TROJAN TORCHDecember2011

The

Volume92//Issue5JenksHighSchoolNewspaper

Winterfest ignites the winter season in Tulsaread more on page 4

Greenhouse takes its roots on campus “The school actually used to have a greenhouse for the horticultural science classes. It was torn down in order to make room for the aquatic center. The new greenhouse is being built to bring back those horticulture classes,” junior Athena Chatzigiannidis said. Jenks has become a “boom school” in the last two years. There has been constant construction somewhere on campus for students to take sight of. The new greenhouse is being built where the old Betsy Mayo building was located. The greenhouse was originally supposed to be done on Oct. 15 but due to complications it was delayed until further notice. Chatzigiannidis was told that the greenhouse summed up for a total near to $180,000. The greenhouse will be complimented by the large retention pond being build right behind it because there will be so much water flowing through the greenhouse to water all of the plants. This school already has quite a bit to it, so how will this greenhouse help? “Students will have the opportunity to learn about a variety of plants. There are already two classes of students learning horticultural sciences that are eager to use the

Greenhouse being built in place of the old Mayo building for the Agriculture classes.

new facilities. We’ve been learning about how to properly plant and care for the plants we will be growing in the greenhouse. The classes also have big tilapia fish tanks, which will be put to us in the new building near the end of the year. A lot of the plants we will grow and have grown will be sold in our FFA chapters annual Plant Sale as a chapter fundraiser. Some students will have the opportunity to enter their plants in a contest at the fair,” Chatzigiannidis said.

Students take a stand

The clock is ticking louder and louder as the days fly by in wait of Nov. 6, 2012 (the day of the 2012 presidential election). Issues arise and debates intensify while many are trying to decide who they think is best fit for presidency. Although most students will not be eligible to vote in time, they still have strong opinions concerning the candidates. “I’m most supportive of Obama,” junior Samantha Rogers answered when asked who she is most in favor of for the 2012 elections. Obama is the front runner of the democratic nominations. Although some have disagreed with his actions during his term, according to New York Times he is likely to be re elected, “Americans are usually forgiving when they vote a man into the White

House and he wants a second term. Of the last eight elected presidents, all but two…got their four more years,” junior Samantha Rogers said. However, many others have stepped out as willing candidates opposing Obama for other parties such as Ricky Perry. Perry, chairman of the Republican Governors Association in Texas, is popular amongst the Tea Party and social conservatives. Aiming to equalize economic growth and preserving social values, Perry has attracted many supporters with his strong message and ambition. Obama and Perry, popular amongst many, still have tough competition against many other qualified runners such as Herman Cain and Newt Gingrich. But, no matter how many polls are taken, only time will reveal the winner.

Bailey Fischer-Columbo Reporter

HEALTH: Depression is a silent disease that is the most common mental health disorder in the U.S. According to www.teendepression.org, about 20 percent of teens struggle with depression. Depression is a serious disorder that has several causes. “There are several issues that can trigger depression in people. Issues like abuse, family conflict, a death or loss in the family or loss of a friend, and major life changes,” Allison Pickering, LCSW at Midtown Family Counciling said. Depression can also be heriditary. Depression also has several effects. Teendepression.org states that 30 percent of depressed teens develop issues with substance abuse, and depression contributes to unhealthy relationships, lower grade point adverages, and erratic behavior. It is also a contributer towards 90 percent of teen suicides. Symptoms of depression include, “difficulty concentrating and making decisions, decreased energy, feelings of worthlessness and hopelessness, insomn-ia, irritability, loss of interest in activities or hobbies once pleasurable, overeating or appetite loss, persistent physical aches or pains, persistent sad, anxious, or “empty” feeling, [and] thoughts of suicide,” Pickering continued. Though there is a major difference between depression and teen moodiness. “During the years of adolescence most teenagers will experience some symptoms of depression. Mood swings and diagnosable depression can be differentiated by duration and frequency of symptoms. If depressed symptoms persist... it may be time to get help,” Pickering said. Depression is a comlex disorder that should not be ignored. Pickering suggests that the best thing for depressed teens to do is talk. There are multiple options and treatments. "It’s important to know if you’re feeling that way there are answers and you can feel different... depression is best treated by seeing a counselor and deciding with the counselor and your doctor what steps are appropriate, like medication," Pickering said.

-Andrea Mayes

-by Emery Skelton

Depression

News Page 2

Coldplay creativity stays strong

Coldplay, the popular British alternative band, recently produced their fi fth (non-live) album and fans worldwide are in love. This band, now together since 1996 with their fi rst album production in 2000, has never re-ally hit a rough patch.

