nkc buzz > vol 78, issue 3
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North Kansas City High School Buzz, Dec. 14, 2011TRANSCRIPT
HORNET’S BUZZT H
E
OFFICIAL STUDENT-RUN PUBLICATION OF NORTH KANSAS CITY HIGH SCHOOL, NORTH KANSAS CITY, MO.
VOLUME 78 > ISSUE 3 > DEC. 14 , 2011 > WWW.NKCBUZZ.COM
3 4 NEWS:AP College Biology discovers bacteria 10 FEATURES:
Your tips: how to survive finals 11 SPORTS:
Winter sports season gets started
INSIDE THIS ISSUE:
FOUNTAINS AT CROWN CENTER, COVER PHOTO BY: LAUREN WILLIAMS
NEWS:Journalism goes to Minnesota
2|news The Hornet’s Buzz
They’re here to help.That’s the main message both
the members and the sponsor of the Gay Straight Alliance want to get across.
The GSA, sponsored by counselor Nancy Kelso, is made up of about ten students. They meet on Wednesdays after school at the local community center.
Students talk, watch videos or news clips on topics concerning sexuality, and visit web sites that provide resources or support to teens.
They also attend social events, such as meeting GSA students from other schools, which they did in November.
The club has been around for three years. French and Theory of Knowledge teacher Chad Lower was the sponsor until this year, when he handed it over to Kelso.
“No one was interested. Only a few people ever came,” Lower said, citing his explanation for ending his involvement with the group. “I think Ms. Kelso does a better job.”
According to Kelso, the GSA’s mission is to nurture a supportive environment in the Northtown community.
The GSA marched as a walking float in the Homecoming Parade, carrying a banner reading ‘It gets better’, a popular message to gay or questioning teens.
They hope to participate in the National Day of Silence this spring.
The Day of Silence, occurring on April 20, requests students to take a vow of silence to raise awareness of anti-LGBT bullying and harassment.
Senior Jalyn Dewer enjoys being a part of GSA.
“I love the fact that I can help people who don’t understand that people can be different, and help them be less close-minded,” she said.
Dewer thinks GSA is important, because “there’s a lot of people in this world who don’t understand what it means to have a different sexuality, and that it’s not bad.”
She added that GSA is a safe place where students can go without being judged.
Junior Christina Blake Meier likes GSA because she can get active in the gay community.
In Meier’s opinion, the club is significant “because it helps a lot of kids who are going through a rough time, and lets them know there are people to support them.”
Kelso, Dewer, and Meier all encourage students to join GSA.
“Anyone questioning or exploring their sexuality and who wants a safe place” should come, Kelso said.
Erin Niederbergercopy editor
Gay Straight Alliance offers support
Future Business Leaders of America is the oldest and largest business student organization in the world. Northtown has been a part of this organization for 6 years.
Northtown’s FBLA club is sponsored by Lonzo Boles, who is also a finance and business teacher.
Senior Stajheri Jackson has been in FBLA for three years. Jackson is also the President of FBLA.
“FBLA combines Business ethics, community service, and Education together,” said Jackson.
The students in the FBLA organization at Northtown are very involved in our community.
They have participated in Beautification Day and have cooked dinner for the Ronald McDonald House.
Students will also be participating in Christmas in the Park.
The FBLA students also participate in competitions. These competitions consist of making business plans, taking tests, or going to an interviewing session.
“If your interested in going into business, FBLA is for you,” said Jackson
Boles has been the sponsor for FBLA for six years, and it still amazes him how dedicated his students are.
“I’ve learned that student can do what they want to do,” said Boles.
Get more information about FBLA on FBLA.org.
FBLA lends out helping handsTierra Samuelstaff writer
She stressed that GSA could be a place of support for those facing non-supportive family members.
Even if students are intimidated because they think there is a stigma attached, they
should try attending.Dewer added, “We need
more members. All you can do is come, have fun, and have serious discussions. We’re here if you need anyone else to talk to.”
It gets better. Members of the Northtown Gay Straight Alliance march in the Homecoming Parade in September. The club has been around for three years, although this is the first time they’ve made an appearance in the parade. The GSA carried a banner to encourage and support LGBT teens.
TAYLOR STEEN
Helping out one hand and mind at a time. Juniors Ayuel Bol, Kevin Nguyen, and Ron Wilson help fix a chili dinner for families at Ronald McDonald’s House. Ronald McDonald’s House is an organization that provides housing for families with children in local hospitals during long-term stays.
PHOTO COURTESY OF LONZO BOLES
Dec. 14, 2011 news|3
On Nov. 17 - 20, the Newspaper and Yearbook classes from the North Kansas City School District attended the Fall National High School Journalism Convention, sponsored by the Journalism Education Association (JEA) and National Scholastic Press Association.
Last year, the convention was in Kansas City at Bartle Hall, but this year it was in Minneapolis, Minn.
Northtown, Oak Park, Winnetonka and Staley all rode a charter bus together.
The bus left Kansas City at 4:30 in the morning and reached Minneapolis at 1 p.m.
The ride home, however, took longer because a snow storm hit Minneapolis just as the bus was leaving.
Despite the long ride, senior newspaper editor Lauren Williams enjoyed the bus trip.
“It brought me closer to both of the staffs and although we were all tired, it was an amazing time and memory,” said Williams.
The JEA Conference had over 100 classes that covered everything from caption writing to how different design software can be used.
Each seminar was taught by a speaker and had anywhere from 50 students to over 200 depending on the subject.
Other conferences were held specifically for editors to talk to each other on how to improve publication quality and staff morale.
“My favorite class was the editors’ class, because I got a chance to relate with other editors and talk about problems. I’ve faced, and they would give me their opinion on how to solve the problems,” said senior yearbook editor Daniell Hernandez.
“I liked going to the advertising class because it gave me a lot of ideas,” said junior yearbook staff member Taylor Steen.
“I wanted to see how the other schools were covering the year; homecoming can be done a thousand different ways,” said sophomore Matthew Gutierrez.
Another large part of the conference was the competitions. Each staff member from Northtown participated in at least one competition.
There were several categories that staff members could participate in: caption writing, photography, carry-in design contests (competitors were given material to create before to bring in), and story writing.
Senior Armand Clemoens won an Honorable Mention award in his competition category, Yearbook Sports Caption and Story Writing.
“I was pleasantly surprised to find out that I won honorable mention. I wasn’t sure about how well I did,” Clemoens said.
The JEA conference also had activities for the attendees to participate in while in Minneapolis.
On Friday, Nov. 19, there was a dance that students could attend, and on Saturday, there was a screening of the musical “Newsies.”
