Central Focus December 2009

Holiday volunteer cycle questioned p. 8 - Health care still divides p. 10

Coffee becomes necessity in student culture

Fitting finals in Lacking motivation, students wait to study at last minute, despite negative results

Sensations succeed

FRANCIS HOWELL CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL VOLUME 13 ISSUE 4

Liquid life

Pommers place first at Lindbergh Invitational

Start the press Mulholland creates old-fashioned printing press

12.17.2009 Photo illustration by Zac Hebert

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Central

Focus

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FocalPoints

A 25-year-old Malaysian woman was arrested for having a honey bear and a leopard ... in her condo. Talk about close quarters.

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The Spartan Athletic Band is generating excitement at all home Varsity basketball games. Come support the teams and feel the excitement for yourself.

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The National Park Service and St. Louis Mayor Francis Slay launched an international design contest on December 8 to redesign the grounds surrounding the Arch.

Get your picture taken with the real Santa at Santa’s Magical Kingdom in Eureka, next to Six Flags.

See all of your Tunes for Troops favorite Christmas is an organization characters in Old St. Charles that collects old music after closing hours.

Meet Tiny for soldiers overseas.

Tim and Jack Frost!

Tri-M Music Honor Society is taking donations in the band Sketchysanta.com room, 006. has all the awkward, hilarious Santa Claus photos of the season.

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The Ladue-based The South Butt was recently sued by The North Face, which the store mocks.

Unfortunately for The North Face, the lawsuit only increased sales for its knockoff.

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An Oregon man was surprised when he discovered a kitten in the wheel well of his SUV. In addition, he had just arrived from a 120-mile trip. It was a long, cold ride for the 3-month-old kitten.

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During a wedding, the bride and groom changed their Facebook statuses at the altar to tell the world that they had just gotten married.

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Letter from the editor I t’s what students drink in the morning or

The multifaceted personality of coffee

the night before a big test. It’s what they captures our culture. It reflects what we enjoy.

become addicted to. It’s what brings them together for conversation.

As fall is quickly turning into winter, the Central Focus digs into all that coffee has to

Coffee has become embedded into high offer. Its side effects, social draw, and culture school culture. More than just its taste has are explored in this issue as the staff searches made it a necessity for some students.

for the reason why coffee is so prominent in

Whether or not you are a coffee addict (I, students’ lives. personally, hate the taste of coffee—I swear

Sincerely,

I’ve tried to like it), you can most likely identify with at least one aspect of coffee.

Kayla Mugler Page designed by Jesse Patch and Allie Corrier

Photo by Zac Hebert

A white coffee cup rests on a uniquely decorated table at Picasso’s Coffee House, located at Jefferson Street and Main Street in historic St. Charles.

Picasso’s was opened by owner Chris Schulte and decorated with STICKS tables and chairs.

Superintendent retires See page 4 | Black Friday sales organized See page 5

Wired Hittin’ the books Studying all night proves to have negative effects on grades

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By Alaina Babb Wired editor

I

t is 11 p.m. the night before finals. Sophomore Kari Bensinger is still awake studying for finals and will be for a few more hours. She has had at least four coffees and energy drinks and will have more the next morning before the test.

Like many other students, Bensinger is stressed about her finals and is willing to spend over eight hours “cramming” the night before, meaning she will dedicate her night to studying subjects and will retain as much information as possible before the big test.

Please read more | FINALS , PAGE 6

Photo by Kelci Davis

Freshman Andrew Henke sits on the couch in the Spectra room studying for his finals, such as Spanish. In the past, Henke crammed the night before in order to pass his final exams.

International Club takes care of family in need

By Brittany Kinealy Staff reporter

Each year, the International Club pitches in to help local area families in need. The club worked with Saints Joachim and Ann Church in St. Peters to help two Hispanic families this year; both of them live in the area.

The club collected money from foreign language classes to give to the two families. After a week of donating, more than $1,200 was raised. The money will go to various items the families need this winter.

“The families have a wish list which we look at,” said Spanish teacher and club sponsor Mrs. Katie

Lozano. “That’s usually clothes, toys and houseware items like pots and pans. We also provide the families with a Christmas dinner.”

Every teacher in the world language department has gotten involved this year.

Spanish teacher Mrs. Debbie Gubany passed around a stocking for her students to place money in. Mrs. Gubany offered students a chance to donate specific items to the two families, including such essentials as soap and laundry detergent.

“Students are taking things off of a gift list,” said Mrs. Gubany. “My fourth hour class alone volunteered to bring in ten items.”

Adopting a family has become a tradition in Mrs. Gubany’s room.

“I’ve been here for nine years and we do it every year,” said Mrs. Gubany. “We [teachers and International Club] get together and wrap the presents to take them to the family...they appreciate it.”

The students have taken their own actions to improve the lives of these two families, as well.

Junior Claire Friese is a member and has helped out with the AdoptA-Family program this year.

“It feels great to give back to those in need,” said Friese. “I like helping out my community and the people in it.”

Page designed by Alaina Babb

Photo by Chelsea Carroll

Megan Schneier, an International Club member, wraps presents for the family adopted by the club this year. The club raised more than $1,200 and gave presents such as teddy bears, clothing and toys for the chidren, as well as clothing for the parents.

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Wired

December 17, 2009

FHCtoday.com

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Resignation comes early Early announcement by Dr. Schuster provides time for transition

By George Yu Copy editor

Having served the Francis Howell Central School District as its Chief Executive Officer for four years, Dr. Renée Schuster will retire at the end of this current school year.

Dr. Schuster made the announcement of her retirement on the Oct. 26; the Board of Education approved of her decision to leave in its following meeting. This rapid notification by Dr. Schuster allows the District ample time not only to find potential candidates, but to assist the new superintendent in her transition. The Board will not rely solely on the community to hire a superintendent, according to Dr. Steven Griggs, the district’ts chief human resources officer.

“The Board has decided to enlist the services of the Missouri School Boards Association (MSBA) to recruit and hire the next superintendent,” said Dr. Griggs.

According to its website (msbanet. org), MSBA’s board of directors consists of local school board members throughout Missouri.

These directors are elected to their position. “[MSBA has] a process in place whereby the position is announced across a wide range of possible candidates,” said Dr. Griggs. “They also talk with the Board and/or the community regarding characteristics that are desired in a superintendent, then help to screen applicants that have these characteristics.”

Dr. Griggs and other officers who serve the district’s board are searching for a superintendent that will actively pursue the mission and vision of the district, as established

by both the community and the Board.

“Francis Howell is an excellent school district that has a positive reputation in the St. Louis area, and in the state,” said Dr. Griggs.

“Because of this, I am sure that our district will attract a wide range of qualified candidates for the superintendent position.”

The current schedule has set March 5 as the date that the new superintendent will be hired. The actual contract will be established two months afterward. Once hired, the new superintendent will receive Dr. Schuster’s assistance, in addition to the rest of the Board’s.

“I plan to work closely with the new superintendent to ensure a smooth transition by sharing information about the District’s strategic plan and current programs, policies, and procedures,” said Dr. Schuster. “We will be able to meet together until June 2010 and then I will be available by telephone for additional help with the transition.”

The new superintendent will have to accept Dr. Schuster’s current obligations. “[The superintendent is] responsible for the leadership of all functions within the District which include Academics, Human Resources, Finance and Operations, Communications, and Technology,” said Dr. Schuster. “[The superintendent works] closely with the Board of Education to ensure that we have an excellent public education for all children within the District.”

The principals and Board of education collaborate with Dr. Schuster to keep the District running

File Photo At a Board meeting, superintendent Dr. Renee Schuster listens to candidates running for Board of Education positions. Dr. Schuster announced her decision to retire in October last year, the district is still in the process of searching for a new superintendent.

smoothly.

“She is my direct supervisor,” said principal Dr. Sonny Arnel. “We meet frequently during the year to evaluate my work in this school; she’s done a really good job of aligning our focus on education, not only on high school, but on K-12.”

After retirement, Dr. Schuster will keep her options open, not necessarily staying in Missouri.

“My retirement will be good for my family because my husband will be able to expand his job search to Chicago and we may both be able to have jobs there,” said Dr. Schuster.

She plans to continue in education, whether or not she moves.

“I have enjoyed working with Dr. Schuster during her time with Francis Howell,” said Dr. Griggs.

“I wish her the best for her and her family as they move on to a new chapter in their lives.”

DECA 10 reaches out to sophomores

By Alli Keisker Staff reporter

This year, DECA has started off fresh with new T-shirts, new members and now DECA 10.

“DECA 10 is like pre-DECA. It’s to help [the sophomores] out and get them excited for next year,” said DECA secretary Taylor Kitchen.

The DECA club is now allowing sophomores to join DECA 10 without taking a marketing or business prior to joining in the club

because it is hoping to get more people involved in DECA for years to come. DECA is an acronym that stands for Distributive Education Clubs of America and is one of ten organizations listed as a Career and Technical Student Organization by the United States Department of Education.

“Students should join DECA 10 because even if you aren’t planning on going into a business career, it helps you prepare for your future,” said

DECA president, senior Hannah Artman. “If you get involved as a sophomore, then you’ll hopefully like it and continue being in DECA for your years in high school.”

The DECA club is an international association of high school and college students that helps students pursue their desire in a career in business, merchandise, management or marketing. It was designed to help the students with self-motivation and self-discipline. It also is supposed

Page designed by George Yu

to encourage students to assume responsibility for self-improvement.

