MESSENGERWICHITA HIGH SCHOOL EAST

2301 E. DOUGLAS AVE., WICHITA, KS 67211 // EHSMESSENGER.COM

September 4, 2009VOLUME 117, ISSUE 1

OBAMA’S HONEYMOON OVER - 5‘DISTRICT 9’ REVIEWED - 6VICK DESERVES SECOND CHANCE - 9MICHELLE OBAMA EMBRACES ACTIVST ROLE - 10

NEWS

www.ehsmessenger.com

2September 4, 2009

East will join several other high schools in USD 259 and

allowing students the ability to opt out of finals.

Well, sort of. Students may only opt out of second semester finals if they have fewer the five absences each semester and an “A” or “B” in a two semester class.

“It’s come up a lot in the past couple of years,” Ken Thiessen, principal said. “I would go into a club meeting and ask students what they thought. I would have a student in my office, and ask them what they thought.”

Although varied, students’ opinions were considered greatly in this policy.

“The assistant principals had advisory groups,” Thiessen said, who also met with students leaders from clubs such as Youth Court.

Students not only took a part in this change, but teachers and parents did as well.

“Parents were mixed,” Thiessen

said. “Teachers were mixed, but most thought the finals were necessary.”

Sara Schrader, Math instructor, is one such teacher. “It’s very important for all high school students to experience finals, no matter what their grade,” Schrader said.

Schraeder does not agree with the policy change.

“I do appreciate that our policy requires semester finals to be taken, and they are only exempt from second semester,” Schraeder said.

Students are happy with the policy, but not in its entirety.

“I like the new finals policy,” Daniel Falk, soph., said. “I think it should apply to all classes. If you meet the attendance and grade requirements, I don’t see why you should have to take finals.”

While some students find fault with the policy, others have nothing but positive things to say.

For seniors, who take finals early, being able to opt out can be helpful.

“I think it is great, actually,” Kirsten Allsap, sr., said. “Because I’m a senior, I get out earlier.”

The finals policy comes in conjunction with a complex overhaul of the finals scheduling. Finals periods will be shortened from 120 minutes to 75 minutes.

But, it is hard to tell how long this new policy will last.

“We’ll wait and see,” Thiessen said. “I would not expect to see any change for the next couple of years.”

New finals policy rewards attendance, solid gradesEVAN GOTTSTINE, REPORTER

Senior grabs top spot at forensics NationalsSUHAYLA SIBAAI, REPORTER

The Forensics squad competed at the 2009 National Forensics

league tournament, June 14-19 in Birmingham, AL. Evan Hernandez, sr., took first place nationally in Expository Speaking.

“It was a really amazing experience, definitely unlike any I have ever experienced before,” Hernandez said. “National Champion is more than I could have ever expected. I guess it was just my little goals along the way that got me there, but I was still surprised and extremely excited.”

Although Hernandez took national championship in Expository, it was actually Oration in which he had qualified for nationals. He won a National title for an event that he had never competed in before.

“It was upsetting when I didn’t advance past the preliminary rounds in Oration,” Hernandez said. “So I went into expository with a good attitude and determination.”

Only 16 national champions are crowned at the tournament each year and almost 3500 students compete.

In addition, several other East students placed at the tournament.

Wennie Wang, 2009 graduate, and Jonathan Lewallen, sr., were quarter finalists in International Extemp and finished in the top 30.

Chris Clark, sr., was a semifinalist in the House of Student Congress (one of the top 60).

Kassidee Lank, 2009 graduate, Salman Husain, jr., and Norin Ansari, 2009 graduate, all cleared and finished in the top 60.

“The only way to describe it is to say the entire experience was absolutely incredible,” Vickie Fellers, Forensics coach, said. “I consider myself the most fortunate teacher in the building. Every day I get to work with students who are eager to learn, have set high goals for themselves, and are willing to work hard to achieve those goals.”

Since the annual NFL tournament began in 1931, 78 years ago, only 28 other champions have come from the state of Kansas.

Four other champions were from USD 259. East has been recognized at the national tournament three

times in the last six years with a School of Excellence award, an award given to only about 15 schools each year.

“The competition took a back seat to the fun you are having, the people you are meeting, and the things you are learning,” Hernandez said. “I will never forget it.”

Ken Thiessen, principal, speaks to stu-dents about the new finals policy. HALEY SHELTON, PHOTOGRAPHER

MESSENGERWICHITA HIGH SCHOOL EAST

STAFFEditors-in-ChiefJohn CamenzindJeremy Koehler

WebmasterJenice Duong

Advertising ManagerSavana Cross

ReportersIan BaileyEmma GillespieLauren GraberEvan GottstineAaron HeilSalman HusainVioletta LopezKierstin McMichaelBrae MinerDonald PepoonSuhayla SibaaiJessica ThomasColin White

Head PhotographerAshley Matthews

VideographerMonique Levy

EDITORIAL POLICY“The Messenger” is published in print every two to three weeks, except dur-ing vacations, by the Journalism staff of Wichita High School East, 2301 E. Douglas Ave., Wichita, KS 67211. The Journalism department can be reached at (316) 973-7275 or by fax at (316) 973-7224.

