NS Times Volume 3 Issue 6

Percy jackson electrifies audiences, but doesn’t live up to novel See page 9

Well Said:!

“ !

!"#$%&'(%)( &"*+,&'(-%,,( $&+-"$"%.# /00(1+20(3

B est in ”

our backs to Haiti is like turning our backs to a homeless man on our porch !!!!!!!!!Turning

Said by Dave Fullmer. Because of Fullmers close ties and love for the country of Haiti, he organized a concert to raise funds for the earthquake victims.

State

Upcoming events: Today: Bar J Wrangler

concert 7:00 @ Snow College activity center Jr. prom practice 1:30-3:00

Thursday: Drill team spirit review 6:00 in main gym

Jr. prom practice 8:30-10:00

Friday: No Jr. prom practice

By the Numbers:

$4,530 amount of money raised by the Haiti benefit concert.

80

Photo by Carly Chapman

!"#$%&'()*#)+',-./#+'0,&')#1#23"*'2,4#5'6375#23'.8'39#':#,)'8.)'39#'!"";63,3#'<%=9'619.."'!)3'69.0+'09%19'%21"75#&',""'&375#23&'%2',""'1",&&%>1,­ tions. Her work will be part of an exhibit featured at the Springville Art Museum and one of her paintings will hang in the Nation’s Capitol.

BY CARLY CHAPMAN More than 900 art entries, and only 313 selected for exhibition. The 38th Annual Utah High School Art Show at Springville Museum of Art began with much success for NS. Alexis Fryer, senior, Spring City, was chosen as Student of the Year for the All-State High School Art Show and was recognized by Congressman Jason Chaffetz as first place award winner of

the Third Congressional District.

“The significance of this is she has proven herself to be one of the most disciplined, serious, and talented art students in the state of Utah,” said Justin Taylor, a Museum juror, professional artist, and co-owner of the Bridge Academy of Art. Fryer’s first painted oil portrait of someone besides herself, “Carly” was

This painting by Alexis Fryer, entitled “Carly,” will hang in the Nation’s Capitol.

936

2.7

Average GPA of non-athletes at NS.

70-64

Final score of the Manti vs.

NS game. Ending with a NS victory

Contents A & E................9 Crossword.........10 Features.............5 News..................1 Sports................6 Opinion.............4

SEE PAGE 2, ALEXIS FRYER

BY AMY BANGERTER

Number of art pieces entered into the Utah High School Art Show. Alexis Fryer won first place out of all entries.

Average GPA of athletes at NS.

tional level,” said Paul Allred, NS art instructor.

When Allred took NS’s entries into the Museum to be judged, a gallery officiator spotted Allred uncovering Fryer’s painting “Carly” from its protective plastic. The officiator immediately offered to buy the painting, but was disappointed when Allred told him it was not for sale.

“Many painters of realism

Concert raises money for Haiti Teachers’ pay may be based on student success

Number of years the FFA organization has been around.

3.3

chosen first place award winner for the Third Congressional District, a national award that allows Fryer’s painting to hang in the connecting gallery between the Congressional Offices and the National Capitol Building in Washington, D.C. Fryer and her parents are invited to attend the ribbon-cutting in June.

“She gets to leave the Utah art scene and go to a na-

Photo provided Devin Shelley

?.1,"'47&%1%,2&'@,)3%1%@,3#5',25'@#)8.)4#5',3','-#2#>3'1.21#)3'.)=,2%A#5'-*'B,/#' Fullmer. The concert was to raise money for the victims of the earthquake in Haiti.

BY BRANDI PEAHL AMANDA JOHANSEN

AND

On February 6, Sanpete County came together in order to help Haiti, a nation devastated by a recent earthquake.

After this earthquake many people in the community wanted to help those affected in whatever way they could. This is true for both Dave Fullmer and Alex Boye.

Fullmer has close connections with Haiti and has grown to love the country. He went to Haiti in 2002 to help build an orphanage, which he continues to support. The orphanage he supports consists of three buildings, two of which were destroyed when the earthquake struck.

“Turning our backs to Haiti is like turning our backs to a homeless man on our porch,” said Fullmer.

Through Fullmer’s efforts the community came togeth-

er to produce a performance that would rally the locals.

The performance was held at Snow College.

Fullmer invited a variety of community members to perform numbers in order to add diversity to the concert.

These are all people who have a passion for music and helping others.

“We have the moral obligation to help people in need,” Fullmer said The need to help people is what influenced Fullmer and Alex Boye to join together to help a country in need. Boye performed the concert on a volunteer basis.

Alex Boye, a member of the Mormon Tabernacle Choir and professional singer who has produced his own CDs. His comedic and outgoing personality and his exciting performing methods helped to get the audience involved in the concert.

“I remember praying and

praying to have an opportunity to help in some way how ever big or how ever small, and then the very, very next day I get an e-mail from Dave Fullmer about this,” said Boye.

In order to help with the success of the concert and to include diversity in the performance, a variety of genres were included.

Tom Fuhriman and Sherri Boekweg performed “All I Ask of You” from Andrew Lloyd Webber’s the Phantom of the Opera.

Dorothy Vanlentine, a concert pianist, performed the “Warsaw Concerto” composed by Richard Addinsell.

To seriously shake things up, a Snow College Violinist Terry Greenhalgh and her brothers Benson and Mayu Greenhalgh performed Led Zeppelin’s “Kashmir”.

Members of NS Choir had SEE PAGE 3, HAITI

CONCERT

A new bill up for debate in the Utah House of Representatives may change the way that public teachers are paid.

Rep. Marie Poulson proposed a resolution that was recently approved by the House Education Committee and could place teachers on merit pay.

According to Deseret News instead of being based on academic degrees, certification, and years in the profession, pay would be based on student achievement and quality instruction.

Many educators in the state are in debate about whether or not this would be beneficial and fair. Teachers at NS also have their own personal views about the bill.

“I hate the idea because if high school students know that the teacher is being paid according to the test scores, and they hate the teacher, they will deliberately do poorly,” said Kate Carney.

Teachers feel most strongly about the fact that students’ exam scores would be a main determining factor in how much they would get paid.

“I think that if it went to that, teachers would start teaching the test and just focus on those questions instead of giving students a good overview of everything,” said Cheryl Hadley.

“I don’t think that’s necessarily the best.”

Students would produce various results depending on their testing abilities.

“We have students who have learning needs who are not going to test well,” said Carney. “You’re not only punishing them, but you’re punishing the teacher too for things that are beyond his or her control.”

Teaching students who are on different levels with different strengths presents some of the problems that would result from merit pay.

“I think that’s really hard to do because classes change every year,” said Hadley. “Some years you have students who know math and do really well and other years you have students who struggle.”

There are different aspects that teachers at NS feel would prove to be negative if the HJR3 bill were passed.

“There are variables we cannot control like class size and students’ desire to achieve,” said Hadley. “We can work hard with making it easier to understand but we can’t affect desire.”

Students at NS agree that desire would contribute to the SEE PAGE 3, TEACHER PAY

2

Sweethearts hosted by FFA

Photo by Brandi Peahl

Sweethearts royalty pictured above. Left to right, Samantha Otteson, Holly Jensen, FFA Sweetheart Raberta Garlick, C%""%'D.4"%2&.2+'!7-)#*'E9)%&3%,2&#2+',25'B#"%",9'F##&#G

BY BRANDI PEAHL With 506,199 members in the National FFA Organization nationwide, North Sanpete’s chapter is just a drop in the bucket. Yet FFA week is held in almost every chapter in the United States, Guam and Porto Rico.

Planning FFA week begins in December with at least two major meetings and several smaller meetings to prepare for the events of the week. All of the FFA officers helped in the planning with some help from the entire chapter. Officers had various assignments such as making posters and gathering letters from parents for the candidates.

FFA is a youth organiza-

tion, not a club, that is recognized nationally. The organization has been around for around 80 years.

Having a Sweetheart is a tradition that was started years ago, before girls were allowed into FFA in 1969.

This was a way to get girls involved into a guy’s program.

The Sweetheart winner from each chapter would compete at an Area contest.

After Area contest winners would go to state and then nationals competing to be the Sweetheart.

For NS FFA week was held February 8-12 with the Sweetheart’s dance on the 13th, one week before FFA week is celebrated nationally.

The theme this year is Lead Out Loud.

Candidates for FFA Sweetheart competed in various agricultural events. These events included agricultural trivia, poster making, saddling a horse, backing a four wheeler along with several other events.

“I really didn’t care about the competition,” said Aubrey Christensen, a Sweetheart candidate, “I did it for fun although people thought I was serious.”

The candidates found that when they were less serious they had more fun.

FFA week was not only for the candidates but for all the members of the school as well. There were days for all of the students to dress up and participate.

