Norsestar December 2024

Volume 61, Issue 1
NORSESTAR
December 18, 2024
Parkway North High School
St. Louis, Missouri
WHAT’S
INSIDE?
Page 3:
Photographers
Show Their Work
at Webster
Page 4:
North Celebrates
Hispanic
Heritage Month
Page 6:
St. Louis Lights
Up for the
Holiday Season
Page 11:
Girls Cross Country
Places Second at
Districts; Sends
Team to State

2
NORSESTAR
2
Editors
Ethan Prior
Alex Tycksen
Staff Members
Layla Barnett
Allison Brady
Leslie Ford
Jacob Goldman
Colin Johnson
Chloe Lancaster
Brian Tyler
Brice Tyler
William Pooley
Noel White
Tracy Silvagnoli | Sponsor
Policy
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and other readers to publish their
opinion in the form of a letter to
the editor. However, due to space
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News
Band Ends Semester with Winter Concert
LESLIE FORD
The North Area Band Concert has
been going on for around 35 years. This
year, it was held on Dec. 17 and featured
performances by the Northeast Middle
School Band and the North High Band. The
collaboration offered an opportunity for
middle school musicians to join high school
musicians, creating a unique and memorable
experience.
“The music is harder [from middle to high
school], and the way you have carry yourself
is different,” freshman Eldred Stephens said.
Stephens, like many other freshman
students, participated in the North Area
Concert last year as a middle schooler.
Middle schoolers who aren’t used to big
concerts may have been overwhelmed.
“My initial reactions was there was a lot
of people, and that I don’t know if I can play
that well in high school when I saw the high
school bands,” Stephens said.
The concert fosters a connection between
high school and middle school musicians,
allowing younger students to glimpse what
it’s like to perform at a more advanced level
in front of a large crowd. It also helps them
build familiarity with the high school band
DECEMBER 18
PARKWAY NORTH HIGH SCHOOL
Band, Choir Students Selected to All-State
ALLISON BRADY AND LESLIE FORD
In December, Parkway North Band and
Choir members auditioned and were selected
to their respective Missouri All State groups.
To secure an All-State audition, they first had
to be selected to All Suburban. For band, five
students auditioned and two were selected,
and for choir, five students auditioned and
four were selected.
Junior Levi Schulte
was selected as a
tenor alternate for All
State Choir
Photo by Levi Schulte
During Concert Band’s last time rehearsing for
their concert, freshman Gabriel Cook, Audrey
Menees, and Nathaniel Wells practice on flute.
members they’ll play with in the future.
“Last year, this concert was a huge
success. It ended up being standing-roomonly
because so many people came out to
support the bands,” assistant band director
Sarah Wilson said.
Once in high school, students spend
hours preparing and perfecting their craft
to perform for members of the community,
but meet only a few times all together during
Academic Lab to rehearse together.
“Students from multiple classes come
together for just a couple of combined
Senior Eva Jansen
received a soprano
honorable mention
for All State Choir.
“I was excited and
proud of myself
because the hard
work I put in paid
off,” said Jansen.
Photo by Anna Zwibelman
Senior Max
Banashek was
selected as a bass
singer for All State
Choir. This was
Banashek’s first time
auditioning for All
State.
rehearsals to practice combining wind
instruments and percussion to prepare for
the concert,” Wilson said.
While this was a first public performance
for many new band members, others
experienced performing in front of large
crowds by being in marching band.
“Marching band is a lot more work and
a lot harder music. Concert band is really
easy,” sophomore Sarah Smith said.
For many of the students who did
marching band, the sport helped them
prepare for the concert and makes them a lot
less scared.
“The things we did in marching band
helped with that,” Stephens said.
Even though they had skills that prepared
them, the time to prepare between the end
of the marching band season and the concert
was short.
“The turnaround from marching band
season to the December Concert is fairly
quick - only a month and a half to prepare,”
Wilson said.
The winter concert also differed from
marching band since it did not consist of
drills and consisted of music from many
different genres like holiday/winter themed
and standard band marches music.
Junior Ethan Denny
was selected as a
clarinet player for
All State Band.
“This is my second
year doing All-State
Audition and this
year, I actually got
into the band,” said
Denny.
Photo by Audrey Denny
Junior Delaney
Caron was selected
as a soprano alternate
for All State Choir.
“I thought I would
just step out of my
comfort zone even
more,” said Caron.
Photo From: Delaney
Caron
Cover photos: Mu Alpha Theta photo by Melanie
Wilmert, National Honor Society photo by Elizabeth
Fuehne
Junior Auriana Roy
was selected as a
flute player for All
Suburban Band and
auditioned for All
State. “When the
music all comes
together, it’s a
very gratifying
experience,” said
Roy.
Photo by Douglas Roy
Junior Daphne
Kneipp was selected
as a trumpet player
for All Suburban
Band and auditioned
for All State. “I think
it’s good to leave
your comfort zone
and try new things
like that because it
can help you push
yourself to become
better,” said Kniepp.
Senior Dakota
Tritinger received an
honorable mention
for the tuba for All
State Band. “Music
is one of the most
timeless forms of
expression,” said
Tritinger.
Photo by Andrea Tritinger

DECEMBER 18
PARKWAY NORTH HIGH SCHOOL
News 3
Singers Showcase Talent at Choir Coffee House
ALLISON BRADY AND LESLIE FORD
On Dec. 12, 2024, Parkway North Choir
held their fourth annual Coffee House event
in the Commons, starting at 7 p.m.. The
students, led by choir teacher Kimberly
Roback, performed for the crowd who
enjoyed beverages and baked goods that
could be bought for one dollar.
“Everyone in choir participates in Coffee
House. It’s a really fun concert, and it has
such a different feel than other concerts,”
said junior Kara Niemeyer, who is part of
Valholla as well as Chamber Choir.
All four choir groups performed at
Coffee House including Concert Chorale
with freshman and sophomore sopranos and
altos, Chamber Choir with freshman and
sophomore tenors and basses, Concert Choir
with all juniors and seniors, and Valholla,
the a cappella choir.
“It’s a longer concert, but the way we do
it, we keep it moving. So you just get a lot
more variety,” said Roback, the choir teacher
at North and organizer of the Coffee House.
In addition to group performances,
student singers also performed solos and
sang in small groups. Niemeyer performed
a solo, “Breathe” from “In The Heights.”
There were 19 performance that included
soloist and small groups; each singing vast
different music genres.
“My favorite part of the concert is hearing
solos,” Niemeyer said. “There are so many
Concert Choir performs “Java Jive” at the opening of Coffee House. They end their song with
their cups raised. “I’ve been doing this for about four years, so it’s cool to see it all at a senior
level and how much it has grown,” said senior Izak Seago, a member of concert choir.
Students Exhibit Photography at Webster University
ALLISON BRADY
Three Parkway North students had their
photographs selected to be displayed at
the “Beginnings 2024: Juried High School
Photography” exhibit at Webster University.
