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News............................................ 1, 2, 3Sports...................................................4Op/Ed...............................................5, 6Feature.........................................6, 7, 8

The Wolverine Scoop

Volume 21 Issue 3 Dec. 17, 2015

Homelessness in Idahoby Kaylee Nye

The Point In Time (PIT) Count Report breaks house-holds into two categories: All Adult Households and Households with Children. All Adult Households consist of single individuals or households of adult members only. This includes married couples and households where all members are age 18 year or older. Households with Children are all households that have at least one minor child. This includes households of only children, such as unaccompanied youth and adolescent parents and their children All Adult Households continue to rep-resent the majority of the homeless population in Ida-ho. The count of persons in both Households of All Adults and Households with Children increased from 2013 by 15% and 22% respectively. Within both All Adult Households and Households with Children, the majority of persons are in emergency shelter or a transitional housing program rather than on the streets or in places not meant for habitation.

Opening Doors has set a goal of ending homelessness for families, youth, and children by 2020. In response to this goal, the PIT Count places an emphasis on identifying households with children. While the PIT Count is primarily a count of persons, a count of the actual household units is also conducted. Knowing the number of families, not just how many people are in families, is vital in meeting the goals set by Opening Doors. In 2014 there were 270 Households with Children with a total of 876 persons including six single child households. Compared to 2013, this is a 22% increase in the number of persons in House-holds with Children and a 17% increase in the num-ber of households.

After several years of a decline, not only did the to-tal number of persons in Households with Children increase but the number of unsheltered persons in Households with Children increased substantially from 2013. In 2013 only 10% of all homeless per-sons in Households with Children were unsheltered on the night of the PIT, while in 2014 that rose to 29%. In 2014 All Adult households accounted for 58% of the total homeless population. Within the All Adult Household category, 31% were sleeping in an unsheltered situation on the night of the count. This is a slight increase from prior years.

A Chronically Homeless Person is defined as an un-accompanied homeless individual with a disabling condition, or a family with at least one adult member who has a disabling condition, who has either been continuously homeless for a year or more, OR has had at least four episodes of homelessness in the past three years. Additionally, to be counted they must have been sleeping in a place not meant for human habitation (e.g. living on the streets) and/or in emer-gency shelter. 12% of Idaho’s homeless were iden-tified as chronically homeless in 2014, which is a slight decrease from the 15% from 2013.

Within the Chronically Homeless population itself, the percentage of chronically homeless families has increased from 2013. This may indicate that the num-ber of chronically homeless individuals is reducing at a faster rate than chronically homeless families.

(Source:http://www.idahohousing.com/Portals/0/Media/grant%20programs/2014%20State%20of%20Idaho%20Point-in-Time%20Count%20Re-port%20Final-042314.pdf)

The Hunt for a Hundredby Madison MacDonald

The third annual “Hunt for a Hundred” is coming up fast! The “Hunt” is a tech-based scavenger hunt sponsored by the Science Club on Saturday, Jan. 9, 2016, at 6:30 p.m. at WHS. If you are good at solving puzzles, riddles, etc., this is probably the easiest way to make $100. The competition may be a whole year away, but sign-ups end the last day of final’s week! The cost is only $15 per person, which includes a complimentary t-shirt. Some may think that sounds on the pricier side, but stop and think about it. Popcorn and a movie would cost more than the “ Hunt” does, and you get a high school experience that you’ll never forget. Science Club members will be at a table in the foyer before school and during lunch to accept your registration and payments, so sign up your team (of 2-4 individ-uals) today.

More Science Club news-Are you in need of a unique Christmas gift? Look no further because the Science Club is selling local, all-natural honey for only $10.00. Contact Mrs. Over-gaard if you are interested. There is a limited supply, so buy early!

Studying tipsby Anaya Hill

With final exams in full swing, students should have some study-ing tips down by now. However, everyone is different. Different methods work for different people; the following are only suggestions on improving upon your current studying techniques.*It is best to review the material right after class when it’s still fresh in your memory.*Don’t try to do all of your studying the night before the test. Instead, space out your studying, review class materials at least several times a week, focusing on one topic at a time.*Have all of your study material in front of you.*Find a comfortable and quiet place to study with good lighting and few distractions (try avoiding your own bed; it is very tempting to just lie down and take a nap).*Start by studying the most important information.*Learn the general concepts first; don’t worry about learning the details until you have learned the main ideas.*Take notes and write down a summary of the important ideas as you read through your study material.*Take short breaks frequently. Your memory retains the information that you study at the beginning and the end better than what you study in the middle.*Make sure that you understand the material well; don’t just read through the material and try to memorize everything.*If you choose to study in a group, only study with others who are serious about the test.*Test yourself or have someone test you on the material to find out what your weak and strong areas are.*Listening to relaxing music such as classical or jazz on a low volume can relieve some of the boredom of studying.*Don’t study later than the time you usually go to sleep; you may fall asleep or be tempted to go to sleep. Instead, try studying in the afternoon or early evening.

(Source: http://www.testtakingtips.com/study/)

Looking aheadby Kyle Ferren

Dec 18: End of second quarter & end of first semesterDec 21- Jan 3: Christmas breakJan 4: Second semester startsJan 4: FAFSA financial aid night (7 pm)Jan 9: FAFSA walk-in work shop (11am-1:30 pm)Jan 13: FAFSA walk-in work shop (6-7:30 pm)Jan 18: Martin Luther King Jr. day NO SCHOOLJan 27: College and Career Fair (grades 9-12)

Robotics sponsors fairby Hope Fuller

The Weiser High School Robotics team sponsored a robotics competition on campus Nov. 24. Eighteen Idaho teams and one team from Washington, repre-senting six different schools, participated. According to Robotics teacher Mr. Lundberg, “It was an amaz-ing competition that went really smoothly.” Brenden Hubele, Nathan Ueltzen, and Nathan Rasmussen won the tournament. The Design Category went to Colton Burr, Devin Pohl, and Kale Poyner.

Refugees in Idahoby Melanie Girvin

As many know, continued recent ISIS attacks have forced count-less people from Middle Eastern countries from their homes in order to avoid violence, perse-cution, and war. The two main refugee parties are Muslims and Syrians, from mainly Syria, but other common places are Iraq and Afghanistan. As of 2012, there were about 4000 refugees in Idaho; currently, there are about 11,000, mostly in Twin Falls and Boise. Many Idahoans are unwelcoming toward them. Many wish them gone, and most fear them. Governor Butch Otter said, “I will use any legal means available to protect the citizens I serve.” He sent a letter to Presi-dent Obama commanding him to call off the stream of refugees into Idaho. However, Obama refused, so Otter cannot force them out but is going to continue to try.

(Source: http://www.spokesman.com/blogs/boi-se/2015/nov/16/otter-calls-halt-us-refugee-resettle-ment-program-security-review/)

Design winners

Tournament winners

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News Briefs:

TheWolverine Scoop staff would like to thank the Gear Up Program and the Weiser Education Foundation for their support in publishing the Scoop this year! We absolutely could not survive without you!

NEWSWorld newsby Nina Kommer

Child Labor

Hot cocoa is more popular than never before. Every day plenty of people drink it during their day. However, how many people realize that others work hard for our daily enjoyment? Every third child in West Africa works on a cocoa plantation for less than the minimum wage. Child trafficking and slavery are a daily occurrence. We have to ask ourselves the question, “Is a cup of hot cocoa under these conditions really worth it, or can we enjoy on the suffering of others?”

(Source: http://orf.at/stories/2312220/2312221/)

FFA raises fundsby Katie Davis

Happy holidays from the Weiser FFA chapter! We have a few things going on. Horticulture and Ag II classes picked sage brush to replant burn out areas Dec. 8th. FFA members will also be selling tickets for half of a pig. There will be two winners, and all of the money raised will go to the FFA chapter. The winning tickets will be drawn at the last girls’ basketball home game. We also recently held our annual fruit fundraiser.

