The Outlet 12.12
1000 Borgia Drive www.borgianews.com
news magazine
The Outlet winter 2012
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volume 3
feature 3 5 6 7 8 14
Gsilentg Students and instruments Blechle takes action Exceptional students volunteer Moroney graduates early Twinning
outlet investigates 4 16 22
Dancing around new tradition Social media GPS breeding lost generation
opinion 31 31
Stepping out of the box Technology: replacing our brains?
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Adviser Ms. Dana Volkman
issue 2
sports 10 11 12
Basketball profiles Neier’s legacy Sibling rivalries
just for fun 18 20 23 24 27 28
Black friday stories Gifts not to give Cook’s corner Life as we know it X marks the spot And the winner is...
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28
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Editor in Chief Joan Roubian Business Manager Emma Darling Photo Editor Hannah Post Copy Editor JT Buchheit Staff Writers Sarah Holtmeyer Rose Leopold Allison Mitchell Emily Price Janie Rudloff Alex Venardos The Outlet is published quarterly by the students of the Newspaper Journalism class at St. Francis Borgia Regional High School, 1000 Borgia Drive, Washington, MO 63090. The purpose of the newspaper is to provide the school community with information concerning school news and events and to provide practical journalism experience to the students enrolled in the class. The Outlet is a member of the National Scholastic Press Association and Sponsors of School Publications. Editorial Content All editorials, known as columns, receive a byline and are the opinion of that writer. They do not necessarily reflect the views of the newspaper journalism class or the administration at SFBRHS. Any suggestions for guest commentators should be directed toward Joan Roubian, Editor in Chief Advertisement Advertisements are paid for and purchased by companies. They are solicited by The Outlet staff. Advertisements fund production costs and Web site maintenance. Advertisements vary in price, depending on the size. The Outlet staff can design an ad if needed. If you would like to advertise in The Outlet, please contact Dana Volkman, adviser.
Borgia Has a New Beat
Andrew Obermark not pictured
It’s not One Direction. It’s not Justin Bieber. It’s St. Francis Borgia’s very own band, gSilentG. This new band is made up of six Borgia students. George Wingbermuehle, SFBRHS president, originally formed gSilentG to play at the Healthy Lifestyles program, but after this performance was over, the band decided to continue making music. “Once we actually did the Healthy Lifestyles performance, we were so excited,” said senior Christian Sullivan. “Immediately from there we started planning different gigs.” Seniors Andrew Obermark and Dean Wilson, and juniors Ted Reidy, Marcus Brinker and Neal Alfermann are also members of the band. Each member, except for Alfermann, the band’s drummer, gets a chance to sing during each performance. Obermark, Reidy and Brinker alternate playing lead, rhythm and bass guitar. Sullivan is “dominantly the lead singer,” said Alfermann, while Wilson is the band’s rapper. gSilentG was introduced to the Borgia student body during the homecoming pep assembly in September. They performed “Home” by Phillip Phillips, “Lighters” by Eminem, and “Allstar” by Smash Mouth. gSilentG was an instant hit with the Borgia community. Freshman Jake Schaper agreed. “They were amazing! I think they could be successful in multiple genres.” The band, however, was not always gSilentG. “Originally, we were thinking of the name Vavoom,”
Rose Leopold
Outlet Staff Writer
Sullivan said. “(Then) Neal said, ‘What if it was SilentG, but there was a g on the front that was silent, like gnat’.” The other band members greeted this new name with much enthusiasm. The band is “a lot of fun,” said Reidy, but it also requires a lot of hard work. Before Healthy Lifestyles, gSilentG rehearsed at Alfermann’s house twice a week for three to four hours each time. They have “slowed down” for the time being, but will start rehearsing again before upcoming shows. “What people don’t see is all the hard work put into the songs behind the scenes at practices and on each band member’s own time,” Obermark said. All members agreed that one of the best parts about being in gSilentG is “playing with friends.” “(The best part is) just being able to be a part of a group experience where everyone is contributing their talents to make one pretty picture,” said Wilson. The band’s next performance will be at the annual Winter Dance in the cafeteria on Feb. 1. They will also perform on the Friday of Borgia Fest from 4-7 p.m. under the main tent. (The band performs covers of modern music, pop music and music people can dance to.) “They play a whole variety of songs,” commented Wingbermuehle. The band performs covers of modern music, pop music and music people can dance to.) Fans can “like” them on Facebook under gSilentG or follow them on Twitter.
gSilentG performs at Borgia’s homecoming pep assembly
The Outlet | 3
Emily Price
Outlet Staff Writer
Homecoming: one of the of the most anticipated events of the Borgia school year. It’s the one time of the year that everyone, no matter what grade, can dress up and come together for a dance. So the idea of having two of these dances a year has stirred up a quite a bit of excitement around Borgia. Right after school begins in August, people’s minds begin to wander to thinking about homecoming. By the time September rolls around, the football season is in full swing and homecoming looms just around the corner. Guys and girls begin to feel the pressure of finding a date and picking out that perfect outfit. The excitement and nervousness build until homecoming finally arrives. Most of the school attends, and everyone enjoys the chance to dress up and see everyone else looking spiffy. For most, homecoming is one of the highest points of the school year. For the weeks following the dance, students tell homecoming stories or share homecoming pictures. Borgia students agree: homecoming leaves a big impact. According to sophomore Julie Rudloff, after homecoming, there’s nothing except a big void of fun. “The next thing students look forward to is Christmas break. After that, Easter break. And then summer vacation,” Rudloff said. “Except for prom for seniors, there’s not much to break up the boringness.” This is why Borgia administrators and club leaders are dancing around the idea of starting a winter formal. Borgia has never had a winter formal, but many students agree that they would enjoy having a second formal dance some time following Christmas break. “I think it’d be pretty cool to have a winter formal,” said sophomore John Himmelberg. “I like the idea.” Clara Blatt, junior, agreed with Himmelberg and felt a winter formal could be good for students. “I think it would be great if every class got involved and attended,” Blatt said. “I also think that there should be a lot of fake snow and Christmas lights. I’d be really inclined to go then.” Some students argue that homecoming being Borgia’s only formal dance is special. Bill Morgan, freshman, said that he believes people would look forward to a winter formal, but he likes that Borgia is one of the only schools that doesn’t have multiple formal dances. Brad Bruns, dean of students, said that it sounds like a good idea if that’s what the students want. “I’d have no issue with it as long as someone took the lead and organized it,” said Bruns. “I think it would be a good thing to have a formal dance in the fall and in the spring, but there is a lot of basketball going on in the gym in January, so that’s something to take into consideration.” George Wingbermuehle, Borgia’s president, likes the idea of having a winter formal in January. “It would be nice to have a second big thing for students to look forward to,” said Wingbermuehle. “It would be a good, safe way for students to have fun and it would make good money for whoever sponsors it.” Wingbermuehle also suggested having a band at this dance rather than a DJ. “It would make this dance different from homecoming,” he said. “We’ve kind of lost that over the years and it would be a neat way to get back to older traditions.” A winter formal may soon be a new tradition to look forward to for Borgia students. Now’s the chance for you to express your opinion. Take our poll and return it to room 208 by Dec. 21 (hurry, before the world ends) and let us know what you think!
