Beak'n'Eye - April 12, 2013

April 12, 2013 Vol. 53 Issue 7

BEAK ‘N’ EYE

sexual assault Depression and anxiety may haunt victims long after the attack Page 12

WEST HIGH SCHOOL

3505 W LOCUST ST.

DAVENPORT, IOWA 52804

5

CONTENTS

Qween Amar, of Orlando, Florida, dances as demonstrators gather as arguments are heard on California’s Proposition 8 concerning gay marriage, outside the U.S. Supreme Court in Washington, D.C., Tuesday, March 26, 2013. (Molly Riley/MCT)

10

5 As Ranger Steve visits environmental science class, students dress Mr. Strunk as a Bald Eagle. (photo by Corralle Whalen)

The engineering class makes their Harlem Shake video. (contributed photo)

COVER STORY

VOICE

12-13 SEXUAL ASSAULT- The effects of sexual assault can be devastating. The story of a former West High School student’s victimization is shared.

8 BAN SMOKING- Will it help if the tobacco and cigarettes are hidden in gas stations and convenience store locations?

NEWS 3 WESTPOINT- Honoring Brett Morales and his acedemic scholarship to Westpont in New York.

5 GAY MARRIAGE- Discussing gay marriage rights.

6 MELANOMA- The harmful affects of tanning.

LEISURE 10 REVIEWS- What’s hot and what’s not in move and music.

FEATURE 14 SEXUAL ASSAULTS- Ways to protect oneself from being attacked.

BEAK ‘N’ EYE ● APRIL12, 2013

Beak ‘n’ Eye Staff Editors in Chief Becca Sandry Emily Thumann News Editors Becca Sandry Catherine Goodall Voice Editor Emily Thumann Leisure Editor Corralle Whalen Focus Editor Ashley VanWinkle Sports Editors Malik Salsberry Tyler Masterson Katie Mazzarollo Faces Editor DesaRay McGee Adviser Steve Lyle The Beak ‘n’ Eye newsmagazine is published eight times a year from West High School, 3505 W. Locust St., Davenport, Iowa 52806.The content is produced by students, and does not represent the views of the Davenport school district or its employees. As an open forum, the Beak ‘n’ Eye staff encourages letters to the editor. Member of Iowa High school Press Association.

Cover Photo -

April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month.

See our feature stories on pages 12-14 to see how counselors can help.

SPORTS 15-17 SPRING SPORTS - Find out who’s leading the Falcons to victory 18 BOWLING- Girls bowling team places third at state.

BACK PAGE 20 OLYMPICS- Wrestling dropped from the Olympics.

WEST HIGH SCHOOL ● 3505 W LOCUST ST. DAVENPORT, IA 52804

NEWS

Senior picked by West Point

By Erika McCreary Reporter

S

enior Brett Morales was appointed to the prestigious United States Military Academy at West Point in March because of his outstanding athletics and academics.

To get appointed to West Point you must get a nomination from a verifiable source, Morales was nominated by Iowa congressmen Bruce Braley, Tom Harken and Chuck Grassley. Morales received a phone call from Braley in March confirming his acceptance into West Point.

After getting the call from Congressman Braley, Morales was ecstatic. “I was so excited that I ran, and screamed, and jumped up and down on the couch” Morales said.

Getting nominated for the academy is only confirming that you have a chance to get in, it doesn’t mean that you were accepted. The phone call from a congressman is your acceptance into West Point.

Getting into West Point is very difficult.

About 1,000 new cadets are accepted each year. There are three important factors that decide if you get accepted, Morales said.

You need to have good grades, be athletic, and show leadership.

“I have a 3.9 GPA, I am in National Honor Society, I am also in varsity cross country, and track and field” said Morales.

Next, your SAT scores and essay are reviewed, and then you must take the Candidate Fitness Assessment, which consists of a timed one-mile run, a pull up test, a push up test, a sit up test, a shuttle run, and a basketball throw.

It is also required that you participate in at least one sport while you are at West Point.

West Point is a four-year military school. Tuition and housing is paid for by

the army, but to pay it back you must serve five years of active duty, and three years in the reserve as a military service payment.

Morales must report for basic training in New York by July 1. He wants to major in military engineering, as well as join the riflery and paintball teams.

His family was so proud that their son was accepted into West Point. “My mom was happy, but she was really worried too; she’s a mom, she’s supposed to worry.”

He said his father was a big influence when thinking about FITNESS TEST applying to West Here are the results of Point. His Brett Morales’ Candidate father was Fitness Assessment. a NCO, or non-ComPull ups: 15 in 1 min. missioned officer.

PUSH UPS: 74 in 2 min.

His father advised SIT UPS: 95 in 3 min. him to take “one day SHUTTLE: 7.6 sec. at a time” because 1 MILE RUN: 5:17 min. there will be many BASKETBALL challenges.

THROW: 78 feet Morales said he is nervous, but he is looking forward to the challenges ahead because “those really help you develop as a person.”

“It is a great opportunity to help the country, and for the country to help you,” said Morales.

“I’m going to miss my family, of course, my parents and my sister, and all the friends I have at West too.”

Paraeducator passes away over spring break

BY BECCA SANDRY Becca.Sandry3@gmail.com Paraeducator SuAnne Fiegel 60, of Buffalo, Iowa, passed away at her home from a blood clot on March 18.

Fiegel had been employed by Davenport Community Schools for 25 years. She also served on the Davenport Conservation

Board for the past 10 years. She was a member of Calvary Lutheran Church in Buffalo and served as its secretary. Her husband, Jack Fiegel, is a special education teacher at West.

Mrs. Fiegel was known fondly by many staff members at West.

“I’ve known Mr. and Mrs. Fiegel for a very long time,” said athletic director Al Blocker.

“Mrs. Fiegel was the nicest lady you would ever come across.

She was very caring, considerate with her students and others she worked with. She was organized and a very important part of the program where she worked. She will be greatly missed.”

The staff plans to remember Mrs. Fiegel by planting a tree in her memory.

SuAnne Fiegel

APRIL 12,

Taking the stage

NEWS

Senior Eli Shellabarger plans on singing and playing the guitar in the Variety Show.

“

I’m nervous about singing because I haven’t sang in front of a large group for a while.”

Senior Ian Richard plans to rap one of his own songs at the show.

“

I’ve always wanted to perform in front of people.”

Senior Dawn Vickers is in two acts this year. She is singing and doing a Color Guard act.

Senior Bailey Graham, left, and junior Kaci Kraft talk to senators about upcoming Charity Week events happening May 6-10 to raise money for Living Lands and Waters.

