Log
The Northmen’s
Friday, October 22, 2010
Halloween traditions, calories, events, movies and more, pages 4-5
Oak Park High School
Issue 3, Volume 46
Art learns scare tactics By: Jessica Nichols Sports and Feature Editor
Walking through the dark, fog-filled walkways monsters greet one at every corner. Standing in line, one feels the suspense build as the line draws nearer to the front doors of the “Doll House.” Awaiting the scares before them, Worlds of Fun attendees hold their breath. But does one know what happens behind the scenes or where the spooky costuming and makeup comes from? The Art Club received a chance to experience the life of a ‘scarester’ and participate in the ghoulish haunted houses in order to find out. “I work there part time and I’m one of the make-up artists for the Halloween Haunt,” said Art Club sponsor Lindsey Doolittle. “I looked into for the Art Club… get to see the behind the scenes of make-up and costumes. I thought it was a good fund raiser.” Sixteen members of the club split into two groups and traveled to the amusement park on Friday, Oct. 8 and Friday, Oct. 15 to learn the scaring trade. Wearing masks and costumes, they entered the Worlds of Fun haunted houses.
“It’s a good experience,” said senior Shannon Tinkey. “We get to see how they paint faces and get behind the scenes.” Not only were the students able to learn more about the art that interested them, but they made money for their club while becoming makeup artists and characters in the Worlds of Fun haunted houses. The students raised $600 for the Art Club. “We’re trying to afford T-shirts and other fun stuff this year,” said senior Kelsey Scott. Doolittle ran into a few problems as she tried to schedule the fund raiser for the students. Originally, all 16 students had planned on attending on the same day and a few important documents didn’t arrive. “Worlds of Fun double booked so we had to go two separate days,” Doolittle said. “They also didn’t send enough parking passes and contracts.” However, everyone who wanted to go was able to and the problems became cracks in the road towards the fund raising activity. The students absorbed the new art techniques and some enjoyed the experience. Sophomore Cody Rasmussen wears a witch doctor’s assistant attire for Art Club’s fund rais“I think that Art Club should definitely er Friday, Oct. 15. “ [It was fun] just walking around and hearing random people scream at do it again,” Tinkey said. you,” Rasmussen said. Photo By: Tatyana Pekarsky, entertainment editor
Singers learn quickly, thrill choir director By: Aggie Rieger Opinion Editor “We are thrilled that your kids sing. Absolutely thrilled,” said choir director Chris Droegemuller on the half lit stage of the theatre on Thursday, Oct 7, and the first choir concert of the school year began. “To take a choir who has never sung together in eight weeks and get them to perform together is quite a task,” said Droegemueller after the concert. The concert featured seven choirs, two of them show choirs that danced as they sang. “The kids had fun, they all did a great job for their level, as long as they enjoy the music, who cares if they make mistakes,” Droegemueller said. The women’s show choir Treble FX took the stage first. The stage was half lit due to technical difficulties. “If you can figure it out then great, if not, we’ll keep singing,” Droegemuller said up to the lights booth. Junior Shelbi Arndt said her favorite choir is Treble FX. “Because there’s a wider variety of songs we sing,” Arndt said. Treble FX sang “Don’t Rain On My Parade” and “Come In With The Rain.” “They’re better than last year,” said 2010 graduate Drew Blanton, who while a student performed in many of the choirs. As the girls in the shiny blue dresses exited the stage, the light began working and illuminated the stage, just in time for Oak Street. “They’re the premier choir, they always do good,” said sophomore Clayton Edmisten of Oak Street’s performance. They nationally recognized show choir sang “96,000,” “Since First I Saw Your Face,” “Beautiful” and “Puttin’ On the Ritz.” After the two show choirs performed, there was a break as new risers were brought on stage for the concert choir portion of the evening. “[The first portion was] awesome, it makes me miss them even more than I already do,” said Blue Valley West High School choir director Kimberly Scott, who worked as assistant choir director here last year. “There’s been a lot of changes [since Scott left. Droegemueller] had to take over classes and drop the class Solid Oak,” Arndt said. “It’s changed how we warm up for concerts. Before she would warm up the others, now he has to do both. It’s more hectic and stressful.” Students jumped past each other and
“We work really hard on all of our music, and we have such a great time when we perform, it’s amazing,” said senior Jeri Porter, dancing with partner senior Derek Byrne. this year’s Oak Street theme is Rags to Riches. Senior Sterling Robbins performs during the choir concert, Thursday, Oct. 7. Photos by Johnna Hensley, photo editor For more photos, see page 8.
waited in line to see Scott. “I’m looking forward to seeing my old students sing,” she said. Others were excited as well. “I’m excited because I want to see my daughter in high school for the first time,” said parent Audie Jackson. “It’s great to see the kids,” said grandmother Virginia Cruz. “I’ve been looking forward to it.” The concert picked back up with Mixed Chorus. “About eight weeks ago I met this class, and they wouldn’t stand still. I told them to watch it because if they didn’t stand still they’d have choreography for the concert,” Droegemueller said to the audience of
Mixed Chorus, who usually does not perform with choreography. This year, the choir threw in some movement to “It Takes Two,” they sang “Let It Be” in place on risers. Mixed Chorus was different from the other choirs because no audition was required for enrollment. “Mixed Chorus isn’t very good,” Blanton said. Next was Freshman Choir, who sang “Minoi, Minoi,” “Haven’t Met You Yet” and “I Gotta Feeling,” which Droegemueller dedicated to his son Cooper. “They come rambling in and we have a ball in the morning,” Droegemueller said in his introduction to the choir. “[The best part] having a great teacher, [the worst part is] staying on pitch with everyone else,” said Freshman Choir member Angelica Ahumada. Sophomore Choir took the stage next. “Sophomore choir got small. This is really small compared to last year,” Blanton said. The choir sang “Sing We Alleluia,” “Gone Too Soon” and “Higher Ground.” Two of the girls on stage wore dresses who did not match those of their peers. “We had a few costumes that got backordered; it’s a risk you take. It’s one of those gambles you take when you order from certain companies,” Droegemueller said after the concert. The students were optimistic. “Some of the costumes aren’t in yet, but they’ll be in tomorrow,” said freshman Eliza Maloney, who is in Treble FX and Treble Choir, she took the stage with the rest of Treble next. Treble Choir sang “Dies Itae,” “Can You Hear,” “I Dreamed a Dream” and “Chain of Fools.” “This is the choir with the most diverse program,” Droegemueller said in his introduction to the choir. Technical difficulties arose when microphones ceased to work, the ladies of Treble Choir just sang louder. The concert’s final performance was A cappella Choir. “It’s been crazy because we have a lot of people and have to coordinate a lot of stuff,” Edmisten said of his choir. A cappella sang “Exultate,” “Justi,” “Come Live With Me” and “Be My Love, Linus and Lucy and Chindia;” bringing the evening to a close. “Thank you so much for sharing your kids, have a wonderful evening, take care,” Droegemueller said and exited stage left, ending the show.
