Volume 40, Issue 4 December 16, 2011

tripodiumSalina High School

SOUTH

Dalton Pittenger (’14) and Tyler Boling (’12) perform their dress rehearsal for the Repertory Theatre play “Jill-in-the-Box”. photo by trevor musgrove

tripodium 12.16.11 Page 2

Tripodium Staff

Editor in Chief Alec MainBusiness Manager Eddie FrancoCartoonist Shawn PancoastCopy Editor Sara ChaffeeSports Editor Dylan PistoraPhoto Editor Courtney MainStaff Members Jo Bates Megan Holloway Jessica Pancoast Derek Pistora

TripodiumThe Tripodium is dedicated to publishing news, features, columns, and sports in a unbiased and professional manner. Any news, features, or columns, including letters to the editor are welcome. This publication is a forum for student expression and will not be subject to prior review by USD 305 administration.

Editorial PolicyThe following guidelines will be used in consideration of printing letters to the editor. 1. Letters should be no longer than 200 words.2. Letters should be signed and must include the address and telephone number of the author. No anonymous letters will be published.3. If it is the wish of the author and the editor is in agreement, the author’s name may be withheld.4. The letter must not be libelous, obscene profane, and it must not infringe upon copyright. The letter must not be an invasion of privacy or disruptive of the school process.

Q A&

A:

How do you feel about presidential elections? Sometimes they

are completely ridiculous.

They’re interesting, just interesting.

A:

Politics stay the same in history

Most students here at South have been around for four elections, yet if you look back at some of the commercials or debates from previous elections compared to today, they are nearly the same. Why can’t the United States select a president, or congress, that puts what is best for America, ahead of their own beliefs? Every election, a different

party is elected, or so it seems. Is this because Americans are too impatient? We never want to wait for a president’s policies to take place. Let’s face it, our economy is not going to get fixed over night. America also needs to close the debt we are in, but is spending the answer to get out of it? No. The only way to save money is not to spend it. Maybe our government should take into consideration, the practice of saving money, which so many Americans do. As of now, the American government is in debt, $15.1 trillion dollars. Just to see how big that number really is, the debt per

Learning from mission work ...jobates...

citizen is $48,721. Another question, does anyone really know the answer to our debt problems? Do we take an axe to our entitlement programs, suggested by the GOP, or do we, so to say, “spend” ourselves out of debt. Is cutting taxes a good idea? Well, this would implicate the “trickle-down effect.” In this, business owners have their taxes cut, thus they have more room to expand their business and can hire more workers. The democratic politicians want to spend money to stimulate the economy. In a sense, more money equals more jobs.

...dylanpistora...

Students are taking time out of their holiday breaks and summers to do mission work all around the world. There have been numerous statements saying that once they come back from their dissension that they have a humbling experiences. Each one learns to be more appreciative and grateful for what they have. One of our own students, Sara Chaffee (’12), went to Nicaragua in Central America for two weeks to do medical mission work. She observed that these people who had much less than us still had a tremendous amount of love. Chaffee learned that our country is more focused upon

materialistic belongings. Other students state that there is a humbling process that takes over. They begin to think much less of themselves and much more of those in need. Another thing that had shocked them is when they went home, they found themselves helping out much more around the house or in the community. Students are arising all around to get a spot for the next upcoming mission trip to fufill the need to help out. There are a few risks associated with doing mission work, though. If you are working in a higher altitude destination, there is a risk of elevation sickness.

Luckily, there is a quick fix to this and it is simple, drink water and stay up on your electrolytes. Others worry about getting lost in a unfamiliar area. Leaders of the missions group should at all times know where they are, and going. Make sure you trust the corporation and have a way of contacting someone in case of an emergency. By contacting your local church or research foundations supporting missions work, you can get plugged in right away due to there being a need for help every where nationally and internationally. There is a call for our generation to arise and make a change!

Michael Tran (’13) Kristina Walker (’12)

tripodium Page 312.16.11

...eddiefranco...

Salina sex in high school remains consistentNationwide sex in high school is on the decline

A recent article in the Salina Journal which said sex among teenagers has been going down in the past 20 years. The statistics showed that 20 years ago, 51 percent of teen had sex but now that number is don to 43 percent. That eight percent may not seem like much but nationwide eight percent is a substantial number. Along with just the fact that less teens are having sex, those having sex are using contraception more often. Seventy-eight percent of females said that their first time they used contraception while 85 percent of men used it on their first. One stat that is on the rise is the amount of teens who have used contraception on their most recent sexual experience.

