December full issue

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See more seasonal photo galleries in News and Features.

p. 6 & 18

Red & Black Newspaper 12.15.17 • Volume 87 • Issue 3 Jefferson City High School Jefferson City, MO

The holidays have arrived Downtown windows come to life with dancers, singers and displays to entertain the crowds. p. 8-9

CONTENTS 12.15.17 NEWS 4

#Hey Admin: Ipads and Chromebooks Remembering Isaiah Martin-Boffa

5

Jefferson City sees new and old business

6

JC Annual Christmas Parade Bartlett and West photography contest

4

7

SPOTLIGHT 8-9

Living Windows

IN-DEPTH

14-15

FEATURES 16

How has senior year been going so far?

16

HALO provides shelter for teens

17

Key club gives back to the community

17 18

Staff only rooms are unveiled Art explained by JCHS students

18

Festival of lights brings holiday cheer

19

Featured Faculty: Jaren Whisler

SPORTS 10 11 12

Student athletes scholarships Keeping the balance between life and sports

12

Kicking off wrestling season December sports calendar

12

Featured Athlete: Greta Haarmann

13

Clubs that aren’t considered a sport

2

Giving back to JC

OPINION

20

Editorial: High school stress affects masses

21

Head to Head: Happy Holidays VS Merry Christmas

22

Skateboarding isn’t such a bad thing

22

Christmas music is a holiday must

23

The ACT is too important to colleges

23

Is P.E. necessary for high school students?

12.15.17//CONTENTS

24

A&E Billboard VS JCHS

24 25

Last minute gender neutral Christmas gifts Mistletoe Comic

25

Different ways to celebrate the holidays

25

Hunting season photo contest

26

Reviews: Pokemon USUM, Justice League, Dunkin’ Donuts

27

Which holiday movie is the best?

27

Christmas slime DIY

Do you have story suggestions for the Red & Black?

Email us at RedBlack.JCHS@gmail.com, call us at 573-659-3310, or come stop by room J141.

We’d love to hear your ideas or even publish your work.

We accept freelance writers, photographers, and cartoon artists. Come be a part of your student newspaper.

Howdy partners,

- Gillian Burks

FROM THE EDITOR

Why is the school year not over? It honestly feels like it is taking decades to get through a few months. Now, we’re down to weeks till Christmas break.

Thank goodness.

Anyone else feeling that awkward pressure of whether you should buy gifts for your family or save the little money you have and claim childhood as your defense?

What do parents even want for Christmas? Do parents even like presents?

If you guys have ideas, hit me up and I’ll be eternally grateful.

Also, gift ideas for little brothers and boyfriends would be great.

In fact, why don’t you just buy a few gifts and send them my way.

(Just kinda kidding.)

We discuss stress in this issue’s editorial, and how it affects high school students. I’ve been personally experiencing this troublesome pest for the past week. Normally I can thrive on five to six hours of sleep, but lately I’ve been oversleeping for an extra hour or hour and a half. Even with this extraneous amount of rest, I’m still exhausted by the time I get to school.

I’ve been so stressed and mentally drained lately that I’m literally exhausted all the time.

I’m falling asleep in at least

half of my classes, the other day I couldn’t stay awake while writing an essay. I hypothesize that that piece may have not been my best writing.

It’d be nice if we could all go back to a simpler time when it was required that we took naps in school. Recess would also be nice, just a little note to the admin. Knowing teenagers, everyone would just spend the recess on our phones. Maybe that’s not the best idea.

At the end of this semester, I will finally be done with math in high school. (Other than the AP test at the end of the year.) This thoroughly excites me. I’m good at math, but by no means do I enjoy math. It is frustrating and infuriating and I’m sure I could find more words to describe how horrible I think it is. More power to those who enjoy math. Go to college and make a career out of it.

Speaking of college, I am still stressed about picking out a school and being accepted to the right schools. Applications are way too expensive, and so are out-of-state colleges.

It seems I should wrap up this issue of Gillian ranting for about 400 words. Winter break is just around the corner, there’s some cool photo galleries in the issue, and I’m tired.

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December 15, 2017 Volume 87, Issue 3 Red & Black is a student led newspaper that serves as a public forum for the school and the community. Opinions expressed in the paper are not necessarily those of JCHS nor the faculty, staff or administrators.

Editors: Gillian Burks Sidney Johnson Matt LeCure Ariana Pauley Salem Sanfilippo Solindas Staff Reporters: Yessnia AustinDixon Madison Behrens McCayla Hartman Kayla Hensley Emalee Murdock Tyanna Robinson Adviser: Kathleen M. Turner Jefferson City High School 609 Union Street Jefferson City, MO 65101 (573) 659-3050 redblack.jchs@gmail.com

@redblackjc www.jcredblack.com 12.15.17//NEWS

3

NEWS

#HeyAdmin

Jefferson City High School remembers Isaiah Martin-Boffa

Got any questions for administration? Tweet them to us @jcredblack with the hashtag #HeyAdmin and your question just might get answered! Here’s our question to the principals:

Shanna Schwarzer #HeyAdmin - How are the existing iPads going to be handled?

In the 2018 - 2019 school year the students at JCHS will have Chromebooks rather than iPads to use for their instruction. Those students graduating this school year (December 2017 or May 2018) will be allowed to take ownership of their [iPads] before they graduate. More information will come out on the process for this. Stay tuned.

The decision for the iPads that are distributed to current sophomores and juniors this year have yet to be decided. Those decisions will come from district level administration. #HeyAdmin - What benefit do the Chromebooks have over the iPads?

Jefferson City Public Schools is a Google school. It only makes sense to use Chromebooks rather than an Apple device. Although iPads have benefited learning over the past four school years in the hands of students, we feel that Chromebooks meet the needs of our learning environment more.

Chromebooks are more secure devices to use in an educational setting. Another benefit is that the user experience for Chromebooks is similar to that of a laptop. This will benefit the students in the classrooms while using the device for instruction. #HeyAdmin - Will the Chromebooks be available to next year’s seniors for purchase (as in to take home after graduation)? If not, will there be anything offered in their place?

The plan for future Chromebooks going to graduating seniors has not been discussed.

Financial decisions for the technology is made at the board office level. On our campus administration is charged with the logistics of distribution, collection, and maintenance of what ever device is assigned to students.

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12.15.17//NEWS

Photos submitted by Isaiah’s family.

R

ecently, a JCHS student passed away. His name was Isaiah Martin-Boffa.

He was a senior and passed away Sunday, Nov. 5 at his home. He was the son of Donnie and Terri (Martin) Boffa. Martin had four brothers: Kyle, Daniel, Michael, DaShawn. He also had a sister named Alyssia. He was loved by many people and he left the community and school with aching hearts.

Martin loved the outdoors.

His favorite activities he loved to do were fishing and mushroom hunting. He also loved doing projects with his father, like working on projects around the house.

