Beak 'n' Eye Dec. 9, 2011

BeaknEye_4_11_ISSUU

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Beak ‘n’ Eye

Students planking - page 8

Volume 52 Issue 4

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West High School

3505 W. Locust St. Davenport, Iowa 52804

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Friday, December 9, 2011

Community discusses educational plan poll

By Hieu Nguyen

Governor Terry Branstad and the Iowa Department of Education proposed a plan to reform education in Iowa on Oct. 4. About 30 people attended a town hall meeting at West on Nov. 12, led by Jason Grass, the head of state’s education department, and Linda Fandel, governor’s special assistant on education.

Some items of the blueprint are improving student-teaching experiences, including more time solo teaching; new tests including endof-course exams that act as a high school exit exam; expanding competency-based education, and increasing teacher pay significantly from one level to the next.

Linda Fandel said that the goal of the blueprint is to give all the students in Iowa a world-class education. “Iowans on the whole recognize we have good schools, but need to improve so we have world-class schools, given the globally competitive economy today,” Fandel said. “While there is some disagreement over details of how to accomplish that goal, the important thing is to build a broad consensus for continual improvement so our children get the best possible education.”

A few West teachers attended the meeting.

“I think that the major benefit of the meeting is to just air local view of education, but it really did not result any of these issues. It seems like the state government

Do you think students should have to pass a state test in third, eight, and eleven grade in order to pass to the next grade?

SOURCE: Beak ’n’ Eye survey of 124 students

Photo by Hieu Nguyen

CONVERSATION- Aaron Cousins, social studies teacher, and his wife talk with Linda Fandel, special assisstant for education at the town hall meeting on Nov.12 at West.

was not intent on going through with their plan regardless of what they said at meeting,” said Jack Achs, social studies teacher. He said that seniors should not take an exit exam to graduate; instead they just need to take the final exam for each course.

Jed Ganzer, special education teacher, said he also worries about testing students. “I have a concern with the comprehensive and course exam. My concern is that

I’m not sure that you can have a test that will fit all our students’ needs. For example you will have college-bound students taking the test with learning disability students who may only read as a third grade level,” he said.

The three big pieces of the educational proposal are improving instruction and evaluation, raising academic standards and using assessments; and encouraging innovation that boosts learning.

whether students are on the right track for college and successful career. The teachers can use this test, which is based upon the Iowa common core standards, to compare West High with other schools.

Jane Kroening, language art teacher, has some ways to help the student prepare for the Iowa Assessment. She said that the students are given a series of review and activities such as grammar, punctuation. Sometimes she has them read a package and answer the questions. Kroening also presents different topics to the students each week.

Some teachers think too much emphasis is placed on this state standardized assessment.

“I don’t think the Iowa Assessment or the former ITED is the best way to measure the students’ achievements. The students can have a bad day or something on the test day and that student won’t be able to do well on the test,” said Jeff Hermiston, social studies teacher. “It’s not a fair way to measure an effective teacher; there are some students who well on the test and others don’t do very well.”

Hermiston said that he does not like giving the test in one day

because they can’t answer the questions effectively in limited time. The students will do better if they take one section per day. The results may possibly change.

In order to help the students ready for the test, he will go through the skill sections in the textbook.

Justin Lamer, ESL teacher, has some strategies to help his students prepare for the assessment.

ESL students obviously have the disadvantage of the language; they’re newcomers to America.

Justin told them to find the main idea of the paragraph, reduce the possible choices, going through the questions quickly, and skip the questions that they don’t know during the test.

“Newcomers are nervous. They come to the United States and don’t know English. The students must wonder why they have to take the big test like ITED, now is called Iowa Assessment. They would ask themselves this question, ‘will the assessment hurt their grades if they fail’,” said Lamer. “It is our duty to make sure the students know why they have to take it and help them get ready.”

Students will take new test

By Hieu Nguyen

All Iowa high school students will take the Iowa Assessment instead of the Iowa Tests of Educational Development this year. Davenport students will take the assessment on Feb. 8, 2012.

The practice tests will be given to the students on Wednesdays of January.

The content of this test for kindergarteners to 11th graders is reading, written expression, mathematics, science, social studies, vocabulary, spelling, language, punctuation, computation, word analysis, and listening. However, high school students only take the reading, written expression, social studies, science, vocabulary, mathematics, and computation. Last year students did not take the written expression.

“I think it’s a good thing to make the test harder and longer, so you can really see if the students do the test or not. By doing that, you can get more accurate score,” said Dylan Essex, freshman.

The purposes of the assessments are to measure the growth and achievements in core academic areas of the students and to help parents and educators determine

A teacher from West said he did not learn anything new about the plan. “The meeting did not represent any new information.

They repeated the stuff in the previous meeting,” said Aaron Cousins, social studies teacher.

Cousins said that he would add a writing component, document base questions, and use multiple choice questions and a personal essay for the history final core exam.

He was not sure that the endof-course exam, - a 30-40 question multiple choice test- can demonstrate mastery of the subject.

Cousins also thought that students would rather be judged by a content test instead of ITED. Cousins questioned how the state is going to fund these reforms and how the reforms will be sustained. Last year Gov. Branstad pushed to give schools no increase in state aid. The legislature gave school districts zero percent allowable growth, which was the first time schools received no increase since the 1970’s.

Photo by Hieu Nguyen

THE TEST- Austin Farris, freshman, practices the ACT Pre test. Iowa Assessment will be given to the students this year. ACT and Iowa Assessment are big tests that high school students are taking.

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2 News

Fun behind the musical Beak ‘n’ Eye

Friday, December 9, 2011

stage were during Beauty and the Beast,” she said.

“The ‘Silly Girls’ weren’t just silly on stage, but off When the community saw this year’s school play stage we did some pretty crazy things. One of us fell Beauty and the Beast on Nov. 4-6, they only got to and broke a set piece. Not to mention the countless see the overall view of the actors, the set, and cos- times we fell, made shadow puppets behind the castle, and made random animal noises.” tumes. But what happens before opening night?

Some cast members think outside the box for a Here is a behind the scenes look from a non-leading role actress, Melanie Vickers, junior, otherwise little fun and begin to think of pranks to play on their cast members, but they never do them. known as one of the ‘Silly Girls’ in the play.

“We always think of pranks, but we never get the Before the play can air, the cast members must courage to actually do them. Every time someone attend play practice everyday after school. The has to do a dreaded stage kiss, we want to give one actors may know their lines, but even they mess up. of them Funyons and real“Everyone messes up every single day in practice,” Vickers said.

If someone messes up ly bad smelling food, but we always decide it’s too “Mr. Hess usually just laughs at us or forgets a line, mean,” said Vickers. when we do, unless it’s a huge another character can For being with so many mistake, then you get to carry this for so long, the disgusting stuffed doll named Lulu do or say something people cast gets to know one around school (with you) the next to keep the scene another on a different day.” level.

As soon as it’s time for the real running smoothly.”

“Backstage is like a big show, they the actors cover each family,” Vickers said. “You have the kids messing other for accidental mess ups. around and joking and the parents who are trying to “During performances we usually have our charcalm us down, although nine times out of ten, we acters personalities down, so if someone messes up continue to joke around because it’s the fun part of or forgets a line, another character can do or say having a smaller role.” something to keep the scene running smoothly,” Like every family, they have their own traditions Vickers added. as well.

Same goes for strange things that happen while “The most important tradition is to wish everyone they are performing. “Odd things always happen to ‘break a leg’ by linking pinkies with another pereither with the lights or sound, but the good thing son and kissing the other side of our hand. It might about having a lot of rehearsals is being able to sound weird, but it’s a great way we get over our know your part and do what you can to just keep nerves and get ready to put a show together,” going,” said Vickers.

Vickers said.

Backstage is never boring for Vickers and her Overall, Vickers had a great time being an ensemcast mates. ble in the play.

“We love to make jokes about odd parts of the “It’s not only fun to be a leading role and get to plays. We also like to poke fun at our friends having to do interesting things on stage, but it’s all for fun.” be and actor, but its also a fun time being a ensemble because being backstage is always a blast!”

“Some of the funniest things that happened backBy Erin Pershall

“

staff photos

TAMING THE BEASTBelle, played by Dawn Vickers, reads to the Beast, played by Jake Stewart at the Nov. 5 performance in the West High auditorium.

GASTON, PLEASE! Seniors James Thames, left, and Blake Lewis get into their characters.

