North Star

Francis Howell North St. Charles, MO 10.08.14 Vol. 29, Issue 3

A+ Program Cuts • Capitol Drive • Fencing • Green Smoothies

the done zone A downtown donut shop is just one of 10 places to hit up over break.

page 13

CONTENTS

Possible CutS to A+ Program

State funding cut poses threat of potential benefit reductions to A+ Program

NEWS DRAMA CLUB

03

New drama teacher brings changes to club

VOLUNTEEN NATION

04

Local teens volunteer time and work with Whole Foods to help promote peace in Ferguson

FEATURES NEW SCHNUCKS

09

New Schnucks location offers shoppers unique grocery shopping experience 11

TOP 8 HALLOWEEN Eight costumes, foods, and haunted houses to check out this Halloween season

SPORTS GOING PRO

17

Nick DiMarco, an FHN graduate, spends time with the Baltimore Ravens.

THE GOONIES

18

“Official Unofficial Cheerleaders” comply with school dress code

OPINIONS HEALTH DRINKS

21

Green smoothies are all the craze right now and they’re the tastiest drink around

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Have an opinion on something in this month’s paper? Send us a letter about it to room 026 or an email to yourfhn@fhntoday.com.

ON THE COVER Strange Donuts in St. Louis is a unique donut shop open in the early morning and late at night. See page 13 for our full list of the top 10 local fall break destinations. (cover photo by lauren price)

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FHNTODAY.COM PAGE BY ZOE LAWSON

10.08.14

Junior Andrew Stoker works to assemble a magnetic DNA model for Dawn Hahn’s Principles of Biomedical Sciences class. Stoker earns his A+ hours by setting up labs and assisting students when they need help. (abby temper)

BY RISA TAKENAKA

risatakenaka97@gmail.com • @ricericebaby143

Last month, schools, parents, and students familiar with the A+ Program were shocked to learn that a drop in state funding may cause a drastic difference in the reimbursements that students have previously received through the program. As the number of students within the program has risen over the years, the costs on the state have increased also; an estimated $30.4 million were spent last year alone. “When we first found out a few days before September, we were shocked,” FHN counselor and A+ coordinator Ann Herman said. “It’s very disappointing to hear about the possibility of cuts, but at this point I’m kind of reserving judgement.” While final decisions have not yet been made, the Missouri Department of Higher Education informed others that the result is likely to be a reduction of about three to four hours of credit per student. A finalized solution is to be further discussed and determined later this fall, and the new policy would be in effect January of 2015, meaning current seniors may have to pay for some of their college credit hours. “Only a few parents called after we spread the news via the school’s social media sites and through email, and they were all very understanding,” Ann Herman said. “The reactions throughout North and the community have been similar.” The A+ Program is a state-funded program that allows high school students to receive two years of free education at a community college for meeting an array of specific requirements, such as 95% attendance throughout four years of high school and a minimum GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale, along with 50 hours of unpaid mentoring or tutoring. “So far I’ve done around 35 hours of mentoring, and plan on doing the rest at Henderson on fall break,” senior Jordin Graham said. “I’m not really sure how I feel on the issue yet. I guess you could say I’m a little nervous considering I was depending on that for my college future, but I’m hopeful that a solution works out and we are all given full credit.” The A+ coordinators plan to take reflective actions when the final decision is out, but for now, all they can do is hope for the best. “I had a positive experience with A+ and it was good to transition from high school to college without having to pay the cost; I’m bummed to hear about the cuts,” 2012 North graduate Lisa Saville said.

Senior Quoe Nquyen earns his A+ hours by tutoring kids in Christine Edwards Algebra I class. Other A+ students earn hours by volunteering at elementry schools in the district or working in the learning commons. (sammie savala)

MUSIC IN MOTION RETURNS FOR SECOND YEAR On Oct. 11 the FHN Knightpride marching band will host the Music in Motion competition. This will be the second year that this competition has taken place, and nine bands are expected to compete. “Music In Motion is a giant fundraiser for the marching band program,” director Jeff Moorman said. “Without it our dues would go up 100 bucks. The more money we make the less [the students] have to pay. It is a giant incentive for them to work hard and for more people to come back next year.” In addition to being a fundraiser, Music In Motion is also an opportunity for the FHN students to see other programs. “I think some of them like escorting the bands

and talking to the staff members,” Moorman said. “They’re not used to interacting with other bands. Hopefully it makes our students realize that we’re all the same.” The competition will also be experiencing some changes, including the addition of a preliminary and finals round. One thing that will stay the same is that there will be a clinic where directors receive feedback about their show from the judges. “It’s a unique thing that we do at our competition so the directors and the band get advice directly from the judges instead of just from a tape,” drum major Zoe Willott said. (brief by emma pursley)

daniel livingstone, 12

Seniors Dominique Meyer and Sam Ritchie laugh during the filming of a PSA for the St. Louis Rams. The goal of the PSA is to promote donating blood. (photo submitted)

senior apparel Senior delegates are working to finish new apparel ideas such as bro tanks, sweatpants, and assembly T-shirts. The goal is to create something that the students will enjoy wearing and keeping over the years after they graduate. “I’m really excited for everyone to see our hard work,” Senior Delegate Emma Cleveland said. “I think these are the best ideas we’ve had and I think they’re going to be really popular with the class. People can expect to be able to buy them right after Fall Break during lunch.” (brief by kyleigh kristensen)

SCCC COLLEGE FAIR

Volunteer Knights Helps Create PSA

FHN club works with St. Louis Rams to raise awareness about blood donations The Volunteer Knights Program was invited to take part in a public service announcement (PSA) on Friday, Sept. 12 with the St. Louis Rams, Fox Sports Midwest, and the American Red Cross. Gym teacher and Volunteer Knights sponsor Jenelle Louis-Bauer attended with seniors Dominique Meyer and Sam Ritchie who participated in the commercial. The purpose was to help encourage blood donations and to raise awareness about the importance of giving blood to the American Red Cross. The PSA is currently airing on Fox Sports Midwest during Rams games as well as at the Edward Jones Dome during the football games. “The best part was getting to talk to the other student

athletes in the area,” Meyer said. “It’s cool to be able to say I’ve been in an advertisement.” Every year, the Volunteer Knights Program does a blood drive and during the PSA, Rams player Barrett Jones talked about the importance of giving blood. Ritchie’s and Meyer’s role in the commercial was to sit back, smile, and cheer a lot as they wore Francis Howell North gear to represent our school. “Dominique was right in front with FHN on her shirt so I thought that was pretty cool,” Louis-Bauer said. “I loved being able to see the kids take part in that with people who have the same interest in volunteer work that they do.” (brief by hayley vossmeyer)

NHS raises money for diabetes

Norm the knight update

NHS is selling paper hands which students can purchase for a dollar. These hands are being sold to raise money for the American Diabetes Association. Senior NHS sponsor Angie Mason has a personal connection to this cause since her son was diagnosed this year. “My son was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes back in March,” Mason said. “We have always helped out the American Diabetes Association with their walk, and then because of my contact there, she asked if we could sell hands for them.” The NHS members choosing to sell the hands receive points for the hands they sell, but Mason believes that some of the students have a deeper motivation than just getting their points. “For those that have been touched by diabetes, whether through themselves or family or a friend, it means more to them,” Mason said. “It’s a disease that has no cure.”

