Front Page - Jenks Public Schools

The
TROJAN TORCH
JenksHighSchoolNewspaper
April2012
Volume92//Issue6
Student Council’s hosting of
district proves to be a success!
Read more on page 5
Jenks Campus Police
work with city council
and gain more powers
around Tulsa
Page 2
Students shadow professionals and start
planning for their future
Page 4
NewsPage2
Campus Police Gains Tulsa Powers
Cam Thomas
Copy Editor
The Jenks Campus Police have not yet
reached a similar agreement with the City of
Jenks. Jenks City Hall is pictured above.
As of Monday Mar. 5, the Jenks Board
of Education has granted the Jenks Campus
Police Department additional powers. The
police force was granted the power to direct
traffic, issue tickets, and make arrests, but
only on Tulsa Campuses.
The board approved the measure by
a 4-0 vote with one of the members being
absent. The agreement between the Jenks
School District and the City of Tulsa will
allow Jenks Campus Police Officers to perform actions that were previously limited to
the Tulsa Police Department.
Although the agreement has been made
with the City of Tulsa, a likewise agreement
has not yet been reached between the Jenks
School District and the City of Jenks. However, Jenks Campus Police officers are very
hopeful that a similar agreement can soon
Two Tulsans
arrested for murder
Andrea Mayes
Reporter
Jacob England (left), 19, and Alvin Watts,
32, were dettained on alleged charges of first
degree murders.
Shortly after midnight on April 7, 2012, Jacob England and Alvin Watts were arrested for suspected murder
of three north Tulsa residents on Good Friday. They are
now charged with three counts of first degree murder, two
counts of shooting with intent to kill, one count of possession of a firearm, and commission of a felony. Two of the
five victims shot died at the scene, the third died in the hospital early Easter morning. The last victims were released
from local hospitals after being treated for their injuries.
The two supposedly shot down the victims while driving a
white pick up truck around a four square mile radius. The
car was abandoned and burned. They were later arrested
in nearby Turrly, OK. On the morning of April 10 the pair
confessed to the crime.
be reached.
The main purpose of the new provision was to allow the Jenks Campus Police
officers to be able to direct traffic outside
of schools. Officers can exercise their new
powers in any area which is owned by the
district, leased or rented property as well as
streets, highways, roads, alleys, and other
public areas. Also, the new powers granted
to the Jenks Campus Police Department apply to areas that lie adjacent to district-occupied property.
The agreement affects only those properties which are located within the limits of
the City of Tulsa. However, because most
of Jenks Public Schools is located within
Tulsa it applies to most campuses.
Campus Police Officers now can protect and serve every Jenks Campus.
The shooting has sparked
controversy concerning that the
crime may be backed by racism.
England’s father was killed by an
African American man two years
ago, and some believe that this
was a way for him to get back at
his father’s killer. The concern
was heightened by a troublesome
Facebook post written by England
shortly before the attacks. After his
foul message he claims that he is
“gone in the head.” England also
has many other stresses, including
the recent suicide of his girlfriend
that left him to be a single parent.
Some claim that he may be mentally unstable, even suicidal, and a
neighbor told the TulsaWorld that
she thinks “he was not able to take
what has been thrown at him.”
Though not everyone is convinced that the murders are a result
of racial tensions. Tulsa Police
Chief Chuck Jordan informed the
World that it was too early to tell if
the shootings were fueled by racial
aggression, saying that they will not
depend on rumors, but “only evidence to take us where we need to
go.” FBI officials now involved in
the case agree that it is too soon to
confirm that the crime had a racial
motive. Nevertheless, the murders
have sparked national outrage, and
have terrorized north Tulsa’s black
community.
Unlike his roommate, Watts
has not been found to have a particular motive. A self-proclaimed
Christian, Watts claims that he was
helping England through his anger,
and trying to pursue him to get his
life together, as told by the World.
Though Watts is not completely
innocent. He holds two previous
offenses, along with England, who
holds one, according to the New
York Times.
The pair is now being held at
the Tulsa County jail where they
await a trial. Neither side has announced the lawyers, and the difficult task of choosing a non-biased
jury has yet to begin. Bail for the
two is currently set at 9.16 million
apiece, and their next appearance is
scheduled for April 16.
The outrage has brought a lot
of attention to Tulsa, but the case
is far from being finalized. Several
questions remain concerning conditions surrounding the murders,
and many details are left uncertain.
HEALTH:
Stress
Spring brings rain, flowers, and
unfortunately for students, STRESS.
Between the pressure to get grades
up, receiving college acceptions (and
rejections), and dealing with graduation,
prom, and finals, this is an undoubtedly
stressful time for most students. Stress is
a normal part of life, especially in high
school, but sometimes it can become
overwhelming. Thankfully, there are
things that can reduce stress. A stress
management website suggests some of
the following.
1) Humor: laughing makes you
happy, and has been proven to relax
the system. Taking a few minutes to
exchange funny anecdotes between
friends could actually pay off. Laughter
can also boost your immune system,
which makes the body feel refreshed.
2) Nutrition: eating a healthy diet
filled with vitamins and fatty acids can
reduce stress levels and keep the body
healthy. Try eating an assortment of food
in a variety of colors. The more balance
in a diet, the better you’ll feel.
3) Exercise: working out is a great
way to relive stress. Riding a bike
around the block, walking outside for ten
minutes, or practicing a sport can help to
decrease stress. It refreshes your system
and mind, making you feel ready to take
on anything.
4) Sleep: the average teen needs
close to nine hours of sleep, and studying
keeps some from a restful night. Sleeping
allows your brain and body to recover
and decompress, making for better, more
relaxed days. Doesn’t that sound nice?
