Parkway Central Corral October Issue

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WARS Outlet malls offer new opportunities p. 12

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CORRALC Parkway Central High School 369 N. Woods Mill Road Chesterfield, MO 63017 314-415-7978 Volume 58, Issue 1

District gets yearly report card p. 7 Football player commits to Notre Dame p. 20

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OCT. 2, 2013

“I get ridiculed, teased, and receive a lot of smart aleck comments. One time someone asked me, ‘When does the circus start?’”

- Mr. Tom Sellers

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9 Sophomore Bharata Natyam

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Homecoming highlights 4

is one of four from her Dances of India School to perform her talent, Indian dancing, at a showcase at Chaminade.

10 Chemistry and math aides

defy the stereotype of blow-off office aide classes by tutoring or helping teachers.

AP Art murals 10

14 The new One Direction film

and Imagine Dragons concert satisfy viewers.

18 GSA plans the fall summit that

will host up to 150 members from all over the state.

Burrito battle 16 23 Varsity girls volleyball adjusts

to changes among team.

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Oct. 2, 2013

Fall sports numbers 24

Counseling department institutes change Jason Sobelman Editor in Chief

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ith the departure of two counselors, the counseling department and administration decided to restructure their design to better support the student body. After the announcement that Mr. Ryan Connors and Mr. Paul Milonas would not be returning, administrators began to think about how they could improve counseling support for students.

“Mr. Milonas always wanted to work at Fern Ridge and when the opportunity presented itself, we knew he would apply,” assistant principal Dr. Sarah Power said. “Regarding Mr. Connors, his whole family is in Indiana, and when the opportunity arose to transfer, it was a no-brainer.”

The administrators decided upon a new plan that required a change. The arrangement included moving Mrs. Nana Prange’s job to focus primarily on postsecondary education and assistance with the college application process.

“The original idea came from the counseling department, not administration,” Power said. “As a whole we were not supporting the students enough in the college application process. We needed to mix it up.”

This mixup required administration and the counseling department to work in a joint effort to redesign the structure, which included adding two new counselors.

Ms. Lelia Flagg helps students with last names that fall between A and E, while Ms. Priscilla Greenwood helps students with last names that range Ru-Z. Ms. Judy Tretter and Ms. Jenny Lange continue their roles from last year but have switched alphabetical letters.

Contrary to last year, Prange serves as postsecondary and assessment counselor to help both students and parents with college

options and career choices after high school and testing, such as the PLAN and all-school ACT. “I really enjoy working with students and families on such an exciting stage of life,” Prange said. “Even though I still have much knowledge to gain, my goal is to help alleviate some of the stress and confusion about the process for families along the way.”

While the counseling department lost two veteran staff members, it still maintains leaders with experience to continue the mission of helping students, according to administrators.

That leaves more than three senior members on staff to assist the new counselors with students and the adjustment process.

“Mrs. Prange is now chair of the counseling department,” assistant principal Dr. Carletta Harlan said. “I think that puts this change into great perspective because there is still great veteran leadership at the head of the counseling department. She is super professional with her work and she loves working with our students.”

The new structure aims for a more sufficient support system for students. Prange will be available to work with all students regarding college and postsecondary assistance.

“She has given me tons of guidance on the college process,” senior Frank Henry said. “I’ve learned about all the things Family Connections has to offer and how to sign up for different events. I think visiting her will be really helpful this year when we are making decisions about college.”

Even with a changeover in staff, students continue to utilize the assistance provided. More specifically, upperclassmen now have a counselor to consult with about all of their post high school endeavours.

“I will be going back to Mrs. Prange all the time. I’m planning to continue to meet with her throughout the process this year,” Henry said.

More News Online Mrs. Winifred Crock was featured on PBS “Living St. Louis” on Monday, Sept. 23, for her work in orchestra education.

Central students conquer the ACT with perfect scores.

Counseling structure, then and now Senior Ben Levine challenges social and political norms through independent studies.

2012-13 Ms. Jenny Lange Students: Di-I

Ms. Judy Tretter Students: J-Me Mr. Paul Milonas Students: Se-Z

Mr. Ryan Connors Students: Mi-Sc

2013-14 Ms. Lelia Flagg Students: A-E

Ms. Jenny Lange Students: F-La Ms. Priscilla Greenwood Students: Ru-Z

Ms. Judy Tretter Students: Lb-Ro

Check out daily online stories at parkwaynews.net/corral or by using the QR codes above.

Ms. Nana Prange Postsecondary Counselor

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Ms. Nana Prange Students: A-De

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The varsity cheerleaders prepare for the Colts to break the banner and take the field in the Homecoming football game against Parkway West on Sept. 20. Central won 49-0. Photo by Emily Schenberg.

Hear Cheer the

Students, staff partake in Homecoming festivities

Math teacher Ms. Heather Beal and science teacher Mrs. Beth Karfs participate in the faculty dance on Sept. 20. Photo by Emily Schenberg.

Left: The sophomores struggle to win against the seniors during tug-of-war at Homeconing games on Sept. 18 due to lack of participation.

Right: Using only one hand each, the senior class defeats the juniors in tugof-war. Photos

by Meaghan Flynn.

Catherine Melvin Social Media Editor

The varsity players on the sideline support the coming kickoff by holding up their helmets at the game on Sept. 20. Photo by Rebekah Poscover.

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Junior Varsity dance team performs at the Homeconing pep rally on Sept. 20.

Photo by Emily Schenberg

Transfer students tackle challenges of new school Students Speak Improvements from old schools

Jordan Lee (9) - More class choices - More diversity in student body Michael Morgan (12) - Able to participate in NHS - More organized activities for students Terrion Cooper (12) - Able to earn an accredited diploma - Teacher websites that display homework and assignments

Matthew Bernstein Online Editor

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he class options that many students are offered daily haven’t been taken for granted by students that recently transferred to Parkway Central.

Freshman Jordan Lee wanted to transfer to receive a better education by taking classes like Design Tech and Radio & TV that make learning about technology available.

“I’m in Radio & Television. We didn’t have any class like it at my old school,” Lee said. “I like technology, and I couldn’t expand my knowledge of it if I had stayed at Riverview Gardens.”

Students coming from an unaccredited school like Riverview Gardens were given the chance to transfer to whatever accredited school they wanted.

“A school like Central offered teachers who care and nice clean facilities to learn in,” Lee said.

Senior Michael Morgan, also from Riverview Gardens, agrees.

“Teachers are really helpful here and care about your future,” Morgan said. “All the classes are good and on my level, and the teachers challenge you to do better.”

Coming to Central allows students the opportunity to earn an accredited diploma.

Senior Terrion Cooper said he didn’t know much about Parkway Central before enrolling. His main goal is to graduate in May with an accredited diploma.

“The diploma here looks better, and it’ll help me enroll at a college,” Cooper said. “The school is giving me the opportunity to stack classes to make sure I graduate.”

One challenge for students is the transportation to and from school.

“I have to go to sleep at 7:30 or 8 at night to be well-rested for the next day,” Lee said. “I get up at 3 a.m., and when I come with my mom, I leave at about 4:30 a.m. When I come with my cousins, they’re always busy in the morning and I end up getting to school late.”

Students are still trying to figure out the best method of transportation to get to school on time.

“Since it’s new, every day feels like a road trip to get to and from school,” Lee said.

Students have made the transition from not knowing other students easy as Lee feels students have been more than nice to him. Other students have felt the same way.

“My brother and my cousin both decided to go to school here,” Morgan said. “I would’ve come on my own. Everyone here is friendly. Before I was talking to people, they had become my friends.”

Transfer students have also noticed a change in the learning mentality of students.

“Everybody seems to want to be here, and people are prepared to learn,” Cooper said.

The mentality also carries through with student athletes who are held to tight discipline standards with coaches.

“At Riverview they weren’t into academics. Coaches just make sure students stay disciplined,” Cooper said. “Here you can’t mess up. Coaches will find out, and there will be consequences.”

With these standards, Lee said he can come to Central and can have a balance in activities. Lee looks forward to playing sports in the spring.

“I like track and baseball because I can show people my talents, and now I’ll be able to play on good teams,” Lee said.

Hernandez joins staff as new resource officer Kate McNeal Staff Writer

they’re already going in a good direction, they can make it better.”

Hernandez also said he hopes to build relationships with students.

“I try to counsel kids and give them direction,” Hernandez said.

Assistant principal Mr. Chris Dallas agrees that ith the departure of former School ReHernandez has the chance to build relationships with source Officer Bob Evans, Officer Zeus students so that they can feel comfortable coming to him Hernandez has taken his place to help with issues regarding law enforcement. provide a safe learning environment for students.

“From time to time, there are things that come up “I wanted to do something different from road that involve breaking of the law, and to have a familiar work, and I thought this was a good opportunity to face makes it easier to handle and process these things do that,” Hernandez said. when they come up,” Dallas said.

In a day of work, Hernandez helps guide cars According to Dallas, Hernandez helps support teachin the parking lot before and after school, and ers and administrators as well as students in solving throughout the day he checks the parking lot to problems around school. make sure cars aren’t being broken in to.

“The principals, teachers and counselors don’t always Hernandez patrolled for six and a half years have the answers,” Dallas said. “He gives a different before replacing Evans, who worked at Central the perspective.” previous five years. When Evans left Chesterfield Freshman Jessie Goldberg finds comfort in having a for a position in DeSoto, his position had to be police officer on campus. filled, and Hernandez applied for the job.

“I feel a lot safer at school with a police officer here,” The application process included interviewing Goldberg said. “It’s nice to see Officer Hernandez at at school and with his department, and also writing football games because I know if there’s ever a fight, about why he was interested in the job. he’ll be the one to break it up, and not many people When his current position became available, Officer Zeus Hernandez supervises students by the front doors dur- will get injured.”

Hernandez said he saw a chance to help students.

Hernandez said he is trying to get involved with the Going into the job, Hernandez said he wanted to ing lunch. This system is new this year and aims to prevent students students and faculty and has already been to the home gain new perspectives on students and see the dif- leaving school for unnecessary reasons. Photo by Kate McNeal. football games. ferences between schools now compared to when Senior Jessica DeMunbrun has noticed his effort. he was a student.

“Officer Evans was great, and we’ll miss him, but from what I’ve seen around school “I think these are very important years for students,” Hernandez said. “They can really so far, the new resource officer seems just as great,” DeMunbrun said. turn their life around. If they’re going in a bad direction, they can make it good, and if

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rash alk District begins

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understanding.”

With the pilot program at North High, Parkway has already witnessed some of the effective and noneffective techniques of teaching this new “green” program.

“Students teaching students is the most effective method we’ve seen,” Lueders said. “Teachers can talk all day, but until students take ownership of this program, there will be some struggle. Students at North High understood this and even went as far as to teach to the middle school.”

Mrs. Beth Karfs, sponsor of environmental club Operation 350, said her students are implementing this method.

“Some of Operation 350 members, seniors Julia Goldman and Sarah Kim included, were involved in the push for compostable lunch trays at the district level and were integral parts in making that happen,” Karfs said. “Bringing it to the Central area was just finishing their original work.”

