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February, 2015 Volume XIV, Issue VII SPECIAL VALENTINE’S DAY EDITION What did the boy rabbit say to Sweet Laughs To the girl rabbit on Valentine's Day?

Inside this issue: Make Your Day - “Some bunny likes you!” If your aunt ran off to get mar- Pick up Lines 2 Do skunks celebrate Valentine's ried, What would you call her? ROSES ARE Day? - Sure, they are very scent - Aunt - Elope 3- -imental! RED Love Is In the Air What did the little girl sheep say What did one pickle say to the 7 to the little boy sheep on Valen- other? - "You mean a great dill tine’s Day? - “You are not So February Festivities 9 to me." Baaaaaaaaaaa-d Yourself!” VIOLETS ARE What did the paper clip say to What did the caveman give his 13 the magnet? - "I find you very Fun Zone wife on Valentine's Day? - Ughs BLUE attractive." and kisses! What did the bat say to his girl- Around School 14 What did the boy cat say to the friend? - "You are fun to hang GEHS IS THE girl cat on Valentine's Day? around with." Sports 16 - You are purrr-fect for me! What did the man with the bro- BEST AND ken leg say to his nurse? - "I What did the boy bee say to the Cupids Corner 18 have got a crutch on you!" girl bee on Valentine's Day? - THE You are bee- utiful! Will you bee What do you call a very small mine? valentine? - A valentiny! What did the elephant say to his What did one oar say to the oth- STUDENTS girlfriend? - "I love you a ton!" Special points of interest: er? - "Can I interest you in a little row-mance?" Do you have a date for Valentines day? - Yes, ARE TOO! Teacher Conferences— "Whale you be my Valentine?" February 14th. Thursday 2/12 and - "Dolphinately" (continues on page 7) Tuesday 2/17

4:00 to 7:30 Washington's Birth-

Presidents’ Day! day, also known as Teacher In-Service Presidents' Day, is a national holiday held on the third Monday of February. This patriotic day was originally started in 1885 to cele- Friday, February 13th brate both George Washington and Abraham Lincoln’s birthdays.

No School During that time period, there were two Presidents’ Days because Lincoln’s birthday was on February 12th but Washington’s was on February 22nd. The citizens found this somewhat

confusing, which is why in 1950 Congress made the official name to this holiday Presidents’ President’s Day Day, to celebrate all the president’s not just Washington and Lincoln. However, Americans did not accept it because they did not think all the presidents deserved recognition. Things changed Monday, February 16th in 1971 when the government declared the Uniform Monday Holiday Act, an attempt to create No School more 3-day weekends for the nation’s workers and Presidents’ Day was moved to February. Americans eventually learned to accept it. NO SCHOOL FEBRUARY 16TH. Page 2 February Festivities The Torch

Valentine’s Day Massacre—That Which Occurred in ‘29 February 14, 1929, five members of the North Side Gang, plus gang collaborators Reinhardt H. Schwimmer and John May, were lined up against the rear inside wall of the garage at 2122 North Clark Street, in the Lincoln Park neighborhood of Chicago's North Side, and executed. Two of the shooters were dressed as uniformed police officers, while the others wore suits, ties, overcoats and hats, according to witnesses who saw the "police" leading the other men at gunpoint out of the garage after the shooting. This shooting became known as the “Saint Valentine’s Day Massacre,” due to its date. This was a metaphorical message sent by notorious crime boss, Al Capone, to rival gangster Bugs Moran. Capone was boss of the South Side Italian Gang, and Moran was boss of the rival North Side Irish Gang. -Aaron Troknya

You look familiar, did we have a class together? I swear we had Pick Up Lines chemistry.

Pick up lines are hilarious, cheesy, and a great way to woo your Are you coffee? Because I like you a latte. Valentine, here are some of the cheesiest, funniest and cutest pick up lines that you can try. Are you Life Alert? Because I have fallen for you and I can not get up! If you were a booger, I would pick you first. Are you a library book? Because I have been checking you out. Do you have a bandaid? I scraped my knee falling for you. Let us make like fabric softener and snuggle. Do you have eleven protons? Because you are sodium fine. -compiled by Cat Towell and Shelby Press I lost my number, can I have yours?

Are you French? Because Eiffel for you.

Hey girl, feel my sweater.. You know what it is made of? Boy- friend material.

You must be a broom because you swept me off my feet.

Do you have a map? I keep getting lost in your eyes.

If you were a Transformer, you would be Optimus Fine.

I hope you know CPR, because you take my breath away.

If you were a triangle, you would be an acute one.

On a scale from one to America, how free are you tonight?

I think you are suffering from a lack of Vitamin Me.

You must be debt, because my interest in you is growing.

Are you the Hulk? Because you are smashing. Volume XIV, Issue VII Love is in the Air Page 3 LOVE’S TRUE FORM Since the dawn of time people have debated the meaning of love. Wars have been fought, riots have erupted, and people have died due to the ever-growing controversies concerning the baffling concept of love. Many also debate whether or not love is uncon- ditional, which entitles everyone the right to be loved, no matter who they are, or their background. Some races and religions be- lieve other races and religions are not worthy of love. Some people deny love and compassion to criminals, because of their mis- takes. There are so many different theories and opinions regarding love. There is not one sole meaning for love, love is defined by one’s personal beliefs and values, but should be unconditional. Many people cannot find the strength within themselves’ to love their self or others, but that does not mean they do not deserve to be loved. Love is not only shared by lovers and families, it can take many forms. Love could be a bond between an animal and its owner, or the light breeze drifting in the moonlight. Love can be passion, but not only the heart-throbbing, eager, and spellbinding kisses exchanged by star-crossed lovers, in romance novels. Passion can be a cause or ideal someone is willing to fight for or a sport or activity someone enjoys. Love is not fully understood; but it is not meant to be understood. Love is something bigger and better than ourselves; it is a force stronger than gravity. Love will never be comprehended, but also never questioned about its cunning power to influence lives. That is why people yearn for it as they do, it is an explicable experience that cannot be bought or packaged. It is a connection between the heart and soul that is impossible to mimic. Some people wait years for love to find them, and then give up hope that they will ever experience it. Others have lost love, and fear that its glistening spark will never return to their hearts again. This is not always true, love has a way of drifting with the wind, or following the riptide, it can end up any where sudden and abruptly. Even if it only stays for a short while, its impact on a person is endless. Love is more than cards and candy, more than a relationship, more than a feeling; love is an energy that will light lives for generations. -Staff Writer

Heartfelt Advise for the Unattached A Day for Companies to Make Money February is quite typical- for you.) Just because you Valentine’s Day, the day that some of us dread, and others absolute- ly seen as the month of love. do not have someone to ly love, but is this holiday really overrated? People use this day as a It is all because of Valen- give you chocolate, does not romantic excuse to do something nice for their significant other, but if you tine's Day. Couples and/or mean you can not give it to truly cared for the significant other, would you not try to do nice and people in love come togeth- yourself. (Please ignore this romantic things for them all the time? Corporate companies see this day er to take the chance to be tip if you are, in fact, aller- as a day to make money, to build their corporation to catch sorry saps in with their loved ones. Some gic to chocolate.) their trap, spending hundreds on materialistic things to show their loved people might even use this ones that they care. In reality, what amount of “stuff” is going to save Watch Netflix! Endless (well, time to be with their friends. your relationship from going downhill? Whether you are single, do I am sure there is an end..) not have friends, or just got amounts of selections that Valentine’s Day is what should be called a corporate holiday, because ditched by your significant are not romance that you it is only a holiday for the big companies that give people more excuses other; here are some ways can drown your lonely sor- to buy the usual stuffed animals, chocolate, and flowers. Holidays like to survive this lovely holiday: row in. Although, if you do this are well over-commercialized and have had no significant impact on not have Netflix then it stinks our society as a whole. When was the last time you saw Martin Luther Avoid ABC Family and the to be you. King Jr. Day all over televisions and stores? Or what about Memorial Hallmark Channel (unless Day or even Veteran’s Day? People and Companies spend too much Read a book. There is noth- you want to watch unbeliev- time worrying about insignificant matters that people can do every day ing better than reading a able fairy tale romances in of their life. envy or disgust). book by the window when you are alone on Valentine's The moral of the story here, why focus so much time and money on a Make/Buy some chocolate! Day. holiday that we could celebrate whenever we wanted? Yes Valentine’s (Or have your mother buy it - Minh Nugyen Day is overrated, it is one for the companies and the suckers. - Adrian Avendano Page 4 Love is in the Air The Torch

Find as many words as you can! You can go up, down, and diagonally. Every word must be at least 3 letters long. You may use plural words if possible, but no prop- What a “sweet” game! er names. For a 3 letter word = 1 point, 4 letter word = 2 points, 5 letter word = 3 points, and so on. Also, you score an extra 2 points for every Valentine’s Day word you find! Make sure you write down the words you find under “Word List,” and add up your points! Turn in this sheet of paper to Mrs. Lach in room 439, and whoever earned the most points will win a BIG box of chocolates! Good luck!

