MHS Line O Type Student Newspaper December 14 2018

THE LINE O’ TYPE

Page 4 ..........”Happy Holidays” vs. “Merry Christmas” Page 6-7.......Share Joys highlights Page 8..........Avengers trailer Page 11........Bowling past the competition

December 14, 2018

Volume 102, Issue 3

Kayla Veto and Aaron DeWilde acting in Share Joys improv room Photo courtesy of Colin Stewart

News December 14, 2018

High

school

By: Ella Goderis and Janey Locander LO’T Reporters

dress

code:

Fair

to

all

or

2

discriminatory?

at MHS feel the dress code age we should teach mu- replace it with school unito be sexist. These same tual respect and that each forms. Uniforms provide people find that there is person is responsible for a consistency that would reduce the gender bias and prevent inappropriate clothing. A lot of kids get picked on for what they wear and wearing uniforms would change a lot of problems kids and parents face. Student Emilio Guerrero, says “There are pros and cons to uniforms, a con being you’d have to

wash the same clothes all the time, but it would be good not knowing what you need to wear each day.

However, the current dress code doesn’t bother me.”

However, Mckenzie disagrees with this idea, objecting, “I don't think uniforms are the way to go.”

While uniforms are one possible solution, schools across the country handle dress code in unique ways.

By: Aubrie Mozingo LO’T News Editor This 2018-2019 school year marks Lanty McGuire’s final year as superintendent of Moline School District.

As this school year is almost half over, the time has come to solidify the pick for the future superintendent.

Currently, there are three potential candidates for this position, which was previously narrowed down from seven. Of the seven, Dr. Kelley Anne Gallt, Dr. Brian Prybil, and Dr. Rachel

Savage were chosen. Dr. Kelley Anne Gallt is currently the Chief Academic Officer in St. Charles Community School District. Dr. Brian Prybil is the principal of Washington Elementary School and the former vice-principal of Wilson Middle School. Finally, Dr. Rachel Savage is a head principal in Waterloo Community School District.

All of these potential candidates have distinguished pasts in leadership positions in educational environ-

Uniforms are a more conservative idea while the current Moline dress code is a bit more moderate.

Regardless of where you stand on this issue, it is apparent that it is not going to go away.

We need to unite and work out a solution that benefits all students and makes our school environment a positive one.

Search for new superintendent

Beyonce Gonzalez sharing her opinion on the school’s dress code Photo courtesy of LO’T Staff The dress code: one that nothing wrong with show- his or her own actions, inis both disliked and toler- ing shoulders, or a little bit cluding being ‘distracted’ ated by many students here of skin in the stomach areas, by another person’s body.” at MHS. Some argue that but agree that there should Student Mckenzie Guystudents should dress a cer- be a limit to how much skin ton, however, disagrees, tain way to be prepared for should be shown. Disciplin- stating, “I like the dress learning, but others feel ing a girl for having her code. I think there is a good that students should have shoulders showing is not reason for it. I just think it the right to express them- fair to the females at MHS. needs to be enforced. [...] selves and wear what they Moline High School Like when they say that they feel most comfortable in. teacher Amy Ciucci agrees [people] will get dress codOne of the more com- with Ashley, saying: “I be- ed. Only certain people get mon arguments against the lieve the dress code is ar- dress coded and others get current dress code is the chaic and needs updating. away with it. I think everygender bias that it displays. [...] In our culture and in the one needs to get punished As Beyonce Gonzalez MHS dress code, girls are for not following the rules. quotes, “I’ve seen girls sent encouraged to dress mod- There are rules for a reason, home for showing a part of estly rather than adults tak- and they need to be enforced. their sports bra while guys ing the time to teach young Doing it halfway does not that have tank tops show- people to respect and value show a strong school.” ing their entire sides are a person’s choice in dress.

Some schools get rid of Three Superintendent Candidates Contend for the Position left alone.” Many females I believe from a young the dress code entirely and Photo courtesy of QCTimes

ments. These three individuals have gone through extensive background checks and interviews, so they are sure to be qualified for this demanding position.

The final pick for the superintendent will be announced January 14 of next year, and they will officially begin their duties on July 1. All in all, faculty, students, and parents alike are excited for the new superintendent who is sure to carry on the proud tradition of Moline greatness.

News

3

December 14, 2018

Migrant caravan seeks refuge Honoring Bush Sr. in his passing

infestations and respiraBy:Serina Daniels tory infections.” Officials LO’T News Editor The migrant cara- said all the migrants were van near the U.S. border has being moved to a former consistently made headlines concert venue much farduring the last few months. ther from the border.