His goal was to join the Navy, and he took Mr. Ledgerwood’s Military Leadership class.

Martin wanted to follow in his dad’s and his older brothers’ shoes by joining the military.

Isaiah Martin’s neighbor Emily Hunt, a sophomore at JCHS, had kind words to say about Martin.

“He was such a nice guy.

When we were all little, we used to play around the neighborhood

Tyanna Robinson

with all the kids. We did anything from ride bikes to hide and seek, and even have dinner together afterwards,” Hunt said.

“As we got older we didn’t hang out as much. We would wave at each other and say hi but that’s about it, and it’s sad to see him go.”

DaShawn Thorpe is a senior at JCHS as well as one of Martin’s brothers and had a good relationship with him.

“He wanted to join the Navy like his brother, Michael, he really looked up to him,” Thorpe said. “He loved his family, he cared about his family more than friends.”

Terri (Martin) Boffa, the mother of Isaiah Martin, gave us more detail about Martin.

“He loved to eat, he was a loving and caring person,” Boffa said. “He always thanked all the service men for duty.”

As the year is coming to an end, the memory of Isaiah Martin-Boffa will be carried with his family and friends. He was loved by so many peers and he will never be forgotten.

Jefferson City sees businesses, new and old

W

ith the year coming to an end, businesses are getting prepared for what is to come for the new year. There have been many franchises that have come to Jefferson City, as well as a couple of stores and restaurants that have left.

One of the many stores that have left us is Bookworld, although it was just here for a short time, and the entire corporation shut down. Barnes & Noble is another big bookstore that has closed in Jefferson City and Homegoods had moved into its old location.

The Missouri Blvd Burger King recently closed and Jefferson City gained back two thriving businesses, Dunkin’ Donuts and Baskin-Robbins.

Although we don’t know what to expect for the year to come, some businesses spoke on how they are doing with the year ending. Robert Rusteneyer, an employee of Dunham’s Sports, has been nothing but busy since the holidays started.

“We have been swamped since Thanksgiving, we are one of the top stores in the company.” You would think since Dunham’s opened that Hibbett Sports, another sports shop in Jefferson City, would be losing business, but they report that they’re doing better than ever. Manager Ty Austin of Hibbett Sports had nothing

but good news for their store.

Austin stated, “Customer service and product are key to our success.

Companies also must stay innovative to keep up with the times. We have started a new locate program that allows customers to order anything Hibbetts offers nationwide directly from our store.”

With the bookstores closing, you can even see that the way people purchase books has changed. Nowadays people purchase most of the things that they want online instead of going into the actual store. Employee Shelley Chruma of the Dillard’s beauty department has seen a good number of repetitive customers.

McCayla Hartman

“We gear towards a difference type of clientele, more upscale, we are also very ‘service-oriented’,”stated Shelley Chruma. Dillard’s beauty department caters towards an older demographic, while Sephora gears towards a younger demographic. The addition of competing stores is not necessarily a hindrance to the current businesses.

The economic report from the Jefferson City Chamber of Commerce reports a lot of growth and economic development. Despite the multiple changes, Jeff City has shown a great deal of growth over the last year.

Businesses are continuing to thrive and many more will join in the prosperity.

The graph to the left demonstrates another factor that has potentially been affected by the increase in new stores and franchises: the unemployment rate.

www.jcredblack.com 12.15.17//NEWS

5

Jefferson City Annual Christmas Parade The Jefferson City Jaycee's annual Christmas parade brings the community together to celebrate the holidays as well as our local community groups.

Gillian Burks

The crowd gathered early to secure the prime viewing locations.

A holiday truck proceeded the St. Peter School cheerleaders.

Family favorites surprised and excited the crowd.

6

A police escort kicks off the start of the 2017 parade downtown.

Children lined the streets with candy bags.

The Jay band played in the holiday season.

Many schools showed their talent by marching or preforming throughout the parade.

12.15.17//NEWS

Furry friends came as well to celebrate the festivities.

Bartlett and West photography contest Sidney Johnson

Daisy Ortiz admired her and Sidney Johnson's photos before the winners were announced.

T

he Bartlett and West Civil Engineering Company has, for the first time, partnered up with Jefferson City High School in their annual photography contest. Bartlett and West has held the photography contest in Lawrence, Kansas for the past couple of years, and decided they wanted to move the contest to Jefferson City.

Students who were enrolled in Brent Whelan’s Digital Photography class during first term of the 20172018 school year had the opportunity to submit photos into the contest. The students were tasked with utilizing photo compositions they have learned throughout the course. Photographers either took photos of things that interested them or of historical landmarks. The students in this class were granted the use of high-end equipment to take the photos.

There were around 42 pictures submitted into the contest. Staff members and other faculty voted on the photos and narrowed it down to the top ten photos.

Maria Skiles is an administrator at the Bartlett and West Civil Engineering Company, and was in

charge of organizing the contest. After holding the contest in Kansas for several years, Skiles, as well as others, had their reasons for being excited that the contest was finally being held in their own office building.

“We wanted a creative way to decorate our office since the walls are pretty bare," Skiles said. “One of our own employee owners came up with the idea to ask the high school photography classes to help out.”

The students whose photos were selected were invited to a reception hosted at the Bartlett and West building. The company went through one more voting and selected six of the students’ photos naming the the winners with a cash prize of 50 dollars per photo selected. Students were not informed whether their photo(s) had been selected or not prior to the event.

On Thursday, November 30th, the Bartlett and West Company decorated their office with a food table and stands with photos showcased on them. All nominees were honored even if they did not win that night. People began gathering around in the office around five o’clock admiring their photos as well as others. After given time to

Jaxon Noble and Leslie McKinley's photos were displayed before the ceremony. socialize and appreciate the artworks, people were called to gather around the food table where the winners were announced.

There were six photos selected and five winners. Jaxon Noble had two of his photos selected, and was granted with twice the reward. Leslie McKinley had one of her photos selected and another one of her photos was personally purchased by one of the staff members at the company. Ashley Dias, Daisy Ortiz and Isabella Little were also announced as winners.

Noble was very surprised with his winnings since he had never been very interested in photography.

“I tried my best to take the photos, the 50 dollar cash prize really motivated me,” Noble said.

“When my photos got selected I knew it was a big deal, I was glad I experienced something new.”

This was a new experience for both the Jefferson City Bartlett and West Civil Engineering Company and the nominated students. Both parties were very pleased with the experience.

The Bartlett and West Company hopes to continue working with the JCHS community for years to come.

www.jcredblack.com 12.15.17//NEWS

7

Holiday spirit brings the town

[Photo by Gillian Burks]

Gifts, such as these holiday-themed balloon creations, are handed out to kids and adults alike.

[Photo by Ariana Pauley]

Crowds line up down the street for a chance to see the decorated governor’s mansion.

