Keeping The Magic Alive

by Chris Rytting

All year round, young children take extreme care in decision making due to one man, and one man only: Santa Claus. Fictional or not, Santa Claus directly influences believers' everyday actions, more often for the better. The dilemma that any given elementary school student often faces of whether to subtly trip the confused foreign exchange student hinges delicately on how strong the desire for satisfying presents is.

Because we so adore the idea of Santa Claus, a kind, selfless saint with unlimited resources and a fetish for cookies and milk, it is often hard for us to let go of him when we come of age. Hence, our loving parents strive to keep the secret safe for as long as possible.

It would appear that more often than not, kids discover the true Santa on their own sooner than their parents can sit them down in the living room and break the news gently.

We often hear interesting stories of how the initially depressing reality was first revealed. The most savory tales, which unfortunately are rarest, illustrate young adults somehow getting wind of the truth. The utmost respect of all goes to the parents, who manage somehow to hide the fact that Santa Claus does not exist, even amidst 20 plus years of Christmas seasons and deep conversation addressing Christmas spirit and the true meaning of the holiday.

We also hear of eager young children barging in on the Christmas morning preparations late at night, followed by desperate attempts at covering up by parents.

Though Mr. Claus may be fictional, his spirit and message can benefit all in this season of charity and love.

FBLA financial literacy service projects

By Irasema Del Castillo

The Future Business Leaders of America is a club organization to teach students business and managing skills. The FBLA runs the school snack shop and compete with different school in the area. They have also come up with new ways to serve our communities, starting with the younger members of it.

James Keyes, junior, says "In FBLA we go to elementary schools and teach them about financial literacy. Bankruptcy is a problem here, so we are hoping that if they learn about budgeting at a young age they will be able allocate their money better than they normally would when they grow older."

As a service project, the FBLA goes to local elementaries schools in grades fourth through sixth at Windsor, Northridge, Bonneville, and Orchard to teach the kids wise money habits. The presentations cover earning about how to save and budget. This service project benefits both the students of Timpanogos and the local elementaries.

Junior, Devan Dowl, says “I feel it will inspire them to be financially fit and aware of financial situations.”

McKinnley Barney, president of the FBLA, says "working with the fourth, fifth, and sixth graders at elementary schools across the area is fantastic. They are so smart and love to participate. I think they really learn a lot."

The FBLA also organizes luncheons for the students here at Timpanogos every Wednesday during lunch. During these luncheons a professional in business or finance comes in to teach different topics such as: budging, the differences between banks and credit unions, and many more essential facts about finance.

With the many struggles in the economy, students need to know even more about finance and money, not just how to spend it and get into debt. If you are interested in coming to these luncheons you can talk to any of the business teachers to sign up for the seminar. They will also provide lunch; so go and learn about finance and get fed.

The FBLA are also partnered with Utah Community Credit Union to teach parents how to be financially stable.

The FBLA is doing a great job educating not only our school with money, but our community.

The Greatest Gift

By Aimee Bench

With Christmas around the corner, everyone has one thing on their mind: presents. But how does each family open theirs? There are so many different traditions Timpanogos students have when it comes to Christmas morning.

Most students see what suprises are left from Santa in their stocking first, and then open the other presents. Junior Joe Facer has a fun tradition in his family. They go on a scavenger hunt to find their stockings, which is a fun way to kick off the morning, right?. Seniors Jackie Peck and Alyssa Nilson both open the presents in their family youngest to oldest, one at a time. Jackie loves presents on Christmas because,"You never know what you're going to get!" Getting up extra-early is also common, but waiting for parents to get up can be torture.

Suprises are always nice, but sometimes suprises aren't very exciting. Alyssa said,"One Christmas I got muffin tins and a book I already had." Joe said,"One time I got measuring cups." Although some presents don't excite as much as an iPod would, it's the thought that counts.

Many families have some of the same and very different traditions, especially when it comes down to Christmas. Nothing says Christmas like a good present. Whatever your traditions are, a gift from the heart means the most.

Christmas in the movies

by Megan Laubershimer

The first time the magic of the movies combined with the spirit of the holidays, a feeling of cheer spread through movie-goers and Christmas fanantics alike that would impress even the big man in red. From that time on, no Christmas song, tradition, or tale was safe from the power of the silver screen, and while Christmas movies have come and gone, the top ten Christmas movies of all time stand tall in the spirit of the holidays.

Ten: The Best Christmas Pageant Ever. A story about a woman who inherits a world of chaos when she takes over her Church's Christmas Pageant. With the roudy Herdman kids and one disaster after another, she's determined to make it the best pageant ever.

Nine: Christmas with the Kranks. A light-hearted comedy based on the short novel Skipping Christmas by John Grisham, it's the story of a couple who decide to skip Christmas and go on a cruise, much to the disdain of their fanatic Christmas-loving neighbors.

Eight: Chevy Chase's Christmas Vacation. This roudy holiday romp tells the story of a man who's outrageous family comes to his home for the holidays and the wild mishaps that occur.

Seven: Rudolph, the Red-Nosed Reindeer. Despite being made in 1964, this classic has a place in the hearts of many as the story of an underdog who goes on to save the day as Santa's favorite reindeer.

Six: The Year Without a Santa Claus. Another classic holiday special, in claymation, and it has two of the most memorable characters in any Christmas movie: the Miser Brothers, Heat and Cold.

Five: The Polar Express. Based on the classic children's book, it tells about a boy who finds that while "seeing is believing", sometimes the most important things in life are those we can't see.

Four: White Christmas. A romantic comedy full of music and laughs, this movie is about two army buddies and the escapades they run into as they follow two women to a Vermont lodge for a Christmas show.

Three: The Santa Clause. Tim Allen's portrayal as an ordinary man who accidentaly becomes the new Santa Claus after startling the old one off the roof is a favorite among kids and adults alike.

Two: Dr. Suess' How the Grinch Stole Christmas. Whether it be the older, animated version or Jim Carrey's hilarious new tale, this clever story is about one young girl and one bitter old Grinch's discovery of the true meaning of Christmas.

One: A Christmas Story. This number one classic of holiday spirit is the story of Ralphie, a young boy who only wants a Red Ryder BB gun for Christmas but can't convince his parents, or Santa, to buy one.

So from "you'll shoot your eye out, kid" to "inside a snowflake like the one on your sleeve, there happened a story you must see to believe", these holiday moves bring the spirit of Christmas right into our homes.

Students step in for Santa

By Aaron Lillie

Every Christmas season, the Hallmark service project at Timpanogos High School is Sub for Santa, an annual fundraiser that enables many families to enjoy a Christmas that couldn't otherwise be a reality.

Students donated their money and time to the project during the first two weeks of December. Although the project is mainly organized by PACK, the United Way and student council also helped the school to meet their goal.

In past years, the school has focused on surpassing a specific dollar amount. This winter, a new emphasis has been placed on providing gifts for a certain number of people. The goal this year is to give Christmas presents to 65 children. To achieve this goal, PACK expects to fundraise $7000 from students, parents and local business sponsors.