WORD LIST

TOP TEN ROMANTIC MOVIES 6. “ The Wedding Singer” is a story about a wedding singer who falls in love with a young waitress, who has chosen the wrong person 1. “Titanic” is a story of a young artist that travels upon the great to marry. Titantic and falls in love with a rich girl along the way. 7. “ Sweet Home Alabama” is a story of a fashion designer in New 2. “Fault In Our Stars” is about a cancer patient who meets a for- York that travels South to get her husband to sign the divorce pa- mer patient during a support group, they share books, stories and pers, but instead she finds something more. find love and stability together. 8. “Sixteen Candles” is a comedy about a young girl whose family 3. “Princess Bride” is a story of a young man who fights to save and forgets her birthday and chronicles her wacky day. find the love of his life before a horrid prince takes her for his wife. 9. “A Walk To Remember” a prank gone wrong makes a popular 4. “Romeo and Juliet” is the tragic story, adapted from the famous senior enter in the school play as the lead but he falls in love along Shakespeare play about two star crossed lovers from two rivaling the way. families and how they fight for their love. 10. “The Notebook” a poor man finds love in a rich women and 5. “Jerry Maguire” is a story of a successful sports agent and he makes her feel free and social differences drive them apart. questions his purpose and is trying to find his way. -compiled by Austin Ashcraft Volume XIV, Issue VII Love is in the Air Page 5

St.Valentine For many centuries now, February 14th has been celebrated around the world as the day for romance, and this year will be no dif- ferent. But where did this holiday originate from? Well, it started with a man named St. Valentine. St. Valentine was a Roman holy priest, widely recognized for his martyrdom during the third century, when the Catholic Church was being persecuted by an emperor named Claudius the Second. Claudius outlawed the marriage of young people because he believed that young, unmarried soldiers fought better because they wouldn’t worry about the lives of their wives if they died in battle. St.Valentine, a Catholic, fought for the right for young people to be married, and in secrecy, he married people and soon after he was caught, imprisoned, and tortured for performing marriages. In jail, Valentine was said to have helped a Roman man named Aste- rius, whose daughter was born blind. Valentine was said to have helped heal the girl by praying for her condition to get better, and Asterius was convinced that Valentine’s praying had worked, so he converted to Catholicism. On February 14th, 269 AD. St. Valentine was sentenced to a three part execution, where he was beaten, stoned and decapitated because of being a Catholic. In a letter to Asterius’ daughter before his execution, Valentine signed it, “From your Valentine.” A popular phrase still used today. St.Valentine is widely known as the patron saint of lovers, happy marriage, young people and love. He was commemorated on February 14th. To- day, St. Valentine is widely known for his help marrying lovers, and that is why on February 14th, we celebrate Valentine’s Day. There is also another idea of the origin of Valentine’s Day; it is called A Pagan Festival in February, and celebrated on February 15th. It was a fertility festival called Lupercalia dedicated to Faunus, the Roman god of agriculture, as well as to the Roman founders Romulus and Remus. The festival of Lupercalia was then noticed as “un-Christian” at the end of the 5th century. It wasn’t until much lat- er that Valentine’s Day was recognized as a day for “love.” This was associated with the idea that the bird mating season started in mid-February. Although writing and giving out Valentine’s Day cards didn’t start until the 1400’s, the first Valentine ever recorded was in 1415 by Charles, the Duke of Orleans. No matter how Valentine’s Day began, it is now celebrated by the United Kingdom, Canada, Mexico, Australia, France, and of course the United States. February 14th was, is, and will forever be known as the day for romance. -Cat Towell

DID YOU KNOW? es. Juno was also the goddess of women and marriage.

- More than 1 billion Valentine’s Day cards are ex- - The rose is the symbol of love, but the flower symbol for February changed annually. actually is the violet.

- Over 50% of Valentine’s Day cards are purchased - According to one legend, Valentine's Day was inspired by Saint Valen- in the 2 days prior to the holiday itself. tine, a Roman saint who was executed on February 14th, 270 A.D. St. Valentine was killed for secretly marrying couples in defiance of an or- - There are 119 single men who are in their 20s for every 100 single der of the Roman emperor. The emperor had forbidden marriage after women of the same age group. Roman men began refusing conscription in order to stay home with their wives. - As of the mid 2000s, there are 904 dating service establishments, in- cluding online dating sites, that employee nearly 4,300 people and pull - Men spend, on average, $156.22 on Valentine’s Day gifts, flowers, and in around $489 million in revenues on average. cards.

- In 2011, Iran banned Valentine’s Day cards, gifts, and any other Valen- - The first heart-shaped box of candy was sold in 1868 by Richard Cad- tine related tokens as part of an Islamic Republic backlash against west- bury. ern culture. -The red rose was believed to be the favorite flower of Venus, the Ro- - Valentine’s Day was first introduced in Japan in 1936. man goddess of love and the mother of Cupid?

- A “True Love Knot” or “Endless Knot of Love” was a very popular -Over 50 million roses are given at Valentines Day each year. “Valentine” in England and the U.S. in the seventeenth century. -To be awoken by a kiss on Valentine’s Day is considered lucky. - Esther Howland, the woman who produced the first commercial Ameri- can valentines in the 1840s, sold a then mind-boggling $5,000 in cards -About 3% of pet owners will give Valentine Day gifts to their pets. her first year of business. - Compiled by Kevin Oliver and staff - Valentine’s Day originates from the ancient Roman festival of fertility, which was held annually on February 15th. The 14th of February was celebrated in honor of Juno, the queen of the Roman gods and goddess- Page 6 Love is in the Air The Torch

