Issue 2 September 11th, 2009

HIGH

A look back at 9/11

MUSICAL

Boys soccer Page 2

Construction

Page 4

High Life

Page 7

Since 1919 801 e. first mcpherson, ks mhshighlife.com

issue 1 volume 90 mcpherson high school

Anyone helping with the Area 6 Service Project tomorrow needs to be at the school at 2 pm.

Page 9

Lindsey Roesti feature

The

KAYS

2

SCHOOL

11 September 2009

State Fair

Homecoming

No School

Thought

The Kansas State fair opens today and closes on Sunday, Sept 20.

Fall Homecoming will be held on Oct 3. Tickets will be available Sept 28 - Oct 2 in the AC, or at the door the night of. $4 per person, $7 per couple.

Classes will not be held on Monday, September 14, due to a teacher’s collaboration day.

Things turn out best for those who make the best out of the way things turn out. -John Wooden

We’ll say goodbye after 25 years... She’ll say hello to a life of retirement

Hannah Martin Ads Manager

There must always come a time to say goodbye. For guidance counselor secretary Darlene Harms, the time is fast approaching. After 25 years of secretary work, Harms will be leaving the office life for a life of retirement. “I’m starting my ninth year as the guidance office secretary at McPherson High School. I worked for 16 years at the middle school, both in the guidance office and the main office,” Harms said. Some may wonder why retire after the new school year has begun. The answer is simple. “[I’m retiring] because of Kansas Public Retirement System. KPRS is based on an eighty-five points system made up of length of service and age of employee. When these two things add up, you’re allowed to retire. I had to work into this quarter to get my points,” Harms said. While KPRS has its rules for retirement, Harms is going to take life one day at a time and spend her time doing things she enjoys. “I don’t want to plan everyday. I want to be able to travel. I’ve already gone to Alaska and Hawaii, and I’d love to go back to either place or go back East to see the fall foliage as it turns. And I’d like to play with my grandkids. They’re now five and three and live here in town,” Harms said. But before the traveling and playtime can begin, Harms will have to leave those around her in both the hallways and the office. “The best parts of the last 25 years would have to be the friendships I made, both here and at the middle school. [I’ll miss] the kids and the ability to interact with the students. I liked knowing what was going on and seeing their futures unfold,” Harms said. Harms’ last day in the guidance office will be Tuesday, September 22.

1985

My first year I started at the middle school in the guidance office. This was the year we started printing our own grades in the school. It lasted from 7 am-12 pm.

1995

2009

By then, I was in the main office of the middle school. It’s a totally different world in the main office. This was also during the construction phase of the middle school.

I’ve enjoyed my time of working at the middle school and high school in both offices. I appreciate all the friendships I’ve made and that have developed.

Page 2

News

Thankfully, construction only lasted for a week. It was a major pain getting around with half the road blocked off. Clarissa Fenimore, News Editor

September 11, 2009

Construction on First St. Jacob Kresky Online Editor

Construction on First Street started Monday, August 24 and ended by 5:00 pm Friday, August 28. It has been a highly controversial issue for many students and teachers. “[The construction] sucked because we had to go out of our way to get in the direction we wanted to drive for lunch,” senior Jake Puhalla said. Many students steered clear of First Street and choose to park in the other parking lot. “Because of the Maxwell and First Street construction, I parked in the other parking lot,” junior Terry Vickroy said. “It was annoying and it wasted gas because I had to go all the way around,” junior Morgan Oriet said. Many teachers and students were not happy with the road construction taking place during the school year instead of the summer. “I thought they did a great job in getting it done quickly and causing as little disruption as possible, given the timing of the project. However, one day I did have to turn right on First, and then looped around on Hartup to head home. This took me by

Before

Sonic which sucked me in for a half-price drink, so it cost me a little time and about 80 cents one day. I blame the city for that moment of weakness.” teacher Chris Strathman said. “It came up for a variety of reasons,” Public Works Director Doug Whipacre said. “There was that section in front of the high school that was failing. It was more cost effective by doing it with the Maxwell construction.” This did not only effect students driving, but many walking and riding bikes. “I was glad they did not tear up the sidewalk,” sophomore Chad Raybon said. “It would have made riding my bike to school hard.” Although many high school students felt that the construction was un-necessary, many welcomed a newer road and some really did not care. “The construction makes no difference to me,” senior Jackson Curtright said. For now the city is done with construction on First Street. The new First Street, including major road construction will be done at a later time. “We wanted to at least assure that we would have a decent road surface there for the next four to five years,” Whipacre said.

During

After

photos by Jacob Kresky

Psych major student teaching Caleb Chin Opinions Editor

Psychology student teacher Nancy Salminen talks to students in a 2nd hour psychology class. photo by Caleb Chin

For a student teacher, Nancy Salminen has a lot more experience than befits her misleading title. She is currently a student teacher in Mr. Lujano’s psychology course. Salminen obtained her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology in 1983, but instead of pursuing a teaching career, she became involved in social service jobs for many years. She has been involved with helping victims of domestic violence, led at-risk youth programs, been a case manager for the YWCA, assisted group homes, adults with disabilities, participating in de-institutionalization, and was even a foster parent for five and a half years. However, wanting to expand her horizon of psychology even more, Salminen decided to go back and aim for a teaching degree in the subject. “I didn’t take my first psychology course until my freshman year in college,” Salminen said. “I love the subject of psychology and sociology. All that I had questioned about people, I found out other people had too. Psychology has such a broad reach that you can use it in just about everything.” As part of the last requirement to receive her teaching degree, Salminen must participate in student teaching for one semester. In regards to her instructor, she holds Mr. Lujano with respect and admiration.

