January
How to prepare for finals week By: Heidi Gempeler With final exams approaching quickly, many students are beginning to organize study materials for the three school days of testing, January 16-18, and Link Crew is equipped with several Link Leaders to help students prepare. Senior and former Link Leader Rebecca Wyland always takes final exams seriously. “As an underclassman and before I joined Link Crew, I attended all of their finals week events,” said Wyland. “Working with upperclassmen who had already gone through the experience of finals was very useful for me, and they answered every question I could think of. They are there to help, and anyone who has the opportunity to work with them definitely should do so.” On January 16, the first day of finals, chemistry teacher and Link Crew advisor Jennifer Ehrlich has planned the annual event “Cocoa, Cookies, and Cram” to take place during the homeroom study period, along with fellow advisor and OHS science teacher Tracey Leider. The two have arranged for Link Leaders to be in each freshman homeroom
Oregon High School students learned the hard way this year that schedule changes are not as easy to modify as expected. One student ran into having two study halls one semester and none the next, while a different student ran into just a plain “empty” space. Another common problem was having single block classes offered at the same time. “I had to drop a class because it wasn’t offered certain hours,” Alex Bandt explained. But these problems are not entirely at fault of the administration. Students are the ones who truly influence the master schedule. Although many problems arose, the master schedule is based off of the course sheets handed out in January and is very open to what students want to sign up for. “Oregon High School is probably the most lenient school in the Badger Conference with schedule changing. There are other schools, that once you have your schedule, you can’t make changes to it and that is what you get,” said OHS guidance counselor Janell Thom-
2013
to help with any last minute studying. “Cocoa, Cookies, and Cram is a great opportunity for the freshmen to ask the upperclassmen link leaders for any last minute help or quizzing,” says Ehrlich. Freshman student Kristen Odorico states that not knowing what to expect is her biggest fear of finals week. “I’ve heard from several upperclassmen that some teachers try to cram in a lot of information before finals, which becomes stressful for many students,” she said. Wyland agrees, as she was just as nervous during her freshman year. “Although we took a practice final in middle school, I still had no idea what to expect for the real thing. I was more prepared…but I was still very nervous. Being told that freshman year establishes a strong foundation for the rest of high school made me more motivated to start off with high grades early on in order to have a high grade point average. All I can say is that it can only help you in the long See “Finals,” page 4
Class signup: take it seriously By: Hailey Morey
Schneider. OHS centers the schedule around what students want to take. Problems start to occur when students don’t think about what classes they actually want to sign up for. Students can always change their schedules later, but just remember the classes you sign up for in January are the classes the master schedule is basing itself off of. “Take signing up for classes seriously. Pick out the right classes the first time,” said OHS associate principal Jason Wilhelm. When it comes to March, the master schedule is set and finalized. They have filled the staff and set the budget, so if you can’t make up your mind in January, then be sure to make it up by March.
What’s Inside: • OHS group seeks to change the world (page 2) • Students participate in Special Olympics (page 5) • Tips for staying healthy in the new year (page 7) • Girls’ basketball shoots hoops for a cure (page 9)
• Snow-dependent business When registration rolls around, suffers in mild winters there is no flexibility in changing the hours (page 11) of the classes in the master schedule, and your only hope would be if another person • The Correct Opinion with dropped a class in order to let you in. Ad- Wesley Korpela (page 12) See “Class,” page 5
News
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OHS group seeks to change the world By: Adam Brauns Ever since pre-industrial times, the world has seen a of whites and there was a government-backed system of one degree Celsius increase in the world temperature. With segregation (called apartheid). Across the United States, that increase, half of the arctic ice cap has melted and half colleges got rid of investments from companies that played of the Great Barrier Reef is gone because the oceans are so a role in keeping South Africa in that system. At first, the acidic. The world’s governments have agreed that a 2 degree universities weren’t interested, but after a while they gave Celsius increase would mark in because of the pressure by the the end of the stable climate we students. These actions played a are used to, yet we are poised to large role in ending the apartheid blow past that mark in 15 years. government quickly. “That’s pre 350.org is an organizacisely the same thing we’re doing tion that is trying to fix the clihere,” McGuine states. The dimate crisis of global warming vestment campaigns at universiand how fast it is coming upon ties are already getting attention us. Their goal is to reduce the from sources like Time Magaamount of greenhouse gases rezine. Most of the universities leased into the air. Even a “few have denied the students’ initial degrees in the climate change requests, but as the movement can completely change our grows, the hope is that more and world as we know it” the orgamore will ditch their investments nization states. The organization in fossil fuel companies. Accordhas stationed people in almost ing to the website, the current every part of the world in order campaign has 189 campuses into speak out for the group and volved and the number is growlead the way for people to get ining every day. volved. This group has commit The group at OHS is only McGuine. Photo by Mack Tubridy. ted a lot of time and effort into at the beginning stages of this making a difference in the world and they issue. Their ultimate goal, Gombar believe that they can do it, but only if we work together. states, is to “create a better place to live and spread the word OHS senior Ryan McGuine and some fellow stu- for others to hear.” The group has support from ECOS here at dents are coming together to speak out about this topic. They OHS, and they are teaming up with green clubs from Monoare trying to get the school districts and other facilities to na Grove, Madison East, and Madison West to accomplish divest in the fossil fuel stock in order to shrink the giant their goal. McGuine emphasized that he wants OHS to supcompanies that are very powerful in the United States. port them in their effort and to spread the word. He also rec Fossil Fuel stocks have a huge impact on major com- ommends people who are interested to read Bill McKibben’s panies and facilities all around the world, including many books or check out 350.org for more information. He also here at Oregon. Almost all high schools and universities are states that anyone should talk to him if they are interested affiliated with fossil fuel stocks. These stocks have received in getting involved or want to know more about the climate a large amount of attention lately because of a major cam- crisis. This is only the beginning of a very long process. Feel paign to divest in these stocks. free to get involved and “We are planning on pressuring the school district to join the campaign. sell any investments they might have in the fossil fuel industry. If they don’t have any, we plan on pressuring the other Madison area schools and the Oregon Library to do so. Since we know for a fact that they own investments in them,” McScan this QR code Guine states. They are doing this because they believe that it to visit 350.org! is the right thing to do. This campaign was inspired by a movement in the 1970s, when South Africa was controlled by an elite group
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Meet OHS’ exchange students! By: Hailey Morey
OHS is proud to welcome nine foreign exchange students this year. We hope you enjoyed meeting them and
learning a little more about their countries.
