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Lakeridge High School

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INSIDE 6-7 Page by Jamie Hamann

Test season hits soon

W i t h the first Opinion Editor semester finished and spring just around the corner, we are getting closer to testing season.

Spring is the most common time to take standardized tests such as the SAT and ACT in preparation for college, and the Smarter Balanced Test is administered not long after. AP tests take place in May, so LHS students have a busy testing schedule ahead of them.

The Smarter Balanced test was first introduced to LHS in spring 2014 when the Lake Oswego School District adopted the Common Core curriculum, and is separated into English and Math sections.

“The Smarter Balanced test is one way for students to demonstrate the essential skills for gradua t i on , ” Spring 2017 said curricu- Tests: lum director Desiree FishSAT: Mar. 11, May 6 er. “Kids tend to sell them- and June 3. selves short on the benefits ACT: Apr. 8 and Jun. that the test 10. provides for them.”

AP tests are administered in early-to-mid May, and students that score high enough will be eligible for college credit and therefore can bypass that course. Additionally, LHS juniors and seniors are not required to be enrolled in their respective AP English classes in order to take the AP tests, unlike other classes at LHS. The two standardized tests for college acceptance are the ACT and SAT. These will be administered a couple more times this year, and the sign up deadlines are slightly more than a month before the test date. The fee increases slightly if you are taking the writing portion.

This year the SAT was changed for the first time since 2005; the writing section is now optional, and the score scale was changed to a maximum of 1600. The ACT writing, on the other hand, has always been optional. However, many universities still require applicants to take the writing test for both.

February 20, 2017 Vol. 45 Issue 3

By Erik Svoboda

Photo by Liam Thropp

Senior Ari Akbari puts his phone in the pocket in AP Psychology teacher Natalie Shevlin’s classroom

Phone pockets make debut A s soon as you walk Staff Reporter in the door, place your phone in the pocket. Several teachers have decided to use the new phone pockets in their classrooms. Students using their phones in class has been a problem in the past, but now there is a solution.

Health teacher Rachel Griffin began using the phone pockets second semester of last spring. She was the first teacher at LHS to begin using them. She got the idea from a teacher at Lake Oswego High School because she needed students to be more engaged in her classroom.

“I need more focus,” said Griffin. “I was battling phones more than conversations. I really needed instructional time to be conversational between students as well as me.”

The struggle of battling phones constantly in class was an issue Griffin has in all her classes from freshman to seniors.

Some teachers who have started to use the phone pockets offer extra credit if you have your phone in the pockets everyday.

The expectation, however, still stands that even if you choose to not put your phone

By Katie Mahorney

in the front of the classroom, it will still stay off and away in your bag.

Some students oppose the idea of the phone pockets.

Junior Kathryn LeMoine only puts her phone in the pockets because there is extra credit offered.

“If the teachers told me to keep my phone in my locker, I would be ok, I don’t like my phone being exposed in front of the classroom” said LeMoine.

Other students think that if you are using your phone in class, it should have to go in the pocket, but if it is off and in your backpack, teachers should not take it.

Sophomore Chloe Renner thinks the phone pockets can help teachers if they are having problems with individual students.

“I think they should be used as a last resort. The teacher should first try and trust the students to not go on their phones during class,” said Renner.

Junior Ava Creasy doesn’t mind the pockets.

“Using phone pockets helps me make the best of my time on my phone and makes me more aware of my daily usage,” said Creasy.

According to a CNN news report, teens spend an average of nine hours each day

on social media. These caddies are a way of possibly reducing that number considerably.

Junior Scott Hermanns feels as though he uses his phone often in class but it doesn’t disrupt his learning.

“The phone pockets are kind of like change pockets. There’s no urgent rea-

“The teacher should try and trust the students first” -Chloe Renner son to use them, but they look nice on the wall” said Hermanns.

These phone caddies have provided teachers with the opportunity to re-think how their students are spending class time. For many teachers, the caddies eliminate the constant monitoring of the phones all together and help them place more focus in their curriculum.

No school Decembrrr: Winter break part two

By Jordan Nelson

Lake Oswego had Staff Reporter an unforgettably harsh winter this year, which unfortunately took a toll on the school’s schedule resulting in students missing a total of 11 days.

Due to the accumulation of days missed, the Lake Oswego School District decided to have school on President’s Day and tack on two days to the end of the school year. The school also had to push back finals one week which made first semester a little longer.

Obviously, there is some debate around this because this doesn’t really affect the seniors, so for some teachers doing this doesn’t really make up for the days missed.

Students, of course, had strong opinions about the snow days as well. Senior Gillian

Anderson was beginning to get tired of the snow after only a couples days.

“There isn’t much you can do when it snows, part of me wishes I was just at school getting things done,” said Anderson. A lot of other teachers expressed the same feeling the third time it had snowed as it started to get repetitive.

Another big change was Morp, it was initially intended to be on Jan 7, then was moved to Jan. 15, and was finally on Feb. 4 all due to the roads being in icy conditions.

This snowstorm was amongst the top 10 in Portland history, with this year setting a record of the most snow in Portland history on Jan. 10-11 with 11.4 inches.

It is still winter and it won’t get much warmer until spring, however this was still a winter that was out of the norm.

Photo by Liam Thropp

Kenzie Hudler wanders into the icy winter forest around Trillium Lake.

2 February 20, 2017 UN recently appoints new secretary general

By Abby Coleman Feature Editor

António Guterres, the former Prime Minister of Portugal, was appointed as the new United Nations Secretary-General of the United States on Dec. 31, 2016.

Guterres has served in the UN’s refugee agency based in Geneva for 10 years as the High Commissioner for Refugees which will help implement change, especially with the refugee crisis. The influence that Guterres exudes has caused many to form a strong opinion of António Guterres like LHS history teacher Brittany Larson.

“Guterres has to make nice with Trump to secure funding, since the US provides around 20 percent of the UN’s funding,” said Brittany Larson.

Some people have skepticism towards the UN’s abilities and role around the world, including the newly-inaugurated President of the United States, Donald Trump.

“His experience will help,” said Larson. “I would love to see them make headway on Syria and the refugee crisis.”

On Guterres’ first day in office, he implemented to his staff the need for teamwork in the New York UN Headquarters by calling the entire UN to fix their shortcomings to reorganize the UN development system.

Not only does Guterres recognize the importance of unity, he embraces major diversity representation in the higher positions held at the UN headquarters.

On Jan. 1, Guterres, in an address tributing UN personnel that have lost their lives on duty, stated his New Year’s resolution: “Let us resolve to put peace first.”

Guterres has already made an appeal for peace in that address creating hope for peace to be present in upcoming United Nation’s efforts and resolutions.

“He’s a little more off-the-cuff and brazien than the former Secretary General so Guterres might ruffle some feathers to get action drawing with terrorism and refugees,” said Brittany Larson.

With the fresh perspective of Guterres, the United Nations will cease a new kind of leadership. Guterres will serve as the United Nations Secretary-General until Dec. 31, 2021, for a term of five years. His expectations for his term will push resolutions for world problems that no longer can be ignored.

NEWS

Page design by Jamie Hamann

War on terror continues in Aleppo Although not currently Editor-in-Chief in a physical war, the United States has been fighting the War on Terror for some time now.

The Islamic State (ISIS) has filled news sites, social media and our minds with images of destruction, death and panic. Specifically, Aleppo has been of interest to the media.

Aleppo, Syria is the biggest and said-tobe-longest populated city and has been under the control of rebels for years. Syria’s current president, Bashar Assad, recently won back Aleppo on Dec. 22 from ISIS after nearly six years of war, however. But that doesn’t mean that everything is better for the citizens who once called The Old City their home.

President Donald Trump recently signed an executive order that closes the US borders to refugees for 120 days, including Syrian refugees whose home’s were taken from them or had to be abandoned during the war.

Citizens both here and away are outraged.

Many have taken to the airports, even PDX, to protest the ban. Seven year old Bana Alabed has taken to paper to voice her concerns.

Alabed, also known as “The Aleppo Girl” who was made famous by her tweets about Aleppo, during the airstrikes. She wrote a letter to President Trump.

The letter was sent to BBC news by the girl’s mother and, in it, she asks him for help for the Syrian children and shared her firsthand experience in the war, calling Aleppo “the city of death.”

There is an estimated 21,000 civilians dead since 2011, according to Fox News, and an estimated 11 million Syrians who have fled, and

By Sam Hoevet

have little intention of returning, according to syrianrefugees.eu.

Many civilians have been seeking refuge in neighboring countries as well others. 4.8 million civilians alone have fled to Turkey, Jordan, Lebanon, Iraq and Egypt.

Over the US’ fiscal year, which ended in Sept. 2016, there was an admitted 84,995 refugees into the country. There have been more refugees who have entered since then as well.

In fact, there were 31,143 admitted from Oct. 1 through Jan. 24 according to Pew Research Center.

The city of Aleppo itself was spared the mass destruction of the Syrian Civil War, which began in March 2011, but its eastern districts were eventually thrust into ruin after rebels entered.

Aleppo received almost-daily airstrikes, employed by Russia, and attacks as the government mauled it with barrels of explosives in an attempt to win the city back from the rebels, but to no avail.

The rebels even started digging tunnels to avoid the airstrikes, which coincidentally made it easier for them to employ sneak attacks.

In addition to Russian airstrikes and forces, Lebanon’s Hezbollah group and Shiite militias from Iraq and elsewhere were on the front line aiding the Syrian Armed Forces in the take-back of the city. Meanwhile, the United States, Turkey, Saudi Arabia, Qatar and others have been supplying aid since the start of the war.

The world has come and will keep coming together in order to one day stop the reign of terror. With more and more cities being taken back and the Syrian Government gaining a

Map of Aleppo foothold, it will only be a matter of time before more ground is won and the war comes to a close.

President Trump signs 12 executive orders EXECUTIVE ORDERS--------Order

Date Signed

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1/27/17

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1/28/17

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1/30/17

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2/9/17

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13775

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2/9/17

During the fi rst week of Sports Editor President Donald Trump’s presidency, Trump signed multiple executive orders, creating laws without rgoing to Congress. As of Monday, Jan. 30, Trump has signed 11 executive orders.

Trump’s first major executive order repeals the Affordable Care Act, which is known as Obamacare. This repeal was one of Trump’s main campaign exports he repeatedly mentioned.

Secondly, he signed an order of freezing the number of government workers. This will allow for the slow descending for a smaller central government. With correlation to this, he also stated that America will stop withdrawing oil from the Trans-Pacific partnership trade deal. This will allow for domestic oil consumption and provide more legal American people with well paying jobs.

He also enforced what is known as the “Mexico City Policy,” which instituted a ban on federal funds being sent to international aid groups who provide abortions. Following that signing, he composed one declaring pipeline order which President Trump be-

By Sara Nyland

lieves will increase jobs for American people, also manufacturing the pipeline through the US. Another order was signed asking for every branch of the military to state their “readiness” domestic and globally. He also signed two orders stating and declaring for richer and better border security.

