by Olivia Underwood
Lately it seems as though the only movies being released are remakes and sequels. But are these sequels any good or should you skip these new releases of old stories?
The 1982 Disney released the cult classic science fiction film Tron to critic acclaim. Tron slowly because a fan favorite because of its advanced (at the time) use of graphics and live action and so it made some sense that now, over 20 years later, Disney would attempt to capitalize on this fan base with the sequel Tron: Legacy.
Tron: Legacy follows Sam Flynn’s quest to find his father after his father’s pager activates 25 years after his disappearance. Sam finds his father’s hidden lab in the back of an arcade and is sucked into “the Grid” a cyber world in which users and programmers battle for control. Sam’s father has been trapped in the Grid and hiding from his own creation Clu, a program seeking to create the perfect world. Sam attempts to help his father escape but when Clu steals Sam’s father’s info disc that can unlock the portal to the real world it’s a race against the machine to make it to the portal before it closes.
This movie was visually entertaining and had a good soundtrack (if you like techno, which I do) but the plot and acting didn’t leave any lasting impressions. The original Tron was popular partly because the technology was so revolutionary and that simply isn’t true anymore. Today’s audiences are too used to advance special effects and graphics for that to carry a movie. All in all, this movie is fine if you’re stuck at home with a virus but not a favorites.
Monday, April 25, 2011
Sunday, April 17, 2011
Rebecca Black: A Viral Sensation
by Kayla Foushee
The day of the week is Friday, what is the first thing that popped into your head? “It’s Friday, Friday, getting down on Friday.” Yes, Rebecca Black’s notorious “Friday” video. It’s time to shed some light on her overnight stardom.
Rebecca Black was born June 21, 1997. According to wikipedia.com she gained widespread fame over the negative comments on her 2011 “Firday” video. This song was dubbed “the worst song ever.” By April 12, 2011 the video had over 1.9 million dis-likes and 250,000 likes. This song was released on iTunes for sale. It is estimated to have generated $40,000 from the first week of sales.
This song is showing up on top 100 charts all over the world. Rebecca Black is currently working without a record deal but is soon going to release a new album.
This goes to show that is you know the right people you can become a star. Rebecca Black was virtually a nobody. But with the help of $4,000 and a little mom “power,” she became an internet sensation.
In our country it doesn’t take much to be a star. Our funny video, one internet screw up, and you’ve landed you self a seat on every late night sticom you can think of. Even though she is famous for now it doesn’t mean it’s going to last for very long. So bash Rebecca Black all you want, but she’s still more famous than you are.
“It’s Friday, Friday, getting down on Friday. Everybody’s looking forward to the weekend.”
The day of the week is Friday, what is the first thing that popped into your head? “It’s Friday, Friday, getting down on Friday.” Yes, Rebecca Black’s notorious “Friday” video. It’s time to shed some light on her overnight stardom.
Rebecca Black was born June 21, 1997. According to wikipedia.com she gained widespread fame over the negative comments on her 2011 “Firday” video. This song was dubbed “the worst song ever.” By April 12, 2011 the video had over 1.9 million dis-likes and 250,000 likes. This song was released on iTunes for sale. It is estimated to have generated $40,000 from the first week of sales.
This song is showing up on top 100 charts all over the world. Rebecca Black is currently working without a record deal but is soon going to release a new album.
This goes to show that is you know the right people you can become a star. Rebecca Black was virtually a nobody. But with the help of $4,000 and a little mom “power,” she became an internet sensation.
In our country it doesn’t take much to be a star. Our funny video, one internet screw up, and you’ve landed you self a seat on every late night sticom you can think of. Even though she is famous for now it doesn’t mean it’s going to last for very long. So bash Rebecca Black all you want, but she’s still more famous than you are.
“It’s Friday, Friday, getting down on Friday. Everybody’s looking forward to the weekend.”
Tuesday, March 29, 2011
Vote Yes 2 PCHS and give Paris some color
by Kayla Foushee
Say yes to the new PCHS! That’s what all the talk’s about! I want a new locker room! I want a new band room! Ooh how about a new gym! Everyone is talking about the new and improved PCHS.
Take a walk through the halls Paris Cooperative High School. It’s bleak and old, broken down but still up. It’s like watching a movie in black in white. Our school had no hope until Illinois State offered to pay up to 65% of a new school building for Paris Cooperative High School! Thus the color movies were invented.
This proposal from Illinois State is like a new flat screen TV while our old high school was the boxy dinosaur. It’s hard to imagine an amazing high tech, contemporary high school in Paris. But with the help of our town passing the vote it’s a dream that can become a reality.
This amazing opportunity we’ve been given is a once in a life time thing! Our high school is 102 years old. “I would vote yes because it’s a wonderful opportunity to take advantage of!” Said Tisha Brinkley. It would cost $10 to $12 million dollars to keep our school in running order just for the next few years. All those repairs eventually start to add up. Don’t you think it’s time for a new school?
According to yes2pchs.com, the only difficult part is the vote. In order for the state of Illinois to supply 65% of the money, the yes 2 pchs has to get more than 50% vote yes from district 4 and district 95. If the necessary votes are not received the money will go to build a school in a different community.
Citizens of Paris, Illinois! This is your call to action! When this vote comes around on April 5th vote yes! Don’t make your children be the only kids to watch life in black and white!
Say yes to the new PCHS! That’s what all the talk’s about! I want a new locker room! I want a new band room! Ooh how about a new gym! Everyone is talking about the new and improved PCHS.
Take a walk through the halls Paris Cooperative High School. It’s bleak and old, broken down but still up. It’s like watching a movie in black in white. Our school had no hope until Illinois State offered to pay up to 65% of a new school building for Paris Cooperative High School! Thus the color movies were invented.
This proposal from Illinois State is like a new flat screen TV while our old high school was the boxy dinosaur. It’s hard to imagine an amazing high tech, contemporary high school in Paris. But with the help of our town passing the vote it’s a dream that can become a reality.
