Category: Opinion

EDITORIAL: We just want to talk…

Staff Editorial:

The National Rifle Association (NRA) is a non-profit, pro-gun organization that was founded back in 1871, and has been pushing for the upholding of the Second Amendment ever since.

But, after the last 10 years of gun violence, particularly at the high school and college level, they’ve faced criticism — not for upholding the the Second Amendment of the Constitution, but for not listening to the cries of protesters calling out for a change after multiple school shootings.

Still, one month later,nobody is listening.

Here at the Hyphen, we make it a priority to open lines of communication to every party, especially when talking about such heated issues such as our country’s gun laws.

But in attempting to do so, we were shut down.

After multiple attempts to contact the NRA for their thoughts on the recent school attacks, no feedback was received. Even our advisor, Mr. Wes Scott, reached out to them to no avail.

So we tried local.

Gold & Guns, a jewelry and gun shop located a half-mile away from Jeffersonville High School, denied to comment as well. (Might we add the scariest part: they did not even ask our high school journalists for any type of identification as we walked in, despite the Indiana law stating only those 21 and up can purchase handguns.)

The Liberty Belles Women’s Gun Club, an NRA-sponsored club located in Clarksville, did not comment after multiple phone calls and emails sent out to them, as well. The Hyphen failed to get a SINGLE comment back from three different locations about what should be done in the future, and what safety concerns we, as high school students, have.

Why doesn’t anyone want to talk about it? Why are we taught for 12 years to talk through our issues, but get doors slammed on us when questioning a company about something that could be potentially so life and death with students?

Unfortunately, we think it’s simple: they don’t want kids to be the reason their guns are taken away.

The fact of the matter is nobody wants to talk about a subject where kids are the victims, and student safety is the main concern. But it’s also a touchy subject, especially when Constitutional rights are being discussed.

As difficult as it might be for store owners, politicians and other adults to go through, it’s a discussion that needs to happen. And it needs to happen now.

In the end, each student and staff member of every high school nationwide can probably come to an agreement that during their eight-hour day, they all want to feel safe.

As school shootings have now become more frequently reported in the news, it’s inevitable for students to want some type of change, so that themselves and their peers don’t become the next statistic.

But we can’t do that unless the lines of communication are open.

Whether or not this change is the banning of firearms, or perhaps even increasing them among trusted adults in schools, gun control is the phrase on everyone’s lips. Staying silent is not going to decrease the casualties.

It’s clear there is a problem.

When students at Jeffersonville High School feel hesitant to walk out into the halls when a fire alarm goes off, or when parents feel uneasy watching their kids leave to start their day, it’s clear there is a problem.

There are a myriad of changes that could be argued for improved school safety, and we understand that there are alternatives to taking away everyone’s firearms.

But how can these changes be made if we can’t even get the conversation started? Why are others arguing something that affects us?

We get it. We’re young. We make some dumb decisions sometimes. (Tide Pod Challenge, anyone?)

But we’re not naive. And we’re definitely not stupid.  

So in this issue of the Hyphen, we are making it a point to start the conversation. Listen to us; actually hear us. Involve us.

Change is happening, because the policies we have now simply aren’t sustainable.

It’s time to talk.

by cmolina

Opposing Views: Pro-Life and Pro-Choice Columns

Pro-Life

Abortion is wrong. Period.

The tough thing about a topic of this nature is the majority of people already have their minds made up.

That’s why I chose to explain to you why, based off of my Christian beliefs, I am pro-life, and fully against something as sickening as abortion.

Throughout the years growing up, I was taught that abortion is murder. To me, it’s taking the life of an innocent human being who is still growing in the mother’s womb.

Through reading the Bible and my strong beliefs in Christianity, I have learned that God knew me, he knew you, he knew everyone, before they were knit together in the mother’s womb (Psalm 139:13). There is a God who knew everything about you before you were born, and I feel this is tough for people to comprehend, especially those in favor of pro-choice.

Many pro-choice supporters would believe that, “If God knew, why didn’t he stop it when he could have?” All I can tell you is this leads back to the sinful, wicked nature of the world we live in.

But I have hope through Jesus Christ, and this led me to Choices Life Resource Center in New Albany, a place that many pro-choice supporters don’t know too much about. As I emailed with Mary Munford, a nurse at Choices, and toured the facility with Rose Condra, the director, I found out more about places like these.

There are locations like this all over the country, and they are places of compassion. The only pro-life supporters a pro-choice supporter sees is those who stand outside abortion clinics with signs. But as I toured Choices, I found a place of hope for the community.

Many woman face a difficult decision when they get pregnant. But I have learned that there are three options: Keep the child, put it up for adoption, or get an abortion. Two of these options keep this human life alive, and give it a chance at a future.

