he Jefferson Higheacon School March 2014 T B Volume 2, Issue 3 A foot of snow and a week off school Let’s call it a day! Administrators explain the proves no match for school spirit considerations and procedures for canceling school

by Samantha Westhoff Staff Writer There’s always a certain energy in the air when the weather forecast is calling for snow. Students, and even teachers, are comparing how much snow they heard will come that night, then wait for the sound of all the phones in the house ring- ing simultaneously to indicate that school has been called off. But, behind that one simple phone call is great consid- eration. The weather forecast is monitored three days prior to the predicted day of snowfall. If it begins to snow, Mr. Clint Johnston, superintendent, Mr. Jim Almany, transporta- tion director, and the maintenance staff begin by evaluating the condition of the parking lots. After the parking lots have been checked, they check the condition of the roads, keep- ing in mind that students and buses will be on these roads. If the roads and parking lot are not safe, school is called off. “The decision to have or not have school is based on one statement: better days in May,” said Johnston. If snow is predicted to fall overnight, this team of people start driving the roads as early as 3 a.m. to ensure the safety of the students. If they decide to cancel school, Johnston will make the call no later than 5 a.m. “I try to make the call by 6 p.m. the night before, so Photo by Eva Govreau parents can make other arrangements for their children, but sometimes that’s just not possible,” said Johnston. Junior Jared Schneider gets the crowd going with his “enormous” school spirit at the courtwarming game. School can, in fact, be called off because the tem- by Kaylee Morrison perature is too cold. Johnston said he looks at the National lights were placed around the gym, so students would glow Weather Service temperature chart. If either the wind chill Staff Writer when the Tekno Bubbles popped on them.“I don’t think there or the air temperature is 25 degrees below zero, school will After two months of stressful planning, Courtwarming was still is any reason why we wouldn’t do it next year,” said Marlow. “We be canceled for the day. Even slightly above that is still un- a great success despite all of the snow days for our district. To raised more money for Special Olympics in that one week than bearably cold, but the school has taken this into consider- kick off Courtwarming, Student Council planned a spirit day for in the past three months. It was a super easy event. In addition ation. The Jefferson R-VII school district recently received each week-day which included ‘Merica Day, Camo Day, and also to being a successful fundraiser, it helped to increase attendance a grant allowing the district to equip the buses with heaters PJ Day. Students went all out for these spirit days in order to get and school spirit at the week’s basketball games.” Altogether, that start early in the morning, so the bus is warm for the beads from teachers to win spirit king or queen. Although it was the profits from the spirit week, basketball game, and dance students. Students are also allowed to wait for the bus inside a close race, Senior Maddie Marlow and Senior Cole Lankford amounted to over $1,000 that Student Council is going to do- their house as long as they can see the bus coming from their came out on top and were named spirit queen and king at Fri- nate to Missouri Special Olympics. All in all, courtwarming was door. day’s courtwarming game against Bourbon. The Jefferson boy’s a smashing success as both a fundraiser and a way to energize If students have ever looked at their Facebook news- basketball team defeated Bourbon 76 to 39. After the game, stu- school spirit in the middle of winter. Student Council is looking feed during a snow prediction, they often see statuses like dents headed straight to the Tekno Bubble dance where black forward to hosting it as an annual event. “Come on R-7! Festus and Crystal called off!” When Jef- ferson was only a K-8 school, the decision to cancel school See more courtwarming week pictures on page 2 Story continued on page 2 Law class makes an impressive showing in mock trials al-life trial, with opening statements, witnesses, by Aaron McInerney cross-examination and closing arguments. Staff Writer Junior Lauren Rundel was impressed at how the trial ran. “It was very realistic in a real On the evening of June 28, 2012 Elliott courtroom with a judge,” said Rundel. “We Grantham was performing routine bed checks even took the oath prior to beginning.” at Earhart County Jail where he worked as a After each team completed its closing guard. Officer Riley Lehn, the guard in the statement, the jury met to discuss and give a control room at the time, noticed commotion verdict. JHS’s defense team went up against coming from cell block C on his monitors. A MICDS and the plaintiff team went up against couple of prisoners were outside of their cells a home-schooled team through home link. assaulting Grantham. By the time Lehn and The trial was based on a 120-point scoring sys- others went to aid Grantham, he had already tem, which evaluates multiple categories. The suffered critical injuries. Grantham is now su- points are awarded by the jury. In the end, the ing Earhart County alleging that the county plaintiff team won against the home-schooled was negligent in the way it staffed and secured team’s scoring a 93 over the opposing team’s the jail. The county denies these allegations 89. The defense team did not win, however, claiming that Grantham failed to follow jail they still posted an 89 against MICD’s 99. protocol which caused him to be injured. All the students who participated en- Sounds like something on Court TV? joyed the trial, win or lose. Junior Lauren This was actually the case taken on by Ms. Photo by Aaron McInerney Rundell, who was already interested in pursing Trish Baumgartner’s 5th hour Law class. This law said, “It was a really fun experience. Being Seniors Jared Yglesia and John Duerr and Junior Matt Haws discuss the plantiff team’s is Baumgartner’s second year participating in plans. Their team beat a home-schooled team, as well as Ladue High School. there made me want to become a defense at- mock trials. For the mock trial, the class divides torney even more.” into two teams, the plaintiff, in favor of Eliott quently to instruct and give advice to the stu- ability to perform.” Students continued to prepare for the Grantham, and the defense, in favor of Ear- dents on their court skills. The mock trial was Baumgartner also felt that her students next trial, which took place on Feb. 25. The hart County. Each team is comprised of four held at the Clayton Courthouse at 6 p.m. on were ready. “I thought both teams had a good only difference in this trial was that the defense attorneys and three witnesses. The students Jan. 28. The students had the unique opportu- chance of winning even though Mary Institute team and plaintiff team switched sides. The only had about nine school days to prepare for nity to argue a court case in front of a practic- and Saint Louis Country Day was very good.” defense team beat Ladue High School and the the trial due to snow days; some came in on ing attorney acting as a judge, as well as multi- MICDS won state in 2011 and ranked second plaintiff team lost to Saint Louis University weekends to practice ple practicing attorneys serving as the jury. in the nation that same year. High School. Baumgartner was thrilled with During their preparation, two lawyers, Senior Jared Yglesia felt his team was The courtroom was a typical circuit their overall performance. Jefferson placed 13 Adam Breeze and Mike Lowry, came in fre- well prepared. “I felt confident in our team’s court courtroom and the trial was run like a re- out of over 50 schools in the St. Louis area. [email protected] March 2014 2 News Grab-n-Go breakfast gains great FBLA chooses to support local popularity among JHS students organization, Kade’s Playground

