December Growl

The Growl

Bettendorf High School

Friday, Dec. 12, 2014

Vol. 51 Issue 3

Nat’l Merit scholars talk about PSAT

by Melissa Weinstein Staff Reporter

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hree students received recognition from the National Merit Scholarship Corporation. Seniors Lauren Young and Josh Kinyon were named semifinalists, and senior Blake Wallace received a letter of commendation for their scores on the 2013 PSAT. Semifinalists are the highest scoring entrants in each state, while commended students make up a larger percentage of students who take the PSAT. According to the National Merit Scholarship Corporation, commended students are named based on a nationally applied selection index score that can vary annually.

Semifinalists have the opportunity to become finalists which allows them the chance to receive a National Merit scholarship. To become a finalist, semifinalists must take the SAT and meet a variety of requirements including high academic standards.

“The PSAT is basically a less scary version of the SAT, so it is good practice,” Young said.

Young’s older brother was a Commended Student, so her family already had knowledge about the National Merit Scholarship Corporation. For Kinyon and Wallace, their recognition is a first for their families.

The night before the PSAT, Kinyon read a study book for a few hours to prepare while Wallace always avoids studying for standardized tests.

“It’s possible I was feeling uncharacteristically motivated the night

Kinyon and Young have been named semifinalists, and Wallace (far right) has been recognized as a commended student. “Get a lot of sleep the night before and eat a good breakfast. The important thing is to not stress about the exam. It doesn’t determine your entire future,” Young said. before, but I don’t remember studying at all,” Young said.

To prepare for the test, Wallace suggests getting a good night’s sleep.

“My advice is that you should take plenty of practice tests before the actual test. Taking practice tests is the best way to prepare. You should only use College Board preparation materials. It is the only official SAT and PSAT studying materials because it uses actual previous SAT tests,” Kinyon said.

Young agrees that practice tests are the most effective method of studying.

“They’re usually online so you don’t have to spend money on one of those fancy books,” Young said.

When taking standardized tests, Kinyon and Wallace enjoy answering the math questions.

“It is very concrete and rarely open to interpretation,” Kinyon said.

Math is Young’s least favorite subject on standardized tests.

“They don’t give you enough time unless you’re a human calculator. Maybe I’m just bad at math or bitter because that’s what brings down my test scores. I’m going to blame it on the people that write the questions,” Young said.

She prefers questions that include graphs or charts because prior knowledge on the subject is not needed.

“I also like the English questions where

you pick what word goes in a sentence because you can usually choose whichever sounds right by reading it in your head with each option,” Young said.

“My favorite questions are the easy questions,” Wallace said.

Though Kinyon and Young will not find out if they are finalists until February, they, along with Wallace, have received various scholarships for their academic achievements. Should Kinyon and Young be named finalists, they are not guaranteed a scholarship from the National Merit Scholarship Corporation.

“If I am a finalist I have to go to a school that gives money to National Merit Finalists because some don’t. Places like ISU and Nebraska give full rides,” Young said.

Kinyon plans to go to a four-year university to study mathematics.

“My top choice is Harvard,” Kinyon said.

Young also plans to attend a four-year university preferably on the coast, but she has yet to decide on a major. Once she finishes colleges, Young will “make bank” and get a puppy.

“I will be going to the University of Iowa to get a degree in chemical engineering,” Wallace said.

Young encourages every junior to take the PSAT. “There’s really no drawback; all you have to do is signup and then take a test.

I think the PSAT might be on a school day so you’d get to miss school which is also a plus. If you do well on the PSAT, you can get to go to college essentially for free in some cases, so this one test could save you thousands of dollars. Your parents may thank you,” Young said.

FBLA brings business back to Bett

by Hannah Chin Staff Reporter

in a midwest state. In past school years, most Bettendorf students have not attended the NFLC due to the ettendorf FBLA is back this lengthy travel time. school year and stronger than ever.

“This was my first conference with Throughout the first semester, the Bettendorf FBLA. It was cool to FBLA officer team and members have meet people from regional chapters. been on the grind, working to fundraise I really understand now why people for competitions, volunteering to help love FBLA. I also enjoyed going to the school community, and learning the Mall of America with Bettendorf about practicing effective business FBLA,” said freshman Mason Chin. techniques through conference NFLC hosts thousands of students participation. every year and is known for its Most recently, the club traveled keynote speakers at opening session. to Des Moines for the United Fall Alex Kenyon, Lauren Hoffman, Bryanna Garard, Hannah Chin, Lexi Mendosa, Brittany “As an advisor, I had the ability Leadership Conference (UFLC) and Carlson, Tori Tappa, Megan McQuillen, Malorie Garza and Grace McGee. to drop in on several informational to Minneapolis, Minnesota, for the sessions throughout the weekend.

National Fall Leadership Conference.

I attended a workshop about a high “UFLC was an amazing experience. school business leadership class that Since the conference is only held every entrepreneurship, and college searching. members an edge as they enter the next we are looking to implement at BHS next four years, it was my only chance to attend UFLC included not only Iowa FBLA phases of their lives,” said business teacher school year. I also talked with other FBLA UFLC. I loved meeting new friends and chapters, but also other organizations Sarah Roeder. chapters about their fundraising, social, spending quality time with Bettendorf such as Business Professionals of America Members who attended this conference and competition ideas and visited vendors FBLA in Des Moines,” junior Bryanna (BPA) and Distributive Education Clubs of had a unique opportunity to build booths,” Roeder said.

Garard said. relationships with students who are Bettendorf FBLA is currently working America (DECA).

Students and advisors had the chance “Networking is an extremely important interested in similar educational programs, on its Business Achievement Awards and to network with business professionals quality for young people to have. The but are not members of FBLA. competition projects for state in March. and educate themselves about the ability to confidently communicate with Unlike previous years, the National Fall Contact a business department teacher or a fundamentals of leadership, volunteering, new people is a skill that will give FBLA Leadership Conference (NFLC) was held FBLA member for more information.