2009-2010 no-school days SEPTEMBER:

9/7 - Labor Day 9/14 - Teacher collaboration

FEBRUARY:

OCTOBER:

2/11 - 12:30 dismissal 2/12 - Teacher workday/in-service 2/19 - P/T Conferences

NOVEMBER:

3/15 - 3/19 - Spring Break

10/2 - 12:30 dismissal

MARCH:

11/5 - 12:30 dismissal 11/6 - Teacher workday/in-service 11/13 - P/T Conferences 11/25 - 11/27 - Thanksgiving

APRIL:

DECEMBER:

12/23 - 1/4 - Winter Break

JANUARY:

1/1 - 1/4 - Winter Break 1/18 - Teacher collaboration

4/2 - Good Friday 4/5 - Teacher collaboration

MAY:

5/13 - 12:30 dismissal 5/14 - All School’s Day 5/27 - LAST DAY 11:30 dismissal

“He’s amazing,” Salminen said. “It’s incredible how he can keep a room full of students engaged. The way he teaches is supposed to be the least stimulating form of teaching, that is, lecture, and he finds a way to engage the students the whole time with his knowledge and personality. I can see why he’s a favorite teacher.” However, Salminen’s main purpose in receiving her degree in teaching is not necessarily for psychology. Rather, she wants to utilize it as a stepping stone to be able to help kids with disabilities and in Special Education. It’s not surprising considering her prior experience with social services. Salminen recalls when, during the period when deinstitutionalization (the process of liberating people thrown into supervised housing institutions that were deemed incapable of being in the real world), she met an “old, sad-looking man with a long beard”. In the past, he and his friend had proposed developing and building a car that ran on electricity, an idea years ahead of his time. But opposed to being given a chance, officials declared him mentally unstable and threw him into an institution. He was subjected to electro-shock therapy every time he mentioned his advanced idea until the man gave up and finally stopped talking about it. “Imagine if we had actually listened to that man, and where we’d be now,” Salminen said. “ I believe that you should always be making a difference with your life. Psychology helps me do that.”

Please enjoy the 185th edition of this page’s layout. Clarissa Fenimore, News Editor

Page 3

News

September 11, 2009

Student musicians improve skills Kassidy Glazner Staff Writer

Besides the usual extra curricular activities, a few MHS students are doing something a little different. Juniors Savannah Edgar and Nichole Taliaferro, as well as freshman Kasey Gregory, are involved in the Salina Youth Symphony. This is a group that offers an opportunity for youth to participate in a professionally directed orchestra. “I got involved because I was recommended by a friend,” Gregory said. The Salina Youth Symphony is a big Band/ Orchestra of talented students from the Salina area. You must prepare a piece of music to play for the audition. Once you are selected to be in the group, you are involved for a year. They practice every Saturday morning at 8:30, in Salina. The director is Ken Hakoda, who is a professor at Kansas Wesleyan University. A concert is scheduled for November 15 at the Stiefel Theatre for the Performing Arts. “We have little concerts throughout the year and then a really big one in March or April.” Ediger said. Other MHS students have participated in the symphony in the past. One of them being Rebekah Wagoner. Wagoner enjoyed being in the symphony. “I was in it for three years. You get a lot of lasting friendships,” Wagoner said. There is also many rewards that can come out of participating in the Salina Youth Symphony. “You can get scholarships to music camps,” Wagoner said. “You get exposure, and you get experience to advanced literature.”

Waldhauer Hour brings back Rachel’s Challenge Brent Gipson Staff Writer

Former MHS Government teacher Lisa Waldhauer who began working for the McPherson School District in 2001, died July 10, 2006, of complications from cancer. As an American Government and History II teacher, Waldhauer was respected, well-loved and renowned upon by her students and colleagues. She was not only a teacher, she was also the sponsor for KAYS and StuCo. The Lisa Waldhauer Memorial Fund was established with the McPherson County Community Foundation in August 2006. The memorial fund is funded from private contributions, and fundraisers. The most profitable fundraiser they hold yearly is a golf tournament. The golf tournament has raised over $85,000 in it’s first three years, and $29,000 this last year. The fund’s advisory board has sponsored the ‘Waldhauer Hour’ at MMS and MHS yearly. For the second year in a row, the advisory board will be bringing Rachel’s Challenge to MMS and MHS. Ra-

chel Scott was the first person killed at Columbine High School on April 20, 1999. Her acts of kindness and compassion coupled with the contents of her six diaries have become the foundation for one of the most life-changing school programs in America. Powerful video/audio footage of Rachel’s life and the Columbine tragedy holds students spell-bound during a one hour school presentation that motivates them to positive change in the way they treat others. Entertainers, politicians, sports celebrities, educators and even two Presidents of the United States have been impacted by Rachel’s Challenge. However, students are the target audience and they have proven that they will respond with positive words, attitudes, and actions. Rachel’s brother, Craig Scott will be back at MHS on September 23rd to present part two, Rachel’s Legacy to the MHS student body. “I thought it was really eye opening last year and interesting to see how much we can learn from such a horrible tragedy and realize how important it is to be kind to not only certain people but to everyone,” senior Lucy Anderson said.