Several students decided to check out the dance.
“When Armand and I first went, we were weird but became the life of the party,” said junior newspaper staff member Emily Anthony.
When students weren’t in classes or competitions, they walked in downtown Minneapolis to see the sights, and took a trip to the Mall of America.
“I loved making build-a-bears with my bear buddies Elizabeth and Lauren at the mall. I also loved watching “School of Rock,” playing Uno, and reading books about philosophy in the basement of a really cool old book store that we found,” said Anthony.
Let it snow Yearbook staff members Matthew Gutierrez and Nicki Grant play in the snow at the JEA conference. The national convention was held in Minneapolis, and eight students from North Kansas City High School journalism staffs attended.
DANIELL HERNANDEZ
North Kansas City High School’s debate team hosted an invitational during the weekend of Nov. 18-19.
The invitational included over 500 students and 28 different schools, packing Northtown’s cafeteria, hallways, and auditorium.
Over Friday and Saturday the debate team and forensics participated in over 22 hours of organization, time keeping, ballot intake, judge arrangement, and “tabs”, the counting of ballots and records.
Debaters and individuals participated in 14 events including forensic Individual Events, Policy
debate, Public Forum debate, and Lincoln-Douglas Debate.
Northtown’s teacher and debate coach, Mr. Martin, was the head chair of judges and tab counting.
“It was hard, time consuming, and energy draining. But we did it and had success with flying colors. I am very proud of my debate team. Without their help or the help of other teachers, this event would have been an utter disaster,” said Martin.
DECA organized and ran concessions in the South Cafeteria and forensic teachers hosted the hospitality room for teachers and judges.
In the end, Liberty High School took first in Sweepstakes of points.
Ready, set, debate: Northtown hosts tourneyMatthew Howertonstaff writer
Journalism travels to MinneapolisElizabeth Craigdesign editor
Speak now Sophomore Madeline Hazen calls out codes of students entered into extemporaneous speaking under the supervision of North Kansas City teacher Ms. Durrill. Domestic and foreign extemporaneous is an individual event of the National Forensics League that is a speech concerning drawn questions about United States and international problems and/or events. “It was so crazy, I had a blast. I would love to do it again,” said Hazen.
MATTHEW HOWERTON
4|news The Hornet’s Buzz
The AP College Biology class’s surprising discovery of bacteria around Northtown has opened many peoples’ eyes to our environment.
In late October, AP College Biology students studied prokaryotes, single celled organisms that do not have membrane-bound organelles, taught by Mrs. Helwig. To study these cells, they got into the surrounding environment.
The class of seniors and juniors investigated Northtown and the metro for bacteria. Students swabbed areas such as seats, door knobs, lake water, and gas pumps and let the bacteria grow on petri dishes in an incubator.
When the bacteria grew to a
noticeable size, students ‘Graham stained’ the samples of bacteria using a type of Iodine dye for a lab grade.
This caused the samples to reflect bright purple or bright pink light for indication of cell walls under a microscope.
Graham’s positive shows harmless bacteria and Graham’s negative represents a potential pathogenic characteristic.
There were a wide range of discoveries throughout the campus and the metro.
Swab tests showed staphylococcus swarming in the fieldhouse bleachers, E. coli covering gas handles, creepy crawlers in the art basement, and spotless water fountains.
“It is fascinating and absolutely disgusting at the same time. Getting gas will never be
What you touch, what you don’t know
Mad scientist training Students use Graham’s iodine dye staining to indicate certain cell walls of bacteria for later study under a microscope. After the dye application, the colors showed bright pink and purple colors for visual interpretation of classification, determination, and bacterium study.
MATTHEW HOWERTON
Wash your hands Growth of E. coli bacteria is evaluated by junior Alanna Cone on a petri dish under magnification and light exposure. This was grown in an incubator from a swab at a local QuikTrip gas handle where Cone went past the expectations for the lab. Cone said, “I adore studying bacteria in our environment. It’s kind of crazy that you don’t know what you touch.”
MATTHEW HOWERTON
Listen up Teacher Ms. Helwig instructs students on lab steps in AP College Biology. The lab had multiple steps that had to be taken with supervision, critique, studying, and broad thinking. “I absolutely love my students. They’re great, and this lab was perfect for learning and hands-on students. This curriculum is extremely difficult and rigorous,” said Helwig.
MATTHEW HOWERTON
Matthew Howertonstaff writer
One Homeless Night event raises awarenessStormy Allenstaff writer
The brisk November air whipped against flushed faces as everyone huddled together by the fire.
Cardboard boxes surrounded Northtown’s courtyard, but the wind blew away the boxes these kids temporally called ‘home.’
One Homeless Night is an event for NKC students to eat soup and realize just what it means to not have a place you can call home.
Every year, more than two million teenagers face a period of homelessness, and over 40 percent are under the age of 18.
These students may only have to experience it for four hours, but the truly homeless kids face the difficulties of it every day.
“Out of this year, I’ve re-seen at least 75 to 80 percent of our kids,” said
Synergy staff member Anthony Tyler, who volunteered to guest speak for One Homeless Night.
Being a homeless teen is far from easy. Teenagers today seem to take for granted what they have and don’t realize how blessed they are to have a family and a home.
“It’s a lot different now
because we’re with a lot of people,
but when you’re homeless you’re all alone; that’s probably the hardest part,” said sophomore Abbie Mason.
Everyone listened intently to Tyler as he told them all about Synergy and what they do to best help the homeless teens.
“Fifty percent of these kids won’t make it to see their 20th birthday,” said Tyler. Sad faces were clearly displayed at this fact.
Tyler asked who knew or had known someone who was homeless and over half the group raised their hand.
The sudden realization of
just how serious this matter was seemed to make a really big impact of everyone who attended.
“You feel like no one loves you,” said junior Treasure Nye when asked what she thought was the hardest part of being homeless.
“When it’s winter and it’s freezing cold outside and you have nowhere to go,” said sophomore Hannah Leach.
After everyone had finished their soup, and the guest speaker finished his speech, everyone once again huddled around the fire and let it all soak in.
“It’s a lot different now because we’re with a
lot of people, but when you’re homeless you’re
all alone; that’s probably the hardest part.”
-Abbie Mason
the same. I definitely keep hand sanitizer in my car now,” said junior Alanna Cone, who tested for E. coli on gas handles at the local QuikTrip.
Senior Josephine Gicho said, “Participating in this lab was a great learning process for discovering bacterial environments and cell structures. I am more tedious and cautious about what I touch and what I handle on a regular day-by-day basis.”