Coming from Yekaterinburg, Russia, Sasha, 15, is now leading a very different lifestyle. Sasha explained that Russian people are more active, as in they are always out and about. She said that they usually don’t stay home a lot and you can see people on the street all the time. Hanging out with friends was her main activity in Russia. She thought the exchange program was interesting, so she decided to try it. She is here through her exchange program, Future Leaders Exchange (FLEX), which provides scholarships for high school students to spend an academic year in the U.S. She had to go through testing, complete a writing portion and went through an interview process. Twenty thousand participated in the application process, but only 243 were chosen. Sasha is also a participant in the exchange program ASSE, which is her placement organization. She is currently looking for a new host family as she is now living with her representative. “Every day here is interesting,” she said. Sasha has joined Art Club at
OHS and enjoys it. She has already traveled to Chicago and Milwaukee where she realized she misses the big city. Sasha also misses her three-year-old sister Alisa. Unlike the other exchange students, food did not make her “miss list.” The food in the U.S. is similar to food in Russia. For Sasha, being a junior at Oregon High School is much different than attending school in Russia. The school system was the biggest change for her. In Sasha’s school, the school day runs from 8:30 a.m. to 1:55 p.m. All eleven years of schooling are attended in one building. The government decides what the students will learn, so changing classes is not an option. “Teachers here are really friendly, they are always willing to help you, and you can talk to them about whatever you want,” she explained. “They are more like friends and they care about you.” In Russia, teachers are not as interested in the students and are not as friendly. Adjusting to our school system was easy for Sasha. She thinks students are friendly and polite here.
Sasha Keehl
Theresa Roesch
Traveling from Weinboehla, moving from Germany to the United Germany, Theresa, 17, got involved States. “School here is easier, and the in the exchange program through her classes are different,” she explained. sister, Elisabeth, now twenty-two years OHS exchange students Theresa, Carlos, “They are more fun.” She really enjoys old, who was an exchange student in and Sasha. Photo by Carissa Goodwick. the class Diversity Studies, as such Illinois six years ago. Theresa got to classes are not offered at her school. visit her sister when she was an exchange student by meet- One of the classes she took in school was Latin and she now ing up with her in New York City. She chose to come to the knows how to translate it. U.S., but had no control over her state placement. She is Theresa’s school starts at 7 a.m. and goes until 2:40 here through the program Center for Cultural Interchange p.m. Their schedule changes every day but repeats weekly. (CCI). Theresa is currently living with the Peterson family Theresa said they also have lockers but nobody really uses and has two new host sisters, Erika, 16, and Isabella, 10. them, and she found that at OHS there is an actual relation Theresa has found that holidays are celebrated more ship between a student and a teacher. She explained that adhere than in Germany. She also loves the lifestyle here. Peo- justing to the school was not difficult. When an exchange ple in Germany seem to be always busy while in the U.S.; student attends her school in Germany, nobody really talks Theresa has noticed that it is a little more relaxed and the to him or her. On the contrary, at OHS, a lot of people she people are very friendly. Although, she has also recognized didn’t know came up and talked to her. that many people here are late to a lot of meetings; this is Theresa mostly misses her family and friends. In one of her pet peeves. In Germany, Theresa is involved in June they will be traveling with her to Las Vegas, Utah, and dancing in a carnival club. While attending OHS though, the Grand Canyon. She will also be traveling to Mexico with she has become involved in Interact and also attends a lot of her host family over spring break. She is looking forward to basketball games to watch her host sister play. seeing another part of the United States and a new country. School has been one of the biggest changes “Exchange” continued on next page
Feature
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“Exchange,” continued from previous page
Carlos Ochoa
Carlos, 17, is a senior here at OHS. He is from Cancún, Q. Roo, Mexico. Carlos started to think about becoming an exchange student in 7th grade. Last year an exchange student from Germany attended his school, which inspired him to do the same. He is here through the Rotary Exchange Program, and only three students out of his Rotary Club were selected. Carlos got to choose five countries in order of where he wanted to attend. His first choice was Australia, then Japan, Switzerland, Germany, and last the United States. He still hopes someday to travel to Australia. Carlos was placed with the Ledin family for the first half of the semester, and is with the Vande Zande family for the second. A key consideration in Carlos’s exchange student application was being involved in Interact. Interact is an extension of Rotary Club but for high school students. Carlos started the Interact Club in his school. It is a service-based club that does community service projects. They especially highlight one big local service project and then one international project with other small volunteer opportunities on the side every year. Coming to OHS, Carlos noticed that there was no Interact. He founded the OHS chapter and was elected president. His hopes are to get more people involved and to do more community service. Besides being involved in Interact, Carlos was a member of OHS’s JV boys soccer team, and he likes to paint and to draw. He likes the brats here, but does miss his fa-
“Finals,” continued from front page
run to study and be prepared.” To prepare for finals week, Wyland looks for study areas that offer little distraction as well as plenty of space that she can be comfortable in. “When I study, I have to have all of my study materials laid out in front of me in different sections, and I shift from subject to subject in smaller time increments,” she said. “Cramming all of one subject’s information into one sitting is not effective for me. One of my favorite places to study with friends is the Firefly Coffeehouse, as it is generally quiet, cozy, and a great place to have a study date. I usually work by myself, but it never hurts to be in a study group with a few others in case you become unsure of some specific things.” The majority of OHS students find that some of the most useful study tools offered by most teachers are the study guides. “I have always done every study guide or review sheet distributed by a teacher,” said Wyland. “Some semester exam study guides even count as a small percentage of credit for the test.”
