Nov. 2, 2016: Six More Days

NORTH | STAR FRANCIS HOWELL NORTH | ST. CHARLES, MO | 11.02.16 | VOL 31 ISSUE 02

SIX MORE DAYS PAGE 21

39% STUOF FHN DENTS

THAT ARE ELIGIBLE TO VOTE DO NOT PLAN ON VOTING

38%

OF FHN STUDENTS

FAVOR ONE PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATE OVER THE OTHERS

11%

OF FHN STUDENTS

CAN NAME THE CANDIDATES RUNNING FOR STATE GOVERNOR

21

Six More Days

14%

Find out some of the important topics to come on Election day and be more informed for the vote in a few days.

ON THE COVER

335 FHN students were surveyed about their political beliefs and knowledge. 11 percent of students could name both candidates running for state governor, 14 percent of students could name both candidates for U.S. Senator and 39 percent of eligible voters aren’t exercising their right to vote. (Photo illustration by Alex Rowe and Aly Doty)

CAN NAME THE CANDIDATES RUNNING FOR U.S. SENATOR

WE’RE SOCIAL,

ARE YOU? TWITTER

OF FHN STUDENTS

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Thanksgiving

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ENTERTAINMENT

Fall Festivals Find out where and when festivals are happening in the next month.

Statistics about different parts of Thanksgiving, from travel to the food.

@fhntoday

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SNAPCHAT

11 Gun Law

Junior Dominic Schneider qualified for the National Concert Band on tuba.

fhntoday

INSTAGRAM

National Band

NEWS

Learn about a new law that will make carrying a gun easier in Missouri.

@fhntoday

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FACEBOOK @fhntodayfan

Indian Dance

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Sophomore Shikha Annem shares her experience of learning Bollywood dancing.

FEATURES

Bowling Alley Sophomore Anna Pardo and her family speak about owning a bowling alley.

TUMBLR fhntoday

YOUTUBE fhntoday

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Syrian Soccer The Syrian national soccer team is closer than ever to qualifying for the World Cup.

SPORTS

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Aerial Silks Sophomore Sarah Vollmer tells about how she got interested in aerial silks.

PINTEREST fhntoday

SMUGMUG fhntoday

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OPINIONS

CONTENTS | FHNTODAY.COM | PAGE BY MCKAYLA BOGDA

Face Off See reasons why people should get either Apple or Android phones.

44 Third Party There are far more than two candidates on the ballot, so voting third party is an option.

GOBBLING UP THE STATS

MUSIC CHARTS Closer The Chainsmokers

There are always events to take part in every Thanksgiving, so here are some statistics of the events from last year and some that are upcoming this year

TRAVEL • 46.9 million Americans traveled more than 50 miles for Thanksgiving in 2015 • Driving is the most popular way to travel; more than 80 percent of people go by road • 39 million families are expected to travel this Thanksgiving

“I like to travel around the time because not only do I get to see neat places, I get to spend time with my family I don’t get to see often.”

- Kevin Welch, 12

VALUE • 180 million turkeys are sold in the U.S. yearly • The total U.S. spending on Thanksgiving food is $2.87 billion • The total value of turkeys produced in the U.S. annually is $4.37 billion

Don’t Wanna Know Maroon 5

FOOD

24K Magic Bruno Mars

• 7.5 million barrels of cranberries are produced annually • The average number of turkeys raised in the U.S. each year is 248 million • 2.4 billion pounds of sweet potatoes are produced each year

“I really like the food and being with my family because I feel like we rarely eat dinner together since we’re all so busy.”

- Andrew Santel, 12

Heathens Twenty One Pilots

Juju On That Beat Zay Hilfigerrr

Blue Ain’t Your Color Keith Urban

Gold Kiiara

PARADE • Typically, 50 million people watch the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade on television • There are 2.5 miles of public viewing on the streets for the parade • This year will be the 90th year for the annual parade

Let Me Love You DJ Snake

Starving Hailee Steinfeld

The Greatest Sia

“The food and being with the family that adopted me is my most liked part.”

- Alena Stahlschmidt, 11

Sources: Travel and Leisure, CNN, Statistic Brain, Macy’s, The Balance, Practical Ecommerce

“The smell of the turkey cooking the whole day and finally getting to sit down and eat it might be my favorite part” -Mercy Culver, 10

Sit Still, Look Pretty Daya (Source: iTunes Charts)

ENTERTAINMENT | FHNTODAY.COM | PAGE BY ALEX LANE

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WHAT DOES YOUR FAVORITE FALL THING SAY ABOUT YOU? As fall comes to a stopping point, pick your favorite part of this season and discover what characteristics your personality really holds or even the activities you like to take part in on the weekends

BONFIRES You’re adventurous. You enjoy late-night drives with your friends or even your family. The outside calls to you a lot and you have trouble staying inside. You’re vintage and organic and you will most likely spend your weekends at thrift shops or antique shops.

“Bonfires describe me because I relate to the adventurous part.

My friends and I go to parks to hike and then we have bonfires all through the season.”

-Drew Lanig, 12

THANKSGIVING You love to eat. You enjoy sitting down with your loved ones and spending time with them, whether it’s over a good laugh or even just in silence enjoying one another’s company. “[I relate to] Thanksgiving because it’s a time when you can chill with your family and tell them about all the things that happened throughout the year.”

-CJ Davis, 11

LEAF PILES

The thing you like most about leaf piles are the colors of the leaves. You’re artistic and fall is your favorite season solely because it’s always changing. You enjoy taking walks through nature or even going on hikes just to hear the crunch of leaves beneath your feet.

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ENTERTAINMENT | FHNTODAY.COM | PAGE BY SAMMIE HERR

PUMPKIN SPICE LATTE You’re basic. You love to spend the weekend out with your friends getting a coffee or going out to eat with them. You might even spend Saturday nights at a haunted house. Your main life source is your phone.

“I’m like pumpkin spice because it’s just easy to go out with friends and get coffee. They all like coffee like me and we all hang out afterward.”

-Dakota Adams, 10

COMFY SWEATERS

You like to follow or keep up with the trends.

To most of your friends you’re considered the social butterfly. You’re always online looking for new styles from various websites. You most likely enjoy wearing boots and scarves, merely because of the way they look.

SALTED CARAMEL LATTE Most of your days are spent inside your house, enveloped in darkness. You love to curl up with a fuzzy blanket and have movie marathons. Whether it’s binge watching Netflix or just having a movie marathon you always have a cup of steaming coffee with you.

“I would say that I relate to salted caramel latte because I like movie marathons and drinking coffee.”

-Devilyn Bedwell, 9

APPLE PIE

You were probably born in the autumn months which gives you an advantage at getting accustomed to most fall activities. You enjoy going to pumpkin patches, picking apples attending haunted houses and going on hayrides.

FESTIVALS TO LOOK FOR Here are three of November’s upcoming festivals and shows around the area including ballet and laterns

GRAND RAPIDS BALLET ROMEO AND JULIET FRIDAY NOV. 4 AT 8 P.M. Originally performed by Grand Rapids Ballet and written by Mario Radacovsky, people can expect to see his perspective on the classic tale of Romeo and Juliet.

The performance contrasts normal concepts with simple sets and colorful costumes. Performed by Dance St. Louis, Grand Rapids Ballet Romeo and Juliet is a

reoccurring event performed at Blanche M. Touhill Performing Arts Center at University of Missouri St. Louis. In addition to the two-act ballet, Dance St. Louis is hosting a free pre-show and intermission programs of pop-up Shakespeare. A preshow dinner is available. Ticket prices range from $30-$50.

(Source Touhill)

THE LANTERN FESTIVAL SATURDAY NOV. 5 AT 2 P.M.

(Source the Lantern Fest)

Thousands of people come together at the Lantern Fest to light up the sky in an unforgettable experience. The goal of the Lantern Festival is to illuminate the human soul and bring families and friends closer together. Before the release of the lanterns, families can enjoy live music, a stage show, food and more. Lanterns will be released when the sun goes down.

People attending are encouraged to bring chairs or a blanket to sit on and a jacket just in case it gets cold. Lanterns will be released from Brookdale Farms in Eureka.

It is recommended that people attending carpool because parking is $5 per car.

Tickets are $35-$50. Enter promo code FrancisHowell for students, faculty and their families to get a 10% discount.

FORBIDDEN BROADWAY THURSDAY NOV. 10 AT 8 P.M. Forbidden Broadway has entertained New York audiences since 1982 and now it’s coming to the Playhouse at Westport. This show is unlike any ordinary Broadway show. Forbidden Broadway’s goal is to make fun of classic Broadway plays such as “Pippin,” “Kinky Boots,” “Les Miserables,” “Matilda,” “Wicked” and “The Book of Mormon.” The show includes rewrites of

classic songs along with costumes and impressions. Forbbidden Broadway has won several awards including nine Drama desk awards, a Special Tony, a Drama League and a Lucielle Lortel. Tickets are $60. Whether a regular attendee at Broadway shows or a newcomer to the world of theater, Forbidden Broadway is a ticket to laughter.

(Source Forbidden Broadway)

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OTHER DATES Pet Expo Nov. 5 and 6 TO St. Charles Convention Center www.stlpetexpo.com WATCH OUT FOR

St. Louis Ambush Soccer Game Nov. 19 Family Arena www.familyarena.com

Celebration of Lights Nov. 26 to Dec. 24 Fort Zumwalt Park www.ofallon.mo.us

ENTERTAINMENT | FHNTODAY.COM | PAGE BY KYLAH WOODS

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UPCOMING TV SHOWS A look at four upcoming shows and new seasons following people’s daily struggles and new opportunities

THE PROFIT

PITCH

FULLER HOUSE

THIS IS US

NOV. 15 • SEASON 4 EPISODE 10 • CNBC

NOV. 3 • SEASON 1 EPISODE 6 • FOX

DEC. 9 • SEASON 2 EPISODE 1 • NETFLIX

OCT. 11 • SEASON 1 EPISODE 3 • NBC

When Ginny Baker gets a call to be the first woman on a major league baseball team, the San Diego Padres, she knows that she wants to prove herself to everyone. Although she had a rough start, she soon gains information through the people that mean the most to her. Playing pitcher, she is known for her screwball pitch, a pitch that is thrown to break in the opposite direction of a curveball. She even finds that she has some chemistry with another player on the team.

After the first season, viewers wanted to know more about what’s going on after season one ended season two now includes Halloween, Christmas and Thanksgiving episodes.

The Tanners show fans daily problems of a family living together and working together to get through every day.

A group of people who all share the same 36th birthday have some life-changing events happen as their lives intersect. One character named Jack moves to Pittsburg, PA. with his wife.

Another character, Kevin, lives a bachelor lifestyle, but is becoming more and more discouraged as time goes on.

Another character, Randall, is a successful businessman raising two daughters. The show catches their struggles and where everything will take them.

A multimillionaire tries to help businesses survive by putting millions of dollars of his own money on the line. He does whatever is necessary to help get these companies back on top for his profit, even if it means taking full charge and changing things up.

“I’ve watched it a couple times. I like how every episode is a different problem with a company and it’s interesting to see how he tries to fix them.”

-Austin Bowen, 12

“I don’t like Fuller House as much as I liked Full House because it’s literally the exact same thing but cheesier.”

-Sam Harris, 10

(Summaries by Olivia Fetsch)

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ENTERTAINMENT | FHNTODAY.COM | PAGE BY OLIVIA FETSCH

Chess pieces sit on the board before a game. Chess is a strategy-based game involving 16 pieces. “The most difficult thing is thinking ahead several moves and manipulating the board in your favor,” sophomore Madeline DeGraw said. (Photo by Matthew Jewson)

Nov. 11 is a day of recognition for soldiers who have fought and fallen for our freedom and is celebrated by people all across the nation. For many, this day is spent remembering veterans who have passed away and who have served. (nito/Shutterstock.com)

MARCHING INTO CHESS

ASSEMBLY CANCELED

The very first chess club meeting was on Sept. 15 after senior Fionna Pillow collaborated with sophomore Madeline DeGraw and band director Robert Stegeman to bring people together and form a club.

“It kind of started as a joke,” Pillow said. “Our marching band show [was] chess themed. I was joking that we didn’t even have a chess club and I asked Mr. Stegeman if he would sponsor it. He said yeah, so I figured I might as well go through with it. Now we’re having fun.”

This year, the marching band’s show was called “Just a Pawn” and

What would have been the first Veterans Day assembly was canceled for this year. Band director Robert Stegeman is planning for next year’s assembly.

“I think it is important to honor those who risked their lives for our country,” Abbie Chruma, sophomore and band member, said.

Since Stegeman will be away at a national music conference with a student, administrators decided to reschedule it. They believed Stegeman should be there to help with last minute details and to see how his assembly turned out.

had a chess and Alice in Wonderland theme. Since the band was already thinking about the game, they decided to start a club for it.

The group provides an outlet for anyone whether they already know how to play chess and want to improve and compete or don’t already know and are interested in learning.

“It’s another outlet for kids to be involved in something,” Stegeman said. “When you have something to do and you have a network of people it makes the high school experience easier.” (Brief by Mackenzie Pugh)

“I just think that we really have an opportunity to honor veterans and it would be a cool educational experience for students here,” Stegeman said.

Stegeman plans on having a few of the same elements that he had planned to include this year, such as band and choir performing together for the first time and all veterans in the community being invited.