Shocking bacteria such as staphylococcus was swabbed from Northtown’s own fieldhouse bleachers by senior Delaney Hall.
“Absolutely insane!” Hall said. “I never thought that such an awesome lab would yield such disgusting results.”
Dec. 14, 2011 news|5
“I just like coming to class!”EMILY ANTHONY
Julie is a Spanish student. “I enjoy it because it’s interesting to learn about other people’s cultures.”
EMILY ANTHONY
“I like science because you can use some of it in your everyday life and it is used to help people. Everybody
can understand it, it’s just about how hard you try.”
EMILY ANTHONY
FOREIGN LANGUAGE:
Julie Youngers
SCIENCE:
Janne Fuss
NORCLAY BUNCH:
Caleb Roby
“I like English because it helps you speak properly. It helps you communicate
your ideas.”
EMILY ANTHONY
COMMUNICATION ARTS:
Roosevelt Broome IV
BUSINESS AND TECHNOLOGY:
Phil Donnelly
FACS:
Max Irby
“I like it because it’s working with your hands and creating things.”
“My teacher calls me her ‘buffer child,” because I’m versatile and I’m able to do many things.”
EMILY ANTHONY
EMILY ANTHONY
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6|features The Hornet’s Buzz
Making decisions: seniors face deadlines for life after high school
You’ve spent hours on this - sweating over every word, having countless teachers and family members look it over. This step, however, no one can help you with.
You take the mouse and, taking a deep breath, click submit. There’s no going back now. Your college application is on its way.
Early December marked the deadline for many college and scholarship applications.
Many seniors have wrapped up a long college search and application process, sending their last bits of paperwork off with crossed fingers.
Senior Micah McQuerry used lots of interest tests to find a good fit, and also visited many campuses.
He had difficulty at first because he hadn’t picked his major, which is an important part of finding a good college.
The scariest part of the process, in his opinion, was taking the ACT. In the end, however, he took the simple approach.
“My mom took me to a college visit, they had my major, and I applied,” McQuerry said.
Analyssa Lopez tried a more hands-on approach in her search. She used resources on collegeboard.com to match colleges to her requirements, and also visited several college fairs.
“There are so many colleges to choose from, and every college sounds like fun,” Lopez said. “The scariest part is trying to narrow it
down and thinking I might miss something.”
Although college is the popular destination for Northtown students, some want to break the mold.
Senior Esmir Drnda planned to take a year off to travel Europe. However, his parents wanted him to go to college, so he’ll probably compromise by going to college in Europe.
He’s applied to several local colleges already, as well as some European ones he toured during a trip to Europe last year.
What was the scariest part for him?
“Thinking I was not going to get accepted,” Drnda said. Luckily, he’s already been accepted to at least one European college.
Senior Sean Thompson isn’t going to college at all - at least not yet. Instead, he’s joining the Peace Corps. Why?
“College is helping me,” Thompson said. “The Peace Corps is helping others.”
Although his parents would prefer for him to go to college, Thompson says they’re supportive.
“Other people think I should go to college,” he said, “but you gotta do what you gotta do.”
He doesn’t know if he’ll be admitted yet, but if he isn’t, he plans to find some other way to help people.
However, Thompson warns students to be cautious when exploring opportunities other than college.
“If it’s positive to the world
or other people, then yes, you should do it,” he said. “If it’s just something you think you’d enjoy, I’d say go to college.”
Grayson Gist chose to apply to the Air Force Academy, although he won’t know until March if he’s accepted.
“I want to fly,” he said, giving his reason.
When it came to choosing a college, students seemed to hold certain factors as most important.
Finding a school that was strong in the chosen major was a definite deciding factor, but the size, reputation, financial aid opportunities, and location (whether close enough to visit family or far away to broaden horizons) all played a role.
Those students attending college have advice for juniors beginning their own search.
“Start now,” McQuerry advised, “and take the ACT.”
Lopez added, “Be open to everything. Some colleges you’ve never heard of will be a really good fit for you. Don’t only look at the names you know.”
“Start early on the process before school gets too stressful,” Gist said. “Also, apply to many places to have better options. You can never have too many.”
Although most applications have been sent in, seniors can enjoy a period of relaxation before their biggest choice - which college to attend - arrives.
May 1, commonly known as Decision Day, is still several months away, allowing students time to deliberate before making their final decision.
Seniors have mixed emotions as their four years of high school draw to a close.
“I’m excited,” Drnda admitted.Lopez was torn, saying “I’m
really excited, but I think it’ll be hard to leave everyone I know.”
Gist agreed, saying, “I’m extremely nervous, but excited for a new experience.”
However, McQuerry said, “I’ll always be here in my heart.”
Erin Niederbergercopy editor
Send it in Senior Micah McQuerry takes advantage of a free block in band class to work on his college and scholarship applications. Many schools’ priority scholarship deadlines arrived on Dec. 1 or soon afterward, so students were encouraged to send in applications before that date.
PHOTO COURTESY OF COURTNEY KUBAYKO
Top College Choices of Northtown Students
2012
Where are your classmates planning to attend next year? Currently, the class of 2012 has sent the most applications to the following colleges.
1. University of Missouri - Columbia
2. University of Missouri - Kansas City
3. Northwest Missouri State University
4. Missouri State University
5. University of Central Missouri
6. University of Kansas
7. William Jewell College
8. Truman State University
9. Maple Woods Community College
10. University of Arkansas
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“I’m going Christmas shopping in Ohio!”-Freshman Caressa Kuy
“I’m doing nothing.” -Senior Bennett Lowery
“I’m finding the dinosaur!”-Junior Shannan Henderson
“I’m fighting a dinosaur!” -Junior Greg Kitchens
Dec. 14, 2011 features|7
Three ways to look cute, yet stay warmAs the colder weather rolls
in, a great challenge arises: how to be look cute without freezing to death. Luckily, this can be accomplished without having to buy a whole new set of winter clothes.
1. LAYERINGThe most obvious way to keep
in the warmth is layering. Layers trap the heat and keep the cold from getting too close. Layering tops can add color and texture to any outfit. However, you can also sneak in a layer or two under a long sleeved shirt or jacket to stay warm and since it’s underneath it doesn’t always have to match.
2. TIGHTSThis one is mostly for girls.
Tights are wonderful when it comes to being cute and warm.
Not the thin hose or leggings, but actual thick tights that can keep your legs warm. They’re a great alternative to wearing jeans everyday. Thick tights allow you to wear skirts, dresses, or even over-sized hoodies and still be warm.
