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“It was a culture shock when I saw some students here in sweatpants and showing their underwear. I wondered if they were even students.”
The
Senator
Page 14
VOLUME 53 | ISSUE VI | APRIL 23, 2013 | 6001 CASSIA ST. | BOISE, ID 83709 | BORAHSENATOR.COM
See more art by Kali Anderson on page 2
Read about the music department’s trip to Portland, Seattle PAGE 8
Get the dish on culinary arts’ latest projects PAGE 10
See culture thrive at Jefferson Elementary ELL event PAGE 15
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Artist Bio
April 23, 2013
Established artist sets aside time to promote artwork You improve really quickly if you put effort into improving and practice a lot
By Ari Anchustegui
aanchustegui@borahsenator.com
“It’s through art I have matured the most,” admitted junior artist Kali Anderson, who has dedicated most of her time to art for the past few years. Anderson has taken Art 1-3, as well Junior Kali Anderson as Advanced Painting and currently, AP 2D Design. She explained that art is her way of putting her thoughts into tangible form. “It’s how I get my ideas out in a beautiful manner,” she said. Anderson works extensively on her tablet, an electronic pad with a touch sensitive pen, to create digital paintings. She strives to create characters, and is inspired by game concept artists. “Seeing the different creatures they can create inspires me to make my own,” she said. Always having a knack for art, Anderson has found ways to receive profit from her work--which bolsters the already intense support of her father--through public art websites. “My father is very supportive of my art, especially since I’ve been able to use it as a job and pay for summer school and such,” said Anderson; adding that on full paintings she makes a profit of roughly $100. “My father enjoys this because I can pay for summer school and other academic things,” she added. Though it has become a means of making money, profit isn’t the reason behind Anderson’s passion. “I really just like creating things that can evoke emotion in other people.” While painting, whether with a wooden paint brush or in front of a computer screen, Anderson remains focused and concentrated. “There are some days when I can sit down and work at it for 8 or 9 hours,” she said, describing that she tends to spend several hours completing a single piece. Anderson’s AP 2D Design classmate senior Cassidy Roell confirmed Anderson’s working style. “She’s secluded, she does her own thing and puts her headphones in when she does her art,” adding, “everything comes out fantastic.” Last year Anderson received first place in the annual Human Rights Competition, winning a painting kit, a backpack and an art supplies gift card. This previous March, a piece of hers was on display at The Boise Art Museum as well. She aspires to become a professional cartoonist or illustrator and hopes to continue on the path of art for the rest of her life, describing her passion as “rewarding and satisfying.” Jen Compton, her art teacher, was quick to describe Anderson as incredibly gifted. “She is super meticulous, her work is extremely detail oriented,” said Compton. “It’s safe to say she’s one of the most talented kids I’ve had in awhile.” Anderson suggested that her abilities derived from hard work. “You improve really quickly if you put effort into improving and practice a lot,” she said. “That’s really the best advice you can give anyone who’s trying to get better at something.” She said that it’s most important for artists not to compare themselves to others. “Focus on improving yourself--artists see other work and get discouraged, but an artist shouldn’t be afraid to fail.” said Anderson, adding, “If you’re not failing, you’re not improving.”
It’s raging in boise.
Spring swells. longboards&more. spring 2013. 1021 Broadway ave.
208.385.9300.
Senator Staff
The Borah Senator
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Prom sparks focus on teen relationships By Brittni Hanranhan
bhanrahan@borahsenator.com It is prom season and love is in the air. There are many things that happen during prom season: dress shopping, tuxedo renting, ticket buying, but most noticeably is new relationships. When getting into a new relationship, there are just a few things to expect. “Every plan that you make is not going to happen and things will not always work out,� said senior Brooke Huffman. “Don’t really expect anything. Things just happen. The fact that you get to enjoy your time with someone should be enough,� commented senior Tyler McCurdy. Relationships are not happy all the time. New couples especially might have a hard time with trust because it is a new person. Couples love to do things together to build trust such as going to the movies, hanging out, and even making dinner together. “I take my girlfriend to prom. I don’t like dances but since she likes it, I take her,� said junior Aidawn Miller. Teen relationships affect school both positively and negatively. They affect school in a positive way because there is
another person that you can depend on to help you study. Relationships can also have a negative effect on school because time spent hanging with the other can be spent studying. “High school relationships get in the way quite a bit because grades sometimes drop when you are going through a rough patch,� said Miller. Being in a high school relationship teaches you early on how to have a successful relationship with someone. It also gives teenagers the opportunity to grow into the person that they likely will be later in life. “Being in a relationship in high school is just a part of life,� said sophomore Mason Brown. On a Relationship Matters website (canyourel8.com/relationship-tips), five simple tips are provided: 1. Get to know someone slowly: People usually only show their best qualities in the beginning of new relationships. After time has passed, unhealthy behaviors will present themselves. 2. Hang out in a group first: Hanging out in a group first takes the pressure off. You don’t have to think about where to go, what you are going to talk about, or who is going to pay.
3. Listen first: People are drawn towards people who really listen to them. 4. Discuss expectations early: Setting up clear expectations early in a relationship makes it easier to determine early on a couple’s compatibility.
5. Take a tech break every so often: Using technology is a quick and easy way of communicating, but healthy relationships can not grow adequately without spending face-to-face time together on a routine basais.
Senator Staff Positions
Editor-In-Chief Savannah Harrelson Senior Associate Editor Grace Gibney Junior Associate Editors August Mckernan, Jaynee Nielsen Advertising Manager Brittni Hanrahan Photo Manager Jaynee Nielsen Page Editors Cover Savannah Harrelson Artist Bio Brittni Hanrahan Senator Staff Autumn Whittaker News/Prom Grace Gibney, Tea Nelson Opinion Gustavo Sagrero Life August Mckernan Spread Ari Anchustegui Arts & Entertainment Sara Rostron Trends Alexia Neal Sports Savannah Harrelson Photo Essay Jaynee Nielsen Fun and Games Alissia Harris Staff Writers Brittany Perry, Taylor McNitt, Tea Nelson, Sarah Draze Staff Photographers Autumn Whittaker, Jaynee Nielsen, Alexia Neal Web Edition 2nd period journalism staffers Adviser Michelle Harmon
Health Services for Teens
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News
April 23, 2013
One-way ticket to Short Lunch
Senior selected as Gates Millennium semifinalist
Missing assignments? Expect to spend lunch making up homework
By Grace Gibney
ggibney@borahsenator.com Senior Chandra Adhikari was selected as a semifinalist for the Gates Millennium Scholarship, part of a $1 billion grant by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. After being chosen from 54,000 applicants across the U.S., Adhikari has yet to hear if he has been selected as a finalist. “This is my first experience in applying for a scholarship,” said Adhikari. “I’m crossing my fingers and hoping to get it.” Finalists who win the scholarship have their college tuition covered for up to 10 years of schooling. This makes the Gates Millennium Scholarship a full-ride ticket, or as stated on the Gates Millennium Scholars webpage, a “goodthrough-graduation” scholarship. If chosen, the finalist must continue his/ her college education in one of the following areas: computer science, education, engineering, library science, mathematics, public health and the sciences. Another requirement of the scholarship is that an applicant must be from an an ethnic background. For Adhikari, he
Student Governent: election do-over
Photo by Autumn Whittaker | awhittaker@borahsenator.com
Senior Chandra Adhikari hopes to major in computer science in college. is from a refugee camp in Nepal where he first became interested in computers. “When I was in Nepal I had a hard time using computers,” said Adhikari. “It was expensive to use a computer in an internet cafe--$25 an hour for talking to a friend in the U.S. I lived there in a refugee camp. I needed better education, better health care. So I learned how to fix up my own computers.” After being in America for two years, Adhikari has improved his math skills in his AP Statistics class, along with his English speaking skills. “All of my ELL teachers helped improved my English--Mrs. Blair, Mrs. Boxer, and Mrs. Stafford,” said Adhikari. Depending on whether he becomes a finalist, Adhikari currently plans to study computer science and computer engineering at Boise State. If he wins, he hopes to join his brother and study at Eastern Washington University.
