Holiday recipes page 11
Building acceptance for gays and lesbians pages 6 and 7
Glencoe High School
Crimson Times
Volume 31 Issue 2
Thursday, December 16, 2010
Several students face homelessness this season
photo by SIERRA DUNGAN
Internet: the fresh way to read news by HANNAH JOHNSTON
For most Americans, Sunday mornings used to consist of grabbing coffee, sitting down and reading a newspaper. The coffee is still there, but for some people the paper has been replaced with a computer screen. More people now turn to the Internet for their daily news. “Our circulation is declining, but not at the same pace as others,” said Susan Gage, managing editor for The Oregonian. In contrast, The Oregonian has realized that the Internet is allowing numbers of online page views to rise. “We had over 230,000 people read a story on Oregon Live in one day,” Gage said. Gage points out that it is not a decline in reading news, but a slight decline in the purchase of newspapers. “It’s an overall societal shift to technology,” Gage said. “Some people’s lifestyles can no longer accommodate newspapers.” Since the new generation of youth is technologically savvy, many are used to getting their information right here right now. Many find that newspapers cannot do that for them. “I read them online because it’s more convenient. Newspapers just aren’t as accessible,” senior Angelita Maciel said. Universities are also realizing that in the world of iPods and smart phones many college students enjoy getting their news from an online site.
See INTERNET page 3
photo by ALEX OGLE Seniors Michelle Wright and Emma Hamel help sophomore Kyle Rhodes sort cans for this year’s canned food drive, which during the first week raised over 1,000 cans. said it was hard not being able to leave the conby BETHANY PAVLIK Homeless for the second time, senior Craig fines of the car. “The worst part for me was sitting in silence Wilson* is now forced to ask his friends to spend with my mom… I didn’t know what to say to the night at their houses. Last time this happened, her so we would sit for hours in silence,” Wilson Wilson was a sophomore and he and his mother said. were forced to live in their car. It was the worst Although he loved his position on the J.V. experience of his life. football team, he offered to quit so he could help Before his sophomore year started, Wilson earn money. was busy with football and was not aware of his “I told [my mom] I’d quit football and get a family’s financial decline. job if she wanted,” Wilson said. “I figured, ‘whatever.’ I thought it was going to His mom did not want him to give up on somebe okay. A few weeks later, we moved out of the thing he loved, so he remained on the team. house,” Wilson said. Unfortunately, between school, football, and Hillsboro only has two homeless shelters, and the bus ride to Tigard, Wilson did not meet the at the time, both were full. Wilson and his mother minimum time requirement to stay at the shelter lived in their car until a Tigard shelter was availand was kicked out. His mom was allowed to stay, able a week later. but he needed to find someplace else. He lived After school and football practice, he and his at friends’ houses until there was a vacancy at a mother would stay in the car for the night. Wilson Hillsboro shelter.
See HOMELESS, page 2
Disney Channel is a far cry from the halls of Glencoe by ANDREW ROGERS From the hills of North Plains to the set of the hit Disney Channel series “Hannah Montana,” Jason Earles has become one of Glencoe’s most well-known graduates. A 1995 graduate, Earles has acquired industry notoriety portraying Jackson Stuart brother of Miley Stuart on Hannah Montana. Earles’ time at Glencoe was incredibly busy, he said. He was involved in theatre, lacrosse, track, and was student council vice president. His student council duties photo submitted by JASON EARLES were the crazier ones, portraying Captain
Crimson and other characters, he said. “If it was crazy, I was the guy,” Earles said. His participation made a lasting impact on alumni like former classmate and science teacher Eric Fraser, as well as language arts teacher Marcus Glaze. “He put on a show,” Fraser said. “He was like Mitch [Marinello, current Captain Crimson] times a few factors.” Fraser added that despite his height of 5’3”, Earles took on a bigger stature during assemblies and was well known by the student body.
See Earles page 8
photo submitted by YEARBOOK
Page
2
News
C rimson T imes
Thursday, December 16, 2010
HOMELESS:
A season of giving to those less fortunate Continued from page 1
photo by ALEX OGLE Senior Michelle Wright and sophomore Kyle Rhodes make a can pyramid with some of the cans from this year’s canned food drive.
How students can help Spanish 2 teacher Katherine Paisley’s family relied on food boxes after her mom was laid off when she was in junior high. “A person’s need for this kind of generosity and community support is very much appreciated by those who receive it,” Paisley said. Donate directly: Students who wish to directly help other Glencoe Students in need can give cash or a check made out to Glencoe High School to book keeper Tanis Sanders in room 167. Hillsboro Family Resource Center: Throughout the year, the center accepts donations such as food, clothing, and school supplies, as well as money to help local families. They have volunteer opportunities available. For more information, visit youthcontact.org/Family_Resource_Center.html. Oregon Food Bank: J.V. Football Coach Peter Stein readily supports the food bank. “The best thing to do would be to give what you can to the Oregon Food Bank…. They are open all year. They are always taking food, and there are always hunger issues,” Stein said.
Upcoming events Local events to check out and try
Scuba -- For anyone who has wanted to enjoy life
under the sea, Scuba Diving lessons are available starting Jan. 8 at the Forest Grove Aquatic Center. Classes are open for ages 12 and up. “Scuba Diving is the only sport where you’re in a completely different environment,” Olivia Johnston, an employee of the Pacific Water sports foundation said. Six full sessions are provided after which the swimmer will have enough experience to explore the depths. For more info call (503) 642-3483.
-Janeen Anders
Free Geek -- Computer enthusiasts and gadget lov-
ers can volunteer at Free Geek, a non-profit Portland organization. Volunteers help “recycle” old computers by taking them apart and using the pieces to build new ones, which are donated to places in need, such as local schools. No prior computer experience is needed to participate, but volunteers under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult. To get started, tours of the Free Geek facility are available Tuesday-Saturday from 12-5 p.m. at 1731 SE 10th Avenue in Portland. Volunteers also receive a free computer from Free Geek in exchange for 24 hours of service. For more information, visit www.freegeek.org.
-Anisha Datta
Remaining on the football team turned out to be a good decision because it provided a distraction from his financial worries. In fact, football was such an effective distraction that now Wilson says all he remembers from that time is football. He also gained support from his fellow teammates. One player noticed that Wilson did not have slacks to wear when they dressed up for games, so he gave Wilson a pair. Another teammate purchased a pair of shoes for him when his others were too worn. J.V. football coach Peter Stein said he hopes Wilson will push himself and go to college. Stein has provided him with school supplies so he will not worry about school. “Craig keeps a good positive attitude. I know if he puts his mind to it he’ll be successful,” Stein said. Others need help, too Wilson is not the only student facing homelessness here. There are 11 homeless students at Glencoe according to counselor Michelle Buyas. About 200 students in the Hillsboro School District are in instable living conditions, according to Kristin Ludwig, a student advocate through the Hillsboro School District and Community Action. Community Action is one of many local non-profit organizations that help meet families’ needs. “We’re set up to try to help problems of poverty,” Ludwig said
Exotic Animal Expo -- With exotic animals from
around the world, Hillsboro’s Unique Animal Show and Pet Fair will take place at the Washington County Fairgrounds in February. The event, which is the oldest and largest animal show in the Pacific Northwest, is a family event open to people of all ages. Each year around Feb. 26-27, as many as 8,000 people have gathered to experience and view the different pet vendors. Donald Cossman, a retired zoologist who has been a part of the animal show for 16 years, said that although he favors reptiles, he finds all the animals at this show very interesting. “We’ve had porcupines from Africa, and other animals like anteaters, wallabies, lions, tigers, and alpacas,” he said. “The animal expo is a fun experience, as well as educational. It is a great place to learn about different animals and pets,” Cossman said.