[Photo by Ariana Pauley]

Children are entertained by the multitude of dazzling windows, entertainers, and snacks.

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12.15.17//SPOTLIGHT

[Photo by Gillian Burks]

The News Tribune’s candy cane house is a reoccurring piece for children and their families.

[Photo by Gillian Burks]

Businesses hired performers to liven their store fronts and draw customers in from the streets.

to light with living windows

[Photo by Ariana Pauley]

Lights wrap around every possible surface and create a warm glow that permeates through all.

[Photo by Ariana Pauley]

Beloved characters, including the Grinch, Santa, and Buddy the Elf, weave through the crowds.

[Photo by Gillian Burks]

Groups from all around come to set up displays and inform visitors as they stop by.

[Photo by Gillian Burks]

These dancers advertise the upcoming nutcracker performance by posing in their stage costumes.

[Photo by Gillian Burks]

Ornate pieces sit outside of restaurants and stores to impress passersby.

www.jcredblack.com 12.15.17//SPOTLIGHT

9

Student athletes scholarship roll call Gillian Burks

[Photo sumbmitted by Erica Dunn]

Erica Dunn signing to play tennis at Missouri Western State University.

H

igh school is the last chance of surviving our childhood years and the first step into our possibility-filled adult life. A struggling heap of woes and worries about whether we should embark into the job force or continue onto college sits on our shoulders.

Some among us have already carved the next few steps in their educational paths. These talented student-athletes have been offered scholarships based on their dedication and skill in the sports that they have been playing for years.

As college tuitions rise each year, scholarships can act as a deciding factor for a student looking for an affordable education. Unfortunately, it is a cold truth that many deserving students will be unable to attend the college of their choice because it is simply too expensive. Those who go despite the cost will then have years of debt placed upon their new adult life.

An athletic scholarship doesn’t mean that the student must follow the sport into the pros, it usually only specifies that they will play for the school while

they are attending. There is a negative for their abilities. As they continue stereotype that college students who to thrive in college, the student body are able to attend due to their scholarcan proudly wave them off and wait in ships are not as academically focused. excitement for the next year’s students Senior Kayelee Payton shows dedicated to maintain the same standard. interest in both her athletics and academics.

[Photo sumbmitted by Kayelee Payton] “Representing my new school is a major deal to me,” Payton said, “Not only only being a well-known student academically, but also athletically.”

Another senior, Erica Dunn, has also been offered a scholarship and has signed with Missouri Western State University. Scholarships aren’t only advantageous financially, but they also can be the beginning of a strong network of students and advisors with a similar interest.

“The scholarships have definitely taken some financial stress away, but mostly they’ve given me a new community of girls and coaches for the future,” Dunn said.

These girls and many other talented athletes at Jefferson City High School are being financially acknowledged Kayelee is presented with cake and

a bouquet of flowers after her signing.

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12.15.17//SPORTS

Keeping a balance between real life and sports Yessnia Austin-Dixon

F

inding a balance between a social life and academic life can be challenging enough for some students, being involved in an extracurricular activity can add even more stress for a student. Students who are involved in a sport are forced to divide their priorities in order to function in sports and academics, as well as a social life.

Caitlin Anderson is a student athlete at Jefferson City High School.

Anderson is involved in basketball and track, and she agrees that balancing sports and school work is difficult.

“We literally don’t have the time between practices for each subject,” Anderson said. “So, you have to pick one subject or the other.”

Student athletes can find themselves falling behind in school with the lack of free time. Finding the right way to balance your schedule is something not only student athletes struggle with, but many people around the nation struggle with as well.

Annabelle Maassen is an outside hitter for the JCHS Volleyball team. Maassen struggles with balancing the social aspect of her schedule. Maassen views volleyball practices and games as a social time, but struggles with being social and serious sometimes.

“I view volleyball as a totally other social life,” said Maassen. “The weekends are usually a time where I catch up in my social life and family life.”

Not only can it be difficult finding time for sports and schoolwork, but some students have a hard time balancing homelifes into their busy schedules as well. Returning home after a long day of school and practice, students can feel drained, and they may not have the energy to visit with their families after finishing homework. Rebecca Johanns, plays basketball for JCHS and lives with this very problem.

“I don’t do anything else, but play basketball and go to school,” said Johanns. “It is difficult because I don’t get to see family as much because I’m at practice and not at home.”

Time management can be crucial when taking on a busy schedule.

Chloe Helming plays basketball at JCHS and finds time to work on academics whenever she has a free moment.

“I try my best to do my homework when I need to get it done,” Helming said. “On the bus ride to games or on the way home from games I do my homework.”

Finding a balance between a busy schedule can be trial an error.

There is not an exact answer or solution. Students have to find a system that works for them. However, it does not matter what student it is, student athletes usally have to go the “extra mile” to maintain a balance.

www.jcredblack.com 12.15.17//SPORTS

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What’s the word, JCHS? Tyanna Robinson

110 students of Jefferson City High School were asked which winter sport they liked better: basketball or wrestling.

65%

35% Wrestling

Basketball

December Sports Calendar Dec. 1

- Girls Varsity Basketball Boys Varsity Basketball

Dec. 2

-JV wrestling

Dec. 8

-Varsity Wrestling -Girls Varsity Basketball

Dec. 19

- Boys JV Basketball -Boys Varsity Basketball -Varsity Wrestling -JV Wrestling

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Dec. 4

Dec. 5

- Varsity Cross Country -Girls JV Basketball

- Boys Varsity Basketball -Varsity Wrestling -Boys JV Basketball

Dec. 9

Dec. 13

-Varsity Wrestling - Junior Varsity Wrestling -Girls Varsity Basketball

Dec. 28

- Boys Varsity Basketball -Girls Varsity Basketball

12.15.17//SPORTS

-Boys JV Basketball -Boys Varsity Basketball

Dec. 29

-Boys Varsity Basketball -Girls Varsity Basketball -Varsity Wrestling

Dec. 6

- Girls Varsity Basketball

Dec. 16

-Boys Varsity Basketball -Girls Varsity Basketball JV Wrestling

Dec. 30

-Boys Varsity Basketball -Girls Varsity Basketball

Featured Clubs that aren’t considered a sport Athlete T Tyanna Robinson

Greta Haarmann

he word “sport” has been applied to many activities ever since the word was created. There has been a lot of arguing back and forth if some of the clubs at Jefferson City High School are considered a sport. For example, some people think that marching band should not be considered a sport. Others argue that marching band is indeed a sport, because practices are held daily and the band wears uniforms.

So,what makes something a sport?

The meaning of sport has changed a lot over time. The dictionary definition of sport is “an activity involving physical effort and skill in which an individual or team competes against another or others for entertainment.” A sport requires endurance, which is the ability or skill to perform or action for an extended amount of time. A sport requires competition to find a winner.