By Alexia Neal
aneal@borahsenator.com As the end of the school year approaches, Student Council opens the voting booths for new members to take the place of graduating seniors. Booths were opened on April 19, but only 170 students, 17 percent, participated in the first election. Administration felt the voting number was an inadequate representation of
into administration by Wednesday each week. Every fourth hour class receives a roster that contains student names that have missing assignments. Students who have missing assignments may be referred, and will receive a paper or By Jaynee Nielsen papers describing which assignments jnielsen@borahsenator.com need to be done. Fourth hour teachers escort students Finishing homework during collabo- named on the roster to a specified room ration lunch is not very ideal to many nearby. The students are supervised by students. However, students with miss- adult classified staff (teacher aides) who ing assignments may have to complete will monitor students while the teachers those assignments during long lunches are in weekly collaboration meetings. on Thursdays. Several students highly oppose the Short Lunch, a term for what some enactment of Short Lunch. Junior Landstudents might experience on the oth- on Galbraith is curious about how it will erwise long lunch collaboration days, work out; however, he said it will not was created because many teachers saw teach students responsibility. an increase in missing assignments. In response to Short Lunch, Galbraith The idea to creplans a petition ate a mandatory concerning the enlunch “detention” actment. He has was fashioned afasked a variety ter Capital High’s of students about program, and is their thoughts and supposed to help a large number he students turn in talked to opposed class work. Stuthe idea of Short Teacher Tony Quilici dents will give up Lunch. 20 to 25 minutes of their long lunch to He said many of the answers he redo homework. ceived were shallow, like, for example, “It will inspire kids to get their work “It’s stupid.” done and completed,” said English 10 Galbraith intends to compile the best and AVID teacher Tony Quilici. arguments and write a persuasive esAccording to Quilici, students are not say to submit to the administration. He feeling pressure to turn in assignments wants to petition Short Lunch because on time. the students have not been given a voice Teachers make a list of students who in the policy, and it is directly affecting are missing assignments and turn that the students the most.
It will inspire kids to get their work done and completed
the student body, therefore, booths were reopened days later for a second voting to be added to the first. Seniors Geoff Miller and Riley Woods, both Student Council members, were clad in clown suits to encourage people to participate. Still, only 50 students voted in the second round. “It’s honestly interesting,” said Woods, this year’s ASB Vice President. “People take for granted the ability to vote. In a way, it was good to give people a second chance.”
After the ballots were recounted, candidates met in the Student Council room to hear the results of the election. Aside from the complications with the voting numbers, current Student Council members seemed to be satisfied with this year’s elected officials. “I am pretty happy with the candidates that got picked,” said Woods.
Read more at borahsenator.com
Prom
The Borah Senator
Don’t fret, the Senator has worry-free tips for successful prom night By Sarah Draze
Fellas listen up, treat yo lady like a princess By Gustavo Sagrero
sdraze@borahsenator.com There are a lot of tasks that need to be taken care of when getting ready for that special night, Prom. Choosing a place to purchase a dress and shoes can be a hard decision. DEB has a special on-line for Prom 2013, and is a clothing store that supplies gorgeous prom dresses. Cinderella’s Closet has rentable dresses and tuxedoes. J.C. Penney has some beautiful dresses and a nice selection of shoes. 1318 has shoes galore, and Macy’s has some great dresses and shoes as well. These are just a few stores that have got your back this prom year. Some important dates to remember that will help you save money and get things done on time include 1318’s buy one pair of shoes and get the second pair free, Macy’s prom dresses are also on sale for 15 percent off through May. DEB is also having a great sale on dresses that include 20-40 percent off, continuing through May. Cinderella’s Closet, which supplies over 600 dresses and 70 tuxedos, has some extremely important dates to remember if you aren’t looking to buy a dress this year, opened March 30-May 18. There is a $15 rental fee on all dresses/tuxedos. Another thing to think about when getting ready for prom is primping yourself, which includes hair, nails, and tanning. Some possible nail care salons are Graber & Company, $30 for the spa manicure (45 min), $50 for the spa pedicure (50 min), and $55 for a full set of gels. D’Shaw Institute of Cosmetology also offers a great price and some experience for its current students in the field of hair, nails and make-up: mani’s at $6, pedi’s at $13, make-up at $7, and up-do’s at $15, or look for the coupon from Borah’s Prom Expo which includes hair and a mani for $15. Tanning is a huge thing for prom as well; Bermuda Tan has a package for three visits at $15 or a month of unlimited tanning at $56. You can never go wrong with an accent piece for your dress or tuxedo, and corsages and boutonnières are a great way to do it. Heavenessence Floral & Gifts, Overland Floral, and Hillcrest Floral have some gorgeous flower options ranging from $8 to $35.
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gsagrero@borahsenator.com For those taken fellas, it’s almost impossible to avoid. As for the free birds, they have a few more options, but overall prom is on everyone’s minds. To get there with the least amount of pain, pay attention. Before you begin anything, start with a budget that reflects how much money is available. Seriously, do it, even if your date isn’t. With a tux rental, shoes, dinner, corsage, and other things, “It can add up pretty fast,” said Jonathon Ganieany, a senior who’s been to a few dances over the span of five years that he’s been with his girlfriend. According to a report on CNN’s School of Thought blog, VISA reported the average amount of money that American families spent on prom was $1,078. Stay thrifty, my friends. There’s plenty of secondhand stores that have used jackets and slacks. And if that doesn’t work, and you really want to save, look around. There might be a cheap tie in one store, and a nicely priced pair of slacks in the other. And just because your dance moves consist of an awkward combination of t-rex hands and jerky hip swinging, there’s no reason why one can’t learn some basic moves. Ganieany even noted how students should just stick to grinding on each other. Chivalry is not dead. If your date’s the type who enjoys being taken care of, don’t be afraid to open doors and pull out chairs. A quick shout out to the girls here in room 501 about how they would like to be treated at prom. This also goes along these same lines, maybe not as much as “princesses,” but as senior Sara Rostron pointed out “I want to be treated like a lady, but I don’t want manners getting in the way of having a good time.”
