April 21, 2006 Image

Inside This Edition

•Discover some insights to the mystery of lips.

see page 9

•Check out the Summer Game Board.

see pages 10-11

Get some advice about making the college choice.

see page 14

•Get an inside look at the New Busch Stadium

see page 20

image the

Friday, April 21, 2006 Vol. 37 • Issue 8

Lafayette High School • 17050 Clayton Road • Wildwood, Missouri • 63011

Bond Issue efforts pay off

Hands-on voting encouragement helps pass Prop K Ashley Edlund • Reporter “How do I feel?” responded Principal Larry Schmidt, “very excited.”

On April 4, Proposition K passed with 67.07 percent voter approval. For Rockwood, this means much needed improvements will take place throughout the district.

More than $5 million in technology upgrades will be installed, which includes wiring upgrades and new computer hardware. Major maintenance items such as air conditioning and heating systems will also be improved.

Administrators said passage of Prop K was necessary to make building improvements and fund other projects throughout the district.

Even after successfully registering a thousand seniors to go vote, head of the parent campaign Mr. Steve Sloyer said he was still worried. “I was pretty optimistic,” Sloyer said, “but you don’t want to jinx it.”

But for others, the new improvements come at a price.

“I’m glad Prop K passed,” junior Courtney Manchenton said, “It focuses the district’s money in a necessary way that fixes problems and creates resources.

However, it also ruins my senior year for theater because we won’t be doing any large shows.”

The updated theater will replace the existing nurses office as well as the Welcome Center, the PIE office and the drama room.

The current overhang in the front of the building will be converted into a new Welcome

Center.

Construction crews will begin working on that project sometime during September or October 2006. With a busy parking lot and a construction crew trying to get their job done, Schmidt said he would suspect some disruption.

The failure of Proposition W last spring set back the Lafayette Theater Company, as other theaters in the district were already up to speed.

“There is a good possibility that the theater will not be available until March of 2008,” Schmidt said.

However, sophomore Kyle Johnson believes it is worth the wait. “A new theater means we’ll actually have fly space and better acoustics,” he said.

Construction of the new Commons, however, will begin as soon as the last week of May. The goal is to have the area up and running by the first day of school next year.

This includes a new performance area, with acoustical tiles suspended from the ceiling to accommodate it.

Performances such as Coffee House and dinner theater will take place there, as will other shows while the theater is under construction.

The new Commons will also be equipped with two new staircases instead of one.

“It’ll be easier to get to classes now instead of fighting your way up the stairs,” junior Ankit Bhargava said.

But most of the improve-

The Commons: A new Commons will be finished before the 2006-2007 year begins and will feature two staircases to replace the central

The Welcome Center: A new Welcome Center will be constructed under the front overhang creating a new main entrance to the building.

May 2006

photo • Tiffany Tocco

•Last Minute Push. On the morning of April 4, junior Brian Holthouse reminds parents to vote ‘yes’ on Proposition K. He was one of a handful of students who stood outside the entrances where students get dropped off to encourage voters to support Prop K.

ments Lafayette will see in the near future were included in Prop W and many parents who voted against Prop W last spring were in favor of Prop K. “I felt like they trimmed it down to the most important things,” parent Ms. Linda Goldberg said. She said she voted in favor of Prop K but not Prop W. Both packages would have made repairs to athletic department needs, such as repairing the track, tennis courts and the

roof of the back gym.

The difference in outcome seemed to lie with the issue of including artificial turf. It was not included in the 2006 bond.

“I think it [the artificial turf] was the key thing,” Sloyer said, “People really latched onto it and they thought it was a want instead of a need on the last bond issue.”

However, 32.93 percent of the community still voted against the no tax increase bond, while a

Theatre: Construction in the theatre will take the longest of all the projects as the existing space will be converted to a more modern facility.

Finished Product: Much like the renovation of the school front in 2000-2001, Proposition K construction will bring a new look to Lafayette.

September - October 2006

4/7 majority vote was necessary to pass.

“School needs the improvements,” librarian Barbara Topp said, “This is the best way to get the improvements done because it doesn’t increase the public’s taxes.”

The library will receive what is called a distance-learning center. The technology will allow students to watch a class that might be offered at Summit instead of Lafayette.

photos • Ashley Edlund

Spring 2008

page 2 • editorial

April 21, 2006

&

stuff these in your swimsuit

Stars To:

Has Prom gone wrong?

Cost, pressure, after party get out of hand The weeks leading up to it are a frantic rush of searching for dresses, tuxedos and the biggest limo you can find. If you have a date, it will be great. And if you don’t, it could be the most boring and lonely night of your life.

For some people, Prom is the last big event of high school. But maybe this magical evening isn’t exactly what it’s made out to be.

Most of all, the cost is ridiculous. Girls spend hundreds of dollars on just the right dress, only to find that some other girl showed up in the same one. And let’s not forget the expense involved with getting the perfect hair, nails and shoes.

Guys, on the other hand, spend their money on a tux that someone else has worn, an unnecessary limousine and new cologne that will hopefully turn the evening in a certain direction. Not to mention the cost of tickets, pictures and for the less fortunate, gas and parking.

It’s such a big production now. We think we’re royalty, when really everyone within a 50 mile radius thinks we’re annoying. A bunch of loud high school kids eating, dancing and probably misbehaving? Come on. Of course we’re annoying.

Preparation takes longer than the event itself, and there are more photographers than students. Between an irrelevant theme, overpriced dinner and an insufficient DJ, it’s a wonder why we care so much.

But it’s tradition. We have to care. People look forward to Prom all through high

image info Staff Members

Editor in Chief • Kevin Pinney News Editor • Lauren Graham Opinion Editor • Mary Belzer Feature Editor • Sabina Saakova Lifestyle Editor • Niky Norton Entertainment Editor • Britt Peters Sports Editor • Bobby Mortimer Asst. Sports Editor • Josh Handler Ad Manager • Nick Kelly Artist • Ankit Bhargava Adviser • Nancy Y. Smith MJE Photographer • Mike Kurlowski Reporters: Allyson Angle, Lauren Ashman, Jen Apoian, Ryan Bueckendorf, John Cox, Jasmine Cross, Hallie Darnell, Alex Davis, Ashley Edlund, Jeanne Francois and Brad Schlemmer

school. It’s a magical, romantic evening that celebrates the end of the year and the idiot at the gas station who accepts fake IDs. And, so much pressure comes along with what is supposed to be this nice, romantic evening. Couples are watching their every move trying to impress each other. Singles are trying as hard they can to have a good time and not look upset that they didn’t get asked.

We should be able to have fun at Prom.

It used to be a traditional evening of fancy food in a classy ballroom. Now the bumping and grinding is so extreme we can’t wave hello to someone without seeing something that couldn’t be shown on television.

Of course, we owe thanks for that bumping and grinding to our closest friend, the DJ. There’s nothing like listening to a middle-aged white man who thinks he’s 20 and extremely hip to get your groove on.

And, the unfortunate reality is that it’s no mystery that many Prom-goers are intoxicated from the beginning. At least we love our limos out here in West County, or half the school would end up in a drunk driving accident.

Now kids will be kids, but why not at least wait until after the dance? Don’t be rude and obnoxious to punish the rest of us who remained sober to enjoy the bash.

Not to mention the fact that it’s dangerous. There’s a reason the drinking age is enforced. We’re stupid. Young and

editorial Opinions do not necessarily reflect the viewpoints or official policies of the school administration. All editorials (unsigned) represent a majority opinion of the Editorial Board. Signed editorials, columns, editorial cartoons and reviews reflect the views of the author and not necessarily those of the Image Editorial Board.

stupid. We’ll make bad choices. And if someone gets caught, that’s they’re own fault. Don’t whine about it later. Show up wasted to a school function and expect to be punished.

Even more unfortunate, underclassmen are becoming more and more exposed to this behavior every year. Older boys like to pick on the young and innocent freshmen girls, leaving them in a rather compromising situation. A few drinks later, she’s not so innocent anymore.

All this being said, there’s plenty of good to Prom. For most of us, it’s one last bang before the end of the year. Everyone looks beautiful and at the end of the night, it was worth the hassle.

Moral of the story: have a good time, but be careful at Prom this year. Remember a poor decision can have life-altering consequences.

•Seniors are almost out. Unfortunately for teachers, senioritis is kicking in. There are things to miss about these halls, but it’s time to go out in the world and fend for yourselves. Catch you on the flip side.

•The new Busch Stadium is in full swing. Too bad the whole season is sold out. Hopefully new seats and fancy lights will make the Cardinals play hard enough to win the World Series.

•Summer is just around the corner. Time for swimming, sleeping and sitting around. If we’re lucky, all the fake tans will turn into real ones and the orange-skinned race will be eliminated.

•Next year a new policy will be put into action allowing iPods to be used in classrooms at teacher discretion. At least we won’t have to put wires through our clothing to hide headphones.

Gripes To:

•Soon, finals will start stressing everyone out. Hopefully lack of sleep, huge doses of caffeine and cramming the night before will turn things in the right direction.

• Zacarias Moussaoui, who had a hand in the Sept. 11 attacks, has been constantly bashing on America through his trial. Come on, pal, we already know you don’t like us. Unfortunately for him, he’s on trial to be executed.

•Absolutely no spring this year.

One day, it was four degrees, and the next, it was 80 and painfully humid.

Thank you, Mother Nature, for making Missouri the most confused state of all — especially when it comes to weather.

•Although seniors are almost out, they’re getting slammed with end of the year expenses. Between Prom, Senior Celebration and field trips, they’ll have no money left to even go to college.

•After the controversy surrounding the Danish cartoon of Muhammad, the creators of South Park were criticized for running an episode including Muhammad. Of all things, religion is where the line is drawn on one of the most crude, yet hilarious, shows on television.

•Faulty vending machines. They have trouble taking your second dollar, and once they do, your change comes back in too many nickels to hold in one hand. Since the cost is $1.25, there have to be quarters in the machine. Where are all these nickels coming from, anyway?

Publication Information

The Image is published nine times a year by Lafayette’s Newspaper Production Class. Subscriptions are $25 per year. Free issues are distributed on campus.

The 2004-2005 Image was named an International First Place winner from Quill And Scroll, Superior by the Sponsors of School Publications of Greater St. Louis and received an All-American rating with four marks of distinction from the National Scholastic Press Association. It is also a 2004-2005 NSPA Pacemaker finalist.

