Central Focus December 2015 Issue

CENTRAL

focus Volume 19, Issue 3 Dec. 11, 2015 Francis Howell Central High School

e f i L l Rea for

s n a t r a p s Deal with pregnancy

Students focus on topics necessary to succeed in the real world

Apply for a job Fix appliances And more!

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DEC. 11, 2015

staff

staff members

letters to the editor

digital media

Print Executive Editor

Have a letter for the editor or a question for us?

Online

Cadence Bippen

Multimedia Executive Editor Jared McClellan

Design Editor Morgan Brader

Discover Editor

If something we wrote demands your voice, please e-mail us at fhcpub@gmail.com or drop your handwritten letter off with Mr. Schott in Room 139. The Central Focus staff will print the entirety of your letter, providing it meets the standards of publication laid out in the FHC Publications editorial policy, which is available in Room 139 or at www.fhctoday.com for your perusal.

Emily Mann

FHCtoday.com is the online home of FHC Publications and serves as a hub for all of our breaking news, photography and video work. For all you need to know about the FHC community, head to FHCtoday.com @fhcpublications francis howell central publications @fhcpublications

Feature Editor Olivia Biondo

fhcpublications

Move Editor Bri Shatto

Voice Editor Becca Abrams

Entertain Editor Elisa Swanson

Photo Editor Taylor Tinnes

Staff Reporters

Elizabeth Gerger, Dulci Hedges, Jack Hiegel, Skylar Laird, Elaine Mallon, Will Sills, Leslie Sutton, Kaleigh Zehnle

Photographers

Belle Herrera, Josephene Julien, Morgan West, Deairra Williams, Dakota Wisdom, Stacey Zika

Adviser/for advertising inquiries Matthew Schott matthew.schott@fhsdschools.com

letter from the editor

T

here are many things in life we need to know, but sometimes there’s not enough time to learn them. With this being my first issue as Executive Editor, I often wished for some kind of rule-book or guide to help me help my staff. Much of what we learn in life is through trial and error (I know from experience), and that is an important aspect of growing up. However, we here at the Central Focus wanted to ease some of the pain as you explore

what it’s like to be young adults, so we compiled a few skills high schoolers should know. Whether you face these problems in the future or not, hopefully our Real Life for Spartans guide is of help, because that’s what we do. We’re here to help.

Cadence Bippen print executive editor

Contents

3 DEC. 11, 2015

DECEMBER 26

Stressed by the test

Skylar Laird bemoans the bevy of testing — ACT, EOC’s finals — students are forced to endure .

8 Protest fallout

Students, counselors take Mizzou demonstrations into consideration when pondering where to apply for college next year

22 Spirit & sports

Taking a look at why some students have tons of school spirit, while others prefer to stay away.

page 10

Three days of glory

Crews, actors shine in Spotlight Players performance of “The Curious Savage.”

While others look on, junior Gea Henry squeezes her teddy bear during a scene from the three-day run of “The Curious Savage.” “We all thought it was just going to be another show, but it turned out to be everybody’s favorite,” junior tech director Emma Entner said.

Josie Julien

4 DEC.11, 2015

discover

Senior Jenna Adkins and junior Will Pierce share the life changes that come with a family member’s deployment

Deployed for the holiday

By Elaine Mallon staff reporter

F

reedom: a simple word, yet its true importance is understood by few. According to our nation’s founders, it is a God-given right granted to all human beings, yet it is greater than doing as one pleases. The U.S. military protects the liberties and rights of all citizens from foreign invaders. Whether marine or soldier, all military men and women recognize that freedom for loved ones and strangers is worth the risk of their death.

DISCOVER

5 DEC. 11, 2015

“This is going to be the first Christmas he will miss. He has been able to come home for every one except this one. He’s missed birthdays and Easters before.

He might even miss my graduation.”

“I don’t know what it would’ve been like when my dad was younger, when my grandfather was deployed. It was still hard not having him here, but I can’t fully understand how hard it can be since I was able to still talk to him every day.”

Senior Jenna Adkins, on her brother Caleb, a 2013 graduate of FHC

Junior Will Pierce, whose father was in the Marines for most of his life

By answering the call of duty, the enlisted aren’t only risking their life, but they are also sacrificing precious moments with family members. Instead of decorating the Christmas tree with ornaments, or feasting on turkey with family, many soldiers may be spending the holiday season on a military base or overseas. When a parent or sibling is deployed overseas, Christmas or even a typical day without their loving presence can be difficult.

Separated by the Pacific Ocean and a 15-hour time difference, senior Jenna Adkins will miss her Army-enlisted brother, Caleb Adkins, this Christmas for the first time ever. After graduating in 2013, Caleb traded in his notebooks and pencils for combat boots and service stripes.

“We had an idea he was going to go in, he has always been interested with the military and he always dressed in camo when he was younger,” Adkins said.

Though proud of her brother’s decision, Jenna felt uneasy.

“We were scared. We didn’t know where he was going to go. If he was deployed in Iraq, that would be really scary,” Jenna said.

Though not stationed in Iraq, Caleb’s

deployment to South Korea, a neutral nation, is still troublesome for the Adkins family.

“This is going to be his first Christmas he will miss. He has been able to come home for everyone except this one. He’s missed birthdays, and Easters before. He might even miss my graduation,” Jenna said.

Last spring, the girls soccer team won second place at the state championship game. Jenna wished Caleb was home to celebrate.

“He was able to come for the district games, but not state. It just would have been really cool for him to of been there in the moment with me,” Jenna said.

Not everyday, but at different times Jenna will feel a strong yearning for her brother to be home.

It can be a text message from him or updates on Facebook that makes his absence from her life more apparent.

Junior Will Pierce can relate to the longing of a family member’s return home. Pierce’s father joined the Marines as a senior in high school, and he retired from his military career last year. Since January, Pierce has started sharing his everyday life with his father.

“I was happy when he came home, but I didn’t

really depend on him, because he taught me to be self-reliant since he was going to be gone for so long,” Pierce said.

His father’s deployment to Afghanistan on two separate occasions has shaped the Pierce family’s emotional independence. Though Pierce father’s deployment was hard for his family; he couldn’t imagine how hard it would be without modern day technology.

“I don’t know what it would have been like for when my dad was younger, when my grandfather was deployed,” Pierce said. “It was still hard not having him be here, but I can’t fully understand how hard it can be since I was able to still talk to him every day.”

The holidays can be a trying time when a family member is overseas. However, any day can be hard for students, and support from friends and the community is necessary.

“It’s really different from having them home all the time to no contact,” Adkins said. “If you have a friend with family in the service you should be supportive when they are scared. Obviously, you can’t say, ‘I know how you feel,’ but just let them know you care, and that you’re there for them.”

6 discover

Season of...

DEC. 11, 2015

G I V I NG

World Languages starts annual charity drive

By Jack Hiegel staff reporter Every year around this time, students are constantly reminded about the holidays due to the various charity drives started up with the purpose of raising money, food, and supplies for needy families who aren’t fortunate enough to celebrate the holidays as festively or as frivolously as others do. One of these drives is the Adopt-A-Family drive that is put on every year by Mrs. Ashley Mair and the rest of the World Language Department.

This week-long drive, which began after Thanksgiving, had all of the world language classes raise money in order to buy supplies and food for one needy family from FHC. “I ask the counselors for a name of a family here who may be struggling,” Mrs. Mair said. “Then, we go to that family and find out what they need. They come up with a list of things like clothes, food, and other supplies, and the students bring in money.”

This drive has not followed the same process as it does now. According to Mrs. Mair, the school originally participated in another Adopt-A-Family drive that didn’t solely focus on FHC families.

“We started doing something like this eight or nine years ago,” Mrs. Mair said. “Originally, we donated to the Sts. Joachim and Ann [Parish] Adopt-A-Family drive, but we changed it to Adopt-A-Family at our school about two years ago.”

According to Dr. Jennifer Miller, the drive was originally run by the International Club before the group disbanded a few years ago.

“They were a service organization, and the Adopt-AFamily drive was their winter service project. After we stopped doing the group, the department decided to keep the drive going,” Dr. Miller said.

Mrs. Mair, who planned on raising at least $1,000 for the Adopt-A-Family program this year, believes there are some

important reasons behind continuing this drive.

“It is important to get involved in the community and help those people who need helping,” Mrs. Mair said.

However, Dr. Miller had higher expectations for how much money the department will raise this year.

“I hope that we can get around $1,800 this year. That all depends on the students and how much money they are able to give,” Dr. Miller said.

Occasionally, it can be difficult to get students to donate their money to the drive. However, Mrs. Mair has a few methods which she believes will assist her in getting the students to participate.

“I will let them know the importance of giving and how much it would help these families if they gave money to them. We usually have a lot of students give money,” Mrs. Mair said.

Another thing that keeps the students going is the competitiveness between classes. According to senior Kayli Kohr, this motivates the students into giving more.

“The drive becomes really competitive, especially in Mrs. Mair’s class. The students all want to beat the kids in other classes, so they bring in more,” Kohr said.