Scholarships availableby Roy Arana

You can pick up the following scholarships in Miss Peterson’s office. Also, many of them have websites on which you may print the applications or apply online. Elks Student of the Month, Due anytime through March. There is a fill-in application online at http://www.weiser-schools.org/scholarships-and-counselors.html. Filling it out once will make you eligible for all of the months.Sussle Company--Give scholarship every month. For seniors--you must be a U.S. citizen and be able to contribute knowledge about your interests. Apply at http://sussle.org/scholarships.Alert Magazine Scholarship, No Due Date. For seniors, 2.5 GPA or higher, must write a 600-1000 word essay about a personal encounter that you or someone you know has had problems with drug or alcohol abuse. Apply at www.alertmagazine.org.Questbridge National College Match Program, Due Date: Varies with different colleges. This program is for high-achieving low-income seniors. Various colleges are included. For more information see www.questbridge.org.Writers of the Future Contest, Due Date: Continual. For students interested in becoming a writer. Find contest rules at http://www.writersofthefuture.com/contest-rules.Solution Reach Scholarship, Due Date: Dec. 18, 2015. Student must have a minimum GPA of 3.2 to apply. Apply at: http://www.solutionreach.com/solutionreach-scholar-ship/solutionreach-communication-technology-scholarship.Young Entrepreneur Foundation Awards, Due Date: Dec. 18, 2015. For graduating seniors who own and operate his/her own small business. Apply online at www.NFIB.com/YEA.CrossLites Scholarship, Due Date: Dec. 31, 2015. In-volves writing a reflective essay. Apply at: https://www.studentscholarships.org/scholarship/12561/crosslites_scholarship_scholarship.Php.GE-Reagan Foundation Scholarship, Due Date: Jan. 7, 2016. For graduating seniors who exhibit leadership, drive, integrity, and citizenship. Apply online at www.reaganfoundation.org/scholarships or http://facebook.com/GEReaganScholar-ships.Elks Legacy Scholarship, Due Date: Jan. 29, 2016 at 12:00 noon. This scholarship is for high school seniors who are children or grandchildren of an Elks Lodge member. Apply at http://www.elks.org/enf/scholars/legacy/rules.cfm.10 Words or Less Scholarship, Due Date: Jan. 29, 2016. You can apply at https://www.studentscholarships.org/easy.php.Idaho School Boards Association Scholarship, Due Date: Feb. 5, 2016. To apply, the student must be a child or grandchild of an Idaho public school trustee or a charter school governing board member, past or present. Apply at http://idsba.org/node/88.George Hansen Scholarship for Geological Sciences, Due Date: Feb. 15, 2016. This scholarship is for a student attending BYU studying Geological Sciences. Apply at http://www.geology.byu.edu/Home/news/george-han-sen-scholarship.Idaho Governors Cup Scholarship, Due Date: Feb. 15, 2016. This scholarship is for a graduating senior with a 2.8 cumulative GPA or higher with a commitment to public service. To apply, go to https://boardofed.idaho.gov/schol-arship/gov_cup.asp.Idaho Power Company Academic Excellence Scholar-ships, Due Date: Mar. 1, 2016. Idaho Power provides ten $2,000 scholarships for graduating seniors who reside in Idaho Power’s service area. Must enroll at an accredited Idaho or Oregon college, university, or professional-tech-nical school; student must have a 3.75 cumulative GPA through 7 semesters. Apply online at www.idahopower.com. The application can be filled out online, but then must be printed and mailed.St. Agnes Catholic Church Knights of Columbus, Due Date: Mar. 1, 2016. Male graduating members of St. Agnes Catholic Church are urged to apply. Can get paper copy in Miss Peterson’s office or request an electronic copy from Mr. Shirts.State of Idaho Opportunity Scholarship, Due Date: Mar. 1, 2016. Graduating seniors may apply online at http://www.boardofed.idaho.gov/scholarship/scholarship_jump.asp. Alois and Marie Goldmann Scholarship, Due Date: Mar. 15, 2016. This scholarship is in memory of a couple who died in the Auschwitz death camp. A video about the schol-arship and information on applying is available at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xUQ70rSkV8M.

Refuge crisis in US worsensby Bradley Parker

The first Congressional hearing examining President Obama’s plan to bring more Syrian ref-ugees into the US was recently held. As refugees from Syria and other countries continue flooding European nations, pressure has built on the US to play a larger role. President Obama responded by increasing the number of refugees into the country from 70,000 to 85,000 next year and 100,000 in 2017. The expectation is that about 10,000 of these will be reserved for people fleeing Syria. With so many people coming from the war torn region, many question how the United States’ government will adequately screen so many people for terrorist ties with so little access to their backgrounds. The Departments of State and Homeland Security and Health and Human Services say that they have a long history of working with refugees from violent regions.

(Source: www.usatoday.com/story/news/poli-tics/2015/10/01/syria-refugee-crisis-congress-hear-ings/731744321)

Ho-Ho Expressby Itzel Perez

There are many ways to help your community. Dozens of WHS students have the op-portunity to do so this Sat-urday, Dec. 19th, during the annual Ho-Ho Express. This is a chance for needy kids to spend fifty dollars at Walmart on anything they want for themselves or others. The children ride a bus ac-companied by high school helpers and spend half the day shopping. Volunteers are needed greatly. Please sign up in the office.

Senior picture DUEby DJ Moyle

Senior pictures for the yearbook were due last Friday. The requirements for senior pictures are a baby picture, a selected senior picture, and a senior quote. They should have been emailed to shirtst@weiserschool.org and been 300 dpi.

Senior party?by Melissa Curry

Parents and seniors of the class of 2016 should know that the school district does not provide funds for or plan the senior party. The par-ty is to be designed by parents and paid for through fundraisers and donations. If parents choose to attend three pre-approved locations, the high school will help with parts of the planning. Parents should con-tact Mrs. Gonzales, the senior class advisor, immedi-ately to begin to plan the 2016 senior party.Teens for jeansby Kaylee Nye

Many teens across the Unit-ed States, including in Ida-ho, experience homelessness or poverty. Last year, WHS alum Demmy Navarro intro-duced students to a nation-al program called Teens for Jeans. As a communi-ty, over 800 pairs of jeans were donated. This year, Sam Ruth and I are making a contribution to those in need. To start the new year, we will be holding a jean drive and collecting donations. We are hoping to reach 300 pairs of jeans this year, and we hope that you will donate. All donations will be taken to local shelters, so everything will help.

Rancher killed in Councilby Bradley Parker

Jack Yantis, 62, was shot by Adams County Sheriff’s Deputies Nov 1st. Why Yantis was killed isn’t clear and is being investigated by the FBI and the Idaho State Police. The rancher, Yantis, armed with a rifle, was preparing to euthanize a bull that had been hit by a car in front of his home. He has had to euthanize a bull many times before when one has been hit by a vehicle. During this confusing time, one of the dep-uties reportedly grabbed the scope of Yantis’s rifle and pushed him. The rifle may have gone off. That’s when the deputies opened fire on Yantis, who died at the scene. Rowdy Paradis, Yantis’s nephew, witnessed the shooting along with Yantis’s wife. He reported that the deputies murdered Yantis in his own driveway and that they chose to gun down a man for no reason. The two deputies who opened fire on Yantis are on paid administrative leave pending investigation of Yantis’s death. The names of these deputies were recently released to the public. Overall, the investigation will continue to see if Yantis was at fault or the deputies.

(Source: www.washingtonpost.com/news/morn-ing-mix/wp/2015/11/17/act-of-respect-why-family-of-idaho-rancher-slain-by-deputies-wont-name-his-killers/)

No name-calling week comingby Bradley Parker

January 18th-22nd is no name-calling week. This week is designated for people to be kind to others by not calling them names. This week was inspired by a young adult nov-el entitled “The Misfits” by James Howe. This book tells the story of four best friends trying to survive the seventh grade in the face of all too frequent taunts. No name-calling week’s goal is to focus national attention on the problem of name-calling and bullying in schools. It also provides stu-dents and educators with the tools and inspiration to launch an on-going dialogue about how to eliminate name-calling in their communities.

(Source: nationalsave.org/event/no-name-calling-week/)

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Giving opportunitiesby Kaylee Nye

As the holidays near, so does the season of giving. Many families live in extreme poverty or are homeless; now is the time for those with enough to realize how blessed they are. This month should be the month to give, so here are some ways to do so. Christmas Angel Tree - people grab a child’s name from a Christmas tree with their gender and age. People buy a few gifts to donate which gives that child the opportunity to receive a gift when he/she otherwise wouldn’t get one. HoHo Express - sign up in the office and on Dec. 19 at 7 am volunteers will take a bus to Walmart for the chance to take children to buy presents for Christmas and to spend the day with them. Donations - many places such as Ridleys have boxes set up for items such as non-perishable items and winter clothes like hats, scarves, and coats. These small items are given to local agencies like Love Inc. to help those in the community who need the assistance. If any of these ideas interest you, take the opportunity to help those in need.