Kevin Allen, the FFA ad-

viser feels that there could have been more participation if there had been more activities for the whole student body.

Another change would be to have the Sweetheart candidates promote FFA week more. Planning the week more thoroughly and together as a team is also something that can be improved. These are changes that can be made for upcoming years.

Although changes can be made for upcoming years, this year had a positive outcome. The purpose of FFA week is agricultural literacy.

“The purpose is to help people understand how important agricultural is,” Allen said.

SEE PAGE 3, SWEETHEARTS

Alexis Fryer, continued from page 1

feel they can just copy a photograph and call it good. Anyone can learn to do that,” said Taylor. “But not anyone can learn to really see and observe nature. It takes a lot of time and discipline. It is evident in Alexis’ work that she is a serious student of painting and drawing.”

The 38th Annual Utah High School Art Show is the leading art contest in the state, and one of the most competitive high school art competitions in the country. Out of 93 high schools and 936 entries from across Utah, seven jurors at Springville Museum of Art chose 313 pieces, including four entries from two NS artists.

Fryer and Kodi Kleven, senior, Mt. Pleasant, were chosen to represent NS, each with two respective art pieces. Unlike other competitions where athletes or musicians compete in front of judges, artists left their art, absent, for evaluation by judges. Kleven was surprised when two of her art pieces received a spot in the show.

“I was expecting maybe one of them to [get in the show]— but not both,” Kleven said. She has always had a sketchbook in which to practice drawing. For her recent art entries Kleven used a technique of sketching a reference on paper with a pencil, scanning the sketch into the computer, and painting the drawing electronically in Photoshop.

Kleven hopes to get some type of art scholarship with her skills and plans to pursue a degree in illustration as she gains her college education.

As NS’s Art Sterling Scholar, Fryer thinks her recent accomplishments will help make her portfolio stand out to Sterling Scholar judges.

“I make something I like then I hope others like it too,” Fryer said of her entries. “I think the judges will like seeing that my art has gone somewhere…that other people have liked it.”

Fryer has worked hard to develop her artistic talent.

“It’s not like you can start lessons at a certain age—you just draw,” Fryer said. She is currently taking a drawing class at Snow College. She admits that since she has been working on completing her Sterling Scholar portfolio, she has not had much time for drawing. Fryer plans to continue her artistic work by majoring in visual art in college. She wants to make a career in doing studio work and showing in galleries.

“I hope Alexis continues on the path she is on and makes wise decisions that will allow her to be one of the great artists of our time,” Taylor said. “She has a tremendous head-start.”

All-State High Schools of Utah Show will on display until 26 March 2010. The Awards Ceremony is Saturday, March 6.

Seasonal affective disorder caused by bad winter weather

Photo by Sadie Ivie

As you can see above, winter is still raging in Sanpete county and students are start­ ing to notice the effects the long, cold months have on their bodies and minds.

BY SADIE IVIE Summer is long gone, the leaves have fallen off the trees, the days are shorter and colder and the ground is covered with snow. These signs let everyone know that winter is about to set in, but for some these signs tell them that depression is on its way.

Every year over half a mil-

lion Americans are affected by a depression that is caused by the characteristics of the winter months such as cold weather and short, dark days. This illness is known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) or more commonly known as the “Winter Blues.”

Although adults are the largest group affected by

SAD, teenagers are definitely not exempt from it. Most high school students prefer summer rather than winter.

A recent survey done at NS high revealed that 49% of the students like summer better than any other season, and only 9% prefer winter.

“Winter pisses me off,” said Ben Davis, senior from Fountain Green, “I woke up

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the first day it snowed and bawled for two hours.”

Davis is not the only who has strong feelings against the winter season. Several students interviewed at NS expressed their opinions about why they dislike this season.

“I like summer a lot better, there are more things to do,” commented Carlie Brotherson, Junior from Mt. Pleasant.

There are many reasons why high schoolers like the warm, sunny summer months over the dreary, dark winter ones.

“Summer is better because there is no school,” said Micheal Henson, freshman from Fountain Green. “Winter is too cold and it makes me tired and unhappy.”

One of the largest factors that contribute to “The Blues” in teens is the issue of sports. Many students at NS participate in sports that are temporarily put on hold during winter because of the weather.

“I participate in high school rodeo and it sucks because there’s no rodeos in the winter so it’s boring. And it’s

harder to ride my horse in the winter,” said Brotherson.

“You can’t play baseball in four inches of snow,” said Davis.

For whatever your reason might be, you may be feeling the toll that winter is taking on your mind or body. Here are some tips to help with your Winter Blues and to make the season more enjoyable.

1- Wear bright colors.

During the winter season, the sun doesn’t show itself as often as you’d like. So make your own sun by wearing your favorite yellow shirt or pink shoes. Making your outfit brighter can also make your day brighter and improve your mood.

2- Exercise. When you work out you feel better about yourself when you see the finished results. But exercising also releases endorphins which make people happy and can lift your spirits during these dark months.

3- Have fun! Find something you love to do and do it at least once a week or more.

If you love to cook, make a special dinner for your fam-

ily. If you love to read, set aside some time to dive into your favorite books or just hang out with your friends.

Finding something that makes you happy keeps you excited and gives you something to always look forward to.

4- Eat right. A lot of people tend to stock up on their starches and sweets during the winter season. Eating these unhealthy foods can slow you down, make you gain weight and also make you disappointed in yourself.

By choosing an orange over a snickers you will feel more energized and proud of yourself.

5- Get as much sun as you can. This might be the hardest step, but it’s also the most effective. Take a walk or sit outside in the early afternoon when the sun is out.

By being outside you can soak up the little amount, but much needed, sun that’s available. The suns rays can warm you up during a cold winter day, and will remind you of the warm summer months that are on their way.

3 NS Times Staff Editor-in-Chief Chana Thompson Managing Editors Brandi Peahl Sadie Ivie Advisor Ben Cox News Brandi Peahl, editor Hannah Aldridge Whitney Nafus Chris Larson Sadie Ivie

Haiti concert, continued from page 1 the chance to perform with Boye in the song “I Want Jesus to Walk With Me”. Singing the song with Boye took effort from the students including practicing every day after school for two weeks.

“It was fun to work with [Alex Boye], and to perform with someone so awesome, yet so humble was insane,”said Carissa Roberson, NS Choir Director.

To get the audience more involved members of the audience were taken onstage to add more of a connection between Boye and the audience members and to add a sense of realism and involvement.

This concert was a benefit for those who performed and also those in Haiti. The concert raised $4530 which was less than hoped but was still a good turn out.

Sweethearts, continued from page 2

Features Jesse Richmond, editor Kim Larsen Alyssa Hall Austin Sanders Alexis Fryer A&E Carly Chapman, editor Amanda Johansen Kim Larsen Sports Amy Bangerter, editor Paul Cook Amanda Clark Layout Sadie Ivie, editor Chana Thompson Brandi Peahl Photography Hannah Aldridge, editor

Teacher pay, continued from page 1 results.

“To some students it doesn’t matter what teacher they have,” said senior Lincoln Olmstead, “they just have the wrong attitude and they’re not going to work anyway.”

Olmstead is not the only one who feels that some students do not care enough about school to make merit pay worthwhile.

“That’s retarded,” said senior Allie Miller. “The way they’re teaching won’t always reach some of the kids no matter what they do. So it’s really not fair if they’re paid on students test scores.”

One of the goals of the bill would be to determine if teachers are focused and doing well in the classroom.

“I don’t know how they even expect to measure how one teacher compares to another and who deserves merit pay or not,” said David Harris.

According to Harris they would be paying only core teachers merit pay and that wouldn’t be fair for those who do well teaching drama, choir or band classes.

“In education there’s not a fair way to do it,” said Harris, “particularly when people are assigned to different [positions].”

Despite the negatives of the bill, teachers at NS do feel that continually increasing their personal knowledge is important for the success of students.

“I think we should always

work to improve as teachers and improve our teaching strategies and knowledge of our teaching area,” said Hadley.

Some teachers can see positive sides of merit pay.

“It would make some teachers that are just coasting and not trying to teach become more concerned about their curriculum,” said Brad Bentley.

No matter the circumstance or the method of payment, teachers are focusing on their students and working hard to help them succeed.

“You have no control over what you teach or who you teach,” said Harris. “You just do the best with what you’ve got.”

School budget questions answered Photo by Amanda Clark

B7)%2='39#'((!',&&#4-"*+'B.4%2%1H'I#%8#)'@#)8.)4#5'9%&' famous head kick for a “stupid human trick.”

The week also had a positive outcome for Raberta Garlick who was crowned FFA Sweetheart 2010. Garlick says she was surprised at the outcome because it was so close between all of the girls.

