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Lafayette High School 17050 Clayton Rd. Wildwood, MO 63011
Just Too
Nov. 5, 2010 Vol. 42, No. 3
www.lhsimage.com
Much?
Too much reading. Too much homework. Too much work. Too many practices. Too many family commitments. Too many meetings. Too many games. Too many college applications. Too many essays. Too many responsibilities. Too many tests. Too many late nights. Too much caffeine. Too many screens. Too many teachers. Too much drama. Too many texts. Too many quizzes. Too many worksheets. Too many tournaments. Too many games. It’s just too much.
2 News ON [theTHEImage COVER ]:
Nov. 5, 2010
Due to the high academic expectations at Lafayette, students often feel overwhelmed with homework. Along with their homework, students have to balance part-time jobs, sports and extracurricular activities, leaving them little time for much-needed sleep. (photo illustration by Alex Vanderheyden)
Image Staff
What’s Inside:
[People & Policies] Chelsea Coleman..........Editor in Chief
UP IN SMOKE: Hookah bar trend has hit St. Louis … page 6
Max Thoman....................................Managing Editor Mia Schenone.............................................Webmaster Kara Campbell.........................................News Editor Alicia Mestre ...........................................News Editor Caleb Cavarretta.................................Opinion Editor Leanne Beasley .................................. Feature Editor Maddie Johnson ................................ Feature Editor Adam Harris .......................... Entertainment Editor Christine Jackson ................................ Sports Editor Gian Wessel .......................................... Sports Editor Grace Bueckendorf . ...................... Asst. Webmaster Jessica Zadoks .............................. Business Manager Alyssa Knowling ....................... Marketing Director Santi Diz.............................................................. Artist Mrs. Nancy Y. Smith, MJE ........................... Adviser
COMING TO AN END: Fall sports are wrapping up … page 14 & 15
Renaissance looks to offer new incentives Maddie Henning / Reporter The outside of Lafayette has undergone many changes over the last few school years, but now Principal John Shaughnessy wants to bring some changes to the inside of the building for Renaissance students. Shaughnessy’s plans for Renaissance focus on two specific directions: recognition and incentives for those students who are Renaissance members. The first idea promotes the acknowledgment of Renaissance in the school environment. In the entryway by the Welcome Center, Shaughnessy plans to have, “three glass display cases, one with the history and mission statement of Renaissance, [the] second one would have all of our sponsors in our Renaissance program [and the] third one’s going to have all the programs we offer here that have to do with Renaissance.” In addition, a mural will be painted by students to increase visual recognition of Renaissance. Part two increases recognition of Renaissance by notifying students and their families that the student is a Renaissance member. Renaissance students received a small card that said, ‘Congratula-
Staff:
Kelley Bauer, Hannah Boxerman, Dominic Corvington, Ashlyn Goldston, Sarah Greenlee, Maddie Henning, Sean McIntyre and McKayla Treat
Information:
The Image is published nine times a year by the Newspaper Production Class. Subscriptions are $30. Free issues are distributed on campus. The 20092010 Image received a rating of First Class with three marks of distinction from the National Scholastic Press Association. lhsimage.com received a rating of All-American with four marks of distinction.
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.
Contact Us:
Located in Room 137A at Lafayette High School, 17050 Clayton Rd., Wildwood, MO 63011. Our phone number is (636) 733-4118 and our e-mail address is smithnancy@rockwood.k12.mo.us or visit on the web at: www.lhsimage.com
Policies:
A complete explanation of the Rockwood School District Policies and Regulations concerning official student publications and the policies and procedures used by the Image staff can be found on the website www.lhsimage.com under the About Us tab.
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tions, you are a Renaissance card holder,’ and detailed when Renaissance academic credit cards would be distributed. A letter was also sent to families to explaining to them that their child is a Renaissance member and the program. The second plan is to begin implementing the incentives students receive as members of Renaissance. Shaughnessy is considering offering discounts for various events. To receive any of the potential discounts “students must show their [student] ID, and on the back of their [student] ID it’s got to have their gold, sliver, or bronze sticker,” Shaughnessy said. Other incentives will be directed towards allowing Renaissance members special privileges within the building. The current incentive area may be converted into a Renaissance lounge. Renaissance students would be allowed to eat lunch in that area. They are also looking at opening up the courtyard for Renaissance students to eat lunch. It is hoped these programs will be put into action this school year. However, due to the recent Rockwood budget cuts, the
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To recognize Renaissance students and their accomplishments, a Lancer Shout Outs board has been added to the hallway that connects the Commons and Main Entrance. (Photo by Kara Campbell) question of money arises with any new ideas. In response to this problem, Shaughnessy responded, “Anything I propose is money that would be coming to Lafayette” “If I give Renaissance kids a 20 percent discount on parking passes then what that means to Lafayette is that we would receive a certain percent less into that parking lot fund,” he said. Shaughnessy pointed out, that LHS has parents and sponsors
providing a source of revenue for the school, so Renaissance funds can be used to cover any deficits in other budgets. The goal of these additions is to provide incentives so that students will want to become a member of Renaissance. Shaughnessy said, “In addition to all the things that kids get from outside companies, we’re trying to do some more within our building to reward kids for good grades.”
Money Woes:
News 3
RSD attempts to solve budget problems Sarah Greenlee / Reporter The Rockwood Board of Education is desperately trying to find ways to cut spending and raise money for the 2011-2012 school year. Due to the recent poor economy, the district has been struggling to stay within their budget. The board is considering options within three areas to help balance the budget: revenue replacement, cost reductions and fund balance reduction. The board held three stakeholder input meetings to gather ideas and opinions from the community about what they think the board should do concerning the budget. The meetings predominantly consisted of Rockwood staff members. At these meetings, the tables of 5-10 people had sessions to discuss ideas they had for cutting the budget or gathering more revenues. In addition, each Rockwood staff member was invited to attend a session in their school where officials presented information about the budget and asked teachers and staff members for ideas of where to save money. Principal John Shaughnessy said, “Because we’ve already cut over $12 million over the last two years in the district budget, there’s very little room to operate with regards to cuts.” He added, “So we have to have community input/stakeholder input in decisions like this because we need some help from people who have investments in our school districts to help us find ways to help save money without having a negative effect on
Infographs courtesy of Rockwood Communications Department our programs or staffing.” “But at the same time understanding we need to find a way to keep our district from operating in a deficit,” Shaughnessy said. “That’s what the stakeholder meetings are about. To find ways that maybe we’re not thinking of, or looking at.” Some ideas mentioned by those at the community meetings included early retirement incentives, energy efficiency, transportation changes, cutting the scheduled ACT for juniors, rearranging schedules, cutting parking attendants and resource teachers and eliminating the Center for Creative Learning. Also, many community members are in support of the tax increase. Physical education teacher Denise Meyer spoke in favor of the
tax increase at a stakeholder meeting. However, the board knows community members are already having to tighten their belts, and believes it may be hard to gain enough support to implement a tax increase. “[A tax increase] would be a very natural occurrence and it would be one that we would receive a very positive impact from right away,” Shaughnessy said. “Long term it may have a negative effect. If we turn around and ask the community for a tax increase and a bond issue comes up in two to three years to help capital improvement, I’m not sure that would sit well with our community at this time,” Shaughnessy said. Rockwood’s operating tax levy ranks 14th out of 22 school districts.
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The board has hired a company to survey the community by telephone. They have constructed a survey of about 50 questions and will call Rockwood homes and businesses until they get enough answers to produce accurate data. Already, driver education has been changed as well as Zero Hour classes to reduce expenditures. Shaughnessy said, “Specifically at Lafayette what I’ve asked the Department Chairs to do is to be very cautious and aware of what they’re spending.” He continued, “Really make it applicable to those necessity items that we have to have in order to continue operating our programs at the level we do.”
He added, “[We’ve been] looking at limiting field trips, looking at students having to pay a little bit of money for field trip buses, maybe consolidating some of our budgets, maybe being able to carry over some money from the previous years to keep some of our money that’s already in that balance.” After the survey has been completed, the board will be presented with the data and will discuss possible solutions, keeping in mind the input from the community.
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4 News
Nov. 5, 2010
News Briefs
Testing changes
CellSafety
EOC eliminates constructive response items Alicia Mestre / News Editor To assess knowledge and skills gained during the school year, students take regular tests, final exams and occasionally a state-mandated End of Course Exam (EOC). But, this May, students in 10th Grade Language Arts, Algebra I, Government and Biology will no longer be required to take the writing portion of the EOC. Due to the expenses of hiring graders to read over the constructed response section of the EOC, this portion has been cut. According to the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, “Omitting this costly component of the state assessment program will allow the Department to proceed with state assess-
ment within the available budget.” “I’m surprised to hear that this part of the tests is being cut,” Associate Principal Renee Trotier said. “Missouri was one of the first states to add constructed response and essay questions to their state tests.” She added, “I think it was a good move to have [the writing portion]. Standardized testing is only a snapshot of what a student can do at any given time.” Trotier continued, “Having the constructed response portion adds validity to the assessment. It’s a more authentic task than a forced choice response.” However, not everyone agrees it is a major loss. Language arts teacher Melissa Schumacher said, “Personally, if a standardized test can assess
the same thing with fewer questions and less disruption to teachers’ and students’ lives, I’m all for it.” She continued, “We have plenty of other assessments, including the ACT writing portion, with which to assess a student’s writing.” On classroom procedures following this change, Trotier said, “I do not anticipate that it will change instruction in our classrooms at all. Our teachers do not simply ‘teach to the test’... Our teachers are not going to stop teaching writing because it’s not tested on the state test.” Schumacher said teachers should still prepare for the test because, “standardized tests, like death and taxes, are a part of life...[but] as long as we continue to [achieve high scores], we have nothing to worry about.”