News Brief Musical to run next month Branching from the history of racial segregation in the ‘60s, the widely renowned 1988 film “Hairspray” has been made into a musical and also remade. This year, for the fall musical, the theater department tackled this show with high hopes. “It’s the time when all the bits and pieces come together and it starts looking like a show,” said musical cast member junior Lauren Collingsworth. “Hairspray” follows a young teenager in Baltimore, Tracy Turnblad, during the 1960s, who just wants to be one of the dancers on a local daytime teenage television show. One major obstacle standing in the way of Tracy’s dream is her weight. However despite this obstacle, Tracy pursues her dream and in the process teaches people a lesson in judging others by their appearance, helps a television station become the first desegregate and wins the man of her dreams. “It’s going to come together really nicely,” said musical cast member junior Claire Carreon. About three-fourths of the way through putting the show together as a whole, the cast rehearses every day after school, and crews meet once to twice a week to work on everything from set pieces to costumes. Performances are at 7 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 11, Friday, Nov. 12 and Saturday, Nov. 13 in the main auditorium. Cost is $7 in advance, $8 at the door.
Preparing for college starts in middle school, not as a senior By: Tatyana Pekarsky Entertainment Editor There’s a long path for students after high school, whether it’s entering the workforce, joining the military, or going to college. Many students expect to go to college, but may not have the preparation or knowledge to do so. This is a great obstacle in the next step of life after high school. Preparing for college wasn’t what most would call easy. Students have to write a resume, fill out applications, take the ACT or SAT and so on. However, preparation is something that truly begins in middle school. “You really begin preparing in middle school by some of the course selections you make which affect and ap-
ply to high school,” counselor Kathleen Mahan said. Students need to read and get informed about the different career choices they are interested in. Counselor Judith Wake stressed the importance of taking classes to better prepare oneself for those careers. “Either you choose, or you get what’s left over,” Wake said. Different colleges offer different courses and programs for those careers, and it helps to know which are the most interesting. “You want to be able to make your choice for your life,” Wake said. For seniors, the troubles arise when applying to colleges. Filling out resumes or applications, maintaining GPA and
attendance are factors that come in to play when it comes to choosing a college as well as getting into it. Wake noted many seniors forget about their resumes, or what to add. “Brag about yourself,” Wake said. “Come to your counselor and we’ll help.” Deadlines tend to be detrimental for seniors as well. “I have had seniors crushed because they put all their eggs in one basket and then they did not get into that school,” Mahan said. “By that time it was past deadlines to apply for other schools and financial aid.” Many college applications are due near the beginning of the school year, which means seniors need to be on top
of their resumes this month. “[Colleges] want to see leadership responsibility, they want to see community service,” Wake said. However, the physical and academic factors are not the only considerations seniors need to think about. “Be realistic but don’t lose sight of your dreams,” Mahan said. “Have a dream school that has your major, your preferred location and size, your favorite activities and talent areas but always have a plan B, in case you can’t get the funding or don’t get accepted.” College many be another form of school, but it is also the first step into new lives. “Everybody has a life after high school,” Wake said.
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Friday, Oct. 22, 2010
page sports
A month in sports Cross Country Saturday, Oct. 23, Districts at Liberty Saturday, Oct. 30, Sectionals Saturday, Nov. 6, State at Jefferson City Boys Soccer Wednesday, Oct. 27, 5 p.m. vs Platte County at DAC Saturday, Oct. 30, Districts Tuesday, Nov. 9, Sectionals Saturday, Nov. 13, Quarterfinals Boys Swim Saturday, Nov. 6, 3 p.m. at the NKCSD Natatorium Volleyball Oct. 25-27, Districts Saturday, Oct. 30, Sectionals Nov. 5-6, State
Sports Briefs Mabrey does double duty First ever to be a Pommie and cheerleader, sophomore Hannah Mabrey explained that participating in both can be done. “It feels good to be the first ever and know it can be done, I think it Hannah Mabrey shows others that they can do it to,” Mabrey said. With Pommies and cheerleaders performing at the same events, Mabrey finds herself moving from one thing to the next in a matter of seconds. Mabrey says her biggest challenge was changing during the assembly from her Pommies uniform to her cheerleading uniform within minutes. Mabrey has been involved with cheerleading for two years and Pommies for one year. “I like cheerleading a lot and at first they wouldn’t let me do both then I convinced them to let me do both because I did not want to give up either one.” Mabrey said.
Eissler’s Insight
Falcons take on new role as Northmen foe By: Caleb Eissler Writer
There’s nothing in the world like walking into a stadium full of thousands of people screaming at the top of their lungs for you to absolutely smash your greatest foe. The pure and utter desire to demolish your biggest opponent in anything and everything; this is the essence of a rivalry. Rivalry games; the one people anticipate and work for. Everyone from fans, teachers, students, players, coaches, communities, cities, states and even nations become a part of the rivalry. This is what makes a rivalry so much different from anything else. Everyone can be a part of it as long as they strongly support something. Many times pure hatred comes from rivalries in the pursuit of defeating one’s enemy. Even mentioning the rival’s name has a connotation of evil and brings on a look of disgust from someone involved in the battle. A sense of intensity like no other sweeps over everyone on game day and brings on a readiness for combat that you can’t experience anywhere else. All of this makes a rivalry so much fun and special. What better place to have a rivalry than in high school. One of the major parts of high school is the sports rivalries. Here, this fact rings true. Winnetonka use to be the Northmen’s
biggest rival since the opening of the Griffins in 1971. For years the two schools have battled it out on the gridiron, the basketball court and the classroom. A few years ago, something happened that stirred into motion the creation of one of greatest rivalries in Kansas City. The opening of Staley High School caused Oak Park to go from a school of 2,500 students who were a powerhouse in Missouri’s largest classes in sports and academics, to a facility hardly filled with its 1,200 student attendance who dropped in class in nearly every sport and activity held at the school. Staley was filled with the newest and coolest technology, had a state-of-the-art football field built on its campus, and was even sponsored by Under Armor. People don’t just let things like this slide. This was by far the case at OP. Students here despise the thought of Staley. Northmen want nothing more than to wipe the cocky, rich smile off of the Staley Falcon’s face. This extreme dislike turned into a vicious rivalry of significant proportions. The Northmen and Falcons have faced off in various arenas already this year and the rivalry’s intensity has been clearly evident. The OP student body appears to have a unanimous opinion on Staley: there’s nothing to like about the Falcons. Students have plenty to say
about the rivalry. Senior soccer player Kyle Tortorilla, made his thoughts clear when he said, “It’s definitely a big rivalry. Bragging rights are a huge deal.” Senior tennis player Jamie Stock also weighed in on playing Staley. “It was really weird playing against Staley. We had such a huge competitive drive in us when we play them because we want to beat them so bad,” Stock said. Stock also commented on the newfound dominance of the StaleyOP rivalry. “[The] Tonka - OP rivalry has been around for so long that I think it’s always going to be a competitive atmosphere, but nothing compared to the rivalry that has been created against Staley. It’s almost like whichever school you attend you have an automatic rivalry against either Oak Park or Staley,” Stock said. This season the great rivalry took off when said and Staley faced off under the Friday night lights and on the hardwood for the first time. Both of these games look to be huge for the schools and expect both to be packed, so if you want to catch a piece of the newest, most intense football rivalry in the Northland get to the DAC early on Thursday, Oct. 28. History is in the making with this rivalry, and no one is going to want to miss it.
