The
Growl
Bettendorf High School Volume 49 Issue 3
Friday, Dec. 14, 2012
Texting and driving threaten teen lives by Megan Sanchez Editor
The day kids turns 16, the first thing they want to do is hop in the car and drive. The privilege to operate a motor vehicle, free of their hyperventilating parent next to them in the passenger seat, is something most kids look forward to. However, once they are given this opportunity, many take it for granted. “When you get in a car, it’s your job. Your friends, radio, and cell phone should not be your focus,” security officer Walt Powell said. Distracted driving has become an epidemic in today’s society. With busy schedules and technology rapidly changing, teenagers often find the car as their outlet for multi-tasking. One of the most popular activities students engage in while driving is texting. “It’s difficult to focus when multitasking, and focus is critical. Regardless of your driving skill, it puts your life in danger,” Powell said. According to textinganddrivngsafety. com, last year 23 percent of auto collisions involved cell phones. That’s equivalent to 1.3 million crashes. “Students think that something as scary as a fatal crash couldn’t happen at Bettendorf, but it can. They need to be more aware of the statistics,” Powell said. Bettendorf students are guilty when it comes to this dangerous act. Powell said he witnesses students texting and driving on campus on a daily basis, several times a day. He also points out that our students have an extreme lack of courtesy for other drivers.
“I text at stoplights. Sometimes I feel attached to my phone emotionally. When I am sitting at a stoplight with nothing to do it’s almost natural. I just grab my phone,” another anonymous student said.
Dixon would know the car was coming if she was not texting. Quite a few groups of students at Bettendorf have been in car accidents due to distracted driving on either end. Overall, Powell believes teen drivers are being less careful. “I think students don’t think about the aftermath and what could really happen,” Powell said. With high statistics, increasing deaths, and a school full of kids with the newest iPhones, one group of students feel something needs to be done. Sophomores Alaina Wallace and Kylee Cangas are heading the student council committee in the “One Text Could Wreck It All” project. They are working with sophomore Faith Martin and
Texting and driving increase your risk of crashing by
23 times.
“I text and drive because I feel like I have good peripheral vision, and I usually look up and keep my eyes on the road. I am pretty good at texting without looking, so I trust my instincts,” according to a student who wished to remain anonymous.
freshmen Karly Lent and Luke Hovey. These students are planning to have an assembly that will raise awareness of the issue of texting and driving. They are also planning on doing t-shirts. They will be partnering with the Bettendorf Police to
make this project happen. “I hope that, after this project, high school students realize that the dangers of texting and driving outweigh the need to send your friends a text message,” Wallace said. “No text is worth injuring yourself or others by not paying attention to the road.” The awareness week and assembly are set to take place sometime in December or January Officer Powell thinks it’s a great idea, and we will have all of the assets available by involving the Bettendorf Police. T e x t i n g and driving is undoubtedly a huge temptation for teens. However, http:// stoptextsstopwrecks. org/ has a few tips to help teens refrain from induldging in their cell phones while in the car. Tip one: “Out of sight, out of mind.
When you’re in the car, put your phone where you can’t get it. A place where you won’t even be tempted to look for it. No phone. No texting.” Tip two: “Silence is golden. Turn those notifications off. The less you hear your phone, the less tempted you’ll be to
Are three letters really worth your
LIFE?
respond while you’re driving.” Tip three: “Designate a texter. Borrow thumbs from a friend. Or lend yours to
Behind the wheel, one text while driving equals four beers.
For more information check out: http://www.allstatefoundation.org/keepthe-drive
a friend. Passengers get the privilege of texting while in motion.” So there are ways to prevent texting and driving. It might not seem like a big deal at the time, but it can end up impairing someone’s life, or ending it.
Opinion
2
The Growl Editorial
Cyber comments are permanent
The
S
NARL
Checking Twitter, Facebook, Tumblr and Pinterest before starting homework is the repeated cycle for many students throughout the day. With technology constantly at our fingertips, social media has become a powerful tool that connects all of us. “It is a fast and quick way to communicate,” Matt Degner said. “There is a sign of instant feedback.” However, social media can become a negative influence on students and greatly impact their lives. Some students post inappropriate photos or statuses, including cursing and rants, on various social media sites. According to a study by McAfee and Harris Interactive, over 80 percent of teenagers use Facebook at least once a week and over 50 percent admit they do not know everyone on their friend list personally.
The mentality that conversations and posts are person to person is not always true. More often than not, profile settings are set on public, which means anyone can see what is posted. Students sometimes forget posts directed towards certain people can be seen by everyone. Even if settings are set for friends only, everyone on your friends list, even those you do not know well, can see it. This can become sketchy when people are added that you do not necessarily know well, or at all. The study also states almost 30 percent of teenagers have posted harmful comments or photos about others online, also known as cyberbullying. Sometimes fake Facebook accounts are created in order to harass targets without putting a recognizable face on the bully. No matter if it is through Facebook, Twitter or text messages, administration takes
Sincerely, Sarah by Sarah Dixon Staff Reporter
Dear Sarah, The holidays are quickly approaching and I am dreading them. My mom celebrates Christmas; my dad celebrates Hanukkah. I always hate the fights on who I should spend the holidays with because my parents are divorced and live across town from each other. I enjoy getting gifts each night from my dad during Hanukkah, but my mom gets so offended that I spend so much time with him and one night with her for Christmas. I am just so confused; do I pick a Christmas tree or a menorah? Sincerely, Crushed holiday spirits
Dear Crushed, The choice is up to you, not your parents. You should pick both, why not? By celebrating Christmas and Hanukkah, your parents will understand that you’re spending time with both of them! Maybe you could spend a week celebrating Hanukkah with your dad, and then a week celebrating Christmas with your mom. Having parents who are separated can be really stressful, but let your parents know that you love them both so much! Be flexible with your parents’ schedules and when they would like you to spend time with them for holiday fun. If either of your parents get offended because you’re spending time with the other, just realize that they’re jealous because they both love you. Make time for both of your parents, and they should understand. So my answer is, pick the Christmas tree AND the menorah :) Good luck! Happy Holidays! Sincerely, Sarah :)
Growl Staff Editor: Megan Sanchez Sports: Mitch Parker Reporters and Photographers: Emma Brindle, Michael Conner, Anna Willey, Callie Heiderscheit, Brenna Bates, Brianna Klabunde, Allie Weis, Alex Connor, Sarah Dixon, Abbi Clevenger Online Editor: Jordan Raso Adviser: Connie King Mascot: Newsie The Growl is a member of the Iowa High School Press Association (IHSPA) and the Journalism Education Association. Visit us at bettgrowl.com. “Like” us on Facebook (bettmedia).
Dec. 14, 2012
The Growl accepts all signed Letters to the Editor by the student body. Letters may be edited for length, grammar, and clarity. Letters may be dropped off in D100, journalism lab or emailed to bhsgrowl@ gmail.com.
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action as soon as a cyberbullying incident is reported that affects students or disrupts the course of the school day. Students may find acts such as cyberbullying and ranting statuses can come back to haunt them when college application season comes around. “Sometimes students don’t realize their posts are not only sent to friends, but that everyone can see and judge it,” Denger said. “Whether it is colleges or employers checking Facebook, it can all come back in a negative way.” Michelle Knirr, senior, is considering Yale as one of her top college choices and does not want what she posts online to affect her chances of being accepted. “I don’t post inappropriate things online because I don’t want to wreck my future with posts or photos that would portray me badly,” Knirr said. Students need to realize what they put online is out there forever for everyone to see. Many colleges share ways to find out more about students, including looking them up on Facebook and Twitter, as well as searching for their names on Google.
This is especially true for students in sports or extracurricular activity scholarships. You may think the comment you post is funny or cute now, but put it in perspective with your future. If a college is deciding between two equally qualified applicants and one has inappropriate pictures and posts, the college will most likely lean in the direction of the student with the clean Internet record. “Like with anything, social media needs appropriate boundaries,” Degner said. Social media can be a very useful and fun way to stay connected; students just need to realize what is appropriate to post. Remembering every post is permanent, no matter if you go back and delete it, is important when debating on what to upload. When in doubt, stick with this rule: If your grandmother wouldn’t approve of it, don’t post it.
