GRC welcomes new head football coach
West Georgia. He earned his master’s from Emporia State University in Taking what he Kansas in 2002, considers to be “the best job and his doctorate in in the state of Kentucky,” teacher leadership Dr. Steven Collins has hit the in 2011 from ground running as GRC’s new Walden University head football coach. Collins (Baltimore, MD), joined the GRC staff on completing his Jan. 23 with a meeting with dissertation the football team and a on academic welcome to the school. achievement and “His educational athletics. background and football After engaging coaching experience was a in a multitude perfect fit for GRC,” said of academic Principal David Bolen. Collins experiences, Collins feels that he will fit in at GRC turned his course and said on the day of his to coaching, a path hire, “Today is a great day to he has been on ever be a Cardinal.” since. Collins’s focus is on His first job excellence on the field and in coaching was at the classroom, and that begins Junior Chandler Dudley waits to shake hands with Dr. Steven Collins State University as now. In a recent letter sent as Malik Davis, junior, meets Collins on Jan 23., a graduate assistant. home to football players, he the day he was announced as head coach. From there, he held wrote “Games are won in the (Smoke Signals photo) a variety of assistant off season.” first rodeo. Most recently, Collins was the coaching positions at With weightlifting on assistant coach and offensive coordinator schools in Georgia before being hired on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays at Montgomery County. as the head coach of Stockbridge High during the off season, Collins plans to Prior to that, he graduated from School, where he guided the team to its prepare the team for whatever they might Liberty University with a bachelor’s first winning season in 12 years. encounter in the fall. degree in health promotions; his time “I think he brings a wealth of On Wednesdays, he will be holding there was spent in the class room and on experience on the football field as well a study hall open to all players, but the field. as in the classroom,” said Bolen. “His mandatory for those with a GPA below From there, Collins went on to enthusiasm and desire to make GRC a 6A 2.5, in order to maintain academic receive his teaching certifi cation in K-12 powerhouse is admirable.” achievement to ensure his team is eligible. health and physical education and 9-12 To do this, Collins will be keeping With 21 years of coaching science in 1991 from State University of some of the old football staff as well as experience, it’s safe to say this isn’t his
bringing in people from outside of the community in order to “build a football program that the school and community can be proud of.” With a fresh outlook and a promising past, Collins hopes to bring what GRC needs. “I’m extremely excited,” Collins told the team at the meeting announcing his hiring. “It’s an honor to be your coach. We’re going to win here.”
Senior Charlie Rogers makes a shot in the game against Montgomery County. (Smoke Signals photo)
Boys’ basketball, pg. 21
Look Inside For...
SARAH SAMS EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Q&A with new head football coach, Dr. Steven Collins
Compiled by Sarah Sams, Editor-in-Chief
What do you hope to accomplish in your time at GRC? Dr. Steven Collins: I hope to build a football program that the school and community can be proud of. Football is a special sport played by special individuals. I hope to help lead them into winning many victories and championships along the way. Are there any traditions from your previous schools that you hope to continue at GRC? SC: We are going to set our own traditions here at GRC from this day forth. There are many “Traditional Powerhouses” in 6A football here in KY. We want to join that notoriety. What is your favorite moment from your football playing days? SC: My senior year in high school, we beat a team we had no business beating. It was a game that I will never forget in that everything seemed to just work in
our favor. Plus, we beat them on their homecoming night! What made you want to coach football? SC: Coaching football is a passion and desire that God has given me. It’s something inside me as a person that wants to work with student-athletes and see them succeed. What life experiences have prepared you most for the GRC job? SC: I have been coaching and teaching for 21 years now. GRC in my opinion is the best job in the state of KY. It is also top on my own personal list of coaching tenures. Having been able to coach in other states, and even against GRC, has given me a familiarity about GRC and the potential we have here to do great things. Why did you choose teaching? SC: I have never once woken up in the morning and dreaded coming into work in the last 21 years as a teacher. I don’t know if you decide to become a teacher
The varsity cheerleaders won the 10th Region championship Jan. 22 and will compete in state Feb. 18. (Smoke Signals photo)
and coach; it’s something that chooses you. We as educators could all be out making more money at what we do, but that’s not why we are here. We want to see you, the students of today, succeed and prosper and to guide you into doing that. It’s a job with a purpose. What is your proudest moment as a football coach so far? SC: I have been a part of several region championship teams, teams that made it to the State semifinals, been given Coach of the Year awards, but the proudest moment of my career was when five years ago, I had a player that I helped coach at a school in Georgia. After his senior year, he signed a scholarship and played for Clemson University. He came Dr. Steven Collins shakes hands with back to visit me after his time sophomore Clay Richardson and personally at Clemson and simply told me introduces himself to the team. “Thank You”…..for being there (Smoke Signals photo) for him and believing in him. Student at WKU studying pre-law in He was only 5’8” and weighed his first year. He was an AP student at 170 pounds in high school, but he was Montgomery County High School last really fast. Without believing in him and year and was the top ranked student in his pushing him, he wouldn’t have had the class and gave the commencement speech experience of playing Division 1 football at graduation last year. My daughter and getting a college degree. Savannah is a senior in high school this year and will be attending college in the Tell us a little bit about your family. fall. She participates in volleyball and has SC: My wife, Shelley, is my biggest a shot at receiving a scholarship for that. supporter. Without the love and support from her, I would not be where I am Since your wife is from Mount today. She is finishing up her master’s Sterling, I assume you’re familiar with degree in drug and alcohol dependency and will be certified as a drug and alcohol the area and can easily take root here. Does that mean you’re here for the counselor this summer. I have three step long haul? sons. Brandon and Josh are young adults now. Brandon works in the steel industry, SC: I am here at GRC for as long as they will have me. This is a great place Josh is a RECON unit Marine that just to work and live, and I can see us doing received his honorable discharge after tremendous things in football for years to completing his duty this past December. come. It’s where God wants me to be. Our youngest son, Blake, is an Honors
Columbia reflects on career as coach
Makenzie Waltermire Executive Editor
After over 30 years of coaching/mentoring nearly 900 players with only three missed practices due to illness, Paul Columbia reflects on his coaching career. “Building relationships with the players and seeing them develop into successful high school students and contributing community members was the overall highlight of my coaching years,”
said Columbia. Columbia points out the following as some of his favorite memories: • ending the school’s 23 game losing streak, vs. Johnson Central, in the 3rd game of my first season (1999) • beating South Laurel, 37-36, in a come-from-behind win and beating Montgomery Co. 78-25, in 2000 • winning the first 7 games of the 2005 season • winning the district by beating
Kentucky Center for Instructional Discipline
Montgomery Co. and Lincoln Co. in the first 2 rounds of the 2006 playoffs • winning the district, with a 3-0 record, in 2009 by beating Henry Clay, Tates Creek and Madison Central • beating the Lexington schools on a regular basis • coaching the top 2 single season rushers in the 49 years of GRC football history (Ryan Williams - 2,003 yards in 2009; Pokey Harris - 1,940 yards in 2011)
Promoting student involvement, achievement
Sarah Sams Editor-in-Chief
Each school year starts with a hope of improved student behavior and consistent enforcement of school policies. Through the help of GRC’s committee of Kentucky Center for Instructional Discipline (KCID), there have been successes in both areas and continued progress in how the school runs as a whole. KCID is a cooperative between students, staff, and administrators in order to promote school-wide expectations. The students are responsible for setting the example and contributing ideas to improve the school. The staff is encouraged to enforce the student handbook and reward good behavior. “We’re trying to create a positive culture and climate,” said KCID coordinator Dustin Howard. To create this atmosphere,
student involvement lays the foundation. “Student involvement promotes leadership,” said Howard. “They recommend solutions to problems to the administration to make the school better.” Shelby Detring, senior student representative, echoed this saying, “KCID has been beneficial by getting student input and providing different angles to approach problems.” Students in KCID have suggested ideas to improve attendance, limit electronic usage in the hallway, enforce dress code, and eliminate fighting. For example, the new fight policy came about through KCID working with Principal David Bolen. These ideas have been effective in improving student behavior with a reduction of more than 50 percent in fighting and 30 percent in skipping. Although, the number of electronics confiscated has increased, said Howard, but
this is in part due to staff better enforcing the policy. Student involvement is key, but recognition of good behavior is the current goal of KCID. Staff members were given recognition slips to acknowledge students who are going above and beyond in their behavior in and out of the classroom. The slips recognize everything from being respectful and courteous to improving academic work. Positive reinforcement is the essential aspect of improving the school as a whole. Through recognition slips and prize drawings, students have benefitted in more than one way through KCID’s actions. From gift cards to Nooks, dozens of prizes were given away to students during an allschool assembly in early January. Another prize drawing will be held at the end of the school year, and there are hopes of having one sooner in the spring.
