181218 Vol. 106 Edition 11

INSIDE THIS EDITION BOYS BASKETBALL -- Junior Peyton Weixelman prepares to pass the ball during the varsity boys game against Hayden. Photo by Heidi Hansen GIRLS BASKETBALL -- Junior Aloera Ostermann protects the ball before passing during the varsity girls game. Photo by Jennifer Sadler See Page 3 for more

THE JUNIOR MENTOR VOLUME 106 - ISSUE 11 - DEC. 18, 2018

MHSMENTOR.COM

AFS provides cultural opportunities by planning trip to New York Emma Elliott Staff Writer

In March 2019, AFS club plans to take its members to Buffalo, New York, to engage cultural experiences.

Tony Wichmann, club sponsor, says the trip will be set up with a school in Buffalo, who will be coming to Manhattan while MHS students visit New York.

New York students will arrive on March 20 to settle in with their host families, and will attend so-

cial and tourist activities throughout the week. These will include a potluck social organized to welcome the visitors, a trip to the Konza Prairie, K-State and other activities throughout the Kansas region.

At the end of their trip, they will be dropped off at the Kansas City airport, and then the MHS students will begin their visit.

“Later that month, we’re going to do activities around [Buffalo] and one of the main activities is that we’re going to visit Niagra

Falls,” Wichmann said. “[This is for a] similar type of exposure, we’ll just see the sights around the area.”

Shawn Lange, junior, German exchange student, says he has gained a lot from being a part of AFS and can’t wait for the biggest activity yet.

“We have had an ice cream social, we’ve had fundraisers at the K-State football games, which the money goes to Buffalo, and gone ice skating,” said Lange. “I’m excited about the global experiences

Sweet sales success

FFA, freshman StuCo sell candy canes for fundraiser

and getting to know people all across the world.”

Other activities throughout the semester have included a fall party and visiting Olsburg, where the students carved pumpkins and went on hayrides.

The club, students say, has allowed exchange students to have many new experiences and does so in a way that allows them to feel comfortable.

“It gives them familiar faces they can see throughout the school and people that they know

MHS prepares for international trips Gavin Gaston Staff Writer

Manhattan High is no stranger to having international encounters and experiences. Students from multiple countries come to Manhattan every year, and, every so often, students and teachers from MHS get to go to these countries, or other countries around the world.

There are currently a total of three different trips currently being planned, with all three of them being in Europe. Jancy Radke is hosting two trips to central Europe, one of which is a trip to Switzerland, Austria and Germany, and another to England, France and Scotland, in 2019 and 2020 respectively.

Lindsy Clark is hosting a trip to Spain in 2020. Her trip will include going to parts of Spain and Portugal. Clark also hosted two trips before this, with one of the trips going to Panama and Costa Rica.

There have been several trips abroad taken by MHS students and faculty in the past. One such trip was one to Greece and Italy which was hosted by Andrew

Photo above by Chloe Henderson Photo right by Brianna Carmack Above: Freshman Student Council members Bella Lane and Monroe Say write on name tags for their candy cane gram fundraiser. The fundraisers was to help raise money for future events.

Right: Sophomore Ashlyn Dechant talks to an FFA member about buying a candy cane for their candy cane gram fundraiser. FFA members ran a booth in the West campus cafeteria during lunch for several days to raiser funds for their chapter.

they can talk to about anything,” Elizabeth Chapman, junior, said.

“We really just help them settle in.”

Until the date of the trip, the 22 AFS students will be preparing to go to Buffalo for a new American experience and excitedly await making new friends, seeing new places and soaking in the new encounters.

Farmer. The trip took place during the summer of 2018, and the group was taken to many different places within the countries.

“We went to Rome, Florence, Matera, Athens and The Greek Islands,” said Farmer.

The trip lasted about two weeks, and the group consisted of two high schools, Manhattan High and Salina Central High School.

The many places they went to included the Colosseum, The First Civilization, The Acropolis, and they also ventured into some of the caves in the area.

More current trips coming up include multiple countries.

“It was mainly just an ecological, adventure trip,” Clark said. “We didn’t visit anywhere, in particular, we just toured the countries and explored the ecosystems.”

There are still spots available on the trip to Spain, Students who are interested in joining the group are directed to see Clark in room E-118. The trip will last approximately 11-14 days, and the group will do many cultural-related activities and see many sights associated with the country.

Manhattan High prepares for finals week Kris Long Junior News Editor Kaitlin Clark Print Editor-in-Chief

Graphic Jimmy Marshal

Medical Explorers plan to meet with professionals Naysa Hicks Staff Writer

Manhattan High has a variety of unique clubs, but not many of them include the intensive handson experience that help students determine if a career is truly for them. The Medical Explorers Club provides students with an interest in learning more about medical topics the opportunity to get a better picture of what that entails.

Although their latest meeting, which was scheduled for Dec. 13, was cancelled, the Medical Explorers have met with several professionals and had several club meetings through the semester.

Chalice Carter, a sophomore

who is one of the club members of Medical Explorers, discussed the very first meeting that she went to and what has happened throughout this year. “[The group] first went over what is going to be happening, and how they would either bring medical professionals...and how we would take trips and talk about their job and how they got to be in that job,” Carter said.

Craig Ackerman, the sponsor for Medical Explorers, has been with the club for three years. Ackerman talked about some of the things that they have done this school year, including visits with a pediatric oncologist that specializes in bone marrow transplants, a

radiology technician and a nurse.

Ackerman took the students on a tour at the Kansas State University Vet school at 4:15 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 6. They have also had a pediatrician, dentist and several internal medicine doctors in the past.

“We are going to get a psychiatrist and hopefully a surgeon again this year,” Ackerman said.

Ackerman hopes that students have truly gained something from the activities they have participated in with Medical Explorers.

“I think just in general I hope they enjoy the opportunity to hear from people and their personal experiences and what it is they do,” he said.

With finals coming up students are working harder than ever to cram as much knowledge into their brains as they possibly can before the big tests.

Most people have finals in almost all of their classes, creating a studying frenzy. This combined with catching up with the end of the semester workload can make for a chaotic last week. This is especially so for freshmen, who are taking their high school finals for the first time this week.

Studying for multiple tests in one week will always be stressful, but there are things students can do to help themselves carry the heavy load. “[I have a final in] English, Geometry but I already took it, Biology, History, and Spanish,” freshman Gillian Carter said.

Students deal with the stress in many different ways with one of the most common being to study. There are many different options for studying.

“I use Quizlet...I do flashcards, I view...all my notes, rewrite definitions… and then quiz myself. Sometimes I make practice tests… and take notes,”

Carter said.

Other students use more contemporary methods.

“For Trig and Spanish I’m going to go over the reviews I have and I’m doing some practice problems,” freshman Sam DeLong said, “and praying to whatever higher being there may be.”

Students often choose to study in more entertaining places after school, such as coffee shops, the library or at a restaurant.