Philosophy Statement

The newspaper’s primary obligation is to inform its readers about events in the school and community and of issues of national or international importance which directly or indirectly affect the school population. The newspaper, while serving as a training ground for future journalists as part of the school curriculum, recognizes all rights and responsibilities under the First Amendment. Operating as a public forum, student editors will apply professional standards and ethics for decision making as they take on the responsibility for content and production of the newspaper. While the student staff encourages constructive criticism of any part of the newspaper, authority for content rests in the hands of the student members of the newspaper staff. Students will not publish material considered to be legally unprotected speech, or libel, obscenity, material disruption of the educational process, copyright infringement, or unwarranted invasion of privacy.

How To Reach Us:

We are located in Room 213 at Lafayette High School, 17050 Clayton Rd., Wildwood, MO 63011. Our phone number is (636) 458-7200 ext. 2338 and our e-mail address is smithnancy@rockwood.k12.mo.us

op-ed • page 3

the image

letters to the editor

Dear Editor, I, like every other offended soul who writes you a letter, believe in freedom of speech. So why is it that everybody gets offended at poor Mary Belzer’s column? Who would be so insecure as to assume Mary is personally attacking them?

The girl wants to write about fashion or religion, so let her. Just because she says it’s pointless to go out and buy a $200 or more purse from “Dooney & Bourke” doesn’t mean she doesn’t like you. I personally know Mary, and I know that she is a person with her own opinions about a lot of things. But she respects people, even if they have differing views.

And what about Kevin Pinney’s column? It’s not enough that the guy has to share a page with Mary, but he also has to be on the bottom of the page?

So many people have written letters about how they felt attacked by Mary, while nobody has even mentioned poor Kevin. Every week I feel like people go looking for reasons to complain about Mary’s column; ever since her story on religion was printed we as a school have launched a “Letter To The Editor” witch-hunt against Ms. Belzer.

As I recall, the same thing happened a few years ago to Howard Stern. After Justin Timberlake’s mishap at Superbowl XXXVIII, the FCC stopped at nothing to take all indecency off of the radio. One of their first victims? Howard Stern. All this censorship in a country where we value freedom of speech.

If Howard offends so many people, what is stopping you from changing the channel? The same works with Mary’s article. If you read something that offends you, turn the page. There are 15 other pages right in front of you to read, I suggest you try it out.

Sincerely, Bryant Vander Weerd, 12 Dear Editor, I doubt many people would disagree that the issue of homosexuality is a relevant topic, especially in student bodies like Lafayette’s. I mean, come on, only two of our school papers have addressed the subject, plus letters from critics and supporters. Both sides have argued, religious and non-religious.

I am a non-denominational Christian and have been raised that way my entire life. I consider the Bible to be 100 percent factual truth, or the inspired word of God, as the good book would say. That said, do I consider homosexuality a “sin”? Yes, I do. Do I consider homosexuality to be some kind of terrible disease? Of course not.

All people deserve respect and honesty. Christians, myself included, are just as much of sinners as any homosexual.

Point being, it seems that most non-religious individuals view Christianity as an intolerant, stuck up faith that discriminates against homosexuality. It also seems that nearly every Christian I speak with about this topic has the “Let’s all jump on the Jesus train!” mind set.

If you think I’m completely wrong, that’s fine. I’m not trying to shove theology down anyone’s throat.

But let me challenge you to educate yourself, Christian and non-Christian alike. See for yourself what the Bible says about homosexuality and about loving others as Christ did.

Sincerely, Ben Lawrence, 10

Golden rule is losing its shine Since kindergarten, we’ve all been told to treat others as we would like to be treated. As of late, I’ve been left wondering why those words aren’t always applied in the student-teacher relationship.

Because of school policies, students are generally required to respect teachers. Otherwise, we get slammed with a detention. Unfortunately for us, the administration doesn’t seem to work so hard to crack down on disrespectful teachers.

To clarify, I’m not talking about all of our fine educators. I’ve had several in my time here that make an effort to become friends with their students. And those are the ones that I enjoy learning from. I look forward to their class every day.

It goes both ways. If a teacher isn’t willing to make an effort to form a relationship with me, I’m not willing to make an effort towards them, either.

I may sound ignorant. Think that if you will. I realize that teachers are here for a reason. They’re here to keep order and instruct us. Teachers are not here, however, to criticize us.

Just recently, I forgot a book to class, as many of us have. Rather than not participating in the discussion and probably hurting my grade, I got a few minutes of ridicule in front of my entire class. In my opinion, it was an unnecessary response.

If that same teacher didn’t have an essay graded on the date that was promised, I wouldn’t chew them out.

I’d probably be irritated, as my teacher was with me, but if I were to express my discontent in front of the class in the same way, I’d be willing to bet there would be consequences, or, at the least, an excuse that would not be accepted coming from a student.

Just for the sake of plugging freedom of speech again, I would also like to point out the lack of freedom for opinions in the classroom. With some of my teachers, it’s a constant fight to answer a question the way I would like

Quite

Contrary

by Mary Belzer

to, rather than the way they would answer it. I can think freely. Just because my idea is different doesn’t mean I’m wrong.

In another past situation, I was attacked about another one of my very strong opinions. But that’s just it. It’s an opinion. Just because I don’t like the President doesn’t mean I’m going to blow up the White House. And just because I don’t agree with someone doesn’t mean I should close my mouth, even if it is my teacher.

And what happens to disrespectful teachers? A complaint by a student or parent may result in some form of discipline, but the student rarely sees results. If anything, this just creates more tension between the student and the teacher. It’s not even worth it. But of course, one complaint about a student lands them in detention.

While I’m at it, I’d like to discuss how unfair punishments are from student to student. I’ve heard rumors of students who are very involved at school getting in trouble and receiving minimal punishment, while the token slacker who breaks the same rule will get the worst punishment that the administration can get away with. It doesn’t matter if the student fills a trophy case or brings down average test scores: we should all be treated alike.

Just the same, it doesn’t matter if we’re teaching or learning. Punishment and policies should be similar across the board.

Lazy is definitely a 4-letter word With five weeks to go until summer, I’ve noticed a trend at Lafayette. It lowers test scores and grades. There is little we can do to fix it, other than change ourselves.

We’re all guilty of it – especially me. It’s a little thing called laziness.

Let’s start here at school. With MAP testing last week, I had something happen that I’ve never experienced before with state testing. Teachers rewarded me with valuable points to actually try on the tests. Tests that were formerly worthless to me, now became something actually worth working for.

I think they did it because scores are important to Lafayette. They are what make a 3.5 GPA here better than a 4.0 at Festus. But they also did it because they know kids are lazy.

Why should we try when there are no immediate awards to make our efforts meaningful? We don’t care if our poor test scores make by Lafayette a “dumb school”.

The upperclassmen are out of here in a year at most anyway.

Now to another thing that students don’t do. Read.

Let me tell you this: if Mr. Nathan Willard didn’t give reading quizzes for his classes, I, along with 90 percent of the other students, wouldn’t read at all.

I have a class right now that I’m supposed to read the chapter before each test. Even though there is content

only found in the book on the tests, I still don’t read.

The teacher will ask, “Who actually read?” and only a handful of people out of the 50 will actually raise their hands.

Many students don’t read because they don’t have the time. Why don’t they have the time? We all procrastinate. There’s nothing to fix that either. It’s the American way.

That’s why I’m writing this two days after our deadline. I waited until the last minute, watched it pass, and then waited a couple of days more.

That’s really pathetic now that I think of it.

But you know what’s really pathetic? What some people do when they’re done with lunch. They wait in line for 10 minutes, eat, then get up and leave – without the trash. So wait, you get your food, carry it all the way to your table, but can’t carry the tray and trash to their proper receptacles?

I want to say it’s only freshmen that do this, but I can’t. Sophomores do it Kevin Pinney too. Do you really think the principals stand around at lunch to clean up after your sorry hide? No. They’re there to make sure all that energy you save from being lazy all the time doesn’t get converted into something more colorful. A fight.

Laziness is the root of all our problems. And we’re too lazy to fix it.

So put that in your mouth, chew it. It’s delicious.

A Pinney For Your Thoughts

Just asking... photo opinion

This month the Image asks “Who is your favorite superhero?”

-compiled by Mary Belzer and Kevin Pinney

Kaitlin Malone, 12 “The Pink Power Ranger, because she’s a girl.“

Elise Reid, 10 “Cat Woman. Because she gets to wear leather.”

Max Beushausen, 11 “Ice man. Ice powers would be sweet.”

Danny Kenny, 9 “Batman because he lives in the shadows.”

David Choate, Language Arts Teacher “The Wonder Twins, because two is better than one. Duh.”

page 4 • campus

bits& pieces

news at a glance

• compiled by Jasmine Cross

Seniors end year with Celebration

Celebration 2006 will be held in the downstairs area of the Doubletree Hotel in Chesterfield.

Celebration is an all-night drug and alcohol free party. Loud music, great food and games are just a few of the many activities being offered at Celebration.

Prizes such as microwaves, DVD players, alarm clocks, phone and radios are being offered as door prizes. Prizes were donated and purchased with proceeds from the fundraisers done by the Class of 2006.

The lock-in Celebration is May 21, following the graduation ceremony. It begins at 10:30 p.m. and runs until 5:30 a.m. the following day. Tickets are $75 until May 20, but seniors need to purchase one by May 1, in order to be guaranteed the senior gift.

Features this year will include a dodgeball tournament, whiffle ball tournament, mechanical bull and bungee cord races.

MAP scores: potential college aid

Sophomores and juniors took the Missouri Assessment Program (MAP) on April 4-6 and again from April 11-13. Last year, Lafayette’s scores were in the top 10 of the state.

Besides being an “opportunity to showcase how great our students are,” said Test Coordinator Ms. Tonya Shipley, high MAP scores could help students get into college.

Shipley said while they are not required to get into a college, high MAP scores do go on a student’s Test Bank Card.

If a college or university is undecided about whether or not to accept a student, they can request a student’s MAP scores. At Lafayette, teachers and administrators set a serious tone that the MAP is important to staff, students and the community said Shipley. This serious tone seems to influence the students.

“The first three days teachers said the kids took it seriously and tried really hard,” said Shipley.

City Museum option replaces Senior Trip to Six Flags

Due in part to scheduling conflicts, this year’s senior field trip will be at the City Museum instead of at Six Flags.

Assistant Principal Tim Jones said he talked to many students who agreed that the City Museum would be a nice change from Six Flags.

Senior Alex Klein said, “I think it is nice that we have a change.”

On the other hand senior Anna Frederick disagrees. “I would rather go to Six Flags. I think it is really stupid”.