The third option takes that chance – that life – away.

As I continued to tour Choices, I walked into a room where ultrasounds happen, and felt this sense of peace. Ultrasounds are when a woman can hear their baby’s heartbeat. As I stood there, I learned of women who have walked in this room, saw this small heartbeat, and still chose an abortion. It’s sad.

Some pro-choice supporters might choose to say, “The fetus isn’t really a human being.”

In reality, though, the term fetus is a Latin term, meaning “little one,” which is used to describe a stage of development, just like infant or adult. According to the law of biogenesis, a fetus conceived by human parents, and growing by means of the instructions in its own human genetic code, is by definition human.

Tim Tebow, Celine Dion, Jack Nicholson, Steve Jobs, Cher, and Justin Bieber. What do all the famous people on this list have in common? Their parents all contemplated aborting them during pregnancy. Imagine if Steve Jobs was never born, that amazing iPhone wouldn’t be what it is today. All of these celebrities that have impacted our world in some way or another, so try to imagine how different our world would be without them.

Pro-choice supporters use rape cases to back-up their reasoning for being in favor of abortions. A study from January 2017 called A New Perspective on Human Abortions showed that approximately 70-percent of rape victims chose to give birth to their babies.

A family friend of mine wouldn’t be with us today if his mother had chose to abort him after being taken advantage of. Not only did she choose life, but she chose to put him up for adoption.

Many women choose to get an abortion because they feel like they’re not in a stable place to have the kid. This may be because the father is gone, or they don’t feel they have the financial support.

But Choices is a place of hope for families. A place where Condra and Munford help those families with clothing, diapers, bottles, car seats and classes designed to help parents throughout parenthood, not just birth.

And that support leads to another option future mothers and fathers can make: adoption. Adoption is a way for a mother to give her baby to a stable family, which is never a bad option. In today’s world we live in, adoption agencies allow the mother to be a part of the child’s life still.

I know many families that adopt and tell of the miraculous stories of how their child has changed their life. And if the mother had chosen to abort the baby, the lives of these families wouldn’t have been changed, and there would be yet another victim to an abortion.

Based off of my morals and belief in Christianity, I believe that pro-life is the only way to go.

Abortion is murder. Abortion is wrong. Think of how that child could one day change the world.

Pro-Choice

January 22, 1973: Roe Vs. Wade

In a 7-2 decision, the Supreme Court legalized the ability for a woman to have an abortion under the 14th Amendment of the Constitution.

Despite this happening almost 45 years ago, this Supreme Court decision is still being fought today, despite the fact that a woman’s body is her own.

Why? Because many claim that abortion is killing babies.

Which it is not.

Before you put this article down with disgust, hear me out. I wish no one had to get an abortion; I imagine it’s a traumatic experience. And it’s true that this kills a living being, and this greatly saddens me.

But what I am simply trying to do is get both men and women to think not of themselves, their circumstances and beliefs, but rather other people. I have never been pregnant, nor had an abortion, but I am trying to think of women in all situations.

No woman wants to have an abortion. Most feel they don’t have any other option; many seeking abortions aren’t financially stable enough to have a baby or afford a pregnancy. Some women cannot go through a pregnancy for their own health reasons; others are victims of rape and incest.

This is why Roe vs. Wade exists — not because “atheists” or “liberals” want to kill babies, but because women deserve to make their own decisions.

Why does the government get to control women’s bodies, and make this decision for women they’ve never met? Furthermore, why do the men in the government get to control the bodies of women they’ve never met?

It should be the choice of a woman, because it’s her body. Hers. Not Paul Ryan’s, not Mitch McConnell’s, and not Donald Trump’s.

Hers.

President Trump, a man who has been accused by multiple women of sexual assault, has taken away a law the Obama Administration passed that says the workplace must provide birth control for women. If the Republicans are so worried about women getting abortions, why are they increasing the likelihood that women will get pregnant? Furthermore, why are women being punished just for the fact that they can get pregnant?

Illegalizing abortion doesn’t make it go away; it means women go to less-equipped places, which increases the likelihood that the mother is killed.

In a recent article by CNN, Marcie Crim, executive director of the Kentucky Health Justice Network, quoted a 16-year old she’d talked to who was denied an abortion in Kentucky due to being nearly 23 weeks pregnant. The girl reportedly said, “Fine, I’ll just do it myself. I’ve looked it up online. I can do it myself.”

Crim helped the girl get an abortion, but this is just one example of how desperate some of these women are.

There’s a 10-year-old girl in India who was raped, and recently gave birth to a baby. India’s Supreme Court refused to allow her an abortion, and this girl, who is younger than the high schoolers reading this article, is now a mother. Can you imagine being a parent, and the physical trauma of being pregnant … at 10 years old? This is an example of a situation that Roe vs. Wade prevents.