The club and its students individually have accepted many awards.

“A lot of people signed up, so we are having a party for them in a few weeks and that’s where we will see who is interested for sure,” said Kitchen, a junior Many names have been recorded on DECA’s sign-up poster that was located outside the cafeteria; many sophomores are interested in joining

DECA 10.

By signing up for the “preDECA,” they can make the decision later on if they would like to join and continue DECA next year through a business or marketing class. All students taking Marketing I or Marketing II are required to participate in DECA. “We’re trying to get sophomores more involved, so there are more students in our DECA chapter next year,” said Artman.

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FHCtoday.com

December 17, 2009

Wired

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Warner coat drive warms families Winter Warm-Up collects, donates coats through local stores

By Alli Keisker Staff reporter

Photo by Zac Hebert

A Warner Winter Warm-Up collection sits in the school hallway. The collections began in November, with local places such as Walgreens and Custom Cuts participating.

Eight years after it began, the Warner Winter Warm-Up still continues strong. The organization has collected approximately 75,000 coats since its inception.

Kurt and Brenda Warner began the Warner Winter Warm-Up in 2001 and have continued to do it ever since. The Warner’s First Things First Foundation was created that year, which is a public charity that tries to create and provide trips for sick children to Disney World, build recreation centers, help children’s hospitals, host football clinics for individuals with special needs and help single parents in their hope for owning homes.

The charity has helped families in Missouri, Arizona and the Warners’ home state of Iowa.

The Winter Warm-Up is a way for the bi-state St. Louis area to collect as many coats as possible to give to the needy. The Warners have collected a large number of coats for both children and adults.

“The dedication of the community

was awesome and resulted in a lot of warmer bodies last year. We are hoping this year’s expanded drive will continue to build on that success and bless even more people,” said Brenda Warner, according to www.ofsearch.org.

Kurt Warner and his wife want to make sure every person has a coat, and that is why The Kurt Warner First Things First Foundation and Operation Food Search have worked side by side with the Metropolitan Police Departments in Missouri and Illinois areas. The organization will accept coats of any shape, size or color, but its greatest need is new or gently used coats for children.

Local residents are asked to donate to participating locations such as Walgreens on Central School Road, Highway K, Old Highway 94, Zumbehl Road, Mid Rivers Drive and Jungermann; Custom Cuts on Mid Rivers Drive, Highway K, Zumbehl Road and Salt Lick Road; FedEx on Mexico Road and Highway K; the police station on Grand Tenton Drive; and credit unions on Centre Pointe Drive, Old Muegge Road and

Mexico Road in the local St. Peters and St. Charles areas.

There are more than 340 dropoff locations in the area listed on the Kurt Warner website, www.kurtwarner.org/warmup.html.

“For the past four years, Warner’s Warm-up has brought attention to the plight of so many living in poverty,” said Sunny Schaefer of Operation Food Search, according to www.ofsearch.org. “The coats collected do much more than provide warm outerwear for people. They let them know others care.”

These coats will be donated to schools, social services, food shelters, and orphanages. The ninth annual Warner’s Warm-Up Coat Drive took place Nov. 16-29, but coats will be accepted up until the start of the new year.

Kurt and Brenda Warner hope to continue collecting even more for those who are desperately in need of the coats. For more information on Warners’ Warm-Up, visit www.kurtwarner.org.

To host your own coat drive, contact 877FIRST13.

Black Friday continues to draw shoppers

By George Yu Copy editor

It is 3:45 a.m. and the alarm clock goes off. Fumbling for the off switch, junior Andrew Tedder disables the alarm and rises from his bed.

At a time when most people — especially teenagers — are sound asleep, Tedder and his family quickly move into their car and out to the nearest Target. They eagerly join the line outside, even though there are about 200 people in front of them.

The people driving by Target are not surprised to see Tedder waiting in a long line at Target, at 4 a.m., in the cold, in Kansas City.

It is Thanksgiving break; Tedder’s family is in Kansas City visiting relatives. People in line are waiting for Target’s Black Friday sales. “[There were] maybe 400 by the time it opened,” said Tedder.

The moment the 400 people have been waiting for arrives at 5 a.m. Target opens its doors and is inundated by customers.

Moving swiftly, Tedder approaches the electronics department. There,

“

If there was a

good deal, I would do it again. ”

— junior Andrew Tedder

he finds the deal that his family set out for. They purchase a 32” highdefinition TV for $240.

Before leaving, they also buy a vacuum cleaner for $20. Although Tedder had never participated in Black Friday shopping before, he believes the trip was worth the bargains.

“If there was a good deal, I would do it again,” said Tedder.

Also starting his day earlier, senior Cameron Aldrich did not have to wait in line; he was a Kohl’s employee. Kohl’s opened at 5 a.m.

“I worked at Kohl’s as a bagger, as well as doing some other small, odd jobs,” said Aldrich.

Kohl’s served hundreds of customers that morning; most came during the first two hours.

“There were probably around 50 [employees]”, said Aldrich. “We had enough people where those who have been working for hours can take a break and have each spot filled. We had multiple customers say that the organization was much better than other businesses.”

Senior Heather Brown, who worked at JCPenney, had a more hectic experience.

“There was so many people that I never saw the same person twice,” said Brown. “There was not enough workers and we had a special person to check out people, so that the rest of us could help all of the people.”

The economy usually benefits from the increase in spending during Black Friday. Even with much lower prices on costly items, businesses are turning a profit.

According to BIGresearch, there were more than 147 million Black Friday weekend shoppers.

However, the spending habits have changed. Consumers are purchasing

Page designed by Alli Keisker

Black Friday shopping facts u It was about 30 degrees when most stores opened early Friday

morning. u Many people who shopped on Black Friday were actually just comparing prices. u Some local malls did not get as large of a crowd as usual. u Shoppers spent 0.5% more money than last year on sales. u The average amount of people who did online shopping rose 35%. u QVC earned about $32 million in Black Friday sales. u Walmart remained open 24/7 due to a death last year in NYC.

Sources: KSDK, STLToday.com

Photo by MCT Campus

more smaller-ticket items, such as digital photo frames and laptops.

This year’s Black Friday also saw earlier opening times; some stores opened as early as midnight. 15

percent more people were up before 4:00 a.m.

“This year was better,” said Aldrich. “It was very organized and very efficient.”

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Wired

December 17, 2009

Finals

from page 3 “Finals are very, very stressful,” said Bensinger. “Especially the honors classes. I’m really worried about those.”

As well as the stress factor involved with finals, many students, like senior Rachel Pulley, find themselves with little time to study due to jobs or other extracurricular activities.

“If you studied for 10 minutes a night for every class, you’d be studying for 70 minutes a night plus the regular two to three hours of homework,” said Pulley. “Honestly, I just do the study guide and cram for it in the morning.”

While cramming for a big test seems to be the best option for busy, working teens these days, the effects of cramming can seriously affect their grade.

According to a study done by the Associate Professor of Clinical Sciences at the University of Houston, Sujit S. Sansgiry, PhD,

students with high test anxiety that cram all night long will not only stress themselves out, but also have a higher percentage of receiving a failing grade.

“

Honestly, I just

do the study guide and cram for it in the morning. ”

—senior Rachel Pulley

Dr. Sansgiry stated that this is due to the fact that most students will only retain what they have studied most recently, if they have not studied over time.

As a part of this study, Dr. Sansgiry also asked students how they felt in the exam, and those who had crammed overall felt more panicky and sick than those who had spent a few minutes every night studying.

FHCtoday.com However, even with this information, students like senior Cameron Aldrich do not plan to change their cramming habits.

“I know I’ll stress out, but I just don’t have the time to study every night,” said Aldrich.

So, if you are planning on cramming the night before the final, here are some healthy tips to help you be relaxed and ready to retain information.

First, make a plan and prioritize what information is most important and what information you do not already know.

Then, devise a time schedule of when you will study what. Make sure that you plan at least a five minute break for every hour of studying, otherwise the task will become monotonous and boring.

Make sure to eat healthier snacks like apples and to drink water instead of caffeine to stay energized all night.

Finally, bring a friend or two to help make the studying process fun and more exciting to do.

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Photo by Kelci Davis

Andrew Henke studies for his semester final exams. Most students who crammed for finals intend to do it again, despite the negative effects.

Arete process is lacking See page 8 | Health care debate rages on See page 10

Heard Be

Unwrapped

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L

ook at what Christmas has become. What should be a celebration has turned into a heart attack waiting to happen. Filled with enraged shoppers, greedy children and apathetic families, the Christmas season has been stripped of any spirit

By Kayla Mugler or cheer.

Managing editor The creators of Advent Conspiracy, a

Local leaders show others the true meaning of Christmas

Please read more | ADVENT, PAGE 9

Photo by Kayla Mugler

Advent Conspiracy is a movement advocating a change in perspective at Christmas. Windsor Crossing Community Church in Chesterfield was the host of the event on Nov. 11.

Methods of torture prove unethical Torturing terrorists is unnecessary in American government Quick, effective and necessary.

This depiction of terror is seen in television dramas and other medias.

Unfortunately,

By George Yu the institution Copy editor of torture is corrupting, murky and immoral.

Governments and other agencies mainly use torture for punishment and extracting information.

