December 2018

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DECEMBER 2018|| VOL. XIII ISSUE III

SEASON’S GREETINGS

TIS’ THE SEASON A

s students begin to deck the halls with the sound of Christmas in the air, many can look to their communities this holiday season. ¶ Perry is spreading Christmas cheer by giving back to its community. With clubs on campus partnering with charities alike, students are raising money and accepting donations to benefit their cause. ¶ Senior Aidan George explains, “We’re made up of our community and we’re only as good as our community, so it’s good to give back to just show how much we care.”

See GIVING BACK, Page 3

A decorated tree is shown, being a symbol of Perry’s holiday tradition and the importance that giving back has on campus and in the community during the season.

Successful Smiles for the Season Staying healthy StuGo hosts throughout the another year holiday season of happiness

By Leilanie Rios

By Kalany Rosado

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On Wednesday December 5th, StuGo held their annual Smiles for the Season event. Bringing warmth to students and children alike, Smiles for the Season gives children the opportunity to escape reality and celebrate with holiday cheer.

This event brings lessfortunate children from the community a Christmas experience filled with a day of holiday activities.

Kindergarten through sixth graders are individually

photo by Leilanie Rios

StuGo members welcome children as they arrive for annual Smiles for the Season.

paired up with a StuGo member that they get to spend the day with.

Throughout the event, they each get the chance to participate in games and

activities that spread the holiday spirit.

The Pom and Cheer program welcomed the kids, helping them get excited for the event. Soon after,

they were followed up with performances by the Jazz Choir and Moveo Dance Team.

See SMILES, Page 3

During the holidays you are surrounded by all different types of food.

From Thanksgiving to Christmas, the temptation to stuff your face is everywhere during the holiday season. With this in mind, it is not always the “good-for-you” type of food.

Sweet potatoes roasted with piles of brown sugar, piled marshmallows browned to perfection, mac and cheese covered in layers of velveeta, pies of all kinds,

News 1-3 • Opinions 4-5 • Holiday Traditions 6-7 • A & E 8-9 • Sports 10-12 A successful season Girl’s basketball season relies on weight training in success Page 11

Introducing the lip sync battle First-ever lip sync battle to be held, open for all students Page 8

loaded cheesy potatoes, and a forever ongoing list of mouth-watering foods that makes the holiday season something to look forward to.

Although dishes hold their tradition, it can be easy to neglect healthy lifestyles, while overeating the foods that make many feel more tired, agitated, and groggy. Here are some simple tips and tricks on how to feel healthy, happy and prosperous during the holiday season.

See HEALTHY, Page 2

www.phsprecedent.com Diverse Holiday Traditions Many questions surround society’s acceptance of cultures Page 6-7

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Keeping health a priority during seasonal holidays Staying Healthy, from Page 1

Health is the balanced relationship between the mind and body. If your mind is feeling good your body tends to follow.

With this, it is important to remember that during the holidays it’s normal to indulge more, but important to keep in mind what your body is intaking.

Health has a different definition for everyone. Whether you are a size zero or a size eight you can be healthy in any stage of your life.

Instagram and Pinterest tried to show us one definition of beauty that is unrealistic and damaging to young women and men worldwide.

The media tries to set a “cookie cutter” beauty standard of “the perfect body.” When in reality this definition is so wide and diverse.

With that being said, weight is unique to everyone. Depending on all different body types, it can be challenging to fit into a slim margin on the scale. Due to the abundance of food, many people’s body weight fluctuates. To avoid overeating at the dinner table, make sure to only pick up what you are going to finish and leave the extra mound of mashed potatoes to the rest.

To feel better during the holidays it is important to drink plenty of water. Water can help flush out toxins and keep your bodily systems working the way they should. By beginning to incorporate a well-rounded diet, start with eating consistent servings of fruits and vegetables.

There are many outlets, in which individuals can search for recipes that are full of superfruits and antioxidants, lean proteins, and vitamins.

Although the stereotype revolves around healthy food being flavorless and boring, people can get creative with their meal prep and snack choices.

Incorporating consistent exercise is an effective component to keeping one’s body in condition.

Small routines including light weights, resistance bands, dumbbells and even running can help improve circulation, your mood, and energy levels.

This component can be helpful in achieving personal health goals that guide many through their New Year’s Resolutions.

On that note, your body could be in need of a cleanse. Juice bars, like Nekter and Clean Juice, offer options to reset your body and cleanse it of many of the impurities housed within our bodies.

Juicing can be helpful to those trying to kickstart their metabolism and get in nutrient-rich green that aren’t served in a typical diet.

As the New Year peaks around the corner, people can start to take a realistic approach to setting goals and achieveing them.

By starting small, people typically are more motivated to work towards bigger goals.

This allows New Year’s resolutions of being healthy to morph into a lifestyle that will benefit individuals in their journey.

No matter your size or place, there are many ideals and tips that you can follow to stay healthy and active during the holiday season, resulting in a happier you.

Through proper nutrition and incorporation of physical activity, people can begin to embrace the holiday season and set new goals.

photos by Sydney Wolfe and Mea Griffin Many changes are underway as construction workers make improvements. New tennis courts, additional C-building, and track extension will be expected.

Construction makes changes on campus

By Mea Griffin the precedent

Construction vehicles and equipment are working diligently to effectively renovate new improvements to campus.

Eight tennis courts are in the process of being demolished for the purpose of bubbles that surfaced throughout the court, in which could not be solved any other way.

These bubbles are an unknown chemical reaction in the concrete that has left officials unaware of a true cause. In order to return the tennis courts back to their prime and glory, the only process to undergo was totally demolishing them. “[The tennis court] looked like concrete that was a hundred years old,” principal Dan Serrano says. It was time to fully demolish

and replace the courts by starting over. Construction vehicles began working diligently on end to complete these courts. Along with the tennis courts, a new building with twenty-four classrooms is being constructed, a new locker room, and a relocation of track obstacles.

“We have the most student athletes in the district, and you do not want to know how many students do not have a locker,” Serrano stresses.

The student athlete population on campus takes up majority of the campus. Unless one took online physical education, they took it at campus, in which they had a locker.

Because so many students need a locker at the same time, many have to share the tiny space provided to

them with someone else. Starting next school year, new additional lockers will be in use by male athletes throughout campus.

With the student population growing each year, new additions to the school have been put to work in order to provide all students an equal opportunity to achieve in academics and sports.

The start of November was when construction of the new C-building broke ground. Currently, heavy machinery works endlessly on the building every day. The demolishing of the courts was done by excavators and compact track loaders, or, in other words, very large construction vehicles.

The track field is also undergoing a change in its location.

The track jump course is going to

be relocated to the pole jump area across the field.

All these improvements throughout the school are benefiting the student athletes in safety and a reliable learning space.

For the school and district, the new C-building is the number one priority to be complete. Enabling our expanding population to have more classrooms and organization within their classes is essential for students. Not only do students benefit from these new additions, but teachers do as well. Traveling teachers will now have their personal room, along with a less crowded class size.

Following the building, the tennis courts are second priority, and the locker room is the third, yet important priority.

Vape regulation develops with policies Students can expect new consequences and changes

By Tyler McCracken the precedent

Late last month, principal Dan Serrano received an email from the district office regarding changes to the vaping policy. The district overhauled their policy for vaping with a new way of punishment, courtesy of Marcus Williams who is in charge of discipline for the school district.

New regulation gives options to students who are caught for first-time use. Students can participate in a diversion program, changing the punishment from an off-campus 5-day suspension to a 3-day in school suspension for tobacco-based vapes.

“But that’s for first offence, non-

e k Ta 5

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He has a tournament named after him by a former student.

He was one of two to be the first to be inducted as a 2005 inductee to the Arizona Forensics League Hall of Fame.

photo by Damien Tippett Students take a look at confiscated vapes and Juuls after presentation.

narcotic,” Serrano said.

If students choose not to participate in the diversion program - which is an online course CUSD purchased - they will receive a 5-day out-of-school suspension.

The diversion program requires students to watch videos and learn about smoking. Then, they have to pass a test to complete the program.

Students with previous records

of offenses are subject to more extreme punishment when caught vaping.

“Sometimes a kid can do the exact same thing and one gets disciplined much more extreme because the student may have other incidents in their records. Once you do something in discipline it goes on your record and doesn’t go away we look at that,” Serrano said.

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s e m a J ain Fount ea with t

These policy changes only correlate with first-time offenses with vaping. If it is the student’s second time being caught, then they will still get a 7-10 day outof-school suspension. Other factors involving a student’s previous record and discipline history direct the severity of the consequence a student could receive..

“Do you know how often we catch kids vaping in the bathroom?

It’s ridiculous. We’re going to catch you,” Serrano said.

According to a student who was caught in the restroom, it is not fair that the policy has changed midyear. This student - who spoke to us on the condition of anonymity - was suspended for five days offcampus in October.

While policies continue to evolve, students should be aware of the reprecaussions regarding vaping on campus. Whether it is a firsttime offense or reoccuring, there are many factors to consider.

