N rsestar Parkway North High School

Volume 50, Issue 4, Feburary 14, 201312860 Fee Fee Rd. St. Louis, MO 63146

Also Featured:

Fencing pg. 10

Jason Thompson Leads Gormogon Band

Presidential Inauguration Pg. 4

Senior Night Pg. 14

Page 12

Independent Studies Pg. 9

3NEWSFebruary 14, 2012Parkway North High School

Norsestar StaffKevin Graeler ...Editor in ChiefEmily McCarter ...Editor in ChiefJocelyn Treadway ...Design EditorSteven Chaffin ...Online & Entertainment EditorBrandon Fredman ...Online Coordinator & Opinions EditorIan Brown ...News EditorJamie Powell ...Community EditorMolly Thal ...Centerspread Editor

Aurora Wrancher ...Features EditorGianna Sparks ...Features EditorRichard Reynolds ...Sports EditorStaff Writers and Photographers ...Katryn Dobkin ...Jonathan Herzog ...Emily Ladig ...Jordyn Werre ...Ashley Van Camp ...Brianne Lewis Tracy Silvagnoli...Sponsor

Norsestar Policy Norsestar encourages students, teachers, parents, administrators and other readers to pub-lish their opinion in the form of a letter to the editor. However, due to space limitations,not all letters can be published. Any student or faculty member may submit an article or photo to the Norsestar by placing the item in the mailbox in the library or by giving to a staff member. Letters must be signed; no anonymous articles will appear in the newspaper. Norsestar will accept any letter submitted regardless of whether or not the staff agrees with its opinion, unless the mate-rial presented is libelous, promotes illegal activities, or is deemed in poor taste by the editorial board. The staff reserves the right to edit letters for length or clarification.

Due to the current economic recession, the Parkway School District has seen a great loss in revenue since 2007, forcing the district to utilize reserves and savings in order to balance the budget. Now, in order to maintain a stable budget and strengthen the district’s financial standing, Parkway is planning to implement a $2-$4 million budget cut over the course of the next two years beginning in the 2013-2014 school year which will result in the loss of three faculty positions in each high school as well as restructuring and reducing several programs within the district. The current budget for Parkway is approximately $220 million, 93% of which comes from tax payers. The remaining 7% comes from the state and federal grants. From this budget, 85% of the money is spent on salaries and benefits for faculty in Parkway. “While there are companies which invest in selling products, the Parkway School District invests in teaching young people,” said Superintendent Dr. Keith Marty, “[Parkway] aims to keep class sizes small and offer a wide variety of courses and that’s part of what makes us a quality district.” Faculty positions in Parkway include teachers, administrators, secretaries, custodians, security, counselors, and various others. All of these jobs and their benefits are paid for by the district and need to be taken into careful consideration when the budget cuts are made. “It’s hard to reduce positions [in the district] because you can’t take too much away from one category,” said principal Dr. Jenny Marquart. “You can’t just take away all English teachers, for example, because every person contributes to work in this organization.” The budget cuts being implemented for next year are in addition to $8 million in cuts that were made last year and eliminated a total of 130 positions. These cuts have been made in order to help stabilize Parkway’s financial

Parkway District to Make Additional Budget Cuts

standing despite the current economic state of the country. “Because the country has been in a recession, property values have declined, and as a result, tax payers are contributing less money to the district’s revenue,” Dr. Marty said, “We also don’t receive revenue all year long, because it comes mainly from property taxes, but expenses still need to be paid throughout the year.” Parkway does have savings, which the district can pull money from for a time until conditions get better; however, this year the balance has run low and the district was required to borrow money from the state, according to Dr. Marty. On top of everything else, gas and food prices have also risen along with the price of healthcare, and as a result, the district has to

pay more to run the schools. Despite the cuts being made, Parkway’s goal is to not impact students directly during these cuts and affect the students as little as possible. “There will be some changes, and they will be different in every school,” Dr. Marquart said, “At North, we are trying to not raise class sizes and still offer as many of the same programs that we do now. We also want to maintain as many staff [members] as we can.” Each high school will lose about three positions next year, but because North’s population is projected to decrease from 1470 students to about 1400, the impact on class sizes should not change drastically. According to Parkway’s budget plan, all staffing reductions will be made over the course of

two years and the district hopes to make most of these reductions through attrition, where a staff member is not replaced after retirement or another leave of absence, to avoid layoffs. “We are in the midst of deciding [what staffing changes will be made at North]. All students have finished putting in course requests for next year and now we’re looking at how many classes we really need. Based on that, we will decide if all teachers in each department can stay, or be moved to either part-time or to another school which needs more teachers in that same department,” Dr. Marquart said. In order to maintain as many positions and course options as possible, Parkway has also been looking into more creative and efficient ways of reducing the district budget. “We all want to maintain or improve the quality of the district so it’s hard to say how we can accomplish things without everyone. [Parkway] has gotten creative with where cuts are made,” said Dr. Marty. Along with reducing three positions in each high school, Parkway plans on restructuring summer school, going paperless and implementing electronic bus stop notifications, replacing text books less frequently, reducing out-of-district travel, and reducing sixth grade Outdoor School held at Camp Lakewood. “Another thing we are considering is how we offer courses,” said Dr. Marquart. “Since some classes, such as AP Physics, have very few students sign up for it, we are considering offering certain courses either every other year, or even possibly combining classes between schools. Students could travel to another school to take some of their classes-much like students would go to a tech school for half a day. We are also considering using technology so students could attend these classes without leaving their school building.” Parkway School District aims to make sustainable decisions that will benefit and strengthen the district without harming the experience of the students through them. Information is available on the Parkway School District’s website.

Jo Treadway

Design Editor

Parkway Superintendent Keith Marty gives a presentation at Parkway Central during a district budget meeting on Jan. 31 where the budget plan for the next two years was discussed.

Staff Layoffs, Creative Downsizing Comprises New 2013-14 Budget

Photo by: Kevin Gralier

4 News February 14, 2013Parkway North High School

With President Obama going into his second term, it brings new cabinet members into the equation. Half of the old cabinet will be replaced with new faces in Obama’s Ad-ministration, but some of the faces are caus-ing a controversy.

The eight cabinet spots open include Secretary of State, Secretary of Treasury, Secretary of Defense, Secretary of Interior, Secretary of Commerce, Secretary of Labor, Secretary of Energy, and White House Chief of Staff. Two of the positions have been filled, with John Kerry as Secretary of State, and Dennis McDonough as Obama’s fourth Chief of Staff since 2009. There is, however, still uncertainty with many of those nominated to fill the positions.

Former Nebraska Senator Chuck Hagel (R) was nominated for Secretary of Defense by President Obama, but is facing opposition from both parties. Some people believe that his views on the Middle East and Israel are the opposite of where the U.S. has been mov-ing towards in recent years.

On Jan. 21, 2013, the second inauguration of President Barack Obama was held at the United States Capitol building, with over a million citizens in attendance lining the National Mall to listen to Obama’s inaugural address and various performers, including the U.S. Navy Band, Kelly Clarkson, and Beyoncé. Among the crowd were eighty-eight Parkway students donning bright-orange hoodies and fourteen faculty members, including history teacher Joni Patton, history teacher Josh Pennington, history teacher Melody Barger, and principal Jenny Marquart.

“We rolled into D.C. around 4 p.m. Saturday and went to the Kennedy Center that evening for dinner and a play, Sheer Madness. Sunday was spent touring places. We started with Arlington National Cemetery and the Pentagon Memorial, […] spent some time at the Smithsonian Museums and then on to other monuments, [including] the Lincoln Memorial, Korean War Memorial, Jefferson Memorial, Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial, Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial, and the Marine Corps War Memorial, or Iwo Jima Memorial,” said Patton.

The opportunity to see the wide variety of historically symbolic monuments was a new experience for many of the students and teachers alike.

“It was my first time going to Washington D.C., so I had never seen any of the monuments or landmarks before,” said senior Jessica Sikora. “My favorite part was seeing all of [the monuments] at night when they’re [illuminated]. It was very cool.”

“[I decided to be a chaperone for the trip because] I wanted to experience an inauguration. It is not something everyone gets to do in his or her lifetime, so why not take advantage of the opportunity when it

“[Hagel] has different views from a large percentage of the population and past admin-istrations. He is one of the few who have been hostile towards Israel with more support to-wards Middle Eastern Countries,” said his-tory teacher Bill Vogt.

Some people believe that Hagel will not be right for the job due to his views.

“Hagel would allow the Middle Eastern countries to walk all over us, and would ruin our relationship with Israel,” said junior Alex Cohen.

Other people believe Obama will pick the best person for the job, and if that’s Ha-gel, then people should respect that decision.

“Whoever President Obama nominates has a reason to be nominated. Since he is our president, we have to have trust in his deci-sion. Even though I do not agree with Hagel opposing the Iranian Nuclear sanctions,” said math teacher Joshlyn Harris.