Winter pet careby Anaya Hill

1. In or Out?Does your pet spend most of the time in the back yard? You might want to keep her indoors during the freezing months, especially if you live in bit-terly cold areas. 2. Bare Naked TruthIf you must keep your pet outdoors, consider this: Would a fur coat alone (even if it is faux mink) keep you warm against the elements? No? Well, your pet’s fur coat isn’t enough protection for your pet during winter, either. Be a pal and provide your dog with a warm, dry, and draft free shelter outside; the shelter should also comply with any state laws that apply.3. No More Frozen Dinners!Because it takes more energy to stay warm when it’s cold, outdoor animals eat more during the winter. Like-wise, fresh, running water is vital for maintaining your pet’s health. Keep an eye on the water bowls and make sure they haven’t turned into little skating rinks for fleas. Your pet really doesn’t want to have to lick a fro-zen lump of ice to get his water.4. Latest Fad Diet?Indoor animals, meanwhile, have different dietary needs. They conserve energy by sleeping more in the winter. Dogs and cats also exercise much less when they do go outside, so you may need to adjust the amount of food accordingly. After all, no one wants an overweight pet.5. Frosty the Biting SnowmanFrosting is a serious problem during winter, especial-ly for paws, tips of tails, and ears. This makes it even more important in keeping your pet warm, especially if they’re an outdoor pet. Get special booties, coats, and maybe a hat for your pet during her walks, and look for early warning signs of frostbite such as firm, waxy skin and blisters. 6. The Deadly DrinkThe worst of all the wintertime chemical spills is anti-freeze, which often leaks from a car’s radiator. It may taste delicious to your cats or dogs, but it is extremely deadly -- even the smallest sip can be fatal. If your pet starts acting “drunk” or begins to convulse, take him to the vet immediately. Better yet, keep all pets away from the garage and clean up any accidental spillage. 7. Salty SolutionDo you live in an area with cold and icy winters? You are probably accustomed to salt on the sidewalks and roads. However, the types of salt (typically calcium or sodium chloride) used to melt ice and snow and keep it from refreezing are somewhat harsh on delicate paws -- not to mention they corrode concrete and damage the beautiful vegetation. Protect your pet’s paws and keep him warm during walks, by outfitting him with booties.8. Joy RideCars are particularly attractive to animals in the winter time, especially frigid cats that love to climb up under the hood and curl up on the warm motor. This, as you can imagine, has led to many mishaps when motorists start their car. Avoid such accidents by tapping your car’s hood before starting the vehicle.

(Source:http://www.petmd.com/dog/care/evr_multi_caring_for_pets_during_winter?page=2)

Coach, Mr., Mrs., Ms., Miss?(A guide to proper name etiquette)by Melissa Curry

Have you ever felt annoyed or offended while sitting in class or walking down a hallway when you hear a stranger, acquaintance, or even your own friend mispronounce your name? Many of us have been at the point where we internally ask why a friend has not taken the time to find out how to correctly pronounce something as simple as a friend’s name. As teenagers, we often overlook the fact that many of us misuse prefixes such as Mrs., Miss., or Ms. with our teachers. For example, Mrs., pronounced misses, indicates that the woman you are currently addressing has a husband, while Miss indicates that she has never been married. Ms., on the other hand, indicates that the woman is a widow or divorced.

When it comes to the male teachers, Mr. is the only thing a person has to worry about...unless the teach-er is also a coach. When confronted with two choic-es to address a teacher, teenagers usually go with what is most familiar when they should go with how the individual prefers to be addressed. Mr. Dicker-son prefers to be called Coach when he is coaching sports and Mr. within the classroom. Mr. Srholec, on the other hand, does not mind what name he is called whether it be coach, Mr. Srholec, or just plain Srholec, as long as long it is spoken with respect. Mr. Lundberg said the name used depends on the person and the setting, though he said the general guidelines should be Coach on the field and Mr. in the classroom. Mr. Bo views his job more as coaching his students not only in the subject in the classroom but also in life. Accordingly, he prefers to be addressed as Coach.

Jan. is National Stalking Awareness Monthby Bradley Parker

January is national stalking awareness month. This month is designed to bring the public’s awareness to the real and harmful crime of stalking. The actual definition of stalking is the act or instance of stalking or harassing another in an aggressive, often threatening and illegal manner. National stalking awareness month began in January 2004 when the National Center for Victims of Crime launched it to increase the public’s understanding of the crime. In 2011 the White House issued the first presidential proclamation on national stalking awareness month. President Obama spoke of the effects that stalking has and the often dev-astating consequences it brings to the person and to the victim. Also, he proclaimed that the federal government has a strong commitment to combat stalking. When it comes to stalking, 21% of stalkers pursue their victims at least once per week, many daily, using more than one method; there are currently 6.6 million people in the United States who are victims of stalking. As a nation, we need to work toward stopping stalking all together by realizing that it is not a harmless activity and can cause victims to need the help of therapists.

(Source: www.rrsolire.org/?page_is+1586)

How to ask for letters of recommendationby Jackson Jensen

Seniors will soon be needing letters of recommendation for scholar-ships and college applications. Many often overlook simple cour-tesies when requesting these necessities. Following are several tips to receive even better letters.

Tip 1: Be professional while asking for recommen-dations.Tip 2: Go to your teachers with your head held high and confident. Tip 3: Tell them what college requires this recom-mendation. Tip 4: Be polite and courteous to teachers. Tip 5: Be prepared when asking teachers; have all papers nice and organized.Tip 6: Make sure to give teachers several days to get a letter done before it is needed. Tip 7: Always give teachers a current resume of ac-tivities.

How to avoid cold, flu this winterby Roy Arana

With winter upon us, people are bound to get the flu or a cold. There are actually tips to avoid getting sick, which are very simple. First, it is recommended that you get a flu shot. That gets rid of worrying about the flu in most cases. Next, you need to wash your hands, a lot. If you’re a busy person, chances are you are probably exposed to billions of bacteria every day. By washing your hands, most bacteria is eliminated and no longer harmful. Keeping a distance from people who are sick can save you from getting sick as well. If you’re not near them, they can’t infect you with anything. Lastly, and most importantly, keep your surroundings clean. If your house, desk, or any other thing you own is constantly clean, chances are you won’t get a cold or the flu.

(Source: http://symptoms.webmd.com/cold-and-flu-map-tool/avoid-cold-flu)

Teen health, technologyby Mikel Davies

Almost every person in the high school has a smart phone. Almost every person in the high school is on social media. Almost every person in the high school uses their phone way too much and puts themselves and their peers in very precarious situations. A teen who uses his/her fancy IPhone 6s or Samsung Galaxy S6 too much, sometimes over nine hours per day, damaging him/herself more severely than anyone would think. There are five main health, social, and psychological effects that can be directly linked to daily screen time.

The first and most obvious is that people who spend tons of time on their device are prone to and have shown to gain weight. Is it not obvious that people who spend all day sitting on their butt, staring at a five-inch screen will gain weight when compared to a person who is working out at a gym or even just up and moving. Another problem directly related to excessive use of cell phones is loneliness. Often on social media, people constantly compare themselves to others who always seem happy and carefree. This is a psychological condition in the subconscious called social comparison. People look perfect on social media because Instagram is only a ribbon of that person’s real life. Every person has problems, but very few post them on social media because it won’t get that precious “like.” Being an excessively lonely person and hav-ing severe social comparison are both incredibly bad things that result from the overuse of cell phones. A fourth problem that is unequivocally associated with disproportionate use of cell phones and other screens is that the use of technology prompts people, teens especially, to attempt to multitask. Trying to watch adorable kitten videos while writing a paper is most definitely not a good use of technology. People who fruitlessly attempt to multitask only hurt themselves by slashing their productivity. It is better to organize one’s time so that that paper that is due tomorrow is strong because one decides to watch cute kittens play after he finishes writing. Lastly, along with poor en-deavors at multitasking, teens who spend a majority of their day on their phone often have lower grades when compared to those who allot their time towards using time productively. In a recent social experiment, a school in London chose to “expel” cell phones from their classrooms. With this phone ban in place, test scores grew significantly and strongly supported the idea that the new IPhone is only a distraction in the classroom. Overall, cell phones, unless they are used wisely, can cause significant social, potentially eco-nomic, psychological, and health problems. To be truly useful, cell phones need to be used in moderation, like many other great things.

(Source: The Dangerous Ways Too Much Tech Can Mess With Teens’ Health. Huffington Post.)

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Washington County

Crime Stoppers

414-COPS, 414-2677,

1-800-222-TIPS

Callers may remain anonymous.

SportsBoys’ basketball doing wellby Corina Larsen

The varsity boys’ basketball season is off to a great start. At press time, the Wolverines were 2-0 overall before any conference play. Tony Lopez, Jacobi Beesley, Bridger Bumgarner, Alberto Sanchez, and Jase Roberts lead the team this season.