Eighty-six percent of females and 93 percent of men have used contraception whether it be condoms or the pill. Jeanette Peroli from the Saline County Health Department said that sex among teenagers has remained consistent in Salina. “With the economy being down and everything financially sex will stay steady or will slightly increase,” Peroli said. She also feels like its not just an economy thing but that times are changing. “Many people these days just do not have the same morals and views as people had in the past. Abstinence before marriage is extremely rare these days and that leads to more teens having sex,” Peroli said In the past few years, the

percentages of teens having sex in Salina has been the same and she feels that it will continue that same pattern for years to come. This is neither a good or a bad statistic. Nationwide contraception is being used more often so teens are

becoming more educated. “With the population increasing and the percentages of teens having sex staying steady shows that more teens are having sex, it is just in correlation with the increasing population,” Peroli said

Project Tripodium

Thank you to everyone who participated in

Project Tripodium this year! Your donations were

much appreciated!

100%

75%

50%

25%

First Girls Current Girls First Boys Current Boys

Contraception uses first time vs current

tripodium 12.16.11Page 4

...meganholloway... Band members show passion for music Music is a passion shared by all, and for the students that make up the bands here at South this passion goes even further. These bands go beyond the norm and take on alternative, indie and punk rock sounds. Like the great Green Day and The Killers, all bands have to start small and with the Airvents, small seems to be working. The Airvents are a band consisting of three members, lead vocalist and guitar Taylor Memmott (’12), bass player Andrew Memmott (’14) and drummer Tyler Boling (’12). “We’re all self taught and we all have a huge passion for music,” Boling said. The band practices in Boling’s basement weekly. They have five songs written and recorded including “Faulkner Don’t Move” and “Tell Me Anything”. “We are influenced most by bands such as Blink 182, Angels and Airwaves and Weezer,” Boling said. Taylor Memmott, who formed the band about two

years ago, writes most of the band’s songs. He says the songs just come to him. “I’ll play chords and just start rambling and if it sticks I’ll keep it,” Memmott said. The band’s last gig was here at the South High talent show and they plan to have future gigs on a tour in Lawrence. This Feburary, the band plans to play in the Waka Winter Classic, which is a small battle of the bands. If the Airvents win, they’ll get a chance to play

The Airvents pose for a picture. Shown is (from left to right) Andrew Memmott (’14), Tyler Boling (’12) and Taylor Memmott (’12). photo by megan holloway

in a festival over the summer. The band also has an opportunity to open for Boling’s cousin’s band, 2twenty2, for a crowd of 600. “We just want to play shows and get our name out there,” Boling said. The Airvents have both a Facebook page and a page on Reverbnation where they have their songs and videos posted. While the Airvents take on more of a pop sound, another garage band, A Second Chance,

has a sound that’s a bit edgier. A Second Chance consists of singer Kyler Lundgrin (’12), guitarist Charlie Winters (’13), Dylan Pistora (’12), Derek Pistora (’12) and Central student Chris Lytle. “Kyler writes mostly all of our songs, but everyone throws in some lyrics,” Winters said. As for the riffs, Winters, Dylan Pistora and Lytle create them. “We get a lot of our influence from A Day to Remember, Green Day and a local band, The Break Point Method,” Winters said So far, the band has two songs recorded, “Paranoia” and “Inside My Own Head”. They have many other unfinished songs. They are in the middle of one that is currently without a title. Right now, the band is working on covers so they can book a gig. They are covering “1985” by Bowling for Soup and “Inside Out” by Eve 6. The band is also remaking the song “Voodoo” by Godsmack. A Second Chance also has a Facebook and Reverbnation page. They also have their own Android app. “We just want to put music out there and give people something to listen to,” Winters said.A Second Chance jamming at one of their practices. photo courtesy of dylan pistora

tripodium Page 512.16.11

...derekpistora... Art students at South find their creativity Art has always been a creative way to express yourself, and this year is no different. This is Josh Traversie’s (’12) first year of art and he enjoys it very much. “It lets me be creative.” Traversie said.

""

My favorite project this year was when we made carved landscapes into clay.

Josh Traversie (’12)

In art, students make things that have to do with the color wheel, perspectives, shading values and make clay sculptures. The color wheel lets students see how all of the colors correspond with one another. So far Art 1 has only done one perspective project. It was

Michael Shirk (’13) also works on his color wheel painting. This is Shirk’s favorite project so far. photo by derek pistora

3-D Art student Richard Heczko (’12) works on his clay sculpture. Clay is the reason why Heczko likes art. photo by derek pistora

a two-point perspective project so students could know how to keep perspectives and make objects look like they’re behind other objects. Shading and values are also an art staple and students see how different types of pencils can make different types of shades. South doesn’t just offer Art 1 either. Other options are 2-D and 3-D Art, and 3-D Art student Richard Heczko (’12) is in his second year of Art. “I like Art because you get to work with clay,” Heczko said. Another student in his first year of art is Michael Shirk (’13). Shirk has art during sixth block and is working on his favorite project of the year. “My favorite project this year is the color wheel painting,” Shirk said. Most students enjoy art because it lets them make things the way they want them to look

or feel, etc. It also lets them be creative as well, which is mainly why students enjoy it so much. 3-D Art differs from Art 1 and 2-D Art because it focuses on sculptures and 3-D objects,

hence the name 3-D Art. 2-D Art is also an advanced form of art, although it focuses more on drawn images, like perspectives and the difference of shading values.

