The Canine Chronicle MBMS December 2014

chr[ ]nicle mount baker middle school, auburn, washington december 2014 volume V, issue 2

[t h e canine ]

Dear Bulldogs, As we move into the winter months and near the end of the semester, the excitement for the holidays begins to

sizzle in the air.

By now, we have gotten back into the grind of middle school and are itching for some time off. Although the rush

of the excitement in December may overcome our thoughts, the world and our school still changes around us. Not

everything is a snow covered wonderland that we drift off to in our heads. We are still in school, learning and

progressing, as much as we hate to believe.

Here at The Canine Chronicle, although we are just as excited for the holidays as you are, we still have to keep

our eyes open because news is still occurring.

This edition of The Canine Chronicle will still be full of holiday cheer, but it’s not going to be over-the-top ‘winter

wonderland’ or the typical ‘candy cane everything.’ Sure, we might throw in a few holiday articles here and there.

but don’t expect this to be your survival guide to the holiday season.

We have learned from our past mistakes and hope to take this edition to great heights, even if we only have a

limited time to get your stories out there, because here at The Canine Chronicle we value your opinions.

You are the voices that inspire us to write and tell the story of the over 950 people at our school. In the frigidly

cold days of the winter season, people sometimes forget about what they set out to do at the beginning of the

year.

We haven’t lost sight of that goal we set in November. We embrace the struggle to achieve greatness, and we

will try to get there. If you believe

in us, we will believe in you.

Make it a great month, Bulldogs!

Sincerely,

Skylar Erickson

Kira Kopcho

Dylan Grenz

Symone Bolden

Shewit Alemayehu

Editors Shewit Alemayehu

Symone Bolden

Skylar Erickson

Dylan Grenz

Kira Kopcho

Reporters Hunter Allemand

Tyler Braun

Noah Elwell

Trinity Forristall

Francisco Gonzalez-Ramirez

Trevor Little

Brianna Lloyd

Reis MacNeill

Reporters

Sharon Manivanh

Arturo Martinez-Reyes

Odom Meas

Jennifer Ortiz

Connor Pennycook

Yuliana Romo-Perez

Zech Walker

Lanae Wohlmacher

Technical Support Jay Kemp

Adviser

Peter Warring

mission: The MBMS Journalism 8 class produced this limited-voice

newspaper with intent to ethically report events accurately, without bias. As a public forum for students, all decisions made on content are made under the guidance of the adviser, with intent to uphold students’ First Amendment rights. The opinions presented in articles are provided to represent the views and perspectives of students and individuals in our diverse student popu-lation, not necessarily the whole of the adviser, faculty, and administra-tors. Any material that would cause a disruption to the educational process like libel, invasion of privacy, or copyright infringement will not be pub-lished. The Canine Chronicle is produced using Microsoft Publisher. Photographs not taken by students have been utilized through a Creative Commons and Microsoft license. School portraits are licensed though Dorian Photogra-phy.

inside this issue: Ferguson Verdict 4

New Security Cameras 5

How to Spend Winter Break 6

Holiday Meals 7

Season of Giving 8

Club Bulletin Board 9

Arts & Entertainment 10

SPOTLIGHT: Top Holiday Gifts 12

What Grinds My Gears 14

#MBMSMO Photo Essay 15

Lev Wins State Title 16

MBMS Sports 17

TCC Culture Poll 20

Locker Lottery 21

Guess Who 23

MT. BAKER MIDDLE SCHOOL

620 37TH STREET SE

AUBURN, WASHINGTON 98002

[ 2 * table of contents * volume V, issue 2 ]

FRONT COVER PHOTO: With the holidays in full swing, many

students are wondering if they are on the naughty or nice list. Our new security cameras at MBMS let administrators play

the role of Santa and update their “list.” PHOTO ILLUSTRATION

BY K. KOPCHO

BACK COVER PHOTO: There are many fun and exciting things

that students do during holiday season. Students and staff members expressed their favorite part of the holiday season.

PHOTOS BY N. ELWELL & H. ALLEMAND

[ december 2014 * news & features * 3 ]

Skylar Erickson

Do you know someone that wants to steal a pen-guin from the San Diego Zoo? Scott Backovich does.

Backovich is a motivational speaker from the sunny state of California, who travels all around the

country helping teens in life. Even though we may

never know why he has a strange obsession with these small black and white birds, we know one

thing—he wants to help us succeed. After the assembly on Nov. 25, several students

received the opportunity to attend a student leader-

ship conference alongside many other student peers. “We learned ways to make our school more united

and make it a place where everyone feels safe”,

eighth grader Lexi Allen said. “We never really talked about [leadership], and students taking action.”

During the seminar students learned an abundance of things. Many people these days only do what they

think is fun for them and don’t really think of other

people likes and dislikes, and a lot people think that they are doing something good but really, but in

someone else’s eyes it could be the exact opposite. “Don’t change your life, change someone else’s,”

Backovich said.

These words really got imbedded in students’ minds, because they are so true and real. You don’t

need to change your life, so you can help other peo-ple. Sure, you might need to work out a few compli-

cations, but you don’t need to change YOUR life to

help others. Even if you help someone pick up their books that

fell on the ground, that could impact someone in

massive ways. You aren’t changing your life to help someone else; you may be changing theirs. Not say-

ing that you have to go around in tights with a cape on to help people in need at our school, but you can

just do simple deeds.

It was also very interesting watching people that didn’t know one another, actually interacting with

each other. It’s hard putting yourself out there in front of all of your peers.

When Backovich told them to ask the person to their left to be their “leadership soul mate,” many of

them just stood there not knowing if they should put

themselves out there and ask their neighbor. But, once he said that you might look like the odd one out,

because you weren’t the one being weird, everything changed. People started acting like ducks and pre-

tending that they were grasshoppers by jumping

around everywhere. “My goal is to pick five things he shared with lead-

ership and start implementing these ideas,” eighth grade social studies teacher Mrs. Carnahan said. “I

think the students really enjoyed his presentation

and were very motivating for them.” Since we want Mount Baker to be a safe environ-

ment, make sure to do everything you can to make that possible. Make it a great year Baker.

Students discuss issues about school activities, and how that can find solutions. By taking action, you can make our school a better

place for everyone. PHOTO BY S. ALEMAYEHU

“Be a catalyst” was the message motivational speaker Scott Backovich

gave to MBMS students on Nov. 25 .COURTESY OF THELEONID.COM VIA CERATIVE COMMONS LICENSE

We’re being watched. Not all the time, but We’re being watched. Not all the time, but

since the installation of the security cameras, since the installation of the security cameras,

there is documented evidence of what we’re there is documented evidence of what we’re

doing in the hallways. The security cameras doing in the hallways. The security cameras

were originally installed for what their name were originally installed for what their name

statesstates——security. But these security cameras security. But these security cameras

could possibly have other benefits. These se-could possibly have other benefits. These se-

curity cameras might just provide enough curity cameras might just provide enough

evidence to stop a kid from fighting or even a evidence to stop a kid from fighting or even a

threat to the school.threat to the school.

By now most people have heard about the By now most people have heard about the

tragic school shootings that have happened tragic school shootings that have happened

close to home. close to home.

The last thing we’d want would be a tragedy, The last thing we’d want would be a tragedy,

like the one that happened at Marysvillelike the one that happened at Marysville

--Pilchuck or the malicious prank at Pilchuck or the malicious prank at

AuburnAuburn--Riverside at our own Riverside at our own

school. school.

With the security cameras the staff has With the security cameras the staff has

‘eyes in the sky.’ Now the cameras can’t pos-‘eyes in the sky.’ Now the cameras can’t pos-

sibly be monitored all the time, but at least sibly be monitored all the time, but at least

they might help in preventing something terri-they might help in preventing something terri-

ble from happening. ble from happening.