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He is super successful as a coach and has countless state champs and national ranked students.

He took over for Leslie Jones as a teacher and became the co-coach of the debate team.

He has tried to retire three times, “I’ve learned over the years you never know what to expect.”

by River Bradshaw

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Supporting kids with Smiles for the Season Smiles for the Season, from Page 1

photo by Leilanie Rios At Stugo’s Smiles for the Season, kids are amused while watching performances by the Moveo Dance Team and Jazz choir to kick-off their day.

Staying true to Perry tradition by giving back to local community Giving back, from Page 1

While the countdown to Christmas begins and festivities multiply, community outreach is shaping the Puma Nation.

School-wide involvement has increased over the years, making each year a new experience to learn and grow from.

With the rising number of clubs on campus, students are being given greater options to participate in community events.

Assistant principal for activities, Kevin Ames says, “We don’t have to direct students to get involved with stuff, they kind of do it on their own.”

From the Emery Bear Drive to Smiles for the Season and Adopt-a-Family, there are numerous ways that clubs, athletics, and classes are committing to the gift-giving season.

Many football players and athletic teams will be participating in “shop with the jock,” where less-fortunate children get the

opportunity to spend a day with an athlete and go shopping with them.

In turn, DECA and other classes will participate in “Letters to Santa.” Being an event the Macy’s hosts, for every letter received one dollar will be donated to the Make-A-Wish foundation.

DECA is also working to raise money for the Muscular Dystrophy Association, throughout the year with events they host.

They will also be participating in Adopt-aFamily, along with many other classes and clubs.

Smiles for the Season continues to remain a positive experience for students on campus.

By connecting with children from the community, this event shows that giving back is about setting an example to lead by.

These events on and off campus give Pumas the opportunity to see their world in a different light. Students learn from experience, rather than books when it comes to community outreach. This aids many in developing beyond the classroom, giving

Stugo impacts student involvement on campus

By Kalany Rosado the precedent

Stugo is known for organizing assembles, dances, and spirit weeks. However, many do not realize the influence Stugo has on many of the experiences the student body is able to take part in.

High school dances are a highlight of many throughout their high school career.

From taking photos with friends to enjoying a night out, dances are filled with the memories that many hold onto forever.

The face behind every decorations and ticket sale is Stugo. They are constantly staying involved on campus. Whether it is Smiles for the Season or Prom royalty, there is always something on the calendar for Stugo students.

They are a major part of Perry and remain active within the community. Social media accounts allow Stugo to stay connected with the student body and relevant in understanding what students on campus want to see.

Being student-orientated gives select students the opportunity to make and see changes on campus. They get funds from the school, but go even further setting up fundraiser.

From Make-A-Wish to selling t-shirts, Stugo gives students the option to feel like they are a part of something at school. They advocate for students by hosting their annual Perry Idol, showcasing the many talents of fellow Pumas.

By encouraging change and accepting new ideas, Stugo is a symbol of keeping the student voice audible within the changes among campus. Without any form of student government, students wouldn’t be given many opportunities to participate in functions on campus.

A school without dances, themed football games, school pride and spirit would be lost in homework and tasks ahead.

School spirit would be washed out and drained without Stugo constantly getting the student population involved on campus.

Stugo is constantly on their feet getting things done, keeping school spirit alive and thriving. They show up to everything and never fail to impress.

By encouraging students to stay active in lunch-time volleyball games, dunk tanks, and fundraisers, experiences on campus can only be enhanced through the work that gets put into the events planned specifically for the student body.

them tools and knowledge to use in the real world.

Ames explains, “We’re a good role model for the other schools,” he goes on to state, “We’re also a good example for the younger kids as well, the elementaries that are involved with us.”

Each of these activities are a symbol of Perry’s history and influence how students impact the world around them. Students are continuing to lead by example and setting the bar for other schools to follow.

By bringing tradition and the Christmas spirit to those who need it most, it shows how important giving back is to people within our communities.

DECA advisor and teacher Rob Lange expresses, “I think being a part and you know giving back and helping others is what life’s truly about or at least part of it.”

Students can expect community service to remain a key aspect of Perry’s holiday tradition as the season continues on its merry way.

After watching the spirited performances, each child is free to choose how they would like to spend the day.

From sledding in sixty degree weather to making ornaments, there were plenty of festivities to keep the children entertained.

Later in the day, Santa even made an early visit where he distributed presents to each child.

“This will be my third year doing it [Smiles for the Season],” Stugo president Grace Ogden states. “My favorite part is also the worst but happiest part, when the kids go home. A lot of times they will be crying because they had such a fun time, and it’s so good to see that we can make an impact on them.”

Stugo makes an extra effort by wearing Christmas attire, such as: Santa hats and elf costumes. This component makes the experience even more enjoyable for everyone included.

Junior Mikayla Ness is experiencing her first Smiles for the Season event. She reflects on it positively, “I definitely didn’t know what to necessarily expect going into it, but getting to spend an entire day with my kid making sure that he was happy and getting the most out of it was the least I could do. I am so happy that I got to play a part in his Christmas this year.”

Not only does Smiles for the Season create a positive experience for children in the community, but it aids students in understanding the value behind giving back.

A major component of this event is to leave a lasting impression on what the holiday spirit truly means.

Throughout collaboration, Stugo and many other departments have been able to provide opportunity to those children who don’t typically see it in their holiday season.

This annual event creates a memorable experience for every person involved and gives each child something to look forward to during the holiday season.

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Boos & hoorays: An entertaining sports season and changes with DECA headline the semester HOORAY: Fall sports had a successful season with all teams qualifying for playoffs and multiple teams advancing further than ever before. Volleyball dominated the all the way through the 6A semifinals; badminton won back-to-back state team titles, and both golf teams had players place the highest in school history. The swim/dive teams had state placers and a champion, and the football made a second appearance in the championship game.

BOO: Ever notice the person stopping traffic for you in the morning? Security guards don’t get enough recognition. A simple verbal acknowledgement is enough to show our gratitude for the staff who wake up earlier than all of us to make sure every student is safe. So next time you cross the street, be sure to say ‘thank you’ to your PHS security guard.

HOORAY: StuGo has been killing it with this year’s decorations. From spirit weeks to dances, the hallways have never looked more festive. For homecoming, the “Captured in a Dream” theme transformed the halls into an Arabian scene with hanging tapestries and mini scenes set up near the Skool Lives. In short, the team is on top of their decorating game and it will be hard to top next year.

BOO: The district (through Aramark) plans on placing a snack shack on campus taking business away Puma Den; marketing teacher Rob Lange has informed us that the snack shack may be sharing a facility with the Puma Den. The snack shack, from what I know so far, will provide snacks along with different lunch options like subs and yogurt parfaits.

HOORAY: This challenges students to advertise and utilize their education of marketing and find new ways to get more business into the Den; DECA will also be introducing a new snack delivery system for teachers only called DECA Dash, in a way it will be like DECA’s own Postmates.

BOO: Politicians have lost all civility and manners. From the repulsive advertising that flooded our airwaves this fall to the loathsome stunt the President pulled last week when he made a private meeting with democratic leaders open to the public and the four “adults” played a game of “no-I’m-not; yes-you-are” in front of the nation. Our country will not be great again until our leaders act like adults again, and that’s a shame.

CORRECTIONS

We struve to be as factual as we can we ackowledge when we make a mistake. In the Nov. 20 issue, we credits a photo incorrectly; Annie Brown took the soccer photo in the news section.

In addition, Tatyanna Clayburne, Reilly Lewis and Everett Milloy’s names were misspelled.

‘Tis always the season

by Aeneas Zobel

Perry gives back during the holiday season Jackie Rosales

the precedent It is the holiday season and with it comes the countless charities and drives popping up everywhere from your school to your local Walmart. What does Perry do to make its mark and is it enough?

Giving back is undeniably the Samaritan thing to do. Donating helps to benefit an organization and simultaneously provide the donors with a sense of goodwill.

Plancorp, an organization that discusses financial affairs, says in an article, “Many people prefer “in-kind,” or tangible, donations.” But is this act of donating as helpful as it seems?

Yes, but not completely.

Around this time of year Perry hosts the Emery Bear Drive and about 14 clubs “adopt a family.” Both fantastic are causes.

Who wouldn’t want to donate a stuffed

animal to make a child, stuck in a hospital, a bit cheerier? Who wouldn’t want to make a child in a low income household smile when they receive a gift they thought they would not receive?

Clearly without question, these charities are altruistic and fruitful but they are not as advantageous as money offerings.

“By donating cash instead of an item, you empower charities to allocate funds when and where they’re needed most,” Plancorp reports.

Exemplifying the fact that donation drives calling for money are more beneficial.

Perry is no stranger to these types of drives. In fact Perry holds these drives throughout the entire school year for instance the coin drive for the American Heart Association and the famous “Make a Wish” fund raiser.