One benefit of going to the City Museum over Six Flags is that it will be less expensive with tickets running $15 for lunch, admission and transportation.

But for those who love the City Museum, if this year works out well, then the City Museum might be the senior field trip from now on.

“I go to the City Museum a lot and I’m a little upset, because I was kind of looking forward to Six Flags. I guess it will be fun though,” senior Brianna Dumont said.

This year the senior trip is April 28, the day before Prom.

fyi

(compiled by students in Writing & Reporting)

activities at a glance

Instrumental Music

In state Large Ensemble Festival, the Wind Ensemble received a superior rating of a one, the highest possible score. The last band performance will take place on May 9.

In District Solo and Ensemble competition, 11 events received superior ratings, and those musicians will continue to the state level competition on April 29.

The Jazz Ensemble traveled to the St. Charles West Jazz Festival and placed second. They also received awards for outstanding soloists Adam Lutz, Braden Miller, Christ Mozingo and Alex Reuman. Their next concert will be held on May 2, and they will perform along with the Chamber Choir.

The Winter Percussion traveled to the WGI National Championships in Dayton, Ohio on April 20.

They also recently placed fourth in the WGI Regional Championships.

Robotics Team

At the Robotics Competition March 9-11, the Rockwood robot, Gip, made it into the final rounds but did not place. The team rebuilt Gip the day before the competition to make it less top heavy.

For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology (FIRST), the organization that runs the competition, took the model of the playing court Rockwood made to put on display.

On March 17, there was a banquet that was held to show a video from the competition.

Now, the team is discussing what went wrong and figuring out what can be improved for next year.

Key Club

Key Club is now accepting cash donations to buy a portable DVD player for a soldier in Iraq. They have about half of the money that is needed to make this purchase.

They will also be participation in the Cinco de Mayo charity event at Chevy’s.

In June, Key Club will participate in Relay for Life.

Key Club also continues their trail building project through the end of April.

Class Officers for 2006-2007 school year

The new class officers for the Senior Class are: Brian Holthouse, president; John Buttram, vice president; Caroline Hoover, secretary; and Joey Meyer, treasurer.

The new class officers for the Junior Class are: Cole Donelson, president; Kyle Haberberger, vice president; Erin Petry, secretary; and Leanne Tracy, treasurer.

The new class officers for the Sophomore Class are: Shelby Fenster, president; Jordan Fullmer, vice president; Jonathan Citrin, secretary; and Kelsey Calvert, treasurer.

Student Council (STUCO)

The 2006-2007 Lafayette STUCO Executive Board officers include: Ananth Raghavan, president; Kirsten Taetz, vice president; Tyler Filmore, treasurer; Jillian Kyle, secretary; Katie Steis, spirit director; Jackie Gilliland, dance chair; and Brittany Weldon, assistant dance chair.

Cappie Nominees

The Cappies are comprised of over 20 member schools in the St. Louis area. Students review other high school productions in teams and then write reviews. As theater season comes to an end for the year, the Cappies are preparing to recognize students whose work stood out this year.

This spring, the group took nominations for Cappies Awards which senior member Beth Guckes said are like “Tony Awards for high school theatre.” The voting process took place on April 9 and the winners will be announced at a gala on May 7.

The Cappies Nominees from Lafayette include sophomore Missy Clay, juniors Courtney Manchenton and Jessica Kollar for Props & Effects in Cinderalla; Manchenton for Props & Effects in The Miracle Worker; freshman Keely McCaskie for Female Vocalist in Cinderalla; junior David Sajewich for Male Vocalist in Cinderella; junior Jessica Eggemeyer for Comic Actress in Cinderella; and senior Claire Franke for Featured Actress in a Play for The Miracle Worker.

Student Tans only $2.50!

New Super Hot Lamps!

Walk-ins Welcome

April 21, 2006

16421 Village Plaza View Wildwood, MO 63011 1.5 miles west of Manchester & Clarkson (636) 458-2400

Located across from the Wildwood YMCA

Student Discount Fill for $15 Full Set for $22 Manicure & Pedicure for $28

news • page 5

the image

Caution: Speed bumps ahead

On information superhighway, comments, pictures about beer, bongs and boys can get anyone in trouble Jen Apoian • Reporter Six million. Forty-five million. Fifty-four million.

The number of wildlife species in America? Try again.

They’re actually the numbers of people who have an account on Facebook.com, Xanga.com and MySpace.com respectively.

Anyone would agree the popularity of social networking websites have skyrocketed. MySpace. com, the leader in the online frenzy, has outdone even Google in the number of hits daily.

These sites offer a unique, online opportunity to build and maintain networks of friends.

For instance, finding yourself on Facebook.com may guarantee finally meeting that friend of the friend of your friend he or she was always talking about.

Junior Nikki Staszak confesses she’s guilty of having profiles on Facebook.com and MySpace. com and a Xanga blog, though she “doesn’t really use Xanga.”

She explained besides being popular, the big three offered a chance to mingle with her friends. “I like them because a lot of my friends have them so I can talk to them on there.”

Staszak continued by naming

MySpace.com, the forerunner in networking sites, as her favorite blogging site. “I can post blogs and make it more personalized.”

When asked what she posted on her blogs, Staszak replied, “Lots of stuff. [I post] a lot of surveys and stuff for just my friends to see… and just about when, like, things happen that I need to get off my chest.”

But this is stuff students have heard over and over again.

In fact, a quick search on Facebook.com can pinpoint many of the people who are reading this right now. And many of those people agree that socializing with friends and posting pictures are the main reasons they’re a part of networking sites.

Internet predators are out there, but it seems that at Lafayette, the true threat is posting too much online.

“There are a lot of party pictures and people doing stupid things that really shouldn’t be spread all over,” Staszak said and added that these images are mostly on Facebook.com.

“Pretty much it’s just girls drinking,” freshman Jacob Finley said.

Junior Ambria McIntosh was a victim of getting caught for posting stuff online. She has a page on Facebook.com, where she finds “naked pictures, drunk people, underage drinking” on other people’s pages.

“I was sending a sexual comment to a boy,” she said. “My mom caught me and read it when she found it. I was grounded and couldn’t talk to that person ever again. I didn’t really care [about the consequences], except I was sorry I got in trouble.”

Immediately after getting grounded, she removed several pictures and comments.

And it may not just be parents who are checking out these sites.

These sort of incidents can “definitely affect college admission,” Ms. Beth Brasel, College Admissions Specialist, said.

Though she doesn’t know of any specific situations of colleges checking potential admissions, she knows it’s dangerous.

“It could keep a student out,” Brasel said. “Colleges aren’t just looking for academic students, but students who can contribute to the college campus in a positive manner.”

Some parents, such as Ms. Robin Spears, said she gives full trust to her two children, “to a certain extent,” she said, “I do monitor them.”

However, for parents who aren’t internet-savvy, seminars are being held nationwide to inform parents on what kids are really doing online.

Sergeant Joe Laramie spoke with seniors during MAP testing about the dangers of posting something risky online.

Senior Steve Moxley said, “This is stuff he should be telling freshmen, not seniors.”

One interesting feature of Laramie’s presentation was about internet sex predators.

“At one point, he was on a MySpace page and also on a sex predator website,” Moxley said.

The goal was to show how easily networking sites are available to predators.

Laramie’s next presentation will be for parents on April 26 at Rockwood South Middle School at 6:30 p.m.

So, is Staszak worried about anything inappropriate on her site? “I don’t really have much to hide,” said Staszak. “Maybe a

few comments people leave me would be the worst.” Basically, anything that would remotely get this junior in trouble will be “hard to find.”

Besides, “if it is too inappropriate,” Staszak said, “I can just delete it.”

No one is telling students to post inappropriate information in the websites. As with Facebook.com, Xanga.com and the superpower MySpace.com, there is the option of leaving personal information blank.

Sophomore Tracey Medows, warned against posting too much personal information.

“I don’t post personal stuff about me on the internet; anyone who does that is stupid. Besides,” he said, “people who do post personal stuff just want attention.”

Senior Caroline Song said questionable pictures and too much information “probably aren’t even true.”

With thousands of users signing up daily on networking sites, it’s easy to fall into a trap.

Laramie warns users to remember there are a lot of people out there checking you out.

Time Is Running Out Get Your 2006 Legend & DVD Today! www.rockwood.k12.mo.us/lafayette/smith

page 6 • news

April 21, 2006

iPods cause controversy

Some teachers bothered by use, settled with vote Hallie Darnell • Reporter A new vote will make iPod enthusiasts happy.

Principal Larry Schmidt said the administration is “keeping the spirit of district policy,” when addressing the new iPod rule.

“It isn’t written yet,” Schmidt said, “but a vote has come in from the teachers saying that iPods, CD players and other devices can be used at teacher discretion.”

Four years ago, iPods were used only for entertainment purposes, such as downloading and recording music.

Today, they are being used to download movies and are starting to be used for educational purposes in the classroom.

The rule on iPods at Lafayette is plain and clear: iPods are not to be used during school hours. However, that rule appears to be the one that is a bit more flexible.

“In class, I don’t allow students to listen to them. Students think it helps them study well, but they often don’t realize it is affecting study. It can also be distracting to other students,” Mr. Landis Duffet, language arts teacher, said.

Some teachers do not mind the use of iPods in the classroom.

“Of course if I am giving instructions, they shouldn’t be listening to music, but in my art class, I don’t mind them listening, it helps some people focus. When I am painting, I listen to music to stay focused,” Mr. Bill Senti, art teacher, said.

Senior Tim VanCourt who has 1,607 songs on his iPod, believes that the use of iPods in school should be acceptable.

“I work better when I listen to music. It is a stress reliever,” VanCourt said.

The library is one place where students can listen to iPods anytime.

“I think that if it does not interfere with classwork, they are a great tool to help kids concentrate,” librarian Ms. Nicole Ballard-Long said.

Now the school is faced with more to argue about--should iPods be allowed in

school? iPods in universities all over the U.S. are being used for educational purposes.

According to CNN, iPod maker Apple Computer Inc. hopes to create “iTunesU” a service that makes lectures and other materials available for anyone online.

“I went to a technology conference, where I learned about podcasts. You can put PowerPoints, audio recordings of the classroom, or video record lectures on student iPods,” Senti said.

Universities all over the United States are now finding many uses for iPods in education.

Some of these uses include downloading films onto iPods, portable yearbooks, campus brochures, to address students and faculty, record lectures, record language study programs, thumbnail art sketches, download diagrams, PowerPoint presentations, recordings of poems, book reports, practice vocabulary and making student videos. “iPods could be used in education if a teacher records lectures. Then a kid who was absent [that day] could download them and listen to that lecture on his/her iPod,” Ballard-Long said.