by Samantha Westhoff So, how did something of this magnitude Staff Writer end up in the small city of Herculaneum? “The city wanted to build a playground so why not Kade Bauman was five months old when he first build one of this caliber?” said Herculaneum started having seizures. He stayed in the hospital Councilman Chris Baker. for a month and upon numerous tests, Kade was Every year, the Future Business Leaders diagnosed with epilepsy (a seizure disorder), hypo- of America club chooses at least one organiza- tonia (decreased muscle tone), and cortical vision tion to support for the year. This year, the club impairment (abnormal vision due brain deficien- decided to keep their support local and help cies). Although he went through several hours of raise money for Kade’s Playground. physical therapy, his muscles were not able to sup- The club is thinking outside the box port him which confined him to a wheelchair. when it comes to fundraisers. The club quickly He was granted a wish from the Make-a- found that food sells well when they sold pizza Wish Foundation of Missouri. Kade and his family during advisory last year. Now that advisory is took a trip to Disney World. The family stayed at a earlier in the morning, getting a ton of pizzas to resort that had an accessible playground, and, for school would not be possible so why not go for the first time, Kade and his brother were able to breakfast food instead? Krispy Kreme dough- play alongside each other. nuts are loved by everyone so it’s something Kade’s father, Josh Bauman, wanted to bring new to try this year. They are also planning on something like that to this community but several hosting some type of event. city leaders refused to entertain the idea. In August Choosing a service project usually brings of 2011, it was announced that Unlimited Play some challenges. It’s difficult to choose a cause would we partnering with the City of Herculane- that people can fully understand and support, um to build an accessible playground. which is why it selects local causes to support. Kade passed away in his sleep when he was “We chose Kade’s Playground because it is Students wait in line to be served their “grab-n-go” breakfast between first period and three years old but his name will live on. On Oct. close to home,” said Cole Lankford, President advisory. The breakfast began on Feb. 4 and appears to be popular with many students. Breakfast sales have increased by 41 percent. 2011, it was announced that the playground would of FBLA. “It’s in the Herculaneum community be named in Kade’s honor. “It’s cool that there is and people understand what it stands for.” going to be that legacy there,” said Bauman. by Samantha Westhoff trash.” Staff Writer Freshmen Derek Combs and James Mc- Dowell assist in the distribution of the grab-n- Snow Days Jefferson High School recently adopted a new go breakfasts. “It’s a great way to talk to stu- continued from page 1 Missed days program: Grab-n-Go breakfast. This allows dents,” said McDowell. “It’s also kind of fun.” students who may not have time in their hur- Combs feels that the breakfast has gone was slightly more influenced by days on the district calendar. in previous ried morning schedule the opportunity to get over well. “When you can get 50 students other schools. Now as a K-12 The school district does not use years something quick to eat during before their ad- through in less than half an hour, it’s going school, the district does not holidays, such as Martin Luther visory period. pretty well.” have to provide transportation King, Jr. Day or President’s 2011-2012 - 3 The idea for grab-n-go breakfasts was Both Combs and McDowell agree that to other schools. The superin- Day, to make-up snow days for introduced by Mr. Tim Davis, food service di- they now have a better understanding of how tendents from other schools several reasons. First of all, the 2010-2011 - 14 rector. “We saw several studies in trade publica- hard the cafeteria ladies work everyday. sometimes converse about the school board policy gives these 2009-2010 - 5 tions that I receive from the School Nutrition Many students are taking advantage of conditions; however, the deci- national holidays to teachers as Association,” said Davis. “There are schools the advisory breakfasts. Senior Sam Henderson sion is made independently. paid holidays. If these days were 2008-2009 - 5 that are doing this, and we thought it would be decided to try out the breakfast during the third Making up snow days: taken away, the district would 2006-2007 - 5 no one likes to think about this. somehow have to make this up a great idea.” week. 2005-2006 - 3 Mr. David Haug, high school principal, “I knew I’d like it because I tried the sam- Missouri state policy states that to the teachers. Another reason was fully supportive of the idea. “It’s well ples out at lunch,” said Henderson. “So I decid- districts must make up the first is parents often use these days 2004-2005 - 1 6 days and make up 1 day for to schedule appointments and known that students do better when they have ed to give it a go.” 2003-2004 - 5 something in their belly,” said Haug. “We were Davis hopes to expand the program every 2 days after that, up to take short vacations. 14 missed days. School districts Graduation is scheduled able to do something about this during adviso- to the middle school eventually. “We are also ry.” looking to upgrade our breakfast cart to a com- are required to make-up a total for May 20, two days after the Information provided by Depart- Haug feels that the high school student mercial cart through a grant from the Dairy of 10 missed days during the original date. Although that course of the school year. is two days before the last day ment of Elementary & Secondary body is very responsible. “We are able to do Council for the start of the new school year.” Education something like this because our students can He noted that breakfast sales have increased by Currently, May 12 - May of school, seniors will still be handle it and will be responsible for their 43 percent. 23 are scheduled as make-up making up some of the missed snow days.

