THE
JINGLE
TILGHMAN PADUCAH TILGHMAN HIGH SCHOOL
2400 WASHINGTON STREET
PADUCAH, KENTUCKY
BELL
MON. DEC. 19, 2016
VOL. 93 NO. 5
Holtgrewe honored as KY Ambassador by Nina Brown Paducah Tilghman senior John Holtgrewe has been honored as a Kentucky Commonwealth Ambassador. He was recognized by the Kentucky Secretary of State Alison Grimes for his demonstration of exceptional character and citizenship within the community, state, and nation. Holtgrewe is a student intern on the Paducah Human Rights Commission. He is a member of the Speech and Debate Team, the Academic Team, and the Track and Cross Country Team. In 2016, he was recognized as the Youth L.E.A.D. Student of the Year and as a Paducah Sun Teen of the Week. He is an alumnus of the Governor’s School of Entrepreneurs as well as the Governor’s Scholar Program. Recently, he spearheaded the local Mayoral Debate sponsored by the Paducah Tilghman Speech and Debate Team. The event received local and state recognition. Grimes writes, “Your work ethic to succeed is not only an invaluable asset to you, but it has a powerful, positive influence on your friends and classmates.” Holtgrewe plans to attend the University of Louisville next fall and major in mechanical engineering. He is the son of Veronica and Greg Holtgrewe.
Photo by Claire Kelly
Eight excel on ACT Davis named QuestBridge Scholar by Nina Brown
by Morgan Brewington On the October ACT, eight students scored a 30 or above composite or subsection score. Senior Caroline Meiners received a composite score of 33, and juniors Hanna Fischer and Connor Trimble earned a 32 composite score. Caroline Meiners scored a perfect 36 on Reading, and Hanna Fischer scored a 36 on the English section. Students who scored a 30 or above on the English section were Caroline Meiners (35), Vanessa Davis (34), Connor Trimble (34), Hanna Fischer (36), and Billye Mitchell (33). Connor Trimble scored a 30 on the Math section. Students scoring a 30 or above on Reading are Kiana Davis (35), Connor Trimble (35), Hanna Fischer (34), Skylar Bundy (33), Maurice Cooper (32), and Billye Mitchell (31). Hanna Fischer, Caroline Meiners, and Connor Trimble all earned a 30 on the Science section. The next opportunity to take the ACT is on February 11th, and registration ends on January 13th. Congratulations to our 30 and above club!
Senior Vanessa Davis has been named a 2017 QuestBridge Scholar. Through the program, she has received admission and four-year full tuition, room, and board to the University of Notre Dame. QuestBridge connects the nation’s most exceptional youth with leading colleges and opportunities. This year, QuestBridge reported a total of 14,491 applicants, with 5,338 advancing to finalist status. Of these, only 767 were matched with highly selective colleges and universities. Along with being ranked fifth in her class, Davis is a member of the National Honor Society, PTHS Academic Team, the Kentucky Junior Historical Society, Law Club, Interact Club, and Archery Team. She is a Paxton Scholar and was named a Photo by Sid Hancock regional champion at the Kentucky History Day competition last spring. Superintendent Donald Shively comments, “Paducah Tilghman is so proud that Vanessa has been recognized at the national level for her diligent work. I am certain that the solid foundation she has worked hard to build while in the Paducah Public Schools will serve her well as she continues her education at Notre Dame.” Davis is the daughter of Marcey and Demond Davis and the granddaughter of Ruth Ann Newnam and Jimmy Newnam. She plans to major in biology and aspires to be an obstetrician and gynecologist. Information provided by PTHS
PT students selected as Paxton Scholars by Nina Brown
Photo by Claire Kelly
Kelly is Coca-Cola Scholars semifinalist by J. Roberto dos Remedios Claire Kelly has been selected as a Coca-Cola Scholars semifinalist. She is one of the 2,000 high school seniors out of 87,000 in the nation to advance in the scholarship program. The Coca-Cola Scholarship awards up to 20,000 dollars to finalists selected by his or her individual academic excellence, leadership, and community involvement and service. Kelly is a very distinguished student in Paducah Tilghman, being greatly involved in the AP and Honors curriculum, Mock Trial Team, National Honor Society, and Concordia. She is also the president of the Beta Club and Concert Choir. Kelly serves as an Arts and Entertainment Editor as well as photographer for The Tilghman Bell newspaper. In response to this honor, Kelly says, “I’m excited and honored to be selected to move forward in this scholarship process. The Coca-Cola Scholarship Foundation places a lot of emphasis on service, which I think is great, because it’s really important for students to be involved in service opportunities.” Photo by MichaelEllen Walden
Paducah Tilghman juniors Martaj Marks, Samyra Guerin, Alexia Tyler, and Promyse Davis were selected for the 2016 Paxton Scholars Program. They are four of the six students selected for the program and were picked from a total of 19 applicants across the McCracken County and Paducah Independent School Districts. The Paxton Scholars Program is put on by McCracken County Community Career Endowment Incorporated. The program seeks to enhance the lives Photo by Claire Kelly of African American students, encouraging peer and mentor interaction, improved student self-esteem, parent and guardian advocacy, and maintenance and improvement of academic performance. Focus will also be put on a smooth transition from high school to college. Those selected for the program will receive college scholarships based on upcoming GPAs in high school and the first two semesters of college as well as a laptop upon high school graduation. Information provided by PTHS
Walden is Commended Student by Will Denton Michael-Ellen Walden has been recognized as a Commended Student in the 2017 National Merit Scholarship program. Across the nation, only 34,000 students are chosen to be Commended Students, based on their top-tier PSAT scores. This places them in the top five percent of the 1.5 million who took the test in 2015. “It’s an honor to be recognized as a Commended Student. I am glad all of the hard work I put towards the test paid off.” In addition to her academic achievements, Michael-Ellen Walden is an accomplished Speech Team member, the group leader of Concordia, and a member of the Maiden Alley Teen Scene Committee. Walden also played the main character in Tilghman’s recent production of Thoroughly Modern Millie. Walden plans to major in musical theater in college and is in the process of auditioning for colleges.
Speech Team competes in Murray Invitational
Photo by Claire Kelly
by Emery Wainscott Paducah Tilghman's Speech Team competed on December 3, 2016, at the Murray High Tiger Invitational. Senior Nina Brown earned her National Speech and Debate Association Degree of Distinction, and freshman Sammy Lambert and sophomore James Smiley earned their National Speech and Debate Association memberships and Degrees of Merit. The team placed in eight categories, with senior Michael-Ellen Walden reigning as the Tournament Champion in Broadcasting. In Dramatic Interpretation, Nina Brown placed 3rd and Michael-Ellen Walden placed 5th, and in Humorous Interpretation, Ella Bailey placed 5th. In Extemporaneous Speaking, John Holtgrewe placed 3rd; in Improvisational Duo, Ella Bailey and Nina Brown placed 3rd and Alec Wadley and Erin Stafford placed 6th; in Original Oratory, James Smiley placed 4th and Emery Wainscott placed 6th. In Program Oral Interpretation, Emery Wainscott placed 6th; in Storytelling, Reagan Davidson placed 6th.
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A Tip of the Hat... by Caroline Meiners and Darby Moffatt
What is the one Christmas present you never got? by Alec Wadley
A Tip of the Hat goes to Christmas lights. There is nothing more inspiring than driving down a lit up road at 5:30 on a chilly December night. Listening to Christmas music and driving through the Noble Park lights is one of the best parts of living in Paducah. There’s no way you couldn’t be overwhelmed with joy after passing a house that is just absolutely covered in glistening multi-colored lights. A Tip of the Hat goes to good gift givers. There are two types of people in this world: those that procrastinate and can never think of anything to get and those that have known you for a solid two weeks and still manage to find you the perfect gift. The second kind is a rare breed, one that we all long to have in our squad. These people also seem to be able to find the perfect gifts for less than $15 and manage to get all of us the gift we wanted but felt too awkward to ask for. A Tip of the Hat goes to sweatpants. When the winter blues come to stay, sweatpants chase the blues away. When you wake up and just know that today is just a sweatpants type of day, you get so much more sleep because you can hit the snooze button three times. Those days that you literally don’t care (which is most days for co-author Darby Moffatt) are made so much easier with the aid of your favorite pair of grey sweats.
...A Wag of the Finger
“I never got a swimming Dalmatian Rescue Pet.”
Amiya Jones (12)
“I never got a dinosaur like I wanted.”
