Trojan Bluesteak Issue4

BLUESTREAK 1744 N. Andover Rd. Andover, KS 67002 Volume 32 Issue 4 December 10, 2014

Guys and Dolls Review pg. 8-9

what’s inside >> New Andover Children’s Home pg. 6-7

WSU Basketball Preview pg. 20-21

News

in-depth feature

D.C. Trip The AHS Plague Blood Drive Andover Children’s Home Not Just A Number Teen Pregnancy Over-Parenting

3 3 3 4-5 14-15 16-17 18-19

Reams Runs Half Marathon 6-7 8-9 Fall Matinee 10-11 DIY Nails 12 Do a little good More than just a number 13

EDITORIAL

Sports

2

Contents Dec. 10, 2014

Meg Plank editor-in-chief Ashli Ellerman managing editor Anna Schrag design editor fun editor Megan Curry copy editor Madi Hearne visuals editor Lily Farha business manager Gloria Mares news editor Paige Schlitter photo editor Hayley Landers assistant photo editor Kristen McPherson online photo editor Madison Martinez features editor/ columnist Haley Rowe columnist Grant Cohen sports editor Elizabeth Hartley writing coach

WSU Basketball Preview 20-21 22-23 Broken Records

pop culture

BLUESTREAK STAFF

Brittiany Clark in-depth editor Monica Goldberg content editor Abby Beaver page editor Katherine Dakan web editor

Modern Music If you ruled AHS...

24-27 28

Addy Maples pop culture editor Yousef Krichati social media editor Carly Flake writer/photograher Josh Norlin cartoonist Cary Conover adviser

Andover “Plague”

The Andover “plague” hit the population of students at the beginning of November, but the sickness has slowed down since then. Many kids at Andover caught the sickness but managed to recover in about a week.

The plague was similar to the common flu. Many of the symptoms were similar to the flu; it consisted of a lot of coughing, a sore throat, stomachaches and headaches. Many students caught the sickness from each other, so it was definitely contagious.

Recovery consisted of taking medicine for coughing and headaches.

“It was really awful, my body was sore and I had headaches, a sore throat, and I was coughing a lot. It took me a week to feel completely better and I took different kinds of medicine to help me recover,” said junior Drake Short, one of the affected students.

–elizabethHARTLEY

AHS Journalists Visit Washington, D.C.

Members of AHS journalism staffs had the opportunity to take a trip to Washington, D.C. November 5th through 9th. The Journalism Education Association’s Fall National High School Journalism Convention took place at the Marriott Wardman Park and attracted over 6,000 students. Hundred of sessions were offered, all taught by speakers who work in the journalism field and have experience with designing pages and writing stories. Many of the students entered contests and were successful in their categories. Andover’s delegation brought home one superior rating, one excellent rating and seven honorable mentions.

Other than the journalism aspect of the trip, there was also a lot a sightseeing going on throughout the week. The staff saw many famous monuments and buildings like the Washington Monument, the Lincoln Memorial, the Capitol building, and took a tour of The White House. They walked around the city and visited many landmarks and sites throughout DC.

“I thought the trip was exciting. I liked exploring new places and furthering my knowledge in the journalism realm,” junior Hayley Helmer.

–elizabethHARTLEY

Blood Drive Summary

The blood drive was held at the school on November 7th and was very successful. The students who volunteered during the blood drive were students working to get hours for National Honor Society and other volunteers were adults helping out.

“Everyone who donated gave a pint of blood. The overall time I waited was about three hours but it only took about 5 minutes for the person to actually draw my blood,” said junior Maddy Bishop.

Seventy-one donors attempted to give blood but only six were deferred because they were not able to give blood for any reasons, such as issues with their iron levels. Sixty-three units of blood were donated on the day of the drive, passing their goal of 62 units. The 63 units donated were enough to help up to 189 hospital patients over the holidays. Nurses from Red Cross helped out by taking blood and bringing it to the hospital.

“Our goal for next year is to be more efficient during the drive. Over 95 people signed up to donate and the goal was 62 so that is really great. We also had a huge amount of walk-ins come and donate. One person’s donation is enough to help about three people. We had a really great turnout,” said one of the teachers in charge of the blood drive, Andrea Daugherty.

–elizabethHARTLEY

3

News Dec. 10, 2014

Home Is Where the Heart Is Teens make positive impact on new children’s home in Andover

Alexandra Jones, official Kids For Kids(K4K) coordinator year-end cash donations,” Andover High School K4K club sponfor the past eight years, smooths back her hair and tries to relax. sor Jane Harwell said.

Besides, the stress was mostly over. Preparations for the much Among the anticipated Christmas event, K4K hosts many anticipated event had been in motion for months. The number other generous events that fulfill the needs of underprivileged of late hours, fund-raisers, and jittery nerves would soon collide children and the agencies that back them. full-speed to create one tremendous moment.

“We host a clothing drive every year as well. We used to be As the double doors opened to reveal the first of many able to lay out the donated clothes on racks and tables, so that unfamiliar faces, Jones realized that almost all of them looked children from the Wichita’s Childrens Home could browse freemore nervous than she did. Most of them skimmed the room, ly and choose their own attire. [The K4K club members] would clearly overwhelmed with the dozens of tables overflowing with watch kids come in and pick up their old pair of jeans, and see various gifts and packages. Many of the younger children took [the children] get so excited about it. The students thought: a moment to gaze adoringly at the deco‘Wow, I can take these things I don’t need and make someone rations and lights, their smiles growing else really happy with it,” Jones said.

“A lot of people think, exponentially to reveal cherished smiles.

Though the club is greatly appreciated ‘these are just high schoolOver the course of a day, these foster amidst those that come across its generous ers, they don’t do anychildren will have the opportunity to beneficiaries, Jone believes the club does not ‘shop’ and choose Christmas presents. Algets the ‘recognition they deserve.’ thing’. But, I’ll tell you, I though the children will spend generous “I don’t think that, as high schoolers, the have worked with so many amounts of time picking and choosing club members get the respect they deserve in amazing students that have the community. A lot of people think, ‘these products, these gifts will not be for themselves. In fact, the children are picking helped the club immensely. are just high schoolers, they don’t do anyand choosing gifts to give to their foster thing’. But, I’ll tell you, I have worked with -Alexandra Jones parents and families. so many amazing students that have helped The joy experienced during this the club immensely. I sometimes call newspaannual event and many other events like it is owed solely to pers and ask them if they’ll cover us giving something like a big the K4K club, with membership available to both Andover and check to an agency, and they aren’t that interested. It’s a shame Andover Central High School students. The club has just over because they’re just a great group doing some great things for 100 members including both of the district schools. the community,” Jones said.