Dr. Miller backs this point up, citing the great deal of cash that the department has collected in years past as well as the generosity of certain students.

“I think that the biggest amount that we’ve ever collected was around $2,200 or $2,300. A lot of it comes from one or two students every year who give a ton of money,” Dr. Miller said. “Some kids give their whole paycheck or a great deal of it. On the whole, the kids are usually so generous.”

How to say “Merry Christmas” and “Happy Holidays” in other languages: SPANISH: “Feliz Navidad” and “Felices Vacaciones” FRENCH: “Joyeux Noël” and “Bonnes Vacances” GERMAN: “Frohe Weihnachten” and “Schöne Ferien” MANDARIN CHINESE: “Shèngdàn Jié Kuàilè” and “Jiérì Kuàilè’

discover 7

Season of...

DEC. 11, 2015

HELPING

Central Outreach aims to help our community

By Elisa Swanson staff reporter In October, manila folders popped up around school all with the large heading “Central Outreach”. It seemed out of nowhere, a new club had joined the school community.

The club’s main goal, according to sophomore Reagan Wilson, is to help others who are struggling, including the shirts that were for Operation Christmas Child which gifts children living in orphanages with presents.

“It’s an organization where we are going to help out different types of organizations. One of them is making christmas presents for orphanages and another one is, we are going to go to the homeless shelters and making them food. It is just community service things.” Reagan Wilson said.

The club began when senior, Blake Carter,and a couple of kids, including the Wilsons and Maupins, who go to the same church decided they wanted to help others. “[Blake Carter] is the main one that started it. We all know each other and we just thought it’d be a good idea to start something new here.” Reagan Wilson said.

According to Reagan’s sister, Riley Wilson, senior, the students did find it difficult to find a club sponsor with teachers already committed to other activities in the school.

“It was kind of hard just to find a sponsor, teachers are already in other clubs. But once we got a sponsor, it was pretty easy going from there because we have a big amount of kids that were willing to participate in

it.” Riley Wilson said However, getting the club started turned out not to be the hardest struggle. Getting support for the club turned out to be challenging, as well.

“Even though we made a lot of donations with the shirts,” Reagan Wilson said, “we need money and more people just so we can have success in the different things we are doing.”

Claire Maupin, senior and committee member, said with more pressure to be student-driven comes the difficulties of being organized and getting work done.

“It is hard to be organized. We try to basically do everything; we don’t make the teachers do it.” Maupin said.

Founder, Blake Carter, is thankful for the support he does have within our school, that has made this club a reality.

“I am so thankful. It was just an idea last year that has come to life this year.” Carter said, “Last year, I just felt like I wanted to help others here at school. I mean, we don’t have anything specifically for the community outreach. I really wanted to start something specifically for the community.”

For Carter, the entire goal of Central Outreach is to encourage others to give back to their communities because that is when a person finds themselves.

“I just really encourage people to serve, with their whole heart because we really find ourselves when we are in the service of others.” Carter said, “I love loving and caring for those around us.”

Central Outreach made cards for soldiers on Veteran’s Day and plan on sending out at least 80 boxes for Operation Christmas Outreach. They are working with local homeless shelters and Our Lady’s Inn. Their meetings are every Wednesday after school in the library and all are welcome to join.

How to help out others this holiday season “Watch the Wild” for Nature Abounds

Watch your backyard, a local park, lake or path and report your observations

Sports volunteer for KEEN St. Louis

Be a KEEN “coach”, this organization allows children with disabilities to play a variety of sports one-on-one with you, the volunteer.

Host an Exchange Student with Youth For Understanding USA YFU is looking for families to share their traditions with an exchange student or if hosting isn’t an option, YFU is always looking for volunteers to work with exchange families and youth

Volunteer with your pet

VITAS healthcare is searching for people that want to be “paw pals”, basically bring your pet into VITAS

nursing home to patients that miss the devotion to their pets but can no longer take care of a pet

Tutor at Hispanic Outreach center

Help elementary kids with homework or learning skills after school More volunteer opportunities at Volunteermatch.org

8 Discover DEC. 11, 2015

Unrest

at the

Zou

Members of Concerned Students 1950 protested on the campus of the University of Missouri-Columbia in early November seeking to gain change in how the university has handled racial tensions over the past several years.

Seniors must consider if Mizzou is a safe choice for next year Cadence Bippen Print Executive Editor Jessica Schaefermeier is a senior who plans to attend the University of Missouri in the fall of 2016. She, along with thousands of other admitted students, must make a decision: will the recent protests and disagreements on the campus affect her decision in attending the school?

Many have heard of the various protests on campus, including a strike from the football team and a hunger strike of a student, 19 final in response to racial injustices transcripts were being imposed on students sent to Mizzou of color at Mizzou. Quickly, last year by the Francis Howell the commotion gained media Central guidance attention, and less than a week department, after Jonathan Butler’s hunger the fourthstrike began, former University most popular destination for of Missouri president Tim Wolfe the class of 2015. announced his resignation.

There has been much speculation on whether the strikes were called for, and if there was any real reason for them.

“The things that are happening to different races are happening to the whites as well,” Schaefermeier said. “Some sororities are allblack, and are not allowed to do certain things,

19

but all-white sororities are not allowed to do some of the same things.”

Counselor Kris Miller has been keeping updated with the news of Mizzou, considering the amount of his students who end up attending the school each year. He thinks that the issues being reported must be real problems.

“For the football team to say ‘We’re not going to play anymore,’ I think that level of reaction is not an isolated thing,” Miller said.

Miller is concerned the actions taken by students at Mizzou might have been drastic, but doesn’t believe they were uncalled for.

“I think those are passive responses to what they see as injustice, so when we think about civil disobedience and things of that nature, I’d much rather see that reaction [protests and strikes] than rioting in the street,” Miller said.

Schaefermeier has been admitted to the school, and already plans on becoming a Tiger next fall. Even with all the negative attention, she still believes the University of Missouri is the right place for her, because issues can be found at any school, if one looks for them.

Miller still is slightly uneasy about sending students to a school with a possibly racist culture, since he often thinks of his students as his own children.

“I don’t want a student of mine to go to an environment that might be negative or toxic.

But is it something that can be repaired?” Miller said. “Is it a widespread issue? Or in certain pockets of the university? I don’t know.”

Tim Tai is a photojournalist from Mizzou, and after protesters pushed and shoved him away from the scene on the university’s quad he was trying to capture, a video of the incident went viral.

“I assume some people think it’s a travesty that the events on the video happened here,” Tai said, “and have had their impression soured. Others probably think it’s great that our j-school has stood up for student journalists’ right to do their job without being shoved around.”

Tai doesn’t blame the protesters, though, because he believes no one can judge what is appropriate protesting.

“Protest, to a degree, always involves not conforming to rules,” Tai said.

He also doesn’t blame Mizzou. Tai acknowledges there was an issue on campus, and students took a stand. Others can be proud of how minorities fought for their rights and journalists fought for theirs.

“Right now, Mizzou has just become the face of these issues, much like Ferguson became the face of the race-and-policing discussion after Michael Brown was killed,” Tai said. “These problems aren’t by any means unique to Mizzou.”

9

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What we need from you (please write clearly): Your name:____________________________ Year in school:_________________________ Cash or check:_________________________ Date:______________ (ALL CHECKS MUST BE MADE OUT TO FHC PUBLICATIONS)

If you prefer to use a credit card, you can do so at this address: https://ybstore.friesens.com/stores/422005

IMPORTANT DEADLINES: $50 price: from the start of school until Dec. 18, 2015 $65 price: from Dec. 19 until end of school year $75 price: at pick-up, no extra copies guaranteed

RECEIPT

Thanks for ordering your copy of the 2015-16 Odyssey.

Books will be available at registration in the summer of 2016. If you have questions, please contact Matthew Schott at matthew.schott@fhsdschools.org Order date:_______________

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Dates to know FHC Publications has partnered with Club’s Choice to give students a chance to earn a free yearbook.

Sell 15 tubs of cookie dough and you’ll earn a copy of the 2015-16 Odyssey for free! Get order forms at schedule pickup Collect all money and checks (made out to FHC Publications) at the time of order.

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Order forms submitted to Rm. 139 by: Tuesday, Aug. 25 Cookie pick-up: Monday, Sept. 17 in school cafeteria (2:30-5p) All orders MUST be picked up, as FHC Publications has no way to store your cookie dough if it is not picked up Questions?

Ask Mr. Schott at matthew.schott@ fhsdschools.or

10

DEC. 11, 2015

Feature

A look backstage

Photo by Josie Julien

feature

11 DEC. 11, 2015

The Spotlight Players laughed, cried, and fell in love with their latest show, “The Curious Savage”

By Skylar Laird

J

staff reporter

unior Mackenzie Morris, wearing a vintage dress, her stage makeup on, the lights all on her, stands onstage as Florence, the eccentric motherly character in the

Spotlight Players’ production of “The Curious Savage.”

The last show is almost over, and Ferry, played by Rachel Fortney, turns to her and says, “Take an umbrella, it’s raining,” which, as everyone watching the show knows, is code for “I love you.”

