December 2011 Edition by Benton High School

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THE BEN TON IAN Inside this Edition: Project Connect Soon to Launch Teens and STDs Students New Year’s Eve Plans Top 10 Christmas Gifts BHS Clubs to Join Benton’s New Year’s Resolutions Teen Pregnancy on the Rise Obesity Rate Increase in Adolescence Sports Highlighs and more... nnn

New Years Eve 2012 by Leetha Rowe If you plan on staying in this New Year’s Eve, consider watching “‘Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin‘ Eve’ with Ryan Seacrest 2012”. Jenny McCarthy will be co-hosting this year’s festivities, reporting live from Time Square with 40 years of “Rockin’ Eve” history. This five and a half hour broadcast will air special

performances from groups such as Pitbull, Lady Gaga, Justin Beiber, and Hot Chelle Rae, and host live reports of celebrations going on across the world. At midnight, Dick Clark will carry on his traditional ball-dropping countdown at midnight from Times Square in New York City. The east coast will also be having its own celebration in Los Angeles with Fergie and

the Black Eyed Peas hosting the festivities. The celebration will begin at 8:00 p.m. eastern time with Jenny McCarthy and Fergie hosting a special twohour event entitled “New Year’s Rockin’ Eve: The 40th Anniversary Party” to start off the event.

COMING SOON!!!!! THE BIRDHOUSE, BENTON’S NEW SCHOOL STORE WILL BE OPENING SOON. THE BIRD HOUSE WILL BE OPEN BEFORE AND AFTER SCHOOL IN THE MAIN HALL. CARDINAL APPAREL, DRINKS, SCHOOL SPIRIT ITEMS, AND MORE. COME CHECK IT OUT!

DEBATE TAKES IT UP A NOTCH!

WINTER SPORTS HIGHLIGHTS

Index

Bentonian Staff “My New Year’s resolution is to be drama free!”

“My New Year’s resolution is to stop drinking pop.”

Brittany Boggess Editor-in-Chief

Kaelynn Burchett Student Life

“My New Year’s resolution is to get a 26 on the ACT by the end of the year.”

“My New Year’s resolution is to lift more weights and put 35 pounds on.”

Jered Ross Student Life

Emily Cox Opinion/Columnist

“My New Year’s resolution is to put more faight in the GPS lady.”

Daniel Stephan News Writer

“My New Year’s resolution is to get rid of all my unwanted clothes.”

London Poston Features

“My New Year’s resolution is to find a job and spend more time with Zach.”

“My New Year’s resolution is to to get a job.”

Sami Kretzer Sports

Cheyanne Mast News Writer

“My New Year’s resolution is to think of a password other than password.”

Jourdain Brooks Sports

“My New Year’s resolution is to stop being so sarcastic.”

Leetha Rowe News Writer

Sunday

Monday

December 2011 Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday

Wm. Chrisman High School-Debate

Truman High School- Debate

Boys BB vs. Harrisonville V/JV (A) 5:30p

St. Joe Central JV Tournament JV (A)

Kearney Debate Tournament TBA

Boliver Wrestling Invitational V (A) 9:30a Indoor Soccer begins-BHS gym 11:30a Girls BB vs. Raytown V/JV (A) 1/2:30p

Wm. Chrisman High School-Debate

Boys BB vs. Lafayette 2 hour early out Boys BB vs. Raytown South-Debate FR (A) Lafayette FR (A) TBA Boys BB vs. Lafayette TBA Girls BB vs. Truman High School- FR (A) Harrisonville V/JV/FR Debate Boys BB vs. Platte TBA Boys BB vs. (H) 6:00p County V/JV (A) Maryville V/JV (A) 5:30p 5:30p Wrestling vs. Odessa/Lathrop V/ JV (H) 6:00p 11

Benton Tri Match V/JV (H) 6:00p

Girls BB vs. Savannah V/JV/FR (A) 5:00p

Boys BB vs. Schlagle V/ JV (A) 5:30p 26 27

Raytown South-Debate Excelsior Springs JV Tournament (A) 9:30a Indoor Soccer begins-BHS gym 11:30a

Benton Quad V/JV (H) 5:30p

Boys BB vs. Savannah V/JV/FR (A) 5:00p

Girls BB vs. Bishop Girls BB vs. Central V LeBlond V (A) TBA (H) TBA

Indoor Soccer-BHS gym 11:30a

Boys BB vs. Bishop Boys BB vs. Central V LeBlond V (A) TBA (H) TBA

Harrisonville Tournament- Wrestling (A) TBA

Winter Choir Concert-BHS Auditorium 7:00p 22

Harrisonville Tournament-Wrestling (A) 4:00p 23 24

2 hour early out

No School-Christmas Break begins

No School-Christmas break Indoor Soccer-BHS gym 11:30a

No School- No School-Christmas No School-Christmas No School-Christmas No School- Christmas break break break break Christmas break Boys BB Rolla Holiday Tournament Lady Jays Classic V V (A) (A) TBA TBA

No School-Christmas break

Indoor Soccer-BHS gym Lady Jays Classic V Lady Jays Classic V (A) 11:30a (A) TBA TBA

January 2012 Sunday 1

Monday 2

Tuesday 3

Wednesday 4

No School-Christmas Teacher Work Day First Day Back to break School! (red day) Girls BB vs. Notre Dame De Sion V/JV (H) 5/6:30 pm