• coaching the top 2 passing yardage QBs in school history (Mason Middendorf - 2,072 yards in 2002; Andrew Dini - 2,062 yards in 2010) • coaching the top 4 receivers in school history (Travis Ervin - 53 catches for 1,127 yards and 9 TDs in 2000; Stephen Columbia - 49 catches for 979 yards and 9 TDs in 2002; Darius Skinner - 43 catches for 736 yards and 6 TDs in 2010; Corey Rogers - 50 catches for 586 yards and 7 TDs in 2010) • coaching GRC players Columbia watches his team from the who went on to successful sideline at season home game. college football careers (Smoke Signals photo) (Jacob Huber - Centre; Donnie Johnson enhance the football experience Campbellsville; Chris for the players Sharrock - Georgetown; Robert Catron - Georgetown; In addition to successes as Ryan Moss - Georgetown; Gabe head coach, Columbia was the Barrett - Murray and Auburn; receivers and defensive backs Henry Hudson - Morehead; Tristan Jones - Western KY; and coach for the GRC 1991 undefeated 4A State Championship several who are still playing) team. • coaching with my former During Columbia’s time as GRC teammates and/or schoola coach at GRC, he influenced mates (Greg Coleman, Shannon many people, students and Cox, Steve Means, and Vernon players alike. This was apparent Shearer) • coaching with my former GRC by the overwhelming support shown at the Board meeting on players (Alex Belcher, Stephon Bruton, Eric Clay, Brian Jan 17. With over 100 in attendance, many expressed their Denham, Jerome Embry, Bob Howard, Donnie Johnson, Tony personal praise for Columbia. “If a GRC student came Lanning, Rick Mitchell, Randy out for football, we found a Palmer, Jasper Perkins, James uniform for him,” said ColumStults, and Danny Thomas) bia. • coaching with my other assisFor the past 30 years, it has tants (John Atkins, Terry been about being there for the Decapio, Dustin Howard, Mifootball players, and this is the chael Jones and BJ Wasson) legacy he will leave behind. • working with a dedicated core group of parents each season to
Senior
Last Names K-Q
Seniors: Keep senioritis in moderation so it doesn’t ruin your future plans! Juniors: Connect with employers and recruiters if you wish to pursue a vocational or military path after high school. Sophomores: Take the ACT for the first time for experience. Robbyn Detring Freshmen: Develop relationships with your teachers and counselors. We’re here to help you!
Lizzy
Last Names E-J
Eric Osborn
Jamie Keene
Seniors: I wish you the best as you finish this year and in the future. We are always here for you. Have fun, and make memories! Juniors: It is important that you begin/continue to plan for your senior year and beyond. Sophomores: Take advantage of the end-of-course reviews as you prepare for those assessments. Also, you will be looked upon for leadership for the underclassmen next year. Freshmen: What you do this year is a great indicator for the future. Let’s keep our expectations and goals high and do great things.
Seniors: Many memories have been made throughout our time together, and there are still many to be made. I know everyone is thinking the same thing: Get us out of here! Juniors: I suggest to take a only few challenging courses next year as a senior, because you’ll want to do more things with friends. Sophomores: Take a lot of AP classes next year. Junior year is the hardest, but after the AP tests you get a break. I really enjoyed AP Art History and AP US History. Freshmen: Try to conform to what the juniors Snowden and seniors do. Prepare for sophomore year and the responsibility and growing up.
Last Names R-Z
Lisa Sharp
Seniors: Research scholarship opportunities. Juniors: Finish the year strong to market yourself for your future college career. Sophomores: Learn about GSP/GSA opportunities for junior year. Freshmen: Take nonrequired end-of-course tests seriously.
Page compiled and designed by Shelby Detring
Seniors: Continue working hard in your classes. Finish strong, and make wise choices this spring! Juniors: Prepare for the ACT in March with online ACT Prep Tool and other available preparation classes. Sophomores: Interview some people who work in your career area of interest. Freshmen: Read, read, read!
Seniors: Complete the FAFSA, and HAVE FUN! It’s your last year of high school. Juniors: Know how many credits you have now and how many are needed for graduation. Sophomores: Utilize the PLAN test to see what areas you need to improve for college/career readiness. Elton Parish Freshmen: Your cumulative GPA this year is a major factor in starting your high school career on a positive note.
Seniors: Senior year has definitely been the best. It’s good being “top-dog” and I am enjoying every day left while eagerly looking forward to the future. Juniors: Junior year is the toughest, but I advise taking as many AP classes as possible and to really stay on top of your grades! You will appreciate a high GPA and class rank when you’re applying to colleges next year. Sophomores: Start taking AP classes that are available along with studying for the most important test of your high school career - the ACT. Freshmen: Get involved in all you can like FCA, BETA Club, sports teams, etc. These activities are a Logan McQuerry great way to meet people and will develop important leadership skills that colleges will be looking for.
Senior
Last Names A-D
Experience counts: Students get valuable advice
Want an ad in Smoke Signals? Contact our advertising representatives Kayla Harrison and Kelsey May
Free Ballroom Dance for Youth
Tuesdays, Mar. 13 - May 8. 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. (No class Apr. 3) For ages 14 - 18, high school students ONLY. Dance etiquette, ballroom dance techniques, and choreography will be taught. Swing and cha-cha will get you started. Contemporary music will be the background for this FUN experience. Parents are encouraged to attend as chaperones. Co-sponsored by Parks & Recreation. College Park Library, 36 Wheeler Avenue. Main oor. No charge.
Staff Satire
Mysterious epidemic taking over GRC fourth-years
Shelby Detring Executive Editor
Bird Flu. Mad Cow. H1N1. Many illnesses have captivated the country and caused wide panic, but never has George Rogers Clark experienced its own incurable pandemic. Currently, in the very halls innocent GRC students roam and call home, a dangerous and mysterious disease is captivating and overtaking the school’s population of fourth-years… Senioritis. The symptoms of this illness are easy to spot. Of these noticeable symptoms, the first to arise is the increase of pairs of sweatpants in one’s closet. With this increase stands a growth in the number of days a student may sport sweatpants, t-shirts, and even pajamas to school. Recently, this symptom – sweatpantitis – hit its height with a school wide “Pajama Day.” After this Pajama Day, the problem of
senioritis and sweatpantitis was made known and forced its way into administrators’ agendas of problems to fix at GRC. Of these administrators concerned with this school-wide disease is Senior Class President Alexis Warner. Warner, however, believes senioritis is not as bad as many may think. “I feel that the problem of senioritis is not a problem at all,” Warner explained. “Staying healthy and away from senioritis is a matter of self-discipline, going to bed early and waking up even earlier, and eating a good wholesome breakfast, lunch and dinner.” Warner believes these tid-bits are the “key ingredients to success.” Although the Senior Class President seems nonchalant about senioritis at George Rogers Clark, specific cases and other facts point otherwise. One of these specific cases is GRC’s own senior, Kelsie Parido. With over 18 tardies and a daily uniform of sweatpants and
t-shirts, senioritis-striken Parido may be GRC’s worse case of the illness yet, but there seems to be no cure. “I’ve been to the doctor many times, but no one can really diagnose me, because my illness is so extreme,” Parido reflected. Along with 18 tardies so far in the year, Parido’s symptoms include fatigue, an increased appetite, confusion, and a drop in GPA from a 4.2 to a 3.6. Smoke Signals reached out to GRC assistant principal Jamie Keene about this specific and serious case of senioritis. “Does she even go here?” Keene asked without other comment. This epidemic has swept over the senior Cardinals, and in recent events, underclassmen are even contracting the disease. It may be too late to save 12th graders, but many healthy students and GRC faculty members agree that a cure for senioritis must be found to save George Rogers Clark’s future generations.
