JHS Puts on Its Very First Play Kassen & Tautphaeus Earn Top Scouting Honors As Eagle Scouts

May 2016 Volume 4, Issue 4 Jefferson High School THE In this issue: • Oh the places they’ll go...check out the Class of 2016’s plans after high school. • Tips to avoid being that creepy alumni. • JHS girls track team wins their first ever BEACON Conference Championship. Seniors soar to new heights JHS puts on its very first play Kassen & Tautphaeus earn top Scouting honors as Eagle Scouts

Senior Colton Kassen is awarded his Eagle Scout honor from his grandfather, Ray Kassen, at a ceremony held at Jefferson High School on March 6.

by Lindsay Recar Staff Writer

When thinking of Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts, the image that Putting on your first play with a small cast, limited budget and no theater can be a daunting task, but the comes to mind is usually of a child selling cookies or learn- Page to Stage Players successfully did just that. The performance consisted of three short vignettes cen- ing to tie knots. However, some have chosen to go above tered around the theme of technology and featured minimal costuming and sets. Instead, it relied on strong and beyond, sticking with the program throughout their ad- acting. The Friday night performance sold out and received outstanding reviews from students, staff and olescence. This can be said for Seniors Colton Kassen and community members. The Page to Stage Players are under the direction of Ms. Cassie Peterein and Ms. Michael Tautphaeus, who recently achieved the highest and Tessa Peterein. See complete story on page 3. most prestigious rank in Boy Scouts: Eagle Scout. Both Kassen and Tautphaeus have been a part of Troop 405 since first grade. Kassen first joined “because of friends,” mentioning several students who have gone to Emptying our pockets, filling our closets Jefferson R-VII, including Michael Tautphaus, Hunter Dar- by Jordan Shockley and Ellie Steller nell, and Jacob Schweiss. Despite staying a Scout for such a long time, Kassen never considered quitting at any point. “It and warming our hearts Staff Writers looks good on my job resume,” said Kassen, “and it was fun to do.” In fact, in a recent job interview, Kassen said it was A hidden expense in the pockets of many high school students (and the first thing the interviewer asked him about. Kassen said parents) is the school t-shirts they purchase for clubs, events, activities he received a lot of encouragement from his grandparents. and sports. Ranging from football camp to National Honor Society, His grandfather earned his Eagle Scout rank in 1954 and was JHS gear fills up the closets of over 50 percent of students. The t-shirts proud to participate in Kassen’s ceremony. His cousins and students buy express who they are and what they love. The average brother are also active in Boy Scouts. Tautphaeus had similar jock’s closet will be overflowing with team gear they have bought over motivations and said his dad encouraged him to continue. the years. Those students that bleed blue and white tend to have Home- Both Kassen and Tautphaeus say their best memories coming, Student Council, pink week, and class shirts cluttering their come from many camping trips with their friends. “My favor- rooms. ite trip was going to New Mexico for a two-week hike,” said When surveyed, 60 percent of JHS students said that they buy Kassen. Tautphaeus also fondly remembers the 70-mile hike three or more shirts a year, while only 9 percent do not buy any. Aver- through the mountains their freshman year. aging $15 a shirt, these expenses add up as quickly as students’ closets Kassen has done plenty of community work as well. fill up. During R-VII’s many Veterans’ Day assemblies, Kassen par- Junior Morgan Govro says she probably has 15-20 shirts from ticipated in the Color Guard, setting up the national and state high school. “I order them all the time. I like to have t-shirts because I flags, as well as leading the other Scouts. can wear them anytime.” To achieve the rank of Eagle Scouts, members must What to do with all these shirts after graduations? There is a earn over 20 Eagle-required merit badges and submit a pro- creative solution to give them a different practical use. Mrs. Theresa posal for their final project. After the proposal is approved, Williams, high school lunch lady, has been taking old school t-shirts and Scouts must fund and complete a project that will benefit repurposing them into quilts. Williams was first introduced to the idea their community. The work and time must be meticulously when her daughter’s college roommate showed her a t-shirt quilt she logged and documented. This entire process begins in 5th had previously made. The roommate explained to Williams how simple grade and must be completed before the age of 18. Kassen’s it was, so Williams decided to attempt the project. “I’m kind of crafty,” project involved making the picnic tables that sit just outside said Williams. The first quilt she made was of all of her daughter’s ex- of the high school cafeteria. Because of the unusual shape, tracurricular shirts. The quilt was so big it fit a king size bed! they posed more of a challenge to build than a standard pic- Altogether, Williams has made four t-shirt quilts. In order to nic table. Kassen felt there was a need for the benches. “Last make a nice-sized quilt, Williams needs a substantial collection of shirts. year, kids would eat outside and sit on the concrete.” “A good body size is twenty-five to thirty shirts,” said Williams. She Tautphaeus chose to fix up the playground at the Con- charges $125 for each standard size quilt. In all her free time, each quilt servation Club. He spent over 40 hours repainting the fence, takes Williams anywhere from ten days to two weeks. scraping rust, weeding and repairing the swingset. According to Williams, kids hold on to their shirts because it Once reaching Eagle Scout, Scouts still have the op- is a cool way to reminisce. “The shirts bring back fond memories and Pictured above is a quilt Mrs. Williams made for her daughter. It is experiences,” said Williams. Rather than letting school t-shirts collect made exclusively from Student Council shirts. Below is a collec- portunity to participate. “I’ll still help out in places when I tion of the many shirts that a JHS student might have accumulated can,” said Kassen, “but I won’t be as involved as I used to dust in closets or drawers, they can be repurposed into a practical quilts throughout their high school years. be.” that allows one to reminisce high school while staying warm. [email protected] May 2016 2 News Don’t forget to Meet the candidates add community A closer look at who’s in the running to be the next POTUS service to your Complied by Campbelll Ebersoldt Co-News Editor Republican Candidates resume

The 2016 Presidential election features a variety of views and opin- Senator Ted Cruz by Dean Carter ions, ranging from building a wall along the Mexican border to free Staff Writer tuition for anyone attending public universities and colleges. Before Climate Change: “There has not been a the final tally comes in for each party’s presidential nomination, meaningful warning in weather patterns for Volunteering is a system of service that many here is your chance to see all of the candidates who are in the run- years.” perceive as something only nice people do when ning and where they stand in the delegate count (as of 5/1/16). it is, in fact, a critical service that has an enormous ISIS: “President Obama has a photo-op policy- The Democratic nominee will need to win 2,383 delegates for nom- impact on the health and well-being of commu- drop a bomb here, a missile there. The US nities worldwide. But many students may not be ination, and the Republican nominee will need to win 1,237 dele- needs a president who will do what’s needed to keep the country aware of the enormous advantage community gates for nomination. safe.” service gives them over their peers when trying to get into college and get scholarships. Community Fun Fact: Cruz enjoys playing games on his iPhone. service can add to one’s resume, filling in any of Democratic Candidates the blank spots one might have, making a student Current Delegate Count: 562 more appealing to employers and colleges. Former Secretary of State Mrs. Debra Runzi, guidance counselor, Hillary Clinton added, “Volunteering and community service Governor John Kasich are as important as taking rigorous courses and participating in school activities while in high Climate Change: “Climate change is a huge Climate Change: “I think it’s real, it’s here, but school.” Colleges don’t just look at the courses problem.” Clinton supports and plans to let’s not overreact with coal regulations.” students are involved in, but also how involved further on the actions President Obama has they are in their community,” said Runzi. “Service implemented to combat climate change. Immigration: “Shipping illegal immigrants is what scholarship committees look for and what back to Mexico is a ‘silly idea.’” some colleges and universities consider when ISIS: Clinton says that she “would arm Syrian rebels and would making admission decisions.” never have sent ground troops to the Middle East.” Fun Fact: Kasich is friends with Bono. Volunteering has other great benefits. With each volunteer activity or program comes training Fun Fact: Clinton used to have a job sliming fish in Alaska. Current Delegate Count: 153 and gaining new skills. These skills may seem ba- sic or trivial at the time of training, but may pro- Current Delegate Count: 2,156 vide building blocks for future success. Students can even earn credits through volunteer work. Many volunteer opportunities and organizations Senator Bernie Sanders Donald Trump can translate to high school or college credits. Lastly, it shows responsibility. Just like going to Health Care: Senator Sanders thinks that Immigration: Would build a wall along the a job, committing to a volunteer position shows Obamacare does not go far enough. American-Mexican border and ban Muslims responsibility and makes you seem more reliable. from entering the US. There are many different ways to get in- volved in the community. Runzi suggested revert- Education: Sanders wants to implement a ing back to different programs students partici- plan for free tuition at public colleges and Trade: “The Trans-Pacific Trade Partnership ‘stinks’ and China is ‘killing us in trade.’” pated in as children, such as Scouts, Little League, universities. or YMCA programs. “You could also ask your high school coaches if your teams can take on a Fun Fact: Last year, Sanders’ brother Larry ran for a seat in the Fun Fact: Trump has been the star of The Celebrity Apprentice for 8 years and made a cameo in Home Alone 2. group volunteer project to do over the summer,” United Kingdom’s parliament. said Runzi. Mercy Jefferson is also offering a Ju- Current Delegate Count: 992 nior Mentor volunteer program. Current Delegate Count: 1,357 For inquiries about volunteering opportu- nities, see Mrs. Runzi in the counseling center.