vorite dishes from home, ceviche (a seafood dish), and enchiladas suisas. Carlos has enjoyed attending Badger games such as football, basketball and hockey. He has not seen a baseball game before so he hopes to attend one in the spring. One thing he misses dearly though is his little Chihuahua. One of the biggest changes while living in the United States for Carlos has been the school system. Carlos explained that in Mexico there are separate schools for grades7, 8, 9 and 10, 11, 12, as well as for boys and girls. There is a set schedule that the students have to attend and do not get to change their classes around. The teachers also travel to them throughout the school day. Carlos started to learn English in elementary school. He speaks English, Spanish, is taking German at OHS, and will learn French when he goes back home. Carlos is considered a senior here but is a junior in Mexico. He also said that they have more vacation time in Mexico than offered here. Carlos has already been to Chicago and will take a west coast trip during the summer. His trip will include sights like the Grand Canyon and San Francisco. He also traveled with his family to Colorado five years ago. There he attempted to ski with his sister Ana Elena, 14, and was introduced to cold weather. “Seeing snow and even touching it was very awesome . . . it’s hard to explain how happy it made me feel.”
Ehrlich, as well as the other two chemistry teachers, hand out an extensive review packet towards the end of each semester. “The majority of my chemistry students do my final exam study packets,” said Ehrlich. “Even though the study guides count for a small amount of points, they count for so much more in the long run. From what I’ve seen in previous years, the students who use the review packets have been much more prepared for the exam.”
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Students participate in Special Olympics
By: Kayla Kaeppler Oregon High School is full of athletes that take part Verheyden said the team, including David, knows in sports year round. During the winter season, basketball that “working together is what makes a team work, and it's is a popular sport. Not only does the school have students not just about one person doing poorly or well, but rather to on the boys’ and girls’ teams, but on the Special Olympics all feel like you can be unified to be successful.” team as well. This time of A typical practice conyear is huge for the Special sists of running, stretching, Olympics basketball playworking on dribbling, shooters. Those who participate ing and passing, followed on the Special Olympics by running plays, and finbasketball team practice ishes off with a scrimmage. every Thursday at the HillVerheyden states that David crest Bible Church and are “went from being a very coached by OHS special edsedentary person, to workucation teacher Elisa Ried. ing out every day.” Thomp Ried coaches about son stated that the team two hours per week, and has practices about 1.5 hours a volunteered with the Speweek. On his own, he puts cial Olympics since 1994. in an additional hour a day. Last year’s Special Olympics basketball team. She started coaching in Or These athletes are dediPhoto submitted by Elisa Ried. egon in 2003. Ried states that her facated and excited for game days. vorite part about coaching is seeing “the athletes having fun Thompson’s typical routine includes listening to music, and getting out of their comfort zone.” stretching and talking with teammates to keep his nerves Amy Verheyden, mother of athlete David Thomp- down. The team has multiple games throughout the winter, son and Agency Manager for Oregon Special Olympics, including scrimmages, and would love to have more people says that she loves to watch her son get out there and play. come out to support them. Any athlete knows that it feels She feels that when Thompson is on the court, all the stress much better to play for fans rooting you on. Thompson, Ried and obstacles in his life all just melt away and “it doesn't and Verheyden all agree that they would love to see more matter. He's out there. He's trying his best.” people get involved. Whether it is coming to support them at This is Thompson’s fourth season on the team. Ac- their games, practices or scrimmages, volunteering, or simcording to Thompson, some teammates have been part of the ply just wishing them luck in the hallways, the support is team for 10 years. Those on the team include Alex Braun, Ja- appreciated. cob Casper, John Herreman, Dillon Holmes, Dustin Holmes, Scrimmages have not been set, but the regional tourBridget Horan, Jacob Johnson, Ethan Muehlenbruch, nament is Sunday, March 3 at the MAC Center in Verona. Thompson, Tom Topp and Ryan Shields. For more information, see Ried or Mr. Casey.
“Class,” continued from front page ministration does anticipate that students are going to want to drop and add classes, but it becomes difficult to determine how many students that will be. For those who wanted to change their schedule at registration, appointments were asked to be made for a later date, so students knew that the counselors were devoting their time to them. Although getting an appointment this year seemed chaotic, the counselors did not want to waste your time by having you stand in line. “There are just too many needs and not enough time,” said Thom-Schneider. If you’re looking to add a class after five days, the teacher will have to re-teach what you have missed. It is time-consuming. If a student is really struggling with a class
and realizes that it is just not the right class for them, then no “F” will be involved. That student will have to meet with a counselor, the teacher, and an administrator. If they are all in agreement that there is truly an academic reason for the student to change out of a class, then an adjustment will be made without the effect of an “F” on that student’s transcript. The next time you have difficulty with your schedule, remember that your fellow classmates are the ones who decided what the classes were going to be like, not administration. To avoid problems in the future, take signing up for classes seriously. Think twice about what you want to take, and just keep in mind that those course sheets do have a big effect on next year’s master schedule.
