December issue by LHS Statesman

S tatesman L i n c o l n

H i g h

S i o u x Fa l l s , S D

December 12, 2014

S c h o o l

“The best way to predict your future is to create it.” -Abraham Lincoln

Vol. 49, No. 3

The crippling reality of college tuition

As students face a new year ahead, they also prepare for the ﬁnal decisions of their post-high school future BY SARA JANE TEAL Imagine a blank check staring seniors in the face, and the cold, ballpoint pen burning in their palm. After 13 years of the public school system, some seniors will soon sign their life away to a college that they may not even attend for the preferred four years. Majors change, living accommodations switch and tuition inevitably increases. South Dakota has the second highest percentage of indebted high school graduates among the 50 states, according to projectonstudentdebt.org. The average college student graduates with about $25,000 of debt in South Dakota. Matt Daly, a history teacher at LHS, attended both private and public college, and is currently earning his masters degree in history at the University of South Dakota. “I graduated in 2006; tuition at Augustana was around $26,000 per year when I attended school there,” said Daly. “At USD, graduate credits are more expensive. A three credit class for a graduate school costs about $1,000 to $1,200 compared to an undergraduate, three credit class, which would cost about $500.” Overall, Daly’s graduate program will cost him $12,000 for a 32 credit program. Ironically, adults and most graduate students normally take the graduate school route to earn a higher pay wage at their current job, such as Daly, to help pay off their many loans.

“Even though I had many athletic scholarships, I still graduated as an undergrad with about $30,000 in debt and after teaching for nine years and paying the bare minimum, I have brought it down to $18,000,” said Daly. “It is kind of a conundrum, paying off an undergraduate degree while attending graduate school.” Loans and scholarships are highly valued when it comes to paying for post-secondary education. Even students who plan to attend school outside of South Dakota can end up paying $100,000 per undergraduate degree with no type of financial aid, as stated in “Services Emerge to

Help Out-of-State Students Pay In-State Tuition” by Ron Lieber. “It is a

travesty that kids have to pay this much to get a college education, especially when you see what the money is spent for at most colleges and universities,” said Daly. “The state and federal government are trying to alleviate the student loan debt, and I think the government is realizing that it isn’t fair. At the same time, colleges and universities are private enterprises for the most part.” Among the 50 states, all but North Dakota and Wyoming have cut funding for public colleges. Since the 2008 financial crisis, the nation has cut per student spending by 28 percent, according to the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities. The cuts made in this budget are due to the housing market crash and rising unemployment that have punctured state funding. Colleges who do not see funding take it upon themselves to cut their spending or raise the cost of tuition, as stated in cbsnews.com. Although some of the problems may come from state funding, colleges are not always fi-

PHOTO BY SARA JANE TEAL

nancially productive with student education. “The main thing we get hit with now is interest rates, which is a part of the problem, in addition to how expensive everything is, such as the meal plans and expensive food in the cafeterias. I also think there is a lot of money being hemorrhaged in places that don’t use it or don’t need as much as they are getting,” said LHS English teacher Rebecca Mager. “I think the main thing is, colleges need to focus on the education and actually have students go to school for two or three years and not have to take so many general classes. Not having to pay $300 a credit for a class that a student may never use again could save them hundreds of dollars, such as my freshman algebra class that I’ll never use again because I am an English major.” With the rising prices of college tuition and the fear of mounting debt, it discourages students from pursuing a post-secondary education. According to the recent reports by the State Higher Education Executive Officers, state and local support of public colleges decreased by seven percent in 2012. “I think it is wrong to charge students more to go to school, because I truly believe that it is a good investment attribution. But I also think that college admissions should be more rigorous if it is going to be cheaper,” said Mager, “Some kids just go to college to go and waste their time for a year and that’s not the purpose.”

STATESMAN | December 12, 2014

Breaking through the misconceptions about car break-ins

BY ERIN DAUGHERTY In Officer Robert Draeger and Jason Larsen’s office there is a stack of 57 sheets of paper. These sheets make up the total amount of reported missing items from LHS’s 2013-2014 school year. Out of those 57 police reported thefts, 12 of them were from car break-ins. There is a common solution available for the student population to lower this number. Students simply need to lock their cars before entering the school. “Probably a quarter of the cars in the parking lot are unlocked,” said Larsen. Most students think a car break-in will never happen to them; Sioux Falls, including LHS, is a very safe place. This makes it much easier for intruders when there is so little precaution, leading to many unlocked cars. “Last school year Officer Draeger and I were looking out our office window into Arcadia parking lot and saw probably around three or four boys hanging out in the parking lot during class time,” said Larsen. “So we started watching them with our binoculars and we observed them getting into a vehicle. After the vehicle didn’t go anywhere for a while, Officer Draeger and I drove to the parking lot and made contact with the students that were in the car. Basically what it ended up being was that they were in a car that wasn’t theirs that was left unlocked, and they were stealing stuff out of the car.” Another way to limit the chances of being a victim would be to eliminate temptation. Do

PHOTO BY SYDNEY MILLER

The easiest way to prevent car break-ins is to lock car doors and hide valuables.

not leave cash or expensive items left out in the open for others to see as they are passing by. Suggestions would be to put them in a glove compartment, slide them under a seat or put them in a backpack. “The most unique thing that is reported stolen from cars is the occasional textbook, which I don’t get because everyone has one,” said Larsen. “The most commonly stolen item that gets reported is either money or electronics.” There are some misconceptions about the parking lot crimes that occur throughout the Sioux Falls School District. Although car break-ins are a burden, it does not need to be a

rising concern for students. “I don’t think the average of car break-ins has gone up over the years,” said Larsen. “It stays pretty consistent.” Usually the first feelings to arise after items have been stolen are anger or frustration, but the feeling to follow is usually confusion as to what happens next. “The first thing we would like the students to do is fill out a stolen/missing property report,” said Larsen. “Then what happens, depending on what is stolen, we will meet with that student and get the rest of the information for the police report.”

New breakfast choices at a lower price

BY MIKAELA NEUBAUER It is a never ending struggle: people want to eat healthy, but it is too expensive. People want to eat healthy, but it takes too much effort. It seems like there is no happy medium to solve this dilemma. The Sioux Falls School District, thanks to a generous grant from the Midwestern Dairy Council, has a solution. The “Grabn-Go” breakfast cart, a new feature in all Sioux Falls high schools, offers nutritious breakfast choices at a drastically reduced price. “It is a healthy alternative for students and they have more choices,” said Becky Twaddle, LHS cafeteria coordinator. “We have Greek yogurt and granola bars, including a gluten free bar. We also have dairy and cereal bowls that students can choose from.” These carts were the brainchild of Pam

Homan’s Student Forum, a group of students from the district schools (including members from LHS), representing the interests of their peers. In the March meeting, these students brought up that while the district had made great steps to improve the health and wellness of their students, many unhealthy food options sold in the school store and beyond were cheaper than their beneficial counterparts. This spurred the idea of less costly and readily available breakfast items for students. “We’re more educated now, as a whole, than we used to be about nutrition,” said Twaddle. With this wide variety of foods, one might wonder how this program is possible. Greek yogurt for 75 cents? Inconceivable! The subsidization of products is attainable through the South Dakota Health and Wellness Grant and

Child and Nutrition Services Enterprise Fund. Both pay for the staffing of the carts and help to lower the prices of items as much as possible. The only hope is that students will use this opportunity to eat healthier food since it is available at such a low price. “It takes awhile for kids to actually remember that [the cart] is there and to take advantage of it,” said Val Fox, LHS principal. These “Grab-n-Go” carts will be available daily for the rest of the school year from 7:15 to 8:00 a.m. outside of the cafeteria. Students can pay with both cash and their school lunch accounts. If the program is determined a success by April 2015, “Grab-n-Go” breakfast could be here to stay.

NEWS

Statesman

The Statesman is a student newspaper created at Lincoln High School, Sioux Falls Public Schools, 2900 S. Cliff Ave., Sioux Falls, SD 57105. The Statesman office is located in room A400. The phone number is 605-367-7998. The Statesman’s purpose is to inform and entertain with an honest and accurate approach. The opinions of students, staff members and faculty are expressed in a tasteful manner. The Statesman is a member of the National Scholastic Press Association, the Columbia Scholastic Press Association and is a winner of the George H. Gallup award for “…distinctive achievements in scholastic journalism.” The Statesman was awarded a Pacemaker in 2007 and was nominated for the 2012-2013 year. The editors and adviser take responsibility for the content of the Statesman. Follow the Statesman on Twitter and Instagram with the handle @lhsstatesman and “like” the LHS Statesman Facebook page. Editors-in-Chief: Ellen Koester* and Sara Jane Teal* News Editor: Alexa Ankrum* Feature Editor: Erin Daugherty* Opinion Editor: Mikaela Neubauer* Sports Editor: Dylan Hall* Entertainment Editor: Ellie Brecht* Social Media Coordinator: Anna Stritecky Meet the Varsity: Bella Thome* Photographers: Joe Hiatt* and Sydney Miller Staff Members: Lizzie Archer, Alisha Auen, Maddy Hackett, Will Hannemann, Brooke Phillips, Madison Rost, Allison Metzger, Swetha Saravanan, Sydney Sweeter and Kade Walker* Grammar Consultant: Maddie Dixon Adviser: Katie Kroeze Assistant Adviser: Charnelle Wooledge *Indicates all-state journalists

NEWS

STATESMAN | December 12, 2014

LHS students show their creativity through “Read” posters

By Sydney Sweeter In past years, the LHS librarians have made the “Read” posters that adorn the walls of the LHS library. This year, students in Janet Kolb’s Web Page Design class were given the opportunity to let their creative juices flow and create these posters. The posters this year have everything on them from LHS staff and students dressed up during Homecoming week, to students in AP Latin posing with a mannequin. LHS senior Micah McCoy was one of the students who created a poster. McCoy included a picture of herself dressed up as Tinkerbell and LHS junior Samara Green dressed up as Peter Pan. “I really liked this project because I got to be creative,” said McCoy. “I felt like this project actually had a purpose and I wasn’t just copying an activity out of a book.” Mark Rotert, LHS sophomore, created the AP Latin “Read” poster. Rotert worked hard to include many different people in his poster. He also added the Colosseum in the background and foreground. “The hardest part was deciding where to put

Photos Provided by Lhs Library

everything,” said Rotert. “Once I figured out where everything was going, I was able to finish my poster in 30 minutes.”

Another student who created a poster this year is LHS freshman Kobe Veland. Veland created the poster featuring LHS sophomore Danielle

Kenyon dressed as a cat and riding a broomstick. “I really liked this project because it allowed me to be creative,” said Veland. “I got to put what I wanted to on the poster, and what I thought would look best.” LHS freshman Brendan Pace’s “Read” poster is unique. It features the new LHS vice principal, Lance Luitjens reading a book under an umbrella on a rainy day. “Making the text fit in with the background was really hard for me,” said Pace. “But once I made it fit, I liked putting everything on top of the background and making the poster.” The “Incredibles” poster was made by LHS senior Ky Uthe. Uthe decided to include LHS senior Kenisha Harper and LHS teacher Beth Slowey dressed as the Incredibles. “The hardest part would be trying to find pictures to go along with their outfits and what they look like,” said Uthe. “I really liked getting to pick the people that I got to put on my poster.” The posters made by students can be found around the walls of the LHS library. Every student who made a poster was extremely creative, and their creativity and hard work are evident in their one-of-a-kind posters.

