Log
The Northmen’s
Friday, September 24, 2010
Renaissance Festival pg. 7
Oak Park High School
Issue 2, Volume 46
Teachers share spotlight By: Kayla Smith Lifestyles Editor There are many fall traditions students look forward to when beginning a new school year, from Friday night football games to the homecoming dance. Along with these commodities comes the fall musical. Every year, a mass of students audition for a part in the school musical. This year, however, students weren’t the only ones facing the pressure of an audition. For this year’s musical “Hairspray,” two roles will be played by members of the teaching staff, science teacher Bill Dennis and debate and forensics teacher Arianne Fortune. When the names were posted for the roles in the musical, several students were angry with the decisions. “We didn’t have stu-
dents to play those roles,” said choir director Chris Droegemueller. “Those two roles were a little more controversial than some of the students can handle.” Students understood. “Upon hearing the explanation as to why there are teachers in the show, I think it’s the safest and most viable option for us to perform this show in a high school setting,” said senior Derek Byrne. Byrne, as a cast member, understands why it’s happening and favors the concept. He aslo said he believes it will make the show more interesting. “Their parts are hilarious,” Byrne said, “and having them played by teachers will only add to the comic affect.” Some students were not so thrilled. Giving
Senior Sterling Robbins and debate and forensics teacher Arianne Fortune read lines during musical rehearsal on Thursday, Sept. 16. “I am enjoying working with the students.” Fortune said. Fortune was cast as Velma Von Tussle, the mean, rude mother of Amber Von Tussle, played by Rachel Perkins. Photo By: Kim Green, Photographer
these roles to teachers led many to say it takes away parts that could be given to students who really want them. “I understand the student concern and the fact that there was one less student part,” Dennis said, “but at the same time it’s something I wanted to do.” Dennis knows the
entire situation can be a touchy subject, but he said the cast has been supportive and everything about the musical is great. “It gets a little weird, because I’m just not wearing my teacher hat when I’m there.” Dennis said. Despite the weird feelings and the teachers
Classes help students ace the test By: Kayla Smith Lifestyles Editor No. 2 pencil in hand, brain stuffed full of information and forehead sweating, student after student will sit down at a desk and proceed to take many tests in their high school career. Among these important tests was the ACT. To prepare for such a crucial test, many students take part in ACT preparation classes. This can be a semester-long class or weekly night courses. “It’s really helpful to be able to study with others to help motivate yourself,” said senior Stephanie Mora, “instead of not studying at all.”
Studying hard during class, students in communication arts Callie Smothers ACT prep class prepare for the up-coming Saturday, Dec. 11 test. Photo By: Dylan Kinder, Photographer
see where our starting point is,” said junior Rachel Stewart. This class teaches all the same things the night courses do but does not require the same amount of personal time. In this class, Smothers teaches a lot of test preparation, and helps students learn strategies and apply them. “A lot of the strategies I have found useful I didn’t even know about when I took the test,” Smothers said. Smothers said her goal was every kid that comes into her class room learns strategies
and increases their ACT score. “We just set a goal on how many points we want to improve our score by and we are learning different test strategies for the different sections of the ACT,” Stewart said. This class isn’t offered at many schools in the district. Schools offer after- or beforeschool help. “We have the opportunity to impact kids during [the] school [day] that some of the other schools don’t have and I hope we take advantage of it,” Smothers said.
In the west parking lot by the soccer field, three bald cypress trees blow in the breeze. One donated by the soccer team, the other two in memory of past team members killed in a car accident. The class of 2010 and the 2010 Booster Club purchased a tree recently. On the other side of the school along the drive, an autumn blaze maple grows. Trees like these are planted all around the 62 acres of school campus. “I think it’s cool that [the tree plan is] turning out to be a living history of the school,” said science teacher Connie Beeck, who is in charge of the tree plan. “When I
look at it, all that history is there.” The tree plan started three years ago under the direction of Beeck. “When we split from Staley, we started doing improvements to the inside of the school, but no one really looked outside,” she said. Beeck teamed up with Paradise Nursery and the Missouri Conservation Department to get the project going. “It’s basically just a campus beautification plan to aesthetically and environmentally improve campus,” Beeck said. With the tree plan, students and staff can purchase a variety of trees for $225 with a fiveyear warranty. The tree can be donated for organizations, or in honor or
memory of someone. “It’s a wide variety of groups that have participated,” Beeck said. “I think we’re around 50-60 and another 40 or so in the plan.” Students were supportive. “It’s good to plant trees,” said freshman Teona Daviscannon. “I guess it’ll make it look better ‘cause it’s good to see new plants grow.” Freshman Fletcher Hoke also likes the idea of planting trees around campus. “They’ll look good,” Hoke said. The 13 different types of trees available are spread out around campus. “Certain trees have certain spots. That’s because you don’t want too many of one type because
By: James Coleman Writer Three students and an alumnus recently experienced their house burning, including Oliver, Kelsey and Dylan Drambour, and Ashlee Wells.
