Monthly Archives: December 2011
Basketball at its Best
By: Alex Wallner Sports Editor
With the season progressing forward, both the girl and boy basketball teams at Centennial are making great strides in their very young season. The boys, who came off a victory against Mattoon High School on December 9th, are looking to rebound from a very slow start. Finishing second to last in the annual Lincoln Holiday Tournament, the Chargers will look to regain their form against conference foe, Urbana on December 16th, a non conference game against Thornton Township High School on December 17th and the also annual, State Farm Classic, which begins on December 27th and runs through December 30th. The games will be held at the Illinois Wesleyan Shirk Center at 6:00, with the Chargers playing the Mesa, AZ Jackrabbits. December is a crucial month for the Chargers, testing to see how they can do against other schools out of conference and those that the team might have to face come playoff time.
The Lady Chargers are a much different story though, as the team, who hadn’t lost a single starter from last year’s regional championship team, are off to a hot start. The undefeated Lady Chargers opened the season on a good note, winning the Blue Star Classic, which the Lady Chargers had won the previous season and cruised with wins over Danville, in the Blue Star championship game, Decatur Eisenhower, and Mattoon in previous outings. The Lady Chargers are extremely competitive and undoubtedly the favorites to win the conference early on in the season. With an outstanding junior class, which features, Katelynn Martinez, Chantal Meacham, and the reigning Big 12 player of the year, Chelsea Cross, the Lady Chargers are not only looking to win the conference, but go even deeper when March comes around.
Both squads are deep and young, making both of them threats to do damage not only in the conference, but out of conference as well. On the boy’s side, with the returning Devin Carter, the Chargers will be looking to get a much needed boost from someone who can play three out of the five positions on the floor, something that the team hasn’t had since the Rayvonte Rice days. The team is very young, but has a lot of experience as well. With a senior class that includes the mentioned Devin Carter, Taylen Alexander, and Austin Judy, who gives a much needed spark off the bench. Also with the mix of other younger players, such as Phillip ‘Bam’ Wright, Michael Finke, and Dustin Walls, the Chargers have a lot of confidence going into the conference season. By taking one step at a time, they can achieve that goal of winning another conference championship.
When asked if the team would progress over the young season, sophomore, Finke said, “Yes, with out a doubt we will. We are young but we have a lot of skill and potential. I’m looking forward to see how good we will get and compete.” Confidence is the most important thing to have when you are trying to compete for something as big as a conference championship in a conference with a great amount of talent. Finke was then asked how could the team do against the talent of Normal Community, the favorite to win the conference and Central by replying, “We will compete with Central. It should be a really good game. Every year the games between us and them are always close no matter what the record is of both teams. Also, Normal should be a great game as well. I don’t really know much about them, but from what I have heard they will be a pretty tough opponent.” Also crucial for any team in that to be great, you have to beat the good teams. Finally, Finke was asked if the team had a chance to win the conference, by which he responded, “Yes I do. We just have to keep working hard and we will see what happens.” The confidence to be a good team and the confidence to know that you can win are important for any successful program, especially at Centennial.
Ho Ho Holiday Break
We asked Centennial students a few questions about Santa Claus and holiday break.
How old were you when you found out that Santa Claus was not real?
5 years old 6 years old 7 years old 8 years old
I IIII IIII IIII II IIII IIIIIII
9 years old 10 years old 11 years old 15 years old
IIII IIII IIII II II I
Are you going to tell your kids that Santa isn’t real? Or will you let them find out on their own?
Let them find out Tell my kids
IIII IIII IIII IIII IIII IIII IIII IIII IIII
Here are some popular vacation spots for break:
Florida, Chicago, Indiana, California, Mississippi, Wisconsin Dells, Arizona, North Carolina, Tennessee, & St. Louis
Resolve to Keep Your Resolutions!
By Lexi Zahrn – Staff Writer
With the holidays less than a week away and the question of snow in the chilly air, it is clear that the calendar year is coming to a close. With that in mind it is time to reflect on the past year and partake in the tradition of New Year’s resolutions. This tradition dates back to 153 B.C.E and a minor Roman god known as Janus. The month of January gets its name from this two-faced god. His image was often placed at the beginning of a calendar because with one face he could look at the past, and with the other: the future. Thought often seen tricking unlucky demigods throughout mythology, this god was actually the patron of foresight.
