Century Star - Issue 4 by Sue Skalicky

century star 1000 E. Century Ave. 58503

December 2009

century star staff The STAR newsmagazine policy

adviser

sueskalicky

web programmer alexroth

editor

amandalittrell

news editor jordankalk

web editor

norahkolberg

artist

opinion editor paulmurphy

managing editor macyegeland

sports editor

greghilzendeger

design editor

breanneskalicky

entertainment editor sammimoss

The Star policy is a document that covers everything from our purpose to our plan of action if something goes wrong. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the staffâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s guideline as to how our decisions are made. The Star is a student-generated newsmagazine published through the efforts and decisions of its editorial board and staff without any prior review. It is produced, edited and maintained by students. It is an open forum for student expression and the discussion of issues of concern to its audience. The Star and its staff are protected by and bound to the principles of the First Amendment, made possible by the Constitution and various laws and court decisions implementing those principles.

events coordinator feature editor alyssameier fiction editor sarahmcphillips

photo editor kristaboehm

copy editor

nikkizimmerman

copy editor

baileycarlson

The Star staff will strive to report all issues in a legal, objective, accurate and ethical manner, according to the Canons of Professional Journalism developed by the Society of Professional Journalists. The Canons of Professional Journalism include a code of ethics the Star staff is encouraged to follow. The Star publishes itself and covers the budget costs entirely through advertising sales, subscriptions and fund-raising projects.

shorts manager marketing manager business manager allithorson

ad designer

kellanstaebell

aleciasmith

reporter

tonyabauer

davidmathern

reporter

briannabrown

photographer

sarahardmeyer

reporter

ambreeshmidt

century.highschoolmedia.org / december2009 / STAR 2

photographer

jocelynnsonnenberg

reporter

tylertkach

Tablecontents News:

Who’s your santa?.......................................................6 News briefs.........................................................................8

Sports: A fresh look....................................................................10 Solo senior........................................................................12

Feature: Searching for “home” ..........................................14 How to: Help..................................................................16 Homeward bound.....................................................17 Polls and stats................................................................19 There’s something about Carrie................20

Opinion:

On the Cover:

century 1000 E. Century Ave. 58503

December 2009

Rants and raves...........................................................22 Editorial...............................................................................24 Paul.........................................................................................25 Alyssa....................................................................................27

Entertainment: Steeping success.......................................................31 Top ten Christmas movies................................34 Winter fashion for him and her..................35

The cover for the month of December features a photo illustration illuminating the difference one can make by lending a helping hand. For the follow-up story, turn to page 20.

Reviews...............................................................................36

photo.breanneskalicky

It’s my life.........................................................................38

letter

editor to the

Dear Editor, I really love the papers you have published this year, but I have one problem. Who is this Andrew Wiseman kid, and why is he always in a story? I can see he is popular and got another mountain lion, dislocated his shoulder in gym, and has good looks, but does he really need to be the main source of information for the other stories? This school has many more kids that could fill his parts in stories, such as the “Turning 18” story in the last issue. Just thought I would point this issue out. Thanks again for such a good paper,

Andrew Wiseman P.S. I heard he was in the ER twice in less than a week in gym class. Just thought I would point out a sweet lede for your next paper’s story!

century.highschoolmedia.org / december2009 / STAR 4

Andrew Wiseman

?hO

Wyour

’S

Santa Divers

k a e r b ity in faith during winter story.tonyabauer&jordankalk&baileycarlson photos.tonyabauer

opcorn is strung around a Christmas tree with presents beneath and a star on top; stockings are hanging on the mantle waiting to be filled, while cookies and carrots lie on the end table with a glass of milk, waiting for Santa and his reindeer. This is what winter break is to many students and teachers, but what about those who aren’t Christian? Christianity, though the dominate religion throughout Century High School, is not the only one. Junior Sara Anderson is a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of the Latter Day Saints, a Mormon church. Anderson was born into her Mormon beliefs but found the truth for herself. Christmas is special to Anderson because it is about the birth of Jesus Christ. “We try to look at the true meaning of Christmas,” Anderson said. “The giving part of it.”

century.highschoolmedia.org / december2009 / STAR

“

{NEWS}

I don’t like that everything has to be politically correct.

Anderson’s Christmas doesn’t involve all the rush of shopping or the stress of cleaning. To her, Christmas isn’t about the presents. “I wish there was a lot more love,” Anderson said. Junior Milee Patel is of the Hindu religion. Hinduism worships Lord Krishna. Though it is not a part of their religion, Patel and her family still celebrate Christmas. “We get a tree [and] open presents on Christmas Eve,” Patel said. “It is something we do.” Senior Katie McCleary, who is Christian, usually has a holiday break centered around her family. Most years she, her parents, brothers, aunts, uncles and cousins all take a road trip out to Billings, Montana. It’s their tradition to open one present on Christmas Eve and then the rest on Christmas Day. “Everyone is lounging, except for in the kitchen where my grandma is cooking everything,” McCleary said. McCleary’s family celebrates more than Christmas during winter break. McCleary’s older

century.highschoolmedia.org / december2009 / STAR 6

brother and grandma have the same birthday so they start the celebration off with a double celebration. One popular symbol at Christmas time is the man in the big red suit. Santa, Old Saint Nick, Kris Kringle, however the people of the world know him, he is the symbol of Christmas. Santa Claus is commonly accepted with Christianity, but what about other religions? “All the holidays are grouped together, so that’s cool,” McCleary said. Patel’s religion of Hinduism doesn’t acknowledge Santa Clause, but Patel’s family does. “We got presents from Santa Claus,” Patel said. “We put out cookies.” Santa is also a tradition in McCleary’s family. McCleary’s older brother swore he saw Santa one year, and ever since Santa has been a legacy within their family. Sometimes religion is not tradition. Atheism is defined as the disbelief in the existence of a supreme being or beings. Junior Keenan Salveson defines himself as an atheist. “I guess [I’m an atheist] because I’ve been

really critical of other people’s religion,” Salveson said. Salveson doesn’t believe in God or any other deity, but he enjoys the holiday season and celebrates Christmas with his Lutheran family. “I like the giving aspect [of Christmas],” Salveson said. “I really respect that.” Salveson believes people should see things for what they are. “I don’t like that everything has to be politically correct,” Salveson said. “People can’t say Merry Christmas [anymore].” Spanish teacher Andee Woodmansee knows about another religious celebration in the winter. She celebrates Hanukkah, a Jewish holiday that occurs each December. “(My favorite) part would be spending time with family and lighting the Menorah,” Woodmansee said. The Menorah is a symbol to the Jewish faith that reminds them of the past their people went through. It holds eight candles because one is lit for each day of the holiday. This year’s

Hanukkah starts on Dec. 11. Even though class will still be in session, Woodmansee plans to still celebrate her holiday. She also will continue celebrating on through the end of winter break with her husband, who is of the Christian faith. “I take a break, I also celebrate with my husband and his family on Christmas Eve and day,” Woodmansee said. She also goes to Jewish services when available. Due to the lack of active Jewish members in the Bismarck community, the services available are usually held on holidays at a nondenominational church. “On some of the holidays,” Woodmansee said. “We go to the GAP Teen Church.” With snow gracing the ground, many families gather, whether it be around the Christmas tree, the menorah, or simply the dinner table, to celebrate their beliefs. They reminisce about the obstacles they have overcome and the ones that lie ahead. Every person has their own traditions, but what’s important is that they believe.

