December 2014 U-Times by Utimes

U. City High School 7401 Balson Ave. University City, MO 63130

U-Times December 2014 Volume 25, NEWS MAGAZINE Issue 2

Students protest grand jury verdict More coverage on page 2 & 8. PHOTO BY PAYTON BASS

In this issue

News

• Do students read? • Healthy food guidelines

4-5 Technology • Social Media • Technology in school

Features

• Fall play • “Mockingjay” review

Sports

• Fall sports banquet • Girls swimming

OPINION

U-Times December 2014

2014-2015 U-Times Staff

Co-Editors: Lily Lewis-Stump & Alice Mutrux Associate Editor/Web Editor: Christine Politte Staff Writers/Photographers: Brooklyn Bass Francene Bethune Hannah Fuller Johanna Hill Barbara Mulser Daniel Williamson Adviser Mrs. Mary Williams

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 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.

Contact Us We are located in Room 346 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.

Policies 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 346, or to any U-Times staff member, or to marywilliams@ucityschools.org.

PHOTO BY PAYTON BASS

STAFF EDITORIAL

Mike Brown case highlights deep-rooted racism On Nov. 24, the decision regarding the indictment of Officer Darren Wilson was released. Many gathered at the steps of the Clayton Courthouse and in the heart of Ferguson to hear the announcement by Robert McCulloch, St. Louis County Prosecuting Attorney. It was announced that no charges were found against Wilson and that he would not be indicted. This did not mean simply that a man was not going to court. No, this meant so much more. Soon after the decision was announced people began protesting in anger at not only the grand jury decision, but also the justice system. In the hours following the decision over 80 civilians were arrested, tear gas was used by police officers, cars were set on fire, two highways shut down and 12 buildings burnt in Ferguson. However, in the days to follow, peaceful protesting in several states helped people send their message. Some responded to this saying it was hopeless to protest against a decision that was set in stone, but what they didn’t quite understand was that the issue was no longer an unarmed teenager being shot to death by a police officer. It was now so much bigger than that. Mike Brown’s death shot the world into

a frenzy of realization about not only racism, but more directly how law enforcement officers unjustly treat those of color or lower class. This has led to widespread protest of the systematic oppression of minorities by way of our country’s justice system. People fear that this grand jury decision proves that police officers can get away with almost anything. They have total control over civilians and their fate. This is especially an issue for people of color as it is statistically proven that African Americans are targeted by police officers. As we grow up, we are taught that the police are here to serve and protect our community. However, many people feel that police officers instead inflict fear and prove to be a source of harm in our society. This issue has been touched on in the aftermath of the unrest in Ferguson with the suggestion of placing cameras on officers and their cars to record not only the people they arrest but their actions as well. It seems that people are not quite satisfied with this option and further question why we should fear those put in place to protect us. Instead, people are wondering why they hurt us and in some cases, such as Mike Brown’s, kill us.

How can we promote racial tolerance?

Seemingly, it is not just corrupt officers that are responsible for the misfortune of African Americans in the criminal justice system, but it appears that the institution itself may be inherently racist and also at fault for unjust arrests and deaths. Our fear derives from the fact that law enforcement is capable of injustice and that the criminal justice system fails to respond appropriately. When Wilson fired his gun, he also fired off a revolution against the oppression of African Americans in today’s society. His killing brought to light the racism of America, a nation that boasts of its equality and freedom. With this killing, more people realized the monumental problems of racism we have in our country. On Aug. 9, a boy was lost to death, but in his death we rediscovered an age-old issue that can no longer be ignored. With the tragic end of Michael Brown’s life we hope this incident will provide inspiration to end oppression and institutionalized racial discrimination. Incidents like the shooting of Michael Brown have happened before, but the anger has always died down before any major reforms are made. Let’s hope that this time we can find the inspiration to create lasting changes.

We thank our supporters for donating to our student publication! If you are interested in donating, please e-mail Mary Williams at marywilliams@ ucityschools.org.

Writer/Photographer ($20 or less) Anonymous Anonymous Anonymous Becki Null Judith Fuller Assistant Editor ($25-$40)

Tanyra Blackmon, junior

Jihira Patton, senior

Jerome Woods, sophomore

“First we have to accept the fact that everyone isn’t the same. Once we accept that we can move on because we aren’t living in the past anymore.”

“I think the ‘Black lives matter’ ribbons help promote racial tolerance because people of all races are wearing the ribbons, and also teachers.“

“We can’t end racism. Everyone has to survive on their own.”

