M the MENTOR
March 12, 2013
Manhattan High School, Manhattan, Kan.
News Volume 100 issue 20
Hoyt reveals personal Seniors shake it ‘Harlem’ style for video hopes for next year Naomi McClendon Entertainment Editor Greg Hoyt’s new position as principal next year won’t be his first involvement with Manhattan High School. In fact, as a 1983 graduate and former teacher at MHS, Hoyt has been part of the school for longer than its current students, a group that includes his senior daughter, have even been alive. Hoyt’s history with MHS is far-reaching, lengthy and even a little romantic. Hoyt is currently the principal at Eisenhower Middle School. Prior to that, Hoyt was back inside the walls of MHS. After graduating from MHS in ’83 and completing college, Hoyt worked as a math teacher at the high school. He also coached football and track from 1988 to 2004. Hoyt is connected not only to the school, but many of the people in it. Next year will serve as a reunion between Hoyt and Activities Director Mike Marsh, who were buddies when they attended Manhattan High together 30 years ago. Hoyt’s family is just as familiar to MHS as he is. This spring, Hoyt’s third daughter, Tyler, will graduate from MHS. Although his feelings about his last daughter’s graduation are bitter-sweet, Hoyt is glad that she won’t be attending the school that he administrates. “I don’t know how glad she is that she won’t have me at school,” Hoyt said. “But I’m glad she won’t be there. That’s just a lot of pressure on kids,
CNA classes opens its doors to juniors and seniors
from their peers and from adults.” Hoyt’s history at Manhattan High gets even more adorable -- MHS is also where Hoyt met his wife. According to Hoyt, he met Leslie, who currently teaches history at MHS, when
Meet the new principal Favorite Color Blue
Favorite Team Chicago Cubs & everything K-State
Favorite Food Surf ‘n’ Turf (seafood and steak)
Favorite TV Show Seinfeld
Favorite Music Anything but Hip-Hop
they were both teachers at the school. “I had seen her before,” Hoyt said. “But we were introduced in the teacher’s lounge.” The two started talking, then dating, and the rest is history. Hoyt’s story is certainly not
one you see every day. “It’s a little weird -- definitely unique,” Hoyt said. “I wouldn’t say it’s been a position I’ve aspired to be in, but I’ve always liked school leadership, and this is a great opportunity.” Hoyt is excited to take the next step in his life in the place he calls home. “I love Manhattan, so this is really an exciting opportunity,” he said. “It’s a terrific school district in a terrific community in a terrific state. Manhattan will always be home.” Next year, Hoyt hopes to reconnect. “I’m most excited about the opportunity to reconnect with old colleagues and former students,” Hoyt said. “I have students for two years, and then when they get to high school, I lose track of them -- I almost can’t recognize them anymore. I look forward to seeing them.” Despite his excitement and hope for the upcoming years, Hoyt knows that MHS presents a big challenge. “The purpose of schools is to maximize learning and to create an environment where learning is cherished and valued,” Hoyt explained. “At the same time, it has to be fun, because that’s when everybody thrives the most.” According to Hoyt, the biggest obstacle MHS presents is its size. “I always try to get to know everybody, and let everybody know who I am -- my beliefs, how I go about making decisions,” Hoyt said. “Such a large school makes that a significant challenge.”
Spread the Word to End the Word
Dheepthi Perumal Multimedia Editor Students at Manhattan High School are interested in many career pathways, one major one being the medical field. Manhattan Area Technical College is giving the opportunity for juniors and seniors at MHS to take a class toward becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant. This is a new opportunity for juniors and seniors interested in becoming a doctor, nurse, etc. “I decided to take the class because I love helping people out, no matter what age,” senior Holly Morris said. “And making a change in the world, even if it is as simple as assisting [nursing home] residents. I know they appreciate what I do, and I cannot be more thankful to have them in my life.” Kari Vogt, human services teacher at MHS, is the advisor who is overseeing the students. The students have a period of the day where they go to the MHS East Campus to take a class where they can do all their tests and worksheets. “The class is going smooth-
Students Against Destructive Decisions partnered with the Kansas Highway Patrol and the Riley County Police Department in the parking lots of Manhattan High this morning to hand out information about seat belts. “We’re not even going to look to see if people are wearing their seatbelt. The Highway patrol won’t give out tickets that morning. It’s just to provide education,” SADD sponsor Kari Quiton said. However, next week during spring break the highway patrol will be handing out tickets around town. “Their target isn’t to come
BOE votes to keep same schedule for 2013-2014 year Sarah Shi News Editor The Board of Education voted last Wednesday to keep the current seven-hour schedule for the 2013-2014 school year. The seven-hour schedule was one of the three schedule options the High School Task Force presented to the BOE. The “6 Plus Zero Hour with Late Start” was one of the other three, which included a sixhour day with an optional zero hour available to students who wanted to take more electives than a traditional six-period day. The “7 Hour Modified Block with Late Start ” was the third option, which would only allow block scheduling on Wednesdays and Thursdays, with Monday, Wednesday and Friday having the same sevenhour schedule.
“When we created the plans we had to make sure the we kept PLT. [The schedule] was instructionally efficient and economically efficient,” High School Task Force member Karen Curtin said. During their first reading last Wednesday, the BOE made three recommended motions that passed. The first required the Manhattan High School administration to develop a master schedule for the 2013-2014 year in which teachers teaching one of the four core classes are required to participate in Professional Learning Time. The second recommended motion directed MHS administration to develop and implement plans to schedule time beyond the standard teaching assignment where planning time is used exclusively for professional de-
velopment. The third and final recommended motion that was passed secures that the seven-hour schedule will stay intact for the 2013-2014 year but allows the school to continue exploration of a modified block schedule for the 2014-2015 years that maintains seven class/semester options for students. “I have no opinion about the changes,” associate superintendent Robert Seymour said. “No matter what number of periods we have, I’m sure the administration will work with the board and staff to find what works best for the students.” The BOE will have a second reading March 28 to discuss further recommended motions and suggestions to the the 2013-2014 schedule.