4 | The Outlet
Students Show Musical Interest oUtside of class
From having the only marching band in the Archdiocese of St. Louis to a nation-traveling jazz band, Borgia is well acquainted with music. Despite popular belief, the band isn’t the only outlet SFBRHS students have for music. In fact, not all students who play instruments are in the traditional band class. Some are in their own bands, while others play instruments simply for their own pleasure. Alex Venardos Outlet Staff Writer
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Senior
Senior Stephen Burgess has been playing guitar for five years. He began lessons with his current teacher, Mel Parker, when he was 12, and continues to play today. “I started because my parents wanted me to learn to play an instrument,” Burgess said. “I saw the guitar as being the ‘cool’ choice.” He enjoys playing the guitar and is attempting to begin a band with other seniors Wayne Bittick and Daniel Sauer. Burgess said that Eric Clapton is his musical idol.
& o n a o Pi tar n Freshman Junior a i G ui Junior Natalie Baker loves P Ethan Stahl, freshman, has music so much that she plays two instruments: piano and guitar. She started playing piano when she was nine years old, after her mother introduced her to the instument. Today she takes piano lessons from Connie Flynn. Baker picked up guitar over the past summer to expand her musical repertoire. She takes guitar lessons from Matt Diener at River City Music. Baker loves blues and rock n’ roll. She looks up to Jack White, Nirvana and Janis Joplin in the music world and sees music in many different ways. “Music is a great way to relieve stress,” Baker said. She also finds music important in how people express themselves. “We all go through the same things; it’s how we express them that sets us apart,” Baker said.
been playing the piano since he was seven. It all started when he had the dream of playing in a band. His mom joked around, asking if he wanted to take piano lessons. He answered with a yes, and he decided to go through with it. His teacher is Dr. Jennifer Judd, and he looks up to Joseph Eckelkamp, a Borgia alum who also plays piano. Stahl currently plays in the Jazz band and prefers to play piano for enjoyment. “I place the piano at the center of my life,” he said. “I really don’t have time for anything else.” His latest performance was at Borgia’s Open House, which was held in late October. The Outlet | 5
Blechle Takes Action Against LRA Allison Mitchell Outlet Staff Writer
After watching the popular “Stop Kony” video in theology class as a junior, Alex Blechle, now a senior, has been taking the extra step against weekend.” Joseph Kony, leader of the Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA). Ochen was captured by Kony for two months. Unlike so “The Lord’s Resistance Army is a rebel group led by many of the victims, Ochen escaped and is now traveling around the Joseph Kony; it’s responsible for the mutilation, rape and capture of world, spreading word about his capturer. Blechle had Ochen attend thousands of African children,” Blechle said. “When I watched the the Borgia screening to discuss the tragedy he went through back video in class, I just felt like I had to do something.” home. This tragedy has gained so much attention around the “Geoffrey’s story was amazing,” Blechle said. “It changed world even President Barack Obama is taking action against the my life.” LRA. Obama passed the Lord’s Resistance Army Disarmament and Leading the screening at Borgia is not the only way Blechle Northern Uganda Recovery Act during his first term as president. has spread the word about the LRA. He has also talked on KLPW, But President Obama isn’t the only one making a difference. was featured in the Missourian and spoke to the rotary club. Blechle is a prime supporter of The Invisible Children In addition, Blechle is also applying for an internFoundation, a group created solely to help focus ship to work in the Invisible Children’s offices in people’s attention to the tragedies in Africa. And, San Diego, Calif. Borgia has made unlike most who tried spreading the word by re “It is free to apply, and other than having one of the posting the popular video via Facebook or Twitter, to get a ton of recommendations, it’s a normal applilargest monetary Blechle took on the responsibility of planning a cation,” Blechle said. “The internship would be for donations to the screening at Borgia to help spread the word to more June and July of this summer, so it would be over Invisible Children people. before I go to college.” Foundation in the “The screening was Oct. 7,” Blechle said. If Blechle receives this internship, he will Midwest. “It took me approximately three weeks to plan, and be able to make even more of a difference in his about 130 people came.” fight. The Invisible Children Foundation sent four “roadies” “It’s not like I’ve been guaranteed a spot-- I still have to and one Ugandan man to speak of his experience with the LRA. To apply and get accepted,” he said. I’m applying and hoping, though.” become a “roadie,” according to the Invisible Children, one has to Blechle urged others to get involved in the fight against the go through five weeks of intensive training and preparation. Their LRA. It’s a matter of donating a few dollars, or just paying close primary goal is to go through the country and speak about the LRA. attention to what’s going on in Africa. He is also extremely proud to Each day, they show screenings, plan the day’s events, sell merchan- boast that Borgia has made one of the largest monetary donations to dise, manage inventory, handle accounting and deposits and mentor the Invisible Children Foundation in the Midwest. and encourage supporters they meet on tours. “There is an LRA crisis tracker app that shows the deaths, “Geoffrey Ochen is the man from Uganda who spoke about abductions and returnees from this month, year and since 2009,” his experience,” Blechle said. “Along with him came Rachael, Ally, Blechle said. “When you read about a child coming home and you Briley and Maggie. They stayed with my family in Washington for a can feel partly responsible... That’s what keeps me going.” 6 | The Outlet
‘E xc e p t i o n a l ’ S tu d e n ts Vo l u n te e r Allison Mitchell
Outlet Staff Writer
Exceptional Equestrian volunteers, students and horses go about their day-to-day activities.
M
Monroe usually volunteers twice a week, on Mondays and Tuesdays. “I heard about it actually from my neighbor who has Down syndrome and used to ride there,” Monroe said. “I’ve always wanted to work with horses, and since I have personal experience with kids with disabilities, I thought it was a good choice.” Stephanie Holdmeyer, junior, and her boyfriend volunteer at Exceptional Equestrian every weekend. “I started volunteering there to get Christian service hours, but I loved it so
any students at St. Francis Borgia Regional High School are earning Christian service hours by volunteering at Exceptional Equestrian of the Missouri Valley, a therapeutic riding program for children and adults with special needs. A requirement for graduation at Borgia is that each student must accumulate 100 hours of Christian service by his or her senior year. Programs like Exceptional Equestrians are making it easier for students to complete this requirement. The program began in 1991 and has been helping people with different needs ever since. Exceptional Equestrion “I started volunteerhelps different riders with their physical ing to get service and mental capacities. It is located about 10 hours, but I loved it minutes outside of Washington, in Krakow, so much that I Missouri. The Exceptional Equestrian facility kept going” is a “beautiful,” big barn with 11 horses, Stephanie Holdmeyer. all different breeds and ages, said Jamie Monroe, senior who started volunteering at Exceptional Equestrians this past October. One of their more popular horses, Big Mac, a 14-year-old Clydesdale, has won numerous awards for his work with therapeutic riding. Monroe mostly helps by sidewalking, which means she walks alongside the horse to assist the rider. “I help them with their exercises, encourage them and help keep them stable while riding,” explained Monroe.
much that I kept going,” Holdmeyer explained. Both volunteers agreed that Exceptional Equestrian is not only a great way to fulfill required service hours, but also to give back to the community. The program seeks volunteers year round. No specific skill is required. If students are in need of Christian service hours, like to work with horses or just want a way to help, they can visit Exceptional Equestrian’s Web site at www. eemv.org.
“It feels good to leave knowing that somehow I helped impact someone’s life” Jamie Monroe.
