Wichita East Messenger Vol. 117 issue 6

WICHITA HIGH SCHOOL EAST

DECEMBER 16, 2009 VOLUME 117, ISSUE 6

MESSENGER 2301 E. DOUGLAS AVE., WICHITA, KS 67211 // EHSMESSENGER.COM

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December 16, 2009

WICHITA HIGH SCHOOL EAST

MESSENGER ON THE COVER Imo Udo Udo, jr., works the Angel Tree in Town East Mall for National Honor Society on Nov. 4, 2009. The Angel Tree allows people to donate presents to children and families who otherwise would go without. ASHLEY MATTHEWS,

HEAD PHOTOGRAPHER

STAFF Editors-in-Chief John Camenzind Jeremy Koehler

Webmaster

Jenice Duong

Advertising Manager Savana Cross

Reporters

Ian Bailey Emma Gillespie Lauren Graber Evan Gottstine Aaron Heil Salman Husain Violetta Lopez Ashley Matthews Kierstin McMichael Brae Miner Donald Pepoon Suhayla Sibaai Jessica Thomas Colin White

Head Photographer Ashley Matthews

Videographer Monique Levy

EDITORIAL POLICY “The Messenger” is published in print every two to three weeks, except during vacations, by the Journalism staff of Wichita High School East, 2301 E. Douglas Ave., Wichita, KS 67211. The Journalism department can be reached at (316) 973-7275 or by fax at (316) 973-7224.

NEWS Website provides online access to content

JOHN CAMENZIND, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

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fter 117 years of serving up news to East High in the form of hot and fresh newspapers, this year the Messenger has expanded its reach to the internet.

The primary part of our internet presence is EHSMessenger. com, our newly redesigned web site. Secondary ventures include “Messenger” pages at YouTube.com, Smugmug.com, and Issuu.com.

In a bit of shameless selfpromotion, we would like to make students aware of some of the new services we now provide for students and parents. Check them out online and let us know what you think.

EHSMessenger.com Our web site is the online home of the “Messenger,” providing links to all of our other sites. Webmaster Jenice Duong, sr., has been hard at work making the site as usable, interactive and attractive as possible.

In addition to digitizing all of the content in the print edition of the “Messenger,” the web site features web-exclusive stories available only on the internet. Each issue we have one reporter dedicated to creating multiple stories that will appear only on the internet. It provides an easily accessible archive of all “Messenger” stories that is easier to share with parents and relatives than a physical copy of the paper.

The web site also features a polling and comment system as well as contact information for letters to the editors. We hope to gain more feedback from our readers by making it more convenient online.

YouTube.com/user/ EHSMessenger Like everyone else and their dog, the “Messenger” has

The “Messenger” web site provides students permanent access to content that appears in the print edition as well as web-exclusive stories. The site is maintained by webmaster Jenice Duong, sr. created a YouTube channel. Our videographers film at events such as Mr. Ace, Powderpuff, sporting events, and drama department functions. The channel is run by Jacob Faflick, fr., and Monique Levy, jr.

Speaking of YouTube channels operated by East High students, check out YouTube.com/user/ filmstudiesfunroom, a channel featuring skits made by students in Film Studies class, taught

by Derrick Gronewald, Drama instructor.

WichitaEast.Smugmug.com Our photographers take more great pictures than we can possibly find space for in our print edition.

Our Smugmug site, run by Mariah Miles, sr., provides a convenient answer to this conundrum.

It is a photo hosting web site

“The Messenger” staff will publish news, entertainment, features and sports in an unbiased and professional manner and serve as a public forum for the students of Wichita High School East.

Letters to the Editor may be submitted to room W301 or by fax, and must be signed, legible and concise. The staff reserves the right to edit letters to conform to “Messenger” style. Baseless accusations, insults, libelous statements, obscenity, and letters which call for a disruption of the school day will not be considered for publication.

“The Messenger” is the official student newspaper of Wichita High School East and it is distributed free to students. The opinions expressed in this publication reflect those of the student writers and not the Board of Education or Wichita High School East administration, faculty, or adviser.

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that allows us to post all of the pictures that we think folks might like to see. Photos can be viewed online (albeit with annoying watermarks) or downloaded. The site also allows visitors to purchase print outs of photos they like, with revenues going towards supporting the “Messenger.”

Issuu.com/ WichitaEastMessenger The “Messenger” has also expanded its online presence to Issuu.com. Issuu is a web site that provides us the ability to post exact copies of our print edition for viewing as online PDF documents. Issuu allows viewers to see the beautiful designs that grace the pages of the “Messenger.”

The issues are posted by Haris Vrahliotis, fr. and Kylie Mank, fr.

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December 16, 2009 NEWS Global Women’s Rights Activists collect items for shelter CATE DUNN, GUEST REPORTER Q

uiet but active.