-Karen Gonzales
Java Rock Cafe -- Providing opportunities for
high school students to perform original music, Insomnia Coffee Company is hosting Java Rock Café every other Friday from 9-11 p.m. At Java Rock Café, students can display their musical talents or simply enjoy the performances until the session ends in May. Indie rock tends to be the most popular type of music performed. However, all genres are welcome as long as lyrics are clean, according to Cindy Allen, coordinator of Java Rock Café. Students can apply to perform at Java Rock Café by delivering an audition tape to the Tyson Recreation Center, at 1880 NE Griffin Oaks St. Auditions can be submitted as late as
Nearly 340 homeless people in Washington County seek shelter every day, according to the Community Action website. Other people have stepped up to help Wilson get some of the necessities. Counselor Jill Riebow and Youth Contact counselor Stacey Henne helped him receive a grant for clothes this year. Stein encourages students to help when they can. “Everyone should look in their heart and give what they can to others,” Stein said. “We should be a global community.” There are many ways to help people, not all of them are financial. Ludwig explained the “one size doesn’t fit all,” system when a person wants to help. Some students need somenoe to talk to, others need school supplies, homework help, clothes, or food. Asking what people need is better than assuming what they have or do not have. Ludwig said that students should ask something like, “What would make your life easier?” She also explained it is important to build a relationship before trying to help someone. “It’s pretty hard for some people to make themselves vulnerable,” Ludwig said. *name changed to protect student’s identity.
the day before a performance, but sooner is better to ensure a spot. Insomnia Coffee Company is located at 5389 W Baseline Road in Hillsboro.
-Alex Flores
Hillsboro Cultural Arts Center -- Presenting
the opportunity to be taught by a professional rock guitarist, as well as expert musicians and artists, the Hillsboro Cultural Arts Center will be offering classes for teens this January. Local musician George Metts, who has played in Vans Warped Tour and opened for artists such as Alice in Chains, is teaching an Introduction to Rock Guitar class. The program is open to anyone ages 12 and up, but class size is limited. A Beginning Bass and Mandolin class, focusing on making new musicians comfortable with the subject, will be offered by touring musician Brian Oberlin. Ceramic major Jen Champlin will be teaching a pottery class in which students make 15 pieces during an 8 week program. The cultural arts center caters to both young and older artists alike, offering scholarships for students and displaying the work of young artists alongside the work of more experienced artists in its exhibits. Ceramics begins on Jan. 24, mandolin class on Jan. 25, and rock guitar on Jan. 27. Registration information can be found at the Hillsboro Cultural Arts Center at 527 East Main St. or online at http://www. ci.hillsboro.or.us/arts/wcac/classes.aspx.
-Samantha Matsumoto
C rimson T imes News-in-Brief Teacher and DJ creates club -- Newly formed DJ club is
working to create music for the break dancers, and assemblies, lunch jams, and maybe future school dances. Advisor, Ezra Ereckson has disk jockeyed for 25 years and has been featured in a couple of magazines. His band toured internationally and he ran a record label. Ereckson, who is also a new graphic arts teacher at Glencoe, started the club in October. Using his skills, Ereckson said he wants to help younger generations learn how to disk jockey. To get more information, Ereckson can be found in room 104 and 172. -Jasmin Razdik-Wilson
Disk Golfing -- Rated third in the world, a Frisbee golf course located near North Plains offers a place to be active this winter break. Horning’s Hideout offers three courses for players’ varying skill levels. The Highland course is the most challenging, while the Meadow Ridge and Canyon courses are both for beginners. The Highland course is equipped with solar panels, making night play available. Disc golf, as the game is officially known, requires skill and perseverance, said Jane Horning, who owns Horning’s Hideout. The object of this game is very similar to golf. Players throw a Frisbee into a tall metal basket from far distances and through obstacles. Directions to Horning’s Hideout are at www.horningshideout.com. -Kathryn Lambert
News
Thursday, December 16, 2010
INTERNET: making News more availiable Continued from page 1 “My generation gets online a lot. We don’t really pick up newspapers anymore,” Brandon Southward, Editor-In-Chief of The Daily Barometer at Oregon State University said. The acceptance of the shift to technology is the driving factor of Oregon State’s newspaper getting an online component. “Next semester we want to have an online part [of our paper],” Southward said. “We have had people say if we had stuff online [they would] read it more.” The year 2009 was known as “The year the newspaper died,” according to Business Insider, with over 105 newspapers going out of business. Although some newspapers were forced to shut down completely, others, such as The Tucson Citizen, went online as a way to save their paper. The Oregonian finds that the Internet is not the reason they have lost subscriptions. “Our revenue problems were due to the economy, not [going online],” Gage said. While many newspapers rely on their subscriptions to make money, The Oregonian realizes they cannot count on subscriptions as a main source of income. “Subscriptions are only part of our revenue,” Gage said. “We focus on advertising both online and in print.”
Newspapers now expect that some reporters to write only for print or newspapers. “Our reporters are expected to write all over print and online, we don’t segregate,” Gage said. “We do have some crazy stories that can only go online though they aren’t really print material.” While society is embracing an Internet news world, some readers feel it is just not the same as print. “Personally, I like to have a paper in my hand. I’m a little dismayed by it, but it is the way things are going,” Southward said. “You lose some of the [excitement] of being [on the] front page of the paper compared to front page of the website.” The Oregonian uses its website give brief updates and then a full story can appear later in print. “The Internet comes into play with issues such as the Kyron Hormann case; we had people all over the world reading online for updates. Then the next day we would have more of the investigative stories about the case; it was more in depth story telling than online.” While circulation in print was all about delivering the paper to readers, online circulation is about bring the reader to the stories. For their online stories The Oregonian uses search engine optimization, meaning they make sure the words in their headlines are words that will be used in search engines. This increases the number of people who can find stories that The Oregonian writes about. “We pay attention to search engine
Peacock Lane Lights --
With rotating Christmas trees and forests of candy canes, Peacock Lane in Portland is hosting a free event for people to view holiday decorated homes from Dec. 15-31. With no two houses alike, guests can expect millions of lights and even pay for a horse carriage ride. People should expect many pedestrians and bicyclists; no cars are permitted on Peacock Lane. Peacock Lane is located between S.E. Stark St. and S.E. Belmont and on block East of S.E. 39. This event starts at 6 p.m. and its festivities end at 11 p.m. -Carmen Walsh
Robotics Club -- For the first time, Glencoe’s newly founded Robotics club will compete against other Oregon schools on Jan. 1, in the FIRST Tech Challenge. Ten students have been meeting twice a week to try and create the best robot. Members are divided up in two teams based on their grade level. Each team will build its own robot. The FIRST Tech Challenge requires a robot to be directed by a game controller. In addition, the robots perform automatic tasks, such as picking up batons and traversing elevated terrain. “One of the things [about Robotics] is the amount of freedom given to us,” sophomore and team captain, Isshu Lee said. “We’re not told ‘This is how you make a great robot.’ We just try and figure it out ourselves.” Students interested in the Robotics Club or the FIRST Tech Challenge, contact Peter Schmurr, the club adviser in Room 196. -Spencer Summerville
photo by SIERRA DUNGAN
Robot Attack -- Powered by syringes and motors, robots built by students were completed earlier this week in physics classes. Physics teacher John Gibbs said this year’s goal was to design robots that could move blocks from the center of an arena to a score zone. Opponents could use their robots to prevent the other team from scoring and to remove opponents’ blocks. Gibbs said he has been doing this project with his classes since he moved here from Forest Grove High School in 1998. “I actually got this idea from a Forest Grove teacher,” he said. Every year Gibbs said he looks forward to seeing how students use different methods to solve the same problem. Results of the competition were unavailable at press time. -Kyle Venkatesan Fun New Year’s festivities Christy Bauer. Kakizome is the custom -- With glowing lanterns and chilly of writing traditional Japanese characweather, the Portland Japanese Garden will celebrate its New Year’s festivities on Jan. 9. Oshogatsu, as the celebration is known in Japan, is the traditional Japanese New Year’s celebration. “[Oshogatsu is celebrated with] traditional crafts such as calligraphy writing called kakizome, postcard making, and eating traditional foods,” said receptionist
ters to welcome in the New Year. Oshogatsu will be held on Saturday, Jan. 9 from 12-3 p.m. at the Portland Japanese Garden located on SW Kingston Ave. For more information go to http://japanesegarden.com. -Chris Phanthavong
Page
3
photo by SIERRA DUNGAN optimization,” Gage explained. “We make sure the headlines have good words so then Yahoo and Google can find them.” The shift online is becoming more prominent as today’s youth turn to the Internet more and more. However, the birth of the Internet does not necessarily mean the death of newspapers.