Go Blue Jays! The Beacon March 2014 OPINIONS 3 Do’s and Don’ts for Living on the Red Planet The Whiny, Wimpy, Worrisome World We Live In I think I speak for everyone when I say that people are slowly, but surely, getting more an- noying. You walk down the aisle at Walmart and your ears are berated with the cries of children throwing a fit over a toy followed by EDITORIAL the parents giving in. You see people complain- ing about things that you would kill to have. I mean, we’ve all seen that picture with the girl crying over the black iPhone. Well, the Beacon hears you. We all pretty much agree that society is no longer held to the grand standards they once were. A sense of entitlement has gripped the nation, and even the world, by force and not many people seem to be doing all that much about it. No longer are we depending on ourselves to get things done. Instead of helping the peo- Illustration by Jacob Hill ple who are truly in need or down on their luck, many don’t know how they’d support their lazy by Jacob Hill Staff Writer habits without government assistance. The government has become more of a bed to lie Last year, the Mars Rover, ¨Curiosity,¨ was a technological milestone of the human race and gathered all sorts of new info on our in than the safety net they once were. Not to lifeless red neighbor. This was followed by a call to action of volunteers to go on a one-way trip to Mars and be the first human mention that while the government is handing colony in the distant future. This was very interesting to me, and I gave it some serious thought for a few days. Ultimately, though, out money that we don’t have, people blame I decided against it, mainly for reasons like family, friends and the ever-present threat of someone getting sick in zero gravity on a 7-month trip to Mars. A bunch of real deal-breakers; but before I abandoned my dream of Lewis and Clark’ing all the way to the the first person they see, usually the president. red dustball that I would eventually rule with an iron fist, I jotted down some simple to follow rules for being such a pioneer. Please And that’s another thing too, society likes feel free to read and commit to memory, because I wouldn’t mind a good many of you being literally a planet away from me at any to point fingers. Whether that be at the govern- given time. ment, at other people, at other countries, the Be Respectable and Likeable- This is a good first step, considering you will be living with these people for the rest finger always seems to be pointing outward. of your natural existence. Get on their good side, learn about them as people, and really try to bond as a group. It must be the teacher’s fault you failed that Because if you’re someone that would, say, clog then abandon the shuttle toilet on a year long voyage to glory and test because the teacher didn’t teach you well exploration, I can promise you that they will launch you into deep space like a squirrel being chucked by a Silver- 1 enough. It couldn’t possibly be that you spent back Gorilla. your night of staying up late on Twitter instead Take Notes- You’re in a once in a lifetime situation to visit and observe and study the going-ons of an entirely different planet. If you have a field notebook that says, “Rocks are EVERYWHERE!¨ followed by doodles of you of studying. It’s the boss’s fault that you lost lifting said rocks to smash evil robots, people will remember you not as ¨The Great Space Explorer” but more as your job. Not that maybe the company isn’t 2 ¨Crazy Rock Guy.¨ making a large enough profit and had to lay off a few workers. Shifting the blame: it’s never our Mind the Local Wildlife- I’m not saying aliens exist, but if they did, it’s a pretty safe bet to say that they will be fault, it has become second nature. pretty weirded out at first when we touch down. Be sure to respect their planet and to not offend any of their alien customs. If the aliens are hand shaped and hyper intelligent, it is safe to say a high five or handshake is not an ap- Honestly, if we think about it, the prob- propriate greeting. Just try to fit in and behave. Think about it this way: If you stepped out on your porch and 880 lem isn’t our parents or our teachers or even chipmunks were camped out in your lawn, demanding food and nourishment and for you to bow down to their cul- the government. We need to start taking re- 3 ture and lifestyle of Chipmunkia, you would be less inclined to obey and more inclined to fire up your weed wacker in defence of your land and home. And I’m pretty sure that aliens have mastered giant weed wacker technology. sponsibility for our actions, understanding mis- takes happen, move on from them, and lastly Have a Hobby- Let me put this bluntly; Mars is literally a giant rock with ice on both ends. You are headed toward a just live. Life isn’t going to be perfect, you’re chilly ball of dirt for the rest of time; it would serve you well to have a hobby that could be useful. Maybe painting, not going to get what you want all the time- or frisbee, or writing fanfiction for “Extreme Makeover: Mars Edition,” or whatever. It just needs to be something timeless. Playing Flappy Birds does not count as… actually, I cannot, in good faith, finish that sentence. I once saw I’m talking to you, ungrateful person with a iP- 4 someone play that stupid game for literally an hour straight, motionless, so its very probable it could take up the hone, iPod, laptop, tablet, and an iPad and still rest of your life. Perhaps they’ll turn your statuesque body into a hat rack or something. expecting more. So, you got a bad grade on the test? Study Keep Looking Forward- You can’t exactly say, “WAIT! TURN THE SHIP AROUND! I LEFT A CASSEROLE IN THE OVEN!” as soon as you break earth’s orbit. What’s done is done, and you can’t 180 the shuttle because harder next time. You lost your job at McDon- you forgot your iPod. You will have to be able to accept the fact that some things will have to be left behind on this alds? I’m sure they’re hiring somewhere else big blue hunk of hardened lava we call Earth–things like “Not having to get a can of Alien Repellent every third but sitting on your butt is not helping. The best 5 day” and “smelling apple pie.” will be far in the distant reaches of this solar system, and you’ll just have to hike up way to fix entitlement is to fix ourselves. your big boy pants and deal with it, all while staring dramatically into the sky like any good space action hero does. But it’ll all pan out, you brave and plucky travelers of the universe. Mars or bust, ya know?

