The Borah
Senator
Volume 51 Issue V April 13, 2011 6001 Cassia St. Boise, ID 83709 borahsenator.com
How to ask your date to prom Page 11
Read about special effects in “Moon Over Buffalo” Page 12
See photos from AP Enviro’s trip to plant native foliage Page 19
“My freshman year in high school, my first girlfriend left me for a woman.” Page 10
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The Borah Senator April 13, 2011 Letters to the Editor Senator Staff Chorus instructor
Editor in Chief: Megan Mizuta Associate Editor: Kristin Bracewell Tech Support: Jessica Powell, Troy Robinson Print Photo Editor: Katie Helm Assistant: Ali Clapier Staff Photographers: Kristin Bracewell, Ali Clapier, Korey Combs, Katie Helm, Jamie Jones, Megan Mizuta, Ashley Rice Text Editors: Megan Harrigfeld, Megan Mizuta, Samantha Nelson Advertising Manager: Kristin Bracewell Assistant: Brittni Hanrahan Page Editors Front Cover: Megan Mizuta Letters to the Editor: Ali Clapier Artist Bio: Ali Clapier News: Megan Mizuta Opinion: Samantha Nelson Life: Jamie Jones, Ari Anchustegui Spread: Megan Harrigfeld A&E: Justin Kirkham, Haylie Pelton Q&A: Kristin Bracewell People: Samantha Whittaker Sports: Brandie Cichy, Sage Unsworth JV Sports: Savannah Harrelson Photo Essay: Megan Mizuta Fun & Games: Adam Thompson Illustrators: Lisa Garrard, Chris Lawson Staff Writers: Matthew Bergman, Matthew Bray, Mechelle Conner, Lisa Garrard, Brittni Hanrahan, Logan Nye Web Editor: Grace Gibney Web Photo Editor: Ashley Rice Videographers: Nic Schweitzer, Zack Thomas Intern Writers: Mitch Bergman, Jacob Horton, Roxanne Lewers, Nikki Martin, Ryan Personette Adviser: Michelle Harmon
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR How to send a letter to the Senator: 1. Go to borahsenator.com 2. Under “Pages” click “Submit letters” 3. Fill out the given form * Be sure to stick to the character limit
OR:
1. Type and print a letter 2. Add printed name and signature 3. Bring the letter to room 501
Let the people’s voices be heard! The Borah Senator accepts all letters of school appropriate subjects. The Borah Senator does not accept anonymous letters.
finds lost “birdie” To whom it may concern:
Printed in the March edition of the Borah Senator was an article entitled “Singers say Hi Hi Birdie to classic.” In the article it stated that five students from Borah are involved, but alas, one was missed. There are SIX! Senior Mikah Chapman is also spending countless hours at rehearsal and tons of time at home working on his music as a chorus member in “Bye Bye Birdie.” Mikah is a very accomplished musician and is one of Borah’s finest. He is a member of the Borah Symphonic Orchestra, Tactus, the men’s Varsity Choir and CDVE, the Varsity Chamber Choir. Mikah works very hard at all that he does and I was sad to see that his name was missed in the article! Sincerely, Heather Prinzing Music Department Chair Choral Music
National Scholastic Press Association
-- Letter received March 10, 2011
The Borah Senator
Artist Bio
April 13, 2011
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Mulitmedia artist’s work is ‘very bold’
Photo by Katie Helm
Cover artist Cassie King, senior, traces her artwork with an Exacto knife. By Samantha Whittaker
For cover artist and senior Cassie King, art has always been a hobby. However, King said she really began to get involved with her creative side in seventh grade, continuing with the awareness and practice throughout high school.
King was described by art teacher Jen Compton as a quiet, introverted person whose work is very bold. A self described multimedia artist, King uses materials ranging from graphite to paint to projects containing three dimensional elements. King said she looks to art magazines and the world around her for inspiration, and relies on music to set the atmosphere. “It has to mean something to me for me to make something out of it,” she said. “It’s just a way for me to express how I’m feeling.” King has done pieces for her friends. However, her art hasn’t been professionally published yet. In the future, King would like to study both art and physiology, and pursue either an art minor or a career in art therapy. “She has the potential to go wherever she wants,” Compton said. “If she chooses art as a vehicle to take her forward, she will definitely be successful.”
More work by Cassie King
News
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The Borah Senator
Grant gives $32K for AP tests
By Megan Mizuta
Number of subsidized AP tests:
120
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orah students saved at least $8,880 on AP tests thanks to a grant funded by the Jeker Foundation and anonymous donors. The grant, which is in its second year, provided 120 tests at a reduced cost of $13, rather than the standard $87. Forty-four students applied for the grant, all of whom received at least partial coverage, according to AP test coordinator and Career Counselor Kathi Lecertua. The grant first became available last year, and provided $32,000 for AP tests this year, and $20,000 last year, according to Jennifer Henderson, executive director for the Boise Schools Foundation. The grant was “very successful last year,” said Henderson. All of the $32,000 was used, said Hen-
395 AP tests without the grant 515 AP tests total students registered for derson. The funds are allotted among Boise high schools -- Borah, Boise, Capital, and Timberline -- although Henderson declined to give the exact amount each school received. According to Lecertua, Borah received money for 13 extra AP tests because it
Senator’s Choice: By Savannah Harrelson
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he ninth annual Senator’s Choice assembly, which recognizes students for their achievements, will be held mid-morning April 29. To become a Senator’s Choice recipient, students meet a standard of excellence. Every year around February, teachers nominate students that they believe are worthy of the award. Positive attributes for excelling in academics, music, arts, athletics, and the community are qualities teachers consider. Students are nominated based on qualities that include dedication, responsibility, honesty, leadership, kindness, and empowerment. Math teacher Bill Donaldson said that he nominates students who work hard and help other students around
had “a little bit more need.” The grant is separate from the AP Test Fee Reduction Grant offered by State Board of Education for low income students, which offers AP test waivers to those who qualify for free and reduced lunch. To qualify for the Jeker grant, students had to write a justification for why they needed the funds, which ranged from “layoffs, to single parents, to major medical expenses,” according to Lecertua. Henderson said the grant money was intended for “low to moderate income students who need assistance paying for the [AP] exam.” Lecertua said she expects the grant to continue next year, and said “in these economic times, someone is being very generous.” She also predicted that the grant amount would not decrease next year, and said that she would be surprised if the amount was reduced.
300 nominated for award, 30 to be honored on April 29
them. He also added that the best part about Senator’s Choice for him is, “it is an excellent opportunity to recognize the students that usually aren’t.” Vice Principal Bill McKitrick agreed with this and added, “You don’t necessarily have to have a 4.0 to get the award.” The nominees are awarded with a certificate and a specially wrapped Senator’s Choice candy bar. This year, about 300 students have been nominated. The top 10 students based on the nominations in each grade receive the Senator’s Choice Award, as well as a blanket. Because the award is so prestigious, students may win only once in their high school careers, although they may be nominated every year. During the assembly, McKitrick explained, clubs, athletics, WEB scholars, and Rotary scholars will be recognized.
Principal Bonita Hammer said, “It’s basically a big celebration of Borah.” All feeder schools into Borah are given the date of the event and welcomed to attend. This includes administrators from West, South, and elementary schools as well as the Board of Trustees, superintendents, and any one else that takes apart in Borah. Junior Braden Corpus, who won a Senator’s Choice Award his sophomore year said that he felt surprised, and added, “It felt good to know that I was kind of representing Borah.” When explaining the standards of Senator’s Choice, McKitrick said, “The criteria is broad, like Borah.” This tradition came into existence in honor of Senator William E. Borah, who was labeled the “lion of the senate,” and who later became the foundation and inspiration for Borah High.
