BeaknEye_3_11_ISSUU
11/3/2011
3:12 PM
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Beak ‘n’ Eye
Hunting for bear – page 8
Volume 52 Issue 3
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West High School
3505 W. Locust St. Davenport, Iowa 52804
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Friday, November 4, 2011
OCCUPY AMERICA
Photo by Craig Ruttle/Newsday/MCT
DRAWING A LINE - Demonstrators with the Occupy Wall Street movement face off with the New York City police department in Time Square on Oct. 15
Occupy Wall Street spreads throughout the country By Hieu Nguyen
The Occupy Wall Street protest that started about a month ago in New York City spread to the Quad-Cities on Oct. 22. About 200 people marched across Centennial Bridge and rallied in LeClaire Park in Davenport. Members of the Occupy Wall Street movement are protesting tax breaks for the rich and the government bail out of banks in 2008 because some bankers and brokers used citizens’ money inappropriately and faced bankruptcy. The people oppose the inequality of wealth, corporate greed, and corporate influence upon the government. There are many jobless people who have not worked for years. The protesters are liberals, libertarians, political independents, anarchists, and environmentalists. They want more social justice and to stop the lack of financial growth for lower income people compared to higher income people. That gap is widening. “We are the 99 percent” is the slogan that the protesters use, referring to the fact that most people do not belong to the wealthest one percent of U.S. citizens. There are some wealthy people who support the protest and some famous people show up and send their support. Other major cities in the United States also begin protesting like the New York protest. Around the world, over 900 cities have had their own ‘Occupy’ protests. One West teacher supports the movement. “Why attend an Occupy event? It is
history in the making...and because I am part of the 99 percent,” said Jodi Zimmerman, social studies teacher. “The last time we had such income disparity–1928–our economy did not fare very well. I am interested in restoring some balance in the power structure via stronger unions and greater enforcement of tax codes/laws.” “We all must work together to remove the stain of the Citizen United decision from our country,” she said. “Impeaching Clarence Thomas, passing an amendment, and whatever else it takes to right a wrong that imperils our nation and our future.” Last month the protesters marched on the police headquarters, Lower Manhattan, Brooklyn bridge, and Time Square recruitment, and 992 people were arrested. “The protest is interesting to follow,” said Steven Baldry, social studies teacher. “Our economy has inspired people to make their arguments more public. Concerns about our shrinking middle class are being felt by many groups including college students, union workers, and many more.” A student said she learned more about the inequalities at the QC rally. “I thought it was fun and cool. I enjoyed all stuff that I learned. I like that we’re not consumers, but people,” said junior Ashleigh Gray. “Students should care about Occupy Wall Street because they’re going to live with decisions that are being made today for most of their life,” said George Kiefer, social studies teacher. I think that they’re huge in inequalities in pay that’s quite unfair.”
Why the fuss
By Hieu Nguyen
art by Kayla Garcia
Photo by Hieu Nguyen
SIGN OF THE TIMES – This protester holds a sign that he made for the Occupy Quad-Cities rally Sept. 17 in LeClaire Park, Davenport.
The U.S. Treasury and Federal Reserve System bailed out some big banks and businesses with tax dollars in 2008 after many financial institutions lost money when the home mortgage industry failed. Banks had made loans too easy to get and when people defaulted, the banks lost money. This came after Congress deregulated banks in the late 1980’s. In 2008, Troubled Asset Relief Program (TARP) was formed through the Emergency Economic Stabilization Act passed by Congress; $700 billion were given to this program in order to help the business. In the same year, Fannie Mae/Freddie Mae was placed under conservatorship of the Federal Housing Financial Agency and the cost was $40 billion; the money must increase now. The first government bailout was in 1970. Penn Central Railroad bankrupted on June 21, 1970. Congress passed Financial Institution Reform Recovery and Enforcement Act in 1989 in order to help savings and loans from losing money. The airline industry got money to help through the Air Transportation Safety and Stabilization Act in 2001 and the cost in 2008 is $18.6 billion. In 2009, Bank of America received $45 billion through TARP.
BeaknEye_3_11_ISSUU
11/3/2011
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2 News
West collects food Beak ‘n’ Eye
By Krista Johnson
Photo by Erin Pershall
CANS AND MONEY FOR THE FOOD DRIVE - Jodi Zimmerman sits in the tennis court, collecting cans and money for the Hunger Drive during the 2011 Hunger Hoedown on Oct. 6.
HUNGER in the United States
• The United States Department of Agriculture reports that 1 in 6 Americans are food insecure • Nearly 49 million Americans are facing hunger and more than 16 million are children
• 36% of households served by the Feeding America network have one or more adults working
• According to the US Census Bureau, in 2010, 21 million people lived in working-poor families • 40% of the food that people produce is thrown away. COMPILED BY: Krista Johnson SOURCE: riverbendfoodbank.org
The Student Hunger Drive kick off was Oct. 3 and with only a few days left till loading day on Nov. 11, Student Senate members and many others in this school are scrambling to find any spare cans left to be donated. West has participated in the student hunger drive for nearly 25 years. The goal of the food drive is to simply help those in need of food. Last year participating schools collected $500,000 worth of meals, according to riverbendfoodbank.org. This year West Student Senate has been trying to help exceed that collection. “I feel it’s important to donate because we are giving back to the community and helping others builds character,” said Shyanne Saladino, Student Senate president. Student Senate has held three major food drive events in order to increase student and faculty participation in donating. The first event held was the “Hunger Hoe Down” where students joined on the tennis courts to listen to music and participate in fall activities like bobbing for apples. Senate collected nearly $300 and 3 to 4 full boxes of food. Senate also held a dodge ball tournament on Thursday, Nov. 3 where students gave $2 or five
Students get flu vaccines
By Hieu Nguyen
Davenport elementary students received free seasonal flu vaccines at their schools from Oct. 10 to Nov. 1. Parents had to give permission to the school if they wanted their kids to get the vaccines. Last year, 9,476 children got the free vaccines. Influenza is a contagious disease caused by the influenza virus. Nasal secretions, sneezing, and coughing can spread this flu. The flu and the cold are totally different. The symptoms of the flu are runny or stuffy nose, headache, cough, fatigue, sore throat, fever/chills, and muscle aches. Elementary students were given the shots because they are young and can get the germs easily. They have not fully developed good hygiene, such as good hand washing and covering their noses when they sneeze. These children often share drinks and touch everything with their hands. “Students need to have the flu vaccines,” said Linda Manders, school nurse. “The vaccines keep them healthy and keep them from H1N1 and influenza. The diseases H1N1 and influenza can cause death so we want to be proactive.” There are two types of vaccines that students can get: inactivated vaccines (or flu shots) are given by injection with a needle, and live, attenuated-vaccine
Friday, November 4, 2011
is sprayed into nostrils. The protection of the vaccine will develop in two weeks, and it lasts for a year. Each vaccine costs $20, and the money comes from donations in Quad-Cities, Genesis funds, individuals and local business. Five-year-old children and younger, elderly, and people with compromised immune systems, chronic illness or heart disease have high risks of getting serious complications from the flu. Dr. Louis Katz brought the idea of getting vaccines for the elementary students. Scott Health Department, Clinton Health Department, Genesis Health Foundations, and Clinton VND Foundations sponsor the influenza vaccine 2011-2012. “It is important for the students to get the flu shots,” said Michele Cullen, nurse at Clinton Genesis Hospital. “It’s to prevent the influenza, 200,000 people are hospitalized because of the flu. The majority of those 200,000 people are elders and young children. Some years up to 36,000 people died, also if you get flu, you miss work or school and it’s up from five to ten days to get better.” According to Dr. Vidya Sundareshan, assistant professor at Southern Illinois University School of Medicine’s Department of Internal Medicine, people are infectious one day before the symptoms start and three to five days after.