When asked why they The endeavor started with 160 Hondurans deciding to are trying to cross into the leave the town of San Pe- United States, the Central dro, often called the “mur- Americans have various der capital of the world,” to responses. Some are escapescape the violence and present themselves for asylum in Mexico or the U.S. At present, the number of people nears 7,500 and continues to grow. Last week, the city government of Tijuana, where the citizens from the migrant caravan are staying, announced that it had closed down a migrant Patrols monitoring border shelter at a sports Photo courtesy of AZCentral.com complex close to the U.S. border. The city said in ing violence in their home a statement the sports com- country, some are trying plex shelter was closed be- to climb out of extreme cause of “bad sanitary con- poverty because they can’t ditions,” and Washington feed their families on $5 a Times described the site as month anymore, and some “rampant” with “mud, lice are previously deported

immigrants trying to return to their families. President Trump paints a drastically different picture. His tweets include comments such as “Mexico should move the flag waving Migrants, many of whom are stone cold criminals, back to their countries. Do it by plane, do it by bus, do it anyway you want, but they are NOT coming into the U.S.A.” The president used this very issue as a central part of his platform in the 2016 election, so it is not surprising that he would have strong opinions on this matter. However, recent negotiations with China and former President Bush Sr.’s passing has taken some of the focus off of the migrant caravan in recent news.

Families in the migrant caravan walk together to reach the US border. courtesy of thehill.com

By: Aubrie Mozingo Lo’T News Editor

Former presidents stand to honor Bush Sr. courtesy of Chicago Tribune

December 1st, 2018 marked the death of George H.W. Bush, the 41st president of the United States and father of George W. Bush. Bush Sr. was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease a few years ago, and his health has declined in recent months.

In light of his recent passing, many prominent figures have reflected on the impact Bush Sr. has had on politics and the American government as a whole.

Former first lady Michelle Obama commented, “As a public servant, father, and grandfather, President George H.W. Bush was an extraordinary example for us all. His spirit of service and decency will be missed by many, including our family. I hope his memory will be a guiding

light for our country and those around the world.”

Mrs. Obama, who was scheduled for a tour in Europe, decided to visit his funeral and cancel her tour dates. This gesture of compassion for the former president shows that varying political opinions are no obstacle for a friendship two individuals can share.

Bush Sr. has a lifetime of service, beginning with his career as a Navy pilot in WWII, where he was shot down in the Pacific in 1944. Bush Sr. had a very distinguished career following his experience in the Navy. He had been a two-term congressman from Texas, ambassador to the United Nations, chairman of the Republican National Committee, United States envoy to China, di-

rector of the CIA and vice president under Ronald Reagan. His presidency began during an extremely turbulent time regarding foreign policy, but he was rather successful when it came to missions such as Kuwait. In order to properly honor the late president, Trump has announced that Wednesday, the day of his funeral, was to be a national day of mourning.

All in all, Bush serves as an example to us all, proving that ethics and morality can indeed play a part in politics. “The New York Times” put it best when it stated, “[Bush] represented a ‘kinder’ and ‘gentler’ strain of Republicanism....” The legacy of Bush Sr. will truly live on forever as one that represents the traditional values of the American people.

4

Editorial December 14, 2018

Why I say “Happy Holidays” not “Merry Christmas”

By:Oyniso Bakhriddinova LO’T Editor-in-Chief As communities approach the holiday season, many people find themselves unsure of whether to wish each other “Merry Christmas” or “Happy Holidays” in the month of December. Often, people assume Christmas is commonly celebrated by everyone because of how we heavily project the holiday season with decorations, lights, school specials, holiday shopping deals, and much more for the past several decades. However, this is far from the truth mainly because America’s demographics have rapidly changed with adding more voices and cultures into the melting pot mix. Undoubtedly, more Courtesy of http://clipart-library.com racial and ethnic diversity comes with more cultural differences, but many Americans do not celebrate Christmas as a religious holiday. According to Pew Research Center findings, only 46 percent of Americans celebrate Christmas as mainly a religious, rather than cultural holiday, which is a five-point decrease from the holiday season in 2013. Some people celebrate Christmas culturally by baking Christmas cookies or taking pictures with Santa Claus rather than observing the religious aspects of the birth of Jesus.

In addition, the “the holiday season” can be grouped together as the chunk of time from late November until mid-January. Therefore, we can have our most popular dates like Thanksgiving, Christmas, Hanukkah, and New Year’s, plus many celebrations that don’t get as much notice, like Kwanzaa, the Winter Solstice, Boxing Day, and Bodhi Day. With the cramped nature of the holidays into only a few weeks, it makes sense to opt for the general “happy holidays” wish for convenience and inclusion.

Because I do not assume everyone celebrates Christmas, I say “Happy Holidays.” The beauty of America is the diversity and inclusion of everyone. The reason why I have always said “Happy Holidays” is that many people actually do not celebrate Christmas. In America, a large portion of people celebrate Hanukkah (December 2-10), Kwanzaa (December 26-January 1) and other holidays widely observed.