“Our mission is basically kids helping kids. We aid the unThe underprivileged children in the community are not the derprivileged children in the community,” Jones said. only ones appreciative of the experience.

K4K corresponds with many organizations and agencies that “Everyone loves helping with the events, donations and all support young people in need. One of these special organithings. It’s a lot of hard work, but knowing that you’re doing zations, Sunlight Children’s Advocacy and Rights Foundation something great for someone else, to make their lives easier, is (SCARF), has recently established themselves in the Andover what pays it all off,” Jones said. area by building Sunshine Children’s Home. SCARF takes in K4K will host many other events throughout the school year kids from around the region, and places them in homes created that provide clothes, food, toys, and more for many underprivito support children in need. Sunshine Children’s Home resides leged kids throughout the area. They will raise over 10,000 dolon the outskirts of Andover. The home is able to house up to 15 lars in donations to give to agencies and organizations in need of kids of varying ages and diversities. a few helping hands.

“The organization which operates the home usually sends “The students have made such a positive impact on the comkids to ‘It’s A Kid’s Christmas,’ and has been a recipient of our munity. I could not be prouder,” Jones said.

“

-maddieMARTINEZ

4

NEWS Dec. 10, 2014

A Home for Everyone

What is included in the children’s home

8 8

Sunshine Children’s Home

Bathrooms Bedrooms Children

15

photo courtesy www.scarfks.org

>>The new Children’s Home in Andover provides a safe and open environment for young children who have been removed from their home environment for numerous issues. The home can care for up to 15 children at a time.

NEWS Dec. 10, 2014

5

Leaving a Mark

Andover High history teacher trains and runs half marathons Although Brad Reams began running in junior high, it was not until three years ago that Reams decided to run half marathons.

“I started running half marathons partly because I felt like it was something that my wife and I could do together,” Reams said.

Reams was also curious as to whether he could still run after 20 years without consistent training.

“I do a lot of cross-training but I still haven’t put in as much mileage as I know I should,” Reams said.

Head Coach Justin Hill believes that the passion Reams has for running makes up for his lack of a higher mileage.

“It’s nice to have another coach with experience in running. It also - bradREAMS helps him identify with the runners,” Hill said.

As second year cross country coach, Reams understands the physical strain running places on the body.

“As a coach, I think it’s important to know what your athletes are going through,” said Reams.

Reams feels that being able to participate with the athletes inspires them to run because they have a coach who can accomplish goals with them.

“

“There are many good coaches who don’t have to prove they can do certain activities for their team, but I think it helps encourage them to do better,” Reams said.

The physical benefits of running continue to motivate Reams. However, his running also often supports a cause or charity. Over fall break, Reams participated in the Say Grace 5k, whose mission is “to show and share the love of Jesus Christ by providing compassionate, accessible, high-quality healthcare for residents of south central Kansas.”

“During these races, I don’t really try for a new best time. For me, this is about having fun and supporting the cause, and if I get a new time out of it, that’s even better,” Reams said.

Even while Reams’s half marathons are more time-driven than the 5k, his goal is to see any improvement. He says that after unrelated injuries, no permanent damage was made and he can still continue his passion for running without any hindrances.

“There are usually less injuries in running because it is not as stressful on the body in comparison with contact sports,” Hill said.

While Reams’s first passion was baseball, over time he realized the importance of staying in shape through cardio.

“This is a lifelong sport. You can run to stay in shape or on a competitive level. [Reams] proves that anyone can run, no matter their age, height or any other factors,” Hill said.

“My whole family has always liked [running] and it’s something we can all do together,”

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Feature

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-gloriaMARES

By the numbers...

2:02.57 92 ...is the World Record for a full marathon achieved by Kenyon Dennis Kimetto in Berlin.

...year old Gladys Burrill is the oldest female to ever run a marathon finishing with a time of 9:53.

52,000

556

...is the the average amount of footsteps taken throughout the entire race.

3

...year old Budhia Singh is the youngest person to finish a marathon.

...total marathons are hosted in 71 different countries.

583,564 ...people finished a marathon in 2013.

How to train...

1.Gradually Runbuild your running economy and endurance, while incorporating ample recovery time for your body to handle the new training load.

2. Hydrate While training, carry a water bottle for continuous hydration.

During the race, water stands will be stationed along the way, so be sure to stop at every station.

3. fuel

During the race, your body is bound to “hit a wall�, be sure to test out various types of fuel on your training runs to see what your stomach tolerates best, so you can fuel confidently on race day.

Feature Dec. 10, 2014

7

Fall Musical: Guys & Dolls Kellie Rieg

Hanna Watson

Taariq Gamal El-Din

Senior

Junior

Senior

Character: Sarah Brown

Character: Miss Adelaide

Character: Nathan Detroit

“I enjoyed the challenge of adding interest to the character’s dull storyline.”

“I loved playing “It was fun bea character that cause I got to be creative with my is so different character’s from who I am.”

Nathan Emond Freshman

Character: Lt. Brannigan

“It was hard to be such a strict character.”

personality.”

Matinee of Roaring Adventures

The theatre department put on quite a show for their traditional fall production. The musical Guys & Dolls, originally composed by Frank Loesser in 1950, is a New York-based 1950s story of “love and good-natured illegal gambling.”

“Basically it’s about a bunch of crap shooters trying to find a place to shoot crap and get some money while the Save A Soul Mission keeps getting in their way,” freshman Ellie Shook and hot box dancer in the production said.

Thespian Troop #3540 collectively put in thousands of hours preparing for the show. Putting on three performances requires a great deal of hard work and effort from the cast and crew.

Props had to be built and painted, costumes had to be made, and rehearsals needed to occur regularly.

The cast and crew are required to put in at least seven set hours working on props or helping with costumes. Many went above and beyond their call of duty.

“I put in 200+ hours for this production. This includes my

8

FEATURE Dec. 10, 2014

set hours and the 30 hours I spent choreographing and what I spent at rehearsals and for memorizing my lines,” said senior Kellie Rieg, who played the part of Sergeant Sarah.

Theatre is an outlet for many members. Many thespians will say getting involved in theatre was one of best decisions of their high school career.

“My brother was in theatre and I wanted to follow in his footsteps, so I tried out for a show and haven’t been able to get out since,” Rieg said.

Just like many sports teams, when a student joins theatre, they are not just joining a club or getting a class credit—they are joining a family.

“My favorite part of participating in productions is being able to entertain the audience and getting so close with the cast and crew,” Rieg said.

Overall, the fall musical was a success thanks to the many dedicated students and director Sarah Koehn. However, thanks to their faithful devotion, the show did go on, and go on it did.

- meganCURRY

Chase Crenshaw

Noah Torgerson

Senior

Senior

Character: Harry the Horse

Character: Benny Southwest

“It was fun getting to be someone else.”