Lisa Brenner and Mike Hill Matthew Tuths Jan Vieth and Dave Politte Editor-in-chief ($45-$75) John and Patricia Thomas Publisher ($80 or more)

Want More News? Check out utimesonline.com for more stories, photos, polls, and sports updates!

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U-Times December 2014

NEWS

Technology revolutionizes reading habits By Christine Politte Web Editor/Associate Editor In recent years, bold headlines about the state of teen reading have sent parents and teachers across the country into a frenzy: “Major drop in teens and reading,” “Teens Don’t Read for Fun Anymore, New Data Says,” “Why Aren’t Teens Reading Like They Used To?” These studies and articles decry technological changes and other factors that have “corrupted” a generation. Indeed, many U. City students don’t feel like they’re doing much reading. According to a U-Times survey of 82 freshmen, over half read once a week or less, and almost one in four had something negative to say about the subject, usually that they simply don’t like it. Jonah Zukosky, junior, is one of those students. “I wish I enjoyed reading, but I don’t enough to justify it,” said Zukosky. According to several U. City staff members, many kids who don’t like reading feel this way because they haven’t encountered many books on their reading level. “Across U. City only about 30 to 35 percent of the students are reading on grade level, depending on which test you look at,” said Declan Fitzpatrick, district communication arts and social studies coordinator, in an email. “The biggest

problem that happens when students fall below grade level is that they read less of what is assigned at school,” he said, which just makes the next year more difficult until reading becomes too overwhelming to be engaging. Ms. Hackmeyer, English department chair, admits that the limited options presented in most English classes can also make reading less appealing, “Students really crave choice,” said Hackmeyer. Many books traditionally offered in English classes are difficult for students to relate to, Hackmeyer said, while assigning modern young adult fiction can be considered “dumbing down” the class. While reading the classics can be rewarding, she said, “I also find a lot of value in reading something that is relevant for you.” Surveyed freshmen took issue with reading assigned by teachers. Only 6 percent liked these assignments, while another 7.5 percent conceded that it would be beneficial in the long run. Forty percent of students said they dislike reading assignments; some wrote in all caps or punctuated their statements with exclamation points to emphasize their displeasure. Time can also be a factor. Between school, extracurriculars, having a social life, and sometimes working, almost one in five

surveyed students said they simply don’t have enough time to read. “I’m a very active person and I play sports so I rarely get time to do anything but study and get homework done,” commented one freshman. Despite students’ insistence that they don’t like reading, however, they may be doing more of it than they realize. According to the Young Adult Library Services Association, many of the articles decrying the decline of reading are focused exclusively on books. According to the organization, many people think the only “real” type of reading is done with books and do not realize just how much they read in other places. Survey results may reflect that idea. Although almost 24 percent said they didn’t like reading, 70 percent use social media on a regular basis, and over 20 percent read articles on the internet in their spare time, including some of the same students who said they prefer not to read. Only about one in three students said they read books on their own. Hackmeyer and Fitzpatrick both agree that technology has led to students reading more, even if they do so on less traditional platforms like the internet. “I think students are reading more than ever, because they have instant access to information they are interested in, and because young adult literature has so many

more choices,” said Fitzpatrick. “I think the few (and I do think it is a few) students who say they don’t like to read, just haven’t found the kinds of reading they like. Some people don’t like novels, but will read about celebrities, or video games, or cars, or fashion or music.” Ms. Halter, English teacher, isn’t so sure that kids are reading more, but she still finds that technology can create interest in the written word. “I think that any reading is great reading,” said Halter. Hackmeyer sees the benefits of these new types of reading but still thinks books have their place. “It can be difficult to get past all the noise we live in,” Hackmeyer said. “It’s very convenient [to read on the Internet], but I think in the end we get more from longer, structured reading.” Markeze Gray-Williams, junior, agrees. “It’s hard for me to put a book down when I get into it,” he said. That feeling, said Halter, is exactly what English teachers want to hear. Reading is useful for more than doing well on tests or even being successful in college, she said. Halter’s sums up her passion for reading in a quote she admires, “A reader experiences many lives throughout their lifetime; a non-reader only experiences their own.”