This amazing opportunity we’ve been given is a once in a life time thing! Our high school is 102 years old. “I would vote yes because it’s a wonderful opportunity to take advantage of!” Said Tisha Brinkley. It would cost $10 to $12 million dollars to keep our school in running order just for the next few years. All those repairs eventually start to add up. Don’t you think it’s time for a new school?
According to yes2pchs.com, the only difficult part is the vote. In order for the state of Illinois to supply 65% of the money, the yes 2 pchs has to get more than 50% vote yes from district 4 and district 95. If the necessary votes are not received the money will go to build a school in a different community.
Citizens of Paris, Illinois! This is your call to action! When this vote comes around on April 5th vote yes! Don’t make your children be the only kids to watch life in black and white!
Dear John: Review of a Romance Novel
by Valerie Lau
Nicholas Sparks, the internationally-bestselling Christian-romance author that wrote many of the books you see in movies, is the author of the highly popular book, Dear John.
Dear John begins with telling the background of John Tyree, a rebel that joins the army because he thinks that’s what is best for him. On his leave, John travels back to his hometown Wilmington, North Carolina, to see his Dad. There he meets Savannah Curtis. After only 2 weeks of being with her, he falls into a kind of love that leaves Savannah waiting for him while he finishes his tour of duty. They promise to marry each other when John finishes the army. 9/11 changes everything. John feels it’s his duty to his country to continue serving and he signs up for 2 more years. This takes a hard toll on their relationship. Can they survive? Read the book to find out.
Dear John is one of my favorite books. It’s completely well written and really easy to read. I would recommend it to anyone who likes romance or war stories.
Nicholas Sparks, the internationally-bestselling Christian-romance author that wrote many of the books you see in movies, is the author of the highly popular book, Dear John.
Dear John begins with telling the background of John Tyree, a rebel that joins the army because he thinks that’s what is best for him. On his leave, John travels back to his hometown Wilmington, North Carolina, to see his Dad. There he meets Savannah Curtis. After only 2 weeks of being with her, he falls into a kind of love that leaves Savannah waiting for him while he finishes his tour of duty. They promise to marry each other when John finishes the army. 9/11 changes everything. John feels it’s his duty to his country to continue serving and he signs up for 2 more years. This takes a hard toll on their relationship. Can they survive? Read the book to find out.
Dear John is one of my favorite books. It’s completely well written and really easy to read. I would recommend it to anyone who likes romance or war stories.
Sunday, March 13, 2011
Texting: A Dilemma During School
by Valerie Lau
Most people wonder why kids text during class. They ask, why can’t they just keep their phones off? For some people they can. Some people don’t text during class because they think it’s wrong, but some people do for their own reasons. I asked two different people if they think texting is a good or a bad thing.
When asked if she thought texting during class was okay, freshman Renna Throneburg, said, “Yes, because you might need your phone for emergencies.” This reason has been a debate for many years. Some parents do think it’s okay for students to have their phones on during class because their parents may need to get a hold of them for various reasons such as, family emergencies, doctor’s appointments, etc. Some people disagree with this though because they think kids won’t use their phones for just that reason. They want phones off during class because they think they’ll use them to text friends or cheat on tests, homework, or quizzes.
Some teachers even think that having phones on during class is okay because then students can use them to look up things on the internet.
Britan Abernathy agrees with the people who think students should have their phones off during class. She says, “No, students shouldn’t have their phones on because it’s distracting and students don’t learn as well.” I agree with her statement. Students can easily be distracted with cell phones. They can be focused on answering texts so much that they fall behind.
So is texting during class okay? Mrs. Keys says, “Texting is okay as long as it’s your parents and I know about it.” Do you thinks it’s okay? It’s really up to you to decide.
Sunday, February 27, 2011
Teen Pop Stars: Normal Teens or Gods?
by Blade Hall
Why does this nation obsess over teen pop stars? All they are are normal teenagers with a lot of make-up and auto tune. Teens and tweens alike go crazy for teen pop sensations such as Selena Gomez, Justin Bieber, and Miley Cyrus.
What’s even weirder is that most of these stars have no singing talent. They lip-sync or auto tune most, if not all, of their songs. Another weird thing is that these stars, with the exception of Justin Bieber, began on Disney or Nickelodeon. They shoot a music video and BAM! they’re the next big thing in pop culture.
When asked why they thought people, particularly teen and tween girls, obsess over teen pop stars such as Justin Bieber and get “Bieber Fever,” a junior, Sabrina Cooley, replied “the girls find him attractive and he does have an alright voice.” Oh, really now? On the other hand, another junior here at PCHS, Eli Wiley, said “I think that lately in music and pop culture there has been no 'TRUE' talent and any guy that tween girls think is 'cute' can step onto a stage and lip-sync through a microphone…any tween girl is going to love them.” And when asked about why pop stars such as Justin Bieber are viewed as more of a god than a teenager, he quickly replied, “[Justin Bieber] is the face that’s always put on a screen or stage and they idolize what they see.”
So, do these pop stars have talent or do they just have the looks and the connections to get them into a studio and on stage where the auto-tune and lip-syncing comes in? Maybe some actually do have true talent, but so far, we haven’t seen any yet.
Why does this nation obsess over teen pop stars? All they are are normal teenagers with a lot of make-up and auto tune. Teens and tweens alike go crazy for teen pop sensations such as Selena Gomez, Justin Bieber, and Miley Cyrus.
What’s even weirder is that most of these stars have no singing talent. They lip-sync or auto tune most, if not all, of their songs. Another weird thing is that these stars, with the exception of Justin Bieber, began on Disney or Nickelodeon. They shoot a music video and BAM! they’re the next big thing in pop culture.
When asked why they thought people, particularly teen and tween girls, obsess over teen pop stars such as Justin Bieber and get “Bieber Fever,” a junior, Sabrina Cooley, replied “the girls find him attractive and he does have an alright voice.” Oh, really now? On the other hand, another junior here at PCHS, Eli Wiley, said “I think that lately in music and pop culture there has been no 'TRUE' talent and any guy that tween girls think is 'cute' can step onto a stage and lip-sync through a microphone…any tween girl is going to love them.” And when asked about why pop stars such as Justin Bieber are viewed as more of a god than a teenager, he quickly replied, “[Justin Bieber] is the face that’s always put on a screen or stage and they idolize what they see.”