Senior Class President Alexis Warner checks senior Kelsie Parido’s pulse as Parido suffers from a mysterious ailment. (Photo by Julie Willian)
Censoring the Internet? That’s SOPA-thetic
Since the year, 2000, the United States unemployment rate has risen nearly 6%. This statistic seems like a surprisingly small number of citizens prior to further research, but when dissected, that unemployment rate is the equivalent of about 18 million people. With such a high amount of fuss over the economy in these “tough times,” it would make sense that the government would try everything in their power to create jobs. As expected, when the exact opposite happens and career opportunities are pulled beneath the feet of hardworking entrepreneurs, confusion sets in. In October of 2011, Texas congressional representative, Lamar Smith, proposed a bill that would give the U.S. government and copyright holders the authority to press court orders against any business or individual who proceeds to use pirated and counterfeit intellectual property. In simpler
words, anyone who has ever posted a video on YouTube with any music that does not belong to them, publicly used a brand (Apple, Nike, etc.) in a video, or credited themselves online for any information that didn’t come from their own research could face penalties in the court system through the Stop Online Piracy Act (SOPA). This bill is a spin-off of a previous bill, Protect IP Act (PIPA) that was approved in October of 2008, but was not as disciplinary as the SOPA. PIPA has held a tight enough grip on censored situations on the internet. A new bill is not only unnecessary, but poses threats on the already low amount of available jobs in the United States. The only sect of our economy that is in great shape right now is web-based technology. This includes entrepreneurs that have earned sponsorships through websites, tech-savvy operators, and
other technology marketing professionals who are passionate about what they do. If the SOPA is approved, a great number of these jobs will vanish. There will be no need for any technology support systems when the internet is virtually no longer fully available. With no jobs, that unemployment rate is expected to rise once again. The internet is clearly not broken, so why fix it? Many talented people such as musicians and actors have taken to the internet as an opportunity to showcase all that they have to offer. Some have been successful enough that websites like YouTube have chosen to “sponsor” them, or pay them for uploading content. Shay Butler (an online video comedian) and his wife, Collette, along with their four children receive every bit of income via the sponsorship. With every subscriber they get, YouTube pays them more. With
the internet at risk of being With families in need and censored, Shay unemployment rates and his family on the rise, it would are in danger only make sense of losing that the government their source would create jobs of income. instead of destroying They have also them. Alongside the been known destruction of the for singing or fundamental basis dancing to the of the internet in the latest hit on United States, SOPA the radio in will take away from some of their thousands of webvideos. Because based entrepreneurs they did not and leave them gain proper jobless. If other Kelsey White permission jobs were available in Expressions Editor this economy, SOPA before using these songs, may potentially be the Butler’s could face serious a productive idea, but that’s penalty through court of law. not the case. This bill is a Many other YouTube users, ridiculous idea that has not Google advocates, and other thoroughly been examined by web-based employees are in our government. It is in our the same situation as Shay and best interest that we leave the his family, and our government internet the way it is and not seems to be oblivious to the bother fixing something that struggles they may face. isn’t broken in the first place.
The Bottom Line
Martin Luther King Jr. Day: A reminder to dream
Kaylee Raymer Viewpoints Editor
Every year since 1986, on the third Monday of January, banks shut down, post offices halt services, and schools are closed. Though it has become overlooked, Martin Luther King Jr. Day is much more than just the end of a three-day weekend, and Martin Luther King Jr. was much more than just a man with a dream. The celebration of Martin Luther King Jr. Day is a time to not only thank and pay respects to an exceptional individual and his non-violent quest for equality, but also a time to recognize and
give thanks for the progress we have made toward realizing his dreams. While it is obvious that we have made strides, equality is still something that has not been completely reached. Closedmindedness and ignorance are to blame. Contrary to popular belief, Martin Luther King Jr. Day isn’t a day for just African Americans. It is for everyone.
If you attend a Martin Luther King Jr. march in any city across the nation, you will see that for yourself. The marches are true reflections of King’s dream with a mixture of all races, ages, and backgrounds singing, walking, and coming together for the same purpose—to celebrate him and his unfinished dream. The bottom line is this: The
name “Martin Luther King Jr.” is one that we have heard in history class since before we can remember. However, it seems many have lost sight of his true message. King was arguably the biggest advocate for equality that our nation has ever known. He did more than just vocalize his beliefs, he acted upon them. Ultimately, King is an example of what it means to stand up for what you believe is right. Our world would be a better place if there were more people like him today, willing to give life to their dreams and to carry out his.
Head to Head: New Year’s Resolutions Jan. 1 no different than other 364 days
Shelby Detring Executive Editor January 1 – a date celebrated by the world as a new beginning. A date regarded by most as superior to the rest of the year’s 364 days (364 and one quarter, if you must be technical). A date thought to be magical and to wipe the slate clean once the clock strikes midnight. And a date seriously misinterpreted and held to a much higher standard than appropriate and/or possible. There is nothing physically special about Jan. 1. Choosing this date as the day to begin a new year is no different than selecting March 3rd or August 24th. There is no planetary alignment, no historical event, or no apocalyptic prediction for the day of Jan. 1, so the idea of it being a “special” or “magical” day to begin a new year is pointless. Therefore, why must a New Year’s resolution be any different than a Summer Solstice resolution or an Election Day resolution? It’s not. A New Year’s resolution acts as a motivating starting point for those who wish to make a change. Motivation is often the key to truly achieving a goal, so a New Year’s resolution is beneficial to many. But when it comes down to it, if you need a
certain day to motivate you to begin your path to success, there probably won’t be much of a driving force to keep you on that path after the original motivating starting day, week, or month passes. Those who do achieve success following a New Year’s resolution, however, were obviously determined and self-motivated to keep up the good work. These people who do accomplish feats, such as losing 30 pounds, spending more time with family, or getting a promotion at work, harnessed a certain potential inside of them on that New Year’s Day and embraced it until the end. What they did not realize though is that the potential they found on Jan. 1 was within them during the previous year, and even the year before that. Because their potential was always there, they could have brought it out any other day of the year and gotten a head start to their goal. New Year’s resolutions just delay their success, because it causes someone to wait around to get started. Instead of waiting around for the arbitrary beginning of a new year to begin working toward a goal, one must realize that the same opportunity for success that becomes available on Jan. 1 is equally available on the other 364 days of the year. There is nothing special, magical, or different about New Year’s Day, so New Year’s resolutions hold no superiority to beginning a quest on any other day. If you truly wish to accomplish something, get started today. It’s never too late, or too early to begin, because each new day holds the same opportunity and potential as the day before, after, or a few months down the road.
Making every year count with resolutions In early 2011, I wouldn’t have agreed to go on record saying New Year’s resolutions are worth the making. I always thought they were nothing more than self-centered hypocrisy and empty goals. That was before I turned 50. After one half century of triumphs, mistakes, lessons and blessings, I’ve hit the home stretch. It’s time for something radical, something enterprising, something unexpected. So at the end of 2011, I made a couple of resolutions for the first time in my life. Make fun of me if you wish, but I think about them every day. If I don’t reach either one, I won’t collapse in failure because the journey of striving for each goal will certainly bring with it a lesson I’m supposed to learn. And if I reach both? Well, add that to my internal registry of reasons to love my second half century of life. I feel good about having specific goals for 2012, and I feel bad for ever berating anyone who has made a New Year’s resolution. Why not make the year count? And why not (Mr. Williams, the use of “impact” as a verb is for you) impact your world in a specific, intentional way? Most of you won’t have to worry about turning 50 for quite a while, but I urge you to consider the top three benefits of resolutions while you’re young: 3. Jan. 1 may be just another day, but symbolically and philosophically, it’s much more. It’s a new chance, a blank slate, a fresh start. Symbolically and philosophically, I’ll take any of those. 2. When people take them seriously, resolutions are adventurous, spirited moves. Certainly, the world
Shanda Crosby Teacher could use a lot more positive energy, more gutsy goals and more can-do attitudes. Bring it on. 1. Reflection is a healthy regular exercise. Making a resolution forces us to reflect on ourselves, our lives, and our choices. Are we making a difference? Are we who we want and need to be? After a half century of life, I’ve realized that hating new year’s resolutions was much more self centered and hypocritical than embracing them. For the first time in my life, I have two audacious resolutions for this year. And when I celebrate reaching my goals, 2012 will go down as a year I won’t forget. After all, with 51 coming soon, I have to make every year count.