Abortion is not only a national topic, but an issue right across the Ohio River. Go into downtown Louisville and find a place called EMW Women’s Surgical Center. This is the last place in the entire state of Kentucky that performs abortions, and protesters are crowded around it every day, showing pictures of bloodied babies, and posters claiming it’s a sin.

This brings up my final point: abortion is too closely tied to religion.

Most of the Republican party is comprised of white, Christian males, which doesn’t represent every American. America is a country that prides itself on diversity, and the right to separation of church and state. Not everyone in this country is religious, and our ability to choose is a Constitutional right we are lucky to have.

That’s why it is not fair when others make someone feel bad for their choices, much like the people that crowd the front of abortion centers. As I said, no woman wants to have an abortion, and she doesn’t deserve to be shamed for her choice. It’s the right of Americans to protest, but think how you would feel, if someone told you that you were going to Hell for your choice to have an abortion.

Protesters have even assaulted people escorting women to the center. Emory Williamson, a volunteer escort, told CNN that he’s had his feet stomped on by protesters so many times that he’s had to buy steel-toe Timberland boots.

How is that okay? To cite God as your reason for protesting, but to assault an innocent man?

Williamson told CNN, “The Jesus I grew up with would be walking with the client. I grew up knowing that Jesus was about compassion and love and understanding. He was willing to be with those who might be dealing with hardships in life–and being able to always walk beside them.”

Americans have the right to their own opinion, but the next time you think about abortion, I implore you, put yourself in the mind of someone else.

Think about what you would do if you were in this situation. Think of the millions of women around the globe. Think of a woman you know and love.
Just don’t think of only yourself.

by kylesanders5308

Commentary: A Man’s Interpretation of Feminisim

Story by Tristan Jackson

On Aug. 18, 1920, the 19th Amendment of the United States Constitution was ratified, which made it illegal to prevent a person from voting because of their gender.

The decision marked one of the high points of the feminist movement, which had been around since the first Women’s Conference, which was held in 1848 in Seneca Falls, NY.

However now, the movement is a shell of its former self, based around blaming men for every obstacle a woman faces, and assuming men have somehow collaborated to oppress women.

Rape culture, pay gap, and blindness to the oppression of women of other cultures and religions all exemplify the ignorance of some who call themselves “feminists”.

In all fairness, there are plenty of people who fight for women’s rights without putting others down. I applaud those people.

Unfortunately for them, they are overshadowed by the ignorant, man-bashing feminists who don’t know what they’re fighting for.

The “rape culture” modern feminism made up does not exist.

Rape is illegal. The majority of people who have never sexually assaulted anyone in their life know it is not okay. Even if it was real — which it isn’t — women would be a part of it, because women can rape men, just as easily as a man can rape a women.

In Somaliland, the country recently passed its first law outlawing rape. Before then, women were forced to marry their rapist.

That’s a rape culture, and it’s disrespectful for feminists in the U.S. to compare their situation to that of the women in Somaliland, or the many other countries where women are treated as second-class citizens.

” The point I’m trying to make is blaming men for every problem women face is not an effective, or reasonable method.”- Tristan Jackson

Social media has magnified the nonsense of modern feminism.

In America, women are glorified for dressing up as the female reproductive system to try and prove a point that has absolutely no context. But somehow, an Iranian woman is making no headlines for taking off her hijab as a method of protest against the tyrannical government that requires her to wear the headdress.

Rather than fighting for these women, feminists disrespect women like her, and the religion as a whole by wearing hijabs to prove a point.  

If the feminist movement was really for the equality of all women, then there would be an uproar over this woman’s incarceration. To me, that’s a protest — not complaining about unsolvable problems that don’t require any work to protest, just a few taps of a finger to compose a tweet.

Twitter has given the ignorant feminists a voice, and they make sure to use it. A point twitter feminists have tired to make is that a woman makes less than a man for equal work. The only thing I can say about that is I’ll believe it when I see sufficient evidence or experience it myself.

If you cite statistics on this matter, you lose a lot of credibility when you use biased “facts” from Liberal media organizations.

As a man in the workforce, I can say for certain that I made the same as every man and woman for doing the same job. I think if there is any discrepancy in pay within a company, it’s based off work ethic, dependability, and qualification — not gender.  

Believe it or not, I have no intention to bash women for what they believe. If your goal is to fight for equality, go for it. The point I’m trying to make is blaming men for every problem women face is not an effective, or reasonable method.

I also don’t buy into the myth that men face absolutely no sexism, and I think custody battles are a good exemplification of a way men are unfairly treated in our society.

Women are given custody of children over five times as much as men during disputes. This is because women are believed to be better caretakers by the courts — which can be debated — and I personally believe it’s true, women in my eyes are typically, but not always, but caretakers.