3. HATS AND SOCKSA large percentage of your
body heat is lost from your head and your feet. In cold weather, hats and socks are absolutely essential, even if they don’t always fit the outfit you want to wear. The trick is finding something that looks good on you, that you would want to wear. Taking the extra time to find a hat that suits you is worth it. Finding the socks that are comfortable but also keep you warm is worth it too. Instead of thinking of hats and socks as just necessities, think of them as accessories.
Emily Anthonystaff writer
Lovely layers Layers are an essential part of staying warm in winter. However, the layers don’t always have to match. An extra long sleeved thermal or pair of shorts under your outfit can make all the difference.
ZOE LEWIS
Winter holiday traditions at Northtown This year, Winter Break is from
Dec. 22 - Jan. 4. During those two and a half
weeks, there are several major holidays: Hanukkah, Winter Solstice, Christmas, Kwanzaa, and New Year’s Eve.
Northtown students all spend the break differently. Some go on trips, while others spend the break at home.
Here’s a look at some Winter Break traditions.
Some families that celebrate Christmas remember the holiday with family dinners and gifts.
“Before Christmas my parents hide a pickle ornament on the tree and whoever finds the pickle first gets to open the first present.” - Maddy Mars, 11
“On Christmas Eve we have a winter feast with family and neighbors, then everyone will open up presents. The next morning everyone comes over again and we have breakfast together.” - Angela Gutierrez, 10
“My family all gets together to eat a lot of food and play football.” - Patrick Howard, 11
“Everyone meets at my Grandma’s house for Christmas and she makes home made egg nog” - Thomas Swope, 12
“Over winter break my family all gets together for Christmas dinner and everyone has to bring a different food.” - Fabio Sonda, 10
“Every year my family makes tamales for dinner.” - David Caseo, 11
“We always open our gifts together on Christmas Eve instead of Christmas morning.” - Haley Daniels, 11
“My grandma makes peanut butter cookies with Hershey kisses in the middle just for Christmas, they’re my favorite.” - Hannah Leach, 10
“My family goes to church, then we open one present on Christmas Eve. In the morning we open the rest. My grandma also makes Mexican Mole for Christmas dinner.” - Ceres Campos, 12
“My grandma makes hashbrown casserole just for me because it’s my favorite.” - Dominic Lopez, 9
Some families use the two and a half weeks to travel, either just
to their grandparent’s house or around the world.
“Sometimes my family will visit India over Winter break.” - Kayla Chinnaswamy, 11
“Every two years my family will go to Nigeria over Winter Break.” - Chinelo Ezeuka, 10
“We spend a lot of time with family that we don’t see a lot.” - Heather Johnson, 10
“We go to my aunt’s house to visit family.” - Jessica Kennedy, 12
“Sometimes we visit my great grandparents in Iowa.” - Lauren Mullins, 12
However, some Hornets just stay at home to relax and hang out with their family.
“My family watches ‘Elf’ and we play intense sessions of Rock Band.” - Cheyanne Neilson, 11
“My family gets into Nerf Wars and goes to church together.” -Jonathan Becker, 11
“Before and during winter break, I play a lot of dreidel and win lots of chocolate coins.” - Selena Montes, 11
Whatever holiday you’re celebrating this Winter Break, just remember to stay safe, stay warm, and stay classy, Northtown.
Elizabeth Craigdesign editor
STOCK IMAGES
8|features The Hornet’s Buzz
Ever wonder who that man or woman is that you see roaming the halls, wearing a STAFF shirt and khaki pants?
These people are your Hornet security team and they are here to keep both students and staff safe.
Meet your Northtown security team
A self-described competitive person, Hall is always up for a challenge. Once having seen a segment on television of an actor that had created a woodcraft worthy to be marveled at, he thought it to be ridiculous, yet wanted to give it a go.
In the past 20 years or so, he has already managed many accomplishments.
With the knack of self-taught techniques, he has constructed many tables, chairs, desks, dressers, quilt racks, coffee and sofa tables.
Alongside his loving hobby, Hall revealed a heartwarming story.
As it is his first year of teaching high school, Mr. Hall isn’t but a freshman himself.
Hall moved up to the high school level from Eastgate Middle School, where he taught for 15 years.
Those who know him probably know him as a Social Studies teacher who claims he is “just trying to make less hate in my corner of the world,” or as Northtown’s varsity baseball coach.
What most people don’t know is that Hall is also a woodcraftsman.
Alex Grantstaff writer
Rylie Lyonscontributing writer
New to Northtown Hall is one of many new teachers that joined the Northtown family this year. Hall not only teaches Social Studies, but he also coaches baseball and is a skilled woodcraftsman. He has made all kinds of chairs and furniture for his family.
RYLIE LYONS
“I have been making chairs, one for each of my kids,” he said.
He plans for his children to have their own chairs, made by him.
For his eldest son, age 10, he made an oak rocking chair.
His second child, 9, has a mahogany morris chair.
The third child, age 6, doesn’t yet have a chair, but the magic is in the process. His youngest will have to wait in line, but he’ll get there.
Woodworking takes much time, skill, patience, and creativity.
Outside the classroom and off the field, he’s a master of the craft.
New face at Northtown: Mr. Hall
Marca Robinson is the only woman on the Northtown security team and she loves her job.
“I’ve been working here since last January. I really like getting to know all of the students.”
Even though Robinson enjoys what she does, there are some downsides.
“I don’t like reminding kids to do the right thing more than once. When I ask you to take your hat off, take it off,” said Robinson.
Phil Hudson AKA “Big Phil” has been with the security team for two years.
“My favorite spot is the rover because you get to see all the action while roaming the halls,” said Hudson.
“I love interacting with the kids, but my least favorite part of working is the East doors. You can’t leave it because so many kids come through.”
Phil Zaragosa AKA “Little Phil” is going on his second year as part of the security team.
“My favorite part is working with the team as one unit and being back in high school,” said Zaragosa.
“I don’t really have a least favorite part because I was a cop for 17 years so this is a piece of cake.”
Jason Starnes has been working with the security team since last February.
“My favorite part about my job is that it’s different every day,” said Starnes. “My favorite spot is the Fieldhouse because I like to talk to the coaches, but my least favorite parts are the Advisory days or being the crossing guard because it’s cold.”
LaMont White has only been with the security team for five months, but he loves his job none the less.
“I don’t like walking in the cold, but I love interacting with the kids,” said White.
“My favorite job is the rover because I don’t have to stay in one spot.”
No matter what job they’re doing, the security team is here to help. Make sure you say hi next time you pass by!
ALL PHOTOS BY ALEX GRANT
Dec. 14, 2011 features|9
Lauren Williamseditor-in-chief
Imagine have someone who knows everything about you-your likes, dislikes, your goals, and your fears.