Tim Tebow: The miracle of the Mile High City
Exhausted from the emotional and physical toll of a NFL game, one player kneels, puts his elbow on his right knee, his right hand balled in a fist to his head, and says a prayer to the one person he gives credit to for everything he has ever done in life. Many of us do the same thing either in public or the comfort of our home. This action, which has affectionately come to be known as "Tebowing," is much more than what it seems to the naked eye. For Tim Tebow, it is a gesture of praise and thanks to God for all He has
helped him with in his life. Tim Tebow is not only an amazing, exciting, and uplifting player, but a terrific Christian role model as well. Tebow takes the snap, one step drop, sees Thomas on a slant over the middle, and, with a stiff arm on Ike Taylor after the catch, Thomas runs to history. Most of us have seen the over-played highlight of Tim's Wildcard weekend/overtime/ game winning touchdown to Demaryius Thomas. The throw that knocked out the previous Super Bowl runner-up Steelers by a margin of 29-23, right? It
gets old seeing it over, and over, and over, no? Not so fast, my friend; not all of us are tired of it, I’m sure. In fact, I wouldn’t be surprised if Tim Tebow wakes up to this video every morning for the rest of his life. This touchdown was an "appreciate that" to writers like Tim Dahlberg of the Associated Press who said Tebow "may be the worst NFL quarterback ever." Dahlberg is one of many of us who have doubted Tebow’s abilities as a NFL quarterback, but instead of letting writers and critics who have never played a single game in the
league get him down, he uses it as motivation. After the biggest win of his career against the Steelers, he said, “I love playing football because I have the opportunity to affect people." Affecting people is exactly what he does. During his college career at University of Florida, he wore a bible verse below his eyes in the 2008 national championship that read John 3:16. It is a very popular verse, and the day after it was the most popular search on Google. That is the type of affect Tim Tebow refers to. In an ESPN interview with
Illustration by Shelby Detring
Luke Sharrock Journalism I Urban Meyer, the Gators’ former head coach said Tebow is more concerned about bringing one person out there to Christ from seeing the verse worn by him than winning the title. What is ironic is that Tebow threw for 316 yards, averaged 31.6 yards per pass, and CBS ratings for the game peaked at 31.6 when the Broncos bounced the Steelers from the playoffs. Yes, the Broncos did get hammered by the Patriots in the divisional playoff the following weekend with a score of 45-10, but Tim Tebow managed to revive the Mile High city. Also, after taking over for Kyle Orton, who led the Broncos out of the gate with a 1-4 record, Tebow had an impressive 7-4 record, at one point winning six straight games and tying for first in the AFC West. He also managed to lead Denver to its first playoff game since 2005 despite being determined 120-1 underdogs by Vegas odds makers. The Tebow story is as inspiring as any story out there. He is a true testament that your dreams can be accomplished through determination, hard work, and faith in Christ.
Transformers: The Greatest Sci-Fi Creation Rants
Shortly before Christmas, my esteemed colleague, Chad Rader, made an attempt to sway you to the Dark Side with his belief that Star Wars was the greatest science fiction franchise of all time. Similarly, another fellow instructor/geek, Katherine Lowther, tried to Assimilate you into her belief that Star Trek indeed reigns supreme. Upon reading their well-written but ultimately horribly flawed opinions, I felt it necessary that I shed the light on what is truly the greatest celluloid Sci-Fi creation: the Transformers trilogy. Reason #1. Superior Aliens. C’mon, who wants to see a bunch of lame, pasty, monochromatic, half-robot, half-human hybrids running around claiming resistance is futile while their disembodied leader needs a crane to move around (Star Trek)? Worse still, your choice of a guy whose technological claim to fame is a remote control pasted to his chest or a giant slug (Star Wars)? Give me flashy, colorful, 75-foot-tall killer robots who change into prototype sports cars, semi trucks, and cutting edge military technology, all the while brandishing giant laser cannons that can split an aircraft carrier in two. It’s a good thing the U.S. Army has armor piercing shells, or we’d all be slaves to the Decepticons by now. Reason #2. Superior Script Writing. Which is better
for comic relief – Fictional Tribbles and Ewoks, or the all-too-real acting chops of Shia LeBouf and whatever Victoria’s Secret model they’re pairing him with this week? I mean let’s face it, who really believes that furry critters are a threat in outer space? Now, put some giant robots on earth where they instantly succumb to Megan Fox’s allure and
chunks of both American and World history are actually the result of tampering by giant alien robots that have gone unnoticed on Earth for hundreds or perhaps even thousands of years (depending on which episode you’re watching at the moment). I think we all suspected that there were sinister motivations behind such world changing
Doug Wilkinson Teacher 12-year-old bathroom humor, and now we’re talking the kind of global crisis that could easily be right around the corner. Reason #3. Realism. Nothing makes a true interstellar crisis more relevant than revealing that large
events as the building of the Hoover Dam, the Pyramids, and the first manned mission to the moon. I think the point is truly driven home by the appearance of the real Buzz Aldrin as he explains the real reason he walked on the moon
in 1969, which was to find a giant robot voiced by Leonard Nimoy (take that, Lowther). Also, it’s a good thing that many of these interstellar visitors have English names like Bumblebee and Jazz. I wonder what insects look like on Cybertron? Do they make Cyber-honey? Reason #4. Two words. Michael Bay. Reason #5. It’s more American. While Lowther wants to talk about the Socialist society on Star Trek, and Rader wants to worship the Pagan Jedi, the Transformers are every bit as American as hot dogs, apple pie, and baseball. All of the Autobots are GM products, the Decepticons are the finest the US Army and Air Force have to offer, and it’s obvious that they are all diehard supporters of the 2nd Amendment. Additionally, what’s more American (re: Capitalistic) than basing an entire movie franchise on a toy line? You’ve got automatic merchandising tie-ins, the fast food deal, t-shirts, back-toschool products, etc. While I could go on, there is little doubt that Transformers is easily the best Sci-Fi movie franchise around. I’ll take a multi-million dollar film making project that is based on a 25-year-old toy line over the life’s work of old, washed up filmmakers any day of the week.
• New bell system • Unstable weather • Clocks stuck at 12:01 • “The school skunk”
Raves
• Headstart on scheduling for next school year • KYCID prizes for students • Domino’s pizza Wednesdays in the cafeteria • Success of Steel Magnolias
The Adventures of Tintin : not the average kid’s movie Taylor Welch A&E Editor Most of the time, it seems like animated films are all princesses and fairy dust, but with the release of The Adventures of Tintin, things have changed. Tintin goes against all standards of children movies by being all about action and adventure. The film was an adaptation of the Belgian artist Herge’s comic book that came out in the 1920s in a French newspaper. The comic and the film followed Tintin (Jamie Bell), a young reporter, and his dog Snowy as they venture to find the best stories. In the film, after happening across a three mast model ship called The Unicorn, Tintin finds himself in trouble. Apparently, the Unicorn is part of a set of three ships that are being hunted down by Ivan Ivanovitch Sakharine (Daniel Craig), who is willing
to go to extreme lengths to get all three in his possession. Tintin and Sakaharine then find themselves in a deadly race to see who can get all three boats first. While the story line of this movie was interesting on many counts, it did drag a little throughout. There were many times when scenes didn’t seem necessary and were too long. However, the film did have its moments of excitement. There were scenes that dove into the past with colorful action that would captivate every viewer. For an animated children’s movie this film definitely brought more complexity
and action than expected, but it wasn’t all good. While the scenes of fighting and gun shots are more commonly accepted in children’s films, the concept of an alcoholic ship captain was a bit mature. The film also brought up themes such as revenge and holding grudges. While these themes are in no way new, the movie did not deal with the negativity they cause and instead let them play out in the story. While both definitely added to story line and made the film more interesting, they could lead children, the intended audience, to develop negative habits. Despite the mature themes that were displayed and the occasional boring scene, the film was good. It provides viewers with exactly what they were expecting when walking in the theater. This movie is one that everyone should definitely see.
A&E Editor’s Movie picks for Feburary
The Woman in Black Feb. 3rd
Artist you should hear... Ben Sollee
Ragan Clark Executive Editor
The stage lights come on to spotlight a young man with dark hair and glasses. Nothing in particular draws him as unique until he slides his bow across the strings of his cello. The deep, earthy tone of his cello serves to set the mood for this down-to-earth, yet quirky sounding artist. A native to Kentucky, Ben Sollee’s Bluegrass roots are expressed through his involvement in local movements. Ben Sollee is an anti-mountaintop removal
activist and has gone so far as to feel pure and soulful in their simplicity. collaborate with other Kentucky artists However, Ben Sollee is not limited to on an album in 2008. This album, “Dear the basic. Horns pervade the smoky jazz Companion,” raised awareness tune, “Bible Belt” through music that showed the as his sweet and Songs you should hear… beauty of the sultry voice tells a “Bible Belt” Appalachian unique love story. “I Need” culture and gave Regardless “The Globe” all proceeds to of whether the Appalachian track is quirky Voices, an and upbeat organization that or smooth and For fans of… works to fight passion infused, Ben Harper mountaintop the album Van Morrison removal. exudes an heir of Jack Johnson Ben Sollee’s simplicity. Instead latest album, of providing a big “Inclusions,” released show complete with guns and whistles, May 2011, has a definite Ben Sollee transports the listener into a stripped down minimalist sound on more intimate setting reminiscent of a many of the tracks. Songs like “Hurting” jam session among friends.
The Vow Feb. 10th
Star Wars: Episode I Feb. 10th
CAST:
Melissa Rowland
Steel Magnolias GRC PRESENTS
Melissa Rowland-M’Lynn Ryan Terry-Shelby Aja Croteau-Clairee Lindsey Hutchison-Truvy Ashley Taulbee-Ouiser Sam Crop-Annelle Photos by Colbi Howard Page design by Julie Willian
Samantha Crop and Aja Croteau
From left, Melissa Rowland, Aja Croteau, Lindsey Hutchison, Ryan Terry, Samantha Crop, and Ashley Taulbee
Ashley Taulbee
Samantha Crop
Samantha Crop and Ashley Taulbee
Above left, Lindsey Hutchison, top, and Ryan Terry; above right, Melissa Rowland
GRC’s production of Steel Magnolias featured a cast of six, yet captured the hearts of many. The cast overcame a variety of issues, such as postponement due to overbooking, but that did not stop the show from going on. Debuting on Jan. 19, the
cast put on three shows as well as a school production that many classes attended. The show was a hit among students, parents, and staff alike. The all senior cast put on a solid show that is sure to be remembered by the GRC drama department for years to come.
