March EHS Bugle

The Bugle The student newspaper of Eureka High School

4525 Highway 109 Eureka, MO 63025 • www.ehsbugle.com • volume 76 • issue 6 • March 15, 2012

Soaring around the globe Students explain the diverse areas to which they are traveling... pg. 8-9

Grabbing the title

Matt McClimens wins State Title, Gentry places sixth...pg. 10

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Too close to call Eureka looks to improve locker rooms with new bond issue, Prop R...pg. 2

photo by dane roper

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dane roper

Crowding the locker room, team sports students try to get to their lockers to change, Feb. 15. “A lot of people have to take turns changing, and you have to wait for people to get out of your way before you can get to your locker,” Matt Molengraft (12) said.

Too close to call

dane roper writer

Eureka looks to improve locker rooms with new bond issue, Prop R

news

Changing in a tight space after a workout is like trying to change while locked in a car trunk filled with someone else’s gym socks.

Lack of space on an aging campus creates new problems as EHS’ student body continues to grow.

Eureka’s current locker rooms were built in 1970 when the school only had approximately 486 students compared to the current student body of 1,949.

“It’s really hard to change when everyone is in the locker room,” Preston Meyer (9) said. “A lot of arguments happen because we don’t have enough space and kids start to get frustrated.”

If taxpayers vote for Rockwood School District’s latest bond issue, Prop R, April 3, these problems and others may be addressed in the near future.

“One of the major additions we’ll get if the bond issue passes is renovations in extending the space of our locker rooms,” Ms. Deborah Asher, head principal, said. “That is something that’s been sorely needed for a while because we outgrew those facilities quite some time ago.”

The $43.2 million bond will support three priority areas: technology, safety measures and infrastructure and maintenance of current facilities, according to the district website.

Aged campuses are part of the reason that renovations and additions are frequently needed since only nine of Rockwood’s 36 buildings have been constructed within the last 20 years, according to the district website’s chronology of facilities.

“Rockwood has always been a district that has had— in its top level of importance—keeping our students safe and keeping our buildings in good repair,” Ms. Shirley Broz, chief financial officer for Rockwood, said during a phone interview, Feb. 15. “Many of our buildings are 30 to 60 years old, so keeping up an older building certainly continues to require funds.”

The future of the bond is not certain.

“I feel like the last bond issue was used towards so many unnecessary things and with the new bond issue they are just getting more unnecessary things,” Dillon Sandhu (12) said. “When I look at all of the proposed projects for the campus, I don’t want any of them and I don’t think we need any of them. ‘Aged student computers’ I haven’t had a problem with. I don’t even know what computers those are referring to.”

Research and planning goes into each renovation that is approved for the bond issue to ensure that each

project is necessary.

“There is a long-range planning committee districtwide. It’s made up of teachers, administrators, parents, community members—a bunch of different people—and they look at all the needs of the school,” Ms. Asher said.

“Each school has a long-range facilities plan, as well, that we review annually to prioritize what our biggest needs are. If there’s a project that can wait, then it gets put on the waiting list. If it’s something that needs to be prioritized immediately, then it moves in front of the line.”

The fate of such projects and renovations lies entirely in the hands of voters living within the district as the bond issue must be approved by Rockwood residents. Within the community, however, Proposition R has been met with mixed reviews.

“People are extremely sensitive and aware of the debt that’s being built up by any kind of government entity that is supported by tax dollars,” Ms. Eileen Tyrrell, spokesperson for the Rockwood Stakeholders for Real Solutions coalition, said during a phone interview, March 12. “It is true when you say Prop R is a no tax increase bond. The taxes don’t go up, but the debt extends out. Every year we pay money to the bond debt that won’t change for a good 10 years. Continually adding new bond issues means paying this debt is never going to end. It just strings the debt out longer.”

While increasing debt is not ideal, failure to pass bond issues would have major repercussions within the district.

“If the bond issue doesn’t pass then we will have to use operating funds for necessary repairs and will need to look at continuing to take costs out of our budget which will become more painful than the prior reductions,” Ms. Broz said. “It absolutely will include a review of staff because we spend so many of our dollars on salaries and benefits, so that’s the area that we will have to look at for changes.”

Cutting staff members is not the solution Rockwood wants.

“Our teachers are some of the best in the state and the country, and you have to be able to pay your staff and improve your curriculum,” Ms. Janet Strate, Rockwood board of education president, said during a phone interview, Feb. 10. “With all the budget cuts we’ve done, we’ve fallen behind on improving our curriculum. To stay world class, it’s going to take money to fund world class education.”

Bond issues relieve stress placed on the operating budget since Rockwood’s operating tax levy that funds

operating expenses has not been changed since 1994 and ranks twelfth in comparison to other St. Louis County school districts’ property tax rates.

“I think bond issues should be supported because bond issues help improve our schools, and improving schools improves the community, and improving the community brings more people to the community, so it’s all good for the community’s economy,” Cole Bestgen (11) said. “It builds up our school and it’s for us. It allows students to hope for a better school for everyone.”

Improvements to Rockwood schools affects the whole community.

“The Rockwood citizens have a really big investment in our buildings and educating the children,” Ms. Strate said. “Bond issue improvements help their property values stay high. If the quality of our school district declines, it will not be a place that people look to move to.”

In fact, the bond issues that Rockwood propose help avoid an increase in taxes that would be necessary if the bond issue is not approved.

“Even though Rockwood has taken a lot of costs out of operating expenses in the last five years, we are still spending more than we are taking in, which is not a position that can be sustained,” Ms. Broz said. “We’re trying to work out of it, but because we don’t foresee an increase in operating revenue, Rockwood does not have $20 million worth of operating funds for major expenditures that are needed annually. If the bond issue doesn’t pass then we will have to look to our voters for a referendum to increase our operating tax levy so that we have more operating dollars to use for these kinds of repairs or additions or renovations that the bond issue dollars would have paid for if it had passed.”

The district has cut $22,374,160 since FY2008-2009 to balance its budget and has dipped into its savings, but those measures still do not address its dwindling revenues.

“What really caused great problems was when we headed into the recession back in 2009,” Ms. Strate said. “Property values dropped, Chrysler completely left and the state of Missouri cut their funding to us.”

Tough economic times has led to less revenue and a crunched budget. To avoid needing to spend more money from an operating budget with less revenue, Prop R is Rockwood’s solution.

Rockwood voters will decide the future of EHS’ locker rooms, April 3.

Ashlynn Gunhus, Rebecca Weitzel, Christina Quartenik (10) walk past the history mural near the social studies hallway during passing period, March 13. Painted on the right side of the wall is the face of Martin Luther King Jr. and the immortal words of his ‘I have a dream‘ speech. “Martin Luther King is the most important person in African American history because he came out of his box and pushed for their rights and did it in a non-violent way.,” Gunhus said.

“He had a dream and was going to accomplish that dream. We should all be equal.”

hannah wischmeier editor-in-chief

African American History Month honors past struggles

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Walking through history hannah wischmeier

not confined to the month of February.

“We try to bring out the history of minorities and specifically African Americans throughout the year,” Mr. Bryan Clar, Social Studies department chair, said. “There is always something we can do to find that voice that has not been heard.”