Josh Traversie (’12) works on his color wheel in art. Traversie likes art because he can be creative. photo by derek pistora

tripodium 12.16.11Page 6

The Science Olympiad team is already beginning to build for their January competition. Science Olympiad is a competition that tests students scientific and engineering abilities.

After their first meeting just this past week the team has assigned partners and events. Now all that’s left is for these students to begin working. “We basically spend a few months working on our event,” member Cassidy Coberly (‘13) said.

Each team is given an event or an objective that they must fulfill. The events can range from sound and music where students must build an instrument without using the original materials of that instrument, to building a gravity vehicle that can reach a target point as accurately and as close to their predicted time as possible. Some events require students to build robotic arms that can pick up and move objects such as pencils, nail and batteries into a goal box. Regionals are on Jan. 18 2012 at K-State Salina. The teams will present their projects to the judges. “After we intensely work on our events, we can do really well,” Coberly said. Last year, the South High Science Olympiad team placed second overall at regionals.

Students who are filled with random knowledge would be right at home in Quiz Bowl. Quiz Bowl is an academic competition that covers all aspects of education including language arts, science, math, social science and fine arts. The competition also asks questions on miscellaneous items such as a football team’s colors or current political issues. Other questions challenge students to know strange, some times called “useless”, information. This section is where students who know random facts are needed. Because the club participates in two meets a year, they only practice through first semester. These practices start at the beginning of the school year and last until December, with the teams last competition taking place in early February.

Quiz Bowl challenges student knowledge ...sarachaffee...

Quiz Bowl regionals will be held at Salina South on Feb. 2. Here, the team will face off against 14 other 5A schools. The top four finishing schools qualify for the state competition, which takes place the following week at Blue Valley Stilwell High School. It is too late to join this year’s team, but they are hoping to gain new players for next year’s competition. If students are interested in participating next year, they need to talk to Palmgren-Shaw.

Academic and miscellaneous questions asked

Science Olympiad member Dylan Pistora (’12) lights methane bubbles on fire for the lip dub video. photo by kristina walker

...meganholloway... Science Olympiad begins work on events

""

After we intensely work on our events, we can do really well.

Cassidy Coberly (’13)

Justin Goble (’13), Kevin Kraus (’14), Cheri Mahoney (’13), Olivia Cooper (’13) and Matthew Haugh (’13) take time to pose for a picture while practicing for an upcoming competition. photo by sara chaffee

""

Quiz bowl is like an athletic team except we don’t have athletic bodies, we have athletic minds.

Olivia Cooper (’13)

tripodium Page 712.16.11

...jessicapancoast...

Fun fight song chosen to start off new school As a South High Cougar, there are many different traditions that many students participate in. One of these traditions is the playing of and dancing to the fight song. Many may know of the fight song, but not many know how it came to be the official fight song of South. When Salina Central split into two schools and Salina South was born, the senior class at Salina South had gotten the

The very first South High Band in 1971. photo courtesy of the preener 1971

privilege to choose the mascot, team colors and the school fight song. They were still indecisive on what the fight song should be. The songs had come down to three semi-finalist songs chosen by the school administration. They had decided to do something different by letting the student body vote, but instead of voting for one of the songs on the ballot, everyone got the chance to write-in an

The 2011-2012 South High Band poses for a group picture. photo by tory erlemeier.

The Mighty Cougars are the very best by farThey fight with South High Pride

The Might will begin to take their next big winWith green and gold on their side

They think they’re neatBut they will soon beat

With all our Cougar pep and prideBecause we are the bestthe best of all the rest

we’ll win this game tonight

alternate choice for the fight song. When election day came, and all the votes were counted, the administration was surprised. Instead of the song options pre-picked, it was surprisingly “Huckleberry Hound”, otherwise known as “Huck”. What made it such a surprise was the fact that it was a write-in vote song. Because “Huck” received the majority of the votes, it became the first and only fight song of

Salina South High School. “We wanted something up-beat and non-traditional,” Brenda Smith (’71). Huckleberry Hound was a popular cartoon theme song in those days, just like Spongebob Squarepants today. “I think the students said ‘Let’s do something funny,’” Darren Brooks, assistant band director, said. “It was the first and is the only fight song for us.”