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02 Opinion

Why grades matter... and why they don’t

Dec. 12, 2014

The Growl Editorial

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ello? Freshmen? Are you there? It’s me, a regretful senior who took nothing seriously when I was your age, many, many years back. Okay, only like three, but who’s counting? Anyway, I’d like to tell you something that I wish someone would have told me. Grades don’t matter.

Exaggerating my last statement, I’ll rephrase. Grades are not everything. I repeat, grades are not everything. Wow! What a revelation! I know! Now for some of you who have already slacked your first semester or for those of you who have been slacking for the past seven semesters, you may have already gotten the memo: we’re here to learn and get good grades. But years from now, will that C in English 9 matter? Probably not.

Now I am not, in any way, telling you

to get bad grades. I want you to do the best that you can and try your hardest, but if I’ve learned anything thus far into my senior year, it’s that all of my stressing over exams, over projects, and over how to organize my time, it doesn’t matter.

To get into any public university in the state of Iowa, a student must have a Regent Admission Index (RIA) score of at least 245. This score is based on a student’s ACT/SAT test score, high school rank, GPA, and number of completed courses.

The ACT test score is multiplied twice, added to the high school rank, 20 times the GPA, and five times the number of core classes completed.

On top of that, most schools like University of Iowa and Iowa State accept ACT scores of around 20. Not saying that it is easy to get into a public university… but it is kind of easy.

Friendzoned: the bitter truth

by Hannah Chin Staff Reporter

How does one escape from the friendzone madness?

To answer these questions, I turned to relationship experts and sappy, romantic comedies on Netflix for advice.

Most of my sources believe that men and women can only be friends if both parties fully friendzone each other. The line between friendship and relationship is Photo credit: valleymagazinepsu.com/how-to-handle-being-friend-zoned obviously definite, but as long as he one word that no one ever wants to boundaries are established mutually, there hear in a relationship: Friendzoned. Even should be few issues. the most romantic of love stories almost Although it is sometimes rare to find always start with making the push through two friends who friendzone each other, it the ugly friendzone. is possible.

For example, on the beloved hit The trek out of the friendzone seems to television series, “Friends,” one of the be much more complicated than I expected. main characters, Ross Geller, gets deep Time is the most important tool to use when into the friendzone with his best friend, it comes to pushing out of the friendzone.

Rachel Green.

Sudden changes in a relationship can be Throughout the show, Ross and costly and ruin any chances of moving Rachel go through a roller coaster of forward. Taking your time and approaching emotional issues as they experience many the idea of a relationship at a slower pace monumental life marks such as acquiring a could save you from potential heartbreak. dream job, moving to another country, and Each friendship is different, so the ultimate the birth of a child. However, despite all decision is based upon what you think will odds, Ross and Rachel fall in love. be best for you and your special friend in Personally, I have been a victim and the long run. have fallen into the bottomless pit called I guess whatever happens, happens when the friendzone. As a friendship builds and it comes to being in the friendzone. One people grow closer, it is only natural that must trust his or her instincts and do what more feelings evolve. they think will make them happy.

However, I must question; Is there any Although one thing is for certain about possible way that men and women can the friendzone: you will always have a truly be close friends without feelings or friend no matter what the circumstances complications? Where is the line drawn are. between friendship and relationship?

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I know that not all of you are aiming to go to a college in Iowa. Most out of state public schools require about the same standards and only the tuition fees will be higher. To attend Scott Community College, students just need to set up an account online.

All this information I learned my junior year when I really started picking up for all my slacking from years past. Coming out of my freshman year, I had a nice and solid 2.6 GPA. Not to say that that is a bad GPA, but I knew I could achieve more. I learned that if I paid more attention in class, instead of taking a daily snooze, and that if I did my homework, my grades would improve tremendously! And with zero effort! I promise!

You see, teachers are not out to get you.

They do not want to see you fail, and they’re here to help. It’s their job. Having prep periods, and time available before and after school, just set up a time with your teacher to make up missing assignments, take missing tests, and even get some extra help with a topic you’re struggling with.

Just stop stressing.

I can tell you from experience, that I have

made many mistakes in high school, and you will, too. No doubt. Just please, do not let one of your mistakes be that you didn’t put enough effort into your grades and do not let another of your mistakes be that you worked yourself to death over your grades.

High school is an opportunity to not only learn, but to grow into who you’d like to be. To find yourself within classes that bore you to death or fascinate your best dreams. High school is a chance to be someone that you want to be, and it acts a prerequisite to the rest of your life.

Whether you make it to Harvard, Iowa State, Scott, or no college at all, life is waiting for you. But do not, I repeat, do not waste it by torturing yourself over grades that you will not even remember you got years from now. Grades matter, school matters, but it’s not everything.

So, dear freshmen, dear sophomores, dear juniors, and dear fellow seniors, relax, life is happening and make sure you enjoy it.

Sincerely, a regretful senior

How to not get sick in 5 easy steps in the winter

by Christine Vincent Staff Reporter 1. Wash your hands consistently—By the time that kids reach high school, you would think that they’d have this figured out. But somehow, some of us seem to have forgotten what Scrubby Bear taught us in kindergarten: wash your hands after going to the bathroom and before eating food every time. Yes, every single time.

2. Get enough s l e e p — L e t ’s be honest, we know you’re not staying up late to do homework on that iPad of yours. Put the Netflix and Snapchat away because sleep is one of the most important factors in staying well. The cute boy or girl can wait until the morning.

3. Encourage your sick friends to stay home—Nothing is more annoying than

the one kid who sniffs his way through the entire 90-minute test. And nothing gets you sick faster than being around contaminated people. So encourage your sick friends to keep their distance until they’re well again.