Neither of these ends are justified by the means; torture is prohibited by both the Geneva Convention

and the 8th Amendment of the United States Constitution.

Victims of heinous crimes have strong emotions towards their culprit.

Their anger may lead them to punish the criminal by torture, but this does no good to anyone. Torture will not erase horrendous memories or reverse unjust deaths.

“An eye for an eye makes the whole world blind,” said Mahatma Gandhi.

Criminals that have committed atrocities should be jailed without any chance of parole.

When they are in jail, they are removed from the society that they

are unfit to return to. They will no longer be able to affect anyone. This alternative is a much better solution to torture as punishment.

Recently, there has been controversy over the United States’ previous usage of waterboarding in extracting information from terrorist suspects.

The practice of waterboarding is pouring water into a suspect’s air passageways to create the sensation of drowning.

The United Nations has explicitly banned waterboarding. President Obama has made waterboarding illegal, even when torturing al

Qaeda terrorists.

Those who are accused of a crime have rights that cannot be trampled on. If the government can torture any suspicious person, almost everybody would be at risk.

In addition to its unethical nature, torture is ineffective. Whether physical or psychological, torture inflicts enormous pain.

This pain soon becomes unbearable.

A memo on CIA interrogation methods was published in 2002.

The memo stated that nearly all waterboard trainees are incapable of withstanding the pain.

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When suspects are subject to such agony, they will say anything. An honest innocent plea can instantly change to a desperate guilty plea. Although torture may provide information, it cannot provide accuracy.

There is no merit to torture. It does not return what is lost, nor does it retrieve information. Many governments and international organizations have condemned its use in any situation.

Torture needs to be demolished for human rights to flourish. Immediate action should take place to abolish torture and prevent its future use.

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December 17, 2009

FHCtoday.com

Staff cartoon by Zac Hebert

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Arete requirements lack necessary rigor Pillars make many students complacent

Staff editorial: Volunteering

Volunteering goes beyond holidays

E

very year around the holidays, the mood of the entire country is altered. The morale is high and everyone seems to be on cloud nine.

The holidays bring a general sense of good feeling, and once they are in this holiday mode, people tend to lend a hand to others who are not as fortunate as themselves.

During this season, the number of opportunities to volunteer seems endless with the Toys for Tots, Adopt-A-Family and Winter Warm-Up organizations, just to name a few.

While these are great opportunities, the main objective of these affiliations is to provide some kind of relief for families strictly around the holidays.

The holidays are rough; families are in need, but this does not mean that our desire to help others should extend only through a month or two out of the entire year.

If they need our help now, they will need our help that much more throughout the rest of the year.

There will always be people in need every single day, and many other volunteer opportunities outside of the holiday season will benefit those in need.

Just as there are many ways to help others during the holidays, there are even more ways to serve the rest of

During each semester, the announcements start coming on about the Areté Pillars. Each semester is the

By Jesse Patch same thing.

Staff reporter “Make sure you get your Areté applications in on time.” It makes me sick to my stomach. Areté has become something that has no worth in the school or community.

The benefits of Areté no longer include recognition for achieving the highest level. People qualify for doing things that they already do. You never hear someone talking about how hard they are going to try to make Areté next semester.

People do it just for the free T-

shirt, the free food and the free play time that they do not have to spend in class.

People say that Areté is always on a half day because teachers do not do anything in their classes on half days anyway, but the real reason that we do not do anything in classes that day is because there are too many kids missing.

Teachers cannot move ahead in their classes because there are too many people gone in a class period.

Then, they cannot move ahead in any other class either or else they would leave other classes behind.

Areté stands for Always Reaching Excellence Through Education, but how is this representing education when education is actually being forfeited?

Some serious changes need to be made to the Areté program

before I would ever consider being a part of it.

The requirements need to be raised so that it is near impossible to do it twice in one year.

That would increase the work that needs to be done to become a part of it and would increase the prestige of it. I am okay with the community service pillar, but then who ever applies for that one?

Another thing that would greatly improve the Areté system would be going back to having the students be nominated by a teacher rather than just filling out their own self-righteous forms.

Right now, Arete is there to serve oneself. With the right changes, Arete could become a dignified part of our community instead of the education failure that it currently is.

the year.

Habitat for Humanity, Big Brother Big Sister and volunteering at food pantries are just a few simple ways to give back to your community in an ongoing effort to help others the entire year.

Big Brother Big Sister is an ongoing program that matches high school students with middle school students who are in need of some mentoring.

This more permanent kind of volunteering is a way to connect in a bigger way with your local community.

Go ahead; fill your December calendar with charity services and volunteer projects. Drop your change in the cans of the bell-ringing Santas and Salvation Army volunteers. Send your unused coats to underprivileged families.

However, after winter break quickly speeds by, continue to have that mindset of helping out your community, because these people are in need all of the time.

Photo by Zac Hebert

Oasis Food Pantry volunteer opportunities are endless.

The fall Arete recognition breakfast is held during 2nd and 3rd hour on a half day, usually in October.

Breakfast was served to all the students by a local catering company.

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FHCtoday.com

December 17, 2009

BeHeard

9

HOT BOX LOVE IT 1. Deck the Doors 2. Cans Film Festival at Wehrenberg 3. Christmas break

4. George Yu’s high SAT score

Photo by Kayla Mugler

LIKE IT 1. Holiday flavors at Starbucks 2. Interstate 64 project completed 3. Band and choir concerts

4. Sensations placing well

LEAVE IT 1. Mid Rivers construction traffic 2. Inconsistent 93.3 FM 3. Adam Lambert performance

4. Tiger Woods drama

Web Poll

What is the best part of winter?

50% “The holidays”

Windsor Crossing pastor Greg Holder, St. Louis Cardinal Albert Pujols and Todd Perry, executive director of the Pujols Family Foundation, share a laugh as they speak about the foundation at the Advent Conspiracy launch event. The event, which took place on Nov. 11, was aimed at awareness for the Advent Conspiracy movement, which involves “spending less, giving more, loving all, and worshiping fully.”

Advent from page 7

movement aimed at renewing the purpose of Christmas, got it right.

Their vision includes a holiday season enriched with life-giving, relational gifts that actually mean something.

“When we take the risk of giving this way, it’s worth it,” said Greg Holder, the pastor of Windsor Crossing Community Church in Chesterfield.

An Advent Conspiracy launch event took place at Windsor Crossing on Nov. 11.

St. Louis Cardinal Albert Pujols attended to speak about the Pujols Family Foundation, which exists to help children with Down syndrome in St. Louis, as well as needy children in the Dominican Republic.

While Pujols is famous for his

Major League Baseball talents, he understands his life should not consumed by personal fame and glory.

“It’s not about me anymore,” said Pujols. “My job is to change lives.”

Pujols understands the Conspiracy.

While every news and sports channel focuses on his grand slams, they overlook the true miracles going on behind the scenes: children’s lives are being changed.

“There’s something greater than baseball that the media’s missing,” said Todd Perry, executive director of the Pujols Family Foundation.

The Conspiracy is not exclusively for those with ample influence; rather, it is for the average. It is for anyone. It is for everyone who cares.

“We all want to be a part of something that is bigger than ourselves,” said Tony Biagi of Windsor Crossing.

Instead of spending hundreds of

dollars on obligatory gifts that their recipient will either return or forget, we can give presents that will bring a smile, presents that will create a memory.

“America spends an average of $450 billion a year every Christmas,” said adventconspiracy.org.

Pastor Holder suggested at the launch that we should give more by spending less. “Buy a bag of coffee beans, for example,” said Pastor Holder. “Give it to someone with the requirement that they can only drink the coffee from that bag when they are with you. Cook dinner for your family. Give your friend a photo album that you can fill with memories.”

The key to Advent Conspiracy is love. Consider actually loving your friends and family; consider actually loving your enemies.

“If each one of us just takes a step, can’t we change the world?” said

Derek Glanvill, corporate president & CEO of McCarthy Building Companies Inc., another speaker at the launch event.

I think we can change the world.

Embrace the Conspiracy.

Photo by Kayla Mugler

Greg Holder lifts his hands in emphasis. Holder introduced the concept of Advent Conspiracy.

School creates cushioned environment I have had my license for about a year now. Next November, I will be able to vote in the election; I will also

By Ted Noelker be up for the draft.

Multimedia editor But despite being able to purchase tobacco products within the confines of school, I will still be considered too irresponsible to choose what I want to drink.

Apparently, consuming a regular sized Gatorade or non-diet soda would be health suicide.

Fortunately, I am protected by a panel of caring adults, who recognize how dangerous such poisons would

be to my well-being, and thus have removed these products from the vending machines and lunch room.

When I am older, I will look back upon these misguided notions I hold as a mere teenager, shake my head and thank the dear lord for those caring adults who protected me from these dreadful toxins.

It is nearly unthinkable to envision an environment where I, in my misguided teenage ways, would have the freedom to choose for myself what beverages I would like to consume.

I will count myself lucky every time I pass by a vending machine proudly displaying my allotted proportion of

Page designed by George Yu

generously-priced Gatorade or the soda, which if it were not for the label calmly assuring me the soda is, in fact, diet, I would not even know was not regular. And then there is the assortment of other drinks found in the lunch room coolers, not a single one containing more than a handful of calories.