“There’s something about playing for people to honor them,” Stegeman said. “There’s no greater feeling and I want my students to have that feeling.” (Brief by Kylah Woods)

CALLING ALL WRITERS

Junior Anne Juhlin is putting her suggestion for the writing prompt of the week into the prompt box.

The club is taking suggestions for writing prompts and will draw one at random each meeting for everyone to write with. (Photo by Bernadette Kornberger)

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NEWS | FHNTODAY.COM | PAGE BY MACKENZIE PUGH

Last year, students were introduced to the Writer’s Guild and it started out as a small group, but now they’ve returned for another school year. “[The Writer’s Guild] might be a fun and creative thing for some people,” Jani Wilkens, English teacher and Writer’s Guild sponsor, said. “Just show up and you’re in.”

The Writer’s Guild is a club for students who use writing as an outlet or those who have a passion for writing. Club meetings are held every other Tuesday in room 217 after school. Students will create poetry, fiction, nonfiction and other forms of writing during their time in the club.

“I was interested in joining because I wanted to increase my skill in storytelling, and it seemed like a fun club to go to,” sophomore Emily Butler said.

The Writer’s Guild’s routine is they pick out a prompt for the students to read, and then they write a story of some kind based off that prompt.

The students eventually share the stories they wrote with the rest of the group and receive feedback and praise for their work.

“Anybody who enjoys writing or anybody who enjoys being part of a club is welcomed to join,” Wilkens said. “It’s a nice place to make new friends and become a better writer.”

(Brief by Jake Price)

TAKING ON NATURE’S CALL From cleaning rivers to a fun float trip, Ecology Club is one with nature.

Joseph Brocksmith is the lead adviser for the club and is an environmental study and biology teacher.

“Outdoor activities, the handful of hikes and the float trip are some of my favorite parts of the club,” Brocksmith said.

On Oct. 1 the group went out for a gathering to St. Augusta to pick apples, ride hayrides, look at plants and more. The club monitors many stream sites in Missouri and makes sure there’s little to no pollutant in the waters. The club has been around for several years and still

WATCH

Senior Trevor Bohnert and junior Kurt Springli clean after five minutes of inspecting the insects they have caught. Joe Brocksmith, the sponsor of Ecology Club, met with his kids after school on Friday, Sept. 30 at Covenant Park to do the annual Stream Team testing of Spencer Creek. Stream Team is a group of environmental wary locals who help the local environmentalist know how clean the water is according to the health of the insects living in it. (Photo by Sam Alexander)

continues to run.

“Personally, it’s fun running the club and it gets kids interested to enjoy the outdoors,” Brocksmith said.

Senior Jessica Jones is ready for her first year in the club and is intrigued for what is to come this year.

Stream Team “Brocksmith Works to Better made it seem like the Environment a really fun club “Ecology Club” and the float trip goo.gl/NZscV5 always pumps everyone up,” Jones said.

Brocksmith hopes the group has another successful year and that students get the most out of it.

“What I hope they get the most out of the club is passion and appreciation for the great outdoors,” Brocksmith said. (Brief by Alex Lane)

UPCOMING EVENTS Thurs - Sat

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November Monday

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November

What: Fall Play Time: 7 p.m.

Place: Auditorium The upcoming fall play, “Wait Until Dark,” is getting ready for the stage with the cast and crew. The play is a psychological thriller about a blind woman who is conned by men, but later the tables begin to turn. It will be performed from Nov. 2-5 and will last about two hours or so. Tickets are $8 in advance and $10 at

the door. “[The play] is going to be wonderful,” drama teacher Kim Sulzner said. “We have a very strong cast and an incredible crew.

The crew finished the set after just two weeks, so we are doing really well on time.” (Brief by Morgan Bridges)

What: Jazz Band Concert Time: 7 p.m.

Place: Auditorium Jazz band has been practicing hard for their upcoming concert.

They will play their songs using a variety of jazz, blues and more, though focusing more on jazz and blues. The concert typically lasts from an hour to an hour and a half and will be held on Thuesday, Nov. 15.

“I finally get to perform in front of a lot of people and I’ve been practicing as much as I can and have been working hard, so I’ve been really excited for the concert,” freshman Seth Mathews said.

“It’s always so exciting when I get to see my hard work put into something bigger.” (Brief by Morgan Bridges)

What: Winter Choir Concert Time: 7 p.m.

Place: Auditorium The choir will perform a winter concert on Monday, Nov. 21.

The concert typically lasts about two hours, ending at 9 p.m. and costs $3 to get in, though it is best to buy a ticket in advance because most of the time there are no more tickets left at the door. The choir will sing a variety of different songs, including

Christmas and Veterans Day songs. The choir has been working hard for their performance and plan for a great concert. “[The concert] will be absolutely amazing and well planned,” sophomore Nina Bright said. “That’s how it is every year because we practice so much and so hard.” (Brief by Morgan Bridges)

NEWS | FHNTODAY.COM | PAGE BY MORGAN BRIDGES

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Junior Dominic Schneider performs with his tuba as part of the Knightpride Marching Band during the homecoming football game on Sept. 30. The performance took place at the beginning of the game, followed by the varsity football players entering the field. (Photo by Savannah Wandzel)

Playing his way to victory Dominic Schneider has always played tuba, but this year his talent has taken him to Nationals in Texas where he will play with other students from all over the country

by Stacy Beasley

sbeazley125@gmail.com | @sbeazley125

Junior Dominic Schneider is in the school band and this year he made Nationals for playing tuba. Dominic will play in the All-National Honor Concert Band. They meet at the Gaylord Texan Resort and Convention Center in Grapevine, Texas from Nov. 10-13.

“Since I’m doing so well in tuba it makes me feel better about myself,” Dominic said.

Dominic has played only one instrument, but over the years he has gotten better and better at it. To get here, he first had to make District and then State band. After that, he sent in an audition tape of himself playing for judges to listen to. Now his exceptional performances have earned him national recognition.

“I’ve worked hard at what I’m doing,” Dominic said. “It’s cool to get recognition for it.”

Dominic puts in hours of work in practice and outside of school. Like how athletes practice off the field or off the court, he takes private lessons to better his skills. He also plays tuba in the school’s marching band, and he recently earned fifth place out of 29 bands at Ste. Genevieve on Oct. 22.

“If you commit to something you care about, then you’ll almost always

WATCH

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NEWS | FHNTODAY.COM | PAGE BY STACY BEASLEY

succeed,” Dominic said.

With Nationals coming up, Dominic plans on practicing diligently so he can have a shot at placing first chair. First chair is the best someone can do and that’s what he is shooting for. When put in the spotlight some people will get full of themselves, but not Dominic. In fact, he’s the exact opposite, according to his friends.

“He’s very modest and humble, he puts in the work and it pays off for him,” senior Sean Rhomberg said.

Dominic plans on taking his musical career further than Follow the link high school. He wants to continue to play in college and to watch more even minor in music education. He plans on trying out for about Dominic the band at whichever university he decides on. He will do Schneider moving this by continuing to work hard and improve himself. In onto Nationals. the meantime, he plans to do well at Nationals by trying goo.gl/nbxI5E not to get nervous and keeping himself focused on what’s important.

“I’m really proud of Dom and what he’s been able to accomplish,” Dominic’s father Mark Schneider said.

His father has always encouraged him to reach farther and do his best at whatever he chooses to do. With Nationals coming up, he still cheers his son on and hopes to see him succeed.

“If I stay focused and work hard, I’m confident I’ll make first chair,” Dominic said.

local turkey trot serves MANY DIFFERENT PURPOSES

From self-improvement to helping the community, there are many reasons to run in the local Turkey Trot STL 5K

by Rebekah Maye

rebekahmaye@gmail.com | @RebekahMaye1

W

ith Thanksgiving Day being the most popular running holiday in America, some runners across the St. Louis area are motivated by the thought of a huge, guilt-free dinner. Others want to give back to the community. Some want to beat a personal record. A few continue a family tradition. Whatever the reason may be, Turkey Trot STL 5K fulfills plenty of needs.

“Since it’s right before you chow down on Thanksgiving dinner, it makes you feel like you’ve earned all that food,” Shelbi Dillon, math teacher and Turkey Trot runner, said.

For the past three years, Fleet Feet Sports has organized Turkey Trot STL 5K on Thanksgiving morning at 8 a.m. This is their third year and there are three different locations: St. Charles, Eureka and Arnold. Around 9,000 participants are expected over all three locations. Every participant is encouraged to bring at least one can of food, helping local charities such as the O.A.S.I.S. Food Pantry and the St. Patrick Center.

“Last year, O.A.S.I.S. had to make three trips to pick up all of the food,” Jules Vogel, logistics manager and race director, said. “They were so amazed. They were so thrilled because they could help a lot more people this year. All of the hard work is just so worth it when you can help so many people in your community.”

Compared to other turkey trots across the U.S., Turkey Trot STL is more local.

Put on by local businesses and organizations, the proceeds and food donations directly benefit people in the community. Donations help families through the holidays with gifts and food, and are also a resource all year long.

“We are dedicated to helping the St. Louis community,” Vogel said. “Everything benefits local people, businesses and jobs. It’s a great way to support your community and show that St. Louis is a better city than the media has portrayed in the last year.”

From people walking their first 5K to professional runners wanting to improve

Mile 2

Family Arena

South River Rd.

Mile 1

Start

their running time, the Turkey Trot STL 5K will not only benefit them, but also many families in need across the St. Louis area.

“My advice would be to come open-hearted,” Vogel said. “Come excited. Come knowing that not only is this race for you but for the purpose of helping people in the community. It’s not just for you, it’s for everyone you impact. It’s for the person you waved at, the person you high fived at the finish line, the person who you helped feed with your donation. Come with an open mind that you’re going to have a great morning, no matter what you do later on.”

DO YOU KNOW THESE FAST FACTS? Test your knowledge of the rich history of the national run 1. When was the first turkey trot in the U.S.?

A) 1896

B) 1900

C) 1944

D) 1972

4. How many runners were in the largest trot?

A) 15,000

B) 23,000

C) 31,000

D) 47,000

2. Where was the first race held?

A) Seattle

B) New York City

C) Boston

D) Buffalo

5. How many runners were in the first trot?

A) 6

B) 10

C) 25

D) 50

3. When did the first woman enter a turkey trot?

A) 1921

B) 1960

C) 1972

D) 1990

6. Where was the largest trot held?

A) Sacramento

B) Buffalo

C) Kansas City

D) Detroit

(Sources: The Daily Herald, Active)

Answers to quiz: A, D, C, B, A, A

TURKEY TROT ROUTE

Contestant number 1569 runs in the Turkey Trot 5K last year wearing a turkey costume to show his Thanksgiving spirit. Participants each bring a can of food to help support local food pantries for families in need around the holidays. (Submitted photo)

NEWS | FHNTODAY.COM | PAGE BY REBEKAH MAYE

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The Missouri Senate recently passed Senate Bill 656, changing Missouri’s current gun control laws

by Carolynn Gonzalez

carolynnnn.182@gmail.com | @carolynng0

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ov. Jay Nixon Supporters of the bill believe that it is their vetoed right to expand their range of defense for Senate Bill their families as well as themselves. Nixon’s 656 on June 26, 2016, veto of the bill was viewed as Missourians’ a bill that loosens rights being condemned.

Missouri’s gun “By making Missouri a constitutional carry permit laws. state, I support that,” Bill Eigel, Republican The veto was candidate for Missouri Senate, said. “I overturned think that although probably not everyone by should be carrying a weapon out there, the lawmakers on Constitution grants us all the right to do so Sept. 14 and if we feel that is a step we need to take to makes it legal to ensure our personal liberty and personal carry a concealed protection.” gun without a permit.

Those who disagree with the bill believe The bill that it is unnecessary becomes law on and makes it easier for Jan. 1, 2017. dangerous people to obtain “The new gun law where firearms. People who Check out the full Senate anyone can carry now support gun control also Bill 656 here: without any training or believe that gun violence goo.gl/UsjRo5 screening is a mistake,” will increase, especially in Richard Orr, Democratic urban areas like St. Louis candidate for Missouri Senate, said. “I haven’t and Kansas City. found anyone who is happy about it.”

“Those who want to possess weapons for Along with being able to carry a firearm self defense or recreation didn’t have to go without training, screening or a permit, through a difficult process under the previous the new law also gives gun owners law,” Orr said. “This is a solution to a problem the ability to shoot upon feeling that wasn’t a problem.” threatened on not just their property, Missouri is the 11th state to loosen its like current law says, but in public gun laws in this way; others include Alaska, too. In addition, the bill lowers Arizona and Wyoming. According to a survey the age of eligibility to apply for conducted by Everytown for Gun Safety a concealed carry permit from in August 2016, 91 percent of Missourians 21 to 19. Senate Bill 656 also surveyed support requiring a permit to carry denies law enforcement a concealed weapon in public. 44 percent the ability to stop of Missourians surveyed also stated that those with criminal gun laws should be made stronger, while 40 or domestic abuse percent stated they should be kept as is. records from obtaining “This is a pretty big victory for gun rights firearms. activists,” Eigel said. “This represents one “I don’t agree with it,” junior of the best-case scenarios nationwide Garrett Ray said. “I don’t think that that citizens have in order to exercise their everyone who buys a gun is capable of freedoms, so I’m very excited about where handling one.” we’re at right now.”

