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BEN LOMOND APRIL 2026 SPIRIT MAGAZINE

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READY TO WRAP UP ANOTHER YEAR (And yes, that’s a hot-dog smoothie in the blender!)

ASK A COP

The funny, stupid antics of the criminal mind.....4

FCCLA

Students STAR at region and state...........................5

ART DEPARTMENT

Art students keeping busy this spring..................... 6

ON THE COVER: As part of a fundraising campaign for the Ben Lomond High School Special Education program, students recently duct-taped Principal Velden Wardle to a pole inside the school.

BLACK HISTORY

Honoring the past, empowering the future: Black History Program 2026................ 8

SPED FUNDRAISER

Fundraiser earns both money and funny............. 10

LIA EVENTS

LIA hosting fundraisers to support program......12

PROM ADVANCE

Better start lining up your prom date.................. 13

Khloe Payne and Brooklyn Richey. Photo Courtesy BL Softball

ASK A COP

THE FUNNY, STUPID ANTICS OF THE CRIMINAL MIND

Last month, you guys asked some pretty tough questions. This month, I thought we’d make it a little lighter. Spring is here, and I can tell many of you have “Senioritis.” So let’s take it down a notch, shall we?

Q: What’s something funny that’s happened to you while being a police officer?

A: Well, I’ve had many funny things happen in front of me, and to me in my career. Here’s a special one:

While serving a search warrant inside a home for some stolen train parts, I was in the suspects attic removing boxes of stolen toy trains. I slipped and fell backwards through the ceiling joists. I fell through the ceiling and (luckily?) landed on a giant pile of “tweaker” underwear and clothes. (Mostly underwear.) “Tweaker” is a term of endearment for a meth addict, BTW.

Q: Wow, that’s crazy! How about telling us an example of something stupid

you saw or experienced?

A: Again, I’ve seen many stupid things. Usually carried out by people who are, well … not smart. (I try not to call people stupid, but sometimes they make it too easy.) Here’s an example:

When I was on patrol one time, I got a call to take a theft report from a woman. I arrived and asked what she wanted to report had been stolen. She didn’t want to tell me. I explained that it’s kind of impossible to take a theft report without reporting something as stolen.

She reluctantly told me that her “friend” had stolen her marijuana plants she was growing. This was before medical marijuana was even a thing, so I just stared at her and said, “Are you sure that’s what you want to report?” She was sure. I told her that I would begin a theft investigation, right after I finished my investigation into her grow operation. Poor lady went to jail, AND had her weed stolen! You can’t make this stuff up folks. Maybe drugs

make you dumber? Let’s not find out, mmm-kay?

Q: Alright, give us one more good story for kicks and giggles?

A: Ok, since you’re such a good audience. This one’s from my patrol days as well. I got a call of a naked man fighting a dumpster in front of the old Deseret Industries on Washington Boulevard. Yes, you read that correctly. I arrived and, sure

enough, a naked man was beating up a dumpster. We tend to frown on this sort of thing, so I thought I better investigate.

Upon seeing me, the man began running down the boulevard. My instinct was to tackle him. (See? Sometimes I make dumb decisions too, kids.) Anyways … that poor, high, naked guy had soooo much road rash on the front of his body. I ALMOST felt bad taking him to jail.

FCCLA

FCCLA students recently competed in Region and State STAR events, earning distinction in several categories.

FCCLA, or Family, Career and Community Leaders of America, is a national organization for students in Family and Consumer Sciences programs in high schools. STAR stands for Students Taking Action

with Recognition.

FCS teachers Mackenzie Thompson and Julie Bracken took four students to the Region competition on Feb. 11. Those students were Jaeleen Arias, Melanie Maldonado, Lillyaunna Schaeffer, and Delilah De Leon. Jaeleen competed in the Teaching Strategies event and earned a silver ribbon. Mela-

STUDENTS STAR AT REGION AND STATE

nie competed in Interior Design and came away with a bronze ribbon. Lillyaunna took on the Early Childhood Education event and won a silver ribbon.