That’s the perfect way to describe Global Women’s Rights Advocates, a group dedicated to celebrating and helping women both abroad and locally. They have done much in the past and are planning more for the future.

“Making women’s lives better is our goal,” club president Taylor Broadfoot, sr., said.

And they are doing just that.

GWRA has been active from their start two years ago, including participating in a project to raise awareness about literacy amongst Afghan women.

More recently, the club helped at the Stepping Out Against Domestic Violence walk at Wichita State University. The walk raised money for the Women’s Crisis Center and educated the attendees about abuse.

“We try to do things that raise awareness about violence against women,” Broadfoot said.

In addition to raising domestic violence awareness, GWRA set

up Dove True Beauty campaigninspired “You Are Beautiful” signs in the girls’ restrooms to promote self-confidence.

“We feel that the aspects and ideas of beauty are formulated by the media and are not actually achievable or factual,” Kaitie Shinsato, jr., said. “So we support being yourself and loving what you see in the mirror, no matter what.”

Sadly, when some women look in the mirror, they see bruises, cuts and scratches; the signs of domestic abuse. Places like the Women’s Crisis Center of Wichita offer hope.

Due to economic hard times and the increased number of women and children seeking shelter, the funds and supply levels are running low.

GWRA decided to help by hosting a supply drive during Ace Time.

Boxes will be set up in junior and senior Ace Times with more than fifteen people. The supplies will be picked up the week of finals.

Students may also drop off items in room E109, the classroom of

Emily Koch, club sponsor.

The Center needs toiletries, canned foods, cereal boxes, baby items, and bed sheets. The group that donates the most not only rewarded by the joy that comes with giving, but also an edible prize.

“We want to get people involved,” Tina Bui, sr. and copresident, said.

“We’re going to give pizza and doughnuts to the Ace Time group with the most donations.”

All of the items collected will

go to the Women’s Crisis Center to help the women and children seeking protection there.

“I’m totally excited (for the drive),” Shinsato said.

Students interested in helping women with GWRA can attend their bimonthly meetings on the first and third Wednesdays of the month in Koch’s room.

“All new members are welcome,” Broadfoot said. “Helping women is cool.”

How to help the WCCW Students can drop off the following items in their Ace Time classroom. The boxes will be collected Jan. 13.

• • • • • • • • • • • • •

Diapers Formula Clothing Blankets Baby food Canned Food Cereal Boxes Shampoo Soap Lotion Toothbrushes and toothpaste Bed sheets Kleenex

KANSAS AUTO SALES Used Car Sales & Repair

Telephone: 612-4545

6813 East Harry Wichita, Ks 67207 www.ehsmessenger.com

NEWS 4Administrators hopeful about new final policy, schedule December 16, 2009

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tarting this semester, many changes regarding finals will be in affect. Not only has the schedule been modified, but the policy will also be changed.

Unlike previous policies, students will have the ability to skip their second semester finals if they have an A or B in the class as well as only five absences each semester.

“Clearly, students want a way out of finals,” Ken Thiessen, principal, said. “Yet many teachers expressed concern that some students would never have to take a final.”

Thiessen said that the new policy will accommodate both views, providing an adequate and workable cross between the two sides.

“I’m not sure, but I think a student suggested the idea,” Thiessen said. “The policy allows for

Finals’ Schedule Wednesday: Finals for 1st hour, followed by a shorten schedule of all other classes. The late start is still in affect.

Thursday: Finals for 2nd, 4th, and 6th hour. The day is a half day.

Friday: Finals for 3rd, 5th, and 7th hour. The day is a half day. students to get out of the end of the year finals with good grades and attendance, but forces them to still participate in at least one final a year. It’ll give them an incentive to work and attend school everyday.”

Though the new policy does offer more motivation for students, some

“The policy is good. If a kid has A’s, then they shouldn’t have to prove that they know the subject again. If they have a bad grade, they have a chance to improve it.”

Makayla Bowen, soph.

teachers are still unsure about the changes.

“I definitely like the old way better,” Douglas Biggs, history instructor, said. “But I am willing to try if administrators believe it will help.”

While some administrators do seem unsure, Thiessen said that, overall, the changes will be for the better.

“I know that at the beginning of the year, there was a lot of positive feedback about the changes,” Thiessen said. “It’ll definitely be a big change, but I think it’ll improve the grades and attendance in our school.”

But the new policy is not the only big change regarding finals.

This year, each testing period will be shortened from two hours to an hour and 15 minutes.

“I think that the new policy is a great opportunity for those who get good grades and always go to school. I definitely think its a fair policy.”

Trang Bui, soph.

LAUREN GRABER, REPORTER

“The new schedule came about after talking with teachers over the past couple of years,” Thiessen said. “Most teachers said their final only took an hour, and rarely did anyone’s take the entire two hours. An hour and 15 minutes just seemed more realistic for our purposes.”