With the substantial donations from local businesses, just a couple dollars from each student is enough to meet the school's goal. Senior Brigham Facer said, "We are very determined to reach our goal...We need everyone to help in any way possible, such as just bringing spare change lying around. It really does help."

Anybody that saw senior Sterling Randle during the two weeks of fundraising knows that PACK refused to settle for anything less than their goal. Sterling threw himself in front of the the cars leaving the parking lot after school to demand donations.

Sterling highlighted a couple of the other fundraisers that PACK used to reach the school's goal. "We've been selling Candy Grams and hot chocolate to make money. Some of the lunch-time activities include duct-taping Coach Nelson to the wall, and making students do dares (if students meet a certain fundraising goal). Junior Jordan Gunther waxed his legs, and I wore a dress to school."

Modern-day Grinch

By Kaleo Li

Right as you roll out of bed and clench your head because of that Halloween candy hangover, "Jingle Bells" blares from the radio. A groan of realization slowly emits from your mouth because it is Nov. 1, the start of the Christmas holidays.

By the time Christmas actually rolls around, most people are already sick of the repetition and the lack of variety on the radio. After two months of constant "pa-rum-pum-pum-pum", the average student has lost all sympathy for that irritating drummer child.

"I hate the Christmas songs they play year after year," says senior Tejan Rockwood. It is fascinating how the radio DJs can cope with this endless "Winter Wonderland" of songs for two straight months.

Harder to handle is trying to shop during this hectic holiday. The mall parking lot is similar to a battlefield, and Black Friday is basically Armageddon after Thanksgiving, resulting in injuries and death.

Looking for the perfect present also causes unnecessary stress. Senior Malerie Jaramillo says that her least favorite part of Christmas is "shopping for people who are hard to shop for."

Some people believe that this long length of holiday cheer is a ploy by the retailers to make customers spend as much as possible. Men in fat suits parade each corner, mall and department store, trying to suck the money out of any passerby with children. Each commercial is abound with obnoxious models frolicking in fake snow.

Santa himself may cause more disappointment than joy. When innocent children find their heart-wrought letters undelivered, they face the ultimate test of faith. What they believed to be true turns out to be the biggest fable they've heard. Their belief in Santa, who may even represent some sort of celestial being, is crushed, and it is possible that these children will grow up with issues of trust.

With all these unpleasant experiences, it is hard to imagine that people even leave the house. However, one thing keeps them spending: routine. This routine, which lacks almost any Christmas spirit, keeps mindless employees a-decorating and retailers a-selling. On Dec. 26, trees are folded down, santa hats are packed away, and there isn't a trace of St. Nicholas to be seen. Taking lights off the house is a signal of the start of this process and is junior Kat Rangel's least favorite part of Christmas.

When all is said and done, people will probably give a sigh of relief and lament their empty wallets.

Boys' Basketball to Pick Up the Pieces

By Chris Rytting

For the past four years, former Head Coach Clay Anderson and the Timpanogos boys' basketball team have attempted in vain to claim, for the first time ever, a state championship title. Although over the years, the program has taken several region championships but have never progressed far enough in the playoffs to call themselves state champs.

After a 8-12 record last season, and mounting responsibilities in a full-time job at Utah Valley University, Anderson decided to resign as head coach. After an intense search for a new head coach, THS' faculty realized that the best candidate was right under their noses the entire time, and selected Brad Crowther as the new head coach. With Crowther as coach, the team has a clean slate.

Well, not entirely. So far this season, boys' basketball is 0-3. However, Crowther sees the subpar record as an opportunity to take charge of the region. "Hopefully people will overlook us with a losing record," Crowther said in a recent interview. "We're just getting better. We have improved each week, so now we just need to fine-tune things, work hard, and we'll be alright."

While the 0-3 record is less-than-optimal, speculators should realize the fact that the team has one of the toughest schedules out there. "We also have one of the toughest schedules out there," says Crowther.

However daunting teams like Lone Peak and Bingham may seem, a tough schedule doesn't deter the coach's expectations for the season. "As a team we are going to try and make the playoffs and end the season strong with a winning record," states Crowther optimistically.

Wish list

By Camlyn Giddins

Alyssa Cadena, Sophomore

"I don't really care. I just like clothes. I like different types of clothes and figuring out what to wear."

Mrs. Keller, Librarian

"Clothes because I like variety. And a new storm door and it has to be all glass."

Lilipet Uluave, Senior

"A new car and probably a new TV because everyone in my family has one except for me."

Kendra Martin, Junior

"A new cell phone because my A button doesn't work and I'm a texting freak so I have to have it."

Toa Peters, Senior

"A new cell phone."

Aubrey Craft, Senior

"I want Rock Band."

Junior Matos, Junior

"I want world peace throughout the world and more caffeine in our drinks."

RJ Jensen, Junior

"A longer lunch."

Amy Jensen, Sophomore

"I would love some clothes and itunes music."

Corey Wood, Sophomore

"Some board games and sport balls so I can play with other people and such."

Isn't it called Hanukkanzaa?

By Camlyn Giddens

For some reason, the African American Kwanzaa holiday is commonly confused with Hanukkah--which is Jewish. To set the record straight, Hanukkah is way more closely related to Christmas than it is to Kwanzaa. They are completely different and separate things. Kwanzaa is not a religious holiday; it is a cultural one.

Kwanzaa is a type of remembrance of African American heritage. The word Kwanzaa actually means "first fruits" in Swahili. It is celebrated during a period of seven days immediately after Christmas from Dec. 26 through Jan 1. On each day, a candle from the Kinara (candle holder) is lit. The Kinara symbolizes our roots, our ancestors, and where we came from. Each candle stands for a certain word. Umoja (unity) is the first, then Kujichagulia (self-determination),Ujima (collective work and responsibility), Ujamaa (cooperative economics), Nia (purpose), Kuumba (creativity) and Imani (faith).

There are other symbols and set pieces that are used for this ceremony, but how and if they are used is subjective to the family. My father, Kevin Giddins, explained, "There are specific rituals that each family adopts, but it is different. It's based on the family's needs and the family's values."

In fact, many African Americans choose not to go into detail or celebrate it every year because, in actuality, we celebrate our culture everyday. My family doesn't every year, but we enjoy it when we do. My sister Grayson Giddins remembers quite a bit from the last time we had Kwanzaa. "I remember turning on the music, and we'd dance around the living room. I remember creating sequences about the music and making different shapes, and we'd do them over and over again. I remember the candles and how each candle has a meaning. I remember we'd do it at night, so it would be dark and the light would be bright. . . and the food."

My mom, Lita Giddins, wouldn't make just any food. "Cultural food," she said, "like sweet potatoes and corn bread." I asked my mom what her favorite part about Kwanzaa was, and she answered, "I like the principles and what they teach and the chance it gives to celebrate your culture."

My dad gave roughly the same comment. "I like the fact that it teaches children a little more about their culture and that their culture has purpose and substance."