Although Hagel is a possible cabinet member, Obama has more say in foreign pol-icy since Hagel’s role is an advisory position. Obama doesn’t have to do what Hagel says.

“It is not Hagel’s call when it comes to the U.S. foreign policy,” said history teacher

Scott Nilsen.Hagel is not the only person in the spot-

light. Newly confirmed Secretary of State John Kerry was received with mixed views.

“John Kerry is as good as anybody when it comes to Secretary of State; he is politically qualified for the position and has war time ex-perience,” said Nilsen.

Others disagree that Kerry will not live up to the reputation that Hillary Clinton had in her term as Secretary of State.

“Despite John Kerry having war time ex-perience, Hillary Clinton is more competent than Kerry. Hillary is more ‘hawkish’ and ag-gressive while Kerry is ‘dovish’ and passive,” said Vogt, “Kerry’s confirmation would mark a shift in administration towards the world.”

Along with Secretary of State and Sec-retary of Defense, Nominee for Secretary of Treasury, Jack Lew, is also receiving spotlight for his lack of Wall Street experience. Jack Lew, who was the former White House Chief of Staff, is seen as being aggressive and con-frontational.

“Having someone with business experi-ence from Wall Street may not be what you want,” said Nilsen.

presents itself? Plus, what a great experience for the students to be a part of this; I wanted to be a part of that experience with them,” said Patton.

The following Monday morning, the group rose early and headed to the National Mall to be a part of President Obama’s second inauguration. In the days leading up to the event, the nation’s capital was in full gear, operating solely for the purpose of the event.

“The city was getting all set up for the inauguration events, so that made traveling around DC a little tricky. Street vendors were out in full force selling their Obama products, and it was especially interesting to see snipers on the rooftops. There was a large military and police presence, but they were very helpful for finding your way around. The entire scene was very organized, and I never

felt disoriented or worried,” said Patton.The theme of this inauguration was

“Faith in America’s future”, reiterating Obama’s ongoing call for further investment in the next generation and educational reform, with Supreme Court Associate Justice Sonia Sotomayor administering the oath of office to Vice President Joe Biden, and Supreme Court Chief Justice John Roberts administering the oath to President Obama.

“It was really awesome to be a part of [the inauguration],” said Patton. “There were people from all walks of life-every color, every background-all celebrating the democratic process of freely electing a leader. Everyone was cheering, waving flags, yelling words of encouragement as President Obama was speaking. It was something I won’t soon forget.”

The inauguration also made some students, including junior Amy Shih, feel more connected with the rest of the country as the entire nation united to usher in Obama’s second term.

“The energy in the city was great,” said Shih. “Right before Obama began his speech, the workers there started to pass out little flags, making sure every single person got one. My favorite part about that day would probably be being able to look up towards the Capitol Building and see all these flags hovering in the air, and realizing just how united our large country is.”

“[The audience was] surprisingly civil,” said Barger. “Everyone quieted down together and listened [to the speakers]. It was respectful.”

Parkway’s voyage to Washington D.C. to take part in the inauguration and to experience all that the city has to offer was both an academically enriching and exciting experience.

“The most memorable moment for me was seeing the sea of orange hoodies parading through D.C. That was quite a sight, and we got a lot of compliments from others. Second, I loved watching the students take in the national monuments. It was pretty cool watching their expressions and their excitement at seeing things they’ve studied about in history classes but had never seen up close,” said Patton. “Lastly, the “We the People” echo during the president’s speech will forever stand out in my mind. I always thought I knew what being patriotic meant or how it felt, but at that moment, it was reintroduced to me.”

“To be there for the beginning of Obama’s second term was a huge honor,” said Shih. “He had a great first term, and I know that there will be more good things to come. I feel more connected to the rest of the country after attending such an event. Not only was I in the capital of the entire country, but I was also a part of history.”

New Cabinet Members Bring Forth New Beginning Others believe that with the United

States current economy, having someone such as Lew as Secretary of Treasury will leave the country with an uncertain future.

“Jack Lew is virtually unknown to Wall Street, and inserts a degree of uncertainty into the equation,” said Vogt.

With Obama building a new cabinet for his second term, a new question is raised. Will Obama’s Administration mark a new era?

Students, Faculty attend Obama’s Inauguration

Steven Chaffin Jr.

Online and Entertainment Editor

Zack Becker

Staff Writer

Eighty-eight student from Parkway attended the inauguration where each person in atten-dance received a United States flag to help show support for the president and the country.

Photo by Am

y Shih

“There were people from all walks of life-every color, every background - all celebrating the democratic process of freely electing a leader,” said Patton.

5OpinionsFebruary 14, 2013Parkway North High School

Richard Reynolds

Sports Editor

Kevin GraelerEditor-in-Chief

Society Uses Media as Scapegoat for Violence

Citizenship “Needs Improvement”:Parkway’s current citizenship grading system should become standardized

From the Columbine shooting to the tragedy at Sandy Hook Elementary, the media often gets blamed for violence in society. However, the media has been used as a scapegoat for the violence that takes place in schools nationwide, and society should instead help parents be more engaged in their kids lives.

“It’s easy for people to use the media as a scapegoat, but when you look deeper into it, there’s a lot more going on in someone’s life than their media intake,” said social studies teacher Julie McMullen. “News media has a responsibility of reporting news to us; parents have a responsibility to help interpret it.”

Adults often think that the media portrays violence in a way that people find appealing, in turn making it “socially acceptable” to be violent.

“It influences kids [to be violent] because they want to be on television,” said senior Arrion Robinson.

However, parents should be aware of what their children are doing, and they should monitor what they watch on T.V., and they should be aware of their children’s surroundings.

“The parents should be stricter. [They] should be telling their kids what to do-not the television,” said Robinson.

Many people forget the parents, who should be guiding their children, and immediately blame the media. However, parents play a bigger role than most people care to realize.

“The majority of kids’ behavior goes to the parents,” said McMullen. “[Being involved] is not preventing the kids from experiencing [media exposure] but providing a learning experience for them as they experience it. I do not censor my kids

Receiving a citizenship grade can oftentimes leave students at Parkway North in a state of confusion. For numerous years, these grades have been at the full discretion of each individual teacher. To be completely fair, this system needs to become standardized.

Although the student handbook gives general guidelines for the faculty to follow, phrases such as “exemplary contributions to the class activities” which are necessary to receive the mark of ‘Outstanding’ appear vague. Each mark has a description that is one sentence long and too general to help students understand what they need to do to receive the grade. A more descriptive explanation would erase a lot of questions that students have about the issue. It would also help teachers justify the grade given.

“I have students ask why they got a grade in citizenship before, and they want to know the reasons why they got what they

got,” said physical education teacher Brett Katz. “It is a subjective measure.”

These situations can lead to difficulty for teachers. Explaining their reasons behind the grades gives teachers the power to make their system whatever they want.

“Being respectful of the learning environment and of peers is the number one thing [to receive outstanding citizenship in my classes],” Katz said.

Upperclassmen have come to know this system throughout their careers at North but still remain puzzled about why such an important topic is approached in an ambiguous manner. The confusion for freshmen and sophomores is even greater as they attempt to figure out exactly what type of behavior and conduct it takes to earn an outstanding or satisfactory citizenship mark. Parkway Northeast Middle School gives students a glimpse of the system that is present in all district high schools.

“You have to do all your work, you need to pay attention in class, and you need to respect the teacher and other students

[in order to earn an ‘O’],” said junior Aaron Neifert.

The system needs to be changed for several reasons besides lessening the frustration. Even though the system is disregarded by many students at North, some parents track the behavior of their children by viewing these marks on a report card each semester. Receiving citizenship grades can impact a parent’s perception about the amount of effort being put forth in various classes each semester.

Neifert agrees standardization is necessary in order for students to fully understand all of the complexities involved with the system. “I think there should be a system because certain teachers have their own opinions about a student,” said Neifert.

North also offers a biannual breakfast for students who receive outstanding

because life is not censored. The biggest mistake a parent can make is not exposing their children to the media.”

After the Columbine shooting, people blamed violent video games, which the shooters Eric Harris and Dylan Klebold had played, for their action; however, it is not the fault of violent videogames. It is the parents’ fault for allowing their children to play it. If their parents were more positively engaged in their lives, perhaps they would have found a different outlet for their negative feelings.

“It’s also important for parents to be engaged in their children’s lives,”

said McMullen. “When parents don’t get involved, kids want to imitate what they see and sometimes glorify that.”

Video games, however, aren’t the only media influence people blame. Since the Sandy Hook tragedy, people have also put blame on the sensational media in the news.

“[The influence] is a combination of both. The media down plays effects that violence has on society, however, the parents should be aware enough to know when there are red flags in their child’s life,” said senior Aubrey Schwarz. “There should be steps taken for the child to be exposed to the media’s

violence but understand the difference between reality and media fabrication.”