“The Messenger” staff will publish news, entertainment, features and sports in an unbiased and professional manner and serve as a public forum for the students of Wichita High School East.

Letters to the Editor may be submitted to room W301 or by fax, and must be signed, legible and concise. The staff reserves the right to edit letters to conform to “Messenger” style. Baseless accusations, insults, libelous state-ments, obscenity, and letters which call for a disruption of the school day will not be considered for publication.

“Messenger” is the official student newspaper of Wichita High School East and it is distributed free to students. The opinions expressed in this publication reflect those of the student writers and not the Board of Education or Wichita High School East administration, faculty, or adviser.

Finals periods shortened from 120 to 75 minutes• First hour final on Dec. 16; second, fourth, and sixth will be on Dec. 17; third, fifth, • and seventh will be on Dec. 18. Students can be exempt from second semester finals with an A or a B both • semesters and five or fewer absences

POLICY CHANGES

Evan Hernandez, sr., holds his first place trophy won in Expository speaking at the National Forensics tournament in June. ASHLEY MATTHEWS, HEAD PHO-TOGRAPHER

3September 4, 2009NEWS

www.ehsmessenger.com

After a long day at school, most students rush home, leaving

the campus practically deserted other than the occasional athlete or teacher. However, earlier this week, students filled the campus after hours for a night filled with good food and fun.

The Big Do, a tradition for over 10 years, took place Sept. 2 at 5:30 p.m. on the front lawn. The Big Do not only served as an open house, but also provided clubs and organizations with a means of fund raising for the upcoming year.

“The event is first and foremost a tradition piece of East High. It has been going on since as long as I can remember,” Matthew Carroll, assistant principal, said. “It also helps to bring teachers, parents, and students together for a night of fun and good food. It connects them on a personal, social level, rather than just in the classroom.”

Another benefit of the Big Do is that it allowed clubs, sports, and other organizations to raise money for upcoming events.

“National Honors Society sold flavor-ice for the Big Do,” NHS president Ashley Murphy, sr., said. “There is talk of using the money to make a scholarship fund for students at East.”

Due to the changing date for the start of the school year, the faculty has run into problems scheduling the Big Do in recent years, forcing the event to be pushed back a few weeks to ensure that it would still serve the purpose of uniting the students and teachers.

“When the start of school got changed, we had to also change the date of the Big Do,” Carroll said. “In order to make sure students feel comfortable enough with the school to come to a social event and meet with their teachers, we wanted to schedule the Big Do about three weeks into the year. (Sept. 2) was the best day for this to work.”

Regardless of the scheduling conflicts, administrators said that the Big Do is important enough to put in the extra work.

“The Big Do is ingrained in the

tradition of East High, just as the toga dance and Mr. Ace are,” Carroll said. “It is important to

connect students and teachers in a social environment, outside the classroom.”

Big Do connects students, teachers; raises money for clubsLAUREN GRABER, REPORTER

An addition to the change in the finals policy, other new

policy changes have been made for this year. Among these are rules concerning mp3 players’ use in the hallways, a weekly extended lunch period, stricter dress code, and a new go zone.

Unlike past years, students will be allowed to use mp3 players throughout the day in the hallways without being stopped by administrators and teachers.

“It’s cool because when I listen to music in the hallway I like to drown out all the loud noises around me,” Maurice Walters, sr., said.

Extended lunch on Wednesdays have been added instead of a longer passing period after Ace time as a bonus to students who have had no more than one tardy, no hall sweeps, and no suspensions.

“It’s a way to reward students that are doing what they’re supposed to and persuade students who are constantly tardy or have discipline issues to get to class on time,” Matthew Carroll, assistant principal, said.

“It’s better than having an extended passing period because it gives us more time to hang out with our friends,” Yesenia Avitia, sr., said.

One not so popular change among the students is the strict reinforcement of the dress code.

“Although we’ve met some resistance from students, the staff wanted us to address the dress code,” Carroll said.

The new dress code demands that boys don’t sag their pants, and girls from showing too much cleavage or wearing their shorts too short. This means that the

index fingers must touch the bottom of their shorts to be deemed appropriate attire for the school environment.

“As far as the shorts go, I think it’s unfair because some girls have really long arms,” Asia Moore, sr., said.

“I’ve visited with a number of students who don’t care for the dress code,” Ken Thiessen, principal, said. “But the teachers have been very supportive.”

