Volume 106, Issue 4 by The Viking Vanguard

an guard

A limited forum for student expression // Volume 106 // Issue Four // 105 7th St. SW Puyallup, Wash, 98371 // Dec. 15, 2017

WISHING TRADITION CONTINUES B Y

H A L E Y K E I Z U R C H I E F

s we close out the week leading up to winter break, holiday cheer fills the hallways and Santa’s elves, in the form of leadership kids, race doorto-door, delivering food, treats and other fun gifts. This event is known as Winter Wishes and is happening for its ninth year. Senior Brooklyn Garrett is one of the many leadership students working to organize this annual school event. “Winter Wishes was started about nine years ago to help feed families who cannot provide or afford to feed themselves during the holidays. It has branched off into this big school event, where we grant as many wishes as we can. Every student writes a wish and we try to grant as many of those as we can, based solely on donations or money we raise through fundraisers at businesses,” Garrett said. Many, many hours go into preparing for this day. During Thanksgiving break, the leadership team contacts and visits all the businesses, Garrett said. “[The leadership team] all splits off into groups [and we do different things]. For example, Emma Stockslager is in charge of basically the entire thing. She has typed out all the wishes and categorized them, then checks them with the other groups to see where we are all at,” Garrett said. “My group was in charge of talking to businesses to see if we could set up in them to do fundraisers. So, we sat at Anthem last Saturday, we sat at Thr3e on Monday and we are going to Anthem again. We are also doing a pass the hat at the game tonight [Nov. 30]. All of us had to contact at least two to three businesses and see if they would be willing to donate.” Senior Emma Stockslager is in charge of keeping track of each of the contacted businesses and making sure the team follows up with them if they want to donate, she says. “The main thing [we do] is reaching out to businesses to get donations and fundraising for money so we

can actually get the things that the students wished for. Then we have the students wish for all their wishes. Then we organize them based on their [category] so we have the food and everything. From there, we begin to buy things and start Winter Wishes,” Stockslager said. The leadership team waits until they have raised most of their money before they begin to purchase items. Their goal this year was to raise $10,000, and at the time of this interview, they had raised around $4,000, according to Garrett. Additionally, all the families that need dinner and supplies have been adopted.

“Last year we granted 300 wishes, along with feeding about 30 plus families. You have to adopt a family to provide for [so, clubs and families adopt them and commit to purchasing the items they need] and all families have been adopted and we are working on granting the wishes,” Garrett said. Once all the fundraising is done, the shopping begins, as Stockslager mentioned. However, majority of the preparation begins the last week before break and the night before, says Garrett. “We will start to shop with the money, with [Leadership adviser] Jamie Mooring and start getting the stuff in order.

To continue reading this story, visit vikingvanguard.com G R A C I E L U C A S | V A N G U A R D

[Then we will] start grouping it by which class period we can deliver it in and see, for example all the groups that would fit in with first period,” Garrett said. “We are currently finalizing some of our bigger wishes, like pets, laptops and working on contacting shelters. Most of it comes down to Thursday night and Friday morning. We will just be making sure we have it all and it is grouped out well-enough.” Stockslager has been involved in Winter Wishes for three years now. She enjoys the ability to make an impact on the community through this event. “The feeling every year of giving [is wonderful] because we do a lot of stuff for people that actually need things, like dinners and warm clothes, so just the feeling of doing something that really benefits someone during the holiday season, it is really nice, a good feeling.” Stockslager highlights how this event can be a light in many students’ lives during this time of year. “Our main thing is bringing back that holiday spirit, that can sometimes be lost in students’ lives because a lot of things happen during the holiday season. Life can be rough and so it is just about bringing a good thing and helping somebody who is going through something and make their holiday season better,” Stockslager said. Senior Erin Simons received a letterman’s jacket last year for Winter Wishes, one of the 300 gifts handed out. “I felt really overjoyed and almost honored that they chose my gift to give to me. I feel like it gave me a new perspective on giving back during the holidays, you can always brighten someone’s day by helping them out. No matter how big or small the gift or gesture,” Simons said. She is grateful for how the event brings the community together and teaches students the importance of giving. “Winter Wishes teaches students the power of kindness and giving back in a positive way. Spreading love during the holidays is so important and this event really does just that,” Simons said.

Check It Out

Table of Contents

News / Opinion / Focus / Features

‘Person of the Year’ Named // Page 5 Fake Trees V. Real Trees // Page 7 Get Involved in Your Community // Page 10 Yanasak Passes Away // Page 11 Holiday Drinks Critiqued // Page 14 Lawson Tells About Life // Page 16

A&E / Sports

an guard The Viking

E D I T O R -I N -C H I E F.......................................H A L E Y K E I Z U R M A N AG I N G E D I T O R ....................E M I LY VA N B E RG E Y K N E W S E D I T O R ..................................................M E G A N LY N N F E AT U R E S E D I T O R .......................NATA L I E E YC H A N E R O P -E D /A &E E D I T O R ..................................R AQ U E L A M AT O S P O R T S E D I T O R ................................M C K E N NA Z AC H E R M U LT I M E D I A E D I T O R ......................H A N NA H PA L M E R A D V E R T I S I N G M A N AG E R ........................J O R Y D U VA L L C I R C U L AT I O N M A N AG E R .........M E G A N N K I N S E L L A S TA F F............................................................M I C H A E L C U S T E R ..................................................................................R I L E Y D O M A N ...............................................................................A N D R E W F LU R Y .....................................................................................TAY L O R F R E Y ...........................................................................JA I M E G O L D B E RG ..................................................................................A L E X I S H O L M E ..............................................................................M E G A N JA M O R A ................................................................................N O B I J O H N S O N ..................................................................................G R AC I E LU C A S .....................................................................................K AT E LYC H I K .................................................................................K AY L A M O R R I S .........................................................................................A NA M Y E R S ..........................................................................JA S M I N E N I C H O L S .........................................M AC K E N Z I E N O M A KC H T E I N S K Y ....................................................................A N G E L I NA R I C H A R D .......................................................................M A RC U S W I N D H A M ....................................................................................JAC O B W YAT T A D V I S E R ................................................SA N D R A C OY E R , M J E E D I T O R I A L P O L I C Y:

The Viking Vanguard operates as a limited forum. The Viking Vanguard’s duty is to expand student perspectives, maintain community relations and act as a student publication advocating voice. Besides providing an opportunity for the exchange of viewpoints, The Viking Vanguard serves as an academic tool by which students can voice opinions as well as highlight issues facing today’s students. L E T T E R P O L I C Y:

The Viking Vanguard accepts unsolicited copy from businesses. Only signed and dated letters with addresses and phone numbers from community members or grade level from students will be accepted. Letters must be limited to 350 words and will be published as space is available. The staff reserves the right to edit any letter without changing its content. All letters are the sole opinion of the writer and do not necessarily represent the opinion of The Viking Vanguard staff. Letters to the Editor may be submitted by E-Mailing them to thevikingvanguard@gmail.com or mailing them to The Viking Vanguard c/o Puyallup High School.