AP Tests to adjust scoring for multiple choice, writing exams Alicia Mestre / News Editor
Previously similar to the scoring of the SAT, Advanced Placement (AP) tests used to deduct points for every wrong answer. Starting with the tests taken in the spring of this school year, however, AP tests across the country will no longer be doing this. Instead, no points will be given for wrong answers, but no points will be deducted either. “I personally believe that it is a good decision by the AP Board,” junior AP student AJ Nobs said. He continued, “I will feel much less stressed when answering question and now there is no negative risk for taking chances.” Nobs added, “This way I can show the judge my true ability in whatever the test is in by taking
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risks on sections that I am not sure of; where last year I might have held back and gone only with what I knew for a fact and skipped over any [questions] that caused me problems.” While this may seem like a positive for test takers, some teachers and students do not think it will make much of a difference in students’ overall scores on the exam. AP Calculus teacher Jeri Heth said, “The final scores are determined by comparing the scores of all students who have taken each test,” She continued,“Though the overall points scored may go up, I don’t think there will be an effect on the [top scores],” AP Psychology teacher Susan Glenn agreed. She said, “I don’t think it will significantly affect their scores. [However] I am fine with the change.”
Nobs said, “The system they already use is based off of a curve and because this change is across the board, the curve will move up in percentile but if you would have gotten a four, then you still will get a four.” Heth said, “For this reason, I also don’t think it will lead more students to take [AP tests].” AP Literature teacher David Choate said, “Scores will be skewed because [students] won’t be missing as many points, and [there will be] less margin of error on the AP Lit writing exam.” The tests will still be equally as difficult as they were previous years. Nobs concluded, “Anyone taking the test now would likely have taken the test anyway.”
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Starting this year, four Renaissance students will be picked by each grade level principal per quarter to receive “Free Sandwiches for a Quarter” from Penn Station and “Free Burritos for a Quarter” from Qdoba Mexican Grill. The only requirement is the student must be in Renaissance. Other than that, the selection process is left up to the grade level principal.
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Feature 5
[the]
image Homecoming 2010
Big city, bright lights, big memories
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During the Powder Puff Game, Male Escadrille showcases its talents during halftime to the enjoyment of the Senior Women. “The fact that I’ll never perform a dance like that in front of such a big crowd again made it a really memorable experience,” senior Male Escadrille member Max Zaun said.
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Since 7,000 cans were collected for The Circle of Concern canned food drive, Activities Director Steve Berry was chosen to pie Principal John Shaugnessy in the face during the Pep Assembly. “I thought it was a pretty good day at work,“ Berry joked.
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While waiting for the Homecoming Parade to begin, juniors Colleen Cole, Katie Czolgosz, Sarah Martinez, Caroline Quinn and Monica Winkel prepare to shower the crowd with candy.
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During the grade level lunch competitions, representatives from each class dive into their pie tins full of mashed potatoes. The lunch activities were sponsored by the STUCO and the Community Service class.
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After defeating the juniors to secure a Homecoming victory for the Senior Class, Assistant Principal Tim Jones joins senior Kyle Woodsmall and the seniors during the Tug-of-War battle against the faculty.
Photos By Ali D’Antonio, Tayylor Stewart and Alex Vanderheyden
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6 Feature
Nov. 5, 2010
Smoke on the Water:
Chelsea Coleman / Editor in Chief To some a hookah might be seen as an exotic smoking contraption from foreign cultures. But this originally Turkish and Middle Eastern tradition has now taken root in America. Now, hookah smoking is considered to be a trendy pastime with hookah bars and lounges opening and thriving in St. Louis. The use of these water pipes is rising in smoke shops and at local restaurants and bars as well. Local trading company, Earthbound, Assistant Manager Lucas Montane further explained hookah’s origin and appeal. “A hookah is a Turkish tobacco water pipe, very traditional in Turkish and Middle Eastern culture. We’ve sold [the hookahs] for the four months we’ve been open. We’ve sold quite a few,” he said.
Ashlyn Goldston / Reporter
Earthbound sells hookahs that range in price from $15-90. Montane has a wide range of customers, though he has seen a definite increase in purchases. “At the end of summer there are definitely more college students buying [the hookahs]. They want their big exciting hookah for their college days,” he said. Montane continued, “But we do see some older people come in and they’re looking for [a hookah]. I’ll ask if they have any questions and they’re like ‘Oh, no. I used to smoke hookah back in the day.’” After spending time in Paris this past summer, where hookah bars are abundant, senior Morgan Gray returned to the states where the hookah trend was surfacing. “I went to Paris and they had tons of hookah bars. When I got home I saw my brother had a hookah out and then I had an impulse buy and brought a hookah soon after,” she said. Further explaining the appeal of owning a hookah, Gray said, “[Hookah smoking] is a social thing really. If you don’t have anything to do on a Friday night then you can always bring out the hookah. I’ll probably whip [the hookah] out maybe once every two or three weeks when I’m hanging out with my friends.” Gray has encountered varied reactions about her hookah. “When I tell people I own a hookah they’re
Hookah trend gaining popularity
surprised because it’s not common, but I’ve never had a sour reaction to my face. People in general are pretty laid back about it,” Gray said. She continued, “I actually think people are becoming more accepting of [hookah smoking] because it’s a better alternative to smoking cigarettes or cigars.” Those interested in partaking in this trend have also turned to local hookah bars, like Zayna’s Café and Hookah Lounge located in Des Peres. Zayna’s Manager John Rutledge said “Attending [hookah bars] has more than quadrupled in America over the past year.” Rutledge explained his perspective of the hookah bar’s appeal, he said, “The whole idea of a social environment to do something out of the ordinary and to experience something fun along with meeting with new people,” But he also added, “The only high school students are seniors because [hookah] isn’t legal until age 18.” Rutledge said the Zayna’s most popular flavors include apple, peach, watermelon and strawberry with one bowl of tobacco usually lasting anywhere from 45 minutes to an hour and a half. Rutledge also shared why he believes that the hookah bar experience is more appealing over using one’s own hookah. “[The customer] don’t have to deal with the hassle of repairing and setting up the hookah pipe because it is a long and hard process.
Hookah really is a true art form,” he said. But no matter how popular hookahs ever become in the American culture they still will be heavily embedded the originating cultures. Senior Samiah Khalili has been around hookahs all her life coming from an Iranian household. “The hookah originated in from the Middle East where my family is from so to me having a hookah is normal, not scandalous” she said. Khalili described the commonality of hookahs in within her own culture, she said, “To my family [a hookah] culturally acceptable, it’s not a big deal to have a hookah in the house. All my parents’ friends and our relatives have hookahs in their houses.” She continued, “[My family] uses the hookah socially usually, like if they have close friends over at the end of the night they’ll get out the hookah.” Khalili said she has noticed the recent rise in popularity in hookah bars and the increase of interest others in her family’s hookah. She said, “Before high school no one at school had ever heard about a hookah. But now everyone knows what a hookah is and it seems like everywhere you go there is a hookah bar. Once people find out I own a hookah they want to come over and use it. I’ve even had people offered to buy [the hookah] off me.” Khalili concluded by saying, “To me, using a hookah is like what social drinking is in the American culture.”
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Feature 7
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Hairy Situations:
Some extraordinary heads of hair deck Lafayette’s halls Kelley Bauer / Reporter
Hairstyles are as different as the people who wear them. Throughout pop culture, celebrities have continually been recognized by their unique hair trends: Lady Gaga’s hair bow, Rihanna’s fierce short cut, Snooki’s poof and, of course, Kate Gosselin hair makeover to name a few. Whether it’s a movie star or an average student, people use their hair as a way of standing out from the crowd. Most people know sophomore Cannon Baldwin as the kid with the afro-inspired hair. In fact, he has come to enjoy the originality of his all natural hair. “I’m the only sophomore and maybe the only student in the school with my hair grown out this way,” Baldwin said. He’s even received multiple nicknames, including: Troy Polamalu (Steelers football player), Slash (Guns N’ Roses guitarist), Bob Dylan, Fluffy and Walking Tree, all because of his do. While Baldwin said he doesn’t plan on changing his style any time soon, he has actually did cut it over Halloween weekend. “I would only get it cut for job purposes. My hair hasn’t truly been cut since the summer of 2008,” he said. The attention Baldwin attracts from his hair occasionally provokes questions. “People ask me if I hide things in my hair,”
he said. “So once in a while I’ll take my friend’s pencil and hide it in my hair for good laughs.” Although he likes standing out from the crowd, Baldwin finds that his hairstyle does have some downfalls. “My hair gets in my eyes during band practice, guitar class and on windy days,” Baldwin said. Though his curly locks are an identifiable trait, he recently shaved them off entirely. Junior Kyle Witzig also has naturally unique hair. He claims his curly red hair resembles professional snowboarder Shaun White and former T.V. personality Carrot Top. Even while driving, Witzig hears people call out “Carrot Top” at him. “My hair is a trade mark because everyone recognizes me everywhere I go it’s really hard to miss. Everyone knows me by my hair,” Witzig said. Like Baldwin and Witzig, sophomore Tess Olson takes pride in her long locks of hair which reaches down to her mid back. “I love my hair even if it’s inconvenient sometimes,” Olson said. “I’ll probably never have to deal with my hair thinning out, because it’s so thick.” Her “mermaid-like” hair also proves to be difficult to manage at times. “I can’t do much to it, because it takes five hours to be completely dry. It never holds curls and never stays straight so I just let it do its own thing,” Olson said.