So, do these pop stars have talent or do they just have the looks and the connections to get them into a studio and on stage where the auto-tune and lip-syncing comes in? Maybe some actually do have true talent, but so far, we haven’t seen any yet.
Childhood books leave lasting impression
by Olivia Underwood
“So many things are possible just as long as you don't know they're impossible.” Norton Juster’s The Phantom Tollbooth is full of fun and wise advice such as this. As a young child I heard this book from my father as he read out loud this imaginative, funny, wonderful story. The humor of Juster’s world influenced me as I grew and each time I read it I find something new to love. Remembering my favorite childhood book made me wonder what kind of stories and books had influenced my friends as children. Did they still remember them? Did they still love them? How important is what we read to our children?
“When I was younger my parents read me Possum Came a Knockin’, Brown Bear, Brown Bear What Do You See? And The Hungry Caterpillar,” remembers Erica Sheeran, a junior at PCHS. “They made me happy and put me to sleep.”
The stories we read to our children can have huge effects on their lives. Erica says, “They made me a reader.”
We have to be aware of what we are reading to our kids, it’s just as important as what they’re watching. But that does not mean we should stop the time together, the words we read aren’t the only thing that children hear. They also hear the love it takes to sit down and spend time with them, and their imaginations flourish under that love.
“Of course I’ll read to my kids!” Erica says. “It makes them think.”
Monday, February 14, 2011
Skinny Jeans: In Style or Just Plain "Gay"?
by Blade Hall
Skinny jeans seem to be the controversial topic of teen boys. Are they cool and in-style or just "homosexual" like some people say? I’ve asked people around the school and was shocked to hear that people have mixed emotions about this subject.
“Guys should be able to wear skinny jeans if they want to and not have a second thought that people are going to call them gay.” says Hannah King; a junior here at PCHS. When asked if she thought a guy was homosexual for wearing them, she quickly exclaimed, “Heck no!”
On the opposite side of this topic, when Shane Mason, a freshman here at PCHS, was asked the same question, he said “I think it’s kind of weird. I see a lot of girls wearing skinny jeans and then all of a sudden guys start wearing them, and it just freaks me out.” He described them as being a little on the “fruity” side but not a direct indicator of homosexuality.
Why do some people jump to conclusions that “Oh, he’s wearing skinny jeans, he must be gay!” Why can’t a guy wear skinny jeans and not get questioned about his sexuality every five minutes? It seems like there’s a growing number of males wearing skinny jeans and even with more people wearing them, some people don’t want to say that you can be straight and also wear skinny jeans. There’s a little thing called freedom of expression and maybe these guys are wearing them because they’re a new trend or just because they think they’re comfortable.
The goal is to break down the stereotype that only homosexual guys wear skinny jeans. There are a lot of teens that get made fun of just because they wear tight pants. It’s ludicrous that people can’t wear what they want because they think they’ll get made fun of. Just think about these things before you label someone as "gay" for wearing skinny jeans because who knows? You may just as easily be called a name or stereotype for wearing something you like or having your hair a certain length. So, don’t judge people on the way they look. Get to know people before you stereotype them with a certain group.
Sunday, February 13, 2011
Valentine's Day: The Holiday of Love
by Kayla Foushee
Nothing says “I love you” like a box of assorted chocolates! Valentine’s Day is the holiday where you can let the romance fly. There’s no limit to what you can do. Your sweetheart will expect chocolates even if she is on a diet. Calories do not count on Valentine’s Day. Valentine’s Day is a great way to show someone you love how much you really about them.
According to associatedcontent.com it’s expected that on February 14, 2011 the Valentine’s industry will collect more than $17 billion dollars. Our televisions are bombarded with commercials for jewelry, perfume, candy, and flowers. Red hearts and cupids are everywhere. Women have always been considered to be more romantic than men. The unexpected thing is that men tend to spend twice as much money as women do on Valentine’s Day.
Florists look at Valentine’s Day with mixed emotions. They know they will be collecting millions of dollars. However, the long hours and customer demands can be stressful. Many people generally men, wait until the lat minute to try to purchase flowers and gifts. Therefore, the florists can charge much higher prices for basic bouquets.
Valentine’s Day is also a great way to strengthen relationships. People can examine what their relationship is all about. “What does a relationship mean to you?” I asked two couples that very question. “A relationship is being able to tell each other things no one knows,” said Kerry Johnson. Natalie McMullen, one half of the other couple said, “The key thing is to have fun and enjoy life, and keep each other close.” Another question I asked was “What are three things needed in a relationship that help make it last longer?” “Through things you need our humor, trust, and friendship,” Said Kerry Johnson. The second couple said, “Things that are important to me is my life and the one I love, and living everyday like it’s my last.”
Valentine’s Day is a romantic holiday but also it can help you define your relationship. It allows the couple to see if they have the same idea of what their relationship means. Some people judge love based on how much money is spend and for some it is the thought that counts. One thing is certain: Valentine’s Day is all about love. Hey, and don’t forget to check out the Valentine’s from PCHS students on our homepage: PCHSTigerTales.blogspot.com
Nothing says “I love you” like a box of assorted chocolates! Valentine’s Day is the holiday where you can let the romance fly. There’s no limit to what you can do. Your sweetheart will expect chocolates even if she is on a diet. Calories do not count on Valentine’s Day. Valentine’s Day is a great way to show someone you love how much you really about them.
According to associatedcontent.com it’s expected that on February 14, 2011 the Valentine’s industry will collect more than $17 billion dollars. Our televisions are bombarded with commercials for jewelry, perfume, candy, and flowers. Red hearts and cupids are everywhere. Women have always been considered to be more romantic than men. The unexpected thing is that men tend to spend twice as much money as women do on Valentine’s Day.
Florists look at Valentine’s Day with mixed emotions. They know they will be collecting millions of dollars. However, the long hours and customer demands can be stressful. Many people generally men, wait until the lat minute to try to purchase flowers and gifts. Therefore, the florists can charge much higher prices for basic bouquets.