But are people just “playing nice” because But are people just “playing nice” because

someone is watching? someone is watching?

The security cameras might have a The security cameras might have a

bigger effect than we first realized.bigger effect than we first realized.

“[The security cameras] “[The security cameras]

have made it, so I myself have made it, so I myself

haven’t acted differ-haven’t acted differ-

ently,” eighth grader Matthew Smeltzer input ently,” eighth grader Matthew Smeltzer input

his opinion on the cameras. “People who might his opinion on the cameras. “People who might

have misbehaved in the past now might act have misbehaved in the past now might act

different.” different.”

Kira KopchoKira Kopcho

[ 4 * news & features * volume V, issue 2 ]

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[ december 2014 * news & features * 5 ]

Tragedies happen. Sometimes justice can’t be properly Tragedies happen. Sometimes justice can’t be properly

served for those who commit such a deed. served for those who commit such a deed.

But with the installation of the cameras, even if we can’t But with the installation of the cameras, even if we can’t

catch them in the act, it might be easier to find the culprit. catch them in the act, it might be easier to find the culprit.

Now at our school, we’ve been fortunate enough not to Now at our school, we’ve been fortunate enough not to

receive any serious threats, but we can’t say the same receive any serious threats, but we can’t say the same

for high school. If we see a drop in threats here, would for high school. If we see a drop in threats here, would

it work in high school too?it work in high school too?

“[The security cameras] definitely work at high “[The security cameras] definitely work at high

school. In fact, the new Auburn High School has cam-school. In fact, the new Auburn High School has cam-

eras built in,” eighth grade science and robotics eras built in,” eighth grade science and robotics

teacher Mr. Cowan reported about the cameras. teacher Mr. Cowan reported about the cameras.

“I’m not sure how often they are monitored, but it “I’m not sure how often they are monitored, but it

would provide us evidence to some extent.”would provide us evidence to some extent.”

From this point on, the security cameras look like From this point on, the security cameras look like

a blessing. They do help out a lot and are valuable a blessing. They do help out a lot and are valuable

in many cases. in many cases.

There are always two sides to a story though. There are always two sides to a story though.

The cameras can cause some controversy. No one The cameras can cause some controversy. No one

likes being filmed. When somebody has your face likes being filmed. When somebody has your face

forever documented on a memory card, it’s a bit forever documented on a memory card, it’s a bit

unnerving. The security cameras could possibly unnerving. The security cameras could possibly

violate our privacy.violate our privacy.

“I think [having the security cameras] is fair,” “I think [having the security cameras] is fair,”

eighth grader My Do remarked about the cameras. eighth grader My Do remarked about the cameras.

“If someone does something on camera and they “If someone does something on camera and they

get caught it’s their own fault.” get caught it’s their own fault.”

It’s an odd coincidence that in recent times, the Au-It’s an odd coincidence that in recent times, the Au-

burn community has stopped using the traffic cam-burn community has stopped using the traffic cam-

eras for speeding through red lights. eras for speeding through red lights.

According to the council, the traffic cameras didn’t According to the council, the traffic cameras didn’t

prevent accidents from happening. prevent accidents from happening.

Do the cameras pose a big enough threat to get people Do the cameras pose a big enough threat to get people

to think before they act?to think before they act?

”Honestly I think people who had serious intent of doing ”Honestly I think people who had serious intent of doing

something would do it regardless of the cameras or not,” something would do it regardless of the cameras or not,”

Smeltzer estimated about the security cameras’ effect. “But Smeltzer estimated about the security cameras’ effect. “But

those people who are on the fence, the risk of that would be those people who are on the fence, the risk of that would be

lower.”lower.”

Like them or loathe them, the cameras are here to stay.Like them or loathe them, the cameras are here to stay.

Even if the cameras violate our privacy, they are for the Even if the cameras violate our privacy, they are for the

greater good. greater good.

A seventh grader, Anna Morisawa had some wise words on A seventh grader, Anna Morisawa had some wise words on

the situation, the situation,

“I think [the security cameras] make MBMS a more secure “I think [the security cameras] make MBMS a more secure

place. What if the threat on the note was carried out last place. What if the threat on the note was carried out last

year? I think it’s in the school’s best interest to protect its year? I think it’s in the school’s best interest to protect its

students and staff,” she said. students and staff,” she said.

Remember to smile, you’re on camera!Remember to smile, you’re on camera!

The security cameras in the hallways don’t always have an effect on The security cameras in the hallways don’t always have an effect on

people but for some people it has changed their daily routine. The new people but for some people it has changed their daily routine. The new

cameras work in preventing kids from misbehaving, because in order cameras work in preventing kids from misbehaving, because in order

to not be caught it is like mission impossible. to not be caught it is like mission impossible.

PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY K. KOPCHOPHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY K. KOPCHO

Winter break can be boring if you have nothing to do.

Most kids say they will just sleep in, but there are more

exciting and fun activities to do over your time off from

school. It’s always good to try something new or thrill-

ing.

In the mitts of boredom, you could always go sit

around with your family or hang out with a friend. You

could play a simple board game or watch a movie to-

gether just to pass the time.

“Usually I just hang out with my family. This winter

break I’m suppose to hangout with my friend who lives

in Maple Valley,” eighth grader Novilee Schwope ex-

plained

“I’m going to go shopping a lot [at] the mall with my

sister,” Iliana Onishencko said.

That is another great way to spend your time; I mean

who doesn’t like getting new clothes? You could always

buy an ugly Christmas sweater to stay in the holiday

spirit or buy your relatives a present. The holidays are

a time to treat yourself and others around you.

Another thing to do is try something new like going on

an adventure around the neighborhood.

Create a trip with your family to go to the new restau-

rant in town. This gives you a chance to try new foods

and recipes.

Make a gingerbread house and then eat it Christmas

day…you could always make your own gingerbread

house ingredients at home so you can be even more

creative. Also get some gumdrops and other sweets to

decorate your house. Then the best part is eating the

entire thing right after opening presents.

Even more treats you could make for the holidays is

pie. Look up some recipes online or use a family recipe

to create your delicious holiday dessert.

Try making a new flavor of pie such as chocolate,

pecan, lemon, or there is even a pie called ‘finger’!

Before you get too grossed out, we will reassure you

that this pie is not actually made from fingers. It is only

called a ‘finger’ pie because in the old days, bakers

would stir this pie with their fingers to keep the crust

from breaking.

You can also make some decorations for your house

for the holidays.

Some ideas for these decorations is hanging stock-

ings for Santa and making popcorn string. Popcorn

string is made by popping popcorn and putting a needle

through the popcorn using string to make a strand.

Make sure the popcorn is unflavored or your house may

smell like cheap butter for awhile.

Since the New Year is coming, make a New Year’s

resolution.

Write down your goals on a piece of paper to remind

yourself throughout the year of 2015. Add some

changes you want to make so that your coming year

will be successful and more enjoyable.

We know most of you have already planned this and

have been looking forward to it the most….SLEEP! Most

kids love sleep the most about winter break, it gives

them a chance to cuddle up in a blanket or two and just

relax. If you have a furry friend then you can cuddle up

with them too.

“I’m going to sleep and sleep and sleep then sleep,”

Bruce Ram stated.

How to spend your Trinity Forristall & Lanae Wohlmacher

“[I like] sleeping in.”

LOGAN KANSANBACK eighth grade

“[I would] go on the Xbox.”

JONATHAN GRAMPS seventh grade

“I usually sleep in or get extra

things done, but I usually like to

sleep in the extra hour.”