History lessons aside, this reporter went around asking a few of Centennial’s students and alumni what their New Year’s Resolutions are for 2012. It might be the end of the world, but goals are still important no matter how small they may be. Matthew Rooney, from the ‘Hipster Paradox’ says, “I want to grow a beard.” Meanwhile alumni Thomas Polk says, “I’m going to work harder in school.”
Polk is not alone in his ambition. Many of Centennial’s seniors are suffering from a dangerous case of ‘senioritis’ and could use some motivation to try harder in school. Senior Akshay Krishnamani has had the same resolution for two years, that being, “to focus more on school.” Both of these young men have the right idea; just because the second semester is code for ‘second chance,’ it is still important to give some effort. Colleges still look at grades past acceptance. Mary Hong will keep her grades going at a stellar level so she can, “…pick the right college to attend.”
Along with scholastic goals, New Year’s resolutions include, “[making] varsity in soccer,” for Madison White. Arie Polycarpou has a fun resolution to, “to go on a big international road trip with friends.” Whether its playing soccer on Centennial’s fields or a sunny beach in Barbados, both goals sound more plausible than Samuel Hall’s, “I [want to] be married and have 100 kids so I can have 100 friends, and no one can say no to being my friend.” He is kidding of course, but just in case, ladies, look out!
Health is always a favorite theme for New Year’s resolutions. Grace Ayodele claims that she would like to, “eat less candy and not be so lazy.” According to author Stephen M. Shapiro, forty-five percent of Americans set New Year’s resolutions, and of that forty-five percent, forty-seven percent of the resolutions pertain to self-improvement. Shapiro also says, “Only eight percent of people are always successful in achieving their resolutions.” Hopefully Grace is part of this eight percent, as well as her classmates.
Senior Nick Bates might possibly have the best resolution, that being, “to become a superhero.” Bates is definitely the kind of young man one would expect to see helping the less fortunate and saving the world one strange music album at a time. His more ambitious resolution is something that might take all 365 days to accomplish, but if he sets his mind to it maybe he can become a superhero. A lot can happen in a year, so it is best to start planning now Centennial.
What is your New Year’s Resolution? Post it in our comments section.
The Perfect Gift Different for Everyone
By: Will James Staff Writer
Birthdays, Christmas, and other holidays make December the ideal month for gift giving. Every person has that special gift that they receive in their lifetime that is hard to forget. Here some Centennial students and faculty members try to recall some of the most memorable gifts they had ever received.
Mason W: Red Bike at 8
Nick B: Shaw Shank redemption poster
Taylor C: iPod Touch
Bailey K: Mac Laptop
Alle R: Yorkie Puppy
Sara R: Pool Table
Bret Q: Dell Computer
Mckenzie B: Barbie Malibu Jeep
Alexis N: Barbie Roller Blades
Holly B: Razor Scooter
Annie R: Going to Disney World
Taylor S: Tiffany Necklace
Dustin W: Xbox 360
Audrey R: Pearls
Libby C: Purple Bike (seven speed)
Cori B: Cash register
Ryan H: “Gift of Love from my parents”
Soraya D 
et Bunny
Jada C: iPod Touch
Kara D: iPod Touch
Ary P: Kara’s Friendship
Arielle Z: Nice Camera
Will H: Gameboy Color
Nicole S: Barbie Bike
Hannah H: American Girl Doll
Artium K: Mario Cart
Peter Black: Packers Uniform
Michele C: Trip to Cast Away Club
Jeff Lavin: Sisters
Darren W: Flat Screen TV
Mr. Sikora: First ten speed bike at age 12
Jill T: Barbie Dream House at age 6
Mr. Easter: Classic Edition St. Louis powder blue Ozzie Smith Jersey
Gabe O: African Fighting Dogs
Meriah P: Kozak Camera
Eddie R: Fleece Jacket
Kolt S: 142” Flat Screen TV
Carli W: Mini XP Computer
Colin P: Mid-calf Socks with no Logos
Archie W: Katrina Lindsey
Rachel S: ESV translated study Bible
Brent A: Original Playstaion
Coach J: iPad
In this list the presents range from posters to people showing that every person has a different idea on what makes a gift memorable. Hopefully this list brought back some of your own great memories. Maybe this year could be the year you receive or give that unforgettable gift.