This person is a permanent part of your life, regardless of the struggles and hardships life throws at you.
That person? Your brother or sister.
Having a sibling changes your life experiences, including high school, and makes them unique.
Each sibling has certain qualities and personality quirks that makes them special to their other sibling.
“The best part for me is that I always have someone I can relate to,” said senior Eli Warren.
“The best part about having an older brother is being able to talk to them and knowing he understands where I’m coming from,” said junior Callie Warren.
With a sibling, memories are created, whether good or bad.
“The best memory of hanging out with Abby would have to be whenever we go to the lake together. We always have a great time,” sophomore Emily Reyes said.
When your sibling is so close to you in age, sometimes fights and disagreements arise.
“I’m always looking out for him, because he usually looks kind of lost. We do fight but it’s usually not about anything important and we get over it pretty quick,” said
Family ties: Dealing with siblings at school
A day of fun Sophomore Emily Reyes hangs out with her sister, senior Abby Reyes, after her treble choir concert at Crown Center. The sisters spend time with one another every chance they get-cooking, driving to school together, and doing homework together. “It’s nice knowing I have someone to blame things on,” said Abby Reyes.
LAUREN WILLIAMS
I’ve got you Freshman Jacob Riley holds his brother, senior Sam Riley, in his arms. Both brothers are in Jazz band together, and relate to one another over common interests in sports. “The best thing for me is sometimes we mix stuff up with our backpacks on accident,” said Sam Riley.
Lean on me Supporting her younger sister sophomore Zoe Smith, is senior Devon Smith. Both sisters are in I.B. and are able to relate to one another about I.B. events. “I know that I’m never alone. I will always have someone to watch tv, eat and play games with,” said Zoe Smith.
LAUREN WILLIAMS LAUREN WILLIAMS
senior Sam Riley. “We’ve become close friends
because we don’t fight as much anymore,” said freshman Jacob Riley.
However, some siblings are hoping to establish their own identities in having a sibling in the
same high school as one another. “Because of our age closeness, I
know he doesn’t want to associate with me at times because he doesn’t want to be known as ‘Sarrah’s little brother,’” said senior Sarrah Hunt.
“I don’t feel like anything is changed with having a sibling close in age to me. There are things that makes having a sibling hard at times,” said freshman Logan Hunt.
Sometimes, siblings can be close despite their differing interests.
“Scott and I get along pretty well. It’s really rewarding to be able to show him the ropes of high school,” said senior Andrea Johnson.
It’s a whole different experience having a twin in high school with you.
“Even though we’re a little more introverted, I am glad I have her with me. I know she’s always going to be there to back me up. We are identical, but we’re individuals and we get along fairly well,” said junior Jessica Rambo.
“She’s a fireball, but I know she’d be willing to go to war for me. She’s always willing to defend me,”said junior Erika Rambo.
Throughout the years, siblings have the good, bad, and sad memories with them as they continue their lives-whether they live near one another or not.
“I will always remember when we made hand turkeys in psychology as a happy memory, and I will always remember the day Erika was diagnosed with PTSD-which is post traumatic stress disorder,” said Jessica Rambo.
Siblings are there for one another no matter what happens in their life, the miles between the two, and regardless of past fights or disagreements.
“Everything we do together is unique to me. It could be all the small things like
hanging out together or having common friends. Having Zoe as my sister makes my high school experience that much more memorable,” senior Devon Smith said.
“Having Zoe as my sister makes my
high school experience that much
more memorable.” - Devon Smith,
senior
10|features The Hornet’s Buzz
“Aspirin - for the headaches.”
“Don’t Do group stuDy sessions because you’ll just enD up talking the whole time.”
“Reread questions.”
“Study a lot, ahead of time. Don’t wait until the last minute.”
“Ask teachers questions.”
“Eat breakfast.”
“Stay on top of things.”
“Eat fruit; it makes you ‘smartical.”’
“Relax, and don’t rush.”
“Despite popular belief, lay off the caffeine - it just makes you jittery.”
“Get lots of sleep.”
“Don’t eat junk food; it makes you stupid.”“Study.”
Stressing about finals? Are you spending countless, sleepless nights cramming? Here are some tips to help you survive end-of-semester finals...
Your tips: How to survive final examsStormy Allenstaff writer
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Dec. 14, 2011 sports|11
Endia Moorestaff writer
Lauren Williamseditor-in-chief
Preparing for battle Sophomore Milton Hall prepares to take on his opponent from William Chrisman. This is Hall’s first year on the wrestling team for Northtown. The Hornets’ next wrestling match will take place here at home in the fieldhouse against Park Hill and Truman.
DANIELL HERNANDEZ
He shoots, he scores! The Northtown players cheer a boy on as he tries his hand at the sport. The Northtown basketball team held this event with Northstar to work on passing, shooting, and dribbling.
PHOTO COURTESY OF COREY MCCUNE
Winter sports teams start new seasons
Northtown creates bond with Northstar
As the weather changes, so do the sports here at Northtown.
The girls’ and boys’ basketball team, girls’ swim and dive team, and the wrestling team have begun their seasons with high hopes.
Team captain Taylor Thompson has set her goals for the varsity girls’ basketball team on making it to State.
“When we communicate, it can be a strength but when we don’t, it can be a weakness,” she said.
Thompson stated that she felt as if Staley would be the team’s biggest competition.
Similar to the girls, the boys varsity basketball team has their goal set on winning.
“Our goal is to win as many games as possible. Win, win, win!” junior Roy Clater said.
Like many other teams,
the boys shared that a lack of communication can be a problem but when they do it is also a strength.
When asked, senior Enoch Berhanu said that he is most looking forward to winning games and bonding with his teammates.
“I love it and I think I have improved drastically,” said Berhanu.
“I’m really looking forward to having a lot of wins and being surrounded by a good team this year,” said senior Kole Hannah.
The wrestling team admits that discipline is one
of their biggest strengths, which is a big part of wrestling.
“Goals for the team are to work hard and show respect,” junior Jason Mulvaney said.
Overall, the wrestlers have their eyes set on Districts and State.
The basketball boys go for a shot, and straight into the community’s hearts.
On Nov. 19, the boys’ basketball team held an event with special education students.
These students formed a Special Olympics team called Northstar, comprised of students from all four high school within the district.
This event was held in order to help the Special Olympics team kick off their season and work on their skills at playing basketball.
Basketball coach Theo Fundermann hosted the event.
Players worked on offensive skills like dribbling, passing and shooting. Each skill was turned into a mini competition.