Go Blue Jays!

And Cheer Bows! The Beacon May 2016 News 3 Play receives rave reviews 1 2 5

1. Junior Justin Huffman’s character, Micah, is surrounded by manipulative social media who tries to lure him away from the task of completing his English paper over The Great Gatsby. 2. The Jefferson Page to Stage Players pose for a picture during rehearsal. 3. Sophomore Ana 3 4 Green 4. Sophomores Haylee Gross, Ana Green, and Samantha Anderson 5. Sophomore Evan Dierker angrily expresses the stress that school creates for him, accusing teachers of conspiring to make him miserable.

Pictures courtesy of Ms. Cassie Peterein

by Ellie Steller with characters, dialogue, and plot rather than notes, rhythms, and Co-editor-in-chief tones. As everything built up, it did so in a quite unifying manner. While the actors had their individual monologues, their group dy- What did you think of the play? On March 18 and 19 Jefferson High School’s Page to Stage players namic was magnificent with speeches that sprung off and over- put on their first drama performance at Good News Communi- lapped one another. ty Church. With minimal scenes, costumes, and props, each play The third and final play of the evening was “The In- relied heavily on dialogue and the acting of the cast. The Page ternet is a Distract...OH LOOK A KITTEN!” by Ian McWethy. “It was very good, I was sur- to Stage Players performed not one, but three separate vignettes For me, this was the most entertaining play of the evening. While prised with how good it was. both nights. the main character, Micah, played by Junior Justin Huffman, is They knew their lines well.” The first play, “ths phne 2.0: the next generation,” was trying to finish up a paper onThe Great Gatsby, he gets sucked into –Freshman Steven Needy a vignette written by Lindsay Price. It consisted of a collection the black hole that is technology. In this play, the Page to Stage of brief scenes that centered around the theme of technology Players personified media in a way that was terrifyingly brilliant and communication and contained a combination of monologues and made for an interesting new perspective. It was easy to relate and dramatic moments. Four of the seven actors in this play had to the distracted main character. When trying to accomplish tasks monologues that dealt with specific things they disliked about and get work done, being distracted by the Internet is effortless. It “They picked really good char- technology: over-the-top phones that can do too many things, is a domino effect, meaning one thing leads to another. Suddenly, acters for ‘Stressed,’ Evan was texts that completely throw out the English language, emails that you realized that you have veered so far off course that it takes a perfect.” do not follow proper etiquette, and tones that are hard to read lot of self-control and effort to get back where you started. through technological communication. The stereotypical behav- While all actors were outstanding, the evening’s star –Sophomore Jill Akins iors and thoughts portrayed in this play are how I imagine other was undoubtedly Sophomore Evan Dierker. His dramatic facial generations see Generations Y and Z. expressions and exuberant acting sold his performances. Energy Following the dramatic and technologically-equipped oozed from every inch of his body, rendering the audience spell- next generation was “Stressed: A Teen Symphony” by Alan bound. From ranting about the tons of emails to the stresses of Haehnel. Four Page to Stage Players portrayed four very different school to a creepy personification of Google, Dierker singlehand- “Evan Dierker is the G.O.A.T.” characters with one thing in common: stress. As each character edly stole the show. –Sophomore Tennesse delved into the causation of their relateable stress, things escalat- Although, for most of the Page to Stage Players, it was Ervin ed quickly. In the midst of their outbursts, it was challenging to their first time performing, they did an amazing job. Every single remain calm. I found myself becoming flustered and stressed as spectator was laughing and enjoying themselves. The plays were their dialogue and stresses heightened. The subname of this play really entertaining, but they also allowed everyone to reflect on was really rather fitting. Like a symphony, it began at an andante how technology has changed, and continues to change, as well as tempo, intensely crescendoed into its climax, and followed with how technology influences our lives. a ritardando that signified the piece had come full circle—only Senior Wyatt Self impresses with an Spotlight Musician by Marissa Nahlik Senior Wyatt Self outstanding musical career Staff Writer Senior Wyatt Self is an accomplished musician and artist here at of flowers and her face was painted smooth like treebark.” Jefferson High School. He has expressed his commitment to the Being an artist in both music and art has helped him express arts and music by getting involved in art, choir, band, and Tri-M his creativity and showed him that he wants to pursue a career in music honor society. music. There was a certain moment that he realized he wanted to Self began playing the alto saxophone when he was in fifth follow his passion in music: making it to all-districts his first year of grade and worked his way up to the baritone sax beginning his choir. junior year of high school. He said, “There was an opening when In the fall, he plans on getting an Associates of Art at graduate Sahd Malik left. I like the sound of the bari-sax much Jefferson College with an emphasis in music. During college he will more, and I think it’s cool.” He had one of his most memorable sing in the concert choir and community choir. Once he gets his experiences his junior year when he went to MMEA with all of the associates, he will transfer to Webster to maintain his Bachelor’s in band members. Audio Production. Self ’s mom prompted his choir career, which begain his “Knowing I have made it this far and made this huge accom- sophomore year. One day he was singing in the car, and his moth- plishment makes me feel fulfilled.” er was listening to him and said he had a nice voice and should join choir. “It’s what I have the most fun in and perform the best in,” said Self. He is a bass singer in concert choir and in all-district What is your best musical choir he sings tenor. “Preparing to audition for all-state choir is the experience? hardest thing to do in choir,” said Self. Even though singing can sometimes be difficult, it seems to fill him with joy. “Going to MMEA my Junior year and Wyatt also enjoys art. He took Art I his sophomore year, skipped his Junior year but was back in Art II his senior year. Art earning All-District choir three years has been more prominent in his high school career because it was in a row.” a way he could express his creativity. While taking art a student can do different things like painting, drawing, or watercolor paint- What is your worst musical ing, which is Wyatt’s favorite. “Usually when I am drawing, I’m On Monday, April 25 at the band and choir concert, 24 members were nitpicky, but when I use watercolor, I don’t have as much control inducted into JHS’s first ever Tri-M Music chapter. Pictured above from experience? over it because I have to work with the water, which makes it back to front: (Back Row) Ali Batts, Claire Ackerman, Evan Dierker, challenging.” Other accomplishments in art include his mask that Megan Boulicault, Kristen Reese, Brendan Reese, Tennessee Ervin, “Preparing to audition for All-State Ridge Bickel, Jackson Henderson, Sarah Handrahan, Megan Sulli- won 1st place in the Eco Art contest. The mask had to relate to van, Frankie Paar, Samantha Cadenhead, and Wyatt Self. (Front Row) choir.” nature in some way. “Mine was my interpretation of a woodland Maddie Brown, Megan Reed, Morgan Shelledy, Kylie Binz, Josey Paar, nymph,” said Self. “The hair was long and luscious that was made Cassidy Broman, Julianne Price, Hannah Declue, Breanna Cheung and Lauren Beckham. [email protected] May 2016 4 Opinions It’s not about Squawk Loud, Squawk Proud! that money by Blain Prater JHS is a great school whether you like it or not News Editor Why do Americans spend so much? If you have any form of social media, you have seen some by Elisa Pezza sort of outlandish diss directed toward our very own Jef- Speak Staff Writer ferson High School. Anywhere from blasting administra- Out tion to calling out the various sports teams, they all share a How does JHS compare to Yes, it’s again me. I know, I know what you are thinking. common theme: JHS is awful, terrible, or unfair. your former school? “Seriously? Another boring article by an Italian about Amer- Now, when facing the reality of this heresy, this ica? I am so done!” I’m sorry to make you sick, but yes it is claim is highly inaccurate. We have all been told about how me, again, but I’m not going to tell you another story about lucky the students at Jefferson have it with our Chrome- “It is a hard question, but I feel deep down inside American Patriotism. Instead, I’m going to talk about some- books and amenities available to us. These things are abso- that it is better. There is a lot more that I can do thing that everybody is always thinking about: MONEY. lutely true. What other school gives free range to student here. A lot more opportunites. The people here At this point, prom has come and gone, and every- for