Matt Frischer Goldman began her quest to help make the Central lunchroom more green as early as two years ago. She News Editor constantly monitored the composting program at North last year in an effort to make the program at Central as mplementing great change in order to “go green” has effective as possible. slowly become more noticeable in school districts “I became acquainted with two students from North across the nation, and Parkway School District has High and organized a presentation supporting composting continued to play its part. to give to the Superintendent's Action Team,” Goldman “Parkway has a recycling prosaid. “The superingram that is two decades old. The tendent proposed goal of this program is to divert our ideas at the May an additional 720 tons of mateboard meeting, and rial from the landfill,” Parkway it was approved in Sustainability and Purchasing June.”

Manager Mr. Erik Lueders said.

Many students “This will be accomplished by share concerns about using 100 percent recycled content how the majority lunch trays instead of Styrofoam of the school will and using a composting service respond to the seemthat takes all food scrap and trays ingly radical change. to a compost facility that blends “I would rethat material into mulched yard ally like to see our waste.” student population This change breaks a longbecome more aware lasting tradition of Styrofoam of the changes lunch trays. The Board of Educaaround us,” Goldtion recently approved the change man said. “I know distric-wide, according to assistant most students are principal Mr. Travis Fast. aware of the compost “I think it's a good example bins, but they haven't of our district seeking ways to be quite yet grasped that environmentally and financially other things beyond responsible,” Fast said. “Styrofoam the trays are comhas been used for decades in postable. We'll get Junior Claire Ji and senior Julia Goldman tour the comParkway, so this is a major breakthere, it will just take posting facility with other Parkway students and district through.” environmental head Erik Lueders. Photo courtesy of Mrs. time.”

The new composting process Last year, Karfs Beth Karfs. will not simply take place overand Operation 350 night, though. There is a detailed visited the compostplan on what to do with the compost. ing center to view the fruits of their labor.

“After being used, these new compostable trays will be “The composting yard was lower tech than I was placed in new yellow compost bins,” Lueders said. “The expecting.

It was nice because it’s a natural process and it full bins are then swapped by a company, Blue Skies made that kind of obvious. It just does its own thing natuRecycling, which will take the food scrap and trays to the rally,” Karfs said. “I was happily surprised at how natural same location that all yard waste is disposed of. The food the entire process was.” scrap is used to create nutrient-rich compost that is then This change has been long in coming, but the results available for purchase at garden stores.” have the potential to change the atmosphere of the comWhile the change may seem somewhat monumental, it munity. has been tested already at a nearby school.

“The second largest school district in the St. Louis area “At North High we worked with student environmental is composting.

Who else can say they were part of the clubs and science classes to take the lead in spreading group that made that push? I'm very proud of our comawareness,” Lueders said. “These students created a lot of visual media to clearly explain what goes where and spent munity for making this change and accepting it,” Goldman time during the lunches helping out classmates get a better said.

720 tons: amount the district expects to divert from the landfill to a compost facility

pounds: average weight of each bin when taken to compost

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year composting has been implemented districtwide

150,000 aluminum cans recycled every year even before the new composting system

700,000 Styrofoam trays used annually in years past before composting program

Goldman said she is prepared to deal with the growing pains of implementing a new program.

“Recycling was weird at first, too; no one understood what to do,” Goldman said. “Right now, composting is that weird new thing, but I know in the future that this will become second nature.”

Although Goldman said that the new program will take a while to get off the ground, it has already been noticed by the community.

“Parkway has won an award from the Missouri Recycling Association for their composting,” Goldman said.

She traveled to Jefferson City with other students to receive the award on Sept. 17.

Coalition looks to make impact on peers Matthew Walter Entertainment Editor

then, they have been meeting about once a week.

“I like how Parkway Coalition is a very welcoming group and is happy to let anyone join, because it covers a wide variety of topics,” junior Libby Kaiser said. “It’s also easy to be a part of because, even if you can’t make a meeting, there’s always a way to help out and advocate to people what’s going on.”

Another goal of the program is to put out a monthly video that follows different people’s lives.

Each month’s video covers a variety of themes and topics.

“Our message isn’t just to stop drinking or to stop doing drugs,” Hwang said. “We want people to see into other’s peoples lives and learn about each other.”

Other specific plans for the future besides a monthly video are uncertain, but the program’s

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new group known as Parkway Coalition was introduced at each grade’s class meeting on Aug. 16. The group presented a 1:30 clip in which several members of the program introduced themselves, gave an example of a teenage problem, and then offered their solution to the problem.

“We [Parkway Coalition] are a branch of a city-wide project started by Parkway, and over six schools are participating to help combat against social norms,” senior Jonathan Hwang said.

Parkway Coalition consists of students who believe in living and promoting a healthy lifestyle. Some principles of the group include being alcohol- and drugfree, along with avoiding texting and driving.

The first few members of the program were approached last spring by health teacher Ms. Terri Members of Coalition team up to make one of their monthly videos. From upper left: O’Leary during another program that promotes a freshman Paige Wallis, senior Peyton Mogley, junior Carly Beck, sophomore Caithealthy lifestyle, Peer Teaching. lin Magruder, senior Kyle Pollak, junior Matthew Schmittdiel, sophomore Michael “Initially I was hesitant to join because it didn’t Rembold and senior Daniel Larson. The program looks to make a monthly video that really sound too fun,” Hwang said. “However, after promotes a healthy lifestyle. Photo courtesy of Jonathan Hwang. second thought, I imagined how much of an impact I could have with my peers and those younger than ultimate goal is to change lives. myself.”

“This program is still fairly new, and we’re considering a wide range of possibilities for In November 2012, the district received a grant for five years worth $500,000 from the how we will expand in the future to reach more people and effectively spread our mesMissouri Foundation for Health. With the grant, Parkway created the coalition program. sage,” junior Jacqueline Ihnat said.

Students interested in the program attended a districtwide meeting last spring. Since

District’s state scores create focus on student attendance Nathan Kolker Digital Integration Editor in Chief

“During Ac Lab, my room usually has about 30 students in it and one teacher,” Byrd said. “I am trying to re-teach everything I can to each individual student, and they only get about two minutes of my time. If they are in class, then they have 90 minutes of my time because we are all working on the same material.” espite receiving a district score of 97.5 percent on Missouri Department of ElJunior Gabby Mesnier said she will miss an estimated 15 days of school this year ementary and Secondary Education’s School Improvement Program test, building because of organizational commitments outside of school. She can attest to the stress that principal, Mr. Tim McCarthy is convinced that there is more work to be done. comes with missing class.

The MSIP scores show that Central missed three and a half points. Two and a half of “It gets stressful when you have things that you have to do in all of your classes at those points were related to student attendance. While the state’s goal is for 90 percent once, especially if you miss a C day,” Mesnier said. “But after missing as much as I have, of students to be in school 90 percent of the time, Central’s average sits around the 85 I am used to it.” percent mark, a statistic that concerns McCarthy.

Teachers have noted, however, that other students cannot recover from missed days as “Part of what I have shared with teachers is that we need to do a better job of helping easily, and it shows in their class performance. ensure that students are in classrooms so that the teachers can work with the students to This is the first set of the results from the MSIP Cycle 5 analysis. In the improve achievement,” McCarpast, the MSIP primarily considered test scores when evaluating a school for thy said. accreditation. The new evaluation takes overall achievement, gap achieveAccording to McCarthy, the ment and college readiness into account, including ACT, SAT and AP administration is trying to raise scores, as well as dual credit performance, attendance and graduation rates. awareness regarding poor at“As a district we like the new system because it is a broader assessment of tendance by sending notices to the students’ accomplishments,” McCarthy said. “It puts Parkway in a more parents. favorable light. As a district and as a high school, we like it because it is a “We are trying to mix attenbroader assessment of who we are and what we are accomplishing.” dance into our problem-solving Even though the staff is working to improve in the areas that the adstructures in the school, so when ministration is not yet satisfied with, McCarthy said he is proud of the high a student begins to have negative - Principal Mr. Tim McCarthy ranking. attendance, we begin to address “I think it reflects very favorably of who we are as a community. It that with the student’s family,” reflects upon our tradition of academic excellence,” McCarthy said. “As a McCarthy said. “Then we can community we are very diverse, and collectively we see that as a strength. We feel the identify ways to get the students in class,” McCarthy said. inherent calling to really respect that diversity by ensuring success with all of our kids.”

Math teacher Mrs. Janell Byrd understands the importance of attendance, not only in McCarthy credits both the students and teachers for the results of the latest MSIP her math classes, but in every subject area. evaluation.

“It is hard to catch up when you are not a part of class,” Byrd said. “That leads to “We all have a sense of pride about being at Central High,” McCarthy said. “I think poor performance, so it is really important that students are in class every day.” that our teachers have done so much work and continue to do so much work to try to Even though many students take advantage of their time to catch up in school work support all of our students in helping each student achieve at the very best level that they during Academic Lab, Byrd said that it is much easier for students to learn the material can.” during class time with their peers.

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We need to do a better job of helping ensure that students are in classrooms so that the teachers can work with the students to improve achievement.

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Sellers makes fashion statement Catherine Melvin Social Media Editor

said. “I wish I could wear pants like his. I have to find super skinny emo pants and then wear them as ‘normal.’”

Although some teachers don’t know what to think about the outfits, Sellers has a high approval rating among the students. tripes, checked, plaid...will polka dots be next? Social studies teacher “Sellers’ pants are the most swagged out pants I’ve ever seen,” Mr. Tom Sellers, keeps the hallway hip with his extraordinary senior Tasha Frazier said. “No other teacher can pull off the wardrobe. Sporting an array of crazy pants throughout the week, outfits he wears.”

Sellers is a classified fashionista.

Although Sellers chooses to dress up during school “I have been easing into the look over the last few years,” Sellers hours, he is also the girls junior varsity basketball coach. said. “During high school I played golf, so I’m used to seeing the fun There, he chooses to dress more casually. colors and patterns.”

“I normally wear the ‘fun’ outfits for events or to Although his fashion choices are not directly inspired by school, but otherwise the ‘coach’ me kicks in and it’s anyone, his support comes from home. comfortable T-shirts and shorts,” Sellers said.

“My wife loves it. If she didn’t, why would I do it?” Sellers Junior Mia Feldman was coached by Sellers during said. “My 14-year-old son thinks I need an identity check, but basketball season and found his fashion sense off of the that’s pretty normal.” court amusing.

At school however, an entirely different reaction is “I love when he wears fun pants because it’s hilariproduced. ous seeing what he decides to wear to school,” Feld“I get ridiculed, teased and receive a lot of smart man said. “He’s great at matching his outfits to always aleck comments. One time someone asked me, ‘When look cool, but sometimes I have to tell him he looks does the circus start?’” Sellers said. weird just to mess with him.”

Despite the differing opinions, he still confidently dons Junior Libby Kaiser said she thinks it’s great when the look. Many other teachers say they can’t pull off what people express their personality through their wardSellers does. robe.

“You never know what he’s going to wear,” “I think Sellers’s pants are hilarious and colleague and social studies teacher Mr. they show his great sense of humor,” Kaiser Keith Herberger said. “I don’t have enough said.