What makes Coldplay unique is their wide range of sound. No two albums sound the same, each focusing on different instruments, themes and any pleth-ora of things. One thing that Mylo Xyloto, their latest produc-tion, can acclaim to is the use of hypnosis when recording. “We’re not afraid to try different things. Brian Eno brought a friend in and the four of us were playing music under hypnosis. It didn’t really come to anything. You try 10 ideas and only one works. But nothing is too stupid for us.” bass player Guy Berryman said. The band members- Chris Martin, Jonny Buckland and Guy Berryman- have been together for over a decade, and their tunes continue to capture audiences worldwide. Coldplay’s lyrics as well as the perfect combination of fast and slow songs on every album is part of what has kept their fanbase strong for so long, as well as adding more and more every year. The new album itself, Mylo Xyloto, employs a stronger bass as well as more xylophone and techno based intros, a subtle touch to give the album a unique feel. The lyrics are, as in the past have been, amazing and easy for large audiences to connect with. But long time Coldplay fans need not despair-- there is still defi nitely a piano presence. With the release of this new album, fans worldwide are rocking to the amazing and melodious tones produced by the British stars. -Annie Roach

With this generation’s obsession with the supernatural, it is not surprising that so many successful shows have come out about vampires, witches, and werewolves. The Secret Circle is a fairly new show that is focused on a group of six teenagers that make up a circle of witches. The story line is centered on Cassie Blake, a girl whose life is turned upside down when her mom is mysteriously killed off in a fi re, and she is forced to move in with her grandmother.

While in her new town, the one that her mother grew up in, Cassie’s life turns into a series of one strange event after another. When fi ve strangers confront her, tell her she is a witch and that she is the last person to complete their circle, Cassie is left to face the dark truth that her mother left behind. After running away proves

impossible, Cassie is forced to realize that she will have to join her new friends, and use magic to unravel the mysterious pasts that their parents left for them to decipher.

“I like The Secret Circle because it is not predictable and it keeps me interested from episode to episode,” senior Charity Roark said.

This show provides an hour of thrill, anticipation, and excitement to viewers of all tastes and interests. It is packed with plenty of action and romance to satisfy every TV lover’s expectations. These teenagers capture the wanna-be superhero in all of us as they stick together and begin discovering all that their parents kept hidden throughout the years. The only question is, can they keep their secret identities undercover long enough to do so?

The Secret Circle engages viewersNatalie Miller

Reporter

Sherlock returns to theatersRachel Lampi

Reporter

This holiday season, eager eyes and ears will be tuned for news of Sherlock Holmes: Game of Shadows.

The fi lm is slated for release on Dec. 16, 2011 in the United States and the United Kingdom, and Dec. 25, 2011 in other coun-tries. It will be a sequel to the mov-ie released in December of 2009. It will also be a stand-alone fi lm, and knowledge of the events in the fi rst fi lm will not be necessary for those who are interested in the sec-ond. Speculation over this fi lm has been building since its predecessor was a box offi ce smash nearly two years previously. Speculation as to the nature of the sequel has been a hot topic among movie buffs in the two years since, although Warner Brothers had kept any rumors un-der close confi dentiality.

Robert Downey Jr. and Jude Law will be returning to play the roles of detective Sherlock Hol-mes and his assistant Dr. John Watson, respectively. In this fi lm, Jared Harris will be making his appearance as Professor Moriarty, Holmes’s arch-nemesis. Rachel McAdams will also be returning in her role as Irene Adler, although it will reputedly be a small part. Other actors who will make ap-pearances include Stephen Fry as

Mycroft Holmes, Sherlock’s older brother, and Noomi Rapace as a Romani woman named Sim.

The fi lm will be loosely based on the Sherlock Holmes short story “The Final Problem”, which author Arthur Conan Doyle later listed among his personal favorite Holmes stories he wrote. Doyle actually intended to kill Holmes off and have it be the last of the Holmes stories, although desperate entreaties from the detective’s fans encouraged him to continue with the character.

Whether a returning Sherlock Holmes fan, or someone venturing into the detective’s adventures for the fi rst time, this movie is sure to be an action-packed delight for fi lm lovers everywhere.

ReviewPage3

Entertainment Page 4

Winterfest rolls into townAmy PrittReporter

Winter is just around the corner! Who does not love the smell of the holidays? This is the time of year when people hang up mistletoes in their house and nonchalantly walk underneath it with that special someone. There is currently a festival to cele-brate the rave of winter even more. Win-terfest is a holiday-filled festival which is held downtown at the BOK Center. It is a month long festival that started Nov. 25 and lasts until Jan. 2. This festival is a winter wonderland dream that is filled with a lot fun. Winter can not be winter without the exceedingly cold temperatures of death. So at winterfest, they set up an ice skating rink for more exciting and chilly

entertainment. The ice skating rink holds skates which can be rented. For those professional ice skaters out there, the rink exceptionally allows them to bring their own skates. The spectators that watch the ice skaters can laugh at those freezing on the ice rink because they can stand in a climate-controlled warming tent that is set up across from the frozen rink. Just put on a hat a skate away! Winterfest also holds Oklahoma’s largest Christmas tree, a segway with Santa Claus, a magically festive horse and carriage ride, the Parade of Lights, a wiener dog race across the ice rink, live bands on the ONEOK stage, and a holi-day pet costume contest. Winterfest is an exciting event that can not be missed.