Co-ed cheerleaders win state

By Edvin Turcinhodzic

The West High Coed Cheerleading squad stood on the sideline along with the other eight teams at the Jacobsen Exhibition Building in Des Moines on Nov. 5 waiting for their turn to compete for the Iowa State Co-ed Cheerleading Competition.

Some were nervous, because in the state finals, one slip or fall can cost you the championship.

“When we walked in to the building, I saw that the school that performed before us were all down and tearing up,” said Wade Rollins, sophomore.

“Personally, it gave me confidence. I was like ‘We got this!’”

West went on to take the state championship for the second year in a row.

“The team was prepared to compete with the very best, and they performed like I’ve never seen before,” said Coach Melanie Gray.

“When they announced us as champions, the arena went crazy.

Several people had tears in their eyes because it was a very special moment,” added Gray.

During the competition, the judges looked for many things.

“They judge you on appearance; you can’t have jewelry, no hair ties, even too long of nails will make the judges deduct points,” explained Laren Skulte, junior.

During the performance, the judges watch for the difficulty of the stunts and sharpness of motions.

This went a long way for the West High squad.

“Our routine started with our opening stunts, then went to tum-

Contributed by Linda Manders

Christmas is not just about Christmas trees and presents, it’s about giving to others and being kind and generous.

That’s how Brittany Manders was—she was always kind and warm-hearted.

Brittany died unexpectedly of a seizure disorder on Feb. 20, 2008, at the age of 20. Her family was devastated but they still held on. Seven months later, Jeff and Linda Manders thought of something they could do in memory of Brittany—they started a charity.

Brittany cared deeply for handicapped people, and she loved visiting the Handicapped Development Center.

She also visited the YMCA Child Care Center.

“She was always buying new toys for the children. Many of the residents at these centers do not receive Christmas gifts,” said Manders, Brittany’s mother and a school nurse, “This charity has grown and touched many lives.”

Network speed to improve

installed all new gigabyte switches in all of our high schools and intermediate buildings to further improve speed.”

In order to improve the bandwidth in our district, it takes time No one likes to wait for a slow computer trying to connect to the Internet, and then all of a sudden, broadcasting through the and money to do so because some computers need updated.

“We are upgrading our computers as fast as we can,” said speakers is “The Internet is currently down for the time being”.

Sloat. “You may have noticed the new labs at West last year and All of the research that you took the time is gone.

The Davenport Community School District has been trying we are working on replacing teacher computers in a timed rollout that will hopefully get us lined up for a different methods on how to make funded replacement cycle we can the computer network in schools depend on,” he said. faster and meet the growing needs.

“We currently don’t have a funded The speed of our network is conobsolescence and replacement cycle trolled by different factors and varifor computers in the district. Machines ables. are being replaced now with Microsoft “Network speed is dictated by a settlement funds,” said Sloat. pretty complicated collection of The fight with bandwidth will factors and variables that are all always continue. related and have impact on the per“Investments in the districts infraception of speed. It’s kind of like structure has been maintained at a pretmaking a really fast car,” said Gary ty high level. What you find happens Sloat, director of the districts learnPhoto by Erin Pershall over time is that you can improve ing information systems. “It’s more facets of the network structure and that than just a big engine, it’s the com- SLOW - Senior Haley Benisch waits patiently will push the (bandwidth) to the next bination of tires, fuel, gear ratios for the Internet to load on the computer. point of need,” Sloat stated. “It is a conand weight to name a few. Depends on what race you are running as well, a drag race, NASCAR or stant process of upgrade and improvement as funding and need dictate.” the 24 hours of LeMans.”

As of right now, the district has been practicing ways to conJust like any car, you always are trying to think of some way to make it better. What DCSD has done is that they are expand- serve the bandwidth.

“There are lots of ways to conserve bandwidth, keeping the ing the bandwidth, a range of frequencies used for transmitting content you use the most on the local network is a big one,” Sloat Internet signals to computers.

In the last year alone, they have expanded the bandwidth in said.

The speeds in the buildings are based off of several factors our school district and they plan to continue adding to it.

“This last year we doubled our Internet bandwidth from 50 Mg including the speed between the buildings and the Internet. to 100Mg and will double that again next year to 200Mg,” said Another way they conserve the bandwidth is by saving frequently used websites to a proxy servers and by blocking video conSloat.

The bandwidth is shared across the district. DCSD has to pur- tent.

The major point is that the district is thinking of the students chase between buildings. “Bandwidth is shared across the district.

We also have to purchase bandwidth between our buildings, not needs.

“We are working on optimizing our network to best meet the just to the Internet,” Sloat said. “This is our internal network and those connections will be increasing as well. Last year we needs of educating our students,” Sloat said.

By Erin Pershall

4

By Jephthah Jon Yarian

Step 1:

steps on how to vote in the Iowa Caucuses

Register to vote for the Iowa caucuses by Jan. 3, 2012.

You are available to register at the caucus location or, to register before January, you can register at the Scott County Auditor office. Only 18-year-olds may participate in the Iowa caucuses and 17-year-olds may participate if they will be the age of 18 by the time of the general election, Nov. 6, 2012.

Step 2:

contributed photo PRIDE IN WIN- The West High cheerleaders show their pride in winning the state championship on Nov. 5 in Des Moines for the second year in a row.

Brittany’s gifts still helping local children

By Cassy Frost

ONE SMILING FACE- Brittany Manders, who graduated from North High in 2005, had a strong interest in helping children with disabilities. West High honors her memory with Bittany’s Gifts.

bling, first half pyramid, our cheer, dance, and our ending pyramid to finish off,” added Skulte.

“Our most difficult stunt was probably the ‘Heel stretch full down,’ because people had certain difficulties with it, mostly due to injuries,” said Lexi Egger.

“The coolest part was probably Wade’s basket; everyone went crazy when he did the double twist,” said Skulte.

“Among the accomplishments in my life, winning state is right after my first steps and my first back flip,” said Rollins.

When asked what goes through his head as he is doing all of his flips (which he is so well known for), Rollins responded, “I’m flippin’ awesome.”

Beak ‘n’ Eye

Friday, December 9, 2011

The charity started the Thanksgiving of 2008, seven months after Brittany’s passing. The money they earned is used to go and buy presents.

“We never really counted the money.

We just went out and bought toys for the children,” Manders said. It is mostly in the Quad Cities. Davenport North is helping West with the charity by selling bracelets and lanyards to raise money to buy gifts.

“Starting the charity was very emotional. We did it to keep her memory alive. A focus away from out grief, even though it never goes away,” Manders said.

North holds a Trivia Night to raise money. The National Honors Society and other organizations at North started to help out too.

When Brittany was 6, she developed encephalitis. It led to epilepsy, and the seizures that came along with it could never be kept in check with medication.

Encephalitis is a rare condition. It

occurs more often in the first year of life and decreases with age. The very young and the elderly are more likely to have a severe case. Encephalitis is most often caused by a viral infection.

Brittany was a pitcher on the North High girls’ softball team, and her father was the coach. She graduated in 2005 from North. Brittany got called names and was picked on. Even when people ridiculed Brittany because of her seizure disorder, she endured — and always forgave. “She was the most forgiving soul, with such a generous heart,” Linda Manders said. “She always had a smile.”

“Brittany was 3-years old when we met. We were like sisters. We first met when she came down to the street with her family and introduced herself.”

Brittany’s good friend said. “She was fun. She was always laughing and joking. Always making people laugh.

Brittany never complained. She was definitely a leader, not a follower.”

Attend the Iowa caucuses.

The 2012 Iowa caucuses are scheduled for Jan. 3, 2012. By attending, you can play a key role in selecting who the presidential nominee will be, because the Iowa caucuses are known for being the first caucuses of every election year. The parties have not yet decided where the caucuses locations will be, but you will still need to know your precinct,which can be found out by contacting the county auditor. It is important for

School Calendar

people to go and participate because many Americans look at the Iowa caucuses’ results and relate them to the future results of other states’ caucuses; and it is also important for unqualified people to go and watch and learn about what they will participate in some day.

Step 3:

Your Party’s National Convention The Republican National Convention will be on Aug. 27-30, 2012, in Tampa, Florida. If you are a part of the Democrat Party the National Convention September 3-6, 2012, Charlotte, North Carolina. No matter which party you are in, you are able to help choose representatives to go to the convention to vote the state decision.

Step 4:

Vote for president You are able to vote for the president on Nov. 6, 2012, as long as you are at the age of 18.

Dec. 13 - U.S. Army Recruiter visiting during lunch time.