their learning? We are literally handed the world’s best are A1.” body has already bought their prom dresses or suits. While and smartest teacher to ever exist in the form of a shiny --Sophomore Jace Duncan from Kansas I was asking a lot of girls in our school how much they paid grey box. Chromebooks have all but surpassed pencils and for their prom dresses, they answered, “Oh not a lot, only paper on the school supply power ranking. $200.” Maybe for American girls 200 bucks is not a lot, but Want some fun, stress-free time during the week? “There’s better learning quality. The people here for me, paying more than 100 bucks for a dress is crazy. You Hello advisory games! How many more spirit weeks can are friendlier. I get a lot more one-on-one attention. should know that my starting price for my prom dress was one school fit in before everyone starts to dress in morph It’s less boring.” $50, but unfortunately, I fell in love with a dress that cost suits and camouflage every day? The endless amount of --Freshman Abbey Bates from Sunset $72 (including taxes and with the 20% off coupon). support from the teachers and administration is unparal- But it is not only dresses and suits, you Americans leled to any other school in the area. Our sports teams re- pay a lot for everything such as grocery shopping. I will nev- ceive the best coaching from the top coaches in this area. er forget the first day I went to my first Walmart. It was 8 In summary, JHS is incomparable to other schools. “I think the staff members really care about the o’clock in the evening, and I was confused to find the gro- Some of the complainers out there may feel the need to students, and a lot of people helped me the first cery still open (in Italy the supermarkets close at 7 p.m.). I transfer, and that can happen, but what happens when an- day. This school prepares kids not only for college, went inside, and the first word to explain what I was looking other school has the same “problems?” We are set up for but for life. I think that’s really cool.” at was: HUGE. There were like 26 different kind of chips success and nothing less. If you feel otherwise, please feel - Senior Bruna Mazetto from Brazil and sodas, and you could find dresses, ipads, computers, free to explore the other options. hunting stuff, or just buy a fish or another kind of animal. Will another school present the same level of In the supermarkets of my country, you can only buy food opportunities for you? Probably not. I am not trying to and NOTHING else. Don’t get me wrong, the problem was “This school is more academically challenging, but demean the value of education from other schools, but not about how many choices you can spend your money on, it is also a lot smaller. People here are a lot nicer no school compares to JHS. Students here are given ev- but the price you pay. When I arrived at the cashier with my and easier to get along with.” erything they need in order to reach their full potential. So, host family, our grocery total was more than $300. OH MY the next time you feel the need to spread nonsense about --Junior Dylan Crump from Hillsboro GOSH. Wait a second. How many things did we buy to pay how “unfair” or “stupid” something is at school, take a so much? Usually my grocery shopping is like $30-40, which step back and open your eyes to the privileges here at JHS. I consider to be A LOT! I promised myself that the next time we would go to the grocery store I would try to buy less food. What ever happened to letters? Another thing that America has that is super ex- pensive is the cost of colleges. They cost like $20,000 to by Ellie Steller Letters have become a thing of the past, replaced with $30,000 per year, and that is only for the in-state colleges. The average tuition fee for a higher education in Italy is be- Co-Editor-in-Chief digital shadows of the once-personal messages tween $1,000 to $1,300 per year, depending on the universi- ty and course of study. Dear Millennials, deserve. You have deemed them as in- er. Those types of conversation are dull Not long ago, it was common to ferior methods of communication that and fade rather quickly. Contrastingly, But not everything is expensive in America. For glide pens across stationery to com- have no purpose. Despite the lies that conversations through letters require example, one thing that I found is very cheap here is the municate your thoughts, feelings, and technology has unknowingly implant- more thought as they do not receive gas prices. You pay like $1.59 for one gallon (4 liters), but ideas to others. Whether they were for- ed into your mind, it is crucial you immediate responses. You might ask in Europe we pay $1.86 for ONE LITER (0.25 gallon). I mal , romantic, or platonic, these arti- realize that letters are not the enemy. more thought-provoking questions or have even thought of bringing some American gas back cles of writing were elegantly composed. They will not render you a laughing tell them a long story about the past few This beautiful medium of communi- stock, be the causation of your untime- months of your life. Either way, there is with me to Italy, but I would probably have some problems cation is known as letter writing. It ly demise, or any other horrible thing more time spent considering what the with transportation on the plane. Another thing that Amer- was commonplace for people who were of the sort. In fact, letters are the com- letter will contain . ica has cheaper than my country is the price for a driver’s literate to write letters, but whatever plete opposite. Lastly, writing a letter is much license. You guys pay like $4.00 to $6.00 max. We, on the happened to the marvelous art? First of all , writing letters tends more personal than a text, email , or other hand, pay $1,000, and it is very hard to get one at that. For some unknown reason , the to be a therapeutic experience. Sitting direct message. Anyone can contact you very sight or mention of a letter pro- down and letting the pen in your hand through technology but not many peo- In Italy you have to take a lot of private lessons, and then vokes a cringe of disgust from you. You scroll across a crisp piece of paper al- ple will write you a letter. When you every time you fail the actual test, you have to repay another may think, “Why write a letter when lows stress to ebb away. The action of communicate to others through elec- $80 on top of the $1,000. I can compose an email , send a text, writing down words forces you to slow tronics, your personality is lost in the Another thing that drives me crazy it is how much or even chat via Skype or FaceTime.” down and ponder what exactly you binary code of ones and zeros. In hand not environmentally friendly you Americans are. I have seen If at some point you have had this want to tell the recipient of your letter, writing a letter, you are putting a piece thought, you have succumbed to tech- which is important in a world of in- of yourself in the letter as you write. people use 30 bags at the grocery for their acquisitions, but nology’s glittery facade. Don’t be fooled. stants and high-speed. The letter recipient can see all of your it is not only that. I am okay if you like to spend a lot of In contemporary society, technology has Secondly, writing a letter takes mistakes and incomplete thoughts, money, but please do not throw away the food, especially an iron grip on just about everything. time and effort. You can’t just write a which gives way to who you are as a in the same bin of plastic and paper. That really makes me It controls how we learn , communi- letter in thirty seconds; it deserves more person . No letter is perfect but neither cry. Next time America, please try to do not throw away cate, and even function in our day to thought and attention . When a person are people. A letter has much more sig- day lives. However, rather than resist is willing to put in the time and effort nificance than any communication via everything, and ask at me if I want your apple during lunch its alluring appeal , you have easily that it takes to write a letter, it speaks technology. instead to throw it in the trash. I LOVE FOOD, so you will embraced this technology-driven age volumes of their character. Rather than Call me old-fashioned, but I ap- make me really happy. where you feel comfortable letting elec- sending you a message, they go the ex- preciate a handwritten letter more than Returning to talk about prom, girls spend more tronics manage your life. But why, be- tra mile to handwrite you a letter. They an electronic text that took you all of than $800 for hairstylist, manicure, dress, pictures and lim- cause it is easier? Let me be the first to didn’t have to write you a letter, but ten seconds to type and send. Newer tell you, the easiest things in life are they wanted to. may be more efficient, but it doesn’t ousine. I’m going to tell you since I will only participate in not always the best things. In addition , letters are more necessarily mean it is better. one prom in my entire life, I let myself spend something Somehow in this fast-paced, thoughtful than technological com- Ad meliora, more than 50 bucks for “girls stuff.” technologically advanced world we live munication . Conversations through in , letters have acquired a terrible con- technology are usually back and forth notation that they undoubtedly do not as if you are sitting in a room togeth-

