february the 2012 precedent VOLUME V ISSUE V PERRY HIGH SCHOOL || PRIDE · PROGRESS · PURPOSE || GILBERT, AZ Inside Angry Birds: Construction to end bird problem

By Brooke Karakey the precedent Poop; it’s a substance that doesn’t discriminate. So when one is peacefully enjoying their lunch without a care in the world and suddenly an ominous white-brown splotch splatters on some sweet, sweet Back in the cafeteria pizza, something is a little off . swing of things Recently the growing Both the baseball and number birds that have taken softball teams look to re- shelter in the rafters of campus peat their playoff success awnings have been causing quite the ruckus regarding from last season, mov- sanitation. As a result, the ing into the 2012 spring construction of canopy sports season. ceilings are being assembled to deter any free-dropping Page 11 fl ocks that have overstayed their welcome. “We’re having a bird Racial and sexist remarks problem, the birds are getting make their way into up in there and nesting,” conversation more often assistant principal Joe Greene said. “ ey’re pooping on photo by Tatyana Garcia than we think. The seem- students and all that kind of Workers Gerald Tsinnie and Davey Lopez from the AARA Construction company prepare the ramada above the gym for remodlel- ingly unbiased nature of stuff so we’re enclosing all of ing in order to prevent bird nesting. Sanitary concerns caused the district to take notice and require changes to the school. conversations on campus that opening so the birds can’t Patterson, assistant principal. “Twice a year we go Schools’ team commented on escalated blockage. get up there and ruin stuff .” Naturally, excrement is not through this thing called the poop build- up suggesting “It’s quite an undertaking, may not be so neutral.  e building of the topside something a school can have ‘Clean Schools,’ where people we rectify the bird issue they’re working on the Page 4 cover itself will not interfere lying around, especially when come out and grade our before it becomes unhealthy. auditorium right now,” with students daily activities. routine school-wide health school to see how clean it is Furthermore, to eliminate Greene said. “Anywhere that “I’m glad they’re fi xing the analyses are conducted every to the point where there is too an impending doom, the you come, if it was open Perry Idol showcases the problem because nobody likes other year to assure the purity much grout,” Patterson said. blocking of elevated support they’re going to start enclosing singing talent of musical bird poop,” joked Heather of the learning facility. Previously, the ‘Clean beams is to ultimately avoid it.” students. Katie Hardin takes home fi rst place. Page 8 STEM program may be deal-breaker Both boys and girls have ‘Race to the Top’ dollars will funding will play an important the STEM courses are the established “codes” as Future East Valley students may be be used for the advancement role as Arizona sets higher a same teachers that teach guidelines for communi- swayed by new and accelerated programs of STEM and for it to be standard. In order to make the higher-level classes on cation. The staff debates considered a key element in informed decisions about campus already.  e only Arizona’s future. their children’s education.” class that will be diff erent is bro code versus the girl By Alli Klassen to PHS. “A top-fl ight education Greene added, “It is my the specialized class that will code. the precedent At this point, there system is critical in a working goal for STEM program to be restricted to only students in STEM. Page 5 have been 17 applications economy,” Gov. Jan Brewer be available to every one.”  e STEM program, submitted and there is said said in the press release. “ is  e teachers that are teaching which is set to debut next to be only 50 people in the Extracurriculars are often fall, has opened many new STEM program. cited as having positive and positive doors for Perry Assistant principal Heather High School.  e program Patterson also acknowledged impacts on education as will include engineering, the importance of the new a whole. Yet, a risk may math, science and math and science actually be proposed as technology. program. According to “Anything that you well. assistant principal Joe learn in high school Page 3 Greene, STEM has and apply it to the been giving Perry a future is benefi cial,” lot of attention with she said. World/Nation: radio interviews, to In a recent press One hundred years ago, an article in US News Joe Greene release, the Arizona Arizona joined the United and World Report. Department of States of America. Today, If the STEM Education announced Feb. 14, marks the day in program progresses, a new that it is awarding a $25 which AZ offi cially became computer science program million grant for education a state of the U.S. Arizona would also be introduced at (from the ‘Race to the Top’ was declared part of the PHS. contest). Arizona will use the Territory of New Mexico Greene says that the money to build a data system until southern New Mexico STEM program was a good which parents, students, seceded from the union as deal-breaker for future eighth teachers and administrators Confederate Territory of graders that were choosing will be able to track the Arizona in 1861. photo by Sarah Crow between other schools, and progress of each student. Junior Thomas Granado and Junior Alice Burgess set off catapults built in Physics class, one of  e fi rst attempt at that it will bring lots of kids Another portion of the the numerous programs to be enhanced by the STEM program beginning next year. statehood in 1891 was rejected by congress, who later tried admitting New Mexico and Arizona Proposed bills put the internet in danger territories as one state (which are started, relationships are of entertainment - whether  ese acts are aimed at taking site for copyrighted material. was also rejected).  en, in By Raphael Shafeev created and basic needs and the precedent movies or music or video down websites that post said While the users, on the other 1912, then President William wants are purchased over it. hand, were calling out the Howard Taft signed off games - and sharing of has copyrighted material. By Since being created during So it would make simple sense grown exponentially.  e act monitoring the content posted government for their blatant Arizona as part of the United the Cold War, the Internet that people would strongly attempt at censorship of the States of America. of sharing anything, for free on a website, the Justice Dept. has been an extraordinary protest the censorship of this or profi t, that needs to be behind the two acts can cut Internet. invention that has phenomenon. purchased from the producer funding for the website off , as With the only support revolutionized the modern  e Stop Online Piracy of the product is considered well as block search engines, for the bills being the Table of Contents world along with everyone Act (SOPA) and the ProtectIP copyright infringement, and such as Google, from letting congressmen that wrote them, News || 1-3 in it. Act (PIPA), introduced in the is illegal across the United people search for the site. and with the nation-wide  e Internet has evolved House of Representatives and States. Internet users and website black out of major site such as Opinions || 4-5 incredibly fast over the past the Senate respectively, have Yet for every person caught owners around the nation cried Wikipedia on Jan. 18, the bills Features || 6-7 decade, taking society along been stirring up quit a ruckus downloading something out in protest against SOPA were eff ectively stalled from a A & E || 8-9 with it. Most interactions around America. for free, there are tens of and PIPA. Major community voting session in Congress. between people are based on Both SOPA and PIPA thousands of people who get website companies called the Yet the war on plagiarism is Sports || 10-12 the Internet, be it small talk are aimed at taking down away with it daily. bills out, saying they could not yet dead on Capitol over Facebook or buying and copyright infringement. It is for this reason that not monitor every bit of user see INTERNET page 2 selling on Ebay. Businesses Recently, the uploading SOPA and PIPA were created. generated content on their 2 news || the precedent || februaury 2012 Teen spending effecting the economy Talented junior

Our counry suffering Perry High school showed results working toward from each grade’s weekly spending from the bad economy habits. However, the percentages Ivy league might be comming to collected from the survey and the By Alyx Alcala an end, thanks to the percentages collected from the the precedent average American’s yearly income high amount of student were not synonymous. All bright high school students When asked the question, “On deserve an opportunity to obtain spending. average, how much money do you prestige in the university of their spend a week,” students throughout choice, but in this time of economic By Lauren Moore hardship, diligent students are held the precedent each grade responded with various answers. The general consensus back from a world of possibilities For anyone that hasn’t been living gathered from the freshmen class due to financial circumstances. under a rock for the past year, the was approximately $30 a week, Paola Carrasco, an academically current state of which the economy sophomore’s $50, junior’s $80, and talented junior is working toward is in, is no surprise. senior’s $100. her ideal college . The entire country has been When averaged, the total amount “Ivy League Project is an suffering from what is said to be the of money spent by each individual opportunity for students who aren’t greatest recession since the Great high school student is $65 a week. financially capable, to visit these Depression in the 1930’s. With approximately 2,400 schools,” says Carrasco. Research has proven that in the students at PHS and $65 being photo by Lani Dekker Universities such as Columbia, last couple of months, the economy spent by each high school student Senior, Alexis Edrington, is appalled by the price of lunches given by lunch- Harvard, Princeton and Yale are has improved due to the decline in on a weekly basis, one can clearly lady, Christen Clark. made available to all worthy students the unemployment rate; going from see that the entire student body at with fundraising, giving them 9.1% in July to 8.5& in December Perry alone spends over $8,712,000 money, one can figure that teenagers job, most students responded with an advantage in the competitive according to Expert Finance in just one year. are huge contributors to the fueling no. admissions process. Money. According to Expert Finance of