What’s Inside

Glass CorridorsJanuary 2014 High School or Prison? p. 14

Westhill’s 50th Reunion p. 2&3

Music Lessons Helpful or Hurtful p. 15

Break-up Advice p. 7

Today’s Trends p. 10&11

Gifts on a Budget p. 12&13 Glass Corridors Westhill from the Ground Up By Liz Klink for informa- to high school somewhere.” This tion about the school was full of new opportu- formation of nities for students. Tim Bunn, the school. the 1964 class president, lived Since it was 50 in Tipperary Hill and was al- years ago, not lowed to attend Westhill if he many people worked off the cost as a custodian. remember, but The 1960s were different our Superin- times, therefore a different way To some people, it is quite tendent Mr. Barduhn was the son of of life. There were different clubs, clear how much has changed since a member of the first Westhill Board sports, fun activities and fashion. the 1960s. Schools were much dif- of Education. The Board didn’t just Some of the clubs at Westhill were ferent fifty years ago. Westhill hasn’t decide which houses would be in- Future Homemakers of Ameri- been around forever; it was formed in cluded and which wouldn’t. Mr. ca, Future Teachers of America, the 1960s. This July, the first graduat- Barduhn said, “They went door to and Future Nurses of America ing class of Westhill is having a 50th There were door with . . . which were all female clubs. reunion for the first students of this a sheet of school. For alumni, it will be strange different paper ask- coming back after so many years. clubs, sports, ing peo- In the 1950s, elementary ple if they students attended small schools fun activities wanted to closer to their homes. Once it was and fashion. join the time for high school, the schools district. were bigger, so sometimes people They could either say yes or no. who went to different elementary This method is known as gerryman- schools could end up together in dering.” If a person said no, but his high school. People living in Onon- neighbor said yes, it would form very Future Homemakers of America daga Hill could have gone to various strange lines. That is why our school schools, depending on their ad- has such odd boundaries; some The sports were very similar to today, dress. Some could go to Marcellus, houses two minutes away may be a but for boys only. For girls, the only OCS, or city schools. People living part of a different district, but hous- sport was cheerleading. There were in Westvale would go to either West es twenty minutes away could be. still games and dances back then. Genesee or Solvay. When schools When the Westhill Cen- For fun, the students would attend started to cut their numbers, Solvay tral School District was formed, a dance right after the big games. A stopped allowing Westvale residents students came from Westvale and 1964 graduate, Sally Siemoens said, to attend their schools. After this Onondaga Hill, and most of them “We had dances, sports activities, happened the first Board of Edu- probably wouldn’t have known each concerts, plays.” So in that sense, life cation of Westhill decided to try to other. A 1964 Westhill graduate, seems like it might not have been form a school that included West- Ginnie Allen Russo said, “It wasn’t too different… except their danc- vale and Onondaga Hill students. really hard to transition because es didn’t consist of grinding and Thankfully we have a source we would have all been going on twerking. The dances consisted of

GC Features 2 Winter Glass even more inappropriate dancing at Tim Bunn explained that most Corridors the time; the twist, the swim and the people just knew how they were pony. At the time these dance move- expected to dress. He said, “’No ments were strikingly inappro- jeans allowed. I had to get a cou- priate. Imagine parents’ reactions ple pairs of chinos, which were the then to the dancing we have now! uniform of the day. Kids at West- Students in the 60s looked hill were very well dressed. Many and dressed very differently from of the guys wore very expensive students today. The hair was dif- mohair sweaters, shirts with ties, ferent, glasses were different, the that sort of thing.” Guys weren’t shoes were different, and the clothes allowed to wear jeans, and girls were… well, you know. The glasses weren’t allowed to wear any type often seen today are large, square, of pants. Girls often wore dress- dark rimmed glasses. These large es or nice skirts with a classic pair ray-ban-like glasses are often worn of clogs. Sally Conklin Siemoens today as fake glasses by people who claimed, “It was just ‘known’ what want to make a certain fashion you should and should not wear.” statement. Unfortunately the peo- In many ways, today’s way ple with actual vision problems are of life is far different from life in often mistaken as wannabe hipsters the 60s, especially in schools. The for wearing these glasses, even if first students of Westhill had a Most Likely to Succeed. they need them. In the 60s, if people much different high school ex- couldn’t see well they had to wear perience, from clubs to outfit glasses because contacts weren’t choices. Ginnie Allen Russo’s re- around yet. The most common sponse to the reunion coming up glasses style was the cat eye. The was, “Where did these 50 years typical hairstyle wasn’t pin straight go . . . that same question will like it is today. Most girls either be yours sooner than you think!?” had a flip or a bubble. Hair for the The class of 1964 is in for a big sur- boys wasn’t too different. In West- prise when they step foot into West- The “bubble.” The “flip.” hill there was no written dress code. hill 50 years after their graduation.