April 13, 2011
International Dinner offers chance to sample global cuisine The annual International Dinner is being held by the Spanish National Honor Society (SNHS) April 29 from 6:30-8 p.m. in the Cafeteria. The cost for admission is either $4 or a prepared plate of “international” food. The club’s president, senior Tyler Albretsen, said the goal of the dinner is to “unite all the clubs and give everyone the opportunity to come together as one.” Senior Andrew Stoddard, a member of SNHS, said it was an “event where all of the language clubs come up with their own ethnic dishes and we share them.” This dinner is a feast to increase cultural awareness and unity. Every language club participates and brings different kinds of food. Albretsen said that it gives everyone the chance to “interact with each other and experience the different worlds and food.” Borah chess club fails to place at annual tournament Borah did not place first or second in the annual chess club tournament held at Riverglen Junior High March 19. Boise High School took first place. Sophomores Austin Carter and Houston Bentley and senior Blake Harshman stayed the entire tournament. Mike Healy, math teacher and chess club supervisor said, “I was kind of disappointed,” and explained that some of the best players were unable to attend because of scheduling conflicts. Carter said, “I think we just need to practice more.” In the novice tournament earlier in the year, the chess team placed second overall. Healy commented that the sophomores that attended this tournament showed great skill, and that they will become stronger players as they mature.
The Borah Senator April 13, 2011
Relay for Life
Community, students raise funds for cancer research By Megan Harrigfeld
W
ith almost 12 million reported cancer cases nationally, people are taking action to find a cure and celebrate those who have survived. At Borah, students are running to do the same. This July, Key Club will run, walk, and jog at Bishop Kelly with thousands of others for Relay For Life—a nationwide fundraiser for the American Cancer Society. This overnight, 18-hour event involves hundreds of teams, and Key Club has been involved for at least three years. Key Club President Jessica Brown, senior, is happy the organization is participating in this fundraising event again. “It’s a huge community event,” said Brown. “It’s really nice to see a whole community join together to find a cure for cancer.” At the event, many activities take place, but the relay is the main event, lasting the entire 18-hour stretch. At all times, one person from the team must be on the track to symbolize that “cancer never sleeps.” A lantern ceremony symbolizes loved ones that have died of cancer, and a “survivors’ lap” recognizes survivors of cancer at the event.
Senior Kelsey Nelson remembers this as one of the most emotional activities to watch. “It’s really great to see kids as young as three years old and adults running together during the survivors’ lap,” she said. “I didn’t know it would be as moving as it was,” said Nelson. “It’s really powerful.” Nelson has been Key Club’s representative and team captain for the fundraiser, and has been attending meetings about the event all year. The fundraising for the actual day, July 8-9, takes
As a sort of “farewell to seniors,” according to Key Club adviser Kylie Christensen, she hopes that a lot of people show up to support the cause as well as the 2011 graduates. Christensen attended Relay For Life when she was in a sorority at the University of Idaho, and is excited that she can still be involved, saying that “you bond with the people that are there,” adding that it gives perspective to the participants. “You see all of these people who have survived, and it really gives you a slap in the face,” said Christensen. “If anything, these are the people who have really suffered.” Food at the event is no problem for the participants, because it is catered. Senior Breanna Leatham participated last year, when a National Honor Society team was formed, although didn’t really prosper being that only a couple people who signed up actually showed up. Leatham is now a committee member and youth chair adviser for Relay For Life. This year, Leatham teamed with Mountain View students along with senior Katie Helm. “It really helps you connect better with your friends,” said Leatham. “At around 3 a.m., you want to give up and go home, but a cancer patient can’t go home—they can’t quit treatment.”
“At around 3 a.m., you want to give up and go home, but a cancer patient can’t go home— they can’t quit treatment.” --Breanna Leatham, senior place all year and even at the event where teams can sell goods and merchandise to participants and supporters. Although Key Club has yet to raise as much money as hoped thus far, more events are yet to come. Already, they have organized a penny drive, sold coffee at Dutch Bros., and even raffled off a parking space at registration before the school year started. Other options for them have been serving lunch at RC Willey. The group’s big project, however, is to raise their goal of $2,000 May 28 at a pancake feed at Applebee’s.
News
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Language learners tour future location
Photo by Ashley Rice
Libby Perry, senior, gives a tour to Boise Language Academy students. By Logan Nye
Sixty eager students from the Boise Language Academy (BLA) were warmly welcomed to Borah as an effort to familiarize them with their future school. Tour guides from both Samantha Mora’s senior English 102 and Stefan deVries’s sophomore English classes directed BLA students through a scavenger hunt while also showing them the most important destinations in the school. Guides volunteered their lunch time to show not only the students the layout of the school, but also “how comfortable and homey [Borah] is,” noted tour guide Doaa Mahdi, sophomore. The guests were bashful and reserved upon arrival but began to loosen up
throughout the day. BLA student Jeeva Dhungana’s first impression was “Good, we like to come here. People are so interested to have us.” He actively asked questions and seemed to look upon the school as a massive and prosperous institution. BLA students couldn’t have been more grateful to experience the school. “We wondered what we would do on the first day,” said Dhungana. “You helped us.” The brief tour acquainted the new students with what they called the “huge school” in comparison to their current facility. Boise Language Academy, housed in the former Jackson elementary school, has 260 students and will be combining with Borah next year.
Opinion
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Senator Staff Opinion The Senator staff shares its opinion on current events.
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Film veteran Elizabeth Taylor dies at age 79.
Charlie Sheen is fired from sitcom “Two and a Half Men.”
“American Idiot,” a Broadway production based on Green Day’s album of the same name, announces its first tour.
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Japan’s recent earthquake is deemed worst in country’s history.
Happy
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Indifferent
April 13, 2011
Firearms on college campus merely open doors for danger Staff Editorial
On April 16, 2007, 33 people were gunned down in a dorm and classroom at Virginia Tech. On August 16, 1991, 16 people were killed and 33 wounded when a gunman opened fire for 96 minutes from the observation deck of the towers of the University of Austin, Texas. And Idaho wants to give individuals the right to carry open and concealed weapons on college campuses. The Idaho House of Representatives voted 11-8 March 10 to allow students and faculty to carry concealed and open firearms on campus, but the bill did not pass the Senate. This bill would have allowed individuals to carry their weapons anywhere but the undergraduate halls. Economics teacher and former CIA Intelligence Officer Ralph Bild stated, “I am vehemently opposed to concealed and open weapons on campus. I believe that more people with access to weapons equals more lethal use of firearms.” Speaking from his experience and training as a former CIA operative, he said, “Even in the hands of well meaning, trained individuals, guns are a dangerous thing. People don’t always know when the safety is off, and can often shoot themselves or others.” Jerry Graves, a history teacher here and at South Junior High, and a person who has a concealed
weapons permit, stated, “It’s a misplaced law.” He continued, “Most people who have a concealed weapons permit haven’t had the training to use their weapons under stress. Police officers are trained to put the bullet where it needs to be in extreme situations.” Graves also said that he used to bring his shotgun to Borah when he attended in the late 60s and early 70s because, “there was no law against it, and I’d go hunting after school.” He said that there was enough security on campuses now that allowing individuals to carry concealed weapons on campus would cause more harm than good. Graves said concealed weapons do have a place in society. “My wife and I used to own an antiques shop,” Graves said, leaning back thoughtfully in his chair. “There was a woman who had been beaten, raped, robbed, her car was set on fire, and she was basically left for dead. We [Graves and his wife] decided it would be a good idea to get concealed weapons permits.” Individuals have the right to carry their weapons; that is assured to citizens by the Second Amendment, but individuals who are not trained in the use of their weapons in high stress situations, such as the Columbine or Virginia Tech shootings, have no business bringing their weapons onto a college campus. Illustration by Chris Lawson
Elton John performs at the Taco Bell Arena.