Winterfest celebrates every wonderful aspect of winter with ice skating and live bands.

Classic Christmas films to watch

Now that the holidays are fast approaching, tele-

vision stations are beginning to broadcast favorite Christ-mas movies to help with the attitude of festivity and good tidings. With all these films, it is sometimes hard to pick which one to watch. A Christmas Story is a classic holiday movie. The story is about a young boy, Ralphie, and all he wants for Christmas is a genuine Red Ryder BB gun. But every-one from his mother to his teacher, and even the Santa Claus at the mall, repeated tells him he will “shoot his eye out”. One of the funniest and perhaps most realistic holiday movies, it is a must-watch family film during this time of year. Christmas cartoons are in no short supply this month, either. One of the best-loved

children’s Christmas mov-ies is Dr. Seuss’s How The Grinch Stole Christmas. The Grinch, an odd-looking lime green creature, is angry with the Whos of Whoville for all their holiday cheer, and sets out to steal Christmas from them solely to ruin this hap-piness. Another very popular cartoon movie is A Charlie Brown Christmas, in which popular comic strip charac-ter Charlie Brown sets out to find the true meaning of Christmas, and encounters a very sorry-looking Christ-mas tree along the way. Both of these make fun films for adults and children alike. These are only some of the Christmas movies that have come to be considered staples of the season, and no matter which one you choose, it is sure to bring happiness to the holidays.

Rachel LampiReporter

TPAC has new

entertainmentCam Thomas

Copy Editor As the winter months ap-proach, the best way to find en-tertainment may be through the Tulsa Performing Arts Center. Whether it be pianists, plays, or even lecturers one is sure to find their fancy at the PAC.

Art Deco Xmas will be in the PAC gallery all of December. The collection arrives the 1st and will remain until the 31st. This collection features many modern pieces of art depicting Christmas scenes. The Eight: Reindeer Monologues is a play that features comedy and a great story. The story centers around one of Santa’s eight rein-deer, who accuses the deliverer of Christmas joy of sexual harassment. Before one can blink the media descends upon the North Pole and scandal ensues. Of course the classic Charles Dicken’s story, a Christmas Carol, will be at the PAC from Dec. 8-10, 14-17, 20-23 at 7:30 p.m. and Dec. 11 at 2:30 p.m. This adaptation portrays the world renowned tale of Ebeneezer Scrooge finding the spirit of Christmas after being haunted by the ghosts of Christmas’ past, present, and future. Finally, the Tulsa ballet will be performing The Nutcracker. This ballet is a favorite of many cultured Tulsans; and many find the per-formers to be spectacular. Whatever sort of entertainment you are looking for the Tulsa PAC will be sure to provide warmth in the winter months.

Malcolm McCormick, better known by his stage name as Mac Miller, is a nine-teen year old up and com-ing rapper from Pitsburgh, Pennsylvania. He recently re-leased his debut album called Blue Slide Park, on Nov 8, 2011. The album includes 16 new songs including “Smile Back”, “Up All Night”, and “Party on Fifth Ave.” just to name a few. All of the songs were written by Mac Miller himself and the majority of the tracks were produced by I.D. Labs.

Blue Slide Park de- buted at number one on the US Billboard 200 chart with 145,000 copies sold in its first week of release, making it the first independently dis-tributed debut album to top the chart since 1995. 170,000 copies have currently been sold as of Nov 20, 2011. Blue Slide Park is from the genre known as Pop Rap. It is not what you would ex-pect from a rap album. Miller has a mix of hard hitting party songs that make you want to dance like “Up All

Night” with softer and slower songs where he sings the lyr-ics instead of rapping them in songs like “Missed Calls” which also features a violin in the background. Mac Miller’s sound is authentic and origi-nal. He successfully pleases fans with his latest work. “My overall goal is to be able to speak and connect with the world. It’s a pretty big goal to set for myself, but with what I’m seeing right now and the path that I’m on, I think I can do it,” Mac Miller said.