The first fruits of such African American celebrations date back to ancient Egypt and Nubia, but the official Kwanzaa holiday wasn't established until a little later: thousands of years later, actually, in 1966 during the Black Freedom Movement. So although the holiday is young, the tradition of honoring our dark skin is age-old.

Best and worst presents

By Tragen Herrick

Christmas is the happiest season of all. Christmas may be the happiest but it is the slowest time of year too. You have to wait 25 days till you get to rip open all the presents your family, friends and Santa brought to you.

Every Christmas we get some awesome presents. Bryant Call, Sophomore, said, "Once I got a really nice swing set. I played on it all the time when I was little." Dayna Rodriguez, Junior,

said, "The best gift I have ever got was a four wheeler." Senior Jeff Fitzgerald commented, "I got a cool banana chair."

But we also get some pretty lame ones like Brittney Nuttal, Senior, said, "The worst Christmas present I've gotten was notebooks for school." Haden Telford, Sophomore, said, "I got a compass once. It was extremely gay." Junior Melody Chantharath "I have to say this ugly pair of socks."

Here are some ideas to make sure you don't get those lame presents. First, make sure your parents know what you would like to get and make sure you say please. Second, sucking up can't hurt. Tell your parents that you love them often and ask them if there is anything you can do to help around the house, because they notice things like that. Third, make sure you get them a present and let them overhear you saying that you are getting something awesome for them. Fourth, make sure they know that you are doing well in school, not just grades, but things like not missing classes.

I'm not sure where parents get their ideas for their present giving, but most of the time they do a pretty freaking good job. No matter how awesome or how terrible your presents are this Christmas season, just pretend to like it and make sure you thank your parents. Hey, at least they tried.

Twilight review

By Morgan Cortez

Soon after its release on October 5, 2005, Twlight suddenly exploded to the top of the national best-seller lists. The book found its way into the hands of many teenage girls' hands. Just over three years later, that book became a reality.

"Twilight, the movie," stars Robert Pattinson as irresistable vampire Edward Cullen (who you may recognize as Cedric Diggory in Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire) and Kristen Stewart as Bella Swan, who every girl seems to relate with.
   

For the seemingly few who have not read the book, Bella Swan moves to the small town Forks, Washington, to live with her father. On her first day of school, she is instantly attracted to vampire Edward Cullen. On the other hand, he is instantly attracted to her blood. "And so the lion fell in love with the lamb," author Stephanie Meyer writes. Soon after they decide to try to be together, some unexpected visitors decide to crash the party, and it becomes a race between the Cullens and the visitors to keep Bella alive.

Readers of the book will love to see the story in theaters, but be prepared for a little disappointment. Most Twilight fans knew that the movie would not be as great the book, so the experience will depend on the attitude you walk into the theater with. If you go to to the theaters expecting an artsy masterpiece, you'll be disappointed. If you're there just to be entertained, you'll absolutely enjoy it.
   
Many readers wondered how the cast would live up to the high expectations set by the books. Kristen Stewart, acting as Bella, did all she could to show Twilight fans that she can take a very complex character and bring it onto the screen. Unfortunately, for the life of me, I cannot see her as the Bella Swan we know and love. Personally, I love Kristen Stewart, but not as Bella Swan.
   
Robert Pattinson took upon the important role of Edward Cullen. Movie-watchers may recognize him as our favorite Hufflepuff, Cedric Diggory, in Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. How did Pattinson live up to the beloved Edward? Similar to casting Bella, it is very difficult to take such a intricate character and bring them to life. Robert Pattinson did his best, and most of the time, his best was enough. His performance took many girls' breath away, including mine.

Be forewarned that this a a very cheesy movie. If you don't mind the drama, watch it. If not, well, then don't.

On the scale of 1 to 10, with 10 being the best movie ever made and 1 being a total disgrace, I would have to go with a 8. Overall, the movie was great. It stuck closely to the plot of the books. Plus, it was surprisingly funny. However, at times I forgot what I was watching. Director Hardwicke twisted some scenes that did not need twisting. I have read the book many times, but I got lost during the movie, wondering what was supposed to be going on.

If you are looking for a good laugh or a cute chick flick, I definitely recommend this vampire hit.

Oh Sweet Turkey

By Tragen Herrick

The best holiday of the year, Thanksgiving is on our door step. the best time of year because of all the amazing foods we get to devour. According to Jake Dyson, "the best food at Thanksgiving are mashed potatoes and gravy, you can't have Thanksgiving with out it, it just wouldn't be the same."

But Brittney Nuttall says "Turkey is what it's all about." According to most people, turkey is the staple food of thanksgiving so it's a must have. but along with with the good comes the bad. Kodey Thill said, "there is only one bad thing at Thanksgiving, cranberry sauce, because it is disgusting." Food isn't always the favorite thing at Thanksgiving, yes its true.

Austin Snowden said, "Thanksgiving week I help pick up food for the homeless and that is my favorite because it makes me feel like i have helped someone." So this Thanksgiving, have fun, go gain five pounds, but also go do something to help someone else. Everyone go have a super fantastic Thanksgiving.

Fighting the feast

By Aimee Bench    

Turkey, mashed potatoes smothered in butter, and more kinds of pie than one can imagine. It's a wonder anyone maintains their weight during the holidays. There are so many chances to eat but little time to exercise. How do you fight the feast?

    Senior Jessica Church, when asked if she eats a lot during the holidays, said,"Of course! But I can eat a lot without getting fat." If only we could all be this lucky. 

Senior Michelle Teng said, "I eat a ton, but I also do abs every night." 

    There are many unconventional opportunities for exercise during Thanksgiving break, such as shopping on Black Friday.  It's crazy how much running and quick walking it takes to be successul on the biggest shopping day of the year. This is a fun and productive way to shed some calories put on during the Thanksgiving feast. 

Junior Kristin Coker said, "Shopping on Black Friday is the best part of Thanksgiving, it's so crazy!"  Saving money works wonders in enticing shoppers to brave the hostile crowds at the crack of dawn. It's also quite the workout.

    Whatever you do, make sure to enjoy the food because, after all, Thanksgiving only comes once a year. Don't be afraid to feast!

Throroughly Delectable

by Megan Laubershimer

 

Spirited music, quick-footed dances, and of course a thoroughly modern girl light up the surprisingly fun Timpanogos production of Thoroughly Modern Millie. 

Based on the Broadway play, Millie is the story of a small town girl who's dreams of making a splash in high society of the 1920s, and marrying her super rich, though nonexistent boss, lead her to the bright lights of the big apple. 

Once there, she encounters free-spirited girls, a crazy Chinese hotel manager who seems to have a sinister air about her, a naive but charming new best friend, and Jimmy, a somewhat debonair guy who might just fall for the girl who's as modern as they come.  With romance, danger, and even a famous star in disguise, Millie finds exactly what's she's been missing and where she belongs.