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The Borah Senator
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The Borah Senator
Opinion
April 13, 2011
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Gay Straight Alliance provides insight for everyone, regardless of sexuality By Sam Nelson
“GSA is a place where we can learn from each other, a support system for every member, where we can all be ourselves and truly know that we’re not alone,” said senior Alejandra Ayon of Borah’s Gay Straight Alliance. Diversity clubs and GSAs exist across the country, although they’re not called by the same names or even include the same activities. One thing they all have in common, however, is that their goal is not to gather every gay teenager they can, but to form a safe place for those who are supportive or curious. “People think that, to be in it, you have to be gay or lesbian or whatever, and that’s not true,” Ayon said. According to her, many members of GSA feel as if the majority of the school’s population have the wrong idea about the club.
In fact, that thought process only contributes to the general opinion that Gay Straight Alliances are trying to cure: the misconception that gay, lesbian and transgender students are so different from the
“People think that, to be in it, you have to be gay or lesbian or whatever, and that’s not true.” -- Alejandra Ayon, senior average student that they need a special club to accommodate them. In reality, the main goal of GSA members is to integrate the idea of gay students with straight ones. “Just because you come to the meetings, doesn’t
mean you’ll be labeled as gay,” said GSA member Marisol Cervantes, junior. “It’s a gay straight alliance. A lot of people don’t even look at the word straight. Our allies are our greatest asset.” GSA member and senior Jeremy Hines feels that false information is a primary factor in misconceptions regarding the GSA. “They’re worried that people are going to think something about them just for being a part of the club. It’s unfortunate.” Another of the club’s goals is to educate the public, in the hopes that more information will open their minds, and possibly change them. Hines mentioned that the GSA is a place where all of its members can learn from one another and provide a support system. “It’s not necessarily a gay club.” “Give it a try,” Ayon said. “Don’t immediately criticize and make judgements. It can open so many doors for you, and being in GSA changed my life.”
Conscience Bill sparks political controversy By Megan Harrigfeld
With a legislature that outnumbers Democrats 4:1, it’s no wonder why legislation in favor of women’s health choices doesn’t get passed. Yet again, a bill to make slight revisions to the Conscience Bill, SB 1353, passed last legislative session, was shut down before it was even printed. The original bill doesn’t have clout for many reasons, and took a stab at many health issues, but the one that has pro-choice constituents shaking in their boots is the clause that states that a pharmacist can refuse to dispense abortifacient drugs, lumping in emergency contraception. Science is on the Democrats’ side in this regard because emergency contraception doesn’t kill an embryo or fetus; it simply stops ovulation and implantation. If a woman is already pregnant, the drug does not work. “A woman should be able to access family planning tools no matter the pharmacist’s moral objection,” said College of Idaho health-science professor Burke Hays. “It’s not a pharmacist’s job to play referee between doctor and patient.” When the bill passed in 2010, Planned Parent-
hood immediately put on its repeal suit, approaching Representative Phylis King to alter some definitions in the bill, including changing “abortifacient” to “any drug that causes an abortion” as defined in 18-604, Idaho Code.
(AARP) also immediately opposed the move, focusing on the end-of-life care aspect of the bill. This clause states that end-of-life options can be refused. “It’s literally their end of life right,” said AARP media representative David Irwin. “This is a refusal to honor a legal document.” In 2010 when the bill was presented, AARP alerted members, and thousands contacted their legislators. Although revisions have been presented, only small changes have been made that don’t seem to help the accountability issue with the AARP. “[The revisions] don’t pass the smell-test on our end,” said Irwin. “That bill doesn’t fix it. Proposed amendments would have fixed it, but those have been ignored.”According to Irwin, 65 percent of voters are 50 and above, making the conscience bill rather important to legislators who want to keep their jobs in the coming elections. Considering the number of health issues in this bill, very few groups seem to be happy with it. The real question is how far pharmacists will take this right to refuse. With revisions being shut down right and left, the only way for things to change is to see new, progressive faces in Idaho’s legislature.
“A woman should be able to access family planning tools no matter the pharmacist’s moral objection.” -- Burke Hays, health-science professor This change should seem logical in anyone’s eyes, since pharmacists don’t dispense abortion causing medication; that kind of drug or procedure is provided by a doctor on site. Taking aim at just the fiscal issue alone should give Republicans a reason to care. An unplanned pregnancy costs the state more money than a planned pregnancy. “If you support families, revisions to the bill will be better for the economy,” said King. The bill also takes aim at stem cell research, and the right to refuse involvement with cloning--which is already illegal under federal code. The American Association of Retired Persons
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Life
The Borah Senator
April 13, 2011
Photo by Kristin Bracewell
Junior Vu Tran and sophomores Anthony Rangel, Cristian Castanos, Iram Perez, and Luan Vo complete the KiKzity dance crew.
Dance crew conquers talent showcase By Kristin Bracewell
The KiKzity dance crew made its debut performance at the Borah High Talent Show March 18. They shared their hidden talents and energized the crowd with a contemporary style of break dancing. The showcase event was the first time many heard about the previously unfamiliar dance team, and the performance piqued interest in the group’s act. For more on KiKzity’s success,visit borahsenator.com
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The Borah Senator
April 13, 2011
Life
9
River rats collect booty for summer trip
By Jamie Jones
From dusting, sweeping and spring cleaning, to working the concession stand at basketball games, building bat houses and painting the Track & Field office door, the participants of this summer’s river rafting trip have been steadily at work. All year they’ve been raising funds for their days along the South fork of the Salmon River this July. This is the fourth year Rose and his campers have been involved with Wild Science Explorers; a non-profit program in McCall, created by a Timberline teacher who began by simply having science labs on a boat with students. “Pack-in, pack-out” is the slogan Art teacher Pat Rose is continually reminding his students is the focus of the trip. Students on the three- to six-day trip camp on the river bank overnight, pack everything up each morning, and float down river with professional tour guides during the day, leaving no trace of themselves. “I’m kind of excited to wear a sun hat, but I’m scared
Photo by Katie Helm
Junior Hannah Peters (left) along with seniors Juleen and Janelle Philips (right) carefully craft bat houses.
about not having a toilet,” said junior Hannah Peters. Peters expressed that not everyone attending the trip is fundraising, some have the approximately $400 already paid. “As far as the fundraising goes, we’ve made a lot of progress.”
sponsors. “And the students have decided if someone decides they do not want to go, their part of the money will be put in a scholarship fund for next year’s participants,” Rose explained. Art students and seniors Juleen and Janelle Philips have agreed to paint track and field coach Jeremy Dov-
“Every time you’re on the river, you learn something new about yourself.” -- Pat Rose, art teacher The proceeds from cleaning, bird house building and the concessions have been kept at school. They have also written letters to outdoor companies, such as REI for donations and
el’s office door with the help from their fellow rafters. They also will be decorating the sides of the box car that is displayed every time Borah hosts a track meet. “It is a great cause and I’m happy to help them out,” Dovel said. “It’s good that I get my track stuff done and it’s also good because it gives them an opportunity to raise money for their trip.” Along with their teachers, friends and professional rafting guides, participants from the Boys & Girls Club will also be joining the trip. They’ll be split into groups and assigned chores to help stick to their “Pack-in, packout” slogan. They will also be working on other projects while there, such as trail maintenance and weeding of noxious plant species. “I’m looking forward to being away from electronics and just being with the wilderness,” Rose expressed. “Every time you’re on the river, you learn something new about yourself. You also learn something new about nature. I’m really excited for this trip.”