“I did my best and had fun throughout the week,” Garlick said. Garlick liked being able to compete in things that she does everyday. This

along with being in FFA for four years helped her to earn the crown.

FFA week brought memories for the candidates and school spirit for those who participated. Students choose how fun they want the week to be and it is based on an individuals attitude and behavior.

“You have as much fun as you want to,” Allen said.

Bar J Wranglers aid North Sanpete in school fundraiser

Photo courtesy of images.google.com

The talented and entertaining western group, The Bar J Wranglers, will be performing tonight at 7:00 at Snow College. They were asked to come to Sanpete for a fundrais­ ing opportunity to help out the high school team funds.

BY KIMBERLY LARSEN After a lot of effort from many NS students in selling tickets, the fundraiser concert by the Bar J Wranglers for NS will be held at 7 p.m. tonight at the Ephraim Snow College.

The Bar J Wranglers is a group of western singers from Jackson Hole, Wyoming. The group consists of Bryan Humphrey, Donnie Cook, Danny Rogers, Tim Hodgson, and Scott Humphrey.

These five men, dressed in cowboy attire and playing guitars, violins, and other string instruments, perform old western songs for people all over the world. They draw many people to their performances with their music and their humor.

Sharon Christensen, an athletic director at NS was able to have the experience of watching the Bar J Wranglers perform at a Moroni feed company banquet. She described the Wranglers as a fun and family oriented group.

“It’s going to be a good concert,” said Christensen. “People are going to go away saying that was a good thing to attend.”

These concerts that the Wranglers perform in have been going on since 1977 when Babe Humphrey started the group. Humphrey was one of the original wranglers and after retiring, passed the business along to his sons, Bryan and Scott Humphrey, who lead are a part of the group today.

Although many have heard of and have seen these wranglers, not all of them know what talent is in this group. All of the Wranglers play instruments ranging from the violin

to the banjo and guitar. Tim Hodgson is just one example of the talent. He is a fiddler in the group and has won various awards away from the Wranglers including 4-time Idaho champion fiddler, 2 -time U.S. open fiddler and 2- time national men’s champion fiddler.

Each year the Bar J Wranglers show this talent by performing at the Bar J Ranch just outside of Jackson Hole, Wyoming from Memorial Day weekend to the last Saturday in September. During their off season they perform in other various places around the world.

When looking for a fundraiser to lower the debt in the sports department at NS high, there was mention of this group and their talent. After some phone calls to the Bar J Wranglers and to Snow College by coach Sharon Christensen, a fundraiser was set. A concert with the Wranglers was organized and tickets were bought for this by NS. Students who participate in sports at NS started selling these tickets at the beginning of this school year. A portion of the money from the tickets goes to the debt and also to the sports that the student selling the tickets participates in. Overall the students sold about 1,700 out of the initial 2,600 tickets available.

Shealee Austin, a junior at NS, was one of the many students who sold tickets for this occasion. She first heard about the Bar J Wranglers from her parents and her grandpa. They have all attended at least one of their concerts and know the Wranglers.

“It’s really cool in Jackson Hole,” said Austin, referring to the Bar J Ranch.

BY JESSE RICHMOND CHRIS LARSON

AND

Though the school’s budget is accounted for entirely, it’s not all in the same place.

Tracking it takes several trips to the office, an hour or two looking through files, and at least one call to the district office to make sense of it all.

Trust us, we know.

The money for the budget comes from a few different places. Mostly, the money comes from both State and Property taxes. Additional funds come from trust lands, properties in the state set aside for education. Agencies rent these properties, the money is deposited in a bank account, and schools throughout the state are paid from the interest.

The total budget for the 2009-10 school year was $59,711. The biggest chunk, a sum of $28,952, is given by the state according to how many students enroll. (658 students enrolled, making the total $44/student.)

Additionally, the district allocates money for curriculum ($9,931), a leeway fund for the instructional supplies is voted on ($11,350), and the leftover money from last school year is carried over

($9,478), resulting in the total budget.

When the budget is divided, the only recurring cost is textbooks, which is given according to a five-year cycle in the departments. This amount totaled $19,493, and was spent mainly on History books.

After the textbook money is set aside, the remaining balance is used at the discretion of Principal Jim Bowles.

Part of this money is used for CUES orders, where teachers request supplies like paper or markers.

The rest of this money can be used to buy new materials (the band program acquired new music), replace broken equipment (three projector bulbs have burned out this year at an average of $200 apiece), pay for teacher training, and many other uses. $26,962 of the budget has been spent thus far, leaving $13,256 to last until the end of the school year.

“I just have to make sure that my budget doesn’t get down to nothing,” said Bowles.

Though Bowles sometimes does have to limit spending from the budget, he realizes the needs of the teachers.

“I just want to be able to get the teachers what they need,” said Bowles. So far, it seems this philosophy works.

“As a department, we’re pretty well set,” said Kate Carney, Language Arts teacher. Carney says that, although the department has done fairly well on the current system, she would prefer a fixed budget.

Carney believes that if a fixed system was in place, the teachers would be able to save up for more expensive items, like a much-desired ELMO projector. In the meantime, the English teachers use the money mainly to buy textbooks and novels.

Math teacher David Harris is content with his share of the budget, as far as technology is concerned.

“Technology-wise, we have most everything we need,” said Harris. Harris is satisfied with his projector and smartboard in his classroom, and says that the class fees at the beginning of the year cover the cost of calculators.

Harris does admit that the Pre-Calculus class is in need of new textbooks, but otherwise he has no complaint.

4

IN OUR VIEW

BY CHANA THOMPSON

If you are one of those people who are in tune with things that go on around you, then you probably have heard about merit pay.

If you don’t know what merit pay is, let me explain. Although it has recently been in the news and has been more greatly considered, the merit pay issue has been debated for 40 years. In a nutshell, my definition of merit pay is teachers getting paid for the quality of their teaching based on student test scores.

I’m not sure how teachers would respond to the change in their salary, it just depends on the attitude they have towards it. Some teachers at NS would happily accept the challenge of teaching more intensely so that students’ would surely do better on tests.

Others I am not so sure about.

In my opinion, to be a teacher means to help the student learn. Teachers at NS stick to the curriculum for the most part. Sometimes I question what would happen if the government switched teacher salary over to merit pay. How many teachers at NS would receive a lower salary due to the incorporation of merit pay?

Is it fair that teachers who don’t necessarily “teach” get the same salary as teachers who keep the students and the opportu-

nity to give them more knowledge in mind?

Some teachers at NS clearly love knowledge and teaching students what they have learned; while others seem to be there just for a paycheck with no thought in mind for the students and the progression of their learning.

Merit pay has two sides to it, like every issue; which side would you choose?

Some of the pros that come with merit pay are that it motivates teachers to go above and beyond teaching requirements, I mean, who doesn’t want some extra cash for putting in a little more work?

Intelligent and effective teachers would most likely be more willing to stay in a teaching career because they would be recognized for their efforts.

There is currently a teaching shortage and merit pay would inspire potential teachers to reconsider teaching as a career.

I believe that through this teaching crisis Americans should be open to change. If we can solve issues through merit pay, we should consider it more heavily. If the old ways of teaching aren’t working, possible solutions such as merit pay should not be discarded so fast.

You can see how just these few examples would encourage the incorporation of merit pay, but if it were to happen there are also several cons that conflict the development

of merit pay.

Some argue that merit pay would detract from the main goal in education, which is to focus on the students and to give them the best education possible. Merit pay could get messy, how exactly could one figure out a way to pay each teacher. Where would the boundaries be?

If teacher pay relied solely on the test scores of students, factors such as the students’ ability to take a test, their study habits, their attentions span and such, do not necessarily reflect a teachers’ ability to be a good teacher. You can see how this would be a potential hazard and a kink to how the system would work; thus taking away from time that should be spent on the students’ and how to increase their capabilities to learn.

Results of merit pay in the future, if implemented, could be counterproductive.

Teachers that once worked as a unit in problem solving and such, could develop an “I’ve got to watch my own back” attitude that could truly effect students in a negative way.

Success is a difficult thing to measure.

How do you measure success? There are also several definitions to what success is and everyone has their own opinion.

We should just pay what teachers are worth to begin with. Merit pay has the potential to encourage dishonesty and to cor-

rupt the education system. Educators would financially be motivated to lie about testing and results. Complaints and lawsuits would arise.

Morality issues are all reasons why we should not incorporate merit pay into our educational system, in the end all of the bad that erupts from merit pay distracts from teacher energies that should be going into teaching students how to read and success.

The quality of education students’ receive would indifferently being effected in a negative way by merit pay.

I am torn with this issu. I can see how it can help and hurt at the same time. Personally I believe that a solution must be met to help the education system. I am not so sure that merit pay is the answer. It seems that it would take a lot of work before making it permanent. So much work would be put into it that could be spent focusing on the students’.