Valentine’s Day is also a great way to strengthen relationships. People can examine what their relationship is all about. “What does a relationship mean to you?” I asked two couples that very question. “A relationship is being able to tell each other things no one knows,” said Kerry Johnson. Natalie McMullen, one half of the other couple said, “The key thing is to have fun and enjoy life, and keep each other close.” Another question I asked was “What are three things needed in a relationship that help make it last longer?” “Through things you need our humor, trust, and friendship,” Said Kerry Johnson. The second couple said, “Things that are important to me is my life and the one I love, and living everyday like it’s my last.”
Valentine’s Day is a romantic holiday but also it can help you define your relationship. It allows the couple to see if they have the same idea of what their relationship means. Some people judge love based on how much money is spend and for some it is the thought that counts. One thing is certain: Valentine’s Day is all about love. Hey, and don’t forget to check out the Valentine’s from PCHS students on our homepage: PCHSTigerTales.blogspot.com
Monday, January 31, 2011
"Naked Roomate" offers advice to college-bound
by Olivia Underwood
As every high school student knows, college is going to be totally different from any experience we’ve ever had, unless of course you live with your classmates, have little parental supervision, and have to pay for everything. With so many changes and new faces and places, college looks like a scary place but with the right guidance there’s nothing to fear. And there is one book that can help you.
“This book could help me with money, college living, and even dating,” Erica Sheeran said after looking through The Naked Roommate.
Questions about these things can scare the college excitement right out of you but The Naked Roommate: and 107 Other Issues You Might Run into in College by Harlan Cohen can help you through. By interviewing graduates, surveying students, and drawing on past experience Cohen has brought together a useful guide for every question you could think of, including the ones you never thought to ask.
Cohen has dared to ask even the riskiest of questions that every student wonders but no one asks such as: “Should I have sex?”and “Should I drink?” But also answers the standard “How do I avoid the freshmen 15?” and many more. This book is made to guide college bound students as painlessly as possible and covers a wide variety of useful subjects.
The Naked Roommate even has its own blog, a website where student, teachers, graduates, and parents can share stories, videos, advice, and questions directly to each and Cohen. Cohen has done everything possible to inform and entertain college fearing kids so if you have any questions about your future check this book out as soon as possible.
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
Season of Sharing
by Meredith Penczek
Christmas time is time of giving. People are out doing charity work all over. People helping with organizations like Salvation Army, Shop with a Cop, Toys for Tots, and other charity groups. Everyone starts feeling grateful for what they have and not sad for what they don’t. Many of our own PCHS organizations are joining in the holiday spirit. Groups like Key Club, S.A.D.D., and C.A.M.A. are all helping in different ways. All of them are helping by bell ringing for Salvation Army at Wal-mart, Rural King, and Kroger. Key Club’s members helped by calling people for donations for Shop with a Cop. “People are always more giving during this time of the year, and they’re really nice when you are helping with a good group, like Key Club.” Key Club member Madeline Wilson reported after helping raise money for Shop with a Cop. Another group outside of school that helps with 4-H. 4-H has recycling every second and fourth weekend of the month. “I never thought that people in Paris, actually were really into recycling, but you can tell just by the turnout how people feel. We usually have good turnouts even in the winter.” Freshman Sarah Powers told us. Sarah is usual at recycling. The different 4-H clubs switch between weekends of recycling. Ms. Earlywine is a good example of what it means to give. She not only gives to those less fortunate than her, but she also helps animals. We all know that she has always been the charitable type. She often talks about her foster animals and refers to some of her students’ personalities to her pets’.
Many of the school organizations are giving little pushes for students to help with charity, but many of the advisors hope that the students really get something out of doing the work.
Christmas time is time of giving. People are out doing charity work all over. People helping with organizations like Salvation Army, Shop with a Cop, Toys for Tots, and other charity groups. Everyone starts feeling grateful for what they have and not sad for what they don’t. Many of our own PCHS organizations are joining in the holiday spirit. Groups like Key Club, S.A.D.D., and C.A.M.A. are all helping in different ways. All of them are helping by bell ringing for Salvation Army at Wal-mart, Rural King, and Kroger. Key Club’s members helped by calling people for donations for Shop with a Cop. “People are always more giving during this time of the year, and they’re really nice when you are helping with a good group, like Key Club.” Key Club member Madeline Wilson reported after helping raise money for Shop with a Cop. Another group outside of school that helps with 4-H. 4-H has recycling every second and fourth weekend of the month. “I never thought that people in Paris, actually were really into recycling, but you can tell just by the turnout how people feel. We usually have good turnouts even in the winter.” Freshman Sarah Powers told us. Sarah is usual at recycling. The different 4-H clubs switch between weekends of recycling. Ms. Earlywine is a good example of what it means to give. She not only gives to those less fortunate than her, but she also helps animals. We all know that she has always been the charitable type. She often talks about her foster animals and refers to some of her students’ personalities to her pets’.
Many of the school organizations are giving little pushes for students to help with charity, but many of the advisors hope that the students really get something out of doing the work.
Monday, December 6, 2010
Liar
by Valerie Lau
Do you like suspense? Do you like mysteries and unsolvable crimes? If you say yes to any of these, then Liar is the book for you. Justine Larbalestier is the author of this book and according to the book she says, “This book has been messing with my mind for the last five years.” Throughout the book, it keeps you on your toes. You never know what’s going to happen.
The main character is Micah Wilkens, a high school senior in New York City. In the book, she freely admits she’s a compulsive liar trying to stop, but she never does. In her past years, she’s tricked her teachers and fellow classmates into believing unbelievable stories such as her father being a rich drug dealer with personal servants. She became so bad about lying that her friends don’t believe anything she says anymore. So when her boyfriend, Zachary Rubin, goes missing, who do you think people will blame? She insists over and over that she is not to blame for this, but is she lying? Find out in the book.
