U-TIMES U. City High School 7401 Balson Ave University City, MO 63130
U-Times 2017 Volume 28, Issue 2
NEWSMAGAZINE
IT’S SHOWTIME
BY ELIOT FULLER Staff Editor
Daniel Pomerantz, senior, solos in front of the audience during a performance of “Moon Dance” by Van Morrison. “It’s kind of sad that this is my last year,” Pomerantz explained. “I wasn’t really emotional then, but I’ll probably be emotional during my last solo.”
The jazz band poses for a group photo before the show starts. “We were all out in the hallway while the brass was practicing,” Zion Martin, freshman, said. PHOTOS BY ELIOT FULLER
After weeks of hard work and practice, jazz band and choir students finally had the opportunity to show off their skills. At 6:30 pm the jazz band and choir were highlighted during the holiday concert in the auditorium. Students played many holidaythemed songs, such as the Christmas classic ‘Linus and Lucy’ from “A Charlie Brown Christmas.” “I picked something appropriate for the season,” jazz band teacher Stanley Coleman said. The jazz band played three songs, featuring multiple student solos and tons of hand-clapping and feet-tapping from the crowd. They may be small, but the jazz band is still a skilled group of students. Sophomore Henry Giles is one of the members of the jazz band. He plays piano and keyboard for the group. “This year, we had lots of incoming talent,” Giles said. “Even though we have a small group, we still perform well.” This year, the jazz band consists of just nine students, one of which is Daniel Pomerantz, senior, who has been with the band since middle school. Pomerantz, who plays saxophone, had multiple solos throughout the concert.
“I’ve been soloing in the jazz band for a while now,” Pomerantz said. “It’s just gotten to the point where I don’t get nervous anymore.” Once the jazz band finished playing, the choir took center stage. With 38 students total, the choir was far from a small group. For some students, like Kevin Worthy, sophomore, the concert was full of opportunities. “I liked the concert, because it gave me the chance to express my voice,” Worthy said. “It also gave me the chance to do the things I’m not used to doing.” The choir played seven songs, including holiday melodies like “Glow” by Eric Whitaker, and “Bright Morning Stars” arranged by Jay Althouse. Caroline Ibnabdeljalil, the choir teacher, had high praise for her students after the concert. “I think this winter concert was by far my most memorable,” she said. “I believe it was successful.” After taking a final bow to tumultuous applause, the choir students filed off the stage, capping off a musicfilled evening. “The kids performed fabulously and flawlessly,” Ibnabdeljalil said. “It was so fun directing them.”
While performing “The Awakening,” choir students harmonize together. “It was very emotional because it was about no longer having music in the world,” Cory Barber, sophomore, said.
IN THIS ISSUE
Opinion/News • Mental Health • Me Too
2-5
• Veteran’s Day
6-7 White Flight • The changing face of U. City
Features • Meditation • College decisions
8-9 • Charity basketball
10-11 Sports • Physical/
• Wrestling
mental health • Basketball coach
December 2017
2
opinion
STAFF EDITORIAL
You too? Abuse epidemic needs fix Recently, a discouraging trend has surfaced, one that has exposed something both disheartening and raw, hidden in plain sight among us. Numerous people: celebrities, mainly women, some men and a concerning amount of adolescents, have bravely taken a stand with the very simple phrase, “Me too.” This is a movement that reveals a problem that has always been present from the very beginning of society as we know it. Although this phrase was originally coined by Tarana Burke, sexual assault survivor and activist on MySpace a decade ago, as a grassroots movement that focused mainly on women of color within in our own communities, it was brought to attention this year by actress Alyssa Milano and followed by many other high-profile celebrities such as Reese Witherspoon and Rose McGowan. Burke hopes to prevent the movement from straying too far from its original purpose, although she has expressed pride towards the countless people who have bravely come forward to confess. Burke has noticed that many black female celebrities rarely receive the support and understanding that their white counterparts do. “I have a theory, my theory is that after electing confessed molester (Donald Trump), we decided to speak up, women of our generation
usually did not,” Jessica Saigh, intern counselor, said. “I cannot count the numerous times that I’ve been groped or touched, and all I did was dismiss it. They put our whole lives on trial while [generally] men are not. [Women] are asked what they are wearing, if they were drunk, or why didn’t they fight back? Women have had enough. I think it’s a good thing, though, and I think it’ll have a positive impact. I think men aren’t even aware because they react differently.” Interestingly, the same standards that determine what is OK and what isn’t when it comes to femininity and masculinity, can also be very destructive towards the men who have and will experience something so traumatic. Even in the modern era in the U.S., men are ridiculed for doing anything that isn’t remotely accepted as idealistically “male,” and the same goes with women. What someone wears, how they behave, their mannerisms and their status in society (based on wealth, race, and many other factors), all play a part in how everyone around them perceives them. Among the accused are Louis C.K. and Harvey Weinstein with multiple counts of sexual misconduct, both of whom have received scrutiny. Interestingly, sexual misconduct is commonplace in our own communities
and the perpetrators are rarely ever get the same attention. “Creepy uncles” and other family members are easily dismissed, because maybe this person is usually so nice and caring, or they wish to avoid causing this because it happens and it’s normal, even if it shouldn’t be. While this continues, I don’t know how many times I have heard people mention how willing a family is to kick out a son or a daughter who come out with a different identity. It is the reason, according to the Williams Institute at UCLA, about 40% of the youth who are homeless identify as part of the LGBT+ community. Even though parents are willing to put their own children out of the house for their sexual identification, they choose to ignore the relatives that commit any form of abuse upon their children, siblings and parents. The first thing viewed on the Rape, Abuse and Incest National Network (RAINN) statistics page online is, “Every 98 seconds, an American is sexually assaulted. And every 8 minutes, that victim is a child. Meanwhile, only six out of 1,000 perpetrators will end up in prison.” This is something that should move a person. Speaking up about this is only the beginning, but it is still a step in the right direction. TIME magazine is literally honoring
women who have spoken up about their abuse. This year’s “Person of the Year” is actually a group of women, all of whom have broken the silence of their abuse. On the cover, Adama Iwu, Ashley Judd, Isabel Pascual, Susan Fowler, Taylor Swift, and an arm, purposely cut off, belonging to an anonymous woman from Texas, representing the numerous people who have not come forward to speak about such a traumatizing experience. A group In Nairobi, Kenya, have been taking measures to reduce their sexual assault epidemic since 2010. About one oin four women in Nairobi been sexually assaulted, usually by their own relatives and other loved ones. There are two separate programs: Your Moment of Truth for the boys, and No Means No for the girls. The girls program trains them on self defense with a focus on empowerment. The boys program banishes the assumptions that make people think that sexual assault is OK, such as the clothes people wear, and what to do when you witness sexual assault. This has made a huge impact, reports of rape have gone down 20% since this program began. Providing the youth with sexual assault awareness and training programs like this could make a difference.