Media is not the only problem when it comes to violence. Mental health care is also an important factor to prevent violence.

“Media can be a factor but when it comes to situations like in Connecticut, a good mental health system and finding a comprehensive way to find mental stress [would prove beneficial],” said psychology teacher Bob McKitrick.

It is important for parents to be aware of their children’s mental health and surroundings. Parents should know what is going on in their children’s lives and understand the affects that the children’s surroundings have on them. They would get professional help when needed. This will prevent a mental illness from developing later on in life.

“Parents should watch television with their kids, be there to explain it to their kids, and Google what their kids are watching. If you don’t have time, find out what they’re watching and, if it’s inappropriate, tell them not to watch it or tell them about it,” said McKitrick.

Another thing to remember is that it isn’t the media who gave the shooters their guns or their ammo and it isn’t the media who allowed for these events to take place. Most of these shooters obtained the weapons from family who left the weapons in a place of easy access.

“Restricted access to the weapons [would help] because even if someone wanted to do something, they can’t with restricted access,” said McKitrick.

Though many try to blame the media for the violence in schools, the blame should actually lean more towards the people who have a direct impact on the kids: their parents. The media can only control what they show, but the parents can control how their kids perceive it.

citizenship in five or more courses. The idea is carried out to promote positive role models within the Parkway North community. This leads to additional motivation for students

of all grades, but also a desire to know what must be accomplished to achieve the mark of outstanding citizenship in multiple classes in order to celebrate

with their peers.“[The citizenship grades] are not fair

at all. You have to be perfect in class to get an ‘O’,” said sophomore Adrian Bonilla. “The citizenship mixes with your real grade.”

Promoting outstanding citizenship has allowed Parkway to steer students towards academic excellence and social responsibility, but letting each class be judged by different methods when it comes to behavior leaves a major discrepancy in the system that administrators can easily fix.

“[The citizenship grades] are not fair at all. You have to be perfect in class to get an ‘O’,” said Bonilla.

(184 students)

6 COMMUNITY February 14, 2013Parkway North High School

Brianne Lewis

Staff Writer

Jo Treadway

Design Editor

PNH Eagle Scouts Strive to Achieve Excellence

FCCLA Gives Handmade Creations to Different Causes

Junior Gabe Sander built purple sheds outside the North High tennis courts for his community service project that qualified him to become an Eagle Scout.

From dog toys to baby blankets, Park-way North’s FCCLA has worked throughout the year to cater school events as well as cre-ate fun donations for several organizations.

Family, Career, and Community Lead-ers of America (FCCLA) is a nonprofit career and technical student organization for stu-dents in Family and Consumer Science edu-cation in public and private schools through grade twelve.

“[FCCLA] is a club within the FACS de-partment. We do a lot of community service and cater to several events at Parkway North throughout the year,” said club sponsor Kara Sussman.

At Parkway North, students involved in the FACS department who have joined FCCLA have worked to create donations for different organizations and have helped cater events at the school so far this year.

“[This year], we have made dog toys which we took over to the humane society and baby blankets which we took to the Cri-sis Nursery,” said Sussman. “We also cater for department chairs for team leader meet-ings.”

FCCLA meets periodically throughout the year to discuss what they want to do and how they want to help better the community. The students enjoy practical arts and look for community service opportunities

“[Students who would enjoy FCCLA]

are those who like to sew, those who like to cook, and those who are interested in com-munity service,” said Sussman. “We make and create things for other people.”

At each meeting, the students who are a part of FCCLA discuss what it is they would like to do and which causes they want to help.

After contacting the organization, the students will get together and make whatever it is that the organization has asked for.

“[At the meetings], we will plan what we want to do next and what we want to get involved in. Overall, [the organizations] are grateful to accept any donation,” said Suss-man. “We usually just ship the donations to them once we finish making them.”

Students involved in FCCLA work to-wards helping the community, but members can also learn many skills such as cooking and sewing that will be useful in future.

There are also several scholarships available to students involved in FCCLA, which award from $400 to $2,000 to eligible members of FCCLA.

FCCLA meetings are typically sched-uled based on what is going on at school and how often the students wish to meet as a group.

Students who enjoy cooking, sewing, or other practical arts and wish to get in-volved in community service can join FCCLA and make creations that will benefit several people within the community, and even have the chance to receive financial aid for their involvement.

Senior Alex Herr became involved with

Two puppies fall asleep together in their kennels at the Humane Society. Parkway North’s FC-CLA donated several dog toys to the Humane Society of St. Louis, MO earlier this year.

Responsibility. Leadership. Communi-cation skills. Kindness. These are just some characteristics that a boy scout has to illus-trate to earn the title of Eagle Scout.

At Parkway North, several students possess these qualities. Being in extra-cur-ricular activities and sports along with a full load of classes presents a hard balance. How-ever, a few students are able to balance all of this and go a step further by being involved with Boy Scouts, a program that teaches les-sons about balancing time and responsibility.

In 2011, 51,473 earned the rank of Eagle Scout. The ranking progresses from Tender-foot, Second Class, First Class, Star, Life, and finally Eagle Scout.

“While being an athlete, it was hard [to continue with boy scouts]. I had to learn how to balance my time” said Latin teacher David Finkelstein, an Eagle Scout.

Many Eagle Scouts joined Boy Scouts at a very young age because of friends and fam-ily members in Boy Scouts.

“I joined Boy Scouts because my dad was a Boy Scout so my parents signed me up,” said senior and Eagle Scout Danny Frei-berger.

Being in Boy Scouts provides an intro-duction to friends that can last for a lifetime.

“I started [Boy Scouts] when I was in kindergarten. My buddies did it so decided to do it,” said junior Gabe Sander, who is work-ing on his project to become an Eagle Scout.

To receive the highest rank of Eagle, a Boy Scout has to receive 21 merit badges,

uphold a leadership position for six months, do a board of review, as well as complete a service project that helps out the community.

“My project was to plan and organize a community garden with friends and family,” said Finkelstein.

Sander led a project that included plan-ning and building the purple sheds outside the tennis courts at Parkway North. Frei-berger’s project benefitted the Stray Rescue Project that helps local pets in need.

“Being an Eagle Scout has taught me

about time management and goal setting,” said Finkelstein.

Being an Eagle Scout means a person has to be committed to the Boy Scouts pro-gram and has to be determined to reach its highest position.

Eagle Scout is the highest advancement rank in Boy Scouts, and the average age to achieve the rank is 17 years old. From 1912 to 2011, approximately two million Boy Scouts earned the Eagle Scout rank.

“Being in Boy Scouts has also taught me responsibility and leadership skills to be a better person,” said Freiberger.

As high school students prepare their college applications, many colleges are look-ing for students who are committed to a cer-tain activity that takes commitment and re-sponsibility.

Many Eagle Scouts are getting scholar-ships and being accepted to colleges because of being in Boy Scouts for so long. Only 5% of Boy Scouts become an Eagle Scout.

“High School students should abso-lutely stay in Boy Scouts during high school. I truly think that many colleges accepted me because I was an Eagle Scout,” said Finkel-stein.

For many high school students, finding an activity that is actually enjoyable is a chal-lenge. Eagle Scouts always have something to do.

Being an Eagle Scout is one of the big-gest accomplishment that any high school student can achieve. Eagle Scouts see Boy Scouts as a way to challenge themselves.

The rank of an Eagle Scout stands for leadership, responsibility, helping of others and much more.

Photo by Jo Treadw

ay

Photo by Brianne Lewis

“[Students who would enjoy FCCLA] are thosewho like to sew, those who like to cook, and who are interested in community service.”

his passions while helping others simultane-ously.

“[I joined the FCCLA] because it of-fers progress and activities that relate to culinary arts, [which] is a passion of mine,”

explained Herr as he looked back. “The catering department had a meeting once a month, and competed in a national compe-tition. It is a great program to explore the world of culinary arts.”

When a person thinks of Valentine’s Day, things such as hearts, flowers, roses, chocolates, and teddy bears come to mind. But for the staff and parents at Parkway North, school will take the place of Valen-tine’s Day traditions.

While other couples are out on a date, the Parkway North High faculty and parents will be at school for parent-teacher confer-ences from 3:00 p.m. until 8;00 p.m. in the gym and lower commons.

“I really haven’t thought about how I feel about parent teacher conferences on Valentine’s Day, but it was the only day that made sense,” said junior principal Dr. Rob Gaugh.

Valentine’s Day is a day when people show other people love and appreciation. However, many teachers and parents will have to schedule their special day for another time.

“My family and I will probably do some-thing later, either on the following weekend or on Friday or Saturday,” said sophomore principal Dr. Rhonda Page.

Although the day of the parent teacher conference may not be the perfect date, the date seems to be the most acceptable date for the event.

“There probably could have been an-other day for the parent teacher conferences, but it would have been later on in the semes-

ter, and it probably wouldn’t have served the students well,” said Gaugh.