She continued, “It’s annoying when I run because I have to put it up in a really tight bun so it’s not sticking to me.” Even though Olson has had long hair most of her life, she has given to Locks of Love three times. However, she prefers to keep it long for now. “I don’t think I’m going to do Locks of Love again for awhile because I don’t like my hair short,” Olson said. Olson and others with unique styles seem to view their hair as their crowning glory.
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1. A modern day Rapunzel, Tess Olson attempts to manage her long locks but is ultimately forced to leave it be. 2. One of the few Lancer guys rockin’ a fro, Cannon enjoys his unique style that separates him from the rest of the student body. 3. Known as Carrot Top, Kyle Witzig’s curly red ‘do is unmistakably one of a kind.
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8 Feature
Nov. 5, 2010
National Adoption month showcases student beginnings Leanne Beasley / Feature Editor It’s a unique way to start a family. Celebrities do it, politicians do it and so do everyday Americans. Six in 10 people claim to have some sort of personal experience with it. It’s adoption, of course. Junior Laura Wade was adopted at about six months old from an orphanage in Wuhan, China. “They think I was born in April, and I was adopted some time in October. I was left at a police station in China and then I was taken to the orphanage,” Wade said. As unique as being adopted is, Wade has another specialty. Her older sister, Katie, Class of 2010, is also adopted. “I definitely see how different me and my sister are and my parents now that I’m older. But I kind of think its better this way because I have truly developed as an individual,” Laura said. Katie doesn’t see her adoption as anything exceptional. Her nonchalance dates back to when she was young. “It’s not a big deal. It was when we were younger though, because Laura didn’t want her friends to know we were adopted, whereas I didn’t care,” Katie said. Katie and Laura’s mother, Susan Lore, saw adoption as a doorway to recreating that big family feeling. “My husband and I come from large families and although they may be difficult to live with, it is important to have family,” she said. The first years with two adopted children was nothing out of the ordinary for Susan Lore and husband, John. “The first couple of years with two kids was the same as for any other parent that has two small kids, close in age. Laura had some
health challenges at first. Katie did too, but the issues were different. But this is no different from other kids when they are young,” Lore said. The sisters said they rarely think about being adopted, but it has impacted them. “It’s pretty normal being adopted but sometimes when I’m in a slump I think of it in more negative terms as in I was unwanted,” Laura explained. On the other hand, Laura’s feelings on her adoption go beyond her love for her parents and sister. “I put a lot of pressure on myself to excel in everything I do and to seize every opportunity I get in life because I know that my parents basically saved my life and that I am indebted to them for everything” Laura said. Gifted Education counselor Caroline Pogordnik adopted her children from Guatemala to avoid passing on her husband’s Crohn’s disease. Pogordnik and her husband worked through the long process with an agency in Clayton. “We had tons of paperwork and were fingerprinted by the FBI and had a home study done by a social worker. That’s the entire before process. Then they are ready to take a referral.” However, Pogordnik wouldn’t trade it for anything. “It’s a great way to create your family, but it’s very time extensive and pretty costly,” Pogordnik said. Lore agrees it is an exceptional choice for families. “We would recommend adoption to everyone,” she said.
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Enjoying the coolness of fall, Laura and Katie Wade lounge in a pile of leaves. Both girls were adopted 20 months apart but Laura’s process was longer due to Chinese policy overlook. (Photo courtesy Laura Wade)
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Feature 9
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CHECK MATE
Shapiro claims title of Missouri Chess Champion Max Thoman / Managing Editor All hail the king. Eleven years after beginning his chess career, junior Jay Shapiro now holds both the Missouri’s Class D and Missouri’s 11th Grade chess championship titles. However, champions are not born overnight and Shapiro admits the journey was a long one. “I learned how to play when I was five and on vacation at Virginia Beach,” Shapiro said, “Me and my brother found a chess board in the house’s closet and since we didn’t know how to play, we made up our own rules until our dad taught us how to play.” Since then, Shapiro’s chess playing career flourished. “By the age of seven I was beating my dad consistently and then my mom sent me to chess camp,” he said, “After that, I just kind of stopped.” By seventh grade, Shapiro returned to the game and joined his schools chess team where he began his competitive career. “It was a big group of really close people, about eight of us consistently went to tournaments to compete,” Shapiro said. Yet, at Lafayette Shapiro has no school chess team for his competitive outlet. “I am the Lafayette Chess Team,” Shapiro joked. Thus, Shapiro’s individual career began. Normally, Shapiro said he attends four to five tournaments a year, however, after his recent championships, he decided to attend at least 10 this year, some of which have already occurred. “I went to Nationals in Chicago this year, but it didn’t go how I wanted. My mom got sick and we had to come home early,” Shapiro said, “I also went to Mizzou and got first place in the 11th Grade division.”
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According to the Missouri Chess Association’s bulletin Shapiro’s Class D championship did not come easy. The bulletin stated, “Jay Shapiro was facing an uphill climb after being the round two upset victim of Mark Johnson. This loss left him chasing the leaders the rest of the way. He came back by beating fellow D players in rounds three and four, improving his own score and pushing his rivals down the chart.” The bulletin continued, “By round five he was sitting in second, with the leader, Tess Butcher, only a half point ahead. The pairings pitted the two against each other, meaning Shapiro had to win, while Butcher took the title with a win or draw.” “The game between the leaders didn’t disappoint. In Jay Shapiro fact, as the hours rolled by and the room slowly cleared out, it was eventually the last game remaining. Both players gave their all, using nearly the full time allowed,” the bulletin explained. In the end, however, it was Shapiro who was left to be kinged. The bulletin said, “Butcher threw in the towel and Shapiro emerged as the D Class Champ.” Even with this accomplishment under his belt Shapiro remained humble, saying, “I guess I was excited.” He concluded, “But seriously, it’s not about the title for me. It’s about playing the game, about meeting people and about testing mental abilities.”
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10 Feature
No shave November:
Nov. 5, 2010
Boys share reasons for participating in annual event Caleb Cavarretta / Opinions Editor Alyssa Knowling / Reporter To some, it may seem like a sign of laziness and a lack of basic hygiene, but to many the phenomenon of “No Shave November” is a symbol of freedom and a chance to take a break from the daily routine of shaving. Originating in American colleges, the tradition has developed into many aspects of American culture, whether it is in schools, sports or even the work place. While there is no definite origin to the tradition, it has resonated with many men. These three students are participating in this event, and we will be tracking their progress weekly during the month on lhsimage. com.
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To see their weekly facial hair growth transformation go to:
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Senior Nico D’Antonio is participating in “No Shave November” to continue tradition and take a break from shaving.
Senior Khalfani Mar’na is participating in “No Shave November” for the experience and just for the fun of the event.
Q: Why are you participating in this event? “It is kind of a Lafayette tradition. Seniors have done it before, and now it is our turn. Shaving is not fun, so if I can find an excuse to get out of it, I am going to take it.” Q: What are your plans for the end of the month? “Who knows, I might do something crazy. I am going to leave it as kind of a surprise.”
Q: Why are you participating in this event? “I’ve done it twice before. I did it sophomore year, then junior year and now this year. Everyone does it and it’s kind of just fun.” Q: What are your plans for the end of the month? “At the end of the month, when I shave, I’m going to just play with it. We’ll just have to see what I do with my beard.”
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Junior Jacob Monash tried participating in “No Shave November” last year, but Monash said after two weeks, “It looked disgusting so I shaved it.” Q: Why are you participating in this event? “I want my beard to be longer than my hair, because I just buzzed it.” Q: What are your plans at the end of the month? “Well if my hair grows out, I’ll give myself mutton chops for a day.”
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LHS ‘celebrities’ dish on teen years “When I was 17, my best friends and I decided to TP my ex-boyfriend, put Saran-Wrap and Crisco on his front door, and throw beans into his yard. We didn’t get in significant trouble. However, we did get in trouble when the beans sprouted into plants.” -Jennifer Keillor, science
Hannah Boxerman / Reporter
MTV’s hit show, When I Was 17, offers viewers a rare glimpse into the pasts of the stars, reassuring the mostly teenage audience that these celebrities were once teenagers themselves. Teachers, the most well-known figures of high school life, were also teenagers once. Students, however, may view teachers as unable to relate to students today. Some teachers find this attitude amusing. “I always had my white mustache,” science teacher Randy Seagrist jokes. “Even when I was a teenager.” The high-jinks and anecdotes of the staff’s adolescent years prove just the oppositte: these teachers were indeed once 17.
“When I was 17, I won a contest at Pizza Hut to be on the Nickelodeon show Do uble Dare, which was filming at Union Station. It was so much fun. Slime really doesn’t have a taste. Also, the seniors used to call me ‘The Knob.’ Ho wever, they never explained wh y.”
ost 17, I spent m s a w I n e h isW “ lub called M c a in e m ti of my ity, in St. Louis c ts h ig N i p ip siss ands alternative b listening to e mosh jumped in th s y a lw a I . y pla in my unds of me pit, all 95 po I was, . Once, there ts o o b t a b en com eart out, wh h le tt li y m moshing st a ressed again I ended up p man. It was ss e tl ir sh , ty a large, swe unpleasant.” licato-Faw, -Dawn Inde rts language a
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ds 17, my frien s a w I n e h “W d to play a and I decide e of our girlprank on on . We wasn’t there o h w s d n ie fr my to put a dum were going r so that under her ca her ulled out of when she p ’d e’d think she driveway, sh y a . On the w hit someone d , we strappe to her house [to in a seatbelt y m m u d e th e]. ring the driv protect it du r t pulled ove When we go r e e, the offic by the polic e ummy as on d e th d te n cou of us.” yer, math -Donna Me
“When I was 17, I auditioned for the lead in our mus ical Cinderella to play the prince . I could not sing or act worth a crap . The part was for a tenor, and I w as baritone at best. Only one other fellow auditioned, a teno r, who could sing a little better than I could. But since Cinderel la sings about a prince who is tall with dark wavy hair, I got the part since I was tall with dark wavy ha ir and the tenor was short and blon de. I am sure the audience suffe red a great deal because of that.” -Todd Decker, scie nce
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Freshman Josh Davis is involved in JROTC and gets around two hours of homework every night from his classes. After school he marches for JROTC and when he gets home he starts his homework. To manage his time, Davis said, “I just do the hardest things first and then work from there.”