Thiessen is hopeful that these changes will benefit the student’s overall performance.

“The new schedule is more reasonable and will hopefully keep students from sitting idly in the classrooms,” Thiessen said. “However, if there are any real concerns or glitches, we can always make more changes next year.”

SPEAK OUT “The policy is a pretty good idea. It gives kids a prize for working hard in class and always going to their classes.”

Mickalaila Adkins, soph.

NEWS IN BRIEF Winter break

School will not be in session Dec. 19 through Jan. 3.

Prevent illness

Nurse Glenna Haney suggests methods for preventing illness this winter.

Cover mouth and nose with tissue or elbow when coughing and sneezing.

Wash hands with soap and water.

Use alcohol-based hand sanitizer when soap and water are not available. Stay home when sick. Practice healthy habits.

Academic letter

Students can apply for Academic Letters if they have a 3.5 grade point average for three consecutive semesters. Applications are available from Joyce Thomas in the SSC. For questions, call Joan Kornelson at (316) 973-7130.

Angel Tree

Contributing to the holiday season, volunteers participated in the Salvation Army’s annual Angel Tree.

Students checked in gifts in exchange for paper angels and packaged gifts, Nov. 28 through Dec. 15.

Business Professionals of America competed in their Regional Contest, Dec. 10-11. Students competed against other schools from Wichita, Maize, and Newton in a variety of events that are business and computer related. They also completed the student directory, which was delivered the week of Nov. 30.

Interact club

Interacters worked Nov. 27 on stamping dictionaries that were donated to local schools. They are also raising money for the Leukemia Foundation’s Pennies for Patients program.

Alternative Gifts International Fair

National Honor Society hosted the Alternative Gifts International Fair, Dec. 8-10 in the south library during lunch.

National Honor Society provided an opportunity for students and teachers to buy alternative gifts during the holiday. Instead of an iPod for a friend, students had the chance to purchase medical supplies for a family in need in the name of a friend.

Business Professionals of America

Members of Latino Remix made tamales and sold them, Dec. 11, to raise money for costumes and hats.

District band, orchestra, choir

Several students participated in district band, orchestra or choir, Dec. 5 at Wichita State University. These students are eligible to audition for state band, orchestra or choir.

Friends of Performing Arts Friends of Performing Arts held a fundraiser, Dec. 14 at Barnes & Noble at Bradley Fair.

District musical

Several drama students will perform in the district-wide musical, “Footloose.” It will run Feb. 18-20, at Wichita High School Northwest.

Sarah Yun, sr., and Ashley Murphy-Lehman, sr., sell alternative gifts to Preston Richey, sr., and Steven Maack, English instructor, at the Alternative Gifts International Fair, Dec. 8-10. JENICE DUONG, PHOTOGRAPHER

Are you a club president or club sponsor?

If so, e-mail us with news about your organization’s upcoming activities, fund raisers, or special recognition at: news@ehsmessenger.com.

Buns for Books

Buns for Books is a new library program that urges those who check out books from the library to write a minimum five-sentence book review.

Every time a student reads and reviews five books, they will receive a free honey bun from The Landing.

Latino Remix club

Allie Jenkins, sr., pies Ken Thiessen, principal, during the winter pep assembly, Dec. 4. ASHLEY MATTHEWS, HEAD PHOTOGRAPHER

www.ehsmessenger.com

JENICE DUONG, WEBMASTER

EDITORIAL Jostens purchases do not benefit school IAN BAILEY H eckler shirts, class rings, and yearbooks are fantastic ways of supporting East High. But are 2010 sweatpants and jewel-encrusted tassels really a necessity?

Year after year, classes are pressured into unnecessary expenses.

Buying class rings and yearbooks are all well and good, but screenprinted sweatpants? These kind of extra expenses are clearly unnecessary. However, Jostens insists on saturating not just seniors, but all classes with the high school equivalent of souvenirs.

Every year, the Jostens representative tries his hardest to convince the senior classes that graduation is an event worth dumping a ridiculous amount of money into.

According to americancapandgown.com, the price of the basic cap and gown set is $18.95.

The lowest-priced package from Jostens is twice as expensive, with exactly the same features. So why the high cost?

Since sophomore year, the student body has been programmed to expect Jostens to supply all high school paraphernalia. Class rings, yearbooks, and graduation supplies. It is the cleverest marketing strategy yet; the illusion is created that Jostens is the cheapest and most convenient way to buy high school memorabilia.

I wish this illusion were true.

FOR THE STAFF What baffles me is the sales strategy. From Jostens, students can purchase clothing with graduation year imprinted on t-shirts, sweatpants, and hoodies, but no

percentage of the revenue goes to East High. Yet every year, the sales representatives stress the importance of “supporting your school” by buying these items. It is impossible to show school spirit if none of the proceeds go to the school.