The sooner the date is in the semester, the quicker parents and teachers can inter-vene and help students succeed.

Some of the teachers seem to not have

Parent-Teacher Conferences Influence Valentine’s Day PlansJamie PowellCommunity Editor

Couples enjoy quality time with each other at various locations every day, but Valentine’s Day has traditionally been a special day to spend time with significant others. However, plans for this year will have to be adjusted for many teachers and parents at Parkway North.

7February 14, 2013Parkway North High School Features

a problem with the date of parent-teacher conference and don’t find it that big of a deal. They show their appreciate for others on a daily basis instead of waiting for one pre-scribed day.

“Valentine’s Day isn’t that important to

adults , so I wouldn’t reschedule,” said fresh-men principal Greg Wagener.

Parkway North students also voiced their opinions on the conferences even though they don’t attend parent-teacher con-ferences.

“I don’t think that’s a very appropriate date for the event. A lot of people have other things to do on that date than attend a par-ent teacher conference,” said junior Haley Neeter.

Because of the date of conferences, some parents may decide to not come to con-ferences.

“If I were a parent, I most likely wouldn’t come. I would want to be with my husband,” said junior Raven Jackson.

Other people see the conflicting events differently. Valentine’s Day comes once a year, but a student’s success at school affects the rest of their life.

“When something involves your kids success, you have to make it a priority even if it’s on a holiday. If you love your children so much, you should see their success and show your love and appreciation, and the day that it’s on shouldn’t be ignored,” said officer Ezra White, parent of two alumni.

Also, parents don’t have to be at parent-teacher conferences the entire time so they can still make plans for the rest of the night.

“You could still spend time with your wife and kids,” said White.

Parent teacher conferences might change Valentine’s Day plans, but won’t change how people feel about one another.

Photo by Jamie Pow

ell

CenterspreadNorsestar8 Parkway North High School

February 14, 2013February 14, 2013Parkway North High School 9

The sound of metal clashing against metal. A lunge toward the opponent in hopes of stabbing him in the chest. Cries of “En garde!” Swords glinting in the light. This may sound like a medieval duel, but it is actually a modern version of sword fighting: fencing. Sophomore Douglas Fritz competed in fencing competitions in middle school and continues to practice on his own.

“I was always interested in sword fighting. I guess it was because of The Princess Bride. It’s one of the best real sword fighting scenes on film,” said Fritz. “Some people in my family, like my uncle, fenced in high school, so they used to talk about it all the time.”

Fencing is a sport that builds strength and agility and comes with years of training focused on building muscle and having quick feet. While it is physically challenging, it is considered a lifetime sport people can practice at any age.

“There is a 76-year-old guy I used to know that fenced and he was always learning. That’s what’s so great about fencing as a whole. You never get too old for it,” said Fritz. “It’s physically demanding, but it doesn’t destroy your body. The older you get, the more you learn.”

Fencing and sword fighting have been around since Greek gladiators. The swords were changed and refined as the years went on, and so was the armor. Once armor got strong enough to not be damaged by a heavy, thick sword, the thin swords of fencing came about.

“It made more sense if you could get a l i t t l e tiny point up into the cracks of the

armor into those seams t h a t lined up into the a r m o r , and you were able to make the person bleed to death inside their armor,” said Fritz.

Despite its bloody past, fencing is a very safe sport today, when the correct equipment is used. The equipment used in fencing is as unique as the sport itself.

“Equipment is by far the most identifiable part of fencing because when you think of fencing, you don’t thing of mental chess, you think of the foils, which are the long swords,” said Fritz.

There are three kinds of all-metal swords used in fencing: foil, sabre, and épée (pronounced epay). A mesh mask protects the player’s face and head. The clothes are usually white and strong, to protect from the point of the foil. The most unique characteristic of the clothes are the seams. None of the seams can line up with each other.

“If you wear a t-shirt, the seam on your arm will line up with the seam on your sweatshirt. But none of the seams can line up because if the foil hits that seam, it creates a weak point that could open that seam, then open the one under it and go straight through you. So all of the seams have to overlap with each other so there are no weak points in

What do you do to stay fit out-side of school?

“I go hiking,” said freshman Xavier Philips.

“I take walks with my dog,” said sophomore Jordan Boone.

“I do a lot of cardio,” said junior Morgan Taylor.

“I concentrate on a lot of cardio and heavy strength training,” said school resource officer Ezra White.

“I work out at the JCC, where I lift weights. I also play ice hockey,” said senior Mark Finkelstein.

your armor, which is really cool,” said Fritz.One of the main factors in fencing is

a competitor’s mental process. In fencing, keeping a clear mind is very important.

“The whole point is nothing going through your mind. You have to keep your mind clear, or at least as controlled as possible...because while you’re thinking about that, the other person is thinking about putting a touch on you. So you can’t think about much of anything. You just have to focus on what you’re doing,” Fritz explained.

Some compare the mental part of fencing to chess. It is formulaic and requires strategy and quick thinking.

“It’s just like chess. All the moves are exactly the same, like you can only move a pawn one space forward every time, but you can combine those moves together to make a brilliant game. Mentally, you have to be thinking like a chess player. ‘What’s his move going to be when I do this? If I go here, what way is he going to come at me?’ And then you have to do it with a physical way because you have to every move is formulaic,” said Fritz.

Another thing that makes fencing stand out is the scoring system. Every time a fencer touches an opponent with the foil, the fencer gets a point. To e n s u r e t h a t s c o r i n g is honest a n d accurate, p o i n t s a r e

m e a s u r e d electronically.

Players have a belt around their waist that counts the points. The gear has metal throughout it.

“ W h e n you touch the other person, his or her suit has parts that are metal and that will conduct e l e c t r i c i t y through the belt the other way so the computer knows that was a touch,” said Fritz.

So while fencing has roots

in the past, parts are new and

m o d e r n . “There’s so much more that you could learn if you wanted to learn more,” said Fritz.

There was a time when most people learned how to ride a horse. But, these days, it’s become a pastime for some and a profession for few. At Parkway North, two students, freshmen Samantha Campbell and Katherine Horstmann, ride horses for a sport.

“[Horseback riding is] not for everyone because normally milder people, who aren’t as [aggressive], don’t mix well with the horses who will take advantage of you if they can, and if you’re not really assertive, it’s not really for you. However, it has a lot of good things come from it,” said Campbell.

Dr. Karen LaFever, who used to ride horses, agrees that it takes a special person to ride a horse.

“Once you understand horses, [they’re] very sweet, very easy to get along with, and it’s a very peaceful way to go through the woods. To me, it’s easier than walking ten miles; I’d rather horseback ride,” said LaFever.

Campbell has been riding horses for seven years. Like any sport, it requires commitment, and she practices weekly in jumping (where a horse is led over obstacles, such as hurdles) or other activities.

“The [competitions] that I probably go to the most often are about a half hour away at the National Equestrian Center in Lake St. Louis. They last a couple of days,” said Campbell.

Horstmann has been riding for over five years and participates in competitions at the National Equestrian Center like Campbell.

“I really liked the sport. I liked bonding with the animals. Then, I started taking lessons in horseback riding and gymnastics. Then, it got in the way so I quit gymnastics, and I just did horseback riding,” Horstmann said.

On Feb. 3, Horstmann won first place for her jumping event at the National Equestrian Center. She described what it was like during competitions.

“It’s a real adrenaline rush with jumper [the event] because you’re trying to get the fastest time but also keep a steady course. Once you complete it, it’s nice to know that you did it. With hunter [the event], you’ve got to be perfect,” said Horstmann.

Cultivating the relationship between a horse and a rider is one of the most important parts of the sport.

“It’s just a lot to think about in horseback riding because you’re riding an animal that has a whole different mind than you,” said Horstmann.

Horstmann spends time outside of the arena, bonding with her animals, at both the stables at Krauss Farms and on her own farm in Owensville, MO. Her horse, Encore, who is a small thoroughbred, enjoys the time away from the competitions too.

“It’s nice to take [the horses] out there. It’s a break for me and it’s a break for them too,” said Horstmann.

Both Campbell and Horstmann plan to continue the sport after high school and hopefully into Olympic levels.

When imagining the activities taking place on a Saturday morning in the life of a high school student, sleeping or lounging around home seem to be the common choices. This is not the case for senior Kendra Rowey.

Rowey participates in a bowling league at the Brunswick Zone in Creve Coeur every Saturday morning, improving her individual skills and visiting with other competitors from various schools.

“There are people from districts like Pattonville and Francis Howell,” Rowey explained. “We can choose our teams, and I am on a team of four people.”

One aspect that sets this activity apart is the fact that there are no other students from Parkway North involved.

“It is nice that there is not anyone from Parkway North because it is good to have friends outside of school and to have this as an outlet,” Rowey said.

Bowling has been a part of Rowey’s life for as long as she can remember. Since being introduced to the sport, she has been competing against the top bowlers of her age group in the Saint Louis area.