The Outlet | 7
CAITLIN T he end of the first semester marks accomplishments for different stu-
different dents. Freshmen are proud of the first semester they finally have under their belts, while seniors can’t wait to complete their eighth and final semester at St. Francis Borgia Regional High School. For senior Caitlin Moroney, however, the end of the fall semester marks the end of her high school career. During second semester, she will be working to improve her dancing technique at Webster University in St. Louis before enrolling in a full-time university. “At the end of my junior year, I realized that the professional dance world is incredibly tough and that I needed to spend more time on my dance technique and training,” Moroney explained. “It’s crazy to think I’ll be done with Borgia classes at the end of this semester.” Since the end of her junior year, Moroney and her parents have been working with the administration to coordinate her credit requirements, thus allowing her to leave Borgia a semester early. “The very first thing I did was talk to Mr. Wunderlich, my counselor. I asked him if there was a possibility that I could leave early,” Moroney said. “At first, his response was that there would be no way I could leave early, but after several meetings with him, Mr. Wingbermuehle and Dr. Heger, they allowed me to take part in this amazing opportunity.” Although it was a difficult decision, Moroney said she wouldn’t have had it any other way. “I was terrified to even ask my parents if they would be okay with me leaving school early to dance,” she said. “But I finally worked up the courage, and we began the process.” Although she’s skipping an entire semester, Moroney is by no means skipping out on any of her credits. Over the summer and during first semester, she took extensive online courses to complete her required Borgia credits. These included two English courses, a Theology course and an independent study. “The summer before senior year started, I had a knee injury that
8 | The Outlet
Joan Roubian
Outlet editor in chief
put me out of dance for about three months, so I had the whole summer to do schoolwork,” Moroney said. “It (wasn’t) and isn’t easy to do. It takes a lot of self-motivation because I have to make sure I’m on top of all my online classes as well as my Borgia classes right now; it’s been incredibly busy, but I know that it will eventually be worth it.” Although it has been a “long and busy” feat, Moroney is excited for what next semester at Webster University has to offer. “After Christmas break, I will be taking ballet, modern, jazz and vocal performance classes with other dance majors. I haven’t received my schedule yet, but I will most likely be (at Webster) for four to five days a week,” she said. “Another huge part of my time will be spent in Chicago or New York City for dance auditions. I have out-of-state auditions almost every weekend in January and February. Basically, I will spend all of second semester dancing,” she joked. Like most of the senior class, Moroney will be starting college during the fall of 2013. So far, she has applied to six different schools in New York City, and another university in upstate New York. “The auditions in January and February will determine which school I actually attend,” she said. “But regardless, I will be in jjjjjjjjjjj New York.” Moroney is thankful that even though she will be separated from her friends in the classroom, she still has the opportunities to walk the stage at graduation and attend prom with the rest of the senior class in April. Wherever Moroney chooses to attend, she hopes to pursue a Bachelor’s Degree in fine arts with an emphasis in dance, along with minors in psychology and musical theatre. “When I think about leaving, I get extremely nervous and question if I made the right decision,” she said. “I know that I will miss seeing my friends in the hallways and having classes with the people I have experienced the last four years with, but I know that I made the right decision in following my dreams.”
“I know that I will miss seeing my friends in the hallways and having classes with the people I have experienced the last four years with, but I know that I made the right decision in following my dreams.�
the outlet | 9
Janie Rudloff
Outlet staff writer
Katie Lindemann Position: Post
Height: 5’10’’
Best Basketball Memory: “team-bonding with claire schroeder” Favorite Pump Up Song: “get low” by lil jon Coolest Dance Move: “stanky leg” and the “cabbage patch” Superpower: reading minds Looking Forward To: “having another successful season, our team-bonding, and playing with the best group of girls a team could have.” Quote: “you miss 100 percent of the shots you don’t take.” - Wayne Gretzky
Position: guard Height: 5’5’’ Best Basketball Memory: “getting a video of claire schroeder doing the cinnamon challenge.” Favorite Pump Up Song: “2 step” by unk Coolest Dance Move: “the wop” or “the sprinkler” Superpower: flying Looking Forward To: “having a really fun season and just being a senior” Quote: “coach parcell reads us a different quote each practice, and i try to make that my quote of the day.”
Position: Post Height: 5’7’’ Best Basketball Memory: Beating Sullivan in districts Favorite Pump Up song: “How far we’ve come” by matchbox 20 Coolest Dance Move: “caramelldansen” Superpower: shape-shifting Looking Forward To: “going to state and winning Quote: “I didn’t fail; i found out 2000 ways how not to make a light bulb.” -Thomas Edison 10 | The outlet
“I enjoyed coaching them all. During that season, you get a group of kids who want to be better, and it’s fun whatever season you’re in,” said Neier. Neier has alsotaught a large amount of teachers who are now part of Borgia’s faculty, including Nicole Addison, Emily Brinkmann, Tim Buchheit, Andrew Eggert, Kayla Kimminau, Theresa McGowan, Jon Noelker, Lindsay Riegel, Rosanne Snider, Rob Struckhoff, Spencer Unnerstall and John Wunderlich. “Neier was my 9th grade P.E. teacher, said Theresa McGowan, guidance counselor. “He was straight out of college. I always felt like he had a very positive attitude, and to this day he’s someone I really admire.” While many teachers with his amount of experience choose to retire, Neier happily continues his career. “I enjoy being around the kids,” Neier said. “It’s a great place to teach because of the kids and camaraderie of the teachers. We also have a great administration.” Neier has had a large impact on some of the people he has coached. Many have looked up to him as an inspiration. “He taught us that hard work can pay off,” said Helfrich. Neier himself had inspirations, including his own family and athletic directors. “My dad and uncle were coaches, and I was also inspired by my high school coaches, Coach DeGreeff and Coach Flanagan,” Neier said. Dave Neier’s career has spanned multiple decades, and he has been recognized as a hallmark of Borgia sports. The school’s athletes will remember him as an inspiration for them to do their best every time. The Outlet | 11
Left: Dave Neier, 1971. Above: the 2012-13 boys varisty basketball team, coached by Dave Neier.
Dave Neier: Going Behind the Scenes
J.T. Buchheit
Outlet Copy Editor
Dave Neier has had a long and illustrious career, both as a teacher and a coach. Many of his students, present and former, have had positive experiences with Neier. With the basketball season just underway, Neier’s focus is strictly on basketball and fielding the best team Borgia could possibly have. On Nov. 30, Neier celebrated his 600th win. His current basketball players are confident Neier can lead the team to yet another successful season. “I feel very confident because he’s had a lot of different players and knows how to handle different game situations,” said junior Joe Helfrich. Neier has had slathers of experience teaching and coaching. He came to Borgia in 1977 after coaching basketball for two years at Washington High School. Besides basketball, he has also coached football, baseball and girls and boys golf.
