Wichita East Messenger Vol.117 Issue 4

NOVEMBER 6, 2009VOLUME 117, ISSUE 41

MESSENGERWICHITA HIGH SCHOOL EAST

2301 E. DOUGLAS AVE., WICHITA, KS 67211 // EHSMESSENGER.COM

FALL PLAY PREVIEW - 2‘THE STEPFATHER’ REVIEW - 4SCHOOL SAFETY - 6-7FALL SPORTS WRAP UP -12

NEWS

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2November 6, 2009

East has taken on a new class this year that readies students

for the future. Advancement Via Individual

Determination, AVID, is a college preparatory program that encourages students to take more rigorous courses.

“AVID is a program for students who get by with straight B’s and C’s,” Darham Rogers, AVID instructor, said.

AVID students are generally from low income or minority families and are sometimes the first in their family to go to college.

Rogers teaches the new class, which district schools have been adding to their curriculums for the last eight years. The first district school to include AVID was North; East is last.

“We’ve done a good job targeting higher level students and we’ve done a good job targeting lower level students,” Rogers said. “But there are a lot of students falling through the cracks.”

AVID encourages students to take harder classes to get to college. One way it does this is through tutorials.

“(Tutorials are) when we bring in questions on whatever we’re studying, and whatever we have trouble in,” Trenton Steiner, fr., said. “Then college students come in and help us study it.”

Students are encouraged to take harder classes, including taking one AP class by their junior year.

The class also helps the students use organizational skills for their classes. Students are required to keep a binder with a set number of notes from each of their normal classes in it.

“It helps with strategies for your classes like taking notes and being organized with your things,” Daniel Santos, fr., said.

Other activities include visiting college campuses, talking to

professors, and playing games that encourage team effort.

Since this is the first year AVID has been around it is only available to freshmen. Steiner and Santos are currently two of 26 freshmen enrolled in AVID, all in the same third hour period. Next year, two freshmen classes will be added as well as a higher level for next year’s sophomores.

“It helps us know what we’re talking about and makes sure we don’t have problems,” Demmetriah Grant, fr., said.

Drama dept. prepares for ‘Once Upon a Mattress’IAN BAILEY, REPORTER

Students prepare for college in new classAARON HEIL, REPORTERMESSENGER

WICHITA HIGH SCHOOL EAST

STAFFEditors-in-ChiefJohn CamenzindJeremy Koehler

WebmasterJenice Duong

Advertising ManagerSavana Cross

ReportersIan Bailey Ashley MatthewsEmma Gillespie Kierstin McMichaelLauren Graber Brae MinerEvan Gottstine Donald PepoonAaron Heil Suhayla SibaaiSalman Husain Jessica ThomasVioletta Lopez Colin White

Head PhotographerAshley Matthews

VideographerMonique Levy

EDITORIAL POLICY“The Messenger” is published in print every two to three weeks, except during vacations, by the Journalism staff of Wichita High School East, 2301 E. Douglas Ave., Wichita, KS 67211. The Journalism department can be reached at (316) 973-7275 or by fax at (316) 973-7224.

“The Messenger” staff will publish news, entertain-ment, features and sports in an unbiased and profes-sional manner and serve as a public forum for the students of Wichita High School East.

Letters to the Editor may be submitted to room W301 or by fax, and must be signed, legible and concise. The staff reserves the right to edit letters to conform to “Messenger” style. Baseless accusations, insults, libelous statements, obscenity, and letters which call for a disruption of the school day will not be considered for publication.

“The Messenger” is the official student newspaper of Wichita High School East and it is distributed free to students. The opinions expressed in this publication reflect those of the student writers and not the Board of Education or Wichita High School East administration, faculty, or adviser.

ON THE COVERIn recognition of Red Ribbon week, Students Against Driving Drunk member Emily Ivy, jr., ties red ribbons to car antennas, Oct. 2, to remind students not to drink and drive. ASHLEY MAT-THEWS, HEAD PHOTOGRAPHER

A mute, a power-hungry Queen, a rubber chicken, and a pea.

These are all just a few elements in the upcoming production of the musical, “Once Upon a Mattress.” The show is presented by the theatre department, and will be held on Thursday, November 19, through Saturday, November 21. The show begins at 7:30 p.m.

“The show is pretty much the story of ‘The Princess and the Pea.’” Aaron Elliot, sr., said “But in this

version, the Queen had laid out a law that no one may wed until Prince Dauntless gets married. It’s basically the story of how Dauntless gets married.”

Leading roles include Cora Kilgour, sr.; Kassiani Meneas, jr.; Keaton Jadwin, jr.; Erin Isherwood, sr.; Harper Bottorff, sr.; and Ian Depriest, jr.