Based on border security, he enforced a ban for a five-year ban on Lobbyist under the Obama administration, and a lifetime ban on those regarding foreign policies.

Another order gave the secretary of defense a 30-day window to come up with a plan to defeat ISIS. Another one restructured the National Security Council and the Homeland Security Council. Trump also signed for a rule upon disappearance of two rules.

Which states that by adding another “rule” to the government, congress must abolish two in replace of one.

His most known and most controversial order passed was his ban on seven countries.

Placing an 120 day ban on seven countries, a prevention for those citizens entering the US. That order is currently on hold, as the court system has put a stay on it.

NEWSPACER Staff Editorial Staff Content Editor ............................... Sam Hoevet Reporter Editor .........................Georgia Weeks Management Editor ................. Kenzie Hudler Section Editors Feature Editor ................ .......... Abby Coleman News Editor ......... Savanna Courtney-Durrett

Sports Editor.. ............................... Sara Nyland Opinion Editor. ............................Erik Svoboda Layout Editor ............................ Jamie Hamann Photo Editor ................................. Liam Thropp Adviser Erin Schloetter

Reporters Sophie Beriault, Garrett Bolen, Olivia Case, Abby Coleman, Savanna Courtney-Durrett, Ava Eucker, Riley Granger, Jamie Hamann, Sam Hoevet, Kenzie Hudler, Katelyn Kupper, Katie Mahorney, Lauren Monkewicz, Taylor Morelli, Jordan Nelson, Sara Nyland, Erik Svoboda, Liam Thropp, Sims, Georgia Weeks, Margaret Zackery

The Newspacer is the official publication of the newspaper class at Lakeridge High School. The Newspacer staff welcomes your feedback. Letters to the editor will be printed as written, except in the case of obscenity, libel or personal defamation. Letters will be printed at the discretion of the editors. Letters may not exceed 300 words. Letters will not be edited for spelling or grammar, but may be edited for length. Letters must be signed. Letters to the editor can be brought to Erin Schloetter’s box in the main office or can be mailed to Georgia Weeks c/o Erin Schloetter, P.O. Box 739, Lake Oswego, OR 97034. They may also submitted on our website at Lakeridgenewspacer.com As per Oregon law, the Newspaper is a forum for student expression and the opinions expressed in this publication represent those of the individual writers, but do not necessarily reflect those of Lakeridge faculty and/or staff. The unsigned editorial in each issue represents a consensus of the Newspacer’s editorial board, composed of the three major editors.

Front Row: Georgia Weeks, Liam Thropp, Kenzie Hudler, Sam Hoevet Row 2: Garrett Bolen, Sims, Taylor Morrelli, Abby Coleman, Sara Nyland, Sophie Beriault, Katie Mahorney Row 3: Katelyn Kupper, Lauren Monk, Savanna Courtney-Durrett, Olivia Case, Riley Granger, Jamie Hamann, Ava Eucker, Jordan Nelson, Erik Svoboda, Margaret Zackery

Page By Taylor Morrelli

OPINION

February 20, 2017

3

Making the most of high school

By Georgia Weeks Editor-in-Chief

Cartoon by: Margaret Zackery

My mom asked me when I left Hallinan for Waluga what my favorite grade had been, I said sixth. The same went for middle school, my favorite year being eighth. Now coming to another change of schools, I’d say twelfth. Now, I’m finally becoming a second semester senior.

Everyone seems anxious but excited going into this semester. Because I missed the first week of school, I still felt like a junior! I had to grasp the idea of not being at LHS next year.

Now, a mere 123 days, 9 hours, 29 minutes and 16...15...14 seconds away, I want to know where all the time went but also how fast can I get to that finish line?

Senior Kaya Bothe is excited for a new adventure after high school.

“High school was a rollercoaster of ups and downs” said Bothe.

The Tower of Terror is a great comparison to my last four years. On the way up I’m excited yet anxious for what will happen. I finally get to the top and the view is great. Three, two, one and life sucks. It gets a little better, then bad again. From freshman to senior year I can recall something amazing and terrible that happened each year.

Senior Cade Doebele recalled his favorite memories: a tie between being able to go to the robotics world championship his sophomore year and going on the France trip, while both Maddie Cannady and Cole Pearson said the Pacers winning the Civil War football game freshman year was their favorite.

Being a second semester senior is like the end of the Tower of Terror ride, or someone holding a sign at a marathon that says you’re almost at the finish line.

As our time spent at LHS comes to a close, we all have bucket list items we want to achieve before we walk across the stage in those shiny, blue robes.

Do we play lacrosse, win a state championship, get a 4.0, take an epic four-day roadtrip with our friends or make a new friend?

In the end, it’s all the same. Walk across the stage. Don’t trip. Shake hands, hug. Graduate.

LHS couples on Valentine’s “Teen love” is a sarcastic comment from parents and adults alike who see high school relationships as trivial; however, it is in these early relationships where you can learn a lot about the basics of dating and about yourself.

Opposites attract: by meeting someone who may have different interests, one can learn a lot more about their own values and what makes them happy. For example, you might have never owned a pair of Jordans before, but then you play basketball with your significant other and you say “Dang! I need to cop a pair of these!” At Lakeridge, there’s a very diverse student body, making it a great place to find a special someone.

Both freshmen, Abbi Fedrizzi and Ethan McEachern have been seeing each other for four months.

How did you guys meet?

Abbi: We met at school, at first we hated each other!

Then we got over our differences and became friends.

What is your ideal date?

Ethan: We like to watch movies.

Favorite thing about him/her?

Abbi: I like that we both play basketball. I try to make it to all of his games!

Ethan: Abbi has a really nice personality!

Sophomores Hailey Brisbee and Jackson McGinley have been together for a whopping year and three months.

How did you guys meet?

Jackson: We got to know each other through lacrosse, we both play.

Ideal date?

Hailey: We love hanging out together and watching movies.

Favorite thing about him/her?

Hailey: His hair.

Jackson: Hailey is always really fun.

Ashlynn Lawston and Jack Chapman, both juniors, have been dating for 13 months.

How did you guys meet?

Jack: We were friends at school, we got to know each other better through cross country.

Ideal date?

Ashlynn: Hanging out with Lily, hiking and getting ice cream, even in winter!

Jack: We like going into Portland, hiking and bowling.

Favorite thing about him/her?

Ashlynn: I love that we have the same sense of humor.

Jack: We have similar interests, like running.

Seniors Rihana Barrera and Noah Dodds have been together for 11 months.

How did you guys meet?

Rihana: We had chemistry in Chemistry class!

Ideal date?

Rihana: We like hiking to cool new places.

Noah: My favorite date we’ve been on was going to the City Grill and then to a Migos concert.

Favorite thing about him/her?

Rihana: His bad common sense makes conversation funny.

Noah: I really like how honest Rihana is and that she says what’s on her mind.

High school years can be crazy with lots of tests, extracurriculars, and balancing busy schedules. During these often stressful times it is nice to have someone to motivate, inspire, comfort, and brighten one’s day.

High school is a time for growth for us all, and developing early relationships add to the growth.

Driving in the snow in LO

By Liam Thropp Photo Editor

Just because you have four wheel drive doesn’t mean you know how to drive it right.

With the recent “Snowpocalypse” in our past, it raised a few concerns for me watching almost every car slide and spin on the snow-covered roads of Lake Oswego. It shows how unprepared we are for even a dusting of thin snow.

Many believe it was somewhat wrong for us to not have school, but some thought it was a good call.

“Even though I had four wheel drive, I skidded out a lot and got stuck at my friend’s house twice,” said senior Kendall Marshall. “I think it was a smart call for LOSD to cancel school.” To further prevent your car from spinning out,

here are a few tips to get you on your way more safely.

When starting your car, make sure to let it warm up for about five minutes before driving because the engine is the same temperature as outside, which is freezing. When on the neighborhood streets, keep the speedometer below 15 mph. The faster you go, the more slipping you will do.

Avoid hills of course, and bridges when possible. Bridges are the first to freeze in cold weather.

And, as a precaution, always have some extra warm clothes in your car just in case you get stranded. I may be helpful to pack some water and food in the trunk for the same reason.

I hope that your next adventure into the cold doesn’t involve you sliding into the lane next to you, but instead getting to your destination safe and sound.

Photo By Liam Thropp

A Lake Oswego road covered in snow and ice during the recent snow storm.

4

OPINION

Feburary 20, 2017

Page design by Savanna Courtney-Durrett

How hype ruins things

A deeper look into the marketing strategies of businesses The feeling of “hype” that surges throughout you Entertainment Editor when something new is announced can be pretty detrimental to the way you enjoy an anticipated product, and it could be a waste of money as well.

Hype is a magnificent buzzword because it describes not only a relatively new pattern in marketing entertainment, but a real sensation that humans feel very strongly. We all get excited over new additions to things we love, but just as strong as it is that disappointment we may feel once we get it.

This feeling is terrible, but it’s not the marketer’s fault.

They only mean to use the most effective methods of enticing people to buy a product, and if they can successfully rally groups of people together to feel excited to spend their money, they’ve done their job incredibly well.

DC’s superhero movie, “Suicide Squad,” received very mediocre reviews, but remains to be one of the top grossing movies of 2016. This was due to their excellent form of building hype through trailers, celebrity appearances, spinoffs and merchandise.

This isn’t manipulating us because all it takes is a simple step back and overview of the situation to reveal the true nature of the product, or it’s hidden flaws.

For example, “No Man’s Sky” was a product that gathered huge amount of hype, but this one is a $60 videogame.

On release, players found the game to be less than what advertisers had made it out to be, and their was a bit of outrage as a result. While many people were victim to this hype, many waited for the reviews to kick in due to the expensive nature of the game, or bought the game but ended up enjoying it because they were never caught up in any ideas of what could be better.

Still, “No Man’s Sky” made a lot of profit just based off of this hype.

If you try to be use common sense and criticism while indulging in this marketing, you won’t feel disappointed with the product. You won’t feel that you wasted your hard earned money.

If you think way the overall quality of entertainment will go up, because it will no longer being the advertising pulling people in, but the quality of the product itself.

By Sims

Photo from ‘Hidden Figures”

A still from the movie “Hidden Figures” featuring Octavia Spencer as Dorothy Vaughan.

Retracing history’s steps History reminds us News Editor of the progress made over time, and how much more there is for us to accomplish. The powerful film, “Hidden Figures,” brings to light the accomplishments of women working at NASA in the 1960s. The obstacles faced by the women in this film are reflections of the some of the obstacles faced by women today. On Jan. 21, 2016 over one million women marched in Washington D.C., as well as across the nation, in support of women’s rights.