Perhaps the Jostens representatives should mention that East makes absolutely no profit off of their merchandise. To truly show school spirit, such items should be purchased directly through the school, not through a third party.

t seems impossible to walk down the hallways of East without seeing a girl proudly displaying her baby bump. Times have no doubt changed since when teenagers who got pregnant had no choice but to drop out of school or move away to visit an aunt for nine months.

Today, teenage pregnancy has become a huge part of our culture.

From “Juno” to MTV’s show “16 and Pregnant” to Bristol Palin, the media has reached the point of almost glorifying teenage pregnancy.

This attention from the media shows. In recent statistics, teenage pregnancies were shown to have increased significantly in recent years in 26 states representing all regions of the US. This attention definitely presents teenage pregnancy in a relatively positive light. Shows like “Secret Life of the American Teenager” and stories of Jamie Lynn Spears seem to glamorize pregnancy at least a little. Though television shows display the hard aspects of life with a baby, they also show popularity and support teenage parents receive from friends and family.

Off the cuff

Paint: Procedural painting of the school has caused chaos and discomfort for students and staff alike. Such procedures should take place during vacations.

Palin: Rumors have circulated that former Alaska governor Sarah Palin is using her best selling book, “Going Rogue: An American Life,” as a platform of popularity for the presidential race in 2012.

Iran: U.S. intelligence has reported that Iran is proliferating its nuclear arms. President Obama must assume a firm stance against the country’s administration and push for tougher efforts to impose sanctions in order to prevent future nuclear conflicts.

Halls: Student behavioral conduct in the hallways is atrocious. Students should attempt to walk at a reasonable pace, keep track of their belongings and make sure trash is not remaining after lunch.

MINHCHAU TRUONG, GUEST CARTOONIST

Glorification of pregnancy inapproprate in school setting

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December 16, 2009

JESSICA THOMAS

REPORTER This may be the way life goes for teen mothers at East. They may keep up with school, work hard, and have time to be social and a good mother at the same time.

There is an alternate route the situation can follow though. Teen mothers can drop out of school.

They can begin the struggle to make enough money to care for their child while still trying to take care of them. The lack of support many teenage mothers receive from the fathers is also another issue that adds to the stress those mothers already feel.

With the setbacks teenage mothers and their children can endure, it seems wrong that our society is glorifying teenage pregnancy so much. Support from teachers and friends sometimes reaches an inappropriate level.

Taking class time to have baby showers is a common occurrence throughout the school, and that takes the support to an inappropriate place. While teachers should do what they can to help students catch up on school work, they should not make pregnant students their absolute priority.

The issue of pregnancy no doubt involves many difficult decisions.

Any choice involves careful thinking and planning, and this position is not an enviable one to be in. Those who choose to keep their children may struggle, and those who choose to give them up for adoption or opt for abortion may later regret the decision.

The aspects of pregnancy that students deal with should not be on display for the whole school.

As with students who wear distracting clothes or students who dye their hair an outrageous color, baby bumps should not create a distraction in class.

Baby showers are not for school, and pregnancy should not be the main focus of any student in school to learn.

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Stem cell: The Obama administration recently approved a ground breaking policy. Obama granted permission for the first human embryonic stem cell experiments by federally funded scientists. The medical possibilities of stem cell development are yet to be explored, and the administration should be commended for supporting the policy.

Finals policy: While some students and teachers are complaining that the revised finals policy is simply a way to avoid extra work second semester, it is important not to overlook the benefits it presents. At least in theory, the policy has been effective in keeping more students in class and providing incentives to attend school.

Fetal pig project: Art Weigand, Biology instructor, has begun the fetal pig lab for his SL Biology classes. The dissection process provides an in depth study of various parts of the fetal pig, such as the digestive system, which closely resemble human functions. Teachers that allow this practice should be commended for this effective, hands-on approach.

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FEATURE

December 16, 2009

Appreciate

Arts

November Artist of

“Graphic design to express my in by manipulating generating imag dering emotion inspiration deriv culture, history, with a dash of L

the

Art is used as a creative outlet in many students’ lives and allows expression in ways that words can not explain.

The Picasso’s of East High are featured here and have explained what their art means to them.

EMMA GILLESPIE, REPORTER VIOLETTA LOPEZ, REPORTER

Graphic design A.

B.

Matt Truong

Photography D.

C.

E.

F.

G.

“Graphic design is a way I love to express myself. To me, it’s like a whole new form of art, because you can create anything from your imagination.

I usually use my own photography and put different photos together to make different elements and wonderful, new pieces of art.

I like the fact that I can take a few works of art and put them together to make a completely different work of art. I don’t usually have a motif for my work; I usually just want to make something visually appealing with my favorite photos I’ve taken.

I just want to create something that everyone will enjoy looking at. Using graphic design to create unique pieces is one of my favorite ways to snare my creativity and art.”