“I don’t know all the people (in the cast) yet, so to see how they portray their characters will be really

rather interesting,” Elliot said.The show will be held in the East

Auditorium, is open to the public, and admission is $6 for students and $8 for adults.

“I’m excited for the set that’s being planned right now,” Elliot said. “I think it will look really nice once it’s completed.”

The production is directed by Derrick Gronewold and Doug Riney.

Monday Madness!!!!

GET A BAG OF FRESHLY BAKED CHOCOLATE CHIP COOKIES AND BEVERAGE OF CHOICE, ALL FOR JUST $2.50

12:30-6 P.M.-M, Th, F 4:30-7:30 P.M.- W 10-6 P.M. Sat.

Guest speaker Ellie Galindo, a graduate of Wichita’s first AVID program at North relates his experience to East’s freshmen class. HALEY SHELTON, PHOTOGRA-PHER

3November 6, 2009NEWS


StuCo holds events to raise money for United Way Week

Non-school daySchool will not be in session Nov. 11, due to the Veteran Day holiday.

SmugMugPhotos taken by Journalism staff can be purchased at http://www.wichi-taeast.smugmug.com/.

Sports practicesFall sports practice will wrap-up Nov. 6. Winter sports practices commence Nov. 16; a physical is required to practice.

Club photosAll club photos will be taken, Nov. 24 in the east auditorium. Passes and times will be given to club sponsors.

Blood driveStudent Council hosted a Red Cross blood drive Oct. 23. Seventy-five units of blood were donated.

YEKYouth Entrepreneurs of Kansas participated in their annual Market Day, Oct. 27 on the front lawn and Oct. 29 in second floor main hallway due to rain.

Band departmentThe marching band participated in both Band-O-Rama, Oct. 26 and the Southern Plains Marching Festival, Oct. 28. Band received a 1 rating, flags received a 1+ rating and percus-sion received a 2 rating.

DECADECA members competed at the

Hughes Metroplex against other Wich-ita, Oct. 28. East did well at the com-petition with 20 of the 47 students in attendance winning a medal. East had winners in 13 of the 15 events and swept three of the events.

Students took written exams and participated in role play scenarios which tested their marketing/man-agement knowledge, expertise in a career field and their professionalism. French National Honor SocietyFrench National Honor Society will celebrate French week, Nov. 3-10.French National Honor Society sold crepes Nov. 4 and made masks Nov. 6. Funds raised were given to a char-ity in Haiti.

Students Against PrejudiceStudents Against Prejudice hosted their annual Diversity Day, Oct. 16. Diversity Day allowed students to participate in events and to share experiences. They participated in an alert day to make others aware of stereotypes. With Film Club, Students Against Prejudice will host a showing of “Do The Right Thing,” Nov. 6 in W223 after school.

Scholars BowlScholars Bowl hosted the East Invite, Oct. 31. The next tournament will be Nov. 7.

Heights spirit showThe varsity cheer squad will partici-pate in the annual Heights spirit show at Wichita High School Heights, Nov. 10 at 6 p.m. This is their first competi-tion this season.

Drama departmentThe drama department will present

the musical, “Once Upon a Mattress”, Nov. 19-21. Tickets are $5 for stu-dents with ID and $8 otherwise.

YouTubeVideos recorded by Journalism staff can be seen at http://www.youtube.com/EHSMessenger/.

EHSMessenger.comArticles written for “The Messenger” and exclusively online can be viewed at http://www.ehsmessenger.com/.

Are you a club president or club sponsor?If so, e-mail us with news about your organization’s upcoming activities, fund raisers, or special recognition at: [email protected]

NEWS IN BRIEF

Tyler Malter, jr., as the Red Cross blood drop, relaxes blood donors, Oct. 23. CASSIE FAGEN, PHOTOGRAPHER

Sonam Bhakta, sr., Eden Maack, soph., Antonia Davidson, sr., and Steven Maack, English instructor, participate in an activ-ity on Diversity Day, Oct. 16. ASHLEY MAT-THEWS, HEAD PHOTOGRAPHER

Shenell Carter, sr., DeMarius Brown, sr., Patrick Stevens, jr., and Tyler Fowler, sr., roast marshmallows at a DECA camp out at Rock Springs 4H Camp, Oct. 1. MARIAH MILES, PHOTOGRAPHER

United Way Week was held this week, Nov. 2-6 in hopes of

beating the $6100 raised last year.“We always want to increase

school spirit and pride—that is always a key focus,” Roberta Kerr, Student Council sponsor said. “We also like to beat the previous year’s total money raised, and, of course, beat other high schools.”

Change wars were held Monday through Friday; the class that raised the most money will be an-nounced at the end of today.

“Change wars are fun and com-petitive so it encourages students to participate,” Kelly Vu, junior class officer, said. “At first it‘s all about donations, but by the end of the week classes get very competi-tive because they want to win.”