IS ST. VALENTINE’S DAY OVERRATED? NO YES February 14 is the one day out of What was once a holiday about love and affection is the year to celebrate the love between two peo- now a superficial celebration run by commercialism and ple, to recognize and to appreciate the relation- the business industry pressuring us to purchase gifts to ship you may share with someone else. A lot of “show our love” with pointless items we do not need nor people lose sight of how blessed they are to be happy and in a relationship with someone and they want. These items do not show love since it is now a lose attention of that special bond holding their social ritual to buy roses, chocolates, and cards where relationship together. Valentine’s Day comes they are now above and beyond cliché. Plus these gifts around once a year to help remind them and get are only guilt-ridden ways to show their “love” for an- their sight back on track of how lucky they are to other. There is enough pressure on today’s couples with- have found love. There are many people in this world that are out having to live up to an ideal romantic adventure on this one alone and full of love to give but have no one to give it to. Valen- day; and why only this one day? If couples truly loved each tines Day brings hope and inspiration to those souls looking for other should not they be practicing similar habits like this eve- someone to share their life with. ryday of their own volition and not because of an industry Valentine’s Day is not a day to celebrate the person you love, profiting holiday? Many think that a more appropriate day, if but to celebrate the love you have for that person. It is to recog- any single day, to buy futile gifts such as these should be on nize that of all the billions of people in the world, of all the places the couple’s anniversary, rather than a random day with no in the world, and all the moments flying by never to be recovered, significant meaning. Even most of those people believe that you, and that special other, are together, against all odds. couples should always say “I love you” and show their love for Many people believe that Valentine’s Day is overrated be- one another everyday, and not on a commercialized holiday. cause it is a “commercial holiday” that does not celebrate anything particularly of any special meaning and is used just for gift giving I personally agree with those believing that Valentine’s Day and more spending. While the gift giving is always nice, it is not is overrated. Valentine’s Day is a pointless holiday; especially necessary. You do not have to buy someone something to express since there are more single people in the world than couples, your love for them or to let them know how much they mean to so why have a holiday for the minority love group? How did a you. People simply resort to buying gifts because it is the easy and day dedicated to a true hero of love become a day run by simple way of doing so. Other people, who really recognize and embrace the love they have for someone, usually go that extra social media and commercialized industries? Valentine’s Day is mile and do something extremely thoughtful and from the heart. extremely overrated and should not be celebrated only to say “I love you” to your significant other. People should share these Many people say that you should show the person you love feelings with each other on a daily basis, and not buy senseless how much you care everyday, not just once a year. While I agree items to show your affection for another.• If people are going with this statement, I also feel that it is important to set one day aside, dedicated to celebrating one of the most controversial as- to buy gifts for their loved ones, shouldn’t they use gifts made pect of this world, love. On Valentine’s Day, you should dedicate from the heart anyway, and not cliché items such as chocolates the entire day to this feeling. Be thankful that you found it. Every- and flowers? Valentine’s Day is a nuisance that is glorified body wants love, or has at one point in their life, but not every only by the industrial tyrants of the world and should not be body is able to find it and keep a hold on it. celebrated. From personal experience, I know Valentine’s Day gives me -Torch Staff hope that someday I will be able to find that long awaited love that everyone wants and that I will be able to have a Valentine on the one day of a year dedicated to the most powerful force in the universe. I want to wish a happy Valen- tine’s Day to everyone, whether you are alone or not, remember, there is love out there, you just got to find it! Volume XIV, Issue VII Love is in the Air Page 7

CUPID’S ARROW Fun Facts About Valentines Day

Cupid is Everyone knows what Valentine’s Day is and what day it’s celebrated on, known to all but not everyone knows the long history and specific facts about modern as the symbol Valentine’s Day celebrations and festivities. Here are some fun facts about the of Love, and holiday celebrated worldwide on February 14th: coincides with St. Valen- -15% of U.S women buy flowers for themselves. tine’s Day, but do we -About 3% of pet owners will buy gifts for their pets on Valentine’s Day. know why or how he came -Over $1 billion will be spent on chocolate for Valentine’s Day in the U.S. to be? - Worldwide, over 50 million roses are given for Valentine's Day each year. Cupid, son of Venus and Mars, is the god of love in Roman Mythology. Cupid is derived -There was a belief in the middle Ages that the first unmarried person (of the from the Latin word, “cupido” which means opposite sex) you met on the morning of St. Valentine's Day would become “desire.” Some myths claim that Cupid hatched your spouse. from a silver egg. Cupid is often depicted as a baby with wings wearing nothing but a diaper, -Cupid, who is seemingly the mascot of Valentine’s Day, was the Roman god of equipped with a bow and a quiver of golden love. arrows. The tips of the arrows are heart- shaped. Cupid shoots these arrows at lonely or -Each year around 1 billion Valentine cards are sent. After Christmas, this is the unsuspecting people and when they hit, the single largest seasonal card-sending occasion. individual falls deeply in love with the next person they rest their eyes on. -Children between ages 6 to 10 give more than 650 million Valentine’s cards It seems quite obvious why Cupid is St. to their teachers, classmates, and family members. Valentine’s Day’s mascot, but there can be flaws to his method of love manipulation. What -2.2 million marriages take place in the United States annually. This means if Cupid were to shoot someone whose eyes there are approximately 6,000 marriages per day. rested upon a man or woman who was in any sort of relationship? Cupid has been known to Everyone here at The Torch would like to wish you a happy and safe Val- have split personalities. In addition to his gold- entine’s Day! -Torch Staff en arrows, Cupid carries lead-tipped arrows that cause its victims to succumb to hatred. Cupid may be known for creating Love, but the HA HA (continued from 1st page) fact that he is the one responsible for creating chaos should not be neglected. What did the boy squirrel say to the girl squirrel on Valentine’s Day? Cupid is always watching, ready to play “I’m nuts about you!” with any old heart that comes along. The next Boy 1: Why do melons have to get married in churches? time a friend says, “it is love at first sight,” edu- Boy 2: Why? cate them on the history of Cupid. Perhaps they were struck by his golden arrows. Boy 1: Because they cantaloupe! Boy: What happened to your leg? -Torch Staff Girl: I went to a seafood dance on Valentine’s Day. Boy: And? Girl: I pulled a mussel! What did the pancake say to the other pancake? I wuv you a WAFFLE lot! Page 8 February Thoughts The Torch

Jealousy Needs To Stop! Jealousy is so overrated. People tend to get jealous when show him she is yours and no one else’s. Now, if she is not yours they see their crush or love being flirted with or them even flirting then you need to show her that you are better than other guys with someone else. Why be jealous? If you’re lucky enough to and flirt with her before any other guy can. be in a relationship, then you have to reason to be jealous. Jealousy is nothing to be worried about. You just have to be Ladies, you see these little girls walking up to your man with confident and show how important you are. If you like someone their red cheeks, giggling and hitting him playfully? I know what then go get them! Stop being jealous when other people flirt with you are thinking: ‘That girl needs to get off my man before there them. Jealousy is overrated and needs to be stopped is an issue.’ Do not worry about it! What I say is just go up to your man and be like ‘so you met my boyfriend?’ ‘Is he not the - Torch Staff best?’ and smile at the girl nicely. Or if he is not your man, then make him your man! Maybe you should flirt with him before an- other girl can.

Guys, you see these big bulky guys with their athleticism flirt- ing with your woman? I know what you are thinking: ‘That dude needs to back off before he has to deal with me’ Forget about it! What I say to this is that you let that guy know that she is your girlfriend and not to flirt, maybe put your arm around her and

St. Valentine’s Day Around the World

Italy Originally, Italians celebrated Valentine’s Day as the Spring Festival. People gather outside in gardens and cafes to enjoy poetry readings and music before taking a stroll with their loved ones. Now a days on Valentine’s Day Italians prefer having romantic din- ners and exchanging gifts. Also, there is a tradition of giving chocolate to loved ones and Italians believe that in this case, size does matter - the bigger the chocolate, the stronger the love you will have.

France The French like to think of themselves as the most romantic people in the world, and it is often claimed that the first Valentine’s Day card originated in France when Charles, Duke of Orleans, sent letter to the love of his life while imprisoned in the Tower of London in 1415. Today card giving is not as popular as it used to be. Instead, the French love their own food, restaurants do really well on Feb- ruary 14, a day also considered the best time for a marriage proposal.

Finland and Estonia Valentine’s Day celebrations in Estonia/Finland have their own way of celebrating it. February 14 is called “Friend’s Day,” so single people do not feel left out. That means everyone is a winner thanks to nice presents given between friends and family members. That does not mean there is no romance: shops, restaurants and even streets are decorated with hearts and other symbols of love. On this day single people also get the chance to take a ride on a special “love bus” where they can meet others looking for love.