Guest Columnists
We’re BA (Brenna & Abbi) by Abbi Clevenger and Brenna Bates Staff Reporters
Have you ever experienced “that awkward moment when...” you walk into the bathroom, and there’s a person taking selfies. Well, let’s back up.. The definition of a “selfie” for those who don’t know is a picture taken of yourself at arm’s length. Usually selfies include duck faces, peace signs, and the toilet reflecting in the mirror. Anyway, back to the bathroom. The m o s t common response is awkward silence as you head into the stall, thinking about the last time you took a selfie, or j u m p i n g Lydia Aho takes selfies into the because she feels p i c t u r e . . . awkward if anyone else making it takes the picture; she a double loves Snapchat. selfie. N o w there is no sense in denying that fact that we have all done it. We sit in our rooms listening to music and nonchalantly pick up our iPods, making sure nobody is looking. The next thing we know the camera app is open, and we are turning the
camera towards ourselves pursing our lips and throwing up a peace sign. Okay, maybe that last part is just me, but I know everybody does it. Snapchat is a new sensation that allows students to take selfies a c c e p t a b l y. The new i P a d s specifically increase the Priscilla Tennant number of and Gloria Zamora freshmen and take a classic mirror sophomores selfie for Instagram. walking down the hall gossiping with friends, texting, avoiding teachers, and making super ugly faces in response to their latest snapchat. Then all of a sudden the recycling bin is in the way, swerve. Selfies are obviously a great and fun thing, except when they go wrong. We all have seen the selfie where the person didn’t take it themselves. Girls be like, “My boo caught me sleeping.” Yet the mirror in the background clearly says otherwise. So the next time you are walking down the hall snapchatting take time to think about the poor people walking behind you. Ain’t nobody got time for that.
Sports
Dec. 14, 2012
3
Volleyball wins first state championship in school history by Michael Conner Staff Reporter
Let’s be honest: if most people were jumped up early, taking the first two sets. to say that the The River Bettendorf Queens were volleyball team not giving up was going to easily, though. win the state Clinton took championship the next two before the sets, and had season began, the momentum they were heading into the probably either final set. The a volleyball Bulldogs took player or an the final set 15athlete’s parent. 11, winning a After working hard all season, the girls finally get to play The Bulldogs in the state championship tournament. bid to the state p r o v e d championship everyone wrong tournament. by going from underdogs to “wonderdogs.” Junior setter Anna Willey believed After a rather lackluster football season, that the Bulldogs were legitimate state the chances of Bettendorf winning state in contenders, even when most people any fall sport seemed slim. The volleyball thought that Bettendorf would not make it team finished fourth in the MAC while far in the playoffs. rival Pleasant Valley won the MAC and “Our team knew that we had the talent was looking to win the state championship. to win the championship. All we had to do The first step in winning the gold was was play our hardest and prove to everyone against that we were Davenport as good as we West in the knew we were,” first round Willey said. of the The next playoffs. task for the W e s t volleyball was no girls was to challenge beat Dubuque for the Hempstead. t o u g h Hempstead volleyball put up a tough squad, as fight for the Bettendorf The Bettendorf student section goes wild as the Bulldogs Bulldogs. s q u a s h e d get the final point in the first round match in the state The first set saw playoffs. the Falcons the Mustangs three sets winning, but to none. the Bulldogs rebounded the next set, tying The next round of the playoffs was it one set to one. against a tough Clinton squad. The Bulldogs Hempstead took the third set, putting the
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pressure on Bettendorf. The Bulldogs took “There were so many different emotions. the next set It seemed surreal to tie it up. at the time,” It all was Willey said. down to the “We try not to fifth and get ahead of final set. ourselves, we Bettendorf take things one won the point at a time. It final set, only really hit us proving that when we were it belonged at that point and in the they hit the ball tournament. out of bounds.” The girls The girls storm the court after an impressive first round Some people victory against Dubuque Hempstead. r u s h e d may wonder the court how the girls as the Bettendorf fans went wild after an could have peaked at just the right time impressive victory. and played so well when it mattered most. The next task was to beat Pleasant Junior Catlin Wernentin knew that the girls Valley. PV beat Bettendorf twice during could beat any opponent that came in their the season and were on a huge momentum way. roll, so chances of winning did not look too “We figured that it was going to be all or good for the Bulldogs. nothing. We fought until the end and left Once again, Bettendorf proved everyone everything on the court,” Wernentin said. wrong by One of the most beating PV in special parts, the girls the first set. believe, of winning PV won the state was winning second, but it for their coach, the Bulldogs Diane Lichtenberg. took the next Lichtenberg prepared two sets to pep bags for each advance to the girl, containing final round of inspirational material the playoffs. that helped the girls The only thing stay connected in left to do was tense moments. win the state Junior Elizabeth championship. Culliton believes Iowa City that Lichtenberg’s Anna Willey and Tessa Henderson block the High had just response to the Dubuque Hempstead hit. beaten the top victory was one of ranked Ankeny the best parts of and was looking to carry that momentum winning the gold. against the underdog, Bettendorf. “When we won, I have never seen Coach The Bulldogs took the first set against Lichtenberg so happy. It was such a proud the Little moment to be a Hawks, giving part of the first Bettendorf the volleyball state momentum of championship the match. The team at Little Hawks Bettendorf,” won the second Culliton said. match, but To top off Bettendorf was such a great quick to respond, performance in winning the third the tournament, match. Anna Willey The Bettendorf and Catlin fans were loud We r n e n t i n and proud as the were named Caitlin Wernentin spikes the ball for a Bettendorf Bulldogs were point. part of the Allclosing in on To u r n a m e n t their first state team. championship in school history. The fans After such an incredible season, it is were on their feet for the final point of the fun to think about the chances the girls last match. have winning state next season. In the As the City High player hit the ball out of meantime, the girls will enjoy the first state bounds, the girls rushed the court, jumping title in Bettendorf history. up and down in excitement. The student section erupted, cheering on the girls. Team captain Shelby Brandt was first to hoist the championship trophy. Parents applauded as the girls each held the trophy, some crying in happiness.
Features
4
Dec. 14, 2012
iPads revolutionize 9th-10th education by Alex Connor Staff Reporter
During the fall, iPads rolled out to freshman and sophomore students. Freshmen received their iPads before the sophomores, but soon within the span of a month’s time bulky black electronics became the norm to see in the hands of the underclassmen. With the whole world modernizing and becoming more technologically based, BHS is updating and slowly turning itself into a paperless school. In the 2011- 2012 school year, tablets called Transformers were tested to see if the school could implement tablet technology into the curriculum. By the end of the school year it was decided which new piece of technology would be handed out to the incoming freshman and sophomores. “The Transformers were bad, they didn’t meet curriculum requirements, and they were really unreliable,” James Gomez, sophomore, said. Gomez was in Honors American History his freshman year and got to work firsthand with the tablets prior to the iPads. As iPads were passed out, expectations of students were either met or slowly dismissed. “I thought we’d be able to access all of our textbooks on the iPads, and keep the iPads over the summer. I also hoped that we’d be able to use them more in the classrooms,” Gomez said. “I also thought that they’d come with a screen protector
School administered tablet update for underclassmen
and not as bulky of a case. It’s a lot to the app store, free apps carry.” Although the iPads conveniently allow students to access information and do research q u i c k l y , teachers are not completely sure on how to use them in the classrooms. Handed out at the end of the last school year, teachers have had a while to play with the new pieces of technology. “My math teacher has us use our iPads often,” Gomez said. T a k i n g advantage of some of the James Gomez shows off the cool things many apps that can be done with the school issued available on
iPads.
such as graphing calculators can help students avoid paying hundreds of dollars. Educational apps that s t u d e n t s commonly use in classrooms are Evernote, UPad Lite, Penultimate, StudyBlue, Google Drive, Haiku Deck, myHomework, Timeline Eons, and the Campus Portal app. Students don't always use the iPads, however, strictly for educational purposes. On almost every student’s iPad at least one gaming app can be found. “Other than
educational reasons I play games on my iPad and other miscellaneous things,” Gomez said. The games can often be a distraction to students trying to learn and teachers trying to educate. Games and apps that are often used among students are Flow, Snapchat, Whale Trail, Clash of Clans, and Subway Surfers. “It’s a good idea, but we have to keep a progressive attitude, and the use of iPads in the classrooms will improve when every upper and lower classmen has one,” Gomez said. By the 2014-2015 school year, every student at BHS should have an iPad along with every teacher, and the curricula should be much more evolved around the tablets. Soon BHS will be completely modernized and an almost paperless school. “It will get better with time,” Gomez said.