5) Music: listening to music is a
great release. Finding your favorite song
on the radio can boost your day, and
actually decrease stress. When you find
yourself getting stressed, put a playlist of
your top ten all time favorite songs.
6) Just breathe: stress can make
students want to shut down, but take in
a deep breath and keep your eye on the
prize. Think of how great summer will
be and how accomplished you will feel
when you get there.
-Andrea Mayes
NewsPage3
Putin’s political stronghold
Bailey Fischer-Columbo
Reporter
Vladimir Putin, previous prime
minister, swept Russia’s recent presidential
elections with the obvious majority of
Russia, winning 63% of the votes. Held
on March 4th, Putin beat out the four
other eligible candidates, and now holds
presidential office for a (recently extended)
six year term.
Putin is not new to the political scene
however, with numerous prior political
positions in his 60 years, such as two
previous president terms (as Yeltsin’s
successor in 1999, and two continuous
terms in 2000 and 2004), a chairman
for the United Russia, chairman of the
Council of Ministers of the Union of
Russia and Belarus, and prime minister
(of which he was until recent president
elections). During these years, Putin has
implemented many policies and reforms,
for example, ending the crisis of the 1990’s
with political stability (which continued
to improve for nine years). He is also
considered responsible for reducing the
poverty by close to 50%. Not only has he
stabilized much of Russia’s economy, but
also passed energy policies and several
other infrastructure projects. Despite his
improvements, many still raise an eyebrow
at Putin’s continued power in Russia.
Fearing his 25 years in office should raise
a red flag to a potential dangerous control
over his citizens, as Stalin was in office
for 31 years. This red scare has spiked
many violent anti-Putin rebellions in past
months. In response to the recent outcries,
Putin has attempted to restore his absolute
power through various attempts: a) backing
away from the United Russia party, which
is no longer his support base; b) supporting
democratic reforms that will facilitate the
registration of political parties and the
direct, popular elections of governors; c)
coming out in favor of creating a public
television network; and d) promising
to curtail many of the bureaucracy’s
privileges (according to New York Times).
Although many fear his constant
presence, Putin is determined to show he is
only trying to better Russia and is in now
way a threat to the country or his people.
Afghanistan murders rock
nation
by Dallas Elmore
Americas decade old war on terror in the
country of Afghanistan has taken a turn that few
would have suspected when American forces
�irst invaded the country to defeat the Taliban
following the September 11 terrorist attacks.
ArmyStaffSergeantRobertBaleswaschargedMar
23withthepremeditatedmurderof16civilianAfghani
citizensinwhatseemstobeacaseofbrutalmurderina
wartorncountry.Asdetailsofthecaseemerge,itseems
thatSgt.BalesslippedoutofhisbaseinPanjawi,walked
to two villages, and opened �ire on sleeping villagers,
thensimplywalkedbacktohisbase.Whilethemurders
themselvesareaheinouscrime,theattackscouldnot
have come at a worse time for Afghan-U.S. relations.
TheFeb.21burningof�iveQuransbyAmerican
servicemen outside of the Afghan capital of Kabul
touched off days of riots and revealed a rift between
thetwonations.Asriotsandattacksswelledacrossthe
country,ariftwasrevealedinthedirectionthewarwas
tobefought.TheincreasinglyquerulousAfghanistan
wants to control its own security forces, while the
NATO mission in Kabul realizes that the Afghanis,
even with Western training
are hopelessly disorganized.
Harmad Karzai, president of
Afghanistan, is pushing for
furthercontrolofhistumultuous
nation, while President Barack
Obama is charged with sticking
to a pullout deadline in an
election year. Each leader is
facing opposition to his goals
for their country; Karzai, in the
Taliban and the tribal leaders,
Obama, with the Republicans
and their more conservative
minded friends, the Tea Party.
Aseachleaderlooksfora
way to save face in a conflict
that has done nothing but
seem to drag on forever,
the conclusion seems to be
comingsoonerthanexpected,
with unexpected reasons.
Career Shadowing is
rewarding experience!
FeaturePage4
StephenGehlytakesstate
atchesstournament
Maddy Reichert
Reporter
The news anchors collaborate on their
next stories to
report while the
camera takes a
break to another
location. Getting
the right stories
is important!
The weather man accurately
reports the forecast for the
week while strategically working the green screen.
Seniors got the opportunity to taste the
future and explore their interests. With graduation right around the corner, career shadowing
was a highly anticipated event that resulted in
many memorable experiences. The 21st annual career shadowing took place on Thursday,
March 29th. The main goal of this opportunity
was for graduating seniors to shadow a career
of their choice.
Seniors Emma Blackwell and Kat Allen
went to Fox 23 news and had the exciting experience of shadowing news reporters.
“My favorite part was touring the studio
and interviewing people. I got to go out with
a reporter and learn the positive and negative
parts of their job. Also, I realized how much
being on TV means to people.” Said senior
Kat Allen.
Emma and Kat both agreed that it was interesting to learn the secrets behind the public
media screen.
Liz Hofmeister shadowed a Family Violence Detective and got to watch interrogation
about a murder. She learned that this particular
Speech student
Leah Hartney
qualifies for
nationaltournament
Andrea Mayes
Reporter
After a year of hard work
and agonizing competitions,
Leah Hartney has qualified
for the National Speech and
Debate Competition held
in Indianapolis this coming
summer. Hartney has been
competing in acting events
for a while and is passionately devoted to performance
competitions.
She competes in several
events, including Dramatic
Interpretation, in which she
received the first place medal
and bid to nationals, a very
prestigious honor considering
that she had to defeat numerous competitors.
