FALL PLAY
“A Christmas Carol” has a successful run.
OPINION, Page 2
THE 3 E’s
SPORTS CAPSULES
Seniors head into finals with graduation as the ultimate goal.
SPOTLIGHT Page 3
Check out how the winter sports started their seasons.
SPORTS, Page 8
THE PEPPER BOX RITENOUR HIGH SCHOOL
ISSUE 4, VOLUME 44
9100 ST. CHARLES ROCK ROAD, ST. LOUIS, MO 63114
DECEMBER, 2017
Teen drug use declines, but factors still influence those at risk Drug and alcohol awareness classes and the recent deaths of celebrities lead to drug abuse decline in teens By LILA IRBY Pepperbox Staff Drug abuse is defined as a perpetual use of mind altering substances. Currently, the United States is subject to a steady incline in drug abuse. Paramount to this is the opioid epidemic that contributes to the increase. In October, St. Louis County was given one million dollars in grants in order to take action against it. Often, drug abuse results in addiction. In some cases, it can spiral into overdose, which, in consequence, may be fatal. According to a study in a CNN article, “This is America on Drugs,” nearly sixty-one percent of overdoses lead to death. American teens have been systemically warned of the negative impact drug usage can have on one’s life. In elementary school, D.A.R.E., a widely known acronym for Drug Abuse Resistance Education, teaches young students about the dangers of drug use, warding them from the pressures of peers. In middle school, the subject of drug abuse is delved into. Students are given classifications of drugs, as well as an elaborate list of symptoms, and the effect that stimulants and depressants can have on the brain from a cellular standpoint. Despite the increase in drug use in the US, drug abuse in teens has been at a decline over the past few years. Tested in every two years of high school students, the National Institute on Drug Abuse determined
that 9.8 percent of 10th graders exhibited usage of drugs, excluding the use of marijuana. The same study determined that 14.3 percent of 12th graders used such. Compared to numbers of previous years, the results have dwindled nearly 9 percent. The general consensus is that, while numbers rise for the majority of the US, teen drug use is at an all-time low. However, the remaining 9.8 and 14.3 percent of students are still at risk. The use of drugs in school can limit the academic drive of students by altering their attention span, mood, and focus, and therefore, their options after the graduation. Often, the abuse of drugs strains cognitive function, which can cause grades to plummet. Angela Lane, Forensics teacher at RHS, said that, often, drug use in students is caused by trauma, and may be used as a coping mechanism. “Some of the kids that you see that are just not saying anything could be using something that they did before school because they just don’t want anyone to know what’s happening at home,” Lane said. Lane also commented of the effect of drug usage in an educational setting. “[There is] a lack of focus when they’re doing their education. Some of them think they can handle it, and that makes them able to focus more, when actually they’re being a lot slower and not getting things done, and missing things,” Lane said. Some studies indicate that students may be learning
Created on Wordart.com such behaviors through the entertainment they consume. A study by PMC yielded results that suggest that listening to rap music was “significantly and positively associated with alcohol use, problematic alcohol use, [and] illicit drug use.” In August, a rap artist, Lil Peep, overdosed on the prescription anti-anxiety medication, Xanax. This is just one instance of overdose in the entertainment industry, where reports of drug abuse are a highly normalized occurrence. Counselor at Ritenour, and former educator with the NCADA (National Council on Alcohol and Drug Abuse), Dina Durnin, commented on
Pipeline leak in South Dakota causes outrage By HANNAH CORNISH Pepperbox Staff The plight of the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe sent the media into a frenzy, as Standing Rock and its supporters held continuous protests that lasted from April of 2016 to February of 2017 against an oil pipeline that would be built through their land. Despite all the fighting against it, the pipelines were still constructed. The Standing Rock nation’s worst fears were confirmed, when on November 16, the Keystone Pipeline leaked 210,000 gallons of oil into a field in South Dakota. Oil pipelines that traverse
through the Midwest have been a subject of controversy since their beginning stages. Most of the world might not have heard of the pipelines if there had not been so much protest against them. Pepper spray, bite dogs and rubber bullets were some of the methods used by authorities to “control” these protests. Ritenour Social Studies teacher, Catherine Lampshire spoke of her views on how the government handled the protests. “Violence begets violence. Those seeking change must not act with violence but must be willing to suffer it for their cause,” Lampshire said. Although the pipeline that caused so much controversy was compromised, the leak
did not make its way into any water system. However, that does not reduce its severity and potential to be harmful. The leak could very well cause groundwater contamination. TransCanada, a North American energy company responded to the leak the day of its occurrence. A company statement read “the safety of the public and environment are our top priorities and we will continue to provide updates as they become available.” Ritenour social studies teacher Alexander Terrance, a member of the Mohawk tribe, spoke of his views on the pipelines, its effects, and the business involved with it. SEE PIPELINE LEAK- 3
the impact of drug abuse in the entertainment industry, and how this issue affects students. “I think that entertainment, especially music, impacts the way teens view drug abuse. There are very few song lyrics today that do not have words that refer to substance use and abuse. Society accepts these lyrics by purchasing the songs and this leads to glamorizing substance use and abuse,” Durnin said. Durnin also spoke about the exemplification of drug abuse by celebrities. “Also, the reports of so and so celebrity just went to rehab or is returning from rehab also glamorizes substance use
and abuse because often times teens look to celebrities as idols and they strive to be like them. In reality, they don’t see the damage that it has done not only to them physically and mentally, but how it impacts the people around them,” Durnin said. The results of which, she believed were detrimental. “The other consequences that can occur are addiction, jail, broken relationships, job loss, and poverty. Each of those are complex and have various levels of consequences depending upon the drug of choice and the individual’s life choices,” Durnin said.
