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2 | The Outlet
Editor in Chief Connor Voss Business Manager Joan Roubian Photo Editors Brittany Bean Victoria Smith Staff Writers Colleen Baker Emma Darling Chris Holdmeyer Carissa Kulpa Rose Leopold Cody McWay Anastasia Ratcliff Michael Ritter Blake Van Leer Advisor Ms. Dana Volkman 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 Connor Voss, Editor in Chief. Obituary Policy The Outlet will print a feature obituary in the event of death of a student, faculty or staff member of SFBRHS. Advertisement Advertisements are paid for and purchased by companies. They are soliciited by The Outlet staff. Advertisements fund production costs and Web site maintenance. Advertisements vary in prace, depending o nthe size. The Outlet staff can design an ad, if needed. If you would like to advertise in The Outlet, please contact Joan Roubian at: joan.theoutlet@gmail.com
The Outlet fall 2011
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volume 2
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contents
issue 2
features 11 Habitat volunteers build houses,
14 15 16
25
22
community, skills
Seniors open “time capsules” Borgia welcomes exchange students Borgia hunters on the prowl
19 New drum major takes flight 22 “Cowbell man” rings for 40 years 23 Girls of fall kick off football season 32 Lahay leads life of legacy
22
sports 4
Girls’ golf team wins conference championship
7 8 18
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Cheerleaders place first in state Science deparment revamps Record number of freshmen help launch Marching Knights’ season Coach Gildehaus reaches 200th win
news
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4 5
Fundraising buyout helps lower tuition Brinkmann replaces Hertlein as NHS moderator 5 YPPO makes a comeback 7 Borgia institutes new GPA system 8 Senior Claire Rembecki named National Merit Semi-Finalist 10 Staff tests new iPads 12 Students take the stage in new musical theater class
opinion 31
35 35
New dictionary terms define a generation “New Girl” review A test taking generation
special sections: homecoming 24 25 26
Powderpuff prospects In depth with the homecoming court The history of Borgia homecoming
halloween 28 29
Washington’s scariest places Quiz: what is your secret phobia? The Outlet | 3
The Current the source for Borgia’s latest news
Borgia’s Fundraising Buyout Helps Lower Tuition colleen baker
outlet staff writer
Magazines, raffle tickets and calendars may come to mind when thinking of St. Francis Borgia fundraisers. If the thought of selling any of these makes you sick, fear no longer: SFBRHS is now offering an alternative. With a payment of $1,750, families can be exempted from participating in the fundraisers. “It gives people the opportunity to still help out, but not be totally involved,” Borgia President George Wingbermuhle stated. Why is this offered? The average cost to educate a student at Borgia per year is $8,100, but the tuition cost is lowered to $6,350. In order to make up for the loss, the school asks students to assist in school-wide fundraisers. “It would be nice to not have to worry about selling magazines,” Jamie Monroe, junior. stated. So far, 10 families have participated in the buyout. As a result, approximately $17,500 has been raised to be put toward financial aid for students and to lower tuition. The deadline has already passed for the payment, but donations are always welcome.
Mr. Noelker's Bandaids on Parade
Any Borgia student who has taken Honors Bio II or Chem II, or possibly just had Mr. Noelker for homeroom, has heard about Jon Noelker’s extensive stash of bandaids. Paruse the next few pages for a closer look at his crazy collection. Photos by Victoria Smith, Outlet Photo Editor
4 | The Outlet
Girls’ Golf Team Wins First Borgia Conference Championship Schroeder Qualifies for State
colleen baker, blake van leer outlet staff writers
On Sept. 15, the 2011 girls’ golf team made Borgia history. Although all Borgia sports do not officially enter full Archdiocesan Athletic Association play until next fall, the Lady Knights defeated St. Dominic 206-233 at the Franklin County Country Club to win Borgia’s first AAA Conference Championship. “It feels pretty awesome to be the first conference champions and I hope the legacy continues,” said Claire Schroeder, senior. Schroeder’s golf success did not end with the AAA championship: Seniors Katie Maxwell, Whitney Swartz, Kelsie Langenberg and Schroeder competed in Districts after the regular season. Maxwell and Schroeder medaled and moved on to the Sectional 1 Tournament at the Innsbrook Resort Golf Course. Schroeder’s score earned her a place in the Class 1 State Championship, which occurred on Oct. 17 and 18. For Schroeder’s results, check out www.borgianews.com. Schroeder noted that one of the team’s keys to success has been their practice sessions. The team trains four days a week by playing rounds on the course at the Franklin County Country Club. When they are not training, they have fun hitting golf balls on the driving range. Along with practice, the girls accredit their success to their coach, Chip Thompson, part-time Borgia Spanish teacher. “Mr. Thompson is a great coach and we always have a blast,” junior Rachel Brinker said. Whether it be the intense training or spectacular coaching, fans can see that all of the team’s hard work has payed off.
On the evening of Oct. 13, Chet Jankowski’s astronomy class gathered at the Borgia baseball field to take a look at the moon, Jupiter and Jupiter’s moons through telescopes. Adam Schuckman, senior, took these photos of the moon with his telescope.
YPPO Makes a Comeback carissa Kulpa
outlet staff writer
Through the efforts of John Simmons, father of junior Reagan Simmons, Young People’s Political Organization (YPPO) is up and running once again at Borgia. “YPPO has been around for about 25 to 30 years, but it went away for about two or three years,” said John Simmons. “Just last year it started back up again.” To teach YPPO members about government and public policy, Simmons recruits local political figures to speak at their monthly meetings. Local Republican leader, Robbie Brouk, spoke at their Oct. 5 meeting. Approximately 20 students were in attendance. Carrie Leach, first-year club member, said, “I joined YPPO because I am interested in politics and, not to mention, it looks good on a resume.” In future meetings, Simmons plans for the YPPO members to take part in mock debates concerning controversial political topics. Sophomore YPPO member Emily Grahl looks forward to taking part in these debates. “I like my arguments,” Grahl joked. Although YPPO currently does not sponsor any schoolwide activities, the club is brainstorming ways to raise money for a military charity to become more involved with the community and school. According to Simmons, YPPO also plans “to hang up some posters with facts related to government on a display board outside the cafeteria” to help raise students’ political awareness.
Brinkmann Replaces Hertlein as NHS Moderator Taylor Nadler
outlet staff writer
After decades of hard work and planning, theology teacher Kathy Hertlein has stepped down as Borgia’s National Honor Society (NHS) moderator. “I have been director for over 30 years,” said Hertlein. “Emily Brinkmann was interested in taking the job, so we talked it over and decided that it will bring new energy and focus to the club.” Although Hertlein resigned as NHS moderator, she was sure to leave the club in good hands, with an assurance that she was always willing to share her seasoned expertise. Brinkmann, history teacher, has assumed the role and is excited to take on the challenge. Both Brinkmann and Hertlein decided that this switch was best for both themselves and the school. “It was an easy transition,” said Brinkmann. The 2012 NHS officers, Claire Rembecki, Connor Voss, Kelly Breckenkamp and Rachel Diener, learned the ropes last year from Hertlein and are trying their best to maintain her high standards. “We are fine, but it’s just the hassle of doing a lot of things and being very cautious,” said Claire Rembecki, NHS President. “It was very helpful for the previous officers to leave us notes and tips.” Although under new leadership, NHS will carry on as it always has. “We will continue to concentrate on our four main ideas: scholarship, leadership, service and character,” said Brinkman. However, Brinkmann noted that NHS plans to take on a few extra fundraisers to bring in enough money to award its yearly scholarship. “We usually organize a football dinner, but, because of scheduling issues, we might have to replace the whole thing with a different type of dinner at a different time,” Rembecki stated. NHS also plans to sell Schultes doughnuts before school on late-start mornings to bring in revenue for the scholarship. The club includes 58 students who meet monthly in the theater. NHS officers and Brinkmann look forward to a successful year.