I am all for doing what’s right for a child when their parents become divorced, I just don’t legitimately believe living with the mother is the right choice over 80-percent of the time.

That, along with the man-bashing that modern feminism does, are the main problems I have with the movement. You can’t be for equality if you turn your back on sexism, or ignore the fact that it goes both ways.

Until modern feminists realize this, I won’t view it as a legitimate movement. I’m all for equality for every person in this country, but I have major problems with the way they are fought for.

by cmolina

Stephen King — the father of modern thrillers

story by Lisa Morris

Mystery, thriller, suspense, horror.

These words may seem simple to the regular reader’s eye, but they are what define the writer who has mastered them all: Stephen King. King has written over 90 books in his career including IT, The Dark Tower series, Carrie, The Shining, The Green Mile, and many more.

From 1973 when King sold his first novel, Carrie, unto today, King’s stories have caught society’s eyes, as well as their screams, through the many movie and TV adaptations of his intensifying stories. As time has passed, though, the stories and movie adaptations have slowly quieted down.

However, movie theaters across the US have come back with new movie adaptations of IT and The Dark Tower, which opened Sept. 8 for IT and July 31 for The Dark Tower in theaters across the US.

With the new visuals for his books, King has awakened a new excitement for horror in society.

“I think Stephen King is very strong at the phanatic stuff, like the deep, ancestral feeling when you see blood or certain types of demons,” English teacher James Kimbell said. “It’s things that we all have in our culture or in our genes.”

In the world of literature, details are extremely primitive. One of the many aspects of King’s writings are his explicit detailing in the smallest situations, in which fans from many ages and backgrounds have grown to love.

As readers peruse his books, one can feel the eeriness of the cold wind blowing while walking through the depths of an old cemetery, or perhaps hear the old children’s music as they hide from from the killer doll that is grasping a knife to attack. The feelings of horror, and thrill, is what drives people to his books, especially the youth of society.

“The thing I find interesting is I love mysteries. Those are some of the biggest mysteries. I wonder if he’s the best horror mystery writer,” said sophomore Raven Andrews.

In addition to details, the thrill readers experience from King’s books are like no other. Hearts beat faster and faster as readers frantically turn through each page is a feeling that youth never forget.

Timeless classics, like Carrie and 11/22/63, are being turned into new hit movies. The hype from the new generation of horror fans have expressed their excitement for the new IT movie and The Dark Tower. With all this fame and success that is growing amongst youth, most people aren’t aware how King got his fame, or even what he was before he obtained it.

“He was an English teacher,” said fellow English teacher Jeff Cox. “He did what most of us English teachers always have in the back of our mind, that someday we’re going to do; that we’re going to write a book and we’re going to get rich and famous, and we’re going to do that thing. Well, he did it.”

Because of his experience in the teaching field, King’s books have grown and developed into much more than just words on a page. They have become a reality on the big screen in which people of all ages can experience.

Through his writings and through his books, he has become one of, if not the, greatest American horror author. Through his determination, crazy and insane stories, King has officially captivated the world’s attention and respect… as well as their terrified screams.

by lisamorrisnews

Tully and Treat’s high school survival tips

Q: With the varying social issues going on around the United States today, I find it difficult to educate myself objectively. I want to be active in my beliefs, while keeping an opinion without offending other people. What should I do?

Emily’s Answer:

I think it’s very important to be educated on what is going on around us today — in many ways — whether that be social, political, etc. The first step is to become fully aware and to see every side of a situation.

There is a lot of talk about “fake news” right now, which is a whole other topic in itself. But the point is, journalism from reliable sources is meant to give facts in an unbiased way. Though some sites are slightly biased, for example CNN in a liberal sense and Fox News in a conservative way, reading multiple outlets of the same story can get readers more of an understanding of events through both sets of views.

Afterwards, an opinion should be formed based on your moral values, and what you think is right — even if other people do not agree with it.

When it comes to not offending other people, I think the most effective thing to do is to actively listen to those affected by the situation.

For example, as a white person, I cannot decide what is offensive to people of color. But what I can do is listen, and try to sympathize with what they are saying and feeling about the current situations we are facing as a society. By doing so, I can learn how these situations are potentially harmful to those around me, even if I don’t see it or experience myself. You have to keep an open mind and realize that just because it’s not happening to you, doesn’t mean it’s not happening and that you shouldn’t care.

Personally, I think that remaining idle and silent is just as bad as perpetuating what you are idly watching.

“If you are neutral in situations of injustice, you have chosen the side of the oppressor.” – Desmond Tutu

Chloe’s Answer:

When you’re younger, it seems like our beliefs come from our parents, or any other adult figure in our lives. Now that we’re in high school, we can finally believe in what we want, and form our own opinions.

