the Mentor
NEWS
December 16, 2011 Manhattan High volume 99 issue 12
page 2: Staff editorial -- Block Schedule, Cole and the City edition one, Viewer comments about senior expenses page 3: Top 10 Albums, One Acts, Top 5 on everything page 4: Girls basketball, Boys basketball, Boy swimming page 5: Holiday traditions, Politically correct holidays column page 6: Winter crossword, Lost and found
Extracurricular
Club Feast brought numerous clubs together under one roof, joining students with interests in school activities and helping the community.
Bond Together
News Briefs Sportzone
Sportzone is an interest group new to Manhattan High School this year. In its fledgling state, it’s hovering around 12 members, and President Taylor Weisman is currently trying to build membership. Students are encouraged to join if they’re interested in sports but not necessarily in participating on a school team. “It’s where people can meet new people who share similar interests,” Weisman said. Meetings will include learning about different sports of interest and getting out and playing some games every other week. Sportzone is currently planning a basketball tournament open to the school. Entry will be one canned food item, to be collected and sent to benefit the Flint Hills Breadbasket. For more information see Taylor Weisman or Club Sponsor Tim Ekart. Meetings of Sportzone are 3-5:30 p.m. every Wednesday in C-223.
medical explorers Future health care professionals are learning about the industry from current practitioners through Manhattan High School’s Medical Explorers club. Members of this club meet every month at least once and hear from various health care professionals. “We get to talk to a lot of professionals that we aspire to be like,” Junior Drew Kohlmeier said. The selection of trained experts ranges from oral surgeons to pediatricians and everything in between, giving students a chance to explore many career paths. The sessions set up for this club are designed to be hands-on and interactive to give the students a better idea of the possibilities of a future career in health care. Medical Explorers continued on page 6
Bailey Hamler photo editor Representatives from all Manhattan High School clubs met Wednesday after school for the first Club Feast that was put on by Student Council. Club Feast is an idea that was brought to StuCo’s attention a couple years ago by a former student, Bella Alonso. The big idea is to form unity and camaraderie between all the student body organizations at MHS, while collecting cans for a food drive to benefit the local Flint Hills BreadBasket. “The clubs have been totally independent this year so this is a chance for them to get together, and just socialize,” Leslie Campbell, StuCo sponsor, said. Not only is the purpose of
Club Feast to give back to the community, it’s also a nice break from the hectic finals week students have been enduring before Christmas break. And what better time to delve into the holiday spirit? “Everyone is so busy around this time of year preparing for finals, so we just wanted to give everyone a nice break and have a
bonding experience,” Junior Class President Jack HublerDayton said. All kinds of snacks and treats were brought to Club Feast, creating a potluck atmosphere with winter decorations and Christmas music to supply the entertainment. “I had a lot of fun decorating for Club Feast. It definitely got me pumped
Top: Around 65 students participated at Club Feast on Wednesday in the cafeteria. Everyone brought a food dish to share with others and a canned donation for the Flint Hills Breadbasket. Left: Club members stack their plates with the feast’s food. About 19 dishes were brought by club members to share with others who attended. Above: StuCo raised almost 85 pounds of food at Club Feast Wednesday night. Photos by Dheepthi Perumal
for everyone to have a good time,” Senior Jordyn Stephens said. Despite from busy schedules and heaping homework loads, students made it out to the event to show their support.
“At first I was a little worried about how many people were going to turn up, but I think it went well and we collected a lot of donations,” Senior Shawn Sheu said. Sheu coordinated the event.