Wells
Sunday, June 6, at 7:02 a.m, Wells was in her bedroom when her mom woke her up. As she was running in the hallway all she could see was black smoke. “I didn’t really have one first thought. I had a million things going through my head,” Wells said. “I was scared, worried and nervous.” Once she had a chance to finally stop, and think, she really just cared about her mom, dad, two sisters, sister’s friends and brother. They all got out safe. “I still have flashbacks of my house literally being eaten by flames, but I know everything if there’s a virus it could happens for a reason,” wipe out all of our trees,” Wells said. Beeck said. The worst part for Those who purchase her was everything she trees as part of the tree plan get to choose the location of the new tree. Information regarding placement was provided by the Missouri Conservation Department. All of the trees used are from Paradise Nursery. Some organizations choose their locations to be meaningful for their members; for example, the Marching Northmen and its parents association purchased trees near the football field. “We try to plant in the fall, they tend to do best then,” Beeck said. If interested in donating a tree, see Beeck for a form and brochure.
Tree plan provides ‘living history’ By: Aggie Rieger Editorial Editor
With dedicated teachers and accepting students like cast member Stompoly, high hopes were forming for this year’s fall musical. “I think it has the potential to make the show better,” Stompoly said, “I just hope the problems get worked out, so we can come together as a cast.”
Fire destroys possessions
Preparation for the ACT Mora was among many students taking part in night courses to gear up for this test. These night courses meet twice a week during the month of the test date at Faubion Methodist Church at N. Troost and Vivion. They cover every section of the ACT: math, science, reading, English and writing. “I really think that the class is important.” Mora said. “If you’re really serious about getting score on the ACT.” Another option is to enroll in the semester-long class. This class takes place only in fourth block on B days and was taught by communication arts teacher Callie Smothers. “So far all we have done is take a practice ACT to see what subjects we need to improve in more and to
interacting with students in a different setting, both Fortune and Dennis were stepping up to the plate. “At first I was very upset, but as time’s gone on, those teachers are very dedicated and determined to the show and the rehearsal process,” said junior Alex Stompoly.
and her family lost. They lived in their home for eight years and all the memories they have, were unforgettable. “This was one of the most horrible things that have ever happened to my family and I,” Wells said. “Never would I ever wish this upon anyone.”
Drambour
The Drambours returned to their regular routine, getting ready for sleep on a Monday night. “I was ready to be in a deep sleep,” Kelsey said. They were woken at about 2 a.m. by their older brother, Oliver. Kelsey woke up to flames in her window and had no reaction. “Didn’t even grab glasses, two to three minutes would’ve grabbed more,” Kelsey said. The fire started in the back porch and was right by Kelsey’s room. “First dramatic thing, Dad had cancer but nothing like this,” Kelsey said. The family and two dogs escaped safely.
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Softball bonds Oakies Junior Abbey Robinson steps up to the plate on Monday, Sept. 20. Robinson said her favorite part of being on the softball team was, “just interacting with all new people, having new friends, and people to look up to.” Photo By: Kaylan Ballard, Cartoonist
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Friday, Sept. 24, 2010
page sports
Change in class, change in competition
A Month in Sports Cross Country Conference-Saturday, Oct. 9 Football Friday, Sept. 24, 7 p.m. vs Platte County at DAC Homecoming - Friday, Oct. 8, 7 p.m. vs Winnetonka at DAC Friday, Oct. 15, 7 p.m. vs St. Joe Central at DAC
By: Aggie Rieger Editorial Editor
Girls Golf Conference-Monday, Sept. 26
Three years ago when Staley opened many changes took place at the school. Not only did we lose students and faculty, OP lost its athletic classes in many sports. “Well, being in a lower class, it’s not as difficult to win a State championship as before,” said wrestling coach Tim Rupp. “There are fewer great teams in lower classes.” Wrestling went from a Class IV to a Class III this year. “Classes are based on the number of students [at a school]. We lost a lot of boys [and girls] that could have played ball for us,” said athletic director Keith Ross. When the student population went down, so did the school’s athletic class. However, it