Recently there’s been an increased amount of social injustices, and it’s time for you, as a high schooler, or even an adult, to stand up for what is right. An example would be Charlottesville, Va. In the past few weeks, there have been violent protests, and three people killed from the unrest.

White supremacy is at its prime in our country, and sitting by watching it happen is just as bad as supporting it. As teenagers, we are the future leaders of this country, and no matter what you think, you can make a difference.

Whether it’s attending peaceful protests, or even shutting down racism you hear or see, you are making a difference. Once your form your own opinion and beliefs, you’ll soon realize that just thinking what everyone else thinks, isn’t the way to go.

Despite what everyone is saying, racism matters. The pigment of your skin in today’s world determines everything, when it shouldn’t. “Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.” – Martin Luther King Jr.

For more about this question, visit www.thehyphennews.com

 

by chloetreat

August Advice Column

story by Emily Tully and Chloe Treat

Q: I’m an incoming freshman and I’m intimidated by the size of the school, and the reputation it has for being such a scary place. Is it really like that? Was freshman year bad for you? How do you make new friends?

(Emily) A: I totally understand being intimidated, as I was more than a little scared to come into a school so big, especially having terrible social anxiety.

The first few days are very scary, in all honesty. For someone who’s shy or has heard the rumors about the school, walking into your first day can be petrifying. But you’ll come to find out that the rumors aren’t true, and after a while, being surrounded by so many people will become your new normal.

Try to make friends in all of your classes, and don’t be afraid to speak up, or reach out to someone you’d like to get to know. I spent way too much time being scared and anxious while I was an underclassman; those were the hardest years of high school for me. I let my anxiety hold me back from having fun and enjoying the little things that make the place not as scary. I let potential friendships pass by because I was too scared to put myself out there.

After learning to not overthink every social move, I was able to ask teachers questions in class, give presentations, and present ideas all without feeling like I was going to cry. Believe me, it’s easier said than done, but if you want to enjoy these next four years to the fullest, then try to breathe and remember that it’s high school and nothing to be scared of.

(Chloe) A: When I started freshman year at Jeffersonville High School, I had no friends — literally none. My first day was so bad I remember going home and crying to my parents about it. But as time went by, it got easier.

Once you get a routine down and get used to things, life in high school becomes just another thing. You’ll eventually make friends, maybe through a club or sport, or even in your classes.

On the social side of things, high school in general is one big test. It’s going to test you to stay true to yourself and your beliefs, and also see just how far you’re willing to go to “fit in”.

The best thing about Jeff High is that there is so much diversity, you can step into one building and be surrounded by every type of person. With high school comes finding yourself and deciding what you want to do for the rest of your life, as if being a teenager isn’t already hard enough.

For me, being a junior now means thinking about college and adulthood and that is terrifying. As a freshman, give everything 100-percent, because no matter what anyone says, the choices you make this year can determine the rest of your high school days.

Don’t over think and have as much fun as possible whilst still being yourself — not who everyone else wants you to be.

by Greta Reel

Best Spring Break Places

story by Tomi Clark

Commentary: These destinations will make your spring break a memorable and unforgettable one!

Fun in the Sun

Panama City, Fla.

We all know the stereotypical things said when pairing Panama with teenagers and spring break: partying and never-ending fun. It’s the destination to go if that’s what you seek.

Panama is complete with the picturesque scenery of crystal clear, aqua blue waters, glittering white sands, good surf and beaming bright light. It’s guaranteed to show visitors a good time.

Orange Beach (in Gulf Shore, Ala.)

Tall palm trees, an exquisite beach, lovely dining and a beautiful sunset of reds, oranges, and yellows — all of those qualities can be found in Orange Beach.

It’s chock-full of entertainment: from go-karting at midnight to breakfast in a quaint cafe near the shore.The views are indescribable — so much that to paint the view, one would need paints only full of vibrant blues, greens and yellows. (That is — if they wish to capture the full extent of the beach’s beauty.)

Clearwater, Fla.

Leisurely promenading down the pier before stopping to peruse all of the vendor’s stands, which sell exotic souvenirs. Then watching the tide from above as it rises and falls with ease.

Clearwater encompasses the undeniable beauty of genuine smiles, positivity and unstrained pleasantries. It’s complete with delightful places to shop, family friendly entertainment, astounding waters and beaches and a fantastic view that would astonish and leave breathless even the most experienced of coast travelers.

Fun Closer to Home

Gatlinburg / Pigeon Forge, Tenn. (Four hours and 40 minutes drive time)

If the beach isn’t your forte, then you’re in luck because Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge might be.