The audience erupts in “awww’s” at the sweetness of the moment, having spent two hours falling in love with these characters. But for Morris, she was introduced to Florence all the way back in August; she’s had months to not only fall in love with this character, but to become her.

And this is the last time she gets to be Florence, as she hurries back onstage with a cast of people who have become her family in the past months, spending every day after school together rehearsing, laughing, and just having fun.

It’s not only the cast’s moment, though; this play is an amalgamation of the skills of a hundred people, from the set to the props to the makeup, all working together for three nights of glory before it’s all over.

What the audience sees is just scratching the surface of the work put into this show; it began as merely an idea, the outline of a set, and an actor-less script. Since then, it was a rush to the finish line as production was completed.

“It’s remarkable to see what we start out with, which is basically nothing, and as we go, we all learn and create this show,” assistant stage manager and senior Montana Conway said. “It truly is magical.”

The magic, however, really starts to happen during tech week, the week before production, when every aspect of the show begins to come together onstage. This is the week of chaos and stress as both cast and crews work tirelessly to finish the final details of the show

before it’s seen by an audience.

“Honestly, I didn’t think we were gonna get done on time, and we were really down to the wire, so it went better than I expected,” tech director and junior Emma Entner said, Morris agreed both cast and crew were pressed for time towards the end of production, busy with more than just a few small details.

“The actors were calling (for their) lines up until a couple weeks (before performances)”, she said, “The set took a little while longer than we thought it would to get up, so we (were) kind of cramming, but for the most part, everything (went) as expected.”

The cramming, however, was hardly unexpected — a common occurrence, even, in the theater department. “(Tech week) is a lot of stress. There’s a lot going on, but, as usual, we pulled it together,” Conway said. “You always go into something not knowing how it’s gonna turn out, but we always put on great shows, so I didn’t expect anything less than another one.”

And this show was, indeed, great. Better than the department anticipated, in fact. From a beautifully realistic set to convincing actors to spectacularly quick quick-changes, The Spotlight Players, whether watching from the audience or sitting backstage in the green room, didn’t even need the enthusiastic applause they earned after each performance to know that this was something special.

“I feel like everything went really well. I think the set looked fantastic, and the actors got really into their characters, and I don’t think they all expected it to turn out this way,” Entner said. “We all thought it was just going to be another show, but it turned out to be everybody’s favorite.”

Sophomore Sophia Calignaoan, the makeup crewhead, agreed seeing this show come together was a uniquely incredible experience.

“It was so awesome. It was like the coolest thing. I was like, ‘Wow,’” she said breathlessly, her eyes lighting up as she recounted the experience. “And seeing all the actors and actresses in their makeup and costumes and on the set, it was just so cool.”

As Morris walked offstage, seeing smiling faces all around her, the fantastic performance she had just given wasn’t even the best part; it was the people she got to perform with.

“My favorite part has been that all my best friends are on cast with me so I got to spend every day with them,” Morris said. “We all just have a good time and have fun on and off stage.”

This sense of family was felt throughout the whole department; freshman Olivia Hritzkowin, who played Miss Paddy, could feel it from the very beginning of production.

“It’s really cool,” she said. “It’s a great community of people. And (the show) was amazing. I loved it. It was like, ‘Oh my gosh, this is actually happening!’”

Of course, as much fun as it was, it’s not a show without the bittersweet feeling of knowing the show was over after the many months spent perfecting it.

“It was so happy-sad,” Morris said. “In the video afterwards, our historian put a video from us rehearsing with a video from the show, so to see them side-by-side was just really sad and really touching, because it was just so amazing that we put it all together.”

But this isn’t it for the Spotlight Players this year; the school still has the spring musical, “The Wizard of Oz,” to look forward to in April, and, according to Morris, it will be a show worth seeing.

“The musical is gonna be awesome. So awesome,” she said. “‘The Wizard of Oz’ is just an awesome show as is, and we have so many talented people this year. We have tons of new freshmen bringing in a lot of new talent, so hopefully we’ll see a lot of new faces. It’s gonna be really exciting.”

12 FEATURE DEC. 11, 2015

Missouri Artists on Main (321 South Main)

Experience Missouri Artists on Main, a 200-year old building, where more than 40 artists share their art on both the upper and lower floor. On both floors there is an artist to welcome you and discuss not only their work, but the other artists’ works as well. Classes are also available to those interested in learning how to make art, use different techniques, and meet fellow artists. Find the artist inside you and visit them soon.

My Handyworks, LLC (104 South Main Street)

My Handyworks is “your interactive art studio,” where you can make dream catchers, let the outline of your hand create a masterpiece, and even dip your hand in wax and make a painted mold. After dipping your hand in wax, it cools and sets, and stays in the position, after this you can decorate it with paint colors, glitter, splatter, and rainbow. This is available for ages 4 and up, so hands in, and make something beautiful.

Picasso’s Coffee House (101 North Main Street)

Bike Stop Cafe (610 South Main Street)

Grab a bite and go. The Bike Stop Cafe offers not only delicious foods and drinks, but bikes to be rented. On the menu, there are even options such as veggie burgers, for our vegetarians out there. Tandems (bikes for two), or just regular bikes are available to rent. Grab yourself some food before for the trail, and head out biking.

Open daily with fresh roasted locally whole bean coffees, novus tea, and gifts, that can also be ordered online. With live entertainment by local musicians, this coffee house is the place to be.

With delicious coffee and a relaxed atmosphere, “Make Picasso’s your house coffee.”

Kernel Dave’s (710 South Main Street)

Kernel Dave’s is poppin. With more than 80 flavors of popcorn to chose from, it’s “Always fresh and always fun.” In addition to selling flavored popcorn they also sell seasoning powder for your popcorn, and snacks such as double dipped chocolate covered peanuts, Swedish fish, and many more. Popcorn flavors are both exotic and classic, ranging from Apple Jack’s, banana bread, and cherry chocolate chunk, to Chicago, cheddar, and kettle. So go ahead and treat yourself to countless flavors of popcorn.

Hidden gems Take a look at the best hidden places on Main Street St. Charles to find a new favorite place

feature

13 DEC. 11, 2015

By Emily Mann Discover Editor

Little O’s Soda Shop (125 North Main Street)

Little O’s gooey butter cakes were rated as the ninth-best gooey butter cake in Missouri. But that’s not all they specialize in. The soda shop also sells wonderful malts, delicious milkshakes, nostalgic candy, and fantastic ice cream. Give yourself a sweet treat, and head down to Little O’s.

Bathhouse Soapery (401 South Main)

Main Street Books (307 South Main Street)

Main Street Books has just the book for you; kids books, French poetry, classics, series such as “The Twilight Zone,” and even baking books can be found here. You name it, they’ve got it, and they can even ship it to you, anywhere.

On occasion, book signings with authors take place. There are also free books to be taken — everyone loves free stuff. Another neat thing is they have a “gas light pick,” or books recommended by others, on the wall, with a brief description of why they liked the book. So even if you don’t have any idea what to get, they do.

Come on in, and start reading.

Grandma’s Cookies (401 South Main Street) Here at Grandma’s, there’s never enough cookies, “A balanced diet is a cookie in each hand.” Cookies, cookie cakes, cookie platters, corporate gift boxes, and gift certificates are available. Grandma’s can also host birthday parties with 15 people or less. You’ve got to try Grandma’s Cookies.

Bathhouse Soapery is all about “Making your ‘me time’ dazzling.” Here they sell sugar scrubs, fizzing bath bombs, and soy candles, products similarly found in stores like Lush, but many will find Bathhouse Soapery is a far better choice.

Bathhouse Soapery’s soap is handcrafted and homemade, specialized for sensitive skin, 98 percent organic, and most importantly, much more affordable. To put that into perspective at Lush a 5.9oz bath bomb is $7.50, whereas Bathhouse Soapery’s bath bomb is $6, and a solid .4oz perfume. Candles, both oil and solid perfumes, facial care, deodorants, moisturizers and much more are also sold here. Indulge in your ‘me time,’ at Bathhouse Soapery.

14

ADS

DEC. 11, 2015

Important testing info Finals DEC. 18: 1st, 2nd and 6th hour finals DEC. 21: (half day): 3rd and 4th hour finals DEC. 22: (half day): 5th and 7th hour finals Exam exemptions Are due today, Dec. 11, in your principal’s office by 3 p.m

Your Christmas shop for Lilly Pulitzer & Vera Bradley gifts Christine’s Christmas Challenge — we’ll help you find a gift for everyone on your Christmas list!

Only at Christine’s Hallmark 6069 Mid Rivers Mall Drive Cottleville, Mo. 636-926-3373 in the Schnuck’s & Office Max shopping center

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THIS IS DUE ON Jan. 15, 2016

OUR PUBLICATIONS Which one is for you? (please circle those you are interested in) NEWSPAPER (CENTRAL FOCUS) YEARBOOK (ODYSSEY) WEB (FHCTODAY.COM) TV (iFOCUS) PHOTOGRAPHY (ALL)

HOW TO GET IN The simplest way to become a member of FHC Publications is to take any of the below: Journalism (writing and reporting) Digital photojournalism (photography) Intro to Broadcast Journalism (TV) AP Language & Composition (Fay recommendation) Graphic Design 1 or 2 Take any of those three and get a good grade and you’re in. Also, these classes will prepare you for Newspaper Production and Yearbook Production.