Boys Soccer Monday, Sept. 27, 5 p.m. vs Winnetonka at DAC Thursday, Sept. 30, 5 p.m. vs Liberty North at DAC Wednesday, Oct. 6, 5 p.m. vs NKC at DAC Thursday, Oct. 7, 5 p.m. Oak Park Tournament at DAC Saturday, Oct. 9, Oak Park Tournament at DAC Monday, Oct. 11, 5 p.m. vs Kearney at DAC Thursday, Oct. 21, 5 p.m. vs Grandview at Northgate Softball Friday, Sept. 24, 4 p.m. vs Staley at Oak Park Boys Swim Friday, Sept. 24, 4 p.m. NKCSD Invitational at NKCSD Natatorium Saturday, Sept. 25, 4 p.m. NKCSD Invitational at NKCSD Natatorium Wednesday, Oct. 6, 4 p.m. vs LSW/Pembroke Hill at NKCSD Natatorium Wednesday, Oct. 13, 4 p.m. vs Staley/Winnetonka at NKCSD Natatorium Wednesday, Oct. 20, 4 p.m. vs Sedalia/Liberty North at NKCSD Natatorium Girls Tennis Saturday, Sept. 25, 8 a.m. Sub North Tournament at Oak Park Tuesday, Sept. 28, 3:30 p.m. vs Platte County at Oak Park Thursday, Sept. 30, 3:30 p.m. vs Liberty at Oak Park Volleyball Dig for the Cure - Monday, Sept. 27, vs Winnetonka at the DFS Tuesday, Sept. 28, 5:30 p.m. vs Kearney at Oak Park Tuesday, Oct. 5, 5:30 p.m. vs Platte County at Oak Park Tuesday, Oct. 12, 5:30 p.m. vs Grandview at Oak Park
Replacing the flags from last year, the five new pennants represent the new district athletic placement. Photo By: Courtney Kelley, Editor-in-Chief
took a while for the class to change, meaning that for two years OP teams played against larger schools with equally larger teams. “It’s a positive change for sure,” said tennis assistant coach Bryan Edinger. “We’re on an equal playing field, [for a while] it wasn’t fair.” Many agree the change will benefit the school’s sports teams. “I think they know our shot at winning conference is real,” Edinger
said. Students who participate in school sports also believe the change in class will be beneficial. “I think as a team we have a better chance of winning. Coaches are excited too . . . We’re a cocky team. Like, we expect to win,” said junior football player Darrell Jones. Others agreed. “I like it because we win more and play against teams at the same level as us,” said sophomore tennis player Emily
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Small team defeats odds Girls tennis hits the court New coach four members. Originally the team consisted of five members, but other activities caused a team member to stop swimming. They do not have a diver. “Without divers we score fewer points so it’s a lot harder to win a meet,” said captain senior Kyle Quatrochi. The boys swim team practices vary from week to week. The team has to share the pool with Winnetonka and Staley. “Some weeks we are from 3 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. and others we are 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. with morning practices Tuesday and Thursday,” Rule said. Rule instructs the swimmers to practice a certain set as they warmup and prepare for the meets. “A set is like a workout,” Quatrochi said. “She tells us what stroke to do and what pace to do it at.” The boys work on swimming short and long distances. They also concentrate on individual stroke work. “We work a lot on the little things that can win or lose a meet,” Rule said. The team has performed well during its meets despite the lack of divers. “So far the meets have been great,” Rule said. “We had a 100 percent time drop.” The boys clenched their first victory against William Chrisman on Wednesday, Sept. 15.
helps swimmers
By: Jessica Nichols Sports Editor Boys swim went through a big change at the beginning of its season. The 2009 coach Matthew Duffy stepped down after completing his master’s degree. Now the boys practice under the instruction of coach Kelly Rule. “I’d been coaching for six years,” Duffy said. “I decided it was time to move on.” Rule has previous coaching experience. She coached the Raytown boys and girls swim teams for seven years. After that she started coaching the Northtown swimmers. “I already coach the NKCHS swim and dive team,” Rule said. “We practice at the same time; and I already know most of the team so it was an easy fit to coach both teams.” Coaching two teams does not pose a problem when meets take place because the two schools compete at different conference levels. “It helps that we are in different conferences so while there is competition between the teams the main swim of the season is separate,” Rule said. On top of the new coach, the swim team has
Photos By: Kim Green, Photographer
with football coach Mark Faubion about the Hudl program By: Caleb Eissler Writer Q: What gave you the idea to join the Hudl website? A: “Some of us in the coaching community have become close friends. When we run across something that is worthwhile, we share it. Then when we go to clinics, we try and get in contact with the vendors of those products and see if it could help us, and if it is financially capable for us to get. Hudl is rapidly spreading across the coaching world.
During practice, the girls tennis team drills, plays challenge matches and conditions on the track or hills. “[The best part about tennis is] spending time with the team,” said secondyear varsity member Jenna McDaniel. The team also plays multiple games such as Around the World and Wipeout. During Around the World, the girls are separated into two equal teams, and the beginning girl serves the ball to the other teams. Once she has hit the ball, she runs to the end of the opposite line. This continues until a girl has either missed the ball twice, or is the last one standing. After losing a doubles match at practice, juniors Abbey Stockard and Kelcie Thomas do push-ups as their losing punishment. The girls coaches Tana Stock and Bryan Edinger help the girls get prepared for matches, run drills and learn new and helpful games. “I love our coaches,” Stockard said. “I think they are so fun.”