Glass Corridors Staff Journalists: Kayla Wild Ashley Rocker Emily Kessler Samantha Peebles Amanda Morrissey Bianca Surrey Emily Washburn Advisor: Ms. Brown Editor: Elizabeth Klink

12.2013 3 GC Features Glass Corridors A MILE DOWN THE ROAD BY SAM PEEBLES

Every year er bubble?” Ac- around this time, cording to an ar- students at Westhill ticle written by are asked to donate Paul Reide from clothes, food, money, the Post Stan- and other household dard in 1997, items. But do these when it comes students know the im- to Westhill, it is pact they’re making? well known that When Westhill spon- the students sors donations, such as are able to get a the St. Lucy’s food drive, students income of around $67,564 and good education in a safe learning are generally bribed with some- a median household income of environment. Not only is West- thing like “free breakfast” for the $60,008 own the households sur- hill a safe school, but also the class that collects the most items, rounding Westhill. This includes average graduation rate is 98%, which really drives students to all ages; however, adults ages and 95% of Westhill graduates want to donate as much as pos- 45-54 living in Westvale have the attend college. However, Fowler, sible. Of course, who doesn’t love highest annual household income along with the other city schools a friendly competition, but there of $77,341. in Central New York, have sig- is more to these donations that The areas surrounding St. most students really don’t under- Lucy’s church also include the than most. The average gradua- stand. city school, George Fowler High tionnificantly rate atlower George graduation Fowler ratesHigh Just 2.5 miles down the School, which is just 1.76 miles School is 48%, which is one of--if road, where St. Lucy’s food pantry down the road from Westhill High not the--lowest graduation rates is located, is one of the poorest School. The households surround- in Central New York. areas in the country. Within the ing this part of Syracuse have an The students of Fowler short distance between the Near average annual household income do not complain about the edu- Westside Syracuse and the areas of $27,823 and a median house- cation they get, but rather what around Westhill, there is a huge hold income of $20,584. Just like happens in the neighborhoods difference in demographics. From in Westvale, the adults ages 45- outside of school (Riede). Most education, to annual household 54 living in Near West Side Syra- kids are not safe walking through income, these two areas live in cuse make the most money with the streets surrounding Fowler very different worlds. an annual household income of High School. These streets are One of the major differ- $24,293. Money is a big difference full of “weed spots,” above aver- ences that separate these two that sets these two areas apart. age crime rates, and above aver- areas is the annual household in- Education is a big deal for age rape risk. With some of the come. According to the website students living in the ‘Westhill highest crime statistics in Amer- Point 2 Homes - bubble’, but how big of a deal is it ica, these neighbors of Westhill ilies with an average household for students living in the “Fowl- do not have the same American , fairly affluent fam

GC Features 4 Winter Glass Corridors A MILE DOWN THE ROAD CONT . . .

high school experience as most suburban students across the country. The two neighbors of Westhill and Fowler are separated by numerous factors, such as education, street safety, and income. Questions & Featuring Leslie Dubeil from the St. Lucy’s food pantry

Answers: Leslie Dubiel works with the St. Lucy’s food pantry. She came in to speak to several social studies classes to educate Westhill students about what the pantry actually does, and the difference we are able to make to these “neighbors” of ours living in poverty. Dubeil stated, “St. Lucy’s is located literally 2.5 miles away, literally a 7 minute drive from here and it is a different world down there.”

Q: What impact does Westhill have on the pantry each year when we do this food drive?

A: “Each year, the minute I walk in the door and see the donations made by Westhill, it just takes my breath away to see all of the generous donations made. You guys do a great job every year and every donation helps.”

Q: What are the neighborhoods like Q: How does the system of the food around these areas? pantry work?