The necessity for an African American History Month is derived from the long roots of enslavement and repression that entangled the lives of African Americans.

“This past year I did a diversity cohort with Rockwood,” Ms. Emily Hause, Spanish teacher, said. “I really learned about racism and oppression and how our black students have been affected. A lot of our students don’t even know that they have institutionalized racism. It is the racism and segregation that resulted from the government system and laws that were made that is still internalized by the people in a certain respect.”

The main players in African American history are captured in the snapshot of the past and presented to students from an early age.

“When I was in elementary school we would do facts of the day where we would have to answer ‘who said this’ or ‘who did this,’” Williams said. “It serves as a reminder of what happened and how we got here.”

Despite the emphasis on the basics of African American History Month in school, the segregation of African American history and general American history is seen as a peculiar nuisance by some.

“I feel like it’s cool to have a specific month for African American history, but I do think it could be more integrated into regular history,” Jarrell Cunningham (12) said. “I feel like African American history is more centered in this month. We don’t really talk about it that much.”

The designation of a separate month for African

“I think anything that highlights the achievements of minorities is a great idea.”

—Mr. Bryan Clar

American recognition has raised some discussion as to the absence of other minority-honoring months. There is also an argument that African American history should not be confined to a month but should be celebrated with the rest of American history throughout the year.

“I think anything that highlights the achievements of minorities is a great idea,” Mr. Clar said. “I would argue that we look at the large minorities in America that have been silenced. It isn’t just a bunch of dead white guys that have had an impact on this country.”

Part of African American History Month is honoring the lengths that society has progressed to reach the level of acceptance enjoyed today.

“I have actually talked to students about the race issue, and many students don’t even see race as a factor, which is awesome,” Mr. Andrew Ribbing, science teacher, said. “Talking to my grandparents and even my parents who lived through the time of change in the 50s and 60s, it’s a night and day difference of where we are today. I don’t think you have as much ill will toward other people, at this point.”

However far along society’s mindset has come, racism is still present and a problem for some.

“I have noticed that more in St. Louis, it is a little bit segregated because you have the city kids and the suburban kids,” Ashlynn Gunhus (10) said. “There should be a better mixture of where everyone lives.”

The demographic differences between the county and the city of St. Louis are due, in part, to past racism.

St. Louis is the seventh most segregated city in the country, according to censusscope.org.

“My grandmother would not go past highway forty,” Mrs. Kara Mueller, Language Arts teacher, said. “People believed your life was in danger if you went South of forty. This town is still extraordinarily segregated. St. Louis is definately an area where we need more communication because of the clear dividing line between North and South.”

African American History Month serves to reflect on progress, but also works to eliminate future problems.

“I think when we stop addressing people as African Americans and when we stop even thinking about race, then we have arrived at full equality,” Mr. Clar said.

news

The picture frames and trinkets of a room reflect the life, memories and values of the people who reside within it. Pictures are a reminder of the past experiences and lessons learned.

Like a snapshot of the past, African American History Month serves as an acknowledgement of the culture and contributions of African Americans in history.

“I know that African American History Month is February and that it is to honor African American people,” Charles Dieckhaus (9) said. “I think there is an African American History Month to display all of the great things that African Americans have done in our history.”

African American History Week began in February of 1926, according to africanamericanhistorymonth. gov. The celebration was extended to a month in 1976.

“There have been a lot of African American people who have shaped America in many forms,” Kyle Edwards (10) said. “African American History Month is a way to celebrate their accomplishments.”

The purpose of African American History Month is to pay tribute to the individuals who fought for their right to be equal under the law.

“It’s important to celebrate African American History Month so that people know what African Americans have been through,” Ashanti Williams (10) said.

“We learn history so that we won’t repeat it. It’s important to celebrate African American history so that we won’t repeat the oppression.”

Lesser-known acheivements by African Americans are honored throughout this month.

“There are a lot of things that African Americans did that most people don’t know,” Marshae’ Landers (11) said. “I just found out that an African American created the stoplight. I did not know that.”

The honoring of African American accomplishments is

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Reaching out, coming together casey walker writer

The GayStraight Alliance works toward acceptance GSA members walk into a group hug for Mrs. Diane Bashirian, art teacher, after she came in to pledge her support for the group, Feb 29. With teachers like Mrs. Diane Bashirian offering their alliance to the group, GSA members are able to feel more comfortable in the school environment. “I think we’re just working to to try to show that an alliance is possible,” Krull said. “It’s not a big deal, some people are straight and some people are gay.”

casey walker

community.

“I think at this age everyone is having to find their own identity,” Ms. Bosomworth said. “Now that they’ve identified that this is who they are, they’re coming to terms with that. It’s important for them to feel comfortable in their own skins.”

Mr. Matt Nosko, Ms. Bosomworth’s close friend, visited the group and spoke about being accepted as a gay individual, Feb 8.

“Gay is what I am, but gay is not who I am,” Mr. Nosko said at the meeting.

His main message to the group was that not everyone is going to be accepting, and that’s okay. He emphasized that it’s important to be the best example for the community.

“The main point of the GSA is bringing people together and showing that there are different people out there,” Hughes said. “It’s okay to be different.”

The group advocates is that GSA is not just a gay group, it’s an alliance.

“I think it’s very important for us to have a group that’s not just a gay group but an acceptance group,” Ms. Asher said. “I want to see more of the mainstream student leaders get more involved.”

Danielle Sax (9) said that her main reasoning for attending the GSA meetings was because she can just be herself around everyone.

The Gay Straight Alliance is looking for more straight students to join to help the alliance aspect of the group.

“It’s important for everyone to have allies because I think then you’re not discluded, and you’re part of a community,” Ms. Bosomworth said. “Here at Eureka we say we’re such a great community, but then I see people being bullied for all sorts of different reasons.”

Decreasing bullying is a main emphasis of GSA. They try to achieve this goal by teaching acceptance for all people whether it is sexual orientation, religious belief or skin color.

GSA’s goal is to make sure that all members know that they are accepted and in an open environment.

They have their work cut out for them.

“Hopefully, the effect of the GSA is that all of the hatred and bullying is just ignorance that can be fixed with just simply educating people.”

—Justin Nedvin

“The tops of the hallways were covered in GSA posters, but you can see that there are barely any now, which shows that there are people ripping them down,” Sax said. “It disappointed me that people can’t just go along with how other people are.”

When the signs were first posted with information about the Gay-Straight Alliance, there were a group of students who tore down some of the signs.

“I was working through the Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network to help me get going, and they told me to be prepared because that will happen,” Ms. Asher said. “It did, and it was very frustrating. They got torn down, and we put them up higher so they were harder to reach. I ended up being able to pinpoint when they went missing and were vandalized.”

The administration spoke to the students vandalizing the signs. The majority of them apologized for their actions, according to Ms. Asher. Since then, the GSA hasn’t seen any more outward expressions of intolerance.

“There’s a difference between having an opinion and being a hateful person. That is the important message of the GSA,” Ms. Bosomworth said. “It’s okay to have your own opinion, but when you harm someone emotionally or physically or harass them, that’s not okay.”

