M the MENTOR
April 2, 2013
Manhattan High School, Manhattan, Kan.
News Volume 100 issue 21
‘Salute to Broadway’ debuts
Thespian men perform a song from “Book of Mormon” at Salute to Broadway. Senior Pat Zenk proceeded to reveal a surprise banana from his pocket. For more indepth coverage, go to page 3. John Rockey, photographer
19 journalism students move on to State KSPA Sarah Shi News Editor Nineteen Manhattan High Kansas Scholastic Press Association regional qualifiers will go to State May 4 to compete in their selected event -- the most in at least a decade. KSPA Regionals was scheduled for Feb. 21, but due to the decision to close Kansas State University campus that day due to weather, a total of 36 MHS journalism students competed in an off-site area, the Little Theatre, on Feb. 25. Compared to recent years, 19 qualifiers is a significant increase. In 2010 with only five students qualified and out of those, only one student placed at State. In 2011, nine students qualified and one placed at State. Last year, 10 students placed at Regionals -- two of them first places -- and senior Kayla Dieker placed sixth at State in editing. Weeks prior to the competition, students brushed up on their writing and editing skills. “I had them practice their
writing in the same environment that the testing would be like. We also worked on our lede writing, knowing how to use sources, sifting through extra information and writing under limited time,” journalism adviser Kristy Nyp said. Only having 90 minutes to completely write a story made the competition more challenging. “I was definitely nervous at the beginning because we were kind of stressed for time,” junior Kennedy Felice said. “But after awhile the instincts kicked in and I just started writing.” Before Regionals, the students were assigned a specific categories of journalistic writing to compete in, such as Newspaper Sports Writing, Editorial Cartoon, Cutline Writing, etc. In addition, there were also carry-in submissions, or categories that required the student to create a yearbook/ newspaper layout design or take a picture under a set of guidelines and submit their work for judging.
For junior Kelsey Crawford, it was a surprise to find out she placed third in Yearbook Layout. “I was really happy because I did the layout by myself. I was really surprised, too, because I thought I wouldn’t win something but I did.” But for junior Chris Klug, the competition did not go the way he was expecting. “I didn’t like it because I was told I would be given a sport to write about and I didn’t get a sport,” he said of his writing prompt about a football cheering section for Yearbook Sports Writing. “And I was pressured for time.” Next year, Nyp hopes that more students will place and place higher at Regionals. “That’s the only goal for us,” Nyp said. “I really like getting the students involved in something like this. They get to experience different things than just newspaper or yearbook publication. It allows them to compare themselves not only to themselves but to other people.”
Dreiling shares his story of success
Weather station finds place at MHS Seth Runyan Staff Writer Weather is the one word many Kansans come to fear. To Manhattan High School science teacher Charles Mamalo, it’s a very practical thing to know. Especially at MHS. A weather station was purchased for the school in September, and it is now finally up and running. The station took four months to install due to complications with placement and other concerns. It is also part of the Davis Vantage Pro2 series, which does not come cheap. “The weather station costs around $2,000. The science department and the school’s capital outlay helped purchase the station,” Mamolo said. The new weather station is not only to give a current forecast of the MHS area. “The purpose of this is mainly to allow the Atmosphere and Space class utilize an instrument to make use and study the weather,” Mamolo said. “We teach science by looking at data and measuring, which is what this station will help do. It’s a completely different See Weather, page 7
Physics teacher Charles Mamolo checks on the weather station. Its main purpose is to allow the Atmosphere and Space class to study weather. Seth Runyan, photographer
AP Bio explores Wichita Zoo Seth Runyan Staff Writer
Dave Dreiling, founder and owner of GTM Sports, speaks at a Brown Bag Lunch Series on Thursday, March 28. Dreiling discussed his business career and path to success. Courtesy Photo showing the truth in business nights. John Riforgiate “When you have your own and giving students new ideas Staff Writer business, it just kind of con- about careers they hadn’t thought of pursuing before. Even as a child, inexpe- sumes you,” Dreiling said. Dreiling shared the story of Dreiling is the founder and rienced with the matters of his success in entrepreneurowner of GTM Sports, a nathe world, Dave Dreiling was ship and the steps he took to tional sportswear store, and already learning the tips and tricks of business. His parents was the guest speaker at the get there. It all started with a sweatowned a local clothing store Brown Bag Lunch Series last in Concordia, and Dreiling week. BBLS is sponsored by shirt Dreiling’s fraternity house would hear about the business Career and Technical Edu- was buying. At that time, the See Dreiling, page 7 around the dinner table most cation and is dedicated to
Clu b Notes SADD Students Against Destructive Decisions hosted their officer elections for the 20132014 school year last Thursday. Alyssa Frey, who was previously vice president, was elected president. Janelle Collado took Frey’s position as vice president. Haili Bonner was elected secretary and K.B. Dickson was elected treasurer. “I felt really nervous (leading up to the election) and anyone I saw in SADD I would
say, ‘Vote for me,’” Frey said. “(After the election I felt) relieved, excited and ready for next year.” Frey, who will be taking over after outgoing president Dre’Vel Taylor, said she hopes “to get more people involved and do more things throughout the community” during her tenure as president. She hopes to continue SADD’s tradition of Spring Fling, Camp Leadership and sales of popcorn, as well as keeping alive the traditions she plans on
starting a partnership with Boys and Girls Club to help with the green house. -Connor Bliss
Key Club Key Club traveled to Wichita for their District Convention over Spring Break. Overall nine of members went to DCON from March 15 to 17. “This is the first year we went,” secretary Siera Haug said. DCON was held in conjunction with the overall Kiwanis Club elections, and all Kansas schools with Key Clubs were invited to attend the
The Manhattan High School Advanced Placement Biology class recently had an opportunity to go behind the scenes at the Wichita Zoo. “They show us how they feed the animals and even how they keep their tigers and other animals trained,” MHS science teacher Pat Lamb said. Lamb teaches the class and has been taking the AP Bio class to the zoo in Wichita for ever since he learned a former student became the animal curator. The class goes to the workshops and public speakers that provided ideas for improvement. Although some members said that overall the DCON experience was not fulfilling, they did learn things they could use to improve upcoming service activities. “We all learned something for the workshops for our club,” historian Baili Rowe said. In the district Key Club elections, Rowe and sophomore Lisa Zhu ran for positions. The girls had to go through caucuses and two members from each school voted. Although Zhu did not get a position, Rowe got Lieu-
zoo in the spring while they are on their zoology section. The trip helps them gain a better understanding of how zoos work and maintain their animals. Mike Quick, who is a former student of Lamb, is the curator of the animals. When the students arrived, Quick took them around the zoo and showed them the “behind the scenes.” Lamb eventually lets his students loose in the zoo, but not without an assignment. “We do a little worksheet,” Lamb said. “They get into groups of four and find their best mammal, bird, amphibian and reptile.” Once each
student has these categories filled, they determine each animals special adaptations. Then, the groups determine their best animal for each category and Lamb grades from what they chose. MHS senior Sophie Wang likes the fact that Lamb keeps them busy because it gives them other things to do other than taking pictures and talking. A great experience such as this comes at a great cost, however. “Any field trip is a huge expense. It has to be worth the money,” Lamb said. The trip had great financial