German language students compete at ‘Schülerkongress’ Kaitlin Wichmann Photo Editor
IPS set up a Spread the Word to End the Word banner March 6 in an effort to get students to pledge to not say the word ‘retarded.’ Kayla Dieker, photographer ly,” Morris said. “It isn’t difficult, you just have to make sure you keep up with the work and understand the rights and wrongs of becoming a CNA.” With most of the hard
Clu b Notes SADD
The senior class participated in the “Harlem Shake” trend during both lunches last Tuesday as part of the senior video. A version was taped during each lunch period. Liz Logback, photographer
to the school to give out tickets anyhow,” Quiton said. “They do this all over the state and they like to partner with schools and groups like SADD in order to do it.” Educating the high school age group is important because fines differ based on age category. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention 2.3 million people in 2009 were treated in emergency departments due to not wearing seat belts. More than 90 people died each day in 2009 because they weren’t wearing seat belts. This activity is different from their annual dum dums or smarties handout. “It’s their initiative and we’re just part-
work done, the students are now starting clinicals at Via Christi. Their first one was on Saturday with two shifts from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. and the next shift from 2 p.m. to 10 p.m. For more, go to mhsmentor.com
nering with them. But because we do that seat belt check every year the relationship made sense for this event for us to kind of help them give out the information,” Quiton said. - Connor Bliss
Brown Bag Lunch Series Communications and jobs in media will be the topic of today’s Brown Bag Lunch Series presentation. Since October, the Career and Technical Education department has hosted a diverse group of speakers during both lunches. Each Brown Bag Lunch targets a different postsecondary career, whether it be about joining the military or entering the workforce, and tries to provide information on what it takes to be successful in the field.
It’s a difficult and nerve wracking task to stand up in front of a judge and perform a poem, especially in a different language. But that’s exactly what select students from the German language department did on March 2 when they attended a competition called ‘Schülerkongress’ in Lawrence. Along with reciting poetry, students also competed in prose reading, spelling contests, a culture quiz, a video contest and a poster contest. Some teachers just have their students perform and master a certain event, such as The media Brown Bag Lunch was scheduled for Feb. 26, but due to snow days, the event was postponed to today. Today’s group of speakers include Chris Fisher, anchor, and Lindsey Rogers, reporter, both from WIBW Channel 13; and Cathy Dawes, news director, and Matt Walters, sportscaster, both from KMAN 1350. Dawes is host of “In Focus” and Walters hosts “The Game.” CTE Director Dawn Lindsley took in two deciding factors while choosing the speakers. “I chose the media because we have a CTE career cluster in that area,” Lindsley said. “I was hoping that we could get some coverage, too. I’m expecting a pretty good turnout. Maybe 75 to 100 for both lunches.” - Sarah Shi
the poetry recitation, but German teacher Elke Lorenz sees the benefits in having her students participate in all of the events. “My students attend all of the events, and not all schools do that. I think it’s good for them to prepare for all events so that they all can participate in the poetry recitation, in prose reading and in spelling,” Lorenz said. “Teams of four can participate in the Kulturquiz, so I have teams of four in each level. We also participated in the video competition and poster contest. We participated in all events on all levels: German 1 through 5.” After the long day of hard
work, the students were treated with a trip to the World Market, where they could buy food from all over the world. “My favorite part was going to the World Market afterwards,” sophomore Sachin Deyoung said. “It paid off for all of the studying I did for the prose and poetry.” Lorenz was very happy with the results from this year’s trip. “It went extraordinarily well this year,” Lorenz said. “I think we really got the most medals of all schools. We went with 33 students, three exchange students and we got a total of 55 recognitions.”
Gifted
ous choice when it came down to choosing the speaker. “I thought that his topic would be applicable for all the students and not really only students in the gifted program but for all students to learn some things that they can learn to do now to expand their view on the world,” gifted educator Carla Johnston said. - Kaitlin Wichmann
“Becoming an Educated Person” was the topic of presentation last Tuesday by KSU Professor of Psychology, Dr. Jerry Frieman. Gifted students were invited to the Little Theater for the special presentation on the lifelong process of education. Frieman discussed how education is a lifelong process. Students seemed to have positive feedback after the speech. “It was a different pace than usual, but I was interested and amused,” senior Jack HublerDayton said. Senior Logan Sutton agreed. “It was very interesting to listen to and he really knew what he was talking about,” Sutton said. Jerry Frieman was the obvi-
Bellus Academy Looking at a career in cosmetology? Manhattan High School arranged a trip for any students who are interested in cosmetology to go to Bellus Academy on Thursday from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. The school will provide transportation and lunch on the day of event. For more, go to mhsmentor.com
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March 12, 2013
the MENTOR
Opinions
R-e-s-p-e-c-t though that would be interesting).
John Rifergiate Staff Writer When trivial issues arise, people at least consider the opposing opinion and make a decision for themselves. However, when important issues are addressed, there is always a fight, and people are not willing to change their viewpoint, or even listen. People are entitled to their opinions, but it is important to respect the opinions of others. Your opinions should not encroach upon the free speech of the people you are trying to refute. No one wants to listen to a person ridiculing every aspect of their beliefs, just because it is possible. At this point, it just becomes easier to change the subject than address the issue. When someone says something that challenges your way of thinking, do them the courtesy of taking a moment to consider it. They may know what they are talking about! Like me, you may realize that you have not researched every nuance of every issue, including every possible argument and counterargument. I for one know that I am not all powerful and omniscient (al-
When someone cares enough about a topic to tell you what they really think about it, it is likely they have spent a great deal of time and energy figuring out what it means to them. It starts first from the beliefs of their parents, peers and politicians, then from within themselves and what they feel to be true. Listening to someone with a different knowledge base than you can also help you refine your own argument. Because each and every person has a unique outlook on life, they may say something that makes you feel stronger in your beliefs, or question them with a new view on what they said. A belief system takes a lifetime to form and should be treated with more reverence than flaming someone with a reply about why the person is wrong, or cleverly dismissing them and refusing to listen. Agreeing to disagree is okay, but the lack of listening and ingratitude for insight debasing our society makes me shudder.
Halsey Camera, cartoonist
In defense of heroes Regina Harden Guest Writer
I teach English Literature. I am not a philosopher, historian, theologian, politician, or social commentator. But I often feel the need to be a little of each of these callings when teaching literature. I am overwhelmed with the need to help empower my students to see their world, their lives, their struggles, their beliefs and their philosophies through the literature that we read. I would like students to see literature as both a lens and a mirror to their world. As we read the stories of characters from Beowulf to Hamlet, we see their humanity echoed, for good or ill, in our own lives. Great literature opens our minds to great deeds, struggles, conflicts, achievements and ideas. Inspiration is drawn from the ideas, and ultimately growth and change
are derived from that inspiration. Our world needs inspiration. People need inspiration. We need inspiration. When we open a good book, we have a voice in our head that whispers “inspire me”. Teach me. Open to me a new world and a new idea. Help me see myself and the people around me differently. Help me see a belief or an idea in a new light. Help me see a struggle or conflict through someone else’s eyes. And hopefully the book complies. It opens, and our understanding changes. It closes and we are inspired to examine our ideas and beliefs through a different lens. We soak up a bit of each character in a novel, embracing their lives, learning their lessons, and experiencing their transformations. Thus we are transformed. In literature we read about heroes. We follow the trials and travails of heroes who
changed their worlds, fought the injustices, and instilled equality in their societies. Heroes that would die for their beliefs and patriots that would take a stand until the end. Literature teaches us about heroes who are not just sports figures, celebrities, or millionaires, but heroes with integrity, honor, loyalty, love, devotion, nobility, and courage. I believe that in every student there is a leader and a hero. If reading a novel of heroism and courage inspires and teaches, then we help create the heroes of tomorrow. As an educator, I feel the burden of creating tomorrow’s citizens, and the crush of responsibility that comes with helping young people form open and educated opinions about the world they live in and the people who share this planet. That’s why I feel that it is imperative to give students literature and writing ac-
tivities that will educate them to humanity’s history, inspire them to incorporate tolerance and justice into their lives and attitudes, and empower them to be proponents for change. Our world needs educated people, but even more, our world needs inspired, educated people. Our world needs heroes. I believe that every individual has the power to change the world. Students need to know that they have the power to create a difference, and that that power has a foothold in knowledge and education. When they close a good book, I hope they have a new understanding of the people and world around them. They see anew the necessity for them to be a positive force in that world. And they know in their hearts …they can be a hero. Regina Harden teaches English at Manhattan High School.