Thursday 5

Friday 6

Boys BB vs. Smithville (H) V/ JV/FR 5/6:15/7:30 pm

Wrestling-Liberty JV Invitational-Wrestling (A) 8:00 am Wrestling-Excelsior Springs Invitational V (A) 9:30 am

Girls BB vs. Smithville V/JV/ FR (A) 5/6:15/7:30 pm

Boys and Girls BB- Wrestling-Ohara/ Kearney Invitational V Benton V/JV (A) (A) 6:00 pm TBA

No School

Rockhurst Classic- Boys BB (A) JV Basehor Boys and Girls TBA Tournament (A) V TBA Chilli/Cameron/ Smithville Quad- Wrestling V/JV (A) 5:00 pm 23 24 Girls BB vs. St. Teresa’s Benton/Pius/Marvill Academy V/JV (H) Tri-Wrestling V/JV 5/6:30 pm (H) 6:00 pm

Savannah Winterblast- Debate

Girls BB vs. Cameron Boys BB vs. Cameron V/JV (A) V/JV/FR (H) 5/7:30 pm 5/6:15/7:30 pm

Saturday 7

Benton Wrestling Liberty High School- vs. Oak Grove V/JV Debate (H) 6:00 pm

Liberty High School-Debate

Cameron Tournament-Boys and Girls BB (A) FR 4:30 pm

Boys BB vs. Bishop Boys BB vs. Central V/ MEC Conference LeBlond-FR (A) JV/FR (A) Tournament-Wrestling V 6:45pm 5/6:15/7:30 pm (A) TBA

Center Invitational- Wrestling V (A) 8:30 am

Girls BB vs. Bishop LeBlond FR (A) 5:30 pm 25

Benton/Central/ Savannah Winterblast- Savannah Winterblast- Lafayette Tri V/JV Debate Debate (A) 5:30 pm Girls BB vs. Springaield Girls BB vs. Ozark V (A) Kickapoo V (A) 2:30 pm TBA Benton Wrestling Invitational V (H) TBA

Project Connect Program Soon to Launch by Emily Cox As you all know, when we come back from Christmas break, we all be receiving our very own computers. Everyday we are coming closer and closer to the launch of has been named “Project Connect”. This is a huge step for everyone as we begin learning through this technology together. Not only is this a huge step for us, as students, it’s also a huge step for our school. Benton High School is what you call the “pilot school” for Project Connect. For those of you who may not know what a pilot is, it’s most easily compared to a test run. Benton is privileged to be the only high school in the district to be going one to one. For many years we have been two to one. By this I mean two students for every one computer in the building. So all of us having a computer is a pretty big change, but it may not be as big as you think. When we return on January 4, 2012, the first day back from winter break, we will report to our CAMP class and receive our brand new Mac Books. Luckily, the day before break all of our lovely CAMP teachers will be registering our computers for us, saving us about an hour and a half of “electronic” paperwork. On that note, be sure to thank your CAMP teachers for taking the extra time to make this a little easier. The first day back will consist mostly of computer training. All day we will be learning about our new computers, and the brand new software that comes with them. After sitting down with Dr.Westfall, I’ve learned some pretty cool stuff and “Project Connect”. One of the new programs that will be on our computers is called Computrace. This is software that assures, 100%, your computer won’t be lost or stolen! It’s way more advanced than what we have on our computers now. Another program our computer will be running off of is Lion-OS. This is the same software our teachers currently use. A little perk that comes with Lion-OS is a feature called Self Service. In a nutshell, Self Service is an app store. With Self Service, you can download the applications you need for your computer. Just make sure you have permission from Dr. Westfall first. I was able to browse through the library myself and there are games and all kinds of stuff that we can download for free. Dr.Westfall has to approve of the application you want to download, and then it goes on a list that becomes available to everyone. If there isn’t an application on the list that you want, it’s as simple as getting it approved and then you have it. Every student will be required to have an Apple account. If you already have one, all

you have to do is turn your name and password into your CAMP teacher. The last really cool feature I’m going to talk about is called Air Drop. Air Drop is a communication application. If you have ever been on Google Maps, you’ll know exactly what I am talking about. The little pegs you see all over the maps, is what you’ll see on Air Drop. This application allows you to directly send documents to your neighbor’s computer. All you have to do is drag the document from your peg, to your neighbors peg, drop it, and magic, what was on your computer is now on your neighbors. Now there is one condition to getting your laptop, your parents have to come to the parent meeting and sign the permission slip. The computers will not be sent home, for any reason, until this slip has been signed. A letter has been sent home to your parents, but it would be a good thing to remind them about the meeting, as it is very important that they come. Insurance is not required to have for your computer, but if I was you, I would highly consider getting it. If you do not get the insurance, and your computer is damaged, you are responsible for covering the cost to fix or replace it. Now something to take into account is that there is no charge to cover theft because the school district has purchased the Computrace for us. I want to bring to your attention that the charger that you will be carrying is eight dollars by itself ! Something as little as that, if it breaks, or is water damaged, while not covered under insurance, is eighty dollars out of your pocket. The laptop case you will be assigned to carry, which is another twenty-five dollars, if damaged would end up costing you one hundred and five dollars. That’s not even including the computer. The computer alone is nine hundred dollars. Now if you do the math, that’s one thousand and five dollars of school property you’ll be carrying around. Do you have the money to cover that if an accident happens? I know I don’t. So to answer another question you may have, how much is insurance? Well, you will be provided with a list of insurance providers and, depending on your needs, and what policy fits you best, you’ll be able to get coverage. Insurance can range from $15-30 a semester, which is not too bad considering the thousands it would cost you otherwise. The first week we are back, the computers will remain at school overnight. We will not be allowed to take them home with us until the following Monday, January 9. As you all know, social networking sites are banned during school hours. As of now, violation of this restriction isn’t really a huge