MORE INFO

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NEWS | FHNTODAY.COM | PAGE BY CAROLYNN GONZALEZ

A MESS YOU CAN’T CLEAN UP FHN is home to a music duo called MESS that released a studio album

by Keegan Schuster

keeganschuster98@gmail.com

Seniors Michael Shine and Ethan Samson keep a very tight schedule, both working at Stefanina’s and serving on Student Council together. However, the two have yet another addition to their agenda: writing and recording alternative music as a duo called MESS. The band came about during their junior year, and they have since released a six-track album on music streaming services such as iTunes and Spotify.

“Ethan and I were both taking lessons from the same producer; it was definitely his idea to start working on an album,” Michael said. “I view it as one of my accomplishments, and I’ve heard many positive remarks. Even people who don’t like alternative music have liked our album.”

The six-track album, called “Inside,” features Samson providing vocals and keyboards with Shine playing guitar and bass. The duo recorded the vocals at Sawhorse Studios and completed instrumentation in Samson’s home studio.

After spending nearly five months and over $1,000 on its production, Shine Want to listen to and Samson were able “Inside” by MESS? to release “Inside” in the Follow this link to hear the album: spring of 2016. goo.gl/XTUVCW “I’m so proud of them,” Michael’s mother, Tina To see them play, Shine said. “My favorite follow this link: song would definitely have goo.gl/3FN0NW to be ‘Let It Ride.’ I just love the music. I want everyone to be able to hear it.”

The duo has been playing music together since middle school, and they plan to keep doing so as they finish high school and attend Mizzou together.

They continue to write songs and play gigs at various types of events, including school functions and private parties. The two plan to release a follow up to “Inside” before the start of 2017.

“There’s been a lot of positivity in regards to the group,” Samson said. “I love hearing ‘You guys made this?’ It’s nice having a piece of art to call your own.”

LISTEN

Seniors Michael Shine and Ethan Samson work on a song for their next album in Samson’s home studio. Their new album will include more electronic and hip hop elements along with their alternative sound. The group has recently recorded new demos.

(Photo by Kyra Peper)

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Sophomore Shikha Annem shows off her traditional Bollywood garments and Parani. Bollywood dancing is a traditional Indian dance performed in vibrantly colored costumes. Annem’s mother Pallavi Annem helps her put on parts of the costume before she performs. (Submitted Photo)

Annem poses and shows off one of her Indian dresses. Annem said she enjoys Bollywood dancing but said she doesn’t want to become a professional Bollywood dancer. “I enjoy Bollywood dancing and it’s something I can do with my friends,” Annem said. (Photo by Emily Biehle)

LIFE OF A BOLLYWOOD DANCER

Dancing is just a hobby for most people, but it’s a passion for sophomore Shikha Annem

by Myah Blocker

myah447@yahoo.com | @nicolemyah_

Shikha Annem has been dancing for eight years, but it’s not the typical American dancing that most people know. It’s known as Bollywood dancing to modern day Americans and Indian dancing to her. “[Dancing] is a stress reliever for me sometimes,” Shikha said.

“And it’s just fun.”

When Shikha got involved in dancing, she didn’t know the background of her culture or realize the importance of it. Her mom, Pallavi Annem, introduced Indian dancing to Shikha at the age of 8. Although Pallavi never got the chance to be involved in dancing, she wanted to give Shikha a chance to understand the importance of her culture while also giving her the opportunity she never had when she was younger.

“It was hard for her because it took a lot of learning and there was a language barrier,” Pallavi said. “Despite all of it, she brought out a lot of effort, and she goes on stage and she really loves it.

That, as a parent, was a really proud moment.”

Before going onstage to perform, Shikha’s mom helps her prepare by putting on the different customs that are a part of the performances. The dancers wear traditional garments that are used for design and to honor the culture. One of their customs involves designing the hands and feet. This is known as Parani, and it’s used as an accessory.

“It takes four to five hours to get her ready; it’s really an all-day event,” Pallavi said. “It gets really intense because there’s so

much to do.”

Pallavi isn’t the only fan of Shikha. Best friend sophomore Madeline DeGraw attends her performances and cheers alongside Shikha’s mother.

“The dance they do up there is insane,” DeGraw said. “They have to memorize it all. I don’t think I could ever [do that].”

Shikha only has two years left before she receives a degree that allows her to be certified for teaching others how to dance.

When she finishes the course, she will be able to advance to the next level, where she receives her degree. Although she’s almost at mastery level, there’s never a day when she doesn’t learn anything new.

“Every day is something different and it tells a story,” Shikha said. “That’s what I like about it the most.”

Though Shikha loves dancing now, she didn’t always. When she was younger, Shikha didn’t appreciate dancing as much as she does now. Pallavi helped her get used to the shifts in her schedule that are now a part of her weekly routine.

“You have to be bent on your knees a lot,” Pallavi said. “And she used to be like ‘Oh man, I have to get on my knees again.’ But I explained how you have to put in work, and now she puts on a smile.”

Shikha loves dancing, but she doesn’t see herself doing it as she gets older and graduates high school. She appreciates her mom for putting her in dancing and learning something new about herself that she never knew before.

“I don’t think I would ever go into professional [dancing],” Shikha said. “Maybe just through high school.”

INDIAN DANCE ORIGINS MODERN DANCE Modern dance includes the choreography of multiple dances all in one. It is used in Indian cinema and modern day ballet. It experiments with various other forms of dance, including classical.

TRIBAL DANCE Also known as folk dance, tribal dancing expresses the daily work and rituals in villages and communities. In India, each state has its own form of folk dance.

CLASSICAL DANCE Classical dancing has been around for ages and is used to tell a story through dance gestures.

Most of the dances enact stories from Hindu mythology.

FEATURES | FHNTODAY.COM | PAGE BY MYAH BLOCKER

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Junior Maggie Hillman poses with some of the many products her and her family makes out of honey. They produce many different beauty products as well as honey snacks and honey dog treats. They sell their goods at local craft fairs and festivals. The price of honey products vary on the quality and presentation of the honey. (Photo by Madi Graves)

Another Day In The Honey Junior Maggie Hillmann enjoys making and selling honey with her family and friends on their family owned farm

by Ashya Roberson

shayroberson48@gmail.com | @aweezyroberson

N

ot any typical, average person can run a honey farm without any difficulties. Junior Maggie Hillmann and her family own a honey farm in Center, MO by Mark Twain Lake. Two years ago when he retired, Ray Hillmann, Maggie’s dad, wouldn’t have thought of bees as a way to make a profit.

Since that day, the Hillmann family has used the honey farm to make a profit of over $2,500.

“When I retired, I wanted to have something to do and when one of my good friends gave me the idea, I thought on it and made it happen,” Ray said.

Owning a honey farm for over two years can be stressful if the owner doesn’t know what to do, according to Ray. It’s a lot of work keeping up with the bees and making sure they stay active in the winter time. Feeding them sugar water keeps them active enough to produce honey for the next spring so the Hillmanns can harvest honey. Some bees are more aggressive than the others, so knowing how the bees function and what not to do to them is another way of being able to own a honey farm successfully.

“Just being able to see the bees in their own little world is amazing and also to be able to help my mom make lip balm, lotion, hand soap and just regular honey

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FEATURES | FHNTODAY.COM | PAGE BY ASHYA ROBERSON

to sell is by far one of my favorite highlights of being a part of a family-owned business,” Maggie said.

Many people in the world wouldn’t dare go near a beehive or even hold a frame containing the honey. Some people will swat at the bees if they get close to them.

However, junior Katie Richardson, Maggie’s best friend since seventh grade, listens and takes her best friend’s advice seriously. A bee sting can cause extreme redness and swelling that will increase the next two days after the sting.

“It’s all fun watching Maggie and her family get the honey out, but I make sure to wear a full body suit so I won’t get stung or attacked by the bees,” Richardson said.

Ray must eventually decide if he will pass down the family-owned business to his kids.

“Yes I would love to [pass down the farm], but I don’t think they would or will consider it,” Ray said. “I know it’s a lot of work and to keep up with it can be stressful, but I hope any of my five children will think on it later in the future to keep the family business going.”

March will be the Hillmann family’s third year owning this honey farm, and it is very important to them.

“The honey farm has made great memories with my family and Katie,” Ray said.

“Just seeing them all happy makes me feel good and want to keep on doing what I love to do.”

horsin’ around

Junior Emily Helmick has ridden horses at Great Griffin Barn for over 10 years. Helmick works with her trainer Mari Jebens and competes in numerous show events and field events with her horse

Helmick gets her horse prepared before her lesson on Oct. 12. Helmick has been riding horses since 2006 and she still loves every second of it.

She fell in love with the animal she works with and the atmosphere of the barn. (Photos by Sam Cary)

Helmick rides the horse, Chilly, while training for her future. Helmick hopes to take riding to the next level to hopefully ride in college one day. She is looking at certain school that can benefit her future by having a vet program and help her have fun with an equestrian team.

Helmick admires another horse as she enters the barn for her lesson.

Helmick has always loved animals.

This is why she got into horses and why in her future she hopes to become a vet. “My entire life I have wanted to be a vet. I want to Incorporate my love for animals and my love for medicine into my future career,” said Helmick.

Helmick wraps up her weekly lesson by saying goodbye to the horse she worked with that day. Helmick goes to her lesson at Great Griffin Barn at least once a week and often finds herself there more when she is not involved at church, playing her instrument or working. Though she is busy, she always makes time for her passion.

FEATURES | FHNTODAY.COM | PAGE BY SAM CARY

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On Oct.. 2, a man bowls his turn in the fourth frame of his game at Shrewsbury Lanes. At the lanes, players can bowl for fun, join one of their bowling leagues and play competitively. League games are held during the week starting at 7 p.m. with an entry fee which varies depending on which league players choose. (Photos by Sam Cary)

Shrewsbury Lanes is a strike for the Pardo family

A bowling alley that was originally built in 1959 became a family business after sophomore Anna Pardo’s mom and step-dad purchased it in 2013 and remodeled it while still keeping its classic theme

by Anna Lindquist

alindquist709@gmail.com | @annalindquistt

S

ophomore Anna Pardo sits in her plastic chair behind the counter, tapping absentmindedly on the table. Bowling balls roll across the floor. She hears pins crash together and a cheer from a neighboring lane. Kids in the arcade run around trying to play every game they possibly can. Laughter echoes around the room as a couple eats a cheeseburger in the corner. Even though working at Shrewsbury Lanes is a rarity for her, she still enjoys spending her time in this classic bowling alley that her family has owned for the past three years.

Shrewsbury Lanes is a bowling alley that has been a staple in Shrewsbury, Mo. since 1959. Anna gets to be a part of that history since her mom, Heather Pardo, and her step-dad, Brad Pollard, bought the bowling alley in 2013.

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“It’s been here forever,” Heather said. “It’s neat because when we’re here during the day, a lot of time we’ll have older couples that’ll come in and talk about when they were kids and how they used to bowl here. You get to hear a lot of neat stories from people who grew up in the nursery here while their mom and dad bowled. They just like to come through and see how much it’s changed, yet it’s still the same way they remember it when they came in as kids.”

Shrewsbury Lanes is in St. Louis County, which is about 30 minutes away from St. Charles. Despite the distance, Heather and Pollard bought it when it was for sale in 2013. It went into receivership after the bank took it from the previous owner and then they bought it before it could go to auction. Before that, it had changed hands three times from when it was built in 1959.

“We had one gentleman who came in after we had been owning it for a little bit who said he actually got to roll a ball down a lane before they were finished

Nine bowling pins sit at the end of the lane. The bowling alley is open Monday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. with varying hours on the weekends. They have party deals for large groups of people as well.

All bowling shoes get cleaned at the end of the day at Shrewsbury Lanes. In the summer, when there is less business, they cut down on the amount of shoes at the alley.

installing them because his dad was involved in building the lanes here,” Heather said. “It’s really interesting hearing stories from when the bowling alley was first built.”

Because of Pollard’s history in bowling, he had always wanted to be the owner of a bowling alley. Pollard started bowling when he was about 10 years old and really started getting into it when he was a college student at Missouri State University. After he graduated, he coached and taught bowling at Drury University.

He coached with a silver-level certificate in Springfield, Mo. for 12 years. Once the opportunity arose to buy his own bowling alley, he was able to fulfill that dream.

Now it is both parents’ primary job.

“I like that it gives them more time together,” Anna said. “It puts less stress on us. Them working together helps everyone else in the house, and if one of them needs to do something, they can take over each other’s shift. It makes everything a lot simpler.”

Once they bought the place, they resurfaced the 24 lanes, updated the arcade and changed the bowling alley from smoking to non-smoking. Even through all the changes, according to customers, it still has the same classic feel.

“I’ve had multiple people come up to me and ask for a cheeseburger and say ‘Oh, it tasted like it used to when I came here as a kid.’ and ‘It looks so much nicer.’ so they’ve noticed all our improvements,” Emma Pardo, Anna’s sister and FHN alumna, said.

Since working there is both parent’s primary job, they both could suffer if business goes down. Despite the possible challenges, there are many benefits for their family.

“We get free bowling and then somewhere to hang out,” Anna said. “If we want to make some money, me and my siblings could always just work one day there.”

A Bowler gets set to bowl a game. The bowling alley has 24 lanes. Bowling is $2.75 per game monday through friday form noon to 5p.m. and $3.50 5p.m. to close.