Other cool apps to download on the iPad: Idea Sketch Dropbox Facebook Twitter Instagram Temple Run iBooks
Sexual orientation bullying on the rise By Callie Heiderscheit Staff Reporter
“Sometimes I just want to be like, ‘What be considered offensive don’t really offend did I do to you? What did I do wrong? me. I hear stuff like that a lot, but most Apparently just my waking up today people don’t mean it in a hateful way,” bothers you,’” Max McInnis, junior, said. McInnis said. McInnis, as an openly gay student, faces However, McInnis understands not all his share of unprovoked adversity. One feel this way. Because there are plenty of may assume that the majority would come kids who would be rightfully offended by from head-on confrontation. This is not the such vulgar language, he feels that, when in case. mixed company especially, people should “There are always those people who say always watch what they say for the sake of things under their breath. I those around them. act like I don’t hear them. “Be careful about But let’s be honest, I’m not what you say around that deaf,” said McInnis. people. You never When students are bullied know how someone’s because of their sexual going to react, and orientation, it’s not an there’s no reason uncommon occurrence. The to offend someone second most common cause by accident. And if for kids being persecuted is someone gets offended, for this reason. Nine out of you come off sounding every ten kids in the LGBT like a jerk,” McInnis community have admitted said. to being tormented in While this sort of Max McInnis their school, according to rude and inappropriate BullyStatistics.com. behavior is displayed One unfortunate happening here is an at Bettendorf, McGinnis truly believes that increased use of hateful words and terms to the students here are more respectful than describe other students. The word “faggot” other schools. and “fag” are among some of the terms on “Maybe I just don’t see it, but for the the rise in schools. most part Bettendorf is pretty good about McInnis, however, claims he’s not all this type of thing. I know that I have said that bothered by it. my share of hurtful things myself, I mean “Really, the words people use that can everyone does it to some degree, but most
kids at the school are pretty understanding,” said McInnis. However, it is no secret that bullying, especially bullying based on sexual orientation, is not extremely uncommon. Kids who feel uncomfortable or insulted by the behavior of another student should speak to a teacher. Students should also be aware that those who purposely cause emotional and physical pain to their peers are being inconsiderate and cruel. It’s been said to students by guidance counselors, teachers, and parents since their first years in school. It’s been said so often that the phrase “treat others how you would like to be treated,” has, perhaps, become tired to some students and has lost its meaning. But the importance of showing compassion
Organizations you can contact for help: http://www.stopbullying. gov/ https://www.bullyhelp.org/ dev/counselor/login.php http://www.mayoclinic.com/ health/bullying/MH00126
and kindness to fellow students cannot be stressed enough. One can never know how that insult he just directed at some kid in his class, or even just his word choice, can affect another. One may end up with a broken spirit on his conscience, or even a life.
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Dec. 14, 2012
Student Outreach
5
Help out during holidays by Alex Connor Staff Reporter
During the holiday season, bells are ringing, children are singing, and volunteers are working hard not only to ensure that their families have a good holiday but to make sure that those in need have a nice holiday too. Enveloped in daily activities like searching to find the perfect gifts for loved ones and making sure that the house is perfectly decorated in holiday decor, forgetting to remember the real reason for the season can be easy. Time becomes blurred into faint memories as the season rushes by, but for those economically less fortunate having to provide for their families, and even themselves becomes more difficult. Luckily though, more volunteer work is available to help those in need this season. Standing outside local stores wrapped in gloves and jackets with an apron that reads “Salvation Army” while ringing bells with red kettles beside them, are volunteers and workers collecting money to donate to those in need. All of the Salvations Army’s profits
go to help fund shelters, meal programs, emergency assistance, and purchase Christmas toys for children. Almost any penny or dollar donated to Salvation Army helps make someone else's holiday season better. Although donating to Salvation Army and other charities is a great way to help out during the holiday season, there are other acts of kindness available. Soup
kitchens are always open and during the holidays more volunteers are needed, even if it does mean sacrificing spending time with families. Wearing hair nets and gloves, volunteers hand out lunches or dinners at soup kitchens to any homeless or less fortunate families that are unable to provide for themselves
the holiday season. Most volunteers are overseas; donating extra toys that you may only needed to either cook or pass out food have bough to Toys for Tots instead of so the job does not require much effort. returning them; and donating outdated or However, it does leave a lasting impact on outgrown clothes to charities or stores such those who are beneficiaries. as the Salvation Army or Goodwill. Working at a soup kitchen or donating The list of things to do to help out during money to Salvation Army whenever going the holidays is infinite, as most people to the store may not be the ideal way for could use an extra hand. So make sure everyone to help out during the holiday this holiday season you give one of the season though. Even little efforts can help greatest gifts of all and give back to your to make someone else’s holiday community. season or even day better. Spreading around the country is a silent system called Paying it Forward. When Paying it Forward, someone buy’s a random stranger’s meal without them knowing it. An easy way to do Find out more ways to help this is by going through a drive during the holiday season thru and telling the cashier that you’d like to pay for the by visiting these websites: next person's bill, so as they drive up, their meal will be www.salvationarmyusa.org completely free. www.goodwill.org Even though you may be www.riverbendfoodbank.org paying for someone who doesn’t need the extra help, www.cuqca.org (Churches United of somehow this random act the Quad Cities) of kindness almost always impacts someone's day in a positive way. There are many different ways to help out during the holiday season besides the ones already stated such as: putting together care packages to send to U.S soldiers protecting our country
Surround Sound shines by Emma Brindle Staff Reporter
Those looking for a unique experience Kennedy Knight feels the performances should be sure to check out at least one are the most exciting part of the experience. Surround Sound performance. While at Knight is most excited for Great River, the time of the show, a competition that showcases show it may seem to be choirs from all over the area. very organized and “I’m mostly excited for the shows complete as one unique and contests. Everything will come performance, there is a together and all the hard work put lot of work that goes into into the show will finally be worth it. each show. Hopefully we can win some contests, There are two too,” Burt said. choreographers as well There is also a novelty piece called as other writers and “Accident Prone.” A novelty piece is musicians to write the one that is meant to be funny with lots music and create the Knight enjoys of props and acting. Knight is really pieces. In addition to the aspect of looking forward to performing this those putting the show performing in the song. together, the group of shows. “It is a novelty students that make up number. It’s a the group put in tons of time and effort. fun song with a lot The shows this year include the Dec. of acting and props,” 15 show at Davenport North at 7:00 p.m., Knight said. Jan. 15 at Cedar Rapids Prairie, Feb. 2 at James Berry, choir Mt. Pleasant, Feb. 16 at the Adler Theater, director, is very happy Feb. 23 at Western Dubuque, and March with the group of 2, which will hopefully be at the new students. performing arts center. “They are very, very Vocal music Senior Eliot Burt is a new member to nice people. They are instructor Jim Surround Sound this year. the best kids in school. Berry “It takes a lot more commitment and I just love seeing the energy than people think to do well. There’s growth from rehearsal tons of dance moves to learn and rehearsals to performances,” Berry said. can leave you exhausted,” Burt said. The songs include “One Great Big However, all that hard work pays off Adventure,” “I’m in Love with a Girl,” when it comes to the shows. Sophomore “Orphans of God,” “Accident Prone,” and
“Fade Away.” What most do not realize is how much work truly goes into each performance.
Eliot Burt “Surround Sound is an extracurricular activity. It is all done outside of school, involving extensive three hour rehearsals every week, an extension of vocal classes rather than cocurricular which is a part of the school day. Everyone who is a part of show choir is in choir at school,” Berry said. Whether it be to experience the talents of fellow students, or just to get a glimpse into musical fun, show choir is a must see for this season.