Day dates make for comfy evening of entertainment By Alexia Neal
aneal@borahsenator.com As prom season approaches, couples are beginning to plan for the big day. Prom is known as a fun but also stressful day. A trend for prom groups is to arrange an activity together during the day or the night before the dance. Day-dates are enjoyable because they relieve the stress of prom and help the group bond before the big night. Senior Emily Davis said before homecoming, her group of five couples went to the park and played tennis and ultimate frisbee. “Day-dates get everyone more comfortable,” said Davis. “They get
the group more excited and less awkward.” Senior Jessica Phelan said she likes day-dates just as a couple’s activity. Bodies in Motion is an activity center located on Federal Way. During the day, it features a High Ropes course for $20 per couple. Individuals are harnessed onto a line and engage in a series of obstacles and rope jumps 20 feet above the ground. There is also a Cosmic Ropes course which features glow in the dark, neon bright colors, disco balls, and funky music for $12 per couple. Big Al’s is located off Eagle Road in Meridian. It was built in summer 2012 and has been a big hit for the Treasure Valley ever since. Big Al’s features a
restaurant, bowling alley, and arcade center. Ceramica is a pottery center on Vista. Customers can pick out an unpainted pottery piece and paint as they please. It is glazed and finished over night and can be picked up the next day. Prices range for different shapes and sizes of the pottery, but are anywhere from $4 to $55. True Paintball is an outdoor paintball facility. Groups and individuals are given loaded paintball-guns and let loose in an obstacle course-like setting. The area is crowded with car tires, abandoned buildings, and other hiding places. There is both an indoor and an outdoor option.
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Opinion
April 23, 2013
What is the role of student government? Staff Editorial As elections for next year’s council have come and gone, we as a staff have asked ourselves the question of what a student government is. As we’ve debated back and forth, our answers became more complicated than they actually needed to be in the first place. When selecting who should be on student government, elections should not necessarily be strict, but selective about which students are allowed to run. Candidates should also be required to go beyond what is typically acceptable, like hanging posters around the school. If a student is truly willing to be a part of student council, they should have to work for the position. After all, if a campaigner does not want to earn his/her spot, the individual likely won’t work towards improving the school. When picking a candidate to vote for, a student should be informed about the ways in which the candidate plans to contribute to the school. After all, that is the duty of student government. Like in the real world of politics, a candidate should have to campaign. This can include writing a speech to read in front of the school, talking to students one-on-one about the candidate’s goals, and participating in debates with opposing candidates. By campaigning, this would help distinguish one student from the other, and help the student
Dress code unnecessary By Ari Anchustegui
aanchustegui@borahsenator.com Clothing oneself is a form of epression; the way a person dresses reflects on his or her character and tastes. Dress codes are modesty guidelines made to reform personality traits expressed through clothing. Student Conduct under the Student Responsibilities section of the District Policies and Procedures for Students 7-12th in the student handbook lists Student Dress Code (#3223), and states that “Clothing, accessories, cosmetics,
Photo by Jaynee Nielsen | jnielsen@borasenator.com
Low voter turnout prompted administration to pull out the booths again. body know what to expect from its student government in the upcoming year. Additionally, this will help break away from the idea that student council elections are a popularity contest, that the most well-known kids win. Once elected, a student government should be expected to work with the school’s administration. Both institutions need to be on the same page about activities that are occurring within the school. For example, a few representatives can sit in on faculty meetings and add input about what is going on within
the government and within the student body. At the same time, administration can approach the council with questions or concerns. This approach exemplifies the goals of this year’s current student council. “We hope that student council would be a student led organization that would act as a liaison between Mrs. Hammer (the principal), and with what the students want,” said ASB President Keltie Vance. However, while being in-sync, both student council and administration
tattoos and jewelry that are immodest, disruptive, gang-related or displaying illegal or banned substances are not appropriate...” Senior Chloe Ball said, “If we didn’t have a dress code, people would wear freaky stuff to school.” However, spending an immense portion of time enforcing the dress code policy takes away focus on academics, shifting the importance of school work and achievement to apparel and self presentation. We are considered mature, young adults, yet are told what to wear. High school students are far too old to be told how to prepare their outfits. Parents don’t pick out clothing in the mornings anymore, so why should teachers be responsible for refining them? “It makes you seem determined if you look nice,” said junior Mackenzie Chiles. “You look lazy if you’re wearing
something that isn’t appropriate.” All of us should know how to dress decently by now--we don’t need to be told. In the real world, streets aren’t overrun with outfit monitors. It is a choice, a freedom to put on our own style of clothing. What we wear represents each person as an individual. “The way I dress explains who I am and what I like,” said Chiles. “Uniformity degrades personality.” Students in high school need to learn how to present themselves appropriately. Disciplinary harassment isn’t going to give motivation to dress respectably. This is a concept that should be implemented into the minds of students already. It is a responsibility that every person in the world has the option to take: to present oneself with dignity, or rebel
need to function apart from each other. Student council needs to be able to make decisions without needing them to be approved by administration, and vice versa. One institution does not control the other, nor does one rely on the other to complete its tasks for them. Both groups are in agreement on how the school is to be run, but they carry out respective tasks in an independent manner. Additionally, student council needs to be an entity in which they are open to being approached with suggestions and ideas from students as well as teachers, above all things. After all, since they are elected by the students, it would hardly be fair if they were not open or willing to listen to feedback. In order for a student government to be successful, it must equally and fully represent the student body. It needs to be a structure that is legitimate and accountable to the student body, such as, ideally, how our own government is a representation of the American people. As stated within the mission statement of the American Student Government Association, “Becoming a great Student Government doesn’t happen overnight. It takes time, sacrifice, and a willingness to do whatever it takes to get the job done. Commit to learning, serving your institution, fulfilling your job responsibilities, and completing your projects. And above all, commit to constantly improving.” and appear unprofessional. “People make conscious and unconscious first-hand impressions, and the first step to controlling that is your appearance,” said School Resource Officer Steve Kincheloe. “You can say you don’t care about what other people think about you, but it affects more than just whether you’re going to get a job or not. It’s not even on purpose, it’s just the way people think,” he said. As high school students, uniformity and enforcement of the dress code policy is unnecessary. If we truly expect to be taken seriously, we will take our appearance seriously. “I have never seen anyone get arrested for their clothing,” noted Kincheloe.
To see other opinions on similar topics check out borahsenator.com.
“Art Is Never Finished, O
8 | April 23, 2013
Music departme Seattle for
By Savannah Harrelson
sharrelson@borahsenator.com Photo by Autumn Whittaker | awhittaker@borahsenator.com
Beginning Theatre students prepare for upcoming play.
Theatre classes rehearse excessively in preparation for May productions By Sara Rostron
srostron@borahsenator.com There are currently an exponential amount of plays that are being produced in Drama. Three will be directed by drama teacher Heather Pirus, two by senior Sarah Aalbers, one by senior Miranda Madrid, and one by senior Alexia Neal. This is described as the equivalent of a senior paper for drama students. They are responsible for choosing a play, holding auditions, picking appropriate parts for each role, and directing the show. Aalbers explained that the most difficult part of the process is how much stress it has been. “I’ve acted in school and professionally, but this has given me a whole new perspective on the other spectrum. It looks much easier than it actually is,” she said. “I found that I’m a huge pushover.” As the director, it is her responsibility to have some sense of control over the actors. “I have gone from friend to director. It’s hard having the actors listen. I’ve tried to be a hard-ass, I’ve tried to let them do their own thing. Now I just have to find a happy medium.” While she directs the students in some sense, she explained that it’s her job to envision, but it’s up to the actors to put it together. Aalbers has focused her plays on bullying. The plays are called “Flash Mob” and “Bi-Standard Blues.” She said she hopes people will make it to the show because both have good messages.