Makenna Caballer, soph.

“Photography is something I really enjoy, especially black and white film, because I have complete control over the elements that go onto an image. I didn’t have any particular theme or motif for the photos (D, E.), I simply wanted to portray something in a captivating and artistic way, just express myself.”

Willam Morita, soph.

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Q.

FEATURE

f the Month

n allows me ndividuality g photos, ges, and renns. My main ves from my , and family, Lady Gaga.”

December 16, 2009

Artists

A. Judson Brown, soph.

B. Jade Querner, jr.

C. Makennea Caballer, soph.

D. Willam Morita, soph.

E. Willam Morita, soph.

F. Amy Lowe, sr.

G. Makenna Caballer, soph H. Alex Moore, soph.

I. Alex Moore, soph.

Drawing H.

J. Jade Querner, jr.

K. Jade Querner, jr.

L. Haley Strizel, jr.

M. Hollie Hermes, soph.

N. MinChau Truong, sr.

O. Haley Strizel, jr.

P. MinChau Truong, sr.

Q. Willam Morita, soph.

Painting

I.

M.

L.

N.

O.

J.

K. “I am inspired by the darker side of life, the things in life everyone is curious to know more about, but too stiff to explore.”

Jade Querner, jr.

“Art allows me to express myself in ways that I can’t out loud.”

Alex Moore, soph.

“My art represents the horrors of the world, watching you, always trying to pull you in, and trapping you in their branches.”

Hollie Hermes, soph.

P.

“I hope through my art I can communicate ideas that many people wouldn’t think about or grasp otherwise.

On a personal level, painting and art allows me to tell the world what I’m thinking or feeling in a much louder way than words ever could.”

Haley Strizel, jr.

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ENTERTAINMENT 8‘Twilight’ saga continues with ‘New Moon’ December 16, 2009

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eam Edward or Team Jacob?

Whatever team a teenage girl might be on, she will receive her guy frenzy in “New Moon,” the next installment in the Twilight Saga, based on the second book of Stephenie Meyer’s New York Times best selling series.

In the first movie, Bella Swan (Kristen Stewart) meets Edward Cullen (Robert Pattinson) and the two fall madly in love. The romance is forbidden because Bella is human while Edward is a vampire, thirsting for her blood. However, he is no ordinary vampire as he and his family only drink animal blood.

Their love deepens throughout the movie causing Edward to be quite protective of Bella. Edward’s protectiveness is later needed when he is required to protect Bella from a group of vampires who drink human blood.

“New Moon” finds Bella (Kristen Stewart) alone after Edward (Robert Pattinson) leaves her for her own good. Heart stricken she finds comfort in her best friend Jacob Black (Taylor Lautner).

When hanging out with Jacob, Bella discovers that an image of Edward appears when she puts her life in danger. The desire she feels to be with Edward bring greater risks to her life.

It turns out that Jacob has been keeping secrets of his own - he is a werewolf. Bella then learns that the purpose of werewolves is

ASHLEY MATTHEWS, REPORTER

“Twilight” vs.

“New Moon” Opening night box office “Twilight”: $69.9 million “New Moon”: $72.7 million Movie preference: “Twilight”: 18 students “New Moon”: 72 students Neither: 10 students

Zachary Bean, soph., Jane Skaggs, soph., and Rebecca Olson, soph., wait in line with hundreds of teenagers for the premier of “New Moon.” ASHLEY MATTHEWS PHOTOGRAPHER to kill vampires. To add to Bella’s problems, Jacob has romantic feelings for Bella and will do anything to protect her.

With Jacob being a werewolf comes the advantage, for most females, of many shirtless scenes with Lautner. In one year, Lautner gained 30 pounds of muscle for this movie, and it shows from the last installment.

“Twilight” was a low budget movie with poor special effects, but soared in capturing the relationship between Bella and Edward. Many critics agree that “New Moon” was an improvement in all areas of movie making, partly because of the

money earned from “Twilight.” The audience could feel Bella’s pain, the tension between Bella and Jacob, and that the werewolves were real.

Running just over two hours, “New Moon” is directed by Chris Weitz and rated PG-13 for some violence and action. Filled with more action, suspense, and passion that made “Twilight” a worldwide phenomenon, “New Moon” is likely to become the number one movie of 2009.

With “New Moon” ending in great suspense, true fans of this series can not wait for “Eclipse” to premier during the summer of 2010.

Of 100 students polled, nearly three- quarters “New Moon.”

SPEAK OUT “I think ‘New Moon’ was a bigger hit than ‘Twilight’ because a lot more happens; Jacob turns into a werewolf, Edward leaves, and Bella almost dies.” Kimiko Lyon, fr. “‘New Moon’ followed pretty well to the book. There were some scenes added and some scenes skipped like all movies.” Casey Johnson, soph. “‘New Moon’ is a bigger hit because it is more high def. Colors are more vivid, they are not bland, there is more action, and Jacob takes off his shirt, causing the theater to go ‘aww.’” Austin Fecher, fr.