The Outlet | 5
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Grade Point Alteration Affects GPAs Anastasia Ratcliff Outlet Staff Writer As college admissions offices become more and more selective, additional stress is being put on grade point averages (GPAs). St. Francis Borgia Regional High School recently made the decision to alter the grading scale to benefit students. Previously, an A- on the Borgia grading scale equated to a 3.667. Since the beginning of the 2011-12 school year, an A- now weighs in as a 4.0. “An A- is still an A, but previously it hadn’t been treated as such,” explained Dr. Brad Heger, SFBRHS Principal. “It is a low A, but an A nonetheless.” Heger says a lot of scrutiny and thinking went into the change. The idea was discussed thoroughly with staff members, parents and even some students. “The old scale put our students at a slight disadvantage,” said Heger. “It made our students appear not as academically successful or competitive as surrounding schools. The new scale levels the playing field and allows our students to have more equal footing.” The SFBRHS Class of 2015 will be the first class to have their entire GPAs calculated, based on this new scale. For the current sophomores, juniors and seniors, the new grading system will not retroactively change their GPA. “I really like the new scale, but I wish it would go back and affect the A-s I had,” said senior Kelsie Langenberg. “My GPA would be higher and I could qualify for more scholarships.” Heger explained that going back into the system and recalculating students’ previous GPAs would require a lot of time and money. He also expressed that when students enter Borgia, they are agreeing to the terms of the school, which include the grading scale. “When students come to Borgia, they agree to follow and honor the rules that are listed in the agenda,” said Heger. “The agenda acts as a contract between the school, the students and the parents. It would be a violation of contract for the administration to go back into the files and change a student’s grade to be based off a scale they didn’t originally agree upon.” While the new scale promotes higher academic achievements, Heger stressed that a number on a scale should not be students’ primary concern. “Grade points are a really poor attempt to summarize all different types of work in a class,” said Heger. “Rather, students should focus on what they are learning.”
Varsity Cheerleaders Win State Title Emma Darling
Outlet Staff Writer
“Now performing: the Borgia Knights!” Once their name had been announced, the varsity competition cheer squad had only three minutes to prove that they were number one. After hours of anxious waiting, the squad found out they had done just that: the Borgia varsity cheerleaders won the state championship for the first time in the history of Borgia cheerleading. The cheerleaders competed Sunday, Oct. 22, at the Hearnes Center at Mizzou. Their routine was filled with big smiles and confidence and backed by hours of long, hard practice. The competition squad won the judges’ hearts with perfect stunts and tumbling skills. In preparation for the competition in Columbia, the squad worked hard for several months to perfect their routine. They attended tumbling classes, called extra practices and constantly went through the motions at home. After completing their routine and the announcers began announcing awards, the squad hoped for the best. Every time “Borgia Knights” wasn’t called, anticipation grew amongst the cheerleaders. Finally, when Republic was announced for second place, the squad knew they were the state champions. The cheerleaders almost fell over from excitement. “There are no words to describe the feeling,” said sophomore Andrea Feldmann. “We were shocked and it was one of the best feelings in the world.” The Borgia cheerleaders blew the rest of the competition out of the water, beating the second place squad by 34 points. “I’m very proud of the girls,” said coach Sandi Gildehaus. “It takes a lot of time to be 100 percent committed to making it to State and winning.”
The Outlet | 7
Rembecki Named National Merit Semi-Finalist
Rose Leopold Outlet Staff Writer Senior Claire Rembecki recently received the title of “National Merit Scholar Semi-Finalist,” an honor based on scores from the Preliminary Statistic Aptitude Test (PSAT), as well as grade point average, SAT scores and essays. Rembecki is one of the 16,000 students in the United States to earn this title. If she is named a National Merit Scholar, she will have a share in $46 million worth of scholarships. Needless to say, Rembecki “kind of freaked out” when she found out. Rembecki “unofficially” learned the news when she received her PSAT scores last year. “Mrs. McGowan was busy talking about the benchmark score for National Merit from last year’s tests. I saw that my score was a good 10 or 15 points higher,” she said. “But I didn’t officially figure out until September, when Mr. Wunderlich received the paperwork from National Merit.” Each state provides semi-finalists according to the percent of high school graduates (in the U.S.) who come from that state. The qualifying score to be a National Merit Semi-Finalist in the class of 2012 was a 213 in Missouri; the highest score is a 240. Rembecki is applying to many prestigious schools, including Yale, Stanford, Vanderbilt, Washington University, St. Louis University and possibly Notre Dame. If she becomes a National Merit Scholar, her chances of getting into these colleges will greatly increase. (Yale and Stanford are both in the top ten schools for recruiting National Merit Scholars.) However, Rembecki noted that colleges are already noticing her personally. “A lot of colleges started sending personalized letters to National Merit Scholars- to students that they see as ‘perspectives,’”
8 | The Outlet
she said. “The first letter I got specifically to me as a NMS was from Northwestern in Evanston, and many more are coming in.” Rembecki will continue college visits, filling out applications, and keeping up her 3.986 GPA until next spring when 8,300 students will be announced to the media as National Merit Scholars.
Science Department Revamps Emma Darling, Taylor Nadler Outlet Staff Writers This school year, Borgia’s science department revamped its curriculum. Previously, freshmen had the option to take Survey of Science or Advanced Biology to fulfill their science requirement. Before freshmen registration, the department decided to eliminate the Survey of Science class and substitute Biology I in its place. Freshmen are now enrolled in Biology I or Advanced Biology. Next year, an additional change will include sophomores enrolling in Conceptual Physics, a brand new class, that will cover the “basics,” such as the earth, electrical currents, chemistry and scientific methodology, but will definitely have more math coverage. “The depth of knowledge will increase, because of the extra math (involved in the class),” said Spencer Unnerstall, biology teacher. The Science Department Professional Learning Team (PLT) as well as the administration agreed that the course changes are for the better. “This decision is best for the maximum exposure to the content that might be on the ACT,” Unnerstall added.
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Bring Your own tablet Borgia Says so-long to heavy backpacks and Hello to E-Books
Joan Roubian Outlet Business Manager On Sept. 14, faculty members were supplied with brand-new Apple iPad 2s. For the rest of the school year, the faculty will work together to smooth out the kinks and errors with the new system. Wingbermuehle, a proud owner and eager endorser of the iPad, is embracing the upcoming changes. “I’m ready and excited for the tablets,” said Wingbermuehle. “It will push the way we teach our students toward the future and everyone will have the world at their fingertips.” Along with the multitude of information available to Borgia students comes a slight relief to parents’ checkbooks. Wingbermuehle said that fees for books and consumable paper goods, currently averaging $450 per student, will be cut in half. Along with these fees, however, will come the cost of the tablet. The type of tablet they purchase, however, will be the students’ choice. “We’re currently calling this BYOT: bring your own tablet,” said Wingbermuehle. “Every student doesn’t necessarily have to have an iPad. If a student sees an Android tablet at Wal-Mart for $159, by all means get it!” The administration plans on having a limited number iPads available for students who cannot afford their own tablets. However, students will not be able to bring these iPads home. “The only real disadvantage I see to this system is that some students don’t have Jonah Leykam, sophomore, tries to figure Internet at home,” said WingermJudy Kandlbinder plays on her new out the future technology at Borgia. uehle. “But, I don’t think it will be a iPad 2. The faculty received these Sept. 14. big problem because the school has Internet which allows them to download the apps that they would need.” Over the summer, Borgia made advances in the Internet to allow for the ease into the tablet system. An estimated $45,000 thousand dollars was invested into making the Internet more powerful. After the revamp, Borgia’s Internet is now capable of supplying 1,000 users with a powerful connection. Wingbermuehle added that they are planning to further the Internet capability over summer 2012. These upcoming changes will make Borgia’s Internet connection even faster. Although the switch from textbooks and notebook paper to touch screens and keyboards sounds “cool” to a lot of students, there is more behind the administration’s decision to make the switch. “When I was in school, we read a textbook, did our homework, then took a quiz,” said Wingbermuehle. “I graduated in the 1960s. It’s now 2012 and we’re still doing the same thing. It’s time for a change.” He also added that this is the direction that education is headed toward. Many universities made the switch to this method as soon as it was available to them. As a college prep school, it’s important to get students ready for the changes college will bring. As of now, a lot of the specific details are not concrete. As the faculty furthers its trial into the tablet system, the specifics will be planned out accordingly. “There will always be nay-sayers,” said Wingbermuehle. “But anyone who really looks closely at this system will realize it’s the road education is headed. We’re excited and I am ready.”