The boys have faced Melba and Nyssa recently and will participate in the Parma tournament Dec. **. The boys embarrassed Vale, 69-29. In that blowout, Sanchez had 18 points; Beesley had 14; Bumgarner had 10; Oscar Padilla had 12; and Lopez had eight.

Coach Adolfson said, “It’s not about any one person. You have to get over yourself and realize that it takes a group to get this thing done.”

Girls’ basketball gets rollingby Stella beams

The varsity girls’ basketball season is quite young. At press time, the Ladies’ were 1-2 overall before any conference play. Paige Brown, Emily Gluch, CJ Davis, Katie Davis, and Lauren Bouvia lead the team.

The Ladies have faced Skyview, Payette, New Plym-outh, Melba, and Emmett in recent days. They will see Vale away Dec. 19. The Ladies beat Vale, 36-30. Brown had 21 points and 13 rebounds. Gluch had 10 points and 14 rebounds. Katie Davis had four points, and Bouvia had one.

Coach Reed’s concern “isn’t on how we start the sea-son; it’s on how we finish.”

Wrestling gets goingby Garrett Hinkley

At press time, the Wol-verine wrestling team was 4-2 on the season before entering conference work. At the recent Bucks Bags tournament in Boise, the Wolverines placed 17 of 39 in duals, with senior Kristian Claudio going undefeated.

The team competed in the Muilenburg tournament in LaGrande last weekend. They will participate in the Emmett holiday tournament this weekend. According to Coach Dickerson, “We need to improve!”

Kobe Bryant retiresby Chris Phillips

As many of you may know, Kobe Bryant is retiring at the end of this season. He has scored over 81 points in a single game. He also scored 2,832 points in a single season. He is a five-time NBA champion, a two-time NBA finals MVP, and a two-time scoring champion. Bryant has played on 14 all NBA teams and has been the player of the month 16 times. He came into the NBA in 1996. He was picked 13th in the first round. Overall, he has been playing in the NBA for 20 years for the Lakers.

Super Bowl champs?by Trey Little

Who do you think is going to win the Super Bowl? This was the question put to various students around school. These were their responses:

•Oscar Padilla (12): Denver Broncos •Rylie Zucker (12): Seattle Seahawks•Nayeli Sosa (12): Seattle Seahawks•Seve Bokides (11): Denver Broncos•Jasmine Rios (11): Seattle Seahawks•Michelle Nunez (11): Denver Broncos•Alberto Sanchez (11): Dallas Cowboys•Garett Owings (11): Carolina Panthers•Marilla Thompson (10): Seattle Seahawks•Nick Ruddell (10): Carolina Panthers•Serene Hooper (10): Denver Broncos•Denton George (10): Denver Broncos•Nathaniel Mink (9): New England Patriots•Bailey Adams (9): Seattle Seahawks•Brandon Egbert (9): Carolina Panthers•Sarah Reyes (9): Seattle Seahawks

Featured athletes (wrestling)by Alecia Lundberg & Hannah Alder

Name: Alex AlbaSchool sports played: soccer, wrestling, trackFuture plans: work & collegeFavorite Christmas carol: Jingle Bells Favorite gift received: clothesFavorite Christmas movie: How the Grinch Stole Christ-mas

Name: Kristian ClaudioSchool sports played: soccer, football, wrestling, baseballFuture plans: to go to college and to wrestleFavorite Christmas carol: I don’t care for Christmas music. Favorite gift received: motorcycleFavorite Christmas movie: any John Wayne movie

Name: Mario ConstantinoSchool sports played: wrestlingFuture plans: to make millionsFavorite Christmas carol: Grandma Got Hit By a ReindeerFavorite gift received: a hugFavorite Christmas movie: How the Grinch Stole Christmas

Name: Cristian DelgadilloSchool sports played: wrestlingFuture plans: to go to collegeFavorite Christmas carol: I don’t have one.Favorite gift received: Jordan’sFavorite Christmas movie: How the Grinch Stole Christmas

Name: Marco DelgadilloSchool sports played: football, wrestlingFuture plans: to live in a tiny house in HawaiiFavorite Christmas carol: All I Want for Christmas Is YouFavorite gift received: an ugly sweater from my grandmaFavorite Christmas movie: Elf

Name: Rafael FavelaSchool sports played: wrestling, trackFuture plans: to become lord of the manorFavorite Christmas carol: I don’t listen to them.Favorite gift received: Jordan’sFavorite Christmas movie: How the Grinch Stole Christmas

Name: Mark GalligarSchool sports played: football, wrestlingFuture plans: to go to BSU with NariahFavorite Christmas carol: any one with NariahFavorite gift received: anything from NariahFavorite Christmas movie: any movie with Nariah

Name: Nick GluchSchool sports played: football, track, wres-tlingFuture plans: to get rich & own a big ranchFavorite Christmas carol: Save That MoneyFavorite gift received: my super fresh wheels on my pickupFavorite Christmas movie: Bad Santa

Name: Isaac LopezSchool sports played: cross-country, wres-tling, trackFuture plans: undecidedFavorite Christmas carol: Jingle BellsFavorite gift received: Xbox 360Favorite Christmas movie: Home Alone

Name: Shane LoughranSchool sports played: wrestling, cross-coun-tryFuture plans: to attend a carpentry programFavorite Christmas carol: The Nutcracker ChristmasFavorite gift received: my shotgunFavorite Christmas movie: Christmas Vacation

Name: Gustavo MolinaSchool sports played: soccer, football, wrestlingFuture plans: to go to collegeFavorite Christmas carol: Jingle BellsFavorite gift received: a tvFavorite Christmas movie: The Polar Ex-press

Name: Taylor WalkerSchool sports played: track, wrestlingFuture plans: to have a great job and to make lots of moneyFavorite Christmas carol: Jingle Bells Favorite gift received: familyFavorite Christmas movie: Rudolf the Red-Nosed Reindeer

Bowl season nearsby Anaya Hill

With the end of the regular college football season upon us, it’s time for bowl season. Following is a partial sched-ule of BCS bowl games.

Dec. 22 - Famous Idaho Potato BowlAkron vs. Utah StateBoise, Idaho | Albertsons Stadium3:30 p.m. on ESPNDec. 23 - San Diego County Credit Union Poinsettia BowlBoise State vs. Northern IllinoisSan Diego | Qualcomm Stadium4:30 p.m. on ESPNDec. 31 - College Football Playoff Semifinal at the Capi-tal One Orange BowlNo. 4 Oklahoma vs. No. 1 ClemsonMiami Gardens, Florida | Sun Life Stadium4 p.m. on ESPNJan. 1 - Battle Frog Fiesta BowlNotre Dame vs. Ohio StateGlendale, Arizona | University of Phoenix Stadium1 p.m. on ESPN Rose Bowl Game Presented by Northwestern Mutual:Stanford vs. IowaPasadena, California | Rose Bowl5 p.m. on ESPN Allstate Sugar BowlOklahoma State vs. Ole MissNew Orleans | Mercedes-Benz Superdome8:30 p.m. on ESPNJan. 11 - College Football Playoff National Champion-ship Presented by AT&TGlendale, Arizona | University of Phoenix Stadium8:30 p.m on ESPN

(Source: http://espn.go.com/college-football/story/_/page/bowlschedule2015/2015-2016-college-football-playoff-schedule-bowl-schedule)

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Opinion/Editorial

Editor’s columnby Roy Arana

With the holidays quickly approaching, it is ridicu-lously easy to get lazy with class work, but that’s the worst thing a student could do to end the semester! Since finals are worth at least 20% of the semester grade, it is important to study and to grind through the rest of the semester to attain good grades. To ease the stress of finals, make sure to attend one of the WHS sports events! It’s a great way to take your mind off things and get involved in the school! Good luck with finals and happy holidays!

Juniors editor’s columnby Itzel Perez

With finals going on this week, our priority should be to STUDY!! Make sure to divide your time wisely, so you study equally for each class. Although finals are tough, keep in mind that Christ-mas is coming quickly! Kaylee and I hope you guys have an amazing Christmas. If you have any ques-tions or comments, feel free to talk to either me or her.

College Corner-Decby Miss Peterson

Christmas Break is nearly here, and FAFSA application season is right around the corner. For those of you who don’t know, the FAFSA is a seemingly magical and mysterious piece of the puzzle when applying for financial aid for college. FAF-SA stands for Free Application for Federal Student Aid. Nearly all college students complete this, because, believe it or not, there is some aid out there for many students! Is it enough? That depends on the student’s personal financial situation.