Mountains stretch in every direction and large puffy clouds slowly roll over, which leaves quite a sight. It’s perfect if you just want to get away for a few days — an escape to be among the trees, wild animal, and stars. Picture yourself hiking up and down the winding trails, through thick bushes and overgrown trees; hearing both small trickles of water through creeks and rushing rapids of numerous waterfalls.

Also, bear in mind that there was a fire, which happened a few months ago, which may factor into your decision about planning a trip.

French Lick / West Baden, Ind. (One hour and 15 minutes drive time)

Both destinations are grandiloquent and elegant.

French Lick and West Baden are only miles apart from each other, and both offer many of the same great amenities. An opulent lobby — made perfect to sit in for hours playing cards, drinking tea or simply chatting with those around you — breathes a great atmosphere. There are indoor and outdoor swimming pools to meet all your spring break desires, a spa, and numerous activities that will surely leave you yearning to stay longer.

Spend it with friends!

What’s better than saving money and hanging at home? If you answered nothing, then a staycation is perfect for you!

While you’re at home, you’re free to try new restaurants you might not have otherwise tried, shop the whole day, be lazy, go to concerts or games or spend it among friends and family.

 

Spring break is just around the corner: so what will be your choice of destination?  

by Tomi Clark

Broadway Louisville ‘Sound Of Music’ Review

Image result for broadway louisville sound of music
Program cover

The hills of Austria lite up the Whitney-hall theatre January 17th during the heavenly performance of the Sound of Music. A visually breath taking rendition of the 1960’s american classic set in the time of world war 2. A nun named Maria, sent to be the governess of 7 rambunctious children in the house of Captain Von trapp, while visiting he suddenly falls for the young naive and spirited nun after the loss of his wife.

Composed of household songs that even I wasn’t even aware originated from. Since i’m going on 17, This was my very first experience ever watching this show, and i’m incredibly lucky to get to see it reenvisioned on the Broadway stage. My Jaw dropped from the moment the curtain open as i’m consumed with the setting and lights effortlessly shifting and changing behind the characters, something a person wouldn’t be able to experience unless going to live theatre. It took me 5000 miles to the town of Salzburg before the nazi’s took over. In the beginning,

(with my lack of knowledge) the plot dragged in the beginning.

The music, like all Rodger & Hammerstein musicals, was extremely repetitive. It Wasn’t until halfway through act 1 when I was engrossed by the characters, that it hoo

Charlotte Maltby as Maria in the touring production
Photo of Maria (Charlotte Maltbly) from http://www.courier-journal.com

ked me. speaking of which. Each of those smalls kids probably had more talent in there left pinky than most could have after years of training. Some of my favorite things were the authenticity of the Maria, she was a comical sensation and such a lovable character, not  just writ
ten. But performed!  The relationship between baroness and Max left me in tears for multiple reasons. I highly recommend this for those like me who have no clue what it’s about, because it will definitely surprise you.

 

So long, farewell auf wiedersehen, adieu, to yieu and yieu and yieu.

by aleklongeditor

COLUMN: Jeffersonville and New Albany renew heated rivalry Friday night

Story and Photos by Phillip Steinmetz

Jeffersonville and New Albany play each other in basketball at Johnson Arena on Friday night. Is that a big enough statement for you to read further? It should be.

The two prominent programs meet for what looks to be another heated battle. New Albany “supposedly” leads the all-time series 81-76 after winning the last four matchups with some pretty lopsided victories (aka the Romeo Langford effect) but we’ll talk about that later.

The Red Devils sit currently at 7-3, coming off a third place finish in the Teddy Throckmorton Tournament, while New Albany is 8-2 after playing an excruciating schedule to begin with. Last time the Bulldogs played at JHS they won by 42 points (wow the Red Devils were bad then.) Don’t expect that type of outcome to play out this year.

Okay, I said I’d talk about “him” later and later is now (what a wait you had to experience).

ROMEO LANGFORD IS THE BEST HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL PLAYER OUT OF THE STATE OF INDIANA SINCE GREG ODEN.

This is the fourth time Langford will be facing the Red Devils — in the last matchup he had 24 points to go with 13 rebounds in the sectional championship. Oh yeah, he’s only a junior now and shot up all the way to second in ESPN’s Top 60 recruiting rankings.

How do you stop a player of his caliber from tearing your team to shreds? It’s simple, you don’t. There’s no way to hold him from scoring 25 or more points against a defense of Jeffersonville’s caliber. That means there are only a few ways the Red Devils can make this a respectable game throughout.

Not a single player other than Langford can score in double digits for New Albany.

That’s easier said than done considering the Bulldogs have two other outstanding scorers in Isaac Hibbard and Sean East who each provide matchup problems. Hibbard is the senior guard that can shoot lights out but can be a liability on defense at times but seems to never be rattled by the big moment. East is the starting point guard who can hit open three’s and might be the fastest player on the court. Jeffersonville will have their hands full with Langford but can’t forget to get a hand in the face of both of these players if they want success.