Last year, an online poll was taken in which students voted for a new mascot uniform for Norm The Knight. “We found out it’s more expensive than we anticipated, so we’re looking into alternatives,” Activities Director Mike Janes said. “We’d have to raise the money. We’re looking into raising the money through StuCo and donations from the senior and junior class.” FHNis weighing its options to see if they could be more prudent with this amount of money or if they should spend the money on the mascot. “We’re still trying to decide if it warrants the cost,” Administrative Assistant Arlene Kearns said. “We’d like to do something because of how heavy the knight head is. We could buy five Halloween knight costumes and save a huge amount of money.” (brief by kyleigh kristensen)

(brief by emma pursley)

On Oct. 16, SCC will be holding its 24th Annual St. Charles College Fair. The fair will be held from 6-7:30 p.m. “Really anyone can go, but it’s mainly aimed towards upperclassmen,” FHN Guidance Counselor Jennifer Schwarz said. “Juniors and some seniors, I’m sure, would find it really helpful because figuring out what’s available can be a bit confusing. College fairs are there to help you figure out where you want to go and to show you what opportunities are out there all in one location.” (brief by kyleigh kristensen)

Changing math Mu Alpha Theta is FHN’s math honor society. The GPA requirement to join the organization is a 3.0 in math classes Algebra II or higher. Members can also earn an honors cord to wear at graduation by maintaining a 3.5 or higher GPA in these classes. Sponsor Pamela Stratton also added an age restriction that only allows seniors to join. “In order to be a member, you have to have above average grades in college prep math,” Stratton said. “If someone meets the requirements then they should definitely join.” (brief by kyleigh kristensen)

FHNTODAY.COM PAGE BY ZOE LAWSON

10.08.14

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TOP TWEETS Sophomore stage manager Courtney Olsen works with drama teacher Kim Sulzner on stage plans for the upcoming fall play.

@BCoonrod85

@louisfeldhaus I don’t care if a teacher gives me a year for an assignment I’ll still wait until the very last night to do it

Enjoy fall before it leaves

3 FAVORITES Louis Feldhaus, 9

8 FAVORITES Blake Coonrod, 10

Kim Sulzner shows crew members how to cut at an angle on a compound miter saw during one of their afternoon meetings. Crew members meet twice a week to prepare for the fall play. Crew members use wood to make platforms and frames. (ashleigh jenkins)

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Acting Toward Accolades

Drama Club members afforded new opportunities with expanded membership and by following state guidelines BY ZOE LAWSON

zkl131r@gmail.com • @zkl131

With the addition of new drama teacher, Kim Sulzner, the Drama Club has added 20 new freshmen to their ranks. They are also now following MSHAA guidelines and are working on becoming an Honor Troupe, a distinction requiring members to perform community service, and earn points by putting on shows. “I’m nervous for new rules or regulations she might put in place,” Junior Class Representative for Drama Club Megan Thielbar said. “It seems like she’ll definitely be more positive than negative for sure. There’s not too much I’m worried about.” Follow the link Drama club members, including Vice President, goo.gl/KxcgK5 to see sophomore Zac Cary, are looking forward to see more about Sulzner’s move to FHN. what changes will mean this year and what a new director will bring the growing club. Drama Club members hope that Sulzner will be supportive of new creative endeavors and work effectively as both a director and teacher. “I’m nervous to see how it will go, how the actors will respond to Mrs. Sulzner, but I’m also excited to see how she will get to know all the students,” Cary said. In order to spend more time with her children, Sulzner moved from teach-

WATCH

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FHNTODAY.COM PAGE BY ALEX ARGER

10.08.14

ing high school, at Francis Howell Central, to middle school, at Hollenbeck. She looks forward to getting back to teaching at the high school level, and seizing opportunities not afforded at the middle school level. “The maturity level [of middle schoolers and high schoolers] is a huge difference,” Sulzner said. “Middle schoolers just can’t do a lot of things. They can’t really build sets and use a lot of costumes. With high schoolers, you don’t have to be constantly looking over their shoulder.” Sulzner looks forward to putting on plays this year, and the opportunity to expand beyond what she could do at the middle school level. She plans to put on two main-stage shows including “Bad Seed,” a thriller by William March in which a mother suspects that her 8-year-old daughter is a serial killer. Auditions were held Thursday, Sept. 11. The play will take place Nov. 20-22. Students are excited to embrace the new opportunities with and to make Drama Club the kind of family it was in the past. They hope to stage a variety of shows and performances and become an Honor Troupe. “Everybody in high school kind of has their place, they find their club, or their activity where they just kind of fit in,” Thielbar said. “That’s what drama club has been for me, and what I hope we can make it for all our new members and for Mrs. Sulzner.”

@hannahruthian

i wish i was one of those people who had enough confidence to just walk up to new people and strike up conversations

2 RETWEETS 7 FAVORITES

1 RETWEETS 4 FAVORITES

Hannah Wilson, 12

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@sierrateuscher

No matter what the score board looks like, I wouldn’t trade being in the class of 2015 for any other... #greenteam

Sierra Teuscher, 12

Peacefully Piecing together a community After the Ferguson shooting, a St. Louis based charity teams up with a local grocery store to promote peace in the Ferguson area BY LAUREN PIKE

laurenpike14@gmail.com • @pike_n_ike

T

he shooting of early August left Ferguson reeling due to the effects of looting and protesting in the community. As a result of the damages, Volunteen Nation decided to gather its force of teen volunteers and work to promote peace in the Ferguson area through volunteer-submitted peace initiatives. With the support of Brentwood Whole Foods Market’s St. Louis Peace Grant, Volunteen Nation will implement up to 20 peace projects in Ferguson. “So far, we’ve had over 300 topic applications and that’s been amazing for us to see,” Co-founder and Vice President of Volunteen Nation Simone Bernstein said. “The projects really vary in scope, and in size and idea.” Volunteen Nation is a national youth-led, not for profit volunteer organization that provides grants and resources for youth to get involved in their communities. In order to provide aid to the Ferguson community, the organization currently allows students to submit their ideas for peaceful initiatives to implement in the community. Volunteen Nation ambassador and FHC senior Joey Silver recently submitted an initiative for a meet-a-cop event at area preschools in order to teach young children the importance of police officers in a community. “Well, I’d like to do a little DNA thing with their fingerprints,” Silver said. “That would be fun and it would show them how it’s important for cops to do their job. When the little kids see their older brothers or their parents going out rioting for something that they don’t quite understand, they already have in the back of their head like, ‘Oh, cops are bad.’ Cops are here to protect us. It’s their job to make sure that everyone is safe and when there’s a bad person or someone they think could be bad, then they need to do what they can to protect everyone else.” According to Marketing and Community Relations Specialist for the Brentwood Whole Foods Jessica Seratti, the partnership with Volunteen nation formed as a result of some

tweets from their account calling for volunteers and promoting grants for peace in the St. Louis area. Wanting to help out, Seratti reached out to Volunteen Nation and as a result, the Whole a Foods Market St. Louis Peace Grant was created. In order to raise money for these grants, the Brentwood Whole Foods will use their One Dime at a Time program. Through this program, the goal is to eliminate single-use plastic bags. Any customer who brings their own bags or purchases a reusable bag and uses it to bag their groceries has the option to take 10 cents off of their purchase or donate the money to Volunteen Nation. “First, I think one of the main goals of One Dime at a Time, aside from trying to give back to the community, is to really help a not for profit organization shine,” Seratti said. “We really wanted to use that platform to promote the organization and get as many people that come thorough our doors to know what Volunteen Nation does, who they are, who they serve and their mission and so that’s kind if the ultimate goal of the program. With the peace grants, I think there’s a lot of goals, but we definitely want to inspire people to kind of take care of their communites, to focus on their communities, focus what they can do to give back, what they can do to kind of promote positivity and peace in their community.” With these initiatives for peace, teen volunteers in the area have many opportunities to aid in the healing of the Ferguson community. Along with the peace grants, Volunteen Nation has cleaned up trash, planted peace gardens and set up workshops for peaceful conflict resolution around the Ferguson area. Efforts to restore Ferguson are scheduled to occur throughout the year. “The most rewarding part is seeing them [the volunteers] so excited about giving back because so many volunteers say how much the hate giving back to the community because they never found the right opportunity,” Bernstein said. “When you find the right opportunity that fits your skill set and interest, you are so excited and passionate about what you do, and that’s what’s so amazing for me to see.”