4. Don’t share food or drinks—We get it, high schoolers are poor. But spending the extra $4 to get your own soda at the movies may keep you from getting mono. The choice is yours.

5. Keep PDA to a minimum—Although the English hallways can be incredibly romantic, swapping spit is a fast way to spread germs, and holding hands is just as dangerous.

How do you know your boyfriend didn’t wipe his nose 30 seconds ago, spreading his germs all over your fingers?

Although these seem like common sense, it’s amazing how clueless some high schoolers can be. Carelessness on your part leads to the spreading of viruses. So do us all a favor, and follow these tips.

Growl Staff Editors: Brett Gaydos, Alex Connor Reporters and Photographers: Thomas Byrne, Hannah Chin, Haidyn Hank, Dajae Hanson, Ashley Hertter, Christine Vincent, Melissa Weinstein..

Columnist: Alex Connor. bettgrowl.com Editors: Hannah Chin, Christine Vincent.

Adviser: Connie King.

Mascot: Newsie.

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Visit us at bettgrowl.com.

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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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Dec. 12, 2014

Features

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Early grads enjoy life after school

by Alex Connor Newspaper Co-Editor

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ffering many opportunities throughout high school, BHS allows students to take college credit courses starting their sophomore year. This chance to get ahead in their education is an opportunity that many students accept by taking AP courses, dual-credit courses, and Scott Community college courses while still being a considered high school student The greatest opportunity that BHS offers, however, is the chance to graduate early. Some students, graduating at the end of their junior year, get a chance to start their adult life before the rest of their class.

Students may graduate early at the end of their first, second, and third quarter of senior year.

BHS graduate, Sydney Wientjes, decided to graduate at the end of her first quarter.

At the age of 16, in the middle of her junior year, Wientjes decided that graduating early was the right choice for her.

“I figured out what classes I needed to finish my first quarter and set up my schedule the end of the year,” Wientjes said.

Planning on attending the University of

Wyoming next fall, Wientjes decided to take some general college classes to get them out of the way for next year.

Early graduates can still go to Prom with their class and walk across the stage at graduation.

“It’s very relieving, I can actually spend time working and focusing on other things outside of the small high school bubble,” said Wientjes.

Wientjes competes and rides horses in her free time and works two jobs on top of her extracurriculars. She says that it has improved her life thus far in that she feels that “my high school duty has been fulfilled and I’ve run my course, and now I can focus on what the next steps are in my life.”

Although scary, graduating early involves pros such as a more stress-free lifestyle, more time for friends and family,

and makes taking the next steps in life a less time balancing concern.

“Cons: gets you out of the habit of studying, you may feel left out a little from the regular, everyday social exchanges you experience in high school,” Wientjes said.

This chance to move forward provides both unique and scary opportunities for students who may or may not want to finish out their senior year at BHS. If graduating early is the decision that one wants to make, make sure to keep in touch with the guidance counselors to make sure all required courses are taken.

By senior year, most students only need to take a gym and English credit.

“If you aren’t wrapped up in sports or clubs through the school, by all means, do it! You can still hang out with friends, attend school activities, go to prom, and walk with your class,” Wientjes said.

Volunteering opportunities available Senior buys,

by Christine Vincent Staff Reporter

While service hours are not required

for graduation at BHS, many students find it fulfilling to donate their time to a charitable cause. Around the holidays, many may feel compelled to volunteer but are unsure where to start. These are just a few opportunities that exist within our community.

Soup kitchens:

Cafe on Vine: A soup kitchen that opened its doors in 2007, Cafe on Vine serves a lunchtime meal every day of the year. Since its beginning, it has served over 300,000 meals. Cafe on Vine seeks volunteers, along with food and cash donations. For more information, call (563)-324-4472.

King’s Harvest: A growing ministry to meet the community’s needs, King’s Harvest has grown from a soup kitchen that serves three meals a week,

to include a grocery giveaway site, a pet ministry, and a shelter for men, women and children. They seek monetary donations, winter clothing, pet care items, and volunteers. For more information, call (563)-570-4536.

Holiday opportunities:

Quad Cities Snow Angels: Volunteers looking to help the elderly during this winter season can sign up to be a Snow Angel. The Angels are assigned a Davenport home, at which they will shovel the sidewalks every time it snows.

Volunteers are asked to commit for the entire season. If a volunteer cannot make such a large commitment, he or she can be put on a list to be called as needed. For more information, call (563)-888-3201.

Salvation Army Red Kettle Campaign: Raising money for children who are in need of Christmas presents, the Salvation Army provides red kettles, bells and aprons to anyone who is willing to help them fundraise. There are more than 20 sites within Bettendorf and Davenport

where these bells can be heard. To sign up for a two hour shift, visit ringbells.org or call (563)-570-2072.

Bettendorf opportunities:

After school program: An after school program for grades 2-5 is held on Tuesdays and Thursdays at all Bettendorf elementary schools. From 3:20-4:30, volunteers help facilitate hands on activities, to educate students through arts, community service, and fun. For more information, contact Nancy Herrin, Volunteer Program Coordinator at (563)359-3681.

WRAP: The World Readiness After School Program is offered at Neil Armstrong Elementary School on Tuesdays and Thursdays. From 3:30-4:15, high schoolers facilitate activities to teach 4th and 5th graders basic French or Spanish.

With the help of their world language teachers, BHS students create lesson plans and educate the children at Armstrong. For more information, see Ms. Conrad in D268 or Mr. Hopkins in D265.

Artists display talent in school hallways

by Dajae Hanson Staff Reporter

“I

t has been around since before I was here,” Mr. Solbrig said.

The Art Club at BHS was designed to provide students with extra help with art and an after school activity. It also gives students who did not have an art class an opportunity to participate in art activities.