Dribbling, for example, would
be done around cones in groups and the first group to finish was the winner.
The activities were then finished off with a popular spot shot competition.
Players would get one minute on the clock to shoot
from wherever they were most comfortable.
The time and number of baskets made were kept up on the scoreboard and added a sense of excitement.
“The best part of this event was the family a t m o s p h e r e
created by the bond between the Hornets and Northstar teams,” said Fundermann.
The Northstar team competes in tournaments throughout the Kansas City metro.
Meanwhile, the Hornets are playing their way through their own season.
“The best part of this event was the family atmosphere created by the bond between the Hornets and
Northstar teams.” - Coach Fundermann
“I’m really looking forward to having a lot of wins and being surrounded by
a good team this year.” - Kole
Hanna
12|sports The Hornet’s Buzz
Fans cheer: that means sports are here. Every competitive event is some sort of sport, and where there are sports there are people rooting for one team and or a certain person.
Let’s narrow the sports to just football and basketball.
Northtown has many students that have their own opinion about sports teams.
In dealing with college teams, most of the time in this area one
would say either Mizzou or Kansas, but with Mizzou leaving to a different conference, that rivalry might become extinct.
“I like MU because KU sucks,” junior Taylor Thompson said.
She is not the only person that thinks that way.
“I like MU because I hate KU,”junior Jzsa Berymon said.
KU has some love at Northtown too.
“My favorite college team is KU because I grew up in Kansas,”
junior Greg Kitchens said.“I like KU because I grew up in
Kansas, and my parents work for their athletic department,” math teacher Ms. Fitch said.
Even though geographically Kansas City is in the middle of these two universities, not everyone likes one of them.
“My favorite college team is Texas because they are the best,” senior Jeremy Bain said. “Hook them horns.”
“My favorite college team is
Baylor, because they play good basketball,” junior Lauren Austin said.
What do students have to say about the big leagues, the NFL and the NBA?
“I like the San Diego Chargers and the Boston Celtics because they are both awesome,”sophomore Damion Mullikin said.
“I like the Chargers because they are in my hometown, and my favorite NBA team is the Orlando
Magic because they have Dwight Howard,” Thompson said.
“I like the Carolina Panthers without Cam Newton, and the Chicago Bulls because of Derick Rose,” sophomore Yel Yel said.
“I like the Kansas City Chiefs because they are the hometown team, and the Celtics because of Ray Allen,” Austin said.
Regardless of who you cheer for, or if you don’t like sports at all, just be happy with who or what you stick with.
What’s your favorite sports team? Ryan Welliverstaff writer
JANUARY SPORTS CALENDARVarsity Girls’ Basketball
Jan 02 7:00 PM at Winnetonkavs. WinnetonkaJan 03 7:00 PM at Ruskinvs. RuskinJan 05 7:00 PM at NKCHSvs. St. Joe CentralJan 20 7:00 PM at Blue Springs Svs. Blue Springs SouthJan 23 7:00 PM at Lee’s Summit Wvs. Lee’s Summit WestJan 26 7:00 PM at Park Hillvs. Park HillJan 30 TBA at NKCHSNorthtown ClassicJan 31 TBA at NKCHSNorthtown Classic
Varsity Boys’ Basketball
Jan 03 7:00 PM at NKCHSvs. Park HillJan 06 7:00 PM at Ruskinvs. RuskinJan 09-14 TBA at KearneyTourJan 17-20 TBA at NKCHSTourJan 24 7:00 PM at St. Joe CentralJan 27 7:00 PM at Lee Summit WJan 31 7:00 PM at Trumanvs. Truman
JV Girls’ Basketball
Jan 02 5:30 PM at Winnetonkavs. WinnetonkaJan 03 5:30 PM at Ruskinvs. RuskinJan 05 5:30 PM at NKCHSvs. St. Joe CentralJan 20 5:30 PM at Blue Springs Svs. Blue Springs SouthJan 23 5:30 PM at Lee’s Summit WJan 26 5:30 PM at Park Hillvs. Park Hill
JV Varsity Boys’ Basketball
Jan 03 5:30 PM at NKCHSvs. Park HillJan 06 5:30 PM at Ruskinvs. Ruskin MillsJan 24 5:30 PM at St. Joe Centralvs. St. Joe CentralJan 31 5:30 PM at Trumanvs. Truman
Wrestling
Jan 04 6:00 PM at Raytown Svs. Raytown SJan 13 6:00 PM at NKCHSvs. Winnetonka/GrandviewJan 17 at 6:00 PM at NKCHS Norclayvs. Liberty NorthJan 24 6:00 PM at NKCHSvs. St. Joe CentralJan 27 TBA at LibertyLiberty TourJan 28 TBA at LibertyLiberty TourJan 31 6:00 PM at Fort Osagevs. Fort Osage/ Raytown
Girls’ Swim and Dive
Jan 06 TBA at the Gladstone Community Center (GGC).Park Hill Invite.Jan 07 TBA at the GGCPark Hill InviteJan 12-14 4:00 PM at Henley AquaticKC Metro InviteJan 17 4:00 PM at GCCvs. St. Pius/ KearneyJan 24 4:00 PM at Henly Aquaticvs. Liberty/ TrumanJan 28 TBA at Lee’s SummitJV ConferenceJan 31 4:00 PM at the GCCvs. Lee’s Summit West
Dec. 14, 2011 opinions|13
For the last four decades, student scores on standardized testing have dominated whether students make it into college.
Most American colleges believe that tests such as the ACT and SAT can indeed determine the path you will take after high school.
I believe these test are given too much glory.
These tests are like bricks on average high school students’ shoulders.
SAT, ACT: Do standardized tests really predict your future successes?Tierra Samuelstaff writer
With the wrong score, you won’t be able to get into the Ivy League schools, or maybe not be accepted into any college.
Standardized tests are a fact of life in our school careers, but one of the most important of them all is the Scholastic Aptitude Test.
The SAT is a three-hour exam that is supposed to measure a high school student’s chance of academic success in the first year of college.
This is a major test depending on where you want to attend college or if you want to attend at all.
The ACT or American College Test is just as important as the SAT.
All colleges accept the ACT scores. Some states even require students to take this test.
The ACT is a test of knowledge and reasoning skills, rather than a test of test-taking skills.
Test taking is a skill that some master and some completely fail. Students that have test anxieties have more pressures when taking this test.
These tests influence our future successes or failures, whether we like it or not.
Study Up Senior Katesha Long begins a practice test for the English section of the ACT practice test. Long and other students had the opportunity to stay after school to practice with Ms. Scroggs for a chance to raise their ACT scores. “Going to the after-school sessions with Ms. Scroggs really made me feel better about going into the test,” said Long.