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January is National Blood Donor Month
By: Lauren Hughes Deemed National Blood Donor Month in 1970, January has become a time when millions of donors are thanked for giving their blood. Although it is National Blood Donor Month, there is actually a decrease in donations across the United States on account of weather and the busy holidays. The American Red Cross aims to “raise awareness about the constant need for blood” and encourage individuals to donate year round. Patients of every age are continually in need of blood; in fact, one out of every 10 patients admitted to a hospital needs blood, according to the Red Cross. The donated blood is used to treat trauma victims, cancer patients, and other medical conditions. Hydration, nutrition, and sleep are three vital necessities to a successful donation. All types of blood are accepted but the need for the universal blood type, or type O negative blood, is stressed. The American Red Cross says “it is always in great demand and often in short supply.” This type of blood can be used by patients of all blood types so it is especially critical in emergency circumstances. The donated blood is first sent to local hospitals. When their needs are met, the blood is utilized all over the United States. The Red Cross states that “youth play an extremely important role in the nation’s blood supply.” Before you can donate blood, you should make sure you meet all eligibility requirements. Donors have to be at least 17 years old to donate, but in Wisconsin, at age 16, an individual can donate with his or her parent’s consent. As long as the donor is of age, is in good health, and reaches the weight requirement, he or she are capable of donating “Approximately 20 percent of donations come from
high school and college blood drives,” so the American Red Cross really stresses the significance of youth donations. Each spring, high school group Family Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA), assists the American Red Cross in a blood drive here at the Oregon High School. Student member, Danielle Lee, has been actively involved in the drive since her freshman year. The group is responsible for advertising the blood drive, providing a food table and acting as donor aids. As a donor aid, Danielle said, “I supervise the people giving blood and ensure they are comfortable throughout the entire process.” She aims to encourage donors, like senior Andrew Jend, to continue to give blood. Andrew donated at the drive for the first time last year and plans to give blood in the future whenever he can. “I just felt accomplished after I donated blood, especially knowing I might’ve saved someone’s life.” Those interested in donating don’t have to wait until spring to donate with frequent blood drives taking place elsewhere in the community. You can find a donation spot near you at http://www. redcrossblood.org/make-donation. To treat patients reliant on lifesaving blood products all over the United States, the Red Cross is entirely dependent on the generosity of the public. Celebrating National Blood Donor Month is a way for the Red Cross to thank those who donate because Red Cross knows the donated blood is extremely valuable. “With one donation, you can help save up to three lives,” according to the Red Cross For more information on blood donation or the Red Cross organization, visit http:// www.redcrossblood.org/.
New Year’s resolutions
By: Mackenzie Maier The first of the New Year is a special time for a lot of people because it provides a fresh start. It’s a chance for people to try something different or accomplish a new goal. “I want to get in a shape and hopefully gain a six pack throughout the year,” said OHS senior Zach Reagals. For a lot of teenagers, that seems to be the case. Many say they want to lose weight, find a girlfriend/boyfriend or get better grades, but not everyone is like that. When senior Zach Eyers, was asked about his New Year’s resolution, he said “to be someone others look up to.” Reagals said, “My goal of losing weight is going to be a short goal for me. I am always going to be exercising to stay in shape but once I reach the goal I want, I am not going to try as hard.” But some goals don’t have a time period. “My
goal is going to last the whole year and beyond because you can never be too good of a person,” said Eyers. “There is always room for improvement.” Forty percent of students polled want to get a job and make money, 27% want to get healthier, 13% want to be a good role model and someone others look up to, and 20% will try harder in school. Throughout the New Year people are going to be taking day-by-day steps to achieve their New Year’s resolution. Some goals will require the whole year to accomplish, others only a few months. No matter what your New Year’s resolution is, there is never enough you can do to make that goal a reality.
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Tips for staying healthy in the new year By: Sarah Jacobs Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is essential in order perior concentration and better muscle coordination,” said to live a long and fulfilling life. More specifically, balance Lee. According to Lee, a healthy breakfast should consist of between exercise, nutrition, hydration, and sleep is the key some kind of protein because it makes you feel fuller for lonto staying happy and healthy. ger as compared to carbohydrates. A popular excuse teens A common misconception is that exercising must be use is that they don’t have enough time to eat breakfast in the related to athletics. Most people are unaware that staying morning. However, making the time to do so would be well active can be anything from basic stretching to competing in worthwhile and beneficial for the mind and body. Hydration is also a critical component to staying the Iron Man. It is suggested that you find a form of exercise that you take pleasure in and make it healthy. It is important for students to part of your daily routine. Also, don’t understand that the body needs water just as much as it needs vitamins and hesitate to bring your friends along minerals. A good way to ensure that because it can make the workout even more enjoyable. you are getting enough water throughout the day is to bring a water bottle It is recommended that an individual achieves at least 60 minutes of to school. This way, you will have constant access to water. Students moderate exercise each day. Advantagshould also be aware that when you es of physical activity include sleeping better, the production of endorphins get thirsty, it is your body’s way of telling you that it needs more water. in the body which can make a person feel happier and more peaceful, and the Water is important for digestion and high energy levels as well and without prevention of mild depression or low Photo courtesy of benefits.gov. it, your body is more vulnerable to unself-esteem. “Statistically, it has been provpleasant medical complications. Another tip is that young adults should keep alcohol en that our senses, our ability to learn, and our immune sys- tem are heightened as a result of exercise,” said OHS health and caffeine to a minimum. Alcohol and soda actually dehyand physical education teacher Mark Diercks. Additionally, drate you because they make your body excrete extra water. staying fit will be beneficial in the future as well. Strength- Drinking water regularly is one of the best things you can do ening the body while you are young can lower the risk of for your body, and it’s free! Lastly, getting a substantial amount of sleep can health hazards as you age. Another important aspect of health is nutrition. In make all the difference, especially for teens. OHS nurse our culture, the majority of people eat three meals a day. Shelly Hicks recommends that high school students get at Although society has adapted to this eating schedule based least 8-9 hours of sleep each night. “The body will recover on a farmer’s mentality, it has been proven that eating less at itself a lot faster with sleep,” said Lee. She also stresses that more intervals throughout the day is more beneficial. More- sleep is important for students because their minds and bodover, it is strongly advised that teens increase their intake of ies are still developing. To make sure you are getting enough sleep, it is a fruits and vegetables. A helpful trick to make sure you are getting a variety of vitamins and minerals from produce is good idea to get yourself into a consistent cycle. Going to trying to eat as many different colors as you can. bed and waking up at the same time can be a big help. Hicks “To help you get enough fruits and veggies each also made it clear that students should not stay up late studyday, try putting a serving or two (1 serving = 1 cup) in a ing every night because when they are tired, they remember plastic sandwich bag,” said OHS athletic trainer Megan Lee. less and are less focused. Getting enough sleep is undeni“Bring one to school each day to keep in your locker so you ably important to your health because it rejuvenates the body can have a healthy snack at hand.” Also, a common fallacy and prepares you for each day. is that eating healthy means no junk food. Eating sweets Altogether, in order to maintain a healthy lifestyle, like cookies and desserts is ok, as long as it is in moderation. students should make a habit of exercising, eating right, hy In addition, eating breakfast is necessary to start your drating and sleeping each day. A healthy lifestyle while you day. “Students who eat breakfast have higher test scores, su- are young sets the foundation for the future.