Cardinals caught on camera Hooten l, Jameisha e ra Is ra b a S trode, Sha’ Kayla S
Photos and Page Design by Julie Willian and Colbi Howard Lawrence William s
Jessica H atton, Sea n Crain, J than Hub onabard, Blak e Roberts
Amie Wil liamson,
William M ason
us . Justin Carr ry ru D ri e P Below:
rry raft, Eric Te Wesley Ashc Below: Eli Leslie
Justin
Meado
ws
Dustin Shoemaker, Anthony Lay
, Tevon Blanton Below: Khmarkis Blanton
h Rachel Smit
Mac
ken z
William Pope, A vicia Rodgers
Daniel Baumgardner
ie P ortw ood
off Josh Bechtl
What is your Ideal Valentine’s Day Date? Girls
Katy Taulbee, 9:
Boys Cody Hisle, 9: Something private.
Going to dinner at Don Senor, then going to the movies to see The Vow.
I would love to go out for a great dinner and do something that she wouldn’t forget. I would really enjoy learning new things about her.
Emily Fielder, 10: Going
Connor McCarty, 10:
out to eat at Cheddar’s, seeing Beauty and the Beast in 3-D, and getting each other unique gifts.
A romantic dinner at Hangar’s in Richmond, and spending quality time looking up at the stars after-
Joanna Guerrant, 11: A hot
Cedric Hampton, 11: Going to
Brittany Cuffe, 12: Being
Ian Pangburn, 12: It all starts
date with Ryan Reynolds. He’ll take me to a 5-star restaurant in Paris, and then go out for a night on the town. Then, he’ll take me to the top of the Eiffel Tower and we’ll look at the stars.
flown to Italy and having a romantic candle-lit dinner on a gondola with someone singing. PAGE COMPILED BY EMILY JACKSON & HALEY TYE Illustrations by Christian Puckett
dinner at Cheddar’s, then going to Orange Leaf afterwards. Then, we would go play laser tag at Champs.
with a trip to Wal-Mart to purchase a box of pink and white frosted sugar cookies and a single red rose. I then take a long drive to the end of Jury Lane where I spend the evening with a fantastic woman... my grandma.
Clark paves way for future Distinguished Young Women on scholastics, interview, talent, of the program is that all know friends on a deeper level. Haley Tye Features Editor
One hundred push-ups and sit-ups, an exhausting fitness routine, countless hours practicing the same song, one expensive beaded gown, 10 grueling minutes in an intensive interview, getting to spend seven days with some of Kentucky’s most distinguished young women—priceless. George Rogers Clark senior Ragan Clark experienced all this and more as she competed at Kentucky’s Distinguished Young Women program at the Singletary Center in Lexington, Jan. 13 and 14. After receiving the title as Clark County’s Distinguished Young Woman in August, Clark began to prepare for the state level. In all levels of the DYW program, participants are scored
self-expression, and fitness. In the area of talent, Clark chose to sing an old folk song, “Wayfaring Stranger.” “I chose this song because it was my great-grandmother’s favorite song, so it really means a lot to me,” said Clark. During the self-expression category, participants were asked to describe their passion. “I talked about how I was passionate about helping others overcome obstacles in their lives,” said Clark. “I spoke about how I felt a degree in neuropsychology would allow me to help people like stroke victims overcome by getting closer to recovery.” Clark referenced Gabrielle Giffords as an example of a neuropsychology patient in her passion statement. One of the unique features
participants stay with a host family during the week of competition. Clark was hosted by the Coldiron family in Lexington. The representatives from Pulaski and Franklin counties also stayed with this host family. “They were incredible to stay with and I really enjoyed the time I spent at my host family’s house,” said Clark. “I grew really close to them throughout the week, and though I missed my parents, brothers, and puppy, I felt right at home.” Although each participant’s goal was to return home as the 2012 Kentucky Distinguished Young Woman, Clark found meeting the other representatives a prize within itself. Twelve-hour practices each day allows you plenty of time to grow close and get to
What is your perfect snow day? Matt Reed, 12 If it was icy, my friends and I would play capture the flag. Then, we would walk to college park and go sledding.
Ashley Benson, 10 Going sledding outside with my friends and family.
“We got a lot done during the week, but we always made time to really enjoy each other’s company,” said Clark. At the end of Saturday night’s program, Paige Wilson of Marion County was named Kentucky’s Distinguished Young Woman for 2012. In June, Wilson will travel to Mobile, Alabama to compete for the title of America’s Distinguished Young Woman. Donna Fuller, Clark County Distinguished Young Women Program Chair, said that Clark should be proud of all that she has accomplished. “Even though Marion County won, Ragan rocked and we were very proud,” said Fuller. All in all, this was a oncein-a-lifetime experience that Clark will never forget. “The DYW program Drew Coleman, 11 Sleeping late, drinking hot chocolate, and watching movies all day.
TJ Berry, 10 To go sledding and hang out with friends.
Victoria Hart, 9 Going outside in the snow and making snow angels with friends.
Illustration by Christian Puckett
Miguel Zapata, 11 Having snowball fights with friends and building snowmen.
challenged me to take a chance,” said Clark. “I was able to push my limits by getting my pushups a little lower, my vocals a little stronger, my dancing a little sharper, and my speaking a little prouder.”
Shallyn Banegas, 12 Sitting at home watching Golden Girls because Betty White rocks.
Racheal McDonald, 9 Going to the country club and sledding with my friends.
Shonetta Davis, 12 Sleep my life away. Mr. Williams A Friday before a break. It’d be really snowy and awful until about 10 o’clock, then it would clear up and be sunny for the rest of the day.
Clark performing her talent at Kentucky’s DYW program. (Ann Christine Photography)
Sam Crankshaw, 11 Going skiing in the Alps with my friends.
Branden Barber, 9 Giving hot chocolate to the homeless.
Compiled by Emily Jackson and Haley Tye
Mrs. Midden I would go skiing at Perfect North and drink hot chocolate.
Taylor Stephens, 10 Go outside in the snow and hang out with friends.
Resolutions work for two ambitious teachers “Just Because You Can, Doesn’t Mean You Should”
“The First Step You Take Is the Longest Stride”
Junior Algebra Teacher, Mr. Meurer
Freshman Civics Teacher, Ms. Hall As 2010 turned in to 2011, Kristin Hall resolved that she would be more fiscally and physically healthy. By exercising and maintaining a balanced budget, Hall was able to reach this goal and keep her New Year’s Resolution.
Q: What motivated you to maintain a healthy diet? A: Actually seeing yourself lose part of the weight you want to lose, motivates you to lose more. Q: What main exercises did you focus on? A: Mainly just walking, along with crunches and sit ups. It’s difficult to find time during the workday to do something like go to a gym. Q: What was your favorite healthy snack? A: I am a big fan of fruit, especially oranges and grapes. Q: What would you express to the students on the importance of keeping good health? A: The older you get, the harder it is to take that weight off. Keep your bodies healthy and strong as long as you can. Q: What did you consider unnecessary expenses? A: Stuff like going out with your friends or going out
Compiled by Emily Daniel
Determined to defy cultural demands to choose convenience over quality, Will Meurer resolved to use foods grown in his own garden to enhance the quality of the food he and his family consumed. Through hard work and time management, Meurer was able to provide his family with food that trumps convienient fast food any day.
to eat. I tried to find better alternatives to seeing my friends and going out to eat at restaurants.
Q: What foods did you grow in your garden? A: Stable vegetables such as green beans, corn, onions and potatoes. We also provided our own meat by raising beef cows and chickens.
Ms. Hall Q: What financial advice would you give to the students on saving? A: Don’t get into debt. Pay your bills and avoid debt as much as possible and learn how to keep a budget. Because once you get into debt, it’s difficult to get out of it.
Q: What key components were used to help achieve this goal? A: Time is the biggest thing: being devoted to grow the vegetables and prioritizing your time. We saved seeds from crops that grew well for the next year. We use the method called Biointensive Gardening, growing a larger amount of food in small spaces.
Q: What are the pros about saving money? A: You’ll be able to have that comfort in knowing you have money in case of any emergencies.