Holiday Trivia: 1. Most of Santa’s reindeer have male-sounding names, such as Blitzer, Comet, and Cupid. However, male reindeers shed their antlers around Christmas, so the reindeer pulling Santa’s sleigh are likely not male, but female. 2. The Germans made the first artificial Christmas trees out of dyed goose feathers. 3. In A.D. 350, Pope Julius I, bishop of Rome, proclaimed December 25 the official celebration date for the birthday of Christ. 4. Christmas trees have been sold in the U.S. since 1850. 5. Alabama was the first state in the United States to officially recognize Christmas in 1836. 6. Christmas wasn’t declared an official holiday in the United States until June 26, 1870. 7. Oklahoma was the last U.S. state to declare Christmas a legal holiday, in 1907. 8. Evergreens have been symbols of eternal life and rebirth since ancient times. The pagan use and worship of evergreen boughs and trees has evolved into the Christianized Christmas tree. Information source: facts.randomhistory.com
Entertainment
6
Music speaks to all ages by Brenna Bates Staff Reporter
A part of everyday life, music is used as a method of communication, connection, and even therapy. Hundreds of genres and subgenres swim through the musical world, and appeal to the ears of those who are interested enough to look for it. Although many people take a strong liking to music, it doesn’t have the same use to everyone. Senior Stefanie Cook said that music has opened many doors for her in the aspect of friends, relationships, and new experiences such as Lollapalooza. “It’s been a gateway to a lot of experiences I’ve had and things I know about now,” Cook said. “It’s shaped me socially and intellectually, greatly.”
“Michael Jackson,” because I hope the Berg said. “But I guess music impacts them props to Beethoven, how it did me,” Cook he was probably pretty said. “I want to share important.” that with people.” According to Wilming, Music also plays The Beatles are one of the a huge role in most musically diverse relationships and bands. friendships. “But they paid the “Music has had a price for it,” Wilming huge impact on my said, “fans are becoming relationship. He told Paige Berg met lead singer of more fickle.” me the main thing Motion City Soundtrack, Justin Cook also believes that first attracted him Pierre, at a concert in Des that The Beatles shaped to me was my taste Moines. modern music. in music,” Cook said “As for genres, I would about her relationship say rock ‘n’ roll of three years and jazz music with her laid down the boyfriend, Dan base for the Shoemaker. music we have With the today,” Cook large selection said. “Music of songs wouldn’t have released it gone anywhere if it weren’t for those who could be hard to choose a favorite. For challenged the boundaries.” these students, it was difficult to choose, Growing up, music is something that but not impossible. is a constant in the lives of most people. “‘For Emma’ by Bon Iver,” Berg said. Driving in the car, the faint background “My favorite lyrics are, ‘For all your lies, music in grocery stores, and even when you’re still very lovable.’” put on hold for a business call, music is Wilming claims that his favorite song something that is frequently present. has been “Satisfaction” by The Rolling “My father is a composer,” Campbell Stones for some time now. said. “Nowadays, I have my own desire to “I put myself in the song,” Wilming said. listen to music.” “But a lot of the times, when I listen to a Cook says that her music interest could song, I feel like the put me into the song never be narrowed to one genre. themselves.” “However, my top five favorite bands are Cook said that her favorite song is Mew, My Chemical Romance, Radiohead, “Weird Fishes Arpeggi” by Radiohead. Minus the Bear, and “My favorite lyrics Gorillaz,” Cook said. are from “Street Cook aspires to be a Spirit Fadeout” by singer, and her inspirational Radiohead,” Cook said. music figures are Florence “’Immerse your soul in Welch of Florence + The love.’” Machine and Morrissey of Campbell says that The Smiths. his favorite song is Wilming makes room “Guaranteed” by 90’s daily for his guitar playing. grunge star, Eddie He says he first got into his Vedder, the lead singer rock genre. of Pearl Jam. “I was 10 and I bought “’I know all the rules, ‘American Pie’ by Don but the rules don’t know McClean at the gas station,” me,’” Campbell said, Wilming said. picking out his favorite Forrest Campbell listens to Since the release of new music after growing up lyrics from the song. “American Pie,” music has around his father who is a Wilming says that he drastically changed. has come to realize that composer. Today, the music world all music, books, and offers pop artists such as movies are “dots.” Chris Brown, Carly Rae Jepsen, and Justin “When you look at them all the same, Bieber. we’re supposed to connect them,” Wilming Back in the day, Neil Young, Bruce said. “They’re a form of self-actualization.” Springsteen, Bob Dylan, and the Rolling For Wilming, singer/songwriters are the S t o n e s most admirable where a musicians. huge hit, “I appreciate and released wordsmiths,” CD’s far Wilming said. more often “I appreciate than the the ones who popular artists today. write their words so well.” “Back then, artists would release a new As music evolves, so do people, but the record every nine months or so,” Wilming ever changing genres never fail to express said. “Now, people wait as long as years the feelings that an individual cannot, bring for their favorite artists to release new people closer together, and allow people to material.” express their own creativity. Cook says she spreads her taste in music by making CD’s for people for fun, and even as gifts. “I like making mix CD’s for people
“For all your lies, you’re still very lovable.”
Stefanie Cook and Rodger Wilming show off their favorite musical items. Paige Berg, senior, said that music can have great affect on the personalities of people. “As a person, it has had a huge effect on the people I’m friends with as well,” Berg said. Since music has been around for many centuries, it has adequately changed and improved over time with the advances of new instruments and technology. Rodger Wilming, teacher and guitar club sponsor, is famous for his musical interests and interaction with his students. “I think today’s music is having the same effect on teens today as it did on me, but with one exception,” Wilming said. “Pop music today is entertaining. I may be wrong, but I think pop music of my day entertained and enlightened.” Senior Forrest Campbell believes that the effect of music greatly depends the genre of music. “A lot of people are creating music that is very materialistic,” Campbell said. For these people, music can be a tool to express their own feelings. “I think what makes a good musician is one who can convey the feelings that others can’t,” Campbell said. Berg said that the music she connects to, expresses feelings that she cannot in her own words. “I think we’re hardwired for it, for music,” Wilming said. “I think sometimes we lose that need for music during certain stages, but I think most people come back.” Cook says she appreciates people who can make a living expressing their thoughts. “However, it’s strange how an arrangement of sounds can be so pleasing to a person,” Cook said. Leading up to today’s music there were many one hit wonders, everlasting success stories, and a strong sense of inspiration.
“I know all the rules but the rules don’t know me.”
Dec. 14, 2012
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• Weird Fishes Arpeggi by Radiohead • Last Night by Motion City Soundtrack • Masters of War by Bob Dylan • Hurricane Drunk by Florence + The Machine • I Will Follow You Into the Dark by Death Cab For Cutie • Empire Ants by Gorillaz • Yesterday by Atmosphere • Guaranteed by Eddie Vedder • For Emma by Bon Iver • Spirits In the Night by Bruce Springsteen • Tree By the River by Iron & Wine • Wishlist by Pearl Jam • John Wayne Gacy Jr. by Sufjan Stevens • It’s Not A Fashion Statement, It’s A Deathwish by My Chemical Romance • Astroplane by Flying Lotus • The Harry Potter series by J.K. Rowling • Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen • The Hunger Games series by Suzanne Collins • The Mortal Instruments series by Casssandra Clare • Nineteen Minutes by Jodi Picoult • Unwind by Neal Shusterman • Along For the Ride by Sarah Dessen • I Like Candy series by Lauren Conrad • Uglies by Scott Westerfield • • • • • • • • • • • • •
The Outsiders Benji Schindler’s List Hardball Fight Club Hotrod Mulan Disturbia Salt Dumb and Dumber Anastasia Secret Window Tommy Boy
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American Horror Story Prison Break Seinfeld Once Upon A Time F.R.I.E.N.D.S That 70’s Show
Dec. 14, 2012
Entertainment
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Books, movies, TV enrich students’ lives by Brenna Bates Staff reporter
Growing up, books are something that children are surrounded by, whether or not they are understood. In kindergarten we read Dick and Jane books that helped develop reading skills early on. Now in high school students still find joy in free reading. However, a lot of students associate books with the endless informational text that are often used to cram before a semester exam. For senior Morgan Allen, reading is a fun, educational hobby. She first learned how to read when she started school, but surprisingly, she didn’t like it. “I actually hated reading when I first learned,” Allen said. “I was in seventh grade when I first took an interest in reading.” Unlike Allen, junior Bailey Carroll liked reading shortly after she learned. “I was probably like four when I learned how to read,” Carroll said. “I was in first or second grade when I took an interest in free reading.” Junior Mallory Weaver says that she always remembers reading. In elementary school, she would even wake up early to read. “I remember waking up an hour before I had to every morning so I could read my book,” Weaver said. Books have a way of creating their own utopia for those who wander into their pages. “I like that you can just go into another world that’s not like your own,” Allen said. Carroll believes that reading is a peaceful escape.