punishment, but when we get our new computers, it’s going to change dramatically. Consequences can range from ISS, to having the computer taken away. Cheating will be treated the same way, and for those of you who don’t know our policy, it can possibly end up in expulsion from Benton. (You can find this in your student handbook). Having a computer is a responsibility, therefore, we are responsible for charing them every night to be ready to use during the school day. If you fail to do so, you’ll be back to paper and pencil. The battery of your computer will last you up to twelve hours (double the battery life of the computers we’re using now). Charging rules will vary by teacher, but keep in mind that classrooms will not have enough outlets for every student to plug their computer in. The only thing the teachers are being provided with is a power strip; not nearly enough to charge thirty kids’ computers. Some of you may have heard about the school store that will be opening soon. It will be located in the old conference room next to Dr. Westfall’s office. The store will be selling laptop accessories for students to buy to personalize their laptops and bags, as well as items to help us organize our classwork. Laptop skins, USB drives, and decals/ decorative accessories to personalize your laptop and carrying case, are just a few things students will be able to buy. If you are worried because you’re not very good on a computer, you can always visit the tech office located in the library. A tech support specialist will be available upon request, and I’m sure your friendly librarians, Mrs. Corey and Mrs. Halter, will be willing to help you out, as well. There will be plenty of support and guidance available throughout this transition. This is going to be a good experience for all of us. It may be a little bumpy to start, but it will progress and work itself out in the long run, so remember, be patient, we’re all in the same boat, faculty and students. Like Dr. Westfall said to me during our interview, “We are not preparing you to be who your parents were twenty years ago, we’re preparing you to be who your children will be twenty years in the future.” This is the future and we’re headed full speed into it. I hope everyone is excited as I am!

Teens and STDs by Brittany Boggess According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), one in four teen girls in the United States has a sexually transmitted disease. Some doctors say that the number of the STD rates may be due to the lack of abstinence, sex education in schools, and a teens own sense of vulnerability. Some teens define sex as only intercourse, yet other types of intimate behavior, like oral sex, can spread many diseases. The CDC tests teens for four types of STDs; the human papillomavirus (HPV), a sexually transmitted disease caused by genital skin-to-skin contact, chlamydia caused by bacteria after having sexual intercourse, trichomoniasis, a sexually transmitted infection caused by parasites, and genital herpes, a sexually transmitted viral infection. After testing these teens, the highest STD rate was for HPV. There are more than 100 different types of HPV, and 30 of those 100 are sexually transmitted diseases. Most people that have HPV do not develop symptoms or health problems, and 90 percent of known cases, the immune system

clears, without medicine, within two years. Sometimes the infections are not cleared and can cause genital warts, and in rare cases, warts in the throat, a condition called recurrent respiratory papillomatosis, or RRP. In children it is called juvenile-onset RRP, or JORRP. This can cause cervical cancer, or other less serious, but common,

cancers of the vagina or penis. HPV that can cause genital warts is not the same as the types that can cause cancer. There is no way of knowing who will get HPV will go on to develop cancer, any who will never show any signs of health problems. Doctors have now come out with an HPV vaccine for both men and women that protects you from the most HPV cases that are known to cause cervical cancer and genital warts. The two types of vaccines are

Gardasil and Cervarix. These vaccines protect you from HPV types 16 and 18, which cause 7 out of 10 cases of cervical cancer. Gardasil vaccine can also protect you from types 6 and 11 which causes 9 out of 10 cases of genital warts. These two vaccines make your bodies immune system produce antibodies that fight HPV viruses. The HPV vaccines are given in a series of 3 shots. One will get the second shot two months after the first shot, and then get the third shot four months after the second shot. In all it takes up to 6 months to receive all 3 shots. For men, all three doses need to be the same vaccine. But for women, it is best to get 3 doses of the same vaccine, if that is not an option, either vaccine can be given. Both HPV vaccines with protect one from getting this transmitted disease for up to at least 5 years. HPV is most common in adolescence between the ages of 18-24. That does not mean it is not being spread among the younger teens, but that it is just showing to be higher in this age bracket. All teens need to be alert of this rapidly spreading disease. For all teens: be aware, be educated, and be safe.

Student Life

Announcements Prom Committee The BHS prom committee is selling Benton Cardinal decals for $12. All proceeds go towards Benton’s 2011-2012 junior/senior prom. Help make this prom a memorable one!