President’s message to students Jeni Arbuckle Staff Writer

September 8, 2009. Approximately 11:00 a.m. President Obama takes the podium at the Wakefield High School in Arlington, Virginia, speech in hand. He begins by addressing the students of the United States, starting his nineteen minute talk about persistence and success. Fear rode the conservatives, afraid President Obama’s speech would be used to shove forward a partisan political agenda. On the contrary, Obama avoided all speak of political iniatives, constantly pressing all students to stay in school and work as hard as they could. Obama called on the students of the country to set goals for education, to put down the Xbox

remote, and pick up a book, to stand up for kids who are being teased and to pay attention in class. He challenged all students to make any kind of goal, small or large, to help themselves and other around them succeed. “You won’t love every subject you study. You won’t click with every teacher. Not every homework assignment will seem completely relevant to your life right this minute. And you won’t necessarily succeed at everything the first time you try. That’s OK. Some of the most successful people in the world are the ones who’ve had the most failures.” Obama said. Obama concluded, telling each and every student that he expected them to get serious this year, that he expects great things from them, and that we shouldn’t let our family, country, or selves down. We should make them all proud. He knows we can

Experience applied to coaching debate Rochelle Cottrell Feature Editor

Coaches. When most think of this word the first thing that comes to mind is a person who coaches some kind of sport. Debate rarely comes to mind. While first year MHS teacher and debate coach Cory Buchta may not have the football playbook memorized, he is very knowledgeable in the field of debate. “I participated in debate in high school and college, and last year I was an assistant coach for Newton High School,” Buchta said. While Buchta has years of experience with debate, that is not his only reason for becoming the debate coach. “I was really active in debate in high school and college, and I think debate is really important for students to be involved in,” Buchta said. Even though Buchta has been involved in debate before, this is his first time coaching and teaching debate on his own.

“I have to learn all about the kids and get them to trust me and learn what it takes to manage a program. There’s a lot more involved that you did not have to do when you were an assistant coach,” Buchta said. Buchta is not the only one experiencing changes. The debaters also have to adjust to a new coach. “He has a whole different approach to coaching and the environment is extremely laid back and chill,” junior Sam Starr said. Even though the debaters have to adapt to a new coaching style, there are some advantages to having a new coach. “We get a new perspective on how to do debate and are introduced to different arguments that we possibly haven’t been exposed to before,” junior Katie Benson said. Buchta has set some high goals for his first year. “I’m expecting for us to have some real competitive teams and some state qualifiers. I would also like to get another national qualifier because I know McPherson had one last year,” Buchta said.

photo by Rachel Lee

Like the many other unfortunate events in our nation’s history, we are learning and recovering from it. Hannah Lujano, In-Depth Editor

Page 4

In-Depth September 11, 2009

A look at the after effects and events that have occured since the largest terrorist attack on American soil

Eight years of battling terror

Poll Results: Were the attacks a conspiracy?

21% 79%

Clarissa Fenimore News Editor

yes

no

Are you more aware now?

74% 26%

Nikki Wentling Editor in Chief

yes

no

How has America changed? “I think on average America has gained a few too many pounds, maybe everyone is just depressed because of what happened.”

“it’s kind of sad that it takes tragedy to bring this country closer together.” “We have become more hateful of outside groups.”

Personal experiences: “I look at people differently” “Made me educate myself before I believe the press, and be much more open minded.” “It made me realize that there are more things going on in the world than we think.” “Well, I am middle eastern and people call me a terrorist.”

This date is synonymous with a terrorist attack that shook the country. Eight years later, the people of the United States of America are still feeling the aftershocks of the attacks on September 11, 2001. The unexpected loss of 2,993 American lives irrevocably changed society in the U.S., in ways that still affect us today. After the dust from the destruction of the Twin Towers had settled, the people of the United States turned their tear-filled and weary eyes upon the government. An entire country watched as their leader, President Bush, launched a “War on Terrorism” that eventually cost him a great deal of support from the majority. This “war” is still raging in the Middle East almost a decade later. This is at the back of many student’s minds, as it has been going on for so long and nothing drastic seems to have happened since the capture of Sadam Hussein. Apart from the battle going on across seas, a battle is being fought here at home between citizens and the government over the deployment of troops and the national security measures being enforced across the country. Paranoia swept the nation after the attacks and it still lingers today. Security at airports, in schools and in all kinds of places has been taken to an entirely new level. Every visit to an airport involves extensive searches and a crackdown on what is and isn’t allowed aboard an airplane. This sense of paranoia was increased as the nation watched footage of the Virginia Tech shooting that occured six years later on April 16, 2007. Everywhere we go, the closed-up, untrusting nature of many in this country is evident. The effects of the attacks and the subsequent war have extended as deeply into America’s pocketbook as they have America’s heart and mind. Over $900,000,000,000 have been spent to fund the war in the Middle East. We’ve all been subjected to inflation and recession, as well as tax increases and unpredictable gas prices as a result of our efforts on the other side of the globe. With Barack Obama being elected this past November, new hope was restored to the country that lost faith in the governement because of the decisions made after the 9/11 castastrophe. However, many are not pleased with Obama’s policies, and his hesitation in getting the troops out of Iraq as he promised. Our generation was young when the attacks took place, and we may be old when the matter is resolved. We will ultimately take over in dealing with the many after effects of the tragedy, and hopefully we can learn from the mistakes that our leaders have made to eventually create a better America.

r, which a w d e “It caus brother go y made m s.” oversea

“I lost a cousin in Iraq and two more still serve over in Afghanistan.”

“My Unc l

e died.”

Page 5

In-Depth

Hannah Lujano, In-Depth Editor

September 11, 2009

the

buzz source: cnn.com

Cheesy beating A Wichita man was beaten because he received the wrong cheeseburger. The 25-year-old man went to the hospital with a broken jaw late Wednesday night.

Silent child A 61-year-old man slapped a two year old that he had no relation to in an Atlanta Walmart. He was charged with the felony of cruelty to children.

Belly up Thousands of tropical fish totaling nearly $500,000 died in a Russian airport after 15 hours in customs. The fish were destined for a Russian oceanarium.