10 | The Outlet
Connor Voss Outlet Editor in Chief
F
our years ago, a local teenager named Blake fell out of his deer stand while he was hunting. The accident confined Blake to a wheelchair for the rest of his life. Blake eventually adapted to his wheelchair, but his house did not-- the stairs, bathroom appliances and low electrical outlets, among other things in his home, posed challenges for Blake. When word of this reached the Habitat for Humanity of Franklin County, a chapter of the nation-wide nonprofit organization that builds affordable housing for people in need, the service group knew they had found their newest project. Franklin County Habitat took on the task of building a wheelchairfriendly home for Blake and his family in June and anticipate that they will move into their new home in Gerald, Mo, by Christmas, which will bring the efforts of over 150 volunteers to fruition. This feat was especially rewarding for English teacher Lindsay Riegel, who serves on the board of directors of the Habitat for Humanity of Franklin County as the chairmen of the volunteer committee. It was her responsibility to gather 10 to 15 volunteers to work on the house each Saturday. “I loved seeing how each group on Saturdays had its own dynamic, a different kind of leadership,” said Riegel. “It was fun to get feedback from each job site and to see how our inexperienced efforts really built a house.” The completion of the house brought Franklin County
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Habitat’s tally up to 11 houses built in 10 years. Senior Joe Enger, a five-year Habitat volunteer, has helped to build seven of these houses. “It’s pretty cool to see each house when it’s finished and know you literally built it from the ground up,” he said. Although Enger takes pride in the work accomplished, he never forgets the bigger picture. “The way I look at it, it’s our responsibility to use what privileges we have to help others,” he said, “and since I don't have money to give, I can always give my time.” Not only has Enger accrued a multitude of service hours in return for his time, but a variety of new skills. “I'm doing a different job almost every time (I volunteer),” he said. “One day I showed up and I spent the whole day framing. And until that day I did not know what framing was. The next day I came, and I hung siding. It's a good deal because I get to learn how to do all these things that I'd never know how to do otherwise.” Although he is a frequent volunteer, Enger noted that, like most Habitat volunteers, he is by no means a professional construction worker. To guide volunteers, Habitat staffs about one skilled worker for every six unskilled volunteers. Habitat accepts volunteers of all skill levels, so both Enger and Riegel encourage all Borgia students to try their hands at building houses. “I’ve always enjoyed Habitat because I can actually see how my work is helping the community,” said Enger. “Everyone should come out and give it a shot.”
The way I look at it, it’s our responsibility to use what privileges we have to help others.”- Joe Enger, senior Since June, over 150 volunteers have worked to build a home (pictured right and left) in Gerald, Mo., for a paralyzed teenager. The Outlet | 11
Students Take the Stage in
New Music al Theate r Class Emma Darling outlet staff writer
B
right lights, a big stage and much to learn. For the first time in history, St. Francis Borgia Regional High School has its very own Musical Theater Class. For the past few years, Tim Buchheit, speech teacher and theater director, and Sue Bright, music director, had discussed the idea of a Musical Theater Class. Their idea finally materialized after the staff approved it at a faculty meeting last school year. This class teaches students about dancing, singing and perfecting acting skills. “Musicals are always very popular,” said Buchheit. “Now students can mix theater classes and music classes together instead of having to choose just one.” Over the course of the semester, the students in the class will put together a fulllength musical. During the second week of December, students will perform the musical, Godspell. There will be one evening performance for parents, friends and theater-enthusiasts to view their “class project.” While putting together the musical, students have had the opportunity to work on singing ensembles and to learn more about stage work. Their assignments include rehears-
ing their casted roles of Godspell, and, as they progress into learning choreography, the students will have to memorize the steps they are assigned. Brooke Blythe, sophomore enrolled in the class, said that she likes the musical, Godspell, because it can be presented differently depending on how the cast and director adapt it. Aside from learning their lines and perfecting their dance steps, Musical Theater students shouldn’t expect much homework, except a “character analysis” here and there, Buchheit said. Experience is not a necessity when enrolled in this class. “It’s interesting to see how some students are more experienced than others,” said Buchheit. “It’s a good thing to have a variation of experiences.” The 22 students enrolled in the class, who divide their class time between the music room, Buchheit’s room, and the theater, try to live by Mr. Buchheits words of wisdom, “Be ready to come out, participate and have some fun!”
"Be ready to come out, participate and have some fun!" -Mr. Buchheit
12 | The Outlet
Christian Sullivan and Tyler Howell rehearse in the new musical theater class.
Godspell Cast List: Christian Sullivan as Jesus Christ
Adam Bowman as Judas
Tyler Howell as John the Baptist (Everyone else in the class as themselves.)
Photos by Victoria Smith, Outlet Photo Editor
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Seniors Open Their Own 'Time Capsules'
Taylor Nadler Outlet Staff Writer Have you ever thought about how much you have changed over your high school years? Thanks to senior advisor Rosanne Snider, one group of students saw this change firsthand. On their first day of high school in August 2008, Snider asked the members of her advisement to write letters to themselves to be opened on their last, first day of high school. There were two parts to the letter the freshmen wrote to themselves: a questionnaire that asked questions like their favorite color or food-- things to help Snider get to know her students better. The second part of the project involved writing themselves a letter about their expectations and goals for high school. Snider worked hard not to lose these letters, putting them in a sealed envelope that read, “DO NOT OPEN UNTIL AUGUST OF 2011.” She then placed the envelope in her locker for safe keeping. On their first day of advisement of their senior year, Snider’s advisees were confused to see letters turn up on their desks. Snider enjoyed seeing her seniors’ faces when they realized what they were. “At first, they were surprised and then they realized they had completely forgotten (about the letters),” chuckled Snider. “Then a few of them read what they wrote down for their expectations for high school and said, ‘Nope didn’t do that.’” This class of 16 students was the first to participate in Snider’s “time capsule” project. “Getting my letter back made me feel like a little kid on Christmas morning,” Ryan Brinker, member of Snider’s advisement, joked. Snider hopes to use her idea again in her future advisement classes. She looks forward to seeing her students’ reactions and learning about their goals and expectations. 14 | The Outlet
On Aug. 17, Mrs. Snider’s senior advisement opened letters they had written to themselves on their first day of advisement as freshmen.
Seniors Reflect on How They Have Changed Since Their Freshman Year: “I’ve focused less on school and worried less on the little things.” -Jake Pezold “My priorities have definitely changed, but I did reach the goals I set.” ones I set.” -Whitney Swartz
“My goals haven’t stayed the same. I have higher expectations now and want to excell more.” -Brady Jasper
Discovering A Whole New World:
Carissa Kulpa Outlet Staff Writer
Borgia Welcomes Foreign Exchange Students
Some of Borgia’s students have traveled over 10 hours to get to school-- foreign exchange students, that is. This year, Borgia welcomes exchange students from Germany, Spain, Japan and Ukraine to Washington, Mo. Read on to learn how these visitors are adapting to the American culture.
Alina Kramchaninova
Nerea Basanez
Basanez, 15, participates in Borgia girls’ golf and wishes to play basketball and soccer, as well. Basanez enjoys Borgia because of the people, sport selection and school activities. “In Spain, we don’t have anything like Homecoming. I’m excited!” she said.