“You can already put word documents on your iPod. They can be used to study for tests,” VanCourt said.

According to the Washington Post, the trendy technology and the possibility of a wider audience motivates students.

VoA News reports that the chance to listen to lectures as many times as necessary makes a difference.

“One time, I needed to bring my Lit paper home to finish it, and I didn’t have my flash drive, so I saved it on my iPod,” senior Tiffany Tocco said.

Freshman Danny Kenny said, “I think if they found a way to link iPods, they could be used for educational purposes, and already you can take notes and study off them.”

Pro Pool Management and Service Inc. is currently hiring MANAGERS and LIFEGUARDS for the 2006 pool season.

Pro Pool Management will be holding Lifeguard Training and CPR Certification courses in March, April and May. For more information, contact Pro Pool Management and Service at (314) PRO-POOL or visit www.swimpropool.com

Photo by • Ashley Edlund

•Portable Player. Killing time before school, junior Jeff Lauten uses his iPod. Many students spend their down time at school utilizing their personal music devices. They are also popular in the library and on buses. Next year, the school policy regarding these devices will change to allow teachers to make the decision about their use in classrooms.

news • page 7

the image

Bailey & Bhargava qualify for Nationals

Members of Speech and Debate will head to Dallas Lauren Graham • News Editor

Elise Bailey, 12

While some students may moan about standing up solo for some sort of presentation, members of the Lafayette’s Speech and Debate team are accustomed to the pressures.

Back in 1981, Jane Schroeder became the first student at Lafayette High School to qualify for Nationals.

What was unique about this conquered feat is that she qualified in a category which has long been done away with: Girls’ Extemporaneous Speaking. Extemporaneous Speaking is now no longer separated by gender.

Junior Ankit Bhargava has followed in her footsteps this year by being one of two members of Speech and Debate to qualify for Nationals.

Bhargava joined the Speech and Debate team his freshman year and has remained steady with his practicing of the category, Humorous Interpretation.

Bhargava said that this category is “comparable to acting but there is a distinction.” Every character in his piece is done by Bhargava.

In order to switch characters, Bhargava “changes voice, body language and posture.” The characters are not allowed to have props.

It takes practice to be able to successfully and skillfully go from one character to another in a performance because of the limited movement.

“You don’t really move around from your one place,” said Bhargava.

The piece Bhargava has been perfecting is an excerpt from Sakina’s Restaurant by Aasif Mandui.

“I wasn’t doing that well at the beginning of the year. I wasn’t well prepared then. Around October, things changed for some reason,” said Bhargava.

When Bhargava competed in Districts, he placed first. He also placed third in the qualifiers for both State and Nationals.

The State Tournament will be held April 21-22 at Mizzou.

Nationals this year will be held June 17-23 in Dallas.

Senior Elise Bailey will be going to Nationals this year as well.

“I’m taking my speech about EQ Testing,” Bailey said. “Basically, it’s a persuasive oratory convincing my listeners to take an EQ Test to know about their personal skills and improve upon them.”

Bailey is looking forward to Nationals.

“I’ll get a chance to see oratories I haven’t seen before. When we go to competitions around here, I see the same ones over and over again,” Bailey said.

Being on the Speech & Debate team, students get a lot of advice.

Bailey said that the best advice she has received is “Slow Down!” from Speech & Debate coach Mr. Dave Jenkins.

“It’s probably the best advice anyone could give me about speaking,” Bailey said.

Ankit Bhargava, 11

Our Business Is Feeding Your Business

15529 Manchester Road (636) 227-9100 Across From Royal Gate Dodge

$10 Off Any Special Occasion Styling With any color service, get a “free” bottle of Biolage Color Care Shampoo

And for you men, choose a “free” styling aid from our line of American Crew after your haircut.

Senior Ads For The Senior Edition Due Soon Check Our Website

CATERING Think Outside the Box Lunch!

Take your luncheon or event to the next level...

Weddings Bar Mitzvahs Corporate Picnics & More!

BUY ONE GET ONE FREE!

www.rockwood.k12. mo.us/lafayette/smith

SOUPS, SALADS, FRESH DELI SANDWICHES Dine In or Carry-Out Only Expires April 30, 2006

17371 Edison Ave

Chesterfield

(behind Home Depot)

636-536-0101

15367 Manchester Road Ballwin, MO 63011 (Located near Borders) Come On In or Call Us At

(636) 391-0919 Visit Us Online At www.maggiemoos.com

page 8 • features

City Museum

April 21, 2006

Museum’s exciting atmosphere captures teen interest Lauren Ashman • Reporter

Like kids in a candy store, visitors enter the City Museum. Upon arrival they are immediately struck by the giant jungle gym towering above.

The “most monumental. monolithic, monstrous montage of monkey bars in the world” eggs them on to come and play. However, the historical and architectural magnificence that is the City Museum cannot go unappreciated.

The City Museum has captured and preserved the essence of the history of St. Louis. However, unlike traditional museums, the City Museum allows visitors to become a part of these exhibits.

“A traditional museum to me is some place that you can see art, observe it, and learn from it,” junior Chris Clayman said.

“At the City Museum you have the choice to sit and really understand the thought and creativity that has gone into the place or can run and crawl around recklessly and have a fantastic time doing so”.

The City Museum opened its doors to the

public in 1997, and costs visitors $12 per person to enter.

It is built within the walls of the old International Shoe Company.

The building itself, and everything from a yellow school bus dangling off the roof, to an old green and gold elevator in Architecture hall, is recycled from around the area. Although it has become loved by young and old alike, it was “conceived by adults for adults,” Paula Mandel of the City Museum said.

Yet, it is hard to escape the Museum’s child-like atmosphere, that master mind Bob Cassilly created.

“It seems to be like a McDonald’s play place for adults,” Clayman said.

“Seeing the creative things that they’ve placed there is one great thing, but being part of them is a whole other, and better thing.”

As Mandel put it, “Bill has a social consciousness.

He tapes into everybody and makes things fun, makes you want to do it, to think outside the box.”

As a result of this social consciousness, Cassilly created an eclectic museum of recycled material as unique as those who visit.

“In the City Museum you definitely feel a strange connection to St. Louis itself. It always seems like a huge party with other St. Louisiana, all eager to discover what the museum has to offer,” Clayman said.

Enchanted caves wind throughout the museum.

Her children and adults can climb, explore, hide, and seek, left and right, up and down.

Animals from jellyfish to alligators, from the Mississippi to the Amazon, all reside in the World Aquarium. This part of the museum adds a unique zoo like flare, smell, and all.

The World’s largest pair of underwear hangs along with other oddities in the museum of Mirth, Mystery and Mayhem. A bearded lady, a fun house, the smell of corn dogs and carnival music all come to mind in this circus like atmosphere.

Red, blue, green, yellow,

Smoothie Time!!

$1.00 OFF

Any Smoothie (Expires 5/05/2006)

Offer good only at: 2432 Taylor Road Wildwood, MO 63040 In the Dierberg’s Town Center

The best tasting smoothie on the planet!

glitter, glue, crayons and markers, clay, paint, scissors and tape are strewn about in a city made for everyone’s inner artist.

“Each of the exhibits has its own theme, and these themes lend the Museum its uniqueness,” Clayman said.

Yet the most important part of visiting these exhibits is going in without expectations, Mandel added. Visitors can take the museum for what is to them, not what is to those around them.

A plane flying high above the ground, transforms children and adults into pilots. Other visitors sit and appreciate the mosaics that span across the ceiling, floor, and pillars.

Still others appreciate how the museum caters to both their inner child and appreciation for art.

“As an adult, I have the choice to contemplate what recycled material the pillars are made of, or as a kid I can drive into a gigantic whale and find whatever nooks or crannies will lead me to new places,” Clayman said.

photos • Alexis Myers

•Crazy Creatures. During a visit to the museum, one will find lots of exotic creatures from parrots to sharks to alligators. The museum is filled with exciting exhibits and games. Best of all, most all of the museum’s attractions are educational.

features • page 9

the image

Pucker Up

What moistens your lips?

Popularity of lip balm is on the rise

20% Carmex

Brad Schlemmer • Reporter As winter passes, students continue to fumble through their pockets, bags and purses searching for something to protect their lips.

Although some chap sticks have been modified to be nearly lip gloss, in general, chap stick is still universal. Students kiss winter goodbye and tell all about their way of protecting, beautifying and even enlarging their lips.

Lip maintenance might have started as, essentially, a wickless candle in foil, people have found multiple methods to make their lips tingle and burn for beauty. Any common brand of chap stick will contain some form of moisturizer that will protect lips and a type of sun block.

According to an Image, the most common brands are Burt’s Bees, ChapStick Lip Balm, Blistex and Carmex. Burt’s Bees is considerably more popular than the other brands. At first observation, one can guess it is more preferable because Burt’s Bees is the newest out of the remaining chap sticks.

On the other hand, Carmex is nearly the oldest chap stick invented, and it still remains among the most popular brands. “It leaves my lips really smooth, and it gets rid of dry skin and gunk on my lips,” freshman Helen Black said.

Protecting lips with chap stick doesn’t keep them perfectly secure. Sharing lipstick is not very safe, and even using samples in stores can spread bacteria.

Leaving the tops off lipstick containers allows them to be vulnerable to infection. A way to prevent spreading bacteria is using a Q-tip on samples so the lipstick doesn’t come in direct contact with someone’s lips.

Sophomore Missy Clay is in many theater pro-

48% Burt’s Bees

ductions and she says how it is vital that everyone usually has their own set of makeup to use. After all, it is a possibility that contaminated lipstick can spread herpes Type 1 or cold sores.

Even at home, Clay tries to keep track of all her chap sticks. After she is sick for a period of time, she will cut off small slices from the top of her chap sticks. She said that bacteria can fester in the chap stick if someone is sick and doesn’t get rid of the top layer. “It’s similar to food. It can be transported to different people, it’s just not ingested,” Clay said.

As of late, lipsticks, chap sticks and lip gloss are now joined by a fairly new product. Girls everywhere are trying a new stimulating lip innovation: lip-plumping gloss. Initially, this merchandise hit the shelves with a semi-painful side effect that would burn ladies’ lips and then it would build up the lips. The purpose is to acquire fuller, more voluptuous lips.

Even this new invention has taken a second step.

More companies are trying to diminish the burning effect so girls won’t be turned away by the tingle.

The real question is: how does it work? Many of these products have some moisturizers that will soften lips, a variety of colors to choose from and a type of patented formula that will reach down into the collagen in lip tissue, enhance it, and the result is increased volume.