Holy homework A public school wants to use the Bible as part of their educational cirriculum and is suing the state of Idaho for barring its use, saying it is illegal.

Page 6

Sports

The soccer team is hosting the McPherson Invitational at the college this week. Come out and cheer on the soccer team! Leigh Loving, Sports Editor

August 19,2009

Volleyball serves up multiple wins Clarissa Fenimore News Editor

Just over three weeks into the school year and fall sports season, the volleyball team has already seen its fair share of time on the court. With four wins against Hutch (25-20, 25-16), Campus (25-17, 25-12), Salina Central (25-14, 25-15) and Ark City (2125, 25-8, 25-14) and only two losses to Newton (22-25, 25-21, 22-25) and Maize (17-25, 14-25), Mac made a good showing at the AVCTL Pre-Season Tournament in Hutch on Aug 29. “I think we did really well. We beat the teams we were supposed to. Maize and Newton were pretty good. Newton we could have beat. It was really close and we got tired,” senior Lacey Unruh said. The following week, on Sept 1, the team hosted its own triangle and fell after three games to Salina South (25-15, 8-25, 15-25) but triumphed over Hutch (25-15, 25-17). “We had some really good rallies with Salina South. Everyone fought really hard,” junior Sarah Gaeddart said. On Tuesday, the team traveled to Goddard and faced off with Winfield, winning 25-13, 25-11; Salina Central, coming out on top with 25-23, 25-16; and lost their match against the home team 16-25, 1425. The only injuries the volleyball team is dealing with at this point occured before the season began, with two freshmen that are sitting out after surgeries and a junior who was out for a while with a returning knee injury. “Only the two freshmen are still out. Everybody’s back in action at this point,” head coach Christy Doile said. The volleyball team is far from done, with a triangle coming up in Ark City on Sept 15 and another triangle in Newton on Sept 22 with the Newton Invite following on the 26th. “I think we can go pretty far if we just work hard,” Unruh said.

Senior Collyn Wall goes up for a header during the Labor Day game against the Thomas More Prep Monarchs. The team pulled off a 2-1 win. photo by Brent Gipson

Soccer earns first win in double overtime

Team wins first round in McPherson Invitational Katie Mena Entertainment Editor

After a rocky start, the Bullpup boys soccer team has a win on their record. The boys matched up against Thomas More Prep on Monday in the opening game of the annual McPherson Invitational and their home debut game. MHS came out on top with a 2-1 victory, moving their record to 1-2. “We played pretty good,” freshman Xavier Tores said. “We controlled the ball well. We didn’t give up and just kept going.” MHS’s Davian Lawrence was the first to score with Lee Williams assisting, sending the Pups into the second half with a score of 1-0. “The more possessions we have, the more shots we will get on goal,” Lawrence said. “That goal was all about hustling.” The Monarchs answered Lawrence’s goal in the second half, and there was no other goal for the remainder of the half. The first overtime produced the same result, which called for a double overtime. Only forty-five seconds in to the second overtime, Lee Williams tucked away the game winning goal for the Bullpups, assisted by Xavier Tores.

“The effort was there, but we could have done better against a team like that,” Lawrence said. “We’ll always take the win, but we’re going to need to play better on Thursday if we want to make the championship game.” If the Pups make it to the final round, they will be going for their 3rd straight title of this tournament. The Pups also took on the Salina South Cougars at Salina Stadium on Thursday, September 3, falling 0-1. “We didn’t work together as a team, and we still have a lot of work to do,” junior Evan Bissel said. MHS boys soccer opened at Newton on Tuesday, September 1. They suffered a 1-4 loss, with Lee Williams scoring the only MHS goal off a header in the first half, assisted by Preston Mossman. The MHS boys soccer team played last night against Hays in the second round of the McPherson Invitational at 7 p.m. Hays also won their first round game against Independence. Results from last night’s match up were not available at press time. The Bullpups will return to action Satuday afternoon against either Salina South or Wichita Trinity. The time and opponent is determined by the results of last night’s matches.

Cross country starts off on the right foot Rochelle Cottrell Feature Editor

Sophomore Kendra Reed races to the finish line at the J.K. Gold Classic cross country meet hosted by WSU . photo by Darcie Nelson

With six new girls and three new boys, the cross country team has a lot of new and returning runners this year. With one meet under their belt and another meet in Emporia this Saturday, teacher and cross country coach Chad Brake has high expectations for this season. “[I’m expecting] for varsity to qualify for state and place as one of the top teams and for each of the runners to improve their own personal goals,” Brake said. Some of Brake’s expectations have already been met at the first meet. “We had a lot of personal records set on that course so we competed real hard,” Brake said. Brake may have met some of his goals already, but he still has concerns for the season. “[My biggest concern] is staying healthy and injury free,” Brake said. This concern has already become a reality for senior Kelsi Beam, as she has to abstain from running due to

her pre-season injury. “I have two stressed fractures from running and can’t compete for a couple of weeks,” Beam said. While Beam may not be able to compete for a few weeks, she still has high expectations for the team. “The boys are probably going to be pretty good and the girls have a lot of new runners so it will be fun to see how they do,” Beam said. Beam’s prediction has held true for the first meet as the boys placed fourth and the girls took fifth. Other results from the Wichita State Meet are as follows. In individual placings from the varsity boys team senior Adam Porter placed first, senior Morgan Peterson placed twelth, junior Nicholas Rempe placed sixteenth, junior Skylar Janda placed fourty-seventh, and senior Max Archer placed fifty-ninth. The varsity girls team also had top finishers. Junior Andrea Nowak placed eighth, senior Emily Reeese played twelth, freshman Colleen O’connor placed twenty-fifth, junior Leigh Loving placed thirty-eighth, sophomore Kendra Reed placed thirty-sixth, and freshman Kayla Faust placed forty-first.