Ms. Thompson said Jaeleen and Lillyaunna both advanced to the State competition on March 24, where their hard work earned them silver medals in their respective categories.

ART STUDENTS KEEPING BUSY THIS SPRING

If, as the saying goes, “Art imitates life,” then life is pretty darn busy for the school’s art students right now.

The Ben Lomond High School art department has “so much awesomeness happening” this spring, according to art teacher right now, according to art teacher Erica Lyon.

For starters, BL’s Art 1030 students recently hung their pieces for the Empathy Art Show at Ogden’s Union Station. In the exhibition, “students explore the intersection of narrative and visual expression,” according to an exhibit statement.

Artists began by using writing to document a personal or shared struggle, past or current. These words were used “as their initial bridge to empathy.” The students then used a “feelings wheel” to identify specific emotions involved, selecting colors to represent feelings and incorporating contrasting hues to illustrate the complex flow of emotions that accompany challenging times. After developing five conceptual sketches, each student selected the composition that most powerfully communicated their story.

In addition, just before Spring Break students took their Festival of Arts (Iron Horse for Art) to the Eccles Community Art Center in Ogden. The exhibition, sponsored by Ogden School District, runs through April 25 at the center.

A total of 18 Ben Lomond art students also recently participated in the Pet Portrait Contest at the Eccles Community Art Center, and 15 B.L. students showed pieces in the Foods Contest at Union Station.

And to top it all off, B.L. student Hailey Compton won the “I Voted in Weber County” sticker design contest.

ART DEPARTMENT

BLACK HISTORY

HONORING THE PAST, EMPOWERING THE FUTURE: BLACK HISTORY PROGRAM 2026

Special to BL Spirit

On Feb. 28, students, families, and community members gathered for an unforgettable evening celebrating Black history, culture, and excellence. Hosted by the Urban Student Alliance (USA) at Ben Lomond High School, the program was more than just an event — it was a powerful reminder of resilience, unity, and the importance of understanding our shared history.

This year’s celebration was especially meaningful, as it took place at the historic Marshall White Recreation Center. The center is named after Dr./Detective Marshall N. White, the first Black man to serve in the

Ogden police department. He tragically lost his life in the line of duty. Since the newly renovated recreation center re-opened in May 2025, the Urban Student Alliance has been proud to be the first group to host a Black History Program in this powerful and symbolic space.

Originally founded as the Black Student Union in 2021, the Ben Lomond organization has since evolved into the Urban Student Alliance to reflect its mission of inclusivity and connection. While rooted in Black history and culture, USA welcomes students of all backgrounds who are committed to learning, growing, and

supporting one another.

The Black History Program featured a variety of performances and presentations that brought that history to life. One of the highlights was a moving reenactment of Elizabeth Freeman, performed by Cari Bartholomew, capturing the courage of a woman who challenged slavery and helped pave the way for justice. Each student also participated by reading a meaningful quote from Black history or from influential figures, creating a powerful collective voice that echoed throughout the room.

Students from Ben Lomond High School also participated in a fashion show.

The evening’s keynote speaker, Utah State Board of Education member Rod Hall, shared an inspiring message. He reminded students that the life they are living right now is shaping the life they will live tomorrow — brick by brick — with faith, planning, and determination.

Adding energy and cultural pride to the evening was a vibrant performance by Lil Ogden Way, whose dance celebrated heritage and expression. Guests also enjoyed a delicious Southern soul food dinner, bringing a sense of warmth, tradition, and community to the celebration.

A standout moment of the evening came from USA adviser/director Delores Green, who shared heartfelt words with the students. She expressed how much each student meant to her and emphasized that the legacy they have built together will remain in their hearts forever. She acknowledged the many challenges faced throughout the school year — challenges she witnessed firsthand — but praised the students for continuing to push forward. She reminded them, “That’s what warriors do.”

More than anything, the Black History Program was about empowerment. It highlighted the strength and bril-

liance of students who continue to rise above challenges while maintaining strong academic achievement and leadership. It also reminded everyone in attendance that Black history is not just a moment in time — it is a living, evolving story that continues to shape the world today.