{

Photos by Reilly Peare

Dawson Wagner

Alex Tauke

Sophomore

Senior

Character: Nicely-Nicely Johnson

Character: Sky Materson

“It was fun “The hardest “It was tough messing with the part was to keep to execute my accent and each the accent lines in the monight it changed.” going.” ment.”

“ Being in the play wasn’t intimidating and I felt very welcomed,” - Nick Linhardt

}

FEATURE

Dec. 10, 2014

9

Nailed It

AHS Sophomore Uses Artistic Ability on Nails Many students at Andover have hobbies, from ping-pong to knitting to pottery. Lauren Marion, a sophomore at Andover High, has taken her hobby of nail art to the next level. What was once just a simple way to relax has become a challenging and intricate activity.

“A friend of mine got me into it! I am self taught and learned mostly through looking at pictures and trying to recreate them,” Marion said.

Marion has always been interested in art and fashion, and her nails became a way for her to accessorize and express herself without going shopping.

“I find inspiration for new designs on Pinterest. My favorite winter nail trend is any manicure that involves snow,” Marion said.

The first design she learned was chee-

tah print, and she has since experimented with many others, including a galaxy landscape, tribal print, feathers, and florals.

Marion estimates she owns over a hundred different nail polishes and has painted over a thousand different designs since she began her hobby in sixth grade.

“The trick to a perfect manicure is to avoid getting polish on the cuticle. It makes it look so much neater,” Marion said.

Despite her immense talent, Marion does not plan to pursue a career in nail art, but is considering cosmetology. She has done friends’ hair, makeup, and nails for events like homecoming and prom.

“Lauren did my makeup for the homecoming football game and she was so sweet and did an amazing job,” senior Riley Flake said.

-carlyFLAKE

How To Nail It The S hape

10

The Polish

Rounded -Rounded shape is the most natural looking and is best if you have brittle nails.

Square -Square shaped nails are the strongest, but are not flattering on short nails.

French Manicure -This the best option if you are looking for a classic look. To spice up your french manicure get a colored tip.

Pattern -Tribal prints and chevron patterns make for a great party look.

Squoval -Rounded edges are the most popular and flattering shape.

Almond -Almond nails are the most “edgy” but are hard to maintain.

Shellac -Shellac is the longest lasting polish. It is also more durable than regular polish.

Accent Finger -Adding a different design to your ring finger gives your manicure something differnet.

FEATURE Dec. 10, 2014

Nails on Fleek

Photos Courtesy of Lauren Marion

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11

FEATURE Dec. 10, 2014

EDITORIAL

staff

Do A Little Good

>> annaSCHRAG Staffer Discusses Mentality and Personality of Our Generation Nothing is ever enough for most people in my generation, including myself. The other day I overheard someone around my age complain that they had to wait until Christmas to receive a certain shirt. With the holiday season approaching I think it needs to be recognized that our society has a major issue: being ungrateful. We need a change.

I remember when it did not matter the amount of ‘likes’, followers and favorites anyone got on social media, what mattered was that you invited the person who didn’t have anyone to sit with at lunch to sit with you because everyone deserves to feel wanted. Now everyone is so consumed in themselves and how they appear to others. If things have gone so wrong in just a few years is it not possible to fix this problem in half that time?

Take a step out of your shoes and put yourself in the life of someone who struggles to make ends meet; how do you think that person feels when you’re complaining that you can’t have the shirt until Christmas? They prob-

editorial policy

The Trojan Bluestreak exists to inform, persuade and entertain its readers concerning topics of importance. The newspaper recognizes all rights and responsibilities under the First Amendment.

The Bluestreak operates as a public forum for student expression and the staff takes full responsibility for newspaper content and its ramifications.

The Trojan Bluestreak will not publish material considered to be legally unprotected speech, libel, obscenity copyright infringement,unwarranted invasion of privacy or material that could disrupt the educational environment.

The Bluestreak is a CSPA Gold Medalist and KSPA All-Kansas honor recipient.

12

OPINION Dec. 10, 2014

VOTE

staff

BLUESTREAK

ably think your parents didn’t know how to raise a child who can appreciate what is given to them, which is most cases is probably not true, but is coming off that way. I am not saying I do not belong in this category, because I do; I am handed almost anything I need and just about everything I want on a daily basis.

I am speaking on the behalf of our whole generation when I say that we need to stop taking everything others do and give us for granted, we need to revive being thankful for a simple deed. I am asking you to take a step back and look at how many things you have been given.

Without many simple deeds many of us wouldn’t be where we are today. With this small change think about how many others would be willing to go out of their way to do a little good in the world. Maybe if everyone were a little more humble and appreciative our nation wouldn’t have the issues people are debating over, for example whether or not racism still exists in America today. Do a little good, and good may come to you.

NO...

YES...

6

“Do you believe pressure is put on students to preform well on standardized tests?”

Staffers believe pressure is not put on students.

18 Staffers believe pressure is put on students.

>> megPLANK

More Than Just A Number

Editor Discusses Stress of Standardized Tests Numbers fly around the halls of Andover High School: 3.2, 26, 900, 21 and 4.0 are just a few examples of the types of numbers we are immune to. The numbers we hear not only represent test scores, GPAs and class ranks, but they seem like they represent us. Numbers have taken over our lives as high school students, especially as we approach graduation and are forced to decide on a college, a major, and the rest of our lives.

So, I’m here to tell you that those numbers do in fact matter, but they do not define who we are. We are so much more than just a number.

Throughout my years at Andover, my academic career revolved around achieving those numbers. FST, chemistry and AP language and composition were all supposed to prepare me for the most important four hours of my life on that dreaded Saturday. Well, that dreaded Saturday has turned into several dreaded Saturdays.

I do my absolute best in school, and I think my GPA can reflect that statement. However, when I walk into the classroom at 8 a.m. with my number two pencil, I panic. I guess my one question is why should our entire high school academic career be based on that one number? That one number that is a result of sitting in a desk for four hours, half asleep after the football game the night before.

Our educational system is now relying more than ever on standardized tests that compare students to one another as the dominant assessment instrument. The score affects where we can and can’t apply for college, what scholarships we can and can’t be awarded, and determines where we rank with others in our class.

I want to say the ACT and SAT mean nothing, but I know most teachers and administrators at Andover would disagree, especially Mr. Baier and Mrs. Grier. I believe that the way students perform in the classroom everyday for 180 days can tell you so much more than how we perform for four hours on test day. The ACT and SAT can derail even gifted students because of the immense amounts of pressure that results from other students, teachers and even ourselves. Our behavior and performance in the classroom should determine whether we are or are not “college ready.”