The 2013-2014 National Merit Scholar Semifinalists at LHS

By Lizzie Archer LHS has a lot to be proud of this year with outstanding athletic performances, riveting fine arts productions and adding to the tower of excellence, eight seniors were awarded as National Merit Scholar semifinalists this past September. National Merit Scholarship is a corporation that allows high school students to be recognized for their academic ability by colleges and secondary educational institutes. Within the entire US, 1.5 million high school students enter the competition in hopes of receiving Merit Scholarship awards, or special scholarships based off of their exceptional academic performance. Schools can grant scholarships that range anywhere on the spectrum from $1,000 to a full ride. Every year, juniors are presented the opportunity to take the PSAT, which is a prelim or practice test to the well-known college entrance exam, the SAT. The PSAT has the ability to predict how well one will do on either the SAT or the ACT. The ultimate score one can receive is a 230, and the test combines critical reading, math and writing skills into a cumulative score. According to David Myers, LHS counselor, LHS students that earn the honor typically receive a score of 203 or higher.

Photo by Joe hiatt

From left: Seniors, Cole Purdy, Zach Schmitz, Nathan VanDenOever, Will Lauer, Jared Bitz, Hanna Bankers, Sophie Richardson and Kaitlin Olson.

The eight seniors who took the exam as a junior in 2013, and have earned the title of semifinalists of 2014 are Hannah Bankers, Jared Bitz, Will Lauer, Kaitlin Olson, Cole Purdy, Sophie Richardson, Zach Schmitz and Nathan VanDenOever. Once selected as a semifinalist, the eight seniors will have to complete a string of tasks in order to

fully qualify for a finalist position. “Once you’re a semifinalist, they have to take the SAT,” said Myers. “That’s part of becoming the finalist. Also, when they are a semifinalist, there is an application they need to fill out, an essay and their counselor needs to write a recommendation letter for them.”

LHS has a very prestigious past when it comes to academic performance, and these eight have worked hard to move up the scholastics scale. The test administrators of exams such as the PSAT, SAT and ACT are a ruthless species, and qualifying for a National Merit Scholarship is competitive. “We have a list of so many kids that are so close to getting on,” said Myers. “For instance, there was a senior boy who missed it by one point. It’s really a tight competition, and every question counts. So when students do take the test, they need to make sure they put their best effort forth on every question. They just can’t give up.” As for these euphoric eight, there is nothing but great excitement and hope for what is ahead on their journey to a secondary educational institute. Whether they become a finalist or not, there will be scholarships awarded for their terrific academic performance. LHS staff and administrators beam with pride when it comes to the students who put forth effort and dedication into their education. “We just have a proud tradition here of students doing very well on this test. Students just really are focused, and really just want to give us their best efforts,” said Myers. “That’s really all we can ask for. They should be very proud of their accomplishments even if they didn’t make the semifinalist list.”

FEATURE

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Quotes heard in the LHS hallways

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DID YOU KNOW? South Dakota high school juniors and seniors

Throwback Christmas Lists

Teenagers then Teacher Kyle Dietz -CD player (2000) Teacher Karen Wunder -Maroon down feather coat (1983) Teacher Mary Coyne -A cassette recorder (1979) Principal Val Fox -Pair of four-wheel roller skates (1969) Teacher Sue Bull -Curling iron (1975)

Questionable Quotes

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STATESMAN | December 12, 2014

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“Purdaho-it’s like Paris and Idaho combined!”

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“Honkity, honk honk, I’m a goose!”

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“If there was a zombie apocalypse, we are going to my house.”

“Do you think Abraham Lincoln is hot?”

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“And that was the last time I ever ate a Danish.”

6 FEATURE Five things to do over Winter Break STATESMAN | December 12, 2014

BY ALISHA AUEN New vice principal is already making a positive

and faculty after being at LHS for one semester

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1. Sledding and Ice Skating

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If you do not mind bundling up in your warmest clothes, head out to Tuthill or Spellerberg for some sledding and ice skating. You can rent ice skates or bring your own, but the rink and hill is free for use.

3. Cirque Du Soleil PHO TO P

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Looking for some entertainment over the holidays? Come enjoy Cirque Du Soleil: Varekai. The show takes you through a captivating forest inhabited by whimsical and enchanted creatures. The show is Dec. 11 through Dec. 14 at the Denny Stanford PREMIER center. Tickets range from $40 to $150.

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4. Christmas Light Lanes PH

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Drive down the streets in Sioux Falls and explore some Christmas decor at Candy Cane Lane, Elf Lane or Christmas Card Lane. Each lane has a theme and the exterior of the houses are decorated to fit the theme. You can find a map with all the streets on it at dakotaholidays.com.

2. Falls Park Winter Wonderland

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5. WWE Live The Main Event is coming to the Denny Stanford PREMIER Center. Come enjoy the WWE live show on Dec. 21. Tickets range from $22 to $105.

LHS Teacher Feature

New vice principal making positive impact on students and faculty after being at LHS for one semester

BY SYDNEY SWEETER Although vice principal Lance Luitjens might be new to LHS, he is not new to the education system. With six years of teaching at various high schools such as Vermillion High School, Custer High School, a high school in Winsch, Colo., and 12 years of being an administrator under his belt, Luitjens knows how to effectively run a school. Besides being involved in the education system, he was on the U-16 U.S. basketball team, a select team representing the U.S., and played eight basketball games in the Soviet Union as a junior in high school. Luitjens has two daughters, Brooke, who is a sophomore at RHS, and Somer, who is an eighth grader at Memorial Middle School. This is Brooke’s first year attending a high school that her father does not work at. “My sophomore daughter was at the same school as me last year, and she wanted to have her own identity and not be the principal’s daughter,” said Luitjens. “I think that she will be able to blossom at Roosevelt without having the identity of the principal’s daughter. I am also best friends from high school with the principal from Roosevelt, so it was an easy place to pick.”

is just something After graduating special about from Custer High LHS that he has School in western not experienced S.D., Luitjens atat any other high tended and graduated school he has from Northern State worked at. University in Aber“By far, for deen, where he played me, I would say on the basketball the spirit of Linteam. In high school, coln is the best Luitjens was involved part so far,” said in almost every activLuitjens. “I like ity available to stuhow everybody dents, from sports to rallies around evdrama, Luitjens parerybody, no matticipated in it. ter if it’s march“I was in basketball ing band or and football; those were my two main PHOTO BY SYDNEY MILLER football. It seems like Lincoln sports,” said Luitjens. Luitjens holds a picture of himself dunking is like a really “I was also heavily while playing in a basketball game at Northclose family.” involved in choir and ern State University. Luitjens has swing choir. I was also in plays, musicals, Student Council and Oral always had an interest in administration, which is one of the reasons why he decided Interp.” Even though Luitjens has only been at LHS to become an administrator. Besides having for a few months, he already loves it. There an interest in it, Luitjens wanted to leave his

BY BELLA THOME Rapping and football are two completely unrelated extracurricular activities, but LHS junior Mato Standing Soldier has found a way to bring the two together. Standing Soldier not only intertwines the two activities, but has also learned how to find the time to be dedicated to both equally. “It’s hard to find time to do both of them and to commit to them equally,” said Standing Soldier. “One time I was working on a song and I was getting really into it, and then I realized I only had five minutes to get to practice.” Rapping has been a part of Standing Soldier’s life from a very young age, and still continues to be a part of his life today. “I started rapping in fourth grade. I did Student Council raps to get the weekly messages across, I would go in front of the class and just rap,” said Standing Soldier. Different people find inspiration in different ways. He has found his inspiration in rappers and other forms of music. Musicians Stand-

ing Soldier is most influenced by are Mos Def, Frank Ocean, Earl Sweatshirt, Andre 3000 and MF Doom. He also finds his inspiration in reggae music. “As a child my parents would always play reggae. I can find inspiration in most music, but it depends on the singer. I just remember always listening to reggae,” said Standing Soldier. When writing songs, he does not work alone. Standing Soldier gets his beats from the help of friends, or by just looking them up on YouTube. “I write my own songs,” said Standing Soldier. “I usually sit down in comfortable clothes and I scrupulously look through YouTube and find some beats. Or I have either Mason Nelson or Ash Bates make me some. Depending on what mood I am in, I center my words around that. I never write lyrics before I have a beat.” Standing Soldier and his family know that there is something that sets him apart from other local rappers and musicians.

footprint on more than just a select number of students. “My dad was a principal, and so I had an interest in it because of him,” said Luitjens. “But for me, it was probably a way to have a bigger impact on people, and not just students in my classroom.” Throughout his life, Luitjens has learned many lessons. There is one lesson in particular, though that Luitjens wants all his students to know. “The quicker you learn to stop making excuses, the quicker you can completely take ownership for everything in your life,” said Luitjens. Luitjens loves being an administrator, and one part about being an administrator really stands out to him. “I love how everyday is something new,” said Luitjens. “It’s a new challenge and I get to have a different kind of impact on kids and teachers than I did when I was a teacher.” Students and faculty are connecting with Luitjens as an administrator, and he has not even been at LHS for one semester. Luitjens has been a fantastic addition to LHS, making LHS a better place to learn and work at every day.

Standing Soldier: rapping and wrapping up

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Falls Park is putting on their 12th Annual Winter Wonderland. The park will be decked out in Christmas colors and nearly 355, 926 Christmas lights. Hop in the car with your family and take a drive through Falls Park for some free Christmas fun.

FEATURE

STATESMAN | December 12, 2014

“I have shown my family other local stuff and they kind of laughed at it,” said Standing Soldier. “They said my stuff was good and that I have more to talk about than other people. I have pain and family history. I have baggage.” Rapping is not a priority in this young rapper’s future, but he would still like to keep it in his options. “I am trying not to have my future be one-dimensional,” said Standing Soldier. “I hope I can get local recognition for my rapping, and I would like to open for well-known people or even get my own set. My main goal is to get some recognition.” Standing Soldier has not come out with an album yet but is planning to have a mixtape out

and ready before the end of 2014. The project will contain 14 or 15 songs, and he is hoping this will increase his fan base. “I don’t know if people listen to my songs in their free time, but there are people that support me in what I do. I would say there is a fan base, but I am looking for more,” said Standing Soldier. Inspiration is a key part of rapping, and many famous rappers have made it big in the music industry by using their own life experiences. He hopes he can influence others with his own life decisions. “There are no better rhymes than others. Everything’s crispy and elegant. There is no bad music, and no bad days,” said Standing Soldier.

PHOTO BY SYDNEY MILLER

FEATURE

STATESMAN | December 12, 2014

Top 5 most popular books checked out in the LHS library

Society is cut into five factions; Abnegation, the selfless, Dauntless, the brave, Candor, the honest, Erudite, the intelligent and Amity, the peaceful. In dystopian Chicago, Beatrice Prior, nicknamed “Tris,” and all of the other 16-year-olds, including her brother, are required to make the biggest decision of their lives, which faction best suits them. Should she stay loyal to her family, or surprise everyone by joining a new faction?