Students skeptical of new national nutrional guidelines By Francene Bethune Staff Writer Between classes, at lunch or even after school, there is barely time to think about eating healthy, especially when the lines in the cafeteria are massive and usually take more time than needed. It’s tempting for students to go the quick and easy route of grabbing an adolescent favorite like Hot Cheetos, Cheese Ruffles, Nacho Cheese Doritos or candy. According to the St. Louis PostDispatch, “Sweeping changes to food sold in schools were prompted by the Healthy, Hunger-Free Act passed in 2010. The legislation aimed to reduce America’s childhood obesity epidemic and lifelong health risks by improving access to nutritional meals. New rules increased the servings of fruits and vegetables and set requirements on the amount of whole grains, calories, fat and sodium in food.” Along with school districts around the St. Louis area, U. City has conformed to national nutritional standards and replaced all products in the vending machines with snacks full of fiber and whole grain. In fact, soda machines are now completely filled

with diet sodas with 50 calories or less. Najah Weekly, senior, splits her days by attending U. City in the morning and North Tech in the afternoon. She usually rushes to beat the crowd in the cafeteria on her way out to North Tech. “During three years at U. City it has always been the same,” said Weekly. “I walked into the cafeteria and I was surprised not to see the vending machine crowd, but when I took a look my mind just changed because healthy snacks were [previously] not the norm.” According to BagTheJunk.org, at the start of the 2014-15 school years, all foods sold in school cafeterias, including the vending machines, have to meet national nutritional standards. The changes in the vending machine went from junk food to “smart food.” Smart food is snacks that are proven to help children grow and focus more in school. Prior to publishing the smart snack mandate, 39 states already had this nutrition standard in place. Along with 83.7% of school districts, U. City has taken the healthy route, according to the National School Board. Along with the new foods comes higher

prices which are not directly proportional, or at least that’s the way it appears according to junior Alonzo Jenkins. He said it appears that students are getting less for more money. “On days when running out of the house I have little time to actually pack my lunch,” said Jenkins. “The changes are necessary but it’s not the school’s job to change our diet.” Students are buying less food at school, so it is not clear if they are really becoming less attached to fatty, unbalanced and oversized foods. Mr. Maclin, principal, is not really worried about the profit loss from decreased sales because he considers eating healthy more important. “There was a financial decrease, but training kids to eat healthy from an early age helps in the long run for them to grow and focus more in school,” said Maclin. “Even though the income from the vending machine decreased, they will adapt.” Adolescents are all about fried food and taking the easy way out. When the vending machine went from fried chips to baked, Mr. Tuegel, health teacher, did

not worry about the state of the vending machines but that students will continue to eat unhealthy foods outside school. And it appears many students are simply bringing more junk food from home instead of using the vending machines. In fact, some students are trying to sell unhealthy snacks at school. “You can change the foods in the school, but you can’t change the students,” said Tuegel.

At lunch, junior Imani Cooley and senior Jordan Jennings react to the changes in the school lunch guidelines. They were served whole grain pasta with tomato sauce, parmesan chicken and a bread stick. PHOTO BY FRANCENE BETHUNE

Tech Effect

Internet Bytes: Social media habits raise risks, rewards for users By Brooklyn Bass Staff Writer Rontrell Gentry, junior, begins the day with the ringing of an alarm clock. Sleep is cut short. With a slight groan and closed eyes, the groping begins. It continues until Gentry’s tablet is recovered from the charger. From here, messages are checked and social media networks, like Instagram and Tumblr, are scrolled through until the most recent update from last night appears on the screen. “I can’t just not check my tablet in the morning,” said Gentry. “It’s just something I do.” Gentry is not the only one who starts the morning with social media updates. Michael Lavender, senior, checks his feed and even takes the time to post a selfie or a screenshot of his favorite song. “I try to post once a day,” said Lavender. For the average social media user, accessing social networking sites has become an integrated component of

one’s daily routine. According to the Huffington Post, there are 575 likes and 81 comments by Instagram users every second. In 2012, there were 175 million tweets sent every day, as reported by Infographics Labs. The Dilemma Although increased social media use has its positive effects—creating jobs and connecting people on a global scale— there is a sense of animosity towards it. Some find that others are braver and more open about their lives on the internet. The "loves of their lives" for the moment are announced with clever hashtags like #WomanCrushWednesday and #ManCrushMonday. “I feel that it is an appreciative thing—a way to show appreciation for someone you have feelings for,” said senior Diamond Jones. “It’s a sweet gesture.” On the contrary, enemies are confronted with harsh, shrewd words—behavior typically not apparent off com-