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Juhl. The girls tennis team remains undefeated as of Monday, Sept. 20, according to Juhl. “We really need to encourage people to come out and play . . . they have more opportunities then when we had a lot of boys coming out for football,” Ross said. The drop in classes does have disadvantages, however. “If winning is the only criteria, then it’s a positive effect because it’s easier. If not, it’s a negative effect because the level of competition goes down,” Rupp said. Although, Rupp and other coaches agree there is still sufficient competition at district, state and conference events. “There’s no such thing as an easy win,” said coach Joel Pabon at the Friday, Sept. 10 football game.
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Q: Has using Hudl been successful so far? A: “It’s been very successful. We can get more video looked at, broken down, and watched by our athletes than ever before. And in our sport, watching film over and over again is a part of the business. Plus it allows us to send the film to our guys so they can watch it at home as well as at school and after practice.” Q: Do you think the team benefits from Hudl? A: “We have benefitted. In watching film, the key is to get used to how teams react in certain situations. It also helps us in trading film with other teams. We no longer have to make copies, put them on the computer, then make DVD’s then meet with an opposing coach on Saturday morning so we can have film to watch. It goes directly into the cyber-world and we have it readily available whenever and wherever we need it. We as coaches can watch it at our homes and don’t have to spend 20-30 hours a weekend at the school. We can spend time with our fam-
ilies and get work done later at home. Our players can get more film and tendency work at home as well by us sending the film to their account, not just for 40 minutes on Saturday. Plus they are accountable. I can get on and see what players have watched film and how long they watched it. “ Q: Explain exactly how Hudl works. A: “Hudl works by allowing all of our film and data we have on the previous Friday nights game and more importantly the upcoming opponents to be readily available anytime, anywhere online. Each coach and player has an account that they can log on to, pull up game film and tendencies. The software lets us as coaches enter data as far as what formation they line up in and what plays they run according to what personnel is in the game. That may sound like a bunch of hogwash but every coach has a certain amount of tendency of how they call a game. It’s kind of like performing a psychology experiment. Most coaches fall back on what they know and do best in times of need. For example, if you come down to a critical third and 8 in a game, most coaches are comfortable with certain type of play. If you compare that situation with what they have done in the past, even year after year in the past, you can have a decent percent chance of getting their play tendencies.
page 3 opinion
Friday, Sept. 24, 2010
Oakie Opinions
“Sometimes there “I just get really frus“Same food every aren’t enough seats and trated and would rather day and I don’t have I’m tired of the same food have four lunches and enough time to eat my every day.” empty spaces than no lunch.” chairs.” - senior Kris Reed -junior - sophomore Savannah Mesh Nicole Poteat
“Nowhere to ever sit. I like having three lunches because I would be really hungry by the fourth lunch.” -freshman Amber Ivey
What is your biggest pet peeve about the lunch periods?
From the newsroom: Harassment terrorizes Students walk out of the cafeteria and suddenly they see other students throwing punches and shoving someone into a wall. The news spreads around the school like wildfire, growing in severity each time the story is retold. One student starts teasing another person in their classes about their looks or their personality. Others join in, bullying the student even more. The school year has barely begun and, already, students have started fights and the bullies have started to make themselves known. A few students have gone to the counselors in tears because of hateful words their peers used towards them. Classes have been in session for only six weeks. Only a few physical fights have taken place. Verbal fights have also happened already during the
school year. When students find themselves harassed or bullied, they become scared of the school environment. School should not become a negative word in the eyes of American youth, but it has because of the way students treat one another in today’s society. Sure, harassment happens every year. More than a few fights always take place in the halls, near the main stairs and around the cafeteria. You never know when to expect students to start screaming and throwing punches until you feel the tension in the air. However, one may find it hard to recall when a fight occurred during the first six-week grading period. This year
the harassment has already started to spiral out of control, especially with the underclassmen. A student should never have to deal with harassment. If one has a problem with another person they should learn to deal with the problems in a cool, collected adult manner. High school starts preparing students for their future in the outside world. If one learns to deal with confrontation and harassment by fighting back things only get worse. The school provides resources in order to stop violence before it starts. The students who find themselves having problems with one another should agree to go to the Peer Helpers for
Log’s View
‘Cool School’ recognizes
Printer policy strikes out
By: Aggie Rieger Editorial Editor
By: Kaylan Ballard Cartoonist
Students heard loud, proud By: Kayla Smith Lifestyles Editor From the U.S. government to a high school student government, the issue of the people having a strong voice in decision making has come up time and time again. In high schools throughout the country, students fight the constant battle to have their opinions heard and respected. Here at OP, student
guidance in solving their problems or get together on their own and peacefully solve the issue. Two wrongs never make a right and fighting never completely solves a problem. Students should look out for one another. Stand up for someone when you see them pushed around by one of your peers. Work together and try to get along with the people around you. In helping others, one can find a strong peace of mind and may find oneself with an earned respect from other students. Everyone deals with similar emotions and struggles through some of the same problems. We must learn that in order to stop the harassment and learn to get along with one another.
voice is something we have plenty of. The first well known way students say their opinions loud and proud is through the Student Council. Not only do the students who get elected to the council get a say in decisions. StuCo plans events among many other things and, with the exception of its advisor Bryan Edinger, is student run. Wouldn’t you like to be able to have a say on the theme of a
dance or make posters to get the school revved up for a Friday night game? Being on StuCo gives you that say. Another way for a gung-ho student to get involved in inner workings is through the Principal’s Advisory Council, a group of students who volunteered to suggest changes with Principal Fred Skretta. Who knew teenagers could be so involved?