tenant Governor of District 4. The position is the overall president for locations of Junction City, Manhattan and Riley County. “I was really excited that I got the position of Lieutenant Governor of District 4,” Rowe said. “It is going to be a great opportunity.” -Dheepthi Perumal
iledge to do. Haug recently got elected as the 2013-14 FCCLA Vice President of Public Relations for Kansas. Though she is unsure of what her responsibilities will entail, she knows that the position will “be a lot of work but it’ll still be fun.” The process to becoming a state officer is not an easy task. First, the FCCLA member has to be elected as a district officer and then it is decided if you go onto state. Once you make it to the state level, you must write a letter, take a quiz over FCCLA facts, give a speech and then take See Club Notes, page 7
FCCLA As just a sophomore, Siera Haug is filling a position as a state officer for Family Career and Community Leaders of America that only eight students in Kansas get the priv-
See Zoo, page 7
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the MENTOR
April 2, 2013
American mass media exaggerates left/right wing divide Ben Shields
editor-in-chief
I’m a huge cable news fan. All three networks -- MSNBC, CNN and Fox -- are a significant part of my media consumption (Fox the least so; I prefer talk radio). I love mass media, and when I’ve listened to speakers either from the print branch or retired from the industry, I hear a very out-of-touch group of people whenever they mourn the loss of the old days when there was no opinion in the news. Perhaps there is something to that argument, but disparaging MSNBC and Fox has become such a cliche point that repeating it is symptomatic of a stunted imagination. The anti-cable news crowd critiques it from the outside. On the other hand allow me, as a fan, to critique it from within. Why do I value the right
of the press to present opinions alongside reporting of the news? On principal, I am against censoring the media in any way. The Fairness Doctrine, repealed under Ronald Reagan, required broadcasts to provide contrasting views. As a libertarian Democrat, I oppose measures to control how the press handles reporting, though I do believe in basic standards in regards to fact-checking and accuracy. But again, this is not the government’s job to regulate. Media can keep itself in check through a variety of sources and points of view. Repealing the Fairness Doctrine has given rise to many of the best radio and TV programs in the country, such as “The Rush Limbaugh Show” and “Up With Chris Hayes,” two radically different shows that offer an equally invaluable intellec-
tual service. But the negative impacts of modern American mass media are impossible to overlook. Consider a quote by Walter Pater: “What we have to do is to be forever curiously testing new opinions and courting new impressions.” In theory, this is an easier philosophy to live by now than ever before. Lately, I’ve even been listening to more right-wing commentators than left; why watch Al Sharpton and nod my head, “yeah, yeah, yeah,” for an hour when there are other perspectives out there by smart conservatives like Ben Stein who will offer me new ideas? But the reality is that’s not the norm. Head-nodding is what seems to be the most desirable way to get the news nowadays. Paradoxically, this has been made possible by an explosion of diversity of opin-
“Our culture has become so absolutist that folks don’t even realize they’re being duped.”
ion. You’re either team Fox or team MSNBC (or that guy/gal everyone hates who proudly announces they ONLY watch CNN since they’re a moderate). American media has exaggerated the myth of the leftright divide in this country. Americans are not as divided as media and politicians want us to believe. Not everything fits that paradigm so perfectly, but our culture has become so absolutist that folks don’t even realize they’re being duped. Like Pavlov’s dogs, we’re conditioned to loathe any reporter if the logo on the bottom of the screen is not of a network with our own political agenda. Rather than, say, listening to Fox’s Chris Wallace, a truly excellent interviewer, as he sits down with Nancy Pelosi or Wayne LaPierre, liberals simply bark, “Yuck!” The opposite holds true for Rachel Maddow, the smartest person in prime time cable news. This is the problem with American mass media: it has become easier than any other time in this country to find a political niche and never leave it. Defy the artificial left/right divide and think for yourself.
Opinions
Short people are just like you and I Nastajja Rivera Staff writer “Shorty, short stack, shrimp, smurf” and so on are usually the basic names short people get called. How do I know this? Well it’s simple: I’m 5 feet tall and let’s just say I’m tiny for a senior in high school. Many people think it’s fun to pick on the short people because they aren’t tall enough. For example someone grabs the short person’s cell phone and say “I bet you can’t reach it!” and while saying this they put it on the highest place so you wouldn’t be able to reach it. While they are laughing you’re jumping and get aggravated. Another thing short people have a problem with is when people tend to not take them seriously. Just like many people have big dreams and goals, short people have more
of a problem reaching them and it’s mainly because people think that just because you’re small you won’t go very far in life. My big goal and dream is to become a physical therapist. Yes, I have heard “you’re too small to be lifting someone who may need assistance.” What I have learned from hearing all this negativity about being short and how I wouldn’t be able to do this is that it doesn’t stop me from achieving my big dreams and goals. It may hurt to hear it but don’t think of it as a weight bearing you down, short people. Think of it more as a motivation to not only prove them wrong but to know that you did it. No matter how small someone is don’t doubt them because they can surprise you.
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 mhsmentoropinions@gmail. com. Staff meetings take place every five-day school week on Tuesday’s during fourth hour. Anyone is invited to come pitch ideas.
T he beauty myth Danielle Cook
staff writer
Almost everyone, especially in middle school, high school and college, is affected by the fact that our society puts such an emphasis on relationships and being wanted. Mostly, it’s discussed as a girl’s desire to be what’s seen in today’s world beautiful. We all know society’s image of beauty is distorted, but that doesn’t mean our own ideas of what the word beautiful Halsey Camera, cartoonist
truly means have to be distorted, too. Do you consider yourself truly beautiful? If you don’t, then I seriously suggest you take another good look at yourself. Reevaluate yourself from your own point of view, as opposed to what you believe others find attractive. Yeah, you might not be a Victoria’s Secret model or Jessica Alba, but who, besides our entertainment and commercialbased society, says you have to look like a super-model or an actress to feel beautiful? And as word with deep meaning, beautiful can be a universal term as well -- sort of. We usually don’t use the word beautiful to describe a guy, but it’s the same concept. Who says you have to look like Channing Tatum to feel attractive? Typically, people don’t think of guys as creatures who care too much about their appearances, but
Memes destructively homogenize culture, kill creativity Zane Hayden Guest writer Once upon a time, when people still used email for most of their online communication, there was a little prank people would play. Attached to a sensationalist headline of “Cure for Cancer discovered!” or “Incredible basketball who!” there would be a URL attached that would lead to the exact opposite, a music video of an okayish ‘80s song performed by Rick Astley; in other words, the Rickroll. The Rickroll, the act of performing a bait-and-switch by providing a link to the video, became one of the first widely-known Internet memes. The thing was, though, the Rickroll wasn’t the first meme, nor was it the last. In fact, memes had their start long before, and actually had nothing to do with Al Gore’s series of tubes in the first place.