In preparation for FAFSA completion, WHS will host a fi-nancial aid information night Jan. 4, 2016 at 7 pm. This is a chance for seniors and their families to learn what needs to be done regarding the financial aid process. When it comes to actually completing the FAFSA, WHS is hosting four different workshops that come with personal help. Jan. 9th and 30th will be from 11:00 am-1:30 pm in the computer lab in room 20. Jan. 13th and Feb. 3rd will be from 6-7:30 pm in the same room. Any students with questions about the FAFSA can stop by to see Ms. Peterson any time.

In November, every senior across the State of Idaho received a letter from the Governor stating that they either got into six of the eight public colleges/universities in Idaho or all eight of them. While this letter can be quite confusing, students still need to apply to the colleges they are interested in. Here is a piece from Nextstepsidaho.gov regarding the (Direct Admis-sions) letters:

“The Idaho State Board of Education is implementing this initiative, called Direct Admissions, to provide more Idaho students with the opportunity to obtain a postsecondary cer-tificate or degree.Direct Admissions proactively admits Idaho public high school seniors to the state’s public higher education institutions based on each student’s grade point average (GPA) and college en-trance exam score.

Receiving the letter is just the first step, but one that the State Board hopes will present some clear options for your family. You and your student will need do some research on which school might offer what they want to study and what kind of college community fits them best. Together, you can learn more from the Idaho Schools Directory. Additionally, there are many resources on this site to help you evaluate schools and plan for the future.

Once your student has decided which school they want to attend, they will need to follow the normal application pro-cedures, even though they’ve been pre-accepted. This means submitting an application and transcripts as well as paying the application fee. However, now the application for admission will serve as the student’s indication that he/she has chosen an institution to attend in the fall, and a spot will be saved in next year’s class. Also, the application fee paid to your student’s institution of choice will be credited back on their first tuition bill.”

Any seniors with any questions regarding this letter or any applications they completed should stop by to see Ms. Pe-terson. After the first of the year, ALL seniors will meet with Ms. Peterson to start completing scholarship applications and to go over their plans.

Fashion policeby DJ Moyle

This month’s trends are in and here. The first one is wearing cheerleading sweaters. Plus, there is also the wearing of cheerleading shoes. Another trend is carrying around a cheerleading back pack or duffle bag. Guys are wearing cheer sweaters and shoes as well. Plus, the wearing of poly-ester knit shorts with a white stripe down the sides and a Letterman jacket is heating up. These are this month’s trends; I hope you dress to impress and look your best.

Movie review- Insurgentby Daniel Parker

5 of 10 stars 2015 Summit Li-onsgateScience Fiction Adventure R a t e d : PG-13

The second film of the movie franchise of the Divergent book series, Insurgent is an action/romance adventure taking place after the events of Divergent. The story takes place when Divergent Tris Prior (Shailene Woodley) and her com-rades, Four (Theo James), Caleb (Ansel Elgort), and Peter (Miles Teller), as they are on the run from the Erudite leader, Jeanine (Kate Winslet) who sends soldiers to capture them. After looking through wreckage, they uncover a five-sided box with each friction symbol that’s left by the founders of each friction. Jeanine is trying to open the box but finds out that it can only be opened by a Divergent. Jeanine then seeks out Tris Prior to open the box. I enjoyed the movie, despite negative reviews from critics, and I recommend it to anyone who likes action and adventure. I give it 10 out of 10 stars!

What is your dream elective?by Gregory Reyes

With second semester looming on the horizon, some stu-dents may be changing their schedules after Christmas. This brings up the thought of new, exciting classes. Several WHS students were recently asked to name their dream elective class. Their responses follow:

• Paige Brown (12): Career Development•Nick Gluch (12): Archeology•Kelsie Hemphill (12): Creative Writing• Jacks Whitehurst (12): Archeology• Taylor Jo Wood (11): Home Economics•CJ Davis (11): Naptime as an elective• Jackson Jensen (11): Dance•Ricky Sandoval (11): Weights• Sydney Dille (10): Home Economics• Emma Estes (10): Dance •Colton Burr (10): Gaming• Philip Sullen (10): Naptime•Ari Perez (9): Acting class• Sydney Reyes (9): Dance• Joel Juarez (9): Marketing• Isiah Daniel (9): Business

Would you rather…by Itzel Perez

In the spirit of Christmas, WHS students were asked if they’d rather meet Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer or Frosty the Snowman. Their responses follow:

•Ariadne Perez (9): Frosty the Snowman•Aline Cortez (9): Rudolph •Brody vonBrethorst (9): Frosty the Snowman• Juan Garcia (9): Rudolph• Stephanie Lazaro (10): Frosty the Snowman• Serene Hooper (10): Rudolph•Daniel Prado (10): Rudolph•Michael Brooke (10): Rudolph•Kaylee Nye (11): Frosty the Snowman•Alecia Lundberg (11): Rudolph•Aaron Reel (11): Frosty the Snowman• Jason Kerner (11): Rudolph•Camille Weldon (12): Rudolph• Lilly Burns (12): Frosty the Snowman•Bradley Parker (12): Rudolph• Tony Lopez (12): Rudolph

If you were the principal…by Hope Fuller & Kayd Kunz

WHS students don’t always agree with what our principal does. They have their own ideas of how to make the school better. Several WHS students were asked to name what they would do if they were the principal. Their responses follow:

•Keegan Webb (9) – to be willing to help kids at any time • Santiago Ixta (9) – to have no school for the day • Stella Beams (9) – to have teachers bring food and candy

every day•Bailey Stone (9) – to make school start later •Rein Laan (10) – to have a 30-minute nap time between

5th and 6th hour •Michael Brooke (10) – to offer free ice cream on Fridays •Huntley Kenley (10) –to have a longer lunch hour • Emma Davidson (10) - to have Panda Express and Mc-

Donald’s for lunch • Seve Bokides (11) – to have Fridays off •Austen Thomason (11) – to have a long lunch break and

better lunch •Marissa Goodwin (11) – to have no Fridays and nap hours• Theresa Moyle (11) – to fix school, shorter days and

longer lunch • Trey Little (12) – to have free time when you want • Lilly Burns (12) – to have a late start on Fridays •Rylie Zucker (12) - I would allow leggings.

Should refugees beallowed in?by Melanie Girvin

With continued attacks against Middle Eastern countries, thousands of ref-ugees are coming to the US in order to find safety. Several WHS students were recently asked, should we keep allowing these refugees to enter our borders? Why or why not? Their re-sponses follow:

•Cami Thomas (9) - No, because they could be undercover terrorists.

•Brooke Anderson (9) - Yes, because they need a place to stay.

• Jack Barrie (9) - Yes, as long as they don’t have “connec-tions,” they should be safe.

•Rhett Kunz (9) - Yes, because they had everything taken from them and they need a place to stay.

• Lexie Zucker & Hannah Walker (10) - We don’t want to offend anyone, but we don’t want terrorists.

• Emma Packer (10) - Yes, they deserve to live in a safe environment to raise their families.

•Berke Walker (10) - I think that they can have refuge, just not stay here permanently.

•Hunter Hendrickson (10) - Yes, because they need to be protected.

•Kassidy Hagans (11) - No, because we don’t know them.•Madison Flores (11) - Yes, as long as they don’t “mess

up the flow”.•Ben Wootton (11) - Yes, because everyone has the right

to feel safe.• Jackson Jensen (11) - Yes, because there will be better

opportunities for them. • Lillian Burns (12) - Yes, because none of it is their fault.•Camille Weldon (12) - No, we have enough immi-

grants-they can find refuge closer to their homes.•Alex Lattin (12) - If they have background checks and

we take precautions, they should be allowed. • Lane Smith (12) - They are fine- it’s not like they are

doing anything.

What is your favorite Christmas treat?by Kryshna Sylvia & Emma Burns

The holiday season often includes yummy dessert treats. With that in mind, several WHS students were asked to name their favorite Christmas treat. Their responses follow:

• Stella Beams (9) - sugar cookies• Kyler Thomason (9) - gingerbread• Lexie Zucker (10) - toffee• Jose Prado (10) - fruit cake• Adrienne Aburto (11) - banana bread• Alex Avalos (11) - Rice Krispy treats• Zach Lugo (12) - Christmas cookies• Lilly Burns (12) - cake batter frost at Dutch Bros.