The Beacon Staff The award-winning Beacon is produced 4 Staff Writers: times per school year by the newspaper class Dean Carter Marissa Nahlik of Jefferson High School, #7 Blue Jay Way, Festus, MO 63028. The Beacon strives to Hilah Fish Jordan Shockley inform and entertain students, staff, and Sarah Handrahan Lindsay Recar community members while upholding pro- Emily Thomas Alyssa Becherer fessional standards of accuracy and fairness. Macy Hill Casey Hines Unsigned editorials represent the majority Elisa Pezza opinion of the staff, not necessarily the Editors: school or district. Signed editorials represent Blain Prater and Campbell Ebersoldt, news editors the writer’s opinion. Mackenzie Null, sports editor Allison Griffard, opinions editor The Beacon welcomes and encourages Holly Welker, features editor letters to the editors. Signed letters of 250 words or fewer should be emailed to thebea- Ellie Steller, co-editor-in-chief [email protected]. The Beacon reserves Molly Hill, co-editor-in-chief the right to edit as long as the intent remains unchanged. Christy Hueter, advisor The Beacon Opinions May 2016 5 2, 4, 6, 8, who do you appreciate? Seriously, don’t be the creepy dude by Alyssa Becherer Alumni do’s and don’ts Your parents! Staff Writer

by Hilah Fish You know that one kid who graduated two of that while IN HIGH SCHOOL? I know come. It’s sort of like a blast to the past and Staff Writer or three years ago, but still acts as if they are I have, so I would say stick to your college a chance for the graduated classes to have in high school? Yeah, you know who they drama (if there even is drama in college). a small reunion. However, the homecoming are. Well, I am here to clear the air of the Another thing that I find a bit strange is bonfire and dance are for the people who We all know of the countless times where you have had a dis- alumni do’s and don’ts. when someone who has graduated suddenly are currently in high school. There is the agreement with your parents or have been forced by them to do There are certain things that I feel are becomes best friends with all of the fresh- exception of an alumni who is dating some- something that you did not want to do. Whether it was about acceptable for alumni to partake in, but oth- men. They are only fourteen/fifteen years one who is still in high school -- of course getting a cell phone, brushing your teeth, or just saying thank er things I think to myself, “Really? Do they old while alumni are eighteen, nineteen, and it is completely okay in that scenario. How- you, we always found a reason to disagree and bicker. After final- think they are still in high school?” For ex- beyond. This is a problem. It is okay to be ever, if you are someone just lurking around ly outgrowing the tears, tantrums, and timeouts, we have learned ample, sitting in the student section at sport- nice and friendly to the freshies, but if you searching for someone still in high school to to appreciate and understand why parents do the things they do. ing events. Ummmm, hello? You already are constantly with them and doing HIGH take you to the dance then STOP that right had four years while IN HIGH SCHOOL SCHOOL things with them, then things now. You are not in high school anymore. 1. Teaching Consequences to stand there and cheer, so buddy it is time just get creepy. College, and even the work One of the biggest things that I do One of the most crucial times of childhood is being punished to pack up your pom poms and move on. force, are lovely places to meet new people. feel that alumni should do is go back to for your actions. Even though the yelling, timeouts, and washing Don’t get me wrong, it is okay for alumni to So sometimes, although it may be hard, you graduations, at least for the class that was your mouth out with soap seemed like the end of the world, they be at the games. Supporting your alma ma- just have to cut the cord from good ole’ Jef- right below theirs. Our school is small, so were a very important part of growing up. The use of disciplinary ter is something that you should do because ferson and reach out and meet some new the alumni most likely know a large majority actions helped us develop self control and taught us the differ- you should be proud of where you came people. of the people from the class below theirs ence between what is right and wrong. Discipline also taught from. After all, Jefferson is pretty fantastic! Going right along with this is danc- and owe them the respect of attending us the importance of responsibility, honesty, sharing, and rules. But sitting with the students is taking it too es. I think some people have the whole their graduation if at all possible. Jefferson far. homecoming situation a bit confused. The is where their roots are, and coming back 2. Using Good Manners Moving on, another thing that is a parade, tailgate, and football game are all a to graduation is simply paying the school “Cover your mouth!” “Take your elbows off the table!” huge no-no for alumni is getting involved in celebration of the past classes and should back for all of its hard work while they were “Make sure you say thank you!” These are just some of high school drama. Didn’t they have enough be attended by all alumni who are able to there. the few things that we are constantly told to do by our par- ents. Using good manners can have an effect on how oth- ers see you as a person. Having good manners meets social expectations and shows a sense of respect for others. By Third party is the way to go using good manners it helps others see that they are val- ued and that you have enough courtesy to express them. A reliance on a two-party system limits our by Dean Carter country’s growth 3. Trying New Things Staff Writer Going out on a limb to try something new takes confidence. Showing yourself that you have what it takes will only make you feel better about yourself. By forcing you to try new things, “There is nothing which I dread so much comes successful enough in a campaign, it Republican party. Lastly, every aspect that your parents helped you build confidence in yourself, come out as a division of the republic into two great practically guarantees victory for the candi- encourages the American two-party system of your comfort zone, and discover your own likes and dislikes. parties, each arranged under its leader, and date or party that is most opposed to the also serves to discourage the emergence of concerting measures in opposition to each beliefs of the third party voters. Another third parties such as campaign finance rules, 4. Taking Pictures other. This, in my humble apprehension, is common occurrence for third parties is the electoral college, and single-member How many times have you gone to a friend or family mem- to be dreaded as the greatest political evil when their ideas are absorbed by one of the districts where the individual with the most ber’s home and picked up a photo album? Were you able to under our Constitution.” ((John Adams)) two major parties. The original party’s main votes wins. go through that album without smiling at least once? Proba- This quote from John Adams is a ideas will stay the same, but will typically These factors combine to make bly not. Everyone has turned through the pages of that pho- perfect reflection of America’s current gov- be paired with the major parties’ agenda, third parties in American politics serve the to album and re-lived some of the memories you saw in the ernmental system. Most countries around as well as limiting the politicians previously important purpose of refocusing the two pictures. I’m sure you said things like, “I remember this!” or the world have several political parties, but unaffiliated with them. Examples of such major political parties on issues they have “We had so much fun here!”. Looking back, it didn’t mat- in the United States the political process would be the 1892 Populist Party headed by ignored or dealt with ineffectively. Although ter that we were being forced to take the picture, because is characterized by a ‘two-party system’ James B. Weaver, which held nine percent of third parties rarely win any political offices now we appreciate that we have them to look back on. because there have historically been only the vote with 22 electoral votes until it was their importance is evident and existence two major political parties with candidates quickly absorbed by the Democratic party, needed to keep the larger parties focused. Parents devote the best and most productive years of their life competing for offices, where those in third and again with the 1912 Progressive party Despite John Adams’ fears, America’s po- to raise their children. They try to lead you down the right path or minor parties have little to no chance of headed by Teddy Roosevelt himself which litical system of today is saved through the and put up with you and your attitude, sassiness, and brattiness. success. Why is this the case? won 28 percent of the vote with an Elec- emergence of third parties and the people Even though we might always agree with them, we understand For starters, if a third party be- toral vote of 88 was then absorbed by the behind them. that they only do the things that they do because they love us.

Can teenagers fall in love? SpeakOut While falling in love at a young age is Do you think teens can fall in love? romanticized in media, in real life it is chalked up to nothing more than hormones “It depends on the people. I just think that some peo- ple take it more seriously than others. Some people and immaturity want to fall in love -- others just want to have fun, or by Allison Griffard don’t know where to look for love.” Opinions Editor --Sophomore Alex Steller

“Teenagers are incapable of love; they can merely lust.” wrong is when they generalize all teens into this category These are the words that came from a pastor’s mouth, and of perpetual libido. There are many teens that don’t com- many people would agree with him. However, this is com- ply with their desires and remain in an innocent relation- “I say no because your brain’s not fully developed pletely absurd. Of course teens can love -- it’s not as if all ship. There are also many teens who do give in, yet they until you’re 25. You’re both going to change in the of our emotions emulate from our respective loins. The don’t let it define the relationship. Most teens do lust, but next couple of years. People just think they’re in question is, though, whether or not we are able to under- that does not mean that they are incapable of love. love.” stand the love that we have. Now, while these teens are in their relationships, --Senior Haley Thomas Most teens that get in relationships feel as if it is rare to find a pair that actually appreciate and under- they love their significant other. And a lot of the time, they stand the love that they have for one another. As a teen, do -- not in the sense of true love, but love on its own. emotions are always firing out of nowhere, so the actual The kind of love that is just caring about another person’s “love” emotion tends to get left behind in the dust, though well-being, and generally enjoying being around them. It is teens like to talk about it. It is only through loss that most “Yeah. I think it just depends on how mature they not the love, I think, that more mature people can carry. It teens feel their love for what it really is. When their partner are. My parents did. But now I think it’s kinda hard is not the kind of love that kids see between their parents leaves for college or moves away, a teen is generally devas- because we’re all so self-absorbed. But yeah, I think or even their grandparents -- the kind of love that involves tated. If, heaven forbid, the partner were to pass away, the they can.” real sacrifices. The love that teens in relationships have for teen would completely dissolve. Through loss is where a --Junior Justin Huffman each other is not mature, but it can get there. Teens tend teenager really grasps their love. They don’t quite appre- to confuse compromise with sacrifice, but like I said, their ciate their significant other while they’re there in the way relationship is not incapable of growing. It is a matter of that mature people, like adults, are able to. This does not “Yes. I think emotionally anyone can fall in love. It just working on it with your partner, and sticking to it through mean the love is absent though, and it does not mean that comes down to whether or not you’re able to deal with anything. The pastor, I’m sure, knows this, but thinks that all that is felt is desire. Teens can feel love like anyone else: those feelings. That makes all the difference. As far with this love there comes a stronger need for physical we are humans after all. A distinct quality of a human is as teenagers go, you always hear about people that intimacy that overshadows any adoring feelings. This can that we are able to love -- being hormonal at times does get married when they’re 16 and stay together until be true for some high school relationships. This, in itself, not change that. they’re 88, and that’s great.” is not love. It is lust, and it is unhealthy. Where people go --World Languages Teacher Mr. Kuehnle [email protected] May 2016 6 Features

The Class of 2016 has big plans and some advice to share.