@Lord_Watts online shopping turns from “oh i need a pair of new shoes” to “how do i have a $3,000 cart on amazon of gummy bears and spray paint”

4 FAVORITES Tommy Watts, 11

Simone Bernstein voluenteers at the Ferguson library while schools are closed. She reads a book to a group of students about growing fruits and vegetables. After reading the book, each student had the opportunity to plant a seed in a cup of dirt and bring it home. (photo submitted)

Student volunteers sweep up trash and debris on a corner of the road in Ferguson. Volunteers also planted peace gardens and helped school children in local libraries. (photo submitted)

FHNTODAY.COM PAGE BY ALEX ARGER

10.08.14

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SENIORS

YEARBOOK ADS DUE SOON DON’T MISS OUT! GET THE FORM AT: WWW.FHNtoday.COM/ADVERTISING

Deadline is November 13, 2014

SENIORS

Francis Howell North High School Yearbook

2549 Hackmann Rd. u St. Charles, MO 63303 u 636-851-5048

: T ALL ADS ARE FULL COLOR!A O G F IN SIN E TI R R O E M V D AD N A m/ M .co R FO day E to H N T H T .F E G WW W FHN Student Recognition Ad Order Form

1) Choose the type of ad you want. 2) answer the following questions for us: Parent/Guardian Name:

____________________________ ____________________________

The 1/9 page ad, which is approximately the size of a business card, has enough room for one picture and a message. In the 2/9 page ad, you may use one or two photographs and a message. In the 1/3 page ad you may have up to four photographs and the full page could have up to 10-12 photos. Remember, the more photos you want in the smaller they will be.

Please check the box of the size you would like:

Address: ______________________

Full Page (10.8x8 in) - $360

____________________________

2/3 Page (7.1x8 in) - $250

City: _____________________

1/3 Page (3.5x8 in) - $140

State: _________ Zip:_________

2/9 Page (3.5x5.3 in) - $95

Phone: Home (___)___________

1/9 Page (3.5x2.6 in) - $60

Work (___)___________ email address:

MIXING PHOTOS? Feel free to include black and white photos in your color ad if you wish. Both types of photos can be reproduced without a problem.

LOST/DAMAGED PHOTOS? While every effort is made to ensure photos are protected, on rare occurrences accidents happen. Please don’t send photos you would hate to be without. We will do everything we can to safely return what you send us. PAYMENT? Ads need to be paid for at time of placement. Please do not send cash through the mail. We do accept checks. Please make checks payable to “FHN Yearbook.”

___________________________________

STUDENT’S NAME:

__________________________________

STUDENT’S GRADE LEVEL:

We will accept payment by credit card. If you would like to pay by credit card, please email jordyn.klackner@fhsdschools.org for instructions.

____________________________

MESSAGE: Please include your message on a separate sheet of paper. Include the student’s name, if you wish it to be part of the actual message in the ad. PHOTOS: Photos must be included with the order. They cannot arrive after the Nov. 13 deadline.

NEED IDEAS? See last year’s yearbook for ideas or call 851-5048.

Number of photos enclosed

3) send it to us

Attach photos (do not staple), payments, and this complete order form (with return stamped envelope) and mail to:

Jordyn Klackner FHN High School 2549 Hackmann Rd. St. Charles, MO 63303

f ashioDnenim

PHOTOS BY ARIEL KIRKPATRICK ON MAYA TOP: Urban Outfitters, $30 T-Shirt: Urban Outfitters $25 Jeans: Levi’s, $50 ON PARM Shirt: H&M, $15 T-Shirt: H&M, $5 Jeans: H&M, $20 Shoes: Etnies, $50

ON HAYDEN Jacket: Surface To Air, $258 T-Shirt: H&M, $5 Jeans: Levi’s, $50 Shoes: Nike SB Air Jordan 1s, $158

jeans A staple in nearly any wardrobe, jeans are an easy piece that can make outfits stand out. The best thing about jeans and denim as a whole is that it can be either dressed up or dressed down. The only downside to jeans is that there are so many different options, thus an outfit can either be made or broken with jeans. With a varying amount of washes ranging from light to dark and numerous cuts you can style them any way possible. Slim fitting jeans work well with nearly any outfit, mainly because they compliment the wearer’s silhouette. Levi’s 511s are great slim fitting jeans whose quality definitely matches, if not exceeds the $50 price point. If you’re looking to go higher end or want a more personal experience with your jeans, look into raw denim. It may not be on the cheaper side, but it’s totally worth it, as it allows for the jeans to fade naturally according to how they’re worn.

shirts/jackets With denim, you have nearly unlimited options, as there are also denim tops available that can be styled with nearly anything. Denim jackets can add another layer of depth to your outfit without complicating things too much. As with jeans, there are a wide range of washes available for denim jackets that can be used to fulfil any sort of color palette you have. Sticking to a normal wash such as a darker indigo gives you a greater field of versatility. When wearing a denim jacket, try layering it with basic colored shirts, such as a white, grey, or black T-shirt. Another layering option is a basic colored collared button down. It adds an edge that can really make an outfit shine. Check out stores like H&M or Zara for cheap denim tops that look nice. Higher end options include denim tops from brands like A.P.C. or Gustin. They’re much heavier than their H&M counterparts and are great for keeping warm during the cold nights.

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FHNTODAY.COM PAGE BY NICK WYER

10.08.14

ON HAYDEN

Jacket: Surface to Air, $295 ON HAYDEN Shirt Hat: Supreme, $44 Jeans Sweater: Thrifted, $2 Shoes:

T-Shirt: H&M, $5 Jeans: A.P.C., $185 Shoes: Nike SB Air Jordan 1s, $158

ON PARM Shirt: H&M, $15 T-Shirt: H&M, $5 ON PARM Jeans: H&M, $20 Shirt: H&M, $15 Shoes: Etnies, T-Shirt: H&M,$50 $5

Jeans: H&M, $20 Shoes: Etnies, $50

On Them Senior Parm Singh is seen wearing a denim button up from H&M, Striped T-Shirt from H&M, black jeans from Levi’s, and a pair of black low tops from Etnies. This outfit incorporates a darker wash denim button up and relies on it to take the attention off some of the louder elements in his outfit. It’s simple, but incorporates a few pieces that warrant some attention, such as the striped T-shirt. “I like the denim button up because it kinda mellows the outfit out,” Singh said. “The stripes are loud, and I don’t want them to be too over the top, so by throwing the denim shirt on over it, it gives it a cleaner, more subtle look.” Senior Hayden Jensen is seen wearing a six-panel hat from Supreme, a sweater that he thrifted from Goodwill, black T-Shirt from H&M, denim from A.P.C., and a pair of white Nike SB x Air Jordan 1s. This outfit incorporates a darker color palette and relies on the jeans to keep the rest of his outfit muted while allowing the shoes to be a pop of color. The pop of color allows for a unique, attention grabbing element of his outfit to be shown off, “I like picking new things up from Goodwill,” Jensen said. “It’s like giving something a second life. I’m also a huge ‘jeans and t-shirt’ guy, it’s what I always wear, so it’s only natural that my style reflects that. I gravitate towards darker colors during the fall months because they’re better suited for the colder weather.”

On her ON MAYA TOP: Thrifted, $10 Shirt: Wet Seal, $5 Jeans: Levi’s, $50

Senior Maya Kelch is seen wearing a denim top that she thrifted from Avalon Exchange, black jeans from Levi’s, and a pair of Vans Eras. Maya’s outfit is a great example of how two different washes can work together to make a cohesive outfit. Maya’s splash of peach from her top also allows for another colorful element to expose itself without being the main piece of the outfit. The color palette also works well with the fall time, as the darker colors mesh well with the ideal colors of fall, and the softer tone of the peach top giving off a fading summertime vibe, similar to the changing colors of leaves. “I love wearing denim, especially in the fall time.” Kelch said. “I can play with all sorts of layers and ideas, and with the weather changing, I’m able to throw on different pieces of denim and make an outfit that looks good. I love layering denim on top of denim and trying to not make myself look stupid while doing it.”