Mac Miller: releases new album

K-HITS bliss to continue According to radioworld.com there are around 14,000 radio stations operating in the U.S, and each day thousands tune into local and national morning shows. The personali-ties that host these shows are hardly a dime a dozen, and each station has specific criteria they want with their D.J.. “First we evaluate talent. We need someone who is funny, creative, and extroverted and... someone who wants to come and stay,” Jet Black, director of operations at 106.9 K-HITS said. The station also has to constantly change their criteria based on their audience’s needs. K-HITS has had a morning show for almost 20 years now, and have had many faces that wake up with Tulsa. Morning host are aimed to represent the station, and to entertain its listeners. 106.9 is in the unique position of finding a new morn-ing show. According to Black, there are many of options for the new show. K-HITS is looking at shows that are similar and different than the previous one, and somewhere in the middle. The choice is not one that is taken lightly. “The decisions I make affect people’s daily lives, and there is a lot of pressure that comes with that,” Black said. To the majority the job may seem interesting, but its de-mands are no walk in the park. Morning personalities have to be at the office around five-thirty in the morning, and after spending four hours straight on the radio, many participate in publicity events around the city. In their off-time, D.J.’s research local events, current news, and the latest music charts. There is a lot of work that goes into radio broadcasting, including selection of music. “[Choosing music] is a lot more scientific than you would think,” Black said. The show looks over chart ratings, researches new art-ists and music, checks online and phone requests from listen-ers, and even considers lyrics they see posted on Facebook before selecting their playlist.

Amy Winehouse lives on Amy Winehouse was a singer who significantly inspired the world with her voice. She affected thousands of people around her. Amy died on July 23, 2011, but this date was not the end of the lost soul performer. This was the beginning, the ceremony of remembrance, and celebration of the life that she led and her accomplishments. Amy’s voice was entirely unique and could be picked out of the crowd within a split second. She was a musician who grasped the atten-tion of the crowd and would not let it go. She would grab the attention of the crowd because she was known for her exotic black hair that was el-evated a foot off of her head. She was the girl who would let out a single note and would stop thousands of people in their tracks. When the artist would perform, there would be a collective awe amongst the crowd. She did not fail to please each fan with her pieces of work. Amy’s death sent a shock around the world. July 23 was a day of mourning. The death of Amy was so rapid that it was an unknown case for a while. Researchers then concluded that the artist lost her life from too much alcohol intake. Amy’s producer, Salaam Remi, had recorded songs with her before her tragic death. He was the one who helped her create her first two al-bums. He listened to seven of the songs and decided that it could be the basis for a hit album. He then started to edit the songs, added backing vocals, and added strings just like he would with any other recording. Except for this album he gets no input from Amy for the direction that the album takes. The new album is called Lioness: Hidden Treasures. It is a mix be-tween hip hop and her original jazzy style that she incorporated in her songs. Some songs on the 12-track album have never been released or heard before. To make the album complete, some of the tracks contain old songs, but are reformed in an alternative version. It also contains pre-viously unreleased songs that she recorded years ago. Her third album was released on Dec. 5 and is now available to buy. This album is a tribute to the famous artist that recognizes her tal-ented work. Amy Winehouse was lost, but she was born an artist and lived every essential minute of it.

Music Page 5

Andrea MayesReporterAmy Pritt

Reporter

Erica EngelbyEditor-in-Chief

Feature Page 6

Holidays

It is the time of year again when changes everywhere grab everyone’s attention. Sales are everywhere in sight. Christmas, Kwanzaa, and Hanukkah are yearly celebrations. These holidays are celebrated by many types of people, including a variety of races extending to far reaching geographical regions.

Kwanzaa is a day to celebrate African and African-American culture for African-based families. Every year it lasts from Dec. 26 to Jan. 1. During Kwanzaa celebrators stick to a strict African-cultural life within their homes. Kwanzaa has three representing colors: Black, which represents the people; red, which represents the African peoples’ past struggles; and green, which represents a hope for a better future.

With Christmas and Hanukkah comes gifts for many. Most people look forward to the holidays because they know to expect gifts in this time. Christmas today is based off of the birth of Jesus Christ. It is celebrated with gift giving and family bonding, and can be celebrated by anyone. Hanukkah, a Jewish holiday, brings eight gifts over a span of eight days in celebration of the Maccabees’ oil lasting eight days when it should have been only enough oil to last one day.

“We light one more candle each night on the Menorah for eight nights to celebrate when the Maccabee’s oil lasted for eight days. After each candle is lit, you get to open one present,” junior Ethan Zalta said.

This is a Menorah which is what the candles of Hanukkah are lit upon each day for a length of eight days.

Traditions continue today Christmas has always been a favorite holiday of many, and with the holidays coming up that means fun family traditions; new and old. Whether it is classic traditions such as opening a present on Christmas Eve or going to a relative’s house, or a unique tradition that has been celebrated in your family for ages, it is times like these that families look forward to every year. “My family and I have fondue on Christmas Eve and Christmas morning we have coffee cake and egg casserole and my mom always buys each of us an ornament and gives it to us on Christmas Eve. These traditions started since we were young,” sophomore Lindsey Larson said. “My favorite is reading Christmas Lizard on Christmas Eve. When I was little my parents would read it to my brothers and I after we put out Santa’s cookies. For as long as I can remember that is what we have done!” sophomore Sophia Short said. Some families attend the various parades in Tulsa County

every year. Another fun holiday activity is decorating a Christmas tree or putting up outside lights with your family. “We read The Polar Express before bed on Christmas Eve and we always go over to my DeeDee’s house with all my cousins and aunts and uncles,” sophomore Allie Sammons said. No matter what your family’s traditions are, it is important to preserve your traditions. These customs contribute to memories that will last a lifetime.