“My mom used to bowl so I started bowling when I was six,” said Rowey. “I began bowling with [Christina Wesley], and we were on the same team. Then, she joined marching band so she stopped bowling, but I continued.”

Although most of the competitions are against local students, the top bowlers receive the opportunity to play for a travel team that contends at various locations throughout the Midwest region.

“Within your league center, you can bowl in a travel league and win trophies,” Rowey said. “There are tournaments involved, and you can earn scholarships from that.”

Rowey has been finding success and improvement in her bowling ability.

“There is a Gateway Tournament within the travel league, and I got $75 for second place,” said Rowey. “This was two days of bowling and a total of 26 games.”

This sport has become a way for Rowey to meet new people while striving for the positive development of her bowling skills. She was named the 2011 Missouri State Female Bowler of the Year and shares her experiences with students at North.

“I have bowled before, not competitively but just for fun. I enjoy it,” said senior James Irwin. “I think it’s a great game because all ages can play it.”

Rowey has found her niche in the bowling community. Many people do not think of bowling as a competitive sport; however, her league is competitive for all of the students involved.

“Bowling combines individual and team, and it is just about improvement. You have to pay attention to every ball you throw,” said Rowey. “It is an internal battle, but you have to make sure you are there for the team.”

Not your typical ballgame:Students participate, have fun, learn in unique sports outside of school

Samantha Campbell, Katie Horstmann:Horseback Riding

Jonathan Herzog

Staff Writer

Molly Thal

Centerspread Editor Kevin Graeler

Co-Editor-in-Chief

Douglas Fritz: Fencing

Kendra Rowey:Bowling

Richard Reynolds

Sports Editor

Photo Courtesy of D

ouglas Fritz

Photo by Jonathan Herzog

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10 Features February 14, 2013Parkway North High School

Parkway North is always trying to create diverse and interesting classes to meet students’ desires for specific and advanced material. For this coming school year, the teachers and administration have worked out ideas for these new courses.

Some of these new classes offered are advanced versions of the ESOL classes, which are designed for students who speak English as a second language. Jill Morey, who instructs all four grade levels of ESOL, designed these classes for students who are more proficient with English.

“The ESOL class focuses on several things that students need specifically here. Part of that is growing up bilingual, and many, many of our students at North are bilingual,” said Morey.

Advanced ESOL students have different needs than students who need beginning ESOL students.

“The students that we have are all advanced speakers; many of them have

either been here for a couple years in the U.S. or they were born and raised here and then for various reasons have some academic gaps and need some support,” said Morey.

Another class starting due to student interest is Biotechnical Engineering, which is being taught in North’s tech department.

“Parkway West piloted this ship: the biotech course,” said Brad Ziegler, who plans to instruct the class next year. “So, when it came time for us to start looking at the course guide for this year, because it was already on the books in the district, it was something we could offer. Based on what students were asking about and inquiring about, we figured we would go ahead and list it and see where the demand got us.”

As Ziegler said, it was student interest both at West and North that made this class possible. One student who got involved was junior Cody Mayse.

“I want to sign up for [Biotechnology] because that’s kind of what I want to do. There really isn’t a biotech course offered like we have here...if that’s something I want to major in, then I really need a good support system and a good teacher to teach me. Since ,

New Classes Provide More Options for Students

Brandon Fredman

Online Coordinator & Opinions Editor

Jonathan Herzog

Staff Writer

Peer Teaching, a selected group of safe and drug free juniors and seniors, visit Parkway Northeast Middle School 7th graders every February. In the past, the Peer Teachers talked to 7th graders about character development. However, this year the curriculum changed. Since teenage drinking has become more prevalent, the Peer Teachers now talk about the dangers of alcohol.

“[Alcohol among teenagers] is a real problem,” said social studies teacher Scott Moeller, who is a co-sponsor of the program. “It is a very risky behavior, and it is a problem that is affecting our community.”

While this new curriculum will teach 7th graders not to do alcohol, this program will also teach 7th graders how to problem solve if they are in a bad situation.

“It seems like in the past, [the Peer Teaching curriculum] focused on just being safe and drug free. However, that is the law,” said English teacher Dave Beck, co-sponsor of Peer Teaching. “Now we are taking this a step further, and we will focus on problem solving and being a positive influence.”

Parkway has several safe and drug free programs for high school students to get involved in. For freshmen, there is S.T.A.R.S. which focuses on building leadership. For sophomores, there is High School Heroes, where students apply the leadership skills learned their freshman year, and goes to 6th grade classes to discuss the dangers of tobacco. For upper classmen, there is Peer Teaching which now focuses on anti-alcohol. However, the main similarity between all three groups is that every participant advocates for safe and drug free activities.

“Our Peer Teachers stand for people who want to be a voice for making good choices and prevent alcohol abuse,” said health teacher Jody Chambers, co-sponsor.

Peer Teaching is the longest running program in Parkway. However, as times change, so does this program.

“[The curriculum change] is an adaptation to new information,” said Moeller. “Through information collected through surveys, we have found alcohol has become an evident problem. Binge drinking,

I knew that it was at West, all I wanted to do was bring it over. So, I had to talk to a lot of kids and tried to get a lot to sign up,” Mayse said.

Ziegler also plans to instruct Computer Science and Software Engineering, yet another new course for the 2013-2014 school year.

“Project Lead the Way, which is our engineering curriculum that we offer down here, is bringing a new course into their program. When the opportunity came up for us to possibly be part of the pilot, I volunteered because, in my mind, we need more kids going into computer science and I.T., and this gives us a course that, frankly, even freshmen of a certain caliber can take,” Ziegler said.

All of these classes are meant to make North students’ high school experiences better. For those that need assistance, courses are available. For those that really want focus on a particular subject, those courses are available too. Most importantly, Parkway North teachers and students are always willing to try new things, which will always lead to new, unique courses.

underage drinking, and drunk driving needs to be addressed.”

The reason drinking has become more of a problem is still being studied. However, the media is not helping.

“The media makes drinking look fine,” said Chambers. “More people are tuned into the media now than ever before.”

Another reason drinking is becoming more of a problem among teens is because teens are being exposed to more adult situations.

“Kids are growing up way too fast,” said Beck. “They are introduced to adult behaviors and adult situations too soon.”

The reality is that underage drinking is not fine. Peer Teachers are an army of students who are trying to express that to their peers and to younger students.

“The term peer pressure often has a negative connotation,” said Beck. “These programs turn that around by teaching kids to be healthy and safe through positive peer pressure.”

For some students, it is easy to stay safe and drug free. For others, it is easier said than done.

“The word is choice,” said Moeller. “We are making choices all the time. We are choose who we hang with, what you do, who you are, etcetera. You don’t have to go with the crowd. You can stand on your own. You gain great self pride by standing on your own.”

Being a part of safe and drug free programs means you are surrounded by safe and drug free friends, which is why many students choose to be safe and drug free.

“[Peer Teaching] is a great program,” said Chambers. “Students who want to make an impact get involved with this program. This program influences you to make good choices.”

Students in Parkway’s safe and drug free programs are leaders who make safe and drug free choice. Together they form an army that lets people know there are a lot of people who do not do drugs.

“Too many kids drink and do drugs because they think everybody is doing it, when in fact, the majority are not,” said Parkway North safe and drug free leader Julie McMullen. “The bigger we can make our safe and drug free programs, the stronger influence we can have.”

On Friday Feb. 8, 2013, during Academic Lab, Safe and Drug Free leader Julie McMullen and Peer Teaching co-sponsor Dave Beck talked to the Peer Teachers about what to expect at Northeast Middle School on Feb. 12, 2013.

Photo by Brandon Fred

man

Peer Teachers Encourage Good Habits for Students

High School ESOL Levels 3 & 4This course was designed for students with excelled proficiency, with emphasis on advanced read-ing, writing, and speaking.

Biotechnical EngineeringThis course will teach students to apply biological and engineering concepts to living systems.

Computer Science and Software EngineeringThis course is designed to intro-duce students to the central ideas of computing and computer sci-ence.

Curriculum changes to focus on the dangers of teenage drinking

11Features

Independent Studies Help Students AdvanceIan Brown

News Editor

Independent studies are one of the few opportunities for seniors at Parkway North to study a specific topic they are interested in to a deeper extent. For an independent study, the student must have a faculty sponsor and the research must be approved by other faculty members involved with the topic.

Senior Shrey Patel has been doing some interesting work in the economics field and even has some of his own money invested in the stock market.

“I am studying the most effective way to trade in the stock market,” said Patel, who is working with social studies teacher Bill Vogt on his independent study.

Patel already has extensive knowledge and interest in economics due to classes he previously took at North.

“I have an avid interest in financial systems, and Mr. Vogt’s class helped me greatly build my skills,” said Patel.

Patel is using this opportunity to help him prepare for his future.