A: “Around these areas, it is not uncommon for A: “When the families come to the food pantry, they mothers to worry about their kids getting jumped or are asked to bring ID of each person living and their shot, and of course here, mothers never worry house, and a piece of mail so they can prove that they about things like that. When it comes to crime and live on one of the thirty streets surrounding the pan- violence in these neighborhoods, it is so common try. The amount of food given to the families is based that sometimes, the cops don’t even bother showing on the size of the family.” up. In one case, a woman was beaten by a man (in her family) with a bat, and she came to the food pantry looking beat up. We called the cops immedi- YOU can make ately, but they never showed up. It’s sad because in neighborhoods like Westvale, if anything like that a difference ever happened, it would be on the front page of the newspaper the very next day, and all over the news.” Donate to St Lucy’s food pantry today

12.2013 5 GC Features Glass Corridors

Tips of Midterm By Emily Washburn Studying

Ways to Make Sure You Are Successful

As the halfway mark of the school year approaches, teachers begin to talk about those dreadful midterms! Being aware of the midterm schedule in these upcoming weeks is vital because specific classes are required to give these tests. As students, the studying process does not always come easily. So in order to feel prepared for these exams, students need to learn how to study properly instead of just reading over their notes. There have been various studies done in order to find the most effective methods of studying. Here are a few to help you get the ball rolling:

Proven Most Effective: √ 1. Practice Testing *By doing practice tests, you can learn the material instead of just reading it out of your notes. It stimulates the brain by making one think and pull information from memory. √ 2. Implement Study Schedule Over Time *Budgeting studying over a period of time helps to avoid last minute cramming. *Don’t study for hours at a time. Rather study for approximately 20 minutes, take a break, and then come back. This helps improve focus and material retention. √3. Interleaved Practice Strategies *Interleaved practice is when you mix up the order of the material when reviewing. For example, if studying for chemistry, do a periodic table problem followed by a factor label problem. Other Suggested Tips: √ 1. Find a Productive Study Space/Put away Phones & Electronics *Find a quiet space away from distractions. This will help keep from the usual distractions. √ 2. Don’t Study Material You Already Know! *This takes away from studying the material you don’t know. If you know it well, skip it! √ 3. STAY I.A!!!!! *Nobody knows better than the teacher what’s going to be on the exam. Staying for extra help will force you to study and you can ask the teacher any questions you might have. √ 4. Make Flashcards *By making the cards, you are studying because you are hand writing the information on the cards. When put- ting the definitions/descriptions on the back, summarize in your own words to ensure understanding. √5. Create Study Groups *Some people work best with other people. A study group would give you the opportunity to learn through oth- ers and their strategies.

GC Features 6 Winter Glass Corridors HOW TO HANDLE A...

By Sam Peebles Both girls and boys have a tough time dealing with break BREAK ups. But most people handle UP it the wrong way, which let’s face it, only makes the situation more awkward. Here are some tips on how to handle break ups the right way. 1. Cut off all ties with your ex It is absolutely unacceptable to text, call, or make plans with your ex after breaking up, ESPECIALLY if they break up with you. Talking to this Sam’s Advice to the person only makes it harder on you, and it makes it seem like you are com- Lovelorn: pletely over him, which will make him wonder what you’re doing. Associat- ing with this person will automatically make him believe you are still his and no one else can have you. 2. Delete everything Delete everything and anything that reminds you of that person. Chances are, when you’re alone and looking through your phone, you will see endless pictures together, texts, voicemails, etc.; deleting everything will erase the memories that you want to forget. If she tries to send you things, delete it. When in doubt, delete. “Psychology Today” states that stalking her on social media is a waste of time that will only make you feel worse. It is a fact that this “stalking obsession” can make the temporary depression worse. If you’re really that tempted to stalk her, then block her. Oh yeah, and don’t snapchat her and claim you sent it to the “wrong person” or to a large group of people. Just delete her. 3. If you see him in public, RUN When seeing that person in public, your natural instinct would be to go up to him. WRONG. It’s obvious that going up to him would create an awkward environment, where even the people around you would start to feel uncomfortable. The best way to handle a situation like this would be to walk by and pretend you didn’t see him. 4. Don’t be THAT crazy ex after a breakup The worst possible thing to do after a break up that a lot of people do would be trying to make that person jealous by finding someone new. Devel- oping feelings for someone new and going after her after a break up is fine, but don’t be that person who uses someone else just to make her jealous.