Yes, one day I will wake up, moan softly as I gingerly step out of bed, put on my house slippers and make my way downstairs to fetch the morning paper (I just love the crossword); it will occur to me how truly fortunate I was.

Here, where they emphasize the importance of “the real world” and

my readiness for it, they are kind enough to exempt me of the tough decision of right from wrong when it comes to beverage consumption.

I mean let’s face it; restricting my access to regular soda is not solving much. I can still be sufficiently unhealthy by continually consuming the diet soda.

What we will need is some sort of monitoring system to insure I cannot purchase more than one soda, let’s say, per month because, let’s face it, I may be responsible for a lot, but I’m just not ready to take on responsibility for my own beverage consumption; I would make poor decisions. I’ll leave that to those caring adults.

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December 17, 2009

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Public option sparks debate Cost offsets benefits

By Cory Schmitt Copy editor

Government has recently been getting bigger and bigger, spending has continued to increase and the budget deficit has gotten larger.

Now on the table is a plan for health care reform. While the current bill only makes it illegal for insurance companies to deny coverage based upon the age, health, gender or ethnicity of the individual, this is the first step towards total government control of our nation’s health care system.

“A government big enough to give you everything you’ve ever wanted is powerful enough to take away everything you have.” These are the wise words of our third president, Thomas Jefferson.

Nowhere in the Constitution does it state the government has the authority to control this much of the private sector. If the government can control our health insurance, what else can it control?

Our homes, our diets; what‘s next?

If reform is passed, it will be a green light for Washington to control more of the private sector.

Just as state and religion are separate, government and private services must be separated as well.

My biggest problem with the plans for health care reform is not

that Democrats are introducing it. It is not that I do not want Americans to be able to receive medical care. It is that health care insurance is none of the legislator’s business.

Health care has been run by private companies for decades. Yes, there is fraud in the current system, but leave it to the courts to fix the issues in the companies; do not institute a government option.

The government is here to serve and protect its citizens, not to butt into the private sector of this nation.

Also, any government option would cause an enormous burden on Americans paying for it, or more spending by the government.

Neither of which we can afford.

Even Democrat Senator Claire McCaskill threatened to vote no on any health care bill that would cost the government and public more than it would save.

By creating a public option, the government goes even further into the private sector of the country and limits what the people of this nation have control of. The best solution to the health care crisis in America is to encourage insurance companies to clean up their act, or have the court system go after those that are doing wrong.

Editors and staff

Kayla Mugler Ted Noelker Zac Hebert Alaina Babb Megan Berberich Bryan McCreary Katie Schlimpert Margaret Borgmeyer Brett Story Cory Schmitt George Yu Kayla Boone Allie Corrier Hannah Ibos Alli Keisker Brittany Kinealy Brendan Kinnison Kyle Kofron Damiana McGraw Jesse Patch Morgan Vetter Kelci Davis Jessica DiMariano Chelsea Carroll

Managing editor Multimedia editor Photo editor Wired editor BeHeard editor Sweat editor TheScene editor Communications editor Design editor Copy editor Copy editor Staff reporter Staff reporter Staff reporter Staff reporter Staff reporter Staff reporter Staff reporter Staff reporter Staff reporter Staff designer Staff photographer Staff photographer Staff photographer

Ryan McPartland Dallas Tobin Mr. Matthew Schott

Americans are in need

Cory Schmitt

By Britany Kinealy Staff reporter

Cory thinks heath care is not a government decision.

Health care: should government be involved?

Brittany Kinealy

Brittany thinks saving lives is worth the cost.

Staff photographer Staff photographer Adviser

The Central Focus is produced monthly as an integral part of the Newspaper Production class at Francis Howell Central High School. Students learn all aspects of printed media production and are responsible for contributing to each issue.

The Central Focus is a public forum for the students at Francis Howell Central High School. The staff ’s editorial policy is available in Room 139.

The staff welcomes comments and suggestions from the student body. All letters to the editor must be typed and no more than 300 words. Names must be included with the submission of the letter, but may be withheld at the request of the author. The staff reserves the right to withhold content at its discretion.

Forget the partisan divide of Democrats and Republicans. The call for universally-available health care is more than just some liberal, socialist proposition made by a taxcrazed Barack Obama.

The United States Constitution promises equality for all, as we have been taught in nearly every Social Studies class since third grade. If we deny coverage to people merely because of their poverty, then how does this demonstrate equality?

More than 45 million people (that is almost one sixth of the entire country) are uninsured.

Closed-minded conservatives are almost as detrimental a plague as a lack of medical care.

Rep. John Boehner, House Minority Leader, can be seen nightly on C-SPAN, Fox News, screaming and nearly hyperventilating while going on a rampage about the insane amount of taxing a health care plan would require.

Rep. Boehner consistently cites the tax portion of the plan.

Admittedly, the plan requires money, and, therefore, taxing. But, Boehner is a strong and outspoken supporter of American involvement in Iraq and Afghanistan, which I am sure he is aware that 36 percent

of the nation’s budget so far this year goes to the military to find weapons of mass destruction or whatever it is we are doing over there. Perhaps if this $653 billion was not wasted as it has been, America could better afford to support its sick citizens.

In fact, studies performed by Massachusetts and Connecticut have shown that single-payer, universal health care is likely to save the country upwards of $2 billion per year, including the cost of increasing medical benefits and covering the uninsured.

The United States is the only industrialized nation in the world without universal health care.

It is no wonder countries who provide their citizens with coverage (England, France and Canada, to name a few) are healthier.

The US is 23rd in infant mortality and 21st in overall life expectancy, according to npr.org. I suppose those against health care for all refuse to accept these vital statistics.

The issue comes down to saving the lives of people who cannot afford to do so. Though it will take money, millions in this country are in need of health care. And whether you agree with taxation or not, medical care should be provided for all of America, not just the wealthy.

Who won this month’s PointCounterPoint? Go to FHCtoday.com to vote!

The results of last month’s PCP about the H1N1 virus:

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Bryan McCreary’s argument won the FHCtoday.com web poll with 55.5% of votes.

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December 17, 2009

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kayla mugler Kayla Mugler is documenting her odyssey of senior year through reading about, applying to and, ultimately, selecting a college.

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Work hard in your Journalism class. You’ll learn how to write for publication, about 1st Amendment freedoms and the mission of student publications.

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If you’ve got questions, contact your school’s advis FHHS: Michele Dunaway: michele.dunaway@fhsdschools.org FHN: Aaron Ma FHC: Matthew Schott: matthew.schott@fhsdschools.o

Sign up for Journalism, which counts as English credit, ASAP! This is a prerequisite to be in the Newspaper or Yearbook classes. Also, check out PhotoJ for your sophomore year.

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Work hard in your Journalism class. You’ll learn how to write for publication, about 1st Amendment freedoms and the mission of student publications.

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brett story Brett Story is writing about music most of the time, but he will often write on whatever is making him upset at the moment.

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Sign up for Journalism, which counts as English credit, ASAP! This is a prerequisite to be in the Newspaper or Yearbook classes. Also, check out PhotoJ for your sophomore year.

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If you’ve got questions, contact your school’s adviser:

FHHS: Michele Dunaway: michele.dunaway@fhsdschools.org FHN: Aaron Manfull: aaron.manfull A Newspaper Association of America (NAA) study of more than 31,000 students FHC: Matthew Schott: matthew.schott@fhsdschools.org showed that students whoSignwere members of either the newspaper or yearbook Talk to your school’s publications up for Journalism, which counts Work hard in your Journalism as English credit,ACT ASAP!scores, This is a achieve class.

You’ll learn how to write for in adviser about joining staff! staff during high school earn higher better grades while prerequisite to be in the Newspaper publication, about 1st Amendment Applications are usually available high orschool college Yearbookand classes.as Also, check out freshmen. freedoms and the mission of student sometime in December.

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cory schmitt Cory Schmitt is writing about professional and college sports issues that are generating a lot of buzz.

Sign up for Journalism, which counts as English credit, ASAP! This is a prerequisite to be in the Newspaper or Yearbook classes. Also, check out PhotoJ for your sophomore year.

If you’ve got questions, contact your school’s adviser: FHHS: Michele Dunaway: michele.dunaway@fhsdschools.org FHN: Aaron Manfull: aaron.manfull@fhsdschools.org FHC: Matthew Schott: matthew.schott@fhsdschools.org

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InFocus

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December 17, 2009

Pouring

Allure of coffee domina

Feeding your fi

By Kayla Boone Staff reporter

There are several side effects for regular coffee drinkers who miss their morning java, including irritability, headaches and drowsiness, which are also associated with addiction to the caffeine in their morning “cup of joe.”

Senior Toni Haberkorn has experienced many of these side effects.

“Caffeine wakes me up in the morning. If I don’t have it, I get irritable. I’m tired longer, and it’s hard for me to focus,” said Haberkorn.

“It isn’t like I need to have coffee. It’s like I need caffeine. Coffee is just my preferred way to get it.”

With coffee becoming a significant part of many teenage wake-up routines, there are

several students who share the sentiment.

“I get extremely irritable if I don’t have caffeine,” said senior Kayla Scott. “I get really fatigued, and I get a headache.”

However, the addiction is not the only negative effect of caffeine on the body.

Caffeine can cause many cardiovascular symptoms, like irregular heartbeat, and it also increases the rate of urination, which can cause dehydration.