Pin It! If you’re looking for some inspiration, check out our denim Pinterest board http://goo.gl/wWP8cR

FHNTODAY.COM PAGE BY NICK WYER

10.08.14

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The neon sign welcomes customers to the new Schuncks store. The store is located at 1900 First Capitol Drive (photos by ashton stegman)

African American Senior leaders A club works to celebrate the African American culture BY EMMA PURSLEY

Emma1996ecp@gmail.com

African American Senior Leaders is a club that has been working to raise awareness of racial prejudice in FHN for many years now. This club works as an outreach program to help young African American students, but also to educate students and teachers who don’t know as much about the African American culture. “We go speak to the Barnwell minorities or African American students, we just have a discussion about what high school’s like, what to expect and stuff like that,” senior Rodney Malone said. The AASL works with African American students to teach them how to handle situations where racism may occur, and to tell them what to expect as their high school careers progress. “It’s gonna help freshmen African Americans through high school, like give them tips and stuff here and there for what to do and what to expect,” Rodney said. AASL consists of senior African Americans who are interested in helping other FHN minority students and educating the masses in the school about the culture of African Americans. “The group is kinda designed as a leadership group, so they’ll be responsible for meeting with African American freshmen who are struggling,” AASL sponsor Mary Kerr-Grant said. Although there are many issues regarding racism that face the community, AASL will be focusing primarily on FHN and helping to better the student body here, before facing the problems of the community. “From the first meeting I think we’re going to deal mainly with FHN,” Rodney said. “We have to deal with the issues here before we deal with the issues outside of the school.”

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FHNTODAY.COM PAGE BY MEGAN GRANNEMANN

10.8.14

A cashier helps a women check out in the express lane.

A woman makes a salad at the salad bar with fresh vegetables.

A man pauses to check products while shopping.

SCHNUCKS NEW LOOK

The recently opened Schnucks in the Lindenwood Commons provides a brand new complex, as well as an exciting atmosphere BY RISA TAKENAKA

risatakenaka97@gmail.com

• @ricericebaby143

Squeaky clean floors. Spacious aisles. Festive decorations. Walking in further into the new Schnucks, however, shoppers realize that this store is more than just a pretty face. Located on 1900 First Capitol Drive, customers are greeted by store employees standing near the entrance, dressed in black uniforms and big smiles. “There’s a hangout space, it’s much bigger, almost like a mall.” employee, senior Kaitlyn Patrylo said. Aisles are located near the back of the store, to the left of the entrance are the checkout stations, a pharmacy, and a bank kiosk. To the right of the store is a salad bar, cafe area, and a chef’s express station with freshly prepared hot food. Customer satisfaction is said to be the first priority, and it shows. Employers take time to write handwritten labels explaining their products and current deals, in the produce section, familiarizing customers with the unique selection of exotic fruit offered. “It’s new, it’s beautiful, with so many things to offer and so much variety,” Arlene Zenona said, a newly employed checker at the Express Checkout

counter. Aside from the variety of products, from readyto-grill meats, hot meals, side dishes, to basic groceries, the priority that employees stress on customer service is a defining factor for this store. The lively atmosphere created not only by the employees, but also by the diverse customers makes for a unique shopping experience. Its location in the Lindenwood University Commons allows it to be a melting pot of different cultures. Foreign exchange students attending Lindenwood often come in to shop for groceries and study. “You get to interact and talk to a lot of college kids,” Patrylo said. “I have been more involved with the college and have learned through customers about ongoing events. A lot of foreign exchange students also come to shop. It’s an exciting blend of culture.” A cafe area provides customers a place to study, hang around, or just socialize while grabbing a quick meal from the selection of pizzas, grilled meats, and sandwiches from the Chef’s Express. Local jazz bands have performed in the cafe area every weekend since its grand opening on Aug. 6. “The overall atmosphere is fun and fresh.” customer Sam Taylor said . “I love how clean and user friendly it is, I like it a lot.”

A Capitol COmpilation

A student band uses music as an outlet of expression throughout the trials of high school life

BY LAUREN PIKE

laurenpike14@gmail.com • @pike_n_ike

For seniors Hayden Jensen, Paul Rieger, and Devin Hoffman, music has been ingrained into their lives from an early age. While each Paul and Hayden got their start in guitar, and Devin in drums, they have now progressed into bandom. These three, along with senior Ryan Jenson and SLU senior Nick Keesey make up the quintet, Capitol Drive, a classic, alternative, indie and mild funk influenced band. “We play a lot of alternative, a mixture of classic, and I guess sometimes funk,” Devin said, “Our jams will be funk, but I don’t know if we’re really considered a funk band, but I think we’re mostly alternative and classic rock.” While Capitol Drive plays covers, including “Take Me Out” by Franz Ferdinand and ‘Last Night” by the Strokes, the band currently has one original song, “Never Forgiven.” The song was a compilation of Hayden’s music writing and Nick’s lyrics. According to Paul, the song has a Smashing Pumpkins vibe, delving into the emotions of betrayal, anger, and spite. “It’s about giving everything to someone and they blacklist you for it,” Hayden said. Capitol Drive’s song writing process differs depending on the song, but typically begins with a riff or song lyrics, which the band electronically sends around to each other. From there, the band tests out these parts at practices to determine if the idea is worthy of becoming a song they pursue. “At first we just didn’t want to write or anything, we just kind of played Follow the link oldies,” Paul said. “Then we moved goo.gl/mr4IJX to see a into playing more new songs and also video of Capitol Drive writing a lot more and what we write is more alternative.” The idea for Capitol Drive formed three years ago, when Paul and Devin met through football at FHN. During a gym class, the boys began talking about the instruments that they played, leading to a decision to form a band. About three weeks later, Hayden joined the band, followed by Nick, and two months ago, Ryan became a member. The band is now comprised of Devin on drums, Hayden and Paul on guitar, Nick

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Nick Keesey, Hayden Jensen, Paul Reiger, and Devin Hoffman pose with their guitars and drumsticks. They formed their band freshman year. (mckenzie shea)

on bass and Ryan on lead vocals. “We really started off kind of sloppy playing and not really caring, just trying to get a feel for each other and stuff like that,” Hayden said. “Now we’re a really solid unit. We really know how to convey things to each other and what we want sounds to be like. I’d just say our sound got tighter as a unit.” With gigging season starting off, it’s the start of a busy time for Capitol Drive and the band looks forward to playing more frequently. The band has played several gigs at venues across St. Louis, such as Fubar, Pops, Sky Music Lounge and even Busch Stadium. While Capitol Drive hasn’t recorded anything in studio yet, they have goals to release an EP by the end of the year. Hayden is also in the process of building a recording studio in his house, which would help the band accomplish their goal/ “The best thing about being in a band is just having fun,” Paul said. “I mean, music is fun for everybody, and playing it for people is just more fun.”

@autumn_todd Autumn Todd, 11

@stcharlespilot Chase Meyer, 110

TEACHER SPOTLIGHT: MICHAEL LEISTNER

After being diagnosed with diabetes in 1994, this FHN teacher found a passion for biking

BY MICHAL BASFORD michal.basfore13@gmail.com

Art teacher Michael Leistner rides his bike in order to aid with his diabetes. Usually, he tries to ride to school at least once a week and often rides at local parks. “You’re outside,” Leistner said. “You notice things like smell and notice more things in the world than when I drive my car.” Leistner typically rides alone almost exclusively on the road, but sometimes takes his two-year-old twins with him around the Creve Coeur Lake trail. To do this, he hooks up a bike trailer, so they can ride with him around the park. “They take up all my time,” Leistner said. “I rarely get the chance to ride my bike anymore.” In 1994, Leistner was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes and decided to make more healthy choices. Type 1 diabetes occurs when the body is unable to produce insulin, a hormone needed to convert sugar to energy. For people with this type of diabetes, it’s important to pay close attention to the amount of sugar and carbohydrates they consume.

“Exercise could cause low blood sugar,” School Nurse Brooke Magilligan said. “They have to eat before and be careful what they do before exercising.” Around the same time of Leistner’s diagnosis, FHN had a program running encouraging daily fitness called 30 Days of Fitness. As part of the event, he rode his bike to school once a week. “Exercise is very important for controlling your diabetes,” Leistner said. “I decided I would ride my bike to school during the 30 Days of Fitness. What happened was I really enjoyed riding my bike to school, so that’s when I started doing it.” Even though Leistner finds it difficult to ride to school once a week, he works through tiredness to benefit his health. Through biking, Leistner has become more receptive to his environment and more dedicated to his fitness. “Of course it’s fun, and you get to wear cool clothes,” Leistner said. “For the gearhead in me, I get to fix up my bike. As far as the sport of bike racing goes, it’s exciting. I think it’s the most beautiful sport in the world.”