ACT Events and Deadlines ACT Test Dates Deadlines: February 11, 2012 April 14, 2012 June 9, 2012 Registration Deadlines: January 13, 2012 March 9, 2012 May 4, 2012 BHS ACT Academy Application Deadline: January 13, 2012 March 14, 2012

Girls Soccer Pre-season soccer conditioning will begin after school on January 14, 2012. Conditioning will be Mon-Thurs and is recommended for all girls not involved in a winter sport. Make sure to bring both indoor and outdoor clothes; weather conditions will determine where running will take place. Indoor soccer will begin Saturday, December 3, 2011 at 11:30 am in the BHS gym, and will continue every Saturday until February 25, 2012, with the exception of holiday and winter sports activities. Practices for spring girls soccer season will begin Monday, February 27, 2012 at Spring Garden Middle School (weather permitting). You must have a physical and concussion screening on file with the school in order to practice. Player will NOT be allowed to practice without either of these. All information regarding girls soccer can be found on the BHS website by going to: http://sjsd.schoolwires.net/benton. See Coach Bosch in room 216 for questions.

Senior Goodbyes The 2011-2012 yearbook is offering Senior Goodbyes. Each goodbye can include up to 35 words and a wallet sized picture for $35.00. (Do not send your only copy of the photo.) Checks should be made to Benton High School-Yearbook. We MUST receive your Senior Goodbye wish and check by December 16, 2011 to be included in the 2011-2012 yearbook. Any late senior goodbyes will not be accepted. *Any message deemed inappropriate will be edited by the advisor. Send senior goodbyes to: Benton High School Lynn Laipple, Yearbook 5655 S. 4th Street St. Joseph, Mo. 64505

Winter Homecoming Rescheduled The winter Homecoming game has been rescheduled to Friday, February 10, 2012. The dance will follow on Saturday, February 11, 2012 beginning at 7:00 pm.

Pound Plunge Winners by Briana Michaud Congratulations to the “Pudgy Purple Ponies” for winning first place in this year’s Pound Plunge contest. Team members included Ms. Jennifer Schultz, Ms. Amber Welter, freshman Adriana Lembke, senior Samantha Lundy, junior David Murphy, and sophomore Kaylin Schultz. The Pudgy Purple Ponies lost an accumulated total of 48.1 pounds, or 24.32% body fat. “Team American”, consisting of Sergeant Jesse Rivera, Major Brian

Stackhouse, sophomore Gwen Worm, sophomore Jake Smith, and junior Caitlin Curso, won second place in the Pound Plunge competition. This eight week competition was hosted by Coach Roseberry, and the PE department, to help teachers and students get into shape and get healthy. Throughout the eight week competition, several members of the YMCA came in and hosted Zumba, Pilates, healthy eating classes, and more.

Participants were also given tickets to use the YMCA and YWCA, for free, during the competition. First place winners won a 30 minute scenic airplane tour of St. Joseph and the surrounding area, 6 month membership to Club Fit, gift certificates to Xtreme Efx Hair Salon, coupons for Bode Ice Arena, and much, much more! Thank you to Coach Roseberry and all the participants for making the Pound Plunge such a huge success!

What are your New Year’s Plans? “My family has a huge party with family and friends! And getting the kiss at midnight!” ~Senior Brad (Boo) Steltenpohl “I am going to hang out with friends.” ~Freshman Dalton Lawrence “I am going to hang with friends, have a little party with them, watch the ball drop, and shoot off fireworks.” ~Freshman Ashley Higgins “I am going to have my brothers and sisters come over and play board games, while babysitting.” ~Mr. Shavnore “I am going to have a party at my house and hang with Jake and watch the ball drop.” ~Freshman Baylee Shubert “I am going to my boyfriend’s families New Year’s party.” ~Junior Taylor Garton “Spending time with my family and sleeping.” ~Sophomore Cameron Pike “Run in a 5k at midnight in Liberty, Mo.” ~Mr. Dial ”Spending time with my family and drinking sparkling grape juice.” ~Senior Stephanie Crawford “Partying with my peeps!” ~Senior Ayriah Collins “I’m going to eat and pass out!” ~Sophomore Trinity Dowell “Watch football and spend time with my hot, smokin’ wife and wonderful children.” ~Coach Taybor “I am going to hang out with my best friend, Cheyanne.” ~Freshman Dallas Blanton