Library events -- With events such as movie and game days, the Hillsboro Public libraries have a lot to offer teens. Video games are now available at the libraries. Currently about 250 games for the major gaming systems are in circulation between the libraries, with plans to add more as time goes on. A lot of teens come to the library to do homework, but it’s also a place to hang out, reference librarian Hillary Garrett said. Movie days are held on a monthly basis at the Hillsboro Main Library. The first two “Chronicles of Narnia” movies will be shown on Dec. 29 and 30, 2-5 p.m. Snacks are almost always provided as well as occasional drawings for prizes. At the Shute Park Library, game days are held once a month with separate times for children and teens. The next game day is scheduled for Dec. 27 from 6-7:30 p.m. for teens. Craft workshops and other programs for all ages can be found on the schedule as well. For more information go to http://www.hillsboro.plinkit.org/ -Sarah Eggleston Powell performs -- English teacher Gary Powell will perform the role of the inspector in a murder mystery opening at Lakewood Theatre on Jan. 14. Powell’s character solves the crime resulting from a series of love triangles in the production of The Hollow, written by Agatha Christie. The theatre is located in Lake Oswego. Ticket prices start at $27. For more information visit: http:// www.lakewood-center.org/ -Natalie Maier
Page
4
Feature
C rimson T imes
Thursday, December 16, 2010
Chasing the college dream by NICOLE KULICK
LUZ CARAPIA:
F
ailing Advanced Junior English changed Luz Carapia’s life. Though she had always been an adequate student, she had never put a lot of effort into school. After failing, Carapia, now a senior, realized that she was worth more. Newly inspired, she threw herself into school projects, spoke up in class, and turned in all of her homework on time. “Something kicked in last year, her lights went on and she got excited about learning as much as she possibly could,” Duncan Wyndham, her former Advanced Junior English teacher said. “She realized she has good things to say, good ideas, and she’s become one of the of the most vocal [in her Humanities class].” Already a devoted reader of romance novels, Carapia challenged herself to read more substantial books. She pestered her mother to drive her to the library twice a week over the summer of her junior year, in which she read over 100 books. “My mom says I’m crazy to read so much,” Carapia said, “but for me it’s like a new world every time I open a book.” That summer Carapia, having fallen in love with literature, decided to pursue it as a career. She now plans to go to college, to double major in English and social work. She will be the first in her family to go to college. Carapia loves sharing the joys she takes in literature with her two younger brothers. She reads to them every night before bed. “I always saw it in movies –the par-
photo by SIERRA DUNGAN Luz Carapia (left) and Cristina Briones (right) plan on going to college despite the challenges they face. ents tucking their kids in at night and reading them stories. It’s something I really cherish, because I never had that experience as a child, and now I can give it to my little brothers,” Carapia said. Her family supports her college ambitions, though their ability to finance them is limited. “[My parents have always told me that they will] find a way to pay. I know they can’t, because they have my two brothers [to provide for],” she said.
CRISTINA BRIONES:
T
hough she has dreamed of going to college ever since she was a little girl, senior Cristina Briones knows that she might not get there. Neither of her parents have jobs that pay enough to finance a college education. Even with financial aid she comes up short. To fill in the gaps, Briones plans to work throughout her college years and is searching for scholarships, though this leaves her in a tenuous position. “I know I have to work for a schol-
arship. I have to,” she said. Despite financial difficulties, she said she does not feel discouraged, recognizing that she will have a better future if she puts in the effort to get an education. “We all want a good career and [the chance] to make money, but you’ve got to get a job to make money,” she said. Briones said she is also motivated by her family. As the eldest child, she is steadfast in the desire to make her parents proud. “I want to show them I can be someone,” she said. Briones also wants to serve as a positive role model to her siblings. She worries especially about her younger brother, who she hears talking about how college is not necessary. “I think [without my influence] he’d go to school just because [he had to],” she said. Like her friend Luz Carapia, Briones plans to major in two fields. A childhood of singing alongside her mother in church choirs and listening to her father play guitar has left her with a deep passion for music- her dream job would be to teach music to children. However, she recognizes that a career as a musician would not offer the level of financial security she wants. “It’s hard to make a living out of music,” Briones said. “I can go into accounting because I like it and I’m good at it,” Briones said. “But music is my dream.” Briones was intodruced to accounting by a scheduling mix-up. Although she had auditioned successfully for Concord Choir, the school signed her up for Accounting 1 instead. “If that hadn’t happened I wouldn’t have gotten to experience accounting, and I now really want to make it into a career,” she said.
Van Roekel raises, shows award-winning cattle After years of showing cattle, junior Logan Van Roekel has received many awards, won thousands of dollars, and traveled across the Northwest Roekel said. The higher a competitor places in a competition the more money they get for the animal when rize-winning cattle showmen, junior Logan it is auctioned off. The money Van Roekel receives Van Roekel has traveled across the North- from his cattle goes towards his college education. west and earned thousands of dollars while In order to achieve his success showing , he has to pursuing his hobby. complete vast amounts of work. Three generations before him already showing, it “It is a lot of work. There [are] early morning was nearly inevitable that he would, too. He entered feeds, halter braking, [training the animal to walk on into the world of cattle showa leash and dealing with] mising when he was just a todIt is an experience most kids behaving animals,” Van Roekel dler with aid from his parsaid. He recalls when he fracents. But in fifth grade when do not get. tured his femur when an unruly his parents no longer had to animal kicked him in the leg afbe in the ring with him, there was no stopping him. ter getting upset at his brother Drew. “We would travel all over the western states,” Van Roekel is a three sport athlete and takes care Drew Van Roekel, Van Roekel’s brother, said. of his cattle, he does not have a lot of free time on his The Van Roekel family would leave for about a hands. His days consist of waking up early to feed the week during the school year and take the cattle to cattle; going to school, reporting to practice, feeding the cattle again at night, doing his homework, and doshow cattle on the road from Colorado to California. “You get to meet new people from all over the ing it all over again the next day. “Logan has a tremendous work ethic. He works country. It is an experience most kids do not get,” Van hard at everything that he does whether its academics, Roekel said. sports, showing livestock or working on the farm,” As school and sports became more of a priority for Laurie Van Roekel, Van Roekel’s mother said. Van Roekel, he stopped traveling to shows. He now Even Van Roekel’s friends have noticed his consislimits himself to local shows competing against cattlemen from 4-H clubs around Washington County. tent work ethic. “Logan’s work ethic is not like all the other peo“Winning is always a really good feeling,” Van
P
by TINA ANDERSON
“
”
photo submitted by LOGAN VAN ROEKEL Junior Logan Van Roekel, an eight-time cattle champion, shows at the Washington County Fair each summer. ple’s, when Logan sets his mind to something he does it,” junior Ian Knight said. Van Roekel has a lot to do, but according to his family and friends, it’s all within reach. “I know if Logan keeps doing what he is, he will go far and do great things,” Drew Van Roekel said.