Thursday was the junior spon-sored powder puff game; junior girls competed against senior girls

in a game of tag football. The senior sponsored Mr. Ace

contest will be held today during seventh hour.

“I think it’s cool, because the guys get to dress up as girls for once,” Daniel Silva, jr, said. “I’m going to do it next year.”

Instead of the ever popular pig kissing contest held last year, freshmen have come up with a new United Way Week activity, “Singing Administrators.” Students voted earlier this week and today the administrator with the most votes will perform the song with the most votes as the opening act of the Mr. Ace assembly.

“A lot of time goes into it: prac-tices, rehearsals, skits for Mr. Ace, announcements, ticket sales, and making flyers and posters for pro-motion,” Kerr said.

SUHAYLA SIBAAI, REPORTER

John Reed III, sr., puts money into containers held by Shemika Cannon, sr., and Tina Siriphong, fr., for change wars, held Nov. 2-6. Coins added points to each class total, while bills subtracted from each class total. ASHLEY MATTHEWS, HEAD PHO-TOGRAPHER

JENICE DUONG, WEBMASTER

4November 6, 2009 ENTERTAINMENT


“The Battle for Bunker Hill” was one of the best movies of

this year, focusing on the behavior of people in the face of change. Haven’t heard of it? Not surprised, it’s an independent movie.

From “Fight Club” to “Lawrence of Arabia” to “Up,” movies have dominated mainstream America for years. Alone, they grossed

$9.79 billion and around 1.38 billion admissions were sold in 2008. With numbers like these, it would be ridiculous to say movies do not play a large role in American pop culture. But how many independent movies are lost in the extremely competitive and expensive world of movies?

While part of the blame can be

given to the large corporations only supporting big name directors like Quinten Tarantino, Steven Spielburg, and Michael Bay, the blame mainly lies with the consumer.

As few may know, Wichita hosts the Tallgrass Film Festival. The festival, founded in 2003, is the largest film festival in Kansas,

previously based at the Old Town Warren Theatre. Here, each screen showed different movies, and was convenient due to comfortable seats, concessions, and the ability to quickly get to another movie. But, in 2008, Bill Warren, founder if the theatres, decided not to sponsor the Festival anymore, days before the festival was to begin. Tallgrass Festival quickly found other venues to play the independent movies, scattered across downtown Wichita, creating problems with transportation for viewers.

And here is the fault of us, the consumers: Although we may have demanded the $15,000 movie “Paranormal Activity,” which is now at the top of the charts, we have not demanded other independent films. While independent films continue struggling to survive in festivals such as Tallgrass, without the sponsors to support the festival, because consumers will not go to watch the movies, independent films will not even be near as abundant as they are today.

So, the next time you don’t have anything to do, or are planning something to do on a Friday night, check the paper or the internet for these films. You may be surprised with what you find.

‘The Stepfather’ doesn’t live up to original’s expectationsIf you’ve already seen

“Disturbia” you’ve basically seen “The Stepfather.” That is not to say, however, that if you haven’t seen “Disturbia” that this movie would make a good substitute.

When it all comes down to it, “The

Stepfather” is in no way original. Both story and overdone clichés are copied throughout the film, and although a decent ending in terms of action exists, a slow moving and predictable story takes the potential that “The Stepfather” could have had and throws it into the fire.

The opening scene depicts a seemingly typical morning for the antagonist (Dylan Walsh). All seems to be well until the camera floats over the dead bodies of a mother and three children, revealing darker intentions.

The plot really gets moving when the stepfather meets Susan Harding (Sela Ward), and over the course of a few days they begin to date. The movie then time skips to the arrival of the film’s main protagonist Michael Harding (Penn Badgley) who has been away at military school for the past year. At a surprise homecoming party he meets the stepfather, who at this point is supposed to actually become his stepfather.

Throughout the movie the stepfather, under the alias David Harris, attempts to befriend Michael, but he begins to question

his new to-be-parent, and Harris’ connection to a serial-killer stepfather (shown in the opening scene) becomes very apparent. This all leads to a somewhat decent ending, though the movie leaves much to be desired.

Although “The Stepfather” had some potential, far too many flaws that kept it from being all it could be. The movie is marketed as a horror that will keep viewers on the edge of their seats for two hours, when in fact every attempt it made at being terrifying was laughable. Most ‘scary’ moments are merely Harris showing up in the background when something happens, making him more ominous and somewhat annoying than horrifying.

A big flaw would definitely have to be the lack of attention put in towards the characters’ actual intelligence. To put it simply, most characters seem to be less intelligent than your average rock. In a diner scene, Harris and Harding are wrapping up lunch, when Harris makes a reference to his alias family and mixes up the names of his fake daughter and one he killed. One would think that a

serial killer would be a bit smarter than to make this mistake, but apparently that is not the case.