‘Shut up and run’ Players recognize success By: Caleb Eissler Writer
The world of sports is filled with loads of smack talk. But when it really comes down to it, athletes believe all that matters is what you do on the field. The cross country team took this to heart with its motto, “Shut up and run!” “I think that the team looks great this year, not only do we have some strong seniors but our underclassmen have really grown a lot stronger and have been able to get their times down,” junior Josh Johnson said. Some of the runners believe state was
within the squad’s reach this season. “I’d say that [senior] Max Pfleiderer and [sophomore] Liban Samatar have a great shot at making state,” Johnson said. Pfleiderer and Samatar medaled at Rimrock and the team placed 11th out of 37 schools. The runners also dominated at conference. “We kicked butt at conference coming in third place in varsity and JV boys,” said sophomore George “Snowflake” Zackert. The team may be silent at its races, according to its motto, but the crowd was as loud as ever.
Losing game wins for cancer fight By: Jessica Nichols Sports Editor Volleying the pink warm-up volleyballs back and forth between their team mates, the girls warmed up for their game against Winnetonka on Monday, Sept. 27. Each team sported a T-shirt supporting the night’s cause: Breast Cancer Awareness. This year marked the second time for outdoor Dig for the Cure games, and the third year. “Dig for the Cure games have been around for quite a while,” coach Candace McCall said. “The first Dig for the Cure volleyball games at NKC in ‘O8 were a huge success, with a big crowd and a lot of money raised, so the coaches involved decided to make it an annual event.”
“I just enjoy playing, so it’s fun for me,” said middle hitter, junior Kim Reichert. Reichert has played volleyball for three years and this is her second year on varsity. Photo by: Kim Green, photo editor
The girls prepared for the game by practicing on the outdoor court which was laid out on the DFS before their match. “It gave the girls a chance to see how different it is outdoors,” McCall said. “Depth perception is different. You have wind to deal with, the sun in your eyes before sunset, then the lights of the stadium after dark.” Once the match started the
Concussions pull players off field Athletes affected by severe blows to the head By: Aggie Rieger Editorial Editor It could happen when you ride your bike, or as you walk down a staircase. It could happen as you play a sport, and it happens here -- concussions. “It’s a blow to the head that causes significant symptoms such as disorientation,” said school nurse Debbie Rippe, who in her seven years as a nurse has seen her share of concussions. “Each one is worse than the one before,” said nurse assistant Rita Greer in the nurse’s office. Rippe described an incident in which a student ran into a gym wall while playing dodge ball in class and was sent to the doctor. The student had no idea what was happening and every few moments asked the same question, “What happened?”
“They must have asked it more than a dozen times,” Rippe said. Symptoms of a concussion include, but are not limited to: dizziness, disorientation, nauseuousness, dilated eyes, lack of concentration and fogginess, an “I’m here, but I’m not here” kind of feeling. “It’s a very individual thing, it depends on the blow to the head,” Rippe said. When a concussion occurs it is important to take adequate time to heal, which ranges. “If you break your arm and have it in a cast, you must give it time to heal; the brain needs this, too,” Rippe said. Concussions affect students academically as well as physically. “It plays out in school, academic things need to be accommodated for, the doctor would indicate this,” Rippe said. This means students might need more time to take tests or do assignments. This was not the case with senior football player William Frazier, who had his first concussion last year during a football game. “I hit someone really
”
“If you break your arm and have it in a cast, you must give it time to heal; the brain needs this, too.”
nurse Debbie Rippe
“
hard,” Frazier said. Frazier was on the ground for a moment before exiting the field to the trainer. “[The trainer] told me to go home, not to go to sleep for a while, he told my parents to watch me,” Frazier said. “The trainer said there was a possibility that I could have gone into a coma.” Coach supported the procedures. “We always follow the advice of the trainer,” said football coach Craig Knaak. “There’s a set policy that the district and state follow with head injuries.” This policy involves athletes easing themselves
back into the sport. Rippe and Knaak agree that it is very important to sit out. “If you have repeated concussions you can have a brain injury, that’s why we have to take it seriously,” Rippe said. “It is important to be honest if you have symptoms. Yes, you’re disappointed that you don’t get to play, but it’s important to rest and get better.” Long term affects from concussions can be mood disorders and depression. “A lot of times kids will hide it because they want to play. They wanna play, they wanna play... A lot of times coaches don’t see it. There’s so many players on the field,” Greer said. Coaches teach ways to avoid injury. “We teach proper techniques, to not lead with the head, make sure their helmet is up to code. The rest comes from how we teach,” Knaak said He said at least two players have had concussions already this year. “It’s real important that they know proper techniques, but some just can’t be prevented because they’re purely accidental,” Rippe said.
girls bumped and spiked. The ball flew from one side of the court to the other. In the end, the Griffins defeated the Northmen, in a relatively close match. “The scores were 20-25 and 20-25,” McCall said. For the girls, losing didn’t mean just being defeated in a game. They realized what cause they played for. “We didn’t have our best game,” junior Kim Reichert said. “But it meant more to people. It wasn’t just a game. It supported a direct cause.” The money raised through the Dig for the Cure games goes to support the Susan G. Komen foundation. This year’s games raised $1,800. “It’s great to have all of us being there, having support, and having pink on,” senior Melissa Youngberg said.
&
with trainer William Ballantyne
Hydration plays a role on the court By: Lauren Grace Writer Q: When is eating and staying hydrated important when playing sports? A: “It’s very important for your body before games, practices, and sporting events. Q: What happens when one does not stay hydrated or eat before a game/practice? A: “All hydrating, heat related illnesses can take place. Body temperature elevates. You could get a heat stroke and faint. You could die of heat stroke. Cramping is also an issue.” Q: How do you deal with people who come to you because
they are not taking the proper steps to stay healthy during a sport season? A: “Luckily, coaches do a good job showing how important it is to stay hydrated. They give the athletes plenty of water breaks . They make my job easier.” Q: How do you treat someone who has passed out because they are not eating or staying hydrated? A: “First of all, you have to see how severe it is. Make sure you cool down the athlete and provide them with, preferrably, water or Gatorade.” Q: Are there certain steps athletes can take to avoid the repercussions of these issues? A: “It is very important that athletes eat fruits and vegetables and drink plenty of water througout the day.”
page 3 opinion
Friday, Oct. 22, 2010
Oakie Opinions
“I still go trick or treating, actually. Everyone loves candy.”
“I find a costume, and go over to a friend’s house, watch scary movies, and give candy to little children”
- senior Joshua Sprang
“Usually, I’d like to go to a party, but if not, I’ll just go trick or treating.” - sophomore Ricardo Solis
-junior Shelbi Arndt
“I just take my little sister trick or treating, I try to make it fun for younger kids since that’s the whole point of Halloween .” -freshman Hannah Williams
Now that you’re in high school, how do you celebrate Halloween?