“Seeing my vision come together is the most rewarding part of all.” Aalbers plans to apply for a scholarship for the American Academy for Dramatic Arts, where she wants to study film. Senior Mia Guanado plays a part in “Exit and Dancing Solo.” She said she feels that it is not difficult to be directed by her peer because there have not been any debates thus far. “Lexi is organized and professional. When she corrects us, it is kind and it’s nicer because she’s a friend.” Guanado’s responsibility is to make sure she knows her part. “It’s all I can do!” Junior Hailey Moore has a part in “Dancing Solo.” Her role is to play a drunk mother who has problems balancing alcohol and her daughter. “It’s actually really hard to portray someone drunk consistently,” she said laughing. Moore’s previous roles have been playing older people, but this show is a contemporary piece and she is excited to have the opportunity to play a different role. “I’m kind of a sadist, so working on a team is both the worst and best part.” Her advice is to give support and allow yourself to be supported. Drama students are rehearsing virtually every day after school up until mid May in attempts to have the shows go off without a hitch. Madrid’s and Pirus’s first play debuts this weekend, two will follow next weekend, and Aalbers and Neal’s plays are scheduled for May 10 and 11.
A trip only supposed to last three days was extended to four after a storm hit the Northwest, leaving 208 teenagers and 35 adults stranded in Seattle, Wash. While viewing the Daft Punk laser show at the Pacific Science Center, music directors learned Snoqualmie Pass east of Seattle on I-90 was closed due to heavy snow. Bus drivers were supposed to take this route back to Boise overnight, after the 8 p.m. laser show. Following the show, students were informed that they unfortunately would not be making it home that night as planned. Instead, the five busses headed toward Portland, Ore. and stay the night. “I was slightly excited, but also a little bummed because tour is fun but it’s also nice to sleep in your own bed after being gone so long,” said senior Emanuella Mazile, a choir student. The party arrived in Portland around 2 a.m. and students were instructed to be on the bus for departure at 7:30 a.m. All five busses arrived at Borah at 6:30 p.m. Despite the mishap, students enjoyed a jam-packed weekend in Portland and Seattle. Wednesday afternoon, the kids loaded the busses and departed for Portland. Arriving at 8 p.m. Pacific time, the group ate dinner and walked around the Clackamas Town Center mall. The next day, orchestra and choir students toured and had clinics with PortPhoto by Savannah H land State University and Band, Orchestra, and Choir studen the band visited Pacific ton? on the Music Departments tr
Only Abandoned”
The Borah Senator | 9
- Leonardo da Vinci
ment ventures to Yearbook staff completes task r field trip By Savannah Harreselson
sharrelson@borahsenator.com
Photo by Savannah Harrelson| sharrelson@borahsenator.com
University. These clinics are ways for professors to listen to the students play and give critiques and suggestions for technique and interpretation of the music. “You learn so much from having a different conductor in front of you, which is great,” said Mazile. At 1 p.m., the group headed into Seattle and boarded a dinner cruise at 6 p.m. The cruise, by Argosy Cruises, sailed the Puget Sound waters around the Seattle waterfront, providing views of the sunset and the Seattle skyline at night. A buffetstyle dinner and dessert was served.On Friday, the students received a wake-up call at 6 a.m. and retreated up to the northernmost part of Washington to tour and have a clinic at Western Washington University in Bellingham. After the tours and clinics, the five buses left for Pacific Lutheran University in Tacoma, Wash., but because of the heavy traffic, the students missed their clinics. The buses instead turned around and headed toward Safeco Field, home of the Seattle Mariners. The students watched the baseball game, and the Mariners beat the Texas Rangers, 3-1. Saturday was a play day for the group. In the morning, they explored the Experience Music Project (EMP), which is a pop culture museum featuring exhibits such as “Nirvana: Taking Punk to the Masses,” “Icons of Science Fiction,” “The Art of Video Games” and many others. After the EMP, students were let loose in downtown Seattle (in groups of three or more, of course) to explore to their hearts desire. The students met back at Harrelson | sharrelson@borahsenator.com the Pacific Science Center nts visit The College of Washing- at 7 p.m. for the laser show, rip to Seattle. and the rest is history.
Only one object holds the distinct and individual memories that we will hold on to, or try to forget, for the rest of our lives. We often don’t hear much about the creators of the publication, but the yearbook staff works all year long to produce one of the most treasured artifacts from high school. At the start of each year, the yearbook staff already has a theme picked out. This year’s theme is “Pieces of Us.” Editor of the yearbook, senior Kelsey McHugh, explained the inspiration of the yearbook: “We thought about how everyone is different, but together we make up Borah High School.” In order to incorporate the theme, the staff ingrained puzzle pieces throughout the book, showing that each individual is a puzzle piece, but put together all the students create Borah. McHugh gave The Borah Senator an inside look at some of the elements in this year’s publication. All of the page numbers are puzzle pieces. Also, the front of each section features a collage of pictures in Polaroidstyle frames.
Above is a sneak peak of this year’s 2012-2013 yearbook. The yearbook staff also reached out to the art department, asking students to submit work, which is displayed on some of the backgrounds of the pages. The staff also tried to include “all the different cultures at Borah,” McHugh said. The process of completing a yearbook is a yearround task. Staffers take pictures at events, meetings, and games. Every month the staff must meet a deadline, submitting a few pages at a time for proofs. Once they get the proofs back, they check the pages for edits and send back the final copies. “Editors would stay until like 7 at night,” explained McHugh. “We spend lunchtimes, we miss periods to go in and work.”
Open studio entices ceramically inclined By Harmony Soto
hsoto@borahsenator.com
Photo by Jaynee Nielsen | jnielsen@borahsenator.com
Junior Jessye Miessek throws clay to create a bowl on the pottery wheel after school on a Tuesday.
Every Tuesday after school, from 3 to 5 p.m., students head down to the ceramics studio to socialize and play with clay. The studio, hosted by ceramics teacher Patrick Rose, was originally opened due to a “social outcry.” Rose wanted to give students a place to hang out with friends and have a taste of what ceramics class is like. “There’s not enough time in an average school day for kids to do all the electives they want to take, so open studio gives them a chance to do just that,” Rose explained. During open studio, students first come in and dig out a chunk of clay from the clay bins. After they’re satisfied with their own chunk, they get to work at one of the studio tables, molding and carving the clay into whatever they intend to create. Open studio can also be used as
a place to catch up on projects for ceramics students, such as in the case of UsaAmera Coronado, senior. “It’s also a really good stress reliever from school,” she said. “It’s a great way to use your creative sides,” said junior Christian Hale, as he was kneading a large slab of clay. The studio is not only open to Borah students--just about anyone can come, including parents, siblings, graduates, or students from other schools. Borah alumni Abby Whitman took advantage of this. “I think it’s really cool,” Whitman said, as she smoothed out the rough edges of her clay whale. “I like how the school doesn’t just totally kick you out once you leave--things like this give you an opportunity to come back and enjoy yourself.” Open studio is hosted for free in the math wing inside room 411, every Tuesday after school, ending in April.