A Wag of the Finger goes to Scrooges. This is Christmas, people! It only happens once a year, so enjoy it while you can or simply don’t ruin it for everyone else. Who doesn’t like cuddling up on the couch and watching cute Christmas movies or going to see the twinkling lights in Noble Park? Bing Crosby said it when he crooned, “It’s the most wonderful time of the year!” A Wag of the Finger goes to bad skin. Everyone has felt the effects of cold weather on their poor, dry face. This is almost preferable, though, to the random breakouts that seem to plague every teenager from time to time. And, honestly, who even notices? While your constellation of zits may seem like the end of your life, we promise that we haven’t even seen them. We’re more worried about our own skin troubles! A Wag of the Finger goes to getting sick. Winter is notorious for low attendance at school and not because of snow. Teachers’ tissue supplies are depleted within the first week and a half of December, which is a crime because snotty noses and watery eyes run rampant. And even when classrooms DO have tissues, they’re always the single ply scratchy brand that turns your nose red. Christmastime is the worst time to get sick, too, because you’re constantly surrounded by family who will inevitably catch a head cold from someone at school and spread it throughout the entire family tree.
“Wag of the Finger” and “Tip of the Hat” are trademarks of Stephen Colbert and his TV show, The Colbert Report. Neither Paducah Tilghman nor The Bell Staff claim any ownership of these trademarks.
Alexis Williams (11)
Keep traditions meaningful
“ I wanted a 3 DS.”
by Sarah Katz
Megan Summers (10)
“I never got a dog.”
Andrew Davidson (9) Photos by Emma Johnson
The Tilghman Bell THE TILGHMAN BELL, A PRODUCT OF THE JOURNALISM CLASS, IS AN OPEN FORUM FOR STUDENT EXPRESSION AND IS DISTRIBUTED MONTHLY TO THE STUDENTS OF PADUCAH TILGHMAN HIGH SCHOOL FREE OF CHARGE. EDITOR-IN-CHIEF: MADDIE YBARZABAL COMMENTARY EDITOR: CAROLINE MEINERS FEATURE EDITOR: J. ROBERTO DOS REMEDIOS ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT EDITORS: CLAIRE KELLY, TALIA HOUSMAN SPORTS EDITOR: DARBY MOFFATT BUSINESS MANAGER:WILLIAM DENTON STAFF WRITERS: JAMIE BLACK, MORGAN BREWINGTON, NINA BROWN, ERIKA DAVIS, WILLIAM DENTON, J. ROBERTO DOS REMEDIOS, HANNA FISCHER, PEYTON FORD, TALIA HOUSMAN, EMMA JOHNSON, SARAH KATZ, CLAIRE KELLY. ANNA GRACE MCGEE, CAROLINE MEINERS, SKYE MILFORD, DARBY MOFFATT, CHLOE QUINT, ALEC WADLEY, EMERY WAINSCOTT, MICHAEL ELLEN WALDEN, MADDIE YBARZABAL PHOTOGRAPHERS: CLAIRE KELLY, EMMA JOHNSON CARTOONISTS: MADDIE YBARZABAL, TALIA HOUSMAN, SKYE MILFORD, SARAH KATZ ADVISOR: SUSAN HANCOCK
As Christmas is quickly approaching, we find ourselves becoming more and more sentimental. Who would not cherish such a lovely time of year? When we were younger, we learned that Christmas is about the birth of Jesus. However, by the time we are about six, all we can think about is whether or not Santa will bring us a new electric scooter. Unfortunately, the holiday is less and less about your religious belief and more about materialistic gifts. Once you get to a certain age, Santa stops bringing you toys and starts bringing you clothes, so it becomes less exciting. So when we are teenagers, what do we have to look forward to? Unless you are Mr. Grinch, you most likely love Christmas, but the past few years may not have been as magical. You wake up, open presents, go to Church, eat with your family, and your day is kind of over. So you may wonder, how do I get into spirit? I'm here to tell you that you have to keep family traditions meaningful. As we get older, our schedules get busier and busier, so we don't have enough time for family. Christmas is the best time to catch up with your family. Making memories with your family through tradition is what shapes you as a child. When you have fond memories of the holidays with your family, they become more exciting. If you and your family don’t have traditions, start some this year! Whether you watch a movie together, make cookies, or read a book, start making memories so you have something special to get you through the holiday. Family will always be there for you, so spend your holiday with people who love you and the people you love. Let’s bring back the true meaning of Christmas, which is love.
Something Salty by Claire Kelly and Caroline Meiners
There are Christmas songs from almost every genre, time period, and artist. So if you don’t like Christmas music, then you’re just looking for the negative in everything. From “Mary, Did You Know” to “All I Want for Christmas is You,” from “It’s Beginning to Look a lot like Christmas” to “Under the Mistletoe,” there is a Christmas song for everyone. Denying that you love Christmas music hurts not only you but also society as a whole. You’re being a Grinch, a Scrooge. You need to be visited by the ghosts of Christmas music past, present, and future. Karen Carpenter, Mariah Carey, and whoever comes to reign the world of Christmas carols twenty years from now will feel free to give you a full run down on why Christmas music is better than you are, so you should appreciate it. If you "hate all Christmas music" or "Christmas music makes you want to barf," then you are just TRYING to be a Grinch. There are so many Christmas songs, how do you not like A SINGLE ONE?! Have you even heard every Christmas song that exists... probably not! Get a free Spotify account and search "Christmas song" in your genre of choice, and we guarantee you'll find something that you like. Besides the fact that there is Christmas music for literally everyone, classic Christmas music is gorgeous. You may profess to be a hard-hearted, screamo lover, but anyone can appreciate “Silent Night.” Even if you don’t believe in the Christmas story, the idea of a perfect being coming to Earth to save everyone from themselves is pretty great. When you’re deep, deep in your feelings, listening to Frank Sinatra, Bing Crosby, or even someone as modern as Michael Buble singing “I’ll be Home for Christmas” can either lift you out of your blues or put you even deeper in your mood, depending on how you take the lyrics. If you need a pick-me-up, singing along to “The Christmas Waltz” or “Feliz Navidad” or “All I Want for Christmas is You” or pretty much any other Christmas song can make you fly just like Rudolph helped Santa’s sleigh on that foggy Christmas Eve. We’re not trying to force our love of Christmas on you, we’re simply saying that you shouldn’t force your hate upon everyone else. If you take nothing else away from this, remember not to knock it until you try it. Writing off every Christmas song ever is a huge mistake, one that Santa wouldn’t approve of. Put your Spotify to good use and do some “Jingle Bells” research!
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Stop making New Year’s resolutions by Anna Grace McGee
2016 has been the year of many things: an epically hot summer, a traumatic Presidential election, a wifi password at Paducah Tilghman High School, and a stressful junior year. You know what it has not been? A year of completing my New Year's resolutions. Exactly five days ago, I came across a list I had taped on my closet wall. I crumpled it up, then uncrumpled it, then sighed, and then tore it up just in case. It was mortifying. I had not stayed on top of applications, toured colleges, eaten healthier, gone to the gym, or become a wizard. Wouldn't old sixteen year old me be disappointed? The thing is, I'm not alone in this. A 2014 poll by the University of Scranton psychology department says that less than 50% of people manage to uphold their listed commitment for more than six months. Forbes.com says only 8% of people manage to uphold these goals for the entire year. My grandma says only one person has ever completed her New Year's resolutions (that person being her). We make promises to ourselves without accepting the responsibility to fulfill them, perpetually letting ourselves down. Why do we even do this? Writing down your own wishes like fortune cookies isn't going to bring amount any change for the upcoming year. Admit it: you probably don't even remember your New Year's Resolutions from 2016, nor do you care. So let's stop lying to ourselves! If you want to make a change, you aren't going to just write it down on a piece of paper and hope it will come to pass. That brief feeling of good cheer and moral correctness you get from writing down how awesome you will be is going to pass. So stop saying, "New year, new me!!!" because it's really new year, same you. If you really want to make a change, GO OUT AND DO IT. You don't need the New Year as an excuse. Do what you want to do with your life right now, because what we put off today, we will put off tomorrow.
The Bell staff ranks the top 10 Christmas movies of all time by The Bell staff This year, the staff of The Bell voted on their favorite Christmas movies, ultimately compiling a list of the 10 best of all time: 1.) Home Alone (1990) 2.) Elf (2003) 3.) Polar Express (2004) 4.) National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation (1989) 5.) How The Grinch Stole Christmas (Cartoon, 1966) 6.) A Christmas Story (1983) 7.) Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer (1964) 8.) A Christmas Carol (2009) 9.) It’s a Wonderful Life (1946) 10.) Frosty the Snowman (1969)
Ice skating: tragedy befalls Paducah by Anna Grace McGee When the weather outside is frightful and the fire is so delightful, stay by the fire. Out of all Christmas traditions, ice skating may be the worst. How do I know this? Experience. A few weeks ago, with my better intellect glazed over with Christmas spirit, I got a group of friends to go out to that spectacular ice skating rink currently located in Paducah’s Expo Center. It was indeed spectacular to leave with bruises, blisters, and a definite lack of winter joy. (Turns out, I don’t have the best balance in the world.) I was overjoyed as I saw a girl fall headfirst into the chilling embrace of ice and loved the feeling of impending doom when a 7 year old braked in front of me in the overcrowded rink. As I lost the ability to move my feet from the circulation reducing skates, I realized that ice skating may have been a bad idea after all. I’m not bashing those who aren’t afraid of, say, breaking an arm or a leg or crashing and falling into pits of icy despair. If you love ice skating, I’m happy for you and respect your beliefs. However, let’s get down to the serious business. Our local ice skating rink, according to the Paducah Sun, cost our lovely little town a whopping $190,000. The amount of profit the town has predicted to gain is basically zero. It may just be me, but I think that money may have been better served to help Paducah’s growing homeless population or fixing some of the more decrepit roads in town. Of course, some sponsors did donate to the skating rink. Baptist Health (again, according to the Paducah Sun) was a major supporter. I would be reluctant to go to a slippery place that a hospital that profits off of injury sponsors, but do what you wish. If you break your neck, I offer you my fireplace and a cup of hot cocoa.