C rimson T imes
Thursday, December 16, 2010
Feature
Page
5
Dancing with the Staff
photos by SIERRA DUNGAN Senior Sonny Chang and social studies teacher Becky Kingsmith leapt across the stage, breakdancing to amaze the crowd. Top right: Senior Michelle Wright and social studies teacher Mark Ferris strike a gangsta pose. Bottom right: Senior Sarah Landis and P.E. teacher Tim Duvall wow the crowd with their hip-hop skills.
A night of hip-hop, ribbondancing and Jazzercise, Dancing with the Staff premiered Dec. 7, raising over $600 by CASEY DALEY
A
Above: Senior Anthony Pernisco and English teacher Kelly Greblo stike a pose in their Jazzercise routine. Below: Senior Hannah Johnston shows who is boss in her routine with science teacher Eric Peterson.
Top three teams: Champions: Becky Kingsmith and Sonny Chang 2nd Place: Mark Ferris and Michelle Wright 3rd Place: Tim Duvall and Sarah Landis
fter the chaos of coordinating wardrobes, finishing music mixes and polishing choreography, nine teams of students and staff spun, popped, and locked in the auditorium during the new event, Dancing with the Staff, Dec. 7. The event was developed by Taylor Gerst, for her senior project, benefiting the Oregon Food Bank. “I wanted a senior project that involved dance. Watching teachers dance is fun. Getting money for it to send to a good cause is better,” Gerst said. The proceeds from Dancing with the Staff will be contributed to the annual food drive, which Gerst hopes will help Glencoe win this year. Much behind-the-scenes work occurred to make the event run smoothly. Career counselor Brooke Nova, who was partnered with senior Luis Guerro, dancing in the styles of contemporary and hip-hop, said that she was nervous because she has problems remembering the routine. “I’m not good at dancing because I’m not good at remembering choreography,” Nova said. In addition to scheduling practices and overcoming nerves, teachers had to learn to dance in styles they had never experienced before. History teacher Becky Kingsmith, who was partnered with senior Sonny Chang, learned to dance in the styles of break dancing, hip-hop, and lyrical. “Sonny is a break dancer. I’m not. It’s been challenging to be at the same level as these young whippersnappers,” Kingsmith said. Teachers were not the only ones who
experienced challenges. Senior Sonny Chang said that because he usually freestyles, it was challenging to do a choreographed routine with a count structure. “Learning how to count [in sets of eight for choreography] rather than just freestyle was difficult,” Chang said. Social studies teacher Mark Ferris, who was partnered with senior Michelle Wright, said he enjoyed the experience because he, Wright, and Gerst worked together on the choreography and music. Ferris and Wright danced in the styles of swing and hip-hop. “It’s been great. I’ve collaborated and had help with the choreography from Taylor,” Ferris said, “She [Michelle] had ideas. I had ideas. Taylor had ideas. We all made suggestions. We got the music picked out and created the first two parts; they were not that hard. The hip-hop was hard because it was parts of three different songs.” Senior Michelle Wright said that while there were some difficulties making everything synchronized, it was a fun experience. “When we do the dance right, it’s really fun,” Wright said. In addition to Ferris and Wright, two other teams collaborated on the music. “We just brainstormed songs, picked out the ones we liked. Taylor helped,” Chang said. For English teacher Kelly Greblo and senior Anthony Pernisco, who danced a Jazzercise routine, selecting music was one of the most time-consuming parts of the process. “I stayed up until 1 a.m. listening to songs, Googling terms [to find more songs], being disappointed [by the results], and I slowly made a playlist of 20 songs. [Anthony and I] selected from that,” Greblo said.
Pernisco learned to push himself outside of his typical role as a student. “[I learned] to go outside of my comfort zone, [and do] stuff I’m not used to,” Pernisco said. Kingsmith had been giving up her prep periods to rehearse, so she had to do more of her school work outside of school. She still found the experience worthwile, she said. Greblo agreed the experience was fun. “It was a lot of fun, just pure fun. [It gives students an] opportunity to see their teachers in a more compatible setting,” Greblo said. Pernisco enjoyed Dancing with the Staff because he got to laugh and have a good time. “It was very fun, a lot of fun. [My favorite part] would [have to] be the laughing, having a good time, and not being too serious,” Pernisco said. Greblo said she and Pernisco wanted to make the dance a performance that was energetic and amusing. “I decided to make it our own, something that reflects our personality, rather than [the style of] Dancing with the Stars. If we can’t have fun, we’re not going to do this,” Greblo said. Pernisco got to see another side another side of Greblo that he said students don’t get to see during the school day. “Teachers have a different, funnier side, outside of school. The things they say, how they act is different [than during the school day],” Pernisco said. Kingsmith was excited to participate in this event because it gave her a chance to show the students another side of her, as well as to help a good cause. “Kids enjoy seeing their teachers in a fun light, rather than just as their teacher,” Kingsmith said.
Teachers have a “different, funnier side, outside of school.
”
Page
8
Feature
Thursday, December 16, 2010
C rimson T imes
by KIRA TIEMAN
SAT, ACT final deadlines approaching
EARLES: Alumni finds fame on Disney Channel
photo submitted by JASON EARLES Jason Earles poses with co-star Miley Cyrus, who plays the title character on “Hannah Montana.” Earles portrayed Jackson Stewart, Miley’s quirky older brother.
Continued from page 1 Glaze remembered him as an advanced student who was very involved. He added that Earles “looks exactly the same as in high school.” On the drama side, Earles was involved in several productions, including “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” and “House of Blue Leaves”. Former drama teacher Jeanine Stassens remembers Earles’ as a “fun loving” and talented student actor. “[In House of Blue Leaves], I remember the energy he had,” she said. “He was everywhere. He was so amazing.” Academically, Earles had good grades and was memorable to his former teachers, like health teacher Mike Springer. “He seemed like a person who would be successful,” Springer said. In college, Earles was a Biology and Theatre double major, and originally planned to go into veterinary medicine. After graduating, he moved to Hollywood to chase his dreams of being an actor. He knew he would never be able to pursue this dream at any other time in his life, he said. His success with Disney Channel did not come right away. Earles said he spent two years looking for an agent, being “used and abused” as an extra, and having little fun in the process. “[Extras] are treated like moving, eating scenery,” he said. “You get bitter after a while.” But after taking an acting class in Los Angeles, his instructor led him to work with Disney. After spending a year booking small parts in National Treasure and “Phil of the Future,” he was offered a chance to be in “Hannah Montana” – a role he almost did not audition for. “I thought, ‘That’s the stupidest name for a show ever. Who’s gonna watch that?’” Earles said. But within three weeks from his audition he was filming the first season. Earles said he loved the experience of working on “Hannah Montana.” He spent more time then he had expected on the show, bouncing off ideas with the writers for the final season.