cans to participate. The students were able to create their own teams of eight to ten players with their own team name. On Friday, Nov. 4 Student Senate organized a notorious “‘stache mob” where students paid $1 for a fake mustache that everyone wore on Friday. The idea was to resemble a flash mob, which Senate felt would amuse students and faculty, with surprising administrators who were not informed of the event. Other incentives to donate at West involve some teachers giving extra credit or allowing students to choose their seat in class if they give a certain amount of cans. There is also a first block competition that gives the class with the most donated food a pizza party. A new competition was created this year among extracurricular activities that will also win a pizza party for donating the most cans. Students can bring in cans to any class or to the main office until the very last day of the competition. The most needed items include rice and pasta, tuna, canned fruits/vegetables, soups, stews, chili, peanut butter, and cereal. Before loading day on Nov. 9, Senate will visit neighborhoods and businesses around the city asking for donations. They will also pick up canned goods from
the feeder schools that help West like Smart, Williams, and Walcott Intermediate. While not all of the donations are in, Senate is not sure they have done as well this year as previous years. “There is not a lot of participation with students these days,” Saladino said. West has placed second to United Township in the Student Hunger Drive competition for at least four years now. “Each time it’s only been by a couple thousand pounds, which is not a lot,” adds Saladino. After putting all the boxes of food into trucks on loading day, the food is taken to River Bend Foodbank where it is all weighed to determine the winners of the drive. While winning gives one school bragging rights and some prizes, the real satisfaction in donating food deals with the people it helps. Food collected at River Bend Foodbank is distributed among 22 counties across Iowa and Illinois; 40 percent of food donated reaches the hands of a child. “To the kids who have donated I want to say thank you. It doesn’t matter if you have brought in one can or 500, it makes a difference either way. Thank you so much for helping,” Saladino said.
By Erin Pershall
Photo by Sebastian Roe
West High teacher dies ping and being with her family. “I really didn’t know her until last year when she first got sick. I started going into her class and helped her do her food evaluations. I would also help her carry her stuff inside,” aide Carol Miller said. “We had a work relationship that turned into a great friendship. When she quit coming to school, I would go up to the hospital to see her. She even wrote a letter to her students explaining her situation. I’m really going to miss her,” Miller added. “We found out that she really liked shopping, gardening, and she liked to spend time with her boyfriend,” Ratkiewicz said. “She really loved her socks and holidays! She had hundreds of pairs!” Miller said. “My favorite memory of her was when Mrs. Moore a few other teachers and I were all having a fun conversation about her and her love letters,” Ratkiewicz said. “I had Mrs. Moore as a teacher,” sophomore, Samantha Napier said. “She was a really nice lady. She was caring and cared about people’s grades. I am going to really miss her,”
By Erin Pershall West High recently lost Nancy Ann Moore, a family and consumer science teacher, who passed away on Monday, Oct. 17 from pancreatic cancer. “We found out last year over spring break that she had it. Who knows how long she had had it and not realized it,” said Megan Ratkiewicz, a family and consumer science teacher. Moore was born July 11, 1949 in Fargo North Dakota. After she graduated, she attended North Dakota State University and received her bachelors’ degree in family and consumer science. Moore also held national titles in family and consumer science. Before settling in Davenport, Moore lived in Germany for two years with her late husband. After two years, they moved to Davenport Iowa. Moore then soon took a job teaching family and consumer science at North Scott. Later, she worked at West. Moore enjoyed doing many things such as gardening, shop-
Rapper chases dreams
summited by Antony Johnson
PRATICE - Anthony Johnson, senior performs in his own home studio.
By Arina Russkikh Nowadays almost everybody has a hobby. Anthony Johnson is a senior at West and his hobby is making music – rap. Johnson raps his written lyrics over his friend Anthony Hollingshed’s original produced beats. He has been rapping for around four years. The name of this musical project is “.nuLOVE”. The two-man group records at Johnson’s home studio. Almost all parts of his raps are about daily life, the things he has either gone through, and/or are currently going through. “I try to reach out to the listener and make the subject matter something they can relate to,” said Johnson. He says that he doesnt have a favorite rapper, but he can relate most to Blu, J. Cole and Kendrick Lamar. Hearing music that he can relate to made him want to start rapping. “We both take it more seriously than a hobby,” said Johnson. They hope that it can turn out to be a future career. You can listen to “.nuLOVE” music on Youtube or on their Facebook Music Page.
Journalists learn tricks of trade at conference
By Samie Koberg Seven Beak ‘n’Eye staff members and some yearbook members spent the day attending the state conference on Oct. 27 at the University of Iowa to attend four workshops of choice. Professors talked with the reporters about design, photography, and writing. The Beak ‘n’ Eye won two honorable mentions in writing and graphics from the Iowa High School Press Association in the Spring Newspaper Contest Sweepstakes. “I’ve been really pleased with the results of their efforts,” said advier Steve Lyle about how dedicated the staff members have been working. The conference taught students about the aspects of writ-
GETTING SEASONAL SHOTS – Davenport Schools provide free flu shots for the employees. Steve Lyle, language arts, gets his shot Oct. 28 at Williams Intermediate School.
The All State Marching Band Competition was held on Oct. 15 at Muscatine High School. There were other schools from all over that attended as well. For this event, the schools are judged on a scale of one to four, with four being the lowest and one being the highest. West scored a two for their performance. Band members thought that they did really well.
ing and producing a paper. 14 students make up the newspaper class, which meets everyday. The Beak ‘n’ Eye also has other reporters outside of class that help write for the paper. Each section of the paper has an editor and co-editor that work to revise the paper for its next and upcoming editions. “I felt that the journalism trip was very informative,” said editor-in-chief Erin Pershall. “They gave good details about everything you needed to know, they presented a good picture of what journalism is like as a career, and in a way it kinda scared me. I think newspaper is a fun class with motivated people but some people don’t realize what it takes to do this in the real world.”
“Mott’s band has performed really well this year,” sophomore Tony Olsen said. The band students’ day was all planned out. “We left West around 11:00 and we went to Muscatine High School. We performed at 1:15 and we got back to West at around 3:30. Then we got pictures taken of us,” said sophomore Samantha Thompson. “I liked doing the show because I felt like we did a good job and it felt good to see people in the crowd focused on the band,” Thompson said.
photo by Steve Lyle
AWARDS - Krista Johnson and Erin Pershall holding the awards.
By Chelsey Davis The cheerleading team will return to state competitions in Des Moines, Iowa, on Nov. 5 in hopes that they will keep their title as the best co-ed team in Iowa. They will perform a 2 ½ minute routine consisting of stunts, tumbling, dance, and jumps. “My goal is to push them to their fullest potential in order to make them champions,” said Melanie Gray, head coach. “Practices are tough but rewarding. I hope they will take the lessons they learn in cheerleading and be able to apply them to their lives.” Captains of the team are Savanna Bramstedt, senior, Brad Rollins, senior, and Catherine Goodall, sophomore. They practice from three to four times a week for 2 to 3 hours hoping to accomplish their best.
Robotics Club takes trip By Becca Sandry
Teamwork and communication were the key factors the Engineering Club focused on when they traveled to Vinton, Iowa, on Sept. 10 to reveal their new game. “We went to seminars and revealed the competition,” says Chris Houser, senior in the Robotics Club. “We had a lot of fun and met people from other schools.” “The Engineering Club works to solve everyday problems and the Robotics team builds robotic instruments,” says adviser Jason Franzenberg. The team looks forward to their next game that is scheduled to come out this school year.
Orchestra performs By Hanna Dipple
The West High Orchestra had their first concert of the year on Tuesday, Oct. 25. “The concert went well; we played our dynamics like we were supposed to,” said Charlene Dornburg, orchestra director. Dornburg said the students are not just playing the notes on the page anymore, they are playing what they feel, and they are doing better than last year. She also feels the orchestra is more united. Dornburg hopes this continues in the next upcoming holiday concert, which will be at 7:30 p.m. Nov. 29 at Annie Palmer Hall.