Dec. 14 - Orders for the Mac Pink Out shirts are due. Order forms for t-shirts are in the Main office Dec. 16 - Last day to turn in senior extras form.

Dec. 20 - First and second block finals. 2 hour early out.

Dec. 21 - Last call to pre order yearbook for $80. Limited extras will be sold at delivery for $85.

Dec. 21 - Senior Recognitions due. Letter was mailed home.

Dec. 21 - Third and fourth block finals. 2 hour early out. End of term.

Jan. 4 - Classes resume. Third term begins.

Jan. 16 - Martin Luther King Day. No school.

Don’t drink and drive Don’t text and drive Both can be deadly behind the wheel

News 3

briefs Bowling teams win meets

By Sam Napier

The West High Bowling team is now in season and they are off to a great start.

Their first meet was Monday, Nov. 21, against the Davenport Central Bowling team. Both the boys and girls varsity won their games.

Their second meet was Monday, Nov. 28 against Bettendorf High School. The varsity girls won their games and the varsity boys lost.

Molly Zogg, a JV player and sophomore at West, said, “It’s a really fun experience if you’re into bowling, and it helps you meet new people and friends.”

The next bowling meet is next Monday, Dec. 12. Bowling practice is every Tuesday and Thursday at 30 Lanes in Davenport, and meets are always on Mondays.

Vocal music has concert

By David McVay

The Vocal Music Department had a concert at the Vicki- Palmer Hall on Tuesday, Nov. 29. The concert was combined with the choirs from North and Central High Schools.

During the concert the combined orchestras from all of the schools played a few Christmas selections before the choirs started. After the orchestras played, the choirs sang a song alone with just the piano called “Make Our Garden Grow.” They continued to sing along with the orchestra, playing selections from the Messiah by G.F. Handel.

By the last song, which was the Halleluiah Chorus, everyone in the audience stood up, following a tradition from long ago when the king himself stood during that song.

Ecology Club celebrates

By Caroline Wimber

Ecology Club is throwing a Winter Solstice party on Dec. 22, or the shortest day of the year, “All I wish for partygoers is to eat, drink, and be merry,” said adviser Jodi Zimmerman.

Ecology Club is still working on the prairie seed bombs, a mixture of clay, peat moss, water, and prairie seed.

If you would like to join them in propagating wilderness, the club is open to new members.

Sleepy Hollow opens

By Erin Pershall

Falcon Drama will present the play The Legend of Sleepy Hollow on Saturday, Dec. 10. The audience will sit on the stage, so seating is limited.

They will perform at 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. There will also be a showing of the play during fourth block on Friday, Dec. 9.

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4 Faces

Beak ‘n’ Eye

One of the

By Arina Russkikh

“

The potential benefits and acknowledgment of my accomplishments in school have been nothing but an appreciated gift

”

Photo by Arina Russkikh

Weise was informed both by mail and by West counselors.

There are a total of 16,000 merit semifinalists chosen from schools through our country.

“I find it difficult to say which classes are my personal favorites,” said Weise. But from all classes he picked AP English due to his fondness for literature.

Weise wants to become a writer, or an engineer.

Weise is involved in Beauty and the Beast, basketball and Drama Club.

“Now that the musical is over, I also hope to become a member of the West Ecology Club and Robotics Team if at all possible,” Weise said.

“Be a Santa to a Senior” You can help senior citizens enjoy the holidays by joining the Be a Santa to a Senior program, and getting a senior something on their wish list this holiday season. Stop in at Walgreens at 1660 West Locust Street, Davenport, Iowa for more information.

Christkindlmarkt Christkindlmarkt is a holiday market featuring imported German crafts, such as linens, crystal, candles, tree toppers, and nutcrackers will be on sale. The market will be sponsored by The German American Heritage Center. at 712 West 2nd Street, Davenport, Iowa.

3.

Nuncrackers- The Nunsense Christmas Musical Nuncrackers is a holiday comedy about four nuns. It features all of your favorite holiday songs, each with a humorous twist.

Nuncrackers is showing at Circa ’21 Dinner Playhouse located at 1818 3rd Avenue, Rock Island, Illinois.

4.

Andrew Wiese, National Merit Semifinalist

Devin Heald has been scootering for about four years. He decided to do scootering after he watched a lot of videos of people scootering on YouTube, because he thought it would be cool and fun.

“Nobody taught me how to do scootering, so I just did all by myself and I did ride with my friends,” said Heald.

He can do a lot of tricks, but the coolest ones are quad whips backflip tuck no hander and flairs.

For him scootering is just some-

thing that he loves to do. To practice he goes to Centenial Skate park and The Center when it’s open. In the summer he rides his scooter six or seven days a week, but during school about four.

“When I am doing very good I feel like I am at my prime and nothing in the whole World can really stop me,” said Heald.

He said he doesn’t get hurt a lot except the occasional bruise or cut, although he has had some concussions and he knocked some teeth out a couple years ago.

In the future Heald would like to

get a sponsorship to keep him motivated and also travel with other scooterers.

“For beginners all I would say is practice, practice, practice. And make sure you enjoy what you are doing and don’t take it too seriously”, said Heald.

Freestyle scootering is an action sport which involves using kick scooters to perform freestyle tricks, in a manner similar to skateboarding and BMX freestyle.The sport is popular because pro-scooters have more variety and are becoming stronger, lighter and more balanced.

Leo Club initiates 20 members

Dancing is very popular nowadays. Many people found their hobbies in this field, including Abby Thumann, a member of the school dance team “Diamond Dancers.” She began dancing when she was three-years old. . During this time she has won a lot of awards including ribbons, trophies and plaques. “Dancing impacted my life really hard. It is

Lions Club initiated 20 West High students on Nov.16 at the Rogowski Center at St. AmbroseUniversity.

“There was supposed to be 30 people,” Stephanie Hansen, Leo Club’s adviser, explained, “but they didn’t show up.”

Lions Club added new members because they wanted to make their membership in the Universal Lions

To advertise in the Feb. 3 issue, call 563 386-5500 ext. 161

1.

By Sebastian Roe

2.

Abby Thumman: dance and be happy

By Arina Russkikh

Things to do during the holidays

Holiday Magic QC United will host festivities to thank active military families and veterans on Sunday, Dec. 11 from noon to 4 p.m. Enjoy live music, magic shows and a prize drawing at the end of the day, including a $2,000 grand prize. Entry costs $10 or $5 with a toy donation at 2021 State Street in Bettendorf, Iowa.

Little man takes big flight

By Arina Russkikh

helps me stay out of trouble, gives me confidence and makes me work hard,” said Thumann.

She competed at state with a solo dance. “I was one point away from receiving a 1st division, but for my first time competing at state with solo I feel like I did really well,” she said.

She started dancing because her mom put her in dance. But she isn’t regert about it. She is dancing and she is happy.

By Cassy Frost

AAAA Driving School

Classes held at West High

3:15 - 5:15 p.m. Room 102

Club bigger.

The Davenport Host Lions Club was organized on November 24, 1924. There were 51 charter members anxious to serve the community.

The Lions Club has the motto "We Serve" that has been exemplified by the club since it was chartered. Lions Club is very happy and excited to greet their new members.

The students do service projects throughout the year.

5.

Art Work by: Sebastian Roe

OVERVIEW: Lulu is the new album made in collaboration by thrash metal leaders Metallica and punk forerunner Lou Reed.

WHATS GOOD: Lou Reed’s abstract lyrics are put to heavy metal riffs. People familiar with Reed know his lyrics of pain, addiction, and the dark side of life. Many heavy metal singers sing the same sort of themes, but it provides an interesting twist, with his spoken, beat poet style vocals.

WHAT’S BAD: Metallica has been reduced to instrumentalalists and backup singers. The album is only ten tracks long, averaging at 7 minutes a track, the longest being 20 minutes long. The sound often is redundant, with Reed howling things like “pumping blood” over and over, not to mention James Hetfield shouting “I am the table!” continuously in “The View.”

OVERALL: Metallica fans, beware. This is like nothing they have put out before, and somehow is worse than Death Magnetic. Lou Reed fans, this is worth the buy. Not at all a bad piece for the heavy Velvet Underground fan, as this is likely to be Reed’s last album, and it is an interesting crossover. You may find one or two good tracks here, depending on your style, but this, sadly enough, is an album to be overall avoided.

By Shawn Dobbins

Steve Verdon, instructor

Do you write with Do you take photos with

Flair?

Do you want to be

Published?

Register for Newspaper Lab in 2012-13

Watch Christmas lights What gets you into the holiday spirit more than Christmas lights?