It seems lip-enlarging comes with added bonuses. For some brands such as CityLips, reviews say that it fights free radicals, reduces wrinkles around the lips and removes cold sores.

Whether it’s protecting lips from whip-lash, taking hygienic measures to keep lips clean or just trying to look good, nothing is taboo.

18% ChapStick

14% Blistex

208 students polled

Fever blisters become a rising problem Brad Schlemmer • Reporter Cold sores, also known sores has flared up the vias fever blisters, are a ris- rus lies dormant in the ing problem in today’s so- nerve cells of the body unciety. til the next attack arrives.

Very contagious and Prior to full exposure the quickly spread, cold sores infected area on the skin often appear as reddish will become sensitive and purple blisters on the lips. may start to itch.

Cold sores are caused Onset of the infection by the Herpes Simplex may be triggered by fevers, Virus (HSV), which may menstruation, stress and spread through contami- heavy exposure to sunnated material, such as light. Cold sores cannot razors, towels or eating be cured, however, steps to materials. reduce their presence may Sexual activity with an be taken. infected person may cause O ver-the-counter the spread of genital her- creams and pain relieving pes, which is a type two medication may help subvirus of this sort. side some of the irritation Once an episode of cold and discomfort.

HAIRCUT & BLOWDRY

9.99

$

Not valid with other offers. Limit once coupon per customer. Good at participating locations.

Expires 5/31/06

FORMAL STYLE $10

Off

Not valid with other offers. Limit once coupon per customer. Good at participating locations.

APPOINTMENT REQUIRED

17281 Chesterfield Airport Road (Right Next to Starbucks) (636) 532-4558 Tonia - Manager

Expires 5/31/06

119 Hilltown Village Center (at Olive and Chesterfield Parkway) (636) 537-9932 Erin - Manager

Store Hours Monday - Friday 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM Saturday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Sunday 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM

in•out•about

page 10 • entertainment

You deserve a break.

Pay Day Move ahead one space.

entertainment • page 11

April 21, 2006

Arrive at least an hour early for free seats at the Muny at Forest Park.

Pretend your a tourist while visiting Six Flags St.Louis, in Eureka.

Jump ahead one space.

Go to Bluebird Park every Wednesday for a free outdoor concert.

You show up late for work.

Be more responsible.

Go back one space.

You find a bargain down in The Loop while your eating and shopping.

Jump ahead to the Muny.

At the North Pointe Aquatic Center in Ballwin, you can drift through the never ending lazy river.

Pretend you are a kid again.

Play at the City Museum in downtown St. Louis.

summer version Road Trip

Take a road trip across the country or maybe even just over to Illinois.

Advance one space.

Take a mini road trip to Raging Rivers in Grafton, Illinois. You can cool off on a hot day with 4 water slides, a swirpool, wave pool and an endless river.

Go to a state park, such as: Castlewood, Babler, Rockwood Reservations or Sherman park for an outdoor adventure.

After saving up money from your new job, you decide to spend it on concert tickets. Visit www.riverport.com for a list of concerts at UMB Bank Pavillon.

You have failed to get a job.

You forget to bring a map on your road trip, now you think you may be lost.

Lose one turn.

Lose a turn.

You need money for summer fun. Look in the St. Louis Post Dispatch Classifieds for a summer job.

Celebrate St. Louis by going to a free Live on the Levee Concert, in downtown St. Louis, along the Levee. Visit www.fairstl.org for more information.

Day Off Work

First Day Of Summer

First Day Of School

Start

End

End

With the summer coming to an end, you forget to buy new school supplies.

Advance one space.

You find a bargain down in the boutiques while at The Delmar Loop, in University City.

The days you have left are limited.

Go watch a Cardinals game at the new Busch Stadium.

Your Curfew has been extended an hour.

Take your significant other to Forest Park.

Save some of your money and go to Clancy’s.

Move ahead two spaces.

Have a fun day at the St. Louis Zoo, followed by a picnic in the park.

Every Monday & Thursday are $1 burger nights.

Summer Fling Summer flings may come and go, but the memories last a lifetime.

Advance three spaces.

Concept/Design • Britt Peters Art • Beth Guckes

Travel through the months of summer getting a job, getting paid, going on a road trip and having a fling. Time is your limit so start from the first day of summer and travel your way around the board until you reach the end or the first day of school.

Materials: Game Pieces & Dice Directions: 1. Gather up a game piece for each person playing.

2. Take all of the game pieces and put it on the first day of summer or start.

3. Every person has to roll the dice to find out who goes first. The person who rolls the highest amount goes first. Move in a clockwise direction.

4. Move the game pieces around the board until the end, or the first day of school.

5. The person who gets to the first day of school first, is the winner.

page 12 • features

April 21, 2006

As the year comes to an end, seniors prepare to go off to college, while underclassmen begin to consider their future study options. Decide whether staying home for college or going away is best for you with our college guide.

Staying

The Pros.

•Staying home for college means your parents are close, that is if your not living with them still.

•Students who are staying home don’t have to change their entire environments, providing for a more comfortable freshman year of college.

•Students staying home don’t have to deal with the hassle of driving long distances to get home or booking airplane tickets.

•Staying in your area means that anytime you miss your mom and dad you can swing by and visit home.

•Tuition is cheaper when you stay at home.

The Cons.

vs.

Leaving

The Pros.

•Being away from home allows more freedom, responsibility, and adventure.

•Going away helps students mature into young adults and begin to grow into the young adults they must become.

•Leaving your hometown also allows for students to discover a new place, make new friends, and provides many more options.

Do you prefer to go away to college or stay close to home?

The Cons.

37% Staying 63% Leaving

•Students who stay home for college or at

a near by school don’t get the experience of learning how to live on their own.

•Staying home doesn’t give students the opportunity for extra responsibility.

•Staying at home means your parents will still always be around.

•No real adventure comes out of staying really close to home for college.

428 students polled

Why do you prefer to leave home when going to college?

Why do you prefer to stay close to home during college?

“I would rather stay close to home because I get home sick easily. After about a week goes by I feel like I want to come home.”

•Lauren Hibler, 12

•When you go away from home you are far from you family and friends.

•Sometimes communication between close friends starts to dwindle because of the long distance.

•It’s harder to get money to pay for certain expenses.

•Some students find it hard to adapt to a new environment and therefore struggle their first year away from home.

•Expenses for out of state schools are much greater than staying instate.

Lauren Hibler

Caroline Foss

“I would prefer to go further from home because it allows you to start you life without depending on your parents for everything.”

• Caroline Foss, 11

Sabina Saakova • Features Editor

SpecialDiscountforStudents

Shear Paradise 16431 Village Plaza View Drive Wildwood, MO 63011 (636) 458-1792

Diebergs Town Center 2438 Taylor Rd. Wildwood, MO 63011 call 636.405.1190 for appointments Full Set for $19.99 (Regularly $28)

Fill Ins For $14.99 (Regularly $18) Spa/Mani & Pedicure for $27.99 (Regularly $35) Pedicure for $19.99 (Regularly $23)

• Haircutting & Styling • Highlights & Color • Up-Do’s Prom Special Mention This Ad and Get 1/2 Off on a Manicure or Pedicure with Every Up-Do

features • page 13

the image

Summer Camp

Summer Camp

The summertime is a time for loving, laughing and cool summer camps.

The following students share some of their most memorable camp stories.

Several camps are offered around our St. Louis. Popular camps today include sports, dance and music camps.

photo courtesey of • Erin McFerson

•Jumping Rope. Erin McFerson, shown above jumping rope, hangs out with the children of a Mexican village.

McFerson traveled to Mexico on a mission trip and fell in love with the work her and her fellow missionaries accomplish. Apart of the First Evangelical Church of St. Louis, McFerson plans to travel to Tijuana this summer.

Student travels to Tijuana on mission trip

• “I like summer camps because I get away from home and relax. I’m outside and I meet new people. My best memory was when I went canoeing with my friend and she ran me into a mosquito’s nest. I had bites everywhere. It hurt but was hilarious” • Kendall Brewer, 9

• “I went to camp Lake wood for five years. I’ll never forget when our cabin started a food fight outside and I got hit in the face with chocolate pudding.”

• Ryan Jaccard, 11

Jeanne Francois • Reporter The school year is almost over. The end of school gives students the chance to sleep-in, not worry about homework and time to hang out with friends.

But for some, the summertime gives students a chance to help those less fortunate.

Junior Erin McFerson will give a little of her summer to help others during a mission trip to Tijuana, Mexico.

All of these actions help bring a smile to these people in need.

During the beginning of July, McFerson is going to Tijuana for one week with the First Evangelical Church of St. Louis where she will work with the churches in one of Tijuana’s little villages.

Last year, McFerson attended a similar trip. Describing the experience, McFerson said, “The trip is amazing. I can’t wait.

When I’m over there, I do not want to come back home.”

This year will be the second time that McFerson will be a part of the mission trip.

Working with a Mexican organization called Yugo, McFerson and her church establish activities for the particular village they are visiting.

“We give Bible lessons, we make crafts with women and play sports with the children and we also go into the community,” McFerson said.

The group goes to the parks, to the street or to the market.

There, they play jump rope, play soccer and talk to women and kids about Jesus.

For those who are not reli-

gious, the group talks to them about other important issues.

McFerson remembers a time when the missionaries had organized a Bible study for the older women, but the women did not show so the missionaries took the children out to the park to play.

“I taught a little girl to play jump rope, it was not planned. It is there that we live the most life changing moments,” she said.

“You do not have to expect anything. You have to be ready for whatever happens. When it is not planned, it’s always an impacted moment,” McFerson said.

To be prepared for this trip, the group has to have three months mission training in order to know what they are doing down in Mexico and to be ready for what they will see and experience.

During this mission training they also work with four translators, who travel with the group.

Special build teams, who will accompany the missionaries also attend training.

McFerson explained that although they don’t speak the same language, there is a connection built between the missionaries and the people who they go down to help. “Actions speak a lot better than words, we show our love,” McFerson said.

For instance, last year she was doing crafts with women and was trying to help a woman with her English while the woman helped her with Spanish.

“I felt a real connection between us. She told me it was the best week of her life and she was shocked that somebody wanted to come down to her poor little town to help them,” McFerson said.

Another thing that touched her was how different the culture in Mexico was.

“People over there care more about each other and everybody in the street says hello and asks how you are even if it’s the first time you meet them,” she said.

Going on a mission trip is not always easy.

Emotionally it may be hard for some people to see the way that the villagers live.