“I get together with friends and we study at Panera,” junior Allie Conrow said.

Students often use a combination of several studying techniques in order to best prepare for the finals they face.

“I am going to make flash cards for my English class and and make a quiz for my documents processing class and math,” freshman Marcus Ellner said.

As students prepare to take their finals, they face a variety of emotions, but through them all, they strive to do the best that they can.

“I hate [finals],” Carter said. “They stress me out, I’m scared...”

OPINIONS

2

The Mentor Dec. 18, 2018 MHSMentor.com

Self-defense fighting policy unfair to victims This editiorial is a compilation from a discussion held by the editiorial board.

To listen to the conversation that led to this piece, visit MHSMentor.com.

The current school policy on fighting is a zero-tolerance-ofviolence policy, meaning anyone involved in a fight is automatically suspended out of school for one day. Is this really a fair policy? Is it fair that students can get punished for self-defense? What should students do if they end up in a fight to avoid getting in trouble, while also avoiding harm?

It is the agreement of The Junior Mentor Editorial Board that if a person is not the one who started the fight or partakes in the fight for any reason other than self-defense, they should not

be punished under most circumstances.

Individual school districts set standards around fighting. In Junction City High School the rules state that verbally instigating a fight is considered to be against the rules, whereas in Washburn Rural the rules are much less strict and self-defense is allowed.

Manhattan High falls in the middle of these examples. Discipline only extends to physical violence so far as fighting, but students are not entitled to defend themselves and are instead instructed to leave the situation or do nothing. The problem with this policy is rather obvious -- it is not always possible to vacate the situation, especially when a person is being attacked, and if stu-

Finals unnecessary burden

Heidi Hansen Staff Writer

The dreaded finals. Students work hard all semester taking tests and stressing over lastminute homework just to take a huge test that could make or break your grade.

Finals bring on unwanted stress, and to be honest, no one wants to study over their entire weekend. Students already take standardized tests during the semester to let their teacher know whether or not they are learning the material. There is no point in having a final, for teachers already know the progress of their students.

For example, if you have an A or a B in the class, there’s a likely chance that you will do well on the final because you have done well on previous tests.

The teacher knows you know the material, but they still give you a test that goes over it. If you have a C or lower, there might be a less likely chance of you getting a good grade on the final compared to others.

So basically, the final is setting you up to fail. If you didn’t know the material then, how could you

figure it all out in a week? Finals benefit the students who did well on the standardized tests but do not benefit anyone else.

Another reason we shouldn’t have finals is that students study just to pass the test, and once the relief of the test being over kicks in, they forget all about what they studied. Finals contradict the purpose of school. You are supposed to expand your knowledge of subjects throughout school, and a final ruins that. Students come back after break not remembering half of what they learned because they wanted to get rid of the stress of the final.

To go along with that, students who didn’t do well on the final are now annoyed and have low self- esteem. They probably won’t want to try as hard in school anymore, making their grades even worse. It’s a neverending cycle if that happens to you.

Some students might do poorly on the final simply because they have a phobia of tests. They get so stressed and simply can’t think or remember anything, which does not help their case.

Overall, finals are pointless for students. It causes stress, anxiety, and annoyance. Students forget everything in the end, and teachers already know who knows the material. Finals should not be given to students.

dents do nothing they risk serious injury.

Self-defense is something that everyone should have the right

Photo by Claudia Deleon

to exercise. The right to self-defense is the right of a student to avoid harm, which should be the school’s first priority. The school’s policy of no self-defense-allowed

is irresponsibly optimistic in assuming that there will be a swift intervention, which is not always the case. This can culminate in the injury of students who are forced to choose whether to be beaten up or to have a suspension on their record. Students should never be forced to make this choice; that is why the policy needs to be changed.

It should be noted that in a conflict there are almost always multiple guilty parties, so, when possible, it is better for students to prevent a conflict rather than being forced to defend themselves. It is important that students should have the ability to protect themselves from harm, but this should be done with as little violence as possible.

Question of the Week

Question of the Week- What do you want for Christmas?

“A puppy.”

“A 4.0.”

- Maria Arroyo, freshman @3maria.3

“Money and gift cards.”

-- Duru Dogan, junior @drdgn01

Domestic abuse has been a problem in our society for many decades. More than one in three women (35.6 percent) and more than one in four men (28.5 percent) in the United States have experienced rape, physical violence and/or stalking by an intimate partner in their lifetime. Men who are victimized are substantially less likely than women to report their situation to police. Just because the number of men is less, doesn’t mean we should ignore them.

In 2011, Sally Challen was convicted of murdering her husband after 31 years of marriage.

As Richard Challen was eating his last breakfast, Sally hit him with a hammer more than 20 times.

Kaitlin Clark -- Print Editor-in-Chief Julianna Poe and Bella Lane -Junior Co-Editors-in-Chief Meredith Comas -- Online Editorin-Chief Anika Nyp -- Junior Online Editorin-Chief Micheal Simmons -- Blue M Editorin-Chief Brianna Carmack -- Opinions Editor Kyla Barnett -- Junior Opinions Editor Sophia Comas -- Sports Editor

-- Bella Lane, freshman @lilbee799

Next week’s question: What is your New Years resolution?

Tumblr ban on adult content too extreme

Kyla Barnett Junior Opinions Editor

Recently, the popular social media site Tumblr announced that it would be permanently banning all adult content on its platform as of yesterday, and it has caused an uproar. Tumblr is a space for everyone to express themselves and always has been, but now that is being threatened.

A huge part of Tumblr is made up of artwork, photos, and videos that the site might deem “inappropriate.” People will no longer have the freedom to post what they want. Anything that Tumblr deems “adult content” will be restricted, even if it isn’t.

This will cause a lot of problems on the site.

With this ban, many people are losing that self-expression that

they were promised when they joined, and they aren’t happy about it.

A big part of Tumblr is made up of artwork of all kinds. With the ban, a lot of artwork will no longer be allowed on the site.

People will no longer be able to share that artwork with the rest of the world or get positive feedback with others. Tumblr was a place where people could share their artwork with others without judgement or hate. They could share their art no matter what it showed. They could come together and share things with each other. It is what is amazing about the site. You will always be able to find someone like you, who shares your interests and beliefs.

Along with artwork, photos will not be allowed on the site if they show “female-presenting nipples” in any context other than breastfeeding. This can affect the self-confidence of a lot of young women because this shows women that their bodies are inappropriate. Lots of women post photos of themselves because they feel confident about themselves

Male victims of assault deserve same respect as women

Katya Tarabrina Junior Copy Editor

The school’s policy also should consider conflict on a case by case basis. Security cameras are situated all over the school. A combination of watching footage of the event and interviewing witnesses for background information should allow a fair judgment of fault and punishment can be dealt with accordingly. If this was the standard procedure then selfdefense could be clearly identified and there would be no need to have such broad rules that aren’t appropriate for all situations.

