Mini Murph 2nd-Period 2018

Murph MINI

2018-2019 2ND PERIOD JOURNALISM

Scooter’s vs. Starbucks Holiday edition PHOTO PROVIDED BY SCOOTER’S

For many LHS students, coffee is a necessity when it comes to getting through the school day. Popular coffee shops in Sioux Falls include Scooter’s and Starbucks, both of which have added a number of holiday drinks to their menus that will be available in the upcoming winter months.

At Starbucks, these drinks are the Caramel Brulée Latte, Peppermint Mocha and Toasted White Chocolate Mocha. Scooter’s now sells a Peppermint Mocha, Gingerbread Caramelicious and a Sugar Cookie Latte.

Additionally, both stores are continuing to offer a Pumpkin Spice Latte.

Starbucks kicked off its holiday season on Nov. 2 by offering a free, reusable red cup to anyone who purchased a holiday drink. It was a great strategy for drawing in customers to try their new drinks who would not normally buy one. As tempting as this offer may seem, the red cups were not offered at every Starbucks location, and even the the stores that offered them ran out of cups by the end of the day.

Starbucks always get a lot of attention for its holiday cups, and there have even been a number of controversies

by Avery Blackman

PHOTO PROVIDED BY STARBUCKS

regarding their designs over the past few years. This year, however, Starbucks played it safe by offering four different cups, all a combination of red, white or green, with simplistic designs.

This holiday season, Scooter’s only has one design of holiday cups. They are light-blue with a scene of people doing many different holiday activities, such as sledding, sharing a coffee and decorating a Christmas tree.

Even though Starbucks has more variety when it comes to their festive cup designs than Scooter’s, they remain close competitors when it comes to the actual flavor, quality and taste of their holiday drinks.

The best way to compare these stores is by putting the only drink flavor they share, which is the Peppermint Mocha, headto-head. “[The Scooter’s Peppermint Mocha] doesn’t taste like peppermint at all, it just tastes like a regular mocha,” said sophomore Ana Simeonova.

“The Starbucks one has a much stronger peppermint flavor.”

“I’m not much of a coffee drinker but I really like the Starbucks Peppermint Mocha,” said junior Brita Quello. “I don’t like the one from Scooter’s because it has too strong of a

coffee flavor.”

The general consensus for Scooter’s drinks is that they have a much stronger flavor of espresso, which is definitely an acquired taste that some people appreciate and others find too bitter. The lack of sweet, Christmas-y flavor in Scooter’s holiday drinks was noticeable and very disappointing to sophomore Johana Brower, who expected unique and exciting flavors when she tried all three of these drinks.

“None of [the Scooter’s holiday drinks] were very good,” said Brower. “The flavors were bland and not very festive. I was not impressed.”

While Starbucks may

have edged out Scooter’s when it comes to the flavor and originality, the price of a grande (medium) Starbucks holiday drink is relatively high, being $4.95. Scooter’s price for a medium holiday drink is slightly lower, at $4.75. That being said, the extra 20 cents is beneficial for a stronger, sweeter flavor.

“I love to go to Starbucks in the winter because of the way they bring Christmas into their drinks,” said sophomore Ree Baireddy. “I don’t mind the extra cost since I’m getting such a good product.”

With its diversity in both the cup designs and flavors of drinks, Starbucks is the clear winner for better holiday

Starbucks: 1. Caramel Brulée Latte 2. Toasted White Chocolate Mocha 3. Peppermint Mocha

drinks this season.

“To me, Scooter’s doesn’t seem to have such a diverse holiday selection like Starbucks does,” said Baireddy. “If I want a delicious holiday drink, I’m going to Starbucks.”

Scooter’s: 1. Sugar Cookie Latte 2. Gingerbread Caramelicious 3. Peppermint Mocha

First world problems

Kat Steffen You know that gut punching feeling, when life feels like it is falling apart.. That heart wrenching moment when the girl sitting beside you in class asks to borrow your ponytail holder, but it’s your last hair elastic, but you cannot say no because you know that she saw it? Life can just be so difficult.

We live in 21st century America and often take things for granted. All of us are guilty of letting a dumb and petty first world problem ruin our day.

We all know how easy we have it compared to most of the world. But, that does not change the fact that some kid stole my unassigned assigned seat last period!

Here are some silly and relatable first world problems: Staying up late trying to finish your homework, but the next day in class your teacher moves the deadline back a day and you were up all-night for no reason!

Not realizing there is a stain on your clothes until you get to school.

Losing a Snapchat streak that is over 50 days!.

Not being able to go to formal because the original date was postponed and you bought tickets to go to a by

April Meyer

Photo by Kat Steffen

Chloe Harbough annoying classmates with her eating

Travis Scott concert that happens to be on the new date.

Having to wipe butter off of a knife.

When your hair elastic is to loose but it’s too tight if you wrap it around again.

When people eat extremely loud food in class.

Falling asleep while watching a movie in a Cinemark theater.