Features

TOP 10 CHRISTMAS GIFTS OF 2011 by Daniel Stephan #10 Gift Baskets Don’t waste your time buying a pre-assembled gift basket. Put a whole slue of things together to personalize the basket to make it the best gift for your friends and family. #9 Pre-Paid Holiday Parents love nothing more than to have their children pay for a holiday get away, This might be something that only happens when mom and dad have retired, but it is one of the great thoughtful gifts that you can’t buy at the store, especially if it is somewhere they've always dreamed of going. Cruises are very popular choices for pre-paid holiday gifts. #8 Gift Certificates Gift Cards are one of the most convenient and useful gifts to give to your friends this holiday season. It allows kids to choose what they really want. Pre-paid shopping cards, or charge cards, are the best of the best when it comes to gift cards, they do not restrict a person to one specific location to shop. This has been one of the top 10 Christmas gifts for years. Popular food gift cards include those to places like Starbucks, McDonald’s, Wendy's, and Burger King. #7 Accessories The age of technology has arrived and technology is easy to accessorize, my friend. Game consoles, iPods, iPads, and cars all go better with accessories to make them your own personal toys. #6 DVDs and Blu-Ray DVDs are a convenient, and cheap, way to entertain your family and friends. They allow a quick access to a wide variety of feature length and short films. #5 iPods Apple's iPod product has remained a force to be reckoned with.New iPods have more storage and features than the older models, but the same enjoyment comes from having this portable entertainment. Electronic buffs always want the newest models and features, so be mindful about purchasing outdated models. #4 Digital Cameras Digital cameras range anywhere from $99 on up into the higher hundreds. There is definitely a large price range when it comes to cameras, and age is a big factor when it comes to purchasing a camera as a gift for someone else, especially for a younger child. Older children and adults will take better care of a camera than most younger kids, and cameras like cell phones are prone to being dropped and lost. If a younger child is interested in cameras, check out the drop-proof digital cameras that are now available. #3 Nintendo Wii Nintendo hangs in there at number three and is the leading system for a family game console. Wii is fun for all age groups, but doesn't attempt to make things look real like some other game platforms. They stay in the realm of cartoon and animated graphics keeping kids hooked on its style. Along with intense gaming, it also offers intense exercise. The WiiFit bundle is one of a high stature. It is essentially a personal trainer in a box. The Wii also allows streaming of movies from the Internet. #2 Smart Phones Especially popular with youngsters and teens is the latest and greatest in cell phones. Every year the technology within the phone is upgraded tremendously, and the operating systems run on the phone upgrade and update periodically throughout the year. Because there are so many different smart phones out there, this might be one of those gifts you want to research well to find out what your teen really wants in a phone. It might involve asking their friends.Text messaging features are essential, and having online access is also important so they can access Facebook, and other popular social media sites. With online access, your child may also be able to access, and look at, their school grades, directly from their smart phone. #1 Apple iPad and Amazon Kindle Topping the list is the Apple iPad and the Amazon Kindle, two of the most popular gifts of 2011, sharing the top spot. These are gifts that work for kids, adults, students, professionals, or anyone else with a need for a laptop, iPod, or books on the go.The Apple iPad has everything going for it including great graphics, a long battery life, and it is compatible with hundreds of apps. The Amazon Kindle has a world of books and recipes, as well as textbooks for college and high school students. Gift recipients will love the ability to surf the Internet, run slide shows, stay organized, check email, jot down notes, watch movies, read books, and just about anything else you can think of for these attractive tablets to do.

Student Life

Come Join Us! by Cheyanne Mast

Thinking about joining a club but aren’t sure which one is the right fit for you? Here’s a list of just some of the clubs and organizations Benton High School has to offer! FBLA-FBLA stands for Future Business Leaders of America.It is a professional business organization that students join to work on job skills, compete in events, learn about business, and complete community service projects. This club is led by Mr. Turner and Mrs. Talbot and meets every “white” Thursday of the month. Interact-This club is a lot like Rotary. Students perform two service projects, one international and one community. Led by Mr. Turner and Mrs. Snapp, this club brings together business and professional leaders to provide humanitarian service, encourage high ethical standards in all vocations, and help build goodwill and peace in the world. Interact meets every first and third Tuesday of the month. Oasis Gaming Club-If you are a huge video game, board game, or card game fanatic, then this club is right for you. Nintendo Wii, Xbox, and other games are available. See Mrs. Corey for more information. Playwrights Group-Do you enjoy writing? How about drama? If so, then consider joining the Playwrights Group. This club gets meets on Thursdays to share scripts Benton students have written, and give feedback to help them improve.This clubs goal is to write plays that can be produced for the one act festival in May. Playwrights Group is led by Mrs. Schultz. Information on meeting times and locations are always posted on the call board outside of the theatre.

New Year’s Resolutions “Don’t stress and have more fun.” ~Ms. Herbert “Come to school more.” ~Junior Trenton Younger “Get a job and save up money for a vacation.” ~Junior Jessica James “Choose what college I want to go to and save up money for a short vacation.” ~Senior Bethany Domann “Get into shape and try not to sweat the small stuff.” ~Mrs. Michaud

Art Club-One of the newest clubs to join the list, art club is for all art lovers and meets the first Wednesday of every month, after school, in room A120. Contact Mrs. Davis or Mrs. Read for more information. Polar Bear Club-If you’re a student or teacher who is interested in getting, or staying, in shape, then this club is right for you. Led by Mr. Dial and Mrs. Nash, this club meets every Monday and Wednesday in room 206, then heads out into the cold, winter weather to run 2-5 miles. This club is active now through mid-February. Science Club-Are you into science? Mrs. Nash would like to know any student interested in joining a science club here at Benton. If interested, please let Mrs. Nash know! NHS-This organization is nationwide and promotes scholarships, leadership, character, and service. Any junior or senior can be inducted into this organization if they carry a 3.0 GPA or above, have a total of 16 school and/or community service points, and approval by the staff and administration. Any student interested in this organization must have the above requirements and fill out an application. NHS meets the first Wednesday of every month at 7 a.m. Times may vary according to members.