News 13
Students feel stress of school, activities Kara Campbell / News Editor
McKayla Treat / Reporter
Lafayette High School is known for its high academic standards and high achieving students. Administrators, teachers and parents encourage students to excel academically, to join a club, to play a sport and to keep up with activities outside of school. As academic standards have increased over the years, the demand for the amount of time students spend on school work has grown as well. It adds up to a generation of students with huge demands on their time both in and out of school. There is pressure to maintain good grades and also be involved in a variety of extra activities to build a strong college application, The National Education Association and the National Parent Teacher Association recommend adding 10 minutes of homework per night incrementally with each grade level. That means freshmen should have 90 minutes, sophomores 100 minutes, juniors 110 minutes and seniors 120 minutes of homework each night. Still, many students the Image spoke with said they had much more than that on average. The balancing act between completing the necessary homework while still staying involved in activities, athletics and part-time jobs can be overwhelming and prioritizing all of it is challenging to even the most organized students. Some teachers, though, believe academics should be a student’s first priority. AP Government teacher Lori Zang said, “Aside from occasional water breaks, I think students should do homework from 3:30 p.m. until they go to bed.” On the other hand, Personal Finance teacher Alison Harris helps to lighten students homework load. Harris doesn’t give regular homework, but once a semester she assigns an interview assignment, “Other than [the interview assignment],” she said, “everything can be completed within the class hour.” Harris continued, “I understand that students have homework for other classes, and I see no need for homework as long if they are meeting the standards for my class. If they need extra practice, have absences or don’t use their class time wisely, then they may have homework.” Zang expects her students to spend about 40 minutes to an hour on the eight to ten pages of reading she assigns each night. “I think that’s reasonable though,” Zang said, “It’s a college level class. If you pass
K R D E o There’s no time... In school, freshman Odessa Magafas is involved in Key Club and STUCO, and she is in two honors classes along with ALAR/P. She does three to four hours of homework a night, much due to ALAR/P. In order to get all of her homework completed on time, Magafas said, “I organize my assignment notebook and I have good time management.”
Nov. 5, 2010
Sophomore Steph Campbell plays volleyball in and out of school and is a member of Venturing Crew, OSEP and Sophomore Advisory. In order to balance all of her activities with school work, Campbell said, “I don’t procrastinate and I just get everything done back-to-back-toback. I basically don’t take breaks.”
the AP exam, you don’t have to take it in college.” She added, “I expect students to put in the effort because we never want to be the minimum.” College Admissions Specialist Christopher Ramsey agrees with Zang. “Academics goes first without saying, but students should allow themselves time to be involved at LHS.” Unfortunately, some parents find that their children’s amount of homework also affects them. Sophomore Kathleen Newcomer’s mother Nancy Newcomer said, “When [Kathleen] is staying up late working on homework so are we [my husband and I].” Last year half of Kathleen’s homework load was from Advanced Language Arts Research and Presentation (ALAR/P). Nancy was hoping ALAR/P would prepare Kathleen for college, yet she said, “Any course that offers research or presentation skills prepares you for college, but I don’t think it needed to be as time intensive.” But grades aren’t the only things students need to keep up with, they also have after school activities, sports, clubs and jobs they must learn to balance with school. In order to get all their work done, some students have resulted to multi-tasking. And, according to Claudia Wallis of Time magazine, we have become the Multitasking Generation. In Wallis’s article she claimed, “Decades of research indicate that the quality of one’s output and depth of thought deteriorate as one attends to ever more tasks. Some are concerned about the disappearance of mental downtime to relax and reflect.” However, Ramsey said multi-tasking is good preparation for students to succeed in the future. He said, “Balancing school, work, and/or extra-curricular activities in high school is great practice for college and life as an adult. While grades, curriculum and standardized test scores will be the first components colleges evaluate for admission, they do put value on a student who is balanced and well-rounded.” Ramsey also advises students about ways to not over schedule. He said, “Students should get involved in activities they have a genuine interest in. Don’t sign up for numerous clubs just to put them down on a college application. Don’t do clubs or sports just to pad the resume. Many times colleges can tell the difference.”
How much homework do you have each night? The Image asked 205 students how much homework they receive each night.
3+ hours (10%) 2-3 hours (14%)
Less than one hour (44%) 1-2 hours (32%)
Senior Taylor McKenna has about one and a half hours of homework per night. He runs cross country in the fall and wrestles in the winter along with working in the Cookie Stand. He said, “I kind of have to be busy. I consider some things more important than others and I’ll have a list of the important stuff that I need to do first.”
Senior Aleks Husic is a part of the fall play, Renaissance Student Steering Committee and various clubs. He said that it usually takes him around five hours to finish his homework every night, because he gets distracted. To get all his homework done, Husic said, “I just get it done. There’s really no other way around it. I just accept that I have to do it and I do it.”
Senior Ali McNair gets around two hours of homework per night. She said it is easy to get all of it done right now, but next semester it is going to be harder, because she will be playing lacrosse. She also works around 30 hours on some week, because she is in Cooperative Career Education (CCE). “Sometimes I do homework at work, but sometime I can’t, so I stay up late after work,” McNair said.
Senior Maeve McFarland has two jobs and is scheduled to work 30 hours a week so she can save money for college. She does about an hour of homework a day, but she still finds herself stressed because of the amount of time she spends at work. To balance her time, McFarland said CCE really helps, because she leaves school after 5th Hour to go to work. “I do homework before or after work,” she said.
Sophomore Andrew Boal said he does between two and five hours of homework each night, depending on the day. He takes all honors classes, along with one AP class. Outside of school, Boal works at a Tae Kwon Do school and in the spring he plays baseball both in and out of school. “I usually get everything done, but sometimes I skip on studying a little bit,” he said.
In school, junior Amanda Rightler is involved in choir, Key Club, Peace Jam and NHS. She also participates in her church youth group and plays piano. She spends around four hours working on homework each night, because most of her classes are AP. To get all of her homework done when she is involved in so many activities, Rightler said, “Sometimes I don’t get that much sleep.”
Junior Josh Daminato, is a member of the swim team, and gets three to four hours of homework each night. He said he doesn’t have much free time, but when he does he likes to play video games. To manage his time, Daminato said he just goes home and gets everything done right away.
Junior Chris Caldwell dances every day after school, so he doesn’t have very much time for homework. He gets around two and a half hours of homework each night. “In school I try to finish all of my homework so I don’t have homework outside of school,” Caldwell said.
Photos by Kara Campbell
14 Sports
Nov. 5, 2010
Down to the Wire
Six teams have fallen, three remain in post-season play Boys Soccer In an effort to move the ball to goal, senior Zac Walters makes a kick upfield in the Oct. 1 game against Oakville. The team ended its regular season at 16-6-1 overall and was ranked fourth in the Suburban West Conference before losing in Districts. (Photo by Andrew Higgins)
Field Hockey Trying to stop an opposing player, junior Ashton Lichvar lays down a stick tackle. The Lancers finished the regular season at 19-2 and took first in the Public School Tournament. They are currently making a run toward State in the Midwest Tournament. (Photo by Alex Vanderheyden)
Cross Country Senior Kurtis Harshman, currently ranked 13th in the area in long courses, competes in the Oct. 1 meet at Queeny Park. The boys team sent Harshman and one other to State while the girls qualified as a team. (Photo by Ashley Coffman)
Girls Volleyball Junior Marilyn Dick spikes the ball against Parkway South in Districts on Oct. 27. The Lancers beat South, Eureka and Washington before losing to St. Joe’s in Sectionals on Oct. 30. (Photo by Alex Vanderheyden)
Boys Swimming Sophomore Jeremy Bruder competes in the Oct. 26 meet against Eureka. The Lancers swimming and diving team has 10 members going to State on Nov. 12 -13. (Photo by Alex Vanderheyden)
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Sports 15
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image Season ends in District loss to CBC Gian Wessel / Sports Editor Despite starting the season 0-2 and being only 5-4, the Lancers controlled their own destiny going into their final game against CBC. A win by four points or more on Oct. 29 would have given the team a spot in Sectionals. But the Cadets, ranked fourth in St. Louis by the Post-Dispatch, had goals of their own. With a dominating 34-20 win over the Lancers, they claimed the Class 6, District 3 crown for themselves and dropped the Lancers to 5-5 to end the season. “We didn’t play up to what we could have. We weren’t as prepared as we should have been because they threw a lot of different looks at us,” junior Will Dupont said. The Lancers had won four of their previous five games, but gained only 196 total yards against a superior CBC team. The loss solidified their second-place finish in the Suburban West Conference, behind a trio of 7-1 teams that tied for first. After starting Districts with a 35-19 win over Parkway South on Homecoming, the team found itself in position to advance. But the Lancers surrendered a 17-point lead and fell to Marquette the next week to put them in a must-win situation against CBC.