SynagogaLatinres rei for symbolic objects Star of David- A six-pointed star is the modern symbol of Judaism today AtheriskAnchor-

a possible upcoming symbol for Atheists one of the symbols used by Mormon’s; they are said to “anchor themselves to Christ”

Cross- an accepted sign of Christianity, commemorates Jesus’ death on the Cross TrishUla- symbol of Hindus; a trident that resembles a weapon of Lord Shiva Sources: http://athterisk.org/ http://www.freeldsart.com/

century.highschoolmedia.org / december2009 / STAR 7

{NEWS}

Top10

stocking stuffers In case Santa decides to slack this year, here are some items that can fill the empty space.

CA$H- something teenagers constantly need and want.

DVDs- for those days over winter break that someone just wants to cuddle up in a blanket with some hot chocolate and enjoy a movie.

iTunes gift cards- for those music lovers out there who can never have enough iTunes cash.

Socks- seriously, who doesn’t love socks? Plus, they can duel as puppets

Gift cards- though a last resort, they are a great gift to ensure the receiver gets exactly what they want.

Books- the perfect way to pass time over winter break.

Candy- for that girl or boy with a sweet tooth.

Cologne/Perfume- some may think this sends the message of “you smell,” but it doesn’t.

Jewelry- maybe not so much for the guy on your list, but definitely for girls. After all, diamonds are a girl’s best friend. CDs- hey, they are not outdated; they’re great to listen to in the car and upload onto you ipods and MP3 players.

...................................................................................................................................................................................................

short.tonyabauer&jordankalk

Century students experience harsher conditions during the winter. Misjudged time and not realizing ice is present can be the culprit for many vehicle accidents.

Time of the season It’s official, winter has finally hit us. Compared to last year, this year’s season shouldn’t be as bad. But, that doesn’t mean very much. No matter what winter may bring, people need to take into consideration a multitude of probable accidents.

short.jordankalk photos.tylertkach

-Slipping on

ice. Careful, it happens to everyone.

Car accidents

. For some reason, the minute it snows 3/4 of people forget how to drive.

Frostbite and hypothermia. It’s as bad as it sounds.

-Snowball fight gone wrong. Watch out for those have more power then you think.

8-year-olds, they

illnesses

-Other typical . In the winter, people become more susceptible to common illnesses, so get plenty of rest and you’ll be in good shape.

If people do this it will make for a safer winter. Safe tidings to all.

century.highschoolmedia.org / december2009 / STAR 8

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A fresh

look

{SPORTS}

With a new head coach the Patriots are aiming high this season story.greghilzendeger photos.kristaboehm

Junior Justin Ledger brings the ball up court in a game against Fargo South on December 4. The Patriots won the season opener 63-51.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Our mission is to improve on a

daily basis and be competitive at the end of the year.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;

century.highschoolmedia.org / december2009 / STAR 10

he final horn blows. Cheers erupt from one end of the Bismarck Civic Center at the 2009 WDA basketball tournament, with the scoreboard reading a decisive 76-63. The downtrodden Century High School basketball team leaves the court finding themselves on the wrong end of the score; their season effectively ended at the hands of the St. Marys' Saints. One year later the team is looking to turn a complete 360. With new head coach Darin Mattern at the helm and a plethora of players with varsity experience, the Patriots have high hopes for the 2009-2010 season. "The biggest thing is that we've got a group of kids working real hard," Mattern said. "Our mission is to improve on a daily basis and be competitive at the end of the year." The Patriots bring an experienced team to the floor this season, losing just one player from last year's team. Though experience is often deemed a great advantage in sports, Mattern says that it does not guarantee success on the court. "I've never been a big believer in experience," Mattern said. "It's all about how you improve as the season progresses." Though having a veteran squad may not necessarily translate into wins, it is clear that it will serve some benefit to Century. "All the guys know what to expect," CHS senior Garret Jacobs said. "We know we need to be in better shape than last year [at the end of the year]." Mattern is looking to make sure the Patriots will be set to make a strong run at the end of the season. "He makes us work," senior Ryan Buchholz said. "But he's making us better." Mattern brings his coaching tactics from Bismarck High School, where he previously served as an assistant coach. Despite the heated rivalry between BHS and CHS, Mattern is quick to dash any suggestions that being a Demon in the past will have any effect on him with his new team. "Coaching is coaching and kids are kids," Mattern said. "It's not that big of deal. We're all in this together." Century looks to be firing on all cylinders this year. They are hoping to be strong in all aspects of the game as the season progresses and be a team to be reckoned with come tournament time. "We want to be tough to score against on every possesion," Mattern said. "Offensively we want to be a team with great balance." On-court success isn't the only thing that Mattern wants to accomplish in his inaugural season. He also wants the team to develop strong camaraderie. "We want to have great team chemistry," Mattern said. "Regardless if they're a sophomore, junior or senior we want to build strong relationships with teammates." All the work the team has put in has the Patriots going into the season with their sights set high. "We want to play hard in every game, win all the Civic Center games and compete at a high level," Jacobs said.

k Junior Justin Ledger takes a shot over a Bruin defender. Ledger is one of the many players that returned for the Patriots. “We have a lot of experience,” senior Ryan Buchholz said. “We should be able to stay calm under pressure.

Century 2009-2010

Schedule

Sophomore Andre Maund shoots a free throw in the season opener against Fargo South. Maund also saw significant time as a freshman.

12/19 @ Williston 12/28 @ West Fargo 1/5 @ Dickinson 1/8 vs Belcourt 1/12 vs Jamestown 1/15 @ Minot 1/21 vs Bismarck @ Civic Center 1/28 vs Dickinson 1/30 vs Williston 2/4 @ Mandan 2/6 vs St. Marys' 2/13 @ Belcourt 2/16 @ Jamestown 2/19 vs Minot 2/25 @ Bismarck @ Civic Center century.highschoolmedia.org / december2009 / STAR 11

{SPORTS}

Solo senior

This year’s Centahnas dance team is being lead by one lone senior story.macyegeland photos.kristaboehm

The Centahnas performs at a CHS basketball game on Dec. 4 during half time. They are currently preparing for their next performance at BHS on Dec. 19.

“

She’s done a lot of wonders for our team.

century.highschoolmedia.org / december2009 / STAR 12

t takes a lot of dedication and hard work to lead a group, but it takes even more to do it alone. Century High School senior Ashley Gall is this year’s Centahnas’ captain, as well as the only senior on the team. However, this isn’t the first time the team has only had one senior member. “For the last three years we’ve only had one senior,” Gall said. Being the only senior, Gall is said to be doing an excellent job leading the group. “She’s done a lot of wonders for our team,” junior and teammate Kate Link said. Many team members feel they can go to Gall for any help they may need. “I can go to talk to her about pretty much anything,” Link said. She also makes sure her team is enjoying themselves while they’re doing what they love to do. “She knows how to have fun but be serious at the same time,” sophomore and teammate Demory Nunley said. This year isn’t the first time Gall has experienced being a leader, which could be why she’s such an impressive one. She was already leading a group when she was just a sophomore. “She’s been a captain on the JV team before, so she’s had experience,” former Century student and Centahnas captain Kelli Beyer said. Beyer was also the only senior when she was captain last year. The two girls feel differently about what it was like to be the only graduating member. “It was kind of lonely because you can’t share the same experience with everyone else,” Beyer said. Gall, however, isn’t affected in the slightest. “It’s nothing really different [being the only senior,]” Gall said. Being a member of the team for three years now, Gall has proven to be a dedicated teammate and leader. She gives the girls advice while also leading them during competitions and practice. She is successfully leading a group of girls while doing what they all love to do, dance.