@loveebug1010 Lovely Hall, 12

@spencerschab Spencer Schab, 11

FHNTODAY.COM PAGE BY MEGAN GRANNENEMANN

10.08.14

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a lesson on Halloween As Halloween approaches there are many options in the area that can make a bland Halloween better than just a night of cheesy scary movies

BY EMMA PURSLEY

Emma1996ecp@gmail.com

COSTUMES 1

Spirit store- You may have noticed that about once a year a store with some sort of ghost on the sign pops up around October and then disappears again after Halloween. You’re not going crazy, you’ve just seen the Spirit store, which sells Halloween costumes, and decorations for all ages.. The store is usually only opened around Halloween, but is a good place to go when looking for a large variety of costumes.

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Easy Costumes- As teenagers we become increasingly lazy, but sometimes we go out to a party or trick-or-treating and we need an easy costume. There are loads of ideas online on easy costumes such as “The Nerd” or “The Cereal Killer”. A person can become a nerd in just a few simple steps, pair on a pair of glasses, some suspenders and a button down shirt to complete the transformation.

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Haunted Houses

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The Variety House- Children walk through the neighborhood on Halloween with one goal in mind: candy. However, as you grow up the novelty of candy becomes less appealing, but worry not. Most neighborhoods have a house or two that instead of providing candy, hosts some sort of block party for the neighborhood, usually including hot dogs and hamburgers.

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The Darkness- The Darkness is located in Soulard and is rated as America’s best haunted house. The Darkness spends as much as $1 million every year in renovations, and now includes three separate venues, Darkness Haunted House, Terror Visions 3D Haunted House and the Monster Museum.

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Halloween puppy chow- Puppy chow is typically a mixture of peanut butter, chex cereal, chocolate, and powdered sugar. Adding candy corn not only gives the dish a fresh and festive new look, but the candy corn adds a taste that people aren’t accustomed to. Butterbeer- Most people recognize butterbeer from Harry Potter, but it is not a recipe exclusive to the world of witches and wizards. Using only a few ingredients, such as cream soda, sugar, vanilla, and heavy cream, it is possible to recreate butterbeer for a Halloween treat.

Creepy World- Creepyworld is a string of 12 haunted houses in one location including Supermax Riot at Rikers which includes a maze of barbed wire and creates the feeling of being in the middle of a prison riot. “I like how long it is. I would suggest t for someone’s first time, it’ll really scare them,” senior Brenna Clementz said.

Six Flags- Fright Fest is an event that Six Flags puts on every year, which includes mazes, Coasters in the Dark, and Trick or Trance Hypnosis. “It was really cool to see all the decorations around and give it a creepy vibe but it was also fun at the same time,” sophomore Sean Rhomberg said.

Pin It! If you’re looking for some ideas, check out our Halloween Pinterest boards at goo.gl/6TqjfR

The Art of Cosplay Senior Marissa Hume makes an assortment of cosplay using recycled material BY PRISCILLA JOEL pjchristo16@gmail.com • JCPjchristo

Senior Marissa Hume spends almost all of her free time making a wide variety of props and costumes known as cosplay. She begins a project when she sees something in books or on TV that interests her. “I accidentally started doing it,” Marissa said. “I looked at some people online, and realized it was just really fun.” Cosplay, short for costume play, is when people make costumes based on movies, books, and films and dress-up in them. Marissa has been working on cosplay for the past two years, and so far, her favorite prop she’s made is a Captain America shield. “They’re usually like, really well put together,” senior Sarah Rutherford said. “Like, she knows what she’s doing. I mean, her props are just perfect. She knows what to do.” She has made a broad range of cosplay, including armor, weapons, and fangs. Marissa’s most recent project was a giant volcano made out of cardboard, papier-mâché and chicken wire that was used as a decoration for Homecoming. “I ended up in Wilkens homeroom one day and they were struggling for ideas,” Marissa said. “I could overhear them and some of the stuff they were saying, and I was like ‘Oh that’s easy to do. I can do this.’” Marissa plans out how she’s going to make the prop or costume and gathers her materials. Because many of her family members are mechanics, she often finds materials she can use lying around her house, and if she needs more equipment, she visits junkyards. “She’s very talented in how she makes her cosplay,” senior Miranda Nixon said. “I think she’s just really good at it.” Marissa also belongs to a community of people who make cosplay. They have gatherings every month where they display their props and costumes for each other. “It’s the only time [when making cosplay] I actually feel accomplished with anything,” Marissa said. “And it’s something that not everybody else can do.”

Senior Marissa Hume works to assemble the volcano she helped make for Homecoming. StuCo members had her create the volcano as a prop for the Fire and Frost Homecoming theme. The Homecoming dance was held on Sept. 27 in the large gym. (ashleigh jenkins)

WATKINS SAVES UP FOR NEW KAWASAKI NINJA MOTORCYCLE A student purchases her first motorcycle, named Nate, by using money she saved up over the summer BY JOE LULEY joesluley@gmail.com

Since the start of this school year, senior Marissa Watkins has driven to school on a motorcycle known as the Kawasaki Ninja. The black and yellow Ninja is a 2012 model that Marissa purchased from Craigslist during June of this year. She Follow the link has been riding it ever since she purchased it. goo.gl/vC0eII to see a video of Marissa and her “She’s always been the motorcycle. adventurous type, ” Marissa’s father Jimmy Watkins said. “So far, she’s been pretty happy with her choice.“ Inspired by her father, Marissa began to save her money to buy a motorcycle. It took her roughly three months to finally save up the $3000 needed to purchase the

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motorcycle. Much of the money she used to purchase the motorcycle was earned from a small part time job as a lifeguard for Bi-State Pool And Spa. “She had spent 30 to 40 hours a week saving up the money,” Jimmy said. “After about three months she had saved enough to get her own.” While she was saving money for a motorcycle, Marissa and her dad set out on Craigslist to find the right bike, keeping clear of any fake or suspicious sellers. Finally, within the month of June, they had found a potential seller in Ballwin. “There were two bikes, one was a grey one and one was the ninja,” Marissa said. “The grey one was less expensive, but the yellow one was a lot faster.” In the end, Marissa’s need for speed inspired her to get the yellow Kawasaki Ninja motorcycle. Since she bought the motorcycle she’s been driving it whenever she gets the chance. “You get to feel the wind roll over you, and whenever you take a turn on the road, it’s just so smooth,” Marissa said.

FHNTODAY.COM PAGE BY MEGAN GRANNEMANN

10.08.14

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10 FALLTASTIC PLACES to visit

Local unique places in St. Charles that are worth checking out during Fall Break OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

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Laumeier Sculpture Park is located near I-270 and I-44, it’s roughly 20 minutes away from the Arch. The park features many unique sculptures to explore on it’s grounds, an indoor museum, live performances, and educational programs.

LIVE MUSIC

ENTERTAINMENT

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Klondike Park is past Defiance and Matson. Take highway 94 south for 14 miles to get there. This park is 250 acres full of scenery to admire. There’s also more than 4 miles of trails and a fishing lake and a lookout bluff with views of the Missouri River Valley.

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SHOPPING

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The Ready Room is a live music venue located off Manchester Ave. in St. Louis. Some upcoming appearances to watch for are Charlie XCX Oct. 14, The Wonder Years Oct. 25, and Mayday Parade Nov. 10.

Blank Space is a place off Cherokee Street in St. Louis that hosts various events. As the name suggests, it’s a blank space waiting to be filled in with an event. Live music performances are booked here frequently.

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FHNTODAY.COM PAGE BY MEGAN GRANNEMANN

10.08.14

This year Food Trucks will be coming to Frontier Park on October 21. There’s several different venders who typically only accept cash. There’s also live entertainment such as music and street performers.

The Wentzville Flea Market is located off of West Main Street in Wentzville. This flea market has over 400 vendors. Anything from produce to antiques are sold here. There’s an indoor market as well as concession stands.

Strange Donuts is located in Maplewood. This is a unique donut store that has a flair for the uncommon. They create their own flavors while retaining some classic donuts.

VB Chocolate Bar is located off Highway N on oak street. This is a small family owned restaurant that only sells it’s own products. They have their own brew of coffee and also have dinner and lunch items on the menu.