Crimson Times 2010-2011 Editors in Chief: Bethany Pavlik (left) and Hannah Johnston (right) Production Manager: Rhyan McLaury Letters to the Editor: The Crimson Times encourages students to submit Letters to the Editor. Drop letters off in the Crimson Times boxes in the Attendance office and Library. Letters must be signed.
photo submitted by GLENCOE YEARBOOK Jason Earles, pictured here covered in mud, was a fixture at assemblies portraying charatcers like Safari Sam. This photo originally appeared in the 1995 yearbook. Being on “Hannah Montana” also allowed Earles to develop strong relationships with Disney. “The network really likes me,” he said. Earles is now working on a pilot for a new Disney Channel series entitled “Wasabi Warriors.” He writes for the show and is also the lead role. “I’ll have a lot of influence over the creative stuff on the show, like I’ll get to hang out in the writer’s room and pitch jokes,” he said. Long term, Earles’ only goal is to keep working and doing what he loves the most: acting. “I don’t want to get a real job,” he said. “I don’t want to wait tables between acting!” Staff Reporters: Crystal Hill Andrew Rogers Stephany Chum Casey Daley Matthew Kishlock Zach Havelind Tina Anderson Nicole Kulick Photo Editor: Sierra Dungan
Photographer: Alexander Ogle Business Manager: Chelsey Cole Publictiy Manager: Kira Tieman Webmaster: Robert Allen Advisor: Juanita Reiter
Seniors, you are almost done with the most stressful part of senior year. Your college applications should be sent in and now all you have to do is wait for the letter back. Try not to stress yourself out too much, and do not be afraid to open the envelope just because it is small. Some of the best gifts come in small packages. You should have already taken the SAT or ACT, but in case you have not here are some upcoming test dates: •The SAT is Jan. 22 and the registration deadline is Dec 23. •The ACT is Feb. 12 and the registration deadline is Jan 7. If your applications are due before you get the chance to take either of these tests, some colleges will still allow you to submit your application and send in your scores at a later time. To see if the colleges you are applying to allow you to submit your scores at a later time, contact the admissions office. If you have to send your scores in later, make sure you email the admissions office and let them know why you did not include your scores with your application. Being responsible and taking initiative will show the school you are applying to that you are really serious about your education, and you are not being a flake. Now that your college applications are sent in, it is time to crack down on those scholarships Start filling your free application for federal student aid (FAFSA) as soon as you can. You can start turning in your FAFSA on Jan 1, so do not forget. There are scholarships available for everyone on websites such as fastweb.com. Finding scholarships that you are eligible for is an extremely difficult task, but stay positive and be as specific as you can when searching for scholarships. The less money you have to pay out of pocket for college, the better. Be proactive and turn in your FAFSA as close to Jan 1 as you can. Stick in there and the hard work will be over before you know it!
C rimson T imes
MANIPULATION,
THE MEDIA
AND OUR
MINDS
Sexual messages in music, television and advertising are warping our perceptions of society and ourselves
M
by RHYAN MCLAURY
Opinion
Thursday, December 16, 2010
y little sister came home from school and told my mom she needed to buy new clothes at Abercrombie. She claimed that’s what all the cute girls in her class wear. She is only in 6th grade and is already concerned about her appearance and how that affects what people think of her. This is the effect of our media’s attack on our minds. Our culture is saturated with sexualized images in
movies, music and advertise- even if they lack the talent. ments. It’s become ridiculous, Our generation saw 1990’s pop and it is degrading our society. stars like Britney Spears, who Using sexualized images before she was even 18, was on to advertise entered into the stage skimpily dressed singing American culture within the lines like, “I’m not that innolast century as the media cent.” Everyone remembers gained more influence. While the Janet Jackson ‘wardrobe even in the early 1900s we had malfunction’ at the 2004 Super some nude celebrities and pin- Bowl halftime show that was up girls, movies still followed really no accident, only a marsociety’s standards of decency keting scheme. Today we have codes set by the Hays Commis- near-pornographic stars like sion, an indepenLady Gaga singIt’s become dent film rating ing lyrics like committee. For ridiculous, and it “I wanna take example, at least a ride on your one foot of space is degrading our disco stick.” was required society. Really? Really! between a man The majority of and a woman in the same bed, pop stars are exploiting and lustful or extended kiss- themselves to compensate for ing scenes were not allowed. lack of sincere lyrics or musiThese rules prevailed until the cal talent. Pop music today has 1960s when movie makers no sold out for sex, and it lacks the longer needed the approval quality that real music gives. of The Hays Commission to Children are being affectgo mainstream. The Alfred ed by this. T.V. shows today Hitchcock film Psycho showed aimed at 10-13 year olds are actress Janet Leigh in a bra now centered on much older and according to American teenage girls dealing with their Cinema/Art and Film teacher boyfriend drama. What hapMark Ferris, the movie was R pened to the good old Teen rated and “shocking” to society Nick shows like ‘All That’ and at the time. Movies followed Amanda Show’? Recent shows this increasing trend of sexual- are warping kid’s minds to ity and now R-rated films can make them believe that to be display complete nudity. cool you must be attractive and “[Movies today] have much act older than you really are. more latitude,” Ferris said. MTV is the epitome of our Production companies now over-sexualized media. Shows use the most attractive actors like The Real Life and Jersey and exploit them for shock val- Shore, depict the lives of lazy ue. Most guys remember the people sitting around arguing, scene at the end of ‘Transform- drinking, and yes, having sex. ers: Revenge of the Fallen’ These are the most senseless, with illustrious actress Megan mindless, and pointless shows Fox running in slow motion. one can see on TV today; and Though there was plenty of many high school students action going on all around her, adore them. With teens idoleveryone’s eyes were fixed on izing promiscuous characters something else. Did this scene like “Snookie” and “Jwoww,” have anything to do with the our generation doesn’t show movie? No. Did it make the much hope for a rational view movie sell? Yes. of sexuality, love, and how to Pop music uses sex in the live their lives. same way. Music production Sexualized images are used companies look for the young- most directly is in advertiseest and most attractive people, ments. For example, Axe com-
“
”
Page
9
mercials always have a good looking guy and with girls all over him. According to Sociology teacher Rebecca Clark, these attractive people are not only used to just grab attention, they’re sending an indirect message to consumers. “If we buy the product, we get to be those attractive people,” Clark said. Companies want to make us think buying these products, even if it is just cologne, will make us look beautiful or get attractive women. I am sorry, but no, no they won’t. Not only do these advertisements send false messages, they are warping men and women’s minds to base self-worth on physical appearance. While some may argue that all this is being blown out of proportion, what is in the media makes a powerful statement about our culture, according to Clark. “The fact that [sexual material] is in ads means it’s prevalent and accepted. It’s a good barometer of our society,” Clark said. People allow these advertisements to use sex to sell things because we continue to buy into it. We watch these movies, listen to this music and buy these products. These sexualized images are affecting people’s view of themselves and others. My hope is that Americans will become more aware and not let the sexualized culture warp their values and opinions. People need to live their lives free from the promiscuous road our society has taken. Demand more sincerity and our culture will head in a better direction. Morrie Schwartz, who was featured in the book Tuesdays with Morrie, emphasized that people need to create their own culture. “You have to be strong enough to say, ‘If the culture doesn’t work, don’t buy it.’”