Colton Kassen Lindsay Recar Jordan Shockley Maddie Brown Brittany Mitchell Plans after Jefferson: I plan to Plans after Jefferson: I plan to attend Plans after Jefferson: I plan to Plans after Jefferson: I plan to Plans after Jefferson: I plan to attend attend Jefferson College, paid for Jefferson College after I graduate. After attend Westminister College on a attend Southeast Missouri State. I SEMO for two years, then attend a col- by my A+ money, then transfer to a that, I’m not sure. I’m still undecided football scholarship. My major is hope to earn my Bachelor’s in ei- lege in California or Florida and major in four-year university. on a major, but I’d like to do something undecided. ther music education or education. marine biology. Once I graduate, I want involving writing, art, or both. to move to Hawaii to start my career. Favorite Quote: The only reason Advice to freshmen: Stay on top of Advice to freshmen: His soul might they tell you that you can’t do it is Favorite Quote: Confused? Unsure work and don’t procrastinate. Don’t be a sun. I’ve never met anyone Life is one big party because they are afraid you can. what to do? Wow, sounds like let others try and change you. who had a sun for a soul. Favorite Quote: you’re human. Good luck. while you’re still young, but who’s going to have your back when it’s all done?

Bobbie Bollinger Cameren Rineberg Bruna Mazetto Michael Tautphaues Todd Killgore Plans after Jefferson: I plan on attend- Plans after Jefferson: I plan to at- Plans after Jefferson: I plan to Plans after Jefferson: I plan to ing college, but I am still waiting to return to Brazil after leaving high Plans after Jefferson: I plan to attend tend a four-year university, although Jefferson College then transfer to a attend a college, though I am hear back from several schools. I am undecided where. school. I plan to attend college. four-year university. I am undecided on undecided where. I plan to major in Advice to freshmen: Do the things that Advice to freshmen: Enjoy the time Favorite Quote: Just because you aren’t where I will transfer. computer science. because it goes by fast. interest you, like ATS through Jeffco. where you thought you would be, that Favorite Quote: Make them dollars, Advice to freshmen: Stay on top of Get involved with sports or clubs doesn’t mean you aren’t going to be don’t let them make you. due dates and don’t procrastinate. because it looks good on a college there shortly. Life is teaching you the application. lessons to make you get there.

Ellie Steller Haley Thomas Mariss Nahlik Katelyn Rundel Jade Keel Plans after Jefferson: I plan to Plans after Jefferson: I plan to attend Plans after Jefferson: I plan to attend Plans after Jefferson: I plan on at- Plans after Jefferson: I plan to attend Truman State University Mizzou in the fall. I hope to get into the Jefferson College and earn my Assos- tending Jefferson College, paid for attend University of Missouri-St. in the fall. I am still unsure about pre-law program, and major in political ciates in Business Management, while by my A+ money, then transferring Louis. I plan to major in nursing, my major, but I am leaning toward science, then become a defense attorney. keeping my job at Walmart. Then, to either SEMO or MSU. I plan to and be accepted into their nursing English or history. I hope to further my education at a major in early childhood education. program. Advice to freshmen: High school is like four-year university. Don’t be Favorite Quote: Sometimes in “The Climb.” Once you get to the top, Advice to freshmen: Be who you are Advice to freshmen: the winds of change we find our the view is great. It’s hard now, but it will Favorite Quote: Don’t be afraid of and own it. Don’t follow the crowd. annoying. direction. all be worth it. the possibilities you come across.

Wyatt Self Kendall Huffman Emily Ray Alyssa Becherer Casey Hines Plans after Jefferson: I plan to attend Plans after Jefferson: I plan to attend Plans after Jefferson: I plan to Plans after Jefferson: I plan to Plans after Jefferson: I plan to Jeffco and earn an Associate of the Jefferson College and earn my paramedic attend Jefferson College, majoring attend Truman State and major in attend a four-year university. How- Arts degree (A.A), and then transfer license. Then, I hope to attend a universi- in dental hygiene. Then I plan to nursing. After college, I hope to be- ever, I am uncertain where. I will be to Webster and earn a Bachelor’s ty and get my Bachelor’s in fire science. transfer to St. Louis Community come a pediatric nurse practitioner. majoring as an undecided. degree in audio production. College. Advice to freshmen: Be nice to Favorite Quote: Life’s all about the Advice to freshmen: Get involved in Favorite Quote: If you don’t love everyone and do great so you can Favorite Quote: We are all crazy, moments of impact, and how they as many things as possible. yourself, how the hell are you gonna succeed so you can say you are some of us just hide it better than will change our lives forever. love somebody else? going somewhere in life. others. The Beacon May 2016 Features 7

Siarra Sullivan Nathan Ashbrook Alison Batts Jamison Oberle Mike Reed Plans after Jefferson: I plan to Plans after Jefferson: I plan to Plans after Jefferson: I plan to Plans after Jefferson: I plan to Plans after Jefferson: I plan to attend attend Jefferson College for two attend Mineral Area College, ma- attend University of Central Mis- complete my internship at Thom- Ranken Technical College. I plan to years, then attend Murray State to joring in agriculture business. After souri, double majoring in criminal as Industrial Coatings, an industrial specialize in auto mechanics. painting company. I then plan to get a major in veterinary sciences. MAC, I plan to attend Williams justice and political science. I will job at TIC. Favorite Quote: The only way to Baptist in Arkansas where I will graduate in three years, and then guarantee failure is to never try at all. Advice to freshmen: Take high Do not pursue a degree in youth ministry. attend law school. Advice to freshmen: school seriously. You only get one procrastinate. Keep on top Stay on top of chance, so don’t mess around. Advice to freshmen: Advice to freshmen: of your work so you don’t have to work and don’t procrastinate. Don’t worry about passing classes. let others try and change you.

Josh Mobley Samantha White Jarrett Manns Molly Hill Nick Pope I plan to Plans after Jefferson: I plan to Plans after Jefferson: Plans after Jefferson: I plan to join Plans after Jefferson: I plan to Plans after Jefferson: I plan to attend attend Columbia College on a attend East Central Community the U.S. Army after high school. attend University of Missouri- Co- Jefferson College, using my A+ money, and finishing my general education. baseball scholarship. I plan to major College on a softball scholarship. I My contract is set for 3 years and lumbia, majoring in health science. in nursing. plan to major in occupational ther- I hope to travel with my job. I then plan to transfer to University 17 weeks. of Missouri- Columbia and major in Advice to freshmen: Get involved in apy and become an occupational Favorite Quote: A lot of people tell Advice to freshmen: Time flies radiology. sports, because you make life-long therapist assistant. me I’m a bit.. dreamy. But I like the Advice to freshmen: Be who you frienships, and it makes the time go Advice to freshmen: Always believe idea of that. Of being somewhere are, not who others want you to be. a lot faster. that something good is about to else. happen.

Jordan Troquille Courtney Eisenbeis Logan Drysdale Emily Thomas Elisa Pezza I plan to I plan on at- Plans after Jefferson: I plan to Plans after Jefferson: Plans after Jefferson: I plan to attend Plans after Jefferson: Plans after Jefferson: I plan to attend Jefferson College. attend Maryville University in Jefferson College and major in biology. tending Jefferson College to finish return to Italy and finish the five St. Louis and major in nursing. my Associate’s degree, then trans- Take school Advice to freshmen: Show up years I have left in art school. Then Advice to freshmen: ferring to a four-year university. I seriously. Advice to freshmen: You won’t get everyday and get your required I plan to attend University. am majoring in art and design and these four years back and it’s best credits during your freshmen and Favorite Quote: Everyone you meet minoring in literasture. to look back at the memories you sophomore year, then you will be is fighting a battle you know noth- Normality is made rather than regretting not able to take classes you enjoy. Advice to freshmen: ing about. Be kind. Always. making any. a paved road; it’s comfortable to walk, but no flowers grow on it.