I’m putting this out there right now. Texas will be in the national championship this coming Janurary. Leigh Loving, Sports Editor

Page 7

Sports

August 19, 2009

playeroftheweek

football

Kylee Bonham Te n n i s Favorites

Color: Blue Food: Pizza Movie: Pineapple Express Andrea Nowak MHL Editor

Football cages Goddard Lions 40-17 Hannah Lujano Indepth Editor

Like the events that transpired at last Thursday’s pep rally, the senior football players were not afraid to show their stuff. “Dylan showed Courtney up on the cheer moves,” senior Joel Piper said. However, instead of performing toe touches, they were making perfect plays. “We executed really well on offense and defense and we were pretty physical,” senior Ben Clary said. With all the early anticipation surround-

ing the game against Goddard, it came as no surprise that the final score was 40-17, with the Bullpups as the victors. “I think it went pretty well, I was expecting a better game but we played hard and stuck it to them,” Piper said. The season opener win was anything but luck. Coach Tom Young and his staff have prepared this year’s team well. “He demands perfection and brings the best out of everyone,” senior Tyler Davis said. The football team will be back in action on September 11 as they host their first home game against Campus High School.

Despite low numbers tennis succeeds The McPherson High School girl’s tennis team is determined to start off the year strong. Numbers may be down, and there may have been a delay in the finishing of the tennis courts, but that isn’t a factor for this year’s talented team. “I think that since numbers are lower, we can get more one on one and therefore get better.” Sophomore, Libby Graber said. The team of eleven has been practicing everyday after school since the first week of school. Since there was a delay in the finishing time of the newly built tennis courts, the

Sophomore Kirsten Holle hits the ball at the McPherson Invitational. photo by Kassidy Glazner

girls have been practicing at Wall Park. “We’re really excited to play on the new courts. We’re getting tired of driving to Wall Park everyday for practice,” Graber said. This year’s varsity line-up

Ashley Sweat

hometown | McPherson, Kansas graduated | ‘06 college | Kansas State position | 6-2 forward

photo courtesy of Kansas State sports information

After graduating from MHS in ‘06, Ashley Sweat has continued her success in basketball at Kansas State. Starting every game her junior season, Sweat starts her senior season as a preseason candidate for the John Wooden Award. The Wooden Award nominates players who exhibit strengths of character on and off the court, contribute to team effort, and have a cumulative 2.00 GPA at an accredited college. During her junior season Sweat was named 2009 All Big 12 1st team and 2009 Academic Big 12 1st team.

Trost 915

Freshman Volleyball Number of years coaching

How long have you been coaching softball? I’ve been coaching since 1999 at South Central Salina. Did you play volleyball? Yes, I played at Cloud Community College and Boise State University. What do you like about the team so far? I like their willingness to work with each other and be a good team doing it. I’m excited to see what the rest of the season will be like as they continue to improve and advance. What do you like about volleyball? I like that it’s a team sport where all of the individual skills are put together to make the strength of the team. And it’s about finesse and control rather than simple brute strength.

5

Kassidy Glazner Staff Writer

includes, Casyn Buchman and Kirsten Holle as number one and two singles. The duo of Katie Bomberger and Ashley Allmon will be competing as the number one doubles team, and Kylee Bonham and Erika Wedel as number two doubles. The JV lineup includes Libby Graber as number one singles. Allison Ivers and Katelynn Reed competing in number one doubles, and Alex Bruce and Harley Ratley competing as number two doubles. “ The tennis season is going to go great,” Casyn Buchman said. The Girls kicked off there season Thursday September 3, 2009 at the McPherson Invitational. They compete next Saturday, September 12, at the Salina Central Invite.

For junior Kylee Bonham tennis hasn’t always been a part of her life, but it is an activity she’s grown to love. “I wanted to try something new, so in seventh grade I went out,” Bonham said, “I really liked it and have been playing ever since.” Despite the nervous butterflies Bonham gets at meets, she is comforted knowing that on and off the court her role model is always beside her. “My mom has a full time job and yet is a full time mom, always supporting me in tennis.” There are different forms of preparation before meets but no matter what, hard work is a necessity. “Practices usually consist of drills and challenge matches. There’s also a little bit of running too,” Bonham said. Some of her goals for the season include getting to state at #2 doubles on the top 6 and individually having a better record than last year. In her spare time Bonham keeps busy with softball and swimming, but no matter what game she’s playing her favorite aspect of sports remains the same. “I hate losing. I play to win and to have fun, but mostly win,” Bonham said.

minutes with coach

Junior Heath Collins attempts to evade a tackle during the Goddard football game. photo by Brent Gipson

Page 8

MyHighLife

This test will be sent to the colleges you want to attend, and is not something to go into without first preparing. Andrea Nowak, MHL editor

ACT

Countdown

1 day until ACT Test

A student’s guide to the...

3 days until Teacher Collaboration Day No School 8 days until Melodrama 19 days until Senior Meeting 22 days until Fall Homecoming 27 days until International Walk to School Day

Upcoming Dates

30 days until SAT Test 32 days until Columbus Day

September 12 October 24 December 12

• Know what the directions are asking ahead of time. • DON’T CRAM. Pace yourself on studying, and on the test. • Develop a strategy for guessing. Be familiar with “process of elimination” and “educated guesses” • Make sure you have all your supplies. Check your test site to make sure you have everything. • RELAX. Don’t stress over the test. Study periodically during the months before to make sure you’re prepared.