The Women’s March, one of the most powerful protests in recent times, painted a beautiful picture of support from a wide spectrum of people as they marched in support of encouraging current political figures that they would not be written aside in history, nor would their rights.

The main characters in the film are faced with the issues of their era, many of which we still see today, which can solely be summarized into one word: discrimination.

These remarkable women faced discrimination in virtually every possible aspect: for simply being women, the color of their skin and the profession they shined in.

Not only are the women of the film portraying women making an impact, they are also making an impact on women today. Octavia Spencer, who plays Dorothy Vaughan in the film, bought all tickets to the 8 p.m. showing of the film at a Los Angeles movie theater. Spencer encouraged families “in need that would like to see our

By Savanna Courtney-Durrett

movie but can’t afford it have them come,” on her Instagram along with a powerful image of herself as Vaughn in “Hidden Figures.”

The film has received an overwhelmingly positive response, and recently won a major award at the Screen Actors Guild, or SAG, award show.

When accepting the award, Taraji P. Henson delivered a powerful speech highlighting the importance of unity in all times, with “This film is about unity.

The shoulders of the women that we stand on are three American heroes...without them, we would not know how to reach the stars,” said Henson at the SAG awards.

“Hidden Figures” reminds us all of the steps taken by women in history to accomplish their dreams, and how we can find applications in our lives. The power of unity, as mentioned by Henson in her speech, by was displayed in all recent protests, as it showed the recognition for change and the desire to not be written into history as a hidden figure.

“Hidden Figures reminds us all of the steps taken by women in history. ” - Savanna Durrett

Women’s March: Respectful or Rebellious?

On Saturday, Jan. 21, millions of people gathered around Staff Reporter the world to march for equality.

Though it was named the Women’s March on Washington, the march was for equality of all kinds.

I myself attended the march in Portland, where march estimates were over 70,000 people. I loved the fact that police officers were accepting towards the cause, the family-friendly atmosphere, and the empowerment, not to mention the kindness of the people marching.

However, there were other things I didn’t feel right about.

Afterwards, I saw posts on Twitter criticizing the march, from people who believed that peaceful protesting would get nothing done. I also saw people arguing that police officers should not be humanized because of the things they have historically done to people of color.

This felt wrong.

I believe that America needs to truly understand that we are all human and should be treated as such--including those who oppose us. Even those who hold opinions that cause harm to many. If we take their humanity from them, then we are no better than they are.

Our efforts to reduce the harm of their ideas should be reasonable and peaceful.

I attended the Women’s March because I was raised to fight back against things that are unjust, but I’m trying to heal the wounds that the election caused because I was also raised to understand and forgive. Nobody will fit perfectly into the box of “Liberal” or “Conservative” and assuming so is damaging.

I believe that the world cannot be split into good people and Trump supporters, because the two are not mutually exclusive.

Treating others with humanity is the only way to receive the same respect. Consistent, peaceful resistance can invoke real listening from the other side. However, if we yell, we run the risk of drowning out our own message.

At the march, I was surrounded by positive interactions with all kinds of people, and most importantly I saw no hate. This is the kind of conversation I want to see continue as we move forward into the unknown future of Trump’s presidency.

By Riley Granger

On a Saturday morning in January the streets of America filled with Sports Editor millions of women who marched for an unrealistic truth: President Trump is an advocate for the “abolishment” of women’s rights.

Question: When exactly has President Trump said anything regarding taking away rights from women in the US who have earned and rightfully deserve them? The answer is simple: He never has.

These women marched in opposition to a man who they believe will get rid of their basic rights as American women. This is interesting, considering most marchers’ first pick for the Presidency was a woman that accepted millions of dollars from middle-eastern countries who oppress women and condemn gays.

Over the course of the last month, women who stand for the silent majority of women who were not marching and holding false accusations over their heads on poster board were carrying on with life. This majority stands strong with the truth that Trump has not mentioned his views on birth control and he has not directly stated his expected policies for abortion.

Accusations of President Trump being anti-woman, which doesn’t add up to the fact that he has surrounded himself with many women who make up his cabinet and administration, such as Kellyanne Conway, advisor to Trump; Nikki Haley, UN ambassador; Betsy DeVos, Education Secretary; Kathleen Troia McFarland, National Secretary Advisor; and many more gracious and educated women who stand alongside President Trump.

The women who were marching for abortion were marching for the protection of their right to kill what could have been a strong, intelligent, brave citizen of America. What message does that give to you, ladies? That it is okay to eliminate what could have been the rights of unborn children who never got the chance to fight for something they believe in. Doesn’t make much sense, does it?

March on, but remember protests against our new President composed of women who want the man to abruptly fail will not stop Photo By Olivia Case him from doing what he was elected to do.

Nyland take a If that is you, then keep on playing the victim card. March on, but America will be put first.

By Sara Nyland

Riley Granger and Sara stance on politics.

Page design by Erik Svoboda

FEATURE

Things you haven’t considered about community college Community college is often underlooked by the averFeature Editor age LHS student. The stigma that revolves going to community college is far from the truth. In reality, community college is a good opportunity for any student no matter their GPA. Governor Kate Brown issued the Oregon Promise, which is a state grant that covers some or all tuition at any Oregon community college for recent high school graduates and GED recipients.

“This is the second year that the Oregon Promise is in play and our governor has set aside $10 million for the state grant,” said transition specialist Joann Bittner.

This law has created immense opportunity for all students looking to further their education for free. You just need to have an overall GPA of 2.5 or higher to receive the grant.

“If you talk to a recent graduate with a degree from a four-year college, the majority of them if the Oregon Promise was in play, they would have gone two years at a community college then transfer into a four-year college,” said Bittner.

Many Lakeridge graduates took this wise advice, including Graham Lawson who graduated in the class of 2016.

“You get take the same required courses, but at a much cheaper price,” said LHS graduate Graham Lawson.

He is able to work more, meaning he actually has his own income unlike the average broke college student who does not have time for a job. Not a lot of students have time to work and go to school at the same time. Community college will allow you to further your work experience.

“It is very common for students to raise their GPA and get their required classes done at community college then transfer to a four-year college,” said Lawson.

Once, you feel you are ready for a four-year college to focus on your major, it is easy to carry over your credits from a community to any other college.

Outside of Lake Oswego, community college is extremely common and not an option that someone should be ashamed of.

Oregon has a lot of community colleges throughout the entire state. Metro area community colleges include, Portland Community College(PCC) and Clackamas Community College(CCC).

“The advantage of community college is that you can take classes at a community college to get your prerequisites done with smaller class sizes,” said Bittner.

There are many majors and programs including study abroad available at PCC. It is not only a way to get your prerequisite classes done, but a way to expand your knowledge and get your degree at little to no cost.

“You save so much money and have a lower risk at debt,” said Bittner.

Today, young people are at greater risk for debt primarily due to student loans. Since the recession in 2008, many students struggle to get jobs straight out of college and are not able to make enough to pay off their loans.

Community college generally puts you in a stable financial situation when you graduate making your life easier in the future.

Life is full of opportunities for growth and achievement, by having a degree from a community college or a four year college will allow you future success in your career. With the education of a college degree, you will possess the necessary skills to make it in the real world.

By Abby Coleman

February 20, 2017

5

Ben Seydel: A true role model Besides the fact that he is from Germany and plays a lot of soccer, what more do you really know about LHS senior Ben Seydel?

You may know his twin brother, Paul Seydel, who is also a senior at LHS. However, Ben is definitely worth getting to know better.

He is a veteran Pacer, as he has attended LHS all four years of his high school career. During his years at LHS, his favorite memory so far has been winning state for boys varsity soccer. While soccer has been a big part of his life growing up, he enjoys other activities as well. When he’s not defending other players, Ben skis, snowboards a little, works at Adidas and plays FIFA as well as putt-putt golf.

Not only is Ben an admirable soccer player, but he’s also a friendly and hard-working addition to the Pacer community according to senior Maddie Leimbach.

“Ben is an easy-going guy who is fun to be around and works hard for himself and his fellow pacers,” said Leimbach.

Ben also has big plans for his future education and career.

“I plan to either study in Germany or the United States,” said Ben. “Although, I’m not sure yet. I also want to have a job in business.”

On a less serious note, Ben also has a more laid-back and unique personality that not everyone knows about.

“My weirdest talent is definitely not being annoyed by my brother, Paul,” said Ben. “But it’s also great because I get to have a best friend whenever I need him.”

He also claims that his spirit animal is a wolf, because “wolves can travel in a close-knit pack and walk alone from time to time,” said Ben. His favorite artists include Childish Gambino and Chance the Rapper, which was coincidentally his first concert not too long ago.

Not surprisingly, his celebrity crush is American soccer player, Olympic gold medalist and FIFA Women’s World Cup champion Alex Morgan. Lastly, his favorite candy is the classic caramel apple lollipop.

By Kenzie Hudler Editor-in-Chief

Photo by Liam Thropp

Ben Seydel, LHS Pacer of the Issue While Ben is extremely talented with his feet on a soccer field, he admits to not having the same skill level with a frying pan in his hand.

“I can only really cook three meals: pasta with egg, which is a traditional German dish, cereal with milk and spaghetti,” said Ben. After getting to know Ben further than what we see on the soccer field or in the classroom, he seems to be a very fun, kind and interesting guy overall. Principal’s Secretary Corey Fivecoat agrees.

“He is the most helpful and nicest boy at Lakeridge. He always smiles and says hi,” said Fivecoat. “Overall, he is very authentic.”

Durga Tree Club is making a difference

You may have seen their posters around school or selling handmade bracelets Editor-in-Chief at lunch, but do you really know what the Durga Tree International Club here at LHS is about? I spoke with LHS freshman and President of Durga Tree Club Aislinn Marek to find out.

“The Durga Tree International Club raises money for Durga Tree International, a non-profit organization dedicated to educating and economically empowering survivors of modern human slavery,” said Marek. “We spread awareness about human trafficking by talking about what we can do to help communities who are affected by human trafficking.”

The Durga Tree International Club here at LHS was originally founded by Marek herself. However, she had a supportive group of friends to help her get the project going, which includes many current club members such as Secretary Justine Ricca, Treasurer Bailey Tharp, Ayla Fashana, Amanda LeMoine, Emma Day, Celeste Williams, Amanda McCord, Claire Fennell, Madi Michie, Jamie Munt and Miranda Markstaller.

Marek also explained just how relevant this issue is in not only society as a whole, but in our communities as well.

By Kenzie Hudler

“Human trafficking is relevant to every community be- Club Information cause we are a global society,” - Meets after school: said Marek. “Even in the PortD-6 on blue days, land and Lake Oswego area human trafficking is taking B-32 on white place.” days Also, according to you- Founded by Aislinn thendingslavery.org, “Portland is often cited as the city Marek with the highest rate of juve- - Fights to end hunile sex trafficking in the coun- man trafficking try.”