Disease is more than inconvenient
At first, senior Hannah Johnston resented the diet restrictions after being diagnosed as a Celiac, until she learned that cheating on her diet could have serious consequences
by HANNAH JOHNSTON In a den on a couch, a 10-year-old girl lies writhing in pain for the fourth time that week. Her mother comes into the room and she attempts to sit up. Her diagnosis has been confirmed; the answer she has been waiting for the past year. That was me seven years ago, the
night I found out I had Celiac Disease. Celiac disease is an autoimmune disease that stops my body from absorbing nutrients from foods that have gluten, a protein found in wheat, rye, barley, and some oats. Ever since my diagnosis seven years ago, I have been forced to avoid foods that contain gluten. It can be hard and I used to cheat a lot, until I learned that a painful stomach is not the worst thing that can happen to me. Two years ago my parents noticed that I was sneaking Oreos from our pantry, a casual treat for some, but to me it was the tastiest thing I had had in years. My stomach had not been hurting so I thought that it was OK to eat them. That was not the truth; my mom told me that even if I was not showing symptoms, I was still hurting myself. I
asked how and she replied with everyone’s most feared word: Cancer. The intestines are lined with small hair-like objects called cilia; they help your body digest food. If you have celiac disease and you eat gluten, the cilia cannot absorb the nutrients and they get glued to the intestinal walls, which can produce a cancerous tumor. Since that day, I have been haunted by the thought that my past eating mistakes might result in a tumor. Every time I feel sick I am terrified that I have accidentally eaten something I should not have. At birthday parties if I know pizza is going to be the dinner of choice, I eat beforehand. Going out for pasta? I get a salad. When I was diagnosed, Celiac Disease was a very rare, only affecting about 1 one in 100
people, but it is becoming more common. Fortunately for me, this means that many restaurants are now serving gluten-free food. Though this disease is difficult and it makes going out to eat with my friends tough, I know that it is not the worst thing that could have happened to me. And each day that I wake up and get my gluten-free bread from my personal toaster, which no one else in my family uses so I do not get sick from accidently eating normal bread crumbs, I brace myself for another day of having to say no to food that people offer me. However, I have discovered other foods that I can eat that are delicious and good for you, like sushi, soy beans, and rice.
Page
10 Sports
C rimson T imes
Thursday, December 16, 2010
Winter
Sports
photos by ALEX OGLE The wrestling team, who were league champions last year, work to continue their present 2-0 record. The Tide hosted a seven-team tournament last Friday at Glencoe where last year’s district champion Trevor Mannen (right) was placed as the first seed.
The winter sports season has just started. Competing for the first time at the 6A level, teams show strong leadership and fresh promise
Junior Kurtis Campbell (center) and sophmores Maurice Cephus and Camden Wilkerson work on double team defense.
Boys Basketball
Seniors Trevor Mannen and Matt Teeter, both at 189 lbs, battle it out.
Wrestling
Freshmen Courtney Clayton begins the assault on the David Douglas defense.
Girls Basketball
Next Game: 7:15 tomorrow at Home vs West Linn Coach’s Corner with Matt Humphreys: According to Coach Humphreys, gaining junior Maggie Harlow and senior Emma Hamel were “Huge additions” to the team. Coach Humphreys said his favorite part of coaching the team is the individual players. “It’s understated about how great of people they are.” Seniors Players: Allysa Gillespie, Emma Hamel by RHYAN McLAURY, CRYSTAL HILL, and BETHANY PAVLIK
First Meet: Wednesday, Jan. 5 at Tualatin Coach’s Corner with Jason Harless: New teacher Jason Harless was recently promoted to head coach of the wrestling team, after being an assistant for four years. Harless said the current season has been going great, and is excited for what is to come. “We have [many] great leaders,” he said. Senior Wrestlers: Nick Aerne, Bryan Alvarez, Derek Baxter, Connor Callahan, Tyler Funk, Steven Galland, Zach Holmes, Mark House, Trevor Mannen, Brandon Sahlfeld, Cody Stock, Matt Teeter, Mark Trujillo
Ski Team
First Meet: Christine Cato Memorial Race, Jan. 8 at Timberline Coach’s Corner with Ray Beeber: “We’re in a rebuilding year, but our girl’s team has a chance to do pretty well,” Beeber said. According to Coach Beeber, about half the team is new to ski racing. His favorite part of coaching ski team is “watching them progress, win, get better, and have fun.” Senior Racers: Amanda Larkins, Makaela Boleen, Rhyan McLaury, Spencer Fishback
Next Game: 7:15 tomorrow at Liberty High School Coach’s Corner with Matt Schmidt: Early in the season and one win under their belt, Coach Matt Schmidt has high hopes for the team. “It’s still early and we’re trying to find our identity…but we have a lot of good senior leaders,” Schmidt said. Seniors Players: Trevin Kellow, Josef Khalifeh, Morgan Kellow, Joseph Duvall, Kory Kirwan
Swim Team
Next Meet: Thursday, Jan. 6 at Tigard Coach’s Corner with Shannon Corbeau: On their last tri-meet against Century and Liberty, the swim team beat out many of its competitors. With the season just beginning, Coach Shannon Corbeau has high hopes for the season. “I’m just excited for each meet; there are so many new swimmers… who are doing so well,” Corbeau said. Seniors Swimmers: Kaile Burkey, Zack Vanderhoof, Anni Wanzenried, Gaele Leal
C rimson T imes
F U D G E
Thursday, December 16, 2010
Entertainment
Page
11
photo by SIERRA DUNGAN Fudge is a popular candy to make because it is so versatile. There are almost limitless possibilites for chocolate combinations and ingredients to add. For a unique approach to fudge making, try layering different kinds.
Chocolate peppermint
White chocolate
Ingredients: 2 c. milk chocolate chips 1 c. semi-sweet chocolate chips 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk Dash salt 1/2 t. peppermint extract 1/4 c. crushed hard peppermint candy
Ingredients: 12 oz. white chocolate 2/3 c. sweetened condensed milk ½ c. sweetened dried cranberries
Directions: 1. In heavy saucepan, over low heat, melt chips with milk and salt. Remove from heat; stir in peppermint extract. Spread evenly into waxed paper-lined 8-or 9-inch square pan. Sprinkle with peppermint candy. 2. Chill 2 hours or until firm. Turn fudge onto cutting board; peel off waxed paper and cut into squares. Store covered in refrigerator. Recipe from allrecipes.com
Chocolate walnut Ingredients: 1 (7oz.) jar marshmallow cream 1 1/2 c. sugar 2/3 c. evaporated milk 1/4 c. butter 1/4 t. salt 2 c. milk chocolate chips 6 oz. semisweet chocolate morsels 1 c. walnuts (chopped) 1 t. vanilla extract Directions: 1. In heavy saucepan, combine marshmallow cream, sugar, milk, butter and salt. 2. Bring to a full rolling boil over medium heat, stirring constantly. 3. Boil 5 minutes, remove from heat. 4. Add both kinds of morsels. Stir until melted and mixture is smooth. 5. Stir in walnuts and vanilla. 6. Pour into foil-lined 8-inch square pan. Chill until firm. Recipe 15018 from food.com
cranberry
Directions: Put white chocolate and milk in microwave-safe bowl and microwave until melted, stirring in 30 second intervals. Mix in cranberries. Pour into foil-lined 8 inch square pan and refrigerate until set. Recipe from Hannah Johnston
Peanut butter Ingredients: 1/2 c. butter 2 1/4 c. brown sugar 1/2 c. milk 3/4 c. peanut butter 1 t. vanilla extract 3 1/2 c. powdered sugar Directions: 1. Place butter into a medium saucepan and melt over medium heat. 2. Add brown sugar and milk, stirring. 3. Boil for 2 minutes, stirring frequently. 4. Remove from heat. 5. Mix in peanut butter and vanilla. 6. Place powdered sugar into large mixing bowl. 7. Pour hot peanut butter mixture over powdered sugar and beat until smooth. 8. Pour fudge into an 8 inch square pan. 9. Chill until firm, about 1 hour. Recipe 68659 from food.com
Chocolate is coming to town The 2011 Chocolate Fest will be held at the Oregon Convention Center Jan. 21-23. This festival features many Northwest chocolatiers offering a variety of chocolate samples, presentations, and demonstrations. Visit http://www.whatsonwhen.com/sisp/index.htm?fx=event&event_id=241222 for more information.