STAFF ENCOURAGES VOLUNTEERING

Through volunteering, students at our school t is that time of year, when we hurry out to have learned a lot about what it means to be a shop on Black Friday and look forward to leader and a helper. They have gathered skills to what generous gifts lie under our Christmas help them not only have a more positive high school trees. However, it is important to remember that experience but be more prepared for the rest of their not everyone in the community shares these same lives. holiday joys. The Puyallup School District also now offers This December, The Viking Vanguard wanted to a varsity letter in community service. By getting emphasize community involvement and encourage involved in the community now, you can begin volunteering and giving back. working towards earning Throughout this month, those 150 hours. we have continued the This year, PHS will idea of Giving Tuesday by be putting on the ninthTweeting a new place to WE HOPE THAT EVERY STUDENT annual Winter Wishes. We volunteer each day. There CONSIDERS PERFORMING AN recognize the leadership are a plethora of local ACT OF KINDNESS THIS MONTH. team’s hard work and organizations that are in time that they put into need of volunteers, during OU R V I E W brightening our students’ the holiday season and all holidays. year. These vary from inWe hope that every school groups, community student considers performing an act of kindness organizations or national associations. This month’s focus highlights a handful of specific this month. In this issue, you will get a behind-thescenes look at what goes into this exciting, annual groups that could use donations and people’s time tradition. during the holiday season. We also covered some As you go into the new year and begin making places that people in need may be able to go to. that infamous New Year’s Resolution list, consider Volunteering is not just a graduation requirement adding ‘make time for community service.’ but a way to get involved in the community, meet The Viking Vanguard staff wishes you a happy new people and do something that feels good. It holiday and we look forward to another year of could be as simple as dropping off old clothes at reliable news, entertaining articles and providing a church or taking a few hours to help folks at a a platform for the community. Remember, go out, retirement home. It is the littlest things that can give back and gift your kindness. create a big difference.

Editorial Cartoon

A DV E R T I S I N G P O L I C Y:

The Viking Vanguard publication staff accepts advertisements for most products available to the public. However, the staff reserves the right to reject, edit or cancel any advertisement at anytime. Advertisements shall be free of implications that the staff deems offensive in light of normal public standards (WIAA 18.20.0 and 18.20.1) and will not be accepted. The staff will not accept advertising for products or groups which are racist, sexist or illegal for high school students. Advertisements do not necessarily reflect the views, endorsements and/or positions of The Viking Vanguard, student body, faculty, administration or school board.

V A N G U A R D

Issue 3: *On page two, the word is “Donor” not “Donor’s”. *On page three, the word is “gunman” not “gunnman”. *On page six, the photo is taken by Andrew Flury. *On page seven, the word is “concerts” not “concertos”. *On page 13, “Delicate” and “Don’t Blame Me” are switched. *On page 14, the graphic is by Emily Van Bergeyk.

L U C A S

Check out additional news, stories and photos on our website:

G R A C I E

vikingvanguard.com Instagram: @thevikingvanguard Twitter: @phsvanguard Facebook: Viking Vanguard O p in io n / / Dec . 1 5 , 2017

US E:

After Libyan migrant abuse made headlines earlier this month, Amnesty International alleged that funding sent by EU governments to the Libyan coastguard contributed to human trafficking among migrant groups attempting to reach Europe. Since NATO-backed groups ousted ruler Col Muammar Gaddafi in 2011, Libya has had a tumultuous political landscape. Violence in the Middle East and North Africa due to IS encroachment has lead thousands to seek passage to Europe through Libya. Many of these migrants are desperate and impoverished, making them a target of human trafficking and abuse.

CALIFORNIAN WILDFIRES

Fed by winds, Southern California wildfires have spread to nearly 150,000 wildfires in Ventura and Santa Barbara Counties. Thousands have been evacuated.

al ne ws

loc LIBYA RAISES HUMANITARIAN CONCERN

NE WS YO UC AN

President Trump formally recognized Jerusalem as Israel’s capital and declared that the U.S. embassy would be moved from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem Dec. 6. The announcement sparked protest in Gaza and many diplomats expressed concern that Trump’s move may have further complicated Israeli-Palestinian negotiations.

Th sto e top rie s o inte f t h rna e m tion on al, th. na tio na la nd

News Dec. 15, 2017

U.S. TO MOVE EMBASSY

NEW YORK

Twenty-sevenyear-old Akayed Ullah detonated a homemade pipe bomb in a NYC subway Dec. 11. While no bystanders were harmed, Ullah was hospitalized due to burns to his hands and abdomen.

RUSSIA BANNED FROM OLYMPICS

Russia is banned from competing in February’s Olympic games in Pyeongchang, South Korea due to what the International Olympic Committee calls “systematic manipulation” of anti-doping rules. However, Russian athletes who have been proven to be drug-free will be allowed to compete under the name “Olympic Athlete from Russia” (OAR).

DURKAN SWORN IN

Jenny Durkan has been sworn in as Seattle’s new mayor after her predecessor, Ed Murray, resigned due to multiple sexual molestation allegations. Democratic Durkan is the city’s first female mayor since 1928.

WEDDING CAKE COURT CASE

Last week, a court case concerning LGBTQ+ rights and religious freedom came before the Supreme Court. The case, which will decide the constitutionality of a Colorado baker’s refusal to bake a cake for a gay couple’s wedding, is anticipated to be a landmark case in deciding what constitutes discrimination.

‘PERSON OF THE YEAR’ NAMED B Y

M E G A N LY N N N E W S

| S T A F F

The #metoo movement was a widespread movement all across social media. Started by the people now known as “The Silence Breakers,” the movement has grown far beyond just social media. Time magazine named “The Silence Breakers” as the 2017 Person of the Year, however “The Silence Breakers” are not just one person, they are many individuals who helped bring the light to sexual harassment. Numerous women have spoken out since the beginning of this movement in October about their stories of sexual misconduct by professionals in sports, entertainment, media and business. Time praised the people who have voiced their secrets about each of these networks, pushing that this type of conduct is unacceptable. The magazine’s cover featured Ashley Judd, American actress and activist. Other women were featured on the cover who also announced that they have been harassed. These women represent a wide range of social statuses. From Taylor Swift to the average women, the impact is all the same in the #metoo movement. The announcement was made Nov. 6 on NBC’s Today show, where host Matt Lauer was fired the week before of harassment allegations. Today host acknowledged that the winner was “close to home,” directly referring to Lauer. The two runner-ups were President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping. Trump, Person of the Year in 2016, was accused of sexual misconduct by many women. He denies any wrongdoing.