-Sarah Richey

Caroling season is back again

Maddy ReichertReporter

Vocal music has been working hard for many holi-day events coming up. The annual Holiday Home Tour includes performances from all the show choirs: Treble Tones, Trojan Connection, and the Trojanaires. This show choir will also have all members sing a solo at a select house for viewers and guests to enjoy. “My favorite part about vocal music during the holi-days is that we start learning the music before Hallow-een so it gets you in the Christmas spirit!” said Senior Jessica Stacy. Not only are they preparing for this anticipated event but they are also getting ready for their winter concert which will take place on Monday Dec 12. The concert choir, freshman girls choir, and Mixed Chorus will be performing a number of songs. One of them, called Li-ebesiter, is a German mass in engish and a highly im-pressive piece to sing and perform. The Trojanaires will entertain the crowd with their Christmas Medley which includes: Let it Snow, The Christmas Song, and Winter Wonderland . Their show is spiced up with 50’s swing music and a dance break. Trojanaires, doing a number of holiday events, will be singing at “Lights On” in Jenks, and performing for several other local businesses this season. So be on the lookout for your favorite sing-ers! Happy Holidays!

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Reading classic storybooks by a warm fire on Christmas Eve is a favorite tradition of many familes.

lightthe winter season

by reporter Emery Skelton

FeaturePage7

Students travel to fun destinationsSarah Richey

Reporter Whether taking a vacation to a warmer climate or driving to visit family, many students will be traveling over the winter break. Even a short vacation can make the most stressed student feel rested and ready to tackle another semester. “I’m going to Orange County, California to visit my mom. I used to live there so it’s basically like going back home. We’re going down to old town San Diego to go to Sea World, and Mission Beach,” sophomore Shelby McFadden said. Sophomore Abby Biggs said she is also traveling to Southern California for a family vacation over the break. They are staying in New Port Beach and are planning to “go to L.A., Hollywood, Disneyland, and San Diego,” Abby said. “I am going to New York City over Christmas break. My family plans on going shopping and of course to China town. We plan to go to the top of the Empire State Building and to see Mary Poppins on Broadway! I am so excited to go!” senior Katie Carter said. A majority of the students, when asked about their plans, say they will be staying at home relaxing or having family come to their homes over break. Those same students responded that they wish they could travel somewhere warm over the school break and said their preference would be to travel to a beach or take a cruise. Staying home can still be a vacation away from school. For students not traveling over the break, staying at home still allows them to sleep in and de-stress. “I’m going to Pauls Valley to go deer hunting with a friend and my dad. When I’m not hunting, I’ll be playing guitar and singing,” sophomore Evan Alexander said.

The most important part of winter break is spending time with loved ones, whether at home or away from home.

The beach is always a popular vacation destination for many travelers. Many would prefer to travel to a warmer climate over the Holiday break.

Snow sparks seductionby Dallas Elmore

The romantic rush surrounding the holidays can be daunting; indeed, downright intimidating. Girls want a generous amount of Christmas cheer, usually involving some form of present or extravagant date; guys, just want to pass Christmas without having taken a sucker punch to where it hurts: our wallets. However, some of the best holiday cheer can be had not only on the cheap, but on the impressively free.

Rhema, a bible church in Broken Arrow, provides a free Christmas light show every year. Getting lost in the glow of the lights while chasing away the chill of the cold months with a cup of hot chocolate is a perennial favorite of not only those looking for a night out, but families showing children their fi rst experiences of Christmas. Reminiscing about holidays

gone and more to come can while away hours in the luminescent festival Rhema is during December. “A few minutes on the ice works the best" Booker T. Washington senior Rebeccas Qua Jin said. Wooing ones opposite number on the ice skatng rink at the BOK isa classic way to crack the proverbial ice on any fi rst date. A short time at the rink, followed by a cup of joe at anu number of local coffee shops, gives way to long conversation and impromptu ey lacking that is hard to beat. Baking festive pastries can be a sure way to satisfy both your stomach and your wallet. Having a warm fi re going near the kitchen, hot oven at the ready, is a great way to cozy up on a cold winter's night. Cookies, cakes, a frozen pizza, coming toether over food satisfeis the Christmas spirit of gratuitous indulgence. Chandler Park offers a Christmas lights drive through that encourages a romantic night out in one of Tulsas largest parks. The curves of the

Local student couple. juniors Piper Huey and Bradley Smiling, share a romantic evening at the Starbucks at 91st.

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preserves roads can lead to a night wandering and wondering how nature can make such a prime spot for human enjoyment.

The most grandiose gesture one can make is often the simplest. A walk in the crisp night air, decorating a tree, random Christmas caroling; nothing surpasses a date that is well intentioned. Use imagination and the handiest mistletoe, and the holiday memories will remain forever.