Student-directed plays a success Performing one acts is common in most high schools that provide drama programs. Last week, the Manhattan The short plays give students a chance to direct and fund High Thespian troupe directed and performed their raise. This event also provides one-act plays in the Black Box the perfect opportunity to Theatre. With a combination test-run their plays and see which ones will be taken of monologues and six to their state conference at one-acts, the two nights of performances was a success, Wichita. One acts, as Uthoff said Linda Uthoff. The drama students, who said,” requires the actors and director to work together. It’s both had a chance to direct difficult to direct your peers, and be in the one-acts, were and commitment is also a faced with time-stress as factor. We had to cancel they only had two weeks to some of the one-acts plays memorize their scripts and because some people were organize blocking. sick and couldn’t practice The One-Act Festival enough.” included “Lights Down”, Watching from afar and “The Kissing Scene”, performing underneath “Pepperoni Apocalypse”, the spotlight are two very “The Theatre”, “Conflict”, different things. and “Eurydice L’ingenue”. “It’s a lot more The festival proved to be responsibility being a a success as the seats on director,” Senior Kristina Thursday had sold out. Armstrong said. “But as a However, the full house director, you get a chance to gave the theatre a good put a spin on things.” environment, said Uthoff. “It’s different to direct The festival has been than be directed because around for a least 20 years. Sarah Shi staff writer
you’re working underneath to see them step up and “They are the ones that pull instead of watching others come together to put on a it off. I just provide them and putting the play production.” the tools to do it. It’s nice together,” Senior Raelynn Smith said. However, the satisfaction and enjoyment that the directors and casts receive is also part of why the drama students put on the one-acts. “The cast was really cooperative,” Armstrong said. “One-acts is a fun show to put together.” “Working with actors is the most enjoyable part about Senior Raelynn Smith and Juniors Natalie Shank and Benjamin Carter perform directing,” Smith said, who in “The Pepperoni Apocalypse.” Photo by Miranda Hairgrove directed “The Kissing Scene” and was part of the cast in “Pepperoni Apocalypse” and “The Theatre”. The goal that the drama students strive to achieve is making sure that what they put on is entertaining as well as a learning experience for new cast members and directors. “The most enjoyable part about producing the one-acts Brian Burton is Orpheus, the “Best hero EVER!” in “Eurydice-L’Ingenue.” “Euryis that I’m able to see the dice- L’Ingenue” was written by Seniors Kristina Armstrong, Brian Burton. Felix Amanor-Boadu and Alumna Cara Hillstock for the Manhattan Experimental development of the writers Theatre Workshop in June 2011 and directors,” Uthoff said. Photo by Miranda Hairgrove
ONE ACTS
Page 2
December 16, 2011 Manhattan High
Hits and Misses
If you have any corrections for our previous issues, send them to mhsmentor@gmail.com and we will be happy to mention them in the next week’s issue. In the winter sports guide December 2, we inadvertently omitted names of three senior basketball players: Keaton Barragar, Jacob Sobering and Brandon Payne
Convenience in blocks country use a block schedule all year. Starting a little bit earlier in the mornings with a 45-minute advisory period and four classes a day, some are able to be released before 2 p.m. This allows students more time for sports, work or other after school activities With finals right around every day. the corner, students will be So why haven’t we followed cramming the night before, suit? reviewing for subjects they Creating this schedule for should have already learned. Manhattan High would be Luckily, they’ll get a lonmore convenient for many ger class time to take their reasons. For students who final, but if the schedule can go straight from school to change to block just for these work, they would finally have finals, why not have it yeartime to get home, change and round? maybe have a meal before Many schools around the leaving for a six-hour shift. The editorial covers a topic that is discussed by the entire staff and is written by one writer. It forms our overall opinion on the subject.
Since some don’t even get back home until late at night, the extra day for homework would be that much more useful. For athletes, missing classes for games is always difficult. But with a block schedule, not only do they have more time to make up missing work, they miss fewer classes each time. When finals come around, getting used to the new schedule can be tricky. If MHS decided on a block schedule all the time, cramming for finals wouldn’t be such monstrous work and students would have a less stressful experience.
Tweet us! Story ideas? Comments? Tips? Updates? Send us a tweet @mhsmentor. #cu@theinterwebz
Readers’ Forum
Senior expenses unnecessary Seniors August Fitch and Phillip Dix
Like so many of the other seniors this year, we have spent a good chunk of our time trying to navigate the unnecessarily intricate labyrinth that is the Jostens graduation cap and gown order form. Much like a car dealership, Jostens tries to flood its customers with such a barrage of options and accessories that when the customer does finally reach the end of the ordeal, they barely know what it is they have purchased. Even if, by sheer luck, they manage to avoid unintentionally purchasing ceptable if it goes into dating unnecesfor a feeling of belonging. sary items, There is definitely somethe bill for thing to be said about wanta simple ing or needing a significant cap, gown, other. I think that people and tassel our age are pressured to is $58.40. have a relationship because This minieverybody else does, but why mum order would a majority of students is hidden in feel that they only function the order in a relationship? Think form. The about a couple you know only way to who, after being together attain it is for five months, break up to not select and two days later they’re a single both dating different people. pre-made It’s very similar to musical option. chairs. After the music stops School Poland others have formed into icy requires couples, what if you’re the students one left standing? to attend an assembly that My main idea is this, folks: subjects them to Jostens’ don’t stoop down or go out stranglehold on the graduaof your way for something tion market, and the inflated that’s not a life essential. prices that go with it. Cherish those nights with the Aren’t there other options? girls, or the football-game-on- Yes, but unfortunately MHS the-TV with the guys. It’s not has chosen to limit its stuabsolutely horrid to be single. dents to only the most expenIn fact, according to the U.S. sive option. For us, a simple Census Bureau, 96 million Google search revealed a people in the United States multitude of more economihave no spouse. That means cal options. Each of those 43 percent of all Americans online options presented its over the age of 18 are single. information in a clear and Looks like you’re not alone friendly manner. In opting after all. for one of these, a student saves not only money, but