INDEX
NEWS..............Front Page OPINION................Page 2 NEWS.....................Page 3 SPOTLIGHT...........Page 4 SPOTLIGHT...........Page 5 SPOTLIGHT...........Page 6
Check out information from this issue, as well as additional content from the Pepper Box and KRHS on ritenourlive.org
SPORTS..................Page 7 SPORTS...................Page 8
Opinion
PEPPER BOX STAFF Adviser: Ron Steinschriber Content Editor In Chief: Jenna Hutson Production Editor In Chief: Bailey Stock News Editor: Martin Trujillo Opinion Editor: Jordyn Barber Online Editor: Shelby Langhorst Sports Editor: Coralis Bobe Spotlight Editor: Victoria Taylor Staff Members: Trystan Bell, Allison Both, Pierre Brown, Hannah Cornish, Alexandria Eyster, Marquis Gladden, Grace Humphres, Lila Irby, Tabitha Peebles, Dori Sloan, Madison Waldrup Editorial Policy: The Pepper Box is designed and created by members of the newspaper staff of Ritenour High School. The purpose of the newspaper is to provide a forum for the students to focus on issues, give opinions, and share information with the Ritenour High School community. The opinions expressed in this paper do not reflect opinions of our faculty or administration. Letters to the editor are welcome and accepted, but they may not contain profanity, obscenity, or anything inappropriate to school. They may be e-mailed to Ron Steinschriber at steinschriberr@ritenourschools.org, or dropped off in room 240. The staff reserves the right to edit these letters.
Sexualization in media needs to stop
Page 2 December 2017 Opinion Editor: Jordyn Barber: Barberj801@ritenourschools.org
Staff Editorial It is that time of the year again. The month of the most beloved holidays and the most hated part of being in school; finals. Every year, high school students and college students spend hours and hours of studying to prepare for such a stressful week. The real question is: Are finals really that important to the educational process? Throughout the entire semester, students learn certain material in units and are tested on their knowledge and comprehension of those topics individually. Once they get to the end of the semester, finals are used to test over all of the things they have cumulatively learned. A test is something that generally does not settle well
The Barber Shop
By Jordyn Barber
As a society, we tend to hypersexualize those around us. The Euro-centric beauty standards alone are an issue, but the ideal image of beauty for both men and women is an underlying problem in society. Our ideal image of beauty for a person is that they are white, with long legs, toned abs, big styled hair and are showing cleavage or shirtless. The hypersexualization in society has lead to people sexualizing children as young as 13 year olds. There are magazines calling Millie Bobby Brown, the 13 year old female actress in Stranger Things, sexy. She is a child, no younger than half of your brothers and sisters, and yet the media thinks that this was okay to publish. Sexualization of a child on any form is not okay to publish. They are innocent people who aren’t mentally mature enough to know what that means. They lack the maturity to understand what it means, and they are below the legal age of consent as well, which does not make the scenario any better. The adult models shown on magazines like Vogue do not have it any better, as they are being exploited and used for money. We live in a society where the more revealing these women are, the more popular they are and the more money they will make. Young girls look up to these women who are being exploited, and these young ones are so impressionable and they think that in order to be popular they need to look like them. This is a bad ideal to young teens and tweens when they are in the stage of getting comfortable in their own skin.
The music surrounding us also perpetuates this culture. Most songs nowadays mention acts of sex and a portrayal of female anatomy. You see this common theme in songs like “Shape of You” by Ed Sheeran, “Anaconda” by Nicki Minaj, and “Bedrock” by Young Money. While the titles are not explicit, the content is, and songs like these are so catchy that people do not always realize the explicit lyrics they are singing. These songs portray women as objects and the artists singing and or rapping them are explaining what they want to do to women. This just further enforces the ideal that it’s okay to exploit women for publicity, fame, and money. While some may agree that sexualization in the media is a prevalent issue, it is still an acceptable activity due to freedom of speech. Women consent to this content being put out and are aware of the consequences, as they are often the ones who are purchasing the magazines or reading the articles. These women are aware that they are exploiting their bodies for fame, popularity and money. Others may argue that this sexualization isn’t exploitative, but appreciative. These women are posing like this on these covers so that their body will be appreciated. While women may have the freedom of speech, it still encourages this self destructive culture. I want to see less sexualization because it leads to many self image issues and exploits women for their bodies.
time to apply the skills they have learned and create a masterpiece of everything they were taught. Using practical skills instead of memorization skills would also help the students who struggle with test-day anxiety find peace at the end of the semester. An additional advantage to doing final projects is the positive impact it would have on some students grades. If students are given the opportunity to complete a project in lieu of an exam, then students would be able to accurately show their understanding of the material. Finals are more than a test of memorization, they’re a test of knowledge.