Some of the best light shows can be found in the Chateau Knoll neighborhood in Betterndorf, Iowa.

GAME

Lou Reed & Metallica

Style?

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Submit your ideas to the Beak ‘n’ Eye Room 161

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MUSIC

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Beak ‘n’ Eye

Friday, December 9, 2011

5

BEST

The best way to describe Andrew Weise’s place as a National Merit Semifinalist would be to say that it has given him a great sense of pride in his own scholarly abilities. “While it does occasionally present more work for me to deal with, the potential benefits and acknowledgment of my accomplishments in school have been nothing but an appreciated gift,” said Weise.

Weise become a Merit Scholar after his PSAT scores were first used to determine his potential as a Merit Scholar. His grade may also have been examined at this point. Following these steps, his SAT’s were used to confirm his scores, and he was required to write a resume before being admitted into the running for a position as a Merit Finalist.

FLYING HIGH - Junior, Devin Heald practices his stunts at Skate Church “Center” on 14th and Brady Street.

Friday, December 9, 2011

MOVIE

‘Skyrim’

OVERVIEW: Bethesda Softworks kicks out the latest installment in the award winning Elder Scrolls series with Skyrim. The game drops you off on a prison transport cart on your way to execution, and allows you to construct your character.

After a long cutscene, you are freed from your bindings and are plunged into a fight with a dragon. Afterwards you are thrust out into an open world game, where you can do almost anything.

WHAT’S GOOD: The Elder Scrolls series has always boasted incredible gameplay and storyline, and Syrim is no exception.

Players are dropped into an incredibly immersive storyline, but are in no way required to do the main questline.

The player is fully capable of choosing their own in-game destiny. The games graphics and sound quality perfectly compliment the story, and the game is very well polished.

WHAT’S BAD: While the story line is amazing, there are a few minor annoyances within the game. The first of these is the cutscenes. While you learn a lot about the game’s background and history through these cutscenes, they tend to drag on and leave the player sitting for quite a while before they are offered the chance to act. Another annoyance is the level up system. Players are often uninformed of their levels. This leaves players to find their level in the menu, and select multiple perks at once due to this system.

OVERALL: The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim is a great game for casual to hardcore gamers, and is definitely worth $59.99

* We Deliver *

By Sebastian Roe

‘Tower Heist’

OVERVIEW: Tower Heist is a comedy featuring Ben Stiller as the manager of a high end condominium, where all of the richest citizens of New York City live. As the movie progresses, it’s revealed that Stiller’s character, Josh Kovacs, gave control of all of his employees pensions to the richest man in the building, Mr. Shaw, to invest into the stock market and effectively double all of their pensions. When Kovacs finds out, he plans a grand scheme along with some of the employees, and Slide, a master thief, played

by Eddie Murphy.

WHAT’S GOOD: Tower Heist is one of the best comedies of this year.

Stiller is a perfect fit for the role of Josh Kovacs. It is a nice change of pace for him to finally play a more serious role, instead of some of his previous roles in movies.

Eddie Murphy’s character, Slide, is a great contrast to the seriousness of Stiller’s. Slide aids Kovacs and his group in planning and executing their master plan.

WHAT’S BAD: Some of the characters don’t quite fit their overall personality. In the beginning of the movie, Kovacs is a very good person, but when he finds out about the scam, he destroys Shaw’s car. Matthew Broderick plays the role of Mr. Fitzhugh, a shy and quiet stock broker, who lost all his money in the stock market crash. In the movie he does nothing but whine, which does not fit Broderick’s personality, or that of any roles he has played in the past.

OVERALL: Tower Heist is not worth the money to go to the theater, wait until it comes out on DVD or Blu-Ray.

By Sebastian Roe

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IMPULSIVE BEHAVIORS

6 Focus

Beak ‘n’ Eye

1. Higher mental functions • Concentration • Planning • Judgment • Creativity

2. Broca’s area

• Muscles of speech

3.Motor function area

1.

• Eye movement

4. Motor Function Area

• Initiation of voluntary muscles

5. Sensory Area

Friday, December 9, 2011

Functions of the brain

3.

2.

4.

10.

• Sensation from muscles and skin

6. Somatosensory

5.

6.

Area 7.Wernicke’s • Language comprehension

8. Visual Area

11. 7.

9.

Association Area • Evaluation of weight, texture, etc

• Sight • Image recognition • Image perception

9. Motor Functions

• Coordination of movement • Posture

8.

10. Association Area

• Short term memory • Emotion

11. Auditory Area

• Hearing

By Bethany Puetsch

Parents and their children often don’t agree and get into arguments even as the children grow into adults, the difference between a parent arguing with their adult child and a parent arguing with their teenage child is the reaction. A majority of times the adult would prefer to talk it out with their child. While a teenager could have many different reactions including violence, anger, self mutilation and possibly even running away.

Irrational teenage behaviors were previously dismissed as puberty and hormones but recent studies have shown that it may have more to do with the brain than maturity. As a teenager, different parts of the brain are still developing and forming. The undeveloped regions may cause the adolescent to become more impulsive and not recognize there may be future consequences.

“Teenagers are unable to understand their own demise, they can’t realize their own mortality the fact that they may lose or fail isn’t possible in their mind they are untouchable

they feel it won’t happen to them,” said psychology teacher Jodi Zimmerman.

The average teenage brain between ages 13 to 19 is only about 80% developed and connected, according to Harvard Magazine. The brain is divided into sections that develop starting at the back of the brain and ending with the front called the frontal lobe.

The frontal lobe is the section that people use for decision making, reasoning, problem solving, to predict outcomes and it also controls goal-directed behaviors. This section of the brain is the last to connect causing teens to be far more impulsive than an average adult.

A study done at Harvard University has shown that the teenage frontal lobe has less myelination. Myelinated processes are the chemical signals that send messages from one part of the brain to another. A lack of this chemical shows a decreased ability to use this part of the brain.

“As an adult we have a connection to the frontal lobe comparable to a four lane highway, as a teenager the highway is not fully built yet, there is still road construction and

only two lanes are open for traffic,” Zimmerman said.

Because teens are unable to fully use their frontal lobe for processing information and dealing with issues, they often use a different section of the brain called the amygdala.

Studies have shown that adults will commonly activate their frontal lobe to solve problems while teens activate their amygdala, reports Science Daily.

The amygdala section of the brain is responsible for our emotions and responds strongly to feelings like love, hate, affection, rejection and fear. Dealing with situations using the amygdala causes situations to seem much more dramatic and emotional for adolescents than it would be for an adult. Also causing teenagers to be more impulsive because of the overwhelming emotions that are constantly hitting them.

“Looking back now things that I believed then to be very important dramatic issues in my life seem very childish and silly,” said Davenport resident Karen Gall, 37.

“Once you graduate from high school you

Tattoo artist faces ink everyday

By Emily Thumann

After waiting 18 years to become legal, teenagers have the freedom to make decisions, without their parent’s approval. Many of these teenagers get tattoos, which has become very popular in the United States. However, this decision can be threatening.

“We get people coming in and getting tattoos impulsively a few times a week,” said Dave Ellis, tattoo artist of Ynot Ink. Most people regret the first tattoo they get because they don’t take the time to think about what they want to get.

“Some people just walk in and see some-

thing they like and want to get it tattooed on them,” said Ellis. “Usually names but it depends on what the person wants.”

Tattoos done in the spur of the moment are usually the ones that get covered up or removed first.

“We get people coming in to get cover ups all the time,” said Ellis. “One of our tattoo artists won top prize for cover up tattoos at a convention recently.”

When people get tattoos impulsively they don’t think about the consequences of their actions. Some people even get tattoos done by random people outside of tattoo shops and the consequences of that can be very dangerous.

“People need to realize that it’s dangerous if you go to a random person to get a tattoo. It can spread diseases and get infected,” said Ellis.

Tattoos can cause many issues including; allergic reactions, skin reactions, and blood borne diseases like hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and Hiv. “We had a girl come in with a tattoo on her wrist wanting to know what was wrong with it. It looked like it was eating her skin because she didn’t get it done properly and it got infected,” said Ellis. “She had to go to the doctor to get medicine to stop the infection.”

begin to realize that I didn’t really matter what you were wearing, who is dating whom, all the he said she said drama,” said Davenport resident Linda Schumacher.

poll

Have you done anything on an impulse in the past year?

SOURCE: Beak ‘n’ Eye survey of 124 students

PERMANENT - Many teens can’t wait until they can get a tattoo.

But later on, some discover that they were a mistake.