Salina High School South

Fight Song“Huck”

tripodiumPage 8

WHAT DO YOU Is it too late to be Is it too late to be Christmas break activities

...courtneymain...

50 students surveyed

closed 24th and 25th

Friday Evening 7 - 9:30 p.m. 8:30 - 11 p.m. $6.00 - for one session$8.50 - for both sessionsSaturday Morning 1 - 12:30 p.m.$4.00Saturday Afternoon 2-4 p.m. $5.00Saturday Evening 7:30 - 10 p.m.$6.00 Sunday Afternoon 2 - 4 p.m.$5.00

GO SKATING

WATCH MOVIES

GET HEALTHY

PLAY OUTSIDE

BOND WITH FAMILY

The YMCA offers membership deals for high school students ages 14-18 for $78 a year, with financial aid available if needed.

With winter in the midst, the weather may change from day to day resulting in a chance of snow. Come together with friends to build a snowman, construct a fort or have a snowball fight.

Play a friendly game of Monopoly or Apples to Apples with family to spend time with them. Or sit around the fire to roast marshmallows for s'mores.

New Years Eve: a movie of love, hope, and second chances that is told in intertwining stories around New York City. The film includes many famous actors and actresses including Halle Berry, Jon Bon Jovi, Zac Efron, Katherine Heigl, Ashton Kutcher, Sarah Jessica Parker and many more.We bought a Zoo: a father moves his family to the countryside in southern California to renovate and re-open a struggling old zoo. Starring Matt Damon and Scarlett Johansson. In theaters December 23.Sherlock Holmes: Sherlock Holmes and his sidekick Dr. Watson are back again for another exciting adventure. The two join forces to bring down their fiercest adversary, professor Moriarty. Starring Robert Downey Jr. and Jude Law. In theaters December 16.

Lexi Sutton (’12) poses with Santa, Kristen Jewel (’14) during lunch time in the commons. photo by kristen kirk

tripodium Page 9

Top 12 Student Last

Minute Gifts:

Coffee Doll Movie Perfume Clothes

GOODWILL MISC. C . D . Poster Gift CarD

Flowers Home-made Craft

For Sister:A first thought to come to mind might be the new Justin Bieber album, Taylor Lautner poster or a clothing store gift card. If you are on a time crunch and everything is sold out, you can never go wrong with purchasing lotion or body fragrance. To play it safe, purchase an iTunes gift card because it allows them to buy what they want. For younger sisters, Hannah Montana, Camp Rock and High School Musical are all subjects of interest. Team Edward or Team Jacob apparel is popular. Another spotlight for gifts is coloring books, and any other creative project that allows them to design it.

For Mom:The last thing you want to do is forget to get a present for your mom. When you were younger, you got by with making a simple craft and a card. Now what to do? Making her dinner or giving her flowers is a sweet, and easy thing to do that can help take a load off for her. A new cook book, a soft blanket, or perhaps a photo album, are ideas that any mother would enjoy. When buying presents, you can buy many little items that go together. Purchase in theme; a movie, snacks, such as popcorn and hot chocolate, and blanket all create a splendid movie night. This is a great way to configure a gift because it is cheap and creative.

For Dad:Some fathers would appreciate vintage records, while others would enjoy a football jersey. Though some items seem to be on the hot commodity list, look to see what they use everyday. If they are a regular coffee drinkers, perhaps get a variety of new, eccentric flavors for him to try; along with a coffee cup. For the outdoor dads, camouflage apparel for hunting would be useful and simple to pick out.

For Brother:A new, fun and cheap idea is to go to Goodwill and pick out an assortment of random items; such as outrageous outfits and records. For younger brothers, the simplest gifts can be the coolest to them. A Hot Wheels car set, Lego set, or a movie from you will thrill them. Anything with their favorite show, sport, or hobby will guarantee a great gift. Also, any toys that involve them building or creating a project would interest him.

Q A&What last minute gift have you gave somebody?

...marisamitchell...

Is it too late to be Is it too late to be Last Minute Christmas GiftsChristmas break activities

Kevin PolandSocial Studies teacher

A dog.A:

Katie Siemsen (’14)Roses and candy.A:

Gage Kerns (’13)

Justin Bieber PerfumeA:

Lydia Newquist (’15)

A half opened bag of chips.A:

Lexi Sutton (’12) poses with Santa, Kristen Jewel (’14) during lunch time in the commons. photo by kristen kirk

tripodium 12.16.11Page 10

Flashback upon the 90’s Q A&

A:

A:

What do you remember most about the 90’s?