JONATHAN CANTELLAY sixth grade

“[I would be] in bed sleeping or

snuggling with my kids.”

MRS. WALKER language arts teacher

[ 6 * spotlight * volume V, issue 2 ]

How do you spend late start or snow closures? Trevor Little

Over winter break make sure to use your chance of playing in

the snow with some friends. COURTESY OF BLOG.HEASDUPDAD.COM VIA CREATIVE COMMONS LICENCE

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[ december 2014 * spotlight * 7 ]

An average person consumes about 6000 calories over

Christmas Day, and about 28 billion pounds of edible food is

wasted.

MBMS’s diversity of our school makes holiday meals unique.

Many people in our school enjoy a nice warm meal on the

holidays. Many people have different opinions on their favor-

ite holiday meal.

“I like bread rolls because they’re really good. [Also] tofu

turkey, it is a substitution for turkey, [because] I’m a vege-

tarian,” seventh grader Maya Martin said.

Some families enjoy traditional and nutritional meals. Every

year people wait for a special meal that is only made for the holidays.

“I’m looking forward to my Grandma’s green marshmallow, pineapple, and cream

cheese Jell-O,” eighth grade math teacher Mr. Carter said.

Some families just stick with the good old traditional ham for the holidays. Some

families go out of town and enjoy a meal some place other then home. “[I enjoy] ham, and I spend my holidays in Portland, Oregon,” sixth grader Ashley

Winters said.

All families are different. They spend their holidays different, eating different holi-

day meals and going places different. Being a diverse school makes our holidays all

different.

Some enjoy ham, while others enjoy a nice thick slice of turkey.

Some are vegetarian, some are gluten free, or dairy free,

which makes every bodies holidays meals abnormal.

“My step mom makes me a dairy free Almond Roca, be-

cause it is really good. We eat it after dinner,” eighth grader,

Arianna Casebeer said.

Most people enjoy the holidays with loved ones. Some

spend it with close families, immediate family, while others

spend it with friends. But, no matter what holidays is a spe-

cial time and should be spent together.

“Close family, “eighth grader Arianna Casebeer said about

who she spends the holidays with.

Americans eat a lot over the holidays, but there is a lot of ways to stay healthy and

not consume so much junk and calories.

According to KidSpot.com, people should enjoy any meat they’d like, but just remove

the skin and make sure it is healthy lean meat. They also recommended a variety of

vegetables, but avoid saturating them in butter and salt. People can enjoy a nice

healthy salad for a starter meal and enjoy it with a fat-free dressing.

If you get hungry, just snack on some crackers. If you want to have some dessert

you may just remember to have only one.

Holidays are important. Spend them with loved ones and enjoy some wonderful

meals.

This feast is a wonderful Christmas dinner waiting to be consumed. This dinner is filled with carbs and calories but if you remove the skin off of the meat, it becomes healthier and you

won’t gain as much weight. COURTESY OF THEWIZZER.BLOGSPOT.COM VIA CREATIVE COMMONS LICENSE

Brianna LloydBrianna LloydBrianna Lloyd

The average human

consumes about

17,500 calories over

the holidays. —Kevin Merrikin “Avoiding the Dreaded Holiday 5 Pounds ”

Over the holidays kids receive many gifts from their

parents, but have you thought of the kids that don’t get

anything?

Many parents don’t have the pleasure of spending

money on toys for their kids, along with some kids that

don’t have parents to receive gifts from.

There is a hand full of students and staff at Mt. Baker

that donate gifts to these children for Christmas. Also,

there are a few stores in our area that raise money to

buy children toys for the holidays.

Students and their families donate at organizations

like the Giving Tree, that’s located mostly in city halls in

this area, and in other charities that happen at local

stores. These organizations let people donate money

and gifts to kids and families in need.

The Giving Tree happens every year and is held in

most city halls. At the Giving Tree a Christmas trees

are set up with paper ornaments that are for a child

that is in need of a gift. You simply pick off an orna-

ments and read the information. It provides the child’s

name and what they want for Christmas. Then people

go to purchase the gift and take it to the city hall so

they can deliver the gift.

"Me and my mom always pick some of the giving tree

tags and give them gifts," eighth grader Sunshine

McTernen stated.

Another way to help families is to donate at any store

that provides a charity that helps kids receive gifts. At

some stores, such as grocery stores or toy stores,

they have a bin or table that you can donate money or

gifts. From there they transport gifts to families in

need.

During the holidays, it is a great time to aid to fami-

lies that don’t have the money. Kids will be full of joy

when they receive a gift from Santa that you help give.

“The people that don’t have enough money to buy

their children gifts still get the feeling of magic when

believing in Santa,” McTernen added.

In the future, will you ever donate? It is a great way

to give and not receive in December.

“I’ve always wanted to donate for charity, but my

family never took the time to look into it,” eighth grader

Alyssa Williams said. ”I’m very grateful for charities

that give gifts to those in need because it would suck

not getting any gifts from anyone.”

[ 8 * news & features * volume V, issue 2 ]

What’s the best gift you’ve given or received? Trevor Little

“I would say [my best gift re-

ceived was] my little brother, but

I would be lying.”

BRAYDEN BROWN eighth grade

“My phone [was the best gift I

have received].”

FATIMA LUNA-BAUTISTA seventh grade

“Footie Pajamas [were the best

gift I have received].”

ANGELINA GOES sixth grade

“The best gift I’ve received are my two

adopted children. The best I’ve given is sup-

plying food at the men’s shelter in Seattle.”

MRS. LINDGREN social studies teacher

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Giving trees at government building, like this one, collect

gifts for those who don’t have any and are in need. COUR-TESY OF COMMONS.WIKIMADIA.ORG VIA CREATIVE COMMONS

LICENSE.

Lanae Wohlmacher & Trinity Forristall

[ 9 * news & features * volume V, issue 2 ]

DECEMBER Updates from Clubs

Yearbook Club, Robotics Club, and Math Team all were

part of breaking news just after our December dead-

line. These clubs’ activities have been updated below.

Stay tuned for more updates in our next edition.

MATH TEAM The MBMS Mathletes shined at a regional math com-

petition on Dec. 13 against teams from Sammamish,

Bellevue, Federal Way, and even several elite prep

schools.

Several team members received individual recogni-

tion.

“Mt. Baker earned rankings in the top 10 in all catego-

ries,” math coach Mr. Carter said.

Zach Botz earned a first place for seventh grade

“ciphering” category, and fourth place overall individu-

ally in his grade level.

Joining Botz, eighth graders Sol Han (fourth place),

Oscar Safsten (fifth place), My Do (eighth place) fin-

ished with recognition in the individual overall competi-

tion .

The overall team finish at the regional competition

was not available at the time this article was published.

ROBOTICS MBMS Robotics club competed in a FIRST LEGO League

(FLL) regional event At Auburn-Mountainview High

School on Dec. 13.

Club advisor Mr. Cowan was proud of his team.

“Our first time at competition and they scored fifth

out of 34 on the robot competition and won an award

for their programming,” Cowan said about the results.

The robotics competition was developed for and

middle school age students. MBMS club members built

and programmed their robots to compete in a variety

of challenges.

According to FirstWa.org, the goal of the competition

was “to inspire students to take an interest in science

and technology and begin considering these fields as a

career.”

Cowan was excited about the next challenge, focusing

on “simple and reusable code.”

“[The team] will be moving on to semi-finals in Janu-

ary,” Cowan said.

YEARBOOK The Yearbook hosted its Glow in the Dark Dance for

the second year in a row on Dec. 12.

Over 100 MBMS students packed the Commons to

celebrate the holiday season.