Seniors try to cope
By: Kaylan Ballard Cartoonist
Managers show responsibility By: Lauren Grace Writer Most of the fall sports now come to an end, and athletes are recognized for making OP proud. People never consider how much work is put into making a team, it’s not just athletes and coaches that do all the work; there are managers that do a great deal of work to make sure the team is at its best. Mangers put a lot of time into helping the team. They’re just regular individuals who have chosen to volunteer for their school as a good deed. “Boys,” said freshmen Hannah Spencer and Amy Loveall, explaining why they manage football. These students could have chosen other ways to spend time in after-school activities, but instead they
wanted to have an experience unlike any other. “I didn’t want to just come home after school, so I chose this. Make friends and go to every game and not have to pay for anything,” Loveall said. Managers do have advantages for participating. Football manager sophomore Devin Whitehead explained they get nice stuff like being a part of the team, being in the team photo and earning a free T-shirt. Some of them do get a letter for participation, but just go for their passion of the sport. Sophomore Abbey Henning loves volleyball and decided to manage for the varsity team. “It’s fun, able to be with the girls and support them,” Henning said. “It’s not hard and you have to
be patient, because I put in just as many hours as the girls do.” Managers have to be responsible students as well because there is no excuse for late work. “It can be time taken out of the day, but flex time helps,” Whitehead said. “The coaches are also lenient, if I need to talk to a teacher that is fine.” Every day they go out there and work with the team and help them get better as well as learn tactics when they play for the next season, like girls tennis managers juniors Justin Tomas and Jonathan Betancourt. “Hitting on the girls, keeps you in shape, it’s not bad for an hour and a half every day,” Tomas said. Tomas and Betancourt play in the spring
for boys tennis team; they both have played since their freshmen year and have done a bit of varsity. “It really helps for the season,” Betancourt said. The amount of help the players need varies depending on the sport. Football players need a lot of pampering. “If it wasn’t for us they would not have water, their balls, some of them can’t even carry their own bags and their pads and shoes,” Spencer said. “Don’t get me started on the bus ride home.” Perhaps it is not that bad in every sport, but it is a lot of work to take care of the teammates and support. “No, no, it’s not real demanding, either way we want to do this anyway,” Tomas said.
Phones in school cause distractions From the Newsroom: 46 years By: Aggie Rieger Editorial Editor
According to Pew Research, 54 percent of all teens around the age of 12-17) are daily texters. About half of us send more than 50 messages a day, and one in three send more than 100. The average American teen even sends 1,500 texts in a single month. Wow. That makes my thumbs hurt just thinking about it, not to mention my head ache as well trying to figure out how I could text and follow along in Algebra II at the same time. Maybe I just can not multitask as well as some. 65 percent of students bring cell phones to school even if they are not allowed on school campus. 64 percent of us admitted to texting in class. Honestly, I would have guessed that percentage to be higher. Phones are not banned here at our school - thank goodness - but the general consensus is that hey, students should not text in class. Questions, comments, concerns? There should not be any. Still, I am not going to lie, students (including myself) do not always follow this rule. And by that, I mean we do not follow this pretty much ever. When I text in class it is because something is going on that needs to be fixed. That or I am begging my mom to bring the homework I left on the kitchen table to school, oops. Others text because they are bored or just do not care and some text for answers. But hey, this is high school, right? No biggie. Texting in class can actually turn out to be a pretty big deal. While most would only mourn the loss of their precious phone should they fail to be sneaky enough to escape the eyes of the teacher, much more can be lost. First is the obvious, education and focus. Duh, right? No teacher will ever recommend to study and text at the same time. Texting in class is a distraction. It is a no-brainer, but apparently we tend to forget about it. You also loose respect, respect to and from teachers and your peers. Texting in class leaves a bad impression on teachers and does not exactly make you look intelligent. Rules might have been made to be broken, but not when it comes to cell phones in school. Too many of us text in class, and I am tired of seeing angry expressions on students’ faces when their phone is taken away. Honestly, I care more about passing my classes.
CORRECTION TO THE SEPT. 24 ISSUE:
Junior Mitch Miller founded the Comedy Club.
weighs down budgets, school
The stage ceiling leaks during rainy days. Theatre students must set out buckets to collect the water backstage in order to prevent damage to one of the places they practically call home. Students can easily point out watermarks and cracked walls. Ceiling tiles don’t always stay where they belong. Ugly carpet graces the child development room, here since the beginning of time. These are just a few problems which affect our now 46-year-old school. And for 46, the building doesn’t look that bad. The new paint, quotes and other remodeling projects have kept the school looking much younger than it actually is, but some of the problems that need to be fixed are be-
Log’s View ing overlooked. This causes students to wonder where their money and the tax payers’ money ends up. The school charges students to park in the lot surrounding the building and the price of a parking pass rose this year. Is the money being used on the paint to make the inside of the school look better? If so, maybe the money could be better divided in order to go toward more improvements on the structural problems. Just because the school looks better from the inside doesn’t
mean it has improved by any means. Covering up the cracks and the damage that has occurred will not make the problems disappear. The new additions to the inside décor may seem nice, but they don’t solve the already existing problems. If the school district spent a portion of the money they receive on repairing damaged parts of the building, students would see a greater improvement and begin to feel better about the school which they already share pride in. Don’t stop adding paintings and quotes to spruce up the inside of the school. Just take time to fix the major problems which seem to take a ride on the back burner.
How the student body has changed By: Courtney Kelley Editor-In-Chief Four years of 83 minutes in class, six-minute passing periods and 25 minute lunches, a routine, every high school student participates in. By the fourth year things start to look differently. Minutes grow longer and days grow into weeks. The anticipation of Wednesday, May 18 is in the eyes of all the seniors. During the wait many grow frustrated by the little things that happen around the school daily. Located next to the bathrooms and cafeteria, the main stairs are the most used stairs in the school, and seem to be the most cluttered and provoking way to get to class. As underclassmen gather around the bottom and block the stairs, students give dirty looks and unneeded shoves. The quote on the windows “Keep on Keepin’ on… Please keep moving to your next class during passing periods!” Was not just on the windows for looks, but was meant to remind students to get to class. Not only getting to the stairs shows problems, but getting on the stairs can be a hassle. There are two staircases, one meant for going up and the other for going down. Taking four minutes to pass through the main stairs and then to be late to class and counted
tardy, was just unfair to students who actually try to get to class on time. Then there is lunch time. Three lunches and a mass amount of empty stomach kids in 25 minutes could be considered crazy. Cutting lines is a huge problem. But some have to in order to have enough time to eat lunch. With so many students who eat lunch at one time, many students find themselves having nowhere to sit with first-come, first-serve on chairs. As winter comes around the corner, that will add even more students in the cafeteria as the courtyards close. Fights around the school are starting to be a trend with the ladies. The pulling of hair, screaming to see how many hateful words can be said before the other says something worse, and then the punching. Hard to believe the cruelty of high school pushes students to the limit, this generation of young adults tests their mental strength everyday between the bullying, name calling, and bad talking your supposed friends. Students seem to focus more on social lives in high school rather than their academic progress. If students started paying more attention to their grades than who is going to fight next, many improvements and respect would show in the student body.
