The View Issue 5

DECIEVED GIRL

CHEATER CHEATER,

PUMPKIN EATER

TRUELOVE

DECEITFUL BEHAVIOR AMONG TEENS: EXPOSED

CHEATERS

OBSTRU

CTION

CONFLICT

CONFLICT

LUSTFUL FEELINGS

the

MISTRESS

FROM PARK HILL SOUTH

INTERVENTION

Volume Thirteenissue number five december 17, 2010VIEW

FINAL SEMESTER

ISSUE

8-page holiday section+ p a g e s i x t e e n . Bigcat+ p a g e s i x .

Table of ContentsBTWapplication anxiety

FYI big cat on campus

TMIOMG l iars & cheaters

FAQ claim to fame

etc special holiday section

MVP back to the mat

behind the lyrics

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Letter from the editorby jesse mcginness

+ p a g e t e n .

+ p a g e s i x .

+ p a g e e l e v e n .

+ p a g e f i v e .

+ p a g e s i x t e e n .

+ p a g e f o u r t e e n .

As the semester and 2010 wrap up, I have come to one conclusion: there is no better joy than that of the meaningless. It seems the more we contemplate being a “grown up” and finding what our purpose is in life, the more we turn years into dates and friends into acquaintances. Perhaps there is something to be said of not knowing -- or, better yet, not caring to know. Think about it. We know we are going to grow old; changing diapers is a fate that nearly all of us share. Even scarier, the day of Depends diapers is becoming more and more inevitable. I don’t know about you, but I would much rather revert back to playing in the mud than playing in our.. well, you get the picture. Some call it naiveté. Some call it ignorance, but the more and more I think, the less I find that I truly know.

Who cares if I still believe I am going to grow up to be Yoda? It seems there is a very fine line between dreams and imagination and most are scared to walk that line. We are too caught up in the society-assigned gloomy forecast of making money and making a family. Maybe we all just need to bask in the glory of being young for as long as we can. Yeah, we are dumb, pompous, awkward, immature and, in the big scheme of things, way too optimistic. But if we start to lose that aspect of our youth, we will lose the only meaningless optimism this world currently has. There is too much death and knowledge for us to get caught up in it. So, I ask all of you to turn on some Spice Girls. Bleach those tips again. Whatever you have to do, or however long you live, just never ever grow up.

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issue five, dec. 17, 2010

issue five, dec. 17, 2010

Imagine: someone, somewhere a long time ago decided that a small, furry, big-eared mammal would represent the resurrection of the single most respected man the world has ever seen. Not only that, but this large bunny would hide candy-filled plastic eggs for small children to go find for many years to come. In some perception, this man/woman has created one of the most joyous holidays for adolescents. Or they have reached an ultimate high in ‘creeper’ status? Either way, the mastermind behind Easter started tradition, one that has been celebrated and adored for many generations. As of Friday Dec. 3, it seems South is mirroring this ‘bunny’ mindset. Our school has acquired not only a pretty sweet bell for our soon-to-be built tower, but a whole new tradition for South students to recognize. Yet, this sparks a thought. Can you make tradition, or does it just happen? In today’s society, the average person is ambushed by millions of traditions each and every day. For example, that annoying noise that rings precisely at 7:30 a.m. Of course, this does not exactly equate Christmas in the tradition sense, but our class bells have kept the same horrid sound not because our administrators wish to create migraines, but rather to create consistency. Another example is our summer break. This was instituted way back when it was expected that when a student was let out in May, he or she went home and helped the family out on the farm. The school year’s schedule has never really changed. Tradition, tradition, tradition.

On the same note, holidays were not installed with just efficiency in mind, however. It seems that the more obscure the tradition becomes, the more meaningful it is. Think about it. Who thought to cut an evergreen from its home in the forest each year, drag it into a cramped space in the living room and decorate it with glass spheres? No matter how illogical, the spirit is what truly matters. The logistics are nothing more that strange creativity and

faint symbolism that established the tradition. After Wikipedia'ing for quite sometime, one finds the history of Easter Sunday to not be as simple

as a super-creep wanting to dress in a large bunny suit. Tales of symbolism are littered on the page. The egg represents life and the bunny, fertility (not to mention a clever introduction to spring). The way some scholars interpret it to be is that this was representing the life that Christ brought back with his resurrection. The analysis could go on for pages, but here at the View, we do not wish to dig our own grave. The details, in the big picture, do not matter. It's what connotations follow it that do. So, some may be questioning why we chose a bell. Others are wondering where the school is getting the funds for this structure. But in the end, none of that matters. What truly matters is what the tennis team of 2020 is going to feel when they ring it. We are starting this tradition. Do not let petty logic and doubt ruin it. We are the the classes of 2011, 2012, 2013 and 2014, and every single person that rings that bell is going to remember it.

+ p a g e t h r e e .

the view staff editorialWith the ringing of a bell, south unveils a new tradition

Sky Hightradition

“the average person is ambushed by millions of ”traditions each and every day.

Mystery Machineput your south knowledge to use and see if you can guess this staff member and student

Interesting Fact About You

Favorite Food

Super Power

Mexican or italian

Blue cheese and chips

Scuba diving license

I don’t even know where to begin

Flying; I’d never be late

a literal death stare

Student

Staff

Log onto Phsview.com to find oUT THE NAMES OF THEse MYSTERY PEOPLE

>>to read student reaction to the bell, go to phsview.com

Park Hill: to

You remember going to see him at the mall, writing letters to him, leaving him cookies and milk and, most importantly, opening the gifts his elves created

every Dec. 25. These holiday traditions are all based on one fat fictional man: Santa Claus. He may have played a key role in your childhood Christmas memories, and, for many, finding out he was not real made a lasting impression. “It all happened in elementary school. Everyone started talking and saying he wasn’t real. I didn’t believe them, but I waited up one year and saw my mom putting the presents under the tree and I knew,” said Marc Grandstaff, sophomore. “After that, she gave me the grown up talk, and that’s when I found out about the Easter Bunny and everything else.” Shelby Bessette, junior, said she found out when she was about ten. “Every year Santa would come and bring us a present and bring the rest later,” Bessette said. “Well, one year I looked outside and saw ''Santa'' getting out of my grandpa’s truck, so I asked my mom about it and she told me not to tell my

grandpa I knew. He still does it every year.” For most kids, believing in Santa was just a grade school phase, but for others he existed for a little bit longer. Blake Reser, junior, truly believed in Mr. Claus until she was in seventh grade. “It was the night before Christmas, and my mom was working nights at the hospital. So, I guess my dad asked my older sister to help set up the presents under the tree from Santa. We were in her room, and all of a sudden, she said, ‘I don’t think I wanna help dad set up the presents, because I want it to be a surprise in the morning.’ But I didn’t know what she meant, so I asked her. And she said, ‘you know, like the presents from Santa.’ And I tried to play it off like I already knew, but I didn’t.” Along with the wonderful memories come the sad ones. Grandstaff said after he found out, he was depressed. Senior Kim Everheart said she cried for literally a week. And as for Reser, “My dreams were crushed.”

CLAUS CATASTROPHEby malana bradford

S outh’

s stude

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share stories

of disco

vering Santa’s truth

off campus curriculumNorthland Career Center offers students

different opportunities in a different building

b y j o n holden What exactly is VoTec?

It is a common name for what was known to many as the ''kids that get on a bus and go somewhere to do something.'' Well, if you would take I-29 North to Platte City, like I did on Thursday, Dec. 2, and enter a building called the Northland Career Center, you would find what is not seen by an everyday student. I parked my car, walked in and found myself in the same shoes as what is known to many as a VoTec student. I walked into the front office and asked where I should go. They asked me who I was and I replied by saying, “I’m a VoTec kid.” Immediately an administrator corrected me: “They’re not VoTec kids. They’re Northland Career Center students.” What may have seemed a trivial label for me was an important distinction for those working and learning and the Center --and, as I learned, for good reason. The Northland Career Center offers 10 different hands-on classes in which kids can be certified. Most students either get into the specific occupation after high school, use these skills to pay for their college education or just go to college in the specific field they are in right now. A common misconception of the Career Center is that

there is not actually work involved. Many people may sign up for VoTec thinking it’s a walk in the park. Those people soon drop the class, or are just not invited back,

because the reality is that each student puts in hours of hard work to earn their

certification and, for some, even a salary. Another unknown fact is that the South students not only

work with other South students, but with other kids as well. Smithville, Liberty, North Kansas City and Park Hill school districts all attend and take classes together at Northland Career Center. This creates an atmosphere that many students enjoy. “I like the environment, teachers and the welding aspect of the school,” Dylan Roath, senior, explained. When I first began walking around, I asked my tour guide when class lets out. I was then told that when you take classes at Northland Career Center, you actually don’t take classes, but spend all your time here in one class, earning one degree. This helps the classes run more smoothly because the kids are all here because they want to be and have a job to do. This environment resulted in a large range of students involved in the program. “[It is] very diverse, just like your average high school would be,” said counselor Ron Webster. In between working on projects, students have a 10-minute break where they can go to the cafeteria and sit and just enjoy themselves. They can order food that the culinary arts students have created and they can sit and can be average teenagers. “I really like the breaks we get here,” said Adam Pasley, soph. The Northland Career Center gives opportunities for kids to show what they are good at. It gives a kids a chance to succeed and to earn living when they graduate. It mixes real life with theoretical experiences and shows that, if given the chance, you will be surprised at what can be done. + p a g e f o u r .

faq.

just like your average high school,”“(It is) very diverse,

>>read more holiday stories at phsview.com

For a school only in its 12th year, South has a lot to be proud of. State-leading EOC scores, state championships representing three different sports and an excellent music program are all highlights of the first dozen years within South’s walls. Indeed, the problem for principal Dr. Dale Longenecker has not been getting the most out of his students. The issue has been getting the student body to realize how their hard work is paying off. “This is like the Disneyland of high schools,” Longenecker said. “We want our kids to feel good [about their accomplishments].” Enter the bell tower project, which became a legitimate enterprise on Dec. 3 during a school wide initiation ceremony. A brief video preceeded the bell’s entrance into the gym, and the bell was rung by the captains of each fall squad that won conference. According to Longenecker, the idea for the bell tower was sprung from conversations between the administration, Leadership Council and STUCO. The plan for the tower was in large part formulated over the summer in an effort to reward student achievement and help create the unique individuality South has longed for since its inception in 1998. “Over time, we’ve developed our own identity,” said Longenecker. “This is just a piece of that puzzle.” If all goes according to plan, the tower’s influence could affect student morale on multiple fronts. Those in charge hope that the tower serves not only as a

school icon, but a reminder of South’s successes on a comprehensive level. “We want our school to have an association with the bell,” said Ethan Robb, junior, who, along with fellow juniors Haley Shelton and Barrett Hudson, is spearheading STUCO’s

involvement with the bell tower. ''It’s something that we can all get behind.” Some support has been hindered, though, by the tower’s anticipated expense reports. According to rough estimates by Longenecker and STUCO, the final tally for

tower construction could total up to

$50,000, but both sources were quick to point out that a large portion of the costs would come from fundraisers. STUCO, who plays a large part in the financial aspects of the project, says money for the bell tower could come from several sources outside the district, including corporations and private donors. The student body has even been part of the equation, helping to foot the bill by participating in events like the iPad raffle. Because of these possibilities, Longenecker remained positive about the tower’s financial situation. “If [our school] wants a bell tower, we’ll get a bell tower,” he said. The completion of the tower would be a monumental event in South’s history, not only changing the landscape of the campus, but possibly changing how students feel about their school. “We want kids with swagger,” Longenecker said. “Hopefully the bell tower will help us find it.”

+ p a g e f i v e .