United States In the United States, Valentine’s Day is a major card- and gift-giving festival. This day is not a public holiday here. Offices, schools, stores and organizations are open as usual. Markets can be seen wearing a festive look and loaded with gifts to lure customers, days before the actual day arrives. Cards have been exchanged in the USA since the early 1700s. Some other popular gifts that are ex- changed on Valentine’s Day are fresh flowers, especially red roses, chocolates, candy baskets, candy boxes, lingerie and champagne or sparkling wine. Most of the candy boxes are heart-shaped and tied with red ribbons. Some people take a step ahead by giving big gifts such as jewelry, diamonds, etc.. -Michael Black Volume XIV, Issue VII February Festivities Page 9

Americans have recognized black history since 1926. Originally it was known as “Negro History Week’ and later changed to “Black History Month.” This tradition started almost before any black history had been studied, or even documented. Afri- can Americans have been in America since colonial times but it was not until the 20th century that a respectable presence was found in the history books. We owe the study of black history to Dr. Carter G. Woodson. His ancestral past was former slaves, and his childhood was spent in the Kentucky coal mines. He did not enroll in high school until age twenty, graduated in two years, and then received a Ph.D. from Harvard. Dr. Woodson was disturbed to find in his studies that history books for the most part ignored black American figures throughout history. He wanted that to change. Dr. Woodson wanted all Americans to know the contributions that were made by black Americans. He established the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History, he founded the journal of Negro History, and in 1926 he launched the Negro History Week to bring national attention to the contribution of black people throughout American history. Woodson chose February because it marks the birthdays of two men who greatly influenced the black American population. These men are Frederick Douglass and Abraham Lincoln. However, February has much more to show for its significance of black American history. Events such as: - February 23, 1868 – W.E.B. Dubois, civil rights leader and co-founder of the NAACP was born; - February 3, 1870 – The 15th Amendment was passed granting blacks the right to vote; - February 25, 1870 – the first black US Senator, Hiram R. Revels, took the oath of office; - February 12, 1909 – The National Association for the Advancement of Colored people (NAACP) was founded by a group of con- cerned black and white citizens in New York City; - February 1, 1960 – A civil rights movement milestone when a group of black N.C. college students began a sit-in at a segregated Woolworth’s lunch counter; and - February 21, 1965 – Malcolm X, the militant leader who promoted Black Nationalism was shot to death by three Black Muslims. From colonial times to the civil rights movement, many fell victim to racism and lost their lives to guarantee a better life for future generations- for our generation. We cannot allow ourselves to let all that suffering be for nothing; we choose to remember the month of February as black history month and celebrate the freedoms that everyone can now enjoy thanks to the courage of the heroic lead- ers of present and past generations. -Staff Writer

DATING IDEAS Do you need some date ideas for Valentines Day? Here are · Take popsicle sticks and write a bunch of date ideas and pull some that you should definitely keep in mind. one out when you are wanting to go out on a special night · Go out to dinner at a fancy restaurant downtown (Newport) , · Go out for coffee at his/her favorite coffee shop ex; Dick’s Last Resort, Cheesecake Factory, Dewey’s Pizza, Brio · Paintballing (this is a suggestion for the guys, plus it is a great Tuscan Grille, Mitchell’s Fish Market, and many others to choose time!) from. Being a girl myself, I have realized that the little things mean · Go to a movie or the drive in the most. It is the thought that counts. We do not need jewelry, · Go dancing clothes or other expensive things; a simple dozen roses is all it takes to make us happy. Hopefully these ideas will really help · Go to your favorite concert together (Make sure the guy pays for the ticket…) you out and you try them over this sweet holiday with your special someone! · Go to Fountain Square -Mikaela Bobb · Cook a meal for your date and surprise him/her · Take pictures together and make a photo album Page 10 Love is in the Air The Torch

HEARTS AND FLOWERS During Valentine’s Day, you usually get the gift of candy or flowers. The tradition of receiving candy started in elementary school when your friends would give out Valentine’s Day cards along with candy. The candy consists of “I LUV YOU, KISS ME, U R SO CUTE, and MARRY ME.” These candies are known as candy hearts. Candy heart making developed into an industry during the nineteenth century through the discovery of sugar beaches and the advances of mechanical appliances. Nothing melts a heart like chocolates on the 14th. Whether your other half likes milk chocolates, dark chocolates, nutty chocolates, or chocolate truffles, these Valentine’s Day sweet treats send a message of love. While Valentine’s Day chocolates may not last long, the loving gesture and memory of the giver's thoughtfulness will. The reason why we give out chocolate on Valentine’s Day is because chocolate has been associated with passion, romance and love since the time of the Aztecs. They believed that chocolate was a source of spiritual wisdom, incredible energy, and elevated sexual power. It was widely used at wedding ceremonies and today our chocolate is very different from theirs. The flowers consist of a big bouquet or a single flower. Roses are the most popular flower that you would get from your sweetie. A red rose means love, a white rose signifies worthiness, a yellow rose means friendship and a pink rose means happiness. The flow- ers also symbolize fertility, love, marriage and romance. The gift of flowers happened in the middle ages when marriage was severely prohibited. Lovers communicated for weeks and months through the gifting of flowers. Some believe that Valentine’s Day and the treats that go with it are just another “Hallmark” holiday. Yet others see it as a chance to start new relationships, rekindle old relationships, and to express their love for each other. We all love to receive candy and flow- ers on the 14th of February but we should give more out than we receive. -Staff Writer

Nerd Romance 101 Who would not want to flirt with a nerd? They are interesting, -Baby, you are oodiful. passionate and—um, interesting... And now that Valentine’s Day is approaching, it is a perfect time to attract that special nerd in Math/Science Pick Up Lines: your life. Here are the best nerdy pick-up lines that Tumblr had to offer! So go on, get out there, and woo the love of your Comic- -What is your sine? It must be Pi/2 because you are the one. Con centered life! -I wish I was Adenine, so I would be paired with U.

Harry Potter Pick Up Lines: -I want our love to be like Pi, irrational and never ending.

-If you were a Dementor, I would become a criminal just to get -You must be a carbon sample, I sure want to date you. your kiss. There you have it folks, any one of these lines are internet- -Did you survive Avada Kedavra? ‘Cause you are drop dead guaranteed to get you a Valentine. And hey, if you can not trust gorgeous! random people from the internet, then who can you trust? Good luck! And may the force (of romance) be with you! -Is your name Flitwick? ‘Cause you sure are charming. -Danielle Watkins -Your smile is like Expelliarmus, simple, yet disarming.

Doctor Who Pick Up Lines:

-Are you a weeping angel? ‘Cause I could stare at you all day.

-Hello, I am Captain Jack Harkness.

-You make both my hearts go wibbly wobbly. Volume XIV, Issue VII On the Emotional Side Page 11 STRESS RELIEF. . . Valentine’s Day is known as a day to celebrate love, be it with a significant other or even just the friends you have come to enjoy having, but it can also be a big source of stress. Here are some possible stressers to avoid:

1. People in relationships often worry about what to get their significant other for Valentine’s Day, especially if it is last minute and they have absolutely no money to spend.

2. Husbands might also be left scratching their heads when their wives say “No, we do not have to do anything.” wondering if it is likely a trap instead of an honest nonchalant attitude.

3. People who plan to cook for Valentine’s Day could very well find themselves panicking over the recipe or struggling to make it to their exact standards, and then praying that their significant other will enjoy it when the time comes.

4. Singles may either be rushing to find that certain someone or just not caring at all. Either way, more candy for them.

5. Stress can also come if certain expectations have failed to be met or even from disappointment on how the day turned out.

6. Another source of possible stress could be from trying to find reservations for that fancy restaurant you have had your eye on, only to find that it is packed and there is absolutely no way possible to treat your boyfriend/girlfriend to a romantic dinner.

7. Making plans that cost a lot of money, only to be dumped and have everything go to waste.

8. And of course there is the possible stress of everything going wrong, plans being wrecked, and potentially disgusting objects being dumped all over your significant other and ruining everything. Anxiety could strike at any moment should any minor thing go awry or something devious appears to muck up the entire day.