There are many fun activities included such as Halloween parties and more.

Their art is displayed all around BHS. “I was one of the three students that helped paint the Bulldog that is displayed outside of the school,” Olivia Solbrig said.

Club members help other groups and clubs with art if needed, including creating backdrops, decorations, and student costumes. They also help some of the floats in the homecoming parade.

In addition, the Art Club created the three-dimensional artwork in the language arts hallway.

The students meet every Thursday in Solbrig’s room, E103. If there are projects that students are working on, they may meet more often during the week. There are about 12 regular members attending. It varies depending on the activities that the students are involved in.

The club meets all year so that students can come and go. Anyone interested can join at any time by contacting Solbrig or Mrs. Puglisi.

sells cars

by Brett Gaydos Newspaper Co-Editor When walking through the parking lot, there are many different kinds of cars.

Students drive every kind of vehicle from a truck to a smart car.

For senior Corbin Nichols, buying cars and upgrading is what helps him drive some of the nicest cars on the streets.

Nichols has had a Jeep Wrangler, Mazda RX8, Nissan 350, Ford Mustang and a Toyota Tundra.

“I buy and sell them for more than I bought them for,” Nichols said.

This helps him buy his next car and his parents usually pitch in half for what the next car costs. This process helps him upgrade every time.

“I always keep my eyes open for a good deal and talk them down even more because more often than not people are wanting to get the car off because they have had it for awhile,” Nichols said. “Offering cash helps.”

When looking over a car that could be purchased, no aspect can be overlooked.

Looking for every scratch and bump can be the difference between buying the car for thousands of dollars less.

“You inspect every aspect of the car, check for rust, engine corrosion or a broken or squeaky interior,” Nichols said. ”Basically make them think you know more about the car than they do.”

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Dec. 12, 2014

GETTING RID GRAY OF THE Feature

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by Alex Connor Newspaper Co-Editor

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“I cannot put into words the fear that goes through one’s body at the time of the exam. It is unlike any other I have ever had before. The shame that goes along with the assault is more than one could imagine.”

Sexual assault victims are not the ones to blame O

ne in five women will be sexually assaulted during their college career. Of the previous assaults, only 12 percent are reported. Four in every 100 men will be assaulted, as well.

Only a fraction of these victims will see their assaulters punished, based on a report by whitehouse.gov.

Associated with rape is shame, and this shame is developed from years of “slut shaming,” ignorance, and rape culture boiling in society.

“Rape culture” is a cultural bias based on the tendency to believe that rape is wrong, but to place fault on the victim based on gender and sexuality that normalizes the abuse.

Rape culture, induced by years and years of mistreatment in the justice, education, and mental health systems, has created a stereotype that shifts blame away from the perpetrator and towards the victim.

In many cases, rape is rationalized because of clothing choices, solitude, and most often, intoxication of the victim.

Teaching students to avoid situations that they can get raped in moves away from rape culture. But teaching the idea that avoiding empty parking lots at night will prevent rapes, the burden of prevention is on the victim. “[It is a] crime that feeds on secrecy,” said Jill Montgomery, educator at BHS. Montgomery became involved in the topic about three years ago when the topic hit home. Having both friends and family members be victims of sexual abuse has motivated Montgomery to take a very active role in the sexual assault community.

Attending local and out-of-state conferences, starting a Facebook page called “Break the Silence” about these abuses and their outcomes, such as depression and PTSD, along with encouraging and uplifting quotes, Montgomery has become informed and well-read on the topic at hand.

“We as a society jump on ‘we don’t want to hear it’ because who is going to be victimized but someone who is

trusting?” Montgomery said.

Often, because of the lack of education, many rapists are unaware that the act they committed was even rape.

Sexual assault consists of “rape or attempted rape, touching your body or making you touch someone else’s, incest or sexual contact with a child, someone watching or photographing you in sexual situations, someone exposing his or her body to you,” as defined by emedicinehealth. com, is often argued about in today’s societies.

For example, a rape survivor from Columbia University, Emma Sulkowicz, fights her battle by carrying a 20-pound mattress with her everywhere until she graduates or until her rapist is expelled from campus.

Sulkowicz is an art major and is carrying the mattress as a final project titled, “Carry that Weight.”

Columbia University, accused of not firmly handling sexual assault cases, will only suspend a student, if found guilty of sexual assault, and the rapist can eventually return to classes and receive his degree.

This type of “slap on the wrists” does not deter the convicted rapist of repeating this act again. Sulkowicz is fighting a battle that may never be won.

“Sixty million adult Americans [have been assaulted],” said Montgomery.

This number, staggering as it is, is decreasing. According to statisticbrain. com, rape has dropped 60 percent since 1993. However, this does not mean that those being reported is increasing.

Not to say that victims are not just grabbed off the streets, but the most common place for rape is at the rapist’s home because the perpetrator has most likely groomed his/ her way into the victim’s family and life.

Rapes committed against children are done through child molesters who have groomed their way into the victim’s life.

First, the molester identifies the victim.

The molester then finds out information about the victim and then fills a need in the child’s life. The molester will then lower the child’s inhibitions about sexual acts, such as making up games that involve the child getting undressed, and finally, the molester will commit the act.

A friend or acquaintance commits 90 percent of child rapes.

Erin’s law is named after Erin Merryn, who fought to have a bill passed in the

“I don’t think people are very aware of the topic. [They are] not aware of how it affects victims,” Montgomery said.

Illinois that requires that all public schools to implement a prevention-oriented child sexual abuse program.

The program teaches students in grades pre-kindergarten through fifth grade ageappropriate techniques to recognize child sexual abuse and to tell a trusted adult. It also teaches school personnel about child sexual abuse, and teaches parents and guardians the warning signs of child sexual abuse along with support for sexually abused children and their families.