Initially, students not involved in GSA were unsure as to what GSA was and what the group stood for, which led to distrust.

“There will always be a few people who are shocked about it or not really for it, but that’s okay,” Hughes said.

Even though some may not support the message, it’s important that everyone understands it. The members work to educate all staff and faculty members.

“The GSA is important because it raises awareness not only among the students but among the faculty,” Nedvin said. “Hopefully the effect of the GSA is that all of the hatred and bullying is just ignorance that can be fixed with just simply educating people.”

GSA communicates their message by participating in national advocacy days like the Day of Silence, April 12, and the Transgender Remembrance Day, Nov 20.

“The Day of Silence is to honor and echo back the silence because people don’t always speak up for bullying so people won’t talk for the whole day,” Olivia Krull (10) said. “On the Transgender Remembrance Day we made ribbons that said words like ‘understanding’ and ‘acceptance’ and passed them out.”

Focusing on subjects like understanding and acceptance, the GSA reaches out to every student no matter what their differences may be.

clubs

Forty-four percent of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer students have been physically harrassed at school because of percieved sexual orientation, according to Based on a school climate survey conducted by the Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network as many institutions of higher education cite.

Gay-Straight Alliances around the country look to provide a safe place for gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender individuals so that the suicide and bullying rates decrease.

“Giving kids a place to go where they can be accepted whether they are gay or straight will cut down on teen suicides as long as they’re able to get support,” Justin Nedvin (10) said.

With this move toward equality, high school groups like the GSA are pushing for equality and acceptance in schools.

Ms. Deborah Asher, head principal, helped start the Gay-Straight Alliance at EHS this year when students came to her with the idea.

“I thought it was important to recognize the students and get it started,” Asher said.

Since GSA has grown and Ms. Asher has other duties as principal, Ms. Bosomworth, science teacher, has stepped in to sponsor the group.

GSA meets every Wednesday in the conference room in the main office.

“We talk about life stories, visit a few websites and talk about what’s going on presently in the government,” Travis Hughes (12) said. “If someone is having an issue with their family or friend, we will talk it out.”

The GSA is an open forum where members sit and discuss topics and events.

“We just talk about events that are going on, like in Washington they’re going to have gay marriage and New York just got it,” said. “We also talk about problems people may face, like coming out to their parents.”

A main focus of GSA is to promote talking about current problems and situations to make students that face adversity feel comfortable talking in a safe

Robotics balances intelligence, teamwork

clubs

Building a robot is like writing an essay.

Both require planning and time.Only once all the elements are gathered and hooked with wires or transitions does the project come together.

Unlike writing an essay in language arts class, robotics isn’t just a club that relies on a person’s mental ability but also a person’s ability to work with a team toward one solution with speed and effectiveness.

“The main thing that I’ve enjoyed about Robotics is that you have to use mental application to figure out a solution to a problem,” Tyler Piccinni-Ash (12) said. “It takes mental ability to actually create the robot itself, but you need a social connection as the same time. It’s about teamwork, as many things are.”

Most students who participate in Robotics in and out of EHS have had an interest that’s predated their high school experience. Students can get involved in robotics as early as kindergarten, with Junior F.I.R.S.T, an acronym For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology, LEGO League.

Students compete in the LEGO League through eighth grade, then graduate to F.I.R.S.T Tech Challenge (FTC) or the F.I.R.S.T Robotics Competition, which is a varsity version of FTC. Each high school in the Rockwood district has its own robotics team that competes for a spot in the F.I.R.S.T Championships. In the U.S. alone, there are 2,150 participating teams from 49 states.

“I started robotics during the summer of my sixth grade year,” Vineeth Bhuvanagiri (12) said. “When many people think of robotics, they think it’s just building or programming when it’s so much more than that. There’s a problemsolving aspect. I see engineering as a venue to approach a problem in many different ways, and that’s what I really love about robotics.”

There are many instances that separate robotics from other after-school activities.

The club is divided into three teams: Bosons, Mesons and Quarks, all named after different subatomic particles. This year’s state robots were named 3658, by the Bosons, 3592 by the Mesons and 3591 by the Quarks. A team known as the Oddly Charged Particles consisting of students from various school also qualified with their robot 2888.

The theme for this year’s state competition was Rebound Rumble, a game similar to basketball. All robots could take balls to score points, but the Quarks’ robot 3591 served also as a defender that blocked other teams from scoring.

Building a robot for a competition is no small task.

“What really goes into making a robot is how well we communicate,” PiccinniAsh said. “We can’t just shoot down ideas. We cooperate towards one goal.”

F.I.R.S.T., founded in 1989, has 2,075 teams and is active in 12 countries as of 2011.

jessica meszaros

Christopher Colletti (11) and Matthew Schlittler (9) spend time building the Quarks’ robot 3591 during an

after-school meeting, Feb. 7. “Sometimes we’ll create a design or pattern that doesn’t work out in the end, so in addition

to being creative, you have to find out what’s working, then change your strategy based off of that,” Colletti said.

jessica meszaros

Robotics member Tyler Piccinni-Ash (12) works after school on the construction and mechanics of one of the

team’s robots, Feb. 7.

“Building the robot is a big part of the club, but you also need to socialize with your teammates,”

The main idea behind F.I.R.S.T. is to motivate interested students to pursue careers dealing with science technology and engineering all while teaching knowledge and perseverance. The F.I.R.S.T. State Championship was held, Feb. 25, and the F.I.R.S.T. International Championship will take place at the Edward Jones Dome, April 26.

“Last year we were State Champions,” Mr. Robert Spellmeyer, engineering teacher, said. “That

Piccinni-Ash said.

“Because of that, all kinds of people can participate and improve their skills and interact with others.”

was amazing. They won every match, and then went on to the International Championship. They got to meet students from nations all over the world. There was a team from Mexico beside us, a team from the Netherlands behind us, and other teams from China, Israel and Japan.”

The club also acts as a venue for students to unleash their imaginations.

“The most important thing is being creative,” Christopher Colletti (11)

jessica meszaros writer

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Building a solution

said. “You should always try ideas or concepts that have never been done before and try to make them work.”

While Robotics is labeled as a club, it encompasses many qualities of athletics.

“When we go to competitions, you always learn about what other students have done, and it inspires you,” Mr. Spellmeyer said. “It’s very gratifying to see that the team members are so excited for the competitions. You get ideas on how to modify your own creation, and you can earn more points. It’s just like fine-tuning an offense or defense in any sport.”

Despite having been State Champions in 2011 and taking second at State this year, robotics is still a fairly obscure club.

“When I first heard of robotics, I thought it would just be all about building and math,” Kasey Manley (11) said. “I’ve heard about the club before, but I don’t hear much about their achievements. I think a lot of people prioritize, so because most people know more about sports than robotics, we hear more about athletes.”

Students interested in robotics can pursue those interests in the classroom, as well. Classes on the subject are also offered for students who want to test their skills in the realm of engineering.

“They’re really great,” Jacob A. Tucker (10) said. “If you have a question, Mr. Spellmeyer will answer it for you and help you come to a conclusion.