I am not totally against the idea either, if it increased the motivation of “lazy” teachers to do their job, without being dishonest, I’m all for it.

It is difficult to find a solution to these problems because there is so much controversy over the matter. Whatever the decision is, it should be made in the benefit of the students, which is why we have teachers in the first place.

NS Speaks: Should teacher pay be based on student test scores?

Torri Egan; senior “No”, “It’s not the teachers fault if they are placed with students that struggle.

For some students a C is a big achievement and something they worked hard for and for some an A takes no effort”

Brad Bentley; biology, AP biology and math teacher: “No”, “There are a lot of students who don’t care about their test scores.

It would penalize the teacher and there are some teachers who get a lot more special-ed students than others do so those teachers would be penalized.”

Haley Ence; senior “No”, “Sometimes some students don’t try. Its not fair to teachers who put in extra time to teach the students.

It’s not the teachers’ fault that some students are just dumb.”

Joseph Anderson; freshman “Yes and no”, “If a teacher does a good job teaching most students will get an A in a class, but there are some kids who don’t care.

Even if they do have a good teacher they’re just going to fail the class anyway.”

Lynsie Clark; sophomore “No but yes” “No, because they are teaching even if the students aren’t learning anything. They’re still teaching and trying to help. Yes, if they are failing the test, then the teachers aren’t helping them as much as they should.”

Tanya Roundy; drama, English and speech and debate teacher: “No”, “Student’s abilities differ depending on the classes they are taking.”

“Test scores aren’t a valid indicator of students all the time. That’s only one form of assessment. We should use other forms to indicate how much a student really knows.”

5

Tradition promotes rivalry between NS and Manti

Photo By Chana Thompson

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Sanpete carries on a tradition nearly a century old. Just recently Manti has rejoined NS in the same region and the tradition continues.

BY CHANA THOMPSON Tradition is something every school has.

One tradition that has been lost in modern NS High is that of the rivalry dolls that are passed between North Sanpete and South Sanpete when the boys’ basketball team wins.

Many do not know much about this old tradition that has been around since as early as 1913. That means that the dolls have been around for just about 97 years.

A brief history which is North Sanpetes’ version, of the dolls begins with the birth of Rastus. Rastus was a little black doll who sat on the piano at the old Overland Hotel situated just north of the northwest corner of 1st south and State Street in Mt. Pleasant.

In 1913, Manti High Schools’ basketball team came to Mt. Pleasant in a horse-drawn wagon for a game at North Sanpete and stayed in Overland hotel, stole the doll and took it to Manti.

At the next game, when NS went to Manti to play, the Manti boys held Rastus out over the court dangling from a fishing pole. By the end of the game, some NS boys grabbed Rastus and ran from the gym with him.

As the years went on, each school tried to steal Rastus from the other who had successfully got away with him. Finally to foster good sportsmanship between the schools, it was decided that at each basketball game

from then on, the doll would go to the winner until the next game.

According to John Ericksen, previous principal at NS, in 1938 NS was lacking school spirit so they decided they needed some “pep”. The student body officers and the cheerleaders decided to purchase another black doll which they named Pep. During a pep assembly they held a wedding ceremony and Rastus married Pep. Spirit and rivalry continued for many years, but in 1953 NS lost spirit once again.

The school experienced a losing streak, so again the cheerleaders of NS and the Pep Club provided a solution. They purchased a small, black baby doll. In an assembly they announced that Pep was dead at NS, so they held a funeral and they carried a casket out to the football field to bury Pep, but they heard a clatter in the casket and decided Pep wasn’t dead after all.

When they opened the lid, Pep jumped out, and she had a baby in her arms. She and Rastus named the baby Victory, NS really needed a Victory.

The three dolls were a trophy for each game between the two schools.

During the time that Ericksen coached NS Basketball from ’73-’81 there was an incident where the dolls were stolen by students’ from NS. At a game played in the recreation center in Mt. Pleasant the dolls were taken. Towards the end of the game the lights shut off and it was total darkness. When the lights turned back on, they discovered the Ratus and Pep had been taken. Lew Thorton, the principal at the time tracked down the kids responsible for the theft, and they dolls were given back

to Manti.

The dolls were a great sign of power and gave each school bragging rights. It was a symbol of whoever was the best, which is why there were incidents with the dolls being stolen. No one wanted to give them up.

According to Ericksen NS would hold tryouts for students’ to represent Rastus and Pep. They would use shoe polish to make themselves appear black. At half time they would get two minutes to perform a dance.

There were even cheers from the student body that encouraged their team to play harder to achieve the great trophy of the dolls at the end of a game.

“We’ll get Rastus, We’ll get Pep, and we’ll get Victory too!” These cheers could be heard throughout these basketball games.

After North Sanpete and South Sanpete districts both got new Superintendents. They felt the dolls were discriminatory so they decided to replace them.

At the time the choice was made to discontinue the dolls, Rastus was 68, Pep 40, and Victory 25. The dolls were stolen and were just recently returned to Manti at the district office. Today the black dolls in the trophy case at NS were donated from the class of 1967 and are not the originals.

Brenan Jackson, Assistant Superintendent at South Sanpete said that the original dolls were returned three years ago to previous basketball coach Wilber Braithwaite, Rastus, Pep, and Victory arrived in a UPS box at his house.

“The box had an address from back in Wisconsin,” said Jackson. “The town on the box didn’t exist and the bar code had been scratched off.”

There was no way of knowing who had stolen the dolls and sent them back. Inside the box a letter revealed that the person had stolen the dolls and they wanted a clear conscience.

After the decision to discontinue the original dolls, NS and Manti worked together to create a new object to pass back and forth between rivals to keep spirit strong at basketball games.

The new trophy was decided to be a plaque with swords and hawks to represent the school mascots and supposedly was ordered to be made in Salt Lake. But it was never done. Eventually two “Cabbage Patch” dolls were purchased, and then named Sandy and Pete. They were used in their first trophy game on January 24, 1987.

Sanpete was known as “Carrot County” because of how many carrots were farmed in the 1940’s, in fact, many Sanpeters’ were called ‘carrot eaters’, according to Ed Staker a teacher at NS of 26 years.

The dolls were supposedly called “Carrot Patch” dolls, to go along with the culture of Sanpete.

An anonymous NS student during Sandy and Pete’s era said the dolls were such a sign of power that she, along with her friends was willing to steal them.

“We took the dolls before the game started; we had a sinking feeling we were going to lose and we didn’t want to give them up,” said the source who preferred anonymity. “At the end of the game Manti kept singing, ‘We want Sandy, we want Pete, Manti Templars can’t be beat,’ and they went to go get the dolls, but they were gone.”

The girls felt guilty and shortly returned the dolls to the front office of Manti during an assembly so no one would see them.

Because Manti changed regions from 3A to 2A the Sandy and Pete dolls have resided at NS since 1987, and the tradition wavered.

This year has been the first year that NS has been able to play their rivals, the Manti Templars, in a region game. This game took place a few weeks ago resulting in a Manti victory.

The dolls were handed over to Manti.

Although this tradition has been going on for nearly a decade, many students’ at NS do not know the history of these trophy items of rivalry.

“I think the dolls have lost their meaning and the kids don’t know anything about the tradition behind them,” said Ericksen.

The dolls were intended to keep everyone involved and interested.

“I think school spirit and attendance is down,” said Staker. “Now days there are too many ways for kids to find recreation other than attending sports games.”

It is the job of the student body to carry on these traditions, or they will be lost.

Many students’ attended the final game of the Hawks’ basketball team on Feb. 12 against Manti. The Hawks’ fought until the very end and they pulled through winning the game 70-64. With the win, the team repossessed Sandy and Pete and the dolls will be in NS trophy case until next basketball season.

NS boys’ basketball ends on a bittersweet note: rival win, but no state

BY PAUL COOK

The NS Hawks’ managed to end their season on a good note winning three of their last four games, but their victories weren’t enough to get them into the state tourney.

When the team learned that Delta beat Emery, they realized that they would not have playoff to get into state. Delta had more wins in the region so NS was beat out.

“We had some rough times but it ended on a pretty good note,” said senior captain Nathan Aagard.

The first of these four games was played against the Delta Rabbits, who the Hawks beat earning themselves their first region victory. The score was 73-59 with four Hawks in double figures led by point guard Devin Shelley with 19.

The following Friday NS played the Juab Wasps at home. Rhett Bird returned to play his first game since his injury. He had a big impact on the game scoring 10 points.

With only a few seconds left in the fourth the score was tied at 51, when Bird blocked a lay up by Juab to send the game into overtime.

In overtime the Hawks out-

scored the Wasps 8-4 winning the game 59-55.