Under pressure from all sides
Students caught in cycle of stress should seek help from school counselors By Kaya Blount Staff Writer
High school is a tumultuous time for teenagers. As characterized by classic movies like “The Breakfast Club” or “Fast Times at Ridgemont High,” these particular four years of an adolescent’s life may be generally joyful or awful due to hormones, drama and classes. However, most people can agree that high school is stressful. But the stress that many high schoolers face day in and day out may actually be changing how our brains look and act-- even its size is affected. Chronic stress changes brain chemistry, right down to our genes. It can also cause a host of other problems, like hypertension and Alzheimer’s in later years. Stress even impairs a person’s judgement and coping skills, leading to unhealthy coping
2017-2018 U-Times Staff Co-Editor: Lucy Wurst Co-Editor: Kathryn Fuller Sports Editor: Julian Albright Web Editor: Julian Albright Staff Writers/Photographers: Linsey Sparks Zhong-mei Webb Ashlynn Jenkins Kaya Blount Eliot Fuller Clayton Miller Adviser: Mrs. Mary Williams
mechanisms like drugs and alcohol. This cycle of stress can make it hard for students to focus and retain information in classes, and it may even result in a number of students developing diagnosable depression. According to TEDed’s video “How Stress Affects Your Brain,” the feeling of stress starts in the brain, in a place called the hypothalamus pituitary adrenal axis, or HPA axis for short. Basically, when a person faces stress, their HPA axis jumps into overdrive, releasing a chemical called cortisol. As cortisol levels in a person’s brain rises, everything in the brain is affected-- the hippocampus, the prefrontal cortex, even the brain’s size changes. When the hippocampus is weakened, so is a person’s ability to learn new information and their ability to manage stress. This also leads to the hippocampus not making as many brain cells. As the prefrontal cortex is weakened, it shrinks. This affects a person’s ability to regulate behavior, concentrate, make good decisions and interact socially with other humans. All of this means means chronic stress
Philosophy
The newspaper’s primary obligation is to inform its readers about events in the school and community and of the issues of national or international importance which directly or indirectly affect the school population. The newspaper, while serving as a training ground for future journalists as part of the school curriculum, recognizes all rights and responsibilities under the First Amendment. While establishing U-Times as a public forum, student editors will apply
inhibits a person’s capability to learn and remember things, as well as sending their judgement out the window and hindering any relationships they might have or wish to make. This makes school difficult for hormonal students who are already stressed, as it creates a vicious cycle. If a student begins to feel overwhelmed, they may begin to fall behind in their studies, causing them to stress further. Unbeknownst to most students here at U. City, there are ways to help those feeling overwhelmed. One such way is a 504 form, a document that allows a student (with a diagnosis) to have extensions, a permanent pass to any counselor and other accommodations. According to Deborah Kravitz, counselor, after a student’s parent requests a 504 plan by contacting their grade level counselor, a meeting is held to determine eligibility. If the student is found eligible, the school is legally required to put together the 504 plan to support the student. Once the form is put together and given to the student, it may be enough to reduce the stress.
professional standards and ethics for decision-making as they take on the responsibility for content and production of the newspaper. Inasmuch as the student staff encourages constructive criticism of any part of the newspaper, authority for content rests in the hands of the student members of the newspaper staff. Students will not publish material considered to be legally unprotected speech, or libel, obscenity, material disruption of the educational process, copyright infringement, or unwarranted invasion of privacy.
Policies
“504 plans are a part of the Americans with Disabilities Act and, in order to qualify for a 504 plan, a student must have a diagnosed condition that affects their ability to be successful at school,” according to Rachel Bromberg, school psychologist. “There are criteria that a student has to meet.” In addition to 504 plans, another way we as a school could help students in need may be having talking circles (led by professionals) on how to handle stress healthily. Until then, Bromberg, the school psychologist and Michelle Marshall, the on-site Lutheran Family Children Services counselor, would be great people to talk to if you’re feeling stressed. The guidance office is a good starting point for anyone feeling overwhelmed, as your grade-level counselors are also available to talk. All in all, high school is hard, and there can be serious consequences to one’s health if they don’t get help dealing with the inevitable stress of school life. If you are a student in need, just know that there are people here who care, as well as resources available to you that may help.
Opinions expressed on the editorial page do not reflect the viewpoints of the school administration. All editorials (unsigned) represent a majority opinion of the Editorial Board. Signed editorials, columns, editorial cartoons, and reviews reflect the views of the author and not necessarily those of the U-Times Editorial Board. The U-Times reserves the right to reject, edit, or shorten letters. Submit letters to Mrs. Mary Williams in Room L306, or to any U-Times staff
member, or to marywilliams@ ucityschools.org.
Contact Us
We are located in Room L 306 at University City High School, 7401 Balson Ave., University City, MO 63130. Our email address is marywilliams@ucityschools.org. Tweet us or follow us on Instagram @utimesonline.
3
features
December 2017
Vets honored at assembly By Ashlynn Jenkins Staff Writer
Veterans’ Day is a day when many people mourn losses and others take time to thank people who are currently serving this country. U. City honored veterans on Nov. 10 at the annual JROTC Veterans’ Day ceremony. The program showcased current cadets, past JROTC students and veteran staff in U. City. Even loved ones of students and staff were showcased in a slideshow. The music stylings of Dorthea Nevils, English teacher, set the tone with her emotional rendition of the national anthem. All traditions were done, well and professionally,” Col. Thomas Henson, JROTC instructor, said. “Even the students and teachers were also well-behaved.” Unlike previous years, the cadets were in charge of the entire program, specifically, Dominic Bryant, junior. “I planned the whole thing, and gave other people duties,” Bryant said. One addition to the assembly this
year was a drill which included the current dance styles of ‘Dabbing’ and ‘Hittin’ dem Folks’ which Col. Henson said showed discipline. “The team was in sync and had the same movements,” Col. Henson said. “They they looked like one cohesive unit.” However, along with all the new, the flag-folding ceremony was performed by Tyreese Jones, junior, and Bryant. Although it was cut slightly short this year, it was Jones’ favorite part. It is a serious procedure to fold the flag which both Jones and Bryant did again this year. “It was better this year because there was less laughing,” Jones said. The only thing the cadets and Col. Henson said they would change is having enough time to fully honor more of the past and present veterans and military family members. “I think that military procedure was used correctly, and I’m happy with how the assembly turned out,” Bryant said.