If there is no competition, there is no sport. Lastly, a sport requires power, which is the ability to apply strength in the shortest time. These are the

main requirements for what makes an activity a sport.

Timothy Starke is a sophomore in JCHS and is a member of the JCHS Marching Band. Starke is extremely passionate about this topic.

“So many people may say that band isn’t a sport, I disagree. I’ve been in band for seven years. Most people don’t see the effort we put in. We practice during off season. We have off season training called “open gyms” where we work on technique, “Starke said, “I personally have played football and I have wrestled. I feel as if band is definitely a sport, but not as intense.”

A sport is a physical activity that involves skill, strength, and endurance.

Almost any club or activity may be considered a sport, if it meets the requirements. Ask yourself, does it require physical ability, does it require physical skill, does the activity or club compete. If an activity has any of these characteristics, then more than likely it is a sport.

Sport: basketball Position: shooting guard Years played: 12 years Other Activities/Hobbies: Soccer First choice in college: Central Missouri Major: nutrition Record for 2016: 17-4 Favorite player: Micah Linthacum Favorite Quote: “You never know who is watching.”

www.jcredblack.com 12.15.17//SPORTS

13

Giving Back McCayla Hartman

T

he holidays are a time of the year when you might have to see family more than you’d like.

For others, they either don’t have any family or are too sick to spend the holiday season with theirs. Places like the Salvation Army have helped families out for many years. On their website, they even mentioned that last year they helped approximately 30 million people. Salvation Army has many different programs and there are a lot of different ways to help out. For example, by donating your old clothes, simply just volunteering some of your time to go help people out or bringing them canned food.

St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital is also a really big organization that tries and helps

families out year round. They don’t charge anything for the treatment, travel, housing or food that they provide to the families. They just want them to worry about helping their child stay alive. Places like Home Goods help St. Jude’s raise money by putting a link on their website to donate to the hospital. Donations help the hospital a lot because it makes them be able to give the parents some relief on the billing, and the money also helps with new research. According to St. Jude’s website, since they opened in 1962, the hospital has raised their survival rate from 20% to 80% and they are still going and hope to reach 100%. Goodwill is also a good local place you can go to donate any clothing or toys. Although Goodwill might not be your first choice

Student Council adopts a family and poses with the items they purchased. Photo sbmitted by StuCo.

w 14

12.15.17//IN-DEPTH

of donating, they try and help local families find jobs. They have stated, regardless of a potential employee’s past, that training and resources are made available to anyone seeking a position in their company.

If you’re looking for another way to give back to the community, giving to the Jefferson City Samaritan Center would be a great way. The Samaritan Center has many ways that someone can give back, such as donating money, donating food or used clothes, or simply just donating your time. There are many different ways someone can give back during the holidays in Jefferson City and there are many more possible ways than what was mentioned.

The Military Leadership class participated in adopting a family through the Samaritan Center. They chose two adult individuals because often those are the last to be adopted.

Ways JCHS gives back The Library Student Board is collecting new or gently used mittens, gloves, hats, and scarves for Bev East Memorial Library Mitten Tree. The collected items will benefit local elementary schools and the Samaritan Center. They will accept donation through Monday, Dec. 18.

Civil Leadership collected school supplies for students who are in need. The put donation boxes in FAST classes to encourage students and staff to give back to those who are in need.

The school hosted a Movies for Mittens night on Dec. 14. All of the proceeds for those who paid to view “The Polar Express” went to help the Salvation Army with children’s needs.

* NCC, STUCO and Military Leadership Class honored verterans in 2017. * JCPS schools and groups collected over $6,500 to aid Central Missouri Honor Flight.

Students helped host a dodgeball tournament.

Proceeds from the event benefited kids with Type I Diabetes in Jefferson City Public Schools.

Ways you can give back • Volunteer at the Samaritan Center • Volunteer at the Salvation Army food kitchen.

• Donate your gently-used clothing.

• Adopt a family at holidays.

• Volunteer at a local nursing home.

• Check VolunteerMatch for local opportunities.

Bev East Memorial Mitten Tree in the JCHS library.

www.jcredblack.com 12.15.17//IN-DEPTH

15

FEATURES

Seniors: How has your last year been so far?

“Like getting my ankle constantly chopped by a razor scooter, but I also know it’s almost over so kinda decent.”

Matt LeCure

“STRESSFUL.”

“LAME.”

-Mitchell Huston

-Marcus Key

-Madison Losi

“Stressful, tiring, and also great!”

Surprisingly good!

-Kayelee Payton

-Cameron Christensen

HALO gives homeless teens refuge in art T Sidney Johnson

he nationwide HALO non-profit organization gives to children in need. In particular, HALO works with homeless children by providing them with not only a home, but a loving support system as well. Most of the kids taken in by HALO have been abused, orphaned, or abandoned by their parents. HALO is a nationwide organization and within the unique locations the the different branches have their own unique attributes.

The Jefferson City branch works with only homeless girls ages 16 to 21. The organization is still focused on giving young women a family-like encouragement, but has an artistic twist on things.

Sydney Adams is one of the Transitional Living Program interns at the Jefferson City branch of HALO. The organization not only works with

16

children care, but has also founded a way to give back to the community as well.

“We also provide art programs in the community,” Adams said. “The programs kind of vary; we do a few of them in school, one at Jefferson City High School and one at Jefferson City Academic Center. We also do artwork with children at RACS [Refugee Advice & Casework Service] and recently started a program at the library.”

While the HALO organization gives back to the community with art, their biggest priority is to keep young women off the streets. The housing program in Jefferson City is called The Transitional Living Program and allows girls that are parenting or pregnant a home. HALO provides these girls with assistance that allows them to go to school and work, as well as

12.15.17//FEATURES

learn the skills they need to live happy and successful lives.

Lauren Bateman and Jessica Hardwick are the two house mom’s that live on site. Their jobs are to watch over the girls and care for them in a handson way.

The HALO family is an outstanding addition to the Jefferson City Community and helps in more ways than residents can imagine. The volunteers and interns are very passionate about their duty to society.

“HALO is extremely big on family and maintains the belief that every child in this world should have the support of the family,” said Adams.

Like intern Adams, the rest of the HALO organization will continue to fight and work hard to keep on proving what they stand for.

JCHS Key Club gives back to the community K ey Club is a group of students that pull together service hours not only for themselves, but for other students in the school as well.

Put together about five years ago and advised by Christopher Johnson and Shane Williams, Key Club has done many services, some for the school and some for Jefferson City as a whole.

Key Club helps with things such as cleaning the stadiums after home games and tournaments, organizing food pantries for churches and arranging the Paint the People 5k.

Ryan Miller and Caitlyn Miller have both been in Key Club for two years, and are now Co-Presidents of the club.

“My favorite project that we do is

our Paint the People 5k,” R. Miller said.