Spanish Club has fiesta
Spanish Club’s Tostado Fiesta was held Wednesday, Oct. 12, at Emeis Park. The Fiesta is a yearly annual event in which Spanish-speaking students get together for some fun at the park. The Tostado Fiesta was available to Spanish Club students and the teachers involved. They had Mexican food catered in and they had live entertainment. The club plays games such as lotería and they also have a piñata. Todd Gann, one of the Spanish Club advisers, said that the fiesta is “fun for Spanish world language students” and “we just always like to have students to get involved.”
To advertise in the Dec. 9 issue, call 563 386-5500 ext. 161
Don’t drink and drive Don’t text and drive Both can be deadly behind the wheel
briefs Cheerleaders to compete
By Shauna Kay Foss
photo by Angel Lyle
High school band competition performed in Muscatine
DRUMMING UP SPIRIT Blake Wolfe, left, plays the drums for West High’s drum line and band to pump up the students and faculty for the Homecoming assembly.
News 3
Beak ‘n’ Eye
Friday, November 4, 2011
AAAA Driving School
Classes held at West High
3:15 - 5:15 p.m. Room 102
563 332-6941
Steve Verdon, instructor
4adrivingschool.com
11/3/2011
3:13 PM
Page 3
4 Trends
WORLD REACHES
Beak ‘n’ Eye
By Kelsey Ralfs
Art by Kayla Garcia
EARTH: POP. 7 BILLION- The U.N. marked the world’s population reaching 7 billion on Oct. 31. The highest rates of growth are in underdeveloped nations. It is predicted that the world’s population will reach 8 billion in 2025 and 9 billion in 2043.
By the end of October, the world’s population reached an estimated 7 billion. While the expansion of the human race’s cultures and traditions is a good thing, the vastly increasing population could eventually become deadly. According to Envirotopics, the first billion took from the dawn of humanity until 1830, the second billion took only 100 years—from 1830 to 1930, and three billion more arrived in the next 60 years. The world’s population is growing faster and faster every year. Renee Lietz, AP Biology teacher, said, “I think [the population of the world] is going to continue to grow and I think it’s unfortunate.” The two main factors being incorporated into the world’s growing population are birth-rate and death-rate. “We can’t put birth control in the water of third-world countries and we need to stop trying to solve other country’s problems,” said Lietz. With improved health care and nutrition, people are living a lot longer than they used to. Young families are finding themselves wanting bigger families, and in countries like India, a bigger family is better. Indians prize their sons more than daughters because when a daughter gets married, they have to
How can we slow the population rate? By Kelsey Ralfs
Since the world reached a shocking 7 billion people this month, countries are beginning to notice there’s a problem and they’re doing something about it. Countries like China, Japan, and India are taking drastic measures in order to control their populations. The Family Planning Policy that was introduced in China in 1978 restricts married, urban couples to having only one child, while allowing exemptions for several cases, including rural couples, ethnic minorities, and parents without any siblings themselves. It was created by the Chinese government to cure social, economic, and environmental problems in China. This policy prevented between 250-300 million births from the start until 1979, and 400 million births from 1970 to 2011. Although this policy seems to be working, it is not popular with many citizens. An increase in abortions has led to a problem in China’s gender balance. Women are aborting their children until a son is conceived. While this policy is helping with an overall decrease in popu-
Get Noticed
7
lation, it’s also causing an imbalance with gender. India’s population is the higher than any other country. Women are having children non-stop because they have no opinion in the matter. If their husbands want kids, they make their wives have them. Luckily, existing hospitals and health care facilities are making birth control available to these women for free. Just over half of the married women in India use birth control. Many women use contraceptives because they are legal and their husbands cannot forbid them from using it. Traditionally, Japan is known for having big families; however, today there seems to be a decrease in family size. Women are beginning to wait until their thirties to have a family, and even then, they usually have only up to two kids. Women have more power today to make their own decisions, and that’s a large factor when looking at the population decrease. Whether it’s birth control, a forced policy, or women having more rights, countries are taking notice of the drastically growing population and their doing what they have to in order to fix it.
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Friday, November 4, 2011
Leisure 5
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Taking the time to cook a meal has benefits
BILLION
“auction” her off to the husband’s family. This causes the population in India to have a an estimated 893 girls for every 1,000 boys at birth. Women sometimes even have abortions if they find out their going to give birth to a girl. Because of this, ultrasounds are illegal. The United States has the most evenedout population between elders and youngsters. Some countries aren’t so lucky, though. Places like Kenya are being obliterated by HIV/AIDs. Women are uneducated and have to find a way to take care of their families, so some resort to prostitution. Because of prostitution, sexually transmitted diseases are being passed rapidly, causing middle-aged people to decrease. In fact, there are more elders and kids than middleaged adults. Developed nations like Japan are the opposite. Japanese women today are having fewer kids than before. It used to be very important in Japan to have a big family, but now that women have more rights, they are deciding to wait until around 30 to have kids. The entire world is affecting the rapidly increasing population. With more competition for food and natural resources, the risk of poverty, starvation and war increases.
A Lost Art
More teens don’t know how to cook homemade entrees By Blake Rees
spending the money on healthy organic things will hit their pockets harder than TV dinners. Home-made meals may cost more money, not to mention how time-consuming they can be, but in the end you may be paying more for health care ailments. There are many dinners that you can make in a longer time period that will have your mouth watering from the satisfaction of delicious food that is also very healthy, such as black bean and squash soup with garden fresh produce. Most teens don’t seem interested in learning to cook because they haven’t been brought up in that lifestyle. Most
Coming home to a home-made meal is becoming more obsolete as time passes by in our society. The joy of walking into a room filled with the aroma of cheesy potatoes, rich moist, spicy meat, and home-made buttery biscuits. Now days people come home from a long day of school or work toss a TV dinner in the microwave and indulge in a not so great meal. Many consequences play a part in not knowing how to cook when you reach adulthood—some Recipes: Organizations: greater than others. Betty Crocker Cookbook www.slowfood.com Many frozen dinners or fast food restaurants www.all-recipes.com facebook.com/slowfoodqc are packed with an overabundance of sodium and calories, resulting in a meal that isn’t as filling or satisfying leaving you cranky and tired for the rest of the day. parents are to busy or physically drained. Also health problems are linked to eating refined carbo“Parents are tired, they work all day and don’t want to hydrates and added sugars on a daily basis Obesity and cook for their kids so they just give their children money to heart disease are much more costly in so many ways. go out to eat.” says Catherine Aronson of Blue Grass, Iowa. Many people don’t know that a healthy home-cooked meal Some students do like cook traditional home-made is packed with healthy vitamins and minerals that will make meals. for a healthier person and leave a person feeling better after “I’m head chef at Antonella’s pizza, and I also cook at their meal. home,”said junior Dylan Wiley. “My favorite meals to cook Many students stick to the unhealthy, easy things to are chicken alfredo and home-made enchiladas.” cook. That is packed with an overabundance of sodium and Aronson tries to save money by cooking at home. “It’s a calories, resulting in a meal that isn’t as filling or satisfying lot cheaper because I grow my vegetables in my garden. leaving you cranky and tired for the rest of the day. Then I can them (The packing and preserving of food in “ Kool-aide and frozen pizza is where it’s at; I hardly ever cans or jars subjected to sterilizing temperatures.) and save eat home-made meals.” said Carlos Nava, sophomore. them for later dates, saving the time and money to go to the TV dinners are also a popular choice because most think store.”
For more information
Photo by Kelsey Ralfs
SOLUTION! Some think that a possible solution to the increasing demographics could be a “one child per family” tactic. This would give a couple the ability to have only one kid, helping to reduce the growth rates.
Movie
‘Paranormal Activity 3’
REVIEWS
BeaknEye_3_11_ISSUU
It is the third film to the Paranormal Activity series and serves as a prequel. It involves the two sisters who were seen in earlier episodes as adults. Katie and Kristi Ray share a two-level home with their mother, Julie, and her boyfriend, Dennis. The girls are aware of a presence in the house, perhaps an Imaginary Friend, although perhaps not so imaginary. Struggling with the suspicion of what this unknown spirit is, Dennis and Julie are determined to figure it out. The acting was top of the line. With many scenes that will have you jumping from your seats, it ranked 6.4 for scariest movie of the year. The film broke financial records upon release, setting a new record for a midnight opening for a horror film, the best opening day for a horror film in the United States, and the highest opening for any film in October.