Teachers have met opposition from students on the dress code.

Linda White, Science instructor, sent eight students to the office for inappropriate dress during the first week alone.

“A set of standards of acceptable dress has been established by the school administration with input from both students and teachers,” White said. “As an employee, I

am given the task of enforcing all school rules without exception. All eight cases were clear cut violations of the dress code policy.”

The last change is the addition of the newest go zone, located in the science hall near the gymnasium.

“The intent was to help steer students towards getting to class on time, and to limit the number of hall sweeps and tardies in the science wing and gym,” Carroll said. “This should help speed up the transition and help those who aren’t as assertive navigate through the hallways.”

Each new policy has both pros and cons, but regardless of the popularity, they will continue to be enforced.

“It’s too early to tell if they really have an impact or not,” Thiessen said. “We’ll just have to wait and see.”

Policies changed regarding dress, traffic, lunch, mp3 useKIERSTIN MCMICHAEL, REPORTER

Richard Nguyen, sr., and Eric Bishop, sr., prepare food for Asian Club, Aug. 29. The club planned to sell the food at the Big Do to raise money for the upcoming year. ASHLEY MATTHEWS, PHOTOGRAPHER

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rock!!!!!!!!

4September 4, 2009 EDITORIAL

www.ehsmessenger.com

In February of this year, Emma Brady discovered her 11-year

marriage was going to come to an end…on Facebook.

Sites such as Facebook and Myspace have become social crutches. Relationships can be cancelled, friends deleted, and profiles hidden, all behind a computer screen. This kind of reckless social behavior hardly ever ends well.

In many cases, common decency is being completely ignored. To end a relationship, students no longer have to be mature and contact the person directly. There is no discussion or closure to the situation over the internet.

While Facebook divorces are by no means common, the limit of what is socially acceptable has completely changed and expectations have dropped. Social networks have become a breeding ground for relationship instability.

According to a recent press release from the University Guelph’s psychology department, Facebook can “lead to jealousy and suspicion for people in romantic relationships,” that the site “lacks certain context,” and “has triggered jealousy in some college students who view pictures and postings on the pages of their significant others.”

It doesn’t take a collegiate study to figure that one out.

It is clear that social degradation was not the intended purpose of these sites. On the contrary, social networks have made it easier to communicate with peers.

The source of this problem is the users themselves. Out of pure convenience, this phenomenon is becoming more acceptable.

Deleting a Facebook friend is not the mature way to handle a

problem, it’s asinine. Ending a relationship is not something to be handled over the internet.

Dealing with problems in any kind of relationship is never easy, but it is immature to substitute common decency with the technological equivalent of the cold shoulder. The appropriate approach is having the courage to have a mature discussion with the people involved.

IAN BAILEY

REPORTER

Facebook break-ups show lack of courage

Universal coverage needed to reduce costs, improve care

Twenty-two thousand people die in the US every year from

lack of health care. Swine flu is predicted to kill 90,000 people this year.

Cancer kills one in every four people. Ten thousand people lose their health insurance every day due to lost jobs.

The number of uninsured Americans has grown to over 45 million. The need for universal health care is more urgent than ever.

Many adults and children will go without health care, leaving them without medical attention when needed, resulting in death and/or further sickness.

This should not be happening in an industrialized country as prosperous as the United States.

Although it will raise taxes for the richest Americans, a public option system could save $286 billion a year in overhead and

paperwork. Just because some legislatures

have proposed to incorporate universal health care into the government system does not mean every single procedure will be controlled by the government. The doctors and hospitals are still private and not under government control. There will be standards to set apart unnecessary procedures from necessary ones

As a human race we should support one another, rather than worrying too much about money. This is one reason so many are living in poverty. America has

many resources, but because of the selfishness that lies within everyone, many are going without the attention they need.

If we did one altruistic task, the world would be a much more peaceful place.

Every person should not only have the right to live, but to flourish.

One makes a differenceEmily Ake, soph. walked around

downtown over the summer asking strangers to sign a petition in favor of universal health care.

“Some of the people were really excited to sign it, others would walk fast to avoid me, and some would even speak to me in disgust, saying things like ‘you’re just a kid; there is nothing you can do.’ But really, if every one of us walked around getting signatures we’d have enough in no time,” Ake said.

EMMA GILLESPIE

REPORTER

What’s on your bookshelf?

As summer has come to an end and another year at

school has begun, students all over America have reluc-tantly gathered their school supplies and woken up for school. Many ask, “Why do I even have to go to school?” In other parts of the world, children would give anything just to have the opportunity to get an education.

For summer reading, IB juniors were required to read “Three Cups of Tea” by Greg Mortenson and David Oliver Relin. It is the true story of how Mortenson, an American mountain climber, journeyed to Pakistan and wound up in a small village by the name of Korphe.