The Paint the People 5k is on April 15, at 9:00 AM. Key Club works on setting up this event for the majority of the second semester, and all of the proceeds go to United Way. The members of the Key Club F.A.S.T. are responsible for the organization of the 5k, including finding sponsors, contacting Parks and Recreation to reserve Binder Park, talking to the DJ, getting the word out on social media, designing t-shirts, designing and printing banners and posters and much more.

This year, Key Club has come up with a texting service that sends you info on service opportunities that come

Madison Behrens

to Key Club’s attention. If you would like to join the texting service, text @ servicejc to 81010.

Another new project Key Club has come up with it a reading/mentorship program in partnership with Thorpe Gordon. Students who sign up will walk over to Thorpe Gordon during F.A.S.T. on Tuesdays and/or Fridays and read to elementary schoolers. A+ hours and NHS hours can be filled by joining.

Joining Key Club and even just volunteering with Key Club is a great way to boost your resume and your college applications. For more information on Key Club, contact Christopher Johnson, Shane Williams, Caitlyn Miller, or Ryan Miller.

Staff only rooms: What’s behind the closed doors We see the signs everywhere that read ‘STAFF ONLY.’ It’s only natural to wonder what lies behind those signs. The mystery behind staff only rooms has been uncovered, but, unfortunately, they are not as exciting as we had previously hoped.

Yessnia Austin-Dixon

Nichols 2nd floor JC lunch room

J107A

J205

J313

Nichols 1st floor

www.jcredblack.com 12.15.17//FEATURES

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Art explained by Jefferson City High School Kayla Hensley

A

rt is expression through different mediums such as painting, clay, pencil on paper, crayons, watercolor, ect. Everyone has their own ways of creating art, but what does it mean to people who never do it? This is art explained by non artists, the people who claim stick figures are their only talent, and the ones who can’t tell the difference between chartreuse and lime green.

Asking a few staff members and students was the first part on the quest for artistic knowledge from those who don’t regularly create art. Beginning with quite possibly the least artistic of them all: the math teachers. Spencer Epple, a Jefferson City High School math teacher said, “Art is in the eye

of the beholder. If you’re into dancing that’s art, it’s not just coloring and stuff.”

Junior Michael Arnold expressed his feelings on art reluctantly, but effectively got his point across.

“Dude...art is beautiful… and heavenly things,” Arnold said. “Yeah nature is art, like the backs of turtle shells. That’s art.”

A lovely view on art surely, while Junior Manny Maire’s response was short and sweet.

“Art is self expression, and it’s satisfying,” Maire said.

While each person had their own idea of art, referring to someone who creates art everyday, like sophomore Bri Nelson, was an important factor to

getting some information.

“Art is a perception of the human conscience. If someone views something as art, and believes that it is art to them, it is. If someone creates something with the intention of being art, to that person it is,” Nelson said. “No single person can declare if something is art or not because someone else could have a different view.”

Each view on what art is has some amazing examples that everyone can follow. Art is whatever you want it to be; whatever you can dream up can be art. Creation is conscience, and seeing the art in everyday things is a key part of being human. Whatever art is to you, don’t stop creating!

The Festival of Lights brings holiday cheer

T

he Homemaker Health Care Community is currently putting on a drive-through holiday light display in Jefferson City. Located at Binder Park, this family-friendly holiday experience features several of your favorite characters, including Santa and his reindeer.

The cost of $20 per car goes to non-profits in an effort to help out the community during the holiday season. The Festival of Lights is running from Dec. 2 through Dec. 31, so you still have plenty of time to join in on the fun!

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12.15.17//FEATURES

Gillian Burks Ariana Pauley

Featured Staff Member: Jaren Whisler We get an inside look on the life of a Jefferson City High School science teacher, Jaren Whisler.

Fun Fact:

Emalee Murdock

J

aren Whisler has been teaching for eight years. This school year is his very first year here as a Jay. Before teaching at Jefferson City High School, he taught at a rural school off of I-70 called Concordia High School.

Whistler graduated from Southwest Baptist University in Bolivar, Missouri.

He began college as a pre-med student to become a eye doctor, but his path changed once he realized he loved science and could share it with students as they pursue graduation and future careers.

“Every student has their own story and I am motivated to help them reach their potential goals and dreams,” Whisler said. “I also had some great teachers in high school who pushed me and motivated me and pushed me to pursue education and I eventually listened.”

Whisler currently teaches biology in room 216 on the 2nd floor of JCHS. Some of his favorite courses that he has taught in the past are zoology and genetics.

“My favorite thing about teaching is watching students learn…I enjoy using technology in the classroom and finding new ways of infusing it into lessons,” Whisler said.

Nicole Whisler and Jaren Whisler have been married for seven years.

They met in college and moved to Jefferson City this past summer. They have a daughter now approaching two years old. Her parents say she is incredible and developing her extensive vocabulary that she uses in every store they take her to. The sleepless nights are worth it for the Whislers! They also have a dog named Roman who is a four year-old German Shepherd who is still a puppy at heart and eats everything in sight.

“I am definitely an introvert in an extrovert’s occupation. Most days you will find me outdoors enjoying nature,” Whisler said. “I play the guitar, banjo, mandolin, and saxophone.”

Do you have a staff member you think more people should know about? Contact us with your suggestion and we may do a bio on them!

www.jcredblack.com 12.15.17//FEATURES

19

Opinion

The Red and Black Editorial: the stress of high school

S

tress is a big part of my personality. I don’t seem that way on the outside, but I’m a complicated mess internally. Stress has a lot to do with that. It’s like a battle between my logical thinking and my anxiety. Logic may be the hero, but anxiety is just too strong. School doesn’t help much, honestly.

Whether it’s a difficult assignment, an intimidating teacher, or a screw-up in front of a crush, I get stressed out easily. The fact that college is just around the corner is also intense. It’s hard to be optimistic about the future when you know how hard of a battle it will be.

Jefferson City High School is a nice place that motivates you for the future, but it doesn’t do it right at times. As a freshman, I came across a poster depicting an old man working at a fast food restaurant. It was to show what happens if you don’t graduate. Without a proper education, one may spend their life flipping burgers. This absolutely scared the living heck out of me. Even today, not being a successful member of society is one of my greatest fears. Sure, the poster was motivating, but not in the right way. Schools should display the opportunities that come with graduation, instead of what will happen if you don’t graduate.

According to a national survey from USA Today, 27% of teens report that they experience an extreme level of stress during the school year. This compares to only 13% in the summer while school is out of session.

While extreme stress is certainly alarming, any level of stress can affect a person’s well being. High school students are still developing, mentally

and physically, and having a higher stress level than ideal will only work to hinder them in their efforts to advance.

We all know someone that seems to do it all, and perhaps they even seem fine while doing it, but stress can manifest in many different ways.

A student who gets A’s on all of their tests may be struggling to sleep between studying and worrying. If this stress builds, it’s only logical to assume that eventually either the grades will

someone feels powerless, so helping them have the ability to do their work well will be a motivating factor for their overall well being.