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Life
April 23, 2013
Culinary students cater Borah events By Autumn Whittaker
awhittaker@borahsenator.com As the pan sizzles, a light aroma drifts up and into the hallway. Students walk by and take it in. Their mouths begin to salivate out of curiosity, wanting a taste, just a little nibble. Shanon Holt’s Intro to Culinary Arts students have prepared meals for many Borah events such as the Dennis Dehryl Technical Center’s freshman open
house, and the Borah Booster’s annual fundraising dinner. Since the culinary students were able to cater for the Borah Boosters dinner below budget, more projects can be funded. “Most events are required for a grade, but most of the work is done in class,” said senior Scott Diehl. Even though the culinary arts class cannot replicate the urgency of a restaurant, it gives students a hint of what it would be like to work in the food indus-
try. Senior Daniel Stoddard is just one of the students who aspires to own a restaurant. He joined Culinary Arts because he loves cooking, eating, and making food he enjoys. “The class is pretty awesome,” he noted with a smile. “Everyone is a great cook.” Looking up to give her students a slight grin, Holt remarked, “The class is crazy!” She added, “They all have great
personalities and work their brains out.” Juniors Natashia Reeves and Anthony De Stasio are going to continue their culinary classes at the Renaissance Center next year. “It’s basically a tech center for cooking,” said De Stasio. The class that these students will be attending is an advanced culinary arts class and will help them continue to learn to prepare food and all the aspects of running a restaurant.
Barbershop quartet wins 1st in talent show By Sarah Draze
sdraze@borahsenator.com
Photo by Autumn Whittaker | awhittaker@borahsenator.com
Juniors Stephen Gagnon and Rex Spjute and seniors Tyler Hobson and Stuart Gagnon stretch their voices far into the audience with their soulful melodies.
Having a talent can mean the world to some people; it might be how they define themselves and show off their skills. Borah’s talent show, which featured performers this year, was a cruncher, but when it came down to it, there could only be one winner. Splash of Juice (SOJ), a barbershop quartet, comprised of juniors Stephen Gagnon and Rex Spjute and seniors Tyler Hobson and Stuart Gagnon won first place. “It gives us confidence, so later after high school we can enter into bigger competitions,” said Stephan Gagnon. He said his interest in being in a barbershop quartet was inspired by earlier
training. He confidently stated, “I took piano at 5 and still do, and started choir in fourth grade so that had a lot to do with it.” “SOJ actually got started about two years ago but I have been in one for three years! We have also won about $1,000 in cash prizes,” he continued. Spjute giggled as he said what the group planned to do with the $150 prize money. “We like to all get together and go to Taco Bell or Jack in the Box. So probably spend it on tacos!” Hobson stated, “There was a lot of vocal acts, it was sort of nerve racking because that’s what we were going to be compared to. Every other person that was singing, which was most.” He also said the group is “saving the money to go get tacos at Jack in the Box.”
Chess team stretches analytical muscles in tournaments By Jaynee Nielsen
jnielsen@borahsenator.com Sweat dripping off of his scrunched brows; his face of concentration shows the intensity of the game. However, this is not a typical game of wits, it is much more. The tournament was held at Vineyard Boise, a church in Garden City. It was crowded with nowhere to walk or even stand. Junior Tyler Lopez competed in the Idaho Scholastic Chess Championship
March 16. Lopez won second place overall; he won four of five games. Competitors from all over the valley came to compete for the championship title. Their families and coaches camped out in the main hall, in the chapel, and in the gym. Five Borah students attended the championship: seniors Austin Carter, Houston Bentley and juniors Blue Greear, Iain Campbell, and Lopez. Borah won first place as a team at the tournament. Borah hosted its own tourna-
ment--the 17th annual Borah Chess Tournament--April 18. Lopez has not competed in a chess tournament before; the championship tournament was his first. He was self-taught and liked to play chess with his uncle when he could. It was a struggle to compete against others who played daily. “Play my game, play what I know,” said Lopez. He said his strategy is to look for any openings that can possibly determine the fate of a game. He stuck to familiar openings that
he knew would work. One is the Italian game, which is where the bishop is used to attack the opponent’s f7square. Campbell placed eighth in the tournament. He won two games and forfeited the other three. The technique he favored was taking out his opponent’s entire right side of the board and capturing the power pieces as soon as possible. “Being able to outsmart other people is the best part of chess,” Campbell said.
Arts & Entertainment ‘The Host’: overall disappointment Senior musician to study at Berklee College of Music
The Borah Senator
By August Mckernan
amckernan@borahsenator.com
Aliens, a worldwide invasion, and a steamy love triangle sounds like the makings of a great movie, right? Wrong. “The Host,” based on the book by Stephenie Meyer, failed to live up to these potential characteristics. First, the aliens were nonviolent and wore all white the entire movie; it looks as if the angel metaphor was taken a bit too far. The love triangle/square/unknown shape among characters Wanderer, Ian, Melanie, and Jared falls flat. It was hard to work out whether there was any meaningful character development between the many kissing scenes in the rain.
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“The Host” wasn’t entirely devoid of positive characteristics. The dialogue was funny at times, leaving the audience chuckling long after the line was delivered. But between the weird echos when Melanie spoke and the cheesy Southern accents, it was hard to stay amused for long. As a movie, “The Host” would have succeeded much better if released in two full-length movie parts. This way, the plot and characters could have been fully developed, like in the book. Overall, I wouldn’t recommend someone pay $10 to see this movie. Spend your money elsewhere and save your eyes, ears, and brain the pain.
More big name bands are coming to Boise this year By Ari Anchustegui
aanchustegui@borahsenator.com Local music fanatics need not worry about post Treefort anxiety! Throughout the next couple of months, Boise will be filled with an array of musical events. Many concerts are in store, especially with the nearby festivals in surrounding states. Boise will catch the pre and post flow of musicians, allowing many venues to reel in a few larger names. “I catch word of upcoming concerts-- there was some talk about The Bloody Beetroots, Flux Pavillion, Porter Robinson, Benny Benassi and Krewella playing but it hasn’t been confirmed,” said senior Luke Brandt, who works as a promoter for EDM’s (Electronic Dance Music) Tim Beck, founder of Audio Thrill Production and EDM Division Director of The Revolution Concert House and Event Center. “Anyone will come to Boise for the right price,” said Beck. Imagine Dragons have already sold out their May 21 show at The Botanical Gardens, as well as Fun with Tegan and Sara on Aug. 28.