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FeatureFinal exams – do they help?by Kassidy Hagans

Final exams began earlier this week. WHS went back to requiring that every student take a final exam in each class both semesters a few years ago with the thought that they help to prepare college-bound students for their future. However, do current students agree that they are helpful? Several were asked to name both the pros and cons of final exams. Their responses follow:

•Alex Latin (12): pro, it can help your grades if you do well; con, it could make your grade be bad

• LeeAnne Wheeler (12): there are no pros; con, endless studying and crying

•Melanie Girvin (11): pro, it is closer to Christmas break; con, all of the studying

•Austen Thomason (11): pro, helps prepare for ACT and SAT; con, they can be difficult

•Daniel Parker (10): pro, study hard, you can do well and get a better grade; con, can drop grade a lot

•Ari Chapman (10): pro, lets you know where you are at in classes; con, you want to hurt yourself

•Ashlan Ward (9): pro, getting to go home when you don’t have a class; con, they are long

•Braden Bumgarner (9): I don’t know; I have never taken them.

Snow – do you like it?by Melanie Girvin Christmas time is here, and snow time too! How-ever, there are disagree-ments about whether snow is ‘good’ or ‘bad’. Several WHS students were asked for their opinion on the white stuff. Their responses fol-low:

Amber Boyle (9) - Uhuh, it is too cold.Sara Lundberg (9) - Yes, because my family goes skiing.Keagan Webb (9) - Yes, because I love sledding.Darrian Hoobery (9) - I like snowmobiling, so yes.Sarah Jorgenson (10) - Yes, it is pretty, fun to play in, and I can really make people mad.Hannah Walker (10) - I like when it is fluffy and pretty, but not when it is slushy.Devin Pohl (10) - Well, seeing how I have an excuse to stay inside… Hunter Stone (10) - Yes, because it is white.Megan Warnock (11) - Yes! So Olaf and I can drift.Alisha Lavy (11) - Yes, so I can build Olaf and play in the snow.Brenan Westover (12) - Yes, I like skiing and 4-wheeling in the snow, and it’s good for the farms.Orin Winegar (11) - Yes because it is fluffy and it covers the crap in people’s yards. Bekah Johnson (12) - Yes, I love to ski. Briana Pruner (12) - No, I don’t like to be cold.Bryan Downing (12) - Yes, because I like to throw snow-balls at people.Nick Gluch (12) - Yes, because it is different from summer.Mr. Dickerson (staff) - God was mad, so he did two things… First was mosquitos, second was SNOW.

How much time do you spend on a screen?by Lizette Almanza

Several recent studies have shown a link between excessive screen time and decreased health in teens. With this in mind and a prolonged vacation coming up, several WHS students were asked how many hours per day they spend on a screen. Their responses follow:

•Darin Perez (9) - 8 hours• Logan Wood (9) - 4 hours•Abbey Shirts (9) - 4 hours• Sara Lundberg (9) - 5 hours•Braulio Viveros (10) - 3 hours•Noah Maxa (10) - 2 hours• Emma Estes (10) - 4 hours• Taylor Colella (10) - 6 hours•Ricky Sandoval (11) - 10 hours•David Perez (11) - 12 hours• Taylor Jo Wood (11) - 9 hours•Haillie Wilkinson (12) - 3 hours•Kenny Nakamura (12) - 3 hours•Becca Shepherd (12) - 4 hours•Nick Gluch (12) - 6 hours

Career of month - pro golf ball diverby Itzel Perez

If you enjoy diving into murky water to retrieve golf balls, do I have a job for you! A professional golf ball retriever dives into the lake or pond near the course to get the balls back that are in the water. Work can be pretty strenuous, so you have to be able to lift a 65-pound plus bags of golf balls, be able to dive blindly without the use of a compass or lighting, and be able to dive in any weather conditions. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the course representative and the diver need to negotiate the price, so there is no set salary.

(Source: www.bls.gov; www.golfballdiving.com)

College of the Month: BSU by Lillian Burns

Boise State University is one of the most well-known public universities in Idaho. Their colors are orange and blue, and their mascot is the Broncos. Their average number of enrolled students is 20,000, with the majority of their students graduating with degrees in nursing, psychology, and criminal justice. The resident undergraduate tuition at BSU is $5,300, with approximately $124 million in financial aid being dispersed among an av-erage of 13,000 students every year. Although the students at BSU are mainly from Washington, California, Oregon, Nevada, and Idaho, Boise State has one of the most diverse student populations in the nation. BSU also competes in the NCAA I (MWC). There are over 500 student athletes who participate in the Boise State athletic program, about 100 more women than men on average. The student to faculty ratio at Boise State is 20:1.

(Source: bsu.edu)

Dec strange holidaysby Bradley Parker

*Answer The Telephone Like Buddy The Elf Day: Dec 18 *Mudd Day: Dec 20*Crossword Puzzle Day: Dec 21*Human Light Celebration: Dec 23*Egg Nog Day: Dec 24*A’Phabet Day or No “L” Day : Dec 25*National Candy Cane Day: Dec 26 *Howdy Doody Day: Dec 27*National Chocolate Day: Dec 28 & 29 *Tick Tock Day: Dec 29*Bacon Day: Dec 30 *Leap Second Time Adjustment Day: Dec 31*No Interruptions Day: Dec 31*Universal Hour of Peace Day: Dec 31*World Peace Meditation Day: Dec 31

(Source: http://www.brownielocks.com/DEC-2015.html)

Turritopsis jelly fishby Melissa Curry

This month we will once again swim into the depths of Earth’s oceans to find the turritopsis jellyfish, a small water-bound animal, tiny in size, averaging about the width and height of a human pinkie nail (4.5mm or 0.18 in). Originating in the Caribbean and Mediterranean Seas and preferring warmer water temperatures though it has been spotted in cold waters, the turritopsis jellyfish is a rather harmless creature with a diet that consists of plankton, fish eggs, and small mollusks. With transparent blue coloring, a visibly bright red stomach, and up to 90 tentacles, this organism is certainly a beautiful if tiny creature to behold. It does not seem to bear any unusual or mind blowing characteristics and would only merit a glance to the casual observer. After researching this jellyfish, it is my opinion that this small organism has the most amazing natural power that puts creatures large and small to shame...even some of our fictional super heroes of old who boast everything from super strength to mindreading abilities. Discovered in 1883, the turritopsis jellyfish’s unique ability was not discovered until almost a century later in the 1990’s, the ability to be biologi-cally immortal. Though the turritopsis is able to die from old age and usually does, it has the power to revert to immaturity at will, usually when it is threatened by starvation, physical damage, and other life-threatening crises. This unique power to make all of its cells younger gives the jellyfish the very real possibility to live forever and provides a trump card giving the species an increasing advantage in its natural and unnatural habitats. Though scientists don’t foresee any anti-aging creams resulting from study of this creature, they do see a possible cure for cancer. The turritopsis’s ability to make its cells younger, reverse damage, and even change the very nature of said cells makes it very possible that this odd and rather normal looking creature holds the key to defeating one of the most deadly and hated diseases in mankind’s history.

(Sources; http://immortal-jellyfish.com/immortal-jelly-fish-facts/; http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2009/01/090130-immortal-jellyfish-swarm.html)

Nonsense wordby Kailyn Doty

This month’s nonsense word is salopettes. A boy and a girl from each grade were asked to try to define this unusual word. Before you read the answer, try to guess what you think it means. Hint: it has to do with winter.

• Juan Garcia (9) - a type of fish•Kelsey Koeppen (9) - a type of shoe or a shoe insert•Daniel Parker (10) - shopping for someone •Vanessa Hernandez (10) - someone who slaps their pet• Izayah James (11) - a type of seasoning• Skylar Chavez (11) - spaghetti•Brenan Westover (12) - when a monkey wants a banana

but they another monkey steals it and could be related to high school today

•Camille Weldon (12) - part of your hair

Good guesses! The actual definition is high-waisted skiing pants with shoulder straps. Better luck next month!

January fun factsby Bradley Parker

1. The flower symbols of Jan. are snowdrop & carnation.2. Jan.’s gem is garnet, which represents constancy.3. The zodiac signs for Jan. is Capricorn (Dec. 22 – Jan. 19) and Aquarius (Jan. 20 – Feb. 18).4. Common Sense by Thomas Paine was published on Jan. 10, 1776.5. On Jan. 10, 1920 the League of Nations was established.6. National Blood Donor Month7. National Braille Literacy Month8. National Hobby Month9. National Soup Month10. National Staying Healthy Month11. On Jan. 8, 1798, Amendment 11 to the Constitution was proclaimed, which modified the Supreme Court’s power.12. On Jan. 4, 1896, Utah became the 45th state.13. On Jan. 6, 1912,. New Mexico became the 47th state.14. Jan. 8 - Elvis Presley’s birthday15. Jan. 11 - National Human Trafficking Awareness Day in the United States16. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day in the United States - Third Monday17. On Jan. 2, 1788, Georgia ratified the Constitution.18. Jan. 26 - Republic Day in India19. On Jan. 1, 1863, the Emancipation Proclamation was issued by Abraham Lincoln.20. On the first Monday of Jan., Handsel Monday is cele-brated in Scotland and northern England.