Christmas is not the only winter holiday
The Yellow Brick Road
By Dorothy Sloan
in a person due to all of the pressure it has on one’s grade or successfulness. In order to prevent the excessive worry students have about finals, teachers should incorporate final projects to sum up all of the information given instead of a final exam. Although some teachers have already chosen to make this step forward, the majority still relies on tests to conclude their class before winter break. Exchanging final tests with final projects would most likely tremendously lighten the mood for the most dreaded week of the year. Rather than repeatedly trying to memorize certain facts or ideas, having a project would be beneficial because it would give the students
‘Tis the seasons readers. The season where I hide out until January. You see, Hanukkah is quickly approaching, and I feel as if no one is aware because they don’t ask. It’s supposed to be the time to spread joy and “come together,” yet I have been overlooked and isolated. So since I’ve gone unacknowledged, I’ll tell you myself the importance of this time for a black Jew. “You’re a Jew? But you’re black…” How do I even reply to such a question that disregards my beliefs simply because of my skin color? Well, all I can do is attempt to educate seeing as this is a phrase I’ve heard since I started high school and still hear as a senior. So yes, I am a Jew with dark skin and yes, I do
celebrate Hanukkah and other High Holy Days mentioned throughout the Bible. No, I am not ashamed. Skin color and race do not define whether one is a Jew, it is heritage and nationality. There are Jews scattered throughout and outside of the country. Hanukkah is an important part of my life, not only because of the joy and gladness I am required to maintain throughout the eight days, but also because of its history. Years ago, in the month of December, the temple of the Jews was violated and overtaken by a ruler named Antiochus. The Jews had sinned against the God of Israel and forgotten Him so His protection left them. So first, Antiochus attacked the Jews in Egypt and then after seeing he had power, took war against Jerusalem. Antiochus then forced the Jews to follow his ways of worshipping idols and eating swine. If they did not do these things, they were tortured and murdered in terrible ways; men, women, and children were also victims to Antiochus and his army. The celebration of Hanukkah comes, however,
on the 25th day of December, where two years prior, the altar of the Jews had been defiled and torn down. This day is when the God of Israel showed His might through the redemption of the Israelites through war as well as the rededication of the temple. We celebrate and give thanks to God for bringing our nation back stronger than before and having us to worship Him again without shame or fear. Hanukkah is not just a time to receive gifts or a time to indulge in feasts. Of course, those are appreciated but the time is for reflection and true thanksgiving. I am a black Jew. I know what I stand for and I am a representative of those who are rarely heard of and fear speaking as those did during the time of Antiochus. We deserve to be heard and appreciated. The hall sweeps should be more than just Mariah Carey’s vocals singing about Christmas because that is something I do not believe in. Acknowledge Hanukkah. Acknowledge black Jews, no matter how unpopular it is. Acknowledge me.
“Christmas Carol” is a success
By MARTIN TRUJILLO News Editor “A Christmas Carol” is a timeless story about Ebenezer Scrooge (played by Janessa Brewer), a bitter greedy old man, and his journey through various Christmases throughout time. After witnessing suffering, hatred, and the death of a child, Scrooge learns to adapt his way of life, so that his despicable actions will not be the death of him. While there were not a lot of set pieces for the play, the few that were created were meticulously chosen to make the scene feel whole. The mobile set pieces were swiftly moved in and out of the stage by the running crew, which allowed the show to move from scene to scene smoothly. The costumes worked seamlessly with the set to create the atmosphere needed to make it feel as if the actors were actually performing in the 19th century. The use of children in the show created a more lively experience. Children
bring life to a play in a way that teenagers that play children cannot. Director Gregory Jones revealed that the children have more energy, which he said can be a blessing or a curse. Jones managed to channel this energy to create a warm environment on the stage that transferred to the audience. Evan Monzyk, son of English teacher Melissa Monzyk, portrayed a young orphan in the play. He shined with the help of his singing. Monzyk’s character appeared several time throughout the play, and through his appearances the audience could see Scrooge’s development.
Brewer blew the audience away with her powerful performance. The emotion she portrayed made it seem like she was not just playing Scrooge, but rather she was Scrooge. Freshman Tyra Smith, The Ghost of Christmas Present, presented the audience with a likable, sassy ghost. The contrast between Smith and Brewer’s characters complimented both their characters and added humor. The play concluded with snow coming down on the audience. This finishing touch allowed the audience to leave the Ritenour Auditorium with winter joy. Seniors J’von Halbert and Janessa Brewer perform in the play “A Christmas Carol.”
Martin Trujillo
News
Page 3 December 2017 News Editor: Martin Trujillo: trujillocarrazco164@ritenourschools.org
PIPELINE LEAK Continued from the front page “I think the leak is abhorrent. It’s exactly what the Native Americans of the Standing Rock Reservation were arguing against in the first place. If this happened in St. Louis or a surrounding community, people would be outraged,” Terrance said. Terrance commented further about how industries like these work and why they are so adamant on using such outdated technology to provide energy for America. “The issue is that natural resources, like oil, are not renewable and therefore, only a finite amount exists on the planet. As more and more companies invest in renewable energy sources, we weaken our dependence on fossil fuels,” Terrance said. “This transition is easy for individuals, but very expensive for corporations, so it may require government
regulation to force more companies to invest in renewable energy sources.” Senior Erik Richardson also discussed his opinion on the pipeline’s construction and his knowledge of the oil industry. “Renewable energy is too expensive for the average needs of a lower to middle class person. These energy companies will continue to ruin the environment in order to make money, and until renewable energy is more affordable than fossil fuel the pipeline will continue to ruin the environment it resides in,” Richardson said. Expenses are a large part of the company’s refusal to change. Keystone plans for a sister project to the Keystone Pipeline was approved in March of this year, which only enhances the risk of leaks and contamination to
the natives, their lands, and the environment. “We’ve seen this debate play out around the world for over 150 years. The answer is that we need government to step in and advocate for people and our well-being, but there has to be a balance,” Terrance said.