After waking up in an elevator shaft, Thomas cannot remember anything but his name. In the Glade, Thomas is surrounded by a group of boys who arrived one at a time, with supplies to last them until the next arrival. The Glade is surrounded by a huge labyrinth that changes every night. Runners start early in the morning, and try to map out the maze and get back before sunset. The next to arrive is a girl, with a terrifying message.

Mia is a gorgeous teenage girl, with a loving family and a bright future because of her musical talents. On a seemingly normal day, her life takes a turn for the worse, when her family is involved in a tragic accident. Her boyfriend, Adam, a handsome, older, musically talented band member sparks up her tragic life.

BY MADISON ROST

After being diagnosed with a case of terminal thyroid cancer, Hazel Grace cannot find a reason to be motivated. At a Cancer Kid Support Group, she meets Augustus Waters, a former basketball player who lost his leg to cancer. He flips her world upside down. Through him, she finds a better reason to live and; therefore, a better meaning to her life.

Best friends, Olivia and Zoe, have always had big plans after high school. They both wanted to live in Manhattan and tour the world as ballerinas; however, after being cut from the elite ballet school in New York, they both try to keep a positive attitude. Zoe cannot picture anything worse than being cut from the school, until Olivia becomes terribly ill. The only thing that helps keep Zoe’s outlook positive, is that she knows that Olivia will beat this disease. SCREENSHOTS PROVIDED BY JOE HIATT

LHS student prepares to celebrate two holidays in one season BY BROOKE PHILLIPS

December is a month filled with winter weather, warm sweaters and the joyous holiday season. When most people think of the holiday season, Christmas is the only holiday that they think about. However, for LHS senior Torrey Eirinberg, the holiday season includes more than just Christmas and brightly lit trees; it includes both Christmas and Hanukkah. Being raised by a mother who is Christian and a father who is Jewish, Eirinberg has had the privilege to have grown up having both religions in her life, as well as celebrating the two separate holidays that come along with each religion. “My sisters and I grew up going to church as Catholic, and I don’t actually go to a temple,” said Eirinberg. “We celebrate Hanukkah with my dad and his family though to respect his religion.” Along with her immediate family, Eirinberg’s extended family has also shared some of the same religions that her immediate family lives with every day.

“My dad’s brother also married a Catholic woman,” said Eirinberg. “They used to celebrate both holidays as well, but his wife became Jewish. However, all of my mom’s side of the family only celebrates Christmas.” Just like any other holiday, Eirinberg celebrates Hanukkah with family traditions. “For Hanukkah we have a seasonal dinner that all of my dad’s side of the family gets together for,” said Eirinberg. “Our traditional Hanukkah food includes brisket, farfalle, spritz cookies and other seasonal foods. I also celebrate by opening presents and lighting the Menorah candle every night.” Eirinberg is also lucky enough to have holiday traditions for Christmas that come shortly after Hanukkah. “We always have family Christmas parties and we have present exchanges,” said Eirinberg. “On Christmas day, we always

have a dinner with just my family. We always have a ham or a ton of holiday food, as well as baked goods. We also all watch Christmas movies together.” Although Hanukkah and Christmas are two separate holidays, there are many similarities between both of them. “We open presents for both holidays and the different sides of my family gets together during both of them,” said Eirinberg. “The family all comes into town, and we all are able to spend time with each other. Also, Hanukkah and Christmas are both the most celebrated holidays in each religion.” Celebrating a holiday also means decorating and spreading the holiday spirit inside and outside of the house for all of the family to enjoy.

PHOTO BY SYDNEY MILLER

“There isn’t as much decorating for Hanukkah, it’s just the Menorah and we light a different candle each night,” said Eirinberg. “But for Christmas, we decorate the tree with lights and we usually go full out with Christmas. We also always wait to put up the tree until Hanukkah is over, because Christmas comes after Hanukkah. It’s hard not to be anxious though to get all of the Christmas decorations put up.” Eirinberg does not know many other students at LHS who celebrate Hanukkah, let alone Hanukkah and Christmas. She also does not know other LHS students who celebrate two different holidays at all, during any time of the year. However, Eirinberg has learned a lot from being able to grow up with both in her life. “Celebrating both holidays teaches me to respect everyone else’s religions other than just my own religion,” said Eirinberg. “It’s a really good experience because not many other people are able to experience two different holidays in both religions.”

OP/ED

STATESMAN | December 12, 2014

Ellen De’Genius

Boring, winter days do not have to feel like they were wasted

By EllEn KoEstEr, Editor-in-chiEf “There are 104 days of summer vacation and school comes along just to end it. So the annual problem of our generation is finding a good way to spend it…” Sound familiar? Did anyone read that in song? This is the beginning of the theme song of the 2007 hit Disney TV show, “Phineas and Ferb” about two boys trying to pack as much meaning into their summer days as possible through such elaborate activities such as building a roller coaster or filming a game show. These silly-named boys are on a mission to keep their school-free days from slipping down the drain. “Phineas and Ferb” was my little brother’s favorite TV show when it began, although his tastes have since devolved to the likes of “The Amazing World of Gumball” and “Dog with a Blog.” However, when “Phineas and Ferb” graced our living room TV screen, there wasn’t a member of our family who didn’t know how long summer vacation was down to the day. Although the show is distinctly unrealistic, it puts an emphasis on being outside with friends and spending one’s days in creative ways. Phineas and Ferb were rarely shown watching TV (although, the only way to keep up with their adventures is to watch TV) or playing a video game, unless they were making their own through the help of a musical montage. In 2007 and in the years since, the great American pastime has changed from baseball to screen time. My brother has little interest in football, unless it is a virtual one. He dominates at “Madden NFL 15,” but drags his feet to

flag football practice. But everyone has heard the anti-screen rant. The “only two hours of screens a day or your eyes will melt out of your skull” or “don’t watch too much TV or you’ll be permanently stupid” rants. Well, a few rounds of the iPhone app, 2048 or an episode or two of “The Office” is not going to do any harm. No one has ever gotten cancer from talking on a cell phone. No one has ever gone blind from sitting too close to the TV screen. And, no one has ever caught stupidity from too many “Spongebob” reruns, although I think some of you came pretty darn close.

“While an afternoon of Netflix and Tumblr may seem appealing, it feels like an afternoon of nothing. ” My only problem with spending hours in front of a computer or TV is that it makes the day feel like it was wasted. While an afternoon of Netflix and Tumblr may seem appealing, it feels like an afternoon of nothing. Christmas is coming up (yes, the C-word that has been plastered everywhere since the second the Thanksgiving turkey was carved) and with it comes the two weeks of winter break. For many students, it may be two full weeks of wasted days spent running down pedestrians on “GTA V.” There are easy ways to made those two weeks meaningful. The easiest of these is to move from the couch to the treadmill or trade

the Xbox controller for a free weight. Exercise not only combats obesity, but also boredom and in many cases, it can be very beneficial for those suffering from depression. Walking for 35 minutes a day, five days a week will cause all these chemicals inside one’s brain, such as endorphins and norepinephrines and other things with long scientific names, to activate and significantly help those with mild depression, according to Harvard Health Publications. Exercise generally lifts one’s mood and gives a feeling of accomplishment. This is true for everyone, not only those suffering from depression or too-much-TV-itis. Basically, the more one sweats, the better one will mentally feel. Another cure for the aforementioned and made-up disease is being social. I am not mak-

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ing a reference to Social Media, but actual reallive interactions with creatures of our same species. Get out of the house and do something with others. Try being an extrovert instead of a introvert. Being an introvert is easier, but it does not create happy, high school memories. Memories with friends are much more dear than memories of eating food and watching movies alone. Helping others ties in with being social and is even more meaningful. Find some time to help out a sibling or friend with their school work or help a neighbor get rid of the white stuff on their driveway. Churches and the SALSA organization at LHS always offer volunteer opportunities. Here is a helpful hint: volunteering and mission trips look very nice on a college application. Lastly, be productive. Clean something. Get some homework in on time. Finish reading that book that was due a few weeks ago. Although these activities and those like them are not fun, they still leave one with a sense of accomplishment. And, most importantly, whatever homework that is completed on Friday, will not have to be done at two in the morning the day before it is due. Due tomorrow doesn’t mean do tomorrow. Through these small actions, a day will feel like it meant something rather than like it was wasted. Take a hint from the triangle-headed Phineas and make every day, not just schoolfree breaks, matter.

OP/ED OP/ED

STATESMAN | December 12, 2014

Ebola overblown: Extensive coverage of the disease is unnecessary

By ElliE BrEcht, Staff WritEr According to the Center for Disease Control, 7.6 million people die a year from cancer, 53,800 from secondhand smoke and 40,000 from car crashes in the U.S. alone, yet we are frightened by the Ebola virus which has in contrast affected merely four U.S. citizens and has so far included only one death. Don’t get me wrong, I do not wish Ebola on anyone nor do I wish it was present in the U.S. or anywhere else, but what I do believe, is that we, as a society, need to reevaluate how much importance we put on this issue. It seems as though a disease that has mistakenly been brought into our country and has affected such a small amount of people, should not take over every aspect of media in our society. Newspapers, Twitter timelines and everything in between has been and still is to some degree, filled with “everything Ebola.” Besides all of the social media uproar about Ebola, there are also constant jokes cracked about the disease, for example, if someone sneezes or coughs then “they better wash their hands and stay away because they probably have Ebola!”

Even something as simple as a cough or a runny nose is chalked up to being Ebola by everyday U.S. citizens, when in reality it was only a flu symptom or a cold. This may seem ridiculous that people in the U.S. have been paranoid to the extent of thinking these minor symptoms are so much more than what they are, but with the amount of “Ebola talk” being thrown at us from every direction by the media, it is almost hard not to. It is expected that when there is a possibil-

“...we should be notified and take reasonable precautions to avoid this. ” ity for an outbreak of a deadly disease, that we remain notified and take reasonable precautions to avoid it. But the fact is that the few U.S. Ebola victims we do have, were and still are extremely quarantined so that there is very little chance of them passing on the disease,

in addition to the fact that it can only be exchanged through bodily fluids, should put the paranoia to rest. There is no telling why the media has portrayed Ebola as such a phenomenon considering it has been around for many years, but many believe it is an attempt to distract the U.S. citizens from the other troubling issues in the national government systems. When there is a serious issue that the government doesn’t necessarily want us to know much about, it seems that the media does what they can to keep it from us, or very subtly inform us or, most often, down playing the issue so there are no outrages concerning them or the issue at hand; however, that tends to scare me a little bit, considering the media can influence what we know. In no way am I attempting to downplay the effects of Ebola, especially considering that it can be a deadly disease, but rather I am addressing the level at which the media in our country has portrayed this issue to U.S. citizens. It is fair to say that most of the citizens never thought they would be politely interrogated at the doctor’s office simply because

of flu or cold symptoms, on whether or not they have been to certain countries in Africa, or around anyone who has had Ebola. Aside from the fact that it may or may not be blown

“It seems as though a disease that has mistakenly been brought into our country and has affected such a small amount of people, should not take over every aspect of media in our society.” out of proportion, it is fair to say that our country is on top of things, and thoroughly equipped in the case of additional Ebola victims in the U.S., to say the least. Although many believe that the constant talk of the Ebola issue has been a bit much, I do feel appreciative to live in a place where precautions are able to be taken; especially considering the possible consequences of the disease’s presence if we did not live in a technologically and medically advanced country.