5. Avoid “Drake nights” For some reason, Drake is the perfect artist to listen to after a break up. “Drake nights” consist of sitting in your house alone, listening to break up songs by Drake, and tweeting all of his song lyrics while getting “dep” and thinking of that person. Just don’t do it. If this becomes a regular thing, getting over this person will be nearly impossible. An easy way to avoid nights like these would be to hang out with people so you can’t be alone. 12.2013 7 GC Features Glass Corridors

School Work or Snow Day??? By Kayla Wild We all know on random week days in the winter the conditions can be so bad that students are praying for a snow day. This leads to twitter blowing up more than ever. At this point, the Weather Channel is unnecessary because everyone is tweeting non-stop. Do we get a snow day or not, that is the biggest question in the Westhill community. Are we ever going to get a snow day?

The well respected superintendent Mr. Barduhn makes the call when it comes to snow days. Road conditions are reported early in the morning around 4:00-5:00 A.M, and the main decision is (made around 6:00A.M). The decision is based on how much accumulation of snow is occurring between those times in the morning. Three snow days are built into the Westhill calender. While interviewing Mr. Barduhn, I asked him if there are any chances that we will get a snow day under his leadership and he said the chances are pretty high! As heard in the halls and as seen on everyone’s twitter, Westhill is the only school that never gets snow days. It often seems that all the neighboring schools are closed and we are still open. However, Mr. Barduhn stated that if West Genesee closes, there is a good chance that we will close because we do share the same routes and roads. Mr. Barduhn says that he has closed other schools such as Mount Markham and Romulus for snow days. How to get a snow day!!!!! To get a snow day you must do all of the following!!!!!!!!!!!!!: 1. Put your pajamas on inside out and backwards. 2. Brush your teeth with the opposite hand. 3. Flush at least six ice cubes down the toilet (cubes not crushed!). 4. Sleep with a spoon under your pillow. 5. DO A SNOW DANCE!

Things to do when you get the snow day!!!! 1. Go ice skating downtown. 2. Build a blanket, pillow, and sheet fort. 3. Go sledding. 4. Make your favorite holiday cookie or the no bake cookies that are less of a hassle. 5. Watch Elf, National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, The Santa Clause,, The Grinch Who Stole Christmas and other marvelous winter movies. 6. Have a snowball fight. 7. Build a snow fort. 8. Build a snowman with awesome accessories. 9. Create an icy igloo.

GC Features 8 Winter Glass Corridors Homemade Hershey’s Hot Chocolate! Ingredients 3/4 teaspoon vanilla extract 4 cups (1 qt.) milk 1/3 cup hot water Dash salt 1/4 cup HERSHEY’S cocoa Miniature marshmallows Whipped cream (optional) 1/2 cup sugar

Directions Stir together sugar, cocoa and salt in medium saucepan; stir in water. Cook over medium heat, stir- ring constantly, until mixture comes to a boil. Boil and stir 2 minutes. Add milk; stirring constantly, heat to serving temperature. Do Not Boil. Remove from heat; add vanilla. Beat with rotary beater or whisk until foamy. Serve topped with marshmallows or whipped cream, if desired.

Peanut Butter NO BAKE cookies! Ingredients 2 cups sugar 4 tablespoons cocoa 1 stick butter 1/2 cup milk 1 cup peanut butter 1 tablespoon vanilla 3 cups oatmeal Waxed paper

Directions In a heavy saucepanl combine the sugar, cocoa, butter and milk and bring to a boi. Let boil for 1 minute then add peanut butter, vanilla and oatmeal. On a sheet of waxed paper, drop mixture by the teaspoonfuls, until cooled and hardened.

12.2013 9 GC Features Glass Corridors Trends of Our Day By Ashley Rocker Today there are so many trends coming back into style, new and improved. However there are also many new modern trends these days. The following are well- known trends that run rampant within the walls of Westhill. Twitter Slang Twitter is widely trending in the If you are talking and nobody un- teenage cyber world. However, if derstands you because your sen- you’re not tweeting the typical tences don’t make sense… just stop. “basic girl” tweets and trends, then U.O.E.N.O. IT? Doe? Vurt? If you you’re not doing it right. In order say these words outside of Westhill, to follow this modern day trend you just sound like a babbling fool. correctly, you MUST tweet every single national trend- especially the important ones like #national monsterday.

Those you’ll remember. . . Instagram Being a Hipster The deal with instagram is similar If you do not walk the halls of West- to twitter. Unless you are posting hill looking exactly like everybody “artsy” and completely edited pic- else, then you need to start shop- tures of your Starbucks coffee then ping at Urban Outfitters. While you might as well not have one. you are there, don’t forget to pick Also, if you go out with friends and up your fake glasses, beanie hat, do not instagram a picture, did it satchel, and flannel so you can be really happen? hipster like everyone else.