Pax Ahimsa Gethen on Wikimedia Commons Protesters against the Dakota Access Pipeline and Keystone XL Pipeline hold a sit-in in the street next to the San Francisco Federal Building.
SEMO president visits staff and students Dr. Carlos Vargas-Aburto came to Ritenour as part of a tour of local high schools. On his visit he spoke to staff and students about his experiences as a first generation college student and surprised an RHS senior with an acceptance letter. By MARTIN TRUJILLO News Editor On Friday, Dec. 1, Southeast Missouri State University (SEMO) representatives and staff came to Ritenour High School to talk to students, and among these visitors was president of SEMO, Carlos Vargas-Aburto. Dr. Vargas is a Hispanic first-generation college student. He talked to RHS seniors who have already been accepted into SEMO about his humble beginnings. “I grew up very modest-my family didn’t have any resources. Some of your families may even have more than what we had. We didn’t even own a house,” Dr. Vargas said. Despite all this, Dr. Vargas was able to graduate at the National Autonomous University of Mexico with a Bachelor of Science in physics. After that, he went to the University of Michigan to receive his Master of Science and Ph.D. in physics and aerospace. He then talked about his
concern for students who are also first-generation college students and the worries that their parents have. Dr. Vargas explained how SEMO attempts to help students and parents through applying for colleges. “The process for choosing colleges has become more complex. One of the things we are trying to do is to interact more with parents and to help them understand what is going on. We are aware of the fact that the parents find this an overwhelming process. I advise students to relax and ask for help for their parents,” Dr. Vargas said. In addition to staff and faculty, Dulce Maldonado Muños, a first-generation student at SEMO, also came to RHS. She explained her experience with explaining college to her parents. (This interview was conducted in Spanish and translated). “My parents knew absolutely nothing, other than that I wanted to go to a university. Mamá said, ‘You are the one that knows English, so you are the one
Martin Trujillo Senior Cassidy Schatz receives her admission letter directly from Dr. Carlos Varga, president of SEMO. Vargas came to the high school to speak to staff and students about his experiences leading up to his position at the university. that has to get information.’ Many of us have to be the person in the middle and have to translate for our parents. I had to explain that I had to live on campus. She asked, ‘Why does my child have to live on campus?’ I explained that I know that she loves and cares for me, but this experience allowed me to
become more independent. Mamá will always be my mother, but I also have to be my own independent person,” Muños said The SEMO representatives ended their visit to RHS with a surprise. Dr. Vargas personally delivered Senior Cassidy Schatz’s acceptance letter, a SEMO shirt, and then
gave her his SEMO shades. Before leaving, Dr. Vargas gave his concluding remarks. “My father used to say, ‘no vengo a ver si puedo sino porque puedo vengo:’ When you want to do something you don’t just say ‘I’m gonna to try.’ Instead, you do it, and there is nothing that you cannot do,” Dr. Vargas said.
Warehouse ignites in Central West End A warehouse fire in the city effects employees, patients, and visitors of Cardinal Glennon Hospital By TRYSTAN BELL The Pepper Box Staff A warehouse in St. Louis county near 39th Street and Park Avenue had a fire break out on Wednesday, November 15, causing massive health risks in the Central West End area of St. Louis. The Park Warehouse Service at 3937 Park is right near the Cardinal Glennon Children’s Hospital, therefore the smoke and flames were a big issue, concerning the children’s health and safety. Senior Sophie Zgiet, who was visiting Cardinal Glennon at the time to see a friend, smelled smoke ten minutes away from the hospital. “It was like a burning sensation in my nose. When I went to park my car, the
officers at the hospital immediately gave me a face mask and told me to not breathe in the air because it was considered a haz=mat situation and very dangerous to our bodies. The entire hospital smelled like smoke, even the nurses were wearing masks, and the automatic doors were locked and had to be manually open when entering or leaving, so no more smoke would get in.” Zgiet said. The fire was started in the basement of the warehouse, which was discovered to be started by faulty electrical wiring. Reports from a worker inside report that smoke poured from electrical outlets, and within the span of 10 seconds, the fire broke out. 150,000 citronella candles were found in the warehouse
where the fire was burning, and were not yet reached by the fire by the time the local fire department. Citronella is the key component in bug repellent, and is extremely flammable. At least a dozen workers were inside when the fire broke out, but only one worker was taken to the hospital due to smoke inhalation. A firefighter went to the hospital for smoke inhalation as well, but was released soon after. No permanent injuries resulted. Cardinal Glennon Children’s Hospital and St. Louis University were both informed of the fire, and quickly shut down their ventilation systems to be cautious of the smoke. There were many chemicals floating around in effect of
styrofoam and other harmful substances being burned, so all surrounding areas were warned against being outside for extended periods of time. The fire department surveyed businesses to ask what was in their warehouses, and the rumor of magnesium being inside of a local warehouse started. This rumor proved to be false later on. No evacuations from local homes or businesses were made aware. Junior Nicholas Risko, although not in the direct path of the fire, was at St. Louis University for a chess tournament. “We had a tournament the weekend right after the fire, and because we were close, we decided if we should even hold it or not. We ended up having it because the effects
weren’t that hazardous at our location, but it still worried me, at least. I remember driving to SLU for that event wondering if I should even turn off my A/C in case smoke or something was still in the air. I feel really bad that all the materials and products burned in the fire, and the toys for the children that were going to be handed out that week,” Risko said. After rain that Friday, the fire rekindled itself. It did not take long for the flames to be put out for the final time of 11:15p.m. on Saturday night. No one was injured in the rekindling of the flame, nor was much more property destroyed. “I’m glad everything is ok now though, and it wasn’t as bad as it could’ve been,” Risko said.