With human trafficking being such a prevalent issue in a community so close to our own, Durga Tree Club has been taking action wherever they can.

“We do fundraisers like the bracelet sale, which raises money for survivors...but we are also walking in Durga Tree’s annual walkathon,” said Marek.

If you’re interested in joining Durga Tree Club in the fight to end global human trafficking, the club meets every other Friday in D-6 on blue days and B-32 on white days after school.

Second semester seniors: Attendance still counts

Attendance in high school is a big deal. It matters just as Staff Reporter much as anything else. However, students in the second semester get stressed out and tired from the previous five months of school work.

Deputy Superintendent Salam Noor told the Oregon Department of Education that there has been an increasing number in student attendance and that starting with the kids in kindergarden, we can boost student outcomes and the graduation rates.

Although these things can be extremely stressful on students, your attendance still matters. Principal Jennifer Schiele had a lot to say about seniors missing school and the missing students that schools see towards the end of the year.

“If they are not planning on going to college or they are planning on going to a two year college then it tends to not matter as much to them or they may think it’s not going to affect them as much, so they might [skip],” said Schiele.

“We do have to send a final transcript to colleges so…”

Attendance matters because you miss out on key infor-

By Kate Kupper

mation in your classes. Whether you were excused or not, many teachers might not be able to take out that extra time in their day to re-teach you the information that you missed.

Schieele and attendance secretary Karen Kahn both agree that there is a very obvious drop in attendance once the second semester rolls around, especially for second semester seniors.

Vice principal John Parke also has seen this case of “senioritis” in large numbers, especially once the fourth quarter rolls around.

“This last semester, only about 15 percent of the seniors were chronically [when you miss 10 percent or more of the school year] absent,” said vice principal John Parke. “In fourth quarter I really have to work hard to keep kids in school.”

Parke also said the seniors tend to be the ones with the least amount of attendance overall.

“Generally for seniors second semester, it’s one of those things that it is a challenge for seniors to get to school,” said Parke. “They start to rationalize what classes they can miss.”

So seniors, even though there is a lot to do in this last year of high school, don’t forget about LHS.

Photo by Liam Thropp

Four attendance passes.

Fake news, real problems Cameron Harris said it best: “BREAKEditor-in-Chief ING: ‘Tens of thousands’ of fraudulent Clinton votes found in Ohio warehouse.”

His idea was simple, he had an interest in Republican politics and had read multiple quotes from now-President Donald Trump saying that the election would be rigged, the New York Times reported. Harris created a fake new site, ChristianTimesNewspaper.com, now taken down. With a headline and photograph, the world was on the edge of their seats.

During the recent presidential election, people were confused and upset when it came to the headlines written about the Republican and Democratic nominees, Trump and Hillary Clinton. Whether it was speculation of Pope Francis endorsing President Trump or an “investigation” into the Clinton Foundation’s ongoing pedophile sex ring at a pizza parlor, people believed it because the questionable news site reported it.

People are gullible, especially teenagers who get most of their information and news from social media apps and the internet. Haven’t we all seen a headline and assumed it to be true...even if it wasn’t?

“I get most of my information from sites like CNN and the New York Times,” said senior Eva Harn. “A lot of the time I’ll read something on Twitter then Google it to double check it’s not fake!”

This sounds like a good idea, but what if Google’s algorithms send you to a less-than-reputable site?

Culprits like DailyMail and Buzzfeed lure in readers with flashy headlines and overzealous photos. As of late,

By Georgia Weeks

sites like Facebook and Google are trying to combat the fake news epidemic by creating tools to automatically spot the faulty and inappropriate text and images before the user sees. Google has also cut fake news sites off from payments from Google AdSense services. “[Fake news] seems to be prominent online through clickbait so more people will view it...I haven’t noticed any on TV but I wouldn’t be surprised,” said senior Cody Divers when asked on the subject.

Along with ersatz-news sources comes with the real ones. Places like Twitter have become a battlefield of necessary and vapid arguments. While quoting other’s tweets with their own bold opinions, users have no boundaries on social media.

“Delete your account,” said Democratic nominee Hillary Clinton on June 9, 2016 quoting a tweet by Donald Trump.

Massachusetts Senator Elizabeth Warren tweeted on Jan. 20, the day of inauguration: “We must measure @ POTUS @realDonaldTrump by actions, not only words.

And today he made it harder for families to achieve the American Dream.”

If the Newspacer were to run a fake news story, for example, having found boxes of fake pre-checked Prom Queen votes, similar to Harris’ story, the school, the adult in charge, Dr. Schiele and the Editor-In-Chief could be sued for libel. Our story could intentionally harm someone’s reputation and result in possible shut down of the Newspacer.

Why haven’t many of these fake news purveyors faced the same consequences?

Social media: positive or negative affect on teens?

The question of whether social media is actually good for a person, specifically teenagers, continues to be explored With any aspect of the internet, there are positive and negative effects. Social media is one of the more Staff Reporter popular--and one of the more criticized--parts of the online world. Recently, there have been numerous sources dismissing social media as a gateway to anxiety, a lowered self-esteem and depression. And like any controversial topic, there are people taking sides.

“Social media causes a lot of problems. Things like cyberbullying and social anxiety. It’s just not worth it,” said junior Erin Brennan.

In a study done by the American Academy of Pediatrics, the authors explained both the benefits and the downfalls of the uses of social media for teenagers specifically.

As Brennan had previously mentioned, cyberbullying is one of the main components of the clinical report.

Using social media becomes a risk to adolescents more often than most adults realize. Most risks fall into the following categories: peerto-peer; inappropriate content; lack of understanding of online privacy issues; and outside influences of third-party advertising groups,” said Gwenn O’Keeffe and Kathleen Pearson, lead authors on the report.

So does this mean you should abandon social media completely?

Lately there has been a rise of the ‘social media detox’ where people log off their favorite apps indefinitely to break their obsession or get away from a toxic environment.

While many may not be to that point, there is an argument for logging off every once and awhile, especially if social media starts becom-

By Sophie Beriault

Photo by Liam Thropp

Student’s on DailyMail.

ing a negative aspect of your life.

“I rarely go on social media anymore.

Even if I had more free time I probably wouldn’t go back on it...too much work.” said Brennan.

In a poll done with 100 Lakeridge students, 21 believed that social media affected teenagers positively, 33 believed it had a negative affect and 46 decided that there was the potential for both.

But of course, you have to consider the other side of the argument.

“Social media sites allow teens to accomplish online many of the tasks that are important to them offline: staying connected with friends and family, making new friends, sharing pictures and exchanging ideas. Social media participation also can offer adolescents deeper benefits that extend into their view of self, community and the world,” said O’Keeffe and Pearson.

So, like many things in this world, social media has benefits and risks. While some may be ready to abandon it altogether, the online world of Facebook, Instagram and Twitter isn’t going anywhere anytime soon.

Positive 21 students

By Olivia Case

6

February 20, 2017

TV’s influence on careers

By Savanna Courtney-Durrett News Editor

“Dramatic” is one of the first words which comes to most people’s minds when they think about scripted television shows. However, while it is the drama which lures viewers into the shows many of us are infatuated with, could there be more to the reason why we select the shows we choose to watch?

Media is a primary influence in the lives of teenagers. A key example includes watching shows where the character’s career takes center stage, and this could lead individuals to follow a career path similar to those they see on screen.

Commonly these professions portrayed

Before the “Night Shift,” which changes the blue light to a sun comes yellow hue. Night Shift can decrease the amount Staff Reporter up, the drone of blue light that reaches the retina, and when of alarm there is less blue light, a full sleep is better enclocks is met with groggy students. To many sured. Some phone users dislike the way Night people (myself included), late-night Netflix is a Shift looks, since it changes the appearance of the normal thing. It hardly seems risky to watch a screen.

“I watch Netflix and listen to music before I go show or do a quick browse of social media before bed. In reality, electronic light can affect sleep in to sleep,” said senior Brittany Ngia. “But I don’t multiple ways, regardless of whether it’s from a use Night Shift, the yellow screen annoys me.”

Other students are a fan of phone, computer or television. the color-changing effect.

The eye’s retina can sense “I have [my phone] on “I use my phone every changes in light or darkness. In night before bed; I have it on the morning, the light signals the night shift mode and I night shift mode and I have brain to wake up. At night, the no problem falling asleep,” darkness tells the brain it’s time have no problem falling said junior Emma Marek. to sleep.

Blue light is also in effect According to Harvard Health, during the day, though in less the light emitted by electronic de- asleep” negative terms. Just as blue vices can prevent the retina from light can trick the mind into sensing darkness. The eye catego- -Emma Marek feeling awake when it needs rizes electronic light and sunlight as “blue light,” which to rest, it can do the same in the morning -- to the stops the production of individual’s benefit.

Exposure to electronic light can reduce the melatonin. Without this chemical, the brain never effects of tiredness and help the brain wake up.

Night Shift The process works for the same reason as it does gets the “sleep signal.” mode: This can cause the at night: blue light stops melatonin production. mind to feel awake even When less melatonin is distributed, the body when the body wants does not get the “cue” to sleep.

Changes typical Electronic light will inevitably affect sleep, but blue phone light to sleep. Blue light also a warmer-colored screen will lessen the negative disrupts the body’s natto a yellow hue ural sleep schedule. This effects, although it does change the screen’s look. schedule, called a “circa- So, if you can, steer clear of electronics before With less blue dian rhythm,” is essential sleep, and if that’s not possible (or you just can’t light, a full sleep to getting a full night’s wait to finish an episode) consider using Night is better ensured rest.

Shift.

And when your alarm goes off in the morning, To combat these effects, Apple released take your coffee with a dose of electronic light.

Photo by Olivia Case

Three LHS students engrossed in their phones.

Phones are preventing people from enjoying life At concerts, people spend hundreds of dollars to see Staff Reporter their favorite musicians.

When the music starts, phones are instantly visible and a sea of gleaming screens is presented.

The audience changes from a tangible crowd of people to an electronic buzz.

With friends, apps are opened and reopened. Memories pronounce themselves and leave just as fleetingly. Moments are recorded and rewatched. While life happens, screens are brightened, Snapchats are sent and the constant stream of photos never ceases.

According to the British Library, photography began in 19th century Europe as a primitive art form. When silver chloride and light were combined to create the first photograph, history was changed forever. Suddenly, “the fleeting could be fixed.”

Cameras became accessible to the public in 1840, according to a Georgetown University report. By the 1850s, photography had reached the United States.

Today, most phones boast a powerful camera far beyond what the original pioneers imagined. In the time since 2002 -- when the first phone camera was created -- photographic technology has changed drastically, as stated by CBC News.

The popular social media of today is built largely around photos, which has further cemented photography’s place in con-

By Olivia Case

temporary existence. One hundred million people use Snapchat daily, as shown by Business Insider.