Some of the more scary (if that word can even be used) elements of “The Stepfather” are the killings of people that question Harris’ identity, and although they may be there to further the story, ultimately they tend to make the plot even slower and add to the slow wit of the characters. The murdered people are particularly open with their accusations, and it seems odd that only Michael Harding is able to make a connection between these characters and Harris.

“The Stepfather” is generally disappointing. Whether it is the fact that knowing Harris is the killer from the beginning, the character’s lack of intelligence, a slow moving story, or perhaps all these and more, “The Stepfather” takes its potential and produces an experience that isn’t really scary or for that matter entertaining. There are without doubt better horror flicks to spend money on besides it. Word is “Paranormal Activity” is good.Harris prepares for a kill in “the Stepfa-

ther.” Photo from mctcampus.net.

Independent films overshadowed by Hollywood movies

COLIN WHITE, REPORTER

EVAN GOTTSTINE, REPORTER

5November 6, 2009EDITORIAL


George Washington said in his farwell adress, “steer clear

of permanent alliances with any portion of the foreign world.” Our nation’s original foreign policy was founded on the concept of isolationism, the idea that staying out of the affairs of other countries best serves the interests of the U.S.

As we developed as a super power and increased relations with other nations, the popularity of isolationism has faded. Unlike economic or social issues, foreign policy doesn’t have as much of a political attachment; there is no Republican or Democrat foreign policy. However, the manner in which the U.S. interacts with other countries in the global community can change drastically from president to president.

President Obama and Secretary of State Hillary Clinton have adopted a foreign policy which differ in some ways from the Bush administration’s. Committed to a reduction of troops in Iraq, proposing ways to deproliferate nuclear arms with countries such as Russia and hungrily pursuing diplomatic cooperation with various members of the international

community, Obama’s foreign policy has been marked with little tension and threats.

An example of foreign policy where the Obama and Bush administrations’ stance remains fairly similar involves American relations with a country 90 miles off the coast of Florida. The cold, isolated history between the U.S. and Cuba has lasted

for decades. When Fidel Castro, former president of Cuba, gained power in the late 1950s, President Eisenhower took action to crush his strength. He approved a policy which placed an embargo against Cuba, severing significant economic and political ties with the neighbor.

As American presidents throughout history have continued the lineage of leadership, the embargo against Cuba has

remained consistent. The original purpose of the embargo was to prevent American trade and supplies from strengthening the Communist system. The 51 year old embargo has also evolved into a statement against the human rights abuses of the Cuban government. Add a violent, oppressive ruler to the mix and the difficulty of the situation is amplified.

This October, the 187 countries of the United Nations voted to end the American embargo for the 18th consecutive year on the grounds that isolation from Cuba has only intensified the suffering of the Cuban people and denied access to necessary food, medicine and other American resources. Only two other nations joined the U.S. in its stance against Cuba. Although our nation’s leaders and politicians overwhelmingly advocate the importance of a continued embargo, the opinions of the American people have progressively split over the years. Many people view the embargo as necessary to send Cuba a message that the U.S. won’t condone its oppression, while others believe that the embargo is

an outdated, bigoted policy. The problem arises when citizens

hope to harbor any change or produce any impact in the way our government represents our country in the global arena.

The harsh reality is that as individuals, our power is limited. If people are truly resolved about any issue that requires the involvement of government, they must be determined and willing to take action. Groups and motivated individuals have often organized demonstrations and meetings to express their ideas of how the government should act. Realistically, the best way to have any impact in the way our government acts in foreign policy is through our choice of leadership. Citizens who appreciate less strict relations with Cuba, for instance, probably made the right choice in voting for Obama, especially because of his effort to reach out to the Cuban people. Whether or not you believe the U.S. is correct in its stance against Cuba, you must be motivated, active and cast the right ballot if you hope to have any impact in our country’s foreign affairs.

Growing up is hard. Imagine how much more challenging

the experience becomes when your parents get a divorce. Now add around-the-clock cameras documenting your every habit and move, ever since your birth. It may sound like a soap opera, but in reality it is one family’s life right now.

The Jon and Kate Gosselin fiasco of the popular TLC show “Jon and Kate plus 8” features the large Gosselin family, composed of the two parents and their eight children: one set of twins and one set of sextuplets.

The show, initially documenting the struggles and triumphs of raising eight children, is now becoming the medium upon which the Gosselin parents argue. Even at a young age, children can sense emotions and what they pick up sticks to them. These eight children have been on TV before they could even talk, and that must be tough to handle this early in their childhoods.

The Gosselin’s have essentially become the mainstream poster family for when a divorce begins to go badly for more than just the parents – the entire family, too.

Announcement of the divorce caused heavy media speculation on both Jon and Kate’s relationships and the custody of the children.