By Blake Rees
When Angel Lyle, director of food service for the Kahl Home for the Aged, comes home from work around 5:30 p.m., the last thing you would expect her to do is head for the kitchen to start supper. Being around food all day does not prevent her from cooking a home-cooked meal at least five times a week for her family. This week’s menu included a black bean curried soup, an Indian dal served on quinoa, and stir-fried pumpkin squash, greens, and other vegetables served on brown rice. “I like to be adventurous and try a variety of good tasting foods,” she said. “You can’t get that in prepared foods or at most restaurants.” Lyle believes in the slow foods movement, which is the trend of people taking more time to buy local foods, to cook it from scratch, and to the take time to enjoy the meal. Slow Food is a nonprofit organization founded in 1989 with over 100,000 members from 150 countries. Its mission is to promote “a world which all people can access and enjoy food that is good for them, good for those who grow it, and good for the planet.” Slow Food Quad Cities meets locally to share good food and to learn about promoting locally grown food. Although cooking slowly runs counter to most American’s fast-paced, fast food lifestyle, Lyle said she sees many benefits to cooking from scratch, even after a busy day. “It unwinds me,” she said. “The process of gathering, chopping, and cooking slows me down.” Instead of sitting on the couch, she starts cooking and it energizes her. “The sights and smells give me a boost of energy and enjoyment.” Handling raw vegetables and seasonings gives her a tangible connection to nature. “It wakes up our senses— the sight, touch and smell of preparing different foods. It gives me more gratitude for the nourishment I receive.” There are so many raw foods that are not eaten much in our culture, said Lyle, who grew up in Germany. “Americans like iceberg lettuce and miss out on lettuce available at the family grocery store,” she said. “Why not explore the taste of a dark, red-tinged leaf lettuce, tender baby lettuce mixtures, a slightly bitter escarole or endive or even a nutty mache?” She enjoys being creative in the kitchen, trying new foods and changing established recipes. She also likes having conversations with her husband as he helps. The slow food approach lets Lyle provide love and nourishment to her family. “I get peace of mind that I took care of myself and family with a good meal.” She said she hopes the skills and traditions that slow cooking creates have been passed on to her adult children. “I want them to know the enjoyment of cooking and know what good food tastes like, “she said. She hopes they will see the benefits with their family and friends. “I give because I’ve been given much. It keeps my heart open and mindful to what is important to me.”
Technology
Music
J- Reyez
J-Reyez, born in South Korea, is a newly discovered rapper. The (J) stands for his first name Justin, and the (Reyez) stands for his fast elevation since stepping into his music game. He is only 18 years old, but has more lyrical talent than other mature rappers in the game. As J-Reyez matured, his icons were Jin, 2Pac, Biggie, Jadakiss, and Lil Wayne. His style is very unique, with his amazing dance skills, and off the chart vocals. Aside from his hot lyrical talent, he also does some productions as well, from hip-hop to R&B beats. He has proved himself to be a multi-talented artist and producer. He displays a disciplined work ethic rarely seen at his age, with a confidence level to kill for. Although you’re not hearing J-Reyez name yet, you’ll be sure to be hearing it a lot more often in the near future.
By Blake Rees
i-Phone 4S
The iPhone 4S was released this past October. This iPhone is different from any of the iPhones’ before; including the shape, the display, the camera and much more. The shape of the new iPhone has a square effect, unlike former iPhones, which shape was more circular. The back of the iPhone 4 has a flat back and flat sides. This new shape is much more efficient. The display is called a ‘Retina’ which means you can see photos and words a whole lot better than with any of the other iPhones.The new phone also has two cameras, one in the front and one in the back. This phone is for anyone that enjoys new technology, and clear photos. With Christmas just around the corner, many deals will be around for one, so go get one already!
By Haley Benisch
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6 Focus
Beak ‘n’ Eye
Friday, November 4, 2011
Hispanics can look forward to the future knowing they have options to help them excell.
Hero Street honors Latinos from Silvis who served in war by Edvin Turcinhodzic
Photo by Edvin Turcinhodzic
photo by Bethany Puetsch
Bronze memorial at the Hero Street Memorial Park in Silvis, IL
There is an interesting history on the Latinos in the Midwest. During the 1930’s people of Mexican descendants came to the Midwest and settled in a small town called Silvis Ill, with a population of 6,900. Nearby was the Rock Island Railroad Line. Because of the company’s constant need to maintain the railroads it was a necessity that the workers lived near by. The Latinos took part in various laborious tasks and jobs to maintain a semi-stable lifestyle. It was important that the residents bring up their children to seek a better life than to undergo the hardship as they did. Families were large; some consisted of up to twelve children. The hardships were bad enough that it even motivated the children themselves to seek a better life. When the call to serve their country came during WWII, the young men and women heard the call and volunteered to join the Navy, Marines or Air Corps or were drafted into the Army. Even though their lives were not great at the time, they were ready to fight for their country to preserve all the freedom of our great nation. It has been documented that as of the present day there have been over 100 young men and women from Second Street who have given service to the Untied States Military Forces. Because of the contributions of these young American the street was renamed Hero Street USA in May 1967, by former Mayor of Silvis, William Tatmen. On Oct. 30, 1971 a city park was built and dedicated as Hero Street Park in honor of the eight deceased service men from Hero Street USA. The park contains a pictorial monument, a playground and a Pavilion. The monument contains pictures and biographies of the eight-deceased veteran from Hero Street. Veterans Day will be celebrated on Nov. 11, commemorating all those who served for the military forces. This is the day that we ensure veterans know that we deeply appreciate the sacrifices they have made in the lives to keep our country free.
Latino’s face several roadblocks For many years Hispanic Americans have faced discrimination, racism, segregation, and many different roadblocks. Hispanics are the largest minority in the united states make up around 16 percent of the population. Hispanics are commonly assumed to be Mexican when in reality Hispanics are a group of races that share a common language and cultural origin. Hispanics can include Mexicans, Cubans, Puerto Ricans, Spain, central and south Americans also anyone from the Caribbean. One of the major problems for Hispanic Americans is education. The dropout rate for Hispanics was 17.6 percent in 2009 and predicted to increase in the years to come, according to nces.ed.gov. This is more than three times the dropout rate of whites and almost double the dropout rate of African Americans. In 2010 around 19 percent of Hispanics attended college and 13 percent
Joseph Marion Hernandez
school and just stop there, or they might not graduated from college. About 87 percent finish high school at all. I want to go to colof Hispanics do, however, value some form lege, especially since I’m going to live in of a higher education. “I feel so proud of myself that I’m going California, and I love shopping so much I need to get a good job so I can afford to be one of the few Hispanics that actually things,” says junior Jennifer Contreraz. goes to college. I want to be someone Job and carreer options important for many Hispanics are also limthat othI want to go to college ited and often don’t pay well. ers can especially since I’m Hispanic Americans often have look at to work low-paying manual and not going to live in labor jobs. In 2010 the median only California and I love weekly pay for a latino was only respect $532 before taxes. The recesbut make shopping so much I sion has hit the Hispanic them need to get a good job Americans the hardest of all, want to unemployment for Hispanic be eduso I can afford things’ Americans has skyrocketed to cated and 11.8 percent while unemployshow ment for other non Hispanic them it is workers was only 7.9 percent. a good idea to go to college,” said junior According to a poll done by the Huffington Martin Aguilera. Post, Hispanics face the most discrimina“A lot of Mexicans get involved with tion over any other race including African drugs and alcohol and they will finish high
“
Joseph Marion Hernandez was the first Latino member of the United States Congress. He was born in St. Augustine, Florida, when it was still a colony. When the territory of Florida was established, he was elected as a delegate to the 17th Congress and served from 1822-1823. In 1845, Hernandez ran for The United States Senate, but was defeated. He then moved to Cuba with his family for the remainder of his life, passing on in 1857.
