes, so if you want you can use them. The range weapons have changed and now come with two new types: the crossbow and hand cannon.The crossbow in the beginning of the game is the first range weapon you use and is like an introduction of this weapon.The hand cannon is a fire weapon but is more like a shotgun because it is difficult to use but it causes a lot of damage.

This is a short analysis. I recommended this game 100%.

Feeling Lost? These 5 Quotes Will Help You Find Your Way

By Alexandra Lopez Fagundo

There are times when life seems stressful, with school, responsibilities, and the expectation to have everything figured out. It can feel like the weight of the world is on our shoulders and we are not strong enough to carry it. You are not alone if you have ever felt isolated, unmotivated, or uncertain about your future. Sometimes all it takes is a few inspiring words to remind us of our strength and potential.

Here are five motivating quotes to help you navigate uncertainty and find your way forward:

“Darkness cannot drive out darkness: only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate: only love can do that.” - Martin Luther King Jr.

Remember that positivity and kindness are the strongest forces for change, even in difficult times. In love, there is no fear. The only way to combat hate is with love. Let's remember to guide our lives by this principle.

"Peace demands the most heroic labor and the most difficult sacrifice. It demands greater heroism than war. It demands greater fidelity to the truth and a much more perfect purity of conscience." - Thomas Merton

We need courage, honesty, and dedication, in order to bring peace both in the world and within ourselves. It requires the continuous decision to choose love over fear.

“Happiness flows not from physical or external conditions, such as bodily pleasures or wealth and power, but from living a life that's right for your soul, your deepest good" - Socrates

True satisfaction comes from finding alignment and harmony with what our soul seeks.

"Peace is not absence of conflict, it is the ability to handle conflict by peaceful means." - Ronald Reagan

Peace is possible even in apparent external conflict. Peace does not come from controlling obstacles but from our perspective towards them; approaching with a heart full of peace leads us to true growth and change.

"We plant seeds that will flower as results in our lives, so best to remove the weeds of anger, avarice, envy and doubt, that peace and abundance may manifest for all." - Dorothy Day

Our ideas and actions shape the reality we see. Choosing abundance and peace over hate and fear results in a happy life.

Issue 6 - February, 2025

Editors Note

Happy February Panthers! The season of love is here, or how I think of it a month closer to graduation. Anyways we have some amazing stories in The Paw Print for you this month! You can find out how you can watch your ex be eaten or even learn how you can be featured in this years issue of The Pulse! I want to say that I believe we can finish out this year strong and do not get behind! Seniors were almost done keep pushing you got it! We hope you enjoy this months issue, happy reading!

Watch Your Ex Be Eaten! (Not Really)

By: Lily Zerwekh

Upset with your relationship status? Want to get back at your ex? Don't have Valentine's day plans?

We've got you covered. Brookfield Zoo in Illinois is allowing you to name a cockroach after your ex. This could also be a great way to make your friends laugh. Your cockroach will be fed to the other zoo animals. You don't actually have to live in Illinois to participate. Just click the link https://www.brookfieldzoo.org/Cockroach , fill out the form, make a small donation of $15 to support the zoo, and you're done! Along with the satisfaction of knowing that your "ex" will be eaten, you will receive a certificate that you can hang up and share. There will also be a board at the zoo with all the first names of the cockroaches (will also be posted on social media). Name a cockroach, it's for a great cause!

The PRP Pulse Is Back!!

By: Jasmine Luxemburger

It's that time of the year again where The PRP Pulse is accepting submissions! Time to get your creativity flowing and possibly showcased in The Pulse! You may be wondering “What is The Pulse?” The Pulse is an award-winning art and literary book made to show what the students at PRP can create and come up with! The hosting teachers of The Pulse are Ms. Scott-Berger and Mrs. Webb. Scott-Berger is a Senior English and Journalism teacher while Mrs. Webb is an art teacher. Each issue is $4 each, but if a student is featured in the publication, you will receive a free copy of the issue.

In order to submit your art or writing pieces to The Pulse you must join the Google Classroom with the code WOWXYYY. The deadline for all submissions is February 21, 2025. If you are unable to get a good photo of your artwork stop by E1 (Mrs. Webb) and she will photograph it for you. All images must be a minimum of 8 x 10 inches / 300 dpi. All writing pieces have a maximum of 3,000 words and you can submit up to 3 writing pieces. All submissions should be written in 12-point, double spaced, and must be submitted on a Google Document . Submit the writing pieces under the heading “Writing Pieces.” You will be notified by February 23, 2025 if your submission was selected for The Pulse. Goodluck and happy writing!

February Date Ideas

Dates to have with your significant other this Valentines Day

By Michelle Hayse

Valentine's Day is approaching very fast. Here is a list of fun things you can do with your valentine!

Picnic dates! (You both pick your favorite snacks and meals and go to a peaceful area to enjoy the view and spend time with one another.)

Bake something together! (Valentine's Day is full of treats, so why not bake something with the one you love)

Go skating (whether it is ice skating or skating, it truly is a good time for you to come together and try something new, or participate in something you love.)

Have a photoshoot. (Photos are a good way to preserve memories. Plus, who wouldn't want to have more pictures)

There are so many more things you can do this month! It is important to find things that you and your partner enjoy doing together.

Welcome, Dr. Teri Reed, Interim Principal

By: Anthony Judd

We’re excited to welcome Dr. Teri Reed as PRP’s new interim principal. With a Doctorate in Education and 16 years of experience as a principal and assistant principal in JCPS, Dr. Reed brings a wealth of knowledge and leadership to our school.

"My primary goal is to make sure everything runs smoothly during this transition. I want to set the stage for long-term success at PRP," Dr. Reed shared.

In her brief time here, Dr. Reed is eager to connect with the vibrant PRP community. "PRP has such a strong sense of community, and I’m grateful to be part of it, even for a short time. I want to support the amazing work already happening while being approachable and present for students and staff," she said.

Let’s give Dr. Reed a warm welcome and show her what makes PRP such a special place!

Disclaimer About Paw Print Buddies

RESULTS ARE COMING OUT!! With this being said, please ensure the Prp Paw Print instagram page can message you, we have had multiple candidates who we cannot reach! Please text us on instagram (@pawprintprp) to confirm we can text you, or you can email us (judith.scott-berger@jefferson.kyschools.us) with your phone number! Thank you again for your participation!!

Is Romantic Love Just An Illusion?

By Alexandra Lopez Fagundo

Throughout history, romantic love has been idealized in music, literature, cinema, and popular culture. The notion of “happily ever after” has deeply rooted itself in our minds, and we can't seem to get over it, or even question it. This idealization has given rise to a series of myths that condition our expectations in relationships and limit our ability to form genuine connections. While love itself is a profoundly positive experience, the myths associated with it often lead us to accept or create toxic, manipulative, and harmful dynamics. These myths are erroneous beliefs that hinder the development of healthy and authentic relationships.

“You need your other half to complete you”

This is one of the most persistent myths. The idea of “your other half.” It assumes that each person is incomplete and requires a complement to fill their emptiness, as though only one specific person can complete the “puzzle.” Living with this mindset can be incredibly damaging. First, it is rooted in absence, “you lack something.” The idea that you need someone to feel whole fosters attachment to a partner onto whom you project your ideals, often leading to manipulative behavior as you try to control them to match your image of the “perfect other half.”

This myth also promotes the idea that you cannot be happy on your own, placing unnecessary pressure and expectations on a relationship to fill that internal void. It becomes challenging to bring happiness and understanding into a relationship when you have not yet cultivated these qualities within yourself.

“Love requires sacrifice and suffering”

Relationships naturally come with challenges; after all, if understanding ourselves is complex, we cannot expect it to be any easier with another person. Relationships require effort, but let us not confuse effort with sacrifice or suffering.

All relationships involve compromise and adjustments, but it is essential to distinguish between healthy sacrifices and harmful ones. Believing in this myth can lead people to tolerate toxic behaviors, violence, or prolonged unhappiness out of fear of “giving up” or seeming insufficiently committed. However, love must always be rooted in respect and in the mutual pursuit of well-being for both individuals.

The Savior and Victim Complex

These toxic dynamics are repeated more often than we imagine since we are mostly unaware of it. In situations like this, one person assumes the role of the “savior,” while the other person positions themselves as the “victim.” This may at first seem like a loving practice, of apparent mutual help. However, it creates a cycle of emotional dependence and manipulation. “The savior,” for example, takes their value in the relationship by saving or fixing the other person. This comes from the desire to feel useful or needed, and in combination with insecurity, it happens when you neglect your own limits and well-being. “The victim” on the other hand has a passive role in the relationship, the person takes on a role in which they need the other person to solve problems and places the responsibility of their own state and well-being on the other. This only reinforces feelings of incapacity and perpetuates the need to be modest and attachment.

Building Healthier Relationships

These are just a few examples of beliefs that, even if we do not actively endorse, often reside deep within our subconscious. To cultivate healthy relationships, it is crucial to reflect honestly on ourselves and question the attitudes we bring into our connections with others.

True relationships are based on mutual respect and understanding. Do not seek love out of fear or a sense of lack; instead, work on yourself so you can freely share your most authentic self with someone else. The most beautiful kind of love starts within you. The first relationship you must nurture is the one you have with yourself. Take care of yourself, and from that place of self-love, extend kindness and care to others.

5 Black-Owned Restaurants To Visit In Louisville

Wanting to support a black-owned business this Black History Month? Consider stopping by one of these restaurants here in Louisville!

By: Brooklyn Box

Big Momma's Soul Kitchen

Big Momma’s Soul Kitchen is located on 28th Street and serves a variety of soul food dishes. Their dishes consist of baked, fried, and smothered foods. One thing that makes this restaurant stand out is their daily specials. Big Momma’s is open Wednesday through Sunday, from 12 pm to 6 pm.

Shirley Mae’s Cafe

Shirley Mae’s Cafe is a soul food bar stationed on South Clay Street. They are well known for their fried catfish and chicken wings, as well as their banana pudding. Shirley Mae’s is open Thursday through Sunday, from 11 am to 9 pm.

The Peach Cobbler Factory

If you have a sweet tooth you’ll love The Peach Cobbler Factory. Located on Bardstown Road, this restaurant serves a wide variety of deserts such as cobblers, puddings, shakes, brownies and much more. The Peach Cobbler Factory is open everyday from 12 pm to 11 pm, and is also available on DoorDash!

Back Deck BBQ

Back Deck BBQ is a food truck stationed on West Kenwood Drive, and offers a ton of barbecue options. Every meal comes with a side and a drink, and there's kid’s meal options as well. The outdoor seating makes this place a great choice for a warm afternoon. Back Deck is open Tuesday through Sunday, from 11 am to 8 pm.

The Black Italian

The Black Italian is an Italian restaurant located on Highland Avenue. This place offers a variety of foods such as shrimp linguine, lasagna, paninis, lots of different types of pastas, as well as many salad options. The Black Italian offers outdoor seating, as well as catering options for bigger events.

Supporting Small Businesses: Kentucky Spotless Detailing

Kentucky Spotless Detailing is a company run by a student in our school community. Ali Alfatla has created a business and is hoping to gain a community of supporters. Kentucky Spotless Detailing is a sole proprietorship, meaning his company is owned and run by one individual. He has created his own website, logo and upcoming business on his own. While the majority of our Paw Print writers know Ali personally, we can honestly say he is a good-natured, studious and handles vehicles expeditiously. Ali provides car detailing services and leaves vehicles looking better than when they came. You can find KSD's information at KySpotlessDetailing on Instagram and TikTok, you can also look at his website for more information, (Kentucky Spotless Detailing). We strongly agree with supporting small businesses and highly encourage you to book with Ali. Please let us know, or reach out to Ali personally for any questions. Don't hesitate to reach out and leave a review!!

Scream + Emo = Screamo

By: Taylor Ford

Screamo is the stereotypical older brother music. It’s something you’d hear blaring from Rodrick Heffley’s room. The genre’s a subgenre of emo/punk. (Scream + Emo = Screamo!) It can be identified by the distorted guitars and screaming vocals, but it’s become broader over the years. Just like any genre, Screamo has history!

In 1990s San Diego, bands Antioch Arrow (1992-1994) and Heroin (1989-1993) basically paved the foundation for screamo. This type of music blew up on the Eastern Coast of the U.S., and bands like I Hate Myself (1996) expanded the genre! Being derived from hardcore punk, the lyrics are often related to human rights, or have great emotional value. Although “screamo” gained popularity, a lot of bands under the category didn’t even like it.

Bert McCracken from The Used said that screamo was just a term for “record companies to sell records and for record stores to categorize them.” The lead vocalist of Pg. 99, a 90s Virginian punk band, said he never liked “that whole screamo thing.” Bands were very loyal to that “punk” title.

People didn’t like nu-metal either. Nu-metal was made to distinguish the newer wave of metal from the metal everyone already knows and loves. Similarly, the term “Skramz” was made to classify the first wave of screamo. It’s been about three decades since screamo’s creation, and it’s been frequently experimented with.

Genres like electronic screamo, pop screamo, and post-screamo are all subgenres that branched out from skramz/screamo. Music is an artform, and art has always been political. Punk music is just one example. I encourage everyone to experiment with their music taste; there are hundreds of subgenres out there. During your time on Earth, indulge in as much media as possible.

Honoring the Complete Legacy of Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

By: Anthony Judd

NOTE: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of this publication. The following below is a written editorial.

Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. is rightfully celebrated as a towering figure of the Civil Rights Movement, a champion of equality, and an orator whose words continue to inspire generations. Yet, often overshadowed by his activism is his vocation that grounded his mission, his service as a reverend. King’s vocation as a minister was not merely a title, it was the foundation of his calling, shaping his vision for justice, his strategies for change, and his enduring legacy. To omit this piece of King’s legacy is to distort the truth.

The Foundation of Faith

Martin Luther King Jr. was born into a family steeped in the traditions of ministry. His father, Reverend Martin Luther King Sr., served as the pastor of Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta, where young Martin witnessed firsthand the power of the pulpit as a force for both spiritual and social upliftment. This upbringing instilled in him a belief that the church was not only a house of worship but also a platform for advocacy and community leadership.

King’s theological journey took him from Morehouse College to Crozer Theological Seminary and eventually Boston University, where he earned a doctorate in systematic theology. During his studies, King engaged deeply with the works of theologians like Reinhold Niebuhr and philosophers like Hegel and Gandhi, crafting a theology that fused Christian teachings with social justice. For example, his doctoral dissertation on “A Comparison of the Conceptions of God in the Thinking of Paul Tillich and Henry Nelson Wieman” reflected his commitment to understanding God as a transformative force for justice.

It was during this period that King began to see the potential for faith to be a weapon against oppression, an idea he would later embody as he led marches, gave sermons, and organized communities.

Faith in Action

King’s role as a minister was not confined to the four walls of the church; it extended into the streets, courtrooms, and public squares. One of the earliest and most iconic examples of this was his leadership during the Montgomery Bus Boycott in 1955. As pastor of Dexter Avenue Baptist Church in Montgomery, Alabama, King used his position to galvanize the Black community after Rosa Parks' arrest for refusing to give up her bus seat to a white passenger. King’s sermons during this time emphasized the Christian principles of love and justice, urging peaceful resistance in the face of violence and hatred.

The boycott lasted 381 days, during which King faced constant threats to his life and home. Yet, his faith remained steadfast. In a pivotal moment, after receiving a particularly threatening phone call, King knelt in prayer and later described hearing God’s voice reassuring him: “Stand up for righteousness, stand up for truth; and God will be at your side forever.” This spiritual encounter strengthened his resolve to continue leading the movement, culminating in the June 5th 1956, Supreme Court ruling on Browder v. Gayle, that segregation on public buses was unconstitutional.

Another powerful example of King’s faith in action was his speech at the March on Washington in 1963. While the “I Have a Dream” speech is often celebrated for its rhetorical brilliance, it is equally a sermon steeped in biblical imagery. Phrases like “Let justice roll down like waters and righteousness like a mighty stream” are direct references to scripture (Amos 5:24), highlighting how King’s identity as a minister informed his call for equality.

The Role of the Church in the Movement

The church, particularly the African American church, was the bedrock of the Civil Rights Movement. Often referred to as the Black church, this term historically describes the religious institutions established by African Americans during slavery and segregation when they were excluded from predominantly white congregations. These churches became much more than places of worship; they were centers of community, education, and activism.

Dr. King’s own church, Ebenezer Baptist in Atlanta, exemplified this dual role as a spiritual and social hub. Churches like Ebenezer provided sanctuary, organization, and moral authority during the movement. Beyond Ebenezer, churches across the South served as safe spaces where individuals gathered to plan protests, marches, and boycotts, fostering a shared mission for justice and equality.

King leveraged this unique role of the church to mobilize communities. For instance, the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC), which King co-founded in 1957, was explicitly rooted in the traditions of the Black church. The SCLC organized major campaigns like the Birmingham Campaign in 1963, where church leaders coordinated sit-ins, boycotts, and marches. Even under threats of violence, the church served as the moral compass of the movement, embodying the strength and resilience that Dr. King’s leadership inspired.

The church also provided moral authority. In his sermon “The Drum Major Instinct,” delivered at Ebenezer shortly before his death, King cautioned against selfish ambition and encouraged listeners to seek greatness through service to others, a message deeply rooted in his faith in Christ.

Faith as the Source of Universality

Dr. King’s ability to resonate with diverse audiences stemmed from his deeply rooted Christian convictions. His belief in the imago Dei, or the idea that all humans are created in God’s image, underpinned his fight for equality. This theological principle drove his insistence that segregation was not just a social evil but a moral and spiritual sin.

While King’s rhetoric often referenced universal principles of justice and love, these were not abstract ideals. For example, his reference to Gandhi’s philosophy of nonviolence was not a departure from his faith but an extension of it. King saw Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount, particularly the teaching to “turn the other cheek,” as a direct call to nonviolent resistance. He articulated this connection in his book Stride Toward Freedom, where he wrote, “Christ furnished the spirit and motivation, while Gandhi furnished the method.”

This integration of faith and strategy allowed King to appeal to people of various religious and secular backgrounds without compromising the Christian foundation of his message. His leadership during events like the Selma to Montgomery marches in 1965 demonstrated this universal appeal, as participants included not only Christians but also Jews, Muslims, and atheists, all united by a shared commitment to justice.

Legacy and Lessons

Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s legacy is inextricably linked to his unwavering faith. His ministry served as the cornerstone of his life's work, providing the moral compass, resilience, and inspiration to lead one of the most transformative movements in American history. From the pulpit to the picket line, King demonstrated how faith could be a catalyst for profound social change.

In his final sermon, delivered on April 3, 1968, in Memphis, Tennessee, King proclaimed, "I just want to do God's will. And He's allowed me to go up to the mountain. And I've looked over. And I've seen the promised land." This declaration underscores that his actions were undertaken in God's name, guided by divine truth, and dedicated to His glory. King's enduring legacy serves as a testament to a life lived in devotion to God's will and the pursuit of justice through faith, one worthy of imitation and honor.

Today, King’s example challenges us to remember the spiritual roots of justice. In an era where his message is often secularized, it is vital to honor the theological convictions that drove his mission. King’s belief that justice was not only a social imperative but a divine mandate reminds us that true progress must be grounded in moral principles.

By honoring the complete legacy of Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., we reclaim the fullness of his life’s work: a ministry dedicated to love, justice, and the transformative power of faith.

Issue 5 - January, 2025

Editors Note

Welcome back Panthers! I hope you had an amazing holiday and happy new year! We're on the final stretch of the school year, so lets enjoy every moment we have! The Paw Print has some amazing articles and stories for you guys this month so we hope you enjoy!

-Jasmine Luxemburger

Welcome Back!

By Michelle Hayse

Welcome back Panthers! We hope you had a great winter break and we would love to hear the fun things you did. Now that we are back in school, we want to remind you to keep pushing yourself to get the best grades you possibly can. There are many resources to help you make sure you are finishing the 2024-25 school year strong. Don't forget to ask questions when you need help, take notes and do what is needed to help benefit you. We are so proud of you for trying as hard as you do everyday!

Journey To Success? More Like Journey To Failure

By: Jasmine Luxemburger

The JCPS Journey To Success, formerly known as the JCPS Backpack, is an online portfolio where students upload “artifacts” to show what they've learned over the course of their high school careers. All students must upload at least 7 artifacts with at least one to each of the different Success Skill categories. JCPS expects students to have completed a presentation and present to a board showcasing our learning. Each student has to complete a presentation in order to graduate high school. This has got to be the dumbest thing I’ve ever heard of. Forcing students to present in front of a board of people to graduate? JCPS you have got to be kidding me.

According to JCPS “The Journey to Success will feature student defenses of learning at key transition points where students will use artifacts to demonstrate how they have met five key indicators of success.” Forcing students to “showcase what they have learned” is a terrible idea. Students come to school to learn topics and not be forced to showcase that they have learned something, that's what their schoolwork is for. Is JCPS really that insecure about their teaching abilities? They have to have reassurance that their students are actually learning…? Embarrassing if you ask me.

According to The Greater Louisville Project, the graduation rate of JCPS is far behind all other Kentucky school districts. In my opinion this may be because JCPS is forcing students to present in front of people in which they may not be comfortable doing. Yes I understand that we are transitioning into adulthood and some may be going to college but forcing something upon a student is never the way to go about something. JCPS makes the Journey To Success a requirement to graduate, which may hold students back because they won't present. The idea of the Journey To Success is just idiotic and will never be a good idea.

New Year, No Fear

By: Gracie Carroll

Making New Year’s resolutions is a tradition of many people across the world. A New Year’s resolution is made after the new year. It’s set as a way to hold yourself accountable to keep a goal. Some people may find it challenging to hold a goal for such a long period of time. Here are some tips and tricks to help hold your resolution through the entire year.

Some people’s goals can be small, while others might have larger goals. It doesn’t matter what your goal is, as long as it’s something you want to work towards. It can be challenging if you make a goal that you have doubts you’ll be able to complete. You also shouldn’t make a goal that doesn’t affect you. It’s going to be hard to complete if your goal is to lose an unreasonable amount of weight or to go from being on the streets to being a millionaire.

An easy way to work towards goals is to set smaller goals throughout the year. Maybe a smaller goal will be to have lost 5 pounds by March. Setting smaller goals throughout the year can make it more motivating to finish. If you just have one big goal through the year, it can be hard to hold yourself to it. Breaking up your big goal into smaller ones can reduce the stress caused by it, and can help you keep it longer.

Having supportive people around you can help you towards keeping your goal. If the people around you don’t support your goal, it can be unmotivating and harder to keep the goal. Having friends, family, or even teachers supporting you can help you keep forward to completing your goal.

Happy New Year! Stay positive and focused, and try your best!

Take Care Of Your Head

By: Brooklyn Box

Brain rot has just been named Oxford University’s Word of the Year. But what exactly is “Brain rot?” Oxford Press wrote an article and stated, “Brain rot” is defined as “the supposed deterioration of a person’s mental or intellectual state, especially viewed as the result of overconsumption of material (now particularly online content) considered to be trivial or unchallenging.” (OUP). In other words, brain rot is when someone becomes so focused on media consumption that their mental health declines. While this term is becoming increasingly popular in recent years, this is a thing that's been around for decades. Henry David Thoreau wrote his book Walden, where he criticized society’s tendency to devalue complex ideas or those that can be interpreted in multiple ways. This tendency is believed to be the direct cause of brain rot. Social media apps like TikTok have created a habit of consistently taking in shorter forms of media. When you get used to watching multiple short-form videos for long periods of time, you can start to become avoidant of long-form videos.

Developing a tendency to watch short-form media can start to detach yourself from other kinds of content as well. According to The Scholarly Kitchen, “Just under half of Americans (48.5%) reported reading one or more books for pleasure during 2022.” (The Scholarly Kitchen). Statista, however, states “As of 2022, approximately 41 percent of users in the U.S. engaged with the popular social video app.” (Statista). These numbers together show Americans have turned to short-form media and choose to engage with it almost just as much as reading a book. So what can you as an individual do to avoid brain rot while you engage with this short-form content? You can engage with meaningful, thought-provoking content. Watch videos that make you think and force you to look into perspectives you usually wouldn’t look at. And finally, remember to take brain breaks in between scrolling sessions. The most defining part of brain rot is the deterioration of one’s mental state, so it's important to take care of yourself while scrolling. The word is gaining prevalence each day, and if you don’t want to become the next victim of brain rot, make sure you take care of your head.