Blue Bird Apparel is located in University City. This is a women’s boutique that carries urban, underground, and street styles of clothing. The clothing designer is also the owner of the family run business.

Swed Life is an apparel store located off Delmar Blvd in St. Louis. This store focuses on streetwear and skate gear. They hold brands like Huf Diamond, and Raised By Wolves.

GET TO KNOW SOME...

VOLLEYBALL PLAYERS

Here’s a look at some of North’s Varsity roster and their hopes and goals for the season MEGHAN MITCHELL, 11

“This season, our team has overcome some challenges, but we are headed in a positive direction. If we continue at the rate we’re going, we may be headed towards sectionals.”

Serve Receives: 115 Attacks: 138 Serves: 107

SYDNEY SALZANO, 11

“My personal goals are to be the best outside hitter on this team. I’m planning on achieving this by practicing hard and working out on my free time.”

Serve Receives: 110

Senior Christian Vasquez fights a Jaguar for control of the ball at Francis Howell North on Sep. 23. The Knights defeated the Fort Zumwalt West Panthers winning 3-1. The Knights went on to playing the Blue Jays the next week. (ravyn motsinger)

VARSITY SOCCER ON A ROLL

With the team’s recovery from a 3-5 record with a six game win streak, the Varsity Boys’ Soccer team is looking to continue to improve

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BY DANIEL BODDEN

daniel.bodden21@gmail.com

Attacks: 128 Serves: 94

TAYLOR OUSLEY, 11

“I think we have all become closer and that makes us better friends and because of that, we play better. Together, we’ve overcome nervousness, and as a result, we play better.”

Serve Receives: 7

Varsity Boys’ Soccer’s current record, as of press time, is 9-6 as a result of the team winning their past six out of seven games. The team has been working to improve their first half play because their opponents have scored first in almost every game they’ve played this season. “We’re working on putting together a full 80 minute game,” Head Coach Larry Scheller said. “In the first half, we struggle. We are working

to become faster and play with intensity for the entire 80 minutes.” The facescore FZW in Theteam ninewillhole bytomorrow Tess night’s game. The Knights played against FZWinearlier this McCorkle, second lowest score season and beat them 3-1. Outside Midfielder Drew the isGateway Baker confidentAthletic the teamConference can secure another victory tomorrow night to improve their record and move within reach of Districts.. “We’re a better team than when we played them the first time,” Baker said. “Our defense keeps up with the best teams’ offenses in the state. We are also finishing and scoring, and taking good shots.”

72%

Troy Invitational

GIRLS GOLF ADVANCES TO SECTIONALS FHN placed Third at the Troy Invitational by beating eight out of the eleven teams that participated.

Serving Points: 3 Serves: 5

ALEXIS HARRELL, 12

“I think this season is a roller coaster and we’re heading up. The team as a whole has been communicating more and because of that we’ve been doing better.”

Serve Receives: 13 Attacks: 50

Girls Golf qualified and played at districts on Sept. 28-29. Five girls qualified for sectionals. The girls who made the All-District team and placed for sectionals were Julia Kaminski, who shot a 97, Maleya Schmidt, who shot a 95, Hannah Willett, who shot a 105, and Jessica Qian, who shot a 96. Briana Schmidt, who also qualified for sectionals, sank a 25-yard chip shot that was critical to her making it to sectionals. As a team, the girls placed third overall at districts. Sectionals took place starting on Monday, Oct. 6, and concludes today. Results were not available as of press time. (brief jake chiarelli)

Serves: 18

50% GAC North Conference Tournament

FHN placed Third at the GAC North Conference Tournament by beating half of the teams present.

67% Districts

FHN placed Third at Districts by beating six out of the nine teams that were there. (infographics by zach mills)

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FHNTODAY.COM PAGE BY JOSEPH LULEY

10.08.14

3-2 The Knights record in GAC matches

On Sept. 29 Senior Kayla Ruiz swings her bat attempting to hit a pitch. The Varsity Softball team had their last home game on Sept. 29. The softball team played Pattonville High school. The Knights won the game against Pattonville 7-3. (abby temper)

SWINGing towards a better FUTURE BY JAMIE HETLAGE

jamiehetlage3251@gmail.com @jammnicole

Senior and a player for the FHN Varsity softball team, Kayla Ruiz is starting to think about her future with softball in college. At the moment, she is thinking about attending University of California, Los Angeles because of their well known sports teams They are also a Division I school. “Softball means everything to me,” Ruiz said. “ I basically give all my free time to it.” Ruiz’s motivation is to keep practicing, playing and improving her skills so one day she can become a professional softball player. She is fairly confident in gaining her dream and seeing where her skills take her. She plans to achieve her dream by strengthening

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runners get patriotic The sophomore boys of the cross country team have been bonding through sporting some new athletic shorts that may be a surprise. They wear not only short shorts, like most of the boys on the team, but they wear American flag short shorts during practices. “They’re pretty weird but cool at the same time,” sophomore Andrew Santel said. Former runner and FHN graduate Brandon Chac wore American flag shorts the year before, along with many other crazy styles. His little brother sophomore Bryan Chac thought he and the other sophomores should wear them too. “It was just a fun thing we decided to do with all the sophomores on the team,” Bryan said. “My brother always had some crazy shorts and he graduated last year, so we decided to continue the tradition.” With this new tradition the sophomores hope not only for a good season, but to also get closer as a team. This tradition is a way for them to have fun during the season ahead. From this, the team pushes forward and works together. (brief jamie hetlage)

her throwing arm, playing as hard as she can at every moment and coming through with tough plays when he team needs her. “She’s very tenacious, very aggressive, and that leads to being a good player,” senior Matt Dunn said. Kayla has been playing softball for around 12 years and has loved it ever since. She plays softball most of the year, playing in the summer for a select team, the Royals, and playing for FHN during the fall season. Kayla knew from the beginning that she wanted softball in her life for a long time and plans to continue to play the sport in the future. “I am willing to do whatever it takes,” Ruiz said.

Sophomores Nick Savala and Bryan Chac show off the patriotic shorts the sophomore Varsity Boys Cross team now wears. (ariel kirkpatrick)

GAMES WON (as of press time)

LOOKING AHEAD On Oct. 17 the Varsity football team will be playing their last game before playoffs against the Washington Bluejays at 7 p.m. at Washington High School. “Our biggest challenge when playing is our mindset,” linebacker Jarret O’Brien said. “ As long as we are strong mentally, nothing will stop us.” They are preparing both mentally and physically by watching films of the other team’s techniques and plays. The team believes they can win, especially if they beat Washington, like they did the year before. They’re hoping to get a good seed into playoffs, and play their hardest from there on out. “I believe we are going to place,” Head football Coach, Brandon Gregory said. “At this point we need to get it done or it’s not going to happen.” (brief jamie hetlage)

FHNTODAY.COM PAGE BY JOSEPH LULEY

10.08.14

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• Senior Jacob Bell prepares to swim the 100 meter backstroke in a meet against FZS. (ariel kirkpatrick)

Senior night At 8:30 p.m. on Sept. 30, the FHN Boys’ Swim team celebrated their two seniors, Sean Pirrone and Jacob Bell, during Senior Night at their last home meet against Liberty High School at the Rec-Plex. Senior Night has been going on since 1997 and has been happening ever since. Half way through the meet, the seniors walked down the bulkhead delivering a rose to their mothers, and then received a medal from Head Coach Steve Kelly to honor their participation. “I think the most rewarding thing has been realizing the impact that swimming has had on my life the last four years, whether it be the people it brought into my life or the things it taught me,” Pirrone said. (brief by lauren pike)

Nick DiMarco tackles a San Francisco 49er. DiMarco played for the Ravens during the preseason. DiMarco is the second North graduate to play in the NFL. During the preseason, DiMarco had two tackles, one sack and one assist. (baltimore ravens/phill hoffmann)

Four years later A 2010 FHN graduate looks to continue his football career with the desire to thrive at the professional level BY ANTHONY KRISTENSEN

anthony.kristensen17@gmail.com • @anthonyk17slsg

Junior Mallory Schaffrin returns the ball to a Parkway North Viking on Sept 19. (jessica allison)