Yearbook offered several fun giveaway items and a

photo booth, along with the musical stylings of the Cahd

Dowling Productions.

Yearbook adviser Mr. Jacobs thought the event was

packed with fun activities for students, despite one

particular unplanned surprise.

“The DJ was used to using his fog machine, and it set

off the fire alarm,” Jacobs said. “The fire department

HAD to come.”

Despite the unplanned drill, Yearbook raised over

$500.

MBMS Choir will host a dance in February.

Seventh grader Zach Botz finished first in the seventh grade “ciphering” category (left). MBMS Robotics team placed fifth overall at a

regional competition on Dec. 13 (right). COURTESY OF J. CARTER & A. COWAN

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Reis MacNeill

Audiences have packed theaters to watch how the Hunger Games saga end. As of

Dec. 14, the film has grossed over $277 million, but audiences will have to wait for

the final installment, due out Nov. 2015.

After surviving two Hunger Games, Katniss Everdeen is in District 13 where they

are under the leadership of President Coin, Katniss becomes the symbol of rebellion

against the Capitol to save Peeta and everyone else in Panem.

Katniss and the resistance are trying to get Peeta back because the Capitol is

using him as an advantage just like the resistance is using Katniss as a advantage.

“[The movie] is a little slow at first but at least there is a little action and it was

really fun to watch,” eighth grader Jolie Adams.

The review for Mockingjay Part One was really good with most critics who

watched it at least giving it a three star out of six.

“The movie was really good, but I didn’t like how they split it into two movies,”

eighth grader Zech Walker said. “[The filmmakers] should keep it at one movie. I

also don’t like how they leave cliff hangers.”

Many people do not like cliff hangers or split movies, because then the audience

wantsto know what happens in the next one, and people know what’s going to hap-

pen. They still go to it because it’s a movie event. Even though they read the book,

they think it’s going to be better because it’s a movie and when it’s a movie coming

after a good book everybody thinks it’s going to be better.

“[The film] was a little boring, but I think the second one will be better because

they got all of the boring stuff out of the way,” eighth grader Trinity Forristall said.

“I also liked how they left a cliff hanger at the end of it, so you want to see the next

one in theaters. You’re on the edge of your seat and about to fall off then it ends.”

There are people who love that adrenaline in their body wondering what’s going to

happen next.

Many critics stated they were on the edge of their seat by the end of the movie

wondering what’s going to happen next, and they can’t wait to see the next movie in

theaters.

Many people love the movie and how it ended. Audiences are already awaiting the

next movie release, so they can watch it.

Many other people, on the other hand, did not like how it ended and wish they had

continued with that same movie and not end it like that with no cliff hangers.

Which one are you?

‘Hunger Games’ Sequel Dominates Box Office

E N O T R A P K A Y Q D P N I B Y H L M

N I O C N E D I S E R P W Q Y R M B G O

W R R Z W A A K K R O E Q U E Q B R F D

Z J Z F R O R J X O E H V H X M N U P E

F S E L A G B R L W Y P C A P E E T A E

C N R R P I Z D O Y P R E B R Y J V S R

R O B R X Z J X A W A G T E M B S W K F

O W I A R F F J B Q K R W L K M C C A F

S M X E T L G K B I A S Q Q J E H B A M

S T N G G N A B U C G E E T R U C Z I I

B X P S I T N O K R H M I A L L Y A P Q

O G L K N H F E B A W A W G V G Y O E K

W C C I X R R R V W C G Y W X V N X J P

E O S K K J H I M B Z R K M X T E I C Y

M S S N A G M L P N M E I R I F N W K K

E R X C L Q L C I T D G K S C T D M K N

F G K D I S T R I C T N K Y E I C Q A A

Q E H Q O B K H S Q R U Q R Z F Q H Y P

R E Q T Z X X P O A H H I Z H F B W U S

T J Q D T P P T S P E P T D V U T N O Z

ARCHERY

ARROW

BOW

BRAVERY

CROSSBOW

DISTRICT

FREEDOM

GALE

HAYMITCH

HUNGER GAMES

KATNISS

MOCKINGJAY

PARTONE

PEACEKEEPERS

PEETA

PRESIDENT

COIN

PRIM

SNOW TRACKER

JACKER

WAR

[ 10 * arts & entertainment * volume V, issue 2 ]

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The Christmas That Almost Wasn’t G AVAILABLE: Netfflix

Synopsis: A mean rich landlord bought the North Pole and is now charging

Santa Claus rent. The landlord is charging Santa Claus rent because he hates

the little kids. Now, Santa is a year behind in his rent. He has to figure out a

way to get the rent money, or he has to shut down Christmas. If Santa does

have to shut down Christmas, all of the kids will be very disappointed.

SO BAD, IT’S GOOD: This movie was made in 1966, so you would probably

guess that the special effects of the movie are horrible. You are correct; it

was so cheesy you could see the wires that would hold up the reindeer while

they are flying with Santa. Also the movie was so cliché; you could guess what

was going to happen after 20 minutes of the movie. Personally, it was the

worst movie I have seen in my entire life.

RATING: NO Golden Rings

Streaming holiday films Hunter Allemand & Tyler Braun

What She Wants For Christmas NR AVAILABLE: Netfflix

COURTESY OF AMAZON.COM COURTESY OF DVDTV.COM

SYNOPSIS: The movie What She Wants For Christmas begins when a little girl

named Abigail (Brianna Dufrene) writes a letter to Santa Claus asking for a

special gift, but instead, Santa Claus does not bring the desired gift, so she

takes action and keeps him captive. Abigail’s best friend Moosie (Lily Solange

Hewitt) discovers that Santa is being held captive and makes a plan to save

him. After all of the timeless escapades, Santa and Abigail start to grow fond

of each other. In the end, all is well, and everyone returns to where they are

supposed to be.

SO BAD, IT’S GOOD: What She Wants For Christmas is an amazing movie if

you are five years old and do not understand what Christmas really is.

Washed-up actors like David Atwood and Christian Keyes make this movie a

timeless classic for all ages six and under. Despite his many movies, director

Jason Hewitt has never made a movie rated above six-out-of-ten stars. Also,

most users who watched this film rated it below three out of ten stars. I do

not suggest you watch this film, as it is poorly casted and poorly directed.

RATING: 2 cups of hot cocoa out of 37

[ december 2014 * arts & entertainment * 11 ]

Seattle’s Starbucks has been very popular among

teens, especially teenage girls. Starbucks is sell-

ing holiday drinks and gift cards for a limited time

only. These include Peppermint Mocha, Chestnut

Praline Latte and Caramel Brulée Latte. Nothing

will warm a person’s heart more than a warm cup

of Starbucks coffee on Christmas morning.

The Xbox One has been going

crazy on the market since it

came out. Dominating sales in

stores everywhere, many kids want this upgrade of an Xbox

more than likely from their old

Xbox 360.

Yuiliana Romo-Perez & Trevor Little

During the holidays, kids are thinking about

what presents they wish to see under their

Christmas tree. Three classes were polled to

decide what gifts they wanted. most.. Mrs.

Buhr’s sixth grade class chose Beats Head-

phones as their most wanted gift., while sev-

enth graders in Mrs. Roger’s class would like a

Starbucks Gift Card.. Finally, Mr. Cowan’s eighth

grade class wanted to receive an iPhone 6.

Students have different opinions about what

presents they want, depending on what grade

they’re in. These are five of the Top Holiday

Gifts of the year, according to these classes.