I must say that the stress I feel now is not as big as the stress I had to endure two years ago. If you forgot, or if you weren’t there, the 2015-2016 school year had a different schedule.

Summing it up, you had ten classes to worry about instead of the usual five.

It’s not an exaggeration to say that this screwed me up. There was a ton of homework, and it wasn’t fun.

When you are stressed out, you’ll have some trouble with keeping up in your classes.

It’s a big problem. More work means more stress, more stress means low grades, and low grades mean more stress. Even so, if you have trouble with stress, talk to a parental figure or a teacher. If that teacher blows you off, then tell the principal. That is no way for a teacher to act.

Parents and teachers have the ability to help their students during the stressful school year. From offering to assist with homework to staying after to explain a concept, guardians and educators can play vital roles in a teen’s stress management.

[Graphic by: Matt LeCure] Through regular conversation a parent or teacher may be give, or the student will. Neither of able to empathize with a student more these scenarios are ideal, so what can readily than they would if they simply be done? assumed it was “teenage drama.”

The first step that a school could In the end, stress is a serious take is ensuring an open door policy problem. It makes your life miserable, with counselors so that teens who need and that’s not good for your academic guidance can easily receive it. Another participation. However, you should good step would be to make tutoring know that people are here for you. available for struggling students.

While school can be a stress-causer, it Stress is only heightened when will all be over with soon.

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Happy Holidays

Head to Head

Salem Sanfilippo Solindas

T

What should you say?

here is nothing I hate more than having kaftans, latkes, and yule logs thrown in my face during the holiday season. I just can’t stand it when I see a Festivus pole in my neighbor’s yard. Oh, and those Hanukkah songs? Awful.

Okay, obviously, I don’t see any of that. Despite being raised in a Jewish-Pagan household and growing up with both Hanukkah and Yule, I spend every December listening to the same 12 songs and being told ‘Merry Christmas’ until my ears feel like they’re about to fall off.

As much as I’d love to see a menorah every once in awhile, I know that living in a mostly Christian community means that’s a lot to ask. That being said, I’m happy to settle with the occasional “Happy Holidays” thrown my way.

While it’s not ideal, it sure beats my chosen holidays being swept under the rug.

Yes, I get the counterargument. In a culture as massive as America, majority always rules. It’s why the electoral college elects our presidents and why Sega went bankrupt.

Kwanzaa, Hanukkah, Yule, and others will never dominate our Christmasruled society, that’s just a fact. But just because these holidays represent minorities doesn’t mean they deserve less attention. Yes, majority rules, but minority matters. We still have the Green Party and the 2017 saw two new Sonic games.

I think the biggest reason people are so unwilling to change is that it feels like a betrayal of their childhoods.

Christmas is a huge part of America’s shared culture. It feels like an attack on happy memories, family time, and warmth.

But it’s important to remember that our country is the great melting pot of culture, and recognizing smaller holidays is far from a declaration of war.

The point is, it’s not that hard to acknowledge the little guy every so often. Instead of seeing holiday equality as a threat to Christmas, see it as an invitation to celebrate everyone in this big, diverse, awesome country. The holidays are about coming together to appreciate family and friendship, and there’s nothing that reflects these ideals more than loving thy neighbor.

Merry Christmas

Gillian Burks

I

work at a small grocery store just two minutes away from Jefferson City High School. The time has come when Christmas jingles are on a nonstop repeat overhead. Don’t get me wrong, I can enjoy “Silent Night” like the best of them, but it becomes tiring to hear it twelve times in one shift. A problem I face every time I’m stuck at a cash register is whether I should send a customer off with a “Happy Holidays” or a “Merry Christmas.”

For the majority of last year, I reminded myself to always say “Happy Holidays” for the fear of offending someone who didn’t celebrate Christmas. It has reached this point in the year again, and I’ve decided that I will no longer stifle my own belief for the sake of others.

I understand that in a society where the majority of the population celebrates Christmas, it can feel silencing to never see your own beliefs taking front stage. It can be infuriating that someone else’s beliefs are coming before yours.

When you try to argue that the way to make yourself feel better is by demanding our silence as well, that is when I have a problem. If you feel that you are not being represented equally, represent yourself.

Decorate everything you can in every way you want.

Call in to radio stations and request songs you want.

Send people off with your blessings, you don’t have to say “Merry Christmas.” I will respect your holiday in whatever form you give it, respect mine as well.

Why is it such an issue for me to tell someone “Merry Christmas” and for them to respond “Happy Hanukkah?”

We’ve both wished good times to the other in our belief and at no point have we disrespected the other’s belief.

We are all individuals. Respect is the only thing that needs to be demanded. I see and respect that our beliefs don’t match. I will maintain my beliefs and never insult yours. In fact, I will gladly put effort into understanding your beliefs and taking my time to support you if someone is attacking your beliefs. However, the answer is not to attack my beliefs as well. I will say “Merry Christmas” and you can say whatever you want.

www.jcredblack.com 12.15.17//OPINION

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Skateboarding: not the evil it’s made out to be.

Kayla Hensley

S

ince its beginning in the early 1950’s, skateboarding has been looked down upon by older generations, not including the one who created it. This brought on an era of ‘no skateboarding’ signs and the most commonly used phrase known to skateboarders: ‘I’ll call the cops’.

This prejudice is even faced at school, where anyone with a board is told to put it in the office or to not bring it at all. Students are faced with the possibility of facing a hefty fine or suspension just for skating on campus.

Imagine if your only means of transportation was a board. No bike, car, bus, or even a scooter. You could walk of course, but you choose to skate to school everyday, and by the time you get there your board is confiscated and you’re facing in school suspension.

This is because skating on campus is frowned upon by staff. Why? For

fear of damaging property. This is the main reason for staff disapproval of skateboarding. Students believe faculty should take on a different perspective on the sport.

Because of biased views on skateboarders, many are looked down upon for certain aspects of the sport resulting in the miscommunication between staff and student. When a student is seen on a board on campus a list of complications can run through one’s head, especially if one is a teacher or principal. Yet these complications are no more than silly faults that can be controlled by the person on the skateboard. Who would hit the six stair near the trailers anyways? If you can only cruise on a board, like most students, what damage could be caused?

According to junior Hope Lewis, “I think we should be able to skate

on campus. Bikes are allowed on campus. Skating is something that is stereotyped and discriminated against since it is not allowed. However, it is dangerous but that doesn’t matter because at this point skaters know whether or not to skate if there is a moving car or other dangers. We live in a generation where skating whenever and wherever should be acceptable.”

Another issue is the credibility of our own campus. JCHS was established in 1964, leaving many of our handrails and stairs cracked and crooked. Staff members fear the dismemberment of our campus’ rails, ledges, and stairs, but what more could a student do to break them?