puter and phone screens. "You don’t have to see the person’s face—just the computer screen,” said junior Jillian Pritchard. “So, it’s not a lot of pressure.” Junior Briana Hudson finds that social media is a contributing factor to ultimately stunting face-to-face interpersonal skills. "People lack physical interaction," said Hudson. "They would rather stay inside than outside." Catfished Frighteningly, a selective group of people exaggerate their online personas to very deceptive levels, which is commonly referred to as “catfishing.” By creating fake profiles or overly editing their photos, people are inventing new lives. "I have never been catfished before," said senior Myeisha Jamison. "But I think a girl I know is catfishing people. Her picture on Kik is never of herself." Nev Schulman’s Catfish, a documen-

tary and an MTV reality show, explores the amount of dishonesty found online. After being "catfished" himself by a middle-aged woman posing as a young adult, Schulman acquired a sense of devotion to aid those facing similar scenarios. On his show, online scammers and deceitful internet users get busted by the very technology that makes catfishing possible. "On Instagram I thought I followed an old buddy from middle school," Jamison said. "I found out that it wasn't her. Some girl has been creating fake profiles of people throughout high school." Assuming false identities can reach criminal levels. Sexual predators and financial schemers use the internet as a tool to prey on and contact those most active on the internet. “People are crazy these days,” Jamison said. “You gotta watch out.”

PAGE DESIGN BY CHRISTINE POLITTE, HANNAH FULLER AND JOHANNA HILL

Social butterflies Students use Instagram to update their peers about their current moods and love lives.

Asante Robinson, senior My Ex He Call Me All The Time And He Say I Cant Get You Off My Mind... 51 likes

Cameron Keys, senior, posting photo of Diamond Jones, senior eleven minus one, yeah she a dime forreal #wcw 29 likes

Michael Lavender, senior Now it’s a joke, it’s a game, Why I am i still keeping score? 20 likes

How could our school better utilize technology?

Alica Trotter, junior “I feel like we could use computers more because we don’t always have the resources to do the project.”

Seniors Karen McKinney, Cleo Pleasant and Perri Griffith use Chromebooks to work on an assignment for Mr. Stuart’s World Lit class. “I think [the Chromebooks] are good because it’s very convenient for us,” said Griffith. “We can get more work done here rather than taking it home. While you’re doing it in class, you can ask more questions.” PHOTO BY CHRISTINE POLITTE

“Unplugged” campus sends students back in time By Alice Mutrux Co-Editor In 1913, Thomas Edison boldly predicted the future of education, saying, “Books will soon be obsolete in public schools. Scholars will be instructed through the eye. Our school system will be completely changed inside of ten years.” Although a century later paper still dominates the classroom, there still may be truth behind Edison’s words. High schools across the country are beginning to view phones and computers as valuable tools for learning and communicating. Because of this, some students view U. City’s “unplugged” campus as regressive. “As technology advances, more technology will be needed for work, for living,” said Derrick Freeman, senior. “If you don’t teach technology, how do you expect people to work with technology past high school?” Seniors destined for college share concerns that they will be caught off guard by how technologically advanced universities have become in recent years and won’t be able to keep up. “If you don’t use technology during high school, you’re not going to be adequately prepared to use it in college,” said Freeman. Fellow senior Malik Johnson agrees. “U. City seems to be going back in time instead of moving forward,” said Johnson. “I should be able to use my laptop and phone to take notes, check

grades, and communicate with teachers like I’ll be doing this time next year.” Underclassmen find that being barred from phones, tablets and computers during school hours is confusing considering their lives outside of school revolve around technology. “It’s weird to walk into school and not be able to have our phones out to Google something or text,” said Tamiyah Churchman, freshman. It’s weird because we’re so used to it. My phone is my baby. It’s like my child. When I lose it, I cry. We’re teens, we

“I should be able to use my laptop and phone to take notes, check grades and communicate with teachers like I’ll be doing this time next year.”

-Malik Johnson, senior

like electronics!” Progressive schools, many of which are on the West Coast, have made efforts to “meet kids where they live,” said Michelle Spencer, principal of New Tech, a technologically advanced California High School. Where the students live, she says, is online. Lance Taylor, freshman, agrees. “I think we should utilize technology as much as possible,” said Taylor. “Our generation lives in technology. Back when they used to use pencil and paper, it made sense to use those things