The award-winning Beacon is produced 4 The Beacon Staff times per school year by the newspaper class of Jefferson High School, #7 Blue Jay Way, Festus, MO 63028. The Beacon strives to Jacob Ellenberger Nick Peery inform and entertain students, staff, and Sydney Henson Tristen Walsh community members while upholding pro- Molly Hill Samantha Westhoff fessional standards of accuracy and fairness. Cameron Kleine Kenny Williams Unsigned editorials represent the majority Saad Malik Sarah Cox opinion of the staff, not necessarily the Aaron McInerney Jacob Hill school or district. Signed editorials represent Kaylee Morrison the writer’s opinion. Blaise Torrence The Beacon welcomes and encourages Claire Welker, Co-editor-in-chief letters to the editors. Signed letters of 250 Jacob Hill, Co-editor-in-chief words or fewer should be emailed to thebea- [email protected]. The Beacon reserves the right to edit as long as the intent remains Christy Hueter, Adviser unchanged. [email protected] March 2014 4 OPINIONS That one kid: the...good kid?

by Jacob Hill did yesterday? Rescued a whole truck- admiration. Maybe I’ll try being nice made me sound old and crotchety but you feel better, physically? Thats wacky. Staff Writer load of orphaned puppies from that sometime, (don’t anyone hold their I’m up on my soapbox now and not You can juice yourself up just by saying sandstorm! AMAZING!” In a weird breath) but when I do, I would do it taking complaints at the moment. nice things! Keep that in mind before and slightly creepy way, that’s okay too. in the late hours of the night, when Try a social experiment for me. a big game. I guarantee that people will Chances are, we all know a few peo- Good job for saving those puppies, nobody but me knows about it. Like Next time you do a nice thing, don't be coming out onto the field/court/ ple who you consider a generally good Jose, you're a heck of a guy, even if you Batman but with more random acts of say a word about it. Keep it to yourself, baseball diamond thingy screaming person. They help people out, they are do get on my nerves a bit with of your kindness and less face punching. I feel see how long you can do it. For some, things like “THAT IS A LOVELY likable, they generally try not to rob happy-go-luckiness. like that kind of goodness is going the this will make you feel like you're being HAT YOU HAVE ON!” and “WHAT anyone at gunpoint. “Average Joes,” I No, folks, what I’m talking way of the Dodo. dipped in lemon juice after doing the NICE LOOKING SHOES!” to give call them. Not a bad bunch. Howev- about is the good kid who KNOWS Think about it. It’s much more Glass and Rusty Nails triathlon. For themselves a leg up. er, we ALSO know that one kid who that they are one good deed away from appealing to some people to advertise others it will just make you feel slight- Well, that’s about all the time is just perfect. Someone who can do being a saint himself and flaunt it in their goodwill far and wide, plastering ly odd. Don’t worry, that's normal. It’s I have to complain about the human no wrong, and everyone is doing noth- the face of others. That bugs me. I themselves with events and organiza- the good deed you did sinking into condition this issue. When it comes to ing but vomiting a constant stream of think, personally, if you're going to be tions and brands like they are a Nascar your bones. Also, did you know by do- not showering yourself in praise and compliments in their direction. good, it should be for something warm driver suiting up for a press confer- ing this good thing, chemicals like se- being a half decent human being, may- “Did you hear about what Jose and fuzzy you get inside, not for social ence. Perhaps all this complaining has rotonin and nor-epinephrine MAKE be it’s not so bad to be that one kid.