When people breath obnoxiously loud.

People who are on their phones during movies.

When you are wearing a black shirt and pants but they are slightly different shades of black.

When you order a large and but end up with a small.

When you wear Birkenstocks to school but it unexpectedly snows, so now you have to walk through the cold and wet snow in sandals.

When you order a latte with soy milk because you are lactose intolerant but you get one with regular milk.

Photo by Kat Steffen

Somer Anderson fed up with Harbough’s snack time Photo by kat steffen

April Meyer

In all seriousness, we need to learn to laugh and live a little. These are all very insignificant things that we often let ruin our days. There are only 365 days in a year, and we could all find some small first world problem to be upset about every day. Why would you live your life like that? For every inconvenient thing that happens to us we have so many blessings. Next time someone steals your parking spot, think of everything that you are grateful for.

photo by kat steffen

How LHS gets DOWN

by Somer Anderson

MRS. KROEZE

Nae Nae

THE FOLKS

DAB

The nae nae is the dance that followed the whip. It came from the same place and came on the uprise the same way. It came from the song “Watch me whip” by Silento that went viral and eventually was followed with a music video that taught the world how to do these dances. Many star athletes including NBA and NFL players included the nae nae in there celebration dances that helped the dance start its uprise.

The dance “hit the folks” originated from two kids living in Atlanta, Georgia.

They often posted videos them dancing to rap music on Instagram, and introduced a dance they made up called, “hit dem folks.” After they went viral with the dance, they were invited to tour with Rae Sremmurd, Yo Gotti, and Drake. Dancing on tour with these artists put the dance at even more of a rave. When pro football player, Odell Beckham Jr. performed this dance as a touchdown celebration; the dance had officially swept the entire world.

The dab started from cannabis dabbers, and dancers, in Atlanta, Georgia. After posting a video of them ‘dabbing’ online, the Panthers quarterback saw it, and put it into his touchdown celebration dance, where it became a household name. The dab was put into songs, music videos, and celebrities posted videos of them doing it as well. The dab took over the dance world, and it wont ever be forgotten.

MR. GRIMM

WHIP

THE QUAN

This whip is a dance move that swept the whole world. It came from the song “Watch me whip” by Silento that went viral and eventually was followed with a music video that taught the world how to do these dances. Many star athletes including NBA and NFL players included the whip in there celebration dances that helped the dance start its uprise.

This dance came from the song “hit the quan” by @Iheartmemphis.

The music video was put into the top 100 hits and soon before that people were mimicking the dance and posting it all over their social media with their friends. A song that was often played at parties and danced to become one of the nations biggest dance hits.

PHOTOS BY SOMER ANDERSON

MILLY ROCK

The milly rock was one of 2018s biggest craze dance moves. It is so simple, and graceful, but can go to the beat of any song. It is extremely simple and once you have it down, you can impress anyone with it. This song came from the hip-hop and rap song “Magnolia” by 2 Milly.

“The dance actually came before the song, we just put some music to it years later and it blew up.” The milly rock became a craze all over the nation, and it hasn’t died out yet.

PHOTO PROVIDED BY ABC

by Julia Ivey

The popular medical drama that is slowly dying

‘Grey’s Anatomy’:

“You have to go back to the beginning to understand the end.”

-Teddy Altman “Grey’s Anatomy” has been around for nearly 15 years, and while it started out as one of the greatest dramas to exist, it has only gone downhill from there.

The popular medical drama started out with five main interns, and only two of them remain on the show. Even the strongest couples did not find a way to stay together, and either died, moved away or got a divorce. When comparing “Grey’s Anatomy” to any other medical drama, such as “The Resident” or “The Good Doctor,” the medical cases are almost identical.

“Grey’s Anatomy” began with five interns: George O’Malley (T. R. Knight), Isobel “Izzie” Stevens (Katherine Heigl), Cristina Yang (Sandra Oh), Alex Karev (Justin Chambers) and Meredith Grey (Ellen Pompeo). Grey and Karev are the only two of these beloved characters who still star on the show. “Grey’s Anatomy” just is not the same without Yang’s arrogant and cocky comments or Stevens’ soft personality.

One of the main parts of the drama is the romance and love lives of each character.

Waiting to see if two characters ended up together was always one of the most stressful, yet interesting components in the show. But after most of the main characters left, so did their relationships. From the very first episode, Meredith and Derek were always meant to be

together. But after Derek’s death in season 11, their relationship had to come to an end. Why they did not end the show there is a mystery to everyone, but it might have been a better option. This way Meredith and Derek could still end up together, and the producers would not have to drag out the show with a predictable plot and bring down its reputation with it.

Some of the newer medical shows, such as “The Good Doctor” or “The Resident,” contain lots of similarities to “Grey’s Anatomy.” The medical cases in each episode are just slightly altered from a similar case in a different series.