Cole and the City
nice thighs and rugged car.” I don’t understand this need to justify your relationship by filling those criteria. When did we become so dependent on relationships? news editor Don’t get me wrong, I’ve also dated for the wrong Recently I’ve noticed reasons: acceptance, attensome things about boys and tion and desperation. For girls in the area of relationexample, sophomore year I ship. We as couples sometimes hop onto the relation- was in a relationship with a guy for three months. It was ship band wagon for the one of my first relationships wrong reasons. that was long-term. He was Why, men, do we stoop probably the average kid, and low time after time just so we can feel that we’re in the I was mostly his opposite. I came to the conclusion I was couple car taking a drive Hit: Only three more in the relationship for the down sub-standard road? school days until winter wrong reasons. One of those Girls, why do you settle break! was attention. I just wanted for the most wretched of to have something to show guys? Boys and girls alike around, almost like a trophy. fall victim to the “need” for I broke up with him and relationships, for that faded satisfaction of “love” or feel- moved on with my life. I still swam in the dating ocean but ing of “connection,” for a I became more careful about smile at the end of the day who I interacted with and the when he or she says “miss reasons for the interaction. you so much” via a cheesy I’m not saying I’m perfect text with three to five hearts. but I changed for the better, It’s pathetic. for myself. Looking back on I’ve seen that both sexes that situation I comprehend can be very desperate for Miss: Technical issues this that “perfect” relationship. now that my actions were close to the end of the semes- You know what I mean immature, but maybe it’s a maturation process all high ter? Good timing. -- that “I’m dating the girl school students endure. Evon the varsity cheer,” or eryone needs to understand “I’m dating the guy who’s that there is a time when the forward on the soccer “need” for attention is unacteam with the 4.0 and the
Cole Anneberg
“
How did you find out Santa wasn’t real? Miss: Teachers who don’t “Stake out under the Christ- “I know my mom’s handwriting.” give reviews before the finals. mas tree and found my parents.” Jordan Jenkins, freshman New content won’t do us Maddie Volk, junior much good. “I went to the North Pole “That reindeer can’t fly and and he wasn’t there.” fat men can’t fit down chimIsaiah Koppes, freshman neys.” Seth Taylor, freshman “Who’s Santa?” Ben Clark, freshman “I made my mom tell me in “I found the gel pens he got fifth grade.” Kodi Minocha, sophomore me at Walmart.” Piper Fowler, freshman “My neighbor told me and “It was not Santa Mommy then I forced my parents to Hit: 61 degrees in the tell me if it was true or not.” was kissing.” middle of December. Adam Lease, freshman Kyle Curtis, sophomore
frustration and confusion as well. In fact, the supplier we specifically looked at gives discounted prices if their product is bought in quantities more than one. Why, then, do no students choose these easier and cheaper options? It is because our beloved school creates the illusion that Jostens is the only option. And even as we have tried to inform students about these options, they have refused, saying they do not wish to be the black sheep in the crowd, or that their parents won’t let them. We would like to offer a challenge to future graduating students and the MHS administration. Administration: we challenge you to make clear to students that there are other, cheaper, and easier methods to obtain graduation regalia. Students: we challenge you to buy these items in bulk with your friends. If enough of you buy navy blue gowns instead of cobalt blue, it won’t look like you’re different from everyone else. Accepting our challenge will save money and punish abusive business practices. In America we believe in competition, not overpriced monopolies.
Our beloved school creates the illusion that Jostens is the only option.
Question of the Week
Miss: And it’s raining.
See that barcode? Scan it with your smartphone and it will take you directly to our website!
“My mom just told me one night before I went to bed.” Sarah McCann, sophomore “I just figured it out over time.” Eva Goff, junior “I never believed in Santa. I’m Muslim.” Ibrahim Altamimi, sophomore “I figured my plastic drum set couldn’t fit down the chimney.” Taylor Stutheit, sophomore
“My teacher told me we were going to write letters “My parents told me when I to Santa, even though we all “I learned through ‘Family was nine. I cried.” knew he wasn’t real. I didn’t Guy.’” Matt Ball, freshman know.” Casey Zoeller, freshman Emma Samenus, sophomore “I was a pretty smart kid and “My parents never told me. It was more deductive reason“When I looked in the trunk I found the stash of ‘Santa’ ing.” of my parents’ car or when a presents in the closet.” Siera Haug, freshman movie I got said ‘Exclusive at Kali Killingsworth, freshman Walmart.’” “When I didn’t get a Pillow “My brother always said Sierra Newberry, sophomore Pet for Christmas last year.” ‘There’s no such thing as Krista Dix, freshman “He’s not real?” Santa.’” Claire Naranjo, sophomore Rita Bedros, freshman
“
Opinion
Corrections welcome
If you have a strong opinion about a topic relevant to Manhattan High School students, we’d like to hear about it. Send your article over to mhsmentor@gmail.com or bring it to Mrs. Nyp in room E-108.