Students Against Destructive Decisions (SADD)

By: Jasmine Luxemburger

SADD has officially begun here at PRP! For the ones who may not know, SADD is a club that students organized that supports making the right choices and creating mindsets that go against destructive decisions. This club is sponsored by Katie Thorton, Dave McCoy, and Mykel Crowe. The club also has a committee to help come up with ideas for field trips, volunteering, and fundraising. The committee includes Lilly Zagula and Khira Thorton as co-presidents, Kayleb Anderson as vice president, Aliyah Robinson as secretary, and Jasmine Luxemburger as the social media manager.

If you are interested in becoming a member of SADD you can talk to any of the sponsors of the club or anyone on the committee. There is no official date set for the next meeting so keep an eye out if you are interested! Make sure to follow the PRP SADD Instagram account (@prpsadd) Anyone is welcome to join and we hope to see you there!

You are NOT a Visual Learner

By: Anthony Judd

“I’m a visual learner,” “I need to move around to understand,” or “Hearing it works best for me.” We’ve all heard these statements, and they’re rooted in the popular VARK model—Visual, Auditory, Reading/Writing, and Kinesthetic learning styles. For years, people have clung to this theory, convinced that understanding their “style” is the key to unlocking their potential. But what if I told you that learning styles are more myth than fact? The science says otherwise: people aren’t locked into one way of learning. In reality, successful learning is far more dynamic and universal.

The idea of learning styles sounds intuitive. After all, it’s easier to explain poor performance by saying, “This wasn’t taught in my style,” than to address deeper issues. However, decades of research have shown no strong evidence supporting the idea that teaching in a preferred style improves learning outcomes. Studies repeatedly demonstrate that matching instruction to learning styles doesn’t help—and might even hurt—by creating a false sense of limitation.

Take the VARK model, for example. While it categorizes learners as visual, auditory, reading/writing, or kinesthetic, these labels oversimplify how our brains work. Learning isn’t about finding your style; it’s about engaging with the material using multiple strategies, like understanding concepts, practicing recall, and applying ideas in different contexts.

So, if VARK and learning styles don’t hold up, what does work? The answer is universal strategies that apply to everyone. Active engagement—like summarizing, asking questions, or practicing skills—makes information stick, regardless of how it’s delivered. Spacing out your study sessions over time, testing yourself, and connecting new information to existing knowledge are proven methods for improving learning outcomes.

Think of it this way: the brain isn’t a passive sponge that absorbs content in just one form. It’s more like a muscle—it strengthens through diverse, repeated practice. Sure, you might prefer certain methods, like watching a video or reading a book, but that doesn’t mean those methods are inherently better for you.

Believing in learning styles doesn’t just limit how we approach learning—it can actively harm our progress. When someone identifies as a "kinesthetic learner," they might avoid activities like reading or listening, missing out on valuable opportunities to stretch their abilities. Worse, educators might tailor lessons to these perceived preferences, narrowing the variety of ways students interact with content.

Instead of sticking to a single method, the best approach is to embrace learning as a flexible, multifaceted process. You don’t need to box yourself into being “visual” or “auditory.” You need to be open to engaging with material in ways that challenge and broaden your skills.

The myth of learning styles is comforting but ultimately restrictive. You’re not just a visual learner, or a kinesthetic learner, or anything else from the VARK model—you’re a learner, period. Embracing strategies that work for everyone—like active engagement, spaced practice, and self-testing—will help you grow far more than sticking to a single “style” ever could. So, next time you’re tempted to say, “This isn’t my way of learning,” challenge yourself instead. Learning isn’t about comfort—it’s about growth.

Legality Is Not A Guide For Morality

By Taylor Ford

James Madison once said, “If angels were to govern men, neither external nor internal controls on government would be necessary.” Men aren’t angels; men are just men. James Madison also bought more than a hundred slaves, but slavery was legal.

Slavery was legal. The Holocaust was legal. Is it just to throw the homeless into jail for being homeless just because a law says such? Do we succumb to bigoted lawmaking that hadn’t even considered the interests of the working class?

Since men aren’t angels, this is our reality. All too commonly, profits trump humanity. It’s our responsibility as citizens to keep aware of our country’s evolution.

Ignorance is what allows the selfish in power to act in their best interest. Lack of action keeps them comfortable with their abuse.

Knowledge is powerful, and now, with a president who’s apparently just getting rid of his countless felony charges, it’s more important than ever to know what’s going on. People in governing positions aren’t immune to misjudgment. The Safer Kentucky Act is just one example of an unfair law.

Despite its misleading title, it doesn’t make us safe. It’s an excuse to fine and throw the homeless in jail. Instead of preventative work, Kentucky’s legislature decided the best way to fight homelessness is to criminalize and stigmatize it.

These harsh laws do nothing but create more crime and longer sentences. This analogy itself creates a cycle of crime within family.

According to the ACLU, “The result of this is that children with incarcerated parents tend to find themselves in the court system as well, making incarceration a generational curse.” Lawmakers continue to target vulnerable minorities, and nothing is done because people don’t know about it!

“Studies have long shown increased penalties do not deter crime, but investing in people does.” We, as a community, have to fight issues at their core, and not add to our already overwhelming population of incarcerated.

It is our First Amendment right to rally and protest. Serious and impactful change isn’t so far away from us. One individual speaking out can affect an entire nation.

Food Waste in the Cafeteria

By Ms. Scott-Berger

Have you ever noticed how much food is thrown away in the cafeteria? Take a look at it sometime. It’s sad how much perfectly good food is thrown directly into the garbage cans.

The Problem

If a student just wants juice, then he is required to take all the food group components. This is because we are part of the federally funded meals, which allows us to offer food for free. As part of this program, it’s required that each student has a reimbursable meal which is made up of three full components of food groups. If you don’t have all these, then it isn’t reimbursable so that’s why you have to take all the lunch items when you go through the line, even if you only want part of them.

Once the student has taken his juice, then he usually throws the rest of the lunch away, even though it’s perfectly good. He never wanted it in the first place, but he’s required to take it to get the other part of the lunch.

What Can We Do?

Why can’t we set up a table marked “free food” where students can leave the unopened food that they don’t want to eat instead of throwing it in the trash? That way, it’s there for anyone who wants to take it.

What We Need

Part of the problem is that we need a student (or a group of students) to be in charge of this project. The cafeteria workers are not allowed to set up a table like this. Are you interested in helping combat food waste? Reach out to our principal, Ms. Sheri Duff, or our cafeteria manager, Ms. Liza Hilton, and ask them how you can help. Not only will you make a difference in people’s lives, but it will look great on your resume!

The Sharks Are Dying

By Lily Zerwekh

Commercial fishing is hurting all of us. While we are told that single-use plastic straws are killing our planet, plastic straws only account for about 0.03% of plastic in the ocean. Meanwhile, companies across the industry cover up the real issue.

Commercial fishing.

Forty-six percent of the Pacific garbage patch is fishing nets. There is enough long line set everyday to wrap around the planet 500x. Considering about half of the garbage in the ocean is fishing equipment, why wouldn't anyone want us to know? The thing is, the same companies profiting off of the fish, are the ones telling us plastic straws are the problem. Everyone is in it for the money, similar to the fast fashion industry. Employers are constantly looking for ways to cut down on costs and make the most money possible. This leads to criminal activity and a dangerous area of work.

Fishery observers are occasionally sent to these fishing boats to make sure regulations are followed. In Papua New Guinea, 18 fisheries observers went missing within less than five years. Because of the demand of seafood in the industry, the observers can be bribed or threatened so really, there is no point in sending observers out. These things aren't happening to some random, under-the-radar company, they're happening to our most well-known brands. The blue tic from the Marine Stewardship Council on fish packaging is supposed to mean the fish was caught sustainably. The reason this doesn't mean anything is because the boats going out and catching the fish are the same ones bribing the observers.

Spiritual Wisdom from The Four Agreements: A Practical Guide to Personal Freedom

By Alexandra Lopez Fagundo

The New Year is beginning, and many of us seek peace, love, and a greater sense of purpose in life. Often, on our spiritual journey, we can find wisdom in unexpected places. For instance, I found an old book in my childhood home that I never expected would bring me such a drastic change in my life, and understanding. The Four Agreements: A Practical Guide to Personal Freedom by Don Miguel Ruiz, offers profound lessons based on ancient Toltec wisdom, providing us with a unique perspective and understanding of the self to help us discover our true essence and spirit, creating a life in the total presence of love and plenitude. In this article I will explore the four agreements, hoping that it resonates with your heart and that you start the year with a sense of freedom and clarity.

Don Miguel begins by explaining how, as we grow, we absorb beliefs from our environment. Over time, these beliefs shape, directing minds and forming our reality and sense of self. He explains how our mind is almost configured, making us beings with fear and repressing our authentic self, which will only cause suffering. In a deep study of the ego and its victimization and cruelty, he shows us how many agreements the author proposes to break with all these ideas that do not align with our truth, they are a guide to begin to see life without the veil of fear that comes from the ego. These are the four agreements:

1- Be Impeccable with your word

He talks about the power of the word and how they have the power to create or destroy. Our reality can be changed with just this principle if we realize the influence it has on our lives.

For example: Start the year being aware of your words, always speaking from love and not from fear, be careful how you speak to others and above all how you speak to yourself. Your word has to be impeccable without letting fear or negativity stain them and therefore dirty your reality.

2-Do not take anything personally

Recognize that what the other person says and does is a reflection of their inner self.

We are told how to free yourself from opinions and actions is to free yourself from an extraordinary burden of wanting to live based on the expectations of others and not living in alignment with your true self, which turns out to be exhausting. Furthermore, if we grow much more spiritually, we understand that we are more than an ego and that we have a much more divine essence and are connected to the whole.

Example: This year, reflect on how to accept that the actions of others reflect their own struggles, not your personal worth.

3-Do not make assumptions

Assumptions only serve to feed the fear of the ego, therefore guilt and suffering, all of this happening in the imagination. There is a healthier and more wholesome way to alleviate doubt, which is communication, honesty, and discipline of the mind.

Remember that each person lives their reality from their interpretations, and if we live in empathy, we understand that all we need to do is communicate with honesty.

Example: Ask questions before assuming and don't let your mind create catastrophic scenarios, on the contrary, organize your ideas and don't fall into ignorant worries, which don't help at all and only make you suffer. If a problem has a solution, don't worry, and if it doesn't have a solution, don't worry.

4-Always Do Your Best

Give your best every day, without judging yourself and respecting your limits. This helps you to be constant in your growth and live without regrets.

Example: Give your best every day of the year, you will grow at every moment and you will not regret anything, since you will do everything as best as you can and there will be no other way it could have happened. Remember to be gentle with yourself, recognizing your power and potential.

The book dives deeper into sacred Toltec wisdom, exploring how the mind works, and operates in a false reality where our perception of ourselves is corrupt. We have to break away from all these learned and totally false agreements implemented by the ego, to reach our true self and live life from a place of presence and divinity. The author also shares wisdom connected to the divine and “God”.

I invite you to read this book for yourself. I hope it helps you start the new year with peace and love.

Happy New Year!

People's Frustration With The Healthcare System In The United States

By: Anonymous

“Beyond Health Care: What America Really Needs to Fix”

It's been two weeks since United Healthcare CEO Brian Thompson was tragically murdered, in a stark reminder of growing frustrations with the US healthcare system.

The frustration expressed against the American health system is not new. Many people believe that the system is more set up to generate profits than to provide high-quality care.

These criticisms are unfounded given that medical costs are among the highest in the world and that health outcomes are lower than in other developed nations.

The United States spends 17% of its GDP on medical care, whereas the average life expectancy is 77.5 years, which is much lower than other high-income countries that spend less on health care and achieve better results.

Reforming the health system is not the only way to address the issue of low life expectancy in the United States. According to experts, the health system only contributes 10% to 20% of health outcomes; the remaining amount is determined by social and behavioral factors such as access to wholesome foods, public safety, and economic stability.

Dr. Steven Woolf, a public health expert, states: "We cannot improve health outcomes without addressing more extensive social problems." Poverty, inequality, and lack of access to basic services are as detrimental as any illness.

An integrated approach is required, combining strategies to address underlying societal issues with improvements in the health system.

Example: to reform the laws governing gun control in order to lessen violence, improving access to nutritious foods, investing in education to support marginalized communities, giving mental health and preventative resources priority, etc.

The United States has the potential to improve public health, but only if it acknowledges that the issue is multifaceted and calls for solutions beyond hospitals and insurers.

Let us commit to building a society that prioritizes not only health care, but also the underlying factors that determine public health. Change begins with recognizing the big picture.

Seasonal Mental Health Awareness

By: Michelle Hayse

As we enter the winter season, many people's mental health starts to fall. This is known as "the winter blues." As the weather changes, moods change too. It can affect how people think, behave, and feel. At PRP Paw Print, we wanted to let you know that your voices can and should be heard. If you feel as if your mental health is slipping, please do not be afraid to reach out. There are many resources such as: the mental health hotline (988), the suicide hotline (988), family, friends or school counselors. We care deeply about you and your mental health. If you do not feel safe at any time you should call the provided resources or the police. You make the world a brighter and better place, we want to help you. Please ensure you are taking care of yourself and not struggling alone.

Issue 4 - December, 2024

Editor's Note

Its officially December which means time to get into the holiday spirt! It's starting to get cold outside so make sure to keep warm and bundle up! This issue has some good articles that will keep you on the edge of your seat! We also added a new column to The Paw Print, make sure to check out The Leftist Liar!

-Jasmine Luxemburger

Terrifying Turnout: Football Game Turns Into Nightmare

Jasmine Luxemburger

Note: The following article involves topics that may be difficult to engage with this content.

September 29, 2024, the day Pleasure Ridge Park High School changed completely. During a Sunday night football game shots were fired on the campus. Shots had been fired in the front of the school during the end of the fourth quarter. The game was against Louisville Male High School, no PRP or Male students were involved in the incident. The game had been going as planned; it was just a normal high school football game. There had been an earlier incident in which there was an excessive amount of spectators attempting to sneak into the game without going through the weapons detection (PRP had implemented weapons detection before entering each football game prior to the incident).

Prior to the shooting, a spectator had caught someone attempting to throw guns over the fence to avoid being caught in the weapons detection. The person was caught and detained and turned in to the authorities. The suspect was not a PRP or Male High School student and the issue has been resolved.

During the fourth quarter of the game, shots were heard towards the front of the school. It was suspected that up to rounds of shots had been fired, but that had not been confirmed. Two individuals were struck by the shots. One victim was released from the hospital a few days after the incident and seemed to be okay, while the other individual was pronounced dead on October 1. The student who was pronounced dead, Aaron Esters, Jr, was a 17-year-old student at Valley High School.

Moments before the incident, Chris Finch, a football player at PRP had gone down on the field with a serious injury and was in need of medical attention. Before the EMS arrived it had been suspected that he was suffering a C-Spine. Finch received immediate medical attention and was deemed to be okay. He was released from the hospital the following day.

The Paw Print interviewed students who experienced the incident. The Paw Print interviewed; Jaishaun Earsery (PRP Football Team Member) and Khira Thorton (PRP Dance Team Member).

Jaishaun Earsery, PRP Football Team Member:

What was your thought process as you heard shots were being fired?

“My thought process at the time was to really grasp what was happening I thought they was fireworks until I actually saw people running towards the field so I was kinda worried about the people”

What did you do when the situation unfolded?

“When the situation unfolded I looked for my friends and family that was there and looked to find them while also worrying about my teammate who was fighting a crucial injury on the field but once I seen all my friends and family was safe I went to check on my teammate.”

How did this event affect the next home game for you?

“The event of that had some people shook to come to our next game which made Meade County wanna play at 6 instead of having a game that started at 7:30 but our coach talked about how we living in rough times where you don’t always know what’s gonna happen and it shouldn’t be that way but along as we got each other we will be okay.”

Khira Thorton, PRP Dance Team Member:

What was your thought process as you heard shots were being fired?

“I remember being down on a knee because of the injured player, and looking over to see my teammate's face in pure shock and fear, and just both of us realizing what was happening at the same time. I’ll always remember that feeling and just that pit in your stomach feel of the whole situation”

What did you do when the situation unfolded?

“After we all realized it wasn’t a false alarm I grabbed my teammates' hands and bag and ran just as far and fast as I could. Being a dancer, I am on the sidelines separated from my family, and the fear of not knowing if they made it out or not was awful.”

How did this event affect the next home game for you?

“Walking into that next game felt surreal. Knowing I had to cheer on the team while being a senior and leading my dance team and being a strong influence for them was very tough. Knowing that they needed someone to be strong and a lot of our girls didn’t want to be there, but we knew it was important to show the community that PRP is better, and will preserve.”

The Paw Print would like to allow everyone who was involved in the incident to know that it is okay to still feel affected. No matter how much time has passed it is okay to not be okay. We have amazing counselors at PRP who would love to help at any time. If you are in need of help, let an adult know and they will lead you in the right direction. Your mental health matters.

How Can I Help My Community? Or A Holiday Hand Or Helping Hand For The Holidays

By Taylor Ford

December is the month of giving. Holidays like Christmas and Kwanzaa are celebrated annually across the U.S. The day before we’re let out of school for Winter Break is filled with gift bags and hugs, but gift-giving isn’t exclusive to family and friends! There are plenty of people in Louisville who aren’t able to get themselves something nice for the holidays. Lucky for us, members of the community have made it super easy for us to help out!

It’s for everyone: a clothes closet!

A clothes closet is an awesome opportunity for those needing some warm clothes for the winter. Exodus Family Ministries, for example, conducts this charity on the second and fourth Saturday of every month. It’s up from 11 A.M. to 1 PM at Bethany Lane. To receive clothes, all you need is an ID. They serve anyone from the following zip codes: 40272, 40118, 40258, 40216, 40215, 40214, 40211, 40210, and 40208. At 6501 Bethany Lane, people are free to drop off their gently-used donations of clothes, shoes, blankets, and hygienic products any day. Other places for donated clothes include: the Episcopal Church, Hope’s Closet of Kentucky, Clothing Assistance Program, and Dress For Success Louisville.

Food Pantries!

The work the Exodus Family Ministries does is remarkable, but they offer more than warm clothes. Every first and third Saturday, 11 A.M. to 1 P.M., they open their food pantry. Donations work the same as they do for the clothes closet; you’ll find the donation box right outside of the building. Other local food pantries include: Blessings at Bethany, Little Free Pantry, Pantry at First Baptist Church, Valley View Church, and The Shepherd’s Pantry at Preston Crossing.

A great number of the food pantries in the Kentucky/Indiana area are in association with Dare to Care. It’s a food bank that provides millions of meals to Kentuckiana residents every year. Community leaders came together after nine-year-old Bobby Ellis died of malnutrition in 1969.

Organizations like these are really refreshing to me because they’re living reminders of the power each individual has. It took the initiative of a few in the basement of the former St. John’s Catholic Church to feed thousands of people. Their spirit created countless programs and food pantries throughout the state. It’s even crazier to think of the people struggling to obtain such a simple necessity that should be completely accessible to every human being. It’s easy to forget how privileged you really are when human rights become a privilege. The best thing you and I can do is better our own community. Identify the problems you see each day and work to do something about it. People have more ability than they tend to believe. Anyways, happy holidays!

A Year Of Music

By: Lily Zerwekh

With many new local bands and artists getting their start this year, we celebrate both the new and the old. Many incredible music events took place this past year, providing a safe space for many youths and others. The local scene has grown nonstop, becoming an incredible attraction in our city. With so much growing popularity, the road has been paved for new artists.

At the beginning of the year, we saw some smaller shows with bands including Anemic Royalty, Thee Tabs, Deep Above, and more. As the weather got warmer, bigger shows began. Playing 4 Palestine was a very notable show. With artists from Fuzzy Worms to Thee Tabs, the event brought in profit for the organization UNICEF. Throughout the summer, more events were hosted at venues including Cave Valley Cava, Magbar, Whirling Tiger, and more. Getting closer to Halloween, Ramenfest had its second annual appearance. Over the span of two days, local musicians performed, local artists sold their work, and local restaurants were able to provide food. Also in October, the festival, No Comply made its fourth annual appearance. Hosted at Dave Armstrong’s Extreme Park, the event started with a skate competition and ended with incredible performances from many local bands.

Many young artists got their start this year, ARPGEO! (also goes by Sosa) and News From Home being just two of them. Sosa, a PRP student, began recording RnB/hip-hop music in April of this year. After wanting to create music for the past few years, he finally took the jump. He encourages others to not let hate drive you from your passion. "Don't listen to those who like your music because they like you, listen to those who want your music to be better," Sosa shared. Find his music on any platform, just search for ARPGEO!

News From Home is a post-hardcore band created by PRP student, Harper Gillespie, and three of his friends (Hayden, Jude, and Rider). "We decided to start a band because we all just really love playing music and we can be really expressive," said Gillespie. Gillespie is in another band called Fuzzy Worms. Although they did not create Fuzzy Worms this year, it allowed Gillespie to have a good idea of how to approach News From Home. In the past year, both bands have played many local shows, bringing back post-hardcore to the scene. See both News From Home and Fuzzy Worms at the upcoming Sweaterfest at Headliners Music Hall on December 14th. You can also listen to News From Home on all platforms hopefully by summer.

A Celebration Full Of Color, Culture, & Memory

By: Gabriela Cobas Grave de Peralta

The Day of the Dead, a celebration full of color, culture, and memory, is commemorated every year on November 1 and 2. This tradition, of prehispanic origin in Mexico, is carried out to honor and remember loved ones who have passed away. During these days, families create altars and offerings that include cempasúchil flowers, candles, photographs, and the favorite foods of their deceased. Although death is usually a sad topic, the Day of the Dead addresses it in a festive and comforting way, showing the love that remains and transcending the pain of loss.

On November 2, on the renowned Fourth Street, a special celebration was held in which several schools participated such as Seneca High School, Doss High School, Louisville University and organizations such as Luce KY dedicated to promoting Latin culture, among others. Also, our school was represented by several members of the PRP Hispanic community, including sponsors Ms. Saller, Mr. Torres, and Mr. Angone. Each group prepared detailed and carefully decorated altars, dedicated to the memory of those who are no longer with us. The altars were a show of respect and love, but also a way to represent the cultural richness of Mexico.

The evening was full of activities for everyone. Traditional food stalls from various countries were set up, which were enjoyed by visitors. Personalized caricatures were also given away, a fun experience that left a smile on many faces. In addition, on a large stage, local artists offered performances of traditional music and dance, including typical songs and dances that filled the atmosphere with life and emotion.

At the end of the evening, awards were given to the best altars. Three places were recognized, highlighting those altars that captured not only the visual beauty but also the respect and spirit of the Day of the Dead. This event, besides being a friendly competition, was an opportunity for the community to come together, celebrate, and learn more about Mexican culture. It was a memorable night that will remind everyone of the importance of honoring and celebrating our loved ones in a special and meaningful way.

Discovering Louisville’s flavors

By: Alexa Lopez

Louisville is a city filled with beauty and magnificent places, places we often overlook. I set out to explore and discover some of the most elegant and luxurious dining spots for special occasions. Here’s a guide to the fines restaurants in our city, where we create unforgettable moments

1- Jeff Ruby's Steakhouse

About: Louisville loves its legends and Jeff Ruby's Steakhouse has quickly become one. Modeled after the successful Cincinnati restaurant, this steakhouse pays homage to its adopted hometown featuring both Kentucky-inspired menu items and unique interior decorative appointments. Recently recognized as Louisville's Best Upscale Steakhouse by the readers of Louisville Magazine, Ruby's offers an array of award-winning U.S.D.A. Prime steaks, an incredible selection of fresh seafood and tantalizing raw bar and sushi selections. Live entertainment on an elevated bar and a high-energy atmosphere add to the vibrant backdrop that is the Jeff Ruby Experience.