Most of the shows also contain complicated love triangles as well, just like “Grey’s Anatomy.” However that does not mean the overall plot of each show is unoriginal. “The Resident” offers a new perspective into a hospital’s corrupt governing system, and “The Good Doctor” focuses more on a brilliant doctor with autism.

The well-known show “Grey’s Anatomy” has slowly deteriorated in quality over the years, and is no longer worth clearing Thursday nights to fit it in. The plot is predictable, and nothing good ever seems to last. If there is nothing else on, then “Grey’s Anatomy” is not a terrible option, but it no longer brings the anticipation it once brought.

by Lilli Eppinga

Mom Jeans: The popular trend from the early 90s has found its way back into the loop of modern fashion. The trendy jeans are high waisted, loose around the ankles and usually have large rips throughout the pant legs.

Colorful Sunglasses: It is a simple fact that sunglasses have been around forever, however this year they came back better than ever with different colorful shapes and sizes. The sunglasses trend of 2017, the clout glasses, evolved into a mature and fashionable look during 2018.

Scrunchies: By far this hair accessory has made the biggest reappearance in history. I assure you almost every girl is wearing this soft, colorful masterpiece on their wrist this year.

It is used as a ponytail holder, but the elastic is covered in bunched fabric of all types.

Plaid Skirt: Once the jean skirt had passed its course, the humble plaid skirt swooped in to take its place. The chic look is great with dark sheer tights underneath and Doc Martens to achieve the perfect outfit.

Doc Martens: The old school boots have certainly emerged this year to compliment the best outfits. Their steampunk vibe is a high top boot with thick heels and is sure to be muted by a chic outfit.

PHOTOS PROVIDED BY URBAN OUTFITTERS AND PACSUN

PERHAPS THE SWEETEST CRAZY LADY THERE IS

CONOVER:

by Caleb Miller

It seems like every LHS student at some point in their high school career has stopped by Monica Conover’s classroom and listened to the flamboyant stories she has stored in her lifetime of memories.

But, what else is there to the Spanish teacher than her literature tests and vocabulary lessons?

Conover was born and raised in Mexico City. She met her husband there and has since spent the last 16 years within the U.S. She graduated from the National School of Anthropology and History in 1994 and worked in the research department of the Mexican General National Archives. In 2016, she was hired to work at

LHS. Her favorite part of the job is found in her students.

“Right now I can see that a few of my students are in AP Spanish and they stop by every day to see me and it makes me so happy,” said Conover.

But along with the teaching position and over 100 students that she has to manage, not to mention those she still is in contact with from years past, Conover wonders how well she can keep herself organized and on top of everything.

“I was organized when I worked in the archives but right now it’s like ‘oh my gosh.’ I have papers, and papers and piles of papers

every day, and I don’t have time. I try to organize my time but I need more hours every day,” said Conover.

Seeing that it has become somewhat of a problem, Conover has begun to look for better solutions. She is hoping that maybe the key to all might be found in the amount of time.

“I need to work on time and everything, and then I need to clean and put away all the papers I need or don’t need,” said Conover.

Although, her disorganization could be a two-way street. Because even though she might not be on top of everything all of the time, there are some cases where it might come to the students to be better

about handing work in earlier.

“Sometimes my students give me things last minute, so that might be another reason for why I’m disorganized,” said Conover.

Even through the piles of essays, tests and assignments that Conover deals with on a daily basis, she still manages to make time for her students that know her to be one of the sweetest teachers of LHS. “And if they say I’m that disorganized, I say, ‘you need to see my closet’ because there I have everything organized,” said Conover.

PHOTOS BY CALEB MILLER

A millennial debate:

vs. by

Makayla Mofle

Sp tify

Music has become a part of everyday life, from listening to it in the car during a commute to school or work or walking the halls of LHS a minute before one of the bells ring.

Two popular platforms for music among many people are Spotify and Apple Music but which is superior?

When it comes to the pricing of Apple Music and Spotify there is not much difference between the two. Spotify has a three-month trial costing $0.99 and Apple Music has a free three-month trial which is the only price difference between the two. For both platforms, students pay $4.99 a month with a verification of higher education. A single person pays $9.99 a month and a family of six people or less pays $14.99 a month.

Spotify was launched in October of 2008 and started out as a free app but later released its paid version. The difference between the two is that the paid version has no ads and users are able to play whatever song you want whenever but both options of paid or nonpaid are available. Spotify also creates a new playlist for users based on what songs and artist the user recently have listened to and is a great feature to have for someone seeking new music.

Apple Music was launched much later in June of 2015 and has only ever been a paid app. Apple Music allows users to download and listen to any song on iTunes choosing from over 45 million songs. Unlike Spotify, Apple Music does not have a nonpaid version and you are only able to use it if you have a paid membership.

The two platforms have just about everything in common including being able to share and look at music your friends are listening to. Both platforms are accessible through any device as long as it has an App Store and pricing is the same except for the three-month trial. The one feature that differs Spotify from Apple Music is that Spotify has a nonpaid version and a paid version and Apple Music only has a paid version.