the Mentor staff editor in chief -Lindsey Goff news editor -Cole Anneberg opinions editor -Carly Tracz entertainment editor -Shawn Sheu sports editor -Kassidy Scroggs features editor -Cat Bridegam multimedia editor -Felix Amanor-Boadu photo editor -Bailey Hamler copy editor -Jimmy Risberg circulation manager -Taylor Weisman crossword designer -Jumanna Khamis
adviser -Kristy Nyp staff writers -Sarah Shi Kori Bridegam Ben Shields Kaitlin Wichmann photographers -Melissa Birdwell Kori Bridegam cartoonist -Kori Bridegam contributing writers -Nick Bandy Dheepthi Perumal circulation -Stephan Shimkus Kristyn Baker Pixie Khan Austin Tatum Andrew Klimek
The Mentor is published each Friday that school is in session at Manhattan High School, 2100 Poyntz Ave. Manhattan, Kan. Telephone (785) 587-2114. More than 1,800 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 December 16, 2011 Manhattan High
Photo by Maddie Ross
Photo by Miranda Hairgrove
Top entertainment picks of the year Kaitlin Wichmann staff writer The year 2011 was one of groundbreaking entertainment. Three billion people tuned in to watch the royal wedding between Prince William and Princess Kate. There was the
TV SHOWS
MOVIES
Breaking Bad (AMC) Community (NBC) Boardwalk Empire (HBO) Parks and Recreation (NBC) Homeland (Showtime)
Harry Potter 8 Transformers 3 Twilight: Part 4 The Hangover II Pirates of the Caribbean 4
music
21 - Adele Speak Now - Taylor Swift Born This Way - Lady Gaga My Kinda Party - Jason Aldean The Gift - Susan Boyle
Top five
VIDEO GAMES
TECHnOLOGY Iphone 4S + Siri Kindle Fire Ipad 2 3D TV Xbox 360 + Kinnect
OF 2011
online search reveals several lists of a few entertainment aspects, including books and TV shows The Elder Scrolls V - Skyrim (PS3, Xbox 360, from various PC) websites. ManhatCall of Duty - Modern Warfare 3 (PC, Xbox tan High students 360, PS3, WII) also have opinions Deus Ex - Human Revolution (PC, Xbox 360, on what should PS3, Mac OSx) Gears of War 3 (Xbox 360) and shouldn’t have Uncharted 3 - Drake’s Deception (PS3) made the lists. One of the most anticipated books of the season was are just plain opinion. Some “Inheritance,” coverage of the death of might even be based off of the fourth addition to the Osama Bin Laden, and the certain high status individfamous fantansy book known big farewell to Oprah. ual’s opinions (Obama likes as Eragon. With widespread At this time of year the media to watch Boardwalk Empire, anticipation comes many is filled with lists that attempt Homeland, and Modern critical reviews, both positive to gauge the popularity or Family in his free time). and negative. importance of certain enLists are helpful during the “I thought ‘Inheritance’ was tertainment items and retail holidays because they can dumb. The last Eragon book objects. There are many help with gift-giving decihas already been made, and I different ways to compile sions. But not everyone didn’t love it three years ago these “Top 10” lists. Some agree with the merits of either,” said Junior Eli Redeare based off statistics, some ranking on a top 10 list. An ker. are based off sales, and same
Page 3
Photo by Carly Tracz
BOOKS Cabin Fever (Diary of the Wimpy Kid: #6) - Jeff Kinney Inheritance - Christopher Paolini Heaven Is For Real - Todd Burpo The Help - Kathryn Stockett Steve Jobs - Walter Issacson
Junior Jake Seaton, however, had an opposing view. “I thought that it was good overall. However, there were still a few loose ends that were never solved,” Seaton said. Another hot topic was video games. With so many new ones released this year, it was hard to find games that were consistent on several lists. One video game seemed to top the most lists -- Skyrim.
“Skyrim lets me fulfill my fantasy of being a lizardman livestock slaughterer who leaves jewelry at the crime scene,” said Junior Zane Hayden. The top grossing movie of the year was one of the easier ones to guess: “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part II.” Nearly all comments towards it were positive. “I thought that the last Harry Potter did a great job of summing up the whole movie and
I felt a sense of conclusion at the end,” said Junior Anna Brokesh. No matter what you choose for the top albums, there’s always going to be some sort of dispute. It’s nearly impossible to agree on the same artists, songs and styles of music. “‘My Kinda Party’ by Jason Aldean is the single greatest musical achievement of the past 20 years,” said Eli Redeker. “Susan Boyle looks similar to Jason Aldean. Except more masculine.” 2011 brought along some great new artists (Adele, anyone?) and movies, but 2012 looks nearly as promising.