According to Words & Deeds, a blog on The Idaho Statesman’s website, The Lumineers will be playing at The Revolution Center on May 28, as part of Yahoo’s On The Road Tour that Imagine Dragons and “Fun.” are also part of. The article by Michael Deeds read: “The only thing actually confirmed is that 1) The Lumineers are coming May 28 to Boise.” On April 19 Method Man and Redman will also perform at The Revolution Concert House and Event Center. The Knitting Factory’s calendar is packed! Alex Clare April 30, Tyler, the Creator with special guest Earl Sweatshirt May 5,The Shins with Ra Ra Riot May 12, Limp Bizkit May 21, Pepper May 22, Rusko May 25, The Postal Service May 28 and The Tallest Man on Earth May 29, all at The Knitting Factory. Emmure will be performing at The Idaho Center on July 2. However, there is yet to be a lineup for The Boise Music Festival. This July 5-6 will be the second year for Sun Valley’s MassV music festival; where Krewella and Gramatik are headlining. “It’s really great that bigger names are beginning to play in Boise,” said Brandt.
30-minute video that he sent to a school in San Diego. Carlson chose to go to Berklee due For senior Sam Carlson the admis- to the contemporary ethics the school sions process for college was much promotes. He said the best part of third greater than that of his peers. But for quarter was visiting Boston and he left him, the reward was worth it. feeling good about the school. Even the Carlson is planning to attend the core classes that Carlson will be required Berklee College of Music as a percussion to take are influenced by music theory. major. It has been his destination school As a student of the music program, Carlfor the past two years. son will be introduced “The admissions to many opportunities process focused less he would otherwise be on academic requirewithout. ments and more about “Berklee’s film stuthe skills of the musidents need players to cian,” he said. Carlson record for soundtracks, flew to Boston to audiand pull from the mution in person, but he Senior Sam Carlson sic department; it’s didn’t go in blindly. He great networking,” he said he was able to audition at two other said. schools before his final audition at BerkCarlson said he plans to become a lee. performance major, with an emphaHe first auditioned at the University sis on playing the marimba. Although of Idaho with one hour to prepare. “The Carlson has already been accepted, he is audition required quick thinking and still trying to arrange how to pay for his was very under the gun,” he said. college experience. He said, “the highest Second, Carlson taped a self-directed cost comes with the highest reward.”
By Tea Nelson
tnelson@borahsenator.com
The highest cost comes with the highest reward
Thrift shop fashionistas to strut stuff on runway By August Mckernan
amckernan@borahsenator.com Thrift store fashionistas, bespeckled in fanny packs and leopard print pants, will parade the halls of Borah in the upcoming Thrift Shop Pageant Show which A.C.E. (Art, Community, Ecology) club will oversee. Juniors Haleigh Gregory and Baeleigh Hamlin, co-presidents of A.C.E. club, are taking the lead on this project in early May. They plan to sell tickets for a maximum of $3. Gregory said she received the idea for a pageant show from photography teacher Debbie Chojnacky. Chojnacky said Borah has seen various fashion shows throughout the years, but that this is the first one that will feature thrift store apparel. She plans
for her photography students to cover the pageant and gain more real world experience with lighting, speed, and experience. Gregory said A.C.E. club plans to enlist models from the student body and judges from the faculty. They have tentative plans to award the top three contenders in the pageant with cash prizes of $100, $50, and $25 and generate the money for the prizes by fundraising activities like car washes and bake sales. Gregory said she and Hamlin decided to make it a thrift shop pageant show because of the growing popularity of thrift stores. She said all students are welcome to sign up as models but are required to “put their own outfit together” and all items have to be from a thrift store.
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Sports
April 23, 2012
Cheer squad sweeps first place trophies Group wins two competitions, district tournament, state championship By Brittany Perry
bperry@borahsenator.com The 2012-2013 cheer squad has had an extremely successful year. With hours of long practices and multiple sporting events, the team has pulled together. This year’s cheer squad won just about everything in which they competed. The cheer team took first place in almost everything. They won first in every category except competition. At state they placed third in their pom routine which junior Hailey Neff said “wasn’t a very important routine.” They also were named grand champions at two competitions, district championships, and state champion-
ships. “My squad is my everything. They are the brothers and sisters I never had and we are so much more than a team,” Neff said. “We all get along really well which is a nice change from last year and it kills me that our season is over. This team was perfect.” Cheer requires loads of strength, agility, and a willingness to push yourself. Often times Cheer is mistaken for just yelling and not doing much. Little do some realize what the athletes actually go through on a daily basis. “We tumble, we dance, we jump, we throw girls 20 feet in the air. And while it’s all hard, it’s so worth it when you finally get a new skill,” Neff noted.
There were girls who quit this year and it was difficult to find out who exactly could be the right match to pull up from the junior varsity squad. “In the end, we learned who was dedicated and it was best for them and we miss them alot, but we overcame the struggle,” Neff added. As far as injuries go, this squad had their fair share. Neff said she deals with tendonitis every other month; junior Ashley Buzzini tore her meniscus; sophomore Sarah Keeth has hurt elbows; senior Jordan Drexler broke her nose twice; and, senior Evan Hartwell sprained his ankle. “It’s honestly 2 minutes and 30 seconds on the mat, you can push through anything. Girls perform with broken
legs!” Neff said. “We rock,” she said with a smile on her face. Cheerleading is not just about the cute uniforms and the sparkly glitter. It is all on them to cheer the team on and encourage them. Their dedication and time put into the season is incredible. Occasionally during a rough/close/nail biter game, a cheer and words that bring the members of the team up is very important. Seniors Drexler, Hartwell, and Delaney Kleven have enjoyed their years cheering for Borah and wish the best of luck to the underclassmen. Multiple members of the cheer squad referred to one another as “family” and that there was no other group of people they would want to cheer with.
Junior athlete struts her stuff in multiple arenas By Taylor McNitt
tmcnitt@borahsenator.com Junior Hayley Morse, not only a star basketball and volleyball player, but also a thrower for the Borah track team, has shown her great ability for all of the sports she has played this year.
A: In shot put I want to throw 37 feet and in discus I want to throw 115 feet. But I won’t complain if I throw even further!
Q: What inspires you to become better?
Q: What events for track do you participate in?
A: During track season, I throw shot put and discus. But I also play basketball and volleyball in the off season.
A: I also sing in two choirs. Our motto in choir is “Nobility does not lie within being superior to others. True nobility lies within being superior to your former self.” The quote inspires me because it helps me focus on the type of athlete I am and how my true goals are to be a better person than who I was yesterday.
Q: How is your season going so far?
Q: How long have you been doing shot put and discus?
A: My season has been going great. I’ve made a lot of progress with my form.
Q: What are some of your strengths and weaknesses in your event?
A: Strengths: I’m not easily bothered by other opponents. I just kind of do my own thing and worry about myself. Weakness: I care a lot about how I progress. So it stresses me out when I don’t clearly progress.
Q: What are some of your goals for the season?
Q: How do you make the physical transition from volleyball and basketball to track?
A: Well during basketball and volleyball season, I have to be more fit in the endurance sense because those sports have more running and jumping. But when it comes to throwing, I do
more weight lifting because I have to be more explosive in the small movements.
Q: Do you plan on doing track in college?
A: I do plan on throwing in college. But there is also a possibility of volleyball or choir!
A: I have been throwing for seven years.
Q: What type of training do you do for your events?
A: We do a lot of weight lifting and some sprints. We drill a lot! Drilling is where we break down our forms and perfect them.
Q: Do you have any pre-meet rituals?
A: I have my lucky underwear! I also drink about seven bottles of water throughout the day and I wear my treble clef necklace until I have to throw.