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Jones selected as Teen of the Week by J. Roberto dos Remedios Every week, Paducah Bank selects one senior from the surrounding high schools to be featured as the “Teen of the Week.” This week’s student is Tilghman’s very own student, Amiya Jones. Amiya Jones is the daughter of Lola Jones. She is the executive officer of Paducah Tilghman’s ROTC program, secretary of National Honor Society, a member of the Paducah Tilghman track team, and an avid participant in Tilghman’s Advanced Placement and Honors curriculum. She also works a part-time job at IHOP along with various community service volunteer activities. Jones comments on the honor, “At first I was stunned, but then
I was excited when I received this honor. I didn’t believe that I could do it. But now that I was selected, I want others to know that they can achieve their goals, no matter how far away they seem.” Jones hopes to attend George Washington University in Washington D.C., with Austin Peay University as her back up school, to which she has already been accepted. She also plans to continue her involvement with ROTC in college and to also enlist in either the Navy or Air Force after graduating.
Brown, Curry named Rotary Scholars Photo by Emma Johnson
by Hanna Fischer Seniors Nina Brown and Jacob Curry were named December's Rotary Scholars. Students are selected based on their service and leadership in the community. Rotary scholars have the opportunity to attend weekly meetings where they meet different guest speakers and listen to discussions about community-related topics. Nina Brown is Student Council President, FBLA Vice-President, and Pep Club Treasurer. She is also a member of Speech and Debate, Beta Club, Ping Pong Club, and National Honor Society. She is a staff writer on The Tilghman Bell as well as an AP Schol-
PT artists showcased at Yeiser Art Center by Emery Wainscott The Yeiser Art Center announced their 24th annual regional high school art exhibition, Teen Spirit, an edition sponsored by Paducah School of Art and Design. 12 of Paducah Tilghman students were juried into the Teen Spirit exhibition, some of which are displaying multiple works in the gallery. Freshmen Alexis Arellano with El Tigre and Pumkin and Emma Riley with Well, Look at You! were selected; sophomores Elizabeth Barnes with Nathan and Abstract Self Portrait, Cheyenne Toon with Hawaii, and Isabelle Anderson with Strings Away were selected; juniors Alexa Azar with Ballerina, Cherry Li with Girl in the Water, Ariana Watson with Cat Scratch and If You Dare, Courtney Glunt with This Looks Deep, and Alexandra Martin with Still Life were selected; and senior I'Asia Wright with The Gymnastics was selected.
The Yeiser Art Center received 342 entries from 10 regional high schools and home school academies. Out of these submissions, 103 pieces were chosen to be included in Teen Spirit. This exhibition includes paintings, drawings, photography, digital works, ceramics, sculpture,’ printmaking, and jewelry to put on display. Teen Spirit was in the gallery from December 4-17.
Trump appoints Cabinet by Chloe Quint
As President-Elect Trump nears his Inauguration, his transition team must make some final selections about who will be appointed to the Presidential Cabinet in January. Though some selections have not yet been publicized, here’s what we know so far. For the White House Chief of Staff, Trump has appointed Reince Priebus, who is currently serving as the chairman of the Republican National Committee and the former chairman of the Republican Party of Wisconsin. The designated Chief Strategist and Senior Counselor selected is Stephen Bannon, the former head of Breitbart News, who led his news site to champion Trump’s presidency and took a temporary leave of absence to be the chairman of Trump’s campaign. Bannon’s responsibilities will include assisting the Chief Executive Officer in developing and sustaining strategic initiatives. Alabama Senator Jeff Sessions, an early endorser of Trump, was recently appointed as the Attorney General. Sessions is a top member of the Senate Judiciary Committee and will be responsible for primary legal advisement to the government. Trump’s pick to head the Treasury Department will be former Goldman Sachs banker Steven Mnuchin, who worked as the finance chairman on the Donald Trump campaign. Trump has appointed Michael Flynn, a retired lieutenant general and the former director of the Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA), as the National Security Adviser. The designated CIA director, Mike Pompeo, a representative from Kansas’s 4th Congressional District, will replace the Incumbent John Brennan.
Tilghman students give back by Erika Davis Tilghman students participated in Tornado Alley’s Christmas and the annual canned food drive. In Tornado Alley’s Christmas, applicants fill out forms, and the ones chosen have their age and gender given to a family who supports this caring act. Funded by Chris Black of Ray Black and Sons and Jeff Golightly of Go Capital, this event usually assists 20-25 families. For one month, Tilghman students have Photo by Emma Johnson been gathering canned food for families who can use the assistance. They collected 4250 pounds worth of canned food.
Photo by Emma Johnson
ar. Recently, she received the President's Community Service Award. Nina comments, "I'm honored to have the opportunity to represent my school while simultaneously networking with community leaders and learning more about what I can do for my city." Jacob Curry is a member of Beta Club, National Honor Society, FBLA, and Ping Pong Club. He was also a member of the varsity soccer team last year. Jacob states, "It's an honor to be chosen as a Rotary Scholar. I can't wait to learn new ways to help in my community."
Band students excel by Will Denton
The Paducah Tilghman Band of Blue had several students qualify for the KMEA All-District Symphonic Honor Band and KMEA All-State Band. The students selected for the Symphonic Honor Band were Nicholas Beeny (3rd Chair Trombone), Audrianna Hughes (1st Chair Bass Clarinet), Joseph Price (4th Chair Trombone), Chris Chumbler (1st Chair Euphonium), David Goulooze (2nd Chair Tuba), and Jose Ricardo dos Remedios (2nd Chair Bassoon). Chris Chumbler went on to qualify for All-State Band as fifth chair Euphonium. On his recent success, Nicholas Beeny commented, “I’m honored to be selected and recognized among the top high school musicians in the area. It’s a way for me to grow as a musician and as a person.” Chris Chumbler, an All-District and All-State band veteran, expressed his excitement saying, “It’s an honor to take part in these bands again this year and I look forward to preforming with such talented musicians.” The six students that were selected for the All-District Symphonic Honor band were also recommended for All-State band auditions, which were held on December 10. Four students also qualified for the All-District Concert Band. Those students are Reagan Davidson (6th Chair Flute), Kristen Watkins (8th Chair Trombone), Taliyah Conner (12th Chair Flute), and Zach Tooley (1st Chair Trombone). Both bands will rehearse at Murray State University January 5-7. The final performance will take place at Murray State on the 7th in Lovett Auditorium.
Students host fund-raiser by Chloe Quint
The Paducah Tilghman Young Democrats club organized and hosted a Christmas movie party to benefit the local non-profit organization, Heart USA. The fundraiser took place at Etc. Coffeehouse and boasted a full crowd, bringing in $470 in cash donations that went directly to the charity. Over the course of the weekend, combined with an online donation drive and the profits of two other local fundraisers, Heart USA accepted $7,538 to continue their program. 100% of donations go directly to clients seeking assistance and yield about $1,500 in medicine for every $1 donation received. Heart USA, based out of Paducah, has been working for the past twelve years to assist the needy and elderly in finding and enrolling in free or reduced medication programs, as well as assisting in the overall cost of medications and doctor visits. With over 400 local clients, this organization is a staple for the Purchase Area. To make a donation, visit the Facebook page for Heart USA to locate an online donation drive. To volunteer, call 270-538-5828 to learn more and find a time to help out.