Writer picks favorite albums of 2011 Winter play next project for Ben drama department my age. A year from now, I may only still be listening to three albums on this list, and not necessarily the top three. Or by then maybe I will have discovered something from staff writer 2011 I haven’t even heard of No music writer can resist yet. making a top 10 list at the I spend a ridiculous end of every year. When a amount of time listening to large publication like Rolling music. Sometimes I even get Stone or Pitchfork releases to hear albums before they their list, it’s a “big deal,” and are officially released (there landing the number one spot are advantages to working is a “real honor.” If Robert at a record store). But now Christgau put my record more than ever, it is imposat the helm of the Dean’s sible to hear everything. List, I imagine it would feel Who knows what great stuff pretty good. But, though I I missed in 2011? Some of it enjoy reading end of year I will find later, others I will lists (sometimes far too much not. when it is by a critic I like), I Why “Past Life Martyred have to acknowledge that the Saints” as my number one making of them is flawed. choice? I feel that my top Normally, a list of the three picks are interchangeyear’s best music doesn’t able for best album of the even come out at the end of year. Wild Flag delivered the the year, meaning any record most purely listenable rock that is released the last two album of 2011, and F*cked or three weeks of December Up made the most joyous will have no chance of behardcore record ever. But ing mentioned. They may EMA moved me the most technically be eligible for the with her beautiful, somefollowing year’s list, but odds times startlingly candid debut are they will be lost among full-length. She says more the shuffle unless it is a very in one song than Bon Iver’s transcendent album. Justin Vernon has been able Tastes and preferences to say on either of his two always change, especially at
Shields
records, the self-titled one being the most overrated album of 2011. I know I’ll go back to “Saints” for a long time. Like any other list, don’t take this one more serious than need be. Maybe you will find something on it that you love. And maybe you won’t. My 10 favorite albums of 2011, plus my favorite song on each: 1. EMA - “Past Life Martyred Saints” (“California”) 2. F*cked Up - “David Come to Life” (“Running On Nothing”) 3. Wild Flag - “Wild Flag” (“Romance”) 4. Pistol Annies - “Hell On Heels” (“Housewife’s Prayer”) 5. Nicholas Jaar - “Space Is Only Noise” (Specter’s of the Future”) 6. Britney Spears - “Femme Fatale” (“Gasoline”) 7. Das Racist - “Relax” (“Michael Jackson”) 8. Wussy - “Strawberry” (“Pulverized”) 9. Tim Hecker - “Ravedeath 1972” (“The Piano Drop”) 10. Stephen Malkmus & the Jicks - “Mirror Traffic” (“Tigers”)
from critics to become a mega-success, eventually winning several prestigious awards. A true crowd-pleaser, Now that the One Acts “The Foreigner” is a staple in Festival and musical have community, high school, and both concluded, auditions university theaters across the for the winter play are just around the corner. “The For- United States. The play tells the story eigner,” a comedy by Larry of two friends named CharShue, has been selected as lie and Froggy and takes this winter’s production. place in a Georgia fishing “The Foreigner” is a play that has been hugely popular lodge. Charlie is so shy that he almost always refuses to since its release in the mid1980s. It is noteworthy for its speak. Froggy insists on tellrare achievement of being an ing everyone that Charlie is from another country and off-Broadway that overcame thus cannot speak English. A initially negative reviews Ben Shields staff writer
series of comical incidents result when people feel they can speak freely around Charlie, believing him unable to understand what they are saying, one of them involving the Klu Klux Klan (yes, there will be KKK costumes). “Everyone seems to love it,” Linda Uthoff, head of the Manhattan High drama department, said. “There are a lot of characters. I’ll be able to cast at least 15 people.” Auditions are set for Monday and Tuesday of next week after school.
Subscription Form Order a subscription to The Mentor and never miss an issue again! $15 per semester Name: ____________________________________________ Address: ____________ State:_____Zip: ________________ E-mail address: _______________________________________ Phone number: _______________________________________
Please bring the completed form and payment to E-108 or mail to The Mentor!
Sports December 16, 2011 Manhattan High
Page 4
Photos by Morgan Dreiling
Sports Notes Indians smash Great Bend Taylor Weisman staff writer On Tuesday night, the Manhattan Indians boys basketball team rediscovered their offense and claimed a 68-31 victory over the Great Bend Panthers. In the game’s opening minutes it looked to be a defensive battle for both teams until a couple Great Bend mistakes allowed the Tribe to break away and score almost at will. Senior Forward Deante Burton provided the spark that was needed to send their offense flying with a dunk on the fast break. Great Bend’s offense was out of sync for a good portion of the game, allowing the Indians to take the ball and score on the fast break. Senior Guard Brandon Payne provided the pass to set up the first fast break dunk of the night. The Tribe’s next game is a road game where they will travel to Junction City to take on the Blue Jays. Tip off is at 7:30 p.m. tonight.