Photography can be a fantastic way to convey an artistic meaning or capture the simple beauty in the passage of time, but there’s an inevitable downside: if Snapchat is constantly open and Instagram feeds are tirelessly updated, can anyone be fully present?

“If all you’re focused on is getting a perfect picture or funny video instead of enjoying what’s happening, then it does [take away from the experience],” said junior Emma Marek. “But if it’s just a quick snap to remember the moment, then no.”

And it’s not just students that feel this way.

“There’s a world you present on the internet and social media, and then there’s a real world,” said English teacher Kate Thomason. “You can’t be present in both.”

As declared by Chris McCandless of “Into the Wild,” “It is the experiences, the memories, the great triumphant joy of living to the fullest extent in which real meaning is found.” Experiences and photography have become intertwined to the point of indistinction.

At times, it can be difficult to tell whether photography is a help or a hindrance. There is no harm in taking a picture to capture a moment. The problem arrives when documenting life is preventing you from living it.

Take this quiz and find out if you have average high school knowledge

By Abby Coleman Feature Editor

1. Who is the Governor of Oregon?

A. John Kitzhaber B. Ted Kulongoski C. Bud Pearce D. Kate Brown 2. What are the three branches of government?

A. Judicial, Executive, Legislative B. Congress, Senate, House of Representatives C. President, Vice President, the Cabinet D. Birch, Oak, Maple 3. How many seats are in the Senate?

A. 25 B. 327 C. 100 D. 289

4. How long is the term of a Supreme Court justice?

A. 4 years B. 8 years C. Life D. 20 years 5. How old is someone born in the year 1990?

A. 27 B. 25 C. 30 D. 24

6. What is the Sixth Amendment of the Constitution?

A.The right to bear arms B. The right to a fair, speedy public trial C. Freedom of speech, assembly, expression and religion D. Prohibits the federal government from cruel and unusual punishment

7. What is the quadratic formula?

A. c²=a² + b² B. y= mx + b C. x= -4a + by(c-2) D. x= -b± √ (b²-4ac) 2a

10. What are the noble gases on the periodic table of the elements?

A. Hydrogen, Potassium, Gold, Copper, Silver, Oxygen B. Magnesium, Nickel, Iron, Lithium, Boron, Calcium C. Helium, Neon, Argon, Krypton, Xenon, Radon D. Sodium, Beryllium, Aluminum, Silicon, Titanium, Zinc

8. What is the powerhouse of the cell?

A. Ebola B. Nucleus C. Mitochondria D. Endoplasmic Reticulum

11. What is the correct way to punctuate a novel in an academic paper?

A. “The Great Gatsby” B. The Great Gatsby C. The Great Gatsby D. The Great Gatsby

9. Which sentence shows the correct placement of an apostrophe?

A. Oliver’s mom is a dentist.

B. Our pie’s are good.

C. We think the computers’ broken.

D. Carlos’s brother is two years older.

12. What does SOHCAHTOA stand for?

A. The order of operations B. Sine-opposite/hypotenuse, cosine-adjacent/hypotenuse, tangent-opposite/adjacent C. Subtract on hypotenuse, cotangents at height, tangent over area D. Speed, oxycontin, heroin, cocaine, amphetamine, hash, taxol, opium, adderall

Page design by Sam Hoevet

In Staff Reporter 2013, “Saturday Night Live” aired a skit criticizing Obamacare. A wig-adorned Kate McKinnon suggests “restarting a computer” to solve issues with the healthcare website. A 2014 skit depicted Ron Klain, elected by then-president Barack Obama to resolve ebola, in which interviewers questioned his authority in the medical field.

In 2017, Donald Trump, a.k.a. Alec Baldwin in a blond wig, is a feature in most episodes. On Feb. 4, 2017, a similar conference scene criticized both Sean Spicer and Betsy DeVos. Since the beginning, SNL has satirized political events and figures. An episode in the show’s first season poked fun at former president Gerald Ford.

Today, they’re receiving a rise in strong responses, and not all of them are positive. Trump himself took to Twitter to criticize the show’s content.

Satirical comedies like SNL project a clear political opinion, and the content often appeals to only one political group.

“I like [political bias] because it’s funny. It’s okay for shows to have a bias.” said senior Brittany Ngia.

The purpose of SNL is to provide entertainment, and as a company they are entitled to their own opinion. The show is not aiming to supply accurate, unbiased information; however, SNL does incorporate factual information.

“It’s important because it simplifies big issues,“ said junior Cooper McIntosh Nelson. “Many people do not watch the news or know about current problems; shows like SNL help spread awareness.

The ‘Weekend Update’ segment uses actual facts about current events.”

On a broader scope, the influence of television can be positive. Because the media has unparalleled authority, their messages can reach the population far and wide. Television shows enable ideas

Results from a poll of 100 LHS students who were asked if they think social media positively or negatively affects teenagers.

By Olivia Case

Answers: 1.D, 2.A, 3.C, 4.C, 5.A, 6.B, 7.D, 8.C, 9.A, 10.C, 11.B, 12.B

TV’s influence on opinions

are inaccurate, however must hold some truth amid the scripted drama.

“Grey’s Anatomy,” the famously dramatic medical show currently on its 13th season, follows the life of general surgeon Meredith Grey and her co-workers.

Underneath the dramatic events lay the daily routines of surgeons including surgeries, consultations and plenty of medical jargon. Although inaccurate, “Grey’s Anatomy” provides viewers with a look into the high pressure career of a surgeon.

“I love science in general and specifically biology, and the show [Grey’s Anatomy] really made me want to know more about the body and how to heal it,” said junior Jessica McIver. “The show does over-dramatize parts, but the drama is mainly focused on the relationships of the doctors, not the actual work itself.”

Other television shows which boast a career focused plot include NBC’s “Law & Order” franchise, ABC’s “Chicago” franchise, and FOX’s “House.” These television shows among others with a career focused story-line, are among some of the most popular.

The primary goal of television is to entertain the audience with an intriguing plot line, and in most cases the plot is embellished with drama amid some fact. With entertainment industry being a core of our society, it is likely for individuals to draw inspiration from what they watch.

“Television shows are following a storyline where elements of truth can be included. However, these shows are typically inaccurate, and not a factual source,” said Brent Prasnikar, Lakeridge counselor. “I would recommend for students with a career interests to talk to a professional in that field to gain a real world example of the career, rather than solely rely on the media’s display of the career.”

As technology continues to be a major part of current times, aspects of media become a primary source of inspiration.

Influences can come from anywhere, so as long as the drama in television shows is not viewed as fact, drawing inspiration from television can be a positive factor.

Both 46 students

Electronic Light

Television’s influence gets stronger daily to transcend geographical and cultural boundaries.

The limitations of like-minded people enforce this idea. When a group of people upholds a similar opinion, it can be difficult to gain an outside perspective.

Shows that project a political message can reach these groups -- for example, a mostly conservative town -- because of their position. While people may disagree with a show’s message, they can gain insight on other opinions. Exposure to multiple views can create a higher sense of understanding between groups.

It is understandable that certain groups would find SNL offensive. The show’s bias is typically expressed with generalized characters. That being said, bias is not limited to SNL, or even television. News sources are often criticized for aligning themselves with one political perspective. The logo of Fox News advertises “Fair & Balanced,” despite their recent criticisms.

It can seem that bias in television and news is a relatively new thing. In reality, bias has been present for years. The growing divide between political groups is only drawing attention to its existence.

Negative 33 students

7

8

SPORTS

February 20, 2017

Page design by Sara Nyland

Griffin flips into success LHS students As Pacers, we constantly hear about the successes of Editor-in-Chief popular sports that we have here at Lakeridge, such as soccer, basketball, football, lacrosse or track. However, there are plenty of other sports and athletes that deserve more recognition than they actually get.

Gabriela Griffin, for example, is a senior at LHS and highly skilled gymnast. However, most wouldn’t know just how talented she is or how hard she works for the impressive results she gets.

While some girls went through the typical toddler tumbling phase in their earlier years, Griffin has stuck with gymnastics since she was only four years old and began competitive gymnastics when she was eight, which comes to a total of 13 years with the sport.

Since then, she has worked her way up to being a level 10 gymnast at Westside Gymnastics.

Becoming a level 10 gymnast is no easy task and gymnastics is clearly a sport that requires intense dedication and focus--these facts become clear, after listening to a typical practice schedule for Griffin.

“I practice five times a week for four hours and we have competitions on the weekends January through May,” said Griffin.

“A typical practice is four hours long, five in the summer, and usually begins with a half hour warm up. After that we go into events, spending about 45 minutes on each event. Depending on the day we also have 30 minutes of conditioning at the end.”

After adding all that vigorous time at they gym up, Griffin spends about 20 hours at the gym each week during the Photo By: Oliva Case school year, plus competitions on the weekends that can Athlete of the Issue Gaberiella Griffin take up a good amount of the day. However, in the summer that number climbs to 25 hours per week. that can come with it.

Not only does the practice and competition schedule “I really like how difficult gymnastics is,” said Griffin. seem strenuous and hectic at times, the pressure is also cer“Mastering skills, dealing with fear, and having the fotainly on, considering gymnastics is primarily an individ- cus and motivation to come to practice everyday ready to ual sport. train makes gymnastics an incredibly tough yet rewarding “Gymnastics is definitely more of an individual sport sport.” in the sense that there are individual places during compeSpeaking of a rewarding sport, Griffin knew exactly how titions,” said Griffin. “However, there are team awards as it felt to have her incredibly hard work pay off when she well, and the team atmosphere is super important during won first place in bars at the Western Nationals Competipractices and competitions.” tion last year, which she described as her biggest accomSurely the practice and competition schedule as well as plishment in gymnastics so far. the pressure can take its toll on gymnasts who attend school While gymnastics has played a huge role throughout full time as well. However, Griffin doesn’t seem to mind, as Griffin’s young adult life, she is not sure if her gymnastics she clearly has a true passion for the sport and the rewards will continue after high school.

By Kenzie Hudler

Boys Basketball

Varsity boys basketball been doing well this season. The boys have achieved a 11-3 winning streak in the season so far.

“We are already having a pretty good year, it could be going better, but it’s going alright,” said senior Nate Ninteman on the varsity basketball team.

Wrestling

LHS wrestling is pushing through this winter with a score of 0-6. “Shoutout to Jared Bartunek because he’s had a lot of progression this year and is really tough in his matches,” said team captain junior Connor Riedl.

The TRL district meet took place last weekend. Results were not available as of press time.

Lakeridge High School is filled with talented athletes, Layout Editor many of which are getting contacted or scouted by colleges.

Generally schools will contact the athlete junior year, however on occasion, the athlete will be contacted sophomore year, even though it is frowned upon.

If contacted sophomore year, then it needs to go through the coach or parents of the student.