WHEREISISSHREWSBURY? SHREWSBURY? WHERE Charles St.St. Charles Peters St. St. Peters

6464

Florissant Florissant

270 270 270270 Francis Howell North HIgh School Francis Howell North HIgh School 2549 Hackmann Rd,Rd, St. Charles, MO MO 2549 Hackmann St. Charles, 70 70

Chesterfield Chesterfield

55 55

170 170

270270

64 64

St.Louis 64 64 St.Louis

44 44

255 255

270 270

44 44

255 255

Shrewsbury Lanes Shrewsbury Lanes55 55 7202 Weil Avenue, St. Louis, MO MO 7202 Weil Avenue, St. Louis, 255

255

FEATURES | FHNTODAY.COM | PAGE BY ANNA LINDQUIST

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Presidential protest

On October 9, Presidential candidates, Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump held their second debate at Washington University in Saint Louis. Citizens protested outside of the University before the debate began A Stein supporter and Trump supporter discuss the upcoming presidential debate. Stein is a candidate from the Green Party and Trump is the Republican party candidate. Stein did not participate in the debate. The Democratic and Republican parties were the only political parties allowed to participate.

Many people in the Public Expression Zone protested in support of opening the debates to all political parties.

(Photo by Alex Rowe)

A protester and a member of Young Evangelicals for Climate Action shake hands during the protests.

The protester was a supporter of Trump. His sign said “Unborn Lives Matter.� This was in support of Trump and his pro-life policies. The Young Evangelicals for Climate Change were the first group to speak at the event.

(Photo by Kelsey Decker)

A protester dressed as a devil stands inside the Public Expression Zone with a sign protesting against Trump. The Public Expression Zone was set up by the University for people to go and protest freely. It was located at the southeast corner of Big Bend and Forsyth and was open to the public from 4 to 10 p.m. (Photo by Alex Rowe)

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FEATURES | FHNTODAY.COM | PAGE BY ALEX ROWE

A woman in the audience claps her hands during a speech. The Public Expression Zone provided a stage and microphone where several people gave speeches on behalf of their organizations.

The speeches had to be submitted and preapproved before the day of the debate. The speakers gave their speeches throughout the event. (Photo by Alex Rowe)

Uninformed, Uninvolved and Unknowing

Students await the upcoming elections without knowledge of the candidates and their views

by Sarah Zimmerman volleyballtwin8@gmail.com

A

s election day inches nearer and nearer, misconceptions and rumors travel about as candidates are discussed and questioned. Or are they? Student brains buzz with gossip, schoolwork and relationships, leaving little space for the thought of upcoming elections, resulting in students being unaware and uninformed.

“The student body as a whole doesn’t know much about the upcoming elections except the main points talked about over media,” sophomore Aslee Addison said. “People distort the candidate’s stances and what they say they’re going to do. You just hear their interpretations of what the candidates said.”

With many students only knowing the presidential candidates’ names and basic viewpoints, the media is able to take a toll as students cannot differentiate between the myths, interpretations and verbatim. Through this confusion, students are left misguided.

“All of these positions that people are being elected for, their job is to benefit the country,” sophomore Noe Bustos said.

“We live in this country and therefore we need to be able to be informed on the people running for these positions, [such as] what their positions are. It either benefits us or it doesn’t.”

Not only will understanding the positions and viewpoints of candidates be potentially beneficial in the present to students, but many of them must begin to understand the political process they will be able to become a part of within a few years.

“In a couple of years I’ll be 18 and I’ll be able to vote then and

see if the candidates could be re-elected,” junior Grant Freitas said. “I feel like students should be involved in government as well because it will be affecting them in the future and it does affect them now based on how [candidates] have their policies.”

The future gleams ahead as people prepare to vote for candidates, leaving students who can’t vote the opportunity to instead sway opinions and prepare for their future as soon-to-be voters.

“Juniors and seniors are going to be voting in the next election and the governor has a direct effect on money going to higher education in the state of Missouri,” AP Government teacher William Crow said. “The governor can affect how the foundation formula is funded, meaning how much money schools get, and any laws regarding education or almost anything.”

Regardless of being unable to vote directly, underclassmen have equal opportunity to be involved and informed in the political process that will eventually be in their hands by researching the candidates, watching political debates or volunteering for campaigns.

“Even if you are only able to volunteer once or you’re only able to give a monetary donation, it’s important because it’s your future,” history teacher Kim Coil said. “If you do not get involved in the process and do not research at least the candidates that you’re interested in voting for, then it’s your future that you are putting at stake. Government affects everybody until the day they die, and then it affects your family after your death. At least make sure you know who you’re voting for. [Those that can’t vote can] talk to the people in their household that can vote and their friends that are old enough to vote.”

SIX MORE DAYS Six days. Six days until Nov. 8, when millions will witness the finale of the presidential controversy. Six days until the race for governor comes to an end. Six days until the potential passing of Proposition Howell will be determined. The day approaches with the fate of the

future in the hands of voters; however, with voters and students uninformed and unprepared for the upcoming elections, a bright future could slip through those same hands.

(Center design by Aly Doty)

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THE VIEWPOINTS DONALD TRUMP

Donald Trump is the Republican Party’s nominee for the 2016 presidential election.

Affiliates with the Republican Party

GARY JOHNSON

HILLARY CLINTON

Believes Obamacare has failed in terms of cost and quality of health care.

Supports the right for women to get an abortion if they decide it’s their best option.

Opposed to banning guns unless the person is mentally ill or a criminal.

Believes Obamacare will cause the economy to collapse.

Hillary Clinton is the Democratic Party’s nominee for the 2016 presidential election.

Affiliates with the Democratic Party

Supports abortion rights and funding Planned Parenthood.

Supports increasing restrictions when it comes to purchasing and using guns.

Thinks Obamacare should go from 90 percent coverage to 100 percent coverage.

Supports gun control which includes strict background checks, psychological testing and training.

Supports Obamacare, but believes a mandatory single payer system would be better.

Jill Stein is the Green Party’s nominee for the 2016 presidential election.

Affiliates with the Green Party

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Believes the Second Amendment should be cherished.

Opposed to abortion except in cases such as the mother’s life being at risk.

Gary Johnson is the Libertarian Party’s nominee for the 2016 presidential election.

Affiliates with the Libertarian Party

JILL STEIN

A glance at the presidential election nominees’ beliefs on issues such as abortion, Obamacare and immigration

Supports protecting a woman’s right to choose in terms of abortion.

WHERE DO WE STAND?

335 FHN students were surveyed about their political beliefs CANDIDATES Believes in making America’s borders more restricted for safety reasons.

ABORTION

Opposed to increasing taxes for the rich to reduce interest rates for student loans.

(30%) Donald Trump

(38%) Hillary Clinton

(37%) Pro-Life (46%) Pro-Choice (17%) Other/No stance

(8%) Gary Johnson (1%) Jill Stein (23%) Other

Believes it should be easier for immigrants to access temporary work visas.

Opposed to increasing taxes for the rich to reduce interest rates for student loans.

“

“

I think [getting an abortion] should be your choice. I just think you shouldn’t do it excessively.”

I support Trump the most because he’s a Republican and I’m also a Republican.”

Emma Durham, 11

Drake Johnston, 10

GUN CONTROL

UNIVERSAL HEALTHCARE

(9%) More lenient measures (47%) Stricter measures (29%) Keep current measures (15%) Other/No stance

Believes putting restrictions on immigration is un-American and wrong.

Supports increasing taxes for the rich to reduce interest rates for student loans.

(48%) I don’t support it

“

“

I think that people should be allowed to have a conceal and carry just in case something ever does happen, because if someone tries to harm you, you can have a backup.”

Tylor Godfrey, 9

(18%) I support it

(34%) Other/No stance

I’m definitely not very political, but the area [of Obamacare] I’ve noticed is that when I take my kids to well-visit checkups, that has been free, and I like that.”

Shelly Parks, Teacher

BORDER SECURITY (50%) I support stricter border security (19%) I don’t support stricter border security (31%) Other/No stance

Opposed to deporting innocent immigrants and their families.

Supports increasing taxes for the rich and increasing funding for free education.

(Sources: ISideWith, OnTheIssues, RedKoala / Shutterstock.com, Trump: JStone, Clinton: Krista Kennell, Johnson: Andrew Cline, Stein: Gage Skidmore)

“

I think the U.S. needs to increase their security and who they let into America for safety reasons.”

Tyrese Pettit, 9

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THE RACE

The four most disliked presidential candidates in history, whose campaigns have been wrapped in controversy, are on the ballot next Tuesday for the U.S. public to decide who will be the next president

DONALD TRUMP

REPUBLICAN NOMINEE

THE WALL Arguably one of Trump’s most renowned ideas, part of his controversial immigration policies, he proposes an “impenetrable, physical, tall, powerful, beautiful, southern border wall” be built on the U.S.’s southern border with Mexico. The idea behind the wall is to prevent low-wage Hispanic workers from illegally entering the country, thus increasing demand and therefore wages for local U.S. workers. The Trump campaign has said the wall would cost between $8 billion and $12 billion, but estimates by experts are nearly universally higher, with the Washington Post predicting it could cost up to $25 billion. Trump has also insisted that Mexico will pay for the wall, an idea that Mexican President Enrique Pena Nieto has unequivocally refuted.

MUSLIM IMMIGRATION

Trump argues that a blanket ban of Muslims would prevent terrorism in the U.S. While there have been several terrorist attacks directed at the West by radical islamists, such as in Paris and Brussels, the perpetrator of the terrorist attack in San Bernadino

that prompted Trump’s call for the ban, although inspired by foreign extremist groups, was a lawful permanent resident of the U.S. An immigration ban could help prevent more radical islamists from entering the country, but would not affect those that have already made it in, and would do nothing to curb radicalization within the country. Furthermore, experts have virtually unanimously stated that a religion-based immigration ban would be virtually impossible to implement because the volume would be too significant to control.

Trump’s continued, albeit curbed, stance on this policy has resulted in him being labeled by many as a bigot and a racist, both of which he has denied.

SEXISM Comments made by Trump both during the campaign and many years in the past regarding women, from his comments directed at Fox News anchor Megyn Kelly which many believed he was insulting her because of menstruation, to the 2005 video in which he brags about groping women, have given rise to his reputation by much of the American electorate as a sexist. The Trump campaign has publicly apologized for both incidents, and dismissed the latter as “locker-room talk” that was part of a private conversation. Following the leak, many Republicans withdrew their support for him and his campaign. Speaker of the House Paul Ryan released a statement saying that he would no longer defend Trump. This renewed controversy and withdrawal of support for Trump comes at a time when his polling figures continue to fall. (By Martin Groves)

MORE INFORMATION What is the wall? - goo.gl/HZMo0Y Who would pay for it? - goo.gl/G4MyQx What is the 2005 video? - goo.gl/1Xz4k3 What has Trump said in the past? - goo.gl/FsY1Ih How would the ban on Muslims work? - goo.gl/obyd8h How widespread would the ban be? - goo.gl/VidBNq

v v v v v v

TO OFFICE

(Sources: Joe Seer / Shutterstock.com, Jose Gil / Shutterstock.com)

HILLARY CLINTON

DEMOCRATIC NOMINEE

EMAILS This is by far the most talked about, and heavily analyzed topic regarding the former secretary of state. Clinton’s opposition point toward the use of a personal email server for work-related emails containing daily operations at the State Department and the attack on the U.S. Embassy in Benghazi, Libya, as untrustworthy behavior; therefore, making her unfit to handle classified information that the president would have access to. The Clinton campaign, and Clinton herself, have taken an apologetic stance after an initial denial of any wrongdoing.

After an investigation into both Clinton’s email scandal and the events in Benghazi, Secretary Clinton was not found culpable of any criminal action, nor was there any criminal action found.

CLINTON FOUNDATION Over the course of the last month, the site WikiLeaks released thousands of stolen emails from Clinton’s personal server. The U.S. intelligence community believes the hackers to have been Russian.

Before Clinton was to become the secretary of state, she had to go through confirmation hearings in the Senate, just like every presidentially appointed position. During this confirmation hearing, many senators were concerned that the charitable foundation that the Clintons had created would become a conflict of interest when dealing with foreign countries. The Clinton Foundation has five main focuses in international aid: climate change, economic development, girls and women, global health and health

and wellness. “The foundation’s acceptance of millions in foreign donations, including from countries with business in front of the State Department while Hillary Clinton was at the helm, is a chief source of concern driving the perception problem” (Politifact/2016). Secretary Clinton has held a steadfast stance during her campaign, claiming that her husband’s business in the Foundation did not conflict with her actions as secretary of state, and it will not conflict if she is the one who is elected president.

EXPERIENCE Although the 2016 election has seen a rise in conservative ‘outsiders’ gaining popularity, with the prime examples of Donald Trump and Missouri gubernatorial candidate Eric Greitens, many still feel that those with their educational and professional background in politics should lead the country.