Though saying “Merry Christmas” isn’t meant to be insulting or disrespecting, it does prioritize Christmas as a superior holiday above the other holidays around that time while also assuming that one is Christian.. While Christmas is the most popular day in December, we should not dismiss other holidays or beliefs regardless of tradition.

The so-called “War on Christmas” was even more eminent when Starbucks released its controversial festive cups last year. There are many ways people celebrate Christmas. Simply enjoying the “Christmas spirit” can be in ways other than for religious reasons. Some people only celebrate the gift-giving aspects of this holiday because of its cultural influences. According to recent findings from the Pew Research Center, the religious aspects of Christmas are declining in public life. The report finds that there are fourteen holidays in the month of December.

Granted, there aren’t too many people who celebrate these holidays other than Christmas. But the point is to acknowledge and embrace our differences. Also, this issue isn’t just about words: it’s about being politically correct and inclusive of various beliefs and traditions across the country. Truly, the choice is yours: You can say “Merry Christmas”

or “Happy Holidays” as the holiday season approaches, but it is evident that in the last few decades, the demographics of Americans are changing as we add new traditions and cultural observations. I think, now is the time to reconsider the benefits of saying “Happy Holidays” in lieu of “Merry Christmas” so that individuals who do not celebrate Christmas will not feel as if their days of celebration are in no way inferior to popular traditions.

Editorial December 14, 2018

5

Why you should keep giving in the time of receiving

By:Makayla Castillo LO’T Editor-in-Chief We finally made it! December: the best month of the year, the holiday season, the highlight reel. It seems this is the month we can finally take a breath and look around at our lives. Everything that we’ve done, everything that’s changed, and everything we’re grateful for at the end of this year.

And it seems this month we receive so many gifts, materialistic or otherwise, you can’t help but feel grateful for everything. However, when taking in all the things you’re grateful for in your life, you could use this time of reflection as an opportunity to give back.

It almost seems that giving back is all around you.

Whether it be on a tv such as the ASPCA’s “Angel” commercial or the Salvation Army bell ringers in front of your local Walgreens, there are many easy to access ways to donate. It can become so overwhelmed with everything you should give to, that you may choose to give to no one. Additionally, it seems that the giving will never be enough- that there is no way you can bring real

change to the numerous cases out there. In reality, the contributions and opportunities you have to change your community, your world, or someone’s life can pro-

ously change a person’s life, and anything you donate can have some serious firepower. According to redcross.org, “For large disasters like Hurricane Har-

tions. The change that you bring is enough. When everyone contributes, change can happen and problems can be improved upon.

What’s more, you have

impact our community.

With all the good of Share Joys, all the money raised is spent on children in our city.

What’s more, Share Joys is special because the families

A group of people volunteer for the Red Cross in Los Angelos, California Photo Courtesy of redcross.org duce some serious change. vey, [Red Cross] typically the opportunity to impact Like previously stated, allocates a minimum of 91 your own community. Take you may think that charities cents of every dollar raised Share Joys for example. or other organizations you to the program – and some- You may think that these can contribute to will never times more.” The money days full of tickets, movies, be able to fix the problems that is donated in big di- and SUGAR are a fun way at hand. But to look at the sasters “feeds and provides to get away from the stress world and all of its prob- emotional support to [the] of school and homework. lems can be overwhelming. victims.” What needs to be And, truth be told, we are Focus on one. Focus on one clarified is that when you lucky that for a few days we problem, one project, one donate, it does not end with can relax. However, what’s life. In truth, the problems you. You are not scammed or especially good about these charities take on are usually throwing your energy away. two days is it is special not easily fixable, but chari- Whether you donate time or when a diverse group of ties and other programs that money, you bring change students and friends can you can donate to can seri- into the world with your ac- come together to directly

themselves get to pick out what they need to help them.

Giving back does not have an exact formula. Whether it be giving your change to the Salvation Army outside of your Walgreens or buying Share Joys tickets, it’s better to do something instead of nothing.

Finally, when you donate, you can help find certain passions and build relationships in your own life.

John Adams, family-friend and previous volunteer with

an organization called Motorcycle Ministries, became the first alcohol and drug life counselor to get on the Indian reservation in Hannahville Michigan. Helping teens get over addiction on reservations, he looks back, recalling “[It was] hard to leave because you want to take every one of those kids in. You want to do everything for them. I felt very close to the kids... Like a step-dad. It was that close.”

Giving back can give you a sense of purpose, a sense of direction that you may not find anywhere else. Improving other’s lives can make you appreciate what you’re grateful about in yours.

Not only can you benefit the world, but you would be able to benefit yourself.