“I think every year we kinda go ‘how can we make it [Perry’s fund raisers] better,’” Nancy Martino, the administrative assistant said. Martino as well as assistant principal Kevin Ames and principal Serrano, all come to the consensus that Perry tries its best to make an impact.

It comes as no surprise that Perry is successful in its fund raisers since countless hours and hard work are put in by students and clubs to make it happen.

However, with all these clubs coming together with “Adopt a Family” and their own individual charity events, why are they not “out” more?

“The behind the scenes work required for this type of Fund raiser is tremendous,” Ames said. But clearly many clubs muster up the effort, why are not all seemingly receiving campus wide attention like StuGo? Martino believes it has more do with StuGo being student body oriented while clubs tend to stay in their own communities.

There’s nothing wrong with some clubs wanting to say within their communities, many of their charities do well as is, but they could do more if they extended to the over 3,500 students on campus. And with wanting to improve upon Perry’s success, maybe it’s like Martino said, “Maybe that’s growth.

Maybe that’s what we do next.”

AP teacher bonuses based on test scores Abby Knoblock

the precedent Should teachers get a bonus for how students perform in classes? The question people are asking since The Arizona Republic story reported that advanced placement teachers at earn a $300 bonus for students who pass the AP exam. According to the report, if an AP teacher has three students pass the AP composition exam this year, they will earn a $900 bonus. But according to Principal Dan Serrano, that is not the case, “The teachers get $150 while the department gets the other $150.”

This law seems unfair to non AP teachers because teachers do work hard but some teachers who are not AP struggle with money. If all the money was going to the

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Perry High School 1919 E. Queen Creek Rd. Gilbert, AZ 85297 480-224-2800

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district schools can split it equally then this would be a better system. Arizona schools will collect $3.8 million this school year as a state bonus if students pass the AP exams.

The Arizona Republic recorded that PHS is fourth on the list for earning the most money, receiving $153,900,while another CUSD high schools, Hamilton high earned $213,000 thousand.

“Teachers are all the same to me and work equally as hard,” assistant principal Heather Patterson Said.

Although it seems unfair they do not rely on taxpayers’ money; around $2.9 million went to schools in Maricopa County, including charter schools, while other schools in Pima County received $673,200. “Having taught both AP and on-level classes here at Perry, I have found that my AP classes demand much more time, energy, and effort on my part than my on-level classes do...” social studies department chair Jason Myers said.

|| Opinions Editor || Tya Mounlachack || A & E Editor || Devin Jernigan || Features Editor || Makayla Gee || Sports Editor || Macie Miller || Photo Editor || Crista Ramos

The program has troubled a few critics who said it’s unfair to students who cannot afford a $94 exam fee. Teachers get this opportunity because Arizona wants schools that are inner-city and low-performing to take AP classes; this encourages teachers to push students to take AP classes.“Since students all take the same exam, I don’t think those distinctions need to be made.” Mr. Myers said.

Teachers endured extra training to become an AP teacher on top of their other training. Since this is a law, some schools are missing out on this opportunity to help their teachers and schools. I can see both sides of the argument but it’s when schools do not have AP teachers have enough passing students to make money it seems unfair.

When this became a law, they should have made each school have at least a few AP teachers teaching at every school.

staff information || Web Editor || Drew Charlet

Jackie Rosales Grant Sands

|| Staff Reporters || Isabel Behrendt River Bradshaw Kenna Cassey Vivian Duong Aubree Flores Abby Knoblock Nadine Loureiro Anna Myers Holly Olszak Leilanie Rios Kalany Rosado

|| Staff Reporters || Joielline Tchilao Grant Williams || Artists || Aeneas Zobel || Photographers || Wyatt Anderson Emily Austad Madison Marsanico Everett Milloy Annie Brown

The Precedent is published by the newspaper staff at Perry High School and is published as an open student forum seven times per year. The Precedent welcomes comments and criticism from its readers. Please e-mail all questions, comments, guest articles, or letters to the editor to phsprecedent@gmail.com. Submissions may not be anonymous; however, requests for anonymity may be honored. Letters may also be delivered to room C-116.

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: s u p m On Ca

Does the Holiday season begin too soon?

“It’s never too early. It’s a season, not a [single] holiday.”

Megan Morales junior

“[It is] too early after October. It takes away from the actual day.”

Angelina Owensby senior

“After October is a bit too early.”

Grace Pittman sophomore

point | counterpoint:

“[It is] about spending time with family so [it is] never too early.”

Afnan Mukarram junior

photo by Magnus Manske

Too soon or too late? Christmas festivities beginning to deck the halls raises seasonal controversial events Christmas celebrations coming too soon Joielline Tchilao

the precedent What happens when you have too much of the same dessert?

Yeah, you get fat and, eventually, extremely sick of it. It is the same for Christmas, as much as we all love this holiday, starting it in November is too early.

Christmas is a month, not a quarter of the year.

December is the month of Christmas, it is one special day that is surrounded by a month of festivities.

So why is it that in November we happen to completely disregard Thanksgiving, and get ahead of ourselves with all these Christmas decorations?

Holidays have their months, and they should remain in this time phrase. Christmas especially is over-celebrated, and the importance and joy of it is being buried.

To start off, we are too immersed into wanting an excessive amount of what we can not have. Thanksgiving is steamed-rolled completely by Christmas, and it is important to remember and celebrate the true meaning of both holidays. Stores and businesses are the biggest at fault when it comes to early celebrations.

Christmas has become way overmarketed. In the beginning of November around the city, decorations appear and the

television spews out an excessive amount of commercials and Christmas movies.

How many times can you make a movie surrounded around the same theme? There’s the classic “ A Christmas Carol”, or even the hallmark romance movies, and let’s not forget “Home Alone” they all have the same anticipated ending.

There are some people who think the Christmas seasons should not start so early, “After November is too early, I feel like it takes away from the actual day,” senior Angelina Owensby explains.

By starting the celebration a month in advance, the holiday excitement fizzles out by the time Christmas rolls around. After watching the same movies and listening to the same songs on repeat every year leading up to the day, when does it get too much?

This routine has to be a broken record.

A lot of people argue that Christmas is the best holiday in the entire year, so they claim that we should bring the joy out of it early.

However, Christmas decor in November or even late October is just too much of a jump start. Not to mention that Hobby Lobby begins to prepare for Christmas in July!

Saving something special for a limited period of time makes it more precious and sacred, but the anticipation built up from waiting and then on the day to free your joy, makes the day exhilarating and enjoyable for everyone.

Christmas will forever be a loved holiday, but it diminishes the magic of the season if we force it to drag on or start celebrating it too early on in the year.

Never too early to celebrate Christmas Holly Olaszak

the precedent The Christmas season is typically known for the bright lights weaved around houses, the joyful holiday music blaring on the radio, and baked goods displayed on the dining room table.

Christmas may be favored by millions around the world, but is it celebrated too early? This holiday is much more than just a day for eggnog, gift-giving and snowman cookies. It is an entire season, which many celebrate months in advance. Some say Christmas is only a December holiday.

However, it is usually begins at the beginning of November.

“Everyone who is anyone starts the Christmas season in November. All of the stores start their Christmas sales right after Halloween,” states an anonymous writer on debate.org.

“Also, who has ever heard of Thanksgiving music. I certainly haven’t, so it would make sense to play Christmas music during November.”

This holiday is considered to be one of biggest celebrations of the year, so why not give it an extended amount of time to celebrate? The feeling of decorating the tree or hanging up the lights is intoxicating and is scientifically proven to lift up your mood.

“Chromotherapy, or color therapy, which

is thought to increase energy levels and boost happiness, might be at play,” states Psychologist Deborah Serani.

Color therapy, “the use of colors and colored lights to improve or enhance physical or emotional well-being,”from merriamwebster.com.

“Christmas decorating will spike dopamine, a feel-good hormone,” added Serani in an interview with today.com.

The science behind decorating early proves how celebrating Christmas early can help improve your mood and create a happier season. Decorating isn’t the only thing that can help spark the holiday spirit. Gift giving is also scientifically proven to help increase our generosity levels.

A study from redballoon.com states that, “Neurologists suggest that our brains are wired to derive pleasure from giving.

“Studies have actually found evidence that we feel a greater sense of happiness when spending money on others.”

Gift giving during the holidays is not only a way to create a more thankful and cheerful season, but it can also prove to our loved ones how much we care by exchanging gifts.

Christmas should continue to be celebrated early, not only because it includes numerous activities, but also because it creates a happier community.

This season is scientifically proven to improve our moods,so why shouldn’t it be celebrated early? Pushing this holiday into the beginning or middle of November is not a dramatic change and stretching the seasonal activities into Thanksgiving can transform into a more festive outcome.

Deep Equity in Chandler schools: a stride forward for education Grant Williams

the precedent

As well-intentioned as the educational philosophy of past generations and its notion to “not see” color or religion or anything else may be, this attitude is becoming increasingly incongruous with a rapidly diversifying America.