“I plan to major in corporate finance, and one of the biggest aspects to understand in that field is risk. Having my own money in the stock market helps me manage that risk. In this study, I am gaining experience that is vital to what I plan to do in the future,” said Patel.

Senior Brian Hagerty has been exploring his artistic talents through his independent study with art teacher Tom Waggle.

“I am currently creating a sculpture out

of clay, and in the future, I will be creating a cubist style portrait,” said Hagerty.

Brian is also in +AP studio taught by art teacher Grant Kniffen. This is why he decided to look into an independent study.

“The actual class to create this sculpture did not fit in my schedule so I did an independent study,” said Hagerty

Waggle works with Brian on several aspects of art but also lets him explore by himself.

“Mr. Waggle does a great job to help me improve my artistic technique,” said Hagerty.

Senior Ethan Lang has been taking his interest in history to the next level through his independent study with social studies teacher Scott Nilsen.

“I am writing a paper on the battle of Lexington and Concord,” said Lang.

Lang’s college ambitions were the main reason he decided on this study.

“I chose this because I am going to major in history in college, which requires a lot of writing, so this was a great opportunity to work on writing techniques and get ahead of the game for college,” said Lang.

For Lang, being able to do research things that he is interested in is what drove him to begin his study.

“It is rare in high school that you get to do actual research and that intrigued me,”

said Lang.Senior Jonathan Kim has been working

with Russell Barton to study ecosystems. “My independent study is analyzing

and researching Missouri ecosystems,” said Kim.

Kim became interested in ecosystems from participating in Envirothon, a competition where students compete to show their knowledge on the topics of soils, aquatics, wildlife, and forestry: “Since Envirothon, I found that I enjoyed ecosystems which opened the door for me to want to learn more about ecosystems,” said Kim.

Barton plays a key part in Kim’s independent study because information on this topic is limited.

“There’s limited availability of research sources, so my supervisor provides me with texts to pursue my research. He also explains a lot of the material to me,” said Kim.

Ryan Tierney’s historical interests drove him to take on an independent study in the first semester of his senior year.

“I study ancient military leaders with focus on their military tactics and personal life,” said Tierney.

Tierney’s interests were sparked through his history classes at North.

“This is something I have always been interested in, but we never went very far in depth with them in history class, so [an independent study] was the perfect way to really indulge myself on the subject matter,” said Tierney.

Tierney’s study was very structured and his supervisor, history teacher Joni Patton, was a great help during the process.

“Mrs. Patton gives me deadlines as well as helps me expand on the information I have already done research on,” said Ryan.

Senior Genevieve Hampton has been looking to improve and explore her talents in the arts with an independent study guided by art teacher Clint Johnson.

“This is my second independent study with Mr. Johnson, and I learned a lot from my photo classes which led me to want to keep growing as a photographer,” said Hampton.

Hampton has been focusing on creativity and artistic expression through her photographs.

“I don’t have any guidelines, so I can experiment and try anything I want,” said Hampton.

Another reason Genevieve gave as to why she took her independent study is because of the benefits it will give her in the future even if she doesn’t plan on majoring in photography.

Senior Ethan Lang writes a paper on the Battle of Lexington and Concord during his independent study.

Ryan Tierney studies with his advisor, social studies teacher Joni Patton, during academic lab. Patton’s teaching helps Tierney expand his knowledge in the area of history.

Photos by Ian Brown

Senior Genevieve Hampton works to improve her art skills through her independent studies.

“I am hoping to [pursue] photography in college,” Hampton said. “I hope for it to always be a part of my life.”

Hampton gives a lot of credit to her supervisor for her growth in the field of photography.

“Johnson is not only a wonderful teacher, he has been a mentor to me through high school. My work has been very therapeutic. He has helped me not only improve my work, but has guided me to become a better artist,” Hampton said. ”It is a thought process I go through before I begin a new project.”

Independent studies are available when other classes can’t accommodate their needs and interests.

Senior Brian Hagerty, who uses his indepen-dent studies to advance his artistic tech-nique, created a sculpture of a human face.

February 14, 2013Parkway North High School

February 14, 2013Parkway North High School12 Entertainment

Spring TV Brings Round of Drama, Mystery, ThrillGianna SparksFeatures Editor

Emily McCarter

Editor-in-Chief

The crowd roars as the lights come on. The stage is equipped with a drum set, amps, speakers, and of course microphones. This scene is the sight of one of the many shows that senior Jason Thompson’s band Gor-mogon has played. The band’s next show will be March 30 at Fubar. “We’ve played over 30 shows in the last two years. We play every month or every two months,” said Jason Thompson. Jason Thompson started the band in the summer of 2011 after attending Dave Si-mon’s Rock School, where he met their lead guitar player Cole Sandel who goes to Clay-

Do No Harm Replacing the popular comedy 30 Rock, NBC takes a detour from their line-up of comedy shows with their new drama Do No Harm. Do No Harm introduces Dr. Jason Cole (Steven Pasquale), an accomplished sur-geon, who turns into his alter ego Ian Price at 8:25 every night. For years, Cole has been controlling Price with a concoction of drugs. But lately, Price has developed immunity to the medicine and sets out to get revenge on Cole. “It’s the type of show that can carry through [because] you can do a lot with the plot” said sophomore Imran Chaudhry.

Locasto goes undercover, she becomes more and more convinced that Vivian was murdered by a family member because she knew a secret that could ruin her father’s drug company.

The plot, although interesting, is not very original. Additionally, the show attempts to use flashbacks to convey the history of both Joanna’s and Vivian’s life before the murder. The flashbacks are badly placed at times and make the show seem choppy.

Deception did have some good action, and was entertaining. However, the lack of originality and poor editing contributed to its rating. It airs Monday at 9 p.m.

ton High School. “We both started getting into the music. Then I met Noah [Ockner] at summer camp. We made a band—but it soon failed—so then we founded this band. We are all into the same music and wanted to start a St. Louis band,” said Jason Thompson. The band members consist of Thomp-son (Parkway North), the vocalist; Noah Ockner (Parkway Central), rhythm guitar; Max Sandza (Chaminade), drums; Cole San-del (Clayton High School), lead guitar; and Zach Fendelman (Clayton High School), Bass player and vocals. The band plays mostly Metal/Progressive Death Metal music. “We’ve all been in bands in the past but we wanted something serious and to work hard at,” Jason Thompson said. Although being in a band may seem like all fun and games, a lot of hard work goes into Gormogon’s concerts. “We practice about once a week, and twice a week before shows. Practice ranges from three to six hours,” said Jason Thomp-son. Even though the band started up only two years ago, they have developed a large following of fans. “For the two years or so that they’ve been playing, the crowds keep growing and their payday keeps increasing,” said Jeffrey Thompson, Jason’s father. This out of school activity is not just

for entertainment. Many valuable life les-sons about business management have been learned through this experience. “The way [Jason] has learned to net-work with the various venue managers plus manage the finances of the band will really give him a leg up compared to the other freshmen [in college] who will only be learn-ing the theories of business management,” said Jeffrey Thompson. Aside from business skills learned, the band has attracted a big enough following to be considered for multiple tours with well-known bands and has also acquired many sponsors. “We have our own photographer, and we have a few endorsers such as Silver Fox Drum Sticks, URSA Clothing, and I will be endorsed by Vans Shoes for advertising. This summer, we are touring in the Midwest with the band Apparations, It Lies Within, and Words Like Daggers. We also might play at Warped Tour this summer, which is very ex-citing,” said Jason Thompson. No matter how good a band can play, the only thing that will get them famous is their fans. “Many other people [and I] love their band a lot. We go to all their shows and hangout with them a lot,” said senior Wyatt Blevins. “[The band] interacts really well with the crowd. The shows are great—everyone gets into it and dances and moves around.”

The band’s digital release album comes out on Feb. 15. It, along with their other songs, will be sold on their website and at bandcamp.com. “I think as long as they keep doing what they’re doing, they will get very far,” said Blevins.

Gormogon lead singer and Parkway North senior, Jason Thompson, sings at Cicero’s on December 30th, 2012 in their first main head-line show for the “Post Apocalypse Show”.

North’s Jason Thompson Leads Band

A look at what television shows to watch, avoid this Spring

In early January, NBC premiered a new mystery-drama, that follows the murder of one of New York’s richest citizens, Vivian Bowers. Deception stars Meagan Good as an undercover detective Joanna Locasto, as she attempts to unravel the murder of Vivian, her former best friend. As Locasto investigates the murder, she bigins to discover secrets powerful enough to bring the family down.

“The action is really good, and the [story line] is slower so it keeps you interested,” said freshman Carlie Manczuk.