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Obama to be sworn into office Jan. 21
By: Charles Groenier Since the United States gained independence from Many people of the utmost importance attend the Britain, the presidential election has been one of the most sa- Presidential Inauguration such as the current President, the cred and honored traditions of all time. From George Wash- future President, various government officials and other poington in 1789 to Barack Obama in 2009, U.S. citizens look litical figures, so it is essential to have their safety guaranteed forward to watching their new President sworn in to office.. and the government takes no risks. “They had Secret Service When an personnel, Capital event as prestigious Police, Armed Foras the presidential est Service Rangers, inauguration is held, Armed Park Serthe preparation and vice personnel on security must be horseback, local and at its best. People surrounding area come from all over Police Officers and the U.S. to make Transportation Sesure everything is in curity Officers straplace, from the food tegically placed all that is being served over the U.S. Capital to how the President grounds” said Riwill be getting from ese. “Attendees go place to place. through a metal de Patrick tector; if they set off President Obama sworn into office in 2009. Riese, who was a the audible alarm, Photo courtesy of CBC News. Transportation Sethey would receive a curity Officer with the Transportation Security Administra- full body pat-down in search for prohibited items.” tion, was called to work during the 2009 Inauguration where The inauguration is one of the largest gatherings in President Obama was sworn in. the United States and one of the most watched events on “Officers arrived two days before the inauguration television. “I watched the swearing in because it is very in Washington D.C. and went through multiple briefings meaningful to swear a person in to be a leader of a country,” from various D.C. staff” and were “briefed by the Secret said Joleen Lentz. Service on how the security checkpoints were to be operated President Obama’s 2009 inauguration had the largand on how we would screen all the attendees,” said Riese. est attendance of any event in the history of Washington, Preparation not only makes the event be able to function on D.C., and the largest attendance of any presidential inaugutime and properly, but it is what also makes the event ap- ration in U.S. history. pealing to watch. The 2009 Inauguration was “very well put “I feel like I was a part of history,” said Riese. on as an event symbolizing the country” said OHS parent This year, the presidential inauguration will be held Joleen Lentz. on January 21 in Washington, D.C.
Need advice? Ask Carl!
Submit your questions or concerns anonymously in the box outside Ms. Riese’s room, 603. He’ll answer your questions in upcoming issues!
Sports
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Girls’ basketball shoots hoops for a cure By: Aimee Urben The OHS girls’ basketball teams will be hosting their 3rd Annual Breast Cancer Awareness Night Friday, January 18 when they host Madison Edgewood. This year they invited all girls’ youth teams in the community to help surpass last year’s $3,500 raised, with hopes of reaching $10,000 for the University of Wisconsin Carbone Cancer Center (UWCCC). Teresa Peach, one of the leaders on the planning committee, admits it’s an aggressive goal, but says, “We were able to raise over $3,500 last year, and hopefully by engaging the youth basketball teams, and more time to plan the event, we will be able to hit our new goal of $10,000 this year.” The UWCCC is the only comprehensive cancer center in Wisconsin. Thousands on the UW campus come together in research laboratories with more than 280 physicians and scientists to launch pilot programs and find new discoveries for the best ways to detect, prevent, diagnose and treat cancer. The Panther players and parents have been working hard planning for a successful evening. They also have a few events planned prior to the fundraiser. During several lunch periods in January, players will be selling pink and white tiedyed T-shirts to students and faculty. The shirts will sell for $12.00 and all the proceeds will be included in their event night totals to support the UWCCC. Their goal is to sell 300 T-shirts which will also be available for purchase the
night of the event. In addition to selling T-shirts, they plan to have “Spare Change Days” where students can donate to the cause. The event includes the games, but a silent auction, a 50/50 raffle, prizes and a halftime shooting contest. Special attributions will be paid to both loved ones lost and breast cancer survivors. Join the girls January 18 for a night of PINK to fight for a great cause. The freshman game kicks off at 5:30, JV at 5:50 and Varsity at 7:30. All youth basketball players wearing their tie-dye T-shirt will receive free admission to the varsity game. According to the American Cancer Society, breast cancer is the most common cancer among American women, except for skin cancer. One in eight women in the United States will develop breast cancer in her lifetime. But the statistics are improving, and the death rate has been on a steady decline since 1990. Today, only about 1 in 36 breast cancer cases result in death. The decline has been attributed to earlier detection through mammograms and screenings, increased awareness, improved treatments and advanced technologies. Millions of Americans across the country get involved with raising money for finding cures and new technologies to fight cancer and stop the loss of life. The OHS girls’ basketball teams want to do their part in joining the fight against breast cancer and would like to invite and welcome everyone to participate for the cause.