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Bullying: An overused term among today’s society

By Swetha Saravanan, Staff writer

When I was young, I was told that it was wrong to tattletale. Teachers and other students would complain that tattletaling was a nuisance. Insignificant fights over who deserved to be server in foursquare or verbal accusations on who cut in front of the lunch line were frowned upon in elementary school. However, now that everyone I grew up with is older, they have be-

“The general public is now classifying everyone as a bully when something wrong is being done or said.” come more aware and sensitive when there is a possibility of hurting others. People no longer say degrading remarks to someone’s face; whenever there is something that needs to be said, it is usually done behind a person’s back.

Programs have been enforced to help students control bullying. They include discussions of the cause and effect of bullying as well as videos providing information on how to deal with sticky situations involving bullying However, friendly bickering and the natural tendencies of humans are beginning to be considered as bullying as well. The term “bullying” is being overused. StopBullying.com defines bullying as making threats, spreading rumors, attacking someone physically or orally and excluding someone from a group on purpose. All these actions are done over and over. The general public is now classifying everyone as a bully when something wrong is being done or said. A friend jokingly teasing someone or somebody lashing out after a bad day is often times reported to be bullying. There is always some tension between people who are not alike. When disagreements occur and are expressed, they should not be termed as bullying. Making false or less important claims repeatedly demeans the seriousness of the issue. Everybody is bound to experience domineering in one way or another; it is a part of

life. Just because feelings are shown against someone else’s views does not make it “bullying.” If no disagreements occurred, life would be boring and the entire emotion of anger would vanish.

seems to agree with our own. However, with that being said, there is a danger of thinking only about our own perceptions and giving the logic of the different arguments a cursory glance.

the city and are therefore not meant to be used to express any religious beliefs. On the other hand, some have argued that because the city knowingly put the Lutheran schools in charge of painting the plows, the students should be able to paint whatever they want on them, as long as it is appropriate, but that’s the magic word isn’t it? Appropriate. People in power decide what forms of freedom of speech are ‘appropriate,’ and in American history, they have made some questionable decisions about it that we just accept. Probably the most famous example is when we put “In God We Trust” on our dollar bills, even though they are public currency. Many people have noted the hypocrisy of this, but since the government officials who were originally in charge of approving the dollar’s design were Christians, the design stayed. Also, there has been a pattern of the U.S. accepting freedom of speech of certain religions more than others. For example, since 9/11 many Muslim-Americans have dealt with bigotry both for their heritage and their religion. So the question still stands, if the schools had painted the plows with Muslim themes,

“Many complain that those accusations have not been addressed, but it is different to discern which event should be dealt with and which ones should be ignored.” On the other hand, there are situations that must be dealt with, and those should be prioritized. Students who are actually bullied are taken too lightly. In some high schools, students are made fun of in addition to dealing with a lack of self-esteem. The misery felt by the victim after being degenerated every day mentally or physically is intense. Those who are bullied

are helpless and have no way of defending themselves. The situation may end with selfharm or worse, suicide. Meanwhile, if an unwanted comment is said, there is an opportunity to defend oneself. Stating that every casual dispute is an imbalance in power is very insensitive to the victims. Bullying usually occurs due to insecurities on the parts of the bully and the victim. It is not the result of an unkind look given by the his/ her peer last month. In other words, bullying develops over a rather long period of time and the effects are more substantial. Schools face the problem of bullying almost on a daily basis. They offer anonymous boxes to report bullying. Many complain that those accusations have not been addressed, but it is difficult to discern which event should be dealt with and which ones should be ignored. Especially considering the weighty consequences. If someone decides that they don’t like another person, he/she may place a name in one of the bully boxes. Most of the time the issue is made up bigger than it is. Hopefully, the overuse of the term will be used far less in the near future.

Religion showdown: Be informed before taking sides

By alexa ankrum, Staff writer

AugustAnA

STATESMAN | December 12, 2014

It is almost a flashback of “Footloose” (or its less than amusing remake), where there is a controversy in a Midwest town over what is considered appropriate. However, in this case the battle over ‘propriety’ is between the Siouxland Freethinkers and the city of Sioux Falls. On Oct. 28, The Argus Leader ran a story about the Siouxland Freethinkers criticizing the annual “paint the plows” event because of the strong Christian overtones of the artwork. Students at Lutheran High School of Sioux Falls and Sioux Falls Lutheran School paint snow plows every year and up until this year, there has not been a major complaint about the plows. The city has claimed that the plows will remain as they are this year because the schools do not have time to paint over the plows before winter comes. Most people who read the story or were involved in the conflict, likely formed their opinions on the subject fairly quickly. They jumped directly to one side or the other because when it comes to issues that involve what we consider to be our “fundamental beliefs,” we tend to go directly to the side that

“Most people who read the story or were i nv ol v ed. . l i kel y formed their opinions on the subject fairly quickly.” In the Freethinkers vs. Lutheran schools dilemma, some believed that the Freethinkers were overreacting when they said that painting the plows with Christian themes was offensive. However, one has to wonder, if the plows had been painted with words like “Vishnu is all,” then would everyone in Sioux Falls say it was appropriate? The reason why some people believe that painting the plows is considered a violation of the separation between church and state is because the plows are owned by

would all of the communities in Sioux Falls accept it? The truth is, issues of freedom of speech and the separation of church and state are rarely black and white, even though people often act as though they are. People have to look closely at both sides of an argument and then weigh their decision, not just rush directly to one side simply because it has the

“The truth is, issues of freedom of speech and the separation of church and state are rarely black and white, even though people often act as though they are. ” name of their religion stamped on it or simply because it opposes a group they have not agreed with in the past. People have the right to form their own opinions; they should just make sure they are informed opinions.

OP/ED

STATESMAN | December 12, 2014

Skills are more important than seniority for varsity sports

By AlishA Auen, stAff Writer Everyone knows the seniority rule, and it definitely comes into play when choosing varsity athletes. However, is it fair that seniors get a free pass to the varsity team, simply because they are the top dogs of the school? Or should the varsity team members simply be the best of the best, no matter their age? Coaches have the option to bump underclassmen up to the varsity team when they prove themselves to be above average players.

“Freshman can play on varsity, even though this is a rare occurrence...” Freshman can play on varsity, even though this is a very rare occurrence in sports like basketball, football, soccer and volleyball. It is com-

mon for cross country and track to have many freshmen and even middle schoolers running on the varsity team. This is because girls, in particular, are often faster when they are ages 11, 12 and 13. Also, in these sports they have so many spots to fill, due to all the different events. They can afford to fill some up with underclassmen. However, in sports like basketball where only five players play at a time, the case is much different. It is unlikely that underclassmen get bumped up in sports like this, but when it does happen, there is always trash talk about it from upperclassmen. Although varsity teams are supposed to be the most elite, seniors should get some playing time even if their skill level is lacking a little. If they are returning seniors, who have persisted with the sport throughout their previous three years of high school, they definitely deserve some recognition. It is only fair. Seniors should get their fair share of playing time, but only if they are willing to work for it. Positions can’t just be handed out, even if they

are for seniors. The goal for a varsity competing team is to win, and to do that they not only need the best players, but the hardest workers. For dance and cheer, teams are even smaller and seniority doesn’t seem to apply as much as it does for other sports. With competitive dance and cheer, there is only one performance

achievement for the third time. What makes OGHS so different from the rest of the Sioux Falls local schools? I ventured into one of the three private high schools in town for a full day, seeing if the “Blue Ribbon Standard” is truly what it is hyped up to be. Even though South Dakota may be considered a very conservative and religious state, many of the public schools prohibit any type of display of religious motifs, or even the talking about the subject of Christianity. But alas, the first activity that started out the day at OGHS was a prayer led by one of the members of the student body. Is the rule of religion the main reason why students are led to do better in school? According to SSRC Religion, students that attend a religious-based school that also have a tuition, are more likely to do better because they were placed in a school for a reason, versus the alternative option of having to go to the nearest public school near the student’s home. This subject of religion is also thought to be a catalyst for good behavior, by having presence of a high power in one’s life. As I continued throughout the day, I realized that I was the one that didn’t belong in this high school. For example, every one of their students followed a dress code of khaki pants,

a collared shirt and closed toed, solid colored leather shoes, while I was sporting a jean jacket and skirt. I figured that OGHS would have at least some similarities to LHS, but I couldn’t find a single one, down to the size of the hallways. The teachers had a different teaching style in a way where it is was more of a lecturebased lesson, a phone would be taken away solely for the sight of it in their backpack, a strict dress code was applied and they even

“The goal for a varsity competing team is to win, and to do that they not only need the best players, but the hardest workers.” to win it all or lose it all. They can’t switch players in and out. They are either on the dance floor or in the stands. This is unfortunate for seniors because they can get cut from the team, just like everyone else. Even in band there are seniority issues. They have a section leader for each instrument

group, which is usually based off seniority. However, they are not going to put an irresponsible senior in charge of the whole section. This means it is possible for a junior and the very rare sophomore to be a section leader. In that case the leader is chosen because of skill and leadership qualities. Although this should be considered fair, many seniors get upset over having a junior or sophomore in charge of them. This is understandable because as a senior students expect to be the one in charge. Despite this, it is also good to have underclassmen learn the roles before their senior year. This helps build the program for years to come and gives the upperclassmen a goal to work for. Many students want to be a leader. It is quite clear that, although seniority is important, it doesn’t apply to varsity sports. The coaches take the top players, so they can create a winning team. As much as some would like to give seniors the spots on the varsity team, that doesn’t always happen. In the end the hard workers are the ones who win.

The relevance and truth behind the “Blue Ribbon” hype

By AnnA striteckey, stAff Writer

Today let the subject be about school. Ironic, is it not? Instead of history, or an English and algebra lesson, the subject of the school system specifically and as a whole is most relevant right now. This past September, the U.S. Department of Education announced a list of 48 high schools in the nation that scored in the top 15 percent of education, along with outstanding hard work of students, educators, families and communities in creating safe and welcoming

“What makes

OGHS so different from the rest of the Sioux Falls local schools? ” schools where students master challenging content, putting the label of “Blue Ribbon Schools” on them. Now, why is this subject of school itself more relevant than learning chemistry? Because just a couple miles down from LHS, Sioux Falls O’Gorman High School was awarded this

“Serving only 700 students OGHS has the upper-hand in specializing to their students needs.” took a break in the middle of the day from scheduled class for Wednesday Mass. Despite these differences, I still wasn’t sure what made this certain group of students better than the rest of the public schools. Even through all the changes, church services and education, it had seemed the students conducted themselves in a way that was the same as students at LHS.

Then, I suddenly had the epiphany that I had been waiting for all day; OGHS is about a third of the size of LHS. Serving only 700 students, OGHS has the upper-hand in specializing to their student’s needs. OGHS has more resources and time to pay special attention to those who might have failed a test, missed school or other things of that nature. If we took LHS’ top 700 students, could we also be a Blue Ribbon School? All in all, I realized that LHS could potentially have an equal chance at this prestigious title, and we should not worry too much that we weren’t in the running. The Blue Ribbon Association does not take into account the students that have special needs, just moved here from a foreign country and are illiterate or kids that have had a delinquent background that wouldn’t be able to attend OGHS like they would at LHS, when handing out their award. These factors, plus our larger student to teacher ratio and limited state-funded resources (along with other factors) give OGHS the upper hand for being nominated for this award. LHS has an outstanding tradition of excellence, with a record of high test scores, top-notch sports and music programs to be proud of. Plus, I think if I attended OGHS full-time, I would miss my

OP/ED

STATESMAN | December 12, 2014

Popular Internet hoaxes: Which sources actually tell the truth?