Whether it is simple butterflies or a severe case of “test anxiety,” many students feel overwhelming pressure to succeed in an atmosphere of high-stakes testing.

But let me tell you, when you are being interviewed in 4, 5, 6, 7 years down the road, the number won’t matter, because we are so much more.

Opinion

13

DEC. 10. 2014

Not Just A Number

High school students stress because of the overwhelming pressure of test scores

26 3.2 21 36 2.1 17 900 1.3 1200 4.0 14 2.0 1000 25 700 3.75 30 3.1 800 27 25 3.45 26 800 2.0 1.2 20 36 750 29

Throughout high school all students hear is the constant pressure to keep their grades up. With all of the different tools used to help colleges decide whether or not to accept students, kids tend to feel the pressure after a while.

While testing is a burden for some students, it is fairly easy for others.

“I basically show up to class and listen. I don’t study,” senior Jack Hall said.

Hall is one of seven National Merit Scholars in the district. Though he is very smart, he does not have to do much to do well in school.

Class rank is another way students are compared to one another. According to professionals.collegeboard.com, class ranking is a mathematical summary of a student’s academic record compared to those of other students in the class.

“I think my class rank reflects how hard I have worked. I would say it is a pretty fair ranking system,” Hall said.

College is a big reason why students stress out so much about testing and grades. Most colleges look at student’s ACT scores more than anything else.

Senior Alexa Wasinger agrees that it is a burden when her other accomplishments do not count as much as one test.

“I think it’s ridiculous that my ACT counts more than my GPA,” Wasinger said.

Though kids get stressed out from all the college talk, it gives them a goal and a reason to work hard.

“I wouldn’t try or care. I would not have the drive to do well if I did not have all this pressure on me for college,” Hall said.

-ashliELLERMAN

14

In-Depth DEC 10 2014

By the Numbers...

24,268 ...Kansas students took the ACT in 2013.

The average ACT score for Kansas in 2013 was...

30%

20.9 21.8 22.1 The average ACT score for males in Kansas in 2013 was...

...of students in Kansas meet the benchmarks in all four subjects.

21

The average ACT score for females in Kansas in 2013 was...

21.8

National Average Benchmark score for for Reading Kansas

15

18

National Benchmark for English

The average ACT score nationwide in 2013 was...

21.7

24

National Benchmark for Science

36

22

National Benchmark for Math

In-Depth DEC. 10, 2014

15

Balancing Books and Babies Junior Expected to Have Baby in Coming Months With an expected due date of Feb. 12, junior Faith Oliver’s life will be altered with the arrival of a newborn.

Oliver moved to Andover this year from New Jersey in order to move in with her mom. During the move, she discovered she was pregnant.

“When I found out, I started crying because I was really scared to tell my parents about it and I didn’t know what I was going to do,” Oliver said.

According to DoSomething.org, three in ten teen American girls become pregnant at least once before the age of 20. That is about 750,000 teen pregnancies per year.

Because of her young age, 16, Oliver had to “mature really fast in order to be prepared for the baby.”

Oliver is now 27 weeks along and has already decided on the girl’s name, Lailiona Rose’marie.

While 50 percent of teens have never considered how a pregnancy would affect their lives, Oliver has had to prepare for the arrival of her newborn. Next semester, her schedule will be

shortened, only having five classes so that she can go home to care for the baby.

“I just talked to the administration about it and they understood,” Oliver said.

Parenthood is the leading reason that teen girls drop out of school. More than 50 percent of teen mothers never graduate from high school. Oliver says she is doing well in school now and hopes to continue her education past high school.

“My mom is making me get a job so I will be working so a community college will most likely be my best option,” Oliver said.

Even though less than two percent of teen moms earn a college degree by the age of 30, Oliver hopes to counteract the statistic oppressing her future plans.

Oliver’s mom and two sisters provide a strong support system for her. Her younger sister is excited and plans on spoiling the newborn.

BABY DEVELOPMENT DURING PREGNANCY MONTH

1

>>Baby is 1/4 inch long >>Heart, digestive system, backbone and spinal cord begin to form >>Placenta starts development >>The single fertilized egg is now 10,000 times larger than its initial size

16

IN-DEPTH DEC. 10, 2014

MONTH

2

>>Baby is 1-1/8 inches long >>Heart is functioning. >>Eyes, nose, lips, tongue, ears and teeth start forming >>Baby starts to move

MONTH

3

>>Baby is 2-1/2 to 3 inches long >>Nails start to develop and earlobes are formed >>Arms, hands, fingers, legs, feet and toes are fully formed >>Eyes are almost fully developed

MONTH

4

>>Baby is 6-1/2 to 7 inches long >>Baby is developing reflexes >>Sweat glands are forming on palms and soles >>Fingers and toes are well defined >>Gender is identifiable

MONTH

5

>>Baby is 8 to 10 inches long >>Weight is about 1 pound >>Hair begins to grow on baby’s head >>Mother begins to feel fetal movement >>Eyebrows, eyelids and eyelashes appear

Ultrasound images show the baby from different angles. The first ultrasound will typically be given out between weeks 18 and 20. “Seeing it was a very eyeopening experience,” Oliver said.

Courtesy Photos

Junior Faith Oliver reveals her 27-weekold baby bump.

Oliver is expected to deliver on Feb. 12. “I’m so excited to finally see her in person,” Oliver said.

Photo by carly FLAKE

“When my mom first found out she cried, but she’s helped me prepare a lot since then. My older sister was mad at me when she first found out because she can’t have children, but has gotten over it to help me,” Oliver said.

In order to know how to take care of her baby, Oliver has the experience of taking care of her younger sister when she was a baby that she believes will help a lot.

Due to Oliver’s personal beliefs, no other options were available for her except to keep the baby.

“I could never give my baby away and I don’t believe in abortion,” Oliver said.

Oliver and the father of the child were dating for two years before she became pregnant. Because he is is still living back in New Jersey, they are no longer together, but Oliver stays in contact with him and plans on sharing custody, traveling back and forth to each state.

MONTH

6

>>Baby is 11 to 14 inches long >>eyes open for short periods of time >>Baby is able to hiccup

MONTH

7

>>Baby is 14 to 16 inches long >>Weight is about 2-1/2 to 3-1/2 pounds >>Taste buds have developed >>Organs are maturing >>If born at this time, the baby will be considered premature and require special care

“If things go well and we are still in communication, I may move back to New Jersey in the next year or so,” Oliver said.

Stereotypes follow teen moms and Oliver has had to face them head-on.

“I know a lot of people give me looks, but I just try to not be bothered by it and ignore it,” Oliver said.

According DoSomething.org, a sexually active teen who does not use contraceptives has a 90 percent chance of becoming pregnant within a year.

