FlipSide Saturday

June 2, 2007

Saying goodbye: Seniors reminisce, give advice to underclassmen
As graduation ceremonies approach and pass, seniors can’t help but to reminisce over all their high school memories. As expected, many of them recall things like the countless hours spent goofing off during lunch, the various homecoming battles they competed in and the bonds that they formed with classmates and teachers.

Disney’s ‘Pirates’ trilogy ends with a bang
“Yo ho, yo ho, a pirate’s life for me.” This summer, get in the pirate spirit with “Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End.”

Teen treasures teacher’s friendship
Teachers. Wait! I know what you’re thinking — teachers are those boring, upright grouches who dress in dowdy clothes and assign way too much homework. While that maybe true of some classroom drones we know, I learned that a teacher can actually teach you something besides the parts of speech and the location of Mongolia. I learned that a special teacher can have a real impact on you life, truly changing how you think and act.

Local student orchestra wins at Strawberry Festival
Every May, Buckhannon hosts the annual West Virginia Strawberry Festival. Along with all the rides and games, there are several competitions — including the recently created orchestra competition. This was the second year that the combined South Charleston/Capital High School orchestra attended the festival. It was my first.

May 26, 2007

Jordin wins on ‘American Idol’ finale
Finally, we were down to the top two. Who would be the next American Idol — Blake or Jordin? My friends and I had discussed this a lot. Blake is arguably the most original singer ever in the competition, while Jordin has arguably the best vocals of any contestant.

Vacation getaways: Banish boredom this summer with books
During the summer, it’s easy to idle away the long days in the sun. So while you’re lying out by the pool, sitting on the beach or just relaxing at home, here are a few of the best young adult book series out there to keep your brain from going completely AWOL between now and September.

Students remember lost classmates at graduation
Graduation is an important event. For many, it comes and goes without incident. It’s a regular ceremony of predictable speeches, lots of walking and names being called and the band playing the traditional “Pomp and Circumstance.” For the 2007 class of St. Albans High School, which graduated on Thursday at the Charleston Civic Center, the ceremony took on a different, deeper meaning.

Delia’s opens at Charleston Town Center
Summertime is almost here, and many teenage girls are starting to worry. “What swimsuit should I get?” they wonder.

Shrek’s back for more fun
Donkey’s incessant questions of “Are we there yet?” have finally been answered. Shrek and his buddies are back in theaters with “Shrek the Third.” But you’ve probably got questions of your own — like is it worth your time and money to see?

May 19

‘There’s nothing else I’d rather be doing’: Charleston native talks about life as a musician
To pursue music as a career is difficult. Success is not guaranteed, and you tour a lot so you’re never in one place for very long. It may be difficult to maintain relationships with friends and family and to make enough money just to get by.

Wacky Web fun with Smosh
The Pokémon theme song. California stereotypes. Boys playing with dolls. What do all these things have in common? They’re all subjects of Smosh videos.

Frighteningly realistic sequel lives up to first offering
Movies like “Saw,” “Wolf Creek,” “The Devil’s Rejects” and “Hostel” have ushered in a new era of horror films — aptly dubbed “torture porn” by critic David Edelstein. However, there is still hope for the horror genre. For anyone looking for a well-crafted, terrifying movie that isn’t simply a snuff film in disguise, “28 Weeks Later” shines like a gleaming beacon of hope.

Analyzing Idol: And then there were two
This has to be the most stressful week for the wannabe Idols. There’s no more help from any guest celebrities, and they have to sing three songs — one picked out by them, one by the judges and one by the producers. Still, even without the amazing LaKisha, I think this week was the best yet of this season’s competition.

Local band goes the Time and Distance
Time and Distance is one of those bands that makes you thankful for rock.

May 12

A tangled web: 'Spider-Man 3' a mixed bag
When all of the sound and fury over "Spider-Man 3" subsides, when the Spider-Man toys are relegated to the bargain bins and the Spider-Man Pop-Tarts are cleared from the grocery store shelves, how will the movie itself stand up? At this early stage, it's hard to say. "Spider-Man 3" is a mixed bag, representing some of the best and worst the series has offered.

These teens don't diet for looks
What have you eaten today? Maybe it was a cheeseburger and fries or a couple slices of pepperoni pizza. Maybe it was a plate of pancakes with scrambled eggs. What if you couldn't eat any of these things? For various reasons, some teens can't.

Singing the praises of 'Mamma Mia'
The Broadway musical "Mamma Mia!" is an amazing, unexpected, fun and heartwarming tale based on the music of Swedish supergroup ABBA. The touring production is coming to the region later this month, stopping in Cincinnati on May 22-27.

Library volunteers needed
If you're looking for a way to fill your summer hours and you're a middle or high school student between the ages of 12 and 18, then look no further than the Kanawha County Public Library system. They system's 11 libraries are looking for VolunTEENS to assist with the summer reading program, make displays and shelve books.