Super Horrors: The gritty reboots of yesterday’s heroes

he deems unworthy. Even the Man of reboot with his suit being a center- with death and destruction to add need to save someone or make quick, by Saad Malik Steel himself, Superman, can’t save ev- piece of all of his powers. His suit now “realism” to the seemingly impossible and sometimes lethal, decisions. This, Staff Writer eryone and is forced to snap the neck makes sense in the sci-fi world and is worlds. Even the world’s police and in turn, means the DC heroes tend to of the villain. The list goes on to in- a high tech super computer. Most of military now serve a function. In both worsen their own issues. For Batman Tight spandex, strong morals, and clude many other once morally sound these changes were needed in order to the Dark Knight and Arrow series the this means becoming more isolated. cheesy lines. This was the normal su- heroes that no longer care about saving keep the audience from laughing at the police serve a function in solving cases. For Superman it means a constant con- perhero persona. However, today’s su- everyone. ridiculousness of the costumes. In Marvel’s Avengers and the Man of flict of interest. For Green Arrow and perheroes have taken a dark twist on The least dramatic and necessary The next major change is a plot Steel the military serve an active, but Green Lantern, an increase in arrogant the once morally and mentally sound update to the superhero persona is difference in the world of super he- futile, role in protecting the people of behaviors. beings they were portrayed as. Replac- the evolution of the super suits. The roes. The villain no longer holds Earth. The reason that Superheroes (par- ing the skin tight spandex suits are fully changes are mostly subtle but they back on killing an individual or holds In addition to the costume chang- ticularly the live action variety) have functional suits of armor and essential make a huge impact. For instance, Bat- the hero and explains the plot. In the es and more realistic plots, superheroes become increasingly gritty is because gadgetry. The moralities of the super- man’s suit is now armor plated and the words of the Joker “I just do things.” have been given their own inner prob- of the need to reinvent the genre. The heroes themselves are no longer un- new cowl allows for movement of the The new plots are based around killing lems. Lets start with the obvious: Iron public now demands real looking vio- polluted. The days of the hero being vigilante’s head. This allows for less masses of people for various reasons, man is a narcissistic, alcoholic, who has lence and plot, and in order to achieve able to save every last soul are over. In awkward moments and a skilled fighter exploitation of a superheroes’ weak- trouble remaining faithful. He is a rich, this, the writers have made their heroes the Dark Knight series the villains are to be able to handle thugs at different ness or revenge for a former tragic jerk who acts it and, as far as I can tell, more realistic and relatable. Current true murderers, with the Joker at center angles. Another major costume change event. This is in stark contrast to the an awful role model. DC comics, in heroes don’t need complex gadgetry of chaos with no tangible intent. Hulk for a super hero is Superman now has once simple plot that the villain wants general, has taken a dark approach to to get information, they just carry cell has little control of his rage and near- scrapped the red underpants for a one- to wreak havoc for no apparent reason their super heroes. Most of them are phones. In coming years, heroes will ly kills an innocent jet pilot following pieced blue suit. This is mostly an aes- and capture the hero to reveal the plot self loathing, yet narcissistic, and have likely become less superior and more orders. Green Arrow (CW Arrow se- thetic change to keep with the new dark for destruction, just to be foiled in the weird hang-ups about how they func- broken, but that may just make for ries) has no remorse for killing those theme. Iron Man also had an amazing end. The new, darker plots are riddled tion. This leads the heroes to feel the some of the best entertainment yet.

Batman (1966) Batman (2012) Joker (1989) Joker (2012) Played by: Played by: Played By: Played By: Adam West Christian Bale Jack Nicholson Heath Ledger Strengths: Strengths: Strengths: Strengths: His villains are idiots, Kevlar, Creepy demeanor’ Can insanity be He’s Batman He’s Batman Impecable foresight considered a Weaknesses: Weaknesses: Weaknesses: strength? Constant wedgie Extreme introvert Moron Thugs, Weaknesses: Cruelest Action: Cruelest Action: Batman You can’t be Indecent groin Throws a man off Cruelest Action: serious... exposure of a building Murdering random Cruelest Action: At least his mommy innocents Blows up a hospital will always love him... “I’M BATMAN!” “Haven’t you heard of the Oh wait... healing power of laughter?” Why so Serious?

Superman (1978) Superman (2013) Green Arrow Arrow (2014) Played by: Played by: (2003) Played By: Christopher Reeve Henry Cavill Played By: Stephen Ammel Strengths: Strengths: Justin Hartley Strengths: Perfect hair, Insane jawline, Strengths: Highly skilled, Super strength Father’s guidance That Hair!, Smooth talking Weaknesses: Weaknesses: Highly skilled Weaknesses: Kryptonite Lois Lane, Weaknesses: Women, Cruelest Action: Awful disguise Stealth, Bullets Nudity in a public Cruelest Action: Part owner of Cruelest Action: phone booth Nearly destroys all of Lexcorp Constantly lying, Metropolis Cruelest Action: torturing and killing No. He is NOT “Accidental” murder a bird or a plane. “It’s not an S!!!” “What do I do now, “Let’s have a party!” Superman?”

Who is your favorite Who was your favorite If you could be any super hero, who superhero? superhero as a kid? would you be?

Batman because he’s got a lot Green Goblin was my favorite Spiderman, because who wouldn’t of money, and my name is, in villain because he had his glider want to climb up buildings? fact, Money Mike. and threw his explosive grenades. -Junior Angela Ravellette -Sophomore Mike Reed -Junior Nicole Voss

Batman, but not the cartoon. Wonder Woman because I liked The Green Arrow, because he is Only Christian Bale because the her outfit. like Robin Hood but better. other ones suck. -Freshman Macy Hill -Senior John Duerr -Freshman Holly Welker The Beacon March 2014 Features 5 Who is your Celebrity Crush? At some point or another, most of us will develop some celebrity crush. Be it Justin Bieber, One Direction, or Megan Fox, chances are it’s not going to actually blossom into a real relationship. So let’s have a little fun! There’s a celeb out there for everyone, and this quiz is designed to match you with your Hollywood soulmate.