For anyone interested in science or engineering, it’s worth a try.”

A number of members plan to continue on with robotics after graduation.

“Robotics has furthered my interest,” Coletti said. “I’ve always been interested in science and engineering, and robotics has made me really excited about becoming an engineer after college. I’m getting to see my ideas on paper turn into a physical object that can work well.”

Newer robotics members are spurred on by previous achievements of more experienced members.

“I was at freshman orientation, and I saw their table set up with all their information,” Jacob M. Tucker (9) said. “There were a lot of freshman that signed up, but I followed through with it because it looked interesting and I’d already taken engineering classes in middle school.”

Although the robotics club is still somewhat unknown, the club’s impressive achievements are beginning to catch the attention of students.

“I’ve heard about the club a couple of times,” Mitchell Muszalski (9) said.

“I haven’t heard much, but they definitely should be recognized more. They went to State and, just like athletes, they put in a lot of work and tried really hard to get there.”

With the previous successes of the team and rising recognition from the student body, the EHS robotics teams have built the foundation to excel forward unhindered.

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Soaring arou

Students explain the diverse areas graphics by maddie sanden

Josh Brown (11)

spotlight

photo courtesy of josh brown

A typical spring break is a tropical vacation, or spending time away somewhere warm and sunny. Brown feels quite the opposite. “I’m going to Colorado to go skiing during my spring break,” Brown said. “I really enjoy going skiing and I go every year. I don’t really go to Hidden Valley much compared to Colorado. Colorado is a big difference from Hidden Valley because it’s so much better since the hills are bigger and the snow is actually real.”

While Brown is in Colorado, he plans on spending the majority of his time skiing, and possibly even go cross country skiing. “I’m most excited to see the snowfall because it’s over 110 inches this year, which is a ton of snow,” Brown said. Although many would cringe at the thought of snow on spring break, it will be a winter wonderland for Brown.

Lauren Schultz (12)

photo by sylvia weiss

Lauren Oliver (

While others may be traveling away from home for their spring break, one student will be visiting her future home. Schultz will be vacationing to Fort Worth, Texas to visit Texas Christian University (TCU) with her family. “I’ve finally decided to go there for sure,” Schultz said. “I’m really excited to visit the college. This is my second time visiting.

I’m excited to just be at the college and see what it’s like since now I know that I’m going there next year.” Knowing she will be in the same setting soon enough next year, Schultz will get a good feel as to what it will be like in that environment.

“I don’t really have any other plans besides seeing the college and visiting some family down in Texas while I’m there,” Schultz said.

Along the breathtaking coasts of the island of Aruba, a beach-lover’s par Aruba this spring break with my fam some family friends,” Oliver said. “W we’ve just never been there before. the Internet different places to go an never been to the Caribbean before to Aruba.” Aruba is a small island, anyone can enjoy numerous activitie family travel; yet Aruba will surely b “We’re going to snorkel, which I ha extremely fun because it’s an easy w at underwater wildlife,” Oliver said. diving, which I’ve never tried before for it. I’m just most excited to be in t be on the beach and go tanning.”

s to which they are traveling photo by sylvia weiss

Samantha Greaney (10)

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und the globe sylvia weiss writer

The Eureka band has another exhilarating trip planned for its members. Last year the lucky students traveled to New York.

This year the members will have the privilege to take a trip to Chicago. Although the trip is optional, the band members are so close that it makes the trip difficult to not tag along. “I’m really excited to just hang out with friends there and be away for a few nights,” Greaney said. “I’m really close with the band. I’m with them so much every single day that you get really close naturally.” While the band is there they will be playing in a band festival with other schools and possibly be involved in numerous competitions. “Besides playing, we haven’t planned exactly what we’re going to do yet, but we will find things to do,” Greaney said. “We’re most likely just going to do sight-seeing things around the streets of Chicago.” Greaney will be sure not to miss a note this spring break with the Eureka band.

Nathan Vorel (11) and Adam Vorel (9)

(11)

e Caribbean falls the radise. “I’m going to mily, my boyfriend and We’re going because We researched on nd we realized we’ve e, so we decided to go with beaches where es. Oliver and her be a new experience. ave done before and it’s way to get a close look . “We might try scuba e, so I’m a little nervous the warm weather and

Adam and Nathan Vorel’s fantastic voyage includes traveling to several exotic countries. “We’re taking a cruise out of New Orleans to Cosmo, Mexico, Jamaica and Progreso, Mexico” Adam said. “While we’re there we’re also going to be taking an excursion in Jamaica to a private beach resort.” Although they’re excited for the cruise, this is not their first. Last year the Vorel’s enjoyed a Carnival Cruise and loved it so much that they planned this Caribbean cruise the day they got back from the other cruise. “This will actually be our fourth cruise,” Nathan said. “I’m really excited for this particular cruise because it’s going to be a lot longer.

We will be gone for a whole week.” With several activities planned for the brothers, one specific event sticks out to Nathan. “I know one thing we’re doing that I’m pretty excited for is that we may be going

swimming with the sting rays on one of the islands,” Nathan said. While the brothers are on their cruise to several tropical countries they will be on the water constantly enjoying events such as snorkeling, scuba diving, and visiting other islands such as Cozumel. “I’m really excited to just be on the beach,” Adam said.

“I’m really excited to go because I’m going with my family, grandparents and some family friends, which will make it a fun time.” Away from school, the boys will have time to sit back and relax on the cruise. “My favorite part of a cruise is actually just lying around,” Nathan said. “When you’re on the islands they can look around at the scenery, enjoy the beach and shop a little bit at the stores. I’m most excited to just be able to relax on the cruise because I’ve been so busy lately with school and basketball.”

spotlight

photo by sylvia weiss

photo by sylvia weiss

brendan vogel writer

10

Grabbing the title

Matt McClimens wins State Title, Gentry earns 6th place

photos by taylor emery

Luke Gentry battles his Oakville oppenent, Dec. 16. “I didn’t have the natural talent when I first started,” Gentry said. “I made myself better through hard work and dedication.”

sports

On the east wall of the wrestling room, the names of some of the best wrestlers to ever walk through the halls of EHS are painted. Each of those wrestlers has placed in the highly-coveted state wrestling tournament during their tenure.

Two more names can now be added to the elite company of EHS’s decorated wrestling past. Matt McClimens (182 lb) and Luke Gentry (160 lb) both established themselves as prominant wrestlers when they placed in the state wrestling tournament.

Matt McClimens went 5-0 in the tournament and became just the fourth wrestler in EHS history to win a state title joining Matt Lester (2008-2009), Nick Lester(2008-2009) and Riley Baker (2001).

“I was very excited, but it took a while for it all to sink in,” Matt said. “It is an honor to be associated with those other guys; they’re truly great.”

The season has been about hard work and dedication for Matt.

Conveniently for him, he has an edge that most other wrestlers would die for. Brother and fellow wrestler Luke McClimens has been by his side the entire season.

“My teammates helped me a lot throughout the season,” Matt said. “My best teammate was definitely my brother Luke. He was my drill partner every day in practice and kept me motivated at all times.”

Matt posted an astonishing record of 45-1 this season. His domination of his opponents proved that he is truly a man among boys in the 182-pound division.