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Have a holly jolly holiday cup

Did you wake up this morning feeling slightly festive or just a bit merrier than usual? Perhaps that’s because the start of the holidays holds great significance to America’s caffeine driven consumerist delicacy: Starbucks’s red holiday cups are back and better than ever!

Get excited- these adorable cups were unleashed the day after Halloween and have Starbucks fans drinking coffee (or tea or hot chocolate) in style.

This decorative addition to your favorite Starbucks drink helps set a festive aura to this holiday season. Cups also mean the return of highly anticipated holiday drinks like “Ginger Bread Latte” and the “Thanksgiving Coffee Blend.” Other holiday favorites include, “White Chocolate Peppermint Mocha” and “Pumpkin Spice Latte.”

Not only is Starbucks bringing cheer for everyone to taste, but decorations inside the retail store are more than pleasing to the jolly customers. They include red labels, miniature pine trees, themed gift cards, and holiday mugs for sale. Starbucks release of these festive new designs and unique take on the holiday cups this year are sure to please customers across the U.S.

Starbucks has also unveiled their smart phone application to help spread the holiday cheer. “Cup Magic” lets happy coffee drinkers animate their holiday cups.

Shoppers expect great deals

This day, although not as extreme as Black Friday, holds lots of discounts on Christmas supplies and items for the year to come. Consumers can get great deals on things like wrapping paper, Christmas cards, holiday decorations, and even gifts for the following year. Since items go quickly, it all depends on who gets to what first. Both of these days present the ideal opportunity for shopoholics everywhere. So go crazy this holiday season!

Anxious shoppers wait in line at Target, some were there as long as several days, waiting to get their hands on flatscreen televisions, kindles, and other electron-ics that were priced at unbelievably low prices. Shoppers were seen waiting at other various stores around town including Best Buy, Walmart, and Kohl’s.

With Thanksgiving came many things--the beginning of the holidays, good food, family time, and the opportunity to appreci-ate what has been given to us. However, one event that brought out the competitive drive in people was Black Friday; the day after Thanksgiving, when all the stores released extreme discounts on their merchandise and opened at the crack of dawn. Shoppers waited in lines all night just so they could rush into the store when it opened, and fight their way to their desired prize. “My favorite part is all of the amazing

blackout sales, and the rush you get from all of the chaos,” junior Brianna Pedigo said. Mostly people are trying to get their hands on discounted Christmas or holiday gifts as well as things on everyone’s personal wishlist, but this day is not all fun and games. It requires strategic planning on when and where to be to make sure that the wanted item is gotten before it is gone. Trampling has been an issue in the past, when people have gotten swept into the determined ocean of shoppers fighting their way through the crowds. This year some stores opened as early as Thanksgiving day while most others opened at midnight instead of four or five in the morning, and this had people prepared to stay up all night to wait for those doors of opportunity to open. Another day that has shoppers excited is the day after Christmas.

Madison ReichertReporter

Natalie MillerReporter

First Step: Point your phone’s camera at a holiday cup or other various items in the retail store. Doing so will produce animations involving five characters: an ice skater, a squirrel, a boy and a dog sledding, and a fox on the screen that you can interact with. Rumor has it that those who activate all five characters can qualify to win a prize. Although this app was created for the sole purpose of selling more coffee, it can still be quite amusing! Whether it is breaking the ice on a first date, entertaining your friends, or a strategy to avoid severe boredom on a snow day while relaxing by the

fire, this applicaton is definitely worth checking out.

Starbucks has once again targeted all ages in the production of their new holiday cups, bringing just the right nostalgia to welcome this year’s holiday season!

LifestylePage8

by lifestyle director Annie Roach

Holid

ay w

ishlists ov

erlook

the reason

for the season

As the holiday season fast approaches, all I hear about is what people are asking for Christmas, Ha-nukkah, insert holiday here. While gifting is a big part of the month of December, it seems that people have for-gotten the true reason-- what it’s all about. This season is not just a time to fulfi ll personal wish lists and get that next hottest item. One more thing isn’t what is needed to make our lives a little bit better. Own-ing the latest iPhone isn’t what is going to bring hap-

piness. The month is Decem-ber isn’t just about getting, it’s about giving. Even if there isn’t the money for gifts and things like that for friends and fami-ly, a simple letter, homemade trinket, or even fresh baked cookies can be better than the newest scarf or a giftcard to their favorite store. Something that I feel is lost on our generation is giv-ing WITHOUT getting. It’s not all about what others can do for me once I do some-thing for them. Everything is not politics or economics.

So with the holiday sea-son coming, remember that it’s not about you. It’s about everyone. This isn’t Darwin-ism, survival of the fi ttest should not be our selfi sh view of the world. Remem-ber that being selfl ess is not only more fulfi lling, it helps someone besides just you. This happy month is a time for us to come to-gether, not to just give gifts and replenish our closets or game collection. Remember that it’s not the things in our lives, but the people who make them better.