I love coming to school. Maybe it’s getting dressed up in the morning, maybe it’s knowing I’m going to see some great friends and maybe I’m just a nerd. I take a lot of pride in our school, even if it has its blunders and annoyances. Our school is pretty cool - cool enough to be chosen as KCTV5’s very first “Cool School of the Week.” The turn out for the “Cool School” assembly was pretty good, considering the fact it was 4:30 in the gosh darn morning when it started. I’ll admit even I wasn’t too enthusiastic about being there, especially being there in my marching band uniform. But the cameras rolled anyways, capturing some of OP’s best parts. Oak Street performed, as did the Pommies and band. Many of our school activities were featured as well. Of course, I can’t leave out the incident in which one blue-faced student in a cape obnoxiously ran behind an interview with senior Melanie Holmgren, only getting out of the camera frame when Principal Fred Skretta pulled him over. And who could
forget how the pancake truck meant to bring pancakes for students broke down and we all ate doughnuts instead. What? Yeah. Props to the Booster Club, who got us all doughnuts last minute and even went as far as to griddle pancakes themselves. Now that is cool. A lot of great clubs were showcased on T.V., but let us not forget the smaller, less known student groups around OP. They make our school diverse and a great place to be. It’s these extra-curricular activities and tired, but enthused students that make OP so great. They bleed blue, something we all need to do a little more of. There is always a lot going on and something for everyone here. That is just another reason why I love this school so much. Don’t know what some of those clubs are? Look them up and discover even more. I hear all the time that students who participate in athletics and other extra-curriculars do better socially and academically, and that is clearly true. Just look at OP. We have a plethora of activities and teams, and what
do we get? Some of the highest test scores in the district and state. More than just good test scores are going on around school. Sports are doing really well; the musical is in full swing and just look at this paper and all the stories that fill the pages. OP is something to be proud of, and a “cool school” to love. We do have a cool school, clearly. But unfortunately, KCTV5 didn’t think so. From an anchor that compared our a Cappella choir to his friends at a pub to a reporter who cussed while interviewing one of our students and everything in between, including a cameraman giggling during choir performances, it seems that KCTV5 did not know how to conduct themselves in a professional environment. At the end of the day being able to take pride in your school is inspiring, even if some people are not mature enough to handle that. Still, we all get a free Junior Frosty every time we go to a Wendy’s til the end of 2011. That’s pretty cool if you ask me, it just would have been better if people had a little more self control.
Some think teachers ‘steal’ the spotlight By: Johnna Hensley Photo Editor After an entire week of strenuous auditions, Friday, Aug. 27, was the day that left many students hanging on the edge of their seats. That was the day the cast list of “Hairspray” posted. The students were stressed, and you could practically feel the electricity of excitement buzzing in the air. More than 90 students auditioned for this musical, and nearly 30 were turned away. As soon as the lights came on at 2:20 p.m., students sprinted down the main staircase racing towards the call board. I stood by patiently as the crowds developed, waiting to see the results.
The expressions appearing on the faces of my peers nearly stopped me dead in my tracks. Judging by the “melting pot” of mixed reactions, I already knew what had occurred. Rumors had become a reality. Out of a cast of 60 total, 58 of them were high school students. The other two are none other than teachers; debate and forensics teacher Arianne Fortune and science teacher Bill Dennis. Several weeks before auditions, there were rumors floating around the Fine Arts department speculating that auditions for “Hairspray” were going to be open to faculty members as well. When asked why, theater director Jef-
frey Baldwin stated, “I cast based on talent, and the success of the show.” As a theatre student, I can honestly say that I wasn’t thrilled about this change to say the least. However, with change comes an opportunity to grow, not only as a performer, but as an individual. It’s all about new experiences, professionalism, and adaptations. In professional theatre, you literally work with people of all ages and backgrounds. “If you continuously work with like peers, how will you ever learn?” Baldwin said. “Now, for those individuals who think or say ‘it’s not fair, this is high school theatre, well then, that’s all we’ll ever be, just high school theatre. People
use that term to denote poor quality theatre, and I don’t agree with that. My mission is to create professional theatre at an educational level.” Essentially, if we want to set the bar high, we’re going to have to go in with the right mind set. It’s a change that, in the end, could definitely be for the better. The show is only as good as it’s weakest member, and I have faith that this is going to be a performance the audience will not soon forget. Despite only being into the third week of rehearsal, the show is progressing beautifully and is well underway.