Solution to traffic problems requires drivers to do the right thing By Sage Unsworth
While exiting the school parking lot, one passes a sign “Right Turn Only”. One of two things happens next: either the individual obeys the sign’s message, or disregards it and turns left. What punishment, if any, lies within the choice of turning left, going against the written rule? There isn’t one from the Boise Police Department, the
sign lies out of its jurisdiction. “The sign is on private property,” said School Resource Officer Steve Kincheloe. “BPD is unable to enforce its content.” The school administration can enforce this rule with conventional school punishments, but a traffic violation cannot be awarded. The purpose for these signs is to cut down the time it takes vehicles to leave the parking lot after school.
“All routes require the buses to turn right onto Cassia,” said Principal Bonita Hammer. After the buses finish their Borah routes, they have an elementary route. The sooner they leave Borah, the better the chances are they get to their elementary school on time. She also added, “It diverts traffic to main roads.” Kincheloe has a plan that he
said he believes would solve this problem. “Build a curb down the center of Cassia in front of the exit near the tennis courts, this would keep traffic from turning left.” Photo by Kristin Bracewell An easier way to A car takes an “illegal” left. solve the problem, however, is to comply with vice. “Good drivers without school regulations. Borah blemishes on their records, students should follow Vice such as myself, always follow Principal Kelly Fossceco’s ad- the rules.”
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Volume 48 Issue I NOVEMBER 12,
Prim and Proper
10 The Borah Senator
$4,700 cost for An Enchanted Evening By Brandie Cichy
As the end of the year approaches, so does the April 30 Prom: either a high school student’s dream or nightmare. However, what actually goes into Prom? How is Prom put together and what is the work that goes behind it? “A lot of people think we just sit around and do nothing, but there’s actually a lot that goes into preparing for Prom,” said Junior Class President Erica Albertson. “We have to get up at eight the morning of and go over to decorate.” Student Council reserved the location, The Boise Train Depot, and disc jockey ahead of time. As well as ordering royalties which include the crowns for Prom king and queen, Student Council, who is in charge of Prom, hand-make the invitations. “Prom is a high school tradition and an American tradition at that,” stated Albertson.Usually Student Council also decorates for Prom, but Albertson
shared that this year a decorator has been hired. Prom is the biggest money maker of all the Borah student events, and it is also the biggest spender. This year,
Infographic by Adam Thompson
Prom costs about $5,000, according to Albertson. Whatever money was made at Prom last year is spent on this year’s Prom. “It is about one-fourth of what Mountain View High School spends on their own Prom. We don’t spend nearly as much as other high schools,” commented Albertson. Student Council also sponsors and arranges Prom Expo, an opportunity for local vendors to come to Borah at lunch and showcase their businesses. “The Prom Expo gives students a taste of what’s out there in a wide variety,” stated junior Rachel De Voe. With the Prom Expo, Student Council is given a massive list that is split up among members so they can call or email the companies. Prom Expo is April 15 during lunch in the gym. “To me, Prom is a celebration ending the school year. Students are ready for change,” De Voe commented. “For seniors, it seems almost monumental.”
Baby don’t hurt me... or my boutonniere Sticky situation? Think By Sam Nelson
Rejection isn’t a big deal... unless you happen to be a teenager. Perhaps the worst kind of rejection is the inevitable rejection of a crush. You work up all the courage you’ve got inside you and pour it all out for him or her, but at that crucial moment of truth, all hope is lost. According to psychology teacher Manny Varela, the emotions associated with rejection are much more complicated than one might think. “How a person actually feels after rejection has to do with their temperament,” he said. “An optimistic person will look at rejection as a bump in the road. They will know that tomorrow will be a better day. A pessimist will think that the world is after them and feel like they may be alone forever.” Junior Joe Czykoski said he is no stranger to denial. “Everyone gets rejected,” he said. “My freshman year in high
school, my first girlfriend left me for a woman. The worst part is, she broke up with me through a note and stuffed it in my pocket. Rejection now is kind of nothing compared to that.” Being turned down by a prospective prom date may seem positively terrible, but it is an entirely survivable situation, if handled with care. One must take the utmost precaution in both method and backup when considering who to ask. If you’ve dedicated your entire high school life to one person, who still doesn’t know the nature of your affections, the choice of which individual to ask is obvious. If not, the market is vast. If you’re looking simply for a casual date, choose someone who has a respectable track record regarding relationships, as well as a history of kindness. You don’t want to be shot down by somebody who would shout expletives at you.It may be that this potential date is
in fact someone you’ve been dating on for some time, and this makes the situation more complicated. It’s important that you not hang all your hopes on one person; take care of yourself and your own feelings first. Becky Woodland, Borah’s social worker, feels that dating is so important to teens because they feel that it is a large component of themselves. “Teens are still learning self-identity, and figuring themselves out. They’re finding their values and morals as well as exploring relationships. I think they also want to feel some kind of companionship, to know they’re not alone.” A prom date denial is certainly a let down, but Czykoski said he feels that bouncing back from that momentary despair is very important. “Just remember that no matter what you get rejected for, there are always more opportunities.”
outside the box for prom
By Grace Gibney
It’s time for the special occasion filled with dancing, fun, and lasting memories. But the tricky part is finding an ideal date and popping the question. Here are some tips for finding and asking the perfect Photo courtesy of Shailee Asher date: knows? The floor is open, just as long as you get to know your Be sure to pick someodate outside the classroom. ne you already know Your date may not be the perWho wants to go to Prom son you thought you were takwith someone unfamiliar? It is ing to Prom, however, better to better to go with a friend you find out sooner than later. laugh and have a great time with than someone you decid- Ask creatively ed to ask last minute that you Brainstorm a couple crehardly know. ative ideas to pop the question, such as wearing a shirt with the Get to know your date fur- question written in permanent ther. marker. If you can’t come up Try to find out some of with a unique idea, Google their interests, such as “what’s never fails, but creativity will your favorite color” or “who always get you bonus points is your favorite band.” Who with your date.
Preps for Prom
Volume 51 Issue V April 13, 2011 11
Over the years, prom evolves from formal to festive
By Jamie Jones
Photo by Jamie Jones
Juniors Savannah Tjaden and Gabrielle Baker checked out the rental prom dresses at Cinderella’s Closet, trying on about six dresses each.
Does the glass slipper fit?