Q: What motivated you to start this resolution? A: To provide for my family and to show that just because there are fast-food options everywhere, doesn’t mean you have to give in to that lifestyle. I wanted to take part and offer an alternative to fast-food with the hopes of getting back to the way things used to be, and probably should have been all along.
Illustration by Christian Puckett
Q: What advice would you express to students about the importance of eating habits?
A: Our culture is “convenience over everything,” and it is tough to break out of that paradigm. Students will go out to eat somewhere without giving any Mr. Meurer thought about what they are really eating and what that food does to them. If you want to make a change, you have to be willing to be different. If your boyfriend/girlfriend wants to go out to eat, come up with a healthier alternative like making a meal at home. Q: What helped you remain dedicated to keeping this resolution? A: Knowing the importance of food and the recognition of how it is the “blood of your blood and bone of your bone” and learning that what you eat becomes a part of you. Seeing food as life-giving and how it provides for you physically, mentally and spiritually. Q: Do you plan on continuing your resolution from last year in 2012? A: Yes, I plan on taking it further and growing enough food in the garden to last my family all year, not just part of the year.
25 Ways for Girls to Cope with Being Single on Valentine’s Day Play Nancy Drew computer games to get your mind off of things
Avoid all shades of red, pink, and purple
Avoid Taylor Swift songs
Listen to Adele and Avril Lavigne
Take on a new culture where Valentine’s Day doesn’t exist for a day
Write poetry Eat chocolate... that you bought for yourself
Plan to be (love) sick that day
Go to a movie alone, buy two tickets, and tell yourself, and everyone else, that your date is in the bathroom
Play Sims and create your perfect life
Avoid the holiday altogether
Send yourself flowers and candy
By: Emily Jackson Julie Willian Haley Tye
Sleep all day so you can dream about your perfect boyfriend
Hope that everyone forgets to celebrate the season of love Caricatures by Christian Puckett
Practice pick-up lines for next year
Download the Text Plus app, sign up, text yourself sweet messages, and save the number in your phone as “My Boyfriend”
Listen to Justin Bieber’s “One Less Lonely Girl” and believe that you will be her
Eat Lean Cuisine
Make up an imaginary boyfriend
Keep telling yourself that there’s someone out there for you
Cook a romantic dinner for two --- for you and your giant teddy bear named Channing Tatum
Go to Wal-Mart and spit in all the boxes of candy hearts
Download the Social Girl app Wear baggy sweatpants and a sports hoodie from another county, and tell everyone they’re your Move to a country boyfriend’s clothes where arranged marriages exist
Look-a-Likes
S u d o k u
Tyler Muncy Sophomore
Mitchell Davis YouTuber
Madison Wendy’s Sharp Girl Freshman
Animal of the Month: Groundhog
1. What goes up and down the stairs without moving? 2. I have holes in my top and bottom, my left and right, and in the middle. But I still hold water. What am I? 3. Give me food, and I will live; give me water, and I will die. What am I? 4. The man who invented it doesn’t want it. The man who bought it doesn’t need it. The man who needs it doesn’t know it. What is it? 5. I run over fields and woods all day. Under the bed at night I sit not alone. My tongue hangs out, up and to the rear, awaiting to be filled in the morning. What am I?
Illustration by Christian Puckett
The groundhog appears from his heated burrow at 7:25 a.m. on Groundhog Day. The friendly critter looks around for his shadow so he can promptly report in “groundhogese,” the outcome of his finding. Spring, or Winter?
6. In a marble hall white as milk Lined with skin as soft as silk Within a fountain crystal-clear A golden apple doth appear. No doors there are to this stronghold, Yet thieves break in to steal its gold. Answer Key: 1. A Rug 2. A Sponge 3. A Fire 4. A Coffin 5. A Shoe 6. An Egg
Every Feb. 2, people gather at Gobbler’s Knob, a wooded knoll just outside of Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania. On the long-awaited day, the public find out if Spring will come soon, or if Winter will continue on. It’s all according to the largest member of the squirrel family, the Groundhog!
Riddles
Cardinal Basketball
Cards out hustle, out work all opponents
Brent Stephens IHigh Editor
21-3. No one saw it coming here or across the state, except the 18 players on the Clark County boy’s basketball team. This is undoubtedly one of the hardest working teams that Clark County has seen step on a court for quite a while. Whether it’s fighting for a rebound, scrapping for a loose ball,
Analysis
battling down low for position on the blocks, or playing in-yourface defense for 32 minutes, this group of Cardinals just refuses to get out-worked. There isn’t a team in Region 10, and a good portion of Kentucky, who can match 5-5 with the starting lineup of Adam Fatkin, Bopper Stenzel, Taylor Howard, Charlie Rogers and Dominic Vancleve. Fatkin isn’t just a dominant offensive weapon down low but can step out and shoot a high percentage from the elbows, and that’s just offensively. Adam is athletic enough to defend anyone from a center to a small forward, and has also turned himself into a powerful shot blocker. Two-year starter Stenzel has exploded into an incredible scorer, especially in transition. Bopper can pull up for a money jumper, or drive around or over pretty much anyone he wants to to lay it in. Stenzel has freakishly outstanding ball-handling abilities, and doesn’t turn the ball over while spreading the ball to other Cards on the court. Howard joined the team this season and was expected by many fans to be a knockdown three-point specialist, which is true, but Taylor, with more experience each game, is becoming an all-around player. Senior Taylor Howard, left, goes up for a basket against Montgomery County. (Smoke Signals photos)
Howard is still a work in progress on defense, but has become a better rebounder and is beginning to score in other ways besides from behind the arc. Rogers has an incredible frame for a high school senior, with length and strength to pretty much defend any player on the floor. Charlie’s shutdown defense has frustrated and dominated almost every player he has defended this year, namely Montgomery County junior Omar Prewitt. Rogers has struggled with foul trouble early on, but will only get better with foul management as the season goes on. Vancleve may be the best athlete on the team. Dominic, also a wide receiver and cornerback on the football field, is best known for his inyour-face defense and forced
Senior Adam Fatkin goes up for a shot inside. Fatkin leads the team in blocks and rebounds.
Senior Bopper Stenzel drives to the basket during the Montgomery County game. Stenzel leads the team in scoring.
turnovers and bad shots from his offensive foes. Vancleve recently is shooting outstanding from the field and has become a threat for opposing defenses as a player who can drive quickly to the basket or pull up for a three. This team may not have the exciting breakaway dunks like last season’s high-flying Cards, but this team is just as tough, and plays good defense. The Cards won’t win games by 60 points like in years past, but this team will also never be a out of a game because its tendency to play well in the fourth quarter. The Cards can play a slower pace and be physical with teams like Rowan County, or they can speed up and hurt teams in transition like they did with Covington Scott when Stenzel dropped 39 points, or against
Dixie Heights when the Cards had an 18 point comeback. Also helping this year’s team is the disappointing season of Mason County, who has been Region 10 champion four out of the last six seasons. The Royals have always been Clark’s toughest postseason opponent, and Mason has also played four out of those six seasons on their home court at the Fieldhouse. With the exception of Montgomery County (on a hot shooting night), there hasn’t been a team to present itself in Region 10 as being capable to take down the Cards on a neutral court. And with Mason down, and having beat Montgomery soundly at home, this team is on the right start to go back to Rupp Arena.
Lady Cardinals Basketball
Cards need to use size to get back to Diddle Arena Austin Curtis Sports Writer When it comes to basketball in Clark County, most people think of the success of our boys’ team, and while that is true, the Clark County girls are having a very good season as well. While their record only shows them at 13-8 (at press time Monday), the Lady Cards have enough fire-power to take home the Region Title, even though they suffered a couple of tough losses against district foe Montgomery County and a couple of the top teams in the state. The Lady Cards saw disappointment last season that they hope to avoid this year. Last year the heavily favored
Analysis Lady Cards lost in the Region championship to Montgomery County after beating them twice in the regular season and in the District championship. This year could be the exact opposite of last year. Even though the Cards have been beat both times playing Montgomery, they can beat them in the Region as long as the guards step up and knock down open shots and if freshman phenom Sandra Skinner can control the paint. The schedule has not been kind to the Lady Cards, playing a couple of top 25 teams, Senior Kelsie Parido goes up for a losing to the then 19th ranked jumper against Montgomery County. Madison Central Lady Indians, (Smoke Signals photo) and losing to the then 15th ranked Lexington Catholic Lady lost to the Moore Catholic Lady Mavericks, who are ranked Knights. 15th in the state of New York. They also
Paige Hammonds, junior, dribbles toward the basket past her opponent, Caitlin Conyers, of Montgomery County. (Smoke Signals photo)
Although, they have picked up a couple of quality wins beating Collins (15-5) and beating the South Miami Lady Cobras who were ranked 72nd in the state of Florida at the time. If the Lady Cards want to be successful and make it to state to play in Diddle Arena, then they have to play an inside-outside type of game. Not many people in the Region have the size that the Lady Cards have, so if we look into the post and can get one of our forwards like Sandra, or Tayloir Rose, one on one with their matchup, then they can take them to the basket getting an easy two points or a foul. If teams catch on and start double teaming the post players, then that opens up wide open shots for some of our three-point
Sophomore Maddie Hammlin goes in for a shot through her opponents from Montgomery County. (Smoke Signals photo)
specialists like senior guard Kelsie Parido, junior guard Paige Hammonds, and sophomore guard Lexxus Graham. If they can knock down those open shots, then they can compete with any team in the state.