By Madison Rost, staff WRiteR Jennifer Aniston is getting married? And she lost her engagement ring? There’s an Ebola patient at the hospital in Rapid City? Macaulay Culkin from “Home Alone” has passed away? According to the website, Internet Live Statistics, there are currently 3 billion Internet users, and the number is rapidly increasing; therefore, many hoaxes about popular celebrities, the Ebola outbreak and much, much more are circulating the Internet trying to find their next gullible victim. Popular websites such as FeedNewz and Wikipedia are sources of the common hoaxes. Almost everyone knows that anybody is able to edit those types of websites. If anyone does a simple Google search of “FeedNewz,” the first link says “don’t be fooled by FeedNewz posts,” so, before retweeting or sharing an article that sounds almost too good to be true, check the credentials. Many celebrities have started to make fun of the rumors about themselves. For instance, Jennifer Aniston said “I haven’t read this week what’s happening with us, so I have

to look into it,” when talking about her wedding plans with fiance Justin Theroux. In the latest news about Aniston and Theroux, apparently “This week you’re going to elope. You’re going to go to Tavarua. It’s a surf wedding …” according to Rob Estes from Huff-

By Kade WalKeR, staff WRiteR As a child, I learned that my mother, commonly known as Dr. Walker, (LHS teacher of AP Language and Composition and American Literature), could actually be a rapper, instead of an English teacher. She would laugh at this insane notion. Due to a phase when I endlessly-watched slam poetry on YouTube, I gained a better understanding of poetry by listening to rappers like

music is actually a specific style of poetry. When music is called “fire” on Twitter or Social Media, they are actually saying that the song is really good, that the words and lines are poetic. Poetry is simply rhythmic words written or spoken for pleasure, drama or elevated thoughts. I don’t claim to be an English scholar, but I’ve listened to enough rap that I feel as if I have learned copious amounts of poetic language from the music. From rap, I have learned that Edgar Allen Poe might have been a crazy-good rapper who spit some of the hottest fire ever heard in the 19th century. If he were alive today, he could make a business of selling his rhymes. His “Nevermore” was probably stuck in everyone’s head back in Baltimore in the 1830s much like “Tuesday” by Drake is now. I learned that Jay-Z’s the “Hard Knock Life” is actually just a beautiful combination of verses of what it’s like to grow up in poverty, and Kid CuDi’s “The Pursuit of Happiness” is all about one man’s struggle to reach a happy place in his life. It can be perceived that every musical artist has a deep poetic side that they put into every track they create. Maybe in a century

“Almost all of today’s teenagers are on at least one Social Media website, which are all available as apps for smartphones.” ington Post. Aniston had no idea that she had her wedding in Tavarua, and she doesn’t even know how to surf. Almost all of today’s teenagers are on at least one kind of social media website, which are all available as apps for smartphones. Twitter, Instagram and the not-so-popular Facebook, are all sources of not factual information being released to the public. There’s

so much entertainment news that nobody can really discern the true facts from the false information. The paparazzi plays a big part in creating rumors about celebrities. They take the pictures, and if something is unusual, they think of what they could say to help make money off of their pictures. People don’t know the authors of the rumors, because they are just general statements being published on the Internet. News sources such as People and Entertainment News seem to release true information and sometimes even joke about rumors spreading across the Internet. However, Stars and TMZ are known for their latest celebrity gossip. After pictures are taken and creative paparazzi come up with stories that seem to be too good to be true, celebrities can sometimes be offended by the rumors. Khloé Kardashian said on her reality TV show, “Keeping Up With The Kardashian’s” that she no longer even goes on the Internet because of all rumors spreading about her divorce involving Lamar Odom. Kardashian doesn’t waste her time learning about what she is “going to do

next week,” when she doesn’t even know it herself. The whole Kardashian family tries not to pay attention to the tabloids that are full of negative rumors.

or two, the English curriculum will involve finding the literary devices that Kendrick

never has anything wrong in it is a lie. Even some published poets talk of in-depth drug experiences and swearing. Also, poetry and rap music both share similar patterns and it’s not a stretch to say that music, especially rap music, are one in the same. Furthermore, it could inferred that all of our English teachers could actually be really outstanding rappers: DJ Jazzy Gunderson and Lil’ Bogart could be expected to drop a mixtape soon, while MC Mager may just be working on a new solo album. English teachers aren’t boring us with Shakespeare; they are giving students an opportunity to listen to the most “fire tracks” of the year 1597. Looking at the roots of music, at least really good music, one can see that it is simply poetry. Don’t be so quick to groan when your English teacher says you’ll be doing poetry today in class, because what he/she is really saying is “Today, we will be listening to soulful rap music while analyzing the verses and looking for the underlying tone of the work.” Enjoy poetry for what it is: music.

“When the information people find on the Internet seems to be true, the sources should be double-checked and see if the claim is from a reliable source.” When the information people find on the Internet seems to good too be true, the sources should be double-checked to determine if the claim is from a reliable source. No, Aniston is not getting married, and she hasn’t lost her wedding ring, Culkin is still alive and enjoying life and there is not an Ebola patient in a Rapid City hospital.

Learning how English teachers spit fire (and what poetry truly is)

“...I stopped seeing music and poetry as polar opposites, and I realized, in fact, that rap music is actually a specific style of poetry.” Kanye West and Childish Gambino, performing spoken word at small poetry readings. From the hours spent watching poetry, I stopped seeing music and poetry as polar opposites, and I realized, in fact, that rap

“From rap, I have learned that Edgar Allen Poe might have been a crazy-good rapper who spit some of the hottest fire ever heard in the 19th century.” Lamar used, or perhaps students will study rhetoric used in Tupac’s melodies. If you think that studying modern hiphop in schools one day is an outlandish attempt for one rap enthusiast to justify the music that he is listening to, consider the following; most legendary literature is controversial at the time, Poe was considered quite morbid and even Shakespeare, whom is considered one of the best playwrights in the history of the English language faced fierce opposition from Puritan laws. The constant criticism of some rap music’s references to drug and alcohol and its often vulgar language, but to say poetry is clean and

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6 WORD STORIES

Messages

“Witnessing worlds through teens’ wondering eyes.” Dr. Karen Walker

“My life is different from yours.” Mason Stands “I made it here. What’s next?” Alex Harrington

“Words don’t hurt people, people do.” Ethan Kilbride

“I am just one big whatever.” Anonymous

“ADHD. Searched for cure. Got bored.” Nate Veatch

“School, work, eat, don’t sleep, repeat.” Autumn Klaudt

“Birth. Death. In between’s my choice.” Anonymous “Wait, let me take a selfie.” Cole Vanderwoude “Barista brewed it decaf. Day ruined.” Emma Heckel

“Sun Up, Sun Down, Same Town.” Cole Schlumbohm

“Are you going to eat that?” Anonymous

“I don’t need all the answers.” Rilee Oien

“‘It’s not real’ ‘Real to me.’” Kendra Cary

“Twin sister. Best friend. Worst enemy.” Brittany Forsman “Young: refused naps. Old: cherish naps.” Jaci Raveling

“Not from Tennessee, still a ten.” Graham Kaufman “Common Core is ruining my life.” Anonymous

“Life’s a test. Where’s my tutor?” Anonymous

“‘I’ll be home soon’... still waiting.” Payton Murphy “Frost was right-Life goes on.” Elizabeth Chesbrough

“Upon entry, everyone stood dead silent.” Anonymous

“The weather will get better, right?” Curtis Mollison

“‘I’m just fine.’ Smiling, she lies.” Andia Hartland

“Stress, stress, stress, stress, stress, chocolate.” Nick Nash

“Being strong is a big understatement. ” Lakin Barnett

Details

“Still here and still it stays...” Keya Boyle

“One mistake; that’s all it takes.” Erik Rossing

ENTERTAINMENT

STATESMAN | December 12, 2014

Icons of the past compared to modern day stars

By Allison Metzger While standards among the lifestyles of people everywhere have changed dramatically throughout the 20th and 21st centuries, the core values within role models which men and women admire remain the same, regardless of the different portrayal of them. Young girls and women, to this day, admire Marilyn Monroe and Jacqueline Kennedy, while young men adore Frank Sinatra. However there are many new idols for this current generation as well, including: Beyoncé, Kate Middleton and Michael Bublé, who mirror the previous ones respectively. During her lifetime, the late Monroe showed

Americans that everyone has a past which helps shape his or her life, but contrary to popular belief, it does not necessarily determine one’s future. Despite Monroe’s unfortunate childhood, she advocated to young women that it does not matter where one comes from or their problematic past, that they could grow up and become anything they wanted to be. In addition to this, she promoted the acceptance of not being a size 0, and regardless of one’s body type, one should be confident with themselves and their body. Currently, Beyoncé, the “new Monroe,” has adopted and illustrated these principles to her fans around the world. She is an inspiration to young girls everywhere that

they are beautiful regardless of size, and every single girl should be content with her looks. Bublé and Sinatra’s music belong to the same genre and their renditions are of the same songs, however they both put their own individual twists on each track. Both artists’ style of music includes a wide variety of musicians, including choruses and orchestras. Sinatra not only wrote original songs, but also sang many adaptations of songs written previously by other artists. Bublé also does this, writing new songs and changing up melodies of tunes written in the past. In addition to Sinatra’s and Bublé’s music, both are seen as extremely classy men due to the suits which, in Sinatra’s case,

More than

were worn frequently intensifying the idolization of these two musicians to young boys aspiring to make it big in the music industry. Jacqueline Kennedy, a very famous First Lady, is often times compared to Kate Middleton, the Duchess of Cambridge. Both Kennedy and Middleton are known not only for their close-to-perfect physique and beautiful faces, but also their modesty and properness. Many people look up to these two women because unlike many girls, nowadays and in the previous decades, they are not famous for being revealing or for committing harmful or demeaning actions, but rather for their sophistication and the way they carry themselves so elegantly.