Cacao pours rich drinking chocolate by ELISE HAMPTON
With a range of chocolate not found in most stores, the two gourmet shops of Portland’s Cacao offer rare forms of this dessert . Everything in the stores has been handpicked by co-owners Aubrey Lindley and Jesse Manis according to their personal tastes and the products’ quality. They offer a wide variety of delicacies, from drinking chocolate to salted caramels. The drinking chocolate offers a much more concentrated flavor than normal hot chocolates. Lindley estimates that almost 30 percent of the customers who order the drink cannot finish the entire cup because of its intense flavor. To find out more about Cacao, visit cacaodrinkchocolate.com.
Page
12 Entertainment
Thursday, December 16, 2010
Ten Gifts for $15 5.
As the holidays approach, we feel pressure to buy everyone the perfect gift. Anxiety mounts when we see the price tags. But if you know where to go for great inexpensive gifts, shopping does not have to take the joy out of the holidays.
Body wash/spray: Any guy is sure to love this sweet smelling gift. Axe is a great option for guys, there are plenty of scents to choose from.
C rimson T imes
! s s e L Or
by KIRA TIEMAN
1.
Jewelry: You can find inexpensive pieces of jewelry at Forever Love or antique stores. You can find jewelry for as little as $1. Forever Love sells jewelry that fits every girl’s personality. Browsing through the antique stores in Downtown Hillsboro will take you back in time, and you can give your friends a piece of beautiful history.
mugs and 2. Travel water bottles: Green
is the new black this winter and saving the planet is the way to go. Giving a coffee mug or reusable water bottle will help the planet and provide a fashionable way to stay hydrated. Many coffee places will give you a discount if you bring in your own travel mug (Dutch Brothers gives you 25 cents off, and Peet’s Coffee and Tea gives you 10 cents off). By giving a travel mug you will be helping save money at his or her favorite coffee shop.
3.
Picture Frames: Girls love to reminisce on all the good times they have had so give her a framed picture of a memory you’ve shared.
4.
Scarves: It’s chilly outside so give a gift to help her stay warm. Fashion scarves are a great addition to an outfit, and they look fabulous on everyone. You can find them in just about any clothing store.
9.
Food gift cards: Food is the way to a guys heart, so give him the thing he loves most.
6.
Movie passes: Going to the movies is a great way to spend those rainy days, and have a great time with friends.
7.
Belts, beanies, wallets: These guy-cessories can be affordable if you know where to look. Target is a great option. You can also find them on sale at their favorite stores like Zumiez or American Eagle.
Our generation’s ‘Catcher in the Rye’ by CRYSTAL HILL Stephen Chbosky’s coming of age novel, The Perks of Being a Wallflower, is moving, charming and easily relatable to teens. To share the adventures in his ever changing world, a 14-year-old boy uses the penname Charlie as he writes letters to an anonymous source about his life. Awkward and antisocial, Charlie starts his freshman year of high school. He becomes friends with the senior outcasts and learns to be more than a nobody. The depth of Chbosky’s characters is the best part of this novel. Although the plot may be almost nonexistent, as there is no antagonist, Chbosky makes up for this in his defined characters. The novel is driven by how they uniquely handle the obstacles with which they are faced. Leaving the reader fascinated by every character’s story, Chbosky is able to write on the problematic issues faced by teenagers in the real world while still keeping the story believable, and not melodramatic. As the novel progresses, Charlie grows up. He experiments with
drugs, tries dating for the first time, and becomes part of a reenactment of “The Rocky Horror Picture Show.” Chbosky captures the voice of a 14year-old boy with perfect clarity, maintaining the humorous attitude. While Charlie matures his writing also becomes more fluent, while still keeping the same animation in his voice. Memorable characters and a vibrant voice keeps The Perks of Being a Wallflower unique, and still an easy read. It is perfect for a rainy day read.
10.
Novelty T-shirts: These T-shirts are a great way to give him something that matches his personality. Target or Walmart has a great selection of affordable shirts that range from funny sayings to Batman logos.
and magazines: Collect their 8. Books favorite magazines and bundle them
together and decorate with some ribbon. Purchase their favorite books at used books stores such as Powell’s City of Books.
Action-packed movie flops by ANDREW ROGERS Luc Besson’s The Professional is a strange film. It was like watching two different movies: one that I found to be incredible; the other, not. This movie started as a good action flick. Even though it was made 16 years ago, the effects are still realistic, and the fight scenes are exciting and unpredictable from the beginning. The premise of the work itself is also unique: a timid Italian hit man encounters a young girl who, after her family was murdered, begs him to teach her to become a hit man herself so she can seek revenge on her family’s killers. Then the second film flows in. The Professional takes the path of a drama, showing the everyday tasks of characters Leon and Mathilda. In contrast to the impressive and heart-pumping opening, the movie becomes downright boring as the characters slowly go through their uneventful lives. Additionally, The Professional becomes uncomfortable to watch because of Mathilda’s tendency to dress and act like jailbait. Since she is 12, her habits and attitudes feel misplaced and inappropriate. Also, the music awkwardly switches from lush orchestral sequences to popular ‘90s alternatives artists like Bjork. Luckily, the
“second” film gradually returns to the “first” film once again. The last segment is the best, and keeps the viewer on the edge of their seat. Leon gets more opportunities to show off his killer marksmanship, which rivals that of Jason Bourne. Overall, the film is hard to take in as a whole. It is two different movies: one that is an achievement in action, and the other that is a disappointing drama. In the end, it is up to viewers whether they are willing to stay around for the diamond in the rough.
6
Feature
C rimson T imes
Feature
Thursday, December 16, 2010
“ What you say matters. ” Taking a stand, making a change, Really. opening new doors Page
Thursday, December 16, 2010
Page
7
People need a place to
talk about their lives.
Illustration by JENNY LUO
Two gay students share their stories Although they hear negative slurs each day, these students have also found acceptance. For some it might have been a difficult process, but the challenges have made them more confident
by STEPHANY CHUM
A
cceptance is some“I hear people use the terms ‘fag ‘and ‘gay’ a lot, thing everyone substituting it for stupid,” Malstrom said. “People will needs. However, say ‘That’s so gay’ or’He’s such a fag,’ but they don’t for gay and lesbian realize [they’re hurting people] when saying that.” youth, sometimes According to Wilkinson, anti- gay harassment has bethis need is not met and they are come synonymous with anything people don’t like. faced, on a daily basis, with peo“Oftentimes people who are not gay are harassed for ple who do not accept. how they look or dress and are called ‘gay’ for it.” WilkinJunior Elizabeth Figel has been son said. openly lesbian since her freshman Figel said that when she first came out, it was hard for her year and says the atmosphere at Glencoe is accepting for the most I think that if students stand up for part, but sometimes people will each other, set an example of not usstare at her and her girlfriend. “I go through everyday ignor- ing negative language, and treat eving negative comments; I’ve just learned to not...pay attention to eryone equally, then other students it,” Figel said. will follow. This past summer at a public park, Figel was harassed and beaten by teenagers due to her family to accept the fact that she is gay. decision to be openly lesbian, re“My family found out I was gay my freshman year, and sulting in a black eye, bruised ribs some family members didn’t want anything to do with me,” and a painful memory. Figel said. “No one really wants to deal with it.” “I blacked out and woke up to As for Malstrom, coming out to his family was not as kids surrounding me,” Figel said. hard. “I didn’t know the [kids], but they “I was raised in a liberal family, so coming out to [my famknew me.” ily] was easy for me,” Malstrom said. “But for the [students] An anti- hate and violence as- who don’t have that leisure, my [advice] would be not to care sembly was held for the freshman what others say, just take time to figure who you are.” class in mid October and was led Figel would agree, saying that, although she has not found by Barrett Wilkinson, a unity project director from Center for acceptance from her family, she has managed to find accepPreventing Hate. Wilkinson travels to different schools around tance within herself, which has made all the difference. the United States, educating students Wilkinson said that finding safe about hate and violence. Prior to the people to talk to is important [when I blacked out and woke up looking for acceptance]. assembly, Diversity Club students were trained by Wilkinson to lead to kids surrounding me. She says that above everything, discussions with the freshman. students need to help their peers and “I think harassment towards gay show support. people happens because of societal misconception about what it “I think that if students stand up for each other, set an means to be gay or [who] gay people are.” Wilkinson said. example of not using negative language, and treat everyone Having been openly gay since his freshman year, junior Jake equally, then other students will follow.” Malstrom, said that [the abuse] is not just physical, it’s verbal too. He said he hears offensive slurs every day.