Spotlight Keys to a succesful finals week
Page 4 December 2017
Spotlight Editor: Victoria Taylor: Taylorv512@ritenourschools.org
Students start to prepare for finals and staff has helped by trying to give them tips and study skills
Jordyn Barber Sophomore Coby Nathaniel highlights work while he starts studying for finals. This was one of the tips given by teachers as students prepare for finals. By MARQUIS GLADDEN Pepperbox Staff
‘Tis the season of finals. The end of the semester is approaching and all throughout the school, everyone is preparing for their big exams. The library is filled with students studying to make the grade they desire. Teachers are staying after school to prepare the students and offer help as needed. Freshman should not need to feel alarmed. This may be the first final of their high school career, but they can not say that they haven’t been warned. At the end of almost every school day, Mr. Nolen says “Remember, take your books home and study”. Whether or not they actually took that advice is entirely up to them. Upperclassmen should be leading by example. Communicate with the freshmen and give them advice on how to overcome finals if they’re stressed. Juniors and seniors already know what to expect, and if not, according to Time Magazine there are some tips on making finals a breeze.
During finals week, the first thing that students should try to do is get a good night’s sleep. Testers don’t want to be on the verge of falling asleep during the test and risk wasting time that could have been used on being focused. Not having enough sleep could also result in guessing your way through the test just so you can get done quicker. Students should take their time, re-read, highlight, and generally do whatever helps them receive a correct answer. This ties into making sure your sleeping schedule is on track. If people normally take naps right after school and do homework late at night, they can try switching it around and instead of taking a nap just go straight to sleep. It will allow them to get more hours of sleep and be easier to wake up in the mornings. Make sure to not oversleep on final days; get there on time, stay focused, and get it done. When planning for finals, take advantage of all the study tools your teachers give you. Math teacher Joshua Winstral has some special plans in mind to help his students succeed. “We will have competitions in the classroom during review that test and strengthen the required skills for the final,” Winstral said.
Educational activities like Kahoot and Quizlet Live are available for all students to master everything they should have learned so that they are ready for the test or project. Students should make study guides, reviews, and practice tests their #1 priority while finals are going on. PLTW Christina DeMuri is already helping her students in this area. “To prepare for the finals, I will be giving my students a study guide and we will go over it together as a class,” DeMuri said. Even if teachers are not staying after school, many of them are using the last few class days to help students prepare,. Ritenour is also holding a Snack and Study event at the high school from 3pm-5pm on Monday, December 18th. Not only are they providing a set time for students to come out and review their work, but they are also providing everyone with food and drinks. The last thing on this list of things to do during finals is to abide by the school’s motto. “Freshmen Start Strong, Sophomores Be Strong, Juniors Stay Strong, and Seniors Finish Strong”.
Coralis Bobe Senior Brenda Reed plays a Kahoot in class. While some teachers use this in class, students can also play Kahoot on their own to study for tests.
Spotlight
Page 5 December 2017 Spotlight Editor: Victoria Taylor: Taylorv512@ritenourschools.org
Final Exam Schedule –1st Semester 2017-2018
Monday December 18 8:05- 9:50
Period 1 EXAM
9:55-11:35
Period 2 EXAM
11:40-1:00
Period 4 REVIEW
Tuesday December 19
Wednesday December 20
8:05-9:35
8:05- 9:35
9:40- 11:10
9:40- 11:10
11:15 – 2:50
11:15 – 2:50
Period 4 EXAM Period 5 EXAM
Lunches:
1) 11:40-12:05
Teacher Work Time
2) 12:05-12:30 3) 12:35-1:00
Period 6 EXAM Period 7 EXAM
Teacher Work Time GRADES DUE BY 3:30pm
1:05- 2:50
Period 3 EXAM Lunch Schedule: Lunches on Monday December 18th will be during 4th hour review period. Teachers will follow their normal lunch schedule. Lunches: 1) 11:40-12:05 2) 12:05-12:30 3) 12:35-1:00
Getting a good night’s sleep is a positive step in performing well on finals. Part of this is keeping to schedules, and making sure that alarms are set to allow enough time to get ready.
The word on the What final do you feel will be your toughest? “I think the hardest subject to study for finals is French because it’s a different language and and I haven’t been learning it my whole life like every other subject.”