The Chandler Unified School District shares the perspective that just as our student populace has transformed significantly in cultural, economic, and political composition over the years, so too must the system of learning and administration in our city.

Alongside districts across the nation, CUSD is investing in “Deep Equity” trainings for its

faculty, addressing biases held by educators and students alike in an effort to heighten inclusion on campus, encourage sensitivity in speech, and celebrate diversity and differences.

This is not political; it is not some “leftist construction,” a contrived story line attributed to “hypersensitivity” and “political correctness.”

It is a response to decades of divides in test scores between various demographics and student profiles. It is bold for the district to parents and students a commitment to equity in opportunity and compassion. It is a district-wide effort to encourage unity by way of differences, not despite them.

Beyond merely supporting and endorsing the initiative, CUSD is also organizing teams of teachers and students to receive professional training and engage in discussion.

In Perry’s case, educators like Norma Ríos (Spanish) and John Prothro (social studies) attend training sessions with colleagues

across the district as they learn about specific educational habits to encourage civility in the classroom without treating sensitive subjects like race, gender, and political preferences as taboo. This small team of teachers is then responsible for relaying the information from the training to other faculty members on Perry’s professional development days.

Speaking with Ríos, I got a sense of the breadth of backgrounds captured by Deep Equity and, in her words, the importance of “each student’s access to information” and self-expression.

This initiative is not intended to provide “overnight” results or dramatically overhaul teacher protocol. Prothro said in this first year, the primary goal is to make “teachers more aware of the different people sitting in the classroom” and commit to addressing the “implicit biases” universal to every educator.

On the student-led leg of the initiative, photography teacher Megan DrivingHawk and math teacher Eric Rygiel serve as facilitators of Perry’s Youth Equity

Stewardship (YES) program. This team is composed of 15 students representing a crosssection of the campus population; the group meeting with other YES teams from nearby schools as they discuss and plan studentdriven efforts toward encouraging harmony on campus.

As I spoke with Mrs. Driving-Hawk, I was fascinated by her assertion that she herself was a “learner” from these 15 students, and I was impressed to hear that the group is currently in plans to organize a multicultural festival in the latter half of second semester.

Chandler’s investment in Deep Equity programming is a stride forward for Perry students and all other individuals in the rising generation.

Assistant-principal Kevin Ames said the initiative is not intended to engender some “intimately involved” process of selfexploration, but is broadly a training for PHS students and faculty to understand one another, supplying us “a better understanding of who we are.”

6 || features

the precedent || phsprecedent.com

december || 2018

‘Tis the season for celebrating one and all PHS families celebrate more than Christmas each year

I

By Nadine Loureiro the precedent

t is the time of the year where the holiday season truly rises and embraces the souls of many.

The stores have Christmas music filling in the silence, Hallmark movies are big once again, and decorations are being put up in every empty corner. Even in school, there are spirit weeks dedicated to the grand winter holiday and decorations cover the walls.

In the midst of the holiday rush, we tend to forget about the other holidays that do not get nearly as much excitement as Christmas does.

Many religions have a variety of different holidays that get stashed away in the back behind the pile of trees filled with ornaments.

Hanukkah began this year on Dec. 2. Sophomore Dayton Jones celebrates the Jewish holiday every year. “It’s eight days and we light candles, we say a prayer, and then we get a present after that,” she states. “The last Sunday of every Hanukkah we go have a big family Hanukkah and it’s almost like a second Christmas in a way, it’s really fun we have a bunch of food, like latkes.”

Latkes are potato pancakes, a traditional dish that is made at every Hanukkah festival. There are also other traditional aspects of the

Jewish holiday: the menorah, which is a candelabrum where each stick is lit up throughout the eight days of Hanukkah.

A problem that many do not stop to consider, is the fact that everything that hangs from the walls representing the popular holiday can be overwhelming.

Even hearing the word “Christmas” being passed around in the halls, can make it hard for people that practice other traditions.

“It’s difficult,” Principal Dan Serrano commented, “I think now in today’s

culture we have to be more sensitive, more careful of imposing traditions, that some students may not be accustomed to.

So it’s tricky. We have to be sensitive to their traditions as well.”

There are a variety of different holidays that come with other religions.

With not enough representation and being surrounded by American celebrated holidays, it can make many students uncomfortable.

“We need to be, as a school district, sensitive to people’s races, religions, backgrounds, so we don’t

do something that’s insensitive,” Serrano commented.

Sophomore Basma Alhassen practices the Islamic faith, and she explained one particular holiday that was celebrated after Ramadan, which is a month of fasting.

“We have this thing called Eid and basically we celebrate it after we fast for 30 days, and basically we fast because we want to feel how the people [felt] like [when] they didn’t have any food and they just try to feel their pain and also to get closer to God,” Alhassen stated.

Eid is not marked on a specific date on the calendar, there are two portions, Eid al-Fitr and Eid alAdha. Eid al-Adha, also known as the “Feast of Sacrifice” is celebrated before Ramadan begins. Eid al-Fitr is the celebration that takes place after the entire month of fasting.

The best clothes are worn, prayers take place, and festivities involving delicious food is mixed into this event.

These holidays are only a slice from the big world we live in, which we are lucky to be able to observe and learn about in our own campus.

Perry is a melting pot of different ethnicities and religions, each of them bringing a wonderful flavor and enriching experiences to the hallways.

the precedent || phsprecedent.com

features || 7

One season, two holidays: what its like living in a dual-religion household ABBY KNOBLOCK the precedent

Growing up in a household that celebrates both Hanukkah and Christmas strikes confusion. Explaining how I celebrated both when I was younger was difficult because I thought everyone celebrated both holiday’s until I grew up.

I’m allowed to do both because only one of my parents are Jewish.

My mother grew up in a split household as well, she grew up half Jewish because my grandfather emigrated from Europe and my grandmother was from California. She also got to celebrate both Hanukkah and Christmas.

My father grew up as Catholic, but now is just a “regular guy” as he likes to put it.

He is a person who does not care too much for religion but when he was younger he would only celebrate Christmas.

As a family we only decorate the house with my grandfathers menorah and a few Christmas lights. My mother and I say the prayers and light the menorah and I get to open one present each night for eight days straight.

When I was younger, we would go crazy with the Christmas lights outside the house and put up a tree, but since I’m the only child, my parents do not feel like the tree and lights bring as much joy as before.

Hanukkah is an odd holiday because, unlike Christmas, there is no set date.

It could start any day in December but usually it starts early or the middle of the month, rarely when Christmas is going happening. Due to my family living in California and Seattle we can never see them during the holidays.

When Hanukkah comes around, my

photo by Rebecca Siegel

Like many other PHS students, senior Abby Knoblock’s family celebrates the Jewish holiday of Hanukkah in early-mid-December. What makes the Knoblock family unique, however, is it is a dual-faith home, meaning they celebrate more than just Hanukkah – they also have Christmas traditions every winter.

mother goes out and buys kosher food from Chompie’s for everyone.

Kosher is food that included ingredients conform to the body of law that deals with the processing and preparation of food so Jewish people are allowed to eat that piece of food. Since I’m in a split household and Hanukkah is over by Christmas, my family and I always order Chinese food.

I love celebrating both because I get to experience something that others do not always get to see a side of.

When telling people I live in the split household, they think I get double the presents and that is not the case at all.

I think people are getting more knowledgeable about how people do not just celebrate one holiday. Before high school, I was the only one that would do split holiday celebrations but now many people are more aware of what it is.

Facts about Jewish culture -Judaism can be translated to “the Kingdom of Judah”.

-The symbol of Judaism is the Star of David.

-Yahweh is the name of God for Jewish practicers.

Holidays can be difficult time for teens whose parents are divorced; student poll says 20 percent of PHS families are divorced

By River Bradshaw the precedent

Divorce is something that sends shock waves through a family and during the holidays the standard nightmare of being around in-laws and annoying cousins becomes ten times worse. This isn’t just a small issue considering that forty to fifty percent of marriages will end in a divorce, leaving half of America’s kids with this problem.

Arizona isn’t exempt from this epidemic standing at 10th for divorced families and on campus, 20 percent of teens say they are left in a split household.

Infographic made by Anna Myers and Nadine Loureiro

The effects of divorces are felt all around our school, and senior Logan Rud knows firsthand how hard it can be to split your time especially around the holidays. Just earlier this year, Rud’s father moved up to Wisconsin with his step-family, destroying the annual tradition of splitting half of a holiday with one parent and half with the other. Instead, he travels and spends the whole week with his dad and step-family.

Although the traveling and cousins can get annoying, spending time with family especially around the holidays brings back happy memories of days jam-packed with fun and vacations overflowing adventure.

Rud’s dad is making the most of the time he has and is taking Rud and his stepfamily down to Florida for one of those memorable trips.

To a child, two Christmases sounds like heaven, but when you get older and more mature, it keeps becoming more of a nuisance to travel between houses or having to fly hundreds of miles and then right back a few days later.

English teacher Damien Tippett has been teaching at Perry for 11 years and knows how challenging it can be when you start becoming an adult and have to deal with divorced parents.