Kramchaninova is a 15-year-old junior from Donbass, Ukraine. Kramchaninova likes Borgia because of the challenging classes. Her favorite classes here include calculus, biology and English.
Ida “Max” Masayuki
Anna Stark
Stark is a 16-year-old junior from Frankfurt, Germany. Stark is an only child and she loves to play softball at Borgia.
From Oowada Saitama, Japan, Masayuki, 16, loves to play electric guitar and tennis in his spare time. “A difference between Japan and America would be the fitness level,” noted Masayuki, “People here are much more active.” The Outlet | 15
Borgia Hunters
Blake Van Leer (sophomore) with his pheasant, Justin Horace (sophomore) with his turkey, Andrew Beckerman (junior) with his turkey, Andrew Frein (sophomore) with his squirrel, Dustin Kampschroeder (senior) with his deer, Neal Alfermann (sophomore) with his turkey.
on the Prowl Blake Van Leer, Joan Roubian Outlet Staff Writers
Frein puts much effort and hard work into For many, November is a time squirrel hunting. He goes hunting once a characterized by colorful leaves, fresh week during the winter, but isn’t as active air and a big turkey dinner on the last during the summer months. Although Thursday of the month. However, for Frein mainly hunts squirrel, his curiosity some Borgia students, November marks makes it impossible for him to limit his the beginning of their favorite season-hunt to one variety of game. hunting season. Although the game and “On one of my hunts, I got bored the weapons are continually changing, and heard turkeys in the background. I students remain interested. kept listening and then found the group A hunter since the age of 11, of turkeys,” said Frein. “I followed them Andrew Beckerman, because junior, enjoys what I liked “I love the adrenaline rush, hearing hunting has to offer. watch “I love the the turkeys gobble, and seeing ing them. adrenaline rush, them come toward me.” They the early start and -Justin Horace were the outdoors,” said amazing Beckerman. in size and looked beautiful.” Beckerman hunts once a week Justin Horace, also a sophomore, during bow season and all weekend during prefers hunting turkeys and doves over the hunting season. He said he enjoys beother types of game during the hunting ing at deer camp-- the land where huntseason. ers go to wait for their prey-- during all “I love the adrenaline rush, hearseasons. ing the turkeys gobble and seeing them While at deer camp, he expericome toward me,” Horace said. enced a shock of a lifetime. An unexpected Horace, a hunter of seven years, guest, unbeknownst to Beckerman, snuck said that he hunts turkey every weekend up on him and left him with a lasting imthey are in season. Approximately three pression. years ago, Horace shot his first turkey. “I was sitting in my deer stand Like most first moments, Horace recalled when a bobcat came through the woods,” this experience with a smile. said Beckerman. “My heart started racing “My dad had fallen asleep and I and I stayed still. I watched as it passed was calling by myself. I had called back and (I) was glad that it didn’t see me.” and forth with this turkey for 20 minutes. In the winter, sophomore Andrew
All of a sudden, he (the turkey) came out in the open, so I woke my dad,” said Horace. I gave my dad the call and grabbed my gun. ad called him closer, and when the turkey got within range, I took the shot and killed him. It is really special when you call in your first turkey at 12 (years old).” Also not limited by the variety of game he hunts, Horace said that he hunts doves two to three times a year. However, shooting a dove is not the same as shooting a turkey. “My dad and I were in my grandpa’s freshly harvested corn field. After the first shot went off, the field erupted with doves. When they caught a glimpse of the decoy, they (the doves) came right to it,” recalled Horace. “We started shooting and had to reload three times before the birds stopped flying around. It was like the shooting didn’t even phase them.” For those of you who look at November as the month with the big meal at the end of it, take a closer look at what goes into the golden-brown turkey in the center of your table. What may look like a delicious meal to most may actually be the best catch a hunter’s ever had. But, for all you hunting enthusiasts, check out the calendar below. It’s probably a safe bet to guess that you probably already knew that schedule, but it never hurts to check your dates. Gobble, gobble!
Hunting Season Calendar • November 5-6 -First Youth Season • November 12-22 -Regular Firearm Deer Season • November 23 til’ January 15 - Bow Season
• December 17-27 - Muzzle Loader Season • January 7-8 - Second Youth Season
Record Number of Freshmen Help Launch Marching Knights’ Show
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Junior Denny Presson is piloting Connor Voss the band as the new drum major Outlet Editor in Chief (see opposing page for details),
18 | The outlet
and David Mundwiller, veteran The Marching Knights seniors band director, is assisting Bright as a volunteer were shocked to see so many new faces when they instructor. arrived at band camp in July. Mundwiller wrote the music and drill “I got off the bus and I didn’t know half for 2011 marching show, which he adapted from of the people there! It was crazy,” said senior, Bri a concert piece entitled “Twelve Seconds to the Hopkins. “There were so many freshmen!” Moon.” Nineteen freshmen joined the Marching The challenging show, which depicts Knights ranks this year— the largest class of the progression from the Wright Brothers’ first freshmen in recent memory. flight to Neil Armstrong’s first steps on the moon, “The freshmen class is a very exciting is like no other show the Marching Knights have class and one who is going to promote the band in ever performed. For the first time, the show a positive light,” said band director, Sue Bright. includes speakers and microphones to accentuate Bright also feels the upperclassmen the soloists, as “have done a well as recorded good job of showsound effects. ing the freshmen The show also the ins and outs incorporates of marching”-- a many fresh ideas role more imand props, such portant than ever as a plane that when 19 of the 43 flies across the members of the field propelled band are brand by a garage door new. opener along a “The wire suspended idea of having 10 feet in the air. a bigger band Although the is great, but adding show was cleared for The Marching Knights perform nineteen people at once flight, rain delayed the their contest show at half-time means that half the band band season’s takeoff. at a recent football game. has never marched beOn top of their debut fore,” said Luke Schriewer, performance occurring two weeks later than anticijunior. “We’ve had to do lot of teaching to pated, the band’s first competition was scheduled get everyone up to par.” a week earlier than in past years. This gave the To help make all the newcomers feel like Marching Knights a much smaller window of time they are part of the band family, the upperclassto perfect their show than usual. men have also undertaken a “band unification” “It would have been nice to have put the initiative, implementing bonding activities like show on the week it rained, but that’s the hand we “Sonic Thursdays,” when band members meet at were dealt,” Bright said. “(To make up for this), Sonic after school for slushies and tailgating. the kids have worked harder than most bands dur The freshmen have done their part to ing the season.” unite the band as well. Their hard work made the 2011 season “Sarah Holtmeyer gets the trophy for one for the record books: for the first time in most enthusiastic freshman,” said Hopkins. “She, Marching Knights history, the band ranked high along with a few other freshmen, even decorated enough to advance into the Finals round of the the band hallway with streamers and ribbons Park Hills Marching Festival on Oct. 15. before our first competition.” “We were so shocked,” said Hopkins. In addition to all the new members, the “Making finals was a great end to my marching Marching Knights acquired new direction this career.” season.