Wrestling dominates at home dual Taylor Weisman staff writer On Friday and Saturday, the Manhattan High Wrestling team hosted the Manhattan Dual Tournament. Manhattan controlled the tournament going 5-0 and taking first place out of six teams in attendance. Through the many matches, the team faced the challenge and controlled their emotions to calmly post wins, according to Assistant Wrestling Coach Chad Lindsley. "They wrestled very well. They won the tournament," Lindsley said. "Wrestled well top to bottom. They are solid all the way through the lineup." MHS has been successful so
far, winning all three of their meets so far this season. The Indians will have plenty to work on in practice to prepare for the meets to come. Senior Ty Suggs had a good meet. He went 4-0 individually and was a key part to the Tribe’s success as a team at the dual. "We did really well as a team," Suggs said. "But we need to work on finishing moves. Too many people get out of our moves when we try to pin them. As a player I need to work on my conditioning." Suggs is a four-year wrestler for the Indians and has become an impact player for them over his entire career at MHS. He looks to make an instant impact in his last
season for the Indians. MHS has a tradition of building a strong program, and the wrestlers continue that at their next meet. JV will compete at the Council Grove Above: An Indian wrestler competes at the Manhattan Dual Tournament last weekend. The Indians swept the tournament taking first all around. Invite at Photos by Maria Hernandez 3 p.m. today, and a.m. today. Varsity is at the Grand Island Tournament in Grand Island, Nebraska which started at 10
Swimming off to fast but good start Nick Bandy staff writer Manhattan High School boys swimming and diving started out their season fast with two meets in the same week. Their first meet was at home on Wednesday, Dec. 7. They then traveled to Olathe East last Friday. The first home meet was a three-team meet against Lawrence and Lawrence Free State. Lawrence took first, with Free State in second and MHS in third. Team members say the Olathe East meet is the team’s most competitive meet until the Manhattan Invite in February. The Indians took 12th place. The highest individual finishers were Ryan Cady, fourth in
his event, and Evan Olsen, 10th in his. Both were in the diving competition. The swimming and diving team has only two seniors and several new swimmers. Due to their experience many juniors have become unofficial team leaders in helping the new swimmers. Junior Brett Bandy says he expected the team to have a slower start with so many new swimmers. The team had its second home meet this Wednesday and the team finished in second place out of the five teams. “We were happy with how the team finished,” Bandy said. The highlights of the day were a first place finish by the IM relay and individual
Sports in pictures Freshman fall to Panthers
Left: Freshman Tavairus Richardson puts a hand on the ball as a Panther goes up for a shot. Above: Freshman Pierson McAtee looks for an open option during the game last Friday. The Freshman boys basketball team tied the game with a three point buzzer beater from Pierson McAtee. In overtime the Indians had the lead until the Panthers made a last second shot from the half court line. Photos by Brandon Barth
Above: Senior Swimmer and Diver Ryan Cady waits on the starting blocks for the 50 meter last week. Cady usually sticks to diving but he ocassionally gets up on the block to swim. Photos by Cole Anneberg
first places by juniors Jordan Deloach, Brett Bandy and
freshman Levi Jones.
Lady Indians sweep Panthers at home Kassidy Scroggs sports editor The Lady Indians stepped onto their home court Tuesday night to play the Great Bend Panthers and came away with a 56-20 victory. Head Coach Scott Mall prepared the Lady Indians for an aggressive and offense-heavy game from the Panthers. “He told us we had to play aggressive on the board, we need to work together as a team, play smart, and go out there and finish it,” Junior Katie Proctor said. Mall was proud of the defensive performance. The girls remained strong throughout the game. However, at halftime, Mall called for a push to box out on defense and move more on offense to create open opportunities for finishing. The Lady Indians finished out the game with a strong
run in the final quarter of the game. Senior Mari Jo Massanet was a reliable source for the Lady Indians as she led
“
We just need to play really aggressive because it’s a rival game. -- Crusinberry
the team in scoring with 26 points, a new season high. There were other key players throughout the game as well. “Emilie had a really good game, she had a lot of drives, she made and created opportunities for other people and herself to be open,” Proctor said. “She had a lot of re-
bounds and assists.” Now 2-0, the Lady Indians play the Junction City Blue Jays at 6:30 p.m. tonight in Junction City. The Lady Indians are focusing on both a strong post defense and offense in preparation for their game against the Blue Jays. “They are really big. They’re the complete opposite of Great Bend, so we’re just going to have to work on our post being really strong because they are really aggressive,” Senior Jenna Crusinberry said. The Lady Indians expect to come out on top with a strong finish and hope to continue the season undefeated. “If we play the way we can play, we should finish out strong,” Crusinberry said. “We just need to play really aggressive because it’s a rival game.”