the economy. “Since I do have a job, I spend “It provides workshops, and However, the average American’s Money, the average American Considering that a large majority more money than I ever spent before you raise the money with a whole yearly earning salary has only household brings in approximately of the upperclassmen at Perry have because I know that if I run out, I bunch of people who have their improved .12% from July to $63,091 a year and the average part-time jobs, many students have can just make more.” grades up and are involved in the December, but this minute increase money spent in an American a better concept of money and its This seems to be the general community,” explains Carrasco, “so in percentages might constitute an household is about $49,638. importance. thought process behind students’ they are all able to go visit.”The Ivy excessive amount of spending on If one student alone spends When asked if they are more spending habits, and many people League Project gives participants the American teenager’s part. $3,380 a year that makes up .7% financially conscious with money fear that it is going to be detrimental advantage of talking to the deans A recent survey conducted at of a family’s yearly expenditure of because of the fact that they have a to the already weak economy. and the admission counselors. “You get one on ones, so it’s a higher possibility to find scholarships,” says Carrasco. Extra Curricular Breakdown In order to raise funds for the Green Thumbs and Science Project, Carrasco is offering her tutoring services, in hopes that the By Michael Wolfe school performance. Harrion does By Rachel Lattin The uses of the garden are yet to knowledge which gained her such a the precedent everything she can to maintain great the precedent be decided. prestigious opportunity, would also grades and would quit if volleyball According to Morgan, the garden be of aid in covering tuition. got in the way. will eventually be used in biology “Right now I’m just tutoring one Harrion practices, not only classes. More than 50% of the students Each year, honors science of my little sister’s friend, I haven’t volleyball daily, but also practices Andrade, member of the had anyone ask from school or on campus are involved in an extra- her school work daily and never lets students are required to participate Chandler Service Club: Flowers curricular activity, whether it is a in the annual science fair. anything,” says Carrasco “So far it’s the two cross. Girls, decided to create the garden as alright.” club or a sport. Sophomore Brittany Puccio is a The 2012 science fair was held on her “Priority Project” for the club. But how does that affect their Saturday, Jan. 28. Carrasco’s specialty is French, part of winter guard and although “It’s another way to get since she is in AP French 4, but she performance in school? they practice every morning, Puccio Students could create an involved. I’m also very interested in “The better structure and experiment in any subject of science; is also proficient in math years one does not let it hurt her grades sustainability,” Andrade said. through three. support a student gets at home, the nor does she let it change her it allows them to design their own The Districts had to first approve more it will help the student,” said experiment using the scientific Some students are discouraged performance in school. the project; they gave her permission when it comes to scoping out unique math teacher Misty Falkner. “I wouldn’t say winter guard process. to plant the garden by the houses in According to Falkner, the students Science fair projects are judged opportunities like Carrasco’s, but comes first, there is more of a the student parking lot. she found it right here on campus, [in a club or sport] performance in balance between the two for me,” and scored by teachers of the science Materials must be donated before school all depends on the support department. making it known how essential said Puccio. the creation of the garden. it is to be resourceful. Carrasco they receive at home. Puccio makes sure that she puts The winner this year was Sam Many students, teachers and “No [swim doesn’t come first] and Curl. Curl, along with three other is considering a profession in more importance on her school clubs have already expressed an architecture or journalism, “but I'm if it affected my school performance work than on her sport. projects, will participate in the interest in helping with the garden. I would drop it,” sophomore Halley Hamilton Invitational Science and still looking at what will be most For senior Cody Weisenberger, “Anyone who wants to be beneficial for my future.” Nisleit says. Nisleit says that she soccer has not gotten in the way of Engineering Fair (HISEF). involved will have the opportunity maintains an average of B’s. After HISEF, a project can go as “And I'm looking into Columbia maintaining an average of A’s. after the garden is fully planted,” University; Harvard, even,” says Nisleit does not let swim Weisenberger does not allow for far as international levels. Andrade said. influence her school performance, According to science department Carrasco optimistically of her soccer to interfere with his school Anyone interested in helping out future. although it does influence her social performance and would quit if his head Jerry Bell, at this high of a level, can talk to Morgan in room F212. life. Somehow, Nisleit says she still grades were affected. students can win money, grants and finds time to do her homework and “I try my hardest in all I do scholarships. will not let swim impact her school and I would never let soccer get in Science fair is worth a very large performance. the way of doing well in school,” portion of a student’s grade. Although Nisleit puts importance said Weisenberger. Weisenberger The project is assigned in October on her swimming career, she does never let’s soccer get in the way of and due in late January. not let it impact how she would do performing well in school and will Though this is a time consuming in high school and never let’s swim always put school first. project, Bell believes the hours put get in the way. For most students at Perry that into it are worth it. “Of course Volleyball doesn’t are involved in a club or sport, their “Students who really apply come first,” sophomore Kahri school performance is not impacted themselves to it get a lot out of it,” Harrion says. Harrion says that she by the extra-curricular activity that Bell said. does her best and tries her hardest they involve themselves in. Students are encouraged to create not to let volleyball impact her an experiment that will benefit society; this year, some student’s projects were designed specifically to benefit PHS. Internet bills declined In the spring, senior Gabby SOPA, PIPA behind the bill, would track down Andrade, with the help of science continued from page 1 foreign-based media sharing sites teacher Stephanie Morgan, is and issue a cease and desist order planting a “sustainable, organic hill. Learning from their mistakes, to payment processors (like Visa or garden” on campus. A few students Rep. Darrell Issa (R-California) Paypal) and advertising companies based their experiments on the introduced the Online Protection to stop business with the site in best soil and types of plants for the and Enforcement of Digital Trade question. garden. Act (OPEN). So far, the act has received wide- “We were originally going to use This new act is now more directly spread support among Internet giants all organic soil but the data showed aimed at taking down websites that like Google, Facebook and Twitter. that may not be best,” Morgan said. willfully promote and are only The future of entertainment Though there is still some based off of media sharing, such as protection seems to be looking up, retesting that needs to be done, MediaFire or the late MegaUpload. while media-sharing sites ought to these experiments gave an idea of The International Trade start worrying about their (ending) what would be best. Commission (ITC), the authority reigns over the Internet. news || the precedent || february 2012 3 PHS Blood New ‘humanities’ course will merge History Drive and English concepts for 2012-13 school year By Haley Witt serves to the precedent With each passing year, PHS continues to flourish in the number of students attending, as well as the save lives number of classes. It’s rare that the Chandler Unified School District expands its course catalogue, but thanks to the efforts of English teacher Rhonda Duering, a new humanities class will be offered next year, adding to the vast array of electives already present. So what exactly is humanities? According to Duering, it would be like “if history got married to English and had a baby…and [the baby] was very interesting and good- looking.” To clarify, students will be reading historic novels that focus on move- ments of history and philosophy. The class will be offered as dual credit - it will count for college as well as high school credit - adding even more appeal to certain students. The elective will serve as fulfilling photo by Victoria Lovvorn the introductory humanities classes English teacher Rhonda Duering facilitates a class debate last week during first hour. a student would be taking in college. photo by Sarah Crow “Ms. Duering makes it seems like Sophomore, Austin Dunning, among it’s going to be fun,” Junior Jensen for students in the following year. as it took Duering two years to get classes because we have everything many other Perry students prepared Penrod said. “I think I’m kicking it approved before they would even we need,” Greene said. “It just to have their blood drawn during “Plus its dual credit, so it’s good butt,” Duering joked. consider writing it in the course all depends on the interest of the the PHS blood drive. Each person for college.” Assistant principal Joe Green says catalogue. student body and who I have to donated enough blood to save three With humanities offering so that he’s received about 30 requests As for the future of the school teach it.” people. The blood drive proved to much to students, other electives from students, which is enough to and additional classes being offered, be very successful in the 2011-12 such as speech class or even staples make a class. Greene is doubtful. school year. like photography could be competing The class is a long time coming, “I really don’t see a lot of new 4 opinions || the precedent || february 2012 Staff Editorial Funny to you, Does the “legal” age entail true freedom? into consideration is the fact that most of them are still living at home. BAILEY So how can one be independent demeaning to BYERS the precedent while living with ‘mommy and