A meme is a reference to a piece of culture, which can be communicated to another human being by any means, through gestures, speech, you name it. An inside joke within a sports team is an example of a meme. A member of a sports team could walk up to you and say something and you would probably not understand, yet they could do the same with a teammate, and arch their eyebrows, have a good chuckle, and be on their merry way. But therein lies the problem: someone would probably feel left out of the joke for not understanding its context. Nobody likes being left out of anything; it’s human nature to want to fit in. But when we have these mass social media sites such as Twitter or Reddit, these memes have the potential to spread far and wide beyond the meaning and context of their original communities. Remember “Arrow in the
Knee,” that cute little blurb from Skyrim? It would have been perfectly acceptable if the only people who knew about it were, you know, the game’s intended audience, fans of the Elder Scrolls series and the wider audience Bethesda hoped to capture. But thanks to social sites like Reddit, the line was repeated ad nauseam, and inserted into any possible context people could think of, which means you got to see and hear “Arrow in the Knee” whether you liked it or not, and after seeing an “Arrow to the Knee” comment on every YouTube video for the next three months, chances are that you got sick of it. Nobody sets out to create memes; they set out to create content for the sake of creating it, whether it’s intended to reach an audience or not. Anyone who claims to “create memes” is only deluding themselves into thinking their unoriginal content churned
from sites like memegenerator and rage maker is actually good. The worst things about these mass-produced memes that appear on Facebook and 9GAG is that they inspire a loss of creativity. Content actually based around memes is especially reprehensible; take for example the cringe-worthy references in Borderlands 2, or the fantastically unoriginal Meme Defense. It reeks of laziness and has zero artistic merit. It’s the saddest thing when the seniors of MHS create a Harlem Shake video, desperately trying to cash in what will ultimately be a short-lived fad, when instead they should be trying to create original content that stands on its own.
if you did some digging, you’d probably come to the consensus that guys have insecurities, too, because of society’s ideal image of beauty; they’re generally just better than girls at not bringing up things they don’t like about themselves in every single conversation. That being said, I suppose the way you see yourself all depends on what’s easier for you to believe -- the way you actually see yourself or the way you’re told by society’s general body image to see yourself. If you’re past the point of insecurities completely, and you’ve figured out how to have total confidence and feel absolutely comfortable in your very own skin without the shadow of a single doubt, I congratulate you. Write a book, because sadly, you’re a rarity. I’m not saying you have to have any insecurities about the way you look because of
society; if you don’t have any, then, seriously, write a book. Let everyone who doesn’t feel comfortable with himself or herself know that they should feel comfortable, and show them how to become truly beautiful in their own eyes. But most people are insecure about some aspect of their appearance, even if they don’t exactly understand it. No one is obligated by society itself to participate in today’s conformities; most people just subconsciously choose to on their own in order to avoid being outcast. But no one should feel like they would actually become socially outcast because they don’t look a certain way. Like I said, beauty is a deep word, and it’s not in society’s power to tag you as beautiful or not. You are your own definition of beautiful, so define it well.
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 meteorologist - Eli Redeker business manager - Jerry Sextro adviser -Kristy Nyp cartoonist - Halsey Camera
contributing writer - Zane Hayden 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
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April 2, 2013
S A L U T E
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Broa dway Students perform Broadway selections Ben Shields Editor-in-Chief The Thespian Club gave their regards to Broadway Thursday night with sendups to Arthur Miller, “The Wizard of Oz,” “Book of Mormon” and many others in their annual performance of Salute to Broadway. The first number was performed by the Advanced Repertory Theater class, in which they recited quotes by famous actors and playwrights like Johnny Depp and Ethel Merman. One performer, senior and Thespian president Ilana Budenosky quoted Oscar Wilde, saying, “I regard
the theatre as the greatest of all art forms, the most immediate way in which a human being can share with another the sense of what it is to be a human being.” Budenosky then performed the second number, “I’ll Cover You,” from the musical “Rent,” with senior Tyler Cochran. “I chose this song because it has really interesting harmonies that aren’t typical of a Broadway tune, even if people often think of ‘Rent’ as an obvious choice for Salute,” she said. “It’s a cute, innocent song about love.” Budenosky and Cochran prepared for the event by rehearsing for several hours last
week In addition to performing with Budenosky, Cochran accompanied several of the other numbers that night on the piano. “I like to accompany,” Cochran said. “It’s swell.” Senior Sarah Mortenson was an audience member for Salute and described the show as “very impressive.” “I had never been to Salute until this year,” she said.”I only went to see Ilana but ended up enjoying the whole thing a lot. I think it’s an underrated school event.” Seniors Tyler Cochran and Ilana Budenosky sing the duet “I’ll Cover You” from the musical “Rent.”
Spring
Senior Eman Hardy performs the song “Santa Fe” from “Newsies.” John Rockey, Photographer
Fling
Connor Bliss Trending Co-Editor This Friday’s Spring Fling hosted by Student Against Destructive Decisions is the biggest ever sponsored with 13 clubs participating. The clubs will be setting up booths of fun activities. French Club will host bingo at the event where players can win tickets to claim prizes at the prize table. Other clubs will do the same. The Black Student Union will be hosting line dancing as well. “We like participating and Spring Fling is a fun thing to do and French students like to
party just as much as anyone else,” French Club sponsor Jennifer Levy said The main draw that SADD is counting on is their new addition of laser tag, which will take place in the south gym. Spring Fling will also keep its mainstays: a carnival, DJ, dance, raffles, video games and the Independent Film Festival. This is the first year that the Spring Fling has been hosted in the new building. The new building with more space allowed for SADD to host larger events such as Laser Tag. “I think that the new building will make it even more excit-
ing,” club sponsor Kari Quiton said. Everything at the event will be free. Spring Fling still needs chaperones to attend the event and supervise. Snack donations are also still needed to keep the attendees fed. The school provides the pizza and soda will be available through the machines. “The purpose is to get kids in the school building to have a little bit of fun on Friday night. Safe, good, free fun,” Quiton said. Spring Fling is from 7 to 10 p.m. on Friday night.