As the program came to a close, one message stood clear: When students are given a platform, they don’t just perform — they lead, inspire, and create change. The Urban Student Alliance is not just a club; it is a movement built on unity, purpose, and the belief that every student belongs.

SPED

Photos by Emre Neville
Photos by Emre Neville

SPED FUNDRAISER FUNDRAISER EARNS BOTH MONEY AND FUNNY

Students and staff recently came together to support fellow students in a Special Education program fundraiser focused on inclusion within Ben Lomond High School.

All students were encouraged to participate and support the program and message of support and recognition. Through the efforts of the school community, the fundraising goal was successfully met, showing strong participation and enthusiasm from those involved.

Beyond the money, the event spread a message of inclusion and brought students together for a shared purpose. It highlighted how small actions can make a big difference in building a more supportive and connected school environment.

At the culminating event, teacher/organizer Ashton Gualtier expressed gratitude to all who supported and contributed to the fundraiser.

Because the fundraising goal was met, at that final event students were permitted to ducttape Principal Velden Wardle to a pole inside the school. Joining him at the gentle-humiliation-for-a-good-cause lunchtime event, assistant principals Ben Hamblin, Joni Slater, and Jeff Martinez also each completed a challenge. A follicle-challenged Mr. Hamblin sported a curly wig for the week, Ms. Slater temporarily dyed her hair, and Mr. Martinez drank a “delicious” hot-dog smoothie.

Administrators also earned a pie in the face for their troubles.

LIA EVENTS

LIA HOSTING FUNDRAISERS TO SUPPORT PROGRAM

The Latinos in Action program is offering two fundraising events in April.

First up is the Ben Lomond High School Latinos in Action Swap Meet. The swap meet will be held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, April 11, in the

high school’s courtyard on the north side of the school (where the annual block party is held). For information or to become a vendor, call 801-737-7988.

Then, on Tuesday, April 14, the BLHS Latinos in Action Chick-fil-A Fundraiser is planned for 5 p.m. to 8

p.m. in the restaurant at 1120 Washington Blvd., Ogden. Customers who mention “LIA” or “Latinos in Action” at checkout will have a portion of their purchase donated to the school’s LIA program. They can also choose to leave cash tips, which go directly to the program.

PROM ADVANCE

BETTER START LINING UP YOUR PROM DATE

Prom is almost here!

Ben Lomond High School’s long-awaited annual dance is scheduled for Saturday, May 2, at the Marriott Hotel in downtown Ogden. The prom will run from 7 p.m to 10 p.m.

Tickets will be available at the B.L. bookstore. Cost is $20 for a single’s ticket and $30 for a couple’s ticket.

Students who plan to bring a student from another school must fill out a guest form, available in the

main office.

Students are reminded to dress appropriately for the dance.

Also, please remember to have fun and be safe!

Ben Lomond

HOT TAKES

This month for HOT TAKES, we interviewed 40 students on whether they agree or disagree with the following statements …

EASTER CANDY IS BETTER THAN HALLOWEEN CANDY

Halloween is known for getting large quantities of candy. Easter is known more for its religious background and activities geared towards kids – like Easter egg hunts, dying eggs, and receiving Easter baskets. However, Easter has candy exclusive to the holiday, so is Easter candy better than Halloween candy?

Disagree: 24

APRIL IS THE HARDEST MONTH OF SCHOOL

April can be a hard month for many, especially due to a lack of breaks, and the end of the year being so close. April also starts putting stress on seniors as they prepare for graduation and life after.

52.5% of students said April isn’t the hardest month of school, while 47.5% said it is the hardest. Seniors mainly said they agreed, while juniors and sophomores said they disagreed. Senior Patton Brun, who agreed, said, “April is horrendous. Everyone’s tired, senioritis is in full swing, and there are no more breaks to look forward to. #abolishApril.”