in school. Nowadays we use phones and computers.” Mr. Stuart, English teacher, actively encourages his students to do research, write papers, and submit daily work on Google Chromebooks. Although he believes that their work quality will remain the same regardless of medium, he wants to prepare them for what they will inevitably face after high school. “We’re encouraging students to live in a double standard,” said Stuart. “We’re not facing the fact that our students can’t keep their noses out of their phones. There is no such thing as an ‘unplugged’ public high school.” Others argue that the disconnect between home life and school life is a positive thing. “In general, most schools by now have computers in every classroom. Having a phone in your hand—which is essentially a mini computer—is redundant,” said senior Rebekah Lyons. “School and home should be separate. You have books [in school] and a lot of other resources.” Regardless, it is apparent that the future of technology in schools is bright. Perhaps in just a few years U. City classrooms will be taught by robot teachers and textbooks will be a thing of the past. “The future of education is in technology because the future is in technology,” said Stuart. “So, if education is not about technology, then it is not about the future.”

Makaya Johnson, freshman “I like how we have the Chromebooks; they are very helpful. We could get more and have more available for classes.”

Jacinta Woods, junior “Right now I don’t think there is anything wrong with it [technology].”

Andrew White, senior “The school should update the technology for the teachers who will use it and incorporate it in class. Other teachers are quite happy with a white board.”

FEATURES

U-Times December 2014

Fall play overcomes obstacles By Hannah Fuller Staff Writer As set crew began placing extra chairs in the back of the auditorium to accommodate the 140 people attending, the excitement and nervousness started to build. After a few words from Mrs. Goodbrake, director, the lights dimmed and the show began. “Before the play everyone was nervous, some staring into space, some hugging each other, some joking around,” said Raven Bullard, sophomore. Bullard, who acted in both plays this year, enjoyed the characters she had a chance to transform into. “I always love becoming another person.” said Bullard. “This play I was a teacher and a crazy cheerleader. To play the different roles I have to channel different personalities that are always inside of me.” Similar to last year, this year there were two mini plays: “Hex Marks the Spot” and “Screenagers.” “‘Hex Marks the Spot’ was about a girl named Jean who can grant wishes but it’s through dark magic,” said Maurice House, senior, who acted in both plays. “’Screenagers’ was about a variety of teens addicted to technology. Other than some volume problems, the plays were a success.”

“Hex Marks the Spot” was performed by the Drama Club while “Screenagers” was performed by Goodbrake’s theater class. With a few setbacks, including the villain in “Hex Marks the Spot” moving to another school and a suspension two days before opening night, it was a scramble for some to learn extra lines to cover the actors. Justice Brent, freshman, stepped up to the challenge by playing four roles on account of the missing actors. “I rehearsed a lot,” said Brent. “I think it turned out well on both nights.” With no previous acting experience, Brent had to adapt to the many roles. “I played a grandma in ‘Screenagers’ and so I had to get my mindset into an older person and I had to change my voice,” she said. Goodbrake was especially impressed with Brent, as she is a young actor. “Justice had a lot of demands,” said Goodbrake. “She really rose to the occasion; she had two parts memorized in two weeks.” Even with the roadblocks, Goodbrake was pleased with the performance. “I’m very proud of my actors,” said Goodbrake. “I’m very happy with the outcome.”

R e v i e w ‘Mockingjay, Part One’ By Johanna Hill Staff Writer In the third installment of the “Hunger Games” series, Katniss Everdeen has been rescued from her second Hunger Games by the underground operation of District 13, only to struggle with the responsibility of becoming the face of the rebellion against the Capitol: the Mockingjay. Darker than both of the previous “Hunger Games” films, “Mockingjay Part One” is intense. Katniss is affected by PTSD, and quite a bit of the movie is devoted to her emotional struggles. When not focusing on Katniss’s mental state, the movie bombards the audience with explosions and scenes of rebellion in the districts. This is not necessarily a bad thing; she has to actually think about what she is doing instead of just blindly rebelling. It can be a bit repetitive, though, and makes the movie more difficult to watch. The movie is well-cast: Jennifer Lawrence continues to be outstanding as Katniss, and Elizabeth Banks provides some much-needed comic relief as Katniss and Peeta’s frivolous former escort, Effie Trinket. Since Peeta has been captured by the Capitol, he does not get much face time, but his character manages to be both heartbreaking and terrifying regardless. Despite its strengths, “Mockingjay Part One” continues the recent trend of splitting book adaptations into an excessive amount of movies. As a result, the movie feels unfinished, and leaves the audience somewhat confused as to what the point was. It is pretty good as two separate parts, but as one movie, it would have been excellent.