Will Pasley Nick Parris Lauren Beckham Gerald Payne Brandon Friedmeyer Plans after Jefferson: I plan to Plans after Jefferson: I am undecided Plans after Jefferson: I plan to attend Plans after Jefferson: I plan to Plans after Jefferson: I plan to start attend Jefferson College. My major on my plans after high school. Jefferson College and earn my RN attend Jefferson College, then working in a factory immediately is undecided. degree. I also plan to continue taking transfer after two years to Missouri following graduation. Take school Advice to freshmen: Get involved or Advice to freshmen: courses at Jefferson College, through University of Science and Technol- Advice to freshmen: You can retake seriously. you will regret it. UCM, to complete my BSN. ogy. I plan to major in engineering, a test, but you can’t relive a party. and minor in explosives. Favorite Quote: Sometimes you will never know the value of a moment Advice to freshmen: Graduate early. until it becomes a memory

Zach Griggs Brendan Hammock Mackenzie Null Tyler Gosnell Hilah Fish Plans after Jefferson: I plan to attend Plans after Jefferson: I plan to attend Plans after Jefferson: I plan to get a Plans after Jefferson: I plan to Plans after Jefferson: I plan to Jefferson College for two years, then job immediately after high school in attend Meramec College on a base- attend Southeast Missouri State and St. Louis College of Pharmacy on a transfer to a four-year university. I am welding or some type of labor job. ball scholarship, while majoring in major in elementary education. scholarship for volleyball and earn my unsure what I want to study. sports/business management. pharmaceutical degree, with a Bachelors Advice to freshmen: Don’t take time with Favorite Quote: When you want to Favorite Quote: I will not tiptoe in biology. Do your work, Advice to freshmen: your friends for granted. When people succeed as badly as you want to through life to arrive safely at Advice to freshmen: Your GPA doesn’t don’t slack. say high school flies by, they mean it. Just breathe, then you will be succesful. death. #rip307 define you. Grades are important, but have fun, have no regrets, and enjoy it. they aren’t everything. Keep working hard, you can do it. [email protected] May 2016 8 Sports

by Mackenzie Null Coaches do have favorites Sports Editor The coaches at Jefferson have their own style for many different reasons. Whether it is in practice or a game, the coaches use some of their favorite things to help them make decisions. From their inspirations for coaching to their punishments for their athletes, the Jefferson coaches have their favorites that some might not know.

Head basketball coach Brandon Joines Head track coach Natalie Fallert Favorite inspiration: Watching games (in general) and seeing plays and Favorite inspiration: I think about the podium at state… How many people can I get ideas I like or don’t like is the most useful way to bring new ideas to my standing there/ I also think about the runners potential. We have so much potential... if own coaching we could just harness it in the right direction. What workout or coaching style do I need to Favorite professional athlete: Kevin Garnett, because of his intensity change to harness that individual? Favorite workout: Anything involving lifting weights, preferably free Favorite professional athlete: Jackie Joyner-Kersee or Usain Bolt weights Favorite workout: Repeat 200s and repeat 800s or track practice before districts… scavenger hunt Favorite professional team: Minnesota Timberwolves, it started with Garnett Favorite professional team: STL Cardinals Practice or game?: The coach in me is supposed to say practice, but I prefer seeing Practice or meets?: Practice makes me laugh… meets make me excited things that we work on actually play out successfully in games; hence, my animation during Favorite team to beat: Valle because I love beating them and watching their coach. Festus because we can games still hang with them and we are a small school. Herky because our coaching styles seem to be very different Favorite team to beat: Any time we play a rival, it’s a fun atmosphere to be a part of; I as well as our mentality. don’t have one specific team (I want to beat everyone) Favorite punishment: Repeat 200s Favorite punishment: Conditioning is never punishment, so none.

Head football coach Alex Rouggly Head volleyball coach Ashleigh Nagel Favorite inspiration: I’ve been fortunate to work with and be coached by Favorite inspiration: John Cook, Nebraska Head Volleyball Coach. I started going to his a lot of good coaches. With that said I really took a lot from my old high coaching clinics in 2008 and after watching him earlier in my coaching career I decided I school coaches, Bobby Thompson & Andy Runzi. I always told myself that wanted to model my head coaching philosophy similar to his. those were the two people that most inspired me to be a the type of coach I Favorite professional athlete: Kerri Walsh: she is an amazing and admirable volleyball am today. player and as a mom I admire her and her return to volleyball after children. Especially since Favorite professional athlete: Peyton Manning - I love the way he prepares himself, both the last Olympics she was pregnant and won a gold medal. physically and mentally, to be the best he can be. Favorite workout: Spinning and circuits because it’s on the go, fast, and gets results. Favorite workout: Power cleans are my favorite workout, for many reasons. Favorite professional team: Cardinals: it’s a fun sport to watch and they make it a fun town to live in during Favorite professional team: St. Louis Cardinals - always have been and always will be! the season. Practice or game?: Game, although I love practice time, there is nothing like Friday night Practice or game?: Game: because my players have always been “gamers” which makes that more fun that lights. practice. Favorite team to beat: Valle Catholic . We are preparing everyday to beat the best Favorite team to beat: Jefferson County All Stars or....St. Pius. Favorite punishment: Hills, enough said! Favorite punishment: Whatever the kids don’t like because the kids hate them and that’s the purpose, to give motivation to do better and that’s best done when kids don’t like the consequence.

SPOTLIGHT Hit and run by Jordan Shockley and Macy Hill ATHLETES Staff Writers Baseball As summer nears and spring is in full swing, baseball season is flying by. The Blue jays base- Junior Gunnison Heine ball team is 7-9 overall and 3-0 in conference. In the next two weeks they have three conference games against St. Pius, Crystal City, and St. Vincent. If they win those three games they will be crowned conference champs. This will make the Blue jay baseball team confer- ence champs two out of the last three years. Head baseball coach, Robert Kuehnle, admits it was a slow start. “While there were early growing pains, lots of guys have stepped Pictured right is Junior Blain Prater pitching against the opposing team West County Bulldogs. up, and the team is starting to get on a roll.” The Blue Jays beat the Bulldogs 9-8. Pictured left are members of the boys and girls track team holding up their first place Grandview Invitational plaque. So far out of their nine losses, six of them have come by two runs or less. It’s easy erybody has bought in and that should take us The Jefferson girls made history, re- to see these Blue Jays won’t go down without far into the state playoffs,” said Kuehnle. cieving the first ever Conference Champions a fight. Track plaque. “Each girl stepped up and earned What is it about baseball Districts will start May 13th here at The JHS track team is off to a record breaking points, breaking school and personal records. that you love? Jefferson. The baseball team is looking to win start for the 2016 season. The girls finished 1st Sixteen girls showed up to upset teams of 30- their first ever District Championship. Ac- at the Mineral Area relay meet, with the boys 50 athletes.” said head coach Natalie Fallert. ”I love how relaxed it is and that you complishing this feat at home would make the following in 3rd place. Both teams received 1st Members from both teams plan to go all the experience more memorable. Coach Kuehnle at the Grandview invitational, which was also way to the State finals, and the girls are push- get to play with your friends.” may be the most excited for Districts. “Lead- the first meet that the boys team has ever won. ing for a 1st place finish. ership has been great. It really seems like ev- Freshman Anna Heacock

What is it about track that you love?

I love the friendly competition and how there is always room for Improvement. You can always run faster. The Beacon May 2016 Sports 9 Locker Room Anatomy As unique as their odors, the boys and girls locker rooms have distinct differences and their own personalities by Casey Hines Staff Writer ... went to London on an all-star cheer team?

A) Hueter B) Moulten C) Fallert

D) Guffey C) Fallert C)

... played intramural flag football and won regionals?

A) Rouggly B) Schachner C) Atley

D) Lindhorst B) Schachner B)

... was the college dorm room champ in ping pong?