LHS junior Darius Guinn had been getting offers from many different D1 schools during his last spring/ summer AAU travel basketball season in 2016, which was at the end of his sophomore year.

“The recruitment process is crazy,” said Guinn. “All types of colleges look at you in all types of different ways.”

Guinn got injured in July, which is the most important month in terms of getting scholarship offers and he had already received offers from multiple D1 schools.

“I have a broken spine,” said Guinn. “Even when I got hurt, University of Montana still gave me a call and offered me a full ride scholarship.

I still have this AAU season starting in April to hopefully rack up more offers to see where the chips will fall on signing day next year.”

Junior Ashley Warmenhoven is another incredibly talented athlete at LHS, as she is considered one of our best volleyball players.

She is currently in contact with multiple D1 schools, including Dartmouth, Mercer, Lehigh, Bryant, Nicholls State and Hofstra.

“My goal has always been to play at a D1 school,” said Warmenhoven. “I will most likely play on the East coast because of my size, and those schools typically recruit that as I am under six feet.”

In addition, junior Mara Newman is a very fast and talented swimmer, and she competed in the Olympic Trials for the 200 backstroke on June 26, 2016.

“There are many schools talking to me,” said Newman. “But it’s still the beginning of the recruiting process so they are not allowed to personally talk or legitimately recruit me until July 1st.”

Newman has many offers, but her top choice would be to attend the University of Michigan.

“They have a really good swim team as well as what I want to study,” said Newman.

“Hopefully I can get a scholarship and have it pay for part of my education.”

Recruitment is a tough process.

By Jamie Hamann

Girls Basketball

SPORTS BRIEFS

Since their first victory against South Eugene back in December, the Lakeridge girls varsity basketball team has been on a losing streak.

“This season has been different than previous ones not so much by what our record is, but because of the atmosphere that is being created in our team,” said junior Sierra Zevenbergen. “We’re getting closer to one another while also pushing each other to be better players.”

Their next game will be held at home against Canby High School on Feb. 20, at 6 p.m.

Dance Team

Pacer dance team has been doing a great job. On Feb. 11, the girls scored 3rd place with a score of 82.85 at their first state competition this season. On Feb. 18 the girls had competitions in Sherwood, scores unavailable.

“Really enjoy the season [new dancers] and take all in, it goes by really, fast, faster than you expect,” said junior Jenna Milionis

Swimming Pacer swimmers are doing amaz-

ing this season with girls at 8-0 and boys at 6-0-1. This season there are about 20-25 new swimmers too.

“It’s a family, everyone gets along very well and enjoys everyone’s company in the pool,” said senior Everest Webster.

Swimming is off to state after both the boys and girls teams won TRL districts.

“It will be very competitive but exciting,” said junior Mara Newman.

Cheer Team

Ski Team

So far this season, the LHS boys ski team has won three races and lost one. “We’re looking really strong and are shooting for that state title.

Our guys team has been really hot lately, winning every race since the first one,” junior Alex Johnson said.

get recruited

By Kate Kupper and Garrett Bolan

So far this season, the Lakeridge Cheerleading team has gotten fourth at L.O. and Clackamas, and second at David Douglas. “I think we are doing pretty well and hopefully we will peak at state,” said junior Jessica McIver. The team got 7th overall at the State Championships on Feb. 11.

Staff Reporters

Photo By: Liam Thropp

Maddie Grimes attempts free throw

Page design by Sara Nyland

SPORTS

February 20, 2017

9

Boys basketball owns the court Blazers looking The LHS boys varsity basketball team is off to a good Staff Reporter start in the season. With a league record of 11-2 the boys have impressed many so far..

The team was expected to do well this season and they are proving themselves to everyone by beating considerably good teams such as Sherwood, Tualatin and Lake Oswego.

“So far we’re doing good,” said LHS senior Jack Holum.

The team is hoping to do better than they have in the past and everyone is working hard toward their goal of making it to the play offs.

“I’m excited for making it farther in the playoffs than we have in the past,” said Holum. “We have a really good team chemistry.”

Many of the players can agree that their main goal for this season has been to improve their performance both individually and as a team in comparison to last year. So far their results have been very successful.

“It takes focus and dedication from everybody’s part to build over the summer and become a better team,” said LHS junior Immanuel Allen.

The team put in a lot of their time and energy over the summer in order to meet their goals for the season.

“My expectations for the rest of this year is just to be as successful as possible in every single game we play,” said Allen.

The team is having a good run so far in their season and they hope to have more fellow Pacers to come out and cheer them on.

“I’m excited for people in our school to start realizing that we’re pretty good,” said senior Mitch Rose.

The boys’ next game is on Tuesday, Feb. 21 at 4:15 p.m. against Canby and they are hoping for a big crowd.

“We usually play better when we have a big crowd and they’re engaged,” said Rose. The boys are really hoping for their fellow pacers to come out and support them.

The team is looking to improve from their losses and learn from mistakes that were made. Going into the playoffs, they want to be as prepared as they can in order to get the results they deserve and have been working toward all season.

All the hard work from the team shows they’re ready to go on to the playoffs and want their fans to be by their sides Photo by Bailey Hinkle to cheer them on to victory.

Senior Ian Gaekwad shoots against LO in the civil war game.

By Taylor Morelli

Wrestling team grows with new athletes

By Taylor Morrelli

LHS boys wrestling team is working especially hard this season to improve as a team. They have gained many new young athletes who are looking to gain more experience in the sport. Returning players are expecting a large turnout, so more the better.

“We got a lot of new inexperienced people on the team this year but we need them in order to get better,” said sophomore Jared Bartunek.

The team is always accepting new people and encouraging them to join the team.

“Wrestling is mainly about fighting hard and overcoming pain,” said junior Sims Vincent. “The team is closely connected like a family and although you compete individually the team is always there to support you.”

The team has practice everyday except for weekends. They typically have one meet during the week and one on the weekend that lasts all day.

Practices are typically filled with a lot of Staff Reporter

weight lifting and drills that help the team improve. Not everyone on the team is at the same exact skill level, but everybody works individually in order to come together and get the results they want. Wrestling may not be a team sport, but all of these talented athletes can come together to improve as an overall program.

In previous years the team was much smaller. This year there are much more people on the team and there is much more money going into the program.

“The team has already gotten new mats for home duals, new uniforms and new warmup outfits.The team is really trying to encourage people to join next year, even girls! They are very open and accepting of everyone no matter their experience or skill set,” said Vincent. The team is working hard as their season comes to an end and are working towards allowing the program to grow even more.

Those who are on the wrestling team really enjoy what they do and are hoping for the program to grow in the future.

UPCOMING GAMES:

-2/24-25: OSAA State Champships, Memorial Coliseum ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT: -Quinn

Brink placed 5th at state in 2016

Successful snowboarding season slides to a stop The Lake Oswego community Staff Reporter snowboard team has been doing well this season. Snowboarding is an individual sport and each person aims for self improvement and Pacers have been improving a lot these past few weeks. At their last competition many individuals from LHS got personal best times in the three main snowboarding events: slopestyle, border-cross and half-pipe.

Many members of snowboard team really enjoy the relaxed but fun aspect of practice, combined with the thrillingly intense competitions.

“The best part about snowboarding is leading a squad of nine down the hill,” said LHS sophomore Ronin Skidmore. Skidmore has been part of the team for the past two years and he is looking forward to growing within the program.

Skidmore’s dad David Skidmore organizes the LHS team and helps members to be able to do what they love by snowboarding in the winter. Coach Skidmore and Coach Sam Landeaux also help the team raise funds. For example,this year the team went door to door selling coupon cards.

By Ava Euker

Fundraisers really help cover the high expenses of being a part of the snowboard team. The fees to join the team aren’t cheap- one must buy a season pass at meadows, pay a few hundreds dollars to help cover the bus and team equipment and must have a board and helmet in order to compete.

Snowboard team can be for anyone, from first timers to life long athletes. Although the team cannot add members this far into the season, the team wants to grow in the future.

“I liked being a part of the team freshman year because I got to hang out with friends while shredding on the slopes,” said junior Aaron Park.

The LO community school has a snowboard team for Lakeridge and for Lake Oswego, each with about 15 members. Although Lakeridge and LO both have their own teams and coaches, they ride a bus together to the Meadows every Thursday to practice and have opportunities to get to know each other as both friends and competitors.

Surrounded by mountains, us Portlanders have a great chance to enjoy snow sports like snowboarding in the winter. Members of the LHS snowboard team love what they do and are planning to strengthen the program in the future.

TRL Snowboarding Stats: -LHS boys team V1 scored 449 and got 7th place in the slopestyle competition -Team V2 scored 310 and got 11th place

for playoff berth

By Erik Svoboda

Opinion Editor After a disappointing December in which the Blazers lost 11of 15 games, they have stepped up their game in the new year, with a January win-loss record of 8-7.

CJ McCollum and Damian Lillard have continued to shoulder the scoring load, Mason Plumlee has excelled as a playmaker, and despite their slump, the Blazers are still strong playoff contenders in the Western Conference.

Toward the UPCOMING GAMES: end of Decem- 2/23: Orlando Magic ber, Damian Lillard suf- 2/26: Toronto Rapfered an an- tors kle injury that sidelined him 2/28: Detroit Pisfor five games, tons until January 3/2: Oklahoma City fifth. It would be a major un- Thunder derstatement 3/4: Brooklyn Nets to say that M c C o l l u m 3/6: Minnesota Timcarried the berwolves team during that span.With Lillard out, over those five games McCollum torched opponents for 31.2 points, 4.6 assists and 1.2 steals per game on 49 percent shooting (38 percent from three-point range), all of which are significant increases from his season averages. The team won two of those five games, with three close losses against some of the best teams in the league, the Toronto Raptors, San Antonio Spurs and Golden State Warriors.

According to Bleacher Report, McCollum is statistically the best pure shooter in the entire NBA. The Blazers’ offensive style under head coach Terry Stotts is very dependent on the center’s playmaking ability, and Plumlee has thrived in that role. Since the start of December, Plumlee has been a great source of all-around offense, averaging 11.9 points and 3.7 assists per game as well as 8.5 rebounds. He also has 10 double-doubles during that span.

The Blazers have been involved in trade rumors for a strong center (Tyson Chandler and Nikola Vucevic are two possible targets), but this would cause a major drop in Plumlee’s production and disrupt the offense significantly.

Evan Turner also had a strong January, constantly improving and solidifying his skills.. His defense and mid-range shooting has been stellar, and Stotts has been involving him in the offense much more, both as a scorer and a playmaker.

Stotts seems to have great confidence in Turner’s overall defense, since he often matches Turner up against some of the league’s best playmakers and scorers.

Turner was ostracized at the beginning of the season for his atrocious -162 point differential through November, but has since improved dramatically (+38 in January) and recently moved to the starting lineup.