The pictures were judged by Webster
professors Micheal Long and Natalia
Kaniasty, who selected one photo each from
juniors Alejandra Diaz, Daphne Kneipp, and
Ellie Skroska.
Their photos will be displayed at the
Kooyumijan Gallery from Dec. 6 to Jan. 28.
There was a reception on Dec. 6 to celebrate
the opening of the exhibit.
talented people in choir and solos and small
groups are a great way to show that talent.”
Unlike other choir concerts where the
program is set for students and the setting
is more formal at a larger venue, the Coffee
House is a lot more informal, and is designed
to match the casual, relaxed energy of a
coffeehouse. This is achieved by having the
audience sit at tables in the commons, as
“I made it a [photography] class
assignment, so I had the students select their
favorite two images from the semester,” said
photography teacher Christa Ollinger. She
submitted photographs from this year’s fall
semester class as well as last year’s spring
semester class.
The work at the exhibit showcased a
diverse range of styles and photograph
types. North’s photographs covered a
variety of subjects. Diaz had a portrait of a
classmate displayed, Skroska had a picture
of a pink flower, and Kniepp had a close-up
photograph of a cat.
“[They all had] a combination of good
opposed to their usual locations including
Parkway Baptist Church or the large gym,
and by selling coffee, hot chocolate, and
home baked goods, as well as raffle baskets.
“Coffee House is also a time where we
get to sing unserious songs, and they are a lot
of fun,” Niemeyer said.
Students also have more input about
what they perform. While the choirs perform
focus, an interesting angle of light, and the
overall simplicity of them,” said Ollinger.
“They’re nice to look at…you’re not feeling
like you’re being bombarded by too much
information.”
The exhibit provides high schoolers with
insight about what college photography
could look like and provides them with a
space to professionally display their work.
“It was really cool to see my art officially
displayed,” said Skroska. “I’ve never seen
my artwork like that before, and it was really
cool to have it in an official gallery.”
The selection process was competitive,
with over 520 photographs submitted from
standard pieces chosen by the conductor, and
practice like they normally would in class
and during Academic Lab, the Choir Coffee
House gives student singers the opportunity
to choose to perform a solo or in a small
group where they choose the music.
“[It’s their] responsibility to rehearse it,
and then they have to perform it for me ahead
of time so that I know that they’re prepared
and ready to go,” Roback said.
To prepare for the evening, students
worked in class as well as out of class to
perfect their performances.
“To prepare we run through the songs
and go over any parts we are struggling with.
We also add props or choreography to the
songs,” Niemeyer said.
Once the soloists and small group
performances had been chosen, Roback
takes all of the solo, small group, and choir
performances and puts them together in one
program for the night.
“I absolutely love watching the students
support one another because when the kids
do their solos or small groups, the rest of
the choir members are always cheering and
‘woohooing.’ I love watching them lift each
other up,” Roback said.
The Choir Coffee House is always a
well-attended event with over 100 people
attending the performances.
“It seems like every year, the audience
grows. More parents, friends, teachers, and
administrators come every year to enjoy our
live music,” Niemeyer said.
31 high schools in the area, both public and
private. For a chance to be selected, students
had to carefully select their submissions
based on grading criteria such as good focus,
composition, and the artist’s intent.
“What inspired my photography was
the dramatic context that resulted from the
lighting and the deep meaning it can reflect,”
said Diaz. “I generated an interest in it when
I was reviewing all my pictures, [and] I
thought it was the best picture I had so far.”
Daphne Kneipp and Ellie Skroska stand next
to each other at Webster University.
1. Alejandra Diaz’s photograph 2. Ellie
Skroska’s photograph 3. Daphne Kniepp’s
photograph.

4
Every year, people around the United
States celebrate the cultures and contributions
of both Hispanic and Latino Americans
during Hispanic Heritage month from Sept.
15-Oct. 15. This year, Parkway North joined
in celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month for
the first time with games, trivia, and prizes.
Computer Specialist Gina Howe helped
organize the events with help from others.
“It went well. It being the first year,
students didn’t expect it to be that much
engagement. Students were very happy,”
Howe said.
One event students participated in was the
pinata contest that took place on the football
field on Oct. 4. Students were invited to
come out during lunch to take a swing at the
pinata to get candy.
“There was candy, and my friends were
going. It was really funny,” said freshmen
Curtis Marten.
Students also tested their knowledge of
Hispanic and Latino culture by taking part
in trivia challenges where they could win
prizes. One student won a $400 pair of shoes.
“We did have Nike donate over $5,000 of
On Saturday, Nov. 2, members of Mu
Alpha Theta, the National Mathematics
Honor Society, competed at the Excellence
in Mathematics Competition at Forest Park
Community College. Over 100 students from
different high schools in the area attended.
“I learned how a competition like this
usually goes, since I haven’t taken too many
test competitions, and I learned that time is
everything and managing it properly is the
key,” freshman Nikhil Rajesh said.
At the competition, students are divided
into different divisions based on grade level.
There are competitions for individuals as
well as grade-level teams. Awards are given
out to the top students and teams in each
division.
Six out of the nine individuals from
North who competed placed in individual
competitions. Rajesh placed sixth in the
freshmen division while junior Prakhar
Singh placed ninth in the junior division.
Seniors Sam Lipsutz, Bhavya Agarwal, Eric
Lipsutz, and Ray Rao placed second, fourth,
fifth and eighth respectively in the senior
division.
“Personally, I did very poorly, but as
a team I am very proud of how North did.
Seniors in particular got first place, and our
underclassmen did very well,” Rao said.
Besides individual awards, the freshmen
team also did well placing fourth overall,
News
DECEMBER 18
PARKWAY NORTH HIGH SCHOOL
North Celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month
BRIAN TYLER
Mu Alpha Theta Excels at
Forest Park Competitions
LAYLA BARNETT
Freshman Curtis Marten swings at a pinata during lunch in the hopes of getting some candy.
Parkway North hosted the event as one of the activities to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month.
Freshman Nikhil Rajesh receives his ribbon for
doing well at the Mathematics Competition
before going on a scavenger hunt at a Mu
Alpha Theta meeting.
while the senior team placed first overall.
To win, students were required to answer
a certain set of math questions in a set amount
of time, almost like an ACT test. Correct
responses earned points, while incorrect
answers earned negative points. Students
who participated could practice ahead of
time by looking at last year’s questions.
“I prepared with my friend Sofie, using
the slides and other resources on Google
classroom to acquaint myself with the style
of the test,” Rajesh said.
Students may still join Mu Alpha Theta
and test their knowledge.
“I’ll probably do it again next year too
to keep improving my skills in that area,”
Rajesh said.
stuff students have won,” Howe said.
Hispanic Heritage Month has not always
been celebrated. In 1968, President Lyndon
B. Johnson created Hispanic Heritage Week
which was later expanded to be a monthlong
celebration in 1988 when President
Ronald Reagan signed it into law.
“It’s really important because of the
cultural aspects, and it means a lot to me”
freshman Anthony Baeza said.