(photo by Cathering Goodall)

“

I’m looking forward to performing for people, it’s my absolute favorite thing to do.”

Student Senate hosts Charity Week

BY BECCA SANDRY Becca.sandry3@gmail.com

S

tudent Senate plans to get boatloads of involvement from the student body during Charity Week happening May 6-10.

“This year we have some new events that we hope people get excited about,” said vice president Jaime Peterson.

Student Senate will host a dodge ball tournament, and pie and penny throw along with new events this year: minute to win it, a staff vs student basketball game, and paint the windows.

For painting the windows each window will have a certain price. The prices range from $5 to $20 depending on the size of the window. When purchasing the window, students will be given a pass to participate in the event.

The variety show will be in the auditorium at 7 p.m. on May 10 and will feature several acts from West students. Admission is $5.

“The variety show is always something,” said Student Senate adviser Jodi Zimmerman. “There is awesome talent and energy; it’s always a lot of fun!”

The drum line plans on trying out this year to show off their talents once again.

“Our performance is completely student-directed and written,” said senior Kristopher Burney. “We are working hard to give the students at West the best performance they have ever seen out of us.”

During the variety show a silent auction will be held with all proceeds going to this year’s charity, Living Lands and Waters.

Living Lands and Waters goes out on river boats to collect the garbage from the land and brings them back to the correct dump site, including recycling bins.

“We really hope to raise a lot of money to make a difference in our rivers,” said Peterson. “We hope that the work we put in this year makes a difference to the communities Living Lands and Waters plans to help.”

Charity Week Events APRIL 22-PAINT THE WINDOWS Pay $5-$20 to show your school spirit and paint the windows of the school.

APRIL 26-TAPPED Pay $3 to watch and Earth Week film during 4th block.

To get your permissionslip, go to room 207.

MAY 6-MINUTE TO WIN IT Compete to accomplish challenges in under one minute.

MAY 8-DODGEBALL Get your team together and compete to be the winner of this years dodgeball tournament at 7 p.m.

MAY 10-VARIETY SHOW Come Watch the talent of West High in the auditorium and 7 p.m. Admission $5.

Silent auction.

MAY 13-STAFF VS STUDENT BASKETBALL Come watch some seniors play the staff in a basketball game during 4th block.

MAY 13-PIE/PENNY THROW Pay to throw a pie or pennies at your favorite or least favorite teachers.

All proceeds go to this year’s charity, Living Lands and Waters for water clean up.

4 BEAK ‘N’ EYE ● APRIL 12, 2013

PAGE BY BECCA SANDRY

Gay marriage equality up to Supreme Court

BY CATHERINE GOODALL goodall.catherine07@gmail.com

T

he talk of the nation has been about gay marriage after the Supreme Court held a hearing for the issue about two weeks ago.

On March 26, 2013, Supreme Court officials began a historic 80-minute oral argument discussing the marriage equality case of Hollingsworth vs. Perry.

Hearings of the case will determine whether or not the state of California’s Proposition 8, which bans same-sex marriages, will be able to continue.

Making some people have some very strong opinions and voices about the issue.

“If two people love one another, let them be together, no matter if they are the same gender,” Said junior Ally Walters.

“I think if you’re gay, be gay. Do what you want, because it’s your life and you should do what makes you happy,” said junior Tony Olson.

“I’m not against gay marriage and the gay community having equal rights,” said junior Zack Huntley. “I strongly don’t believe that people living a gay lifestyle should be able to be a part of the church.”

“Everybody has the right to their own opinion,” said teacher Michelle Pearce.

Demonstrators gather as arguments are heard on California’s Proposition 8 concerning gay marriage, outside the U.S. Supreme Court in Washington, D.C., Tuesday, March 26, 2013. (Molly Riley/MCT)

“Instead of having it state of state, it needs to be within home of home. If you choose not to have anything to do with the homosexual community, you as a family make that choice. Don’t make it a state, nation, or worldly choice.”

On March 28, the Obama Administration filed a brief in the case, stating that Proposition 8 should be struck down because it should be the states’ decision on whether or not they will allow same-sex marriages.

Also, the Obama Administration stated that they believed Proposition 8 is unconstitutional towards the 14th Amendment, which grants equality to all citizens no matter what race, sex, religion, or creed.

A verdict is expected in June. Currentley, only nine states as well as three Native American tribes and the District of Columbia allow samesex marriages and/or recognize same-sex marriages equally.

The court decision will be one of the biggest decisions in history as it effects several people across the United States, gay or not.

Ranger Visit

BY BECCA SANDRY Becca.sandry3@gmail.com

Ranger Steve instructs Kim Strunk’s Environmental Studies class about different park events and what it is like being a ranger. (photo by Corralle Whalen)

Ranger Steve paid a visit to Kim Strunk’s Enviormental Studies class on March 22 to discuss the imprtance of nature.

He informed students of the various things it takes to become a ranger and what things occur during the different seasons at the park.

The winter season is one of the busiest seasons for any ranger. Steve assists other staff with eagle watches and related special events along with presenting Environmental Ed programs. He also presents those programs in the other three seasons.

Sports, recreations and park management professionals are needed to meet recreation demands resulting from expanding populations.

“I think it would be kind of hard to become a ranger, but it would be fun,” said senior Christian Lizano.

PAGE BY BECCA SANDRY

Senior Andrew Ratliff spreads his wings for the class as Ranger Steve tells some interesting facts about eagles and their natural habitat in the local parks. (photo by Corralle Whalen) APRIL 12, 2013 ● BEAK ‘N’ EYE 5

NEWS

Why is prom so exciting for you?

When: April 27, 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Where: Mississippi Valley Fairgrounds After Prom will be held in the school after the dance from 10 p.m. until 2:30 a.m.

After Prom will provide a fun, alcohol free environment for fun and prizes for students who did and did not attend Prom.

“

I’m excited for prom because I get to spend some special time with my boyfriend and other good friends. It’s just a night of fun. I’m totally looking forward to it.”

-Chelsey Davis, junior

“

I was such a tomboy growing up. It was exciting to get all dressed up and see my friends all fancy with their crazy hairdos.”

-Tammy Burton,

World Language teacher

“

I’m excited to wear a tuxedo and going out to dinner with friends. It is out of the ordinary; you get to do things you don’t do everyday.”

-Evan Felix, senior

Frequent tanning causes damage

BY BECCA SANDRY Becca.sandry3@gmail.com

P

rom season is here and many West students are starting to prepare.