Past Park Hill School District alumni make their marks in American history

Park Hill Prodigiesby marie hahn

South introduces Bell Tower plan to increase school spirit in multiple dimensions by danny jones

For Whom the Bell T lls

Barrett Hudson and Ethan Robb bring out the new Victory Bell at the winter sports assembly. photo by casey wood

futurePark Hill: to Past

Some students tend to believe that kids graduate from the Park Hill School District, as with any other average school district, with only the expectations

of working in a cubicle. Many, however, may be surprised by the well-known names that stem from this very district. Some of them may have only graced the halls of Park Hill for a couple years, while others grew up and graduated with the same motto the students of the district hear to this day: “Building successful futures, each student, every day.” With South only in its 12th year, it is surprising to see the talent that has already sprouted from these very halls. Tommy Hottovy, a 2000 graduate of South, is now a successful minor league baseball player with the Portland Sea Hawks. Not only was Hottovy a successful baseball player during his time at South, but he excelled in almost all aspects of the high school lifestyle. From a look back at the 2000 Park Hill South yearbook, Hottovy was a member of NHS, quarterbacked the football team and played basketball. Clay Lenhert, Read 180, remembers his time with Hottovy and had nothing but compliments for the baseball star. “He was your all-American kid. He excelled academically, athletically, had fantastic manners,” said Lenhert. “He would have been successful in whatever he chose to pursue.” One of Park Hill’s smallest wonders comes from Renner Elementary. Bobb’e J. Thompson, known for his roles in “That’s So Raven”, “My Baby’s Daddy” and “Role Models”, experienced some of his first academic years in this district. The youngster always had a passion for acting, rising to fame at the mere age of five, according to fandango.com. In 1990, Wes Scantlin was an average teenager trying to find his place at Park Hill High School. Scantlin did not quite fit into the typical high school student stereotype, but he found his passion with music. Though he did not find enjoyment in the majority of his classes, he sparked an interest in his creative writing and poetry class, which brought him into song writing. Some of his first bands, Good Question and High Impact, both of which fell apart, eventually led him to his current band, Puddle of Mudd, according to puddleofmuddfanpage.com. Senior Sebastian Anderson, whose father grew up with the now famous rock star, recalled his experiences with him. “Puddle of Mudd used to open for my dad’s band, the Baloney Ponyz,” said Anderson. “Nobody really expected them to get as successful as they did.” From young to old, the Park Hill School district has experienced countless talented kids. Maybe a student reading this very paper will make history one day, and join their successful Park Hill predecessors.

>>read more holiday stories at phsview.com

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After hearing “real men wear mustaches,” I felt a strange sensation that there was a night of wonders ahead. In hindsight, the prophecy did not even touch the effect that Big Cat 2010 held on its numerous and anxious viewers. It was obvious that reviewing something like Big Cat was a big ''deal''. So naturally, an investigation for the essential aspects of acclaimed ''reviewers'' was needed. After much research, I found that coffee, plaid, glasses and notepads surrounded the lifestyle. So after indulging in these assets, I prepared for the big night. Big Cat, for those who don’t know, is South’s version of a male beauty pagent. This year it was themed to be a Lion King spinoff with a title of ''In The Jungle''. From the way it has evolved throughout even my four years in this school, though, it can hardly be labeled as such. From the orchestrated skits to the ironic attempts at showing one's ''talent'', the event has become more of a humor pageant than anything else. Which, I might add, is appropriate for the pool of contestants and the audience it was aimed at. To put it simply, shirtless men and aspirations to create world peace no longer can make the cut. We want humor, and humor is what we got. Hardly any of these categories were conducted in any sort of serious manner. For example, senior Dean Wilsbacher presented a portfolio of sorts to showcase his dancing skills for his talent. Needless to say, the seizures... I mean, dancing was not exactly what you would see on MTV’s A.B.D.C. It was not distasteful; rather, abstract. That being said, some of the categories were tackled in a bit more diverse way. Thankfully, shock value was not the only method to success. Senior Bennett Potter, in the same category as Wilsbacher, showed to be more of the renaissance man of the night. As soon as the lights went up, Potter was at the microphone and said, “There are only two things I am good at: Being a friend and piano.” Just then, he sat and serenaded the crowd with some actually enlightening piano playing as the big screen displayed evidence of his ''friendships.'' Right there, he mixed the humor that we, the audience, demanded and displayed art that the very event prompted him to show. There were moments that left me gasping for breath (senior Lucas Gardner’s basketball scene, for example), and on the same note, moments that led me to hide my face in my hands out of embarrassment. From senior Abhi Gullapalli’s rendition of Battle of the Bands, to senior Tyler Chambers’ rap ensemble, to the hilarity of seniors Tyler Arthur and Madison Hill as the emcees, the night was one well spent to say the very least. I concluded at the end of the night, that each person had a little ‘big cat’ in them, yes. But the one who won my vote was Potter. The judges and voters seemed to disagree with my choosing, though, as at the end of the night, they declared Wilsbacher to be the victor and labeled him as Big Cat 2010. Maybe coffee and plaid do not matter. Nonetheless, I will forever attest that mustaches turn boys into men. Maybe with that, I can fill the shoes of a reviewer, but I will never be able to match the talent, humor and overall good character of this year’s Big Cats.

by jesse mcginness

+ p a g e s i x .Abhi G

ullapalli

Bennett Potter Dean Wilsbacher Tyler Chambers

L ucas Gardner

w i n n a w i n n a c h i c k e n d i n n a .

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fyi.Can't wait to beCA

TS:

top: Bennett Potter shows his moves. left: Lucas Gardner brings humor through hunting. above: Tyler Chambers screams into a microphone. photos by amanda danneau-rever

>>view our big cat photo gallery at phsview.com

There are two things that we as Americans seem to be overly attached to. No wait, that’s an understatement -- addicted to. Those things are meat and oil. Unfortunately, I don’t have a car and therefore there is absolutely no chance of an oil strike from this girl, but meat I was more than capable of opposing. In the United States alone, over nine billion animals are slaughtered each year to keep up with the fluctuating needs of our ever growing population, according to the USDA. We seem to overindulge, when countries less fortunate than us survive on small scraps and where meat is a far cry from their meal expectations. So this is my attempt to indulge just a little less. On Oct. 21, I went “cold turkey” on turkey. Besides turkey, I also cut beef, chicken, fish and all other animal byproducts out of my diet. The first week was by far the hardest for me. The scent of chicken made me salivate like a dog in summer, and it seemed that everyone around me wanted to invite me to Buffalo Wild Wings, my previous Tuesday resort, to watch them cover their faces in wing sauce. Thanks for that. I happened to make a few notes on the human nature over the last month as I observed these carnivorous actions. It seems that humans are the only creatures that can remain friendly with a doe eyed animal until we decide to eat them. Jeez, talk about being two-faced. No, I did not decide to stop eating meat for any higher reason. To be completely honest with you, I did it simply because I wanted to see if I could. Most people told me there was absolutely no way I could do

it, so I did.

Well, I almost did. Technically, I did consume one package of Ramen Noodles, which did contain animal flavoring, but

let’s just pretend that I didn’t. There are, however, numerous reasons to oppose eating meat, but I’d rather leave that up to PETA, because we all know how great they are at opposing animal cruelty (insert sarcasm here). But on a side note there really is something to be said about those who have chosen to live their lives “meat free.” They are not only speaking out about the unjust treatment of livestock, but they are also living a

healthier lifestyle. Some of the world’s most well known names are also vegetarians. The list includes Brad Pitt, Plato, Socrates and Thomas Edison. Now, that’s a bright idea. In the month I went veg, I noticed better memory retention, less fatigue, less hunger

and an overall better feeling body. Along with all of these positives, I also gained five pounds. I know you would think not eating meat would make me lose weight, but I rushed into my new found diet instead of actually taking the time to prepare meals. Instead, I lived on PB and J’s, junk food and celery. However, there are several restaurants in KC that are 100 percent veg. Because after all, there is more to being vegetarian than eating leaves and berries. At the end of the month, the gig was up, I went back to gobbling down turkey, chicken and ham, all in one setting. So now instead of finding me at home staring at carrots, you can see me at Buffalo Wild Wings eating my weight in slathered chicken wings. I urge all of you to try going “meat free,” for at least a month, no matter what your reasoning for it is. I guarantee you won’t be disappointed.

Vegg ethirstA reporter’s account of going vegetarian for a month

b y s tep hanie g r i f f i th

sTAY aCTIVESTAY WARMWith the winter taking away the luxury of going outside to get excerise, here are some alternatives

veg anytimebreakfast Blue Bird Bistro

Tofo scramble: smoked tofu sauteed with spinach, tomatoes, onions, garlic and mushrooms with a side of roasted potatoes and a vegan house made biscuit.

lunch Cafe SeedVegan wraps with soup: avocado sprouts, sun dried tomatoes, black olives and vegan cheese spread.

dinner Eden AlleyVeggie Burger: house

made patty, made with car-rots, celery, yellow onions, tofu, vegetable oil, soy sauce and bread crumbs, served atop a locally made whole wheat bun with dijon mus-tard, spicy vegan aioli, dill pickles, red onions, greens and a tomato.

Get

out

of t

he h

ouse

platte county ymca

lap poolweight equipmentcardio machinesgroup classes

Zumba’s fun. You’re just dancing around. And I do

that on my own. So why not do it in front of people?“ ”senior cecilia pfaff

+ p a g e s e v e n .

sweat at home

yogaaerboicsstrength trainingbalance gamesactivity log

I liked how much it knew about you. it charted your progress and bmi and stuff.“ ”teacher andy dale

wii fit

Good KC food without the

“the scent of chicken made me salivate like a dog in summer.”

by ida patton

meat@Brookside

@Crossroads District

@Plaza

A universe of knowledge in a city of opportunity.

GET A LIFE

UMKC has hundreds of ways to get a life. Find yours at umkc.edu/getalife

You are sitting in Mr. Messer’s AP Literature class and it is essay day. As the time begins, everything is going smoothly. Suddenly, at almost exactly the half-way

marker, something hits you. And it hits hard. It’s the painful sensation you know all too well. But worry not. It seems that the technology generation has found a cure. Look out cramped hands, you've met your match. Laptops have arrived. For the first time, platinum and gold cards have been given the privilege of bringing laptops from home to enhance learning. “I actually came up with this idea last February/March and we began to work behind the scenes to put in the technical

requirements to make the program work,” said Brad Sandt, Director of Technology, in an e-mail. “The program is extremely cost efficient for the district and allows students to utilize technology devices that are already familiar to them.”

.....Sandt has been developing a program for the district that allows students to use their laptops from home and gain network access while at school. So far, the program is only a pilot and will be offered solely to platinum and gold card holders. South is the only school in the district with the program, but Sandt hopes for more expansion.

.....“[It] will be critical for us to work collaboratively and gain feedback

on what is working and what is not working as part of the program,” Sandt said. He explained that the tech crew is already looking to improve the program in the future by going beyond the basic software provided (Microsoft Office and Internet Explorer) to allow Adobe Product usage while logged on to the network. Jolina Kline, technology, is also working on the program and feels it is not only cost effiecient, but great for students. “[This] will help prepare students for college,” said Kline. “The laptops are their own and will provide a sense of responsibility.” The program was released at an assembly to platinum and gold cards on Nov. 17, and since then, there has been positive reaction. Dean Wilsbacher, senior, is taking part in the program, and said he thinks it is great for the school. “The only complaint I have is that YouTube is blocked,” said Wilsbacher. “But seriously, the program helps out with debate so much. And teachers have shown nothing but support.” If students are interested in obtaining these laptop rights, they must go to a registration session and acquire a packet on how to start in the program. Those with questions and/or comments can email Sandt at [email protected]. As Sandt stated, this is only a pilot program. The laptops are available for computer/tech classes, as well functioning as a simple tool for taking notes. Students may find that if restrictions and guidelines are followed, the program could become a major component of learning in the future. “I understand that technology is an integral part of our students’ lives outside of school,” said Sandt, “and it is critical for us to support that availability in school.”

Quick, what is 50,000 divided by 30? Any guesses?