sibling competition: pushing limits borgia athlete rivalries pose a threat for stable sibling relationships Janie Rudloff
Outlet staff writer
Joe & Tony Helfrich
Janie & Molly Arand
Ethan & Bethany Ottens
Eli and Peyton Manning have more in common with several Borgia students cause I was afraid of what I might do.” than what meets the eye. Whether siblings are trying to beat the other or improve their Not every game or practice is a competition for Borgia students, though. skills, it has come to a point that sibling rivalries might put harmful strains on the sibAccording to the Arand sisters, their rivalry helps them improve their defensive and lings’ relationships. No matter what the sport, the competition between siblings affects offensive skills. siblings everywhere-- including Borgia students. “I want to help her improve and have someone help me improve as well,” Janie Arand, junior, agreed that she and her sophomore sister, Molly, are very Janie said. “When we are playing on the field or court, we are really honest with each competitive when playing sports. other. She will tell me when I need to pass or “If we are told to do push-ups, I have improve on my defense and I will her her to do more than her (because) we both hate things like that too.” losing,” Janie said. The students also admit they have indeed Janie and Molly both participate in benefited from their sibling rivalry. Despite numerous extracurricular activities at Borgia popular belief, one of the benefits is a closer such as volleyball, basketball, soccer, Student relationship. Council, Spirit Leaders, Ecology Club and German Klub. “We are really close and I can tell her The rivalry affected the sisters to -molly arand, sophomore anything; we basically do everything tothe point where they could not stand playing gether,” Janie said. “(I) am so lucky to have against one another. my sister to challenge (me) on the court or field “We used to never be able to finish a one-on-one basketball game without and in school.” someone getting mad,” said Janie. Molly agreed her sister helped her become a better athlete. Joe Helfrich, junior, plays basketball and baseball at Borgia while his senior “I wouldn’t be the athlete I am today without my sister,” she said. “She brother Tony participates in baseball and plays basketball for recreation. The brothers pushes me every day to be better, and I do the same to her.” agreed that they challenge each other on the court. Joe mentioned the benefits of his rivalry and how his rivalry with his brother “(My brother and I) really used to challenge each other to determine who was faded as they grew older. better,” Joe said. “It helps to have someone who can rebound for me when I want to shoot, and Bethany Ottens, junior, and brother Ethan, freshman, have a special rivalry I can catch for him when he wants to throw,” Joe said. “The rivalry is gone now.” when they compete in soccer. Both students play very aggressively, even to the point Tony acknowledged the benefits of the rivalry, but instead of agreeing with of injuring each other. his brother, Tony thought the rivalry never actually disappeared from their relationship. “We have a love-hate rivalry,” Bethany said. “If Ethan challenges me, I will “Without (the rivalry), I don’t think we would be as athletic or hard-working run him into the wall or trip him (because) I’m a very aggressive player.” as we are,” Tony said. “It results in us both wanting the best for each other, but (there While playing sports against his sister, Ethan agreed that he and his sister did is) a little part of us wanting to be better than the other.” not hold competitive aggression back. The rivalry between siblings may put a strain on their relationship, but most “I am also very aggressive, and I have gotten some yellow cards,” he comstudents found their sibling rivalry helped motivate them, improve their athletic abilimented. “When I play, I really get into it. One time, a referee made a bad call and ties and provide a closer relationship. gave me a yellow card for something I didn’t do. I took myself out of the game be-
““i wouldn’t be the athlete i am today without my sister.”
12 | The Outlet
Twinning at Borgia Sharing stories, memories and DNA Lorelei
At St. Francis Borgia Regional High School, there are four sets of twins: freshmen Curtis and Corey Glosemeyer and Jill and Lorelei Rhomberg, juniors Allison and Eric Unnerstall and seniors A.J. and Austin Hurtig. Though spread out in each grade level, these sets of twins have more in common than they probably realize. Allison Mitchell
Outlet Staff Writer
Jill Jill and Lorelei Rhomberg
14 | The Outlet
Freshmen Jill and Lorelei Rhomberg, identical twins, both agree that many people have a hard time telling them apart. “At first, people had a hard time, and some even thought we were the same person,” Jill joked. “But now everyone can tell us apart, some with difficulty, though.” Mary Houska, the twins’ mother, explained her feelings when she found out she was pregnant again, not only with one child, but with twins. “I was shocked, but excited at the same time,” said Houska. “It was different raisng twins because they always tried to communicate at the same time and they would crawl in different directions.” Natalie Rhomberg, the twins’ older sister, junior, joked about all the funny things the twins did as babies. “I remember that the twins at breakfast would always throw food at each other,” laughed Natalie. The difference in the twins’ personalities really started to show when they started kindergarten. “Lorelei was always more independent while Jill always wanted lots of attention from my mom,” explained Natalie. Though the twins’ mother
always encouraged individuality, she does admit that she used to dress them alike and provide them with the same schedule. “It was just easier for me when they were younger for them to have the same schedule,” said Houska. Although Jill and Lorelei look alike, Natalie has always noticed their very different personalities. “It was very different because even though they are twins, they have very different personalities,” Natalie said. The twins agreed that they can get on each other’s nerves. However, the Rhomberg twins say they are very lucky to have each other. “I am lucky because my best friend is always there,” Jill said. “I can’t seem to get rid of her.” Lorelei agreed that it’s always nice to have her closest friend with her at all times, even if they do fight occasionally. In fact, just last month, Lorelei accidentally broke Jill’s nose after getting into a casual pillow fight. “We were both laughing, so I didn’t think she was hurt,” Lorelei said, “until she held up her hands and there was blood all over them.” Just an average day for the Rhomber twins.
Austin and AJ Hurtig Seniors AJ and Austin Hurtig may share the same birthday, but these fraternal twins couldn’t be more different from each other. Andy Hurtig, the twins’ father, noticed the differences between the two immediately. “Not only did we notice the different facial features,” he said, “but we were also able to sense the different personalities right from the get-go.” Austin, the younger twin, said that his parents have never had a problem differentiating between his brother and him. “I feel like my parents treat us as individual people because we’re not the same,” Austin said. “I think it’s a pretty natural thing for them to treat us differently because we’re different people.” Although AJ and Austin’s parents have treated their sons differently for their whole lives, Andy admitted that he and his wife did enjoy dressing their boys in matching outfits. “In the beginning, it was cool to dress them the same, but not so much as they got older,” he said. “After they turned one, my wife and I dressed them differently.” AJ, however, remembers more matching outfits than his parents may admit to. “One time when we were babies, our parents brought us to a wedding and dressed us both in plaid suspenders and bow ties,” he said. “We were pretty spiffy.” AJ has been trying to keep the spirit of “twinning” up ever since.
AJ
“We used to have ‘Twin Tuesday’ where we would both wear the same color shirt to school,” he said, “but after Austin decided to leave for school without me, that ended.” In school, AJ and Austin lead different lives. They both agreed that their school activities accentuate the differences between the two the most. “We’re polar opposites when it comes to our interests and personalities,” AJ said. “In school, Austin is involved with theatre, while I focus more of my time on StuCo and sleeping.” Austin took on a different tone. “I’d say we’re different in the way AJ’s more of a brainy person than I am,” he said. Although the Hurtigs share the same grade, they’ve only shared two classes together in high school. “I haven’t had the joy of having my brother in class until my senior year,” AJ said, “and those two classes are Christian Service and Child Development.” With siblings come rivalries. For the Hurtigs, music and driving are always the subject of debate. “Not to toot my own horn, but seeing as Austin has totaled two cars, I’d have to say I’m a better driver,” AJ joked. Austin didn’t disagree, but he did argue that AJ’s music choices leave a lot to be desired. “I’d say his music choices annoy me the most,” he said. “Ever since my car accident in October, I’ve had to deal with riding to school every morning and listening to his Mumford and Sons CD and rap music.”