A) Schaffer B) Schachner C) Rouggly

D) Herzog C) Rouggly C)

by Sarah Handrahan ... got 2nd at state for Staff Writer humerous speech interpretation? A) Haug B) Fallert C) Thompson D) Zenker BOYS GIRLS Zenker D) ... was the college dorm during the day. The boys tend to talk about the way door and the track athletes and cheerlead- by Sarah Handrahan game last night and what practice is going to be ers/dancers use all of the lockers farthest from room champ in bowling? Staff Writer on that day. the door to the gym. In the morning, the girls locker room is a In contrast, the boys locker room is a little A) Kuehnle The boys and girls locker rooms have very differ- hangout for those girls that do not want to sit in confusing. Cross country athletes use the lockers B) Graf ent anatomies. A few of the differences include: the gym or cafeteria or just want to finish getting near the door to the hallway, while football and C) Woodland the decor of the lockers, the smells, the entranc- ready for school. Once school is out, us girls will basketball athletes tend to use the lockers closest D) Nagel

es, and the conversations. gather in the locker room to discuss all the things to the door to the outside of the school. The Kuehnle A) Girls like to smell good; therefore, there that happened throughout the day and talk about football and basketball players have to switch the can sometimes be a combination of the per- how much we dread going to practice. lockers they use when their sport is not in sea- ... went to Hawaii and played fumes used during the day; boys are usually not For the incoming freshman girls, here’s a son. Baseball players are just stuck with the lock- too worried about the way they smell, so their tip on where to choose your locker on the first er they have when season rolls around and track softball with team Kansas? locker room usually has a unique mixture of day of school. The cross country runners typi- athletes use lockers from every part of the locker sweat and dirty laundry. The boys locker room cally choose the lockers in the far corner of the room. When school is over and the boys meet in A) Lindhorst opens to the hallway and the outside, while the locker room near the bathroom stalls. The girls the locker room they talk about things like what B) Bowman girls enter to the hallway and the gym. Conversa- that play basketball or volleyball usually choose they think will happen during practice and how C) Saylor

tions in the girls locker room ranges from what lockers closest to the coach’s office door, the much running they think they will have to do. D) Baum Lindhorst A) happened last night to the things that happened softball players choose the lockers near the hall- [email protected] May 2016 10 Features

Who do you follow 13 things that could go wrong on Twitter? on Friday the 13th Graduation by Alyssa Becherer Staff Writer

by Molly Hill Listed below are 12 other Co-editor-in-cheif unlucky things that could When deciding who to follow on Twitter it is a good idea to follow a happen on Friday the 13th: nice variety of different users. Too many Chatterboxes and you will 1. A black cat runs across the stage have information overload, too many shy tweeters and your time line will need dusting off. It’s good to keep a balanced amount of all Photo Illustration by Holly Welker Classic the different accounts. So once you join the bandwagon and create For those of you who haven’t heard, this year’s graduation has a Twitter account, who do you follow? been set for Friday, May 13, 2016. Yes, you read that correctly, 2. Mr. Johnston passes out while reading his Friday the 13th. Not only is this beyond creepy, but just imagine forever long speech everything that could potentially go wrong... Thank goodness There are a few different types of people you can follow on Twit- Before even showing up to the school for graduation, ter. Below explains each type of Twitter user: you break a mirror. You’re brushing your hair and hit that one 3. The stage collapses gosh darn knot that just won’t come out. The brush then slips Maybe the school board should lay off the pizza The Broadcaster out of your hand, barrels towards the mirror, and shatters it. If They joined Twitter for one reason and one reason only: to this happens to you on the night of graduation, please, for the 4. All graduates get food poisoning and are make sure the Twittersphere knows they love sports and knows sake of all attendees, do not show up to the ceremony. If you unable to attend who is winning and losing games.... Every. Single. Game. still decide to come, and bring your seven years of bad luck with Probably from the Lam’s they ate on Senior Skip Day you, more crazy things are sure to happen. The Newbie (Egg) For example, your newfound bad luck could usher in 5. Someone throws up while walking across We all came into Twittersphere as eggs; however, sadly, many of the thunderstorm of the century. With thunder, lightning, and those eggs never hatch. We can spot these awkward moms from a winds faster than 30 miles per hour, this storm would make the the stage to receive their diploma mile off, egg-faced and lacking in followers. As they wander aim- Also probably from Lam’s trip to the gym very challenging. Not only does rain make road lessly around Twitterville, they retweet month-old posts about Halo conditions unsafe to travel on, it creates for a very spooky eve- from their son’s profile. But don’t let their 12 followers fool you, ning. 6. Every senior’s house gets broken in to they are about to hatch into the big, blue world known as Twitter. On top of the storm of the century taking place outside, Courtesy of the thieves that have plagued the school you could trip on stage; however, since it is Friday the 13th this district The Shy Tweeter fall wouldn’t be just any normal fall. As your name is called, These individuals don’t know how to really use Twitter and are much you make your way to Mr. Johnston, proudly strutting and smil- 7. The senior slide show is pictures of Picnik more comfortable on Facebook. You rarely see this user’s name pop up ing ear to ear because you have finally made it and it is time to edits from sixth grade on your feed, and when you do, it’s neither mind-blowing or life-chang- receive your diploma. Suddenly, your 10-inch wedge heel that Lovin’ those long locks, Gosnell ing. This tweeter’s tweet will most likely be lost in the twitter ocean. makes you look like a fawn taking its first steps into life, gets caught in your graduation gown and it rips. You start to tumble 8. The cops show up to arrest every senior The Chatterbox and fall to the ground wiping out everything in sight and rolling because of their illegal senior prank We all know this one: never shuts up, constantly tweeting, always nat- right towards the edge of the stage. Everyone is praying you tering. The problem is it’s with the same six people everyday and you It was only TP? don’t fall off, but, come on, it’s the Friday the 13th. So you keep end up unfollowing them just for some peace and quiet. Their verbal on rolling right off the stage and onto the photographers down diarrhea on Twitter is gaining nothing and certainly not new followers. below. You are like a bowling ball knocking down all the pins. 9. The American flag touches the ground Careless Boy Scouts STRIKE. Of course after a fall like this there are several severe The Celeb injuries. 911 is called and the paramedics take you to the hospital Yep, that’s the reason we all hear about Twitter before we join it. where you find out that you have broken your ankle, wrist, and 10. The basketball goal comes unhinged and Taylor Swift v. Nicki Minaj, Drake v. Meek Mill...if only we had such severely bruised your tail bone. And to think this is all from one hits whoever is speaking at the time power to create mass hysteria with 140 characters. Although we can’t seemingly harmless trip on stage. Maybe we should have spent some of that auditorium do such things, it’s still great to watch these uneducated fools make After you are taken away, the address to the class of 2016 money on new ones! a mockery of themselves and Twitter by ranting and then deleting begins. Mackenzie Null, the speaker on behalf of the class of tweets. Whatever - we screenshot and retweet it before you realized. 2016, is right in the middle of her speech when BANG, the 11. Skunks spray all of the graduates’ friends school is struck by lightning from the bizarre storm. The power and family in attendance The Lurker immediately goes out and causes a massive wave of panic to Remember Courtwarming? Ask the Runzis. Everyone, at some point, becomes a Lurker. We have all clicked surge throughout the gym. Then, all of a sudden the hallway on a picture of our friend, then clicked on another picture, then right outside of the gym bursts into flames. Everyone immedi- 12. In the rush of traffic to leave, there is a 45 minutes later we are stalking your friend’s cousin’s boyfriend’s ately floods out of the building to safety and tries to find their brother. Oh, and don’t forget scrolling up to 3 years back on some- loved ones. The fire department shows up and puts out the fire, massive pileup on Blue Jay Way. one’s profile and accidentally liking one of their tweets.... It’s okay, it Mr. Haug and Mr. Graf weren’t out there to direct traffic, but the graduation can no longer be held in the gym. So as the happens to the best of us. Most Lurkers primarily use their Twitter what were we supposed to do? storm powers on, graduation is canceled until further notice. for stalking enemies and keeping tabs on the latest gossip.

Proudly Supports Jefferson High School

Sapaugh GM Country Is Expanding! Best Deals • Better Service Happy Customers 1,000 VEHICLES IN STOCK Sapaugh.com The Beacon May 2016 Features 11 Getting salty Behind the Newspaper by Elisa Pezza Now that you know some of the basic about spice Staff Writer principles of the Journalism class, you by Holly Welker are ready to know the process of how island Features Editor we create amazing newspapers... Step 1: Finding and Discussing Ideas It is a kind of brainstorming period where everybody (not really everybody) comes up with their own ideas about future articles. It is my second favorite moment (you will understand later why it is not the first) where we politely yell at each other and try to figure out if the idea would work or not. Usually if an idea creates a big discussion, it means that it is a GREAT idea.