The correct answer is 1,666.6 repeating. To any random Joe, that number is pointless. But to a participant in the National Novel Writing Month, those 1,666.6 repeating words are crucial to stay on task. NaNoWriMo is short for National Novel Writing Month. Participants have 30 days to create a novel. From Nov. 1 to Nov. 30, students spent more than a couple hours writing one of the only requirements for their novels: 50,000 words, or 1,666.6 words per day for a month. “My friends were doing it and it sounded fun,” said Megan Skyrme, junior. NaNoWriMo was created on accident in 1999 by Chris Baty. He and 20 others from the San Fransisco Bay area got together in July and decided to make a competition. Over the years, it has become more popular. According to NaNoWriMo.com, last year alone, they had 167,150 participants, and out of those participants,

32,178 people won -- getting their novel printed. “If you make the 50,000 words and submit it, they will print a copy for you,” said Skyrme. Other prizes are awarded also, including a certificate, a t-shirt, web-badges and stickers. Lauren Blair, junior, said she enjoys the bragging rights. “[My novel is about] a slave who accidentally started a civil war even though she didn’t want to,” said Blair. Some people have gone beyond and finished early. Aislinn Brand, junior, finished her novel on Nov. 29 with a total of 50,027 words. Even if she ‘only' finished a day early, it is still a big deal. This was Brand's first year participating. “I did it because I have never finished one of my novels before,” said Brand. “I was obsessing about it.” There was no specific topic

to write about. However, there were a couple of rules for the people wanting to win. According to NaNoWriMo.com, the novel had to be at least 50,000 words. The story could not be pre-made; it had to be from scratch starting on Nov. 1. It had to be a novel, which is defined as a lengthy work of fiction. There could only be one author, and authors could not write one word over and over again 50,000 times. All these rules added up to a strenuous writing schedule for participants. “I’m a super masochist and I like writing,” said Blair. This was Blair’s fifth year participating in NaNoWriMo. NaNoWriMo happens all

around the world. Everything is done on a web site. Participants sign in and when finished, submit their novel. “I hand write it and have my mom type it in,” said Skyrme. It’s too late to participate in NaNoWriMo this year. However, it happens every November. If interested, visit NaNoWriMo.com or go to a Young Writers Club meeting for more information. “[It’s called] literary abandon,” said Skyrme. “Just write and have fun with it.”

nanowriMoStudents create 50,000 word novels -- for fun by cydney conner

btw.

South students gain laptop privledges

+ p a g e n i n e .

b y j esse mcg inness

mightierthan the Pen

"The program is extremely cost efficient and allows students to utilize technology [they are already familiar with]."

Senior Ian Powers uses his personal laptop in class. photo by Austin Cosler

What does senior year mean to you? Is it the excitement of turning eighteen, or is it the privileges that come with being the “big cats

on campus”? As a senior in high school, you get the chance to stand on the front gate at all the football games, go to Prom and walk across the stage to graduate. This all may look ideal to the underclassmen that live among the idolized seniors, but little do they know that soon-to-be graduates have a lot of work and big decisions ahead of them -- decisions that will set the stage for their entire lives. The largest and most feared decision of them all may be where to go to college. College application stress is on the mind of most students, even starting freshman year. Even though college is four years down the road, this is the time in your life when you need to set the foundation for your future. According to decliningbydegrees.org, the percentage of people graduating high school and college has been declining and when it comes time to apply, a high ACT score is not the only thing colleges look at.

Your senior year is not the only time that matters, and how you do in your classes

throughout all four years affects your GPA. This factor can either make or break you when it comes to applying. Depending on a GPA and ACT score, you can either get accepted or denied from schools that you want to go to. Working hard to keep my GPA up throughout high school is important and will pay off when it comes time to considering college options. The big things on students’ minds are taking the ACT, getting accepted to college, making application and scholarship deadlines and, of course, all the financial aspects that tag along with the experience. According to uga.edu, during the 2007-2008 school year, approximately 67 percent of all undergraduates received some sort of financial aid, whether it was

scholarships or student loans. Need some helpful tips? First of all, study for your ACT. Some teachers say you cannot study for it, that you actually have to take the test, so don’t waste your time. This, however, is false. Mycollegeguide.org says that on average, students who reviewed material from past classes have scored higher than those who decided to “just wing it”. It’s hard to remember how to ''foil'' a binomial if you haven’t done it in three years. Group study sessions help make studying less monotonous. Plan a time to meet at Caribou, whip out the books and get some work done. The ACT is not just a one-time thing either. Think of the ACT as playing a video game. The more you take it, chances are, the better you'll get. After high school, the ACT isn’t really relevent but since colleges look at that score, working hard and getting a decent score is important. College is expensive, no matter where you decide to go. The A+ program may seem like a waste of time to some people who aren’t planning on going to schools that accept it, but in reality, it is just free money sitting there for the taking. Maybe a big university is not your style. The A+ program provides you with two years of free education. That “f” word (free) isn’t used often in the world of college tuition. If you have your eye on the bigger universities like Mizzou or Iowa State, you still have the opportunity to apply for scholarships and loans. Now, the real stress begins. You now have to worry about applying for stacked scholarships, making the deadlines and making sure you’ll be able to keep the scholarships throughout your college years. So, whether senior year is your last stretch before college or your last burst of fun and freedom before you are thrown into the real world, no matter where you decide to go in life, it will be followed by many stresses and many new decisions that will lay out the stepping stones of your life.

Kicking Apps and Taking Names

Seniors struggle for scholarships and acceptance letters while

working through the stress of the situation

by jordan boucher

+ p a g e t e n .

Scholarships Worth Checking

Out

Scholarship Due DateRandy Martin Memorial Mon. January 24, 2011

PHNEA beverly Vogt Mon. January 24, 2011Park Hill Education Foundation Mon. January 24, 2011

Prosperity Planning Scholarship Sat. April 30, 2011

The song that was heard around the world

Wouldn't it be nice if every awe-inspiring moment that occurred in your life would be accompanied with a symphony

to salute your glory? Well, wake up, because you're really not that interesting and most of your ''awe inspiring moments'' are not really that magical. Most of us are not going to grow up to be astronauts or fairy princesses. Sure, maybe a few of us will go on to be rock stars, but for the most part we are simply destined to be everyday Americans. Maybe I'm a cynic or maybe I have just simply lost hope in the pursuit of the American dream. I personally do not mind my mediocrity. In fact, I revel in it. I don't want to be flocked by the paparazzi. All I really want is happiness. But if fate has more lined up for me than a few kicks, I'll sign autographs with pleasure and count my money in hundred dollar increments. I will admit it, I am a hypocrite. But aren't we all? If I had it my way, I would stand in front of a million people and sing a song of my own composition, but because of my lacking vocal skills, it would appear that God did not have that in store for me. Although most of us cannot say that we have led a revolution, taken anyone, including ourselves, across the universe, or even inspired two people to join hands, the ''Fab Four'' certainly did. The Fab Four consisted of some of the most well known names of the 70s: John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison and Ringo Starr. Honestly, if these names are not ringing a bell, you should probably just put the paper down now and get heavily involved with your iTunes account. These four men were all born into rocky home lives and poor economic standings, but somehow, with a bit of stardust, they became who we know them as today. In the midst of a changing world, rock n' roll stood up and defied all social boundries. And at the top of that stage stood John Lennon, singing a plethora of songs that would ring out long after the artist's death in 1980. He not only wrote the songs that shaped a generation, but he also stood up for what he believed in. Whether he was aware or just in a drug-induced stupor, no one will truly know, but what we do know is that he said what he wanted when he wanted to say it. In March of 1969, Lennon and his wife Yoko Ono used their honeymoon as a Bed-In for peace at the Amsterdam Hilton. The event attracted worldwide media coverage, and told people that now is the time to speak up. During their second Bed-In they sang a song and millions joined along. The song quickly became known as an antiwar anthem, as ''Give Peace a Chance'' was sung by a quarter of a million demonstrators against the Vietnam War in Washington, D.C. on October 15, the second Vietnam Memorial Day. Maybe all of today's problems can be solved with an equally eloquent title and catchy chorus. Maybe one day, someone will sit down with their guitar and sing a simple phrase, possibly just as simple as ''I want to hold your hand.''

Behind the Lyrics: I want to hold your hand

b y ida p atton

You Are The Controller

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e ap

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Attention fun-seekers: Microsoft recently found a way on top of wish lists this holiday season. Xbox released the “Kinect,”

their newest, and possibly most popular product on the gaming market. Outsmarting Nintendo Wii and Playstation Move, Xbox can now be played without a controller whatsoever. You are the controller. The Kinect camera detects motion accurately and reacts quickly. The best game is undoubtedly “Dance Central,” where players are required to imitate and perform dances to popular music including artists “Snoop Dogg” and “Lady Gaga.” Since the new technology was released so recently, few games are available for purchase as of right now. However, game options range from sports to animal raising. I think this technology is a great way to get people involved with multi-player games. It is great for entertaining friends or even for your own in-home workouts during cold winter days. Kinect’s gameplay has already become a hit among teens, families and dance enthusiasts, proving Xbox Kinect as a standard for gaming of the future. Wii, realizing Xbox took the lead in the gaming race, just released their dance game, attempting to keep up with the competition, but they still trail by far. If you already own an Xbox 360, you can purchase the Kinect itself for $149.99, but Microsoft released a package deal for those who don’t already own one, which includes the Xbox system itself and the Kinect for $299.99. I give the Xbox Kinect a 5 out of 5 stars for its accuracy and motion sensitivity. Also, it deserves credit as being a milestone in improving the video game world as we know it. Kinect’s popularity proves the gaming experience to be the future of indoor family fun.

tmi.1:14 PMAT&T 3G

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Microsoft cuts the cord on the video game worldby t iernan e iberger

by

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No more need for the magazine subscriptions--now every-thing on TV can now be checked on an app. Check times on your favorite shows and movies from every channel.

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>>read about COD Black Ops at phsview.com

Sometimes even the most seemingly flawless person can contain the deepest impurities. Whether it be a slightly crooked smile or a scar that never properly faded, there is no such thing as perfection. There are those who try to hide their imperfections with a sweep under a rug and those who unveil their scars through a line of words. Upon closer look, the truth begins to show itself through the implications of black and blue bruises upon an arm or the unruly shouts that migrate down a hall. According to relationship writer Neil Clark, one in three teenagers has experienced violence in a relationship. However, long after the bruises fade, the words still remain. According to recovery.com, emotional abuse is as damaging as physical abuse, though it is often harder to recognize, and therefore to recover from. Both subconciously and consciously, it is human nature not to get involved in other people's personal affairs, said PsychCentral.net. However, just because someone ignores all of the signs, does not mean that the risk is erased. ''He made me feel worthless and weak,'' remembers Kelsey Lindberg, senior, of her recent struggle to leave her abuser. The American Psychological Association recently released a report stating that mental abuse is more likely to leave lasting effects on a person than physical abuse does. In their daily battles, those who are the victims of mental abuse come to view themselves as worthless and powerless beings. Oftentimes, these victims may develop serious medical dilemmas such as severe depression, eating disorders, PTSD and substance abuse and still not be able to leave their partner, according to standford.edu.

Many people equate domestic violence with soap operas or a dramatic film, but it lingers closer than anyone wants to believe. Even at South, cases of domestic abuse are present.

Lindberg was in an ongoing abusive relationship from eighth grade up until recently. Looking at Lindberg, students and teachers alike see her as a happy and caring teen. Her close friend Briana Luevano, senior, could not even fathom anyone having so much control on one person. Throughout Lindberg's endeavor, she said she lost part of herself. ''I felt insecure [around him] and I could not trust him anymore. I never knew what kind of mood he would be in or if he was going to take it out on me,'' Lindberg said. Lindberg has begun to regain both her confidence and her trust. She is not the only one. ''I knew he was [emotionally] abusive, but I was too worried about losing him to say anything. Because of him, I not only gave up friends but I also missed out on making high school memories,'' recalls Christina McOsker, junior. McOsker underwent a two-and-a-half year battle for freedom from her abuser. Looking back on her

relationship, she said she understands that his controlling nature never gave her a chance to be herself. ''He would tell me what I could and could not do,'' she said. Besides his hunger for control, he also betrayed McOsker's trust on a couple of occasions. ''He cheated on me and then looked at me and told me it was my fault,'' she said. Sometimes those being abused just need someone to talk to or a friend to persuade them into leaving their partners. ''If you are stuck in an abusive relationship, keep telling yourself that there are ways to get out,'' said Lindberg. ''You are your own beautiful person without them.''

Control Overload DATING GONE WRONG

+ p a g e t w e l v e .

the truth behind the facade of the perfect relationship

by ida p atton

If you think your friend might be in an abusive relationship . . .

Do: Don’t:-Ask if something is wrong.-Express concern.

-Listen and validate.-Offer help.

-Support his or her decisions.

-Wait for him or her to come to you.

-Judge or blame. -Pressure him or her.