START HERE Long Hikes Your

Braunk Preferred k Dream Crush Is...

m Brains vs. Braun Physical Activity Sweet k Sporty

Brains EXTREME l

l Sports l k Scary When do you We had homework? complete your k Preferred Preferred Dressed to Impress Homwork? Outfit k Movie right away Keeping up with the Kardashians m Preferred lT-shirt and Jeans Romance/

TV Show Whatever’s Drama l l Friends l Clean Best l Boring... Birthday Knock, mixed tape/CD k Friday Night Gift Knock? Gym Membership/ Plans Tanning Package Who’s there? Watch the PARTY! m l big game l l The Comedian The Athletel The Wild Child The Hottie The Romantic

Will Ferrell David Beckahm Justin Bieber Channing Tatum Usher Jennifer Lawrence Gracie Gold Miley Cyrus Megan Fox Taylor Swift Are you the “perfect” couple?

Courtney Eisenbeis and Brenden West Shelby Becker and Riley Barnes Bailey Waller & Logan Carney Where was your first kiss? Where was your first kiss? Where was your first kiss? C- “Football field.” S- “His party.” B- “At the movies.” B- “Football field.” R- “My party.” L- “Movie theatre.” What would your boyfriend say is your favorite thing What would your boyfriend say is your favorite thing What would your boyfriend say is your favorite thing to do on the weekends? to do on the weekend? to do on the weekend? C- “Just hang out together.” S- “Drive around.” B- “Watch movies.” B- “Hang out with me.” R- “Riding four wheelers.” L- “Watch movies.” What would your girlfriend say is your favorite food? What would your girlfriend say is your favorite food? What would your girlfriend say is your favorite food? B- “Steak.” R- “Crab legs.” L- “Fettucini.” C- “Steak.” S- “Chinese food.” B- “Pasta.” [email protected] March 2014 6 Sports Blue Jay Basketball experiences a season of firsts With a the boys completing their very first winning season in the history of Jefferson, and the girls having to face the loss of five starters, and a new coach, this basketball season has proven to be one of outstanding success

by Claire Welker Staff Writer Lucky Number After 4 coaches, only 27 wins, and 3 1,000 years of losing seasons, the Jeffer- son boy’s basketball team has finally found the success they’ve been work- ing towards. The 2013-2014 basket- ball season has been a whirlwind of huge wins and difficult losses. It has also has made Jefferson High School basketball history ending the regular season with numerous “firsts.” The boys won 16 out of their 24 season games. This record marks Jefferson boys basketball’s first ever winning season. Another first oc- curred between January and February when the boys went on an 8-game In high school basketball, scoring a winning streak. Head coach Nic combined 1,000 points is an extraor- dinary accomplishment that only an Zenker explains how the streak “dis- The boys proudly display their first ever Champioinship Plaque at the interW Warrior Classic. played the team’s newfound cohe- elite group of athletes has ever com- pleted. Among those top athletes is siveness.” The team also took home the nerve-wracking game against successes, they also endured several showed.” “The experience will bene- Jefferson’s very own Ryan Johnston. their first ever tournament champi- Crystal City. Sophomore guard Mi- disappointments. One of which was fit our program in the long run.” The Although Johnston has only played at onship defeating teams at the Valle chael Reed sunk a bucket late in the their loss against St. Pius. Zenker boys ended up finishing 2nd in con- Jefferson for one year, the standard Catholic Winter Warrior Classic. 4th quarter to give the BlueJays a 2 explains that the game was winna- ference, only losing to the Lancers. of athletic excellence will forever Senior guard Cole Lankford point lead. From there, the mount- ble, but “the moment was just too District play began on Sat- be remembered. While here, John- remembers the moment as one of ing pressure was just too much for big for us.” St. Pius boys basketball urday, February 22. The boys were ston scored 464 of his 1,000+ career great reward. “Speaking as a player Crystal City, and their offense fell has held the Jefferson County small- seeded sixth, and played Arcadia points. His success is a reminder that who has been there from the begin- apart. Reed describes the experience school Conference title for the last Valley, the third seed. Although the anyone can make their dreams a re- ning, it was nice to finally see some- as “one of his greatest moments.” “It 4 years, and this year the only team game went back and forth between ality. Johnston described the whole thing good happen.” Carrying on felt nice knowing that my team trust- threatening that title was Jefferson. the two teams, Arcadia Valley pulled experience as being “really neat.” with the season’s high points were ed my ability and performance.” “They have experience in those type through at the very end. both defeats of Valle Catholic, and In addition to the boys many of games”, Zenker states, “and it