~Kylie Gibbons Junior
“I think the hardest subject to study for finals is science because of all of the equations, and it’s just so much to remember.”
~E’myzra McGruder Senior
“I think the hardest subject to study for finals is English because being a foreign student it is hard to balance both languages.”
~Karla Orozco Sophomore
Snacking and Studying When: Monday December 18th Where: Lower Lobby Time: 3-5pm
Why: T o get help with your Study Guides or just a place to study for your finals
Bring a writing utensil and Study Guides
*This is not a place to gather and socialize. Anyone who isn’t using this time to study or do school work will be asked to leave.
“I think the hardest subject to study for finals is history because of all dates, numbers and events.”
~Angelina Favazza Freshman
Spotlight
Page 6 December 2017 Spotlight Editor: Victoria Taylor: Taylorv512@ritenourschools.org
Finals get seniors thinking Riot Girls planning about post high school plans trip to roller derby Seniors plan to use the 3 E’s after graduation and some are getting a head start on their plans By ALLISON BOTH The Pepper Box Staff
Finals are coming up and while the student body is getting ready for the tests, some of the seniors focus are a little different. They’re prepping for the real world. Ritenour uses the three “E’s” as a way to help when getting ready to leave high school. Enlistment, enrollment, and employment are the three E’s that seniors must think about as they are approaching the end of their academic career. Enrollment is going to college, either starting at a four year college or going to a community college for two years then going to a university. Benita Zossoungbo is planning to go to a four year college. “I’m going to go to college
and go into accounting, possibly get my Masters in that and International Business because I want to travel,” Zossoungbo said. Zossoungbo likes the practicality of a degree in accounting, and appreciates that it is in a field in which she is already interested. “I like numbers and actually applying them to real world situations,” Zossoungbo said. Senior Kaitlyn Christy is also planning on going the college route. “I chose college to have a better security net and credentials in the long run, and therefore will get better opportunities,” Christy said. Enlistment is one of the other options, and it involves joining one of the four branches of the military; Army, Marine, Air Force, or National Guard.
Kyle Collier is one of the many seniors who is planning to enlist, and said that he was planning to join the military straight out of high school. “My plans after high school are to become a United States Marine. I leave for boot camp on June 11th for 13 weeks. I’ve always had a desire to join the military, but the Marine Corps stood out to me because of their warrior mentality and the discipline they are instilled with,” Collier said. “My MOS (job in the military) is going to be an Aviation Technician, but I seek to become an Air Crewman where I will be working with the weapon systems on Marine aircraft.” The final E, employment, includes going to a trade school or joining the workforce as soon as seniors have graduated.
in January
The Riot Girls, Ritenour’s feminist club, is planning a trip to a local roller derby to feel empowered and embrace a sport which has traditionally been connected to feminism By MADISON WALDRUP The Pepper Box Staff
- that all people are equal and should be afforded equal opportunity to realize their dreams and potential,” Social studies teacher and Riot Girls adviser Catherine Lampshire, said. “It makes me feel secure that there will be a better tomorrow through the efforts of this generation and this group of people.” The members of the feminist club will be witnessing the Arch Rival Roller Derby in January. The Arch Rival Roller Derby is Saint Louis’ very first and only Women’s Flat Track Derby Association certified all-female roller derby league. The teams; the M-80s, the Stunt Devils, and the Fashionistas make up the roller derby league, and events take place once a month until April 28. Roller derby is considered by many feminist groups to be a feminist sport because of the fact that there is full contact, and the girls derby is the main derby most people attend. “They are strong female role models, seeing them in action doing an aggressive strength oriented sport because it’s full contact, like football,” junior Abigail Dismuke said. Roller derby is embraced by feminist groups because they say it allows girls to be their own heroes. The teams are skating at this event to help spread awareness and better the communities of St. Louis. The skaters who are running the event are trying to motivate other young women, influencing them to tell them that they have a voice and that they can make a difference in the world. “Women should not be seen only as delicate flowers sipping tea and eating cucumber sandwiches. Women come in many shapes and sizes and can do the most amazing things. Girls want to have fun,” Lampshire said.