I actually really enjoyed reading this book. I didn’t want to put it down after I started. However, I don't recommend this to anyone under the age of thirteen because it has some sexual references and language. If you pick this book, you won’t be disappointed. Honestly.
Do you like suspense? Do you like mysteries and unsolvable crimes? If you say yes to any of these, then Liar is the book for you. Justine Larbalestier is the author of this book and according to the book she says, “This book has been messing with my mind for the last five years.” Throughout the book, it keeps you on your toes. You never know what’s going to happen.
The main character is Micah Wilkens, a high school senior in New York City. In the book, she freely admits she’s a compulsive liar trying to stop, but she never does. In her past years, she’s tricked her teachers and fellow classmates into believing unbelievable stories such as her father being a rich drug dealer with personal servants. She became so bad about lying that her friends don’t believe anything she says anymore. So when her boyfriend, Zachary Rubin, goes missing, who do you think people will blame? She insists over and over that she is not to blame for this, but is she lying? Find out in the book.
I actually really enjoyed reading this book. I didn’t want to put it down after I started. However, I don't recommend this to anyone under the age of thirteen because it has some sexual references and language. If you pick this book, you won’t be disappointed. Honestly.
Friday, November 19, 2010
Openness About Drugs at PCHS
by Christine Porter
The openness about drugs among students at Paris high school about drugs is insane. Some kids here don’t really care who is around when they shout it to the whole school. You would think that people wouldn’t say anything about what they do over the weekend or even right before school, but they do.
Elise Svendsen said, “I hear about kids at school doing drugs pretty much every day and maybe once or twice during the weekend.”
People get a bad reputation when they say things about smoking weed or drinking. When talking to people that don’t do things like that, they don’t really know what to say because it makes them uncomfortable.
Mickaela Clark said, “It makes me uncomfortable to hear about people ruining their lives over something that isn’t worth it.” She also said that she doesn’t do it because she doesn’t see the point in wasting money for nothing. Why would you waste your time on something that is going to get you nowhere in life? When you can go and get an education and make a name for yourself without doing drugs.
When you get into drugs it’s really hard to get out of them and change your life. It may just start as smoking cigarettes then eventually you just take a hit of weed. Weed is usually just the gateway drugs to more and worse things. Most kids before high school said that they were never going to do drugs. Then, by the end of their freshman year, they have either tried it or they do it all the time. When that happens it’s usually the beginning of the end. Kids start not listening in class. Then, they start to skip school and not care what their parents have to say. Eventually kids run away from home and throw their lives away, and they start to regret what they did as a teenager. People at our school need to realize what they say and how it affects others in the school and their family members.
The openness about drugs among students at Paris high school about drugs is insane. Some kids here don’t really care who is around when they shout it to the whole school. You would think that people wouldn’t say anything about what they do over the weekend or even right before school, but they do.
Elise Svendsen said, “I hear about kids at school doing drugs pretty much every day and maybe once or twice during the weekend.”
People get a bad reputation when they say things about smoking weed or drinking. When talking to people that don’t do things like that, they don’t really know what to say because it makes them uncomfortable.
Mickaela Clark said, “It makes me uncomfortable to hear about people ruining their lives over something that isn’t worth it.” She also said that she doesn’t do it because she doesn’t see the point in wasting money for nothing. Why would you waste your time on something that is going to get you nowhere in life? When you can go and get an education and make a name for yourself without doing drugs.
When you get into drugs it’s really hard to get out of them and change your life. It may just start as smoking cigarettes then eventually you just take a hit of weed. Weed is usually just the gateway drugs to more and worse things. Most kids before high school said that they were never going to do drugs. Then, by the end of their freshman year, they have either tried it or they do it all the time. When that happens it’s usually the beginning of the end. Kids start not listening in class. Then, they start to skip school and not care what their parents have to say. Eventually kids run away from home and throw their lives away, and they start to regret what they did as a teenager. People at our school need to realize what they say and how it affects others in the school and their family members.
Giving Thanks
by Allison Pardi
Various students and teachers from Paris High School we're asked what they were thankful for:
Ms. E. - "Oh tons of stuff. I'm thankful for my family, food, my house, animals, my job and my life."
Rachel E. - " I am thankful for toilets and trashcans, and cars."
Sheri G. - " I am thankful for food, my daddy, Jakey's mommy, and my life."
Natalie M. - " I am thankful for being able to breath and have a roof over my head. Also, I am thankful for being in love.”
Mr.Dundas - “ I am thankful for my health, the bears, the future linebackers of America. I am also thankful for my family and my awesome guitar skills.”
Mr. Smith - “ I am thankful for my job, my wonderful family, indoor plumbing, my car, and my life. I am also thankful that we get the opportunity to have a new high school soon.”
Mrs. Hannah, Mr. Smith’s assistant - “I am thankful for my family and my friends. More importantly I am thankful to almost be done with college!”
Mikela W. - “I am thankful for my best friend Allison who is amazing beautiful and gorgeous! However, I am more thankful to have freedom of speech, even though it always get me in trouble.”
Sierra G - her dog and having a place to live.
Alexis P. - “I am thankful I get a meal every day, and that I get the chance to go to school.”
Austin - “I’m glad I’m almost done with high school.”
Chelsea A. - “I am thankful I get to come to school, I am glad that I have a home to come to.”
Michael J. - “I am glad that we have soldiers fighting for our freedom.”
Brett B. - “I am thankful for my family.”
Everett C. - “I am thankful for football and every sport in the world.”
Allison J. - “I am thankful for my family and my friends.”
Cameron K. - “I am thankful for my home.”
Jason A. - “I am thankful that my parents don’t yell at me everyday like some do."
Jessica J. - ”I am thankful for my dad.”
Jordan A. - “I am thankful for my whole entire family."
Various students and teachers from Paris High School we're asked what they were thankful for:
Ms. E. - "Oh tons of stuff. I'm thankful for my family, food, my house, animals, my job and my life."
Rachel E. - " I am thankful for toilets and trashcans, and cars."
Sheri G. - " I am thankful for food, my daddy, Jakey's mommy, and my life."