Focus 7

What is something you do impulsively?

Shoppers pay price

By Emily Thumann

Impulsive shopping creates a big problem in The United States for many people. Thousands of people spend more money than they can afford on shopping and eventually go into debt everyday.

A very common way to impulsively shop is online shopping. The internet makes today’s shopping easier than ever.

“I shop online because the internet has exclusive deals and exclusive clothes,” said Devonta Crumpton, Senior.

“I spend about 500 dollars every two weeks” People result to online shopping because it’s convenient and you can purchase anything you want with the click of a button.

“The good thing about shopping online is you can use a credit card or debit card and its safe. I use my debit card and I’ve never had any problems with it,” said Crumpton.

There are down sides to shopping though, one of the biggest problems with impulsive shopping is spending money you don’t have and going into debt.

Once you go into debt, it’s very hard to get out of it.

“I work at McDonalds and I spend all my money on shopping,” said Crumpton.

“I’ve never gone into debt but I have had overdrafts before, which is bad because you end up paying more than you would’ve paid in the first place.”

Impulsive shoppers crave shopping like alcoholics crave alcohol according to moneycentral.msn.com. People impulsively shop to distract feelings, gain approval, buy things they don’t need because it’s on sale, find perfect outfits and many other reasons.

“I keep shopping because seeing nice clothes inspire me to look good,” said Photo by Blake Rees Crumpton. “My favorite thing is knowing that I’m going to look good SHOPAHOLIC - A shopper goes from store to store to get the best deal. when I buy it.”

Angry driver learns lesson

By Blake Rees

Brain and moods change with age

Beak ‘n’ Eye

Friday, December 9, 2011

After waiting 16 years, teenagers finally have the freedom to drive without a parent. Although this being a fun experience it also comes with a lot of responsibilities.

Many teenagers tend to drive impulsively meaning, when their emotions get out of hand they take it out when they drive causing a very dangerous situation.

“My experience of driving impulsively happened last summer, I was following my sister not in a good mood at all so I was driving reckless,” said Zac Mirfield, junior. “I was following her really close and didn’t realize she stopped at a stop light and ran right into the back of her, she was pretty bruised up and her car was totaled. I definitely learned that I will never let my emotions effect my driving again,” Lack of driving experience contributes to young drivers’ inability to consistently recognize the conditions that are risky

experienced drivers. This is particularly problematic since less experienced drivers are not yet equipped to deal with the multiple cognitive activities involved in driving even without the interference of distractions that takes their attention.

Teenagers are urged to drive cautiously and carefully reducing the risk of impulsive driving now and Photo by Erin Pershall in the future.

CRASH- Approximately 16,934 car accidents Dealing with this probare reported to police every day, according to lem can be very easily funtrivia.com. solved, limit your passengers, avoid stressful driving, when driving. The presence of friends in and whenever you start to feel stressed pull the vehicle with a young driver often douover and wait it out. Many people suffer bles the risk to engage in impulsive behavwith this problem without even knowing, iors.

Some research indicates that young but by taking small easy steps it will make drivers are more easily distracted than for a better and brighter future.

“When I’m mad, I play basketball.” - Andrew McWilliams, senior

“I listen to music when I’m mad.” - Caitlyn McCreight, junior

“I go ride my horses when I’m sad/mad.” - Aleana Riley, junior

Rage increases accidental fights

By Blake Rees

Are you someone that tends to do things without thinking through the consequences? Making bad decisions, often getting in trouble? Do you often act based on your feelings and based on the moment and not thinking it through? You may be suffering from impulsive behaviors. Many students here at West High School suffer from this disorder. One major impulsive behavior is fighting.

“When I get mad I fight anyone I see,” says Andy Bierl, junior. “My most recent fight got me into a lot of trouble. The only reason I got into a fight was because someone said something I didn’t like so I reacted with violence. Many consequences fell into play after this; I got suspended for five days. Not solving anything with the fight. It also left a bad impression on me by the teachers leaving them thinking I was a bad kid; really I just overreacted to a situation that wasn’t even worth fighting for. I should have ignored the student and kept walking and I probably would never have seen him again,” says Bierl.

Fighting in today’s society is believed to solve many problems. When in reality it’s a disorder that can bring you trouble in the long run. Impulsivity is a tendency to act quickly without thinking about the consequences of your actions.

Many students get caught into a heap of trouble when acting this way, leading to detention, suspension, or even expulsion.

There are ways you can cope with this problem without falling

into the dark road of no where.

According to most students at West High School many people suffer from this condition, not completely ruining their life, but definitely affecting them.

When dealing with an impulsive behavior a good thing to do would be to replace your impulsive behavior with a healthy behavior.

Even though impulsive behaviors may lead to long-term problems, in the moment, they are serving a purpose. Try to find a healthy way of relieving emotional pain that will not have long-term negative consequences for you.

Impulsive behaviors can be very difficult to deal with however, it is possible. Just know you’re not the only one dealing with this condition.

“I work out when I get mad.”

- Tirael Malone, freshman

“I run/swim when i get sad.”

- Courtney Remley, sophomore

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8 Trends

Beak ‘n’ Eye

Friday, December 9, 2011

In the ‘cloud’

Although Steve Jobs has passed away, his legacy lives through the latest Apple invention -- ‘the cloud’

By Kelsey Ralfs

Steve Jobs once said “I want to put a ding in the universe,” and he succeeded in doing just that.

From his humble beginnings making computers in a car garage, to the massive industry of Apple Computers, Steve Jobs has forever changed our music industry.

Way back in 1976, the first Apple computer was designed. It had state-of-theart appliances and was very expensive at the time.

While a simple computer was a craze back then, today we have an overabundance of Apple products.

One of these applications, the iPod, has taken over our music industry. While many people still enjoy buying CD’s to look at the artwork or to collect for money one day, others are saving space and materials by simply logging onto their itunes account and downloading an mp3.

West students, according to a Beak’n’ Eye survey, prefer music off of itunes rather than buying a CD. The great thing about Itunes is that it gives just as much money to the artist as the CD would. iTunes also allows the buyer to purchase videos, podcasts, and game apps.

Music has become like a

social network. It’s linking people together because it is so accessible.

The most recent invention, The Cloud, allows the user to sync a song on his or her ipod and find it on his or her computer when they return home without syncing it.

With the increasing amount of inventions in the music industry, it’s clear that music will only become more important in our lives.

Presidential Sex Scandals

Free MP3s

Photo Illustration by Kelsey Ralfs

With the Herman Cain accusations on the rise, let’s take a look at some other presidential sexual affairs.

Herman Cain

Photo by Kelsey Ralfs

NEW TOOL- The new “Cloud” allows listeners to sync a song on their iPod and find it already synced on their computer.

What’s trending?

West High students of all ages are finding interest in new hybrid cars, tight pants, and unique ‘sports’

In October 2011, it was reported that two female employees had complained about inappropriate behavior

by Cain, but he states, “I have never sexually harassed anyone and those accusations are totally false”.

Republican Sharon Bialek, made allegations of a sexual assault in Cain’s car in the summer of 1997. Another allegation made against Cain stated that he had an affair for thirteen years. All of these allegations eventually made him drop out of the running for the next president of the United States. He hasn’t yet been proven innocent or guilty of any sexual assault cases, but the accusations have taken a tole on his life.

Bill Clinton

President Clinton’s sex scandal emerged in 1998 when his affair with his 22 year old intern, Monica Lewinsky, was discovered. They were exposed through Monica’s friend, Linda Tripp, who recorded their telephone calls. This scandal led to the impeachment of President Clinton and is often referred to as “Monicagate” or “Zippergate.”

John Kennedy

photo by Kelsey Ralfs

Vinny Cannavo, senior, gets his “plank on” on top of a nearby recycle bin.

Planking

By Kelsey Ralfs

Planking or “the lying down game” is a new craze in kids and adults alike. Planking is the process of lying face down in an unusual location with the person’s hands at their side. It’s not an official plank unless someone takes a picture.

Students at West High are joining in on the fun. Some great places to plank are: downtown, the Mall, trash cans, and railings.

Planks can be done in single, double, or even triple planks. Planking can be dangerous, so be sure to take precautions before doing one.

photo by Kelsey Ralfs

The New Hybrid Sonata contains both gas and electric power.

Hybrid cars

By Kelsey Ralfs

The new Hybrid Sonata by Hyundai has a combination of both gas and electric power. It has Motor Driven Power Steering, front-wheel drive, and a fully parallel hybrid system. Motor-driven power steering gives the driver more assistance when parking.