“They contribute to his great character.” confidence for funky pants. Today I wore Even though Sellers’s fashion expertise a button down shirt and someone told me does not rub off on his co-workers, Herbergthat was the first time they had seen me in Tasha Frazier (12) er sums it up. a button down.”

“Sellers often wears interesting pants Social studies teacher Mr. Brian and although I don’t, I’m sure glad he Adam also chimed in. Both Adam and does,” Herberger said.

Sellers share the common quality of “over extensive” legs.

“I spend a lot of time thinking about Seller’s pants,” Adam

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Sellers’s pants are the most swagged out pants I’ve ever seen.

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Teachers step into advanced role Kirk Randolph Staff Writer

new classes. In Kim’s case, she actually changed roles from teacher to student over the summer.

“I went to Ms. [Donna] Cleavelin’s, ome students are still trying to get used to their schedules for this the AP Government teacher last year, school year. However, students are not the only ones that have some house every week over the summer adjusting to do, as many AP classes have new teachers in them. and we went over the entire curricu“Anytime you teach a new class, it is a lot more work because you are lum,” Kim said. developing your curriculum,” AP government teacher Mrs. Skylar Kim These teachers didn’t get all this said. responsibility with the snap of a finger.

While most teachers are busy worrying about learning each student’s They were chosen by administrators name, teachers such as Kim and Dr. Susan King, the new AP world history like building principal Mr. Tim McCarteacher, are learning new curricula because they have taken on the role of thy who have certain expectations for Advanced Placement teachers. their AP teachers.

While a lot of students are afraid of AP classes because of all the work “We look for things we would look that the classes call for, many of them don’t realize that the teacher is Dr. Susan King teaches senior Natsu Gavin in her AP history for in any teacher, as well as their conusually taking on the same, if not greater, challenge when they accept the tent mastery, ability to create a positive position. class. King has transitioned from teaching Honors World and supportive learning environment “Like all my classes, I want my students to be successful,” Kim said. “Yet History to the Advanced Placement course. Photo by Kirk and, finally, their ongoing willingness to AP definitely adds a level of stress because I want to make sure that I am Randolph. grow and learn,” McCarthy said. properly preparing my students for the tests.”

The transition for each teacher to Preparing students doesn’t just mean helping them get a good grade on one test a teaching AP classes is not as straight-forward. month. In AP, students will take tests more frequently as well as a test at the end of the King said she simply made the transition from teaching Honors World History to AP year that determines earned college credit.

With that in mind, when those tests come around, it is a stressful time for AP teachers. World History. In Kim’s case, there was an opening in the AP department when Cleavelin retired.

Students will also write essays that add to the teachers workload as well.

“I am excited about teaching AP World History,” King said. “I hope that my students “I find being an AP teacher stressful,” King said. “But, I find teaching any class stresswill gain an understanding of major themes and events in world history, develop key ful; that is just my personality.” historical thinking skills and improve their writing.”

Kim and King spent a large portion of their summer learning the curriculum of their

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Sophomore performs Bharata Natyam skills Meaghan Flynn Business Manager

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fter spending six years practicing Bharata Natyam, a type of Indian dancing, sophomore Juhi Nayak was one of only six girls from the Dances of India school to showcase her skills at Chaminade.

To prepare for her performance, Nayak began piecing together different dance numbers a year in advance. While practices were initially a couple times a week, she gradually worked up to daily practices, sometimes dancing for more than three hours per day.

“I didn’t get much sleep when I was rehearsing every day, but for me, dancing isn’t a chore,” Nayak said. “It’s just like a regular sport, and I had to learn to manage school with my practices. I wouldn’t have been able to manage without Ac Lab.” Besides learning new time management skills, Nayak also had to improve two major aspects of Indian dancing: footwork and expression.

While footwork, which is basic Sophomore Juhi Nayak performs at Chaminade dance moves, comes naturally to on July 20. Photos courtesy of Juhi Nayak.

Nayak, she struggled with expression. Expressions are the facial responses she makes to convey the message of the dance.

“I think expressions were harder for me because you need to mature a little more before you can properly express certain emotions,” Nayak said.

For her actual performance, Nayak had to prepare nine different numbers. These

included three basic dances, one main dance, an expression dance and a dance that Nayak choreographed herself.

“My teacher knows how much I love dancing, so she gave me as much to do as she could,” Nayak said.

In addition to her performance at Chaminade, Nayak also participates in different events with Dances of India.

Her group performs at Festival of Nations, Washington University and different churches and temples. These performances give Nayak and the other dancers a chance to show their skills.

“Indian dancing is a lot more Nayak focuses on expressions during her complex than it appears,” she performance. “The performance is kind of similar to said. “It requires a lot of energy a bat mitzvah service,” Nayak said. “It’s a ceremony to move and make the right to show what you have learned.” facial expressions at the same time. You have to build up your stamina to make it through the performance.”

Nayak said that when she started dancing at 9 years old, was unsure about what to expect or what she could gain from it. Despite her hesitations, Nayak said her dancing has become an extremely important part of her life.

“When I dance, I become a different person,” she said. “I’m more confident and I feel more powerful. It feels so good to be on stage. It just feels right.”

Aide classes provide help to students, teachers Katie Richards Opinions Editor

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ffice aide is a popular “class” when there is great temptation to take easier classes during a hectic senior year. However, there is a different way to relax during the day and help others. The lesser-known aide classes are a relief to students and teachers alike.

Chemistry aide, for example, was established by former science teacher Mr. Ken Greathouse. He would ask one of the office aides every semester if they would spend their class with him so they could help set up and take down labs. Eventually, students started signing up for that responsibility themselves.

“Chemistry is a prep-intensive course, so it’s a big help to set up labs,” science teacher Mr. Lee Johnson said.

For seniors like Andrew Matusofsky and Jalisa Cherry, every day spent with Johnson and science teacher Mrs. Beth Karfs is an adventure.

“I liked chemistry a lot last year so I wanted to continue doing it,” Cherry said. “I love mixing chemicals and watching reactions.”

Aside from playing with chemicals and getting ready for experiments, the class consists of organizing supplies, cleaning up from the labs and testing the new labs so that the students are actually able to execute them.

“Mrs. Karfs is rewriting a lab for dissolving a penny this A math aide’s purpose is to help students struggling in year and I get to be the guinea math by giving them more individualpig,” Matusofsky said. “I’m ized time in an extra math class. really excited.”

“I work in an algebra lab,” senior Having an aide is not only Leeore Levinstein said, “which reina stress reliever for teachers forces the math skills students learn in but an opportunity for students their regular class. Every day we review to prepare themselves for a homework and Mr. [Kurt] Lehmann career in science. Because teaches them a mini-lesson and assigns their time is spent almost them extra problems.” exclusively in the lab, the class Levinstein’s math aide class is similar provides a lot of exposure to to tutoring; she walks around for a mathat environment, which Majority of the hour answering questions, tusofsky and Cherry agree is a explaining concepts and making sure great thing. This gives students that students have the correct answers to a leg up on other students their homework. whose first lengthened time in Levinstein said she enjoys teaching a lab could be in college. and helping the students understand a “I want to go into scisubject she enjoys more than she would ence as a career, so it’s good like running around doing errands.

Senior Andrew Matusofsky practices a practice for what I’ll be doing reaction during his chemistry aide class.

Levinstein said she also believes that later,” Matusofsky said. “It’s a Photo by Katie Richards. the specific help and extra practice the really educational experience.” students received is good for them.

In much the same way, “I think it helps them because they students who are math aides are helpful to both students have a math class every day, and it’s fresh in their minds,” and teachers.

Levinstein said. “It’s more beneficial to more people.”

AP Art creates murals, brings new perspective to class Lillie Wasserman Production Manager

P

aint a mental picture of an artistic melting pot, composed of a handful of extremely talented artists in school. This picture is one of AP Studio Art, in which students were given a twist on their pretest introductory project and were asked to decorate the physical walls of the art department.

This class, in which students explore different types of artistic expression, is composed of 11 students. Senior Emily Walters notes that this year’s AP Art is a very special group.

“This year’s group is simply wonderful,” Walters said. “Everybody brings something different to the department, and there is a huge variety of skills and styles.”

A unique aspect to the class this year is the graffiti project. The beginning project is always a self-portrait, and senior Shane Wille explains the inspiration behind the project.

“The whole idea was more of a spontaneous idea since Mrs. [Cara]Deffenbaugh didn’t like seeing empty walls, so we brought life to those walls,” Wille said.

The students were allowed to let their artistic juices flow and make their projects personal and unique.

“My mural is a self-portrait of myself screaming, inspired by the graffiti artist Billi Kidd,” Walters said. “It is supposed to represent my general frustration with life and school lately. It is a reminder for myself not to take for granted everything I have here that I won’t have a year from now.”

Other students gathered inspiration from graffiti artists but put their own twist on the art.

“My mural was inspired from a couple graffiti artists, but I also kind of went my own way with it,” junior Kelsey Bonini said.

Similarly, Wille incorporated the environment and texture of the walls in the art wing into his project.

“I would describe my mural as just me having fun with it and more inspired by graffiti works that incorporate the environment they are painted on, such as the brick wall setting,” Senior Shane Wille paints his mural for Wille said.

Although boards are being put up to hang AP Art. HE

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Features

Oct. 2, 2013

Senior Emily Walters channeled her own personality into her mural. Photos by Lillie Wasserman. artwork that will temporarily cover the art, the graffiti will not be painted over.

“In however many years, when they need to replace the boards again, the workers and students will be able to see our paintings again for a short time period,” Walters said.

“I think that’s my favorite thing about the project: it’s both temporary and timeless.”

The other new aspect of AP Art this year is a new Tumblr account, which easily displays their artwork to the student body, family and each other.

“I think the Tumblr idea was just because we wanted to have a website where people could look at our artwork; and most everyone seems to have a Tumblr these days, so we thought it was a good idea,” Bonini said.

Another perk of AP Art students publishing their artwork online is for the viewing ability of future employers and universities.

“It is great that other kids in school interested in the department can go and look at our stuff,” Walters said. “There’s also the benefit that we each have our own section on the account, so we can easily display our work to various colleges and employers since it’s cohesive and concise.”

Matt Frischer News Editor

Chess club makes first move

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hess Club? Check.

A new Chess Club has started up, sponsored by Spanish teacher Mr. Dan Kelty, a recent chess fan.

“I’ve become a big fan of chess via an online chess site,” Kelty said.

The fresh club brings lots to the table for students. Junior Dan Rasmussen is one student excited about the formation of the club.

“I decided to join Chess Club because I was involved with chess when I was in elementary school, and it’s something that’s fun to do with friends after school,” Rasmussen said.

In these meetings, many games of chess are played in a fun atmosphere of joking and enjoyment.

“We all go to Mr. Kelty’s room after school on Mitch Weinstein (11) ponMondays and just play ders a move while playing chess,” junior and

a game of chess in Mr. Dan Kelty’s room during Ac Lab. Photo by Jason Sobelman.

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club president Kevin Cao said. “It’s intense; people get really into their game.”

While intense games are allowed and enjoyed, any skill level of chess player is welcome at Chess Club.

“If you’re a beginner and don’t know how the pieces move, it’s not hard to learn,” Cao said. “If you have no athletic ability, you can still play a sport through chess.”