Caffeine withdrawal set aside, senior Caitlyn Clites believes that coffee is good for students, as long as students consume it within limits.

“I think it is good for you if you drink it in moderation,” said Clites.

A Harvard Health Publications study on the effects of coffee drinking reflects her

thoughts.

“The negative effects of emerge in excessive drinkin avoid heavy consumption,” s That being said, the stu many little known benefits from drinking coffee on a re These benefits include Parkinson’s disease, reduc 2 diabetes and reduction in those who are at a hig disease.

“My whole life my dad’s that I shouldn’t drink coffe stunt my growth,” said Habe told of the benefits of her Starbucks. “It’s good to know from it.”

Students, like adults, embrace daily coffee rout

By Brendan Kinnison Staff reporter

Coffee is no longer just for adults to get that extra boost in the morning. Now even high school students are joining the bandwagon.

Unlike the reasoning that adults use to back up their addiction to the substance, teens are now being drawn in due to the flavors and names, such as Starbucks’ Peppermint Mocha or its Gingerbread Latte.

Coffee is no longer just a drink, it is becoming an addictive art form. Like the modern day cigarette, everyone seems to be getting hooked on it.

“I make my own [coffee]. I have two cups in the morning

and then more at night. I just love the taste” said senior Rachel Pulley.

It seems the days of hanging out at the coffee bar and listening to some poetry have floated away. You do not walk into Starbucks and see a darkened room with a small stage in the corner; when the person on stage finishes, a wave of snapping overwhelms him. It just does not happen anymore.

Students have become loyal to businesses such as Starbucks, always spending over five dollars a day. on coffee However, you can make your own coffee for much cheaper.

“I would stop for [coffee] every morning, except I do not have time.

I will get it every chance I get,” said junior David Lanza.

Students drink coffee for a different reason than most adults. Adults drink

it in the morning to g many drink it in pla order to fill them u it just because they e “Yeah, I could m the day without coff taste,” said junior M Students begin because of the taste caffeine, they slowly to the substance.

“It just really tas nothing to do with headaches now if I said Pulley.

The times have is now marketed generation and tri everyone with its ma One may initiall taste, but sooner drinkers will becom caffeine.

Page designed by Brett

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December 17, 2009

InFocus

13

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Photo by Zac Hebert

Customers share coffee and conversation while working on their laptops at Picasso’s Coffee House. Folk singer Ben Bedford performed at the coffee shop on Dec. 12 and acoustic artist Elliott Ranney will perform on Saturday. It is a free singer-songwriter’s night the first Monday of every month.

Coffee culture captivates

By Kayla Mugler Managing editor

C

offee is an art. The art attracts both coffee lovers and people interested in social awareness.

“Besides the fact that [coffee] tastes good, I think I drink it because it’s a social thing,” said senior Liz Caro, a regular coffee drinker.

To create the atmosphere of a coffee shop, the workers must be creative and open. Jon Hedgecorth, 35, a Picasso’s Coffee House barista, has been working there since it opened. He said he enjoys getting to know his customers and seeing

Story and Kayla Mugler

“regulars” visit the coffee house.

“I love the relationships that you have with people,” said Hedgecorth. “They get to be friends with the owner.”

Hedgecorth competed in the Midwest Regional Barista Competition in St. Louis Jan. 30-Feb. 1, 2009. Competitors were judged on the quality, creativity and appearance of the drinks they served as well as on their customer service.

“I wouldn’t have gotten to do something like that if I didn’t work in this industry, so that was cool,” said Hedgecorth.

Hedgecorth finds pleasure in working at Picasso’s because it provides a relational

and creative outlet.

“I love coffee. It’s personal. It allows me to be creative,” said Hedgecorth, holding up a photo of a beautifully poured cup of coffee with a frothy design.

Hedgecorth believes one of the draws of Picasso’s is the atmosphere that the owner, Chris Schulte, generates.

“It’s a bit of the owner’s personality,” said Hedgecorth, “that just happens to agree with a lot of people. They feel that warmth.

They feel that vibe that he tries to create.”

Picasso’s Coffee House is decorated with classic and surreal art from Picasso, Van Gogh and others. It is furnished with Sticks

custom chairs and tables, which are each uniquely painted. Penned on one table is a quote from Sheik Abd-Al-Kadir.

“No one can understand the truth until she drinks of coffee’s frothy goodness,” said the quote.

Baristas, in addition to decor, is employed to cultivate the environment of a coffee shop.

Starbucks employees are trained to be open for communication; friendly workers are necessary to create the right experience for the customers, according to Amanda Please read more | COFFEE, PAGE 14

InFocus

FHCtoday.com

December 17, 2009

Coffee from page 13 Muraski, 23, a Starbucks employee of two years. Muraski began working at Starbucks in college, because she was reportedly spending $100 every month on coffee.

“They try to hire people who find it easier to spark a conversation,” said Muraski. “Here there’re people who come for conversation and to have that connection they might not have at McDonald’s.”

Music, in addition to amiable employees, is essential in creating atmosphere. The music played at Starbucks is sent to the coffee shops via satellite; they can choose from certain playlist options.

“Starbucks represents undiscovered music. It’s trendy,” said Caro. “They work hard to make it very cozy and intimate so you can listen to music and be comfortable.”

Teens and adults alike are attracted to coffee shops. However, they reflect the culture of younger people, according to Caro.

“I think they kind of have created their own subculture or maybe an extension of our culture,” said Caro.

Coffee shops attract a variety of people, offering solidarity for diverse kinds of people.

“I think it’s been a place where different aspects of subculture come together,” said Hedgecorth.

Coffee provides a conduit to communities both local and global by raising awareness and creating opportunities. Giving money to a good cause--while still enjoying a favorite beverage--draws senior Emily Vivio to coffee shops.

“Eating or drinking something that you love and it goes towards something good is always a plus,” said Vivio. “It makes you feel better about spending your money.”

There was a diaper drive last winter at the Starbucks on Mid Rivers Mall Dr. A pregnant woman lost her husband, and she did not have enough money to raise a child on her own, so people donated diapers for her to collect.

The Starbucks at 370 and Elm sponsored a similar fundraiser for a man who had lost his wife to cancer and needed money to support his children. He was given free coffee and baskets of supplies.

A collection box sits inside Picasso’s Coffee House on Main Street, and a summer mission trip to Guatemala was sponsored by Picasso’s.

Coffee shops have created opportunities for people to invest in their community, their world and those in need.

“Starbucks represents having something that you enjoy but also helping another person,” said Caro.

Dec. 1 was World AIDS Day. In the spirit of lending a helping hand, Starbucks opted to donate five cents of every ordered drink on this day to the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria.

Additionally, every purchase made using a Starbucks RED card donates another five cents to the cause until Dec. 1, 2010.

Land of a Thousand Hills Coffee is uniting people globally by investing in beans grown in Bukonya, Rwanda and roasted in Roswell, Georgia.

The 1994 genocide in Rwanda, caused by two quarreling ethnic groups, left Bukonya damaged and without help. Land of a Thousand Hills aided the people there through its Build Bukonya project. The organization utilizes coffee to change lives across the world.

“Coffee beans from Land of a Thousand Hills represent reconciliation. In the same way you come together with friends over a cup of coffee, farmers torn apart by genocide are coming together in their coffee-growing community, are learning to forgive and are restoring the relationships that once divided their country,” says DrinkCoffeeDoGood.com. “Great healing is taking place.”

Coffee shops have cultivated a culture conducive to creating a tighter-knit community.

“I love the connection it brings between people,” said Hedgecorth.

“It connects people all over the world.”

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Photo by Zac Hebert

A sign reading “Picasso’s: The Art of Coffee” hangs above a table and chairs at the corner of Jefferson and Main. Picasso’s has offered student discounts Mondays and Tuesdays at 4 p.m and 7:30 p.m. on Fridays.

Facebook us! Do you take awesome photos and want to share them with everyone at school? Do you have ideas for stories that we should cover? Let us know about them at our Facebook page.

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Skating as a lifestyle See page 16 | The art of shooting freethrows See page 17

Sweat Sensational Pommers bring home two first place trophies at Lindbergh Invitational

15

By Katie Schlimpert TheScene editor

T

he Sensations had a very successful competition at the Yvonne Cole Lindbergh Invitational, placing first in both its jazz and hiphop routines, earning highest average score in the overall competition, and winning most memorable jazz routine. This is an award that many girls have only dreamt about. The dance competition was at Lindbergh High School in St. Louis, Saturday, Dec. 5.

“It was really awesome to do this well at a competition my senior year. I’m so proud of what we accomplished,” said senior Brittni Collins. “The team did the best it has ever done in Sensation history.”

Please read more | SENSATIONAL, PAGE 17

Photo by Zac Hebert

The Spartan sensations, lead by senior captains Brittni Collins, and Lindsey Schweigert danced their way to two first place finishes in the Yvonne Cole Lindbergh Invitational. Many members of the team have been dancing together for numerous years.

Preparation over break keeps teams in shape Brendan Kennison Staff reporter

Over Thanksgiving break, many students did not get rest; they were not able to sleep in and relax. They were awake and at practice, showing their devotion to their team.

Teams such as diving, swimming and basketball all had practices over break. These practices were used to keep the team in shape and develop team chemistry. Coaches took advantage of the time away in order to get some extra practice. “[The diving team] practiced every

day at either 10 a.m. or 2 p.m.,” said junior Cheyenne Glaenzer.