His determination to win is something that his coach, Tim Yancey, believes is one of the reasons for his success during the season.

“Matt is a dynamic wrestler,” Mr. Tim Yancey, head coach, said. “Many wrestlers are not as aggressive as Matt, and that is what separates him from most of the wrestlers in the state.”

The coaching that Matt received is just another step into the creation of the State Champion wrestler.

“My coaches helped me a lot with different techniques, like turning people and defending riding legs,” Matt said. “The things that I learned were crucial to my success this year.”

In addition to the stellar performance of Matt, Gentry posted a strong sixth place finish at State and received his first State medal.

Gentry finished the season with a solid 28-8 record.

He, too, proved his status as an elite member the 160pound weight class. Gentry showed his prowess all year long by being a superior competitor night in and night out.

“It was an awesome feeling,” Gentry said. “It is something that I have wanted to accomplish ever since I was a little kid when I first started wrestling.”

Gentry will join Matt on the wall of All-State wrestlers

Matt McClimens grapples with an oppenent at the teams’ meet at Fox, Jan. 18. McClimens went on to win the match and impress his teammates throughout the season. “Matt is one of the best wrestlers that I have been on a team with,” David “Luke” Seiler said. “The way he dominates his opponents is really remarkable and electrifying. His desire to win and unwillingness to give up is what sets him apart from the rest.” Matt McClimens has a chance to earn back-to-back state titles.

“It would be awesome to win it all again,” McClimens said. “I mean to win it once was really incredible, but if I get the opportunity to win it again, it would be a huge chance for me to do something truly great.” Just like this year, it will be the hardwork and desire to succeed that will push McClimens to the highest levels of wrestling and once again win him a state title.

of Eureka.

Moreover Gentry, like Matt, also has family that has been close to him during this wrestling season.

Mr Mark Gentry, Luke’s father, is also the assistant varsity coach and as helped Luke develop into the phenomenal athlete that he has become.

“Luke has a great work ethic in the practice room,” Coach Gentry said. “He gives his all in every drill. He also spends a great deal of time wrestling in the spring and summer to prepare for the winter season. On the mat he never quits. He is very intense.”

Gentry fought through three years of season-ending injuries and an earlier injury this season to finally push through and make it to the State tournament.

“I was extremely down and depressed when I reinjured my shoulder for a third year in a row,” Luke said. “I probably wouldn’t have been able to recover without my teammates.”

To give an idea how great their accomplishment truly is, consider the fact that at the start of the District tournament there are 56 wrestlers per weight class in Class 4. Those that survive the District tournament make up the final 16 that move on to the State tournament in Columbia. Ten of those wrestlers get eliminated.

The final six are the placers that make up the All-State list.

Along with Matt and Luke, four other wrestlers made the trip to State this year.

David “Luke” Seiler (120 lb), Levi Littman (132 lb), Darius Terrell (138 lb) and Luke McClimens (195 lb) ended their seasons amongst the best wrestlers in the state.

This season has been one of true greatness and accomplishment for the wrestling team. This has been one of the greatest seasons in EHS wrestling history thanks to the devotion and hard work of the state wrestlers.

Swimming and diving finishes at State Team stats

Members

Place at State

Time/score

200 meter freestyle/ medley relay teams

Stephanie Mueller (11), Emily Muggleton (10), Candice Vorbeck (9) and Ashley Bushnell (12)

31st/26th

200 IM/100 Breast

Muggleton

36th/30th

2:22.52/ 1:11.83

2:19.74/ 1:11.75

Diving

Gracie Bollinger (9)

24th

Score of 149.15

Score of 219.85

1:45.39 and 1:59.56

Qualifying time/score 1:46.59 and 1:59.99

America’s pastime is back in rhythm for the Wildcats as they prepare for a year with high expectations after last year’s District Title. The team’s outlook couldn’t be any clearer.

“Win State or bust,” Mark Hencken, catcher, said. “It’s as simple as that.”

Hencken’s attitude is shared by the rest of the team.

“The first goal is to have fun, and we’re all going to do that by playing for each other,” Mr. James Daffron, varsity head coach, said.

“You have to play for everyone because it’s a team sport. Your success is your team’s success.”

The game requires mental and physical abilities not always apparent to the sideline fan.

“It’s a really athletic sport,” Josh Stephens, outfielder, said. “You have to be athletic to play, but there’s also a mental aspect of it. You have to think about what you’re going to do with the ball before and after you get it.”

These boys live, breathe and sleep the game.

“I’ve been playing baseball since I was five years old,” Stephens said. “My dad signed me up, and I kept playing because I loved it so much.

Just the feel of playing the sport is great.”

The suspense that is naturally incorporated into the sport also sets baseball apart from other sports.

“One thing that really makes baseball special is that when the game is on the line, you have to give the other team a chance,” Trevor Fain, shortstop, said. “You can try to hold the ball in

other sports, but in baseball you have to pitch it to the person and give the other team their chance.

That’s one of the most exciting things about the game.”

Most of the players on the team have played with each other for years beforehand. This team’s roots are deep.

“We’ll be in the dug-out and will have a good time during the games,” Sam Plank, utility, said. “You become a lot closer with your teammates during the season than a lot of other sports. We have great team chemistry.”

An important aspect of playing as a team is also contributing on an individual level.

“My personal goal is to not make any errors, but the team’s main goal would definitely be to win the State Championship,” Plank said. “We’ve got a lot of returning seniors, and we have a lot of talent on the team. We have a good shot.”

In order for the team to be ready for their tough competition, they are preparing to practice when most students are relaxing. For spring break, team members are traveling with their coach to play in Florida where they will practice twice a day.

Time in Florida is also a great chance to improve an already strong team chemistry.

“For me, baseball is one of those sports that never gets boring,” Bryan MacGavin, first base, said. “There are always new experiences and always new people to meet.

The team’s first game is Parkway West, against Dunahue at 4:15 p.m., March 16.

jessica meszaros brendan vogel writers

Baseball team revs up for a run at State Championship

11

Playing for pride

jessica meszaros

Warming up for practice, Matt Dunavant, pitcher/first base; Jake Curran, catcher; Dillion Britt, outfielder, and Aaron Schnurbusch, pitcher/outfielder, have high

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hopes. The Wildcats are off to a solid start, being ranked sixth in the Missouri High School Coaches Association poll behind #1 Vianney, who ended the Wildcat’s season last year.

Brown for Board As a former Wildcat teacher and coach,

I would appreciate your support for Rockwood Board of Education.

Thanks,

William “Bill” Brown

Spring Positions Available

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madison sanden production editor

Students work to make the grade

Accepting success

Many students need a little extra time with their teachers to grasp the concepts being taught. When students need the help, teachers come in early and stay after to help them really grasp the material. Teacher help comes totally free to students, but takes much time for both parties. “I get here every morning at 7:30 and rarely leave before 4,” Mrs. Cynthia Sieloff, math teacher, said. “I think that there are a lot of students who don’t want to ask in front of the class—they want to talk one on one. I think most students get things better one on one.” Because of this, students and teachers dedicate extra time to learning and understanding material. Even though coming in early may not be appealing, it proves worthwhile in the end if students can be successful in class.