President Barack Obama referred to Clinton as “the most qualified presidential candidate ever”, throwing himself along with President Bill Clinton under Hillary Clinton in professional experience in public service. However, with this election cycle, many seem to be wary of putting a government insider in thew White House because they feel as though they don’t work for the people. (By Christopher St. Aubin)

MORE INFORMATION What was the email scandal? - goo.gl/aXr2yu What are the WikiLeaks Emails? - goo.gl/gYUfvj What did the FBI conclude? - goo.gl/oXaNml What are the allegations against the Clinton Foundation? - goo.gl/6uLtKv What has Hillary Clinton done? - goo.gl/4EdtzR Why are people supporting career politicians? - goo.gl/JDJF3z

v v v v v v

GARY JOHNSON

LIBERTARIAN NOMINEE ALEPPO Part of the job of the president of the U.S. in this increasingly globalized world is to have relations with other countries. To do that, many people believe that the president should be fluent in their foreign policy and at the very least understand the current global state. Johnson has had many lapses in the basic understanding of the world beyond the borders of the U.S. The main example that people point to is Johnson’s bewilderment when asked about the war-torn Syrian city of Aleppo on MSNBC. Now, the common everyday citizen does not necessarily need to know the significance of this Middle Eastern city. However, many would argue that a presidential candidate should know that this is a besieged city in the crossroads of a civil war and ISIS’ campaign as well as the humanitarian crisis in Syria.

JILL STEIN

FOREIGN LEADERS The other large lapse in international knowledge Johnson has had is not being able to name a single foreign leader he admires. Although this may seem absurd to some people, it is in line with the libertarian view of limited government and very microscopic intervention internationally.

LIMITED GOVERNMENT The main platform that the Libertarian Party runs off of is a message of limited government, especially at the federal level, with the belief that government is mainly in place with the main purpose to make all laws necessary for the safety of its citizens.

Anything after that should be done privately to maintain a free-market economy and to protect from governmental incursions on citizens’ rights. This party is very traditional in the sense that they take the exact wording of the Constitution to heart and want to prevent extrapolation upon any clauses that can be used as an excuse to expand government. Johnson has come to adopt these beliefs after his 2011 conversion from the Republican Party. This may seem enticing to a large portion of the conservative voter base until they see how ‘limited’ Johnson actually wants the government to be. In an MSNBC interview he said that if he were president he would eliminate the Department of Commerce, Department of Education and the Department of Housing and Urban Development, all of which perform services that benefit many. (By Christopher St. Aubin)

GREEN PARTY NOMINEE ECOLOGICAL REFORM The Green

Party employs an ecological approach to politics, aiming to establish a society based on environmentalism, non-violence, gender equality and grassroots democracy. The party has a plan that they call the “Green New Deal,” a collection of far-fetching policies that aim to halt climate change.

STUDENT DEBT The policy that has been central to Stein’s campaign has been to cancel student debt and “bailing out a generation of young people.” The proposal that Stein has put forward is to eradicate the $1.3 trillion of student debt through quantitative easing, a process by which the Federal Reserve prints more money and introduces it into the market. That being said, Stein has described this complex monetary policy as simply “a magic trick,” and has claimed that the office of the president has

the authority to introduce quantitative easing, which is not true because that responsibility lies solely with the Federal Reserve, an entity separate from the executive branch of government. After this policy idea was made infamous by English comedian John Oliver, the Stein campaign responded by stating they had other proposals to cancel student debt, and that canceling student debt through quantitative easing is technically possible, though politically difficult.

ENVIRONMENTAL REFORM The Green Party employs an ecological approach to politics, aiming to establish a society based on environmentalism, nonviolence, gender equality and grassroots democracy.

The party has a plan that they call the “Green New Deal”, a collection of ambitious policies that aim to halt climate change. Those who are members of the Green Party usually find their way to membership through a common support of sustainable energy, protection of natural resources and incentivising companies who move towards these options. Stein herself supports incentive programs for industries that move away from oil and pollutive resources to sustainable energy such as solar and wind power. She also supports the banning of offshore oil drilling. These policies have earned Stein no support from companies that depend on these forms of cost-efficient energy to produce a profit, but has received the backing of numerous environmental organizations. (By Martin Groves) (Sources: Andrew Cline / Shutterstock.com, Gage Skidmore / Flickr)

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WHICH CANDIDATE DO YOU SIDE WITH THE MOST? Find out which of the four major presidential candidates you agree with the most on major issues in this election

Should we have stronger border security?

START

Pro-Life

What is your stance on abortion?

QUIZ RESULTS: STUDENT OPINIONS

D

“I side with more conservative views so I knew Trump would be chosen but I personally don’t agree with everything Trump stands for and who he is as a person.”

Grant Argent, 11

Yes

Yes

No

No

Pro-Choice

Should the government pay for public college?

Should there be criminal justice reform?

No

Should the U.S. accept more Syrian refugees?

Yes

“I’m not surprised [about my quiz result] because I’m a moderate, and even though Gary Johnson is a part of the Libertarian Party, he falls on the moderate scale.”

Should there be more environmental regulations?

No

Ye s

G

Yes

Yes

Should drug use be decriminalized?

H

“I am glad she is running for president as she strongly supports women’s rights and advocates for stricter gun control. She has years of experience in the senate, whereas fellow nominee, Donald Trump, has none. I feel that she is the most fit nominee and will be pleased if she is elected as the first female president of the United States.”

Emma Chilcoat, 12

J

“I’m happy I got Jill Stein because she cracks me up and I agree with a lot of what she has to say.”

Dan Borrelli, 12

Yes

No

No

No

Should there be stricter gun control?

Troy Schaffer, 12

D

I’m not surprised [about my quiz result] because my views tend to lean more conservatively.”

Olivia Archibald, 11

HILLARY CLINTON

DONALD TRUMP

GARY JOHNSON

Republican Party

Libertarian Party

Democratic Party

You are fairly conservative.

You are very cautious about the people that are being let into the country and you tend to believe that the government should be more involved with social issues and keep their hands off when it comes to economic issues. You believe that the government should worry about defense the most.

You are a centrist. You are fairly conservative when it comes to economic issues and fairly liberal when it comes to social issues. You tend to believe that the government should just leave people alone when it comes to both social and economic issues. You believe in a hands-off form of government.

You are fairly liberal. You tend to be more welcoming to letting people into the country and tend to believe that the government should be moderately involved in the economic and social issues that people deal with. You believe that the government should be large in some places and smaller in others.

JILL STEIN Green Party

You are very liberal. You tend to believe that the government should be involved in just about every way when it comes to economics, but tend to believe that the government should leave people alone when it comes to social issues. You believe that the government should be large in many different areas.

H

I don’t agree with all of [Hillary’s] positions, but I feel like I agree with her more than the other candidates.”

Riley Lawson, 10

G

“I’m not surprised that I got Gary Johnson because I’ve supported him from the beginning and I think that he’s the best candidate.”

Taylor Wallsmith, 12

(Quiz by Anthony Kristensen)

28

11%

OF FHN STUDENTS

CAN NAME THE CANDIDATES RUNNING FOR GOVERNOR

The Race that No One Watched With election day less than a week away, the candidates for governor, Chris Koster and Eric Greitens, must fight for support from an electorate that isn’t paying attention to the race for the highest office in Missouri

by Anthony Kristensen

anthony.kristensen17@gmail.com | @anthonyk17slsg

The clock is ticking. Election Day is a mere six days away. Only 144 hours until voters will begin to flock to their polling sites to decide who will lead their cities, states and nation for the years that follow. For the major candidates for governor of Missouri, this short period of time will be used to try and gain as many votes as possible to better their chances of becoming the 56th governor.

But there remains a serious problem for both Democrat Chris Koster and Republican Eric Greitens: the voters that they are trying to appeal to. According to an LSU Survey, only two out of five voters pay close attention to the gubernatorial race in their respective states. With such a low percentage of voters paying close attention to their statewide elections, it’s likely that many voters will simply vote solely along party lines.

“I think that, one, it’s overshadowed by the presidential race,” government teacher William Crow said. “Two, I don’t really think that people know who [the candidates] are. Three, I don’t think that they really understand the role of the governor of the state of Missouri.”

Those that have been paying close attention to the gubernatorial race have picked up that, much like the presidential race, the Democratic candidate is seen

29

as an insider that has been in the government for years while the Republican candidate is a political outsider that looks to bring outside influence to Jefferson City. However, for those that haven’t been paying attention, the two candidates are simply just another name filed under the Democratic and Republican parties, despite the differences the two have with typical party members. Some of these differences among the typical party members are glaring, such as Koster picking up the endorsement of the National Rifle Association or Greitens not receiving the endorsement of prominent pro-life group Missouri Right to Life.

“I wouldn’t say that it’s necessarily a problem,” history teacher Kimberly Coil said. “If you’re a true supporter of a party’s platform, and you are 100 percent supportive of that, and you trust that the party candidate is a supporter of that, then there isn’t really a problem if you’re trusting that system, then that’s not a problem. But that’s very rare. For most of us, that’s not so. Most people don’t agree with the entire platform, therefore we need to look at the candidates and decide which one best represents us as an individual.”

As the race comes down to the final stretches of the campaign, the two candidates will face the obstacles of trying to reach out to a base of voters that simply aren’t paying attention to them.

“I think people should get involved in politics,” senior Michael Scanlon said. “It allows everyone the opportunity in their community to be heard by voting.”

BUDGETING WON’T SAVE US According to district administrators, Prop Howell is necessary because the District has to prioritize when they budget, which leaves FHSD lacking in some very important places.

Along with voting for the next president on Nov. 8, FHSD citizens will vote on Proposition Howell, a tax levy that will directly impact the community. Prop Howell calls for a 60 cent tax increase for ever $100 of property value.

This will allow the District to fund necessities and restore some of what was cut after Prop Y’s failure. With its passage, they plan to restore and update technology, increase courses offered and reestablish tutoring.

Overall, Prop Howell will improve the quality of our schools to where it needs to be.

According to the FHSD website, the money will be used to update school computers, the network equipment, the phone system, improve WiFi and further increase online security. Teachers, counselors, tutors and other staff positions that will help students will be added, along with additional faculty so our staffing levels are up to par with a district the size of FHSD. Funds will also be used to give teachers training that focuses on working with students with mental illness and recognizing dyslexia, in addition to improving curriculum training. Other improvements to the curriculum include: replacing outdated textbooks, adding more AP courses and introducing more extracurriculars for middle and high school students. In order to fund the beneficial improvements and restorations, administrators deem it necessary that Prop Howell passes. (By Heeral Patel)

PROP Y VS. PROP HOWELL: WHAT CHANGED LACK OF PUBLICITY A majority of the public, specifically those who do not have family in FHSD schools did not know about Prop Y.

ELECTION Prop Y was voted on during an off-year election, so there were fewer voters at the poll.

PRICE DIFFERENCE Y asked for a 90 cent increase for every $100 of property value. This amount was seen as too large by some voters.

With Prop Howell, the District has been working to educate the community about what Prop Howell is through flyers and informational meetings.

Prop Howell will be voted on during a presidential election.

This is such a major election, and a large voter turnout is expected.

Howell is a 60 cent increase.

Due to the 30 cent decrease, not as many previously cut programs will be able to be brought back.

A REVENUE OF MOSTLY PROPERTY TAXES

(22.7%) Basic State Aid (55.8%) Property Tax (8.5%) Statewide Sales Tax (5.7%) Other States Aid (3.9%) Federal Revenue (3.4%) Other

(Source: FHSD)

WHAT LED TO THE DEFICIT 2015 The District came out with Prop Y, a 90 cent tax levy, in an attempt to fix the deficit. Due to a large proposed tax increase, a small voter turnout, and uninformed voters, Prop Y did not pass.

2004-2010 The Board of Education reduced the tax rate by 25 cents, causing FHSD to lose $30 million that they had the authority to collect.

2009 The state did not fully fund state aid as they were expected to, leading to a reduced revenue.

2009-2010, 2011-2012, 2013-2014 In three, two-year cycles, property tax values didn’t increase as they normally would. This was due to a poor economy.

2014 The Special Purpose levy, which allowed the district to collect an additional $4 million, expired.

2016 The District introduced Prop Howell.

30

On Sept. 22, juniors’ Yousef Langi, Richie Taylor and senior Michael Scanlon run down the field after the game. The boys’ played against St. Dominic and ended with a win of 3-1. (Photo by Haleigh Schlogl)

SCHEDULE BOYS’ BASKETBALL The varsity boys’ soccer team huddles up to get ready for their game. on Sept. 1.

They played against Troy and ended the game with a score of 4-0. (Photo

by Emily Biehle)

11/17 FHN VS PWHS: AWAY 11/29 FHN VS SCHS: AWAY 12/16 ST. CHARLES WEST

2015-16 RECORD WINS: 5 LOSSES: 21 TIES: 0

WRESTLING 11/30 FHN VS SCW: AWAY 12/2 FHN VS PSHS: AWAY 12/7 FHN VS FHHS: HOME

2015-16 RECORD WINS: 1 LOSSES: 3 TIES: 5

GIRLS’ BASKETBALL 11/17 FHN VS SCW: AWAY 11/28 NW CEDAR HILL 12/06 FHN VS SCW: HOME

2015-16 RECORD WINS: 13 LOSSES: 12 TIES: 0

GIRLS’ SWIMMING 12/4 FHN VS PHS: AWAY 12/11 FHN VS MNHS: AWAY 12/14 FHN VS FZW: HOME

"

33

Senior Osvaldo Guerrero scores against Timberland with a final score of 3-0 on Oct. 4. “It felt good scoring but it’s hard to explain the feeling. Like you have to actually experience it to know how it feels,” Guerrero said. (Photo by Kyra Peper)

BOYS’ SOCCER WRAPS UP SEASON Since many players returned this season, the varsity boys’ soccer team strived to do better than last year. The team focused on trying to create consistency with each play and trying to shoot more goals. They also worked with the players on the intensity and the pressure during the game. The team won their first game in Districts, moving on to the District championship on Oct. 27.