"I feel like my Austin parents treat us as individual people because we're not the same." --Austin The Outlet Outlet | 15 The
J.T. Buchheit Outlet Copy Editor It’s not uncommon to see people buried in their phones, frantically trying to update their statuses or beat their high scores on a hot new game. But once people look beyond the surface and delve deeper into the social media world, they may think twice about what they post on social media sites. In October, Facebook topped one billion users, according to Bloomberg Businessweek. Some of these billion users want to keep up on news, some want to socialize and some just want to play games. “I signed up (for Facebook) to see all the drama and to laugh,” said Blake Van Leer, junior. These sites consist of multiple benefits, such as receiving crucial information about upcoming events and dates. They also allow one to contact another more easily. “If there’s something important you need to know and don’t have a person’s phone number, you could communicate through (Facebook or Twitter),” said Gabi Unnerstall, freshman. Social media has also helped people get in touch with old friends and relatives they don’t see very often. “I still keep in touch with friends I went to camp with two years ago,” said senior Abi Bell. “There’s also a theatre group that I knew, and we have a group on Facebook.” Another perk to social media sites is that they can help people be more up to date with current events and trends. “Twitter is my morning newspaper,” said junior Lucas Broeker. In spite of all the benefits to social networking sites, many dangers lurk in the shadows. Some believe the sites are actually making kids meaner and causing diminished values and morals.
“A lot of people can talk trash without having to worry about face-to-face confrontation,” said Josh Brehe, junior. However, some disagree. “I think it promotes people to be sympathetic,” said Tyler Howell, senior. “People say their problems, and other people can help them with them.” Another thought is that social networking sites are weakening a generation’s ability to interact with others in real life. “People are getting more comfortable online and not as good at talking face-to-face,” said Alyssa Bouquet, sophomore. Some people are becoming completely immersed in social media sites, and it is recognized as a legitimate addiction. This is linked to, among other negative attributes, poor performance in school. “I think it has an effect on grades because of the amount of time people spend on the sites,” said Michelle Kenny, teacher. “They neglect personal intimacy with their family and friends.” Despite these notable drawbacks, many people find the lure of web sites such as Facebook and Twitter too strong to overcome. “It’s hard to get away because there’s new stuff to learn about every day,” said Broeker. “Everybody’s got some sort of new problem,” A select few have resisted the temptation to join these sites, have quit or have simply never been interested in joining one. “I quit because I’d rather talk to people face-to-face or not at all,” said Natalie Baker, junior. “I also have more important things to focus on.”
Tips for Safe Posting Be careful when someone offers you some- Don’t post your location online, especially when you are on vacation. The Internet is a hotspot for people who want to break into your house. thing for nothing, such as gifts or money Check every Set your privacy settings to "private" so people you don't know cannot see your information.
month to make Anything you post is on the Internet forever sure the site’s When “friending” default settings people, choose What is a smart password? Use letters, numbers and symbols if poshaven't changed. wisely; if you sible. Use at least eight to twelve characters and don’t make it obvious. When sites reset wouldn’t talk to Students often accidentally give away their email, phone their privacy set- them in person, numbers, school name and other information which can tings, your infor- why talk to them mation is visible to on the Internet? be used to track students even if they think they're safe. everyone. Passwords: make smart ones, change them often and don’t share them. Colleges, universities and future employers are more often checking social networking sites. They are looking for incriminating evidence that could potentially lead to rejection from a job or not being admitted to a university. Employers and universities also have ways of getting your information even when your privacy settings are set to “private.” 16 | The Outlet
T
Would like to wish all Borgia sports teams a great season!
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adiology G R e p r Ca
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Buy One Get One Free Movie Ticket! Valid Mon. thru Thurs.; not valid on Holidays or for 3D or Special engagements. expires January 30, 2012
BLACK FRIDAY Borgia students share
their best
Black Friday Stories. Sarah Holtmeyer Outlet Staff Writer
2012
store muc Jeff R retai the “ are i spen
There is one day a year when it’s acceptable to shop in pajamas at 3 a.m. with a vengeance:
Black Friday Americans everywhere recognize the day after Thanksgiving as the day of shopping mayhem. After pigging out on Turkey Day, some can’t think of a better way to burn off those excess calories than lunging for a great sale on Crock-Pots or jumping for that last Holiday Barbie. Others enjoy Black Friday, surprisingly not because of the amazing sales, but because it’s acceptable to wake early and set up camp outside stores like Wal-Mart and Target to people-watch. On Nov. 23, Americans once again pounded the pavement in search of these highly coveted sale items. Borgia students have experienced this chaotic day and offer their stories and tips for future shoppers.
“This past Black Friday, my parents wanted to go to Wal-Mart to get my brother a flat-screen TV for college. How sweet, right? I just went along to people-watch and check things out. The moment we got in, I saw people charging and ripping at things. I even remember hearing growling. My parents went back to the TVs, which were all wrapped in plastic because you weren’t allowed to grab them until (midnight). All these people were crowded around and they Above, students eagerly shop at Target. had their hands on them (the televisions) and would scream if From left are Claire Korba, Allie Mar- anyone got too close or almost touched their TV. I got bored, quart, Calvin Korba, Corinne Morgan, so I decided to roam around the store. I was walking through Emma Ritter, Marcus Brinker, Neal the chips and soda aisle when I saw something through the Alfermann and Cameron Rolf. rack. It was a stash of things like TVs and toys and expensive things. As I got closer to investigate, this man jumped out and screamed, ‘don’t you touch my -Morgan Dillon, stuff!’ at me. I yelled and ran. sophomore Then a little boy pointed and laughed at me as I ran.”
18 | The Outlet
o’cl and look hav and Dan befo with mom nium The put ripp them with the will was ove cash lot, wen
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e:
ging ale the get ale
f
d
With all the excitement surrounding this day,
stores have begun to open as early as 8 P.M. There is much opposition to this, however. Missouri lawmaker Jeff Roorda is trying to pass a law that would prohibit retail stores to open on Thanksgiving. The law is dubbed the “Thanksgiving Family Protection Act.” Many people are in support of this idea saying holidays are meant to be spent with family, not shopping. “For the past couple of Black Friday shopping trips, we have gotten to Kohl’s a little early. Needless to say, we get bored just sitting in our cars, so we (played) Christmas songs on our car horns. There’s really only one song that is playable on the car horn, which is Jingle Bells. I mean, what is better than Christmas songs at 11:30 p.m. to put people in the Christmas mood? One year we started playing, and then another car -Sydney Piontek, across the “So there I was, standing parking lot sophomore side-by-side with a soccer joined in. It mom and a possible murder suswas a lot of fun!” pect. I was anxiously waiting for ten o’clock to come; my mom sent me on a mission to collect five Crock-Pots for my aunts and uncles, and I wasn’tabout to let her down. I had to keep my guard up because some people looked like they were ready to snatch some Crock-Pots before they were supposed to, which wouldn’t have been fair to those who were patiently waiting. I waited for six hours, and during that time I met new people and new friends. One of them actually turned to me and asked me to be her date to the New Haven SnowBall Dance. Anyway, while waiting for ten o’clock to come, something interesting occurred. Approximately 10 minutes before Black Friday was supposed to begin, I spotted a woman sneakily slithering through the crowd of people with an abnormally large object protruding from her jacket. I couldn’t make out what the object was, but the soccer mom could. In an instant, she pointed her finger and shouted out, ‘she’s got a shark vacuum!’ Suddenly, pandemonium let out. People were upset because she was getting away with it, until out of nowhere came the employees. They chased down this perpetrator and kicked her out of the store. We all rejoiced and cheered, for she had been put to justice. Then when the hour came, time to be friends was over and things became serious. We all started ripping apart the wrappings that encased our prizes. I couldn’t carry all five crock-pots at once, so I would throw them, one by one, across the crowd of people into my cart. As soon as I reached my cart I got out of there. I ran with my cart up and down aisles, fending off the thieves trying to steal my crock-pots. When veering past one of the corners, I mowed over a man carrying a crock-pot like the ones in my cart. I was -Zach Mooney, willing to help this man, until I realized he was the man next to me that I thought was a criminal. I was too terrified that he may be enraged because I knocked him junior, pictured over, so I fled the scene of the accident, never looking back. When I got to the above cashier, it took all but half a minute for her to check me out. When in the parking lot, I loaded my items into my truck and left. The mission was a sheer success, and I The Outlet | 19 went home a champion. I was finally going home with what I went to purchase.”