National Honor Society
Welcomes New Members
BRIAN TYLER and ETHAN PRIOR
This year, the National Honor Society’s
annual induction ceremony of new members
took place in the Parkway North theater in
on Oct. 29, 2024.
“The ceremony was run by the student
board where they do speeches and they have
a guest speaker that talks at the ceremony,”
sponsor Debbie Banashek-Twist said.
Being inducted into NHS is considered
a significant achievement, as members are
required to dedicate time to activities such as
student leadership and community service,
all while maintaining strong academic
performance.
“To join NHS, you need to have at least
a 3.5-3.6 GPA by the end of your sophomore
year, which students are informed of by
email,” Banashek-Twist said.
Even though participating is optional,
and the qualifications may feel intense,
students still join for the chance to better
themselves and lend a hand to people in their
communities.
“I wanted to volunteer more in the
Parkway North High School Community.
I’m very happy to be a part of this club,” said
junior Monica Johnson, one of the inductees.
NHS offers plenty of ways to get involved
in the community including providing
tutoring for students after school and running
charity drives. The events with the arguably
biggest participation are the yearly donation
Students at North learned about the
contributions of Hispanic-Americans not
only through the games and trivia but also
through the daily announcements that
highlighted information about Hispanic
culture and achievements.
“They break the pinata as part of a
tradition, and of course, the candy falls
out,” Marten said. “I thought it was all very
interesting… I’m glad I went.”
While all students celebrated and learned
a lot from the events, this celebration, and the
fact that North is partaking in the celebration
is especially important to students of
Hispanic descent.
“I wasn’t available to get to the
celebration at the school, but it’s very great
to take a little time out and try and celebrate
it,” Baeza said.
Next year, Howe and others involved
hope to continue and expand upon this
tradition.
“The students were mostly engaged,
mostly the Hispanic students because they
were most invested in the new event that
took place this year,” Howe said. “I’m
looking forward to the next year. It will be
better because students will expect it more.”
drives.
“We host two blood drives this year, as
well as a massive food drive in the spring
that goes to the Parkway food pantry,”
Banashek-Twist said.
Participating in NHS can be very
meaningful for students, going beyond
bulking up a college applications or filling
the time, it’s also a chance for personal
enrichment and meaningful community
involvement.
“I’m really excited I was inducted. I’m
very ready to help out the community, do
all the service projects they do, and take on
more leadership in the future,” Johnson said.
Seniors Andrew Ryan, Mellisa Park, Sophie
Wong, and Elizabeth Fuehne pose together
at the National Honors Society induction
ceremony. Information about being inducted
into the society is released at the end of each
school year.

DECEMBER 18
PARKWAY NORTH HIGH SCHOOL
After winter break, students will come
back to school for one week of preparation
before finals. For some students, this will be
their first time navigating the challenges of
finals; for others, it will be one of their last
opportunities to demonstrate their academic
skills. Regardless of their experience, finals
carries a mix of anticipation, pressure, and
the promise of progress.
“I feel like since it’s my first year, I will
have to work hard and try my best to do well
on my finals this year. This year is going
to be the start of something new, and will
progress over the school year with finals,”
freshman Dontrell Clark said.
Finals will begin on Jan. 13 with the
block one exam. The remainder of the week
will consist of two finals a day: blocks 2 and
3 on Tuesday, blocks 5 and 7 on Wednesday,
and blocks 6 and 8 on Thursday with no
school on Friday.
Staying motivated for finals at the end of
the semester can be difficult. One way to stay
motivated is to get snacks or to do something
you like to enjoy including playing games,
getting active, or engaging in hobbies that
don’t involve too much thinking.
“To stay motivated, I play music and
dance often since it’s things I like doing and
love,” senior Sionna Howard said.
Staying focused during class and focusing
on the end goal can also help a student stay
motivated and do well. Howard isn’t looking
forward to finals but is looking forward to
Features 5
Finals Don’t Have to be Stressful
BRIAN TYLER and LAYLA BARNETT
Finals Schedule
Monday, January 16
Block 1 Exam 7:35-9:30
Block 2 9:36-10:56
Block 6 11:04-1:04
Block 8 1:10-2:30
Tuesday, January 17
Block 2 Exam 7:35-9:30
Block 3 Exam 9:40-11:35
Wednesday, January 18
Block 5 Exam 7:35-9:30
Block 7 Exam 9:40-11:35
Thursday, January 19
Block 6 Exam 7:35-9:30
Block 8 Exam 9:40-11:35
Friday, January 20
No school
Students use study guides and notes like these to help them prepare for finals. Some students
will be taking finals in high school for the first time while others are taking them for one of the
last times.
what will happen afterward and what doing
well on the finals will get for her.
“[Since this is] my last year of finals,
I’m looking forward to going to college and
being successful. One thing I would like to
recommend to new freshmen taking their
first final is don’t mess around and just focus
on your work,” Howard said.
It’s also good to be prepared. Studying
ahead of time instead of cramming can help
a student succeed.
“For the freshmen doing finals for the first
time, always have a study plan and don’t get
behind on your work because it can damage
your grade and understanding on work or the
final,” sophomore Jakhi Bunch said.
Utilizing group study sessions or the
after-school tutoring program hosted by the
National Honor Society in the library might
further a student’s knowledge or confidence
before taking the tests.
“Signing up for homework help after
school with Brigid Dolan can make you more
eager to finish those assignments instead of
waiting,” Howard said.
To help students prepare for finals the
National Honor Society also will be hosting a
tutoring session in the library with hot cocoa
after school on Jan. 7. In the past, students
have found these sessions extremely useful
for preparing for their finals since it helps
having someone their age and who is in their
situation hep them.
“Folks have found it useful in the past.
It tends to be a big activity with lots of
people that show up, which is why we keep
doing it every year,” social studies teacher
and National Honor Society sponsor Scott
Nilsen said.
Some other tips for studying include
finding a good place to study, removing
distractions like cell phones, and chucking
study time with breaks in between so you
don’t get burned out.
“I hear a lot about phone policy
throughout the school and in class a lot.
Breaks are definitely necessary because
you don’t want to just hit yourself with all
information non-stop,” Clark said.
Other helpful study tips include creating
a study playlist, using practice tests to selfassess,
and getting enough sleep. According
to Cornell University, sleep helps with
the conversion of memories into long-term
memories, which is essential for recalling
information during exams.
Finally, reward yourself for studying.
After studying for a certain length of time,
allow yourself a mental break and eat
something yummy, go for a walk, or play a
game.
“After studying, a snack is mandatory
for sure. Usually when I get done studying,
I tend to play the game or play with my
younger siblings,” Bunch said.
While the end of the semester and finals
can be stressful, prioritizing what needs to be
studied and asking questions like what will
be on the test, how the test will be formatted,
etc. can help a student prepare and be ready
for test day.
“ Always look over the study guide before
the test. Never half do it or not do it because
it will definitely affect your studying skills,”
Howard said.
These end-of-term tests are not only a
culmination of months of learning but also
a critical milestone in determining students’
academic progress and future opportunities.