In his early high school years, Tippett’s parents separated, and he decided to live with his father in an apartment not far from his mom and sisters. It was always a chore for him traveling between two houses during the holidays. But when he started to get a family of his own the task of taking them between 3-or-4 houses a day becomes more tiresome.

“It is emotionally taxing when you have to do three holidays in one day.

“Having divorced parents as a teenager is extremely difficult for countless reasons, and it can be amplified during the holidays,” he said.

To those going through a divorce or have divorced parents, Tippett advises: “It’s what you make of it, you have to go into it with a glass half full and enjoy your friends and family and the spirit of the holidays.”

8 || arts and entertainment

phsprecedent.com

december || 2018

Choir & orchestra team up for night of music Isabel Behrendt the precedent

The orchestra and choir winter concerts proved to be a unique blend of music and remarkable talent that showcased Perry’s most gifted musicians.

Fine arts performances tend to set the mood for the holiday season. Each group sang or played a variety of holiday or classical compositions. The warmth of the holiday carols, and the sight students smiling and swaying to the rhythm showed the joy and cheer brought on by the choirs’ and orchestras’ passionate performance.

To make this concert more universal and captivating towards the audience, members from the school’s band, orchestra, and choir were all featured in the orchestra and choir winter concerts.

The mix of voices and instruments throughout the auditorium was truly earth-shattering, and it sent chills around the room with beautiful sounds bouncing off each wall.

Take orchestra for example: in this winter concert, the chamber orchestra performed “Fantasia on Greensleeves” that featured two flute leads: Se Bin Lee and Elliana Roesler. These performers were able to play with power, but were delicate and able to create a reverberating sound around the stage. Piano lead Cole Siegrist accompanied the chamber orchestra in “Stille Nacht” along with first-chair cellist Anya Yu also as a lead.

Additionally, the choir ensemble sang the Hallelujah Chorus from the Messiah with the orchestra. Remarkably enough, the chamber orchestra had a violin or cello lead in the vast majority of their songs.

To appeal to the culturally diverse audience, all orchestras played a mix of

traditional and holiday music that gave a sophisticated twist on a classic piece that most could recognize.

Five days later, the choir groups held an phenomenal concert filled with joy, talent, and beautiful singing that made an ordinary holiday song extraordinary with advanced shifts in tone, complementary melodies and harmonies, and overall extremely happy students who were eager to showcase their talents that took several hours of dedicated practice and patience.

A total of six choirs ended up performing that night - including members of the Glee Club. As explained earlier, students were truly passionate about their music and it showed once they became one with the rhythm. The choir students were no acceptation! One of the best parts of the performance was seeing the students smile at each other and the audience as they sang their hearts out. This showed true dedication and that you can balance out professionalism and just plain fun!

Similar to the orchestra concert, members from band and orchestra accompanied the choir in their songs.

Additionally, pianist Ben Scolaro accompanied almost every song sang by the choirs and made each voice tie in with each other.

Members from the orchestra accompanied the choirs in a total of three songs, and percussionists from the band accompanied the choirs in a total of six songs.

In other words, the choir and orchestra winter concerts were a professional-sounding and amazing collaboration with other talented musicians that proved how special and diverse Perry’s fine arts players and teachers truly are.

photo by Jenne Linde

Student sings solo for the advanced woman’s choir in Perry High School’s winter choir concert. Concert took place night of December 11th, 2019, in the Perry High Theatrical Hall.

Theater brings lip sync to PHS continue hosting in the following Vivian Duong the precedent

Theatre hosted the school’s first ever lip-syncing competition that was opened to all individuals not only secluded to theatre students.

When moving lips silently in synchronization with a song that has already been pre-recorded, students prepared to battle it out for the competition prize money from the entrance fee from all the participants.

“The goal is to build it and get more clubs and more groups to come in and do something fun together,” Shawna Marquis, head of the competition and technical theatre teacher says. It was a different thing to set out in the auditorium hoping for a new tradition to start in the upcoming years.

It started with “brainstorming [for] different events, specifically things that we could do for fund raisers,” Marquis adds. As the idea started from the popular show of Lip Sync Battle. Where stars battle it out with lip-sync performances.

“Higley High does a lip-sync battle that is a huge, huge event for them, so we’re hoping that in the future that this will turn into something like that,” Marquis points out. As the excitement can hopefully continue within the students to drive theatre to

years. As she soon expresses hope that this will be a fun thing to try out in school.

“I like music and I’ve watched just about every Jimmy Fallon episode where he does a lip-sync battle,” Jason Myers AP U.S. history teacher inputs. Mentioning his judgements was based on song choice, the technical side, and the overall performance.

“We wanted to do something that involved more than just the theatre kids,” Marquis adds that will make an enjoyable experience to those who participate and attend the competition.

“We thought it’d be super awesome and super funny,” junior Matt Dougherty comments, “and it was different,” junior Jake Cawley includes. Both students prepared for their own stage along with other teammates battling it out in the tournament.

“I think it’s kinda going to be silly,” Dougherty says. In which the students and audience can have an exciting time to express in a certain manner and fashion of not really singing. Putting on a good show to have some entertainment for the night.

The competition itself will hopefully have more additions in the show to continue this fund raiser and idea that will be amusing to everyone around.

Starbucks V. Dutch Bros: Which one offers best holiday drinks?

Crista Ramos the precedent

The Christmas season is here and we are running around getting ready for holiday parties, finding the perfect gifts and of course making our favorite Christmas cookies.

Trying some new holiday drinks should be on top of your list this Christmas as well. Dutch Bros and Starbucks have some great choices, so get in the holiday spirit and try some!

My first drink was from Starbucks and I had a small Peppermint Mocha which is just a fancy coffee with more flavor. Out of the six drinks I tried this one was the best.

The moment you pick up the drink you can smell the peppermint and with every sip taste it. The drink was also a warm which fits perfectly with the cold season we are in.

Next time you are out and about definitely pick this drink up for a try.

The second best drink is again from Starbucks. It was a small Caramel Brûlée Latte. This was yet another warm drink that was great for the winter.

It had creamy rich coffee

flavor and was a little frothy. After drinking this you could taste the caramel flavor right away.

A Caramel Brûlée Latte is a definite must have this season before it is gone at the end of the month.

This next drink that was pretty good was the last drink I had from Starbucks. I ordered a small Toasted White Chocolate Latte.

It had a smoky flavor and you could for sure recognize the white chocolate flavor. I recommend this warm drink when you are relaxing at home and watching a Christmas movie.

These next three drinks where from the famous and oh so popular Dutch Bros. Though this place is full of good drinks, their holiday drinks were not all that.

I started off tasting a small Peppermint Bark Mocha. A mocha does have coffee and you could absolutely taste it but the peppermint flavor wasn’t big. There seemed to be a watered down chocolate flavor with a small hint of peppermint at the end.

With the three drinks I had from Dutch this one was my favorite.

Next was the Candy Cane Mocha. This drink was not bad but

did not taste anything like candy canes.

Dutch has a lot of sweet drinks so this didn’t taste any different then a normal drink from there.

Again it had the coffee flavor and had a bit more of a sweet factor.

If you like sweet drinks then you may like it but if you don’t have a sweet tooth this drink may not be for you.

Lastly was the Eggnog Latte.

This was my least favorite drink out of all of them.

It had a little taste of eggnog but was not as huge as I thought the drink would taste like. It was warm but it did not make the drink taste better and the consistency felt thick.

The latte is not something I would order again.

Although I did like the three Starbucks drinks more than the Dutch Bros I still recommend you taste them all for yourself.

Something I did not like can be something you may love. Absolutely try these drinks before they are out of season and see which one gets you hyped up for “the most wonderful time of the year.”

december || 2018

arts and entertainment || 9

phsprecedent.com

Nothing but energy for the two captains Vivian Duong the precedent

The improv team this year has two team captains, both seniors, ambitious to make this year’s improv team the best. “[Improv] helps you with your communication skills and teaches you things like listening to people,” senior and co-captain of the improv team Amanda Federico explains. A very important skill within the real world.

Federico’s early freshmen years did not go so smooth as she would have liked, she “auditioned [for the team] and didn’t get in,” Federico mentions. She than jokes how rigged and trash it was for her to not make the team.

But she continued to act, and eventually brought back the JV improv team this year for those who don’t make it into Varsity at least have a chance to improve.

“I was always the class clown in my classes but I didn’t think I would do anything,” Federico said.

Federico at first, quit gymnastics, eventually falling into a depression for some time, but it was the push that her mother gave her to try improv classes at improvMANIA that go her to eventually stick to improv for several years.

“I ended up becoming captain my junior year and the first to be captain as a junior,” Federico mentions. Due to her background experience, her previous successors thought she would be able to help teach more things to her teammates. To then making a permanent spot as team captain in both her junior and senior years.