In “Hex Marks the Spot,” the main character, Jean (Lottie Shird, junior), is held captive because Dexter (Jermal Perkins, sophomore), Liz (Delsheia Shears) and Karma (Ariel Mayo) want her to use her power to grant their wishes. As a result, chaos ensued and all of their wishes backfired. PHOTO BY HANNAH FULLER

Holiday traditions differ across the globe Barbara Mulser Staff Writer--Brazilian Foreign Exchange Student Not everybody celebrates Christmas. In our diverse world, many religions do not view the birth of Jesus Christ as a holiday. Christmas is for Christians who celebrate Jesus Christ’s birth. For those who do celebrate Christmas, every family has their own traditions. Christa Zhang, sophomore, said she is a Christian, but her parents have no religion, so Christmas is just a normal day in her house. ‘’I wish they were Christians like my sister and I so they could go to church with us and experience the glory of God but they do not want to,” she said. “They do not want to rely on a being they think is not real.’’ Even though senior Sloan Marion’s family is Baptist and they celebrate Christmas, Marion is a Unitarian Universalist, part of a community bonded by principles, not by beliefs. ‘’It’s classified as non-denominational Christianity but you don’t have to be Christian,’’ Marion said. On the other hand, people of the Jewish faith do not celebrate either Christmas or the New Year. They recognize that Jesus existed but there is no relation of divinity to Him. For instance, Josh Stueck, junior, and his family are conservative Jews, which he said means that he is basically in the middle of the spectrum. Even though they celebrate Hannukah, it’s not that big of a deal to them. ‘’Each night, at sundown, we all light our own little menorahs,” Stueck said. “We do that eight nights, adding one more candle each night. We say a few prayers, and then go back to doing whatever it was we had been doing before. At least one night we’ll play dreidel and have latkes, but that’s pretty much it. It’s a

fun holiday, but we don’t make it a big deal just because it’s around Christmastime.’’ It’s not uncommon for people of diverse faiths, particularly in countries outside of the U.S., to believe in higher beings other than Jesus Christ. Islamic countries like Indonesia, Pakistan, Bangladesh,Turkey, Egypt, Nigeria, Libya and Iran follow the teachings of Muhammad. Countries that adopt Buddhism as a religion, like many Asian countries, do not involve the particular characteristic of the birth of Jesus Christ. Conversely, Catholics base their entire religion on the birth of Jesus Christ. Although the traditions in each family vary, the celebration centers on the “miracle” of Jesus’ birth as the Son of God. Many in European and American countries recognize this as the only reason for Christmas. In Brazil, most people are Catholic and celebrate Christmas by putting up a Christmas tree, making a huge dinner on Dec. 24, praying and exchanging presents.They also raise money to buy toys and food for people who are in need or are in institutions. Catholics in the U.S. celebrate much the same way. For instance, senior Emily Looby’s family is Catholic and they have formed their own traditions. “For my family, it’s about everybody coming together and it’s not really about getting gifts,” said Looby. “We usually go to mass every Sunday as a family, but Christmas Eve is more special because it’s more of a celebration. After church, we eat dinner, make a fire and my brothers and I get to do whatever we want—it’s like a free pass to eat as much junk food as we want and watch TV. On Christmas morning, my family wakes up early and exchanges gifts.”

U-Times December 2014

SPORTS

Fall sports close with banquet Athlete Profile

By Daniel Williamson Staff Writer Even though the cafeteria was the setting, the occasion was not lunch. Instead, parents, teachers, coaches and students alike arrived for a dinner and awards ceremony for the annual fall sports banquet. The banquet began with a greeting from Mr. Hill, athletic director, as he introduced the coaches of the fall sports teams. All of the coaches were present except for Head Football Coach Allen. After a brief salutation, it was time to get in line for the dinner provided by Andre’s Banquet & Catering. Once the coaches finished their dinner, they began to address their thoughts and feelings about their teams and seasons. First up was Head Cross Country Coach Crowe, who took the podium and reflected on the season. “There was a lot of improvement this season,” said Crowe. “By the end [of the season] everyone ran their personal best times and there were four state qualifying runners, which was the most since 2008.” One of those state qualifying runners was senior Cleo Pleaseant. “When I qualified for state in districts I felt like I really achieved something, and improved my skills as a runner,” said Pleaseant. After Crowe’s address, Head Swim Coach Tuegel made his comments with zeal. “The season went well and had a very favorable schedule,” said Tuegel. “We ended up being fifth in our conference, which has been awhile since we’ve achieved that. In recent years we have come in seventh, eighth, or ninth place.” Next was Head Volleyball Coach Cloud who took to the podium to give his speech. “The season was a bit strange due to the fact that there were only two returning varsity players, but there was a lot of individual growth within the team,” said Cloud. Spontaneously, the volleyball players surprised Cloud by going up to the podium and giving him a framed picture of the team with their signatures on it to show him their appreciation for him as a coach. The picture can now be seen on the bulletin board in Cloud’s classroom. Head Softball Coach Byrne described his season as a very up-and-down experience. “It was a roller coaster ride. This season reminded me of one of my favorite movies, Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde,” he said. The softball team found Byrne’s speech entertaining and