New Drum Major Takes Flight A profile of the “Outstanding Drum Major” who led the Marching Knights to the Finals at the Park Hills Marching Festival for first time in Borgia history
joan Roubian
Outlet Business Manager
“Sparkle, hut!” laughed Denny Presson, new Marching Knights drum major, about his favorite command, which he adapted from “atten, hut!” to mean “smile!” Presson, junior, assumed the position of drum major at the end of the 2011-12 school year when two-year drum major, Matt Riley, graduated. For those who don’t know, a drum major is the “leader” of the band. Presson’s job is to conduct, which means that he keeps the beat of the music. Anyone could conduct, but it takes an “outstanding” drum major to get into the music and really lead a band. Presson has picked up right where Riley left off, winning “Outstanding Drum Major” at his first competition leading the Marching Knights. At the Sullivan band competition this past September, Presson was judged on how well he led the band and how into the music he was. “I scored 184 points (at the Sullivan band competition),” said Presson. “Someone else had 156 points, so I won by about 30 points.” Presson can thank the Drum Major Academy (DMA) for his success. In mid-June 2011, Presson attended DMA in Arkansas. He spent five days, from 6 a.m. to 10:30 p.m., learning the components of what it takes to be an outstanding drum major. “You have to be loud, willing to lead and able to yell at people when it’s necessary. I haven’t had to yell at anyone yet, but I will rip apart a kid if I have to,” Presson said, jokingly. Presson was chosen at the end of the 2010-11 school year by Sue Bright, band director. As the leader, Presson is Bright’s go-to person and is continually putting
more and more hours into shaping the way the Marching Knights perform. “No one else actually wanted to do it,” said Presson. “I thought I could do it pretty well, so I gave it a shot.” Originally a saxophonist in the marching band, Presson is now more musically involved than ever. He said that he really enjoys being so involved with that musical aspect. “I like being able to get into the music,” said Presson. “It’s also a lot easier to get into music when you’re conducting it instead of playing it.” Along with the outstanding drum major title, Presson is deserving of the best-dressed award. He can be seen at every home football game in varying outfits. During the half time show, “12 Seconds to the Moon,” he wears an aviator costume. When the band plays pep music in the stands during the football games, he wears a white tuxedo. “Drum majors wear different things,” said Presson. “It’s mainly so people can distinguish the drum major from the rest of the band.” Expect to see Presson in his fly outfits for the next two years conducting the Marching Knights. Although his drum majoring career is at its beginning, he is rapidly developing the qualifications of an outstanding drum major. He plays his role well and always remembers to “sparkle, hut!”
How to Throw a Four Count Toss
A visual tutorial provided by SFBRHS color guard member Riann Rikard
Step One Step Two Step Three Step Four
Photos by Brittany Bean, Outlet Photo Editor
The Outlet | 19
Friday Knight lights
• Cowbell Man P.22 • Coach Guildehaus’ 200th win • The girls of fall p.23 20 | The outlet
coach Gildehaus reaches 200th win Blake Van Leer outlet Staff Writer Dale Gildehaus, Borgia icon and head coach of Borgia’s Varsity football team, is having a great season. After stacking up Borgia wins for 25 years, Gildehaus hit one of his most important benchmarks on Sept. 16: his 200th win. “The 200th win is a milestone in my coaching career, but I don’t keep up with the records like other coaches do,” said Gildehaus. Gildehaus loved that his 200th win was at home. His 200th win set a winning precedent for the season: Gildehaus has led the team in a remarkable 8-0 run-- a feat Borgia Football has not accomplished since the State Championship season of 1993. “Coach is always fired up and is a person to look up to,” said Aaron Neier, a senior football player, of his coach. Gildehaus is “all about” developing his athletes, not necessarily winning all the time. He asks for dedication and respect from his players, and, in return, gives his players the same. Gildehaus wants his players to learn how to win and lose with grace. He hopes that Borgia Football will teach his athletes how to tackle challenges, as well as opposing team members. First and foremost, however, before being athletes, Gildehaus wants his players to be students. “Their education comes first,” Gildehaus said. “Then football.” Gildehaus was once in the same position. From 1965-69, he was a Borgia student and member of the football Knights. Years after graduating, Gildehaus came back to coach the team, relieving his old high school coach of the job. Gildehaus is one of only four head coaches who has coached Borgia’s football team-- a statistic that Gildehaus believes has helped Borgia develop the great football program it has. Gildehaus and the team have set a goal to win Districts this year. The team is taking it one step at a time and are working towards their goal, giving 100 percent at all of their practices and camps. However, their goal seems more and more attainable with each win. Gildehaus feels he improves each day with the team. At each practice, the team works on their mistakes and certain assets of the game that need improve,emt. Gildehaus said he hopes he not only teaches the team about football, but helps them in many ways off the field. He instills in his players the need to make make sacrifices, and the idea that other things in life are more important than football. At practice, the team talks about ways of life, education and what is important to them. The Knights are in the midst of a dream season, but one goal still looms in the future: Districts. Whether the team achieves this goal or not, Aaron Neier is proud of the season they have played thus far, and thankful to have such a great coach. “We have many well-rounded athletes and Coach has the spirit to take us to the end,” said Neier.
Photo by Brittany Bean, Outlet Photo Editor
The Outlet | 21
Borgia’s Biggest Fan
Rings for Over 40 Years Chris Holdmeyer Outlet Staff Writer It’s a cool fall night and fans are filling up the stands. The student section is going crazy after another Borgia touchdown. Above the roars of crowd, everyone can hear the lone cowbell. Ringing that lone cowbell is one of Borgia football’s biggest fans: Charles Varni or, as students may know him, the “Cowbell Man.” Charles Varni, or “Charlie” as his friends call him, was born and raised in Alabama-- the state he considers the biggest football state besides Texas. He was a running back for his high school football team in northern Alabama. As a kid, he never had a professional team to cheer for so he cheered for the good old Alabama Crimson Tide, or any South Eastern Conference (SEC) team. When Varni first moved to Washington in 1968, he watched Borgia games out at the city park and Washington games at their stadiums-- whomever happened to be playing at the time. In the early 1970’s, Varni moved back to Alabama, but came back to Washington after a few years. On his return trip, he picked up what would become his most treasured item -- a cowbell. “I still remember when I bought that dang cowbell for seven dollars at a Antique store in Mississippi” Said Varni. “It is a genuine cowbell.” He said that ringing a cowbell at football games is not unusual in his native state. It is a big tradition in the two big football states Texas and Alabama. “When I was at the Orange Bowl, when Texas and Alabama played each other, those dang Texas fans rang a cowbell the whole game. Back at that time I thought it was really annoying,” Varni laughed. He also mentioned that he tries to avoid being a nuisance to fans. “I always try to sit with the band or near the student section,” he said. He recalled one time during a playoff game when he wasn’t supposed to ring the bell, that some people around him egged him on -- so he rang it. Some officials came over and told him if rang the bell again they would take it away from him. He told them he would rather leave the stadium rather than give up the bell because it meant too much to him.
Charles Varni rings the Football Knights to victory
22 | The outlet
Another story Varni likes to tell about his cowbell is the time he took it to the Mizzou football game when they retired Brock Olivo’s number. “When I saw Brock there and I rang it, Brock said, ‘Oh Mr. Varni’s here!’” Varni recalled. “It meant a lot to me.” Of all the years Varni has watched Borgia football, one year has really stood out to himthe 1993 State Championship year. Varni attended every game that season, a feat he has only accomplished twice. (The second time being last season.) The quaterback of the ‘93 team was Kent Skornia, but the real star in Varni’s eyes was Brock Olivo. “Brock was just a good all-around player,” said Varni. “He sparked that team to become what they became.” Charlie pleaded with Brock to go to the University of Alabama, but instead Brock chose the University of Missouri-Columbia. Varni rode the bus with the band to the ‘93 championship game in Springfield because he was a member of the Music Association. When looking toward the future, Varni said that Borgia has always had a good team, great spirit and their fantastic chemistry. Varni predicted that this year’s team has the potential to be better than last year’s team. Varni’s thoughts on the game of football are similar to the former Alabama football coach Bear Bryant, and former Packers coach Vince Lombardi: “I believe that good values are taught and shown in the game of football. This game brings valuable life lessons to the boys playing the game, and the people watching the game.” When the fans go silent and the lone cowbell rings, we should turn and thank the guy who has cheered for our football team for over 40 years, our school’s number one fan: Charles Varni, the “Cowbell Man.”