Opportunities to give back during this time of year may seem to be everywhere, but for good reason.

The benefits attained by donating to an organization are endless, not only to the charities, but also the ones available to yourself. So, if presented with an opportunity to give, you should go the extra mile and do so, for you will receive just as much as you give.

LO’T Editorial Policy

Line O’Type is the official school-sponsored paper of Moline High School. The paper is published by the students under the supervision of faculty advisors for the Moline High School community. The staff will strive to accurately report school, local, state, and national news that affects high school students. Line O’Type Signals is also a forum open to students, faculty and administration to encourage the airing of opinions respresenting all sides of an issue.

All submitted material must be signed, due to a code passed by the school board. All responses or questions regarding editorials should be directed to your Editors-in-Chief, Oyniso Bakhriddinova and Makayla Castillo and faculty advisors, Heidi Norcross and Jay Bohnsack

6

Focus December 14, 2018

MHS students scarfing down donuts to kickoff Share Joys donations By: Hailey Schmacht LO’T Focus Editor

The Moline High School Student body kicked off its annual Share Joys fundraiser with the donut eating contest on Thursday, November 29th at 7:30am.

In this event, students came together in four person teams to raise money to buy clothes for students in the Moline School District. The teams each chose a theme and made posters to hang up in the school, getting everybody excited for the event. “Dressing up definitely made the event more fun,” said Senior Mady Doucette. She went on to say, “It also just felt good to donate so much money to a good cause.” Some of the themes included Grandparents, Smores, Goldilocks and the Three Bears, the Powerpuff Girls, and Swim Team.

Each team raised at least $500, making for a grand total of over $12,500 to donate to students in all 15 of Moline’s schools.

The morning of the contest, all the teams lined up with one person sitting at the table, ready to eat all of the donuts in front of them. There were judges monitoring, an audience watching, and many camera crews set up. When MHS counselor and Sharejoys coorganizer Allison Ryser announced for all the teams to begin eating, everyone was yelling out of excitement, supporting their teammates to eat as fast as possible.

“I’ve never eaten that many donuts in one sitting,” said senior Eric Poston, “and nobody cheated at all” he added.

The Top Banana Award, for the highest raising team, was won by Kamara Dickinson, Maddie peterson, Nicole Ellis, and Kayla Veto with a grand total of $910! The second highest raising team, win-

ning The Big Donut Award, was won by Payton Milliken, Clayton Miller, Mckensie Fortner, and Hannah Evens with total of $730! The Donut King and Queen were Payton Miller and Yasmin Pannell.

Finally, the best dressed award went to Goldilocks and the three bears, which included Becca Ehlers, Scotty Ehlers, Aiden Michna, and Jake Peterson.

Good job to all the teams who participated!

Overall, the donut eating contest this year was very successful and a lot of fun. The costumes and early morning intensity never fails to kick off Share Joys with excitement and a headstart on donations. Afterall, with all the fun aside, this event truly is about helping those who need help extra help during the holidays.

MHS Share Joys Week!

MHS drama club in the improv room Courtesy of Hailey Schmacht

Aubrie Mozingo selling some food and pop for Share Joys Courtesy of Hailey Schmacht Jake Peterson, costume contest winner, rethinking how he is going to finish his donuts Courtesy of Nik Johnson

Hannah Evens and Peyton Mullikan dressed as Minions

Courtesy of Nik Johnson

Morgan Hemmaen and Megan Pittington trying to finish their plates of donuts Courtesy of Nik Johnson

Jillian Scharfe, Emerald Pierson, Mady Duecette, Joe Lobb, and Eric Poston in the band room for the Star Wars marathon

Courtesy of Hailey Schmacht

Costume contest winners, Jake Peterson, Scotty Ehlers, Becca Ehlers, and Aiden Michna as Goldilocks and the three bears

Couresy of Nik Johnson

Hailey Hunsucker drawing Christmas Cards with the art class Courtesy of Nik Johnson

Beyonce Goncalez serving pizza in J wing Courtesy of Hailey Schmacht

Focus December 14, 2018

7

MHS music department adding the rhythm to Share Joys

MHS Chamber Orchestra playing for the lunch period Courtesy of Zach Morton

By: Emily Biest LO’T Reporter Share Joys is all about helping others and bringing joy and positivity into the community for the holiday season. Select student groups at Moline decided to take part in the giving spirit by sharing their musical abilities, inside and outside of MHS. Chamber Choir, directed by Colleen Callahan, for example, has been booking gigs around the Quad Cities, singing at various clubs and charity organizations. Most recently, they sang at the Heartland Health Care Center, a retirement and nursing home in Moline. When singing there, the choir had the privilege of bringing some holiday spirit into the lives of the retired. They happily sang Christmas tunes to the elderly, bringing smiles to all of their faces.