A play couldn't be a play without the actors, and though all were worthy of a round of applause, some really proved that Broadway talent existed in the school halls.  As famous singer Muzzy Von Hossmere, Camlyn Giddins filled the theatre with her crystal-clear voice.  Looking stunning, even in a blonde wig and pink dress disguise, she added witty humor and fun to the story.

Alana Smith, as the eccentric Mrs. Meers, brings a whole new dimension to the play with her comical role, powerful voice, and hysterical accents.

Caleb Jenson, as the leading man, showed his stuff with a satirical character, light-hearted acting, and a surprisingly stellar voice.  Whoever said musicals weren't cool has never seen Caleb perform.

As the titled character, Shae Hunsaker's performance as Millie goes beyond excellence.  She has it all: she can sing, dance, and act, and she can do it all without seeming to break a sweat.  With a killer voice and superb acting, Shae could definitely have a future in Broadway. 

When asked what the scariest part of a play was, she responded, "the hardest thing is to step on the stage for the first time each night and put on a great show every time.  But once I sing my first song, the nerves go away."

Of course, even with the story, directors, and actors, without the music, the play couldn't go on.  The orchestra brought a whole new level of delight and spiced up the play with animated, jazzy blues and foot-tapping melodies. 

Every song the orchestra played had the audiences' full attention and they, along with everyone else who put time and sweat into the play, made it thoroughly enchanting.

 

  

Mexican thanksgiving

By Jessica Carrenza and Iresema Del Castillo

People are looking forward to Thanksgiving to enjoy turkey, stuffing, sweet potatoes, green beans, and pumpkin pie. In Hispanic homes however, different preparations are made according to their country of origin.

For example, Peruvians don't usually eat turkey; they make their traditional food which includes papa a la huancaina, a potato type salad; causa, tuna and potato casserole-type dish; and aji de gallina, a rice and chicken dish. 

Mexicans usually tend to go with ham, tamales, or pozole, a soup made with pork and lots of vegetables. “My parents invite my family, and we have a big dinner, and also eat turkey. What I like about this holiday are the games that we play as a family,” says Erica Barragan, first generation Mexican-American. Games are popular evening activities after dinner.

Chileans eat savory empanadas, a baked pot pie with chicken or beef. 

Some Hispanics go out to eat at a restaurant rather than the traditional American Thanksgiving dinner. Kendra Delgado, Peruvian sophomore says, "I went to Idaho with my family, and we ate in a restaurant, and we ate different kinds of food.”

Bolivian Vania Bernal said, "I remember last year, I went to California to see my family, and we have a big dinner but we didn’t eat turkey, we ate chicken; it was really good.” 

Hispanics don't consider Thanksgiving to be a major holiday. (In fact, turkey is usually reserved for Christmas celebrations in many Latin communities). In their home countries, there are many other celebrations that honor specific people and things. American Thanksgiving can seem like "just another day off of school." However, whether it be a day for American football or Latino Soccer and no matter what people eat, where they gather, or what culture they celebrate, their main purpose for that day is to show gratitude for what they have and celebrating the people they are with. 

Review: Quantum of Solace

by Tiffany Monney

 

Friday, Nov. 14, was the premier of the 22nd edition of the James Bond series.  Like all Bond films preceding it, signatures like high-level technology, expensive cars, boat and plane chases, and, of course, alluring women were present. However, the current actor portraying the Mi6 agent, Daniel Craig, has departed from the traditional suave, debonair take on Bond and has given him a more passionate and aggressive nature.

 
Quantum of Solace finds James Bond "so blinded by inconsolable rage" that it no longer matters who he hurts. "When you can't tell your friends from your enemies, it's time to go," states M, the leader of the Mi6 program.

Numbed by the loss of Vesper Lynd, Bond must pursue those responsible for her death without letting his personal vendetta cloud his judgment. He discovers a prominent member of this society to be Dominic Greene, a sinister geologist with the desire to control Bolivia's entire water supply, who reinstates the ruthless dictator, General Medrano, to power in order to accomplish his malicious ends. 

The possibility of possessing the water of an entire country has numerous benefits for both Greene and Medrano. As Greene states, "This is the world's most precious resource; we need to control as much of it as we can."

Not only must Bond discern a means to terminate their plan, but he must also overcome hindrances by the Mi6 because of M's belief of Bond's indifference and loss of discipline.  He travels across the world to diverse places including Bolivia, Haiti and Italy, in order to accomplish his mission.  Enlisting old enemies and new supposed allies, Bond soon learns the truth in the saying "someone that you think that you can trust is just another way to die," as Alicia Keys and Jack White sing in the opening credits. 

The newest edition to the Bond family is one of intensity, pain, adventure and peril, and it will thrill audiences and leave them wanting more.

Giving thanks

By Camlyn Giddens

Sophomore, Dominic Pasqule

"I'm thankful for my friends and my family. My family gives me support and my sister has taught me a lot, and my friends watch my back and make sure I don't do anything dumb."

Junior, Kaitlin Robertson

"I'm thankful for spending time with family and having such a blast with extended family. I'm thankful for everything." 

Junior, Alison Brooks

"Family."

Senior, Jeremy Hall

"Food. Turkey dinner."

Ms. Kelley 

"I'm grateful for my family, teaching at Timpanogos, and my faith."

Mr. Park

"I'm grateful for my family. That's the only thing that matters, right?"

Obama promises

By Morgan Cortez

Every presidential candidate builds his campaign on promises, but President-elect Barack Obama's promises are especially crucial in this era of energy and financial crises.

With our nation in its current state of international dependence, Obama's first actions in office may define his presidency. The economy is in urgent need of repair, and the overseas war in Iraq remains a large source of conflicted interests among citizens. It also remains to be seen how thoroughly he can carry through on his promises of change in education and health care.

One of Obama's major goals is to restore fairness to America's tax system. He wants to give working families a tax cut, which will give families a tax credit of $500 per person, or $1,000 per working family. He says he'll provide tax relief for small businesses by doing away with taxes on things like stock trades and property sales. He'll also fight for foreign trade policies that will support American jobs above foreign ones.

Obama also calls for change in education. He wants to fix the No Child Left Behind by giving more funding to the plan. Obama believes that less time should be spent preparing for a final bubble test and more time spent on helping the students and schools that need it. He also has a plan called the "Zero to Five" plan, which should better prepare children of that age range for kindergarten.

Lastly, Obama wants to end the war in Iraq. By contacting his Secretary of Defense and military commanders, Obama will have our troops brought home and transfer responsibility of the country to Iraqi leaders. Obama believes that Iraqi citizens should take responsibility for their future, not a foreign country's military forces.

It's clear that President-elect Barack Obama has a lot to accomplish as he starts his term early next year. With millions of voters counting on his ability to succeed, the pressure is on Obama to get ready to make good on his promises of change.

The Electoral College

By Chris Rytting

When our nation was founded, and the Constitution of the United States emerged as one of the most pivotal documents in history, the founding fathers made sure to promote, among other ideas, the system known as the Electoral College.