The school’s policy should be changed to a self-defense policy and should be more focused on case-by-case situations. This is important to protect students and to provide fair punishment to all that attend MHS.

In 2015, nearly four years after his death, she claimed he was emotionally abusive. According to Sally, Richard criticized her, was controlling and made inappropriate jokes in front of her friends.

The article that caught my attention about this case was

by Anna Moore from “The Guardian.” It depicted Sally as a wonderful woman who “just snapped,” calling her a “devoted wife.” In another article she was described as a mild-mannered, conventional mother of two. I believe that Sally suffered from abuse; nonetheless, she still killed her husband.

In my search of similar cases to Sally, I found Steven Rothschild’s case. Steven was married to his wife for 36 years until her death, when she was found in her home bloodied and unresponsive.

When Steven’s mental health was evaluated, it was concluded that he had a type of post-traumatic stress disorder that was created by emotional abuse over a period of years. His lawyer claimed that his wife isolated him, made him give up his friendships and quit golf,

and constantly criticized him. She made him write endless notes and letters of apologies addressing her, telling her how he was lucky to have her, and complimenting her. The lawyer had more than 200 pages of notes and letters to support his claims.

Steven was treated differently than Sally.

“There was one victim and unfortunately she was not able to speak for herself. Her life was taken wrongfully. This was domestic violence. We respect the jury’s verdict but believe an individual who commits violence to others should be punished to the fullest extent of the law,” the District Attorney said about Rothschild’s case.

Of course, murder is absolutely wrong unless it is self-defense. But Sally and Steven’s cases were crimes of passion. Their cases were eerily similar. Both were emotionally abused by their spouses and both murdered their spouses. They didn’t die by accident. They didn’t die because their killers used self-defense.

They were murdered. I could not

find many articles talking about Steven’s struggle with his wife.

Sally’s actions were excused, and her husband was showed as a horrible person.

In a country that has had so much inequality between the sexes, this is so saddening. Two in five of all victims of domestic violence are men. Most male victims don’t even speak up about their abuse or assault. Men who get assaulted by their partners are often ignored by police, see their attacker go free and have far fewer refugees to flee to than women.

Men are socialized not to express their feelings or see themselves as victims and they are still taught to “be a man.” Men rarely are able to show their emotions, men are taught that being emotional isn’t “manly.” Some men don’t even realize they are being abused by their partner because it is so normalized by our society.

Every abuse victim is important. Males, females, aliens, whatever. We shouldn’t look at their gender and think automatically that their accusations aren’t valid.

This is what equality is all about.

Hannah Heger -- Features Editor Jimmy Marshall -- Junior Entertainment Editor Rachel Edie and Julianna Poe -- Copy Editors Hailey Eilert -- Photo Editor Mason Alberto and Makenna Wollenberg -- Assistant Photo Editors Meredith Graves, Ethan Morrow and Naysa Hicks -- Junior CoPhoto Editors Staff Writers and Photographers -Ayden Boyles, Kami Bussmann, Josh

Flickinger, Olivia Haas, Cade McNeil, Javi Mercado, Aloera Ostermann, Madison Ritz, Jennifer Sadler, Riley Williamson, Tara Wood Video Production -- Gabe Jernigan, Duncan O’Brate, Jarrod Wege 21st Century Journalism -- Kyla Barnett, Coy Cavender, Parker Dawdy, Emma Elliott, Gavin Gaston, Meredith Graves, Joe Hall, Heidi Hansen, Chloe Henderson, Naysa Hicks, Ryleigh Lancaster,

Bella Lane, Hannah Le, Kris Long, Jimmy Marshall, Ethan Morrow, Anika Nyp, Elisa Ohler, Cole Schmitt, Katya Tarabrina, Nicholas Walters Kristy Nyp -- Adviser Circulation Team -Mary Alderink, Caleb Barnes, Sebastian Bryant, Angel Cid, Brandi Cummings, Caleb Deloach, Rachel Efken, Kimberley Genandt, Terra Harvey, Kayla Wong The Mentor is published each Tuesday that school is in session at Manhattan

and their bodies. They post them to show progress and self-love.

Other people look at these photos and feel better about themselves seeing other people who look like them. Seeing people you relate to or look like in a positive light can make people more confident in who they are and what they look like. Tumblr should be a place where people are comfortable with who they are and not ashamed of it.

While I believe that the ban is not a good idea, I do think that there needs to be more restrictions on the site. Actual pornography as in “ the portrayal of erotic behavior designed to cause sexual excitement,” has no place on Tumblr, but photos and artwork containing adult content should not be banned altogether. I think that Tumblr should look at every post individually and determine if it really does have a place on the site. Tumblr is a place where everyone can come together no matter what, be comfortable with themselves, and be able to share things about themselves and that should not be taken away.

Do you have stories to be told, opinions to be shared or a voice to be heard?

Send your Letter to the Editor or guest column to MHSMentor@ gmail.com. We can’t wait to hear your voice, Manhattan High!

High School, 2100 Poyntz Ave. Manhattan, Kan. Telephone (785) 587-2114.

More than 1,000 Mentors are printed each week and distributed free of charge to all faculty members and students.

MHS journalists are members of the Kansas Scholastic Press Association and National Scholastic Press Association.

The Mentor is a public forum. E-mail us at mhsmentor@gmail.com.

SPORTS

The Mentor Dec. 18, 2018 MHSMentor.com

3

Swim and Dive takes first at home meet Anika Nyp Junior Online Editor-In-Chief

For the first time this season the Manhattan High swim and dive team has taken first place.

Their swim meet at 3:30 p.m. last Wednesday at the Kansas State Natatorium was a lot smoother running and had almost no mishaps.

“I think we all showed up at each and every event not just physically but mentally as well,” senior captain Zach Payne said.

“We knew we were going to beat them we had that in our head that was our goal and we were determined to beat them and I think that really drove us to winning.”

Although the team has been working hard to ensure success, they aren’t too worried about whether or not they will keep it.

“I was happy with places mostly and that we were finishing where we were seeded,” Alex Brown, coach said. “I don’t get super concerned about times at this point in the season because we are starting to get into hard workouts and times aren’t necessarily going to be really fast.

Freshman Zeke Kohl got second in diving with a total of 250.40 points. Senior Zane Kohl got forth place and sophomore Sam Erker got eighth place. The swim team won with 469 points.

Most of the team members had no doubt they were going to win.

“We went out there knowing

we had a chance to get first so I think that good mindset of if you work hard we can get this,” sophomore Sean Anderson said.

The 200 medley, 200 free and the 400 free relays all won first out of the 5 teams there.

“The ones I was most impressed with had to say the 400 relays at the end,” Brown said.

“I was happy with the five of the [teams] but I think all five did really well and placed ahead of where they’re supposed to.”

Their win comes through a lot of hard earned effort along with added improvement through faster times and bigger lead margins.