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 Editors Kim Green Johnna Hensley Editorial Editor Aggie Rieger Entertainment Editor Tatyana Pekarsky
Sports Editor & Feature Editor, Business Manager Jessica Nichols Lifestyles Editor Kayla Smith Cartoonist Kaylan Ballard Writers James Coleman Caleb Eissler Lilla Foldi Lauren Grace
Photographers Dylan Kinder Adviser Christina Geabhart
4
Friday, Oct. 22, 2010
page feature
Fall season brings thoughts of candy, hayrides, pumpkins and holidays
Trick-or-treating traditions surpasses age Teenagers still find the fun in childhood activity By: Kayla Smith Lifestyles Editor Children crunch fall leaves under their feet while running in elaborate costumes looking for lit porch lights to collect pieces of sweet Halloween candy. It’s an age old tradition of knocking on doors, saying “Trick or treat” and hoping you get the treat instead of the trick. Although this tradition is widely recognized as an activity for young children, some tend to continue on this annual fun past their early years. “I still trick or treat because I still find it amusing,” said senior Kelsie Roach, “and it’s full of fun and of course you get free candy.” At 17, Roach still continues the trick or treat tradition, and has throughout her entire life. She gets a group of friends together every year and they share in this joyful activity. Although she says nowadays more of her friends go to Halloween parties instead. “Some of the people look at me wondering why I’m
trick or treating,” Roach said, “but other times there will be people amazed that I still have the spirit to do so.” Contrary to popular belief, many students in high school still trick or treat. Sophomore Donovan Munter has since he was five. “I trick or treat because it makes me feel young and free,” Munter said. Munter said he loves to run around and get candy, but says people looked a little shocked because of his age. Juniors Mariah Murphy and Jhala Fisher also carry on this tradition in their teen years. “I like to pick my own costume and get free candy,” said Fisher. Fisher goes with friends, from door to door for this yearly tradition and thinks it’s a holiday and everybody’s supposed to enjoy it. “I still trick or treat because it’s free candy and it’s fun to dress up out of your personal character,” Murphy said. Murphy usually goes with family every year, but says that people tend to ask her “Aren’t you a little too old to be trick or treating?” Many teenagers get asked this question, however one answer can always be. You’re never too old to have Halloween fun.
Check this out before hitting the candy bag Candy Reese’s Peanut Butter Pumpkin Snickers Bar Brach’s Candy Corn Laffy Taffy Skittles Fun-Size Milky Way Bar Original Strawberry Twizzlers Tootsie Rolls Starbursts Fun-Size Twix
Serving Size
Calories
1 package 1 package
210 280
22 pieces 5 bars 1.5 ounces
140 160 170
2 bars
150
4 pieces 6 midgees 1 pack 1 cookie
160 140 240 80
Sources: www.hersheys.com, www.milkywaybar.com, www.snickers. com, www.marshealthyliving.com, www.tootsie.com, www.caloriecount.about.com
Graphic By: Jessica Nichols, Features Editor
To celebrate or not to celebrate By: Caleb Eissler Writer
By: Lauren Grace Writer
A rush of cold air blows through the blazing orange trees. Brightly colored leaves leisurely drift towards the earth. A bright moon shine eerily in the night sky. Kids and even the occasional adult stroll from house to house in an comical array of costumes in search of tasty treats. All of this can mean only one thing: it’s Halloween. Once a satanic holiday, Halloween has been transformed into a day of costumes, candy and fun. People of all ages get to take part in celebrating the event. While most people think of trickor-treating when it comes to Halloween, that’s not the only way to celebrate. There are plenty of ways to enjoy the spooky day. Junior Thomas Baack has his own way of taking part in the festivities. “On Halloween I usually hang out with a group of friends and watch scary movies,” Baack said. A big part of Halloween can be just having a good time with friends. Another way to experience the fun of Halloween is to go to a haunted house. Thousands of people every year pay to have the day lights scared
On the night when the dead rise like the moon in the twilight sky, little boys and girls dress up like mystical creatures. Neighbors either give tricks or treats, for some it is a memorable night as for others it’s just like any other. Halloween celebrates the macabre horrors in the world with the goal of having fun with the community and receiving candy. Though, people may not like the holiday because it conflicts with religion, some do not wish to take risks on this night. “It’s the one time in the year I get candy for free and be thankful for it,” said freshman Karolyn Alspaugh. Most people assume when they hear ‘Anti-Halloween’ one speaks of religious aspects. Christians invented All Saints Day to remember those who have passed on, trying to replace any paganism in Halloween. Muslims do not agree with the holiday either. For it is belief that it celebrates the evil in the world and sacrilegious. “We don’t participate and do not encourage younger children either,” said manager of Islamic Society of Greater Kansas City, Mustafa Hussein. “It is a heathen practice and any religion should
vs.
out of them at these houses. A pretty popular option is going to the Halloween Haunts at Worlds of Fun. Halloween Haunts offers rides, food and haunted houses. Junior Jacob Sullivan encourages this choice. “Halloween Haunt is a great place to go with friends to hang out. It’s a good scare,” Sullivan said. Crowds might be a slight obstacle at Worlds of Fun, but it’s definitely worth it according to Sullivan. Many people follow Baack’s plans and just hang out with friends and watch scary movies. There are plenty of horror movies to come by, so rest assured the local Block Buster will have people covered. Halloween is a holiday of numerous traditions, and no matter which one you take part in or one you create one is bound to have a great time.
not participate in the evil, Christianity should do the same.” Then again there is always the fear of danger, every myth told about the dangers of Halloween started with a horrific story why parents should check candy after going door to door. In 1974, a young boy named Timothy O’ Bryan spent a lovely night with friends and his father, but shortly died on Halloween night because he sipped down a Pixie Stix. After a look at the Pixy Stix, it contained cyanide. The only suspect was the father of the eight-year-old; with little evidence they convicted him and in 1984 sentenced to death. Of course there were the ideas that some crazy neighbor, who had their front lights off, gave them a bunch of Pixy Stix. Though Mr. O’Bryan would have received$40,000 insurance from his son’s death, and just so happened to be in debt. That story killed Halloween for America, and people who remember these facts probably don’t want the risk of their kids be in danger, for no one knows if a man was innocent or a ghoul. Luckily living in America, it allows people to freely celebrate or not. For some it is a time to eat as much candy as they want while dressing up like a maniac, others it is out of respect that they choose not to and it can be a dangerous night with the moon full and risen for the werewolves to dance under.