The Blazers are currently ninth place in the Western Conference with an overall record of 21-28. They are only 1 ½ games behind the Denver Nuggets for the eighth and final playoff spot, but the Nuggets are on the rise with the emergence of star young center Nikola Jokic.

If Jokic continues his historic play, it will be extremely difficult for the Blazers to make the postseason, and they will have to make significant trades in order to do so. Their priority should be inside defense, as they are one of the worst teams in the league in this category.

Since Plumlee is such an important part of their offense, they need a defensive-minded power forward who is strong and tall. Philadelphia’s Nerlens Noel, who has openly voiced his unhappiness with his current team, fits this role. The 6’11”, 230lb big man is widely considered to be one of the best interior defenders in the league and can play both the power forward and center spots.

10

Feature

February 17, 2017

Page design by Katie Mahorney

Stephanie Blizzard loves LHS Cerebral palsy is a chronic condition that seStaff Reporter verely alters the “normal” lifestyle many of us take for granted. Yet this condition doesn’t define someone, and it certainly doesn’t stifle one’s character. Stephanie Blizzard, a former LHS student, doesn’t let cerebral palsy diminish the joy she finds in her unique lifestyle.

Stephanie deals with a severe case of cerebral palsy, which cripples her ability to walk, talk, eat or breathe on her own. Yet, with the support of her family, friends, caretakers and nurses, Stephanie is able to enjoy many aspects of life despite her high needs condition.

Stephanie was born with cerebral palsy and since birth her family and doctors have been working to advance her abilities beyond what once seemed possible.

A throat tube called a trach allows Stephanie to breathe regularly and to tackle the hardship of being non-mobile caretakers push Stephanie in a wheelchair. Yet this is no ordinary chair, on each side of Stephanie’s head is a probe, which registers movement: right means yes, left means no.

In this way Stephanie can lean her head and respond to questions.

Stephanie can also tilt her head forward or push a button to play recorded lines of her saying “hello” or “how are you doing?” to further communicate.

Nurses and caretakers help Stephanie 24/7 so that she can come to school and function at home while her parents work full time.

A few staff members at LHS, including Special educational assistants Sue Reyes, Missy Farris, Pamela Foster and Christine Rulli, help to push Steph-

By Ava Eucker

“Stephanie made many great memories during her time at Lakeridge.”

-Pamela Foster

anie’s wheel chair and to attend classes with her.

Currently Stephanie attends band and choir classes, as she loves to observe Pacer talent. Stephanie also enjoys art class, and with the helping hand of a caretaker, Stephanie is able to paint and draw many beautiful pieces.

Along with her primary three caretakers, Stephanie also has an occupational therapist who helps create games for her. Jane, her occupational therapist, devises systems to ease Stephanie’s transitions getting in and out of her chair; this therapist also recorded the phrases Stephanie uses to talk with her peers.

A physical therapist also occasionally aids Stephanie by leading her in stretching and checking her equipment, such as her chair and bed, to accommodate them to her needs.

Stephanie’s family is also extremely supportive. Her parents work full time, and her older sister Nicole now plays basketball in college, but when they are all together they love spending time with Stephanie.

One of Stephanie’s favorite things to do is to go boating on the Oswego Lake. The Blizzard’s own a pontoon boat with a specialized ramp to accommodate rolling Stephanie’s wheelchair on board.

The Blizzard’s home has an elevator, which helps Stephanie to wheel around, and her loyal dog Emma rides the elevator as well due to her love for spending time with Stephanie.

Stephanie went to Bryant elementary, Lakeridge Junior High, and she graduated from Lakeridge in 2014.

“Stephanie made many great memories during her time at Lakeridge” said Foster, “She enjoyed taking challenging classes including Spanish 3 and physics, spending time with friends, and going to school dances.”

Stephanie was voted into prom court her senior year, and she was asked to the dance by her good childhood friend. Bringing up such fond memories brings a smile to her face.

Stephanie will turn 21 in the spring, which means her time working with Lakeridge staff is nearing an end.

Next year, Stephanie may return to LHS with an off-campus caretaker to continue volunteering by delivering mail and performing the duties of a hall monitor.

Stephanie values her time at LHS because students, teachers and staff are always kind and want the best for

her.

Stephanie Blizzard is a Pacer through and through.

She battles the difficulties of having cerebral palsy while continuing to learn in the educational environment LHS provides.

Above all, Stephanie gives back to the Lake Oswego community- her heart is so full, she doesn’t need words to express her love for Lakeridge and for the gratitude she has for all of those who share her smile and make life worth living.

In Memory of Michael Kraemer

Staff and students enjoy thrift shopping M a n y p e o p l e Staff Reporter find shopping an exhausting experience. The mall is filled with brand-new clothing and it’s hard to resist the temptation, even when it’s overpriced, mass-produced and low-quality. However, there is another way.

Thrift shopping has become a popular way to find clothing that would be hard to find in other stores, and plenty of LHS students are turning to the cheaper opportunities that thrift stores offer. Second-hand stores often sell high-end retail clothing for reasonable prices, and there are hidden gems everywhere.

LHS English teacher Kate Thomason is known as the queen of thrift shopping amongst her friends, because she almost exclusively gets her clothes from places such as Goodwill.

“I typically hit the bins twice a month,” Thomason said.

“The bins” is a thrift shopper’s name for the locations of Goodwill where everything that’s just been donated is put out on giant carts and is up for grabs.

“You have to mentally prepare,” Thomason said. “It’s intense. You can’t go in looking for something, it usually finds you.”

One of her favorite “finds” has been designer jeans. Thomason claims she has had great luck with finding jeans in her size,

Photo by Liam Thropp

Stephanie enjoys her time in the Lakeridge halls.

By Riley Granger

Photo by Liam Thropp

Teacher Kate Thomason’s clothes above are worth $560 but she only paid $5-10. many of which are upwards of $200 in retail stores.However, thrift shopping is certainly not always a sure win. It takes time to figure out the best stores for your personal style.

“I shop at Value Village, because it’s super cheap and I always find something cool,” said LHS senior Sidney Amos.

Value Village is a much more conventional experience than the Goodwill bins. Amos wears something from Value Village almost every day, and she shops there almost every week.

Thrift shopping is also a huge money-saver. Thomason loves it because it allows her to use her money on experiences she finds more valuable.

“I love traveling, and I save money for that by buying second-hand clothes,” Thomason said. “I can spend my money elsewhere. Besides, I like the hunt. There’s something fun about finding something unexpected.”

Michael Christopher Kraemer, 18, died Friday, Feb. 10 in his home from an unexpected cardiac event from complications with pneumonia. Michael is survived by his mother, Rachel Kraemer, his older brother, Andrew, his grandmother Beverly McLaren, and many aunts, uncles, and cousins. His father, Chris Kraemer, passed away in December.

Michael was born August 7, 1998 in Tualatin, Oregon. Michael attended Lakeridge for two years after transferring from McMinnville High School.

Michael was an avid lover of music and drama. He was a bass for the A Capella choir. Michael performed at the district solo festival last winter.

Michael was also involved in the 2016 winter play “Much Ado About Nothing,” where he played Friar Francis. This year, Michael was enrolled in the Lakeridge Musical Theatre Workshop.

Michael also enjoyed reading plays aloud in his English class where his openness and big personality encouraged others to be themselves and to participate in class discussions.

Those who knew Michael say he was quiet, but remember his infectious laugh and fearless attitude.

He was close to his large family and was known to be protective of his mother. Michael’s mother shared that although Michael often kept

to himself, he returned home from school each day to enthusiastically share all the wonderful things he enjoyed about our Pacer family.

His family is very appreciative for the many ways LHS students and staff have honored him, including the chalk wall outside, posters hung up in the commons and kind letters that are friendly reminders of Michael’s spirit.

A wake for Michael will be Monday, Feb. 27 at Young’s Funeral Home from 5-9 p.m., followed by an open service on Tuesday, Feb. 28 at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints across the street from LHS at 5:30 p.m. Michael’s friends, family, and fellow Pacers are invited to celebrate Michael’s life.

Donations can be made to youcaring.com/Pacers4Michael to help his family -- every bit helps.

Michael brought joy to many people, his vibrance and genuine spirit will never be forgotten.

Page design by Sophie Beriault

ENTERTAINMENT

February 20, 2017

11

Star Wars gets a new hero These past years Staff Reporter have been a time of anticipation for Star Wars fans, and a new trilogy isn’t all we’ve received from the long-standing franchise.

“Rogue One: A Star Wars Story” sought to add a little backstory to the famed original trilogy, but how was it received?

Math teacher Teresa Lehto gave her thoughts on the new film.

“I would say I was pretty excited about it throughout,” said Lehto when asked if her opinion changed as the movie progressed.

She went on to say that it was very reminiscent of the original trilogy.

Lehto said that “Rogue One” reminded her a lot of “Return of the Jedi”, and she enjoyed that there were cameos of Empire machinery from the original movies.

She liked that it gave a little backstory to some of the events from the original movies.

The movie shows a bit of history behind the Death Star in “A New Hope,” so people get a little more explanation about its history and the character involved with it.

Lehto thought that she would like to see more movies on the expanded universe, if they have more story to tell.

Lheto was asked if seeing “Rogue One” made her feel differently about the next installment in the new trilogy, “The Last Jedi”.

“I would say yes,” said Lheto. She added that she’s looking forward to the next movie even more than she was before.

Star Wars fan and LHS senior Isaac Petersen enjoyed the movie as well.

“I thought it was filmed very well,”said Petersen, but he mentioned that he already knew how it ended.

“The acting was better,” he said, comparing Rogue One to how he felt about the prequel movies. He liked that the characters weren’t really Jedi.

Like Lehto, he was asked if this movie changed his feelings about the next one.

“No. I’m still excited,” said Petersen. He added that seeing “Rogue One” made him want to see the next movie even more.

He said he would like to see more films made about the Star Wars expanded universe.

“Can’t stress that enough… I love all Star Wars,” said Petersen about more expanded universe movies.

By Margaret Zackery few

photo by Yearbook Staff

A large group of estatic Lakeridge students dancing the night away at this years Morp on Febuary 4, 2017

Dancing in the ‘90s This year’s Morp was moved around multiple times but was Staff Reporter finally scheduled for Feb. 4 and it seemed as if students still had a great time regardless of all the changes.

After originally being rescheduled to Sunday, Jan. 15, there was another snow storm that caused it to be moved again. Students have become noticeably annoyed by all these changes due to the fact that plans keep on getting rearranged and it is now adding to the stress of finals.

The dance for Morp this year took place at The Colony event space in Portland from 8-11P.M. Tickets costed $30 in advance and $35 at the door which required students to plan ahead.

There was a DJ and a separate picture booth for students to take photos of them and their friends fitting the theme of “Throwin’ it Back to The ‘90s’” Students had long awaited the dance due to the difficult weather, but as it finally arrived excitement and joy filled with everyone. Senior, Kaela Zawideh was upset with the weather and the challenges it brought, but as the dance finally came she had a great night.