“It was nice to not be beat by one point like we have at a couple of meets so far,” Brown said. “I think they all enjoyed winning, especially by the margins we did in a meet that size. You don’t usually win by that much so I was definitely happy to see that. It makes it a little easier to finish up the meet and move onto the next day knowing that you have that win in your back pocket.”

Having that win added to their repertoire of success helps boost team morale.

“Yeah, it definitely was getting that first meet for the first time…,” Payne said. “It’s good morale for the team and I think it’s like going to carry us a ways.”

The swim and dive team will not have another swim meet until Jan. 9 at the Kansas State Natatorium.

Girls punch out another win, rivalry next

ATHLETE

Michael Simmons Blue M Editor-In-Chief

OF THE

WEEK Xander Say Swimming Cole Schmitt Staff Writer

• Won the 200 freestyle, 100 breaststroke, 200 freestyle relay, and 400 freestyle relay this past week What inspired you to become a swimmer?

The 2012 Summer Olympic games inspired me to become a swimmer. In particular, Missy Franklin, who was 17 years old at the time, won five Olympic medals, four of which were gold.

What do you expect to achieve this season?

Personally, I’d like to lead the team to a first place victory at

Photo by Olivia Haas

League.

What is your favorite part of swimming?

The team. I love competing with and against my teammates.

We all push each other to be the best we can be.

How much do you train for swimming?

I spend about 12 hours in the pool every week and about four hours at dryland, which is what swimmers call working out and lifting.

What is your favorite memory so far about swimming?

My favorite memory was the 400 freestyle relay at State last year with Suman Wang, Cole Dudley, and Preston Harrison.

Wrestling takes fourth in Nebraska Kamryn Bussmann Staff Writer

The Manhattan High wrestling team had another successful weekend in Grand Island, Nebraska traveling on Thursday, having a day of bonding with practice that ended on Saturday.

As a team, they went 6-2 and had two undefeated wrestlers, seniors Bubba Wilson and Quincy Sadler.

“Our team got closer this weekend because we stayed in a hotel for two nights, we all watched a big dual on TV together, Penn state vs. Arizona state,” Wilson said. “We had tons of fun and competed very well as a team.”

They went up against Norfork High for the first round on Friday and won 60-15. Most of the boys ended their match by pinning their opponents. Their second round they competed against Grand Island’s Junior Varsity team and beat them 63-9. Both teams had an open weight class (182) and GISH had an open weight class (113), giving freshman Easton Taylor another win on his record.

“When we were losing we

Photo by Anika Nyp Sophomore Dominic Palmieri swims freestyle in the last event, the 400 relay. The meet was hosted by Manhattan High in the Kansas State University Natatorium, where MHS won first place for the first time this season.

battled back and wrestled our matches and let our matches have the outcome of the whole dual,” Taylor said.

On Friday, they defeated Northwest High 48-30 for round one and went up against Smith Center, defeating them 64-15.

After those wins, the team was seated fifth out of 16 in the gold bracket.

“I had confidence in my training and I go into every match no matter who I wrestle expecting to win,” Wilson said.

For the first round, they competed against Great Bend, beating them 33-30. They went on and wrestled against Columbus where they took another win 45-30 in the quarterfinals. The team’s winning streak came to a close after wrestling against Grand Island and losing 32-35 for the semifinals. They lost to Millard South 31-39 to secure their fourth place spot.

“We have enough room to improve but still [we’re] happy with what we got,” Taylor said.

Wrestling won’t have any matches over break until Jan. 5.

Defense was the name of the game for Manhattan High girls basketball as they win once again against Hayden, 53-36. The team now has a 5-1 record after dominating their rivals, Junction City, 72-16 last Tuesday.

“Our defense did a lot of different things,” head coach Scott Mall said. “Hayden does a lot of ball screens and our girls did a good job of talking and switching, which is tough to do sometimes.

Our girls do a good job of stepping up to that and there’s going to be some mismatches but the girls do a pretty good job of hiding those mismatches. Hayden likes to shoot a lot of threes so I think we did a good job of when we switch making sure we get on those shooters quick and making sure we get a hand up.”

Hayden came out strong at the start of the game, but couldn’t penetrate Manhattan High’s defense causing multiple turnovers resulting in Manhattan leading

at half, 22-10. Senior Kia Wilson lead the team through the first half, scoring all 10 points for the team in the first quarter and four of the 12 in the second quarter. “[Hayden] tired to drive a lot,” senior Haleigh Harper said. “We just had to help on defense a lot which we practiced a ton this week so we were ready for that and it didn’t really catch us off guard.

We really expected Kia [Wilson] to shut Hunter [Brooklyn, senior] down defensively and then we expected [Wilson] to score a lot on offense so that was our main goal was to get it to [Wilson] so that way we could get her one on one with [Hunter] and we did and [Wilson] executed.”

Despite missing a few shots late in the second quarter, Wilson ended the night with an astounding season-high 27 points, 24 coming from the post.

“I think we have done a really good job at just teamwork and adjusting through stuff,” Wilson said. “I think we had to adjust and at the beginning, I certainly had to adjust more because coach

mall was trying to get me in the post and switch the offense to a four out, I think just looking for opportunities is what I changed.”

Even with potent offensive players composing all of Manhattan High’s starting lineup, the key to success for the team remains their defensive abilities.

“Defense has always really been our kind of thing especially for us seniors,” Wilson said.

“Since forever ago we have always been a defense-first team so I think we just carried that on. If we stop them from scoring then in turn that gives us opportunities on offense and even if we don’t score we can still win by stopping them from scoring.”

Although Wilson scored the majority of the points for the night, it was nothing short of a team effort with junior Aloera Ostermann scoring 10 points and making multiple defensive plays.

The team plans to continue their trend of teamwork, as they host yet another rival team, Washburn Rural, on Thursday.

Cole Schmitt Staff Writer

MHS Varsity Basketball (4-2) went 1-1 this past week, downing their rival Junction City (3-1) 5149 last Tuesday in the Nest, but falling to the Hayden Wildcats (12) 44-47 at home last Friday.

The last three games for Manhattan have been decided by less than three points.

“I thought [junior] Mitch Munsen especially did a great job on A.J. Dickerson, their best player,” George said. “He held A.J. to four points in the second half and he wasn’t nearly as effective. Everybody else just kind of filled in the line. I felt defensively we really buckled down.”

Junction City got out to a 17-5 lead early in the game before Manhattan came right back before the half.

The Indians would soon lead the game in the second half and maintain it the majority of the time. In the final minute, Manhattan was up on the Blue Jays 50-49. Senior Lawson Monaco hit a huge free throw to put the Indians lead at two with six seconds left. Junction City came down the court and threw up a

Photo By Heidi Hansen Junior Raeshon Riddick shoots a free throw during the varsity boys basketball game against Hayden. The Indians lost 44-47 at home last Friday.

three which was way too short.

The Indians pulled out their second conference victory.