In the end, Spotify and Apple Music have very comparable features and it is up to the user’s likings of the different layouts and designs of each to decide which they like better and if they are willing to pay or not.

MOST POPULAR G Chloe Brown

It is Christmas time, and kids all over are making their lists and their parents are scrambling to find the best gifts. The most popular gifts this year include clothing, electronics, books, games etc. After surveying a few students from LHS, I found that most of them want either clothing, electronics or gift cards/money. by

PHOTO BY CHLOE BROWN

The Apple Watch recently came out with the Series 4 and teenagers and adults are all over them. These high tech devices can do much more than just tell time. The watches track workouts, contact emergency services if it detects that the user is immobile after a fall, receives calls and messages and allows people to go for a swim (It is waterproof.)

“The Apple Watch Series 4 starts at $399 for the GPS-only version and $499 for the cellular option,” said Gizmodo.com.

Hydro Flask started in 2009, but just recently became increasingly popular. They are insulated water bottles and the customer can customize it to be unique with seven sizes, two lid types, four parts and 14 colors. The water bottles are popular for their bright colors and ability to keep drinks cold.

“We don’t accept ‘lukewarm’,” said Hydroflask.com.

The 32 oz. wide mouth starts at $39.95 with the standard lid. The price varies depending on size and accessories. Everyone can enjoy this gift because it is something someone can use every day and that one can personalize to fit what they want.

PHOTO BY PIXABAY.COM

GIFTS THIS YEAR

Shoes are high up on most teen’s Christmas lists. The kinds of shoes that they prefer varies. There are different brands, colors and styles. One of the most popular shoes is the Vans checkered slip-ons that cost $50. They are unisex so anyone can pull them off. These shoes are ‘off the wall’ and many teens will be asking for them this Christmas if they do not already have them.

PHOTO BY CHLOE BROWN

Another shoe that will be on the top of both boy’s and girl’s list is the adidas’ NMDs. They are sporty and stylish. The NMDs prices vary from shoe to shoe, but they range from about $130-$200 for adult sizes.

“This year, shoes are definitely on the top of my Christmas list,” said Alisha Schmidt. “I really want some Vans shoes because those are really in style and easy to match with outfits.”

Gift cards are always a great last resort if one cannot find a gift for someone and they are wanted by many. Gift cards give people more freedom to buy what they want. Teens like gift cards to restaurants and stores.

Teens are always going to get food and wanting to buy new clothes. Some favorite restaurant spots to get gift cards are Starbucks, McDonalds, Subway, Panda Express and Taco Bell. PacSun, American Eagle, Forever 21 and Lululemon are stores that teens are wanting gift cards to this Christmas.

Christmas is a time of giving, so if one does not know what to get for their friend, take a look back at this list for ideas because these are gifts that everyone may want.

TOP INSTAGRAMMERS

by Chloe Harbaugh

CAELYN SOMER SAMANTHA ELIZABETH TAYLOR ANDERSON HARTJE DOTY Followers: 4,316 Followers: 3,889 Followers: 3,792 Followers: 3,526 Q: When did you get Q: When did you get Q: When did you get Q: When did you Instagram?

Instagram?

Instagram?

A: 5th Grade

A: 7th grade

A: A while ago

Q: Why did you get Q: Why do you like Instagram in the first place?

Instagram?

A: Because all my

journal. I can look back at memories.

friends had it. It was a fun way to post memes.

Q: Why do you like Instagram?

A: You get to share

the happy moments, and it reflects on who you are. It is a good way to portray yourself.

Q: How do you

come up with your Instagram captions?

A: My friends come

A: It’s like a little life Q: How do you

come up with your Instagram captions?

A: Things I would say in real life, I do not put a lot of thought into it.

Q: How do you

choose the certain pictures you post?

A: I am not super

Q: Why did you get Instagram in the first place?

A: I got Instagram

because of my cousin, she told me to get it.

Q: Why do you like Instagram?

A: I love editing

A: 6th grade Q: Why did you get Instagram in the first place?

A: Everyone was

getting it and I thought it was cool.

Q: Why do you like Instagram?

photos, I love posting and I like to see what other people post. I just love it.

A: I love pictures. I

Q: How do you

Q: How do you

choose the certain pictures you post?

picky. I post what I like and what represents A: Whichever looks me. the best.

PHOTOS BY CHLOE HARBAUGH

get Instagram?

take a lot of pictures, and it is just a place to put them.

come up with your Instagram captions?

A: They are like

my random thoughts or something that

OF LHS SAM MAX NATE HUNTER SIEGEL BURCHILL BRECHT MERKLEY Followers: 3,123 Followers: 2,054 Followers: 1,977 Followers:1,845 Q: When did you get Q: When did you get Q: Why did you get Q: When did you get Instagram?

Instagram?

A: 6th grade

A: 7th grade

Q: Why did you get Q: Why do you like Instagram in the first place?

Instagram?