GC Features 10 Winter Glass Corridors

Snapchat Cradle Robbing In order to use snapchat correct- Senior boys have always had an ly, you have to be in a public place obsession with freshman girls. And making strange unattractive faces. it is definitely not a secret. We can And if you are blowing up people’s all see that your best friends on snapchats just to become their best snapchat are the freshman ladies friend, then you should re-priori- and that they are “monsterizing” tize your time. you. Whatever that means.

. . .and those you’ll regret Body Art P.D.A. Who doesn’t have their ears pierced If you are walking in the halls with anymore? Oh, and don’t forget your boyfriend/girlfriend and you your ear cuffs! Piercings and tat- are interlocking fingers, arms, lips toos are becoming the new in. Sud- and every other body part possi- denly, if you aren’t putting holes in ble, then you are Westhill’s public your head or body then you are not display of affection. As witnesses of cool. We will see how cool they are your P.D.A., we understand that when you’re 40 years old with gap- you “love” each other and we do not ing holes in your ears and wrinkled need or want to see it in the halls. tattoos.

All photos courtesy of Flickr 12.2013 11 GC Features Glass Corridors Gift Giving on a Budget By Amanda Morrissey With more holidays approaching (Valentine’s Day, Easter, Mother’s and Father’s Days), funds are running low after the dreaded Christmas shopping. You look in your wallet, thinking about how to divvy up the last few dollars you have to give your loved ones. With $4.26 to your name, your mind is reeling on how on earth you are going to be able to buy gifts for your family. Have no fear; here are somewhat tasteful and inexpensive gifts for all.

Decorations: 1 Photo Frame: If I were a mom, I don’t know what I’d love more than a homemade photo frame. Pop her Facebook pro- file picture into a gently used frame and wrap it up in some news- paper.

Painted Rocks: A timeless tradition, dating back to an- cient China, can brighten up anyone’s somber holiday. Go out to your backyard and scrape some dirt/snow off those rocks and head on over to Michael’s craft store for some cheap paint. Bo- nus points if you make your own paint.

Dreamcatcher: Think back to Walberta and Cherry Road when the creepy man came into each classroom and taught you how to make the Native American dreamcatchers. If they say, “What is this?” tell your younger sister that it’s going to get that boy to like her and there’ll be no pesky questions.

Homemade Pillows: Have one of those old pillows that no one uses? Reuse it by wrapping it in an equally old pillow- case. Or if you want to splurge a little, pick up a funky and very cheap pillowcase at Target.

GC Features 12 Winter Glass Corridors Jewelry/Clothing: 2 Rubber Band Bracelets: Woo Mrs. Lowe in the main office to give you some plain rubber bands and tie those puppies together. Trick is to make as many as you can before you get caught. Dip-Dye them in food coloring if you are feeling fancy.

Earrings: Try to picture some of your mom’s clothes or Aunt Mildred’s necklace and match some homemade earrings to it. Almost anything can be used as earrings. Ask dad for some wire and you’ll be golden.

Winter Apparel: Dig through the place where your family keeps their hats, scarves and gloves and find that ratty pair from childhood. Cut off the tips and refurbish them a little. Wrap them up for your little cousin.

Food: Chocolate Drizzled Popcorn: It’s super delicious and easy to make. Melt chocolate 3 chips in a pan and then drizzle it over the popped popcorn. It’s so simple that you can catch up on The Walking Dead while doing it.

Pie: Pumpkin, apple, or Boston cream, whichever your dad’s favorite is, bake it with in- gredients from your cupboard and a little bit of love or a little bit of annoyance. Whatever floats your boat.

Chocolates: A delicious treat, good for anytime of the year, especially on Valentine’s Day. Refer to the Food Network for a recipe that will make your mouth water.

If you do not have any money at all, make up some coupons for back massages, chores and other things you can do for free.