Current bowl selection system flawed By: Ethan Karls Every January, many sports fans look forward to the college football bowl games. Although these games bring a lot of excitement to fans, they also remind us of the flaws of the current system. With 35 bowl games this year, 70 Division 1 college football teams will have the chance to participate in a bowl game. How these teams are chosen, however, can create a significant amount of controversy. The teams selected to a bowl game will either play in a Bowl Championship Series (BCS) bowl game or a nonBCS bowl game. The BCS bowl games are the games that create controversy. The selection system for the BCS bowl games creates five bowl match-ups, involving the ten topranked NCAA Division I football teams, including the BCS National Championship Game. The intention is for the top two teams in the nation to play in the Championship game. The method by which these teams are chosen is controversial. The top teams are ranked by combining the results of two polls, the Harris Interactive College Football Poll, and the USA Today Coaches’ Poll, along with a computer ranking, which is based on six weekly computer polls.
Based upon these results, the top two teams are chosen to the play in the Championship Game, and the remaining top eight are chosen to play in the other four BCS bowl game matchups. This system is controversial because it doesn’t rely on playoffs, unlike Division 2 and Division 3 college football, as well as other Division 1 sports such as hockey and basketball. The current system is not “able to crown a true champion,” said OHS athletic administrator Mike Carr. The fact that the national championship game is decided by polls and computers and not by what actually happens on the field is the main reason many people dislike the current system. Although this system does have many imperfections, it does have some good aspects. When asked what the current system does correctly, OHS student and football fan Sam Fredrickson said “it provides a number of bowl games for teams to play.” “[The current system] extends the season, gives fans an additional outlet, and gives colleges and universities adSee “Bowl,” page 13
The Skinny
Feature
est percentage of people who walk to work. • The gnomon is the thing that casts the shadow on a sundial. • Being unmarried can shorten a man’s life by 10 years. Facts courtesy of weirdfacts.com.
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Club of the Month: SALT By: Sydney Hagen
Members of SALT, short for the Student Asset Leadership Team, engage in many activities at OHS, as well • Before 1850, golf balls were as the district’s elementary schools. made of leather and were stuffed Some of events they host include viswith feathers. its to the elementary schools to teach 3rd and 4th graders about the assets • A pole vaulter, when he lands, by playing games and helping them to make connections between the assets may absorb up to 20,000 pounds of pressure per square inch on the and their lives. Othjoints of his tubular thigh bones. er activities SALT • Noisemaking and fireworks on members New Year’s Eve is believed to particihave originated in ancient times, pate in are when noise and fire were thought random to dispel evil spirits and bring acts of good luck. kindness, starting a • The most popular T.V. show in anti-cyVenezuela is the “Miss Venezuela berbullyPageant.” ing Twitter page, and making announcements • Adults have, on average, two to educate high schoolers about the 40 gallons of air in the space between developmental assets. “The 40 Developmental Assets their skin and their clothes. are 40 positive experiences and qualities that everyone has the possibility of • Minnesota has 99 lakes named having to create a positive environment Mud Lake. and life for themselves,” said SALT advisor and OHS special education teach• Benjamin Franklin gave guitar er Nicole Koeller. Educating people on lessons. these assets is what SALT aims to do. “We wish to build a better, • Alaska is the state with the high- safer, and friendlier community in all By: Miranda Mellen
schools in the Oregon School District,” said junior Nick Miller. Some of the benefits of the club include “brightening the day of your fellow high schoolers and helping teach the elementary schoolers.” One of SALT’s most popular random acts of kindness for several years now is to hand out hot chocolate and candy canes one day each winter before school, for free. SALT just held this year’s day on Dec. 11; they served around 200 cups of hot chocolate and candy canes. “[SALT] is a good leadership group that promotes the assets and a positive way of life,” said former SALT member Brooke Debroux. If you are looking to help the Oregon community and get involved in a fun club at Oregon High School, look ito joining SALT today! They typically meet the 2nd and 4th Tuesdays of the month at 7:30 am in room 632. See Ms. Koeller for questions and details.