ELIZABETH CRAIG
Making the GradeEndia Moorestaff writer
A Everyone loves free hot dogs, chips, and soda, but let’s show our appreciation by throwing away trash instead of leaving it on the ground.
It definitely has not been the most steady weather, but it is slightly better than last year’s.
Hot Dog Church
CThe Weather
These are by far the most winter efficient shoes but if it’s cold enough to wear boots than it’s cold enough to wear pants with them, not shorts
BUggs
Sometimes it’s nice to get dressed when you’re going out, but wearing high heels on an open campus school is not necessary. If you are unable to walk in them, there is no reason to wear them.
DHigh Heels
AThe Buzz Cart
It’s convenient, cheap, and has the snacks that everyone likes.
Eddie’s Edibles
A Eddie’s Edibles cupcakes taste great and there is a variety of different flavors, almost one for every day of the week!
• If written, staff editorials will not be signed and will reflect the opinion of the majority of the staff members. Commentaries and columns, on the other hand, will be signed and reflect the individual writer’s views.
• The Buzz is a member of the NationalScholastic Press Association, Missouri Interscholastic Press Association, Journalism Educators of Metropolitan Kansas City, and Journalism Education Association. Some material is courtesy of MCT Campus HS Newspaper Service.
• If you are interested in advertising with The Buzz, please contact us at (816) 413-5970 or email [email protected].
• The Buzz is printed by The Sedalia Democrat of Sedalia, Mo.
Editor-in-ChiefLauren Williams
Copy EditorErin Niederberger
Design EditorElizabeth Craig
Staff WritersStormy AllenEmily AnthonyAlexandra GrantMatthew HowertonAndrea JohnsonZoe LewisEndia MooreCierra MurphyTierra SamuelRyan Welliver
Adviser Mrs. Mary Prichard
The Buzz
Staff
which is inconsistent with the district’s legitimate educational concerns. All student media shall comply with the ethics and rules of responsible journalism.
• Any person with an interest in the NKCHS community is encouraged to submit letters to the editor. All letters must be signed. All signatures will be verified through a phone call or personal interview. Letters should be fewer than 400 words in length. The Buzz reserves the right to edit any letter for grammatical errors, libelous content, or space limitations. Letters to the Editor may be emailed to [email protected], or mailed to North Kansas City High School, 620 East 23rd Avenue, North Kansas City, Missouri, 64116.
• The North Kansas City High School newspaper, The Hornet’s Buzz, is part of the educational curriculum of North Kansas City School District. Although the paper is a class activity, NKCHS students may submit materials, such as stories, photography, or art, for publication consideration. Students should bring any submissions to Room MN-219. Submissions may be edited for content, length and grammar.
• The Buzz is a student publication that is published in accordance with Board of Education Policy IGBD- Student Publications. School-sponsored publications and productions are part of the curriculum and are not a public forum for general student use. School authorities may edit or delete material
Policies of the Buzz
BUZZ CORRECTIONLast issue, The Buzz incorrectly identified the following in a list of football seniors: Cameron Madison (#3) Jeremy Bain (#34), and Geoffrey Borque (#68) should have been included. Also, Alija Omerovic’s number should have been 14. The Buzz staff regrets the error.
14|arts&entertainment The Hornet’s Buzz
Breaking free from the binds of J.K. Rowling’s infamous series, Harry Potter, Quidditch has made its way to colleges and might be even closer to you than you think.
In Harry Potter, Quidditch is a sport played among all the wizards on broomsticks.
The gameplay includes three goal posts on each side, and two different teams.
Each team is comprised of three chasers, two beaters, one keeper, and one seeker.
Additionally, the game involves four balls: the quaffle, two bludgers, and the Golden Snitch.
The goal of Quidditch is like any other sport: score more goals than the opposing team. According to the IQA ( International Quidditch Association), they have three goals: to foster a culture of creativity, to create, connect and enhance their communities; and to facilitate competition.
In order to make the game of Quidditch as much their own as possible, the IQA made some changes to the rules: each team would have seven athletes, playing four different positions, and using the three different balls.
Currently, the rules are as follows:
Each player must have a broomstick in between their legs at all times. Each team must have three chasers, two beaters, one keeper, and a seeker.
The quaffle is a volleyball and is used to score goals, which are worth ten points a piece.
The keeper defends the goals, and the beaters uses balls called bludgers to ‘knock out’ other players to prevent them from scoring.
Each team has a seeker whose sole purpose is to go after the Snitch. The Snitch is a tennis ball within a tube sock which is tucked into the waistband of the Snitch runner.
The Snitch runner is not a part of either team and is not required to have a broomstick.
He or she can use any means necessary to get away from whoever is trying to capture the Snitch. The game does not end until the Snitch is successfully captured; allowing the team who captured it to gain thirty points.
If the two teams are even, they go into overtime like any other sport.
In 2005, Middlebury College held the very first Quidditch game, which has spawned a chain reaction resulting in 100 teams
Lauren Williamseditor-in-chief
Feelin’ fly like it’s Quidditch
Three rings, one goal On Mar. 27, 2010 in Grapevine, Texas, a game of Quidditch is being played with a college team. Quidditch is slowly becoming more recognized throughout the nation. J.K. Rowling’s fictional sport is slowly being brought to life around college campuses.
PHOTO COURTESY OF BOB BOOTH/FORT WORTH STAR-TELEGRAM/MCT
and 2,000 athletes joining in for the chance to win the World Cup.
“I love it. Although, with the books at an end, it brings me a sense of nostalgia,” said social studies teacher Laurel Maslowski.
Looking to attend a college and potentially participate in Quidditch?
The top five schools are: Middlebury College, University of Kansas, Louisiana State University, Texas A & M, and Emerson College.
Not only does Quidditch offer students an alternative sport, it also does not gender discriminate.
“It’s cool, I’ve read the books and seen the movies,” said senior Christian Folsom.
Additionally, junior students Max Irby, Al Canole, and Craig Fanniel have been working hard to establish a Quidditch Club at Northtown.
“Right now, us captains meet every Tuesdays and Thursdays to practice. When it comes to the expenses of the club, we plan on fundraising to afford the costs of equipment, uniforms, and anything else that has funds,” said Fanniel.
Sponsoring the soon-to-be Quidditch Club is Spanish teacher Joaquin Cuni.
“This club is an opportunity to know other students,exercise, and share your passion for the world of Harry Potter,” said Cuni.