As they presented the colors, Tyreese Jones and Angela Smith, juniors, both made sure to keep up with military bearing, “[I’m just glad] every cadet saluted,” Jones said. “[I was] thinking of all the fallen soldiers and family in the Army, especially my brother who is currently serving,” Smith said.
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December 2017
features
Forest Park
4
Larger than Central Park in New York City, Forest Park offers 1293 acres of attractions located just a few miles from our backyard
As a family activity, Tyann Scales, senior, goes to the St. Louis Art Museum with her mom and cousin. “I went with my mom a while ago because she really likes art,” said Scales. “We took my cousin because he’s young and we wanted to get him out of the house. He really liked it and wants to go back.” PHOTOS BY KATHRYN FULLER AND LUCY WURST
The Missouri History Museum is a popular attraction for field trips and recently featured a Civil Rights exhibit. Whitney Huling, senior, went with her class to experience the exhibit. “I went to the History Museum to see the Civil Rights exhibit, Huling said. “There were staff members portraying important characters during the Civil Rights movement and they had the Ferguson display up.”
Offering a unique environment to observe animals in their natural habitats, the St. Louis Zoo also provides job opportunities for students. Jalen Williams, senior, has been working at the Zoo for 10 months and appreciates the entertaining scene. “You meet a lot of interesting people,” Williams said. “It’s just a very diverse and culturally vast place.”
For one of their first dates, David White, senior, took his girlfriend, Micah Leonard, senior, to the Jewel Box. “I was on a hike with my girlfriend and we stopped to go into the Jewel Box,” said White. “It’s one of the most beautiful places in Forest Park.”
The Muny has staged a vast majority of popular musicals over the past 100 years since its opening in 1917. Nicole Holahan, junior, enjoys watching the performances. “Awhile ago I went to go see ‘Aladdin’ and most recently, ‘The Little Mermaid,”’ Holahan said. “The Muny is close so that’s nice and it’s a fun outing if you have the time.”
5
news
December 2017
Talent show highlights students’ skills By Ashlynn Jenkins Staff Writer
During the weeks leading up to the talent show on Nov. 17, the performers started to shed their shyness, and a whole new side to people in our school began to emerge. Starting off the show, the cheerleading squad welcomed the crowd with a quick cheer and went directly into a dance routine the crowd went wild for. As the cheers faded out, the emcee of the night, Jordan McNeal, senior, brought out the coordinator of the evening, Dorthea Nevils, English teacher, for her to introduce the the next few acts. The show featured a variety of acts consisting of singing, spoken word, piano playing, dancing and more. “The best part of the night was that even if you think you did bad, everyone clapped for you like you did the best,” Aliyah Mitchell, sophomore, said. Most people prepped for weeks before the night but McNeal felt comfortable winging it. “I did it last year and it was easy to go out and do what I needed to do,” McNeal said. Mitchell got to perform on her birthday, determined to showcase her natural singing voice. After practice once a week, and drinking tons of water, she felt ready to step out on
For weeks before her actual performance, Aliyah Mitchell, sophomore, tried out a new singing style in the practice show, which consister of ther going slightly higher than her normal low range. “I was nervous because I didn’t know if I was going to go higher or lower yet,” “Mitchell said.
the stage. Even with mic troubles, she delivered her rendition of ‘The Weekend’ by SZA saying, “I switched it the day of to go higher [in her vocal range],” said Mitchell. Mitchell felt confident since “everyone was cheering the whole time” and she just wanted to give a great performance. Marquess Pearson is usually all in the moment but for this tribute dance he made sure to “showcase [his] versatility and talents.” Knowing that he wanted to test himself, he mashed up 4 songs and danced a different style to each beat; styles included krumping, popping and locking, hip-hop and animation. His only wish was that for the final song, he wanted to work on that one more and wished it looked as good as the practice, or maybe have better stamina. Although there was no first place or prizes, every performer felt like a winner when the crowd went wild after each act. “It felt like I had a lot of support” Mitchell said, “it got me out of my comfort zone and [being in the talent show] led me to figure out what I want to do after high school .” go to utimesonline.com for more photos and stories
After her previous partner could no longer perform in the talent show with her, Shu’Rya Butler, junior, created a whole new act. “I knew I just had to say how I felt even if it might offend someone.”
With the melodic dubstep playing in his ears, Marquess Pearson, junior, slowed down his dancing to follow the beat to one of the many songs he complied for the talent show. “I just wanted to express [myself] to a large amount of people,” Pearson said, “it’s always been a dream [of mine] to be able show [my] passion and they ride with me.” PHOTOS BY ASHLYNN JENKINS AND TYRONE WATSON
Weeks before her performance of “Who’s Loving You” by Michael Jackson, Jayla Fitch, sophomore, said that she was “nervous because I have stage fright, but I love to sing so it was worth it to perform and everyone loved it.”
With fellow teachers dancing to “Sweet Caroline,” Philip Parrish, English teacher, puts everything into performing to the compilation of songs the teachers chose. “We practiced for about one month and the students always seem to enjoy it,” Parrish said.
Music program plays at Barnes & Noble to raise money By Zhong-Mei Webb Staff Writer
Orchestra and choir students entertained customers to raise funds for their programs at Barnes & Noble at Ladue Crossing on Dec. 7. “For it to be our first-time fundraiser, they told us we did really well compared to other schools and they extended it for another five days,” Destiny Moore, senior violinist, said. PHOTO BY RHYAN HAYNES
This holiday season, the Barnes & Noble in Ladue hosted an all day fundraiser to support the music dept. which has recently gone through some budget cuts. This event will help pay for sheet music, field trips (including the competitions) and any additional resources. Students from the choir and orchestra put on a performance for the community from 3:30-8:30 pm, and raised just under $1,000. For those that came, food and drink was available in the cafe including family dinners, pastries and even festive black and gold sugar cookies. Both the choir and the orchestra weren’t given much time to study their selections beforehand, and despite that, they persisted. In fact, the fund raising event was extended an extra five days because it was so successful. For the most part, the students had
similar experiences. “It was pretty fun, kind of scary, when you’re in a smaller area so you could see everything, and you’re not in a stage where you can’t really see the audience,” says Phoebe Thoroughman, junior, “I think when Haley started singing ‘Amazing Grace’ people started coming from everywhere to listen.” Thoroughman participated with the choir and sang “Hark the Angels Sing” and “Angels We Have Heard on High”. Karl Nelson, sophomore, performed with the orchestra. “Actually, that was the first time reading the music that we played, so we sight read. I was nervous. I hadn’t been to Barnes & Noble in a while, so it was bringing me back, kind of reminding me of so much bigger of a community than we thought. We definitely served our purpose, that was the best first time.”