“There were 10-12
rounds with about 40 competitors each,” explains junior Leah Hartney, meaning
that she placed first out of
more than 400 people.
Dramatic Interpretation is
a unique event in which
students perform their own
selected material that has an
emotional, expressive undertone. Most DI’s are extremely
serious, and often performers
are seen screaming, physically shaking, falling to the
floor, or even crying. Part of
what makes a great appearance is selecting the right
piece .
Senior Stephen Gehly became
the State High School Champion at
the 16th Annual Oklahoma Scholastic Chess Championship held
March 3, 2012 at Del City, OK.
With this win, he will represent
the state of Oklahoma at the Denker Tournament of High School
Champions in Vancouver, WA in
August of 2012. The “Denker” is
considered a prestigious event in
memory of Grandmaster Arnold
Denker who helped found it and
who helped support it financially
for over 20 years.
job can be very serious at times but
also really fun to reach out to the
community. Whether it was a confirmation or a disappointment, career
shadowing day was a major success
for many!
“I performed a Joyce Carol
Oates piece from the play ‘Homesick,’ an excerpt called ‘Pinktoes.’
It was about a girl who ran away
from home because of a dysfunctional family, and the struggles
she faced living on the streets.
VERY dramatic,” continued
Hartney.
Hartney is already perfecting
her act for nationals and depends
partially on advice from her peers
and teachers.
“I have been having friends,
teachers, and coaches watch
me perform to get critiques and
criticism. I am also going to
change some of the blocking in
my piece,” said Hartney about
preparing for the upcoming event.
Although the activity requires lots
of work and strenuous hours, she
is ecstatic to know that she has
achieved this level in the acting
competition.
“It is really exciting to know
that my hard work paid off and
since my dad is the coach, I know
that I made him proud. It is a great
feeling,” says Hartney. Her father,
coach and speech and debate instructor Gregg Hartney, is equally
elated about his daughter’s accomplishments.
“The first time I took students to districts as a coach was
in 1977, where a friend of mine,
who was also coaching, had a son
that won his event, qualifying him
for nationals. I thought that was a
pretty neat thing. I hoped that it
would happen with me someday,
and now 35 years later it has,”
stated Coach Hartney.
Leah Hartney will rival about
220-230 contestants at nationals
just in her event alone over the
course of five days during the
tournament.
“I am excited to be competing with other competitors just as
good and probably better [than
me]. Just to watch everyone’s
performances is exciting and
nerve wracking all at the same
time,” concluded Hartney.
StuCo holds spring conference
FeaturePage5
Andrea Mayes
Reporter
Student council held the spring conference for district seven on Mar. 28th in the
Frank Herald Gym. The club has been busy
planning the event ever since homecoming,
with several committees helping with food,
entertainment and decorations. The school
was decked in Lord of the Rings decor as
the club put on “the quest for leadership” for
those attending. Close to 500 excellent young
minds attended districts according to the
StuCo team. This meeting is similar to the fall
district conference, which was held at Edison
High School, but the spring conference centers around selection of the next year’s district
officers. Though there was a serious side
to the gathering, there were also many fun
activities that the group planned. Winner of
The Biggest Loser and Broken Arrow native,
Danny Cahill, gave a motivational speech
about achieving success and dreams through
self perseverance and leadership. There was
also a magician that performed many indulgencing tricks with rings, coins, money, cards,
and ping-pong balls.
StuCo members have been very excited
for districts, and have had fun planning it.
They say that they were most excited for their
Lord of the Rings video, and seeing friends
from other schools.
StuCo is a huge organization that many
students enjoy being involved in. The club
also teachers members several skills that are
useful for succeeding in later life, and leading Natalie Colclasure and Alex Smith
their student body.
enjoyed the fun and entertainment
“Being in Student Council has taught provided by Student Council at their
me leadership skills, speaking, and manage- Spring District Conference, which
ment,” said publicist Dillion Conwell. Many teaches students about leadership.
StuCo members would agree.
AP tests bring
stress to students
Dallas Elmore
Local film student
ranks nationally
Amy Pritt
Reporter
Film students have been recognized by numerous awards in the
Reporter
Jenks High school film classes, taught by Clifton Raphael. Some of
High achieving students across the nation are starting to the big awards that students compete for are C-SPAN and NFAA.
nervously check their calendars as the date for the Advanced Danial Gebreili is a winner in both categories.
Placement, or AP tests, draws decidedly nearer than they had
Danial spent three months working on a short documentary
hoped it would.
film to enter into the NFAA competition. NFAA is an organization
Advanced Placement courses are taken in the high school, but that accepts applicants from all aspects of the arts. They pick the
at the college level, to take care of not only high school credit, but top 2% of the arts students to go to Miami. Danial’s film, The Glass
experience the work environment of a college classroom with the Child, is a documentary based off of the life of a nine year old girl,
benefit of high school teaching. The ultimate goal of the classes Sophia, who has a younger, disabled brother name Eli.
“I had to create a piece that was above ordinary. It had to be
is to pass the Advanced Placement exams held at the end of April
a
piece
that I have never created before in order to win NFAA. I
that determine a student’s aptitude in that subject, whether it be
could not settle for ordinary,” senior Danial Gebreili said.
calculus or world history. If a passing score is achieved, a pupil
Ordinary is an understatement. The Glass Child is a film that
can receive college credit without ever having to take that class at portrays how children are affected with a sibling that is disabled.
their university.
The focus of the piece was revolved around Sophia, rather than
Students battle all year long to prepare for the exams. focusing on the disabled sibling.