“It’s an escape from reality,” Carroll said. “It’s peaceful.” When it comes to classes, English and literature classes are something that are abundantly offered. “I just think that the school should put a bigger emphasis on reading,” Allen said. “A lot of kids use SparkNotes as their main source for reading, rather than actually reading the book.” Carroll thinks it would be fun to have a free reading class available. “I think it would be fun to have a class where you choose a book to read, and then write your own paper on it,” Carroll said. Although reading is an educational hobby, it can still be a fun way to pass the time. “Reading implores vocabulary,” Danielle Breier, English teacher said. “And it can have an overall positive influence on anyone’s academic life.” Aside from the educational influences reading has on a person, it can also provide inspirational, comical, serious and relatable quotes for a person to take interest in. “‘You have the emotional range of a teaspoon,” Weaver said of her favorite Harry Potter quote. Breier says her favorite quote is from a Shakespeare play, “Taming of the Shrew,” which she teaches in her class: “I burn, I pine, I perish!” Though reading is an acquired taste to some people, there are many students who find joy in reading. “Everyone can enjoy reading, they just have to find their book,” Breier said. Allen believes that everyone should free read. “There’s no reason you shouldn’t read,” Allen said.
Hollywood continuously offers the modern world endless number of movies that are released each year. Romantic movies, comedies, horror flicks, and action thrillers are some of the many movie genres available. As children the Disney movies are a must, from “Mulan,” to “Sleeping Beauty,” from “the Little Mermaid,” to “Finding Nemo.” Senior Kiara Moton says her favorite movies are of the “thriller” variety because she likes the action and suspense they offer. “I like the movies ‘Disturbia,’ and ‘Secret,’” Moton said. Although some people have a specific taste for one genre, others have a hands down favorite film that they continue to watch over and over. “One of my all time favorite movies is ‘Rain Man,’” Kelly Ager, psychology teacher, said. “I like the transformation Tom Cruise’s character makes from being a complete jerk to a kind-hearted person.” While a large number of movies are made solely for the purpose of human interest, there are a handful of movies that are made to portray a deeper meaning. “‘Hotrod,’” sophomore McKenna Earnest said, “it tells you to do what you want.” Ager believes that one movie that shows an important message is “Schindler’s List.” “The message is one of humanity,” Ager said. “Even though the movie is set in a specific time and place, the message is timeless. It shows many of society’s evils, and how they should not be forgotten.” Moton said that “Hardball” is also a movie of great importance. “It’s about this guy that teaches baseball to underprivileged kids,” Moton said. “At
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first, he’s just in it for the money, but then he grows attached to these kids. I think the message is that you can find joy and love in the most unexpected places.” Television shows are another way that American families spend their time. According to television statistics by the A.C. Nielson Co., the average American individual spends about 4 hours per day watching television. “They all explore different aspects of life in their perspectives. What’s interesting is the absurdity, because in real life, it’s all about moderation,” Ager said. “You get to live vicariously through other people. It’s an adventure without leaving the confines of your home, and it brings people together.” Moton said that for a long time her favorite show was “Prison Break.” “It goes into the life of a prisoner,” Moton said. “I like that the main character thinks of other people, not just himself. And he fights for what he believes in.” The show “American Horror Story” has been a hit recently, just starting it’s second season. “Grace is my favorite character,” Earnest said. “There’s a lot more to her story.” Currently in America, the most popular shows are “Big Bang Theory,” “Dancing With the Stars,” “Person of Interest,” and “The Voice.” “I think it’s brought the world a lot closer together, and will continue to do that. The most corrosive piece of technology that I’ve ever seen is called television but then, again, television, at its best, is magnificent,” according to BrainyQuote, Steve Jobs said.
Student Spotlight
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Cars spark creativity by Abbi Clevenger Staff reporter
Yingling has several car magazine subscriptions that he enjoys reading in his free time. The Savage Rivale Roadyacht GTS to an average person might not be the hottest four-door topless car in the world, but to junior Logan Yingling cars are more than just a moving object with four wheels. Aside from his sleeping and eating habits, Yingling found his interest in cars thanks to the inspiration from people in his life. “I believe cars are a mix of engineering and art,” Yingling said. Having been adopted, Yingling believes his artistic side comes naturally from his birth mother, but his engineering interests from his adopted dad. His subscriptions to car magazines are mainly to look at the pictures and are one of the many things he enjoys doing with
spare time. He also watches the popular show “Top Gear” on BBC mostly for entertainment but also the historical value of the information BBC broadcasts on the show. At car shows he does not just look for American muscle cars, but looks for a car that “does what it is designed and engineered to do.” “There are ‘gear heads,’ ‘grease monkeys,’ and ‘car guys.’ I am more of a car guy,” Yingling said. Specifically, British cars sparked Yingling’s interest over the summer. He recently was able to find a Land Rover for his mom. Apart from Land Rovers, he also likes Aston Martins and Bentleys. Owning a 2002 Honda Accord was not Yingling’s first choice, but unfortunately because he could only trade-in his mom’s old car at one dealership, it was the car he got stuck with. Apart from cars, Yingling is also an outdoorsman. Hiking near Lake Superior at Isle Royale was one of his favorite trips. Yingling started out carrying a 45-pound backpack filled with food and supplies for a hike that was mostly flat. “I would jump into water that was 40 degrees at the surface and then jump back out before I froze,” Yingling said. Yingling along with most people who visit the park has been able to hike the trails on more than one occasion. “We hike from camp to camp over a series of days and you are able to see moose walk through the camps,” Yingling said. Whether it is hiking through an island or flipping through a magazine, Yingling finds interest in a mix of things. He wants to attend a division 1 school and study engineering someday in hopes that his car interests and natural art abilities can drive his future.
High flying achievement by Abbi Clevenger Staff reporter
Picking a song, picking an outfit, picking a silk for the flag, and choreographing a dance proved truly difficult for indecisive senior Marie Hafner. In the end, this difficult preparation paid off when Hafner won fourth place with a division I rating at the state solo competitions (ISTDA) for color guard. Hafner has been performing her whole life, Marie Hafner considering she performed to the started dancing at glee version of a really young age, Michael Jackson’s but performing “Smooth Criminal.” alone was a totally different feeling. She started out on rifle, which she finds much harder than flag. After the first 45 seconds without a drop, she moved to flag, more confident than ever finishing without a drop. “I was so relieved and ecstatic, I thought I might cry. It was definitely one of the proudest moments of my life,” Hafner said. Hafner still cannot believe her hard work and dedication paid off, but she is also very proud of all the senior girls who also received division I ratings at solos this year. “My accomplishment is not just my own, but is shared with the other members of my team, and I couldn’t be more grateful
Musical talent emerges
Heard played and sang“Always” by Kristian Stanfill in the band room. Developing a love for singing came at a young age when she sang in the shower. Whether it is every morning in chorus or a Sunday church service, Shannon Heard shows dedication to her musical passion. Heard is a part of the band at Bettendorf Christian. She sometimes sings in the mornings at her church, breaks for lunch,
that. We all helped each other, whether that was giving suggestions for possible choreography, critiquing a routine, or just being there for the other person to have someone to perform for,” Hafner said. Hafner began color guard her sophomore year in the fall thanks to the passion her friend, Mackenzie Locey, showed towards the activity. It was a chance for her to continue dancing through high school. She loves the aspect of performing and the adrenaline it gives her to play to the crowd. “There’s just this thrill you get when you go out in front of other people and perform your heart out that just can’t be beat,” Hafner said. There is also a negative side to color guard, though. Hafner hates the bruises she gets from tossing around a 6-foot pole, a 37-inch rifle, and a 39-inch sabre into the air and hoping she can catch it. “I am not sure if trying a new toss makes me courageous or stupid, but the satisfaction you get when you finally get that toss or that choreography right is worth it,” Hafner said. Winter guard is Hafner’s favorite season. Not only because she gets to do some more difficult choreography thanks to her instructor, Sherry Stone, but she also gets really close to her teammates. “Being in guard is like having a crazy extended family,” Hafner said. The monopoly show her junior year was a favorite, because the music matched with specific spots on the board. The team was able to paint the tarp and backdrops making the show much more involved. Overall, Hafner has been really successful the past three years. Her mind barrier of getting over the fear of trying a new toss is her biggest goal for this next winter season. She continues to believe the success will continue as her team recently won state championships or ISTDA team competition.