“Obviously it’s always disappointing to end the season,” Coach Boyd Manne said. “I was proud of our senior leaders and effort was outstanding. Our effort in games improved week in and week out.” Offensively, the Lancers were loaded with juniors at the skill positions this season, including the team’s top three pass catchers. Dupont led the way with 34 receptions for 567 yards and six touchdowns. He also led the team in total yards and trailed only sophomore Deonte Robinson in rushing yards. As quarterback, junior Dom Bisesi had a solid season despite starting only eight games. He finished with 1,762 passing yards and 14 touchdowns for a 104.75 passer rating. On defense, seniors Jimmy DeStefano and Al Nesbit both stepped up for a unit that allowed 23.1 points per game. While DeStefano held strong with a teamhigh 85 tackles, Nesbit forced four turnovers and turned two of them into touchdowns. “We did good things on offense, defense and special teams, but we needed to put it together all at one time,” Manne said. “It’s obviously not the way we wanted to end. But I’ll take away the friendships, there’s nothing better than playing football,” senior Jared Brinkmeyer added.
At the State golf tournament, senior Kelly Lamarche tees off. She tied for 23rd place, shooting an 81 in round one and an 89 in round two. She placed fifth in Sectionals to qualify for State. (Photo courtesy of Prestige Portraits)
Lamarche, Goldammer represent girls golf at State
After fielding a kick, senior Al Nesbit looks to head upfield against CBC. Nesbit had a huge game in a losing effort, scoring three touchdowns in three different ways. Lafayette fell to the Cadets 34-20 and finished the season 5-5. (Photo courtesy of Frank D’Antonio)
After hitting a ball through the middle, senior Dana Lawson prepares to leave the batter’s box. The outfielder led the Lancers in hitting with a .412 batting average. (Photo courtesy of Dana Lawson)
Softball reaches Districts, falls to EHS to finish 16-13
Against Marquette, freshman Haleigh Chobanian serves to her opponent. As the team’s top-seeded singles player, Chobanian advanced to State before suffering a season-ending injury. (Photo by Dominic Corvington)
Girls tennis features two standout freshmen
Sean McIntyre / Reporter
Gian Wessel / Sports Editor
Dominic Corvington / Reporter
The Lady Lancers proved to be one of the strongest of any public school on the links. They finished the regular season undefeated and won the Suburban West Conference. But, a second place District finish wasn’t enough to advance to Sectionals as a team. “I think it started out as a really good year, but I was disappointed that we didn’t go as far as a team. But it definitely gave us a lot of motivation for next year,” sophomore Ashton Goldammer said. The team did send four golfers, senior Kelly Lamarche, juniors Claire Norfleet and Maddie Van House and Goldammer to Sectionals individually. From there, Lamarche and Goldammer advanced to State, where they placed 23rd and 56th, respectively. After such a strong season this year, Lamarche plans to play golf at the collegiate level.
With one of the youngest teams in years, the Lady Lancers finished 16-13 before falling to Eureka in Districts. “I am still proud of the team for their efforts and thank our seniors for all they have put into the program. They will be missed. The players we have returning will be ready to get them next year,” Head Coach Scott DeNoyer said. Senior Dana Lawson finished her career on a high note, leading the team in batting average (.412) and several other offensive categories. Junior Lindsey Button also had a strong season, hitting .341 and leading the team with 23 RBI’s. The Lancers finished third the Suburban West standings with a 5-3 in Conference record despite ranking seventh in runs scored and fifth in runs allowed. Their biggest win came against Parkway South (23-6) on Sept. 27, which capped a season-long four-game winning streak.
Freshmen Haleigh Chobanian and Arianna Demos went 13-1 and 14-0, respectively, and highlighted the team’s dominant singles play. Chobanian advanced to State, but was forced to withdraw before her first match due to injury. The Lancers earned several tournament victories throughout the season, including the Kickapoo and Conference Tournaments as well as the District 4 tournament. They were also the runner-up in the Parkway Doubles Tournament and went 21-0 in Conference doubles play. “We are extremely proud of our entire team and think we had a stellar year, with many accomplishments. We know that we will be even stronger next year and look forward to matching these accomplishments and making that last hurdle of qualifying the team for the State Tournament,” Coach Donna Stauffer said.
16 Sports Everyone’s Got Game Gian Wessel, Sports Editor
Nov. 5, 2010
An LHS fall sports recap, Rams-style In honor of the Rams quadrupling last year’s win total this season, it seems appropriate to hand out some Rams-themed awards for Lafayette’s fall sports season. While the school had plenty of success across the board, there were some athletes and teams that stood out above the rest. Sam Bradford Award Breakout Freshmen There were too many outstanding freshmen this year to pick just one. So we won’t. But we can narrow it down to three. In swimming, Patrick Vega couldn’t have asked for a better start to his high school career. He lost just three races and had seven State cuts as of Oct. 28. In tennis, the Lady Lancers had not one, but two freshmen at the top of their varsity latter. Haleigh Chobanian went 13-1 and reached State as the top singles seed, while Arianna Demos finished 14-1 and advanced to Sectionals as the number two seed. Rams Defense Award Best Team Defense So far, the Rams have had mixed results on the defensive side of the ball. But there’s no doubt they have improved from recent years. The Lafayette boys soccer team allowed just 11 goals all season. If that’s not impressive enough, consider that the team started the season with nine straight shutouts. NINE! Denario Alexander Award Best Comeback After an electrifying career as a Mizzou
Congratulations to the
LAFAYETTE
CLASS OF 2011
receiver, Alexander was destined to be an NFL playmaker. But shortly before the NFL Draft, he underwent his fourth knee injury in four years, went undrafted and ended up signing with the Rams practice squad this season. On Oct. 17, in the first quarter of his first NFL game, he made a beautiful diving catch for a 30-yard touchdown to put the Rams up 7-0. As a Mizzou fan, I couldn’t help but stand up and cheer for the guy. Junior receiver Will Dupont also had a comeback story of sorts when he caught eight passes for 140 yards against Marquette on Oct. 22. That performance came just two weeks after he suffered a severe ankle injury against Oakville and was expected to miss the season. Danny Amendola Award Little Guy, Big Plays At five feet wight inches and 183 pounds, Amendola doesn’t look like the typical NFL receiver. But after two of the team’s top receivers went down with injuries, Amendola has stepped up in a big way. He leads the Rams in receptions and yards and plays much bigger than his size. The same can be said for sophomore running back Deonte Robinson, who stands at just five feet five inches With injuries hitting hard, he was promoted to varsity halfway through the season and immediately become the main ball carrier. Despite playing in only seven games, he led the team in rushing yards and touchdowns. He had a huge game against Parkway South on Oct. 15, when he ran for 161 yards and two touchdowns.
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O.J. Atogwe Award Defensive Playmaker Let’s just say that Atogwe makes the team’s defense look a lot better than it actually is. Since his rookie year in 2005, few NFL players have forced more turnovers and made more big plays on defense than he has. Lafayette’s version of Atogwe this fall would have to be senior soccer player Ryan Mansfield. Even as a defender, he recorded five goals and three assists for 13 total points. 20-3 Victory Award Dominating Performance The Rams defeated the Seahawks 20-3 on Oct. 3 in what was easily their most impressive performance in three years. But they have nothing on senior cross country runner Kurtis Harshman, who ran a 16:13 5K on Oct. 14 at the Patriot Classic. That time earned him a National Elite Award, one of the most prestigious awards in cross country. “It was very exciting. It was definitely a goal of mine,” he said at the time.
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Steven Jackson Award Offensive Playmaker Even with the Rams offensive seemingly adding new weapons each week, their powerful running back remains their best offensive player. Jackson currently ranks fifth in the NFL with 509 rushing yards. This fall, the boys soccer team looked to senior Zac Walters as their go-to guy on the attack. He finished the year with 10 goals and eight assists for 28 total points.
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Increased use of protein supplements enhances abilities of student-athletes Dom Corvington / Reporter Looking to gain an upper hand in their respective sport, many athletes are turning in the direction of protein supplements to further develop their skills and get maximum results out of their weekly exercises. Most protein supplements are comprised of whey proteins, which are made from the concentrated protein molecules of milk, and are most effective when used before or after working out, especially when lifting weights. These proteins then go hand-in-hand with training athletes because whenever they are absorbed into the body their main functions are recovery and the rebuilding of muscle. With this, they are able to improve much needed attributes such as speed, agility, and strength in a shorter period of time. For that reason, protein powders such as Phormula 1 have become increasingly popular among athletes.
Junior Jared Webber has been using Phormula 1 in combination with a glycogen formula called Ignition after weekly lifting sessions in order to prepare for the upcoming basketball season. “I use Phormula 1 because it helps me maximize all the hard work I put in at the gym. I’ve seen massive improvements in my overall strength and I’ve put on lean muscle weight,” Webber said. Still, the use supplement is far from being the only means of feeding essential proteins into the body. Healthy proteins can just as easily be taken in by eating a variety of meat and dairy products. However, the main difference lies in the fact that the body takes much longer to absorb and breakdown the protein molecules of ingested foodstuff. “It’s ideal to get protein from food like a piece of chicken breast or a steak, but sometimes it’s a lot more convenient to grab it in a
shake,” certified nutrition specialist Greg Goldkuhl said. Junior Blake Stonecipher is an occasional user of supplement alternatives and uses a mix of milk, peanut butter, bananas, and other assorted foods to form a natural protein shake recommended to him at the Fitzmaurice Performance training facility. “I usually take it when I don’t have protein powder and can’t make it to the Supplement Superstore or GMC,” Stonecipher said. Realistically, there are no risks involved with taking protein supplements as long as they are made in a Food and Drug Administration inspected (FDA) facility. Besides that, it is merely a “powdered” version of food that works to enhance muscle growth and recovery time. “Taking it by itself is not going to make someone bigger [but] it can help people jump higher and make them run faster,” Goldkuhl said, “It feeds that explosive energy that athletes need.”