One of the deciding factors of the game was the Hawks excellent playing throughout the third quarter, where they have struggled in the past. The Hawks stayed on their feet through all four quarters and overtime, which allowed them to walk away with a victory in the end.

Dallen Bird led the Hawks against Juab with 21 points, 13 rebounds and five assists.

The next week North Sanpete played the Wildcats in Richfield.

The Hawks lost the game 63-56.

Both Dallen Bird and Shelley had 19 points in the loss.

For the last game of the season North Sanpete played their rivals the Manti Templars. The Hawks gained a hard-earned victory in a close game. Aagard led the Hawks with 14 despite fouling out early in the fourth quarter.

“It was a great game,” said Aagard, “I wish I wouldn’t have fouled out, but beating Manti was a perfect way to end my career.”

Following behind Aagard was Dallen Bird with 10 points and a

Photo by Paul Cook

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triple-double.

Free-throws were a huge factor in the game. The Hawks made 28 out of 44, most of which were scored in the fourth quarter. Com-

pared to the Templars who shot a total of only 21 free-throws making 16.

With this year’s basketball season over, players have mixed emo-

tions.

“I feel old and worthless now that basketball is done,” said Aagard. “But I’m glad I did it.”

6

Girls’ basketball season doesn’t turn out as planned

Photo by Amanda Clark

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BY AMANDA CLARK The NS girls’ basketball season recently came to an end with a victory over the rival team of Manti High.

From the start of the game the team had an advantage and played their best. Ac-

cording to the players it was not only exciting but fun.

“We played as a team,” said Alex Sorensen, a sophomore.

“And it was just really fun, everyone was pumped up.”

Although teamwork has been a problem throughout the season, many of the play-

ers have learned a lot about what good team work does for the team.

The importance of playing as a team became known not only through games lost due to lack of communication but also the games won, because of the teamwork used on the

court.

“I enjoyed winning,” senior Kara Anderson said.

“We just played and had fun.”

According to Sorensen, they didn’t just win-they killed them. The energy at the end of each quarter was

Wrestling season comes to an end

Photo provided by Shauna Watts

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BY CHANA THOMPSON The end of another wrestling season has come at NS, and coaches feel that it has been an overall success in multiple ways. Living true to their motto, “Everyday and in every way we get a little better.”

Head Coach Tanner Cowan feels the athletes’ improved in every aspect of their lives through wrestling.

The team as a whole also progressed throughout the season.

At Region, held in Cedar City on Feb. 5-6, NS placed 8th out of 10. Six NS athletes qualified to go to State.

“I thought they performed pretty well,” said Cowan. “It’s tough because we have the top team in the State [in our region].”

Although Delta took the region title for 2009-10 wrestling season, NS wrestlers and coaches feel good about beating Emery and their rivals the Manti Templars.

Jared Watts a senior from Fairview took first place at region in his weight, 152.

“Region was good because it was the first time I ever took first in something and it felt really good,” said Watts.

After region, the team went to UVU for the State tournament on Feb. 11, 12 and 13th. Most of the athletes were beat out within their first two matches.

Watts unfortunately suffered a slight

concussion during his semifinals match and had to forfeit his next match, taking 4th place in his weight at state.

“I didn’t have any control over what happened so I can’t be mad,” said Watts.

“Taking state would have made this year better because there aren’t very many state champs.”

This is the end of the road for Watts, although he did not take state this year as he had hoped, he said the best part of the season was becoming united with his team.

“We bonded as a team very well,” said Watts, “Spiritually, physically, and pretty much in every way.”

Taylor Walker, a junior from Ft. Green, feels that a highlight this season was how the team came together with the coach, his wrestling style, and the techniques he taught.

“It’s hard to make changes but, this year it all came together,” said Walker.

“A lot of the first year wrestlers did really well.”

Cowan said that a lot of the younger athletes got more mat time this season.

According to Cowan, Abdiel Silva, a sophomore and first year wrestler, did exceptionally well this season considering his lack of experience and injury.

He placed 8th in his weight, 171, at region and made it to state with a ripped tendon in his thumb, but was unfortunately beat out in his first two matches.

The amount of younger athletes has also been a weakness to the team be-

cause they lack experience. To gain experience they must practice a lot and Cowan said that the boys worked hard but they also complained a lot. He believes this is because they haven’t been worked very hard in the past.

“The kids have never really been expected to perform at a high level and it does take time,” said Cowan. “I’ll be patient and wait for it to come.”

Another issue Cowan faced was getting his athletes to listen and do what he tells them to do in practice.

“I know that I have to earn my respect and I have only been here two years,” said Cowan.

Walker said that the coaches have been really good to motivate all of the athletes, especially the younger ones to keep their spirits up after matches. The coaches were really good to help their attitudes.

“We’re a small and young team, but we have good coaches,” said Watts.

Walker feels that this season was good and it would be even better if the athletes would have had a good attitude in the practice room, which in return would have promoted success and a better wrestling program.

Cowan was satisfied with the overall season, and he is seeing slight changes that will benefit future wrestling teams to come.

“I expect a lot more wins next year and I think the kids will bring it on,” said Cowan.

Cowan plans on doing freestyle wrestling for those who are interested in the spring to help prepare for next years’ season.

“More kids will come out and wrestle at the beginning of next wrestling season,” said Walker. “[I think] they’ll be excited to start because they got to come watch at state and have got to see what they’ll be working toward next year.”

With next year’s wrestling season in mind and this years’ coming to a close, Cowan hopes that in years to come the mind set of the athletes will change so they may be mentally stronger.

“All [the] things in life you have to give it all you’ve got, no regrets,” said Walker. “You have to work for the good things.”

high with the Hawks in the lead. With the anticipation of a win in the air, school spirit was high. The ladyhawks kept up their game and continued to play hard to end with a win of 55 to 24.

Despite the concluding game, the season didn’t turn

out as planned. Coach Cheryl Hadley notes that she was disappointed with the outcome.

“I felt like we had potential to do a whole lot better but we couldn’t get it together,” Hadley said.

Although the team didn’t have great success throughout the season, the members of the team were satisfied and believe it was well worthwhile.

“At the end of the season we realized all the friendships and memories made,” said Kylee Blackham, senior and team captain.

The other team members agree that the year has been a good one full of memories and lessons learned.

Anderson said that her coaches and friends are people she looks up to and that she will never forget any of them. She also said that basketball has helped her in many aspects by learning to deal with things better.

Coach Hadley agrees that their biggest accomplishment of the year was that several players improved personally from the beginning of the year until now.

Although some may have wanted a different outcome of games lost and won, the players seem to have an appreciation for the accomplishments they have made individually and as a team.

Student Spotlight:

Athlete shows leadership through good example

BY AMANDA CLARK

Erica Draper, senior and captain of the NS girls’ basketball team, has played basketball from a young age and has continued to pursue her talent throughout the years.

Draper was inspired by her brother to start playing basketball in third grade.

“My brother played, and he is my idol,” Draper said.

“That’s how I started, but then it started to build my confidence so I kept doing it.”

Confidence plays a key role in why Draper enjoys basketball, along with the fact that she loves it all around. “[Basketball] challenges me physically as well as mentally because it helps me to learn plays and the strategy behind it,” Draper said.

Draper’s growing confidence has been noticed by others around her, including her twin sister Jessica. Draper said that her confidence and ability to be a leader shine through when Draper is on the court.

“She is good at taking command and telling the team where to be,” Jessica said.

Draper’s ability to lead others is one of the reasons she was chosen as one of the team captains this year. Coach Cheryl Hadley said this is due to her ability to work hard.

“She is very coachable, and has a very positive attitude,” Hadley said.

Draper tries to fulfill that position by being an example to her team’s members through improving her individual game and by keeping the teams spirits up so they can improve their game.

Shelby Earl believes that Draper is doing just that, with her positive attitude and her focus on the goal.

“She has a good attitude and brings the team together,” Earl said, “and she never gives up.”

Earl also said that throughout the year Draper has tried to keep the team focused on the game they are playing and not on personal matters. She sees Draper as the peacemaker of the team.

“I try to keep teammates remembering why we are hereto play basketball, and put 100 percent into every game and every practice,” said Draper.

Draper’s ability to step forward has helped others gain confidence and according to Jessica she is a real role model.

“She is [a role model] because I am not the bravest,” Jessica said. “Seeing her step up and do what she needs to is an inspiration to me.”

As Draper is an inspiration to those around her, her qualities have also helped her in her other talents and interests which include singing and acting. Draper is currently a member of the NS choir, and has been in several musicals.

She also loves to be outdoors while camping, snowboarding and fishing.

Through Draper’s many accomplishments she has come to realize it pays off to work hard.

“Even if you fail at first, keep working harder,” Draper said. “Just never give up on something you love.”