2017 ACT Prep Sessions Schedule 2017 ACT Prep Sessions Schedule For ALL Tilghman Juniors and Seniors From 2:30-4:00 Snacks and a light dinner will be provided along with transportation home along the district’s bus routes. Tuesday Thursdays January 10 January 12 January 17 January 19 January 24 January 26 January 31 February 2 February 7 February 9 February 17 February 16 Tuesday, February 21 and Thursday, February 23 will be used if there is snow. *Sponsored by the McCracken County Community Career Endowment and Paducah Public Schools
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Dickens changed Christmas
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by Anna Grace McGee Merry Christmas, Bell readers! Have you ever wondered where that phrase "Merry Christmas" originated? Its popularization dates back to December 19th, 1843, the day Charles Dickens published the book that would change Christmas forever: A Christmas Carol. As you deck out your Christmas trees this year, put your shoes into a book that you know by heart, even if you haven't read it. The Ghosts of Christmas Past, Christmas Present, and Christmas Yet to Come swirl in the eerie undertones of over 100 adaptations of the novel. I'm sure you have seen, read, or listened to at least one of these (and if not, a "bah humbug" to you), and so it's clear to see how timely the novel still is. In fact, according to broadwayworld.com, A Christmas Carol has never been out of print. Where its popularity started is way back in the 19th century. During the cold winter of 1843, the novel immediately rose to critical acclaim. Margret Oliphant, a contemporary of Dickens, said that it moved them all as if it had been gospel. As A Christmas Carol became more widespread, it spearheaded a mid-Victorian period revival of celebrating Christmas. More important, Dickens' work redefined the spirit of Christmas. The humanitarian perspective it advocates through the love of Tiny Tim, the gathering of family, and (of course) the Christmas bonus has become a key aspect of how Western culture now celebrates Christmas. It allows for anyone, regardless of religion or background, a holiday that is simply about being kind to one another. The pages of A Christmas Carol have rippled through time: the classic was read to troops during WW1 to encourage them through the winter, its ideas prompted the Queen of Norway to send gifts to crippled children with "Tiny Tim's love," and its Ghost of Christmas Present is described quite a bit like our modern day Santa Claus. It’s a book so ingrained into Western culture that "Scrooge" has entered the dictionary as an insult for those who don't embody the spirit of the holidays. Thank you, Charles Dickens, for weaving a piece of literature to thread through the culture of Christmas, and God bless us, everyone.
How the Grinch Stole Christmas is the best by Alec Wadley
Cuffing Season is in the dumbest time of the year by Claire Kelly
Everyone loves Christmas. There are so many presents, music, and good wishes all around, but my favorite part is all of the movies. There’s so many to choose from, like It’s a Wonderful Life or the always funny Elf. But almost everyone forgets the greatest Christmas movie of all time, How the Grinch Stole Christmas with Jim Carrey! The first time I ever saw this movie, and every time after that, I am always dying with laughter. From the hilarious castings, wise-cracks, and puns, this movie is my go-to Christmas movie to get some laughs. My favorite part of the movie by far has to be the hilarious casting. Let’s start off with comedy gold Jim Carrey. Carrey has starred in several hilarious movies including Bruce Almighty, Dumb and Dumber, and Ace Ventura: Pet Detective, but my favorite role of his has to be the Grinch. He perfectly plays the green and disastrous Christmas grouch. Another genius casting decision was Jeffery Tambor. Tambor, best known for his role as Maura Pfefferman in Transparent, plays the attention-seeking and slightly jerkish Mayor Augustus Maywho. Most of the jokes are hilarious and child-friendly, but some get downright provocative. Don’t get me wrong, I love all of them. My favorite wise-crack of the whole movie is when the Grinch tries to silence the Whos by hitting himself in the face with a hammer, putting nails into blenders, riding a pile driver, and shoving his head into a giant, mechanical monkey’s cymbals while they are playing. And while for some reason this movie didn’t make it onto The Bell’s Top 10 Christmas movies, I still think it would be close to number one.
Shout out to Christmas time by Morgan Brewington and Hanna Fischer Thank you, fruit-flavored candy canes, for being a disappointment in the candy cane family. Your minty cousins outshine you both in flavor and the ability to freshen breath. Thank you, Christmas lights, for putting us into a frustrated rage trying to untangle your wires. I could think of no better way to spend my winter nights than frantically searching for the right place to plug in each light and replacing hundreds of dead bulbs. Thank you, onesies, for being acceptable to wear only during the winter season. These snug articles of clothing provide the perfect excuse for lazy days. Thank you, Hallmark Christmas movies, for being a source of quick entertainment while also being completely predictable. If you enjoy feel-good movies where the guy always gets the girl and they kiss in the snow at the end, Hallmark has what you want. However, if you want a more critically acclaimed movie, change the channel. Thank you, finals, for putting a damper on the Christmas spirit for our entire last week of school. A test over everything we've learned in the first semester is a great Christmas gift, and there's certainly no pressure to do well on finals. They only count for 10% of your grade and affect your overall GPA which affects what college you get into, which affects what career you get, which affects how you do in life, which determines your entire future. Thank you, Noble Park Christmas lights, for never ever changing. A classic Paducah Christmas tradition is driving at a nearly stand-still pace through Noble Park to "ooh" and "ahh" at the same lights we did the year before, and the year before that. Don't forget to bring your canned goods to donate, too. Thank you, December ACT, for allowing me to enjoy the earliest part of winter mornings by waking me up at 7:30 to take a 4 hour test. Nothing says "Happy Holidays" like a test that affects your entire post-high school career. Thank you, snow days, for a surprise vacation day in the middle of the week. Extra sleep is appreciated. Make-up days causing school to last until June, not so much. Credit to Jimmy Fallon
Ah, cuffing season…it is upon us. All the summer flings have gone with the warm weather, and as the colder months (finally) arrived, they ushered in many, many new relationships. While some of these couples may have just coincidentally found love at this time of the year, many of the others are participating in the annual autumn-to-winter ritual known as cuffing season. For those who have never heard of this social phenomenon, cuffing season begins in November and lasts through March, and it is basically a time for people to be in relationships just for the sake of being in a relationship. In a “cuffed” relationship, one or both of the people intend for the relationship to last only through the colder months and not becoming a long-term or life-long partnership. Sitting near a warm fire and cuddling up next to your sweetheart during the holidays sounds pretty nice, right? Okay, I won’t deny that sipping hot cocoa and watching cheesy Hallmark Christmas movies with that special someone does sound wonderful. However, wonderful spending the holidays in a relationship may be, this festive season is possibly the worst time of the year to be in a relationship that you intend on ending in a few months. If cuffing isn’t dumb enough, here are some of the reasons why cuffing season occurs during the dumbest time of the year. • It’s cold outside—Even if the point of cuffing is having someone to curl up next to on the couch when it’s cold outside, cold weather is severely limiting for relationships. Cuddling on the couch may be nice, but do you really want that and ice skating to be the only things you can do together? Think of all the date possibilities that spring and summer offer—hiking, lounging in a hammock, spending the day on the lake, sight-seeing…literally anything outside. Cold weather eliminates way too many fun ways to spend your day. • This time of year is BUSY—The weeks between Halloween and the new year always seem to be hectic. If you’re a senior, college and scholarship applications seem to be the only thing on your mind. And as school wraps up before winter break, students find themselves to be bogged down with studying for daunting finals. What time you get off from school quickly becomes filled with shopping for gifts, traveling to see family, and all sorts of other holiday functions. If you’re already this busy, do you really have time in your schedule to squeeze in a relationship? Probably not. Why not try doing that during the summer when you find yourself with weeks full of free time? • Your family is home for the holidays—Meeting your significant other’s family is a big deal, and meeting his/her extended family is an even bigger deal. If you know that you are cuffed just for winter, do you really want to have to introduce your significant other to your entire extended family at one time, Crazy Great Aunt Helen included? If you decide to opt out of him or her meeting the family, you're still stuck with having to talk about your relationship over Christmas dinner, which then makes for another awkward conversation with your family a few months later once the relationship has ended. Also, if you’ve chosen to have him or her avoid meeting your extended family, that means it will be really hard to spend any time together while either of you have family in town. If you think cuffing season should be in the winter, you’re obviously wrong, but I hope your three-month-long romance works out.
Merry Christmas from the Bell Staff
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What to do in Paducah in the Winter by Caroline Meiners
The winter months in old P-Town can be dull and emotionally taxing with cloudy skies and bare trees surrounding you. Fortunately, there are several activities that can keep the blues away! Ice Skating—Most of us high schoolers remember the sketchy outdoor ice rink that came to a downtown parking lot about five years back. The ice was either bumpy or slushy, and people fell constantly. Well, there’s a new rink in town! The new indoor rink is located in the Convention Center and costs $10 ($7 to skate and $3 to rent skates). Get a group together and try your best Sarah Hughes impression! The Parks—Paducah is home to several gorgeous parks. Noble Park, in particular, is good for Christmastime. Find someone to drive you around at nighttime and look at the lights. While it’s not mandatory to bring cans, don’t be a Scrooge. What most people don’t take advantage of is the parks in the daytime. Even when it’s cold, it is important to get some fresh air! Take a hammock, some big blankets, and a book or your *special someone* with you to keep warm.