daddy’ still providing for you. Parents still me have control over an 18 teen year old, as long as they are living under there e hold these truths to be self- roof, in most families that is how it evident, that all men are created works. And most parents say the cliché equal…” What does this actuallyW mean in our society today? “it is my house my rules”. Words are the most powerful tool, is is actually a reasonable rule for and they can both build you up and tear any parent to make, if there child is 18 you down; despite the “sticks and stones” and doesn’t provide for them self. Why underestimation. should they be treated as an adult? In Discrimination comes out of ignorant actuality once a teen turns 18 they are mouths as snide comments, made to put photo by Brianna Bartos an adult, they can vote, go get tatted people into invisible clusters when truly, it is up, and much more. But does from a failure to recognize them as an individual. Once teenagers hit that fateful age of eighteen, questions begin to arise as to wheth- er or not they have truly attained freedom. being 17 to 18 really change there In an environment where fi ltering is not maturity level, no, the mind set of an a priority, racial slurs and sexist remarks reedom it is what our country was But more and more newly 18 year olds 18-year-old and a 17-year-old is the run rampant, and equality is hard to fi nd. realize that being 18 is not all that it is Everyone is subject to it, whether it is being founded upon and turning 18 is same, it does not change over night. the instigator, the victim, or the enabling a teenager’s happiest moment made up to be. In my mind they should be treated the inF life. e freedom of being 18 and Complete in dependence is what is same, as a high school students, until bystander. Such humor is of course comical for all but the oppressed, then again, who having control of your own life is a in the mind of many once they hit that they can provide for themselves. would do anything else but laugh? dream for most high school students. miracle age, but what they dot take Because of a general tension between ethnicities, the gap is far and wide and to make light of it, students misguidedly utter stereotypical jokes to evade the eBooks taking over an American pastime uncomfortable. Racism and sexism are not absent; they check in at school everyday just Recently, society has as you do. RAPHAEL As a defense mechanism, we are taught to SHAFEEV taken a turn brush off off ensive comments in an eff ort to the precedent away from protect our self-esteem. And in the moment traditional a “joke” is made, both parties laugh it off , reading hab- its. Kindles, when it really has a deeper impact. Since the dawn of time, mankind has It can be seen all around campus, even struggled to preserve history and civilized Nooks, and in our thoughts, we pass judgments without thought to last throughout lifetimes of future various even getting to know a person. But this generation’s eyes. other e-Readers subconscious habit has gone beyond the e median on which they chose to are taking mind and has turned into a form of verbal successfully do this was, and still is, paper. So why is it that our present generation the place degradation. is trying to stamp out traditional books and of old- is is exhibited almost as second nature, replace them with the devilry that is the fashioned “Oh, it’s because he’s/she’s… [insert ethnicity E-Book Reader? novels. here],” or “she should know her place: in Books have been around since the ancient photo by Brianna the kitchen.” Jokes like these are funny at Chinese dynasties fi rst invented paper. Bartos fi rst glance, but they are deeply rooted in From that time on, the invention has spread intolerance. Many kids feel superior to others across the globe as a wild fi re would. for superfi cial reasons, such as skin color, Writing on said paper even turned into an It is for that reason that people often judge To them, I say that they could have a point. background, or gender, but in my opinion art in itself. the contents of a book by how it looks. A half pound iPad is much more convenient demeaning others with traits that cannot be With the combination of paper and writing E-Readers rip this away from us. ey set than ten pounds of paper one would have to came the fi rst books, which were regarded as controlled is just about the lowest one can a uniform to how all books “should” look. carry for three books. luxurious as the fi nest things in life. ey give a standard to the pages and font and Does that give people reason to throw stoop. e wealthy and royal were the only ones letterings of the content. away hard covers and paperbacks though? e I’ve witnessed an instance in which a Black to lay hands on books until recent ages. Some may argue that having libraries stored common man still uses CDs, and vinyl has student was compared to a Barbados woman In speaking about books, one cannot even on a small tablet is convenient to their lives. become popular recently. in the fi lm our class was watching. Said take reading as the only experience. at dozens of college textbooks fi tting in So why is the familiar median of paper student laughed awkwardly and tried to blow e smell of ink and paper, the touch and their pocket on their smart phone or Nook is being rid in books? off the false comparison of skin color, but the feel of the book gives a sensation all in its the better alternative to carrying them on their discomfort was obvious. own. backs. Skin color dominates judgment, and is another form of stereotyping; not all people of Hispanic descent are Mexican, not all people with dark skin are African, and not all staff information Asians are Chinese. the precedent Along with ethnic prejudice, sexist walls Pride • Progress • Purpose are put up in school. Restrictions are placed on both genders; for example, females are generalized as inferior to males. Archaic || Opinions Editor || || Assistant Editors || characterizations of what a woman should Perry High School Brianna Bartos Alyx Alcala || Staff Reporters || be has stuck over the years, despite female 1919 E. Queen Creek Rd. progression in society. When a man is Ciera Woodfi n Travis Klein || A & E Editor || assertive, he is labeled as a man, but when a Gilbert, AZ 85297 Kiwi Asare Joelle Landry woman does the same she is given a less-than 480-224-2800 Brooke Karakey Lani Dekker Rachel Lattin fl attering title, that rhymes with itch. 480-224-2820 fax Victoria Lovvorn Also, performing arts (such as dancing, || Features Editor || || Staff Reporters || Kaileigh McCormick acting, and singing) often fall below the || Newspaper Adviser || Skeeter Arvizu Mitchell Albrecht Lauren Moore masculine standards and there is a low Damien Tippett Katelyn Escalante Raphael Shafeev tolerance. Boys are often criticized for their || Sports Editor || Tatyana Garcia Austin Williams participation in “feminine” activities, and for || Editor-In-Chief || Drew Crawford Caly Heath Haley Witt this reason are presumed to be gay. Thomas Pipia Brennen Hennings Michael Wolfe “Your joke is not my joke,” Kathleen || Photo Editor || Alli Klassen Hanna stated clearly, on her daily struggle Skeeter Arvizu with sexism. And that is exactly what jokers fail to realize. Overall, respect for fellow human beings The Precedent is published by the student newspaper staff at Perry High School. Opinions expressed in the paper are of the writers and do not is essential; no matter your opinion for necessarily refl ect those of The Precedent staff, the adviser, the faculty, or the administration of Perry High School. Please e-mail all questions, someone of another gender or ethnicity, you comments, guest articles, or letters to the editor to [email protected]. All submissions must be signed; however, requests for anonymity owe them the respect of seeing them through may be honored. accepting eyes. opinions || the precedent || february 2012 5 point|counterpoint: In romance, he said, she said On campus The basics of “bro code” Guidelines to “girl code” How do you feel it can. about the “Bro Personally, I have had a female quite frankly. This understandable TRAVIS friend for over six years, and there STEVIE etiquette is applicable to either best Code/Girl Code?” KLEIN TOMASZEWSKI friends or close friends that were the precedent have been zero cases of discomfort special to between us. the precedent involved in a serious relationship This is because we are true friends with the guy in question. and are always there for each other What about that one guy your Alex Gasca no matter what. friend’s friend- of- a- friend dated a Senior “Dude, I’m your bro,” “Come So what exactly is the Bro Code? Ahh, girl code. The tacit, intricate, couple months ago? Is that violating on man we’ve been friends forever!”, There are many variations and and rather often taboo set of rules girl code? Not exactly. “Dude, bros before …” different opinions about it that can and guidelines that every girl seems I find it acceptable for a girl to These are the typical one-liners formulate hundreds and hundreds to know; however, most of the time be free to date a boy who was once that a guy will say to his friend once of versions. protocol is misconstrued and up with an acquaintance of theirs. a friendship is compromised. Why is this true? Because every After all, this is high school and It is typically called being a good just because you’re “friends” or friend – but to us guys it’s better know the girl who dated the boy known as the ‘Bro Code’. you’re crushing on doesn’t mean It may seem a little childish to she holds eternal dibs on him, so think about or even follow this I’m calling fair game on this one. unwritten rule, but to guys it is No matter how you slice it, girls somewhat mandatory. are always striving to be the best. “Bro Code is doing what No offense to the beautiful ladies Competition is around every corner, you want. We [guys] do that surround us in our everyday especially in high school- rivalry lives, but guys do not like to have to of who has the best clothes, best what we want. For guys, put girls before their longtime guy hair, coolest car- but what happens it’s [a breakup] not as friends. between you and your girls when it much of an emotional There have been many instances comes to sports? where friendships have been torn Athletics are the one place in detachment.” apart and ruined, all because the school where it is easy to make guys have not respected this magical new friends since everyone has code. something in common: the love of Now how can that be, you ask? the sport. But when jockeying for a Taylor Chesley Ha! Let’s focus on something that certain position with a friend during Junior can be debatable: Guy friend versus try-outs, or a big game