-Give advice.-Place conditions on your support.

Times have changed. When it comes to committing to someone, it used to be high school sweethearts ended up

getting married. Now, students go through so many relationships during high school with the majority of them ending badly. These heart-braking split ups affect their mindsets on future possibilities of finding what everyone is searching for: love. From freshman to senior year, every teen grows more mature in their own way, yet it seems as if relationships stay the same. If cheating freshman year is holding hands with someone else, while cheating senior year is sleeping with someone else, the terms of deception remain the same. Some South students have their own definitions. “Cheating in a relationship is going behind your boyfriend’s back and going on a date with another guy and kissing him,” said Courtney Coyle, sophomore. No matter how it is defined, cheating is an ever-increasing part of high school and young adult relationships. “These relationships are like stepping stones that help teens develop the ability to be intimate,” said Dr. Marsha Levy-Warren in her book “The Adolescent Journey”. According to Dr. Levy-Warren, cheating at the high school level is a product of emotional development and should not be taken lightly. As an American culture, men are often thought to blame for cheating, but Kent Masters, sophomore, said there is not one gender to blame for this act of dishonesty. Both girls and boys commit this act in one way or another. Masters has been personally affected by cheating and finds it to be a prevalent problem in high school. “I think guys cheat because they are

[bored], it seems easy and they think they won’t get caught,” said Masters. “I think girls cheat because when they act more sensitive, they can get what they want.” No matter the reason, the result is devastating to whoever it happens to. “It made me feel heartache,” Masters said. The devastation can be multiplied when discovered in a public location, as increasingly happens thanks to social networking. “I found out on a Facebook message,” Masters said. “You feel embarrassed and taken for granted.” That embarassment is hard to conceal when even a large school like South can be a very small world when it comes to relationships. First reported by the science department of MSNBC, a study of sexual and romantic relations at a high school found students connected by long chains, rather than in a tight network, with a core group of a promiscuous few. Sharing of partners was rare, but many students were indirectly linked through one partner to another. In the most striking chain, 52 percent of the romantically involved students were connected in a manner of Student A having relations with Student B, B having relations with C and so on down the line over the 18 months of the study. Students see this chain effect at South. “Underclassman try to be cool and senior boys go after all the younger girls,” said Haley Knoll, senior. With this act of indecency happening and the research to back it, cheating in young adult relationships is occurring at an ever-increasing rate. The Wall Street Journal reported that a study by the University of Washington Center for the Study of Health and Risk Behaviors found between 1991 and 2006, the numbers of unfaithful

women under 30 increased by 20 percent and men by a whopping 45 percent. Yet, the same study found that 90 percent of Americans “think cheating is always wrong.” If that is the case, why are there so many cheaters? “I think it’s the idea that people view themselves on a different level then they view everyone else,” said Charlie Ramseyer, social studies. “It is the justification effect.” So, as students progress through their emotional development, it is clear that their actions do not only affect themselves. Learning right from wrong is just a part of the puzzle. Watching who you drag through that lesson is another.

by aust in cos ler and jesse mcginness

teena e romance unraveledD e c i e t f u l b e h a v i o r a m o n g t e e n a g e r s : e x p l o r e d

DATING GONE WRONG

+ p a g e t h i r t e e n .

g

A F C

The NF L season is coming to an end and the playoff races are

by harr ison white

N F CIn August, after Brett Favre’s comeback, everyone expected the Vikings to take the division with no problem. What a surprise that turned out to be. The Vikings are in third place, beating out only the Lions. The North is still up for grabs between the Bears and Packers, but the NFC is so close this year, I do not think a North team can grab the Wild Card. The Packers win the division sending Chicago home.

A perennial power in the league, the NFC East is always one of the NFL’s toughest divisions. The Cowboys’ melt down cleared the way for Michael Vick and the Eagles to make a playoff push. But the Giants are trailing by only one game back in the division. With the NFC being so tight, there is no guarantee the second place team can grab a Wild Card spot. The Eagles win and the Giants beat out the Bears for the Wild

Card spot.

And finally, we come to the NFC West, one of the worst divisions in sports. The Rams lead the division with a 6-7 record at time of press; that’s right, a team that less than .500 is on top of the division. However, there is still no clear cut division winner with the Seahawks and 49ers trailing by only a game. Either way, the West will have little implications come playoff time. I say Sam Bradford and the Rams take the division.

The South is yet another tight race. Matt Ryan and the Falcons hold a slim lead over the defending Super Bowl champs -- the New Orleans Saints. Drew Brees and a finally healthy Reggie Bush hope to make a push for the division, but will probably end up with only a Wild Card spot. The Falcons are on a hot streak and show no signs of cooling off, losing only to the Eagles and the Steelers. The Falcons will take the South, with

New Orleans taking the Wild Card.

E A S T

S o u t h

The AFC East is arguably the best division in the NFL. The Patriots -- with a new found run game -- and Jets are in a tight race. But after the Pats embarrassed the Jets on Monday Night Football, there is question whether the Jets will even make the playoffs. Because of the impressive beginning of the season, I’ll take the Jets make the Wild Card, with Tom Brady and New England taking the division.

N o r t hThe North is another strong division. On Dec. 5, Big Ben and the first place Steelers beat the second place Ravens to take the division lead. Both are quality teams that will definitely be a factor in the playoffs, with the team who ends the season likely taking the division. I think the Steelers will edge out the Ravens for a division title by just one game, sending Baltimore to the

Wild Card.

W E S TThis brings us to the West. The Chiefs and Chargers are battling for a playoff spot, with Oakland still in contention. Kansas City, with the league’s best running game, are hoping to hold off San Diego and earn their first playoff berth since 2006. Decision time: after the Charger's week 13 loss to Oakland, the Chiefs division lead is

too big. Chiefs take the division.

e a s t

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w e s t

W i t h a n e w s e a s o n u n d e r w ay, w r e s t l i n g l o o k s f o r l e a d e r s h i pby danny kerwin

The AFC South is, for the first time in years, a toss up. The injury-prone Colts (17 injured players at time of press) have limped to a 6-6 record, leaving the division open to a late charge from Jacksonville. For the Colts to make their ninth straight playoff appearance, Peyton Manning will have to return to his old form after throwing 11 interceptions in just three weeks. I say Peyton figures out the kinks, Colts take the division.

PLAYOFF PREVIEW

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Over the years, South wrestling has been very

successful and last year’s squad was no exception. The team sent four members to the state tournament in Columbia and are looking to do even better this year. “I think we can get at least five or more guys to qualify this year,” said Chase Gray, sophomore, who was one of the state qualifiers last year as a freshman. According to Sam Eickhoff, senior, much of the team’s success last year was due to the surprising leadership of 2010 grad Grant Gould. But others are looking to Eickhoff as the leader for this year’s team.

Alex Weatherly, sophomore, said “Sam’s just a natural leader. ''He can always get you fired up.” Weatherly is not the only one looking at Eickhoff as a

leader. “Sam’s been here four years,” said Gray. “He knows what he’s doing.”

Eickhoff, along with fellow senior Grant Kirschbaum, will be trying to lead a team full of youth against national powerhouse and archrival Park Hill. “We have good match-ups against [Park Hill], so if we take advantage of those we can beat them,” said Eickhoff. But the Trojans are not the only thing on the mind of South wrestlers. “I want to win conference. I think we can get at least six or seven guys to state,” said Adam Weatherly, sophomore. If South can keep up success this year, people could start talking about the Panthers as a national powerhouse -- not just Park Hill.

BACK MATToThe

+ p a g e f o u r t e e n .

mvp.

>>read a BCS Bowl preview at phsview.com

''Keeping the status quo, quite honestly, was never going to be an option. [Becoming Sporting KC] is all about a new start. It's a new name, a new stadium, a new time.'' -- Ex-Wizards, now Sporting KC President Robb Heineman, about the transition from the Wizards to Sporting KC (from the KC Star) ''I knew the history ... I wanted to be a part of an old-time indoor franchise. To bring back the old logo, the old music, the old laser show, I was calling every day, trying to get here.'' -- Missouri Comets goalkeeper Danny Waltman, about playing for the Comets (from the KC Star)

There’s an interesting trend among Kansas City sports teams at present. You have the Chiefs winning. You have a hometown hockey team, the Missouri Mavericks, to support (look them up). You have three local college teams who rank among the top 15 basketball programs in the nation. More interesting than any other KC trend, though, is the irony which illuminates the metro’s soccer scene. The Wizards franchise began its biggest transition in its 14 year history on Nov. 17, gathering a large band of supporters on a cold, drizzly fall night to announce that the Wizards had officially become a thing of the past, only to be replaced by a new name (Sporting KC), a new stadium (set

to be done in June 2011), some new colors (“Sporting blue” and indigo) and a new face to Kansas City’s soccer team. What’s the goal? More than anything, to give a soccer team in Kansas City its own identity. According to the KC Star, “Heineman said the time is right for OnGoal to take its biggest step yet toward its overreaching goal of re-branding the team and making it a regional and national powerhouse in American soccer.” Could the Wizards ever be that team? We’ll never know. As a Kansas City soccer fan, seeing the Wizards go breaks my heart. Not only is all my Wizards garb now garage sale fodder, but the momentum of the Wizards brand name is dead. You may scoff, but brand names are the blood and guts of any successful enterprise. It’s why you drink Coke, not RC. It’s why you watch the NFL, not the UFL. It’s why you read the View instead of the daily bulletin on the school website. But with all that being said, the change is a step in the right direction. Am I a fan of the new name? Not really. But am I happy to see that the owners of Sporting, OnGoal LLC, want to make the Kansas City franchise a dynasty? Of course. These steps are the steps that are taken to produce successful businesses, teams, people, etc. The want to be more than a mid-market mediocre team is a positive sign. A sign of growth. Just a few miles down the road in Independence, the home of the Missouri Comets, the soccer winds are moving in a

different direction. The Comets of the past lived a life of turbulence: born into glory, swiftly followed by demise into oblivion. At one point, believe it or not, the Comets were cool. In 1983, the average attendance at a Comets game in Kemper Arena was 15,786. The average attendance in 2005, though, was a paltry 4,789, barely enough to speckle the seats at Kemper. I remember those games. To the untrained eye, in the stands it looked like the Ice Capades were in town. Now, though, the Comets are back (by popular demand, team officials say). But the Comets’ business model differed significantly from the one OnGoal used for the Wizards/Sporting KC. While the Wizards went for a new look, the Comets are hoping that the old way of doing things will be the way to go. Why not? The logo, the music, the atmosphere -- the Comets are bringing back everything that made them successful three decades ago. It’s about recycling. About going with what works. About rebirth. Here’s the beauty of the situation: the Comets and Sporting KC -- two teams who play the same sport and call the same city home -- are trying, at the same time, to become more than just a byline in the daily edition of the Star. These two teams, who in so many ways are alike, are trying to achieve the same thing by doing the exact opposite. One is starting fresh. The other is reviving the old success story. Both are just a couple of breaks from being exactly what they want to be.

ju

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bit Push and Pull

by danny jones

OUTSIDE

+ p a g e f i f t e e n .