Additionally, get a great recommendation or being super talented will get you into the room.

JOIN FHC PUBLICATIONS

WHAT YOU GET 1. GREAT TECHNOLOGY. We’ve got high-quality cameras and a ton of them. Take your skills in either still or video to the next level. Adobe Creative Suite 6. 21-inch Macs. A GoPro and a quadracopter.

2. FREEDOM! Students make all content decisions for each publication. If you’ve got an idea for a story, chase it. Also, you get freedom in the class.

Room 139 is always filled with activity. Get out of your desk and start being creative with us! You can also earn an honors point and create a project about whatever you’re interested in.

3. MR. SCHOTT ROCKS. He is the 2010 Missouri Journalism Adviser of the Year. In 2013 he was a Special Recognition Adviser recognized by the Dow Jones News Fund.

4. HAVE FUN! Yeah, we said it. Fun. While we take the work we create very seriously, you’d be hardpressed to find a more enjoyable and educational experience at FHC.

ABOUT US

Be a part of the best!

ABOUT YOU

www.christineshallmark.com

OUR PUBLICATIONS ROCK. The newspaper, website and yearbook are consistently rated among the best in the state and the nation. Come be a part of excellence and help us get better.

OUR STUDENTS ROCK! Kelci Davis, a 2012 grad, was the runner-up in the National Student Journalist of the Year competition and the Missouri Student Journalist of the Year. Students

consistently place very high in national and state competitions for writing, photography and graphic design.

WE WORK HARD. These classes require hard work and dedication. A lot of what we cover takes place after school, so yeah, there’s some after school work. Class time is filled with work. It’s fun, but making great journalism takes time and talent.

FINALLY, your mom or dad needs to read this and sign off on it. We want both of you to know that there is extra time involved. Monthly work nights, planned in advance, as well as other time after school is always necessary.

Your signature: Parent signature:

5. GAIN SKILLS TO HELP YOU IN COLLEGE AND YOUR CAREER. Not just the obvious skills like being a better writer or photographer or editor.

You’ll learn how to work with others, manage your time, become a leader, and work within a budget.

That sounds boring now, but your future employer will love it.

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DEC. 11, 2015

focus

Are you ready for real life?

H igh school is a place of learning and preparation for the real world. However,

students often feel as if they are not ready for the “big kid� issues that come

after graduation. In this guide, students will find various problems and possible solutions to real life concerns they may face one day.

Relationships

School

How to have a good relationship 16 Kaleigh Zehnle

How to ask someone on a date 19 Kaleigh Zehnle

How to be your own person

17

How to get scholarships

Real life 18

How to apply for a job

17

How to write a resume

Kaleigh Zehnle

How to study Skylar Laird

17

Will Sills

18

Will Sills

How to handle a pregnancy

16

Leslie Sutton

Leslie Sutton

How to have a healthy mindset 19

How to fix household appliances 18

Skylar Laird

Leslie Sutton

Look for Leo throughout the Central Focus as he points out some of the most important tips

16

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DEC. 11, 2015

Survey results

The Central Focus surveyed 100 students to find out which skills they felt were most important to know once leaving high school

Write a resume

69%

of students felt this skill to be important to know as an adult

Get scholarships

59%

Apply for a job

52% 47% Have a healthy

Balance checkbook

mindset

41% 31% Use a credit card 26% Study 22% Own/care for a car

Relationships

Be in a healthy relationship

22% 21% Change oil 19%

Be your own person

Fix household appliances

18%

Schedule an appointment

13%

Handle a pregnancy

11%

Behave at a fancy dinner

10%

how to be in a h e a l relationship

t

h

y

If you’re in a relationship, it’s necessary to balance it with friends, family, school, work, etc., but this could become difficult, especially as teenagers who are also trying to find themselves and become independent.

Here are some ways to help maintain this balance and your independence when in a relationship.

Your boyfriend/girlfriend can be your best friend, but not your only friend.

Instead of hanging out with them every night, leave some nights for friends. If you go to a party together, there’s no need to be attached at the hip every second of it. On the other hand, if you need some alone time, take a night or two to hang out by yourselves.

Don’t define yourself just by being soand-so’s girlfriend or boyfriend. Yes, they are a major part of your life, but keep up with your other activities and hobbies alongside your relationship.

Decide on a college not just because your significant other is going there,

but because you really want to go there.

College is about branching out and meeting new people, and if your relationship is meant to be, then long distance will work out. Also, if you end up going to the same college because you both feel it’s the one for you, that’s perfectly acceptable.

Don’t listen to what other people say about your relationship. If you two are happy, don’t worry if you’re not somebody else’s “relationship goals.”

The bottom line is to do what feels right and be happy together.

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DEC. 11, 2015

How to on a date

How to healthy mindset

have

a

A healthy mindset begins and ends with you; it’s all about you and what makes you happy.

It begins with figuring out what makes you happy and what makes you less-than-happy, then sorting those things into two categories: what you can change and what you can’t. For example, if school is an unhappy idea for you, there’s nothing beneficial you can do to change it, but if it’s something impermanent ruining your mood, you can fix that!

Once you have figured out what you can change and what you can’t, change what you can. Surround

ask

someone

HOW TO PERSON

BE

YOUR

OWN

If you really like someone, you might decide to ask them on a date, but that can be nervewracking and scary, especially without proper preparation. Here are some steps to help prepare you and calm your nerves.

Find a good time to ask the girl or boy out (yes, girls can ask out guys too). This could be at school when you see them at their locker or at lunch or in a class where you sit next to them. Just don’t do it randomly over text because you want to show this person you care enough to talk to them face to face.

Work up the courage to do it. The worst that can happen is that they say no, and then you can just move on with your life instead of wondering what could have been if you had asked them.

Take some deep breaths and calm yourself down.

You want to seem confident and in control, not nervous and fidgety. Confidence is attractive and would impress the person.

Break the ice first. Say something funny if you’re funny. Or something sincere if you’re sincere. Just be yourself.

Ask them! And don’t care about what happens after. If they say yes, fantastic! If they say no, they aren’t the one for you and you just avoided spending a long time caring about someone who didn’t want a relationship with anyone.

Understand that your views may be influenced by other people. You may get concerned that your views are those that belong to other people, and that’s okay. Sharing in other people’s views is a part of life.

Try not to confuse agreement with blindly following someone. To be your own person, you need to understand what you believe and why. To make sure your opinions are true, feel free to educate yourself elsewhere beyond your normal day people or websites.

Have fun with who you are. If you want to do something, go for it. Say you want to become more educated on a certain topic - there’s nothing stopping you from reading up on it and being well versed in it. Maybe you want to change your style; the only thing in the way is yourself. Time may be the enemy, whether it be not having enough of it, using too much of it, or it just takes too long.

Remind yourself anything worthwhile takes time.

Use it to help yourself grow into the person you want to be.

yourself with positivity, with people and things that make you happy.

Although it’s impossible for everything in your life to be positive, begin to focus on the good aspects of the negatives, such as how you can learn from them or how they will benefit you in the future. If you focus on what makes you happy, suddenly, everything seems more positive.

There are also a few physical ways to make your mind healthier, like getting more sleep and reducing your level of stress. Even eating healthier can help improve your attitude; a happy body leads to a happy mind.

A healthy mindset isn’t all about relentless positivity; it’s about being in touch with your emotions, good

and bad. Making positive changes to your life is a good start, but recognizing your emotions is what makes you truly healthy mentally. Address your emotions appropriately, and assess how you can change the negative ones and retain the positive ones.

Above all else, changing your mindset is an ongoing process. Make sure you take a step back every once in awhile and ask yourself if you’re happy. If the answer is yes, figure out how to remain happy.

If the answer is no, ask yourself why and do your best to either improve or change the situation completely. Remember that this is all about you and your life; you alone have the power to make yourself happy.

Confidence is key. When speaking to someone who may be intimidating, remember how great you are! Before caring about what someone else thinks of you, make sure you like what YOU think of YOU.

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DEC. 11, 2015

School How to study Studying really depends on who you are and how your mind works. Some methods work for some people, and not for others, and that’s okay! The key is to figure out what works best for you. There are a few basic tips that can help you get started.

First of all, find a good studying environment.

Somewhere quiet, with few distractions, and comfy, but not so comfy you’ll fall asleep in the middle of your review.

Once you’ve found your optimal environment, the fun part begins. Different classes sometimes require different techniques, but for the most part, it’s pretty straightforward across the board: using the materials given in class, review what you feel you need to.

Index cards are awesome when attempting to memorize vocabulary and other simpler concepts, and just rewriting or highlighting notes makes them much easier to remember.

Don’t stress too much, either; take a break every 20 or 25 minutes to stretch, get a snack, and relax.

Use music to help yourself relax. The type of music depends on you and how you focus; some people prefer wordless classical music, but some - like me - focus better with lyrics. It’s all about what helps you learn.