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{FEATURE}

Searching for “home” Mark Garcia has been searching for a place he can call his home since early this May. Now, with the help of a local soup kitchen and a kind hearted man, he has that option. Garcia reads the Bismarck Tribune as he visits with his fellow friends at the Soup Cafe soup kitchen. Garcia has been coming here for months and enjoys his time here.

ince he came to North Dakota at the beginning of May mattress and a tent; it was very peaceful. And there I could 2009, Mark Garcia has been in transition to find a place he can have a campfire and invite friends over.” call home. His first home in Bismarck came at the Ruth Meier’s Garcia visits the Soup Cafe soup kitchen on Memorial Hospitality House. Lasting for only about two weeks, Garcia did Highway in Bismarck two to three times a week with his good not enjoy his time there and preferred to live in his car. friend and now roommate Micheal Ellis. He met Michael After leaving Ruth Meier’s, Garcia had through friends at Ruth Meier’s. Ellis is traveled to Napoleon, North Dakota to help “I didn’t mind camping out at on financial disability aid and shares a family build a barn at their farm. While all, I had an air mattress and a his home with Garcia here in Bismarck. he stayed in Napoleon, he made trips to Garcia has lived with Ellis for a little over tent; it was very peaceful.” the the local ice cream shop, The White a month now. Their friendship has grown Maid, every Sunday and a trip over to the immensely over the last month and the Soup Cafe soup kitchen local thrift store and cafe, Anita’s Attic, to buy movies. Garcia is has made their friendship even stronger. The Soup Cafe offers very thankful he had the chance to stay in Napoleon where he a warm place to have a nice meal, a place to worship and a said everyone treated him very kindly. After earning enough friendly atmosphere full of warm and loving people. Garcia money over the two months he worked in Napoleon he was able enjoys each visit to the cafe and loves the company he gets to afford a car and all summer he camped out in his car at Genthere. The Soup Cafe has provided a second home for Gareral Sibley Park, where it only cost him eight dollars a night. cia and an environment that he can feel safe and worship in, “I didn’t mind camping out at all,” Garcia said. “I had an air which he is thankful for, especially during the holidays.

story.allisonthorson photos.sammimoss century.highschoolmedia.org / december2009 / STAR 14

on Foerster grew up in eastern North Dakota on a farm with his brothers. He learned how to weld when he was eight years old. Much later, he had a business where he did soil testing for about nine years. He got married and they had three little girls. He spent ten years staying home being “Mr. Mom.” After they moved to Bismarck, he and his wife divorced. Jon’s passion became buying and selling motorcycles and cars. Jon started riding motorcycles when he was eight, and has been racing for 30 years. In 1999, Jon broke his neck and still managed to win a national championship. During his racing career, he has broken 18 bones and had 80 blood clots in his leg. Due to unfortunate events in his life, Jon has recently become homeless. He sleeps in his car and eats many of his meals at the Soup Cafe on Memorial Highway. In spite of it all, Jon has an extremely positive attitude about his life.

-What is it like being homeless in Bismarck? "Piece of cake, it's a good place to live. You have to get along with yourself real well if you want to be homeless and alone. If you're a dependent person and needy and tell yourself you're a victim, you're going to be. Everything in the world comes from a thought, your thought. And if you don't have someone that you can trust to help you with those thoughts you're going to suffer."

-How do you stay warm in the winter living in a car? "You can run your car every once and a while or you can have a lot of down blankets, or you can have a good sleeping bag or you can get a little plug in heater."

-What is your advice to someone that finds themselves homeless today? "Don't think it's that bad. Figure it out. What are you going to do? Make a plan, get a piece of paper, write it down. This happened to me not because of all these things. Figure out what am I going to do and how am I going to do it. Figure it out in a hurry, too, don't waste time. Figure it out."

-How do you stay so positive? "People. Get around people who are optimistic. If they give you bad advice go the other way. If they drag you down don't go with them. If your thinking a bad thought change your mind, think something else. People are always complaining. Let them complain a little but don't get in pity with them, it will make you sick."

-What are you hope or dreams for the future? "[I'm] going to go to Canada and live up there in the wilderness with the animals"

Jon Foerster reflects on the events that brought him to where he is today. He believes keeping a positive attitude will help him achieve his goals.

"Get busy living or else you're going to be dying."

Riding it out story.breanneskalicky photos.breanneskalicky

century.highschoolmedia.org / december2009 / STAR 15

{FEATURE}

How to: help

This month, the Century STAR gives a few tips on how you can help this holiday season in the community short.amandalittrell photos.sarajohardmeyer Step 1: Find a local charity. a) Online search engines such as http://www.volunteermatch.org can help you find a variety of places in your local area to help volunteer. b) Look through the phone book under the sections Soup Kitchens, Charity and Food Bank. There you will find contact numbers of places looking for volunteers to help, especially during the holidays. c) Go ahead and call local churches and see if any free-will donations or programs to help the needy will be happening anytime soon. Also, asking if they need any extra help during this time of year doesn’t hurt. Step 2: Find out how you want to help. A lot of places offering volunteering opportunities have probably already recieved some help from people around the city, so call and ask what they need help with. If what they’ve got isn’t for you, try another charity you had on your list and see what opportunities open up there. Step 3: Donate! a) Donating to charities around the city always helps, so try places like churches, The Hodge Podge, Seeds of Hope, Dakota Boys Ranch and any other place accepting donations. b) Clothes that are past your years do a great deal for these charities, as well as items like non-perishable food items, books, CDs, furniture and toys. Step 4: Just get out and do it. Not only will volunteering look good on those National Honor Society forms, it will make you feel like a million bucks. Imagine what you can do for someone less fortunate than you, and that in itself is what the holidays are all about. Sources: http://www.goodwillmass.org, http://www.mahalo.com, http://www.volunteermatch.org

Carrie’s Kids by the numbers short.aleciasmith

Carrie’s Kids was founded three years ago. Carrie’s Kids helps children from kindergarten to age 21. Her goal is one on one help for the kids. So far this school year, 270 students in transition have been identified. Of these 270 students, 130 are in school and 13 are working towards their GED. Carrie says the kids ranging in ages 16-21 are the hardest to keep their needs met.

century.highschoolmedia.org / december2009 / STAR 16

Homeward story.madisonbarney photos.madisonbarney

bound

Many Bismarck and Mandan families are struggling for a place to live and call home.