The changing face of University City Sch White flight impacted community after African-American families By Kathryn Fuller Co-Editor
If somebody were to flip through a University City High School yearbook from 56 years ago, they might be surprised by the demographics of the school population because it is drastically different from the racial makeup of the student population today. A yearbook from the 19601961 school year pictured zero African Americans students in the senior class out of a total of 527 students. Compare this to the 2016 senior class, which pictures 126 African American students out of 132 total students pictured. Some might wonder what happened in those 56 years to change the demographics of University City High School so drastically. The culprit: white flight. Dictionary.com defines white flight as “the movement of white people, especially middle class people, from inner-city neighborhoods undergoing racial integration to the suburbs.” White flight is a widespread issue throughout the country and University City High School has experienced it first-hand.
Jewish population Up until the 1970s, University City was a majority white, Jewish community. According to Ellen Bern, University City resident and parent of two alumni, “In St. Louis, many stores in the business districts, including the U. City, Maplewood, and Wellston Loop areas were Jewish.” Diane Davenport, University City resident since 1965, teacher in the district from 1965 to 1988 and mother of two U. City alums, said that University City was about 80% Jewish and that the Jewish people wanted to create their own
community. “When I came to the district in 1965, we were super sensitive to the Jewish holidays,” Davenport said. “In terms of Jewish businesses, there were the bagelrys, tailor shops, bookstore-Paul Schoomer owned Paul’s Books which was in the old Cicero’s building.”
Housing laws White flight started impacting University City and neighboring communities as more black families relocated here from the city of St. Louis. It was a difficult transition, not only in the schools, but also in the neighborhoods. According to georgetown.edu, the Civil Rights Act of 1968, also known as the Fair Housing Act, “makes it unlawful to refuse to sell, rent to, or negotiate with any person because of that person’s inclusion in a protected class. The goal is a unitary housing market in which a person’s background (as opposed to financial resources) does not arbitrarily restrict access.” Just because the law said that African Americans could live on your block, that does not mean it happened overnight. In fact, in 1968, St. Louis had its own landmark U.S. Supreme Court decision, Jones v. Alfred H. Mayer Co., where a black man, Joseph Lee Jones, accused Mayer Co. of not selling him a home in a particular North County subdivision because of his race. The Supreme Court ruled in Jones’ favor, based somewhat on the recently passed Fair Housing Act. It was not until after these cases were decided that black people began to move out of the city and despite issues such as discriminatory loan practices, were actually able to live in communities like University City.
Former University City Councilman Larry Lieberman was a part of the transition. In his 2011 obituary at stltoday.com, it said that Lieberman was appointed to the City Council in 1965 and served a total of 29 years. He “fought blockbusting and championed fair housing laws in University City, which became one of the first municipalities to adopt an open housing ordinance.” It could be inferred that part of Lieberman’s passion was due to the fact that he and his family were impacted by blockbusting in their own neighborhood because the realtors didn’t want to increase the price of the homes. Stl.today said Lieberman was turned down for a loan in 1962 to build an addition to their University City home because “the neighborhood was changing.” As African Americans moved in, realtors offered white residents low prices to move out. The agents then sold to black families at higher prices and high interest rates. Davenport believes that the housing situation in University City in the 1960s definitely made it more difficult for black families to integrate into University City. Davenport adds that instead of refusing to sell houses and rent apartments to people because of their skin color, realtors found a way around the law. One of the thing they did was to establish the occupancy number for an apartment at a low number so families larger than the established number would be forced to lie about how many people were going to be living in the apartment because they couldn’t afford to rent anything bigger. “There was an undercurrent of racial discomfort because of black people moving
here,” Davenport said. In fact, according to Da alumnus and CEO of Beyo Kreymeyer said there was ordinance prohibiting “fo during the late 1960s and this, African Americans, in way of knowing when hom One of University City’ problem was to create a H Commission to discuss rac according to Davenport, d According to stltoday.com founding member of the A Jewish Dialogue Task For the Urban League and the Relations Council, which m understanding and friend
Impact on schoo
With the increase of bl into the school district in 1970s many white people became uncomfortable wi shift. “In U. City, black famil to buy homes anywhere in and began buying and ren [University City],” Bern sa was very evident in the sch white families were not co change in demographics a moved away in a few years Rabbi Jeffrey Gale grad in 1971 and said his three at the height of the transit one incident where racial
Dial Yearbook 1960-61
Dial Yearbo Illustration by Ashlynn Jenkins
What do people typically say about our schoo
Naiah Garrett, sophomore “When I say I go to U. City, people feel like our school is enthusiastic but they don’t like our school because of the sports.”
Leah Zukosky, junior “Somebody once said to me, ‘is it true that they’re fights every single day at the high school?’”
Alex Cunningham, senior “People think our school is ghetto because of the things the news portrays.”
hool District moved to U. City from St. Louis city
avenport, U. City ond Housing Chris s an University City or sale” signs in yards early 1970s. By doing n particular, had no mes were for sale. ’s solutions to this Human Relations ce relations, which didn’t solve anything. m, Lieberman was a African-American/ rce, sponsored by e Jewish Community met regularly to build dships.
ol district
lack families moving the late 1960s and early who attended U. City ith the demographic
lies were finally able n the community, nting homes here aid. “This social change hool population. Many omfortable with the and many white families s.” duated from U. City years at U. City were tion. He described tension became so
thick over the viewing of a KKK movie for a humanities class that African American students set fire to the Little Theatre. “The tension in that room [after the showing of the film] was something you could cut with a knife,” said Gale. Slowly, more and more white families were taking their children out of the high school and sending them to schools outside of the University City School District. “Overall, the district’s enrollment has declined over the last 10 or more years,” Dr. Sharonica Hardin-Bartley, superintendent, said. “This decline has impacted all student populations, not just white families. My husband is a 1994 University City High School graduate. Even then the student population was approximately 75-80% African American. I think the comprehensive impact of declining enrollment, black, white, and other racial/ethnic groups affects our district.”