V A N G U A R D

It all started with one act of courage.

New testing requirements examined B Y

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This year the Puyallup School District will not be requiring sophomores, class of 2020, to take the biology End of Course Exam (EOC) as a graduation requirement. Sophomore Sara Sprague explains her reaction on the new requirements involving the EOC. “It is a relief but the EOC may have better prepared us for the SAT,” Sprague said. Junior Teanna Linn agreed with Sprague, explaining how it may have been an asset to further test her knowledge in the subject. “I do think it is beneficial to take the EOC; it is not like it was hard it was just another test we had to take,” Linn said. Linn and Sprague’s mixed feeling about the subject reflected not only the students’ perspective but the teacher’s perspective, too.

time. The teachers share similar opinions to students “I will spend more time on labs, activities in some ways regarding this subject. Biology and topics I feel or more relevant to the teacher Rocquel Stanley shared the same opinion students,” Stanley said. as both Linn and Sprague: that the test was AP biology teacher Kelsey Massey expressed her beneficial. She felt the test gave students a sense interest in the result of the of purpose and new testing requirements accomplishment due to the adaptations. but she also agrees I FOUND MYSELF TEACHING “It will be interesting how that the EOC not THEM MORE HOW TO WRITE they are going to revise the being a graduation INSTEAD OF TEACHING THEM test because they are going requirement is a relief. to have new requirements “I found myself SCIENCE. again,” Massey said. “The teaching them more RO CQU EL STA N LE Y test held a lot of people back, how to write instead BIOLO G Y T E AC H E R the requirements and rigor of teaching them of the Collection of science, which was Evidence did not match the test.” frustrating,” Stanley said. This will also allow her to focus on subject other than studying for the EOC, taking up needed class

N e w s // Dec. 15, 2017

GIRLS ROBOTICS PLACES THIRD

“In Super Regional, we were once underestimated by one of our alliance partners who were boys, with us being an allgirls team. They did not think our autonomous would n a world of innovation, technology and science, men seem work well, so they insisted that they would run to be at the forefront of it all. An all-female robotics team theirs for the match. However, when we from Bellevue defied expectations when they won third demonstrated our autonomous to them, place in the FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science they finally said that we could run ours. and Technology) World Championship this past April in At World [Championships] when we Houston, Texas. were selecting teams for our alliance as Team Captain Ashley Meade drove the winning robot at the we finished second place going into the competition. semi-final rounds, one team was not “I have enjoyed every aspect of robotics since I was in fourth taking our invitation to join grade but my favorite parts are building and programming us seriously but they later robots and watching my creation come alive. I also enjoy apologized,” Meade said. teamwork and teaching other people what I know about The team did not let robotics,” Meade said their fellow contestants But programming and constructing robots is not a fast and discourage them. Because easy task. of their achievement in the “We meet three days a week: Sundays, Wednesdays and competition, it was easier Fridays with a total for them to raise funds and of 12 hours per week. recruit new members. We may meet some WE WERE ONCE PHS Robotics Club extra time if it is UNDERESTIMATED BY ONE OF Adviser Andrew necessary,” Meade McClure thinks OUR ALLIANCE PARTNERS WHO said. likewise. He Meade’s team WERE BOYS. explains his operated together to A SH LE Y M E A DE thoughts on the make the robot do all J U N IOR general myths of robotics. kinds of tasks. “That it is just the smart, “For last year’s FTC nerdy kids that are doing it, and it is [First Tech Challenge] competition, we built a robot that could all boys. I would admit that is how it shoot balls accurately into a basket three feet off the ground. starts out. I think I had two girls It could also lift and place a 26-inch yoga ball onto the basket. that started last year and I ended Autonomously it could detect the color of beacon lights and with just one, but anybody can do determine which button to push on the beacon,” Meade said. it. There are teams that are in this Two years ago, our robot could hang from a bar and I thought competition that are made up of all that was really cool.” girls, that are all-girls teams. And you do not even have to Along with her other teammates, the group strategized and know robotics,” McClure said. “I mean, you could be a worked with an alliance team to their success. person that is outgoing and can talk with other people, “There is an 18-inch cubed sizing limit for the robots in our you can do those same skills even with marketing or competition. It is a big challenge to figure out how to fit all of communicating with others, but the biggest is just, you our robot’s subsystems and still have a robot that meets that know, the nerdy kids, it is the smart kids. Really, it could be requirement,” Meade said. anybody. That label does not fit. If you have a passion for But being in a male-dominant field of science did come with building things, designing things; we can do all those some distasteful sexist remarks and underestimation from their To continue things here.” male competitors.

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A N D R E W

F L U R Y

V A N G U A R D

The new Republican tax bill, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, passed the House of Representatives with a 227-207 vote Nov. 9. It passed through the Senate Dec. 2. The reform means different things for different people but here are the most important aspects of the bill, according to the Ways and Means Committee:

Tax Brackets: The seven current tax brackets would be reduced to four, meaning more people pay the same tax rate.

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N ews // Dec. 15, 2017

A N D R E W F L U R Y S T A F F

Deductions: The standard tax deduction increases from $6,350 to

$12,000. A tax deduction decreases one’s taxable income, so an increase in tax deductions means a decrease in taxes.

Child Tax Credits: Tax credits work like tax deductions, reducing income tax. Under the new Republican plan, the child tax credit increases from $1,000 to $1,600 per child. Corporate Tax Rate: The corporate tax rate decreases from 35 percent to 20 percent. Pass-through Tax Rate: Passthrough businesses are businesses that do not pay taxes directly but have the income of their owners taxed. The new Republican plan would place a separate 25 percent tax rate on these sort of businesses.

D O M A N | V A N G U A R D

Every year the debate between families continues; real trees or fake trees? Vanguard’s Editor-in-Chief and Managing Editor share their opinions.