or meet, the guy friend for the last spot on a situation can get kind of sticky. sports team. You both have your own goals, Do you make it fun by trying your and it’s fair to go after yours without hardest and if you do not measure feeling guilty about leaving her up, just shrug it off? Or should you behind. What’s so wrong with some two take it seriously and both go all friendly competition? out: blood, sweat, and tears? It’s important to remember to stick Go all out! to your guns and not let your friend Push your friend to his limit coax you into getting off of your and see if he truly deserves the spot A-game. Support each other along over you; if he happens to beat you, the way while still keeping your head “The “Girl Code” means shrug it off, rub some dirt in it, and in the game. Let the best woman win! go back to being best friends. Girls tend to have guy friends nothing to [most] girls. Now, on to a problem that has because they are looking for an But, exes are off limits for happened in the past and still occurs honest friendship as well as a break friends [to date].” to this day: your ex-girlfriend dates from how dramatic girls can be, but your best friend. it’s difficult to maintain that friendly Some wonder how this happens; photo by Brianna Bartos vibe when you constantly hear, “Awh, easy: when your relationship goes Once teenagers hit that fateful age of eighteen, questions begin to you guys would make such a cute Jalen Stringer to the dumps and you are broken- arise as to whether or not they have truly attained freedom. couple!” Then come the awkward hearted about it, your best friend glances exchanged between you and Sophomore gets the bright idea of filling your guy is different (yes girls, not all guys for many different interpretations. your best guy friend when you both spot and begins to date her. are the same). Although a slew of the rules are off- try to play it off as nothing and pull As selfish as it may seem, this is a However, if you approach any guy the -wall, there are three in particular the “we’re just friends” card. big no-no. asking what the that stand out to me as the most Neither of you may admit it, and I mean, sure, you There have been many most important controversial. it might be the case right now, but I should be happy instances where friendships have part of this code One issue every girl is prone to can tell you time and time again that for your friend for “been torn apart and ruined, is, they will all face in her lifetime is the subject it won’t always stay that way. finding someone all because the guys have not agree on one of her best friend dating her ex, or If the feelings aren’t mutual, that he connects respected this magical code.” thing: Guys her wanting to date her best friend’s it’s best to just come out and say with and has a should always ex for that matter. It’s all the same, it before you lead them on for good time with; put their guy really, and can be answered simply: too long and someone gets hurt. but dating your ex is no bueno. friends before any girl (excluding NO. Whether you follow the girl Now can being friends with mothers, sisters, aunts, etc.) no The ex-boyfriend of one of code sparsely or view it as the “If one of your friends someone of the opposite gender matter the case. your best friends should always be commandments of femininity, there likes a girl, you can’t actually work without a hint of Because that is just what guys off limits, no questions asked. It are certain policies that shouldn’t go go behind his back; it awkwardness occurring? Well, sure do. shouldn’t even be a consideration, unrecognized between girls. will ruin it for all three Bri’s Brief: Trend following becomes excessive people. Don’t be a jerk.” s human beings, people often feel a fundamental need to fit in. To not matter that Twitter may not be suitable or even needed in the lives of experience acceptance. The fear of failure or rejection often holds a some people; the simple fact that “everyone is doing it” causes kids to sprint person back from fulfilling what they desire. Maybe this is why so to sign up. Kyley Chesley Amany young adults seem to follow the same trends as they come and go. It While the concept of peer pressure has appeared in society time and time Freshman is sad to view adolescents of the twenty-first century acting so alike, to the again, it is not necessarily underage drinking and drug consumption that point where originality seems to have died a little bit. are the only risks; now, the new menace remains loss of individuality. It is When walking through school hallways, seeing students, many trends hard to battle something so totally engulfing, yet under-the-radar as a lack are followed, but not many are created. While a decent of uniqueness. number of against-the-tide hipsters rebel and sport Most adults would agree that their high school years original styles, a large group of teenagers can be seen in BRIANNA were filled with similar experiences in which peers bounded increasingly similar outfits, all wearing the same brands, BARTOS onto the social bandwagon, but this is a new age! So many looks, and shoes (Vans, anyone?). The sea of students the precedent things have changed since then, so why can’t this? begins to resemble an ocean of carbon copies. While Trends are not necessarily “bad,” but they can be oh so inspiration is positive in many areas, kids are too creative monotonous. to settle for straight replication. Students should take chances every so often. Stay Even consumerism and social networking are directly one mile beside the bandwagon, not on it. Cut against “It’s not bailing on your affected by this constant need to appear like everyone else. Apple has that the norm. Because, honestly, high school would be so much more fun if “sheep-are-followers-and-when-one-sheep-walks-off-a-cliff-the-rest-will- people were comfortable acting like themselves, instead of shoving their girl pals for a guy. And follow” mentality to thank for the apparent insurgence of iPhone purchasers personalities into a cookie-cutter mold. whoever liked him [a during the holidays this year. Once those couple cool people show up to guy] first, gets him.” class holding the sleek device, many others soon see its “awesomeness” and vow to purchase and/or beg their parents for one. Also, just as Facebook became the new MySpace, Twitter is becoming the new Facebook. It does 6 features || the precedent || february 2012 features || the precedent || february 2012 7

To: Chessie Fifi eld From: Anonymous To: Hardy Har Har To: Skeeter’s ripped pants To: Leslie Dominguez and Lauren Moore To: Austin Buck From: He He From:  e Hamburgler Hey, I saw you one day walking through the hallway and you’re From: Jasmine Figueroa From: Cupid really cute! Be my Valentine? Don’t trip choclate chip ;) You look good today. Soo, we really need to fi gure out a night that we can have fun. You’re a sexy (beautiful) boy! Purrrr ;) You feel me? Love you guys! To: Carolina Gonzalez To: Alyx, Stevie, Ashley, Marcella, Ashlyn To: Evan From: Esteban Maldonado To:  omas Pipia From: Bri From: Aaron To: Mom From: Stephanie Della Cella I love you with all my heart! And I want to be with you until the From: Abbie  ank you guys for being amazing friends! I love you all <3 I’m sorry about what I did to jesper…. :/ end! So will you please just be mine? You are a poop. I love you thanks for all you do for me! Happy Valentine’s Day! To: Maddie Gumm <3 To: , Kayli, and Komal To: Jennifer To: Raphael From: Joelle Landry From: Dillon From: the sexy beast’s that loves you! To: Amanda Walsh From: Gaby From: Tyler sill Happy Valentines Day Babe! You’re my favorite and I’m so happy Do you work at Little Caesars, because you’re hot and I’m ready.  e back of your head is ridiculous! We love you! I like the way you start. :) I met you! You complete me and I love you! Your amazing! Happy one year babe!  is has been the best year ever and I hope to spend many more together. To: Ryan Coukoulis To: Priyanka Datta To: Joelle Landry From: Anonymus From: Kelsie, Wyatt, and Hannah From: Maddie Gumm To: La Rissa Lovely To: Sydney G. From: (Vinny) Tyler Virden I dream about you…every night. Your eyes…blue as the ocean. I From: Bella C. Happy Birthday Priyanka, we love you! To the woman I love the most, you mean so much to me. I have love you. P.S. – “Shalome Home!” no idea where i would be without you boo <3 Love you more I’m glad I met you… Hope you have a great Valentine’s day! Your personality out shines us all, even nicks hair. Haha! Love than anything. Happy Valentines day!! I Love You! you! To: Sarah Chapple To: Emily Chmura From: Samantha N. From: Austin Woodworth To: Lani Dekker To:  e table I eat lunch with To: Patrick Zhen From: Your Secret Admirer From: Me You’re the greatest friend and science buddy ever. Love ya! <3 From: Anonymous You are my best best best best best friend in the whole wide world. I love you so much. (as a friend!) Oh LaiLani! Henelihehe! You are the bestest ever! I love you You suck, except Samantha and Bella. I love you from the bottom of my heart! with a burning passion of fi re! I’m expecting a dozen roses on To: Baren Titus Valentine’s Day! From: Emily Heherbran To: Anna Schmelling To: All my Friends To: Josh Nadeau From: Sarah From: Ali I love you! Now make me a sandwich. From: Your Secret Admirer To: You Will you be my Valentine forever? I think you’re pretty ugly and From: Shannon Greenwood You guys are the best! Everyone in PE: you’re probably the coolest Dear mine! You are the best lion a girl could ever know! I love weird but that’s okay. people I know! My scary emo friends: You guys just make me To: Emily Herhbrand you with a passion of a thousand burning suns! Hehehehehe my  e goats shine brighter on the Baltic sea when covered in look cool. JK :P From: Baren Titus mine! mustard. Love, your mine! :) To: Anne No, make it yourself. From: Lauren To: Emilio Vazquez To: Lani From: Anna Schmeling To: My Sister I hope you have a really great Valentines Day! Love you! xoxo From: La Rissa To: Tatyana Garcia From: Anonymous Uhmm You’re pretty amazing. And I love you. Kbai. From: Skeeter Mehna! Mehna!  ank you for being the most amazing thing ever you crazy rascal I love you so much and you’re amazing, you’re the best sister To: Ciera Woodfi n you. Happy Valentines Day :3 anyone could have. From: Shananana To: Candy Panda Bear To: Emiwy From: Brown Bear You’re amazing! Friends forever & ever & ever & ever! :) From: Tommy To: Kenny Mcmurphy To: Caly Heath -Love, Shananana :) You’re the bestest friend ever & I know you hate Valentines day, From: Secret Admires From: Asher Gamer You are the poopiest pooper I ever pooped. Less-than-three kitty but I love you! face. Dear Kenny, You’re beautiful!  