“We stuck together and didn’t give up,” junior Peyton Weixelman said. “We could’ve just laid down and quit but we didn’t.”

Last Friday, the Hayden Wildcats traveled to Manhattan to take on the Indians. The Indians trailed most of the game but not by much. After tying the game at 30 midway through the third the Wildcats went on an 8-0 run to finish out the quarter. The Indians got within three in the final minutes and the eventually tied it up at 44 with a minute to go.

Hayden would hit a three in the final seconds to give Manhattan their first loss in league play.

The Indians will return home this Thursday to face off with undefeated Washburn Rural (5-0), who have scored at least 60 in all their games this season.

“They really thrive on creating turnovers,” George said. “Kind of an old-school way, tough, manto-man defense. Deny, not let you get into your offense. Handling their pressure is going to be key.

We’re going to have a definite size advantage. I think we can ride our defense and rebounding like we have all year.”

4

FEATURES

The Mentor Dec. 18, 2018 MHSMentor.com

Freshmen square dance the semester away

Rachel Edie Copy Editor

The final unit for the freshmen physical education class is square dancing. The unit has been going on for two weeks at this point and is quite different in contrast for previous units which include volleyball, pickle ball, football and lacrosse.

“It’s a dance people would do with people that helped them harvest the season’s crop of build a barn,” Joshua Adenji, freshman, said.

Square dancing is a type of partner dance and has many variations. Every person has a partner and every dance has four pairs of two people for each group. The students have learned around six of these variations and the basic moves that go along with them. Types of music vary, but will often have an upbeat rhythm with no words.

“We learned, I think, six dances and we learned about the basic moves and about what the calls mean,” Rachel Corn, freshman, said.

Some people think that it is a little bit of a waste compared to other activities. Previously the units have been more athletic based and have been taught in shorter increments. Considering square dancing could be thought of as a barren, or pointless, art, one could see why others would believe it to be useless. However, many kids and teachers seem to like it.

They believe that the change of pace can be fun and educational.

This unit has been very interesting to hear about and learn about as much as it contrasts others. The unit will be finished at the end of the semester and most likely not brought up to be taught again.

ARTIST OF THE

WEEK • Aspiring graphic artist who wants to pursue a career in graphic design and art culture Photo by Emma Elliott

Mekaila Rickert Painter, Photographer Emma Elliott Staff Writer

What got you into art?

“I’ve been doing it since I was little. It was just kind of an always thing. I’m probably more influenced by my brother because he was always sketching when I was little.”

What is your favorite medium and why?

“Watercolor, because it always looks so soft but it can also look really harsh.”

What has influenced your art style the most?

“Honestly, a lot of speed art videos on YouTube. I would just

watch them for hours.”

Do you hope to make a career out of anything in the art field?

“I do, I’m trying to go to college for photography.”

What is your favorite part of doing photography?

“I love doing portraits. I love being able to capture these moments, like with Raigan, I constantly do photoshoots with her and I’ve caught the most ridiculously perfect moments and it’s just great.”

Is there anything you want to say about art at MHS? “Manhattan High is extremely lucky to have the art teachers that they do. I don’t know what I’d do without them.”

Manhattan High’s BSU informs on their new Step team Chloe Henderson Staff Writer

Manhattan High has recently added an optional Step team to the Black Student Union club.

Stepping, or step-dancing, is a form of dance where the person uses their entire body to create music. BSU’s president of two years, senior Greg VanDyke, said that stepping was added in hopes to add unity and to give high school students a chance to find themselves in a group as well as further their understanding of their culture. “[Stepping] originated in Africa and, from what I was told, was brought about because of things being limited. Like, there was no guitars or anything like that back then, so African people make time with their body,” senior Amani Rockett said.

As this is the team’s first year and they are still getting the hang of things, they won’t be doing any competitions. However, they hope they can develop to a point where everyone is confident and united enough to compete. “[Adding a step team to BSU has] brought [members] closer together and made [members] feel more comfortable around

each other,” sophomore Tamayia Washington said.

Though a date is not currently set for a performance from the team, Rockett says there is a possibility of them performing on Feb. 26 at their annual poetry slam held in the Little Theatre at West Campus.

“The most important thing I want people to know about BSU as a whole is our group is here to encourage diversity in our school and advocate for black students as well as create a safe space for them,” Rockett said.

One of the Step team’s many goals is to be heard, to shine.

“For BSU’s stepping team, I want people to know that we have a voice, that when we do step, your going to hear us,” Rockett said. “Let me elaborate on that for those that might not understand, stepping isn’t just making beats. It’s a part of culture, my culture. It’s a way people say things without words and sometimes with, I feel like there is a message and I feel like our message for our Step team is: We are here, and we want you to listen.”

Top: Freshmen Anna Culbertson and her dance partner promenade during the square dancing unit in freshmen P.E. Photo by Gavin Gaston Bottom Left: Freshmen join hands and dance in a circle counter clockwise, smiling ear to ear. Photo by Gavin Gaston Middle: Freshmen Connor Bruce, Paul Batt, Evan Bratt and Cade McIlvaine square dance during freshman P.E. The freshman have been learning and practicing square dancing for the past two weeks. Photo by Javi Mercado Bottom Right: Freshman Emily Ashmore laughs with her friends while square dancing last week. Photo by Gavin Gaston

What is the purpose of physical education for students?

Coy Cavendar Staff Writer

Many students ask this question everyday. What purpose does physical education have when it comes to school? Well, there just happens to be a handful of things that are important when it comes to physical education in school. As many kids sit in there desks all school day and don’t have much physical activity, physical education can play a big role in a students day.

“Kids sit in their desks for the most part of the day and physical education offers them a break,” Kory Cool, physical education teacher, said.

Most of us know that physical activity is very important when it comes to our bodies, but some people simply refuse to do it. This is the main reason why physical education is important.

Every student needs their exercise everyday in order to main-

tain a healthy lifestyle.

“Regular physical activity has been shown to reduce the morbidity and mortality from many chronic diseases,” an article from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services said.

This backs up Cool’s statement: “physical education prevents an onset of diseases.”

When it comes to creating healthy habits for a student, exercise should not stop after you are done with school or even when you get much older. Staying healthy throughout your life is extremely important and physical education definitely attempts to teach you that and plenty of other things when it come to your body.

When it comes to preventing diseases, physical activity plays a big role. There has been a number of studies proving this. Overall, staying active and living a healthy lifestyle can go along ways.

Currently, physical educa-

tion is teaching kids a lot of important things and is helping students maintain a healthy lifestyle. But not only should students be using these helpful tips right now, they should also use them in the future.

Manhattan High is one of the few schools that requires two physical education credits for graduation. As some kids are not happy about the fact that physical education is part of their day, many simply don’t realize how much of an impact it can have on a students life. When it comes to living a healthy lifestyle throughout your life, physical education tips should be a good resource for you.