The extra time helped the teams get the upper hand and utilize all the time they can to get in shape. “[The practices] were probably worth it. They really helped us a lot,” said Glaenzer.

The teams were put through a normal workout; the only difference was that it was over break. Everything else remained the same; they were not given a break just because it was around a holiday.

Thanksgiving was the only day that

“

[The practices

were probably worth it. They really helped us alot.”

— junior Cheyenne Glaenzer

teams did not practice.

Although the practices were numerous, they may pay off in the

long run. The extra practice helps the teams prepare it for the coming season in which they all hope to perform well.

For basketball, the practices were Wednesday from 8-10 a.m. and Sunday from 6-8 p.m. Every player on the team showed up ready to practice.

Players had the option to stay home or go on vacation, but instead they devoted their time to practicing and making the team as good as they could possibly get in the time provided to them. They showed how

Page designed by Bryan McCreary

much they care about the team in general. “[The practices] were useful because we need all the practice we can get,” said junior Chris Guyot.

With all the extra practice and time spent together, the teams look to have a great season together.

All the team members of the basketball team not only practiced, but they also got together a few times outiside of practice to build off the court chemistry with hopes that it would make them better on the court.

FHCtoday.com

C F Photos by Zac Hebert

Junior Lauren Kastner, an aspiring figure skater, practices on the ice rink at the Recplex. She participates in performances to show off what she has practiced.

By Cory Schmitt Copy editor

It is 4:30 in the morning; the sun is still below the horizon. Many are still asleep in their warm beds, but at the Rec-Plex the sound of skates hitting the crisp ice alerts that not all are asleep. For an hour, one hears the continual movement of skates across the ice. These skates belong to junior Lauren Kastner.

Kastner skates for an hour before school every day and at least an hour after school as well. Practicing is vital to reaching her goal of getting to the top level of figure skaters and ice dancers around the country and the world.

Kastner has always spent a great deal of time at the rink; having watched her father play hockey from an early age, she has always had a love for the ice.

“I went to a lot of my father’s games. One day, the rink had an open skate, and he took me out on the ice,” said Kastner. “I wanted to play hockey, but my father wouldn’t

let me, so I started skating and haven’t stopped since then.”

Thus began years of hard work, practice and training on the ice.

Skating immediately became her favorite thing to do. However, Kastner does not want to skate alone for much longer. She has been looking for a skating companion for ice dancing for two years now. “[It’s] been a long process,” said Kastner. “The coach has to arrange a tryout, and then even afterwards they don’t always call back telling you how the tryout went. It’s been a lot of heartbreak.”

Things are looking up in Kastner’s search for a partner, though. At a competition last year in Lake Placid, New York, a young man from Cleveland saw her skate and contacted her following the competition.

Following contact between his and Kastner’s coach, Tina Randazzo, a date for a tryout was set up.

“Our tryout was last weekend (Nov. 27-29); we skated for three to

four hours each day and met each other’s families,” said Kastner.

With approval from her father, Kastner would move to Cleveland to train with her new partner as early as the middle of January. However, Kastner ’s

f a t h e r ’s verdict is still in question.

“He wants me to pursue my dream, but he is afraid to let his only daughter go,” said Kastner.

Kastner would live in Cleveland for at least a year, but if they are successful in competition, she would continue to live in Cleveland one skating season (around one year) at a time.

Getting slightly emotional,

Page designed by Morgan Vetter

Kastner reflects on what she would be leaving. “[I’m] really going to miss my family, friends and dog,” said Kastner. “[It] will be hard.”

However, Kastner believes that she cannot pass up an opportunity as great as this. Having skated since age six, finding a partner is the next logical step for her career, especially when he and Kastner match up so well.

“If we start training in January, we can qualify for nationals in November by finishing in the top four at sectionals,” said Kastner.

Their final goal is competing in the 2011 Skating Nationals.

“I cannot tell you for sure that we

will make it, but it’s really what we’re hoping for,” said Kastner.

Moving out of state alone to pursue a dream is never easy, but with support from her parents, friends and coaches, along with determination to pursue her dream, Kastner is confident in her future, no matter where it takes her.

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FHCtoday.com

December 17, 2009

Sweat

17

Ten things you need to know

By Cory Schmitt Copy editor

As a player steps onto the court for the first time in a Spartan uniform, the chants of the crowd echo in her ears. The band is playing in the background, and the voice of the coach is saying what needs to be done to win.

The varsity level is the goal of many high school athletes, but few get the chance to play in a varsity game until they are juniors, for freshman Kristen Warncke, that dream has been fulfilled now.

“I was really nervous in the first few minutes,” said Warncke. “But I then realized that it was just like any other game.”

Warncke has become one of a handful of athletes in the history of the school to play, and start, on the varsity level as only a freshman.

Long years of playing and practicing have finally payed off: having played since she could walk, Warncke has always considered basketball a priority.

“I really just love the sport. I like to run and shoot,” said Warncke.

Warncke has been playing basketball competitively for ten years.

“My first team was when I was in kindergarten,” said Warncke. “I now play on select teams year-round.”

Even playing basketball year-round, Warncke still has time to play volleyball throughout the year and plans to do track in the spring to keep active.

Warncke played with most of the upperclassmen players, including junior Allison Berck, over summer. Her teammates were confident she would make the team.

“I wasn’t surprised, she has a great attitude and works hard,” said Berck.

Head coach Brian Ricker confirmed their thoughts when he announced that Warncke had made varsity. “[Kristen] showed a lot of composure,” said Ricker. “[She] was able to pick up what varsity was doing quickly and has a good knowledge of the game.”

For Warncke, it was a huge shock. “[It’s] really exciting,” said Warncke. “I am thankful for this opportunity and anxious to see how the season will go.”

After getting over the nerves of playing varsity, Warncke can focus on improving her game.

“She works on her mistakes, and she is focused on helping out the team,” said Berck.

However, Warncke does not feel completely out of place. With two sophomores in starting positions, this is the youngest team coach Ricker has ever had.

Sensational from page 15

The Sensations began work on their routines back in October when they brought in Marissa Gassel, a choreographer from Los Angeles, to choreograph their jazz dance to “Turn Out The Lights” by Nelly Furtado.

Their hip-hop routine, choreographed to a mix of Jennifer

Lopez songs, “Doing It Well” and “Get It Right,” was put together by members of the team.

Throughout November, the 12 girls, led by senior captains Brittni Collins and Lindsey Schweigert, practiced Monday through Thursday and on Sundays from 58 p.m.

The team worked through half days and also took time out to practice in a professional dance studio. As the competition drew

A

Shooting a free-throw According to Shayne Heskin

new look

1

Getting the ball from the referee is the fist step. Get up to the line, picking the same spot every time.

Take a deep breath, relax, concentrate on the task at hand and shoot the ball.

3

Balance your feet at the line. It is very hard to shoot a good free-throw when you are not balanced.

Keep your arms at a 90 degree angle when shooting the ball, it keeps the correct trajectory on the ball.

5

2

4

Bending your knees is extremely important in a free-throw. Bend them just to where you are comfortable, do not over do it.

After releasing the ball, be sure to follow through. Your follow through is very important in basketball.

7

6

Keep your hand up, so that everyone taking pictures gets good photos.

This a very important part of the shot.

Do not watch the flight of the ball through the air, keep your eyes fixed on the rim. This helps to make sure that you are concentrated through the shot.

9

8

Stay balanced at the line, and be sure not to fall over the free-throw line: this will result in the shot not counting.

Finally, get a routine that works for you, do not change it every time you step to the line consistency is a vital part to success.

closer, the team expanded its practice time and added additional hours to the Sunday practice before the rehearsal date.

The girls shared an emotional award ceremony that was significantly more rewarding than the ceremony at last year’s Lindbergh Invitational.

“It was one thing after another,” said senior Mallory Lieber. “It was like we were living a dream. Last year, we were crying after scoring poorly

on a pom routine. This year, we were ecstatic. We thought we were going to have to wake up on Saturday and do it all over again.”

The junior varsity Sensations also had a successful run at the Yvonne Cole Invitational. The JV team placed second in the competition with its jazz routine to “Good Luck”

by Basement Jaxx a very impressivfe showing from both the varsity and junior varsity teams in the Invitational.

Page designed by Ted Noelker and Bryan McCreary

10

To see a photo gallery of the Sensations, visit the photos section of fhctoday.com

18

Sweat: Editorials

December 17, 2009

FHCtoday.com

Little value Every November, gyms across campuses nationwide fill up as the college basketball season finally kicks up again.

With conference games (the games that “matter”) not starting up until early January, many schools schedule

By Cory Schmitt games against weaker non-conference Copy editor opponents earlier in the season in order to build the team up for conference play.

However, this is not the best thing to do. In the eyes of the NCAA selection committee, how a team performs in the non-conference games affects if and where they place in the tournament in March.

These filler games do more harm than good. In March, when the selection committee looks at the resume for the Missouri Tigers, which will presumably be a bubble team, they will see non-conference wins over teams like Fairleigh Dickinson and Tennessee-Martin.

These lopsided victories do not show the Tigers’ worth at all. The committee would much rather select a team that has won and lost games against tougher opponents than choose a team that has numerous victories over weaker teams.

C F

No commitment

By Bryan McCreary

Sweat editor

No coach is ever happy anymore. They are never content with their team, and their position as a coach. Even after a great season.