Teachers also often use finals not only to
assess student learning but also to evaluate
the effectiveness of their teaching methods.
“Finals are a way to assess student
learning for the semester and a way to
see what students have retained over the
semester. Sometimes teachers use it as a
way to evaluate what they are teaching,”
counselor Jamesell Kee said.
What’s Your
Favorite Place
to Study?
“It would either
be my room or the
library because
they are both quiet
and they both have
a good feel to it.”
- sophomore Shiv
Patel
“I like to study
at the Thornhill
library because
that way I can get
a room to study
with friends, and
there’s also snacks
and drinks nearby.”
- senior Tiana
Yi
“[My favorite
place to study is]
the library. Since
it’s my first year,
I don’t know what
to expect, but I
heard the library
is a good place to
go.” - freshman
Keyon Pinson
“[My favorite
place too study
is] my bed two
hours before I go
to school the same
day of the test.” -
junior Ellis Brandt
“Either my room
or house...like
the dining room.
It makes me feel
good and ready to
learn.”
-sophomore Alex
Harvey

6
Winter Time
Experts Vs Students:
What North Truly Wants This Season
DECEMBER 18
DECEMBER 18
PARKWAY NORTH HIGH SCHOOL PARKWAY NORTH HIGH SCHOOL 7
St. Louis Lights Up for the Holiday Season
WILLIAM POOLEY and RILEY
GIBBONS
Holiday lights are a tradition that goes
back to the 1920s, with many local attractions
dressing up in colorful light displays that
gleam in the night sky. Even me, someone
who isn’t really convinced on the whole idea
of tradition, went to see the lights.
“Right after Christmas, my family and I are
going to drive down to Branson, Missouri, and
we are going to spend a day at Silver Dollar
City, which is an amusement park there. And
they advertise having over 1 million lights all
over the place. And so we’re excited to go see
that,” said choir director Kimberly Roback
People don’t have to leave town to see a
display of lights. Saint Louis has plenty of
places a person can go to bask in the glow of
holiday lights.
“I want to go to the Garden Glow Festival
at the Botanical Gardens because I’ve seen
pictures of the lights and how pretty they are.
I haven’t been to this one before which is why
I’d love to go,” said senior Adeline Denny.
Considering I’ve gone two-for-two on
people seeing holiday lights, there’s clearly a
reason. Some displays offer a free or cheap
drive-through experience; others offer music
and hot chocolate, and activities. Because of
this, everyone has their own favorite.
“I think the Garden Glow is probably one
of my favorites just because it is so unique. It’s
cold, but they have lots of little fire pits,” said
Roback, who has visited within the past couple
of years.
Ah yes, Garden Glow, the one that is a
tradition in my house, mostly because I have
a mother who’s interested in Gardening, has
over 2 million lights and food and drink as
well. The Garden Glow always has a beautiful
light display that follows a route around the
curated gardens. The garden itself is lit and
enhanced by light displays as well.
“I just love how they have the Dale Chihuly
Glass lit up. And then there’s just, like, all
What is Your
New Year’s
Resolution?
The Missouri Botanical Garden hosts the Garden Glow every year, lighting up all of the building,
walkways, and trees in the garden. This is the twelfth year the garden has been doing this.
kinds of places to take pictures,” Roback said.
Not everyone likes or goes to the same
light display. Saint Louis hosts other light
displays besides the one at the Missouri
Botanical Garden.
While the zoo boast only 1 million lights
as compared to the botanical gardens, it does
have something the botanical gardens doesn’t
have: animals.
“I think I prefer the zoo because they still
had their penguins out,” said senior Samyah
Williamson, who visited Wild Lights at the
zoo last year.
Besides animals and lights, another appeal
for the zoo is that there is food and drink to
be had as well as a 4D movie of “Rudolph the
Red-Nosed Reindeer” with audio and timed
sensory elements.
“I feel like Wild Lights is a little bit more
crowded because the zoo’s smaller, but I think
Wild Lights is aimed a little bit more towards
kids as where Garden Glow, I think, is aimed
a little bit more toward an older crowd, but it’s
still enjoyable for kids,” said Roback.
The zoo also offers creative activities for
kids, so they don’t get bored, where they can
create and take home a souvenir.
Obviously two of the biggest attractions
with lots of walkable space in the St. Louis
region would have light shows, but what the
smaller, neighborhood ones. One of the best
examples of this Candy Cane Lane in South
City, which is free (although donations for
charity are accepted).
“[My favorite think about Candy Cane
Lane] is just seeing how creative some people
can be with their lights,” senior Kylie Sloan
said.
While the neighbors on Murdoch Avenue
may not have millions of lights, they have
hundreds of strands of lights, blow-up
snowman, Santas, Grinches, and reindeer.
They even play music through your car radio.
“I go every year with my family: my
mother, dad, and my sister... It’s always fun.,”
Sloan said.
The best part of Candy Cane Lane, besides
it being free, is that you can ride or walk
through it, making the visit as quick or as short
as you want.
Going to see lights during the winter time
has become a tradition for some people who
make the yearly trek out into the cold.
“[We started doing it] when my son was
born seven years ago. My birthday’s in
December, so we just do it on that night,”
English teacher Jeff Church said.
While some pretend to hate hanging
out with their family on these outings (they
secretly have fun), others go with friends.
“I started going last year with my friend. [I
look forward to] just getting to spend that time
with my friends because I don’t really get to
see her that much,” senior Samyah Williamson
said.
Now, for all of you looking for something
different this year, I may have just the thing
for you, and it’s called light hunting or light
hopping.
“They’ll give you, like directions or an
address to somebody who has a really cool
light display,” Church said. “It’s kind of like a
neighborhood app chat thing. So then you just
go to the address.”
This is another great, free way to spend
your time and get into the holiday spirit with
your family and friends if you like that sort of
thing.
“Last year,we found a house over, in south
county and they actually had a little roller
coaster set up for the kids,” Church said.
A novel concept that I’ve never heard of,
one slight problem. If you decide to participate,
you should expect many people outside your
house. However, if you’re bored with the
standard light displays, it allows for you to see
something new. I have one that’s nearby my
house that would be great for this, but I won’t
tell where that is because then you’ll know
where I live.
WILLIAM POOLEY
As the holidays approach, one question is
on the minds of many: what gifts should we
get our family, friends, and that acquaintance
we got for Secret Santa. Fortunately, for those
who struggle with gift-giving inspiration,
prominent news outlets create gift-giving
guides. “The New York Times” recently
released its annual guide: “The 44 Best Gifts
for Teens in 2024.”
It has a pretty broad selection of gifts from
fun board games, to comfy clothes, to all
things smelly like an essential oils diffuser and
a breakfast scented candle. After reading it,
that made me wonder, how accurate are these
gift-giving guides? What are the top gifts on
North High’s Christmas list?
Senior Alex Beck’s list included nothing on
“The New York Times” list.
“Potentially a new video game because I
like those occasionally,” Beck said.