On Thursday, the Chamber Orchestra performed some pieces during the lunch period at MHS. This group often gigs around the Quad

Cities and recently played at the Butterworth Center for the holiday season. “We had never done anything like this for Share Joys before,” said MHS band and orchestra director Zach Morton, “and we thought it would be fun to add some music to the festive week.”

They played an array of music genres, such as movies tunes like “Nobody Does It Better” and classical tunes like “Rondeau.”

Overall, their appearance outside the lunchroom definitely gathered a crowd, and everyone enjoyed the talented young musicians.

On Friday morning, senior violinist Josie Trenary and senior cellist Hailey Schmacht performed Christmas duets such as “We Wish You a Merry Christmas” and “Silent Night” by the front doors of the school. Bringing some Christmas cheer to the last day of Share Joys definitely allowed for a cheerful end to an eventful week.

The first 4 students to tweet to the Line O’Type @mhs_lineotype the correct answers to page 10 challenge will receive a free shake.

8 Entertainment December 14, 2018

The monumental music releases that defined 2018 By: Cecilia Ortega L’OT Feature Co-Editor

2018 was a marvelous year for music, with so much that it may have been difficult to keep up. With that in mind, here is a wrap up of some of the releases you might have missed.

The hip-hop genre was very successful this year with releases like “Scorpion” by Drake. “God’s Plan” and “In My Feelings” hit the top of the charts, and it was impossible to turn on the radio without hearing them this summer. Cardi B also had immense success with her debut album “Invasion of Privacy” this April. The album hit number one and gained her five Grammy nominations. This was not surprising after the success of her debut single “Bodak Yellow.” This year also included releases by Post Malone, Travis Scott, and Nicki Minaj.

The pop world also had some huge releases this year, one of the most notable being “Sweetener” by Ariana Grande. The album included female power anthems like “God is a Woman.” A few months later she concluded her Cover of Youngblood. Courtesy of AllMusic.

year by releasing “Thank U, Next”. 5 Seconds of Summer released “Youngblood” after a three year hiatus. “Youngblood” debuted at number one, beating The Carters’ “Everything is Love.” The single “Youngblood” was a smash hit making the top ten on Billboard and getting a platinum certification. Others who released albums this year include Shawn Mendes, Camila Cabello, and Panic! at the Disco.

2018 also introduced us to new artists. After the release of her debut album in 2017, Billie Eilish has become one of the most talked about artists. At just 16 years old, she has three new singles, a collaboration with Khalid, and a tour. Greta Van Fleet is a rising band bringing rock back. They had previous songs released in 2017, but they just released their debut full-length album “Anthem of the Peaceful Army” this past October.

The rock band already has four Grammy nominations under its belt and is definitely worth looking out for.

These are some of the biggest releases this year.

Find what music defined your 2018 with Spotify’s Wrapped feature. You can see your total listening time and get new music recommendations picked just for you.

With great anticipation Marvel releases Avengers trailer

By: Maya Gonzalez L’OT Feature Co-Editor

When “Avengers: Infinity War” dropped on April 27th, 2018, it broke box office records with a total of 2.048 billion dollars in ticket sales alone. It took the world by storm and received overwhelmingly positive scores by audiences and most reviewers. The cliffhanger from “Avengers: Infinity War” kept fans desperate to learn what happened next to their favorite heroes and antiheroes, and finally fans got a taste of what they had been waiting for since they had seen the momentous crossover; a trailer and a name for the sequel that showed the aftermath of the disaster Thanos caused.

Title for the fourth Avengers movie. Courtesy of MCU Cosmic

SPOILER ALERT FOR “AVENGERS: INFINITY WAR” AND “ANT-MAN AND THE WASP” AHEAD

The sequel, titled “Avengers: Endgame” (originally rumored to be titled “Avengers: Annihilation” by many fans) mainly focuses on the original Avengers from the first film in the franchise–Iron Man, Captain America, Thor, Black Widow, The Hulk, and Hawkeye–after half of the entire population of the universe had been snapped out of existence by Thanos. The heroes are attempting to recover from the fatal blow of losing many of their friends and allies, although unsure on the next move to make, as they are completely in shock by Thanos’ end goal. They hint at having a plan to bring their friends back, seeing it as their only option of moving forward and trying not to consider any possibility of failure. Chris Evans in Avengers: Endgame Courtesy of IndieWire

A hero who was not included in the original movies, and he is soon to be dead. There has been a common specbut appears in the trailer is Ant-Man, or Scott Lang, much ulation that most, if not all of the original Avengers cast to the surprise of the rest of the Avengers. He got trapped in will die or retire in “Avengers: Endgame,” and this hints to the quantum realm at the end of “Ant-Man and the Wasp” their suspicions being proven correct, at least to an extent.