Boardslides, 50’s, and nose blunts aren’t going to cause anymore damage than there already is.

all holiday melodies, are meant to put people in a celebratory mood and remind them of the values represented by these times.

That being said, it is obvious that Christmas music seems to outshine other holidays like Thanksgiving. It is reasonable to say that Christmas music should be reserved until after Thanksgiving has had its time, but the reality is that it’s almost impossible due to the holiday shopping season.

The music you hear during commercials and while you walk through your local mall is there to get you into the buying spirit as much as the holiday spirit. This unavoidable tradition has to begin early seeing as many retailers open their doors with holiday deals on Thanksgiving day. Without the subliminal messaging leading up to the big payoff, the Black Friday turnout may suffer. Without saying whether or not that entire aspect of the retail holiday season is morally sound, it must

be admitted that it makes good sense to achieve profit quotas.

On an individual level, some may find the Christmas music early-birds annoying, but most of the time they’re listening privately in their own homes or cars and not forcing the music on anyone else. No one should be shamed for their love of Christmas music, regardless of how early they begin listening to it. If it doesn’t affect you, then allow others to be happy.

As far as businesses are concerned, while it may be disorienting to walk into a store and hear “Jingle Bells” the day after Halloween, there are reasons that at least explain, if not justify, the actions.

The Christmas music debate will go on indefinitely, but I can say for certain that there are worse things that we could be listening to for two months than the catchy holiday tunes.

Christmas music: a holiday must T Ariana Pauley

his is the time of year where many people of different backgrounds and tastes come together to celebrate various events and holidays. Among this diverse group, there are two factions that oppose each other fiercely on one particular topic: Christmas music. How early is too early?

There are two extremes to this argument, as is the case with almost any debate. On one side stands the Christmas music lovers who are sitting next to their fully-decorated Christmas trees on Halloween just waiting for midnight to strike so they can begin caroling. On the other side stands the “Christmas Scrooges” who believe Christmas music should be reserved for Christmas Day and left at that.

What both sides of the argument need to realize is that these extremes make up a small fraction of each group and that there truly is room for compromise. Christmas music, like

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12.15.17//OPINION

The ACT makes too much of an impact Sidney Johnson

A

fter attending school for awhile you get into a routine. You go to school, do homework, and eventually have a test over the topics you learn about. Taking tests is now a common expectation. You’ve aced some tests and you’ve bombed some, no big deal. Imagine taking a test that may determine the rest of your life.

For those of you who don’t know or are too young for this test to be relevant to you, the ACT, or American College Test is a nationwide standardized test scored on a scale from 0 to 36. There are four sections, english, math, reading, and science, and you are tasked to finish each section with limited amount of time. The ACT takes about four hours to complete and you are permitted to take it up to 12 times.

Each college has a different minimum for an ACT score, which is usually compared to your GPA. The average ACT score at Jefferson City High School is 21.4. This average score barely qualifies for acceptance into most universities in Missouri.

The ACT should not have such an impact on whether a college accepts or

declines an application. Some students suffer from test anxiety or simply lack testing skills. Test anxiety is a psychologically proven abnormality. The fear of failure overtakes the mind of the student and it is challenging to focus even if he or she has prepared for the test. Even with a high GPA, a low score on the ACT can negatively impact your chances of being accepted into a college.

Hannah Sluyter is a student at JCHS is dealing with this very issue.

Sluyter feels as if the test is unfair after all the hard work she has put in.

“I feel that if you have a high work ethic and your GPA shows it then the ACT shouldn’t determine which college you can attend,” Sluyter said, “If you are willing to work hard for four hours and keep your GPA up, a four hour test should not have the upper hand.”

The entire ACT is timed. On some portions of the ACT there are more questions than there are minutes given. Every test taker evaluates information differently and at different speeds.

There are ways you could apply to take the test with no time constraints,

Is P.E. a necessary class?

A

but not everyone qualifies. Another disadvantage of the test is the subjects you are tested over. A student could be advanced in 3 out of the 4 sections, but testing low on one section can bring the composite score down significantly.

Some students and professors believe that testing is the only way to display your comprehension over a subject. Other arguments claim that classes and other resources on the test taking strategy are available.

Yes, resources are available, however, there is no guarantee it will help every student. Since the test is timed those that have a high score are applauded for their ability to perform under pressure.

Even with resources and tutors, some people will always be at a disadvantage when unable to perform well on tests or not being proficient in one subject. The ACT is an unfair test and should not be such a concern when applying to colleges. The real work is shown in your GPA and your dedication to school. The ACT should not determine your future.

Rhakala Blackmon

huge question that we’ve all asked ourselves as we ran in the heat on the last lap of the mile: why is Physical Education a mandatory class? Honestly, after taking P.E. in elementary school and middle school, is it still necessary to take it during high school? I am an athlete that loves competing and playing sports, but even I don’t believe that P.E. should be a mandatory class for high school.

I don’t know how many times I’ve seen kids with C’s and F’s in P.E. because of lack of participation. It’s hard to stay in shape whenever you don’t participate. Some kids just aren’t interested in some of the games or

units we do. Whenever you do the same thing in P.E. every year things get old.

Additionally, sometimes kids are afraid to participate because they’re slower or overweight and don’t want to be made fun of. P.E. isn’t for everyone! Some people are good at math, science or history. For students who aren’t good at sports it can be frustrating to be in P.E. instead of taking a class they need to get into the college they want to. Also, the claim that P.E. or body conditioning helps students stay in shape is hard to believe. To maintain a healthy weight you must not only work out, but also eat right.

By high school people have decided

whether or not they are interested in playing in college or maybe becoming a professional athlete. I think that exercise is vital, but as someone who does sports already, why do I need a P.E. class? If P.E. has to be a mandatory class, why can’t highschoolers have the option to play a sport to get their credits in? For students who don’t want to do a whole lot of running there‘s options like golf, wrestling, and even being a thrower on the track team. Overall P.E. is just one of those classes that is nice to take but not really vital in high school.

www.jcredblack.com 12.15.17//OPINION

23

Arts &Entertainment VS

JCHS Students

Salem Sanfilippo Solindas

Staff Suggestions

#1 Rockstar-Post

#1 Gucci Gang- Lil

#2 Havana- Camila

#2 Rockstar- Post

Cabello

Molone ft. 21 Savage

#1 Monks- Frank Ocean #2 Angels- Vicetone

#3 Gucci Gang- Lil

#3 Thunder- Imagine

#3 Girl- The Internet

#4 Thunder- Imagine

#4 Perfect- Ed Sheeran

#5 Perfect- Ed Sheeran

#5 Too Good at

#4 You Broke Up with Me- Walker Hayes #5 Just the Two Of Us-

Molone ft. 21 Savage

Pump

Dragons

Pump

Dragons

Goodbyes- Sam Smith

Grover Washington Jr. ft. Bill Withers

Last minute gender-neutral Christmas gifts McCayla Hartman

The holidays are just around the corner, many people are going out and looking for gifts to buy for their family members or friends. If you’re looking for last minute gender-neutral Christmas gift that are also affordable, you can go to places like Home Goods and Target, TJ Maxx is also a good spot to check out. Even places such as Wal-mart are a good place to go and shop for gifts. They have really nice gift sets for low affordable prices.