Whether they are buying the perfect dress or preparing to win some prizes at After Prom, students are getting things ready for the dance.

To look their best is a must, but some girls go to the extreme to look their best by having that golden tan, unknowing of the repercussions of it.

Tanning can lead to skin cancer of various forms, one being the deadliest form, melanoma.

According to Mayoclinic.com melanoma is caused when something goes awry in the melanocytes. Melanocytes are the cells in which skin’s melanin, or skin color, is produced.

Some students who tan do not think of how tanning is going to affect their bodies

in the long run.

“I only tan about ten times before a dance,” said junior Abby Thumann. “I really don’t think skin cancer will ever happen to me.”

Tanning is strongly discouraged by dermatologist.

Dr. Scott Miller of Tarrant Dermatology Consultants said there is no such thing as a safe tan. However, he said while there are a lot of tanning salons, there is also just as much information about the risks associated with it.

According to http://www.curemelanoma.org/, indoor tanning increases melanoma by 75 percent..

Melanoma is the fastest growing cancer world wide, according to MRF.org. It is most commonly developed in ages 25-29.

Although ages 15-29 are the second most common ages for the cancer to develop, melanoma is still a serious cancer.

Although most would think that women

would be more susceptible to the caner because of tanning and high sunexposures that is not the case. Melanoma can strike men and women of all ages, races, and all skin types.

With all cancers and disease there is always prevention.

To prevent melanoma you should always wear sunscreen when going outside.

It’s important to make sunscreen a daily habit 365 days of the year. UV radiation can still damage skin even in the winter and on cloudy days.

Also, if you have fair skin, red or blonde hair and light eyes, a history of sunburn or UV exposure, or a family history of melanoma, you could be at higher risk for skin cancer. Talk to your dermatologist or health care provider about the benefits of regular skin examinations.

To get more involved or to learn more about melanoma research and prevention, visit MRF.org

The ABCDE’s of melanoma

(Change in moles is a typical sign of melanoma) Look for the ABCDE’s of melanoma in your moles. If you see one or more, make an appointment with a dermatologist.

Asymmetrical Shape Border Melanoma lesions are Non-cancerous moles typically irregular, or not usually have smooth, symmetrical, in shape. even borders. Melanoma Benign moles are lesions usually have usually symmetrical. iregular borders that are difficult to define.

Color The presence of more than one color (blue, black, brown, tan,) or the uneven distribution of color can be a sign.

Diameter Melanoma lesions are often greater than 6 milli-meters in diameter; about the size of a pencil eraser.

6 BEAK ‘N’ EYE ● APRIL 12, 2013

Evolution If a mole has gone through recent changes in color and or size, get it checked out by a dermatologist immediately.

PAGE BY BECCA SANDRY

Students experience new cultures around the world

BY CATHERINE GOODALL goodall.catherine07@gmail.com

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everal students, chaperones, and teachers marked Wednesday, March 20, on their calendars not only for spring break, but for a trip to explore Spain or to explore France.

Several students involved in the Spanish and French language classes at West, traveled to Spain and France to experience their cultures of study.

The students on the trip left March 20 for 10 days of touring the countries many attractions, beaches, food, and lifestyle. Many students enjoyed the trip and had lots of positive comments about it.

“My favorite place in Spain was Madrid,” said junior Allie Mengler. “It was beautiful and everything about it was awesome.”

Other student that went on the trip expressed their highlights of their experience over seas.

“The beaches we went to the last couple of days on the trip were my favorite. I got to go with my best friends and it was a good experience to learn and compare the difference in the cultures,” said junior Sammie Koberg “The different restaurants we went to were interesting because it was a completely new atmosphere,” said junior Austin Barton.

The students, chaperones, and teachers came back the next Friday happy they took the opportunity to go on the trip.

“I’d definitely recommend going,” said Koberg. “When you go there and come back you learn a lot from each culture and it’s a lot of fun.”

Junior Maddy Zemba and two friends jump in front of the Eiffel Tower over spring break. (contributed photo) PAGE BY BECCA SANDRY

APRIL 12, 2013 ● BEAK ‘N’ EYE 7

Hiding packs of cigarettes won’t stop teen smoking

VOICE

I

Art by Emma DeMarr

OUR VIEW

Gay marriage should be legal

T

he Supreme Court heard arguments this month and is considering over turning a state’s ban against same sex marriage. We hope the court stops this discrimination against gays. We believe that everyone deserves to find love. Who people love and want to marry should be their decision, not anyone else’s.

Thirty-eight states have banned gay marriage in the past. Opponents argue that altering the traditional definition of marriage between a man and a woman is wrong. Just because the traditional marriage is between a man and a woman doesn’t mean that a marriage between the same-sex is wrong. There are many people who don’t do things the traditional way.

People also say that gay marriage shouldn’t be allowed because we need to protect the institution of marriage. We think this argument is ridiculous because love isn’t the only reason why people get married. People get married for money, health insurance, and sexual companionship but no one accuses those people of threatening the institution of marriage.

Another reason people are against gay marriage is because of children. Some say that the “ideal” situation for children to be

raised is with a mother and a father. That isn’t reality though. It’s crazy to think that some people think it would be more beneficial to be raised in an abusive home over a home with a gay couple.

The main reason we think gay marriage should be legal is because it isn’t anyone’s business what goes on in a relationship.

Gay marriage doesn’t affect anyone but the two in the relationship so why does it matter? This nation was founded on the idea that all men were created equally. We are all equal no matter who we choose to love.

Another reason people are against gay marriage is because the Bible or their religion says it’s wrong. The Bible also condemns divorce, getting married after divorce, tattoos, and abortion but those things aren’t illegal. The Bible never says that a man cannot marry a man and if they were allowed to, whom would it hurt?

People should have a choice on who they want to marry. They deserve freedom along with everyone else. Being gay or bisexual isn’t a choice; it’s just how they are. Heterosexuals don’t choose to be heterosexual, they just are. No one should be treated unequal or discriminated against for how they feel or who they love.

8 BEAK ‘N’ EYE ● APRIL 12, 2013

n New York City, Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg wants to ban open displays of cigarettes and tobacco in stores. He hopes that keeping cigarettes out of sight could help young people from starting a bad habit, but in reality we think teens who choose to smoke will do it whether it’s visible or not.

Cigarette and tobacco displays are not the reason why young people smoke.

Making it so stores have to have the drugs in a shelf or closed area so that teens cannot see it will not affect their choices because there are still people who smoke in public everyday. Young people will still be influenced by the media, their peers, and even their elders.