laughable. “He used some cheesy humor, but it was funny,” said sophomore softball player Yasmeen Coby. At one point in the evening, Hill addressed the personal struggle of Yabsra Belayneh, senior, trying to pursue his dream of playing soccer. Belayneh, who is from Ethopia, attended court sessions with the Missouri State High School Activities Association, better known as MSHSAA, in hopes to receive the chance to return to the soccer team. However, Belayneh was 19 years old at the time, which wasn’t within MSHSAA’s 18-year old age limit. He was denied the opportunity to rejoin the team due to his age. “I’m really thankful for Mr. Hill for mentioning that there,” said Belayneh. “It was kind of sad, but I was happy that he talked about it because it encouraged me.” All in all, the athletes thought the sports banquet was a great way to close up the season and congratulate those who showed athletic excellence. “I think it’s important to give recognition to people for their physical ability and skills,” said senior field hockey player Kerstin Morley, who received a First All Team Conference honors for her sport. “The banquet provided closure for what was my last fall sports season,” said senior swimmer Henry Braeske.

The girl’s volleyball team surprises Head Volleyball Coach Cloud, with a signed team photograph and cookies after he gives his speech at the fall sports banquet. “I was surprised at the banquet when the varsity team gave me the gift,” said Cloud. “It’s nice to know that the work you put into a season is appreciated regardless of the outcome.” PHOTO BY DANIEL WILLIAMSON

Swim team suffers from small size By Daniel Williamson Staff Writer One of the less publicized sports at U. City is girls swimming. In fact, some students don’t even know the Natatorium exists. As a third-year swimmer, junior Korinna Brandt feels the pain of the team’s small size. “While swimming might seem like it’s an individual, swimming is actually a team sport because we all help the team score points in order to win meets,” said Brandt,.“That is why we need more members.” Junior Alexandra Jolliff backs up Brandt’s opinion. “The way the scoring is set up, the more races our team is in, the more we score,” said Jolliff. “However, there’s a limit to how many races a person can do, and there are some teams we can’t beat even if we win every race.” Head Swim Coach Lhotak strongly thinks it is a necessity to increase the size of the team. “We need more members because in order to fill out the whole roaster in a meet we need 16 or 17 swimmers, and we only have 10,” said Lhotak.

Sophomore Ericah Brown also feels that there aren’t enough swimmers when comes down to the line-up of swim meets. “We need more people because our players usually don’t get enough rest,” said Brown. “One time I had to do two races back-toback, which was very tiring.” Brown believes that the team isn’t very well-known either. “We’re an overshadowed sport,” said Brown. “Most people don’t know about us and don’t even know that we have a pool until I tell them about it.” Korinna Brandt, junior, swims the breaststoke during a practice that only three people attended. “I wish our team would have more people so that we could actually participate in more relays to get more points and actually win some meets,” she said. PHOTO BY DANIEL WILLIAMSON

TORIANO JOHNSON

PHOTO BY FRANCENE BETHUNE

Aspiring college wrestler works to meet goals By Francene Bethune Staff Writer Junior Toriano Johnson has many goals academically, but he has one goal in life that’s going to take more to accomplish than just a simple match. As winter sports begin, the boys’ wrestling team would like to forget their tough season last year. “I was only a freshman when I started and I improved dramatically,” said Johnson. “I just know I can be useful to my teammates.” While many wrestlers are focused on learning new moves, Johnson is more focused on learning the strategies of his opponent and taking them down. In Johnson’s opinion, motivation is the key for success and with Coach Morgan on the sideline encouraging the team, this will not be a problem. “My motivation comes from wanting to go to college and that encourages me more to pursue my future,” said Johnson. With his tranquil attitude and the encouragement that comes from his teammates and family, when Johnson is facing his opponent he does not worry about the stats and downgrading of an already unpopular sport with the reputation of U. City. “I have fears sometimes; I don’t let that bother me even though they might have more experiences than me,” said Johnson. In fact, Johnson hopes to get noticed at state competition so that in the near future a free ride to college could be an option for him. Along with a few of his teammates, Coach Morgan is confident about their entry into state. “From freshman year to junior year you can see the difference,” said Morgan. “You would never think boys who walked in knowing nothing may be considered for state.”