According to “Hybrid Cars,” the hybrid market is up by 7.5 percent from last August. More customers are beginning to purchase Hybrid cars because it saves them gas.

photo by Kelsey Ralfs

Karli Murrens, Senior, enjoys wearing yoga pants almost everyday.

Yoga pants

By Kelsey Ralfs

Yoga pants are a new comfortable and fashionable item of clothing worn in majority by girls. They allow the wearer to move about freely and have a great butt.

Stores like Victoria’s Secret, Forever 21, and even Target carry all sorts of these pants.

They come in all different colors and sizes. For example, leopard patterns are trending at Victoria’s Secret along with the word “Pink” framed on the butt. Karli Murrens, senior, says, “Everyday is a yoga pants day!”

To prep for a game: Eat HyVee and chill with the team.

To deal with height: “Jump a lot!”

John F. Kennedy was known as a women chaser. He had so many sexual encounters that most were not even documented. He used the Secret Service to cover his tracks and make sure there was no “evidence” of the affair left behind for his wife Jackie to find. JFK also had a suite on the 8th floor of Washington’s Mayflower Hotel always on his beck and call for any of his mistresses. It’s even rumored that he was involved in threesomes.

Thomas Jefferson

Thomas Jefferson met a fair-skinned slave in Paris and brought her back with him to Monticello. They had five children together from the affair, but only one of them survived to adulthood. The children were so fair skinned that they could pass in the white community without any problems. When Jefferson died, he had clearly stated in his will that Hemings and the children be freed from slavery.

John Adams

Opponents of President John Adams, during his reelection campaign of 1800, got accused of using his vice-presidential running mate, Charles C. Pinckney, as a pimp. The President, politicians charged, had sent Pinckney to England to “procure four pretty girls as mistresses, a pair for each elderly gentleman.” Adams wrote in a letter to a friend that “I do declare upon my honor, if this be true, General Pinckney has kept them all for himself and cheated me out of my two.”

Wrestlers count on leadership

Goal:“I am hoping for a few dunks this year!”

To contribute: “I will do mybest as point guard to lead the team.”

SEX- Presidents like Bill Clinton, shown here, take their power and use it for immoral actions like affairs.

Strengths: “One of our biggest strengths is senior leadership,” Coach Heller said.

“Our team has really strong mentality,” Evan Felix said Weaknesses: “Underclassman involvement. We have no freshmen and only three sophomores,” said Coach Heller Who to watch: “Muscatine, because they are former state champs,” Felix said Last meet and how it went: “JV went against all of the MAC teams, they swam very well,” Heller said.

How they are preparing and hope to do at the next meet: “The next meet will be held at Bettendorf. I think the team will do well but for the first varsity competition I’ll be curious to see how well they’ll do,” said Coach Heller.

Height: 6’6 Avg. points per game: 10.5 Rebounds per game: 18 (Leading the MAC with 17 rebounds)

Goal: “I’m hoping for a lot more wins this year!”

Sports 9

By Ashley VanWinkle

COLE TATGE

To prep for a game: Listens to music that is fast-paced .

How to deal with tall opponents: “I don’t really have to deal with tall people as point guard.”

SOURCE: Beak ’n’ Eye survey of 128 students

Seniors lead swim team

Basketball teams counting on these talented players Height: 5’5” Avg. points per game: 9.5 Rebounds per game: 4.5

How West students get their music

Purchased MP3s

It’s a tall order

Beak ‘n’ Eye

BROOKLYN GARNICA

poll

Purchased CDs

Friday, December 9, 2011

To contribute: “I’ll try my best to get a lot of rebounds and also a lot of 3-pointers for the team!”

By Ashley VanWinkle

Strengths: “This year we are a lot more prepared seeing that I’m not a first year coach anymore,” said Photo By Ashley VanWinkle Chris Heilman “We have a lot of really great leaders this year,” said Randy McPhee.

Weaknesses: “We don’t have a lot of depths as some of the weights,”said Coach Heilman. specific drills.” improve a lot since our off season trainWho to watch: “We pay close attention to all of the The girls agree that the shooting and ing started,” Coach Steve Saladino said. teams, but especially gun for teams like Bettendorf, “I just want to see improvement, that’s all gym workouts are crucial for a great sea- Assumption, and Iowa West,”said Heilman. son. “I pump iron in the gym a lot,” sen- Last meet and how it went: “Last week was against I’m hoping for this year.” ior Samie Belz said.

The girls have not only been training PV and Bettendorf. We started off strong but then we “I do a lot of shooting, shoot, shoot, in practices, they began training through didn’t finish as well. We also wrestled in Dubuque shoot,” Moore added. all of off season. “We usually had shootover the weekend. It went all right, but we lost a lot “The girls have been practicing hard, ing practices a few times a week all off of positions,” said Heilman. and they’re very coachable, so I’m look- How they are preparing and hope to do at the next season,” Saladino said. “We also do a lot ing forward to the season.” Saladino said. meet: “I am expecting to put together a much better of BFS, weight room workouts, and skill performance in the next few competitions. We are training through our last event, and our main goal is to peak at district and state tounaments,” said Heilman.

Girls start out with a bang

By Ashley VanWinkle

The girls basketball team is starting out the year strong, with a 52-15 win against Morning Star on Nov. 22.

“We played well they had a few challenging players but I’m glad we could pull off a good solid win,” senior Mallory Moore said.

“The girls have really seemed to

Boys keep pace with last year

By Edi Turcinhodzic

The boys basketball team lost its first game of the season against Cedar Rapids Prairie on Monday, Nov. 28 to a much improved Cedar Rapids team, showing them that this year may be a little tougher than last.

“We gave good effort throughout the game, but struggled with free throw shooting and rebounding. We also had 17 turnovers,” explained coach Mark Bigler.

“Each team takes on its own person-

ality. Last season we had a lineup of players who had been together three seasons and had grown up together. This season we are attempting to blend experienced seniors with a number of underclassmen,” added Bigler.

Having the new members doesn’t seem to be a threat to such a focused group. “Our biggest challenge this year is our size. We don’t have any tall big men, such as Nate Wells from last year’s team,” said Tyrus Johnson, junior.

“Our experience at guard is our

Boys Basketball

FRIDAY, DEC. 9 Who we play: Pleasant Valley, Home Time: 6:00pm TUESDAY, DEC. 13 Who we play: Muscatine, away Time: 6:00pm

FRIDAY, DEC. 16 Who we play: Muscatine, away Time: 6:00pm

TUESDAY, JAN. 3 Who we play: North, away Time: 4:15/7:30pm

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strength. Joe Scott is a returning all-state player and Darren Stringfellow is a returning All-MAC player,” said Bigler.

The second game of the season ended in a 47-33 victory over Iowa City High.

Joe Scott led the team with 17 points, Cole Tatge had 9 rebounds, and Darren shared the love with 6 assists.

“Something we definitely did better the second game was playing with more intensity and confidence,” said Bigler.

The next game is Friday, Dec 9, at home against Pleasant Valley.

Sports Schedule

Girls Basketball

WEDNESDAY, DEC. 9 Who we play: Pleasant Valley, away Time: 6:00pm TUESDAY, DEC. 13 Who we play: Muscatine, home Time: 6:00pm

FRIDAY, DEC. 16 Who we play: Bettendorf, home Time: 6:00pm

MONDAY, DEC. 19 Who we play: Bettendorf (JV), home Time: 6:00pm

Photo By Becca Sandry

IN IT TO WIN IT- The boys basketball team played United Township on Dec. 6

Boys Swiming

THURSDAY, DEC. 15 Who we play: North, away Time: 6:00pm

THURSDAY, JAN. 5 Who do we play: Pleasant Valley, home Time:6:00pm

Wrestling

SATURDAY, DEC. 10 Who we play: RiverdaleInvite, away Time:9:00am

THURSDAY, Dec. 15 Who we play: Rock Island, home Time: 6:00pm

SATURDAY, DEC. 17 Who we play: Ft. Dodge, @North Time: 11:00am SATURDAY, DEC. 17 Who we play: MAC JV tourny, @North Time: 9:00am

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10 Editorials

Beak ‘n’ Eye

Friday, December 9, 2011

Friday, December 9, 2011

Hold parents accountable

our view

Art by Sami Mills

Corporal punishment still legal

When some students get in trouble, they get a beating--not from their parents but from their principal.

Corporal punishment is still very much around. It is legal in 19 states. Over 223,000 children were disciplined with corporal punishment in 2005-06, the U.S. Dept. of Education reported.