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ENTERTAINMENT

STATESMAN | December 12, 2014

‘Horrible Bosses 2:’ No one is immune from its crassness

By AlexA Ankrum The sequel to the 2011 movie, “Horrible Bosses” contains all of the strengths and weaknesses of the first movie. In the movie, the Horrible Bosses trio, Nick Hendricks (Jason Bateman), Dale Arbus (Charlie Day) and Kurt Buckman (Jason Sudeikis), attempt to create their own business in an effort to avoid all of the grief of having a boss. Although the plot of the movie is more complex and evidently more thought out than “Horrible Bosses,” it still contains the same type of quirks that the original movie had. For instance, although the movie revolves around a few guys preparing to commit a crime, there is more pointless talking than real action. The movie does have a car chase, but even that is irritatingly slow. The silly chatter of the characters is funny, but only to a point. After a while, viewers get tired of it. It is enough to make the audience mistake this brand new movie with a much older one, because of its ridiculously strung out scenes and sluggish pace. Most viewers were pleased to see the return of Dr. Julia Harris (Jennifer Aniston) and Mr. Jones (Jamie Foxx) in all of their outrageous

glory. As in the first movie, they raise the “uncomfortableness” factor by about 10 notches each. Jones also plays a more active role in the crime and, like always, when he ‘assists’ Nick, Dale and Kurt, he really makes matters more complicated. Aniston ultimately makes it very clear by her performance that her character, Julia, is not going to change her ways. She is just as obsessive and just as attractive as before, and that fact does not go unnoticed by certain members of the Horrible Bosses trio. In the end, these two, outrageous characters, actually have a significant impact in the plot of the movie. However, that impact might punch a hole in Nick, Kurt and Dale’s plans. The humor in “Horrible Bosses 2” is just as raunchy as expected, maybe more so. Profanities and sexual innuendos are tossed around like a beach ball at an outdoor concert. No matter how inappropriate, most of the viewers will not be able to stop themselves from chuckling once or twice, no matter how mature those viewers claim they are. However, the comedy glue of the movie is Charlie Day’s voice. The main characters can act like idiots and freak out as much as they want, but as long as Day con-

Photo Provided by MCt CaMPus

Dale, Kurt and Nick are, once again, up to mischievous behavior as they continue to work on another one of their plans in “Horrible Bosses 2.”

tinues to do it in his unmistakable whiny voice, then the audience will continue to think they are hilarious. “Horrible Bosses 2” is an entertaining flick for

anyone who likes extremely dark and off-color humor. Those that do not will either roll their eyes and leave the theater, or stick around for a laugh or two.

‘Mockingjay Part 1:’ The new hit movie on fire

By SwethA SArAvAnAn Oh, have the odds been in the audiences’ favor. Part 1 of the final installment in the “Hunger Games” trilogy takes a more political angle of the dystopian society without giving up the excitement of the two preceding films. Raking in $123 million, the franchise has made the most in its opening weekend than any other film so far this year. “Mockingjay Part 1” picks up where “Catching Fire” left off. Despite being physically healed, Katniss Everdeen (Jennifer Lawrence) is in an emotional crisis. Her own home of District 12 is in ruins and Peeta has been kidnapped by the Capitol. Katniss is introduced to District 13, an underground base for rebellion against the Capitol and their ruthless leader President Snow (Donald Sutherland). The first half of the movie revolves around persuading Katniss to be the face of the Mockingjay and creating short films of herself describing the atrocities committed by the Capitol as a means of media propaganda. District 13 seeks to maintain the burning defiance of the citizens of Panem in order to engage in a

Photo Provided by MCt CaMPus

Gale and Katniss walk among the rubble of the battlefield in order to shoot a video as a means of media propaganda. “Mockingjay Part 2” is in the making right now.

steadfast civil war against the Capitol. Meanwhile, President Snow uses Peeta Mellark (Josh Hutcherson) to convince the people that rebelling against the Capitol will result in terrible

consequences. In the attempt to capture the injustice brought upon the people, the film drags on a little bit in the beginning with limited action,

such as a couple of bombs sprinkled here and there and some arrows Katniss and Gale (Liam Hemsworth) launch destroying the Capitol’s aircrafts. “Mockingjay Part 1” is very character-driven and the acting is superb. The film enhances the dramatic aspect of the series. The addition of new characters such as the mysterious Alma Coin (Julianne Moore), the president of District 13, is a pleasant dynamic to a few of the series favorites like Effie Trinket (Elizabeth Banks) and Haymitch Abernathy (Woody Harrelson) who are used cleverly as instruments of comic relief in the otherwise serious plot of the movie. Tension between the two parties arises when the people of Panem begin to rebel and in turn are threatened by the Capitol. Although the movie does have a PG-13 rating, it does not have any graphic scenes or extremely vulgar language. The film would be best appropriate for anyone who is old enough to read the “Hunger Games” series. The ending of the movie left everyone wanting more. Get three fingers up and be prepared for the conclusion to the worldwide phenomenon.

ENTERTAINMENT

STATESMAN | December 12, 2014

Holiday specials boost enthusiasm among TV viewers By Mikaela NeuBauer

Every year, around this time, the country explodes with holiday spirit. One way to celebrate this hype of the season is through never-ending TV specials. A single click of the remote will land the viewer in a world full of snow and love, leaving one’s heart feeling like a melted marshmallow. Here are some of the seasonal spectacles one can tune into this winter.

New Arrivals “Peter Pan Live!”

NBC will premiere their live rendition of Peter Pan on Dec. 4th. After last year’s highly successful “Sound of Music Live!” (Starring Carrie Underwood), the network decided to continue this tradition. Be ready for pixie dust, magic and a throwback to the original NBC Peter Pan production from 1954, which starred Mary Martin. Allison Williams will be playing Peter Pan with Christopher Walken as Captain Hook. It is off to Neverland! NBC Dec. 4, 7 p.m.

“The Great Christmas Light Fight”

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Holiday decorating gets intense in this competition series. Twenty families attempt to design the brightest and most elaborate winter wonderland possible, striving to win $50,000 each episode. This “shining” series will air on ABC Family every Monday, starting on Dec. 9.

Classics

Childhood Favorites “Elf ”

“It’s a Wonderful Life”

A stressed out businessman, ready to take drastic measures, is reminded by an angel just how different the world would be without him. This black-and-white movie shows just how great the world is, warming hearts and wetting eyes. NBC Dec. 24, 8 p.m.

“A Charlie Brown Christmas"

Charlie Brown is sick of the overwhelming materialistic nature of Christmas. His solution: make everything old-fashioned. Charlie takes over, attempting to direct a traditional Christmas pageant and buying a plain (but depressing) tree. But when Charlie and his friends all learn an important lesson, he realizes that the commercialization is not what really matters during the holiday season. ABC Family Dec. 16, 8 p.m.

When a very cheerful elf named Buddy learns that he is actually a human, he travels to New York to find his father. The hustle and bustle of the Big Apple shocks Buddy, and he realizes most people do not have the same amount of Christmas spirit as the North Pole had. Amidst crazy antics and sweet family moments, Buddy works hard to “spread Christmas cheer” to NYC. ABC Family Dec. 19, 8 p.m.

“Dr. Seuss’ How The Grinch Stole Christmas”

Is it possible for a single holiday to change the heart of a grouchy character? It seems unlikely for the Grinch. Green, nasty and meanhearted to boot, this creature is the repulsion of all in Whoville, but one little girl makes it her mission to change him. ABC Family Dec. 14.

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ENTERTAINMENT

STATESMAN | December 12, 2014

Beyoncé continues to impress fans with this ‘Flawless’ album

BY MADDY HACKETT Everyone bow down to the Queen, for she has done it again. That is right, a surprise album was not enough for Beyoncé. She decided to give her fans another treat by adding six new songs to her chart-topping album “Beyoncé.” The Platinum Edition of “Beyoncé” is now 48 songs long. It includes the initial 14 songs Beyoncé first put out, the six new songs she just released, 18 music videos and ten live world tour songs. As for the new songs, Beyoncé dropped remixes to “Flawless” with Nicki Minaj, “Drunk in Love” with Jay Z and Kanye West, “Standing on the Sun” with Mr. Vegas and “Blow” with Pharrell Williams. She also took it upon herself to write two new songs; “7/11” and “Ring Off.” Most of the songs, like “Partition,” “Drunk in Love,” “7/11” and “Flawless Remix” have been in the top charts on iTunes. “Haunted,” “No Angel” and “Rocket” are more eclectic sounding songs that slow down the fast-paced album. The first 14 songs were sensational, and the addition makes the album “flawless.” The beat makes listeners want to “wave their hands side to side and put them in the air,” and get up and

PHOTO PROVIDED BY MCT CAMPUS

Beyoncé accepts her most recent out of her 16 Grammy Award’s that she has received.

dance, but there is a bigger picture that Beyoncé is trying to get across. Beyoncé is a role model to girls everywhere because of her feminist ways, which she has continually promoted throughout every album she has released. This album is no exception. Lyrics like “perfection is a disease of a nation, pretty hurts but it’s the soul that needs the surgery” states that

men expect women to be perfect but women are already beautiful the way there are. Chimamanda, who is featured in one of Beyoncé’s songs says, “we teach girls to aspire to marriage and we don’t teach boys the same?” which touches on how unequal gender roles are. She even goes so far to define what a feminist is, “a person who believes in the social, political and economic equality of the

sexes,” in her hit song “Flawless.” “Flawless” also states that males have an advantage in life because they are not required to get married, become pregnant and raise a child. Beyoncé’s message to this: “congratulations, we’ll see you next week,” meaning women will prevail in the future. One man who is winning at life is Jay Z. He and Beyoncé are electric together and it shows through songs like “Drunk in Love.” Jay Z has had an effect on his wife’s music, as Beyoncé’s sound has changed dramatically throughout her career. She has started to rap more and the bass dial has turned from two to ten. On this album, the bass dial broke because of songs like “7/11,” “Partition” and “Haunted.” But the album also has a softer side. Songs like “Blue,” “XO” and “Ring Off” pay tribute to Beyoncé’s child, Blue Ivy, her husband, Jay Z and her mother, Tina Knowles, respectively. This album has something for everyone, great music, live performances, remixes and music videos. Everyone hails the Queen and because of this album, they have even more reasons to love her.

A “Marvelous” idea for media powerhouse: Execute phase three BY WILL HANNEMANN On Oct. 28, 2014 Marvel Studios shocked the movie world with the announcement of nine new superhero movies. Coming off their stunning performance with the movie “Guardians of the Galaxy,” Marvel announced Phase 3 of their movie plans. When they released it, the movies were “Captain America: Serpent Society” (2016), “Doctor Strange” (2016), “Guardians of the Galaxy 2” (2017), “Thor: Ragnarok” (2017), “Black Panther’ (2017), “Avengers: Infinity Ward Part I” (2018), “Captain Marvel” (2018), “Inhumans” (2018) and “Avengers: Infinity War Part II” (2019). When Marvel originally announced the release of the film it was named “Captain America: Serpent Society”, however, recently the title was changed to “Captain America: Civil War.” The Civil War comics are considered some of the best of all time. So when this was announced, the fans in the El Centro Theatre were going out of their minds. On top of that, Iron Man (Robert Downey Jr.) and Captain America (Chris Evans) came on stage. The Civil War comics are based on Iron

Man thinking superheroes should have to give away their secret identities. Captain America thinks that superheroes should get to choose. T h e m a i n c h a r acters people should look for in these movies are Downey Jr., playing Iron Man, and Evans, playing Captain America. These two are in the prime of their careers and they are the faces of Marvel. Also, the way they play their parts is on point. Iron Man is a billionaire, playboy, genius and

Downey Jr. knows exactly how to play his crazy, yet sophisticated role. Captain America is a WWII veteran that was frozen in ice and is the most honorable man known to mankind. It is outstanding how Evans portrays this American hero in his own patriotic way. “Captain America: Civil War” has the potential to be the best movie Marvel has come out with yet. Marvel continues to come out with sequels to old movies while also introducing totally unfamiliar characters for new movies. The new characters in this phase are Doctor Strange, the Black Panther, Captain Marvel and the Inhumans. Doctor Strange is the best sorcerer in the world. The Black Panther is the king of the African country Wakanda; he is agile and uses vibranium, a rare metal, for a weapon. Captain Marvel has amazing strength, and it is also the first movie from Marvel Studios that has a woman as the lead

PHOTO PROVIDED BY MARVEL.COM

role. Finally, the Inhumans is a group of heroes that come together to fight crime. These movies are projected to be the best part of the series, considering Marvel Studios produced the number one and number two movies in America: “Guardians of the Galaxy” and “Captain America: Winter Soldier.” If the writers stick to a big storyline for all the movies and the small one for the individual movies, they will be running the box office for the next four years for sure. With masterminds like Joss Whedon, James Gunn, Nicole Perlman, Anthony Russo and Joe Russo writing the movies, the fans will be in for a treat. People should definitely go see these movies unless they are a huge realist because the superhero part is hard to believe, yet it portrays how the world would be if there were real superheroes. These movies will bring everyone back to their childhood and make them want to go out and save the world. Also, all these movies will be rated at their strongest PG-13. With all this these films, Marvel Studios could have created the best franchises of all time.