Not everything is as comfortable as it is her in America.

McFerson explained that for one week her and her friends have to sleep in tents and cannot drink the water so they have to bring their own. “The showers were freezing,” she said.

Nevertheless, all the uncomfortable situation are less important after one realizes the achievement and the happiness they have given.

Going on a mission trip is not only a fun time spent with friends, it’s a wonderful personal experience that asks a lot from an individual and brings out the best in them.

“I go to this mission camp in Mexico because I’m serving a group purpose, I’m doing something to help others and I spread the gospel to the people of Mexico,” McFerson said.

Sunday thru Thursday with Two Drink Purchase Dine-In Only - 1 coupon per table - Expires 05/30/06 Discounted dinner must be of equal or lesser value Not to be combined with any other offers or specials

• “I went to camp Kanackuk and we slid on vines over the lake. There was a lot of trees and wildlife.

I was in the second grade then so I cant remember much but it was a really cool time.”

•Kris Williams, 9

• “I love camp because you meet so many people. The first day we had a big party with 300 students. I met a lot of different people and also, I met a kid who remembered me since the second grade!”

• Jill Hecht, 12

16461 Village Plaza View Drive Wildwood, MO 63011 Phone/Fax (636) 273-9238 Sunday - Thursday 11:00 am - 10:00 pm Friday & Saturday 11:00 am - 10:30 pm

page 14 • lifestyles

April 21, 2006

Your Future Is Calling: Are You Answering?

Students have many options to consider when making post-graduation decisions Niky Norton • Lifestyles Editor “Where are you going to school?”

This question is synonymous with senior year, but ask any senior, and they’ll tell you the process of reaching an answer is long and difficult.

While talking with seniors, much was said about the college decision making process.

For those looking to begin the college search, the task can seem overwhelming, and in a way, it is.

There are over a million colleges in America to consider, and after you narrow your spectrum, you have to consider size, location, major, housing, meal plans, the list goes on.

Although daunting, there are things students can do to make

this experience a good one. As soon as possible, start researching potential colleges.

If you know what you want to do, search online for schools that have good programs for your prospective major, and if you are unsure, look for schools with good general programs or schools that fit your needs.

According to collegeboard. com, factors to consider are: location, size, mix of students, academics, extra-curriculars, and facilities.

Rank these aspects in order of importance and go from there.

Once you have narrowed down your choices, begin exploring your options.

Attend college fairs, search web sites, and arrange college visits.

“Visiting is the most impor-

photo • Niky Norton

•Talk It Out. Preparing for college, senior Brandon Faerber discusses his future plans with Ms. Beth Brasel, college admissions specialist.

tant part of the college decision making process,” college admissions specialist Beth Brasel said “Don’t rely on what friends or siblings have to say.”

When visiting schools, make sure to attend information seminars and take notes. When it comes to deciding, the notes you took can be very helpful.

Lafayette offers group discussions with speakers from different colleges throughout the year.

Also, make sure to take notice of the kinds of people that encompass the student body. If you can see yourself fitting in with those people, chances are you will.

“I really loved the scenery of Lawrence [Kansas] and the atmosphere. [Kansas University] has a lot of school spirit too, which really appealed to me,” se-

nior Lindsey Aufricht said of her selected college.

A big part of making a decision is how comfortable you feel on campus; if you feel drawn to a school, don’t ignore your intuition.

“A lot of my decision had to do with how comfortable I felt at [University of Missouri-Kansas City], senior Amy Karim said.

“The campus is really geared towards students but then down the street, the Plaza provides an urban feel,” Karim said.

Distance is also a big factor for a lot of students.

“I want to be far away, but still close enough to come home if I want to,” Aufricht said.

It is also important to take the ACT or SAT, depending on which schools you are looking at.

Most accept either, but coastal schools generally look for the SAT, while schools in the Midwest generally prefer the ACT. These tests can be taken repeatedly, so strive for the best score you can get.

Once the tests are out of the way, the hardest part of the process comes into effect; the decision.

“Get advice from people you trust, talk to current students, visit campuses, and compare financial aid awards,” collegeboard.com stated.

“Don’t rush this decision, make sure to consider all the aspects and visit, visit, visit,” Brasel said.

Talking to people you trust can be very helpful, but be sure to make the choice for yourself; this is a very personal decision.

How did you decide where to go next year?

“I will be attending the University of Colorado at Boulder. I chose this school based on its academic standing, future job opportunities, and they have a nationally competitive dance team. Plus I didn’t apply to any schools in Missouri in order to meet new people.”

• Christina Calandro

“[I chose] Maryville because even though I’ll live on campus, it is close to home and I really liked the smaller campus and classes because it’ll be easier to learn with fewer people in the classes instead of a huge lecture hall.”

• Ashley Semore

“I plan to go to Lindenwood University next year. I made this decision because I got a scholarship for field hockey and I’ll be living in a dorm but still be close to home for good meals and laundry.”

• Kelly Dowell

“[I will] move out to Nevada, somewhere in Clark County to get residency and attend UNLV one year late. This will cut tuition by 75 percent so I can avoid student loans and not rely on my parent’s for it.”

• Alex Sandroff

“I plan to attend the University of Missouri-Columbia and study business. I chose to stay in state because it was close enough, but still far enough away, and Columbia is a pretty awesome college town!”

• Nikki Hassanzadeh

• Embroidery • Screen Printing • Promotional Products •

204 THF Blvd.

Chesterfield, MO 63005 www.embroidme.com

• • • • • • • •

(636) 532 - 0066 Fax (636) 532 - 0081 chesterfield@embroidme.com

Embroidery • Corporate & Small Business Screen Printing Specialists Advertising & Promotional Items • Golf/Polo Shirts Heat Transfers • T-Shirts & Denim Digital Apparel • Caps/Hats Gifts & Novelties • Towels From 1 - 10,000 • Bring Your Own: Uniforms & In - House Design Sports Apparel

16447 Village Plaza View Drive (636) 458-9000

Ellisville Square 15943 Manchester Road Ellisville, MO 63011

Phone 636-391-5368 Hours Mon.-Fri. 9:00 A.M. - 9:00 P.M. Saturday 8:00 A.M. - 6:00 P.M. Sunday 10:00 A.M. - 5:00 P.M.

$3.00 Off With This Coupon

sports • page 15

the image

Boys lacrosse continues to win after last minute lost to P. South Alex Davis • Reporter Boys lacrosse this year has so far been a success. Although they have not had any big wins over bog opponents, they are getting the job done. The team is currently standing at 8-2, and looking to extend their streak against DeSmet on April 26, and then against the reigning State champs MICDS on May 9.

“Those games are going to be huge challenges.” Coach Ren Petinelli said. “But if any team can do it, I think we can.”

“I expect us to win it all. Although those games are going to be tough, I think we can do it,” senior captain Josh Albrecht said.

Though, the team hasn’t faced any ‘big challenges’ yet, they should have enough time for

practice and good preparation, and that means the newcomers will have a fair amount of time to get ready.

“Three new kids that have really done well this year so far are juniors Tim Hibbard, Tim Eising [11] and sophomore Dan Strike,” Petinelli said.

“We have a lot of young kids that are doing well that can help us get past those big games., senior captain Lonny Blumenthal said.

On another high note for this season, Blumenthal has just surpassed the all-time record for most points in a career at Lafayette.

Last year, he had tied the record for most points in a season with 113; the previous record holder was his brother, Jake Blu-

menthal.

“It feels good to share something like that with my brother.

But the record this year isn’t as important because I am more focused on winning State., Blumenthal said. Getting as far as that will be especially difficult with big games coming up.

“I am looking forward to the MICDS since they are reigning State champs. It will change the way they scout us [breaking the record], they will definitely focus on defense more so we will have to be ready for that,” he added.

The team’s only loss is to Parkway South, 13-14 in the final seconds of the game.

It was tied 13-13 with just about a minute left in the fourth quarter when South scored to finalized the win.

Being a reporter, we have all been placed in the situation of interviewing a coach or Bobby Mortimer player. I must •Sports Editor saytheanswers you get from them are all the same. It’s liked they’re all chipped.

Let me share a story of a football season for you with these wonderful sports clichés that I’ve heard through my high school career of reporting.

Are you ready for some football? We were on fire tonight.

We just needed our defense to show up! Are offense did a great job. We gave it a 110 percent.

We never doubted our team.

We had our ups and downs.

We couldn’t catch a pass if are life depended on it. But we never

gave up! We couldn’t get control of the ball, but we kept with it.

We played as a team. We won as a team! There is no “I” in team and we proved it.

We came into a few games thinking it will be a tough match.

Our heads were held high.

We couldn’t look at fear itself.

We never gave up! It’s not over until the fat lady sings.

We had the determination to win the last few key games. We set our goals. We will not be defeated.

We are better than they are.

If we play our game we will win.

If we don’t then we have a problem. We just have to take it one game at a time.

Let’s get ready to rumble. This game is an easy win. Losing is like trying to hit the broad side of the barn and missing from three feet away. We need every pass, every

tackle and every kick.

Winning is on our side. Losing isn’t even in our dictionary.

Were bigger then them. Where better then them.

Our final regular season game was a big lost. We over came it.

A freight train just laid out Joey.

But he got up with his own power and walked of the field.

We couldn’t stop the rush.

Overall we played a team game, but not our game.

We played there level of play.

At the end of the game they just had more points then we did.

Our final game meant the most to us, the Conference Championship.

Our team matched up well against our opponent. Every play had to be completed. Even when we were down we never gave up.

We fought with are hearts.

Once the fourth quarter hit vic-

photo • Hillary Kummer

•Moving Down. Cradling past her Marquette defender, sophomore Kodi Thornton moves down field. This year the girls lacrosse team has gone 3-0 with a win against Eureka (10-2), Marquette (15-3) and Parkway South (10-2).

The Side Liner: A football season full of sport cliches tory was in our sites.

Near the end of the game we couldn’t capitalize on their mistakes, and we put them right back into the game.

Our defense couldn’t stop their go-to guy. He lighted us up in the fourth quarter.

We played with dignity and left with our heads held high.

As I talked to the coach after the game all he could say was that we had the game in the palms of our hands. But we spoon-fed them the victory.

They out played us, they capitalized on our mistakes, and they made the key stops. I raise my hats to them and the best of luck for them.

We should of one but we didn’t play our A game. We were sloppy at the beginning and never made it up.

I’m proud of our guys though,

the coach said. They never gave up; they played with intensity all game.

We were the better team we should of won. You know what they say you can’t win them all!