*Amount spent in

2013 on holiday

shopping (Nov. 1 – Dec. 16)

*Courtesy of StatisticBrain.com

ALL

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Although an iPad Air 2 was not the

most popular among the classes polled, it is still an electronic de-

vice that people crave. This iPad will cost from $499-$829. Most

tablets are used for movies, TV

shows, and reading. Its ten-hour battery life will allow people to

use apps for a longer time and

surf the internet with faster Wi-Fi.

Several students at Mt. Baker Middle School have

been seen wearing Beats Headphones over the

past few weeks. These headphones come in a vari-

ety of colors and different styles. Whether you want them to mute all sounds and distractions or

listen to music, these headphones will produce the

highest quality of music.

The new iPhone came out this

September. It’s the thinnest, tall-

est, and lightest iPhone yet,

measuring 4.7 inches and weigh-

ing 4.55 ounces. It includes an

updated iOS 8. The camera has

improved greatly which teens will

look forward to for taking selfies.

An iPhone 6 will cost from $199-

$849 depending on the gigabytes

it can obtain and the phone com-

pany it has.

[ 14 * mbms barks * volume V, issue 2 ]

What

GRINDS My

GEARS

Dylan Grenz, Jennifer Ortiz, Skylar Erickson, Brianna Lloyd

You know what like grinds my gears? Like those

people like who use the word like in like every sen-tence. Like yeah. I like can’t stand it. See how annoy-

ing it can be?

Some people are also annoyed by other filler

words such as “um,” “yeah, “and “you know,” but

like bothers me the most. I’m never sure why people say it, other than the fact that their mouth is moving

faster than their brain. In Mrs. Carstens’ classroom

the word like has been banned in classroom discus-

sions.

This generation of students doesn’t learn correct grammar usage like past generations have. I am a

victim of it as well. It shows in our everyday conver-

sations how uneducated we can be. Just think about

it.

Would you write an essay with all those filler

words? Or when answering a math question, would you write, “two times seventeen is ummm… like…

thirty-four,” on every question?

You wouldn’t say it then, so why say it while really

talking?

So take time in your conversations to think about what you are going to say

before you say it. Avoiding

that dreaded like will make

people LIKE being around

you more. And that’s what grinds my gears.

-Dylan Grenz

All g

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in f

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of M

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Disagree? The segment ‘What Grinds My Gears’ is

presented as opinion and does not express the views

of all MBMS students or The Canine Chronicle. If you

would like to express your opinion, write us a letter,

and you may be published in our next edition.

What really grinds my

gears is when someone tells you not to do

something, and then

they turn around and do

the thing they told you

not to do. It is really annoying.

You just wasted your time and my time screaming

and shouting at me, and then you turn around and do

what you told me not to do.

I remember when I was about ten years old and my little brother was about five.

We had just made stepping stones to put in our

garden. I stepped on a stepping stone because it

was a “stepping” stone. I didn’t step on any flowers

in the garden, and my brother yelled at me to get

off. He didn’t want anyone stepping on them, be-cause he thought they were there for design.

When I got off, my little brother hopped on.

Nothing is more annoying than getting told not to

do something, and then the person, who told you not

to do it, turns around and DOES it. I’m fine if you tell me not to do something, I really

don’t mind, but when you yell at me and then go do

it, it’s highly annoying.

And that is what grinds my gears.

—Brianna Lloyd

Do you know what really grinds my gears? Well,

it’s when you try to eat a cookie and dip it in a glass of milk, and it doesn’t fit.

Like are you trying to ruin my life right now? And

when the cookie breaks and it sinks to the bottom of

the glass and gets all soggy and gross.

But when you get the most perfect amount of milk onto the chocolate chip cookie, it’s like heaven in

your mouth.

But then when you take a drink of you milk and get

a giant piece of soggy cookie in your mouth, it’s

honestly like eating a giant slimy slug. And the most horrible aspect of this is when the

cookie is like way to giant to even fit in the glass.

Should you just use a giant bowl and then pour the

milk in that?

And also when you drink the rest of the milk from

the glass after you finish eating the cookie is proba-bly the best part, but then when you go in for a drink

and finds cookie crumbs in your glass, and just ruins

the whole thing.

Then the milk just

tastes disgusting, and it just ruins all the

chocolaty goodness.

And that is what grinds

my gears.

-Skylar Erickson

Something that

really grinds my gears is when some-

one is standing right

behind me when I’m

on the computer.

Not just on the computer, but on any

object that’s only meant for one person; like a phone

or a book.

It’s fine if I told them to come and look, but when

they just come out of nowhere, it’s creepy. Sometimes I tell them to leave, and sometimes I

wait until they leave by just staring at the screen.

Sometimes they don’t get the hint, so I have to tell

them to go away.

Why do they have to make everything so compli-

cated? It makes me self-conscious too, because I don’t

know what they’ll start doing, or what they’ll think

about what I’m doing; especially if it’s my parents

that are over my shoulder.

This never happens at school, because I have nothing to hide. I’m supposed to be working, and I

don’t hide my work unless I’m not done.

The point is that you shouldn’t hover over peoples’

shoulder when they’re on the internet.

—Jennifer Ortiz

[ december 2014 * mbms barks * 15 ]

PHOTOS BY TREVOR LITTLE & SHEWIT ALEMAYEHU

The Auburn Riverside varsity women’s volleyball

team recently won the state 3A volleyball title.

Led by former Mt. Baker students Carson Heilborn

and Precious Atafua, the Ravens finished with an as-

tounding record of 36-0.

The team finished the season winning the state tour-

nament, beating Capital of Olympia. Atafua was later

named the MVP of the tournament, finishing with 16

kills as well as 16 digs in the final match. Heilborn also

played well, and plans to

continue playing at the col-

lege level at the University of

New Mexico.

The team was coached by

Ms. Leverenz, dean of stu-

dents here at Mount Baker.

Leverenz has been involved

in volleyball both as a player

and a coach since the sev-

enth grade. Leverenz enjoyed volleyball at first, but

really started to get into it in tenth grade when she

played on the same team as her sister under legen-

dary Auburn High coach Nancy Zehnder.

Her love for the sport grew even more as she began

to coach.

Leverenz has coached the Riverside squad since the

program started 20 years ago, reaching state nine

times.

However, this year’s team was clearly the most

successful, dropping just one set in four tournament

matches and getting into the top 50 national rankings.

“This year’s team had success, because not only

were we talented, but we also had a unique chemistry,”

Leverenz said.

The team had many players including all-state setter

Heilborn and outside hitter Atafua that had been play-

ing together for a number of years.

With the team’s success many have been asking the

same question: will Leverenz coach at Baker this year?

“No, I will not,” Leverenz stated. “I need to take some

time for me and spend some time with my dog. He is

getting old, so I only have a limited amount of time left

to spend with him.”

When hearing the news, many Baker volleyball play-

ers were disappointed.

“It’s definitely sad,” eighth

grader Lexi Allen said. “She

will be missed very much.

When I had taken some of the

Riverside volleyball camps,

she was there, and she

helped me become a better

player.”

Allen also had help from

Leverenz last year when the

baker seventh grade team practiced with Leverenz and

the varsity players. Allen said Leverenz really helped

her learn how to pass and set more efficiently.

Eighth grader Rachel Lee also played volleyball last

year. While she has never had Leverenz as a coach,

she “has heard good things about her.”

Lee continued, saying “[Past teams] I’ve been on

have worked together really well as a team.”

However, Lee believed if Leverenz coached the team

they would have more success in the upcoming sea-

son.

As of now there is no replacement for the varsity

team, who begin practices next quarter.

While Leverenz remains dean of students at Baker,

she will no longer coach both fast pitch at Riverside

and volleyball here at Baker, focusing on her own

health as well as her state champion volleyball squad.