The annoying Ferbies!

Sir-Mix-A-Lot rapping baby got back.

Chenell McClanahan (‘13)

Blake Loe (‘13)

Taylor Karcher (’12)

I remember perms were the thing.A:

The 90’s were a memorable time frame in history, and the upperclassmen at South this year might be the last classes to remember them. Remember waking up early every Saturday to watch cartoons? Kids would begin the morning with the watching of “Hey Arnold” and then Nickelodeon would suck children into watching “The Rugrats”. This is where students learned how to overcome obstacles in a baby-proof home and get into areas and belongings that were not supposed to be in a kids hands. After all of the afternoon cartoons were over, there would be begging to parents to have a friend stay the night. While using the puppy dog pouting technic, kids would finally get their way. Getting dressed for the fall weather, mothers would put kids in bulky florescent jackets, worn out sketchers or light up shoes and washed out denim jeans. Students would play for hours pretending that long sticks were army weapons or racking the front yard was just a task while playing house with a close childhood friend.

Once working up a appetite, there would be more puppy dog eyes to get the one thing every child longs for: McDonald’s. After being full of chicken nuggets and french fries, there would be a live concert in the bedroom. This would include either singing into a hair brush that a child thought was a microphone or jumping on the beds to Backstreet Boys or Britney Spears. At last came bed time, which was usually around 10 p.m, when VHS was the thing. Space Jam was always the choice to watch to get settled down. When parents heard continuous laughter throughout the middle of the night, dad or mom would barge into the room demanding that the kids got to sleep. They would end up just laying straight in bed acting as though they were asleep and the second they would leave, they would be giggling under their breath. With graduation coming faster than students have expected, they look back upon the 90’s realizing that the junior and senior classes may be the last to appreciate the memorabilia as such.

...jobates...

The Game Boy is one of Nitendo’s greatest productions of all time. 1989 was the first year is purchasable in Japan, but is was not until 1990 Game Boy boomed in the states. The most popular games to play at this time were Tetris, Ledgens of Zelda, and The Super Mario Bros.

“Hey Arthur” is a children’s book written by Marc Brown. Brown had so much success that PBS Kids wanted to make an animated television series. It first aired on Sept. 2, 1996. There have been over 360 episodes, and “Hey Arthur” is about to begin its 17th season.

Friends, a national sitcom written by David Crane and co-writter Martta Kauggman, was first aired Sept. 22, 1994. America got hooked watching the six close friends of Joey, Phoebe, Rachel, Ross, Monica and Chandler.

These plastic joint dolls were created by Chris Wiggs in the early 1990’s. Polly Pockets received their name due to them being pocket sized, just right for traveling. In 1999 there was a new era for Polly, the Fashion Polly Pocket! There were new characters to join Polly such as Lea, Shani and Lilia.

tripodium Page 1112.16.11

Ryan Zrubeksenior

Carlie Olsonsophomore

Brandon Cox-Pruitt

freshman

Rayshell Humphrey

junior

Ry

Pookie

Caveman

Ray Ray

play

both

watch

both

hanging out with friends

playing softball

fighting

playing softball

The Hangover

Winnie the Pooh

The Smurfs

Immortals

haunted houses

clowns

chihuahuas

sharp pencils

Last movie seen in a theater?

Favorite hobby?Sports: watch or play?

Childhood nickname?

Strangest fear?

Faces in the hall ...sarachaffee...

courtesy of beginning journalism student ...courtneymcclellan...

Preparing your vehicle for the winter season

It’s seven in the morning and you walk outside, only to find that your car will not start. This problem could have been avoided all together had you just followed simple winter preparations for your car. The inspection is simple. For your car, you should check the anti-freeze, battery, all of the lights, tire condition, windshield wipers, belts and hoses, all filters, change the oil and have a roadside emergency kit. Doing these short and easy tasks will improve your vehicle’s condition for winter. Experts recommend emergency kits, as they are useful in tough situations. Getting a tune-up would never hurt either.