A homeless man sleeps on a wooden bench with all of his belongings. On warm days it is easier to sleep in places like this, but when the temperature begins to plummet the situation becomes far more difficult. â&#x20AC;&#x153;All of my low cost hotel rooms are full,â&#x20AC;? Carrie Grosz said.

hey are the man walking across Divide Ave. and Washington Street. The girl in U.S. history second hour. The little boy playing ship on the playground during morning recess. These are the people in the community living without a home. While most people talk about going home after school, these individuals and families donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t always know where home is for the night, and tomorrow home might be across town, in a different facility or the backseat of a car. Homelessness is not easily seen.

century.highschoolmedia.org / december2009 / STAR 17

{FEATURE} Bismarck, contrary to popular belief, has people living in the community that are homeless. Many do not live anywhere stable enough to call home. Most people who go home to a filled fridge and a warm bed are blind to fact that many go without the basics. Furthermore, what most consider essential would be a luxury to others. “For the most part we are blind to [homelessness] in some matter,” Soup Cafe founder Mark Meiers said. “We all live in our nice warm home and don’t see it.” Different definitions have been given to homelessness. To some, only those who live on the streets or in cars are considered homeless. There are also those who live “doubled up” where their family moves in with another family for financial or other reasons, and many times there is not enough room and not enough beds to go around. Homelessness is put into many different categories and looked at in many different ways, but no matter how it’s looked at it’s a problem that can not be overlooked. “There are easily 300 homeless people every day in Bismarck,’’ Carrie’s Kids founder Carrie Grosz said. Being homeless makes numerous everyday tasks much more difficult. These people are posed with difficult situations every day that stand in the way of them getting done what it is necessary for getting by. “The biggest issue is finding a good paying job that will give them a chance,” Meiers said. “Some are in bondage to drugs and alcohol, or have felonies.” Addictions and criminal records are not the only reason for homelessness. “There are the working poor and the medical poor [those that are put out of work and income because of a medical expenses.],” Meiers said. Another issue is the Bismarck/Mandan area’s drastically changing temperatures. They range everywhere from over 100 degrees to below zero. Living outside or in a car, or being without transportation that doesn’t consist of continually putting one foot in front of the other becomes increasing more difficult when mother nature is working against those trying to walk, and live. “Certainly it is an issue,” Meiers said. “ Because of climate many can’t live outside and in cars.” For students without a home, the pressure of school increases tremendously. When home is

unknown and there is no stability, it’s hard to worry about a history assignment or research paper. “If you think it is tough now, try being homeless, 17, suffering from a mental illness, and pregnant,” Grosz said. “ That is the situation some of these people are in.” As for all teens in every situation, school is loved by some and hated by others. This attitude doesn’t exclude those struggling and without a place to live. For some, school is what they love to do and thrive for, but for many it’s just more on their already piled up plates. Fitting in at high school, as portrayed in every teen movie, is not an easy task. Teens in a homeless situation can’t always cover the fees of fitting in. The fees for extra events, that bring large groups of teenagers together, often exclude those that can not afford the entry fee. “For some of these kids school is life and salvation, for others it is a pain, added pressure, and they feel judged. All of the fees included with going to school are not payable,” Grosz said. “I can help take care of lab fees, but things like dances and homecoming week events are impossible. If you didn’t fit in before, now you really don’t.” Time magazine said that North Dakota skipped the recession. This caused many to flock to the Bismarck area without a home or a plan, to find the jobs the area must have if the tough times were skipped. “I am seeing more and more people without a North Dakota phone number,” Grosz said. Homelessness is often a trend. Yet, it’s a trend that is hard to break. When parents are homeless and their families are unstable, it is difficult to create stability. “Many who grew up homeless still are,” Grosz said. Homelessness often goes unnoticed. Unless somebody is propped on a corner with a cardboard sign and their belongings, the homeless of the community are difficult to see. Yet they must be heard. When asked about how often they see homeless people, three Century High School students had varied responses, but all agree that it is a scarce sight. Bismarck offers programs for those in need of a home. When noticed, the community is generally very giving. Volunteer options are open for those wanting to help those who need help. A wise woman once said, “when you know better you do better”.

“For the most part we are blind to it in some matter; we all live in our nice warm homes and don’t see it.”

century.highschoolmedia.org / december2009 / STAR 18

Q&A

Polls & stats

short.jocelynnsonnenberg&sammimoss

124 Century students were polled about their awareness of homelessness- here are their answers

34%

25%

of students think there are 701+ homeless people in ND

The real story:

of those polled think that there are less than 25 students in-transition

44%

of students believe the Soup Cafe serves over 81 people a day of students polled

30%

say there are 101-200 homeless people living in Bismarck

According to the ND Homeless Population Point in Time Survey of 2009

987

homeless people in ND

people are served at the Soup Cafe every day

81 of those are less than 18 years old

276

homeless people live in Bismarck and surrounding areas

.........................................................................................................................................................................................

Homeless support short.jocelynnsonnenberg

Become a part of the solution by working to eliminate homelessness. Here are some major organizations that dramatically help our surrounding community, and how you can help them. Welcome House, Inc. -Faith-based organization set out to help women and families who are homeless How to Help: donations/basic items are always needed. For a list of these items or other ways you can help go to www. welcome-house.net/How_to_Help. html Shelter Plus Care (S+C) -Provides rental assistance for persons with disabilities

Ruth Meiers Hospitality House -Provides food, shelter and support to assist homeless and low income people to achieve self sufficiency How to Help: fill out an application to volunteer at www.rmhh.org/volunteer Abused Adult Resource Center -Helps recovering abused adults and get them on their feet again How to Help: volunteer by calling the office at (701)222-8370 Community Action -Helps people help themselves How to Help: volunteer by calling (701)2582240

How often do you see homelessness in Bismarck? -Junior Steven Baker: “Once or twice a month.” -Sophomore Cassie Walth: “I see them hitchhiking a couple times a year.” Junior Morgan Frerking: Not very often, but more than once a month. Senior Tiffany Shiu: “Once every three months.” Sophomore Coleman Spilde: “Not very often.”

Homeless facts

There are 750,000 people are homeless in the U.S. There are 300 homeless people in Bismarck Mandan every night. There are two ways to classify homelessness: 1.Those living on the streets and in cars. 2. Those doubled up in homes or staying on couches. Source: www.Crossroadsri.org

Causes -inability to afford rent -unemployment -history of substance abuse Some include: -bad credit -criminal record -family break-up -medical problems -mental illness -money management problems Service needs -permanent housing -transportation -medical/dental -food/hot meals -storage

century.highschoolmedia.org / december2009 / STAR 18

Behind the long, curly hair and friendly smile, there’s just something about Carrie that sets her apart from every other working woman in Bismarck. By serving the individual needs of hundreds of residents around town, Carrie Grosz, wife, mother of two and one of the direct reasons her ‘kids’ go to school in the morning, has become one of the city’s most well-known females. “She cares deeply about kids,” Century High School assistant principal Lee Ziegler said. “I think it’s awesome.” On top of all the things Grosz cares about, the students and their education rise above all. Grosz heads the Students in Transition program in the Bismarck Public Schools that helps students ranging from kindergarten to senior year accomplish the goal of graduating and moving forward in life. “I’m not going to set you up for failure,” Grosz said. For students that aren’t as fortunate and struggle to find a place to call “home”, Grosz’s volunteer program, Carrie’s Kids, may be the beginning path to helping them find their way. Carrie’s Kids was started three years ago during Trinity Lutheran Church’s 40 days of Community. During these 40 days, her main goal was getting simple donations such as gas cards, hairdryers, and clothes for people ages three to 21. After Trinity’s 40 days of Community ended, they adopted Carrie’s Kids and made it a full-time program. Since then, her volunteering efforts have grown immensely, leaving Grosz wanting to do even more. “Homeless is a dreaded word,” Grosz said. “That’s just cruelty.”