5
{
Gifts Not to Give This
Students, Teachers WEIGH IN ON THE WORST GIFTS
Joan Roubian
If you wouldn’t wear it, don’t gift it.
“
1Overly Practical Gifts
Not only can you commit a horrifying Christmas-gift faux pas by giving a pointless gift, you can also create the same effect by gifting an overly practical gift. You know the classic “my dad gave my mom an iron for Christmas and she got mad” story? That’s what we mean. Avoid this at all costs! Nothing good can come from getting your mom or girlfriend a scale, boys; Christmas gifts are not meant to be subliminal messages. Unless someone asks, stear clear of gym memberships, scales, irons, vacuums and similar items.
irons
“
teacher
Outlet Tip:
Make sure your gift is age appropriate
Denny Presson
“
senior
My aunt gave me a remote control car. I ended up ripping the antenna from the remote and using it as a pointer. The rest of the gift owns beachfront property in a landfill.
scales
cacti
Trey Johnson sophomore
2
Useless Trinkets
snow globes
One time, my uncle got me a women's swimming suit, then proceeded to ask me if I ever wore it. . . I of course said no.
20 | The Outlet
Mike Kroeker
I received a shirt that was so hideous, I didn't even pretend to like it. I just immediately asked my mom for the receipt. There were a lot of stripes and colors.
Outlet Tip: Give genderappropriate gifts
Outlet Editor in Chief
Outlet Tip:
Christmas
vacuum
}
pictureless frames
Although trinkets are sometimes cute, remember that not everyone has a place for them. The gift you found meaningful for a moment might end up in the back of your friend’s shelf after a week. What a waste! If you find a picture frame, make sure to put a picture in it. That way, the recipient will have a reason to display your gift. We’re not so sure how to make cacti more personalized, so it’s probably just best to avoid those all together.
“
Julie Wilmoth
senior
When I was little, my aunt would get me and my sister Hot Wheels because she didn't know how to shop for girls.
Josh Brehe
“
junior
I got a tiny football ornament with my name on it from my aunt one year. It was disappointing because I wanted an actual football.
4
Coupons
3
Wrong-Sized Clothing
Notice the key words: wrong size. There is nothing wrong with wanting to get someone a new shirt, but please, be mindful when selecting the size. Giving a size too big can be offensive, and giving a size too small is annoying. If you are not absolutely positive about someone’s size, save yourself the embarrassment and select a safer gift
Outlet Tip:
Unless someone specifically asks for school supplies, refrain from Christmas shopping at Office Max.
Who doesn’t love coupons? No one! Who wants coupons for Christmas? Again, no one. As tempting as it may be to gift a book of discounts, save those for a different occasion. Coupons are best used when put toward purchasing a gift, or the cost of dinner. It’s only ever acceptable for grandmas to give their grandchildren books of McDonald’s coupons; admit it, those were always pretty awesome to get as a little kid, but now we should all be on to bigger and better gifts.
Claire Huber sophomore
“
When I was 9, I got a ruler of all the presidents. It was pretty disappointing.
Outlet Tip:
“
AJ Hurtig
senior
Read the fine print on the recipient’s Christmas list.
I wanted a Jedi Qui-Gon action figure, but I got a Tatooine Qui- Gon Jin action figure instead. I was devastated.
“
Brad Heger
principal
I never received a bad gift, but I did give one once. I gave my wife a nice, romantic vacuum cleaner. To be fair, we were young and we needed a vacuum.
5
Re-Gifs or Used Items
It is not, and has never been, okay to give another person your sloppy seconds. Do not re-gift half-empty bottles of nail polish or year-old Halloween candy; it’s gross and inconsiderate. Although re-gifting may seem like the easy way out, we guarantee re-gifting will label you as the worst gift-giver ever. It’s better to give no gift at all than to give something you didn't even want. The Outlet | 21
GPS: Breeding a ‘Lost’ Generation of Motorists Alex Venardos
Outlet Staff Writer
“Turn right at the next intersection. Now take a left and continue for five miles. Slowly come to a stop and continue approximately 500 feet around the next bend. Congratulations; you have arrived at your destination,” directed the generic voice on the dashboard. Global Positioning System (GPS) devices are no strangers in today’s society. Whether they’re built into cell phones or attached to the inside of a windshield, GPS devices are designed to make traveling easier. As their popularity becomes widespread, however, some wonder if the GPS is slowly replacing the ability to navigate on one’s own. George Meyer, senior, has been using his GPS for as long as he can remember. He frequently uses it for long trips and also utilizes the device when he’s lost. “Honestly, I’m terrible with directions and would get lost without it,” he said. Not everyone uses the GPS to the extent Meyer does, though. Some, like senior Danny Hearst, just see a GPS as a device used to get from point A to point B. “It is a device I use to guide myself to locations,” Hearst said. “Sometimes they are annoying to use, but mostly they work fine.” The GPS works well for students like Hearst and Meyer. It provides an easy way to navigate the roads. For others, the GPS isn’t as helpful. Permit driver Michael Ince, sophomore, prefers the navi-
16%
of Borgia students have and use a GPS in their car 22 | The Outlet
gation app on the iPhone over an actual GPS device. “GPS devices like the Garmin are overpriced and bulky,” Ince said. “You can have the same level of navigation using an iPhone or anything with Internet access.” Although it boasts many positives, the GPS isn’t free from glitches. Plenty of people have experienced problems with the GPS, whether it’s a technical problem or human error. “When we had OnStar and were on the interstate, it would tell us to exit and re-exit (the interstate),” said Christine Feldmann, Borgia faculty member. Sometimes these glitches aren’t always the fault of the GPS. These devices must be updated occasionally to ensure 100 percent accuracy. Teacher George McKee said that although the GPS is handy, the updates can be a bit of an annoyance. If users neglect these updates, travelers might find themselves in someone else’s yard. “You do what it tells you to do,” stated McKee. “It creates an addiction.” Although some may share McKee’s view, others disagree. “I don’t believe becoming dependent on a technology like the GPS is a bad thing,” Hearst elaborated. “It increases travel efficiency and gives back the time that would have been lost trying to find your way on a map.” The GPS can range from 80 to 450 dollars for a portable version, while GPS devices built into cars are much more expensive, ranging from 750 to 2000 dollars. Many other people use the GPS feature already built into their smartphones. With the rise of smartphones, the use of the GPS has gone up and will continue to expand in the coming years.