Dylan Grenz

[ 16 * sports * volume V, issue 2 ]

Dean of students and volleyball

coach Chris Leverenz stands a

little taller after her team’s

state championship. The team

finished the year with a record

of 36-0. PHOTO BY P. WARRING

“This year’s team had suc-

cess, because not only were

we talented, but we also had a

unique chemistry”

—Chris Leverenz

The sixth grade girls gymnastics team have The sixth grade girls gymnastics team have

been working hard for their upcoming meets. been working hard for their upcoming meets.

These girls compete on many different events, These girls compete on many different events,

and some even compete on more than one event. and some even compete on more than one event.

They have won their first meet that took place They have won their first meet that took place

on Dec. 2., and their final meet was on Dec. 11.on Dec. 2., and their final meet was on Dec. 11.

“I think the team did great in the last meet, “I think the team did great in the last meet,

because we all got pretty good scores and knew because we all got pretty good scores and knew

our routine,” sixth grader Natasha Bounma our routine,” sixth grader Natasha Bounma

stated. stated.

However, sixth grade gymnasts only had two However, sixth grade gymnasts only had two

meets in the season while varsity has five. Sixth meets in the season while varsity has five. Sixth

grade gymnasts also only practiced twice a grade gymnasts also only practiced twice a

week, and varsity gymnasts practice everyday.week, and varsity gymnasts practice everyday.

“I’m okay with having only two meets and “I’m okay with having only two meets and

practicing less because we’re only in sixth grade practicing less because we’re only in sixth grade

and we’re still learning” Bounma stated. and we’re still learning” Bounma stated.

But Coach Davis has a different perspective. But Coach Davis has a different perspective.

“I am so busy this year that I am fine with it, “I am so busy this year that I am fine with it,

but for my team’s sake I wish there was at least but for my team’s sake I wish there was at least

one more.”one more.”

The team still stands strong and is always The team still stands strong and is always

prepared for any kind of issue that comes their prepared for any kind of issue that comes their

way.way.

“They are very strong in persistence, but we “They are very strong in persistence, but we

aren’t very experienced” Coach Davis explained. aren’t very experienced” Coach Davis explained.

” In the events, our team did best on the bars,” ” In the events, our team did best on the bars,”

Bounma said.Bounma said.

The improvement in these girls increased very The improvement in these girls increased very

much over time and they had enjoyed their first much over time and they had enjoyed their first

experience of being part of Baker’s gymnastics experience of being part of Baker’s gymnastics

team. team.

“We improved a lot over time because at the “We improved a lot over time because at the

start of the season, we were all confused and start of the season, we were all confused and

didn’t know our routines. Now, we all know our didn’t know our routines. Now, we all know our

routines and aren’t as scared anymore,” Bounma routines and aren’t as scared anymore,” Bounma

explained. explained.

The scores from the last meet went from 5.0 The scores from the last meet went from 5.0

to nearly perfect, and Coach Davis will be ex-to nearly perfect, and Coach Davis will be ex-

pecting a lot more improved and better scores pecting a lot more improved and better scores

from the next meet. Keep it up gymnasts!from the next meet. Keep it up gymnasts!

Sharon Manivanh

COU

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[ december 2014 * sports * 17 ]

The Varsity Gymnastics team members are great at

what they do; they have won 10 league titles in a row,

and were working towards their eleventh this year. Out

of the four meets they have had, they haven’t lost a

single one.

It might be because of the talented coaches, or maybe

because of the dedicated gymnasts. Whatever the rea-

son, they don’t plan to be beaten.

“[I think] we’ll be undefeated this season,” Varsity

Gymnastics member Zareah Barren said.

Mrs. Swanson thought that someone who is a good

leader in the team was Makenna Price. Price has been

doing gymnastics for seven years, which means that

she must really know what she’s doing, and how to help

others improve.

According to Mrs. Swanson, one of the most improved

members in the group was Iliana Onishchencko.

On Dec. 4, she scored an 8.2 on the balance beam.

She’s really glad she got such a high score.

“[It was] good [to get an 8.2 because] it was my high-

est score,” Onishchenko said.

Their last meet was a home meet on Dec. 18. Results

were not available at the time this article was published.

It was against every school; this meet promised to be

exciting, but also a little nerve-racking, for the gym-

nasts. It was everybody’s last chance to beat all of their

previous scores.

“[I’m] nervous, because I want to beat my score [of

an 8.2],” Onishchenko said.

Other people, however, were confident that they

wouldn’t lose, so they had nothing to worry about.

“Everyone’s been working so hard to perfect their

routines, so I’m confident we will win this last meet,”

Barren said.

This year’s team doesn’t say any negative things about

each other, which is good when you’re trying to per-

form. When mistakes were made, they helped each

other out, laugh it off, and try again.

“[The team has] good sportsmanship, and there’s no

drama,” Price said.

“Everyone is really nice and we cheer everyone on…

how everyone helps makes a difference,” Barren said.

Many of the members this year plan on joining gym-

nastics next year.

“I will join gymnastics next year, because it’s fun,”

said Barren.

Overall, this season has helped many girls boost their

confidence, and their flexibility skills. Auburn-Riverside

High School is going to gain many talented gymnasts

next year.

Jennifer Ortiz

Eighth grader Iliana Onishchenko (left) focuses on the balance beam. One of the most improved members on the team, she scored

a high score of an 8.2. This improvement helped the Bulldog gymnasts beat every opponent in league. COURTESY OF MBMS YEAR-BOOK

[ 18 * sports * volume V, issue 2 ]

Varsity Boys Soccer is doing amazing so far this

season with a 5-2 record just losing a tight game to

Rainier Dec. 4 to have Rainier being in first place. Know-

ing our outstanding Bulldogs out on the field, this will

not stand for long.

“The seasons doing really well, the teams in our

league are good. We have one loss from Olympic and we

have a really good game today [December 4] against

Rainier for a sole first place, [which they lost],” Coach

King said. “Poncho [Fransisco] has the most goals as of

[Dec. 4] with six goals.”

“Our season is pretty decent. We need to clear up our

passing but other than that it’s going really good,” mid-

fielder Jorge Malacon said. “I feel like we’ve been doing

better so the end of the season will be better then when

we started.”

Malacon’s position has been shifting to help the team

everywhere. “I’ve been moving around a lot but I feel

like I’ve been doing good at my positions. As long as

other people do their jobs, everyone’s positions will be

good.”

Center-defender Arturo Martinez-Reyes has a small

difference on Malacon’s answers.

“We are not working as a team, and we need to prac-

tice harder, so we can overcome our opponents,” he

said. “I like playing with my team.”

Martinez-Reyes thought something happened after the

2-0 win over Rainer in the second game to unite the

team.

“When we beat Rainier 2-0, and then we lose. That

means we need to work harder and put more effort into

soccer,” Martinez-Reyes said.

Our Baker Bulldogs have a fast soccer team, he said.

“Our biggest strength is having a fast defense and of-

fence,” he said.

Our school sport teams are always determined to win,

but it’s always about having fun.

“My advice is they need to play united and have good

chemistry, but the most important thing is to have fun,”

Martinez-Ryes said.

“The season’s alright. Things could be a lot better. I

wish more guys would of stuck around longer,” left-

midfielder Tyler Braun said. “We are currently 5-2 [Dec.

12].”

Braun was hoping the loss of Martinez-Reyes due to

his broken ankle will not affect the team’s last game.

“I think or last game is going to be tough considering

we’re only going to have 10 men.”

Due to the massive amount of goals this season,

Braun thought his team will score at least 40 goals.

Noah Elwell &

Connor Pennycook

Coaches Proud of

FUTURES Soccer Shewitt Alemayehu

Our futures soccer team has so far had an amazing sea-

son! Coach Decker and Coach Vickers are both very proud of their teams.