Maiden Alley Cinema—Everyone visits Cinemark during the holiday season to watch Christmas movies. Most teens usually don’t even think about Paducah’s independent movie theater. Maiden Alley shows independent films with unique cinematography and perspectives. Market House Theatre—One of Paducah’s unique gems, Market House Theatre features community members. An upcoming show this winter is HA!, a teen improv comedy group featuring a few Tilghman students: Chloe Quint, Nina Brown, and Isaac Galliher. Super Bowl—It may not be in Paducah, but Metropolis’s Super Bowl is nearby and very clean. In addition to their bowling lanes, it also features a full sized arcade. While you’re in Metropolis, stop by the Superman and Lois Lane statues! Christmastime TPing—The high school prank staple with a new twist! Instead of nasty toilet paper that disintegrates when it rains, spread Christmas cheer with shiny garlands and ornaments!
How to avoid family questions by Chloe Quint It’s the most wonderful time (for relatives to cross examine you) of the year! Aunts who traveled across the state, cousins who only reunite on this one sacred holiday, and that one awkward family friend all come together in unity to ask you the most uncomfortable questions they could conjure. This line of questioning is not only awkward, but quite stress-inducing for those of us who don’t have any answers right now. Here are some helpful tips for how to muster a response without breaking a sweat: When your great grandmother (who still believes you are living in the Red Scare) asks about your thoughts on the election, you could politely retort by: --Reminiscing on the “good old days” of Ronald Reagan’s presidency --Pretending to choke on the pumpkin pie you nervously stuffed in your mouth --Zipping your jacket shut to hide your Bernie Sanders t-shirt. In the event that your great aunt Sharon (we all have one) points out that this is the third year in a row you’ve gone stag, you might consider: --Showing her pictures of Zac Efron and swearing that he is visiting family in
Celebrate weird traditions by Chloe Quint
Each and every family has their own holiday traditions, the things that make Christmas time special for your home. Most every family has a similar cycle of things they do in preparation for the holiday season. However, this does not necessarily mean that these traditions are even slightly normal. We Americans normalize a lot of really awkward activities. For example, at this time of year, the Post Office receives an influx of holiday greetings, flowing both in and out of the mailroom. The practice of sending Christmas cards to family friends and estranged relatives is not new, but thanks to websites such as Shutterfly and Walgreen’s Photo, more people are inclined to add a perfectly posed family photo to the glossy pages of a card. This means having your entire family of six (including the dog) putting on matching red sweaters and setting a tripod up in the living room as you sit uncomfortably in front of the fireplace so your mother can prove to her coworkers that her family is truly perfect and picturesque at all times. She aims to give off the illusion that you wake up in the morning with perfectly applied lipstick and doll-like rosy cheeks, despite the fact that this only happens once a year, for maybe 5 minutes. Another strange routine commonly practiced by families is that of setting out a plate of cookies for Santa Claus. The whole clan gathers in the kitchen to create Food Network worthy decorated cookies to set on the coffee table. No one can eat these cookies; they must just sit on their specially designated platter until everyone goes to bed and their intended recipient wiggles down the chimney, allegedly after a long evening of eating cookies at every other house in the world. Assuming that Santa visits 504,225,579 homes in this one evening, this means he eats approximately 1,008,451,158 cookies per night (anidea.com). It would probably do his waist line some good to have just ONE cookie deducted from that total. But, no! They have to remain preserved and untouched by the family, cruelly taunting every visitor. These are just a few examples of the ever so strange rituals we continue each and every December. There are plenty more, from “Secret Santa” to stringing lights all across the house. Each tradition is special to your family, but let’s admit it, they are terribly strange.
What your favorite holiday drink says about you by Emery Wainscott
Eggnog: Some people hate you, some people love you. There's really no in between. Your jokes are cliché, but they still get laughs from your friends from time to time. You like to give everyone a chance. Oatmeal cookie latte: You enjoy the little things in life; it doesn’t take a lot to make your day, which is a good thing. You radiate positivity, even when you have bad days. This positivity comes from your compassion—you feel very deeply and use that to sympathize with others. Mint mocha: You like living in the moment. You definitely believe in astrology and analyze parts of your day to see if it aligns with your horoscope. You attend yoga classes weekly, squeezing in your homework when you can. Your tastes lean toward the finer aspects of life. Hot apple cider: You're a fun-loving person; your peers always feel comfortable with you. However, you don't really branch out of your comfort zone, so your experiences with life are limited, but you use that to approach the world with an open mind. Hot chocolate: You're probably a dog person. You're always there for your friends, and they can always count on you for a hug or a sweet "just thinking of you" gift. You are sunshine to the world.
Russia and couldn’t make it --Claim that you’re “working on yourself” for now --Stifle your sobs by shoving mashed potatoes in your face. Of course, your cousin from Wyoming feels the need to ask “What are your plans after high school?” Fake a smile, and choose a response: --Tell her about your completely made up plan to attend an Ivy League and study pre-med in an effort to later use your career to save orphans with Ebola --Stare blankly into space, just like you did during the last ACT --Throw up deuces to the crowd and exit swiftly. Hopefully, these suggestions will present a helpful response to all of the holiday confrontation that is inevitable in the upcoming weeks.
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Christmas Look-A-Likes by Jamie Black and Emma Johnson
Mitchell Crouch (10) Nakiya Kelley (11) Kevin Hobbs (11)
Billy “Hero Girl” “Know-it-All” The Polar Express
Jacob Curry (12)
Kevin Home Alone
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A Day in the Life
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by Erika Davis If you’ve ever gone down the back hallway, you’ve passed by Mrs. Turner’s room. For those who don’t know, Mrs. Turner is the French teacher, but who is she outside of school? I caught up with her for a bit and asked her some questions. Mrs. Turner graduated from Paducah Tilghman (Go Big Blue!) in 2005 and decided to conquer the college world at Murray State, where she graduated in 2009 with a degree in French. She then completed a master’s degree in education from Lindenwood University in St. Louis. Photo by Emma Johnson At Tilghman, she got the roll of a lifetime as Fantine in the play Les Misérables in 2005. She then got to sing in All-State Choir at Carnegie Hall in New York City. When she was in college, she got a life-changing experience when she got to live in France for 6 months. It was after she graduated college that she became Mrs. Turner. She and her husband have two beautiful girls, Avery, 4 years, and Emma Joy, 4 months. Of course, I had to ask her what she would be if she wasn’t a teacher, and she said she would be a stay-at-home mom. With cute children like hers, I don’t blame her one bit. As a mom, her life revolves around her children, and with two, there are many things to witness. The funniest thing that her daughter Avery has done is when she told her mother that she wants to be a police officer and a “gymnastics-er” when she grows up. In Mrs. Turner’s opinion, and practically everyone else’s, made up words are “hilarious when they come from small children.” With Tilghman being her Alma Mater, I asked her what the first word she thinks of when she hears the name. “Versatility- Tilghman has something to offer every single student, whether that be in sports, music, or drama.”
Dear whoever by Caroline Meiners David Hoy (10)
Parker Rowton (11) Ella Bailey (11)
Ralphie A Christmas Story
Buddy the Elf Jovie Elf Images by Google Images Photos by Claire Kelly
Dear Whoever, Christmas time is here, and while I love the togetherness of the season, family events are hard for me. My parents are divorced, and at every “family holiday” my parents start the kid battle all over again. Last Christmas, we were at my mom’s, but my dad kept guilt tripping my siblings and me about not spending the holiday with him. This year, we’re at my dad’s house. I’m glad I still have both parents, but the division makes it harder to enjoy the season. Yours, On Thin Ice Dear Thin Ice, The holidays can be hard with divided families. The most important thing to remember during the “family holiday” season is that your parents love you. Your dad loves you, and that’s most likely the reason for his guilt tripping. If your dad starts the blame game, respectfully (not angrily) request that he focus on spending time that he gets with you pleasantly. Don’t forget to tell BOTH of your parents that you love them. If family relations get strained and you can’t change the subject or convince your parent to focus on the positives, remove yourself from the tense situation and go hang out with your siblings. Remember that your parents love you and want you to have the best possible Christmas experience. Help facilitate that by being respectful and loving at all times. Sincerely, Christmas Counselor
Giving gifts this holiday season by Peyton Ford
The biggest problem of the holiday season is gift giving. Looking for the perfect present is always a struggle, and trying to find something personal yet not too expensive is time-consuming and stressful. The perfect gift isn’t too hard to find if you know where to look. Lucky for you readers, I’m going to tell you exactly how to get the best gifts for everyone in your life. Significant Other: This is a gift that should be more specific to the individual. If your boyfriend/girlfriend is into music, tickets to a concert or a t-shirt of his/her favorite band would be a great surprise. You could also snap a super cute picture together and put it in a special frame or get a cozy sweatshirt to keep him/her warm this winter. Family: Your parents will be happy with anything; treat your mother to a day at the spa and your dad could always use a new shirt. A typical younger brother would love a new video game; an older brother would love a gift card to his favorite store/restaurant. Get your younger sister the new American Girl Doll and your older sister would love a scented candle. Unless you spend a lot of time around your cousins, you probably don’t know them as well as most of the other people on your list, so keep their presents basic. Gift cards or cash would satisfy those people in your family you don’t know too well. Friends: Your best friends deserve the perfect gift tailored to their personality; they deserve it after all the times they stuck by you when you were being a brat. Buy them tickets to a music festival so you can all make amazing memories together – which is really the best Christmas gift you can get anyone. That fresh pair of sneakers your friend has been talking about for weeks would make an amazing present. Even just picking up hot chocolate and cookies from Kirchhoff’s would put any friend in the jolly holiday spirit. If all else fails, make-up is almost always a safe bet for any your girlfriends.