50%
34%
of Borgia students use a of Borgia students don’t GPS feature on their phone use or own a GPS
Cook‘ s Corner Emma Darling Outlet Business manager
Texas Salsa Rojo
d tomatoes matoes (Regular stewe to d we ste le sty n ica The holidays 1 14 ounce can Mex ) n style is unavailable. ) are just around the can be used if Mexica es (Like Rotel Brand. corner, and soon there will 1 10 ounce can tomatoes and green chili be an overabundance of 2 to 3 sliced green onions stuffing, casseroles and turkey. 1-2 cloves garlic minced ice (lime is best.) The traditional foods sound 1-2 tablespoons lime or lemon ju mended.) nal, but highly recom io pt (O s ve lea tro an delicious and mouth-watering ¼ cup chopped cil at first, but after a month of left- salt ntainer. Add the atoes into a blender co m to d we ste m fro tomatoDrain juice overs, many can’t stand the stewed tomatoes, the d Ad e. fin til un op sight of turkey. To escape the rut green onions and garlic. Ch Chop until chunky, but mixed. Add lime juice of repeated holiday dinners, chili blend and cilantro leaves. her spin and serve with tortilla chips. The Outlet staff members offer and salt to taste. Give it all anot
their favorite homemade recipes.
Roubian Family Sarma Recipe
The Leopold’s
Sarma
Texas Rojo Salsa 31/2 cups onion
1 cup jasmine rice
3/ 4 cup olive oil Wilt onions - add 1 cup rice and saute, add 1/2 cup of water and lemon juice - add salt and 1 lemon pepper, all spice, currants, 1/ 2 cup pine nuts and pine nuts. Let cool. Roll 1 tbsp mixture in grape leaves 1/ 2 cup currants (shiny side out) Place in pot, add 1 cup boiling water - sim 1 / 2 tsp. all spice mer for 10 min, or until soft. 30-40 grape leaves
pound lsiced bacon lery 1 cup thinly sliced ce 1 cup chopped onion 1 cup sugar pose flour 2 tablespoons all-pur 1 cup vinegar 1/ cup water 2 1 teaspoon salt 3/ teaspoon dry mustard 4 d new 5 pounds unpeeled re sliced potatos, cooked and 2 carrots, shredded d fresh parsley 2 tablespoons choppe te Additional salt to tas
1/
2
d
German Potato Sala
servn until crisp. Drain, re In a skillet, cook baco t Crumble bacon and se ing 1/4 cup drippings. s y and onion dripping aside. Saute the celer to sugar and flour; add until tender. Combine ter, salt and mustard. skillet with vinegar, wa ens tly, until mixture thick Cook, stirring constan os, bowl, combine potat and bubbles. In a large stir d ur the sauce over an carrots and parsley; po l to taste with additiona gently to coat. Season th ing dish; garnish wi salt. Spoon into a serv e warm. crumbled bacon. Serv
Mama Darling’s
German Potato Salad
The Outlet | 23
Life as we Know It Emily Price
Outlet Staff Writer
Zombies take over. Global war breaks out. A plague annihilates millions. Fires start. Waters rise. Volcanoes erupt. The earth quakes. The heavens rip open. Aliens invade. Asteroids plummet to the earth. The sun explodes. Gravity turns off. The earth stops spinning. Or... life proceeds as normal. All of these are theories for what is to happen on the day the world is supposed to end: Dec. 21, 2012. That ominous date has loomed over the world since the Mayans developed their primitive form of a calendar and neglected to include any dates past 12-21-12. This and many other ancient discoveries have spurred scientists’ and historians’ predictions of the end of the world. This is not the first time the end of the world has been predicted. It was believed the world would end Jan. 1, 2000 because computers would be incapable of handling the new year. Obviously, that prediction proved to be incorrect, just as this 2012 prediction may soon be as well. Some students are scared of this coming day. Some don’t believe anything will happen, and some are ready to face whatever comes. “Honestly, I don’t think (the world) will end because I don’t think Jesus is ready for it to,” said Hannah Clapper, sophomore.
24 | The Outlet
Nate Balducci, senior, hasn’t really decided if he thinks the world is going to end. “I hope it doesn’t,” said Balducci. “I want to continue to enjoy eating doughnuts.” Katharine Mudd, junior, believes the world could very possibly end this December. “I’m leaning more toward yes just because my mom keeps telling me that it will (end),” said Mudd. “She’s a strong believer in apocalyptic stories for some reason.” It cannot be guaranteed that the world will or will not end, and no one will really know until that fateful day. Theories and predictions unsurprisingly spread like wildfire, and some of these have caught hold here at Borgia. Megan Heger, sophomore, believes the world will end because of a zombie apocalypse, while Balducci said the world will end because of “an alien invasion, for sure.” Junior Sarah Geatley, however, had a different idea. “If the world ends, it will probably be because an asteroid strikes,” she explained. Clapper and Mudd thought it would probably end because of a natural disaster, like an earthquake or a flood. Jacob Hoevelmann, freshman, held a more unusual theory. “I definitely think dinosaurs are going to take back over,” said Hoevelmann. “I think they’re out there right now, hiding and waiting until the time comes when they get to rule the world again.”
The end of the world calls to mind that ever-present phrase YOLO. The end of the world emphasizes this motto and leaves people thinking about what they’d regret if their time on Earth were to draw to a close. “My biggest regret would be not spending enough time with the people I loved,” revealed Heger. Clapper too had something deep that she would regret if the world ended in on Dec. 21. “Not getting to live my life to the fullest,” said Clapper. Geatley said she would regret worrying about the little things that would end up not mattering. Balducci said he’d regret not making his bed when his mom told him to. “I would hate dying before celebrating Christmas,” said Hoevelmann. “That’d be my biggest regret.” Students are able to push their regrets aside because many believe that a savior will come if the world were to end. Most believe this savior will be Jesus. Some actually think the Avengers will show up and save the day, but the majority think it will be Jesus. No matter what happens on 12-21-12, it will not be a forgotten date. Maybe it will be remembered because everything happened just like in the movie 2012, or like in the Life As We Knew It or Left Behind books, or like in the show Walking Dead. Or maybe it will just be remembered as that one day when everyone was supposed to die--but didn’t.
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The Outlet | 25
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X- Marks the Spot:
Geocaching 101
Hannah Post Outlet Photo editor
become even more available as a recreational activity. Both through the website or the myriad of geocaching apps, anyone can create their very own geocache. Since 2000, there have been 1.8 million established geocaches and the number is growing. The Outlet staff has created its own geocache for the world to find. To get hunting, visit www.geocaching.com and click on the “play” tab. Search for geocaches around Washington, grab your GPS and join the adventure. Don’t forget to check out our geocache, The Current, to claim a small prize and log your success.
G
one are the days when discovering treasure meant following a black-dotted line to a gaudy red “X.” Throw away the compass and take off that eyepatch. With a little imagination, the typical treasure map has been revamped using modern technology and anyone can get in on the action. Geocaching, termed for the combination of Earth, hiding and technology, boomed into existence in the early 2000s. Think of it as a worldwide treasure hunt with the help of GPS technology. A geocache is hidden at specific GPS coordinates which participants can navigate to find a small treasure. Geocaches come in all shapes and sizes. Sophomore Jodi Willenbrink found hers in an old pickle jar, painted camouflage. “I was on my way to Florida when I found mine,” Willenbrink recounted. “We were at a rest station and my sister had the idea (to geocache). Our search led us to a forest area where we eventually found it inside of a hollow log.” The goal of geocaching is not only to find the geocache, but, oftentimes, to take and leave small mementos. In two of her geocaches, Bethany Ottens, junior, has discovered various knickknacks. “One geocache was a pencil box full of trinkets, and I left a piece of a seashell from Cape Cod there,” she recalled. If the coordinates are followed correctly, insisted Ottens, geocaches are manageable and extremely satisfying to find. With the addition of GPS to cell phones, geocaching has
To receive your prize, search for The Outlet’s geocache, The Current, at www.geocaching.com.