Analyzing Idol, Week 9: Blake deserved elimination, not LaKisha
In the first round, Blake did the worst. He sang "You Should Be Dancing" and tried to do too much with it. Consequently, it didn't work. Simon said it was terrible, and, shockingly, Paula didn't like it either. I say the beatboxing has got to go.

May 5

Al Neuharth Free Spirit Scholars: Conference immerses students in world of journalism
In late March, high school seniors from across the country spent five days in the nation's capitol learning about journalism at the Al Neuharth Free Spirit Scholarship and Conference Program.

Peers as instructive as speakers at conference
My senior year has been an exciting time, albeit one filled with dozens of scholarship applications and other forms. However, this paperwork has paid off in the end. Of my many scholarship awards, one that I am truly proud of is the Al Neuharth Free Spirit Scholar Award.

Peer pressure can be positive
Although peer pressure is most commonly associated with troublemakers and irresponsible behavior, it can also affect people positively. Peer pressure can sometimes help accomplish great things. I have witnessed this firsthand.

Disability caucus seeks youth delegates
As a delegate of the 2005 Youth Disability Caucus, I would like to invite disabled teens across the state to participate in the 2007 Youth Disability Caucus, which will be held July 15-18 at the Charleston Marriott.

Take a trip to 'Disturbia'
Imagine this: you live on a nice suburban street. You have a neighbor on one side who's a really hot girl (or guy). There are two little hellions across the street who torment you. And, oh yeah, your neighbor on the other side just might be a serial killer.

'High School Musical' hits Charleston
If you're looking for a little excitement this summer, then look no further than Charleston Town Center! This summer will be packed with fun for teens as Town Center, FlipSide, the Clay Center and Charleston Light Opera Guild celebrate "High School Musical."

Week 8: Phil and Chris get the boot
Nobody left last week, so this week, two were sent packing. Before that, though, the final five rocked out to Bon Jovi songs with the help of Jon Bon Jovi himself.

April 28

Talented trio: Youth ballet, symphony and choir combine for 'Sleeping Beauty'
Many people associate "Sleeping Beauty" with the Disney film, but they fail to pay homage to its roots in theater. On Friday, several area youth groups -- the River City Youth Ballet Ensemble, West Virginia Youth Orchestra and Appalachian Children's Chorus -- are bringing the classic to the Clay Center's stage.

Teen travels the world as student ambassador
Many teenagers want to travel. They want the chance to see new places and to learn about new cultures. South Charleston High School senior Megan Hunt has already had that chance.

Capital freshman to compete in national poetry event
On March 24, Elizabeth McCormick placed first at the statewide level of the national Poetry Out Loud competition, held at the Charleston Cultural Center, with her recitation of those three works. With her win, she earned a trip to Washington D.C., taking place this coming week, where she will compete on a national level.

'Are We Done Yet?' I hope so!
The best part of "Are We Done Yet?" is the opening credits where Nick and his family are cartoons. My cousin and I laughed our heads off at this part.

'Take a chance' on Half Past Forever
Half Past Forever is one of the music industry's best-kept secrets. Fronted by 2007 "American Idol" finalist Chris Sligh, it's an alternative rock band on the brink of stardom. While its album, "Take a Chance on Something Beautiful," isn't widely known yet, it boasts catchy lyrics and melodies that will soon find new fans thanks to Sligh's stint on "Idol."

April 21

We're all Hokies today
Local students respond to tragic events in Blacksburg

Virginia Tech tragedy: Students debate campus security after massacre
Shock, anger, confusion and sadness. These were emotions felt on Monday as we watched from all across the country the horrific events unfold on the campus of Virginia Tech. Stunned by the random acts of violence and brutality, peer groups and communities came together to mourn and remember those whose lives were lost so tragically.

Students speak out by staying silent
On Wednesday, select colleges and high schools across the nation observed the National Day of Silence. Begun in 1996 at the University of Virginia, the Day of Silence has become "the largest single student-led action towards creating safer schools for all," according to its Web site, www.dayofsilence.org.

Innovating, entertaining 'Grindhouse' recalls bad 70s flicks
When it comes to terrible cinema, there are bad movies and "bad movies." In the case of "Grindhouse," directors Quentin Tarantino and Robert Rodriguez have set out to make the latter. It's their tribute to the schlocky, sleazy, yet ultimately thrilling exploitation fare they grew up watching.

Saying sayonara to 'Idol's' Sanjaya
Season six of "American Idol" has differed from all the past seasons because of a single contestant: Sanjaya Malakar. He has been called everything from tone-deaf Idol to America's worst singer. Nevertheless, he managed to last in the competition through this week.

April 14

Close to home: Project makes Holocaust personal for Putnam students
The Kindertransport, meaning “child’s train,” protected 10,000 Jewish children who were citizens in countries endangered by Nazi rule, including Germany, Poland, Czechoslovakia and Austria. The children were transported from their homes across thousands of miles to London, where they were met by a sponsor family.

Holocaust survivor tells family’s story
When people think of the Holocaust, images of mass graves, starved and emaciated people, and cattle trains bringing innocent men, women, and children to their deaths may come to mind. Rarely do people think of its survivors, the ones who lived to tell about the horrors of the Holocaust and its concentration camps.