They originally intended for the Electoral College to consist of the highly educated individuals in society, elected in a democratic election by ordinary citizens who share the same ideals and priorities. The system rewards each individual state with a number of electors equal to the total sum of senators and representatives that state has in Washington D.C. already.    

This, from the outside, is a solid idea. However, things change quickly in America, and the system veered off course. Unconsciously, americans and electors alike adopted the ideology that the electors' responsibility is not to make their own, independent decision, but rather to cast their vote respective to which candidate the majority of the state votes for.     

The United States' current Electoral College consists of 538 electors, and holds its vote on December 15th. In the 2008 Presidential Race, held recently on November fourth, it would appear that the Democratic candidate Barack Obama laid waste to Republican John McCain with 349 electoral votes to 163, with 26 still up in the air. Obama claimed pivotal battleground states such as Florida, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Nevada and Colorado to help him sustain a sizeable lead. However, Obama won by a mere six percent in the popular vote. 

The race is still on, contrary to many different forms of media across the nation, who declare Barack Obama as America's 44th commander-in-chief. 

The system is flawed because of the new direction it has taken, and also the lack of representation granted to the minorities in a given state. Since the electors side with whichever candidate the state sides with -be they a democrat, republican, or any other party member- the minority in any given state has absolutely no voice, giving democrats in Utah or republicans in New York a better reason to stay at home on election day and a decreased interest in being politically active.

As stated before, the actual Electoral College election finds itself smack in the middle of December on the fifteenth, and as of now, George W. Bush still presides. If all goes routinely, and the electors of the college vote in the same manner their states did, then Barack Obama will be sworn into office on January 20th of 2009. 

Win Some, Lose Some

By Aimee Bench

 

While the Democrats already hold a majority in both houses of congress, they were aiming for a filibuster-proof super-majority in the senate this past election--60 seats. A filibuster keeps an issue open and active, suspending the vote until all persuasion is complete. 60 votes from the Democrats would stop a Republican filibuster, thus would become another huge asset to the democratic majority. With the liberal presidential elect, this act would spell trouble for any hopeful members of the GOP. 

Though it was close, the Democrats fell short of the magic number 60. They did, however, take over seats where the GOP has held them for decades, such as in New Mexico and North Carolina, and gain a bigger majority than in 2006. Even the senate minority leader Mitch McConnell was in danger. The Kentucky incumbent narrowly edged his opponent, which is one of the few bright spots for Republicans.

In the House of Representatives, the Democrats capitalized on the unusually high 29 Republican departures, gaining a net of about 20 more seats. The Republicans hold one of the smallest number of seats since the Republican Revolution in 1994, where they re-gained the majority after 40 years. The Democrats rode on the coattails of the president-elect, gaining popularity where they normally would not have.

Presidential Elections 2008

By Tiffany Monney

In this season of turmoil, with a plague of hardships facing both the national and global level, the time has come to decide who will run the United States of America and help solve these impending and controversial problems.  Amid this period of adversity, two candidates have arisen and are determined to reform the nation as to best suit the needs of the people.  However, the ideals, methods and promises of John McCain and Barack Obama to reform Wall Street, the war in Iraq, and health care vary immensely.

John McCain was first elected to the House of Representatives in 1982 and there fought for the elimination of improvident government spending, renovations in Washington and the fortifying of the armed forces.  This program amplified his position, and he was elected to the United States Senate after the completion of his second term in the House in 1986.  McCain continued his agenda to purge Washington of the corruption that allowed taxpayer money to be used for special interests.  

Today, McCain continues to remain strong in his conservative Republican view for a higher standard for the United States.  Among the issues currently facing America, he has a definite plan to improve upon what needs improvement and eliminate what is unnecessary regarding some of the most pressing issues of today.

McCain's economic plan includes creating greater flexibility in the workplace, providing immediate relief for families who have suffered from the economic crisis, continuing to reform the government, utilizing cheaper energy, lowering trade barriers, supporting the small businesses, and creating just and simple taxes, allowing for more money to circulate and boost the economy.

McCain also advocates the importance of success in Iraq. However, he does not wish American soldiers to remain there any longer than absolutely necessary.  By continuing the effective counterinsurgency strategy,  assisting the Iraq government and improving their economy, and always remaining honest with the people of the United States, the motives for entering Iraq will have been accomplished.

Barack Obama, McCain's Democratic opponent, began his political career by serving three terms in the Illinois Senate, from 1997-2004.  In March of 2004, Obama became a United States Senator and was best known for his promotion of the accountability of the American people regarding the use of federal funds, and in the 110th Congress, he assisted in the making of laws inhibiting electoral fraud and lobbying, the negative effects of global climate change, and the care for United States veterans.

Currently, Obama's program for the economic crisis encompasses the restoration of fairness to taxes, reforming the national regulation on finances and corporate governance, protecting the individual consumer, and also the creation of just and intelligent policies with regards to global trading.

Obama's plan for the war in Iraq includes winning and defeating Al Qaeda and terrorist threats against the United States, creating a partnership with Pakistan, providing greater security for the Homeland, and finally pursuing a renovation of the intelligence methods used by the United States.

Both candidates have valid arguments for their plans to improve the country; however, only one will win the race determining the next Commander in Chief, or President, of the United States.

Smash hit the Office returns

By: Tragen Herrick

The Office is Back for 2008 comeback  

The Office is coming again. The half-hour "mockumentary" is sweeping the nation, causing more laughs than most other comedies. This show has stolen every Thursday night from more than 20 million people in the nation. It has received 21 awards, like the Golden Globe Award and the Emmy Award from 2006-2008. 

When asked who their favorite character is, there is a three-way tie between the socially awkward Michael Scott played by Steve Carell, the all too serious Dwight Schrute played by Rainn Willson, and comedy buff Jim Halpert played by John Krasinski. According to freshman Austin Merrel, "Jim Halpert is the best because he is really funny and can act like a vampire." 

Most people find it difficult to choose a favorite character because each individual person makes show what it is. You can't take anyone out and have it be the same show. This is why we are going to miss Toby so much.

It may be hard to pick a favorite character but it is equally if not more difficult to pick a favorite quote. "There are so many different hilarious quotes in The Office," said senior Jeff Fitzgerald, "but my favorite quote is when Michael says, 'That's what she said' because he always says it at awesome times, and he uses it most every episode, and it just makes the show awkward, and that makes it more funny."  

The people I talked to did not all agree on a favorite episode, which is understandable because each one is hilarious, but  the one that came up a lot was "Business School". This was where Meredith was bitten by a bat and many other strange things happened, like Jim becoming a vampire.

Season five is going to top them all with more laughs then ever. Episodes are on Thursdays,  7 p.m. MT. According to Wikipedia, The Office is one of the top sit-com TV shows in the country. TV.Com gave the show a rating of 9.1 and it has a popularity rating of 41 of 17,691 programs.  Junior Dayna Rodriguez watches The Office "because I laugh my butt off, and it makes me happy in times of sorrow."  