Cousine: Steakhouse, Seafood, Sushi

Meals: Dinner, Drinks

Features: Reservations, Private Dining, Seating, Parking Available, Valet Parking, Television, Wheelchair Accessible, Serves Alcohol, Full Bar, Wine and Beer, Free Wifi, Accepts Credit Cards, Table Service, Live Music, Gift Cards Available

Location: 325 W Main St Waterfront Plaza, Louisville, KY 40202-4254

2- La Bodeguita de Mima

About: Hailing From Cuba, Fernando and Yaniel Martinez have brought their passion and love to the plate, showcasing generations of love passed on by their mothers. From plantains to the classic Cuban sandwich, they have all of the classic Cuban specialties covered with our twist, of course! Come visit us to see what Louisville has been missing.At Mima's, they believe in creating an inviting and invigorating atmosphere. That's why you can find different choices to choose from. Whether you're enjoying a delicious dinner in their dining room, a tasty Mojito at our bar, or even a fine hand-rolled cigar on their patio, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

Cuisine: Latin, Cuban

Meals: Lunch, Dinner, Drinks

Features: Takeout, Reservations, Outdoor Seating, Seating, Validated Parking, Free off-street parking, Highchairs Available, Wheelchair Accessible, Serves Alcohol, Full Bar, Free Wifi, Accepts Credit Cards, Table Service, Live Music, Gift Cards Available

Location: 725 E Market St, Louisville, KY 40202-1007

3-Grassa Gramma

About: Grassa Gramma's menus exist as devotion and not revisionism. Born of authenticity and driven by ingenuity, they reflect both northern and southern Italian heritages; thoughtful of local traditions and regional nuances.

Under the direction of decorated chef Ragen Daly, Grassa Gramma's cuisine is composed of the best ingredients that can be sourced. If it's fish, it's wild. If it's game or meat, it's organic or prime. Produce comes from actual farmers; not simply farms. It is local, when possible, and always selected for seasonal optimization.

Grassa Gramma's chefs proudly go beyond their kitchens to participate in the guest experience. They arrive early and they stay late to honor their commitment to delivering the most authentic Italian dishes in our region.

Cuisine: Italian

Meals: Diner Every Day/ Sunday Brunch Buffet

Location: 2210 Holiday Manor Center, Louisville KY 40222

4-Proof on Main

About: The ingredients in their menus reflect the region’s sustainable farmers and producers with a soulful and honest approach showcasing the bounty of the Ohio River Valley. Housed in five historic buildings in downtown Louisville, Proof on Main is part of 21c Museum Hotels, the award-winning boutique hotel and restaurant group. The dining room is one of the most striking public spaces in the city, with rotating, contemporary art exhibitions by local and internationally-acclaimed artists alike.

Cuisine: American, Contemporary

Meals: Dinner, Brunch, Drinks

Features: Reservations, Private Dining, Seating, Valet Parking, Wheelchair Accessible, Serves Alcohol, Full Bar, Free Wifi, Accepts Credit Cards, Table Service

Location: 21c Museum Hotel Louisville

Address: 702 W Main St, Louisville, KY 40202

5-LE MOO

About: Le Moo was born in 2015 with restaurateur Kevin Grangier at the helm. He believes that top-quality steak shouldn’t only be available at white-tablecloth establishments and that you should get the same 5-star service in casual clothes that you would in a three-piece suit.

Fine dining in Louisville, KY without the pressure is the goal for every Le Moo dining experience – for dinner and for brunch.

Cuisines: Steakhouse, Seafood, Contemporary

Meals: Lunch, Dinner, Brunch

Features: Takeout, Reservations, Outdoor Seating, Private Dining, Seating, Parking Available, Highchairs Available, Wheelchair Accessible, Serves Alcohol, Full Bar, Accepts Credit Cards, Table Service

Location: 2300 Lexington Rd, Louisville, KY 40206

Please, Just Call Me “Bro.”

By: Brooklyn Box

The N-word and its usage is a highly controversial topic. This word is commonly known for its long history of discrimination, violence, and tension between African Americans and other ethnic groups in America. In recent years, the word gained popularity amongst African Americans as it was reclaimed, and started to become used as a term of endearment between fellow Black people in America. This has caused the word to become popular in unconventional spaces such as Pleasure Ridge Park High School. I interviewed a few groups of Black students across multiple lunches to try and see why this is the case. The most common answer was that the N-word is something of a right for Black people to say. Some students even went as far as to say teachers, (especially those of white descent), shouldn’t be allowed to tell a Black student they can’t say this word.

In schools, the use of the N-word disrupts the student body and encourages a hostile learning environment. Because of this and the nature in which the word has originated, PRP’s student handbook bans the word from being used on campus. This ban is possible due to the Profanity/Vulgarity section of the 2024-2025 Student Support and Behavior Intervention Handbook which specifies the prohibition of, “Swearing, cursing, or making obscene gestures specifically targeting school students or personnel,” and “Making racial slurs or using hate speech specifically targeting school students or personnel.” (JCPS). Though the N-word falls under these categories, Black students continue to use the word without much consequence.

To understand why, I interviewed Jason Stinson, the Business Academy’s Assistant Principal. While Mr. Stinson agrees that a hateful word like the N-word does not belong in an environment such as school, he explained that with the number of students we have at PRP who frequently use the N-word, it would be almost impossible to discipline every student and still be able to focus on other issues. Stinson said, “If every kid who said that word was written up and sent to my office we’d have a line going out the door that would never end.” Instead of disciplining students, Mr. Stinson makes it his mission to encourage students to choose kinder words. “When I was in high school we used words like, ‘Dog’ to address our friends, you never really heard the N-word being used in my day.” (Stinson). While this is a solid response as to what students could say instead of the N-word, these words came from a white man, which seemed to be part of the reason why students weren’t taking kindly to this rule. So, to get an answer I thought would resonate better, I went looking for opinions from African American adults at PRP.

William Black and Latisha Sutton, two Black staff members at PRP, had valuable insight in response to the student body’s belief regarding their right to use the N-word. They talked about how school is a place to prepare you for the real world, and in a workplace environment, the use of the N-word can result in loss of pay, racial sensitivity training, as well as loss of your job completely. “In a professional environment you have to know how to pick your words wisely. The way you would speak to your family at the kitchen table isn’t the way you would speak to a coworker on the job.” (Sutton). Essentially, the problem isn’t who's saying the word, teachers have a problem with the word being said at all. If teachers were able to communicate these things to students who were willing to listen, there's a possibility that the N-word wouldn’t be used as frequently in school.

In short, the use of the N-word in schools can have a negative impact on students. The use of said word contributes to a culture of racial intolerance and discrimination and leads to unnecessary tensions in classrooms. With the help of quality role models, such as teachers and other staff, PRP students can be encouraged to choose kindness and use words that reflect such a decision. By using classrooms as a place to hold open discussions about the negative effects of using hate speech and diminishing language, PRP can work towards creating a more inclusive and respectful environment for all students. So the next time you hear someone using the N-word at school, consider saying “Please, Just call me ‘Bro’.”

How to Be an Informed and Active Citizen: A Guide to Strengthening Democracy

By: Anthony Judd

Introduction

A healthy democracy depends upon active, informed, and responsible citizens. Civic responsibility goes far beyond voting; it includes keeping ourselves informed, participating in our communities, and holding our leaders accountable. As Benjamin Franklin famously remarked at the close of the Constitutional Convention of 1787, when asked about the government’s future, “A Republic, Madam, if you can keep it.” Franklin's words underline the fact that preserving democracy requires vigilance, diligence, and collective effort. This guide outlines the steps to be a more responsible citizen—from fact-checking information to staying involved in community affairs.

Fact-Checking Information

The rapid spread of misinformation through social media and digital platforms makes it difficult to discern truth from falsehood. Misinformation shapes political opinions, distorts public knowledge, and erodes trust. It is every citizen’s responsibility to verify the authenticity of the information they consume, particularly before sharing it. As Paula Walker observes, “By the time the government is aware of a community problem, it has grown exponentially, and the only course of action is legislature. If citizens engage at the start, it can often be contained.” Fact-checking is crucial in creating an informed citizenry, where truth is prioritized, empowering citizens to make informed decisions.

Steps for Fact-Checking Information

Use Reliable Fact-Checking Sources: Websites like Snopes, FactCheck.org, and PolitiFact help verify claims with evidence-based analysis.

Identify Warning Signs: Sensational headlines, anonymous sources, or emotionally charged language are often signs of misinformation. Legitimate articles rely on concrete evidence and identified sources.

Compare Multiple Sources: Read the same story from various reputable outlets to detect bias, clarify discrepancies, and gain diverse perspectives.

Fact-checking not only curbs the spread of misinformation but also cultivates an informed society. However, as Walker reminds us, “Reacting to a situation is often extreme, whereas recognizing potential issues and putting plans in place can alleviate unnecessary burdens and restrictions.”

Recognizing Bias and Breaking Out of Echo Chambers

Media fragmentation often creates echo chambers—insulated spaces where individuals are exposed only to ideas that reinforce their beliefs. While challenging, breaking free from these echo chambers is essential for a balanced understanding of current issues. As Andrew Chonko emphasizes, “If a source sounds like it’s trying to sell you something, doesn’t present both sides, or provokes outrage, there’s likely more to the story.”

Steps to Recognize Bias and Break Out of Echo Chambers

Check Media Bias: Resources like Media Bias/Fact Check and AllSides provide insights into the slant of news outlets.
Engage with Diverse Perspectives: Seek out multiple sources to gain multidimensional views of an issue.
Avoid Echo Chambers: Actively seek opposing views, even if they challenge your beliefs. This fosters critical thinking and a more informed opinion.
Chonko further points out that Americans need better digital literacy to identify biased reporting, urging citizens to engage in fact-checking and demand accurate, unbiased news to improve democratic processes.

Civic Engagement Beyond Voting

Good citizenship encompasses more than voting; it requires active participation in shaping communities and policies. Paula Walker aptly notes that proactive civic engagement prevents issues from escalating to the point where drastic legislative action becomes necessary.

Steps for Civic Engagement Beyond Voting

Attend Local Meetings: Public forums such as city council and school board meetings allow citizens to stay informed and voice concerns.
Reach Out to Representatives: Communicate with elected officials to share opinions and influence their actions.
Participate in Community Initiatives: Volunteer for local causes or civic groups to strengthen community ties and address shared challenges.
As history shows, grassroots movements with both long-term and attainable short-term goals can drive meaningful change.

Registration and Voting

Voting is one of the most direct ways citizens can influence government. However, informed voting requires preparation.

Steps for Registration and Voting:

Register to Vote: Use resources like Vote.org to check your registration status and meet state deadlines.
Understand Voting Alternatives: Explore early voting and mail-in ballots to accommodate demanding schedules.
Research Candidates and Initiatives: Websites like Ballotpedia provide unbiased information on candidates and policies, enabling voters to make informed decisions.
Walker highlights that engaging early allows citizens to shape policies and ensure that elected leaders represent their communities effectively.

Orwell’s 1984 and the Role of Passive Citizenship

George Orwell’s 1984 serves as a stark warning against passivity in citizenship. Orwell illustrates how a disengaged populace enables authoritarian regimes to manipulate truth, suppress dissent, and erode freedoms. History demonstrates that complacency can lead to similar outcomes in real-world democracies. Active civic participation ensures accountability and prevents the concentration of power. As Chonko reminds us, transparency and accountability are the cornerstones of a healthy relationship between citizens and their government

Conclusion: Building a Stronger Democracy

Democracy thrives when citizens are informed, engaged, and proactive. From fact-checking to civic participation, small, consistent actions by many can lead to transformative change. As Franklin and Walker emphasize, preserving democracy requires vigilance and collective responsibility. Today, take the first step: fact-check a news story, attend a local meeting, or register to vote. Together, these efforts will foster a healthier democracy for all.

Issue 3 - November, 2024

Editor's Note

Happy November Panthers! Were offically deep into fall!! I know November is meant as the month of Thanksgiving ut were just one more month til Christmas! This month we have some good articles for you! Make sure to put on your coats everyone, it's getting cold out there!

-Jasmine Luxemburger

Thankful4You

By: Michelle Hayse

Thanksgiving is right around the corner; it is time to think of what you are thankful for. Here at PRP's Paw Print, we are very thankful for our readers. We greatly appreciate the time you take to read our newspaper and become involved with our school. We are beyond excited to have a year of stories for you guys to read. If you have any segments you would like to add, please send them to our editor, Jasmine Luxemburger, or stop by Mrs. Scott-Berger's room (240). You can email them both at Jasmine.Luxemburger@stu.jefferson.kyschools.us and Judith.Scott-Berger@jefferson.kyschools.us! With much love and appreciation, we wish you the best Thanksgiving break!

Courier-Journal: Inside News

By: Hunter Quire

On the 8th of October, The Paw Print and WPRP went to The Courier-Journal to learn about the ins and outs of the literary newspaper world. We started by talking to some journalists who worked there and the Chief Editor, Veda Morgan. The trip was exciting, and it was an amazing opportunity to hear the stories and ask questions to actual journalists who were professionals in the field. It was even more fun when we split into groups and got the chance to put together our little news article. The goal was to organize the stories from most important to least important; it was a great way to make you think and also a good learning experience on what was and wasn't considered “good news.” Overall, the experience was amazing, and it was a great opportunity to be able to go and meet these people and learn about more options.

Black Student Union: PRPs Community

By Taylor Ford

The president described them as a “voice of the student body.” I would describe the Black Student Union as a community. The first interaction I had with the club was during my freshman year. I had some time before my band performance, and my friend offered me company at the BSU winter social. I was definitely nervous. It was a group of people I had never met in a building I had never stepped in before.

Despite my anxiety, I was welcomed with smiles and waves. It felt like a family gathering, and it was just the first part of my involvement with the BSU. As I gradually became a member, I learned the value of the Black Student Union. They advocate for the students who can’t. They’ve become the voice that we all need to have.

Silas Mcleod is the BSU’s president for the 2024-2025 school year. He, along with the other members of the Executive Board, has already planned a number of events for their members. Every year we have a Crown and Comfort drive to collect donations of hygiene products specifically for black and brown students. There’s an upcoming food drive with the Hope Bus. and since October just passed, I’ll mention that we’ve collected the most candy in the past couple of years. That’s a lot of information, but it really is a lot of fun.

There are so many opportunities and memories for a member of the Black Student Union. The BSU meets on the first and third Thursday of every month. You’ll find them in T112A at 3:30. Come with a friend, and maybe you’ll stay for the year!

New Hispanic Union at PRP

By: Gabriela Cobas Grave de Peralta

We are pleased to announce the creation of the Hispanic Union at PRP, a space dedicated to our community to celebrate our culture and move forward together toward success. We seek to build a space for our community where we can speak our language, sing our songs, and dance to the rhythm of our music. We want to make our presence felt, overcome obstacles and achieve our goals. Our main objective is to work to strengthen and organize our community with the purpose of advocating for our needs, and promoting academic excellence, cultural awareness, and respect.

Calendario de Reuniones:

23 de octubre

6 de noviembre

20 de noviembre

4 de diciembre

18 de diciembre

15 de enero

29 de enero

12 de febrero

26 de febrero

2 de marzo

26 de marzo

16 de abril

30 de abril

14 de mayo

We invite all students to join and actively participate in this space for growth and cultural celebration. We look forward to seeing you there. Together we are stronger!

Cell Phones

By: Lily Zerwekh

After asking PRP students what they think we should do about cell phones in the classroom, we received 46 responses. The cell phones have not only become distracting, but have become a serious problem. Students are distracted and teachers don't know what to do about it. Either way, not everyone will be happy with the decision made but it has to be done.

In some cases, schools have put a ban on cell phones. Other cases let the teachers decide what to do, and others try to enforce rules against the phones but have been unsuccessful.

In Fern Creek High School, they have taken a more direct approach, banning phones entirely (with the exception of at lunch). According to the Courier Journal, "a full day ban, with a small exception during lunch time if students need to check messages from parents or employers." (Courier Journal).

For some schools, including PRP, the student handbook states that no cell phones or electronic devices should be used. While this has obviously changed with the use of chromebooks in the classroom, the use of cell phones is a different story. The handbook says cell phones should not be used during class time, however this rule is not enforced. Because of this, many teachers are at a loss as to how to manage a classroom when students won't put their phones down.

The solutions offered by students included: students giving up their phones while doing work, giving up phones for extra credit, not taking away students phones but instead using phone pockets, and having a stricter phone policy. Many students said similar things, give us your vote, how should we combat this issue?

Getting to Know Our Teachers, Histories Beyond the Classroom

By Alexa Lopez

Teachers are not just transmitters of academic knowledge, but they are also people with histories, experiences, and life lessons that have shaped their journey. With this article, I set out to discover a more personal side of those who guide us every day in the classroom. Through these interviews we were able to get a glimpse into the experiences that teachers have to share and that I invite you to listen to.

Interview with Mr. Eric Thompson, Health Science Teacher:

“I grew up in Africa, Malawi specifically, but for the sake of this story, you need to know that I lived in an area where the typical African wildlife was prevalent. Once when I was younger I stayed at a safari camp with some friends of mine. We slept in simple cabin-like tents that had beds, but the bathrooms were in a separate building. This camp also happened to be located fairly close to a large river. During our first night, I woke up around midnight after drinking way too much chai and went to answer nature's call.

On the way to the bathroom, I noticed several large, fresh smears of mud on the stone path that linked the campground to the bathrooms. Thinking nothing of it I went about my business. A bit further along I noticed clumps of dried grass stuck to the sides of the walls of the bathroom building and on the trunks of surrounding trees. After I took care of business and made my way back towards my tent I noticed two more things that saved my life.

First, the wind blowing towards me smelled strongly of the river, mud, and wet grass. The second thing I noticed almost too late. When I rounded a bend in the path a massive bull hippo stood about five paces happily grazing on grass by the side of the path. I grew up in Africa so I knew a few things. Hippos kill more people in Africa than any other game animal, in short bursts they run almost as fast as galloping horses, weigh about 5,000 pounds, and have teeth longer than my forearm. I stopped, backed away very slowly, and spent the rest of the night sleeping in a shower stall. Now, had I paid attention to the signs on the path I was on I could have saved myself a very uncomfortable night and one (of many) close brushes with death in my life.

The mud on the path meant that a large animal had come up from the river and left it behind on the stone. I should have turned around and gone back to my cabin as soon as I saw it. The grass on the walls and trees meant that a hippo had recently walked by and flung its poop as it did so. I should have gone back to the cabin when I saw that. When I smelled the hippo on the wind I should have immediately gone back. Had the wind shifted the other way, taking my smell to the hippo, he probably would have killed me for interrupting his dinner. All this taught me two things: don't drink so much before bed, and when you are going through life and you notice that there is something wrong with that path you are on, don't keep following it, turn around, and go another way.”

Interview with Ms. Marcela Lungu, Physics Professor:

“In 2005 I was living in Romania and I took a challenge to get involved in exchange teaching experience in Europe. This program sponsored teachers who applied and got selected to travel to different countries and exchange experience, style, and missions with other teachers. It was an amazing opportunity that allowed me to travel, interact, and make new friendships with other teachers from all over Europe.

In May 2007 in Barcelona, I met a former Romanian colleague who was traveling to the US while I was returning to Romania. She told me about the exchange program to the US. Long story short I applied, I got selected and in July 2007 I moved to the US. A journey that was supposed to be only three years turned out to be seventeen years! Many decisions and maybe some greatness make me the great, awesome, wonderful person I am today. (Just kidding…. Or maybe not).”

Stories like Mr. Thompson’s and Ms. Lungu’s remind us that our teachers are also human beings who have gone through moments that have shaped them and from which we can obtain if we listen carefully and attentively, valuable lessons or just a good time. They are not only math or health teachers, but they also teach us values such as courage and perseverance. Knowing their human side allows us to appreciate and admire them beyond the classroom.

Special Thanks:

I sincerely thank the teachers who shared a glimpse of their personal history, their involvement in the school community is appreciated. We admire you and appreciate you.

Fun Facts From The Paw Print!

1750

How many students we currently have at PRP High School

1958

The year PRP High School was opened

How many different languages students at PRP speak

Issue 2 - October, 2024

The Paw Print staff unfortunately forgot to archive the October 2024 Issue! Sorry for the inconvenience!

Issue 1 - September, 2024

Editor's Note

Welcome back Panthers! The Paw Print decided to not publish a August issue for everyone to gather their minds for this one! We all worked so hard on this issue so thank you for reading our words, it means a lot! I just want to make a point that I am so thrilled to be able to call myself the 2024-2025 Editor-In-Chief of The Paw Print! I'm so excited to be back! Lets have a great year!

Sincerely,

Jasmine Luxemburger

Introducing PRP's New Athletic Trainers

By: Jasmine Luxemburger

With the 2024-2025 school year rolling around we have a few new faces here in the PRP Athletics Department. The Paw Print wants to welcome Ally Schum and Bayleigh Houchin as the new athletics trainers here at PRP! With new athletic trainers comes changes within the athletics department. Since we have two athletic trainers instead of just one, things will be a little different this year compared to last. The Paw Print decided to interview both Ally and Bayleigh to get their thoughts and feelings about this being their first year at PRP! The Paw Print also asked both Ally and Bayleigh to write a small introduction about themselves.

"My name is Ally Schum, I am one of the Athletic Trainers at PRP. I attended Spalding University where I spent three years earning a Bachelors of Science in Health Science. After I graduated with my bachelor’s I spent two years in the Masters of Science in Athletic Training program at Spalding University. I had many clinical rotations while at Spalding including two rotations at PRP with Beth and Suzanne. I am now a certified Athletic Trainer working at PRP as well as substitute teaching at PRP.”

“My name is Bayleigh Houchin. I am one of the athletic trainers at PRP. I attended Indiana University-Bloomington where I spent four years earning a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology in Exercise Science with a minor in Psychology. After I graduated with my bachelor’s, I spent two years in the Master of Science in Athletic Training program at IUB. I had many clinical rotations within the IUB athletics department as well as the neighboring high schools. After these two years, I earned a Master of Science in Athletic Training degree in May of 2024. During my undergraduate years at IUB I was on the IU all girl cheerleading team and won a national title in 2019.”

The Paw Print interviewed both Ally and Bayleigh about their career. We asked them a series of questions and they gave their responses:

What inspired you to pursue a career in athletic training?

Ally Schum: I wanted to pursue athletic training because of my love for sports and passion for helping my athletes stay healthy and in the game. I enjoy being able to treat my athletes and then see them be able to go back to playing like normal.

Bayleigh Houchin: Throughout college, I had many athletic trainers that cared for me and about me. They did everything in their power to make sure my dream of continuing to do the sport I loved was reached. I knew I wanted to be that person in an athlete's life as well.

Why did you choose to work here at PRP and how has that affected your career?

Ally Schum: I did clinical rotations at PRP for two years while in school for Athletic Training. I love the family environment at PRP and the dedication to athletics.

Bayleigh Houchin: I knew that I wanted to be in a high school setting. I absolutely loved my clinical rotation at the high school and that’s where I truly saw myself as an athletic trainer. When I was made aware of this position, I immediately applied and put all my eggs in one basket.

Can you describe a typical day in your role as an athletic trainer here at PRP?

Ally Schum: A typical day starts as soon as school lets out doing treatment and rehab for injuries as well as evaluations for new injuries. Once practices start I am watching practice to help with any injuries that may occur. If it is a home game day I help to set up the field, get the athletes ready to play and then am on the sideline to help with injuries.

Bayleigh Houchin: A typical day includes seeing any athletes who need me to evaluate an injury, provide rehab exercises, tape, first aid, and emotional support even directly after school. Once each athlete has been taken care of and are at their respective practice, I try to make my rounds to each sport and do a quick check in and watch some of the practice. I provide treatment and care at practices when needed as well. After practices, I try to hang around for a bit in case an athlete or coach needs me for something.

Can you share a memorable experience from your career?

Ally Schum: My most memorable experience so far was getting to work with the PRP baseball team last season and watching them win the State Championship. It was a great game and I cannot wait to see what this year brings.

Bayleigh Houchin: The most memorable experiences from my career is when an athlete begins to have full confidence and trust in me and comes to talk to me about anything, even things that are non sport or injury related. It warms my heart when I can step in and be that extra support someone needs.