This law has been passed in eight states and is pending in 19 states, including Iowa.

This leaves those who were uneducated about the topic in their youth stranded and unaware of what rape is and can be, and who can do it.

Rape culture involves “slut shaming,” dehumanization of women and hatred

towards men, which only fuels the flame of opposing beliefs.

A woman should never be shamed for being confident in her sexuality, but she should never be raped for it.

The same goes for males. Humans have individual rights, all of which should be deemed as equal.

“I would like to have more information for schools, and I would like to see 1-800 numbers in bathroom stalls. So much needs to be addressed and the school could do a lot,” Montgomery said.

“We need a lot of change. We need change in our education system, legal system, and we need change in our attitudes,” she said.

Rape is never the victim’s fault.

Rape is anything that the victim may have been manipulated into, forced into, or drugged into doing.

The sexual assault hotline is: 1-800-656-HOPE and is available 24/7.

If a person is not comfortable with calling the hotline, one should talk to a counselor, trusted adult, friend, parent/guardian, or educator.

“I have seen the power of telling one’s story; it is a liberating and healing process. I’ve also seen it put the blame where it belongs, because, unlike other crimes, there is terrible shame involved,” Montgomery said.

“I think that the most important thing to say [to a sexual assault victim] is… ‘I believe you, and I will help you.’”

Sexual Assault Hotline: 1-800-656-HOPE

Dec. 12, 2014

An interview with a

Features

05

SEXUAL ASSAULT SURVIVOR: “I was on a family trip to

Chicago and we were there for a few days with family friends.

At the time I was a runner (I’m not anymore partially because of it) and I was assaulted by a man at the beginning of my run.

It wasn’t a long attack, however, since it was 5 a.m. and I was not a local, it was difficult to run away.

It was also difficult because since it was the beginning of my run, no one was expecting me home anytime soon.

“When I got home all I wanted was to take a shower.

A long hot shower and to cry. Since at the time I didn’t really know much about the report of a rape, that’s what I did.

My mom woke up because she heard me crying in the shower. She asked what was wrong and I told her.

It was at this point that the worst part of the assault happened. I had to be taken to the hospital to have a rape kit done and have police take my official statement. Lots of people don’t know what that entails so I think I’ll go through it really fast.

“The hospital will attempt

to meet with you as quickly as possible; like any other medical appointment, they will ask for a very detailed medical history.

Then they will ask for a very detailed assault and abuse history. This basically means a very detailed description of the assault. This description is recorded in some hospitals (the one I was in recorded it).

In this description it is pivotal that you do not leave any information out.

The doctors ask you very point blank questions that are very uncomfortable for you to answer especially considering the trauma that you have just experienced.

“Next is more of the evidence portion of the exam. If you were wearing any clothes at the time of the assault, the doctor will request from you to hand them over to him or her as evidence.

In my case I wore different clothes to the hospital but both outfits were marked down as evidence. This part of the rape kit is extremely difficult because after being so violated, it is difficult to take off your clothes for someone.

You just want to shower any traces of your attacker off. The last things that you want, are to do anything that happens in a rape kit.

“After your doctor collects that evidence, he or she moves to collecting other evidence; this sometimes can include taking photos of any unordinary marks.

The doctor collects all sorts of samples from you.

They scrape your fingernails, comb your body for hair samples, and take oral swabs.

Some of these samples are to distinguish your DNA from the attacker and some of it is the attacker’s DNA. “Following this, the doctor sometimes uses a fluorescent light called a woods lamp.

This is not used in all cases; however, it was in mine. The doctor used this lamp to see evidence that they may not be able to see with the naked eye.

“The final section of the exam is the vaginal/penile exam. This is where the doctor checks for injury. The doctor also collects evidence from that area at this time.

“I cannot put into words the fear that goes through one’s body at the time of the exam. It is unlike any other I have ever had before. The shame that goes along with the assault is more than one could imagine.”

P O SURVIVOR E ST O N S

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For more information on the fight to end sexual abuse, check out the following websites: http://tinyurl.com/lcuwthp (American Counseling Association) http://tinyurl.com/m3k5qpy (Parents for Megan’s Law) http://tinyurl.com/m3bc4br (The White House Blog)

THE BRUTAL FACTS Victims: • Under 18--44% • Under 30--80% • Annual number: 237,868 • About one assault every two minutes • Stranger or friend: 66% by someone known to the victim • 38% friend or acquaintance • Not reported: 60% • Jail time: 97% of rapists will never spend time in jail.

• Where: Perpetrator’s home--30.9 ; Victim’s home--26.6% • College: 95% are never reported • 22 million women and girls have been raped in their lifetimes • 1 in 71 men or 1.6 million men, have been raped during their lives • 98% of assaulters are male • Over a third of women raped as children, were raped again as adults Sources: rainn.org, statisticbrain.com, whitehouse.gov

06 Features Dec. 12, 2014

Ping pong club generates interest, fun seeing the faces of his opponents after he “kills them” with his topspin. Hayles participates in numerous intense matches against Wallace.

“I’ve beaten him [Wallace] by two points in every match we’ve ever played,” Hayles said.

Klutho also has fond memories of Wallace’s defeats.

by Melissa Weinstein Staff Reporter

Started by senior Ken Fu last December, ping pong club allows students to better their table tennis skills while participating in friendly competition every Friday after school.

“The club allows you to get to know more people and relax after a busy Friday,” Fu said.

Senior Chuck Klutho has been playing ping pong since he was ten. Senior Blake Wallace convinced him to join the club this year. Klutho’s favorite aspect of ping pong club is having fun with his friends in a competitive setting.

Junior Sam Hall has been in ping pong club for two years and joined to take his talents outside of his house. Hall’s signature moves include his topspin, sidespin and dropshot. Senior Jake Hayles prefers to hit backhand shots that curve back onto the table.