Mortenson writes that other than the three days a week that Korphe paid for a teacher, “the children were left alone to practice the lessons he left behind.” He asks, “Can you imagine a fourth grade class in Ameri-ca, alone, without a teacher, sitting there quietly and working on their lessons?”

The rest of the book describes how Mortenson works to build schools in the Middle East despite all the setbacks he faces. Along with education, the schools provide an alternative to joining the Taliban.

Mortenson writes, “What’s the difference between them becoming a productive local citizen and a terrorist? I think the key is education.”

Often in America, stu-dents look for ways to get out of doing their schoolwork, while in Korphe students meet on their own time to do lessons because they want to.

I urge everyone to read “Three Cups of Tea” because they will gain knowledge of how different life is in other parts of the world and appre-ciation for what Americans tend to take for granted. After reading this book, you will begin to recognize how much you actually have.

And who knows? Maybe that next homework assign-ment won’t seem quite as bad.

You mean...

I think we should take our relationship to the next level...

Yep. Let’s put it on Facebook!

DREA SHAVER, GUEST CONTRIBUTOR

DONNIE PEPOON, CARTOONIST

5September 4, 2009EDITORIAL

www.ehsmessenger.com

Obama’s honeymoon ends just months after taking office

New finals policy raises questions, leaves students unprepared for college

A new finals policy was announced to students the

first week of school in an assembly. This change allows students to be exempt from their spring semester finals.

The new policy is supposed to give hard working students a break.

Last year’s finals policy was much simpler; everyone took finals both semesters and students had more time to take the finals than they will this year. The new finals policy is more complex; to be exempt from a final students will need above average or superior grades throughout the two semesters of the year and have no more than five absences each

semester. When exempted from finals

students don’t have to attend that certain class during that final’s time period.

The old finals policy was a lot better than the new and should continue. Finals are a way of preparing students for college. It’s not a good choice for future college students to be exempt from finals,

because they may struggle when faced with them in college.

Having the exemption may create chaos in the building.

Some students will have transportation issues; some students ride buses and may not have anywhere to go while their classes are testing. Not all students have cars or transportation to leave campus and then come back to school again.

Halls need to be silent while students are taking finals, so students can’t be in the halls talking and waiting for their finals to begin.

Finals are not fun but help to improve long term retention. Second semester finals are great for

refreshing minds of material, and it also help students remember more information over the summer.

Students need to be more focused during classes; maybe the pursuit of exemption from finals will cause them to rush through their work throughout the school year, resulting in lower grades.

Some students may blow studying off, counting on not being required to take finals.

Laying off a few finals sounds like a fantastic reward for the end of the year but it takes time to get used to adjustments.

For now, this policy will benefit those students who attend school daily, get their work done, get good grades, and stay out of trouble.

Change we can believe in, huh?One man can’t change the

entire nation. President Obama’s prior position as a cultural icon manifests the placement of ill-suited, idealistic expectations on a man who dominated political and social arenas by simply advocating change. In fact, Obama received more praise and glorification before his inauguration than many who have already made a tangible difference in the life of another,-say, one or two of the 4,000 American soldiers who were killed in Iraq this past decade.

The funny thing is, Obama’s campaigning (especially in addressing the younger generation) had little to do with politics because, well, there is nothing inherently trendy or appealing about running a nation. And ironically, the “I love Barack” t-shirts sported so frequently last

fall seemed to fizzle out of the fashion scene once he took office on Jan. 21.

Perhaps this is because Obama failed to provide any stipulations, such as how exactly he intended to bring about (or finance) the proposed, and undefined, change. Little things, such as his plan to contribute a generous $1 trillion to the federal deficit, would have been nice to know about before the November elections.

Instead, something similar to the following occurred: the media giddily welcomed Change with a red carpet, flashing cameras, all of the appropriate glitz and glam and adoration; her manager did say she would come, after all. Then, a no show. Reality quickly stepped into her place. Neither attractive nor invited, but nonetheless present; she’s here to stay and refuses to be ignored.

Meanwhile, the economy keels over in an uncomfortably stagnant position, the health care system scoffs at any form of imminent relief, and for the first time, more Americans disapprove of Obama’s handling of these domestic issues than favor them. And yet somehow, his disposition as a universal symbol of hope is impregnated with natural allure.

Obama thrives

off of an ear-to-ear wide grin, an inspiring past, and optimistic speeches: a rigid contrast to the nation’s former commander-in-chief. Practicing the life of a walking, breathing historic phenomenon helps too. Despite the incredible triumph of becoming the first African-American to gain the title of presidency, the most prominent racial barriers in the U.S. were tackled nearly half a century ago and the media should have placed more emphasis on Obama’s intentions to fulfill his promises than the color of his skin.