“Building healthy habits and creating a routine is important,” Cool said. “This isn’t something that when the semester is over or when the year is over that you can just stop. It needs to happen everyday of their life.”

Anime Club raises money for better school Joe Hall Staff Writer

This year at Manhattan High, the Anime club has partnered with the Gay/Straight Alliance club to raise funds not just for the school, but also for other activities.

One activity, in particular, is the club’s yearly trip to NakaKon on March 17-19 in Overland Park. Naka-Kon is a large cosplay convention where fans from all over Kansas can come together and express their love for anime with costumes and games.

After speaking with special education teacher and club sponsor, Tiffany Stevenson, you could tell that the students had been excited about this conven-

tion for years and that it has been a big part of the club’s year. Anime club has had large fundraisers for this convention every year with the main purpose being to raise money for bus transportation.

The most profitable fundraiser was coffee sales. The money from the fundraiser went toward the school. For two years, the Anime club had saved enough money from these sales to add two sets of brand new water fountains around the school.

“The goal is to purchase another set of water fountains and be able to put some in not only West, but East Campus as well,” Stevenson said.

The club will continue to fundraise and push toward their goals

this year and for many years to come. With 2019 coming in a flash, the club does not have time on their side.

While it may seem like a daunting task for some, Stevenson has managed to raise large amounts of money already for the school and club under her leadership.

Even as the club consists of around 50 students, not one doesn’t enjoy giving back and having a little fun while doing it.

The love of anime has brought these kids and teachers together.

“For the kids, the cosplay convention is what they are most excited for. But we love to give back to our school and community as well,” Stevenson said.

21st Century Journalism students organized, wrote for, took photos for and designed this edition! We would like to congratulate them on their hard work. -- The Mentor Staff

The Mentor Dec. 18, 2018 MHSMentor.com

ENTERTAINMENT

5

MHS orchestra performs for sixth annual Orchestravaganza

Sophia Comas Sports Editor

The Manhattan High Orchestras came together Wednesday and Thursday night to end the semester on a more than successful note with the commencement of the sixth annual Orchestravaganza.

The concert featured performances from the Concert, Symphonic and Chamber Orchestras along with assistance from the rest of the Art Department headed by teacher Sonda Copeland and the Robotics team.

“They did a great job and I also feel a huge amount of relief because it’s done,” Nate McClendon, director, said. “The amount of work it takes to make all of that happen is insane.”

As the orchestra practiced their instrumental performances, other aspects of the show were dependent on factors provided by outside help. Without the assistance of the various art classes who worked on projects specific to the event, the concert wouldn’t have been such a success. With an elephant costume and painted marine animal along with a robotic turtle, the group put on a show vastly different from what a normal concert looks like. They even hired aerial dancer Heidi Hilton who showed her skill by

Photo By Sophia Comas

Arial dancer Hidie Hilton spins in the air to classical guitar played by Anya Wesley at the sixth annual Orchestravaganza. The orchestra’s focus on performing arts encompassed that of Hilton’s performance as she twirled above a circus created by the students below.

dancing above their heads entwined in silky fabric.

“I feel super excited and a lot of the excitement comes from when I look out and see people in the crowd that I don’t know -- people that don’t come to our normal orchestra concerts -- that’s what gets me excited,” McClendon said. “This is for the community and trying to bring

lots of people together. People that wouldn’t normally come to an orchestra concert now might come once they’ve heard what we’ve done.”

The audience was welcomed to the event by a string quartet that showered the musicians in colored light. The show then moved through the course of Act I through a series of performanc-

es, one of which featured dancers in a piece called “March of the Lions.” As the entire ensemble came to a close for a brief intermission, the audience got a taste of pure musical talent through a solo performed by junior Chris Chae who played “Stille Nacht” on his cello with other orchestra members.

“They practice super hard to

be able to do that and you want to give them the chance to go ‘hey this is how hard I can practice this is what I can do this is what I’m going to do for you,’” McClendon said. “It’s just a really good feeling so I’m excited.”

Following the Act I performances, the orchestra took up a more traditional approach for their final pieces of the night. It featured solos from both junior Allen Zhang and senior Emily Keeley, violinists for Chamber Orchestra who played “Carol of the Bells/God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen” and “We Three Kings.” For Zhang’s piece, he broke a few of his bow strings from playing so hard.

“These kids are amazing, like, that’s not a normal orchestra,” McClendon said. “Allen isn’t a normal kid, neither is Emily, neither are any of these kids. They’re all incredibly talented.”

To end the performance, the orchestra was joined by seniors Elise Jackson and Jacob Wineland for the finale piece “This Is Me” from “The Greatest Showman.”

The two singers made brought the event to a full circle through the overall circus theme. “[I’m feeling] exhilaration because the kids sounded great,” McClendon said. “They got through the show pretty well.”

Robotics Club adds their own spin to Orchestravaganza Art students enter pieces to contest Parker Dawdy Staff Writer

Meredith Graves Junior Photo Editor

The Manhattan High School’s Robotics Club made a vividly colored turtle for the Orchestravaganza VI that took place on Dec. 12 and 13. The Robotics Club made this turtle on request of Nate McClendon because he wanted a prop for every song and he thought it’d be more interesting to have a robotic turtle instead of just another person in a costume.

“We got the details of what we needed to do the week before the concert, and finished it the Monday before the concert,” Robotics officer Seth Higgins said. “It was pretty easy, since it was pretty much just moving a piston from one spot to another.”

This remote controlled turtle was another way for MHS students to show off what they can do and an opportunity to give back to the community.

One-Acts strikes hearts Julianna Poe Co-Editor

mando Alicea, being put to death by the mariner.

From there, the audience was introduced to a remix of the infamous play “Romeo and Juliet” retitled as “The Seussification of Romeo and Juliet,” directed by seniors Tess Garvin, Jayden Gittle and Jack Laswell.

In this retelling, the story is

“A lot of people are doing ‘normal’... plays versus like my group,” Finkemeier said. “[We Through creative, dramatic are] doing experimental theatre, and comical performance, the which is something completely Manhattan High Drama Departout of the box that doesn’t get like ment and Thespian Troupe 941 shown a lot in theatre.” proudly presented their One-Act “Of One Heart” featured conPlay Festival. temporary dancing and poetically Last Friday and Saturday, the spoken lines such as: “I am the one-act festival featured “The Tree and the Mariner’s ReLightning that venge” by The strikes it. I am Decemberists, the Heart and “The Seusthe Knife that sification of plunges in it.”

Romeo and This created Juliet” by Peter a dramatic, Bloedel, “Sure thoughtful efThing” by Dafect that left vid Ives, “Of viewers in awe.

One Heart” by To conclude seniors Rose the one-acts, Carter, Jess the festival endFinkemeier ed with a lightand Jamia hearted play tiRoberts and tled “Pepperoni “ Pe p p e ro n i Photo by Kaitlin Clark A pocalypse,” A pocalypse” Freshman Emmett Spaw, senior Kate Wasburn and junior Brandon Luck act out their directed by seby Jonathan scene during the One-Acts play festival. niors McKayla Dorf.