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Kindergartners share their lists by Claire Kelly, Jamie Black, and Emma Johnson
Malachi (Morgan): “I want an Xbox One with some games.”
Carson (Morgan): “I want a Hot Wheels track.”
Aoloni (Morgan): “I want a Barbie Doll.”
Makenna (Morgan): “I want a gingerbread house and a jack-in-the-box.”
Owen (Clark): “I want a Xbox 360, Pokemon cards, and a new bike.”
Tabitha (Clark): “I want a My Little Pony and a princess doll.”
Lilly (Clark): “I want some My Little Ponies.”
Cohen (Clark): “I want a dirt bike, an electric guitar, and a jeep.”
Keishawn (McNabb): “I want a Xbox One.”
Omari (McNabb): “I want a Xbox.
Jackson (McNabb): “I want a stuffed octopus.”
Cami (McNabb): “I want a guitar with a stick.”
Marvin (McNabb): “I want a Xbox with the San Andreas game.”
Ryan (McNabb): “I want a bike and red Play-Doh.”
Ja’kiyah (McNabb): “I want a baby-doll with clothes.”
Amelia (McNabb): “I want a princess dress, a princess doll, and a princess carriage.”
Photos by Emma Johnson and Claire Kelly
Get Christmas fever by Morgan Brewington Most would say that the day after Thanksgiving marks the beginning of the Christmas season, but for those of us who are a bit more zealous, we begin our festivities in October, maybe even September. We don’t complain when stores begin selling Christmas decorations in August; in fact, we embrace it. Here are just a few of the signs that you may be one of us—a Christmas addict. 1. Your Spotify playlist includes several Christmas songs year-round. You can’t help it; some Christmas songs are just so good, why wait all year to listen to them? 2. You think Christmas-themed activities are the best activities. Decorating gingerbread houses and drinking peppermint hot chocolate are some of your favorite ways to spend a Friday night. 3. You experience undeniable joy when hearing a Christmas song being played in a store or restaurant for the first time that year. Squealing or loud singing may occur. 4. Your Christmas spirit and countdown is in full-force the week after Halloween. Thanksgiving is just practice for the real deal. 5. You begin your Christmas list in March and start planning your family members’ gifts in June. It’s never too early to Christmas shop. 6. Your Christmas ornament collection is untouchable. The day after Christmas is your second favorite day of the year (after Christmas) because all of the Christmas decorations are on sale! This means it’s time to stock up for next Christmas. 7. Wrapping Christmas presents while blasting Christmas songs through the house is the ultimate satisfaction. Once your presents are under the tree, everyone asks if they were professionally wrapped. You’re basically the local elf. If you experience 5 or more of these symptoms, you could be diagnosed as a Christmas addict. Don’t be ashamed; embrace it. Keep on stringing lights, baking cookies, and caroling—December is finally here.
Recipe Runway by Alec Wadley Eggnog Cheesecake Ingredients: • 1 cup graham cracker crumbs • 3 tablespoons white sugar • 3 tablespoons melted butter • 4 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese • 1 cup white sugar • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour • 4 eggs • 1 cup eggnog • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract • whipped cream Let’s Get Cooking! 1. Lightly grease a 9-inch baking pan. Combine cracker crumbs, 3 tablespoons white sugar, and butter in a bowl and mix until evenly moistened; press into bottom of prepared pan. 2. Cream together cream cheese and 1 cup sugar. Add flour and beat until smooth, then mix in eggs slowly. Pour in eggnog and vanilla extract and mix until blended. Pour over graham cracker crust. 3. Fill shallow dish with hot water and place on bottom oven rack. Put cheesecake above water dish. Turn on your oven to 200° F. (DO NOT PREHEAT YOUR OVEN!) 4. Bake cheesecake for 3 hours and 15 minutes, or until center is set. Allow cheesecake to cool in oven. Place in refrigerator to chill overnight. Top with as much whipped cream as desired and serve. From Allrecipes.com
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These are the best Christmas TV specials by Sarah Katz
Glee “A Very Glee Christmas”: To attempt to get the kids in spirit, Will sends the New Directions caroling around the school to raise money for charity, but they return empty-handed. Artie discovers that Brittany still believes in Santa. To Artie’s surprise, Brittany asks Santa to restore Artie’s ability to walk, which he agrees to do. In hopes to maintain her faith, Artie convinces the football coach to go to Brittany’s house dressed as Santa and explain that this particular wish cannot be granted, and Brittany loses her Christmas spirit, but she later finds a ReWalk mobility device that allows Artie to stand and walk with the assistance of forearm crutches and her spirit is restored. Will and the other faculty members discover that Sue tampered with the faculty Secret Santa and reclaimed their gifts with the intention of donating them to the charity. The Office “Christmas Party”: It’s Christmastime at Dunder Mifflin and Michael wants the party to be perfect. The employees at Dunder Mifflin are participating in “Secret Santa” this year. Because Michael receives a Christmas bonus, he exceeds the $20 limit for “Secret Santa” and buys Ryan a $400 iPod. When Michael is given a homemade oven mitt from Phyllis, he decides the office should play “Dirty Santa.” Jim gets frustrated with the game because he made Pam a heartfelt and personal gift that she trades for the iPod. As the game comes to a close, no one really ends up with what he or she wants. The employees continue their Christmas Party with friends and family. As Pam shows off her new iPod to her boyfriend, Roy, she realizes how kind Jim’s gift was and does a final trade to get the gift. New Girl “The 23rd”: Jess is trying to find the perfect Christmas gift for her new boyfriend, Paul, but she is not sure if she should go with something sweet or a gag gift. Jess goes first in the gift exchange and gives Paul an anatomically correct plush heart of a 40 year old nonsmoker. Paul, however, gives her two tickets to the Salsburg Music Festival in Vienna, Austria. Both of these gifts are very great for each other, but clearly Jess’s kind of misses the mark. As Paul consoles her, he tells her he loves her and she says thank you. That night, Jess and her roommates go to Schmidt’s office party, where Nick accidentally tells Paul that Jess is not in love with him. Obviously, this results in a break up between Paul and Jess. To try to cheer Jess up, Nick takes all the roommates to Jess’s favorite place, Candy Cane Lane. The Suite Life of Zack and Cody “Christmas at the Tipton”: Everyone’s Christmas plans are canceled when a snowstorm pushes everyone, even a couple expecting a baby, into the Tipton. There are no rooms available for said couple, so they stay in the lobby for as long as they can. When the boys’ dad is forced to stay with their mom, Cody begins to think that they are falling back in love. However, they are not getting back together and are just getting along for the holidays. Cody is devastated when he finds out that they were not planning on getting remarried and doesn’t believe that having divorced parents follows a traditional family Christmas. As Zack attempts to cheer up Cody, they get trapped in elevator with the mother who is expecting, and she gives birth. Everyone is welcoming the new member of the Tipton, and Cody’s parents reassure him that even though they are divorced, they are still his parents and still love him, just like the new parents love the newborn child.