Phantom of the Opera by Brittany Boggess On November 11, 2011, the Benton theater department performed the hit play, Phantom of the Opera. For those of you who do not know what Phantom of the Opera is, it’s a story about a disfigured musical genius, hidden away in the Paris opera house, who tends to terrorize the opera company for an unwritten benefit of a young woman the phantom trains and loves. Benton’s performance of this classic was a huge hit and a big success. The theatre department received a lot of feedback and compliments from teachers, administrators, and students throughout the district. Congratulations to the cast, crew, directors Mrs. Shultz and Mrs. Welter, and anyone else who made this play such a huge success!

“Not get fat...er.” ~Mr Dial “Save up on money to get a Lamborghini and a mansion, and party with Victoria’s Secret models.” ~Junior Jakey Lian “To have a happy 2012 and do my best.” ~Freshman Tye Jeffers “To have better grades.” ~Freshman Autumn Berry “To play more video games.” ~Sophomore Kayleigh Peregrine “To get taller.” ~Payge Embrey

Art Mural to be Displayed in St. Joseph by Kaelynn Burchett

After receiving a generous grant this year, Benton High School’s AP art students, school offenders, and art teacher, Mrs. Davis, will be creating a mural on the south side bridge on 2nd street in St. Joseph. The mural design will represent St. Joseph’s history and will include scenes representing the Pony Express, Jesse James, and more. The mural is scheduled to be completed sometime in the spring.

Sports

Coach of the Year By Sami Kretzer Kimble has built up his cross country Congratulations to Benton’s own legacy here at Benton High School for cross country coach, Duane Kimble, for (insert years), and is very well-known winning this year’s and respected throughout Coach of the Year! the district. This only Kimble has been a makes fitting that he is coach since 1987, recognized for those leading 18 MEC team accomplishments with a championships and has “Coach of the Year” coached 8 All-State title. cross country runners. Coach Kimble, we Kimble won Coach of would like to say the Year for the congratulations, and 2011-2012 season, good luck, in all your beating out Lafayette’s seasons to come! basketball coach Chris Neff, Central’s basketball coach Kevin Picture courtesy of St. Joseph News Press Kelley, St. Joseph Christian’s basketball David Johnson, and Bishop LeBlond’s soccer coach Ken Girard.

NCA TOP 25 1. Syracuse 2. Ohio State 3. Kentucky 4. Louisville 5. North Carolina 6. Baylor 7. Duke 8. Xavier 9. Connecticut 10. Missouri 11. Marquette 12. Kansas 13. Florida 14. Wisconsin 15. Pittsburgh 16. Georgetown 17. Mississippi State 18. Indiana 19. Illinois 20. Michigan 21. Michigan State 22. Texas A&M 23. Alabama 24. Murray State 25. Creighton 25. Vanderbilt

Benton Debaters Compete in Finals by Briana Michaud

On Friday, December 2, Benton’s debate team traveled to Kearney to compete in their annual tournament. Three of Benton’s own made it to finals; freshmen Baylee Schubert and Crystal Carter with their duo interpretation, and sophomore McKynzie Inscho with her original oratory. The next debate tournament will be held on January 13-14, 2012 at Liberty High School in Liberty, Mo.

(From left to right) Back row: McKynzie Inscho (so.), Cameron Pike (so.), Crystal Carter (fr.), Aryia Lewendowski (sr.) Front row: Stephanie Crawford (sr.), Trinity Dowell (so.), Baylee Schubert (fr.)

SENI O R SPOTLIGHT Q: What is your favorite memory from your high school basketball career? A: “In Harrisonville, we acted as if we were throwing a Michael Jackson concert and all the ball girls went outside the hotel, while me, Br, and Shelbee stayed inside and performed through the window. I was Michael Jackson, and Bre and Shelbee were my back up dancers.” ~Sydney Wilkinson, Girl’s Basketball Q: What is your favorite memory from your high school basketball career? A: “I will miss most my underclassmen teammates and all the jokes and wins we have had together. I will miss my brother, Quin.” ~Tyler Fredrickson, Boy’s Basketball Q: What is your favorite memory from your high school wrestling career? A: “I will miss the team, the matches, and Coach! He has pushed us so far to become the best we can be!” ~Jessie Walters, Wrestling

Sports

Congratulations to the 2011-2012 Varsity Teams by Jourdain Brooks Several tried out, but only a few are chosen. Here are your 2011-2012 winter sports varsity teams.

Boys Basketball

Wrestling Last Name

Weight

Year

Chance

First Name

Barnes

170

Nick

Bowen

152

Jake Keegan

Chellew

160

Cunningham

138

Noah

Diaz

220

Matt

Garza

132

Cecil

Leivan

120

First Name Last Name Height Year

Tyler

McNutt

145

Ryan

Mitchell

6' 2"

Daltyn

Phelps

160

Jered

Ross

5' 9"

Gaige

Reynolds

285

11 Brad

Steltenpohl 5' 9"

Tyler

Rich

182

13 Dontae

White

5' 3"

Mason

Robinson

182

15 Chris

Young

6' 1"

Arron

Seward

132

21 Michael

Whitt

6' 1"

Adam

Seward

113

23 Lucas

Powers

5' 11"

Keone

Snapp

120

31 Dalton

Dreier

6' 3"

Jesse

Walters

126

33 Seth

Pfleiderer

6' 4"

35 Eric

Davidson

5' 11"

41 Tyler

Fredrickson 6' 5"

51 Will

Sexton

6' 4"