Features December 16, 2011 Manhattan High
Holiday traditions vary MHS students celebrate holidays several different ways Lindsey Goff editor in chief The holiday spirit brings a different thought to every student’s mind. Whether it’s Ramadan, Christmas, Hanukkah, or just a secular family celebration, everyone can get into the spirit of things. For many Americans, this time of year the main focus is on Christmas and every other holiday is put on the back burner. That’s the case for some Manhattan High School students as well. “Christianity is the majority of the population’s beliefs. If you were to go to Israel Hanukkah would be popular,” Senior Konner Cool said. “I think that Christianity is really prevalent in America so it pushes all of the other religions back,” Sophomore Savannah Knapp said. But that’s not the case for all at MHS. “Every year my family celebrates Ramadan and Eid. Ramadan is a month-long celebration for after we’re done
T GIF
S
FO
fasting. And every year it gets pushed up a month because of the moon cycle. Eid is after Ramadan and it’s when we get presents,” Senior Jumanna Khamis said. However, the Khamis family also embraces their American surroundings. “We celebrate Christmas too. I mean we live in America so why not celebrate it,” Khamis said. Living in America means that Christmas is going to be magnified. To some Christmas means spending time with family and getting presents. “To me Christmas means happiness, love, and being there for people in their time of need,” Cool said. For others Christmas is a holiday that is meant to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. “Christmas means the birth of our savior and being with your family, and coming from a military family you never really get the chance to see everyone,” Junior Caitlyn
RH
IM
Webb said. It’s not always about Christmas day either. Celebrating the day before is also really important. “I love Christmas Eve. It means that Christmas hasn’t come and gone yet. I can never sleep that night either because I’m waiting for Santa still, and I just love the service because it’s so amazing,” Webb said. She also enjoys the little things during the Christmas season. “The Michael Buble album is one of my favorites right now. I just love it,” Webb said. Another important December holiday is Hanukkah. “Hanukkah is all about spending time with the family, lighting the candles on the menorah, and saying prayers. It’s a great sense of unity,” Sophomore Jacob Biller said. Hanukkah is a close runner-up to Christmas. However in Manhattan there isn’t much of a Jewish congregation so growing up and not
celebrating Christmas can be a difficult thing to do. “A lot of people ask me what I’m doing for Christmas because not many people know I’m Jewish so I just kind of take it as a general holidays question. It doesn’t really bother me that much anymore,” Biller said. Not many people have an understanding of what goes on during Hanukkah, either. “On the first night we get the entire family together and you get the most presents. I mean, you have to start it off strong. Then we light the first candle, play dreidel, eat latkes, and say blessings. It’s really fun,” Biller said. Whether celebrating a holiday this upcoming break or a holiday that’s already past, it seems as though family is a common factor. “You know it’s all about spending quality time with your family at the end of it all no matter what holiday you’re celebrating,” Khamis said.
iPhone 4S
GIF
Big hits every year for men are the basics: $299- $399 blanket, scarves, cologne and the latest in modern technology. However, this year pamper that man of Online and yours with fresh new ideas. in stores With the new iPhone 4S released in October this year, men everywhere were crawling to get oadway to a nearby Apple store to try it out. It has a few on: 4712 Br Nearest locati MO 64112 neat features, such as “Siri,” a voice-control feature Kansas City, St, with human-like understanding: “Do I need an umbrella?” or “Any great burgers around here?” or “Whereʼs the closest ATM?” Siri not only understands what you say, it knows what you mean. It figures out the right apps to use to find the right answer. Then, just like a personal assistant, it an$99- $299 swers you. Siri makes phone calls, sends messages, Online and schedules meetings, sets reminders and more. The iPhone 4S also has a higher quality camera in stores. and the popular Face-time, letting two people talk using the iPhone as a video-conversation device. Put a smile on that face of his this year and get the iPhone 4S for around $299- $399, depending on Sold at $20 in large retail stores the data storage available. e and lin On Another hit in technology this year to find are in stores the Beats By Dr. Dre Headphones at a price of $99 for the basic version or $299 for the better -- looking and custom version. If your man West 47th is craving the best in audio and is either active or Nearest location: 312 , MO 64112 a casual listener, these are a great investment on Street, Kansas City the fact that they are waterproof and boast high performance quality. If youʼre ever scared of getting him clothes you can go the safe route and buy him high quality clothing for an active lifestyle. One of those choices is a pair of North Face Ski Socks at $20. The thick, warm design leaves cold feet behind, especially if one of his hobbies is skiing or snowCole Anneberg boarding. Contrary to popular belief, feeling warm news editor always makes him happy even if it is a pair of socks. Illustrations by Cole Anneberg and Felix Amanor-Boadu
Beats By Dr. Dre Headphones
North Face Ski Socks
Page 5
Observe merry holidays
TS
James Weiss guest writer The holiday season is upon us, and with all the cheer of wrapping presents and decking the halls comes the less merry side of Christmas: being politically correct. Being Jewish, I spend Christmas Day like any other break day -- eating leftover Chinese food and watching movies. Many people expect me to hate Christmas or be jealous because I am left out. However, Christmas is one of my favorite times of year. It’s one of those rare times when you wish strangers on the street a “Merry Christmas” or a “Happy Holidays!” However, as the U.S. has transitioned from a “Merry Christmas” to a more politically correct “Happy Holidays,” there have been cries of taking Christ out of Christmas and suppressing freedom of religion. This is what irks me: if Christmas time is a time of merriment and cheer, why not use expressions that are all-inclusive? Especially as a child, I had no idea how
FO
RH
ER
This holiday season the gift that every woman might just have on her list is Amazo ns Kindle Touch 3G. With the free 3G wireles s option to download books anywhere withou t hunting for Wi-Fi spots and being able to hold around 3,000 books, the Kindle Touch 3G is withou t a doubt craved everywhere this season. The Kindle Touch 3G features a touch pad glare-free screen, a two month battery life and the ability to get books in 60 seconds, making it a winner as a gift or stocking stuffer at $149. Another easy choice this season for women is the hit fragrance of the 2011 year “Hip pie Chic” by True Religion. Just like the rise of the sun or the bloom of a flower, Hippie Chic leaves a lasting sense of a sweet goddess. By embracing a soft floral body, feminine fruity undert ones and a sensual sheer musk base, “Hippie Chic” is easily one of the best fragrances of the year. “Hippie Chic” sells at $79 for a larger bottle, although a smaller gift set of fragrance, lotion, shampoo, and a spray bottle is also a good choice at $79. Itʼs always safe to stay away from clothes for both sexes if youʼre on the fence about what to give. However, Gap understands that problem. Their collection is unique, elegant, and traditionally simple. This season Gap put out some of the best sweaters their storeʼs collections have ever seen. An option standing out for its unique design as a go-to sweater is the Lurex Pointelle Cardigan. With its metallic lurex knit with sheer pointelle cutouts on the front and arms, it has an elegant, sharp originality that women want to wear. The simple wearability of the item is a great way to put a smile on her face and push the butterflies away of “I wonder if sheʼd like it”? The Lurex Pointe lle Cardigan at $59.95 is a sweet option for women everywhere.