A: Max Tobin was on

people are up to.

my hockey team, and he had it. He was like “you got to get this,� so I got it.

Q: Why do you like Instagram?

A: I can see what other people are doing.

Q: How do you

come up with your Instagram captions?

A: I normally just say game day because I post pictures of me

A: You can see what Q: How do you

come up with your Instagram captions?

A: They are mostly

Drake lyrics or song lyrics that I like that fit the picture.

Q: How do you

choose the certain pictures you post?

A: Of course I have got to look good.

Instagram in the first place?

A: Everybody has it Q: Why do you like

Instagram?

A: 3rd or 4th grade Q: Why did you get

Instagram?

Instagram in the first place?

A: Clout.

A: I thought it looked

Q: How do you

come up with your Instagram captions?

A: Whatever I think

cool.

Q: How do you

come up with your Instagram captions?

the ladies would love, A: There are usually that is what I put. like rap song lyrics, like Drake.

Q: How do you

choose the certain pictures you post?

A: I mean I look handsome in all pictures.

Q: How do you

choose the certain pictures you post?

A: The ones I want to post.

Top vacation spots

by Logan Needles

Do you want to get out of Sioux Falls, South Dakota? If so, then you are reading the right article.

Everyone wants to go on that beautiful breathtaking vacation, but sometimes people do not know where to spend that vacation. Here are some of the top places to stay whether your family is ballin on a budget, or if you can afford a more expensive trip.

PARIS, FRANCE Paris, France is on the top of the list. Like all great cities, people can spend months in Paris and barely scratch the surface of the city’s cultural treasures. It has many museums, stellar shopping and busy cafes perfect for tourists.

NEW YORK CITY Next up would be New York. New York is true to its roots and remains a city of immigrants with inspiring architecture and a beautiful arts scene. People can go see a show on Broadway, shop in SoHo, spend a lazy day in Central Park and explore the city’s unique neighborhoods.

CANCUN, MEXICO One more spectacular stay would be Cancun, Mexico.

Miles of beaches, endless attractions to see and visit and a nonstop party atmosphere in Cancun have transformed this once sleepy village on the Yucatan coast into one of Mexico’s most popular tourist attractions, particularly during spring break.

PHOTOS PROVIDED BY CREATIVE COMMONS

Cheaper places to visit YELLOWSTONE

Yellowstone National Park would be at the top of this list. Yellowstone is famous for its abundant geysers, steaming pools, hissing fumaroles and bubbling mud pots. There are over 1,000 miles of trails that wait for walking. If you are lucky you might catch sight of the breath taking bison that roam freely throughout the park.

GRAND CANYON Next up would be the Grand Canyon. With scenery that is hardly fathomable, fascinating living history and its status as one of the great wonders of the world, you wouldn’t regret spending a visit here. The Grand Canyon also has countless activities to experience, and is open year round so it is available at all times.

NIAGARA FALLS

Finally Niagara Falls. The main reason to visit Niagara Falls is to see the falls and one of the most memorable ways to do just that is to sport a poncho and hop on a Maid of the Mist boat.

These boats have been shuttling visitors to and from the base of the falls since the 1840s.

Favorite Christmas desserts around the world

by Mattie Severson

During the holidays many people like to come together to make fun dessert that everyone can enjoy! However, many do not think about what other people around the world do for Christmas desserts. You may end up wanting to try some of these out!

U.S. :

The most popular is the sugar cookie. The sugar cookie is most popular because they are easy and taste like Christmas! Many people enjoy these cookies because they can be rolled into balls or flatted to cut them into various shapes. Then add a bunch of frosting and sprinkles!

Mexico:

One Mexican favorite holiday dessert is bunuelos. Many bunuelos around the world are rolled into balls so it is more like a donut. Mexican bunuelos are flat, crispy, cornflour based bites. They are not only tasty but the sugar that is on top makes the dessert very appealing to the eyes.

Germany:

Spritzkuchen, also known as German crullers, are a popular dessert in Germany.

Many say that a spritzer cookies are very similar but with a twist. Spritzkuchen is a fried pastry with glaze over top. They are very similar to donuts and taste similar.

China:

China’s favorite is called Nan gao also known as year cake. This dessert is eaten all year round, but it is most famous around Chinese New Year. It is a cake made with glutinous rice and considered to be good luck because it symbolizes the increasing prosperity of the new year.

SHARE ALIKE 4.0

After Nov. 1, the season of hot chocolate and Christmas music begins, but what does that mean for Thanksgiving?

With the two holidays being so close to each other, people often get caught up in the fact that Christmas is almost here. They do not realize that Thanksgiving comes first. This may be the reason why many people put their Christmas decorations up before Thanksgiving, a whole month away. Some love the coziness, but others believe that it is way too soon to be putting up that tree.

“If there is Christmas decorations, then you cannot think about Thanksgiving because you are too focused on Christmas,” said Arianna Weldon.

Weldon’s family puts their decorations up after Thanksgiving.