“
”
“
”
S
by MATTHEW KISHLOCK
he heard the stories, and they broke her heart. News of the shocking suicides of eight teenage boys filled television news shows, radio broadcasts, and newspaper headlines throughout the month of October. Senior Cat Crawford, like many, was upset by the tragedy: eight boys had taken their lives after being bullied and harassed for their perceived sexuality. “Bullying is wrong,” Crawford said, “but bullying to the point where the only way out seems to be through suicide…that’s just on a different level.” After hearing the news, Crawford noticed the announcement on Facebook of an event called Spirit Day. Spirit Day was Oct. 20, and was a day to wear purple to memorialize the deaths of the young and to show support against bullying. Crawford took the event to heart and had an idea. She wanted to bring this day to Glencoe. “This was a good way to…help stamp out bullying,” Crawford said. “[We have to say that]
we’re not going to stand for it anymore.” out and unable to read the announcements. She said Her idea to bring Spirit Day to Glencoe first took that despite the lack of publicity, it spread by word of root in Crawford’s Photo Design class, when teacher mouth, and many students did know about it. Ezra Ereckson brought up the topic of the suicides. He One such student, junior Chris Phanthavong said talked to his class about it to explain to them why he that even though it was not largely publicized, among would not tolerate comments like ‘That’s so gay.’ those who did know, there was a positive response. “[Mr. Ereckson] said that [the suicides convinced “Even people who didn’t approve of homosexualhim] to start calling people out when they said, ‘That’s ity were supportive [of the anti-bullying message],” so gay’ or ‘Fag,’” Crawford said. “He wasn’t going to Phanthavong said. In fact, it was better than he had ignore it…because it goes [deeper], it hurts people on a expected, “I was expecting [a lot more] negative feedvery personal level.” back, but some people really With support from surprised me.” I was expecting [a lot more] Ereckson, Crawford and Phanthavong said that her friend senior Dan- negative feedback, but some although Spirit Day was a ielle Himes approached good way to bring the topic people really surprised me. student council adviser forward, promoting accepBarbara Furstenberg with tance is still a difficult task the idea of encouraging Spirit Day at Glencoe during that takes awhile. Homecoming Week. Crawford said Furstenberg lis“[It’s a] maturing process. You grow up, you grow tened to them and then discussed the idea with the stu- older, and you’re exposed to things. [After awhile], you dent council. realize that it doesn’t really matter that much. [UnforFurstenberg said she was supportive of Crawford’s tunately], we don’t have a lot of exposure at Glencoe,” and Himes’ ideas, and that it was a nice coincidence Phanthavong said. how the day of purple would fit with the glamorous To help provide support and acceptance to students, week and would help to bring people together. writing coach Laura Hindley has revived Glencoe’s “All of our funny little days - [they’re] days to get Gay-Straight Alliance (GSA). After attending a workpeople attached to the school,” Furstenberg said. shop at Lewis and Clark college about creating safe According to Furstenberg, when the specifics of and accepting environments for lesbian, gay, bisexual Spirit Day would have been publicized over the an- and transgender (LGBT) teachers and students, she was nouncements, Dean of Students Jeff Meeuwsen was motivated to bring awareness to Glencoe. Hindley said
“
”
Students share their opinions What’s your perspective on gays and lesbians?
How accepting do you think Glencoe’s student body is?
What kind of language do you hear in the halls of Glencoe?
What do you think needs to happen at Glencoe?
“I’m okay with gays. They have a right to be who they want to be; love comes in all different forms.” -Jehnni Oliver, 11
“I think we’re 70% accepting and 30% un-accepting. Some people are just really mean.” -Cindey Najera, 10
“I hear a lot of put downs towards gay people in the halls, and it’s not right.” -Karen Gonzalez, 12
“People need to be more open minded and should not use offensive slurs.” -Beeny Tapley, 12
-“If there are gays, I don’t want to know that they are here; I don’t want to see it at school.” Anonymous male, 11
“From what I’ve heard, it’s not that accepting, but it doesn’t really affect me.” -John Dormier, 10
“Some of the stuff I hear in the halls is very rude and offensive, and I hear it constantly every day.” -Amanda Kishlock, 9
“I think [gays] have the right to be who they want to be. They shouldn’t be discriminated against at all, and people need to accept that.” -Luis Guerrero, 12
“It’s okay for them to do what they want, just don’t involve me. I’m not taking a side; I’m 50/50 on this topic.”
“I think there’s a good tolerance at Glencoe, but there definitely needs to be more awareness.”
-Lorena Colcer, 11
-Cat Crawford, 12
“I hear ‘casual’ joking about gays; comments like ‘You’re so gay’or ‘What a fag.’” -Xander Milder, 12
“People need to be more educated. We really need to talk about it because it’s getting worse for some people here.” Aly Sibayam, 11
the most important thing for students to have in school is a feeling that they can talk openly about themselves, and that’s what the GSA would offer. “[Students] learn best when [they] can relate what’s
“To anyone who is being bullied, there’s always support groups, always resources, so don’t lose hope. There are people who love you.
”
in the classroom to [their] lives,” Hindley said, “and when some part of [their] life…is considered taboo, [it makes learning that much harder].” The issues have to be talked about, Hindley said, because the only time problems arise is when people do not talk about it and do not understand each other. “People need a space to talk about their lives,” Hindley said. Diversity Club adviser Susan McLain said that the GSA would work in collaboration with the Diversity Club. The two groups hope to hold workshops, discussions, Q and A sessions with gays and lesbians in the work force, and most of all, do whatever the two groups can to meet students needs, McLain said. When approached with the idea of reviving Glencoe’s GSA, Principal Carol Loughner was supportive. And said it would be a good addition to the school. Loughner said the presence of a support system for all students is critical to any learning environment. Loughner said it has always been the schools policy to support all students. “We treat everyone equally, give [everyone] opportunities, and meet and talk with [them about their problems],” Loughner said. “I’ve seen a lot more growth with accepting diversity [at Glencoe].” Crawford said, that although her promotion of Spirit Day may not have turned out the way she wanted it to, overall, it was still a success. She said she feels she managed to take a step in the right direction, and that maybe it even helped someone. Crawford said she feels optimistic for Glencoe, and hopes that the growing acceptance will help students who are looking for support “To anyone who is being bullied,” Crawford said, “there’s always support groups, always resources, so don’t lose hope. There are people who love you.” Crawford says she has every intention of continuing to show her support for gay and lesbian students, and intends to participate in Glencoe’s new GSA. The GSA’s first meeting was Dec. 15. Meetings will be held every B-day Wednesday in room 206 after school.