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April 2, 2013
Features
A ro u n d the world i n 10 d ay s: Julith Perry Staff Writer Sunny weather, great music and spending time with your best friend. That’s what seniors Margaret Kellstrom and Kathryn Everett chose to do for Spring Break this year. The girls travelled to Dallas to see one of their favorite bands in concert, Alt-J. “We both love Alt-J and we were looking up concerts,” Everett said. “It just worked out that we could make a Spring Break trip out of it.” “The concert was in downtown Dallas and it was so cool,” Kellstrom said. “It was St. Patrick’s day so it was pretty cool being in downtown Dallas for that.” To save money, the girls decided to drive to Dallas. “The drive was totally worth it. We only spent like a $100 to $120 on gas and $20 for tickets,” Kellstrom said. “The drive wasn’t bad at all. Margaret and I took turns driving,”
Senior Anna Brokesh’s trip to Europe.
Everett said. The girls stayed with Everett’s aunt and uncle while in Dallas. “Staying with my family was great. I love my cousins,” Everett said. After the concert the girls spent a few more days in Dallas. “We went shopping, got our nails done, went to watch Kathryn’s cousin do cheerleading [and] just hung out,” Kellstrom said. Along with hanging around Dallas and getting to see one of their favorite bands in concert, spending time as best friends was a highlight of the trip. “It was all so great. I just enjoyed spending time with my best friend before we leave for our respective colleges,” Kellstrom said. For both girls this Spring Break marked their last one in high school. “It feels amazing knowing that this is my last Spring Break [in high school],” Everett said. “I’m definitely ready for college and the next chapter in my life.”
Seniors Margret Kellstrom and Kathryn Everett.
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Graphic by Naomi McClendon
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the MENTOR
Features
April 2, 2013
Spr i ng B re a k 20 13 Naomi McC le Entertainmen ndon the vacati t Editor o days on th n was a mix of e ship and the best While ma M bundled u ny students were fu exico -- both of wh days in cruise st part of the trip. Th p ic snow duri and stuck in the a ll of relaxing, han h were Cosmo a opped at ports ine n g n nd a little senior gir g spring break, six bit of partying out, The girls d Prog resso, Mexico ls and th . ’ fa in O g . n th e ship, eir moms sh were bikin ports we vorite parts of th th up the sun i-clad and soaking I ared two rooms. “ e girls the Bana re the beaches an e d The way na Bo on describe Taylor Go a cruise. “Being on at. dorm-room the rooms is like od, Kayla th e Blake s, beach was ” Good probably th Shields, “ T Fin h Miller, Bail galsen, Hannah roo ere were three peop said. trip,” Goo e best part of the e y d sa m.” le per to Smith had Snyder and Kylie just lay ou id. “It was nice t spend Spri the opportunity to w Of course, the oce “ The Ban and relax.” a n n it g h c o B m ana Boat re w e a s a k not with ves. “ Th just their fa really co wa e g best friend mily, but also their d ot pretty bad. Yo waves like tub ol,” Snyder said. “It’ s in u s. s e g fi P n c b o it ri u u e o t ly ld r with a to this, the feel it,” G girls hadn big tube, so o “ we could a really together. ’t been on a trip thThey didn’t bother od said. it.” ll fit in m ey definite ly rocked e, but “It was re It se li e tt m le yo s ally cool b in Mexico being felt si it, and some of the u a share a cru like having to ck.” girls mo friends,” S with my five best thers migh ise with their m A it h c c t have cau o sa rd id in definitely a . “It was ru g se a g re les on the to the girls, the hindrance on the g b b ir With a trip at experience.” u o ls t a ’ th t fun, w a t e st w re rict. as n pretty comes a w as exciting as this “ They mo ot the case. h o “ le T he hardest lot of plan stly just st and just a out of o ning o part ayed s “We’ve b much anticipation. thn the cruise was of being own thin ur way and did the ir p e g ro e e ,” n b fa Goo ab ct planning trip for so this 17 and that some of us we ly hung out with e d said. “ They lo n g , re ach other, for month some of u Good said we pretty s,” S and s w a countdow. “We’ve even had g mith said. “So some ere 18,” when we much only saw them e c n a t o te in u g ld o d to in in n’t g for like si the casino.” months.” When the ner.” x Despite girls did sp ti th The vaca m e e end wit dif th a short ro tion began as tr e girls didn’t separaficulties, wasn’t h their mom’s, d it ry ie te a d d . “ o to W tr r ip e fi d n ra New Orle ans, where down to Snyder jok d ways around it,” were all actually p b. “ They boarded th ed. rett Smith said e ship. A the girls . “And eve y cool,” fter that, th All of the girls ag re th n though e y were e days off e of the shipd that was definit with us, this trip ely were th an any oth a little crazier er I’ve bee n on.” Liz Logback Features Editor A
15-hour flight and 14 suitcases later, four Manhattan High students found themselves in Israel. Freshman Claire Huber, sophomores Ryan Baker and Molly Bollman, and senior Kaitlin Wichmann were greeted with signs in the Ben
Gurion airport where they met up with their tour guide for the week. “It was so cool. I felt so special to have my name on a sign,” Wichmann said. The goal of the trip was to study and explore places Jesus had been, as well as sight see and visit more touristy things. The group started the week
with a hotel that overlooked the Sea of Galilee. They crossed the sea in a wooden boat similar to that of Jesus’ time and tried fishing with nets. Although their nets came up empty, the experience proved to be a memorable one. “My most sentimental moment was the Sea of Galilee and going across the Sea. We p r a y e d and stuff,” Wichmann said. “It made me feel more connected to God and my beliefs. It’s surreal when you’re
Seniors T Shields, aylor Good, Kay B la Miller, B lake Fingalsen, H ailey Sny a nnah der and Smith Kylie
on the boat and know ‘This is where Jesus walked on water.’ It makes everything more realistic.” Huber felt similarly about the boat ride. “I felt like I really grew in my faith during that time, and the sunrise was beautiful,” she said. The Jordan River is a more memorable part of the trip for Huber. She and Bollmann renewed their baptisms in the same place Jesus was baptized. “Getting my baptism renewed in the Jordan River was so cool. I’m really glad I did it. Looking back at it now, it’s cool to think that I got baptized in the same place Jesus did,” Huber said. The group also visited the site where Jesus was born and
walked the path that Jesus carried his cross on. The spot marked as Jesus’ birthplace is controversial, but Wichmann feels whether it is the actual location or not, the meaning behind it is still real for her. “We touched Jesus’ manger. It was really enlightening to touch the place where Jesus was supposedly born,” she said. The path the group followed in accordance to Jesus’ walk with the cross was different than what they were expecting. It traveled through a marketplace, where there weren’t many Christians. And a lot of the people tried to sell things to the group. Along the path were 14 markers explaining Jesus’ trek and what happened at
each location. Once the group came to the end, they entered a large church where they viewed Jesus’ tomb. “I was surprised to see that it was in the middle of the city with street vendors, shops and homes all around it. But the next week when we read that scripture in church I had a much clearer vision of what it looked like,” Huber said. Coming home from the trip, Wichmann will look at the Christian holidays differently after visiting the places they originate from. “When I think about Easter and Christmas, I will always remember my trip now. The holidays just mean more to me,” she said.