Agree: 16

The favorite, at 60% of student’s picks, was Halloween candy. Easter candy had 40% of student’s picks. While people who picked Easter candy gushed over the mini Cadbury eggs, robin’s eggs, and marshmallow Peeps, those who chose Halloween candy said the overall culture of Halloween was better than Easter.

mallow Peeps, those who chose

TAKES

Disagree: 21 Agree: 19

AGREE OR DISAGREE?

WE SHOULDN’T HAVE DAYLIGHT SAVINGS

Spring forward. Fall back. While many students might enjoy that extra hour of sleep in the fall, in the spring, many dread losing a precious hour of sleep. However, should we get rid of daylight savings entirely?

77.5% of students disagreed and said we should have daylight savings. While it may be unfortunate that we lose an hour of sleep, many students like the change in light and think it’s necessary. 22.5% of students agreed, saying we shouldn’t have daylight savings. Senior Khloe Payne, who disagreed, said, “It happens anyways.”

Disagree: 31 Agree: 9

C A L E N

EASTER

Assistant Principals Week School Librarians Day Girls Golf at El Monte, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Girls Golf at Logan River, noon-6 p.m.

Girls Golf at Mt. Ogden, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Region Girls Golf at Glen Eagle, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

Baseball vs. Logan, 3:30 p.m.

Softball vs. Logan, 3:30 p.m.

Boys Volleyball vs. Logan, 6 p.m. Track

Tennis vs. Morgan, 3:30 p.m.

Baseball at Grantsville, 3:30 p.m.

Soccer vs. Ogden, 3:30 p.m.

Softball at Grantsville, 3:30 p.m.

Boys Volleyball at Ogden, 6 p.m.

Region Girls Golf at Schneiter’s Bluff, noon-6 p.m.

Soccer at Grantsville, 2:30 p.m.

Baseball vs. Morgan, 3:30 p.m.

Boys Volleyball vs. Morgan, 6 p.m. Administrative Region Eagle, Track Softball (Senior

Softball vs. Morgan, 3:30 p.m.

Tennis at Grantsville, 3:30 p.m.

7 14 21 28 27 20 13 6 5 12 19 26

Track at Logan, 3 p.m.

Baseball at Providence Hall, 3:30 p.m.

Tennis vs. Ogden, 3:30 p.m.

SPRING BREAK! school)

APRIL FOOL’S DAY

SPRING BREAK! (No school)

Baseball at Syracuse, 3:30 p.m.

SPRING BREAK! (No school)

SPRING BREAK! (No school)

Track at Ben Lomond, 3 p.m.

Bonnie Lassie Clinics, 5-7

15 8

Aspire+ Testing (10th graders)

Girls Golf at Round Valley, a.m.-3 p.m.

Track at Ogden, 3 p.m.

Tennis at Grantsville, p.m.

Administrative Assistant Day Region Girls Golf at Glen Eagle, noon-6 p.m.

Track at Ben Lomond, 3 p.m.

Softball vs. North Summit (Senior Night), 3:30 p.m.

EARTH DAY

Boys Volleyball at Northridge, p.m.

Junior High Track at Ben Lomond, 3 p.m.

Baseball vs. Ogden, 3:30 p.m.

Soccer at Morgan, 3:30 p.m.

Softball vs. Ogden, 3:30 p.m.

Tennis at Ogden, 3:30 p.m.

Bonnie Lassie Tryouts, 5-7 p.m.

HOSA at Davis Conference Center, 10:45 a.m.-8 p.m.

Soccer vs. Logan, 3:30 p.m.

Tennis vs. Logan, 3:30 p.m.

Boys Volleyball vs. Grantsville, 6 p.m.

Theater: “The 39 Steps,” 7 p.m.

JROTC Dining Night, 4-5:30 p.m.

Junior High Track, 3 p.m.

Softball at Logan, 3:30 p.m.

Tennis at Morgan, 3:30 p.m.

Baseball at Logan, 5:30 p.m.

Boys Volleyball at Logan, 6 p.m.

JROTC at swimming pool, 7:45 a.m.

Student of the Month, 7 a.m. State Mariachi

HOSA at Davis Conference Center, 7 a.m.-6 p.m.