“If you’re going to be sexually active, keep it safe,” Oliver said.

With all of the planning and apprehension Oliver has gone through, she has time to relax before the baby’s arrival.

“Now all that is left to do is wait. I am a little nervous, but being able to finally hold her will be worth it,” Oliver said.

- monicaGOLDBERG

MONTH

8

>>Baby is 16-1/2 to 18 inches long >>Weight is about 4 to 6 pounds >>Most brain growth occurs at this time >>Movements or “kicks” are strong enough to be visible from the outside

MONTH

9

>>Baby is 19 to 20 inches long >>Baby is now fully developed >>Skin is pink and smooth. >>The baby settles down lower in the abdomen to prepare for birth

Information from: http://www.babies.sutterhealth.org/babygrowth/fetaldev/

IN-DEPTH DEC. 10, 2014

17

Different Parenting Styles At AHS Over-Protective Parents At Andover High For an average high school student, rules are a part of everyday life. Whether at school or home, teenagers are expected to follow guidelines. However, different parenting styles may impact how strict certain home lives are.

Some parents set specific requirements for children involving one activity; for others, rules affect everything.

Typically as high school students move from underclassmen to upperclassmen, their parents become more lenient. Often, once a teen begins driving, they are permitted more freedom.

However, sometimes parents keep the same rules throughout their child’s high school experience.

Junior Laura Restum has a curfew of around 9 p.m., except for special occasions.

“If there is an event going on that my parents approve of, they may change my curfew to ten or ten- thirty,” Restum said.

Restum’s parents monitor both her grades and behavior, and have high expectations for her achievement.

There are both positives and negatives to living with disciplinary parents. For example, children may excel more when more parental pressure is put on, but have difficult consequences for unruly behavior.

“If I do not follow rules I could lose my car and my phone,” sophomore Connor Inman said.

Inman relates to more of a strict parenting style and understands the reasoning behind it, but feels it is inconvenient.

“I see advantages in how my parents are, but disagree most of the time,” Inman said.

One Andover parent shared reasons why she believes parental involvement is imperative.

“It is important to try to teach children how to be independent, but it depends on the maturity of each child. Being cautious allows us to feel confident that our children are exercising good judgment and are ready for life,” she said.

This parent believes that communication is an essential factor in parent-child relationships.

According to a recent study conducted on American children, Children are more likely to grow into well-adjusted adults if their parents are firm disciplinarians.

Multiple studies have also documented that children who have authoritative parents are more competent than their peers during developmental periods and adolescence. Authoritative parents are classified as being both disciplinarians and receptive caregivers.

Children raised with a strict parenting style are more likely to be angry and rebellious as teenagers and young adults.

Both Restum and Inman concur that more rules cause children to rebel rather than want to follow their parents.

“Families have to find what works for them. Each family dynamic is different. Sometimes it’s hard because of busy schedules, but families need to work through in a way that is courteous and respectful towards each other,” the aforementioned parent said.

-brittianyCLARK

Lenient Parents At Andover High

Countless varieties of parenting occur in households all over the world. There are strict parents and lenient parents, parents who care “too much” and parents who probably do not care enough. There are involved parents, and parents who are more removed from their children’s lives. And of course, there are parents who stand somewhere in the middle of all this.

Students seem to agree that lenient parenting tends to allow kids the opportunity to be themselves and find their own way in life.

“I feel like if parents are more strict kids tend to begin hating them,” sophomore Liz Kim said.

Parents obviously are only trying to do what they see fit to make good people out of their children. Whether or not their approach works is not always foreseen.

“I don’t have a curfew. My dad just knows I’ll come home when my phone dies,” Kim said.

Curfews and expectations in school are just a couple of things that many parents’ views differ on. Many believe there is a connection between having a set time kids need to be home and their motivation to do well in school, but this may not

18

IN-DEPTH Dec. 10, 2014

always be the case.

“On a scale of one to ten, I’d put my mom at a four. I still don’t have a curfew, but she does check my grades every day,” junior Zach Shaw said.

A fair amount of students attending Andover seem to have fairly lenient parents. However, it must be kept in mind that lenient parenting does not always mean bad parenting.

“My parents would rank at about a one. But they still keep up with my grades and I get yelled at if they get too bad,” sophomore Kaitlyn Seabrook said.

It is fairly reasonable that children who are weighted down with rules and, sometimes, outlandish expectations will tend to act out and perhaps even openly defy their guardian(s).

“I think when parents are really strict, it makes kids want to rebel more than meet their parents’ expectations,” Shaw said.

Parenting styles will always be a subject for discussion, and there will never be any one “right” way to raise children. Parents will simply do as they see fit to raise sufficient members of society.

-meganCURRY

Mama I’m Comin’ Home Poll Taken of 200 Students Shows Curfews Around Andover 12 A.M. 11 P.M.

1 A.M.

2 A.M.

10P.M.

3 A.M.

9 A.M.

8 A.M.

4 A.M.

7 A.M.

5 A.M. 6 A.M.

1% of students have to be home at or before 10 PM 10% of students have to be home at or before 11 PM 33% of students have to be home at or before 11 PM 15% of students have to be home at or befoere 1 AM 45% of students do not have to be home before 2 AM

19

IN-DEPTH Dec. 10, 2014

Wichita State Ready for the Basketball War Ahead Fred Van Vleet Darius Carter

A look at Shockers’ 2014-15 season Head Coach Gregg Marshall knew his Shockers were going to be a successful team in 2014, but even he did not predict that Wichita State would win 35 straight games before falling to Kentucky in the third round of the NCAA tournament.

“I thought (winning 35 straight) was very unlikely last year,” Marshall said.

Starting this season with a record of 4-1, the anticipation for another historic season is the buzz around the city of Wichita. But Marshall and his number nine ranked Shockers are looking for more than just repeating as Missouri Valley Champs. “[Repeating] is not something we talk about,” Marshall said. “If we lose, we have to find a way to pick ourselves back up and get ready for the next game.”

The Shockers have a more bruising non-conference schedule in the 2014-2015 season, including home games versus Saint Louis, Seton Hall, Alabama. They have potential matchups with returning NCAA tournament teams Nebraska and Colorado in the Diamond Head Classic in Hawaii.

“It’s the most difficult non-conference schedule I have been a part of as a Division 1 coach,” Marshall said. “With playing the schedule that we play and if we do well enough, it will not only get us in the NCAA tournament but prepare us for success in the NCAA tournament.”

The Shockers lost leading scorer with 16.4 points a game and rebounder with six rebounds a game from 2014, NBA second round pick Cleanthony Early. Along with losing a strong inside prescence in Chadrack Lufile, Wichita State returns three starters from the 2014 Missouri Valley Conference regular season and tournament champion team.