“After I graduate I plan on joining a bigger theatre... Perhaps go to Chicago and try some stuff photo by Crista Ramos there,” Federico says. In hopes as A small Justin Grigory Pointing to his Co-Captain. she will continue to pursue theatre

after the years of high school.

“She is basically my sibling and we know each other so well,” senior and co-captain of the improv team Justin Grigory says. As both captains have a bond that makes them work together cohesively.

“I have been in improv since fifth grade and it has helped me a lot with public speaking ability… and not being super secluded mentally,” Grigory said. Despite improv being hard, it is still enjoyable for Justin himself as he talks about doing it.

“I hardly view myself as a captain, it’s simply another team member,” Grigory stresses as improv is not more of leading but more of working together to make sure everything being conveyed makes sense and works.

“I was very secluded and scared in fifth grade and I was able to sort of bloom out of that from public speaking ability,” Grigory comments. As improv helped him gain confidence and work to overcome shyness.

“I have been on the technical side but I have never been in a real, in quote, theatre class,” Grigory indicates. Doing improv is something extracurricular that he has enjoyed in school for a long time. His plan is to go to the University of Arizona and hopes to continue what he enjoys inside and outside of school.

The improv team has a need for balanced captains that “balance each other out perfectly, Amanda is more assertive and Justin is more laid back they still get the job done,” junior Lavender Hubbard mentions. As she is grateful for both captains. It is all one team that will get the work done and maybe showing opportunity to venture out more in that department.

photo by Crista Ramos

A large Amanda Federico pointing to her co-Captain

GAME REVIEW

‘Super Smash Brothers Ultimate’ Top 5 things to get your significant other is amazing, literally the best

this Christmas season

Devin Jernigan the precedent

Super Smash Brothers Ultimate, like everyone*, is here. Now for $60, you can play with 74 of the most famous Nintendo and fighting characters that there are. But is the video game made by Masahiro Sakurai worth it? The short answer is yes.

Smash Ultimate plays with mechanics that are a combination of what was most enjoyed from the other games in the Smash Bros. roster. With the characters from brawl, directional air-dodging and speed of Mele, and supported by graphics even crisper than that of smash 4, Ultimate, in my humble opinion, is the single best and mechanically well balanced of all the Super Smash Brothers games to date.

The first big feature of this game, is the single player campaign.

Ultimate is the second of all 5 of the Smash Bros titles that has a single player campaign. The last being the legendary and fan loved Subspace Emissary. Which without uttering a single word, told the story of a world lost to dark influences, and fighters joining together to defeat a common enemy.

The newest campaign of Ultimate, compares rather nicely to that of Brawl, with a few major changes. Where Brawl Subspace Emissary is an action/story driven campaign, World of Light plays far more as an RPG. Instead of running around and exploring a world while fighting enemies, you run around an over world, and only fight enemies whom you encounter.

Playing similar to a game such as Pokemon, Ultimate allows you to unlock different characters by fighting them. Unlike Pokemon,

Drew Charlet the precedent

It is the time of year where you spend time, and money on friends and family. To show your appreciation and love towards them you give them gifts but naturally you do not want to break the bank. Now there are some people who will say “I don’t want anything,” but you’re obligated to get something for them because all they have done for you. Then there are those people who will give you a list of 100 items they want that will utterly destroy your wallet, so what do you do? If you need any ideas, this is the top 10 list for you.

For The Gals

photo by Damien Tippett

Bowser using his down throw to bodyslam Ness into the Ground.

instead of picking what attacks your characters use, you attack and fight the different characters. The most RPG Esq. element introduced in the game itself is the new use of “spirits”.

Spirits are something you equip to your character and allows you to get added bonuses and features to your character, also being a system that you can play in a special version of smash, it comes as a welcome replacement to custom characters.

The actual gameplay of Ultimate is tighter than ever. With over 70 characters one would suppose that there would be unbalance within the mix, but overall every character seems to have its own strengths and weaknesses.

Simon Belmont, my personal favorite that I have taken too in Ultimate, is a great example of how some characters may seem overpowered, but are actually quite

fair compared to everyone else.

Simon has a huge strength in range, with a whip he measures out to by far have to best mele range of any other character within the cast, except for his echo Richard of course.

Withe this range, Simon would appear to be overpowered or maybe even unfair to fight against, but the range and powerful tipper that is given to Simon is quickly balanced out by his lack of close range options. If you get up close you can easily defeat him, but this is then helped by giving Simon an abundance of spacing options, like his down tilt, as a perfect example of balance.*This is a pun based upon the “Everyone is here” used in the games marketing.

PUMA POINTS

Smartphone Projector- $20 this can be a gender neutral gift, but most of the females whom I have asked said they would like one.

Instant Camera- $50 even though the film can be on the expensive side of things at around $10.00, you can capture those perfect moments and have them instantly print out, very convenient.

Record Player- $30-$70 on the expensive side of presents this would be a really cute decoration that can also play some of the records in their parents’ basements.

Shoes/Clothes- $50-$150 yes, I know that price is really high for shoes but, you can get her shoes from really cute boots, to slide on vans, to some Birkenstocks. No one can have enough shoes! After all year, clothes go out of style and you want your lady friends stay up with the current trends.

Makeup Kit- $45 most girls wake up every morning and put makeup on. But after a while that makeup will run out and what a perfect time to get something that they can use on the daily.

Editors Note: If any yall boys are buying something for your girlfriend, just ask them.

For the Boys

Shoes/Clothes- $75-$175 Like the girls we have clothes and shoes, but the prices will vary based on sizes. But most guys like stuff that will give them an extra bit of clout.

Video Games- $45-$70 After school, guys do their homework, well some more than others, but after they are done they want to relax and play some Call of Duty, Red Dead Redemption 2, Super Smash, and many others.

Electric Razor- $45-$80 Now we are in high school and some guys can grow a beard and it looks good, but be honest looking good with facial hair in high school is few and far between, so that electric razor can really help them to get that quick shave!

Cologne- $45-$100 Every guy wants to smell good, well now at least. Back in Junior High people would dump a bottle of Axe instead of taking a shower and called it good, so to help out that bro during the holiday season, get them a good Cologne.

Gym Membership? - $15 Now you must be wondering why a gym membership would be on here?

Most guys like to be in the best shape as possible and the best way to do it is by a gym membership.

10 || sports

Our Take

on PHX sports Tis the season to be jolly, but for Phoenix sports fans, this holiday season has been more of a Nightmare Before Christmas than Miracle on 34th Street.

After a summer where the Diamondbacks Damien were in first Tippett place until the precedent their abysmal September dropped them from playoff contention, the snakes embraced the “small market” philosophy.

Gone are stars Patrick Corbin and AJ Pollock, as well as the most beloved Phoenix athlete not named Larry Fitzgerald: Paul Goldschmidt.

Speaking of Larry Legend, would someone please tell Steve Wilks No. 11 has not retired yet?

The Cardinals are arguably the worst team in football and seem to look everywhere but the future Hall-of-Famer’s way.

The Coyotes are on the bottom in the Pacific and continue to let close games slip away in a half-full arena.

The Suns are looking to spend $150 million in taxpayer dollars to renovate the Purple Palace, but it is the front office who needs an overhaul. The Suns are 2-10 since Black Friday and the team looks disinterested. The once crownjewel of Arizona sports is going to miss the playoffs again; PHS students couldn’t even tie their shoes the last time Phoenix was in the playoffs.

As a Valley sports fan, it seems as though the Grinch has stolen our teams, and Christmas spirit.

Follow your PUMAS

Pumas playing strong, but haven’t hit full stride

By Makayla Gee the precedent

Leading the men’s team to their first season victory, Coach Jason Berg is shaking up the program and getting down to business. The first time PHS coach is more than qualified for the job, with over 13 years of experience under his belt, and is obviously succeeding at it. In a current 6-2 overall record, many of the returning players are learning how to mature and lead a team from Berg’s style of coaching.

Junior Kayden Burnes has been playing varsity since his freshman year and is finally seeing the team excel.

“They’ve been bringing new energy to our team,” Burnes said, “We’ve all been more committed to this program.”

In addition to challenging his players, Berg is bringing a new, technical tool to help the team: film.

The use of film isn’t a foreign concept to the players, however, Burnes recalls three games last year “that we had recorded down but we never watched them as a team and broke them down.”

The benefits of film are tremendous because of the feedback for the boys. It also allows Berg to show them his point of view to explain to his team what he sees as he is coaching them.

Another strategy that Berg is introducing into the play is possession.

“American ball is a lot like kickball- you get the ball and just bomb it every time instead of possessing and strategically move the ball around the team,” Burnes said.

Senior Cole Stewart is a witness to the outcomes of this up and coming way of playing: “The possession style of the game is

the precedent

Sports Notebook It has been an exciting start to

Brock Purdy’s collegiate football career, where the 2018 Perry grad was recently named ESPN’s Big 12 True Freshman of the Year.

Since taking over Iowa State’s quarterbacking duties on Oct. 6, Purdy ranked sixth in the nation in passer rating and accounted for 19 total touchdowns and 1,935 yards passing in only eight games.