Soccer is moving in both directions in Kansas City. The common denominator? Growth

Years active:

Leagues:

Championships:

Home Stadiums:

1996 (as Kansas City Wiz), 1997-2009 (as Kansas City Wizards), 2010

Major Indoor Soccer League (MISL), National

Professional Soccer League (NPSL)

Major League Soccer (MLS)

1996, 2000Kemper Arena (1981-2005), Independence

..........Events

...Center (2010)

2000 Arrowhead Stadium (1996-2005), Community

America Ballpark (2006-2009), KC Soccer .............................................Stadium (2010)

1981-1991, 1992-2001 (as Kansas City Attack),

2001-2005, 2010

COMETS SPORTING KC

>>read a BCS Bowl preview at phsview.com

“I’ve heard of it, but I have no idea what it is.” --Sam Najorney, senior

“I don’t know anything about it.” --Xavier Salas, sophomore

“What is that?” --Emily Orvos, sophomore

beyond the treeby kar l ie bischoff

It is Christmas time again. Looking forward to spending time with family, putting up the Christmas tree, sipping hot chocolate, sticking a carrot nose on the snowman and waking up to a tree surrounded by gifts. This is all a part of the Christmas season, but some families have other special traditions they look forward to every year. “Traditions are give us something to look forward to,” Sheridan Mottet, freshmen, said. Rachel Schisler, sophomore, said one of her family traditions has been around since before she was born. Every year, she has Christmas with her family at her grandma’s house in Kansas City, Mo. Schisler also has a tradition that she and her brother make an igloo in their front yard. “We make it a competition with our neighbors. We try to make it as big as possible,” Schisler said. When Schisler gets older, she said she wants to start her own tradition and hang out with her brother, living close to her family. “I think that traditions are important, and it shows love in the family,” said Schisler. Mike Nelson, social studies, said in his

family, he has a Christmas Eve dinner, early morning present opening with the kids and and a Christmas dinner. In addition, every year when Nelson’s family puts up the tree, he has his son put the star on top. “These traditions have been passed down and added, chosen for the kids,” Nelson said. A new tradition that Nelson would like to start is having his entire family for Christmas. Mottet travels to Iowa to see her family every year. This is a tradition that was started before Mottet was born. Mottet and her family also go to church on Christmas morning. “I would like to go see Christmas lights one night with my family,” Mottet said. No matter the tradition, the family makes it last. “Family traditions are important, because they make good memories, and it’s things to do with the kids,” Nelson said.

Tradition, tradition!Family traditions emerge at Christmas time

Mike Nelson observes his son Chris Nelson (freshman) as he puts the star on the tree. photo by a ly ca l l

by a l y c a l l

+ p a g e s i x t e e n .

SOUTH GETS ALL INCLUSIVE DURING WINTER BREAK

holidayhoopla A special eight-page section devoted to winter and holidays, written and designed by the Fall 2010 Journalism class.

>>Driving through the neighborhood

with the heat on and Christmas carols playing, you look at all the

houses with their wreaths and Christmas lights. You see snowmen in the yards, huge inflatable Santas and, through some windows, you can see the big green Christmas trees with its red ornaments and garland. But some students will be ditching the trees this year. Jamie Manning, senior, is one of these students. “Christmas is overrated,” she said. “It’s not a real holiday. It’s just giving presents.” Manning celebrated Christmas for several years until she and her mom switched to Buddhism, according to Manning. They do not participate in any of the Christmas traditions, but she said they have dinner together and “a lot to be thankful for.” Ramsha Babar, freshman, has grown up around Christmas traditions but her family

has always celebrated Eid. Eid has two different parts, said Babar. The first is a three-day celebration with feasts following Ramadan and the second is the sacrifice of an animal, giving the three different parts to friends, family and the needy. Unlike Manning, Babar still gets into the Christmas spirit. “I’ve grown up around it. I sing Christmas carols and I put lights on my house. I just don’t do the tree or the whole Jesus died on the cross thing,” said Babar. However, Eid does not fall during South’s winter break this year. “It follows the Lunar calendar, so it goes back ten days every year. A couple of years ago, it was during Christmas break and that was great,” said Babar. Like Babar, senior Abi Gullapalli’s traditional holiday does not fall over break. Gullapalli celebrates Diwali, “festival of lights.” The festivities included shooting off fireworks and took place about a month

ago, according to Gullapalli. Diwali is a five day celebration to seek blessings from the Goddess of Wealth, and on the third day, they light fireworks and participate in celebrations, according to diwalifestival.org. While Gullapalli’s friends celebrate Christmas, he enjoys his long break. “I mean, I wish I got presents, but I don’t,” he said. According to Ashley Timmerman, sophomore, awareness of fellow South classmates and their holiday traditions is important. Because of this, many schools like South call the break between first and second semester “winter break” to appear inclusive of all religions. “Obviously, most people at our school celebrate Christmas,” said Blake Youngdahl, freshman. “But we call it winter break or holiday break for a reason.”

What do you know about diwali?

>>read about other holiday traditions at phsview.com

Just imagine: a 16-hour car ride to the middle of nowhere, your parents singing along to endless hours of

Christmas music and your younger brother won’t stop poking you in the back of the head. Traveling any time of year is a pain, but going anywhere during Christmas can be even more difficult. Many families have the advantage of having their celebrations at their own homes, while some families have to travel cross country just to spend a few days and some quality time together. Sara Marselli, sophomore, travels to Tampa, Fla. every other holiday season, alternating with Mexico. “We either take a plane or drive,” Marselli said. “If we drive, it takes three days to get there.” Marselli and her family plan to buy the presents for her family once they arrive in Tampa this year. “I would rather go to Florida,” Marselli admitted, ”because it’s warm and it’s not what we have right now.” Savanna Chojnacki, sophomore, usually starts out at 3 a.m. to head up to

Roger City, Michigan every Christmas. The ride lasts about 16 hours over two days, but she brings along books, DVDs and her iPod. “I only get to see my family twice a year,” Chojnacki said. “So, it makes it special.” Chojnacki’s family sends all their presents before they drive there for the holidays. Jessica Hinderliter, sophomore, has the chance to stay home and celebrate the holidays with her loved ones. “I don’t have to travel anywhere,” Hinderliter said. “But, I do have to clean everything.” The holidays are a time to get together with family, whether you have to drive for hours or simply walk to the living room. “Christmas isn’t all about presents,” Chojnacki said. “To me, it’s all about being surrounded by the people who love me and I love them.”

by kyn d a l l m i l lson the

by m a l l or y m oxham and maddie henning

Roadstudents travel long distances

“They can look, but they can’t

touch.”

to celebrate the holidays

top3items for a long road trip

iPod

Touc

h

e-RE

ADER

DVD

PLAY

ER

>>log on to phsview.com for driving tips in winter weather

holiday hold up New TSA security system angers citizens across America

midwest airports with scanners KCI CHI MSP DFW + p a g e s e v e n t e e n .

What is keeping you from traveling this holiday season? Is it the danger of flying, or the cost? Many people would say that its the new TSA security system that keeps them grounded when they should be flying. According to MSNBC news, this new system of body scans and pat downs is merely to keep people safe and terrorists away, but is it worth the privacy risk? “It won’t stop me from flying, but it is an in-vasion of privacy,” said freshman Allie Murphy, who will be flying to Mexico over winter break. For those frequent fliers out there, the new security system is not going to bring them down during winter break; however, it is caus-ing some anger throughout the community. “I don’t want someone I don’t know touching me. It’s a violation of personal space,” said Murphy. Most people would think that after inspecting the pictures of the body scans, then they would be deleted, but that is not the case. The Huffington Post recently did a story about how images were leaked to the public and Americans world-wide are outraged.

“What if one of the pictures was me? I would be so mad,” said freshman Nichole Kluge, who recently traveled to New York. According to the Elm Student Newspaper of Washington College, TSA scanners now show a full flesh body scans because of the new machine advancements. The full body scans are not the only option fliers have to chose from. If someone does not like the idea of being seen naked or is under the age of 12, he or she can get patted down. This “pat down” is more often preferred, even though they do touch everywhere. Both procedures continue to anger all ages. “I’m 14 years old, I don’t have a weapon,” said freshman Robert Pollan. TSA has caused this uproar throughout America, but some try to look at it as positive change. “As long as I’m safe, the TSA scans don’t bother me,” said senior Emery Hermansen. Children, teens and even the elderly have to endure these awk-ward and uncomfortable procedures. According to some fliers, TSA makes the aiport something to have nightmares about. Senior Kendrick White is traveling to Las Vegas over break and has one message for TSA officials. “They can look,” he said, “but they can’t touch.”

>>read more about the controversy with aiport scanners at phsview.com

“I’ve heard of it, but I have no idea what it is.” --Sam Najorney, senior

“I don’t know anything about it.” --Xavier Salas, sophomore

“What is that?” --Emily Orvos, sophomore

beyond the treeby kar l ie bischoff

It is Christmas time again. Looking forward to spending time with family, putting up the Christmas tree, sipping hot chocolate, sticking a carrot nose on the snowman and waking up to a tree surrounded by gifts. This is all a part of the Christmas season, but some families have other special traditions they look forward to every year. “Traditions are give us something to look forward to,” Sheridan Mottet, freshmen, said. Rachel Schisler, sophomore, said one of her family traditions has been around since before she was born. Every year, she has Christmas with her family at her grandma’s house in Kansas City, Mo. Schisler also has a tradition that she and her brother make an igloo in their front yard. “We make it a competition with our neighbors. We try to make it as big as possible,” Schisler said. When Schisler gets older, she said she wants to start her own tradition and hang out with her brother, living close to her family. “I think that traditions are important, and it shows love in the family,” said Schisler. Mike Nelson, social studies, said in his

family, he has a Christmas Eve dinner, early morning present opening with the kids and and a Christmas dinner. In addition, every year when Nelson’s family puts up the tree, he has his son put the star on top. “These traditions have been passed down and added, chosen for the kids,” Nelson said. A new tradition that Nelson would like to start is having his entire family for Christmas. Mottet travels to Iowa to see her family every year. This is a tradition that was started before Mottet was born. Mottet and her family also go to church on Christmas morning. “I would like to go see Christmas lights one night with my family,” Mottet said. No matter the tradition, the family makes it last. “Family traditions are important, because they make good memories, and it’s things to do with the kids,” Nelson said.

Tradition, tradition!Family traditions emerge at Christmas time

Mike Nelson observes his son Chris Nelson (freshman) as he puts the star on the tree. photo by a ly ca l l

by a ly ca l l

+ p a g e s i x t e e n .

SOUTH GETS ALL INCLUSIVE DURING WINTER BREAK

holidayhoopla A special eight-page section devoted to winter and holidays, written and designed by the Fall 2010 Journalism class.

>>

Driving through the neighborhood with the heat on and Christmas carols playing, you look at all the

houses with their wreaths and Christmas lights. You see snowmen in the yards, huge inflatable Santas and, through some windows, you can see the big green Christmas trees with its red ornaments and garland. But some students will be ditching the trees this year. Jamie Manning, senior, is one of these students. “Christmas is overrated,” she said. “It’s not a real holiday. It’s just giving presents.” Manning celebrated Christmas for several years until she and her mom switched to Buddhism, according to Manning. They do not participate in any of the Christmas traditions, but she said they have dinner together and “a lot to be thankful for.” Ramsha Babar, freshman, has grown up around Christmas traditions but her family

has always celebrated Eid. Eid has two different parts, said Babar. The first is a three-day celebration with feasts following Ramadan and the second is the sacrifice of an animal, giving the three different parts to friends, family and the needy. Unlike Manning, Babar still gets into the Christmas spirit. “I’ve grown up around it. I sing Christmas carols and I put lights on my house. I just don’t do the tree or the whole Jesus died on the cross thing,” said Babar. However, Eid does not fall during South’s winter break this year. “It follows the Lunar calendar, so it goes back ten days every year. A couple of years ago, it was during Christmas break and that was great,” said Babar. Like Babar, senior Abi Gullapalli’s traditional holiday does not fall over break. Gullapalli celebrates Diwali, “festival of lights.” The festivities included shooting off fireworks and took place about a month

ago, according to Gullapalli. Diwali is a five day celebration to seek blessings from the Goddess of Wealth, and on the third day, they light fireworks and participate in celebrations, according to diwalifestival.org. While Gullapalli’s friends celebrate Christmas, he enjoys his long break. “I mean, I wish I got presents, but I don’t,” he said. According to Ashley Timmerman, sophomore, awareness of fellow South classmates and their holiday traditions is important. Because of this, many schools like South call the break between first and second semester “winter break” to appear inclusive of all religions. “Obviously, most people at our school celebrate Christmas,” said Blake Youngdahl, freshman. “But we call it winter break or holiday break for a reason.”

What do you know about diwali?