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Bailey Falkenstein fighting through CAI.

 

Bailey Falkenstein will be the second best player on the court.

The junior guard leads the Red Devils in scoring and is a prime candidate to score 20 or more points against the rival Bulldogs. Last season, in their regular season matchup he did score 25 points as a sophomore despite the ugly loss. Falkenstein is one of the strongest guards you’ll see step on the court and his play shows it. He’s at his best driving to the basket absorbing contact as he finishes the double clutch layup. Falkenstein is also known to drain a couple three’s a game to compliment. He will be leaned on even more Friday night to try to make Langford’s scoring total not look completely insane by scoring a ton himself.

Jeffersonville is at their best when they are hitting shots.

 

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Michael Minton with the jumpshot against Northeastern.

This could be said for every team but the Red Devils truly live and die by the three. In their win against CAI they went 9 for 13 from behind the arc and in their loss to Cathedral the same day, they only scored three points in the second quarter. Gerrin Moore, Joe LaGrange and Michael Minton will be looked on heavily to drain their open shots as the Bulldogs will dare Jeff to beat them from the outside. If a few shots fall early, we could have ourselves a shootout but if NA extends their defense and makes the Red Devils uncomfortable at the very beginning, the game could be over by halftime.

 

Freshman will need to step up for Red Devils.

 

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Tre’ Coleman fighting through Carroll County defenders.

Two freshman play big minutes for JHS as 5’8 Jacob Jones is the pestering point guard and 6’6 Tre’ Coleman comes off the bench as the defensive specialist. Jones will be tasked of keeping up with East but he’s frustrated guards all season and will need to carry more of a load offensively. Coleman might earn his first career start against NA because of how great a defender he really is. It’s almost impossible to get a shot off against him which he proved in the last couple of games blocking shots left and right. He’ll also be used to pound the glass which is a weakness for the Bulldogs. Both of these players will be looked upon to play well above their years for Jeff to have a chance Friday.

So, what will happen?

It’s a rivalry game, anything can happen. The Red Devils need to be hitting their shots early and often while forcing New Albany to shoot extremely deep shots for most of the game. Last game, NA went 1-22 from three against the 3rd ranked Logansport (Loganberries really?) and still dominated the game. Obviously they can beat you in other ways including their defense but I believe Jeff is one of the better offensive teams in the state.

Second year head coach Joe Luce will have his young Devils ready to play against the reigning state champions. This could become a game just like last year if Langford gets in foul trouble but I don’t think it’ll be much of one come the fourth quarter. I’m a Red Devil for life but I think the scoring and pure intimidation of this team will be the downfall for Jeff. Can they make this a close game? Of course they can with their scoring ability but Romeo Langford is still one of the best players in the COUNTRY and is almost impossible to beat without someone of his caliber playing for you.

PREDICTION: Jeffersonville 65 New Albany 78

 

by phillipsteinmetz

College Football Playoffs Should Not Expand

By Pat Duerr

 

The College Football Playoffs are less than a month away, and the top tier football teams have been rewarded for their outstanding seasons, given the chance to play for a National Championship.

But there will be teams left out that may feel the new college football system needs some change.

With the College Football Playoffs entering its third year, some flaws are clear to the public: the main one being that title contenders get left out. This fact leaves teams wanting an expansion to eight teams, which would include even more talented teams.

However this could mean cause chaos to not just football, but sports in general.

The College Football Playoffs already run into early January, keeping fans’ eyes on football when it’s already deep into basketball season. So making the playoffs run another week would cause more distraction.

Eight teams would also guarantee some colleges a spot weeks before the season ended, since a loss or two would not cause a big fall. An expansion would leave more room for error, and a championship team should be contenders all year long.

The current College Football Playoffs has its issues, and the ranking system may seem flawed at times, but an expansion is not the right idea, nor is it in the books anytime soon.

The four-team system is the best option for not only college football, but also the rest of winter sports.

by patduerr

Confessions of a high school fast food worker

Dear future customers,

From a high school fast food employee:

I work part-time, full time!

Don’t get me wrong — before you make any assumptions, I’m fully aware that fast food is easy. But understand (and just a heads up for next time you see me): I have someone barking orders through my headset, customers at the front counter asking me questions I can’t hear and drinks overflowing at the machine. Not to mention all of the food being shot out the kitchen in only God knows what order.

When I forget something like putting ice in your drink or a fork on your plate, it is not a personal attack on you.

It’s Human Error!

I’m sorry, but there’s no need to have that many special instructions. If you wanted a plain salad, why didn’t you order one? Don’t ask for my manager; he’s in the back smoking and I won’t be able to find him for 20 more minutes. You’re able to yell at me and blame me for something I didn’t even cook.