One of the major reasons young people smoke is because of the people around them and the pressure of trying to fit in with others. People who smoke legally will still be able to purchase tobacco so younger people will still see the products outside of the store. We believe that banning teens from seeing tobacco completely is close to impossible.

Putting the tobacco away in stores will also not stop teens from smoking.

They can steal from their elders or ask an older friend to buy them.

Teens are motivated by peers, movies and advertising to try smoking. Keeping the packs hidden is a wasted effort.

Letter policy

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.

Readers are encouraged to submit letters about issues that concern them to Room 161.

Letters should be 300 words or less.

They should be signed and include your cell phone number. We reserve the right to edit the letters for length.

PAGE BY EMILY THUMANN

Senior likes to cook

FACES

BY DESARAY MCGEE desaraymcgee@gmail.com

With a spinning ridgehand, sophomore Kaleigh Rhodes breaks a board held by her instructor Brain Wagner at the Clinton Tournament on Oct. 23, 2011. Rhodes will try for her third degree black belt in Tae Kwon Do in June. (contributed photo)

Student learns martial way

W

hen sophomore Kaleigh Rhodes sees a fight at school, she has the urge to break it up. She probably could because she has a second-degree black belt in Tae Kwon Do. However, she waits for security to handle the fight.

“I don’t think it’s right,” she explained.

“I hate fighting, but I love martial arts. It keeps me in shape. It helps you feel more confident about yourself.”

Rhodes has Sponge Bob to thank for sparking her interest in the martial arts.

When she was 8 she saw an episode where they were on Karate Island. “I thought that was really cool and I asked my Mom if I could study it.” Her mom took her to Evolution Martial Arts in Bettendorf.

By the time she was in eighth grade, she earned her second-degree black belt. That required knowing a sequence of forms, breaking boards with a variety of punches and kicks, and knowing the philosophy of her martial art.

She also competes in various tournaments around the state. Her favorite event is forms competition, where she often wins her age category and scores high in grand

champion category. She also competes in board breaking and in sparing.

Her instructors, Brian Wagner and Cory Jess, have been very supportive, she said.

“I call Master Wagner my Dad. He’s always helped me with kicks and everything.

He’s always there to cheer me up when things go wrong.”

Things did go wrong last October while she was practicing a spinning kick in the studio. As she landed, she fell back on her ankle and injured it. After three days of pain, she wondered if it were more than a sprain, and it turned about to be broken.

While on the sidelines, she helped coach the other students. She got the cast off two weeks ago. “I’m slowly starting to get back into it,” she said.

She believes the tenets of Tae Kwon Do, such as perseverance, self-control and indomitable spirit, have helped her outside of the kartae studio.

“I’m more caring, and I have more respect for people than I used to.”

She hopes to get back to vigorous training soon in order to try out for her third degree black belt in June.

PAGE BY DESARAY MCGEE

Michael Ramsey is a senior at West High School who loves to cook. He likes to cook many different types of food but his main ones are Mexican food, and desserts. He cooks many different kinds of sweets.

Ramsey is a very experienced cook.

Since he has been going to West High school he has taken a couple of different cooking classes. He has taken Foods, Advanced Foods, International Foods and Hospitality Management. He also watched many family members and friends in the kitchen to get where he is at now.

Ramsey was first inspired to cook when he was with his grandmother, who used to cook different kinds of foods.

Ramsey also learned a big portion of his cooking skills from his grandmother.

For Ramsey the hardest thing about cooking is “controlling the heat.” Ramsey added, “No matter what it is, the first time cooking something I always end up burning it because I don’t know the right temperature.”

Ramsey has some accomplishments involving cooking, but one unique one would have to be when he was a little younger he attended a pie-eating contest.

He won first place. The type of pie that he won with was blueberry.

Although Ramsey could be many things when he gets older, he wants to be a chef. In fact one of Ramsey’s dreams for when he gets a little older is to own his own restaurant.

Michael Ramsey, hopes to own his own restaurant some day.

APRIL 12, 2013 ● BEAK ‘N’ EYE 9

REVIEWS

MOVIE The Call

Jordan (Hallie Barry) is a 911 operator who receives a call from a girl name Leah Templeton (Evie Thompson), who is being attacked by a serial killer. As Jordan stays on the line, she hears the killer Michael Foster( Michael Eklund) kill Leah. She tries to tell him not to do it. All he ends up saying is “Too late. It’s already done” and he hangs up.

Several days later, the police find Leah’s body buried in the ground. Six months later, another 911 operator receives a call but from a different girl. Her name is Casey Welson (Abigail Breslin).

Michael is at it again, and this time throws Casey in the back of his car from a public mall. What Michael doesn’t know is Casey has a phone she has been using to contact 911. As they are trying to tract down where Casey is, during the entire process anyone who is getting into Michaels’ way becomes his target. He tells Casey that it’s all her fault for him killing them because she shouldn’t be acting up, and should go along with him.

The movie’s strength is that you can’t guess what is really going to happen next, and it keeps you on the edge of your seat. Also, the actors play their roles with the emotion and enthusiasm.

There’s a couple scary scenes but not too many.

It’s more of a thriller than anything.

TV SHOWS

MOVIE

MUSIC

Duck Dynasty

The Croods

Don’t You Worry Child

Dreamworks present The Croods as an animated adventurous comedy with Nicolas Cage and Emma Stone. It’s set in prehistoric setting, and fantastical animals.

They’re cavemen who stay low so no one sees them or finds them but when one of the daughters decide to do opposite and go out of the caves she finds things she didn’t think were possible. Filled with tons of humor and makes you laugh!

This pop song by Swedish electronic dance group Swedish House Mafia starts off with piano background music and adds music and lyrics a little later. It’s pretty catchy as you listen and just flows through the whole song.

This reality TV show on A&E shows the lives of the Robertson family who became wealthy from a family-owned business that makes duck calls. The sons Jase, Willie, and Jep are all known for their long flowing beards. The three sons go around doing what they feel like doing and don’t have anything to worry about. They have their own land, and do their own thing. Most of what they do is hysterical, and makes you laugh a lot!

BY CORRALLE WHALEN 10 BEAK ‘N’ EYE ● APRIL 12, 2013

Thrift Shop

This rap song by Seattle based American rapper Macklemore and producer Ryan Lewis is a good song because it’s catchy, with a melody that gets stuck in your head. This song explains how people could buy clothing from actual thrift shop stores and how the clothing was actually only 99 cents.