However, corporal punishment is going too far in school settings, so far that it can be described as child abuse.

Many people say they are OK with corporal punishment in schools because it has taught children to behave over the ages, according to child-discipline-withlove.com.

Marilyn Peters, head guidance counselor said, “Corporal punishment is not necessarily child abuse, but there is a difference between swatting and full on beating a child.”

When a person beats a dog, it’s considered animal abuse. If a child hits a parent it can also be called assault. Or even if a couple is living together and one hits the other that is called domestic violence.

Yet, if we hit a child, it is called discipline. Do people see the problem yet?

As kids in high school we are supposed to follow the rules: no cheating, and no failing classes. A student runs

poll

Did your parents spank you when you were a child?

SOURCE: Beak ’n’ Eye survey of 120 students

down the hall and is told not to do that, because they could get other students hurt. Then the principal takes the paddle to the student’s behind, hurting them

instead. Maybe this was acceptable 100 years ago, but in this age it is not.

Over 100 countries prohibit schools from using corporal punishment.

Severe forms of corporal punishment can range from flogging (to beat with with a rod or whip) to saucing (placing a dab of hot sauce on your finger and in putting on the child’s tongue). These forms do not just cause physical pain, but in the long run can cause emotional pain, that will not easily go away.

Corporal punishment can also happen in a home environment. Peters said, “Discipline is a parent’s decision.”

Discipline doesn’t have to be spanking a child, it could be just talking to them and make them realize what they did wrong.

Principal Nancy Jacobsen said, “Reasonable people should come up with reasonable non-violet acts of punishment for problems. Not using anger.”

Corporal punishment should be considered child abuse because the child suffers physical and mental pain. A person wouldn’t want someone else or anyone to hurt their dog, why would they want someone to hurt their child?

Jacobsen says, “The best discipline in the world is self-discipline.” If that doesn’t happen, there are always detentions.

Student’s tweet stirs big reaction Emma Sullivan, an 18-year-old high school student from Topeka, Kansas, got into trouble for some of the things she posted on Twitter while on a student field trip to visit the governor of Kansas.

Sullivan had reportedly tweeted, “Just made mean comments at governor Brownback and told him he sucked, in person. #blowsalot.”

One of Brownback’s campaign workers had seen the post then reported her to

her principal, Karl Krawitz. Sullivan was advised by her principal to write a letter of apology to the Brownback because she embarrassed the school. However, she did not write the apology letter.

After Sullivan’s Twitter post, her followers jumped from 60 of her close friends to 12,000 people all over the world due to media coverage of the event.

Sullivan had the right to post this

tweet because of the constitutional right to freedom of speech. People have a right to harshly criticize elected officials.

Although her comments were crude, they were intended for her friends.

The school went too far in suggesting that she write an apology, and the the governor’s assistant had no right to overreact so intensely over a schoolgirl’s comment. This was all blown way out of proportion.

What was your worse holiday present?

“My mom got me a clay working set for Christmas before.”

- Dan Dankert senior

“I got coal from my friend CJ for Christmas one year.”

- Ashley Sehmann junior

“My worst holiday present was clothes when I was little, from my uncles.”

- Jonathan Garcia sophomore

When students skip school, they don’t think about their parents getting in trouble. They just think about themselves. Normally a student would just get a detention or some other form of punishment. Not in this case.

Lately many more parents are getting in trouble for their kids skipping school or being late. Although parents can not always control their children, parents are responsible for them. That is why we believe the parents need to be accountable for the child’s truancy.

Parents are getting punished for their child being truant. Their punishment can be from a 20-day confinement to a year in jail. If a student has not attended school for more than ten percent, of the school days, without a valid excuse, the school board will talk to that child’s parents. If the parent then does not make sure their student is at school, the parent could be subjected to prosecution.

It is the parents fault for not making their child go to school. Perhaps the parent has to go to work, early, and they know that the child knows they have school to attend. Is it the parents fault for working and not being home? Do parents have control over the child when they “go to classes” but are really outside smoking?

It’s understandable to punish a parent who knows that the child is skipping. One recent case involved Anita Horn from Clinton, Iowa. “That action came after Horn’s 15-year-old daughter missed 16 class hours and was tardy four times between Dec. 23 and Feb. 17, violating a truancy mediation contract,” wrote QCTimes.com. The Clinton woman was charged with 20 days confinement.

Iowa compulsory attendance and truancy law states, “The parent, guardian, or legal or actual custodian of a child who is of compulsory attendance age (6-16 years old), shall cause the child to attend some public school, an accredited nonpublic school, or competent private instruction.” So basically a parent has to make a child go to school, otherwise the parent could get in trouble.

Every parent should make their child go to school.

School is not like doing chores; a person can’t wait and do it later. We believe it is good that a parent is accountable for their child being truant, but the child should also be punished. So much for parental responsibility.

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See this 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 editor Backpage editor Artists Adviser

“For Christmas one year, my grandma bought me batteries.”

-Lakin Fix freshman Compiled by Haley Benisch

Erin Pershall Krista Johnson Hieu Nguyen Cassidy Frost Arina Russkikh Bethany Puetsch Blake Rees Emily Thumann Ashley Vanwinkle Edi Turcinhodzic Sebastian Roe Haley Benisch Logan Allen Kelsey Ralfs Becca Sandry 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.

Voice 11

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Iowa Caucus January 3rd

Kenya like we’ve never seen before now

Art by Sami Mills

When Kenya is mentioned many people think of great athletes and different animals, but this is the only thing that Kenya has.

Here are some facts that will enable you to know Kenya in broad terms.

Mwalimu Kaingu The Kenyan population is made up of more than 42 different communities, making it to be among the most diverse population in Africa. The African people of Kenya account for 97 percent of the total population. There are three linguistic groups: Bantus, Nilotes, and Cushites. The Bantus makes two thirds of the whole country population.

Each of these 42 communities speak different dialects. Kiswahili and English (UK) are the national languages. Kiswahili is one of the languages that use other words from foreign languages like French and Arabic. Also in Kenya, there are some foreign communities with no African origin. They immigrated to Kenya during the colonial rule from India, Saudi Arabia, Portugal, Britain and Pakistan.

In Kenya, we don’t have a national religion. However, the majority of Africans are members of Roman Catholic, Anglican and

other protestant churches. These religious connections come from early missionary activities of colonial times. At least 65 percent of the population is Christian. The other religions include Hinduism, Islam. Different communities have different names to their God (Mulungu, Were, Ngai etc.).

Traditional beliefs of African population are very strong in society. For example, natural objects like big rocks and trees are considered to be sacred!

In the entertainment scene, Kenyans love to party. The music style known as “Benga” is contemporary dress.

Kenya has public Art by Kayla Garcia holidays, which include: Celebration of the soldiers that fought during the colonial rule, Mashujaa Day Oct. 20, and Jamhuri Day, which is Independence Day, Dec. 12..

The Kenyan main dish is ugali, which is made from corn. Other food comes from goats, sheep, pigs, birds, cows, camels and fish from the Indian Ocean.. Of the vegetables, Sukuma wiki and kales are the best.

Kinship ties are one of the most important features of the Kenyan culture. A big percentage lives in extended families. They live in scatteered settlements and villages.

In the traditional society, tribes are normally determined by geographic region and common culture. Each society has their own political and social organization but, there is the central government that is in control. Family kinship is still maintained.

Relations by blood or marriage are the strongest forces in traditional society.

There is a lot of revolution going on.

This has been brought about by the use of mobile phones and computers.

Kenya is a peaceful country that has refuges from other countries.

Kenyans appreciate their cultural diversity and live in peace, regardless of the differences that may exist. Also, it is a country where you can experience the real cultural diversity as well as understand the concept of cultural values.

In 2008, President Barack Obama won the Presidency. It was a long road. First he had to fight off strong candidates such as Hilary Clinton and John Edwards in the Democratic primaries and caucuses.

President Dan Obama first Dankert began to emerge above the fray after winning the Iowa Caucus. He rode the momentum gained after winning the Iowa caucus to win the Democratic Party Presidential Nomination and he defeated Republican Nominee John McCain to become the 44th President of the U.S.A. This time around Obama doesn’t have to travel the caucus road.

Only the Republicans do. The Republicans are trying to figure out who is the best candidate to face off against President Barack Obama in the 2012 election. Iowa is the first of 50 caucuses or primaries. Iowa is considered the most important of these because it is the first. Here, candidates get the momentum needed to earn money from potential donors, and endorsements form influential newspapers and political figures.