Theater: “The 39 Steps,” 7 p.m.

LIA Swap Meet, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

Debate Tournament, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

JROTC at Taylorsville (archery competition), 8 a.m.-2 p.m.

Theater: “The 39 Steps,” 7 p.m.

CUPCAKE WARS

‘CUPCAKE WARS’ RETURNS TO A KITCHEN NEAR YOU

The Baking and Pastry classes at Ben Lomond High School held their traditional Cupcake Wars at the end of March.

A total of 15 “kitchens” competed in two class periods for bragging rights in the areas of flavor, presentation and decoration techniques.

Winners in the B3 class were Crystal Ruiz, Abigail Paxton, and Kimberly Galvan. In the B5 class, victors were Vincent Alonge, Jazmin Luna, Mia Martinez Siordia, Angela Reyes Gonzalez, and Kima Williams.

Teacher Rebecca LeDuc calls the Baking and Pastry class “a hands-on fun class where you get to be creative

and learn some amazing baking and pastry techniques and recipes.” Students make baked goods multiple times a week in the class. Ms. LeDuc encourages students to sign up for the class in the coming year.

After all, how many other classes offer delicious assignments that you get to eat after they’re graded?

SKILLSUSA

SKILLSUSA STUDENTS COMPETE IN TECH CATEGORIES

On March 26-27, Ben Lomond High School’s SkillsUSA chapter took their abilities to Salt Lake City to compete across various technical categories.

SkillsUSA is a workforce development organization for students, designed to empower students to become skilled professionals, career-ready leaders, and responsible community members.

The event featured numerous categories, from Additive Manufacturing to Video Productions.

B.L. students Cameron Miller and Emre Neville represented in the additive manufacturing category using 3D printing technology to solve real world problems. Meanwhile Chris Neelley and Kamron Platts brought their ideas to life through video productions showcasing their creative ideas through the camera.

In the Job Skill Demonstration A category, Elias

Alvarez and Ivan Silva Izaguirre delivered impressive presentations, with Ivan earning first place.

Norah Keller competed in the Job Skill Demonstration Open category, showing her knowledge of crochet, while Wolph Stanger competed in the unique and creative category of Pin Design.

Guiding and watching over the group were teachers/advisors Luke Mandleco, Matt Williams, and Gary White, whose support helped shape the students’ preparation and success in the event.

The events were hosted at Utah Valley University and Salt Lake Community College, giving students the opportunity to tour the campuses and get a glimpse into future possibilities.

As the group returned that Friday night, students brought not only their accomplishments but also their passion, ready to continue what they’ve learned and take their skills further.

Inside of the SLCC building. Photo by Wolph Stranger

Ivan Silva Izaguirre and Matt Williams showing off gold.

Photo by Chris Neelley
Gabe White and Chris Neelley.
Photo by Wolph Stranger
Kamron Platts holding a taxidermied ferret.
Photo by Wolph Stranger
Emre Neville, Norah Keller, Chris Neelley and Kamron Platts at SLCC.
Photo by Chris Neelley
Emre Neville, Norah Keller, Kamron Platts and Chris Neelley at awards.
Photo by Emre Neville
SLCC award ceremony.
Photo by Emre Neville

SOFTBALL

BEN LOMOND SOFTBALL IN FULL SWING

In March, the Ben Lomond softball team traveled down to St. George to compete in a tournament. Competing March 12-14, the team played five games – two on Friday, three on Saturday. The Scots played teams from Utah, Nevada, and Idaho.

Jamie Phippen explained that the tournament is not only a great way to get five preseason games in, if the weather permits, but also a great way to have a team bonding experience. The team stays in a house with a pool and has a lot of down time between games.

This year’s softball team is relatively new. There isn’t a lot of experience on the team. However, throughout the games the team had a lot of opportunities to expand their abilities.

“I think we have plenty of room to grow, and I feel like I saw that growth every game,” Coach Phippen explained.

Coach Phippen talked about the overall turnout of the tournament and said, “I feel like we saw personal wins and team wins together while we were down there.”