“I thought ‘New Moon’ was better in the way of action, but the acting seemed mediocre. The movie is more about the story than anything.

She second movie was better overall.” Michelle Smith, sr.

Jacob saves Bella from one of her life-risking bergades.

PHOTO FROM MOVIEWEB.COM.

“I thought ‘New Moon’ followed pretty well with the book, considering it was a remake of the book.

The movie probably could not have followed the book more if they wanted the movie to appeal to everybody.” Kayla Steelsmith, soph.

“I thought ‘New Moon’ followed the book well. The movie followed better than ‘Twilight.’” Kirsten Allsup, sr. “‘New Moon’ was a bigger hit than ‘Twillight’ because everybody had just seen ‘Twilight’ and they liked it. People also started to read the books.’ Erika Ekengren, jr.

Edward wishes Bella a happy 18th birthday, a day she dreads because she is now older than Edward. PHOTO FROM MOVIEWEB.COM. “New Moon” features a number of werewolves who hunt vampires. PHOTO FROM ROTTENTOMATOES.COM

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ENTERTAINMENT

Gaga’s album, ‘Fame Monster’ fails to deliver quality T

he expression “quality over quantity” is one that, unfortunately, cannot be used to describe Lady Gaga’s new album, “The Fame Monster,” which hit stores Nov. 23. The 23 year old singer and songwriter certainly had her work cut out for her after her original album, “The Fame” (released on Oct. 28, 2008). The album sold over 4 million copies worldwide in just one year and hit platinum in the United States. Sadly, Lady Gaga failed to release an even better album.

“The Fame Monster” is a re-release of Lady Gaga’s original album “The Fame.” The deluxe version of the album features the entire track list of “The Fame” plus eight new songs, while the initial version includes only the eight new tracks.

What Lady Gaga’s album lacks in quantity, she does not make up for in quality.

The new songs “Alejandro” and “Teeth” lack any real depth and are so repetitive that they quickly get boring. The only thing memorable about “Alejandro” is the chorus, and not that much from “Teeth” is definitive at all. In fact, “Teeth” combines so many awkward lyrics that it is difficult to tell what the chorus says. The actual music in these two songs is dull and simple, and packs no surprises at all. They could be easily unnoticed and ignored.

The fifth track on the album, “Dance in the Dark,” is cool and catchy at first, but slowly falls apart as the song goes on. The delay (echo) effect leading up to the chorus does more harm than good as it leaves unnecessarily long, boring gaps in the track that are oddly out of place. The chorus of this song isn’t bad, but it is not great either; there’s nothing special or memorable about it.

“Speechless” is another odd song.

The lyrics seem messy and clumsily tossed together, with no consistent beat to them at all. The song also has a certain country feel able it that doesn’t work well for Gaga’s style. It seems as if this track was incredibly rushed.

Amidst all of the somewhat subpar content in Lady Gaga’s new album, there are a few tracks that she managed to get right. The opening single, “Bad Romance” is fun, catchy, upbeat, and easy to dance to. The regular verses work well together with lyrics that actually rhyme.

“Telephone” is another great song. Although it’s about an incredibly pointless topic (telephones that won’t stop ringing), the entire song is well done, from the mysterious and somewhat dark verses to the exciting and upbeat chorus. The addition of Beyonce makes the song even better.

And don not forget the incredibly

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December 16, 2009

MATTHEW CLOUGH, NEWSPAPER 1

underrated “So Happy I Could Die,” which contains one of the best and catchiest choruses that I’ve heard in a long time. The lyrics throughout the song could have been better, but the amazing chorus more than makes up for them.

Although she was able to pull out a few great songs, Lady Gaga

failed to release a powerful stunning album to follow up her first, “The Fame.” “The Fame Monster” should have included more new tracks and left out the original album. Lady Gaga would have done much better without an almost pointless re-release.

Lady Gaga’s new CD, “The Fame Monster,” was released Nov. 23. PHOTO COURTESY MCT CAMPUS

New version of old favorite, ‘Scrubs,’ disappoints compared to original

“S

crubs” returned to television last Tuesday with two new episodes. The show is beginning its ninth season on NBC with an entirely new location, main character, and plot. ‘’Scrubs” is a medical comedy following the lives of several employees of Sacred Heart Hospital. The series is narrated by Dr. John “JD” Dorian (Zach Braff), a daydream-

ANDREW KOEHLER, NEWSPAPER 1

ing medical doctor that seems to care more about his patients than any other doctor in the hospital.

“Scrubs” follows his career in medicine and his personal life.