Product AutoZone O’Reilly Walmart NAPA

Anti-freeze 50/50 $11.99-$16.99 $9.99 $7.87 $9.49

Band-aids N/A N/A $3.93 N/A

Battery testing Free Free N/A Free

Blanket N/A N/A $7 N/A

Bottled Water N/A N/A $2 N/A

Deicer $3.99 $3.89 $3 $3.49

Emergency Kits $24.99 N/A N/A N/A

Flares $5.99 N/A $5.99 N/A

Flashlight $2.99 or in kit $4.99 $5.28 $1

Granola Bars N/A N/A $1.84 N/A

Jumper Cables $24.99 or in kit $9.99 $15.99 $25.49

Oil $25.98 $25.00-$40.00 $20.00-$45.00 $17.00-$50.00

Slime (Fix-a-flat) $8.99 $8.99 $8.94 $11.99

Windshield Wipers

$6.99-$12.99 $18.99-$25.99 $4.57-$19.47 $5.49-$10.99

Product Comparison Chart

tripodium 12.16.11Page 12

Lady Cougars start season on rough note

Boys swimming opens season with a bang The boys swimming team traveled to Emporia, to compete in a six team meet. South placed second with 479 points, only behind Washburn Rurual, who scored 596 points. “We’ve progressed really well, we have a lot of young guys and they’ve performed really well early in the season,” said Bryce Kampfe (’12). South had a few new state qualifying times with Kampfe in the 100 butterfly and 100 backstroke. Kampfe won both events. The 200 medley relay team, consisting of Kampfe, Mason Darnell (’12), Wade Burlew (’12) and Brodie Bowell (’12) swam to a state qualifying time as well as taking second in the event. Darnell placed first in the 50 and 100 freestyle.

For the first road test of the early basketball season, the Lady Cougars traveled to Buhler on Dec. 9, and came out on a victorious note. Megan Holloway (’13) led the team against Buhler accumulating 27 points. The Lady Cougars defeated Buhler 51-39. Buhler did not help themselves turning the ball over 13 times in 13 minutes, converting one of eight free throws and shot only 20 percent from the field. “I feel like we’re getting better, we are learning quickly and we’re taking some significant strides,” coach Jason Hooper said. Dec. 6, was the night that the Lady Cougars welcomed the Newton Railers to South, but came up short, 35-48. The Lady Cougars struggled in the second quarter, but made up the ground with a great third quarter, led by Holloway and Janai Mitchell (’13), who combined for 16 of

the 18 points to close the gap t0 33-35. The Lady Cougars led 9-8 after the first quarter, but Newton exploded into the second quarter, scoring nine straight buckets to widen the lead to 17-9. The Lady Cougars couldn’t quite pull off the comeback, as they faded once the fourth quarter came, which started with Newton scoring 11 of 12 from the free throw line, after going 9 of 20 for the first three periods. The loss against Newton drops the Lady Cougars to 0-2 overall and 0-1 in AVCTL league play. “I like our team, the pieces of the puzzle are there, we just have to figure out where they go and we want to be where we want to be at season’s end,” Hooper said. The Lady Cougars battle cross-town rival, Salina Central

Kampfe, Darnell, Burlew and Clay Peppiatt (’13) placed second in the 400 relay, and Ben Forrester (’12) placed second in diving. Peppiatt placed third in the 500 freestyle.

...dylanpistora...

...dylanpistora...

The Cougars put in a state-qualifying performance on Dec. 1. Kampfe and Darnell led the way. Kampfe won the 200 individual medley and 100 freestyle. Darnell won the 100 butterfly and the 50 freestyle along with punching his ticket

tonight for Salina supremacy. After the Lady Cougars get their first shot at the Mustangs, the Lady Cougars then are off to Hutchinson to play the Salthawks on Jan. 3, before coming back hoome to play

Campus on Jan.6 here at South. On Dec. 2, the Lady Cougars played host to the McPherson Bullpups. The Lady Cougars were dropped 34-52 by the Bullpups.

""

This year is kind of a rebuilding year, we have young talent and a good mix of young and experienced swimmers.

Bryce Kampfe (‘12)

although one has already been held, and also hosts the AVCTL League meet on Feb. 11, then off to state. “This year is kind of a rebuilding year, we have young talent and a good mix of young and experienced swimmers,” said Kampfe. The Cougars look to get back to where they were, just two seasons ago, at the top of the Kansas 5A swimming world. Last season, the boys swimming team placed 3rd at the state competition in Topeka. Kampfe placed second in 200 yard IM with a time of 25.73 and Forrester placed fifth in one meter diving 271.45 points. On their way to state, last year, the Cougars placed third at the AVCTL league meet.