The children should remain the initial concern when going through

the process of divorce, especially when involving a large family such as John and Kate’s. It is unfortunate that two people who once loved each other and had a close relationship now feud publicly over money, assets, and who did what wrong. The increased media coverage doesn not help either.

Many celebrities like Lindsay Lohan and Drew Barrymore have had bad experiences from being in the spotlight at a young age. This should serve as an example to parents who consider show business as a way of life for their families.

Divorces can help a family that experiences marital frustration, but if family attitudes turn spiteful separation can also be detrimental, which in turn can affect the mental health of the children.

Divorce is intimate in peoples’ lives, and should be treated with respect instead of everyone else judging another family’s decisions. It should not be something to be ashamed of if it is the best decision for a family overall. However, the negative attention may eventually catch up with the children, their mental health, and their outlook on the value of marriage.

“We found that children of so-called “good” divorces often do worse even than children of

unhappy low-conflict marriages -- they say more often, for example, that family life was stressful and that they had to grow up too soon; and they are themselves more likely to divorce -- and that they do much worse than children raised in happy

marriages,” Elizabeth Marquardt, author of Between Two Worlds: The Inner Lives of Children of Divorce, said.

Parents should consider the long term psychological effects of involving their children in show business before their children get the opportunity to choose what they want for themselves. The media should not place as much negative emphasis on the children’s lives because they are not at fault in the situation.

‘Jon & Kate Plus 8’ divorce puts children in media spotlight

Citizens should consider foreign policy when voting for leaders

KIERSTIN McMICHAEL

FOR THE STAFF

SALMAN HUSAIN

REPORTER

6November 6, 2009 FEATURE 7November 6, 2009FEATURE

On April 20, 1999, tragedy struck Columbine High School

in Littleton, Colorado. Students Eric Harris and Dylan Klebold shot and killed 12 fellow students and one teacher before taking their own lives. In the 10 years since the shootings, schools across the coun-try have dramatically increased security.

From installing metal detec-tors to banning backpacks, many schools have gone out of their way to ensure that students are provided with a safe environment to learn and grow. Many students say that East does not provide the safety schools should.

“It worries me that the front doors are never locked during the school day, and we don’t have teachers guarding every door,” Jer-rikka Williams, jr. said. “Teachers don’t stop strangers in the hallway; they just ask who they are and let them through. It would be easy for someone to just show up and knife or shoot a lot of students.”

According to security regula-tions, teachers are asked to greet

visitors, ask them their purpose for visiting the school, and direct them to their destination.

Other students say that while they feel safe at school, East secu-rity could be improved.

““I feel safe because I do not have problems with anyone at East,” Eduardo Lopez, jr., said.

Andre Jones, jr., saw a higher emphasis placed on security at the last school he attended.

“When I lived in Texas we had to go through metal detectors every day before school,” Jones said. “They do help stop crime. When students know they will be searched, they are less likely to sneak weapons into school.

Metal detectors are used for major sports events around the district at this point, but providing them to every school in the district raises financial concerns. School Resource Officer John Biagini said metal detectors would be a logisti-cal problem.

“There are so many entrances, and we would have to have a metal detector and security guard at

every entrance,” Biagini said.According to Biagini, students

are responsible for reporting weap-ons at school.

“If anyone gets a whisper of guns they let security guards know, and we take care of it,” Biagini said. “Students don’t want weap-ons at school; they want the school to be safe.”

Herschel Funk, sr., has first hand experience with East security officers.

“I got in a fight in a classroom once, and a teacher broke it up,” Funk said. “A security guard was there right away to escort me to my administrator. I didn’t appreci-ate it because I wanted to finish the fight.”

Along with 18 security cameras located throughout the school, Biagini said the help of students is necessary for continued crime prevention.

“A lot of it comes down to stu-dents not being afraid to report crimes or weapons at school,” Biagini said. “(Students) help us protect (themselves).”

Security guard Tim Jacobs reviews footage from a security camera. ASHLEY MATTHEWS, HEAD PHOTOGRAPHER

How safe are you at school?

1

A History of School Violence

1 August 1, 1966University of Texas(Austin, Texas)

Charles Whitman, a former Marine and University of Texas student, killed his mother and wife before proceed-ing to the University of Texas Austin campus. Whitman barricaded himself in the tower and killed 13 more peo-ple before taking his own life. PHOTO COURTESY OF MCT CAMPUS

2 April 16, 2007Virginia Tech University(Blacksburg, Virginia)

Virginia Tech students gather at a makeshift memorial hours after Seng-Hui Cho, a senior at the school, killed 32 students and professors before taking his own life. PHOTO COURTESY OF MCT CAMPUS

3 March 21, 2005Red Lake High School(Red Lake, Minnesota)

Law enforcement officers block off a road in Red Lake, Minnesota after a school shooting. Jeffrey Weise, a 17-year-old student at Red Lake High School shot his grandfather and his grandfather’s girlfriend before pro-

ceeding to the school and shooting a security officer guarding the en-trance. Weise shot five students and one teacher within the school before taking his own life. PHOTO COURTESY OF MCT CAMPUS