Not cramming helps a lot with the stress of studying, too; if you begin a few days before the test, the pressure the night before decreases significantly. Then, the night before, review the material you know you struggle with before bed, as studies have shown that people retain information better if they review it right before they fall asleep.

Most importantly, though, have fun. I know studying and fun seem like oxymorons, but it is possible to make studying enjoyable. Meet up with some friends, quiz each other, do your studying over coffee or hot chocolates, turn on some good music - this part is up to you.

Don’t stress too much, but don’t blow it off, either; so much of studying depends on what you prefer, so make it your own and make it something you enjoy.

Studying gets infinitely better if you don’t dread it.

How to get scholarships College is stressful: you have to decide where to go and what major you want and fill out applications and write essays and besides just applying to the schools, you have to apply and write essays for scholarships. If you don’t apply for scholarships, you’ll probably be waist-deep in student debt, something no one wants to be.

These are some tips to help you find and receive as many scholarships as you can.

After applying to the schools you want, check their websites for scholarship opportunities. Colleges will have some automatic scholarships, which you can get based off of your GPA, ACT scores, class rank, etc. There will also be ones that you have to apply for separately. For these, you will just need to read through and figure out which ones apply to you, and then complete those applications.

Ask your counselor about scholarship opportunities.

It’s their job to help you get to college, so they will be more than willing to help you find more scholarships.

Take advantage of other scholarships your school offers. In the guidance office here at FHC there is a bin that has many different scholarships you can apply for, and most people don’t know about them or take the time to apply.

Look up scholarships on scholarship search websites. There are plenty of good websites out there for finding scholarships. Some include www. scholarships.com, www.fastweb.com/collegescholarships, and www.finaid.org/scholarships.

To complete any of these types of scholarships, make sure you have all of the required parts. This can include questions about personal information, essays, and teacher recommendations. As easy as it is to procrastinate, try to complete these items earlier rather than later in order to have the best chance at receiving scholarships.

How to fill out a resume Use a word document and type it. There are formats you can use, however it is not something set in stone. You can be the judge of what’s important and what’s not.

Some examples of important info include important info such as full name, date of birth, and address.

Include statistics such as grades, ACT scores, SAT scores, and class rank List previous employment, leadership roles, and community service.

List any other extracurricular activities.

Use any other information that could look good to colleges, jobs, etc.

Use a standard font; either arial or Times New Roman.

Use a formal tone and make use of bullet points.

This doubles as both a job resume and as a college application.

Finally, remember that everything will be okay and relax. You might not get that job that you want, but that doesn’t mean you never will.

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19 DEC. 11, 2015

How to Apply for a Job Find companies that are hiring. Any will do to be honest. Most places will have signs that say they are hiring if, in fact, they are. Another way is to just go into a store/company and ask if they are hiring. You can ask the manager, general manager, or cashier.

Choose around five different companies that you would like to work for.

Compare all of the positives and negatives, such as wages, hours, discounts, and the distance to and from work.

Decide what kind of hours and pay you would desire. While it would be nice to make ten bucks and hour, you should probably ask for minimum wage ($7.65 an hour). The hours, however, are completely up to you.

Go to the company and ask to fill out an application or fill it out online. If you go into the company store/office, look presentable. You don’t need a suit and a tie, but you do need to look nice. Don’t show up looking like you just left the set of “The Texas Chainsaw Massacre.”

Keep your phone on in case the company calls back.

Be prepared to look for another job in case the company doesn’t call back. Callbacks will happen anywhere from a couple of days later to possibly two months later.

Real life How to fix household appliances Make sure your item is plugged in and turned on. It may be silly, but it’s an actual problem.

Check over your item. Can you locate what is broken? Is it a physical problem with the item or is it in the wiring? By identifying this, you can begin to work towards finding a solution.

Try to find the manual for the appliance. If you find it, good job! Identify the part that is broken. If you cannot find the manual, find the model number of the item. Google the item, and see if you can find what is broken.

Trouble-shoot on the internet. The internet is an unlimited resource and you can use it to your advantage. See if someone posted a youtube tutorial of them fixing the item, or a how-to guide.

Gather your supplies necessary to fix your item. This may involve a trip to the hardware store, or multiple, depending on how good you are with lists.

Attempt to fix the item based off of the information you have gained. If your item is deemed “unfixable,” check your warranty. Someone else can come and fix or replace your item if it is still valid.

If all else fails, call a repairman. If the item doesn’t have a repairman, it may have become time to replace it.

Don’t procrastinate!

Whether you’re applying for scholarships or for a job, it is best to finish things as soon as you can.

HOW TO HANDLE PREGNANCY Every kid goes through the school’s sex education system. Everyone hears the same words, “Don’t have sex. You’ll get pregnant. And you’ll die.” Jokes aside, our sex education system is really short-minded. Abstinence isn’t reality for all, and when it’s not, things we aren’t educated on tend to happen (hence, y’know, pregnancy.)

You have permission to freak out. Go ahead. Scream if you need to. Sob, curse, punch a wall, whatever you need. Cry tears of elation, call your mom in excitement, jump for joy. After getting that out though, take a deep breath. This happens to so many people yearly, daily even. Pregnancy is natural and a common part of everyday life, it has happened a million times before, people have been in your position time after time before.

Get educated. The worst thing people do is make plans before knowing all the information necessary. Check into your doctor to get info from them. Feel free to google anything - and by anything I mean everything. Avoid non-doctoral websites, because they might have skewed information that could greatly affect your education. Find books or magazines on pregnancy.

Examine yourself. Take an unbiased look at your life and ask yourself, “Can I handle raising a child like this?” or, more importantly, “will a child be happy in this situation?” If you even hesitate in coming up with an answer, understand you have other options. Don’t get pushed into something you’ll regret, this is your decision and your decision alone. If you feel as if your environment will be fit for a child, continue in whatever choice you feel is right.

Make sure you keep your body in tip top shape. Get all your vitamins, cut out caffeine, take prenatals, do whatever you can to make sure you’re healthy. If prenatal care is too expensive, Planned Parenthood provides it for those who need help. Make sure you’re an appropriate weight to carry a child - certain weights can cause complications in your pregnancy. Visit your doctor or an OB/GYN and make sure everything is going okay with your body so it can be the home for a developing child for the next 9 months. Although the appointment may be scary, it’s important to understand your body and reproductive health.

Understand that your emotions will fluctuate. Make sure you find people to confide in and talk to about your situation. Keeping all your emotions bottled up inside is never helpful in any situation. Although your hormones are cause emotional up and down, try not to blame them solely for your actions. You are still in control.

20

DEC. 11, 2015

move

Pros to playing a sport

“You build a special bond with them because you win and lose with them.”

- sophomore Emily Hall “Keeps me out of trouble.”- Rachel Mossotti “Learning new things about the sport you love.”- Nicole Webb “Camaraderie and teamwork.” - Kristy Eslinger “Build connections and bonds with coaches and teammates, you will always have a second family.”Carson Patton “Make pretty good friends.”- Sienna Thorpe

Play more.

STRESS LESS

Sports help relieve stress, seasonal depression

By Emily Mann Discover Editor It can be argued that some are simply too busy or too stressed to join a sport or team, but engaging in a sport can be stress-relieving. Sports and regular exercise provide physical and mental stress relief, which can help certain mental health disorders like depression and anxiety.

“Sometimes it helps you relax after a stressful day, but sometimes if you have a lot of homework on top of it it can get kind of stressful, but when you love your sport that you play then it’s always fun playing it,” sophomore Dakota Thorpe said.

The friendship and camaraderie that comes from joining a team sport can reduce stress. Also, regular exercise can help increase your feeling of self-worth, which can be a powerful mechanism for alleviating stress.

“It was a big part of my life for the past two years,” junior Nicole Webb said. “I miss [my friends on] the team ... and going out there and being able to play after school everyday.”

For senior, Rachel Mossotti sports provided a sense of comfort in a new school.

“When I came here I transferred from a private school so

that really made me get out there and make some friends,” Mossotti said.

Any type of physical activity stimulates the amount of neurotransmitters, or chemicals in the brain, known as endorphins that your body produces. These endorphins produced are responsible for the feeling of “runner’s high.”

All in all, increased levels of endorphins cause a “feelgood” response, decrease pain and help relieve symptoms of stress and tension.

For sophomore Carson Patton, sports is an outlet, and can make bad days better to him he feels there are only good results from joining a sport. “[Joining a sport] would help some people if they want to stay fit, have some more friends, or be less stressed,” Patton said.

Not only has physical activity been proven to reduce stress, it has also been effective in treatment for seasonal affective disorder (SAD). Seasonal depression is a type of depression that follows seasons. The more common cases of SAD, or seasonal affective disorder, is called winter depression, which usually begins in late fall/early winter, and normal mood returns in the summer.

“Yes [I think seasons affect my mood] I’m always happier in the summer and spring,” senior Kristy Eslinger said.