ON TO DISTRICTS On Sept. 22 and 23, Varsity Girls’ Tennis won first place at this year’s GAC tournament at Holt High School. The team had multiple players achieve first place in their event, including senior Risa Takenaka and junior Yuri Takenaka. On Sept. 29 to Oct. 1 the team competed in Districts. As of press time, results are unknown. The team will compete for State on Oct. 16-18. “I’m really excited about our win, because last year we lost by a few points to Howell, but this year we won by like 20 points,” senior Rachel Mecklenburg said. (brief by michal basford)

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FHNTODAY.COM PAGE BY ANTHONY KRISTENSEN

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After graduating in 2010, Nick DiMarco has had an eventful four years since his graduation. The 22-year-old, 6-foot-2, 237-pound linebacker went to William Penn University of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA), which is just below the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division III. While at William Penn, DiMarco set the school sack record last season with 13 sacks. DiMarco had 55 tackles, three forced fumbles, two fumble recoveries and three blocked kicks during his last season for William Penn. This earned the undrafted rookie a short time with the New York Jets. However, DiMarco was later cut after rookie minicamp because the team already had enough depth at the linebacker position. After being cut by the Jets, to his surprise, DiMarco got a call from the Baltimore Ravens. During his preseason with the Ravens, Dimarco had two tackles, one sack and one assist. “It was surreal,” DiMarco said. “After I was cut by the Jets, I thought my NFL career was over.” DiMarco is the second player from FHN to go on to the NFL. The first player was Brandon Carter, who was signed as an undrafted free agent by the Minnesota Vikings after playing college football for the University of Northern Iowa as part of the NCAA Division I, which is the top division in the NCAA.

“He [DiMarco] had a good motor, he was very fast, coordinated, a hard worker,” former FHN football coach John Brune said. “[He was] extremely committed to making himself better.” DiMarco has been described by his former FHN teammate Jake Schneider as an extremely hard worker on and off the field. He has also been described as someone who never gives up on anything, and always tries to improve. “He was the most intense player I ever played with,” Schneider said. “He never gave up on a play and he had one of the best motors I’ve ever seen. Off the field, he was one of the most dedicated players. He was always in the gym trying to get better.” Currently, DiMarco is without a team after he was cut by the Ravens after the preseason. Despite this cut, DiMarco is still hopeful that he will have another chance to play in the NFL. This winter, DiMarco will decide whether he wants to continue his training as a possible backup for the Ravens or go on to a different career. If his football career doesn’t work out, DiMarco plans to become a fitness coach for the NFL or a college football team. “I’ve received interest from a few other teams, obviously I’m still on the Ravens’ radar if anyone gets hurt, so I need to stay in shape throughout the season,” DiMarco said. “This winter I’ll decide if I still want to go after it or just go into the strength and conditioning world.”

Light Sabers to Swords

Logan Grier takes on the sport of fencing fostered from his childhood love of Star Wars BY JAMIE HETLAGE

jamiehetlage3251@gmail • @jammnicole

Blue and red slicing majestically through the air. Beams of light cutting through doors, and battling the darkness in the universe. This is how junior Logan Grier viewed the world of Star Wars and light sabers. This eventually led to Logan’s entrance in the sport of fencing. Logan fences with the team called the Buckaneer Blades in Wentzville every Monday, Thursday and during the weekend for competitions. At these competitions, Logan fights in a group with around 30 other competitors, fighting against everyone in it. Based on his performance, he is ranked on his wins and losses. Depending on how Logan does, he will fight against the person either above him or below him, until he is eliminated. Fencing uses not only uses the body, but also the mind. It is a constant game of thinking and knowing of what to do next, it can be difficult, but Logan knows how to pull it off. “You have to be not one with the sword, but one with the brain,” Logan’s coach, Chris Menne said. Many people may find this an unusual sport, but Logan likes fencing not only for the swords and weaponry, but also because of the style and technique he and other people use in the sport. “I like to be powerful, not fast or swift or anything,” Logan said. “ I like to be powerful and knock the blade out of their hand.” His love for fencing started when he was little. When he was younger, he was obsessed with Star Wars and wanted to battle, using lightsabers in real life, like Luke Skywalker did. In seventh grade his parents signed him up at the Rec-Plex. He started at the beginner level and slowly moved up the line. He did stop for a little while two or three times in the seventh, eighth, and ninth grade but always came back to it. He has been fencing now for around four

Junior Logan Grier practices with his foil. Grier used to practice at the Rec-Plex but he was looking for more a challenge now he practices and competes in Wentzville. Grier plans to continue fencing in college and in his adult life. (jailan thomas)

years. “Everything as a kid was lightsabers and then when we saw that the RecPlex offered fencing, you know, we showed him and he got really excited,” Logan’s mom, Jessica Grier said. “I guess they’re connected but it wasn’t like he was trying to fence, he was trying to be Luke.” Logan plans to fence play in college and possibly even professionally one day. He hasn’t really looked at many colleges, but Westminster College is on his radar. It can be hard to find a college with fencing, because many do not offer this sport. “As long as he wants to fence, he will do nothing but improve,” Menne said.

THE GREAT AND GROWING GOONIES The Goonies are a spirited student fanbase, hoping to add crowd engagement at games BY ALEX ARGER

alexarger2@gmail.com• @lARG3Rthanlife

At almost every basketball and football game, the crazy, themed outfits of the FHN Goonies, the “Official Unofficial Cheerleaders,” will catch anyone’s eye. Seniors Mike Butterfield, Sam Ritchie, and a few other leading Goonies choose Follow the link a theme, like “America,” for each game http://goo.gl/CvmkNh to see a video of the located close to FHN, and spread the Goonies in action. word to all the fans. With the new dress code rules, the “cheerleaders” aren’t allowed to wear certain things, like showing their painted stomachs or wearing morphsuits at games. “The dress code rules definitely make themes harder,” Sam said. “We’ll have to maybe design T-shirts instead of

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Senior Sam Ritchie cheers at the first Varsity Football game against Vianney. (ashleigh jenkins)

painting our chests.” The group has gained a lot of attention throughout the years due to its growing amount of members. By cheering and doing their signature ‘roller coaster’ in the fan section, the Goonies have earned recognition from the FHN community. The faculty appreciates the students’ drive to cheer on their teams. “I think the Goonies are a positive thing,” Activities Director Mike Janes said. “To have our own students and their peers cheer them on is always exciting for them.” The group hopes to gain more supporters to improve crowd involvement at games this year. “Anybody can be a Goonie,” Mike said. “Everybody is a Goonie if they come to the games.”

FHNTODAY.COM PAGE BY ANTHONY KRISTENSEN

10.08.14

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PLAY WITH PRIDE

Proud supporter of

The Francis Howell North Knights! Steve Hall, CLTC®, FICF Financial Associate 816 South Main Street Saint Charles, MO 63301 636-724-9700

For additional important information, visit Thrivent.com/disclosures.

Appleton, Wisconsin • Minneapolis, Minnesota Thrivent.com • 800-847-4836 25635SP R3-14

STUDENT TAKE Students weigh in on FHSD’s proposal to possibly move to one Parent Teacher conference a year “My parents never really go to Parent Teacher conferences. Honestly, I don’t think it’s that big of a deal. They went when I was younger. I don’t understand why they would have to meet with someone twice.” (photo illustration by sammie savala)

Jesse George, 10 “My parents usually only go to one anyway, so I think it’s fine. I don’t think it’s that important since they can check your grades online and see what’s missing.”

Breanna Jefferies, 9 “I think that students can handle a lot of situations without the help of their parents unless the situation is severe. I feel like they don’t really do anything.”

Kaitlyn Patrylo, 12 “I don’t know how much the parents benefit it. They get to talk to the teachers that’s the upside.”

• • • • • • •

GREEN SMOOTHIE RECIPE

1 handful kale 1 cup ice 1 whole onion (peeled) 3.14 bananas (not peeled) 1 avocado 2 tablespoons of yogurt Blend and enjoy!