Natalie M. - " I am thankful for being able to breath and have a roof over my head. Also, I am thankful for being in love.”
Mr.Dundas - “ I am thankful for my health, the bears, the future linebackers of America. I am also thankful for my family and my awesome guitar skills.”
Mr. Smith - “ I am thankful for my job, my wonderful family, indoor plumbing, my car, and my life. I am also thankful that we get the opportunity to have a new high school soon.”
Mrs. Hannah, Mr. Smith’s assistant - “I am thankful for my family and my friends. More importantly I am thankful to almost be done with college!”
Mikela W. - “I am thankful for my best friend Allison who is amazing beautiful and gorgeous! However, I am more thankful to have freedom of speech, even though it always get me in trouble.”
Sierra G - her dog and having a place to live.
Alexis P. - “I am thankful I get a meal every day, and that I get the chance to go to school.”
Austin - “I’m glad I’m almost done with high school.”
Chelsea A. - “I am thankful I get to come to school, I am glad that I have a home to come to.”
Michael J. - “I am glad that we have soldiers fighting for our freedom.”
Brett B. - “I am thankful for my family.”
Everett C. - “I am thankful for football and every sport in the world.”
Allison J. - “I am thankful for my family and my friends.”
Cameron K. - “I am thankful for my home.”
Jason A. - “I am thankful that my parents don’t yell at me everyday like some do."
Jessica J. - ”I am thankful for my dad.”
Jordan A. - “I am thankful for my whole entire family."
Friday, November 5, 2010
All Time Low
by Kayla Foushee
“I’ve never told lie and that makes me a liar. I’ve never made a bet but we gamble with desire. I’ve never lit a match with intent to start a fire, but recently the flames are getting out of control.” All Time Low is an American alternative rock band from Baltimore, Maryland, formed in 2003. The members of All Time Low are vocalist and rhythm guitarist Alexander Gaskarth, lead guitarist and backing vocalist Jack Barakat, bassist and back vocalist Zachary Merrick, and drummer Rian Dawson. The band's name is taken from lyrics in the song "Head on Collision" by New Found Glory.
The guys formed All Time Low while still in high school, and started out doing remakes of songs from other alternative bands such as Green Day and Blink-182. They signed their first record deal with Emerald Moon Records in 2004 and released their first Extended Play titled The Three Words to Remember in Dealing with the End later that year. Their first studio album, The Party Scene, was released July 2005. Before graduating high school in 2006, they signed a record deal with Hopeless Records and re-recorded songs from their debut album and included two new songs for their Extended Play Put Up or Shut Up.
“We were so privileged to get signed to Hopeless Records. A lot of bands don’t make it this far. We are also much like family here.” Rian Dawson said this when he was asked how he felt about the band.
All Time Low now headlines in their own majors tours and are the biggest band in their alternative rock genre. Right now the band is on a small tour around the country. Most recently they played a show in St. Louis at the Firebird.
“We know we have the best fans in the world. You stand in crowded rooms sweating to death screaming our songs. That, my friends, is dedication, and we love you for it.” Alexander Gaskarth said the night of the concert.
“So take my life, I'll hand it to you. And you can try on my clothes, but you can't fill these shoes. On a silver platter your wish came true; see a heart of gold turn platinum. You can take me life, but you can't take you with you.” These are the lyrics from there song Poison. When asked about this song Jack said, “You know we try to be as down to earth as possible, and we try to write songs that relate to what we and other people went through and are going through. This song is basically just about how people try to fit in all the time and sometimes it only takes one person to stand out and it snow balls from there.”
All in all, All Time Low is a down to earth band. They care about their fans, they even try to spend as much time with their families as possible. All Time Low is at an all time high and getting bigger. Basically they are the biggest band you’ve never heard of, but why don’t we change that?
“I’ve never told lie and that makes me a liar. I’ve never made a bet but we gamble with desire. I’ve never lit a match with intent to start a fire, but recently the flames are getting out of control.” All Time Low is an American alternative rock band from Baltimore, Maryland, formed in 2003. The members of All Time Low are vocalist and rhythm guitarist Alexander Gaskarth, lead guitarist and backing vocalist Jack Barakat, bassist and back vocalist Zachary Merrick, and drummer Rian Dawson. The band's name is taken from lyrics in the song "Head on Collision" by New Found Glory.
The guys formed All Time Low while still in high school, and started out doing remakes of songs from other alternative bands such as Green Day and Blink-182. They signed their first record deal with Emerald Moon Records in 2004 and released their first Extended Play titled The Three Words to Remember in Dealing with the End later that year. Their first studio album, The Party Scene, was released July 2005. Before graduating high school in 2006, they signed a record deal with Hopeless Records and re-recorded songs from their debut album and included two new songs for their Extended Play Put Up or Shut Up.
“We were so privileged to get signed to Hopeless Records. A lot of bands don’t make it this far. We are also much like family here.” Rian Dawson said this when he was asked how he felt about the band.
All Time Low now headlines in their own majors tours and are the biggest band in their alternative rock genre. Right now the band is on a small tour around the country. Most recently they played a show in St. Louis at the Firebird.
“We know we have the best fans in the world. You stand in crowded rooms sweating to death screaming our songs. That, my friends, is dedication, and we love you for it.” Alexander Gaskarth said the night of the concert.
“So take my life, I'll hand it to you. And you can try on my clothes, but you can't fill these shoes. On a silver platter your wish came true; see a heart of gold turn platinum. You can take me life, but you can't take you with you.” These are the lyrics from there song Poison. When asked about this song Jack said, “You know we try to be as down to earth as possible, and we try to write songs that relate to what we and other people went through and are going through. This song is basically just about how people try to fit in all the time and sometimes it only takes one person to stand out and it snow balls from there.”
All in all, All Time Low is a down to earth band. They care about their fans, they even try to spend as much time with their families as possible. All Time Low is at an all time high and getting bigger. Basically they are the biggest band you’ve never heard of, but why don’t we change that?