Americans and women. About 57 percent of of Latinos say they have experienced a lot of discrimination from others, and 61percent of the public agrees that Hispanics do have to deal with a significantly large amount of discrimination. “Sometimes people just look at you differently, or they will make fun of me because the way I talk with my accent,” said sophomore Alondria Martinez. “One time I was in class and we were talking about immigration laws and the illigals that come to America, and the rest of the class called me ‘alien’ for the rest of the term. Even though they thought that it was funny, it was pretty hurtful,” said sophomore Lily Solis. “It’s like out of all the races at West and all the different groups and clicks we have here, the Mexicans and Hispanics will always be looked at differently like we are below at the bottom of the totem pole,” Martinez explains.
Chang-Diaz was the first Latino astronaut. He received his bachelor degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Connecticut and a doctorate in applied plasma physics from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. He achieved his dream of being an astronaut, entering space for the first time in 1986. He is one of the only two astronauts to have served on seven space missions.
Franklin Chang-Diaz
By Bethany Puetsch
Latino Heritage Month
photo by Bill Roth/Anchorage Daily News/MCT
Ten-year-olds dance together during Hispanic/Latino Heritage Day at The Anchorage Museum, on October 3. By Emily Thumman
Latino Heritage Month was created as a celebration of independence for all Latin countries from September 15 to October 15. Seven Latin American countries--Costa Rico, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, Chile and Nicaragua--declared their independence during the month of September. In the year 1968, Lyndon Johnson proclaimed
First in their Field
National Hispanic Heritage Week. In 1988, it was expanded to a month long celebration. During this month, many people partake in festivals to celebrate Latin food, music, and heritage. Mariachi bands play and festivals are held in communities around the country. This month is to celebrate and honor the ancestry and traditions that are unique to the Hispanic culture.
Roughly 16.3 percent of the United States population is Hispanic, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. Although this is a large portion of our population Hispanic Americans still have to deal with discriminations and racism. One group, the League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC), is working to gain equality and their rights as Americans. LULAC’s main goal is “to advance the economic condition, educational attainment, political influence, health, and civil rights of the Hispanic population of the United States.” LULAC was established 82 years ago in February of 1929. With over 880 councils nationwide LULAC is now the largest Hispanic civil rights advocacy group in the United States. LULAC has fought hard to gain opportunities for Hispanic Americans as well as full access to the political process. The main focus areas for LULAC are “civic participation, civil rights,
economic development, education, health, housing, immigration, leadership, public service, technology, women, youth, young adults, and the elderly. Through out the country LULAC holds voter registration drives and health fairs,” according to a local LULAC official. LULAC is also famous for the LULAC National Scholarship fund. The Local Davenport LULAC council #10 host’s weekly bingo and all proceeds go to the scholarship fund. Council #10 has awarded over a quarter of a million dollars since the early 60’s. Every year LULAC has a competition for girls to become the lulac queen. The girls voulenteer to sell raffle tickets for a dollar a piece and the girl who sells the most becomes the LULAC queen. The 2011 LULAC queen is West High School senior Veridiana Mendoza. “I’m really proud of myself,” Mendoza says, “I feel like I’ve really contributed and done something helpful and meaning ful.”
stories by Emily Thumann art by Kayla Lyle Garcia
Carlos Santana was the first Latino to be in the Rock n’ Roll hall of fame and is known as a legend to most people. He was the founding member of the Santana Blues Band. After they released their first album, the group’s blend of blues, rock, and afro-Cuban music became a legend. As the band changed, Santana become the only remaining member of the original trio. His most recent album, “Supernatural,” sold over 10 million copies and won eight Grammies.
Carlos Santana
Photo by Emily Thumann
Decorated street sign for Hero St. in Silvis, IL
LULAC Club raises money for local scholarships
STANDING PROUD- Sophomore Lily Solis is proud of her Hispanic heritage and looks forward to her future with the plan of attending college and a successful job.
By Bethany Puetsch
Focus 7
Beak ‘n’ Eye
Friday, November 4, 2011
Esteban Bellan
Esteban Bellán was the first Latin American to play major league baseball. Bellán learned how to play baseball while he was a student at Fordham University. He played for the newly created Fordham Rose Hill baseball club. In 1869 Bellán joined the Troy Haymakers and played third base until 1872. In 1871 the Haymakers joined the National Association, which became the National League in 1876. The Haymakers later became the New York Giants, now the San Francisco Giants.
Christy Turlington was the first Latin supermodel. In the late 1980’s she began in a series of Calvin Klein ads which instantly made the 5’10” model an international celebrity and launched her into the top rank of high fashion models. She has worked on dozens of modeling contracts with companies including Maybelline Cosmetics and Versace. She has appeared on over 500 magazine covers and has been featured in several professional photobooks.
Christy Turlington
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8 Sports
Beak ‘n’ Eye
Friday, November 4, 2011
Sports 9
Beak ‘n’ Eye
Friday, November 4, 2011
Football team goes without win By Becca Sandry
Don’t be a nerd, go hunt bears with Verd
THE END–Kyle Verdon stands with his trophy bear after the hunting trip to Superior, Wisconsin. This bear weighed a total of 375 pounds.
By Ashley VanWinkle
When the average person hunts, what do they hunt, deer, goose, duck, pheasant? Well for Steve Verdon and two sons Kyle Verdon, 15, and Bryan Verdon, 11, deer and bird hunting just wasn’t enough, they wanted more, so instead they took a weekend trip to Superior Wisconsin and hunted, believe it or not, bears. Bear hunting is very popular in the state of Wisconsin, so getting bear tags took about 10 years. The plan was for Steve Saladino to join Kyle and Steve on the trip, but he was unable to go so he gave his tag to Bryan. Bryan, since he is only 11, was hunting as a “youth mentor hunter” and was unable to hold both the gun and ammo together until it was time to shoot, but still he had a blast. “If the youth don’t get involved, hunting will be over,” Steve Verdon said.
The hunting day doesn’t start at what an average Joe would consider a decent time, Steve Verdon explained. “We started hunting at about 2:30 to 3:00 in the morning, and didn’t end until about midnight.” They begin by baiting the bear, which in other terms is placing food in between four sand dunes and watching the bears tracks. A little while after they set up the trap, they go to check it out and when they see that the tracks are left they release the hunting dogs. There are five different types of dogs that hunt with the group, chasers, bayers, load dogs, cold trackers, and fighters. The first bear, 325 pounds, was shot with a Winchester 30/30 by Bryan, and then began the BIG mission, the second bear. After running about seven miles following the bear they all stood just down the tree from Kyle’s three hundred and seventy five pound,
6 foot 3 inch tall bear. All of a sudden the bear started climbing down the tree, “It was crazy”, Steve Verdon says. One of the other men in the hunting group begins to climb up the tree to scare the bear, and it worked, the bear climbs all the way back up the tree. “By this point, the bear knows he’s done for,” Steve said. After the hunt, everyone goes back to the cabin and the butcher begins to harvest and process the bear. On a bear, there is about three to four” layers of fat they remove, but in the end it’s all worth it with the 100 pounds of meat left to make bear burgers and bear sausage. Steve Verdon and the boys hunt over 100 days a year all over the United States and in some parts of Canada, but in the end, Steve said, “No hunt compares to that bear hunt,” he continues, “It was over the top.”
Photo by Blake Rees
Five steps to hunting a bear
Photo By Steve Verdon
● Be faster than at least one person in your hunting party/group. ● Bring ammo.. You can’t hunt if you don’t bring your own ammo. ● Stay away from a treed bear ● Go to the swamp, because that is where the bears are. ●Thank the person who gave you their extra tag (AKA, Salidino) COMPILED BY: Ashley VanWinkle SOURCE: Steve Verdon
Runners take 7th place
By Ashley VanWinkle
Photo By Marty Leal RUNNERS – Taking a break are Ashley Vanwinkle, left, Tayler Osborn, Mwalimu Kaingu, Hannah Williams, Erica Jennings and Brianka Morgan
Rane Nichols, West’s new, talented runner from Pleasant Valley High School, decided to soar with the Falcons this year and run for the cross country team. Little did he know that switching to West High would not only place him as a school record holding top runner, but would also place him in Fort Dodge as West High’s only state cross country runner for 2011. The meet was held Saturday, Oct. 29, and he was prepared. Rane has been training everyday doing time trials and long runs, giving his all to work toward a suc-
Meet next year’s varsity
Tayler Osborn Junior Cross Country Why do you run cross country? The same reason anyone does, we’re crazy. What’s your favorite part? The runner’s high you get after. What’s your least favorite part? Lincoln Ct. Hill.