The Assistance League’s dress-rental service, Cinderella’s Closet, offers Prom attire in affordable fashion
Since the Assistance League is a nonprofit organization, each worker is a volunteer eager to be there. AccordBright dresses, ill-fitting tuxedos, ing to the Assistance League website, and loss of a fortune may all be one reeach volunteer is a “Fairy Godmother,” members from the ritual that is meant keeping in the “Cinderella” to be marked as a memorable night spirit. Each shopper “leaves the in an adolescent’s life. Prom costs range from dinner “A dad was waiting out in the car, boutique feeling special and and transportation to the physical came in to see his daughter and ready for [his or her] event.” Douglas has been involved tickets, small potatoes compared to started to cry, that makes it all in Cinderella’s Closet committhe actual apparel for the night. tee for two years, and can recall Dresses can run the buyer $1,000 worth it.” of warmth experiencfor a single item of clothing worn --Donna Douglas, Assistance aingfeeling the light of a prom-goer’s only for one night. But here in Boise, eyes after she picks out the teens from the valley can rejoice in League Volunteer perfect dress. “A dad was waitknowing that a dress can cost absoing out in the car, came in to lutely nothing. see his daughter and started to The Assistance League of Boicry,” recalled Douglas. “That makes it se saw a need for affordable prom dressThe thrift boutique has more than es for the less-than-Rockefeller students 150 dresses this year, and is eager to all worth it.” When looking through dusty closof Ada County. see them all rented. In addition to the In 2006, they started a boutique dresses and tuxedos, Cinderella’s Closet ets, think about taking old dresses into named “Cinderella’s Closet” that is also has shoes, jewelry, and other ac- Cinderella’s Closet for a tax deductopen during peak dress season, home- cessories. Volunteer Donna Douglas ible donation. From now until prom coming and prom. Students can rent described the dresses as “beautiful” and night, Cinderella’s Closet will be open dresses, and now even tuxedos, with the insists that the dresses in the rental bou- to Treasure Valley students after school simple flash of a student ID card and tique are “some of the most gorgeous hours Wednesdays, Fridays, and on Saturdays. $10. That fee will be reimbursed if the in the valley.” By Megan Harrigfeld
dress is brought back in the same condition. Otherwise, the $10 deposit will be used for cleaning, which they normally receive for free from a cleaning service.
From poodle skirts and cherry Hudson Hornet’s to chic gowns and stretch limos, the concept of Prom has evolved over the years. The first Proms were created by middle-class parents as replications of the wealthy, grand debutante balls and since then have grown into an American adolescent tradition for all social classes. Retired history teacher Harold Brizee said prom has changed dramatically over the decades. Brizee expressed that Prom was a big deal to him and his friends, but since 1955, when he attended his senior prom, the rules, regulations and traditions have taken a steep turn. “Prom was designed more for romance,” he said. “You went with your boyfriend or girlfriend, the idea of a friend asking another friend wasn’t common. You also could get by with only spending $5 for the whole night.” Corsages were worn on the lady’s dress, and not on her wrist unless her and her date weren’t very acquainted. “The father usually gave the rules while the mother put the corsage on the date. And there weren’t any limos, we fixed up our own rides,” he said Social studies teacher Amy Everson said, “I grew up in Hick-Town, Idaho. But even to us, Prom was a big deal.” Everson and her high school friends spent the whole day camping and having picnics, then getting ready together for the big night. “We shopped for our dresses two days before and we didn’t have limos. We went with close friends, not huge groups like the kids do today,” said Everson Senior Kellie Rye explains that she’s excited for her senior dance. “To me, Prom is a time to get all dressed up, look absolutely great and go all out!”
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A&E
The Borah Senator
April 13, 2011
Perseverance demonstrates benefits
Sophomore orchestra student selected to perform and compete in state festival By Justin Kirkham
B
acked by hours of rehearsal during class and on their own time, orchestra students participated in a solo and ensemble festival. Having spent much time ironing out kinks and perfecting difficult measures, the students were eager to perform in groups and on their own for judges. Students received their music one to two weeks prior to the festival. “Everyone was pretty much well prepared,” explained junior Crystal Coe, a violinist in both symphonic and chamber orchestra. Students were required to learn a song for the festival, but actually playing for the judges was optional. Before performing for judges, these student musicians played their pieces for classmates. Senior Cliff Anderson, violist, found this performance to be especially difficult because it was his first time performing his solo for peers.
Students were given a score from one to five based on their performance quality, a one being superior. “Personally, I think I did pretty well, but I could have done better,” said sophomore Christie Echols, who received a one on her bass solo. She was selected from all other bass soloists who performed at the district festival to compete in the state festival. Echols was the only student from Borah to try out for this opportunity through her district performance. The majority of orchestra students participated in the district festival. “About 95 percent of the class decided to go,” explained Echols. “A lot more people that went to the festival performed solos,” said Coe, who also received a one for her performance. “It was stressful, but it’s experience.” Anderson played the “Adagio 2nd Movement”
Students prepare for new drama Upcoming comedy performance includes mock gun By Ari Anchustegui
The plot is about George and Charlotte dvanced Theatre Hay, the last famous students arrange themVaudeville couple who selves enthusiastically perform a play in Buffor a performance they falo, New York. What have yet to endure. makes this fictional The play “Moon Over couple unique is that Buffalo” is in preparathey are the last actors tion to premiere early to perform genuine, May. repertory theatre. With progress, it beKendall Tookey, comes more impressive who plays the characevery sixth period sester Paul, is the secret sion when the group lover of the couple’s rehearses. kin, a young woman Photo by Katie Helm named Roz. Tookey Although each student is well trained Junior Sloan Rodriguez rehearses with a stage gun for the stated, “I really like this performance of the theater program’s latest production. in this particular area play. It’s funny but even of expertise, each play is taken under wing very more fun to perform.” carefully. The play consists of affairs, secret lovers, a hard Rumors have mingled that this specific play of hearing grandmother, and even some danger. contains special effects. However, Gerald Hensley, One of the props is a gun, a false one of course, but drama teacher and director, simply laughed at this a gun nonetheless. and said, “the special effects don’t make the play,” “There’s profanity in the play,” said Hensley, considering there are hardly any effects at all. “It’s “especially when George gets drunk.” the comedy that makes it.” The play will run from May 5 to May 7.
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by Franz Anton Hoffmeister. “It wasn’t as good as when I was practicing,” explained Anderson. His solo contained an extended improvisational section that tripped him up in parts. Despite that fact, Anderson received a two on his performance. Coe plans to incorporate her orchestral talents into her future career. “Maybe to be a teacher,” she stated. “That would be awesome.” Echols, who is involved in three orchestra groups, aims to become a professional musician. Her performance at the festival has given her added experience to reach this goal. After devoting an hour to practicing her song each day since December, Echols concluded that “hard work really pays off and that nobody is able to be perfect every time.” Anderson too wants to continue using his viola skills in student ensembles at college. “I’ve played for seven years, and there’s no reason to stop,” he explained.
Thriller keeps viewers on edge of their seats By Haylie Pelton
Boarding the train to Chicago, many are
just making their normal daily routines. Then an explosion occurs. The bomber has made it clear this is just the beginning of a series of more attacks to the city. This is the basic plot line behind “Source Code,” a film that made its debut April 1. Actor Jake Gyllenhaal, who plays Captain Colter Stevens, participates in a mission dealing with a machine called the Source Code. The Source Code acts as a gateway to information from the past. To find out who the bomber is, Stevens relives the last eight minutes before the explosion. To do so, the captain takes the form of one of the passengers on the train, character Sean Fentress. Fentress is on board the train with Christina Warren, played by actress Michelle Monaghan. When Stevens goes back in time, he interacts with her. Through multiple attempts at trying to identify the bomber, Stevens falls for Christina and believes that he can save her as well as the other passengers on the train. With the Source Code, Stevens believes that he can create an alternate reality in which the bombing never occurs.