The show begins with Vivian Bower’s body being found in a hotel room with a visible bruise on her cheek. Although the death is at first ruled as a suicide, once

Four Stars

The show is a good mix of drama and suspense with a solid plotline that leaves viewers anticipating what will happen next. Do No Harm is very simular to the book The Curious Case of Dr. Jeckyll and Mr Hyde, and would appeal to people who enjoyed the book. The contrast between Cole and Price is very distinct and Pasquale plays them both very well. The going back and forth between characters gets a little old, but all in all Do No Harm stands out as a strong show. Do No Harm airs on Thurs-days at 9 p.m. centrral time on NBC.

Two Stars

Three Stars

What if all of the serial killers in the United States were united under one leader? Fox tries to answer this question with a psy-chological thriller starring Kevin Bacon.

The show starts when Carroll, who be-lieves in the insanity of art like Edgar Allen Poe, escapes from prison after being charged with the murder of 14 girls. As the FBI, in-cluding Ryan Hardy, played by Bacon begins the hunt for Carroll, Ryan Hardy is called in

because he was the only person to suspect and catch Carroll. As the group begins to as-sess the situation, it becomes clear that Car-roll has set up a network of murderers that will follow Carroll’s every command.

“Its like your inside the head of Edgar Allen Poe,” said freshman Evan Pierce.

The Following has a creative premise and does give insight into the mind of a serial killer. However, it is also the kind of show that makes you want to leave your lights on at night. The Following has the potential to become a weekly tradition for audiences ev-erywhere. It airs Monday at 8:00 p.m. cen-tral time on Fox.

Four Stars

This Cold War drama stars Keri Rus-sell and Matthew Rhys, who play undercover Russian Intelligence agents Elizabeth and Phillip Jennings that have been trained to impersonate American citizens and perfectly blend in to their society. On the outside, the Jennings appear to be a normal family, two parents with two happy kids. But in reality, Mr. and Mrs. Jen-nings are hiding their true identity as under-cover Russian spies, sent to the U.S. to gather intelligence for the Soviet Union. Their lives become more complicated when a FBI agent

moves into the house down the street, lead-ing them to question whether or not this is just a coincidence, or if their cover is truly blown. “I would say it has an interesting premise, and it’s almost reigniting the Cold War,” said debate teacher Mike Hazelton. At first, The Americans might seem like a letdown because everyone knows who won the Cold War, but the premise works well for the show and creates a lot of sus-pense. The Americans airs Wednesdays on FX at 9 p.m.

Four StarsFour Stars

Jason Thompson stands alongside band mates Noah Ockner, Max Sandza, Cole San-del, and Zach Fendelman.

Photo provided by Jason Thompson

Photo provided by Jason Thompson

13February 14, 2013Parkway North High School Entertainment

“YOU’RE A GOOD MAN, CHARLIE BROWN!”

Jordyn Weare

Staff Writer

The Parkway North Theater depart-ment will perform the musical You’re a Good Man Charlie Brown, which is based on the comic strip Peanuts, Feb. 21-23.

“[The production] is going well. We’re always very productive. We are actually ahead of schedule,” said senior Quentin Cockerham, who works with the tech crew.

While the tech crew is working on cre-ating specific items for the set, the cast is working on perfecting their dancing, singing, and memorizing lines. Unlike most produc-tions, the lines for the Charlie Brown musical are more light-hearted and simple.

“We have some extremely talented new freshmen who are great dancers and singers. Everyone in the cast has been learning the dances quickly, which makes my job easier because it leaves more time to tweak things. They love to laugh and smile which makes the job fun and relaxing,” said senior Aimee Dion, who is the co-choreographer for the musical.

Although the show is running smoothly so far, there are always some complications when trying to put on a musical production.

Sometimes it is harder for students who have leadership roles to convey their goals to the cast because they have less experience than teachers.

“The only issue I ran into was learning how to communicate exactly what I wanted to everyone in a clear way that they could understand, but, like I said, everyone is great and patient so we have always been able to work through everything,” said Dion.

Cast members agree that the musical is hard work, but rewarding. Most members of the show have been active in North’s theater department for all four years of high school at Parkway North.

“The cast, as a collective whole, is pro-gressing very nicely with memorizing lines, choreography, and blocking, though there is still work to be done,” said senior Stephan Griffin, who will be playing a lead role of Snoopy in the musical.

Cast members have already taken a lik-ing to certain songs or scenes in the musi-cal. This musical is one that will bring back memories for those who grew up watching Charlie Brown television specials as well as reading the comic strip.

“My favorite song would have to be ‘My Blanket and Me,’ the dance has everyone with a blanket and it is super funny to see Cody

Parkway North Theater prepares for Winter Musical

The cast and crew of Parkway North’s production of You’re a Good Man Charlie Brown, (left-to-right) Bry’n Woods, Alex Morales-Goodlet, Cody Mayse, Sarah Koo, Stephen Griffin, Matilda Burch, and Claudia Montague, prepare for their opening performance on Thursday, Jan. 21 in North’s theatre at 7 p.m. The cast practiced several of their songs and arrangements for the performance, which will also show on Friday, Jan. 22 at 7 and Jan. 23, at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.

Photos by Ian Brow

n and Steven Chaffin

Mayse doing the tango with a blanket. I also really like the Valentine’s Day scene where everybody gets valentine’s except Charlie Brown. There is a tall mailbox and it makes me laugh to see Justin Atienza trying to look inside,” said senior Emily Goldman, the stage manager for the show.

Drama teacher Chad Little, and the di-rector of You’re a Good Man Charlie Brown, is excited for the musical because it differs so much from last semester’s production of The Musical Comedy Murders of the 1940’s.

“Last semester, we had a very realistic set with lots of detail. This semester there is some [set] building, but the overall feel is very flat and one dimensional. We are going for the feel of the Sunday Funny’s—big, bold colors, flat with not much detail, and very much like a cartoon,” said Little.

Tickets can be purchased at the door: $12 for adults, $10 for kids, and $8 for kids under the age of 8, or in the commons before the day of the show for $10 for adults. $8 for students and faculty, and $7 for children under 8. Show times are Thursday at 7 p.m., Friday at 7 p.m., and Saturday at 2 p.m.

“I cannot wait for them to see the Char-lie Brown comics come to life. I hope the adults that watch it also feel like a kid again,” said Goldman.

Freshman Bry’n Woods, freshman Alex Morales-Goodlet, junior Cody Mayse, and freshman Sarah Koo line up on stage to sing during a scene rehearsal.

Sports14 February 14, 2013Parkway North High School

Ashley Van Camp

Staff Writer

PRACTICE MAKES PERFECT: PARKWAY NORTH ATHLETES PREPARE FOR SPRING SPORTS

Spring sports are around the corner, and returning athletes trying out for track this spring are preparing for the upcoming season.

After breaking several records last year, including the four by two, the track team looks forward to this season with several new members.

“I feel as though I have a lot to prove as a new athlete at Parkway North. My goals for this track season are to make it as far as my body will take me and hopefully that would be state,” said senior El Boyd, who will be trying out for track this spring.

A new athlete may feel intimated during the first week of tryouts, but Boyd has already

set goals for himself. “My goal is to get my body back in

the shape like it was in the previous season and to truly enjoy the sport of running and jumping,” said Boyd.

Getting back in shape will be easy for those who have already begun their preparation for the season.

“I’m going to run and practice drills in preparation and try to eat healthier and stay hydrated,” said sophomore Dee Dee Meyer, who will play soccer this spring.

Leagues and clinics outside of school are another way athletes prepare for the season.

“I’m already training on my own, and I play for Metro Strikers, which is a select soccer team outside of school,” said sophomore Lauren Nitsch, who will be playing girls’ soccer this spring.

Jeff Kinney, head coach of the track team, addresses students about having a successful track season for the upcoming 2013 spring sports season.

Student athletes listen as Kinney talks to them about what it takes to have a great track season.

Photo by Zach Becker

Photo by Zach Becker

Although it takes talent to be good at a sport, ultimately hard work is the key to succeeding in anything.

“I’m hoping to make [the] varsity [soccer team] this year,” said Nitsch.

The first soccer game will be March 27 against Ladue High school at 5:30 p.m. at home.

“I’m looking forward to getting better at soccer and hanging out with people who I haven’t really talked too much since last season,” said Meyer. “I think that the team will do pretty well this year. We have some promising new players and good returning ones as well. The coaches are great. I really like them.”

Water polo has also begun practice for the upcoming season, with their first game on March 28 against Rockwood Summit High School.

“I’m looking forward to seeing all my friends and making new memories with them,” said senior Megan Peterson, who will play water polo this spring.

One would think that practices would be hard and not as fun as playing the game; however, Peterson likes practice since they help her improve her skills.

“My favorite thing about water polo would have to be the practices,” said Peterson.

This spring, the girls junior varsity lacrosse team will have a new coach, Sally Phelan, who has been coaching girls’ field hockey for the past three years.

“As a new coach, I hope to bring energy and enthusiasm to the program,” Phelan said. “I am looking forward to getting to work with and learn from Coach Barasch, whose years of coaching and being involved in the lacrosse program will definitely help me improve my skills as a coach.”