>>read about other holiday traditions at phsview.com

by aurora el ler

the holiday films that help students know what time of year it is

Strolling down the long sidewalks, stores surrounding you in every direction, then

it happens, the lights turn on--those bright colorful lights at the Plaza that give you the Christmas feeling as soon as you set your gaze upon them. There are many Christmas lightings in KC, but there are two, however, that catch the eye of tourists and locals every year. The Downtown Marriott and Country Club Plaza put their lights

up for simplicity and intricate designs and those places every holiday season. “The Plaza is a tradition but the lights at the Marriott are cooler because of the different patterns,” said senior Austen Ortiz. Many people arrive at the Plaza around 6 p.m. on Thanksgiving night so they can witness the breathtaking event of the annual “Plaza Lighting.” People gather with their families and talk cheerfully and wait until 7:30 p.m when the switch is flipped and the lights brighten the stores and streets. The Plaza has mainly yellow lights embroidering the tops of all stores but they throw in accents of red and green in their taller more extravagant buildings. The traditional lighting of the Plaza provides entertainment and fun for everyone. It always starts the day of Thanksgiving and has had the same decor and style as it did in years before. “I usually go down to the Plaza with my family and watch the lights at least once

during the winter,” said Ortiz. Another tradition is in the downtown area where one can watch the moving holiday-themed Christmas lights that the Marriott installs on all 22 floors of the massive hotel, visible from the surrounding highways. The Marriott lights include everything from a swinging Christmas bell to stockings that sway from left to right in perfect pattern. “I really like the lights at the Marriott,” said senior Jake Chambers. “They have a cool design and keep me watching it more.” The Marriott has been doing the Christmas lights for years and continue to do it to attract visitors and bring holiday cheer. “They are both really fun, I go down to the Plaza every year with our family and it is a blast,” said parent Cheryl Powers. Whatever tradition you choose, there is always holiday cheer within the Kansas City area.

KC by zach chr ista l

‘‘257000’’bulbs border the Plaza buildings over 75 miles

‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘’’TRADITIONS THAT LIGHT UP

flicksfestive It’s that time of year again: the holidays. That means hot chocolate, roaring fireplaces, staying in all night watching the snow fall and, of course, favorite festive holiday films. But what exactly are the movies that give everyone that “holiday” feeling? One of the top holiday movies that most people look forward to every year is the 2003 movie “Elf,” starring Will Ferrell. Freshman Amanda Smith said, “I LOVE when Buddy jumps on the Christmas tree trying to put the star on top, but it falls over on him.” “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” is a 1989 classic tale where one man’s patience and Christmas spirit is put to the test when trying to plan the perfect Christmas for his family. Virtually everything bad that could happen happens. Sophomore Cody Shopper said, “I watch this movie every year because it’s hilarious.” Even the not as “popular” movies are loved. Junior Vinika McIntosh’s all-time favorite is the Disney original featuring Tim Allen, “The Santa Clause.” “The little workers with pointy ears that walk around and fly make my day,” she said. “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” is a tale that has been around for years. The 2000 remake,

starring Jim Carey as the Grinch, recaptured the hearts of its past, along with new viewers. In this story, a hostile, bullied kid who happens to have green skin and green fur, hikes up a mountain to get away from the people who constantly hurt him. One year, he decides to ruin Whoville’s most beloved holiday, Christmas. He dresses up as Santa and steals the whole town’s presents. In doing this, he learns the true meaning of Christmas. Freshman Rob Pollan said, “I’ve always loved this movie because it’s not every day you see a hairy green dude who says funny rhymes and is mean to people.” According to moviefone blogs, the number one holiday movie of all time is the 1983 film “A Christmas Story.” Ralphie, a young boy growing up in the 40’s will do anything to get his hands on a Red Rider BB gun. When he shares his dream with his mother, his teacher, and even the Santa at the mall, they all laugh and give a stern no. This is the movie where the famous quote, “No, you’ll shoot your eye out,” comes from. TBS even does a 24-hour back-to-back special of this movie on Christmas Day No matter what movie you watch, who you watch it with or where you watch it, it is sure to bring out that inner holiday feeling inside you.

when to watchyour favorite

flick

TBS

Dec

. 24

8 p.m

.

USA

Dec. 25 8 p.m

.

+ p a g e e i g h t e e n . >>go to phsview.com to read about the holiday music that accompanies the lights

bulbs border the Plaza buildings over 75 miles

B e a t s B r o ’ s

When I was younger, I would always make huge lists of things I wanted my parents and family to get me for the holidays. As

I get older, my list becomes smaller and smaller --not out of sensibility or knowing my parents couldn’t buy me all the things I have an inkling of a want for, but just because I found I didn’t want as many different things. You’ve probably noticed how you get fewer and fewer gifts as you get older, but have you ever thought of how they change? Girls go from wanting a $15.99 Barbie at 5, to wanting a new Blackberry in high school. Boys go from wanting an $11.95 G.I Joe, to new cars at 16. You may get less and less each year, yet your parents are spending more and more. As you get older, your needs become more important to you. You’re probably wanting more “big ticket” items and more that you need instead of just want. You’re gifts mature with you. “I used to ask for cheap toys and stuff, but now I want more valuble things,” said freshman Austin Miller. You start to understand that the holidays aren’t totally about gifts. Holidays are about family and spending time with them. “Around the holidays I look forward to getting gifts, but it isn’t the most important to me anymore,” said sophomore Erin Lysell. Plus, most of the time you know what your parents are getting you anyway, because you have to show them exactly what it is you

want. Face it, our parents aren’t the most technologically advanced people on Earth. My dad still asks me how to get to the Internet, and doesn’t understand what the address bar is. In the four year span of your high school career, your list will change. As a freshman, you’ll want things like a new phone, clothes and probably some new gadget that just released like a new generation of the iPod. Sophomores, you’re probably asking for a car, car insurance and money. Juniors and Seniors? Necessity items, items for college like dorm room furniture and a new laptop. Then, of course, cash. Nobody ever grows out of wanting cash that they can spend on anything they want. It’s the go-to gift for anyone. Even after you graduate high school, your wish list will continue to change. As you become an

adult, you’ll probably start asking for things you can use every day. But this doesn’t mean that when you’re buying for an adult you have to go with everyday items. Get creative, even if they are just asking for socks and a toothbrush. Think of how you’ve changed in the last four years, now compare that to what you’ve gotten for your gifts. They’ve both probably changed in a lot of the same ways. As you mature and change as a person, the presents you get reflect that.

THE EVOLUTION OFby shelby cooper

"I used to ask for cheap toys and stuff, but now I want more valuble things."

GIFTS

for

photo by alec russell

The online magazine pcmag.com calls them “not only expensive, but also impressive.” Critics at geeksugar.com said, “if you’re always on the go, these babies will be your BFF.” But for now, let’s just call them this year’s must-have gift for the ‘bro’ in your life. The Beats by Dre headphones were first

released in July 2008. Legendary rap artist and producer Dr. Dre teamed up with fellow music powerhouse Monster, formerly known as Monster Cables. “I was the first person to have them at our school,” said junior Alex Martin. “I feel like I started the trend.” All of the headphones from the “Beats

by Dre” series deliver an experience similar to what you would get in a studio environment. According to the packaging, Dr. Dre says that the beats series “focus mainly on bass capability and music clarity.” “They block out a lot of outside noises, so it’s easy to stay concentrated,” said senior Jason Thetford. The Beats are available in several different models that range from the $100 ear buds for on-the-go use, to the latest addition, the $450 “Beats Pro” offering professional quality. The “Beats Pro,” although

expensive, are said to be on every D.J.’s must-have wish list. Not only do they deliver an unbeatable quality, but also the ability to spin either ear cup off of the listener’s ear while still keeping them on the other ear and playing through the other side. The purpose of this feature is to give a DJ the ability to focus on his or her music while hearing the crowd at the same time. Walking the halls of South, it is hard to miss the growing number of kids wearing the latest symbol of Bro-hood that the “Beats by Dre” headphones have become. The $180 “Beats Solo” and $350 “Beats Studio” are the most popular styles to students, mainly due to the affordable prices while still delivering the deep bass punch and superior quality that the Beats series have become known for. Senior Christian Hildebrant said other than a new car, his “Studio Beats” were his favorite birthday present because of how much he can focus and shake any nerves before each basketball game. From athlete to academic and everywhere in between, a pair of “Beats by Dre” is the perfect gift for any Bro.

by jamie b road dus

Gift Ideas For That SPECIALBro

$20.006 pack athletic high socks

dicks sporting goods

$54.96

Call of Duty Black Ops for XBOX 360

amazon.com

F REE

Turkey & cheddar sandwich on wheat

from your GF

+ p a g e n i n e t e e n .

photo by alec russell

Shining the L ight on

Christmas is just around the corner and everyone is jumping up and down for it. “I want this, mom!” “NO! This!” “Or this!” Seeing the stressfulness here yet? Well, it may not seem like that’s a good enough reason to be stressed, but to many parents and teenagers, it is. “I don’t even ask for presents any more,” said senior Ryan Sprague. “I can see how much it stresses out my mom.” As if the lives of South students were not already stressful, Christmas time rolls around; that means finals, end projects and meeting once again with those akward family members. Though, for most of South’s students, the holidays are times to relax during winter break. “During break I like to chill and forget about the stress of homework and running a club,” said junior Megan Skyrme, who runs the Young Authors Club, “Even though the kids in my club are pretty awesome, it still stresses me out a bit.” Being the president of a club can be stressful, even more so when added to studying for finals and doing major projects and homework assignments. For others, like the students who take classes online, break is just like being at

school. South students who take online classes are still given assignments to complete and they pile up if they do not do them over break. This could cause them to fail or get a lower grade, which is stressful for those students. “I’m just worried about passing my class so I can graduate,” said senior Daniel Willis. Most South students and faculty have to cope with stress; exersizing and doing things you enjoy are good coping mechanisms. Jennifer Rogers, sophomore, has her own way of dealing with her stress. “When I stress out I go for a walk or read, “ said Rogers. Others have additional coping mechanisms of their own; Sprague said he likes to go out in his backyard and juggle when he is stressed, Willis said he tends to whistle or hum to try to forget about his problems, and Skyrme uses the holidays to kick back and rid herself of the stresses of everyday life. So, instead of stressing out this holiday season, spend your time losing those pesky Holiday Blues.

H o l i d ay BluesFighting back against stress during the holiday season

by maxx beshears & e l ie quiroz

skip the stress

You are at home on the couch. The whole house is dark, considering the overcast

weather and the fact that you are too lazy to get up and turn on a light. The only light is the flicker of the TV. The cold keeps you from emerging from that refuge of blankets you created as soon as you woke up. You find yourself watching some ''Judge Judy'' knock-off because that is the only thing on daytime television. For many, this may seem like an ordinary winter break day, but to others it is more serious. Signs like this could very well be the affects of Seasonal Affective Disorder, otherwise known as SAD. Occurring during the cold, gloomy winter months, SAD can include the classic signs of depression, including loss of interest, anxiety and weight gain. It is brought upon by the lack of vitamin D in the sun and the snow fall. Brad Peck, psychology, said even he gets into a “feel sorry for yourself mood” and begins to do “couch potato things” during the winter. Not everyone gets the same feelings.

.....

Junior Jenna Allison said, “I love winter, I love that feeling of being cozy. However, some people do not spend their cold days feeling “cozy,” they instead stay indoors wishing the winter away. Sophomore Hanna Walsh said she is counting down the winters she has left until she is able to move to a warmer cilmate. One of the biggest problems with SAD is the lack of awareness. Some people

mistake it for the “winter blues.” “Seasonal Affective Disorder should be taken a lot more seriously,” said Allison. “It is a form of depression.” One of the most dreaded parts of winter for Walsh is the attempt to keep warm. “This school should have heat lamps,” said Walsh. “Like at AMC.” In fact, one of the treatments for SAD is the use of light therapy. According to lighttherapy.com, this is a common lamp that emits vitamin D and can be used in a home. However, not everyone's case is extreme enough to go out and buy a vitamin D lamp. There are also other ways to treat this seasonal illness. Allison said a way to make her happy during the winter months is catching up with friends. “Be Proactive,” said Peck. “That is the best way to get through the winter.” Peck explained further that by eating healthy, exercising and doing something productive, your winter months can be a little lighter.

by raelyn morr is & breann e cowley SAD For some South students. when Winter

arrives, depression comes with it

+ p a g e t w e n t y.

12

9

78

65

43

Pace yourself and account for relaxation time. Make a list and prioritize all important activities. Be realistic. Look forward to the future. Volunteer to help out with others. Do fun holiday activites with friends and family. Celebrate in new ways, keep it fresh and exciting. Make new friends and hang with the old ones. Recharge your batteries and take time to enjoy yourself.