The Outlet | 27
[ THE OUTLET STAFF AWARDS THE SIX MOST UNIQUE CLASSROOMS ]
And the winners Are...
Whether it’s the coldest classroom, or the room with the worst Internet connection, each Borgia classroom has its own unique qualities, good or bad. The Outlet staff has voted, and the results may, or may not, surprise you.
MOST COMFORTABLE CLASSROOM
PATTY RUSSELL COLDEST CLASSROOM “My room gets very hot because it’s above the media center. I keep my room cold because I don’t like being hot, but mostly because I don’t want the kids to fall asleep.”
SPENCER UNNERSTALL 28 | The Outlet
BEST-SMELLING CLASSROOM
MICHELLE KENNY CLASSROOM WITH THE WORST INTERNET CONNTECTION “Latin used to be taught in there, and the ghost of the Latin teacher doesn’t like that there’s German taught in there now. It’s a haunted room.”
SANDY SEISS MOST HUMID CLASSROOM
ERIN SCHMIDT DARKEST CLASSROOM
DANA VOLKMAN The Outlet | 29
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Stepping Out of the Box
Every day, I turn on that small knob in my car and hear the wonderful sounds of dubstep, rap, country, pop and many other genres blast from my car speakers as I drive to my destination. At first, I feel energized, bobbing my head in time with the beats and singing along with “One More Night” or “Gangnam Style.” But shortly after, everything begins to sound the same. Popular radio station Z107.7 plays relatively modern hits, but even those hits become repetitive to the point where they sound like nails on a chalkboard. On another well-known country station (93.7), the music seems to mesh together in one unending song with stringed instruments and southern accents. Most of the time, the station plays the same thing over and over. Don’t get me wrong; “Springsteen” is a great song, but I need some fresh meat instead of all the overplayed summer hits. If radio stations played music with a little variety and originality in the music that didn’t involve sex, drugs or relationships, perhaps all radio listeners would break out of their mainstream bubbles and observe life in a new perspective. On some occasions, when I hear a song I don’t like, such as “Diamonds,” I turn to a different station, and guess what? It’s the same song playing on the different station! I used to rely on the radio for all my musical preferences, but now, not so much. Maybe if the radios wouldn’t play Train’s song “50 Ways To Say Goodbye” for every other song, I would not have a problem. I love that new Taylor Swift song too, but I think I got the idea after hearing her song for the 50th time that she is never going to get back together with that jerk. People want variety and not the same cliché music. Instead
Technology: Replacing Our Brains? Desktop computers. Laptops. Tablets. iPads. iPods. iPhones. Androids. All these technological devices have one major feature in common: they provide quick and easy access to the Internet. These and many other devices helped launch a technological revolution that has drastically changed our society over the past few decades. The problem is this may be making us use our brains less and less. Our world has become heavily reliant upon technology. People use the address book feature in smartphones to remember phone numbers. Photos are now kept in digital photo galleries on computers and in cell phones, rather than printed and stored in a scrapbook. Autocorrect fixes any spelling mistakes made as a person is typing. GPS devices tell us exactly how to get where we want to go. We use Facebook to help remember birthdays, invite people to parties, share pictures, check someone’s relationship status and find out about big events in a friend’s life. In the unlikely case that you can’t find something on your device, the Internet can tell you almost anything else. The search engine Google answers just about any question anyone could possibly have. Need a chocolate chip cookie recipe? Google it. Want to translate “¡Mi ombligo está ardiendo!” to English? Google it. Can’t solve that tough Geometry proof? Google it. Thanks to technology, the solution to almost any question or challenge we face is at our fingertips, especially this year at Borgia. The style of education here has shifted to a much more technological one due to the incorporation of the iPad. We are now always just a few taps away from anything thanks to the Internet. We have begun to develop a laziness and a reliance on our iPads that is a bit frightening. Standardized tests will become increasi-
Janie Rudloff
Outlet Staff Writer
of listening to mainstream music, I listen to music that’s considered “hipster.” Mainstream music refers to the current trending music that people constantly hear on the radio. A few examples of mainstream bands/artists would include Justin Bieber, One Direction, Kelly Clarkson, P!nk, Taylor Swift, Rihanna, Flo Rida, Maroon 5 and Nicki Minaj. These so-called “musicians” are always playing on the radio, which is sickening. It seems like no one cares about stepping outside of the box and finding variety. There are numerous bands and artists with unique voices, radical rhythms and beats that offer a different sound to our mainstream society. These musicians’ music is called “hipster,” which avoids the cliché that mainstream music possesses. It doesn’t mean the band can’t be popular or played on the radio, but the fan-base is significantly smaller. One of my absolute favorite bands that has become my secret obsession is Imagine Dragons. Imagine Dragons is an American indie rock band that pops with its unique instrumental work and edgy sounds. Some of my current favorites are “It’s Time,” “Radioactive,” “Amsterdam” and “Tiptoe.” Grouplove is another American indie rock band which has the ability to make me shout the lyrics and dance around my room. Their song “Tongue Tied” describes the ups and downs of a young couple while keeping the beats dance-worthy and mesmerizing. Innovative music exists, but it just takes a little searching to find the “hipster” bands with catchy, appealing sounds. Listening to these bands will expand anyone’s music repertoire while also broadening perspective. Instead of listening to only mainstream music on the radio, turn up your iPod or CDs, blast these new bands’ music proudly, relish in the moment, and expand your mind.
Emily Price
Outlet Staff Writer
ngly difficult for students because they will have to actually use their brains to remember crucial information rather than rely on technology. Hardly anyone actually writes notes or essays on paper anymore, which could cause penmanship to deteriorate from lack of use. The importance of spelling words correctly isn’t emphasized as much anymore since autocorrect will fix mistakes anyway. Homework problems can be Googled and answered in less than five seconds—a lot less time than it would take to actually figure out the problem. Students can Google theology reflection questions that require deep responses and quickly get a really smart-sounding answer. As a result, cheating has become extremely simplistic. When students take a quiz on their iPads, they can easily flip to the Internet or their notes without the teacher noticing. The screenshot feature on Apple products greatly assists the act of cheating. If you’re taking a quiz on your iPad and you know your best friend has that same quiz next period, why not snap a screenshot and message it to your friend to help him or her out? Life is a lot simpler now thanks to technology. Information is extremely accessible, causing us to let iPads and other technological devices do a lot of the work that our brains should be doing. And though it may seem like the easiest option, in the future, I know we will regret relying so heavily on our technology.
The Outlet | 31
w ie v e R in r Yea
Feb. 10
Adele The wins 6 AvengGrammy ers is released awards
2012 July 27-Aug. 4
43rd Olympic Games in London, England. US finishes with 104 medals.
Michael Phelps becomes most decorated Olympian with 22 medals.
Apr. 11
and becomes the higestgrossing film of 2012.
May 15 Varisty Boys win 2A State Championship by one stroke over MICDS
Borgia makes a successful transition to iPad technology
Oct. 29 Superstorm Sandy makes landfall
Aug.
14
Nov. 30 Coach Dave Neier’s 600th win
Nov. 6
World Ends
President Obama is re-elected
Dec. 21?
Take it to 2013
Leave it in 2012
The Dougie
Gangnam Style
Justin Bieber
Metal Detecting
Constantly Tweeting your Opinion
One Direction
Geocaching
Having an Opinion