(Source: http://www.famousbirthdays.com/facts-about-jan-uary.html)

Science fiction day nearsby Tiara Goodenough

Science fiction day is celebrated an-nually on Jan 2nd. The date was cho-sen after the birthday of famous sci-ence fiction writer Isaac Asimov. The Hallmark Channel and Scholastic Corporation, among others, recognize this holiday. To celebrate this ‘holiday’, people typically chill out all day binge watching their fa-vorite science fiction TV shows or movie series. Fans of this holiday also read their favorite science fiction novels.

(Source: https://www.daysoftheyear.com/days/sci-ence-fiction-day/)

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2015-16 Wolverine Scoop staff

Officers: Roy Arana & Jonathon Shaber = Editors

Kaylee Nye & Itzel Perez = Junior editors

Reporters:Corina Larsen Anaya Hill Kryshna SylviaTrey Little Kailyn Doty Madison MacDonaldHannah Alder Mikel Davies Katie DavisChris Phillips Lillian Burns Tiara GoodenoughEmma Burns Greg Reyes DJ MoyleJackson Jensen Bradley Parker Daniel ParkerAlecia Lundberg Kyle Ferren Hope FullerStella Beams Mia Sanchez Conner HiltMelissa Curry Nina Kommer Kayd KunzAusten Thomason Kassidy Hagans Melanie GirvinLizette Almanza Garrett Hinkley

Be kind to serversby Madison MacDonald

Loomisuary is National Be Kind to Food Servers Month. To show appreciation for our WHS Wolverines cooks, the news-paper staff wants students to have the opportunity to get to know our kitchen staff: Mrs. Verity, Mrs. Self, Mrs. Loom-is, and Mrs. Real.

1. How long have you been working as a cook for Weiser? - Verity: 16 years - Self (Head Cook): 17 years - Loomis: 6 years - Real: 20 years2. What interested you in the foodservice industry? -Verity: “The hours interested me. I get the summers off

and get paid for it!” -Self: “I just fell into it.” -Loomis: “The hours were nice, I get summers off, and I

get to spend more time with my family.” -Real: “The hours.”3. What is the best/worst part of your job? -Verity: “The hours and the hours. I love getting done at 1

in the afternoon, but I hate having to be here at 6 a.m..” -Self: “My favorite part is working with the students, but I

cannot stand the government regulations.” -Loomis: “I like the hours and the fact that I get to meet new

people and work with such wonderful ladies all day, but it is all day and my

feet tend to get tired.” -Real: “I love the kids, and for me there isn’t really a bad

part, just some bad days.”4. What is your dream vacation spot? -Verity: “anywhere Johnny Depp is” -Self: “anywhere but home, I love to get away.” -Loomis: “anywhere I can put my feet up and relax” -Real: “Europe”5. What are some of your favorite meals? -Verity: “My husband is Italian, so I should say Italian, but

I LOVE Mexican food.” -Self: “restaurant food, anything that I don’t have to cook” -Loomis: “I don’t know; I don’t really have a favorite,

maybe Italian.” -Real: “Pasta. Pasta is my favorite.”6. Do you prefer to cook or bake? -Verity: “Cook. I like to just throw things in there; when

you bake, you have to actually measure stuff and I don’t like that.” -Self: “I like to bake.” -Loomis: “bake” -Real: “cook”7. What do you plan to do after retirement? -Verity: “Retirement? What’s that? Never heard of it.” -Self: “I would travel the U.S. in a camper.” -Loomis: “I would spend more time with my family in our

cabin in McCall.” -Real: “I would travel.”8. How long have you been married and how many children/grandchildren do you have?” -Verity: “27 years, 2 children, and 3 granddoggies” -Self: “26 years, 5 children, and 7 grandchildren” -Loomis: “35 years, 7 children, and 6 and a half grandchil-

dren” -Real: “29 years, 4 children, and 3.5 grandchildren” 9. What are your hobbies outside of work? -Verity: “Wal-Mart. I guess, movies, too, but mostly Wal-

Mart. I also like walks and spending time with my family.” -Self: “I like camping, hunting, fishing, and shotgunning.”

(I wouldn’t recommend messing with these ladies!) -Loomis: “I enjoy sewing, reading, and my family.” -Real: “I like to read, snowmobile, camp, and do crafts.”10. What are some of your biggest pet peeves? -Verity: “I hate it when my husband leaves the toilet seat

up.” -Self: “I have too many to mention.” -Loomis: “I cannot stand disrespect in any situation.” -Real: “I hate it when someone leaves their blinker on.”

Favorite gift received?by Greg Reyes

Christmas is right around the corner, so many have long since finished their Christ-mas list for Santa. Several WHS students were asked to name their all-time favorite gift they’ve ever received. Their responses follow:

• Haillie Wilkinson (12): laptop• Rebecca Shephard (12): my bike• Jose Ruben Perez (12): my first soccer ball• Tony Lopez (12): basketball• Skylar Chavez (11): a puppy• David Perez (11): my two front teeth• Emily Morales (11): money• Carson Beams (11): my dog• Hannah Walker (10): a 4-wheeler• Taylor Colella (10): money• Ammon Sprayberry (10): fuzzy socks• Dalton Turrentine (10): a baseball signed by Willie Mays• Keegan Webb (9): money• Shayanne Hilmer (9): my phone• Mckayd Wall (9): laptop• Kale Paynor (9): my bike

Favorite Christmas movieby Lizette Almanza

Christmas movies, bot classic and new, have been on tv for weeks. Several WHS students were asked to name their favorite Christmas movie to get them into the holiday spirit. Their responses follow:

• Sheyanne Hilmer (9) - A Christ-mas Story

• Sierra Paulsen (9) - Elf• Keegan Webb (9) - The Year with-

out Santa Claus• Kayd Wall (9) - How the Grinch Stole Christmas• Sydney Dille (10) - How the Grinch Stole Christmas• Llanne Gibson (10) - Polar Express• Dalton Turrentine (10) - Polar Express • Berke Walker (10)- A Christmas Story• Michelle Nunez (11) - Home Alone• Skylar Chavez (11) - Elf• Kayd Kunz (11) - Elf• Jackson Jensen (11) - Christmas in Handcuffs• Abby Goertz (12) - How the Grinch Stole Christmas• Alexa Burris (12) - White Christmas• Jacobi Beesley (12) - Home Alone• Tony Lopez (12) - Elf

New Year’s resolutions by Connor hilt

Christmas vacation starts this Friday, followed soon after by New Year’s Eve. With this in mind, several WHS students were asked to name their New Year’s resolution. Their responses follow:

• Jessii Moser (9): to have a great 2nd semester •Brenden Barbot (9): to get good at something •Rein Laan (10): to eat lots of chocolate •Danny Olivo(10): to be a better person • Sydney Maloney (10): to survive 2nd semester • Emma Davidson (10): to get teachers to like me •Hope Fuller (11): to try harder in track • Theresa Moyle (11): to volunteer more •Kayd Kunz (11): to stay alive • Seve Bokides (11): to do better in school •Brenan Westover (12): to wake up and kick butt every day • Jase Roberts (12): to star in an Avengers movie some day • Lilly Burns (12): to get crap loads of scholarships •Rylie Zucker (12): to stop dropping my phone

Holiday movie releasesby Bradley Parker

DECEMBER 2015Dec 18 (Friday)Alvin and the Chipmunks: The Road ChipSistersStar Wars: The Force Awakens (in 3D)Son of Saul (Limited)December 23 (Wednesday)45 Years (Limited)Where to Invade Next (Limited)December 25 (Friday - Christmas)ConcussionDaddy’s HomeJoyPoint BreakThe Hateful Eight (Limited)The Revenant (Limited)December 30 (Wednesday)Anomalisa (Limited)

(Source: http://www.firstshowing.net/schedule2015/)

January is National Soup Monthby Tiara Goodenough

January is celebrated as national soup month. America is the only the country that nationally claims a soup month, but most of the world is starting to tag along in celebrations. You can celebrate national soup month by making or eating soup! Some fan favorite soups are chicken noodle, tomato basil, 1000 bean, and loaded potato.