People that do not watch this amazing show should find someone that has the first four seasons on DVD and get caught up.

gamers play with evolution

By Colby Johnson

Evolution is an extremely long and complicated process in reality, but in the video game Spore, it can be completed in a matter of hours.

Starting as an amoeba, gamers decide if they want their creation to be an omnivore, an herbivore or a carnivore. Working from there, your creature has to eat its way through evolution until it grows a brain. From there on, your creature must continue eating and growing its brain, and it eventually becomes smart enough to start a tribe. In the tribal stage, you must expand your tribe while either defending or making friends with the other tribes. After some time, your tribe decides to start a city.

When you decide what they want their cities to look like, they find out that you are starting to use vehicles instead of creatures. Along with that, you also find out that your creature is the dominant species on the planet, so starting with one city, you take over all of the other cities on the planet. Once that task is complete, the species decides that the planet is not enough, so it decides to build a spaceship, and you move onto other planets, becoming either diplomats or bloodthirsty killers. This game was designed so that gamers would have a completely different experience each time they play the game.

Each stage has its own objectives, but the first couple stages and the last one are the best since they allow gamers to control their creature themselves, unlike the other stages, where they have you control many creatures or vehicles at once. Other cons for this game: the stages are repetitive, the earlier stages are very short, each type of creature has a limited amount of "parts" that gamers can choose from, and when gamers build their vehicles or buildings, the parts are awkward and difficult to place. In conclusion, this is a game for people who want to let their imaginations go wild.

Fiestas en los colegios: Diversión en las fiestas

By Jessica Carrenza

Cada país tiene diferentes formas o maneras  de hacer fiestas en los colegios para los estudiantes, y también en cada país las fiestas tienen diferentes nombres como: tonos, reuniones, parties juergas y otros más. Las fiestas en los colegios son las más raras y divertidas. Cada colegio tiene diferentes costumbres y formas de realizar una fiesta. como en Sur America las fiestas realizadas en los colegios son muy distintas a las de aqui. Por ejemplo al terminal el año escolar aqui en los estados unidos tenemos "Prom" que es un baile formal donde el chico tiene que invitar a su pareja y tener una cita y por lo general van los del ultimo año pero todos estan invitados a ir. En cambio en algunos países la fiestas al final del año escolar se llama "la fiesta de promocion", esta es una fiesta elegante y es para los alumnos del ultimo año y aqui no tienes que invitar a nadie, porque alla todos los del ultimo grado se conocen, ya que alla es todo por salones y entre el comite del colegio lo organizan.

Claudia Delgado dijo, "Yo no llegue a ir a una fiesta de promoción cuando andaba en mi país pero me gustaria ir a la ultima fiesta de la escuela, para ver y conocer diferentes costumbres."

Gaby Pirir dijo, "Este año me gustaría ir a Prom ya que es mi ultimo año y me gustaría poder ganar nuevas experiencias."

Como sabemos cada país tiene su propia cultura y costumbres. una de las costumbre que me gusta es que aqui en las fiestas no solo los chicos invitan si no que las chicas tambien tienen la oportunidad de poder invitar a los chicos que quieran. hablando de otras fiestas no formales, aqui hay lo que se le llama el "stomp" que es una de las muchas fiestas que se dan en la escuela. usualmente aqui las fiestas comiensan a las 8:30pm y terminan a las 12:00am, lo que es muy diferentes a otros países, ya que en otros países las fiestas de la escuela comienzan a las 9:00pm y terminan a las 2:00am.

Vania Bernal dijo, "Es bien divertido poder ir a diferentes fiestas en la escuela, yo en california fui a una y tuve quqe invitar a un chico, y fue una experiencia bien divertida al final. Me gustaría que las fiestas pudieran terminar un poco mas tarde como en bolivia."

Kendra Delgado dijo, "Este es mi primer año en Timpanogos High School y al parecer las fiestas se ven muy divertidas. Yo creo que ya debo empezar a ir a algunas."

Hay personas que capas no hallan podido ir a ninguna de estas fiestas o como otras que han podido ir a todas, la cosa es que aún tienen tiempo para ir a cualquier fiesta de la escuela, porque sabemos que  fiestas son fiestas y lo importante es divertirse y ganar nuevas experiencias. Ya que al que le guste bailar y divertirse no debería perderse ninguna fiesta en el colegio, porque que más diversión que pasar un momento agradable en compañia de tus amigas y amigos de la escuela.

CAR TROUBLE

by Emily Knorr

  

On top of homework, jobs and social obligations, sprinting to keep up with gas prices are leaving THS students out of breath. Students at THS are not happy with gas prices. On top of the many fees and liabilities of high school, those who have cars and need to drive places have an extra heavy financial burden placed on their shoulders. 

While grudginly getting out of her car to fill up at a gas station, Heather Friden said, "I hate going to the gas station, I makes me so depressed." Not only does it make students sad to use so much of their budgets for means of transportation, but it also stresses them out. Not only does gas get more expensive, but food and clothes has been getting more expensive as well. Parker Sorenson said, "Gas prices are really frustrating mainly because gas is really expensive. When gas prices go up it effects our entire economy. It effects food prices, and pretty much everything else."

However, many students at THS are making the best of the situation. A fellow student, Olivia Tolman makes the most of her situation. “I hate how gas is so expensive because I have to pay for my own gas, so instead of paying for gas, I walk to and from school most of the time. Not only is walking saving gas, but it gives me exercise and keeps me in shape for my awesome dance moves.”

Although gas prices are skyscraper-high, there is something THS students can do about it. If you have a car, don't take several small trips in one day. Schedule a time for 'errands' where you can do what you need to do for that day or week. Carpool when you can, walk, or ride your bike. If you don't have a car or license yet, don't ask your parents or friends for rides if you can walk there. There are also alternative fuel options such as CNG vehicles, or hybrids. 

Saving gas and not splurging at the pump does make you feel better. Wouldn't you rather spend that money on something else?

Teacher Secrets: Mr. Larson

By Sairah Gold

Who says band geeks aren't cool? Mr. Michael Larson proves that they can turn out to be pretty awesome. If you've ever had him in a class, you'd know that Mr. Larson is extremely comical and has a fantastic teaching style. Who would've thought that for the better part of his life, he was a band geek? Here's how it happened.

"I was registering for junior high, deciding what classes to take, and I just randomly decided to take band. Which was weird because none of my family had ever been in band. So I go into the band class and on the first day the teacher was asking kids what instrument they wanted to play and checking to make sure that they would be fit to play that instrument. So he got to me and asked me what instrument I wanted to play, and I really had no idea. But when I was a kid, there was this show on called "Silver Spoons", and the only things I remember from it is that the dad was really, really rich, he was a "cool dad", and he played the trombone. So that's the first thing I thought of, and so I decided to play trombone. I thought if I played it, I could be cool like the dad."