Occupy Wall Street Protests Continue
By Abrar Al-Heeti – Staff Writer
With every passing day, the Occupy Wall Street movement is growing in strength, receiving more attention from those who support and oppose it alike. In a struggle to have their voices heard, protesters have been demonstrating against social and economic inequality, high unemployment, corruption and the influence corporations have on government.
After becoming fed-up with the continually increasing difference in wealth between the richest 1% of Americans and the remainder of the population, the activist group began the demonstrations in New York City’s Wall Street financial district, adopting “We are the 99%” as their slogan, which refers to the plight of the average American. Wall Street was chosen as the destination for the protests because of its role in causing the 2008 economic crisis which led to the Great Recession; protesters claim that the lending of mortgage-backed securities that were in fact proved to be worthless brought on the crisis, and Wall Street abused the credit default swap market. The movement also expresses hostility towards the government bailout, claiming it established a sense of ownership, overstepping the roles of the supposedly independent sectors of business and government.
The goals of those participating in the movement include a more equal distribution of income, more jobs, bank reform, and less influence on politics from corporations.
Some criticize that the movement has no unified motive, and that each demonstrator has a different goal and reason for protesting. But despite this lack of agreement, some feel as Greg Stock does when he says, “I think it’s interesting that people are to the point where they’re fed up enough to hit the streets.” It is the fact that people are reacting, regardless of the varying reasons, that has caught worldwide attention. When Stock was asked if he believed the movement would bring any change, he answered, “No,” but added, “I think it brings awareness. This problem has existed, but no one has acted upon it.”
An aspect of the movement that has received a lot of attention is the aggression between cops and protesters. The police’s use of pepper spray and their practice of beating rowdy protesters has sent shockwaves across the country. Many believe that by committing these actions, cops are violating the protesters’ First Amendment right of freedom of speech.
Support for the movement is widespread. Like many Americans, Stock says, “I share their concerns.” They hope Occupy Wall Street will bring positive change in the way money and politics are handled.
But, as with all other movements, there are those who disapprove of Occupy Wall Street. Some see it as too liberal and a threat to America’s free market capitalism, in which they see no flaw. They believe the change protesters are fighting for will not in fact improve the economy or the situation many jobless Americans find themselves in.
As the movement grows, Occupy Wall Street will continue to receive the attention of those who support, oppose and are neutral to the cause. Whether or not it will bring any change remains, for the time being, a mystery.
Girl’s Athlete of the Month (December): Stacia Simmons (Girls Basketball)
By: Chantal Meacham Staff Writer
Athlete of the Month – December
Stacia Simmons (Girls Basketball)
Stacia is a junior guard on the undefeated girls basketball team. They are 10-0 and won the Blue Star Country Classic at the beginning of their season. Stacia made the News Gazette’s All-Area First Team during the 2010-2011 season. When she graduates, she hopes to play basketball in college somewhere close to home.
What is your favorite memory of the season so far?
- Our team surprised Coach Thomas with a memorial band of her father who died of cancer 3 months ago.
When did you start playing basketball?
- In the 3rd grade
Who is your favorite athlete?
- Derrick Rose
If you could go anywhere in the world, where would you go?
- Paris, France
What is your favorite food?
- Spaghetti
Who is the funniest on the team?
- Tie between Chelsea Cross and Katelynn Martinez
Where was your last vacation to?
- Las Vegas
Who is your favorite artist?
- Trey Songz
Who is your dream date?
- Derrick Rose
Gender Equality Still Up for Debate
By Faith Middleton – Staff Writer
Girls are told from a young age that they can do anything boys can do. But can they? Are females and males afforded equal opportunities at home, school and work?
In the roots of society, women usually had few rights. Literature from Greek culture portrays powerful women as a threat to society. However, the world has made progress in gender equality since then. There are women on every level of authority: every level but one.