Senior Tayloir Rose goes up for two. (Smoke Signals photo)
Freshman Standouts: They may be young, but never underestimated
Written and compiled by Lauren Woosley
Sandra Skinner
Richard Roche
Lady Cards Basketball
“At center, she’s a freshman, number 23, Sandra Skinner!” This resounds the gym when the starting line up is announced before the GRC Lady Cards Basketball Team takes the floor. “I’m honored,” she said. “Not every freshman has this chance.” Skinner is averaging 11 points per game, 5 rebounds per game, and 1 blocked shot per game. “Her length and athletic ability is something we’ve never had before,” said senior Lady Card Kelsie Parido. “My team doesn’t let me ‘slide’ just because of my age,” Skinner said. “They make it harder on me honestly because we want to be as good as we can be.” She said her teammates treat her as if she is just another varsity player, and they have taught her that age, or grade, really doesn’t matter. The team holds her accountable and they speak up when
Cardinal Swimming
Smoke Signals photo
they know she can do better, making her such a phenomenal ball player. “Sandra is a very classy young lady,” coach Scott True, “who could be one of the best Clark County has seen in a long, long time.” Parido agrees, adding that Skinner will be a huge help to the team in March, and will be “unstoppable by the time she’s a senior.”
Malachi Israel Cardinal Basketball
Israel may be just a freshman, but according to Clark County head coach, Scott Humphrey, he’s “mature beyond his years.” Israel said that being part of such a successful varsity team makes him more dedicated and focused, admitting that there is “no room for error as a freshman.” “He always plays with poise,” Humphrey said. “He may have the Smoke Signals photo
to swim,” Roche said, “and I am glad that I have the opportunity to swim for this team.” Roche has a chance to qualify for the state meet as a freshman in his best event, the 100 back. His career in swimming won’t end after the high school season comes to a close, as he will continue to swim and challenge himself in competitive meets against swimmers from all over the country.
Swimming, on average, six days a week with a very promising future, freshman Richard Roche brings a whole new dimension to the GRC Swim Team. “Richard truly is an amazing, talented, and wonderful student athlete,” said GRC swim coach, Alicia Henderson. As a mere freshman, he has already scored in the top three in every event he has competed in this year, and is a vital part of the relay teams. Aside from swimming for GRC, Roche is a member of a year round US Swimming Club team, COLA. He jumps from practice to practice, loses sleep to practice before school, and yet he still continues to be successful. His work ethic and strong desire to succeed is, without a doubt, to blame for this profound success. “I love Photo by James Mann, The Winchester Sun
highest basketball IQ on the team.” Senior Adam Fatkin admits that Israel doesn’t have a major scoring role on the team but he knows that and deals very well with a lot of pressure during the game. Israel fits in well with the team, working hard during practices, but he also continues to work on his own time on the weekends. “For the most part, they treat me as just another player,” he said, referring to his teammates, “but I occasionally get a few freshman jokes.” Israel has a prime future ahead of
him. “In my opinion, he is learning from the best point guard in the state in Bopper,” Humphrey said. “This will only help him in the future and I expect him to follow in those footsteps in the years to come.” Many people outside of the sports world, and maybe even in the sports world, tend to see freshman as a weakness in most cases. But for Israel, and GRC, that is obviously not the case. “He knows what he has to do when he’s in the game,” said Fatkin, “and he does it to perfection.”
Patriots vs. Giants part two: Students and faculty weigh in Bryce Stephens Sports Writer
pe r Pic Bow ks l
On the other side, the G-men (9-7) will look for a repeat of the 2007 season that ended on Feb. 3, 2008 with a Super Bowl win over New England. After winning by a field goal against San Francisco, it seems the best option for the Patriot’s defense is to blitz Eli Manning and put the QB under pressure. This is a very interesting match-up and it’s sure to be a good game.
Illustration Christian Puckett
Su
This year in the Super Bowl, the New England Patriots will square off against the New York Giants in Indianapolis. The Pats (13-3) return to the Super Bowl following a sub-par performance by Tom Brady that included two interceptions for the Baltimore Ravens, a team that strived on turnovers the whole year. Only a week prior to that game did Brady and his offense score 45, dominating the Denver Broncos.
Andrea Stevenson, 11- “The Giants because of Manning’s passing ability.” Jason Williams, faculty- “The Giants are playing the best on both sides of the ball.” Ryan Frye, 11- “New York isn’t a one-dimensional team.” Abagail Mack, faculty- “The Patriots dominate regularly.” Lucie Davis, 12- “Tom Brady is very attractive so I want his team to win.” Reid Campbell, 12- “New York has Eli Manning who’s a great leader.” Bobby Powell, 11- “The Giants have the most explosive offense.” Brooks Harrison, 9- “Eli Manning is clutch.”
Baseball cards expecting change: new coach, new field, new schedule Brooke Powell Sports Editor He started in 1992 at GRC, and then continued his journey at Mississippi State in 1997. Next came the U.S. Olympic Team in 1998, followed by a first round draft pick to the White Sox in 1999. 2000 brought his Big League Debut, and then it was off to the New York Mets in 2004. In 2005, it was on to the Detroit Tigers, with the Cleveland Indians following in 2008. Spring of 2010 brought his retirement. For Matt Ginter, baseball is nothing new. Ginter is continuing his passion for baseball through coaching youth of all ages. He owns MPH Baseball Academy (Mechanics of
Pitching and Hitting) where he trains young athletes in pitching, hitting, and fielding. Last year, he helped with the coach/pitch Yankees team that won the city championship, as well as the 6, 7, 8, 9, and 12-year-old Legends traveling team. This spring, Ginter will take the field with the GRC Cardinals as head coach. “The opportunity came along and we thought we could help some of the older guys,” said Ginter, referring to his coaching staff. His staff will include Kenny Davis, Eric Walton, and Tad Cain for varsity. Chad Blackwell and Tim Gipson will assist Ginter for JV. Ginter and his staff will follow long-time coach Larry Allison, who led the Cardinals to an appearance
at the state tournament last year. “We lost some kids, but we have a lot of young kids returning who got a taste of state last year, and should be hungry to go back,” said Ginter. Ginter is hoping to build on that as the team begins its season in March. “It will be a different style of ball,” said Ginter, “There will be some changes.” One major change for the Cardinals this season will be the addition of Lexington teams to the schedule. GRC will take on Bryan Station, Lexington Catholic, Dunbar, Lexington Christian, and Lafayette. Another major change is the renovation of the field. The Cardinals only played four games at home last year
due to drainage problems. The drainage issues were a result of the uneven infield. Ginter has chosen to have this problem fixed instead of taking a Spring Break trip as a team. “The infield will be leveled and given the shape it should have so that we can play more home games, even it if rains a little bit,” said
Ginter. Despite the changes the Cardinals will face, Ginter’s talents mixed with the passion of the players will make for a promising season. Ginter is ready to lead the team to success and “hopefully get the players prepared to play college ball.”
Making A’s and Making Plays Sports- Cross Country,
Indoor and Outdoor Track GPA-3.7 Grade- Senior
Tiffany Toler
“I work on as much work as I can at school and then use my time between school and practice. If I need more time, I finish after practice.”
Indoor Track starts the year off with a lead New talent brings success for bowling team Compiled by Addison Lowry and Bryce Stephens
The indoor track season began Jan. 16 with a great start for GRC’s indoor track team. Senior Clay Dixon’s performance helped the Cards excel and be among the top schools. The senior finished 2nd in the 800 meter run, 5th in the 3200 meter (two mile) run and 3rd in the 30 meter dash, making the Cardinals’ presence felt. Dixon again led the team on Jan. 28, finishing 1st in the 800 meter dash, along with the boys placing 2nd in both 4X800 and the 4X400. Senior Alyssa Miley, previously transferred from Ohio, is also leading the Cardinals for the girls’ group, setting an example for younger runners. What’s the biggest challenge this season? Clay Dixon: “When you do a five-mile run, there are six laps to every mile, so there’s a lot of counting involved.” Alyssa Miley: “For the girls, it’s just a question of participation and getting a good number of people to the meets.”
ior
n, sen
ixo Clay D
(Photos by Addison Lowry)
Compiled by Brooke Powell, Sports Editor
With new talent occupying most of the teams, the boy and girl bowlers have had great success this season. Five of the nine boys and five of the eight girls had never bowled competitively before this season. “In the eight weeks we have been competing, they have all improved dramatically,” said head coach Marnie Berryman. “Josh White, the boys’ coach, and I are very excited to see how far these young bowlers are going to progress in the next few weeks.” Cheyenne Rison has had the highest game for the girls six times, and Luccia Aversano has had the highest game twice. Nick Oliver had the highest game six times for the boys, while Dustin Berry had the highest game twice.