Fake trees

Opinion

R I L E Y

FAKE TREES V. REAL TREES

have 70 years of water and pesticide consumption. Those have environmental costs, too,” Harman said. calendar, Faux trees are also less messy marking the and easier to transport. They first day of are assembled from pieces, December. othing so they are easy to store and Christmas says more simple to fit through music blasts H . K E I Z U R the front door. Also, you no down the C H I E F “Christmas” more longer have to water the hallway, than fresh-fallen plant everyday, sweep the smell snow blanketing up pines or pick out the of Christmas cookies floats from the the world with its best-looking tree skirt. kitchen and a glowing tree stands expectant hush, E . VA N B E R G E Y K Overall, artificial watch in the middle of the living room. a cozy sweater’s trees can add the If the tree was real, it would die M A N AG I N G comforting hug, an within a few weeks. But, due to its faux same amount of evergreen tree’s bright, joy to the holiday branches, it could, hypothetically, stay garbage such as spicy scent. From balsam fir to season, while there for years on end. scraps of plastic blue spruce, Christmas trees are lasting longer, Despite the fun family adventures bags, in their one of the central symbols of the being better for and memories that can be created stomachs. The UN holiday season. And of course, the environment from cutting down a real tree or the Environmental no plastic tree can compare to the overtime and nostalgic, piney scent that radiates Program estimates magic of a living holiday tree. The providing a from it, there are many benefits to that over a million yearly tradition of cutting down a cleaner option artificial trees. Not to mention, there seabirds, as well living tree is one of the most fondly to an otherwise are a plethora of satisfying holiday as more than 100 remembered holiday events; after the messy holiday scents in candle form all over the mall. thousand marine trees are brought into living rooms tradition. Additionally, not everyone has mammals, die every nationwide, they perfume the air with the type of car to transport a tree year from ingesting a scent calling years of holiday joy to every year. The gas used to get to plastic debris. mind. a Christmas tree farm can also be Plastic is unarguably While the Christmas-y charm of an harmful to the environment. One devastating for the authentic evergreen tree is far superior to ambiguous aspect of this debate is environment, so why tarnish a the lifelessness of a plastic one, by far the how long you use a tree and how you joyous holiday with the guilt of harming our most compelling reason to use a real tree rather dispose of it. If you use a real tree each planet? than a fake is its smaller environmental impact. year and properly dispose of it, it can Fans of plastic trees often claim that Plastic waste is one of the most devastating impacts be okay for the environment. throwing a tree away every year makes humanity has had on the planet. However, if you use an artificial a natural tree just as environmentally According to the Plastic Waste Project, about 300 million tree for more than seven years, it is detrimental as an artificial one. However, tons of plastic are produced globally each year, some of more beneficial. Thomas Harman, unlike most plastic trees, real trees can which end up in artificial Christmas trees, which in turn find founder of Balsam Hill, a seller be recycled through local tree collection their ultimate resting place in a landfill. Ten percent of plastic of artificial Christmas trees, in programs. Even if a real tree is thrown waste ends up in our oceans, and eventually makes its way to the an interview with weather. away, it decomposes and eventually gives Pacific, which, in case you had not noticed, is our near neighbor. com said that both real nutrients back to the soil, while all a plastic Currently, there is a compilation of plastic waste (called the “Great and fake trees can affect tree can contribute to the soil is toxins and Pacific garbage patch”) estimated to be up to 15,000,000 square our earth. plastic microparticles. kilometers in area—that’s almost twice the area of the continental “If you use an In addition, many tree vendors sell potted United States. artificial tree for christmas trees which can be placed outside The enormous volume of plastic in the world’s oceans is gradually 10 years, you January through November and brought in degraded into microparticles, but does not decompose. Instead , it mingles need 10 trees to decorate every holiday season. This not with plankton on the ocean surface, where it is eaten by fish and slowly kills and that is 70 only eliminates the waste of throwing away them. Plastic microparticles make their way up the food chain when seabirds and years’ worth or recycling the tree, but also the need to other predators eat the fish and are in turn eaten by other predators. Dead animals are of growing buy a new one every year. regularly found with enormous amounts of plastic micro- and meso-particles, as well as trees. You ou flip the

Real trees

Dec. 15, 2017

C O M P I L E D

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H A L E Y K E I Z U R A N D C H I E F A N D S T A F F

A N A

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During the Holiday Seas

Angel One Food B

They are an outdoors “We foundation has been are a started of 13 families other comm three different locatio . A lo u n i and help the people i ty, th t of p lot of a is open every Friday eople t mea peop Address: 17404 Meri to do le ge ns we get a Phone: (253) 381-532 t i l s h a o a l t t l o n o -St. F rely o d-ups f han rancis help pe n eac d-out and w ople House s h hat w but n beco Progr ot a e are me s ams M e anage looki Good St. Francis Ho r Laur lf-sustai n g The St. Francis Ho a And Samaritan Hospital n erson able.” many opportunities This Puyallup hospital offers many volunteer opportunities, although there may be age restrictions and required paperwork. However, anyone is able to donate new toys or clothes. Due to medical bills and the inability to work, many parents cannot afford a lot of gifts for their children. Consider making donations to light up a child’s holiday. For more volunteer information, check out https://waystohelp.multicare.org/ volunteer-opportunities

There are many other local hospitals that you could volunteer at, too.

Mary Bridge Children’s Hospital Check out https://www.marybridge.org/ about/giving/ to find out how to give.

Tacoma General Hospital

Check out the same website as Good Samaritan Hospital to learn more.

and people in need. T on Mondays-Fridays fro Saturday from 10 a.m. to of clothes, furniture, app pans. Address: 322 7th St SE, P Phone: (253) 770-6991

They are open Tuesdays shopping cycles and Frid cycles.If people want to s need to show up thirty m address and financial rec

“It is pretty gratifying knowing that someone is going to have what they need to go to school and feel good about themselves.”

-St. Francis House Programs Manager Laura Anderson F ocus // Dec. 15, 2017

son Helping Hands House

Bank

s food bank. The Angle one around for 14 years. They s a week to 25,000 people in ons. They want to raise up in need out. The food bank from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. idian E, Puyallup, WA 98375 27

They are dedicated to preventing and ending family homelessness. They provide housing to families living in East Pierce County. They accept online donations at http://helpinghandhouse.org/donate Address: 4321 2nd St. SW Puyallup, WA 98373 Phone: (253) 848-6096 Email: info@ helpinghandhouse.org

ouse

ouse offers s for volunteers They take donations om 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and o 3 p.m. They accept donations pliances and kitchen pots and

Puyallup, WA

and Thursdays for three separate day nights for two shopping sign up to receive items, they minutes prior with proof of cords.

Life Care Center of Puyallup

While the Life Care Center doesn’t typically take individual volunteers, they love groups and could always use high school volunteers to bring some holiday cheer to the elderly of the center. You could go sing or play music, such as piano, bring a project to work on, such as card making or help with their Christmas party. For more information, contact the activities director, Jeanna Morris at (253)275-8875 or Jeanna_Morris@lcca.com

The Community Center’s Christmas Celebration (Saturday, Mountain View Dec. 16 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.) is open to any family in need in the Community Center community. There will be a hot There are a plethora of breakfast, presents for the kids, a volunteer opportunities for visit with Santa, hats, socks coats high school students at the and mittens for the kids and community center. They range the food bank will be open from volunteering at the Kid’s starting Club, helping at Seeds of Change, at 11 a.m., so families a weekly meal for members of the will have access to community, packing the Kid Power that. Packs and helping with the Christmas Celebration and Santa Breakfast. There are also other events that come up throughout the year. If interested, email contact@mtviewcc.org to be added to the volunteer list or receive for information.