Anastasia Ratcliff Outlet Staff WRiter Managing the Borgia football team is lot more work than it may appear. It involves trampling, broken fingers and heaving lifting,. Seniors Abby Landwehr and Abby Noelke have undertaken the enormous task of managing the team. They prepare for games almost as intensely as the players. Milkshakes are a pregame necessity, according to the managers, along with a decent amount of sleep and proper nutrition. “We prepare by eating a good dinner the night before,” said Landwehr. “It is also crucial that we get a solid eight hours of sleep, so we are well-rested and ready to go.” It is necessary for Lanwehr and Noelke to stay in peak physical and metal condtion. Lugging the huge water coolers up to the field is a task reserved for only for only the fittest managers. Along with the water, the managers also have to ready the walkie talkies, the first aid tools and football equipment. Noelke and Landwehr are mentored and inspired by 12-year-old Gus Kleekamp, a seventh-grader at St. Gertrude School, who has been the water boy for the Knights for “10 years.” “Being managers “We’re obsessed with him,” gushed Noelke. “He’s our boss.” allowed us to experience Being a manaer doesn’t come Borgia football on a whole without its difficulties; during the first game new level,” said Landwehr. of he season, Neolke sustaineda serious injury. “I was throwing a football with one of the guys, and he threw it so hard it broke one of my fingers,” Says Noelke. “Dr. Chalk looked at it, and the next day I had to have my class ring cut off because my finger was so swollen.” Landwehr and Noelke continue to be major assets to the Borgia football team. Players, supportive fans and outstanding managers continue the Borgia tradition. Photos by Brittany Bean, Outlet Photo Editor The Outlet | 23
Position: Left Tackle
Abby Landwehr
“They don’t call me Balboa for nothing.”
Position: Lineman
Kaitlyn Brehe
“Mad brain skills”
2011 Powder Puff Preview
Mackenzie Haddox
Position: Quarterback “Shock ‘Em”
Meet the MVPs of the 2011 Powder Puff Match-Up. Pack the bleachers on Oct. 23 for the showdown between the Classes of 2012 and 2013. Gametime is 5 p.m.
Position: Quarterback
Position: Center
Betsy Alfermann
“Got that long toss”
“Crazy snapper” Kelly Piontek
Juniors 24 | The Outlet
Seniors
Position: Water GIrl “Nobody is getting heat stroke up in here”
Hannah Post
Meet the 2011 Homecoming Court Joan Roubian, Emma Darling Outlet Business Manager, Outlet Staff Writer
Can’t live without: My friends and family Obsession: Harry Potter Best part of Homecoming: Getting to spend the entire weekend with my friends, from the game to the dance to powder puff. Favorite quote: “For every minute you are angry, you lose 60 seconds of happiness.” -Ralph Waldo Emerson
Jessica Diermann I can’t live without: Music Obsession: Pigs Best part of Homecoming: Getting ready (for the dance) with my cousins. Favorite quote: “I don’t give a flying leap at a rolling donut, just tomahawk the ball!” -Coach Stan Westhoff
Kimberly Patke Can’t live without: Chocolate milk Obsession: Harry Potter and speaking in a British accent. Best part of Homecoming: Float building and eating a filling dinner before the dance. Favorite quote: “Jim- this scented candle which I found in the bathroom represents the eternal... burning of competition. Or something. Kevin- It smells like cookies. Jim- Yes it does, my friend. Yes it does.” -The Office.
Jodi Hellebusch
Can’t live without: Music
Can’t live without: The outdoors
Obsession: Wilco
Obsession: Zebra Cakes
Best part of Homecoming: Dancing Favorite quote: “There are no small ideas, only small people.”
Joe Enger
Best part of Homecoming: Dancing with all of my friends. Favorite quote: “Live the life you love and love the life you live.” -Willie Nelson
Phil Viviano
Can’t live without: Family and music Obsession: Jack Johnson and my ukuleles, Luna & Lono. Best part of Homecoming: Observing the envy radiate from people who wished they had my WBDM (white boy dance moves). Favorite quote: “Hanging on is easy; when you’ve got a friend to call, when nothing’s making sense at all - You’re not the only one who’s afraid of change. -Jack Johnson ( “Losing Hope”)
Can’t live without: My friends or videogames with my bros. Obsession: Football-- watching, playing, coaching Powder Puff. Best part of Homecoming: Eating, dancing, and partying with my classmates. Favorite quote: “How would I describe myself? Three words: Hard-working. Alpha male. Jackhammer. Merciless. Insatiable.” -Dwight Schrute
Can’t live without: Food
Can’t live without: Wimpy’s Obsession: Cheeseburgers Best part of Homecoming: In all honesty, this will be my first time going (to Homecoming). From what I hear, there are snacks so I’m looking forward to that and the after-party. Favorite quote: “Sometimes I wake up and think, ‘Dang, I’m good.’” -Joe Bitzer
Nick Wehner
Obsession: Hot wings Best part of Homecoming: Tina (Krissi) Fitzpatrick Favorite quote: “Ugh! You Guys! Come on. Guys stop it!” -Krissi Fitzpatrick
Joe Rhyne
Photos by Brittany Bean, Outlet Photo Editor
Can’t live without: Mountain air, night swimming or barefoot running. Obsession: Octopus/bad animal jokes. Best part of Homecoming: the dance? Favorite quote: “All I can be is me, whatever the heck that is.” -Bob Dylan
Erin King
Can’t live without: Food Obsession: Books and volleyball Best part of Homecoming: Last year my mom finally let me wear volleyball shorts under my dress. I just liked the security of being able to wear spandex. Favorite quote: “Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” -1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
Aaron Neier Krissi Fitzpatrick Can’t live without: Ketchup Obsession: We the Kings and Jersey Shore Best part of Homecoming: Getting the chance to express myself through dance. Favorite quote: “Eating fried pickles was a life-changing experience.” -Snooki
Ted Boland Kelly Breckenkamp The Outlet | 25
Taylor Nadler
outlet Staff Writer It was fall of 1970, and the captain of Borgia’s football team would soon choose who would be crowned the Homecoming Queen. Since there was no homecoming king or returning king to actually decide who the queen was, during half-time the captain would choose the lovely lady. After much deliberation, Dave Neier chose Pat Sowa as Borgia’s first ever Homecoming Queen. Fourteen years later in the fall of 1996, Borgia’s first Homecoming King, Adam Holt, was crowned by the senior class. “It was hard to decide since the game was mostly on your mind, but it was still a great honor to be that important,” Dave Neier, Borgia teacher and coach, explained. Back then, high school students’ Homecoming attire was very different than today’s slim and chic styles of dress. Most girls wore dresses with a vest, while some wore a skirt and a shirt and vest -- essentially church attire. The boys simply wore khaki or black pants and a white shirt with a tie. The girls skirts were no longer than the uniform ones that we currently wear. Today, the ladies get all dolled-up and pay a fortune for their hair and nails while the women back then whipped out the hairspray and let it loose on their hair. “It was no fashion show,” chuckled Stan Westhoff, who went to school during this time of “fashion.” Like today, students celebrated “Homecoming Week” with the dance and the parade, but back in the 70s and 80s the school held a huge bonfire. “The guys didn’t like to dance, so we would sometimes sneak down to the bowling alley and play pinball,” Westhoff recalled. During their time of partying, the Westhoff noted students at SFBRHS didn’t quite understand the actual meaning of the word “homecoming” was. It wasn’t like prom or “anything too special.” To them, it was purely a chance to hang out with friends. Any guesses as to what next century’s Homecomings will look like?
Homecoming Court 1996
Homecoming Court 20 10
26 | The Outlet
Check out all the Homecoming pictures from this year at www.borgianews. com!
“We had a huge bonfire (and) a snake dance throughout town” -Judy Kandlbinder
“Really cool, I always enjoyed it. (I) was voted homecoming king” -Andrew Eggert
“A great honor” -Dave Neier
“Our float didn’t get finished, the kids made me into the paper mache dummy” -Stan Westhoff
The Outlet | 27
PECIAL:
what's your secret phobia?
A. Doing the same thing as every other Friday night B. Partying it up with my peeps! C. Eating D. Hunting reindeer
2. 3.
What’s your biggest pet peeve (out of the following)?