Lady Jays continue tradition with another winning Spotlight Athlete season, capturing second conference title What was your most memorable moment? addition to the win streak, the girls accomplished another great feat. Sophomore Point The defeat of Crystal City marked Senior Foward, Guard, Mackenzie the girls’ second conference title. Ryan Johnston “The girls would sometimes play Null perfectly one night, then the next, they would play down. Overall, what killed us was our inconsisten- cy,” said Conway. “We had several games where we did a lot of good things on both ends, but at the same time, we’ve had some games where we just couldn’t execute.” Conway’s philosophy throughout the season was about “finding con- sistency. Our offense is all about timing, and defensively, everyone has to be on the same page.” The girls receive a pep talk from Coach Conway during a home game. Senior guard, Bailee Settle ex- “Being recognized for my “My two buzzer-beaters in plained that she personally liked 1000th career point and play- triple overtime at The 2013-2014 basketball season Fish said that “the defense was very the new offensive style. “When teams ing basketball for Bismarck Cape Central.” posed a new challenge for Jefferson’s confusing at first, but as the season would play us man-to-man, they would be my junior year.” -Null female athletes. The skilled group of progressed, I feel it became second making a mistake. Our offense is designed -Johnston girls graduated 5 seniors last year, nature.” Whether or not the other to get open shots right under the basket, leaving behind a standard of success team was able to break it down is and when executed correctly, we always got that this year’s team built upon. what determined the game. “It’s baby a look. Most teams hadn’t seen anything like Head Coach, Brad Conway, steps,” said Conway. it before.” took the reigns after former coach, A winning season was accomplished The season ended with a loss to Jason Dreyer, accepted an adminis- with ease as the Lady Jays rounded Clearwater at the district tournament. “It’s trative position. Conway’s coaching out their season with a record of 15 a tough district. There’s probably five or six style differed from that of Dreyer’s in wins and 9 losses. Conway feels that teams that could pull out a win on any given the defensive aspect. The girls learned some of the girl’s best games were night,” said Conway. “It didn’t help that we a new scramble form of defense that right after Christmas break. This were playing the home team on their own they executed during the majority included the Blue Jay defeats of St. court.” of games. Sophomore guard, Hilah Pius, Herculaneum, and DeSoto. In

www.shopdunns.com Furniture Outlet Mon - Fri • 8-7 Sat • 8-6 Sun • 10-4 Amber Elfert 8733 Commercial Blvd., Pevely • 475-4240 Designer The Beacon March 2014 Sports 7 The number says it all Drug testing gets mixed reviews For sports in general–whether it be football, basketball or base- by Tristen Walsh You even had to take a test to get a parking pass,” said Zen- ball–the number that you choose for your jersey tends to be an Staff Writer ker. “At the end of the day, they picked four or five random important decision and usually represents something. Whether you people to take the test.” are playing little league tee-ball, or you are the starting varsity quar- Even though Missouri has no statewide policy regarding Although coaches and administration are more often terback, if you got to choose your number you probably chose it random drug tests in public school sports, the implemen- in favor drug testing, some athletes think differently. “I don’t for a reason. Here are why some of Jefferson’s athletes chose their tation of said drug tests is on the rise nationally. According think we should have the drug tests because it would com- numbers. to the National Drug Abuse Institute, approximately 14 per- plicate things and kids who do drugs will more than likely cent of schools have instituted drug testing policies. Legally, just quit the sport,” said Senior Caitlyn Wehner. Senior Ryan by Kenny Williams these random drug tests are allowed within Missouri high Johnston, on the other hand, agrees with the administration, Staff Writer schools as long as they have it written and explained within “We should drug test because I’m not really good at a whole the school’s policies. lot of things, and I don’t want to be going up against a guy Currently, Jefferson High School has nothing in their who’s on steroids or something like that. I don’t want them policy regarding drug testing in the school’s sports. Jeffer- to have that kind of advantage over me.” son’s Athletic Director, Jason Dreyer, said, “I think it has The majority of Jefferson coaches, along with Dreyer, been mentioned in the past but it hasn’t since I’ve had this believe drug testing would give students a greater reason to 23 position.” say no to drugs. Scroggins says that drug tests “would give Head Varsity Football Coach, Derek Scroggins has a the athletes another reason to turn down any drugs.” Drug 5 strong opinion on the subject. He believes it would be best testing could even prevent students from making bad deci- for the athletes and the program. “I think there should not sions. Dreyer said, “Drug testing is a great idea, and students only be drug testing in high school sports, but I think it will always have that in the back of their minds when they should be for all activities, even just to get a parking pass at are out with friends.” school,” said Scroggins. “It will probably affect the partici- Out of the schools that have taken advantage of drug pation in sports in the short term, but as a coach, I need to testing, 65 percent test everyone in extracurricular activities, know who I can rely on.” while 16 percent of them test every student. The average “I wanted to carry on the family “I got my number because Head Varsity Boy’s Basketball Coach, Nic Zenker, cost of a drug test is between $15 and $35. According to a tradition.” when Devin Nahlik quit, coach also agrees that drug testing could be beneficial. “In my old New York Times report, the New Jersey State Interscholastic gave me his jersey.” school its was very effective. You had to sign up for any Athletic Association drug tests 500 student athletes, costing them around $100,000 a year. -Sophomore Mackenzie activities like band and clubs, not just football and baseball. Null, point guard -Freshman Blaine Prater, guard Competing with Test your knowledge with these sample quiz bowl questions. brain power 1. This group was made famous for investigating by Cameron Kleine possible Communist threats during the second Red Staff Writer Scare in the 1950s. Whittaker Chambers testified against Alger Hiss in front of this organization. 33 The Academic Team, also known as Quiz Bowl by some, is a group of people who play competitive trivia. Sound fun? 2. Name this R&B recording artist and songwriter The group travels to other schools and tries to outsmart their whose songs, “Umbrella”, “Disturbia”, and “Rude teams. Each game session is made up of a team of four peo- Boy” have all peaked at number one on the Bill- ple who do their best to answer 50 trivia questions faster than board Hot 100. the other team, while also getting the right answer. There can 3. Half man, half horse, some of these mythical be multiple games over the course of a tournament, which the team has periodically throughout the year at local schools. The creatures carried off Hippodamia, wife of Pirithous, team meets for practices every Tuesday and Thursday. Senior though they were later killed by Theseus for it. They 50“Number 50 was the only one “At Bismark I wore the number Maddie Marlow is a member on the team. “I joined because were also known for being raucous and loud. that fit.” 23, but Cole Lankford took it it’s fun and I like trivia.” Marlow says the questions aren’t just from me, so my next option 4. This function is equal to zero when its input is about academics. “For instance, one time I got a question zero, and its derivative is equal to secant squared. It -Freshman Shane Clenin, was 33.” right because I watched Looney Tunes.” Other members in- is also equivalent to sine divided by cosine. For right forward clude Saad Malik, Dylan Vandiver, Shiloh Johnston. Anybody -Senior Ryan Johnston, triangles, it describes the ratio of the Opposite side can join, but must attend practices. Jefferson High School is over the Adjacent side. forward scheduled to host a meet on March 4. People can join the team at any time during the year; just ask Mr. Husky. Answers on bottom of pg. 8