She believes that is the perfect way to cherish both Thanksgiving and Christmas.

GOOD FREE PHOTOS

On the other hand, many families put their Christmas decorations up before Thanksgiving.

There are many reasons for this, one of them may be for the sake of getting it done with, or maybe just to impress the guests.

OPEN CLIP ART LIBRARY

Christmas or Thanksgiving: What comes first? by

Olivia Hustrulid

“In my opinion, putting Christmas decorations up before Thanksgiving is what is best,” said Eunice Richmond. “My family comes for Thanksgiving, and all my grandchildren love seeing the tree. If my decorations were not up it would not

CCO 1.0

even feel like Thanksgiving.”

So, what is the best way to do this? Are people supposed to put their decorations up before Thanksgiving or after Thanksgiving? The answer to that is there is no answer. Everyone’s families are different and everyone prefers different methods.

What we should remember is that Christmas and Thanksgiving are a time of others. A time to be thankful and a time to give, not receive. And, even if your family puts the decorations up after Thanksgiving, there are so many other attributes of Christmas to enjoy.

“Just because the decorations are not up, doesn’t mean I cant listen to the music. I’ve been listening to it since after my birthday in September,” said Weldon.

CCO CREATIVE COMMONS

CCO CREATIVE COMMONS

Social media etiquette: Go big or go home by

Sasmin Mahmutovic

Social media can be a scary place, especially if it is someone’s first time using it and they do not know what they are doing. The same can be said even for long time users who do not realize their mistakes. Etiquette on the Internet is almost always someone’s first impression of a person, whether it is a future employer or a potential significant other. People will always judge everything in real-life and online so it is important to look good. Most people do not realize the things they are doing wrong. It is important to review the social and electronic footprint left behind by users and spot glaring errors that might be potentially disastrous.

This is especially important for dating websites and the most social of websites, such as Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. Connecting with a person on an emotional level and getting to know them before the first encounter is crucial. Simple things such as adding favorite books, music artists, video games and interests in life allow for much better conversational topics and points of interests. I know it is hard to say this, but some things are better left unsaid when it comes to opinions on the Internet. People will say things on a Facebook post that they would normally never say off-line or face-to-face with someone in real life. A profile is a gateway into

A student in journalism browses his Instagram home feed and is quite active on the platform.

One glaring error most people have in their social media profiles is videos, pictures and posts involving some sort of frowned upon behavior like drinking, doing drugs, lying about skills and bad-mouthing previous employers. Cleaning up those posts and pictures is a good head start to looking professional and marketable. Another common mistake is not filling out all the info in the profile section or bio and leaving out details.

Information such as a birthday, the pronunciation of a name, workplace, hometown, age, gender and plenty more allows a person to know the individual and what makes them an actual human being rather than a robot on the Internet.

someone’s soul and identity, posting and even sharing certain articles might be more negative than beneficial in some cases so think before posting. If someone prides themselves as an opinionated person, which might be beneficial in certain job scenarios, at the very least be consistent, no one likes a bandwagoner.

In today’s day and age, the Internet is farreaching and impactful. From employers to boyfriends, everyone will be looking for something bad to pin against someone. Browse safe, think before posting and be mindful of the social etiquette in all scenarios.

PHOTO BY SASMIN MAHMUTOVIC

Riddell Revolution

PROVIDED BY WIKIMEDIA COMMONS

Texas A&M former quarterback, Johnny Manziel, after scoring a touchdown.

by Payton Hughes

Riddell has really stepped up their game in the past 20 years. They went from having helmets that hurt to put on, to helmets that feel like pillows. “[The old helmet] was too sturdy, like too hard,” said sophomore Delano Fields.

“Hurt my head sturdy.”

Riddell came out with the “RIDDELL VSR2-Y” in the 1990s. This was the start of the new better age of better helmets. Even though this helmet wasn’t an adequate one, it was one that caught the eye of many due to the pads in the helmet. It was one of the first with actual plush pads, but there was still the other similar model with the

flat, hard pads.

“It hurts to wear, and isn’t safe to wear,” said Fields.

The next big change that Riddell made was in the new “Riddell Revolution.” In this helmet, the pads were filled with air.

You could plug in a pump and fill the pads to fit your head perfectly. The air also helped take the impact of the fall off of your head by being sort of a cushion. Even though this sounds great, I know from experience that it isn’t. “(The helmet) is trash. I would not recommend it, ” said Fields.

Riddell kept making changes and made

PROVIDED BY FLICKR

Tampa Bay Buccaneers player running onto the field.

one of their best helmets: the “Revolution Speed.” This helmet was the turning point in helmet making. It not only has the cushioned pads, but also had more padding in the softer spots and took out the unneeded padding so your head can breath. This allowed for air to circulate through your helmet so you do not overheat. In some of the newer models they even have a pad cover. It covers all the pads in the helmet, so it id a nice feel and no hair gets pinched.

“It was comfortable, but they could have done better,” said Logan Needles.