story.amandalittrell&nikkizimmerman photos.submitted Grosz finds her kids from a variety of sources, whether it be an older sibling or a school teacher. The student usually does not know how she found out about their situation because Grosz sees it as unimportant and refuses to let the student know. Before taking any action, Grosz will go out of her way to find out as much as she can about the child and their individual situation. Her first thought is to find out if there is a way to mediate them back home, and if that isn’t an option, they are asked what they would be willing to do. “A lot of kids don’t know where their safe is,” Grosz said. Since the topic is often a sensitive subject, Grosz makes sure that her kids feel comfortable and that each one realizes they are just as important as any another. She creates a special bond with each of them and is constantly checking up on each one, whether it be in person or via text, just like many mothers do. “I’m a momma bear,” Grosz said. “I’ll get right in there.” Carrie’s Kids not only makes sure that each individual has a safe and secure place to rest their head each night, they make sure that every individual has the kind of shampoo they prefer, clean clothes, food, and other necessities. But, not only are each of their needs met, the organization makes sure each one is able to get involved in extra-curricular activities, such as sports. This often-times provides stability and helps the students realize that they are not any different than their peers. “They’re not tagged; there is no beaming light on

Bismarck resident Carrie Grosz sheds light on young individuals trying to find their place

There’s something about Carrie

{FEATURE}

them,” Grosz said. The majority of the time, these students are not in transition by choice. Often-times, not only are they going through the stress of looking for a safe place to dwell, they are usually dealing with much deeper issues, whether it be with themselves or with their family life. This is where Carrie’s Kids and Students in Transition overlap; by showing a student the endless opportunities provided, it allows for individual growth. “Every kid is important,” Grosz said. Among the many who volunteer and donate to the Carrie’s Kids program, Grosz’s daughters, Katelyn, age 14, and Amanda, 16, contribute not only help, but moral support as well. “We will help her organize donations and with the Girls Club,” Century High School senior and daughter Amanda Grosz said. Fully-equipped with two cellphones, two email addresses, one website and a multitude of followers, Grosz still remains to keep her head high on her shoulders. She’s the complete definition of busy, but still finds time to make a difference in each of the kids’ lives. “We’re all busy, we try to have meals together everyday,” Amanda said. “We try to pick up when she’s gone.” Whether it be finding someone a place to eat over the holiday season or just being at home with the family, it’s quite obvious that Grosz loves what she does. “Today works for me, tomorrow might not come,” Grosz said. “Today is what happens.”

The students involved in the Magical Moments program are not only given the chance to have the clothing needed for their prom, but Carrieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Kids makes sure that their whole night is something to remember. This includes providing a prom dinner for those who are unable to spend the money on dining out.

century.highschoolmedia.org / december2009 / STAR 21

{OPINION}

Why? Why must people decorate for Christmas before Thanksgiving even begins? Don’t get me wrong, I love all the lights and decorations, but I also love to enjoy turkey day to its entirety. We have a whole month between Thanksgiving and Christmas, is that not enough time put up your tree and hang those decorative lights around your roof? So please, take into consideration the feelings of the pilgrims and wait until after we enjoy our turkey to put up your tree and hang your stockings. Tonya Bauer

Driving in the winter has to be the absolute worst! The ice on the roads, the snow that sticks to your tires. It’s just not fun! You have to watch where ice is, be careful around corners, and even obey the speed limit more. I miss the summer driving where you can have the windows rolled down and the music up. Now it’s cranking up the heat and listening to Christmas music. Brianna Brown

It really annoys how the day after Thanksgiving every radio station, regardless of their usual genre, thinks they need to play Christmas music every other song. I listen to the radio for a reason, and it’s not to hear Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree or Winter Wonderland. I understand that it’s the Christmas season, but if I really wanted to get in the holiday mood I could easily pop in a CD, but I won’t, and there’s a reason for that. Greg Hilzendeger

I’m usually late. Actually, I’m almost always late. And when I’m running late in the morning, the last thing I want to do is scrape frost off my car. It’s like cold, mean saran wrap that magically envelops my car every night while I’m sleeping. It refuses to come off. Even worse, if I do manage to get it off with my pathetically dull scraper, it slowly regenerates itself on my way to school. This mutant frost needs to stop. That, or I need a better defroster. Norah Kolberg

RANTS It finally happened. The moment I’ve been dreading. My gas light went on and instantly, my day is ruined. Not only do I know I’m going to have to spend upwards of $35, I will also have to freeze my face off. I pull up to the gas station and, with much hesitation, get out of the car. I grab the cold, metal handle and a chill runs through my entire body. This is quite possibly the worst feeling ever. As if the cold freezing my nose and fingers off isn’t enough, I have to do this many more times this season because, wouldn’t you know it, you run out of gas faster in the winter. Awesome. Macy Egeland

I’m not a huge Christmas fan, but if there’s anything I love about the season, it’s the tree ornaments. Hallmark starts displaying them in July and they keep getting better as the countdown to Christmas continues. There are mini jack-in-the-boxes, light-up snowmen, a pair of shoes that actually walk, Optimus Prime: if you can dream it, they make an ornament out of it. Guaranteed. Actually, we can skip the presents this year. Just get me that bombin’ light-up Cinderella castle ornament with the mini moving carriage and I’m good to go. Norah Kolberg

My iPod Touch is my lifeline; seriously, without it I’m lost. It’s entertaining for hours on end. I do anything from color Curious George, browse the Internet or, of course, jam out to my favorite tunes. The saddest moments in my life revolve around car trips when I either forget it or the battery goes dead. Take it from me, if I do, it’s not good. I will become irritable. Jordan Kalk

I love Christmas Eve. Sitting around the tree with my family brings that warm, fuzzy feeling to my heart. This is the one time of the year that my family: just my mom, dad, brother and myself, get together with no arguing or debating about pop culture, world issues, or stupid matters that are meaningless. I look forward to these few hours where we open presents, eat my mom’s famous turtle cookies, and enjoy our time together before we get back to our debacles. This is, and will continue to be, my favorite evening of the year. Tonya Bauer

RAVES She doesn’t knit, crochet or fall asleep while standing. She is the one, the only, Gamma! Having my dear grandmother by my side for two weeks this month has brought my heart great pleasure. From countless hours cuddling on the couch to watching my poor canine be stripped of his manhood, my gamma and I had a blasty blast. We sang to Celine Dion, drove down icy hills, listened to Christmas music and went to Hot Topic all in just ten days. The thought that I won’t see her for another year brings tears to my eyes, but whenever I need me some g-ma, I will think about the wonderful week and three days we got to spend together being besties. Amanda Littrell You know those nights that are cool enough just for a light jacket, where the snow is falling in big huge flakes and you just want to run outside and play in it? Those nights hardly ever come, but when they do they are absolutely amazing! I love tilting my head back and feeling the snow fall on my face. Brianna Brown

{OPINION}

Homeless for the holidays During our fourth issue, as a staff, we had the ability to gain a new perspective on the issue of homelessness, especially in our schools and community. Often times homelessness, and even just the term in general, has a negative connotation. The homeless are often seen as alcoholics, drug addicts, or felons. We have all learned that this is in no way entirely true. Although some may be homeless because of choices they have made, others havenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t had the ability to choose not having a place to rest their head. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve been able to see a different side to the homeless and have gained a new-found respect for many of the families and individuals. As the holidays approach, those misplaced, whether they have been struggling for years or since just recently, have a lot harder time than anyone in attempting to make it a happy holiday season. With all the judgment we tend to send their way, including all the jokes and rude looks, they deserve a little more respect from all of us. So, maybe instead of wasting our energy and time on trying to avoid them, we could volunteer our time and do what we can. Whether it be making an item donation, or donating your time, anything is abundantly appreciated, especially during the holidays. After all, the only thing anyone truly wants is to feel that they matter to someone, and that may be the greatest Christmas gift you could give.