page 5 feature Red Barn offers a change of pace Friday, Oct. 22, 2010
By: Aggie Rieger Editorial Editor A small family of four walked up a dusty gravel road, dragging a wheel barrow waiting to be filled with pumpkins and gourds behind them. A wheat field surrounded the crowded parking lot and in the distance a rusty red barn could be seen on a hilltop, overlooking happy families and couples. The Red Barn farm has been around for about 21 years in Weston, Missouri; close to 23 minutes away. It started as an educational place where families could come and spend the day together and has grown from there. It was mother Tara Ricci’s first time at Red Barn with her two children. “It’s great. It’s clean and there’s lots of stuff for the kids,” Ricci said. Her son, Thomas’s favorite part was picking pumpkins, while 7-yearold Marissa enjoyed her pony ride the most. “I’m gonna say the pulled pork and apple pie was mom’s favorite part,” Ricci said. The food she mentioned came from The Dinner Bell, Fun Farm Food; a little shack with a long line of people in front of it. Red Barn is a busy place, open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. everyday October thru November. “We’re a real farm all year long,” said farmer and director of fun Steve Fry. Fry and his wife own the farm. “We grow plums, peaches, blueberries...,” the list goes on and on. There is no admission fee for the farm. Rates for other activities such as a corn maze - which all proceeds benefit Farmer’s House, a charity that helps children with autism, and hayrides to the pumpkin patch vary. Alumni Brian Divelbiss was at Red Barn with his father. This father would bring him and how he brings his son. “We’ve been coming out for years, it’s part of tradition,” Divelbiss said. “The atmosphere is real pretty, there’s lots of activities. The hay ride out is my favorite.” Employee Jared Schaefer has been working at Red Barn for a week. He gives tractor rides, a popular activity. “[I get] a couple hundred a day. They like to come out to the pumpkins. It’s nice to get away
from the city,” Schaefer said. Tractor and hay rides take visitors out to the pumpkin patch. Prices for pumpkins range from $5 to $15, depending on the size. “It’s nice, a nice hay ride,” said visitor Liz Reynolds, who was at Red Barn for the second year. “It’s cool to go pick your own pumpkins.” Pumpkins can also be purchased at the pumpkins barn, where rows of pumpkins sit on benches and in the grass, ready to be bought. Employee Carey Greer has been working on and off in the pumpkin patch since her high school years. “Our plan is to have families, to be a fun place to relax. It’s so different from Kansas City,” Greer said. Employee Cody McGee with Scott Grover gives horse rides, feels strongly about the change of pace. “I think that if kids quit playing video games and come out and get a new perspective, they’d see how life really works,” said McGee. “The world’s food supply isn’t made at Price Chopper.” According to McGee, people buy eggs at Red Barn, along with fruit, vegetables and also beef at the country store. No animals are slaughtered at Red Barn; the raw flesh comes from a nearby farm. “The farm is truly green in every retrospect,” McGee said. “We recycled pretty much everything.” McGee’s job is to supply horses, give horse rides and “control two 160-pound animals.” Horses aren’t the only animals at Red Barn. “They love seeing animals and petting animals,” said worker Chris Welborn as he lifted a bale of hay. He helps run the pumpkin barn and gives tours. “The kids like animals and pumpkins. Seems like kids the best,” said parent Joe Shojayi, there with his family for the third time. The interest in the animals is clear as one approaches any of the animals in barns and coops. “They’re so cute,” said one little girl to another. People can learn about animals and agriculture they might have never expected to see like a barn mouse ran in and out of its pen. “Oh my, that’s
Every year dozens of families visit Red Barn Farm. Children of all ages gather to pick pumpkins, walk the corn maze and ride the hayride. Photos by: Kim Green, photo editor
strange,” said another woman, referring to a white turkey. Across the way there were more animals, including goats and chickens. “Look at their pretty blue eyes,” said a mother, leaning close to a flock of geese with her children. Visitor Roxane Wilson’s favorite part of Red Barn is the animals. “Little girls [and boys] get to pet them and do things they normally don’t get to do,” Wilson said. Employee Ray Bond, who gives hay rides recommend coming earlier in the day, since Red Barn starts getting busier at 11 a.m. “The earlier the better in the day,” Bond said. Pumpkin yard worker Carol Monroe agrees. She has been working at Red Barn for three years and recommends coming out early, too. “Come out early, give yourself time to see everything,” Monroe said. Visitor Tammy Reid recommends bringing a wagon and not dressing up. “It’s fun and enjoyable for all ages,” Reid said. The only time people do dress up for Red Barn is for parties, weddings and Halloween. “Kids come out with costumes, but we don’t play it up,” Monroe said. Directions on how to get to Red Barn and all its activities is located on Red Barn’s website, www.redbarn.com. “We’re definitely coming back soon,” Ricci said.
There are several selections of pumpkins and gourds at Red Barn farm, including many different types of miniature pumpkins. Some are white and blue, while others are the average orange.
Pumpkin Crunch Recipe 1 (15 oz.) can pumpkin puree 1 (12 fl. oz.) can evaporated milk 4 eggs 1 ½ c. sugar 2 t. pumpkin pie spice 1 t. salt 1 (18.25 oz.) pkg. yellow cake mix 1 c. chopped pecans 1 c. margarine, melted 1 (8 ox.) container frozen whipped topping, thawed 1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Lightly grease one 9x13 inch baking pan. 2. In a large bowl, combine pumpkin, evaporated milk, eggs, sugar, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. Mix well, and spread into the prepared pan. 3. Sprinkle cake mix over the top of pumpkin mixture, and pat down. Sprinkle chopped pecans evenly over the cake mix, and then drizzle with melted margarine. 4. Bake for 60 to 80 minutes, or until done. Top with whipped topping when ready to serve. 5. Yields 18 servings
Recipe Courtesy of: Angelene Chritton
Scary movies haunt dreams, Halloween night ‘Saw’ series finally done Top 10 favorite horror movies By: Tatyana Pekarsky Entertainment Editor
In 2004, James Wan’s ‘Saw’ engulfed fans in a new kind of fear with 103 minutes of horrific traps and torture. Every Halloween since then, fans of gore and psychological thrill have looked forward to another tale in the ‘Saw’ series. This series has inspired many torture films over the years, though one could argue that they aren’t as psychological, or even as good. The first movie, despite some horrid dialogue due to improvisation, was quite interesting and spine-tingling. Fans were left wondering what ever happened to Dr. Gordon, played by Cary Elwes, who is said to return to the last film. The second, no doubt very creative and suspenseful, hit fans hard with the twist of Jigsaw’s apprentice. The idea of another person taking on the job of Jigsaw led the way into the series, offering more movies and twist endings. However, the third movie was a disappointment. The traps, while horrific and related to the sins of one, seemed to be more focused on pain and gore, taking away the psychological thrill of the
movie. Yet despite the awful traps and dislikable characters, then ending did have a nice twist, which has become a constant in the series. The fourth movie focused on Agents Straum and Perez as they search for SWAT Commander Rigg, who has found himself in one of Jigsaws traps. Here, it is revealed that Jigsaw had, yet another, apprentice, who is closer to the FBI than anyone knows. The movie was fairly good, though many can see the predictability appearing form here on out. If it weren’t for the few important key points made in this film, it would best be skipped. In short, this movie was terrible; the plot was extremely predictable, characters were frustrating, and there was no twist ending. Luckily, the sixth helped bring the fifth back up. With traps that include groups of people and William Easton to decide who lives or dies, you’ll find yourself on the edge of your seat and biting your nails. The series has been a roller coaster for the plots and twist endings, which means the seventh will have to make up for all the disappointments. “Saw 3D” comes out in theaters Friday, Oct. 29.