Black Tracfone
Lost and Found
Two rings and a pair of hoop earrings Pair of black Adidas tennis shoes Pair of orange Nike shorts
Graphic by Dheepthi Perumal
Pair of purple Adidas shorts Pair of green shorts Pair of pink & grey tennis shoes iPod List gathered by Maddie Ross
Senior year plagued with decision-making Julith Perry
staff writer
With barely three months left of high school, seniors have major decisions to make. What college to attend come fall? What to wear to senior prom? What to wear to graduation? What to study in college? So many decisions to make, so little time to make them. Out of all these decisions to make, the toughest is what college/university to attend next year. By now most of us know where we have been
accepted to, and now it is in our hands to choose the one is where we’ll spend the next years of our lives. How can I choose when there are so many excellent options? Stay in Kansas? Go back to Florida? Or be bold and go to New York? Those are my choices and I simply cannot pick one. But with deadlines for either accepting or declining coming up, the need to make a decision is crucial. There are a few less critical decisions I need to make. It may seem silly to worry over what to wear to prom and graduation, but 20 years from now we will all be glad we gave it a thought. I don’t want to spend my life regretting that I wore heels to graduation and fell in front of everyone, when instead I should have worn red sparkly Toms. I also don’t want to regret the dress I wear
to senior prom. I want to be confident the dress I pick is something I’m going to look at in 20 years and think “I looked fabulous, honey.” For some seniors, the decision what to study in college lingers in their brains. There is nothing wrong with not knowing what you want to study yet. That’s what freshmen year is for -- to experience, think and to truly find yourself. Don’t let it scare you if your best friend has known since he came out of the womb that he wants to attend the Fashion Institute of Technology and take the fashion world by storm. We are all different; base your decisions on what you want for your future, not on what others are doing with theirs. My grandparents have been preparing me for this for years now. Both being Ivy League graduates they are the type of people who spent their
entire lives telling their grandkids that “you only have one chance to get it right.” While that may or may not be true, no matter how many pros and cons lists we make or how hard we try to make the right decision that will please everyone, it won’t matter. Whether it’s grandma or grandpa, someone will always be hurt you didn’t choose their alma mater. As young adults, we need to start making decisions that we will be able to live with in 20 years. After all it’s not going to be grandma or grandpa, or your best friend, who is the one regretting the decisions they made senior year, it’s going to be you, honey. So do yourselves a favor, start giving these decisions some thought and worry about what’s best for yourself, not anyone else.
The Mentor is an open forum and accepts letters and guest columns from students, faculty members and parents. Letters and columns are distinct from each other. Letters are in response to content in this publication and are recommended to be no longer than 350 words. Columns are a new topic, a call to action or a clear statement of an opinion regarding a school or national issue and are required to be within 300-600 words in length. Anyone interested in contributing a guest column is advised to clear the topic with the editorial staff prior to writing it in order to save time and effort. E-mail ideas and submissions to Editor-in-Chief Ben Shields at mhsmentor-opinions@gmail.com. Staff meetings take place every five-day school week on Tuesdays during fourth hour. Anyone is invited to come pitch ideas.
the Mentor staff editor in chief/opinions -Ben Shields news editor -Sarah Shi entertainment editor -Naomi McClendon sports editor -Nick Bandy features editor -Liz Logback trending co-editors Connor Bliss Maddie Ross photo editor -Kaitlin Wichmann copy editor -Kayla Dieker multimedia editor - Dheepthi Perumal business manager - Jerry Sextro adviser -Kristy Nyp cartoonist - Halsey Camera
writers/photographers - Danielle Cook Tre Fuentes Julianne Harkness Jordan Morris Julith Perry John Riforgiate Nastajja Rivera John Rockey Seth Runyan Maddy Sparks Derrek Williams circulation - Kristyn Baker Leonard Castilow David Clinkinbeard Patrick Falcone Corey Garrison Sam LaFleur Kasey Morris Mallory Morris Kendall Oatney Emma Rowley Austin Tatum Seth Wagner
The Mentor is published each Tuesday that school is in session at Manhattan High School, 2100 Poyntz Ave. Manhattan, Kan. Telephone (785) 587-2114. More than 1,500 Mentors are printed each week and distributed free of charge to all faculty members and students. MHS journalists are members of the Scholastic Press Association. The Mentor is an open forum that accepts contributions from the public. E-mail us at mhsmentor@gmail.com.
Entertainment
T hespians put on annual talent show Ben Shields Editor-in-Chief There is only one school event a year that consists of ghost stories, poetry readings, musical numbers and improvisational Paris Hilton impressions. “Coffee House” is an annual fundraiser put on by the Thespians, a casual talent show open to anyone within or outside the Thespian club. Coffee and cookies are served all night. Senior Andrew Schulz took to the stage several times: with an impersonation of Rachel Berry from the television show “Glee,” reading the poem “Invictus” by William Ernest Henley and a humorous, improvised original short story about his first kiss. He has done improv with the school Improv Team for two years. “I just thought, ‘What can I do to make everyone laugh?’ so I wrote it on the spot,” Schulz said regarding his short story. “Annie [Spence] and Alex [Brase] were so excited to act it out.” “[‘Coffee House’ is] a lot of fun,” he said. “The more people you have the more fun it is. You should go if you plan on doing something for a va-
riety show and want see what the response is, because it’s kind of a relaxed setting and no one will judge you.” At the same time, Schulz thinks the traditionally small crowd at “Coffee House” is part of what makes it such an enjoyable event and does not think it should be broadcasted too much. “It’s good for everyone to see everyone else’s talents, but we don’t want a ton of people coming.” It was senior and Thespian president Ilana Budenosky’s fourth and final time at “Coffee House.” Her favorite thing this year was seeing Schulz impersonate Rachel Berry and sing “Defying Gravity.” She did a dance and song number with senior Da’Merius Ford to “Taking Care of Business.” She also read a short original poem about humans and, by request from drama department head Linda Uthoff, read Shel Silverstein’s “Rain.” “It’s a great bonding time,” she said. “My favorite ever ‘Coffee House’ memory was two years ago when the place was packed and we had to cut several people off for inappropriateness.”