The Northmen’s Log Staff &Policies “The Northmen’s Log” is published 10 times during the school year. “The Log” is a student forum for expression; it is produced by students for students. “The Log” accepts letters to the editor in rooms E133 or E134 or cgeabhar@nkcsd.k12.mo.us. Letters cannot exceed a length of 350 words. We will not run letters that are libelous, obscene, or that may cause a verifiable disruption of the education process of
Oak Park. Letters must be signed. Advertisers may contact the business manager at 413-5352, or 825 N.E. 79th Terrace, Kansas City, MO, 64118. Opinions expressed in “The Log” do not reflect staff endorsements of that product or service. “The Log” is a member of NSPA, MIPA and Quill and Scroll International Honorary Society for High School Journalists. “The Log” is affiliated with JEA and JEMKC.
Editor-in-Chief Courtney Kelley Photo Editor Johnna Hensley Editorial Editor Aggie Rieger Entertainment Editor Tatyana Pekarsky
Sports Editor & Feature Editor, Business Manager Jessica Nichols
Writers James Coleman Caleb Eissler Lauren Grace
Lifestyles Editor Kayla Smith
Photographers Lilla Foldi Kim Green Dylan Kinder
Cartoonist Kaylan Ballard
Adviser Christina Geabhart
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Friday, Sept. 24, 2010
Leadership goes unnoticed By: Jessica Nichols Sports Editor
Have you ever wondered who puts posters around the school for spirit weeks? Who plans Relay 4 Life and the powder puff games? What about what the students do in leadership class? “We do a lot more for the school than people think,” said senior Taylor White. The Leadership class offers StuCo members and other students a chance to effectively hone their leadership skills. “Leadership offers students who are involved with Student Council the chance to meet together and plan, organize and delegate Student Council activities,” said leadership teacher Bryan Edinger. “It is also designed to give students the tools they need to lead their school.” The leadership class promotes school spirit and plans important events around the school. Every class period, the students work on the upcoming events and activities that affect their peers. They set up and design the school dances, pep rallies and assem-
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The members of the commitee are responsible for creating and implementing Student Council projects throughout the year.
leadership teacher Bryan Edinger
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blies. “We organize school activities. It can be stressful, hourly class work,” said junior Adel Abu-Omar. They also help groups and businesses outside the school by planning fund raisers the entire school can participate in. “We do the fund raisers for chari-
ties,” Abu-Omar said. “In the past we’ve done the food drives and blood drives. We also plan Relay 4 Life.” Students split into small committees which work on different activities happening during different parts of the school year. Each group has certain responsibilities they have to fulfill in order for projects to get completed. “Each person in class belongs to a committee; each committee is headed by one of the student body officers,” Edinger said. “The members of the committee are responsible for creating and implementing Student Council projects throughout the year. Once the students have completed major projects, they will write reflections for the leadership students next year to review. There are also other small assignments associated with the content portion of the class.” Currently, students have started planning the events that lead up to Homecoming. They decide on everything from the pep-rally to the dance decorations. They have also started de-
signing T-shirts. “They’re black,” White said. “And they say ‘We love OP,’ with a heart.” The students also study leadership qualities and attributes that will help them become strong leaders. “We are currently reading ‘The Tipping Point’ by Malcom Gladwell,” Edinger said. “It is about the study of ideas and how they spread; How can we make a message infectious? How do we take an idea like Relay 4 Life or Adopt-a-Family and make that endeavor infectious; something everyone at OP wants to be a part of?” The students take the leadership class seriously. To them, it does not equal an easy A. “It’s not a joke,” Abu-Omar said. “It’s not just a blow-off class.” The concepts students learn in leadership will also prepare them for their future, whether they go to college or join the work force. “Having leadership qualities is natural, using them effectively is learned,” Edinger said.
America brings new opportunities Why we chose to visit By: Lilla Foldi Writer The USA has always represented, and represents still today, a wonderful and free world to the Europeans. The wars are over, Europe is quiet. People are not forced to flee from their country. However, still up until today a lot of people choose this “unknown” but wonderful world. Hundreds of people try their luck, since the USA is the homeland of opportunities. Everybody has a different reason to come here. Some come to work, some only to see the world and some come to study. I belong to the latter group just like those
” I choose it because people are very friendly and hospitable.
senior Anastasia Colosovschi
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hundreds of European students who participate in the AIFS organization’s student exchange program. “I choose it because I wanted to feel the American spirit,” said German exchange student Lara Kuhnt, “and in America, the host families don’t get money for hosting, so they do it just because they are nice.”
I believe I can state it on behalf of my mates as well, that it feels like being in “Alice in Wonderland.” America is really as we have seen it in the movies. Here everything is bigger and more developed. By this I do not mean to criticize Europe because of course I love my home. The educational system is very different from the European educational system even on the basic level. I love that here, students like going to school and they participate in every kind of event. Americans are lucky to live here and we are also lucky to have this great opportunity to stay here for a few months. “I choose it because people are very friendly and hospitable. I like to travel and I really like American culture,” said Moldova exchange student Anastasia Colosovschi.