An easy way of coping with this stress is simple: just relax and enjoy the time spent with the people you care about. And treat yourself to ice cream. Ice cream always helps. - Jacob Klump

GIVE - Giving is a great way to show either a stranger or some- THE SEASON OF LOVE one less fortunate that you care. Help out at a homeless shelter or volunteer to become a child’s big brother or sister. Remember With the season of love falling upon us, it is easy to “feel the though to give it your all and do not hold back on handing out love,” but how do we show it? Here are some of the most common love. ways you can “show the love” this holiday. ENJOY - When someone has taken the time out of their day to do LISTEN - Many of us nowadays have perfected talking, we talk something nice for your benefit, do not be picky or selfish. Always like it is our job. Many of us talk too much, though, and have not remember to be thankful for what you have. Finally, always go stopped to listen. Becoming a person that anyone can talk to is out of your way to make sure someone knows how much you ap- someone everyone wants to be around. Also, remember that that preciate them. is a difference between just listening and hearing, so make sure that you actually understand what the person is saying to you TRUST (without wavering)-With the world we thrive in today, the instead of just being a present earlobe. news has us wondering who can be trusted and not. Trust is the one of the best gifts you can give someone. Unless they have not SPEAK - Many of us these days seem to speak just to argue or to earned it, do not give them the chance to not. As for vice versa, prove someone wrong. Instead of just speaking, how about you always be the person someone can trust, if you want to be trusted, start taking into account what the other one is saying. There is you must earn it. - Kayla Overbee always more than one side to an opinion and making someone else feel shameful about theirs is not the way to go about it. Page 12 Heartfelt News The Torch

THE PERFECT DATE Top Love Songs Valentines Day is typi- Go to the Conserv- cally the one time of the atory in Eden Park This Valentines Day surround yourself with happy melodies that remind you of your babe, year where couples want Devou Park to go all out and impress here is a hot list to get you started! (located in Coving- their significant other with ton, Ky) to see the Truly Madly Deeply - Savage Garden the perfect date. Some Cincinnati skyline people need help with Your Body is a Wonderland - John Mayer finding things to do to Go to a Cincinnati rub, etc.) make that perfect date Cyclones ice hockey game Happy Together - The Turtles Red/pink shirt and make that special Rent a limo and go out to Drops of Jupiter - Train someone feel amazing. dinner, movies, and drive Here are some places you around downtown For him can go and gifts you could Sugar - Maroon 5 buy for your loved one on Go to the Underground Cologne Railroad Freedom Center Love Story - Taylor Swift this special day. Box of chocolates Go to Mount Adams Cookies or other baked I Wanna Dance With Somebody - Whitney Go to Fountain Square goods Houston Dates Go to Coco Key/Great Custom M&M’s Every Little Thing - The Beatles Have a movie day at home Wolf Lodge Buy him tickets to a sport- (rent movies) with popcorn, Silly Love Songs - Paul McCartney and Wings candy, soda. Go to the Sky Galley Res- ing event taurant at Lunken Airport You’re Beautiful - James Blunt Make him/her dinner at Handmade Coupons (for home Go to the Nature Center ex: free hug, free back rub, etc.) Perfect Two - Auburn Go to the movies Bake something together A giftcard to their favorite It’s Your Love - Tim McGraw Go to a nice restaurant for store a special meal such as Gifts I Don’t Wanna Miss a Thing - Aerosmith Applebees, O’Charley’s, A wallet For her Cheesecake Factory, Olive Boxers My Love - Justin Timberlake Garden, Outback, Long- Box of chocolates A giant stuffed animal (or horn, Carabas, El Rancho Chasing Cars - Snow Patrol Roses a little one) Grande, Benihana’s, The Isn’t She Lovely - Stevie Wonder Rock Bottom Brewery, 20 A gigantic stuffed animal Red/pink shirt (or a little one) Brix, or The Melting Pot. Secret Garden - Bruce Springsteen Take a trip to the Candy hearts Keep in mind that these Wonderwall - Oasis Aquarium A homemade card/singing are only a few of the Go to a concert at Bogarts card/or gigantic card many ideas that you can Have I Told You Lately - Rod Stewart do for your special some- Go to the top of the Carew Jewelry one. There are many things Thinkin’ Bout You - Frank Ocean Tower in downtown Perfume you can do to make them Can You Feel the Love Tonight - Elton John Go dancing Candles happy. All it takes is a little bit of thought; after all, it Take her to get her nails A Drop in the Ocean - Ron Pope A puppy or other cute is the thought that counts done fuzzy animal anyways, right? Hopefully, Old School Love - Lupe Fiasco ft Ed Sheeran Have a photo shoot A meaningful poem one of these ideas helps together inspire you to have a fun Cookies or other baked Sweet Child O’Mine - Guns N’ Roses and creative Valentine’s A horse and carriage ride goods through downtown Day this year! You are so Beautiful - Joe Crocker Handmade Coupons (for -Asia Mineer Go to the art museum ex: free hug, free back She Will be Loved - Maroon 5

-Compiled by Brittani Siegel Volume XIV, Issue VII Fun Zone Page 13

FEBRUARY FUN!

♥♥♥ Valentine’s day does not have to be boring or 10. What do you call two birds in love? sad without a Valentine! Here are twenty riddles to ______lighten up your loveless mood. Try to guess the 11. What did the paper clip say to the magnet? answers on the provided line (if you cannot figure ______them out, the answers are on the bottom of page). 12. What did one pickle say to the other? 1. What do squirrels give for Valentine's Day? ______13. What did the elephant say to his girlfriend? 2. What did the valentine card say to the ______stamp? ______14. What did the bat say to his girlfriend? 3. What did the light bulb say to the switch? ______15. What is the true purpose of Valentine's Day? 4. What did the boy octopus say to the girl ______octopus? ______16. Why is Valentine's Day the best day for a 5. Knock, Knock, Who's there? Olive. Olive celebration? ______Who? ______17. What did one oar say to the other? 6. What is a vampire's sweetheart called? ______18. What did the pencil say to the paper? 7. What did the painter say to her boyfriend? ______19. "Do you have a date for valentines day?" 8. What's the best part about Valentines Day? ______20. You wanna hear a joke? ______9. What is another way of saying Happy Valen tines day? ______-Savannah Shepard

Answers to February Fun

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February 14th. 20. Val- 20. 14th. February "You're 14. ton!" a you my all with you love "I 7.

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mance?" 18. "I dot my my dot "I 18. mance?" - great a mean "You 12. Olive 5. hand? hand,

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party hearty! 17. "Can I I "Can 17. hearty! party "I 11. Tweethearts! 10. hand, your hold I Can 4.

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15. To remind single peo- single remind To 15. chocolate the all when 2.Stick nuts. - me - 1.Forget Page 14 Around School The Torch SCHEDULING

It’s around that time, Glen Este – time to start thinking about next year. Freshman, Sophomores, and Juniors, we are going to start scheduling soon, so start thinking about what you might want to take. Scheduling is estimated to start by mid-March.

Post-secondary students and/or future post-secondary students, your forms for registration are due by March 30. Don’t be late or you will not be able to get in to the program or UC Clermont. There is also an information meeting on February 26 at 6:30 in the PAC, if you or your parents need questions answered or want something cleared up.

Seniors, hopefully you have turned in at least most of your college applications by now. If you haven’t, though, there’s still time. A lot of local colleges around Cincinnati have rolling admissions, which means that they’ll accept applications at any time. It’s still better to apply earlier, though, because they look at those first. Colleges with rolling admission will accept until they have a full class. So, do your research and make sure you know when your college’s deadlines are. -Staff

HEAR YE HEAR YE

We all wonder why we get so nervous before we present in a class, or think about what class will help me prepare for college or the future, or even what would make me not be afraid to speak in front of a lot of people. The an- swer is simple. Practice makes perfect.

The time is coming for scheduling to begin again. The class options are numerous and it can be hard to choose what course is right for you. The best advice for picking any class is to choose one that will most benefit you. At Glen Este one of the most beneficial classes offered is also one of the most disrespected. Speech class has a bad reputation, after all, few people actu- ally like public speaking, but can actually be very educational and help de- velop important life skills.