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coffee House
Meet the Candidates Zane
Zane Hayden is a senior participant in cross country, swimming, marching band and German Club. He considers both his best and worst trait as being a loose cannon. His reason for joining Mr. MHS? “To beat Nick Donohoue.” Best gift ever received? “A package of Oreos.” Where in the world would you want to live? “Florida.” If you were a crayon what color you be? “Orange-red,because Hayden would hyphens improve everything.”
James Leblow
Pat Zenk is a senior who enjoys singing, sports and Boy Scouts. His favorite food is chicken fettucini, and in one word would describe himself as flamboyant. If he was a star in his own reality show it would be entitled “Here Comes Paddy Boo Boo.” If he were a flower he would be a tulip because “two” is better than one. If you were one of the 50 states which would you be? “California because I like to live life on the edge.” If you were an amusement park ride, what would you be? “The Sizzler because I make it hot.” Why do think a tennis ball has fuzz? “Because it is too lazy to shave.”
Pat Zenk
Nick
Nicholas Donohoue is a senior who enjoys dance, piano and singing. He has a dog named Dakota, and a cat named Simba. His idol is is Kelly Clarkson because she was the first American Idol. St. Patrick’s Day is his favorite holiday because it involves corned beef hash, and his most prized possession is his “Pokemon” games. If you could be a celebrity who would you be? “Bruno Mars, so I can pull off a fedora.” If you could be a celebrity who would you be? “Bruno Mars, so I can pull off a fedora.” Worst lie you have ever told your mom? “That she Donohoue has the voice and body of Beyonce.” Favorite movie? “‘Mean Girls,’ because it is my story.”
Ethan Schmidt is a junior whose favorite hobby is reading because you can escape to a different world. His favorite sports team is the Toronto Maple Leafs and if he were a car he would be a VW bug because like him it is small and dependable. What would be your ideal date? “Chinese takeout in China.” Favorite elementary school lunch? “PB and J.” Dumbest thing you believed as a kid? “Babies come from belly buttons.”
Ethan Schmidt
Event overshadows trolley tour Seth Runyan Staff Writer A historical trolley tour of Manhattan as a fundraiser for Wonder Workshop was postponed because it coincided with the Fake Patty’s Day and inclement weather forecasts. The MHK Trolley and Wonder Workshop was to give Manhattanites a tour of the city’s roots. Manhattan High School Alumni Joshua Runyan and Scott Sieben run the MHK Trolley business and now plan to move the tour to the Juneteenth celebration. also took part in the research and planning for the tour. The tour, named “Call Me, Manhattan” primarily focuses on Manhattan community
roots from 1855 to 1925. “Our goal is to recognize the beginning of the community. We’ll stop at the houses that housed the original families that contributed to Manhattan,” Richard Pitts, owner of the Wonder Workshop, said. “We want to acknowledge those families that haven’t been recognized fully.” Pitts, who has interest in history, likes to see how it has affected his own life. “Personally, I get a boost looking at my ancestors and what they went through,” Pitts said. Runyan was eager to help Pitts. “The Wonder Workshop is a necessity for the community and all underprivileged kids,” Runyan said. Runyan and Sieben bought
$1off
3901 Vanesta Dr. Manhattan, KS Tweet: @MrKsBar 785-320-2730
Double Cookie Bakes With MHS ID
James Leblow is a senior who participates in cross country and track and enjoys making friends and the song “Call Me Maybe.” If he could star in his own reality show it would be titled “Bachelor Idol,” a combination of “The Bachelor” and “American Idol.” If you were to participate in the Olympics what sport would you enter? “Weightlifting, for the ladies.” Favorite elementary school lunch? “Mystery Meat Mondays.”
the Trolley last year. Although it’s a business, Runyan’s focus was primarily on the community. “I didn’t buy the trolley for profits, I bought it to give back to the community,” Runyan said. The MHK Trolley is giving 80 percent of all profits to the business to help pay for the renovations on the new Wonder Workshop building. “I’m really just trying to gain money to help Pitts with the renovations,” Runyan said. “I do it for the kids.” While the Wonder Workshop does try to give the kids an insight on their history and their community, that’s only one aspect. “I believe in opening the doors of arts and sciences for these kids. We try to inspire them to open the books themselves,” Pitts said. There are still seats available for the tour, with the price of the tickets being only $20. For any other information of the tour, it can found on the MHK Trolley’s page on Facebook, or the email address mhktrolley@gmail.com. The Wonder Workshop’s website is www.wonderworkshop.org.
Jakob Borgen is a senior whose hobbies include Thespians, AFS, Earth Club, music and soccer. His favorite MHS teacher is Mr. Woodford because of his mustache. He considers Mondays his worst high school memory. YOLO is popular with Borgen for it is both his favorite pick-up line and quote. Favorite Restaurant? “Cheesecake Factory.” If you were on Survivor where do you want to show to take place? “Norway, ha!”
Ryan Deters is a senior who is involved in football and Boy Scouts. He describes his personality as similar to Ryan Reynolds, and his favorite teacher is Mr. Duntz because he is a bro. He is afraid of spiders and heights, and describes “the people” as the best part of living in Manhattan. Dumbest thing you believed as a kid? “That dinosaurs were real.” Da’Merius is a senior whose future aspiration is to be a Broadway actor. Activities that he currently participates in are music composition, laziness and senioritis. He describes himself in one word as laughter, and his greatest fear is dying on a rollercoaster. Best pickup line? “I don’t need pickup lines, people pick me up.” 2+2= “a heart if the other 2 is mirroring the first 2.” If you were on Jersey shore who would you be? “Pauly D, yo!” If you had to wear one color of nailpolish for the rest of your life what would it be? “Tiffany blue.