Despite loing four seniors from the 35-1 team due to graduation, the Shockers are confident with returning three starters from 2014 and a strong core group, this team believes they can continue to have success as a national prospect.

Missouri Valley Conference Player of the Year, Fred Van Vleet, returns at point guard for the Shockers and will look to lead Wichita State farther in the NCAA tournament.

“I’m not trying to live up to the hype, just trying to win each game in front of us,” Van Vleet said. “[The team] will be more dependent on me this season.”

20

Coach Greg Marshall Sports dec. 10, 2014

Ron Baker

Photos By Grant Cohen

story continued...

Tekele Cotton

Evan Wessel

First team All-Valley member, Ron Baker, returns for his junior year after being Wichita State’s second leading scorer with 13 points a game in 2014. In four games of play, Baker leads the Shockers in scoring with 18.5 points a game.

Baker said that in order for his team to be successful, he and Van Vleet have to have great chemistry.

“A lot of people are going to be looking at our guards this year. We have to handle the spotlight and be ready to play,” Baker said.

Along with the All-American guard combo between Baker and Van Vleet, Wichita State returns the 2014 MVC Defensive Player of the Year, Tekele Cotton, and MVC All-Newcomer team member, Darius Carter. Carter and Cotton are the team’s only seniors.

Both have been playing aggressive on both ends of the floor in their first four games. Cotton is averaging 11 points a game and leading the team with five rebounds a game.

Carter is averaging 12 points a game as a first year starter.

While the Shockers have a majority of their core from last year, they are considered a young team.

Wichita State adds eight newcomers to the roster and Marshall looks for all of them to step up immediately.

“We have more youth right now. As they continue to get better it will become a positive thing for our team,” Marshall said.

Freshman Shaq Morris and Rashard Kelly bring much needed depth in their frontcourt and add tremendous skill to the Shocker’s 24th in the nation rebounding margin. Rian Holland and Corey Henderson Jr will provide Wichita State with quality minutes off the bench, each averaging 12 minutes a game at the start of this season.

The challenge may be greater for Wichita State basketball, but the hard work that they will put in to continue the success will continue to be a factor for how the Shockers finish this season.

“Our task is now to continue to play at a very high level. If we do that, the wins and losses will take care of themselves,” Marshall said.

-grantCOHEN

WSU Home Games November 8- Northwood (Fla.) November 14- New Mexico State November 23- Newman November 29- Tulsa December 6- Saint Louis December 9- Seton Hall December 16- Alabama January 4- Illinois State

January 7- Bradley January 14- Southern Illinois January 25- Drake January 28- Loyola February 7- Missouri State February 11- Indiana State February 22- Evansville February 28- Northern Iowa

Sports Dec. 10, 2014

21

Playing The Right Way

Student Athletes Share Need For Sportsmanship

versus a person who is rude.

It is easy for some athletes to make that terrific play.

“Sportsmanship is demonstrated by the way you treat However, when it comes to showing sportsmanship-like conyour team when you are down and the way you treat the other duct... Not so easy team when you are up,” Flake said.

Andover High stresses on the matter of showing

Flake said that how you handle both a win and loss is sportsmanship and representing the school and themselves important and she tries to demonstrate that in every athletic with a positive approach. activity she does.

AHS administrators believe that it is necessary to help

“Both traits show your character and what kind of an integrate simple acts of kindness so they can become better athlete you are,” Flake said. people for the future.

For some student-athletes, sports Student-athletes welcome the manship is not just on the field or the challenge in their sport and especially court. They apply it to their life, even when representing the Andover Trojans. they are not competing.

“Sportsmanship is the most “It isn’t something you can turn on important quality of an athlete. I demonand off. It is something that comes from strate it after every race I go to by shakthe heart of an athlete,” Senior wingback ing hands of almost every single runner Kenton Criser said. that I can find and say good race,” Junior Criser put his teammates first and cross country and track runner Jake himself second, regardless of what the Jackson said. scoreboard said. He also said that when he

Being able to possess the -kentonCRISER is on the field, he is playing for his team sportsmanlike conduct but to also be not just himself. competitive is a challenge for many

“I play for my school and my teammates. I do my best student-athletes, especially when on the losing side. to help the opposing team up after I have competed at my high For many athletes, it is easier to show good sportsest level,” Criser said. manship when they are victorious as opposed to when they are

Coaches stress that their athletes understand that it on the losing end. is not just about the sport, it is about carrying the life skills

“Sportsmanship is demonstrated to my team and I when they lose a close matchup we thought we could win,” said learned in the sport and applying them to the real world.

A sports team stays together as a family, whether it is senior volleyball player Riley Flake. an individual or team based sport.

Especially after a tough loss, most athletes, would

Regardless of success or failure, they still have each agree that having a kind opponent makes the loss the slightest other’s backs and support the opponent they compete with day bit better. in and day out.

Senior varsity golfer Hayley Meisch agreed and said -grantCOHEN it is much better to lose to someone who shows you kindness

“

“It isn’t something you can turn on and off. It is something that comes from the heart of an athlete,”

22

SPORTS DEC. 10 2014

Photo by paigeSCHLITTER

OU

Breakin’ Records, Takin’ Names

Staffer Reflects on Covering Historic Sports Moment Saturday November 22, 2014, was a freezing, pouring rain day when the University of Oklahoma took the field against the University of Kansas. The 84,908 Gaylord Family-Oklahoma Memorial Stadium was, like the Sooner’s season, dead.

After a one and a half hour delay, Sooner Vision Sports (whom I was shadowing that day), were debating on whether or not they should even attend the game. I quickly stepped in and said, “Let’s just go anyways, maybe something big would happen.”

That statement could not be any more true.

As the Sooners led 24-0 at halftime, something greater than the game was gaining attention. It was the talk of freshman running back, Samaje Perine, rushed for 222 first half yards.

There was excitement in the cold, foggy air that Perine could break the single game rushing record in FBS college football.

“We were thinking about resting him [in the second half]. But then we thought it was too close [to the record] and there was so much time left in the game,” Head Coach Bob Stoops said. >OU freshman running back, Semaje Perine, runs the field to break the single game FBS rushing record.

Photo by grantCOHEN

Once the second half got under way, Perine continued to carry the Sooners on his back.

He scored OU’s only two touchdowns in the third quarter, one off of a 66-yard run and the other off a 27 yarder.

With 4 minutes left to play in the third quarter, Perine was only 35 yards away from breaking the FBS single game rushing record in college football. And the one time I was covering a college event; I knew that capturing this story could end up being historic.

I rushed out of my seat from the press box, sprinted down the stair well, and arrived down on the field with my camera to capture what I would hope to be the record breaking run.