to respond to “Merry Christmas.” One time after testing out, “I don’t celebrate Christmas,” my elementary school teacher gave me a lesson on being polite. What I’ve experienced nowadays is an emotionless “Happy Holidays” followed by an explanation about them being forced to say that to be more politically correct. My question is, why do you have to be unhappy about using a more inclusive term? If I had to choose between a truly merry “Merry Christmas!” and a begrudging “Happy Holidays...,” I would choose the former. However, I would hope that in this day and age we would be able to all be merry together and say, “Happy Holidays.”
Kindle Tou
ch 3G
$149 Online and in stores
Sold in larg
e retail sto
res
Hippie Chic $79 Online and in stores.
Sold in department and
retail stores.
Lurex Pointe lle Cardigan
$59.95 Online and in stores
Nearest locati on Town Ctr, Ma : 100 Manhattan nhattan, KS 66502
Miscellaneous
Page 6
December 16, 2011 Manhattan High
Photo by Ali Rincon
Photo by Bryce Rincon
Orchestra performs Cat Bridegam features editor The Manhattan High School orchestra played their last concert of 2011 on Wednesday. Both Concert and Chamber orchestra played several pieces, highlighting their talent. “Concert orchestra played first, and it is made up of primarily underclassmen, then Chamber played and that’s mainly upperclassmen,
‘ Tis the season
then we all played together,” Senior Mason Hartsock said. Hartsock plays for the Chamber orchestra, which played some difficult pieces. “We played an interesting piece by Vivaldi and we also played two blues pieces. It was quite an interesting array of music,” Hartsock said. The MHS orchestra will have another concert on March 5, 2012, in Rezac Auditorium.
Lost Items: •4th Generation iTouch with clear purple cover and grey earbuds, food, and make-up bag -- orchestra room •Wallet -- class •Cellphone -- parking lot •Watch -- outside •Cellphone -- band room •Class ring -- classroom If you find any of these items please report them to Harold in the security office. Please remember to lock up your items. Medical Explorers continued from page 1 “We don’t always have speakers,” Junior Sophia Harms said. “Sometimes we watch videos or do activities.” The club also offers leadership and volunteer opportunities due to the fact that each activity at MHS must have at least one service project to be considered a club . Next Wednesday the medical Explorers will be going carolling and are also making holiday cards. Anyone who is interested in the medical field is encouraged to join. Contact Mr. Lamb in room E- 151.
Across 3 Add some marshmallows to this drink 4 This holiday happens after Ramadan 5 The type of tree that a Christmas tree is 7 A staff-shaped candy 9 A potato pancake 11 A Hanukkah tradition that involves this toy 12 A product of cold weather 13 You can do this fun activity once water freezes over 14 You bake these for Santa on Christmas Eve
15 The number of days that Hanukkah lasts Down 1 The month that Ramadan is in 2 This jolly man comes down your chimney 6 What you hang on your Christmas tree 8 You can light this up, but only a day at a time 10 You can build one of these when it’s cold
Congratulations K-State Wildcats and K-State Marching Band on your trip to the Cotton Bowl! Join us for these Upcoming Events:
Want to ride?
Bring this coupon in for a free lesson!
January
20-22...Concert Band Clinic...All day...McCain Auditorium
February
15...Wind Ensemble Concert...7:30 pm...McCain Auditorium
March
12...Grad Recital/Wind Ensemble... 7:30 pm...McCain Auditorium v13...Concert Band/ University Band...7:30 pm...McCain Auditorium
April
18...University Band...7:30 pm...McCain Auditorium 25...Concert Band...7:30 pm...McCain Auditorium 26...Wind Ensemble..7:30 pm...McCain Auditorium
STATE K B A N D
3841 W 69th Ave, Manhattan, KS 66503
University Bands