Tutoring

Sometimes, all it takes to learn is another way of hearing the information. Because of this, many students use tutors to help them succeed. “I have been seeing my tutor for about 10 years now,” Lauren Wright (11) said. “I don’t think I would be as strong in math if I hadn’t had her help, especially in the beginning.” For Wright’s private tutor, each one hour session costs $35 and she generally has about one or two sessions each month. However, for places like Sylvan, ACT sessions cost around $30 an hour. Spending time with a tutor helps students to spend more one on one time learning the material and gives them individualized practice with the material they are struggling with.

Hard work

+ =

Most success stories revolve around hours of dedication and hard work. According to a survey of 103 EHS students, 28.2% of students spend 2 hours on homework every evening and 17.5% spend 3 hours. 7.8% of students spend 5 hours or more on homework each night. When scholasitic success is most important to students, they are willing to put forth much effort to attain it. “Academics are really important to me,” Maleah Brown (9) said. “I feel like doing homework and studying is necessary to understand the information and stay with the class, so that I don’t get behind.” Buying the desire to succeed is impossible, but investing time in reviewing class notes, making flashcards and reading textbooks precedes many high school success stories.

academics

+ +

When tons of information has to be studied, many students turn to review books to help them learn the information. Princeton AP review books cost $11-$44 on amazon.com and ACT review books are $12-$37 on amazon.com. While they may seem pricey, these workbooks are invaluable for the summaries, study tips, and practice tests they provide. “They give a good overview of what we have learned,” Jacob Martin (10) said. “They are supposed to help you get a better score on the final exam which I definitely feel it will help me get.” Review books can also be helpful with learning the information for tests during the school year because they summarize what students read in their textbooks and hear during class.

Teacher help

All of her acceptance letters in hand, Taylor Schulz (12) represents the epitome of high school success. With 12 acceptance letters, Schulz is still aspiring to attend Vanderbilt University in the fall. She applied to a total of 14 colleges and is waiting to hear from two of them.

The reason for her high school success revolves around her dedication to working hard and striving to be the best she can be all the time. “I think it’s about a lot of hard work and dedication,” Schulz said. “Going in to high school my freshman year, I knew I wanted to focus on my school work first.

I still have fun, but I also set aside time every day to study. I would say a lot of organization has been the key.” For other students pushing for a high level of success, smart planning proves central to being able succeed. “Make sure you only sign up for as much as you can handle otherwise you will overexert yourself,” Schulz said. “It’s very important to be committed to what you can handle.”

13

Review books

maddie sanden

all photos by maddie sanden

The Bugle Staff

outlook

Passing 10,000,000 points in Temple Run is one of the more satisfying achievements for a typical high school student. However, there are times when passing that milestone requires a little extra help from the Temple Run store. Spending the extra coins for the 1,000 meter boost gives the extra edge required to reach that high-point mark.

School district officials often face the challenges Temple Run users struggle with. When a high expectation is set, it takes every ounce of available resources to meet the goal. In the case of Temple Run, players buy a boost, but for the district to meet their goals, money becomes the most important resource in living up to patron expectations.

Since there is no store to purchase power ups in the real world, the board of education has proposed a bond issue to acquire the funds the district needs.

As the district has become further burdened by budget pressures, a bond issue is necessary.

For Rockwood voters, the financial health and security of the district should be a top priority.

It’s no surprise that Rockwood has some of the nicest facilities and the highest-performaces schools available.

Anyone who has ever been to a nonRockwood high school would tell you that most of their facilities pale in comparison to our abundance of SMARTBoards, laptops and newly renovated classrooms.

Students value these education tools and without them our quality of education would be greatly diminished.

In order to maintain the best education, a bond issue is necessary.

Dissenters of the bond issue claim that the taxpayers in Rockwood will eventually have to pay for the money that is borrowed. However, they should editor-in-chief hannah wischmeier production editor madison sanden writers kelsey fairchild jessica meszaros dane roper

also consider that if the bond issue doesn’t pass, a referendum will be put forth to voters asking for an increase in the tax levy.

If the bond issue does pass, this will give Rockwood a chance to pay back the borrowed money without having to increase taxes.

Passing the bond issue will keep taxes low and maintain a high quality of education.

Not passing the bond issue will mean teacher layoffs with fewer class choices and larger class sizes for students.

Since an increase in taxes pleases no one, a bond issue will help to keep all homeowners, students and staff members happy.

The health of the community relies on the quality of education Rockwood schools provide. The median property value in Rockwood as of a 2011 report by the St. Louis County Assessor was $246,900 and Rockwood was the only district in St. Louis county with an increase in property values, boasting a .78% increase, according to stlouisrealestatenews.com.

Rockwood’s property values remain high because of the world- class education students receive. If the community wants to continue to bring people in and better our community, our schools need to remain in the best.

The bond issue will allow for our schools—and curricula—to continue being some of the best in the area by providing necessary repairs that will prevent costly budget cuts. This in turn helps the economics of the community by keeping property values high.

If Rockwood was an iPhone app, players would purchase power ups to help maintain their record of success.

However, the real world doesn’t have power ups, so the district is counting on voters to help them to continue scoring big for the sake of Rockwood students.

mary tomlinson brendan vogel casey walker sylvia weiss video production editor-in-chief erin mikel video production

nick hoeflinger kalin preston stats manager gabby adams ads manager michael mclaughlin adviser elisha strecker

The Wisch List Invisible problems

Kony campaign will not fix Africa

Invisiblechildreninc uploaded a video named “KONY 2012” to YouTube.com, March 5. As of March 11, the video had been viewed 72,433,716 times and commented on 609,898 times.

The video is the introduction of a social campaign to arrest Mr. Joseph Kony, a war lord that has abducted over 30,000 children from their homes, forcing them into sex slavery and violence in Central Africa.

The campaign KONY 2012 is seeking to stop Mr. Kony by making him famous, “not to celebrate him, but to raise support for his arrest,” according to kony2012.com.

In a matter of 30 minutes, the ‘KONY 2012’ video lays out a course of action to give the Ugandan government more money and supplies to catch Mr. Kony.

Contrary to common belief, this plan is not a true solution for Central African violence.

Invisible Children, the corporation sponsoring the KONY 2012 campaign, seeks to end the use of child-soldiers in Africa through advocacy and film.

The company, however, used less than 40 percent of its profits for direct help to Central Africa in the 2011 fiscal year, according to the group’s financial reports. The rest of revenue was spent on awareness programs, awareness products, management, fundraising and media/film creation.

Donating money to Invisible Children inc. will not necessarily help the children of Central Africa. The money going through this corporation will more likely go to making posters and bracelets to raise awareness of Mr. Kony.

Don’t get me wrong. Advocacy and awareness are unnecessary. However, Mr. Kony is not the problem; he is a The primary obligation of The Bugle is to create a quality publication to inform its readers about events in the school and community and of issues of national or international importance which directly or indirectly affect the school population.

The Bugle, while serving as a training ground for future journalists as part of the school curriculum, recognizes all rights and responsibilities under the First Amendment and strives to establish and maintain standards outlined by the Society of Professional Journalists.