Adrian Ortega Junior Cross Country Why do you run cross country? For pride and college. What’s your favorite part? Finishing. What’s your least favorite part? Falling and slackers.
Photo By Steve Verdon
Carter Thompson Junior Football Why do you play football? I like to hit people and to run the ball. What is your favorite part? Hitting people. What is your least favorite part? Conditioning.
OFFENSE--The Falcon football players fight to carry the ball in for a touchdown in the last game of the season against the Burlington Grayhounds on Thursday, Oct. 21. The Falcons lost the game 36-13. The varsity team ended its season with no wins, and the sophomores earned two.
Volleyball team wraps up
By Becca Sandry
As the volleyball season comes to an end with a loss to North in the playoff game, 0 games to 3 ending the season with a record of 1-14, the Falcons keep their head up high. “We could have done a lot better because we have a lot of talent,” Alisa Behrens, junior said. The girls faced a lot of tough teams during their season but didn’t stop fighting. The battle paid off when the ladies beat Burlington 3 games to 0 with the scores of 25-21, 25-23, and 26-24. The game against Burlington was a major highlight of the season, with Savanna Bramstedt, senior, had 45 digs in one match, setting a new record for the school,” says Coach Verne Keeney. “Samie Belz, senior, had 12 kills and 4 ace blocks followed by Morgan Ripperger, junior, with 10 kills and 1 ace block. Brianna Bellman contributed to
the team immensly with her 33 assists.” Behrens said that the team will continue to focus on their volleyball career for next season. “I want the girls to focus on volleyball and get excited about the game!” Behrens said. With Coach Verne Keeney retiring after his tenth year of coaching, the girls will be welcoming a new coach. “I believe it’s time for a new voice at West,” Keeney said. “I appreciate all the hard work the girls put in and I wish them the best in the future.” “Dream big and never loose site of those dreams” adds Keeney. “I can’t wait for next season with a new coach and new team mates, we will get better direction and hopefully more wins!” says Ali Marten, who will be a returning varsity player next season. The Falcons look forward to a very successful season next school year and hope for the best.
Tyler Lightner Junior Football Why do you play football? I love tackling people. What is your favorite part? Scoring touchdowns. What is your least favorite part? Losing.
By Sebastian Roe
Photo by Sebastian Roe
SINK OR SWIM--Senior Jordan Remley swims the 500 freestyle.
* We Deliver *
Alisa Behrens Junior Volleyball Why do you play volleyball? Because my mom played. What is your favorite part? Getting points for my team. What is your least favorite part? Lack of inspiration.
*
* They pay our bills.
Photo by Erin Pershall
BUMP, SPIKE, Set-- The Falcon volleyball players work hard in their practices as well as in their games.
Hangin’ up the goggles
cessful run. But the training doesn’t start just right after districts; he trained hard all summer putting in over 300 miles, and the entire season putting in about 38.5 miles a week. “I have been wanting this my entire life, I’m really happy,” Nichols says. “I am nervous but I also believe in myself.” The rest of the cross country team also ended well. Although not making it to state at districts, the team totaled seventh out of ten in both girls and boys. The girls’ top runner, Tayler Osborn, ran her 2.5 miles in 15:35. The boys’ top runner Rane Nichols ran his 3.1 miles in 16:53.
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The Falcons’ football season came to a end without the team being able to get a win. “The losses make the season harder and kills the morale–of course that’s gonna happen–but it makes us want to practice harder and do more work,” said Dylan Wiley, a junior who will be going into his fourth year of football at West. The first loss wasn’t going to stop Carter Thompson, who is the strong safety and halfback for the Falcons, from focusing on what he had to do to help out his team “During the game I try to stay focused on trying to lay someone out and run the ball really hard.” All of the players practiced hard to prepare for the rest of their season both physically and mentally. The team had a total of 400 tackles for their season. There were many plays that kept the guys going through out their tough season. Skylar Moore’s kick return being one of the main
plays on everyone’s mind. “We had some decent runs along with Skylar’s kick return,” said Tanner Greenwalt, who has been injured for most of his senior year. The scores of the games weren’t in Falcons’ favor, but they focused on the game and what they came to do. “We had some flashes of really well playing just not enough to get the wins,” said coach Jeremy Mosier. The team had a total of 43 points for the season, 12 of them being return points and three of them being field goal points. Coach Mosier commended his “guys” for the great effort they have applied this season, and for their great “stick-to-itivness” With key players like Shawn Simmons and Kyle Beale graduating this year, the soon-to-be seniors such as Wiley look forward for the incoming sophomores to join the football family. “It was an honor to play with the seniors and a shame to see them go,” Wiley said.
The girls swim team finished the season with a record of 3-7. They swam in the district meet on Saturday, Oct. 29. Early in the season, the team had many injuries, including two concussions. “I think the girls swam well,” said head coach Brian Heller. “We had a lot of injuries, so we didn’t reach all of our team goals this year.” According to Heller, the top swimmer this season was Courtney Remley, sophomore, who had the best average times with the most
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points scored in the season. “I don’t know a single person who enjoys losing,” said Heller. “However, in an individual time-based sport, we still earn little victories every time a girl swims their best time. We had victories every meet, and that feels good.” While this season was not as successful as he would have hoped, Heller said his goals for next season are “to teach the kids a good work ethic, leadership, independence, and to help the kids reach their goals in and out of the pool. We will once again have a summer swim program. We will continue to lift weights and we are going to do a lot more shoulder strengthening exercises.”
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10 Editorials
Beak ‘n’ Eye
our view
Friday, November 4, 2011
Exiting exams should exit the building
Art by Sami Mills
MLK made a huge influence
The government has decided to construct a memorial for Martin Luther King Jr. On Oct. 16, 2011 this memorial was dedicated to Martin Luther King Jr., in honor of his untiring effort to make America a much better place. He joins the memorials on the Mall honoring three other great Americans: George Washington, Thomas Jefferson and Abraham Lincoln. King has changed the way we treat people and look at different aspects. Our past with Civil Rights a lot has changed, but has it changed enough? If slavery ended in 1863, then why did we still have issues with racial inequality in the 1960’s? We had marches, boycotts, sit-ins and leaders that would lead us to a new era. Many events like those were lead by Dr. King, who achieved this by nonviolent civil disobedience. The Civil Rights Act passed in 1964 authorizes federal action against segregation in public accommodations, public facilities, and employment. The United States has since then thought that they have changed how Americans look at African Americans, or any other ethnic group. The United States constructed laws so that everyone was
by Olivier Douliery/ Abaca Press/ MCT
REJOICE!Stevie Wonder sings at the dedication of the MLK Memorial on Oct. 16 in Washington D.C.
equal. African American’s have the right to vote, when they did not before the 1960’s.
Despite these laws, some people in the United States are very racist. Just because we don’t lynch African Americans anymore, that doesn’t mean we don’t still think of them in a bad light. Racial stereotypes persist in society today. Things like certain rap videos do not help: they play right into the worst ideas whites have about blacks as being violent, oversexed, ill-mannered and not particularly bright. People tend to think that African Americans aren’t as educated as other races. According to realizethedream.com, only 50 percent of African Americans graduate. However, some schools may excel in African Americans graduating. Americans tend to be very stereotypical. Yet economic and social inequities remain for African Americans. The Civil Rights Movement was just the beginning of a very large plan Martin Luther King Jr. had to unite the United States. King would want all races to unite; not only African Americans, but Hispanics, Whites, Asians, Native Americans and any other race people can think of. Our generation should be the first to stop hate towards others.