When the trailer dropped on December 7th, the and was thought to be dead after the snap. The only other hero that is shown in the trailer to have survived Thanos’ internet was thrown into a craze, and the trailer has quickly snap is Nebula from the “Guardians of the Galaxy” series. gone to become number one trending on YouTube and has

A notable part of the trailer is the opening scene of quickly received over sixty million views, setting a record Tony Stark, aka Iron Man, in solitude within a small cap- for most viewed trailer in 24 hours. Fans will have to wait sule in space. As he speaks into his broken helmet, giving a bit longer to see what happens next in the Marvel cina final message to his wife, Pepper Pots, referring to this ematic universe until April 26th, 2019, almost exactly one being the end of his journey. He knows there is no rescue, year after the release of the previous film in the franchise.

Feature

9

December 14, 2018

Sequel to “Undertale” takes internet by storm Snowman cookies By: Christina Bargren came from.

L’OT Feature Reporter

The gameplay models the one in “Undertale”,

Toby Fox, the creator of the popular role-playing which uses a top-down perspective on the world with game “Undertale”, posted on the Undertale Twitter that he graphics similar to other 16 bit games such as Earthbound. had created a new game, known as “Deltarune”. He linked Fighting is similar as well, with players getting the choice to fans to the website where they could download the first fight, or solve conflicts peacefully. New elements to fighting chapter of “Deltarune” for free as a teaser for the full re- were added, however, with the player controlling multiple lease game, which does not have a release date at this time. fighters, the fighting ground appearing differently, and the

In “Deltarune”, you play as the character, Kris, introduction of Tension Points, which fuel magic attacks. who lives on the surface along with new characters, plus Although “Deltarune” has many of the same familiar faces from the previous game. When Kris and characters as “Undertale”, Fox has stated that this game their classmate, Suis not a sequel to “Unsie, are asked to get dertale”, but rather an item for the teacher more of a spin-off or they stumble into a alternate reality to it. completely different When the game is comworld, which is learned pleted, you receive a to be called “The Dark message from Fox tellWorld” which is home ing you that the first to the darkeners. Kris chapter is not the full and Susie then meet a game, and the full game prince of this land who will not be released for a tells them how they can while longer. Until then, get home. Kris, Susie, those who had enjoyed and the prince then go the game will wait as on adventure to get the Official art for the game with two leads. Via Sartorial Geek. we receive news on the two back to where they game’s development.

The

history

By: Guadalupe Cuellar L’OT Feature Reporter

Christmas trees, undoubtedly, have played a significant role in Christmas celebrations. They are famous for being the “final delivery station” for Santa’s gifts, and every year people take the time to set up a Christmas tree.

Their significance is demonstrated by not only being set up in homes but placed in offices, schools, stores, and almost anywhere else a person could think of. But why do people go through such lengths to achieve setting up these large fir trees?

Christmas trees have often been associ-

behind

ated with Christianity, but they date back long before the religion was established.

Plants and trees that remained green all year had a special meaning to ancient people. In many European countries, it was believed that evergreens would keep away witches, ghosts, evil spirits, and illness.

Many ancient civilizations believed that the sun was a god and that winter came every year because the sun god had become sick and weak. They celebrated the winter solstice because it meant that at last, the sun god would begin to get stronger. Evergreen boughs reminded

Christmas

them of all the green plants that would grow again when the sun god was strong and summer would return.

In the modern day, Germany is credited with starting the Christmas tree tradition during the 16th century. It was not until the 19th century that Christmas trees made their way to the United States by German settlers. Eventually, Americans caught on to the tradition, creating a demand for Christmas ornaments from Europe.

Unlike Europeans who used small trees about four feet in height, Americans preferred grand trees that reached from floor to

trees

By: McKenzie Guyton L’OT Feature Reporter

Makes 1 dozen delicious cookies What is Needed: ● 1 package (18 ounces) refrigerated chocolate chip cookie dough ● 1 ½ cups sifted powdered sugar ● 2 tablespoons milk ● Candy corn, gumdrops, chocolate chips, licorice, and other assorted small candies How to Make Them: 1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Remove dough from wrapper. Cut dough into 12 equal sections, Shape each section into 3 balls: small, medium, and large.

2. For each snowman, place 1 each small, medium, and large ball ¼ inch apart on ungreased cookie sheets.

3. Bake 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly browned. Cool 4 minutes on cookie sheets; remove to wire racks to cool completely.

4. Mix powdered sugar and milk in medium bowl until smooth. Pour evenly over cookies. Let stand 20 minutes or until set.

5. Decorate with assorted candies to create faces, hats, scarves, and arms.

ceiling.

Clearly, Christmas trees have had a huge role in Christmas traditions, serving as more than just decorations.