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comes back to practice around two or three, and then sings at youth group. “I don’t really practice as much as I should,” Heard said. The young singer had an embarrassing moment while singing the song “Love Story” by Taylor Swift. Leading the song, Heard suddenly forgot to the words. “Everyone continued to sing except me,” Heard said. Although she has never taken a singing lesson outside of chorus, Heard continues to work on her singing skills. She tried out for Opus honor choir her freshman year, but as a sophomore was not quite prepared for all state auditions. Heard really enjoys contemporary Christian music and practices it most because she likes the harmonies. Although she does not have anyone she particularly looks up to, her parents are very supportive in getting her to certain events. Playing the piano is also a talent of Heard. Although she does not play as much anymore she occasionally accompanies her singing by playing. Alongside her musical talents Heard also cheers for football and competition. Her practices are a few times a week, but she also learns things on her own time. She is a 5’ base which makes her nervous before competition that she might drop someone.
Dec. 14, 2012
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The Growl is happy to have sponsors who help to support the journalism program. Sponsorships allow students to attend conferences to enhance their journalism skills and learn about trends in journalism. Anyone interested in sponsorships can contact the adviser at cking@ bettendorf.k12.ia.us. Sponsorships are available at three levels: Gold ($100); Silver ($50); and Bronze ($35).
Dec. 7, 2012
Features
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FBLA “dodges” prematurity By Emma Brindle Staff Reporter According to the March of Dimes, one who participated had a good time playing in eight babies is born premature. This dodgeball and watching others,” Vigen means they are born early, in several cases said. unable to make it on their own, and forced to stay in the ICU for an extended period of time before being able to go home. Members of FBLA centered their efforts on putting together a dodgeball tournament to raise money for the March of Dimes to ‘dodge prematurity’. This was the first ever dodgeball tournament that FBLA hosted and was a success. Senior Michael Vigen was in charge of setting up the tournament. “For it being the first time The boys took advantage of the opportunity the event was held, it seemed to to dress up in eccentric costumes for the turn out pretty well. Everyone tournament.
A lot of work went into setting up the as Patches O’Houlihan from the movie event. Vigen created the rules, dates, and “Dodgeball.” It was a great way to bring made a committee on his own to work on students together to have fun and raise planning the event. awareness for prematurity. As most events, The event raised $250. students got into the FBLA is pleased with the fun and excitement success. They hope to have to support the cause. better advertising next year Kelcie Eisbrener, to increase school wide who is also a member participation. Also, they hope of FBLA enjoyed to convey the message from participating in the March of Dimes more so than event. they did at the event. “ The most fun was “We will be doing it again definitely getting to next year and all the years to see the crazy outfits come! We hope that more and all of the teams wore. more students participate and It was cool to see the the event grows bigger every creativity,” Eisbrener year! It was such a blast!” The excitement was said. Vigen said. overwhelming when the With every event Overall, the event was a winners were recognized. there are always great new way to raise money difficult aspects. It was for a serious problem that a stressful process because there were not hits close to home for several families in any teams actually signed up until the last the community. FBLA greatly appreciated day. However, the tournament ended up everyone who came to the event and is coming together well with seven teams and anxious to see the tournament grow each several students who came to watch. year. Vigen enjoyed seeing Mr. Powell dressed
Fraternal twins: different looks, similar interests Twist or two creates by Sarah Dixon Staff Reporter
In the United States today, there are 4.5 million individual twins, making about 2 percent of the general population. 1.3 percent of the general population are fraternal twins. It is common that fraternal twins are not recognized as twins because they often don’t resemble each other. Seniors Keana and Kelsi Wethington, juniors Matt and Rachel Kettelkamp and sophomores Matt and Ryan Cassady are
Keana and Kelsi Wethington were always dressed up in matching outfits as infants. all fraternal twins walking the halls of school, even if some students find it hard to believe. “People think we’re lying, and that we’re just sisters,” Kelsi Wethington said. “People think he’s a different race and we’re not related because he’s so tan,” Rachel Kettelkamp said. “Some people have asked Rachel and me if we’re fraternal or identical twins,” Matt Kettelkamp said, “and I’m like,‘Are you serious?’” Sharing things creates an issue among many siblings, but for twins, sharing and participating in the same activities can be even harder. Matt Kettelkamp complains about how
Rachel steals his comfy sweatpants as Rachel tells him to stop taking her car without permission. Rachel and Matt both have their own cars, since Rachel likes to leave early for school while Matt waits until the last minute. “I don’t want to be in her car while she’s driving,” Matt Kettelkamp said. “I’m scared for my life.” “We have very similar personalities,” Rachel said. “We’re both really random and crazy.”
fun, unique braids By Brianna Klabunde Staff Reporter
“When I was six my grandma taught me how to braid with dandelion stems,” Olivia Solbrig, sophomore, said. Fishtail, French, Dutch, Crown, and Waterfall are just a few of the hundreds of possible hair braiding styles. The challenge is to learn how do them. “I’m always on the lookout for new braids,” Solbrig said. “My favorite is the Dutch which is basically an inside-out braid. It’s just different.” “My hair isn’t long enough to be in a
Rachel and Matt Kettelkamp get along most of the time, according to Rachel. “We have the same humor and personality,” Rachel said.
Kelsi and Keanna Wethington share everything: their room, car, and friends. Matt and Ryan Cassady share interests in sports such as baseball, basketball, and football. Along with disadvantages to having a twin, advantages come as well. “Yard work gets done faster,” Ryan said. “My favorite thing about being a twin is always having someone there to hang out with,” Kelsi said. “I like having a twin because I can always copy her homework,” Matt Kettelkamp said.
“It usually takes me about an hour of practice to learn a new braid,” Solbrig said. French braid. I remember trying to French braid my American Girl doll when I was little, but it didn’t work because it wasn’t real hair,” Amy Whiteman, senior, said. People get pretty creative when it comes to learning how to braid. Youtube videos, string, or even just friends to teach are all helpful when learning how to braid hair.
“My mom taught me when I was little and I practiced on Barbie dolls,” Maya Danner, sophomore, said. “I look at pictures online, like on Instagram, which sounds lame but that’s just what I do,” Whiteman said. “I tell myself if I can see it and figure it out in my head then I can do it on someone else’s hair.” For some Whiteman styles people braiding Madison Glanzis a go-to Guessford’s hair at hairstyle, for Thespian festival. others it’s just Whiteman enjoys fun. braiding other “I enjoy people’s hair doing my because sometimes friend’s hair. her hair is too short. Especially Fishtails because that’s the one I do the best,” Danner said. “My mom didn’t know how to do my hair when I was little, so I taught myself instead of doing a ponytail every day,” Solbrig said. Braiding is not only for fun either. “My friend’s parents hire me to do their kid’s hair for dances and things because I’m cheaper than a salon,” Solbrig said. “Braiding comes in handy when my I’m doing my friend’s hair,” Danner said. Although braiding may seem difficult, with a little dedication it could come in handy.