“Winning is my signature move,” Klutho said.

Klutho notes Fu as one of his toughest competitors in the club. Klutho, who plays mainly single matches, finds that having good hand-eye coordination and a competitive spirit are important to a successful round of ping pong.

“My favorite moment was watching him “Ping pong club gives me something to look forward to at [Wallace] get the end of the school week. I know nothing about the history dismantled by Mr. of ping pong, but I do know that this game is a great way to Nagoven,” Klutho compete against your friends,” Hayles said. said.

Fu’s dream ping “The most challenging part is returning pong opponent is Forrest Gump, while a slam or handling a nasty double spin,” Klutho would like to play against Tim Klutho said.

Tebow.

Fu’s most memorable match was against Robbie Furne which he calls “China versus the United States.” Hall also enjoys playing against teachers especially his “main man,” Matt Nagovan. Hall also enjoys

by Hannah Chin Staff Reporter

“My dream opponent is Napoleon Dynamite. There would be a battle for the centuries and then we would sit down and have tea afterwards,” Hayles said.

As a tennis player, Hall finds ping pong less of a challenge as tennis requires more technique. However, ping pong is filled with “more rage.” Klutho believes that both sports have their difficult points as tennis players have to run more, but ping pong leaves less time for competitors to react to the ball.

Fu worries for the future of the club as the group is currently comprised mainly of seniors.

“I’m not sure anyone will play after we graduate,” Fu said.

Hayles encourages everyone to go to ping pong club as students can drop in whenever they have a free afternoon. Fu loves the opportunity to hang out with his friends and compete against his favorite teachers. Hall suggests that anyone who wishes to be characterized as “cool” should join.

“Friday, after school, Ms. Yang’s room: be there,” Hall said.

‘ThesFest’ brings home awards

Students teach world languages at Armstrong

by Christine Vincent Staff Reporter Hannah Hichborn gets ready to teach Spanish.

T

heatre clubs, troupes, and programs from all over the state of Iowa gathered on the UNI campus to celebrate the dramatics arts on Nov. 14 and 15.

“ThesFest is basically a theatre conference. Troupes can perform acts, compete in events, watch productions, and attend educational workshops,” Junior Abbie Carpenter said.

The Bettendorf Troupe #542 participated in the festival under the direction of Christopher and Katie Howard.

Drama club director Katie Howard has been on the Iowa Thespian Board for 12 years and assisted in planning this year’s event.

“At the festival, students have the opportunity to audition for collegiate roles.

These sessions with colleges help students gain exposure to future careers in drama.

I assist with planning these workshops through the board,” Katie Howard said.

The drama club had numerous achievements over the weekend. Junior Nate Walczyk qualified for nationals in the technical event, lighting design. Junior Abbie Carpenter was selected for the Iowa Thespian Board.

Students who participated in the festival also had the opportunity to watch several live productions.

“The dramatic arts are important to me because it has helped me gain confidence in myself and develop leadership skills. I have been involved with the arts since I was a little kid and it has always been an enjoyable activity,” Carpenter said.

CROWLEY’S

by Henry Crowley Cartoonist

Alison Klos and Madeline Schmidt help a student with a French worksheet.

E

very Tuesday and Thursday, from 3:30- 4:15, BHS students travel to Neil Armstrong Elementary School for the World Readiness After School Program.

In what is commonly referred to as WRAP, high schoolers teach fourth and fifth graders basic French or Spanish vocabulary and phrases.

This program was piloted in 2012, with French, German and Spanish classes offered. Last year, only Spanish remained.

The French classes were brought back this year, because of popular demand.

“I love French and I really enjoy working with kids,” senior Akpevwe Ikoba said. “Being able to do something that is a combination of both things is amazing.”

A typical day in WRAP begins with review of the things taught in the previous week, then new vocabulary is introduced.

Some type of game then helps to enforce the new material.

“Children learn languages better than adults so it’s good for them to start young.

The kids in the program seem to enjoy it and learn a lot,” Sheila Conrad said.

There are three classes offered: French and Spanish 1 for new students and Spanish 2 for students who participated last year.

Adam Hopkins runs the Spanish program, Conrad is in charge of the French one.

If you are interested in participating, see Hopkins in room D265 and Conrad in room D268.

“I would recommend others to participate in this program because it is a lot fun working with kids and speaking in a different language,” Ikoba said.

CORNER

07 Winter involves Wrestlers ready skiing, skating to repeat success Dec. 12, 2014

Sports

by Melissa Weinstein Staff Reporter

“I love snow, but I hate the cold,”

senior Colin Malin said of the wintertime.

The snow and ice provide opportunities for students to participate in various winter sports outside of school.

Freshman Kailey Baxter has been a competitive figure skater for seven years.

“Figure skating is actually one of the toughest sports in the world. A figure skater needs the speed of a sprinter, the endurance of a long distance runner, the strength of a football player, the flexibility of a gymnast, the rhythm of a dancer, the grace of a ballerina, the height of a hurdler, the coordination of a baseball player and the smile of a cheerleader,” Baxter said.

Malin has been skiing for about six years and loves the freedom and creativity of the sport.

“In other sports there is always a set way of doing it and rules and guidelines.

In skiing there is no right or wrong way to do some trick. The range of ways to do things keeps it interesting, and I find that most conventional sports lack that aspect,” Malin said.

As a former member of a synchronized skating team, Baxter credits the sport for teaching her discipline.

“It strengthens you emotionally. If you mess up, you never ever cry. You just have to keep trying, and I love that,” Baxter said.

Malin and senior Ashton Glaus agree and believe that the mental challenges are the

hardest part of skiing. Malin has learned through experience that toenails take six months to fully grow back, and failure is always a possibility.