between all of us. We had family dinners together every night and stuff like that brought us together,” Wirsen said. Something Wirsen was not expecting during the trip was getting a little taste of his home, Munester, Germany, in Disney’s theme park Epcot. Epcot has small replicas of other countries with food and souvenirs native to the country. “It was funny. It was very stereotypical. Everyone was wearing old time clothing like lederhosen, but it was a lot like what Americans think Germany looks like, but it really doesn’t look like that,”
Wirsen said. Wirsen tried speaking German with a few of the workers, but for the most part “wanted to blend in.” But there was no blending in when he found the food and candy native to his home country. “I was so excited. It was really nice to eat candy and food from home. I haven’t eaten much of it this year,” Wirsen said. Going home was the hardest part for Wirsen, figuratively and literally. “I was sad. It was a fun week. We bought a lot of stuff too so it was hard to pack up to go home. My suitcase wouldn’t close,” he said. “This was definitely a highlight of my year,” he said.
Freshman Claire Huber, sophomores Ryan Baker and Molly Bollman and senior Kaitlin Wichmann and their group in Israel.
s by f the park o t u o e b palm to nceta said. there were ore midnight,” La to Benjamin, s, u b e th ff m o got o According transported out und,” soph ees all aro njamin said. tr eing to k o o C e e aft r b y World and back w th Danielle otte Be , rl d a rl h o C W e e y n e rf is r n u D c te is t ri f D a o W t t igh Staff Once a chance to eir tel every n an High students got theney World’s the ho e longest part of th tt a h n a M e th is d th D s e a d r r w n o F atte ges at Disney. perform fo ents who various sta time spent e busses dropped choir stud biannual Spring other visitors on arks. th tty “After still a pre l,” the choirs’ to Walt Disney throughout the p ere all ready. s a w it , te ff ew in us o alk back to the ho Break trip Orlando, spring “I think w ll together w World in an adventure in We got to sing a y that was in long in said. m u s g a ja e in n to w e e e th B k c a d n bre It was their tim d, the cot, an . the cha p e t E ic o n n g e h y y ll e W a ic n th e f mag charge was re which Lanceta ame to an a world o g to do,” Orlando c aded back up on in th experience l o o c a students lo and began their and fun. r, in order to said. g, the in rm fact, e busses o v k rf e a e w p re o H ng B fter s to the ey home. After the the y ri A a p d S r u ir e fo t ed tha ad ey journ reach th , the attending students had ta express h of the Disn destination ad to endure a freely roam any some time at Lance ts who attended ant n h w e d s d n y u e ts u e b n st sp th e d d le d u b n st parks an tudios. ncomforta t Disney, a lengthy, u but fun a back already. ersal S , iv n n fu U s a y g w go all just ride. was prett n “Performin the parks was to “It was so fun; we w we s u b o e e nd ev “ Th out h lly going arou there were talking ab e, especia ay,” crowded; ping in the aisles, freaking awesom rides were keep to go back and st e e t e lt sl t. It fe Universal. Th an wan people the ta said. I just had opped a lo and we st k forever to get all so cool, and hanging out Lance jamin ag reed that on n o st e B like it to ior Macy Lanceta amazing time trip is a mu jamin ney World gs to do again. ne,” Ben is o D ry e v e there,” jun h in of cool lly wit er list of th said. te part h “We get to do a lot rld has s ride fina ry said. u ri b o v g fa n y lo m e The scen ne y Wo “I think to end as the ith everyo but Disne came to an clear skies and was just being w ut in the stuff, my favorite things ir,” o to o h n in c e ing ugh at be melted and hang Having th ence thro palm trees. so exciting the different parks. as nice, too. experi in said. “It was got to Florida. much freedom w go around Benjam e to morning wd at a gas station to We were allowed we just had d e n e p a p w , o n n st e w e h o w W on our thes, and Wirsen said. “I liked the roller change clo coasters and all of the rides The “American theme park experience” was new for better.” In fact, one of Wirsen’s in the Unites States Wirsen Wirsen, with “large crowds” highlights from the trip was has visited. He feels it’s and “so many things to look during a roller coaster ride. Liz Logback important to see as much of at,” but Disney World was Features Editor “We did one of the water the United States as he can nothing new for him. Growing rides and my host dad [Kent before his exchange year is up, he saw advertisements Kiracofe] got splashed so it Spring Break was a unique for the Disney in France over. experience for sophomore looked like he wet his pants “Visiting other places and watched cartoons with the rest of the day. It was exchange student Florian gives me a better picture of all of the classic characters pretty funny,” Wirsen said. Wirsen. He has visited the the United States as a whole on television. And while the Alps, Italy and other European Scenarios like that and the and that’s why I’m here this characters were exciting when extra time together helped countries during past Spring year,” Wirsen said. “I want Wirsen was younger, he didn’t Wirsen feel closer to his host Breaks, but exploring the to experience more than find them very enthusing at family. United States has been a new just Kansas. Before I came, Disney World. experience. He and his family “After the day we would “It was like 30 minutes just I thought I would visit other traveled to Orlando alongside hang out at the pool and there places, but not this many to hug a princess or character. was a lot more conversation the Manhattan High choirs, I didn’t want to do that,” states.” making Florida the fifth state
6
the MENTOR Sports Soccer shuts out opponents to win first two games April 2, 2013
John Rockey Staff Writer
Junior Ally Taylor attempts to kick the ball past a Topeka West defender. The Indians won both of their first two games and did not allow their opponents to score any points. Bryce Rincon, photographer
Four games into the season and not one goal has been scored on the Lady Indians soccer team. On March 14, the Lady Indians headed to Topeka High for their first game of the new year. “In the first half, we were kind of slow. But we got right into the swing of things,” junior Par McNair said. The first game J.V. scored 8-0 against Topeka High. Varsity had a tougher time in the first half but came out to score four goals and win the game. Following that game came Spring Break and the players all worked throughout the week to stay sharp and learn their own strengths and weaknesses. “We’re looking to transition defensively and continue sticking together on team chemistry,” coach Mike Sanchez said. “We lost a lot of seniors, so we’re learning to work with who we have this year on team chemistry,” McNair said.