Although AP classes provide a rigorous curriculum to leave
“I struggled with getting the family to be comfortable with me,
students confident going into the tests, nerves can often the better trying to get the truth on tape, and conveying the truth to the viewer
of kids. Some wear T-shirts with slogans of their own, or have while doing it in a manner that wouldn’t be boring, but not over the
an extra doughnut for breakfast. Others still study till the crack of top either.” senior Danial Gebreili said.
After months of hard work, Danial was a Silver award winner
dawn, and crash into a deep sleep once the deed is completed.
in
the
NFAA competition. He won $5,000 and an all expense paid
Practicing lots and immediate feedback are the keys to Mrs.
trip
to
Miami, Fl.
Morgans AP Language class and succeeding on that exam.
Another competition for film students to be recognized in is
My entire curriculum is geared towards preparing students for the
C-SPAN’s StudentCam Competition. Danial Gebreili and Michael
test writing at a post secondary level” says Mrs. Morgan.
Whitten decided to do their piece about the powers that Congress
Students, however, prepare for the test differently.
has and presidential limitations of power. Danial and Michael
Review, review, review, and when in doubt, I go with all of
received third place in the competition. They won $750, were interviewed for C-SPAN, and their film received the opportunity to be
the above” says junior Caleb Robinson when asked about his
aired on C-SPAN.
preparations for the tests.
SportsPage6
Running on Riverside
Amy Pritt
Reporter
The simplest hints of spring are on show, exciting each and
every one. The time zones set back an hour and the days are
perpetually getting longer. The sun escalates out of hiding and
every ray is shining a little brighter and a littler longer each day.
The powerful winds create ripple effects amongst the blossoming trees. During spring, every organism comes to life. The dead
flowers and grass shift their way to compose a beautiful scenery
that can be reveled in.
The suitable spring weather not only brings plants to life,
but also allures people to disconnect themselves from the world
of technology, to be brought into the essence of the outdoors.
Riverside Park is a thriving park where many people head to on
sunny days. The park provides entertainment for families on an
authentic spring day.
The accommodate weather also encourages exercise for
people. Many people choose the Riverside path to work out on.
The Riverside trail lies parallel to the Arkansas river. Alongside the path, wildlife emerges and renders a scenic view while
many professional bikers and runners exercise for the day. Many
people walk their dogs, long board, skateboard, run, and bike on
the Riverside trail. The path runs by multiple rest areas, parks,
fountains, and sculptures along the way. The Riverside trail is
ideal for exercise of any kind.
Soccer steals the show
Dallas Elmore
Reporter
The season has kicked off on what looks to be a successful
year for the mens and womens soccer programs.
Both teams battled their way unbeaten starts in the
preseason, and as the regular season opened, into perfect
position as they looked to make runs deep into the play offs.
The girl’s side has ten talented seniors guiding their squad,
including four standout players who have committed to
playing at the college level. As the girls progress through the
season, look for the seniors to accentuate the teams desire for
a state championship, as the team has not had the honor since
the girls freshman year. While the seniors take center stage in
what looks to be a championship season, the underclassmen
continue to contribute to the team, as several underclassmen
play in the pool for the national team,
Coinciding with the girls desire for another state title, the
boys team is a favorite to find itself playing in the state title
game. After heartbreaking losses in the state tournament finals
and semifinals two years running, this year’s crop of seniors
has little intention of backing away from their last opportunity
to come home with a trophy. With two players committed to
the next level, several players on a top ranked national team,
and the rest seasoned veterans with plenty of club and high
school experience, this season seems to be the best shot for
the boys team. Under the heading of long time coach John
Timmons and his equally skilled assistant Justin McCrackin,
this season seems to be headed in the right direction.
Team Unity. From the sophomores to the seniors, the team
is always laughing. Practice is fun, games are better, and
Volleyball comes to the 918
Natalie Miller
Reporter
Spring is in the air! Everywhere there are flowers blooming, grass growing, and people
outside doing fun spring activities. Winter has finally run its
course and it is now possible to
step outside in a t-shirt without
having to run back in to grab a
coat.
Many people choose to
celebrate the warmer weather
by going for a run after school,
walking their dog, or just driving with the windows down. The
sun has come out from behind
the grey winter clouds and it
seems to put everyone in a better mood. Of course, one of the
main ways to enjoy this outdoor
weather is to play sports.
Volleyball is a fun spring
and summer sport that can be
played almost anywhere. Some
towns have designated areas that
people can use to play on. One
of the most popular, and perhaps
most desirable ways to play this
sport is on the beach. Something
about splitting into teams and
hitting a ball back and forth
while feeling sand beneath your
feat and the sun above your head
is very appealing.
This sport can be played
both competitively and just for
fun. Either way, it’s a great way
to burn energy and be active.
So now instead of being forced
to remain indoors and think of
ways to kill time, there are many
alternatives that the weather is
providing us with. Whether its
running, swimming, or volleyball, this season is bring everyone out into the warmer, happier
weather.
March madness excites basketball fans
Madison Reichert
Reporter
March Madness is a phenomenon that captures the nations sport fans from the second
week of March to the beginning
of April. This event allows
people to predict the winners of
the multiple NCAA basketball
games.This series of tournaments determines the national
champion of college basketball.
It sends millions of fans into a
synchronized frenzy every year.
This chaos is where the tourna-
ment get it’s nickname. The 68
baskteball teams settle their differences on the court and compete for basketball’s biggest most
desired prize. The final game was
between University of Kansas
and University of Kentucky.
Kentucky held off Kansas for the
team’s eighth NCAA basketball
title. This is reportedly the first
since 1998.
“We were the best team this season.” Said coach John Calipari.