Custodians are cleaning ninjas West High has 11 full-time custodians, and two six-hour workers, and one four-hour worker. They have a big job each day cleaning a school this size. They empty the trash, sweep floors, and sanitize desks and door handles daily. They do “detailing” every other day, This is cleaning in detail such as dusting, and spot checking to clean the areas that are dirtiest. They also clean the garages whenever they need to be cleaned. Whenever you see a custodian, they
have a smile and doing their best to keep things clean and maintained. There are many kids in the school and the custodians still clean up the messes students make. They actually put up with us; they ask us to pick up trash that may or may not be ours, and they don’t do it for less work, they do it to teach us responsibility. Students should pay their respect and thank all of the custodians for the way they care for this public facility. If we didn’t have any custodians, the school
would be in shambles. As students, we need to do our part to help keep this school clean. We need to pick up all of our garbage and clean up trash when we see it, instead of thinking that someone else will do it for us. We also need to make sure that, when we leave a room, we pick up the stuff on the floor. Don’t leave book bags, notebooks, and writing utensils laying on the floor, because that just creates one more mess for our custodians to pick up. If we make an effort, it would improve the school.
What do you like to do to enjoy autumn?
“I like to jump in the leaves and scare kids on Halloween. I like it because it’s fun.” - Jeremey Sellers senior
“I like to watch football and gangout with friends. I like to because summer is taken up by baseball.” - Dakota Schau junior
“I like to hang outside. I like it because of the colors.”
- Sami Murphy sophomore
It would not just be a simple test. This test would decide whether or not students get to graduate from high school. Over the last couple of years, exiting exams have been on the rise across the United States; over half of the United States requires this test. An exiting exam is taken sophomore year, to see what that particular student struggles with. Also so that certain student can achieve a much better score their senior year and graduate high school. Many students would not want to have to take an exiting exam. Most of the kids, just in the newspaper, said not to an exiting exam. What is the point of taking an exam, when we already have passed all of the classes we need, to graduate? There have also been many studies that show the exiting exam did nothing for the students at all, basically a waste of time. According to stanford.edu, the new study said that the exit exam, which is first given in 10th grade to help identify students who are struggling academically and need additional instruction to pass the test, has failed to meet one of its primary goals: to significantly improve student achievement. They also said that the exam is for a higher skilled student. In a way means they set their students up for failure, if they are not in advanced classes. The New York Times has stated that the exam is far too hard, so then the state eases theirs standards. The schools dumb down the passing level, so most students pass. To us that seems like there are no reasons for students to take it. States should actually make us pass at the higher level and not try to dumb us down. Dumbing us down is one thing they shouldn’t want to do with tests that make sure we graduate high school. Instead states should think of something else that could help us in the future. Perhaps a test that tells us what we should do for a career. If we know what we’d be good at, it wouldn’t take nearly as long for us to figure out what we are going to do about college. We could even take classes in college to teach us more about that one subject we are terrific at. With all of this in mind, states and school boards should start considering that an exiting exam does nothing, unless they challenge the student. We believe having a test for our future career would better us so much more than an exiting exam. No one likes to feel dumb, students shouldn’t feel that way either.
?
See this big empty space above? This is where your letter to the editor should be. All letters should be 300 words or less, and there’s a good chance that it will shortened if it’s too long. Don’t forget to include your name and grade in your letter. Just drop them off in Room 161, and staff will kindly take care of the rest!
Beak ‘n’ Eye
Editors-in-chief
News editors
Faces editor Focus editors Sports editors Leisure editor Voice editors Trend editors Artists Adviser
“I like to play in the leaves and celebrate Halloween. I like it because it’s fun to do.” -Taylor Shaw freshman Compiled by Logan Allen
Erin Pershall Krista Johnson Hieu Nguyen Cassidy Frost Arina Russkikh Bethany Puetsch Edi Turcinhodzic Emily Thumann Ashley Vanwinkle Becca Sandry Sebastian Roe Blake Rees Haley Benisch Logan Allen Kelsey Ralfs Sami Mills Kayla Garcia Steve Lyle
The Beak ‘n’ Eye serves the West High student body by informing, investigating, and interpreting events which concern students. It also provides an open forum for its diverse readership. The school board grants student editors the First Amendment right to determine the coverage and content of their pages. The adviser’s role is to teach and advise the staff so that it can follow responsible journalistic practices. Readers are encouraged to submit letters to Room 161. Letters should be 300 words or less and should be signed. We reserve the right to edit the letters for length. Unsigned editorials represent the consensus of the student editorial board and not necessarily the views of the adviser, administration, or Davenport Community School District. The Beak ‘n’ Eye is published eight times a year from 3505 W. Locust St., Davenport, IA 52804. Member of Iowa High School Press Association, National Scholastic Press Association, and Quill & Scroll International Honor Society.
Friday, November 4, 2011
Beak ‘n’ Eye
dim view
Art by Sami Mills
Remembering recognition for reporters
Each year the Iowa High School Press Association holds a conference in Iowa City at the University for high schools Krista all over Iowa Johnson to attend. This was my second year attending the conference with fellow students from the Beak ‘n’ Eye staff and staff members from yearbook as well. After a key note speaker, four different workshops, and exploring the campus of a large university I realized something very influential: the sky is the limit. I spent the day sitting with many students who have the same interests as me and listening to people describe their journey pursuing those interests. One lady,
has to offer. It was such who was born in an astonishment to me Australia and that they had experiraised by her enced so much in such a grandmother in short amount of time, New York with none of them being because her parout of their 40’s. And ents were not while all of them chose around, went on to pursue journalism at to major in biolsome point, I’m sure it ogy but become is not the only extraora freelance jourECO FRIENDLY - Ecodinary choice on this nalist with a pub- Chick founder Starre planet. lished book. Vartan speaks about At this point I Another man journalism. am confident that I worked as a forwant to go on to become a joureign correspondent in London for nalist. I feel that it is my passion four years writing for the and it will provide me with expeBaltimore Sun. He traveled to war riences that will set me aside from zones in Iraq, Afghanistan, and many. However, if at some point Israel, risking his life to get the that decision changes, I will not story back home. allow the decision to live a fulfillAlong with other successful ing life to change as well. Hard people that I met during the few work will always be necessary, but hours we spent at the University in return I will live happily and of Iowa, these people showed me the many possibilities that this life satisfied.
PETA goes crazy over SeaWorld Orcas People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) wants to sue SeaWorld for the living conditions of their whales by saying it is a form of slavery. PETA argues that it is an infringement upon the Logan 13th Amendment Allen for five orca whales. Well, it may be infringement to the animals that they call “slavery” but it is better there than in the wild, where they can be caught and killed, eaten by other animals, or die due to the sudden change in water conditions. The only thing the whales at Sea World face would be stress due to the area of mobility and lack of social experiences. Of course, if that were happening than the animals would be hurting themselves or hurting more SeaWorld employees. One trainer died after a show one of the orcas grabbed the trainer and dragged
SeaWorld’s in San him under the Diego, California water until he and the SeaWorld drowned. in Florida. They may If PETA suctake out animals ceeds in the lawthat would have suit, then who gone extinct long would they go ago but have after next–zoos? been saved due Farmers? to being brought Domesticated anito SeaWorld mal owners? where they face What will happen no natural enenext? Will PETA mies in the wild, Art by Sami Mills protest the huntand PETA wants ing of overpopulated animals such them to be released into the wild as when the PIG BOMB hit. where they will die in a matter of There were more wild pigs than hours or be taken to a more suitcountable, and crops were devasable caretaker. Hmm, who could tated as a result. be a better caretaker of these aniPETA’s slavery argument is mals compared to SeaWorld? just crazy. Whales performing at If PETA wins the law suit, Sea World is not inhumane to the other animals may be taken from SeaWorld as well. PETA’s lawyers animals. PETA may have a point about some animals, but they are have been getting the lawsuit just taking it way too far here. ready for 28 months. The money Yes, the animals are being confor lawyers could have been used tained, but they do live better than to help people in need or animals some people. They should just that need it more. They don’t, leave SeaWorld alone. they spend it on suing SeaWorld. This is happening at the
YAY
- Black Friday is just around the corner, which means a bunch of terrific deals to be found. Malls will be having deals from 30 percent off to 60 percent off. According to Gottadeal.com, “Expect deals such as a Wii bundled with a $50 gift card for $149 this holiday season.” Many other places will have similar deals for Black Friday and the coming month of December.