“We have the same team back plus a couple key components that we have on the team and we’ve done much better,” Head Coach Larry Scheller said. “I feel when you bring back the same group you have a little

continuity and something to build on. It’s a continuation of understanding everybody and what we’re doing.”

With 15 seniors on the team, Scheller is ready to help the upcoming varsity players grow as a team next season and watch them step up to the varsity field.

“I’m sad to see this group go, a lot of them I’ve been working with for three years and I got to see a lot of growth in them and it’s fun to see,” Scheller said. “I’m excited to see the growth with the players coming up next seeing how they mature as people and how they work to become better.” (Brief by Ethan Slaughter)

SKATING FORWARD Junior Hannah Spain is playing for her second year on the ice hockey team as a forward and the only girl. Hannah spent her freshman year managing the ice hockey team and playing roller hockey. Then her sophomore year she received a phone call from some parent managers who knew her from roller hockey asking her if she would be willing to try out for the ice hockey team.

“Her teammates really are aware that she’s out there and they have no problem following up if Hannah has been hit extreme or anything like that,” Hannah’s mother, Jacqueline Spain said.

There have been some challenges for her since ice and roller hockey have some differences, so she began taking private lessons to improve her skills and speed.

“I did start playing ice hockey pretty late,” Spain said. “Most ice players start when they’re younger, so I do have some catching up to do but if I work hard enough I’ll be able to get there.” (Brief by Sami Schmid)

SPORTS | FHNTODAY.COM | PAGE BY ETHAN SLAUGHTER

Hannah Spain is currently the only female hockey player on the hockey team and has been for two years and counting. Hannah’s next game is on Nov. 3 at the Affton Ice Rink. (Photo by Jared Kinnard)

Bria Hamilton swings at the tennis ball during the Lady Knights varsity tennis team’s match against Parkyway North on Aug. 25. The match ended with a score of 5-6 and a loss for FHN. (Photo by Hannah Medlin)

Allison Murphy slides into home during the semifinal game of the class four, district five softball tournament on Oct. 16. FHN entered the tournament seeded first, while Parkway North was seeded fifth. They won the game 8-6. (Photo by Riley McCrackin)

GIRLS’ TENNIS MAKES IT TO STATE TOURNAMENT AGAIN

SEASON ENDS FOR SOFTBALL

As fall sports come to an end, the girls’ tennis season ended as well at the state tournament on Oct. 14 and 15. State was held at Cooper Tennis Complex in Springfield. The top-ranked varsity player, senior Yuri Takenaka, was the only one who made it to State. She ended up placing sixth.

“I’m not super happy about how it went but I tried my hardest,” Takenaka said. “I went in with the mindset that I was probably going to lose so that wasn’t the greatest.”

Although she faced some trouble with injuries and illnesses, the second top-ranked player, senior Haley Bradt, didn’t make it. Even with tendinitis, she still played during some matches but she wasn’t able to play for others. “[The season] was a little sad because it was my last season,” Bradt said. “I haven’t been able to play because I’ve been injured.

I was disappointed. I might have been able to go to State.” (Brief by Sammie Herr)

Varsity softball fought hard, winning Districts against both Parkway North, 8-6, and Parkway Central, 9-1. That led them to Sectionals against Hazelwood West. They won 2-1, but lost in quarterfinals against Troy with the final score 0-15.

“We all work really well together,” senior Taylor Beye said.

“We’ve played really good. There have definitely been some bad plays but that happens.”

The varsity girls ended with a final record of 11 wins and six losses, not including District and

Sectional wins. The girls kicked off their season winning their first Parkway tournament and then did great according to the team members.

The girls made it to quarterfinals last year before losing 12-4. This year they improved their field play at practice and took it straight to the games.

“We are both grateful that we had such an amazing team and season,” Watkins said. “I’m excited for next season and seeing how much more we can improve.” (Brief

by Olivia Fetsch)

BOTH CROSS COUNTRY TEAMS MAKE SECTIONALS

Joel Boenitz races towards the finish line at the cross country meet in Forest Park on Sept. 10.

Before the event began the course was turned to mud due to rain. Despite the conditions, the varsity boys’ team came in 14th place out of 36 teams. (Photo by Gavin Atkinson)

With the cross country season coming to a close, the school’s runners have been working to qualify for the state meet on Nov. 5 in Jefferson City after making it past sectionals.

The boys’ and girls’ teams both made it through Districts on Oct. 22 and qualified for Sectionals on Oct. 29. The top 30 runners from that meet are now heading to Jefferson City to compete at State.

“It’s pretty hard to qualify for State, so it’s really exciting just to make it to State,” coach Kim Martin said.

The team participates in practices after school every day to prepare for different meets as well as State. These regular practices help to prepare the team for State, with runners regularly trying to

set new personal bests while supporting their teammates during practice and when competing at meets.

“We strive to become better each week in hopes of making it to State,” runner and sophomore Joel Boenitz said.

Making it to State is something that almost all the runners consider beneficial because they get the experience of going to the state championship meet and competing at a high level, as well as for scholarship opportunities.

“Colleges will notice what you have been doing and will start trying to give scholarships to you,” Boenitz said.

“Going to State can be a big confidence booster for years to come.” (Brief by Paige Prinster)

SPORTS | FHNTODAY.COM | PAGE BY PAIGE PRINSTER

34

Players of Syria’s national team pose for a pre-game photo before they take on Thailand in a King’s Cup match. (daykung/Shutterstock.com)

A BALL, A TEAM, A WAR AND A DREAM

With the 21st edition of the FIFA World Cup coming up in Russia in just under two years, the war-torn nation of Syria is closer than ever to qualifying for world’s premier soccer tournament

by Anthony Kristensen

anthony.kristensen17@gmail.com | @anthonyk17slsg

H

e’s a stocky man, sporting a Barcelona soccer jersey with the name “MESSI” and the number 10 printed on the back. He greets everyone he encounters with a smile on his face, living life to the fullest. However, as he sits at a Panera Bread Company table in St. Louis, he knows that this is not home.

In fact, home is far away. Home is 6,383 miles away, in Damascus, Syria, where he lived until the outbreak of civil war, which he fled four years ago to find a new life in St. Louis. His name is Majed Abu Jaib (pronounced mah-jid ah-boo jieb). He doesn’t have much, but he does have soccer, and a team to cheer for.

Today, this team represents a nation that has been struck by civil war: a war that has claimed the lives of more than 400,000 people as the bloody fight between government forces, the Islamic State and numerous rebel factions has turned the once peaceful nation into the largest bloodbath in the modern era. This is the story of the Syrian national soccer team, also known as the Eagles, as they fight to qualify for their first appearance in the FIFA World Cup. The war-torn nation’s soccer team, currently ranked number 114 in the world,

35

SPORTS | FHNTODAY.COM | PAGE BY ANTHONY KRISTENSEN

according to the FIFA World Rankings, is not letting the conflict get in the way of their path. In fact, this is their motivation: to bring much-needed joy to the people of Syria.

“As a people, we would be so happy [if they qualified],” Majed said. “We would be so proud, as any country who has never been in the World Cup. We would be so proud of our team, and we don’t care how well they’d do in the World Cup, we just care that we got to the World Cup.” As the team prepares for the final phase of the Asian World Cup qualifying campaign, not only will they have the backing of the people that call the battleground their home, but they will also have confidence due to their form in previous matches.

In the second round of the qualifying campaign, Syria placed second in their group, finishing only four points behind the heavy group favorites in Japan. The heavy underdogs are facing off in Group A against China, Iran, Qatar, South Korea and Uzbekistan for the group’s two guaranteed spots in the 2018 World Cup, with the third place team going into a home and home playoff with the third place team from Group B. The winner of the playoff will go on to face off against the fourth place team from North and Central America. Currently, Syria sits in fourth

place, after a 1-0 defeat against Uzbekistan, a 0-0 draw against South Korea, a 1-0 win against China and a 1-0 loss against Qatar. Their next game will be at ‘home’ against Iran on Nov. 15, who currently sit on top of the group.

“We look at each stage differently, we look at all the teams differently,” Salah Shahrour, Syrian national team defender, said via Facebook Messenger from Lebanon. “Hopefully we play our best in this stage. Iran and [South] Korea will be very hard to face.”

For fans, following the team’s journey may be a difficult task. Not only do they have to deal with the daily horrors of the massive civil war, but the team’s home games are played in a nation far from home. The Eagles played their “home” games at Al-Seeb Stadium in Seeb, Oman, in the second phase of qualifying, and they currently play in Malaysia, where every goal that they score is met by a deafening roar of silence, as the fans are nowhere near the stadium that seems to be a world away from the fallout and bloodshed of their home nation.

“I feel very, very sad about what’s happening in my country right now,” Shahrour said. “For me to not be playing for my fans in my country, that affects us in a negative way.”

As the team continues to push toward qualification, they aren’t only playing for their own hopes and dreams of playing in the World Cup. They’re not playing for their own personal glory or for their own careers but for something much bigger than themselves.

They are fighting to represent the people of the war-torn nation on the international stage.

Syrian civil war “The war in Syria doesn’t affect Fast facts how we look at soccer,” Shahrour said. “It doesn’t affect how we look - Over 400,000 people at any title. We will try to get there have been killed since for our fans because they were with the conflict began us no matter what.”

If the Eagles are able to break - The U.S. is currently through the group and qualify for arming and supporting the World Cup, it would bring much rebels to topple needed joy to the people of Syria. the government They could finally have something other than the destruction of the - About 4.8 million people civil war. However, Majed states have fled Syria since the that even if the team does qualify, conflict began it won’t bring about much change in the country, due to the current - Russia and Iran support situation across the battlefield that of the current he calls his home. government in Syria “Of course it will make [the Syrian people] happy,” Majed said. “But, Sources: CNN, FactCheck.org still, there is something happening in the country which is the worst thing in the history.”

As the war and the destruction keeps the overall morale of the people low, there are still other factors that play into the atmosphere of the nation. Mostly, it is the divisiveness that has cast its dreary shadow over the country. As the government and rebel forces continue to battle for control of the battered nation, the average citizen is left in the crossfire, with some supporting the government and others joining the ranks of the rebel forces. The Syrian national team is operated by the government, which, according to Majed, is why the conditions in the nation and the severity of the war are unlikely to change if the Eagles are able to qualify for the World Cup. “In my country’s situation, it’s the government against their own people,” Majed said. “I don’t think that [qualifying for the World Cup] will change a lot.”

However, despite the war, the divisiveness and the violence, the team continues to work toward their final goal: to qualify for the world’s premier soccer tournament. They are not only looking to accomplish qualification in the wake of the war, they are playing for the people of the country, to bring some joy to a nation that has been pillaged by the grips of a war that has left the streets of the once peaceful nation drowning in blood. They are playing to try and bring joy to the fans that have supported them from the beginning.

They want to get to the World Cup for the people of Syria.

“For our team to play in the World Cup, it will be a very proud thing for us and our fans in Syria,” Shahrour said. “We are all one body, one heart for representing Syria and the fans.”

Hamid Mido talks with Mahmoud Alyoussef during the King’s Cup match between Thailand and Syria at Rajamangala Stadium on June 3, 2016 in Thailand. (feelphoto/Shutterstock.com)

Players of Syria’s national team line up for their national anthem before the King’s Cup match against Thailand on June 3, 2016. (daykung/Shutterstock.com)

OTHER SOCCER UNDERDOGS LEICESTER CITY Leicester City FC kicked off the 2015-2016 Barclays Premier League season with 5,000:1 odds of winning the league and 3:1 odds of being relegated to the second division. Despite the odds, Leicester City topped the league table, finishing 10 points ahead of Arsenal FC to secure their first ever Premier League title. To put that into perspective, the odds of Elvis Presely being found alive at the time were 2,000:1.

ICELAND

Iceland currently is the smallest nation to ever qualify for the European Championships, as the small island nation has a population of 323,000, roughly the same as St. Louis. The team stunned the world by advancing from the Euro 2016 group stages by beating Austria and drawing against Hungary and Portugal, then they shocked England by beating them 2-1 in order to reach the quarter final, where they would bow out to France.

TAHITI

The nation of Tahiti won

their first ever Oceania Nations Cup in 2012, earning them their first ever trip to a FIFA tournament, as they went on to compete in the 2013 Confederations Cup. The team, which was a complete roster of amateurs, failed to win a game at the tournament, as they faced experienced professionals against Nigeria, Spain and Uruguay. However, they scored a historic goal against Nigeria, despite

SPORTS | FHNTODAY.COM | PAGE BY ANTHONY KRISTENSEN

36

Seniors Bryan Chac and Ann Heitmann play corn hole at the Sigma Corn and Delta Yeti tent before the homecoming game.