All things considered, the ballgame hasn’t changed much from that of the 1930’s. FDR’s New Deal

policy was widely glorified and extolled and although he quickly established a number of beneficial institutions-among them the Social Security Act and our current welfare system-his policies did not rescue the country from the Depression.

The war, however, did-the same one in which he initially pledged to maintain neutrality. The context of the wars too easily affirms the difference of the times, but by viewing the big picture, a rather lucid similarity lingers. Both received unjust credit due to a belief in transparent words.

So, what can we believe in? Looks like the answer changed.

VIOLETTA LOPEZ

REPORTER

BRAE MINER

REPORTER

25

50

75

100

125

Approve Disapprove

107

28

Out of 135 East students polled, over three-fourths said they approve of President Obama’s performance to date.

Support at East remains strong

10

20

30

60

50

40

70

80

100

90

Jan. Feb. March April May June July Aug.

*Information courtesy of www.realclearpolitics.com

A national poll shows that the approval rate of Obama’s job performance has dropped slightly, while the rate of disapproval has signfi cantly increased.

Approve % = Disapprove % =

Monthly National Approval DeclinesMonthly national approval declines

6September 4, 2009 ENTERTAINMENT

www.ehsmessenger.com

From the blues styles of Joe Bonamassen to the popular

alternative rock of Boys Like Girls, there is something for everyone in the lineup of concerts coming this season.

The Cotillion will host a wide variety of shows, beginning with the country group Marshall Tucker Band, Sept. 26. For some people, the heavy rhythms and distorted riffs of Lamb of God will be the highlight of the season, Oct. 8, and for others it will be the soft piano playing of Ben Folds, Oct. 25.

After October’s shows, Insane Clown Posse will kick off November with a live appearance at the Cotillion, Nov. 7, almost finishing off the Cotillion’s fall run.

For fans of oldies or blues, Old Town’s Orpheum Theatre will be the place to be with appearances by two lesser known, classic

musicians. Johnny Rivers, an oldies musician from the 1970’s, will appear live, Sept. 26 and will be followed by blues guitarist Joe Bonamassen, Oct. 15.

Fans of comedy will also enjoy something this season, apart from

all the music. Bob & Tom’s comedy crew will finish off the Cotillion’s line up, Nov. 13.

The ever famous Jeff Foxworthy will perform at the Hartman Arena Oct. 9, which will also be a definite show to see.

The Hartman Arena will be a location many will flock to on Sept. 17. Boys Like Girls will perform live, and it would be wise to obtain tickets early due to the sheer popularity of the band.

Something for everyone coming to Wichita venues

Aliens on earth. “District 9,” the newest alien

movie to hit theaters, brings something more than fighting and blood; it brings a message.

Written and directed by Neill Blomkamp, this movie is based in Johannesburg, South Africa. As a native, Blomkamp brings the history of this land (and the message) into this Sci-fi/Fantasy movie, and exposes the discrimination in our society.

The aliens, known as Prawns, are now refugees in the poverty

dwelling area titled District 9 after coming to Earth 28 years previously. The Prawns are being discriminated against and want to go home, however, the government wishes to use them and their weapons for themselves.

Agencies of the government are fascinated with the concept of only the Prawns being able to handle their own equipment.

After nearly three decades, the inhabitants of South Africa are tired of the occupation of the Prawns, and Multi-National

United (MNU) intervenes to evict and relocate the aliens to a new place so they can still be used in experiments. MNU, a private organization, will earn a substantial profit if they can turn the Prawns into weapons for the government.

Wikus van der Merwe, played by Sharlto Copley, is the MNU field operative responsible for relocating the Prawns. While Wikus evicts two Prawns, he contracts a mysterious virus that changes his DNA, making him the most hunted

man in the world. No longer able to trust anyone, there is only one place for him to turn and hide- District 9. ...Blomkamp brings the his-tory of this land into this Sci-fi/Fantasy movie, and exposes the discrimination in our society.

This one hour and 53 minute movie is filmed as a documentary. Therefore a great deal of camera movement occurs, which leaves the eyes demanding a break. Then the eyes get engaged with the fighting that occurs between Prawns and humans, and plenty of the fighting occurs.

It takes the movie at least 30 minutes for the action to begin, but when it does the viewer will be amazed with Copley’s acting and the visual effects. In one scene the main Prawn tries to activate the mother ship, showing that computer technology can make anything seem real.

The movie watcher might be disturbed with the gore and torture, but surprised with the unexpected ending, encouraging reflection on the poignant message that our culture needs to change.

Though the movie is rated R for bloody violence and pervasive language, the solid ratings and rave this movie has received from audiences and movie critics is justly deserved.