How is America different from home? “The people are friendly, and hospitable, Oak Park is different but I like it” – Anastasia Colosovschi
“I like the students, and the school is very different, Everyone is friendly and helpful, I like the football games because ive never been before”Lilla Foldi “We had a meeting with the exchange club, we met American students, and had pizza, and it was a lot of fun” – Lara Kuhnt
“All the clubs and meetings, and you can do so many things in school” – Gennifer Englehardt “The people are friendly and help you with things very different but I like it, and the school spirit, after school I play tennis every day.”- Lea Schmidt “The musical, it’s fun and different”Friederike Kruger
“The football games, because it is different”Emilie Hardy
page 5 entertainment
Friday, Sept. 24, 2010
Step back in time By: Lauren Grace Writer Once upon a time, thou fellow youth traveled back in an older epoch, a time when dragons, sorcerers and knights in shining armor took forth in culture. This may be an act, but a lesson learned in literature brings example of its merry times in life before thy English made sense. Saturday, Sept. 18, students in mythology and British literature took a trip back in time to the Renaissance Festival. The group met at school at 7 a.m. or joined up at the fest in Bonner Springs, Kan., with Staley’s mythology class. The trip was not actually a field trip but an optional opportunity to get a perspective on what they will learn in the books throughout the semester. “To be honest, the Renaissance is not the
Two entertainers play the flute and the harp at the Renaissance Festival on Saturday Sept. 4. Many freelance musicians come together in costumes and play for all the passer-bys. Photo By: Kim Green, Photographer
same time period mythology was a religious practice,” said communication arts teacher Sara Hantzis. “But lets students see life when it was a primitive newer age. A good experience to see a younger life.” When entering the gates, the ambience of magic fills the air. “The class will come, and just have somebody to know at the festival,”
Hantzis said. The British literature class will find it more accessible to Shakespeare or John Webster. “Right now in class, they are reading ‘Frankenstein’, but later on it will be handy,” said British literature teacher Natalie Hunter. Every year there is a theme to keep the event fresh for those who never miss a season.
Usually based on Shakespearean plays, this year was “Once Upon a Time There Was You,” capturing the spirit of the childhood tale, Cinderella. “Everyone knows the story of Cinderella. We’ve all seen the movie. It’s also a story that has been used as inspiration,” said performer Fran Kapono. For many, the best part about the festival was being a part of it. Visitors sometimes dress up in the flamboyant clothes. Others may not and still support it just as much. “[My favorite part] was musical, singing pirates and fighting as a Persian warrior in the battle of 300,” said junior Jake Strickland. “All I ate was a turkey leg [and] that was all I wanted to eat. It was as big as my forearm.” For some, the joust-
Dance the night away with a full belly By: Lauren Grace Writer With Homecoming right around the corner, students have a lot of planning to do. Whether trying to impress someone special or having fun with a group, it costs some money for an outfit, tickets and food. Luckily, restaurants try to make it easy for people to enjoy their evening with out loan sharks involved. Olive Garden: The first restaurant that comes to mind for students will clearly be busy Homecoming night. Right now for $8.95, you can have a never-ending pasta bowl of any combination, spin as much pasta on the fork as one will do on the dance floor. Bravos: An Italian
cuisine with the atmosphere of an ancient coliseum. The aura carries a type of date with romance and casual essence. Located in Zona Rosa, it does not carry any specials but has a price range within $20 and less. Lone Star: For the girl who dreams of a cowboy to take her out at night, Lone Star has a two for $20 deal where a couple could get two entrees and an appetizer on Barry Road near the AMC. Fun, but can also be messy with barbecue sauce piled on the tasty ribs, in a dress or tux. The Melting Pot: A sweet and laid back feel at the Plaza, “The Melting Pot” caters to special events with a four-course meal. This is great for groups and friends to re-
lax on a fun night. Also, for dessert, people may have eloquent fondues or cake. Hibachi Japanese Steakhouse: Impress your girl with a chef throwing knives and blowing vegetables up in front of them. They do not have any specials but the price at the Plaza is fair under $20. They also serve sushi, which can be eccentric for a night of major dance-offs. Minsky’s Pizza: Only a few blocks away from the school, Minsky’s serves pizza and Italian food. The restaurant is well-priced, fancy and fun in any size of a group. That and save gas money! Cheesecake Factory: A place that no doubt has good food and has awesome cheesecake.