Jakob Borgen
Ryan Deters
Da’Merius Ford
Choirs make trip to Disney World Danielle Cook Staff Writer
The school hallways are already buzzing with pre-spring break excitement. Road trips, beach visits and simply relaxing at home without having to deal with schoolwork are definitely on everyone’s brain. But perhaps the students who are most anticipating spring break’s arrival are the Manhattan High students going on the choir’s biannual trip to Florida. Students from Pops, Varsity, Chamber and other choirs will get to hit off their spring break by performing live at Disney World. On Friday, the 77 choir students attending the trip will board their busses and be on their way to Orlando. Not only are attending students excited for the trip alone, but are also eager for their chance to perform for Disney World’s other visitors. “I’m so excited to perform. It’ll be fun,” junior Ellie Mankin said “I’m not so much nervous because we’ve done performances for big
audiences before, and we’ll all just be there having fun with friends.” Generally, nervousness about performing among the attending choir students seems a small, or nearly nonexistent factor, overshadowed by excitement. “I’m not nervous; we’ve done stuff like this,” sophomore Charlotte Benjamin said. Benjamin is one of a few choir students who will perform an acapella solo at Disney World. “I love just getting to sing with my friends every day, and this will be really cool.” “I don’t even get nervous,” sophomore Cameron MyersBowman, another of Varsity Choir’s soloists, said. “I’m just excited to go.” As well as the excitement of it all, the students will get a chance to experience performing in a professional manner. “Our goal every year is to perform, in some way, as professionals; Disney really treats you like professionals when you go,” Chad Pape, MHS choir director said. Pape will, of course, be one of the super-
vising adults accompanying the students on their trip. Part of performing like professionals includes getting to perform on some of the bigger stages that Disney World has to offer. “Pops will perform on this floating stage in Downtown Disney, and the whole group will perform on one big stage in Epcot Center,” Pape said. After performing on Monday, the choir students will be free to explore Disney World for the rest of their time in Orlando. Other than being excited to perform, this is the part of the trip that the attending students are most anticipating. “I’m beyond excited. Yesterday it hit me that we’re actually going to Disney. Performing with my friends will be fun. It’ll be even more fun to hang out with them at Disney,” Mankin said. Pape enjoys watching his group get close and have fun together as well. “The kids always really bond through the time we’re there; it really just makes the choir into a family,” he said.
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the MENTOR
Sports
spring practice and tryouts begin Danielle Cook staff writer With spring just around the corner, spring sports, like boys tennis, are just warming up. Going on for a little over a week now, tryouts for the Manhattan High Boys Tennis team are spiked full of energy and friendly competition. The boys out for tennis are currently set up in a doubleelimination pre-season tournament. According to head coach Charles Kipp, this tryout tactic is designed to show off the skills and improvement of potential players. “Tryouts show me improvement and who’s open to hard work and teamwork,” Kipp said. Last year, there were only around 30 boys who tried out for tennis, all of them making the team. However, this year, cuts will be made due to an increasing number of boys trying out. “This year, we have around 36 guys, and it’ll come down to around 30,” Kipp said. “We just don’t have enough court space to work with that many players.” Though some boys will be cut, sophomore Justin Gittle believes that they’d make a great team no matter the results of tryouts. “I feel like we all mesh really well as of right now,” Gittle said. Returning to the alreadybonded group are Varsity players from the previous season, Dustin Hayes, Jake Seaton, and John Turnley. Kipp says he’s also seen a lot of improvement in J.V. players from last year. “It’s always good to see improvement from one season to the next; we see a lot of improvement just even from freshman to sophomore,” he said. Kipp believes that practice is a major contributor to im-
Tennis
Baseball finishes tryouts Nick Bandy sports editor After eight days of tryouts the Manhattan High baseball team finally decided its Varsity and J.V. squads last Friday. “Tryouts have been extremely tough because we have some talented ball players and it’s been difficult to separate them and place them on different teams,” head coach Don Hess said. Due to the weather, tryouts were held indoors, forcing the team to mainly focus on hitting and pitching. “We’ve been confined indoors all off-season so translating that to the field will be crucial,” senior Josh Klug said. “We’ve got to get back in the hitting rhythm, baseball is
about rhythm.” This week they hope to get outside to start working on other skills on the field. “We’ll spend a couple days working on pitching, and then hopefully we’ll spend the other days working on hitting and defense,” Hess said. Over spring break the Indians will have three practices in Manhattan, unlike last year when they traveled to Arizona, which only happens once every three years. Depending on the weather, one of their practices over break may be a six-hour scrimmage to practice real-game situations and experiences. The Indians’ first two games will be a double header at home on March 26 against Wichita East and Derby. They
lost their first game last year to Wichita East. “We feel like we have a little payback there that will motivate us. They’re both quality teams so we’ll have to be prepared and ready to play right off the bat,” Hess said. Overall the Indians are led by their experienced seniors and their deep junior class that is one of the largest ever. The team has a positive outlook on their season based on what they have seen so far and has high expectations. “We’ve gotten a whole lot better. Our pitchers specifically, we’ve got a lot more experience,” Klug said. “I’m excited for the year. I think we have a legitimate shot at winning State.”
Soccer practices teamwork John Rockey staff writer
Sophomore Justin Misquez swings to hit the ball in practice last week at City park. He was one of 36 players who tried out. Danielle Cook, photographer
provement and the achieving of goals. “Practice is key; I encourage the boys to go out and practice on their own.” Despite all the changes to the way tryouts are happening this year and in the previous seasons, Kipp wants this tennis season to be a fun challenge for his players. “I played for MHS, and I
played for K-State and I just enjoy the game and I enjoy watching the students enjoy it as well,” he said. Kipp says the results from tryouts will be around just before spring break. The first boys Varsity tennis match will be on March 26 at Washburn Rural, and the first boys J.V. match will be on March 28 in Abilene.
I think we are all excited for the start of the season, and we are ready to perform at a very high level.” With such a large group, Jesse Woodard, head coach, believes that more athletes means more talent. “We have a great mix of experienced returners and some younger athletes that are ready to learn,” Woodard said. “I think that’s the fun part. I know what I am going to get from a lot of our seniors, but it’s always interesting to see some of our younger athletes step into their own, learn the system and find success.” The boys Track and Field team are looking for their sixth consecutive League title
this season. The girls have been League champions the past four years, and would like to make it five this year. Last year, the team had two State champions in individual events, but both have graduated. This year, the team would like the add to that mark. “It’s tough to replace some of our graduated players,” Woodard said. “But we have a lot of talent this year, and it is exciting to see both our seniors and younger athletes step up and improve.” The boys and girls both open the season this Thursday at the Topeka West Invitational.