A new video game is a pretty normal thing
to want for Christmas, but no video games or
video game consoles made “The New York
Times” list this year even though there were
other technical gadgets like drones, earbuds,
and technology organizational systems. “The
New York Times” did offer a link to their
gaming guide listing the best gaming gear
including peripherals and computers but no
games or systems.
Beck also had another item on his list
which didn’t make “The New York Times” list
and might surprise some people, but when you
think about it, it actually makes sense.
“I actually wouldn’t mind cooking
utensils,” Beck said.
Beck enjoys cooking and cooking utensils
can get expensive. Last year, Beck received an
immersion blender that he uses often. A gift
like a cooking utensil is practical, and with
seniors going off to university, it will be used
many times in the coming years.
The only thing I could find on the “New
York Times” list that was related to cooking
utensils was a machine that carbonates drinks
for you. (Wow, this thing is pretty cool. Oh no,
the infamous cheap teenager is now starting to
want things, the world is doomed.)
Students at North also asked for nonelectronic
games they could play.
“I want, probably, a lot of Pokemon cards,”
said sophomore Edwin Fitzhugh.
For those thinking, “Aren’t Pokémon cards
a throwback?”—think again. These collectible
cards, which date back to the 1990s, remain a
thriving phenomenon among fans of all ages.
Holiday Traditions at North
“Usually my family comes in from Las Vegas to visit.” - Lily Weiss
“Usually the day before Christmas, Christmas Eve, I’ll do Christmas Eve Tacos with my family. It’s pretty chill.” - Mycah Atkins
“Opening gifts, and then having a late lunch together, and then having round after round of Christmas movies and playing card games”-Scott
Mueller
“I am going with my family to Hawaii.” - Dakota Tritinger
“Getting together with my family, and we have a big dinner.” - Jacob Beine
“The New York Times” list omits specific
items like Pokémon cards or products tied to
major franchises such as Star Wars or Marvel
or some other major franchise that is hopefully
not owned by Disney, but does have a few
card games on it including Coup and The Best
Friend Game and some board games like the
Chronicles of Crime.
When comparing North High students’
wish lists to “The New York Times” list, the
differences are notable, but hey, we don’t have
to be actually the same as a list created by a
massive news organization, we all are unique
individuals with differing interests.
Best Places to See
Holiday Lights
Garden Glow:
- Missouri Botanical Gardens
- Nov. 16-Jan. 4
- Walk-through lights with food and music
- $22-24
Candy Cane Lane
- 6500 block of Murdoch Avenue
- Drive or walk-through neighborhood
lights
- Free but donations taken for charity
Wild Lights
- Saint Louis Zoo
- Nov. 29-Dec. 29
- Walk-through lights with activities and
food
- $15-18
Winter Wonderland of Lights
- Tilles Park
- Nov. 27-Dec. 30
- Drive-through lights and music
- $20-60
Santa’s Magical Kingdom
- Eureka, MO
- Nov. 15-Jan. 5
- Drive-through light show with music or
Santa Express Train or Holiday Wagon
- $35-50 per vehicle
Holiday Lights at Grant’s Farm
- Grant’s Farm
- Nov. 23-Dec. 30
- Drive-through or walk-through with food
and entertainment or carriage ride
- $12 (per person)-$29 (per vehicle)
WonderLight’s Christmas
- World Wide Technology Raceway
- Nov. 15-Jan. 5
- Drive-through light show with music
- $30-75 per vehicle
“[My resolution is] probably to get
good grades, have a good mental
health, and make as much money as
possible.”- freshman Albany Burr
“[My resolution is] trying to get a
better job for real, because mine
right now, is pretty lame.”
- sophomore Syr’quin Smith
“I just need to get my grades higher.
I have decent ones, but I just need to
get better at it.”- junior Mycah Atkins
“My New Year’s resolution this year is
definitely going to be finish strong in
school, all A’s.”- senior Jacob Beine
“[My resolution is to] make some
money, consistently, and buy a car
before I graduate.” - senior Prem
Patel
“[My resolution is to] prioritize things,
and try to have more time.”- social
studies Melody Barger
Winterfest
- Keiner Plaza
- Nov. 23-Dec. 31
- walk-through lights with activities and
food (fireworks on New Year’s Eve)
- free but activities and food will cost

8
Reviews
New Movies for Winter Months Peak Student Interest
JACOB GOLDMAN
DECEMBER 18
PARKWAY NORTH HIGH SCHOOL
Red One - Released on Nov. 6, 2024, Red
One is a Christmas action movie starring
Dwayne Johnson, Chris Evans, and J.K.
Simmons. Santa Claus gets abducted and
his bodyguard and friend must rescue him.
Unfortunately, the movie was quickly met
with poor reviews from critics, and a mixed
reception from viewers upon release. PG-13
Gladiator II - The sequel to Ridley Scott’s
2000 action film, Gladiator II was released
to immense hype, starring actors like Denzel
Washington and Pedro Pascal. Many who
went to see the movie got what they came
for, exciting sword action in the same realm
as the original. The movie received some
criticism from fans, as well as critics, but has
been a major financial success. R
Wicked Part I - In this adaptation of the
stage play, which is an adaptation of the
1995 novel, the Wicked Witch and the Good
Witch begin as friends but quickly find
different identities. The film stars Ariana
Grande and Cynthia Evo. Despite some
criticisms about the film’s visuals, it’s been
a huge financial success and has been met
with praise from fans and critics alike. PG
The Best Christmas Pageant Ever - A
wacky spin on the classic christmas comedy,
this fun film sees some troublemaking kids
accidentally cast into a church Christmas
pageant. Rave reviews from both critics and
audiences alike make this the perfect picture
to put on with the family, full of laughs,
good cheer, and some very troublesome
youngsters. PG
Moana 2 - In this sequel to Disney’s 2016
animated musical, Moana takes a journey
across the seas after being called away by
her ancestors. Released on Nov. 27, the
movie has been a large success for Disney
financially, but has received criticism
for a lack of creativity compared to its
predecessor. PG
Kraven The Hunter - This movie is the
final one in Sony’s Spiderman film series,
and it is quite devisive. The film has been
met with caution by many due to the low
quality of their previous movies set in
Sony’s Spiderman universe, alongside the
poor critic reviews so far. R
Recipe: Green Bean Casserole (Made By: Melody Barger)
Sonic The Hedgehog 3 - The third
film, and fourth entry in the Sonic the
Hedgehog film/TV adaptations, Sonic 3 has
seen immense hype due to the inclusion of
Shadow the Hedgehog, a beloved character
from the Sonic franchise who’s being voiced
by actor Keanu Reeves in the film. PG-13
Wallace and Gromit: Vengeance Most
Fowl - A straight-to-streaming, stop motion
film, and part of the “Wallace and Gromit’
franchise, this film takes a look at what
happens when Wallace relies on tehcnology
too much and his “smart” gnome develops a
mind of its own. Releasing on Jan. 3, the film
has seen immense hype due to the series’
previous entires being beloved by fans. PG
Recipe: Iced Sugar Cookies (Made By: Cassidy Barger)
Inredients: 2 cans of cut green beans,
1 can of french onions, 1 can of cream
of mushroom soup, 3/4 cup milk,
and salt and pepper
Directions:
1. Preheat Oven to 350 degrees
2. Mix green beans with mushroom soup, milk,
and 1/2 of the fried onions
3. Bake for about 25 minutes, until it’s heated and bubbly
4. Sprinkle remaining onions on top, put back in the oven for about 5 minutes, add salt
and pepper
Inredients: 2 3/4 cups Flour,
1 teapsoon baking soda,
1/2 teapsoon baking powder,
1 cup of butter, 1 and 1/2 cups sugar,
1 egg, and 1 teapsoon vanilla
Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees
2. Stir flour, baking soda, and baking powder in a bowl
3. Beat sugar and butter together until smooth, then beat in egg and vanilla
4. Blend with flour mixture
5. Roll dough, place on baking sheet
6. Bake until edges are golden (eight-ten minutes)
7. Cool on baking sheets, then move cookies toa wire rack
8. Add icing and sprinkles

DECEMBER 18
PARKWAY NORTH HIGH SCHOOL Features 9
Mental, Physical Health Important During Winter
NOEL WHITE
There have been some extreme
temperature drops, and that means less going
out and more staying in. However, this can
lead to a lack of motivation to stay physically
active and a rise in mental health issues such
as seasonal depression.