Paw Print Staff 456 N. Perry Parkway Oregon, WI 53575 Phone: 608-835-4418 OHSPawPrint@gmail.com Editorial Board: Sean Bull Carissa Goodwick Miranda Mellen Maddie Smith Mack Tubridy Photography: Carissa Goodwick Mack Tubridy Contributing Staff: Adam Brauns Heidi Gempeler Charles Groenier Sydney Hagen Lauren Hughes Sarah Jacobs Kayla Kaeppler Ethan Karls Wesley Korpela Tyler Lentz Mackenzie Maier Alex McDonald Max McDonald Hailey Morey Alex Nowland Michael Rosga Tessa Ryan Alec Steensland Aimee Urben Adrian Valdez Jacob Wall Advisor: Ms. Abby Riese
News
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Snow-dependent business suffers in mild winters By: Tessa Ryan Winter is the time of the year make money because there was barely where snowboarding and skiing parks any snow,” said Galloway. “We’re a make the most money, but does the small, private business that runs strictly amount of snowfall affect the amount of from our members so the snow is really income for these parks? important because without it, we can’t There is teach our lessons.” no doubt snow Not only is boarding and skimaking artificial ing are popular snow expensive, but for many people it also can be a little here in Wisconbit of a hassle for sin, and even those who ride on it. for some people, “Fake snow is super “snowboarding icy and it gets reis what [they] ally bad especially at look forward to night.” Johnson exfor the whole pressed. year,” dedicated “Fake snow snowboarder and does obviously cost OHS junior Troy more then real snow, Johnson stated. but for the most part, With our winters our riders make the becoming more best of it and they and more uncome out to do what Skiiers enjoy the snow at Tyrol Basin. predictable, the they love to do,” said Photo courtesy of WKOW. amount of snowMcKay. fall is slowly decreasing. Weather conditions also contrib “Our park does very well in ute to the kind of people who are attractthe winters due to the facilities we have ed to the park at that given time. Riders available for our guests. We have how- with more advanced skills go whenever ever seen a decrease in our income with- they can. “It doesn’t matter if it’s real in the past year due to our winter weath- or fake snow, just as long as I’m able to ers but we make fake snow to make up get out there and practice for a contest, for it” Don McKay, General Manager that’s all I really care about,” said Johnfor Tyrol Basin, stated. son. “Once the season fully starts, I go Those facilities that are able to [around] twenty hours a week.” produce artificial snow luck out when Those who aren’t as advanced the weather doesn’t accommodate for and who prefer to just go to have a fun snowfall; but for those that don’t have time tend to lean towards only going this luxury, it becomes hard, if not im- when there is real snow, McKay indipossible to bring in business. Ian Gal- cated. loway, a private lessons instructor for With Wisconsin weather being Blackhawk Ski Club, notices an enor- so unpredictable, businesses have seen mous drop in the amount of money he some decrease in the amount of income has made while teaching lessons. they bring in over the winter season. “Last year was a bad winter to
Opinion
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The Correct Opinion with Wesley Korpela
The Correct Person of the Year Award: Mr. Kyle Oksiuta By: Wesley Korpela
A large number of news outlets release who they believe is the most influential person of a certain year. However, I have a problem with this. It appears to me that no one realized the genius, influence, and power of a teacher here at our very own school, Mr. Kyle Oksiuta. Mr. Oksiuta is the psychology teacher here at OHS but he's much more than that. I would be willing to make the argument that he is actually an angelic spirit trapped in a mortal body and I have a feeling that he would agree. This is why he is the first recipient of the Correct Person of the Year Award. Just being in his presence gives you the impression you're near greatness and this is what I experienced when we sat down for an interview. _______________________________________________ Korpela: There's no question that you're honored by my award, but are you going to get a swelled head or are you going to be humbled by this new highlight in your life and why should future Correct People of the Year mirror your groundbreaking behavior? Oksiuta: Child, please. While my accomplishments may dwarf those of most people of Oregon High School combined, rest assured that Kyle Oksiuta will always stay humble. Fame, fortune, and good looks aside, I'm still just Oksiuta from the block. While girls may swoon when I walk the streets of Oregon, back in Stevens Point I'm just another guy. Just kidding, I'm really famous there too. WK: If you were to pick 10 words to describe yourself, what would they be? KO: Luminescent. Dashing. Mysterious. Vogue. Scintillating. Malevolent. Charismatic. Hairy. Putrid. Dictator. WK: Your psychology classes are well aware of your cat, Gretta. I feel, from what I've heard from you, that there's a lot of chemistry between you and her. Are there any plans on tying the knot anytime soon? KO: MY AGENT GAVE YOU SPECIFIC INSTRUCTIONS THAT I WAS NOT TO BE QUESTIONED ABOUT GRETTA. WK: On my short list of people for this heavenly title I have Hillary Clinton, Julius Ceasar, Carly Rae Jepsen, and Tyra Banks. Why do you think
you beat out these people for my prestigious award? KO: This is just a silly question, Wez. Do you ask a lion why it roars? It just does. Do you ask a cookie why it's sweet? It just is. Did you ask Al Gore why he invented the Internet? He just did. Similarly, I cannot explain why I'm so prestigious. I just am. WK: What's in your arsenal of personal skills? KO: This would take forever to answer, so I'll simply tell you my experiences from the month of December, 2012. December 1st: invented the 27th letter of the alphabet. December 3rd: meditated under a fig tree and achieved nirvana. December 7th: successfully cloned Mr. Lindsey using a swipe of his saliva obtained from the water fountain and a healthy ovum from [INFORMATION REDACTED FROM NEWSPAPER FOR CONFIDENTIALITY CONCERNS]. December 10th: played Call of Duty and achieved 64 kills and 0 deaths in a single game. December 14th: received a phone call from President Obama asking for my recommendations on how to handle the fiscal cliff negotiations. December 15th: memorized pi to the 597th digit. December 18th: beat LeBron James in a game of HORSE. December 20th: traveled back in time and defeated a triceratops in hand-to-horn combat. December 22nd: forgot school was on winter break and showed up to teach; all students had attended anyway just in hopes of seeing me. December 25th: partied with Santa Claus all day; performed some of his gift-giving duties while he slept off the afternoon. December 28th: developed and subsequently overcame a craving for human flesh following a rare encounter with a Wendigo. December 30th: cuddled with my cat, Gretta. WK: What has been your inspiration? KO: Oh golly, where do I start. Growing up, I wasn't like every other kid, you know, who dreams about being a teacher. I was always more interested in what water was made out of in the ocean. Sylvester Stallone's a real hero of mine. Cher. Cher would be another person who's a hero. The music she's created over the years--I don't really listen to it, but that the fact that she's making it, I respect that. I care desperately about what I do. Do I always know who my students are? “Correct Person� continued on the next page
Opinion
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“Correct Person,” continued from the previous page No. Do I always know what I'm supposed to be teaching? No. But I show up, and I always give it my best shot. WK: Tell me, using examples of imagery, what a day in the life of Kyle Oksiuta is like. KO: Imagine yourself scaling Mount Everest without the use of cables, radio equipment, oxygen, or common sense. Visualize giant gusts of wind blowing back your blonde hair, layered and feathered to perfection, at such a velocity that it resembles a yellow daffodil flying through the air following an atomic bomb blast. Now envision a dragon, swooping by with delicate crimson wings, blowing 400 degree flames of molten lava onto your back. Finally, picture a small woodland creature. This comes as close as can be described in words to what it feels like to be me.