Meet the staff
Sarah Richey
StaffSpreadPage7
e
i
l
a
t
a
N iller
M
Natalie Miller is undeniably the ideal Snow White. She is sweet, kind and
cares about nature. She is outgoing and friendly when introduced to new
people. Natalie is a great part of our newswriting team because she always
puts 100% into her article assignments. She is a very versatile writer that can
do a phenomenal job with any type of article.
Sarah is Jasmine because the two of them are
sweet, adorable and a bit adventurous. Sarah
has been chosen to be Assistant Editor for the
2012-2013 school year. She is a very talented
addition to our team and loves writing about
various subjects including fashion and pop
culture. The editors feel Sarah will continue to
improve the Trojan Torch for years to come.
Cam Thomas
Madison Reichert
Madison and Ariel,
from The Little Mermaid, are both kind,
optimistic and curious. They both sing
like angels, and they
have loving personalities They are also both
gorgeous individuals.
We love that Maddy
joined our class for her
senior year because of
her contagious and
bubbly personality and she has a genuinely kind nature towards others.
Rachel Lampi
Cam is the sweetest, kindest, and most chivalrous young man to ever be a part of the Trojan
Torch, and this is why we have chosen him as
our Prince Charming. Cam has the ability to not
only stay on top of our class deadlines, but he
has also managed the responsibilities as the senior class president.
It was an unanimous
decision among our
editors to make Rachel, Belle from The
Beauty and the Beast.
Rachel is extremely
intelligent and studious. She is definitely
one of our most talented writers and we
know when assigning
her articles, she will
always do a fantastic
job. We were very
thankful to have her
join our staff for her
senior year.
Meet the staff
StaffSpreadPage8
Em
e
Ske ry
lton
Amy Pritt
Always full of energy, Emery brings a “go-getter” attitude to the paper that motivates those around him. He consistently puts the paper first and is an important
asset for brainstorming sessions because of his Tarzan-like enthusiasm. Emery’s
charismatic personality enthralls many members of the staff when he relates one
of his many exciting tales.
Amy continually emanates a calm and collected
attitude that sends a wave of serenity throughout
the news room. This gives her writing a smooth
and mellifluous flow Her bohemian style and chill
personality gives her the Disney alternative of
Pocahontas. Amy’s unique and exceptional taste
in music enables her to provide a new perspective
for the music section in the paper.
Andrea Mayes
Bailey scher-Columbo
Bailey has the perfect blend
of feisty and professional
that gives the news team a
lot of its character. She is
always ready with a list of
current news ideas. Her bold
and valuable opinion makes
Jesse her Disney equivalent.
Bailey is often seen cracking
jokes with her friend Andrea,
and the duo will bring a fun
atmosphere to the staff next
year as seniors.
Bethany Mann
Andrea’s sassy personality always keeps everyone
in the news room laughing and on their feet. Along
with Bailey, she constantly keeps track of all the
latest news stories. Her ambition and intuitive
intellect aide her on her journey to becoming a
hard-hitting news reporter. Andrea’s independent
persona mirrors that of Meg’s from Hercules.
Like Tinkerbell, Bethany
serves as the news team’s
efficient and adorable helper. Originally, she was our
hard-working Ads director, however, this year she
has stepped up and taken
on the role of reporter as
well. Her excellent writing
coupled with her ad selling
skills make her a versatile
and precious member of
the staff.
Meet the staff
StaffSpreadPage9
Rachel Campbell
Annie Roach
Annie’s quick wit and constantly joking state brings laughter to the news room
each day. Her “bro” status and laid back attitude makes her resemble Mulan.
Although she only joined the news staff her junior year, she worked her way up
to leadership position and has formed a mature and defined style of writing. Her
affinity for plan-making could be used to defeat the Huns, just as Mulan did.
Rachel, our mischievous editor-in-chief, is a well
loved staff member on the Torch. Don’t be fooled
by the innocent smile, she’s full of devious ideas
and adventures. This beloved leader is always ready
for exploring and getting into trouble (as long as she
doesn’t get caught!). Her genuine kindness and love
for anything new has made her an easy to love editor.
Dallas Elmore
Erica Engelby
Erica, our spunky editorin-chief, has always been
able to get the staff in line
and the deadlines met.
While she knows how to
have a good time, this editor knows when it’s time
for play and time to get
serious. How is she like
Aurora? We often find this
much loved editor asleep
in the back seat on the way
to print shop.
Mr. Manley
Dallas, truly the epitome of Peter Pan, personifies
each of his qualities in his own unique way. This
trustworthy and comical guy is soon to be leader of
the newspaper, similar to Peter’s leading of the lost
boys. Truly a child at heart, Dallas always finds a way
to kid around and have a good time in any situation.
His presence has definitely spiced up the newswriting
room this year.
Mr. Manley, the fantastic sponsor for the
Trojan Torch, is a hard
hitting newsman who
has provided a wonderful example of how
to get things done right
on a paper. His experience and funny stories
as well as lessons have
helped expand the
staff’s knowledge and
keep us on our toes.
Mr. Manley has acted
as a great mentor to
many of our budding
journalists.
LifestylePage10
How to train
your dog
As some of you Jenks
High Schoolers may know,
the newswriting staff adopted a fun loving and ornery puppy this year. While
outside of the newswriting
room he is referred to by a
different name, he is known
affectionately to the staff as
Lassie, a trustworthy and
hardworking border collie.
While everyone has
had a fun time participating in feeding, walking, and
generally caring for this pup,
we’ve had our challenges. As
by lifestyle director Annie Roach
with most new pets, there are
the general misbehaviors and
infractions. These are natural
and to be expected. Defiance
to authority is part of any
training process.