COLIN WHITE, REPORTER

ASHLEY MATTHEWS, REPORTERDocumentary based movie makes statement in ‘District 9’

Aliens take on a new look in this summer’s latest hit, “District 9.” Photo courtesy of IMDb.com.

Lamb of God, Boys Like Girls, and Ben Folds are only a few of the many bands coming to Wichita venues this fall.

7September 4, 2009ENTERTAINMENT

www.ehsmessenger.com

Kansas State Fair management prepares for busy seasonJESSICA THOMAS, REPORTER

Sept. 11- Sept. 20

13

20-Colgate Country

Showdown Tal-ent Competition

-Guitar Hero Tournament

14 -Kansas March-

ing Band Com-petition

-Demolition Derby

15 -The Bypass

Concert-Gaither Vocal

Band Concert

16-Cavallo Eques-

trian Acrobats-Outlaw Truck

and Tractor Pull

11-Opening Cer-

emony-Tesla Concert

17-Arabian Horse

Show-Freestyle Mx

Concert

18-Chainsaw Artist-Hinder with

Saving Abel Concert

12-Midway Opens -Montgomery

Gentry Concert

19-Glenda and

Mike’s Magic Show

-Heart Concert

sunday

The long-standing Kansas tradition famous for its deep-fried treats, pig races, and life-size butter statues is back.

That’s right, folks, the Kansas State Fair will be held Sept. 11-20 at the fairgrounds in Hutchinson. The State Fair is the largest attraction in Kansas, with over 350,000 visitors from every part of the state.

A main component of the State Fair is its competitions. Over 30,000 entrants compete in hundreds of different categories. In addition to these contests, arm-wrestling and text-messaging competitions will be available for amateurs. Performances by various acts such as chainsaw artists and celebrity goat milkers will be

highlights.The 2009 Adrenaline Jam Tour is

perfect for those interested in video games.

Some of the main draws of the fair are musical entertainment and acts. In recent years, the management of the State Fair has tried to increase attendance by finding concerts that appeal to all age groups.

“The process usually starts shortly after the completion of the (previous year’s) State Fair,” General Manager Denny Stoeckline, said. ([Entertainment Agency) Romeo provides us a list of potential acts for the coming year and we provide them suggestions based on feedback we’ve had from fairgoers.”

Big name acts at the fair include Hinder, Montgomery Gentry, and Heart.All tickets are affordable, ranging from $5 for the Demolition Derby to $30 for the bigger concerts.

The State Fair wouldn’t be complete without the food. Highlights include funnel cakes, turkey legs, and fried candy bars, as well as new tastes like pretzels on sticks.

With the recession having an impact on the Kansas economy, families who regularly attend the State Fair are struggling to make ends meet. Stoeckline encourages fairgoers to look into ticket packages that include all costs in one price.

“We’re optimistic it will be a

strong year,” Stoekline said. “Some fairs that have already taken place this year have seen positive attendance numbers as people are treating the Fair as their ‘staycation’ or ‘daycation.’ Perhaps a family didn’t take a big family vacation, so they’re treating the Fair as their getaway.”

Trying to attract younger fair-goers, Stoeckline emphasized that the fair is a social experience.

“The Fair has so much that appeals to the younger generation: 40+ midway rides, the Interactive Game Experience, tons of animals for the younger kids, plus the petting zoo and birthing center,” Stoeckline said. “The Fair’s a great social opportunity where teenagers can hang out with friends.”

monday tuesday wednesday thursday friday saturday

PHOTO COURTESY OF KANSAS STATE FAIR

-Motorcyle Parade

-Huey Lewis and the News Concert

Tickets will be available to the State Fair at the following prices:Discount before Sept. 10: $5 At the gate: $8Season pass (one entry each day): $30Meal ticket: $122 Midway tickets: $22Monday, Sept. 14, is Dollar Day, where admission is only a dollar, or with a Dillon’s Plus Card, free.

More information on the Kansas State Fair can be found at several social networking sites:www.twitter.com/KansasStateFair/www.kansasstatefair.wordpress.comwww.myspace.com/ksstatefairwww.youtube.com/user/KansasStateFairThe State Fair also has a Facebook page.

Kenneth Woods

• •

Peace of Mind Agency

8September 4, 2009 SPORTS

www.ehsmessenger.com

CROSS COUNTRYBoth the girls and boys team advanced to the State • meet last season.The boys cross country team lost four runners to gradu-• ation, and the girls did not lose any key runners.The boys and girls team conditioned together this sum-• mer; practice started at 5:30 a.m. three days a week.Both teams are getting ready for meets by practicing in • both the morning and after school.