“V sp olun dif end teer -M fere a li ing Pro t. Vie nce ttle is a gra w C .” tim gre m o e at Co mm m ord un ak wa ina ity C ing y t to o Puyallup Food Bank r B ente a big The Puyallup Food Bank is a et h A r Se place where you can get food but they n n also have a children’s gift program. They have been giving back to Puyallup for over 40 years. They love any and all volunteers.They also accept food donations on site. For more information go to http://puyallupfoodbank.org/ Address: 110 23rd St SE, Puyallup, WA 98372 Phone: (253) 848-5240 Email: foodbank@puyallupfoodbank.org

n J ior oh nso n

F o c u s // Dec. 15, 2017

GET INVOLVED IN YOUR COMMUNITY B Y

Above: The St. Francis House offers clothing and Christmas gifts to many families in the community. Volunteers spend hours organizing clothes, such as these pants, leading up to the shopping cycles. Other volunteers make gift packages for the children of the families that come to get supplies.

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Above and below: PHS students decorate trees at the Life Care Center of Puyallup with the Communities in Schools March Gladness service team. The Life Care Center takes groups of students that are interested in helping the elderly.

Focus // Dec. 15, 2017

H A L E Y K E I Z U R C H I E F

ights twinkle, presents overflow from beneath the crystalized pine tree, the scent of freshly-baked cookies wafts through the air. As metallic red wrapping paper is torn apart and beautifully-tied bows are carelessly tossed aside, succeeded by gleeful grins and laughs, it is important to remember those that lack access to those experiences. Many families, especially in Puyallup, do not have the money for presents or extravagant holiday meals; some lack a safe and secure home or any home at all. Those who are fortunate enough to have access to those things or even those who do not, should consider donating time, money or gifts to local organizations. By volunteering in the community, not only would you be helping out your friends in the area but you could also learn a lot about yourself and what you enjoy doing. Senior Rimpal Kaur Bajwa volunteers at a variety of places in the community, such as Karshner Elementary School as a tutor, the St. Francis House, Step by Step and FISH Food Bank. Bajwa has seen the positive results of community service throughout her life. “Community service has benefitted me by allowing me to participate in something greater than myself and ultimately helping me discover my inner passion. A passion that has motivated me to pursue my future goal of becoming an advocate for the voices that are often ignored to ensure that every individual in the community is given both equal treatment and equal opportunity,” Bajwa said. “Serving as a volunteer has prepared me for the future by teaching me to avoid becoming consumed with my own problems and urging me to consider everyone’s situation.” The program’s manager at St. Francis House in Puyallup, Laura Anderson, emphasizes how important community service is for young people. Not only is the feeling extremely gratifying but

it teaches you what you like and dislike to do. “It is a lifetime opportunity and it is an opportunity not only to help other people but it is an opportunity to see the world through other people’s eyes, especially for young people. [My career] has certainly opened my eyes to the needs of our

IT IS AN OPPORTUNITY TO SEE THE WORLD THROUGH OTHER PEOPLE’S EYES, ESPECIALLY FOR YOUNG PEOPLE. L AU R A A N DE R S ON PRO GR A M S M A NAGE R

community, then in turn, the needs of our world. But, we have to start where we are at. We cannot save the world but we can start in our own community. You learn and you grow,” Anderson said. The St. Francis House is a donation-based clothing bank that strives to be a compassionate presence in the community. With only 11 staff members, they rely on their plethora of volunteers to function. They have many perennial volunteers that help on the same day or days and perform the same tasks each week. They also welcome many high school volunteers to work on bigger projects that come up throughout the year, as well as consistent small jobs. As they head into January, they will be renovating the house and will be

IF YOU AND YOUR FAMILY ARE IN NEED OF A MEAL, YOU CAN ALSO ATTEND THE WEEKLY GATHERINGS. BET H A N N JOH NS ON PRO GR A M CO O DI NATOR

in need of volunteers to help them put items into storage. To volunteer, you can submit an online application or get a hardcopy from the house downtown. You will then be contacted, taken on a tour of the organization, then work with the programs manager to decide what you want to do and what days you want to volunteer. As for donations, they accept donations of gently-used, clean

clothing, small household items and other items people may use in an apartment, six days a week. Bajwa suggests volunteering at the St. Francis House during the holiday season. “They give volunteers the opportunity to provide holiday baskets to those less fortunate. They allow young adults to spread the holiday cheer by giving back to the ones who need it the most in our community. They are very welcoming and they could definitely use any extra help,” Bajwa said. Mt. View Community Center Senior Program Coordinator Beth Ann Johnson has also seen volunteering benefit and provide for the community. “When you give back to the community, you are really giving the community an opportunity to become stronger and safer for everyone. Volunteering this holiday season really helps; too many families in our community will not have a holiday with the volunteers who make these events possible,” Johnson said. It is especially crucial for young people to give back this time of year, she says. “Volunteering is a great way to spend a little time making a big difference. It also gives you the opportunity to get some great hands on experience. It is an opportunity to learn skills that you might not get in another setting,” Johnson said. The community center offers a lot of volunteer opportunities all year round. This includes an afterschool kid’s club, the annual Christmas celebration and Santa breakfast and packing KidPower packs. “[We also have] Seeds of Change, our weekly community meal. We use volunteers to help serve meals for up to 150 people each Thursday from 5:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. We ask volunteers to arrive around 4:30 p.m., to help with any last minute set up for the meal and to help with clean up after the meal,” Johnson said. You can contact Johnson at 253.826.4329 or contact@mtviewcc. org for more information. If you and your family are in need of a meal, you can also attend the weekly gatherings. Families in attendance will also have access to the Edgewood Community Food Bank.