When asked if he turned out to be cool, he replied, "No. Unfortunately trombone wasn't actually a cool instrument. But I got really involved with it, and I was a total band geek. My friends were all in band, and I was actually in the band presidency. I was the secretary, because it was a traditional thing for the trombones to be the secretary of the band. We actually had it going for five years that a trombone player was the secretary. One of my really good friends, who was also a trombone player, ran against me and I was like, 'Why are you running against me?' and he said 'We gotta have a trombone player as the secretary." I told him, "Yeah, but if you don't run, I automatically get it.' But I won anyway."

Mr. Larson doesn't even play anymore. According to him it's been years since he's played, but he said he would do it if someone paid him to be in a talent show or something. He played right after high school in the pit orchestra for one of the SCERA summer shows, but after that, not really a lot. Even so, it just goes to show that even band geeks can be cool.

Día de brujas...hallowen

Jessica Carrenza

Hallowen, día de brujas, día de los muertos, día de la canción criolla and etc; se celebran el 31 de octubre alrededor del mundo pero todos sabemos que el día más conocido y celebrado es el de hallowen, que tuvo origen en Estados Unidos, ya que un 31 de octubre murieron quemadas muchas brujas ( personas que adivinaban y te leian las cartas) en el pueblo de salem. En otros países este día es diferente porque algunos celebran otras cosas de acuerdo al lugar. Por ejemplo en mexico el dia de hallowen alla es el día de los muertos. En ese día todas las personas van a visitar a sus muertos y le llevan regalos y flores. También en ese día venden el conocido “ pan de muerto” que es un pan que generalmente se vende durante esa epoca. En otros países en sur ámerica es diferente. En peru se celebra “hallowen” y el “día de la canción criolla”, pero generalmente las personas mayores celebran el día de la canción criolla acudiendo a peñas, que es un lugar donde tocan solo canciones peruanas y se ponen a bailar. Algunos estudiantes de timpanogos nos cuentan de que se van a disfrazar este año y tambien que opinan de hallowen. 

Erika barragan dice:

“ Este año estaba pensando en dizfrazarme de Cindy Lauper, porque me gustan su estilo y canciones.Si tuviera que elegir unas de mis experiecias más divertidas seria, cualquier día de hallowen, porque siempre ese día es bien divertido ya que salgo con mis amigos a pedir dulces y me puedo disfrazar de lo que quiera.”

Junior mattos dice:

El año pasado fui a pedir caramelos con mis amigos, y fue muy divertido porque agarramos muchos dulces y tambien nos tomamos muchas fotos.” 

Sabemos que hallowen es una celebración muy grande, y al igual que otros países Estados Unidos, su país de origen lo celebra. Al igual que otros temas, halloween en un tema que tiene mucha controversia ya que hay personas que no estan de acuerdo con esta fecha, porque dicen que no esta bien celebrarla, pero también hay personas que si estan de acuerdo y que dicen que es un dia my divertido para celebrar. como sabemos todos como personas tenemos diferentes formas de pensar hacerca de halloween y otras cosas.

Esthela Chavez dice:

“ Yo no celebro halloween por eso no me voy a disfrazar ya que hallowen no es una de las cosas que me fasina pero no puedo negar que es bien divertido ir a la escuela y  ver a todos con diferentes disfrazes en especial a los maestros.”

Por lo general los adolescentes y niños celebran hallowen, llendo a pedir caramelos a las casas con sus disfrazes o tambien hacen fiestas donde hay concursos de los mejores disfrazes. No se si en otros países te pase esto pero en peru los que se disfrazan son los niños mas pequeños, porque no es una fiesta tan grande como en estados unidos. Yo recuerdo de que una vez me disfraze cuando tenia catorce años y fui a pedir caramelos con algunas amigas de mi misma edad y tocamos la puerta de una señora, la señora salio y  me dijo: ¿que edad tines tu? Y yo le dije catorce y ya voy para los quince años y me dice ¿catorce años? , ya debes tener novio y andas pidiendo caramelos. Es que hallowen no es una tradición en sur america pero es algo divertido de imitar.Como vemos a muchas personas les gusta halloween y a las que no creen que es algo divertido ya que no es algo que se celebre en un solo lugar, si no que se celebra en diferrente países no importa las costumbres ni tradiciones. Aqui en todas las escuelas no importa en que  grado estes ,hasta en las universidades puedes ir con tu disfraz. Es que también los maestros se disfrazan. Por la noche muchas personas en especial los chiquitos salen a pedir caramelos y en los colegios hacen fiestas de hallowen. Este dia se convierte en uno de los dias mas divertidos para muchas personas , ya que es el unico dia en que tu puedes disfrazarte de lo que quieras ser en esa noche y lo más interesante es que puedes salir a las calles asi sin que nadie te vea raro.

Skills USA

By Amy Stott

Watching MTV and jumping on the beds was a regular routine for the six officers of Skills USA during their three day stay at Park City. Even though they had meetings with kids from all over Utah, they still had time to explore and check out what Park City has to offer.

The advisor that attended was Ms. Connie, who made the trip quite interesting. She was trying to create values and manners that all of the officers could use in the business world, all while she was making Sterling Randle an awesome hat. Senior Megan Wright said "I thought it was a great opportunity to learn how to be a better leader and how to conduct yourself in a meeting."

There was quite a bit of free time, so the officers toured Park City. While walking to Albertsons, a terrible accident happened right in front of them. A motorcycle lost control and the boy on the bike was lying in the middle of the road, not moving. Sterling told Amy Stott to call 911. He said "It was weird calling 911 because you see it on TV, but it was weird to see it in real life."

As intense as that accident was, it got even more intense during the scavenger hunt. There were around 300 kids running around the hotel. They had to work with kids from other schools, and things got very competitive. Senior Jason Messenger said, "I had a lot of fun at the scavenger hunt."

The officers were able to learn a lot during that weekend. They learned about medical assistance, what kids from other schools are like, table etiquette, and how to make hats out of yarn. It looks as though the trip was a success. Sterling said, "I have to show other people that I got these skills."

Skills USA is definitely the club for those who want to be successful and to learn more. It is all about the people of America working together to make sure there is a skilled workforce. The Skills USA motto is "Preparing for leadership in the World of Work."

Pride of The Pack

Reported By Amy Stott

Timpanogos High School has some pretty talented kids, and we want to recognize every one of them. School principal Mr. Murphy says, "We’re just creating a culture where students' talents and abilities are recognized, whether they're individual or team accomplishments. A lot of the time, if we don’t focus on great things and great individuals, they often go unnoticed or unrecognized. We truly feel that we have the best students and faculty at Timpanogos High School."

The girls' soccer team is full of some very talented and intelligent girls. They are very athletic and desire to do well academically. At the championship game, they tied for first place. Coach Lewis and Coach Barth are doing an excellent job leading the girls to an amazing season.

Seniors Kaleo Li and Trevor Giles are both National Merit semifinalists. They both received outstanding scores on the PSAT. Another person who did a fantastic job on the PSAT is senior Collin Smith. He is a National Merit commended student.