JEREMY KOEHLER, EDITOR-IN-CHIEFAARON HEIL, REPORTER

Fall Fever

Phoenix Keane, sr., runs at cross country Regionals, Oct. 18, 2008. “We have a lot of new people who are very talented,” Keane said. JACOB HEIL, PHOTOGRAPHER

Andrea Sanders, jr, putts on Sept. 16, 2008. “We have new attitudes, new expectations, and our girls have higher hopes,” Sanders said. LAURA GARCIA, PHOTOGRAPHER

Brooke Johnson, jr, serves against North, Sept. 9, 2008. “I know a lot of girls practiced over the summer,” Johnson said. “I hope they got better.” PIE PICHETSURNTHORN, PHOTOGRAPHER

VOLLEYBALLAfter a 10-16 record in the regular season, the team • finished third in the GWAL post-season tournament.The summer conditioning program picked up this • offseason and over 40 girls attended regularly. Head coach Randi Godown will count on the experi-• ence of players like Brittany Walker, sr., and Lauren Wiebe, soph., to lead a young team.

FOOTBALLAfter a 6-3 campaign last season, the team will have to find a replacement • for graduate All-American running back Bryce Brown.They will try to reach the State playoffs for the first time under head coach • Brian Byers. Along with a new quarterback, Erick Heiman, sr., the Aces have four new • starting offensive linemen.

GOLFThe team has lost two golfers to graduation.• Four new players have joined the team.• The team is putting in more time at practice, playing five • holes instead of two every day.The girls season will begin Sept. 8 at Auburn Hills Golf • Course.

TENNIS

Girls tennis has a new coach, Laurel Scott.• The team has been conditioning for the upcoming season.• Tennis players have been improving their skills over the • summer.There is more of a focus on teamwork.• Team captains Emma Stout, sr., Brooke Johnson, jr., Kelly • Redler, jr., and Drea Shaver, jr., will lead the team.

SOCCERThe team has been training hard during the off season.• Nine starters will return this year.• New additions like Oliver Bradwell, sr., will help the team. • The team intends to vie for the City League title.• The team will be led by captains Matt Mally, sr., Gary • Rodriguez, sr., and Spencer Crouch, jr.

Rodriguez defends the goal in a game against West, Sept. 18, 2008. “We’re gaining more players,” Rodriguez said. “Players got better over the summer playing club.”BRIANNA HOPSON, PHOTOGRAPHER

Erick Heiman, sr., drops back to pass at practice, Aug. 24. Heiman will be the starting quarterback after three years as a backup. “I’m looking forward to finally showing what I can do,” Heiman said.CASSIE FAGEN, PHOTOGRAPHER

Walker spikes the ball in a match against South, Sept. 23, 2008. East won the match in two sets. JUAN RIVERA, PHOTOGRAPHER

Teams prepare for upcoming season

9August 17, 2009SPORTS

www.ehsmessenger.com

New regulations for summer practicing have first been

implemented this past summer in an effort to help create a level playing field for all sports and ensure student athletes aren’t worn out from training.

The new rules, created by the Kansas State High School Activities Association, now allow coaches of all sports to work their kids during the summer. Previously football, basketball, and volleyball coaches

could not, while the coaches of other sports were able to.

The rules also were made with the student athlete in mind, shortening the practice schedule to ensure student-athletes, especially those who participate in more than one sport, do not “burn out” from working too hard. East Athletic Director Kevin Hartley welcomes the changes.

“I like all of the sports being on the same schedule, it creates an

even playing field,” Hartley said. “The positive is all the coaches can work with the kids in the summer now.”

Coaches will also be able to instruct their kids in summer leagues such as MAYB and AAU. This will allow coaches to fine tune their team in competitive leagues and prepare their kids for City League play.

Some student athletes don’t like the changes to the rules. Spencer

Crouch, jr., feels the new rules create too big a gap between summer practice and fall tryouts.

“I don’t like how there’s a gap between conditioning and tryouts,” Crouch said. “It should be longer so we don’t get out of shape right before tryouts begin.”

Previously summer practice lasted until July 30, while the new rules shortened the schedule to end by July 18. While some students dislike the changes, Kyle Sheahan, jr., appreciates the changes.

“It’s a good way to get in shape before the start of soccer season, but also have time to get ready for school,” Sheahan said. “I like having a break before school to relax and get ready academically.”

The first day of practice for most teams was August 17, the first day of school.

“Its great that all the coaches have a choice to help their kids in the summer,” Hartley said. “It makes evrything fair.”

Changes to KSHSAA rules allow increased summer practice time for some sportsDONNIE PEPOON, REPORTER

Vick has earned second chance by doing all the right things

As a convicted dogfighter, Michael Vick is an unlikely spokesman

for the Human Society, the nationwide animal rights group.

After serving his 23 month federal prison sentence in Leavenworth, Kansas, Vick contacted Humane Society President and CEO Wayne Pacelle, offering to work on behalf of the group toward reducing animal cruelty in inner-city communities.