The Bugle is a public forum.

Student editors apply professional standards and ethics for decision making as they take on the responsibility for content and production of the newspaper.

While the student staff encourages constructive criticism of any part

hannah wischmeier editor-in-chief

Staff editorial

14

Staying on top

A bond issue proves necessary to maintain world class education

product of the problem.

The capture of Mr. Kony by the Ugandan army will not end violence in Central Africa because violence and rebellion are instilled in the very government of Uganda.

In 1986, Uganda’s current president, Mr. Yoweri Museveni, came into power because of a violent insurgent revolution that included civilian violence and atrocities, according to state.gov.

In 2005, the Ugandan constitution was amended to nix term limits. This coupled with supposed corrupt elections has secured President Museveni’s power, according to state.gov.

The true problem lies in the poverty and political corruption that has plagued Africa for decades.

In order to fix the injustice in Africa, these problems must be addressed.

The extraordinary element of the KONY 2012 campaign is the rapid passion that has gripped the masses.

Despite the fundamental flaws and peculiarities of the campaign, KONY 2012 has fascinated the nation.

This film is a testament to the power of social media. Through the use of emotional ploys, shocking imagery and impressive editing, the co-founder of Invisible Children, Jason Russell, has convinced the masses that this plan will be enough to fix the problems in Africa.

Invisible Children is no different than Apple inc. in the eyes of the IRS. And yet, our generation has taken this video and wholeheartedly invested in the corporation without verifying the logic of the plan.

If our generation is truly serious about solving the problems and atrocities of Central Africa, making one evil man famous is not enough.

of the newspaper, authority for content rests in the hands of the student members of the newspaper staff.

Students will not publish material considered to be legally unprotected speech, or libel, obscenity, material disruption of the school process, copyright infringement or unwarranted invasion of privacy.

Letters to the editor are encouraged by students, faculty and the community. Letters must be signed but names can be withheld upon request. Letters must not exceed 250 words and The Bugle reserves the right to reject, edit or shorten as necessary.

Opinions expressed on the editorial page do not necessarily reflect the viewpoints or official policies of the school administration. All editorials (unsigned) represent a majority

opinion of the Editorial Board.

Members of the Editorial Board include all staff editors. Signed editorials, columns, editorial cartoons and reviews reflect the views of the author and not those of the editorial board.

The Bugle reserves the right to refuse any business which seeks to advertise any product which is illegal or generally considered unhealthy or undesirable for students as determined by the Editorial Board. The Bugle may choose to publish public service ads at the discretion of the Editorial Board. The Bugle will print political ads which comply with federal, state and local campaign laws.

The Bugle is a member of Sponsors of School Publications of Greater St. Louis, the Journalism Education Association and the National Scholastic Press Association.

mary tomlinson writer

Looking into St. Louis’ characteristic question

photo illustration by mary tomlinson

To those driving by Eureka High school, the image of country hick or farm kids comes to mind. The source of this idea is hard to nail

with EHS at one time or another.

“Eureka’s stereotype is hicks,” Jessica McNeel (9) said. “At football games, there’ll be the John Deere chants and stuff. Other schools make fun of the fact that we’re hicks and that we live in the country, so we do those chants because we think it’s funny.”

Stereotypes are generalizations that distort people.

Misrepresentation is easy when the actual people are lost to a stereotype.

“People thought that we came to school on tractors,” Mrs. Jenni Highfill, Class of 1988, said. “And even back when I was in high school, we did not come to school on tractors.”

However, assumptions that stem from stereotypes, while they give an initial negative impression, don’t negate new interactions between stangers.

“I’m sure people draw associations that I go to a hick school,” Tinen said. “But very rarely have I met someone who’s like ‘I’m not going to be friends with you because you go to Eureka.’ They’ll be like ‘Oh, you’re a little hick,’ but we become friends and that’s fine.”

If these stereotypes don’t have a hindering effect on conversations or relationships, then it is possible the “Where did you go to high school?” question isn’t a bad St. Louis trait.

The purpose behind the question is not to isolate people based on judgements but to get them to open up to find out more about them.

“I think it’s a good thing because then you get to know the background of where they grew up or what kind of area or place they grew up in,” Katie Schaefer (11)

Other St. Louis features

mary tomlinson

down to something substantial. ”I just think stereotypes are passed from what people grow up hearing,” Mr. Lamason said. “Let’s say someone’s

Toasted ravs. T-ravs. Though it is difficult to decide on what to call them, everyone can agree that toasted raviolis are a delectable St. Louis tradition.

It is a scary thought then to think that St. Louis’s culinary claim to fame might not exist if it weren’t for a fortunate mistake. “Toasted raviolis came from a resturaunt called Angelo’s, which is now Charlie Gitto’s on the Hill,” Emma Coleman, a Charile Gitto’s from the Hill employee, said.

“What happened in 1947 was the cook accidently dumped the raviolis into the fryer. They went ahead and served them, and they became a big hit.” Since then, toasted raviolis have grown to be syonymous with St. Louis and can be found on the menu of many resturaunts, as well as Eureka High School’s menu. So here St. Louis is over 60 years later, still repeating the chef’s same mistake.

never been to Lafayette or Eureka or a different school. They just hear what other people say. It just gets blown out of proportion.”

said.

Having a go-to question like ‘Where did you go to high school?’ that says a lot about a person makes starting and continuing conversations a breeze.

“It gives you a point of reference of where they’re from,” Michael Allman (11) said. “You can bring up different points of discussion topics, like ‘Oh, have you been to this restaurant?’”

The question could even come in handy as a networking tool, which is especially important in a spread-out city like St. Louis.

“I think it’s a good thing to ask because it helps you build those mutual connections, and that might build the relationship,” Tinen said. “I think it’s convenient to be able to connect with people like that.”

Because of the variety in the population, St. Louisans have just become naturally curious about the backgrounds of others.

This curiosity evolved into the trademark question of St. Louis. However, finding this openess to difference in other cities may be a difficult task.

“When I used to live in Kentucky, people didn’t want to be friends with you if you weren’t like them, but here there are lots of different people,” Stevens said.

“Everybody was kind of the same in Kentucky. Here, it’s more accepting of everybody.”

The acceptance St. Louisans show of difference should not be taken for granted.

Whichever way the wind blows, whatever the ‘Where did you go to high school?’ question may say or not say about St. Louis, it is intrinsic to St. Louis’ unique culture.

Food and tunes that make St. Louis stand out

mary tomlinson

entertainment

Every morning students wake up at the crack of dawn and pick out a flannel shirt and some Wrangler jeans from their farmer-themed closet.

They then head outside to feel the wind blowing across the corn fields and feed the chickens and milk the cows.

To get to school, they choose between a pick-up truck and a John Deere tractor.

This is Eureka High School.

At least, according to Eureka’s stereotype.

There are 84 high schools in the St. Louis area. Where someone goes to high school affects how others perceive them, whether it is as a country hick or a city snob.

The question “Where did you go to high school?” weaves its way into any native St. Louisan’s conversations. Anyone who lives in St. Louis can be guaranteed to encounter this question.