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| students became her world.” Yanasak’s friends emphasize how loving and loyal she was. Sharon Yanasak, a Meeker Meeker teachers Mary Ann Loucks Elementary teacher for over 20 years, and Sue Field knew her for over 20 passed away Oct. 22 after a fiveyears and both taught Yanasak’s year battle with cancer. She was 63. children. Yanasak is survived by two sons and “She always had energy and a daughter: Curtis Yanasak, Chris smiles,” Yanasak and Loucks said. Ericka Bairle“When I Meacham. SHARON YANASAK WAS SO was going “She treated HUMBLE...SHE DID THINGS through everyone with BECAUSE THEY WERE THE hard times love and respect, she would RIGHT THING TO DO. as if they were give me the only person S U E F I ELD little verses T E A C H E R who mattered,” from the Bairle-Meacham Bible to help said. me through the day. I would keep “She was driven by a dedication to them in my pocket and we would friends and neighbors and hundreds trade them back and forth.” of kids considered her a ‘second Yanasak stepped in as a substitute mom’.” for Field, who recounts the faith she Bairle-Meacham, a teacher at Shaw had in her friend. Road, considers her mother a true “Sharon was so dependable. When inspiration. she was in charge, you just knew “My mom was an inspiration to she would take care of everything,” everyone she met, me included,” Field said. “She did things because Bairle-Meacham said. “She lived a they were the right thing to do.” wholesome life, selflessly giving to According to Field, Yanasak was others: a true model of caring. The also an adventurous soul: she was three of us kids were her world...and a certified scuba diver and an avid when she went into teaching, her B Y

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skier. “She has been all over the place,” Field said. “She [traveled] through Europe, just her and her kids.” Patrick McGregor was the principal of Meeker Elementary during Yanasak’s last three years teaching. “The biggest thing was her connection to kids, an ability to connect and find the thing that motivated them,” McGregor said. “And she would do whatever it took, if it was outside [of class], inside--it did not matter.”

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Dec. 15, 2017

Even after Yanasak retired, she returned as a volunteer at Meeker and her decorations in the school’s front hall can be seen today. “The culture here is family and she embodied that, especially when times got tough,” McGregor said. “I thank her for her dedication to each child and all children. That is what her legacy is.”

HOW HOLIDAYS ARE CELEBRATED B Y J O R Y D U VA L L A DV E R T I S I N G

The holidays are celebrated in a variety of ways in our school, our community and our world. Puyallup High School students come from different families, different cultures and different religions that make no one person the same as another. Sara Orlandi, a senior exchange student from Italy, has a unique way of celebrating Christmas. “From the first of December, [my family starts] opening our little presents, then we open one every day until Christmas. We save the biggest one for Christmas morning,” Orlandi said. Senior Gabby Horton spends this time of year in a different way as well. “My family does not celebrate a specific

holiday… We spend time together. We still buy and receive presents. It is basically how you celebrate Christmas but we do not have the same beliefs,”

I THINK THE SCHOOL IS TOO FOCUSED ON CHRISTMAS AND NOT FOCUSED ENOUGH ON THE REST OF THE HOLIDAYS. SA R A OR L A N DI ST U DE N T

Horton said. When it comes to decorations, students

believe that the school is too strongly supporting Christmas traditions. “I think [the school is] too focused on Christmas and not focused enough on the rest of the holidays. In Italy we mostly celebrate Christmas so decorations are not a problem. We should do more for Hanukkah and Kwanzaa and the other holidays,” Orlandi said. About nine-in-10 Americans (92 percent) and nearly all Christians (96 percent) say they celebrate Christmas according to Pew Research Center. While this seems like a high statistic, there is still a small percentage of those who do not celebrate that should be remembered. “[The decorations do] not affect me personally but I cannot imagine how attacked students feel if they do not celebrate Christmas at all,” Horton said.

Fun, festive holiday gift ideas As teenagers, it can be difficult to find gifts for your friends and family. The Vanguard has compiled a few cheap, yet fun gifts you can give this holiday season. B Y

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With the holiday season also comes a lot of tests and schoolwork. Here are some budgetfriendly gifts you can buy if you cannot dedicate time to making a DIY gift.

Fun Socks Target

Coffee Mug TJ Maxx

Portable Charger Amazon

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Features // Dec. 15, 2017

Cologne or Perfume Target

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The holiday season and the sweetness of cookies go hand in hand. Consider baking snickerdoodle, sugar or gingerbread cookies and packaging them up to give to friends or family. They will love them and the sweet aroma filling your kitchen will be incentive enough.

A pamper kit is the perfect thing to help your friends or family relax and feel appreciated. Face masks, nail polish, bath bombs and more make a perfect addition to the kit. Other ideas are lotion, perfume or body scrubs. Adding ribbon around the kit can help make it even more special.

Giving the gift of time is a great idea for friends. Put together a box with popcorn, candy, movie tickets and more fun stuff. Adding the movie tickets not only gifts your friend with a movie experience, it also is a promise of time you will spend with them. For more ideas, look up “movie kit”.

The feeling of cozying up with a warm blanket and popping in A Charlie Brown Christmas is enough to get in the holiday spirit. A fun, yet admittedly time-intensive DIY is to make a tie-blanket. You can simply purchase kits from JoAnn Fabrics or buy two different types of fleece, needing about one yard of each. For detailed directions, look up “tie blankets”.

ORMISTONS SHARE SARAH’S STORY S

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enior at Puyallup High School, water girl for the football team, Unified Basketball and Bowling participant, Sarah Ormiston embodies the Viking Way. According to her mother, Amy Ormiston, Sarah does not only enjoy the playing part of sports but the social part of them as well. “She loves sports and she loves people. She loves the social aspect of sports as well as the... competitive aspect of sports. But that is her main interest but other than that she just really wants to be around people and be social,” Amy said. Sarah likes to make sure people know that she cares about them by simple gestures. “I like saying hi to people because I want to show people I care about them even if they do not feel

favorite memory with Sarah is not big or like it. When someone is sad I like to talk to them, extravagant. Her favorite memory is when they to help them feel better because that helps me were little, listening to music and racing their when I am upset...I just have a good feeling when I hermit crabs. talk to other people,” Sarah said. “We have a lot memories Sister Lauren Ormiston but off the top of my head, finds Sarah’s happy one of my favorites is when personality a unique trait. we were younger and we had “Sarah finds a way to SARAH FINDS A WAY TO hermit crabs and Sarah would brighten up any room she BRIGHTEN UP ANY ROOM SHE blast like Big Time Rush walks into. I do not think WALKS INTO...SHE CAN BE music in her room and then I have ever seen a time, FRIENDS WITH ANYBODY. I would be in my room next in public at least, where door and then i would be like, she was not smiling and L AU R E N OR M I STON SI ST E R ‘Sarah, come in.’ Then she happy around people would come into my room and wanting to make and we would race our hermit everybody feel like they crabs and sing to Big Time Rush,” Lauren said. had a spot or they had a friend,” Lauren said. “She “That was just really fun. We shared this common can be friends with anybody, she is willing to give thing we both loved: these little animals. We could anyone a safe place and have heart for people. She play around with them and we both liked listening wants to make everyone feel welcome.” to music and we could just be in the moment.” Father to Sarah, Perry Ormiston has similar Although Sarah has many great qualities, she views as Lauren in that he thinks Sarah has does have a disability. She was diagnosed with unique traits. autism at a young age but she did not find out until “They like the fact that she is fearless in she was older. talking to people and she is very genuine. She “Our doctor said it was best not to say anything is not trying to present herself in a way that is just because it was a label. She was not diagnosed different than she is,” Perry said. until she was eight and we did not want to put Amy is happy when Sarah is happy. Amy’s a label on her because she was such an amazing favorite memory with Sarah ended up with person and we did not want that to hold her back both girls happy. but now we realized that things about her autism “We went to the One Direction concert are really together. That was a favorite wonderful memory. I held her on my and positive,” shoulders and I could SHE HAS HER OWN SPECIAL Amy said. hardly see the whole SET OF GIFTS AND SKILLS. I “Another thing but she could THINK EVERYONE BENEFITS thing is that see up high and it we have was great. We FROM THESE. grown as had great seats PE R RY OR M I STON a family and it just FAT H E R through made me Sarah’s so happy challenges. It is just like everything else. to see her so Everybody is different in the way they are and yet happy,” Amy she presents very uniquely, not everybody [who is said. diagnosed with] autism is like her. She is a unique For one because typically they are not social, as social Lauren, as Sarah.” her Perry thinks that although she has autism, Sarah has a bright future. “Despite the fact that Sarah has autism and has her challenges, she is a really surprising and able person. She has her own special set of gifts and skills. I think everyone benefits from these. She has a bright future, we do not know what the future holds but we are excited to see what it turns into. She will be around next year at PHS for sure and maybe the year after,” Perry said. Although Sarah Ormiston has her challenges she wanted people to know something about her. “I want people to know that just because I have a disability does not mean I can be not nice. I want people to know I care about people even if they are nice or mean. I want them to know that I am willing to be there for them no matter what situation they go through because that is the kind of person I am. I like to care for people, not just myself,” Sarah said.