The Republicans have a tough decision to make. Four years ago the Republicans chose to go with a moderate candidate in John McCain. The intention was to help sway independents take votes away from the Democratic Party.

By doing this, and by rousing conservative support through Vice Presidential Candidate Sarah Palin, the Republicans hoped to win the election. This idea was a total bust. President Obama won over independents and handily won the election. Two years ago,

a small group of people started the Tea Party, and it has grown substantially. Many conservative Republicans side with their platform, which includes shrinking government, lowering taxes, and decreasing spending. Because of the strong Tea Party influence in the Republican Party, it will be difficult to nominate a moderate candidate.

Right now, it seems to be a two-person race. On top of the field is Newt Gingrich, who is a former Speaker of the House. He is one of the most social conservative candidates when it comes to abortion and gay marriage, but is more moderate in his fiscal policy. He has the speaking ability of a Daniel Webster, the intelligence of an Adlai Stevenson, and after his comments on illegal immigration he appears to have the heart of Jimmy Carter.

Behind Gingrich sits Mitt Romney. Romney is by far the most moderate candidate the Republicans can choose. As governor of Massachusetts, he helped implement a form of universal health care. His idea of health care mandate was used in the bill that the Republicans most affectionately call “Obamacare.”

Romney has never firmly been able to keep the top spot in the polls, even though he has reached that coveted spot several times.

After Michelle Bachmann and Herman Cain’s rise and fall from the top it seems that conservatives are looking for anyone but Romney.

As Iowans, we have a chance to set the tone of the coming caucus and primary season. A win here for any candidate is a major victory and has the potential to give a candidate enough momentum to eventually land in the White House. Who wins is important, but what is more important is that Iowans go out to vote and take part in the American political system.

Jesus is no longer present on Christmas because Santa took his place Christmas is a wonderful time of year. Arguably the best part is spending time with family and friends, and sharing gifts with them.

But have we lost sight of the true meaning of Christmas?

People today tend to forget that Christmas started out as a Sebastian celebration of the birth of Jesus. The Roe holiday sprang up as a celebration of what he stood for, charity, generosity and kindness.

Today, Jesus has been replaced with Santa, as the icon of Christmas. Now Christmas has gone from being a day of worship, to a day of gifts and capitalism. People have traded in religious values for gifts and frivolity. Too many people have lost their way, and decided to make the day about gifts.

I think that it is ridiculous that people ask for so much around the holiday season. It is one thing if someone wants to give gifts out of generosity or charity. I enjoy giving gifts for the holidays, but I don’t ever expect anything

Likes-

Being halfway through the school year – Just the fact that we’re half way through this year means we are that much closer to going to the next grade and everyone is that much closer to graduating, which is awesome.

Foreign people – We like foreign people because they are always full of mystery. We nor-

Art by Sami Mills

in return. If someone gets you something you should be thankful and gracious about it, not rude.

Likes & Dislikes

mally know nothing about them or where they’re from. It’s always exciting learning about them and their cultures and there accents will always put a smile on your face!

Dislikes-

Students skiping, but staying in the school. – All they do is wander around while causing distractions in the hallways. Staying in

It is very important to preserve the spirit of Christmas, and I believe that we should still give gifts.

When someone gives us a gift we should not only say thank you, but we should get them something in return, in the spirit of Christmas. We shouldn’t, however expect that just because you get something for someone that they will give you something. It may be the nice thing to do, but it isn’t always what happens.

Last year for my family Christmas celebration, we did a gift exchange. All of the adults were supposed to buy gifts for all the kids and then one gift to be given as a secret Santa gift. Instead of following all of the directions, the adults bought for some kids, and other kids that were there had to do without. If you are going to give gifts, you either give to all of the kids, or none of them in a family, you can’t pick favorites. This year, instead of doing the secret Santa exchange, we are supposed to buy for the kids and nobody else.

Christmas should be about the kids, not the adults. It’s time to embrace the true holiday spirit, before everyone forgets what the holidays are all about.

class is super, but if we skip then we could become super seniors. It’s already dumb to skip school, but to do it in school is just lunk-headed.

Girls take pride in being called bitch, slut, or whore – People say these words for a reason and it’s not a good one. So, don’t take these words as a compliment. All that does is proves is that you truly are what they say you are.

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12 Snow

Beak ‘n’ Eye

Cool places to be this winter

Friday, December 9, 2011

Snow survival tips

With the winter season upon us, there are many percautions that can be taken to make sure you don’t get stuck out in the cold.

There are many fun things to do this winter. If you’re looking for a hot spot to sled or ski, consider the following places.

Outside

Snow Star: Located in Andalusia, Illinois, Snow Star is one of the key spots for snowboarding, skiing, and tubing this winter. If you’re either a beginner or an advanced skier, snowboarder, or tuber Snow Star will have the slopes for you. Ski and snowboard rental are available if needed to take an adventure down the various slopes. Costs for an all day flex (9:00pm -close) are 3$2. Afternoon flex (noon- close) is $28 and evening (4-close) is $24.

● Find shelter as soon as possible. The cold wind will lower your core body temperature.

Hypothermia and frostbite increases every minute you are outside. ● Stay hydrated. Do not eat snow though. Your body still needs to heat the ice and melt it. Take some snow and place it in a canteen if you have one and place it inside of your coat, this will cause it to melt.

Chestnut Mountain: Located in Galena, Illinois, a premier Illinois resort that offers nineteen trails and an acre terrain park for your skiing experience. “The Far Side“ has over 25 trails with various features for skiing. Chestnut spans over 220 rolling acres with a total vertical drop of 475 feet. On a regular weekend, not including holidays, the cost is $47 , $40 on a weekday, and nighttime (4-close) is $35 .

Photo by Becca Sandry

COMPILED BY:Becca Sandry SOURCE: http://www.skisnowstar.com/ http://www.chestnutmtn.com/about.cfm

READY, SET, SNOW- Carter Wakefield is ready for winer.

In a vehicle

● Keep yourself moving. Either wiggle around in your seat, clap your hands, or stomp your feet. This allows blood to flow better through your body. Also keep an open mind. Don’t dwell on being stranded because it will stress you out and can possibly make you make bad decisions. ● Make the car visible for a rescue. Hang bits of bright colored cloth or plastic from the windows. A signal of distress is to open the hood of your car.

Home

● Keep the window curtains opened during the day and closed during the night.

Stay hydrated just in case the heat and power are out for longer than expected.

COMPILED BY: Erin Pershall SOURCE: Weather.about.com

Snow troubles

Snow records

“Last year the snow was really high and it snowed me into my house, and when I tried to go outside I got sucked into the snow bank.”

-Sydnee Collins, junior “When I was on my way to work, I hit a very icy patch on the interstate, which made my vehicle spin out of control. It was freaking scary.”

-Alex Valenzuela, senior

Have a happy holiday season from the Beak ‘n’ Eye staff

1432 W. Locust St. Davenport, IA 52804 563 323-5070

Roxanne Hampton, Stylist Erin Smith, Stylist

What is your favorite thing to do in winter?

2008- 57.1 in.

2010- 46.2 in.

2007- 45.3 in.

2009- 40.1 in.

2011- 40.1 in.

2006- 16.9 in.

For some poeple, winter isn’t always a “winter wonderland”. With all the joys of the winter season, there is going to be a downfall.

“My cousin and I were on Highway 22 after he picked me up for school last year, when it was snowing, and this bozo turned the corner without a turning signal causing my cousin to hit his brakes. When he did that he ended up sliding right into the guy.

It was bad.”

-Meagin Taylor, junior

poll

COMPILED BY: Becca Sandry SOURCE: Andy McCray CBS4 News

Test your knowledge of snow

Art by: Kayla Garcia

1. Which of the following words is not a slang term for snow? a. Mashed Potatoes b. Snog c. Dust on Crust d. Champagne Snow

2. Where is the coldest place in North America? a. Alaska b. Yellowknife, Northwest Territories

Territory of Canada c. Iqaluit, Nunavut Territory of Canada d. Snag, Yukon Territory of Canada

3. How many different general forms of snowflakes are there? a. 7 b. Unlimited c. 3 d. 15

SOURCE: Beak ’n’ Eye survey of 102 students

4. How big is the biggest snowflake that was found in the United States? a. 7.8 inches wide and 3.1 inches thick b. 2.3 inches wide and 1.5 inches thick c.14.9 inches wide and 7.8 inches thick d.10.2 inches wide and 7.4 inches thick Answers: 1. b 2. d 3. a 4. c