Future of school district However, Hardin-Bartley recognizes the value of a diverse school district. “We want to have a viable learning environment,” said Hardin-Bartley. “One that reflects the larger global community so diversity is important. Also, we need to maintain or increase enrollment so that we can continue to implement the amazing academic, extracurricular, and athletics programs that all families desire.” In order for the school district to thrive, it would be necessary for the community to get past the negativity associated with U. City schools. After an extensive community engagement
process last spring, the feedback Hardin-Bartley received was “eye opening.” She said that some constituents have never been in our schools, yet they have a negative perception. “In some instances, our academic data does not reflect excellence,” said Hardin-Bartley. “We must and will do better. Finally, I believe that as a school community, we must do a better job of authentically telling our story. We have wonderful students, awesome programming and tremendous opportunities for students. I’m excited about our Learning Reimagined approach and believe that the three pillars-humanize, personalize, and problematize--will enable us to refine our practices while doing what is absolutely best for all students.” Bern thinks a U. City education was valuable experience for her two sons. “I believe, and both of my UCHS alums sons would agree, that attending U. City schools as a white minority student helps you learn how to work with, understand and befriend people from many different backgrounds,” Bern said. “This can be a difficult skill to learn as an adult. In our rapidly changing world it is becoming more important than ever to get along with all kinds of people. The U. City experience helps prepare students for this. Students can get an excellent education at UCHS, if they choose to.” Bern continues that the high school has many outstanding teachers, welcoming sports teams and clubs and many leadership opportunities. “I always recommend that families should take a closer look at our public school system,” Bern said. “It has been a great experience for my family.”
Racial demographics of the high school
White
Black
11.7%
81.3%
5.8%
Asian
1.2% Other
Racial demographics of University City
White
42.1% Black
4.5% Asian
47.8%
5.6%
Other
Source: St. Louis County Forecasting
Single story presents negativity By Lucy Wurst Co-Editor
ook 2016-17
ol?
Ivonne Quiroz, sophomore “People think our school is ghetto, that we’re a poor school and we don’t have any money.”
If you are a fan of “Ted Talks,” then you must watch novelist Chimamanda Adichie speak about the danger of a single story. If you live in University City, you must understand there is a danger in the single story associated with University City High School. In case you haven’t heard, it’s a negative story about drugs, violence and low academics. It simply isn’t true, but since this story is consistently passed back and forth, it becomes somebody’s personal truth, and anything going against that truth, like the positive aspects of the high school, is wrong. People may perpetuate this story without even realizing it. As a result, it becomes widely understood as fact that people in the community are scared to send their children to U. City. U. City is just like other high schools in the metro area. We have dedicated teachers who care about their students and want them to succeed. In fact, Matthew Horn, social studies teacher, was named one of six finalists for Missouri’s 2017-18 teacher of the year. We have sports and extracurricular programs. We have orchestra, band, choir, dance. We have partnerships with COCA, The Kennedy Center, Washington University, Regions and Royal Banks, The Green Center and FIRST Robotics. Students take the same classes that are offered at other schools. However, there is one major difference. We are a majority African American school. The Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education reports that in 2017 the high school was 86% African American and 8% white, which is different from Flynn Park Elementary School at 53% African American and 31% white. Jackson Park’s demographics are similar to the high school with 80.2% African American and 12.8% white. Not only are the white families fleeing before they attend the district high school, but also black families who feel the school is not up to their standards. “I’ll hear people say we don’t have AP classes here,” said Susan Hill, principal. “We have just as many AP classes as Clayton. Or that our kids don’t go to college--we send kids to some of the most competitive schools in the nation. We just had two kids with perfect scores on their ACT.” As a white person, I’m a minority at my school.
I don’t have any fear about the demographics at my school, and because of that, I’ve received an amazing experience and countless opportunities. Through my school, I was selected to be in Youth Leadership Saint Louis, a nationally recognized program. I also received a scholarship to attend a National Leadership conference in Michigan affiliated with the American Youth Foundation. For the second year, I am newspaper co-editor and I’ve taken several AP and dual enrollment classes. I feel thoroughly prepared for college. My experience at U. City is not uncommon. The fear of the high school is manifested in racial biases and stereotypes. Unfortunately, people typically associate drugs, fights, guns and gangs with African Americans so they assume these negative things about the high school without even setting foot in the school. If they did, then much to their surprise, they would see that we are just like most any other high school. “I believe that as a school community, we must do a better job of authentically telling our story,” Sharonica Hardin-Bartley, superintendent, said. “When I interact with all parents, I articulate why I am choosing University City for my daughter. I believe in public education, we have solid academic programs that if implemented with fidelity will yield positive outcomes for students.” It is easy to look at statistics and make assumptions. However, don’t assume that U. City has different problems than any other high school in St. Louis. We may have a higher population of students who are African American and a higher percentage of students who qualify for free and reduced (price) lunch, but that only provides opportunities for students to better understand the world outside of U. City. We think of ourselves as the U. City family. It won’t be easy to eliminate the negative stereotypes. It won’t be easy to change the single story. However, it starts with students, staff and community members beginning to spread a positive narrative and start taking pride in the school. There is also a responsibility on the people who say negative things about the high school to look past that and listen to the facts. Take a walk through our school on any given day. We need to come together as a high school and community to spread a counter narrative and challenge biases to promote change in our community. After all, we are the U. City family.
December 2017
8
features
Friday meditation eliminates distractions
Students reap benefits from relaxation and de-stress techniques By Kathryn Fuller Co-Editor
Every Friday, as the majority of students file into the cafeteria for lunch, a small group of students make their way to the new library wing to de-stress from their day by meditating, led by Deborah Kravitz, counselor. Kayla Merrill, junior, started attending the meditation sessions with a friend and initially thought she wouldn’t like it. “At first I thought it was going to be boring and then it was actually calming and helpful,” Merrill said. Merrill believes that because many high school students have a lot on their plate, meditation is key to de-stress. “I think it’s important for students because school can be overwhelming and stressful, so by having meditation, it’s a good way to reflect and calm down,” Merrill said. The idea of bringing meditation to U. City came to Kravitz after she started practicing yoga over the summer and thought that it would be good to bring into
the school setting. “Students can find this as a way to help cope and take a break from the daily stress,” Kravitz said. Although Kravitz isn’t trained specifically in meditation, she finds that yoga and meditation are similar so she is able to lead students in breathing and visualization exercises. “Yoga and meditation intersect because there’s some deep breathing,” Kravitz said. According to HuffingtonPost.com, meditation reduces stress, improves concentration, and increases happiness. Kravitz wants students to feel all these benefits after practicing meditation. Kravitz starts the meditation session by making the room feel relaxing to students. She brings in her essential oil diffuser and music, then has students focus on a calming image in their mind. “We start with deep breathing, a calm mind, and eliminate outside distractions,” Kravitz said. All students are invited to come on Fridays during A and B lunch.