Alyssa Mil
ey, senior
How does GRC compare to previous years? Dixon: “We’ve returned all of the guys, and even added a few so we can do nothing but improve.” Miley: “From my short time here, I’ve recognized we’ve got a strong overall team, and I feel we’ve been able to compete with everything that’s been given to us.”
Front row: Adrianne Neal, Hannah Robinson, and Shelby Watkins. Second Row: Daesha Moore, Liccia Aversano, Clayton Riemenschneider, Alex Gosnell, Elisha Witt, Isabella Jones, Madison Witt, and Cheyenne Rison. Back Row: Coach Marnie Berryman, Coach Josh White, James Ward, Cody Watts, Steven Pasley, Dustin Berry, and Nick Oliver. (Photo submitted)
Cards continue to make a splash as the season treads on Addison Lowry Staff Photographer
Coach Alicia Henderson stands and demonstrates how to do a correct backstroke kick. (Photo by Julie Willian)
The GRC swim team has gone to defeat four of the seven teams they have competed against in the last two weeks. “The swimmers have all really improved over the course of the season,” said coach Alicia Henderson. “More importantly, they have improved in terms of technique and outlook for the future.” Henderson has high
expectations for the team this season. “My goal is for everyone to have a personal best time,” said Henderson. She said she also hopes to get a majority of the swimmers to place high enough to compete in regionals. “Richard Roche (freshman), and Jansen Browning (junior) have a good chance of placing at Regionals,” said Henderson. As for the off-season, Henderson has plans to continue dry-land practices to keep the swimmers
in good condition. Also, stroke technique clinics will hopefully be offered at the College Park pool to any swimmer who is interested. “The pool may be starting a USS swim team here in Winchester, which is key to the success of the high school program,” said Coach Henderson. Overall, the swim team’s season is looking in an upward direction as the swimmers hope to compete in state.
Junior Drew Coleman works on her backstroke technique. (Photo by Julie Willian)
The Adventures of Aunt Sissy and Wayde: Got Your Nose! I was never willing to give up the last bite. I never had the ability to heal a wound with my kiss. Spending a whole paycheck on one person’s Christmas seemed ridiculous. I never jumped around like an idiot just to earn a laugh. That all changed on Feb. 12, 2010, when my nephew, Wayde was born. Becoming an aunt changed my whole perspective on what it took to love. Before Wayde came into my life, I simply saw love as something that came easily. It seemed as if love was just a feeling that came about with no sacrifice and no challenges. Now that I’m an aunt of a soon-to-be two-year-old little boy, that whole view has been altered. You cannot fully love someone until you learn how to sacrifice for them. If that’s
Kelsey White Expressions Editor what it takes to show Wayde that I love him, I’m willing to give up anything. For instance, just the other night, I was at my sister’s house, lying on the floor, holding Wayde over my head as his infectious laugh filled the room. We were playing one of
the many games I’ve grown to love, “airplane,” or as he calls it, “alpane.” When my arms got tired, I pulled him down and began tickling him, standing up as he giggled. I was fully on my feet when he pointed to his nose, indicating it was time for another game. With my hand, I pinched his small nose, receiving a toothy smile. In return, Wayde pinched my nose, yelling “got nuh nose!” and laughing uncontrollably. The happiness continued for a few more seconds of back and forth “nose-getting” when an open hand came towards to my face in an aggressive way. I felt his fingernails grasp around my nose and pull. It wasn’t until I was styling his hair in the bathroom that I
realized that blood was running down the side of my nose. Of course I was in pain, but if it meant he was happy, I honestly didn’t mind it. Going to school with two big scratches on my nose didn’t bother me. I was, in a sense, proud to show off my “battle scars,” because I knew I had received them by being a good aunt. This whole view I have on love isn’t just brought on by Wayde, but everyone. Anyone can relate to the fact that love requires sacrifice and pain. Love is no longer that feeling you got when you saw a puppy as a child. Nor is it the butterflies that flutter about your stomach when the guy you like brushes shoulders with you in the hall. It’s simply a test to prove that the feelings you have for
someone are stronger than the feelings you have for yourself. You have to be willing to show someone you love them by giving up something that means a great deal to you or going through something that causes you pain. You also learn to forgive others for stuff that, in the long run, really isn’t that important. Without sacrifice, you cannot know love. Before I met Wayde, watching Yo Gabba Gabba and Elmo repeatedly wasn’t my ideal sleepover, but now, it sounds just right. Before him, I would get mad if my homework that I had worked so hard on was ripped up or colored on, but now, it’s easy to look past. I never knew how to love until I became “Aunt Sissy.”
Poem: Waiting For the Rain to Fall Have you ever stopped to stand still in the rain, reminiscing life’s memories as they flash before your eyes? Tears form in your eyes for it’s so easy to hide, the feeling of safety in the pouring rain, unable to see a tear as it falls. Have you ever found yourself lost, looking through the glass as the rain comes pouring down? Remembering every tragedy you’ve experienced and every fear you’ve facedmoments that will never fade. Have you ever fallen asleep, listening to the lullaby of the rain falling from the night sky? As if time froze and it’s waiting for you to take that last breath before falling into a deep sleep.
Have you ever walked in rain without a care? Within every step, it’s as if you’re being cleansed by angels’ tears. The sort of renewal that brings you to life, it seems, with nothing to fear and to never feel hurt. Rain has a way of making us all feel safe. For some, it gives us a chance to release the hurt, the anger that has been trapped inside for too long. For others, it forms that safe haven inside, that comforts us when we try running away from the world, searching for an answer in solitary. I look to the rain when I feel as if my world is falling apart. It’s my escape from the judgmental people and this cruel world we live in.
And when I feel like all hope is lost, in the middle of a dark storm, I stand still, as each drop hits me like bullets all around. I fall to my knees as my tears rush down the side of my face, racing each raindrop as they collide into me. Holding back the tears doesn’t mean that you’re strong. It takes true strength to let it out and show the pain you’re truly feeling. So I cry with the angels out in the storm. Life is full of sorrow and suffering, you just have to learn how to comfort yourself when it’s thrown at you. Just let the tears fall because holding back the tears is like waiting for the rain to fall.
Emily Daniel, 11
I like soft rock. It gives me the opportunity to escape from the real world, and I get lost in the music and relate all of it to what’s going on in my life. The last song that I listened to was Always by Bon Jovi. Derek McKenzie, 11
I like to listen to country music, because it makes me feel better about myself and it encourages me. The last song I listened to was I Love You This Big by Scotty McCreery.
Ms. Wilson, Arts & Humanities
I like a lot of types of music. I like classical because it relaxes me. The last song I listened to was probably Trust Me by The Fray. Illustration by Christian Puckett
Mr. Tegt, History
I listen to everything really. Music always makes me want to dance. The last song I listened to was God Gave Me You by Blake Shelton. -Raymond Borja, 12, right I like to listen to rap because I aspire to be a rapper. I want to be like Lil’ Wayne. The last song I listened to was probably something by Lil’ Wayne or Drake. -Katie Mefford, 11, left
Mady Perry, 9
I like mellow music when I’m making art. My favorites are Jack Johnson, Dave Matthews Band, and the Black Keys. The last song I listened to was probably something by the Black Eyed Peas or the Red Hot Chili Peppers.
ID’s from Page 28 (counterclockwise): Andrew Ping, Hannah Moore, Wes Renye, Matt Reed, Colin Conaway, Brooke Powell, Breanne Webb, Zach Sharp, Whitney McBride, Chase Austin, Hunter Osborne, Sandra Skinner, Bopper Stenzel, Charlie Rogers, and Pokey Harris.
Michal Wortham, 12
I have a lot of different types of music, but here lately, I’ve been listening to reggae. I love lots of bands. The last song I listened to was probably Love is Wicked by Brick and Lace.
I love classic rock. I really like Radiohead. The last thing I listened to was probably something techno, because I was running. It was DJ somebody. Ms. Mack, History
Page compiled by Kierra Jones and Kelsey White
who dey, who dey, who dey say gonna beat clark county?
C
For Photo IDs, see page 27. Page Design by Julie Willian
C A broken e’re proves “w bleacher y.” too rowd