Tryouts having ended and the season officially started. The Lady Indians Soccer team will have their first competition Thursday against Topeka High, after starting practice last week. Numerous players having been injured, so the season was started with finding out which players were able to play different positions. The team has already proven they are flexible, meeting those goals and started off with practice. They drilled on different techniques that help them control and pass the ball while managing to move and control. A big focus was put on the girls playing for each
other and helping out to pass the ball. Most of their games are possession based, so their handling and passing drills will help to win those games. “We started out practicing harder than other seasons, but we’ve still got a long way to go,” sophomore Molly Fiser said. Some of the senior and junior players have been able to play together for a number of years and they now get the opportunity to help the new players. “We’ve played together for so long as a ‘deep’ team as coach [Sanchez] calls it and we all have the goal of going to State,” junior Emma Samenus said. Their biggest challenge of the season will be the players
that face injuries this season. “Some people have been recovering, but there’s Kristen Thompson and Hannah Livsey who are going to be out for the season,” Samenus said. The injuries have the team looking to fill in and compete at different positions. Team chemistry has enabled the players to take on the challenge of playing in a whole new position in the upcoming game against Topeka High. From there on, the team will practice all through Spring Break and then start the season off with games against Trinity Academy on March 25 and then Topeka West on March 27.
Track prepares for first meet Softball practices basics Tre Fuentes staff writer Spring tryouts for the Manhattan High Track team are in the books. As with any season, the team has a mix of young and old runners and athletes who are ready to represent Manhattan’s reputation as being one of the premier Track and Field teams in the state. Sophomore Chris Martin is one of 150 track athletes that are anxiously awaiting their first meet that takes place in only two days. “Tryouts went well. There is so much to look forward to,” Martin said. “All of us are working as hard as we can, and we get along so well.
Swimming heads to invitational Derrek Williams staff writer Manhattan High girls swim team gets ready to take part in their first swim meet of the year on Wednesday and Thursday. After how the season had went last year, the coaches are hoping to be able to start the season off strong. Although more swimmers joined the team after practice already started, and the team is not as big as it was last year, but a lot of the swimmers this year have experience from swimming last year or swimming with the Manhattan Marlins during the off season.
“We are a strong team and a lot of returning swimmers,” head coach Jerry Carpenter said. “We had a lot of girls who were doing year-round swimming with the Marlins, so they are coming into this without us needing to get them started which helps us out.” The team’s first meet starts at 4 p.m. and is a swimming and diving meet that is being held in Emporia. The swim meet is an invitational, which means that only a few schools can go and that they can only bring the better swimmers. Since some of the swimmers get to go they get an advan-
tage over the swimmers that will not go because they will have the experience of getting their first swim meet of the season out of the way and get better used to the feel. However, the swimmers who do not go get an extra week to get their technique down and practice an extra week before their first meet. “We have a lot of new swimmers and our times trials showed our girls have a lot of potential and will start off strong, and I am hoping to get under thirty [seconds] in my fifty freestyle,” senior Meagan Williams said.
Maddy Sparks staff writer
After working hard at tryouts, the Manhattan High School softball team is ready for practice, and for a new season. Approximately 30 girls tried out for the 2013 season. At tryouts the girls had to run through the basics: throwing, hitting, running drills, slid-
ing and diving. “Tryouts went good,” senior Kori Bridegam said. “A lot more girls tried out, and since the weather was nice, we got to go outside earlier than we have before.” The first day of practice consisted of a scrimmage between the team and learning the batting order. The team practices their batting, throw-
ing and other basics of softball. “I really want to have good team chemistry and keep everyone included in what we do,” Bridegam said. “I think the biggest goal for this year is to have more wins, and to make it to State.” The teams’ first games are on March 26 against Wichita Northwest and Derby.
Golf returns five lettermen Alan Brown staff writer Now that the tryout period has ended, the Manhattan High Golf team has concluded who will be a part of the team for the upcoming season. The Indians are now busy preparing for their upcoming events. “We have lots of kids with experience this year,” coach Brad Ficke said. “There are five returning lettermen and one senior on the varsity team.” During the tryouts, the coaches take many characteristics into account when determining the best team setup. The participants take part in three rounds, while they are judged by the effectiveness of
their swing, knowledge of the course, and their final score. The player’s future potential is also a key factor when selections are made. This year, the team consists of 12 J.V. players and six varsity players. “During tryouts, we try to determine two things about the players,” Ficke said. “Are ready to play? If so, should they be placed on the J.V. or on the varsity team?” As MHS looks to get back into the swing of the season, the Indians will be focusing on the fundamentals in practice. This means improving their putting and accuracy. The golf season is very short, so often practice time is rare. Improving is difficult with such a short time period, so players
Athlete of the Week Liz Logback Features Editor
Annie Roberson
City at Cathy Roe’s Ultimate Dance competition. Roberson was offered a scholarship to dance at a summer program for her outstanding performance. The studio walked away with several judge’s awards, all superior ratings, and a couple of first and second placings.
Q: Why is being a member Senior Annie Roberson has been dancing all of her life and joined the Washington Dance Studio’s dance team, Senior Company, her freshman year. This past weekend Washington Dance Studio competed in Kansas
of your studio’s dance team important to you? Dancing is such a big part of my life and I love being able to spend time with other girls who its also a big part of their life and they’re all just so awesome and we’re just one big family and it’s the highlight of my week for sure.
A:
are encouraged to practice on their own whenever they can. Harsh weather can also act as an adversary, making practicing outside nearly impossible at times. Even with these challenges, the team still has the potential for a special season. “For the J.V. team, we hope that everyone gains valuable experience and confidence throughout the season,” Ficke said. “As for varsity team, we are focusing on winning the Regional and League competitions as well as place in the top five at State.” The J.V. team will participate in their first competition in Topeka on March 26. It will be followed by the varsity’s first meet on April 1 in Salina.
Q:
How does it feel when you were selected for a scholarship at competition? I wasn’t really expecting that but they said my name and I was like ‘oh wait, what?’ We only have small parts with like small solos in them so I didn’t know that it would give me the recognition to get that honor but I’m really excited.
A:
Q: What is the hardest thing about dance? A: The hardest thing
is when you are hurting and you are sore and you just have to keep pushing through it and get that little ounce of perfection. You work all year to be perfect for three minutes on stage and once you are done, you just have to leave it all there.
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Features
March 12, 2013
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Advanced art special selection Julith Perry Staff Writer Surrounded by sophomores and juniors, Arica Christian stood out at the annual art expressions trip to Kansas City as one of the few seniors there. Christian was invited by her Photography teacher Darren Allman. “It was an honor to get invited, I wasn’t expecting it and I will be forever thankful to Mr. Allman for inviting me,” Christian said. The students were transported back into time as they soaked in the art in all the different rooms. “Every time I went into a room I felt like I was in that time period, like I was one of the people living that lifestyle, “ Christian said. “I wouldn’t take this experience back for anything.” Seeing the numerous art pieces in the museums taught the students a lot. “It was a Julith Perry, photographer
Students of the month
wonderful experience. Seeing all the different art taught me a lot about the different cultures in the world,” Ceramics 2 student Miranda Hemmert said. The opportunity to attend this trip was very prestigious because art teachers were only allowed to invite 12 students each. “A lot of the kids that got invited will be taking advanced art classes next year,” Ceramics teacher Sara Rempel said. “[I] thought it was a good experience for the kids. They go see what museums want for art and it also reinforces what we teach.” While in KC, the selected students and their teachers visited The Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art and The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, with lunch and dinner breaks in between. “I was impressed how long the kids spent soaking in the art,” art department head Sonda Copeland said. “They seemed to really enjoy it.”