Sports LHS STATESMAN

By the Numbers

DECEMBER 12, 2014

Despite odds, LHS caps another perfect season

NUMBER OF JUMP

SHOTS TAKEN BY THE

GIRLS’ BASKETBALL TEAM DURING FALL OPEN GYM

CONSECUTIVE GAMES WON BY THE LHS FOOTBALL TEAM

The Pats have won 22 games and two championships in a row. They have never lost when playing at the DakotaDome.

NUMBER OF TOUCH-

ERS RETURNING FROM

DOWNS THROWN BY SENIOR ISAIAH

ROACH

NUMBER OF STARTLAST YEAR’S SECOND PLACE BOYS’ BASKETBALL TEAM

UPCOMING EVENTS Friday, December 12 Varsity Wrestling tournament @ Rapid City Civic Center

VISIT. APPLY. HOWL! admissions@usd.edu

www.usd.edu

@UniversitySD

Saturday, December 13 Varsity Gymnastics @ Aberdeen

BY DYLAN HALL At the beginning of the school year, many people did not expect the LHS football team to come anywhere close to what they accomplished a year ago. They had lost many starters, and other schools, such as RHS, were supposedly loaded with talent. The Pats were not worried about any of that talk. Their first real test was in the President’s Bowl, as LHS conquered then number 1 RHS, in a game that would prove to be one of the best all year. The Pats rolled through the rest of their season, finishing with a perfect 8-0 record and the top seed in the class 11AAA playoffs. After hard fought wins over Rapid

City Central and OGHS, the road to the Dome was complete and a championship rematch with RHS loomed. The team came ready to play, pulling out to a 21-7 lead, before letting RHS back into the game. LHS would come away with the win after stopping a fourth down play, and scoring another touchdown to win 28-14. Despite all the talk of this year’s team not being able to fill the shoes left empty after last year, the Pats were able to go 11-0 and win another state championship. “I’m just so happy for the kids. It’s really cool that they can be a part of such a great experience,” said head coach Aaron Beavers. “They are going to remember a night like this for

The LHS cheerleaders lead the student section in a cheer. They were there to cheer the team to victory in every game throughout the season.

the rest of their lives.” There were many key seniors that helped lead the team to such a great season. Senior quarterback Isaiah Roach led the team through every game, throwing for an amazing 18 touchdowns. Senior Nickel Meyers led the team in receiving, having over 1,000 yards with seven touchdowns. The running back combination of seniors Braxton Large and Lucas Heitkamp were possibly the main reason for the team’s continued success. The two combined to run for over 1,500 yards and 29 touchdowns, including four in the championship game. “They outworked every opponent all season to get to this point,” said Beavers. “One message I have for all

Championship game in pictures

PHOTO PROVIDED BY JIM DORMAN

of this year’s seniors is to keep working and they will be successful no matter what happens after this. They are great young men that happen to be good football players, and that could carry them really far.” LHS has now finished a second great year in a row, and has won 22 straight games. LHS football has never been more successful, and with three recent championships, this could be the beginning of an amazing dynasty. “I’m proud of the Lincoln Crazies; I’m proud of the team, and everyone that was a part of our state championship,” said Large. “It was just fate. We have been good for the last two years, and it was meant to be.”

Senior Alex Engel ﬁred up the rest of the LHS Crazies during the game. The Crazies played a huge part in the team’s success.

Saturday, December 20 Varsity Girls Basketball @ Sanford Pentagon

PHOTO BY JOE HIATT

Monday, December 29 Varsity Boys Basketball @ Sanford Pentagon

PHOTO BY JOE HIATT

The team gets set to run a defensive play during the championship game. The LHS defense played strong the entire game, holding RHS to just 14 points.

PHOTO BY JOE HIATT

SPORTS

STATESMAN | December 12, 2014

LHS student athletes; Signing a paper to an exciting future By Brooke PhilliPs Computers, cell phones and other electronics have become something that is relied on by many people. People text each other on cell phones, type documents on computers and even apply to college online. However, for LHS seniors Ellie Brecht, Kaleb Johnson, Will Lauer, Maggie Smithers and Tommy Vining, they prefer the “old-fashioned” pen-to-paper way on one particular day: signing day. For these seniors, signing day is when athletes officially commit to the college that they will not only be attending next year, but will also be playing a sport there. Brecht and Johnson committed for basketball, Lauer to cross country, Smithers to soccer and Vining to golf. Signing day allowed them all to prepare for college earlier rather than later. “Colleges started recruiting me the summer going into my sophomore year,” said Vining, who will be attending the University of Minnesota next fall. “I was talking to Arizona and Iowa, but I really wanted to go to Minnesota. I went on my official visit in November during my junior year, and when I left the visit, I verbally committed 15 minutes later.” While these seniors have already started to prepare for college next year, they also have started to train and practice for a whole new

level of competition within their sport. “I’m excited to go to the next level,” said Lauer, who will be attending Stanford University next fall. “I thought that going from the middle school level to the high school level was the coolest thing, and now I’m about to go from the high school to college level. It’s going to be a lot of fun practicing at the college level with a lot of guys who have equal ability on the team.” Although most of these senior athletes have been playing their sport for many years, playing in college is either been a childhood dream, or a whole new consideration to think about. “I didn’t really know what I wanted to do until ninth grade,” said Vining. “I set a goal to play Division 1 golf, and since then I’ve worked really hard towards that.” Along with playing a college sport comes many opportunities and different types of scholarships. “At Stanford, they base the scholarships on how you contribute to the team,” said Lauer. “I’ll get scholarships based on how I perform during my first two years at the NCAA cross country level.” As much as these seniors are excited to be playing a sport in college, they also recognize that it is going to take a lot of commitment.

SPORTS

STATESMAN | December 12, 2014

Winter Sports Preview

BY WILL HANNEMANN ANNA STRITECKY

Girls’ Basketball

Sideline Cheer

Wrestling

Last Year: 10-8 Coach: Matt Daly “I think we have a lot to prove this year, coming out of a season where we had a lot of young players.” -Matt Daly “We’ve worked really hard and I know it will snow when the season begins! It’s going to be a great season.” -Junior, Elizabeth Van Veldhuizen

Last Year: Spirit of Six Coach: Katie Pabst “This year we have a great chance to win Spirit of Six again. We have to watch out for other schools, because they are right behind us.” -Katie Pabst “Cheer is our team’s superpower. What’s yours?” -Senior, Lauren Holm

Last Year: Individual placed but disqualified Coach: Mark Ernster “We have a lot of younger middle schoolers, who are looking good. Our goal this year is to work together as a team and train to do well in state.” -Mark Ernster “We are going for gold!” -Senior, Brandon Sylasa

Photo By Joe hiatt

Left to right: Tommy Vining, Kaleb Johnson, Will Lauer, Ellie Brecht and Maggie Smithers. All five students are the only kids at LHS to sign this year. The next signing day for future college athletes is April 15, 2015.

“It’s going to be tough to do both golf and the school work part of college,” said Vining. “It’s a different kind of pressure though, because everyone is good on the college team, and it’s going to be a lot of hard work practicing golf and studying for classes.” Athletes put a lot of time into practicing and working at their sport in order to improve and continue to keep getting better. There are many hours spent at the gym, outside in the sunshine

and just mentally preparing for games, matches and meets. Signing day is not only just another day, it is also a day in which these athletic seniors will be able to take the next step towards their futures. “Signing day means that everything is set in stone,” said Vining. “It’s exciting because it means I’ve been working towards this, and it’s gratifying knowing that I will finally be able to go to college soon and play a sport that I love.”

Parkour: An exhilarating pastime that requires dedication and drive

By lizzie Archer While a great population of students find themselves involved in school-sanctioned activities or working on the weekends, LHS junior Christian Powers is an individual that has invested himself in the mental drive and physical ability it takes to practice parkour. Powers was inspired by LHS alumni Levi Mitchell, and he has fallen in love with the sport ever since he started. Parkour is wellknown for the challenging acrobatic-like athletic performance that places spectators in awe as the athletes maneuver their way around awkward barriers. “Parkour is basically using your obstacles and any barriers in your way to get from point A to point B more fluently and faster,” said Powers. “It was a French war tactic actually.” Powers and his buddies have formed a team that practices every Saturday at Power and Grace Gymnastics during open gym. To Powers, Parkour is more than just the physical ability of flips and quick turns; there is a mental aspect to the workout that adds to the challenge

Photo By Joe hiatt

Junior Christain Powers practices his parkour moves outside LHS despite the winter weather. Powers is one of the only kids to do parkour at LHS in his free time.

and difficulty. “It’s one of the biggest stress relievers I think there is,” said Powers. “You constantly overcome mental barriers in your head, and then once you get done with these workouts, you feel so much better about yourself. It’s a huge confidence booster, because you do something you couldn’t think you could do. The whole time you kind of sketch yourself out about it,

but then you overcome it, and nothing makes you feel better. When you get it down, and you do something you know no one else can do, it makes you feel so much better about yourself and that you can just do anything basically.” Powers and his dedicated team look forward to the summer season months where they can take their action to the streets and parks of Sioux Falls. Although they enjoy the time

spent at the gym, they anticipate free running through foreign obstacles throughout Sioux Falls. For those interested in Parkour, Powers and his teammates have set up a Facebook page for their followers called “Sufu Wolfpack.” Powers utilizes the sport of Parkour as a positive outlet that allows him to have fun with friends while staying physically and mentally sharp. Powers has become an advocate for the hobby, and encourages any and all youths to give it a try as well. “It’s a great way to stay physically active, and it’s an awesome total-body workout,” said Powers. “You’re doing things that no one else can do, so it gives you something that you can be proud of and show off to people. You just know how to use your body, and you become very in-tune with your body. Once you’ve been doing it for awhile, you’re just really in-touch with your body, you know all your movements really well. Other than that, it’s basically just a lot of fun too. If you can’t have fun doing it, you’re probably just a little bit too scared, and you need to overcome mental barriers.”