LifestylePage9

Dick’s Sporting Goods provides many coveted North Face products as well as offers of alternative, more affordable versions of the pricey jackets that are sure to be on several Christmas lists. Their stock of Nike, Underarmour and many other athletic name brands has drawn in the Tulsa crowds.

After generations of up and down success, Gap is back in business. Their creation of staple pieces and cute accessories (including scarves, mittens, hats and various others during the winter season) has made it an often visited spot in any mall across the U.S. Also, if shopping for a boyfriend, Gap has those great sweaters and hoodies that every girl wants to give only to steal back again. Yes, it’s big. Yes, there’s a lot

to go through. But Marshall’s is one of the best shopping spots in Tulsa. Their shoes, clothes (both men and women), dresses and home decor provide a place to go to fi nd a gift for every-one. Located in Tulsa Hills, Marshall’s is an easy access and affordable option to get all that holiday shopping done.

Everyone has that one friend who’s a book worm... And Books-a-Million is the perfect spot to shop for them! While many of the books are full price, they have discount bins as well as music and magazines. Don’t know which book to get? Gift card is the way to go!

Boutiques are the hid-den wonders of holiday shopping-- each shop has different focuses, designs and items to offer so that every gift given is truly individual and well made. While many boutiques focus solely on dresses, there are a few that also carry cute and quirky ac-cessories and books.

Target, although obviously a super store with a grocery section, has amazing cloth-ing and accessory that is not only affordable for any bud-get, but loved by any person. Their wide range of styles and designs is sure to please any gift recipient.

Holiday shopping hot spots

SportsPage10

Championship flair finds a friend in Tulsa

Dallas ElmoreReporter

Collegiate soccer has found a postseason home in Tulsa this November.

The mens' Conference USA soccer tournament was held at the University of Tulsa, bringing a championship flair to a city that often is overlooked when talking about sporting events of a championship importance. Six teams were selected, with an automatic qualification to the NCAA tournament on the line for the winner. The tournament kicked off on Nov. 9 with a match between UCF and Memphis, followed by a fixture between SMU and Marshall. UCF skated by, 4-3, and SMU also narrowly escaped elimination with a

1-0 win. Competion resumed Friday between with match ups between SMU and South Carolina, when SMU slid by again by a 1-0 margin. UAB escaped UCF with a 1-0 victory and advanced to the conference final for a match against SMU. The final was an anticlimactic affair compared to the close competition of the other matches. SMU slotted home goals in the first and second halves and was never seriously threatened by a lethargic UAB. The final score was 2-0 SMU, and with the championship came an automatic berth in the NCAA tournament and a well earned

bye in the first round. “Four top 25 teams reveal the depth of our [TU's] conference” says local coach Chris Mansfield. UAB, SMU, Memphis, and South Carolina were given berths in the NCAA tournament, giving C-USA a tie for third in the conference battle between conferences for most teams in the tourney. In addition to the soccer, six teams of up to twenty five players and staff generated up to a million dollars in the Tulsa economy. The ramifications for Tulsa,both in recognition and in an economic bonus, gives the city incentive to host more championship events.

Tuls

aFlames:light up the ice

by Cam Thomas

Anticipation is mounting as the Tulsa Flames take the ice in their season. The Flames are a youth hockey team who features the all-star players of local high schools. The season is very long and kicked off in October. The hope is to provide local players a chance to showcase their talents. There are sev-eral students from Jenks, Broken Arrow and Bixby on the team. Most of the games take place at the BOK Center. The team plays other teams from Texas and Arkansas. The Flames are generally very competitive in their league, and it is looking as if the same could happen this year. The Tulsa Flames are competing for first place in their league. Also, the team has several games remaining and several games against their conference. The Flames’ season will last through April. Although the high school portion of the Flames is the focus point of the league, the Flames also have a minor league team. This team consists of under 13 players. The high school team helps in the training and con-ditioning of the younger players. The Tulsa Flames are exciting the community and they have a very strong fan base. The Flames bring together fans of area high schools who are usually competing against each other. The games provide a great experience for fans of hockey, and for those who might not be so knowl-edgeable about the game on ice. The Flames hope to win another conference championship this year. The regular season will last through March, with the playoffs beginning in April and culminating with a league championship.

Basketball bounces backBailey Fischer-Columbo

Reporter

Everyone has had, at some point in their life, a little league coach or a piano teacher inculcate the adage “practice makes perfect” into them, and this year’s basketball team never forgot that lesson. Hoping to win it all, the boys basketball team set goals high for this year’s season hoping to take the first ever gold ball home in 6A basketball. Putting more time into practice than ever, the team is exceptionally determined and dedicated. Hours and hours were spent during the off-season to perfect their offensive plays and work out small kinks elsewhere, according to the team. Personal trainers were also brought in from places like Allied Sport Fitness to help build the team’s speed and strength.