Last Wednesday was an improvement as the girls went to Topeka West and won both games with J.V. winning 10-0 and Varsity winning 4-0. “With our good passing, we were able to make some amazing combos and came out with a win, mercy ruling them with two and a half minutes left,” sophomore Kelsey
Schroll said. The team has three more games this week. The first game will be here today against Salina Central. On Thursday they head for Washburn Rural and then Saturday against Blue Valley at home. Next Tuesday the team plays at home against Emporia.
Freshman Madalyn Taylor steals the ball from a Topeka West player. Bryce Rincon, photographer
Track brings home 30 Baseball routs Topeka golds in first two meets in season openers Tre Fuentes Staff Writer With a mix of experienced runners and newcomers both young and old, the Manhattan High Track team has made its long-anticipated debut this season. Starting their season at the Topeka West Invitational and then the Washburn Rural invite, different members of the team participated in various events, ranging from the 400 meter dash and the hurdles to the long and high jump. Of the more than 50 different MHS students that partook in the 36 different events at the varsity meets, there was a lot of everything going on. But more than anything, there was a lot of representing in the top three spots of each event. With 30 overall first place finishes in the two meets combined, it was by far the most
of any team that competed at the meet. Several events, such as the boys javelin, girls 1600m run, girls 800m run, girls 3200m run and boys 3200m run, the Indians had a clean sweep, placing first, second and third in the events. A lot of Indians had success in various events, but some feel like they could have done better. Michael Melgares placed first overall in the 3200-meter race but believes there is room for improvement. “I didn’t really like my times,” Melgares said. “I could’ve run faster but it’s still early in the season and at this point I just want to compete. We’re still training through our meets.” Many of the runners feel like they are still warming up to the season and would like to see improvements in their times, even though they are already performing at a very
high level. Head coach Jesse Woodard believes there is a lot of progress and is pleased with the direction his team is heading. “There is a lot of progress and visible improvement in the team,” Woodard said. “I think a lot of our runners and athletes are very competitive and strive to be the best they can be. Whenever you have a team that is already performing well but sees ways to get better, you know you have a lot to feel good about. We definitely have a lot of talent, and I expect more progress and improvement down the road.” The schedule will continue to get tougher for the Indians, with the Riley County Invitational this Thursday for some J.V. and Varsity athletes. On Friday, the top three MHS athletes in each event will compete at the Topeka Invitational.
Nick Bandy Sports Editor There is no better way the Manhattan High baseball team could have hoped to start off their season than by dominating Topeka High in front of their home crowd last Friday. They won the first game of their doubleheader 15-5 and the second 16-0, both by run rule after less than five innings. “The first game we were just really excited and jittery to get up there and hit, the second game we were relaxed,” junior Jacob Biller said. Biller was the starting pitcher in the second game, following up on senior T.J. Giller’s start in the first game, and they limited Topeka’s offense while the Indian’s offense keep putting out run after run. “Everyone took a good ap-
proach to the plate and drove the ball well,” junior Brett Fehr said. In the second game MHS scored six runs in the first inning, and Fehr widened the lead in the third with a tworun home run. They held Topeka scoreless with strong defense and accurate pitching by Biller. “Pitching is critical. We might not score many runs but we have to be able to pitch the ball. Tonight when we threw the ball over the plate great things happened,” head coach Don Hess said. The Indians did score many runs however, and in the fourth inning a deep double by senior Dustin Whipple allowing two runners to score sealed the deal. MHS mercyruled Topeka 16-0 after four and a half innings. The Indian’s first games were originally supposed to
against Wichita East and Derby last Tuesday in Manhattan, but the bad weather from Spring Break made the fields unplayable. The weather also limited what the team was able to do for practice over Spring Break, so for their three practices they headed indoors. “We’ve been inside for three weeks working on hitting,” Hess said. The team had to deal with another problem over Spring Break when junior Jonah Webber injured his knee skiing. He is now out for an indefinite amount of time. The Indians’ next game will be this Friday at Hayden, who will be more challenging than Topeka, but the Indians are confident in their abilities. “We need to keep producing runs like we did tonight and we can beat anybody we play,” Biller said.
Swimming takes second out of four Tennis takes third at Washburn Derrek Williams Staff Writer
Six MHS swimmers prepare to start their races at the KSU Natatorium last Wednesday. Carly Tracz, photographer
Softball battles Topeka High in close games Dheepti Perumal Multimedia Editor After their first game of the year was cancelled due to wet grounds, the Manhattan High softball team had a tough battle at Topeka High last Friday, splitting wins in the varsity double header but coming away with two J.V. wins. The varsity girls won their first game 8-7 and lost their second game 5-6. The J.V. girls won both games 8-2 and 10-2. Along with their first home meet being cancelled, the varsity girls did not have their head coach Scott Mall during the game due to a personal occasion. But the girls did have assistant coach Amy Vonfeldt. The first game the girls only won by one run and lost the second game by one run. Junior Aubrey Jung played tough and pitched a total of nine innings, two innings more than a regular game because the game was tied after the seventh and eighth
innings. “We played tough, and we put up a battle,” senior Jenna Stigge said. “We haven’t beat Topeka since my freshman year, but we played well.” Senior Tyler Hoyt hit all of her spots and the defense did a good job of backing her up. But in the end Topeka pulled through. “We did better than we expected due to the fact we have had less practice because of Spring Break and bad weather,” Hoyt said. The J.V. girls dominated against Topeka’s J.V. team. Sophomore Lindsey Hageman and Bannister both pitched well -- Hageman with eight or nine strikeouts and Bannister ending with nine-10 strikeouts. “It was a good first game for J.V., and we played tough even though we were winning by a majority,” Hageman said. The next games for the girls will be a home game with Hayden on Friday.
The Manhattan High girls swim team took second at the first swim meet they hosted last Wednesday. With a final score of 400 points out of 1,255, they lost first by 111 points and beat third by 125. The meet was the swim team’s second meet and the first that the team hosted, as well as the first non-invitational swim meet. With the first swim meet being an invitational, many of the people who participated in this swim meet were competing for the first time this year.