Coffee $10.00 and under found at: Home Goods

Games $20.00 and under found at: TJ Maxx

$18.99 found at: Target

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$14.99 found at: Target

12.15.17//ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Matt LeCure

Mistletoe Hey! You up for a holiday kiss, Riley?

I don’t even know you, creep.

Mary, I don’t know what I’m doing Yeah, that’s wrong... because a mistletoe doesn’t mean a missile taped to a toe, Clara.

And my name is Bob.

Just tag @redblackjc and #redblackjc or email a staff member photo to enter one of our photo contests.

Different ways to celebrate the holidays

Theme: hunting season

Jordan Dearman

Salem Sanfilippo Solindas

H

anukkah began Dec. 12, Yule begins on the 21st, and Kwanzaa starts the 26th; all three are right around Christmas, and all three get totally drowned out by Santa and candy canes. When nobody is celebrating with you, how do you get into the holiday spirit? Luckily, it’s pretty easy to sneak your chosen holiday into the Christmas festivities.

Here’s a few methods.

1. Christmas trees

My family has a tradition of putting a shabby old styrofoam Star of David on the top of our tree instead of the standard 5-pointed gold one.

It gives us an excuse to decorate the iconic symbol of Christmas with lots of blue and white ornaments.

My mom gets Christmas, and I get Hanukkah, and we’re both happy.

You can do the same with Kwanzaa if you’ve got ornaments with tradi-

tional patterns or red/green/black color schemes.

2. Snacks for Santa

Santa is, no doubt, a Christmasspecific iWWdol, but that doesn’t mean he’s limited to December 25th. Instead of offering Santa cookies, get the kids in your house to make latkes or yule cakes to keep the spirit of America’s favorite fat red guy even while you’re teaching them about family tradition.

Tori Lepage

3. Let everyone know

This is by far the best method of encouraging representation. When people wish you a merry Christmas, enthusiastically wish them joy for your holiday. As they say, kill ‘em with kindness, so don’t get mad. Don’t be upset that nobody remembers your winter festivities, be excited that you have an opportunity to let them all know just how awesome those festivities

Gerritt Baughman are. The next time someone throws a “Merry Christmas” your way, hit them right back with a “Happy Hanukkah,” “Joyous Kwanzaa,” “Blessed Yule,” or “Happy Holidays.”

You never know, maybe they celebrate it too.

www.jcredblack.com 12.15.17//ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

25

REVIEWS

Did you see a good movie? Read an interesting book?

Hear a great song that’s stuck in your head?

Stop by room 141 with your suggestion.

Salem Sanfilippo Solindas

O

verall, I’d give “Justice League” a resounding “meh.” Maybe it was because I’m such a Marvel fanboy, I don’t know, but a lot of the movie left me with an aftertaste of disappointment.

One big issue I had with “Justice League” was The Flash. The character is relatable and funny, but I kept getting Quicksilver vibes. The two had very similar scenes in “Justice League” and “X-Men: Apocalypse” respectively, and it seemed that the writers at DC wanted to cash in on Marvel’s marketability. A key difference between The Flash and Quicksilver is that Barry had almost no serious moments.

It made him seem like he was just prsent for comic relief.

Matt LeCure

P

okémon Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon are retellings of the original Sun and Moon games, with some added features. Are they better than the originals? Let’s find out.

Pokémon Sun and Moon has some of the best characters in the series.

However, some characters in the old games felt incomplete. Villains had vague ambitions, and rivals were not as competitive. In Ultra, they changed that. Hau, the rival in the game, had a major upgrade. He started out casual, but in the end he was a strong foe. Lusamine, the villain, had a goal that wasn’t as vague as last time. In Ultra, she wanted to save the world,

McCayla Hartman

S

26

ince Dunkin’ Donuts has opened, there has been a lot of foot traffic.

I’ve been there once since it opened, and although I went there when it was busy, I got my order taken fairly quickly. The service is good and the food is better. They had a good variety of donuts and also of drinks.

They don’t just sell donuts; they also sell breakfast sandwiches. I ordered a chocolate covered donut and a regular iced coffee. As someone who likes a plain donut, it really doesn’t matter

Another thing that annoyed me to no end was the garbage CGI. It’s 2017, there’s no good reason DC’s graphics department is still lacking. Cyborg looked like a cartoon character with half of a human face photoshopped in.

Steppenwolfe, the villain, was even worse. He looked like he was ripped right out of a cutscene for a mediocre fighting game released in 2009.

The writers didn’t allow the to clash nearly enough, so it felt less like a team and more like a bunch of angry demigods punching a lizard person.

All things considered, Cyborg was amazing. I’m definitely biased since I grew up with “Teen Titans,” but I thought Cyborg was easily the best character in the movie, and the only reason this didn’t have a lower score. but her way of doing so wasn’t clear. I still think Lillie’s story from Sun and Moon is better. They left out a lot of scenes that were vital to her character development.

Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon added many new features Sun and Moon lacked: new minigames, more Pokémon, new side quests, a nostalgic postgame, new music and more.

I feel bad for my elementary and middle school friends who grew out of Pokémon: they are missing out on the franchise improvements If you are a new or old fan of Pokémon, get this game. It’s easy enough for new players, but difficult enough for veterans. where I go as long as it’s the one that I like. But as for my coffee, I usually just like to go to Starbucks because they have a wider variety than what Dunkin’ Donuts might have. It’s good that we got a old business back into Jefferson City and one that helped fill the place of Burger King. But if you aren’t wanting a donut or breakfast food, you could also get some ice cream.

Baskin-Robbins is shared with Dunkin’ Donuts in their new location on 2207 Missouri Blvd.

12.15.17//ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Which holiday movie is the absolute best?

Gillian Burks

112 students voted for their favorite Christmas movies, and the results show that the always-popular Elf is the class favorite.

Christmas slime: DIY

Tyanna Robinson and Madison Behrens

Supplies

Step 1

Step 2

4 oz. of Elmers Glue Half Tbsp. of Baking Soda Your choice of glitter or food dye (If you use glitter glue add little at a time) and finally, Contact Solution

Pour the 4 oz. of Elmers Glue in a container and add 1 1/2 tablespoons of making soda and mix together. Add a couple of drops of glitter and mix it all with contact solution.

Now just knead the slime. Work it through your fingers for several minutes until it begins to firm up. Get your container ready when you think it feels right.

Now you have slime!

www.jcredblack.com 12.15.17//ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

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