CLUB Lowdown Science Club The Science Club is open to anyone who would like to join. Please contact Mrs. Toews in room 116 if you are interested.

February 6 April 10 June 12

How/Ways to Prepare

have all supplies ready relax get a good night’s sleep

Art Guild Art Guild has begun once again. Sponsors are Mrs. Hall and Mrs. Margres. Members are still welcome to join, fees are $1.

September 11, 2009

DAY BEFORE

DAY OF

NOW



begin study guides work on vocabulary take full length practice tests



Recommended Guide



ACT online prep The Real ACT Prep Guide Princeton Review Kaplan

dress comfortably bring admission ticket, identification arrive on time

2

High School Musical 2 on mopeds. Epic. Rochelle Cottrell, Feature Editor

HIGH

SCHOOL MUSICAL ON STAGE

Student on highway to Success Kassidy Glazner Staff Writer

When August arrived many high school seniors were busy squeezing every ounce out of summer that was left, checking their class schedules, practicing for fall sports, and making preparations for their final academic year of high school. The circumstances were a little different for Lindsey Roesti, as she was chosen to be in the Music Theatre of Wichita’s production of High School Musical 2 On Stage. It featured many talented young Midwesterners, like herself. Many of us have heard of this charming story that first premiered on Disney Channel fall of 2006 including the stars Zac Efron and Vanessa Hudgens. The second coming out in summer of 2007, a third following in winter 2008. The saga of stories was teen influenced, only the third hitting theatres. Now, after three years of successful broadcasting it’s hit the stage. “I heard about it last year during the Hunchback of Notre Dame, Marsha Sterneker told me that I should go for it. Auditions weren’t until April, so I kind of forgot about it for a while. It was funny because they were actually the day after prom, so I stayed up all night and then got up to go to Wichita at eight the next morning. You gotta’ do what you gotta’ do,” Lindsey Roesti said.

Page 9

Feature

August 19, 2009

There were 61 people in the cast, chosen out of approximately 100 individuals that auditioned. “We started practicing on August the third, it was pretty much everyday until August 20. So basically I drove up to Wichita every day for a month,” Roesti said. The performances were August 20-23 at Century II, in Wichita. Despite all the work, Roesti would say that it was totally worth it to be in a production like this. “It was pretty awesome, because it meant that I was good enough to do it with kids that do it professionally, not just at the high school level.” Roesti said. Roesti has been involved in drama for a good portion of her life. Cindy Marion, the drama teacher, enjoys having Roesti in class. “Lindsey is talented, creative, and dedicated. She is willing to risk and try new things. She will be playing Helen Keller in the production of the Music Man. Her ability to throw herself into a role is fabulous. She is fabulous,” Marion said. Roesti’s long-term goals include going to college and majoring in film production or directing. Being in High School Musical 2 On Stage has definitely given her a lot of great memories and experience. “It helps get me out there in the world,” Roesti said. “My name isn’t just secluded to this high school anymore. It widened my horizon. I’ve been out there, and I’ve worked with other directors besides Mrs.. Marion. I made new friends, and had a new experience.”

Senior Lindsey Roesti dances along to the music during the performance of High School Musical 2 On Stage. Photos by Jerry Fritchman

Moped Pod: Saving the planet Andrea Nowak MHL Editor

Seven MHS students cruise to school on their newest form of transportation. Jake Robertson rides alongside them into the west parking lot on his “flat black, murdered out, Honda moped.” The group consists of Robertson, Graham Krizek, Kevin Spencer, Sam Spencer, Colby Geren, and Will Heidebrecht. The crew meets every morning at Krizek’s house on North High Drive around eight o’clock. They have ridden to the high school almost every day beginning on August 20th, but riding their mopeds ultimately depends upon the forecast. “We check the weather in the mornings, and if there is a chance of rain we all drive our cars instead,” said Robertson. Mopeds are motorized bicycles that have pedals in addition to a low-powered gasoline engine which does not allow for the rider to reach very high speeds. Each boy acquired their own two wheeled vehicles around the same time, mid to late July. “I was actually given mine from a friend,” said Robertson, “and shortly after everyone else got theirs.” The price of the moped all depended upon the person. It ranged from anywhere around three to five hundred dollars a piece. Most of the boys played for their mopeds with money they had earned from their summer jobs. So although there was a price for their ride, there are also many rewards. “They’re great because they are really fun to drive and they save a lot on gas,” said Robertson.

Juniors Andrew Huber, Jake Robertson, Graham Krizek, Sam Spencer, and senior Will Heidebrecht cruise down the street. Other moped riders include Kevin Spencer and Colby Geren. Photos provided by Graham Krizek

Our bathrooms don’t even have doors. You’d have to want to tak e brownies out of the oven pretty bad. Caleb Chin, Opinions Editor

Page 10

Opinions

September 11, 2009

Lack of locks in girls bathroom causes concern Here’s the equation. 1 Bathroom + 2 Many Females + 4 Open Stall Doors = A cause for disaster. Try solving the problem any way you please, but the result remains the same. Have you ever noticed, say at sporting events for example, how girls always seem to have lines to use the restroom that go way outside the door? Yet guys are able to walk in and out with no problems at all. It would be so nice if girls didn’t have to worry about another dilemma concerning the facilities. The girl’s bathroom on the west side of the school poses problems for students at MHS. While slightly open doors shouldn’t be a huge issue, the chance that someone will walk in on you is disturbing. Imagine sitting there, taking care of your business and another person enters your stall. That isn’t exactly a situation most of us want to face. Not to mention how awkward that predicament would be. But the thing is, it does happen. In fact, certain stalls are even avoided so this type of example does not occur. So is the school actually paying for utilities that aren’t even being used? The only reasoning behind the lack of locks is that this is the way it has always been. Guess no one really wants to mess with tradition. This is a part of life people deal with daily, but rather than permitting other females to just walk in on you while you are doing your thing, find a solution. Have a friend hold the stall door shut for you, use a different bathroom, or just control your bladder.