“You have to fully commit to doing a trick. You can’t be afraid to fall or look stupid because everyone does at some point,” Malin said.

Glaus has been skiing for four years and finds that failing is the only way to improve.

Malin teaches skiing lessons at Ski Snowstar in Andalusia, Illinois, which is one of his favorite places to ski along with various handrails and stair sets around the Quad Cities.

Baxter prefers to travel farther.

“My favorite place to ice skate is Vail, Colorado. The rink is outdoors, and you are surrounded by mountains. It is almost always snowing in Vail which creates a very magical atmosphere,” Baxter said.

Glaus agrees.

“There’s nothing more beautiful than being on top of a mountain in Colorado and looking out over other mountain ranges,” Glaus said.

Baxter also encourages people to try figure skating as the sport offers numerous learning opportunities both technically and socially.

“The sport is very difficult. It takes a very special person to figure skate competitively, but if you really have passion for the sport, you will learn to feel at home on ice and strive for perfection at all times. You will also meet incredible people. I guarantee it,” Baxter said.

Boys basketball tips off

by Brett Gaydos Newspaper Co-Editor

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his year’s boys basketball team will be full of new faces and young talent. After coming up with a third place finish in last year’s state tournament, the team will have a totally different roster. Only four seniors will be leading the team into the season.

“Our young guys are very talented so it is good to have them on the team,” junior John Lindeman said. We have a lot more depth at different positions which will help us this year.”

It will take a team effort to get through the grind of the season. After losing all five starters and several more off the bench from last season, many players will finally see their time on the court.

“Last year’s seniors really set the bar high, but we learned a lot from them and are excited for the opportunity to compete,” senior Matt Coiner said.

One thing has not changed since last year, practice. Every night the team goes through intense practices to get ready for games. The scout team is used to act like the opposing teams’ players for the upcoming games. This helps prepare the team for what they see in live game action.

“The beginning of practices involve a lot of skill work and near the end of practice we scrimmage and work on offensive sets,” Coiner said.

The team will be in action tonight at Pleasant Valley and could use support at every game.

Seniors sign for sports in college

by Brett Gaydos Newspaper Co-Editor

Last

month, seven student athletes signed their letters of intent to continue their education and athletic careers at different universities. During this event, each athlete shares with the community what his or her individual plans are for the future. Friends, family, and media all gathered to share this moment where all the hard work paid off in the end.

“Give your hardest in practice every day because even though it is hard, it will pay off,” senior Addy Bailey said.

For many of the student athletes, it was all about where they felt they would fit in the best. The combination of being able to

grow as a student and an athlete made the decision of where to go difficult for many to choose. For many of the athletes, it was all about being the right fit.

“Bellarmine felt like the perfect fit for me and I made the right choice,” senior Matt Cassady said.

Signees include the following: Bailey, volleyball, Taylor University; Tanner Nelson, swimming, Iowa; Cassady, baseball, Bellamine University; Paul Glynn, wrestling, Iowa; Jacob Schwarm, wrestling, UNI; Fredy Stroker, wrestling, Minnesota; and Jacob Woodward, wrestling, Iowa.

by Thomas Byrne Staff Reporter

The

Bettendorf wrestling program statewide audience, they have also made has been riding high after edging out their mark on a national level. According Southeast Polk last February to capture its to intermatwrestle.com’s Fab 50 Rankings, fourth 3A title. This year, returning three Bettendorf checks in as the 14th best team in the country with state champions Southeast Polk being and seven state the only Iowa team qualifiers from ranked in front of them. last year’s squad, State champions the Bulldogs seem Fredy Stroker, Jacob ready to assert their Schwarm, and Jack dominance on the Wagner will attempt to mats yet again. defend their titles this Delving a little year. Paul Glynn, Drew bit more into the Sass, Jacob Woodard, numbers, five of and Max Erpelding the qualifiers for look to build upon state state last winter qualifying seasons. are now seniors, Seniors Brady Neyrinck, and the other two Josh Malik, and Dayton are juniors. These Racer as well as juniors experiences on Jackson Gallagher the biggest stages and Josh Walls should should prove also give a boost to the advantageous to varsity lineup. the Bulldogs when The Bulldogs open it comes time to Jacob Schwarm captured the their season in early crown a champion 113 pound class 3A title back in December and look to at Wells Fargo February. Photo Credit: John Schultz, end the year at Wells Arena in February Quad City Times.

Fargo Arena for the 2015. state meet with the Although the team duals on Feb. 18 and the individual Bulldogs have garnered recognition from competitions on Feb. 19-Feb. 21.

Striking down the competition

by Thomas Byrne Staff Reporter

said. “We have at least 10 guys that are varsity material, and I believe we will be competitive at state and have a shot at the MAC title.”

Steinke also expressed gratitude towards his coaches, Mike and Karma Kelly, who have coached Bettendorf bowlers for years now.

“I am glad to have Mr. and Mrs. Kelly as my coaches. They are patient, understanding, and kind when it comes to their teaching approach,” he said.

The girls team should have little trouble replicating last season’s success as they return six of their top seven bowlers from a year ago. Among those returning to the team is the 2014 2A individual state champion, Anthony Pozzie rolls the ball down the lane Michaela Kelly. during a practice at Miller Time Bowling in “I believe that we could be Davenport. really good once our whole team is together, and we could have a shot at making it back to state,” oming off moderately successful Kelly said. campaigns last season that saw the boys Having had one of the top scoring team just miss the state meet and the girls averages in the state last season at 201 team making an appearance at state, the per game, Kelly attributes her success bowling teams look to establish themselves experience and good coaching. as MAC powers again this winter.