4 March 24, 1998Westside Middle School (Jonesboro, Arkansas)

Patricia and Dennis Golden leave Craighead Detention Center where their son, 13 year-old Andrew Golden, was detained. Golden and 13-year-old Mitchell Johnson pulled a fire alarm and then sniped classmates and teachers from a wooded area as they evacuated the building. Four students and one teacher were killed. PHOTO COURTESY OF MCT CAMPUS

5 April 20, 1999Columbine High School(Littleton, Colorado)

Eric Harris and Dylan Klebold are seen in the school cafeteria of Col-umbine High School moments before they took their own lives. PHOTO FROM GETTY IMAGES

2 3

5

4

JOHN CAMENZIND, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

JEREMY KOEHLER, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Have you ever brought a weapon to school?

No68%

Yes32%

Do you know someone who has brought a weapon to school?

No91%

Yes9%

Have you ever brought a weapon to school?

Do you know anyone that has brought a weapon to school?

Of 100 East students polled, 9 percent said they had brought a weapon to school. Weapons were specified as guns, knives, and brass knuckles.

Of 100 students polled, nearly one third said that they knew someone who had brought a weapon to school.

SPEAK OUT“(People) don’t want to bring weapons to school because they’re afraid that they will get in trouble.” Larell Marion, fr.

“I don’t feel safe at school. There are a lot of thugs around here. They just walk around with saggy pants and act-ing like gangsters.” William Wilson, jr.

“I definitely feel safe because I have my friends by my side and I never start anything.” Shayla Simpson, jr.

“Teachers need to get to know stu-dents. If the teachers are scared, the students are going to start fighting. A lot of people come to school just to start drama instead of getting an education. When you tell a teacher about an upcoming fight, they say they’ll do something and they don’t.” Erick Devora, jr.

“I feel safe because I am a peacemaker and I get along with everybody.” Shamari Ramirez, sr.

1

8November 6, 2009 FEATURE


SHOES

TOPS

BOTTOMS

ACCESSORIES

You can tell a lot about a person by what they wear on their feet, and these trends will definitely have people looking.

Style changes often and trends are hard to keep up with. Most designers are flipping through the pages of history books and are working the ’90’s look into modern day clothes. From ripped up jeans to slouchy berets, say goodbye to retro; grunge is back.

BOOTS

KNIT HATS

Accessories are important to tie your outfit together. They can sparkle, shine, be dark, bright, big or tiny. No matter what, they are essential.

New and unusual trends are forming, and a lot of old trends coming back. These are some cute ways to look good and keep your legs covered this fall.

fall fashion GRUNGEDISTRESSED JEANS JEAN

LEGGINGSSKINNY JEANS

LEG WARMERS

VANS HIGHTOPS

BOWS AND FLOWERS

Short, tall, black, tan or white. Color and shape don’t matter. Just tuck in your jeans and you’re ready to go.

Ripped and acid washed jeans are in and they’re so easy to get your hands on. Just grab a pair of old jeans and rip them up, splatter bleach on them, sew on patches. It is fashion-able and cheap

Luggy bonnets, slouchy berets, knit caps are in. Every color, every pattern, the brighter the better.

ANIMAL PRINT

Wearing pants is so overrated. Leggings and a long T-shirt are in. It won’t keep you as warm but you’ll definitely be freezing with style.

Slip-on, simple, no laces, comfortable, cheap and colorful. The many styles and colors and the combinations are limitless.

You don’t have to be skinny to wear skinny jeans. They make you appear long and slender.

Almost every brand of shoe has a form of hightops. The best part is, no one will know if you’re wearing dirty socks. They come in millions of styles and colors but simple white will match anything.

Boring hair clips are out. Big, bright, bows and flowers are what everyone is talking about, and they don’t just have to be used for keeping your hair out of

your eyes.

If you have boots, you should invest in leg warm-ers. Stick them out of the top of your boots over your favorite pair of jeans.

SWEATERSTogether? Yes! Flannel plaid will keep you warm and will give you the grungy lumberjack look, while the stripes add a feminine touch.

PLAID AND STRIPESThey’re soft, warm and cute.

It’s not cold enough for a coat, and not warm enough to go

without sleeves. A sweater is a great compromise.

EMMA GILLESPIE, REPORTERVIOLETTA LOPEZ, REPORTER

Unleash your animal in-stincts. Zebra print, cheetah print, and tiger print are the most popular. The best thing is, they match with everything.

The weather is getting colder, but you don’t have to sacrifice your style for warmth. Long sleeves are in, comfortable, and they will keep you warm.