ank you for being good looking! To: Gaby I just love all your freckles! I think you’re cute, funny, and you From: Raphael To: Ashley make me laugh. I absolutely adore you unique personality! You’re To: Jessey Lara From: Katelyn one of a kind. To: Alyssa Corrigan Quality From: You know Keep calm and carry a wand! Valentines Day may be a bit From: Daniel Young ------overrated, but you are quite seriously and undeniably the best! Quantity I LOVE YOU. Period. End of story. I love you, Aly!! To: Dani & Katie From: Lani Valentine vexation: public display of affection You are Amazing Girls! You are the coolest people I know! I love “Facebook offi cial” off sets the meaning of dating you so much! By Tatyana Garcia Heather Patterson said. wrong with holding hands or casual students may be off ended as well. By Drew Crawford through the hallways around can be detrimental. relationship statuses part of a larger the precedent - Love Lani :) Patterson has noticed student hugs between friends or signifi cant Junior Marisa Piemont says, the precedent campus, echoing off the cool metal Dispute is not only seen on this, scope than necessary. With Valentine’s Day being one couples canoodling in the hallways, others, but the other stuff is just “It only becomes a problem when Whoever coined the phrase that of the locker room, or exchanged but on the response to relationship In retrospect though, this is a of the more romantic holidays of and although they may think that inappropriate,” Strojny said. [bystanders] start becoming couples dating are “in their own within a classroom setting. statuses as well. technical side to dating that does the year, couples tend to express no one can see, she makes sure that Strojny is also infamous for teasing uncomfortable.” world” may not be too far off from A large focus of this jargon is What about that friend that chose not matter. their aff ection for each other more they know to be more discreet next student couples. She is never mean, When it comes to the issue the truth. relationship statuses on Facebook. for whatever reason not to like (or  e reality is that a return to publicly. When it comes to couples time, sometimes leaving the students she simply tends to step between of teenage couples expressing  at is, if they are talking about After all something can only be in other terms Facebook “offi cially” the mannerisms and simplicity of at Perry High School, some people blushing from embarrassment. them and make funny comments endearment toward their signifi cant the virtual world. offi cial if it is displayed in acrylic approve of) one of these statuses? dating a couple decades ago is much simply do not know where to draw Patterson is not the only adult to make them so embarrassed, they others, it is noted that the majority A society that used to view blue type on the social networking Unfortunately in high school a needed. A kind remark well received, the line. on campus to witness this grotesque walk away from the shame. of people feel neutral about the dating in the stereotypical spotlight site right? valuable friendship could be riding a simple kiss, or a nice fl ower goes a “ at’s personal business and it act. English teacher, Pat Strojny, has Although it is expected of whole thing. As long as the love of romantic dinners and pond-  e drama resulting in online on the click of a button or the tap long way. should be done on their own time, attested to detecting couples in the teachers and administrators to birds are keeping it “PG” rated in side scenery has been blown out of friends responses towards whether of a mouse. Oh and please, just as an not on my time, [or on any other act as well. react negatively about the issue, it the hallways, everyone should be proportion on Facebook. someone has decided to make a Just like many others I admit afterthought, do not break up with student’s time],” assistant principal “I don’t think there’s anything is not taken into consideration that able to enjoy the amorous holiday. Gossip can be found drifting relationship offi cial online or not that I am guilty of making Facebook your signifi cant other online. 8 arts & entertainment || the precedent || february 2012 The Grey Perry Idol showcases students many unique talents the audience and the performers. Not By Caly Heath “scratches” the precedent only did it showcase student talent, but it also provided entertainment Hundreds of students lined up for students and teachers alike. the surface on January 25 to support fellow The auditorium was packed with pumas in the fourth annual Perry everyone anticipating the next act. By Brennen Hennings Idol. Twenty of the best acts were “I always get butterflies before I the precedent selected to compete against one go on stage, but I was really excited,” It seems lately, that horror another for the treasured title. said Wilde. movies are “all the rage.” With Among these twenty acts was senior, Even with an enthusiastic and major blockbusters like Paranormal Katie Hardin, who performed an loud audience, Hardin wasn’t Activity, Saw and Halloween, horror inspirational spoken word and took nervous at all. has been redefined into a blend of home one hundred dollars and the “I have been on stage my bloody maulings by an assortment chance to perform at the whole life I grew out of of weapons – the most efficient next assembly. having stage fright and being none other than silence and “I had no idea I would nervousness,” she said. it’s ability to steal the very air from win,” said Hardin about Perry Idol was a huge your lungs. the chances of her win, success, as it is every year. The Grey however, is the first “There were a lot of good “It gave me a lot of movie in a long time to successfully acts, I felt very humbled.” confidence and a lot of break this new stereotype for horror Placing second was appreciation for the other films. Directed by Joe Carnahan, Bri Jarvis, Cassie Ronai, contestants. Before the The Grey is first most a survival film; Leighann Reynolds, Katie Hardin show I was able to meet but due to the frightening reality Melissa Wilde, and Meagan so many great people I'd that is the plot, it demands to be Waaramaa dancing to never met before. I wish acknowledged as more than a simple “Harder, Better, Faster, Stronger.” I could have shared our victory action flick. “I had absolutely NO idea we with all of them, they were all so When a plane holding a group would place, I honestly just thought amazing,” said Jarvis. With all the of roughneck oil drillers crashes into we would be the funny last act,” said talented pumas in the school, it an icy wasteland in Alaska – which Wilde. must have been difficult to pick is also home to a pack of ravenous “I wasn't sure how well we would just two winners. “The experience “super” wolves – it appears that do, but I was hoping we would place was so much fun for all of us. It was hell has indeed frozen over. Liam because our act was something new awesome to bond as teammates. We Neeson, playing a survivalist named and different,” said Waaramaa about did get to meet a lot of new people Ottoman, is hired to put down the their unique routine. for the show it was awesome getting big bad wolves that are attacking “It was so intimidating for us,” to meet everyone and spend time members of the drilling crew. His said Reynolds, “We had no idea with them backstage,” said Reynolds, task becomes a deadly challenge we would actually place, so it was “Perry Idol was such a fun process however, when he finds that he, photo by Bonarden Clark exciting to know that all our hard and it was an honor to be a part of it. along with a handful of survivors (From left) Magan Waaramaa, 12, Melissa Wilde, 12, Bri Jarvis, 12, Leighann work paid off.”The show as a whole I wouldn’t trade this experience for are in fact being stalked by these Reynolds, 12, and Cassie Ronai, 12, perform a dance entitled “Harder, Bet- was an amazing experience for both the world.” unrelenting monsters. ter, Faster, Stronger” to place second in the Fourth Annual Perry Idol. With no where to go, the survivors are forced into a fatal game Drama Club gives back to Haley Elementary theatre children of cat and mouse, and with their By Lani Dekker relationships,” shares Miller, creator on stage, they learn about public help the community with something lives on the line, there is no room for the precedent error. The group quickly learns that of the club. speaking, and how to improvise if I’m passionate about, and at the the weak will perish and the strong Many clubs try to reach out and The students in drama club something goes wrong. same time I’m practicing my own will endure, but with time running help the community, now it is drama dedicate their time every Tuesday Junior, Katelyn Schultze is one of acting and directing skills,” Schultze out and their numbers dwindling; club’s turn. Drama has decided that it after school to help these kids get the many students who help out at shares. the future does not look bright in is their time to help the community ready for their production. Haley, especially since her little sister As this junior actor training the grey. and make a difference in the world. They sit in during rehearsals; then is also in this drama club getting an continues the club continues to Based on a very real scenario, this As a club, they are helping Haley the Puma players help the Haley kids early start in acting. think of other ways to reach out and film deconstructs the idea of men Elementary with their production of fix their characters and give them “I like the fact that I am able to do the things they love. being fearless by capturing every Under the sea with Ariel and friends useful acting tips that they could use emotion of the ragtag team in it’s featuring Nemo. Amy Miller, Special in future productions. rawest form. Suspicion, paranoia, Ed teacher and director, created this “The High School students are fear, panic and finally the acceptance play remix herself. great role models for our elementary of death. The Grey is absolutely There are over 100 students in students. They have experience that thrilling and contains an ending that this production and she wants to they bring to our practices and work raises many questions.The ending make sure every child feels important so well with our students,” Miller not only leaves you with your mouth in this show. explained. slightly open, but it is one of those “The Haley Elementary Drama By doing this, the kids receive endings that can go both ways. Club is an after-school club great insight on how the world of that provides opportunities for theater works as well as many life students with and without special skills. Photo by Amanda Wegleitner needs to integrate and form social For instance, when acting a part Member of the