“I have been bowling since I was really Nick Steinke, a senior bowler in his little so I have gotten a lot of practice. Also, third year with the team, hopes to pick up our coaches have been awesome, and they some of the slack for a team that graduated help me when I am struggling,” she said. five bowlers who averaged at least 190 The Bulldogs kicked off their season on individually last year.

Nov. 24 at 30 Lanes in Davenport and plan “We lost a handful of competitive to end their seasons in late February at the seniors last year and many varsity spots state meet in Des Moines. have opened up, and a bunch of guys have stepped up and filled those spots,” Steinke

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Teacher Spotlight Rodger Wilming

by Thomas Byrne Staff Reporter

Birthplace and Date of birth? Jan.

16, 1961, in Heidelberg, Germany.

Siblings? I have a younger brother, and we actually have the same middle name, Wayne, my father’s name.

How did you spend your summers as a kid? I rode around a lot on my bike, played in the dirt, and played with my Hot Wheels cars.

High school? Davenport West.

College? I spent two years at Scott Community and got my graduate degree at Iowa.

Was teaching always your intended occupation? No, I actually got a degree in auto body repair and worked at UPS as a truck driver for a while. After reading “Catcher in the Rye,” I decided to be an English teacher.

Prior teaching jobs? I was a substitute teacher at PV and Bettendorf for two years, but I decided I liked Bettendorf better and took a job here.

Which classes do you teach? Mass Media, Fiction Writing, and Contemporary World Literature.

Talk about some of your hobbies. I like to restore things such as cars, guitars, and furniture.

Favorite holiday, why? Valentines Day because I love to give my wife jewelry.

Favorite food? Steak and lobster Favorite movie? “Night of the Iguana”

Favorite TV show? “The Twilight Zone” Favorite band? The Rolling Stones Favorite song? “Gimme Shelter” by The Rolling Stones Favorite part of teaching? The students because they keep me young.

Least favorite part of teaching? When I hear that one of my current or former students has passed away.

Favorite class to teach, why? Fiction writing because it is the only time I get to see students be as creative as they want to be.

Favorite time of your life? Childhood, because of its innocence, and I was able to ride around on my bike all day like Evel Knievel.

Hunters develop patience

by Brett Gaydos Newspaper Co-Editor

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unting is one pastime that many students enjoy around this time of year.

Throughout the season, different animals are allowed to be killed during different times.

Duck and deer hunting are two of the most popular game to hunt around the Quad Cities and surrounding areas.

Hunting is not for everyone. A hunter needs to have the patience to wait for the animals and the attitude of a hunter to be ready for anything.

“After waiting for animals, finally getting that first kill is the best part,” senior Matt Atwell said.

When hunting, there are a few things many people do not understand about the sport. Hunting usually happens early in the dark hours of the morning. This means hunters wake up very early in order to get to their blinds or stands. Before going out, hunters get all dressed up in camouflage in order to blend in. When finally at their spot, it is a waiting game.

“The time I get to spend with the people who mean the most to me and to sit and

relax is what hunting is all about,” Noah McKissick said.

For someone interested in hunting who has never done it, it is a fairly easy process.

The first step is to go through a hunters safety course to legally be able to hunt.

Once that is complete all that is needed is the equipment necessary to hunt.

When all of that is obtained, hunting will now be legal public land. Another spot to hunt on is private land, but hunters should ask the land owner for permission.

“Having the right equipment and making smart shots are very important,” McKissick said. “Also knowing what the tendency of what you are shooting and practice shooting can be the difference between a kill or a miss.”

Hunting can also cause a lot of dangerous situations by not understanding what is going on. Knowing the proper safety precautions can be the difference between having fun and getting hurt.

Being prepared at all times can prevent injury.

“Start out slow and follow the proper safety and everything will be ok,” Atwell said.

Do you like to take pictures?

The Growl and the yearbook are looking for students to take photos at events: games, music, drama, academic competitions and clubs.

If you are interested, see Miss King (D112) or stop in the journalism lab during third block. Follow us on Twitter @bettpress.

Visit us at bettgrowl.com. Like us on Facebook (bettmedia).

Dec. 12, 2014

Feature

08

Families receive help for holidays

by Dajae Hanson Staff Reporter

“A

s a counselor one of my job responsibilities is to help with Holiday Help,” Laura Jansen said Holiday Help was designed to help those families in need during the holidays.

“It has been around since before I was here, which is more than 10 years,” Laura Jansen said Every year all counselor come together and choose three families that they think would need help over the holidays. They then contact the families and ask them if they are interested; if so they ask them to write out a wish list of the things that they desire to have. The counselors inform that their contact information will be held confidential, not even the staff or faculty knows who these families are.

Jansen then sends the lists to Keith Bonnstetter; he then makes copies and posts them on the bulletin board for staff and faculty to see. He also sends out sign up sheets, and frequent reminders to everyone so that the gifts are being brought in.

“I remind them as a staff we are trained to help others in need,” Bonnstetter said Some years a club or a society will adopt a family, but they have to go to the counselors and talk it over with them. The club then gets the gifts for the families and give them to Bonnstetter and or the counselors to be given the families.

BHS staff and faculty are the ones that provide the gifts and supplies that are sent to to everyone by Bonnstetter. There have been organizations in the past that have donated or helped out with purchasing items for the families. But for the most part BHS staff and faculty provide the items given to these families.

“I figure there are more people that need more help than others and this is an easy way to give back,” Bonnstetter said After all the gifts have been collected by Bonnstetter or the counselors themselves.

They then wrap all gifts, and then contact all families to inform them their gifts are in. The families then come to pick them up and if transportation is not available, they are then delivered to them.

“The joy is seeing the families pick up their gifts and how appreciative they are,” Laura Jansen said.

Remember us this way . . .

But only if you buy a yearbook before the end of January!

The price goes up to $70-get one now and save $5.

Download the ReplayIt® app and see your photos in the yearbook!