PAGE BY CORRALLE WHALEN

Everyone’s Shaking

Khaki Thusday group gathers in the gym to participate in the largest Khaki Shake video shot at West.

West students contribute to the viral sensation ‘The Harlem Shake’

BY CORRALLE WHALEN

T

he Harlem Shake has been a very popular video that people put on all over the web. It’s so popular that it has even come to West High School, with the Robotics, Journalistic Writing class, Welding, and The Khaki Thursday group all posting a video of their own. With over 4,000 postings a day over different ways for the dance, there’s been over 1.21 billion views for the Harlem Shake.

The Harlem Shake is a comedy dance where one person starts dancing and all the others act like they are doing work. When the music stops, everyone gets into different costumes or certain things. When the music plays again, everyone starts doing random things and make the video look funny.

There’s tons of people that love the Harlem Shake. Casey Gaylord, junior, not only produced their Khaki Thursday Harlem Shake video on Feb 21, but also started as the first dancer. It has over 2,500 views on it. “I like the Harlem Shake because it was a lot of fun and it made people laugh. I believe that’s the importance in life is laughter. The outcome was fantastic, and everyone thought it was fun-

ny.”

You can find this video on YouTube if you type in “Khaki Thursdays Harlem Shake.”

Kris Burney, senior, shot the Civil Engineering and Architecture group robotics Harlem Shake and put it together on Feb 14th.

“I can’t say that being a producer is hard because it’s not. If anything, it’s really fun. I got to boss people around and even tell them where to go. They couldn’t argue with me and they all had to do whatever I said. The shooting wasn’t difficult at all either. All I really needed was 30 seconds of each portion and the rest is up to the video editor and what they wanted to put in. I think anyone who wants to put together a video definitely should!”

The Harlem Shake was originally called the Albee. It’s a dance that is named

after a Harlem resident named Al B. It was originated in the 1980’s in Harlem, New York.

The dance is based off of an East African dance called the Eskista. Since then, it’s been spread to other places and named different things. Today we know it as the Harlem Shake. Al B said an easy way of explaining the dance is “a drunken shake.”

The Harlem Shake is also commonly associated with the “Chicken Noodle Soup” dance as well.

How to make a Harlem Shake video • Get the Harlem Shake Video Creator app • Get a whole bunch of people and props • Start the music, and have one person start dancing for about 30 seconds • Pause music and have everyone get into the circle area • Turn the music back on and start dancing crazily for about another 30 seconds • Post it to YouTube

UPCOMING APRIL 13 National Poetry Month Celebration 1-2:30 p.m. Rock Island Public Library APRIL19-20 Chicago 7:30 a.m. Galvin Fine Arts Center $12 per person APRIL 20 Cinderella Ballet 2:00 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Adler Theatre $15-33.00 APRIL 21 Circus 2:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.

Mississippi Valley Fairgrounds

PAGE BY CORRALLE WHALEN

APRIL 12, 2013 ● BEAK ‘N’ EYE 11

FOCUS

Sexual Assault The problem may devastate a victim’s life long after the attack

By Ashley VanWinkle

A

report from Ohio has brought the issue of sexual assault to the eyes of many Americans. Two high school football players were accused, and then judged guilty last month, for raping a classmate at a party. The young girl was too drunk to remember the situation, but after other classmates had taken videos and photographs of the situation, the two males were sentenced to prison.

People wondered though, why did no one report it as it was happening? Why did no one stop it? It is thought that people may be overlooking the seriousness of this underreported crime.

Being sexually assaulted is much more than just a bad memory; it is also something that makes life an almost chore-like activity that becomes incredibly difficult to partake in.

One out of four females will be sexually assaulted at least once in their lifetime and one out of six males that will encounter the same issue.

About 44 percent of sexual assault victims are under the age of 18, and 80 percent of sexual assault victims are under 30.

Sexual assault can be anything from sexual harassment to forms of rape and molestation.

“Sexual harassment is actually a form of sexual assault,” Becky Moreno Bell, Family Resources rape and sexual assault program supervisor said, “That is a social issue. Society chooses to ignore the importance and doesn’t choose to do anything about it.”

Whether one is experiencing sexual harassment or other forms of sexual assault, it can bring the same side effects.

When one is sexually assaulted, some

12 BEAK ‘N’ EYE ● APRIL 12, 2013

PAGE BY Ashley VanWinkle

mental illnesses that may occur are any forms of depression, anxiety, and post traumatic stress. Where some people can handle the symptoms, others cannot; this is where bad choices are made physically, harming both yourself and society.

“If we were to eliminate sexual assault, we could partially eliminate some of the most well known problems in society,” Bell said.

Drug abuse, alcoholism, violence, homelessness, teen pregnancy and other societal problems are very common activities for victims after the assault. This is why getting help is very important and relatively easy as well.

If the assault is recent, it is strongly recommended that the victim go to the hospital immediately. At the hospital they will treat you with the appropriate medications, treat injuries and offer a sexual assault kit that will help track DNA. In many cases, victims know who the assaulter was.

After you have been treated, Family Resources will be contacted, if requested. They will then supply you with what is necessary after leaving the hospital to keep healthy both mentally and physically.

Not everyone goes to receive help right away though. That doesn’t mean that options are not available though. If you call the crisis line for Family Resources, the same programs will be offered and available to help you deal with the issue.

“Getting help is incredibly important when it comes to avoiding major side affects,” Bell said. “Some people can handle it, but not everyone can. It makes it so much easier to have someone by your side along the way.”

Each year, there are about

207,754 victims of sexual assault

PAGE BY Ashley VanWInkle

Christian introduces his story to his video viewers on Facebook.

Former West High student shares story of sexual assault

BY ASHLEY VANWINKLE

H

i, I’m Chris.” The card is flashed for everyone on his Facebook friends list to see. He sets it down as he picks up the next piece to his video, “This is my story.”

Christian, a former West High student, shared a brief story over Facebook about how he was sexually assaulted. But there was more to Christian’s story than the video shared.

At only 14, as his mother and father were together somewhere in the house, and Christian was relaxing in his room, Christian said his uncle entered and molested him. His uncle was a brother to 14, and a man that the family truly admired, someone they never assumed would do such a thing.

After hearing Christian’s father coming toward the room, his uncle fled the scene, leaving Christian feeling that he was in a position he would never be able to escape.

After waiting a few hours, Christian texted his best friend and she picked him up to talk about the situation. After talking for awhile, “We went to my house and told my mom and dad,” Christian said. “My dad denied it right away, but my mom started crying and held me, telling me it was going to be okay.”