Yay or Nay
Voice 11
Halloween has now become a ‘sluts’ paradise’ I always liked watching all of the kids dressed up in their Halloween costumes on one of their favorite holidays of the year. All of them running around begging for candy and trying to scare the pants off of each other is just so much fun. Costumes for Halloween are just as important as the holiday itself. I always Sebastian see a lot of Roe zombies, witches, vampires, werewolves, and a host of other spooky creatures. The newest craze in costumes seems to be pop-culture costumes such as Transformers, Iron Man and Batman. However, there is a new dark area of costumes emerging; the stereotype “slutty anything.” These costumes depict such jobs as nurses, police officers, firefighters, and a whole host of other occupations dressed in a much more revealing nature. This area tends to be more in the adult area of the costume aisle, but has slowly moved its way to the teen area. While the adult end is more acceptable,
since they are only worn at adult parties, the newer, younger, age groups targeted are completely unacceptable. Too many people already use Halloween as an excuse to throw a big party and get a ton of free candy, but now, people are displaying their bodies more prominently at these events. It is one thing to dress questionably and to show off a little bit, but when you have more skin showing than clothing, it is pretty ridiculous. There are far too many costumes that take advantage of the human body in order to make money for major costume companies. Not only are these costumes a disgrace, but when you have a costume portraying a slutty nurse, for example, it makes nurses look bad too. The costume sells a negative stereotype that all people of that profession are overly promiscuous. Not only are nurses and public safety officials not slutty in any way (for the most part,) they are there to serve the pub are a poor form of gratitude. All in all, these costumes need to be put to a stop before they get out of hand. If we don’t get rid of them, they may grow to portray things that they should never show. How long will it be until we have a “slutty sewer maintenance worker?”
It seems in today’s society teachers and students have very different views on many things, yet when a student is in college learning to become a teacher it clearly states in their curriculum that its not a good idea to give any opinion on controversial topics without giving both sides of the topic. I believe many teachers at West High School give their Blake opinions Rees on issues without explaining both sides of the topic, trying to sway the student to which ever side they believe in. If it’s clearly stated in a textbook, that should mean that obviously it’s not wanted in the education world. Most teachers believe that since they are a teacher and they have a degree, it gives them the right to teach whatever they want; this is not true. The teacher
must explain the whole subject without saying one side is better than the other. In my experience I’ve had a teacher do just this. I raised my hand and told them my opposite opinion and quickly got shut down and sent in the hallway. My teacher came out and told me that he didn’t like how I embarrassed him in front of the class. I tried to explain that I was just giving my opinion about the controversy. I was ignored and told to go back in the classroom. When teaching certain subjects in school, the teacher will be forced to talk about controversial topics; the right thing to do would be to give both sides of the topic rather than giving just their own. This is a problem that should have more of an enforced law. The teachers have a big impact on a student’s life as they mature them through their high school years. Swaying them to one side could affect our society as we know it, while having the possibility of offending someone along the way.
Teachers sway opinions
YAY-This year the Davenport Community Schools has
given us many days off. The school board seems to be starting to ease us into year-round school. This means less summer, but so many more breaks during school terms. Many students are very happy about this. Longer breaks are a good thing!
NAY- On the news all we see are politics. The election YAY-This past month West High Students have been col- for our President is a little over a year away. It’s kind of
lecting can goods and money for local food pantries. If West collects enough food, we win the Hunger Drive competition, but that is not what it’s about. It’s about helping people less fortunate than us. West students still have until Monday, Nov.7 to collect food. Get out there and collect!
ridiculous seeing politics all over. Right now there are more important things than politics, such as Occupy Wall Street or The War on Terror. These issues seem so much more important to me than politics.
NAY- The cold is here, and the snow is coming. Not
many people like the cold and snow, but it’s something we have to deal with here in Iowa. On the Brightside, when it’s cold, it means we are that much closer to the end of the school year and the summer. Bring it on winter!
NAY- As many students know, we are only allowed to
have french fries and mashed potatoes. The school has yet to discover a healthier alternitive to making them both. Students would be happier with french fries everyday, and they would also be heathier.
BeaknEye_3_11_ISSUU
11/3/2011
12 News
3:14 PM
Page 7
CLUB Beak ‘n’ Eye
Friday, November 4, 2011
E N V I R O N M E N TA L
Environmental Club takes trip to Dubuque, Iowa, to meet new people and explore the environment in the Mississippi and its watersheds By Ashley VanWinkle and Arina Russkikh
Photos by Erin Pershall
STIRRIN’ UP THE ROCKS - Students from one of Dubuque’s local high schools get into one of the Mississippi River’s many watersheds in order to do a certain type of water testing. They will check to see what varieties of small animals and insects are in the water. The more variety in the water, the healthier the water. To do this you have to hold a net in the water and kick up rocks to stir the critters up.
Visiting Dubuque, Iowa ,for a road trip sponsored by The National Mississippi River Museum sounded like a fun time for West High Environmental Club members Erin Pershall, Nick Munger, Ashley Elfgen, and Brianna Fisher. The students loaded up in a van at 8 a.m. Sept. 22, and with adviser Kim Strunk driving, they began their adventure. The day began when they reached Dubuque and introduced themselves over breakfast to all of the other groups at the event. Then they went onto the boat they were staying on for the night and unpacked their belongings. “I was feeling anxious and excited while we were unpacking,” senior Erin Pershall said. “I was ready to get on that boat and get to fishing!” So the students did. They hopped into boats and began learning how to pull up the pre-sunk fishing nets. While on the boat, the groups learned a little about the river. After the boats docked, they began their adventure by foot along one of the Mississippi River’s beaches collecting shells and rocks. Later the students headed back to the boat to get ready for the museum’s fish fry. “I’m not a fish person, but it was pretty good!” Pershall said. Brianna Fisher added, “We also got to hang out in the museum the whole day long, and we spent the night on a boat with students from other different schools. After going for a hike, we did some water testing in the steam, and then in the dark we did geo-cashing with handheld GPS units.” “Afterwards we walked over to the other museum and watched 4D movies until they headed back to the boat for some group bonding and then some rest for an early awakening the next morning,” said Pershall. The next day at 6 a.m. the groups packed up for the end of their adventure, but the group gets in one last adventure after breakfast–a trolley ride to the creek to explore critters, test water, and learn how to make their own rain gardens before heading back to Davenport. “I learned so much about the river, pollution, animals and watersheds,” Fisher said. “The National Mississippi River Museum was a phenomenal experience.”
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NAME ME - This octopus is one of the many sea creatures that the National Mississippi River Museum has in its large aquarium. This octopus is name-less and you can currently vote on what to name him.
Interesting facts about the Mississippi
The Mississippi flows south from 1. Northern Minnesota to the gulf of Mexico in Louisiana.
2. The Mississippi is 740 miles long.
The river was discovered by De 3. Soto in 1541.
skiing was invented on the 4. Water river in 1922.
HANGING WITH THE GAR FISH - Senior Erin Pershall learns and explores a new kind of Mississippi critter, the Gar Fish and other Mississippi critters while boating on the river by an Indian burial ground.
BIG GUY - Senior Trevor Lewis from Cedar Rapids, Iowa, holds a 20 pound catfish that he helped pull in using a commercial fishing net that the DNR set previously.
60 percent (326 birds) of all birds 5. migrate across the river. COMPILED BY: Ashley VanWinkle SOURCE: www.minnesota-visitor.com and experiencemississippi.com