The cast of the show includes Turk (Donald Faison),JD’s best friend, and his love interest, Elliot (Sarah Chalke). Also featured is JD’s sarcastic mentor incapable of showing his feelings, Dr. Cox (John

New characters appear in the new season of the popular medical comedy, “Scrubs.”

PHOTO FROM ABC.COM

C. McGinley).

The series ended on a good note, despite being cancelled in the middle of the seventh season because of the writers’ strike. The departure of the season did not last, however, as the show moved on to ABC to complete its eight year run with an eighth and final season, which included Courtney Cox for three episodes. The season ended with a two part episode titled ”My Finale” in May of this year.

In an act of indecision that would make Brett Favre proud, Scrubs returned to ABC for a new season. Last Tuesday was the premiere night for the two first episodes of season nine, with a new location, new characters, and many more changes.

The new season begins one year from the end of season eight.

Sacred Heart has been torn down is rebuilt on a medical campus.

McGinley and Faison will return for the rest of the season as teachers at the medical school, but Braff

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and Chalke will return only for the first six episodes.

Many old cast members are leaving, and new characters are needed. These absences are filled by a group of med students including the new narrator and main character, Lucy (Kerry Bishe), who also daydreams onscreen.

Despite so many changes in the show, the comedy is still alike as the previous seasons, maybe too much alike. The jokes have been reused and have became old very quick. Even some of the most memorable parts of past seasons, such as the duet between JD and Turk titled ”Gay Love” were used in the new season, which took away from the original humor.

JD works alongside Turk and Dr. Cox as a teacher at the medical school for a few episodes, but should have never returned. His presence on the show creates a distraction because he will not be there for the entire season.

SPORTS 10 Student finds inspiration from YouTube, founds new club December 16, 2009

N

ew forms of activity have clambered from France to YouTube to East High with the creation of the Parkour and Free Running Club.

“Parkour involves using your environment to go from point A to point B,” Zachary Ledbetter, sr., said. “(You) use your environment to go forward by going over, under, and through things.”

Ledbetter has participated in parkour for the last two and a half years. He became involved with the sport one summer after watching videos on YouTube and researching it online. “(The philosophy of parkour) is to train your mind to make use of your environment,” Ledbetter said.

Free running is similar to parkour to the untrained eye, though somewhat different.

PARKOUR

Parkour is a sport where the athlete gets from one area to another using obstacles in the way.

Parkour was invented in France by David Belle. Belle was inspired by his father, a Paris fireman. He, along with an organization called the Yamakazi, turned it into a sport.

“David took it to the streets and made it kind of a philosophy like martial arts,” Zachary Ledbetter, sr., said.

The Yamakazi used parkour to either help people or escape from a dangerous situation.

AARON HEIL, REPORTER

“Free running is a sort of cousin of parkour,” Ledbetter said. “You use your environment in a way that’s unique to you. Doing flips, twists, and turns in one place.”

Free running depends less on getting to a certain area, and more on the aesthetic value of the sport.

Since becoming involved in the sports, Ledbetter was inspired to found a club at East. Last year he asked John Perkins, English instructor, to sponsor his club.

“Zach wanted to do it last year,” Perkins said. “I said ‘no’ because it was my first year.”

This year, however, Perkins agreed, and since then Ledbetter has begun his club. Ledbetter has gotten students to come to the meetings, yet few have practiced with him. The one student who showed up came willing to be taught.

“It sounded like fun,” Jesse Parker, jr., said. “Zach talked to me about it, it sounded like a good

FREE RUNNING

Free running was likewise started in France but focuses more on how the athlete’s moves look, as opposed to actually going somewhere. It finds its roots in parkour, being heavily influenced by Yamakazi member Sebastien Foucan, a French actor.

“Free running is using your surroundings to do creative things,” Jesse Parker, jr., said.

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Zachary Ledbetter, sr., performs a stunt while practicing at Air Capital Gymnastics.

ASHLEY MATTHEWS, PHOTOGRAPHER idea, and I thought I could learn a lot.”

Ledbetter and Parker have been practicing at Air Capital Gymnastics on Spruce Street. “(It’s) a place that’s open to the public so you can practice different things without worrying about

injuring yourself,” Parker said.

The club has yet to plan any events involving their sports and are simply practicing.

“I was just bored,” Ledbetter said. “I went out and tried it and it was easy for me.”

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December 16, 2009 SPORTS Ultimate club prepares for second year at Nationals

BRAE MINER, REPORTER

O

nly a sporting event entirely exceptional in its complete concern for sportsmanship and utter athletic elegance deserves to be defined as “Ultimate”.

Though it started as a recreational club five years ago, the Ultimate team is preparing to go to Nationals for the second time in a row next spring.

“I like Ultimate because it’s non-mainstream and more about spirit than winning,” co-captain Rachel Cross, jr., said. “It comes down to the individual and attracts the kind of people who don’t need competition in order to perform well.”