12.2013 13 GC Features Glass Corridors

The definition of a prison or jail is a facility in Jail vs School-- which individuals are forcibly confined and de- nied a variety of freedoms under the authority Same thing? of the state as a form of punishment. Does this sound similar to a school system? By Emily Kessler In jail, prisoners are required to follow a schedule and they can get pun- Schedule ished for disobeying it. High school students are also forced to follow a schedule and if they “skip” any classes or disobey their schedule, they also get in trouble. The prisoners’ schedule is as follows: Prisoners are forced to wake up at 6:00 am to be prepared for work at 7:30- 8:00 A.M. Most students here at Westhill also wake up around 6:00 A.M. to be prepared for school at 7:40. What a weird coincidence. After prisoners are done with their work at 11:00 A.M., they are confined to a 30-minute lunch. Our school lunches are also 30 minutes long. After their lunch, they are required to go back to work until 3:00 P.M. From 3:00-4:00 P.M. pris- oners are off duty and allowed to have “free time.” Schools normally end around 2-3 P.M., which starts our free time at home away from school. When being put in jail or prison, jailers read a long list of rules to inmates and if they don’t follow them, they are punished. One R rule prisoners must follow is eating at meal times, and only at meal times. Teachers do not allow students to eat in classrooms, only in the cafeteria. Although that rule may be broken many U times by many students, it is still a rule that is enforced that is the exact rule enforced in prison. Another rule that is enforced in L prison is prisoners are allowed 5 minutes in the lavatory. Here at Westhill, many students are not even allowed to go to the bath- room. Many teachers tell students no when they ask to go, so- E prisoners seem to have a rule advantage over students. S In jail, prisoners are fed “prison food.” Prison food is low salt, low sugar,and limits on both number of calories and calories from fat. For jails to monitor this, they portion control bread, desserts, and more desirable fruits and vegetables. If inmates want junk food it is available, but they must buy.

School lunches are the exact same thing. Salt was taken out of the cafeteria two to three years ago to implement “healthy lunches.” The school lunch system now offers baked chips, granola bars and an ABUNDANCE of fruit that you must be take when buying your full lunch. At school if you are interested in buying junk food such as cookies, chips or sugary cereal bars, it is more expensive. The jail lunches and the Food school lunches have many similarities--maybe too many similarities. GC Opinion 14 Winter Glass Corridors Music Lessons

Helpful or Hurtful? By Emily Washburn

Once a week, band and tions instead of teaching themselves a poor grade in this portion of the chorus students are required to for homework. Also, due to larger class. On top of this, many students attend a lesson during a sched- class sizes, in I.A teachers might have learned their parts during their uled period. The purpose of not be able to provide individual regular class. so it is unnecessary to these lessons is for students instruction because there are many pull these students out of another to have more time to learn students they have to tend to during subject in order to go over music their parts outside of class. that period. Therefore, band/cho- they already know. Each student receives a grade rus students are losing valuable class Now some might argue that based on attendance and par- time. all subjects should be treated the ticipation during each lesson. Both chorus and band are same, and students who don’t agree But are these really as help- one-credit classes. So, just like all shouldn’t take the class. But many ful as they are designed to be? of the core classes, students attend students throughout Westhill High All across the school, these classes on a daily basis. Is it School find chorus or band to be students are carrying heavy educationally sound to take a stu- their favorite part of the school day. workloads and are working dai- dent out of a core class even though These individuals work hard in class ly to achieve the best grades they they have this music class the same and have a passion for music. Un- can. Each day, teachers cover amount as these classes? Students fortunately, due to the hassle of les- a large amount of curriculum don’t get to leave music to go to a sons, students opt out of these class- due to limited time during the math or English class to learn the es course of the year. With this material. This puts students in a As the year presses on, stu- said, missing one day of class tough position. Many end up not dents continue to be affected by results in a decent amount of going to their lessons because they these lessons. Between missing les- work to make up. And in class, do not want to miss class, they have sons and missing classes, students it is easier to learn the material a quiz or test or they are too nervous struggle to find a balance. With this because students can interact to ask their teachers. As a result of said, the question of whether these with the teacher and ask ques- not attending lessons, they receive lessons are worth it remains.