Above: Sarah Ormiston works on a project for leadership in Jamie Mooring’s class.

F e a t u r es / / Dec. 15, 2017

A&E Dec. 15, 2017

HOLIDAY DRINKS CRITIQUED REVIEW

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ith every holiday season, Starbucks gathers a plethora of criticism or praise for their annual holiday cup designs. But in addition to a new cup design, they also introduce plenty of new holiday-themed drinks. This year, Starbucks has rolled out a number of new holiday drinks, some that are sure to land on the nice list and others that deserve coal. The five holiday drinks I have explored over the last month since their release are the Toffee Almond Milk Hot Chocolate, the Chestnut Praline Chai Latte, the Holiday Spiced Flat White, the Toasted White Chocolate Mocha and the Snickerdoodle Hot Chocolate.

Toffee Almond Milk Hot Chocolate:

This drink was something brand new to my Starbucks palette. Typically, I am not a fan of the Starbucks hot chocolate. But this was a completely new take on the drink. It did not really have a chocolatey flavor, instead having a more nutty flavor, as a drink with almond milk and toffee should. It left a strong aftertaste of caramel and toffee, the caramel stemming from the caramel brulee topping. Overall, the Toffee Almond Milk Hot Chocolate is good but nothing special.

This year, Starbucks has changed how they make the drink, a source says. Instead of steaming the spices in with the milk for a more blended taste, this year they just dump the spices into the drink, which causes it to be grainy, clumpy and overall unpleasant. With the first sip, I was immediately smacked in the face with nutmeg, ginger and the rest of the “holiday spices,” which completely overpowered the rest of the drink. I think this drink could be enjoyable with less of the spice flavor but currently it is undrinkable.

Toasted White Chocolate Mocha:

I have always joked that the White Chocolate Mocha is the gateway to coffee obsession. It is the drink I drank in seventh grade just so I could say I drank coffee, whereas now it is so obnoxiously sweet to me that I can not even drink it. That being said, the Toasted White Chocolate Mocha is technically new to the menu but nothing new to my taste buds. It tastes very similar to the regular White Chocolate Mocha. But it is somehow even sweeter. The candied cranberry topping adds an aesthetically pleasing look but an awkward, Pop Rocks-like texture to drink. Personally, this drink is just too sweet for me. But if you enjoy the normal White Chocolate Mocha, you’ll definitely enjoy it.

The Snickerdoodle Hot Chocolate:

My grandpa’s snickerdoodles are my all time favorite cookies. They are warm, cinnamon-filled and delicious. My first Chestnut Praline Chai sip of this drink transported me to my Latte: grandparents’ house, evoking memories of my As someone who strictly favorite cookies. sticks to coffee-based drinks, I have to admit that this The Snickerdoodle Hot Chocolate is true to drink is amazing. While the its name; it has that Chestnut Praline Latte is good, signature snickerdoodle the chai version is so much taste of cinnamon and better. It tasted warm, like IT TASTES NOTHING LIKE A and sugary goodness. my grandma’s gingerbread TRADITIONAL HOT CHOCOLATE It tastes nothing like a cookies. To me, it is essentially traditional hot chocolate BUT THAT IS WHAT MAKES IT Christmas in a cup. Since it but that is what makes it SO GOOD. does not originally come with so good. This is a drink espresso, it is pretty sweet. MC K E N NA Z AC H E R that knows exactly what it SP ORT S But this complements its is and delivers. overall aesthetic. I definitely recommend this beverage to my fellow coffee-or-die devotees; it may surprise you.

Holiday Spiced Flat White:

This drink and I have a complicated relationship. I really wanted to like it, as a Flat White with peppermint syrup has a special place in my heart. But I just do not.

This year’s new Starbuck bucks holiday drinks, for the most part, delivered on making me even more jolly this holiday season. Consider stopping into Starbucks this Christmas and picking up a warm, cozy drink in a festive cup.

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REVIEW Greta Gerwig’s “Lady Bird” just broke the record for the best review on Rotten Tomatoes. Taking place in Sacramento in the early 2000s, the film follows the story of adventurous Catholic High School senior Christine “Lady Bird” McPherson (Saoirse Ronan) and her chaotic relationship with her mother (Laurie Metcalf), who is exhaustedly working to keep her family financially stable after her husband (Tracy Letts) loses his job. The movie was given a whopping 100 percent review, with 185 out of 185 reviewers offering

of female stories, which lead to stereotypes and “fresh” evaluations. uninteresting/overused plots. With this movie, The last highest-reviewed movie of all time women are given the chance to shine. This film on Rotten Tomatoes was the beloved 1999 film smashes the patriarchal “Toy Story 2,” which also values rooted in Hollywood. delivered one hundred Gerwig’s “Lady Bird” percent satisfaction but with seems to be taking over the only 163 reviews. THIS FILM SMASHES THE movie industry as one of the While both are relatively PATRIARCHAL VALUES ROOTED most critically acclaimed great cinematic pieces IN HOLLYWOOD. movies of 2017. of work, “Lady Bird” With a relatable plot and specifically stands out as a M EGA N JA MOR A raw, real characters, it is film by women. Gerwig’s STA F F clear that this film is taking movie deserves all the the world by storm. exposure it gets because it “Lady Bird” is in theaters for a limited time. illustrates the perspective of a woman, written by a woman. Other movies depend on men to write depictions