7

Cheerleaders prepare to go to nationals in California

BY SADIE IVIE

Everyone knows that qualifying for a national competition is rare, but the NS cheer team recently competed and took first place at the Rocky Mountain Championship, which qualified them to be one of the select few teams who will fight for the title at the national cheer competition. This competition will be held on the 27th, at the Gibson Amphitheater in Universal City, California.

The cheer team is proud of their accomplishment and is looking forward to competing at nationals. But because of a couple setbacks, they were almost unable to go.

Money was a large factor in keeping the team from competing, and a big reason why the school district opposed the trip, but because of a generous donation from an anonymous source, the problem of money was solved.

“The donation covered ev-

eryone and every expense,” said Bradi Goble, cheer team captain. “Without it, we probably wouldn’t be able to go.”

Money wasn’t the only thing holding them back. Because of a rule the school district has about out-of-state events, they were denied approval to go from the district office.

“The district can’t support us because they don’t allow out-of-state travel,” said Jerry Kelso, head cheer coach.

The cheer team members and coaches attended the recent school board meeting to try to change their mind and get their support. After some persuading, they finally got the boards approval.

“We got their approval but they can’t represent us,” said Kelso. “We have to go on our own, not as the NS cheer team,” said Kelso.

The team is pulling a lot of extra practices and working hard to get ready for the

Photo by Sadie Ivie

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competition.

“We want to squeeze in all the practice we can get in before we go,” said Chelsey Peckham, sophomore team member.

These last minute prac-

tices are not easy. They work hard every day after school from 3-6 p.m. and are pulling all day Saturday practices.

“We work until our bodies are exhausted,” said Goble.

The team members and

coaches have set their sights high and expect to do well.

“We have the potential to bring home the title,” said Kelso.

While the team members expect to do well, they do

realize the competition will not be easy and they’ll have to fight for the win.

“There’s going to be some tough competition, but I think we can do it,” said Peckham. “We’ve just got to bring it with a ton of energy.”

Athletes grades and GPA’s are shown to be higher than non-athletes

BY AMY BANGERTER

Sports and academics can often conflict with one another, but their correlation shows positive benefits for many students. According to students at NS, being involved helps them do better in school.

“I think it just depends on the person,” said senior athlete Justin Poulson. “If they’re worried about school, then that’s all they do but I think if they’re involved in a sport they do better.”

Poulson is not the only student who feels being involved is academically beneficial.

“Personally I think it motivates me because you have to have grade requirements in sports,” said Devin Shelley, a senior basketball player. “In sports I want to be really competitive and do well and I think that carries over to academics.”

Many students agree that those who are not involved in sports or other healthy extracurricular activities often procrastinate and suffer from it.

“People who have too much time on their hands procrastinate,” said junior Kassie Nielson, “and then they end up not getting it done because they don’t have any more time.”

Athletes feel that being on a daily routine forces them to get homework and studying done.

“I think I do worse when I’m not doing a sport because [sports] get you in a routine,” said senior Shelby Earl, who has lettered in

volleyball, basketball, and softball since fresh- from volleyball because I’ve been thinking man year. “You go to your sport and then after the whole time.” that you do homework and then when you’re Pushing themselves on the field or court not in a sport you procrastinate and you don’t helps students to achieve in the classroom. get it done.”

“I think that [athletes] learn to work hard Earl is not the only athlete who does better in the classroom and in the sport,” said Earl. during season.

“It kind of goes hand in hand.”

According to Poulson, he feels he did betAthletes also have noticed that new politer and was more mocies have helped. Under tivated to do school THE AVERAGE GPA OF NON-ATHLETES AT NS IS: the new conditions, getwork during football ting homework assignseason because he THE AVERAGE GPA OF ATHLETES AT NS IS: ments done on time has was required to go to become a forced priority THE AVERAGE GPA OF GIRL ATHLETES AT NS IS: study hall and was on for athletes who hope to more of a schedule. THE AVERAGE GPA OF BOY ATHLETES AT NS IS: play.

When he is off-sea“With the new polson, Poulson says he icy how you can’t have is lazy and has less incentive to accomplish F’s, it pushed me to turn [homework] in eartasks. ly,” said Nielson. “You have to make time or This is similar for most athletes at NS. you’ll fail the class.”

Many feel that when they are not in a sport, Other athletes agree with Nielson. their energy level decreases but sports help to “The new policy obviously motivates kids free them of stress on a daily basis. to do better in the classroom so that they can “Being involved is a good thing,” said Shel- play the sport,” said Earl. ley. “It helps you get out there and be active Trying to be a good student while at the so you’re not just sitting around all the time.” same time working hard to be a top athlete is “Sports are good recreational, relaxing not always easy for some. things so they help to relieve the stress.”

“It was hard to juggle both because your According to Nielson, having to think in freshman and sophomore year you are not school and also in sports is one reason why as tired,” said Nielson. “It gets to your junior athletes are successful students. and senior year and you just don’t even care.

“Everyone who plays sports knows it’s not It’s not that you don’t have time—it’s that just playing—you have to think,” said Niel- you don’t care.” son. “Both things are completely mental. I can Making time to accomplish everything do my homework better when I come home creates problems for some student athletes.

2.7 3.3 3.6 3.2

Not only do some have both sports and schoolwork, but there are many who are also involved in clubs or organizations, and other extra-curricular activities that require them to sacrifice their time outside of the classroom and practices.

“I’m always doing a sport so I usually don’t have time to do other stuff,” said freshman Chad Watts.

Trying to catch up on missing assignments after being absent from school due to a game or tournament is a problem for many students.

“On tournament weekends you miss school 3-4 weeks in a row,” said Ezra Hainsworth. “It’s hard to keep up with the work because you miss so much. It’s just hard to catch back up when you’re so far behind.”

Some feel that the sport they participate in doesn’t affect them positively or negatively.

“I couldn’t tell a difference,” said crosscountry runner Shane Mickel. “It never really got in the way of academics.”

According to Shelley it is often a matter of priorities.

“Some people just prioritize sports and that takes away from academics,” said Shelley.

“Sports take away adversity and that helps academics.”

Although juggling school and sports can be difficult at times, sports help many students with other everyday activities.

“The drive carries over into everything I do,” said Shelley.

5

Prom effort from students, teachers is worth the struggle

Photo provided by Ben Cox

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BY ALYSSA HALL Prom has been a right of passage for every high school student for as long as one can remember, and the promenade at NS has been a strict tradition during for just as long. But while the promenade tradition here is unusal, it also takes a great deal of effort.

Prom is a long and exhausting process involving many people. Before any of the physical effort of decorating comes into play everything must be planned. The advisors and prom committee figured that on average they would each spend about forty-five to fifty hours of their own personal time with promrelated activities.

“It’s a lot of hard work and effort,” said Ed Staker, junior class advisor.

For Staker when prom planning begins he loses much of his personal time and his peace

of mind.

But Staker isn’t the only individual entrusted with the many different aspects of prom that need to be taken care of. In fact, the faculty has created an eleventh grade board of advisors that are in charge of the various portions of prom that need to be taken care of.

Some of the advisors in charge of prom are to be expected, such as Paul Allred, the art teacher, and Brandon Olsen the shop teacher, because of their area of expertise. However, there are also many other teachers involved that students may not know about.

Along with the nine advisors who are actual members of the eleventh grade advisory committee, there are six other faculty members that have been asked to participate in the responsibilities of prom.

The faculty plays a very large roll in prom activities, but they are not the only ones who

Date ideas for prom or any other dance Snow Activities (tubing/sledding/boarding/snowmen).………$0.00 Scavanger Hunts………………….…………………………$25.00 Ice Fishing/Fishing (+ licenses)…..………………………….$40.00 Horse Back Riding……………………………………………$0.00 Shooting…………….………………………………………$20.00 Bowling……………….…………………………………….$20.00 Laser Tagging………….……………………………………$20.00 Progressive Dinner at Houses…..……………………………$30.00 Mystery Dinner w/ code menu…..…………………………..$30.00 Fancy Dinner…………………….……………………….....$50.00 Service Date……………………………………………….....$0.00 Make T-shirts………………………………………………$15.00 Board Games……………………………………………...…$0.00 Movies……………………………………………………...$16.00 Dessert……..………………………………………………$10.00 Roller skating in parking lot (ned skates)…..………………….$0.00 Make your own food and compete…………......…………......$20.00 Jump’n Jacks…………………………………..……………$25.00 Boondocks…………………………………………………$65.00 Paint Balling……………………………………..………….$25.00 Buy An outfit with pennies at DI ……….....…………………$15.00 Hide and Seek in Wal-Mart……………….......……………….$0.00 Race Shop and get supplies for dinner………….....………….$25.00

have a lot of work to do when prom time rolls around. The students participating in prom play a large part in making sure that the event is a success simply by participating. They also have to arrange their dates, purchase their formal attire, and make sure that everything runs as smoothly as possible.