Trying to write a sports story full on clichés is tough to do.

We tend to ask more complex questions to get a legit answer.

I don’t know why, but most star athletes can’t comprehend a complete thought.

If we ask them, how was the game; what went wrong?

We get the typical ‘ they just outplayed us and we couldn’t capitalize!’

After it’s all over, I go home and try to type a decent story with a paper full of the same quotes that were fed to me during the interviews.

You try writing one; they all come out the same!

2 for 1 Studio Fee Special Expires February 27th

A Great Place To Create Holiday Gifts

-Now HiringHosts & Bussers Fun Atmosphere Open for Dinner Only

Flexible Schedules Available 15412 Manchester Road Ellisville, MO 63011 Phone (636) 256-4411 Fax (636) 256-4483 obs2611@outback.com www.outback.com

page 16 • sports

April 21, 2006

Lantz, freshmen lead Lady Lancer soccer team to a quick 5-1 start Josh Handler • Asst. Sports Editor

photo • Mike Kurlowski

•Dribbling Towards the Net. Fighting an opponent for the ball, senior midfielder Meg O’Connell trys to put the Lancers on offense. O’Connell has one goal and two assists this season.

After five games in the 2006 season, the girls soccer team looks to improve upon their 5-1 record.

In their first two games, the team shutout St. Charles West 30 and Fort Zumwalt North 4-0, before losing to Oakville 2-0.

In the West game the Lancers had goals from senior Lindsey Aufricht, sophomore Emily Leeker and freshman Samantha Martinez. Senior Melissa Lantz added two assists and senior Meg O’Connell had one assist.

Sophomore Sami Dunger and freshman Megan Link split time in goal in the first shutout.

Link played the whole game against North.

In that game, Lantz, senior Jenny Mann and freshmen Korie Klosterman and Katherine Weider all scored.

Martinez added an assist to her points total for the year and freshman Emily Brcic had her first assist.

Lantz said the team has had a lot of underclassmen step up this

year, “We have had a lot of underclassmen that have bonded [well with the team].”

Freshmen on the team include Brcic, Kelsey Calvert, Klosterman, Link, Martinez, Nina Walters and Stephanie Weider.

As one of a number of freshmen starters, Brcic is enjoying the experience.

“It’s really fun and a good experience,” she said.

Brcic says she looks up to O’Connell, Lantz and all of the seniors.

Link has a .62 goals against average, allowing just four goals in her 520 minutes so far this year.

She has played in each game so far this season and has two solo shutouts as well as one shared with Dunger.

Link also has a .882 save percentage, good for fourth in the area.

In an April 8 game against Lake Zurich, Klosterman, Rivera and senior Michelle Moody all scored to lead the team to a 3-1

victory.

Lantz also said Klosterman has been a good surprise for the team.

On April 10, Martinez scored again and Junior Amanda Ehrhardt added her first goal of the year.

Martinez had ten points, Lantz had eight and Klosterman had four going in to an April 12 game against Parkway South.

Martinez leads the team with ten points, three goals and four assists. As a team the Lancers are averaging 2.4 goals per game, fourth in the Suburban West conference and just allowing .6 goals per game, second in the Conference.

Currently the team is fifth in the conference overall trailing Oakville, Marquette, Northwest House Springs and Fox. All but Marquette are undefeated in league play while the Lancers are 2-1.

The Lancers play host to Northwest tonight and McCluer North tomorrow.

Buck said. “I am still optimistic for this season, and that is because of our experience that we have.”

Along with seniority and experience among the upperclassmen, the team also has a few newcomers that have been doing well.

“Sophomore Mark Palladino, who had just moved here from Texas, and freshman Brent Folan are all doing well,” Buck said.

Despite the team’s rocky start, one of Buck’s goals of surpassing .500 and getting into Districts, is still in reach.

“We are looking on improving on last year,” Buck said. “We still have our work cut out for us though. If we can get over .500 and get further than Districts, I will be happy.”

April is the biggest month for tennis, getting on a roll now would be a good idea.

“April is a big month for us.

We have games almost every day.

I really have no fears, I just want them to play hard.” Buck said.

•Returning the Volley. Backhanding the ball, senior John Underwood warms up for his match against Parkway South. “I didn’t play that great, but I will improve in future matches., Underwood said.

Boys tennis rebound from rough first week Alex Davis • Reporter

The tennis team has began their season with a sub par start.

But, the team opened up its season by defeating Rockwood Summit 4-3 in the March 28 match.

However, a week later, the team was defeated against the Parkway Central Colts in their second game of the year, 1-10; and then lost to the Parkway South Patriots the next day, 2-5.

“We’re not playing as well as we can,” Coach Jay Buck said.

“Right now, it’s more psychological than anything. Right now they’re [the team] pressing to hard.”

The team did get uplifted, however, when they defeated Webster Groves April 11, 5-2.

“It was nice to get a win,” Buck said. “I think it helped the team to relax and concentrate more on tennis and not letting outside distractions affect them.”

“We got some good play out of Brad Havelka [11], Scott Grubbs[12] and Tyler Wit-

zig[11],” Buck said.

“We also got some good doubles play out of Brent Folan[9] and Michael Bailey[11]; and Chad Mira[12] and Dan Olson[11],” he added.

Previous to that victory, the Lancers faced off against Parkway West, and went down 5-6, and before that, played Kirkwood; one of the top in State, and lost 9-2.

“Despite the loss, I feel that we did well considering how good Kirkwood is,” Buck said.

A lot of players this year have stepped up and made an impact for the team this year. Havelka, Grubbs and Witzig have all started out the year on a positive note for the most part.

One player who has somewhat kept a low profile thus far, is senior captain John Underwood.

“I didn’t play that great [in the first games] but I will improve in future matches,” he said.

“They just need to relax, they are letting little things miss,”

photo • John Cox

Kick Start Your Tan Today!

Student Special

Receive 10 Tans for $10 with purchase of any bottle of lotion

$5.00 Off Any Air Brush Service *Expires 05/20/06.

The Wildwood Salon (Hwy. 100 & Taylor Rd.) 2434 Taylor Rd.

636.273.1372

HOT NEW LAMPS

17539 Chesterfield Airport Road Chesterfield, MO 63005

(636) 530-9000

Tara Streck Co-Owner / Hair Designer

sports • page 17

the image

Girls track off to good start after winning meet Josh Handler • Asst. Sports Editor With a win in the Suburban ference relays.

West Conference Relays and a “(The Tiger relays and the strong performance at the Ti- Suburban West conference reger Relays at Mizzou, the Lady lays were) very good meets but Lancer track team is off to a fast there are performances yet to start in 2006. come which will be the most imAt the Tiger relays, which portant,” said Margalski. includes only relays, the team The team has set high goals placed second in the 4 x800 re- after winning Conference, dislay run by seniors Emily Baker, tricts and placing eighth in state Kelsey Henshaw, juniorAshley last season.

Hudson and senior Staci Huelat. “(The) journey means as Baker, Henshaw, Hudson and much as what we acheive if we junior Jillian Kyle placed second put everything we have into it,” in the distance medley.

Margalski added.

Coach Marty Margalski said In addition to these goals the team is also very competitive though, Margalski says that as in the sprint medley. every year a main goal is to “be Margalski was happy with the as good as we can be (and to) performance in the tiger relays grow as a team.” and says that the team was happy Margalski also said this seato win the Suburban West Con- son’s leaders will be distance

runners Baker and Henshaw, sprinters Junior Kaitlin Moore and senior Jodie Shead, middistance runners Hudson and Huelat and field event participants senior Lauren Casper and junior Shelby Krammer.

Margalski also said, “(It’s) not what you did but what you will do,” about this season.

On April 16, the Lady Lancers were supposed to host the Lady Lancer invitational.

Unfortunately the meet was cancelled before it was over because of bad weather.

The Lancers will play host to the Suburban West Championship on May 5.

-information contributed by Allyson Angle

photo • Josh Handler

•Moving Down. Practicing for the April 15 Lady Lancer Invitational, Freshman Allison Dennis works on her high jump on April 14.

Boys track team led by Blevins, Bartlesmeyer twins John Cox • Reporter The boys track and field team is looking to make a significant improvement from a year ago.

After a seventh place finish at the Suburban West Conference meet and an eighth place finish at Districts, the team hopes to be more competitive this season.

“We are going to make our presence known,” said junior Chris Viehman.

One of the key events the team hopes to qualify for State is the 4 x 800 relay. These runners

include seniors Alex and Chris Bartelsmeyer, junior Kyle Meyer, and junior Ryan Garrone. The 4 x 800 relay team placed third at the Conference Relay meet in early April.

The 4x1600 relay team placed second and the 4x200 relay placed fifth. The 300-meter hurdle relay placed third.

The team’s throwers placed first in the shot put and third in the discus.

Overall, the team finished fourth at the Conference Relay

meet. “We did the best we have done in 10 years,” said Coach Jameson Allen.

Allen’s goals for the team are, “…to compete for a Conference championship and to get guys through to State.”

Buddy Blevins expects the team to improve from last year and to place in the top five at each meet.

The team is led by two experienced sets of twins: the Bartelsmeyers Blevins. All four are returning captains from last

season’s team. “We want to prove to everyone that we’re the real deal,” said Woody Blevins. “All of our coaches are phenomenal and Coach Allen is the main reason why we’ve been successful.”

This throwers look to be a key strength and an integral part of the team’s success. Allen said discus thrower junior Joe Whittenberg, a transfer from Liberty, will be a key addition.

Sophoore Caleb Welchans will also be a key thrower, along with senior Pat Siebels. Long

Attention Seniors/Juniors Spring 2006 ACT/SAT Tutoring College instructor will provide strategies and practice items from actual tests

(314) 805-4561

4/14/2006 161

Instruction at Maryville University or Meramec C.C. Business Administration Call Dr. Jack Arnold at

distance also looks strong this season, with senior Nicholas Robinson, Garrone, Meyer, and the Bartelsmeyers and senior James Watford and sophomore Michael Izuchuku will be strong jumpers.

The team will compete in the Patriot Classic on April 27-28 at Parkway South.

“The Patriot Classic is always a good meet with good competition for us,” said Allen. “It’s usually a measuring stick to see where we’re at.”

page 18 • sports

April 21, 2006

photo • Mike Kurlowski

•Lap Count. Working hard during practice, junior Kristin Grott attempts to lower her time in the 50 freestyle. Senior Allyson Angle saidthat she believes Grott could be the key to the team’s success this year.