“The schedule changes were a pain, but overall Morp was great and I had an awesome time with my date Jordan, I wouldn’t trade the night .” said Zawideh.

For many seniors, this was their last Morp and they tried their best to make it the most memorable one thus far.

Not only was this an anticipated dance for the seniors, but the underclassmen seemed very enthusiastic about it as well.

Sophomore Ginger Harn had been waiting for the past three months to have the dance.

“Besides a bit of rescheduling it hadn’t been too inconvenient, I just felt really bad for all the kids with sports commitments on the fourth that couldn’t make it any-

By Jordan Nelson

more.” said Harn.

Due to previous plans on Feb. 4, some students were unable to attend which caused conflict in some groups but most everyone was able to figure it out and have a good night.

Over the years, there tends to be the most drama in the Junior Class due to jealousy, exclusion, and last second planning and changes.

The rescheduling made all this drama even more hectic and a lot of groups had to fully change their plans.

Patrick Kanapeaux, junior, certainly experienced a lot of drama and last second changes with his morp experience.

With that being said, when everything was figured out it turned out to be a great time and everyone ended up having fun.

“Morp was really drawn out this year so I didn’t think it would be as fun as the past years. When it finally came I had a ton of fun so I guess I was wrong,” said Kanapeaux.

Regardless of the drama in most every class; especially the juniors, it seemed as if every group was still able to have fun.

Morp this year was certainly unforgettable for many reasons, but you can bet that almost everyone will say that they remembered it because they had a great time.

Senior Dylan Nelson was glad he was able to cap one of his last high school formal dances off ever with a great group of friends and a nearly unforgettable night.

“Having fun with my friends on the bus was the most important thing to me, if I could go back and change anything I wouldn’t because it was that good of a night for me,” said Nelson.

A good night is really all that you can ask for out of formal dances and that was what Morp had to offer for a lot of students this year at LHS.

“I thought it was filmed very well.”

-Isaac Petersen

The one of a kind, strange talents of Lakeridge students

From hyperflexibility to mental math, these people were born with amazing abilities On average, the DNA

By Garrett Bolen sequence of each human

being is 99.5 percent similar to any other human on Earth, yet we remain unique and diverse.

From just that, half a percent of difference becomes a stunning amount of diversity among humans, leaving many with intriguing and often remarkable talents.

Sure enough, these talents are apparent all throughout LHS. Junior Beeta Maleki is one of the fortunate enough to inherit one of these talents.

Though flexibility can be improved from person to person, not everyone can contort their body in ways some may have thought impossible.

However, for Maleki, it comes almost naturally. As she is a rhythmic gymnast, extreme flexibility is a major aspect of her career in the sport.

Though she was born with hyperflexibility, she will put anywhere from 20 to 25+ hours per week practicStaff Reporter

ing her flexibility and ballet.

Maleki recalls one exercise where the class would sit in what is known as an oversplit- a split extending further than 180 degrees- for up to a half an hour.

Though the sport doesn’t come without pain, Maleki recounts her coach telling her class that what she felt was “a good type of pain.”

“I love having something to be so dedicated to,” Maleki said. “It feels great to go to the gym for so many hours at a time and I can even sense the improvement when I give it my all.”

LHS students are not the only ones with unique talents, though. Physics teacher Matthew Price has an insane ability to perform calculations in his head with relative ease.

Often times during class he will be running through a problem with the class and have the answers up before the students could even turn their calculators on.

In actuality, it isn’t as complicated as people may think.

“No one is a human calculator,” said Price. “A

person’s ability to do mental math all boils down to how well they can keep everything organized in their head.”

Often times he will round numbers so they are easier to work with, even if it means being off by a little here and there.

Breaking numbers up into simpler parts is another trick that he uses to solve problems accurately and efficiently.

According to Price, part of his mental math ability is attributed to the methods of solving problems he used in school.

As calculators could not perform as many advanced calculations while he was in school, he would often be forced to break the problem down step by step.

While each of these individuals have a natural talent in their areas of expertise, they both put in a considerable amount of dedication to refine them to be even better.

Talents on their own can be incredible, but refined talents can truly yield great potential.

12

ENTERTAINMENT

February 20, 2017

Page design by Kate Kupper

Monday Feb. 20 Binge watch a new show on Netflix X

Tuesday Feb. 21 Rock Musical the Brunish Theater $$$

Wednesday Feb. 22 Visit the Portland Rose Garden to celebrate the 100th anniversary X

Thursday Feb. 23 Swan Lake showing at the Keller Auditorium $$$

Friday Feb. 24 Jazz Festival at multiple venues $$

Saturday Feb. 25 Behind the scenes tour of the Pittock Mansion in Portland $$$

Sunday Feb. 26 Scavenger Hunt at Pioneer Square with Urban Adventure Quest $$

Feb. 27 Go for a walk in nearby park with friends X

Feb. 28 Visit the Oregon Zoo in Portland $$

Mar. 1 Go skating at Oaks Amusement Park $$

Mar. 2 Explore the Women’s Film Festival at the Hollywood Theatre $$

Mar. 3 Acrobatic Cirque Show at the Network Theatre $$

Mar. 4 Antique and Collectibles show at the Portland Expo Center $$$

Mar. 5 Visit the Art Walk in Southeast Portland X

Price Key: X = 0-5 $ = 5-10 $$ = 11-15 $$$ = 16-20 $$$$ = 21+

Fun to be had as February ends Keep your mind sane during standardized testing time at LHS by going out and doing things to clear your head (and not make it explode from stress)

Immediately following winter break and Staff Reporter a plethora of holidays, LHS students got nearly a whole week off to enjoy a winter wonderland. Now, after finishing a well-deserved break, students are faced with prospect of rapidly approaching standardized tests, limited days off (until Spring Break, that is!) and the start of a new semester.

By Lauren Monk

In light of all of these potentially stressful events, it’s imperative to stay positive throughout the school day – especially when stress seems inevitable. But how can one beat the after-break slog? Every person has their own methods, but it never hurts to try new techniques, and there are a plethora of methods out there.

Each technique had its own merits but sometimes it’s best to look to the professionals.

Mental Health America, an organization committed to

helping boost people’s mental health, suggests that people write about a positive future, avoid negative thinking, and get lots of sleep. They also encourage “connecting with others” and getting physically active -- meaning that now more than ever is a perfect time to follow up on all of those gym-related New Year’s resolutions!

In the end, no matter what positivity method one chooses to take, don’t forget that opting for positivity in the first place is half the battle!

Review of Showtime’s Dexter Persisting to be quality since 2006

By Erik Svoboda Opinion Editor

Nintendo Switch is pricier than anticipated Nintendo has recently publiEntertainment Editor cized the meaty details of it newest console The Nintendo Switch, and it doesn’t look good for those who want their money’s worth.

The Switch’s name derives from its unique functionality of switching back and forth between TV and portable game modes. The switch will be officially up for grabs March 3 this year. It’s priced at $300.

This all seems well and good, especially since the price of the console is considerably less expensive than the other newer generation consoles at initial release.

However, when the price of its games at release and attachable items are taken into account, the Switch proves to be far too expensive for what it boasts.

Gamers will spend $300 for the Switch at release, but chances are they’ll have to spend at least $40 for in order to play at least one game at release.

That game is “The Binding Of Isaac: Rebirth,” which is a revitalized version of a six year-old indie game, which is normally priced at $15 on PC. Overall the only game anyone will really be able to play and purchase will be one worth while Zelda game, two overpriced indie games, a few over-

By Sims

priced downgrades of existing triple A games and four overpriced releases of gimmicky games like “1 2 Switch.”

And if things don’t get all that much better with only or two new games releasing each season.

“Legend of Zelda: Breath Of The Wilds” seems like the only must buy to really being releasing for the Switch. While the game looks amazing, it can be worth buying a whole new console to play it.

The Switch gets even more expensive though, with promised attachment items available at launch.

One is a new version of the Switch Dock, which can allow players to play on multiple TV’s in their house.

A dock is priced at $90, but the device itself doesn’t have any advanced technology inside it.

In addition, gamers who may want to have a more traditional game experience without the uncomfortable feeling of the JoyCon controllers will have to spend $70 for one Pro Controller.

In order to play online with other players, Nintendo is asking for a monthly to yearly fee. While the undecided price is promised to be cheaper than other consoles, Nintendo’s execution of online play has a reputation for being shady at best.

For the Switch to truly to be enjoyed at it’s full potential, it’s overall price ends up being closer to around $500, which when looking at the fun to be had on the Switch seems far too pricey.

The Showtime series “Dexter” ended a few years ago in 2013 after eight seasons, but when I stumbled upon it on Netflix and read the tag line, I couldn’t resist. The prospect of diving into the mind of a psychopath living a double-life was too good to pass up. I clicked play, and after the first 10 minutes I was hooked.

The story centers around Dexter Morgan (Michael C. Hall), a forensics analyst for the Miami Metro Police Department. He specializes in blood analysis, was adopted at a young age by the now-deceased Harry Morgan (James Remar) and works alongside Harry’s daughter Debra (Jennifer Carpenter), who he treats like a sister and has a very close friendship with.

While Dexter appears to be normal at the beginning, we quickly learn more about his sinister alter ego, as a serial killer.

However, there’s a key difference that separates him from other murderers, though. Dexter follows a strict code to determine his victims; he only targets heinous criminals, usually those who escaped the hands of the law. Harry taught him this code ever since he noticed Dexter’s psychopathic tendencies, and because of this Dexter sees him as a role model for the majority of the series. His job at Miami Metro helps him track down his victims quite easily, but must take precautions to hide this from Debra and his coworkers.

At first, Dexter is a psychopath; he is devoid of all emotion and has a constant urge to kill. But oddly enough, he also longs to have the emotions we have-- to be “human”.

And this is what makes the show really interesting. Throughout each season Dexter progresses in his journey toward becoming more human-like. By developing stronger relationships with other characters (especially Debra) and following his code, he gradually becomes more and more emotional, which certainly has its benefits, but also causes many problems when he tries to balance his emotional relationships with his innate desire to kill.

One of Dexter’s overall goals is to recall the repressed memories of his childhood and find the missing pieces, somewhat like a puzzle. With every season, there is a new killer that he must track down, each one with a back story and information that adds a piece to his puzzle. But the ironic part is that Dexter sometimes must hinder the police investigations in order to find and kill them himself, to satisfy his urge to kill.

Another prominent subplot is how the spirit of Harry stays with Dexter and gives him advice during the series. Dexter’s evolution as a person becomes evident in that he begins to contend with his advice in the last few seasons, and learn to make his own decisions according to his moral compass, something that true psychopaths lack.

“Dexter” should be on the bucket list of anyone interested in a show with chilling story lines, in-depth character development, great acting and intense action.