Coach Decker and Team One record for the season so far

is 4-2 (as of Dec. 12). And the coach for Team Two is a pro-

fessional soccer player, Cameron Vickers and he plays for

the Dayton Dutch Lions. Team Two record for was 2-2. The boys trained hard at practice and games.

Benjamin Britten loved playing soccer and thought the

season went pretty well.

“[My favorite part of the season so far is] getting to hang

out with my friends and we win a majority of our games,” he said.

One of Britten’s favorite games was when they played

against Olympic.

Joshua Morales also thought the season was going well

and like Britten his favorite game was against Olympic since they were a tough team to beat.

Fransico Rivera thought the season was going well and his

favorite part and game of the season was when they, Team

Two, played Rainer. He thought the team did their very best.

One thing Britten thought he improved on was his skills, like crossing and shooting. Rivera also thought he improved

on skills, conditioning and passing. .

Coach Decker also thinks they improved on communicating

and passing the ball.

And for sixth graders that want to join next year Coach

Decker and Coach Vickers are looking for commitment. Although the season had not ended at publication, the

Futures Soccer team is going to be great next year.

“Next year Coach King is going to have a good team.”

Decker said.

Mt. Baker team played smart and with heart, later winning the game against Cascade. COURTESY OF MBMS YEARBOOK

The Varsity Boys Basketball Team started off with an

impressive 6-0 record as of Dec. 10 and is looking to

finish the season undefeated with an 8-0 record. The 15

players worked hard in class every day and practice

even harder so they can defeat their opponents.

With Dan Ramirez, Theo Washington, and Donavan

Sanders dominating the court, they are unstoppable.

This team still has tough opponents to defeat, but with

teamwork and dedication they can do it.

According to Dan Ramirez, Israel Melaku, and Theo

Washington, Donavan Sanders was the most effective

player on the team.

“Donavan is the most effective player on the team

because he gets rebounds every game, and he can

score in the paint every time,” Ramirez said.

Ty Emmons, Dan Ramirez, Israel Melaku, Donavan

Sanders, and Theo Washington, usually start off the

games but Issac Palmer, Dylan Molina, Noah Elwell, Zach

Barto, and Andrey Grishchenko finish them. If they are

dominating their opponent, the third string comes in.

Coach Lubash has done a great job not only making

them better at basketball but teaching them a life les-

sons on the way, like “don’t give up with out a fight.”

“Our toughest opponent so far has been North Tapps

but we still have Ranier and Cascade to play,” Lubash

said.

Even though the team is undefeated, they’re not per-

fect.

“We need to work on making layups and scoring in the

paint when it matters the most,” Melaku said.

This team is like one big family that works together to

do their best.

“We’re the best team [in the league], because we

have great team chemistry and we space out the

court,” Ramirez said.

Surprisingly this team said that they play best not at

home but at North Tapps.

“North Tapps has a good court that is so clean your

shoes stick to it,” Washington said.

Most of these players have been playing for a while

now. During intramurals almost every player on the

team is playing basketball and getting their practice in

while they can.

Who knows? Maybe one of these young talented

basketball players will make it to the N.B.A. one day, but

for now, their high school’s will be privileged to have

them.

The seventh grade basketball team has had a wonderful start so far this year. As of Dec. 11, Mr.

Jordan’s Team #1 was 3-0 , and Mr. Vatne’s Team

#2 is 1-2. “I like seventh graders they are coachable and

enthused,” seventh grade boys basketball coach Mr.

Vatne expressed. “It is a good time to teach the fun-damentals [of basketball] and sportsmanship [and

makes it] more about getting better.”

Both teams have improved in different ways this season. “[Team #1] has more experience and has

been shooting better,” Vatne stated.” [team #2] has

tremendously [improved so far] they are becoming better at defense.”

The teams had struggles in their games but they

still improved and did well. Cody Gramps, who plays left wing, has been playing

basketball since he was in third grade.

“We have been getting in the motion on what we are

supposed to do,” Gramps said. ”The first two games [we struggled] because we weren’t passing the ball.”

Team #2 had been struggling making baskets but

they improved a lot this year. Keegan Yorke played forward and wing and had

been playing basketball for about five years.

“[We have struggled] hitting rebounds and we don’t try hard enough,” Yorke said “[But] we are running

the plays better.”

Point guard and wing Sam Erickson, who had been playing basketball since fourth grade, had about the

same idea as his teammates.

“At the beginning we didn’t know how to play with each other,” Erickson said.” We could rebound better

and commit less turnovers.”

They showed a lot of effort at different times of the game and have a fantastic season.

“[We show the most effort] probably when we are

not behind by a lot of points.” Gramps stated.

[ december 2014 * sports * 19 ]

Zech Walker & Arturo Martinez-Reyes

COURTESY OF MBMS YEARBOOK.

Seventh Grade Basketball Symone Bolden

Media Handling Ferguson Verdict If you’ve tuned into any news station you have probably seen

plenty of news reports about the Ferguson shooting trials and

the damage it has left behind. With the riots not just in the city

of Ferguson, this story has plenty of controversy. As the peo-

ple of Ferguson struggle to rebuild their lives, the news does-

n’t get better. Did the media only make the situation worse?

Catalyst Speaker Motivates Teens On Nov.25, Scott Backovich visited our school to motivate

students to become a catalyst. A catalyst is a person or thing

that causes a change. A group of kids that are involved in

some sort of leadership class or club were chosen by Princi-

pal Brown to spend the rest of the day with Scott. Do you think

his speech has impacted the daily lives of students at Mt.

Baker?

‘The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 1’ Katniss Everdeen (Jennifer Lawrence), survivor of both the

seventy fourth and seventy fifth annual Hunger Games must

become the rebels’ Mockingjay in District 13 in order to save

the districts from the Capitol. The film came out on Nov. 21 and

has already made $277million since it was released. All the

fans rushed to the theaters on the premiere. Will you go to

watch “Mockingjay Part 1’?

Starbucks Holiday Beverages Move over Pumpkin Spice! Starting in November, Starbucks

puts out their holiday beverages. These delicious drinks come

around only once a year. It’s like we moved from pumpkin

spice everything to peppermint everything. Many people in the

Seattle area love their coffee and what better way to cele-

brate the holidays than Starbucks? Will you order a limited

edition drink this holiday season?

Winter Snow Days Winter is almost here and the weather has already started to

be a bit harsh due to a small amount of snow and the cold

temperatures. The days that school gets cancelled will be

recovered in May. Over on the east coast, states have been

getting large amounts of snow. One city in New York had

reached 88 inches of snow in this November. Do you appreci-

ate snow days or do you have an aversion towards them?

Grumpy Cat’s Rise to Fame What started out as a simple internet meme grew into a global

sensation. Tardar Sauce (Grumpy Cat) was born with dwarf-

ism which caused her face to look permanently grumpy. Since

the infamous meme rose to fame, the cat and her owner have

a mass amount of merchandise available for sale. Despite

popular belief, this angry feline isn’t worth $100 million. Are

you tired of how excited people are about this memed feline?

The Canine Chronicle

Staff Debates Yuliana Romo-Perez & Kira Kopcho

What do you think about the Ferguson verdict? Symone Bolden

‘’I think the cop should be

put in jail for life.”