Young Lassie often
becomes frustrated with
situations and conversations.
This can be easily cured with
a simple command and some
corporal punishment.
“A good strong NO is
usually all it takes, but sometimes you just gotta smack
him with a rolled up news-
paper and squirt him with the
squirt bottle” Campbell said.
Although there are many
struggles with this dog, owning and caring for him have
been an overall treat for the
staff, a welcome joy to the
otherwise dull newswriting
room and activities.
“I always wanted a
dog!” junior reporter Andrea
Mayes said.
Having Lassie on the
newswriting staff has been
a heartwarming experience
that has made the year great.
Hey, cuties! Clementines make a splash
Annie Roach
Lifestyle Director
Clementines, the small orange
fruit similar to a tangerine (except
better) have become more and
more popular as the years have
progressed. This popular fruit,
nicknamed cuties for their size,
has captivated many, becoming a
major part of meals, snacks, and
general munching.
“I probably eat about six clementines a day. They’re just fantastic in every way,” senior Jake
Burris said.
Like Burris, many have become addicted to this little fruit.
The clementine is a great option
Girl Scouts
sweeten the
season
because it is healthy, delicious,
and easy to peel with a fresh flavor. The cutie is preferred over the
tangerine because it is seedless
and it beats out the orange because
it has less acid and is easier to
peel.
The only downside to the
clementine is the California bred
fruits are only available from
November to January. Although
many have tried to keep the sales
going longer, the fruit tends to lose
some of its desirable sweet flavor
outside of its natural growing season.
over 5 years, and has worked her way up
from a Junior Scout to a Senior Girl Scout.
She says Girl Scouts has helped her make
friends when she was little and has helped
build her up to where she is today.
Emery Skelton
Reporter
This hasn’t stopped consumers from continuing to
give them a try. Many have
high hopes for the cuties and
what they can do not only
for themselves, but for the
planet.
“Clementines have the
Every year in early spring, the scents
of the very popular Girl Scout cookies
sweep across cities all around, with a very
affordable price of $4. The season ended
in late March.
“Girl Scout cookies are sold to raise
funds for the troop and to spread happiness to this sad, sad world,” sophomore
Becky Corbin said.
Becky has been a Girl Scout for
ability to single handedly
end world hunger if we let
them,” Burris said.
As the market continues
to grow for these small fruit
hybrids, the consuming of
them by the student body
grows with it.
which are lemon cookies covered in powdered
sugar; Dosi-dos, which are oatmeal sandwich
cookies with peanut butter in the middle; Thin
Mints, which are said to be America’s favorite
and most sold cookies, that are mint cookies
covered in chocolate; Samoas, which are a plain
cookie covered in caramel, coconut, and chocolate; and Tagalongs, which are cookies covered
in peanut butter that is covered in chocolate.
Becky’s personal favorites are the Tagalongs and the Samoas.
“I don’t know how many exactly, but I’ve
sold a couple hundred boxes of cookies with
super-awesome booth sales in just one season.
Some Scouts have sold thousands at a time,”
Corbin said.
Girl Scouts have been around for many
There are only 6 types of Girl Scout
decades
and will continue to bring smiles to
cookies. These are: Trefoils, which are
many.
plain shortbread cookies; Savannah Smiles,
Lifestylepage11
Spring fashion 2012
Bright bracelets and
other unique jewelry
pieces are a great
way to accessorize a
look that adds individuality.
Adding a fun splash of color to any outfit is a perfect
way to dress for spring.
Mixing and matching hues
in skirts and shorts is also
a great idea for spring and
summer nights.
Pleated skirts and florals is
another style that has made
a comeback this season.
These can be casual with
cute gladiator sandals, or
dressed up with a more formal touch.
EntertainmentPage12
Can I get a retweet?!
Comments on Myspace, likes on
Facebook, and retweets on Twitter- with just a click of a button our
day is made simply by the acknowledgement of someone else’s online
profile, but why? Why is it that we
feel it necessary to be recognized
by popular social networking sites?
Perplexed by the ever growing fascination and attachment
to these websites, Dr. Maslow, psychology professor, did
some research on his own.
Dr. Maslow observes that “the most interesting
is how the Twitter system acts to fill a deep psychological
need in our society.” He gathers this from human history;
humans for hundreds of thousands of years have lived in a
community, from tribe to town, suburb to a busy city. From
this, it has appeared that our brains have been rewired to
operate with in a social structure and community aspect.
Due to this adaptation, we as people continue to thrive for
attention from their society and connection.
Through out his research of popular research,
Dr. Maslow references his previously established (done
through a separate research project) Maslow’s Hierarchy
of Needs . In his triangle, he explains the lowest level
of needs to humans and expands through upper levels
of higher needs. In the lower needs, self actualization is
emphasized and as the levels increase, the needs become
more social. Now a days, as Dr. David Lewis, a neuropsychologist, describes our generation, “we are the most
narcissistic age ever,” so we are more quickly fulfilling the
lower needs and advancing to our need to fulfill the higher
levels, such as social connection.
So, although we all like to appear popular and
well liked via various internet websites, we seek these
comments, likes and retweets because of our evolution
and psychologic needs. -bailey
1. Draw Something
Facebook’s
New
Timeline
PRO
Over its six years of
existence, the Facebook layout
has undergone a multitude
of changes in design and in
content. The newest, termed the
Facebook timeline, is one of the
best yet. A new photo space for a
cover photo, as well as keeping
the original slot for profile
pictures makes it easier for your
friends to see your interests,
while the timeline allows you
to see some of your posts from
years past. New features also
include smoother integration of
application notifications on your
timeline for an overall sleeker
appearance. The new Facebook
timeline becomes mandatory
soon, and many have already
made the decision to switch
layouts early. Everyone should
embrace this new upgrade!