Chess Club tends to be relaxed, which is appreciated by members.

“The club helps me to take time in the week before practice to relax, play a game of chess and hang out,” Rasmussen said.

A majority of the members are from the soccer team, but students from all different activities or no activities partake in the many games of chess.

“Chess is fun, but playing with cool people in the club is the real reason it’s fun,” junior Mitch Weinstein said. “The true experience is one of great enjoyment.”

The mix between intense games and relaxation provides for a great environment for all who care to participate in the club.

“Chess is a great game that is fun and challenging,” junior Ben South said. “It’s fun to play against friends and strangers. It’s different from other activities because it challenges your mind instead of your body. It’s a good break for people.”

Chess is a passion shared by many members of the club and might even help students out in the classroom.

“It’s a wonderful game, just for the pure fun of playing or even learning to play,” Kelty said. “I’m sure that there are studies that show that chess helps you improve in other areas of learning.”

Yet, with several possible benefits to be taken from Chess Club, it is not at all time consuming.

“We only meet after school on Mondays, and anyone can leave early if they have practices for sports,” Cao said.

One last bonus is the chance to challenge the Chess Club sponsor.

“People should join and see if they can beat Kelty,” Cao said.

Along with Kelty organizing the club, the Chess Club has recently appointed new board members and positions to better run the group.

“Chess is a fantastic game to learn and play,” South said. “I have fun playing it and would recommend it to anyone.”

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he opening of the new outlet malls this summer means more to students than just ano blow through their piggy bank savings.

Over the course of the summer, two new outlet malls opened in the Chesterfield V Louis Premium Outlets and the Taubman Prestige Outlets. The outlets offer many ne ing from Michael Kors and Kate Spade New York to Nike.

Not only does the opening of the outlet malls offer new shopping opportunities, b vides hundreds of employment opportunities that many students have taken advantage of.

Junior Carsen Swallow began working at Nike at the St. Louis Premium Outlets in Augu “I got offered a great job opportunity and thought it would be really fun to work at the o low said.

Junior Eric Ballesteros, who received a job at Pacific Sun at the Taubman Prestige Outlet said he also enjoys working at the new outlets.

“It’s really fun getting to see my friends and help people shop,” Ballesteros said. “Plus w discounts, like buy one, get one free jeans.”

Getting from store to store at the outlet malls requires walking outside, and while this can tage in nice weather, the heat has affected business, according to Ballesteros.

Outlets add variety to shopping possibilities

isk Editor

time for the rush of back to school shopping, Taubman Prestige Outlet opened its on Aug. 2. On Aug. 22, St. Louis Premium Outlets did the same. Within a span of weeks, store options for student shoppers increased drastically.

When I first heard about the outlets, I was really excited because there are some new that are not at the mall,” junior Natalie Dicker said. cluded in these new malls are several teen favorites, such as Polo Ralph Lauren, Adidas, Tommy Hilfiger, BCBG, American Eagle, Pacific Sunwear and more. ome of the stores at the two malls overlap, the majority of each outlet’s selection varo frontrunners for students. remium Outlets, there are a lot more stores and stores that I like,” sophomore Tal d. “It also looks better with its plaza and everything.” n Will Jost agrees, due to the wider variety of stores in the Premium Outlet. mium Outlets was more crowded, but it had more sports stuff,” Jost said.

Adidas are among the stores exclusive to the Premium Outlet. Freshman Emilia

Cytron said the food court was another positive aspect of that mall.

Although many students preferred the Premium Outlet, some saw benefits to the Taubman Outlet as well. Dicker’s favorite outlet store, American Eagle, is only at the Taubman outlet, as is Polo Ralph Lauren and several smaller scale speciality shops. In addition, the specific selection in stores is a plus.

“There is more in the Premium Outlets, but the deals aren’t as good as in Taubman,” Halperin said.

With the new availability of sale items, some students believe other retail areas may decrease in popularity. Both senior Andrea Chelist and Dicker think they will frequent their usual stores, such as local malls or Target, less because of the existence of the outlets.

While the outlets have now been open for weeks, and the hype has died down some, the opening weekends of each were major attractions. Checkout lines wrapped around stores and major traffic issues plagued shoppers.

“The first day was crazy,” junior Laura Stecher said. “There was no parking, and I waited in line at the Polo store for two and a half hours.”

The Taubman Outlet is located of off Highway 40 in the Chesterfield Valley, and the St. Louis Premium Outlets is closer to the Daniel Boone Bridge off of Chesterfield Airport Road.

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“It was crazy when we first opened, but now the heat has slowed business down,” Ballesteros said.

“Business is still good but not overwhelming.”

Student employees said this slowdown has made for a laid-back work environment.

“Even though it can be very busy at work sometimes, it is still so fun,” junior Rennell Payne, who also works at Nike, said. “I love getting to work at my favorite store - it’s an amazing experience.”

Another benefit of working at the outlets, according to students, is getting to meet people from all over the St. Louis area.

“We have a lot of different customers from all different areas like St. Charles, not just Chesterfield,” Swallow said.

Ballesteros said he also enjoys the variety of customers.

“The shoppers at the outlets are different than the ones at Chesterfield Mall,” Ballesteros said. “There are less mall rats to mess up my folds.”

Swallow said the only con of working at the at outlets is that they are slightly farther away than other possible places of employment.

If a couple minutes extra drive doesn’t pose a problem, Payne recommends getting a job at the outlets.

“I would recommend as many people to apply as possible,” Payne said. “There is not a single thing I don’t like about my job.”

Some stores, like Nike, are still hiring. But whether its to work or to shop, Swallow, Payne and Ballesteros all recommend taking a trip to the new outlet malls to visit the students that work there.

More online: Style Blog

Check out Catherine Melvin’s tips on various aspects of teen life:

Fall into Good Habits:

“School is back in motion, and as busy students it’s easy to forget healthy habits. With fall just around the corner, now is a great time to start.”

Your ‘purse’onality awaits:

“Even as a little girl I loved to lose my purse. No matter how cute the style, what color it was, or even if it was brand new, it always found a way to get away from me. After a few frustrating years of leaving my purse and all of its precious contents, I finally surrendered to the idea of not carrying one at all.”

Go to parkwaynews.net/corral for more.

On top of the world

Clare Conlisk Managing Editor

Boy band film worth ‘one’ viewing Dean Trail Sports Editor

“T

his Is Us” provides a comical story about the British boy band One Direction and a look inside the show of the five boys’ trip around the world on tour.

One Direction gets hated on for its perceived image of the typical boy band, but the boys, in fact, are far from typical. I’m not saying I love their music, but it is catchy.

And more than that, the movie really unveils the true character of each of the lads from One Direction.

The members of the band: Harry, Louis, Zayn, Liam and Niall are all normal and funny guys that really shine throughout the movie. Harry is the leader of practical joking on the other four guys and crew members for the concert series, which is worth the price of admission.

The movie follows the boys from their feeble beginnings on “The X-Factor” in 2010 through their present-day worldwide tour. Each boy started as a solo act when they all auditioned for the TV show. The boys were each eliminated in the 24-person cut, but Simon Cowell called them together to form one group.

“This Is Us” looks into the concerts all over the world, showing One Direction performing each song on the album, including “What Makes You Beautiful,” “Gotta Be You,” “Up All Night” and “One Thing.”

The movie was not directed to only “Directioners;” although I’m sure big fans of One Direction would love the movie, I believe that lots of guys would appreciate the humor and be able to deal with the music, even if they don’t enjoy it.

The movie was in 3D, which to me was completely unnecessary, one of my biggest complaints of my movie-

going experience.

Seeing the band’s concerts in 3D added no benefits, and the glasses are uncomfortable - especially when there isn’t a purpose in wearing them for hours.

When I went to see the movie in the afternoon on Rosh Hashanah, there were seven people in the theater and, surprisingly, six of the seven of us were guys.

I thought that was ironic consid- “This is Us” opened on Aug. 29 ering most of the and followed the bands trip around movie was about the world while on tour. girls obsessed with One Direction maybe they all saw it on opening weekend.

The movie earned $18.5 million on opening weekend alone and grossed $28.5 million total. These huge numbers show the support that One Direction has worldwide, which was easily seen from the concert footage in the movie.

All in all, I did enjoy the time I spent watching the movie. I, fortunately, never have to see it again, but as a one-time thing, I was pleased.

crowd was looking to enjoy the music and was very friendly and open on the lawn of the amphitheater.

Debuted September 2012 One pitfall of the concert, however, was housands of people crowd around the stage, on which Imagine Dragons plays hits the extensive lineup before Imagine Dragons 1. Radioactive (3:06) actually performed. from the debut studio album “Night ViAlthough bands 2. Tiptoe (3:14) sions” in combination 3. It’s Time (3:56) started playing with flashing lights around 5 in the 4. Demons (2:57) and quirky dance evening, Imagine 5. On Top of the World (3:12) moves.

Dragons did not Imagine Dragons 6. Amsterdam (4:01) take the stage until 7. Hear Me (3:55) performed at Verizon closer to 9:45 p.m.

Wireless Amphithe8. Every Night (3:37) This is not to ater on Saturday, 9. Bleeding Out (3:43) say, however, that Sept. 14. Before Imagine Dragons, four other up-and-coming 10. Underdog (3:29) the other bands alternative bands performed: Silversun Pickups, Cage the were not entertain- 11. Nothing Left to Say/Rocks (8:57) Elephant, Greek Fire and the Neighbourhood.

12. Working Man (3:55) ing.

As a headliner, Imagine Dragons put on a spectacular 13. Fallen (2:59) They were show. The songs, catchy and upbeat on the album, did not talented and upfail to impress live. The vocalist maintained his high-quality beat, for the most performance, as did the rest of the musicians. part, and catered to the alternative music fans that made up a In addition to the excellence of the actual music, the lightmajority of the crowd. ing effects kept the show exciting. The main focus, though, Despite the talent of the preceding bands, most of the was the music. The band stayed true to the music and crowd was not aware that the headliner would not be on until avoided being too gimmicky. much later in the evening. This long wait before the main Since the focus of the show was the music above all else, event dragged the concert out just a little too long. the crowd had a positive reaction to certain hits, such as “RaImagine Dragons released its debut studio album, Even with this setback, Imagine Dragons put on a terrific dioactive,” “On Top of the World” and “Underdog.” show, and I have no doubt that the band’s performance qualNight Visions, in September 2012.

The band began The crowd’s reaction to these hits contributed to the ity will only increase as its level of experience does. positive atmosphere of the show overall. The majority of the its tour the following year.

Imagine Dragons impresses live at amphitheater

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Entertainment Oct. 2, 2013

“Night Visions”

Ice cream parlors sources for socializing, snacking

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s the weather turns cold and students reminisce about their best summer moments, one of the most common is sitting down on a hot summer day with a huge scoop of ice cream.

“Going out for ice cream is one of my favorite things to do in the summer,” junior Batool Anwar said. “I love going to Cold Stone Creamery and eating as much ice cream as I can.”

Every time Anwar goes to Cold Stone Creamery, she said she gets the same flavor.