“I’m really proud of Ale Andrade because she did butterfly for the first time and did really well,” sophomore Alyssa Frey said. The swim team practiced over break and swimmers were encouraged to go to get more practice in and get more individual attention from coaches. “It was fun. I liked being able to work on one stroke specifically everyday, and getting a bit more attention from the coaches,” sophomore Kiera Vars said. “I lost some time at the meet from the time trials and I think going to practice over break really helped.”
Athlete of the Week Maddy Sparks Staff Writer
Molly Fiser
When the girls soccer season began, their starting goalie, Kristen Tompson, went down with an injury. Sophomore Fiser had to fill in her spot and has not allowed a goal to be scored in their first two games.
Q: What inspired you to play soccer? A: I just tried it when I
was a little kid, and I liked it. I’ve stuck with it ever since.
Q: What are your goals for the soccer season? A: I think our team goal is to make it to State. But my goal as an individual is to have a shut-out season and have no goals scored.
Q: Is being goalie a tough position? A: I think it is. A lot of
people may think it’s not just because you stand there and don’t have to run around, but you have a lot of pressure on you. You don’t have anyone behind you to back you up, and you’re responsible if the other team scores.
Q: How do you feel taking Q: Do you have any special Kristen’s spot? warm ups you do before you A: I felt kind of bad at start to play? first because I know how A: I throw to warm up my much she loves soccer, but if it means she can get better to play for college, then I don’t think it’s bad. I’d like to think I’m filling the shoes well for her.
arms, do some punts for my legs and practice a couple dives.
Q: Who’s your favorite athlete? A: Jordy Nelson.
Danielle Cook Staff Writer
The Manhattan High Boys Tennis team has already competed in one of the larger tournaments of the year and came out with third place as a team. The Washburn Rural Tennis Tournament, held Thursday in Topeka, consisted of 40 singles players and 32 doubles teams, competing in two brackets. Representing MHS, junior Adarsh Singh and freshman Bryan Armbrust participated in singles, Singh placing 13th in the first bracket and Armbrust placing sixth in the second bracket, each finishing with a record of two wins and two losses. Head coach Charles Kipp could tell that his singles participants showed up ready to play. “Both players were very competitive in the tournament,” Kipp said. On the doubles side of things, senior Claib Harris and junior Sam Hoang placed 11th in the first bracket with a total of two wins and two losses. Junior Tyler Belin and freshman Carter Nelson finished with a record of two and two, earning fourth place. Belin and Nelson’s accomplishments in this tournament included a satisfying victory. “They had a very good win over a top seeded Washburn Rural doubles team,” Kipp said. Kipp believes that this, though only the first tournament of the season, was beneficial to the experience of the team’s newer players and to the growth of the team as a whole. “This was an excellent opportunity to get some new players varsity tennis experi-
ence. All in all, the players played fairly well,” Kipp said. Kipp also expressed the ways in which a first tennis tournament can jump start the improvement of a team. “The first tournament usually reveals areas that need to be a focus for improvement, and this was no exception. We have a fine group of players with fundamentally good skills, but there are some aspects of the game that will be addressed in practice, such as serving and overheads,” Kipp said. With work on serving and overheads already in mind, the Indians brought their game to the Salina Central Doubles Tournament on Saturday, where four of their doubles teams competed, participating in four different divisions. Junior Jonathon Turnley and freshman Kirkland Lambert finished second in the top division with a four and one record. The pair’s one loss, according to Kipp, was “a close match with Salina Central’s 2012 5A State Tournament’s third place finishers.” Pairs Dustin Hayes and Singh, Armbrust and freshman Ben Turnley and Harris and freshman Matt Turnley all finished in third in their divisions, earning the MHS team third place ahead of Topeka West, Topeka High and Maize South. “This was a very good outing for Manhattan. For each of these doubles combinations, this was the first competition together, and they played very well,” Kipp said. Next up the varsity will compete today in Topeka, while J.V. heads to Junction City. Next Tuesday varsity will host a meet at home.
7
the MENTOR
News
April 2, 2013
Seniors spend Spring Break skiing USD 383 launches new anti-bullying program Julianne Harkness Staff Writer USD 383 is launching a new anti-bullying program at Manhattan High in August and a committee of teachers and staff are in the process of planning it. A program called Olweus has been in USD 383 elementary and middle schools for seven years now. In the past two years the district has worked to start a high school program. “Through our Safe and Supportive schools grant we got,
we added that to our grant to implement it at the high school level,” counselor Erin Spreer said. “Last summer I went to Texas and got trained to be an Olweus trainer, and from that I have trained a committee for east and west campus to be in charge of implementing the program.” On the committee for East Campus there are five faculty members, and West has eight. Of the eight at West Campus is counselor Eric Ross. “Ms. Spreer trained our committee over two days a few weeks ago,” Ross said. “Ever since
we have met every couple weeks or so to organize and plan how we want to initiate the program for next year.” Because the program will start with the new school year, the two committees are planning to train the Manhattan High staff sometime in August. “The district sent out surveys that the kids filled out a couple months ago,” Ross said. “The data from that will be collected and reviewed with the teachers and getting ideas from them.”
FFA competes in skill contest Derrek Williams Staff Writer
Lucas Richards senior, photographed scenery while on a Spring Break trip to Colorado with a group of senior friends. Richards and several classmates took advantage of the 10-day break to make one last ski trip together as high schoolers. Courtesy Photo Kayla Dieker Copy Editor Spring Break usually evokes images of warm weather and lots of sun, but a group of Manhattan High School seniors ditched the swimsuits and bundled up to go skiing in Colorado. Hannah Funk, Jessica Smith, Jenna Stigge, Anne Roberson, Maddy Johnson, Riley Ratliff, Josh Myers, James Leblow and Evan Williams made the drive and spent the second half of break in cold Nederland, Colo. at the Eldora Resort. “We went skiing of course, as well as snowshoeing, and taking adventures while hiking and exploring the mountainside,” Liebe said. “Plus a little shopping.” They also enjoyed some ‘unusual’ activities. “The most memorable moment was probably when Anne, Maddy and I went Bigfoot hunting, because we actually found Bigfoot. It was insane,” Smith said. The group planned to return to Manhattan on Saturday, but winter weather and I-70 getting closed changed their plans. “We got snowed in the last
day but it was good because we got to ski in a foot of powder,” Funk said. “It was fine because we were having so much fun,” Smith said. The group agrees that the trip was a good getaway from the stresses of school. “I just really enjoyed not having to work or swim,” Funk said. Besides skiing and spending time outside, the
group enjoyed just being able to spend time with each other. “It’s hard to pick one moment because there were so many, but I would have to say ultimate spoons, fight night, or snowshoeing [was my favorite],” Liebe said. “Just being able to spend a whole week with some of my best friends was enough for me.” “It was a blast,” Stigge said.