9November 6, 2009FEATURE


Kenneth MaKenneth Ma, jr., works with his

family at Mix It Up, a yogurt shop on Douglas.

“I serve yogurt, make sandwiches, snow cones, and drinks, clean tables, and just try to make the customers relaxed and happy,” Ma said. “It’s the best job I’ve ever had. I get to choose my hours and get discounts and free food. Plus the whole environment is just really relaxed and fun.”

While many students may look for an excuse to spend less time with their family, Ma enjoys working with them.

“Working (at Mix It Up) makes me feel closer to my family,” Ma said. “We hang out a lot and just get to talk about our day. Sometimes people will bring in games and we’ll just play something while waiting for customers.”

However, working is not all fun and games. Ma said that working with his family provides him with new opportunities and lessons as well.

“Through working at Mix It Up, I have improved my social skills, common sense and overall learned how to work well with other people.”

Daniel Falk, soph., works with his parents at his dad’s law firm, the

Law Office of Falk and Cotton.“I sort through my Dad’s files, and

help with the maintenance of the place, like painting and replacing lights,” said Falk.

However, this job is not optional.“I have to do it, and I don’t get

paid. I never have to work too long so I guess it’s not that bad.”

Though Falk does not mind working with his family, he does not think it is beneficial either.

“I feel that it’s separating us, because it can be a stressful job. As much as I respect my Dad, we can argue a lot.”

Also, the current economic situation does not help things.

“Considering I don’t get paid, and I hear talk with the other workers, I can really feel the strain.”

Priya Bhakta, soph., works at the English Village Inn, her family’s

hotel on Kellogg. “I watch the office when customers

check in or out of the hotel.” Bhakta said, ”It’s kind of like the hotel is our house, so I’m there all the time.”

While some may think that having a constant flow of strangers coming in and out of your house may be freaky, Bhakta doesn’t feel scared.

“I feel safe because we have bullet proof glass, but it’s sometimes awkward since people don’t know what to do sometimes,” said Bhakta.

However, her social life isn’t affected by her work.

“I can still have friends over, because I pretty much work whenever I want.”

While she may live in the hotel, she chooses to work with her family. “Since I work with them I understand the business more, so I can understand them more.”

familyworking with

Considering the large number of students who have a job, many of these teens work with their family. Whether this is an

advantage or disadvantage is easily debatable.“I work at Genghis Grill with two of my cousins,” Timothy Dukes,

sr., said. “I think we are a lot closer because of it. Its fun to just joke around with them.”

But according to Dukes, the benefits of working with family go far beyond just having fun together.

“It really helped to have my cousins there since the restaurant is really busy. They helped me to know what was going on and to meet all the people there,” Dukes said.

However, not all students agree that working with family is an advantage.

“I would never want to work with my family,” Aaron Greenwood, sr., said. “My parents would be too crazy and restricting.”

Daniel Falk Priya Bhakta

LAUREN GRABER, REPORTER EVAN GOTTSTINE, REPORTER

10November 6, 2009 SPORTS


East’s basketball teams have consistently been one of the state’s elite, earning berths

in the State tournament practically every year and winning it all in 2005. However, from our home game atmosphere you would not have guessed it.

While student turnout for home games has been on par with other City league schools, it does not do justice to the type of success we have seen in recent years. Our student body should be able to pack the gym on a consistent basis.

From spirit assemblies, it is proven that the gym can not only be at full capacity with only students, but can also be deafening loud. Students and East High supporters need to create that type of atmosphere consistently, without the need of a spirit stick.

Unlike football, where 2,000 fans cannot create much of an atmosphere due to the size of the football field, a rowdy crowd in

basketball can cause mayhem for the opposing team. If one side of the gym’s stands were filled, it would be more than enough to make the arena intimidating.

Size is only one way our student section could improve. What separates a good student section from a great student section is the creativity and organization by the

students. College student sections are able

to organize themselves and come up with clever chants to shout at opposing teams. Kansas State yells a series of chants as the opposing team’s starting five is announced, a chant that pertains to each player.

The Hecklers should have weekly meetings brainstorming what they

are doing for the upcoming games. It could be like a club, consisting of those who are passionate about Ace basketball.

There are over 2,000 students at East, which makes it the biggest high school in the state. If a quarter of them showed up for every basketball game we would easily have the most intimidating arena in City League.

A quality basketball program from East deserves a quality fan following. The fan support needs to mirror that of the basketball team’s winning tradition.

Home basketball game atmosphere needs to improve

Students go nuts in hopes of winning the spirit stick at the fall pep assembly. ASHLEY MATTHEWS, PHOTOGRAPHER

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11November 6, 2009SPORTS


“National champion” is not a title most people simply

shrug off. Although Oliver Bradwell, sr.,

placed first in the 100m dash and second in the 200m dash at an AAU national qualifying meet last July, his unshakeable humility allowed him to fuel the soccer team’s drive to the State playoffs.