His father was not the only member of the family who chose not to believe Christian’s story; the whole family denied it.

“My uncle still denies it,” Christian said. “He says it never happened, but I just ask him how he couldn’t remember. He was drunk and coked out.”

Without the support of anyone but his mother, things for Christian became difficult. Eventually his grandmother from Texas came to take Christian and his mother home with her.

“My parents divorced after that,” he said. “My dad said that I was the reason.”

Living with that guilt and the weight of the assault it began to get the best of Christian. He was unable to be around other males without feeling suspicious; he became very antisocial and suspicious.

Things had changed in Christian’s life immensely, and after seeing his mother depressed and feeling guilty from the divorce and the molestation, he decided he no longer wanted to live.

“I tried committing suicide several times,” he said. “I tried to drown myself, I cut myself, I tried to hang myself and I had thoughts of driving a car into the river.”

After the attempts didn’t work because of outside sources interrupting, Christian remembered something important. “My mom, my mom is my everything.”

After two weeks in a mental institution; then being diagnosed with depression and anxiety problems, after several attempts at suicide, and after a years worth of counseling he found the strength to move forward.

“I got tired of being a no one, and tired of seeing my mom so sad. I decided to move on with my life,” he said. “Honestly, it’s such a wonderful feeling.”

Christian isn’t the only one who has moved on though. “My uncle moved to Mexico and married,” he said.

Christian, 18 now, is having a much easier time moving forward. He is planning to soon join the Air Force and head to college afterward to become a counselor or probation officer, helping troubled kids.

“It may seem horrible; it may seem to be the most traumatic thing in life; never resort to self-harm, that will get you nowhere,” Christian said. “You’re not the first, you’re not the last, but you will be that someone that can say, ‘I got through and I will stay strong.’ Take that first step into 1,000 miles, because we all have to start somewhere. We are all beautiful people; we should rememAPRIL 12, 2013 ● BEAK ‘N’ EYE 13

FEATURE

7 ways to prevent sexual assaults Be aware of your drink: Leaving an opened drink, or accepting one from strangers, is always a danger that should be avoided. When having a dirnk, keep your hand over the top, and only accept if from a reliable source.

Drugging drinks is very common.

Avoid isolated areas and situations: Avoid going places on foot without anyone else by your side, especially if you are unaware or unfirmilar with the place.

Keep at least one ear open: Walking with music is a really nice way to enjoy and preoccupy yourself, especially during a long walk; but it’s important to keep at least one ear earbud free so you can be aware of your surrounding as well. Anyone can sneak up out of nowhere unexpectably.

Walk with a purpose: It is important to walk with a purpose, showing everyone around you that you know where you are headed, even if you dont. This proves to others that you are confident and people know you are coming.

Carry a cell phone: As much as some people may choose to look at cellular devices as unneeded utilities, but they are actually more important than we think. Carrying a cellphone can help save you in an unexpected situation. It is always a good idea to have a cellphone on you just in case.

The importance of friends: When going out, it is important to go out in a group of friends.

This way, you can look out for them and vice versa. If you expect that someone has been drugged, call 911 immediately.

Trust your instincts: Just like on a test, it is better to trust your instincts/ More than likely your first instinct can be what saves you. It’s better safe than sorry.

14 BEAK ‘N’ EYE ● APRIL 12, 2013

April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month Day Of Action

April 2: All day event -Show gratitude for supporting an end to sexual violence

Yoga Against Rape April 6: 12:30 - 1:30 p.m. at the Indigo Wellness Studio in Moline.

• $10 Suggested dontaion to support counsling and trauma therepy.

RSA Open House

April 17: 3:30 - 6:30 p.m.

1521 47 Ave. (Near Southpark Mall) • Meet staff and learn about program services.

Proclamation

April 22: 11:30 a.m.

• Quad Cities Courthouse • National Crime Victim Rights Week proclamation hosted to support rape and violece victims.

Take Back The Night

April 25: 5 - 7:30 p.m.-Schwiebert Park, Rock Island, IL. • Rally to end sex violence • Listen to survivors, childrens activities, food, education information and fun.

• If rain, Take Back the Night will be held at the Rock Island High School field house.

PAGE BY ASHLEY VANWINKLE

SPORTS

Meet Jessica Ralfs Girls soccer player Jessica Ralfs looks to make this year one of her best by helping the team win

BY TYLER MASTERSON masterson2554@gmail.com

Jessica Ralfs has been playing soccer for 13 years. (photo by Tyler Masterson)

Last year the soccer team counted on Jessica Ralfs when she got the only three goals in one game, also a called a hat trick, in route to beating Clinton 3-0.

Ralfs has been playing soccer for 13 years now and is going to add to that this year as she plays forward for West. Ralfs said the best part of soccer is scoring a goal because that’s how you win and your team counts on you to score.

Ralfs said she likes playing soccer so much because you get a rush when you make a food play or score a goal. She also said that soccer is “exciting,” but is hard because of the long distance running.

Ralfs has many strengths, but her biggest are speed and her shooting skills. She can out run the defenders and she has a strong kick and can aim it. Ralfs said that she is better at offense because she has been playing it her whole life. Last year she scored four goals during the season, showing her offensive skills are strong.

To prepare for a game, Ralfs drinks a lot of water to stay hydrated and said she has to get in the right “mind set” for the game.

“We have a young team this year, so we are going to work hard and hope things go our way,” Ralfs said. “I want to help my team succeed and score some goals.”

Meet Kris Burney Boys varsity soccer captain Kris Burney uses his playing experience to help the team

BY MALIK SALSBERRY salsberrym1@gmail.com Senior Kristopher Burney made all state academic honorable mention his freshman year and is now playing varsity boys soccer his senior year.

Burney started to participate in soccer around the time he was in second grade.

Around that time he became infatuated with the sport and pursued it throughout his life.

“I believe that my strongest trait is my aggressive hustle on the field,” said Burney.

Burney also added that his strengths fall with his defending skills, his speed and agility as he plays center defender position.

Burney said that the positive attitude he brings every day and his leadership are some of his strengths.

However, he continues to work on his ball handling skills. As he works on perfecting his own skills, Burney said that the team overall can improve on communication on the field and their overall endurance.

Burney wants to beat North High and Pleasant Valley because of their reputations as strong teams.

“In the past they have been strong teams,” said Burney, “and we believe this will be a strong team for us.”

To make sure Burney reaches his goal and betters the varsity team, Burney plans to “practice my hardest at practice, work outside of practice and running on my own.”

