What a year 2009 has been! From scandals to the Swine Flu, to a brand new President, 2009 has certainly kept us interested. Before we continue our way into the New Year, let us first reminisce about what has happened the year before.

The very first thing that most people think of when they look back on 2009 is the inauguration of President Barak Obama. Although it was very controversial for America to elect its first African American President, it was a huge step for our country. Though it was a huge step, many people argue whether or not it was the right one. As any President, you are either loved or hated, and Obama had it the worst when it came to disagreement. You either saw people sporting “NObama” t-shirts or bumper stickers supporting “change.” It seemed whether or not you liked or disliked Obama, everyone was very open about their opinions.

2009 was definitely a year of scandalous events. Who could forget the Tiger Woods scandal? His secret affairs lead his career and multi-million dollar contract sponsors down the drain. Millions of people who looked up to Tiger as a role model were let down the day the news about his infidelity was plastered everywhere on the television and internet. Another scandal was the infamous Taylor Swift and Kanye West moment at the VMAs. Kanye stormed the stage during Swift’s acceptance speech for the award of Best Female Video, grabbed her microphone, and protested in support of Beyonce. This moment sent Taylor Swift fans in an uproar and left many people with a lack of respect for Kanye West. Senior Logan Tate says, "Kanye West deserves a swift kick to the rear."

    The Swine Flu epidemic of 2009 is certainly something that will never be forgotten. Affecting more than 702,000 people and causing more than 11,000 deaths worldwide, the Swine Flu is not just your typical cold and fever. Swine Flu had a direct effect on our high school, as the absentee list was at an all time high during the peak of flu season. Fortunately, we now have vaccinations and better understand ways to prevent the Swine Flu.

Undoubtedly, the year 2009 saw a massive rise in social networking sites; the newest one, Twitter. Twitter has been gaining popularity all year long and it looks pretty promising to continue throughout 2010. Other popular social networking sites still include Facebook and Myspace; however, Facebook is looking to dominate Myspace in the coming year as people are beginning to lose interest in the latter.

Favorites of 2009 (according to a student poll)

Movie: New Moon, Avatar
Song: Boom Boom Pow by The Black Eyed Peas, Tik Tok by Ke$ha, Party in the USA by Miley Cyrus
Fashion Trend: Plaid shirts and skinny jeans
TV Show: The Jersey Shore, Family Guy