Book tells powerful true story of teen’s Holocaust survival
“Trapped Inside the Story” by Leslie Cohen takes readers to Lvov, Poland, before the Great Depression. A biography, it tells the story of Sonya Hebenstreit, a 13-year-old Jewish girl growing up on the brink of the Holocaust.

Week 5: Haley's elimination is an outrage
Well, it was Latino week on "American Idol" with guest judge and performer Jennifer Lopez. Two Idol wannabes did awful, four did well and two did wonderful.

April 7

Political differences: German exchange student recounts trip to state Capitol
On Feb. 12, nine Richwood High School students, including me, and two teachers visited the Capitol building for Government Day. As an exchange student, it felt very special for me to stand in one of the most important buildings in West Virginia.

Tutoring at Holz is elementary
Tutoring is a unique experience. It doesn’t matter if you are the one needing a tutor or the one doing the tutoring — both sides benefit. The tutor helps make a difference in someone else’s life and the person being tutored is able to have someone help him or her in a particular area of study.

Clap Your Hands Say Yeah: Indie darlings fall victim to sophomore slump
Clap Your Hands’ first album set the bar ridiculously high, and anything short of an exact replication would fail to compare to it. With its second album, “Some Loud Thunder,” the band was forced to realize that.

Through Raze, teens tear down tobacco lies
You’ve heard about it. You’ve seen the commercials. You know friends who are in it. But do you know what Raze is all about?

Online classes offer college credit early
Children of all ages want to be older than they really are. Sometimes it is impossible — either because of laws or parents’ rules — to do something at a younger age. But now, Marshall University is helping those teens who are ready get a head start on college through its Online College Courses in the High School program.

Analyzing Idol, Week 4: LaKisha steals show
Music from the 50s is simple and enjoyable for everyone (and it’s fun for karaoke). This week, Tony Bennett came and helped the contestants sing his songs from that time. With his help, three did bad, two did OK, two did nice and two did wonderful.

March 31

Senior shirt causes stir at Riverside
This year's senior class at Riverside High School is a wonderful group, according to Principal Paula Potter. With the highest number of Promise Scholars in the school's history, more than 30 students graduating with a GPA above 4.0 and a high percentage of students in such honoraries as Beta Club, Mu Alpha Theta and Tri-M, the class of 2007 has accomplished a great deal.

Second 'Hills' a huge disappointment
I wouldn't recommend this movie to anyone. It was a huge disappointment. Whereas the first "Hills" was believable, unique and well put together, this one is tacky and low budget. If you're looking for a movie to see, avoid "The Hills Have Eyes II."

'TMNT' serves up a semi-satisfying nostalgia trip
Nostalgia may be an odd emotion for a 19-year-old to feel, but that's precisely what I felt while watching "TMNT." Anyone who was a child between the mid-80s to mid-90s likely is familiar with the half-shelled heroes. Most can probably recite the famous theme song and tell you which Turtle is the coolest. (Donatello, in case you were wondering.)

Flying high: Ultimate Frisbee's popularity leads to school teams
Who can dislike a sport named after its own sheer awesomeness? Arguably the most interesting of the non-contact sports, ultimate Frisbee is a combination of Frisbee golf and football. The game originated in the late 1960s at Columbia High School in Maplewood, N.J. The term "ultimate" was likely coined on the grounds that it is the "ultimate sport."

Analyzing Idol, Week 3: Why is Sanjaya still around?
There was only one person who did awful, so let's start with him. Sanjaya needs to go home. Simon told him, "Good luck," and when he says that, it always means that a contestant didn't do well. I couldn't agree more.

March 24

Mission of peace
For 18 days earlier this year, FlipSider Emily Barksdale traveled with 19 other teens and five adults to Managua, Nicaragua for a mission trip. There, the group worked closely with residents of Project Chacocente, and Barksdale was impacted by the attitude of the people, who, though living in a city dump, were positive and full of hope.

Family comedy is a 'wild' ride
Have you ever wanted to know what would happen if you put four well-known comedians/actors together in one movie? Well, the new family-friendly comedy "Wild Hogs" -- starring Tim Allen, John Travolta, Martin Lawrence and William H. Macy -- does just that.

And the winner is...
Lauren Nagy, a 17-year-old senior at George Washington High School, has smoked the competition to take top honors in the FlipSide/Smoke on the Water Chili Cook-off Art Contest.

'Hair' doesn't grow on readers
Morgan Rawlinson is a major pain in the butt at the beginning of "Why I let My Hair Grow Out" by Maryrose Wood. She is rude to her family, and her dark mood affects everyone around her.

Analyzing Idol: Week 2
This week was intense. Eleven contestants battled it out for the a spot in the Top 10 and a chance to secure a place on the "American Idol" tour that will take place after the show ends. Of the performances, which had a "British Invasion" theme, three were awful, two were forgettable and one was just OK. Then, there were five that were really good.

Analyzing Idol: Week 1
Real competition finally underway.