Boys’ Basketball Last Year: 11-12, 2nd in State Coach: Jeff Halseth “We have chance to be a special team, but it comes down to if the boys want to play for themselves or the team.” -Jeff Halseth “Our season started in 2011, which was our freshman year. Now it is time to finish.” -Senior, Addison Park

Gymnastics

Last Year: 2nd in the State Qualifier Coach: Les Frederic “Our goal is to make state with all 14 girls, as a whole team.” -Rebecca Mager “Our team is so incredibly close, and I think that will be a huge factor in how the season plays out. Win or lose, we will always be family.” -Senior, Peyton Kliewer PHOTOS BY SYDNEY MILLER

SPORTS

STATESMAN | December 12, 2014

UNC athletics go to disturbing extent to keep athletes eligible

By ElliE BrEcHt The purpose of attending college is to further one’s education. Despite the fact that some students attend college to play a sport, academics are always considered a priority even in the minds of the coaches, except at the University of North Carolina. There is reason for the term describing athletes still in school to be called “studentathletes.” The student aspect should come before the athlete aspect, and that is preached all across the world of high school and collegiate athletics no matter what level. Recently at UNC, former basketball player, Rashad McCants, who happened to be the second leading scorer on the Tar Heels’ championship basketball team 10 years ago, admitted to something that shocked and angered many. He came forward and confessed that during his time spent at UNC, where he was supposed to further his education and succeed athletically, he hardly furthered his education. This was a result of taking “paper” or fake classes that were formed by the faculty, athletic and academic administrators and coaches at UNC so that the athletes could spend their time outside of formal practice, practicing more, instead of attending class or studying for exams. The staff agreed to giving these athletes good grades, and meanwhile all that the “student-athletes” had to do was write one paper and they passed the course. It was not only McCants who participated in this act, but also 3,100 other students at UNC, most of whom were athletes, along with

PHOTO PROVIDED BY MCT CAMPUS

A younger Rashad McCants throws down a dunk in the 2005 Final Four semi-finals. Nine years later, McCants has alleged that UNC and other colleges took part in academic fraud.

other collegiate athletes across the country who are now being investigated due to this scandal. When it was admitted that all of this had taken place, (by multiple people), UNC staff was in

an uproar, attempting to discredit the people admitting to it. Investigations confirmed that this was all true; a university known for its exceptional athletics and challenging academics

suddenly has the reputation as a fraudulent, demoralized college, which is disappointing for the public and presumably humiliating for those who were involved, especially considering their high ranks in both the academic world and athletic world. Being one of the top Division I athletic colleges in the country, the athletes, McCants tells CNN, attended the university strictly to play sports. “As an athlete, we weren’t really there for an education,” said McCants to CNN. “You get a scholarship to the University to play basketball.” According to CNN, there were instances in which the student athletes wanted to pursue an education in a certain major but were redirected by advisers to take paper classes instead, in an area of studies which they were not interested in. It is to be made clear that all of this was done in an effort to keep the athletes eligible for play. As of right now, CNN reporters are concluding that the diplomas of those 3,100 students will most likely not be revoked, due to extreme difficulties of gathering those students to take all the classes they did not take and the widespread time range that all of this occurred during. If one of the largest universities in the country is going to these disturbing extents just to keep their athletes eligible to play their sport, then it is unpredictable as to what else will happen, in other colleges across the nation.

Standing Pat

LHS athletics have transformed the school’s culture

By Dylan Hall, SportS EDitor In the past few years, LHS has gone through a complete transformation. Students’ school spirit has skyrocketed and the recent success of the football team, as well as multiple other sports, has propelled it. Just a few short years ago, LHS did not win very often. They had never won a football championship, and victories in other sports were hard to come by. The student section at games felt empty and quiet, as students had other things to do with their time than go to games. Students had next to no school spirit because there was nothing to cheer about. LHS was the laughing stock of the four Sioux Falls

schools, known as “Stinkin’ Lincoln.” That has all changed in the last couple years. In 2008, LHS won the state football championship, and also capped an undefeated season and a state title in boy’s basketball. This was the first bit of success LHS had in a long time. Through the next few years, the school as a whole continued to improve in athletics. The girl’s basketball team won state titles, the cross country team became a state powerhouse, the volleyball team won back-to-back state championships, girl’s and boy’s soccer both won championships, the boy’s basketball team turned into a consistent top team, the football team played its first ever undefeated season and

many other sports began winning like never before. The success of LHS athletics has led to so much more school spirit from all of the students and faculty at LHS. This year, the student section at games has been larger than ever before, and students are always buzzing with excitement for upcoming games, no matter what sport it is. In the past, students wouldn’t even go to events such as volleyball games or soccer matches. Now, student cheering is helping lead the teams to victory. Basketball season, along with the other winter sports, is just around the corner, and it’s time for the “Crazies” to get even crazier.

Both basketball teams have high hopes for the season, and if the student section turnout continues to rise, all of the winter sports could get even better. Students are finally starting to brag about being a Patriot. Everyone has pride in their school, and the athletic department is doing what they can to continue the success. They are giving back to the students through things like, a new state of the art weight room, new jerseys and improved equipment to aid the team’s success. For the first time in history, everyone wants to be a Patriot because LHS has the best athletics, the best facilities, the best teachers and the best students in the state.

STATESMAN | December 12, 2014

All STATE cHoIR

MEET THE VARSITY Seth Brick, 12

Hope Downey, 12

Noelle Starnes, 12

Singer that best portrays you: Birdy, because Seth Brick said so. Inspiration: Benam’s earlobes Favorite song: “Like Real People Do,” by Hozier and BJAcN’s over of “Holly Jolly Christmas”

Singer that best portrays you: Birdy, because we are twins. Inspiration: chris larson’s eyebrows Favorite song: “Bet On It” - High School Musical 2

Singer that best portrays you: Demi lovato, because I really don’t care. Inspiration: london’s back muscles Favorite song: I cried watching the music video to “Pretty Hurts” by Beyonce, so probably that.

Micah McCoy, 12

Annie Deutscher, 12

Maria Letcher, 12

Singer that best portrays you: Meghan Trainor, because I’m all about that bass. Inspiration: THE Adam Bradner K3 Favorite song: “Dry Your Tears, Benam” by Will Hannemann

Abbi Freese, 12 Singer that best portrays you: It’s a 3-way tie between Pitbull, Tech N9ne and chad Kroeger of Nickelback (for obvious reasons). Inspiration: Tina Belcher, Shawn cable and every aspect of colin Browen’s life. Favorite song: “Roses” by outkast

Singer that best portrays you: Arianna Grande, because we are both really famous, short, little vegan red heads. Inspiration: Abbie Jarrett’s smile... rare, but magical Favorite song: The potato version of “Thinking About You” by Frank ocean

Alex Newcomb-Weiland, 12 Singer that best portrays you: Ke$ha, cause I am who I am. Inspiration: Grace Fjellanger Favorite song: The static sound you hear on the radio.

Mya Baca, 12

Singer that best portrays you: Nicki Minaj, for obvious assets. Inspiration: Harry Styles Favorite song: “Play With Fire” by Vance Joy

Daniel Bergeson, 12 Singer that best portrays you: Miley cyrus, because she’s sassy. Inspiration: People who can twerk; because I can’t, and believe me I’ve tried. Favorite song: I don’t know any songs.

Branch Fjellanger, 12

Michael Lange, 12

Singer that best portrays you: Vladimir Putin Inspiration: Every single one of Adam J Bradners’ missed PATs Favorite song: “Row Row Row Your Boat”

Singer that best portrays you: Betty White singing “I’m Still Hot,” because I am. Inspiration: Brady Barnes and Kual Jiel Favorite song: “Swag Like Caillou,” by little B the Bass God

Singer that best portrays you: Michael Bertsch, because he wear glasses, and so do I. Inspiration: Michael Bertsch Favorite song: Any song Michael Bertsch sings

Adam Ortmeier, 12

Eli Gullickson, 11

Singer that best portrays you: Justin Timberlake, because we have afros. Inspiration: level 99 Hunter on my Runescape account. Favorite song: Team America theme song

Singer that best portrays you: T. Swift Inspiration: Seth Brick Favorite song: “Avalanche” by The Ghost Inside

Erik Rossing, 12

Next Issue: Basketball, Gymnastics, Wrestling and Bowling

London Lambert, 12

Singer that best portrays you: Myself, because I’m better than everyone. Inspiration: Sam Venjohn Favorite song: Anything sung by Sam Venjohn

Singer that best portrays you: Adam Bradner, I think he’s Jesus. Inspiration: “Keeping Up With the Kardashians” Favorite song: “All Deez” by Buku

STATESMAN | December 12, 2014

BAND

Evan Krebs, 12

Singer that best portrays you: Me, because I’m me. Inspiration: Adam Dale and pizza Favorite song: Anything sung by Michael Bertsch.

Karli Stephenson, 12 Singer that best portrays you: Anna Stritecky, because we look a lot alike. Inspiration: Mr. c. ripping his pants doing the Sumo. Favorite song: “Sweet Caroline”

Allan Millar, 12

Adam Dale, 12

Graham Kaufman, 12

Singer that best portrays you: Erik Rossing, because there are two of him. Inspiration: Morgan Freeman’s voice Favorite song: Whatever Erik is singing at the moment.

Singer that best portrays you: Kevin Barnes, because he just does what he likes. Inspiration: listening to music and guys on segways. Favorite song: “Haunted” by Shirk

Singer that best portrays you: Nicki Minaj; our eyes are super similar. Inspiration: Jake Semansky’s Heritage Favorite song: “Bye Bye Bye” by NSYNc

Anne Hall, 12

Anna Stritecky, 12

Singer that best portrays you: Frank Sinatra, because we are both hopeless romantics. Inspiration: High School Musical Sing-Along 2, bus 2. Favorite song: Anything by Enrique Iglesias or Prince Royce, because they are my amores.

Brigitta Bogue, 12

Singer that best portrays you: Will Hannemann, because we are both section leaders. Inspiration: Giuseppe charles luciano Viggiano Hiatt Favorite song: Whatever song the Jackson 5 sings to me.

Cailyn Ganter, 12 Singer that best portrays you: Soulja Boy, because he’s got swag. (But not really...) Inspiration: Josh Jaton and Anne Hall’s beautiful smiles Favorite song: “Bohemian Rhapsody”

oRcHESTRA

Singer that best portrays you: Rebbeca Black, because I can’t sing. Inspiration: owen Braley, and his positive outlook on life. Favorite song: The cello section’s rendition of any Nirvana song.

May Dang, 12

Sam Happeny, 12

Singer that best portrays you: Mulan- “Look At Me” Inspiration: Probably food Favorite song: “Let’s Defeat The Huns”

Singer that best portrays you: Biggie Smalls, cause I like it when you call me Big Poppa. Inspiration: Ryan Boer Favorite song: Anything by Nickelback

Karl Henry, 12

Jared Bitz, 12

Josh Jaton, 12

Singer that best portrays you: Justin Timberlake; he is my bae. Inspiration: Hugs from Sam Happeny Favorite song: Any song by Nickelback

Singer that best portrays you: Mick Jagger, because of his beast dance moves. Inspiration: Playing music. Duh! Favorite song: The “Star Wars Theme”

Singer that best portrays you: Woodkid; although no one knows him, he’s the coolest person to ever walk this planet. Inspiration: Beyonce’s 2013 Super Bowl performance Favorite song: “Soon We’ll Be Found” by Sia

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