Thursday, November 4, 2010
All Grown Up: Teen Pregnancy
by Christine Porter
Do you know anyone who has been pregnant at a young age? Being pregnant at a young age would obviously be hard for most people. You don’t have many choices that you want to think of. There is abortion which means you would have to abort the baby and live with the guilt. There is adoption which can be complicated and heart wrenching for the young mother. You could keep the baby, but give up your future.
Teenage pregnancy is the worst thing that could happen to a teenage girl. It could also be the best. You can see it as a wakeup call. Clean your life up; be motivated to get an education. Some teens don’t have a choice. They might be forced to have an abortion or forced to give the baby up for adoption, because they can’t take care of it.
Katie Keller was a teen mom. She had her son as a senior in high school. It was very difficult for her because her parents weren’t very supportive of her. They didn’t help out very much. She got married right out of high school and that didn’t last long. She worked as a CNA at Pleasant Meadows in Chrisman. That wasn’t quite enough to take care of a child. She had no way of getting a college degree until she got older and her children were able to take care of themselves. Her life hasn’t been easy at all.
“I wish girls would realize that one moment of happiness isn’t worth a life of regret,” says Katie Keller of the issue of teen pregnancy.
If you are a pregnant teen think twice about your decision. Make the best choice for your child. Also, if you are a sexually active teen think about the consequences of your actions and don’t just think about yourself. Think about the other people around you and how it will affect them, and I hope you will think before you act.
Do you know anyone who has been pregnant at a young age? Being pregnant at a young age would obviously be hard for most people. You don’t have many choices that you want to think of. There is abortion which means you would have to abort the baby and live with the guilt. There is adoption which can be complicated and heart wrenching for the young mother. You could keep the baby, but give up your future.
Teenage pregnancy is the worst thing that could happen to a teenage girl. It could also be the best. You can see it as a wakeup call. Clean your life up; be motivated to get an education. Some teens don’t have a choice. They might be forced to have an abortion or forced to give the baby up for adoption, because they can’t take care of it.
Katie Keller was a teen mom. She had her son as a senior in high school. It was very difficult for her because her parents weren’t very supportive of her. They didn’t help out very much. She got married right out of high school and that didn’t last long. She worked as a CNA at Pleasant Meadows in Chrisman. That wasn’t quite enough to take care of a child. She had no way of getting a college degree until she got older and her children were able to take care of themselves. Her life hasn’t been easy at all.
“I wish girls would realize that one moment of happiness isn’t worth a life of regret,” says Katie Keller of the issue of teen pregnancy.
If you are a pregnant teen think twice about your decision. Make the best choice for your child. Also, if you are a sexually active teen think about the consequences of your actions and don’t just think about yourself. Think about the other people around you and how it will affect them, and I hope you will think before you act.
Wednesday, November 3, 2010
The Wonderous World of Mr. Ogle: Part II
by Blade Hall
He is an English teacher at PCHS. He is a husband. He is a father of three children. He is a military veteran. He is Mr. Ogle.
Mr. Ogle has served a total of six years in the U.S. military from 2000-2006 and was deployed in places like Bulgaria, Iraq, Kuwait, and Germany. While serving our country over in Iraq, he missed many unforgettable moments in his family’s life, one of which was the birth of his daughter. While he had a few weeks time here and there to spend with his first born child, he really hadn’t spent much quality time with his daughter until she was ten months old, which was when he left the military to come back to his family and become a teacher here at Paris Cooperative.
“It was great, tough at times, but I wouldn’t change a thing,” states Mr. Ogle about his time serving. He went on to relate the lessons he learned. One of these that was the most important to him was the value of spending time with his kids. He said that too many parents lose the importance of watching a movie or sitting down and playing Sorry with their kids. Now, when his kids ask him to play with them, he thinks of what it was like when he lost that time while being in Iraq and how he missed out on so much of his daughter’s first year.
So parents and future parents, I guess the life lesson here is to pay attention. Cherish those small, seemingly insignificant moments with your family; because that may be all you have to remember them by when they’re gone, whether they’ve moved away, passed on, gone to college, or been deployed to Afghanistan. In a roundabout way, this has come to a simple fact, family is everything.
“I am who I am today because of it,” states Mr. Ogle. And who is he? A inspiring teacher and a great father. To read more of Mr. Ogle’s thoughts on parenting, read his blog: My Adventures in Fatherhood
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
The Wonderous World of Mr. Ogle: Part I
by Blade Hall
Mr. Ogle started his teacher blog two years ago to try and extend the classroom and its discussions. He had wanted to try and reach out to students that needed help outside of class. This past summer he started to do his Adventures in Fatherhood blog as a hobby and hopes to use it as a rough draft for a book he wants to write about his life and, as the name implies, what he has experienced as a father. He also wanted to build a relationship with his students on a more personal level and show that teachers have families and lives outside of school too; they aren't just robots that go on the charger after 3:20 and get off at 8:10.
Mr. Ogle also teaches a creative writing class that’s meant to prepare students for college and designed his lesson plans and class work to resemble those of a college class. One of the things that he has his students do is frequently write a blog. So far he’s been surprised by the knowledge that his students show through their blogs and how passionate they are about the things that they write about. These blogs have been viewed by people from fifteen different countries, but he wants to get these literacy works viewed by a bigger audience of viewers. The topics of these blogs range from school life to things like hunting and mechanics. Then, there are some that are modeling Mr. Ogle’s own blog and talk about their home lives or what it’s like to be a brother or sister.
Mr. Ogle wants his students to take the skills that they learned in class and apply them to whatever career they choose so they “can go beyond English.”
Thursday, October 21, 2010
Curl Up on the Couch with Something Scary
by Olivia Underwood
With Halloween just a short time away, now is the time to stock up on Hollywood’s scariest horror films. But with so many out there, which scary movies are looking good and which ones are looking sad? Well I’m here to help with my handy-dandy pumpkin scary scale!