The lack of a female U.S president thus far sheds light on the true temperament of America regarding gender. World leaders, law makers and professionals claim that women and men are on equal footing. Why, then, do citizens and senate continue to elect male presidents and vice presidents?
It would seem as though it is mostly voters who are stuck in the past regarding selection of leaders. Some leaders, such as United States Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton, push for women’s rights and the equality of genders.
In a closed forum in Washington on December 3, Clinton criticized Israel for its treatment of women. She was astonished at the fact that women must sit at the back of buses in some places. Her beliefs were that the prejudice Israel projects against women is a threat to Israeli democracy. Israel ‘s Environmental Protection Minister Gilad Erdan believed that the government should take action to ensure the equality of men and women.
Many corporations and unions have taken steps to close the gap of pay between men and women of the same profession. However, the gap remains in other professions. The median earnings of women in the United States were 77.4% of the median earnings of men in 2010. The gender pay gap is steadily closing, but it is still there.
“The fact that wage disparity still exists suggests that equal opportunities for men and women are not available,” Charles Weinberg, Centennial English teacher, said.
The gender wage gap is a result of the traditional “Male-breadwinner” belief. While a man went to work and made a living for his family, the woman stayed home and took care of the children. As the sole provider for the family, men were paid more.
On the other hand, a scramble for correcting past errors may be giving women leverage over men. After all, girls in school have some opportunities that boys do not have.
“Boys can’t play Volleyball,” Fernanda Schaefer, Centennial Sophomore, said. “In Brazil, boys could play Volleyball [on a school team] so there aren’t equal opportunities [in school for girls and boys].”
Some may argue that the policy “separate but equal” goes for gender in the school system. Once they hit a certain age, children lose interest in certain things and generally focus on more gender-oriented activities and subjects. For example, most boys are not interested in Cheerleading. Girls are seldom interested in Football. Girls of this age are steered to performing while boys tend to be allowed to ”play rough”.
Whether there are equal or unequal opportunities for the two genders in the present, it is up to the next generation to determine whether this will change.
December Athlete of the Month: Phillip ‘Bam’ Wright (Boys Basketball)
By: Chelsea Cross Staff Writer
Athlete of the month:
Phillip Wright (Boys Basketball)
Phillip Wright mostly known as Bam, has been the Junior starter for the Chargers. The game againist Decatur Eisenhower Phillip Wright came off the bench scoring 11 points and grabbing 8 rebounds. Phillip is the fire that keeps the Chargers going. Wright is also dominating his books he’s in all honors classes, and he’s taking a College preparation class known as Avid.
Name your favorite part of the season?
“ When we played a ranked team in the state named Chicago Curie, and I got to play in front of Bruce Weber.”
Who was your biggest inspiration growing up?
“My Uncle PJ because he always wished the best for me”
If you could play one on one with any player alive, or dead who would it be?
“Carmelo Anthony, because he’s the smoothest player in the NBA.”
What’s your pregame ritual?
1) “Me, Devin Carter & Julian Brown always play around/ rap, and play fight”
2) “listen to my music
3) “zone out,game time”
What song pumps you up the most before you play?
“Pimp C by 2 Chainz”
Finish the sentence….
If I could go anywhere it would be…
“Brazil”
My dream date is….
“Alicia Keys”
My favorite color is…
“Blue”
November Athlete of the Month: Michael Finke (Boy’s Basketball)
By: Chelsea Cross Staff Writer
Athlete of the Month:
Michael Finke (Boy’s Basketball)
Michael Finke is a sophomore starting on Varsity Boys Basketball, this is his first year. In the last game against Cahokia Wirth Michael Finke scored a game high of 20 points. Not only is he a talented athlete, but he’s also a member of Student Council and is on the Honor Roll.
If you could describe yourself in 3 words what would they be?
“I’m Very Tall”
Who was your role model growing up, and why?
“My dad because he plays the same sport as me, and I can learn from his mistakes”
What is your biggest accomplishment in your sports?
“Playing Varsity as a sophomore”
What is your biggest phobia?
“Death of a family member”
Finish the sentence……
My favorite food is…
“Steak”
If I could go anywhere it would be…
“Atlanta, Georgia”
My favorite color is….
“Blue”
If I could go on a date with anybody it would be….
“Jessica Alba”