The Borah Senator
April 13, 2011
Retired musicians renew their fervor in Mulligan band By Megan Harrigfeld
As musicians leave Borah, a venue for music could not be easier to find. With retired Borah music teacher Jim Perkins as conductor, the New Horizon Mulligan band presents a way for retired high school musicians to continue their passion. “There is a need for musicians to play after high school and college,” said Perkins. “It’s been really fun, but challenging to learn how to play the flute again,” said class of 1972 alumni Fran Frye. She, along with four other Borah alumni joined the band, and are among 80 members of the seasoned group. The Mulligan band practices every Saturday morning at Dunkley Music. Active in the Borah community, the Mulligan band played at the Booster Club luau dinner last month. When Perkins was at Borah, he was actively involved in the music department. For 30 years, he made his name as the band teacher and drill team adviser. It wasn’t until last year that retired Dunkley music shop owner Fred Hebert approached him about being the conductor for the Mulligan band. “I immediately thought of Jim as conductor,” said Hebert. “He has such a reputation.” New Horizons offers a musical outlet to retired artists. This program of music-makers is open to all ages and accepts new members every week.
A&E
Pokémon
Returns with updated graphics and over 150 original creatures
By Justin Kirkham
After the staggering debut of 156 new and unique creatures, the overall count of revealed Pokemon climbed to 649. In Nintendo’s newest members of the Pokemon family, Black Version and White Version, these electric zebras, ghost jellyfish, and metal-laden seeds come charged with new attacks and fresh abilities. Pokemon Black and White follow the same plot line as their predecessors: the trainer must traverse the region, collecting gym badges, fighting off battle-eager opponents, and capturing the critters that hide in tufts of tall grass. All of this is accomplished while putting a stop to a team of villains. In contrast to the usual world dominating villains of Pokemon games, Black and White’s gang is a group called Team Plasma, who strives to liberate Pokemon from their controlling trainers out of its inherent charity. Pokemon Black and White introduce various new features, while eliminating some of the older, outdated ones. The touch screen of the DS sports the C-Gear. This in-game device allows the trainer to be constantly searching for wi-fi, infrared, and wireless connections. The battle scenes in these games are excellent. Instead of having simple sprites that move slightly at the beginning of the fight, Pokemon now move throughout the battle, and even close their eyes when put to sleep. The camera moves from Pokemon to Pokemon, spotlighting attacks, and giving them a stylistic depth.
Photo by Ali Clapier
Image from www.gadg.com
The environment, on the other hand, is appealing, but too gaudy. The thriving metropolis of Castelia City is divided into a series of confusing alleyways and roads. The camera changes perspective constantly in an attempt to make navigation through the bustling city easier. For some, the depth and complexity of the graphics are embraced, but for others, this labyrinth is overdone. In addition, before entering major buildings the trainer pauses dramatically for a couple seconds. Pokemon veterans find these awkward breaks scattered throughout Unova to be obnoxious and disruptive. Despite their minuscule problems, Pokemon Black and White are an essential part of any Nintendo gamer’s collection. They have plenty of new attributes to entice those who are unfamiliar with the Pokemon franchise. But they also entail a large amount of nostalgia to keep past trainers hooked.
Writer’s Corner: Brooke Wimer By Justin Kirkham
Even though she prefers the short story, junior Brooke Wimer still enjoys perfecting the stanzas in her poetry assignments from creative writing class.
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By carefully sifting through uncommon word combinations and the new faces she encounters, junior Brooke Wimer is able to formulate convincing and innovative stories. She prefers short stories, for they are “long enough to get a fully developed plot and short enough to be precise in every single word.” She particularly enjoys writing realistic fiction. “I like to make it believable and to be adventurous and creative within it.” “I’m kind of everything,” she remarked. “I just start writing and see where it goes.” To realistically bring out her characters, Wimer dots her writing with culture-centered humor and colloquialisms. “I like being able to create an entire
world or an entire person and make it seem real,” said Wimer. “She has an amazing talent for language and culture,” said senior Kat Davis, “especially gangster and hick, or western and southern cultures.” “Detailing is my favorite part,” she concluded. Junior Carlee Parsley finds Wimer’s narrations especially gripping. “Her unusual descriptions catch you off guard,” Parsley explained. Wimer frequently uses young characters in her writing. “Usually there’s some sort of tragedy or something traumatic that happened,” she explained. Her characters are, in general, very relatable, but not particularly average. Her favorite piece of writing is “Grasshoppers.” Read Wimer’s short story on the Creative Fiction page at borahsenator.com.
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Q&A “I scattered Hershey Kisses all around and on a guy’s desk in his 5th period class at lunch and left a heart-shaped note that said, ‘Now that I’ve “kissed” the ground you walk on... will you go to MORP with me?’” ~ Sarah Aalbers, sophomore
The Borah Senator
April 13, 2011
“I bought a skeleton and made some guts out of Play Doh and put it on Matt Hart’s bed, then I tied a ribbon to it leading to the freezer...I hid my name in the freezer, and on his bed I put a sign saying ‘It would chill me to the bone if you went to Harvest with me!’” ~ Melanie Pocock, senior
“Straight forward, no beating around the bush. “I had my three and five year old sisters (cute) Its easier to do it that way and there is walk up to my girlfriend’s door holding a sign, no misunderstanding.” balloons, and flowers.” ~ Wyatt Lisk, senior ~ Dean Neptune, senior
What is the best way you have asked or been asked to a dance?
“I knew this guy once who spelled out ‘Will you “We placed red cups in the skybridge’s fence go to the Prom with me’ with platic cups across to ask Emily Russell to prom for the overland sky bridge. He must have Connor Yager. With the cups we spelled been a romantic genius!” ‘Prom Em?’” ~ Connor Yager, senior ~ Max Mohr, senior “I asked Corden Fuhriman to Harvest by making a Santa Clause and a wish list of all the things I wanted. Number one on my list was to go to Harvest with him. Sadly Harvest didn’t happen this year but Corden kept the list all the way until prom. He found or made everything on my list: a barbie wig, electronic fly swatter, chocolate covered broccoli... At the completion of my wish list, he said, ‘Now that I have completed your wish list, will you make mine come true by letting me take the most beautiful girl to prom?’” ~ Kiri Highman, senior
“I came home for dinner one night and walked in to my bathroom. I was very suprised when I noticed my bathtub was already filled up, with a cute little boat floating around. There was a big sign above my bathtub that said, ‘I don’t know a “boat” you, but I’d love to take you to homecoming’. I answered him by making a cake... with a boat on it. A sign sticking out of the cake said, ‘Row, row, row your boat, gently down the stream, going to homecoming with you would be nothing but a dream!” ~ Danielle Byrd, senior
The Borah Senator
April 13, 2011
People
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39-year veteran retires
with some of the most talented teachers in the state of Idaho or the world,” he said. His 39 years as a teacher seem to have left their mark. Junior theater student Stephen Winter described Hensley as “a being beyond human understanding,” adding that no one could ever replace him.
“I think he is an inspiration to a lot of people even if at the time they don’t realize it,” remarked sophomore theater student Kendall Tookey. Both Winter and Tookey agree that they will miss Hensley’s mustache. Hensley said he would miss the “challenge” his students bring. “It’s their life, it’s up to them to make it.” The English and drama teacher would not change anything about his experience at Borah. “I think things have worked out,” he said. If he could give a piece of advice to someone attempting to fill his shoes, Hensley would tell that person to be themselves. After retirement, Hensley said he plans to expand his organic gardening and raspberry business, which he has run outside of teaching for 15 to 20 years. If retired life becomes boring, Hensley said he plans to run away and join the circus.
manding part of Maughan, the orthe whole applicachestra teacher tion process was here, and has been the recording. “It playing the violin was nice because since she was in if you messed up, fifth grade. you could just hit The first part the stop button of the application and then record it process was talking again.” However, to Ms. Maughan, she added that and finding out it was also very deadlines of apstressful and time plications as well Photo by Korey Combs consuming, “It as sending in the Senior Jessi Brown plays the violin in the orchestra room. takes so long.” recordings. After P re p a r at i o n , researching, the sons. After she recorded herprocess consisted mostly of self playing, she sent the tape she says, is key for the application process. For the audition, learning music for the audi- to the colleges. tion tapes as well as taking lesShe said that the most de- she had to learn a Bach piece,
an etude, and some scales. “I had to learn these in a week and a half,” she explained, and added that her advice for future applicants would be to prepare earlier. She added that she is hopeful in being accepted into a music program. “It would be really disappointing to not make it.” Brown, who is in Borah’s audition Chamber Orchestra, aspires to become an elemlentary teacher, but wants to use her background in music to teach private lessons. “I love kids and I want to teach.”