To qualify for Nationals, the team had to beat Junction City, the other of two Kansas high schools with an active Ultimate team.

The club then submitted a bid to the Ultimate Players Assocation requesting permission to compete at the collegiate level in the national tournament.

Ultimate combines the endurance of soccer with the hand-eye coordination required in football. Upon catching the disc, players must stop and pass to any of six teammates within 10 seconds before the disc is given to the opposing team.

The goal is to receive a pass in the opponent’s end zone. Unlike other sports however, the game is officiated by a set of rules called the Spirit of the Game instead of a referee.

“The sport is very informal and it’s important it stays that way,” Steve Maack, coach and sponsor, said. “There’s nothing like Ultimate because the Spirit of the Game changes the atmosphere. The rules are self-interpreted, allowing the players to take control.”

Jesse Parker, jr., throws the disc while being marked by an opponent as teammate Michael Gurley, ‘09, heads up field.

PHOTO COURTESY OF RACHEL CROSS The team sells pizza for $1.50 a slice during lunch in order to raise money that will be used for attending the national tournament held in Burlington, Wash. next May. The club entered the same competition last year as the Beast Aces because they are sponsored as a school club instead of an athletic team.

“It would be easier to organize and more people would know about it if we were considered a school sport, but I’m glad we aren’t because we have a lot more freedom to practice and play the way we

want,” co-captain Jesse Parker, jr., said.

The team, composed of 20 or so members, prepares by practicing on the weekends.

“We have a good bond and a lot of fun,” Cross said. “I recommend trying it because it’s completely different.”

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Rachel Cross, jr., passes the disc at the 2009 National Tournament in Blaine, Minn. PHOTO COURTESY OF RACHEL CROSS

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14

December 16, 2009

FEATURE

Extraordinary Aces

Behind the scenes Aces support one another in activities EVAN GOTTSTINE, REPORTER S tudents around East are seen helping in numerous ways, from counseling, helping in drama productions, even helping administrators deal punishments.

In their own ways, these students help support East, and learn valuable lessons in the process.

Carrington Bruce, soph., is a member of Youth Court,which helps deal with the distribution of punishment, except it provides an educational experience for students interested in law.

“If you get written up by your teacher, he/she sends it to your administrator,” Bruce said, “He/she has the choice if they want Youth

Court to deal with it. If it’s serious, we have a full court, and if it’s kind of minor, we’ll just have one or two people deal with it.”

Carrington was not always aware of Youth Court.

“Ms. Sherri Elliott had brought me to (Youth Court),” Bruce said, “I took the opportunity to join. I’m glad I joined; I really like it.”

Youth Court deals with the close, personal connection of dealing with and helping other students.

“It’s really a win loss thing,” Bruce said, “It’s really getting to the bottom of things so we can make it better.”

Carrington Bruce, soph., reads files in a Youth Court hearing. JEREMY KOEHLER, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

PEER MEDIATION

Students who need counseling do not always have to go to a school counselor, they have the option to see a Peer Mediator.

Asia Cannon, jr., is one of these volunteers. However, like other students, Cannon did not originally set out to join Peer Mediation.

“Ms. (Kim) Voth brought me into Choose Respect,” Cannon said, “The majority of members were Peer Mediators, so I decided to join.”

Cannon has managed to enjoy

her time with the program.

“The best part of Peer Mediation is what I call ‘Oprah Moments,” Cannon said, “I get to see (students) real emotions and its usually anger or crying.”

While this may seem dramatic, Cannon recommends it highly.

“I’d recommend people to become a peer mediator, it’s very rewarding,” Cannon said, “On the other hand, I’d recommend it to people who need to solve problems.”

In almost every drama production, audiences are captivated by the effort of the actors. However, the unsung heros behind every drama production are the techies. Kim Truong, sr., could be called the leader of these people.

“I went to a tech day in sophomore year for CAS hours,” Truong said, “I turned out loving it. Now I do it every show that I

can get my hands on.”

Truong also supports Music Theatre of Wichita. In order for the “techies” to earn the respect they deserve, a strong emphasis has to be put on the extremely important role they play in every drama production. They build the set, help with lights, and support the actors.

“We run the show.”

Chances are you have seen the signs around school. Chances are, you know a tutor or someone who is being tutored. Josemanuel Magdaleno, jr., is one of these helping hands.

“I started this year because other people need tutors for Spanish,” Magdaleno said, “That is my subject, so I decided to volunteer.”

While this may take up some of his spare time, Magdaleno enjoys his time tutoring.

“It’s a nice experience,” Magdaleno said, “If you need help, tutoring is where you need to go.

Other students have been through the subject, so they know where they suffered and can help you get through it.”

For Magdaleno, tutoring comes down to wanting to help other students so they do not have to struggle.

“You’re doing something for somebody else, so it feels great,” Magdaleno said.

TECHIE

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TUTORING