And better they did. Riddell has created the “SpeedFlex.” This helmet is the best helmet in the market in some people’s opinions. This helmet got a five star rating from “Virginia Tech Helmet Rating.” This helmet really shocked the world on its look and ability. The helmet has a hexagonal shaped flap on the crown. This is for head to head contact and the flap will flex in.

This allows the helmet to move and your head stay still and safe. They also brought the facemask screws up towards your temples, instead of your forehead. This

allows the helmet to be flexible instead of having objects bounce off with no give.

The “Speedflex” has another safety feature that a lot of people do not even think about: it has a ratchet type chinstrap system that keeps the helmet on. With normal button type chinstraps, the chinstrap can get unbuttoned and can lead to the helmet coming off. But the ratchet system keeps the helmet tight to your head.

In conclusion, Riddell has made a lot of great changes to their helmets and we are happy they don’t make them like they used to.

TOP TEN RATED HELMETS OF 2018 Provided by Virginia Tech Helmet Ratings

• • • • • • • • • •

Schutt F7 LTD-$975 VISIC Zero1-$950 Schutt F7 VTD-$975 Xenith X2E+-$289 Xenith EPIC+-$349 Riddell SpeedFlex-$409.99 SG DBS.001-$329 Schutt Vengence Z10-$210 Schutt Vengence Pro-$225 Schutt F7-$649

PROVIDED BY FLICKR

College football players after receiving their new Speedflexes.

Hey there, I am the little boy who drew this here comic on the next page over. The inspiration was drawn (no pun intended) from my own life experiences with my older brother. My big bro would push me around and mess with me everyday. He would punch my face, pull my hair, make me eat gross stuff, etc. You name it, my brother has most likely done it to me. My bro messed with me all throughout my childhood and I used to think that it came from a place of hate and disappointment, but now that I have matured and we have a mutual respect for one another, I realize that it was always from a place endearment. The moral of this story is if your siblings pick on you, it is not because they hate you, it is because they love you‌ unless you are an insufferable little butt muncher. In that case, they probably do hate you and you probably deserve it.

Oh the places they’ve taught

by Carly Wheeler

Xavier Pastrano: Norway- one semester (5 months) Favorite memories from teaching in Norway?

Teaching Intro to Film, going to Frogner Park and traveling by ship to Copenhagen with some friends.

Most rewarding experience from teaching abroad?

It solidified my desire to be a teacher and, in a weird twist, it ultimately led me to my wife.

PHOTO PROVIDED BY XAVIER PASTRANO

Meghan Anderson-Finch: Salzburg, Austria- 1 year Craziest memory from teaching in Austria?

Having my wallet stolen in Rome and meeting the guy who wrote “Macbook for Dummies.”

How was the school you taught at different from Lincoln?

200 students from more than 30 countries; Americans and English speakers were in the minority. I taught at a boarding school and lived in the building with the kids. It was hard to draw the line between being a houseparent and being a teacher.

Abbie Wilke: San Jose Succotz, Belize- 2 weeks

PHOTO PROVIDED BY ABBIE WILKE

Craziest memory from teaching in Belize?

How polite the students were.

Challenges of teaching abroad?

Coming up with lesson plans as there was no technology and not a lot of resources, which is something many U.S. teachers bank on.

Michelle Ortmeier: Germany- 3 years Craziest memory from teaching in Germany?

Almost having our passports taken by humongous, Polish speaking meatheads on a bus in Poland.

Challenges of teaching abroad?

Being far away from friends and family. My kids were in Germany with me, and it was really hard as a parent to see them struggling without their friends.

PHOTO PROVIDED BY MICHELLE ORTMEIER

Emily Koo: South Korea- 1 year Craziest memory from teaching in South Korea?

Staying out late and being very independent. I traveled alone a lot throughout Asia (in a time WAY before smartphones). My parents, at least, thought I was crazy.

Most rewarding experience from teaching abroad?

Working with kids who really wanted to learn; the majority of my students were interested in attending universities in the U.S. or Canada.

PHOTO PROVIDED BY EMILY KOO

PHOTO PROVIDED BY MEGHAN ANDERSON-FINCH

PHOTO PROVIDED BY CHARNELLE WOOLEDGE

Charnelle Wooledge: Guam- 3 years Craziest memory from teaching in Guam?

The year typhoon Omar hit at the beginning of the school year and school didn’t start on time. We were without water and electricity for six weeks.

Most rewarding experience from teaching abroad?

Teaching in an area where you are the minority. The island people and students were always helpful and very respectful.

MEET TH

by Brooke Lindsay and Emily Sprecher

MATTIE SEVERSON

BROOKE LINDSAY

One thing that gets you through the school day?

Slader.

Favorite Holiday Movie?

“The Polar Express” Biggest secret?

I am clumsy.

One thing that gets you through the school day?

Advil.

Favorite Holiday Movie?

“Home Alone” Biggest secret?

I’m not sure where half of my textbooks are at the moment.