12.2013 15 Opinion Glass Corridors The Olympic Games By Emily Kessler

The Olympic games are one of the most watched sporting events in the world. The Olympics have a very long past. They started in Athens in 1896. The last modern Olympics was held in London in 2012 and were only cancelled twice due to World War I and World War II. The Olympics have traveled from city to city including Lake Placid, Rome, Mexico, Sydney and many other cities. This year, the Winter Olympics will be held in Sochi, Russia, from February 7th to February 23rd. This years events include curling, ice hockey, bobsleigh, luge, ice skating, skiing and biathlon. 1. Skiing Skiing is an Olympic favorite. There are five skiing events and one snowboarding event in the Olympics. These events are alpine skiing, cross country skiing, ski jumping, Nordic combined and freestyle skiing. Alpine skiing, also known as downhill skiing, is the longest skiing event which includes 5 events for both men and women. These events are alpine, downhill, giant slalom, slalom and super-G. Cross country skiing has 12 different skiing events which are 15km (men), 10km (women) 4x10 km relay men, 30 km women, 50 km men, 4x5 relay women, com- bined 15 + 15km mass start men, combined 7.5 + 7.5km mass start women, sprint 1.5km for both men and women and the team sprint for both men and women. The most popular event is the 15km for men and the 10km for women. Ski jumping is an event that has three events for men and one event for women. These events are the K12o individual (men) k120 team (men) K90 individual (men) and the K90 individual for women. Nordic combined is an event that combines ski jumping and cross country skiing that is only for men. There are three events in this category: individual ski jumping K90, sprint K120, and the team 4x5km. Freestyle skiing is an event where skiers show off their skills by doing jumps, twists, banks, rolls and many more stunts. Snowboarding is also for men and women in and includes five events. These events are giant parallel slalom, half-pipe, parallel slalom, slope style, and snowboard cross. 2. Luge 3.Bobsleigh Luge is an Olympic event that was (sled) not introduced until 1964. Many Bobsleigh was invented by the Swiss viewers are unaware that Luge is in the late 1860’s However, it was not an actual event. Luge is an event introduced to the Olympic games that is very similar to the bobsled, until 1924. In the event of a two-per- except two athletes lay down on a son bobsled, the teams have a brake- special sled (called a Kufen) that man and a pilot. The two-person is uncovered and has no brakes; bobsledding event is in fact the only these participants are not protect- bobsledding event for women. In the ed if they make an error. There are four person event, one crewman and one pusher are added plus to brake- two events in the Luge: singles for man and pilot. The skeleton bobsledding event is a one-person event that men and women and the mixed takes place on the same “run” as the bobsleigh. In this event competitors event doubles event. steer the sled with their body and try to get the fastest time.

GC Sports 16 Winter Glass Corridors 4.Figure Skat- 5.Curling ing Curling originated in the 16th century in Scotland. Curling is a team sport Figure Skating is the oldest sport in for both men and women that consists of four players. These players com- the Winter Olympic Games. It was pete in 10 team events in which they have to deliver a 44 pound stone first introduced in the 1908 Lon- through concentric circles and try to get the stone the closest they can to don games and is one of the view- the center. The “lead” of the team throws first, followed by the “second,” ers’ favorite events. There are three third and the skip, which is also known as the captain of the team. In the skating events that each have their Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympics mens curling events, Canada won the own category. In ice skating, there gold, followed by Norway receiving the silver and Switzerland receiving the is individual figure skating for both bronze. In the womens events, Sweden received the gold, Canada received men and women, along with ice the silver and The Peoples Republic of China received the bronze medal. dancing mixed and pairs mixed. Pairs mixed is also among the view- 6. Biathalon ers’ favorite to watch with the mix- Biathalon is an Olympic event that has ten events for both women and ture of jumps, spins and lifts. Speed men. Biathalon is the combination of skiing and shooting and scored skating, another skating event, has by time. Competitors stop twice and must hit five targets with five bul- six events for both men and wom- lets. For each target missed, athletes en. These events are the 10000m, must take a 150m penalty lap, and the 1000m, 1500m, 5000m, 500m and top 60 move on. team pursuit for both men and women. In this event participants In the biathlon event, men participate strive to receive the fastest time. in the 10k, 12.5k pursuit, 15k mass Lastly, there is the short track speed start, 20km, and the 4x7.5km relay. skating, which has four events for Women participate in the 10k pur- both men and women. The 1000m, suit, 12.5km mass start, 15km, 4x6km 1500m, 5000 relay men/ 3000 relay relay, and the 7.5km. men, and the 500m. In this event, participants also strive to receive the fastest time, but the ice track is shorter.

7.Ice Hockey Ice Hockey is a popular sport fans love to watch during the winter Olympics. In the Vancouver 2010 Olympics, Canada won the gold, USA trailed behind winning the silver and Finland won the bronze. The womens ice hockey team received the same rankings with Canada receiving the gold, USA receiving the silver and Finland receiving the bronze. Ice Hockey originated in Canada in the early 19th century. In the Olympics both men and women have teams that participate. The teams for men participating this year are Canada, USA, Finland, Russia, Sweden, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Switzerland, Austria, Slovenia, Latvia and Norway; for women, Canada, Finland, Switzerland, USA, Russia, Sweden, Germany and Japan are the participating teams.