Coaches now look for bigger and better teams. There is no loyalty in college football anymore.

Head football coach at the University of Cincinnati, Brian Kelly has a 12-0 Bearcats team that is playing Florida for the Allstate

Sugar Bowl.

We are talking about former number one, undefeated, Tim Tebow led Florida, and all Brian Kelly can worry about is his “dream coaching job” at Notre Dame.

Do not get me wrong, I have grown up a Notre Dame fan, and have been extremely loyal to the team through the rough few seasons they have had the past couple years, and I want nothing more than to see a great coach going to South Bend and turn them back around.

However, it is not fair to the team he is already coaching that has played so hard for him the entire season to have to hear him talk about his probable departure at the end of the season. It is a huge distraction for the team and one that could cost them a Sugar Bowl Championship.

Collegiate athletes play For the latest sports news, visit the sweat section of with more intensity, pride rls basketball Intensity is something sports spectators long for, something that makes sports fun to watch.

By Bryan More often than McCreary Sweat editor not, however, it is hard to find that passion in professional sporting events, and that is why I turn to collegiate sports to get my fix.

When it comes to professional sports, there just does not seem to be enough enthusiasm from the athletes.

Maybe it is the knowledge that they are already at the highest level of competition, or maybe it is the huge paychecks that the players are bringing in.

Whatever it is that leaves me with the feeling that I just watched the news after watching a pro sports game makes me wonder where the intensity has gone. I then realize that collegiate sports have all the intensity and excitement that most any fan can ask for.

College sports bring to the table all sorts of excitement that pro sports can not. The rivalries, the comeback stories and the prolific upsets all give me reasons to watch college sports.

For example, when I watched the 2006 Rose Bowl, where the Trojans of the University of Southern California played the Longhorns of Texas University, I went from screaming and jumping to falling and crying all in a matter of seconds after Vince Young ran the ball into the end zone to score the game-winning touchdown, ending one of my favorite teams’ hopes of winning a national championship.

Or how about the actual experience of the games themselves? When I attend a Missouri football game I know that not only will it be fun to watch the game, but it will be fun to be part of the roaring crowd: a crowd that will not settle for anything less than a win.

I know that every time Mizzou gets a first down, the announcer will scream “First down, M-I-Z...” and the whole crowd will respond in

unison “Z-O-U...”

Attending a pro game in any sport has come down to being a rich person who is trying to impress as many friends as he can by bringing them to a game and sitting in the luxury boxes, whereas a college game is about traditions; it is about the love of the game and the love of the home team.

For instance, the Duke Blue Devils “Cameron Crazies” go to cheer on their basketball team with the most insane intensity I have ever seen.

Nearly every one of them is painted blue, and they do everything they possibly can to assure that the team visiting Cameron Indoor Stadium has the worst experience of their lives: win or lose.

All in all, sports in general give me something to watch. Anything that keeps my television away from “Glee” and “Gossip Girl” is all right with me, but as long as I have the choice, I will be watching the college athletes battle head to head, rather than the pros who are okay with a loss as long as they are being paid.

Page designed by Cory Schmitt

wrestling Weekly updates of all in-season sports.

boys basketb Keep track of the latest news and scores.

The most current information available.

irls swimming Stay updated with all FHC athletics.

hockey

Dracula versus Edward See page 20

| Bands discovered See page 21

Scene The

Jonesin’ Specialty holiday flavors fly off stores shelves

Hot off the press Challenge leads to junior making printing press

19

Margaret Borgmeyer Communications editor

S

ince 2003, Jones Soda Co. has come out with specialty flavors around the holidays. Seasonal flavors such as Turkey & Gravy, Green Bean Casserole and Mashed Potatoes with Butter create a drinkable holiday meal. Although these flavors seem odd to be drinking, many of the flavors were sold out after two hours of being put in stores. Wanting to win the taste buds of vegetarians out there, Jones has begun making “tofurky” drinks.

Please read more | JONES SODA, PAGE 23

By Jesse Patch Staff reporter

In the 1430s, Johannes Gutenberg came up with the idea for the printing press. The printing press was revolutionary in that it significantly increased the spread of ideas in that era. People used to copy every single book and note down by hand, but after the printing press, that was a thing of the past.

Junior Max Mulholland decided to follow in the footsteps of Gutenberg and make a printing press of his own.

Mulholland was at the Renaissance Fair one day where he encountered someone who challenged him to make his own printing press.

“He had no idea how to make it

and asked me to, so he could see how it was done,” said Mulholland.

Mulholland said that he was bored with his mundane life and decided to take on the challenge. The only materials he required were some wood and metal parts, all of which he already had.

Without any prior research, Mulholland built his printing press in just four hours.

“The first step is to line your letters up backwards, or else your product will come out backwards,” said Mulholland. Then, you “enter the letters, or tin type, beneath the screw.”

The third step is to “add ink and place the piece of paper that you wish to print on over the letters.”

Page designed by Katie Schlimpert and Margaret Borgmeyer

Finally, you screw down the screw until you are adding “about 500 pounds of pressure.”

Then you have the finished product.

“I have a greater respect for people who printed newspapers in the past,” said Mulholland. “I know why they were only three pages long.”

Patrick Coffey, a student in Spectra, has seen the printing press.

“The printing press is pretty impressive,” said Coffey.

Mulholland said that he is sending his work in January to a professor at UMSL, who was having trouble making the screw portion of his own printing press. Mulholland’s version is just a scale model, but it could still help the college professor.

20

December 17, 2009

tune in volume my style delish

Night and day Vampire myth changes, evolves to modern culture

Over the years, vampires have transformed from the forests of Forks, Washington, temporary residence traditional blood thirsty vampires in the folk lore of the of Edward Cullen and his vampire family. These Middle Ages, to brooding heartthrob “vegetarians.� differing incarnations of vampires show completely What used to be mysterious Transylvania, the home different qualities that transcend the evolution of the of the monstrous Count Dracula, is now the green vampire over the ages.

Count Dracula

Edward Cullen

Must be beheaded to die

Sun makes him sparkle

Allergic to light and holy water Unholy

Sleeps in a coffin

Reads minds Does not sleep Does not drink human blood

Cannot be seen in reflections or pictures

Lives in a large castle

Super strength Hypothermic, rock-like body

Seduces women

Still in high school

Has fangs

Drives a silver Volvo

Drinks human blood

No fangs Page designed by Brett Story

21

December 17, 2009

tune in volume my style delish

Late fame:

new popularity finds some not-so-new bands

By Megan Berberich BeHeard editor

Everyone has a favorite band.

You listen to every album and go to every show. Dedication among other fans has kept many bands alive and well. However, within the past few years, bands that have a solid “underground” following now seem to be seeping into the mainstream radio waves looking for a fresh revival. This “new band” syndrome has been happening to many groups such as Cobra Starship, Kings of Leon and, most recently, Owl City.

Adam Young is the frontman in Owl City, which he created while in his parents’ basement. During 2007, his first EP, “Of June,” came out, followed by his first album in 2008, “Maybe I’m Dreaming.”

According to the New York Times, before Young came out with his latest CD, “Ocean Eyes,” this July, he signed with Universal Republic, which is a major record company.

Now, his song “Fireflies” has hit number one on the Billboard charts twice and has been downloaded on iTunes 1.4 million times. It is currently number three on the iTunes charts. “Fireflies” is constantly played on hit radio stations, and Owl City’s 2010 winter tour has already sold out in 12 of the 18 cities, according to owlcitymusic.com.

This new exposure has gained Owl City a following and a new “revival” for Young’s career.

Senior Kristina Herrera has been listening to Owl City for quite a while.

“I’ve been listening to them ever Kings of Leon have been around since I heard ‘Hello Seattle’ on my for numerous years and have only Pandora radio station,” said Herrera. become famous within the past year “I listened to Adam Young’s EP because of radio play. Kings of Leon ‘Of June’ and his CD ‘Maybe I’m is a prime example of this trend.

Dreaming’ on YouTube since last Kings of Leon released its first year, but I couldn’t find them in store CD in 2003, but only most recently anywhere. I showed Owl City to a has gained stateside success. In 2008, friend, and they bought the album Kings of Leon had so much national ‘Ocean Eyes,’ which ‘Fireflies’ is on.” success that it won a Grammy for its Herrera has mixed feelings about single “Sex on Fire,” in the Best Rock Young’s new-found success.

Group Performance category.

“I’m happy for S e n i o r Owl City and M a t t h e w Adam Young Mueller has because his been listening to Once a band music deserves Kings of Leon hits the radio, the the acclaim, for about six but on the musician conforms to months. other hand, I’m “I discovered selfishly upset them when my what the population because I know friend gave me wants. most people a CD with ‘Sex will just listen to —Katy Bruegenhemke on Fire’ on it,” Fireflies and not said Mueller. any of his other “After hearing songs, which are that song, I got all fantastic,” said Herrera. “Every another CD, ‘Aha Shake Heartbreak,’ band is more than just their one-hit- which is older.” wonder, and Owl City is certainly no Mueller does not think it is bad to exception to that.” have new fans because he himself is Once a song hits the radio, the fan a fairly new listener. base immediately changes.