drama club (from right) ,Amanda Crawley, Tearza Foyston, Josh Nadeau, Megan Chappel, Nolan Guy, and Katie Hardin. Yummy Buffet gives best of both American and Asian cuisine By Lani Dekker buffet, you think about warm, is row upon row of freshly cooked grill for yet another exciting eating Buffet offers a relaxing open dining the precedent generic dishes in trays lined up food, and fresh sushi. Everything experience. You pick your food area for any costumer. They also Bypassed time and time again, against a wall along with almost is always at top quality the entire topping, bases and sauces, and then offer many discounts including a free hidden by everyday franchises fresh sushi then a frozen yogurt day. The desserts are baked daily a Mongolian chef takes it and grills it meal on your birthday if you have such as McDonald’s and Native machine. However, Yummy Grill in a variety of choices along with right before you eyes in a fast paced, two other people tagging along. New Yorker; Yummy Grill Buffet Buffet gives Chinese buffets a whole self serve ice cream for the public’s flashy way. Yummy Grill Buffet was an has gone virtually unnoticed after new meaning. enjoyment. Many buffet lovers have been excellent dining experience that being surrounded by other more This dinning experience is more More than just a buffet line, there settling for sub par food lately, but will have you going back for more prominent restaurants. than satisfactory; all the dishes are also many other aspects to this instead of settling for less, they at more than reasonable prices. No When you think of a Chinese contain both Americanized favorites quaint little restaurant. should settle for top quality cuisine more settling for fast food, settle for and fresh cuisine from Asia. There They also have a Mongolian and a fun experience. Yummy Grill Yummy. Sculpture Pumas brighten up school By Alli Klassen the battle to Basha. Building the pumas is a part the precedent As of this year, the new of a tradition, rather than just any “Building the pumas is now a part sculpture teacher opted out of the regular activity. This project is of the Perry High School tradition competition. widely appreciated by teachers and even though they take a long time The Pumas are awarded into students alike. to construct, and take over my room three categories: Best Construction, Long after this project has been every year...I will happily continue Most Creative, Best Overall. completed the Pumas are still being teaching the project,” said Sculpture The judges for this are Mrs. displayed throughout campus for teacher Sharon Biemond. Tompkins and Mrs. DeCristafaro. all to witness. We have all seen the Pumas They are both teachers in the Fine “I am really proud of the students around school and all the sorts of Arts department. From that point, work,” said Biemond, “this year the themed Pumas. The Puma Project they pick the winners. Star Wars Pumas are receiving a lot started as a competition between “Every year, we strive to make the of attention. I have always wanted Basha and Perry. Pumas better than the last years,” to have a class do theme pumas, The project has now turned into said Biemond. “The Pumas are also and this year one class like the idea photo by Sharon Biemond a tradition at Perry High School. For a great show of school spirit and and went with it. They turned out Students (from right), Amber Howarth, Jacob Siwek, John Ajluni, Dylan Coway, and Nick Lara pose with their “King Tut” puma. the past three years, Perry has won pride.” great!” arts & entertainment || the precedent || february 2012 9 Guitar player Josiah James gives back through music By Baily Byers northern California. with his family and friends. “But after praying about it, release show. the precedent After high school, he “  e break was a resting and trusting God to provide Along with his Christian Josiah James picked up realized he could not juggle period to grow closer to my the funds (which I was background, Josiah was his fi rst guitar when he was in the heavy load of college, friends, family, church, and nowhere near having), I went also an advocate for helping junior high, he felt strongly touring, writing and recording to see what God had for me, into the studio with Colby organizations such as the that it was a ministry God music. whether music related or Wedgeworth,  e Maine, Anti- Human Traffi cking wanted him to pursue, since As a result he put college not." James said. Ten After Two, and Lybecker organizations. In this past his humble beginning, he plans on hold and released A short time later, in Sept. to record a 2nd full length year he has been striving has played over 500 shows his fi rst full length CD, “ e 2011, he felt the urge to begin CD” to raise money for this nationwide with various Morning Light”, and began recording a new album.  e new CD, “All foundation. Today, he is bands. touring full time. “I felt God putting very Forgotten  ings” just had its currently donating all the Being home schooled Two more E.P. releases, strongly on my heart to debut Jan. 2006, with bands proceeds he makes on iTunes gave him the time to write, and hundreds of concerts record a new CD that I wasn’t  e Reel, Lybecker, and selling his music, and giving record demos and perform at later, Josiah James took a planning on recording till Shipwreck Pedro who were it to the National Human Album: churches and venues all across break from touring to reunite summer 2012” James stated also performing at the CD Traffi cking Fund. Death Grips - Exmilitary

By Thomas Pipia the precedent Nathan Henderson: Rapping up his life ost albums attempt to caress and sway to get out and be in my own but it also helped raise his the listener into PHS student and little world.” Mloving it on fi rst listen. confi dence. For him to Henderson started writing know that people have heard However, in the case of freestyle rapper his own music at the tender and liked his music, when ““Exmilitary,” I felt tied up, age of four. his name is not one such slapped around, and forced releases album, “I was watching a show on as Drake or Lil’ Wayne, is into submission. MTV with my brother and I something that will always Death Grips is a hip-hop “True Identity” saw (rapper and actor) Bow stick inside his head. collective that takes a wildly Wow singing,” Henderson Henderson will not stop aggressive and experimental By Travis Klein claims. there, though. approach to their music. the precedent It was at that moment “I’m going to try to get Released in early 2011, that the little kid, who, more shows within the next their mix tape was largely It is unreal to think stereotypically, should worry year and then send out overshadowed by the passing that amongst the drama about nothing else than demos to some promoters,” fad of Odd Future, obscuring throughout PHS’s hallways, what time cartoons came on, he states. this remarkable release. there is a future rap-artist in hopped off the couch and Sure, this way of life With “Exmilitary” as their the making, “ is new life is jumped on the computer to has taken a bit of a toll on debut, the group comes off as what I’m trying to establish, write his fi rst song. Sure, he him when it comes to his incredibly unique, and a force want to become great has was a little boy who is not schoolwork, but nothing to be reckoned with, even become my worst habit.” expected to come out with in life ever comes easy. though they are relatively  ese words come off of a double platinum selling “Sometimes I’ll stop being faceless.  e only notable junior Nathan Henderson’s album by the time he was photo by Bonarden Clark focused,” Henderson implies, member of the collective is fi rst mix-tape called “True fi ve, but he was a kid who had Above Nathan Henderson shows off his rap skills at Perry Idol. “but it doesn’t make a huge Zach Hill, an immensely Identity”.  e freedom to a dream that maybe one day diff erence. I still manage to popular math rock drummer be able to say these kinds he could be just like the kid had realized that I wasn’t that his songs that would later be have decent grades.” who composed the beats for of words are just part of the he saw on his own television good yet.” on his fi rst mix-tape “True Maybe he is not going the album. reason as to why making his (Bow Wow). But who ever said all Identity”. to be the next Bow-Wow, Coming from such an own music intrigues him. “I  ings did get a bit things come to an end?  e tape was a success, but that will not stop him intense and rhythmically love the freedom,” Henderson bumpy after that though. Earlier this year, as 25 copies were sold. Not from following his dream of complex background, Hill’s states, “being able to say what “I took a break when I was Henderson spent many long only did this help bring in becoming the best rap-artist beats on the record make for you want. It’s a way for me eight,” Henderson implies, “I and grueling hours recording the money for the junior, that he can possibly be. an absolutely wild ride.  ese are not your typical drum and bass beats commonly used in mainstream hip hop, instead utilizing vocal samples, guitar riff s, and even hardcore punk Get social Latest Coldplay album shows songs to back the rapping.  e infl uence on with “Exmilitary” is apparent. British band’s diversity Elements from the most The Precedent underground hip-hop show By Victoria Lovvorn and “Every Teardrop is a anthem-y track with many the precedent up amongst the obvious cues Waterfall” are also included. catchy riff s and enchanting from noise, industrial, and  e band’s album is a vocals. from noise, industrial, and  e British band Coldplay avant-garde music. mixture of ballads, pop, and ‘Princess of China’ sounds Make no mistake; the released their fi fth album in dance tracks. All around a like something you would three years; Mylo Xyloto in rapping on “Exmilitary” is raw. great CD to make sure to hear on a top 40 radio  e main rapper, MC Ride Oct. of 2011 which has earned purchase at some point. It station along with featuring  e main rapper, MC Ride them nominations in the spends an enormous amount has a song for every one and the international pop star, of time literally yelling on 2012 BRIT awards as “Best even goes against “the man”. Rihanna. Although many of time literally yelling on British Album” and “Best the record. Needless to say,  e band has stated that the critics believe she is featured the album is raunchy and not British Group.”  ey are up theme for Mylo Xyloto is to help bring attention to the the album is raunchy and not against artists such as Adele, for the faint of heart.  ere is inspired by 70’s New York album.  