Photo by Autumn Whittaker | awhittaker@borahsenator.com
Junior Hayley Morse participates in volleyball, basketball, and track.
Sports
The Borah Senator
Softball team ‘shaping up’ in new season By Alissia Harris
aharris@borahsenator.com Softball has faced several struggles since 2009; the team had changes in the coaching staff, and continue to lose strong players. This season the team has been shaping up; they have a lot of league players on the team. Kourtney Armstrong, senior, has been the captain for the last three years and this year she’s the only senior who plays on the school team. “I really enjoy the game, and I love all the girls. Yeah, we’ve faced struggles in these past years but I love the motivation of them,” said Armstrong The team’s first win for the season was during spring break against Fruitland, but it’s been neck and neck in each of the prior games this season. “Winning that game was the turning point for the season, because we finally have the confidence and knowledge that we can win,” said Armstrong. This year, the team has some great defense and has increased its ability to work as a team. Armstrong said she believes it’s because of the team’s unity: players have gotten better at fixing their mistakes, and there aren’t any quitters in this bunch of girls. Although the team is very young, not many of them have much practice with the sport. Many have just picked up a glove and gone for it. In some aspects, this inexperience shows with some of the girls. Softball, like all sports takes practice and time, so having so many newbies on the team has been a disadvantage. Another struggle the team has overcome is the constant change in coaches “Having these changes in coaching staff has been hard since it’s harder to build a bond with them, or when you do the next year you get a new one,” said Armstrong.
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Borah grad takes on college athletics Brittany Owens, University of Louisville freshman, strives for Olympic dreams By Savannah Harrelson
sharrelson@borahsenator.com “She’s just the highest standard Idaho has ever seen,” said junior Kelsy Briggs about close friend and fellow athlete, long-jump and triple-jumper Brittany Owens. Owens, a 2012 Borah graduate, is at University of Louisville on a full-ride athletic scholarship. Here, she broke nearly every record in the state and was the first Idaho woman to long-jump over 20 feet. But that’s not all she accomplished at Borah. She is a six-time state champion, winning first place in the long-jump and triple-jump her sophomore, junior, and senior years. She was the Gatorade Athlete of the Year twice, Borah track Most Valuable Player all three years, and broke all of Borah’s jumping records. Now, she’s competing in the Big East conference, contending against schools like Georgetown University and University of Notre Dame. Recently, she finished seventh in the Big East Indoor Track and Field Championships. “It’s way more competitive than Idaho was,” said Owens. “In high school, I could jump poorly, and still beat everybody. I’m not used to
Ultimate Frisbee team sets high goals for season
not making the top eight.” In her first meet at Louisville, she jumped 19 feet 1 inch, which positioned her in national rankings. The rest of the indoor season she said she was, “just working hard to get on the board.” So far, she has competed in two outdoor meets, and said she has been jumping consistently in the high 18s. “At her level, it’s like her job,” said Briggs. “She has to work harder, and she has to focus more.” “The hardest thing for me was adjusting to how the coaches coach,” said Owens. “Over here, I wasn’t given any slack.” She said workouts are 10 times harder, and sometimes she found it hard to even want to go to practice. “For people who are thinking about going to college sports, make sure you really love it, and pick the right school because it becomes more of a job than just a sport.” Owens said she has high hopes for the future, as she aims to jump over 20 feet this season, and one day make it to the Olympics. “I’m so lucky to have the coach I have; he coaches the gold medalist in the long jump,” said Owens about her coach Joe Walker, Jr. Although it was hard to adjust to liv-
ing in Louisville, she said after a while it felt like home. “It’s basically my family over here-it’s what gets me through every day is having them here supporting me along the way. “
By Alissia Harris
team really put forth the effort to beat them and by halftime had regained the lead of 7-6. Returning to the game, both teams played with intensity. Time was running out so the referees decided that the first team to 10 would be pronounced the winner. The two teams were tied 9-9 and then Rocky took the win in the last couple of minutes. The team was devastated as Tyler Hobson, senior, recalls it. Although the team has faced struggles, it has high expectations to become of the top teams in the competitions this year. “All the way to state!” said Hobson. Hobson has been playing ultimate since his sophomore year.. He said most of the young players on the team have really grasped the strategies of the game. Edwards said she’s seen the growth and excitement in the new players and their desire to learn the concepts.
aharris@borahsenator.com The ultimate Frisbee season has lost two games so far; one against Rocky Mountain with the final score 9-10 and Boise 13-8. Both games were neck and neck, according to senior Kasey Edwards. “When we try really hard, it doesn’t really feel like we’ve lost,” said Edwards. In the Boise game, the competitors had to play “savage,” meaning all the players had to play for the whole game since many of the players were out for the HOSA (future health professionals) conference. It was a hot day, and the team members said they felt exhausted by the end. Edwards described how impressed she was with her team and how well they worked together in tough situations. The Rocky Mountain game started 0-4 with Borah falling behind. Then the
Photo by Jeff Reinking | Louisville Athletics
Brittany Owens competes in the long jump event at the Kentucky Invitational Jan 12. She placed fifth in triple jump.
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Trends
April 23, 2013
Thrifting allows students to expand wardrobes and experiment with styles Buying used clothing is not only cool nowadays, but affordable By Alexia Neal
aneal@borahsenator.com “I wear your grandpa’s clothes, I look incredible.” Macklemore hits it spot on with the new single “Thrift Shop”, just reaching five million sales in late March. Although the song is new, thrift stores have been providing clothing and supplies for people looking for a bargain for many years. Only now is it becoming a fad of some sort. It is no longer cool to wear the top brands and newest styles, but rather, to have a large variety of clothing and a distinct style that can’t necessarily be obtained at new-clothing stores. The warehouse setting, the stale smell of the elderly, and the interesting shoppers are all part of the thrifting experience. Thrift stores appeal to people
of all ages and income levels because they hold affordable, one-of-a-kind items. When it comes to thrift stores, one man’s trash is another man’s treasure. Senior America Ramirez said she shops at thrift stores like Restyle and the Youth Ranch at least once a month. “If you go to the right one, you can find vintage things that are in style now but much less expensive,” Ramirez explained. “There’s also a big chance no one will have the same thing.” The most appealing aspect of the thrift stores is how inexpensive their contents are. Prices for items fluctuate based on brand, condition, and rarity. Many high school students are finding that they have to fund their own shopping habits, so the thrift stores are the best way to keep up a variety of fashionable clothing. Senior Hannah Grange said, “Thrift
stores are cheap and I’m in high school…. I ain’t got no money for Prada!” Thrift stores are like no other stores because shoppers can’t predict what they’ll find. Inventory includes clothing, shoes, bags, furniture, electronics and appliances. One can also find wacky and weird items like clown suits, top hats, and snakeskin boots. Senior Brittany Johnson said, aside from her love of affordable clothing, that she likes thrift stores because of the entertainment aspect. “It’s fun to try on funky outfits with friends,” Johnson said. Junior Haleigh Gregory said she visits the thrift stores at least once a week to look around. “I don’t always go for something specific. Sometimes I go because I have money and want to spend it.”