Vick has done and said all the right things since he was released from prison on May 20. Second chances are not given freely, but I believe he has earned.

The crimes Vick committed were horrendous. The dogs involved with Bad Newz Kennels, the dogfighting

operation Vick bankrolled, were not only put in the ring to fight, they were brutally killed if they failed. There is no questioning the severity of the crime.

Vick is being offered another opportunity by the NFL. The Philadelphia Eagles have signed him to a one-year contract and Commissioner Roger Goodell has said he will consider allowing Vick to play starting the sixth week of the regular season.

Some fans are angry Vick is being offered a second chance, believing either he hasn’t proven his remorse or that his crimes were unforgivable.

Often, we have seen athletes, politicians, and entertainers publicly apologize for sketchy behavior. Vick’s was one of the more believable ones, he came across sincere in both his apology and his appearance on “60 Minutes.”

Former Indianapolis Colts coach and renowned nice-guy Tony Dungy became Vick’s mentor and spiritual guide during Vick’s time in prison,

and has since publicly vouched for his changed character.

Time will show Vick’s sincerity

in his commitment to the Humane Society and turning his life around.

JOHN CAMENZIND

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Michael Vick, coach Andy Reid, and mentor Tony Dungy hold a press conference anouncing Vick’s contract with the Philadelphia Eagles

10September 4, 2009 FEATURE

www.ehsmessenger.com

Michelle Obama assumes various roles, engages in activist agenda

The New York Daily News calls her a super woman.

But she feels more comfortable calling her self the “mom-in-chief.” Regardless, Michelle Obama is a woman who fulfills a diverse set of roles and positions.

To some, she is the woman who lives in the White House, while others recognize her as a fashion icon. An interesting aspect of Obama’s life is her job as an ac-tivist. She has played a vital role in addressing numerous issues of national interest and encouraging a spirit of community service.

After becoming First Lady, she has addressed healthy living, as-sisting military families, balance between employment and family life for women, national service, women’s concerns and opening up the White House to the com-munity.

Many criticize Obama for her different images, especially when she adopted an “activist agenda.” Anthony J. Eksterowicz, professor at James Madison

University, also noted the versa-tile role of the First Lady.

“They really face a lot of contradictions, Eksterowicz said. “They’re not elected, they’re not paid for the job that they do, yet they have an increasingly professional staff that becomes increasingly integrated with the White House, which leads you toward that activism, even if you don’t want it.”

Obama, however, isn’t the only first lady to embrace an activist image. Former first ladies such as Eleanor Roosevelt, Jaqueline Kennedy, Nancy Reagan and

Hillary Clinton, among others, were known to take on projects such as women’s rights, White House restoration and various foreign policy endeavors.

As Obama continues to execute her activist agenda, it is increas-ingly clear that she has started to join the ranks.

joining theranks

Photo by MCT Campus: Joyce Boghosian

Born: January 17, 1964 in Chicago, Il-linois as Michelle LaVaughn Robinson

Political Party:Democratic Party

Religion:Proteston Christian

Primary Education:In her sixth grade, she entered the “Gifted Program.” Because of her academic record of excellence, she was invited to Whitney Young Mag-net High School, where she took advanced placement classes, was a member of National Honor Society and served as Student Council Treasurer.

Secondary Education:Obama graduated from Princeton University with a bachelor’s degree in Sociology and a minor degree in African American studies,

Post-Graduate Education:Obama graduated from Harvard University and earned a Juris Doctor degree from Harvard Law School.

Marriage:Michelle Robinson married Barack Obama on October 3, 1992.

Children:Obama has two daughters: Malia (born July 4, 1998) and Natasha (born June 7, 2001).

First Lady:Obama has identified three primary areas of public interest to devote attention to: providing support for military families, helping working mothers with family and employ-ment commitments and encouraging community service.

Information accessed from firstladies.org.

Activist

CommunityServiceOrganizer

FashionIcon

First Lady

Mom

Politician

Question: Students were asked what category or classification they would most associate with Michelle Obama?

107 East High Students were polled for this survey

Obama met with students from the “Dear Michelle” campaign at the University of California on March 16 for the 2009 graduation ceremony in Merced, California. Photo by MCT Campus, Marci Stenberg

The Obamas attended the opening of the NATO summit at the Karhaus in Baden-Baden, Germany on April 3. Obama is pictured among important foreign policy leaders including political leaders of Ger-many and France and NATO officials. Photo by MCT Campus Hakki Akduman

Michelle Obama and First Lady of Califor-nia Maria Shriver visited Bret Harte Elementary school to encourage volunteer-ing and community service in San Francisco,California, June 22. Photo by MCT Campus Maria J. Avila acts

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