photo.alyssameier Donations given to bell ringers in the holiday season provide a Christmas dinner, clothing, toys and so much more for over 4.5 million families in need. Gary and Alexandra Walters spend a portion of their holiday season volunteering their time as bell ringers in the Kirkwood mall.

century.highschoolmedia.org / december2009 / STAR 24

Standing Bets

For a lack of confidence

column.paulmurphy

disgust. Streams of syrup spurt out the sides ’m a gambling man, if the stakes are low enough. I enjoy the thrill of chance but not of her mouth and, as if only just arriving to an so much the repercussions of losing. What this oasis after a lifetime of desert wandering, she takes her puffy fingers and tries to sponge it means is that the only person I ever really back into her mouth. A waitress is about to make bets with is myself. It’s perfect really: come over and ask if I’d like dessert but, after win and I get to feel confident and sharp, lose and I take solace in the fact that all it seeing what I’d have to look at while eating it, decides against it. A wise means is another part of me move. was the winner. A win-win “It’s the kind of thing The restaurant is loud situation, if there ever were that annoys me, if only but not by comparison. one. Gambling of any kind because the stories I tell “Oh, that’s right,” he 40 year is never a wise move, so I old voice booms, and she limit my self-bets to only when are so different.” greedily licks her fingers moments of boredom hit their then picks up talking right where she left off. peak and right now definitely qualifies. As Whether she’s a friend of a friend of my parthe fully grown adult in front of me smacks ents or an acquaintance of the person who her lips and shoves the overflowing spoon invited me to dinner, I have no idea. What I into her mouth with all the tenacity of a do know is that, in the past hour, she’s paused three-year-old, I hold my breath. Fingers, toes only to eat her dessert, a brownie so colossal and arms crossed, I wait. Like a mantra, the that I can’t help but imagine it being airlifted bet bounces around in my head: no way can into needier countries, where underfed chilshe keep blabbering with all that chocolate dren would hoist it onto their rickshaws and in her mouth. She chews for a moment and cart it back to the then turns her focus back towards me “Now, where was I”? My mantra fades, replaced by internal groans born partly of defeat, partly of

century.highschoolmedia.org / december2009 / STAR 25

{OPINION} family hut for a chocolaty feast. Watching her eat that sugary mess is the very opposite of appealing, but it’s still something I would ordinarily be able to manage. Her eating while talking is another matter entirely. Her raspy voice grates and claws at my ears in pain that can only be equaled by the actual content of her conversation. “I have quite a following, you know,” she says, and she has as much trouble keeping the gloating out of her words as she does keeping the chocolate inside her mouth; both are keeping my hairs on edge. Her “following” supposedly comes from her being an artist of some sort, though what this means is anyone’s guess. She’s the type to throw a word like that around loosely and it wouldn’t surprise me if her “art” was in making frozen waffles or tying her shoelaces. Every so often she breaks from boasting and tells me stories about her life that really serve as testimonials to paint her as a wonderful person. One such tale involved her at the office when the fire alarm started. “Everyone panicked,” she tells me. “But it took me just a moment to get a hold on the situation.” She details how she sprang to life and gave her orders. “I said ‘you, get the door’ and ‘you, start a head-count.’” As she speaks, she points at her imaginary subordinates, a syrup-stained Patton addressing the troops. “And everyone got out. Lucky I was there to take care of it.” “Oh,” I asked her. “So it was a real fire?” “Well...no. But if it had been...” She tells a few other stories, but they all basically say the same thing, each and every one of them a shining example of her rising to the occasion, gallantly making the world a vastly better place simply by being in it. So much of how I define a person doesn’t necessarily come from the content of the stories they tell but from the selection that they choose to tell me. While her stories all had the theme of taking command and knowing how to handle a situation, I could only see her as someone who needed others to respect her, to look up and idolize her. It’s the kind of thing that annoys me, if only because the stories I tell are so different. I rarely do anything worth boasting about and so, when I do spin tales, they’re usually about me the way I

century.highschoolmedia.org / december2009 / STAR 26

really am: flawed, awkward and nothing worth emulating. I’ve never felt the urge to paint myself as glorious, and the stories I tell are almost always about my mistakes, ones that I rarely learn from. As I sat seething in a steam of contempt for her ego, I found myself wondering just what my problem was with her being the hero of her own life and was slightly disturbed when I couldn’t quite find a sufficient answer. No way could it be envy, though I was feeling less sure by the moment. I tried to convince myself that there was no way I felt any longing towards such conviction but no matter how much I tried, I kept coming back to that conclusion. It ultimately made sense, that someone who lacks the gall to make bets with anyone besides themself would find appeal in the confidence to make stories where they play the role of hero. She continued talking for a bit longer and, once the bills were paid and the tips argued over, told me that she enjoyed our “conversation” and I nodded as wordlessly as I had been the whole night. She turned and walked away; the plate that held her brownie couldn’t have looked cleaner if you dish-washed it. A few minutes later and I prepared to leave myself, glancing down at where the plate sat and said aloud, to no one in particular, “I bet I never have to see her again”. No one took me up and it wasn’t much, but it was a start.

“Time brings all things to pass” -Aeschylus

column.alyssameier

he lullaby created by a steady tapping of my fingers on the keys makes it difficult to stay awake any longer. The light from my laptop reflects on my face in the dim room where, lying in bed under my blankets, I attempt to convince my body that I’m asleep instead of working furiously to finish the paper that’s due in the morning. For days I had let the paper sit and gather virtual dust on a blank word document on my computer, and now I was suffering for it. I was in the hands of my sleep deprived mind, trying as hard as it could to produce work above a fifth grade reading level, with no significant amount of success. Over the years I’d developed a poor, but very significant, habit of procrastinating on almost anything and everything I could put off, and now I was going to suffer for it. There I was at three in the morning on a school night, fighting against my body’s instincts to fall asleep, constantly checking the slowly growing word count, and begging for time to slow down for just a little while. Time can be good or bad, depending on the situation one is in. Having a few weeks to do a paper is an example of when time is on your side for the most part. Having five hours to do an entire paper, on the other hand, clearly is not. It’s difficult to go a day without acknowledging time in one form or another, whether it’s because we are running

behind or trying to plan ahead. Time has more power over us than many, including myself, often realize. Even in small ways, like judging how much time to spend lying in bed on Saturday mornings before finding the motivation to give up, or just watching the clock for the entire 50 minutes of class, hoping we can force it to move just slightly faster. Time is the reason that some people treat the hallway like a racetrack, while others merely crawl along looking at every one of the posters hanging on the walls. Time is constantly affecting everything and everyone on earth. People spend their lives thinking about a million different things in their past that they cherish, miss, or merely hope they were able to forget about. We think about how long ago something happened, how long it lasted, or how long it should have. It is still a mystery to me why all the good moments we have in life seem to last for a much shorter time than all the bad ones. Why can’t the days when we are feeling down pass by quickly and leave us instead with hours of joy? I believe the majority of people’s stress comes directly from time. The pressure it puts on us, the moments it ends for us, and the control we all know it has over us. I have never been fond of someone or something else having power over me. I should be able to have the greatest say in what I do and when, and knowing that time is truly one of the primary contributors to my life did not sit well with me. I have had to force myself to realize that no matter how badly I desire to be completely independent, I may never be free from time’s grasp. It’s things like this that make time seem like the enemy, but something this influential on us should be something we are at peace with. Time is one of the most important factors in our daily lives and one that cannot easily be