“This time of the year can bring on a
condition called Seasonal Affective Disorder
which is a type of depression that can last
about 4-5 months within the year,” Parkway
North counselor Jocelyn Page said. “People
with Seasonal Affective Disorder often feel
sad and tired and may notice drastic changes
in their eating habits,”
According to the CDC, around 42% of
high school students experience seasonal
depression. As younger individuals of
society, they are still navigating how to deal
with these feelings and it can be difficult.
“You don’t want your body to weaken
...and you don’t want your mind and your
brain to become weak either. If you take
care of your physical being as well, you’ll
have a much longer life,” said senior Damon
Johnson, a football player at North.
It’s important to take care of one’s mental
health since mental health affects how people
think, feel, and act. Having positive mental
health helps people handle tough situations,
build strong relationships, make good
choices, and reach their fullest potential.
“[When someone I know is feeling down]
I go to them and ask if I can help them or if
there is anything I can do to help them calm
down or maybe we can just go take a walk
together. I can offer that,’’ Johnson said.
As people stay in their homes more, they
tend to get on social media more and watch
TV more. This is not always a bad thing, but
too much of this can lead to physical and
mental issues.
“It’s easy to want to stay inside and
hibernate during the winter months. If you
have access to warm clothes, bundle up and
go outside for some fresh air and take a 30
minute walk,” physical education teacher
Jody Chambers said.
Being outside is important for both one’s
mental and physical health, even if it is cold.
Sunlight produces serotonin, which is known
as the “feel-good” hormone, and melatonin,
which helps regulate time and sleep.
“The sun can help improve your mood.
When you feel good, you are more likely
to go outside to get in a workout. Studies
show that being out in nature can be relaxing
and can help improve your mood. So if it’s
sunny outside, go out and get a 30 minute
walk in,” Chambers said.
If the weather is too bad or dangerous,
staying in and working out will also raise
your mood and make you feel better overall.
“If you cannot go outside for some reason,
stay inside and find your favorite YouTube
fitness channel and get in a 30 minute
workout. You could also clean your room or
your house to stay active,” Chambers said.
Physical activity can lead to not only a
healthier physical state but also a healthier
mental state.
“Physical health is important so a person
can feel good mentally, emotionally, and
physically,” Chambers said. “Good physical
health also means that a person can help
prevent certain diseases and health problems.
Good physical health means a person can
sleep better, and perform better at work or
at school.”
Having poor physical health can lead
to mood swings, skin problems, and health
problems. Staying both mentally and
physically fit can help people prepare for
the future, whether it’s a sport, an academic
challenge, or an emotional issue.
If a person doesn’t think they have time
to exercise or feels too tired or down to
exercise, the best way is to start slow.
“Keep it simple. Go for a walk. Set a
goal for yourself to do 20 squats, 20 sit ups,
10 push-ups, and 20 jumping jacks everyday.
Work up to 100 of each of those exercises
as you start to feel stronger and more fit,”
Students may visit the counseling office any time if they want to talk about their physical or
mental well-being. Winter time brings an abundance of reasons why a person may experience
greater sadness or physical idleness.
Chambers said.
Another cause of depression during this
time of year is the end of the semester, which
coincides with the middle of winter.
“Schoolwork can sometimes make
people feel stressed and anxious because
of the pressure to do well…If school and
sports become overwhelming or if someone
has trouble managing their time, it can
negatively affect their mental well-being,”
Page said.
According to a study by Transforming
Education, over 60% of students feel the
daunting pressure of school stress and the
overload of work that comes with it.
“I really try to focus on myself. I try to
focus on staying calm, trying to stay ‘zen’ so
to speak,” Johnson said.
Another way to combat these issues is
to simply talk to someone. People are more
likely to talk about it when they know there
are resources available to them.
“If you’re feeling really stressed or
overwhelmed, it’s important to get help.
Talk to someone you trust, like a friend or
family member, and think about seeing a
professional, such as a therapist or a doctor,”
Page said.
Finally, joining a group like Students on
the Go or signing up for a gym class can
motivate you to stay active.
“I go to the gym. Sometimes I’ll ask if
I can join with a group of friends that are
going to the gym regularly so that I make
sure that I’m improving during that time,’’
Johnson said.
Taking care of oneself involves taking
time to exercise, eat right, and sleep. While
this is more difficult in the winter months for
a variety of reasons, it’s important so one can
be the best they can be.
“Take care of yourself by eating well,
staying active, getting enough sleep, and
finding ways to relax. Be kind to yourself
and remember that what you’re feeling
matters,” Page said.