Sowman cookies. Courtesy of Taste of Home

Last Minute Gift Ideas

Christmas Tree. Via Elle Decor

● ● ● ● ● ●

Set of face masks Portable charger A pair of cozy socks New earbuds Perfume or cologne Sketch book with art supplies

● A new phone case ● A holiday candle ● Print your favorite photos and make a collage ● A cute mug

10

Feature December 14, 2018

The Grinch movie review: He’s not your typical friend this “Grinchmas”

By Emily Lopez Feature Co-Editor

mother. She’s a single ville’s Christmas presents, Christmas. Though when mas, then no one can. mother of three struggling decorations, and Christmas he sets out to steal the last He is dedicated to taking to manage work, kids, and decorations, he falls SPOILERS ALERT the stress of houseinto Cindy Lou’s trap.

The Grinch, Max, hold chores. Seeing The Grinch , dressed and Cindy-Lou Who are her mother struggle, as Santa, is surprised back again in the new Cindy-Lou Who’s wish to learn of Cindy Lou Illumination film, “The to Santa is not for toys, Who’s only wish for Grinch,” which stars a pony, or even a new Christmas.

Benedict Cumberbatch as bicycle, but for Santa

In the end, her the Grinch and Cameron to help her mother with selflessness makes the Seely as Cindy-Lou Who. her struggles. Cindy Grinch realize that The film takes on Dr. Seuss’ realizes that her letter just because he feels story in a new way. would not reach Santa sad, doesn’t mean he

In, the film, he before Christmas, so should make others Grinch is sad and lonely she creates a trap with feel the same way. after spending most of her friends in order to Once he’s in his cave his childhood alone in an trap him and tell him again, he sees the orphanage, longing for Illumination’s Presents The Dr. Seuss’’ Ginch in theatres Holiday 2018. Via Universal Pictures. her wish.

Whos hand in hand friends of his own to cel In this film, the cookies. On the night of Christmas away from the still singing even though ebrate Christmas with.

Grinch is as greedy as ever.

The film also foWhos. The Grinch devises Christmas Eve, The Grinch they have no Christmas The Grinch believes that cuses on Cindy Lou Who’s a plan to steal all of Who- and Max successfully steal tree or Christmas presents. if he can’t enjoy Christ-

A

Holly,

Jolly

He realizes Christmas is not about being greedy and wanting more but appreciating what you have. Afterwards, he returns Christmas to the Whos. Even after stealing Christmas, Cindy Lou Who invites the Grinch to the annual Who Christmas party. The Grinch feels happy to be included in the Who’s Christmas traditions and to finally have a place in WhoVille after all.

Though, many people may prefer the original monstrous Grinch from this adorable, white toothed one, this wholesome film did an excellent job at telling the Grinch’s story. Overall I’d give this film a 4 out of 5 stars.

Word

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Sports

11

December 14, 2018

Boys basketball bounces into upcoming season with high hopes By: Sarah Gustafson LO’T Sports Reporter

The boys basketball team is having an outstanding start to its season! Each team- freshmen, sophomore, and varsity - currently has a winning record! The freshmen team has won 4 games and lost only 1. They have decisively beaten Sterling, Quincy, Quincy Notre Dame, and Bettendorf; however, they lost a crushing battle against Rock Island 55-58.

We hope the boys continue having a great season!

The sophomore team has had a similar dominant start to its season. They demolished the tournament at LaSalle-Peru High School by winning all 4 of their

Lady

and Sacred Heart-Griffin; however, they took a hard defeat against Danville.

Because of the great performance, our Maroons get the opportunity to play at

the United Center in Chicago! The boys will be playing North Lawndale High School at 2:00pm on February 23rd next year. You will be able to buy tickets for

$40, $45, and $50, depending on where you wish to sit.

Following the Moline games you will gain access to the Chicago Bulls and Boston Celtics game at 7:00pm! To get tickets, turn in the order form, which can be found on Moline High Schools’s website under Boys Basketball. All order forms must be given to Sean Taylor no later than Friday, January 11th. This is a once in a high school opportunity, so turn in your forms!

(Note that the tickets are on high demand and are going fast, so drop off your completed form as soon as possible if you want tickets.)

Congratulations to the boys basketball team so far this season. We hope for many more wins!

By: Sarah Gustafson LO’T Sports Reporter

more instnese players and strong young women.”

As for the progress of the freshmen team, they have had only one conference game in which they lost, however, they came back from the loss and had a great tournament in Rockford winning 3 games against the competition!

So hopefully the freshman girls keep rising and dominating at even more games!

As for the sophomore team, they also had a good start to their season and have faced a lot of other tough schools like Quincy, Rock Island, and Geneseo.