What are some of the biggest challenges you face in your job?

Ally Schum: One of the biggest challenges of being in a highschool is having a small budget for supplies. Also being in a highschool we don’t have as much access to treatment and rehab equipment due to budget and space.

Bayleigh Houchin: Two of the biggest challenges Athletic Trainers face are explaining our role as a healthcare provider and advocating for our importance at the high school level. Up until recently, the majority of the population probably didn’t know what an athletic trainer was or what their actual job consisted of. People see the word “trainer” and think we are some sort of fitness instructor for athletes. Having an athletic trainer on the side line decreases the risk of a life threatening injury and ensures safety for everyone and it’s important for athletic trainers to advocate our importance on the side lines.

What advice would you give to someone considering a career in athletic training?

Ally Schum: If you are interested in Athletic Training, reach out to an athletic trainer and ask to shadow them. Everyday is different and our field is always changing, the best way to find out is to try it out.

Bayleigh Houchin: The best advice I can give is to truly know your worth as an athletic trainer. Athletic trainers are healthcare providers and taking full pride in that is important in this profession.

The Paw Print wants to give Ally and Bayleigh a warm welcome into PRP. We are beyond grateful for them and all that they do here in the athletics department as it is not appreciated or recognized enough. We hope they have a memorable and enjoyable time here at PRP!

How To Register To Vote

By: Lily Zerwekh

Registering to vote is incredibly important. Elections can alter the lives of everyone including young people. If you are of age, register to vote!

To register to vote; you have to be 18 years old by the time of the upcoming election (you can be 17 at the time you register as long as you are 18 by the upcoming election), be a U.S citizen and Kentucky resident for 28 days, and you cannot be a convicted felon.

First off, you can register to vote by mail, online, or in person. To begin the process, you can go to https://vote.gov/ .

To register online:

You choose what state you live in
Click the link saying "start or update your registration"
Read the welcome page going over important information
You will then fill out the next four pages asking about eligibility, identification, political party, and address
You will have the chance to review all your information and submit!

If you want to register to vote in person or get your registration card through the mail, look up "Where to register to vote in person near me". You're all set!

Whats The Tea With PRP?
By: Brooklyn Box

With the new school year comes new challenges, and this stands especially true for the school’s newscast WPRP. Mrs Huff, Pleasure Ridge Park’s former media broadcast teacher, has left Jefferson County over the summer and transferred to a county closer to home. This leaves WPRP without a proper teacher for the first few days of school. Rumors spread amongst students in the first week saying there would be a teacher in place on the first Monday of the school year, but when the day arrived they were presented with Mrs Raymer, a long term substitute teacher, instead. So what was to become of the class?

Senior students in the cinematography class banded together to create a fully functioning WPRP broadcast. With the help of one another, the students split into groups and started coming up with ideas for stories they could put together to create their first reel. They’re teaching each other how to use the equipment, Adobe Pro, and how to use the teleprompter reel. When asked for her opinion on the state of WPRP, Mrs. Raymer said, “I’m excited to work with all the kids, and hopefully I’ll learn with you all so we can keep the program going until a new, more educated person can take over.” The team has been working on a video that’s set to drop Monday, August 26th. With all these changes, we’re excited to see what WPRP has in store for us in the 2024-2025 school year.

School Shooting Awareness

By: Michelle Hayse

Now that we are entering our 2024-25 school year, we need to discuss the dangers of school shootings. Many people know that school, especially in public schools, school shootings are a tough topic. School shootings are devastating for everyone; many families are left heartbroken. Now that school is starting, it is good to have a plan set in the case of an emergency. Do you know or have a safety plan in case of the emergency? Many people have emergency contacts to call just in case they get caught in this situation. Others say they will act out of spite. If you are caught in this tragedy, it is best to use the ALICE method. This method is taught in many schools. This stands for alert, lockdown, inform, counter and evacuate. You want to alert the area of an active shooter, if you cannot get away safely, barricade the room you are in if it is safe. Next, inform the authorities of any active shooter. If by any chance the intruder gets inside your safe place, start distracting them by throwing anything you possibly can. Lastly evacuate the area if you can, get to a safe location and inform everyone you are out of harm's way. We at PRP's Paw Print wish you a safe and great school year!

A Step Towards Consolidation for the Hispanic Community in JCPS

By: Gabriela Cobas Grave de Peralta

In recent years, there has been a notable increase in Hispanic students in JCPS. Consequently, small organizations from some schools, which previously operated in an isolated manner, have seen the importance of joining together to create a stronger and more consolidated network.

Therefore, on June 1, 2024, with “The 1st Annual Hispanic Cultural Celebration” presented by Seneca High School’s Hispanic Students United, a significant milestone was marked for both the Hispanic student community and the district as a whole.

The main objective was greater inclusion and representation in decisions at the school and community level. In addition, this collaboration creates a stronger support network where we can share resources, ideas and strategies to address common challenges. This celebration of Hispanic youth leadership, as it was formally called, was held at the Grand Lion Events Center, accompanied by approximately 200 people. The vast majority belonged to the student community of Seneca High School, since they gave the initiative at the Justice Festival and have continued to lead this project, thanks to the support of students, teachers and administrators.

The event was organized by Luce Ky, who provides a support program for migrants, and the Louisville Metro Safe and Healthy Neighborhoods office, which provided follow-up and funding for the project. Continuing with one of the most deep-rooted traditions, “Quinceañeras” began this celebration but this time with a quinceañero, just as it is celebrated in Cuba and Puerto Rico. About 14 young women wearing beautiful and elegant dresses, walked around the room, then the quinceañero joined them; together they shared at the head table. Around them, from the different tables, were the other guests, students from various schools, teachers, directors, family and friends, enjoying the other cultural activities and tasting different types of food native to Latin America. To crown this ceremony, a toast with water and a prayer represented a kind of baptism for the Hispanic Student United at JCPS.

Embracing the Unknown:

Thriving During Life's Next Chapter

By: Alexa Lopez

The unknown is terrifying to the human mind and the mere thought of an uncertain future is paralyzing. As I embark on my senior year in high school, I cannot ignore the feeling of uncertainty and fear that invades me when I think about the future.

The imminent questions for high school seniors such as “What will I do?” or “What do I want?” can start hitting our minds as we realize the end of our teenage years is near. In moments like this, being concerned about the future can take place but we have to realize that it can also be a time to see opportunity and hope in our lives in the new path that we are taking. But how do I get rid of this fear towards uncertainty?

To reflect on the issue, we can absorb thoughts from philosophers and thinkers, such as, the great German philosopher Nietzsche, one of the most important philosophers in history; we encounter the concept of the Übermensch, primarily developed in his work, thus Spoke Zarathustra (1883-1885). The idea of the Übermensch (superman) refers to the "ideal" man, one who has reached spiritual maturity, overcome limiting beliefs, and become his authentic self. Nietzsche’s Übermensch represents the ideal we should aspire to in order to reach our fullest potential and leave fear aside; we can use this concept as a goal to be the best versions of ourselves.

What would Nietzsche’s superman do in the face of change and uncertainty? Change, according to Nietzsche, is an inevitable and essential component in life, emphasizing that it is uncontrollable and vital. A man who has realized his potential does not worry about the unknown; rather, he accepts and learns from the new challenges. Recognizing fear as an opportunity to advance and grow is something we can use in our daily lives.

In the words of one of my favorite Mexican authors and thinkers, Juan Miguel Zunzunegui, we have no control over the exterior. We are only responsible for our consciousness, and we only have control over one thing: whether we see things through fear or love and learning. Fear must be met and mastered in order to release all of our potential, love is a potentializer of our human essence. That's why we should see this transition from high school to independent life as a challenge to grow and to improve ourselves, not as a scary scenario.

Understanding this, my ultimate message to high school seniors is to encourage them to be brave and determined. We need people who are not scared to speak their truth and be themselves now more than ever in a world filled with hate. Use fear as a tool for growth. Make your dreams a reality. Love yourself, your story, and the future you create; honor who you are and those who came before you. Don't give up; remember that if you can control the now, the future will follow. Be your own superman.

MOVE!!
By: Taylor Ford

It takes me three minutes to get to a class six doors down. Why? PRP’s major overpopulation. The Ridge technically has a capacity of around 2,000-2,100 students. This year, we have about 1,800 students enrolled; the number is increasing daily.

Let’s go back a decade; this isn’t the first time we’ve had an overabundance of people in the building. In 2006, the principal, Dave Johnson, took in over 650 freshmen. We had more than 2,000 students at the Ridge! That number is less than 100 students away from our school’s total capacity. How did we manage?

“We had portable trailers between the tech building and the big gym,” explained Ms. Speck, who’s been teaching at PRP since 2003. “Longer time…between class periods because of how many students we had. We didn’t have an organized flow of traffic.” Pleasure Ridge Park definitely knows how to adapt. “Some teachers would have a ‘cart’, and take their stuff to a new classroom; there were no permanent rooms and the students would have to go to that new class.”

The school only had six periods a day, and made the transition into trimesters. PRP made huge changes to adapt to the overflow of freshmen they received; just like we’ve been doing for the past couple of years.

Jump forward a decade. The 2019-2020 school year had about 1,620 students enrolled. After NTI in 2023, the statistic had lowered to 1,517 students. Last year, the number had risen by one hundred, and we were back to 1,650.

Now, we’re nearing the 1,800 mark on the first day of school. “They need to go,” said one student. “..So crowded I almost fell down the stairs!”reported another student, claiming they had been pushed by the stream of freshmen and sophomores. I really believe we’re managing, and PRP has definitely dealt with bigger problems.

But let’s think about the staff in charge of dealing with these students; what do they have to say? Mrs. Haycraft, a freshman biology teacher, explained that “class size is definitely a barrier to having a good class environment. There are too many students in a class.” She claims that a class should have 25 or less students to get the “best teaching practices accomplished.”

Yes, the hallways are crowded and there’s too many students in one classroom. This, along with almost any downside, just brings more opportunities! There’s more club participation, a bigger community, and even more diversity. We have no idea what could happen in the next few months. Keep up with The Paw Print to stay informed.

Classroom Chaos: The Cell Phone Debate

Exploring the Impact of Smartphones on Learning and Discipline in Today’s Schools

By: Anthony Judd

Currently, PRP’s policy is that we do not have our phones out in class, have no earbuds in class and only one in the hall, seems reasonable right? However, if we take a look at Fern Creek’s policies, we might be grateful for our rules now. Fern Creek has students lock their phones in pouches. These pouches are locked and phone sweeps are conducted. The pouches unlock at the end of the day for students providing nearly 7 hours of uninterrupted learning.

Understanding the stakes, let's acknowledge the challenges cell phones pose in class. Phones can be a major source of distraction and have substantial academic effects. According to an American Psychological Association 2022 case study, students who frequently use their phones during class have an average 20 percent lower test score compared to those who don’t. That's the difference between a B and nearly failing. In this case, phones distract students from properly absorbing full material. Secondly, excessive phone usage can hinder face-to-face social interaction and can contribute to mental health issues. This weakens our unity as Panthers. According to a study conducted by the Child Mind Institute in 2023, 68 percent of high school students feel more isolated due to their phone usage. This over-reliance on digital communication can negatively affect students' social skills and contribute to anxiety and depression.

Before we dismiss them as distractions, let’s look at the upsides of having cell phones in class. First and foremost, cell phones are smart. They can be powerful educational tools, offering instant access to educational apps, vast online research, and real-time collaboration tools. The efficiency we’ve grown accustomed to with phones has reshaped how we tackle any assignment or project. According to a 2023 Pew Research Center report, a whopping 72 percent of teachers believe that smartphones allow students to access a broader range of resources, enriching their learning experience. Secondly, the communication and safety that phones provide have become expectations. Phones keep students connected with their families, especially in emergencies. A 2022 survey by the National Safety Council found that 83 percent of parents believe that their child having a phone during school hours provides peace of mind and enhances safety. In conclusion, cell phones are more than just potential distractions; they offer significant educational benefits and the crucial peace of mind that advanced communication provides.

Overall, the stakes are high, but we want your opinions. Next issue you all will be able to speak your minds on a forum for the administration to make their decision. Make sure you make your voice heard if you want to keep your phones. Start thinking of suggestions. What do you think should be the cell phone policy at PRP?

From Cuba To PRP

By: Maddiel Dominguez Urquiaga

Many people know the history of immigrants who travel to the United States but they don't know the lives that they leave behind. This is the history of Maykol’s life who is a PRP student. Maykol moved here from Cuba.

Maykol was a boy living with his parents and young brother. One day Maykol’s father made a big decision to immigrate to the United States. The father’s absence was felt deeply by the family he left behind. His mother cried often and she had to work hard as a manicurist to make extra money to help take care of the family. Several years later, the rest of the family was able to join Maykol’s father in the United States. The entire family was very happy and proud and they thanked God that this story had a happy ending. Maykol is working hard at PRP to get good grades and take advantage of this opportunity.

This is the first of many articles that we hope to print by new staff members who are bilingual immigrants to the United States. The Paw Print extends a warm welcome to all new students and their families who join us from other countries. Please feel free to reach out to our writers and editors and share your stories with them.

Este es el primero de muchos artículos que esperamos publicar escritos por nuevos miembros del personal que son inmigrantes bilingües en los Estados Unidos. The Paw Print les da una cálida bienvenida a todos los nuevos estudiantes y sus familias que se unen a nosotros desde otros países. No dude en comunicarse con nuestros escritores y editores, para compartir sus historias.

Il s'agit du premier d'une série d'articles que nous espérons publier, rédigés par de nouveaux membres du personnel qui sont des immigrants bilingues aux États-Unis. The Paw Print souhaite la bienvenue à tous les nouveaux étudiants et à leurs familles qui nous rejoignent depuis d'autres pays. N'hésitez pas à contacter nos auteurs et éditeurs et à partager vos histoires avec.

Issue 10 - May 2024

The Paw Print decided that the May 2024 issue will not be added into the archive due to it being just a collage of pictures of staff and student life. We apologise for any confusion.

Issue 9 - April 2024

Editor's Note

Happy spring panthers! We are officially in the home stretch of the school year. This will be the final issue I complete all by myself before I hand it off to next year's editor: Jasmine Luxemburger. I'm super exited for her to take over, but I'm also sad my time here at PRP is coming to an end. But I'll save all the sappy stuff for the senior issue next month. We have some good things lined up for you all and we hope you enjoy them!

-Maddie Yates

Assistant Principal, Jason Stinson Steps Down To Become Mascot At WKU

By: Jasmine Luxemburger

As you may have heard, Jason Stinson, Assistant Principal of the Business Academy at PRP is stepping down to become the mascot at Western Kentucky University (WKU). He states “I never really wanted to become an assistant principal; it just happened. Maybe this change of me becoming the ‘blob’ will be better for me and the school.” Stinson will plan to make his leave after this school year, so don’t expect him to be around for much longer.

Becoming the WKU mascot will create a decrease in salary for Stinson, but he believes that this career change will provide him with more confidence and happiness. Stinson will be replaced by Jamie Thorson, as this will be her first year at PRP and as an assistant principal. This career change will not only affect Stinson but will also affect PRP as Stinson has been here for many years. The staff and (some) students will miss him very much! We just want to say thank you Stinson, and that at the beginning of the next school year, expect to see Stinson….

APRIL FOOLS from The Paw Print Staff!

Spring is Here; Say Goodbye to Sadness

By: Lily Zerwekh

Seasonal depression is real. Around 20 percent of children experience seasonal depression, which is most common in winter. Many students and teachers are down from the lack of time spent outside and the no-end-in-sight feeling. Spring brings a different feeling though. It has been proved that spring does impact our moods. Everything is blooming, the weather is getting warmer, birds are chirping, and summer break is around the corner. Getting outside in the warm weather can heavily impact your mental health. Making sure you take time to enjoy it is important. Even though seasonal depression mainly occurs in winter, it is still possible during summer. About 10 percent of people who suffer from seasonal depression, suffer during Summer. Signs of depression can include feeling hopeless, being irritable, having a loss of interest in hobbies, and feeling like you are worthless. If you feel multiple of these, don’t hesitate to reach out to the school counselors or any depression hotline including 988. Ways you can combat this depression include surrounding yourself with loved ones, finding new interests, and seeking out help from trusted adults or professionals.

Teacher Spotlight: Thrasher

By: James Wetherell

Recently our very own Mr. Thrasher received national recognition for being a nationally board-certified teacher. Thrasher is only one of three current teachers here at PRP and only one of under one hundred teachers in the U.S. this year to get this recognition. This means he is qualified to teach in any school across the country.

There are four steps to get this certification: a four-hour test; teach three different units; record two units being taught and write transcripts and a 32-page essay about what the lesson taught students and how it is used in everyday life. Teachers must also demonstrate their effectiveness as teachers, and co-workers.

Congratulations Mr. Thrasher for this achievement. We the staff of The Paw Print would like to say “thank you” for being here!

Review - The Florida Project

By: Venus Long

A24 movies always deliver when it comes to amazingly weird movies. The Florida Project is no different. The movie covers themes such as poverty, childhood innocence, and the American dream. It is set in Florida around motel residents specifically Moonee and her mother Halley.

The perspective it captured is so full of childlike nostalgia, with the bright colors, atmosphere, and playful nature of the kids' adventures. Sean Baker’s director's approach with this movie really immerses you into the resilience of the impoverished community in the motel and the innocence of childhood. The children's carefree lifestyle almost draws away from the underlying problems the motel residents face. When watching the scene where Moonee plays in the bath with loud music blasting, the significance never clicked until it was revealed Halley was resorting to desperate means to get money to support their life. Halley's real struggle to provide for her and Moonee may have been a loss in the end because it eventually led to her being taken by CPS.

The sad part was that this is a true story for many people. The movie depicts it so perfectly. Like A24’s reputation for weird endings, this movie's ending was even weirder. Also quite sad because in the end we never really know what happens to Moonee. Was running away to Disney World a fantasy? The ending left more questions than answers nevertheless still amazing.

Life as a 5th Grader in 2024

By: Madalyn Lazarini

For Gen Alpha, their lives are a full-on contrast to how Gen Z was raised. Nevertheless, it still is complicated and stressful. Now, fifth graders deal with extreme bullying online and in person, different curriculums, and advanced technology to help them during class. Almost 10 years ago when I was a fifth grader in 2015 the iPhone 6 was the hot new technology trend and only a few of us had a phone. Even then we most definitely could not take phones out in class. How does being born 7 years younger than now seniors affect the next generation?

I went right to the source, my own little sister Willow. I decided to ask her what life was like as a fifth grader in 2024. “5th grade is different from the other grades in Elementary because people are meaner and at the other schools I went to they were nicer, and if people are different they are mean to you,” Willow says. I have seen this for myself. Willow has struggled to fit in at her school, if she isn’t friends with her bullies they will in turn continue to bully her. In my opinion, it seems as if the commonality of cyberbullying on social media, especially in cases where a person does not fit societal standards, has had an effect on the way kids treat each other. Willow has not expressed wanting help, so is help even available? How long will it take for teachers to see what is so plainly in front of them? Willow said, “In general to make it better for everybody people need to act nicer to the teachers and everyone and learn to be respectful, learn, and just don’t goof off.” In 2015, fifth grade definitely had those people who disrupted no matter but respecting each other and teachers wasn’t a question for the majority.

Being considered the most “digitally native” generation, technology has given kids a whole other world to live in. It can even affect their social skills and self-confidence. Eileen Kennedy-Moore, a New Jersey-based author who's a clinical psychologist specializing in parenting and child development, said that constantly posting photos online could heighten children's self-focus and make them feel that being "ordinary" wasn't enough, which could negatively impact their mental health. Kennedy-Moore also said lockdowns had led to many children being less able to deal with conflicts and "the normal bumps and bruises of interacting with other people" because they'd had less practice with it.

I also wondered how missing vital years in school due to COVID-19 affected Gen Alpha. “It was bad because we had to stay in our houses and I couldn’t see any of my friends. I had to get up really early and get on my Chromebook to do homeschool.” During quarantine, Willow had a hard time grasping the work. Since my mom worked she didn’t have a lot of help managing the work so she basically missed a chunk of the third grade which is the first year you take the KSA, which was previously K-Prep.

I also asked Willow what a day in her school day looks like. “We have to do reading and math mostly and we are learning about adding decimals right now. We mostly do it on paper but every day we get on the Chromebook to do ILC.” ILC is a website that has lessons for elementary students. Fifth graders do not even take social studies! I vividly remember having to memorize the Constitution and switching from three different classes during the day to learn from the different 5th-grade teachers. Willow stays in one classroom all day, but she does have music and gym classes every other week. I asked Willow what the Bill of Rights were and she responded, “ What's the Bill Of Rights?” Even in response to me asking who George Washington was she said, “Is that the dude that got shot in the back of the head?”

Willow expressed the pros and cons of being a soon-to-be sixth grader, “The best thing is that I’m about to be bigger and I’m in fifth grade so teachers tell us we are the leaders of the school. The worst thing is that the work in middle school is going to be way harder and they tell us that the teachers will not help us that much.” I agree with this; teachers definitely drilled into us that we were going to grow up once we graduated fifth grade.

In conclusion, the fifth grade will be forever filled with drama while the teachers attempt to sprinkle in maturity to prepare them for harder years to come. Being in the middle of being young and old is challenging for these kids. I hope that they can be allowed to still be young and have innocent fun because all those nerves will stop you from joining the clubs you want to join or making new friends. It will take a few years to truly see the effects of chronically online, and covid suffering children. But for now, we can only hope our next generation is the rose that grew from concrete.

Issue 8 - March, 2024

Editor's Note

Happy March Panthers! It's the month of luck and I'm wishing you all nothing but the best. This month we have some really interesting articles for everyone and another game of match facts. We are also getting closer to the final days of the school year. I hope you all rock it out and end it off on a good note.

-Maddie Yates

Hola! Marco Ramírez, ML Student

By: James Milburn

What does ML stand for? Multi-Lingual. Here at PRP we have 180 Students who receive services in 21 different languages. Some questions that come to mind are: what is it like to be here? What are some of the difficulties in not being able to communicate by speaking? What is it like outside of school? Well, I interviewed one of these students, a 16-year-old Hispanic boy from Chiapas, Mexico, Named Marco Ramírez.

His parents sent him here from Chiapas three months ago to keep him safe because Chiapas is known for kidnappings being a common occurrence. He now lives here in Kentucky, where he enjoys being here at school. Some of the challenges he comes across during his daily life are the language barrier; he often gets lost around the school and has to ask for help. Often he doesn’t fully understand what's going on in class. But he’s able to get around all these problems by using translators and asking for additional help. He enjoys having the support of his classmates and teachers to get him through the day.

Outside of school, he spends most of his day at home where he lives with his aunt and uncle and watches movies. Marco is not a single child either; it is likely his parents may send his younger brother here too because of the situation in Chiapas. One thing Marco would like to help him become more independent is intensive English classes to better learn the language and not have to rely on other sources.

In my personal experiences with Marco as a classmate, he’s a joy to have around. He seems like a bright and cheery kid with a good spirit and good humor. I hope he goes far in life and does well in school here and makes a lot of friends.

Luck or Illusion?

By: Jasmine Luxemburger

The Most Popular Songs Of March

By: Tron Hughes

March is just around the corner, and I’m pretty sure some great music will come from it. So while we wait for that, I’ll go over the most popular songs from the first week of March in the past decade (2014-now) according to Billboard.

2014 - “Dark Horse” by Katy Perry Ft. Juicy J

According to Billboard, “Dark Horse” was the number-one song as of March 1st, 2014. The song spent 22 weeks on the Hot 100, and four weeks at #1.

2015 - “Uptown Funk” by Mark Ronson Ft. Bruno Mars

The song spent 15 weeks in total on Billboard’s Hot 100, and 8 weeks at #1 on March 1st, 2015.

2016 - “Work” by Rihanna Ft. Drake

The collaboration between the two artists reached #1 on the charts in the first week of March after spending 4 weeks on the charts.