Recipe: Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies (Made By:
Annie Zimmermann)
Inredients: 1 cup shortening,
1 cup peanut butter, 1 cup brown sugar,
1 1/2 cups white sugar, 2 eggs,
2 teaspoons vanilla, 3 1/2 cups flour,
2 teaspoons baking soda, 1 teaspoon of salt,
2 bags of Hershey Kisses
Directions:
1. Preheat Oven to 375 degrees
2. Beat shortening, peanut butter, and white sugar until smooth
3. Beat in eggs one at a time, stir milk and vanilla
4. Combine flour, baking soda, salt, stir into the peanut butter mix
5. Shape dough into balls and roll the remaining 1/2 sugar in
6. Place on cookie sheet, bake for 10-12 minutes
7. Remove from oven, place a chocolate kiss in each cookie, then let cool
Recipe: Brussels Sprouts (Made By: Becky
Samardzic)
Inredients: 1 pound brussels sprouts,
trimmed and halved, 6 slices bacon,
3 cloves garlic, minced, salt,
1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil,
1/4 cup balsamic vinegar, 1/4 cup honey,
1 tablespoon of chopped, fresh rosemary
one other student
Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 425 degrees
2. Season brussels sprouts, bacon and garlic with salt and pepper on a baking sheet
3. Drizzle brussels sprouts, bacon, and garlic with oil and toss
4. Bake brussels for about 30 minutes, until tender,
5. While baking, in a small sauce pan, combine balsamic vinegar, honey, and rosemary
6. Simmer the balsamic until reduced by half and stir occasionally
7. Drizzle roasted brussels sprouts with balsamic

10
Sports
DECEMBER 18
PARKWAY NORTH HIGH SCHOOL
Football Team Excels to Quarter Finals
BRICE TYLER
On Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024, the Parkway
North Vikings football team faced the
Lutheran North Crusaders in the state
quarterfinals. This pivotal game came after
they beat Orchard Farms 46 - 14, winning
the district championship. The Vikings lost
in the quarterfinals 18-24 after putting up a
tough fight.
“The team worked very hard to earn a
district championship,” coach and social
studies teacher Karl Odenwald said.
This was only the second time in recent
years that the football team had won the
district championship. The last time was
2016.
“We really came together as a complete
team towards the end of the season,”
Odenwald said. “We were continuing to
improve and playing our best football at the
most important time.”
One of the most memorable moments
of the district game came when one of the
Viking players, wide receiver senior Messiah
Smith, broke a record for rushing yards that
hadn’t been broken in over 20 years.
“I broke the record and then they called a
timeout, and everybody started clapping for
me to congratulate me,” Smith said.
However, the game didn’t start in the
Vikings’ favor. Orchard Farms scored first,
but then the Vikings even-upped the score
and continued to score 18 more points in the
first half.
“It was pretty fun. We were beating them
up pretty bad. We [Parkway North] are a
pretty good team,” defensive lineman junior
Tyler Baur said.
The Vikings didn’t get to the playoff
games by luck. They worked hard after last
season’s end, over the summer, and during
the season to prepare.
“Starting back in January with off-season
workouts and summer camps; it takes a lot
of commitment on the part of everybody on
the team to win a district championship,”
Odenwald said.
The team was also dealing with several
new faces and routines including a new
quarterback, senior Dakarri Hollis, who
Junior Tyler Baur and junior Jordan McDavid tackles a member of the opposing team and attempts to stop Lutheran North from advancing to the
end zone in the 3rd quarter. The crowd and their teammates cheers in response hoping that they will succeed, but in the end, the Vikings lost.
What Sport Did You Play in High School?
“I was a
cheerleader all
four years of high
school. Being a
part of my team
reinforced the
importance of
working together
for the betterment
of the group.”
- math teacher
Lindsay Melnick
transferred from Lutheran South, and
younger players who had not played at the
varsity level before.
“At the beginning of the year, I wasn’t
starting on varsity and I worked hard, and by
the second game of the season, I was starting
on varsity,” sophomore Tyree McKinney
said.
“[We had a] new quarterback and new
everything, so it was a pretty good and
stacked team,” Baur said.
All of the new faces and talent added to
the strength of their roster. Included on that
stacked team was a solid defense that not
only stopped the other teams from scoring,
but also added some points to the board
themselves.
“I have a strong role, and our team had a
“I loved playing
high school and
college soccer...
I made great
friends, traveled
both in and out of
the country, and
played in front of
small and large
crowds.”
- English teacher
David Beck
very good team effort,” Baur said.
This helped the Vikings throughout the
season, including in the game against rival
Parkway Central, where they won 41-6.
“In the first game I started [against
Parkway Central], I was getting a lot of
tackles and yeah it was one of my favorite
games,” McKinney said. “I had to try my
hardest to keep my starting spot on the
varsity team.”
Their hard work, dedication, and
teamwork paid off, resulting in a record of
8-2 going into districts.
“[When] we made it to the state semifinals,
we progressed as a team physically
and mentally,” Smith said.
Unfortunately for the Vikings, their bid
for the state title ended in the last 29 seconds
“There are lots of
mental aspects
to playing golf,
and I learned how
to regulate my
emotions and not
get overly upset
when I was playing
bad, or had a bad
shot.”
- math teacher
Melanie Wilmert
of the game when Lutheran South scored a
touchdown. Despite leading 18-16 after the
third quarter, the Vikings could not hold onto
their advantage.
“Just that fact, that our team came out
ready to play and dominated the entire game.
We played a complete game on offense,
defense, and special teams. [I am] very
proud of our players,” Odenwald said.
Even though the Vikings didn’t make it
to state this year, the younger players remain
optimistic about next season where they aim
to continue to improve and win the state
championship.
“[It felt] pretty good the first time
winning a district championship game, but
we wanted to win state,” Baur said. “[Next
year]: State Championship!”
CHLOE LANCASTER and BRICE TYLER
“Being in marching
band really helped
me have a diverse
friend group early
in high school.
It taught me
discipline, how to
work in groups, and
obviously music.”
- science teacher
Robert Kaminsky

DECEMBER 18
PARKWAY NORTH HIGH SCHOOL
On Oct. 21-22, senior Frederique Weiss
represented Parkway North at the State
Competition at Rivercut Golf Course in
Springfield, Missouri. Making Parkway
North history, Weiss went to state for her
fourth consecutive year with the girls golf
team.
“This year was really exciting getting
Frede to quality for state for the fourth
consecutive year. She’s the first girl in
Parkway North history to qualify four times,
and she’s gotten better and better every
year,” coach Jennifer Mueller said.
Mueller has been at every State
competition with Weiss since her freshman
year.
“My favorite memory is being able to
continue the traditions me and my coach
have done since freshman year,” Weiss said.
“Since I was alone freshman year, me and
Mueller played Uno every night and drove
together everywhere. So every year after, she
would always bring Uno, and we would go
to Colby’s steakhouse at least once, and we
could never forget our selfies.”
Sports 11
Girls Cross Country Places Second
at Districts; Sends Team to State
BRICE TYLER
The Girls Cross Country team earned
enough points to go to the state championship
at Gans Creek Cross Country Course in
Columbia, MO on Nov. 8 and 9, where they
placed twelfth overall.
“It felt really rewarding to just see all
of our work pay off. It was also really
exciting to see everyone’s faces to see how
very excited everyone was and to see that
the team was able to accomplish that,” said
senior Sophia Wong, who ran the course in
20:26:9.
This was only the second time the team
has gone to state since 2007. The last time
was in 2021, when Wong was a freshman.
“It was kind of crazy to me. It’s been that
long,” junior Lily Tindira said. “It was fun,
and I felt pretty good. It was my first time for
cross country, but I went [to state] for track.”
The entire team, including Wong; juniors
Savannah Davis, Leila Deskins, Tindira, and
Amelia Uphofff; sophomores Andie Hylan
and Caroline Strobel-Henry and freshman
Eliana Ramirez, was excited to achieve this
accomplishment but had worked hard and
knew they would make it.