Senior Brooke Hodson took region for girls' cross country, her second time as region champion. Her time this year was an astonishing 18 minutes and 56 seconds in the 5K race. Senior Matthew Liddle took region for boys' cross country, finishing the 5k race in 16 minutes and 12 seconds. Coach Benson says, "It's been really exciting to see the how the cross country team can succeed."

Sophomore Lauren Folau is fighting against tobacco with her Polynesian Anti-Tobacco group. Tobacco companies focus on the youth of minorities, and she protests against it. Why is she so involved? "I do it to reach out to my peers," says Lauren, who is determined to make a difference.

Where would we be without the creator of the T-wolf TV intro to Pride of The Pack? Senior Mike Misbach is in Mr. Collette’s 3D animation class and is using his mind-blowing skills to serve our school. He said that it took him a total of around six hours to complete the intro.

Senior Courtney Brown has somehow managed the amazing feat of keeping up a 4.0 GPA, as well as performing as an outstanding athlete. This season she took academic all-state for girls' volleyball. When I asked Courtney how she does it, she flashed a brilliant smile and said, "My parents influence me positively."

Senior Jason Messenger is using his art abilities to take a stand against reckless driving. His work is displayed in the Highway Patrol's  2009 calender. Mr. Mills, the school's art teacher, says "Jason is an all around hard-working student. He's using our art computers to design a T-shirt for the National Honors Society, and he often comes in after school to work on projects as well."

Financial Crisis on Wall Street

By Chris Rytting   

Few people, especially high school students, know much about the current sub-prime mortgage crisis. Although the crisis as a whole goes deeper than perhaps anyone comprehends, the basics are relatively easy to understand. 

A sub-prime mortgage is a mortgage to a less than ideal client. Deregulation led to lower credit standards, so banks gave mortgages to very risky clients in the interest of profit. The rapidly improving housing market gave banks the idea to give out sub-prime mortgages en masse. While borrowers attempted to make their house payments, the houses would continue to rack up value. 

The banks depended on borrowers to either pay back the mortgage completely, or even better: The borrowers would have to default.

To explain what happened, let's consider a hypothetical example. A borrower takes out a 100 thousand dollar mortgage. Over the course of three years, the borrower would pay 30 thousand dollars towards the mortgage. If the borrower then defaults, the bank would then have the 30 thousand dollars that the borrower paid and also the house, which has become worth 200 thousand dollars because of rapidly increasing home values instead of the 100 thousand dollars it had been a year ago. When the banks sold the houses, they would have made 130 thousand dollars, making it well worth their time.

But if the housing market starts to decline, then the bank forecloses, and instead of the house doubling in price, it would decrease by half and the 30 thousand dollars combined with the 50 thousand that the house was now worth would add up to 80 thousand dollars, 20 thousand less than the 100 thousand that the banks invested originally.

Now back to reality. As a result of the housing market slump, foreclosure on properties went up to 1.3 million in 2007, 79 percent higher than 2006. The banks who lent money to these high risk customers have reported losses of approximately 435 billion dollars as of July 17 this year. 

Because of these events, the federal government has passed a plan that calls for 700 billion dollars of national funds to aid the recuperation of banks. "The private market has screwed itself up," said Democratic Representative Barney Frank (Massachusetts), "and they need the government to come help them unscrew it." Most citizens find it unjust to fund greedy business practices so willingly. 

    Already sour attitudes towards the bailout have since worsened because of the lack of results of the bailout and the effect it has had on main street, namely valuable tax funds supporting this gimp of a plan.

The scariest aspect of the financial crisis and this bailout is the very real possibility of foreign nations ceasing to buy up the United States' national debt, which now sums up to approximately 10 trillion dollars. 

Unfortunately, the bailout has so far proved to be, for the most part, a poor decision as the Dow Jones Industrial Average has sunken far below 10 thousand points for the first time in four years and the decline rate has been faster than ever. On the other hand, the stocks have recently improved at a relatively decent rate. Said democratic Senator Chris Dodd (Connecticut), "This proposal is stunning and unprecedented in its scope and lack of detail, I might add. It would allow the secretary of the Treasury to intervene in our economy by purchasing at least $700 billion of toxic assets. It would allow the secretary to hold onto those assets for years and to pay millions of dollars to hand-picked firms to manage those assets. It would do nothing, in my view, to help a single family save a home, at least not up front."

But most people are asking, how close will this hit to home? Uncomfortably close, in fact. Just a few minutes' drive from THS, The Music School has closed down because of this financial crisis. Because of inability to cover costs solely with revenue, The Music School has long depended on financial benefactors headquartered in Salt Lake City. However, the circumstances have forced the financial companies that The Music School has long relied upon to cease funding.

The nation's financial status is very unstable, and no one knows how far down this crisis will drag us as a nation. It remains to be seen how many institutions will be forced to close, or how many people will have to default. At least one of us is optimistic about the crisis. In the words of President George W. Bush, "We can solve this crisis, and we will."    

Trashin' Fashion

by Tragen Herrick

Fashion really isn't all that it's cracked up to be. Think about it: How you dress does not effect the way you think, the way you communicate, or the way you learn. All it does is let people around you know about your superficial social standing; it shows how much you care about what other people think. If you want to wear pajama pants and a plain white t-shirt to school, so what? People shouldn't judge you for it.

To put things in perspective, one day I was getting ready for school. I saw some shorts a liked and a shirt I liked, so I put them on. My mom flipped. "You can't wear yellow plaid shorts with an orange and white striped shirt!" she said. "It doesn't match." What's the big deal? People will think you're an idiot for wearing clothes that don't match. Is that how things should be? They're just clothes. Clothes exist to cover your body; they shouldn't determine your social status or make people think of you as different.

For example: If I'm walking down the hall and I see two people who are dressed differently and I don't know either of them in the slightest, is there a reason I should choose to talk to the one wearing cargo shorts, Etnies, and a shirt from American Eagle instead of the kid in a stained sweater and ratty jeans? No, there is no reason. The "stylish" kid could turn out to have a rotten personality while the one wearing hand-me-downs might be a really nice guy.

So, in conclusion, what you wear really isn't that big of a deal. Don't worry about impressing other people with your wardrobe and don't worry about theirs, either. Just be the best that you can be to everyone, no matter what they wear.

Sairah's Three Cents

Fashion is a huge part of the teen world. What we wear defines us and gives us a way to express our personalities without having to say anything at all. I don't see why most guys don't care about what they wear. 

Wearing something that doesn't match makes you look like you really don't know what's going on; as if you're too oblivious to know what's going on, much less care. And if someone doesn't care enough about themselves to look decent, they probably don't care about much else.

Personally, I don't want to talk to someone who doesn't give a flying rat's hind end about anything.

We use fashion to communicate. What we wear could say, "Hey there, good lookin'!" or, "I rolled out of bed with five minutes to get to school, and I'm in a bad mood", or even "I feel crazy today, let's party!". So many things can be said with a single outfit.

That being said, the clothes don't even have to be name brand. As long as someone looks like they care about themselves, then they're good to go.