District dress code policy is challenged by springtime clothing: bro tanks, bra straps By Sara Rostron
srostron@borahsenator.com As the heat is on the rise, students are ready to unbundle after the cold winter. However, modesty is often overlooked as a virtue, and instead replaced with carelessness. The Boise School District’s dress code policy describes in detail that female students are not allowed to wear anything that reveals bra straps and gives specific dimensions for the appropriate length of shorts (where your fingertips fall on your thigh). Females are not the only culprits in the matter. “Bro tanks” or “muscle shirts” are also on administration’s radar for inappropriate clothing. While male students seem to show “skin” it is not perceived in the same way as females. For most people, a male showing skin shows confidence, while a girl showing skin connotes something much more se-
vere, an opinion that no student wants to be held to. Students are called down to the office for inappropriate clothing, but it seems as if more students--both male and female--are able to get away with revealing outfits. What’s at question is the fine line between appropriate and inappropriate, or rather, between what meets and doesn’t meet dress code here at school. Assistant Principal Kelly Fossceco shed light on why there is a dress code policy. “It’s important to follow the dress code because this is education and you need to dress appropriately,” she explained. “This is a different social area than a night on the town. You’re here to learn.” She added that spring is officially here and the administration would appreciate if students followed expectations. Students also shared their opinion on the topic of dress code. Senior Willow
Jarvis said she believes that being comfy is different than not caring. “I was born in China, where we would always have to wear a belt,” she said. “It was a culture shock when I saw some students here in sweatpants and showing their underwear. I wondered if they were even students.” Jarvis said she believes students don’t dress appropriately because they either don’t care or they are trying to get attention. “It doesn’t show something positive about them, though.” Senior Mallory Sosa described the more conservative style she uses at school than on a night out. “I think it’s fine to show skin, but it’s annoying when girls are wearing the same short shorts even in winter.” She said that ultimately it’s a decision about how one wants to be viewed. Jarvis said that she doesn’t judge how other people dress because people are free to express themselves this way.
Coffee helps social status By Autumn Whittaker
awhittaker@borahsenator.com
Dear Diary,
I attempted to become a popular kid again. This time, instead of wearing the latest styles or partaking in cool events, I got coffee. I know this sounds so simple. You must be wondering, “How could you possibly think that would make you cool?!” But what you don’t know is coffee is now cool. During my observations of the in crowd, I noticed getting Dutch Bros before school or even at lunch would earn you an enthusiastic high five from your buddies. After seeing this, I decided to give it a go. Knowing that coffee is indeed a stimulant and my sensitive system might not be able to handle it, I did a complete research paper on it. This paper outlined the side effects, types, and uses. Empowered with knowledge, I set out to the nearest Dutch Bros one morning before school. I ordered the Er911. As soon as I tasted it, I knew it was not for me. However, I didn’t want the coffee to go to waste, so I chugged it, and then ordered a mocha to show off at school. The mocha was more my speed. When I walked in the school, it brought me a couple of “good choice” head nods but no enthusiastic high-five yet. The rest of the morning zoomed by. I was able to type 60 words per minute with my feet, and sneeze with my eyes open. I was on fire. As I flew through the hallways screaming “I’M BATMAN” I received many approval cheers. Even though I did in fact get multiple enthusiastic high fives and “Hey it’s Batman” comments, I did get kicked out of four of my classes, and crashed in the last two. My teachers didn’t appreciate my jitters as much as everyone else did. I ended up getting in-house. I guess I’m just living the thug life
Photo Essay
The Borah Senator
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ELL teens play global games on Cultural Day Text and photos by Jaynee Nielsen jnielsen@borahsenator.com
Around the world in 80 days, how about around the world in nine stations? Thirty-two English Language Learner (ELL) students attended Jefferson Elementary April 5. The ELL students learned games from around the world and, in turn, taught 85 fourth and fifth graders the games. The elementary students made origami shirts and flowers, learned a variety of card tricks, a marble game (Mancala), a traditional card game from So-
malia (Turub), and Chinese jump rope. They also played a version of marbles from Mexico, Escargot Hopscotch from France, Tire and Stick from Africa, and Takraw from Thailand. The kids seemed to enjoy Takraw the most. Takraw is similar to volleyball, but the players kick and head butt the hollow ball over a net. Susan Dennis, ELL teacher, arranged the lunch and games with Jefferson Principal Joan Bigelow. Both are anxious and excited to expand the cultural day to more elementary and ELL students next year. Bigelow said they accomplished what they wanted, which was to “open (students) eyes to new ideas, cultures, and games.” The kids were happy, engaged in the activities and eager to play with the “big kids.”
Above: Junior Klaw Reh demonstrates how to play Takraw to the fourth and fifth graders at Jefferson Elementary. The teenagers and kids had fun playing the game. Above Right: Winnie Palasch a fifth grader at Jefferson Elementary plays Escargot Hopscotch. Above and Bottom Left: Junior Raul Briceno-Castillio ran along side the kids as they played Tire and Stick, a race of how fast one can roll the tire down and back. The game originated in Somalia, however many ELL students had played Tire and Stick in their home country.
Junior Hassan Dawood teaches the kids how to make origami shirts.
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Fun & Games
Directions: Play with one or more people. Each player draws one line, either vertically or horizontally from one dot to another, to ultimately create the box. The player who completes a box puts his/her initials inside. The person with the highest number of initials wins.
April 23, 2013
Directions: Each row, column and block must have numbers from 1 to 9 in them. No number can appear more than once in any row, column, or block.
Satire: Prayer for the Pope By Grace Gibney
ggibney@borahsenator.com
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Heavenly Father, Thank you for this day. Thank you for your love towards humanity. Thank you for the obesity-ridden, calorie-consuming food that fills our American bellies. We are a blessed people. Father, thank you for Pope Francis. I praise you for his succession as the 266th pope of the Roman Church, for his accession within a line of old, wrinkled men. Lord, your grace astounds me. Despite having a single, lone lung, you have blessed our fearless leader with the mightiest of immune systems. Our dear pope does not need two lungs to live a holy life. What air he does not breathe through his single lung he sucks through his gills. Lord, the works of your hands amaze me daily. A pope with gills? How magnificent you are, Father, for creating this holy, mutant, superhuman being. I can picture him now, preaching underwater to the sea creatures of the ocean, his robe a billowing curtain, swaying in the current. The souls of those he cannot save on land he saves under the sea,
where the seaweed is always greener, where the fish are always happy. What a paradise you have created, Lord, beneath the water. You are good, Father. You bless me in ways I cannot see. But Lord, my heart is troubled. How is it that Pope Francis does not wear the red leather papal shoes? Forgive me Lord, but it feels barbaric for the pope to prefer sneakers to the infamous, red-hot loafers. With shoes like those, any mere man can walk on water. Everyday he’s shufflin’. And truthfully, Father, how could he prefer a stuffy, musty bus of grizzled seniors to a dapper limousine? I mean, really, adults these days. God, thank you. You always provide for the church in many miraculous ways. You are gracious. We are insignificant, like ants teetering across the ground. You could whip out a magnifying glass and fry us into holy dust. But no. You spare us, and watch over us as we pitter-patter about the Earth. I cannot say enough about how loving you are toward your children. You are good. Thank you. In the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Ghost, Amen.