FERGUSON PROTESTS

U-Times December 2014

Students across St. Louis walkout for justice

By Brooklyn Bass Staff Writer Throughout the week of Dec. 1, students from several high schools of the St. Louis metropolitan region have been protesting the grand jury’s decision to not indict Officer Darren Wilson—Michael Brown’s killer. According to the St. Louis Post Dispatch, more than 250 students from Northwest Law Academy, Clyde C. Career Academy, Vashon High School, Gateway STEM, and the private, Catholic Cardinal Ritter High School walked out of their classes and marched together. The St. Louis Public Schools were not the only campuses with walkouts occurring. In fact, many students from the FergusonFlorissant region walked out of classes as well. Even at U. City, students left class to express their disapproval of the grand jury’s decision. “I honestly walked out because I believed that it was right,” said junior Imani Gleason. “Not because my peers thought it was right, but because I did. The protest was all about unity, just about us coming together realizing these deaths couldn’t just be swept under the rug anymore. It was also about proving to our administrators that we do understand that we are capable of coming together without there being a fight or altercation.” Although students thought that their

3 1. Dante Edwards and Ellen McGraw, seniors, participate in the walkout Dec. 3 to protest the Ferguson grand jury decision. 2. Teaira Wilhite, junior, Aanya Robinson, sophomore, and Bria Harris, sophomore, reach out from the choir room to support the student protestors. 3. Assistant Principal Ms. Hill supervises students protesting outside. “We promote them protesting, but we don’t want it to disrupt the learning environment. I calmly steped outside and stayed there to make sure they were safe,” said Hill. 4. Imani Gleason and G’Lina Matthews, juniors, join the Dec. 3 walkout. “I was out there to show that we need to unite and how to come together and have a positive protest,” said Gleason. 5. Freshman Alex Cunningham and senior Cameron Keys were not satisfied with the protest. “I want to do way more than a little sit-in,” said Keys. “I don’t want people to think this is over.” 6. Tamara Holland, sophomore, participates in the “die-in” Dec. 5. “At first it was a little crazy because I don’t think a lot of people were taking it seriously, but once [the protest] started, a lot of people actually did pay a lot of respect,” said Holland.

choice to leave class was justifiable, word from school administration implied that protests like walking out of class and sit-ins at lunch were unjustified. Such protests were thought to be not peaceful and distracting from the main focus of school. “You can’t disrupt the order of school,” Mr. Maclin, principal, said. “This is a learning environment. Learning comes first. There’s nothing wrong with a peaceful demonstration, but it can’t disrupt.” For that reason, members of Student Council and class officers tasked themselves with organizing a peaceful protest that could unify the school in a positive manner. Inspired by the “die-in” staged at Clayton High School, Student Council and class officers organized a similar protest. Students would lie on the floor posed as if they were dead for four and half minutes, just as Brown’s dead body laid out on the street for four and a half hours. It was planned to occur during seminar travel time. However, the Student Council members and class officers that opted to participate in the protest risked probation, according to junior Jillian Pritchard. The carefully planned protest went as intended on Dec. 5. Students from all grade levels lay out in the halls. “I believe that we were expecting the worst, but hoping for the best,” said junior class president Briana Hudson. “I think that

overall everyone did a good job. Everyone eventually quieted down and it went smoothly.“ After lying down for several minutes, Maclin proceeded to speak to the students, promising them more opportunities to speak out. “The school is organizing more activities to let students have a voice—something with Wash U., and attending a racial summit with students from other high schools,” said Maclin. Among others, Maclin thought that the protest went very well. However, some students like junior Tevin Williams found that the demonstration ultimately proved to be ineffective. “I felt it was peaceful, but I don’t feel anyone got anything out of it,” said Williams. “It would have been better if we went outside.” Despite some of the disappointment that students may have had about the protest, any other demonstrations are now strongly discouraged by administration. “Since there are things planned, there should be no other disruptions,” said Maclin. “If there are more protests, today or any day in the future, there will be consequences.” PHOTOS BY PAYTON BASS, HANNAH FULLER AND CHRISTINE POLITTE

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