Even though competition is tough, especailly against Union, the team is not discouraged and ready to face the season head-on. Their extra effort showed this past weekend, Sat. 12, at an invitational (which Broken Arrow, Edison and Booker T. Washington all attended) when they beat Edison 3-0. “We played back to back games...beat[ing] Edison all three times,” senior Michael De Tello said. The varsity basketball teams will be showing their skills on the court this year starting in Dec. on most Tuesdays and Fridays. Regionals are currently scheduled for Feb. 23rd. Make sure to support your classmates at games this season after all the hard work they have put in.

X & YX Side- Hot Chocolate

Y Side- Eggnog

Don’t wake me if I’m dreaming

Live.Laugh.Love. The debate between dog and cat lovers is as old as time. I will admit dogs have always and will continue to

be my favorite of the two. Dogs are known for their loyalty and being man’s best friend. They greet you when you come home from school smiling and ready to play. They lay at the end of your bed ready to comfort you during a thunderstorm if needed. Dogs are undoubtly friendlier than cats. Cats are known for being grouchy and high maintence. They believe that the world revolves around them. Cats want to be treated like royalty with their owners

beckoning to their every need. Another reason that dogs are better than cats is that dogs are trained to do tricks and behave. They can be taught to play games with you, sit, or even roll over. Cats don’t listen to you and do everything they can to ignore you. Dogs can also accompany you when you go for a jog at the park. Cats do not even enjoy spending time outside. When cats and dogs are young puppies and kittens, they’re both playful and happy. However, only the dog remains in his childhood state once grown up. It’s apparent that dogs are much friendlier and more loving that cats. They will always love you and be there no matter what happens. Dogs definitly deserved to be named “Man’s Best Friend”.

Editors-in-Chief: Rachel Campbell Erica EngelbyLifestyle Director: Annie Roach

Copy Editor: Cam Thomas

Ad Director: Bethany Mann

Advisor: Daniel Manley

Staff: Dallas ElmoreBailey Fischer-Columbo

Rachel LampiBethany MannAndrea MayesNatalie Miller

Amy PrittMadison Reichert

Sarah RicheyEmery Skelton

Ever since seeing the acclaimed scary film, The Ring, I’ve acquired a soft spot for the horror genre. However, as I’ve watch more and more of these macabre movies, I have also become very desensitized and there-fore bored with most of these types of films. It’s rare for me to find a horror movie that actually scares me at all. In my quest for a decently entertaining horror movie, I’ve come to question what it takes to make a good one. There is some attribute apart from special effects and fake blood that distinguishes an amateur horror movie from an exceptional one.

The trait that separates cliched movies like Prom Night from renowned films such as The Shining is the scary, intangible quality of “the unknown.” Fear of something we have no knowledge of is in-nate in human nature- it’s a basic survival instinct. This ingrained fear from unkown things is the single thing in horror movies that can scare me. It’s that panicked feeling you get when you enter a dark room alone, or the reason behind a rushed check under the bed, won-dering what could be lurking there. When in a room, quiet and solitary, with a tangible

darkness, my mind begins to distort the shadows around me into sinister creatures. If I get an iden-tical feeling to this while watching a horror movie, I know that the makers of the film truly understand that. While gore, CGI effects, and disgusting costumes may provoke a few startled cries, the alienation of the mind creates a scare that will haunt the psyche. -Rachel Campbell

We all know what’s truly the superior wintertime drink - what could be more festive than a cup of eggnog during the holidays? It is only available in stores during the winter months, starting in early November and leading sometimes until the middle of January. After that, you have to wait a whole year before getting the chance to taste it again. You can buy hot chocolate at any time of the year, and what’s so special about that? Hot chocolate is safe and boring, a drink that most people have probably tried at least once in their lives. Adding in cinnamon or whipped cream doesn’t make it different anymore, either - everyone does it. Eggnog stands out in a refrigerator’s crowd of juice bottles and milk cartons. You can add ice cream to it for a dessert both unique and delicious, or just drink it plain. So make a toast to the holidays - just make sure it’s with eggnog!

X & Y

It’s that time of year again and the bitter winds are blowing the holidays in. While chilled from the nippy tempera-tures and stingy wind, what better way to warm up from the inside out but with a decadent mug-full of hot chocolate? Hot cocoa is obviously the favored seasonal drink by all for an infinite amount of reasons. Unlike egg-nog, hot chocolate is enjoyed throughout the winter and holiday season - not just one day out of the year. When you order hot chocolate, not only do you get the heavenly gift of the hot chocolate itself, you also get fluffy marshmallows plopped on top all topped off with a creamy mountain of whipped creamand delicious chocolate syrup, yum! So when you’re shopping for the holidays or in and out of town visiting family, don’t forget to pick up a cheerful mug of hot chocolate!

Rachel Lampi

Staff Box

Bailey Fischer-Columbo

OpinionPage11

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