Supplemental Info • Commonly used protein supplements among student athletes: Phormula 1, Level 1, Optimum Nutrition 100% Gold Standard Whey • Prices depend on how delicately they are processed and the temperature at which they are cooked. • Supplements cooked at higher heat levels are typically cheaper because protein is not as easily absorbed • It is important to select brands of protein that are FDA-regulated
$57.99
$59.99
$24.99
*prices according to SupplementSuperstores.com
• There are three types of whey protein: WP (whey protein) 30, WP 85, WP90. WP 85 is the most common. • WP30 is the same type of protein found in cookies, cereal and other sugary foods
18 Sports
Nov. 5, 2010
Winter athletes prep for seasons with year-round training Sean McIntyre / Reporter “Players are made in the offseason. It is a time for players to work hard on their individual skills. It is also a time where the players can play together in the summer against good competition and improve team play,” girls basketball Coach Jennifer Porter said. As the fall sports season comes to an end, it is time to gear up for winter sports. The boys and girls basketball, wrestling, and girls swimming teams have already been preparing for their upcoming season. Lafayette sports teams have had their fair share of success through the years. A lot of the winning is due to the hard work that many athletes and coaches put in during the offseason. The offseason provides teams
with the opportunity to work on things that were weaknesses in the past and fix them for the next season. These offseason workouts are also vital to success when the regular season rolls around. They help the teams get into good physical shape, build team chemistry as well as learn the expectations of their coaches before the season starts. “I think [offseason training] is really important because there are a lot of good teams and players out there and you can only benefit when you keep working to get better, you help yourself and your team get better,” junior basketball player Kayla Hall said. Teams also take the time to get into better shape than the year before or back into shape for the next
season. Some athletes even change their eating habits in efforts of getting back into mid-season form. “It is really important to us to train in the offseason so that we don’t need to spend the first two weeks [of the season] getting in shape,” senior diver Alyssa Shaw said. However, it is the offseason, so many players take the opportunity to rest and heal any injuries acquired during the season. Yet, sometimes players take it too easy for too long and don’t take the opportunity to make themselves or their team better. The athletes have to keep each other accountable to be at practice and work hard all of the time. “Yeah, definitely, because [offseason training] creates a great atmosphere and promotes team-
work,” junior basketball player Joel Pennington said. A great atmosphere and teamwork play a large role in the success of each team, so some teams take it upon themselves to build that chemistry. “We also have tried to organize bonfires and other events to help integrate new members to the team and help build team camaraderie so we can start the season strong,” senior swimmer Marissa Passi said. The difficulty of the training can also get to the athletes and make them not want to work as hard. It’s up to each individual athlete to decide whether to put in the time. “People want to quit all the time because it’s too hard and they believe it’s not worth it,” senior wrestler Taylor McKenna said.
Seniors Kyle Black and Daniel Clutter spar at an open mat workout in the Wrestling Room. (Photo by Sean McIntyre)
Who’s More Dedicated? Players from each sport explain their team’s routines Boys Basketball
Girls Basketball
Routine
-Weight training on Monday, Wednesday and Fridays -Exercise program was created by Brett Fischer, a former NFL player and currently a coach at Washington University
Player’s Take
“We’ve been lifting and running since early spring and if we aren’t exhausted once we’ve finished, we didn’t work hard enough,” junior Joel Pennington said.
Routine
-25 days for coaches to meet with players -Team practices or skill-building activities -Several players participate in local shootouts, play in summer leagues and attend Fitzmaurice Performance
Player’s Take
“We definitely put in extra time with open gym and Fitzmaurice and such because basketball is a three and a half month commitment, longer than most sports,” junior Kayla Hall said.
Girls Swimming
Wrestling
Routine
-Most team members swim for the Rockwood Swim Club daily -Several members swim or dive year-round
Player’s Take
“Well considering the fact that we’ve won Conference 25 years in a row, placed top three in State for a while, constantly win invitationals, State champions last season, I’m going to have to say we are the best winter sport,” senior Alyssa Shaw said.
Routine
-Holding open mats since September -Supervised drills twice per week -Optional weight training -Some wrestlers take private lessons from professional coaches
Player’s Take
“We don’t think [wrestling] is the hardest, we know that. You really can’t explain [the season]; you have to experience it for yourself. Wrestling in itself is conditioning,” senior Taylor McKenna said.
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Carol Bowman ACADEMY OF DANCE presents
“The Nutcracker” Date: Sunday, December 5, 2010 Time: 2:00 PM and 4:00 PM Location: Chesterfield YMCA Theater
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Call for Information on Group Rates or to order tickets by phone. 1 hour performance, ideal for all ages! Hope you can join us!
Opinions 19
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Santi Diz
Hard decisions needed to remedy district budget issues [the] image Staff Editorial The Image staff believes Rockwood has failed to properly communicate to its residents the severity of our budget issues. It is time for the community to be informed about the incredibly dire situation that the district is in. Rockwood is currently projected to have a $6.8 million deficit for the 2012 fiscal year. This is due to a variety of issues, chiefly the significant loss of revenue from local property taxes. Property taxes make up about 64.2 percent of district revenue, and this has taken a major hit due to the economic times, as home foreclosures across the area have burst not just the district’s bubble, but also West County’s. These are hard times, and the district has yet to adjust to the current economy. This has led to the idea of a tax increase being proposed, which would require voter approval likely in an
April referendum. We find that it would be irresponsible for the district to ask voters during such times for a tax increase, without first trying to significantly improve the budget by tightening Rockwood’s belt and cutting spending. Every student will likely be affected by cuts, but it is important that whatever policies the district chooses to implement, the number one priority should be to maintain the superb
quality of education that already exists in the district. There are several areas the district simply must cut spending. The first of these areas would be block scheduling. Block scheduling is a system in our schools that has no proven significant effect on student performance. In plain terms, it truly is just a matter of preference that drains district money. Standard scheduling is not only cheaper as it requires fewer teachers, but works,. Eliminating block scheduling is an area to cut. This would save the district the salaries of about 10 teachers per high school. Another area the district could cut is administration. Lafayette has six administrators. That puts about 334 students with each administrator. Other Rockwood schools have similar situations, and this is by no means a judgment of
Stars to: stars & gripes
our administrators, which we believe do a great job and provide a great service for students. However, times are tough, and some people will have to go. A system where there are three administrators assigned to one third of the alphabet for students, or simply one administrator for the underclassmen and another for the upperclassmen would significantly help save the district money. Another step we think should be taken is a hiring and salary freeze. Staff salaries make up over 80 percent of the school’s budget and instruction specifically takes up 72.7 percent. The district simply cannot afford for this area to grow any larger, whether it be for replacing retiring teachers or for raising a teacher’s pay. We present these solutions as a way to fulfill our part in helping our community. What is sadly not evident is whether or not the district will listen.
Gripes to:
• Mizzou fans storming the field, 30 being arrested and then released after the upset victory over top ranked Oklahoma. BEST NIGHT EVA!!! ;)
• The darkness that comes with the colder season. It is now dark at both 6 a.m and 6 p.m.
• Coffee House being saved...again.
• The clocks that tell us it’s 5:45 during 3rd hour. Now school really feels like it never ends.
• New Renaissance programs that provide more incentives for students. Wait, we actually get rewarded for good grades? • Superfans for singing their own version of Don’t Stop Believin’ after girls volleyball won Districts. What a journey it was.
• It’s A Grind being closed on Oct. 29. We have been deprived of a winter blend before winter even starts. • Not being off school the day after Halloween. That’s no treat.
20 Opinions
Nov. 5, 2010
The solutions to education lie in competition Tomorrow’s Answers Today
Caleb Cavarretta Opinions Editor
The United States is the world’s leading nation. We have the largest economy, one of the best standards of living, the strongest military and we are one of the freest countries in the world. Yet, there is one area that we are beginning to slowly lose ground. Gradually, over the past several decades, the United States has fallen behind other developed nations in one of the greatest investments that we could ever make in our futures: education. According to The Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development, the United States has dropped to 18th out of the most developed nations in the world. Students across the country are lagging in all categories of education, whether it be math, science, reading or language arts. Only about 75 percent of high students even graduate. The real problems with education lie with the students and their parents, as well as the institution of education itself. The first issue is the simplest, but the hardest to solve. Put plainly, kids need to become more devoted to their schooling and parents need to be more involved in their kids’ education.