Many of the players commented on their favorite part of the trip. Senior

Aliyah Gonzalez couldn’t pick between two things. She enjoyed playing ping-pong with the other seniors, and losing her nose piercing because she sneezed and it fell out. It fell out on the way down to St. George at a gas station, but luckily, she found it.

Senior Khloe Payne also chose two moments as the highlights of her trip. She said spending time at the pool, and running through the house looking for her bed, were her favorite parts. Each year, the coaches choose the room arrangements and place cards on each bed with the player’s name on them. Once all the names are placed, the girls are free to go find their room, and it can be quite the scavenger hunt.

Junior Araceli Gallegos also said the pool was the highlight of her trip. Breannah Lamere-Alvarado, Pauline Sauvanet, and Ailin Gonzalez all chose going out and eating as the highlight of their trip, specifically when the team went and got Zeppe’s Italian Ice & Frozen Custard.

In the girls’ free time, they were able to do a lot. Sophomore Bostyn Gooda said the karaoke and dance party the girls had was her favorite part of the trip.

All the players and coaches brought

four quarters to play the game: Left, Right, Center. Senior Abigail Ha’o said this game was her favorite part of the trip.

During one of the games, Sophomore Brooklynn Ferrin was playing catcher when the batter hit the ball, and it popped right up behind her. Brooklynn dove for the ball and caught it, getting the out, and causing the entire team to go crazy. She said this play was the highlight of her trip.

“The highlight of the trip for me is just seeing everybody,” Coach Phippen said. “I mean, obviously softball should be the highlight, but it’s actually the downtime, and seeing everybody grow, which then transfers on to the softball field throughout the season.”

She then explained that this trip is so important for that reason. The bonding the girls have done is irreplaceable and so valuable.

Coach Phippen invites everyone to come out and support the softball team.

“Whether we win or lose, knowing that they have their teachers and their fellow students who are watching them is always fun for them. So please come watch!”

Araceli Gallegos pitching.
Photo Courtesy BL Softball
Ailin Gonzalez, Breannah Lamere-Alvarado, Brooklynn Ferrin, McKynlee Cavalli, Bostyn Gooda, and Araceli Gallegos.
Photo Courtesy BL Softball
Breannah Lamere-Alvarado, Bostyn Gooda, and Ailin Gonzalez.
Photo Courtesy BL Softball
Araceli Gallegos pitching.
Photo Courtesy BL Softball
Emma Davis and Makayla Brown.
Photo Courtesy Makayla Brown
The team warming up before a game.
Photo Courtesy BL Softball
Breannah Lamere-Alvarado pitching.
Photo Courtesy BL Softball
Breannah Lamere-Alvarado pitching.
Photo Courtesy BL Softball
Photo Courtesy Makayla Brown
Aliyah Gonzalez on 3rd base.
Photo Courtesy BL Softball
Khloe Payne, Brooklyn Richey and Aliyah Gonzalez.
Photo Courtesy BL Softball
Brooklynn Ferrin catching.
Photo Courtesy BL Softball
After a meeting on the pitching mound.
Photo Courtesy BL Softball
Breannah Lamere-Alvarado and McKynlee Cavalli,.
Photo Courtesy BL Softball

TEACHER FEATURE

At Ben Lomond High School, in Room E226, you will find Mr. Filippo Castronovo. Mr. Castronovo has been a science teacher at Ben Lomond for four years. He helps run the chess club, and he is also a sports coach for the swim and boys tennis teams.

When asked about what his favorite part of teaching is, he said, “My favorite part of teaching is June and July.”

Mr. Castronovo is always making jokes and trying his best to make school an enjoyable experience for everyone. On a more serious note, he talked about how he enjoys seeing kids perform labs in his science classes and learn about new things.

When asked about what makes Mr. Castronovo a great teacher, Mr. Rob Garrett, the head of the science department, commented about how Mr. Castronovo cares a lot about the kids he teaches.

“I think he loves being a teacher,” said Mr. Rob, “Mr. Castronovo is creative with his labs and is always engaging with students.”