Facts about seasonal depression:

* Seasonal affective disorder is estimated to affect 10 million Americans. *Another 10 percent to 20 percent may have mild SAD. *SAD is more common in women than in men. *6% require hospitalization.

Symptoms of winter depression:

A drop in energy level Decreased physical activity Difficulty concentrating

Treatment for winter depression:

Plan pleasurable activities for the winter season Plan physical activities Take advantage of available sunlight.

move 21 DEC. 11, 2015

LEFT: Junior Emma Wolf lines up a put during a match against Zumwalt East.

Photos by Dakota Wisdom

RIGHT: Wolf at swim practice touching off the wall for another lap in the pool.

Photos by Taylor Tinnes

changing

Sophomore Lizzie Orf, softball and basketball

“Basketball is all about skill and physical, but softball is mental because if you get up to bat and strikeout then it’s all in your head.”

GEARS

Junior Dylan Gillette, football and wrestling

Athletes talk about difficulties of participating in back-to-back sports

“I have to gain for football then drop 20 to 30 pounds during November for wrestling.”

By Elizabeth Gerger staff reporter Junior Emma Wolf is trading in her golf clubs, which she used to get her to state this year, for her swimming goggles. She is one of many athletes preparing for the fast approaching winter sports season.

Wolf placed 62nd at state this fall and is looking forward for swimming to start up.

“Golf and swim are two totally different sports. In swim you want to cheer for yourself and your team, but in golf we kind of just cheer for ourselves,” said Wolf.

Unlike Wolf, senior Colton Schweigert doesn’t get anytime in between seasons. Schweigert plays soccer then transitions over to basketball.

Although the transition is quick, Schweigert doesn’t think it is much of a physical change between seasons.

“They [the coaches] get us in pretty good shape for soccer, so basketball doesn’t tire me that much,” said Schweigert.

LEFT: Senior Colton Schweigert sprints up field during a soccer game against Howell North.

RIGHT: Schweigert sprints up court during a practice on Nov. 30.

Photos by Belle Herrera

Sophomore Amanda Henderson, cross country and basketball

“Basketball is sprinting from one end to another, which is continuous, but cross country is longer and you really have to push yourself.”

Junior Nathan Garthe, football and basketball

“Football is more strenuous on your body, but basketball wears you out more. So the difference of going from a physical sport to an exhausting sport.”

22

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DEC. 11, 2015

School spirits Students tell how they think school spirit plays a major role in the high school experience

By Becca Abrams

W Voice editor

alking into the stands of the gym or the football field doesn’t mean nothing. Maybe the people there are for their sons or daughters, maybe it’s brothers and sisters, aunts and uncles.

But what about that very last section seated, or more likely than not, standing, by the band? That section represents the spirit and community when it comes to high school. For senior Kaitlin Nolan, it’s her school spirit that makes the best of those moments before the game even begins. “ Y o u r adrenaline i s pu m pi ng, yo u r

blood is flowing, and all of this energy that you have building up inside is indescribable.”

High school is supposed to be the place where everyone can make friends, memories, and discover who they are. When someone asks you about highschool, what is going to be your initial response? Will you remember the math test you failed, the time your teacher didn’t allow you to use the restroom, or the sense of community and family ties you felt towards your peers?

Will you want high school to be something you can remember or are you just trying to get by?

Students such as Faith Hiles (Junior), Abby Dwyer (Senior), Kaitlin Nolan (Senior), and activities director Scott Harris all believe that participation and community within the student body creates an overall positive outlook on how students view high school.

The opinions differ from person to person on whether they find school spirit essential.

It ranges from those who participate in every sporting event, spirit weeks, and pep

rallies, to those who roll their eyes at the thought of school spirit and those who are indifferent.

“I’d say that having school spirit definitely contributes to your

high school experience because, in my humble opinion, being involved is what makes high school so memorable. You’ll remember the times you dressed up like a tacky tourist and participated in assemblies,” Hiles said.

From day one of walking into high school, students have been told to get involved, whether it be a sport or any clubs. There’s a reason that they mention that numerous times and it is not to annoy you. According to schoolthemes. org, school spirit can improve a student’s commitment to education which can act as a deterrent to negative behavior. It creates a good learning atmosphere and students tend to enjoy high school more.

“Taking part and showing school spirit allows all of our students to be involved with our contests and games, not just the participants. It allows everyone to feel a vested part in the school and game,” Mr. Harris said.

There has been talk of some feuds between those that participate and those that don’t; however, that is a fallacy. Believe it or not, high school is a place where students get to make their own decisions on what they do or do not want to participate in.

“For those that don’t like spirit week, that’s okay. High school is for you to have fun and figure out what your interests really are; but it’s also not cool to bash on other people and call them ‘lame’ for going all out and participating,” Hiles said.

High school is supposed to be “the best years” and maybe the best years include going to every school sporting event or activity or maybe it doesn’t. All in all, the time spent in high school is a blink of an eye so why not make the most of it?

Senior Kaitlin Nolan shows her school spirit at every football game and by being out on the court.

Free spirits

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23 DEC. 11, 2015

Students speak out on why they prefer not to participate in after-school events

By Dulci Hedges

H

Staff reporter igh school is known to be “the best four years of your life”, but for many people, this is quite the opposite.

Obviously, there are a lot of things to participate in outside of the classes we take here. There’s clubs, sports, and other various activities to engage in, but for some, these just aren’t worth it. They don’t make high school worthwhile. For some, school spirit just isn’t their “thing.”

Senior Teddy Harris chooses not to show school spirit for several reasons, “I think that it leads to things like people thinking their school is better than everybody else. I think it's stupid to support a certain school because you were forced to go there because you live in a specific area.” Harris says. But although he doesn’t participate, he’s not completely against it.

“I don't discourage it. I discourage the division it creates, so I stay away from it.” Harris states.

Like Harris, many people feel like they’re on the fence with school spirit, like Harris said, he doesn’t discourage school spirit, he’s just not interested. But some feel very strongly about not participating in any extracurricular activities. Senior Nadeen Ahmed has a firm thought on the topic.

“High school is just so incredibly inconvenient for me. If I literally must be bound to a classroom by law for 7-8 hours a day, I will not willingly stay any longer than I have to.” Ahmed remarks.

Although some believe the only necessity to make high school a more pleasant experience supports the idea that “misery loves company” and junior Alicia Merry thinks friends are the

most important part. “ I believe the high school experience these days is meeting new people and making lifetime friends and then all the stress and anxiety that comes with the actual school aspect of it.” Merry responds.

Part of the reason some feel so strongly about this is that they believe some clubs or sports are favored over one another, and that having an equal amount of support is essential for unity in a school. Senior Cameron Greer brings this idea up, “Honestly I don't see the point in school spirit. People in this school are so hypocritical. Everyone will root for one team that's doing really well and hardly even announce on the intercom a club or team that isn't as ‘popular’.” Greer explains.

For some, school spirit is the best part about high school. Being able to cheer on your fellow classmates in whatever sport or club they are a part of can be exciting, but for those not in these activities, most feel they have other important things to focus on.

“I have grades to focus on and work and family a lot of other things that come before having school spirit to me.” Greer later states.

Clearly there’s quite a divide between those with school spirit and those without it, but it’s important in high school to do what you want to do, whether that be in the football stands on Friday night, on the field, or at home with your friends or family watching a movie. It’s necessary to find your niche, whatever it may be. Afterall, we are stuck here for four years.

Senior Jake Volmer prefers to stay home over attending school events Photos by Taylor Tinnes

24 connect DEC. 11, 2015

Photos. Video. Breaking news. FHCtoday.com is the place to go for anything you want to know about what’s happening at FHC.

CUSTOM SCREENPRINTING & EMBROIDERY

The Spotlight Players had their production of The Curious Savage on Nov. 19, 20 and 21. Use this QR code to read a story about the play.

The Mandarin Chinese class started up in the halls of FHC. Use this QR code to learn about the new class taking FHC by storm.

publications 25

2

nd

9

th

focus CENTRAL

CENTRAL

focus

9

th

DEC. 11, 2015

Volume 19, Issue 2 Nov. 6, 2015 Francis Howell Central High School

Volume 18, Issue 2 Oct. 30, 2014 Francis Howell Central High School

The

Pressure to be PERFECT

Three students ditch their phones to experience digital darkness for a week

Students face the challenge of balancing the pressures of achieving perfection in apperance, academics, athletics, and social life.

BE A PART OF SOME OF THE BEST PUBLICATIONS IN THE COUNTRY!

FHC Publications students earn national and state recognition each year. At our most recent national competition, senior Morgan Brader took second place in a national design contest. FHCToday and the newspaper you’re reading, took ninth place in the Publication Website and Newsmagazine categories.

In students own words: “I like the freedom we have to do as we wish and have responsibility.”

“I like that we get to share the memories we make with our student body and that we tell the story of our year through our pictures.”

“Everyone has a story, and every story is worth being heard. It is so fun to get to know people and then take their words, face, drawings, and turn them into a medium on a page in a book that they can look back on and remember.”

“The class gets to run itself and be responsible for their work and deadlines.”

“Nothing is better than seeing something that is in your mind come to life through the web, newspaper or yearbook.”