(Source:http://m.campbellskitchen.com/recipecollections/featured%20recipes/celebrate%20national%20soup%20month?utm_referrer=direct%2Fnot%20provided)

This day in historyby Mikel Davies

1994 - Dow-Jones hits record 3803.881994 - Ice skater Nancy Kerrigan is attacked by Tonya Hard-ing’s bodyguard1994 - Yat Weiju swims world record 50m butterfly stroke (26.44)1994 - Zhong Weiju swims world record 25m pool (26.44)1995 - Atlanta Hawks’ Lenny Wilkens becomes NBA’s win-ningest coach (939)1995 - A chemical fire in an apartment complex in Manila, Philippines, leads to the discovery of plans for Project Bojinka, a mass-terrorist attack.1996 - Record $65.2 million British lottery won by 3 people (2-3-4-13-42-44)1997 - “It’s a Slippery Slope,” closes at Vivian Beaumont Theater NYC1998 - Barry Switzer resigns as Dallas Cowboy coach1998 - Don Sutton selected to Baseball Hall of Fame2000 - The flu outbreak in Britain puts pressure on NHS2002 - Daniel Bedingfield returns to No.1 on the UK singles chart for the second time with Gotta Get Thru This2004 - Costas Simitis announces his resignation as president of the Panhellenic Socialist Movement in Greece.2005 - Mississippi Civil Rights Workers Murders: Edgar Ray Killen is arrested as a suspect for the 1964 murders of three Civil Rights workers.2010 - 36th People’s Choice Awards: Johnny Depp & Sandra Bullock win (Movie Star) and Hugh Laurie & Katherine Heigl win (TV Drama)2011 - 37th People’s Choice Awards: Johnny Depp & Kristen Stewart win (Movie Star) and Hugh Laurie & Lisa Edelstein win (TV Drama)2013 - 10 people are killed by a US drone attack in South Waziristan, Pakistan2013 - The NHL reaches an agreement to end a 113 day lockout2014 - Zach Johnson wins the 2014 PGA Tournament of Champions2014 - Truce begins between Free Syrian Army and forces loyal to President Bashar al-Assad in northern Damascus2014 - 16th BCS National Championship: #1 Florida State beats #2 Auburn, 34-312015 - Randy Johnson, Pedro Martínez, John Smoltz and Craig Biggio are inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame

(Source: http://www.onthisday.com/day/january/6?p=2)

Top 10 greatest Christmas filmsby Bradley Parker

1. It’s a Wonderful Life (1946)2. The Gathering (1977)3. Christmas Carol (1984)4. The Bishop’s Wife (1947)5. A Christmas Story (1983)6. Christmas Carol (1951)7. National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation (1989)8. Miracle on 34th Street (1947)9. Remember the Night (1940)10. Home Alone (1990)

(Source: www.breitbart.com/big-hollywood/2013/12/24/top-ten-greatest-christmas-films/)

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WHS STUDENTS: Color the picture on the back page each month and turn it in, with your name and grade, to Mrs. Gonzales in Room 13 to win an awesome little prize.

Comic submitted by senior Skylar Thomas

Horoscopesby Mia Sanchez

Aries (Mar 21-Apr 19) - A New Moon in Sagittarius is just the extra spark plug you need to perk yourself up for the upcom-ing onslaught of ‘eat, drink and be merry’. It’s the last hurrah with the year quickly coming to a close. Your best bet is to take a no–nonsense approach and thought patterns become more logical, with the focus on practical applications. If you are up for review at work, this is an excellent cosmic tool for you to talk your accomplishments up. Don’t be shy now Aries! Your 5 lucky numbers this week are: 1, 12, 23, 20 & 37 Taurus (Apr 20-May 20) - This week the last New Moon of the year shines on your 8th house of joint resources and intimacy. Sorting out any and all money issues between you and your other half is important before the holidays really kick in. It’s not all about how much money some-one spends on you – it really is the thought that matters. Your 5 lucky numbers this week are: 8, 19, 25, 31 & 39 Gemini (May 21-June 20) - A New Moon shines in your opposite sign of Sagittarius, your relationship zone on Friday to remind us that it’s that time of the month to begin anew and that the next 2 weeks are a period of growth. If you’re out having fun this weekend, be careful that you don’t go so far out of bounds that you won’t be able to find your way home. Your 5 lucky numbers this week are: 1, 10, 15, 20 & 22 Cancer (June 21-July 22) - Communications king Mercury sets up his creative writing workshop in Capricorn, your one on one relationship zone midweek. Capricorns are realistic rather than pessimistic, and this is how many of you need to be regarding your most sacred relationships. A New Moon in your 6th house of health, wellbeing and hard work this week is also a boon to those of you who have been putting in some hard in the office/gym or steering clear of the junk food at parties. Your 5 lucky numbers this week are: 6, 13, 24, 29 & 31

Leo (July 23-Aug 22) - This week, the final New Moon of 2015 shines in Sagittarius, your fellow fire sign and 5th house of romance, self–fulfillment and creativity. This New Moon squares with Jupiter, the largest planet in the zodiac, indicat-ing that going ‘all out’ might not be the best idea. If you find yourself slightly out of control over the weekend, pull back. You don’t want to use up all your holiday cheer in one night, right? Your 5 lucky numbers this week are: 7, 13, 24, 27 & 33 Virgo (Aug 23-Sept 22) - Your ruler Mercury, the planet of conversation and communication moves into Capricorn this week. For the next 3 weeks, Mercury transmits your romance and fun zone. Single? Capricorns are great matches for you. Later in the week the last New Moon of the year shines on your domestic zone. You may get a phone call or email tell-ing you that you’re the go to person/home for the holidays. Your 5 lucky numbers this week are: 4, 12, 20, 26 & 33

Libra (Sept 23-Oct 22) - Home and family matters that may need to be talked through this week will actually be easier to sort out than you may have first thought. Luckily for you, Mercury the wordster, is setting up his chit chat corner in your 4th house of home and family where he stays into the New Year. With a New Moon shining on your 3rd house of communication, siblings and neighbors, this is the perfect time to plan a holiday soiree the way you like to plan things. Keep in mind that Venus and Mars in your sign will bring out your extravagant side. Watch your budget. Your 5 lucky numbers this week are: 3, 13, 23, 28 & 37 Scorpio (Oct 23-Nov 21) - In your 3rd house of communication, siblings and learning, Mercury shifts gears and some of you may find yourselves booking last minute trips or deciding to spend the holidays with family while your other half spends the hol-idays with his family. If you are hoping for good news about a pay raise or promotion, you just might get it in the next fortnight. Your 5 lucky numbers this week are: 8, 12, 20, 27 & 34

Sagittarius (Nov 22-Dec 21) - The final New Moon of the year is in your sign – your 1st house of ego and personality. It’s a wonderful way to end 2015 for you, especially with Jupiter your ruler and the planet of good luck and opportunity squaring up. This indicates that your wild side really wants to come out and play this weekend. How much of a good thing is too much? You will find yourself being a lot more careful with your hard earned money. Much to the horror of your kids, friends, and family who have come to love your generous and pricey gifts! Your 5 lucky numbers this week are: 6, 10, 29, 32 & 44 Capricorn (Dec 22- Jan 19) - Wordsmith Mercury moves into your sign midweek. Although some would describe you as realistic rather than pessimistic, most of these people are born under the sign of Capricorn! The next 3 weeks are a time when communications take a no–nonsense approach and thought patterns become more logical, with the focus on being prac-tical. Your 5 lucky numbers this week are: 9, 13, 21, 26 & 33 Aquarius (Jan 20- Feb 19) - This week’s New Moon, the last one of the year shines in your 11th house of hopes, wishes and friendship which makes the holiday season even more seasonal! You will find more invites in your inbox than spam over the next few weeks. With the New Moon squaring up with good luck Jupiter in your 8th house of joint resources, a wonderful investment opportunity with a friend could come out of the blue. Don’t think about it too long! Your 5 lucky numbers this week are: 6, 19, 24, 30 & 39 Pisces (Feb 12- Mar 20) - Your 11th house of hopes, wishes and friendship gets a 3 week visit from Mercury, the planet of communication and clear thinking, starting Wednesday. Later in the week, the last New Moon of the year lights up your 10th house of career and ambition, giving you a green light to ask for that promotion, pay rise or overseas transfer at the last minute before your boss has a chance to say “no”! Your 5 lucky numbers this week are: 2, 12, 29, 31 & 40 (Source: http://m.psychicguild.com/Weekly-Horoscope)

Comic submitted by soph. Daniel Parker