The two groups tailgated before each home football game this year. (Photo by Bernadette Kornberger)

A different Experience CREATED for Friday Nights

A few students formed groups Sigma Corn and Delta Yeti this year to tailgate before football games to try and increase involvement and excitement

by Heidi Hauptman

heidihauptman9@gmail.com | @HauptmanHeidi

F

riday night, a few hours before the football team takes the field. Most students are at home relaxing before heading out to the game. But in the parking lot of the school, there is a group of kids under a tent getting ready for the game. This year, a combination of boys and girls decided to organize two groups, “fraternity” Sigma Corn and “sorority” Delta Yeti, to tailgate Sigma Corn in the parking lot of the school before the Brenden Mollett, 12 football games began.

Bryan Chac, 12 “At tailgates we typically hangout, listen Chris St. Aubin, 12 to music, play some corn hole, eat food and just try to get everyone excited,” Bryan Drew Lanig, 12 Chac, senior and member of Sigma Corn, Ethan Samson, 12 said.

Jake Oppenborn, 12 At the beginning of the year, a few of the Josh Fajardo, 12 senior boys had the idea to start Sigma Max Dattilo, 12 Corn to try and have something fun to do before football games. After that, a group Michael Shine, 12 of girls decided to make a group of their Nate Schuler, 12 own called Delta Yeti. Both groups met Nic Savala, 12 together and tailgated in the parking lot Patrick Quinn, 12 on Fridays before the games started.

Trever Bohnert, 12 “There was a group of our friends who just said, ‘Hey who wants to go tailgate Avery Bond, 12 before the football games?’” Chac said.

“There wasn’t really one specific person that came up with the idea. It was a team effort. We just thought that it would be cool to have something to do before the games.”

Since then, both the Sigma Corn and Delta Yeti groups and the tailgates have become much more popular throughout the student body. Both groups have their own Twitter accounts to get information about the times of the tailgates out to

anyone who is interested. The Goonies also use their Twitter account to help get tailgate information out. Many people who aren’t technically in either group still went to their tailgates for something to do before games started.

“I think that it is a good thing to have the groups tailgating before the football games,” Activities Director Mike Janes said. “I think that organized tailgating before every game is nice and is a good way to increase excitement.”

The groups continued to tailgate the rest of the football season and hope to continue Delta Yeti through any winter or spring sports that Ann Heitmann, 12 they can find to tailgate at. They hope to Ashleigh Barlow, 12 keep bringing something extra and exciting Briana Schmidt, 11 to sporting events so that people can look forward to something as well as the usual Emily Henry, 12 excitement of the games.

Jessica Jones, 12 “We are hoping to continue tailgating Kate Doerhoff, 12 throughout the year,” Chac said. “We just Lauren Wolosyk, 12 don’t really know what events we would Megan Seigler, 12 tailgate at yet because it is normally just a football thing. Tailgating during the winter Sami Weyhrich, 12 would be hard because it’s cold and there Sammi Donaldson, 12 aren’t any outdoor sports. We have pretty much just done football games but we will tailgate pretty much anything.” @SigmaCorn Neither of the groups have main leaders and everyone normally brings their own food @delta_yeti and activities to the tailgate. Typically the tailgates started two or three hours before the scheduled start time of the sporting event.

“I just think it’s going to continue to be a fun way to hang out with friends and hang out before the games,” Chac said. “It is a good way to get everyone excited and hyped up and get ready to support our team. I think it has really helped to get more people involved.”

SPORTS | FHNTODAY.COM | PAGE BY HEIDI HAUPTMAN

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Sophomore Sarah Vollmer swings from silks that are hanging from the ceiling at Flipside Gymnastics. Vollmer has been performing with silks for over a year and she performs for fun rather than competing. “Even though we don’t compete, we do have showcases once a year where our coach choreographs routines and family and friends can come and watch all of us show off what we learned.

It’s like a mini performance,” Vollmer said. (Photo Submitted)

Suspended in Midair

Sophomore Sarah Vollmer practices every week to get better at her unique talent of aerial silks, a form of acrobatics that requires the performer to hang in the air by silks and execute a number of tricks

by Hannah Wilson

hannahmae691@gmail.com | @hannahwilson30

Interests can change at the drop of a hat, or rather, a person. Sophomore Sarah Vollmer walked into Flipside Gymnastics on Oct. 1, 2015, on her way to her first lesson for aerial silks and came out an hour later with a new passion for silks, a form of acrobatics.

“My friend Katie was doing it and she told me about it,” Sarah said. “I thought it would be a fun thing to try. It’s something that not a lot of people do and I like my coach so that makes it fun.”

Aerial silks is a form of acrobatics where the performer is suspended from the ceiling and is wrapped up in a silk material. While it started as a circus act, the act of aerial silks has grown more and more popular. Sarah has a background in gymnastics, but she wanted to try something new.

“She used to do gymnastics before that so she’s physically fit and very coordinated and graceful,” Sarah’s mom JoAnn Vollmer said. “She takes the classes very seriously and looks forward to them. She works hard to get better.”

Starting anything new can seem daunting, especially when it involves hanging in mid-air, but Sarah worked hard to get over that fear and improve her skills. She goes to Flipside every week for an hour to practice. Another place Sarah goes is Bumpershoot Aerial Arts, a school for hopeful acrobats in St. Louis. There, she is

39

SPORTS | FHNTODAY.COM | PAGE BY HANNAH WILSON

able to practice and improve with the help of other instructors.

“When she first started, she was very hesitant and she would get very tired because it required arm strength,” JoAnn said. “She was scared for drops. Now, everything is smooth and very strong. She doesn’t hesitate and it looks very beautiful. It gives her confidence in other ways as well.”

Another thing Sarah fell in love with that first day of lessons was her coach, Ashley Mendoza. With that instant connection, their relationship has only grown.

Mendoza explains everything to Sarah and helps her achieve greater heights.

“I love her,” Mendoza said. “Sarah is fantastic. She is really good at breaking the skills down. She has a good ability to break things down and understand them.

She’s very repetitious, she comes in and does what she’s learned before. She has a good time with it and doesn’t get frustrated.”

When she started, tasks like climbing up the silks proved difficult. Oftentimes, this would cause her hands to cramp. Now she has noticed that she has gotten stronger and silks is becoming easier. She didn’t give up because it was hard, but rather kept working and getting stronger to perform better.

“Most girls get hesitant and think they’re not flexible or strong enough,” Mendoza said. “I would advise to just try it. Step out of your comfort zone. Everyone has a different level of progress. One of the best things about silks is the way it makes you feel. It helps you face your fears and makes you realize how much your body and mind can accomplish.”

TOP TWEETS

@EmmaEckhard

@djl644

I live for videos of Hillary & Trump

There’s a free haunted house and it’s called Francis Howell North see you all tomorrow

THE HOT TOPIC OF...

APPLE VS ANDROID

LET’S TALK ABOUT IPHONES

Apple offers more beneficial ways of communication than Android

by Mackenzie Pugh

kenzie2019@gmail.com | @mackenziepugh_

Anytime a person is due to get a new phone there’s always the question: iPhone or Android? Many people address this question in different ways and value some features of either phone more than others. Communication is a high priority for teenagers and students, and iPhones provide an array of ways to communicate with ease that Android doesn’t offer.

Sharing between iPhone users is simply easier than sharing between Android users. Samsung is making it easier to share between other Samsung users, and Android Marshmallow allows for better Android-to-Android sharing, but they still don’t offer the same level of communication as Apple. Sharing your location on an Apple product comes effortlessly with a few

taps on your screen. You can also quickly share photos, files, links and contacts with AirDrop even without being connected to wifi. FaceTime offers a great way to video chat, and, unlike Google Hangouts, it is built into the phone so users can easily switch from phone call to video chat.

Apple devices can sync together, allowing information to flow from one device to another and be reached from any device you prefer. iMessages can even be sent from any Apple device a person might own. This is something Android doesn’t offer without the help from third-party applications.

Many students, like sophomore Hannah Degraw, feel it’s important for communication to be easy and simple because that’s the whole point of technology, to have an easy and fast way to be in contact with others. This is achieved best with an iPhone.

ROBOTS RULE, APPLES DROOL

The ongoing rivalry between iPhones and Androids has a clear champion

by Morgan Bridges mbridges2001@gmail.com

The evolution of the cell phone has come a long way. Starting at the telephone, phones changed to the favored Apple iPhone and Samsung Android. The two brands have created a rivalry among teenagers. Although iPhones are the most popular, Androids are more efficient when focusing on the variety of choices, strength of the phone and camera quality.

There has been a feud between iPhone and Android users for a few years. iPhones have been popular among teenagers, but most people underestimate Androids. Androids are easy to navigate using widgets and various set-up options. These improve the phone for the customer based on one’s own liking.

Androids also charge faster and are pretty strong and do not

41

break as easily due to their plastic frame. As a bonus, most Androids have been waterproof for a while, though iPhones have only recently become waterproof. Androids also have different locks for the lock screen, including facial recognition, pin numbers, passwords and patterns.

Android phone cameras have better picture quality than that of iPhones. For example, sites like androidauthority.com show the differences in the camera quality of an iPhone 7 Plus and Galaxy Note 7. This site stated the Android had better picture quality and even showed the differences in pictures.

Both iPhones and Androids are popular devices, but the underestimated Androids are easier to use and are more advanced than iPhones. Although iPhones are the most popular among teenagers, Androids will always release new products that change the way Android phones are looked at.

OPINIONS | FHNTODAY.COM | PAGE BY HEERAL PATEL

STUDENTS’ THOUGHTS “I like Androids because they’re strong and more advanced than iPhones are, but the battery dies pretty fast and they don’t have all the apps that iPhones have.”

-Noah Moore, 10 “I liked the camera and video settings on the Android, but something I didn’t like about it was that no one else really had one so I kind of steered toward the iPhone.”

-Hunter Turpin, 10 “It makes life easier because you don’t have to have service to text people if they have an iPhone, you can just use wifi or data. Also, you don’t have to download an extra app if you want to FaceTime someone.”

-Brenden Mollett, 12 “I think I like having an iPhone other than another brand because it’s easy to use and also pretty much everyone else has one too and so it makes it the best and easiest choice to communicate and play games with other people when you all have the same thing.”

-Drew Lanig, 12

@mgilmore30

@cadecopeland99

@louisfeldhaus

if there was a club that played Disney music and served like apple juice and capri sun you’d never see me anywhere else

Dude in the drive through had a Rick Harrison debit card

I will nap anywhere any time

RENEWABLE ENERGY FOR A RENEWABLE FUTURE

With the U.S burning more and more fossil fuels, we must look at alternate forms of renewable energy

by Ethan Slaughter

ethanslaughter0@gmail.com | @ethanslaughterr

Solar energy is becoming more popular, in the last decade the number of people who have panels has grown 60 percent. Solar panels are more common in homes than windmills because it would take an 18 foot windmill to power a home. (Source shutterstock.com)

The U.S. is currently relying on much of its energy consumption from nonrenewable fuel sources such as coal and oil. According to conserve-energy-future.com, nonrenewable fuel sources provide over 85 percent of energy consumed worldwide. The world has to start using renewable resources in order to keep moving forward with the demands of the modern society we live in today.

By not using renewable resources, the world will eventually run out of all of those fossil fuels. However, the use of renewable resources such as wind power, solar power and hydroelectric power are going to be sustainable sources of energy that will never run low.

Burning fossil fuels causes toxic gases to be released into the air, which leads to many environmental issues such as air pollution and water pollution. It also contributes to global warming. By burning fossil fuels, gasses such as carbon dioxide are released into Earth’s atmosphere, which then become trapped in the atmosphere and heat the environment.

One drawback to using renewable resources such as solar energy and wind power is the cost to set up the plants that produce the power. It may cost more, but in the long run it will be a much more sustainable source of energy and will be better for the environment in many different ways.

Many states such as California are trying to get more people to use energy that comes from a renewable resource by setting laws such as The Clean Energy and Pollution Reduction Act, which requires California to get half of its electricity from renewable sources by 2030. Besides laws like these, there are many different ways that people can cut down on using fossil fuels, some as simple as turning off light bulbs when not being used or carpooling to places.

With fossil fuels becoming more and more scarce every day, many people are turning to renewable resources as an alternative form of energy.

NEED A NEW TESTING ALTERNATIVE

Standardized testing is an easy way to compare different students for colleges, but it isn’t great for the students

by McKayla Bogda

mckayla5bogda@gmail.com | @mbogda5

Standardized testing has been around since the early 20th century and has been growing ever since. In theory, standardized testing is great, but in reality there are a lot of problems with it. There needs to be a fair way to compare students, but standardized testing isn’t fair to all students.

Some students are really smart but have testing anxiety so they do poorly on the SAT or ACT. Being judged based on how they do on one test is unfair to them.

The point of college is to prepare students for the real world, but standardized testing is not like the real world. In a job, people can ask coworkers questions and can look up information if they do not know it, so standardized testing isn’t an

accurate representation of what colleges should look for.

On the other side of things, standardized testing has now become something that students obsess over. It has become an end goal and students only focus on the subjects that affect it. Students just study for the test so they do well on it.

The problem is that they are only prepared for the test, not for college. This also puts students with more money at an advantage because they can pay for special programs that are designed to help them do well on the tests.

There needs to be an alternative to standardized testing because some students just can’t test well, it tests students in a way that isn’t accurate in the real world, it has become a competition between who can prepare the best for it and it gives students with more money an advantage because they can pay for programs that are designed to help students succeed.