“I have to get “Oreo Overload,’” Anwar said. “It’s definitely their best, especially when you get the ‘Gotta Have It’ size. It’s huge.”

Based on a survey of 160 students, Sheridan’s was the favorite out of all of the places to get ice cream with 52 votes.

“We go to Sheridan’s pretty much every day,” said senior Marge Bleyer. “It’s the best ice cream around.”

Going out for ice cream has been a social activity since ice cream was first introduced to the United States in the 18th century. Now it is a great way to catch up

with friends or celebrate after an event or game.

“About every three weeks I go to Sheridan’s because I like eating ice cream while spending time with my friends,” freshman Mary Rothrock said.

Teachers also enjoy going out for ice cream. Spanish teacher Mrs. Andrea Williamson’s favorite ice cream is the Caramel Pretzel Concrete from Sheridan’s.

“I like going because it tastes good and it gets my kids really excited whenever we go,” Williamson said.

Whether Cold Stone Creamery or Sheridan’s, people can agree that there is nothing like eating ice cream on a hot day.

“Summer would not be complete without ice cream,” Anwar said “It’s not just about the ice cream but the whole experience of sitting out baking in the sun while enjoying a cold treat and spending time with your friends. It’s just so representative of summer.”

Since St. Louis has had a warmer than average fall, students have taken advantage of the weather to enjoy a favorite snack.

“I go to Sheridan’s a few times a month,” sophomore Kelsey Bennett said.

“It’s especially good on hot days because it’s so refreshing.”

e r o f Be , n o i t a u d gra . . . o t e k i l I’d Kelsey Larimore Staff Writer

W

ith high school careers coming to a close, many students find themselves with goals not yet met and experiences not yet had. Students in the Class of 2014 gave varied responses as to what they’d like to do before May.

“Have a pool party in the school pool.”

- Sallie Unell “Get a full night of sleep.”

- Emily Walters “Start some stupid trend.”

- Nick McCann “Be the most spirited seniors.”

- Lindsey Fafoglia “Be in the school newspaper.”

- Marge Bleyer “Better myself as a person.”

- Taylor Burns “Get accepted into a college.”

- Tyler Deaton

Favorite Ice Cream Places Dairy Queen (7%) Sheridan’s (32%) Ted Drew’s (11%)

Cold Stone Creamery (17%)

Other (18%) Ben and Jerry’s (15%) *Based on a poll of 160 students.

“Find the right school for my athletics and academics.”

- Nathan Biggs

“Run a mile in less than five minutes.”

- Ari Ginsparg “Get on Mr. Rochester’s wall of shame.”

- Nick Bible

“Steal Mr. Herberger’s gnome.”

- Jill Kealing “Skip a day of class.”

- Angelou Song “Cheer on varsity football at state.”

- Alyiah Lanius “Have my own music composition played at one of our orchestra concerts.” - Aidan McCarter

“Have the best senior year Central has ever seen.”

- Rachel Fike “Learn to drive.”

- Isabelle Muren “Meet and get to know someone in our class that I haven’t yet.”

- Brittany Gregory “Make an impact on someone’s life.”

- Molly Porfidio “Grow a beard.”

- Gabe Raskin

Opinions

Oct. 2, 2013

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Hanna Whitehouse Staff Writer

15

Chipotle vs. Qdoba: Best burrito battle Joe Goldberg Staff Writer

S

tudents are fortunate enough to have diverse Mexican burrito restaurants nearby.

Two fan favorites that compete for the burrito dominance are Chipotle and Qdoba.

Many would say that the two burrito joints are exactly the same or that the only difference is the queso at Qdoba. However, this is not quite true.

My typical Qdoba order consists of ordering a burrito. I start with a flour tortilla and next add cilantro-lime rice and black beans. I then add three-cheese queso and guacamole. For salsas, I prefer roasted chile corn, salsa roja (hot) and fiery habañero salsa (extra hot). Finally to finish off the burrito I add lettuce, cheese and fajita vegetables. The concoction produces a creamy fiery burrito that hits the spot on most occasions. Before my personal choice to not eat meat outside of the house, I would enjoy steak on my burrito instead of guacamole.

My typical Chipotle order is at least a once-per-week delight. I begin my order with a fan favorite, the Quesorito, which consists of a quesadilla grilled around a burrito. To begin the creation of the Quesorito, I add half cilantro-lime white rice and half brown rice. Next, I add plenty of black beans and fajita vegetables, mostly onions. Chipotle does an excellent job of creating different salsas, and I prefer roasted chili-corn salsa, tomatillo-red chili salsa and extra spicy tomatillo salsa. Since I no longer choose steak for my Quesorito, my favorite part of the burrito, the guacamole, comes free.

The creamy taste comes from the addition of sour cream, a little cheese and romaine lettuce. Finally, my secret ingredient is the salad dressing. The honey-chipotle vinegary taste adds a special flavor. This concoction reveals a fiery, creamy Quesorito that satisfies any hunger.

Qdoba leads the way with a queso Personally, I am in love with Chipotle. burrito.

The quality of food you receive at Chipotle is exponentially better than Qdoba.

The tortillas are softer, the guacamole is a million times better, the combination of flavors diversifies more and, all-around, the atmosphere of Chipotle is much simpler than Qdoba. If you prefer meat on your burrito, the steak at Chipotle is much fresher and moretasteful than at Qdoba. The salad dressing at Chipotle adds a little kick that is incredibly satisfying. Overall, the quality of ingredients at Chipotle puts Qdoba to shame.

However, many students disagree with me. The queso and variety at Qdoba overpowers the freshness of Chipotle. Chipotle revolutionizes the burrito with the Quesorito. Photos by Joe Goldberg.

“Qdoba is better because they have queso,” senior Connor Kramer said.

“You need queso on burritos; a burrito is nothing without queso.”

Social studies teacher Mr. Mark Goldenberg said that he is a big fan of both restaurants.

“But I would say Qdoba because it’s closer to me, and I go there more frequently,” Goldenberg said.

Another teacher is also a big fan of Qdoba and promises she will visit Chipotle in the near future.

“Qdoba is better because I like the wide variety of items on the menu, and even when I go with my vegetarian friends, they have food options too,” science teacher Ms. Kathy Burnett said.

However, not everyone is jumping on the Qdoba train. Many feel that the quality of food at Chipotle is superior to that of Qdoba.

“Chipotle has the best burrito in town,” senior Alex Yao said.

For some, the freshness and quality of food takes precedent over certain items on the menu.

“Chipotle is better because the food has a fresher taste, particularly with the meat,” senior Michael Gu said. “Also, their salad dressing on a burrito is unreal.”

Staff Editorial

D

espite the great education of students in this school, there seems to be a dip in knowledge when it comes to current events. It seems that our school is selling us short on being kept up-to-date with what’s going on not only in the world but also in our own backyards.

Little to none is said to the student body regarding national and world events and their impact in our daily lives.

Twelve years have passed since the world-changing attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, an event that is remembered across the country.

Or at least most places across the country.

The nation grieves together every year on this special day; a rare showing of patriotism busts out in communities all across the country. From news programs to rallies to a simple half-mast flying of the American flag, a sense of pride in America is more easily identified on this tragic day.

Yet at Parkway Central, little effort was made in support of remembering 9/11. The American flag flying outside stood at normal height, and a moment of silence never came. Students were not able to differentiate this tragic anniversary from any other day based on anything besides personal knowledge of the date.

As a part of the U.S. education system, we failed to acknowledge one of the events that most greatly altered our country.

While we understand that our school is home to great ethnic diversity and involves students from all different faces of the Earth, it seems both sad and strange that we fail to remember 9/11 together. A day of testing and the business of school got in the way of an opportunity to remind students what it means to be an

American.

In this past month, a shooting in the Navy Yard in Washington, D.C. killed 13, and it seemed no one inside the Central walls batted an eye. Few students found out the event even occurred due to updates on their phone, or seeing the relatively small amount of news coverage. Nothing was said in most classes, the topic neither mentioned nor discussed.

Also currently trending is the hot topic of debate throughout the country of the Syrian crisis. The topic may be complex and controversial, but seemingly no attempts have been made to discuss the issues in Syria and how they affect us as Americans.

Some of us will enter the “real world” in less than nine months, and we feel ill-informed.

We, as the staff of The Corral, acknowledge that we often overlook these same world events in our coverage, as our priority is events closer or more relevant to our school community. Still, it has to come from somewhere Being prepared for life after high school is a topic stressed often, yet the school makes little effort to inform its students of world happenings, a key part of life after high school.

“We will always remember” is a saying constantly heard in regard to memorializing tragedies, but when we fail to make an effort to remember as a community, we risk forgetting our past.

This problem has a reasonable solution. Taking five minutes out of the school day to talk to students about the world outside of Central could work wonders, as a whole or with small discussions in classes.

These current topics equally important to prepare us for, as our mission statement reads, “an ever-changing world.”

Students need jobs during high school Meaghan Flynn Business Manager

sometimes. Having a part-time job teaches you how to adapt to these unpleasant situations. We won’t always get to work with people we like; however, that does not mean that we should walk away from our responsibilities. Learning how to communicate hen you stop and think about it, the purpose of high with others helps your day run smoothly and it will most likely school and college is to prepare young people for benefit your employer. their lives in the work world. But how can we actually Improving your communication skills will help you build prepare ourselves for work life sitting in a classroom all day? We professional relationships with people who could help you can’t. To become truly prepared for employment as adults, it is find employment. After college, you will most likely have debt only logical for students to hold a job before graduating. and other living expenses to pay for. What could be First of all, having a job gives students something better than having a steady job immediately after everyone wants more of: money. It’s not like we graduation? These jobs aren’t guaranteed, but if do this hard labor for free; even if it’s only you are passionate enough about your work minimum wage, it’s more money than you and you develop good relationships with would have without a job. managers, you have a high chance of Parents won’t be around all the time No Jobs earning your way. to give us money, so we need to learn Summer (43%) (27%) Not only can jobs help you during how to pay for our habits eventually. and after college, but they can help Jobs can teach us to be financially you get in as well. Besides grades responsible, which will seriously help and test scores, admissions councils us in the future. will be looking for extracurricular In addition, having a steady, activities too. Jobs offer leadership part-time job gives students the opportunities and a chance to show off opportunity to learn how to work your professional skills. Working during professionally with others. Jobs teach School Year high school proves to colleges that you kids that sometimes you have to sacrifice know how to manage your time and that your personal time for the benefit of your (30%) you will take the initiative to get what you place of work. Although we don’t have any want. These characteristics can definitely make big responsibilities like a family to support, we you stand out in an application pool. can’t afford to be selfish. Jobs teach respect, Students don’t need to work 25-hour weeks *Based on a poll of 100 students. responsibility and organizational skills, all all year long. Jobs during the school year qualities that we need to be successful. Besides just add to the enormous mountain of stress these characteristics, jobs can also teach us time management skills. Balancing work, homework, and social life can students already have. With homework, sports, volunteer work and a social life, it’s already difficult to stay balanced. However, be extremely difficult, but learning these skills now instead of in summer jobs are definitely manageable. Even working once college will be quite beneficial for us. a week during the school year isn’t difficult to do. The work Let’s be honest: we don’t absolutely love everyone we have experience teaches students fundamental life lessons that will to communicate with on a daily basis. Teachers, other students, prepare us for life after high school. family members, and even friends can be frustrating to deal with

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Student Job Statistics

C ORRALC 2013-2014 Staff

Editor in Chief Jason Sobelman

Managing Editor Clare Conlisk Production Manager Lillie Wasserman Business Manager Meaghan Flynn Digital Integration Editor in Chief Nathan Kolker Online Content Editor Matthew Bernstein Online Sports Editor Sam Winter Multimedia Manager Emily Schenberg Social Media Editor Catherine Melvin News Editor Matt Frischer Features Editor Jack Blethroad Opinions Editor Katie Richards Sports Editor Dean Trail Entertainment Editor Matthew Walter Staff Writers Jeffrey Eidelman Joe Goldberg Kelsey Larimore Kate McNeal Kirk Randolph Danielle Serota Matt Stern Hanna Whitehouse Adviser Ms. Tara Stepanek The Corral is a student-written, edited and produced publication of Parkway Central High School, 369 N. Woods Mill Road, Chesterfield, MO 63017; 314-415-7978.