In addition to their responsibilities as students, there are a few members of the junior class that are chosen by their fellow peers to make up the student prom committee.

Prom also takes a great deal of time for students on the prom committee as well.

“Like my whole life I swear,” said Kassie Neilsen, decorating committee co-chair. “So far we’ve spent at least twenty-five hours and in the end I think it will end up being around forty-five hours. So pretty much my whole life.”

Although said with a laugh, Nielson also said that she has lost sleep because of worry.

This work requires much sacrifice. Losing personal time tends to be the one thing everyone feels they have in common when it comes to making sacrifices for the good of the event. The advisors’ sacrifices range from losing an opportunity to participate in a bargain of a golf tournament, spending time with their families, and in Brad Bentley’s case, a saturday night.

But most believe that all the sacrifice pays off in the end.

“When it all comes together and everyone gets dressed up it’s worth it because they look great,” Staker said. “Our kids don’t just look nice, they look great!”

Although it requires much sacrifice to be a volunteer for prom those interviewed were glad to do it. They didn’t deny that it was difficult and not extremely beneficial for them personally, but as Junior Class Vice President Trevor Ivory stated, it’s a donation of person-

Tips for planning your perfect prom date

BY ALYSSA HALL

Planning the perfect date for prom is often considered one of the most stressful parts of the event. There is so much that needs to be decided regarding the schedule, the cost and getting your group to agree upon the activity. Here are some helpful hints to make your prom date a memorable and enjoyable experience.

Tip #1 – Don’t Over Book Often times people worry that they won’t have enough to do throughout the day, and your date might get bored. However, when a schedule has more than two or three activities planned (depending on the time extensiveness of the activity), time usually runs out before the other activities occur. Take your time and enjoy yourself as you go about your date instead of rushing to and from multiple activities. Your date will better enjoy his or herself and you will be less stressed.

Tip #2 – Get Creative The most enjoyable and memorable dates are those that are unique and creative. Doing something out of the norm, such as adding a theme to your date, can be a great addition to the overall experience. If you plan on

Black strengthens chess club New sophomore chess club president takes on responsibilities to lead his group

BY AUSTIN SANDERS Trevor Black is a young chess player who has been playing for much of his life. He is also a member and the president of the North Sanpete High School Chess Club.

Though Black’s chess team has yet to competet, he believes that they have the ability to perform well.

They have a tournament coming up later this month and they are contemplating whom to take.

Although the club has not been to any previous tournaments, they have been practicing together this year.

There are currently ten people on the chess team, and they continue to see improvement in their skills.

The club is not a large club in terms of membership, but those who participate enjoy.

Black says he has loved having a chess club at NS. He likes the chess club for many reasons--hanging out

al time for the good of everyone. To make a unique and memorable prom that looks great is the main goal of both the student and advisor prom committees.

Though many feel like their efforts are for a worthy cause, sometimes they wonder if their hard work is appreciated.

“I think it’s appreciated, but I think sometimes people forget the effort that goes into it,” Olsen said. “But it’s all for a good cause.”

In general the prom committee shared this outlook, however there were a few that felt unappreciated because of the negative comments they have received by students regarding their work.

Though some felt unappreciated, most students have a different reaction.

“I appreciate it. It’s very nice what they do.

They do a good job,” said junior Brooke Bailey. “The past years have been good, and the gym always looks nice,” Despite the fact that many students apprciate the work, many also see room for imporovement.

Most feel that the promenade should only be on the first night. Other complaints were of having the prom in the gym, that the dance the junior class participates in isn’t upbeat and fun enough, all students should share responsibility in helping with prom related activities, the advisors should get paid for their effort like coaches do for their effort, and that the advisors should rotate with their assigned class so that all faculty have the responsibility of prom every four years.

Surely there are ups and downs of junior prom, but memories are better made than left behind. There is much time and effort required to create this memorable night complete with bells and whistles, but in the end it’s an event that planners hope the entire community can enjoy.

with new friends and having fun playing a game he enjoys. He compares the game of chess to a game similar to war.

Team members and the advisor find Black to be a dedicated member of the club and one who is willing to take the lead when necessary.

“I am glad that Trevor is willing to step up and be the president of the chess club,” said Dax Higgins, the chess club coach.

As president of the chess club, Black has the opportunity to share his knowledge with other members as well as expounding his own knowl-

edge of the game. Black believes that chess makes you mentally strong and powerful.

“He is good at chess and is very dedicated,” Higgins said.

As any good leader would do, Black looks to his advisor. Black enjoys having Higgins advise the club for different reasons. Black admires his skill in the game of chess and the fact that he makes sure the club members are doing what they need to do.

“He is just awesome,” Black said.

Black enjoys his advisor and other aspects of the game.

Most people have a unique way of playing the game. Black prefers chess pieces that are made out of plastic, preferably ones that are the color black. He also believes that chess is a more challenging game than checkers, mostly because of the moves that are made.

Although he knows many ways to cheat, he believes in a fair game of chess.

“I believe that one pawn can win a game,” Black said.

Black wants as many people who want to join the chess club, for the fun and the friendship and skills that are developed.

watching a movie as a part of your date find a location to watch it at that fits the theme of your movie (i.e.) Jaws in a swimming pool, Ratatouille in a restaurant, or a horror film in a graveyard.

Tip #3 – Design Your Dinner There are several different routes you can take when approaching your dinner plans. You can supply your own food or head to a restaurant. If you decide to attend a restaurant make sure to check if they have deals or specials before a certain time of the day. Having dinner at a nice restaurant is often memorable and exciting, however the most unforgettable dinner events are unique.

Make your own food and set up a fancy dinner at a great location like a barn. Eat your dinner handcuffed to your date. Have a progressive dinner where you have different courses at different houses. No matter what you do make sure to be creative.

Tip #4 – Don’t Be Late Last of all make sure to plan ahead so that you aren’t arriving home later than desired. Getting ready for the promenade is often times a very stressful experience because the girls run out of time after arriving home late from their dates. A stress free date is a happy date.

NS special collection reflects library progress

BY HANNAH ALDRIDGE Thirteen years ago, the NS library was slowly deteriorating. Very few new books were added. No automated system was used to keep track of all the books, everything was done manually.

“Basically, North Sanpete library was considered to be the worst library in the state,” said Nan Ault, NS Librarian. Ault was eager to modernize the library when she began working for NS thirteen years ago. She explains that before the library was cleaned up, a state librarian would come and take pictures of the shelves as leverage for the state to continue funds.

The first three years of Ault’s job was to make a computerized system for NS Library, making everything automated. This enabled the librarian to work quickly and more efficently.

So why keep the old and outdated books?

“Most libraries have a special collection,” said Ault. “Ours is

the archive.” Many of the books in the archive are rare and now out of print. One such book, The Story of Our Nation, was published in 1843 with cloth binding.

The archive is filled with books similar to that. Some are embossed with signature designs of the time, others have leather covers. Pages are also made out of different materials than books published currently.

Many of these books also had people called “book designers” decorate the cover. All of these now rare ways of creating a book in culmination with each other create a very interesting collection.

So what does it take for a book to make NS libraries “special collection?”

“Old year books, things out of print,” said Ault. “Anything I can’t replace.” Ault says that it is a disturbing thought that only a few years ago these rare books where placed out on the shelf with all the other books.

9

NS teachers reveal their musical experience, interests

BY ALEXIS FRYER

All students know that the NS music teachers are, obviously, musicians. Students and others hear them play and sing while teaching, practicing, or performing. But what musical experience is hidden throughout the rest of the NS faculty? The NS Times has questioned several teachers in order to discover the affects of musical interests in lives that are not musically focused.

Each teacher interviewed noted the strengthening traits of music in areas such as learning, personal growth and determination. They also noted the benefits of music for relaxation and enjoyment and expressed gratitude for having that alternate interest in their lives.

“I only went to school so I could go to choir,” said Leah Woodard about her high school years. She now teaches English at NS. Woodard’s opportunity to do something she loved kept her going in other areas.

Woodard comes from an extremely musical family. In high school she sang in jazz choir and concert choir as well as participating in the school musicals. Woo-

dard also sang in a choir while attending BYU Jerusalem.

Currently Woodard sings in the Easter Offering Choir each spring.

Each year she attends a songwriter’s festival in Texas, which is held in honor of her father, Mickey Newbury.

Ed Staker, science teacher, is another of the NS teachers who participated in choir while in high school.

Staker also reported being the lead in the school musical, the first musical the school had produced in approximately thirty years. “[The musical] was one of the best experiences I ever had; it really helped me in my own personal development,” Staker said.