-Rachel Lampi
CON
Do not conform to society.
The new Facebook Timeline is just
a way for Facebook to try and be
upbeat with upgrades and changes.
The new Timeline is not anything
special, just organizes everything
on your Facebook page for
everyone to stalk your entire life
all at once! Facebook creepers now
do not even have to try and find out
about you anymore, it is right there
before their eyes laid out, day by
day, allowing all users to be easily
tricked and have their privacy
dismantled; even if you do have
special security settings. The old
Facebook allows you to navigate
to everything in just a click. The
new Timeline navigation consists
of tons of scrolling and clicking.
It is said to be mandatory in the
future, so users will just have to
learn to live with it.
-Emery Skelton
Top 3 iPhone apps
Chosen by Staff
2. Chuzzles
3. Instagram
Chuzzles, an entertaining
variation of bubble blaster,
is an easy way to waste time
and use your brain to make
three or more in a row.
Instagram is a social media
unlike any other because it
solely focuses on using pictures to communicate. It offers multiple filters for users.
This fun and easy app allows
you to draw different words,
whether it be from pop
culture to animals, for your
friends to guess.
HUNGER GAMES
ReviewPage12
X Side- Peeta
Natalie Miller
Many popular books have one thing
in common, the classic love triangle.
When choosing which side to go with
in this case, the obvious choice should
be Peeta, right? I mean think about it,
he makes bread, which is good, and
he continually seems to save Katniss’ life throughout the entire series.
From the very beginning his goal
was to protect Katniss and be there for
her. Not only does he successfully do
this in all three books, but he also manages to win over the hearts of people in
the Capitol and in the districts. His way
with words is enough to make anyone
fall for him, and it becomes clear early
on that he has the heart of a gentleman.
He’s kind, patient, and has the wonderful ability to handle every situation
with understanding and determination.
So when considering which guy
to cheer on when reading this series, team Peeta is a fantastic choice!
April fool’s day
brings joy
Natalie Miller
Reporter
April Fool’s Day is a
prankster’s dream! It is the
one day where anybody has
a legitimate excuse to pull
jokes over whoever they
want, hopefully with keeping one’s safety in mind.
Some common jokes
that are done are faking
relationships on Facebook,
telling parents that you
wrecked your car, or pulling one over on a favorite
teacher. A sense of humor
is usually needed to enjoy
these pranks, and they are
an easy way to bring a smile
to someone’s face, or accidently make them very an-
gry with you. In other words,
these pranks should be done
at your own discretion.
The history that lies
behind this holiday is not
agreed upon by everyone.
However, one of the most
common theories originated in the 1500s with the
reign of Charles IX. The
Gregorian calendar was
introduced and New Years
Day was moved from April
1st to January 1st. Of course
at that time, news traveled
much slower than it does
today, and some people did
not receive this news until
years later. The people that
continued to celebrate the
holiday on April 1st were
then referred to as fools. And
that led to April Fool’s Day!
Although people disagree on where this day
comes from, one thing is
easily agreed on by most
people, that frankly, April
Fool’s Day is a great day
to freak people out. From
the early days of hiding
the teacher’s dry erase
markers in your third grade
classroom, to the more advanced pranking that seems
to come with age, people of
all ages love to watch others momentarily fear for the
worst. The important part is
to have a good wholesome
laugh at the end. It is all in
good fun after all! Now go
start planning those jokes!
HUNGER GAMES The Scorpio Races wins
the gold
Y Side- Gale
Dallas Elmore
Gale Hawthorne. Hunter. Lover.
Rebel. The perfect combination. While
Gale is often viewed as the anti-Peeta,
the second coming of President Snow,
or moodier version of Effie Trinket, he
is actually the best male character in the
book, and infinitely preferable to Peeta
Mallark.
Peeta bakes bread. Basically the
most unmanly profession a so-called
man could participate in. Gale hunts
in the wilderness for a living, taking
from nature everything a man needs and
giving nothing back. He doesn’t often
kill animals, but when he does, its usually
big, does well medium rare, and could be
used as a decorating piece in a den.
Katniss and Peeta you say? A poor
choice. Gale is obviously the superior
choice, a man among men. Peeta bakes
bread, while Gale hunts meat in the
wilderness. Peeta gives Katniss bread
from the scraps, Gale gives Katniss love
from his heart. You decide.
Rachel Lampi
M a g g i e
Stiefvater has done
it again! Following
quickly on the heels
of the Wolves of
Mercy Falls trilogy
(Shiver,
Linger,
and
Forever)
comes
a
new
stand-alone novel
by this New York
Times bestselling
author, titled The
Scorpio
Races.
And already this
novel is sweeping
the young adult
literary
market,
taking it by storm.
Puck Connolly
is an orphan living
on the island of
Reporter
Thisby with her
two brothers, Gabe
and Finn, and her
beloved
horse,
Dove. When Puck
learns that Gabe is
planning to set sail
for the mainland,
and furthermore,
that the Connollys
will lose their
house if he does,
she enlists in the
island’s
annual
Scorpio
Races
on Dove. On the
first of November,
Thisby’s men race
dangerous
and
deadly
capaill
usce, or water
horses, to win
money and glory
- and Puck will
be the first female
racer in history, a
handicap
severe
enough
without
the lack of a water
horse of her own.
But first she will
have to overcome
19-year-old Sean
Kendrick and his
prize-winning
capall usce, Corr.