Far too often, students blow off school, and far too often, parents don’t care. The second issue is a bit more complicated, but much easier to make improvements to. The public education system has a wide variety of issues, with the grading system being the most evident. The current grading system across the country puts far too much weight on student input, and far too little on student output. In the real world, and on standardized testing, what we produce is all that truly matters. No matter how little or hard we work, results are all that matter. In the educational system, this rule does not apply, as students have a significant portion of their grade based on homework. Rather than grading students on how much they understand, we instead baby them from the beginning, allowing homework points to be a crutch for those who do not understand the material. This punishes those who are gifted or have a large workload and benefits those who do not grasp the lessons
they are being taught. This also leads to significantly lower test scores, as students place less significance on the scores. It leads to a weaker performance in the real world as well, which will most definitely hurt our ability to compete economically. While the Rockwood School District’s attempt to change the current grading system in the near future is a step forward, it would take a national trend to really address the issue. Another significant issue pertains to teachers. In our current educational system more often than not, teachers are required to join a union. These unions, like most others, are relics from a time long ago when they actually benefited the system. In recent times, teachers unions have repeatedly stood in the way of educational reform, whether it be their opposition to the expansion and development of charter schools, such as in New York, or their defense of bad teachers. Charter schools are one of the few lights present in the darkness that is inner city education across the country, and have been a point of compromise
for the left and right before, but still often face dissent from teachers unions. The issue of bad teachers is one of the more problematic for public schooling, as it is a very sensitive subject. While Lafayette and most of the Rockwood District happens to be mostly free of this problem, the truth of the matter is that there are bad teachers. The solution to this issue is the same thing that any business would do. If an employee, or in this case a teacher, consistently under performs, then he or she should be terminated, or their pay should be cut. The difficulty behind implementing this solution is that there are a wide variety of variables to consider. Even though this is the case, districts across the country should still attempt to remedy this problem, because these attempts would give teachers the motivation to be successful, and to outperform others. These issues in the system may be more complicated, but they are much easier to deal with. Fair competition, both among schools and teachers, are the real solution to maintaining and improving the quality of education.
TPing often leads to pranks going too far Some people think it’s all in good fun, and to them, TPing is nothing more than a practical joke. But to others, it’s something more: it’s a crime. TPing, like all vandalism, is a crime in every state of the union, and excuses won’t get the perpetrators out of the hands of the law if caught. However, because TPing has been around for years and has been integrated into many social events ranging from Homecoming to Halloween, rarely are charges pressed and rarely is there a large disruption due to said event. In essence, TPing has become a part of our society. Considered to be a rite of passage to many, an annual event to some and friendly message to even more, the social gathering has all but lost its
This month the Image asks... How appropriate is TPing?
malicious intent and status as an act of vandalism. It has been accepted. But the question is: has it become boring? Perhaps this is the reason for the recent escalation of vandalism in the Wildwood area, peaking at the most incriminating time, Homecoming Week. There is no denying that this vandalism is the action of Lafayette students. And so it is to you who I speak. When did blatant disrespect become cool? Who decided that the destruction of someone’s property is enjoyable? Who made all of this all right? I certainly didn’t receive the memo.
However, the parents of every Lafayette student did receive a note from Principal John Shaughnessy in which his concern is clearly portrayed. Shaughnessy wrote, “We are receiving several reports of incidents in some of our neighborhoods that can be classified as vandalism or trespassing, such as TPing, vehicles driving through yards and vulgar and crude language being directed towards adults.” Shaughnessy continued, “We have spoken with our student leaders about these incidents, and our coaches and sponsors have talked to their teams to help students understand these activities are not appropriate.” “We have outstanding young people at Lafayette High School. We
“Some take it upon themselves to take it too far.” - Brooke Bonder, 9
“I think it’s awesome. The more the merrier.” -Drue Bravo, 12
“It is no big deal if it is just a friendly thing.” -Nick Desnoyer, 10
“TPing is appropriate because it is just a way to have fun.” -Leena Wahba, 11
believe it is a small group of students who are participating in these types of inappropriate activities that are not reflective of who we are and are inconsistent with our school’s mission and values,” he said. While TPing is a largely accepted activity in high school society, the other vandalism is not. Lawn Jobs, profanities and damage are not fun and games. They are true crimes, true issues. Those who commit each act are guilty of giving their fellow classmates bad names. It is a disappointing fact that some people cannot take a joke, but it is disheartening to know that some students don’t know how to make one. And so it is to you who I speak. And I say, I’m disappointed.
On The Contrary Max Thoman Managing Editor
What others thought
It is not that big of a deal. (35.4%)
It is just a tradition, with little harm done. (60.2%)
It is illegal, and is simply vandalism. (4.4%)
[the]
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Chocolate Fever:
Opinions 21
Image staff searches for best local hot cocoa
Caleb Cavarretta / Opinions Editor Hot chocolate is the embodiment of winter treats. Whether it has cream or sprinkles, is cheap or expensive, smooth or thick, it is a perfect compliment to the chilly season. It is offered at various locations throughout the city. Four Image staffers reviewed four spots known for their hot cocoa close to home. Alyssa Knowling, Reporter
$2.69
Hannah Boxerman, Reporter
Caleb Cavarretta, Opinions Editor
Sean McIntyre , Reporter
The first sip of the hot chocolate was rich, the second was richer, and the third was too rich. All in all it was overpriced and bitter tasting, though the whipped cream on top was a nice touch. Sorry Starbucks, but the hot chocolate wasn’t really that great.
This was bitter and watery. Also, it was the most expensive and smallest of all, and definitely not worth it. If you prefer the drink less sweet, this is the cocoa for you, but for the rest of us, it is a disappointment. Perhaps Starbucks should stick to coffee.
Starbucks really disappointed, with by far the most bitter tasting hot cocoa I have had, as well as the most expensive. An attempt was obviously made to give it rich taste, but it ended up being bitter. Even so, they get more than a one for trying.
The hot cocoa was much too rich to the point of bitterness and tasted like coffee. It was also a little bit pricey. If buying overpriced, bitter hot cocoa is your thing, then you would like Starbucks.
The hot chocolate was very creamy, not too watery and not too chocolaty. It was a little pricey, but not awful. It was topped with whipped cream and chocolate sauce. If it were cheaper it would be near perfect.
By far the most rich. The real appeal was the whipped cream and chocolate drizzle, which mixed well with the thick and creamy taste. It is a bit overpriced and comes in one size, which detracted from the appeal (it would be a 4.5 without taking these elements into consideration).
At 30 cents cheaper, this is by far a better alternative to Starbucks. With its whipped cream on top and smooth warm texture, it tries to make a great cup of hot cocoa, but it still is not worth the price.
I enjoyed it, but it didn’t have enough taste to it. The price was only okay. It did have whipped cream on it which was a plus for sure.
I was so impressed with this hot chocolate. It had a classic taste and was so cheap. This is sure to be just as popular as QuickTrip’s slushies and will be a great alternative drink for the winter.
Who knew that gas station hot chocolate could be this good! Quick, inexpensive, and delicious, this is a great option for students looking to treat themselves. It usually doesn’t come with whipped cream or drizzle, which made it a little less creamy than other types. It does get to be a little too thick at times.
The best of the group, QuikTrip not only has the best tasting hot chocolate, but also the cheapest. Simplicity is key in this hot cocoa, as it is smooth and rich without the need of anything extra.
Strangely enough, QT was hands down the best hot chocolate that I tested. It had a lot of chocolate in the taste without being too strong or too rich. The other thing to take into account is that to be a five, I would have to take a sip and then have to tell everyone around me that it was the best hot chocolate ever.
The Kaldi’s hot chocolate is watery, with a bitter after taste. Beyond that it was incredibly expensive for such a small size.
The taste of chocolate was strong and rich, but the entire effect was ruined by this drink’s watery consistency. Perhaps it wasn’t mixed enough; chocolate sauce had pooled unpleasantly at the bottom of the cup. Whatever the reason, I think that Kaldi’s should stick to coffee.
Kaldi’s hot cocoa is a great drink, with lots of rich taste, but it drops the ball in several areas. It is not exactly cost effective, as it costs a lot for a small size. It also was a bit too watery.
It was a little bit watered down, but definitely still had the solid hot chocolate taste. There are cheaper buys out there for sure.
$2.35
$1.17
$3
22 Infotainment
Nov. 5, 2010
iPod Revolution:
Apple has its hands in all things music, technology with several new additions to the iPod family Grace Bueckendorf / Reporter
iPod Nano
iPad
The iPod nano has been completely redesigned. It’s new, smaller, sleeker style makes it perfect for music on the go. It is half as heavy and features a touch screen. As apple. com puts it, “It’s the perfect size for a tap or a swipe, so fingertips feel right at home.” Senior Kristi Estrada’s favorite features are the nano’s light-weight, clip saying, “It’s perfect for working out.” Estrada said one drawback is that the screen is a bit small to clearly see all the songs.
Much like an oversized iPod Touch, the iPad includes all the features of the older iPod Touch. Apple.com said that you can “create a presentation with custom graphic styles, elegantly designed themes, stunning animations and effects, and powerful new features designed just for iPad.” You can also ready your favorite books on iBooks, with a setup much like a library shelf. iPad owner and math substitute Susan Curtis said, “If a person had a Kindle and they wanted the ability of a computer, this would be ideal, because you would have both things in one.” There is also easy access to email, web, photos, videos, YouTube, and much more. “My favorite part is playing the games. I have Scrabble and Sudoku, which I really enjoy. [Also,] I have subbed for some teachers that take their computers home, [and now] I still have access to a computer.” Sophomore Nikki Frazer said, “It’s too big to be portable, and it’s more expensive than having a laptop.” Sophomore Amy Bower added, “It’s just a big, overglorified iPod Touch. There isn’t any point for it at all.”
iPod Shuffle The new design of the iPod shuffle 4G is much like that of the iPod shuffle 2G. However, there are many new features such as Voice Over and a bigger control pad. With one click, Voice Over can tell you the title and artist of that song that’s been bugging you. It speaks over 25 different languages to accommodate a multi-lingual library. The new control pad is 18 percent bigger than the preceding shuffles for easier navigation.
iPod Touch
iPhone 4
The new iPod touch looks much like the old one in design. If you look closely, though, you will notice a camera on the back and front. Although these cameras can be used for filming in HD, their purpose is for an app called FaceTime. FaceTime is much like Skype, but can only be used with other people who have the new iPod Touch. Another feature is the new Retina display. Users can zoom way into a text without seeing pixels because, according to apple.com, “the Retina display’s pixel density is so high your eye is unable to distinguish individual pixels.”