Another who participated in high school musicals was Paul Allred, NS’s art teacher. Allred also was part of a performing group at Snow College and took piano lessons from age six through college.

Allred still enjoys the piano but admits that he does not play as often as he would like. He said that he has always liked the arts and was encouraged in his interest by his parents who often took their family to performances and exhibitions.

“It helps you appreciate people with skill,” Allred said. He felt the

Lightning Theif excites, but rushes the storyline

knowledge was important to understand what performers really could do.

Tanya Roundy, English teacher and director of the current NS musicals, was very positive about the effects of music in the student’s lives and her own. “[Music] crosses a lot of our boundaries in academics,” Roundy said. “It combines a lot of knowledge.” She said it was an important part of learning discipline, teamwork and self-motivation.

Roundy participated in band, orchestra, choir and the yearly musicals at her high school. Those same years she learned to play the piano.

Currently she enjoys writing music and accompanying for her church music program.

“It’s an integral part of who I am and how I see the world,” said Roundy.

Other teachers who were interviewed also emphasized the importance of music in developing a persons character, knowledge and life decisions.

Scott Butler, NS Spanish teacher shared a statement he remembered hearing from one of his music teachers.

“There’s something about music

that kisses back.” said Butler. Butler said that people are affected very deeply by music in ways they cannot be in other ways. It “speaks to one’s soul.” He said he has been frustrated by the late emphasis in education in subjects such as reading and arithmetic, at the expense of the arts. Butler said that music is a very basic and effective way of learning and improves performance in other areas.

Butler participated in the jazz and concert band in high school, and was possibly most influenced by his experience in the marching band.

“We had a very powerful marching band,” Butler said. In Butler’s senior year of high school his band took first in state. They had around one hundred people marching on the field at games and he said that many people started coming just to hear them play. Butler felt his accomplishments in band were extremely rewarding, possibly even more so than his victories in sports.

Dax Higgins, science teacher, had a similar experience in his high school. Higgins played the trombone in band through jr. high and high school and played for the

NS drama advisor plans student excursion to NYC

BY AMANDA JOHANSEN

Photo plucked from the series of tubes called the interwebz

Percy Jackson plays the modenrn­day hero facing Greek gods and monsters in the exciting, but overly done adaptation of the well­ known Rick Riordan novel.

BY W HITNEY NAFUS Percy Jackson (Logan Lerman) a trouble-prone 17 year old suffering from ADHD and dyslexia, gets a twist on his ordinary life. After being attacked by his substitute teacher who turns out to be a harpy, things begin to unfold.

Percy’s best friend Grover (Brandon T. Jackson) reveals that he is his protector and rushes him home to safety. Percy’s mother Sally (Catherine Keener) then reveals his lineage.

Percy’s father turns out to be Poseidon, god of the oceans, and he himself is a demi-god. The three then begin travel to Camp Half Blood were children of the gods stay. Along the way Percy battles a minotaur who kidnaps his mother.

Percy’s teacher Mr. Brunner (Pierce Broanan) trades his wheelchair for legs, centaur legs.

Mr. Brunner explains everything to Percy. Learning that greek mythology is, in truth, real, Percy reveals his powers.

Having been accused by Zeus (Sean Bean) of stealing his lightning bolt, Percy attempts on a journey to clear his name and to free his mother.

With the help of Grover and Annabeth, (Alexandra Daddario) daughter of Athena, (Melina Kanakaredes) they set out in search of the three pearls that will lead them to Percy’s mother.

Along the way they run into mythological monsters including Medusa (Uma Thurman) herself.

Finally, they arrive in Hollywood, where the underworld is located.

In the underworld they face Hades (Steve Coogan) with wife Persephone (Rosario Dawson).

This movie was based on a book series by Rick Riordan in 2005.

Unfortunately this movie is a little too fast paced, leaving out too many details to fully understand the events. The movie is also missing important development in the characters. It can be labeled as an easy-to-watch movie with plenty of action.

New York, a place many people wish to go to. Some have said going to NYC is on the list of things an artist needs to do before they die. The NS Drama Department holds an opportunity for that very experience.

In the summer of 2009, Drama Advisor, Tanya Roundy attended a “Teachers’ Work Shop” on Broadway.

The sessions of the workshop are used to improve teaching methods in this field. This year Roundy hopes to bring students with her.

“It’s a once in a lifetime experience,” said Roundy The conference is set for July 12-14, 2010. Over three days students will experience what working on Broadway is like.

Roundy’s son J.D. Roundy, and Elizabeth Miner are two students currently planning on attending the workshop.

During this experience they will be able to participate in a series of classes to expand their knowledge of the theater world. During their stay in NYC they will have the oppurtunity to view two new Broadway musicals, though at an extra cost.

The cost of the conference is $600, due around the end of February. The cost of travl and hotel accommodations will be due later.

This Broadway workshop is not a school-sponsored event; the money for the trip comes out of the wallets of the participating students. The main purpose of the payment in February is to save a spot at the conference, seeing how in the NYC area it is a popular event.

Even though the trip is quite costly Roundy hopes to continue to offer the opportunity for others in the years to come.

Next year Roundy hopes for more students to be able to attend, and learn more about what is available to them.

Because of the cost cost and the late notice there are students who would like to go this year, but are unable to.

However, the chance to go to New York City and view professionals at work is enough for drama students to keep coming.

“I think for a lot of students it would be a good opportunity, it would give students more culture and going to Broadway is just awesome,” said Sarah Allan, a hopeful for next year’s trip.

The chance for an opportunity like this doesn’t come by very often, and students are taking advantage of it.

marching band.

“We worked all summer really hard,” Higgins said. Though it was very difficult and a lot of practice it paid of in the end. Higgins, like others, said that music programs are essential to teaching discipline, practice, and patience. “[The band] taught me to stick with things,” Higgins said.

Recently, Higgins and NS English teacher Ben Cox, along with Cox’s brother Spencer Cox have begun to practice together as a small band. Higgins said he has wanted to play with others for a long time and is excited for the chance the three of them have to collaborate and build off one another.

Though playing the guitar for the band, Higgins said he likes to try to play about anything he can get his hands on.

“It’s a great release for me,” Higgins said. Higgins as well as the other teachers noted the almost therapeutic effects music has in their lives and the beautiful part it plays in who they are.

Though only a handful of teachers were questioned, each has had a unique story to tell and a strong message to share through their experience with music.

Students weigh in on the Academy Awards NS Times staff completed a survey of over one hunadred NS students to determine the high school’s top three result choices for the Academy Awards 2010.

Best Picture:

Avatar The Blind Side Up Animated Feature Film:

Up The Princess and the Frog Coraline Actor in a Leading Role:

George Clooney (Up in the Air) Morgan Freeman (Invictus) Jeff Bridges (Crazy Heart) Actress in a Leading Role:

Sandra Bullock (The Blind Side) Meryl Streep (Julie & Julia) Helen Mirren (The Last Station) Music:

Avatar Sherlock Holmes Up The 82nd Annual Academy Awards will be held Sunday, March 7, 2010.

10

WINTER OLYMPICS CROSSWORD

BY HALEY ENCE AND HANNAH ALDRIDGE

Heard IN THE

Halls

While walking down the halls at the school, you hear some bizarre things that make no sense when taken out of context. Here are a few of the funniest ones we’ve heard. ­ She’s just going to be an evil woman, because women are evil. ­ I can’t feel you touching my leg. ­ [Cough, cough] I don’t know what I just in­ haled, but I didn’t like it. ­ My back hurts, my butt hurts; you can massage my back...I’m not going to finish that thought. ­ I like smelling those babies. ­ My foot is a man. Look at it! ­ I will slit his throat for grilled cheese.

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Freshmen

How many Sterling Scholars from our school this year?

are

there

Sophomore

What is the name of our new Sewing/Child Development teacher?

Junior

What is the theme for Junior Prom?

Senior

How many days are left in the school year?

Academy Awards Contest

Circle your choice for the given award, cut this section out, and turn it in to Mr. Cox. The person who guesses the most correctly will win 2 movie tickets!

Best Picture:

Avatar The Blind Side District 9 An Education The Hurt Locker Inglourious Basterds Precious A Serious Man Up Up in the Air

Best Actor:

Jeff Bridges-Crazy Heart George Clooney-Up in the Air Colin Firth-A Single Man Morgan Freeman-Invictus Jeremy Renner-The Hurt Locker

Best Actress:

Sandra Bullock-The Blind Side Helen Mirren-The Last Station Carey Mulligan-An Education Gabourey Sidibe-Precious Meryl Streep-Julie & Julia

Best Animated Picture: Coraline Fantastic Mr. Fox The Princess and the Frog The Secret of Kells Up

Best Music:

Avatar Fantastic Mr. Fox The Hurt Locker Sherlock Holmes Up