Students, faculty pick their top scares Halloween - 18% Nightmare on Elm Street - 13% The Grudge - 11% Friday the 13th - 10% The Hills Have Eyes - 10% Texas Chainsaw Massacre - 10% The Excorcist - 8% Jeepers Creepers - 8% The Blair Witch Project - 7% The Amityville Horror - 5% *Survey of 100 students and faculty
Friday, Oct 22nd, 2010 6 lifestyles New task brings huge struggles page
By: James Coleman Writer Juniors Madi Gipson, Ryan Fincham and Kira McKiddy began this year with a whole new task; a part-time job. Juggling school and work became a struggle and whole new look on life for these three students. Gipson, currently employed at Big Baby Pizzeria and Pub, works 28 hours a week. Balancing both causes lack of sleep. “I go to school, take a
nap and go to work,” Gipson said. “Already having a nap and more studying I go to sleep about 12:30 a.m.” Gipson said she thinks it’s worth it because she is able to save money for car and college. Fincham works at Taco Bell 25 hours a week and struggles in keeping his grades up. “No time for homework, straight to work after school and homework makes grades suffer,” Fincham said. Fincham also said he
Homecoming Brief
believes it’s worth it so he can have money to go out and participate in activities. He’s able to take his new girlfriend out, and having money creates a good time for him. McKiddy is employed at CVS and works 15 hours a week. McKiddy said working lead to her quitting band and choir for more hours at work. “I’ve done band since sixth grade, choir was really fun,” McKiddy said. “I’m going to miss it, but I need the money for gas and clothes.”
All three students are more motivated and focused on work. “Work pays, school doesn’t,” Gipson said. Being more motivated and focused towards work, seems to bring grades down for these three students. They all agree on being disappointed in their grades this year. “I’m more motivated for work; I don’t know why it’s just different from school, school’s boring and work I actually like,”Fincham said.
By: Kaylan Ballard, cartoonist
Second chance to graduate Students recieve help that best fits them By: James Coleman Writer
eniors Haley Rocha and Abbey Schoenrade congratulate 2010 Homecoming queen Hero Khizipour. Rocha and Schoenrade were Khizipour’s banner holders. Photo by: Sydney Bennett, special to the Log
Khizipour named queen Festivities for homecoming kept students busy with the assembly, pep rally, game and the dance. The crowning of the queen excited the student body and tied all the festivities together. “The best moment was when everyone was around me, I was so shocked,” said senior Hero Khizirpour.
On Friday, Oct. 8, Oak Park played Winnetonka in the football game, and the 2009 homecoming queen Blaire White crowned Khizirpour during half time. “Just like every girl would be surprised, all the girls deserved it.” Khizirpour said. After a loss to Winnetonka, Saturday, Oct. 9 was the homecoming dance, “Fly Me to the Moon.”
Struggling with graduating? Well, you have an opportunity to join an alternative program to catch up and graduate on time. Reasons why students may need to join vary, such as being behind in credits, prefering smaller group setting, or even health issues. Counselors determine what program best fits for the student. Programs require students to apply; this decides if they meet requirements. Students’ reasons determine the decision. No program is designed for students who skip, or refuse to do work. “Get in program matters on the students’ needs,” counselor Judith Wake said. “A student behind a whole year or 10 credits qualify.” Students should understand these programs consist only of student who attempt to improve their mistakes and have the desire to graduate and become successful. “Students who want and need help will get help if they come see us,” Wake said, wanting students to know that it actually takes effort. Horizons, is an alternative
program here for freshmen and sophomores. In the morning, student attends classes at a different building with one teacher for three hours. Students are taught everything on computer, and arrives back to Oak Park in afternoons for their elective classes. Missouri options, another popular alternative program here, is designed for just seniors. Attending school two hours a day and then either go to work, or participate in elective classes. You’re required to take a pretest and if you pass you’re admitted in the program. Senior Britany Colen, one of many students who attend Missouri options, explained she didn’t pull in full effort in high school and unfortunately Missouri options was her only option in graduating. Colen said she believes students should do regular high school. “No one should want to join this program,” Colen said. “Not getting the same education.” It does create a better environment to study, there are less people than regular high school and you’re able to work at your own pace. It does not give same education or opportunities that regular
high school would. “I am happy though that I have a second chance,” Colen admits. “Gives me the chance to prove that I can do better and change my mistakes.” Both programs require mandatory attendance, if students fail to go it will lead to possible dropout and back to high school. If you succeed in a program, you’ll get your general North Kansas City diploma. Programs allow students to also do elective classes, which gives them a chance to participate in what they might want to be when they grow up. “I plan on going to college for child care after this, before joining had no thought of college,” Colen said. “[These] programs only way some students will graduate,” Wake said trying to let students perceive that programs aren’t a waste of time and that you’ll get your diploma. “If student accomplishes program, they will actually have life after high school.” So, instead of struggling and thinking of dropping out go see your counselor and see if a program is for you.
Friday, Oct. 22, 2010
Entertainment event calender Concerts
page 7 entertainment Clubs provide outlets By: Lauren Grace and Tatyana Pekarsky Writer and Entertainment Editor
Saturday, Oct. 23, Freakers Ball 2010 with Five Finger Death Punch, Sevendust, Drowning Pool, 10 Years at Midland Theater Thursday, Oct. 28, Queensryche at Voodoo, Harrah’s Casino Saturday, Oct. 30, Tech N9ne’s Independent Grind Tour at Uptown Theater Saturday, Oct. 30, Roger Waters: The Wall Live at Sprint Center Wednesday, Nov. 3, Shinedown at Midland by AMC Thursday, Nov. 4, Lifehouse at Uptown Theater
Science Olympiad
A group better than a regular science class, where members build inventions, conduct experiments and then compete. You do not have to be a nerd to join, get to know other people who love the same subject and have a good time. The club meets at 2:20 p.m. on Wednesdays in E206. “It’s fun, [I joined because of] my brother. Every one is cool except Jessica,” said president junior Janet Meier.
Games 10/26 Rock Band 3 (Wii, Xbox360, DS, PS3) Star Wars: The Force Unleashed II (Wii, Xbox 360, PSP, DS, PS3) The Sims 3 (Xbox 360) Fable III (360)
Playing Anime Double Jeopardy on Tuesday Sept. 12, during the Anime/Gamer Club meeting, junior Anthony Vorngsam and Makala Mobley read their team’s next question. This was Vorgsam’s first year in the club. “Hanging out with people who have the same interests, I think that is the best part.” Photo by: Kim Green, photo edi- Co-President of Art Club, senior Shannon Tinkey forms her clay into a bowl after school on Wednestor day Sept. 13 during Art Club. This was Tinkey’s first
discuss anime, manga and games year in art club. “I love how all these people who love art can come together and create these aweStart the day off with a group with others who enjoy. Sponsored some things.” Photo by: Kim Green, photo editor by art teacher Jamie Curtis, fans excited about their faith and who want to put it in their daily school meet every Tuesday after school in even raise money. Art Club is held W101. life. every Wednesday after school in “We play some games to break room W103. Mythology Club the ice, but then we have a lesInterested in Greek, Roman, son. It’s uplifting to start your day. Book Club Great fellowship and have people Norse, or other mythology? Then Open up to school while opentalk to communication arts teachers I can talk to about my faith,” said ing up to books. Communication Tim Rupp and Sara Hantzis about leader junior Abby Fish. arts teacher Sara Hantzis meets Join the group on Friday joining Mythology Club. While the with students after school or on the club is run by Staley communicamornings at 6:30 a.m. in N153. tion arts teacher Karen Eickhoff, weekends to read and discuss novstudents from either school are els. AFS “Reading doesn’t have to be Interested in what other peo- free to join. They meet every sec- just for school,” Hantzis said. ond and fourth Tuesday of each ple think? AFS International helps foreign exchange students meet month in Eickhoff’s room at Staley.