Taking a speech class can help develop communication skills which can make working with other people much easier. You can also develop your persuasive skills, which is always a good thing, because when you’re more persuasive Decisions - Decisions you can get want you want. Being able to speak in front of others also boosts confidence which is a key factor that employers look for in job candidates. To Many new classes will be offered for the 2015- add to the benefits, speech is also a good class to take before going to col- 2016 school year. Pay attention to new course lege. When interviewed about the class Mrs. Dohrmann said, “I think this class descriptions when scheduling for next year. You prepares you for college because all students will have to take a communica- might find one or two new classes that interest tions course at some point and it will involve some form of public speaking so I you. believe this background experience is really helpful.” Speech class is very different from other course options, but perhaps that’s what makes it so important. Unlike some classes, speech has practical applica- tions in the real world, in the coming weeks put some serious thought into the classes you schedule for next year. Odds are, speech should be one of them.

-Danielle Watkins Volume XIV, Issue VII Around School Page 15 TESTING Are you scared silly about what’s in basic test-taking strategies can minimize spend three or more minutes working store for you when your teacher some of the pressure during these stress- on one problem; Pace yourself. hands out the PARCC or OGT ful tests. Tests? The following PARCC and - Answer all the questions on the test; OGT Test taking tips are going to - Get plenty of rest the night before. Try If you have time go back and check help you be confident and not going to bed at 10 or 9 o clock to ensure your work but if you’re running out of frightened o r nervous about the you get at least 8 hours. time just guess the rest so your able to intimidating tests. The exam chal- have al the questions answered. - The morning of the tests eat a healthy lenges students' skills in writing, and balanced breakfast. This gets your - Practice; You may have heard it a mil- reading, mathematics, science and brain activity up and helps get you think- lion times but practice makes perfect. social studies. Knowing the materi- ing faster. There are many websites that have al presented in the tests is critical, practice OGT tests to help you do the but using some - Dress comfortable so you focus your best to your ability. attention on the test and won’t get dis- tracted. Good Luck!

- Use process of elimination so you will have a better chance of getting the an- swers correct. PARCC TESTING IS:

- Answer all the easy questions first, then February 23– March 10 move on to the more difficult ones. OGT TESTING IS: - You’ll have a little less than a minute to March 16 - March 20 answer each question, therefore don’t

CORNER Wright State COLLEGE Wright State University is a welcoming community set in Dayton, Ohio that will be a perfect setting for anyone to gain the knowledge necessary for today’s workplace. They offer more than 100 academic programs; with no doubt that you will find the right fit for you! Even with over 20,000 students attending, the school still has that small

school feel. This is happening thanks to the faculty and staff who always find ways to connect with students on a more per- sonal level. There is so much to do on campus, that it is hard to become bored. Wright state offers over 200+ student clubs and organizations that will have you out and about and meeting all the other students who reside there. If you have a hobby or interest that you had before you came to Wright State, the school will most likely have it as a club! They have them all! Such as, comic book league for all the comic book nerds, for all the young girls at heart a Campus Girl Scout WSU is available, and for those of you who believe in nat- ural healing even a wilderness medicine group is available! That’s only to name a few though! That does not even count all the oppor- tunities you will find just off of campus in the wonderful city of Dayton! This also doesn’t account for all the great games/matches you’ll find on the fields of the Wright State Raiders! Wright states tuition per year is around $19,238. While this is not exactly on the more expensive side, it is still not cheap. Wright State understands the difficulty involved when it comes to paying for college. Because of this Wright State has set up a program that when any high school student applies, they automatically check to see if you apply for any scholarships, no separate application re- quired! These scholarships can range from $1,500 to a full in-state tuition, room/board per year, and it is renewable for four years! With all the great opportunities wright state offers to get a degree while having fun and saving money, you are practically crazy to not join team Raiders! -Kayla Overbee Page 16 Sports of all Sorts... The Torch

Kings and Queens of the Lanes It’s been a tale of two seasons this year for the Glen Este bowling teams. The Lady Trojans are off to a hot start this year with an outstanding record of 15-0 overall and 11-0 in league play. The boys are off to a rough start though on the other hand, going 8-8 overall and 6-5 in league play. Leading the way for the Lady Trojans is freshman Danielle Cooper, leading the league with an average of 190.2 a match and a high score of 256. Some experts have compared her to Glen Este legend, Leslie Campbell. Danielle does not feel pressure though because she says, “once I start bowling, I just bowl.” Other key contributors for the Lady Trojans are Courtney Chaffin, Drew Coutler, Emily Doppes, and Becca Rainwater. Leading the way for the Trojans is junior Brady Dunigan, being third in the league with a 206 average and a high score of 278. Brady feels that continuous practice and learning different strategies is a key to improving. The most difficult thing to adapt to is the different oil conditions of the lanes. Other team members are Tanner Davis, Cole Hunley, Evan Dennis, and Jacob Klump. The men only have three matches left in the season and the ladies still have four left to complete. -Austin Feltner & Zach Jones

The boys’ basketball team will be KUDOS Seniors Finish having their senior night February 20th against Milford High School. The Glen Este has an abundance of musically in- Strong seniors that will be recognized are: clined students. Some of these students recently Andrew Bingham, Dylan Chafin, Zach represented Glen Este in the Ohio Music Educators Congratulations to all the seniors for Jones, Aatur Shah, Austin Bryant, Association (OMEA) Contest and received stellar their leadership, perseverance, and Tyler Creel, Jackson Madden, Peyton results. dedication our senior athletes have Burdick, Hunter Hoffman, and Alex shown this winter season. McCormick. Josh Bunton- Trumpet solo- Excellent Rating

On Friday January 30th, our senior The Swimming and Academic team Jack Schmidt- Trombone solo- Excellent Rating wrestlers, Kyle Kushner, Jason Belch- will also be on February 20th. The Austin Miller- Euphonium solo- Excellent Rating er, Gage Branson, Evan Gottis, Matt swim team seniors are: Destiny Byrne, Kennedy, and Owen Reeves, were Taylor Cecil, Margret Dulle, Ngan Nick Schmidt- Trombone solo- Superior Rating honored during win against Moeller. Phuong Mai, Breanna Nicole Line- Vocal solo- Superior Rating Ruschman, Prima Sirivasuntra, and On February 9th, our bowling team Harrison Douglas. Megan Ginn, Clair Surko, Alyssa Lowery- Clarinet celebrated their senior night, the two trio- Excellent Rating seniors being Jacob Klump and Emily For the Academic team honors will be Doppes. bestowed on senior Brittany Michael Meece, John Martino, Zack Williams, Sax- Armstrong. ophone trio- Superior Rating The girls’ basketball team will cele- brate their senior night on Wednes- Congratulate to all the seniors—they Josh Bunton, Jack Schmidt, Ben Wolfer, Dallas th Padgitt- Brass quartet- Superior Rating day, February 11 before their deserve it! game vs Turpin. Seniors that will be Congratulations to all of these students! Be sure to recognized are Whitney Brand, Lind- -Adrian Avendano thank them for being such good representatives of sey Singleton, and Brooklyn Reese. Glen Este!