Sitting in Stereotypes
Rotary clu b: Claire Freeby
Jonathan Taylor Liz Logback Features Editor
O ptimist Clu b:
A Rejoice Bryant
Dre’vel Taylor
lthough she has lived in the United States her entire life, junior Fernanda Lopez has always been immersed in Mexican culture. Growing up in a small Texan town where “everyone knows everyone,” Lopez made some of her best childhood memories. She’s fond of the large house she used to live in with a yard big enough for her and her 10 siblings to have fun in. “Just running around outside and playing games in the big yard are some of my favorite memories,” Lopez said. From a young age, though, Lopez learned about the harsh racial misconceptions
people have. “The hardest thing to overcome has been the stereotypes and beliefs everyone has about me because I’m Mexican or Hispanic,” Lopez said. Her parents, both originally from Mexico, find it important to keep their heritage close and around their children. As a result, Lopez didn’t learn English until third grade, from her mother’s hopes that Mexican culture would stay a strong influence in Fernanda’s life. Today, Lopez feels her family is still strongly influenced by Mexican culture. “My family is very centered in their culture. We aren’t very Americanized yet. My mom will only watch the Spanish channel and refuses to go out to the movies and things like that,” Lopez said.
When Lopez was younger, she would visit Mexico often to see extended family, but when things became more dangerous, her family stopped traveling across the border. And while Lopez’s family feels physically safe in the United States, stereotypes and misconceptions have been hard to avoid. “In Texas, my teacher made a comment during parentteacher conferences on how I had ‘good grades at the time but I probably wouldn’t be able to keep that up because I was Mexican and Mexicans don’t have a bright future’,” Lopez said. And while she hasn’t experienced such blatant discrimination in Kansas, Lopez feels that stereotypes are something that will happen her entire life. “I don’t consider what other
people think important,” she said. “My parents just tell me I shouldn’t care about what other people think about me.” Lopez is planning on graduating at the end of this school semester, a year before normal graduation. She has been accepted to K-State where she will major in accounting and is confident that being a year younger than everyone else won’t be an extra challenge. “I think it will be different but I see it to my advantage. If you start earlier you can finish earlier,” Lopez said. “High school wasn’t the easiest for me because I didn’t get along with a lot of people. So I’m ready to close this chapter and start a new one.”
Poet on the rise For those who ascend the cloud-filled skies: Dreams will be tendrils that lure and bind... Nightmares come to those that do not rise. Kayla Dieker Copy Editor Some people struggle to find that one thing they’re really good at. Senior Ivan Lehmer didn’t realize he had a talent for poetry until he decided to write and recite a poem for last year’s “America’s Got Special Talent” show put on by the Interpersonal Skills class. “I was really surprised by how many people liked the poem I did,” Lehmer said. “I wasn’t a writer at all prior to that point, so it was kind of like ‘Hey, I have a talent!’ so I kept writing and continue to write today.” Ideas for Lehmer’s poems come from a variety of places, and each poem is different. “A magician never reveals his tricks. Luckily, I’m
not a magician,” he joked. “Unfortunately there is no elaborate process to my writing. Each poem has its own little story as far as conception is concerned. Sometimes it’s a passing thought that sparks it; sometimes a story I’ve read or a recent event in my life.” Like his ideas, the amount of poems Lehmer produces and the amount of time spent on them varies. “I probably write about two poems per week, but I throw out most of the poems I write,” he said. Despite being his own harshest critic, he rarely stops writing. “I once wrote six poems in about two days and I went for a few months without writing more than one or two. It’s sporadic.” Each poem takes a different amount of time, and some never get finished.
“I still have about four or five unfinished writings sitting on my computer, which have been sitting for probably months,” Lehmer said. Lehmer’s poetry has transformed into rap, which he performed at this year’s “America’s Got Special Talent.” Recently, he put a preview of one of his works on his YouTube channel. Currently, he is working on several different projects. “At the moment I’m working on two rap songs and then I’m also working on a poem to read at Key Club’s District Convention in a talent competition,” Lehmer said. “Soon I’ll be starting to work on poems for ‘This is How I Scream;’ going to try to do two or three for that.”
Going somewhere fun for spring break? Take a picture of yourself and the Mentor on vacation and send it to mhsmentor@gmail.com or post it on our facebook page to be entered into a prize drawing!
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The MENTOR
March 12, 2013
Trending
New ‘Oz’ film enjoyable, unessential Sam Raimi’s “Oz the Great and Powerful,” from David Lindsay-Abaire’s screenplay, is yet another tack-on to L. Frank Baum’s “Wizard of Oz.” The narrative is no outrageous update to the story everyone knows, chronicling a fairly extraordinary carnival magician named Oscar’s (Oz for short) journey from our world into the land of Oz, to which he of course arrives by hot air balloon sucked up by a tornado. Once landing in Oz, he is greeted by a beautiful witch
named Theodora who informs Oscar he has fulfilled a prophecy and is here to become the King of Oz. She clearly takes a non-mutual fancy to “the wizard,” and there is something very creepy about her innocent, blind devotion to this con-man who just fell out of the sky. He accompanies her to the Emerald City and meets her sister, the cold and calculating Evanora. They tell him he must kill the Wicked Witch and destroy her wand, the key to her power. Oscar ventures to her realm, the Dark Forest, and meets a few friends along the way. It doesn’t take them long to realize they’ve been tricked, and this “Wicked Witch” is really the good Glinda. Theodora and Evanora are watching in their crystal ball the entire time, and when Theodora sees Oscar’s allegiances have changed, she becomes enraged, morphing
into the universally recognized, green-skinned Wicked Witch of the West. I must note that, while watching this movie, my antiMichelle Williams crusade continued at the rate of a flying monkey. I don’t know what it is, but I absolutely loathe this actress, and in my opinion she made a pretty dread-
ful Glinda. However, she was slightly less obnoxious than in other films like “Blue Valentine,” “Brokeback Mountain,” “Synecdoche, NY,” “Meek’s Cutoff” and the insufferable
John’s Hits and Misses
“Take This Waltz.” It seems that this woman curses each movie she appears in, and I know I’ll alienate a lot of other cinephiles when I say “Oz” is one of my least-hated Williams flicks. Williams actually isn’t the worst casting decision; that award belongs to Mila Kunis as the iconic Wicked Witch. Kunis is so illsuited for the role, o n e w o n d e r s how she was ever e v e n c o n sidered for it. Her speaking voice alone dispels any hope of echoing the great Margaret Hamilton in Victor Fleming’s 1939 classic original version. Its girly, high-pitched tone
Hit: March Madness returns!