Burney handles the ball at a variety of fields, but his favorite is Burlington’s stadium because it has a bowl and it’s a great area to play in.

Burney offers this piece of advice to those that want to be a defender in soccer. “In order to stop the opponent offenders, one has to be fast, aggresice, and slightly selfless to get the ball out of their possession.”

PAGE BY CODY GEURTSEN

Senior Kristopher Burney plays during a soccer game last year. (contributed photo)

APRIL 12, 2013 ● BEAK ‘N’ EYE 15

SPORTS

Girls tennis’ Libby Burken To prepare for a match Burken makes sure she doesn’t get nervous because if she gets nervous she messes up, so “You have to stay calm,” Burken said.

The hardest thing about tennis is the Burken started playing tennis her inner game, according to junior freshman year because her Libby Burken. friend was playing. She “The mental part is Girls continues to play beso important because cause she likes it a lot if you get mad it Tennis Preview and is good at it. can ruin the whole Other notable varsity players are “This is my third match. Tennis is year playing but all strategy. You Than Nguyn, Sam Napier feels like my first can hit the ball since we have and Tessa Daily. back and forth a better coach for hours, but Girls next meet is at West tennis courts that helps me to beat your opimprove,” Burken ponent you need against Pleasant Valley 4 p.m. April 16 said. to have a strategy The team is coached by Sean EckBurken enjoys tenand be mentally nis so much because tough.” hardt and Coach Romer. she likes improving Last year Libby and she likes helping the won two doubles matchyounger kids learn to play. “We es and two singles matches have a lot of girls out for tennis this and looks to improve on that this year. and a strong varsity,” said Burken. year.

BY TYLER MASTERSON masterson2554@gmail.com

Junior Libby Burken works on her backhands during practice. (photo

by Tyler Masterson)

Junior leads tennis squad Ryan Hayes looks to lead the tennis team this year, and hopes the team will do better than last year Hayes said he enjoys tennis so much because it is laid back and everyone on the team is friendly. It may be laid back, but is not at all easy.

Leading the varsity tennis “You have to be quick team this year at No. 1 one Boys Tennis and ready to hit the ball is junior Ryan Hayes, back, or you could who just started to Preview be left standing play only four years Other notable team leaders are there with the ball ago. already by you,” Hayes has Tuan Tran, Garret Anderson and Troy said Hayes. many strengths Gipple.

Hayes decided he said, his bigto go to a tennis gest strengths are Next meet is at Pleasant Valley on Tuescamp for fun and his serves and day, April 16th at 4 p.m. to try it out and forehands because has loved it since. he has practiced The team is coached by Curtis After the camp he them the most. continued to practice Williams The hardest by coming to West thing about tennis is over the summer and it incidentally what he is paid off. best at; returning serves. He “It’s going to be tough this says they are so hard to return season because we have a young team because some serves can be as fast as 80 this year, but I am hopeful,” Hayes said. mph.

BY TYLER MASTERSON masterson2554@gmail.com

16 BEAK ‘N’ EYE ● APRIL 12, 2013

Junior Ryan Hayes is at practice and working on his forehands. (photo by Tyler Masterson) PAGE BY TYLER MASTERSON

Boys track’s Rane Nichols A look at Rane Nichols running strategies, his goals for this year, and how he plans to achieve them this season minutes 36 seconds and run the 3200 in 9 minutes 56 seconds. He’s also placed second in the mile. Even though he Boys has done really well running ane Nichols has run the longer events, Nichols’ track since sixth Track Preview favorite event is still the grade. He started Other notable team members 400 because its short running because his distance. Nichols says older brother influare AJ Ortega, Matt Kronfield, and his strength would be enced him to. aggressiveness. His Tiquan Malone.

During track goals for this year season, the boys go The boys’ next meet is at Clinton Gatewould be to work many places like on his times, go to Platteville, Iowa way Classic on April 16.

Drake, and make it to State, UNI, BurlThe team is coached by Marty Leal state. ington, Clinton, and Nichols said he will lots of other places in and Dave Broadie. achieve these goals by Iowa. Nichols’ favorite putting in practice and hard place to run is at home at work. “I never give up, even Brady Street Stadium. when I want to.”

Nichols can run the 1600 in 4

BY KATIE MAZZAROLLO k.mazzarollo@gmail.com

R

Running a track lifestyle

Junior Kaytlin Crouse talks about how she prepares for track season and how she plans to improve this season it comes to running is she always pushes herself and others, even when it hurts the most. She says she needs to work on making sure she works just as hard outside of unior Kaytlin Crouse is a practice. runner for West’s track Girls

To team. Crouse has prepare for track, Crouse also participated in track Track Preview participates in cross country. since seventh grade.

Other notable team memShe also makes sure she She started playing trains hard, stays healthy, because all of her bers are Tayler Osborne and and focuses on running. friends did it and Lexy Devlin.

Her eventually she goals and the team’s goals started to really The girls’ next meet will be the Linnare to go to state. enjoy it.

Mar Invitational on April 16.

Many Crouse says her of the track meets are held favorite event is the The team is coached by in Illinois, Wisconsin, and 4x4 relay. “It’s the Arron Reitz. most high schools in Iowa. last race. Everyone’s Crouse says she loves running at on the field cheering for the UNI dome but also loves runyou and it’s pretty intense.” ning at Brady Street Stadium.

Crouse says her strength when

BY KATIE MAZZAROLLO k.mazzarollo@gmail.com

J

PAGE BY KATIE MAZZAROLLO

APRIL 12, 2013 ● BEAK ‘N’ EYE 17

SPORTS

Girl bowlers place third in state

BY KATIE MAZZAROLLO k.mazzarollo@gmail.com

Over spring break, the girls bowling team placed third in state on March 12 in Des Moines, Iowa.

The team came together in the state tournament by bowling four games of 200 or more and they all cheered each other on.

Sophomore Lindsey Entsminger led the Falcons by taking seventh in the individual standing. Entsminger said she contributed to their success by scoring a 243 and a 203 while striking and picking up multiple spares. Entsminger ended with a total score 446 in a two-game series.

Sophomore Anna Hedges was 13th with a total score of 431 and senior Hallie Lucero was 20th with a 403.

The girls say they plan on working hard to go to state again, but to get there; they need to practice their spares and consistently finding their strike mark so they

The West girls bowling team poses for their team picture. (photo by yearbook)

Golfer hits the fairway strong

by Malik Salsberry salsberrym1@gamail.com At the start of her sophomore year, junior Allie Mengler got a birdie on a course that her and her team had trouble with.