By Samantha Whittaker
Photo by Ali Clapier
Drama teacher and director Gerald Hensley smiles durring introductory theater rehearsal..
Theater and English teacher Gerald Hensley plans to retire at the end of this year, concluding a teaching career spanning 39 years. Hensley spent five years teaching at South Junior High and 34 here at Borah. Hensley said he believes that his best years at Borah were spent from 1964-1967 when he attended as a student. “ I thank my teachers and I thank Borah for giving me the want and desire to be more than I actually am,” he said. He added that his experience here has made him realize the importance of making at least one person smile every day. However, the veteran teacher said that he is ready for retirement. “I find that there are other things I am ready to do in life besides teaching.”
Although, Henley said he enjoys teaching because each day is different. “I have really been blessed. I’ve had some really talented students, that’s what makes it all worth while,” he said. Henley commended his colleagues. “I have worked
His best years at Borah were spent from 1964-1967 when he attended as a student.
Senior college applicant aims to teach music
By Savannah Harrelson
Senior violin player Jessi Brown sent her college audition tapes into three schools in hopes of being accepted into one of their orchestras. She wishes to be accepted into a music program at Oregon State University, Utah State University, or Indiana University. Her first choice is IU. “They have an amazing music program, with a whole separate school for music.” She has been taking private lessons for the duration of this school year from Ms.
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Sports
Track & Field raise funds with annual Jogathon
Photo by Korey Combs
Trackletes vigorously circle the track in order to make money for their upcoming season. By Jamie Jones
Head Track & Field coach Jeremy Dovel tightened the elastic band on his running shorts, laced up his running shoes and strapped on his sweat bands, gearing himself up for Borah’s annual “Jogathon;” a time when track participants run, or jog, for an hour straight, while being sponsored by friends, family and fellow teachers to complete a certain number of laps during the hour. But unlike any other time before, this March Dovel joined his fellow athletes in the fundraiser, running along side them in an effort to raise money for the track and field program. If the runners raised over $150, they didn’t have to pay for their “Spirit Pack;” a package of sweat pants, t-shirts, water bottles and Borah paraphernalia that they wear to represent the school. “The reason I ran was mostly to help motivate them,” Dovel said. “The
more motivated they were to run further than me and the more money they were motivated to raise, the better.” Dovel has been involved in Track and Field for 13 years, but has been the head coach at Borah for three years now. For the first time jogging among his athletes, he raised over $150 for running 22 laps, five and a half miles, around the track; he was sponsored by close friends and co-workers, some including Librarian Jennifer Boyd, Attendance Secretary Jan Lee, and Math teacher Becky Brown. “I sponsored him because I’m a runner and I know how hard it can be,” recalled Boyd. “Good for him for getting out there and doing it!” Junior and track participant Becca Whipple enjoyed taking stride along side her coach. “It was fun to see him running with us,” she said. “He was super sweaty. But it really showed that he was one of us.” Whipple raised over $100, enough to have the balance on her “Spirit Pack”
cleared. “I lapped him a couple of times,” she added. “I think that was my favorite part! I lapped my coach! He was huffing and puffing.” Many other track members said they enjoyed watching Coach Dovel jog during the hour-long fundraiser, including senior Quinn Moore. “He did a great job,” Moore expressed. “It was entertaining to see him crawling across the finish line,” he said jokingly. “I’m joking, of course. But it was cool to see him involved.”
Photo by
Korey Combs
Head track coach Jeremy Dovel steadily ran 22 laps around the track during jogathon.
The Borah Senator
April 13, 2011
Losing: nothing new to boys LAX team By Megan Harrigfeld
A lackluster lacrosse season is what Borah is in for yet again, losing all games thus far in the season. “The team is pessimistic due to the the bad reputation we’ve had in the past,” said senior Trevor Hopkins. “It’s keeping people from joining the team.” With less than 25 members, the team is looking dry, and it is weighing down on performance. “Teams can run in circles around us because we don’t have enough players,” said Hopkins. Senior Curtis Pangelinan has worries about where the progress is going, yet is more optimistic than other players. “Offensively we are much better, but defensively worse,” he
said. Ironically, new coach Parker Sweet is trained in defense and insists that the defense is stronger this year. With to no support from Rowdies and even parents, the team’s motivation is small to repeal the long time losing streak the team has found itself in since 2009. “It’s hard to get the parent dedication,” said Sweet. “The school doesn’t support us in general,” said Hopkins. Some players do not even show up to the games, and Hopkins complained that they do not even have enough players for every position. As confidence diminishes with every loss, without a win soon the lacrosse team may continue its curse of losing in seasons to come.
Football team begins early morning work-outs to better themselves for competition By Sage Unsworth
Although track is still in the blocks, and baseball is just getting into full swing, early morning workouts for the up-coming fall football season are underway. “Coaching is a year around job.” said head football coach Chester Grey. Playing may be as well, with the only break from coached activities being during the winter months; even then athletes are expected to lift weights and stay fit on their own. Workouts are during zero hour period on Wednesdays
and Fridays for the remainder of the school year. They will consist of strength, speed, and endurance building exercises as well as football specific drills. Players who have a zero hour will not be excused from class to participate in workouts. “It will help the team a lot if everyone goes”, said sophomore Hunter Kenyon. Kenyon went to a couple early-morning workouts last year as a freshman at West Jr. High. “They helped me figure out the steps, and learn the offense.”
The Borah Senator
April 13, 2011
Sports
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Owens gets personal best in New York By Brandie Cichy
Junior Brittany Owens traveled to New York to compete in a track competition. She qualified at an indoor meet in Idaho where she placed first in both the long jump and the triple jump. She was sponsered by New Balance and given $1,000 to travel and compete. In New York, Owens made personal bests in each category where she competed. She logged 18’07” in the long jump and a 36’ 11” in the triple jump. She took first and third place respectively. “Brittany is a very gifted athlete,” stated math teacher and track coach Jeremy Dovel. “My expectations for her are to work harder every year. This year she is more focused and expects more of herself.” Owens first joined track when her physical education teacher told her she was fast and recommened track. In eighth grade, Owen’s track coach recommened she become a jumper. Fron there Owens started competing
in the long jump and the triple jump. The triple jump state record is 39’2”. Owens hopes to beat it this year. For the long jump, she is shooting to jump the length of somewhere in the high 19’ or low 20’. To prepare for her trip to New York, Owens was put on a special diet and had indoor practice every Tuesday and Thursday after she qualified for the competition. Student athletes from around the nation competed. “The competition was kind of like a regional tournament,” commented Dovel. Owens also said that she was surprised that she did so well because she didn’t expect it so early in the season. “The trip to New York was really fun. It was a great experience, one I couldn’t get by staying in state,” Owens stated. “The track was amazing and everyone was warm and welcoming. It was really cool,” she added. Photo by Katie Helm “I was really excited. I don’t get nervous at meets. I don’t know why,” Junior Brittany Owens gets ready to recieve a baton during a relay at the Caldwell meet. Owens said laughing.