FFA members take part in several types of judging and skills contest all throughout the school year as teams and as individuals. Some of the members specialize in just one type of judging and some will compete in several. The way that the contests are scored and judged vary, but they basically are based of what the contestant does and does not notice is wrong. The different contests are all agricultural related but vary in what part of agriculture they’re part of. The poultry judging contest is judging poultry animals and to inspect their organs, bodies and eggs listing off impurities that they notice. Contestants award each egg and animal quality rating. The livestock contest is judging farm animals like pigs, cattle and sheep, explaining problems that they see. Participants also judging the size of the animal to determine if the animal is correct for its age and stance to tell if the animal is strong. There are also contest categories to judge the meat from some of
the animals. Not every contest deals with living things. Ag mechanics is working with several different types of materials, machines and buildings that are used in agriculture. The materials used are metal for welding and wood for woodworking to fix machines or to make a shape or an object that is instructed to the contestants. In woodworking the focus was on the measurements or the wood and with welding getting good welds were worth more points. “We were giving blueprints to make a cube and told to do tig welding at a competition a while ago and then they came to make sure that we got the measurements right and had good welds,” senior Ryan Williams said about his participation in ag mechanics. Another competition for FFA members is land and homesite inspecting. The student is to judge the slope of the land by sticking a post in the ground and then sticks their arm out to see how much the ground slopes up or down. They also judge the size of the land to see if it would be good
Dreiling from page 1
Club Notes from page 1
Congratulations Adelle Sloan for winning a $10 iTunes gift card for your submission during the Spring Break Mentor competition!
part in an interview. Out of the people that complete this process, eight officers are chosen to represent the state in FCCLA. Haug likes the fact that she gets to represent FCCLA at the state level. “I really like the organization and what they stand for,” Haug said. “I wanted to get more involved.” Along with Haug, sophomores Kristen Fraley and Shaylyn Hubbell were also elected as a Peer Education team for the upcoming year. The girls had to go through a similar election process, including creating a video that displayed their knowledge of FCCLA and national programs. Fraley and Hubbell have several responsibilities including presenting workshops on “Families First” to schools that request them. Fraley has had long ambitions to secure her spot at state. “I’m really excited,” Fraley said. “I’ve want to do this since I heard about it from my sister, before I was even in high school.” The three girls will go on to represent Kansas at the National Leadership Conference that takes place in Nashville in July. -Kaitlin Wichmann
AFS It’s nothing new to Manhattan High School students to experience being around foreign exchange students, who fill our halls every school year. But many don’t realize the process and adaptations these students have to go through to get here. Wednesday, March 14, Anne Hoolihan, a guest speaker from American Field Service Kansas, came to speak during all hours in the Little Theater with assistance from MHS’s own foreign exchange students. A former foreign exchange student herself, Hoolihan provided first-hand knowledge on the topics presented. “She exposed the individuals different parts of a culture like food and traditions. She gave the students a real sense
for a home and what the home would be used for. The part of the homesite and land inspecting that is spent the most on is the soil of the area. The soil is inspected by digging a hole in the ground and feeling by hand to see how hard, firm and dry the soil is. They then judge the consistency of the soil, which is important to see if it would be able to support a house. “They mix some water and soil together and then roll it around with their hand and then squeeze it,” Williams said. Most of the students can practice for the contests by going over videos, practicing welding and reading about what to look for in class. The end goal is to do well enough at the district level to qualify for the State FFA contest at KState later this month. “State is the same thing but they just use different animals or equipment when they are working than they use at district,” Williams said. An added incentive for doing well is that in some of the contests the student can win a scholarship.
of the world and traveling,” AFS sponsor Tony Wichmann said. Most students who got to attend the presentation sat in during their hour of foreign language. Throughout the presentation they were exposed to what exactly it takes to be an exchange student and host a student. The presentation also explored the traditions of other cultures and how they related to those of the United States. “We have a lot of individuals here [at MHS] from all around the world. This presentation gave them information to develop a sense of empathy towards these students,” Wichmann said. The presentation ended with a question and answer session for students. “I really enjoyed it. I thought it would be an absolutely great way to see how everything else in the world compares to how we are here,” sophomore Miranda Hairgrove said. “I felt the students responded well,” Wichmann said. “Every hour I feel they were engaged in the presentation.” -Maddie Ross
Weather from page 1 way to experience it and learn science, it’s not just looking into a book.” Once Mamalo collects his data, he uploads it to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Mamalo is very excited for students to get the chance to see the weather at MHS. “It is very practical to know the weather at MHS. Other weather stations in Manhattan are at the airport or seen on TV, but now students can see what the weather is like at their school,” he said. MHS students and faculty can view the school’s forecast by visiting the website www. weat herlink.com/user/mhsweather or by using the app WeatherLink on iPhones or Droids and searching for Manhattan High School. A link is also available at mhsmentor. com.
sweatshirt was being sold to his chapter all over the conference (Big 8 back then). Dreiling contacted the owner of the company, an entrepreneur like himself, about selling in other national college divisions, and they began to market them everywhere When he and his newfound business partner from those clothing sales decided to start their own business, Dreiling’s father was not enthusiastic about it. “I was scared,” Dreiling said. “My dad said it wouldn’t work.” But in retrospect, he commented, “If you’re still early in life, and you screw up and fail, you can recoup.” Now, however, his company is large and growing. “It’s about getting a little bit better every day,” Dreiling said. In addition to the tips about business, Dreiling also provided a bit of his philosophy on life. “As you go through life, ask the Why’s, try to understand things beyond your own blinders,” Dreiling said. When he interviews people for a job opportunity, Dreiling gives them a tour of GTM facilities. He said he learns just as much from the questions people ask on the tours as the job interview itself. The Brown Bag Lunch Series presents a speaker each month. The April speaker will be Cheryl Grice from Kansas State University human resources. For more information, contact Dawn Lindsey in E-106. Zoo from page 1 support, with money coming from MHS Athletic Director Mike Marsh, help from Beverly Fink and other activities. “This is the highlight of the year for me,” Lamb said. “I’m 60 and I get really excited about feeding a rhino. The gorillas are the coolest ever, and of course any baby is cuter than a dickens.” At the end of their trip, students gained a better appreciation for zoos and their keepers. MHS senior Praveen Ramaswamy said that he would like to be a trainer because of the cool things animals can do. Wang has other ideas. “I would love to work at a zoo, but I would only want to work with animals I want to work with,” she said.