The Corral is given away free of charge to students and faculty. Subscriptions and patronships for one year may be purchased, starting at $20.

The goal of this publication is to provide accurate, informative and entertaining information in the true spirit of responsible journalism and to operate as an open forum for students, faculty, administrators and parents.

The Corral is created on Hewlett-Packard computers using Adobe Creative Suite 5.5 and is published by PressJournal Printing.

Unsigned editorials reflect the views of the majority of the staff. Signed columns and artwork reflect the views of that individual.

The staff appreciates comments and suggestions. Letters to the editor, guest editorials and other correspondence are encouraged but must be signed. The Corral reserves the right to publish or refrain from publishing, as well as edit, all submitted material.

Opinions

Oct. 2, 2013

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School shouldn’t ignore current events

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Tank Top Tuesday launches school spirit Sam Winter Online Sports Editor

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ecord Breaking Seasons. District Championships. AllAmerican Athletes. Our sports have had continuous success over the past few years, but have lacked one main element: A spirited student section.

Unlike years past, seniors have dedicated themselves to a year filled with excellent spirit. Besides the increase in attendance at sporting events, the main contribution to the rise in school spirit has been the infamous Tank Top Tuesday.

Tank Top Tuesday was started by the class of 2012’s seniors, in an attempt to show off school spirit and get everyone involved in a similar trend. Not only has the tradition been successfully passed down to this year’s seniors, but we have been able to expand the tradition to a larger portion of the senior class.

Being a senior myself, it’s definitely encouraging seeing our entire class participate in something together. It is really nice to see us connect before we all graduate.

While Tank Top Tuesday might not be the most important event in the school, it sets a precedent for the underclassmen to follow after the class of 2014 departs. By seeing us all together, they feel the need to join in and participate in the school spirit. Therefore, we are not only bringing together the senior class, but the rest of the school as well.

This kind of participation ends up carrying over to other school functions, like sporting events.

While some may say that Tank Top Tuesday takes away from the learning environment, I believe there is no decrease in study habits or test scores on Tuesdays that could back that theory. I can honestly say that the five minutes a night that seniors spend on Monday nights to pick out their tank top for the next day doesn’t take away from the learning environment. The only effect this tradition has is bringing the school together and adding to the school spirit.

Seniors Speak “I find it really enjoyable to see all my friends cheering me on. It’s a great feeling knowing that everyone has such great school spirit and enjoys watching the game. It really gets all the players pumped up and actually makes the players want to perform to the best of their ability. This has been the best student section I’ve seen since I can remember.” - Ben Fagin (12) “I think Tank Top Tuesday is a great way for the senior class to bond and show off their guns while doing so.”

- Aaron Weisman (12) “I love it! It’s awesome seeing our entire class doing something together.” - Taylor Kennedy (12) “I like it a lot because it brings the grade together and in my opinion, shows the rest of the school who the seniors are. It’s also good because I don’t have to plan my outfit for Tuesdays.” - Katie Rembold (12)

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Opinions

Oct. 2, 2013

Central to host Fall GSA Summit

Jack Blethroad Features Editor

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any students are aware that the school has Gender-Sexuality Alliance, formerly GayStraight Alliance, but how many recognize the importance of this group’s presence at our school?

The rainbow stickers can be seen in the classroom windows, and occasional announcements are made, but few students would be able to describe the function of the GSA and what it has been up to lately. This October, that might change.

On Saturday, Oct. 26, Parkway Central will be hosting this year’s Fall GSA Summit. The event is put on by the Missouri GSA network, an organization that aims to grow and unify Missouri’s GSA’s. The goal of the GSA Summit is to provide a space for GSA’s to network with each other and share ideas, as well as to educate interested individuals about LGBT issues and activism.

GSA sponsor Ms. Erin Rauch believes that hosting the event will play a role in raising awareness among the students.

“I definitely believe that our hosting this event will help reinforce and validate all the hard work our GSA has done, as well as raise awareness and visibility of LGBT students in our school,” Rauch said.

In fact, all of the work done at the summit will be in the context of high schools in Missouri. With dozens of schools represented, everyone attending the event will be able to talk to people from schools similar to their own and hear the perspectives of people from vastly different schools. For example, a high school GSA in the Ozarks might have different challenges than the GSA at Webster Groves. However, they both have an opportunity to learn from each other by sharing their past experiences, successes, and challenges.

What to Expect

One of the biggest changes for this year’s summit is the expected increase in attendance, which will hopefully make the event more fun and helpful for those who attend. According to Morgan Keenan, the director of the Missouri GSA Network, Central could be hosting as many as 150 students from all over the state. He attributed the increase in registration to the addition of new GSA’s to the network, including Fox, Sullivan and Fulton. For the first time in the history of the event, there will be a GSA represented from Hixson Middle School from Webster Groves.

“I am hoping the students get to meet others who are doing amazing things like them,” Keenan said. “I hope they get to make friends out of the experience and connect in more ways throughout the network’s program.”

Junior and GSA vice president Amudha Porchezhian echoed Morgan’s sentiments.

“The GSA summit can be a place for student who come from more LGBT-supportive schools (such as PCH), as well as less supportive schools, to become aware of the different environments and circumstances that exist in schools around the state and learn what can be done to improve the situation as a whole,” Porchezhian said.

A focus of this year will be the “School to Prison Pipeline,” which illustrates the trend of race, socioeconomic class and access to resources playing a role in many students’ success in high school and beyond. To demonstrate the concept, participants will play a game adopted from the National GSA Network called “The K-12 Game of Life,” which will highlight the advan-

tages and disadvantages students have in their primary education.

The informal format of the day is designed to make it easier to be a part of the GSA Summit. The event will run from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., but students can feel free to participate in as little or as much as they want.

Most of the day will be spent in breakout discussions led by volunteers who are knowledgeable and active in Missouri GSA’s. Students will be able to choose which one sounds most interesting and relevant to them. Ideally, a school’s GSA would send one person to each group and have them report back, but it’s totally up to attendees.

Even adults and teacher GSA sponsors will be invited to join in on the workshops. Rauch said she is interested in the experience as well, and plans to attend.

“I plan on attending because I think it’s important to support and encourage all LGBT youth and allies in their attempts to make their schools more tolerant places,” Rauch said. “I admit, I do not know a lot about school push-out, so I hope to learn more about that as well.”

Fun large group activities will also take place and allow attendees to meet like-minded students from all over the state. Lunch will be served, and help with transportation can always be arranged if that is an issue.

Why Central?

According to Keenan, Parkway Central was not randomly chosen to host this year’s summit.

“Central has really seen a resurgence with their GSA in the past couple of years with Sterling [Waldman] leading the group,” Keenan said. “The location of the summit is based on a variety of factors, including the support of the school’s GSA.” He hopes that hosting this event will grow the club even more and provide an easy and fun way for new members to become involved.

Waldman, a MO GSA Net board member, feels the same optimism for this year’s event.

“It will certainly raise awareness in the school, no matter how many students from PCH attend because even advertising for it will raise awareness,” Waldman said. “I think it will grow PCH GSA because more people will see it exists or understand what PCH GSA does and will want to be part of it.”

Rallying Support

The Missouri GSA Network is encouraging all GSA’s involved to promote the event to the fullest extent possible.

“Share the Facebook event, talk to your school paper about covering it, invite your GSA members, use the flyers and post them around school or make your own, invite everyone,” Keenan tells GSA leaders of Missouri.

Porchezhian calls on GSA leaders to make sure they invite heterosexual allies, too.

“GSA leaders should encourage not just their members but also the allies in their schools to come to the GSA summit and learn new things that will help them grow as advocates,” Porchezhian said.

That being said, the very purpose of the summit is to include everyone, and members of Central’s GSA are confident that attendees will benefit from that.

“We are hoping that students learn something about their peers, themselves and their surroundings and that they get what they want out of the summit,” Waldman said.

Parking passes: Criticize but do not ignore

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hose five inches of plastic hanging from the rear-view mirror of a car is a right of passage for juniors and seniors. Being able to drive yourself to and from school gives one a great sense of freedom and responsibility and, coupled with the $75 it costs to get a parking pass, students are getting the taste of adulthood - whether or not they want it.

“We already pay taxes for school,” senior Alexandra Weldon said. “It’s not fair that some students wouldn’t get to drive to school because they can’t afford it.”

Weldon raises a good point: $75 is a lot to ask of teenagers, especially those just getting used to paying for their own gas and insurance for something as simple as having a parking space. She thinks like most: a fee wouldn’t be a ridiculous thing to ask for, but something smaller would be more reasonable. After all, the logical thing the administration spends the money on is just parking lot upkeep.

“We use the money for up keeping of the parking lot, the actual buying of the parking passes, and the money helps pay for the secondary police officer that we hire,” assistant principal in charge of parking Dr. Carletta Harlan said.

The additional costs for the school on top of just maintenance gives a solid reason to the cost of parking passes. According to Harlan, the district will not pay for the secondary officer, but the sense of security and jobs they provide is very important. Evidently the money is not just going into the pockets of our principals but to fair cause. Central’s administration needs the money, and even though student are allowed to protest, they need to pick their methods carefully.

The blatant disregard for parking passes is unacceptable; students who drive to school every day without purchasing a parking pass end up making themselves

miserable. Instead of getting the right of passage they want, juniors and seniors are giving sophomores with a valid license the opportunity to drive to school, effectively dismissing a privilege of being an upperclassman.

To buy the parking passes, the school takes the current year’s enrollment and the previous year’s sales of passes and makes a total. Things that affect that number, such as a drop in enrollment or students not buying parking passes, puts a strain on the school. They need the money somehow, especially for the extra police officer, and to the displeasure of the seniors and juniors, this means giving the sophomores the potential to drive.

“We are strategically checking for vacant spots for a good sense of how many spots we can allow for the sophomores,” Harlan said.

The irresponsibility has already started to have its consequences, as students are deservedly getting warnings and tickets now. But it doesn’t have to be this way.

If the students want change, they need to go about it in a better fashion.