2017 - “Shape Of You” by Ed Sheeran

The song spent 6 weeks on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and 4 of those weeks at #1

2018 - “God’s Plan” by Drake

“God’s Plan” reached number #1 in the first week of February and stayed at #1 going into March. The song spent 5 weeks on the charts at the time and was #1 for all of those weeks.

2019 - “7 Ringz” by Ariana Grande

The song hit #1 in its first week of being on the charts. Just like “God’s Plan” the song was on the charts for 5 weeks and was #1 for all of those weeks

2020 - “The Box” by Roddy Ricch

The song spent 12 weeks on the charts by the first week of March it was #1, and stayed #1 for 8 weeks.

2021 - “Drivers License” by Olivia Rodrigo

The hit was released in January and hit number one in its first week of being on the charts and stayed #1 all the way up until March.

2022 - “We Don't Talk About Bruno” from the movie Encanto

The song spent 9 weeks on the charts by the first week of March and was #1 for 5 weeks

2023 - “Flowers” by Miley Cyrus

The hit spent 6 weeks on the charts and was #1 for all of those weeks, and the song just won Miley her first ever grammy this year.

2024 - “Texas Hold ‘Em” by Beyonce

The newly released song has been on the charts for 2 weeks and has been #1 for 1 week.

Laura Nowlin Book Reviews

By: Brooklyn Taylor

If He Had Been With Me by Laura Nowlin

Beware: there may be spoilers.

From the dedication to the last page, If He Had Been With Me stole my heart. I read If He Had Been With Me last December and can honestly say it was one of the best books I’ve ever read. This book completely altered my brain chemistry. The characters of Autumn Davis and Finny Smith were a breath of fresh air. Autumn, who was honestly a strange person with her tiara and her inability to keep friends, was sweet and creative, you could see her heart and feel her voice through each line written. She was a character you wanted to have a happy ending. She was the main character that you wanted to root for. She wasn’t whiny or annoying, she was an amazing character. Finny Smith was the perfect opposite male main character. Finny was a character that you could feel for, he was the perfect man, and even through Autumn’s heartbreaking view of him, Finny was still empathetic and you could understand why he had such a hold on Autumn’s heart for so long. Laura Nowlin is a poet trapped in an author’s body. The way she describes each significant moment was like you were really there. No book has ever made me cry. I’ve read a lot of sad books. This one had me sobbing on my floor for my mom. I’m not even joking. The characters and the plot were so refreshingly similar to real life that you laughed when they laughed and your heart broke alongside theirs. The plot was exquisite. Childhood best friends is a troupe that many authors do but I’ve never seen it done quite heartbreakingly well like this. Autumn spends her whole life pining for a man that you find out has been pining for her the whole time. Autumn and Finny are the standard at which I hold book couples to this very day. They were the perfect example of Right Person Wrong Time. They were heartbreakingly haunted in their love for each other that they overshadowed it. And they never got the chance to correct it. This book completely wrecked me in the best way ever.

So naturally I bought the second one.

If Only I Had Told Her by Laura Nowlin

Sequel to If He Had Been With Me.

How do you describe heartbreak in a way that makes it sound hauntingly beautiful? Ask Laura Nowlin because that’s exactly what she did in If Only I Had Told Her, the sequel to If He Had Been With Me. In this exquisite sequel, Laura Nowlin forces readers to relive the heartbreaking moments we just recovered from but this time in Finny’s perspective. We see his side of the love story between him and Autumn. We see the real reasonings behind the things he did. We see his love for Autumn in an entirely different light. Just for it all to end the same way the first one did. After the epic demise, the story flips to Jack’s, Finny’s best friend from the first book's, perspective. Jack, in the first book, was lighthearted and not a very big character, to make him the main character was, in my personal opinion, a perfect way to dive deeper into this book. As the best friend of the love interest, Jack wasn’t very involved in the first book at all. However Jack is the perfect black cat to Finny’s golden retreiver. Becuase we get Finny’s best friend’s perspective, we see Finny in a completely new light and it’s eye opening. Laura Nowlin takes these characters, who were already so complex in their traits, and somehow made them more relatable and better to read about. Laura Nowlin never strays from her poetic words. From the beginning to the end, the poetry is threaded beneath the words written in the pages. It’s breathtaking and hauntlingly admirable. I highly recommend these books to anyone needing a book to read. Be sure to check trigger warnings though because it dives into deeper territory at the end of the first and beginning of the second book. With that being said, these are by far two of the best books I have read in a long time. I wish I could personally thank Laura Nowlin for allowing me to read them.

Cell Phones Could Be Banned in JCPS

By: Lily Zerwekh

The use of cell phones in the classroom has been discussed many times but with House Bill 383, the phones might get banned. The bill would mean students would have to keep their phones away during school time, or at least during teaching. According to WLKY, “The measure would require local school boards across the Bluegrass State to adopt a policy that, at a minimum, forbids students from using cellphones during instructional time.” Many teachers have continued to complain about students' phone usage while teaching and the problem doesn't seem to be going away even with stricter enforcement within the schools. There would be exceptions to the ban in case of emergency or if the teacher allows use for educational purposes. With bans already happening in other states, Kentucky might be next if the bill passes.

Best Senior Parking Spot Results!

The results are in! The top 3 senior parking spots are… Raelin (number four), Tylan (number six), and Raelee (number one)! This form had a total of fifteen responses, Raelin had a total of five votes as did Tylan, and Raelee had a total of four votes. Each of these were very close to one another; in fact, we had a tie for first place with Raelin and Tylan!

Down The Drain Review

By: Venus Long

Down the Drain by Julia Fox is a book about Julia's life from adolescence into adulthood. She wrote the book completely by herself and it's something she definitely had to do herself. Julia says, “Sometimes you have to say f#@% it and throw your life down the drain just to see where you'll come out on the other side”.

Where do I even begin to cover the masterpiece that is Down the Drain? Reading this book was definitely friendly for people who don't like reading that much. If Euphoria, Thirteen, and White Oleander had a baby in book form, it would be Down the Drain.. It's reckless and dysfunctional and draws your attention like a 16-season soap opera.

Sure everyone thinks their life is a movie but Julia Fox’s life really is a movie. The book was everything it was hyped up to be. Each chapter had me ready for more. After having so many life-altering events happen to her, Fox still comes out on top. The whole book you're immersed into the crazy stuff that the more you read the more you see how this is her normal.

What really stands out is how she changes when put in different surroundings. In the book when hanging around her friend Trish she has colored hair and wears baggy clothes. They also partake in illegal activities and rebellious behavior. They go shoplifting together and when stopped by cops they make a run for it and become little fugitives. On the run from the cops, they dye their hair to not be recognized. Or when she visits her friend Brian with her other friend Harmony and they basically move there. She takes on a motherly role to Brian's boyfriend since he's an addict and doesn't take care of himself.

The best thing about the book is the amount of chances she's given. When you think all hope is lost she gets another chance multiple times before finally redeeming herself. She really shouldn't have even made it out of adolescence but she did and it's a miracle.

Issue 7 - February, 2024

Editor's Note

Happy February Panthers! Love is in the air, whether it be romantic, platonic, or even self-love, we can all celebrate! This month we have some articles for Valentine's Day, voting polls, and a new student spotlight section! We are also getting closer to the end of the school year. I just want to give words of encouragement to you all and say that I believe we can finish out this year strong! We hope you enjoy the issue!

-Maddie Yates

Single on Valentine's Day

By: Venus Long

When people think of Valentine's Day the first thing to come to mind is couples buying each other chocolate, teddy bears, flowers, and spending the day together. Contrary to popular belief Valentine's Day isn't just about romantic love. Just because you're not in a relationship doesn't mean you have to miss out on the celebration of love. There are plenty of ways to celebrate love without another person, so here are some fun ideas :

Self-care day: Treat yourself to a day full of rest and relaxation. Set up candles, put on music, take a bubble bath, or wear a face mask that you could make yourself. Take the time to really unwind and appreciate your own company
Take yourself on a date: Find a restaurant you like and take yourself on a date there. Order your favorite thing or try something new. Or you could even stay home and cook/bake for yourself. Trying out some recipes to cherish and share with family and friends.
Connect with family and friends: Valentine's Day isn't just about romantic love. It's also about cherishing all your relationships like the ones you have with friends and family. Reach out and express your appreciation for them. You could also buy or make them a sweet treat
Enjoy nature: You can also enjoy nature. The earth is beautiful and deserves much appreciation. You could go for a hike, take a leisurely stroll, or plan a picnic for yourself. Really take time to bask in the beauty of the outdoors.
Movie marathon: Make your home a little movie theater. Pop some popcorn, get some snacks, then turn on your favorite movie. Even better if it's a Valentine-centered movie to really go along with the holiday.
Explore self-expression: Do something really get creative with something you really enjoy. Writing poetry, dancing, any form of art that really interests you. Valentine's Day is all about love so the more stuff you do that you love the better.

Piercing Culture

By: Madalyn Lazarini

Have you ever gotten a piercing? What about the time you might have been just a few months out of your mother's belly and you get sat down, marked, and punctured with a piercing gun in your parent's lap. You won’t remember it, but at least you are left with a shiny decoration on your ears/ear. If you do not have any piercings keep reading for tips and a personal interview about piercings at PRP.

I interviewed PRP senior Jada Horne. She has gauges, cartilage, and lip piercings. “Well since I have gauges I get a lot of people who make rude comments about them. I've gotten asked why I'd "ruin my body like that" and "I wouldn't go any bigger if I were you, don't wanna look like Dumbo" and many other snarky remarks.” Stigma can be high with “out of the ordinary” piercings. But we need to break this idea in our community because different piercings like gauges, or facial piercings are personal choices that help people express themselves. Horne said, “If they're unsure about mine, I'd say that it isn't theirs and they need to mind their own. But if they're unsure about whether they want to get piercings, I'd tell them that it helps express yourself and to help you feel comfortable in your own skin and you can always take it out if you end up not liking it. Just do what you want and don't worry about the rest.”

I asked a classroom at Pleasure Ridge Park if they personally have any piercings. Results showed 14/24 of them have piercings. With most being nostril and ear piercings. The commonality of using piercing guns has faded with there being more general knowledge that instead using a needle can cause less tissue trauma and is more hygienic. Ignoring this fact could cost you extra months for it to heal. Piercings can also grow irritation bumps if not taken care of properly. Even with its cons, piercings still prove to be a quick way to decorate your body with beautiful jewelry. Horne stated,”My mom has almost every facial/ear piercing you can imagine so I'd say that definitely influenced me. But overall I just wanted to express myself and felt this was the best way to do it.” While you may grow up with your parents accepting simply ear lobe piercings, do not be afraid to be who you are while getting older, and don’t judge others for doing the same.

3 Tips for Healing a Piercing

Go to a Reputable Piercer.

Recommended Piercing Shops:

Family Tradition-10502 Dixie Hwy

Twisted Images- 1225 Bardstown Rd

Use the Correct Jewelry.

Safe and Hypoallergenic Option for Fresh Piercings:

Internally threaded or threadless back titanium.

Clean Properly.

Recommended After Care:

Neilmed Piercing Aftercare Mist- $14.99 for 6.3 Fluid Ounces

-Wash hands before touching the piercing.

-Spray with Neilmed Mist.

-Pat dry with a paper towel.

-Repeat 2x a day.

Aiming to be the Greatest of Them All

By: Madison Yates

“I want to be the greatest artist in the world,” Jamal McClain tells me as I interview him in the little cubby between Ms. Webb and Mr. Blevins classes, “I mean that with everything in me; I have to be the best.”

Looking at his pieces fills you with nostalgia, at least that’s how it is for me. The only way for me to describe it is purely “Louisvillian.” We both agree that the city is a hidden gem when it comes to artists, especially ones like Jamal, “I think hidden gem is the perfect word to use because at the end of the day, there’s so many people who will help you do the thing you’re trying to do,” he explains, going on to describe the passion the city has for underground artists, “I feel like a lot of people’s passion is the same in Louisville. We have many artist…you have singers, dancers, actors. I feel like no matter what you’re going for, you’re going to be discovered by somebody else in Louisville.”

Not only has Jamal been found in Louisville by others, having just recently received 3rd place in the Kentucky Derby’s annual ‘Horsing Around’ contest, but he’s also found himself through art. “My grandmother always loved me drawing, and she was always my inspiration, I always drew at her house…but meeting Webb really elevated me to be a better artist [and] to take it seriously.”

His girlfriend, Ebreona Harper, another senior here at PRP, was awarded the 150 Award alongside Jamal’s 3rd place win. The two got to be interviewed together on the news, getting to talk about their wins and how it felt winning together. “I’m so proud of that girl,” Jamal starts, “The fact that she won a big award, that’s crazy to me and I’m very proud of her. I’m her biggest cheerleader. I couldn’t ask for a better person to be with.”

“I don’t know about other art schools, or other art teachers, but growing up in middle school, going to Western, I didn’t get a lot of opportunities to be an artist. When I came to PRP, with Webb, I feel like she gave me so many opportunities,” He explains, “She keeps my mentions open for competitions. Being at home, I’m not really aware of contest, but here I am.”

Jamal is a student artist unlike any other I’ve met. He’s creative, passionate, and take a great pride in his work. Without looking at the competitions and the awards, his work is nostalgic and real. If you’re interested in looking at more of his work, you can follow his Instagram: @clbjaymcclain17

Holidays of Spring

By: Malachi Ditto

As February starts we edge closer and closer to the season of spring. Flowers start blooming, people with allergies start stocking up on Zyrtec, the air becomes warmer, and people start celebrating their favorite spring holidays. When you think of spring holidays you probably think of Easter, or St Patrick's Day, but there’s so much more to spring holidays than the ones that are mainstream and I’m here to show you these holidays and give you an idea of what they’re all about.

Passover

Passover, which is also called Peasch, is a Jewish holiday that celebrates the Jews's escape from slavery in Egypt. Passover coincides with the 15th day of the Hebrew month, Nisan. Passover is celebrated for 8 days in the Jewish diaspora. On the first day of Passover, a special dinner is held known as a seder. During seder prayer is held, and families tell stories and sing. The foods served during Seder hold a symbolic meaning celebrating the Hebrews' escape from persecution.

Holi

Holi is a Hindu holiday known as the festival of colors. It celebrates the love of the deities Radha and Krishna. Holi also celebrates the beginning of spring and is an invitation for a good harvesting season. The best places in India to celebrate Holi are Uttar Pradesh, Barsana, and Punjab.

Cimburijada

Cimburijada which directly translates to “The Festival of Scrambled Eggs.” is a celebration held in Bosnia that has been held for hundreds of years. Friends and families come together on the first day of spring to listen to music, socialize, and eat the main dish, a huge pot of scrambled eggs cooked over an open fire.

The Corpse Bride Review

By: Tron Hughes

*SPOILER ALERT*

Since Valentine's Day is coming up next month I decided to do a movie review on a love story, but I didn’t want to do one of those cliche love stories--even though I like those too--I chose a more out of the box love story.

Corpse Bride follows the main character Victor Van Dort on his journey to marrying Victoria Everglot, but goes through some complications while doing so; he goes out into the woods to practice his speech after messing it up multiple times. He practiced until got it perfect and once he did he put the ring on a root sticking out the ground, but the root happened to be the ring finger of a dead corpse of a bride, and that starts the story of Victor and Emily (Corpse Bride).

I chose to watch this movie because I had just watched Coraline--which was also written by Tim Burton--and I loved it and then this movie showed up in the recommendations and it seemed very interesting, and that it was. At first I was a little confused with what was going on when Emily took Victor down to her world. I also wondered how She would take the news that the marriage was a mistake, and that Victor had a different love in his life. I felt very relaxed watching this movie; something about the animation just makes you feel very comfortable even though it’s slightly creepy. I don’t know. It just has great and very unique animations, and you could say that about most of Tim’s movies. The only downside to the movie for me personally was the movie focuses on Emily and Victor for majority of the movie, but at the end Victor married Victoria. That was just a little downside because I was rooting for them getting married. This movie was actually really good; I can definitely see myself coming back to this on a rainy day. Overall, I think I'd give it a 8/10.

$5 Date Ideas

By: Lily Zerwekh

No job? Struggling financially? Need help planning a date? Not a problem, here are 5 dates you can go on for $5 or less.

Yew Dell Gardens, Cost: $0

The Yew Dell Botanical Gardens are a beautiful group of gardens, a castle, and a cafe. There are incredible sights to see including the fairy forest which is not only for children, adults can enjoy the wonder of fairy houses too. The Dell gardens would be a beautiful place for a romantic, fun-filled date. Admission is free but for the best experience possible, visit yewdellgardens.org.

Cave Hill Cemetery, Cost: $0

While a cemetery might not sound like the best place to go on a date, Cave Hill Cemetery is actually an incredibly beautiful place. Many historical figures from Kentucky have been buried there including Muhammad Ali. The area covers almost 300 acres of land and is filled with colorful scenery. The cemetery could make for an amazing, out-of-the-ordinary date (depending on the person).

Nature Center, Cost: $0

The Louisville Nature Center would be the perfect place to take a nature loving partner. Hiking trails, indoor wildlife exhibits, bird watching, and more cover the property. When visiting during the warmer months, butterflies flourish. The Center is not too far from the Louisville Zoo and many incredible restaurants.

Historic old Louisville, Cost: $0-$5

This may not seem like a very fun activity but walking around old louisville can be a great experience. There are many things to explore and things to do. There are museums, parks, and beautiful houses. You can even book a walking tour or ghost tour for varying prices. Some cheaper tour options include tours on https://old-louisville-neighborhood-council.square.site/.

A picnic, Cost: $0-$5

In Louisville, there are so many beautiful parks. Some closest to us include Waverly Park and Riverview Park. If you're willing to drive a little, you can find Central Park and Cherokee Park. A picnic is a classic date activity. Find some food your partner likes, dress up, find a nice spot, and eat!

Issue 6 - January, 2024

Editor's Note

Happy New Year Panthers! We're in the final stretch of the school year, so let's knock it out of the park. This issue of the Paw Print has some interesting history and highlights about our school, so be sure to read through it all. We have also started Match Facts! Match the correct teacher with the correct fact, the person who has the most facts correct will win a $20 Amazon Gift Card! The new year brings new beginnings, and I hope everyone follows through with their resolutions. Good tidings!

-Maddie Yates

The History of PRP

By: Madalyn Lazarini

Sixty-five years ago in 1958 a plot of land on Greenwood road layed vacant. Destined to be bought one day in the upcoming Pleasure Ridge Park neighborhood. It could’ve become another suburban neighborhood or even a grocery store. But in a change of fate construction started in the summer of 1958 to open a school. By September 7th, 1958, Pleasure Ridge Park High School opened its doors to soon welcome 900 students. Since then thousands of students have attended our school across the decades. In this 2023 school year there are a total of 1,540 students. But our school didn’t always look how it does now. The tech building or the football field were some things that weren’t always here. The first graduating class of Seniors was in 1962. When first founded, PRP started out as a Junior High School for 7th through 9th grade. New grades were added each year. An addition to the school was added in 1960 to accommodate more grades and students. In the same year was when we first got our football and baseball stadiums home. An addition to the school was added in 1960 to accommodate more grades and students. In the same year PRP got its first football and baseball stadiums. Our baseball team won its 6th state championship in 2017. Making the PRP baseball team a hotspot for upcoming athletes.

I asked Malachi Ditto, a senior at PRP, what his initial thoughts about PRP were before he went into highschool. “People thought it was a good school. This girl that worked at my daycare went to PRP and ever since I knew she went there I knew I had to come.”

Our history isn’t all filled with uplifting stories. Prior to Mrs.Duff being principal, we had our own staff scandal. In 2014 principal David Johnson was investigated for spending budget money on school trips to afford his luxury lifestyle. He stayed in different, more expensive, cars, condos, and ate high end meals. He owed the board $12,000, which he has now paid off. Equal rights weren’t common when the school was founded, being it was 1958. In the first year of PRP there were only 2 black students in the entire school. By the summer of 1961 in Louisville most schools were desegregated. Now we have what is called a Student Assignment Plan which is designed to promote economic and racial integration across the district. A substitute explained to my source, Liz Menendez, that while she attended PRP in the 60s even getting on the bus would be a struggle, with students haggling her off and on the bus, even being left behind and missing schooling because of her race.

Now, Pleasure Ridge Park is ranked #10 of best high schools in JCPS county. A proud place home to 3 amazing academies; Manufacturing, Engineering, and Design, Business and Communications, and the Health Sciences Academy . Our school's history is becoming more diverse with the ESL program bringing students from all over to our very own high school. A weapon scare in 2021 shook most of us, causing students to run for their lives scared they would be the next memorial on television. 2 years later and our school finally added metal detectors this month to ensure safety. Pleasure Ridge Park did not let our history not define us. Instead used it as a tool to grow into a better school community.

An Honest Review of Pink Friday 2

By: Malachi Ditto

On December 8th of 2023, Nicki Minaj released her long-awaited album. I’m here to give you an honest and unbiased review of Pink Friday 2. I’ll be giving each song a ranking of 1-5 and then rank the album as a whole.

“Are You Gone Already” : 2/5

“Barbie Dangerous” : 3/5

“FTCU” : 4/5

“Beep Beep” : 4/5

“Fallin 4 U” : 2/5

“Let Me Calm Down” : 2/5

“RNB” : 5/5

“Pink Birthday” : 5/5

“Needle” : 3/5

“Cowgirl” : 1/5

“Everybody” : 4/5

“Big Difference” : 3/5

“Red Ruby Da Sleeze”: 3/5

“Forward From Trini”: 2/5

“Pink Friday Girls” : 4/5

“Super Freaky Girl” : 5/5

“Bahm Bahm” : 4/5

“My Life” : 2/5

“Nicki Hendrix” : 4/5

“Blessings” : 3/5

“The Last Time I Saw You” : 4/5

“Just The Memories”: 3/5

I would give the entire album a rating of 3 ½ out of five. There are many creative samples throughout the album, and mixes of pop, R&B, and rap. Some of the tracks have beats, and lyrics that are very boring, but the album has more energetic and fun songs than boring ones. You’ll probably like this album if you like Nicki Minaj's old pop music and like music with creative lyrics.

The Pulse is Back!

By: James Wetherell-Milburn

It is that time of the year again to get your creativity going and possibly showcased in The Pulse. Many of you are probably wondering, “What is The Pulse?” The Pulse is an art and literary book made to show what students can create and come up with. The hosting teachers of The Pulse are Mrs. Scott-Berger and Mrs. Webb. Mrs. Scott-burger is an English, and Journalism teacher, and Mrs. Webb is an art teacher.

The reason why The Pulse was made was to give the students a creative outlet, to show off what PRP’s student artists, writers, and photographers can do, and to raise awareness for the creative talent they have. The Pulse has given students a little more confidence to show off their work. We would like more to step up and show us what you, the student population, can come up with.

Ms. Scott-Berger’s favorite thing about The Pulse is that “The kids get to be creative, and I don’t have to give them a grade on it; they can write what they want as long as it’s school-appropriate.” Mrs. Denise Webb said, “I love just being able to see collectively all the amazing things my students have made throughout the year.”

This year The Pulse will cost three dollars per physical copy, but there will be two ways to view the issue for free. The first way is by getting your work published in The Pulse, or the second way is by viewing it online for free.

You can submit your information to The Pulse by the deadline of the end of February by joining the Google Pulse page. The code is wowxyyy.

A Critique of High School Arts

By: Madison Yates

The arts make up almost half of the extra-curriculars in high school, yet sports seem to overshadow them. Why do we let this happen? Is it a lack of interest from students, or a lack of care from the administration? Funding seems to be on the shoulders of the kids, directors scramble to try and put together a good show, and administrators only seem to care when another trophy is secured for the school.

Being in theater here at Pleasure Ridge Park High School has let me see firsthand the different treatment the creative arts get. It isn’t just from the administration, it’s mostly from the students. Over my past four years here, I’ve seen kids get less and less interested in humanities and arts, leaning towards wanting to do gym or treating their art elective as a free period.

Underclassmen tend to sit on their phones, pretend to work, and pass on a pity grade. We seem to lack any excitement for the craft of theatrics, rolling our eyes when teachers try to make any attempt at doing something cool. Is this the teachers’ fault? I don’t fully think so. I think it stems from kids' rebellion and how administrators treat schools.