The week leading into the one- “seussified” with elements of Dr. Alberto, Marlena Hummel and acts went well as the actors and Seuss’ children’s books, creating Henry Schinstock.

According to Terry, played by actresses worked on perfecting a humorous, edge-of-your-seat facial expressions, body language, compelling show retold by fresh- senior Kate Washburn, and her lines and choreography. Anticipa- men narrators Justice Britton and group of friends, Fritz, played by junior Brandon Luck, Mchale, tion continued to climb as the fes- Lucy Dunning.

After a quick intermission, the played by freshman Emmett tival grew nearer.

“I’m most excited about seeing festival continued with a hysteri- Spaw, and Jonah, played by junior people’s faces when we tell jokes cal one-act called “Sure Thing,” Ivy Auletti, the world was going that we think are funny…” fresh- directed by seniors Grace Franke, to end in five minutes. As they man Carissa Brandt, who played Ryane Hoffman and Finn Huslig. imagined different ways the world The scene opened with Betty, could end, the pizza guy, played Juliet in “The Seussification of played by sophomore Indigo Be- by freshman Abby Smith, arrived.

Romeo and Juliet,” said.

To kick off the long-awaited langer, sitting at a table for two as The group is then driven to insannight, the festival began with Bill, played by freshman Chase ity for they believe the pizza is the “The Mariner’s Revenge,” direct- Glasscock, walks in. If the scene answer to how the world will end. went ‘wrong,’ a bell was rung and All in all, many people were ed by senior Nathan Pickands.

“The Mariner’s Revenge” was the scene started over. This made involved in making this festival a centered around the mariner, for a captivating, romantic com- reality, and not only was it enjoyplayed by junior Nathan Pauk- edy and non-stop laughter from able for not just one, but two audiences, it was also an experience to stelis, and his life’s many unfortu- the crowd.

Next, the One-Act Play Festival remember for Thespian Troupe nate events, including his mother, played by sophomore Abby Drew, introduced a unique and gripping 941. “[One-acts] are always really having died. Lyrics narrated the play named “Of One Heart,” distory as the play unfolded an ac- rected by Carter, Finkemeier and fun and everyone’s really great tion-packed and dark, constantly Roberts. Written in response to and it’s a great experience to get twisting tale that ended with the “Romeo and Juliet,” this one-act to know people better,” Belanger said. captain, played by sophomore Ar- stood out from the rest.

This year several Manhattan High School art students have entered into the MLK Show and the Early Expressions Art Show.

Though all the art has been judged and scored the MLK show will take place on Jan. 19 at the Manhattan City Building and the Early Expressions show will be on Feb. 6 at the Beach Museum.

The art classes taught by one of the art teachers, Sonda Copeland, including Drawing andPainting 2, Drawing and Painting 3, AP Art Studio and Jewelry have entered several projects to the contests. Copeland’s classes have recently been finishing up the year with acrylic paintings, ink portfolios, stained glass windows, metal jewelry rivet pieces, and pencil drawings.

One of Copeland’s students in her jewelry class, junior Ab-

bey Shaneyfelt, entered a stained glass window into the Early Expressions show and won best of 3D pieces. She finished this piece last year but still entered it into this year’s contest. The window took about two months to make.

Shaneyfelt has been into art ever since she was little and continued this hobby in high school by taking around four art classes throughout her high school career.

Another best of show winner is Ashley Savage 12 but her piece was instead 2D. This piece was entitled “Schizophrenia”.

This piece was done in charcoal pencils. She also entered a piece which was a self portrait of herself drawn to look like it was made of puzzle pieces. Savage, like Shaneyfelt, has been doing art all off her life but took several art courses in high school.

Choir in preparations for Serenades Jimmy Marshall Junior Entertainment Editor

Every year at Manhattan High around this time of the year comes the annual winter choir serenades. These performances have groups consisting of members of the Manhattan High Choir sing songs of their own selections together on stage in front of their audience. This year’s winter choir serenades will be held on Jan. 14, and many choir students are already trying out their auditions. Around this time in December is ample time to begin plans for such an event. Many students looking to prepare take into consideration their subject matter.

The essential thing needed when forming a serenade is to select a song. Choosing a song can either depend on what your

group wants, if you can find people willing to sing a specific song, or joining a group who is already singing a specific song.

“I’ve been preparing by looking through a certain number of songs that I know and pulling them out,” junior Nathian Paukstelis said.

The best course of action to take for song selection is to simply choose a song you would want to sing, rather than a song suggested to you.

Most of all, the important thing to do while preparing a serenade is to have fun, and be proud of your work as it progresses.

“It’s a way to show things that you are good of, and things that you are proud of,” senior Grace Franke said,

Interested in seeing more stories and photos from the 21st Century Journalism students?

Visit MHSMentor.com for more

TRENDING

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The Mentor Dec. 18, 2018 MHSMentor.com

Holiday Special

Christmas Through the Years: A Historical Take Hannah Le Junior Copy Editor

Christmas has been observed as a religious holiday for centuries and has been observed worldwide by non-religious people as well since the early 20th century.

In a 2017 Pew Research Center Survey, 90 percent of Americans said that they celebrated Christmas. Although Christmas originated in the Bible to honor the birth of Jesus, present-day polls have found that the role of religion in Christmas is declining for people living in the United States of America. Among U.S. adults, 56 percent said that religious aspects of Christmas are less emphasized and important in American society today, though few were bothered by it as stated by the Pew Research Center poll.

Dec. 25 is thought of and known as Jesus’ birthday, but his-

torians believe that the date of his birthday was chosen by Roman church officials around 336 A.D. Validated by history.com, Christmas was chosen to be celebrated on the 25th to correspond with other existing pagan holidays such as festivals commemorating Saturn, the Roman god of agriculture, and Mithra, the Persian god of light.

Following the American Revolution, Christmas was seen as a British custom, and therefore wasn’t commonly celebrated until around the 1840s. In 1870, Christmas was declared a federal holiday in the U.S. Putting up Christmas trees, decorating houses with lights, and giving out presents are all common traditions for Americans.

Across the world, other cultures also have unique ways to celebrate the winter holiday. In

the city of San Fernando in the Philippines, they host a festival where 11 villages compete to make the most elaborate lantern.

These lanterns that size up to 20 feet are then lit up by light bulbs.

In Gävle, Sweden, a 42-foot straw goat is built and then burnt down. Across Colombia, on the Day of the Little Candles, candles and paper lanterns are placed in windows and yards.

Today, Christmas is commercialized by many businesses. In 2015, the British were estimated by bbc.com to have spent 24 billion pounds, approximately $32.8 billion U.S. Many brands such as Coca-Cola have used the image and representation of Christmas.

And although this materialism may dampen some spirits, it’s crucial to focus on the real values and importance of this time of year and the holidays it brings.