As I took shots, I thought of how close I was to the players that I was arms length of touching their sweat.

But I quickly realized I was on OU’s defensive side and not offense where I was supposed to be.

I stormed through the puddles of the field, feeling the water on the inside of my expensive dress shoes.

When I finally got to the other side, I was completely soaked. My clothes were dripping, my shoes were flooded, and there were tiny sprinkles on my camera.

None of that mattered. What did matter was capturing Semaje Perine’s record breaking run.

Every time Perine carried the ball, the crowd was hoping he would break a few tackles and get those final 35 yards.

On his 34th carry of the game, number 32 took off with lightning speed.

He dashed past through the Jayhawk’s secondary and dazzled his way for a 42 yard run that would give him 427 yards for the game, the new single game rushing record in FBS college football.

> Perine talks to the pess after the Sooner’s victory 44-7 Kansas.

Photo by grantCOHEN

“Words can’t tell how great of a job Semaje did today. He is a real special talent,” Sooner’s Quarterback Cody Thomas said.

As I walked backed to the press box, completely washed out by the rain, none of that mattered.

I had captured a historic moment in sports that people may never witness for many years to come.

Perine said that all that mattered to him at the end of the day was that his team was playing hard, regardless of an individual record.

“How many yards away I was [from the record] didn’t matter to me,” Perine said. “I just wanted to go out there and play the next play.”

Everyone at the OU-KU football game witnessed history and a record that may not be broken in the coming years.

What sports fans will witness is a special player who shows promise to this OU football team’s future.

“Hopefully he can break [the record] himself. He is only going to keep getting better,” Stoops said.

-grantCOHEN

23

SPORTS DEC. 10 2014

MODERN MUSIC

“As a girl, I don’t understand how women can listen to a lot of the music that is out nowadays. It is so degrading. A lot of the stuff they talk about cannot be legal.”

Hanna Watson, Junior “Making women into objects in order to make sales is a sly and unethical marketing method geared towards men. It also pushes young women to believe that they are inferior to the women portrayed in various forms of media. Therefore, they are left working towards a goal they cannot achieve.”

Soham Dasgupta, Freshman “Even though I listen to rap music, I do not really pay attention to the lyrics. I just like the beat.”

Riley Messina, Senior “It is probably offensive to some people, but I listen to it because it is upbeat and catchy. I think you have to be lyrically inclined and poetic to be successful in the rap industry.”

Trent Peck, Senior “It is all about sex and drugs, and all the guys that are rapping have only bad things to say about girls.”

Lauren Newman, Freshman “The people that see it as offensive are probably the people that do not listen to in very often, so when they do listen to it they only pick out the parts that are bad.”

Colin Matthew, Junior “I do not really care if it is in a song, as long as a guy does not come up and say something like that to my face.”

Sarah Miller, Sophomore

24

Pop Culture Dec. 10, 2014

*Disclaimer* The lyrics below may be offensive or vulgar to some audiences. By publishing these, we seek only to illustrate any possible injustices. Many of the lyrics originally brought to the drawing board had to be cut because of extreme obscenities, as well as ethical reasons.

“Tell me what in the f*** are you thinking?

Little gay looking boy So gay I can barely say it with a ‘straight’ face looking boy” Rap God, Eminem “B****** know I’m that n**** Talkin four-door Bugatti I’m the life of the party let’s get these hoes on the molly You know I came to stunt” French Montana, Pop That “Trash the hotel Let’s get drunk on the mini bar Make the phone call Feels so good getting what I want Yeah, keep on turning it up Chandeliers swinging, we don’t give a f*** Film star, yeah I’m deluxe Classic, expensive, you don’t get to touch” Iggy Azalea ft. Charli XCX, Fancy “Put molly all in her champagne She ain’t even know it I took her home and I enjoyed that She ain’t even know it” Rick Ross, U.O.E.N.O “I just talked to Jesus.

He said “What up, Yeezus?’

I said, ‘S***, I’m chillin’, Tryna stack these millions.’ ” Kanye West, On Sight

“Cause you’re a good girl and you know it You act so different around me Cause you’re a good girl and you it I know exactly who you could be” Hold On We’re Going Home, Drake “No Masters or Kings when the ritual begins There is no sweeter innocence than out gentle sin In the madness and soil of that sad earthly scene Only then I am Human Only then I am Clean” Take me to church, Hozier “I know a girl who cries when she practices violin Because each note sounds so pure it just cuts into her And then the melody comes pouring out her eyes Now to me everything else it just sounds like a lie” Bright Eyes, Going for the Gold “And she thinks Most people don’t talk enough about how lucky they are Most people don’t know what it takes for me To get through the day Most people don’t talk enough about the love in their heart’s But she doesn’t know most people feel that same way” Dawes, Most People “Oh, that’s life That’s dripping down the walls Of a dream that cannot breathe In this harsh reality Mass confusion spoon fed to the blind Serves now to define our cold society” Paolo Nutini, Iron Sky

25

Pop Culture Dec. 10, 2014

Staffer Reflects on Impact of Modern Music I have a problem. That problem is with what I hear when I turn on the radio. I am not talking about all modern musicians, because many of them are especially gifted. I am not even talking about the ones that write music about sex, drugs, or use profanity. I am talking about the ones that have something truly heinous to say. This occurs most often in rap or hip-hop, as well as pop. Coincidentally, this happens to be what young people listen to the most, or, as it is dubbed, “mainstream music”. I listen to this music and I hear it degrade my gender. I listen to this music and I hear it worship the almighty dollar. I listen to this music and I hear it use slurs for those of specific sexualities and races. I listen to this music and I hear it glorify and even promote violence. All I can think when I turn on the radio is, “Why do they hate us so much?”

One of the first arguments I am faced with when talking about this issue is that modern musicians often go for “shock value”, meaning that their aim is to surprise and offend you.

This is a concept I admit I do not, and certainly never will, understand. Why would you want to make people feel as if they are less? Lyrics are typically a reflection of an artist’s innermost thoughts, and the music you listen to is ultimately a reflection of yours. When that music is largely sexist, racist, homophobic, materialistic, or angry, it makes you ponder what is really going on in everyone’s head. Some uphold that kids do not really listen to the lyrics, and that everyone listens to something a little wild when they are young. Well, let us consider that you listen to it everyday between the ages of 13 and 20. It has to have some sort of effect on your subconscious. They do not call those your formative years for nothing.