A. Things that aren’t even. Why can’t we all be the same height? B. When people have to study. I mean, it’s only school. C. Waiting in line at Six Flags; it takes forever! D. Stalkers
5. 6.
You love math and order. Isn’t it terrific that our eyes are the same distance from our noses? Oh, and you’re planning on naming your kids Bob and Hannah someday.
symmetrical things)
What’s your favorite look to wear around the house? A. Business suit. Hair parted down the middle. No accessories. B. Footy PJ’s! C. Shorts D. Summer clothes. I can’t stand winter.
What would your dream phone be (out of the following)?
A. As long as it looks uniform and doesn’t break, I’m okay B. Definitely a bright orange one! C. A mini one D. Whatever. I just hope it’s not a Christmas present…
if you answered... tly A's... tly B's... m os m os Asymmetriphobia (fear of non-
if these haunted places don’t creep you out, take this quiz and find out what does!
Mageiricophobia
(fear of being serious)
Party on! You’re a crazy party animal with one goal: having fun. Sometimes it’s important to remember to slow down a bit. But never give up your spirit!
tly C's... m os
Hippopotomonstrosesquippedaliophobia (fear of long words... Yes, we’re serious.)
You can’t stand long words or phrases. Do we really need 26 letters? Just remember, things don’t always have to be simple.
tly D's... m os Hagiophobia
4.
A. Probability and Statistics B. Honors Introduction to Literary Studies C. P.E. D. Human Anatomy and Physiology What kind of hair do you hate the most? A. People who only have hair on one side of their head B. Normal looking hair. Go goatees! C. Nose Hair D. Long Beards
You spend your Friday nights…?
Z!
1.
What is your favorite subject (out of the following)?
QU I
(fear of Santa Claus)
Ahh chimney stalkers! Isn’t the idea of an old man climbing down your chimney bad enough WITHOUT him “seeing when you’re sleeping” and “knowing when you’re awake”?! Just don’t ruin it for the kids. The Outlet | 29
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New Dictionary Terms Define a Generation Katelyn Schwoeppe outlet web editor When most people crack open a dictionary, it is to figure out how to spell a word like antidisestablismententarianism (a political statement against the disestablishment of the Church of England) or maybe the definition of the word “finicky.” (If you’re curious, “finicky” is synonymous with “fussy.”) Students have always had a love/hate relationship with and the dictionary, especially when it seems like no one uses half of the words in it these days. Is it because English is progressing and leaving old, outdated words behind? Or has our generation dumbed-down the English language? No matter where your opinion lies, one thing is for sure: the dictionary is starting to document the words of our generation-- the kind of words that would make Mrs. Russell cringe to see in one of her students’ papers. However, these words are the vernacular of the people, so why not put it in the big book of words? Here is just a short list of some of the newcomers to the 2011 dictionary. Tweet a chirping note or a post made on the Twitter online message service
Fist bump a gesture in which two people bump their fists together (as in greeting or celebration)
Jeggings tight-fitting stretch pants for women, styled to resemble a pair of denim jeans.
Social media forms of electronic communication (as Web sites for social networking and microblogging) through which users createonline communities to share information, ideas, personal messages, and other content (as videos)
Boomerang child a young adult who returns to live at his or her family home especially for financial reasons Helicopter parent a parent who is overly involved in the life of his or her child Parkour the sport of traversing environmental objects by running, climbing or leaping Noob a person who is inexperienced in a particular sphere or activity, especially computing or the use of the Internet
Woot (especially in electronic communication) used to express elation, enthusiasm, or triumph Robocall a call from an automated source that delivers a prerecorded message to a large number of people Retweet a reposted or forwarded message on Twitter:traffic spiked quickly and contained a mix of retweets and original posts
The Outlet | 31
Lahay Leads a Life of Legacy
Emma Darling
Outlet Staff Writer
  The  man  behind  the  harmonica  at  Mass.  The  man  always  in  the  stands  at  Borgia  foot- ball  games.  The  man  driving  the  bus  for  students  to  and  from  school.  We  all  know  and  love  him.   Mr.  Steve  Lahay  has  taught  at  St.  Francis  Borgia  High  School  for  32  years  and,  for  him,  every  day  is  an  adventure.  Lahay  is  very  involved  in  the  Borgia  com- munity.  He  drives  the  bus  for  stu- dents  who  do  not  live  close  enough  to  school,  a  job  that  comes  with  Lahay’s  favorite  perk-Â-  the  power  to  give  detentions  to  kids  who  “mess  around.â€?   During  school  hours,  Lahay  teaches  Weightlifting  and  Physical  Education  and  hopes  to  teach  Drivers  Ed  next  summer.  Lahay’s  favorite  part  about  working  at  Borgia  is  getting  to  teach  multiple  generations  of  one  family.  He  also  appreci- ates  how  the  students  and  parents  of  Borgia  are  very  involved  through  academics  and  sports.  Lahay  started  his  teaching  career  at  Washington  Junior  High  in  1973,  although  he  was  cut  along  with  other  teachers  as  a  result  of  a  tax  levi.  After  working  at  Washington,  he  went  to  St.  Peters  Grade  School  in  St.  Charles  for  two  years.  From  1976  to  1977,  Lahay  worked  for  the  Emmaus  Home  assisting  with  physical  education.  Following  the  Emmaus  Home,  he  worked  at  Lindbergh  for  half  a  year  then  Our  Lady  of  Loretta  Grade  School  for  another  half  year.  In  1978,  Lahay  worked  DW %RUJLD *UDGH 6FKRRO DQG ÂżQDOO\ LQ FDPH WR %RUJLD +LJK School.  In  addition  to  being  a  Physical  Education  and  Weightlifting  WHDFKHU /DKD\ OLNHV WR NHHS ÂżW E\ ULGLQJ KLV ELNH DURXQG WRZQ  “I  ride  my  bike  around  40  to  60  miles  a  week,â€?  said  Lahay.  “I  think  its  best  to  ride  in  the  evening.  It  can  be  relaxing.â€?  Lahay  has  been  part  of  a  Thursday  night  bowling  league  at  Town  n’  Country  Lanes  around  four  years.  Lahay  has  three  daughters  and  two  grandchildren,  Connor  and  Gavin.  He  likes  to  attend  Connor  and  Gavin’s  sporting  events  when  given  the  chance.   When  students  get  to  leave  school  on  Friday,  Lahay  is  still  on  the  job.  On  weekends,  Lahay  works  for  G.E.M.  Central  States,  a  re- served  driving  system.   Lahay  drives  as  far  as  colleges  and  airports  and  enjoys  the  job  because  he  is  able  to  drive  “good  equipment.â€?   He  has  met  many  interesting  people  as  a  driver,  and  another  perk  of  the  job-Â-  “I  don’t  have  to  pay  for  the  gas,â€?  Lahay  laughed.  “It  is  all  provided  by  the  company.â€?   From  working  at  Borgia  for  32  years,  Lahay  acquired  wisdom  WKDW DQ\ JUDGXDWH ZRXOG ÂżQG EHQHÂżFLDO Âł6FKRRO LV D UHDOO\ H[FLWLQJ important  time  in  life.   Be  appreciative  of  the  school  we  have.â€?  said  Lahay.  “Many  graduates  from  here  have  gone  on  to  do  great  things,  and we  are  one  of  the  top  high  schools  in  this  nation.â€? 32  | The Outlet
To the sound of a loud alarm 5:05 a.m. clock, Lahay rubs his sleepy Lahay wakes up! eyes and starts the day quick. He takes a fast shower and rushes off by car to St. An-� thony’s Parish in Sullivan. If he’s lucky, he has some time to grab a bite to eat, preferably a McDonald’s Sausage Egg and Cheese McGriddle. Lahay gets the school bus ready and departs from St. Anthony’s at around 10 minutes to seven. His route typically spans from St. Anthony’s to Stanton Post Office, St. Clair, Immacu-� late Conception in Union, and finally to St. Francis Borgia High School around at 7:45
6:30 a.m.