According to most schools in America, including ours, school is a place of business, for serious matters that prepare us for the future. They make schoolwork seem boring and tireless, with test and state assessments that make us want to pull our hair out. If they use school as a whole generalization, the arts fall under this. Kids will treat their work in art classes the same as they do in math classes.

But then we have the American traditions like homecoming. We have school dances. We have parties that reward good grades. That is what’s treated like fun for all students. Things that relate to sports or the class, not things that relate to individual groups or clubs. Not every student has school pride or wants to be at a pep rally. The number of students who stay in the library or sit with a teacher who doesn’t attend is high. Not every kid cares about these things.

I look at the theater we have at school and get somber. It’s not very old, having been built a little over ten years ago, yet it’s deteriorated. Half the lights don’t work, the speaker system is blown, and the seats fall apart easily. We simply don’t keep up with it, we don’t have a tech crew to make sure it stays up to date. Why would we build a state-of-the-art facility for it to only fall apart in its first decade?

We can refurbish our football field, but we can’t muster up enough money to put on a single show. Campbell is a wonderful teacher, she gives excellent lessons and teaches the material, but nobody seems to care. It’s sad to see her and Mx. Miracle try their hardest to put on something for the arts department, but watch it fall apart due to finances and student disinterest.

I think we need to rethink the way we advertise and fund high school arts. It lacks any real passion from kids and is treated like a grade rather than an exciting interest. PRP is the second school for theater next to YPAS, yet we haven’t put on a show this year. The administration needs to help with the arts the same way they help with sports. It’s more than just a trophy with the stage.

Issue 5 - December, 2023

Editor's Note

Happy December Panthers! We've made it to the end of another year, which means the first semester is coming to a close. This month, we'll be looking at different holidays, activities, and the different traditions our Panthers have. This year has been wonderful for the newsletter and our team would like to thank everyone who has made this first semester something special. Happy Holidays from The Paw Print!

-Maddie Yates

Things to do in Louisville During the Winter Time

By: Tron Hughes

You Can Go Ice Skating!

Louisville offers multiple places for you to take your friends and family ice skating. The Fête de Noël Winter Holiday Festival offers the only authentic outdoor skating rink in Louisville. They have a Winter Holiday festival that lasts for 6 weeks and consists of more than just ice skating: there are photos with Santa, a trackless train ride, a Holiday Market, and more! So what are you waiting for? Grab your coat, lace up your skates, get on the ice, and go!

(Located at 731 Brent St, Louisville, KY)

Have You Ever Seen The Lights Under Louisville?

Do you like to look at Christmas decorations? Well, then you’ll love Lights Under Louisville! Take you and your family on a 30-minute joy ride through The Louisville Mega Cavern to view over 900 light displays.

The Lights Under Louisville spectacular is open from November 10th to January 1st and starts at 9:30 am to 10 pm

(Located at 1841 Taylor Ave, Louisville, KY)

How About Ziplining?

Located right under the Louisville Zoo is the World’s only fully underground zipline course. The Mega Cavern offers a 2 1⁄2 hour tour through 6 ziplines and 2 challenge bridges! It’s also ranked as the number 1 attraction in Louisville by Trip Advisor. And good news: They’re open all year round! So go whenever.

(Located at 1841 Taylor Ave, Louisville, KY)

The Movies!

There are multiple movies coming this December just in time for you to gather your family to watch a Christmas movie on the big screen! You can watch Candy Cane Lane starring Eddie Murphy on December 1st, or maybe Diary of a Wimpy Kid Christmas: Cabin Fever on December 8th.

And there are so many more things to do this winter so why just stay in the house doing nothing? Get out there and have fun!

(written by Tron with much enthusiasm)

Why and What is the Backpack?

By: James Wetherell-Milburn

It’s that time of the year again when seniors start working on their Backpack Defenses. First let's go over what the Backpack is. The Backpack is an end of the year presentation made by Fifth, Eighth and Twelfth graders to show their growth and prove their readiness for the next grade, the presentation is usually anywhere from 10-15 minutes long. In the presentation you’ll go over five different required categories each needing at least one artifact, and what your plan is after high school or what you plan to do in middle school or high school if you're in Fifth or Eighth grade.

I interviewed teachers and former students about their thoughts on the Backpack and what they would change, The opinions from the teachers were all similar, in that the concept was a good idea because it shows how students have improved, and that they have the necessary skills to move on to the workforce, or to college but, that in recent years it does need improvement, With teachers saying “I understand the original reason why it was created, but I don’t think it serves its original purpose anymore,” and “ A good idea, because it does ideally mimic what students have to do after high school in college or their careers. But some areas can be improved with how the district rolled it out.”

When it came to items they would change about the backpack, they would give more creative freedom with it and to be able to not have to give a template, “I would love to see students have more ownership and flexibility and be very creative at showing how they mastered that skill,” said by Mrs. Tiffany Williams, another thing that one of the teachers would change is the amount of time it takes for the students to get ready for the presentation and give the presentation itself, and to have it done in a much quicker fashion. Ideally, they would have students work on them every year and then in their senior year, they would take a week to “Edit, update, revise,” and then present it.

Then when it comes to the student population they all had different opinions on how the backpack has impacted “I think it’s one more thing they hate,” and “They don’t really, other than as a graduation requirement and you have to check the box to get it done,” and “I feel like it has over the year given the students the opportunity to reflect as a learner.” But even with these different views, they all agree it does help students show that they are ready for what comes next.

With all that being said, I hope everyone can look at this article, and use this as a resource to help improve and possibly change your backpacks for the better, and good luck to all Panthers seeing this current year and possible future students.

Sweater Fest is Back for a Third Time

By: Lily Zerwekh

Sweater Fest is a DIY local music festival and coat drive for Kentucky Refugee Ministries. The festival benefits incredible local musicians, vendors, and artists. The show is for all ages and costs $10 in advance (online) and $15 at the door. Headliners Music Hall opens their doors at noon but the music doesn't start until 12:30 pm on December 16. The bands playing include; Snooper, Anemic Royalty, Tabs, Black Sheep Mobb, Surfaced, The Ego Trippers, Rat Motel, Terminal Axon, Antithesis, Qwerty, Lucky Star, and Sharp Stars. Along with music, food, art, vendors, and video games will be available.

After an incredible first run in 2021, Sweater Fest was moved from Portal@fifteenTWELVE to an even bigger location, Headliners. Sweater Fest 2021 became a sold-out event and pulled more people into the local scene. Many coats were collected in both previous shows so hopes are high for this year’s festival. Please donate any lightly or unworn coats if you are able. You can now purchase tickets through the Instagram account @sweater.festky.

Christmas Traditions

By: Venus Long

Christmas is a holiday celebrated by millions of people around the world. It’s a time when people connect with joy, love, and togetherness, filled with unique traditions that bring families and communities closer together. In this interview, I got to explore different traditions practiced in different homes and cultural backgrounds. Through personal stories and experiences shared by our interviewees, I gained more understanding of the significance of traditions in people's lives and the lasting memories that stick with them through the holiday season.

First, we have James Frazier, a junior at PRP. Frazier is Catholic and he celebrates Christmas on Christmas Eve at his dad's house. It's significant because his parents are divorced so he celebrates Christmas for two days with different parents each day. His favorite memory from this tradition is spending time with his sister before she passed.

Next, we have Abigail Junpin, a junior at PRP who doesn't really believe in God. Her favorite Christmas tradition is petting her cat. This is significant to her because she's had the cat ever since she was a child. Her favorite memory from this tradition is being a good cat mom to her cat.

Ms Scott-Berger, a teacher at PRP, says that when she grew up they always had two celebrations. “On Christmas Eve, we would open our presents to each other. There were quite a few since we were a family of seven. It was always my job to hand out the gifts, which I loved doing.” On Christmas Day, her family would open presents that were left the night before by Santa. Her uncle would always come over to visit and they’d enjoy a huge Christmas dinner together. “These days,” she continues, “I just work my Christmas schedule around my daughters and their families.”

We all have a variety of traditions that help shape our memories. I’d like to suggest that we talk to each other about our different traditions. What a great way to learn more about each other. Have a great holiday!

Join SkillsUSA Today!

By: Madalyn Lazarini

This 2023 school year has brought on even more members to the once, lesser-known, SkillsUSA. The group, which has been in existence for 20 years, officially has an office with President David Antonio-Bonilla. He and his office are ready to make a name for themselves at Pleasure Ridge Park. Looking around the school you might have seen flyers showing off the red, white, and blue color scheme with a bold SkillsUSA lettering. Make sure to look closer to figure out the next meeting date. Fundraising for the group begins in high spirits these next few weeks due before Christmas Break. This will bring unique PRP Christmas ornaments with designs yet to be announced, and more merchandise to come. There is an issue with an insufficient amount of people available to fit skill-based jobs. SkillsUSA is filling that gap.

SkillsUSA is a skill/trade-based organization that prepares you for leadership in the world of work by giving you the unique opportunity to learn vital skills for adulthood, such as personal skills, technical skills, and workplace skills. For any student who finds applying academic knowledge to a competition level intriguing then joining the club is the best choice for you. Being able to put your awards on resumes to back up what you’ve learned from your pathways is a great way to be career-ready. Plus belonging to a computer of people with like-minded interests. Most meetings consist of speaking on fundraising, competitions, and creative ideas for growth. Meetings are occasionally hosted virtually so that there is more time available for all members to attend. Last year the chapter got to attend the district competition at Fern Creek and people from advertising, graphic design, and TV/Production were in attendance. Ryan Dallum from Graphic Design, and Kaitlyn Webb, Maddie Yates, and Madalyn Lazarini from TV/Production advanced to the State Competition. This program actively makes you career-ready. With over 140 occupational areas, if you enjoy your specific pathway at PRP, SkillsUSA has the perfect category you can choose from to hone your skills. Working alongside all the academies allows the program to have a lot of creative freedom. Competitions consist of prompts received by the organization and then you have to apply the steps you know to complete your task. Showing your interest at a meeting is the best way to join, and they are welcoming anyone to join their creatively diverse community. Talk to Mrs. Huff in the ITV room or Mr. Wills in T112A to learn more about SkillsUSA opportunities.

Holidays Around the World

By: Jasmine Luzemburger

In different areas of the world, there are different holidays at this time of the year. Believe it or not, not everyone actually celebrates Christmas. Different countries have different beliefs and traditions. There are many different types of holidays such as: Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, and Winter Solstice. Each of these holidays has its own traditions and beliefs. Have you ever wondered what other holidays are like?

Christmas is the holiday everyone knows and loves. This holiday is mainly celebrated by Christians, as the holiday is built on the belief that the son of God, Jesus was born on this day. This holiday takes place on December 25th every year! Many families celebrate this on the morning of Christmas; people will open gifts given to them by family members or for the little ones, Santa. Santa is believed to come in the late night of Christmas Eve (the night before Christmas) and set presents under the Christmas trees for all the children.

Unlike Christmas, Hanukkah is a mainly Jewish holiday. This holiday will be celebrated on December 7th, 2023, and continue until December 15th, 2023. Hanukkah is a Jewish festival where people celebrate this holiday by lighting candles on a candelabrum with nine branches, more commonly known as a menorah. This holiday is built on the belief in the rededication of the Holy Temple in Jerusalem. People celebrate this holiday by lighting one of the candles on the menorah and reading scriptures daily.

Kwanzaa is a holiday celebrated mostly by African-American culture. This holiday will be celebrated from December 26th to January 1st! This holiday is built on the belief that each of the seven days is tied to a different principle: unity, self-determination, collective responsibility, cooperative economics, purpose, creativity, and faith. Kwanzaa is mainly celebrated by storytelling, singing and dancing, and a feast which is held on the sixth day. They also light a candle each day for the different principles, on a kinara (candleholder).

Winter Solstice is a holiday most people are not aware of. Winter Solstice is mainly celebrated by the indigenous Hopi Tribe. This holiday will be celebrated on December 21st, 2023 at 10:27 pm. This holiday is built on the belief that the Earth’s poles reach the maximum tilt away from the sun. When this holiday occurs it is known to have the shortest amount of daylight. This holiday is celebrated in many different ways: burning yule logs, measuring the daylight, visiting Stonehenge, making orange pomanders, and many more!

Many different places around the world have different beliefs than you and your family do. This means there are many more different types of holidays you could celebrate! Different holidays come with different traditions, you may be interested in one of them! While different ethnicities and religions are expanding in our area, these not-so-common holidays may start to become normal to the people around you!

Literary Submissions

Symbolize

By: April Mercer

[CURTAIN RISES]

(Down by the river, Jovi and his cousin Marcellus are seen collecting various kinds of flowers with flamboyant colors. Jovi with his patent fingernail polished yellow – slightly chipped yet matching his necklace as well as his shirt, though it's certainly more on the dull side – and Marc with his paint-dusted fingers, as the latter had expressed his creativity for hours on end before getting a call, Jovi's name flashing on the screen.)

MARCELLUS

Hey Jovi, have you ever painted

before? Y'know, it could be something as

simple as brushing a paintbrush against

any sized canvas just once.

JOVI

(pausing to think)

I feel like I just experienced a strong

sense of déjà vu from that question.

MARCELLUS

(laughing)

I suppose it's already been

answered then, huh?

JOVI

Yeah. But I've thought about asking

you if I could paint something with

your help. I could go to a workshop

and try to sculpt something easy,

then go to your place?

(Jovi has been to Marcellus' house countless times before for family-related things, but never to hang out with him directly. Despite that being said, Jovi can think of a few occasions where, after family dinners, he found himself curious about the art of painting. So, he has watched Marcellus be in his element. And now, he's getting a glimpse of him in his other element; picking out the most appealing flowers.)

MARCELLUS

Sounds good. Also, what

are we doing this for?

JOVI

Well, I plan on making a floral

wreath. You're the only person I

know who is well-versed in the

subject, so . . . yeah.

MARCELLUS

Ah, a guirnalda [wreath]. Now that I

know more, maybe we should go about

this another way. What emotions do you

want to get across? What will you do with

the guirnalda?

JOVI

Something to welcome guests?

Maybe put it on the front door?

I haven't thought about the specifics

yet.

MARCELLUS

(wide-eyed)

You really are clueless.

JOVI

Oh, come on, give me some

credit! What would be best?

(With flowers clutched in his hand, Marcellus stops for a breath and sits on the sand. It doesn't bother him, as he's lived near this river all his life and gotten rather used to it getting everywhere. Jovi silently eyes him, his collection of flowers at his side. He decides to sit by Marc, but not too close. He doesn't want to be a bother, especially because Marc seems particularly lost in his mind, mindlessly gazing as the sun's hue dims from a blinding yellow to a muted gold. By the time it sinks below the horizon, Marc has an idea.)

MARCELLUS

Red and white. Red; love and celebration. White;

tranquility and peace. It's a contrast, but it's fundamentally

saying that even though it's for a celebration, there's also more

than enough room for celebration. In shorter words, let's pick

red roses and white daises.

JOVI

Right, right . . . Whatever you just

said. I agree, a hundred percent. Ten-

fold, even. You know, I –

MARCELLUS

Shut up.

JOVI

Shutting up, now.

(Marcellus begins picking up the perfect flowers with the sleeves on his shirt rolled up to his elbows, but Jovi's attention is captured by the whirring of a boat in the river. Someone is on a surfboard in the coruscating water, riding entirely where a group of entrancing ripples cast back the sun at multiple different angles. The person tightly grips onto something near the edge of the boat, moving relatively slow and simultaneously fast. Alas, it falls somewhere in the middle.)

MARCELLUS

Do you have a favorite flower?

JOVI

(shrugging)

I don't know. Maybe my birth

flower. What do chrysanthemums

symbolize?

MARCELLUS

Optimism. It makes sense to me, to

be honest. You strike me as an optimist.

And if you were wondering what my favorite

is, it'd be a foxglove, for their exotic name

and because they symbolize healing, which

I love. In English folklore, it was believed that

foxes used the bell-shaped flowers of the fox-glove

to wear them as gloves. The term 'fox' in the name

could also be from the word 'folks' or 'fairies.'

JOVI

How'd you learn this?

MARCELLUS

It'd be impossible to give you a

clear-cut answer, because I've used

so many sources. But, the Internet?

From books, new and old, as well as

scriptures on flowers and folklore, if not

somewhere online. But I don't trust the

Internet as much.

JOVI

I'm sure you have another story

of folklore or some sort of history

up in that brain of yours, then?

MARCELLUS

(chuckling)

Of course, I'm full of random tidbits.

Roses are called what they are because

it was a tribute to Aphrodite's – goddess

of beauty – son, Eros. And tulips are from

the Turkish word for turban, 'tülbend,' since

that's what the flower appeared to look really

similar to.

JOVI

(curious)

What does your name mean? I'm

sure you've looked it up before.

MARCELLUS

Young warrior; linked to the Roman deity

Mars. In ancient lore, Mars is the son of

Juno and Jupiter. I have no clue what a

modern warrior would look like, but I

hope I'm living up to my name.

[CURTAIN FALLS]

Issue 4 - November, 2023

Editor's Note

Happy November Panthers! We are officially in deep fall and those clocks are back one hour. I know November is the month of Thanksgiving, but it really just means we are one month away from Christmas! This month we have some good pieces for you, including a nice list of things to do this fall. Just remember to put on your coats people, it's getting cold out there!

-Maddie Yates

Students Against Destructive Decisions (SADD)

By: Jasmine Luxemburger

A new club has started in PRP! I would like to introduce the Students Against Destructive Decisions (SADD) Club! SADD is a club that students organized that supports making the right choices and creating mindsets that go against destructive decisions. This club is sponsored by Katie Thorton, Dave McCoy, and Jamie Baxter. This club also has two co-presidents, Lilly Zagula and Khira Thorton.

The Paw Print asked the co-presidents a few questions; “Why did you want to lead SADD” and “How do you plan to change PRP?” We first interviewed Lilly Zagula. She states that she would like to create a positive change on PRP and “shed light on students struggling.” She says that she plans to change PRP by having SADD meetings twice a month. We then asked Khira Thorton the same questions. She says she wanted to lead SADD to help students become more successful. She plans to change PRP by leading students away from destructive decisions. She also says SADD is a place for students who agree with the mission to “support and find community within PRP.”

The first official SADD interest meeting was held on October 13, 2023 and there were a lot of kids interested! If you are interested in becoming a member SADD you can talk to any of the sponsors of the club or either of the co presidents. There is no official date set for the next meeting so keep an eye out if you are interested!

Things to do This Fall

By: Venus Long

It’s getting colder and winter is coming. What is there to do in Louisville? Here are some great ideas:

Go to a park- Parks can be a chill place to hang out with friends or by yourself. Cherokee park, Chickasaw Park, Iroquois Park, Seneca Park are all great places to visit.
Go thrifting/antique shopping- Thrifting/antique shopping is so fun; you never know what you'll find for the lowest prices. There are Goodwills and Peddlers Malls all over Louisville. Some other possible stores to visit are Nearly New Thrift Shop and Vintagevibelou.
Go see a movie- Movies are probably the best ways to kill time and going in person is 10 times more fun. There's Baxter theater, St Matthews Cinemark, Xscape theater, and drive-ins like Georgetown.
Visit an orchard/farm- This is at the top of the list of things to do this fall. Not only can you buy fresh fruits and vegetables but there are also shops with cute fall collectibles. Huber's Orchard and Winery, Boyd Orchards, and Hillview Farm & Orchard are just a few.
Walk Bardstown Road- There are so many great restaurants and artsy shops on Bardstown Road. Also if you're into fashion so many places sell cool clothes and accessories.

Ladies in Pink for Annual Powder Puff Game

By: Madalyn Lazarini

Ever since my first physical year at Pleasure Ridge Park, Powder Puff has kept its place in the roster of traditions we have at Pleasure Ridge Park High School. I participated in the Powder Puff sport event on October 26th, 2023. As a personal custom, I set my goals at the beginning of the school year. I reflected on my years spent in the school system and decided I desperately needed to participate more. My main prerogative was to do anything I could to avoid regret after graduating. PowderPuff is one of the main activities I chose to participate in. This year the senior PowderPuff team did not have even half of the women we needed for a full team. I can not urge enough for the underclassman to participate in PowderPuff in their upcoming school year.

Powderpuff is a flag football game played by women in high school. At PRP this is a match played between Juniors and Seniors. This season's theme was Breast Cancer Awareness. The seniors were shining with their bright pink-colored long sleeves, adorned with the Breast Cancer ribbon and the senior title on display. Juniors wore similar outfits but in contrasting white. Both teams have the opportunity to get sweatpants spray painted with any design of their choice. My favorite aspect is the creativity you have when picking the clever nickname design for your pants and keeping them as memorabilia is the cherry on top. Preparing for the game usually starts a month beforehand in September. There are three practices a week to allow all players more time to plan around their other sports. Being on a team with only people from your class is a big upside to playing PowderPuff. But this year the class of 2024 had trouble finding enough girls for our team. Seniors who played offense had to learn defense to be a part of our two-team rotation on defense. This caused frustration throughout the team and even coaches at practices.

I interviewed seniors Karlia Thruston, Brooklyn “Brooke” Cole, and Shatraya Harrison to learn more about what it was like to play PowderPuff this year. Brooke Cole who played wide receiver said, “Yeah, like everyone has good attitudes, nobody argues about nothing.” Karlia Thruston whispers, “Except *censored*.” There can be multiple natural leaders in a group. There are always power struggles between competitive girls and girls who are players. In something like Powder Puff it is a mixture of fun but also putting yourself up to the test. I asked if these women would ever want to see an official women's football team here at Pleasure Ridge Park. Karlia Thruston who played defense said, “It would be fun to tackle people.” Brooke Cole chimes in, “And wear the helmets and stuff, if they let the girls play on the football team I probably would do it.” Girls are actively interested in a non-flag football for female students at Pleasure Ridge Park. We have strong, confident girls who could bring a powerful team to the school. Shatraya Harrison says,” I would agree with football becoming official. After all, it would be something I would actually, genuinely be into because it is really fun. I think a lot of females that you wouldn't expect to be into football want to play it or be out there and they're moving and doing great stuff and there are a lot of people that want to do it but are scared because a lot of people do not see it as a woman's sport.

A big part of a sports team is having a good attitude. Becoming upset is normal but to be on any team, respecting people enough to give/receive apologies, and getting along means the most of all. Shatraya Harrison who played safety on defense said, “I would say in my opinion there is a really good community, there are some people at certain times that like to argue and bicker but other than that it's pretty good.” With the teachers, some were arguing between the coaches a little bit there, but otherwise, now we’re all good.” Brooke Cole revealed her motives for playing this year, she said, “There are more opportunities, and taking people's flags is kind of fun and chasing after them. I just wanted to do victory dances.” In compliance with the team, all the senior girls even learned a dance to hype each other, and the audience. The game concluded with a score of 37-0. Junior players accused the Seniors of cheating post-game. Giving reasons such as foul plays, trick plays, and not blocking properly. Being all in good fun and sportsmanship the claims are laughed off as the talk of the game dies down. When I had to block my junior friends all I could do was laugh and apologize. The Junior's gameplay consisted of a lot of pass plays that were easily spotted by the seniors, resulting in flags being pulled. Their team did not get the opportunity to practice with flags which was not a helpful choice from their coaches. Seniors had a trick play called “Jet Sweep Reverse” With this play we scored a touchdown from around the 50-yard line. The play consists of me (Wide-Receiver) running behind the quarterback to receive the pass and then switching it off to our tight end, Jada Murray. Jada Murray scored multiple touchdowns, becoming the star of the game. Shatraya Harrison says, “I've learned more leadership skills because I stepped in for the D-line a lot better than I have for the O-line because I am more of a defensive person. So I was able to step up and take the leader role. Pros would be getting to know people, getting out there working out, and just having a good time. I’d say the cons are how sore you are afterward, cause you'll be sitting there limping upstairs or just being tired.”

The Powder Puff team and all upperclassmen encourage you to participate in Powder Puff. It is something rare to find in a school making the opportunity to join more than worth it.