Super Bowl Recap Top Performers The Super Bowl was a hard fought game between the New England Patriots and the Seattle Seahawks. Seattle was de- Passing: T. Brady (NE) - 328 YDS, 4 TD, 2 INT clared the home team and the game was played at the Univer- sity of Phoenix Stadium which is home of the Arizona Cardinals. Rushing: M. Lynch (SEA) - 24 CAR, 102 YDS, 1 The game was back and forth all night. The Seahawks made a TD lucky catch inside the ten yard line with about 30 seconds left in Receiving: J. Edelman (NE) - 9 REC, 109 YDS, the game. On second and goal, the Seahawks decided to run a 1 TD pick route on the goal line and Malcolm Butler, a defensive back for the Patriots, read the play and intercepted it on the goal line Box Score Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 to save the game for New England. Shortly after, a fight broke out and one player was ejected from Seattle. The final score Sea. 0 14 10 0 was 28-24 in favor of New England. - Peyton N. Eng. 0 14 0 14 Volume XIV, Issue VII Sports of all Sorts... Page 17

THINK LOVE NOT WAR Bullying Is Not The Way! and encourage others to do the same. 2. Help others, take ac- As high school students, nearly everyone has played some part in tion when there is an apparent bullying situation or if you think bullying before. There are three main roles in a bullying situa- someone is being bullied. 3. Be accountable, if there is bullying tion: the bully, the victim and the witness. Despite the media’s that isn’t reported, but is observed, the witness is just as guilty. 4. emphasis on “the bully or who is bullied,” students are far more Be a good example for others, others will follow in the footsterps likely to be a witness than either the bully or the victim. As ob- of those who lead. 5. Be empathetic to others, imagine yourself servers, sometimes it is difficult to distinguish who did what to in all three roles of a bullying situation. 6. Educate yourself on whom especially when the internet enables bullies to verbally different ages, backgrounds, races, ethnicities, religions, and men- abuse others from the comfort of their own homes. With technolo- tal illnesses that might be a consideration for those people you gy such as smartphones mixed with social networking like Face- encounter in your life. Being educated develops a more accept- book and Twitter, bullies can reach their victims at any time, from ing, open mind. any location, without seeing them face-to-face. Cyberbullying I s the easiest for most teenagers to take part in because it is the Everyone has resources to help stop bullying and even pre- least confrontational and takes no real nerve. While it is easy to venting it before it can begin. It takes courage and strong values get swept up with the drama, heated arguments, and name call- to put their resources to use. Bullying reports are always availa- ing, it takes real courage to stop it. ble in the office. Teachers can also help you if you are being bullied or if you see bullying. Do something—you know it is the The following tips are advice from the National Crime Prevention right thing to do! -Staff Writer Council: 1. Be assertive, but find peaceful ways to solve problems

SUPER DEPRESSING ADS Even if you are not a football fan you are likely to watch the an- nual Super Bowl for the commercials. The cost of a half-minute of air-time was $4.5 million this year, so companies need to make a memorable ad. Opting usually for a funny or cute commercial, the advertisements this year took a dark, thought-provoking turn to depression town.

The notorious depressing ad was Nationwide’s first ad, which ran during the first half. A young kid is the star of the commercial where he spends the entire time talking about life experiences, such as flying and getting married, that he cannot experience be- cause, “I died.” Nationwide issued the following statement about the ad: Preventable injuries around the home are the leading cause of childhood deaths in America. Most people don't know that. The sole purpose of this message was to start a conversation, not sell insurance.

The NFL also showed a new ad from their “No More” campaign against domestic violence. It features a 911 call of a woman that cannot tell the operator that she is in a domestic violence situation. Instead of telling the officer she is in trouble, she pretends to order the pizza. The commercial ends with the phrase, “When its hard to talk, it’s up to us to listen.” This adds fire to the ongoing conversa- tion of domestic violence and the way women are treated.

The reason for the sad ads does not matter because people are talking about them. It provokes us as a society to take a step back and look at a much larger picture. Are we really where we need to be as a whole? - Zach Jeschke

Record Dives

The Glen Este Diving team competed with the Loveland Diving team in a verification/coaches’ meet on Sunday, February 8th. All of the Glen Este girls achieved personal best 11 dive scores! Taylor Stassi scored a 224.90 in her first ever 11 dive meet. Bethany Ber- ger scored a 302.20. The highlight of the meet was Baylee Lawson scoring a 324.85 to break the Glen Este 11 dive school record. Coaches Dave Wolkoff and Ms. Werwinski are very proud of all of you! We are looking forward to a great championship season!

WAY TO GO TAYLOR! Page 18 The Torch

CUPID’S CORNER To: Zachary Happy Valentines Day bae! - Erika To: Ashley You’re an awesome friend! -Rebecca

To: Corey I’m going to take Kendra to prom - Miguel To: Whitney You’re welcome - Paighton

To: Mrs. Yarchi Thank you for all the help you give me about To: Lindsey You’re beautiful inside and out! You’re one of the college and stuff - Shawnee greatest people I’ve ever met. - Savannah

To: Willie I just wanna fly planes… with you - Ally To: Mr. Dicks Remember, Mr. Dicks you can be the difference -Mrs. Dohrmann To: Hailey Thanks for being there for me skittles - Anonymous To: Austin Have a great day! I’m glad we’re friends - Ashley To: Sean Hope you have a fantastic birthday on valentines day - Ashley To: Taylor Those jam out sessions in your car were pretty fun and you’re really cool - Thu To: Michelle Obama I’m sorry but this isn't working out. I never should have agreed to this - School lunches To: Sammantha with lots of love - Kyle

To: Erica Love you best friend! - Siera To: Shelby I ♥ you -Anonymous

To: Austin Spanish is very enjoyable with you in the class - Thu To: Emily I love peaches - Bek

To: Stephanie You have to pay the troll toll to get to my heart - To: Keegan If it weren’t for you I’d probably be failing. -Alexandra Congrats for being prego - Daniel

To: Whitney You know what's on the menu? me-n-u ♥ - Brittani To: Brittany You have to be odd to be number 1! - Kristina

To: Megan I love you. Have a perfect valentine's day Meg! To: Will You suck but you’re still kind of a good friend I guess - Mikaela - Cat

To: Ashley Stay strong and you will find the right one - Austin To: 2nd bell Thank you for being wonderful - Ms. McCollom

To: Ms. Devoto Happy Valentines Day! Here’s a treat - Alison To: Haley A guy would be lucky to be with you - Anonymous

To: Emily Hey you smell better when you're sleeping p.s. you’re To: Navy Hey babe, I love you with all my heart and soul forev cute - Logan er and always - Hailey

To: Ashley Hi Ashley - David :) To: Adelina Wow. Never been so amazed by anyone else -Anonymous To: Noah McDermott Thanks for being so sweet for two bells a day - Mrs. Dohrmann To: Haley You are just so dang pretty - Anonymous

To: Luke Another year another lame holiday - Miguel To: Jacob Thank you for being here for me through all of my tough times - Shawnee To: Matt Have a great valentines day - Ashley To: Spencer Happy Valentines Day! Thanks for always taking To: Abigail Happy Valentines Day beautiful. I love you ♥ - naps and eating with me - Kelsey Christian To: Alex Thanks for helping me through thick and thin - Austin To: Natalie Thank you for being such a sweet student aide -Mrs. Dohrmann To: Art Club and AP Portfolio Thanks for being you! - Mrs. D. Volume XIV, Issue VII Page 19

CUPID’S CORNER

To: Caleb S. Ay, we miss you bro, things aren’t the same with- To: Haily my bestie who is sweeter than the sweetest candy!! out you, please come back.—Canada - Kyle

To: Cat You’re my one and only love - Cat To: Patricia hope you have a great valentines day - Ashley

To: My fans Another mixtape coming soon “detention”, sorry To: Kaylin I am secretly in love with you but don't tell your for the wait - Dchaf brother! - Anonymous

To: Justin Thanks for being a great brother. You rock! - Austin To: Ms. Devoto We ♥ you - Student body

To: Asia You are my favorite person and you’re super cute To: Mr. Shelton thank you for your rugged good looks and - Kelsey charm - Mrs. Dohrmann

To: Amanda You are great, you make everyone’s day better! To: Bobby Walker we love you but get us more snowdays - Tyler please :) - Student body

To: Erica Thanks for being there when I needed it. Love you so To: Samantha Hope you have a wonderful day - Ashley much! - Hannah To: Kylie Thanks for being an awesome friend! - Anonymous To: Adelina You have amazing here - Anonymous To: Alyssa I miss you, lets be friends more - Brittani To: Kristan Thank you for being a lovely sassy friend, you’re amazing! Love you!! - Cat To: Kelsey I need some answers for my math homework. Quick. What’s your number - Anonymous To: Erika Will you go to prom with me? - Zack To: Mr. Ratterman i cant wait to see you rock your tuxedo. To: Mr. Ratterman You are a saint for putting up with Mr. Dicks You’ll be the best escort ever! - Mrs. Dohrmann and his constant, childish antics - Loyal student To: Ally Catie made me write one but you are “plane” To: Baylee Thanks for the starbucks sugar - Elijah amazing - William