“We kind of knew we were going to
make it to stay as a team,” Tindira said.
The weather and course conditions were
not great that during the state championship,
causing the team to not do as well as they
would have liked.
Senior Sophia Wong and junior Andie Hylan sprint to the finish line at Gans Creek Cross
Country Course. Wong would go on to place 17th and Hylan would go on to place 31st.
“I think it went pretty well. It was not
very good condition, so our times didn’t look
very good, but I think we did what we could
and competed very well,” Wong said.
To get to state, the team had to do well
at districts where they placed second behind
Parkway Central and earned 65 points.
Wong, Tindira, and Hylan all placed in the
top ten.
“It felt pretty good. I ended up beating
a girl at the line that I didn’t know if I could
actually get her,” said Tindira.
Despite the great season, they will lose
Golfer Frede Weiss Returns to State for Final Year
CHLOE LANCASTER
Senior Frederique Weiss swings at the Rivercut
Golf Course on Oct. 21. This was her fourth
year qualifying for the championship.
Weiss has been playing since she was
three-years-old and has been working to
improve her game since day one.
“I was always trying to get better and
minimize the amount of shots I take and get
some key people such as Wong, who will be
graduating. However, most of the runners
who went to state will be back next season.
“[My advice for next year’s team is to]
just continue being really welcoming to
everyone - new people especially - and
just making sure everyone is able to enjoy
running and see how good of a sport it is,”
Wong said.
Returning members hope to repeat going
to state and set new goals for next year.
“I think I’m going to do better next year,”
Tindira said.
better accuracy,” Weiss said.
Weiss shot a 78 at conference leading
her to be named all-conference player of the
year. After that, she moved on to districts
where she shot a 88 and came in 8th place.
“[I] start to mentally prepare about a
week before districts to get myself into the
mindset to do my best and qualify [for state];
really zone in to success,” Weiss said.
Doing well all season and at districts
allowed Weiss to advance to state where she
placed 20th.
While the experience of going to state is
always memorable, this year’s return to state
had a mix of excitement and sadness since
this was her last trip to state.
“This State experience was a lot of fun.
It was very bittersweet. Watching her play
the first day, she did really well. The second
day she did well, but that one was tough as
I walked the last hole with her. That was
our last time to ever walk a hole together,”
Mueller said.
Hard work paid off for Weiss, as she
plans to continue golfing at the College of
St. Mary next year where she will continue
to study nursing.
Boys Swim
Competes
at State
ALEXANDER TYCKSEN and RILEY
GIBBONS
On Nov 15 and 16, juniors Nick Voigt,
Sam Voigt, Aiden Workman, Tanner
Huelsmann, Kane Powell, Austin Knoerle,
and sophomore Barrett Mertens represented
Parkway North at the MSHSAA Boys Class 1
State Championships in St. Peters Rec. Plex.
For many swimmers, advancing to the State
Competition is a great accomplishment.
“I felt good and won my heat in the 100
fly, but I know that I was faster last year at
state. Overall, it was a fun experience, but
I knew I could have done better,” junior
Tanner Huelsmann said.
This year was Huelsmann’s third
consecutive year competing at the state level.
“My favorite part about state is having
the opportunity to compete against people
who are the best in the state, being able to
compete not just against myself but against
others who will push me to be faster than
ever,” Huelsmann said.
The Parkway North Boys Swim Team
placed 49th out of 61 teams, having four
swimmers achieve their personal bests.
“I got 17th at state for my 100 freestyle
and out medley did okay,” junior Sam Voigt
said. “Getting to compete in an individual
race [was my favorite part] because I’ve
never done that before, so it was a lot of fun.
In anticipation of losing this year’s
senior, the underclassmen swimmers are
looking forward to returning to state next
year to dominate the competition.
“My goal for next year is to join the
Parkway North record board with hopefully
more than one event, and to try and help my
team become better than ever,” Huelsmann
said.
“My goal for next year is to place 16th
and make it to state,” Voigt said.
Freshman Barrett Mertens swims the 100-yard
backstroke at the boys’ swim conference on
Oct. 24. He would later go to state after beating
the qualifying time for the 100 back.

12
Year Review
DECEMBER 18
PARKWAY NORTH HIGH SCHOOL
2024 Events Shape Students’ Lives ALEX TYCKSEN AND ETHAN PRIOR
January - March
April - June July - September October - December
On Jan. 31, members of congress
reprimanded Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg
and other social media companies for not
doing enough to protect children online from
sexual exploitation and harassment.
On April 8, a solar eclipse was visible
across North America. The eclipse was
visible in 15 states including Missouri. Areas
in the path of totality experienced up to four
minutes and 30 seconds of darkness.
While campaigning for support on July
13, President-elect Donald Trump was shot
in the right ear during a rally near Butler,
Pennsylvania.
On Oct. 9, the Nobel Prize for Chemistry
was awarded to David Baker, Demis
Hassabis, and John Jumper due to their work
on proteins.
On Feb. 11, The Kansas City Chiefs
won the Super Bowl back to back with a win
of 25-22 against SF 49ers. This is the fourth
time that the Chiefs have won the Super
Bowl.
In May, two groups of cicadas emerged
together, creating a loud and chaotic noise
as millions filled the air. Their buzzing and
movement infuriated millions, including
many people in Saint Louis, as they mated.
On July 26, the Summer Olympics
began. Over the course of the 19-day event,
hundreds of medals were handed out with
the U.S. being awarded the most with 126
medals.
On Oct. 17, according to the Centers
for Disease Control and Prevention, teen
smoking in the U.S. dropped from 2.8
million teen smokers to 2.25 million.
On March 7, the Kingdom of Sweden
ended 190 years of neutrality, by joining the
NATO alliance due to the ongoing conflict
in Ukraine.
Since early June, NASA astronauts Suni
Williams and Butch Wilmore have been
stuck on the ISS due to tech issues with their
spacecraft. NASA and SpaceX are working
to have them both home by February.
On Aug. 1, the U.S., Russia, Germany,
and Belarus agreed to exchange eight people
from Allied imprisonment back to Russian
custody in return for 16 individuals who were
in Russian and Belorussian imprisonment.
On Nov. 6, 2024, former president
Donald Trump wins the U.S. presidential
election, with conservative control for both
the House and Senate.
On March 13, President Joe Biden
passed legislation to ban the distribution
of TikTok unless the parent company,
ByteDance sold the American version of
TikTok to an American company within a
year.
On June 7, beloved “Wheel of Fortune”
host, Pat Sajak retires after 43 years. He has
reported as saying he would rather spend his
remaining years enjoying life.
On Sept. 26, Hurricane Helene, a
Category 4 hurricane hit the Big Bend area
of Florida, causing 277 deaths and billions
in property damage due to strong winds and
flooding.
On Dec. 1, 2024, President Joe Biden
pardons his son, Hunter Biden, breaking his
promise to not do so. The President stated
his concerns that Hunter was being singled
out on account of being his son.