The Malachi Mac & Cheese Recipe

By: Malachi Ditto

Fill a pot with water, and put it on the stove at high heat.
Put salt and macaroni noodles into the pot.
Stir noodles occasionally until the water boils.
Let the noodles boil until they get soft.
Drain the noodles.
Add 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese.
1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
1 cup shredded Mozzarella cheese
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
Add salt, pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper
Stir the mixture in with the noodles.
When all the noodles are cheesy, move them into a baking pan.
Add more shredded cheese on top of the noodles.
You can also add Paprika on top too.
Bake in the oven For 20 minutes at 325 degrees fahrenheit.
Take out the oven and wait until the mac and cheese is warm to eat.

Unusual November Holidays

By: Lily Zerwekh

Thanksgiving and Veterans day are both incredibly well known holidays in November but you probably haven't heard of Pickle day or World Toilet Day, or many other strange holidays. The origins behind these odd holidays actually date back to 1949 according to life.com. Humans have been finding reasons to celebrate since BCE (basically as long as they’ve been on earth). The funny holiday craze didn’t become popular until the 90’s and 2000’s though. According to northjersey.com, there are 1500 national holidays recognized by the National Day Calendar. Along with Pickle day and Toilet day, there are many other national holidays in November such as: Plan Your Epitaph Day (November 2), Cook For Your Pets Day (November 1), Use Your Common Sense Day (November 4), Bittersweet Chocolate With Almonds Day (November 7), and Saxophone Day (November 6).

National Pickle day is on November 14th of this year, 2023. The holiday originated in 1949 when it was known as National Pickle Week. The people who actually officiated the holiday were none other than the National Pickle Packers Association.

World Toilet Day lands on November 19th of every year since 2001. Putting the name aside, World Toilet Day is actually not a joke. The holiday was made in an attempt to spread awareness about the need for all humans to have access to sanitation according to un.org. Many people around the world are facing a “sanitation crisis”, the holiday hopes to educate others about the issue.

What's Happening to the Gaza Strip

By: James Wetherell-Milburn

On October 7th, Israeli airstrikes hit the Gaza Strip killing 100 civilians in Be’eri, and over 260 in Re’im; these numbers count all, men, women, and children. including which has displaced an estimated 600,000 people into the southern parts of Gaza, with 400,000 crowding into UNRWA emergency shelters.

How it Started.

To understand the situation fully we must look back to 2005 when Isreals withdrawal from Gaza where they pulled all civilans and military troops from Gaza but retained airspace over Gaza. When the Islamic party Hamas won the January 2006 Palestinian legislative election, gaining a majority of seats in the Palestinian Legislative Council, the conflict between Israel and Gaza intensified. Israel sealed its border with the Gaza Strip, largely preventing free flow of people and many imports and exports.

Palestinians retaliated by shooting rockets at nearby Isreali seatlements near the border of Gaza and staged-cross border raids aimed at killing or capturing Isreali soilders, in 2007 an internal fight broke out between Hamas and Fatah, and Hamas fully consolidated its power by staging an armed coup d'état and taking control of the Gaza Strip. After the fighting that occured in which 118 Palestinians where killed and more than 500 wounded, the entire Gaza Strip came under full control of a Hamas government.

As a response to the Hamas takeover, Israel sharply restricted the flow of people and goods into and out of Gaza. About 70% of Gaza's workforce became unemployed or without pay, and about 80% of its residents lived in poverty. Since Hamas' takeover, Palestinian armed groups in Gaza and Israel continued to clash. Palestinian armed groups fired rockets into Israel, killing Israeli civilians, including children, and wounding others, as well as causing damage to infrastructure; and Israel launched attacks and shelled Gaza with artillery, killing Palestinian combatants as well as civilians, including children, and causing devistating damage to infenstructure.

Who Are The Hamas?

The Hamas is a Sunni Islamist political and military organization governing the Gaza Strip of the Palestinian territories. in which its secular rival Fatah exercises control. Hamas is widely considered to be the "dominant political force" within the Palestinian territories.

What are Hamas currently fighting for?

They are currently fighting to establish an Islamic Palestinian state in place of Isreal and reject all agreements made between the PLO and Israel. Hamas' strength is concentrated in the Gaza Strip and areas of the West Bank.

What Will Happen Next?

Both sides are still fighting to this day and the end does not seem to be in sight; both parties seem very invested into making their plans a reality for the Hamas they have the goal of establishing the Islamic Palestinian state and Isreal has came out and vowed to “Destroy Isreal” and neither side seems keen on stopping until their goals are met.

Literary Submissions

The Search of Beauty

By: Kenay Valdes

The search for beauty is a fundamental aspect of the human experience. Throughout our lives, we are constantly seeking beauty in various forms, whether it be in art, nature, relationships, or within ourselves. Beauty is a concept that transcends cultural boundaries and speaks to the core of our existence. It has the power to captivate our senses, evoke emotions, and inspire us to explore the world around us.

One of the remarkable aspects of this quest for beauty is that it can be found all around us, in the most unexpected places. Nature, with its breathtaking landscapes, intricate patterns, and the mesmerizing play of light and shadow, offers a never-ending source of inspiration. Art, in its myriad forms, invites us to see the world through different lenses, challenging our perspectives and deepening our appreciation of the aesthetic.

However, as we journey through life in search of external beauty, we often discover that the most profound and transformative beauty lies within ourselves. It is an inner beauty that transcends physical appearances and superficial judgments. This inner beauty is not merely about how we look but who we are as individuals. It encompasses qualities such as kindness, compassion, resilience, and authenticity. When we begin to recognize and cultivate these qualities within ourselves, the search for beauty takes a new direction.

The discovery of inner beauty is a pivotal moment in one's life. It marks a shift from the external to the internal, from the pursuit of fleeting aesthetics to the embrace of enduring virtues. It signifies a deeper understanding of our own worth and a newfound appreciation for the beauty within others. This internal beauty has the power to bring profound contentment and fulfillment.

However, the realization of inner beauty does not signal the end of our life's journey; rather, it marks the beginning of a new pursuit. It inspires us to share our inner beauty with the world, to make a positive impact on the lives of others, and to contribute to the greater good. This new pursuit is guided by the desire to create a more beautiful world, not just in its aesthetics but in the kindness, empathy, and love we bring to it.

Therefore, the search for beauty is a lifelong journey that begins with the external and often leads us to the internal. When we find beauty within ourselves, it transforms us and propels us on a new path—a path guided by the intention to make the world a more beautiful place through our actions, our words, and our deeds. The pursuit of beauty is not just a personal quest but a shared endeavor to create a world where inner and outer beauty coexist in harmony, enriching the lives of all who encounter it.

Spaceman

By: James Milburn

I can’t stay around here anymore, it’s time to head to my rocketship and take off to the stars far far away.

You’ll see me in the clouds, good luck trying to get me.

Got Stars Burst stuck to my gums, my mouth starts to bleed, and my lungs start to rip.

Waking up in wreckage and somewhere I’ve never seen.

I feel green, and like I’m living in a wasteland somewhere on Mars.

SHE

By: Brooklyn Taylor

She feels as if She is playing a different instrument than the rest of the orchestra. She wants to be in tune and in sync. And She misses it by a half a step. He leaves by a half a step. She fails at half a step. Her friends don’t like the person She has become and She can’t even blame them. She doesn’t like Her either. She is always loud. She is mostly annoying. She can’t do anything right. She plays her instrument a half a step behind. And no matter how hard She tries and fights and plays and lives. She is always a half a step behind. But She is forced to keep playing. And She is forced to love life. Even though life never seemed to love Her back. And as She walks through this life with glass in Her feet. She is forced to keep Her head held high. When She truly wants to sink and drown. She is forced to swim. When She sees the lighthouse warning Her of land. She isn’t afriad to crash. She is at peace with the silence. Maybe through death life will appreciate Her. Her friends will cry and say they miss the loud. They miss the annoying. They miss the sound of an instrument a half a step behind. They miss the girl that she was before life convinced her to die.

Love is Scary

By: Harley Patterson

Everyone is always talking about how being loved is exciting and happy, the most amazing thing in the world if you may. They however never talk about how scary it is.

Being loved is terrifying. You're giving your all to this one person. This one person who makes you feel alive. Shows you that you can be loved, they show you that you're allowed to be yourself. No hiding, no need for the mask you carry with you. They bring your best out.

The scary part is not knowing what’s going on in their head, you have no clue what they think of when they look at you. Is it your eyes? Are they looking at your smile? Or maybe it’s something that you're insecure about. Like your body, your face, the birthmark or beauty mark you have.

What do they think when they see those things? Do they think you’re perfect just the way you are? Or is it that they are thinking this person isn't good enough for me? That’s why you never hold eye contact. Too afraid of what they may be thinking. Too scared to know the truth of their thoughts. It echoes in your mind every day, scared it may be the last you see them.

This is why you hug them like it’s your last embrace you’ll share. You cherish the little things and the moments you’re surrounded by their divine presence. For if you don’t, you’ll wish you did.

Being loved is terrifying, yet we love with all our might. Why? Because it’s the scare that makes it exciting.

Issue 3 - October, 2023

Editor's Note

Happy Halloween Panthers! Fall is officially upon us, which means scary movies, changing of the leaves, and pumpkin spice everything (unless that isn’t your thing.) This month we’ve changed things up to captivate the spooky vibes, and we’ve got some juicy articles for you. Be sure to also check out Dear MaK, since it finally got its feet off the ground! We worked hard on this, so I hope you enjoy it.

-Maddie Yates

The Ghost of PRP

By: Malachi Ditto

As the Halloween season approaches, and the air outside starts getting colder, there is a looming feeling of horror and the paranormal. Many people in the population of Pleasure Ridge Park High School, have had run-ins with spirits longing to finish their business and pass on. Our very own librarian here at PRP, Mrs. Reed shared her story stating, “I’ve always known that the library is haunted. I always get creepy feelings if I’m here by myself. I’d hear noises, but last year was the big reveal when I was standing at the circulation desk right here, and we have these cups that the kids would use.” Mrs Reed would go on to state that, “I was standing right at the desk and there was an aid as my witness; the cup flew off the desk.” When asked if the ghost has a name she said, “No, and I don't know if it’s male or female but Mrs. Frank also feels its presence.”

If this doesn’t send a chill down your spine I don’t know what will. Members of the student body have also felt a significant presence of the paranormal during this time. PRP senior Shatraya Harrison recounted her experience saying, “ I was in my grandparents’ house trying to sleep, and I couldn’t sleep because I could hear people talking, and feel people watching even though everyone was asleep.” Shatraya also added “ I could see the shadows and the outlines of the ghosts.”

5 Things to Do This Fall Season

By: Jaelynn Nolen

So many cool things are happening this fall season and they seem to keep people busy every year. Considering you’re reading this and you attend PRP, here are 5 (local) things you can do this fall break.

PRP Trunk or Treat

If there is candy, I’m gonna be there. The trunk or treat is a time for clubs and organizations to wear their best costumes and represent their group as a whole, as well as, have fun and see/meet new people. This festivity consists of the different clubs at PRP decorating the trunk of a car, handing out candy, and just enjoying the holiday. You down a line along the cars. (or down the hallway if the weather is different) This is a great thing to do to get out and get candy! I went to the trunk or treat last year, and was representing BSU. We had a great time, and it turned out to be so successful that we had to keep getting more candy because we ran out so much.

This year, the trunk or treat will be on October 26th, 2023, 6:00-8:00 on the track. (located on the football field)

Halloween Movie Marathon | Click me for a Halloween movie watchlist

Fall is the perfect time to open your windows, burn a candle, make cookies, and watch Halloween movies. It has always been a tradition in my home where we make certain days dedicated to sitting down and watching Halloween movies just to get “in the spirit”. To check this off of the list of things to do this fall season, find a loved one or a friend and make a list of movies to watch and make it special. Grab some cookie dough and turn on a movie. If you don’t feel like making a list, I made my own above next to the title of this section! Have fun and get spooked.

Louisville Jack O’ Lantern Spectacular

Personally, I enjoy this activity a lot and have done it multiple times. The walk consists of you and a group of others walking through the trees of Iroquois Park through a natural path. Several jack-o’lanterns line the path, and as you walk along, you get the opportunity to see and enjoy all of the designs. These designs can range from Barbie to Krampus, from Texas Chainsaw Massacre to Paw Patrol. I seriously consider doing this, this fall season. They usually have food vendors that serve things like hotdogs and hot chocolate with it being (usually) chilly.

This event happens every year (unless said otherwise) from October 3rd to October 31st. For more information, please visit the link provided above in the title of this section.

Haunted Houses

This is probably the most exciting, if not the most enjoyable thing I have ever done during every fall season. Haunted houses are better when they have themes of certain things you enjoy like bugs or Kentucky history. Speaking of Kentucky history, we are home to, allegedly, the most haunted place in America; Waverly Hills Sanitorium. Waverly Hills is located off of Dixie Highway and used to be a tuberculosis treatment facility. A company bought the building to host haunted attractions every year.

Other haunted attractions are local and loved, such as:

Field of Screams - Meade County, KY
Nightmare Forest - Meade County, KY
Devils Attic - Louisville, KY
American Horrorplex - Louisville, KY

Fun fact: There is a drag show that usually takes place as vendors are selling things and the haunted house is going on.

There are many more haunted houses, but these are the most visited and most talked about.

Trick or Treat

What would the fall season be without trick or treating? Honestly, trick or treating makes me feel little again, and I can never pass up on free candy. You dress up as whatever you want and you get to be with people you enjoy. Parties and get-togethers are also common during this time, which is also another thing to look forward to. Grab a group of friends, and come up with a group costume idea. A great example of this could be, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.

With that being said, don’t spend your fall season being sad. You have so much to look forward to and you get to hang out with cool people doing cool things. Halloween is a time to be weird and express yourself, as well as take candy from strangers. I hope you all consider this article when planning your festivities for this fall season. And lastly, let me know if enjoy my movie list or even looked at it by emailing me at: jaelynne.nolen@stu.jefferson.kyschools.us

Have a very scary fall season and eat candy. *evil cackling* ~

The Saw Review

By: Tron Hughes

The first ever Saw movie was released in 2004 and it was a major hit. It was the first of its kind and it defined a whole era of horror movies. The franchise went on to create eight more movies, and now they’re finally coming back with their 10th installment to the franchise, Saw X; in theaters on Friday, September 29th. So in honor of the upcoming horror film, I will be reviewing Saw I.

The Recap

Saw begins with Adam and Dr. Gordon’s test. Their test takes place in a nasty abandoned bathroom with a dead man lying on the floor in the center of the room. They’re both tied to a pipe in opposite corners of the room. Adam is being tested to see how much he values life after being a drug addict, and Dr. Gordon is being tested to see how much he values his family after not being the best father/husband to his wife and daughter. The objective of the test is for Dr. Gordon to kill Adam before six o’clock and for Adam to just survive.

While that’s going down another test is in progress. Zep Hindle’s test was to make sure Dr. Gordon killed Adam and if he failed then Zep would kill his wife and daughter.

The Review

Going into this movie I had very high expectations because I had just watched Saw II right before, and that movie was just amazing, and this movie was even better (in my opinion). The movie grew my interest as it revealed more and more of Jigsaw’s plan, and the suspense kept me at the edge of my seat when the characters had to make life-or-death decisions. The ending of the movie had probably my favorite twist I’ve ever seen. After finishing the movie I was automatically on to Saw III and after that, I watched every movie in the Saw franchise. I give this movie a 10/10, I highly recommend to anyone who's into horror to watch this movie.

The Governor's School For The Arts

By: Madison Yates

Calling all Sophomores and Juniors, it’s Governor’s School for the Arts time! For those of you wondering, GSA is, according to its website, “three weeks of incredibly intense (and incredibly fun) arts instruction. For three solid weeks, the students live, breathe, eat, and sleep the arts. It’s a thrilling, often life-changing experience, as they meet new friends, explore their creativity, and discover new things about who they are and who they can be in the future.”

The application process is the most nerve-wracking portion. Sam Vega, a senior who attended GSA under the Visual Arts discipline, described it as, “Hell. I almost gave up. Like, halfway through I was like, “I’m done with this,” but I miraculously pulled through and I finished it. So, I mean, it was worth it in the end, but while doing it, it was an awful experience.” She doesn’t discourage people or try to scare them into not applying. She goes on to say, “It was an out-of-world experience. It doesn’t feel real. It was amazing.”

Ryan Dallum, another senior who participated in the Visual Arts discipline, describes it as, “ten out of ten experience, would recommend.” She and Sam also went on to explain how it’s helped them get into college and all the benefits that come with it. “Murray offers a full ride to GSA alum,” Vega went on to say, “they also give a little presentation and they have different speakers from colleges come out.”

“Don’t give up on the application process,” Vega tells underclassmen looking to apply, and Dallum adds, “start early on the application….[and] don’t wait until the last minute. That’s when it gets super stressful. But don’t lose hope and don’t give up.”

The different disciplines include instrumental music, dance, musical theatre, creative writing, visual arts, film + photography, design, drama, and vocal music. Be sure to check out the GSA website for the application timeline and to find answers to any questions you might have: https://www.kentuckyperformingarts.org/education/governors-school-for-the-arts

Take Care of Your Health

By: Venus Long

Did you know that PRP offers a free medical resource for students? Well, we do and I had the honor of speaking with Elizabeth Zarontonello the nurse practitioner at Park Duvalle at PRP and she gave some insight into what they do there, and a minor Park Duvalle history lesson.

Park Duvalle started in 1960 in the Park Duvalle neighborhood. It was a resource for people who were uninsured/underinsured and didn't have access to medical care. Park Duvalle is funded by the federal government and they provide all types of services such as dental, pharmacy, women's health, etc. Park Duvalle also offers sports physicals for people who aren't up to date on theirs or are starting sports.

Zarontonello said, “Park Duvalle’s main goal is to bring health care to anyone who needs it.” Park Duvalle’s main goal is to get everyone up to date on their immunizations and for Park Duvalle to be a safe place for students to ask questions and take charge of their health.

Zarontonello encourages students to stop by have a conversation and ask questions about their health. As someone who is a part of the Health Science Academy, I had to ask what I or others have to do to work in Park Duvalle. Interested people would have to be medical assistants, nurses, nurse practitioners, doctors, etc.

Park Duvalle has helped better our school by being a very convenient resource for students who don't see a doctor or have trouble making it to one. You don't have to take off from school for a check-up when Park Duvalle is here. So stop by Park Duvalle in the Tech Building if you have any questions or want to be informed about your health.

Live For Jake (A Tribute)

By: Jasmine Luxemburger

John “Jake” Luxemburger IV was born on September 25, 2012, and died on September 16, 2023. Jake was 10 years old, with a little over a week until his 11th birthday. Jake was killed in Crestwood, Kentucky on the way home from spending a “birthday run” with his grandmother, Teri Portnoy. Jake had been killed in a tragic car accident involving a driver who had been running from the police. Jake and his grandmother had been less than a mile away from their home in Crestwood.

Jake had played on a team called the Bananas, and his dad, Trey Luxemburger was his coach. Jake played his last game on Friday, September 15, 2023. Even though they suffered a devastating loss, Jake’s parents insisted that Jake would have wanted the Bananas to play even through this tragedy. The Bananas will be playing on Friday, September 22 as a tribute to Jake.

Jake had an amazing soul and we will never forget all of the lives that he had touched within the 10 years he had been on this earth. Jake never went anywhere without a smile on his face. He was ‘a light in this world, a light that was extinguished too soon’ says Jake's parents, Trey & Kate Luxemburger. “He was easy to joke around with, charismatic and stood out among his peers. Our school community is saddened by this great loss” said the letter from Kenwood Station Elementary Principal, Jenn Crase.

Jake was my cousin, and I am truly devastated by this loss. Jake had been taken from us way too soon. Jake had always looked up to his sister, Rylee Luxemburger, and never wanted to be away from her. He had such a bright soul, and it will continue to shine even though he is not here with us physically. With this information, please continue to give love to his family and friends, and never forget this truly amazing soul. We love you, Jake.

Live For Jake.

The Panther Pit

By: James Wetherell-Milburn

The Panther Pit is our school’s store where they sell school supplies, clothing with the school logo, and other school-related items. The Panther Pit accepts all types of payments and every type of card as well. The store staff plans to bring more variety to the store such as new T-shirt designs, hats, beanies, and backpacks as well as school supplies with the school's logo. when asked, Mrs. Danzinger what some of the goals for the Panther Pit this year; she plans on making an online store for parents and students to order from, and being able to enter our school store into a competition called (SBE)

When talking to the staff asking what made them want to work in the Panther Pit they all said that it was an experience. This is technically work experience and this can be used as a reference for getting a real job, as well as just getting to do something they’ve never done before. When asked about anything they would change about the store the staff all said it's perfect, some saying it’s a good environment. They also said to follow the Panther Pits social media pages as there will be constant updates on Facebook (We are PRP), TikTok, and Instagram (prp_pantherpit). The Panther Pit may also be hosting an art contest for students to enter into and winning art will be made into merchandise for students to purchase.

The Panther Pit’s open times for this semester are during lunch; Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday. If you ever have a free moment please stop by the Panther Pit you will not regret it.

Home is Where the Violence is

By: Lily Zerwekh

According to Sandyhookpromise.org, “Each day 12 children die from gun violence in America. Another 32 are shot and injured.” Our school is one out of many that have been affected. This is my personal story. To start, I will talk about the family a few doors down from mine. In December 2022, I got a call from my stepmom whose house I was going to in a couple of hours. She said there had been a shooting and a family was dead. The news was, of course, shocking and I immediately wanted to know what happened. According to WDRB, “Four people were found shot and killed at a home near Valley Station.'' The husband had allegedly shot his wife, his two daughters, and then himself. The entire road was blocked off by a police blockade. A bullet was found in front of our house. It was honestly unbelievable. After that day, everyone just went along like normal; we drove by the house and it was like nothing happened.

It’s horrifying that this is just the reality of what happens; people don’t have access to the help they need. A few days after the shooting, a family friend sent my stepmom a picture. She showed me the picture and it’s of someone who’s been shot in front of our friend’s house. At school the next day, I came to realize the person in the picture was Draven Daniel, my classmate. The shock I felt has yet to be matched. According to WLKY, “Police say Draven is the teen found shot to death in an alley in the Shawnee neighborhood near River Park Drive and 39th Street around 2:30 p.m. Tuesday.” My condolences to everyone who has been affected by gun violence. Don’t be afraid to speak up if you know something.

Bear Hunt

By: Jasmine Luxemburger

On September 8, 2023 the Butler vs. PRP game took place. The game was held at Butler Traditional High School at 7:00 p.m. The theme for the game was “bear hunt.” Butler has been one of PRP’s biggest rivals since forever. The game had huge talk around PRP since Butler is our rival. The game wasn’t close, but Butler got more points than expected.

The game started as a normal football game with tackles and touchdowns but something weird happened.. A rush of people from Butler's student section ran over to our student section. There were rumors of someone about to get jumped, weapons, and even drugs, but no one knows for sure what happened.

The Paw Print interviewed 3 different PRP football players, Jaden Davis, Tucker Roth, and Kayleb (Buck) Anderson. We asked each player “Why is Butler one of our biggest rivals and do you have an estimated score?”

We interviewed Jaden Davis first he stated “I'm not sure why Butler is one of our biggest rivals because they have been bad for a while. I think we're rivals so we can be ‘the kings of the south end’ since we're both on this end.” We then ask ‘Do you have an estimated score?’ Jaden states that he thinks the score would be 48-6 PRP. We then interviewed Tucker Roth, he states “I think Butler is one of the biggest rivals we have because we are the two best teams on this side of town even though we beat them every time.” We then asked for his estimated score, 35-0 PRP. Lastly, we interviewed Kayleb (Buck) Anderson, he stated his reasoning for the rivalry is “Because of how the schools have treated each other for so long, and because of the way Butler is, I don't know anyone from anywhere that likes them. Also, the competition it used to be.” We lastly asked his estimated score, he says he does not have one, but he believes PRP will win and Butler will have a score of zero.

Now the time you all have been waiting for, the results. PRP became victorious over Butler with a score of 21-12. The game was an upset to many different people as they were thinking PRP would come victorious over Butler by a sweep or by winning with Butler having 0. The Butler game was an enjoyable evening, and I would recommend coming to football games more often!