Lahay gets ready for school!
Lahay does his job at Borgia where he teaches Physical Edu-� 8:00 a.m. ‘til 3:00 p.m. cation and Weightlift-� During the day! ing. When the day is done Lahay is off again by bus to drop off more students. After his day of work is done, Lay-� hay likes to relax 5:00 p.m. til’ 10:15 p.m at home and watch Lahay “hits the hay�! C.S.I. Miami.
. . . .
Lahay’s Morning Route
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Coddling a Generation of Test Takers Joan Roubian
Outlet Business Manager
“Life is not divided into semesters. You don’t get summers off and very few employers are interested in helping you find yourself.” –Bill Gates. As one of the most successful people of our time, Gates speaks the truth about education. In a society where instant answers via Google are the norm, emphasis on time-consuming hard work is declining rapidly. Being coddled is for babies, and will get high school students nowhere in real life. Due to the “coddle effect,” many students tend to just get by until the test is over. This leads into a phenomenon that is taking my generation by force: students are no longer learners, they’re test-takers. ACTs, SATs and college planning deserve much of the blame when it comes down to the way students and teachers treat schooling. Many students think that if they don’t get above a 30 on the ACT, they’ll never amount to anything. That’s absolutely absurd. However, it’s easy to understand. ACTs and SATs are reasonable because colleges need a standardized way to fairly judge their applicants. However, what’s not reasonable is the melodramatic attitude that coincides with these tests. They’re just tests that you can take as many times as you want. Relax. While standardized tests are as avoidable as taxes are, other reasons for a test-taking generation are not. The idea that every student has to do well in every single class is ridiculous. Let’s be honest, there are a lot of teenagers who simply do not care about their grades. Is it fair to the students that always do their homework and study to be babied into things because of peers’ lack of motivation? Don’t think so. For teachers, the only way they can get some kids’ attention is by saying, “this will be on the test.” As soon as the word test is thrown into play, the interest level soars. In a way, teaching to test was probably just a threat some teachers used. But, as students got progressively lazier, it became a staple. This isn’t to say all teachers are trying to make students into test-taking robots. I’ve had amazing teachers that somehow make concepts like the circumference of a circle or the definition of euphemism stick. But, on the other hand, I’ve had teachers who don’t really teach; they just give me tests based on study guides. Teachers face a lot of criticism. Their success is based upon how well students do in their classes. However, since students are being brought up in a manner that allows them to squeeze by without understanding basic concepts, some upper-level teachers tend to comply with the coddling method. If they don’t, and I’ve had plenty of teachers who don’t, it makes them look bad. That’s totally not fair. Teachers should be responsible for educating students in a subject, while students should earn their grades. If a student is given all the proper tools, it should not be difficult to score well on a test. It’s not fair to blame a teacher for failing a test. Hence, teachers have to coddle students into taking a test. Being coddled in high school is not going to put students at
The Input Outlet staff members sound off
an advantage when they head off for college. Higher-level learning will be a rude awakening for those students who allow themselves to simply “get by.” Real life doesn’t provide study guides. Real life doesn’t allow you to score an A and then forget everything you’ve learned. Take it from Bill Gates, he learned, then applied concepts, and now he’s a billionaire.
Rendezvous with the ‘New Girl’ in Town Katelyn Schwoeppe Outlet Web Editor If you need something new to spice up your Tuesday nights, try tuning into Fox’s newest half-hour comedy, “New Girl,” at 8 o’clock p.m. “New Girl” stars Zooey Deschanel and the pilot episode sets the story of a girl named Jess, who is looking for a new place to live after a difficult break-up. When she finds an apartment with three roommates on Craig’s List, she finds herself in a man’s world. Jess soon moves in with Nick, Schmidt, and Winston. The boys soon find, however, that they got more than they bargained for when Jess cries incessantly over the break up and monopolizes their television, repeatedly watching the film “Dirty Dancing.” The boys rally to get Jess back on her feet and learn she a has quirky personality and an affinity for awkwardly singing the end of sentences. The plot alone seems anything but original, but the flawless way Zooey captures Jess’s odd personality makes the show a standout and Zooey Deschanel a huge topic for conversation around the water fountain. The boys, Shmidt who is on the hunt for a new woman, Nick in denial after his girlfriend breaks up with him, and Winston home from playing over seas basketball, are not shoved to the background by any means: all three come with their own flaws, quirks and golden qualities as they become Jess’s knights in shining armor time and time again. This show is for ages 13 and up for some crude humor and language and will appeal to girls as well as guys. This show deserves 4.5 of 5 stars.
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How Much is Too Much? Make up A C o m m e n ta r y b y A n a s ta s i a R a t c l i f f O u t l e t Sta f f W r i t e r
Alright ladies, makeup is an art form and, like all great artists, one must take great control and care when creating a masterpiece. Going to extreme lengths when applying makeup can lead to less than desired affects: Hello, clown face. If you are applying your make up with a putty knife, perhaps you’ve had too much. Sunken black raccoon eyes are another atrocious sign that it is time to set down the eyeliner and seek counsel at the Macy’s makeup counter.
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BODY SPRAY Using fragrances is like containing farts- disaster strikes if one allows a nuclear bomb to detonate. While it is important to maintain a healthy relationship with your “AXE” can, it is also wise to observe some limits. An intelligent person knows that a spritz or two of your favorite cologne or perfume is more than adequate. If Mr. Westhoff can track you down by your scent, in order to give you a detention, perhaps it's time to lay off the potent fumes.
Jersey Shore
Oh lookie! Snookie! Nicole Polizzi and her band of buffed-up gym rats have caused a situation. We all have our guilty indulgences, whether it be chocolate or kittens, but lately the addiction to Jersey Shore has reached unhealthy levels, kind of like Snookie’s orange tan. While everyone may have their own limits, here are some good indicators that, perhaps, you need to ween yourself from the show: 1. If your gelled-hair can support the weight of your books 2. If you use your toaster to tan 3. If you order a ‘How To’ manual on fist-pumping
Hair
Bieber Fever has taken its hold, not only in the hearts of girls, but on the heads of men and boys around the country. An inevitable effect of shaggy hair is the flea twitch. This occurs when one must repetitively twitch their head back and forth in order to keep over grown hair out of the eyes. Not only is this style impractical, but it is also slightly dangerous and should only be sported by those who enjoy giving themselves whiplash. So gents, if your hair looks like a sloppy wet mop, perhaps it is time to sharpen the kitchen sheers, or consider an
The Outlet | 37
...And The Winner Is... The Borgia Car Awards
MICHAEL RITTER OUTLET STAFF WRITER
The Clunker Car Award Erin King 1993 Toyota Celica “I’m not embarrassed to call him my car. I love him no matter how junky he is.” “It’s a pretty cheap car considering the bike rack that it has is worth more!”
The DJ Car Award Aaron Piontek 1998 Ford Taurus “I’ve got a Jackhammer subwoofer and amp which brings me to a grand total of $500.” “I have recently had problems with the rear view mirror falling off from the vibrations.” Photos by Brittany Bean, Outlet Photo Editor 38 | The Outlet
Most Recognizable Car Award Jacob Haskins 2007 Toyota FJ Cruiser “I believe the reason why it is so recognizible because of its bright color and Lego form.” “I like to jazz it up during Christmas and put lights around the roof of the car.”
The Borgia students’ and faculty automobiles fill the parking lot on a cold, rainy, autumn day.
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UNNERSTALL TIRE CENTER, INC. 1 EAST FIFTH ST. 5TH & JEFFERSON STS. WASHINGTON, MO 63090 (636) 239-5494 1-800-730-5494 KEITH & TOM UNNERSTALL Photos by Brittany Bean, Outlet Photo Editor
38 | The TheThe Outlet Outlet | 39| 39
Owling and Planking Around Borgia