Ritenour High School’s feminist club, the Riot Girls, are making plans to attend a roller derby event amongst other activities that they intend to use to increase awareness of feminist issues. The Riot Girls consists of dedicated, open-minded students who want to spread awareness of gender injustice in America. The purpose of the group is to make a commitment to educate not just themselves, but their peers as well. They strive to bring about change in their community in a positive way. They believe that women, or people in general, should be proud of who they are, and the club helps influence females to be confident in themselves and stand up for their rights. The feminist club at Ritenour is striving to spread awareness of this gender inequality. “Teachers don’t teach us about it and we feel like it is important enough to discuss. We talk about issues with school in terms of feminism. Like there are not Ron Steinschriber free feminine products in the bathrooms,” junior Alicia The 3 E’s are listed all around campus. Students are encouraged to be specific about their plans after high school and to think about whether they are going to college, the work force Row, a member of the Riot Girls, explained. or the military. The club is trying to make a difference in the world. Their goal is to inform people about what feminism is, they want to empower girls, give them confidence about their body images, and give knowledge about women’s By VICTORIA TAYLOR like St. Louis Mills. stores offer; it’s as if they don’t rights and what it means. The members want to make Spotlight Editor “I don’t go to the Mills want me to shop in their the women of America view because there isn’t anything brick and mortar stores. I themselves as the strong left in there anymore,” Cross do feel a little guilty for not people they already are, they Online shopping has said. shopping in person, but the recently been replacing There are still about 1,100 ease of shopping assuages my want to give girls assurance that they can only be the best shopping in person for many malls in the U.S. today, but guilt,” Haar-Chapman said. they can be. people, and that has affected a quarter of them are at risk However, not everybody “They are today’s rebels millions of shopping malls, of closing over the next five favors online shopping more who will ensure that our holiday shoppers, and other years, according to estimates than going into stores. country adheres to our stores in general during the from Credit Suisse. Sophomore Sam Jordan Liberal Democratic tradition holidays. Although this topic has still likes to buy things in In fact, the number of been a part of a nationwide brick and mortar shops shopping malls that used change in economies, any because he is afraid of credit to be present in the United consumer of products from card fraud. He still goes to States has dropped gradually online or in stores has a malls, even if he isn’t going to throughout the last couple contribution to the situation buy something all the time, decades. Many sources at hand. English teacher continuing the tradition of a believe this is partially due to Louise Haar-Chapman shared mall as a teenage hangout. the rising number of people her input on her personal “If I’m with a lot of people, who spend lots of time preferences regarding online I’m probably just walking surfing the web, therefore it is shopping versus shopping in around. The mall is a place easy create more consumers person. to meet other people,” Jordan of shopping advertisements. “The main advantage said. Most malls that currently for shopping online is the Science teacher Dr. haven’t already closed must comfort factor. I don’t have to Heather Bonner believes be working even harder to worry about what I’m wearing that shopping in an actual survive month after month. or how my hair looks. I can store does not have to be so St. Louis has seen its have my coffee and snuggle stressful, and can actually be share of mall closings, and the dogs while I shop. A few good family time. many have been close to the days later, UPS delivers the “I always love going out Ritenour district. In the last boxes to my door, and I didn’t shopping with my sister 10 years, the Northwest Plaza have to fight for a parking or my husband and just and Jamestown Mall have space, lug my purchases spending time with them,” both closed, and the St. Louis around, or hide them from Bonner said. “ I am never Mills has seen a dramatic my family,” Haar-Chapman upset about crowds and find decrease in shoppers and said. the hustle and bustle to be anchor stores. Haar-Chapman also invigorating. Hearing the Courtesy: Mike Kalasnic via flickr Freshman Andrew Cross mentioned that there are Christmas music playing does not like to buy products often many more benefits to in the stores is a real bonus The Jamestown Mall is one of a few recent examples of online, and would prefer to shop online than there would too!” malls that have shut down in the St. Louis area. Some buy them in the store, but he be to go into the actual store. sources attribute online shopping options as a main reason still will not do that at a place “I also love the online deals that malls have seen a decrease in business.
The decline of the shopping mall As the holidays approach, online shopping gives people the opportunity to stay away from busy malls
Sports
Page 7 December 2017 Sports Editor: Coralis Bobe bobec863@ritenourschools.org
Ritenour teams take on newcomers
Some winter athletes have tried out for new sports to try to expand their horizons and meet new people By PIERRE BROWN The Pepper Box Staff Many athletes enroll at Ritenour as freshman with multiple years experience in their respective sports, and challenge older students for spots on JV and varsity teams. However, there are many students who come to the high school and try to get involved in sports for a variety of reasons, even if they have no prior experience in their sports. There are a handful of students at Ritenour who are now participating in winter sports after having no prior experience on a team for that sport. Freshman Guadalupe Rico had not been a swimmer for any structured team before she got to Ritenour. However, says that when she first started swimming for Ritenour she already had some friends on the team, but she now loves the fact that she has gotten to meet new people. “I expected it to go exactly how it’s going with learning the strokes, diving, and flipturns. I’m looking forward to becoming a better swimmer throughout the season and it is tiring, but in the end it’s fun,” Rico said. Rico has already attended her first swim meet, and set
personal best times that she can constantly try to improve over the course of the season. She can use what she has learned in practice to beat to those times later on. Aside from being comfortable coming out for the team because of friends who would also be on the team, Rico also said that the reason why she started swimming was because she likes sports and she wanted to try something different than she had done before. Junior Franchesca Goude is also on the swim team after not having participated during her first two years of high school. She wanted to Ron Steinschriber learn something new and Sophomore Makilya Brisby practices with the basketball team at an after school practice on see if she could handle the December 13. Brisby joined the basketball program as a sophomore because she wanted to competition by joining a team try something new and meet new people. that she had seen from afar during her first two years at swimmer,” Goude said. “I to learning new things, as well, and Goude is excited the high school. thought it was going to be having fun, and meeting new about the potential for the “I’ve always admired easy to swim fast because I’m people,” Brisby said. season as it plays out. swimmers and I wanted to used to swimming, but it’s Brisby says that the team The newcomers to each see if I could try it out. I definitely a lot more difficult is doing well so far and they sport are looking forward to wanted to see what I could that I thought. It’s not too have already won two games. growing over the course of learn in addition to what I difficult for me to do, but Brisby also said that she the season, as well as meeting thought I already knew from different. ” joined the team because she new people and branching it,” Goude said. Sophomore Makilya just wanted to try something out to something new. Goude is excited to be Brisby is a basketball player new. Brisby is not the first Goude is already excited with a member of a team and this year, and she tried out girl to join the basketball her progress, and is looking see some positive growth this year after not playing team after her freshman year, forward to seeing how she with her personal times and her freshman year. Brisby as the JV team usually has ends the season. fundamentals of swimming. played tennis during the fall at least one player who has “I think as of right now, “I’m looking forward season, and started coming to never played on an organized since I’m new to competitive to seeing how I grow as a basketball open gyms as soon basketball team before. swimming, I’m doing pretty swimmer myself, and how as her tennis season had come Like the basketball team, well, but I still have a lot to the other team members to a close. the girls swim team has also learn,” Goude said. can help me become a better “I am looking forward started the year with a win
Brand name athletes Q: What’s your favorite athletic brand and why? A: Nike is probably my favorite brand. They have really good quality apparel. Q: What’s your least favorite and why? A: That brand, New Balance. Some of their stuff is really ugly. Q: Do you ever cross brand? Are you particular on brands?