Shining the L ight on

Christmas is just around the corner and everyone is jumping up and down for it. “I want this, mom!” “NO! This!” “Or this!” Seeing the stressfulness here yet? Well, it may not seem like that’s a good enough reason to be stressed, but to many parents and teenagers, it is. “I don’t even ask for presents any more,” said senior Ryan Sprague. “I can see how much it stresses out my mom.” As if the lives of South students were not already stressful, Christmas time rolls around; that means finals, end projects and meeting once again with those akward family members. Though, for most of South’s students, the holidays are times to relax during winter break. “During break I like to chill and forget about the stress of homework and running a club,” said junior Megan Skyrme, who runs the Young Authors Club, “Even though the kids in my club are pretty awesome, it still stresses me out a bit.” Being the president of a club can be stressful, even more so when added to studying for finals and doing major projects and homework assignments. For others, like the students who take classes online, break is just like being at

school. South students who take online classes are still given assignments to complete and they pile up if they do not do them over break. This could cause them to fail or get a lower grade, which is stressful for those students. “I’m just worried about passing my class so I can graduate,” said senior Daniel Willis. Most South students and faculty have to cope with stress; exersizing and doing things you enjoy are good coping mechanisms. Jennifer Rogers, sophomore, has her own way of dealing with her stress. “When I stress out I go for a walk or read, “ said Rogers. Others have additional coping mechanisms of their own; Sprague said he likes to go out in his backyard and juggle when he is stressed, Willis said he tends to whistle or hum to try to forget about his problems, and Skyrme uses the holidays to kick back and rid herself of the stresses of everyday life. So, instead of stressing out this holiday season, spend your time losing those pesky Holiday Blues.

H o l i d ay BluesFighting back against stress during the holiday season

by maxx beshears & e l ie quiroz

skip the stress

You are at home on the couch. The whole house is dark, considering the overcast

weather and the fact that you are too lazy to get up and turn on a light. The only light is the flicker of the TV. The cold keeps you from emerging from that refuge of blankets you created as soon as you woke up. You find yourself watching some ''Judge Judy'' knock-off because that is the only thing on daytime television. For many, this may seem like an ordinary winter break day, but to others it is more serious. Signs like this could very well be the affects of Seasonal Affective Disorder, otherwise known as SAD. Occurring during the cold, gloomy winter months, SAD can include the classic signs of depression, including loss of interest, anxiety and weight gain. It is brought upon by the lack of vitamin D in the sun and the snow fall. Brad Peck, psychology, said even he gets into a “feel sorry for yourself mood” and begins to do “couch potato things” during the winter. Not everyone gets the same feelings.

.....

Junior Jenna Allison said, “I love winter, I love that feeling of being cozy. However, some people do not spend their cold days feeling “cozy,” they instead stay indoors wishing the winter away. Sophomore Hanna Walsh said she is counting down the winters she has left until she is able to move to a warmer cilmate. One of the biggest problems with SAD is the lack of awareness. Some people

mistake it for the “winter blues.” “Seasonal Affective Disorder should be taken a lot more seriously,” said Allison. “It is a form of depression.” One of the most dreaded parts of winter for Walsh is the attempt to keep warm. “This school should have heat lamps,” said Walsh. “Like at AMC.” In fact, one of the treatments for SAD is the use of light therapy. According to lighttherapy.com, this is a common lamp that emits vitamin D and can be used in a home. However, not everyone's case is extreme enough to go out and buy a vitamin D lamp. There are also other ways to treat this seasonal illness. Allison said a way to make her happy during the winter months is catching up with friends. “Be Proactive,” said Peck. “That is the best way to get through the winter.” Peck explained further that by eating healthy, exercising and doing something productive, your winter months can be a little lighter.

by raelyn morr is & breanne cowley SAD For some South students. when Winter

arrives, depression comes with it

+ p a g e t w e n t y.

12

9

78

65

43

Pace yourself and account for relaxation time. Make a list and prioritize all important activities. Be realistic. Look forward to the future. Volunteer to help out with others. Do fun holiday activites with friends and family. Celebrate in new ways, keep it fresh and exciting. Make new friends and hang with the old ones. Recharge your batteries and take time to enjoy yourself.

The many factors that contributed to the Chiefs’ surprising success this season

The last three seasons for the Kansas City Chiefs can be summed up in one word: terrible. The team went through many players, a general manager and even a coaching change. Sundays at Arrowhead in the early 2000s were filled with wins, high-scoring offense and tough defense, and during that time, Arrowhead was named the loudest stadium in the NFL by ESPN.com. But from 2006 to 2009, the stadium was quiet as a mouse. “It is hard to go root for a team that doesn’t win,” said James Bowlin, senior. That is exactly what the Chiefs did during that period of time. The team took a big hit during the 2006-2009 seasons, winning only 10 games. But mostly the team took a hit in ticket sales. “I would never go to a Chiefs game back then. The Chiefs were horrible,” said Hannah Turner, junior. Last season, ticket sales hit rock bottom for a bone chilling Dec. 20 game against the Cleveland Browns. The game was blacked out over the Kansas City area, meaning the game was not shown on T.V. The game wasn’t on T.V because the team failed to sell majority of its tickets. With the blackout last season, the Chiefs had to start winning

this season or they would lose millions. The team might have lost players, advertisers and loyal season ticket holders. The Chiefs have answered the call, though, turning the franchise around by starting this season 8-4. “With the team winning so far this season, they are making more money. More people want to go to the games,” said Turner. With the recent success, the team is drawing the size of crowds that they drew in the early 2000s. “The team winning is drawing a younger crowd and a traveling crowd,” said Meredith Williams, foreign language. The Chiefs are restoring the home field advantage that they have been used to by winning all of their home games so far this season. They have sold out every home game this season and no game has been blacked out. Thanks to their winning record, you can expect to see the 2010 Chiefs every Sunday on television.

53,315dec. 20, 2009

From Blacked Out to

67,267dec. 5, 2010

rolling in the dough

zero toby jod i hal l

K ansas C ity Chiefs Past Season Results2007200820092010

4-122-144-12

8-4 (so far)

3rd in AFC West (out of 4)4th4th1st

+ p a g e t w e n t y - o n e .

a yearmakes*attendance numbers from espn.com

The Kansas City Chiefs turn-around season brings fans back to Arrowhead

by derek yeager

what a difference

“This is how I visualize

Arrowhead.”

Everyone loves comeback stories --the underdogs, the upsets, the things all great sports movies are made of. However, in reality, teams don’t just get better overnight. The Kansas City Chiefs went from a two-year slump to being number one in the AFC West, 13 weeks into the season. Kansas City fans have had the opportunity to see the Chiefs grow into a more mature and better performing football team. The factors that play into the Chiefs’ success vary anywhere from a new coaching staff to the support of the fans at Arrowhead. “The Chiefs’ new coaching staff has definitely had a role in their success, especially Romeo Crennel,” said Sam Nagorney, senior. Crennel is the team’s new defensive coordinator. In the past, Crennel has coached in six super bowls, winning five. He was a head coach for the Cleveland Browns before joining the Chiefs staff prior to the 2010 season. Crennel is not the only new face in the Chiefs staff. The team’s new offensive coordinator, Charlie Weis, has assisted the New England Patriots in three super bowl

victories and was the head coach at the University of Notre Dame until he joined the Chiefs staff this season. In addition, Todd Haley, the Chiefs’ second-year head coach, has the Chiefs run padded practices more then any other team in the league, and it has paid off. Kansas City’s rookies are also a big part of the team’s success. One in particular, Dexter McCluster, has been breaking records since his first day. “McCluster is so fun to watch, he has really helped the Chiefs,” said Maddy Vande Polder, sophomore. McCluster broke the Chiefs’ franchise record for the longest punt return in his first game. He ran for an incredible 94 yards, beating former Chief Dante Hall’s record by one yard. The Chiefs captains have also helped

the team mature. According to the Chiefs’ website, Haley gives them a lot of power in the practices and it shows on the field. “You can tell the Chiefs have really grown up as a team,” said Kevin Briody, sophomore. Mike Vrable returned this year as a key captain and continues to lead the Chiefs’ defense. Vrable has contributed 36 tackles so far this season. The last and potentially most crucial part of the Chiefs’ success is the crowd intensity at home. “The noise at Arrowhead contributes to their home wins a lot. It makes it harder for the other teams to hear plays,” said Nagorney. The Chiefs are at their best at home, undefeated at Arrowhead this season. The motivation a team gets from their home crowd is crucial for overall success. In week eight, Kansas City was able to pull off an overtime victory against Buffalo. Todd Haley thanked the fans. “This is how I visualize Arrowhead,” Haley told Sports Illustrated. “It’s because of those fans out there.” Besides, what’s a football team without fans anyway?

The majority of South students will never have the experience of living unsheltered through the the winter season; however, everyone has the opportunity to help someone that does. “[Many people] don’t have proper necessities for the harsh winter weather in Kansas City,” said Gabrielle Chamberlin, senior in Environmental Club. That’s where Project Warmth comes in. According to projectwarmthkc.com, the charity was started in 1982 by the Kansas City Star in order to make winter weather more endurable for the less fortunate. The organization partnered with KCTV5’s “Heat for Life” the following year. Project Warmth specifically caters to families with young children or elders. Since its beginning, Project Warmth has collected more than 2,200 tons of coats and over $7.25 million. Environmental Club has taken part in this charity for the past 12 years and club members feel that last year’s drive was a huge success. According to Marcia Umscheid, Environmental Club sponsor, over 500

blankets were collected and the club is hoping to have an even larger turnout this year. The club is able to collect both blankets and coats, but typically focus more on promoting blankets. “Blankets are easier for kids to go out and get,” Umscheid said. She plans to bring fabric to an upcoming meeting so that the Environmental Club will be able to make blankets to donate. Students in Environmental Club also had the opportunity to help distribute items collected through Project Warmth to those in need on Dec 13. Lauren Blair, junior in Environmental Club, said she encourages her classmates to continue to donate as much as possible. “There’s never enough,” Blair said. “We always want more.” Though donations so far do not near what was collected last year, Environmental Club continues to stay positive and continue promoting what members said they feel is a very worthy charity.

South Cranks the E n v i r o n m e n ta l C lu b p r o m o te s Pr o j ec t W a r m t hby sarah hardin

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by megan mcmullen

Heat

+ p a g e t w e n t y - t w o .

As the winter season approaches, it is more important than ever to help those in need.

To fill that need, there are many opportunities in the community to do so. South has several prominent fundraisers this season, including The Giving Tree and Project Warmth, in order to give back. The Giving Tree, sponsored by STUCO, has arrived in the commons. Decorated with purple slips, the tree contains items needed by South students. Classmates are encouraged to purchase the items, and from there, they head to the Park Hill Clothing Center to support families throughout the winter. “Not only do I love being able to take part in the overall setup, I have purchased and donated to the foundation as well,” said STUCO member Erika Stark, freshman. As an additional opportunity, each freshman tutorial is donating to organizations like Toys for Tots, DECA the Halls and Harvesters. The Environmental Club, along with several tutorial classes, have chosen Project Warmth. “The Freshman Mentor Program is trying to give back to the community in different ways. Our tutorial is

giving back by donating gently used blankets to a homeless shelter downtown,” said Amber Garrett, junior. Along with school sponsored programs, many students are personally volunteering and donating this holiday season.

Freshman Clara Murphy is one example. As a volunteer at the Hillcrest Thrift Store, Murphy helps out by cashiering after school. The store sells donated items to raise funds for Hillcrest Ministries, helping the homeless along with the abused women of Kansas City. “My church introduced me to the opportunity. Now I feel privileged to help others and am so glad that I can,” said Murphy. Volunteering and donating are simple tasks if people know how to do so. This winter, foundations are in

great need of teenage volunteers and donations. Groups such as The Youth Volunteer Corps of Kansas City

and The City Union Mission are currently recruiting volunteers to help reach their ultimate goal--to provide food to the community of Kansas City this holiday season. To make it simpler, they are also accepting donations and various everyday items at many local grocery stores and shelters. Eric Hunter, along with a few of his friends, are examples of recruited volunteers who are donating their time to a local

soup kitchen this winter. “I enjoy serving food to people who I know wouldn’t be able to eat without my help,” said Hunter. Volunteers like Hunter and Murphy are needed in all of these organizations because they cannot do it alone. Any help could make all of the difference this holiday season. Even in the simplest form, volunteers and donations can go a long way.