Although field hockey and lacrosse are similar sports to some people, coaching the two are very different.

“I think there will be many similarities to coaching lacrosse and field hockey, but one major difference that stands out is the size of the programs. Lacrosse has two teams and double the amount of girls as the field hockey program. I think it will be a challenge, yet a

lot of fun to be working with that amount of girl,” said Phelan.

Phelan played lacrosse in high school at Villa Duchesne and Oak Hill School.

“I am excited to see the girls from my field hockey team in a different element and also looking forward to meeting a whole new group of athletes. Lacrosse was one of my favorite sports in high school, so I am also thrilled to be involved with the sport again,” said Phelan.

Also, a returning player is coming back to manage girls lacrosse again this season.

“It’s nice that I don’t have to play, but I can still be part of the team,” said senior Stephanie Mazzoni, who will be managing girl’s lacrosse.

Managers have a lot to do, they don’t just sit back in watch as most people think.

“At practices I help out by making sure nets are prepared, I get to help run drills, and help the girls out if needed,” said Mazzoni.

Vikings all over North are working hard to prepare for their upcoming spring sports.

Athletes work very hard in the sports that they play. Often if they’re very good, it can pay off in the form of scholarships and grants. But athleticism is only half of it. In addition to playing a sport, an athletes has to keep up grades in school as well.

For some people, like Heather Lund-strom, picking a school to sign to wasn’t just about the school work. A lot went into her decision, like the atmosphere and the oppor-tunities for growth in her sport.

“[The University of Tennessee is] an up and coming school and just became coed. They’re really doing good this year, and I think I can add to that,” said Lundstrom, who will be swimming for the school.

Senior Johnathan Little, chose his col-lege based on what fit his personality and preferences.

“It was the best fit for me. They like to win, and [they have a] great family environ-ment,” said Little, who will be playing foot-ball.

Sometimes friends and family don’t agree with the college choice of the student, but in the case of Little, this was not the case. It was important to stay true to what he need-ed, and everyone agreed with his choice to attend Missouri Valley.

“I got a lot of love and support from ev-eryone and it was great to have everyone wish me luck in college,” said Little.

Dallas Richardson will be attending Lindenwood to play football, and Kara Mont-gomery will be attending Jefferson College to play softball

Aurora Wrancher

Features Editor

Four Athletes Sign For Collegiate Sports

Seniors Dallas Richardson and Jonathan Little are joined by their families during the signing ceremony in the upper gym on Feb. 6, 2013.

Seniors Jonathan Little, Dallas Richardson, Heather Lundstrom,

and Kara Montgomery will continue with their respective sports

February 14, 2013Parkway North High School Sports 15

Emily Ladig

News Editor

Katryn Dobkin

Staff Writer

Senior athletes will be celebrated dur-ing Senior Night on Feb. 15 before a basket-ball game against Webster Groves. Athletes giving their farewells include seniors who are involved in Cheerleading, Steppers, Vikettes, Boys Basketball, and Pep Band.

“Before the varsity game starts, we hold a ceremony to honor the athletes where we mention their future plans and their parents’ names,” said Athletic Director Kris Kellams. “They will also receive a flower.”

Each pep squad will give a performance prior to the start of the game to signify their last time participating in the activity.

“As cheerleaders, we come up with an original routine that represents what we have learned through our four years of the sport,” said senior Lily Butterbrodt. “It’s kind of our farewell, so we make it the best we can, and we usually throw some funny stuff in there, too.”

Senior cheerleaders include traditions that have been passed down from previous years in their performances.

“Only seniors perform, and we all wear t-shirts of the colleges we will be attending,” said Butterbrodt. “Also, our parents walk us out onto the court for a ceremony, and the junior cheerleaders typically give the seniors a gift.”

As for the Vikettes, the same amount of time and preparation is put into making a perfect Senior Night routine.

“We take parts of our favorite dances from all four years and put them into one, and each senior wears one of our old uniforms,”

said senior Emma Guller. “Preparing is cool because Senior Night is the first time the rest of our squad will see our performance.”

Additionally, the Steppers will perform an original routine on Senior Night.

“Last year, we included everyone on the squad by doing a step together, and then we honored the seniors by letting them have their own step during our routine,” said se-nior Jonathan Brown. “It definitely takes more preparation than just a regular Friday night routine because we have to make up something completely new.”

“Each of us are thinking about wearing a different old uniform because there’s some stuff that would be fun to bring back,” said Brown.

The array of outfits might include “Kidstrong” t-shirts, purple jumpsuits, and matching tennis shoes.

Senior Pep Band member Celina Yim said, “I’m excited for senior night because it’s fun to have our parents come and celebrate us being seniors.”

“It’ll be sad ending pep band, but I still have symphonic band to look forward to, and

that goes until the end of the year,” said Yim. Boys’ basketball players will also be

honored on Senior Night during the cer-emony before the game, where they will be walked out by their parents.

“I’m still undecided about where I will be going to school next year, but my parents will be there to walk with me during the cer-emony,” said senior basketball player Aaron Hines. “We are also playing Webster Groves that night, so it should be a really good game.”

Although Webster Groves will be a tough draw for Senior Night, having the sup-port of family and fans will make one of the senior’s last game a memorable one.

“Webster Groves has been named Con-ference champions ten years in a row,” Kella-ms explained. “Other teams have come close, but they have still been yet to be beat.”

This serves as a challenge for the varsity basketball team, who will be expecting a big crowd.

“Most athletic teams have a Senior Night, but this one is probably more well-known because it involves all of the groups,” said Kellams.

With ten senior Cheerleaders, two se-nior Vikettes, and three senior Steppers, the spirit squads will lose important members of their squads after this year.

“Most importantly, Senior Night cele-brates the end of a year-long commitment by having everyone all together,” said Kellams.

Seniors Prepare to Ce lebrate Athlet i c Careers a t Nor th

Parkway North varsity cheerleaders prepare their new routine during practice in order for it to be perfect for Senior Night, which is on Feb. 15.

“It’s kind of our fare-well, so we make it the best we can,” said se-nior Lily Butterbrodt.

Photo by Emily Lad

ig

Freestyle is the most basic stroke out of all competitive strokes. Senior Taylor Vinson, who will be swimming the 100 meter freestyle at State, explains the steps for a perfect freestyle stroke:

STEP 1:“You lay flat on your stomach; arms

stretched out and pull back under the water towards your lower body.”

STEP 2:“Then bring your hands out of the

water and continue the circular type of motion, while simultaneously kicking your leggings up and down.”

STEP 3:“To breathe, you keep your head

down in the water and only lift it a little to the side; enough for you to catch a small pocket of air. If you lift your head too high, your body will begin to sink and it’ll make swimming a lot more tiring. Swimming is really difficult and there’s a wide range of ability.”

EXTENDED PRACTICE:“For some people, swimming just

clicks very easy, they are just naturally coordinated for swimming, while for others it takes much more practice. [The swim team does] approximately six to seven thousand yards depending on the day, so almost 300 laps. Apart from the exhausting practices, it can be a great bonding sport for the teams. It is more of an individual sport

Just Keep Swimming: Tips on How To Freestyle from the PNH Swim Team

and a lot of swimmers put a lot of pressure on themselves, but having a team to support you in your goals definitely helps.”

Photos by Katryn Dobkin

A photo displays the swimming cycle as Taylor Vinson shows how to freestyle in the Parkway North swimming pool.

Taylor Vinson practices her freestyle for state.

Senior Taylor Vinson swims freestyle to prac-tice for State, as well as the 200 and 400 meter freestyle.

Parkway North Girls’ Swimming and Diving State Meet

FridayFebruary 16, 2013St. Peters Rec Plex

February 14, 2013Parkway North High School 16Backpage

A cafeteria worker prepares drinks for the lunch shifts ahead.

Behind the Scenes

Katryn Dobkin

Staff Writer

Each day at 9 a.m., cafeteria workers collect lunch money students deposit in the boxes and add the money into the students’ accounts.

Athletic Director Kris Kellams checks her emails from other athletic directors to coordinate where sporting events should be held. “The most difficult thing about being the athletic director is making sure that athletic activities in the building don’t conflict with each other,“ said Kellams.

Building manager John Metheny reviews North’s floor plans and build-ing codes to help utilize space better.

Janitorial staff manage all necessary appliances needed to keep the campus clean in the storage rooms down the Tech Hallway.

Nurse Krista Stephan reviews students’ medical records and helps dispense medicine to students who need it during the school day.

While in Office Aide, Senior Quentin Cockerham helps theatre teacher Chad Little construct and put together the set for the upcoming school play.

Test Coordinator Judy Babitz and College and Career Coordina-tor Stephanie Martin help plan the ACT as well as find scholarships for seniors planning on attending college.

Linda Gatti, guidance college secretary, sorts through students’ transcripts to make sure all are in order.