11.2013 17 GC Sports Glass Corridors Holiday Movie Match By Emily Washburn

Directions: The holiday season is approaching! See how well you know your holiday movies by matching the movie titles to their corresponding quotes below!

A. “The best way to spread Christmas 1. It’s A Wonderful Life cheer is singing loud for all to hear.”

2. The Santa Clause B. “This is my house, I have to defend it.” C. “Strange, isn’t it? Each man’s life 3. Christmas Vacation touches so many other lives. When he isn’t around he leaves an awful hole, doesn’t he?” 4. The Polar Express D. “I realized that Christmas is…the time to be with people you love.” 5. A Christmas Carol E. “I’m cute! I’m cuuuuuute!”

6. Elf F. “I don’t know what to say, except it’s Christmas and we’re all in misery.”

7. The Year Without A Santa G. “WHAT? SNOW IN THE SOUTH?” Clause H. “Seeing is believing, but sometimes the most real things in the world are 8. Love Actually the things we can’t see.”

9. Rudolph I. “God bless us, everyone one!” J. “I don’t know what’s happening to you. You’re starting to look like the

10. Home Alone Pillsbury Doughboy.”

#7 = G #8= D #9 = E #10 = B = #10 E = #9 D #8= G = #7

#2 = J #3 = F #4 = H #5 = I #6 = A = #6 I = #5 H = #4 F = #3 J = #2 C = #1 KEY:

GC Entertainment 18 Winter 1. What sport do you play? Delaney Martin I play varsity volleyball, basketball and lacrosse. 2. Who or what inspired you to start playing? My dad is a varsity coach and ever since I was little I would go to all of his practices and games. Being with all the older kids inspired me to start playing. Many of my family members were (and are ) student athletes and they all inspired me. 3. What is your pre-game ritual? Doing a pre-game “secret” dance with Nichole Pullano before our pre-game talk. 4. What is the hardest part about being an athlete? Making every one happy. That includes my coaches, team- mates, family and friends. Also, balancing school work, practices and games is difficult. 5. Who is your biggest fan? My mom and dad are my biggest fans. They are always there for me no matter what. Also, my “little” sister is always there for me. 6. What is the best part about being a student athlete? I have my classmates and my teammates as friends on and off the court. 7. Do you plan on pursuing this sport in college? Yes, just not sure which sport! 8. What advice would you give to future student athletes? Work hard and give it your all no matter what in sports and school work. Just do it!

Warrior! Jared Ristoff 1. What sport do you play? Hockey ( the greatest sport in the world). 2. Who or what inspired you to start playing? My Grandpa inspired me to play because he used to bring me skating every day starting at the age of 3. 3. What is your pre-game ritual? Take a nap and send out a #gameday #FTB snapchat. 4. What is the hardest part about being an athlete? Time management. 5. Who is your biggest fan? My family. 6. What is the best part about being a student athlete? Listening to s_eccs reading out loud on the bus to away games. 7. Do you plan on pursuing this sport in college? Is Riff RAFF a real boy? 8. What advice would you give to future student athletes? Enjoy it, b/c b4 you know it, it’s over.

Page 19 1) What is your favorite activity at Westhill? Chandler Holiday Spirit Week! Loyd 2) What college do you plan on attending? University of Vermont. 3)What is your favorite Christmas movie? Elf, easily. 4) Is there anything you wish you had done in high school that you didn’t do? I’m pretty happy with what I’ve done. 5) What is your favorite winter activity? Definitely sledding! 6) What advice do you give to underclassmen? Stay focused and have fun. 7) What is your biggest problem with Westhill? The people who walk too slow in the halls. 8) Was there anything you learned at Westhill that will be useful for the rest of your life? Getting to know people better, while still being able to have fun and stay focused.Bobby Brians

SENIOR SPOTLIGHT

1) What is your favorite activity at Westhill? Beth Spirit Week or the talent show; I really get to express myself. 2) What college do you plan on attending? Killory I’m hoping to start at OCC and transfer to SCAD. 3)What is your favorite Christmas movie? A Year Without Santa. 4) Is there anything you wish you had done in high school that you didn’t do? I wish I did the plays and musicals. 5) What is your favorite winter activity? Dressing up like Jesus. 6) What advice do you give to underclassmen? Do whatever you want and don’t care about your social status. 7) What is your biggest problem with Westhill? The food. 8) Was there anything you learned at Westhill that will be useful for the rest of your life? I honestly don’t know.

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