Angle out for season; Rodriguez says goals have changed Josh Handler • Asst. Sports Editor derclassmen have stepped up their efforts, citing frashmen Carli Bisesi and Hayley Mathews, younger sister of boys swimming star Sean Mathews, as key freshmen.

Rodriguez also, however, sees a weakness that the team has compared to previous LHS teams that she has swam for, “I believe in past years we had more team bonding. We need to be closer as a team.

Rodriguez swam the second fastest 100-freestyle time in the St. Louis area on April 4 in just 24.79 seconds.

Junior Kari Peglar, sophomores Amanda Grammar and Livi Jarboe are all on the area honor roll for their times in the 100backstroke.

Angle said the juniors will be very im-

On April 10, the Lafayette girls swim team took a big hit. Senior star Allyson Angle had surgery to repair a torn rotator cuff and will miss the rest of the season.

Junior Marisa Rodriguez, in her third varsity season realized she needed to take a leadership position on the team.

“Our goals have changed. We have to see where we can go with the team we have now,” said Rodriguez.

The team has started the season 2-0 in duel meets, beating Parkway Central and an impressive Webster Groves team.

Commenting about the Webster Groves win Rodriguez said the team was not expecting to win by a margin like the 101-85 victory that occurred.

Rodriguez also said a number of un-

“Do Something With Your Hair” * * * *

Latest Styles & Trends Colors/Highlights Up Do’s Yeah, we have stuff for you guys, too...

ALL STUDENTS $9.99 173 Long Road Next to Wildhorse Grill Chesterfield, MO 63005 (636) 536-HAIR (4247)

portant with her out for the year, but she says that everyone needs to work harder.

“Pretty much everyone has to step up.

(The) Junior Class is really strong and now Amanda Conti is the only senior going to state,” Angle said.

Angle also said she believes juniors Kristin Grott, Peglar and Rodriguez are all key parts of the team.

The loss of Angle leaves only Conti Kristy Kiefer and relay team member Chrissie Voelkel as the seniors swimming this year.

Juniors Emily Buss and Claire Myers are near the top of the area rankings in the 100-breast stroke.

Angle will be attending Alabama next year on a scholarship.

The 200 freestyle relay and the 200 medley relay are both in the top three in the area and the 400 freestyle relay is in the top ten.

On April 11, the Lancers beat Lindbergh 131-55, winning all events except for diving.

Rodriguez and Jarboe each won multiple events while Buss, Grott and Peglar also won individual events. Buss, Grott and Peglar each won events in the Webster Groves meet.

Also leading in their events are junior Jessica Eckstein, freshman Amanda Haushalter, sophomore Michelle Kristich, junior Kristin Leone, sophomore Lauren Palmer, sophomore Sarah Stumpf and freshman Shannon Toomey.

sports • page 19

the image

Volleyball off to a quick 5-1 start

photo • Mike Kurlowski

•Bumping It Up a Notch. Making sure the ball is aimed for the right place, junior Chris Kottwitz bumps the ball in practice. Kottwitz averages 2.25 digs per game.

Ryan Bueckendorf • Reporter The varsity boys volleyball team has gotten off to an impressive start, and don’t expect them to cool off any time soon.

The team sped out of the gates with a 5-1 start, second only to Marquette in the Suburban West Conference standings, and has gone 2-0 in league games. This good start has put the team’s big goal within their reach.

“We want to win Conference,” Coach Doug Ell said. “That’s the main goal for the team this season.”

Sophomore setter Tony Meier said he’s set the team’s goals at an even loftier position.

“We want to get into the Final Four for State,” he said.

The Lancers are in a good position to have the kind of season that is necessary to win the West.

Key players returning from last season’s squad include senior Max Burgess, junior Mike

Horton, senior Tim Meier and senior Steven Lancaster.

The team will need big contributions from all its players, Ell stressed, but the leadership provided by those four is necessary to guide the fresh faces on varsity this season.

“I don’t know that there’s really one. When you start talking about senior leadership, it’s really been phenomenal.” Ell said.

The Lancers are good enough and deep enough to advance should they win Conference, but Ell cautioned it was no sure thing.

“Once you get into those top four teams in the State, it’s kind of a roll of the dice,” he said.

Within Conference, their main opposition is Marquette. Meier also listed Oakville and Kirkwood as teams that could prove to be a challenge .

Oakville currently has the most wins in the Conference,

and their 6-2 overall record puts them within striking distance of Lafayette.

On a personnel level, Lafayette boasts one of the most solid teams in the Conference. Horton, Meier and senior Mike Willis all rank in the Top 10 in kills per game.

Lancaster is currently pacing the Suburban West in aces per game, with Tim Meier in second, and Mike Swigunski ranking fifth.

Tony Meier leads the Lancers in assists, and ranks third in Conference. His brother Tim is leading the Conference in blocks. S Junior Mike Swigunski and Burgess give the Lancers the top dig combo in Conference, ranking first and second in the Suburban West. The Lancers boast five of the Top Ten scorers in the area in Willis, Lancaster, Tim Meier and Swigunski.

Leonard said.

After completing eight matches the team still had some flaws they needed to work.

“Course management is the number one thing that, we don’t do well every hole and we have to work on minimizing our mistakes,” Laster said.

The team has shown much strength as well. “We all know each other and we are all good friends which helps us out on

the golf course,” Leonard said.

The team also is known for their great driving ability off the tee.

A few players Laster thought has stepped up are juniors Matt Marquart, Azam Khan and sophomore Bryan Whitman. For this being there first year on varsity they have been doing very well.

One thing that the team has always struggled with is consistency.

“Consistency has always been

a problem, nothing practice can’t fix,” Leonard said.

“Some goals I’ve set for the team are to be all Conference, to get better as the year progresses, become more consistent and lower the scores,” Laster said.

As the year moves on this team hopes to become a dominating force with their long ball off the tee and their amazing putting. there next big matches are aganist Eureka and Parkway South.

Golf rolls the ball perfectly for successful start to season Bobby Mortimer • Sports Editor As the temperature gets warmer and the wind starts to blow the boys golf team is out playing on their home course.

The team this year has started off to a good speed by winning their first few matches. One success that has led to their achievements is their putting ability.

“Our putting has been our number one strength this year,” Coach Gaylen Laster said.

Senior Tim Leonard has been the top leader on the team. Leonard will be attending Millikin University on a golf scholarship.

“To go to State and finish in the top 20,” is the goal Leonard has set each year for himself.

Right behind Leonard you have your number two and three guy with juniors Brian Holthouse and Tony Bono.

“Tony Bono has stepped a lot this year with his consistency,”

Free*

1 Week Membership For you and a friend or you may exchange for a special first visit discount

Curves Checklist To The Successful Exercise Program

• Busy Schedule - only takes 30 minutes • Cardiovascular/Aerobic Training - burns body fat • Strength Training - permanent results • Fun - will stick to the program • Women Only - comfortable, caring environment

Call Today!

(636) 273-1000 16427 Village Plaza View Drive Wildwood, MO 63011 Coupon Expires 05/31/2006 *Offer good on first visit, min. 18 yrs. old, new members only, 1 coupon per person, may not be combined with any other special

page 20 • sports

April 21, 2006

Boys rank first in Suburban West Conference Sarah Southerland • Reporter The Lancers completed last year’s season with a record of 149, losing in the District Championship to Parkway South.

With several returning starters and promising newcomers, the Lafayette Varsity baseball team has high hopes of extending their post-season playing time.

The Lancers senior-dominated lineup has proved to be successful, as the Lancers start the season with a 3-1 record.

The Lancers had their first game March 29 against Rockwood Summit.

Junior Mark Davidson pitched a five inning shutout that was called early due to Lafayette’s 11-0 lead. Davidson kept Summit off the scoreboard with seven strikeouts while Lancer defense was nearly flawless, only committing to one error.

Offensively, the Lancers wreaked havoc on Summit’s defense with an eight run inning in the bottom of the fourth.

Seniors Phil McCormick and Brian Moderhack both went 2-3 at the plate and senior Casey Shaw hit the Lancer’s first home run of the season.

The Lancers lost their second game of the season to number one ranked Eureka.

Starting on the mound for

photo • Mike Kurlowski

•Going Long. During the Lafayette vs. Lindbergh game, senior Phil McCormick demolished two balls deep to right field for two homeruns. McCormick finished off the day with two RBIs and led the team to a 8-3 win.

the Lancers was McCormick, who despite the loss, still managed to strikeout seven batters.

The Lancers were down 51 when Moderhack and Davidson hammered a home run apiece to trim the gap before the team fell back 10-4.

Despite the unfortunate loss, the Lancers quickly recovered with a 4-2 victory over DeSmet and a 12-0 victory against Kirkwood.

The Lancers faced Kirkwood on April 5. Senior Matt Neumann went 3-4 with a double and triple

while Davidson pitched another solid five innings allowing only one hit and striking out six.

A host of Lancers saw action in the abbreviated affair as an early lead gave them room to experiment with the lineup.

The Lancers were on the

road again April 7-8 in Sedalia, Missouri. Miller described the stadium as a “throw back to the 1930sor 1940s” with a “great atmosphere to play ball.”

The Lancers are currently ranked first in the Suburban West Conference overall, offensively, and defensively.

“The Suburban West is always tough. Anybody can beat anybody. We try to be as competitive as anyone and take it one game at a time., Miller said.

The Lancers look to take it one game at a time with the ultimate goal of being a State Champion.

Some of the player leaders for this year have been Graft leads the Suburban West with six stolen bases this year. Davidson leads the Suburban West with an unheard of 1.84 ERA Some of the strengths for the team so far have been they’re excellent play on defense.

“We play good defense, we run the bases well, we have good pitching,” Miller said.

Aside on field performance, the senior leaders have made an impact off the field. “[About senior leaders] They are very fine young men with great character, put great effort out,” Miller said.

On April 25, the team squares off against Howell Central, and then against Fox on April 26.

The new surroundings at Busch Stadium

photo • Mr. Bill Senti

photo • Mr. Bill Senti

•Moving Down. Multiple color scoreboards allow for fans to keep track of pitch counts, lineup changes and scores from out of town games. There is also an option of sending a text message to be put on the scoreboard.

“

I was really surprised because it looked a whole lot nicer then what I expected.

- Bryant Vander Weerd, 12

”

“

photo • Mr. Bill Senti

•New Look. (upper right) Walking up to the new stadium, you pass wonderful brick work on the outside of the stadium. (Bottom right) From behind home plate, the view on the scoreboard fills up the oufield with a span of 40-120 ft.

I thought it was amazing. All of the views are greatly improved. I liked the outfield and the details.

-Mr. Bill Senti

”