OPINIONS | FHNTODAY.COM | PAGE BY GABERIEL AVALOS

42

TOP EIGHT:

Things to do under $10 Eight ideas of ways to stay entertained while on a budget, whether staying in or going out 1) GO GEOCACHING

2) YARN BOMBING

Geocaching is a large treasure hunt with people all over the world. It’s like Pokemon Go except what you find isn’t virtual. There are different sized caches to search for or hide. Visit geocaching.com to make an account and use the app on your phone to navigate your way to different caches.

Knitters started Yarn Bombing as a form of street art by knitting yarn around things. While typically projects are knitted, wrapping yarn around objects will work. Grab some friends and a cheap roll of yarn and get started on things like trees or an old bike. Just make sure to ask for permission if you venture off your property.

3) BUILD A FORT

4) CHECK OUT LOCAL EVENTS

Tap into your childhood and get sheets and chairs and build a fort.

Get a big group, split into teams and make it into a competition to see who can make the biggest and most extravagant fort in 30 minutes. When you’re done, chow down on some snacks and watch some movies, play board games or read a book.

Saint Charles Community College often hosts outdoor movies, plays or food truck nights. On their website, under student life and campus events, there’s a calendar of various fun and exciting things to do. Local radio stations such as 106.5 The Arch often have many different affordable events happening as well.

5) CAMPFIRE JAM

6) SKATING

Find a place you can start a fire and invite friends to join you with instruments and food. Everyone can bring a little something to eat that they already have at home and instruments could range from a guitar to an empty drawer in place of drums. Bring some blankets and hot chocolate in case it gets cold.

Anytime of the year roller or ice skating is a fun way to spend time.

The Rec-Plex has $4-6 admission for their indoor ice rink and skates can be rented for another $3.75.

Great Skate has $6.00 admission and $2.00 skate rental. You could even go to a free skate park such as the one at Fountain Lakes Park in St. Charles.

7) PENNY DATE

8) MAKE AN OBSTACLE COURSE

To introduce some spontaneity when going out, find a penny and get in a car. Designate one side of the penny for left and the other for right. When making a stop flip the penny to determine which way to turn. Ending up at a great restaurant is just as much a possibility as the middle of no where, so be careful.

Get outside and make an obstacle course using household items like tape, a bike wheel or a broom.

Tap into your American Ninja Warrior side and see how creative and challenging you can get with it. Race your friends and try out different ways to get through the course like by riding a bike or skateboard.

(Top Eight by Sami Schmid)

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OPINIONS | FHNTODAY.COM | PAGE BY SAMI SCHMID

A protester holds a sign in support of Jill Stein before the presidential debate at Washington University on Oct. 9. Many protesters attended in support of opening the debate to the third party candidates. (Photo by Alex Rowe)

Third Option, Best Option?

With Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton being the two most unpopular major party candidates in U.S. history, people should not only consider voting third party, but it should be encouraged

by Anthony Kristensen

anthony.kristensen17@gmail.com | @anthonyk17slsg

The 2016 presidential election has been nothing less than a circus and a cruel joke to our constitutional republic. With candidates flipping over and over on different policies, blatantly lying to the public and so many more issues with the current candidates, it has not only shamed the American people, but it has made the U.S. a laughing stock across the globe. As Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton wait to see the results of the election in just six days, most Americans will likely just be happy that the 2016 presidential election will finally be over.

However, it doesn’t always need to be that way.

With Clinton and Trump reaching historic unfavorable ratings, 55.1 percent for Clinton and 58.5 percent for Trump according to the Real Clear Politics average, third party candidates have received more attention than usual. Libertarian Party candidate Gary Johnson has been floating around 10 percent national support and Green Party candidate Jill Stein has been around 5 percent. These aren’t small numbers, given the fact that Johnson received only 1 percent of the popular vote in 2012.

Every time an election comes around, typical Republican and Democrat voters will say that “a vote for Johnson is a vote for Clinton” or “a vote for Stein is a vote for Trump” or vice versa, as they believe that one should vote strictly for the lesser of two evils to keep the other out of office. However, this is simply just not the case. First of all, the simple fact is that

the vote falls under the name of the candidate that the person votes for. Not “they voted for Stein, add a tally for Trump” or “they voted for Johnson, count it for Clinton.”

Secondly, a voter should vote for a candidate that represents their values. If someone supported Bernie Sanders in the primary and can’t stomach the prospect of supporting Hillary Clinton, they should look into supporting Jill Stein. Or if someone voted for Ted Cruz in the primary and they vomit at the thought of a Trump presidency, they should look into the idea of voting for Gary Johnson. There are too many candidates on the ballot to narrow it down to just two.

Lastly, voters should pick a candidate that they can feel good about supporting. Feel good about supporting Trump or Clinton? Fine. Feel good about supporting Johnson, Stein or any other candidate on the ballot? That’s good too. If one can truly look at a candidate and say “that’s someone that I can get behind,” they should support that candidate. It’s not a wasted vote if someone supports a candidate they believe in. A wasted vote is one for someone that they don’t morally support.

No matter whom voters support, they should have the moral capacity to be able to stand up and voice support for that candidate. Don’t vote for a candidate that you don’t believe in. If that means writing in a candidate that you supported in the primary, then do it. Vote for someone that you can stand up for, for someone that you agree with. Vote for someone that you believe in.

NEVER DO THE TIME WARP AGAIN

by Jake Price

japrice024@gmail.com | @dragonjake158

“Rocky Horror Picture Show: Let’s Do The Time Warp Again” is a remake of the 1975 cult classic which follows the story of a young couple whose car breaks down, and then they try to get help from the wicked Dr. Frank-n-Furter. I wanted to like this TV movie because I love it when Hollywood reimagines old films, but this movie is so poorly made.

The director Kenny Ortega’s directing was bad in this film. The direction this film went in was a very awful choice. The main idea of the film was to make it seem like it was a live show, but at the same time still a movie. This made the film look cheesy and unprofessional.

Almost every actor in the film overacted.

All of the dialogue seemed very forced, and some just tried too hard to make their character interesting. I said almost because there is one person who did a good job with their role, Laverne Cox. She was great as Frank-n-Furter.

Although I didn’t like this movie very much, I really enjoyed the music. The songs and the dances were well done and very entertaining.

If you are a fan of the original movie, you will hate this remake very much. If you’re new to the original you might think it’s really cheesy and bizarre. If you want to see it, watch at your own risk.

OPINIONS | FHNTODAY.COM | PAGE BY JAKE PRICE

44

STUDENT TAKE: SHOULD PEOPLE BE ABLE TO CARRY GUNS WITHOUT A PERMIT?

“I don’t really think it’s a good idea. There are people who would use it for certain intentions.”

DALIA GONZALEZ, 11

“I don’t think it changes anything. People who wouldn’t have carried guns before are more likely to now, but that doesn’t really change much.”

CHRISTIAN BLANCHARD, 12

“It’s awesome. constitutional carry is definitely the way to go, that way people can defend themselves if the situation arises.”

ZACH BOYCE, 11

“I think it’s dangerous because if they don’t have to carry a permit you don’t know if they’re experienced or cautious enough to carry it.”

GENESIS HUDSON, 11

NORTH STAR TAKE

A FATAL SHOT TO THE STATE OF MISSOURI Missouri’s recent “constitutional carry” law removes common sense protections against gun violence and should be reversed On Behalf of the Editorial Staff yourfhn@fhntoday.com | @FHNtoday

“It just depends on the person who carries the gun. For some people it’s not an issue, but for others it is.”

AMANDA HASENBECK, 9

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W

e have a gun problem.

In 2015, 179 people in St. Louis were shot and killed, according to the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department, and a slowdown is nowhere in sight.

This violence rips neighborhoods apart, compounding economic and social tensions.

Gun violence demands action, but the Missouri legislature consistently takes steps in the wrong direction. Their September overturn of Gov. Jay Nixon’s Senate Bill 656 veto will enable

OPINIONS | FHNTODAY.COM | PAGE BY NOAH SLAUGHTER

Missourians to carry concealed firearms without permits, background checks or any training.

This is a dangerous move that could worsen violence, and it must be changed.

Supporters of this bill see gun laws as an unfair restriction on their personal liberty. They cite their Second Amendment rights and see any form of regulation as a threat. The fact is that concealed carry for law-abiding citizens was never threatened under previous laws.

People who cleared a background check and went through basic training were free to buy and carry concealed firearms, and the regulations were only meant to stop guns

north | star Editors-in-Chief: Carolynn Gonzalez Anthony Kristensen

Business Manager: Kayla Martinez Business: Gabriel Avalos Madison Clifton Managing Editor: Aly Doty Copy Editor: Noah Slaughter Team Editors: McKayla Bogda Ethan Slaughter General Staff: Stacy Beasley Heeral Patel Myah Blocker Jake Price Morgan Bridges Paige Prinster Olivia Fetsch Mackenzie Pugh Martin Groves Ashya Roberson Heidi Hauptman Samantha Schmid Samantha Herr Keegan Schuster Alex Lane Christopher St. Aubin Anna Lindquist Hannah Wilson Rebekah Maye Kylah Woods Sarah Zimmerman Editor-in-Chief of Photography: Alex Rowe Newspaper Photo Editor: Riley McCrackin Yearbook Photo Editor: Hannah Medlin Photographers: Sam Alexander Matthew Jewsen Morgan Bales Jared Kinnard Emily Biehle Bernadette Kornberger Sam Cary Kyra Peper Aaron Dupske Haleigh Schlogl Madi Graves Savannah Wandzel Kelsey Zitzner

from getting in the hands of felons. Now, these It also increases the likelihood that civilians will common sense protections are gone and it is have guns, so police officers now have to assume easier for people with dangerous intentions that everyone carries a gun. to destroy lives and communities. This bill Finally, this bill expands the so-called Castle removes obstacles meant to stop criminals from Doctrine, which previously justified deadly force carrying guns and could also increase the pool of when one felt threatened on his or her own weapons in the public for them to steal. property. Now it is valid in public. Because of the Besides the potential criminal threat, this law vague and unquantifiable meaning of “feeling could also increase accidental shootings. Looser threatened,” deadly force can easily be excused gun laws generally mean’s more throughout the state, even when it guns in the public, and removing is unnecessary. the firearm training requirement In adopting this measure, the To learn more about means that more people will Missouri legislature has done Missouri’s new gun bill, carry guns who don’t know away with what many people on check out page 11 of this how to use them. This increases both sides of the issue agree were issue. the chance that guns will go satisfactory gun laws. The previous off accidentally or will be used rules provided regulations to incorrectly, leading to even more injuries and protect civilians while not infringing on lawdeaths. So far this year, there have been 1,696 abiding Missourians’ rights to carry firearms. accidental shootings in the U.S., according to the Lawmakers have now buckled to the gun lobby Gun Violence Archive. This legislation promises to and refuse to see evidence that more guns and add to this number. fewer safety precautions can create a volatile Senate Bill 656 also takes away law situation in the state. Our state Congress should enforcement’s ability to deny guns to high-risk listen to the voices of its own citizens and those individuals like domestic abusers. This makes it from other states and take action to reverse this more difficult for police to protect Missourians. decision before it becomes a fatal one.

? MORE INFO

FHNTODAY STAFF Editors-in-Chief: Michal Basford Chase Meyer Social Media Editor: Isaiah Bryant FHNgameday Editor: Jacob Lintner

Web Staff: Madison Abanathie Jadon Herrman Gavin Atkinson Daniel Mulawa Tyler Rogers Editor-in-Chief of Video: Brayton Larson Special Projects Editor: Alyssa Barber Podcast Editor: Taylor Sheridan Video Staff: Kamryn Bell Madilyn Shinault Kelsey Decker William Skaggs Daniel Kuhn KalI Skikas Lupe Medina Lily Sontheimer Reide Pearson Adam Quigley Taylor Perry Cole Wilkinson Nathan Williams Advisers: Aaron Manfull Jordyn Kiel

OPINIONS | FHNTODAY.COM | PAGE BY NOAH SLAUGHTER

46

Wayback wednesday

Throwback to elementary school with a fortune teller and M.A.S.H.. Cut out and make a fortune teller that will tell how the semester will end with grades and complete a M.A.S.H. on what college life has in store

RED

2. Fold in colored corners to the middle

1. Choose color and spell it out changing direction of fold for each letter 2. Pick one of four numbers and count it out, then repeat once more 3. Choose number and open up to see fortune

13

Fail miserably

HOW TO TELL FORTUNE

Mostly C’s

4. Push up smaller triangles

BLUE

17

M.A.S.H. M.A.S.H. Maybe Accepted Sorry Honors College

All B’s

Borderline B’s in two classes

16

Straight A’s

GREEN

A’s in all classes but two

3. Fold in lighter colored triangles into darker square

15

20

Pass all classes except one

1. Cut out fortune teller

Only pass one class

HOW TO FOLD

14

19

18

PURPLE

Find out your future life in college through M.A.S.H.. Choose a random number then count that many and cross off the answer you count to, continue this until you have one in each category

Colleges

Rooming

Extra Schooling Relationship

St. Charles Community College University of Missouri Missouri State University Truman State University

Two person dorm Four person suite Apartment alone Rent house with friends

Medical School Master’s Degree Law School Doctorate Degree

None Still with high school partner Serious It’s complicated

Scholarship

Activity

Pets

Number of Friends

$0 $5000 $10000 Full Ride

Greek life Sports team Job None

Fish Guinea Pig Cat Dog

1 10 50 100 (Graphics by McKayla Bogda)