“It is okay to like the song if you “Before it was just kids who like hear it on the radio, that is why it is electronic-pop and are pretty good on the radio, but do not say that you at digging around on the internet, love the band just because you hear but now it’s being exposed to every one or two songs from them,” said person who listens to mainstream Mueller. pop music stations, which creates Cobra Starship is another prime a whole, huge new group of example of a band that has been people listening,” said Herrera. around the block but has just Bands such as Cobra Starship and recently gotten exposure by having

“

”

Online

music reviews

a hit single on the radio. The band’s first CD came out in 2006, which was entitled “While the City Sleeps, We Rule the Streets.”

In 2007, they followed up with “Viva La Cobra.”

Senior Katy Bruegenhemke has been a fan of Cobra Starship since 2006, when their first CD came out.

“I started listening to them in ninth grade,” said Bruegenhemke.

“I went to a show and got a free CD after with a bunch of bands on there, including Cobra Starship, and I checked them out. In May of 2007, I saw them play for the first time, opening up for Fall Out Boy.” Just within the last few months, the single “Good Girls Go Bad” off of the band’s latest album, “Hot Mess,” has peaked at number seven on the U.S. charts, on Billboard.com.

This is the first time in the band’s career that any of its songs have been on the U.S. charts. Some of its success can be attributed to “Gossip Girl” Leighton Meester, who is featured on the song, according to Bruegenhemke.

“A lot of young ‘teeny boppers’ are listening to them now, especially because Leighton Meester is on this song,” said Bruegenhemke.

Radio play can also lead bands into molding their music into something that is more generic.

“A lot of kids that start listening to ‘Good Girls Go Bad’ do not even know the true band. Once a band hits the radio, the musician conforms to what the population wants,” said Bruegenhemke.

Ten songs for

Late

fame

By Hannah Ibos

1. “Fireflies” - Owl City

2. “Sex on Fire” - Kings of Leon 3. “Good Girls Go Bad” - Cobra Starship 4. “Fuzzy Blue Lights“ -Owl City 5. “Hello, Good Friend“ - The Rocket Summer 6. “Apologize“ - One Republic 7. “Time to Pretend“ - MGMT 8. “Somewhere Only We Know“ - Keane 9. “Use Somebody“ - Kings of Leon 10. “Electric Feel“ - MGMT

Upcoming local shows 12/15-27

White Christmas @ The Fox “Poetry of the Deed”

by Frank Turner

“Ocean Eyes”

by Owl City

“Smile Kid”

by We the Kings

See full reviews on our website, FHCtoday.com Page designed by Hannah Ibos

1/7

Lady Gaga @ The Fox

1/19

Nick Jonas and the Administration @ The Pageant

1/23

Owl City @ The Pageant

22

December 17, 2009

tune in volume my style delish

Bold beauty Dark colors dominate winter runway

By Brittany Kinealy Staff reporter

With colder weather comes not only heavy coats and higher heating bills, but fresh new trends in hair and makeup. Summer is gone.

Though sparkly eye shadows and glittery glosses are fun, this winter season calls for different looks.

First off is the often-tricky decision of eyebrows. If you have a tendency to opt for a thinner brow, beyondjane. com suggests ditching the tweezers for the next few months.

This season’s look includes a strong eye with a full brow. It might be tempting to tweeze, but allow a few weeks for the brows to regain that naturally full look.

Makeup artists this year have sent models walking down the runways with bold eyes, doused in purples, browns, golds, and coppers. As in recent seasons, purple is definitely a popular shade.

Makeup artists like Kristie Leong do not recommend periwinkles loaded with shimmer, but deeply rich plums instead. Classic cold weather colors like browns, golds and coppers are still in style.

To spice your look up this season, try a deep purple on the lid and blend some copper or gold into the crease. These colors will make any eye color bright and noticeable.

Long lashes are in (as always). To make them look even fuller, artists are recommending basic black eyeliner on the upper lash line.

Artist Alexander McQueen of vogue.com is all in favor of a strong lip this season. Rich crimsons, and even pure oranges, are in this season. But it is key to remember that dramatic eyes and playedup lips are a no-no. It may be

great to have it all, but pick either emphasized eyes or lips so as not to overkill the cosmetics.

“I’m all for red lipstick,” said junior Jennifer Faron. “I definitely say go for it. In the cold [weather] you can do anything.”

If you do choose to play up the lips with red, orange or berry-toned colors, keep the eyes natural with some black mascara and light gold shimmer and subtle brown shadow in the crease. Brown eyeliner can be applied for extra emphasis.

Foundation this winter should be light and sheer. Ever-popular mineral makeup is still in style.

Contouring to make cheek bones appear higher and more sculpted is a huge trend now.

Sweeping a matte powder two to three shades darker than your skin tone in the hollows of the cheeks will subtly add more emphasis to the cheek bones. This is a quick and easy way to enhance bone structure.

Harper’s Bazaar advocates using peach blush in order to balance out more dramatic eyes or lips. Peach is more natural than traditional pinks and reds, keeping in line with the sheer and fresh complexion in style this season.

Hair trends this season do not differ all that much from last winter; dark shades of chocolate brown and mahogany locks with lots of body are what is in style.

“I notice lots of girls are dying their hair dark,” said junior Elizabeth Glastetter. “I think hair should be darker in the winter.”

Hairboutique.com says that hair with loose waves and volume is a good way to maintain a fresh and

flowing look.

The site also suggests putting the straightener a w a y for the next few months, offering such alternatives as keratin straightening (professionally done to seal in moisture) or simply wearing your hair as it naturally is.

To keep your look cool, keep in mind these hot t re n d s for cold weather.

For more tips and tricks, check out these websites To see a photo gallery of how-to guides, visit the photos section of fhctoday.com

beautyandhairstyles.com: Visit this website for up to date information on top hairstyles for women that range from punk styles to bob cuts. beyondjane.com: This site has easy glamour fixes and relevant fashion articles that supply information to keep you up to date with the latest in fashion. maccosmetics.com: Shop MAC and read up on MAC make-up styles. You can look at specific chic style palettes to customize your make-up routine. sephora.com: Find sales and top beauty products to fit your needs at Sephora. elle.com/beauty: Browse chic street fashions, profile top designer files and top runway looks in Elle’s Hair & Beauty section. bellasugar.com: Read all about hair, make-up and fashion articles at this all beauty website. You can also check out the “CelebStyle look of the day.”

Page designed by Brittany Kinealy and Katie Schlimpert

23

December 17, 2009

tune in volume my style delish

Holiday soda fulfills cravings

By Margaret Borgmeyer Communications editor

Tofurky & Gravy

Wild Herb Stuffing

Flavored like the sweet taste of turkey and gravy, this drink came out just in time for Thanksgiving.

Directed towards vegetarians, Jones made this soda completely vegan. A portion of the proceeds were donated to the Progressive Animal Welfare Society.

Wild Herb Stuffing added a new sensation for tastebuds in 2005.

Released with the old time favorites, Turkey & Gravy and Cranberry, the flavor spiced up the pack.

Mashed Potatoes With Butter

Egg Plum

Offered with the first “complete” Thanksgiving dinner pack of Jones Sodas, Mashed Potatoes with Butter (left) truly satisfies most holiday cravings. Latke (right), or potato pancakes, came as one of the four flavors in the Chanuka Pack. Latke’s are fried pancakes, often flavored with grated onion.

The Christmas Pack of 2007 released Egg Plum and Sugar Cane together. All profits from the holiday packs go towards charities, in this case the proceeds benefited the Toys for Tots foundation.

Latke

Sugar Cane

The Dinner Roll drink is now a “classic” Jones Soda flavor. When released in 2006, this drink was packed with three other flavors to complete holiday meals. The Holiday Pack included Turkey & Gravy, Dinner Roll, Sweet Potato, and Pea.

Mele Kalikimaka meaning “Merry Christmas” in Hawaiian, is a pinapple and coconut combination of flavor. This tropical drink was released along with Candy Cane and Pear Tree.

Dinner Roll

Mele Kalikimaka

Call Toll Free (636) 978-1953 or at (636) 281-1953

Custom Jewelry and diamond setting

Visit FHCtoday.com/index.php/ifocus and the iFocus Studio channel on YouTube Page designed by Margaret Borgmeyer

“We Make Quality Affordable”

309 South Main O’Fallon, Mo. 63366

C F

FHCtoday.com

December 17, 2009

Aperture

24

Harold

Shines through

After washing the windows, Harold climbs the stairs to clean the bathrooms. He was happy to say that after five years of working at Central, he’s only pulled out the plunger three times.

Harold begins his day at 9 a.m. by going around the school and washing all the windows. He has found it relaxing to “wash the windows and let them shine again.”

Iconic custodian Harold Meyer is known for his warmth and good nature. Each day, Harold goes above and beyond, cleaning the school, while also maintaining his friendly demeanor with students and staff throughout his nine-hour work day.

Throughout the day, Harold is constantly cracking jokes to everyone he passes. Mr. Mark McAfee laughed as Harold tried to get him to pose.

His favorite part of his job is being able to meet so many kids and staff. Harold has spent the last ten years working as a janitor.

Broom in hand, Harold exits the restroom. He spent an hour cleaning the bathrooms.

Harold revels in how fast students can go through paper towels. Harold constanly had to check the bathrooms for refills.

Harold flashes a cheesy smile for the camera as he enters the bathroom.

His humor and good will is what makes him so iconic and memorable.

Photos and page design by Kelci Davis