removed from them. Even if we choose to ignore time in general, it will still be there, moving along with or without our consent. We buy it. We spend it. We watch it. We waste it. We don’t know what to do with it. Sometimes we want more of it. Sometimes we want less. Often, we don’t even know how much we really have. Time is the foundation on which our days are built upon, the guardrails on the roads of our lives keeping us on track and inside the boundaries we might otherwise cross. Time is there so people have something to depend on. Just as the hands on a clock revolve around the center, as people our lives revolve around time. People wander through their lives searching for things that they can rely on, whether its people, places or something as basic as time. Time doesn’t stop for anyone, and this may be one of the primary things that helps us heal in times of trouble. Time keeps things moving and forces us to push forward no matter how badly we want to stay in place. If we didn’t have time there to keep us going and keep us living our lives, would we? When things get hard, or when we get scared, its easy to just take cover and try to hide from the world. If it wasn’t for the fact that we know we have things to do and only a certain amount of time to do them, we might have just stopped living our lives completely. Time gives us a reason to get up in the morning and work towards letting go of the past, even if we don’t know it.

century.highschoolmedia.org / december2009 / STAR 27

{FICTION}

Artist of the month short.kristaboehm

Samantha Paterson Junior, Age 17 What is your favorite art to do? I like oil pastels. I like to paint with acrylics and water colors, anything sparks my interest. What inspires you? Everyday life, everything that happens, life in general, and just being happy. Who is your favorite artist? Why? Andy Warhol, I went through a streak of his colors. I like how you can make something look interesting by changing the hue of the color. How did you get started with art? I’ve always really liked art. I enjoy working with my hands. Why do you make art? I make it because I have to. If I didn’t I would be filled with so much emotion, I wouldn’t know what to do with myself. What art classes are you taking? I am taking Art III. Where do you want your art to go from here? I want to go somewhere beautiful.

century.highschoolmedia.org / december2009 / STAR 28

Senior Kascaundra Heiser Senior Chelsey Krecklau

Sophomore Alexis Brick

century.highschoolmedia.org / december2009 / STAR 29

ok charge At practice today, I to , my coach of the team. Afterward from. asked where that came My answer was easy. TAKE CHARGE OF YOUR LIFE IN THE NORTH DAKOTA ARMY NATIONAL GUARD.

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Steeping success story.sammimoss photos.sammimoss

siasm for their tea bar kee One familyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s enthu ps customers coming day after day Take an overwhelming passion for all things, add a loving family, motorcycles, compostable cups and 87 joy-infused flavors of tea and it can only amount to one thing: Steep Me. Owned by Jerry and Terisina Hintz of Bismarck, the Steep Me tea bar has been attracting new customers every day since its opening on September 4, 2008.

century.highschoolmedia.org / december2009 / STAR 31

{ENTERTAINMENT} “They are so warm and welcoming,” Century High School graduate of 2000, Audra Highley said. Highley has been coming to the tea bar for only two months and already feels at home. “Terisina and Jerry have become like a second family to me,” Highley said. “...I love it.” The couple’s passion for whatever they do drives them to keep experimenting, taking risks and always treating their customers like their closest friends. “Everyone should have something they’re passionate about,” Hintz said. The Hintzes’ passion and personal involvement with their customers is what sets them apart from businesses similar to theirs. Technically, Steep Me is a tea version of popular coffee shops. However, being a small business, Steep Me is able to support a handful of local artists from jewelers to potters. Not only is Steep Me supporting the art scene, but it is also supporting the environment. Nearly everything in the store, from the cups to the garbage bags, is either biodegradable or made of recycled material. “[People] appreciate [that] we’re not a franchise,” Terisina said. The Hintzes’ decision to open up a tea bar that would be in competition with big franchises like Starbucks and also other locally-owned coffee shops was a risky one, but it has paid off in full. “We didn’t have to go out of our way to choose tea,” Hintz said. Hintz and Terisina originally considered opening an exotic spice store, but as they began researching different spices, they noticed tea was showing up quite frequently. After a year and a half of research, and falling in love with the history of tea, they decided they were ready to dive headfirst into Steep Me. The health benefits of tea have long been a part of the beverage’s history and it was one of the things that drew the Hintzes to the business. “[With tea,] we can actually help people,” Hintz said. “That’s what we get excited about.” Aside from the joy of helping their customers and meeting new people every day, the stresses of being the parents of five and business owners can be smothering. Everyone has their own way to deal with stress and, for Hintz, it’s riding motorcycle. Motorcycles don’t only take me places geographically,” Hintz said. “They take me places emotionally.” Proving that big-city drive can find a home on the plains, this family has managed to follow their own passion and share it with everyone who steps foot into their cozy tea bar. Every day they manage to do exactly what they love, exactly they way they want to, whenever they want to. “Well, what are you passionate about?” Hintz asks.

century.highschoolmedia.org / december2009 / STAR 32

Tea jargon Learn the lingo so next time you’re in Steep Me, you’ll know exactly what to ask for. short.sammimoss Green tea- Probably the most well known tea, green tea often has a light flavor Tea Latte- tea (that often tastes like coffee or chocolate) with soy milk or regular milk added Black tea- refers to the color of the tea leaf and the stronger flavor; is not the same as black coffee Agave Nectar- Steep Me uses only natural sweeteners in their tea. Agave nectar is much sweeter than honey and sugar Honey- Basically, the bee’s knees when it comes to sweeteners Steeping- the process of making tea, just like brewing coffee Bubble tea- As odd as it may sound, tapioca pearls in fruity, creamy tea is actually delicious

Cozy furniture, the warm scent of tea and a welcoming atmosphere all make Steep Me the perfect place to study or hangout. “Every time my girlfriends want to go out I say, ‘Let’s go here!’,” CHS graduate of 2000 Audra Highley said.

century.highschoolmedia.org / december2009 / STAR 33

{ENTERTAINMENT}

Top ten Christmas movies of all time short.tylertkach photos.kristaboehm

10.

The Polar Express (2004): An adventurous story about a boy who is taken on an eventful train ride to visit Santa Claus on Christmas Eve.

9. 8.

Die Hard (1988): Bruce Willis plays John McClane as he travels from New York to Los Angeles to spend time with his family. With all the action, drama and humor, it remains a tale of redemption.

The Santa Clause (1994): Tim Allen must become Santa Claus after the old one vanishes. This is a great comedy filled with fun, joy, and holiday spirit.

The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993): This spooky, animated musical film is about Jack Skellington, the pumpkin king of Halloween Town. He discovers Christmas and takes steps to try to create his own version of it.

Home Alone (1990): A boy gets left home alone after his family takes off on a winter vacation. While the family is out, two crooked men decide to break into the boy’s home, so the boy prepares his response for them.

5. 4.