To: Mrs. Keegan It’s a wittle bitty baby! - Destiny & 7 To: Sam I hate trucks - Miguel

To: Zach You make me melt like hot fudge on a Sunday To: Jake Diana have a good day! - Anonymous - Anonymous To: Taylor Thanks for being a great friend - Rebecca To: Ally thanks for being a gucci friend you’re the real MVP - Catharine aka Cat To: Zach wanna make a bet? - Jenn

To: Sydney Thanks for making my walmart trips 10x better To: Ms. Lach your calves remind me of Mt. Rushmore, gotta and helping with soccer themed Saturday - Kristina love the boulders - Peyton

To: Katherine When i’m low you take me high - Brittani To: Alyssa Y ou are beautiful, don't let that kid get you down! P.O.P. holdin’ it down - Tatiana To: Trent I am the only man you need. ♥ - Trent To: Hailey I can't make a shot because I’m too busy looking at To: Ms. Lach You will never have to do another cupids corner! - you! - Peyton Mrs. Dohrmann

CUPIDS CORNER To: Alex Everyone smiles as you drift past the flowers that To: Mrs. Cook Thanks for being an awesome pre-calc grow so incredibly high - John teacher! - Anonymous

To: Brea Occasionally you are a good person but its okay To: Haley You are hot - Anonymous because I like you - Taylor To: Ms. Lach Sometimes we don’t appreciate you so hope- To: Zach Roses are red, violets are blue, I have a huge crush fully this candy will suffice - Thu on you! Love you Balls! - Jake To: John How do I say, “you’re the grossest thing ever” with To: Jesus I love you! I’m so happy we’re together. Will you out offending you - Olivia be my Valentine? - Savannah To: Asia You’re gorgeous, you and Germy are relationship To: Alyssa You’re my favorite and i love you. Will you be goal - Anonymous my valentine, just kidding :) -Hannah To: Danielle I’m doctor 11, my tardis is blue, I need a com To: Tommy Hey Tommy thanks for being my bestest friend panion, I'll surely choose you - Matt and for being there for me. You da bomb - Mikaela To: Alex You’re my favorite cousin, and I love ya! Happy Valentines Day!! ♥ -Mikaela To: Julia I’m going to miss you when you leave, I love you :) - Alex To: Kayla Hope you have a great valentines day - Ashley

To: Brandy Hey girlfriend you’re my bff, and ilysm! To: Adelina You are so pretty - Anonymous - Mikaela To: Stephanie To my favorite lunch buddy, thanks for being To: Stephanie To my favorite lunch buddy thanks for being the bees knees - Cara awesome - Cara To: Megan Hi Megan, I love you, goodbye! - Anonymous To: Destiny You just keep doin what you’re doin cause you To: Kyla I’m glad we sorted things out, you’re my best friend doin it right - Brittani and I love you - Cat To: Kristina Hey girl, you’re perfect! Dont forget it! Love To: Corey I love you Corey - Miguel you!! - Mikaela To: Taylor Marry me, I love you bae! - Hugh To: Cat Hope you have a fantastic valentines day - Ashley To: Mrs. Schmidt You’re my favorite teacher - Chris To: Brooke You’re my WCW every week - Chops To: Danielle Happy Valentines Day, thanks for being a To: Rebecca Roses are red, violets are blue, the world would great friend - Taylor be lost without you! - Anonymous To: Jacob I can’t conceal how I feel about you - Fisa To: Ms. Lach Ms. Lach will you be my valentine - Andrew To: Cassidy I love you with a passion of a thousand suns To: Siera I love you dork!!! - Hannah - Melquaan To: Emily I love you! - Alison To: Megan You, Taylor, and Aleesha always made my day To: Zoe Just thought I’d send you one of these because you better during lunch last semester - Thu are my bff. Love you - Mikaela To: Corey I don't have a library card, but do you mind if I To: Brittani One Love - Bob check you out? - Kendrick

CUPIDS CORNER To: Kara Oh! Look who bought a candy gram for a certain To: Hailey Hey babe, I wanted to tell you happy Valentines someone again!... me - Kayla Day I love you so much! - Navy

To: Kendra Ready for prom!!!! - Miguel To: Emily I like you - Brittani

To: Carrie I think you’re hot - Secret Admirer To: Saraya Thank you for being a lovely best friend I love you more than h.s. - Cat To: Carrie I bought you a candy gram… again!! God I love you - Kayla To: Adelina You’re beauty is equal to the light of a thousand suns - Anonymous To: Mrs. Dohrmann You brighten up my day when you visit second bell! - Austin, Zach, & Peyton To: Jacob Everybody nose were meant to be - Lord Volde mort To: Senior Ratterman Your class inspires me to do great things in my personal and eventually professional To: Simon It’s a yes from me - Anonymous life - Anonymous To: Anonymous I got my I on you - Bill Nye To: Danielle Best club leader ever! - Kyle To: David You’re the most adorablest junior. Ever. You’re To: Megan Happy Valentines Day sweetheart - Jackson hawt - Yours truly

To: Kylie If you were a fruit you’d be a fine apple - Rebecca To: Grippa Your class stinks. literally - Shelby

To: Thu Have a great Valentines Day! - Ashley To Cheyenne I love you! - Shawnee

To: Anthony To my best friend. You are a true friend to me! To: Adrian Oye cono otra vez contest vina vamos chico alas - Garret peliculas o algo. cono!!! - Miguel

To: Megan You’re the best bff ever, sometimes I love you To: All Seniors We’re finally graduating!!! - Shelby and sometimes I hate you - Taylor To: Asia You told me to tell you you’re pretty, so you’re To: Matt Them eyes boy! ♥ - Kayla pretty - Taylor

To: Emily You’re a good friend (I guess) 42 - Lauren To: Michael You’re an idiot. Navy beats Army - Navy

To: Glen Este students I love working with you all everyday - To: Michelle Thank you for being my best friend. - Shawnee Ms. Devoto To: Hailey You’re my WCW everyday - Chops To: Taylor Mein friend - Kyle To: Jacob Help I’ve fallen for you and I can’t get up To: Kylie Have a fantastic day - Ashley - Life alert lady

To: Mrs. Dohrmann Have a GREAT Valentines Day! To: Bobby I am lucky to have you in my life babe. Happy Valentines Day - Mariah To: Austin Can’t wait for baseball and wings together! -Zach & Peyton To: Kendra Please be my valentine - Anonymous

To: Shelby I know we haven't been getting along lately, but I To: Aydan Superman may be from DC but boy you are a still love you - Kayla marvel - Anonymous

To: Savannah Have a great Valentines Day - Ashley To: Robby You like my car? - Miguel CUPIDS CORNER

To: Nancy Are you a tamale? Cause you’re hot - Anonymous

To: Ashley Hope you enjoy the candy attached you deserve it - Thu To: Hannah You are so beyond beautiful. Thank you for HAVE A being my friend - Anonymous

To Taylor Do you work at Taco Bell? Cause you spice up my night - Asia SWEET DAY To: Kaitlyn Does your dad work in a bakery? Cause you have a nice set of buns - Anonymous

To: Ms. Lach Thank you for allowing me to joke with you in class lol - Shawnee GLEN ESTE To: Adrian The Marines are okay. But the Navy is better wise words said by Shelby - Anonymous

To: Kayla How’s it going? I hope you had a nice day ON - Wyatt

To: Jacob Lettuce be more than friends - Lettuce lover

To: Cat I enjoy spending time with you, you’re super amazing. I love you - Cat FEBRUARY

To: Ethan Hey hook me up with a discount on the TV’s - Miguel 14TH To: Blake C. I’m always watching your beautiful face :) - your secret admirer

The Torch Staff