President’s address to students proves inspirational; lesson plans do not

Health care? Who cares about Health care? We shouldn’t have to worry about the treatment and management of illness, and the preservation of health through services offered by the medical, dental, complementary and alternative medicine, pharmaceutical, clinical laboratory sciences (in vitro diagnostics), nursing, and allied health professions….yet. But the thing is, “Yet” is implying we will, which is the truth. We will grow older and we are being exposed to this sort of legal junk more and more each year. One fourth of us are in our last year of high school, which leads to college, Jeni Arubuckle which means being on your own. Being on your own Staff Writer requires knowing what’s up when it comes to health care, and all the other technical requirments that are involved when working a full-time job. And as I think about this, I think about what Obama is trying to do to our Health Care system and patients. The approximately one thousand page Health Care Bill states some rather horrifying things. Among all these atrocious statements page 354, section 1177 states that the government will RESTRICT enrollment of Special needs people! Not only this, but Obama plans on rationing all health care benefits based on life expectancy and lifestyle. As well as the fact that you will have no choice in what health care benefits you will receive. That means no Point-of-Choice benefits, nor managed care coverage. No choices, no nothing. There will be a committee of people that assigns your benefits to you. This committee will take into consideration the way you live, including what you spend extra cash on, if you pay your bills on time, etc. and how long you’re expected to live, then decide what kind of coverage and help that you will recieve. So what happens when you exceed life expectancy? You recieve mimimal health coverage and care plans. That’s not right. We will all be apart of this system someday. If this bill passes, we’re screwed because of the things Obama wants to change. The bill he’s trying to impose on our country is crap because of the rationing and control he’s trying to take, the complete chaos he’s trying to cause. It’s going to ruin our society and collapse the system that’s already in place and running smoother than what this bill ever would.

“Every single one of you has something you’re good at. Every single one of you has something to offer. And you have a responsibility to yourself to discover what that is,” Obama said in his pro-education speech. Finally, a United States President addresses students. Seriously, it’s about time we get recognized! Students are the future of America, and almost every president before Obama has aimed all speeches towards everyone but students. They speak to adults and every senior citizen they can find, but no stuKatie Mena dents. Entertainment Editor Instead, the Commander in Chief addressed students only. He related himself to us in statements such as “I know a lot of you have challenges in your lives right now that can make it hard to focus on your schoolwork. I get it. I know what that’s like.” He proceeded to give us a personal story of his father leaving home. Most importantly, he made students feel important, like they actually have a say in what’s going on in our country today. Good job, Obama! Now, for anyone out there who believes the government is trying to “brainwash” students....really?! We’re fully functioning human beings. We can think for ourselves and create our own opinions. In less than four years, all of us will be out in the real world, with real jobs, making real money. Please explain to me why there’s such a negative response towards the President when he’s trying to encourage education. He’s trying to tell us to stay in school, but there are stories all over the Internet about parents forbidding their children to watch it. Let’s think about that one. I’ll admit the acompanying lesson plans to go along with President Obama’s speech and their discussion topics that the government would like teachers to discuss with students are a little too much. I like the speech, but I also like making my own decisions about how I feel, without having discussions about “what I can do to help the President.” Obviously, the White House agreed eventually, since they ended up changing the lesson plans to “how I can achieve my short-term and long-term education goals.” Overall, I thought the speech was really good. I thought the content of it focused a lot on applauding students and calling them to action. Take the speech for what it was. I don’t believe there was any ulterior tives

Michael Fay Comic

Health care bill to ruin country

Page 11

I’m really excited about the ICEE machine in Walgreens! Wally World still rocks my socks though. Katie Mena, Entertainment Editor

Entertainment September 11, 2009

Walgreens

Wipeout proves weird and fun

Provides many choices for fair prices

Jacob Kresky Online Editor

out of 5 stars With its shiny displays, polished floors, and numerous customer service buttons the new McPherson Walgreens opened September 1st at its Kansas and Centennial location. This will help keep prices in town competitive between Wal-Mart, Dillons and now Walgreens. With a town this size, McPherson can easily accommodate a store with a wide assortment of hygiene items, candy, cosmetics, etc. This new store is a prototype store. It is one of six different stores around the country to be designed this way and was the first one of its type built. It has all the items of a normal Walgreens, including a photo kiosk. This kiosk will take many types of common digital media such as SD cards and CD’s and even has a scanner bed. It prints the photos out in about twenty minutes and is completely automated with prices similar to its competition (The Wal-Mart One Hour Photo Lab). This Walgreens store is like a dollar store, convenience store, and a pharmacy all rolled up into one establishment. With an endless supply of necessities and random items this store is sure to keep bored high school students entertained. The pharmacy drive thru is sure to prove steep competition to some of the other drug stores, as it provides a quick convenient

Not so ‘Funny People’ Hannah Lujano In-Depth Editor

out of 5 stars

Like an ill thought out roller coaster, the beginning of this movie has you laughing till you pee your pants and the ending leaves you crying for it to end. I believe this movie could have been cut by an hour and I would have been more than happy. Adam Sandler plays an uncharacteristic serious role throughout the movie, nothing like Billy Madison or Happy Gilmore. I liked his comedic characters, so why fix it if it’s not broken? Why are there so many tears in this movie and so much violence? There were so many odd moments that I was distracted from the actual story line which was hard to follow by itself. I’d have to say my favorite part of the entire movie was when the first few minutes while the credits are still rolling and Sandler is doing some of his retro humor reminiscent of Billy and Happy. Only Sandler can make a woman messing herself from roast beef funny. The truth is that Sandler is a funny person, but not in this movie.