Megan Holloway (’13) gets a pass from Janai Mitchell (’13) during South’s game against Newton. photo kelsi baird

to the state competition held in Topeka in Feb. Darnell, Kampfe, Burlew and Peppiatt took 1st in 200 freestyle and 400 freestyle. Forrester (205.75 points) accounted for the Cougars’ other victory. The Cougars qualified for state in seven different events. The Cougars now have to travel return to Salina to face cross-town rival Salina Central (Jan. 5), before returning to Salina and host the Salina South Invitational on Jan. 12. The Cougars finish up the month with a trip to Wichita Northwest on Jan. 28. Then hold the final Salina South Invitation, before finishing the regular season in Manhattan. The Cougars holds four home swimming events this year including three different Salina South Invitationals,

tripodium Page 1312.16.11

Boys basketball team wins in thrilling fashion

Wrestling team starts with blowout win The Cougar Wrestling team got out to a large lead Dec. 1 against cross town foe Salina Central. The final score was 66-7 in favor of the Cougars, including seven pins all within the first two periods, and four forefits when Central had open weights. Central was open in the first three weight classes, so after a first period win by Tyler Irwin (’14) at 113 pounds, and Javier Vieyra’s (’12) second period win at 120 pounds, with that the Cougars led 30-0. The Cougars lead was increased when John McNabb (’14), Brycin Freeland (’14) and Cole Hoover (’15) added to South’s pin total. Last year South beat Central 60- 12. On Dec. 3, the Cougars traveled to Campus for the Campus tournament. This was not an individual tournament, but a team tournament. The Cougars would only win one match to go 1-3. The Cougars then traveled to

...derekpistora...

...derekpistora...

On Dec. 2, the Cougar Basketball team hosted McPherson. South lost 32-67. The following game the Cougars hosted Newton for what turned out to be a thrilling game. South won the game 46-44 as a last second buzzer beater fell by Justin Stonebraker (’14).

Maize on Dec. 8 to take down the Eagles. South was down 18-4 through the start of the match, but came back to win 40-30. This was South’s first meet with Maize this year. South is now 2-0 this year in the Ark Valley Chisolm Trail League (AVCTL), got a major decision in Brandon Jost (’12) for their only win in the first six matches. The Cougars would contintue winning, with six of the last eight in favor of South. Including pins from Hoover, Bryce Whelchel (’12), Tanner Barnett (’13), and Brady Munsch (’12). The win by Munsch put South in the lead for the first time, 28-24, and South ended with forfeit victories For Tanner O’ Donnell (’13) and Kole Smith (’14). This past Saturday (Dec. 10) South competed at the Clay Center Tournament. South had four placers, Brady Munsch took first, Tanner O’Donnell and

John McNabb took second, and Alex Parker (’15) took third.

""

I expect a strong finish, we’ll continue working hard.

Javier Vieyra (’12)

“This year we have a young team, but full of hard workers,” Javier Vieyra said. Vieyra is currently undefeted through the early season. “I expect a strong finish, we’ll continue working hard,” Vieyra said. Tomorrow, South will stay home as they battle Derby. Derby has won one and lost one with a few tournaments in between.

""

When it went in, it was an exciting, unreal feeling.

Justin Stonebraker(’12)

“All I could think was that I hope it goes in,” Stonebraker said. “When it went in, it was an exciting, unreal feeling.”

On Dec. 9, South traveled to Buhler for what was not going to be a close game. South was defeated 41-73. Tonight South and Central will play for the first time at the Bicentennial Center. South lost both games last year 62-63 and 39-54. “We have a young team, we’re still learning what we’re good at and what it takes to be successfull,” coach Matt Renk said. “We will continue to grow and improve on things that we struggle with right now,” Renk said. Overall this game tonight regardless of which side you’re on, should be an intense game like they always are.

Kyle Smith (’12) shoots a free throw during a home game. photo by sean pakkarato

Tyler Irwin (’14) tries to pin a wrestler from Central. South won the match 66-7. photo by shelby heier

tripodium 12.16.11Page 14

...jessicapancoast...

Video games effect student lifestyle

...eddiefranco... New bill allows corporations to block websites

One very popular activity students do in their free time would be playing video games. Although video games may be fun, they have a quality that makes them addictive. Many teens now are choosing video games over school work, and, it turns out, video games are one of the main causes of bad grades. “I don’t get a lot of homework done because of video games,” Pearl Tucker (’13) said. Even though games may be fun, they can affect the minds of teens. To be specific, playing violent games for an extended period of time tend to make teens more aggressive and make them more prone to confrontation with their teachers. Also teens

may engage in more fights with their peers and they may see a decline in school achievements. There are some advantages to playing video games. For example, families can become closer to each other through fun competitions. It has also been said that the X-Box 360 kinect games have made teens and families more active with the games they’ve played. Finally, playing video games is a good way to let out feelings. “If I’m angry and need to get it out, shooting people in games brings enjoyment since shooting people in real life is frowned upon in society,” Tucker said. Even though there may be some advantages, over playing video games can cause more

The entertainment industry is attempting to pass a bill that will allow private corporations to shut down and eliminate websites that have any forms of copywrited content on them. This will virtually wipe the website from the internet. This new bill is called the Protect IP Act. The new bill will attempt to achieve its goal in three different ways. They will first attempt to block access to infringing domain names. So, when typing in a website name such as facebook.com it will come up with a blocked webpage much like the USD 305 block. This will stop people from accessing the webpage, and its illegal content. Accessing the website is still possible through its IP address, so entering that number into the URL ba will still bring up the website. Corporations are also going to have the power to sue specific

search engines, hosting sites, social media sites or blogs to remove any links they have of illegal content. So, Facebook or Twitter could be sued just to have one specific user remove an illegal link.