Photos courtesy of ncaa. com,us.playstation.com
Hit: Two days until spring break!
Miss: Lost an hour of sleep to daylight saving time.
Miss: Sony copies Nintendo’s “gimmick” Wii U controller.
Sisters of Sound a safe haven on ‘Fake Patty’s Day’ Naomi McClendon Entertainment Editor Amongst the hordes of drunken, green-clad hooligans at Aggieville’s “Fake Patty’s Day” last Saturday was a single place of refuge, good deals and good music -- Sisters of Sound Records. Every year, instead of closing down their store during what they call “The Drunken Festival,” the owners of S.O.S, Sarah and Leah Cunnick, host a “Shaun of the Dead” sale. Customers who come in
receive not only 20 percent off their purchase, but also a safe-haven amongst the crazy crowds and the chance to see the store’s owner dressed as Shaun of the Dead. “Most stores in Aggieville close for Fake Patty’s, but as a record store, we can’t afford to be closed on a weekend,” owner Leah Cunnick said. “So we like to be here for a safe haven for people, you know. If you get past all the drunken green zombies, you get the reward of a safe environment. And 20 percent off.”
Fake Patty’s Day makes for an interesting day for Aggieville business owners. “I haven’t killed anyone yet, so that’s good,” Cunnick joked. “But we have to deal with a lot of drunks and a lot of really bad outfits. It’s fashion disaster entertainment.” Instead of being angry at rowdy drunk college kids, the ladies at S.O.S find them amusing. “For us it becomes a ‘drinks-and-a-show’ type thing,” Cunnick said. “It’s like yeah, I remember my first beer.”
Coming up at McCain Seth Runyan Staff Writer
The Celtic Tenors Date: March 15 The most prominent classical crossover group to ever come out of Ireland brings their presence to Manhattan. Group members Daryl Simpson, James Nelson and Matthew Gilsenan bring their revolutionary style to the classical stage for a tenor group with a more contemporary edge. With songs such as “When Irish Eyes Are Smiling” and “Will Ye Go Lassie Go” and top chart hits in the U.S. and the world, "The Celtic Tenors" is a performance to please everyone.
Photos courtesy of celtic-tenors. com, alisonbolsom.com and mummenschanz.com
Mummenschanz Date: Today After more than 40 years of enertaining audiences around the world, “Mummenschanz” brings its act to McCain’s Performance Series. The masters of Swiss mask play, “Mummenschanz” uses all sorts of objects to completely change the act of mime art. The group will entertain the audience with unique forms of puppetry, dance and theater while bringing outstanding characters to life. This is a show to not miss out on. Alison Balsom and the Scottish Ensemble Date: April 9 The first Briton artist to be crowned “Female Artist of the Year” in 2009, Alison Balsom brings her classical talent to the Little Apple. Balsom has earned herself the reputation of being one of the most renowned classical artists with awards from Classic FM, Gramophone and Echo Klassik. With music from “Handel” to “Bach," Alison and the Scottish Ensemble will bring back the wonderful classical music to McCain Auditorium.
Most of it works very well: Oscar’s friends (the china doll, the winged monkey, the Tinkerer and Knuck) are all endearing and hilarious. The visuals, even if some feel as if they were only made for 3D (I saw it in 2D), are quite lovely. I respect the way Raimi is not trying to pull the rug out of Baum’s work like Gregory Maguire’s “Wicked” does, instead paying tribute through subtle allusions. I have remained a huge fan of Raimi’s work throughout
each stage of his very odd career -- “The Evil Dead” trilogy, the hugely underrated “Drag Me to Hell,” the first two “Spider-Man” films, the sublime “A Simple Plan” -- but not since “Spider-Man 3” have I been so curious why he chose to take on a project as I was after “Oz.” It has lots of great Raimi moments, and James Franco is perfect for the part of the Wizard, but it is a surprisingly not bold move for a usually very bold director to revisit an ageold fairy tale. Nonetheless, “Oz the Great and Powerful” is an enjoyable, reasonably well-made film. At the end of the day, though, it feels relatively unessential. Photos courtesy of disney.go.com
Memes part of popular culture Tre Fuentes Staff Writer
Hit: Perfect weather for track season.
does not fit the cackle that follows it, obviously someone else doing it in her place.
If you have used the Internet, there is a good chance that in the countless amount of time spent updating your Facebook status, following your favorite celebrities on Twitter or checking out videos on YouTube, you’ve probably come across a meme at one point or another. Memes started out as a way to kill time on the Internet, but recent success has skyrocketed some of the most famous memes into worldwide fame. When Brian Bundesen discovered his cat had an unusual habit of frowning, he took to his camera and began uploading the pictures to the Internet with funny captions. It soon became a sensation, as Grumpy Cat now owns its own cat brand, has been flown first class, and it has its own chauffeured vehicle. The lucky owners of Grumpy Cat are getting paid five figures for the cat brand, and that number is expected to climb into six figures in less than six months. The cat also has its
own personal assistant, who is making a living off of grooming and feeding the cat. The overly-attached girlfriend meme started out when Laina Walker did a parody of Justin Bieber’s “Boyfriend” called “Girlfriend.” Within 48 hours the video received over
Photo courtesy of grumpycat.com
1.35 million views. In three days’ time, Walker accumulated over 7,800 Twitter followers and 16,500 likes on Facebook. Walker is now a YouTube and Internet sensation who creates more memes, such as the misunderstood girlfriend and makes enough profit that a lot
of her proceeds go to charity organizations. A lot of memes are generating worldwide popularity, but none may be bigger than the Gangnam Style meme, created from the music video. The meme has generated more than $600,000 in profit and has become so massive, it has doubled the stock value of DI Corp, a business run by Psy’s father, the artist who created Gangnam Style. Memes are doing more than just making profit. They are revolutionizing social media, trends, and are dominating the internet. Even within Manhattan High, memes are a popular topic that attract people’s attention. Sophomore Zach Salem has caught on with the recent trend and spends his spare time creating memes and uploading them to the Internet. “Memes reflect a lot of our pop culture today,” Salem said. “If you have a favorite TV show or movie, there are memes for it, and it is interesting to see other people’s ideas and thoughts about different topics.”