Just like the iPod touch, the iPhone has FaceTime, but these can be conducted over calls. However, it can only be used with other iPod Touch and iPhone users. Retina display is also available on the iPhone 4, as well as HD video recording. Multitasking is very easy on the new iPhone, with its icons along the bottom of the screen. The glass on the screen is stronger. In fact, it is the same glass used in making helicopter and train wind shields. The metal band around the perimeter of the phone serves both as the antennas and for structural strengths. Susan Curtis, substitute math teacher said, “It has a much better screen. The video is much better. The clarity of the screen and the ability to do video is the biggest difference between iPhone 4 and iPhone 3G. There’s also a two-way camera.”
Picks of the Month Adam Harris makes entertainment choices for November
Movie: The Road
Post-apocalyptic story about a father and son who squander about the remains of the United States after nuclear warfare kills nearly the entire human race. The relationship is grounded upon trust and sacrifice as both father and son struggle to survive and find hope.
Concert:
Badfish @ Pop’s The only “legit” tribute band that can recreate the energy and soul that Sublime produced in the 90s. It is nice to hear familiar tracks with a fresh twist while the group still holds the values and ideas Sublime planted in their music.
Album:
TV Show:
Book:
Eyedea & Abilities- First Born
Dexter Season 5
Hell’s Angels
With a devastating end to the Season 4 finale, Season 5 picks up where Dexter finds his worst nightmare made into a reality. Showtime steps up its game as it follows two-faced Dexter Morgan (Michael C. Hall) as he tries to piece his life back together.
Hunter S. Thompson’s vivid account of his two years living with the famous motorcycle group. Cycling up and down the coast of California Thompson captures the anarchic spirit of the gang and defines the biker lifestyle during that period in America.
Passing in his sleep on Oct 17, 2010, underground lyricist, Eyedea, had yet to reach commercial notoriety. His first album sets the stage for his short-lived music career bringing listeners a true emcee experience.
Infotainment 23
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{November Entertainment} {Concerts}
{Music} The Concretes- WYWH
9th
8th
Weekend- Sports Natasha BedingfieldStrip Me
Reba McEntireAll the Woman I Am
Josh GrobanIllumination StereolabNot Music
23rd
16th
RhiannaOut Loud
Nicki Minaj- Pink Friday
5th
All Time Low @ The Firebird
Kina Granis Old Rock House;$14
7th
Fair Game
6th
Chelsea Handler @ Scottrade
Barenaked Ladies @ The Pageant; $29.50 Justin Beiber @ Scott Trade
12th
Tilts EP release party @ The Firebird; $8
{Movies} Date 5th Due Megamind
8th
13th
Iron & Wine @ The Pageant; $22
Brookroyal @ Pop’s; $8 Reel Big Fish @ The Pageant; $25
16th
14th
Forever The Sickest Kids @ The Firebird; $15
17th
9th Lifehouse @ The Pageant; $30
A Day To Remember @ Pop’s; $25;
Fang Island @ The Firebird; $12
24th Badfish @ Pop’s; $18
10th
Red Hill 127 Hours
12th
Skyline Morning Glory
Next Three Days 19th The Harry Potter and The
Deathly Hollows: Part 1 Tangled
24th
26th Red Dawn
24 Infotainment
Nov. 5, 2010
The Final Chapter
The History of Harry Potter
After a decade, Harry Potter movie series reaches its conclusion
Mia Schenone / Webmaster The beginning of the end of an era will begin on Nov. 19. Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part One will be released in theaters and the wizarding world will begin its decent into the classic movie vault. Looking back, it’s been 12 years since the novel, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone was released and nine years since the movie opened. Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone first weekend box office earnings were $90,294,621 and the numbers haven’t changed much since then, with the highest grossing movie being Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire reaching $102,335,066 in its first weekend. Over the years audiences have watched as Harry Potter, Ron Weasley and Hermione Granger faced obstacle after obstacle tying to chase down and abolish “He who must not be named,” Lord Voldemort. In their first year, it was up to the trio to find the Sorcerer’s Stone and return it good hands. In their second year, the three had to find where the Chamber of Secrets was and who was behind the student attacks. With Hermione getting petrified, it was up to Harry and Ron to finish the mystery and up to Harry to defeat the serpent lingering in the chamber. During the third year, Professor R. J. Lupin joins the staff of Hogwarts as the Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher, while convicted murderer Sirius Black escapes Azkaban Prison. Harry learns Sirius is in fact is godfather and not the murderous foe he is believed to be. In their fourth year, Harry is mysteriously entered into the Triwizard Tournament and forced to participate in the dangerous events. Here, Voldemort comes back to a true human form, and Harry is forced to face the villain alone and head on. Harry’s fifth year begins with him being attacked by Dementors during the summer. He is also disturbed by disturbing nightmares while Professor Umbridge, a representative
of the Minister for Magic, is the new Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher. In rebellion, the students of Hogwarts make a secret organization called Order of the Phoenix, to infiltrate the Ministry and the get rid of the Death Eaters. In year six at Hogwarts, Lord Voldemort and his Death Eaters are increasing their terror upon both the Wizard and Muggle worlds. In a Potions lesson, Harry takes possession of a strangely annotated school textbook, inscribed ‘This is the property of the Half-Blood Prince’, which contains astonishing information. Meanwhile, Dumbledore and Harry secretly work together to find a method on how to destroy Voldemort. Now, with the final year at hand, and Dumbledore gone it’d up to Harry to destroy the remaining Horcruxes (these are parts of Voldemort’s soul hidden throughout the world) and only then will he be able to finally kill Voldemort. So Harry, Ron and Hermione band together to vanquish the Dark Lord once and for all. However, Voldemort is at full power and ready to regain the status and fear he once held over the Wizarding world. With his gang of Death Eaters, Voldemort sets out to destroy the one thing he can’t get his hands on, Harry Potter. Only one can live. Who will survive?
Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone
Book Release: Sept. 1, 1998/28 million in print Movie Release: Nov. 16, 2001/$90.2 million grossed
Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets
Book Release: June 2, 1999/24 million in print Movie Release: Nov. 15, 2002/$88.3 million grossed
Harry Potter and the Prisoner or Azkaban
Book Release: Sept. 8, 1999/19 million in print Movie Release: June 4, 2004/$93.6 million grossed
Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire
Book Release: July 8, 2000/19 million in print Movie Release: Nov. 16, 2001/$102.3 million grossed
Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix
Book Release: June 21, 2003/16 million in print Movie Release: July 7, 2007/$77.1 million grossed
Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince
Book Release: July 16, 2005/15.5 million in print Movie Release: July 15, 2009/$77.8 million grossed *source: Publisher’s Weekly
Avid fans eagerly await Potter conclusion
Katie Blackstone
Alyssa Knowling / Reporter On Nov. 19, Harry Potter fans across the country will wait in long lines, desperately awaiting to see the release of Harry Potter and The Deathly Hollows: Part One. Among these will be several dedicated fans from Lafayette. For these students, Harry Potter is more than just a movie. It has been in their lives for a long time. “I’ve been reading the series ever since I was a little kid because all my siblings used to read them,” junior Molly Collins said. “I’ve read the books at least once a year, every year because they never get old,” she added. Collins easily manages to find entertainment by reading the books and watching the movies. “My favorite thing about Harry Potter is that every book is its own story, but they are all still related,” Collins said. “The series is something I can share with my siblings and some of my friends and it’s a great way to escape,” she added. Collins continued, “I really love how JK Rowling took stereotypical fantasy creatures and reinvented them in her own world.” Collin’s favorite movie is Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince but feel it’s likely to change. “I’m super pumped for the premier because this movie looks way more epic than the other
ones,” Collins said. For self-proclaimed “Harry Potter Geek” freshman Katie Blackstone, the upcoming movie is something she’s been anticipating. “I’ve been fallowing news updates online about the release because I’m so excited for it,” Blackstone said. Blackstone started reading the series when she was in 4th Grade after the Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince was released. “My favorite book is Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows because it’s darker and different than the rest and closes everything,” she said. “I like all the different messages the books hold and how she mixes the messages with fantasy,” she added. Although she [Blackstone] is excited for the movie she doesn’t think that it will be better than the book. “The books are better than the movies because they go into more detail and gets more in-depth,” Blackstone said. For sophomore Tess Olson, who has been reading the series since 1st Grade, continues to keep the books in her life. “Now I read it to my little brother every night. I’ve read the series about seven times, some of the books more than that,” Olson said. Olson had the opportunity to “live out” the books this summer when she took a vacation to
Florida. She visited to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Studios in Orlando, which opened the summer of 2010. “I had butter beer and pumpkin juice, which are beverages in the books,” Olson said. But the best part for Olson was seeing all the book locations come to life. “My favorite part was the virtual ride that took you to all the main locations in the Harry Potter books,” Olson said. All three students said they will be attending the opening night of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hollows and a few have plans to dress up. “I’m not dressing up as a specific character for the premier, but I am definitely going to be decked out in Gryffindor colors. Red and gold!” Collins said. Olson plans to dress up as Luna Lovegood for the movie premier, but she does have one problem with the new movie. “I’m really excited for the new movie, but I wish they were placing the releases of both parts of the seventh movie closer together,” Olsen said. Although Blackstone is excited for the movie, she doesn’t plan on dressing up. “I’m definitely going to the movie premier but I don’t think I’ll dress up because I don’t want to spend the money on a whole costume,” Blackstone said.