“Students have a right to their opinions,” Harlan said. “But they should learn to be proactive about it and look at it like the district does.”

And with some insight, the students do. After being informed what the money goes to, Weldon said she understands that the money is important, but still thinks they should charge less for a parking pass. If students still feel this way after learning the facts, they need to protest in a way that will not backfire on them and try to talk to the faculty and compromise.

“I think if they charge less for a pass then more people will buy them and they can make the same amount of revenue,” senior Amanda Sherman said. “It’s ridiculous; I know I can barely afford a pass.”

While students might find it ridiculous, the policy stands as it is, unless students get together and thoughtfully do something about it.

Celebrities create negative influence Matthew Walter Entertainment Editor

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ore than a month removed from Miley Cyrus’s “twerkathon” at the 2013 MTV Video Music Awards, it’s hard to get the painful image out of my mind.

What’s even worse is that a wholesome Disney star, also known as Hannah Montana, would transform from a girl singing about overcoming obstacles in “The Climb,” to doing lines in the bathroom and shaking it like at a strip club in “We Can’t Stop.”

Some may say that Cyrus is growing up and wants to grow away from her teenage years and her old life.

What about all of her young fans that used to watch the old her? Recently there’s been a trend of stars setting bad examples for fans.

To all of the Beliebers out there, Justin’s recent actions makes him a character unworthy of respect. Since 2011 he has gone on a spree of bad behavior, including flipping off one photographer and fighting another, speeding through his neighborhood, spitting on fans off of a balcony, peeing in a janitor’s bucket and getting detained for drug possession. Yet somehow, with all the bad examples he sets, he is still a teen heartthrob.

It’s about time that we start distancing ourselves from unworthy idols who gain more fame by doing stupid stuff. The amount of attention Miley received for her

performance overshadowed the performances of other prominent and debatably more talented artists such as Katy Perry and the return of ’N Sync.

Sex appeal is not too uncommon in the music industry. Artists such as Lady Gaga and Madonna have created artistic and raunchy videos throughout their careers and have made a living, but they have done it since day one.

Miley just picked up this attitude and wants to stand out with something that’s been done numerous times by predecessors with more talent.

We should not give respect to stars who fall back on their outrageous acts for attention. Two people always worthy of respect are your parents. Your parents bring you into the world, raise you and provide for you; something no one else can do.

If your parents aren’t enough to look up to, why not your teachers and principals? Their whole purpose in life is to help us learn and get an education for later in life. There’s no better person to look up to than a person who prepares you for the future.

Choose wisely who you respect because it’s stupid when you follow someone who doesn’t deserve any, especially celebrities who are making names for themselves with their bad behavior instead of their good deeds. It’s important to focus on the people who actually affect your life, not money-hungry controversystirrers who never will.

A Lil Crazy

Competitive sports & shame

Lillie Wasserman Production Manager

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arly morning, musty locker rooms and physical movement. Sounds like a delightful recipe for a wonderful day, right? Not to mention confusing rules of sports never played and just a slight pinch of sexism here and there. Complaining aside, being one out of the three girls in Competitive Sports isn’t as bad as I may make it seem in this column. But it certainly is an interesting experience.

Let’s start with the early morning aspect. On B days, this class begins at 7:35 a.m. See, this would be totally cool for someone with normal coordination, but me being my clumsy self, this is a disheartening situation.

The second issue is that musty girls locker room. I have no idea who or what is making the girls locker room feel and smell like Lucifer’s restroom, but that is what I like to call a “situation.” Fortunately dressing out for this class doesn’t take very long. And the other two girls in class can share my pain.

Not so thankfully, dealing with your appearance after this class can be a struggle. Perfumes and deodorants do their job, but figuring out how to deal with post-ponytail hair and trying to get jeans on after physical exertion is dangerously close to becoming an art form. My fellow female classmates can relate, and thankfully making fun of our own appearances and being creative with our resources is a source of bonding and humor in the toasty locker room.

However, combine slightly impaired coordination due to being drowsy with playing a game you’ve never played before and you get one Lillie Wasserman throwing footballs to either the wrong team or in an area with no one in a ten-foot radius. Initially, flag football was daunting, and an unnamed team member may have made remarks such as “women are the worst,” among other insulting comments.

Thankfully, my skills have somehow improved. This may have been because the class switched up teams and I had supportive guys that would occasionally throw the ball to me, or because I decided to stop falling into stereotypes of women being not as great at sports. The main point is that by the end of the flag football unit, I had made two touchdowns and two two-point conversions. And I know what all of those terms mean. So boo-yah.

There will obviously be sexist undertones in any class mainly populated by males, but most people in the class are supportive of me and the other two girls. From hearing their experiences, it seems that they were thrown the ball just as often as the guys on the team as long as they showed effort. This seems like pretty fair criteria to me.

The only sexist, yet advantageous, action that seemed to occur to one of my female classmates is that she would be able to advance far with the ball free of flag-grabbing because guys were afraid to touch her.

Overall, any P.E. class first thing in the morning can be a challenge, especially when playing competitive games. In fact, when I first noticed I was enrolled in this class, I didn’t know whether to laugh or cry. And although the locker rooms aren’t super jazzy, if there’s a room designated for sweaty human beings to store clothing and change, I don’t expect it to be the Ritz. And finally, as long as the hints of stereotypes aren’t full on sexist in this class (which they are not), it’s actually not too bad.

Opinions

Oct. 2, 2013

CORRALC HE

Katie Richards Opinions Editor

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Defensive end achieves lifelong dream Matt Stern Staff Writer

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enior defensive end/tight end Jonathan Bonner achieved a lifelong dream this summer by earning a football scholarship to the University of Notre Dame. Bonner will be heading to South Bend next fall after committing in late June, following in the footsteps of some of his family members who were former Notre Dame football players.

“It would be a nice thing to follow up what they did,” Bonner said. “Notre Dame has great history, they run a great program and, especially with academics, it all fit together really well.”

Bonner was also offered scholarships from other college football programs such as Missouri, Illinois, Indiana, Michigan State, Purdue and Northern Illinois. With the offers in mind, Bonner stuck with his dream to play for Notre Dame.

“Other schools understood that Notre Dame is a huge school to go to,” Bonner said.

“So the schools had no problem with the credit that Notre Dame has.”

A big difference next year for Bonner will be experiencing the strict coaching staff of Notre Dame. Varsity football defensive coordinator Michael Wright thinks Bonner’s leadership will help him a lot.

“Character, behavior, grades in school, citizenship, all those things you look for in a player off the field - and he exemplifies them all,” Wright said. “He’s truly a leader off the field and sets a great example for our guys.”

Not only is Bonner a leader off the field, he is just as good a leader on the field as well, which stands out to the coaching staff.

“Working his rear end off every single play, playing his heart out every day, every play that we have out there,” Wright said. “That’s what we look for: a guy that goes 100 miles an hour, play’s over and does it again on the next play.”

Bonner’s leadership is a key motivator for his teammates, as well as for the coaching staff. Senior center Jason Piles, who has known Bonner since second grade and been his teammate since sixth grade, has been motivated by Bonner and his growth as a player.

“I’ve gotten to watch him grow and see how he has gotten better and better throughout the years,” Piles said. “To watch Jon get sacks every game motivates me to play just

as good as him.”

Bonner’s commitment marks the first time Parkway Central will be sending a football player to a Division I school since Brandon Sheperd committed to Oklahoma State in 2011.

“You’ve got to be dedicated to football, but you also have to be dedicated to school to be able to get to where those guys are,” Wright said. “They made the commitment and really worked hard to get there.”

Bonner expects to make an impact next year with his flexibility and Notre Dame’s need of depth on their team.

“I’ll be at the bottom of their roster, so I’ll have to get in with their coaching staff,” Bonner said. “I’m capable of playing all the linebacker positions, as they mentioned to me, so they can move me all around.”

Quick Facts about Jonathan Bonner - 6’4” and weighs 249.

- Ran the 40 yard dash in 5.03 seconds - 64 tackles and 12 sacks in 2012.

- Ranked first in Missouri and 35th in the country among defensive ends for the Class of 2014.

Knes keeps rolling despite prolonged foot injury Kelsey Larimore Staff Writer

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hile most seniors are still narrowing down their college choices, senior and varsity outside linebacker Trey Knes has a leg up; already committed to Miami University in Ohio for football, Knes can focus his energy on his senior year.

“It’s really exciting that I already know where I’m going so I don’t have to stress,” Knes said. Playing college football has been a goal of his since middle school, adding an extra element to the already energizing commitment.

Knes said his commitment goes deeper than just the football team.

“They definitely have a top-notch coaching staff, but they have a really nice campus, and I’ll get a great education,” Knes said.

Knes is not the only one glad that he is finished with his college decision.

“It’s always a relief for a young student athlete to have that weight lifted off his shoulders when going through the college process,” Coach Scott Davis said.

His teammates are enthused for him as well.

“I can’t wait to see how he performs at the next level,” senior cornerback Ben Fagin said. “Our team is always stronger with him in.”

His hard work throughout high school has paid off, and he now has to give himself a break, due to doctor’s orders.

In an early season practice, Knes sustained a foot injury.

“I have deep bone bruising because someone stepped

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Sports

Oct. 2, 2013

Bonner goes for a tackle in a game against Parkway West. Photo

by Emily Schenberg

on my foot, and I continued to run on it, so it kept getting worse,” Knes said.

Knes has moved from a simple walking cast to a nonweight-bearing scooter that he uses all day. He rests the knee of his broken foot on a pad and uses the other foot to propel himself.

While it’s not the most glamorous way to get around, Knes still has a positive attitude on scooting.

“The scooter is pretty cool,” Knes said. “It’s not fun being injured, but it’s kind of cool to be able to go fast through the hallways and leave class early.”

Although the linebacker isn’t able to help the team on the field, he still strives to make a contribution.

“I just try to help out in any way I can, if it’s grabbing water for the guys or giving them advice on future plays,” Knes said.

Out of the game until at least October, Knes won’t let this slow him down and advises younger players to adopt the same mentality.

“Work hard and don’t give up if you have a goal,” Knes said. “I try not to worry about things and have fun. I like to have a plan, but it’s still good to live in the moment.”

Knes shows off his scooter in the halls while sporting a T-shirt from Miami University in Ohio, where he has committed to playing football. Knes hopes to walk without use of the scooter by the middle of October.

Photo by Kelsey Larimore.

Girls keep pace with coaching change Jeffrey Eidelman Staff Writer

much of the training has changed. He has added a little more mileage weekly because the team is participating in a more elite schedule. new coach usually brings major changes “Our girls have really stepped up to a program, but this year’s girls cross to the competition,” Banta said. “Our country team proves to be different. captains have been better than ever.”

“I have two main principles that I want my runNew assistant coach Mrs. Jennifer ners to think about as they run,” head coach Mr. Meyer has been a positive change for Ryan Banta said, “Give your best effort and be the program, according to the girls. competitive.”

She usually runs with the girls while Even new freshman runners have quickly Banta drives his golf cart around and picked up on Banta’s main principles. Freshman times the runners.