1 Pumpkin = Is this movie a comedy?
2 Pumpkins = Oookay, a little spooky.
3 Pumpkins = NOOOO! DON’T GO IN THERE!
4 Pumpkins = I think I just peed my pants…
Movie 1: Alfred Hitchcock’s Psycho = 4 Pumpkins
This movie is a classic and a must see for all horror or suspense movie lovers. As always Hitchcock’s use of music, atmosphere, and just the right amount of gore gives viewers an enjoyable ride. This film follows the story of the strange disappearance of blonde beauty Marion from the sinister Bait’s motel. With a twisty ending and an awesome starring role played by Antony Perkins, this is one you shouldn’t watch alone.
Movie 2: Killer Clowns from Outer Space = 1 Pumpkin
Alright, I know there are many people that are deathly afraid of clowns, but this movie is simply ridiculous. The plot follows a man as he tries to save a town from the evil clowns that have crash landed their space ship nearby. Although the clown costumes are a little creepy, the fights are ridiculous, the drunken sheriff is annoying, and the acting is terrible. Not surprisingly, with a 1 Pumpkin rating, this is one you can skip.
Movie 3: The Invasion = 3 Pumpkins
This 2007 remake of the classic Invasion of the Body Snatchers is a thrilling ride of suspense with one of my favorite actresses, Nicole Kidman, as the starring role. Kidman plays a mother and a doctor who must save her son from an alien invasion of the microscopic scale. The rules of the game? Never trust anyone, never show emotion, and NEVER fall asleep. For making me look a little funny at my friends and neighbors, I give this movie three pumpkins.
Movie 4: Sleepy Hollow = 2 Pumpkins
This movie is a Tim Burton retelling of the tale of the headless horsemen. With Johnny Depp as policeman Ichabod Crane, this movie is a wonderful time but isn’t quite as scary as some. There are plenty of bloodless decapitations but I would still recommend that you give this enjoyable movie a try.
With Halloween just a short time away, now is the time to stock up on Hollywood’s scariest horror films. But with so many out there, which scary movies are looking good and which ones are looking sad? Well I’m here to help with my handy-dandy pumpkin scary scale!
1 Pumpkin = Is this movie a comedy?
2 Pumpkins = Oookay, a little spooky.
3 Pumpkins = NOOOO! DON’T GO IN THERE!
4 Pumpkins = I think I just peed my pants…
Movie 1: Alfred Hitchcock’s Psycho = 4 Pumpkins
This movie is a classic and a must see for all horror or suspense movie lovers. As always Hitchcock’s use of music, atmosphere, and just the right amount of gore gives viewers an enjoyable ride. This film follows the story of the strange disappearance of blonde beauty Marion from the sinister Bait’s motel. With a twisty ending and an awesome starring role played by Antony Perkins, this is one you shouldn’t watch alone.
Movie 2: Killer Clowns from Outer Space = 1 Pumpkin
Alright, I know there are many people that are deathly afraid of clowns, but this movie is simply ridiculous. The plot follows a man as he tries to save a town from the evil clowns that have crash landed their space ship nearby. Although the clown costumes are a little creepy, the fights are ridiculous, the drunken sheriff is annoying, and the acting is terrible. Not surprisingly, with a 1 Pumpkin rating, this is one you can skip.
Movie 3: The Invasion = 3 Pumpkins
This 2007 remake of the classic Invasion of the Body Snatchers is a thrilling ride of suspense with one of my favorite actresses, Nicole Kidman, as the starring role. Kidman plays a mother and a doctor who must save her son from an alien invasion of the microscopic scale. The rules of the game? Never trust anyone, never show emotion, and NEVER fall asleep. For making me look a little funny at my friends and neighbors, I give this movie three pumpkins.
Movie 4: Sleepy Hollow = 2 Pumpkins
This movie is a Tim Burton retelling of the tale of the headless horsemen. With Johnny Depp as policeman Ichabod Crane, this movie is a wonderful time but isn’t quite as scary as some. There are plenty of bloodless decapitations but I would still recommend that you give this enjoyable movie a try.
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
She Calls Him Raymond...
by Blade Hall
Brett Eldredge’s first single, “Raymond”, was premiered on CMT October 1st. He wrote the song while thinking about his grandmother, who has Alzheimer’s. Because of this first hit he’s been named CMT’s “Next Big Thing.”
While watching the music video, I can remember thinking to myself, “Wow, these are such deep, emotional song lyrics.” This is a great thing for someone so young and him being a “rookie” in the country music business. It shows that he has great potential and he’s an amazing song writer. I’m definitely going to keep an ear out for all of Brett’s music throughout his career. After hearing from a friend that Brett was a native from Paris, it just made him seem that much more amazing. I can’t help myself from thinking that this won’t be his last hit single. I can’t help myself from anticipating his debut album and waiting for him to release new songs.
Brett is very active for now. is going to be performing at the Second Annual Alzheimer’s Foundation of America’s For the Love of George Cocktail Party along with South of Eden and Shannon Brown while also touring around the country for a radio show. He’s going to places like Miami, Orlando, and the famous Grand Ole Opry in Nashville talking about his songs and making the people of Paris proud. I know I’m not the only one when I say good luck Brett and we hope you have a lot of success in your career!
Brett Eldredge’s first single, “Raymond”, was premiered on CMT October 1st. He wrote the song while thinking about his grandmother, who has Alzheimer’s. Because of this first hit he’s been named CMT’s “Next Big Thing.”
While watching the music video, I can remember thinking to myself, “Wow, these are such deep, emotional song lyrics.” This is a great thing for someone so young and him being a “rookie” in the country music business. It shows that he has great potential and he’s an amazing song writer. I’m definitely going to keep an ear out for all of Brett’s music throughout his career. After hearing from a friend that Brett was a native from Paris, it just made him seem that much more amazing. I can’t help myself from thinking that this won’t be his last hit single. I can’t help myself from anticipating his debut album and waiting for him to release new songs.
Brett is very active for now. is going to be performing at the Second Annual Alzheimer’s Foundation of America’s For the Love of George Cocktail Party along with South of Eden and Shannon Brown while also touring around the country for a radio show. He’s going to places like Miami, Orlando, and the famous Grand Ole Opry in Nashville talking about his songs and making the people of Paris proud. I know I’m not the only one when I say good luck Brett and we hope you have a lot of success in your career!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)