Students Favorite Winter Drinks Bella Lane Junior Co Editor-In-Chief

As winter comes, people tend to like to stay inside, covered in blankets and watching Netflix with a nice drink. There are a variety of winter “themed” drinks. Just like in fall when many rave over pumpkin spice anything, people will do the same over peppermint.

In a voluntary poll via The Mentor’s social media, the drinks Manhattan High students preferred were Hot Chocolate, Peppermint Mocha and Eggnog. Hot Chocolate had 59 percent of the votes, Peppermint Mocha had 23 percent and Eggnog had just 18 percent.

Season of Celebrations Elisa Ohler Junior Trending Editor

December is a time full of different celebrations; Christmas being the main focus, but Christmas isn’t the only big holiday around this time of the year.

Kwanzaa is one of the many celebrations around Christmas time. Kwanzaa is more of a cultural celebration than religious as it is a celebration that honors African heritage. Quite a few people celebrate both Kwanzaa and Christmas, or only Kwanzaa as an alternative to the Christian celebration. Kwanzaa begins on Dec. 26 and doesn’t end until Jan. 1.

The celebration centers around seven principles, Umoja (unity), Kujichagulia (self-determination), Ujima (collective work and responsibility), Ujamaa (cooperative economics), Nia (purpose), Kuumba (creativity), and Imani (faith). They also have seven symbols; crops, mat, candleholder, corn, unity cup, gifts and seven candles. Seven candles are lit during the celebration, the first one is black, the second is red and the third is green. The four remaining candles alternate between red and green, which are the holiday’s colors. The seven candles are individually lit during the seven days of the celebration.

Unusual Holiday Dishes Coy Cavender Staff Writer

Over the holidays, most of us can agree that we eat a whole bunch of food. While most people eat turkey, ham, mashed potatoes, etc., some people take holiday food to another level. There are many people who make food that is extremely unusual and what many would find gross and disgusting.

One of those dishes is turkey with anchovies. The dish calls for two ounces of anchovies on top of cooked turkey. The fish then disintegrates and leaves a pattern on the turkey breast. Supposedly the anchovies add extra flavor to the turkey and surprisingly many people think the dish isn’t too bad. If you’re looking for a holiday food that will surprise you with the taste turkey and anchovies might fit for you.

Another dish is ham and banana casserole. This meal is definitely a strange combination of

Egg Nog Peppermint Mocha Hot Chocolate

Santa from around the world Parker Dawdy Staff Writer

You may know the jolly fat man that bring gifts on Christmas by names like Saint Nicholas, Saint Nick, Father Christmas, Kris Kringle, or simply Santa. The Santa you probably grew up with was inspired by the United Kingdom’s Father Christmas, the Netherlands’ Sinterklaas, the Germanic God Odin and even the Greek Myra.

The United Kingdom’s Father Christmas is a large man who wears fur-lined red or green robes. Father Christmas is the spirit for good cheer, joy, peace, and food. People leave out beer and mince pies for him instead of milk and cookies but they do leave out carrots for his reindeer. When kids would write letters to Father Christmas they would burn the letters so they could be magically transported to the North Pole.

This tradition has fallen out of

practice and now letters are sent to him via Royal Mail. Originally, Father Christmas did not bring any gifts and was a merry man who served as the spirit of good tidings but now Father Christmas and Santa are nearly indistinguishable.

The Netherlands and Belgium have a figure called Sinterklaas.

Sinterklaas contrasts Kris Kringle by being more serious, wearing a bishop’s alb and cape with a ruby ring and a staff. Instead of doing it all in one night, Sinterklaas spreads his gift giving out over a three-week span and he is celebrated by exchanging gifts on St. Nicholas Day, Dec. 6 or the evening before.

GrandFather Frost is the Russian version of Santa. Grandfather Frost was formally employed as an evil sorcerer who kidnapped children and demanded gifts as ransom. GrandFather Frost is depicted as wearing a long red or blue fur coat and caring a

Hanukkah, also known as Chanukah, is another holiday celebrated around Christmas time. This year it began on Dec. 2 and ended on Dec. 10.

Hanukkah is a Jewish holiday that commemorates the rededication of the Holy Temple in Jerusalem. There are eight days and eight candles for the celebration of Hanukkah.

Each day a candle is placed on the menorah and lit. There is a ninth candle used that is known as the shamash (helper). The first candle lit for the eightday celebration is put on the right of the menorah. After the candle is placed on the menorah, two blessings are recited, the first is a blessing over the candles, and the second blessing expresses thanks for the miracle of deliverance. A third blessing is said only on the first night of Hanukkah called the Shehecheyanu prayer. This prayer marks all joyous occasions in the Jewish life.

Christmas is known as being the big holiday of this time of the year, but there are more holidays celebrated than we realize, with some even being celebrated with Christmas as well. Although these celebrations have their differences, all are a time for joy and holiday spirit.

magic staff. He is accompanied by his granddaughter whose name translates to “snow girl.”

They work together against an evil witch who steals children’s presents. Nowadays, Grandfather Frost is closer to New Years day than he is to Christmas.

Japan’s “Santa” is an overweight Buddhist monk named Hoteiosho. He has eyes in the back of his head so he can tell how children are doing without them knowing. Hoteiosho arrives on New Year’s Eve once the house is cleaned and beans are thrown for good luck.

A witch named La Befana takes the place of Santa in Italy.

Her origin story varies but most of the locals say that she was a kind woman who gave the three wise men somewhere to sleep while on their way to see baby Jesus. La Befana is depicted as an ugly women who rides a broomstick, she is compared to the witches seen around Halloween.

She often wears a black shawl and cares a bag of gifts. She doesn’t like to be seen so when she finds some childs who were trying to spy on her she hits them with her broomstick. Like Santa, La Befana climbs down chimneys to gives good children presents and candy and gives the bad kids coal and ashes.

Unlike Santa she has a more refined taste so people leave out Italian wine instead of milk and cookies. In other parts of Italy, Babbo Natale brings gifts on the day before Epiphany, the manifestation of Christ to the Gentiles, Jan. 6. The night before he arrives, children put their shoes outside and in the morning they are filled with little gifts and candy.

Even though Santa has many different depictions throughout many different cultures he stands as a ray of joy for all and a reason for kids to be nice around the new year.

both banana and ham but many people think the dish was surprisingly delicious. Adding a fruit that is somewhat sweet like bananas will make this dish great along with ham. The bread, cream, and cheese are also added with the dish to add a little extra flavor. Those ingredients along with ham and bananas make a great holiday dish.

Pecan-apple-pumpkin pie is the next unusual dish. This dish is a dessert often served around Thanksgiving but can also be served around Christmas time.

This odd pie is divided into three steps. The first step is to layer the three fillings, the second step is to mix them together, and the third is to split the pie into thirds in the crust.

These unusual dishes will definitely give many a surprise when they first take a look at it, but some people may find out that they like it.