Listening to Deborah Kravitz, counselor, lead the group in guided meditation, Selena Lewis, senior, closes her eyes. “I like going to meditation every Friday because it really lets me relieve stress from the week,” Lewis said. “Her relaxing music and smells help calm me down.” PHOTO BY SYDNEY LUCAS
Seniors prepare for next step in life
As first semester comes to an end, seniors make final decisions for college By Clayton Miller Staff Writer
Senior year is a challenging time for many high school students. For most, it is the end of an education that has lasted for two-thirds of their life. An ending, but also a beginning. It’s all about figuring out where one would like to spend the next two to four years of life. “Students assume that college is like they see it in movies,” said Katy-Jane Johnson, senior counselor. “College should be a positive experience for students, but in reality it is harder and more challenging than the education they have experienced so far. In college, students don’t have all of the safety nets that exist in high school and no one is watching to make sure you complete work and make deadlines.” U. City’s class of 2018 has applied to a diverse spectrum of schools, including prestigious schools ranging from Harvard to Columbia to Northwestern.
“Many students want to attend college out of state and don’t realize how expensive it is which means many students are forced to take out loans,” Johnson said. “Fortunately, I feel like most students end up attending the school they need to be at.” Not all college-bound students plan to start at four-year schools. Destiny Martin, senior, will be attending St. Louis Community College at Florissant Valley. Martin plans to apply to a four-year school, possibly Webster University, after receiving an associates degree. “My mom took a financial aid class and was told by a millionaire that attending community college is one of the best things you can do,” Martin said. Reginald Jones, senior, hopes to attend Ranken Technical College and receive a two-year automotive degree. Jones anticipates applying to some other colleges in the future.
“Ranken also has a good criminal justice program,” said Jones. “In middle school, my dream college was Harvard.” Daniel Gibson has applied to multiple schools ranging from Taylor University in northeastern Indiana to Washington University, here in St. Louis. “Applying for college took up a lot of my free time,” said Gibson. “If I had a dream college it would be MIT (Massachusetts Institute of Technology),” GIbson added. Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) are popular, too. Students have already been accepted to schools like Harris Stowe, Tennessee State University, Tuskegee, University of Arkansas Pine Bluff and Jackson State University. “Tennessee State University, Missouri State and Ball State have the most applicants from the class of 2018, although other students have applied to
schools like Mizzou and Arkansas Pine Bluff,” guidance secretary Roslyn Hogan said. Alternatively, a few U. City students will be entering the United States Armed Forces after graduating. A group of students recently took the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery test, aka “the ASVAB.” “We have roughly 10 students who I believe may choose to go into the military after graduation,” Col. Tom Henson, ROTC instructor, said. Henson said the reason many students join the military is because they have family members who have served. “When joining the military you are immediately paid, and after successfully completing training, you have the option to attend college simultaneously at no cost,” added Henson.
What is your top college choice?
Jalen Williams, senior Columbia College - Chicago “I want to be a filmmaker, I am inspired by Quentin Tarantino movies.”
Haley Jones, senior Harris Stowe “It’s an HBCU, I’m attending for dance and liberal arts.”
Zoey Jordan, senior
Zahrya Metcalfe, senior
Ball State or Missouri State
Clark-Atlanta University
“Both schools have good nursing programs. I am majoring in nursing because I like to help people.”
go to utimesonline.com for more U. City stories and photos
“Clark-Atlanta visited here my sophomore year and I was impressed, I want to major in communications, to be an actor.”
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features
December 2017
Clothing lines compete in basketball game
Students raise funds for those who cannot afford cap and gown By Lucy Wurst Co-Editor Competing clothing lines MXTROMVB and Billionaire Mindset (BMS), founded by students, came together for a good cause on Oct. 8, facing off in the gym. Each brand sponsored a basketball team, made up of friends and family members. The competing teams’ ultimate goal was to raise money to go towards caps and gowns for seniors who cannot afford to pay for them. “I’m excited to participate in a good cause,” said Davion Crawford, cofounder of MXTROMVB. “Even though we’re playing a game, we’re still focused on raising money.” MXTROMVB is a streetwear clothing line that was started when Davion Crawford was in 7th grade. “My friend and I would talk about clothes a lot and one day I asked him if he wanted to start a clothing line,” said Crawford. “We both wear MXTRO to school and have our friends wear it to promote it. We made an Instagram account for our line and always promote it on social media.” Laverle Davis, senior, owner of BMS, proposed the idea of the game to Susan Hill, principal, weeks before. “I love my school and I wanted to
find a way to give back and this was my way to give back,” said Davis. Davis’ cousin, Ronnie Perkins, senior, who formerly attended U. City, but now goes to Lutheran South, came back to support BMS and the school. “I went to U. City my whole life,” said Perkins. “It’s still my home. I’m here to support my friends and my family. I plan to drop 50 and win for my team.” Students who paid the $2 donation to support the cause filed into the gym at the end of the day and began cheering on the team they supported. “I’m supporting MXTRO because I like the brand,” said De’avion Williams, senior. “I’m supporting my friends and there’s a good cause behind the game.” Music, provided by Khyler Cross, senior, was played over the speakers to keep the crowd energized. “I’m in the audio production class here,” said Cross. “That’s given me experience with DJing and I’ve DJed at other school events too.” The game ended with Billionaire Mindset winning with a score of 79-54. Altogether, the game raised $740 for the cause. “I thought the game was amazing,” said Hill.“It was good fun for a good cause. I’m so proud of our students.”
Team captain Davion Crawford, sophomore, plays for the MXTRO team. “I picked my team based on experience,” said Crawford. “I chose my friends that I knew would help us win.” PHOTOS BY ASHLYNN JENKINS AND LUCY WURST
Do you dread speaking in front of class?
Arneil Brooks, school FA and MXTROMVB team member, dribbles down the court during Friday’s 79-54 loss to Billionaire Mindset. “I’m pretty sure I just got a rebound and drove down the court,” Brooks said.
Sign up for Toastmasters International’s Youth Leadership Program to ease those nerves and gain confidence in public speaking.
Classes take place every Wednesday at 7 p.m. January 31-March 21 at University City Public Library 6701 Delmar Blvd. The course is free and open to all 7th-12th graders. However, space is limited and advance registration is required. Call 314-727-3150 to reserve your spot.
@UCPL_Librarians Warming up before the game, De’Avion Williams, senior, makes a shot. “I played hard so I could give my team the best chance of winning,” said Williams. “I made some shots and I played defense.”