Carly Rouse, a sophomore team player, is kind enough to give us feedback stating, “The season is going well, we are starting to work

together as a team. Our record is 7-1, and we are really proud of our progress.

We hope to continue our effective teamwork and will do so by working very hard at practice and staying focused during our games.”

And of course, we cannot forget how fantastic girls varsity is doing! They have crushed the competition with a winning record of 4-1 in the tournament at Macomb High School.

They have played very competitive teams such as Havana, Macomb, Illini Bluff, Pleasant Plains, and Pekin.

With all this success, we can only hope that the momentum keeps going for Moline High Schools’ team!

Nice job Lady Maroons!

Boys basketball gather from all schools for “Meet the Maroons Night” at Wharton Field House Photo Courtesy of Moline Booster Club . matches, having zero losses this season. In their season they have played, Minooka, Providence Catholic, Rock Island, and Plano.

Finally the varsity team

Maroons

Photo Courtesy of MHS Girls varsity posing for a picture

has not disappointed! With a current record of 3-1, our Maroons are ready to take on the rest of the season.

They have beaten Rockford Lutheran, Galesburg,

dominate

the

court

and

Along with the boys’ phenominal defeats, the girls basketball teams are also having a great year so far! Their open gym and long practices that even took place during break have really paid off and have most definitely upped their skills to ensure that they dominate the competition.

Amari Davis, long time basketball player, informs us that open gym is really something that “pushes them past their limits and helps the players gain an overall mental toughness.” She adds that the “high expectations of their coach makes them

the

competiton

12

Sports December 14, 2018

Bowling past the competition Upcoming varsity events and times

By: Tayler Gilmore LO’T Sports Reporter

As the players approach

the lane, one thought crosses their minds: to see zero pins left standing. The girls Bowling Team started its season with an intensive invite at Rock Island on Saturday, November 24th.

The Varsity girls, consisting of Courtney Declercq, a senior, and Sophomores Brooke Thorpe and Regyn Buffington, aided with placing 8th at the Rock Island Invite. The team has a 1-2 record, being that it’s the beginning of the season.

Considering the progression

of the games, returning varsity bowler Sossi Montan mentioned how “the team has improved, as well as individuals; especially since there are more girls than last year. We hope to have the team get better as the season goes on, and to win as many matches as possible.”

The girls just recently triumphed at their home match against United Township on the evening of Friday, November 29th. The event resulted in the Moline Varsity girls winning with a score of 2,446 pins to UT’s 2,218 pins! The girls also made an impressive

encounter at the Kewanee Invite on Saturday, December 1st. At this Invite, Moline emerged in 4th place out of 8 teams. In addition to these outstanding victories, JV bowler Grace Finney said how “bowling is a great way to meet new people and eventually new friends! It’s a lot easier than what people think, and it’s just a great experience getting to know everyone.»

Congratulations to the girls bowling team, and let these acknowledgements encourage all students and staff to support this year’s girls bowling team!

Dec. 20: Dec. 20:

Girls Basketball @ Alleman @ 6:30 PM Boys Swimming Home vs Peoria Notre Dame @ 5 PM

Dec. 22:

Boys Basketball @ Urbana 2 PM

Dec. 22:

Davenport North Invite @ 9 AM

Hoping to swim to another title

By: Peter Son gle event including diving. Adams has exploded since LO’T Sports Editor Looking back to last sea- the season has started, fillOur boys swim team son, the boys swim team ing in the gap sprinter Alex have had an interesting start Klumb, who to their seagraduated last son. They have year, had left. swum at 2 inBeing devites and 1 dual fending Secmeet. At both tional Chaminvites, they pions, our placed 2nd. The boys swim swimmers were team lookdisappointed ing forward with this outto winning come. Varsity the Sectional Coach Michael meet again.

Roche gives us Remi Greko, The Boys Swim Team cheer on a teammate more informathe Varsity Photo courtesy of Peter Son tion on this. He 100 and 200 states “We were lost 4 key swimmers and Freestyle swimmer states, kind of complacent going 1 key diver. However, the “We are looking forward into the Invite. As we were freshmen class have made to winning sectionals again the defending champions of up for this loss. Freshmen this year. The only comthe meet, the swimmers felt swimmers such as Henry petition we have is Dunlike they had it in the bag. Neff, Phineas Van Vooren, lap, but we beat them by This mentality is some of and Peter Adams have filled a large margin last year.” the reason why we got 2nd. these gaps. Henry Neff has With this new freshmen We were just not on par with been able to be a versatile talent, our boys are lookour usual performance.” On swimmer who can swim ing to have a very successa more positive note, our any event. Phineas Van ful season. We wish them boys crushed Galesburg Vooren has been able to fill good luck as they continue 136-47. They won every sin- the 100 Butterfly spot. Peter further into their season!

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