A less direct approach corporations will use is to cut off all the funding to the infringing websites. They will have the power to tell any companies advertising with them or supporting them to immediately cancel all ads and subscriptions. This is the most indirect way but one of the most effective. Without money

who use sites such as Facebook and Twitter with those crimes just for having a post with an infringing link. The only problem with this bill is the ability to enforce it. “This bill will be very unenforceable. As one site gets shut down five more will pop up in its place. It will have the Streisand effect,” Sundell (’12) said. With all the sites getting shut down it would kill the economy. The economy is the greatest tool for shopping and advertising. The entertainment industry does provide a substantial amount of money but it is not even comparable to the revenue of the internet. This bill could catastrophically change the modern world as we know it.

problems to the brain and the physical appearance of a student. It can also cause them to slack in school grades and is one of the smaller causes of unhealthy Americans.

a website cannot run so it will shut down completely, not just blocked. What all of this will do is create a different internet depending where you are at in the world. People in America could have sites block but if they travel to the UK they will have different sites blocked. This will lead to a huge amount of power to the governments of different countries. Some people believe that this new bill will lead to a changed internet environment. “If this bill is passed, it is a violation of free speech, and the internet will no longer be a free thing where you can express yourself,” Kyle Sundell (’12) said. The new law is going to change pirating and illegal file sharing crime up to a federal felony and attempt to prosecute any offenders with five years in jail. They will be charging people

Sundell

""

If this bill is passed, it is a violation of free speech, and the internet will no longer be a free thing where you can express yourself.Kyle Sundell (‘12)

Popular video games at South

HighCall of Duty: Modern Warfare 3- 43 percent

Assassin’s Creed: Revelations- 11 percent

Battlefield 3- 5 percent

Dance Central- 30 percent

Madden games - 11 percent

100 surveyedPearl Tucker (’13) intensely plays a video game at home. photo by jessica pancoast

tripodium Page 1512.16.11

Q A&A: A:

What is the best Christmas present you have ever received?

My iPod because I use it the most.

The electric guitar I got in the eighth grade.

Destiny Benson (’13) Justin Goble (’13)Colin Truhe (’15)

I got a trick-bike when I was four.A:

candy canes eggnog elves gingerbread

hollyjollymistletoeNoel

ornamentpresentsRudolphsleigh bells

snowmanstockingswinter wonderlandwreathyuletide

Holiday crossword• Seven percent of mall Santas

have a criminal history.• Over two billion dollars are

spent each year on pictures with Santa.

• 25 percent of pet owners have their animal pose for a picture with Santa.

• Artificial Christmas trees outweigh real trees in usage by over five million.

• Americans generate four million tons of trash from wrapping paper.

• “Jingle Bells” was originally written for Thanksgiving.

• Christmas became a national holiday in 1870.

• In Greek, X means Christ. That is where the term X-mas comes from.

• The average American walks five miles between parking lots and stores during the Christmas season.

• Seven out of ten dogs get presents from their owners.

• Christmas trees are edible.

Did you know?

1. Elf2. Christmas Vacation3. The Polar Express4. How the Grinch Stole Christmas5. The Santa Clause6. Home Alone7. Miracle on 34th Street8. A Charlie Brown Christmas9. A Christmas Carol10. The Santa Clause 2

Staff ’s favor i te hol iday movies

...sarachaffee...

tagged Page 1612.16.11From chemistry to fundraising for a great cause, here is where each student gets tagged.

1.

1. Carly Grit (’12) walks through halls of students while filming the school’s upcoming lip dub. photo by meghan oliver

2. Bailey Waters (’15) and Taylor Sitton (’12)work together on a debate assignment in Jody Eves’ class. photo by mallory brown

3. Katelyn Miller (’14) works on a blow paint project for Jessica Harris’ 2-D Art class. photo by eddie franco

4. Cody Burnett (’12) and Justin Davis (’12) exchange high fives before a basketball game. photo by jo bates

5. Alex Segovia (’15) dances to the Cha Cha Slide in Music and Movement class. photo by trevor musgrove

6. Physics teacher Lyric Cairns demonstrates potential energy by using a bowling ball pendulum. photo by eddie franco

2.

3.

4.

5. 6.