Newly-released book-based film astonishes instrumental role in building up the atmosphere. Another aspect that must be mentioned is ave you ever thought about the scenery. Watching the movie made me what justice means? Prior to this want to travel. There are some breathtaking movie, the thought had never shots of some cities in the film, Istanbul for crossed my mind and why would it have? example. The train speeding on its tracks After watching “Murder on the Orient over a snow-blanketed mountain in the Express” I found myself thinking about dreary darkness of the night...sadly words that very question. A humorous, thoughtcannot describe well enough the scene that provoking mystery: what is not to like? still lingers in my mind. Perhaps I am overThe movie was based off of Agatha dramatizing this a little much, it just goes Christie’s novel, which I have not read. I to show how much I enjoyed this movie. cannot then say how accurately the film The main character, Hercule Poirot, follows the story and resolution. However, was a pleasure to watch. He was strange, in the film the story follows the “greatest introverted and sassy. I particularly detective in the world” Hercule Poirot appreciated that he laughed aloud to (played by Kenneth Branagh) as he tries to himself while reading his book (something solve a murder case on a train. that I tend to do myself). It was also Also making their appearances are refreshing to see a character that preferred Daisy Ridley (Star Wars) and Johnny Depp solitude to company. He earned quite a few (Pirates of the Caribbean), to name a few laughs from me; his actor familiar faces. portrayed him brilliantly. I must say Alright, the only thing now that I that sort of bothered me loved this THE MOVIE WAS ABSOLUTELY was the end. While it movie. The NOT A DISAPPOINTMENT AND was unpredictable and trailer piqued EXCEEDED MY EXPECTATIONS... utterly surprised me, it my interest and was cleaned up a little ramped up my K AT E LYC H I K too neatly and seemed a excitement for STA F F bit convenient. Of course, the film since I it makes sense in the first laid eyes context of the movie and it does not deduct upon it. from my overall enjoyment of the film...I The movie was absolutely not a understand the necessity and the way it disappointment and exceeded my ended was the catalyst for spurring those expectations with its superb actors and philosophical thoughts mentioned earlier. thrilling mystery. The ending came as a I do enjoy my mysteries. I like detective complete surprise for me, there was no way and crime shows quite a bit and finally I could have predicted it. That is an aspect seeing a good movie of that genre was that I appreciate. fantastic. I have to mention the music. For myself, I would gladly recommend this movie to the music that accompanies a game or a anyone and I would also glady watch this movie is a huge part of how much I enjoy again. Go on then, I dare you. See if you can the experience. As might be expected, I solve the mystery yourself. loved the soundtrack that played during

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this film. It was haunting at times and cheerful at others, all in all playing an

A & E // Dec. 15, 2017

Sports

LAWSON TELLS ABOUT LIFE Watson, he would always look out for me. He made me a better player and prepared me for the next level,” Lawson here is a new figure roaming the said. halls. You may have talked to him Lawson’s first dunk was at a young or seen him around. The figure age and he worked hard to get there. in question is the new security guard “I was 16 when I first dunked. I saw Daralin Lawson. a few of my other friends doing it But what you may not know is that his and I was like ‘I one true passion is basketball. could do that.’ I Lawson played the sport all kept pushing throughout high school and into college. myself until He went on to play professional in I finally Europe. dunked,” Lawson “Over in Europe there is more structure, more fundamentals, they focus said. Lawson has a on skills, not just athleticism like U.S. certain mentality basketball does,” Lawson said. going into his Lawson never had to struggle reaching games one that is the top shelf, standing at 6 feet 8 inches a little different but tall but he did struggle with being effective. smaller in weight for a man of his height. “I always had a kill According to Lawson, he never saw his mentality: I was always height as a disadvantage but his weight a hard charger; I had no took a while for him to grow into. fear, I felt like “When I had to kill the I was opposition,” Lawson I TELL THEM IT IS GOING TO younger, said. I was TAKE COMMITMENT AND A Lawson’s first on the CERTAIN LEVEL OF HARD WORK professional season was smaller TO REACH HIGHER LEVELS. bittersweet, having to deal side in with a death in his family. DA R AL I N L AWS ON weight,” SEC U R I T Y “When I got my very first Lawson pro contract, that season I said. played with a heavy heart; my grandma When you are younger, people can died, so I played with a lot of emotion. I impact your life and that could range gave it my all every game, not just for me from your parents to a teacher but for but for her too,” Lawson said. Lawson it was his college coach. Lawson now coaches basketball at “My very first college coach, Virgil B Y

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Emerald Ridge and he tries to make his players realize nothing is going to come easy. “I am not hard on kids but I am real. I tell them it is going to take commitment and a certain level of hard work to reach higher levels,” Lawson said. Lawson went on to play professionally but he still wishes he was able to change a few things from high school. “[Looking back on it now] I would change a whole lot [about my life]. I would have applied myself in school, high school that is. I had to turn down offers from Notre Dame, Clemson and a few other schools. I would have worked harder on lifting weights and running track not just basketball,” Lawson said.

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The Special Olympics Unified Basketball season is nearing. With returning players and some new faces, the team is hoping to make it back to

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“It is just great to see the kids work, both the peer partners and athletes, work together to make it a successful team and to help one another and it is just fun to win,” Anderson said. The team has won both Districts and State in previous years, last season making it to the State competition. The team, peers and coaches are competitive and plan on making it back to State. “We will work hard to get back to try get back to State,” Westling said. Almost anyone can be a peer partner and volunteer with the Unified team. Carson Simmons shared his favorite memory from the team as a peer partner. “One of my favorite memories is dishing the ball to my man Griffin and him hitting a game winner last year, nothing but net. Also State last year, there was a lot of people that wanted to win, which caught me off guard but now I know what to expect this year,” Simmons said. The Unified Sports program has impacted many people on the court: coaches,peers and athletes alike. The bond made on the court continues even outside of basketball says Anderson. “It is just great to see the kids and the peers now socializing in the lunchroom, on campus and everything. It is a nice barrier break for the athletes and the peer partners,” Anderson said.

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Paige Westling, an athlete on the Unified Basketball team, shared her thoughts on the upcoming season. “I am excited and I can not wait to play with the peers. We are looking really good and I can not wait to try to get back to State,” Westling said. The season is approaching fast, with the first practice Dec. 13. There are many players, coaches and peers. Senior Carson Simmons shared why he decided to become a student peer. “Coach Anderson had asked me to do it, my brother did it so I found time in my schedule to do it and just try it out and it is a fun time,” Simmons said. The Unified Basketball team is coached by John Anderson. Anderson has been volunteering in Unified Sports since 1981. He was asked to volunteer and has been doing it ever since.

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