Features
10
Dec. 14, 2012
Seniors become one act directors By Brianna Klabunde Staff Reporter
so that I can get used to the experience,” Sarah Francisco, sophomore, said. Francisco was encouraged by her friends to try out for this festival. She has been in the chorus for “Anything Goes” and Every day after the ensemble for “By school a group of Candlelight”. So this is student heads to the her first time on stage fine arts hallway with lines. in preparation for “I’m looking forward their productions to getting to know this December. my cast and directors This grace period more. I’m excited between the play to learn more about and the musical acting,”Francisco said. is the perfect time “I like working with for drama kids and my cast the most, they first time actors are a lot of fun and we to take a chance always laugh during in one acts. These our rehearsals,” Ali short plays are Grampp said. directed by seniors Anyone who has with a script of “What I like most and least is that ever wanted to give every line is read off a Post-It Note their choice. acting a shot without as Some students so it requires the actor and actresses much pressure and less who have never to work even harder to portray their of a time commitment been involved in character because they can’t do would do well to give drama before take a ton through body movements,” one acts a try. this opportunity to Lockwood said. “I’ve been involved give it a shot in a in one acts since less menacing setting. freshman year so now that I am a senior it’s “Since this is my first real part in a my time to direct,” Dylana Lockwood said. production, I’m glad that it’s not a full play Lockwood’s actors are Kyle Perkins and
Sarah Francisco. Her one act is “Post-It’s; Notes on Marriage”. Lockwood as acted in “Guys and Dolls”, Pajama Game, Almost Maine, Anything Goes, By Candlelight, and previous one act festivals. “I chose this one act because it was done my freshman year, and it was what inspired me to get completely involved in theatre,” Lockwood said. “I was excited for the chance to be like Mrs. Howard,” Ali Grampp, senior director said. G r a m p p and Morgan Harksen are co-directing their one act. Grampp has participated in many past productions. One acts provide a unique opportunity for seniors to take a chance at directing instead of the usual director of school productions, Katherine Howard. “I like directing because it is so different from acting and doing it sheds light on
different aspects of theatre,” Lockwood said. “Directing is a lot of fun, but it is definitely harder than I thought it would be,” Grampp said. Not only is it a great learning experience for the directors, it’s also new to the actors involved. “I’m still as nervous as I would be around Mrs. Howard, but it’s different. I’m trying to make sure she doesn’t regret her decision,” Francisco said. “She’s a good director, though. She pays great attention to detail.” No matter how nervous the participants get, they seem to be just as excited. “I’m nervous already! And I’m just going to keep getting more and more nervous and excited until the show,” Francisco said. “I’m a little nervous about how the audience will react, but I trust that my cast will do a great job,” Grampp said. “I am looking forward to seeing the final product. I know we have all worked hard as actors and directors,” Lockwood said.
Fobair and Arner share similar heritage By Callie Heiderscheit Staff Reporter
were multiple children in each of her homes, and that in her second home she called her foster mother the Chinese Coincidences. Even the slightest equivalent of “Old Mama.” After parting ways with Fobair, encounters, just barely fit to be classified Arner moved to a home on a dairy farm. as such, draw attention. According to the paperwork of the social On July 26, in Nanning, China, a worker assigned to document her likes coincidence occurred. This one, however, and dislikes, as a child Arner was often was of a far greater magnitude. engrossed with television commercials. A girl, eventually to be called Anna Social workers’ visits to foster families Fobair, was born somewhere within the were necessary for the program to work as city on July 27. Four days later and only efficiently as it aimed to. a few blocks from Anna’s birthplace, a girl “Foster parents love their kids. Social who would be named Lauren Arner was workers come and figure out what they like born. so that their next family can care for them “Each family can only have one child as well as they can,” Fobair, junior, said. in China. They oftentimes will put the girl “They’re very poor people. But, they’re up for adoption because the boys can work very generous and hospitable,” Arner said. and stuff,” Arner, sophomore, said. The kids remained in homes like these In China, it is custom to leave the child until the age of two. It was then that the in a public place so that it can be found life choice of three hopeful parents-to-be and promptly taken to an adoption agency. altered the course of these two girls’ lives No personal information such as names, forever and left their futures even more ages, or addresses can accompany the intertwined. child. Fobair believes These three parents she was left on a street chose to adopt through corner, while Arner was the Holt Agency. picked up across from The process was an apartment building. grueling and extensive, From here, the demanding years two kids were first dedicated to organizing introduced to the Holt the proper legal International Adoption documentation. Agency. Arner and This was Arner’s foster family’s After years of Fobair both became a family room. There was no roof. preparation, Anna’s part of a collection of father Roger Fobair, around ten kids grouped and Lauren’s mother Judy Arner hopped together within the agency’s system. The on a flight prepared for their trek across children were given names to be identified the globe. Their travels were to Nanning, by, each having a similar first name and the China, where the pair would meet, for the same last name. Lauren was called Mei Li first time, their newest addition to their and Anna, Meilian. families. Both Fobair and Arner shared the However, the initial unification did not same foster family for their first year in go down the way one may have expected. the program. Following that first year, “We were all crying!” Fobair said. “Here however, the kids were separated. Anna were our new parents meeting us for the bounced around in two or three different first time, and almost all of the kids were families. She remembers only that there
sitting there crying.” It was probably this unusual closeness When the new families embarked on that led the girls to become so close, and their two week trip of China following remain that way into their future. their union, the issues only continued. “The adoption group would all do “We all got sick, too. Our foster homes different little things for a while. We used didn’t have air conditioning. We’d never to have holiday parties and stuff. We don’t been in it in our lives. So when we’d go to keep in touch anymore. Well, besides me all of the tourist attractions in Hong Kong and Anna,” Arner said. and the hotels we’d However, as the girls’ stayed in, we got friendship grew, it was sick from the air not because of events like conditioning,” said this. Their bond’s growth Fobair. came from their numerous Before beginning shared interest both in and the journey to their out of school. new homes, the “We did the musical girls had one last together, show choir, and visit with their tennis,” Arner said. Arner and Fobair make crafts foster parents. “I made her do marching together at age five on Arner’s Fobair remembers band!” Fobair said. birthday. Since their adoption, only her foster The girls don’t plan for they haven’t missed a birthday. mother giving her their friendship to end a teddy bear and anytime soon. soccer ball that she had played with during “Hopefully our friendship lasts forever. her stay. Arner recalls her foster mother We’ll always find time to talk. We spend offering gifts to her mother before their way too much time together as it is. We departure. finish each other’s sentences,” Arner said. “My mom kept trying to turn the gifts “And I’ll make sure to come back to visit down, because my foster mother was so from college,” Fobair, who chose to start poor, but not accepting the gifts would school a year before Arner, said. have been considered rude,” Arner said. “We’re both only-childs. I think we After the last visit, the girls boarded consider each other sisters,” Arner said a plane where they sped towards a However, an extraordinary friendship completely different life with only the and a unique cultural past are not the only slightest memories to accompany the idea thing the girls share. The both have a of their old life. similar desire to one day learn more about “I only remember a few really little their vastly unfamiliar pasts. things. They used to take me to the beach, I “We don’t know anything about our think. I have this one memory of me sitting parents. One day I hope to find at least a in the basket of bike as a little kid,” Arner name of one of my relatives. If possible, said. I’d like to even meet one,” Arner said. During the flight, the oddity of the “Also, being adopted means we have situation became apparent to both families. a brother or sister out there. Probably a Two different families, living within brother,” Fobair said. minutes of each other, had just traveled Whether Arner and Fobair ever find halfway across the world to retrieve their their unkown siblings, they will always newly adopted children who had also lived consider themselves sisters. only minutes from each other.
Sports
Dec. 14, 2012
11
NFL teams prepare for playoffs By Mitch Parker Sports Editor
Christmas is right around the corner, and with the joy of the holiday season comes that pinnacle of the American football tradition, the NFL playoffs. Here are my picks for the teams that will make the playoffs, along with my Super Bowl prediction.
NFC #1 seed (bye): Atlanta Falcons The Falcons have been almost flawless throughout the regular season with only one hiccup against the Saints, blemishing their otherwise perfect record. Matt Ryan and the offense are firing on all cylinders. However, their defense is inconsistent and they tend to play down to the level of their opponent. Furthermore, if past seasons are any indication, they could struggle in the playoffs. #2 seed (bye): San Francisco 49ers The 49ers combine one of the best rushing attacks in the league with a stellar defense, both important tools for a deep playoff run. However, the quarterback situation could become dicey if Colin Kaepernick’s incredible production suddenly declines. All in all, though, the 49ers are good enough to make a Super Bowl run. #3 seed: Chicago Bears When Cutler, Forte, and the defense are all healthy the Bears a tough team to beat. The problem for the Bears is that all three never seem to be healthy at the same time. Combine this with the fact that the Bears
have struggled against good teams in the regular season and this could be a rough playoffs for the franchise.
#4 seed: New York Giants If we’ve learned one thing about the Giants and Eli Manning throughout past seasons, it’s this: Never count them out. Yes, they have been wildly inconsistent all season. But it always seems as if the defending champs save a little extra for the playoffs. Look for them to be a dark horse this year. #5 seed: Green Bay Packers Like the Giants, the Packers are a very good team that has underachieved this year. But like Eli, Aaron Rodgers is a proven playoff competitor, the team has lots of big game experience, and they always seem to perform against good teams. If the Pack can solve their offensive line issues, they could make a run to the NFC championship and beyond. #6 seed: Tampa Bay Buccaneers The Bucs have had a great year. Josh Freeman has been solid, and rookie running back Doug Martin has been a revelation. However, they are still young and the pass defense has been woefully inadequate. The Bucs will sneak into the playoffs, but won’t get out of the wild card round.