“It was a great experience,one couldn’t get by staying in- state.” --Brittany Owens, junior
Girls golf team quadruples in size from last year By Haylie Pelton
Four girls. One team. Among sports, golf isn’t the most popular among girls. At Borah, junior Kristin Bracewell and sophomores Jordan Drexler, Savannah Harrelson and Shelby Hinkle make up the girls golf team. Since the team is composed of four members, all of the girls play on varsity. The season started Feb. 25, according to Ron Freeman, Speech and AP American Government teacher. He said practices are held after school at the Hillcrest Country Club and end around 5:30 p.m. Drexler said that they “have to dress nicely” when prac-
ticing at the club. Drexler is new to the sport this year. She said that English teacher Tony Quilici talked her into joining the team. Even though she has never played before, Drexler said that golf “seemed fun” and that it would be “a good experience.” It also gave her “something to do after school,” she said. Her mom also plays and gives her tips. In addition to golf, Drexler par-
ticipates in cheer, so she has not been able to make many practices. Hinkle said she has never played golf other than occasionally with her parents. She said friends talked her into playing for the team. Looking at her future, Hinkle also believes playing the sport will be “good for college” and possibly provide more scholarship opportunities. Hinkle also noted that it is “kind of
Golf is a “nice distraction” from all of the “craziness” of life. -- Amy Everson, history teacher
nice” to have a small team.With such a small team, the girls can hone their skills. Both Hinkle and Drexler stated that Bracewell helps coach. She has played since junior high school and has the most experience. For three years, Freeman has been coaching the girls golf team. This season marks the coaching debut of U.S. History and AP Human Geography teacher Amy Everson. She mentioned that golf is a “nice distraction” from all of the “craziness” of life. Freeman was “there at the beginning” of the season and Everson stays with the girls now, and helps them out with anything with which they might need guidance, Drexler said.
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JV Sports
The Borah Senator
April 13, 2011
Sophomore doubles serve tennis talk
Johnson: We encourage each other. Parsons: Yeah, I dance. And highfive, you know, oh and I sing. I Sophomores Rebecca Parsons and sing when I dance. We made up Katelyn Johnson, who are doubles on a song. the junior varsity tennis team, discuss Both: “Rackets up, rackets up, hit a tennis and their hobbies tennis ball…” How long have you been playing Any tips for tennis players who tennis? want to get better? Parsons: This is my second year Parsons: I’d say, be a good teamJohnson: Fourth year. mate. Help each other on the What made you decide to play courts. tennis? Johnson: Don’t underestimate the Parsons: It was something besides ball. track; that was getting boring. What are your expectations of Johnson: It seemed interesting. the JV team this year? Parsons: And you don’t do the same Johnson: To work hard, have fun, thing all the time. [Turns to Kateand like, dominate. lyn] Would you agree? Parsons: Just to be supportive. Johnson: Yeah, you do different Photo by Kristin Bracewell Cheer each other on. things everyday. Sophomores Katelyn Johnson, left, and Rebecca Parsons, right, prepare for a match. What do you do for fun, besides Who or what were your influrally on the courts? ences to start playing tennis? Parsons: No, this is our first year playing together. Parsons: I shake my booty. I sing when I shake my Parsons: I started because it was just something Are you best friends, casual friends, or just bootay. different besides the usual track and basketball. partners? Johnson: [laughing] I like photography, and cookIt was a new experience, and it’s fun. Johnson: Um, I’d say, we’re gettin’ there. ing. I take pictures of Becca shaking her bootay. How’d you two meet and when? Parsons: [To Johnson] That sounds like we’re datAnything else we should know about you? Parsons: We met at tennis practices. ing. Parsons: I make bets, and I owe a lot of people Both: Eighth grade. What are some strategies that you use on candy. Have you both been playing doubles togeth- the court during matches? Johnson: That about sums it up. er for a long time? Parsons: If I need help, I’ll yell “help.” By Matt Bray
Coach anticipates promising future in rich freshman lineup
By Megan Mizuta
Youth seems to be no significant barrier for the JV baseball team, whose record stands at 4-4. While 10 of the 15 JV players are freshmen, and head coach Mark Bilger described the team as “very young,” he also said he was “excited about the freshmen class” and that they would contribute to the “future of the program.” One of two returning players, catcher Canon Acosta, sophomore, similarly said that the team was “a lot younger” but likewise described the team as talented. “I see the potential in our guys,” said outfielder
Tyler Hobson, sophomore, also a returning player. Hobson said that many of the younger players had already gained experience playing Legion and summer baseball. Possible weaknesses for the team include hitting, which Bilger described as “inconsistent.” Acosta mentioned the importance of maintaining a strong mental approach game to game, while Hobson said the team’s strength is “staying positive” and that the “desire to win is there.” Another of the team’s strengths lies in their depth of pitching talent, according to Bilger, who noted that about half the team pitches, which he described as a “luxury to have.”
“I see potential in our guys.” --Tyler Hobson, sophomore
See borahsenator.com for more sports coverage
Photo Essay
The Borah Senator April 13, 2011
Seedlings of knowledge:
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AP Environmental Science plants native brush
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efore Spring Break, AP Environmental Science students went on a field trip to plant sagebrush and bitter brush at Hammer Flats on land a fire wiped out several years ago. The local deer feed on these native plants. When vegetation was demolished,
the Idaho Department of Fish and Game stepped in and replanted bushes. With instructions from Fish and Game employees and volunteers, students learned how to properly plant the bushes and eliminate competitive plants around them. The goal for the trip was to set in the ground all of the
starters in a timely manner in the hope they will survive to reproduce and feed the native deer population. Throughout the year, AP Environmental Science teacher Darin Zarbnisky sponsors environmental field trips, which range anywhere from one-day to weekend outings.
AP Environmental Science students Eric Hansen, senior and Anna Cafferty, junior learn how to plant sagebrush.
Photos and text by Katie Helm
The AP Environmental Science class walk about a mile from the bus to the planting site. (top left) Junior Dona Ochoa plants sagebrush during the spring APES trip. (above)
Students replanted bitter brush and sagebrush at Hammer Flats.
Junior Reese Spears packs the dirt around a new plant.
20
Fun & Games
Prom Comic by Lisa Garrard
The Borah Senator
April 13, 2011
Prom. That mysterious thing, close to the end of the year. Kids start buying dresses and tuxes and whatever accessories are supposed to go with them. People come up with new and interesting ways of asking their girl/ guy friends out. Having never been to prom or any other dances, I have to try and imagine what happens at prom based on stories and movies.
Forever Alone
Grinding. No, not what people do with their coffee grounds in the morning (unless they REALLY like coffee). I’m talking about two people with blatant disregard for PDA and other people’s innocent eyes. The act of “dancing” that’s only two to four layers of thin clothing away from being considered public indecency.
Ever seen “Carrie”? That movie with the telekinetic girl that has the crazy mom? Well, some evil girls pour a bucket of questionable red liquid all over her after she wins Prom Queen. I don’t think that movie had a very happy ending.
If I have learned anything from “Footloose”, then I can expect there to be crazy awesome synchronized dance sessions followed by angry adults that oppose dancing and rock ‘n’ roll.
Or it could be like what I imagine any school dances to be like. Only some people dancing and a majority of the people there standing awkwardly around the room and maybe every once in awhile giving a half-hearted bounce/arm shake.