Local PRP Attacks - Be Aware of Your Surroundings

By: Jumirra Montgomery

There have been numerous attacks and robberies recently in the PRP area. In the area circling our school, an attack took place on August 25, 2023. A woman was attacked and robbed. This isn't the only attack near PRP recently. There have been plenty more.

This is scary because this is the area surrounding our school and the neighborhood some of ua live in and we have to be cautious of our surroundings. This is even more dangerous for women because people are more likely to attack women than men. This serial robber is also preying on women.

According to WLKY, in the past three months, numerous women have been victimized in the PRP area.

Literary Submissions

Photosynthesis

By: Madalyn L.

If you grip the sun harder than me, what brings you comfort most?

Leaving me for cold to ignite your own flame

While I writhe in my curled position

Waiting for a brighter sun to reach past you

Watching my field be plentiful with rainfall

While my roots dig me deeper into my shaded corner

I accept my fate

Your biological poison fades with your disappearance

I shouldn’t blame you for your random sprout

Instead I wallow in my unfortunate luck

I wait for some mother to send me into bloom with her mercy

A rhythmic drum beats from my chest

Exuding light rays larger than any star

I cannot possible dwindle myself to follow your estranged light

Your cast soon fades as my stem deeply inhales

My petals soft and fragrant of powder

Bloomed and ripe for the next fruitful winter I allow into my solemn warmth

Issue 2 - September, 2023

Editor's Note

Happy September Panthers! We’ve officially entered the second month of the school year! September brings two of my favorite things: Fall and Homecoming. The Paw Print has proudly selected Madalyn Lazarini as our queen candidate! Make sure to cast your votes for her when voting opens. Other than homecoming, it’s fall season! Be ready for chilly weather and the changing of leaves. This issue of The Paw Print has some exciting stuff in store for you, so I hope you enjoy it!

(Ps. Remember to check out Dear MaK, Maddie's M&M's, and April's Excerpts!)

-Maddie Yates

Hispanic Heritage Month

By: Madalyn Lazarini & Malachi Ditto

America shows unity by celebrating different cultures each month of the year. Coming up this September 15th through October 15th is Hispanic Heritage Month. Pleasure Ridge Park had its own Hispanic Culture Club with a designated instagram account for the club. From September 2022 to January 2023 they held club meetings every Thursday, from 2:30 P.M. to 3:30 P.M. PRP has a Hispanic population of 7%. Making the club's main objective is to bring students together to meet new people in their community. In 2022, the club created an Ofrenda to display on the first-floor entrance. While celebrating this month we heard the stories of our very own Latino/Latina community here at Pleasure Ridge Park. Liz Menendez is a Junior at PRP. When she was almost 9 years old, Menendez and her family immigrated from Esmeralda, Cuba, a province in Camagüey, to Louisville, Kentucky. The process took nearly a decade, Menendez was not even born before her Father began his attempts to come to America. When she was conceived her Dad wrote his first letter to officials. He had figured out his wife was pregnant. He expressed his deep desire for his children to grow up where they can have opportunities in the world of technology. During this time of energy being poured into this dream, there were moments where success seemed virtually impossible. After 9 years, the Menendez family finally made it to Louisville. Menedez excelled in school, graduating from the E.S.L (English Second Language) program in the 4th grade, only 2 years after her arrival. “Americans aren't as community-minded. So that can be interpreted as disrespectful. The perks of living in Cuba are being monocultural. There is no community here unless you’re the same race.” Menendez states. We spoke to PRP High School Senior, Harold Gonzalez. Also having his roots in Cuba he shares a similar social insight as Menendez. Gonzalez noted that when he moved to Louisville he was more shocked by the normalcy of disrespect than in his hometown of Havana, Cuba. Community is hard to find for Hispanic people in our school. Clubs like the Hispanic Culture Club become vital to keep alive. Food fuels our bodies but for people around the globe, it also fuels culture. Gonzalez shared that his favorite food is “Arroz congri,” a dish made up of black beans, and rice. This is served at virtually every Cuban restaurant. Pedro Perez is a Senior, he spoke on his experience living in Louisville for only 3 years. “I was born in Mexico. The place I’m from is called Tepic, it’s a city in Nayarit.” Perez said. A place home to excellent museums with pre-hispanic artifacts, and beautiful cathedrals. “ There's a type of music called Corridos Tumbados, I like that music a lot,” Perez excitedly explains. Corridos Tumbados is a new take on regional Mexican music that gives the music that the older generations of Mexico listen to, a more younger and modern twist. Some artists who perform this style of music are Peso Pluma, Junior H, Fuerza Regida, and Eslabon Armondo. The likes of which have grown in popularity over the last summer with songs like “Ella Baila Sola”, “Sabor Fresa”, and “Se Amerita” rising in the charts. Another important part of Mexican culture is the food, the thing that brings all people together. When asked about his favorite cultural food Perez stated. “ I would say tacos and burritos, steak tacos,” which would traditionally be called carne asada tacos, which are believed to have come into the light during the 1500s. It’s also not a commonly known fact that burritos were invented in the Mexican state of Sonora. With this being said we can see how Mexican food has influenced American food, But It’s not only Mexico or Food that influences America, it’s music, movies, customs, and so much more from 20 different countries. So next time you're listening to reggaeton, or eating at your favorite taco joint, remember that without Hispanic culture, and people of Hispanic heritage you wouldn’t be enjoying that luxury.

Diving Into the Volleyball Season

By: Jasmine Luxemburger

With August ending and September beginning, volleyball is right around the corner! Yes, our PRP volleyball team is beginning, but so is college. Volleyball is a very interesting sport to watch. People come from all different places just to watch their favorite teams play. University of Louisville volleyball brings tons of fans to Louisville to watch the team play. The PRP volleyball team also brings out quite a crowd of students and staff whenever they play their games.

Our school volleyball team had their first game on August 16, but not everyone was fully aware of that. Our PRP volleyball team has its own Instagram page which gives students and staff updates on the team and when they play next. The page name is “prpvball” and they update every few days on when the team plays next! The volleyball team is currently 2-1 (not including the tournament games) and will play their first September game on September 9 against Whitefield Academy. This game will take place at Whitefield Academy if you would like to support your Lady Panthers.

The Paw Print interviewed a few of our very own PRP volleyball players, including the coaches. We asked each girl; “Are you excited for volleyball season to begin?” “ What position do you play?” and “Why will this season be different from previous years?” The first person we interviewed was Nitah Romero, head coach. Nitah states, “Yes, I am extremely excited for the volleyball season to start. I am the head coach. This year will be different because I am the coach.” Lastly, we interviewed Danica Clark, a senior. Danica tells us, “Yes I am excited for the volleyball season to begin. Currently, I play as our libero, but I am also the backup setter if Jazz gets hurt." This season is different because there is a lot more energy and positivity.

Louisville Women's Volleyball will begin on August 25 and will play Troy University. They will play in Louisville, Kentucky at the L&N Federal Credit Union Arena. With Louisville Volleyball beginning, they practice almost daily to be prepared to play some of their biggest rivals. Such as; the University of Kentucky and the University of Pittsburgh. Now don’t mistake me, Yes Louisville Volleyball has been playing games, but that was just something we call “Spring Season.” Spring season is not the same thing as regular season games. Let's think about it as little warm-up games or so.

The PRP volleyball season will be coming to an end in mid-October when they will compete in the KHSAA District Volleyball Tournament. If you planned on going to any games this season you better start going to these games before the season is over! The Louisville volleyball season will end at the beginning of December when they will compete in the NCAA Women's Volleyball Tournament.

Something to Write For

By: Malachi Ditto

With the writer's strike, that started on May 2nd of 2023, now coming into the 100-day range, Hollywood has decided to make up for the way they've treated their writers. Now, before I explain Hollywood’s compromise, I’ll give context on how the strikes started. It all started on March 14, when the WGA released an article about how writers are affected by the takeover of streaming, and A.I. This has been the longest interruption for movies, and television since the Covid-19 pandemic, and this is very reminiscent of the WGA strike of 1988 that lasted for 153 days, with this in mind you’d think the studios would learn. Realizing that they’re not making any money, multiple chief executives on August 11th came together to discuss a new proposal. The said proposal states that this is executives' “Highest wage increase in three decades,” the proposal also includes protection against A.I., and sending writers reports disclosing viewership to the writers. In my opinion, I believe that these strikes are showing that workers don’t need to compromise and be crushed at the feet of corporations. This proposal is not only a sign of optimism for the writers on strike but for everybody in the working class.

Learning in Style

By: Madalyn Lazarini

Comfort or Effort? PRP has a melting pot of different styles. Walking to class, you pass a kid wearing Nike sweatpants paired with a gray hoodie, and undoubtedly, a pair of crocs. Sitting in class, you glance at a quiet guy in the back who rocks baggy jeans and a vintage tee. With the dress code applied, fashion becomes a way of fitting into school rules, and even more, fitting into trends. “I Love Hot Milfs'' tees, Air Force 1’s, and Lululemon leggings, are iconic fashion trends students at PRP are ready to see disappear. “These dudes can’t dress.” Senior Kyla Bradberry commented. If the style at PRP is mediocre at best, what makes an outfit fashionable? I sat down with multiple students at our very own school to discuss their insight on the topic of style. Senior Damarco Turner said, “ It’s all about proportions. I have a short torso, so I’ll wear a loose tee and straighter pants. Or if someone wants to wear a cropped tee, don’t wear it with skinny jeans.'' Clothing is about balance, and it is not solely about the way it fits, but also the color coordination. Senior JJ Jennings joined the conversation with his advice, “ Shoes make or break the fit, you gotta match the colors .” His sneaker collection consists of 12 pairs of sneakers, but he usually only wears 8 pairs. “Starting my collection was forced onto me by my parents. My dad is a sneakerhead, so since I can remember I’ve had a collection.” Jennings takes his shoes seriously; his care regimen for his sneakers includes wiping them down before he leaves the house. He also explains, “ If it’s a leather pair, I stuff them to keep the creases out.” Jennings expressed strict opinions about fashionable shoes, “My favorite brand is Jordans, but the most overhyped shoes gotta be dunks. Sorry! I don’t see the hype,” he said. Sneakerheads tend to base their outfits solely around the shoe, making it the focal point to show off their collection. Your favorite piece of clothing can easily be highlighted too, “ I usually wear bright colored tops and natural tone pants.” Turner explains. “Yeah, as soon as you came in all I saw was the bright red and green in your shirt.” Senior Kaitlyn Webb says. Youtube and Pinterest can cater directly to people who have an interest in fashion. When starting a Pinterest board, the app automatically generates common styles to enhance your inspiration. Making it perfect for any student to use in our digital age. After we graduate and our kids visit high school for the first time, we will be forced to remember our years spent at PRP. Comparing our style to the kids of the future will be inevitable. Trends will reign supreme. One week a piece of clothing is a nationwide phenomenon, the next a cringe fashion statement. Webb says, “ Be who you are, nobody does that.” PRP students express society as having one-sided opinions on fashion. This makes being comfortable with unoriginality a common mindset for most students, which can be frustrating for other fashion thumpers here at PRP. Aesthetic students are in every hall, but most students choose sweatpants over snug jeans in any situation, making choosing comfort over effort an especially easy decision. “Comfy clothes are just a vibe. I like to color-match my comfy outfits even though I have a closet full of stylish clothes.” Junior Roscoe Lee said. Junior Gracie Lee adds to the conversation stating, “I say comfort over fashion, because why does it matter? Who am I trying to impress?” Crocs, Birkenstocks, and Converse are most popular among our peers. Turner points out Webbs’ footwear. “ Her Birkens are fake, mine are real.” Webb responds, “ I live by fake brand shoes! These are my mom's from college.” Inspiration for fashion choices can range from budget to sentimental value. Look around your class, everyone is making an effort to fit in. Whether it be through their love of fashion, or love for relaxing. School is stressful nonetheless, having the opportunity to use creative outlets while at PRP is something that all of us want to achieve. Ultimately, comfort within yourself triumphs effortlessly.

Heat Waves

By: James Wetherell-Milburn

The heat waves in 2023 have been crazy. This last summer was reported to be the hottest summer ever recorded since 1880, with July third being the hottest day so far, the year is still only three-fourths of the way done. These heat waves are causing damage, and injuries to people all around the globe, In the U.S. alone it is confirmed that 39 deaths are confirmed to be heat-related with over 300 still being investigated for the cause of death. The abnormal temperatures have led to a "very extreme" likelihood of wildfires, according to the Fire Weather Index. The heatwaves were also occurring alongside some unusually heavy flooding.

This has also led to lots of restaurants closing early to keep workers safe, President Biden has asked the Department of Labor (DOL) to issue the first-ever Hazard Alert for heat. Mark's Feed Store on Dixie Highway had a worker pass out due to heat-related injuries and EMTs were called to the scene to take the worker to the hospital.

Ways to stay safe during these current events are to; Drink more water according to About 15.5 cups (3.7 liters) of fluids a day for men. About 11.5 cups (2.7 liters) of fluids a day for women, Stay where it is air-conditioned I understand that not everywhere has air conditioning but if you work in a kitchen or somewhere hot safety should be a top priority, wearing loose and light-colored clothing that reflect heat, keep a wet rag on hand to keep your skin moist, especially for people with health conditions that make sweating difficult, reduce your physical movement when you move you use energy when you use the energy you produce heat.

Literary Submissions

You + Me = Slipknot

By: Jaelynne N.

(CW: Suicidal Themes)

You make me hurt

Slipknot should work

You love me, you hate me

You’re doing it blatantly

Kissing my scars

Is making it hard

To hate you

This one sided love

I'm filling a tub with my tears

A slipknot should work

“You love me,” it hurts

I'm feeling like Kurt

A slipknot should work

The Struggles of Pleasing Society as a Woman

By: Harley Patterson

Being a woman means you have expectations from people around you.

You're supposed to be thin, but have meat on your bones.

You’re supposed to be thick, but not too thick because then you're too fat.

“Eat a burger, you need to gain some weight.” “ Go on a diet, you're too big.”

You're supposed to want to be healthy, but you can't SAY you want to be healthy.

You’re supposed to have money, but you can’t ask for any, and when you spend it on

something… “She got it with her daddy’s money.”

You have to be a leader but you're not allowed to be mean.

You have to keep watch on the behavior around you, but don't point it out because

then you're being accused of complaining.

You're supposed to wear makeup to look pretty, but too much makeup means you're a

catfish.

You're allowed to show skin, but too much skin means you’re “Seeking attention.” or “You're

asking for it.”

You’re supposed to stand out, but not too much because than you're taking up everyone else's

chance to shine.

When you think you're right, you're actually wrong and everything is really just your fault.

You can be smart and get good grades, but when you talk about it you're a “nerd.”

You're supposed to have ideas, but you can't speak your mind because with one wrong word

or stutter, you're being laughed at.

Women are supposed to cook, clean, and take care of the kids at home, but then you’re

qualified as JUST a “housewife.”

Men say women are supposed to be in the kitchen, since the beginning of time, that has

always been OUR standard.

You're supposed to show your love to your spouse, but don't do too much because than

you're being too clingy.

We're supposed to stand up for ourselves, but learn when to keep our mouths shut.

Women are held to the standard of, “Be a lady,” but “Be tough.”

Society is mean and people have lost track of what it means to be supportive, to have

each other's back.

Your voice is important,

Your body is beautiful,

You are smart,

AND

You can stand out!

Don't let society control who you are, what you do, or how you do it!

Have an amazing day!

How to be a Human Being

By: Maddie Yates

How does a human being be…a human being? Is there this unspoken guide that I’m supposed to read and follow when I reach a certain age? I feel like I missed out on learning basic skills. Not, like, talking or walking. Hearing and eating. Reading and writing. No, more skills that align with the emotional prowess of being a human being.

I think I might be going mad, which is impossible because I’m only seventeen. Getting older is scary and exciting. I don’t want to die. Nobody who has a zest for life wants to die. But I won’t die for a long time. Maybe. Then there’s the fear of randomly dying one day. My life could end on any given day at any given time.

Those fears are all human nature fears.

Death = Humanity.

Or maybe that’s not true and I am just mad. Insane mad, not angry mad. Although, I am angry mad. Mad at the world and an infinitesimal amount of people in it. There are a few who have hurt me. Ripped my heart out and watched me bleed. I don’t know if they enjoyed watching me bleed, but they stayed. I wonder if it’s the macaw spectacle of watching something they hurt bleed that kept them around.

Now I’m thinking it probably was a spectacle. It always is, isn’t it? Everytime I get hurt and brutally stabbed in the back it is a raw and gut-wrenching show. Sometimes, I wish I could watch it as an outsider. But I can’t, for I AM the show. I am the one you watch and ridicule. Come see the shoulder padded girl get her heart torn to shreds by another person who wanted to love her first!

Sorry for that last line, that doesn’t pertain to being a human being. Or does it?

Love = Humanity.

That equation feels right. It at least feels like I’m getting somewhere with the query “How to be a Human Being.” Because life is all about love, isn’t it? I mean, I tend to make my life about love. I try to romanticize the mundane. And that brings me to say that when I say “love,” I mean all types of love. Not just the giggly romantic types.

Giggly romance serves no purpose to me personally. As much as I love being in love, I tend to love being alone more. Alone with my own thoughts. How lovely. Loneliness is the loveliest thing I’ve ever experienced. I have nobody to care for when I’m alone. I have nobody plaguing my thoughts when I’m alone. I have only myself to care for, so life is easier.

Paying homage to myself is my favorite thing to do. I am a spectacle. Even if I don’t know how to be a human being, I know how to be myself. I’m so happy I know who I am. I’m never changing, not for anybody or anything. I am never ever getting rid of what I have already created, because I have created a wonderful human being.

And another thing!

My mother did not create me. I created myself. That’s the whole statement. Nothing more to add to that one.

Back to the point though: How to be a Human Being. I think the equation, at its core, should be this: Love x Death = Humanity. When you put those two together, you get a human who can live. Because they still have their own personality, but they also have basic human functions.

Finally, this was a string of thoughts written at three in the morning. Sorry if it didn’t make sense.

Issue 1 - August, 2023

Editor's Note

Well, this has certainly been a start to a school-year. The first thing I’d like to say is that I feel so bad for my class, the class of 2024. Our freshman year was non-existent, and now our senior year is off to a semi-similar start. However with all that out of the way and ignored, welcome back panthers! The PRP Paw Print is starting off strong; having no school won’t hold us back from writing and sharing our voices. I’d also like to make it a point to say how excited and proud I am to be able to call myself the 2023-2024 school year’s Editor-In-Chief of the Paw Print! Thank you for having me and reading our words, it means a lot. It’s wonderful to be back.

-Maddie Yates

JCPS's Big Bus Failure

By: James Wetherell-Milburn

On August ninth the 23-24 school year began for JCPS and the day seemed to go okay a little shaky in the morning due to some late buses, some getting there as late as thirty minutes into the first period. But this was a small laugh compared to what happened that same afternoon. At 3:20 students were released from class to go and wait for their buses to come pick them up. Little did the students know that most of the buses would end up showing up fifty minutes to five and a half hours later than they were told. With the last kid off of the last JCPS bus at 9:58. This has called for Dr. Pollio to cancel school for August tenth, and August eleventh to review what went wrong, to fix and redo all the bus routes to be more efficient, and to practice these changes.

The events that happened affected everyone including myself, I was told I would be home by 4:23 but that wasn’t right. I ended up getting home at 4:50, which is a big deal because of my job. If I had work that day I wouldn’t have made it to work on time and probably could have gotten penalized for it. Now I have to figure out how I’m going to make it to work on time or if I can even work on the weekdays anymore because of this situation. Even on the bus finder website, they had me listed for bus 1709 in the morning but that was the wrong bus number I was picked up by a completely different than 1709 I know it was the mistake on the bus finder half because the bus showed up at my stop at the time it said it would show up and then took me to the correct school.

People are also taking to social media to talk about their experience; a wife of a JCPS bus driver explains that the drivers spent August 1st in a cafeteria for 7 hours for “orientation” where drivers were lectured especially about how they are replaceable. From August ninth to the eleventh they were scheduled to meetings twice a day where they spent time listening to the same appreciation lecture over and over when they could have been out practicing routes. When the drivers were not in these meetings they were to be out practicing their routes the best they could but some couldn’t even make it out of the compound because they were too busy writing down their routes because of the lack of directions they were provided; they were only given the listed names of the stops nothing else no left or right or where to go they were expected to figure out this information on their own. A lot of drivers easily got lost due to not being familiar with the areas they were put in and because of the lack of directions given, and some drivers were even tasked with driving for six or more schools.

Another couple reported seeing a young Hispanic boy who goes to Fern Creek Elementary being dropped on the corner of the street at Bardstown Road at 7:30 in the evening. The couple went to aid the boy and found that this was not his stop. They contacted the numbers on the boy's bus tag and managed to get into contact with a school official where they found the boy's mother was already at the school trying to find her missing child. The mother and a school official showed up at the spot the boy was dropped off to pick up the child. It was found the school had placed the wrong stop on his tag and the driver was informed to bring him back to the school but rather than bringing the kid to the school the driver dropped him off at the corner and just drove off. The school official told the parent and couple that this event will be handled.

Literary Submissions

Loveable, at Last

By: April Mercer

ANWYLL

How can a man even welcome love when they've long accepted, though it may not be true for others, or for you, that it is blurred into a fine line? A fine line that is between love and hatred? I do not particularly know if I wish to relearn love, though I realize now that it had been an illusion. Empty words rooted from my home life. I am disciplining you for trivial, nonsensical things so you are prepared for the real world - without me. I’ve never felt so conflicted as I’d been then. And I think: how could I ever go a day without loathing or praying? Praying for love and praying it away all the same?

His lover, Jelani, stays utterly silent, save for the sound of their ragged breaths, the heartbeat in their chest, beating out of it. The tapping of their foot against the floor of the home; of their fingers tapping against the kitchen table, which is the mere thing that separates the two.

ANWYLL

You see, though? Do you see how messed up I am, my love? My lows make up the entirety of my life. Of who I am. I’m not a shell of who I once was, but instead of someone I have never been able to become, nonetheless evolve into.

Upon hearing the weight of his words, Jelani stands but does not make any further movement toward Wyll, who is on the brink of tears (he very clearly makes it a point to blink each one away).

ANWYLL

And yes, I am my sadness, Lani. And my grief, and my anger. I am my emotions. It’s all I’ve ever really known to do.

Jelani smiles gloomily, hoping it helped to get it all out. They fiddle with their anxiety ring for a moment, then gesture for a hug. Anwyll immediately melts into them.

JELANI

I forgive you. I do not need to, because you have not been at fault at any point in time, but I do. Without a doubt, I’ve always had.

Celestial Love

By: April Mercer

Scenery is just so wonderful. It can appeal to absolutely anyone. One look, one glance can evoke an emotion nobody will ever quite be able to understand. It can touch your soul and hit you where it hurts. It can, and will, go deep into your mind and pick apart something you never knew was possible. It will strip you down to your bones. Your core. Your soul.

Memories perpetuate the air every second of the day, looming above. Like a thundercloud. Blink and you'll miss it. You'll miss the way the stars twinkle and dance, having the time of their lives while the only thing you are capable of is watching. And watch the way they live without you. Die without you.

Yet you love them, so you stargaze and hope one day, preferably as soon as possible, you reach them. You are remembered and loved, and someone strikes you as untouchable. Out of their league, perhaps. They are awestruck.

You seem to forget you are a star as well. Someone will look at you and feel love. Such emotion they feel is unworldly. Supernatural. Magic.

And you remember love is magical. You are no longer withered, though you aren't in the state of blooming.

Yet.

The moon peeks through the trees, admiring your beauty before it is to be replaced by the sun. It knows its worth, but not the full extent of it.

You don't either. You may think that you are not worthy. You may insist. Who could ever love me?

Me, me.

Always. I have always loved you.

The next time the moon catches your attention; the next time the stars either shine so brightly or exude warm chaos (yellow glow), remember: starry-eyed. Remember: scattered stardust, and gold. Remember: you're the serene scenery I'll forever deem aesthetic.

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