“I love the atmosphere of room 139.”

APPLY NOW!

Stop by Room 139 to talk with Mr. Schott about how you can become the next great journalist at FHC. Get an application to join either the newspaper or yearbook classes at the semester.

We’re looking for the following people: WRITERS. PHOTOGRAPHERS. VIDEOGRAPHERS. EDITORS. SOCIAL MEDIA MAVENS. GRAPHIC DESIGNERS. Come be a part of the best!

26

adS

DEC. 11, 2015

2015-16 SENIOR AD FORM 1/8 page Color $70

AD SIZES

1/4 page Color $100

1/2 page Color $130

Full page Color $250

circle your ad size please

Student’s name: _____________________________________ Advertiser’s name:____________________________________ Advertiser’s e-mail:____________________________________ Advertiser’s phone #:__________________________________ Messages for the ad should be emailed to Mr. Schott at matthew.schott@fhsdschools.org You may email the form in the email field or attach a Microsoft Word document.

FHC Publications prefers you to send photos via email as well, but does accept hard copies of photos. We will also email a proof of your ad to the email address provided above.

PHOTO DETAILS

1/8 page = 1 photo 1/4 page = 2 photos 1/2 page = 4-6 photos Full page = 6-8 photos

Please submit photos with this form or via e-mail to: matthew.schott@ fhsdschools.org Photos e-mailed should be scanned at 300 ppi. All photos in the book must run at 300 ppi (if you need help, please e-mail us!)

Please make sure you own the copyright of the photo.

The staff of the Odyssey reserves the right to not publish any photo it deems unfit for publication or that do no adhere to guidelines

DETAILS All ads must be paid in full at the time of submission. Check should be made out to: FHC Publications.

The last day ads will be accepted is Dec. 22, 2015 (see right).

Please include a self-addressed, stamped envelope if you want your photos returned.

If you have questions or concerns, please contact Mr. Matthew Schott at matthew.schott@fhsdschools.org Please mail submissions to: Matthew Schott, 5199 Hwy. N. St. Charles, Mo. 63304

SENIOR DATES TO KNOW:

All of the dates listed below are firm. No exceptions will be made.

Fundraiser forms due for free yearbook: 8/25/15 Cookie dough pickup: 9/17/15 Senior photos taken at Cilento Photography (636.237.2732 for an appointment) Yearbook price increases to $65: 12/19/15 Senior ad forms due (no late fee): 12/11/15 Last day ad forms can be accepted (with $25 late fee): 12/22/15 Questions?

Email matthew.schott@ fhsdschools.org

Stressed voice for the

27 DEC. 11, 2015

Staff reporter

tests; he began as an innocent kid, enthusiastic about learning, loving school.

“I felt like (testing) put a lot of pressure on me,

on their mind could flunk an important test, leaving them in less advanced classes, with a blemish on their report card, or unable to get into the college

Twenty students sit in a classroom before a big test, reviewing study guides, making nervous jokes, and shaking with anxiety. It’s a familiar scene: anyone who has ever taken a standardized test has witnessed it, whether it’s before finals, ACTs, EOCs, or simply a unit test in a difficult class.

Every test has seen the sweat of nervous kids, felt the tremor of their pencils as they fill in the bubbles, full and dark, just like they’ve been taught since elementary school. The anxiety radiates off these kids as they pray for answer after answer to be correct. No longer is school about creating a learning environment; it’s about passing the test.

The practice of standardized testing is nearly sadism, causing high schoolers to have higher levels of anxiety than the standard 1950’s psychiatric patient, according to Psychology Today. When testing, all that matters to students is the test. They are reduced to a percentage of questions correct, to a letter representing a grade.

“Before taking a test, I’m pretty stressed out, because I want to get good grades. During it, I just feel really confused, and afterwards, I feel like I utterly failed it,” Sophomore Chase Thompson said.

Thompson, just like every other high schooler, has to take standardized tests in all of his classes during finals week. He is familiar with the feeling of nerves in his stomach as he regurgitates all the facts he has been taught onto a piece of paper.

And he agrees that the school is wrong in its use of tests to evaluate students. “(With an alternate grading system) students would be able to apply themselves more, and try harder instead of studying for big tests. Teachers would be able to help their students more instead of just teaching them what’s going to be on a district test,” Thompson says.

Thompson did not begin his school career hating

like if I failed, I wouldn’t be as good as all the other people who didn’t,” Thompson says about his first big test in elementary school.

Testing not only affects students’ mental states; it changes how they perceive learning and school in general.

“I would’ve been more confident in myself (without testing),” Thompson reflects. “Teachers would be able to teach more for me instead of just what’s on the test… I’d be more positive about school.”

The dream of grading is simple: Teachers would compile samples of a student’s work into a portfolio, allowing colleges to judge students based on actual pieces of work a student has done, as opposed to simply looking at a piece of paper covered in numbers and letters.

Students would no longer be judged against their peers, but instead on their improvement over the year. This would then give colleges a more accurate representation of a student’s skills, as well as allow them to view a student as a person, instead of being merely scores on a piece of paper.

This system has not been implemented, however, both because it’s too time consuming for teachers and because traditional methods of testing and grading have been cemented into the minds of those who came before modern students; changing it now would confuse those who are used to tests determining kids’ futures.

This, however, seems like a small price to pay for the future generation’s success. Many kids suffer from test anxiety, a disorder in which testing causes anxiety attacks, making a student’s grades plummet, no matter how well they know the material, how much they have studied, or their general intelligence. Schools preach “no child left behind”, and yet, anyone unable to test well is left in the dust. Even a good test-taker with something

they want.

“I feel like (hatred of testing) builds up (over time), especially if you continue to not make it into advanced classes, you just feel like you’re gonna continue to fail over and over again,” Thompson said.

Not only students suffer from standardized tests, either. Teachers are forced to teach to the tests instead of actually feeding students information that will benefit them later in life. It takes the enjoyment out of learning, making everything about memorizing facts to get the correct answers on a test. Teachers are also often judged on how well their students do on tests, which, according to FairTest, creates unreliable statistics.

The question is, if standardized testing negatively affects both students and teachers, who does it benefit?

The answer, of course, is parents. Parents who grew up with testing could find anything besides report cards with concrete grades confusing.

Testing has been happening for so long, to parents, it feels like there is no other way to judge a student. This, in itself, is not even a benefit; if parents could accept an alternate grading system, many students and teachers could be saved from all the mental health issues testing creates.

Standardized testing is not the way to run schools. It should not decide our futures, or cause our mental health to plummet. Creating portfolios of samples of a student’s work could make learning enjoyable once again, and allow students to get the results they deserve: getting into better colleges, being placed in advanced classes, and earning necessary credits. If the next generation is going to be running our future, they should be provided with a stable platform to begin building a better future on, beginning with eradicating standardized testing from schools.

By Skylar Laird

28

VOICE

DEC. 11, 2015

The first lasts Reality begins to set in for members of class of 2016

By Olivia Biondo Feature Editor Four years. 676 days. 973,440 minutes. And it’s almost done.

The class of 2016 is set and ready to walk across the stage for graduation, and it is all now becoming real.

Seven classes, seven hours, five days a week.

The time has flown by, and it hasn’t occurred to me until recently that all of the work and effort we have made throughout these past years has all come down to this. Countless homework assignments, tests, quizzes and late nights have all prepared us for this one short walk across a stage. It’s crazy to think about. We’re almost done.

In just a few short months, we will all be on our separate ways.

Four homecomings, two proms, and numerous pep rallies. Becoming juniors brought about the beginning of the end. Becoming a junior brought about prom, looking for colleges, and making sure grades were just perfect enough for us to get into the schools we desperately want. But the elephant in the room has always been graduating.

For some, there is excitement in getting to leave high school behind and go into the future to partake in whatever career you find yourself set on, but for others, there is a fear of having to leave what we have become so used to to go on and start completely over somewhere else.

Over the years we have seen dozens of things occur in the school. Football games, musicals, spirit weeks, and so much more. These events have all helped to bring us together, to make the connection between us and our school so much stronger. The school spirit we all felt when we walked into this building for the first time has continued to spiral into something amazing. For some, attending games and being super involved is the way that they show their spirit. But for others, showing spirit is making sure they do their absolute best in all of their classes, making sure they can move on to big things once they finally walk across that stage.

Senior year has definitely started out as an emotional roller coaster, and it is pretty much set in stone to continue that way. This is the last time we are going to be with some of the greatest people we have met over the past four years, this is the last time we will be able to walk these halls telling underclassmen that they should live up their high school years because they go by too fast, and this is the last time we get to act like kids before we actually have to start doing adult things. Senior year is about getting prepared for college, it’s about making sure we are ready to take on the world. And so what if we aren’t? We have the next years of our lives to try new things and do what we love instead of only following the strict guidelines required to pass high school.

The more you think about it, the quicker the end of high school approaches. Pretty soon we will be preparing for prom, finals, AP tests, and then graduation will be here. We have seven months until we graduate, until all of our hard work pays off and we all go our separate ways. These are the last times where we will all show up to school in the morning together, the last times we will make plans with each other every single weekend, the last times we will sprint to our cars at the end of the day in order to get out before the buses. These are the last times, and then we have to move on.