Purdy re-wrote the Cyclone freshman record book, setting new marks for passing yards and touchdowns (16), and is currently second in completions (128).

No. 24 ISU will take on No. 13 Washington State in the Alamo Bowl on Dec. 28 on ESPN.

Current Team

photo by Makayla Gee Junior Kyle Brereton dribbles the ball down the line in the Coyote Classic tournament at Campo Verde high school.

different for high school because the fields are so much smaller... so playing a possession style game is something most high schools don’t do but we’re trying to do something different and create a new system.”

At the start of the season, Berg’s goal was to create and mature his players in better ways as people and as athletes. His new implements in practices and game plays are evidently taking effect.

“We still have a lot to work,” Berg said, “We need to be mentally possessive of it more and we need to take care of possession more.”

On the technical side of the game, factors of play such as switching and ball control are areas

Berg sees the group growing in.

“We have space is wide, the switch is on. Especially with three defenders, they play a three-fourthree, and everyone had shifted over and we had space to switch, we got to switch it over sooner,” Berg said.

As the team learns to grow together, Berg is able to use his experience to lead his players to more and more victories than the program has ever seen. Recent success is helping fuel the Puma’s drive for a state title, and keeps their energy up, as well as the team’s morale.

Going forward in the season, Berg is continuously raising the bar for all his athletes. The program has

always been solid in its records as a whole, but Coach Berg is bringing radical change to the game and the style in high school soccer.

He is trying to make the team’s possession abilities more advanced, this style is more professional and will make the game easier for the players. So far this style change has earned them six wins overall, with only two losses.

The team is on the rise and looking to go father than any other in Puma history. Adding new aspects and skills to the sport of high school soccer, they are hoping to leave their mark on the Perry soccer program, and high school soccer as a whole.

Roberts: Pumas have opportunity to “leave their mark”

By Holly Olszak

Add PHS sports on Twitter Athletics: @perry_pumas Girl’s Basketball: @LPumaBasketball Boy’s Basketball: @PerryPumaMBB Girl’s Soccer: @Perrygsoccer Boy’s Soccer: @PumasBoysSoccer

december || 2018

the precedent || phsprecedent.com

Throughout the years, the varsity girls’ soccer team has had its fair-share of struggles. This previous season was a hit, with a numerous amount of seniors taking the team to a second place win during state.

However, this season has a large group of younger players. This may have an effect on the team because of their inexperience when it comes to being on a varsity team.

When asked about the team’s weaknesses, coach Roberts stated, “They haven’t played a lot together and not many players have varsity experience.”

Junior varsity player, Brenna Alderson, began playing for Perry during her freshman year. So far this season she has a total of 7 goals, 1 per game.

“My teammates are always encouraging and pushing each other to be better,” stated Alderson, she continued, “Expectations for the new season would be to play our best and hopefully win state.”

When asked about what she thinks her team excels at, Alderson

Schedules

stated, “I think we all work really well together and have fun while working hard.” She also mentioned that the team needs to “work on scoring more consistently.”

This season’s team features some new and younger players. Mikella Reed, a sophomore on varsity, has a total of 3 goals, 5 assists, and 4 goals per game so far.

Other sophomore players include Courtney Fernau, with 1 goal and 3 assists, and Joey Lujan, with 1 goal and 4 assists.

The varsity team consists of mostly seniors and juniors, but features some sophomores. These younger and less experienced players may seem concerning, however, they could end up benefiting the team and become amazing assets for this new season, as well as future seasons.

Adding experience on a varsity team at such a young age will help the girls gain experience in the game.

“Last year’s team was unbelievable, but that was last year,” stated Coach Roberts. “This year’s team has an opportunity to leave

G. Soccer

photo by Annie Brown

Courtney Fernau and Natalie Conati compete in a 1 v. 1 at practice.

their mark on Perry soccer. They control their own destiny.”

They are working on reaching their main goal as a team: winning state, one game at a time. The team puts in hard work during the week at practice, and on the field at games and hopes that all will pay off in the end when it comes down

B. Soccer

G. Bball

to the final few games and the state championship.

With the title just in their grasp last season and a disappointing defeat at the final game against Xavier Prep high school, the new team is hoping to avenge their name and take the program to a well deserved state win.

B. Bball

1/8 v. Skyline 6pm

12/19 @ Red Mtn. 7pm

1/8 v. Xavier 7pm

12/21 @ Basha 7pm

1/11 @ Tolleson 6pm

1/8 @ Skyline 6pm

1/11 @ Buena 6:30pm

1/8 @ Brophy 7pm

1/15 @ O’Connor 6pm

1/11 v. Tolleson 6pm

1/12 @ Flinttidge Prep 12:30pm 1/11 v. Hamilton

1/18 v. Hamilton 6 pm

1/15 v. O’Conner 6pm

1/17 @Hamilton 7pm

1/17 v. Mtn. View 7pm

1/22 v. Chandler 6pm

1/18 @ Hamilton 6pm

1/18 v. Chandler 7pm

1/18 @ Chandler

1/25 @ Basha 6pm

1/22 @Chandler 6pm

1/22 @ Basha 7pm

1/22 v. Basha 7pm

sports || 11

the precedent || phsprecedent.com

december || 2018

Pumas’ work in weight room shows early results Basketball

finding its groove before rivalry game

By Grant Sands the precedent

photo by Ryan Leightner Sophomore point guard Grace Oken battles for a loose ball against Basha on Nov. 29. Oken tracked the ball down and the Pumas toppled the Bears, 68-31.

Part of the Pumas’ success this season has been the way they have prepared in the weight room in the off-season; as of press time PHS was 6-0.

By Anna Myers the precedent

W

ith a 6-0 record, the Pumas have out-scored, outrebounded, and simply knocked out its competition so far this season.

Offensively, PHS is scoring nearly 60 points per game and allowing only 29 ppg. The talent on the floor is evident to everyone in the stands, but this killer-instinct they seem to be playing with has been honed somewhere else.

Perry supports an intense weight training routine intent on making it to the state championship this year.

With six returning players this year, and so much youth on its roster – five sophomores – the team is working on building up strength and endurance, as well as improving their defense.

Third-year head coach Andrew Curtis and athletic strength and conditioning

coach Joelyn Boone supervise the weight room while the team lifts each day.

“They went a little heavier as they were getting up to the season,” Boone said, and has had “a lot of fitness...added in.”

The team’s heavy lifting and agility has produced improvements already.

Sophomore guard Tatyanna Clayburne said: “Since the beginning of last year we’ve just gotten stronger and faster.”

Strength is an important factor, especially for the girls’ team. “The strength as it relates to the game… for females it really gives them the edge,” Boone explained.

One player’s strength stood out. Senior forward Simone Simmons can power clean 150-pounds.

“Simmons is very strong; she’s worked really hard in the weight room all four years here,” Boone said. As a senior, Simmons outlined her personal goals for the season.

“Definitely focus on my defensive end,” she said, “offense will come as defense is.”

The team’s strength is a factor not only to their performance in games, but practices are impacted as well. Clayburne said that “[the team’s strength] translates to the gym with our ability to finish more and to push each other.”

Despite the Pumas’ drive in the weight room, they have to balance pushing themselves and having fresh legs for competition. Boone noted that they need to keep lifting throughout the season – that it helps with energy for games and practices.

The team has backed off into a more strength maintenance mind-set to achieve their goals.

And what exactly are their goals? When asked, both Clayburne and sophomore guard Madison Conner replied enthusiastically at the same time: “State!”

photo by Crista Ramos Senior forward Simmone Simmons works on bent-over rows in the weight room.

“This team is playoffbound,” Boone commented.

“The girls get strong, they’re fit, they have really respectable strength.”

Simmons finished off with a similar response. “We’re gonna win state, so, mark my words!”

Up next for the Pumas is their annual trip to the Nike Tournament of Champions Dec. 19-22.

STRENGTH

in numbers PERRY OPPNT 58.2 PPG 29.8 30 RPG 18.7* 19.4 STL 4* 3.4 BLK 3* 12.8 F 8.3* 13.4 APG 4.3* *indicates only 3 opponents have entered stats to MaxPreps

The Battle of Val Vista will hit the hardwood as the Puma’s boys basketball team will take on Basha High Dec. 21 in a pivotal matchup heading into the playoffs.

“It’s a big region game, it’s a big rivalry game,” head coach Sam Duane said. “We got to come in ready to compete. It’s going to be a tough game, it’s going to be a great atmosphere.”

The Duane atmosphere at Basha will be electric as is typical in a rivalry game.

“In those types of games you want to control your composure,” he elaborates, “You want to stay composed with everything that is going on and focus on what you need to do.”

In a high energy game, staying in control will be key for the Pumas as they head into a hostile environment at Basha.

In last years contests, Perry took down the Bears by scores of 55-34 and 69-46, but Duane warned that this is a new year and new teams.

“They have a lot of change in their team and we have a lot of change as well.”