One thing that gets you through the school day?

Coffee.

Favorite Holiday Movie?

“Elf” Biggest secret?

I am scared of the dark.

EMILY SPRECHER

CALEB MILLER

One thing that gets you through the school day?

Starbucks and Advil.

Favorite Holiday Movie?

“Elf” Biggest secret?

Sometimes, I cheat on my algebra homework.

One thing that gets you through the school day?

TBH, Slader.com.

Favorite Holiday Movie?

“A Christmas Story” Biggest secret?

I watched my first rated-R movie without my parent’s knowledge.

KAT STEFFEN

CARLY WHEELER

LOGAN NEEDLES

One thing that gets you through the school day? Knowing that I can nap once I get home.

Favorite Holiday Movie?

“Elf” Biggest secret?

I won’t nap once I get home, even though I say I will.

PEYTON HUGHES

One thing that gets you through the school day?

My boys.

Favorite Holiday Movie?

“A Christmas Story” or “Arthur’s Christmas” Biggest Secret?

I am a good builder in Fortnite.

MAKAYLA MOFLE

One thing that gets you through the school day?

Fortnite videos.

Favorite Holiday Movie?

“Elf” Biggest secret?

Ariana Grande is my true love.

One thing that gets you through the school day?

Coffee.

Favorite Holiday Movie?

“Home Alone” Biggest secret?

I cannot ice skate for my life.

MARA WORTHINGTON One thing that gets you through the school day?

Friends.

Favorite Holiday Movie?

“The Grinch” Biggest Secret?

I don’t like Starbucks.

HE CLASS AVERY BLACKMAN One thing that gets you through the school day?

Time.

Favorite Holiday Movie?

“The Grinch” Biggest Secret?

Sound out my full name.

CHLOE HARBAUGH One thing that gets you through the school day?

Lauren Merkley’s beautiful face.

Favorite Holiday Movie?

“Bad Santa” Biggest Secret?

I don’t brush my hair.

LILLI EPPINGA

One thing that gets you through the school day?

Knowing my Ben & Jerry’s is waiting for me.

Favorite Holiday Movie?

“Elf” Biggest Secret?

I don’t know how to spell definetly.

CHLOE BROWN One thing that gets you through the school day?

Lunch.

Favorite Holiday Movie?

“Elf” Biggest Secret?

I’m a terrible singer.

JULIA IVEY

One thing that gets you through the school day?

Coffee.

Favorite Holiday movie?

“Elf” Biggest Secret?

I never do my Spanish homework.

OLIVIA HUSTRULID SASMIN MAHMUTOVIC

SOMER ANDERSON

One thing that gets you through the school day?

Knowing that the end of the day is coming.

Also... Mrs. Conover.

Favorite Holiday Movie?

“Elf” Biggest Secret?

Coffee addict.

One thing that gets you through the school day?

My phone charger.

Favorite Holiday Movie?

“The Grinch” Biggest Secret?

My cat is actually a dog.

VINCE HOFER

One thing that gets you through the school day?

The thought of going home and playing video games and reading Manga and Anime.

Favorite Holiday Movie?

“The Grinch” Biggest Secret?

I’m a really boring guy in real life.

One thing that gets you through the school day?

Doodling in my notebook.

Favorite Holiday Movie?

“Die Hard” Biggest Secret?

I can’t read, that’s why I draw.

PHOTOS BY BROOKE LINDSAY AND EMILY SPRECHER

PHOTO PROVIDED BYREATIVE COMMONS

Has social media changed life today?

Social media has changed life in both good and bad ways. Social media has done more bad than good.

Many people have been bullied through social media. Over 25 percent of adolescents and teens have been bullied through social media according to the website, Bullying Statistics.

This website also said that one in three young people have been experienced cyber threats or have been bullied on social media.

Amy Powell a freshman at LHS thinks social media has made society turn for the worst.

“Social media has definitely changed the minds of teens and how teens think and treat each other,” said Powell.

“Social media has created more problems around bullying and suicide. Some teens think its ok to say what they want because their not saying it to their face,” said Powell.

However, social media does have its upsides.

Social media can connect people and allow people to make new friends. It could give people a chance to talk to different people around the

by Mara Worthington

world. Social media is also a good way to keep in touch with people over time.

Social media has also affected some lives when it comes to romance. With websites like Tinder and Match, many people in our society have took on online dating apps.

According to the website Statista, 6 percent of people are currently use dating apps. Now days, people are connecting online, rather than in person face to face, which may not be a good idea.

Social media plays an important role when it comes to whether or not people receive the job they want. The managers often try to find as much as they can on the Internet about the applicant’s background, which can be a good or a bad opportunity depending on what they find.

Without social media many people today would have very different lives because many make an income off of social media, including websites like YouTube, Instagram ect.

Social media is changing society and needs help protecting everyone on it.

CHECK OUT THE LHS STATESMAN’S WEBISTE LHSSTATESMAN.COM