Richelle Bain has not only caught on to Banta’s Banta is the girls track head coach standards, but has learned something that may and says that there is a big difference stick with her throughout high school. between cross country and track. In “I have learned that being lazy doesn’t get you track, there are multiple races, so there anywhere in literally everything in life or compeare multiple chances to recover. In tition,” Bain said. cross country, there is only one race, Senior Elise Gibson, a third-year runner, which makes the mental aspect of it notices that the old-school presence of Mr. Ken more important.

Greathouse is gone. However, according to her, “I want the girls to be able to race Banta was an influential assistant coach and the fast, not run forever slowly,” Banta coaching styles haven’t changed very much.

Senior Elise Gibson and sophomore Sarah said.

According to junior Erin Friesen, another Madsen run in the varsity race at the Fleet According to Friesen, Banta really returning runner, there aren’t any noticeable Feet Invitational at Parkway Central on Aug. knows what he is doing and works with differences in coaching style. However, she said 29. Photo by Tara Stepanek. the runners well. Both Richelle and she is more open to hard workouts and isn’t as Elise agree with those statements. negative as she was last year.

“I think Coach Banta is a great coach,” Bain said. “He encour“He has taught me not to give up and work at what we do,” ages us and he’s really funny.”

Friesen said.

Banta created most of the training as assistant coach, so not

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For updates on fall sports, check out parkwaynews.net/ corral Weekly Schedule Sunday- Softball Monday- Boys and Girls Cross Country Tuesday- Tennis and Golf Wednesday- Volleyball Thursday- Soccer Friday- Swimming Saturday- Football

Underclassman look to score on varsity soccer Emily Schenberg Mutimedia Manager

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ith eight underclassmen on the team, varsity soccer begins its season anew.

“This is the youngest team we have ever had in my 16 years of coaching here,” head coach Mr. John Theobald said.

With six sophomores and two freshmen on the team, the underclassmen play a larger role than ever before.

“Other than being young, they are all really good players,” Theobald said. “They bring a very positive vibe to the team, which is always important.”

Very rarely do freshmen make the varsity team, according to Theobald, but due to the loss of a large number of seniors from last year, two freshman have managed to make the cut.

“It feels great to be a freshman on the varsity soccer team,” said freshman Zach Goldberg. “All the guys have treated me great and are very welcoming.”

Although they bring a positive attitude, there are a few uncertainties about the season.

“Honestly I think we are still trying to figure out what our strengths and weaknesses are,” Theobald said. “Sometimes they are challenged by their size, or lack of it, you could say. We are also a young and inexperienced team, Sophomore Noah Whalen runs through a but we know that will improve as the line of teammates as part of a pregame ritual season goes on. There will definitely be that the team does before home games. some bumps along the way.”

Photo by Lindsey Fafoglia.

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has gone 3-6 so far this season, as of press time.

“I hope that as the season goes on we improve as a team in all aspects,” sophomore Quinn Conlisk said. “I think that if we do that, we will have a great season and a pretty good shot at making it to Districts.”

The underclassmen have been making plays; sophomore Tyler Kendrick scored the game-winning goal in a double overtime win against Parkway West on Sept. 26.

“It felt amazing to score the winning goal,” Kendrick said. “The game was really close all the way to the end, but we played hard as a team and we came out on top.”

The final score was 3-2.

“I think that shows just how we are improving,” Kendrick said. “When you consistantly put in the time and the effort, you will eventulally get Sophomore Josh Konecek sprints to the ball in results and that is what happened.”

The team still has more than half an effort to keep it in bounds during a game against University City on Sept. 25. Photo by of its schedule to play.

“Our hopes are that we continue Lindsey Fafoglia. to improve and work hard in every game,” Theobald said. “We do not need to get caught up in the results. I want to focus on our style and our play, and then we will focus on our results at the end of the season.”

Volleyball adjusts to new challenges Meaghan Flynn Business Manager

porosis of the talus. In simpler terms, Rembold has excessive fluid in her ankle, a condition that must disappear on its own.

“Unfortunately, there is no way to determine when the condiespite an uncommon mix of players, the girls varsity vol- tion will go away,” Rembold said. “I just have to continue my physical therapy until my ankle feels better.” leyball team holds high expectations for the fall season.

Despite her injury, Rembold still finds ways to help out her “When we come together as a team, we will definiteteammates. During practice, Rembold assists with drills, tossing ly be a force to be reckoned with,” senior Zoë Wallis said. “We volleyballs and serving. Even with this participation, Rembold can be really talented when we want to be.” remains disappointed with the length of her injury.

This year’s varsity team has girls from every grade level, “It’s sad that I have grown used to including two seniors new to sitting out of the games,” Rembold said.

Central this year.

“It’s very frustrating to see other injured Senior Mimi Irons said she people recover so quickly when I have has had to adjust to the new had to sit out for over a year.” team environment.

With one girl injured and many new “The hardest part about faces, varsity coach Mr. Tom Schaefer joining a team senior year has had to adjust to the unusual combiis trying to connect with the nation of classes. Schaefer said he has team,” Irons said. “Everyone focused on encouraging the girls to adapt has known and played with to the new dynamic. each other for three years or “The new girls are learning what it is more, but I’m just now coming like to play on a varsity team,” Schaefer and have to learn how things said. “The game is faster; we have to are done.” work harder and pay more attention to Irons said that despite her details.” sudden arrival on the team, she In order to maintain the same level of has built a great relationship competition as their opponents, Schaefer with the girls already. hopes to concentrate on the girls’ of“The girls welcomed me fensive skills. To make up for a lack of with open arms,” Irons said. “It height, Schaefer says the girls must try to feels like I’ve been playing with get as many attacks as possible while on them for years. The coaches offense. even make me feel comfort“The close games are going to come able.” down to whether we can execute offenFreshman Katherine Laue sive drills properly or not,” Schaefer said. agrees with Irons, adding that “We have to make sure we work as hard all of the girls are always willas we can.” ing to give new people advice.

The girls’ schedule includes games Despite being the youngest on against many top-ranked teams in the the team, Laue said the older 3A and 4A divisions. Schaefer describes players have all been very supCentral’s ranking as “outside the bubble,” portive of her.

Varsity volleyball coach Mr. Tom Schaefer instructs meaning they are just outside of the top “There is not a lot of divijunior Makenna Sadler during the game against ten of their division. sion between the grade levels,” Pattonville on Sept. 16. “We have a lot of good Both he and Laue predict that there Laue said. “Everyone gets leaders this year,” Schaefer said. “The returning will be some ups and downs throughout along really well.” players help the new girls feel welcomed.” Photos the season.

In addition to adjusting to “Even if we don’t win them all, we can the new players, the girls must by Tara Stepanek. challenge ourselves,” Laue said. “We may adapt to the game without one not win everything, but we get better by playing more competiplayer. Senior Katie Rembold has had to sit out for the past tive teams.” year due to bone marrow edema syndrome and transient osteo-

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“With all the new players, it’s an interesting dynamic because we are all adjusting to the speed of a varsity game,” senior Zoe Wallis.

Seniors Mimi Irons and Katie Rembold cheer on teammates. “Practices and games are really fun,” Rembold said. “If we work hard, we can do well.”

Steady recruitment, steady numbers

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or the girls cross country program, the most important aspect to keeping enough players involves recruitment of incoming freshmen.

“One of the things that I do for both track and cross country is that I am in really close connection with Mr. [Jon] Hardy and the other P.E. teachers at the middle school,” Coach Ryan Banta said.

After the middle school students take their fitness exams, Banta receives the statistics so that he can recruit the athletes that scored the highest.

“Since both of my sports are based off of fitness and feats of strength and speed, I can target those kids,” Banta said.

To recruit, Banta sends a letter over the summer to the

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CORRALC 24

Sports

Oct. 2, 2013

When numbers are down

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oth the lower level football and soccer teams came into the season with a lack of personnel. According to freshman football coach Mr. Scott Davis, the players are focused on working with what they have.

“Practice is definitely a challenge at the freshman level having low numbers, but we are still able to get good practices in,” Davis said. “The freshman football players realize they have low numbers, but that does not stop them from coming out every day and working hard to become a better football player and a better football team.”

Davis believes that the low numbers for the football team could be due to low enrollment, players focusing on one specific sport or the fear of players getting concussed.

Although the team hasn’t had many players, Davis still doesn’t recruit from the middle school.

“I don’t recruit kids to play any certain sport,” Davis said.

“I just encourage all of the middle school kids to try to get involved in anything school-related - whether it’s football, track, band, etc. The more you are involved, the better your grades are, the better your mental and emotional health is, and makes for a better high school experience.”

Beginning the season with what varsity assistant coach Mr. Brian Adam calls an “OK base of quality players at the freshman level,” the soccer program turned to the younger players to recruit.

“We didn’t have enough numbers to let the better players move up to the higher teams,” Adam said. “We talked to some of the freshman and encouraged them to recruit their friends to come out.”

Because of warm weather early in the season, Adam said that is was cruicial to have more players.

“It gave us a variety of looks on the hot August and September days when we need subs,” Adam said. “Soccer is a sport where we need a lot of people who do a lot of running.

Sometimes it’s hard for freshman to run for a full game but having subs gives us more options.”

Adam said he strongly encourages freshman to try out for new sports.

“Especially freshman year, kids should look at coming out and playing because not many freshman teams cut,” Adam said. “The more that can come out the better.”

Melanie Wilmert (9)

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ore girls tried out for softball and golf this season than in recent years, according to JV softball coach Ms. Amy Connoley and varsity golf coach Mr. Todd Pannett. This boost in players has helped both squads respectively.

“It allows the girls to partner up and work on skills with each other, while we work one-on-one with an athlete or do drills with a small group,” Connoley said.

The more girls that play, the more experience and talent that there is on the team. The coaches said that this helps the team because the more experienced players can help coach the other players while the coaches are occupied.

Having more girls not only increases productivity during practices but an extended bench can be crucial in close games, Connoley said.

“In long, close games, the extra players are great to have on the bench to provide energy to the team,” Connoley said.

Because of an increased amount of athletes, the girls golf team can break out into smaller practice groups.

“It makes it easier for Coach [Bev] Palmer and I to work with each group because there is only three in the group,” Pannett said.

Pannett has used recruitment of middle schoolers to try and get more students interested in playing on the golf team.

“I got some P.E. teachers at the middle school to talk to all the girls,” Pannett said.

Pannett also mentioned that the best way to get more girls to want to play is by word of mouth.

“The biggest method of recruiting is the girls that are currently on the team just talking to their friends and other girls,” Pannett said.

Pannett added that there is no experience necessary to join the team, which helps to encourage beginning athletes to become part of the team.

athletes he wants to participate encouraging them to join the team. After, he has the team captains directly contact the kids so that they feel welcomed by the upperclassmen. If neither of those methods work, Banta said he will introduce himself to them and ask them to give cross country a chance.

“Usually the kids will be very excited about the attention, and as long as you are honest with them about what they can do, then they can fulfill what your vision is for them as an athlete,” Banta said.

Erin Friesen (11)

Nathan Kolker Digital Integration Editor in Chief

Khalen Saunders (12)

Dean Trail Sports Editor

Zack Jin (11)

Fall sports attempt to keep full squads

Natalie Lay (9)

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Photos by Corral staff