In the Bears state championship run in 2017, the Pumas were the only team to hand them a loss.

“The previous matches are always intense. It’s a rival game,” Duane said.

The Pumas lead the all-time series against their rivals down Val Vista 7 games to 6.

This game will not only feature two fixtures in the playoff picture, but the rivals will also team up for annual Team Emery bear toss: an event where fans will toss stuffed animals on the court to be donated to local children’s hospitals.

The Pumas will head into the game with their sights set on the playoffs. Boasting a record of 8-4, the Pumas seem to have set themselves up well for the playoffs as they look to capture the programs first state title.

After opening up the season at 2-2, PHS seems to have found their stride as they strung together a four game winning streak. Wins over Mesa, Desert Ridge, Corona del Sol as well as a 23-point victory over North High School pushed the team to 6-2.

Unified program gaining momentum

By Kenna Cassey the precedent

If everyone lived unified people can be unstoppable. The unified soccer team has not lost a game yet this season.

Seniors, Cooper Harris, David Reese, and Fletcher Jones may be spending their last year with the team but they plan on leading the group through the season.

On the night of December 5, the bright stadium lights illuminated the field for the game.

The Pumas step onto the grass ready to play.

Little did Coach Escalante know that when Cooper Harris stepped onto the field he would take over

the role of unified partner, not only as a player.

“With his experience as football team manager, he brings things that coach Jones teaches, to our unified team,” partner Anna Myers said.

Instead of scoring every goal all by himself, Harris would pass the ball to his teammates so that they had a chance to score. This sense of including all the other players into the game is a skill he learned from seeing the football team work together.

Harris wanted his other teammates to feel the same glory and excitement after a goal that he gets to experience every game. The goal scorers were not the typical

players that get the ball into the back of the net.

But even if they didn’t end up scoring they all did spectacular, whether it was on offense or defense.

The Pumas ended up winning the game 8-4 against the Casteel Colts.

The unified sports program may seem like something that is small, but it gives students who may not seem like your average athletes the chance to experience what it is like to play for a high school sports team. It gives them the chance to experience the great triumphs and losses of high school sports.

photo by Annie Brown Junior Adam Baumgarth scores a goal in the Unified soccer game against Casteel High School on Dec. 5.

12 || sports

december || 2018

the precedent || phsprecedent.com

FOOTBALL

Pumas finish another impressive season

By Aubree Flores the precedent

photo By Madison Marsanico

Senior D’Shayne James shakes hands with the Wolves captains at the state game that took place at Sun Devil stadium. James was allowed to wear a uniform and participate in the final coin toss of his high school football career after being injured for the season.

After season ending injury, D’Shayne James is going strong at rehab

By Kenna Cassey the precedent

Football camp had just wrapped up and the Pumas – fresh off of their 2017 state title run – were back at it preparing for a zero-week matchup against Pinnacle.

Wide-receiver D’Shayne James was about to enter his senior season as one of the most electric threats in the country. The Iowa State commit tore up opposing defenses last season, gathering 1,086 receiving yards tallying 15 touchdowns.

But on the afternoon of July 26 something went wrong.

“We were just doing a routine drill in the last five minutes of practice, they said hut, I took the ball, faked it and ran up the middle,” James explained. “I did a

normal step, a normal cut and all of a sudden my knee just flew out the left side.”

In an instant the senior wide receiver’s career at Perry was over.

He damaged his ACL, MCL, IT band, and his LCL, which cost him his senior season.

At first James felt confused. He did not know what had happened; all he knew was that something went terribly wrong.

“It was a pressure-type feeling; it was like trying to bend a ruler,” he said. He was completely dazed at the fact that this season had ended before it even started. After he collapsed on the field he had no idea what was going on. “I didn’t know what had happened. All my teammates were just telling me how bad it looked.”

Head coach Preston Jones

explained “When he got injured we had to adjust everything we were going to do. It affected our depth and our receiver positions.”

Since his injury, he has gone from player to mentor.

He has encouraged many young Pumas. Acknowledging that he has been a “leader on the team and stuck to that role and tried to keep the guys confident.”

He has kept the spirits up on the team through the battle to state from the sidelines, keeping the team going when no one wanted to practice in the summer heat or when they were in a difficult situation in a game.

“I was just there and did what I could to help out,” James said. After the injury, James had months of physical therapy to go through before even thinking

about playing football.

“It was one of the worst injuries I had seen in my entire career,” trainer Rebecca Goetz said. His hard work at rehab helped him rehabilitate himself before the start of the college season. “It was also one of the best recoveries I had ever seen,” Goetz added.

But he was more motivated than ever. His future was will not put on pause due to his injury.

James has a full-ride scholarship for football to Iowa State University where he will be joining his former Perry teammate, quarterback Brock Purdy.

“I am pumped. I can’t wait to get back on my feet and play with my former quarterback and help Iowa State achieve their ultimate goal of a Big 12 championship.”

Underclassmen look to top veteran athletes

By Macie Miller the precedent

BOYS: As the wrestlers settle into another season, the team is filled with fresh faces and young athletes looking to top veteran wrestlers in their weight classes.

One particular athlete that has caught Johnson’s eye is Ikaika Maldonado. Maldonado has been wrestling at Perry since his freshman year back in 2016. The junior wrestler is a new coming varsity player and will hopefully bring fresh techniques and dedication to the team.

At the Puma Duals that took place on Fri and Sat. Dec. 7 and 8, Travis Calloway, had an opponent forfeit the match on Friday. Calloway wrestles in the 195-220 weight class, and has been a key component for the varsity team since he first stepped on the mats back in 2015.

Joseph Abeita, another veteran wrestler for the Pumas showcased his high skill level at the meet,

demolishing his first opponent to contribute to the team’s point count. Abeita has been wrestling for the Pumas since his freshman season back in 2015 and will make this his fourth consecutive year with varsity.

The team has gone 15-4 so far this season and still has key matches coming up, as well as the state qualifiers. Johnson thinks that there will be a handful of wrestlers this year that are good contenders for state this season.

“We have a lot of sophomores and even freshman who are coming in that are hungry to prove what they can do and that want to be on varsity,” Johnson said. New wrestlers have stepped up to the plate, and the team is looking strong for the season.

GIRLS: Many times, fans of the wrestling team tend to forget that there are girls who wrestle for the team as well, who do not get the same well deserved recognition as their male teammates. For the

photo by Macie Miller

Senior Joe Abeita wrestling against Combs HS at the Puma Duals.

first time in school history, female wrestler Mariah Gramza won first place at The Lady Quest for the Crown tournament.

It can be a challenge for girls in the sport, especially in high school because there is a lot of doubt that comes from coaches as well as

fellow teammates. Gramza is the first to win first place for the girl’s team at Perry.

Although the team just consists of her and one other girl, they are hoping more will find the courage to test the waters in the unique sport.

Day in and day out, the football team trained for months in advance to prepare for the final showdown of the Perry Pumas and Chandler Wolves, keeping revenge for last year’s state game in their minds and hearts. Yet it was not enough to overthrow the Wolves’ dynasty. The game ended in a 65-28 loss for Perry.

Junior quarterback Chubba Purdy was sacked four times in the first half; the Chandler brick wall continually halted him from gaining yards up the field like he had in previous playoff games.

However, throughout the game, Purdy offered the Pumas’ rays of hope, eventually running 81 yards down the sidelines, leading up to a TD pass to senior Colby Dickie. The Wolves, led

by Decarlos Brooks, were simply too good. The Pumas struggled to challenge the seemingly superhero team.

Despite the final loss, the 2018 season is proof of the enormous amount of love the student body and faculty is capable of giving, supporting the football team through thick and thin.

The squad suffered defeat in the regular season but then as all good teams do, found a way to win and pulled themselves out of the gutter, going 11-3 and making it to the state championship as a sixth seed.

During the season, the team faced mounting oppositions, including losing senior D’Shayne James to an ACL tear at the start of the season.

Chubba Purdy revealed that injuries were not the only challenges the team faced during the entire season, “As a team, we had a lot of young guys this year. We’re going to have to focus on working as a team a little bit better and not being so focused on each other, well not being so focused on yourself.”

Looking to the future, the Pumas have work to do if they want to succeed at the highest level of high school football in the state.

Losing key players like Colby Dickie, Travis Calloway, Brayden Rohme, D’Shayne James, Jalen Young, and Clayton Schmitz among others will undoubtedly hurt the Pumas next season, however current juniors are preparing to fill the roles they will leave. And have been warming up to the varsity style and pace of the game this year.

Head coach Preston Jones named Peyton Hill, Cole Sabetta, Jackson Ford, Ky Lockhart, Jordin Young, Chubba Purdy, Hunter Scott, Broc Lane, Aaron Henry, and Tracy Franklin as just a few of the players ready to make an impact on next year’s season.

Even as the school has grown and players have gotten better, the goals for the football team have remained the same since the day Perry opened 12 years ago: “play to [their] full potential, become overachievers as individuals, and get better every week,” said Preston Jones.