Competing owners Laverle Davis, senior, of Billionaire Mindset, and Davion Crawford, sophomore, of MXTROMVB, embrace after the game.
www.facebook.com/UCityLibrary 6701 Delmar Blvd., University City, MO 63130
www.ucitylibrary.org • 314-727-3150
@UCityLibrary
December 2017
10
features
Physical and mental health fundamentally linked By Julian Albright Sports Editor
A proven connection exists between physical and mental health, and it is in your best interest not to ignore it. “I think mental health is more important [than physical health],” said head basketball coach Kelvin Lee. Lee believes most kids are physically fit, but maintaining prime mental health is also important. “I have my son exercise for one hour everyday,” said Lee. “Fortunately it usually ends up being more than an hour. [Exercising] relieves stress and this is crucial for staying healthy mentally.” According to NAMI (National Alliance of Mental Illness) today in America, one in five people ages 13-18 (21.4% of youth) have a mental health issue, or will have one at some point in these five years. These mental health issues can cause serious chronic physical conditions. There is a proven scientific link
between a human’s physical health and mental health. The World Health Organization (WHO) defines health as “a state of complete physical, mental, and social well being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity. There is no health without mental health.” Poor mental health or serious mental conditions lead to a higher risk for chronic conditions, and people with chronic physical conditions are at higher risk of poor mental health. The key factor in decreasing these risks is exercise. “Our minds are very important,” said Lee. “I believe at least one hour of exercise per day is important in keeping a healthy mind.” It was discovered by the Mental Health Foundation that people with depression have a 67% increased risk of death from heart attacks, and a 50% higher chance of developing cancer. People with schizophrenia have double the risk of death from a heart attacks, and three times the risk of dying from
respiratory disease. However, exercising can help eliminate these risks. According to the National Center for Biotechnology Information, aerobics can combat anxiety and depression by increasing blood circulation. This interacts with the HPA (hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal) axis in the brain that communicates with the regions that control motivation, mood, fear and stress. Therefore during and after exercise, the brain will not focus on these negative emotions. This proves true with high school athletes. “I feel better, yes physically, but also mentally [after exercise],” said Dominic Bryant, junior, a wide receiver on the football team. “Overall I usually feel more happy.” This makes sense coming from a football player who is doing constant aerobic exercise, working out his heart and lungs, every day at practice. Scientifically, his brain will not resort back to depression and anxiety.
Volleyball coach Philip Parrish has witessed this in his own players. “I definitely have seen this,” said Parrish. “I don’t know if I can prove it scientifically, but I have seen it help when dealing with pressure and anxiety.” Parrish said that what is great about sports and exercising is the healthy mindset that people can get into. Exercise also works in other ways for mental health, which is self esteem and personal appearance, something high schoolers typically care about. After exercising, your muscles will look more defined and you will feel more fit. According to Helpguide.org, good exercise habits also foster a sense of self worth that makes you feel stronger and feel better about your appearance. “I definitely feel better about myself after I exercise,” said Peter Zhang, junior wrestler. “It makes me feel better about my personal appearance. Nowadays it’s all about that.”
WINTER SPORTS IN BRIEF GIRLS BOYSBASKETBALL BASKETBALL offItatium of a winvolecto against SiComing il illabo. velFrancis ides Howellsent North, theofficti Lionsvoluptatis head into essum odi ut the break a record of 2-5. Kam alibus, sentwith et omnimus. Bevel, senior, has aut helped Lions by Lorit, ut exceri esti the apienti shooting free throws 93.8 Udit percent, sinctet explign atecus at autem. ranking him third in that category magnatur? in Metro Area. The Lions are set to BOYS BASKETBAL play Priory in the Affton Holiday Tournament on Dec. 26.
GIRLS SWIMMING Girls Basketball The Lady Lions, on a three game Ictendi beate lia ipsae vollecu winningEt streak, .500 heading ptatem. quiaeare nusover ea conse into the break. Chanelle Rice and consequiam earuptae nienisi Diasa Howard, seniors, are both nctaquodit volum acideleni nimil eatem ranked players the St. Louis Metro faccum volo im in aboriatur rem idebiti Area. Rice is ranked 11th the Metro il atassin et dolecab is se resineaquibuscil Area forque three made,fuga. and molest plitpointers laut el ipsunt Howard is tied for 11th in the area for steals with 24.
At the Fourth Annual Fountain City Classic tournament, Diasia Howard, senior, slices through two defenders for a layup. She was fouled in the process and would continue to shoot free throws. “I made both of the shots,” Howard said. “They kept fouling me and the refs weren’t calling it.” PHOTO BY ALONA JENKINS
In the Grove at 4317 Manchester Ave. St. Louis 63110 (314)553-9252
11
sports
December 2017
PIN IT TO WIN IT Returning wrestlers lead the way By Linsey Sparks Staff Writer
The wrestling team has two returning state qualifiers this year, which could mean big things for the team. Last year, Gabe Sekou and Jonathan York, seniors, both qualified for state and are now more determined than ever to get more of the team there. “Gabe and Jonathan’s work ethic pushes everyone to get better in the wrestling room,” said Jason Wells, assistant coach. They try their best to help prepare the other wrestlers for what is to come at future competitions. “Having someone that has been through what you are going to go through is helpful,” said York. “We show them what to do and what not to do in certain situations.” Sekou said that the rest of the team, the freshman in particular, are showing a lot of improvement. Based on this and what else he has seen he is positive that the team will get the bonus points needed to win. Not only does having two previous state qualifiers on the team push everyone else to do their best, but it also gives the team and the coaches hope that more people will qualify this year. Sekou and Wells agree that more than just the previous two will qualify this year. “I expect all four returning team members to qualify for state,” said Wells. Those four team members make up half of the team. So if it all goes as
planned, half of the team will qualify for state. Having two of those four already qualifying once before adds a sense of comfort. “It’s nice to know we have two potential powerhouses on the team,” said Sekou. While it may be comforting at times, being one of the two returning state qualifiers can be stressful at others. When opponents know that you were a qualifier in the previous season, it impacts how others go against you and can be quite stressful. “You’re held to a higher standard,” said York. “You face harder competition and they come at you like you are somebody.” Facing harder competition like that can take a toll on your performance for the season which could, in turn, “lower your odds of winning”. The team already has a current season winner in their midst. Savion Douglas, senior, placed first in his weight class at the Ritenour Tournament on Dec. 9. Two teams from the district were there and Douglas beat every competitor he went up against, allowing him a win at one of the first tournments of the season. Starting the year off on such a good foot, Douglas is extremely confident in himself and the rest of the team for what is remaining of the season at bigger tournaments such as districts. “I think I’m going to do very good at districts,” said Douglas. “We (the team) should do pretty good as well. More people keep coming to practice and we keep getting better everyday.”
Savion Douglas, senior, holds his teammate in a front head lock, a move he’s mastered over his three years on the wrestling team. He started wrestling his sophomore year. “I just wanted to get stronger,” said Douglas. He’s stayed with it all this time because “it’s fun and you meet a lot of people.” PHOTOS BY JULIAN ALBRIGHT
Jonathan York, senior, has been wrestling his entire high school career and has qualified for state twice during his freshman and junior years. “My goal the whole time has been to place at state,” said York.