Home-grown comedians entertain By: Tatyana Pekarsky Entertainment Editor While there aren’t many things that connect nearly all people together, laughter is one of the positive things that does just that. Everyone laughs for different reasons and because of different things. The people who seek to create laughter are held high by many, and looked down upon by others. Every Wednesday at 3:30 p.m., students meet in science teacher Bill Dennis’ class to share their humor with each other, preparing themselves to perform in front of others. For some, being the “funny guy” in class affects their typical behav-
ior and outlook on life. “[Comedy] makes things easier,” junior Cody Fisk said. “When I’m in a stressful situation, I can laugh about it.” Fisk and junior Mitch Miller helped bring the club up together. Fisk, with Dennis as his inspiration, helped produce the club and spread the funny “Comedy is how I deal with stress,” Dennis said. “Crying and laughing are basically the same thing.” For Dennis, inspiration comes from his daily life and interactions with others. “Comedy allows me to enjoy even the most painful staff meetings by looking for absurd
phrasings or mannerisms,” Dennis said. The Comedy Club was designed to allow kids to get together and have fun being humorous and clever. However, Dennis has advice for all wannabe comics. “Comedy is in the brain of the beholder,” Dennis said. “Not everyone thinks you’re funny.” He also makes a point to let others know that being funny and being a jerk are two different things, and always be ready to apologize. The biggest piece of advice one could get would be to just keep trying and never give up. “You’re not gonna be famous at first,” Fisk said, “or at all.”
‘Avatar’ makes way back to theaters By: Tatyana Pekarsky Entertainment Editor Last year, James Cameron’s “Avatar” hit the theaters hard and became a nation-wide phenomena. The use of new cameras to create the world of Pandora stunned fans. On Friday, Aug. 27, the movie returned to theaters with nine extra minutes of movie, making it 172 minutes long. “Avatar” was hyped to be great and astonishing, receiving three Oscars. It earned high praise and many fans who love the blue creatures that wander Pandora. “I thought it was a
great movie,” senior Megan Krone said. “It was different from what I’ve seen lately.” Krone was unable to see the movie in theaters and was disappointed at the loss of the experience. With the re-release,
however, she plans to finally see it on the big screen. “I liked the action,” sophomore Molly Greener said. “And the graphics were awesome.” Greener plans to go see the movie once more while still in theaters. While she states the extended scenes should have been put in the first time, that won’t stop her from seeing it again. “Avatar” will be in theaters once more for only a short time, allowing fans to experience the extended version of the film on the big screen or even in 3-D. “If it’s nine minutes longer,” Krone said, “it better be epic.”
There’s a Middle-Eastern extravaganza on the Plaza. Though their prices are a little high, above $30, one should surely have no regrets. Bo Ling’s: Chinese please? Bo Ling’s in Zona Rosa is the place for you. Romantic and fancy at a fair price to show off one’s chopstick skills. Great for just the two, the feng shui is peaceful and not nerve racking to make things awkward. Groups are just as welcome. Cascone’s Italian Restaurant: A popular homecoming location, Cascone’s has romance like eating spaghetti to meet in the middle of a noodle, “Lady and the Tramp” style. Though prices are high, they do have specials for the season.
At the Renaissance Festival, jousting is a popular attraction for many families. A large production includes a king, queen and several jousters who battle to be the last one standing. Photo By: Kim Green, Photographer
ing is the highlight of the festival, even if the same guy wins every year. Most shop owners are just people who do some regular jobs, but sell fun handmade crafts for the season every weekend until Sunday Oct. 17. “I think the best part of the Renaissance festival is getting to meet all different kinds of people. People from all different walks of life with all different kinds of interests come out and get to escape from their lives for
a while and be a part of something from a fairy tale,” Kapono said. The students took the Living History tour since the festival was not all Grimm brothers and fairies. Performers keep it realistic, which means the ruler is not King Arthur, but instead Henry VIII. “I was excited. I haven’t been on a field trip since fifth grade, and got to be with friends from school,” Strickland said.
MTV announces award winners By: Tatyana Pekarsky Entertainment Editor On Sunday, Sept. 12, the MTV Video Music Awards were held in Los Angeles, Calif., with 11 performances from artists like Taylor Swift, Justin Bieber and Usher. “Overall, they were good,” senior Zach Lancaster said. “But the performances could have been better.” Lancaster noted how the awards were predictable, such as Bieber winning Best New Artist and Lady Gaga winning Best Female Video with her hit “Bad Romance.” Gaga also won Best Collaboration, Editing, Direction, Dance Music Video, Choreography, Pop Video and Video of the Year.
“I knew Lady Gaga was gonna win everything,” senior Laurel Bartholomew said. However, Gaga was not the only one awarded, though the pop star certainly took home the most awards. Eminem recieved Best Male Video and Hip Hop Video. 30 Seconds to Mars was awarded Best Rock Video for their song “Kings and Queens” and Muse won Best Special Effects for “Uprising.” Best Art Direction went to Florence + The Machine and Best Cinematography went to Jay-Z and Alicia Keys for “Empire State of Mind.” While some felt the awards were predictable, there were those just glad to see the winners awarded.
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Friday, Sept. 24, 2010