Six days are left in ABC’s “25 Days of Christmas” by Claire Kelly ABC Family’s “25 Days of Christmas” kicked into full gear on December 1. If you’ve missed the first 18 days of cinematic festivities, here are some of the highlights that will be showing over the next six days! Monday, December 19, 2016 Friday, December 23, 2016 •12:35pm – Home Alone 3 •3:00pm – The Nightmare Before Christmas •6:50pm – Elf •5:40pm – The Year Without a Santa Claus •8:50pm – The Santa Clause Tuesday, December 20, 2016 •11:15am – Home Alone 3 Saturday, December 24, 2016 •5:35pm – The Year Without a Santa Claus •3:30pm – The Polar Express •8:50pm – The Santa Clause •7:40pm – Elf •9:45pm – National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation Wednesday, December 21, 2016 •1:10pm – Santa Claus Is Comin’ to Town Sunday, December 25, 2016 •3:15pm – The Polar Express •1:25pm – The Polar Express •8:55pm – Elf •3:30pm – Santa Claus Is Comin’ to Town •4:35pm – The Year Without a Santa Claus Thursday, December 22, 2016 •5:45pm – Elf •5:10pm – The Nightmare Before Christmas •7:45pm – National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation •6:45pm – Elf
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Artist Alley by Talia Housman The artist honored this month is 17 painted them as animals representing year-old junior, Rivanna Woodall. She each season. To her, a fox represented has been in the Tilghman art program summer; a deer, fall; an owl, winter, and for two years and is enjoying the instruc- a bunny, spring. She wanted to make the tion and experience she is gaining from animal part of the season, so each animal it. She began her artistic career in the 6th incorporates aspects of nature. Rivanna grade and has used her acquired knowlbeen growing edge of acrylic paint to ever since. She shade and mix colors into developed her the ones that she needed passion for art for each season. her first year in In the future, Rivanna the Tilghman art would like further exprogram. She posure to materials and Photo by Rivanna Woodall enjoys explorsubjects in the art proing acrylics and using her imagination gram. After high school, she plans to atto come up with ideas for pieces. She tend Spalding University to study art. She does not have any specific inspirations; would like to develop her skill and make she just uses a collaboration of the ideas body painting her career. Tip for other artists: Don't be easin her head and the techniques she has ily discouraged. Take criticism and build learned at Tilghman. Rivanna's chosen piece is titled Four from it. Seasons. She took four volunteers and
Listen to your year
Gambino amazes by Skye Milford It’s rare for celebrities to successfully display their art in more than one form, so when Donald Glover isn’t starring in movies, writing and producing his TV show Atlanta, or doing his stand-up comedy, he’s releasing music as “Childish Gambino.” On December 2nd, after much anticipation, Gambino released his third album, “Awaken, My Love!” Glover released an app titled “PHAROS Earth” in June, announcing his album in a subtle countdown. The app is currently allowing users to watch a virtual performance of Gambino perform his first single from the album “Me and Your Mama.” The album itself is track by track a beautifully constructed work of art in the form of 11 funky, soul-grabbing songs. The album starts with the groove-filled guitar line and Gambino’s raspy vocals in “Me and Your Mama.” The spooky/ funky/magical vibe flows through the album in different ways, such as the lyrics in songs like “Zombies” or “Boogieman,” the intense bass and drums in “Have Some Love,” or even the voice distortion in “Stand Tall.” Gambino completely changed his style, shocking many fans and showing his impressive skills to make a genre change successful, going from exciting, heart-racing rap, such as “Bonfire” from his album Camp, or “Sweatpants” from his album Because The Internet, to the dark but warm feeling like in the instrumental “The Night I Met Your Mama.” “Awaken, My Love!” is the perfect album for any time of the day, no matter what mood you’re in. The album will raise emotions that you didn’t know you could feel; it’s the perfect amount of funk that you didn’t know you needed, but now know you can’t live without.
by Chloe Quint If you’re a frequent Spotify user, you’ve probably noticed the newest feature to the homepage of the app- a playlist composed of your most played songs over the course of 2016. This mix features everything that you undoubtedly jammed to on repeat for two weeks, got tired of, and forgot about. But with this special feature, all of those fleeting musical phases are revived for you to unapologetically enjoy. It’s interesting to see how your taste has changed over the year, or to see how much variety your preferences really cover. This playlist is sure to have a brief sampling of hard rock, immediately contrasted by that catchy show tune that you loved from Thoroughly Modern Millie. While indulging in the high energy pop ballads you and your friends loved for a brief period this spring, you’ll also stumble over that one song that always makes you cry. Reviewing your music choices over the year will be nostalgic, reminding you of wonderful memories as well as hard times when there was only one tune that could provide comfort. This listening journey is a wonderful way to wrap up the year and get you excited for 2017 and all of the changes that will come with it.
Pokemon returns
by J. Roberto dos Remedios and Anna Grace McGee The Pokémon franchise released their newest installments to the series on Nov. 18, 2016. Pokémon Sun and Moon have established themselves as solid entries to the series well within the first hours of play. The games are drastically different from their earlier counterparts, but don't fail to keep both old and new players entertained. The story takes place in a beautiful new archipelago region, Alola. Players can enjoy not only brand new species of Pokémon, but also new versions of traditional Pokémon that have adapted themselves to the region. Another feature to be grateful for is the Poké-Ride system, which replaces the irritating HM moves, while also providing more character interaction with wild Pokémon. More features to be excited about include related and returning characters such as Professor Oak’s cousin, Samson, and the return of previous rivals Red and Blue. Pokemon Amie also returns in the form of Pokemon Refresh, allowing players to pet and feed his or her team of Pokemon to increase their happiness and in turn each Pokemon’s battling capability. Playthrough-wise, the game is far more story-centric than previous games, giving an almost theatrical feel alongside a classic gaming experience. Not every game is perfect, and Sun and Moon both come with their share of flaws. In replacement of the classic gym battling system, the Alola region features island challenges and trials. These trials are of a similar battle hierarchy, but aren't as challenging nor rewarding as gym battles in previous titles. Team Skull is this installment's iteration of "the bad guys," and quite frankly, they don't live up to any of the other antagonists. They sound intimidating, but are no more than a shallowly crafted gang of inept grunts. Z-Moves are a replacement for the controversial Mega-Evolutions, but ended up being a more useless version, with all the same controversy. No number of flaws can outweigh how much we love this game. Game Freak has done an amazing job of creating an innovative yet classic Pokémon game.
Memorable memoirs by Chloe Quint
Yes Please by Amy Poehler: This hilarious tell all explores the life of Amy Poehler and how she made her way in the world of comedy and entertainment. While telling humorous tales of relationships, her career, and motherhood, Amy also includes lessons she has learned that are applicable to all women, no matter their age or occupation. Night by Elie Wiesel: In this horrific account of his time spent in Auschwitz at the height of World War Two, Wiesel recalls the German occupation of Hungary and the genocide of the Jewish people in concentration camps from his personal experience. Wiesel tells of being separated from his family, working alongside his father, and of waiting day by day for liberation. His account of this horrific historical event won him a Nobel Peace Prize in 1986. Eat, Pray, Love by Elizabeth Gilbert: This memoir, made famous by the 2010 film adaptation of the same name, is a true story of finding personal identity in the face of tragedy. After a heart breaking divorce, Gilbert sets out for a year long journey across the world. In her travels, Gilbert experienced new perspectives on life, spirituality, and culture that helped to heal her sorrow and foster a new sense of identity. Fun Home: A Family Tragicomic by Alison Bechdel: This tragic graphic novel tells the story of acclaimed cartoonist, Alison Bechdel, and her complex relationship with her father as she tries to recall his life after his untimely death. Bechdel focuses on identity, gender roles, and the struggles her family faced throughout her life as they struggled to hide her father’s alternate life.
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ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT
Thoroughly Modern Millie is “thoroughly” enjoyable
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by Sarah Katz On November 19, 2016, the Paducah Tilghman High School Choral Department presented Thoroughly Modern Millie. As Millie Dillmount (Micheal-Ellen Walden) enters the wonderful city of New York, she finds herself ready to take on the city with a shorter skirt and bobbed hair as she assumes the modern look of a flapper. She plans to find a job as a secretary for a wealthy man and then marry him. However, her plan goes completely awry. The owner of her dingy hotel, Mrs. Meers (Reagan Davidson), kidnaps young girls to sell to the Far East; Millie’s wealthy boss, Trevor Graydon (Tyran Fitzgerald), is not interested in her; and the man she actually falls in love with, Jimmy Smith (William Denton), doesn’t have a dime to his name... or so he tells her. She does, however, meet friends that help her climb the ladder to finding true love. These include Miss Dorothy Brown (Emma Johnson) and Muzzy Von Hossmere (Makiya Woods). The Priscilla girls (Jamie Black, Peyton Patel, Emery Wainscott, Talia Housman, Ella Bailey, and Julianna Moore) and their friend Ethel Peas (Abigail Shelby, who also plays Millie’s co-worker, Miss Flannery) welcome Millie to the city. Other ensemble members included Nicholas Beeny, Mark Taylor, Zane Birdsong, Carrie Houser, Bret Bundy, Skye Milford, Erin Kelly, Elizabeth Losher, Michaela Johnson, Kierstyn Johnson, Arielle Banks, and Addison Johnson. In the past four years, the Choral Department has put on four musicals: Oklahoma (2013), Cinderella (2014), Shrek the Musical (2015), and now Thoroughly Modern Millie. These past musicals have been more than captivating to watch, thanks to talented cast members, committed directors, and elaborate props. Because Thoroughly Modern Millie isn’t as well known as other shows, such as Shrek, the audience didn’t know what to expect. To no surprise, the cast was just as talented and just as entertaining as always. Thoroughly Modern Millie is one of those musicals you just enjoy. Even if you have no idea what Mrs. Meers’s workers, Ching Ho (J. Roberto dos Remedios) and Bun Foo (Alec Wadley), are saying, it is still amusing and entertaining. Tilghman has never taken on such a heavy dance project. Because it is set in 1922, the Charleston and tap dancing took over the dance numbers. Even though most ensemble members were not as familiar with tap compared to other styles, the cast did a phenomenal job with the complex numbers. The four leads, Michael-Ellen Walden, Will Denton, Emma Johnson, and Tyran Fitzgerald, lit up the stage. All four showcased their exceptional voices in difficult songs and portrayed their characters realistically. The Executive Director and Conductor was Matthew Hinz, and the Dramatic Director was Al Knudsen. Emi Hensel, who has choreographed many Market House Theatre shows, choreographed the show. If you didn’t get a chance to see it, you really missed out. In the tradition of Paducah Tilghman musicals, the Choral Department put on another thoroughly magical show.