““I feelPRIVILEGED

to help othersand am

that I can.SO GLAD

>>log on to phsview.com to read about DECA the Halls, another South holiday charity effort

VOLUNTEERyour timeHarvesters

The Giving Tree

Park Hill Clothing Center

The City Union MissionMission: Christmas ends Dec. 22 1100 E 11th St. Kansas City, Mo. cityunionmission.org

Grab an ornament off the tree in the commons

Brand new items to be

delivered to B112 by Dec. 21

Drop food items in the bins at any Price Chopper location

Donate gently used clothing items

8009 N. Atkins 1st and 3rd Tuesday

of each monthCall 816-694-8898

to help sort/distribute

The majority of South students will never have the experience of living unsheltered through the the winter season; however, everyone has the opportunity to help someone that does. “[Many people] don’t have proper necessities for the harsh winter weather in Kansas City,” said Gabrielle Chamberlin, senior in Environmental Club. That’s where Project Warmth comes in. According to projectwarmthkc.com, the charity was started in 1982 by the Kansas City Star in order to make winter weather more endurable for the less fortunate. The organization partnered with KCTV5’s “Heat for Life” the following year. Project Warmth specifically caters to families with young children or elders. Since its beginning, Project Warmth has collected more than 2,200 tons of coats and over $7.25 million. Environmental Club has taken part in this charity for the past 12 years and club members feel that last year’s drive was a huge success. According to Marcia Umscheid, Environmental Club sponsor, over 500

blankets were collected and the club is hoping to have an even larger turnout this year. The club is able to collect both blankets and coats, but typically focus more on promoting blankets. “Blankets are easier for kids to go out and get,” Umscheid said. She plans to bring fabric to an upcoming meeting so that the Environmental Club will be able to make blankets to donate. Students in Environmental Club also had the opportunity to help distribute items collected through Project Warmth to those in need on Dec 13. Lauren Blair, junior in Environmental Club, said she encourages her classmates to continue to donate as much as possible. “There’s never enough,” Blair said. “We always want more.” Though donations so far do not near what was collected last year, Environmental Club continues to stay positive and continue promoting what members said they feel is a very worthy charity.

South Cranks the E n v i r o n m e n ta l C lu b p r o m o te s Pr o j ec t W a r m t hby sarah hardin

devo

tedD

ON

ATO

RS

Sout

h St

uden

ts sp

end

thei

r W

inte

r Br

eak

volu

ntee

ring

and

don

atin

g

by megan mcmullen

Heat

+ p a g e t w e n t y - t w o .

As the winter season approaches, it is more important than ever to help those in need.

To fill that need, there are many opportunities in the community to do so. South has several prominent fundraisers this season, including The Giving Tree and Project Warmth, in order to give back. The Giving Tree, sponsored by STUCO, has arrived in the commons. Decorated with purple slips, the tree contains items needed by South students. Classmates are encouraged to purchase the items, and from there, they head to the Park Hill Clothing Center to support families throughout the winter. “Not only do I love being able to take part in the overall setup, I have purchased and donated to the foundation as well,” said STUCO member Erika Stark, freshman. As an additional opportunity, each freshman tutorial is donating to organizations like Toys for Tots, DECA the Halls and Harvesters. The Environmental Club, along with several tutorial classes, have chosen Project Warmth. “The Freshman Mentor Program is trying to give back to the community in different ways. Our tutorial is

giving back by donating gently used blankets to a homeless shelter downtown,” said Amber Garrett, junior. Along with school sponsored programs, many students are personally volunteering and donating this holiday season.

Freshman Clara Murphy is one example. As a volunteer at the Hillcrest Thrift Store, Murphy helps out by cashiering after school. The store sells donated items to raise funds for Hillcrest Ministries, helping the homeless along with the abused women of Kansas City. “My church introduced me to the opportunity. Now I feel privileged to help others and am so glad that I can,” said Murphy. Volunteering and donating are simple tasks if people know how to do so. This winter, foundations are in

great need of teenage volunteers and donations. Groups such as The Youth Volunteer Corps of Kansas City

and The City Union Mission are currently recruiting volunteers to help reach their ultimate goal--to provide food to the community of Kansas City this holiday season. To make it simpler, they are also accepting donations and various everyday items at many local grocery stores and shelters. Eric Hunter, along with a few of his friends, are examples of recruited volunteers who are donating their time to a local

soup kitchen this winter. “I enjoy serving food to people who I know wouldn’t be able to eat without my help,” said Hunter. Volunteers like Hunter and Murphy are needed in all of these organizations because they cannot do it alone. Any help could make all of the difference this holiday season. Even in the simplest form, volunteers and donations can go a long way.

““I feelPRIVILEGED

to help othersand am

that I can.SO GLAD

>>log on to phsview.com to read about DECA the Halls, another South holiday charity effort

VOLUNTEERyour timeHarvesters

The Giving Tree

Park Hill Clothing Center

The City Union MissionMission: Christmas ends Dec. 22 1100 E 11th St. Kansas City, Mo. cityunionmission.org

Grab an ornament off the tree in the commons

Brand new items to be

delivered to B112 by Dec. 21

Drop food items in the bins at any Price Chopper location

Donate gently used clothing items

8009 N. Atkins 1st and 3rd Tuesday

of each monthCall 816-694-8898

to help sort/distribute

Snow days are the little rays of sunshine peeking through the clouds of the cold monotonous winters. The snow gives people not only the opportunity to break away from routine, but also motivation to trudge through the extra inches and do something out of the ordinary. Despite the many winter wonderland activities, the majority of people tend to sit around the house watching reruns. By the end of the day, they have done nothing and accomplished nothing, other than building a mountain of guilt from a wasted winter day. To the fortunate few who find passion in snow sports, finding something to do comes as no challenge. Snow Creek is consistently packed with kids on snow days looking to hit the gnarly slopes. Senior Austen Ortiz sees snow days as extra opportunities to nail his latest noseblunt 540 backside boardslide. “All I do is shred, shred, shred, no matter what,” said Ortiz, “Got kickers on my mind, gonna go and rail it up.” To others, the popularity of Snow Creek is more of an annoyance than a pleasure. Snow days are the days Kylie Vandeven, sophomore, least anticipates due to her snowboard- crazy friends. “Snow days are especially boring because my best friend snowboards and leaves me at home all alone,” Vandeven said. To those who do not show particular ambition in winter sports, finding a winter activity to make their snow days worthwhile is not so easy. Senior Jordyn Brennecke said she suffers from excessive boredom on her days of school cancellation. “Wake up in the mornin’ feelin like P. Diddy, grab my glasses, and then I realize I have nothing to do!” said Brennecke. Other than snowboarding, or moping around because you can’t snowboard, there are many fun winter

activities that often go unnoticed. As a snack to accompany your hot chocolate, snow ice cream is ideal. The recipe is not only simple, it is unique and delicious. “I once saw Little Bear making snow ice cream, and I have been intrigued by the idea ever since,” said senior Terra Macken. Aside from simply making a snow fort, go the extra mile and make it colorful with food dye. Though ice skating is a commonly known winter activity, it is rarely taken advantage of. Crown Center has a seasonal ice skating ring, perfect for winter days, and open all season. For a fun and new alternative to skiing, try snow shoeing. Just strap a particular type of snow shoe (found at Dick’s Sporting Goods) to regular shoes and glide around in the snow. For those who are feeling brave, pack a tent and sleeping bag and go snow camping. With proper clothing and preparation, it would be a unique way to spend a snow day. The possibilities are endless for finding something to do on the day off. From winter sport fanatics to kids who are simply excited for a day off, no one has an excuse to stay home and watch reruns.

by mar ie hahn beating the snow day blues

by hannah quigley

Tips to keep your dog safe during the winter.

* Bring them in if you can. Even an hour of relief from the cold can be lifesaving.

* Get an insulated dog house with hay or straw in it.

* Make sure the dog's tie out is long enough to reach the dog house, food and water and can’t get tangled on anything.

* Replace frozen water often.

protecting canine lives from winter’s chill

+ p a g e t w e n t y - t h r e e .

Snow Ice cream Recipe*fill freezer bag with 1/2 gallon of snow

*add 6 tbsp of salt to snow*in a ziploc bag mix 1/2 cup half and half, 1 Tbsp sugar and 1/2 tsp vanilla

*zip bag and put inside of bag of snow*zip bigger bag

*squish bag until ice cream is frozen*Remove the smaller bag and enjoy

your frozen treat!

>>log on to phsview.com for even more holiday stories, including christmas music and new year’s eve

Surviving Winter on Four Paws

On cold winter mornings, most people do not even want to go outside because of the frigid air, but what if

you had to live outside 24/7? That can be far more than uncomfortable when temperatures sink to well below zero; it can even be life-threatening. Many dogs that are left chained in the cold with no shelter die from these conditions. Justin Lorigan, freshman said, “Dogs need at the very least a dog house. If not, they should let them inside. If they aren’t comfortable with that, they shouldn’t have a dog.” To combat this problem, there are organizations trying to prevent as many dogs as possible from reaching this fate. In winter weather, they have the most need for donations and volunteers. Senior Emily Quigley’s mom, Kate Quigley, started Chain of Hope, which is a local organization that goes into the urban areas of Kansas City to find chained dogs and help get them shelter, food and water. “I’m proud of my mom, she does good work,” said Emily. Kansas City has an ordinance that says, “No owner or keeper of an animal shall fail to provide the animal with adequate care, adequate food, adequate water, adequate health care and adequate shelter.” It is the responsibility of animal control to ensure that this ordinance is followed, but are they doing that? “Animal Control won’t do anything. We can’t quit because if we don’t do it, no one

else is going to do it. There is no one else in this city doing what we’re doing,” said Kate. So, that leaves Chain of Hope and other organizations to help these animals to survive the winter. “It’s a reality that dogs are dying out here,” said Kate,”and we’re just trying to get to as many as we can.”

28

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27 3130295432 6 7

The green hornet movie opens

18S M T W T F S

26

Last day of finals 1/2 day of

school

1

25

open house

Pick up the View

No School Winter Break

21

8

14131211109 15Grade cards

come out

no school teacher work

day

Season of the

witch movie opens

Mizzou vs

north alabama @ home 7:00 pm

chiefs

vs

raiders noon

Girls home swim

meet vs Kearney/

Sion 3:45 pm

+log on to phsview.com for a full, up-to-the-minute events calendarg2g.

21201817 1916

2726252423

22

28Next Issue of

the View!

The Park Hill South High School newsmagazine, The View, is a part of the educational curriculum of the Park Hill School District. Although The View is a product of the newspaper class, material may be submitted for consideration from students who are not enrolled in the course. Student submissions should meet guidelines set forth in the board policy and regulation IGDB, copies of which are available in all Park Hill School District buildings.

In addition, readers are encouraged to voice their feedback and/or commentary on a timely issue by submitting a Letter to the Editor. Letters should be 250 words or less and must be submitted with the name(s) of the responsible individual(s). Bring letters to room C200 or e-mail Editor in Chief Jesse McGinnesss at [email protected]. Any submissions that exceed the maximum length and/or have issues with grammar, spelling or unprotected speech will be returned to the writer for revision and resubmission.

The View is a member of the National Scholastic Press Association and Missouri Interscholastic Press Association. The View is printed by Osage Graphics in Olathe, Kan.

Reporters

Adviser

Editor-in-ChiefArt DirectorCopy EditorBusiness ManagerWeb EditorPhoto Editor

Jesse McGinnessAlec RussellDanny JonesBen AndersenTiernan EibergerAustin Cosler

Jordan Boucher, Malana Bradford, Cydney Conner, Stephanie Griffith, Marie Hahn, Jon Holden, Danny Kerwin, Ida Patton, Blake Reser, Harrison White and Elizabeth Williams

Megan Hughes

the view staff fall 2010

21 24

No School dr. martin luther

king jr. day

Jv/v Wrestling vs. william chrisman

6:00

Jv/V boys B-ball vs. Fort osage Home

5:30 pm

Ozzy Osbourne at sprint

center 7:30 pm

Kansas vs.iowa state away

8:00 pm

Jv/V girls B-ball vs. Park hill away

5:00 pm