If you’re interested in joining, see captains Craig Fanniel, Al Canole, or Max Irby. Tryouts are being held this week.
If you want to try out, meet in front of the foyer in front of Gym 3. The tryouts will be outside, so dress warmly.
“People trying out should be aware that this is a sport and all three of us are all very serious about it,” said Irby.
Quidditch is spreading quickly throughout the nation, and even though players aren’t flying on their broomsticks, they’re soaring towards making this new sport popular and unique.
To learn more: visit www.internationalquidditch.org
Bring your Nimbus 2000 On Oct. 9, 2010, University of Miami college
students participate in the newly founded game of Quidditch. Quidditch
uses brooms-just like out of Harry Potter, except now, they can’t fly.
Representing KU Quidditch History teachers Laurel Maslowski and Annie Miller show their support for Quidditch with K.U. shirts. Miller has a brother who plays on his college Quidditch team.
PHOTO COURTESY OF CHARLES MOSTOLLER/MIAMI HERALD/MCT
LAUREN WILLIAMS
Dec. 14, 2011 arts&entertainment|15
“How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying” is a story about a window washer, J. Pierrepont “Ponty” Finch, using a book to climb up the corporate ladder. In the midst of his success, he falls in love with Rosemary Pilkington. Ponty’s biggest competition was company head Mr. Biggley’s nephew Bud Frump.
P o n t y ’ s plan to climb the corporate ladder comes to a halt when an advertising plan fails because of Mr. Biggley. Mr. Biggley had leaked very c o n f i d e n t i a l information to his lover Hedy during one of their late night r e n d e z v o u s . Despite all this, J. Pierrepont still rises to the top at the end of play and marries Rosemary.
The actors and actresses worked very hard rehearsing and performing this play. Ponty was the male lead, played by senior Jacob Gutierrez.
“The musical was really fun and a great experience,” said Gutierrrez.
Rosemary, the female lead, was played by senior Alex Grant.
“I really liked it because it was my first time in a musical and I thought it was fun. I got to meet a lot of great people. Also, I earned ten bucks for making out with Jacob,” Grant said.
The story line was really good. The play as a whole was well choreographed and put together. The hard work put into the play
was illuminated through each scene and song.
Tierra Samuelstaff writer
Zoe Lewisstaff writer
Musical review Book Review:Orange is the New Black
Students perform ‘outside the box’
Spitting a sick rhyme Senior Darius Glasgow raps during the talent show. The show was organized by teacher Monika Rojas Beck and her advisory class.
Bow Down Sophomore Morgan Thompson performs in the talent show with a one of a kind dance. His dance earned him the first-place award. The “Think Outside the Box” talent show took place on Nov. 17 and raised money in conjunction with the “One Homeless Night” event.
ENDIA MOORE
Smiles and microphones Sophomore Adriana Averette walks off the stage with her boyfriend, junior Dionte Tatum. The couple sang a duet for the talent show.
ENDIA MOORE
Talent Show Results:
• 1st- Sophomore Morgan Thompson, with his dancing routine
• 2nd- Senior Destiny Jones, who recited a poem
• 3rd- Sophomore Trevor Tournear, with his drum routine
Judges looked at:• Creativity of the act, • Stage performance, • Overall performance
of their act
ENDIA MOORE
Today you wake up 20 minutes before school starts, put on your new kicks, and fly down the road to school.
Grab a chocolate milk from the cafeteria, slide a ten sack to your friend, and finally reach the class room a minute before the bell rings. Time to fall asleep while your physics teacher gives a lecture on that one thing that has to do with gravity.
Ten years later, you wake up in a jail cell.
Piper Kerman paints a portrait in her memoir, “Orange Is the New Black,” of spending a year in federal prison.
Wake up - this is one picture you don’t want to smoke away.
She smears the darkest hues of prison all over the pages in hopes to pencil in bright shades of smart choices in your mind.
Kerman’s story twists the contour lines with the ladies she formed a bond with in prison and the empty space left in her illustration: her family.
Orange Is the New Black shows us the ripple effect of the choices we make today.
Whether small or big, our choices like each drip of water can land you in several directions.
Take this book as a picture of where one drip can lead you later in life.
Kerman’s memoir is a beautifully illustrated portrait that shines light on the darkness we often mistake to be a bit lighter.
A duet Alex Grant and Jacob Gutierrez as Rosemary and Finch, respectively, in the production of “How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying.”
PHOTO: BOOK COVER
“I just, I felt like a freak. I guess what I’m trying to say is I want to liberate them, I want to free
them of their fears and make them feel that they can create their own space in the world.”
- Lady Gaga
LADYGA
GA
16|arts&entertainment The Hornet’s Buzz
Stefani Joanne Angelina Germanotta, better known as Lady Gaga, is a singer and song-writer who has revolutionized music and style.
She began her career playing shows in Manhattan’s Lower East Side and was signed with her first label by the end of 2007. Employed there as a songwriter, she captured the attention of many with her vocal capabilities.
Lady Gaga began her official ascension to fame with the release of her first album “The Fame” in 2008. The album was a critical and commercial success that included international number-one singles “Just Dance” and “Poker Face.”
After embarking on the Fame Ball Tour, she followed with the album “The Fame Monster” which spawned the worldwide hit singles “Bad Romance,” “Telephone,” and “Alejandro.” They allowed her to embark on the 18-month Monster Ball tour which became one of the highest grossing concerts of all time.
Her most recent album “Born this Way,” which dropped in early 2011, topped the charts of most major markets and generated even more international hits. Lady Gaga’s autobiographical video for her song “Marry the
Night” released on Dec. 2 and racked up over 13 million views in under a week. In addition to her musical career, she involves herself with humanitarianism and LGBT activism.
Lady Gaga is well recognized for her flamboyant and diverse contributions to the music industry through fashion, performance and music videos.
She has sold an estimated 23 million albums and 64 million singles worldwide, making her one of the best selling music artist of all time.
Her achievements include five Grammys, four Guinness
World Records, and 13 MTV Music Awards.
Lady Gaga has consecutively appeared on Billboard's “Artists of the Year” list and scored the definitive title in 2010.
She came in at number eleven on Forbes’ list of “Most Influential Women,” beating out Oprah. She was also named one of the most influential people in the world by Time magazine.
Love her or hate her, Lady Gaga is an undeniable force in the art and entertainment industry. With her music, she sends a message of being yourself and loving who you are. She may easily be the pop music icon of our time.
Mais je suis un artiste
2008 2009 2011
Emily Anthonystaff writer
But I am an Artist
PHOTO CREDITS: ALBUM COVERS, EDITED BY EMILY ANTHONY