The end of high school is drawing nearer every day, first semester is just about over. We have one more semester left until we all go our separate ways. One more semester to make sure we have everything in order to take on the next years of our lives. One final semester before we have to say goodbye for a while. One final semester left of high school.

On Saturday, June 4, we will take the walk across the stage that finalizes our race to the end of high school. On June 4, our lives will change. It’s daunting, knowing the date that something so big ends. Taking it one step at a time is the only thing we can do, the final step may be big, but we’re all going to do it together.

Four years. 676 days. 973,440 minutes. And it’s almost done.

VOICE

29 DEC. 11, 2015

INSAMETY

Those with individuality are pressured to be the same as those around them, when individuality will take them further after high school.

by Bri Shatto

Move Editor I wake up, 6:10 am. I get ready, hug my mom, run back upstairs to get my backpack I forget every morning, get into my car and drive the same route to school everyday. I get to school and I sit in my car, being sure to take a deep breath before I get out and walk into the place that thrives on people with the same interests.

I walk past cliques characterized by the same behaviors, the same physical appearance, and a lot of times the same judgemental look toward those who do not exactly fit in.

Everyday we, the ones who are trying harder than ever to find ourselves, are surrounded by this neverending belief that we must fit into one group. That we must accept the ideals and thoughts of a group of people in order to be

important.

And this is not our fault, this is the fault of a society which has driven the idea of conformity into our brains. And in high school, the race and scramble to find a place, to not feel lonely, and to be accepted has left those who want to be individuals in isolation.

We are judged from the way we speak, the way we think, what we do or do not create, and even by what we decide to put on our bodies when we wake up in the morning.

In a place where AP students are expected to stick to their books, artists to their canvases, and athletes to their sports, how are we supposed to thrive or grow as individuals?

More importantly, why do we let people who do not appreciate our differences and unique characteristics determine our self-worth? It is

absolutely essential to remember- whether it be a couple years or a couple months, absolutely none of this, none of the judgemental looks, the snarky comments, the people who make us feel like less than we are, will even matter nor will it even cross our minds.

When we leave this place, we will finally be able to live our lives as the people we want to be without the worry of anyone trying to cut us down or reshape us to fit a certain mold.

There is a world beyond these walls, a world where it is okay, in fact it is absolutely amazing, to break the standards. To be not just smart, or athletic, or creative, but to take any characteristics we want and use them simultaneously. Till then, we count down the days not just to graduation, but to a world that will appreciate us and our need to create our own paths.

30 entertain

DEC. 11, 2015

Five Christmas movies to

SCREAM FOR

By Will Sills

staff reporter It’s about that time again. Christmas. The time of joy and time of not being at school. With break creeping up on us quickly, it’s time to watch some movies. Here are my five favorite Christmas movies to watch during the most wonderful time of the year.

5. “Elf” (2003) The most recently released movie on the list, “Elf” has already become a staple film to watch every Christmas. Director Jon Favreau (“Iron Man”) crafts a hilarious yet sentimental flick for the whole family. Will Ferrell is absolutely hysterical playing the biggest man-child not named Forrest Gump as he searches New York City to find the dad he never knew. Along for the ride are Zooey Deschanel (“New Girl”), James Caan (“The Godfather”), and even Peter Dinklage (“Game of Thrones”), who easily delivers the film’s biggest laugh.

4. “The Nightmare Before Christmas” (1993) So should you watch this on Christmas or Halloween? Because it’s so good, why not both?

Tim Burton’s “The Nightmare Before Christmas” is a beautifully crafted film with great visuals and solid music. I’m not a fan of musicals, however this is one of the few that I thoroughly enjoy. Tim Burton has a wonderful eye for the strange and weird, and here it is perfectly blended into one sick, funny, and moving film that is great for children and even adults. I only saw it for the first time a year ago, but since then, I have seen it probably five times.

That’s how good this movie really is.

3. “Home Alone” (1990) Ahhhh, everyone’s favorite Christmas film that’s part “A Christmas Story” and part “Saw.” Director Chris Columbus (the one who didn’t kill any indians) has made quite a few classics in his time, from the first two Harry Potters to “Adventures in Babysitting.” “Home Alone,” however, will always

be my favorite of his. From the charm of Joe Pesci and Daniel Stern playing “The Wet Bandits” to the beautiful score from John Williams, the movie is just absolutely timeless. This is one of those Christmas classics that just about everyone has seen.

2. “Christmas Vacation” (1989) “Christmas Vacation” is the third film in the franchise and brought in a new director (first timer Jeremiah S. Chechik), a new pair of kids (“The Big Bang Theory’s” Johnny Galecki and “From Dusk Till Dawn’s” Juliette Lewis), and even a new rating (The first and only film in the franchise to receive a PG-13). This is easily one of the most underrated movies of all time. It’s just about the funniest film ever, from Chevy Chase’s crazy antics to Randy Quaid’s hysterical performance as Cousin Eddie.

1. “Die Hard” (1988) And finally number one. Is it “A Christmas Story”? How about “Miracle on 34th Street”? “It’s a Wonderful Life”? Nope. It’s “Die Hard.” Anyone that wants to argue how it isn’t a Christmas movie, well yippee-ki-yay. I mean, what other Christmas movie is about a NYC cop who is hunting down terrorists and just happens to be at the wrong place at the wrong time? The answer is none (other than “Die Hard 2” but that doesn’t count).

Think Bruce Willis can’t act? Go watch “Die Hard” and try and say that again. The man owns the screen along with Alan Rickman who plays terrorist Hans Gruber. Rickman is mainly known for playing Snape in the “Harry Potter” franchise, but I will always remember him best as the German who calls Bruce Willis “cowboy.”

Honorable Mentions: “Batman Returns” (1992) “Gremlins” (1984) “Die Hard 2” (1990) So those are my favorite Christmas movies to watch during the holiday season. Some of them were expected, and some, well, less expected.

Happy holidays everyone and have a good upcoming break!

entertain 31 DEC. 11, 2015

Christmas

DIY

Chocolate Pretzel Bites

Ingredients: • 9 ounce bag of pretzel twists, squares or circles • 12 ounce bag of Hershey’s Kisses • 12 Ounce bag of M&Ms Here’s what you do: 1. Spread the pretzels out on a cookie sheet, and place one Hershey’s Kiss on top of each pretzel.

2.

Place the sheet in the oven at 275 degrees for three minutes – just long enough for the Kisses to get soft.

3.

Remove from the oven, and immediately press a single M&M on each.

4.

Refrigerate until eating to ensure they are deliciously solid!

By Dulci Hedges staff reporter

Interested in giving loved ones gifts this but short on the change to?

The following are quick gifts perfect for people with a sweet tooth.

Reindeer Chow Ingredients: • 9 cups of your favorite kind of Chex Cereal • 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolates • 1/2 cup of creamy peanut butter • 1 teaspoon vanilla • 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar Here’s what you do: 1. Measure the cereal into a large bowl; set aside.

2. In a 1-quart microwavable bowl, microwave the chocolate chips, peanut butter, uncovered on High for 1 minute; stir. Microwave about 30 seconds longer or until the mixture can be stirred smooth. Stir in the vanilla. Pour the mixture over cereal, stirring until evenly coated.

Pour into a 2-gallon resealable food-storage plastic bag.

3. Add powdered sugar. Seal bag; shake until well coated. Spread on waxed paper to cool. Store in an airtight container in refrigerator.

Jared McClellan

Jared McClellan

Peppermint Candy Bowl Ingredients: • 19 Peppermint Starlight Mints • Parchment Paper • Baking Sheet • A small glass bowl Here’s what you do: 1. Pre-heat oven to 300 degrees 2. Place parchment paper on a baking sheet 3. Lay one mint in the center of the baking liner.

Take six more mints and lay them around the center mint (making a flower type of shape). The mints should be touching with

4.

5.

as little a gap space as possible. Take the remaining 12 mints and make another circle around the center circles.Place in the oven.

You MUST watch them cook because every oven cooks differently. When they start to get shiny and just begin to spread out and melt – they are done! They should not be so melted that they are bubbling.

Have your small glass bowl upside down and ready to go because you are going to use this to be the mold.

Take them out and let them sit for about 30 seconds – you want them cool enough to

6.

7.

8.

handle, but not too cool that they are set.

Carefully flip the parchment paper with the mints in place, on top of the upside down glass bowl. Try to place the center mint as close to the center of the glass bowl as possible. Now use your hand (with the oven mitts on) to form the mints around the bowl.

You will have under a minute before the mints start to harden again.

Let the mints sit on the bowl until it sets; remove it from the glass bowl and let cool completely.

Fill with candy and enjoy!

32

ad

DEC. 11, 2015

this holiday season

Buy a yearbook before the end of the semester for $50 and you’ll be entered in a drawing for a free KINDLE FIRE! Bring the form on Page 9 of this paper to Room 139!

Don’t forget the price goes up to $65 second semester.