11/2 Conduit 2 (Wii) Goldeneye 007 (DS) God of War: Ghost of Sparta (PSP)
Elevate
11/4 Gran Turismo (PS3) Xbox Kinect 11/9 Call of Duty: Black Ops (Wii, DS, Xbox 360, PS3) 11/16 Assassin’s Creed: Brotherhood (PC, Xbox 360, PS3)
Movies 10/22 “Paranormal Activity 2” “Herafter” “The Company Men” “Inhale”
friends who want to learn about their culture as they learn ours. Five young women are visiting our school, which gives a variety of different cultures to meet. Meeting are Mondays at 6:30 p.m. in the cafeteria
10/29 “Monsters” “Saw 3D” “The Girl Who Kicked the Hornet’s Nest” 11/5 “Megamind” “Due Date” “127 Hours”
Thespians
Do you love acting and want to do more on or behind the stage? Thespians enable students who are serious about drama and provides the opportunity to meet other talented actors in the school. “It is a great outlet for students, we have a lot of fun and enjoy each other’s company we are one family,” said junior Alex Stompoly. They meet on the first Tuesday of the month in the Green Room.
11/12 “Unstoppable” “Skyline” “Morning Glory”
Books 10/26 “The Christmas Journey” by Donna VanLiere “A Christmas Odyssey” by Anne Perry “The Confession” by John Grisham “Dangerous to Know” by Tasha Alexander “First Family: Abigail and John Adams” by Joseph J. Ellis “The Last Run: A Queen & Country Novel” by Greg Rucka “The Marriage Artist” by Andrew Winer “My Nest Isn’t Empty, It Just Has More Closet Space: The Amazing Adventures of an Ordinary Woman” by Lisa Scottoline “The True Memoirs of Little K” by Adrienne Sharp
Bowling Club
Bowling Club is an opportunity to meet people and have fun after school. Not only do they have competitions. For more information about bowling, talk to physical education coaches and join the fun.
Blue on the Move
Anyone who loves to dance and wants to share their talent can join Blue on the Move. Meet people who love it just the same and learn from each other. They show off the choreography at assemblies. “I think that people should join it because it’s a lot of fun and a good experience for anyone that wants to get involved in school activities,” said sophomore Brenden Grinnell. Practices are held in the cafeteria after school from 2:30-3:30 p.m. on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday
Hula Hotties
Dance like no one is watching; join a dance group that loves mixing culture with fun dance moves. It is a great way to meet new people and experience something different. Shake it up for once and join Hula Hotties by asking sponsor Arianne Fortune.
Art Club
Handling clay and painting isn’t all fun and games. The memThere is a special club for hardbers of Art Club use their artistic core gamers and otaku; Anime/ love to express themselves and Gamer Club. Here, students can
Anime/Gamer Club
10/28 “Coming Back: A Sharon McCone Mystery” by Marcia Muller
FCA
Fellowship Christian Athletes is a place to have fun and share your beliefs. Start the day off playing a game and then hear a lesson on how to bring God into daily life. “We have a lesson, the leaders give it or outside speakers from different churches. One week we will serve food or have a gym day. We also have worship,” said a leader junior Leah Frisby. The club meets Wednesday mornings at 6:45 a.m. in the little theater.
Key Club
Take part in the community and build character by volunteering with a group of altruistic students. Not only should it be fun, but great for college and to earn A+ hours if students want to receive accomplishment. “I think it’s good and you get to return to the community, after they give so much to the school, instead of always taking and build courage,” said vice-president Shawn Moore. For information on how to join see gifted teacher Lori Dameron.
Collins makes readers hunger for more games By: Lauren Grace Writer The cold winter breeze flows in, a good time to relax and read a book. Sometimes it’s hard to find one that will actually stay interesting and capture the imagination of the readers. In the “Hunger Games” by Suzanne Collins, it fits this qualification of an excellent book. As one falls into the
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words of the tale, it is an easy enjoyment filled with adventure mixed with gladiators and “Survivor.” Not only intoxicating, but also a candidate for the Gateway Award. This novel can be found in the school library, though they have six copies, which tend to always disappear from the shelves. “I would be surprised if it does not win,” said media specialist Patricia
Stancil. The story begins by explaining a suppressed livelihood of a young girl named Katniss, who has taken the father role for her mom and younger sister, Prim. From the ages 12 to 18 children put their name into a raffle, but if one’s name gets drawn they are forced to play the Hunger Games. Prim, who just turned 12, put her name in for the
very first time and out of all the little pieces of paper that were scrounged through, her name was drawn. For the love of her sister, Katniss takes her sister’s place instead. Excitement after excitement, Katniss makes friends and understands the vulgar society that she lives in as she tries to survive from others out to get her to the wild creatures that starve for her
blood. It can be sad at times and the beginning takes along time to understand their history and society. Though the details are colorful and vibrant like a mural painting, it keeps one interested. “It is full of adventure, the characters are interesting and based on the most cunning, or out smart your opponent. Fun read that leaves you
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8
page photo essay
Friday, Oct. 22, 2010
‘Puttin’ on the Ritz’
Choirs perform in first concert
Dancing and singing for a packed house, senior Savannah Peterson and junior Jordan Cook perform for the show. The group performed portions from their competition show. Oak Street was working on a competition show; and Peterson said, “I think we are setting a good pace. We have a lot of work to do still, but at the rate were going by competition we should be ready.” Peterson was in her first year in Oak Street. Photo By: Johnna Hensley, photo editor Singing during the choir concert on Tuesday, Oct. 7, senior Sean Shockney sings and dances during the Mixed Chorus. Shockney said his favorite part of choir is, “Mainly the people in it. It really gives me a chance to express myself, music has a lot of emotion.” Shockney was in three choirs and has been singing since sixth grade. Photo By: Dylan Kinder, photographer
Junior Bradley Stompoly, dancing with senior Becca Bliss, said, “A Cappella is viewed as a choir that sings very traditional music. But our music is extremely fun; and we have a fantastic time showing people why we love to sing.” Stompoly has been involved in choir for seven years, and has been in Oak Street and A Cappella for the last two years and was in Solid Oak his freshman year. Photo By: Johnna Hensley, photo editor
On Thursday, Oct. 7, the Oak Street Singers strut their stuff to “Puttin’ on the Ritz,” the closer to their competition show. “This year’s show is far from anything Oak Street’s done before. It’s going to show off our versatility, and definitely gives us some chances to showcase our vocal power as well,” said senior Derek Byrne. Photo By: Johnna Hensley, photo editor Hitting her notes, freshman Bethany Buckland sings “Singing” with her fellow choir mates. Buckland said her favorite part of the concert was “being able to sing with other people who like to do the same thing.” Photo By: Dylan Kinder, photographer