Mr. Castronovo has had a profound impact on the school and community through his actions as a teacher and as a coach.

Two students, Rames Photrian and

Pauline Sauvanet, like how involved Mr. Castronovo is as both a coach and a teacher.

“I think he’s [engaged] with his players,” Pauline said “He [takes] care of his players.”

Rames said he believes Mr. Castronovo is a great coach because he always

cheers on his athletes and gives them the coaching and encouragement that they need.

Mr. Castronovo is committed to the betterment of the students he teaches. “He wants to give students a part of himself.” explained Mr. Rob. “What he enjoys doing, what he’s good at, he wants [students] to also enjoy.”

THE 39 STEPS

‘STEP’ INTO THIS B.L. THEATER MYSTERY/COMEDY

The Ben Lomond High School theater department will be presenting the comedic stage play “The 39 Steps” in April.

“The 39 Steps” is all about the excitement of the unknown. It follows Richard Hannay, an ordinary man who suddenly gets pulled into a dangerous spy plot after meeting a mysterious woman named Annabella Schmidt. Things spiral quickly, and before long he’s running across the Scottish moors, trying to clear his name. Along the way, he teams up with Pamela. The play is a parody of the 1935 Alfred Hitchcock film by the same name.

What really makes this show special isn’t just the story, it’s how it’s told. With only a handful of actors playing dozens of characters, the whole production feels like controlled chaos in the best way. Characters change in seconds, scenes shift instantly, and the actors lean into the absurdity, often getting the audience in on the joke.

A couple of chairs might suddenly become a train, or a ladder turns into a bridge. It’s simple and creative.

At its core, The 39 Steps is a mix of mystery and comedy. It’s quick, it’s clever, and it’s the kind of show that keeps you laughing.

“The 39 Steps” will run April 16-18 at 7 p.m. Admission is $2.

The B.L. production is directed by Mello Leslie and Savannah Haacke.

SPRING HAS SPRUNG SPRING FEVER

Spring is here! Spring is the time of year when everything comes back to life after winter. The weather gets warmer, trees get their leaves, and the snow on the mountains starts to melt.

With spring comes the last quarter of the school year. The end of the school year is so close, and that brings lots of new opportunities.

For many people, spring is a time of renewal and rejuvenation. Adrian Villezcas, a senior, and Angel Rojas Altamirano, a sophomore, explained how they enjoy spring because the weather gets warmer and it becomes more enjoyable to be outside.

“It’s starting to get to that time where you can, you know, be outside a lot more and not be cold,” explained Adrian.

Angel commented how, with spring, you “can go outside, you know, and enjoy just, like, the scenery and the weather.”

Spring is a time when we can enjoy nature and the world around us. It can be an opportunity to relax and recharge from the dark days of winter prior. The weather generally gets warmer and it becomes more comfortable to be outside.

However, for some people the chaotic spring weather can be a source of irritation. Tania Lara and Destiny Reyes Gonzalez, both juniors, explained how the crazy weather in the spring can sometimes inter-

fere with plans and events.

“The weather can change a lot, like one day it could be really sunny and then the next can be, like, really rainy” Destiny said. “It can intervene with the plans you make for the day.”

However you prefer your weather, spring can sometimes be a time for burnout and procrastination. For many, the nice weather and the closeness of the end of the school year can lead them to contract what many call “Senioritis.” It can become very hard to find motivation to get school work done and stay on top of assignments.

For Adrian, he feels like sometimes it can be hard to stay focused and get work done. However, he thinks that he can get past it by focusing on what needs to be done and pushing through to the end of the year.

“For me, like, since I’m at the final, I’m at the finish line for high school, I just kind of push through,” he said. “Seeing [as] I’m almost there… [I] might as well lock in and do the best I can.”

However you feel about spring – whether it is a time of getting stuff done and enjoying the nice weather or a time where you easily get distracted – remember that just as fast as spring comes it will leave. So, enjoy it the best you can while still making sure you don’t fall behind in school.

Hold on, the school year is almost over. You can do this!

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