Girls Basketball #

First Name Last Name Height Year

Sydney

Wilkinson

Mallory

McAndrews 5' 6"

10 Andee

Wahlert

5' 5"

Lucy

Mollett

5' 6"

Kenzie

Musser

5' 6"

20 Erin

Riddle

5' 6"

24 Paige

Kneale

5' 6"

30 Shelby

Ewart

5' 9"

32 Bethany

Domann

5' 9"

34 Morgan

Domann

5' 8"

40 Lindsay

Doolan

5' 9"

42 Savannah

Domann

5' 10"

44 Lauryn

Doolan

5' 11"

5' 4"

LSU, Alabama Set for Rematch by Jered Ross January 9, 2012 will be the second showdown between two defensive powerhouses. LSU and Alabama will play for the second time this season, but this one is for all the marbles as the two teams collide for the 2012 BCS National Championship Game. LSU, the SEC Champions, found a home at the number 1 spot, and managed

to keep that spot throughout the season. The first time these two teams met gave fans a lowscoring 9 to 6 defensive battle that

was won by a last second field goal by the Tigers. No. 1 LSU, and No. 2 Alabama, will meet, once again, in what is hoped to be

another match fans wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t soon forget. They will meet for the last time this season as no. 1 and no. 2 in the 2012 AllState BCS National Championship game. You can check out this match-up on Monday, January 9, 2012, on ESPN at 7:30 pm.

Sports

Winter Sports Take Off by Jered Ross Boys and girls winter sports has started at full force. With basketball and wrestling underway, and a few games under their belt, Benton winter teams are in it to win. Benton girls basketball began their season opener against the Raytown Bluejays in Raytown, Missouri. After a 36-34 loss, the Cardinal girls showed they weren’t ones to stay down coming back with wins in their second, and third games of the season against Harrisonville High School and LeBlond High School. “I feel that we have started this season off well. I feel like the team this year has good potential to do great things.” said junior Andee Wahlert. The next game for the girls is Friday, December 16, at the Civic Arena, against Central High School. This game is part of the City Showcase tournament that began on December 15. The boys basketball team has new coaching this year. Coach Ross, who before taking the head coaching position here at Benton, coached at Benedictine College. The Benton boys basketball team has faced a tough line-up so far and currently holds a record of 0-5. Despite the tough competition, the team has come a long way. Their next game is December 16, at the Civic Arena, against Central High School. The Cardinal wrestling team has an impressive of 4-4. The team is all-over victorious over Plattsburg, Maysville, Marceline, and Penney Hamilton. Benton wrestlers also won their home quad on December 8. Junior Cecil Leivan said, “This season we have a lot of really good, new freshman wrestlers on varsity which makes our team just all-around better and more powerful. We are looking forward to a really good season.” The next match for the Benton wrestlers is December 16-17 at the Harrisonville Tournament in Harrisonville, Missouri. With that motivation and high spirits. we wish all the teams the best of luck in their upcoming games and matches. Good luck winter Cardinal athletes!

Sophomore Tyler McNutt

Senior Sydney Wilkinson

Seniors Brad Steltenpohl and Brad Frederickson

Senior Jessie Walters

Junior Lauryn Doolan Junior Adam Seward

Junior Erin Riddle Sophomore Chance Barnes

Senior Tyler Fredrickson

Obesity on the Rise Among Teens Teen Pregnancy on the Rise and Adolescents by Emily Cox

by Emily Cox

According to a study done by the University of Maryland, and the children’s hospital, the United States has the highest teen pregnancy rate in the world. The Center for Disease Control (CDC), says that one-third of girls get pregnant before the age of 20. Recently, in the last five years we have seen this number increase dramatically. Numbers were down at one time, but now they are steadily rising. There are 750,000 teen pregnancies that occur annually. Eight in ten of these pregnancies are unintentional, and 81 percent are to unmarried teens. If you are a teen thinking about having sex, the best way to prevent an unwanted pregnancy is to educate yourself on the different forms of contraceptive. You can get information by asking your doctor, school nurse, or health teacher. Be responsible and take that extra step. There are always ways to prevent it from happening, but after it’s happened, you can’t go back. Be safe, be smart, and be educated

Childhood obesity is a growing problem worldwide. Figuring out how to help children eat a healthy diet to avoid obesity is even more challenging. With food industries are constantly bombarding consumers with a variety of sugary snacks, finger foods, and unhealthy drinks, it’s hard to stay healthy. A study that involved 3,098 children, between the ages of 3 and 6 years old, showed that excess weight causes an increase in heart disease in children as young as two years old. “Obesity has increased from 5 percent in the 1970’s to 12.4 percent today in preschoolers ages 2 to 5. In children ages 6 to 11, it went from 4 percent to 17 percent and the 12- to 19-year-olds, from 6 to 17.6 percent,” says Leah Holbrook MS, RD, clinical instructor of family medicine and Heart Links project coordinator for the department of family medicine at SUNY Stony Brook in Stony Brook, N.Y. It’s never too soon to stress the importance of healthy eating habits. The trend towards obesity may begin as early as 6 months of age. A guide to healthy diets can be found at the USDA’s “My Pyramid for Kids”. But if you are not sure how to apply those ideas, Holbrook advises talking to your doctor.