Tell me that this miniscule mistake has ruined your night, and make accusations . Have my drive-through time shoot up 12 mins and let the food for the four cars behind you get cold. “I’m sorry the wait was so long; it’s my fault the entire football team came to order before you.”

The customer is always right!

We do charge extra for that! We always have, so there should be no surprise when it isn’t free. Where are your utensils? They’re in the bag, but I’ll grab you more. The register declined your card, but I’ll try four more times.

You asked for no tomato, and the kitchen put tomatoes on it? I didn’t put the tomato on it. You don’t want us to check the boxes, but you’re upset when you drove away with the wrong order. We don’t have that anymore. Yes, our menu has changed. No, I don’t know when it’s coming back.

Minimum wage for maximum work

I’ve never been more conscious of how I treat a fast food place until after I’ve had to clean one. I’ve watched as salt shakers get poured all over tables, trays and bowls stacked ridiculously high over booths. Chairs and tables knocked over. A child’s puke down over and inside the seats. Lipstick smeared on the mirrors, and bathrooms left unrecognizable after a rush.

I was one of these people that never took a second thought that someone had to clean this up after me. But now I think, maybe I shouldn’t consciously destroy or mess up something just because it’s fast food.

The power of a tip

The majority DON’T give fast food employees tips, as that’s just how society works. We’re not the tier of people you feel bad for if you don’t tip, like hairdressers or bathroom attendants.

But on the small off chance we get someone’s change leftover or even a full dollar, we will rub it in our co-workers faces for a week. Our “fast food godmother” just gifted us with extra money to buy food on break. And man, on a day before payday,  it goes so much further than you would think.

Are you satisfied with your service?

In the end, from the time we clock in to the time we clock out and everything in between, we’re human. Even though some of us only work for four hours, our real jobs start at 7 a.m. Our mind set doesn’t begin with how we can take your order, but how we’re going to be able to pay for college.

Fast food is not a reason to berate someone else or spread negativity. It’s so small and irrelevant in comparison to real problems in the world. Do not be that person. An order can be fixed; someone’s day after being yelled at won’t be.

I hope you enjoy your day!

by aleklongeditor

Athlete of the Month-November

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By Tristan Jackson

Four sectional titles, four regional titles, and two trips to the state finals.

The recent success of the boys tennis team in the last four years is hard to miss, and there has been one constant: senior leader Bradley Cross.

One can’t talk about the tennis program without mentioning Cross, especially after the perseverance he showed this season. He managed to hold down the No. 1 singles spot all season despite suffering a sprained MCL late in the season.

“Knowing that there are always kids that are better than me, and that I will have to improve to beat, is what pushes me to be better,” Cross said.

The poise and leadership Cross showed this season can’t be understated. He will have a lasting impact on the tennis program, paving the way for the next generation of stars here at Jeff.

“He’s helped the whole team get better by pushing us everyday,” said freshman tennis player Gavin Lone “that makes it fun to play for Jeff.”

Cross doesn’t just get it done on the courts, but in the classroom too. He earned Academic All-State both his junior and senior years. Even after all the success playing, according to Cross  Academic All-State is still one of the accomplishments he is most proud of.

Unfortunately, Cross’ career at Jeff came to an end after a 4-1 loss to Reitz Memorial High School in the first round of semi-state this year. However, this came after his team’s two amazing comeback wins during Regionals, pulling out wins against rivals Floyd Central and New Albany.

In the Regional semifinal, though, is where Cross did his best orchestration.

Cross, still noticeably hobbled by a knee injury suffered earlier in the year, had a deciding third set against Floyd Central’s No. 1 player, Chris Boone.

With the overall match knotted at 2-2, Cross and Boone were the last two players on the court. Cross had to win for his team to advance in the state tournament.

After a hard fought match on both sides, Cross came out on top and won the match for his team, beating Boone 6-4 in the deciding third set. This win is a perfect example of the mental toughness he showed throughout his career at Jeff.

“He brings to the table what all coaches want to have, he knows there is no ‘I’ in team,” former JHS tennis coach Mark Reilly said.

Cross is determined to be the best tennis player he can be, and he will continue to prove it next year. He will be making the transition from high school to college tennis this coming summer, where his talents have landed him a spot on the tennis team at Indiana University Southeast.

While Cross is looking ahead, his time playing at JHS will always be remembered. However he, along with many others, look back at a tough loss against North Central in the semifinal round of the state finals in 2015 as a moment he wishes he could relive.

Bradley Cross has been a staple of the tennis program at Jeff High over the last four years. His talent and work ethic are matched by few, and his presence will be irreplaceable. 

by Amber Smith