AFC #1 seed (bye): Houston Texans The Texans have one of the best rushing attacks in the NFL, led by Arian Foster, combined with the league’s second best rush defense. Matt Schaub has been solid, as has the pass defense. However, a loss to Green Bay and recent struggles against Jacksonville and Detroit could indicate
that the Texans are not as invincible as their early results showed. They are good enough to go far in the playoffs, but be on upset alert if they end up playing a team like New England.
#2 seed (bye): Denver Broncos Tim Tebow who? Peyton Manning comes back into the league after a year and a major neck surgery, yet somehow is still an MVP candidate. And with a stellar defense and an impressive run of six straight wins, Broncos fans have plenty to be excited about as the playoffs loom nearer. I predict the Broncos to contend for the Super Bowl no matter where they are seeded. #3 seed: New England Patriots The Patriots’ offense ranks fourth and sixth in rushing and passing yards per game, respectively, and is the only offense of any team that is averaging more than 30 points a game. The defense is good enough to make an extended playoff run, and they have a Hall of Fame quarterback in Tom Brady who is proven in the playoffs. Look out, Houston. #4 seed: Baltimore Ravens The Ravens have the second best record in the AFC through Week 13. Joe Flacco is finally having a great year, and the defense is pretty good. However, they have a tough schedule remaining that includes Denver, New York, Pittsburgh, and Cincinnati. They are good, but it is tough for me to see them beating the Broncos, Texans, or Pats. #5 seed: Indianapolis Colts Andrew Luck has greatly exceeded anyone’s expectations, and in him the Colts franchise has found a quarterback who could win them a title somewhere down the road. But Luck is still young and the team has not caught up to his level of play yet, so making the playoffs will be consid-
ered a success for the Colts. However, put the right pieces around Luck and the Colts will be a contender in the future. #6 seed: Cincinnati Bengals The Bengals are the biggest overachievers of the year. They are currently riding a three game win streak in which they have beaten teams by an average of 21 points, and are looking more and more like a playoff team. I believe they will sneak in and steal the second wild card spot from the Steelers. AFC Championship: Broncos beat Patriots, 35-31. In this battle of two Hall of Fame quarterbacks, Peyton and the Broncos aerial attack will overwhelm a Patriots pass defense that ranks among the five worst in the league. NFC Championship: Packers beat Falcons, 20-14. The Packers are a gutsy pick, but on the back of Aaron Rodgers they will make a deep playoff run and prove too much for a solid but unpredictable Falcons team.
Super Bowl: Broncos over Packers, 3128. Super Bowl LXXVIII will be a tense, high scoring affair as one of the best offensive minds in football in Peyton Manning dukes it out with one of the greatest playoff quarterbacks of the last 20 years in Rodgers. In the end, however, the Broncos defense is much better than the Packer’s. The game will come down to the wire, with the Broncos getting a late fourth quarter stop before Manning leads them on a game winning drive to clinch his second title.
Fall athletes gear up for winter season workouts. It was tough, but I’m glad I didn’t have an extended break to get out of shape,” Westerkamp said. In order to quickly get into shape for swimming following months of football practices, Westerkamp did lots of physical training and more reps in the weight room in order to build up his endurance. “Swimming takes more endurance than football. In swimming you swim long races without a lot of oxygen, but football is more short bursts, “Westerkamp said. “It definitely takes work to get in shape for swimming after doing football.” Like Westerkamp, junior Liz Finn had only a couple days to transition from volleyball to basketball. Collins looks for a teamate to pass However, she didn’t the ball to during an indoor soccer mind not getting a game. After cross country is over, break. Since she was Collins immediately begins playing already in shape and motivated from volindoor soccer at the Rivers Edge leyball, going into in downtown Davenport. basketball was not as difficult as it would
By Mitch Parker Sports Editor
For most Bettendorf athletes, the conclusion of the fall sports season means extra free time. Time to catch up on homework, hang out with friends, or just relax. However, certain athletes must transition straight from one sport to the next with no break, which is the ultimate test of endurance and focus. Senior Karson Westerkamp is one such athlete. The football season concluded at the end of October, but instead of getting time off, Westerkamp had to jump right into the pool for boys swimming. “I got a couple days, basically one weekend, of no workouts before I had to start swimming
be after a few weeks’ layoff. However, the transition wasn’t easy. “In volleyball you don’t run around as much, but in basketball you get tired a lot quicker. It takes a lot of running to get in basketball shape,” Finn said. Senior Bryan Collins also transitioned from fall cross country straight into a winter sport.
While Collins likes being a part of the cross country team, soccer is his favorite sport. He has been playing from age six and is a three year varsity player for the high school team. Soccer is a team sport, while cross country is more focused on individual performance. The team aspect of soccer, along with how long Collins has been playing, makes it much more enjoyable to him than cross country. This love of soccer is what makes it easy for him to transition so quickly from cross country to soccer. “I’d rather just jump right into soccer because I love it so much. If I had to pick between the two sports, I would definitely pick soccer, no questions asked,” Collins said. All in all, the transition Every year Finn must transition from volleyball to straight from a fall sport to basketball to soccer without a break. “I don’t mind a winter sport is a difficult it because you’re already in shape and motivated switch. However, athletes from each sport,” Finn said. such as Westerkamp, Finn, and Collins feel that it is However, his winter sport is not through much easier to transition from one sport to the school. Collins participates in winter the next rather than try to get re-motivated indoor soccer at the River Edges Ice Arena after an extended break. in downtown Davenport.
Holiday Happenings
Dec. 14, 2012
12
No sun but still fun By Anna Willey Staff Reporter
As winter break approaches, so does boredom. Break is great, don’t get me wrong, but at some point within those 12.5 days you might find yourself sitting around doing nothing. When this happens, all you will have to do is pull out your December issue of the Growl to find some fun activities to do! You’ll be glad you looked!
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Although snow is pretty from inside a building, often times it’s more fun when you are in it. Sledding is a fun activity that you don’t have to be good at to do. Golf courses, the Band Shell, and the back of Pleasant View elementary school are all spots that have a great hill to sled down. For those of us who are a little bit more coordinated, snowboarding is fun too. This break, gather your friends up, head to a destination, and let the fun begin. Don’t forget your hat and gloves!
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Lives saved with gifts of blood lost,” said Angela Reese, donor relations their blood saved her life,” Hill said. consultant for the Mississippi Valley Blood Similar to Wells, Hannah Naylor gave Center. blood for the Doing the math, first time at the about 3,000 pints blood drive of blood are lost because she Multiple holidays mean many gifts for in those three knows it’s the people across the nation. Barbies, cars, holidays, which right thing to clothes, shoes, sports equipment, and all occur within do. There are Legos sales all over the country increase two months of so many unique during the holidays. So does the demand each other. Giving reasons for for blood. blood around these donating blood, “It’s not so much dates becomes but one reason that there are more necessary. that sits right at accidents around the “I give blood the top of the holiday. The biggest so that I can Carrie Wells prepares herself before being list is the fact part is that we see potentially save that blood is stuck by the needle. donations decrease three people’s blood. around holidays such lives. It’s a “Besides as Thanksgiving, really good feeling inside knowing passing life and health on to someone, Christmas, and I’m helping people who can’t survive people forget that there is no substitute or New Year’s. Blood without it,”said Carrie Wells, a blood product that can be used in place of blood,” centers are closed on donor at the last blood drive. Reese said. these specific days Hitting a little bit closer to home, However, giving blood isn’t always which means about Angela Reese Baylor Hill gives blood for a different peachy. For almost all high school students, 1,000 pints of blood, reason. the needle is the scariest part. For Naylor, what would be a “My aunt got in a car accident and finding a vein was the problem. Despite all day’s normal amount of blood received, is needed blood badly. People who donated of the fears that come with giving, students By Anna Willey Staff Reporter
know that the outcome is greater than the temporary pain of being stuck with a large needle. “I look away!” Hill said. With the need for blood increasing in the next month, the blood center needs people to step up. Although the recipient of the blood is unknown to the donor, the gift is greatly appreciated. This holiday season when gifts are being given and received; remember that all it takes is a half an hour to give someone the greatest gift of all, the gift of life.
Isabella Collins comforts Hannah Naylor while workers search for a vein in her arm.