Sean has won the
race four times,
and Puck must
battle her growing
feelings for him if
she hopes to win
the race, stay in
Thisby and keep
her family together.
The
Scorpio
Races is an actionpacked
adventure
of a read, full of
heart-pounding
races and intense
emotion. Perfect for
a quick weekend
read, fantasy fans, or
for people who love
horses, fans will be
rooting for Puck and
Dove the whole way,
and no doubt vying
for a sequel at the
book’s end.
Musicpage14
BOK: Bringing a The ACM awards create a new
hype for country music
banging spring
Emery Skelton
Reporter
The Bank of Oklahoma Center is grabbing attention this spring to start off the Month of April.
On the 29th, Sesame Street Live: “Elmo Makes
Music” will be featured from Mar. 29 to Apr. 1.
This children’s musical will feature Elmo, Big
Bird, the Cookie Monster, and all of the favorite
Sesame Street characters.
At the same time as Sesame Street Live, the
USA Gymnastics will be stretching out the BOK
form Mar. 30 to Apr. 1 with over 400 trampoline
and tumbling performances.
Carlos Mencia will pervert many minds on
Apr. 6th. Shortly following Mencia, the BOK will
host the famous Miranda Lambert on Apr.. 12th,
featuring her new CD “Four the Record”. She
will be accompanied by Chris Young. Tickets will
range from $25-$50.
At the end of April will be The Black Keys on
the 28th, featuring their most recent CD released
in December, El Camino, with tickets ranging
from $30-$50.
To blast off the month of May, the BOK
will host the very famous Van Halen on the 1st,
with tickets ranging from a low $27.50 to a high
$147.50. The BOK is bringing a bang to this
spring this year.
Oklahoma girl
makes her debut
Sarah Richey
Reporter
Cady Groves, a native of small town Marlow
in southwestern Oklahoma, is one of the latest
rising stars in the pop music industry. Her first real
success came when she collaborated with the group
Plug In Stereo in the song “Oh Darling.” She has
also been the opening act for two popular groups,
Never Shout Never and The Ready Set.
Groves released her first album The Life of a
Shelton mocking Taylor Swift as she humbly accepts her award.
Award show host, Blake Shelton, wins his
own prize.
Madison Reichert
Reporter
Blake Shelton and Reba McEntire got the privilege to host this years
American Country Music Awards.
Shelton had double duty, co-hosting
and performing in the show. This was
Reba’s 14th year in a row to host the
show and the second year they have
hosted together. Despite this, Shelton
was “freaking out” about hosting the
show. Even famous performers are
known to have stage fright! McEntire
claims that she was “Excited to see her
country music friends show their stuff.”
She also explained that they have 24
acts which made her and Blake’s job
much easier; less talk and more singing. Country superstars Carrie Underwood, Keith Urban, and Tim McGraw
also took the stage, along with Kenny
Chesney, who was leading the pack
with nine nominations.
Taylor Swift took home Entertainer of the Year which was expected
by all of her fans. Swift was less
taken aback as usual, considering she
is known to make overly surprised and
Pirate, in March of 2010, but shortly
after signed with RCA Records
in May, where she then moved to
California to begin writing new
songs. Her team of songwriters
includes Kristian Lunden, who has
worked with *NSYNC, Backstreet
Boys, and Britney Spears, Busbee,
who worked with Timbaland, Katy
Perry, and Lady Antabellum, and Jim
Irvin with Julian Emery, who helped
Lissie, Michelle Branch, and David
Cook.
At just 22 years old, her newest
grateful expressions. Her competitors
displayed no looks of astonishment as
she made her way to the stage to accept
her award. Blake Shelton claims, “Taylor deserves it. I don’t think there is
anyone with half a brain that would say
otherwise.” He also managed to playfully mock Taylor about her rumored
relationship with Tim Tebow. McEntire
started by talking about their publicized
date. Shelton finished by saying, “Now
we know what he’s been praying for.”
The camera shifted to Swift who had
a confused expression on her face and
silently mouthed the word “what” and
shrugged while looking embarrassed.
He continued to tease her by making
fun of her expression saying, “Oh, I
can’t believe I smell this good!” Referencing Swift’s new line of perfume.
He redeemed himself by claiming he is
happy to have her in the country music
family. Shelton was also awarded one
of the evenings most desired prizes:
Best Male Vocalist. His wife, Miranda
Lambert, won Best Female Vocalist.
hit, “This Little Girl,” has been
played on almost every radio station
since the release of the song in Sept.
2011. The song was inspired by a bad
breakup with one of her songwriters.
She contacted Blake Shelton, another
Oklahoma native, via Twitter, and
he agreed to help her with the music
video for “This Little Girl.” Her
upcoming album is set to be released
in early 2012. This summer she will
also be performing with bands such as
Good Charlotte and All Time Low on
the Bamboozle Roadshow tour.
TROJAN TORCH
The
AdsPage15
WANTS YOU!
Come by the media center in building 5,
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We are looking for dedicated, determined, and hard-working students
who would like to be a part of the school. If you can write, grab an
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iT all pays off! Guaranteed parties, and entertainment after each
period of hard work.
Questions? Comments? Concerns?
Write to our staff at our various mailbox locations
in the Media Center.
The Jenks High School Newswriting class publishes
The Trojan Torch. Editorials, staff opinions, reviews
and letters to the editor are the opinions of the individual writer and not necessarily those of The Trojan
Torch staff, its advisor or the administration. The Trojan
Torch reserves the right to edit any signed letter submitted to the paper for publication. All letters become
property of The Trojan Torch.
Please recycle when finished reading.