Step 2: The Secret Conference This is a little meeting that takes place for one or two days where Mrs. Hueter and the editors meet in the magical back room I mentioned previously, and where you are absolutely not allowed to enter because it is top secret. During this conference, Do you know what lies behind the door they argue which ideas are the best and what should be changed. After this they write the topics on the board, dividing them Photo Illustration by Elisa Pezza in Mrs. Hueter’s room near the board? between the four categories: News, Opinions, Features, and If your answer is yes, then you can just Sports. Food service departments in high schools across the nation have skip the first part of this article. If your been spicing up their food lately. When I say that they are spicing Step 3: Picking Your Article up their food, I mean it in a literal sense. These high schools are answer is no, the door is the actually the When the secret conference ends, one of the co-editor-in-chiefs now offering flavor stations with a variety of spices for students to secret entryway to the magic world of will open the door and say, “It’s time to pick your articles. Write choose from. The spices are a mixture of many other spices, rang- Narnia. Just kidding, the door leads to a your name on the board next the topic you want.” In this mo- ing anywhere from sweet to salty. These new flavor stations give ment, you know that you have to run to beat the other writers students the ability to tailor their food to their taste interests and room just for the Newspaper staff where and take the easiest article so you can continue to sleep during the power to change up the bland, tasteless school food. the editors set up their pages and edit class. Using other schools’ flavor stations as inspiration, school nu- stories... tritionist Tim Davis has implemented a sort of “spice island” here Step 4 and 5: The Boring Parts at JHS. Davis is spice island’s biggest advocate. A couple months Maybe a lot of you think that it is really easy to write articles for It is time to begin to actually do something and interview people ago he presented the “very expensive spices” to first and second the newspaper, but trust me, it is anything but easy. Writing an for your article. Usually they give you 1-2 weeks to write it, but lunch, hopeful that we would enjoy the new addition to the lunch- article, or better yet, simply deciding what to write takes a very we already know that most write it the night before the due date, room. long time. Listed below are a few of the things that I have learned like I did for this article. This is also the part where your host Spice island is located on a table in the middle of the cafete- while being on the Newspaper staff: sister corrects your article because you are an exchange student ria. Its location has forced many lunch tables to move. Now, after who does not know English. When you are done, Mrs. Hueter you type in your lunch code you are greeted by the table and have 1. Your opinions are yours, and it is absolutely okay to have them and the editors will tear your article apart. But, don’t be sad, they to navigate around it and the cluster of kids in line. as long as you do not scream them and force them down others’ are the editors for a reason. More like an obstacle you have to get around to find your throats. seat at lunch, spice island is not well-liked by the student body. The 2. NEVER go against one of the editors, because they have all of Step 6: Give Life to the Articles only reason students ever go there is to get the ketchup that the the power. If you make one of them mad, your story will never If you are a writer, your work is done, and you can go back to lunch ladies moved out of the lunch line, not for the spices. Maybe see the light of day. sleep. But, if you are an editor, now is the time where you start JHS should consider getting whatever spices the flavor stations at 3. This one is for readers. Be respectful to the members of the to create the official pages of the newspaper, trying out various other schools have, because our spice island is deserted. Newspaper staff, or we might write a cruel article about you. combinations of layout to make it the prettiest it can be.

Step 7: The End This is the part where you finally realize that you are a part of What does your taste in music the Newspaper staff. You know that you have been brainwashed by the journalistic process when you get irrationally angry if by Lindsay Recar you find a newspaper in the trash can or feel extremely insulted say about you? Staff Writer if people do not open the baby that you put your blood, sweat, Rockin’ Recar and tears into. Or whenever you are asked the ever-insulting question, “Why do you guys only put out like three papers a Here’s what your favorite genres say year?” about you... Step 8: Food Pop Now, you all can finally understand my favorite part of the When people say “life of the party,” they’re probably talking about newspaper process. FOOD. As a celebration, every staff you! Since you’re outgoing, friendly, and know how to talk, social member brings in some food and Mrs. Hueter orders pizza, as activities tend to be your domain. a reward for all of our hard work. We all just hang out and have Rock fun, enjoying the accomplishment of a finished newspaper. Stop It’s always best not to judge a book by its cover. Contrary to popular belief, you are capable of being both gentle and at ease. Although it may be hard for some to see past your music taste, you know how to stay calm. Country For whatever project or task, you do your best. You know how to Photo Illustration by Elisa Pezza separate work and play, which is why you are the most hardworking. All alternative rock enthusiasts wear spikes and spray paint over- Rap Tara Price passes while country-lovers can be found chasing tumbleweeds and In order to command attention, rap artists must talk big and exude Owner/ Photographer selling lemonade out of their truck bed, right? Well, no, it’s not as confidence. The same goes for their fans! You tend to be the most Tara Price Photography simple as that. Studies have found that musical preference can show confident of your peers and are more outgoing than most. (314) 779-8860 how people think and act. Indie People who pay special attention to others’ thoughts and emo- You go against the flow and find music outside of the norm. It’s tarapricephoto.com tions are more likely to enjoy slower music with emotional depth like not a stretch that you would also be the most creative. Whether it’s Call now to book your senior R&B, soft rock, and singer/songwriter genres. On the other hand, through art, music, or brainstorming, you are able to come up with photo session! those who favor patterns enjoy intense music with intellectual depth the ideas that others fail to think of. like hard rock, punk, and heavy metal.

Sunday-Thursday: 7:00 AM - 10:00 PM Friday & Saturday: 7:00 AM - 12:00 AM

(573) 483-3223

5201 Valley View Drive Bloomsdale, MO 63627 The Beacon May 2016 Features 12 E T A C H E by HollyR Welker S Features Editor

Have you ever wondered what character you would be if your life was a television show? You’ve tried all of those BuzzFeed quizzes (Don’t lie, we’ve all taken “Which Kardashian are you?”), but they do not quite get who you are (Out of all the Kardashians, I got Kim, really?). Maybe those quiz results are a little off because you do not complete- ly understand yourself (Do I really have a big butt?). The Beacon decided to put this theory to the test in this article where we compare teachers and staff in the school district to characters from the TV show Friends. Because, who knows them better than the students who learn from them each day? “So no one told you teaching was gonna be this way...” *CLAP* *CLAP* *CLAP* *CLAP*

Photo Illustration by Elisa Pezza

R O S S C H A N D L E R J O E Y Mr. Koenig Mr. Zenker Mr. Kuehnle What would life be without a caring, kind, and Mr. Zenker is extremely sarcastic and has It’s the simple things that make Mr. Kuehnle good-humored person like Mr. Koenig? He can a dry sense of humor. He likes to have fun, happy -- like sub sandwiches, reclining chairs, be awkward and sensitive, but he makes up for but knows when it’s time to be serious. If and foosball. He is constantly mocked because it with his endearing childlike mannerisms (the you insult the Broncos or tease him about of the subject he “teaches,” but is no-doubt pranks he pulls on Kuehnle and the games he being a Communist, you will likely receive a hard worker who would do anything for his plays with Zenker). Hey, that’s what makes him a sting of a comeback and ultimate dislike. friends. Even if he’s not into grownup responsi- a neat guy. As Ross is the leader of his friend Much like Chandler, you do not want to get bilities (yet), he still knows how to rock the “How group, Mr. Koenig is the king of this group of on his bad side (Right, Janice?). you doin’?” pick-up line anytime. teachers. Also, Mr. Koenig’s first name is Ross, how could this match up be any more perfect? R A C H E L M O N I C A P H O E B E Mrs. Fallert Mrs. Wilkey Coach Nagel It’s Mrs. Fallert’s world and we are just living in For Mrs. Wilkey, having fun is all about Coach Nagel is a free spirit. Like Phoebe who it. She is smart and fashion-forward, which is rules and regulations. She is mature, lev- gave up school to pursue her singing career, probably why people look up to her personal el-headed, and is always thinking about the Coach Nagel dropped out of college and moved style -- she rocks just as many hairstyles as future. She is also extremely competitive to Colorado to become a ski lift operator! Unlike Rachel and should have one named after her and a perfectionist who’s obsessed with Phoebs, Coach Nagel finished her schooling, too. She also knows how to manipulate people keeping things super neat and organized. but she is still that adventurous dreamer who to get what she wants, but who doesn’t? “Don’t touch my blinds!” isn’t afraid to belt out some high notes every now and then, “Smelly cat, smelly cat!”