e song, like many one song on the mix tape that One Direction, Ed Sheeran graffi ti and the White Rose (a radio hits is about loss. one song on the mix tape that and Jessie J.  ey will also be sounds a little more tame, Nazi-resistance movement). Followed by “Princess of where a diff erent rapper picks preforming with Rihanna at  e whole album is also said China” is “Up in Flames”, where a diff erent rapper picks the 2012 Grammys on Feb. up the microphone and belts to be a love story between a slower song about how out a very smooth song called 12. the two characters, Mylo and devastating it feels to break out a very smooth song called It is a 14 track album “Culture Shock” is more Xyloto. off a relationship. somber than the other tunes, featuring Rihanna, as well Coldplay’s fi rst single, as their singles, “Paradise” and is paired with a beat that “Paradise” is a great is downright haunting. Perhaps one of the best Little Ralphy aspects of the album is the jazzy approach the collective by Colette Zaborniak takes to their song structure. Instances of odd time Recycle signatures, call and response, and even syncopation litter all 13 of the tracks.  e wildly narcotic beats and unexpected changes in the sound on songs like “Spread Eagle Cross the Block” and “Guillotine” are prime examples.  e bottom line is that “Exmilitary” is not for everyone. Fans of aggressive and experimental music may fi nd a home here. Others who took interest in the off beat your Precedent sound of Gorillaz may also latch onto the sound of Death Grips. 10 sports || the precedent || february 2012 Basketball Our Take For those not familiar with Joe Paterno his passing may have Squad proves its worth against powerhouses been written off as the ending to a highly p u b l i c i z e d DREW By Drew Crawford said, crediting the victory to the rest the precedent scandal, but CRAWFORD of his team. for the Nittany the precedent The lights of the gymnasium at Of course, this game play by Lions football Perry serve as a harbinger of what Richardson translated from vigorous team and the the basketball squad packs in the off court work. He had to put the rest of the movements of their Nikes and ball in the middle of the rim many public it meant wrists. times previous to this big game to something far It is fair to say if asked no one ensure success in a critical moment. greater. would have thought that this year’s “I wake up early in the morning P a t e r n o , team would have outperformed the before school sometimes and take n i c k n a m e d one from the previous season, but 300 shots with my dad,” Richardson JoePa by his players, died as they have done that and far more. pointed out, emphasizing the the winningest coach in college The miraculous thing about this feat importance of being prepared. football history with a staggering is that it is that it is all based off an The win over Hamilton was a total of 409 wins over 46 seasons underrated concept: teamwork. thriller victory, and ultimately it was as Penn State’s head coach. This year’s band of ballers has the team’s belief in themselves that After being fired in wake of done what is necessary to remain pulled them through. the Sandusky scandal Paterno close-knit. Take the Howard brothers “That was a very good team win. retired to his home already worn for example. With the expectation We worked very hard on defense down in both body and spirit at of their sibling at hand they use this and we were all on the same page,” the age of 85. momentum on a cut to the basket or Howard said. “We wanted that win On Jan. 22 he passed away a drive up the court. really bad and it showed.” leaving behind a legacy that “My brother and I have such a After the Hamilton game the has become a standard on the good connection off of the court, squad went on to have mixed Nittany Lion’s field, as well as a and we know each other so well that results. tarnished reputation. we just feed off of each other,” Jordan They dismantled Chandler for a The Sandusky scandal was Howard remarked. “We know each second time, picked apart Cibola, certainly not a light subject, other’s moves and it really helps us and held off Skyline. and is dissapointing to think on the court.” After this the team would not that the game of football can The brothers are not alone in be as fortunate, losing three straight have something of that nature this approach though. The night games, including a rematch against going on inside of it untold or of Jan. 19 a skeptical crowd of Hamilton that did not end as unspoken to authorities. supporters filled the maroon, blue, planned. Whenever something of this and white bleachers watching as the The power points surrendered nature happens it has the ability to Pumas took on the rival Hamilton from these losses ensured that the generate disheartening reactions Huskies. team would not go to sectionals, but from the public. Despite what How could they escape the grasp they are not necessarily considering has happened though, Paterno’s of the Huskies No. 21, a lanky 6’11 that a bad thing. accomplishments as a coach 235 pound forward? “We find this a blessing. We just should not be played down. A This did not pose a threat to Ryan know that if we work hard, and have legacy still lays in his wake and Richardson who had the Midas hard practices then we can get ready it would be wise if another coach touch whenever his hands graced for the state tournament. It’s not followed it. the basketball. particularly a bad thing,” Howard After Hamilton’s 25-26 lead at said relating that this would give half and a monster dunk by Eric them more time to prepare for the Jacobsen, Ryan Richardson came in state tournament. and made sure the rest of the game At press time it was not known would not go this way. whether the squad would qualify photo by Josh Leon He hit five three-pointers, three for state, but the team continues Rising above the heat of the moment senior Lucas O’brien completes a hook shot against of them in consecutive possessions to practice in hopes that the season Trevor Browne. The squad finished the regular season with a record of 19-8. to ensure the edge on Hamilton with they put together will remain alive. a snatch-away victory of 56-54. Regardless of whether it does or Wrestling sectional “My teammates were willing to not, it is a valid point to make that give me the ball at that moment the squad used all of the tools and results because I was on fire. They made it time available to them this season Offense takes flight happen,” small forward Richardson for their best showing. By Jeniffer Strand Nathan Bosley- 1st special for the precedent

The Perry Puma varsity basketball Arch Ratliff- 3rd team finished the season with an Wrestlers still standing strong excellent record of 19-8. Averaging 5.7 assists per game, After a season marred by injuries, the wrestling team went on to qualify senior Desmond Howard led the Logan Arredondo- 5th Pumas in assists helping the team to five athletes for state after an impressive showing at sectionals average 14.8 assists per game on the season. By Austin Williams squad hit an all-time low turned for this. In sectionals senior Nathan Michael Bartkus- 4th Having the ability to distribute the precedent the worst having only two wins and Bosley placed first in addition to the ball well throughout the games Puma wrestlers had their last five losses. fourth by juniors Arch Ratliffe, led to many other successes on the meet of the regular season on After these setbacks many teams Daniel Serrano, and senior Michael court. Wed Jan. 25 for a disappointing would most likely resort to excuses Bartkus. Daniel Serrano- 4th With 3-point field goal percentage loss against the Westwood High in an effort to explain these loses. Sophomore Logan Arredondo and overall Field goal percentage at Warriors. Seven prime wrestlers The Pumas would have no part in took fifth place. 38 and 45, respectively, the Pumas were injured, crippling the varsity were able to take down the opposing team and leaving the score 30-35 Sp o r t s Br i e f s teams through a balanced offensive Westwood Super Bowl XVI was one to attack. Although the junior varsity remember, if you were a fan of the Helping the team to their solid wrestled in varsity’s place, New York Giants. For the New overall 3-point FG% was sophomore Westwood’s varsity ultimately took England Patriots, it was another Ryan Richardson, who led the team, the victory with more pins. loss in the greatest American sports averaging 49% 3-point field goal Despite the end of the season event to the same team from just percentage. being marred by injuries Perry beat four years ago. Also contributing to the Puma all of the other high schools in the Patriot fans can do nothing but offense were the teams two leading Chandler Unified School District. hang their heads and think about scorers, senior Lucas O’Brien and Perry participated in Division 2 what could have been. sophomore Jordan Howard. last year, while this year they moved On the flip side, the Giants have O’Brien, who averaged 15.1 ppg, up to the toughest section, Division won their second Super bowl in and Jordan Howard, who averaged 1. under five years as the underdog. 13.6 ppg, gave the team an offensive Head Coach Darren Johnson Giants fans are already looking for boost, helping the Pumas towards said, “Division 2 had weak teams, a repeat for next year. If they happen their season average of 57.3 ppg. and each team is tough in Division to draw the men in red white and O’Brien also led the team 1,” commenting on the increased blue again, their chances are looking in overall field goal percentage, intensity. pretty good considering they seem shooting 57% from the field, and “Competition was a lot tougher to have the Patriots number after led the team in rebounding, pulling this year than last,” senior Nick Cox beating them in two super bowls down 7.6 rpg on average. said with a similar opinion and also in week nine of the regular The hard-working effort and The Pumas competed in the Red season. unselfish teamwork exhibited by Mountain Wrestling Invitational on photo by Travis Klein this year’s varsity basketball team is Jan. 20-21. Michael Bartkus patiently holds his opponent in a headlock as the referee By Travis Klein something to be proud of. After wrestling seven teams the looks for the pin. Bartkus went on to place fourth in sectionals. sports || the precedent || february 2012 11 Baseball Hilstrom looks to build on ‘11 campaign