charitable donations, 20 kittens, and a sheephant (the only currently living offspring between a sheep and an elephant). Sometimes I feel like it all gets to be a bit too much, but I realize that I have a gift and it needs to be shared with the world. I will never stop teaching and I will never stop influencing. WK: Do you have any fears now that such a famous star (me) has now introduced you to the world? KO: Well, considering that you came into this interview followed by Anne Hathaway, Angelina Jolie, Natalie Portman, Mila Kunis, and Carrot Top, I have to admit it's a little intimidating to see someone as menacing as you surrounded by so much beauty.
WK: What are your dreams that will inevitably mold the world into your liking? KO: I dream of a world where all people are jelly of me, I teach a class called "Swag 101", "YOLO" becomes part of the pledge of allegiance, and all cats are loved. Only then Oksiuta, in all his glory. Classic “pic of self in mirror with will I truly be at peace. cat on shoulder pose.” Photo submitted by Oksiuta.
WK: Who do you take credit in influencing? KO: Heh, it would be quicker to ask me who I haven't influenced. Let's just say that I have had to rent out 6 warehouses in Oregon just to contain all of the gifts of appreciation I've received from students, their parents, and fellow teachers over the years. I would have to check with my accountant, Mr. Root, for exact figures, but I currently have accumulated approximately 15,000 letters, 2,000 flower boutiques, 8,000 senior pictures, 10,000
“Bowl,” continued from page 9
ditional exposure” said Carr. “There are going to be a lot of fans that will watch Northern Illinois in a BCS bowl that don’t know where DeKalb is….what majors they offer, etc.” Many believe college football has recently taken a step in the right direction. Starting in the 2014 season, Division 1 College Football will have a four team playoff to decide which two teams will play for the national championship.
My congratulations to Mr. Oksiuta for winning the most important award I can bestow on any living being. May his prowess as a human being serve as a lesson for any of you who wish to nab the title of "The Correct Person of the Year."
Although many see this as an improvement for college football, four teams may not be enough. “A playoff of the top 10 teams or so” would be preferable, according to OHS student Cole Hefty. As Division 1 College Football moves toward a traditional playoff system, many hope there will be less controversy in the future, and the “true champion” will be crowned.
January Horoscopes
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By: Miranda Mellen
Aries- January should be a busy month for business and Libra- A transformation of sorts in your personal life is in work; at the same time, socializing and romance also figure prominently. Certainly, it's easy for you to get quite fired up about issues close to your heart this month. Your feelings about friends can also be more intense in January. New ideas are abundant, but not always supported by people around you.
the works this year, and the stage is being set in January. Some insecurities can certainly surface now, but you're in a good position to take charge and manage your relationships. Release some of the pent-up frustration. News of a trip or an adventure in the near future can figure strongly in January.
Taurus- January is a good month for travel and explo- Scorpio- Errands, paperwork, learning, social contact, ration, but career or reputation matters can get tricky at times. If you've been considering taking a trip or brushing up your knowledge with a course, this is a favorable month in which to solidify your plans. Your flavor for adventure runs high. The last week of the month might involve some conflicts with family members.
and short trips are bound to keep you on your toes this month. An important conversation or commitment can occur. Romance is about meeting of the minds right now. All month, you can experience a lot of energy centering around the home or with family. Channel this energy constructively.
Gemini- January is a time for moving out of your com- Sagittarius- Friends are in your corner, and you are fort zone and creating new experiences for yourself. The year ahead is another strong one for you, and you have much to look forward to. Plans might be made now for travel, education, or other forms of exploration. Physical energy can be on the low side this month, but emotional energy and enthusiasm run high.
especially affectionate and generous this month. Personal finances figure prominently. You have the chance to improve your financial position, either by stabilizing cash flow or finding new ways to make money altogether. Learning, communicating, and connecting are all big themes this month.
Cancer- Relationships take center stage this month, and Capricorn- January is a strong month for popularity and you might put your personal plans on the back burner to tend to others. There can be a lot of negotiating, discussing, and compromising going on with a special person in your life. Be willing to compromise and to make a fresh start with others, but stand up for your needs and desires.
influence, as well as getting personal initiatives off the ground. It's a good time for resolving problems from the past. Intellectually you are in top form. You are willing to work especially hard for security, and you are also quick to defend your values.
Leo- January is very often a month of reorganization, Aquarius- While there is part of you that prefers bework, and special attention to health regimes for you. While this year is no exception, it's a more pleasant phase this year. There is a strong sense that you are on top of the "little things" in your life. Group activities and friendships can be very rewarding this month.
ing in the background or under the radar in the first three weeks of January, you are raring to go when it comes to moving ahead personal plans. A project or investment that you may have given up on could surprise you with some movement and possible returns.
Virgo- Getting your life, including your career, on track Pisces- The continues to be a strong theme, but you are able to find a healthy balance between work and play right now. Do take advantage of your increased motivation and energy for work and health routines, but remember that overdoing it will set you back.
year begins on a high note, with doors opening for you pretty much everywhere you look. January should be good for making appointments, networking, and enjoying group activities. This is a very strong period for bonding with people with similar interests or perspectives. Horoscopes courtesy of cafeastrology.com