Gilmore Girls Revived Movie Monthly by Alec Wadley
by Peyton Ford The Gilmore Girls, for those of you who don’t know (shame on you), is a whimsical and captivating television show that ran for 7 seasons. On November 25, 2016, the show premiere aired; there were four episodes, each taking place in a different season. The first episode took place in a magical winter wonderland; the spring, summer, and fall episodes had equally as dreamy settings. I suppose I set my expectations too high, because while I wasn’t completely disappointed, the show didn’t blow me away as I’d hoped it would. The return of almost all the major characters was exciting, yet the attempted pass of a random blond man for Tristan was laughable. Despite the mildly offensive jokes, most of the show was reminiscent of the past fast-paced humor that I adored. Speaking of adoration, Rory Gilmore was a character I treasured in the past for her passionate and ambitious pursuits; my image of her was irrevocably changed when the new episodes premiered. I expected Rory to be best friends with Malala Yousafzai or to have won a Nobel Prize, yet she was merely in a chaotic whirlwind of indecision with no real direction. Not only was her career up in the air but also her relationship was a gigantic, scandalous, and disappointing mess. While many of my hopes for The Gilmore Girls were fulfilled, many more were left to wither along with the decisive announcement that there will be no more episodes to follow. With all the ups and downs, I can’t seem to formulate a definite opinion on the premiere. The last four words rang in my ears as I closed out of Netflix, tears rolling down my cheeks. Even though the show brought some disappointments, it also brought some comfort in the continuance of the plot, and at the end of the day, I’d rather have watched the premiere than nothing at all.
We all know about the world-famous Harry Potter books written by J.K. Rowling, but what most people don’t know is that she wrote an eighth book called Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them. The book is actually a journal depicting many creatures of the magical world, including nifflers and bowtruckles. The book was recently converted into a movie, which is amazing because the actual book had no story, and the screenwriters created such an amazing story out of thin air. The movie was released on November 18, 2016. It opened up many memories about Harry Potter that even I had forgotten were there. I am not exaggerating when I say that this movie almost made me cry. The very first thing you hear when the movie starts is “Hedwig’s Theme,” so I already started off emotional. Then, the ACTUAL Harry Potter music started to play. I don’t even want to talk about what I did there... (I cried again). It made me feel so happy when they started using spells I could remember from my Hogwarts days, like “petrificus totalus” or “expelliarmus.” I was also happy with all of the casting choices that were made for this movie. With Eddie Redmayne as Newt, Dan Folger as Kowalski, and Ron Perlman as Gnarlack, who wouldn’t love it? I have no negative comments about this movie. I feel bad for anyone who didn’t see the movie because they really missed out on a “fantastic” experience. I give this movie 10 out of 10 Galleons.
Disney’s Moana is magical by Talia Housman The newest edition to the Disney princesses is Moana, an island chief’s daughter who must save her island by restoring the heart to the mother island. Moana is accompanied by her animal side-kick, Hei Hei the Rooster, and the demi-god Maui. Together they journey across the sea, discovering themselves along the way. The refreshing lack of a love interest left Moana free to explore her identity as the sea-loving chief’s daughter. This movie, with a refreshing new plotline, took box offices by storm. As she travels across the ocean, she is accompanied by songs written by Lin Manuel Miranda, Mark Mancina, and Opetaia Foa’I. These songs follow Disney’s path of the princess finding herself in a single song, but these songs in Moana have a fresh spin. They kept the audience members on the edge of their seats and wanting to know where the story was going. These masterful creations made this film so much more enjoyable. Moana is a fantastic addition to the family friendly movies that have come out this fall. It is a must-see for these upcoming cold winter days. Make sure to catch it before it leaves theaters!
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Basketball starts season off strong by Darby Moffatt
by Nina Brown
Tilghman Boys Basketball team traveled to Butler County for their first game of the season. The first couple of minutes were rough; the team was a little rusty, but JJ Reed came in and set the pace for the game. In the second half the boys faced some adversity, for the Butler Bears had clearly made some halftime adjustments, but they couldn’t keep up with Tilghman. The boys defeated Butler County 83-71 with starters JJ Reed having 19 points and 11 rebounds and Trey Workman being the lead scorer with 27 points. “He’s an extension of the coach out on the court,” Reed comments on his teammate, Trey Workman. In their first home game, the team faced Carlisle County. The team started off quick and never slowed down; the Comets couldn’t keep up. While they struggled to make free throws, their movement on the floor was tough to compete with. PT took the win 72-45. Tilghman Boys Basketball traveled to Calloway County to participate in their annual shootout where they faced the biggest school in the state, Henderson County. The team knew the Colonels would be a tough opponent, so they started out strong and finished the half 20 points ahead of Henderson. The Colonels had a stronger 2nd half, but the team’s defense countered Henderson’s athletes by communicating and boxing out. Rod Thomas aided PT in their 71-61 win over Henderson with 26 points. On Friday, Tilghman hosted recent rival, Murray High School. The game was back and forth for the entire first half, both teams had strong, experienced starters. The crowd and both teams expected a good game, but the athleticism between the teams definitely created a whole different atmosphere. In the second half, our boys continued to play their fast-paced game, but the Tigers just couldn’t keep up. JJ Reed finished with 25 points in Tilghman’s 84-58 win over Murray. Tilghman traveled to Graves County to face one of their biggest opponents of the season. Both teams definitely kept the game interesting, fighting hard for the win. Our boys fell short in the last quarter, losing 61-58. Tilghman hosted CCA for their first district game of the season. Our boys’ skills outweighed the Warriors’ allowing an easy 90-40 win. Rod Thomas had 20 points, and Tayshawn Carruthers was right behind him with 17 points.
Swim dives in by Hanna Fischer The PTHS swim team topped the leaderboard in many events during a swim meet hosted by Paducah Tilghman on December 5th. The boys’ team received fourth place, while the girls’ team finished in second. The Lady Tornado finished the meet with several race wins. Senior Tyler Fell won the 200 IM (2:19.02) and the 100 breast (1:13.06). Junior Peyton Patel came in first in the 50 free (27.05) and the 100 back (1:08.51). The relay teams took the 400 free (4:08.15) and the 200 medley (2:02.13). On the boys’ side, sophomore Caleb Fell won the 200 free (1:53.06) and the 100 breast (1:06.44). The swim team still has many meets coming up. The next meet is the Murray Tiger Invitational on December 17th. The next home meet is on January 16th.
Paducah Tilghman’s Lady Tornado Basketball has started off their season strong, led by new coach, Steve Dreher. Junior Samyra Guerin comments, “Coach Dreaher is one of the best coaches Tilghman girls basketball has had for a long time. He’s still learning about the girls as individuals but he has become a big part of our family.” Their first game of the season was a promising precursor, as they swept Dongola, Illinois 62-37 on home court. Senior Sophia Patterson led with 15 points and Tay Scott added 13 points, leading the team to an exciting victory. Next, the girls hosted Christian County. Lady Tornado held their ground through the first half, but lost their mojo in the second. They fell just short of a win after a long fight throughout the last two quarters, the final score reading a heartbreaking 51-59. Lady Tornado traveled to Hickman County to take on the Falcons. Our girls proved their strong chemistry on the court once again, trumping the Lady Falcons 62-29. Senior Sophia Patterson reached a career record, scoring 25 points throughout the game. For the final game of the month, our girls hosted the Community Christian Academy Lady Warriors. Lady Tornado quickly gained momentum, outplaying CCA and finally defeating them 72-17.
Patterson is honored by Skye Milford PTHS senior, Sophia Patterson, was honored with the Biokinetics Athlete of the Week award. Patterson plays on the girls’ basketball team. She plays the position of point guard and wears the number 22. Sophia has played basketball for nine years, including the four she has played here. She says, “I am looking forward to having a great season and learning more and more. It’s an honor to be able to lead these girls throughout the season. I hope to have a great season and prove a lot of people wrong!”
Photo by Emma Johnson
Humphrey signs to LWC by Maddie Ybarzabal Senior Isaac Humphrey has committed to Lindsey Wilson College to continue his baseball and educational career. On Tuesday, November 22, Isaac signed his letter of intent to become a Blue Raider next fall. When commenting on the college, Humphrey states, “I went on an official visit, and the campus is really nice; the baseball facility is, too. I like the small town feel at Lindsey Wilson.”
Hancock’s of Paducah Supports Tilghman’s 30 and above ACT Students