I have to point out that I am not knocking creativity or freedom of speech; those two concepts have allowed me to write this editorial. I am also not claiming that all rappers or pop artists are talentless and hateful creatures. I would not try to put them into a box, like I myself, being a woman, have been put into. On the contrary, I see a lot of beauty and innovation in the things they are doing. I simply state that music is one of the biggest influences on society. Throughout our history, it has broken racial barriers and even ended wars. Musicians are cloaked in immense power. These people have an obligation to us. In response to this, many exclaim, “I never asked to be a role model”. I refuse to accept this. Because yes, you did. When you gained footing in the music industry, you knew you would be heard; so, please start taking responsibility for the things you put out there.

Yes, I realize that oftentimes music is just about having fun and letting loose, and not to be taken so seriously. I like to relax, too. Sometimes it is nice to just enjoy something and not think too much about it, but only if it is not demeaning to others.

Because if you need

to continue stepping on the already beaten-down in order to make a song “fun”, then you lack lyrical capacity in the first place, and are undeserving of our money and adoration.

Some of you may be wondering why I even bothered to write this. One article is not going to make all my peers change their daily lives; that is true. But you must understand why this is important enough for me to try. One of the hardest parts of life is that no matter how long you know a person, or how close you are to them, you will never truly understand them. You can try and try and try, but you will never know what is actually going on in another person’s head, ever. You can never fathom their conscience. The only person we have the potential to comprehend is ourselves, and most of us lack the self-awareness to ever accomplish this. It really is you against the world. This is extremely isolating. Art is our only respite from this, the lone anecdote. When you are looking at a painting or reading a novel or listening to a song, you are suddenly able to catch a glimpse of what is happening within that artist, what they are feeling.

They are able to express themselves most fully through their chosen medium. It creates a portal into each other’s minds, into our hearts. You find yourself able to connect in a way not possible through conversation alone. Listening to music that you connect to is important because it humbles you. When you listen to a song about unrequited love, or sorrow, or confusion, it reminds you that you answer to your feelings, and that you have absolutely no control over them. When you listen to music that is utterly apathetic, you begin to feel as if you are a master to feeling, because it perpetuates that you do not have any. Maybe we are not meant to feel that powerful.

That is why music today is so dangerous. That is why I take this so seriously. It teaches you to value the wrong things. It categorizes us. It separates us. It divides us. This is not a feminist issue, or an LGBTQ issue, or a have vs. have-nots issue; it is a human one. How many times do we have to prove to ourselves that the only way we work is together? I wish to amend my previous statement of “I have a problem” to “We have a problem.”

If you sow the seeds of music that presents life as one big emotionless party, where you bath in milk, drip in gold, drive a Bugatti, and subjugate your fellow man, you threaten the very existence of that portal, knowingly or unknowingly, and I promise to never give you a dime. You would only use it to create that life for yourself anyways. I invite my fellow students to stand with me. This music is just one of the innumerable enemies to human progress. Those that propagate hate and intolerance and dominance do not merit your awards, your money, or your time.

Do not let yourself be numbed. You are smarter than that, and you deserve better. As always, thanks for reading.

“It teaches you to value the wrong things. It categorizes us. It seperates us. It divides us.”

26

pop culture Dec. 10 2014

-haleyROWE

Student Shares Perspective on Musical Progression

Music. Music is a way to express thoughts and feelings. Music is what brings the world together. Every culture around the world has music. The music of our culture is loved all over the world. Maybe this is because our modern music has a diverse spectrum of messages being delivered. And while our music is great and fun to listen to, there is an underlying theme in today’s pop music. Our music reflects who are as a generation and how we live our lives, but sadly that way has become to live fast and die young.

Modern music has embraced the world of taboo. Drug culture, objectification of women, crime, ignorance, and hate can be found in a significant amount of today’s hits. These artists glorify the things that kill real people and send people to jail i.e. drunk driving. Modern music also over-sexualizes women. In a lot of modern music girls are referred to by derogatory terms and expressed as objects of pleasure for men. It puts pressure on young women to be desirable and sexy; to be wanted. The problem with this is that young people are very impressionable and modern music tells them to act in a degrading manner. Music like this, while it appeases the ears it can corrode the mind and become counterproductive to the advancement of our society.

However, there still are positive messages to be found in modern music.

Many artists today have started to produce more introverted songs; about thoughts, feelings, fears and regrets. They speak their minds and bring light to issues in the modern world. Artist like Kendrick Lamar, Chance the Rapper, Twenty One Pilots, Rise Against, and many more use their songs to help cleanse the society of ignorance. They sing and rap about social injustices like racism, sexism, the oppression of the weak, the corruption of the government, and all other problems with society. Their music becomes personal because people can relate to it. These artists write songs to help people get through life and deal with things like depression and even those with suicidal thoughts.

Using poetry, they give their personal experiences and advice facing issues in life. This quality of modern music is quickly spreading and will, in my mind, help our generation set the stage to rid the world of hate.

Modern music reflects our generation and also influences it, as well as generations to follow. What you listen to is what you accept and it’s what you promote. Will our generation be known for money, sex, drugs, and crime, or as the ones that changed the world? Music can send a powerful message and can make a difference in your life. There is no right or wrong to what kind of music a person chooses. Everybody dances to their own boomboom. Dance to your boom-boom.

-alexTAUKE

“One good thing about music: when it hits, you feel no pain.”

Trenchtown Rock, Bob Marley “Music sends me into a state of euphoria.” Jared Lenz, Senior “There are so many varieties, you get to pick one you relate to most.”

Lauren Marion, Sophomore “Music makes me feel some type of way.” Lewis Thomas, Senior “It’s fun to dance, without music you wouldn’t be able to.”Julia Miller, Sophomore “Music is good because it’s expression.” Ali Alfraih, Freshman “Sometimes, music says what you can’t.” Jaylyn Agnew, Senior “Music is relaxing.” Josie Beaver, Sophomore “It helps you clear your mind and it takes you away from things you don’t want to be at.”

Rahshei Pierson, Senior “It expresses your emotions without having to speak at all.” Riley Flake, Senior “I like music because it can show you what you’ve been trying to find all along.”

Anthony Jackson, Senior

27

POP CULTURE Dec. 10, 2014

‘If you ruled AHS...’

Students Discuss What They Would Do If They Rruled Andover High For the Day

Connor Hawkins

“I’d probably just keep it the same. I wouldn’t change anything. It’s all gucci.”

“I would have a giant game of hide and seek.”

Jaylyn Agnew “I would have a movie day with a huge projector and blankets and everyone wearing pajamas.”

Ellie Oberg

Connor Schillings

“I would make a zip-line through the school and make the floors into trampolines!”

Riley Messina

Abree Leach

“I would splatter-paint the walls and have a school-wide food fight!”

Lucy Anderson

28

Back Cover Dec. 10, 2014

“I would put stairs in the school and then replace them with slides so we could slide everywhere.”

“I probably wouldn’t make anybody go to class and I would just make it a free day for everyone to do whatever they want.”