The A lesson on the lesser-known sports of the world In honor of this recently passed Valentine season, I would like to ping you only after 50 meters. You could hold that against him for remind you all of what it means to be there for your loved ones. years! Plus, if he is embarrassed enough, he may spend a little extra Obscure: Women, sometimes it is nice of you to just hug on to your man time in the gym. I don’t see how you can’t win in this sport. by Blaise Torrence and never let go. Let him know that you will always be there every The rules are as simple as it gets. You must be 18. You must step of the way. And men, sometimes she needs somebody strong, weigh at least 49kg (approximately 108lbs). You must not wear any Staff Writer somebody who can carry her through not only the smooth, easy gear that could assist you in any way, and most importantly, you parts, but also through the trailing rough terrain. Maybe it’s a ter- must have fun! If you do not show any signs of amusement or rain filled with sand and big pointy rocks, and maybe some kind giddiness, you will be disqualified and asked to leave immediately. of water obstacle that you’d have to sludge through. Ooo Ooo, There are no other rules. Just get to the finish line as fast as pos- and there might be some big fence type of thing that you’d have sible without losing or killing your partner, so that you might win to climb over with her on your back. Actually, this sounds kind of the fabulous grand prize! “What is the prize?” you ask. Well, the tough. I don’t even see why you would want to be in a relationship prize is the equivalent to your “wife’s” weight in beer. Yes folks, at this point. It just seems like an extremely unusual sport more beer. Despite the fact that you only have to be 18 to participate than anything. Oh, wait! That’s because it is! (even in America), the prize is beer and a lot of it. Maybe in special Wife carrying, a sport that began in Sonkajärvi, Finland, cases, milk can make for an adequate beer-substitute. basically describes itself in its title. It is a timed contest in which a Since this event involves alcohol, I am technically not al- male carries a female through 253.5 meters of tough terrain and lowed to encourage your participation, (in all seriousness, though, obstacles. The couple with the fastest time wins! And no, the par- drinking really is unhealthy, especially at this age, and honestly, ticipants do not have to be man and wife or even a couple at all. it’s gross. The chances that it could ruin your life is too high and Heck! It could be a stranger you found on some junk dating site just not worth some overrated party weekends with some drunk like FarmersOnly.com, but wouldn’t it be hilarious to drag your idiots.) but just in case this type of thing seems like it could be the significant other into this so that you can laugh at each other all the perfect date for you and your significant other, the North Ameri- way through! Think about it! For you guys: just picture the look can Championships will be on Columbus Day weekend at Sunday on her face as she dangles behind you, big-eyed, green-faced, and River Ski Resort in Newry, Maine. Odds are you won’t win any- hanging on to you for dear life. And for you ladies: just picture ways. the look on his face after he utterly fails by falling over or drop- Burch Sports 314 W. Main St. 937-4722 Now carrying an impressive line of Blue Jay merchandise! The Beacon March 2014 Features 8 The Anatomy of a Blue Jay Crowd The Freshmen The Parents The Outsiders Cheap Seats By now, they’ve logged They go to other schools but hundreds of hours sitting They’ve been waiting years secretly wish they went to on uncomfortable bleachers to make it into the student Jefferson. Some how they still cheering on their children. section. First, they must pay score a better seat than most Despite their casual demean- their dues in the crowded top freshmen. or, they can get pretty rowdy bleachers. when they don’t agree with the refs’ calls.

The Middle Schoolers The Heart They aren’t “officially” allowed in The Bass the student section and don’t really They take the role of pumping up know what’s going on, but they These types of guys often get tricked the crowd very seriously. Refusing view high schoolers as magnificent into coming by their girlfriends and to sit–even during half-time–they Greek gods. are forced to wear black like a bunch are Jefferson’s official “unofficial” of undead ghouls. They are mostly cheerleaders.

needed for their loud, deep voices. Answers to quiz bowl questions: 1. House of Un-American Activities Committee 2. Rihanna 3. Centaurs 4. Tangent 4. Centaurs 3. Rihanna 2. Committee Activities Un-American of House 1. questions: bowl quiz to Answers