Facts on Teen Pregnancy: • Teenage mothers are more likely to drop out of high school. • 2/3 of teens will be, and remain, single parents throughout their life. • Three-quarters of a million teens, between ages 15 and 19, become pregnant each year. • 2/3 of teen pregnancies occur among teens 18-19 years of age. • Teen mothers account for 11% of all births in the US. • Out of all teen pregnancies, 57% end in birth; another 14% end in miscarriage. • African-American teens account for the highest teen pregnancy rate. • Teens who become pregnant are less likely to attend college. To find out more information you can visit: http:// www.plannedparenthood.org. In St. Joseph: Family Guidance Center 1322 N 36th Street Saint Joseph, Mo. 64506 (816) 233-1402 Health Department Patee Hall 904 S. 10th St St. Joseph, MO 64501 (816) 271-4636

Tips for Healthy Eating: • Toss the sweet drinks. Sugary drinks such as soda, sweet tea, juice, and sweetened milk are a major source of unnecessary calories in the diet. Offer plain, low-fat milk or water instead. • Eat at home more. “When you eat out, you almost always get more calories and fat than if you eat at home,” says Holbrook. • Exercise together. “Children should have an hour of physical activity a day.” says Holbrook. A good suggestion is taking a walk, or having family fun in the park. • Ask your parents or doctor about healthy food choices. Educate yourself about a healthy diet. Find out the correct portion size, and why whole-grain crackers, fruits, vegetables, and low-fat dairy snacks are better for you than cookies, candy bars, or potato chips. After you have educated yourself, practice this and keep healthy foods in the home. Matters at School It is equally important to make sure you’re eating well at school. You may have to work to create a healthy lunch, taking lunch from home, and choosing healthy snack options, will show a major improvement in your overall health and energy.

Reviews

Book Reviews by Leetha Rowe

Tiger’s Voyage By Colleen Houck Nineteen year old Kelsey embarks on her third quest with her two tigers, Ren and Kishan. With the curse still in tact, Ren still can’t remember his relationship with Kelsey, and being around her makes him sick. With all the stressors, Kelsey also has to deal with dragons and sharks throughout her journey. How will her journey end? Will she be able to choose who she wants to become for the rest of her life? Either way, she must choose soon. “ . . . shocking, heart-rending, soul-tearing . . .” ~Kirkus Reviews This book is better then “A pat of butter meltin’ all over a stack of griddle cakes.” ~Leetha Rowe

The Morganville Vampires By: Rachel Caine It appears Claire Danvers has it all. At age 16, she’s been accepted into MIT, Yale, and Caltech. Unfortunately, Claire’s parents think she’s too young to go to such big school’s so they send her to a small town college in Morganville, Texas After Claire encounters some horrible girls on campus, she tries to find somewhere to stay even though her parents will he horrified. While searching, she stumbles upon an ad asking for a roommate. She finds out all too quickly the scary secrets of not only Morganville, but of Michael, her new roommate, as well. "A fast-moving series where there's always a surprise just around every dark corner." -Darque Reviews I rate this book 4 stars because of the new and terrifying things Claire finds out about Morganville, and for the things she will do for the three people she has only just met.

January 2012 Music Releases by Leetha Rowe

January 24th

January 1st

January 17th

Let’s Go Eat the Factory ~Guided by Voices

This Means War ~Attack Attack!

January 3rd

CYRK ~Cat Le Bon

Forgiveness is a Weapon ~Archer Black January 10th If ~Bill Ryder-Jones From the Vanishing Point ~Red Wanting Blue

The Ascent ~Secrets Future This ~The Big Pink Purple Naked Ladies ~The Internet Cast Your Stone ~Walter Rose

Yours Truly, Cellophane Nose ~Beth Jeans Houghton Bhiman ~Bhi Bhiman Something ~Chairlift Attack on Memory ~Cloud Nothing Clear Heart Full Eyes ~Craig Finn Human Again ~Ingrid Michaelson Provincial ~John K. Samson The Stars are Indifferent to Astronomy ~Nada Surf City of Vultures ~Porcelain Raft

January 31st Rad TImes Xpress IV ~Black Bananas Escort ~Escort 100 Acres of Sycamore ~Flonn Regan Feel the Sound ~Imperial Teen Old Ideas ~Leonard Cohen Out of Frequency ~The Steroids Galaxy Tour Form 7 Control ~The Phenomenal Handclap Band

1815 N. Belt HWY St. Joseph, MO. 64506

Benton Football Coach Taybor Coach Dial Coach Johnson Coach Glawson Coach McCoy

Coach Fowler Coach Burton Coach Paolillo Coach McCammy Coach Hubbard

Home of the Cardinals !

Legacy Stables God First, Horses Second 2012 Summer Camps Jamie & Tammy Noll 7765 N.W. Hwy NN Stewartsville, Missouri 64990 (816) 424-6309 (816) 294-3651 www.myhorsecamp.net

No horses! Ride one of ours!

Boarding, lessons, camps. It can all be found at Legacy Stables

All ages and experiences welcome.

Ad Donations Mrs. Carol Stephenson Mr. and Mrs. David Stegall ADVERTISE WITH US! Interested in advertising your business in the monthly editions of The Bentonian? If so, contact us at: (816) 671-4030, or briana.michaud@sjsd.k12.mo. us for more details!