way to pick up prescriptions. They are also offering flu shots this year in their pharmacy department. Prices at Walgreens are really what you would expect to pay anywhere with the exception of a decent sized coffee/ cappuccino/hot chocolate which is 49-cents for a large and 79-cents for a large ICEE. For being open less than two weeks, Walgreens has done great with the exception of a few organizational problems. There is no soap where the sign says “bath soap” and definitely no toothbrushes where the sign says “toothbrushes”. Overall, McPherson will benefit greatly from this new store. Store hours are 8am-9pm 7 days a week. Pharmacy is open 8am-9pm M-F and 10-6 Sat & Sun.

photo by Jacob Kresky

‘All Time Low’ at all time high Chris Rakowski out of 5 stars Sports Writer

All Time Low is young, talented, and on the rise. With the whole crew being 17 and still in high school the band has lots of time to make many big hits. Their recently released album Nothing Personal has been making some noise not to mention lots of money for the young group when the album peaked at the fourth spot on Billboards Top 200 albums. They are now one of the biggest pop/punk bands out and not one member of the band has a diploma. I will be listening to All Time Low for a long time, or at least as long as band sticks together.

The

High Life

Beliefs

We believe that a free press is essential to maintaining a healthy democracy. Likewise, we believe that a free student press is essential to maintaining the free exchange of ideas on a school campus. We believe that we have an obligation to serve as a voice for our audience. We believe that we have an obligation to expose dishonesty in public affairs by public officials, and the improper or illegal use of power by public officials.

Legal

Letters to the editor should be submitted to Room 43. Please limit comments to 300 words. Letters must be signed by the writer, but upon request, can be printed anonymous. The High Life is the official publication of McPherson High School, the opinions expressed in this newspaper are those of the students and do not necessarily reflect those of its administration, faculty and staff. A publication schedule is available upon request. The subscription is $10 a year. Student price is $2 per year. Professional memberships for student journalists include Kansas Scholastic Press Association, National Scholastic Press Association, and Journalism Education Association.

Phillip Watson Staff Writer

out of 5 stars It seems that American culture still finds its way to create multiple reality shows, be it American Idol, the show people won’t shut up about, Don’t forget the Lyrics, which sometimes stars celebrities struggling to remember (sometimes) their OWN songs, or that one talent show. This leads to a relatively new reality show about the fun of failing miserably, Wipeout. In general, the show’s premise itself is well set up; contestants compete for a cash prize by avoiding millions of obstacles in courses that would make you dizzy in more ways than one. Of course no show like this would be complete with casters who in reprise, think they’re “funny” at making trite puns to each of the competitors based on they’re preferences If you can get past the annoyance of the commentators, Wipeout proves to be an enjoyable show full of slapstick humor that would make Jerry Lewis cry. Each event is divided into preliminaries, where some contestants are knocked off for not completing the course or for finishing late in the time. This leads to the next round where the contestants must continuously jump over a rapid rotating pole on small platforms, the one who ends up winning gets additional money for sticking it out. In the 2nd-to-last round, contestants are out upon the merry-go-round of doom where I believe they get spun 30 miles an hour on a spinning platform then are made to cross on of two paths to the end of the stage going on to the finale, filled with much vomiting and fat people falling down. The finale takes competitors on first, a surfing descent to the bottom stage, than a “donkey kong” style barrel jump (not making this up) going on to a rapid-spinning platform with sandbags attached to it; contestants have to jump onto the platform all the while its completely soaked in water. Then, FINALLY, competitors make platform jumps to the end point and whoever gets the fastest time wins. Many who oppose this show would probably take the stance on how its game/obstacle approach is “childish,” well compared to most of the other junk on TV nowadays; this oddball program feels like an ACTUAL game show. Wipeout proves to be moderately respectful game show full of fast quirks and gimmicks that’ll keep many viewers hooked. With most game shows today being more like Biggest Loser or American Idol, it’s nice to see a change of pace.

High Life Staff

Phone

620-241-9500 ext. 115 E-mail [email protected]

Hours Staff meets 2nd hour daily. Staffers also in newsroom hours one, four, and six. Staff usually meets Monday evenings before printing in room 43.

Editor in Chief: Nikki Wentling, InDepth Editor: Hannah Lujano, Opinions Editor: Caleb Chin, Staff Writer: Brent Gipson, Cartoonist: Michael Fay, News Editor: Clarissa Fenimore, MyHighLife Editor: Andrea Nowak, Feature Editor: Rochelle Cottrell, Sports Writer: Leigh Loving, Entertainment Editor: Katie Mena, Ads Manager: Hannah Martin, Sports Writer: Chris Rakowski, Online Editor: Jacob Kresky, Staff Writer: Kassidy Glazner, Staff Writer: Jeni Arbuckle, Staff Writer: Channing Wall, Staff Writer: Phillip Watson, Adviser: Todd Brittingham

Look at all of these wonderful ads, and take advantage of some of the deals they offer to us students. Clarissa Fenimore, News Editor

page 12

News

September 11, 2009

Leigh’s LAwN CARE Call: (620) 755-3882

Leigh’s LOVING

your LAWN!

need

SENIOR PICTURES? Call Larry Bretches

(620) 241-7427 Pictures Available on CD

HAPPY 18th BIRTHDAY BENNY!