JALEN JACKSON

eighth grade

“I feel confused about the subject because on one hand he was caught in stealing but surrendered by raising his hands in which the officer proceeded to fire killing a man who didn’t try to run or fight back.” JANALYN LOPEZ

sixth grade

“I think its stupid that people are rioting and destroying things off of one decision they made. I think the decision was right to not put the cop in prison.” HALEY LINDOR

sixth grade

“I’m a firm believer in our justice system but, I’m afraid the jury may have been a little biased. It seems it would have been a better choice if they changed the location of trial. I believe in peaceful protesting and do not support burning down buildings to demonstrate their reaction.” MRS. CARNAHAN

social studies teacher

ALL

PH

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TES

Y O

F D

OR

IAN

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GRAP

HY

LICE

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[ 20 * mbms barks * volume V, issue 2 ]

[ december 2014 * mbms barks * 21 ]

December

Locker

Lottery

Francisco Gonzalez-Ramirez, Connor Pennycook, Odom Meas

The Locker Lottery is an exciting part of our

newspaper. We go around and select lockers

at random and interview whoever’s locker it

belongs to. The lockers selected were for

sixth graders Kevin Griffen and Joselyn Gar-

cia, seventh graders Sydnee Chinn and Angela

Aganus, eighth graders Spencer Tyson and

Jazmin Alvarez.

Do you think sixth graders should be able to go

to the dance? K.G.: Yes, because everyone should be having fun

and going to the dance. S.T.: No, they don’t know what love is yet.

Valentine’s dance. A.A: No, because they’re sixth graders.

S.C.: No, they need to earn their spot. J.A.: Yes, everyone deserves a chance at something

fun.

J.G.: Yeah.

What gift do you want for Christmas?

K.G.: I would want an Xbox One with 2K15. S.T.: For the school to be closed.

A.A.: Jordans. S.C.: Rosetta Stone.

J.G.: Beats.

What’s the worst Christmas gift you have ever

gotten? K.G.: A car toy.

S.T.: My brother got me girls’ underwear.

A.A.: A towel. S.C.: I had a creepy cabbage patch doll with red

hair. J.A.: A little box of chocolate I hate.

J.G.: A doll.

What is the worst Christmas movie you have

ever watched?

K.G.: The Grinch Who Stole Christmas. S.T.: The Grinch Who Stole Christmas. A.A.: I don’t really watch Christmas movies. J.A.: Charlie Brown.

How do you picture your winter break? K.G.: Snowy.

S.T.: In Bed. A.A: Spending time with family.

S.C.: Snow. Even though I’m going to California, I’ve always wanted a white Christmas.

J.A.: Hot chocolate.

J.G.: I think it’s going to be fun.

Did you read our last edition, what did you think

of it?

K.G.: Yes, it was good. S.T.: Yeah, Mr. Johnson as the guess who guy was

cool.

A.A.: Yeah. J.G.: Yeah, I think it was cool.

What is your favorite football team besides the

Seahawks?

K.G.: The Carolina Panthers S.T.: Minnesota Vikings

A.A.: Seahawks.

S.C.: Let’s say the Saints.

J.A.: Jets

Did you enjoy the speaker Scott Backovich?

K.G.: Yes, because he was funny.

S.T.: Yeah, he’s funny

A.A.: Yes, because he was funny and inspirational. S.C.: Yeah, he was really funny.

J.A.: Yes! He’s like my role model now J.G.: Yeah!

What do you think of the cameras in the halls? K.G.: They’re pretty cool, but a little weird.

S.T.: They are invading my privacy. A.A.: It’s pretty weird, because they’re watching

you. S.C.: It’s kind of creepy.

J.A.: I don’t mind them.

J.G.: I think it’s a good idea

PHOTO ILLUSTRATIONBY F. GONZALEZ-RAMIREZ VIA PHO.TO

[ 22 * mbms barks * volume V, issue 2 ]

In our last edition of The Canine Chronicle we started a new monthly feature called “Guess Who?”.

We provided a picture of a staff member and you had

to guess who it was. And now it is time to reveal who the mystery staff person was.

Eighth grade science teacher Mr. Johnson was born in Bethesda, Maryland, and like every kid, he had

childhood dreams to be a lawyer, politician (although

he now dislikes politics) or even a cop! He was stranded on Mt. Rainer for three days, but it

wasn’t anything like The Grey—thank goodness. He

fortunately survived, since they had plenty of food. “My brother and I are very resourceful,” Johnson

said. The most unique thing about Mr. Johnson is that he

has his own business. Saga RPG.

Mr. Johnson has always liked role playing; Johnson was seen in our previous edition dressed up as a Link

from Zelda.

“I was obsess with the Legend of Zelda,” he said. When Johnson was ten, he started playing Dungeons and Dragons and from then him and his company, Saga RPG, started building table top games.

The company makes RPG’s, which stands for role

playing games, for a bigger company called Path-finder.

“It’s a cross between a board game and a chose

your own adventure book,” Johnson said when de-scribing his company.

Mr. Johnson has only a few obsessions one of them

of being Starbucks, and he is a confessed chocoholic. He also likes spinach.

One of his biggest fears is flying which is weird because he’s been to the Cook Islands three times,

and its à15 hours from here.

Although Mr. Johnson was the president of the drama club in high school, he wasn’t always confident,

saying, “To be honest I was frightened to do a lot of

things but then I started trying new things.” Now he likes trying new things and is very ambitious,

avoiding sitting around his house and doing nothing.

Johnson liked music and was in his junior high choir, but wasn’t really good at first. It wasn’t until college

he found his love for playing the bass. “I just always found myself listening to it. Mostly I

write my own songs,” he explained.

He even confessed to writing a song about video games!

“In school I was afraid of failure, and now I welcome

it,” he concluded about his desire to improve daily.

This Mount Baker staff member has been to many other countries such as New Zealand and

Australia, and has previously lived in two other states before coming to Washington.

She has had many odd jobs besides teaching such as a newborn photographer, an employee at

McDonalds, and also worked at Nutrisystem. She even took baton lessons when she was a young

child. Stay tuned next month to find out who this mys-

tery staff member really is.

Skylar Erickson

Teacher Feature: Johnson

Shewit Alemayehu

In our previous edition of TCC we provided a picture of a staff member and you had to guess who it was. Mr. Johnson is seen here

on the left as a Link The Legend of Zelda. COURTESY OF N. JOHNSON & DORIAN PHOTOGRAPHY

[ december 2014 * life * 23 ]

Horoscopes Skylar Erickson

Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb.18): When you’re on your way to school, a piece

of gum will get stuck to the bottom of your shoe.

Pisces (Feb. 19-Mar. 20): The next time you eat fish; it will magically turn into an octopus and give you a giant

hug.

Aries (Mar. 21. - April 19): Make sure to

be careful when hanging up your Christ-mas ornaments, you don’t want to step on

one.

Taurus (April 20- May 20): Make sure to water your flowers, you don’t want those

petunias to get their revenge.

Gemini (May 21- June 20): If you find a dirty lamp in the basement,

don’t rub it; you might tickle it.

Cancer (June 21- July 22): Make sure to take your vitamins so you

can get big and strong. You want to be able to fight off ninjas.

Leo (July 23- Aug. 22): All of your holiday gifts will consist of socks,

zebra print, and a good old ‘starter pack.

Virgo (Aug. 23- Sep. 22): While trying to do the splits, your bones will

crackle like an old grandma.

Libra (Sept. 23- Oct. 23): Beware of fruit if you are one of those kids that sag their pants down to their ankles.

Scorpio (Oct. 24- Nov. 21): Next time you go to the desert, you will get stung by a baby scorpion.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22 Dec. 21): While you are at Walmart, you might see

an elf with a Christmas tree on his pants.

Capricorn (Dec. 22- Jan.19): When you come down the stairs for

Christmas, you might find a tiny elf in your stocking.

My favorite part of

the holidays is not

smelling middle

school students for

2 weeks !”