Hail to kale Ode to green smoothies: the best thing since sliced bread BY ALEX BOHNERT abohnert262gmail.com

On the basis of trying to better myself, I tried to eat healthier. With some success at this, I decided to go out on a limb and try a new nourishing trend in the fitness field: green smoothies. Nothing seems more appetizing to me than a tall glass of cold, thick, green, slush. This drink is often a popular meal replacer and could be described as a salad blended into oblivion with a banana or other fruit. I don’t limit myself by only adding leafy greens to my recipes. I blend in everything except the kitchen sink: peas, carrots, celery, a whole onion, broccoli, one can not go wrong. Green smoothies are delicious and nutritious because they contain mashed vegetables and fruits, like baby food for adults. Forget making an extravagant breakfast. This smoothie, unlike other breakfast foods such as eggs, bacon and toast won’t leave me hungry three and a half minutes later. Even a big bowl of cereal leaves me hungry minutes later, while this eight ounce glass leaves me bloated to the point where I almost

can’t walk. If I am feeling especially adventurous I will add in a whole carton of raw eggs, shell and all, to my smoothie for extra protein. Instead of my family’s huge “traditional” Thanksgiving dinner, I have been debating asking my parents to replace the turkey and mashed potatoes for a more satisfying and healthy choice: enough green smoothies to go around. Also, now that fall is here, that means football games and bonfires. Bring your own blender to your next tailgate. Instead of bratwurst or buffalo chicken dip try swapping these unhealthy foods for a green smoothie. Nothing brings friends closer together than homemade blended comfort food. This life changing trend leaves my stomach super full until dinner time, is better than any secret recipe passed down in your family for generations and is super easy to make. I just have to remember to check between my teeth for kale after I finish. Fads are great and should always be followed no matter the circumstances.

Marty Aubuchon, 12

Food review: a trip to tucano’s

“Parent teacher conferences are okay because teachers can tell parents stuff they need to know.”

Chase Meyer visits the unique Brazilian charrasco on the Streets of St. Charles

BY CHASE MEYER

Lucas Kehoe,11 “My grandparents never come to the fall one. They think it’s a little stressful everyone being in the gym and crowding around one teacher.”

Daycia Cameron, 11

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chase.kscm@att.net

Pulling into the fairly new Streets of Saint Charles development, the first place I notice is Tucanos. Opened last year, this Brazilian restaurant won’t fail to impress the first-time visitor nor the regular customer. Upon walking in, I’m greeted not only by friendly hostesses, but an atmosphere perfect for relaxing and spending time with those who came with me. As I’m shown the way to my table, servers zip past me carrying freshly cooked meat, grilled fruit and seafood. I saw my waitress only a couple of times. She brought me a Coca-Cola and a small pitcher to refill it. The meat service

FHNTODAY.COM PAGE BY ALEX BOHNERT

10.08.14

is quite clever; using a small cylinder called the “Tucanos Cue”, painted green on one side and red on the other, this signals the servers to come with their platters full of deliciously prepared courses. I take my plate, head up to the Salad Festival, a buffet full of soups, different types of rolls and sweets--and, of course, salad. Filling my plate with Brazilian cheese bread, mashed potatoes and a cup of beef stroganoff, I head back to my table. Turning my cue over, a meat server arrives within seconds with cooked prime rib. Another comes over with grilled pineapple. Next? He has teriyaki beef. Even for the high price, I suggest paying Tucanos a visit. It was well worth my time, and I will continue to go back.

North star take:

The R WORD ON BEHALF OF THE EDITORIAL STAFF yourfhn@fhntoday.com • @FHNtoday

Last month at Neshaminy High School in Pennsylvania, the newspaper adviser was suspended, without pay, for two days. The newspaper editor-in-chief was suspended from her duties for the rest of the month. The District also docked the staff’s funds by $1,200. You’d think they must have done something wrong, but you’d be mistaken. The staff is in a year-long clash with the administration over the editors’ banning of the word “Redskins,” the school’s mascot, in its newspaper. The administration insists that they use the word Redskins, which the editors have deemed racially offensive. It’s true that because of the Hazelwood v. Kuhlmeier case, high school newspapers can be subject to censorship in some situations. However, there is no way forcing a student newspaper to acknowledge a mascot deemed racially offensive is a justifiable reason to become entangled in decisions that should be left to editors. This isn’t about the Redskins. It’s not about two days or $1,200. It’s not even about a high school in Pennsylvania. This is about what happens when students are taught to get in line and shut their mouths. It’s about what happens when these students graduate. We’ll get a generation of crowd followers who don’t fight to change what they believe is wrong. People will hear the term ‘freedom of the press,’ but it will be four hollow words. They’ll believe they can’t really change anything. Americans should be outraged. People should be desperate to fix this. The number one lesson about what we stand for as a country is being discounted. Hundreds of silent schools stand behind this one school whose battle is being fought publicly. It’s an epidemic of injustice and people need to care. We work in a school that enjoys full protection of student press rights and freedoms. Newspapers are released with no prior review from administrators. Web content is posted without censorship. We have the privilege of spending every day giving consideration to what students need to know rather than what the District

The North Star Editorial Board commends the resolve shown by student journalists at Neshaminy High School

will allow them to know. Believe it or not, the world still turns, and we’re better for it. We learn the importance of responsible coverage, rather than trying to see how many buttons we push. We operate with the same standards as professional journalists, and accept the same accountability for our actions. We get a true sense of the duties tasked to journalists and never risk our standing with the administration because of our relationship of trust. We’re not soft on the issues; we’ve still covered topics ranging from marijuana to the education crisis to drinking and driving in the past year and sparked discussions about real issues that matter to our audience. Because we are entrusted with the task of producing accurate stories, we’ve treated these issues with scrutiny and haven’t had any incidents after content was released. Censorship is too often viewed as an absolute; something that can’t be changed and that students don’t have control over. That is not the case. For Neshaminy, for the nation and for our future, we have to stand up. We can’t stand by while administrators threaten student publications. Such bullying and petty attempts to force students to change their opinions sound like elementary school playground quarrels, and not something that should be said by high school administrators. We stand with Neshaminy. The only way for freedom to exist is to fight for it. The second that people begin turning their backs on these situations and start dismissing them as just one school, just one word, or just one principal is the second we give away our rights. We believe students are more than capable of making their own decisions and we believe in the power of high school students bringing change to their schools. We live in a country where we don’t have to keep our mouths shut. We are the future of the press and this nation, and we won’t be silenced.

Editor in Chief: Daniel Bodden Managing Editor: Lauren Pike Business Manager: Aly Jenkins Business: Brandon Macias Austin Ferguson Team Editors: Emma Pursley Alexis Tainter Design Editors: Maggie Torbeck Nick Wyer Copy Editors: Priscilla Joel Lexi Wilkinson General Staff: Alex Arger Kyleigh Kristensen Michal Basford Anthony Kristensen Alex Bohnert Zoe Lawson Alyssa Doty Joe Luley Mia Elliott Erika Paar Sarai Esparza Breanna Relleke Megan Grannemann Sami Schmid Garret Griffin Alex Shannon Jamie Hetlage Bennett Smallwood Risa Takenaka Editor in Chief of Photography: Ashleigh Jenkins Photo Editors: Editor of Photography: Sammie Savala Yearbook Editor of Photography: Ariel Kirkpatrick Web Editor of Photography: McKenzie Shea Photographers: Jessica Allison Lauren Price Yasmeen Belakhoua Alyssa Savage Jessie Define Ashton Stegman Amanda Eckhard Abby Temper Madi Graves Jailan Thomas Jordan Mertens Ravyn Winter Katie Worsham

FHNTODAY STAFF Editor In Chief of Digital Media: Jake Chiarelli FHNgameday Editor: Alex Weinstock Video Editor: Sam Skaggs Web Staff: Ryan Jensen Tristan Chenoweth Alex Connell Jacob Lintner Lucy Covington Chase Meyer Zach Mills Video Staff: Stone Birkner Kyle Cuppy Brayton Larson Ben Moxley Adam Quigley Autumn Todd Advisers: Jordyn Klackner Aaron Manfull

FHNTODAY.COM PAGE BY ALEX BOHNERT

10.08.14

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