“If I talk to people outside of school, they ask where I go,” Allie Stevens (10) said. “I am basically asked any time I meet someone new.”

In St. Louis, even beyond the graduation date, where someone went to high school follows them everywhere.

“I’m not asked as often now because I’m older,” Mr. Chadd Lamason, PE teacher, said. “Back when I first moved here, when I was younger, I was asked pretty much once a week. Any time you met somebody new who was from St. Louis they’d ask ‘Where did you go to high school?’ It was one of the main questions that was asked.”

There is a reason this trait has evolved in St. Louis.

The diversity of the counties within the St. Louis area has created a variety of high school labels.

“It’s not like the whole city is rich or poor,” Grace Wildenhaus (12) said. “In different areas you can find different lifestyles, such as farmers, upper-middle class or city. There is a lot of diversity in St. Louis.”

Diversity adds to a city. Unfortunately, it also has the potential to create problems. Differences can cause people to be skeptical of others who aren’t like them.

“I’m sure there are people out there that might be from a more well-to-do area that look down on somebody who’s from Eureka, Pacific or South County,” Mr. Lamason said.

Even within the district, students look down on other district schools.

“Lafayette’s seen as kind of snobby,” Connor Tinen (12) said. “And no one cares about Summit.”

Most students have come across the label associated

15

Putting stereotypes in park

A rap star who rose from humble roots in the streets of St. Louis, Nelly has become the icon for modern music in St. Louis. Born Cornell Haynes, Jr., Nelly grew up in a gritty part of St. Louis City before moving to University City. His passion for basketball and music kept him out of trouble. After realizing his talent for music as a young adult, Nelly formed rap group the St. Lunatics in 1995. The group had some success, though everyone in the group could see that Nelly had the true potential for a career. And were they right. His first full album, “Country Grammar,” topped the Billboard charts less than two months after its release. He is known for his albums “Nellyville” and “Brass Knuckles” and hit songs “Hot in Herre” and “Grillz.” Nelly has always been a popular musical figure for St. Louis because he has stayed true to his St. Louis roots and has put the city on the map.

16

Spring fever means music

Upcoming concerts of favorite bands attract students Andrew Bird

The Black Keys

Radiohead appeared at the Scottrade Center for the first time since 2008, March 9. Their memorable performances make their appearance much anticipated.

“I absolutely love Radiohead,” Mrs. Medrala, Language Arts teacher, said. “I saw them in concert about five years ago, and it was just one of the best concerts I have ever been to.”

Even those who have never seen them perform are anxious to finally see the band live.

“I am most excited because I have waited five years to see them,” Michael Doherty (11) said.

Their current tour, which travels through the United States, Europe, Australia and Japan, promotes their newest album “The King of Lambs.”

Tickets were priced at $75.

The Pageant, a concert venue on Delmar, will be hosting Andrew Bird at 8 p.m., March 22 as part of his tour through the United States and the United Kingdom.

“Andrew bird is one of my favorite musicians because he’s really talented,” Ian Bailey (11) said. “I want to hear him live because I heard he’s really good live.”

Bird is a multiinstrumentalist—including his ability to whistle—with seven solo albums, his latest being the 2012 release “Break it Yourself.”

Admission to the show costs $30, and all ticket purchases include a redemption code to download “Break it Yourself” and a EP from his 2011 tour.

“It’s a chance to see my favorite artists live so it’s kind of nice to have that experience and say I saw this person live,” Bailey said.

The Chaifetz Arena welcomes the Black Keys as part of their North American tour, April 27.

“I’m excited for the Black Keys because I’ve liked them for a long time and I just really like their music.”

Sierra Carter (11) said.

Their latest album “El Camino” was released, Dec. 2011, and was #2 on the Billboard top 100 chart in December. The debut song from this album, “Lonely Boy,” was at #1 on Billboard charts for rock music for nine weeks, according to billboard.com.

“There’s a difference between hearing it and actually feeling it because it’s loud in there,” Jill Haake (11) said. “It’s cool to have a bunch of people with you that like that same band in one place.”

Tickets for the now sold-out show were priced between $39.50 and $49.50.

entertainment

Radiohead

Brad Paisley

Brad Paisely will perform at the Verizon Wireless Ampitheater, May 18.

Scotty McCreery and the Band Perry will accompany him.

“I’m excited because it’s on my birthday, and I love country music,” Sabby Reed (12) said. “Scotty McCreery will be there, too, and he’s awesome.”

The concert is part of the Country Music Mega Ticket, which include performances

by Miranda Lambert, Lady Antebellum, Rascal Flatts, Jason Aldean and Toby Keith throughout the spring and summer, according to livenation.com.

“Its so fun because everyone gets dressed up and gets to go out and sing,” Reed said.

The mega ticket for all six concerts ranges from $125 to $589. A single ticket ranges from $38 to $515.

Staff picks of the month Missouri

The University of Missouri men’s basketball team is poised to make a deep run in the NCAA Tournament and is my pick to win it all.

Missouri makes up for their lack of depth with their athleticism and quickness on the defensive end of the floor. Coach Frank Haith has the Tigers playing some of the best basketball in the program’s history, and this year is finally their year to make a statement on the national stage. The Tigers are led by their leading scorer, Marcus Denmon and leading rebounder Ricardo Ratliffe. With the right matchups and a high intensity, the Tigers should propel their way to the title.

Shelby Miller

Miller has been considered the best minor league pitching prospect for the Cardinals since 2009, and this year will be his time to shine. With the loss of Albert Pujols, there is a need for more players to step up and deliver a strong season.

Despite the already solid starting rotation of Adam Wainwright, Chris Carpenter, Jaime Garcia, Kyle Lohse and Jake Westbrook, there are still many spots to fill in the bullpen that Miller would be an ideal fit for. Miller is traditionally a starter but earning a spot in the bullpen would be a tremendous start for what is sure to be a fabulous career in the big leagues.

casey walker writer

The Red Hot Chili Peppers

The Red Hot Chili Peppers will appear at the Scott Trade Center, May 25.

“I’m excited for The Red Hot Chili Peppers concert because I think they will put on a really fantastic show,” Wes Zlatnik (12) said.

Their tour travels through the US, nearly every European country, Russia and Isreal.

The band has been together since 1983 and was recently named inductees into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. They will be officially inducted April alongside the Beastie Boys.

As part of the tour, the band has a fan photo contest.

Concert attendees may purchase an extra pass to take pictures in the photo pit and submit them. The best photos will be featured on the band’s website, according to redhotchilipeppers.com.

brendan vogel writer

EHS Baseball

The Eureka baseball team is loaded with senior talent and is ranked sixth in the pre-season statewide rankings from the Missouri High School Coaches Association. It will be Coach James Daffron’s second season as head coach after a successful first year in which the team won the District Title. The team returns several players with quality numbers. Mark Hencken, catcher, finished last season with a .523 batting average and Josh Stephens, outfielder, averaged .388. A strong pitching staff returns as well with Matt Hassenback having a 4-0 win-loss record, Ryan Emmerson with a 4-2 record and Aaron Schnurbusch with a 3-1 record.