“I’m really a pretty relaxed guy,” Bradwell said. “I like to make jokes and have a good time at practice.”

And boy, have they practiced.Ranked third in the City with

a 6-2 win-loss record, the team prepared for the season rigorously.

“We were a good team already, and Bradwell made us three times better,” James Griffis, head coach, said.

Bradwell transferred from

Northeast earlier this year; however the transition hasn’t been difficult.

“Oliver fits in with the team

well and gets along with everyone,” teammate Kyle Sheahan, jr., said. “He can lighten the mood with his humor which goes along with our already great team chemistry.”

With citywide losses to only Southeast and Northwest, Bradwell helped the team dominate this season by scoring the second most goals in Kansas.

East’s Jorge Rodriguez, sr., led in statewide assists.

The team played Washburn Rural Tuesday in State quarterfinal competition but results were unavailable at press time.

“I think we proved to everyone that East does have a great soccer team which is capable of beating anyone in the state,” team captain Spencer Crouch, jr., said. “We hope to continue the tradition of excellence for East High soccer.”

Bend it Like Bradwell

BRAE MINER, REPORTERAARON HEIL, REPORTER

Date Opponent Score9/7 Emporia 0-19/9 South 3-09/12 Dodge City 3-59/15 West 3-19/17 South 3-09/22 Heights 7-19/24 Bishop Carroll 7-09/29 Southeast 0-210/1 North 3-110/5 Andover 3-010/8 Northwest 0-110/13 Andover Central 3-010/15 Liberal 1-010/17 Kapaun 2-010/19 Dodge City 2-110/26 Derby 2-111/2 Southeast 3-0

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Season highlightsaccording to Spencer Crouch

Beating Kapaun in overtime during the • City League matchup

Beating Liberal in penalties in the North • Cup semi-finals, beating Kapaun in finals, and then taking first place

Beating Dodge City in the last eight • seconds of the game with a game-winning free-kick by Gordo (Jorge) Rodriguez

Spencer Crouch, jr., punts the ball in a game against North.ASHLEY MATTHEWS, PHOTOGRAPHER

Oliver Bradwell, sr., dribbles the ball in a game against Southeast, Sept. 28. ASHLEY MATTHEWS, PHOTOGRAPHER

12November 6, 2009 SPORTS


CROSSING THE FINISH LINE

GolfThe girls golf team placed third

in the GWAL.

Players Andrea Sanders, jr., and Monica Shelton, jr., advanced to State.

“It’s been (a long time) since anyone has made it to State,” Shelton said. “We performed much better as a team this season.”

Cross countryThe girls team placed second at

City; the boys team placed third.

Girls Carlin Greene, fr., and Cate Dunn, jr., advanced to State. Dunn placed 13th, while Green placed 21st.

The boys varsity team, includ-ing runners Aaron Heil, soph., Will Marsh, jr., Jesse Parker, jr., Jacob Seamster-Davis, jr., David Perales, sr., Quentin Brown, sr., and Tanner Follis, soph., also ad-vanced to State. The team placed 11th.

TennisThe girls tennis team tied

for the second best win-loss record (5-2) in the GWAL.

Players Brooke Johnson, jr., and Drea Shaver, jr., advanced to State.

“The team has gotten a lot

closer this year and I feel like that has improved the way we’ve been playing,” Keertana Chary, jr., said. “For next year, I just really want to keep the team atti-tude, stay focused, and play better, of course.”

Football

VolleyballThe team placed fifth in the City

with a 7-9 record.

At the Sub-State tournament Oct. 24, East took Derby to three matches.

“We really came together and played as a team,” Lauren Wiebe, soph., said. “Next year we can hopefully do the same.”

Elana Reed, jr., and Giovanni Poland, sr., prepare to block a hit. MARIAH MILES, PHOTOGRAPHER

Monica Shelton, jr., swings at State golf. HALEY SHELTON, PHOTOGRAPHER

Reiley Pankratz, jr., hits at practice. JACK FREEMAN, PHOTOGRAPHER

Kristen Lumpkins, soph., and Carlin Greene, fr., compete at the Southeast Invitational Sept. 19. DARYAN COL-LING, PHOTOGRAPHER

Erick Heiman, sr., makes a pass in a game against Kapaun. CASSIE FAGAN, PHOTOGRAPHER

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Following is a wrap up of individual sports and how athletes placed at the end of the fall season.

The team finished ranked seventh in the City with a 2-7 record.

“Even though we didn’t win as many games as we did last year, we’re like a family and grew a lot closer this season,” Erick Heiman, sr., said.

Phone number - (316)-266-8434

Wichita East Messenger Vol.117 Issue 4

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Transcript of Wichita East Messenger Vol.117 Issue 4