By Austin Williams Head Coach Shane Hillstrom the precedent exclaimed, “I’m excited for this The long wait for the spring-time upcoming season, I feel good!” baseball season is now over. Some games will be played against Try-outs for baseball were held schools back-to-back, making this on the week of Mon. Feb. 6- Fri. season an interesting one to come. Feb. 10. Two Tournaments will Their first back-to-back match-up be held this season in which the will be against Mesquite High pumas will participate. Varsity will School on Mon. Mar. 5- and at be participating in the Harold Bull Mesquite on Tues. Mar. 6. Classic Tournament held at MHS A total loss of 12 varsity players on Feb. 23-25 and Mar. 3. Another from last year’s team have graduated, tournament, the Highland Triple including 6 starters, the number Play, will be housed at Highland one starting pitcher, the number High School on Mar. 12-15. 3 starting pitcher, and the team’s The Pumas are having their first main closer. Only two starters are regular season game at home against returning from last years team, Campo Verde High School on Mar. catcher Collin Braithwaite, and 1. second base-man Max Arredondo. Some key match-ups for the Having such a staggering loss to the Pumas this year will be against varsity team may hinder some, but Basha High School, Chandler High not Hillstrom. School, and Hamilton High School, “We’re coming back with six each a school in Chandler District. Seniors who have been around There will be two games against each awhile,” Hillstrom said about the Chandler School. readiness of the team. “I don’t feel Preparations for this upcoming like the cover is totally bare” season are being made for another Last season the pumas were state fantastic year for the best varsity runners-up, now everyone is having Precedent file photo team Perry has to offer. high expectations and hoping for Senior Catcher Collin Braithwaite shifts his weight to his back foot as he gets ready to swing in last years playoff game against Boulder Excitement for this season has the State Championship this year. Creek. High goals are the mark placed on the Pumas who are last years state runner-ups in state after losing to Chaparral in the champion- been electrifying and now it is higher It is with high expectations that ship game. than ever. the Pumas earn this trophy. Softball ASU Commit plays crucial role By Kaleigh of 24-10 and pushes the ladies college years. McCormick making it to East to fight and do Their first game the precedent Valley Region, their best. With is slated against Pumas With warm there is no doubt In spite of Saguaro on Feb. thoughts of the that the team this high expectations 23. uprising air of season will be just from the results of This wrap of spring , and being as successful this last season, Senior talent that has able to be outside year. Mandi Grebe the spirit and Looking again its times for With 15 years takes the helm of determination to a new season. of experience the ball club this win, could lead New players coach, Kevin year. the team to more and a new Chapin hopes to “She goes above victories this beginning for lead his team to and beyond what upcoming season. the softball team another impressive others do to work With all of this Forward are here at Perry. season. on her game” in mind it would Finishing their With his college Chapin states, as be a good guess to last season with level expectations Grebe signed with execpt much from Spring sports preview an overall record for this team, it ASU to play in her this softball squad. The Mandi Grebe File - Recently signed with Arizona State Baseball Softball Track Volleyball Tennis University - Last year’s East Valley Sky Region player of the year

Track stacked with diverse talent; volleyball uses senior leadership

By Mitchel Albrecht Two essential members opinion on the upcoming tournament. the precedent of the team, sprinter Dalton season junior 300m hurdler Combining the strong Bluebaugh and hurdler Craig Mahaffy stated, “We’re leadership of new head coach, In order to have a Kaleb Garcia, were both state going to do really well this Brian Pomerantz and 6’4” 175 successful track team, you qualifiers as juniors and are year, I can feel it. We have a pound senior Ryan Moore, must have a diverse range hoping to have even more lot of returning varsity guys, the team has the leadership it of sprinters, long distance productive seasons this year. Perry is up and coming, and needs to succeed. runners, hurdlers, throwers, On the girl’s team, we have the momentum.” “You have to be a leader and jumpers. sprinters Justice Cox, Kaylie As long as everyone through every play. When This is what makes the Burke, and Alyssa Yanish, steps up and performs up you act like a leader, they pay Perry High School track team will lead the girls in the short to expectations the Pumas attention to that”, Moore so unique. With a variety of events while veteran long should live up to and extend stated when asked about his talent and a few returning distance runner, Taylor de the mark that they set last role on the team. varsity athletes, the season Laveaga claims her spot once season. Junior Alex Berghorst holds the potential to be again as the top Perry girl’s provides strength from the photo by Travis Klein promising. long distance runner. Volleyball Junior Alyssa Yanish practices her technique for pole vaulting with an right side and Moore provides emphasis on form during track practice. Senior sprinter Josh Pole vaulter Jessica athleticism at the outside Ulhorn and junior jumper Bostaph, who holds the Perry hitter position. tested against division one stepping up of underclassman Reggie Blader will hope girls record for pole vault, With five seasoned varsity Regardless of the amount powerhouses Hamilton and to seal the deal for the Pumas to set precedents after returns for another year and a players returning the Pumas of talent on the team, the Highland. to find their way back to strong respective junior and chance to defend her record. looked more poised then ever Pumas will not have an It will take some strong the playoffs after a one year sophomore campaigns. When asked about his to make a run to the state easy road as they will be upperclassman play and the absence. 12 sports || the precedent || february 2012 Despite not making playoffs many winter sports claim successful season Girl’s Basketball season and it really showed. learned to heart as a growing Perry was confident about the players made every second squad is stacked with The girl’s last four games experience. last two games. “I didn’t see count. “The senior night game returning players. Seniors You could say it was a were against Basha, Gilbert, “As a team, we improved any big surprises in our future, was bitter sweet. My family Xavier Ortiz and Sean Kang somewhat regrettable season Mesquite and Mountain working well together,” team after we took out Basha.” was there to support me and lead the pack, followed by for the ladies in navy and Pointe High schools. The forward Ashley Dahl said Stated Mitch Albrecht. it’s always nice playing for juniors Nick Copic, Danny cardinal as they finished the Pumas won against Basha “We beat Hamilton and that’s The team’s next match them, but then again it was Wahlin and Garrett SciaScia. season with 10 wins and 11 3-2, and Gilbert 3-1, and really good.” was against Mesquite who my last high school game.” ”I have been playing for losses. then went on to lose against As DeGrow gets ready they had already beaten once. said Herrera. Perry won their two years; returning feels Coming into the season, Mesquite 2-0, and Mountain for the next year he sets But as things turned out, senior game with a score of good, especially after a long the ladies looked to improve Pointe 2-1. his expectations just a little the season was indeed full of 4-2, making their last match season off.” junior Garrett from their mark of 13 wins Despite a disappointing higher, surprises. Mesquite played a a memorable one. SciaScia says. and 14 losses from the ending to the season, Head “Any coach who says good game along with Perry With his strong backhand previous season. Coach Garald DeGrow they did everything right but in the end the Wild Cats Tennis and his accurate shot Unfortunately that was remained extremely proud of throughout the season is stood victorious, beating placement, SciaScia proves not the case this season as his team, especially in light of either lying, or just not Perry 3-2 and knocking them Coming off of a 10-4 that he is a player that must they were never able to regain their age. looking hard enough. We will out of the playoffs. record from the previous year, be taken seriously. their composure after a loss. The girl’s varsity team this be looking at learning from “We had a lot of pressure head tennis coach Angela With her lineup full of top The team did see glimpses year included nine freshmen, the mistakes that were made on us going into the game Gardner and her boys tennis experienced players, who are of what next year may entail making it Perry’s youngest as a team going into the future because of the power squad are ready to set a poised and ready for action, as they won in a blowout soccer team ever. and seeing that they are fixed rankings.” Alex Herrera said. precedent of winning seasons. Gardner stands a good chance against Skyline, 81-42. “Having a young team for next season.” “Coach had told us to play This being Gardner’s second in this year’s conference. Look for the ladies to end up 17th in state isn’t This season will serve every game as if it we were year of coaching, she returns This year will be a make improvements coming bad at all,” DeGrow said as a foundation for high already in playoffs.” as a veteran with a year of challenge; with the Pumas into their return next season. admonishing his young talent expectations of this soccer Although Perry was head coaching experience facing Chandler, Hamilton, under her belt. Girl’s Soccer on a positive note. Although team in future years. technically “out” they still Basha, and Marcos de Niza. the girls missed making the had one more hurrah. The “I feel that a major strength The Girls Varsity Soccer play-offs by one spot they Boy’s Soccer “Senior night” game against of ours is the depth in our Travis Klein, Joelle team gave it their all this lineup.” Gardner states. Landry, Brennen Hennings are taking the lessons they The 2011-2012 soccer Mountain Point was the last game in many of their high Heading into the and Kwaku Asare season has officially come upcoming season, Gardner’s contributed to this report to an end; with boy’s varsity school careers and the senior finishing 8-4. The sailing was smooth leading into their 9th game against Skyline, which the squad dominated in, winning with a score of 5-2 and placing them just three games away from the playoffs. Their 10th game was a rematch against Basha – who beat them 1-0 in the opening season game. This time however, Perry stepped up and after a too close for comfort match, they photo by Travis Klein came out on top by one goal. Junior Brandon Olson gets set to deliver a serve at tennis practice. After the victory at Basha,