Mengler began to participate in West girls golf her freshman year because her good friend Morgan Ripperger told her it would be a fun experience.

Since her freshman year, Mengler has been working on her strengths in the fairway and weaknesses on the green.

“I feel that playing on the fairway is my strongest point,” said Mengler, “but I can improve a lot on my putting skills.”

Mengler’s farthest drive was 172 yards.

Mengler looks back on her worst hole to look for improvement. “During a meet on one hole I got a 10 on a par 3!” said Mengler.

Her season long goal this year is to improve her overall scores from last season. Mengler believes “that focusing and a lot of practice will help me reach my goals for this season.”

While improving on her own skills, Mengler found that the young team this

year can work on form and on their putting.

Mengler plays at a variety of courses from Devils Gleen to Duck Creek, but her overall favorite is Hidden Hills golf course in Bettendorf, Iowa because “it is very well kept and maintained through out our season.”

18 BEAK ‘N’ EYE ● APRIL 12, 2013

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MARCH

Wrestling dropped from Olympics IOC executive board takes out wrestling from the 2020 Olympics on 39-point criteria

BY MALIK SALSBERRY salsberrym1@gmail.com

W

restling is a sport that has been in the Olympics since its founding roots in the original ancient Greek Olympics, and made its first official appearance in the 1896 Athens for the modern Olympic Games. However, the International Olympic Committee decided to drop wrestling from the 2020 Olympics on Feb. 12 by an executive decision from the committee board.

With USA Wrestling and former Olympic gold medalists Dan Gabel and Cael Sanderson working to get wrestling back in the Olympics, students also rally to support the cause.

“I think it is the worst decision I’ve ever heard,” said junior Jorge Caldera, “it is the only reason why I turn on my TV during the Olympics.

“I don’t like it.” said sophomore Travis Pulse. “I feel that they should keep wrestling in since it was one of the first sports there.”

Wrestling will not be included in the 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janiero, Brazil. Students hope that it will be reinstated in the 2020 Olympics.

Olympic gold medalist Jordan Burroughs of the “I don’t think the decision will USA and Francisco Daniel Soler Tanco of Peru stay,” said junior Zach Blizzard, “by 2020, it will be back.” While wreswrestle in the men’s 74kg final in during the tling is now voted out, the decision 2012 Olympic Games in London, England. (contributed photo by blogs.courierpostonline.com) can have a detrimental impact on

Olympic hopefuls’ dreams.

“They are probably not happy about the decision,” said Blizzard, “because that takes away their chance to go to the Olympics.”

Some of these students have dreams to go and participate in the Olympics themselves. “I feel that with practice and dedication, I can make it to the Olympics,” said Pulse.

The International Olympic Committee executive board made the decision to drop wrestling by evaluating all 25 core sports by a 39 criteria including tradition, popularity and finance. Other sports besides wrestling were on the chopping block, including the modern pentathlon, badminton and equestrian.

The vice president of the modern pentathlons governing body is on the board. However, no representatives from the U.S. Olympics or USA wrestling are on the board. Jim Litke pointed out that even though wrestling “generates twice the TV audience worldwide” than the modern pentathlon, and was a sold out event during the 2012 London Games.

Questions were also surronding the head of the 2020 evaluation committee, Sir Craig Reedie, a former doubles champion in the sport if he had anything to do with the sports inclusion in the 2020 Olympics.

Sports fighting for their spot back in the Olympics

These eight sports, now joined by wrestling, are the sports that are vying to get back into the modern summer olympic games:

1. Baseball 2. Softball 3. Karate 4. Roller sports 5. Sport climbing 6. Squash 7. Wakeboarding 8. Wushu PAGE BY MALIK SALSBERRY

APRIL 12, 2013 ● BEAK ‘N’ EYE 20

Wrestling dropped from Olympics IOC executive board takes out wrestling from the 2020 Olympics on 39-point criteria

BY MALIK SALSBERRY salsberrym1@gmail.com

W

restling is a sport that has been in the Olympics since its founding roots in the original ancient Greek Olympics, and made its first official appearance in the 1896 Athens for the modern Olympic Games. However, the International Olympic Committee decided to drop wrestling from the 2020 Olympics on Feb. 12 by an executive decision from the committee board.

With USA Wrestling and former Olympic gold medalists Dan Gabel and Cael Sanderson working to get wrestling back in the Olympics, students also rally to support the cause.

“I think it is the worst decision I’ve ever heard,” said junior Jorge Caldera, “it is the only reason why I turn on my TV during the Olympics.

“I don’t like it.” said sophomore Travis Pulse. “I feel that they should keep wrestling in since it was one of the first sports there.”

Wrestling will not be included in the 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janiero, Brazil. Students hope that it will be reinstated in the 2020 Olympics.

Olympic gold medalist Jordan Burroughs of the “I don’t think the decision will USA and Francisco Daniel Soler Tanco of Peru stay,” said junior Zach Blizzard, “by 2020, it will be back.” While wreswrestle in the men’s 74kg final in during the tling is now voted out, the decision 2012 Olympic Games in London, England. (contributed photo by blogs.courierpostonline.com) can have a detrimental impact on

Olympic hopefuls’ dreams.

“They are probably not happy about the decision,” said Blizzard, “because that takes away their chance to go to the Olympics.”

Some of these students have dreams to go and participate in the Olympics themselves. “I feel that with practice and dedication, I can make it to the Olympics,” said Pulse.

The International Olympic Committee executive board made the decision to drop wrestling by evaluating all 25 core sports by a 39 criteria including tradition, popularity and finance. Other sports besides wrestling were on the chopping block, including the modern pentathlon, badminton and equestrian.

The vice president of the modern pentathlons governing body is on the board. However, no representatives from the U.S. Olympics or USA wrestling are on the board. Jim Litke pointed out that even though wrestling “generates twice the TV audience worldwide” than the modern pentathlon, and was a sold out event during the 2012 London Games.

Questions were also surronding the head of the 2020 evaluation committee, Sir Craig Reedie, a former doubles champion in the sport if he had anything to do with the sports inclusion in the 2020 Olympics.

Sports fighting for their spot back in the Olympics

These eight sports, now joined by wrestling, are the sports that are vying to get back into the modern summer olympic games:

1. Baseball 2. Softball 3. Karate 4. Roller sports 5. Sport climbing 6. Squash 7. Wakeboarding 8. Wushu PAGE BY MALIK SALSBERRY

APRIL 12, 2013 ● BEAK ‘N’ EYE 20