National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation (1989): The Griswold family prepares their yearly Christmas fixings, and many curious adventures occur along the way: in-laws, sledding, putting lights up, and all their traditions.

Elf (2003): Will Ferrell plays the role of an orphaned boy who is raised as an elf in the North Pole. He eventually discovers that he is not really an elf, and must go on a journey to find his real parents.

Gremlins (1984): A teenager receives a furry, cuddly animal called a Mogwai for Christmas. After failing to follow three simple rules, the teen suddenly has to deal with little, destructive gremlins.

A Christmas Story (1983): This is a movie told almost entirely from the mind of a young boy during the 1940’s who wishes of getting a Red Ryder BB gun for Christmas.

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It’s a Wonderful Life (1946): A man makes a wish that he had never been born because he is going through some hard times. The wish comes true and soon he discovers what is important in life.

Winter fashion for him & her short.sarahmcphillips photos.sarahmcphillips

Scarf: TJ Maxx $16 Mittens: Herbergers $15 Moccasins: Wal-mart $12

Bangle: Charlotte Russe $5 Necklace: Forever 21 $7 Purse: New York & Company $18 models.jesseemerson&kaydeschafer

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{ENTERTAINMENT}

Vikings vs. Bears game review.ambreeschmidt photo.ambreeschmidt

I’m walking outside the dome wearing my #69 Allen’s jersey. It’s complete chaos outside; everyone seems to be running on pure adrenaline. The energy of this place is amazing, but I find the people there most interesting: all diversities, all different attitudes, all taking a day off from their busy, crazy lives to come here and let loose. The crowds around me are bursting with excitement, loud music is blaring, and the flashes from continuous picture taking is blinding me. Making my way down the stairs through the crowds of people I finally find it: my seat, thirteen rows back from the field. The Bears are introduced, the crowd boos loudly, and the air fills with angry, competitive rage. Within the first four seconds of the second quarter Bret Favre #4 makes a 15 yards pass to Percy Harvin #12,

putting the score at Vikings 7, Bears 0. The crowd can’t manage to stay seated; they’re usually on their feet, jumping and shouting and giving high-fives. The second quarter consisted of the Vikings still in the lead with a touch down and a field goal. The Bears score with a pass and fumbled a kickoff. By the third quarter the Vikings are still going hard and the Bears are really lacking on their defense. The Bears score with a field goal and so do the Vikings. In the fourth quarter, Vikings’ player Adrian Peterson #28 makes a touch down and throws the ball into the crowd. People tumble over each other trying to get their hands on it. The Vikings win, as expected, 36 to 10. The game was a rush. It was exciting, fun, and probably the best game I’ve been to yet.

A Christmas Story review.tonyabauer photo.tonyabauer

With its notorious tongue stuck to the flag pole scene and the famous “you’re gonna shot your eye out” quote, many people think of A Christmas Story as the perfect holiday movie. This story of a family’s Christmas ups and downs narrates how the holiday brings families to gether in peculiar ways. This movie, with its quirky leg lamp and witty one liners, brings a laugh to everyone young and old. However, when one looks back, what is the movie really about? Though it has a few memorable moments, does the movie as a whole really stick in the mind and make a huge impression? No, its just the day on TBS. With a mediocre story line and a drab 90’s feel, everybody should be thankful they only play this movie one day a year.

century.highschoolmedia.org / december2009 / STAR 36

The Blind Side review.briannabrown photo.briannabrown

Michael is a homeless teen from the slums that is taken in by a wealthy family. Sandra Bullock and Tim McGraw play the parents that take in Michael. They give him good schooling, a home, and an opportunity to go to college. They teach him how it feels to have a family and learns to be on a team. He at first has troubles playing football but by the help of his team and new mom he soon learns how to take charge in the game. Michael starts having troubles in school and has no support by his teachers. Sandra Bullock will do anything to make sure he can do his best and gets him a tutor so he can pass the school year. This movie is based on

Star Trek review.sammimoss

Being partial to Star Wars, I’ve always considered Star Trek a dull wannabe. Being that the director of the new Trek movie pulled much of his inspiration from the movies based “a long time ago...in a galaxy far, far away”, it’s no wonder that I absolutely loved it. The movie follows a young, arrogant James T. Kirk (Chris Pine) as he joins Starfleet, irks Spock (Zachary Quinto), sneaks aboard the USS Enterprise, and traverses the galaxy at warp-speed. Director, J.J. Abrams (Lost, Fringe) creates a whole new universe while staying true to the original 60s TV show. The use of camera flares (little bursts of light from the corner of the camera) and special effects make a person feel like they are actually on the ship. The impeccable acting and brilliant writing only added to the realistic feel of the whole film. With little shout-outs to the original Trek, including several roles for Leonard Nimoy, the original Spock, I’m sure not even the most devoted Trek fan could be disappointed; I wasn’t

true events. The movie is filled with laughs and tears. You can really learn to appreciate what you have and learn to not take things for granted. This would have to be my personal favorite movie that Sandra Bullock has ever been in. She shows the most amazing emotion in this movie to really make you know how the actors feel. She shows the love that one woman can have towards a person most would look down upon. When others were dragging him down she gave him the hope to live the life he wanted.

Starbuck’s white chocolate mocha review.jordankalk photo.tonyabauer

As the winter progresses and the atmosphere is covered in a sheet of white snow, no student honestly wants to leave their home. Nothing can cure their winter blues; nothing except maybe a white chocolate mocha. The instant it is sipped down the throat it’s like walking in a winter wonderland. The chocolate adds perfect taste, but not so much as to diminish the full coffee appeal. Add a shot of hazelnut or even peppermint for a special treat. You can design your own drink and it’ll be ready in less than ten minutes. Check it out, there’s no harm in trying.

century.highschoolmedia.org / december2009 / STAR 37

{ENTERTAINMENT}

Junior

Jasmine Bernhardt The Century Star takes a look into junior Jasmine Bernhardt’s intense life of skating story.aleciasmith photos.submitted

“Dream as if you’ll live

forever,

live as if you’ll die today.”

‘ It’s my life

Bismarck Capital Ice Chips

Camel Spin

century.highschoolmedia.org / december2009 / STAR 38

-Jasmine has been skating since age nine. -Jasmine’s signature move is the cannonball spin. -Jasmine’s nickname is Jazzi -Jazzi’s favorite performance was at the 2008 ice show, when she skated with Karly Knudson to Van Halen’s song “Jump”. -The Capital Ice Chips, Jazzi’s synchro team, placed second at the St. Cloud competition; she also recieved first place for an individual competition. -Jazzi’s hero is Marilyn Monroe. -Tennessee is the farthest place Jazzi has traveled for skating, it’s also her favorite skating trip. -Before a competition the team has a spaghetti dinner at someone’s home. -She works at Herberger’s in accessories, selling purses and jewelry. -Jazzi says her favorite value in people is humor. -Jamie Bernhardt, her mother, is Jazzi’s biggest supporter.

THE DIFFERENCE IS ME 80+ Fields/Programs of Study in: w Business w Information Technology w Communication Arts w Social Science w Education w Fine Arts w Mathematics w Science w Health w Physical Education

Alex Granfor Bismarck, ND

www.vcsu.edu MDU Resources believes a good education is key to a successful future. The MDU Resources Foundation granted more than $120,000 to fund scholarships at area colleges in 2009.