This hold is called a “half,” according to Gabe Sekou, senior and team captain. “It is one of the most basic moves,” said Sekou. “It is one of the first pinning combinations you are taught as a wrestler.”
GAME CHANGER
New coach brings wealth of experience to basketball court By Julian Albright Sports Editor
Another year brings another new basketball coach to U. City, but this year Coach Kelvin Lee has different intentions than past coaches. Lee played basketball at Houston Baptist University under coach Gene Iba who coached for 15 years at major schools. But college basketball did not translate directly into coaching for Lee. After college, Lee did not have to go far to find work, and worked in the construction industry in Houston, Texas. Years later, Lee was transferred to Florida, where his life began to change. “I was still young enough to play basketball, so I was playing at all the playgrounds and gyms with the young guys,” said Lee. In doing so, Lee became a mentor for the younger boys he played with. He wanted to get guys off the streets, and would explain that hanging in the streets and not going to school would not get them into college. “One morning I just woke up and decided I wanted to coach,” said Lee. So he went to his old high school in Florida and was offered a job right away. After one year, he received a call from his old coach, Iba, asking to come help coach at Baylor. Without any hesitation, Lee took the offer and worked part time at Baylor making $6,000 a year. Lee explains that it was difficult
living with such a low salary but “I knew if I did all the right things [and] stayed out of trouble, that my future was bright in coaching,” Lee said. Little did he know one year after that he would replace assistant Kim Anderson at Baylor (the same Kim Anderson who would end up being head coach for the Missouri Tigers) and would make $47,000 a year. Lee has a long track record after that, including three years at Baylor and three years at St. Louis University, which Lee said was “one of the best decisions I’ve made in my life.” This was followed by a not so great decision to take a coaching job at Texas A&M. “They really mistreated me--and my wife,” said Lee. A&M promised Lee and his wife that they would be able to get his wife a job, which didn’t happen. They also promised that she could travel with the team which also didn’t happen. The negative experience at Texas A&M really took away what coaching meant to him and made him drop out of the business. He moved from Texas back to St. Louis, and after some time off, got a call from Chaminade High School. Lee worked at Chaminade and helped transform three high school kids into well known, first-round NBA draft picks, specifically David Lee, Bradley Beal and Jason Tatum. “Now I’m looking for one [a star
player] at U. City,” said Lee. After 16 years at Chaminade, Lee coached at Miller Career Academy and then became head coach at St. Mary’s, before becoming the head coach at U. City where he has certain ideas he plans to put into place. Lee lent a huge hand in starting the new Restorative Justice program here at U. City. “If you can save kids from being kicked out of school, you’re doing them a great justice,” Lee said. “Sometimes suspending kids isn’t doing any good. [The purpose is] to restore kids and restore trust between teachers and students--to restore undisciplined kids, and to make them feel remorse.” Lee wants to keep kids in school, and mend relationships within the school. Classroom talks have been held, as well
as talks between students, teachers and parents. Lee also aids in restoring pride and school traditions and culture. He plans to restore pride in the boys basketball program as well. “Defense wins championships” will be Lee’s U. City’s motto this season. As cliche as it may sound, Lee firmly stands by this. He also lets on that sophomores Trayvon Robinson and Keyon Beasley are going to lead the Lions this year. “Those two guys are building the core of the team,” said Lee. Players at U. City seem to be just as fond of Lee as he is of U. City. “He’s probably one of the best coaches who ever coached here,” said Robinson, the Lions starting small forward. “He motivates his players. We know that there’s a ‘method to his madness.’”
Unlike many coaches, Lee’s pjilosophy is that he does not use profanity directed at his players during practice.”You can get the most out of kids without using it,” said Lee. PHOTO BY JULIAN ALBRIGHT
‘tis the season for traditions
By Eliot Fuller Staff Writer
When December finally rolls around, everyone knows it’s that time of the year again. The holiday season is in full swing. You can’t step into a local mall without being flooded with the sounds of Christmas music, or turn on the TV without seeing a Christmas commercial. However, one of the biggest, most noticeable things about the holidays might just be the Christmas movies. There are tons of them, and everyone has
a different favorite. “My favorite Christmas movie is ‘The Polar Express,’” Nala Caldwell, freshman, said. “I like it because of the message, and the fact that it’s not surrounded by Santa Claus.” Other students like Annie Rhodes, sophomore, prefer the Christmas comedies. “My favorite Christmas movie is probably Elf,” Rhodes said. “It’s been a tradition with my family to watch it in the
Staff Picks
month of December every year.” Tristan Tyler, senior, enjoys the well-known Christmas classic “Home Alone.” “I like the characters and the pranks they pull off,” Tyler said. “The comedy is really funny too.” Even teachers watch Christmas movies to get in the holiday spirit. Amanda Bell, FACS teacher, has a love for Christmas, and especially a certain movie that comes with it. “My favorite Christmas
movie is totally ‘Santa Claus is Coming to Town,’” Bell said. “My family watched it a lot growing up, and it’s one of the claymation movies, which I like.” No matter what you watch around the holidays, there are tons of movies to entertain everyone. Grab the eggnog, start up the fire, and get comfortable. With all of the Christmas movies out there, your only problem will be finding out how to watch them all.
U-TIMES U. City High School 7401 Balson Ave University City, MO 63130
U-Times 2017 Volume 28, Issue 2
What is your favorite Christmas movie?
Favorite Christmas movies
“Merry Christmas, Drake and Josh” -Lucy Wurst “Elf” “Home Alone”
-Kathryn Fuller -Julian Albright
“Twelve Dates of Christmas” -Ashlynn Jenkins “Home Alone” “The Grinch”
Cheyenne Poland “The Mistle Tones because I love musicals and love Tia Mowry.”
Destiny Martin “Elf because it’s kid-friendly and funny at the same time.”
-Eliot Fuller -Zhong-Mei Webb
“All I Want for Christmas” -Linsey Sparks
HOLIDAY CHEER
“The Year Without Christmas” -Kaya Blount “The Christmas Story” -Clayton Miller
Destiny Moore “I like the Polar Express because it’s about believing in something that may or may not be real.”
Taren Harris “The Polar Express is my favorite because it has a deep meaning of believing and trusting your instincts.”
Darrion Hutton “Home Alone because this movie makes us come together and drink hot coco.”
Justus Sekou, sophomore plays trumpet at the Winter Concert. PHOTO BY ASHLYNN JENKINS