A: Yeah, I cross brand. I’m not very particular on brands. I wear whatever is comfortable and stylish. Q: Do you wear different brands for different sports?
clothes? A: Not really; I wear Nike sweatpants and tennis shoes almost everyday.
A: Yeah, for swim, our goggles are Speedo and our suits are TYR. For volleyball we wear Asics and Nike.
NAME: Alyssa Lane GRADE: Sophomore SPORT: Girls Swimming
Q: Is the apparel you wear for sports different than your regular
What is your favorite athletic brand?
Gloria Jackson Cheerleading
Ryan Howerton Wrestling
Brandon Martin Boys Basketball
Alexis Ramey Girls Basketball
Nike
Nike
Nike
Under Armour
Sports
Page 8 December 2017 Spotts Editor: Coralis Bobe bobec863@ritenourschools.org
2017 Ritenour Winter Sports Capsules BOY’S BASKETBALL Coach Mike Nelke •Last years record: 18-9 •Current record: 5-4 •Captains: Kobe Smith and Demeetrie Beach •Key returners: Kobe Smith, Demeetrie Beach, Nick Williams, Jon Bishop, Barrion Clemons, and Darrell Bolden •Key newcomers: Jordan Holmes and Damon Sanders RHS Athletics •Expectations for this season: We have very high expectations. We expect to Senior Nick Williams takes a shot in a game from last season.
compete against every team we play against, improve our record from last year, and be in the mix for a conference championship and district championship.
GIRL’S SWIM Coach Andrea Rivera •Last years record: 3-8 •Current record: 1-1 •Key returners: I have a great group of veterans. Senior returners who have done a great job of leading the team are Samantha Pullen, Izzy Clark, Leanna Morales, Emma Stiebel, and Monica Jara. •Key newcomers: Amiya Clark, Jayden Frost, Reese Sherman, Kim Teoli, Emma Finnegan, Franchesca Goude, Aschia Speer, Guadalupe Rico, Emma Wallace, Kenya Gomez, Denise Canchola, CeCe Doherty, and Madison Secrease •Expectations for this season: We have a strong core and positive energy that makes being at meets fun. We have already won 2 meets so far this year and I’m looking forward to seeing what this team can do. I always stress to the team that it is about progress so after each meet we put a huge focus on times and always making their best time better.
RHS Athletics Senior Leanna Morales swims in a meet from last season.
GIRL’S BASKETBALL Coach Ron Steinschriber •Last years record: 9-18 •Current Record: 5-1 •Captains: Michaela Reed and Alexis Ramey •Key returners: Alexis Ramey, Michaela Reed, Nature Frost, Dannie Millett, Adreona McCraw, and Rosalind Johnston •Key newcomers: Makayla Williams, Ashlee Frazier, and E’mysha McGruder
•Expectations for this season: We could have a really great season this year. We have a lot of returners, and even though we fought through some early RHS Athletics season injuries, we won our first tournament and started 3-0 for the first Senior Michaela Reed defends a Lutheran North player. Reed is one time in four years. We have a nice mix of players at different spots, and I of the team captains this season. think we are going to see what we’ve been building for the last few years.
WRESTLING Coach Dean Cochran •Last years record: The team won several duels and had two state qualifiers. Ryan Howerton place sixth in the state. •Captains: Austin Cornell at 120 and Ryan Howerton At 160 •Key returners: Anthony Chrun 106, Austin Cornell at 120, RJ Sagum at 132, Jourdan Shonibare at 145, Natanael Mendez 153, Mamadou Diouf 152, and Ryan Howerton 160 •Key newcomers: Bobby Immekus 126, Devin Hutson 195, Brandon Lock 220, and Blake Rogenhofer 285 •Expectations for this season: We want to win every dual meet and place in the top 3 of every tournament. We would like to have 7 qualify for the state meet and have 3 win medals. We want to build our program for years to come. We want men and women to come out and challenge themselves everyday. We are creating leaders in our room that can coach and urge fellow team members to get better every day. The coaches demand great things in the room and model this every day.
Heather Brown Senior Ryan Howerton wrestles in a meet last season. Howerton is a returning State competitor along with senior Austin Cornell.