February Growl

The

Growl

Bettendorf High School Vol. 48 Issue 4 Friday, February 3, 2012

Shoes can change world

By Christian Hahn Staff Reporter

In 2006, Blake Mycoskie took a trip to Argentina where he found extreme poverty, poor health conditions, and children walking without shoes. There, he was inspired to develop the latest fashion trend, Shoes for Tomorrow, better known as TOMS.

Mycoskie set out to not only sell shoes, but to donate a pair for every pair bought. The TOMS website boasts, “With every pair you purchase, TOMS will give a pair of new shoes to a child in need. One for One.”

Within the first six months of operation, TOMS became an instant hit, and was able to give away 10,000 pairs of shoes.

By the end of the second year, TOMS Shoes had distributed 150,000 pairs to impoverished children, and in September of 2010, TOMS gave their one millionth pair of shoes to a child in need.

According to the company’s website, TOMS ships shoes using the One for One concept to more than 20 countries including Argentina, Ethiopia, Guatemala, Haiti, Rwanda, South Africa, and the United States.

TOMS offers customers the Classics, which are inspired by a shoe native to Argentina, the alpargata.

Maddie GlanzGuessford sports Cordones.

TOMS shoes come in a variety of colors and designs.

(Photos by Christian Hahn)

The Classics were the original concept for Mycoskie, and they appear to be most popular.

Lately, Cordones have become more popular and can be worn with or without laces. A more sneaker-like shoe, Botas offer coverage up to the ankle and are a warmer alternative to the Classics and Cordones. Classics, Cordones, and Botas are offered in men and women’s styles.

For men, TOMS designed the Stitchouts which look like a “manlier” version of the Classics.

The latest for men are the Cords, which are corduroy versions of the Classics.

TOMS has developed the Wedge and Wrap Boot for women. TOMS also offers women Glitters, which are glittery versions of the Classics. Women may also purchase Cords. The latest and most exciting news for TOMS fans is that they will be releasing Ballet Flats this spring.

Vegan alternatives are also available for purchase on the TOMS website.

Last year, TOMS Eyewear was launched, which also boasts a similar idea; “With every pair you purchase, TOMS will help give sight to a person in need. One for One.”

With every pair of TOMS glasses purchased, TOMS will provide a means of medical treatment, prescription glasses, or

sight-saving surgery to someone in need.

Their operations are starting in Cambodia, Nepal, and Tibet, and they plan on reaching more countries in need.

TOMS gives people so much room for creativity, whether through eyewear or unique shoes. Shoes for Tomorrow offers a plethora of different patterns and colors to choose from.

Whether it’s the Classic, the Cordone, or the Wedge, each allows freedom of expression while giving back to the nations in need. Shoes for Tomorrow are very comfortable, lightweight, and are, overall, a feel good shoe.

People wear TOMS because they’re so incredibly comfortable by including arch support. They wear them because they’re trendy. Customers look for a lot of choices in style and color, and TOMS offers just that.

But the greatest reason people wear TOMS is the One for One movement.

Everyone loves to receive and give back.

That’s the beauty and pure simplicity of karma. What more can one do? Joining a TOMS Campus Club is always an option.

Next year, Kelsi Wolever and Ali Grampp, juniors and TOMS fanatics, plan on starting a TOMS Club at the school that would be open to anyone.

“TOMS Club would raise awareness about TOMS and how they help those in other countries by giving

them shoes. It would put the One for One movement on display,” Wolever said.

Grampp and Wolever believe TOMS Club would be a good extracurricular because it would get students involved with other people in the school and would raise awareness about the good cause. They also feel as though the club could bring the school together with events like Style Your Sole, a TOMS sponsored event that allows participants to customize their own blank canvas TOMS.

“TOMS Club would be about helping others, not so much through community service, but by enthusing over a fashion trend that is also helping those less fortunate. TOMS is a great organization that is helping to start a worldwide movement,” Wolever said. “We’re more united as people in the world because of TOMS.”

One may assist in the One for One movement and change the world by showing an interest in TOMS Club, hosting a Style Your Sole party, or by simply making a purchase on toms.com or ordering Shoes for Tomorrow through Journey’s or Zumiez at Northpark Mall.

Wolever and Grampp show off their TOMS flag and shoes before homecoming.

News

2

February 3, 2012

Club involvement fun, interesting Art Club frenzy

by Megan Sanchez Editor

Tucked away in the corner in the basement of our school lives a club that loves to create, imagine, and come together. Art Club is supervised by Hilary Puglisi and Tim Solbrig.

Art Club recently partnered with French Club to visit the Figge Art Museum in Davenport. There, they observed a Haitian art exhibit and French movie posters.

Overall, it was a successful experience.

H a l e y Hoffman, sophomore, regularly attends Art Club.

“Art Club is really fun. People should definitely join,” Hoffman said.

C a r a Bergman, senior, is currently in the process of making a ceramic octopus. It was recently fired in the kiln and is soon going to be painted.

She took a lot of time on this project, and is

Wonderful world of languages

by Michael Conner Staff Reporter excited for the finished product.

Hannah Montgomery, sophomore, is working on making a miniature garden from random, not so common art materials.

“You can pretty much just work on whatever you want,” Montgomery said.

Art Club is currently planning a mural in the Language Arts hallway. This mural will incorporate books on a shelf, which will include some of the novels students read in their English classes.

Recently, Art Club received some information about making decorations for this year’s Turnabout dance, Saturday Night Fever. They brainstormed ideas at their last meeting, but those will be left a surprise.

“New people are always welcome,” Solbrig said.

If students would like to check it out, Art Club meets every Thursday after school until about 4:00 p.m.

World Language Clubs give students the chance to learn more about the cultures the languages are spoken in, while getting to hang out with friends.

German Club

German Club is advised by Adam Orange, but he is better known as Herr Orange. German Club does many activities and gives back to the community,

The club occasionally goes bowling, eats authentic German food, and goes to see German theater.

“I think what makes German club unique is that we like to give back to the community. I think it’s important to not only do good for ourselves, but for the whole Bettendorf community,” Orange said.

Some students in German Club are also in a group called GAPP, or German American Partnership Program.

GAPP is a program that sends U.S. students to Germany for one month, and then the students from Germany come to the United States.

German Club meets twice a month in Herr Orange’s room. Anyone can join; all students need to do is show up.

French Club

Sheila Conrad leads French Club through the many activities they do to gain a greater appreciation of the culture.

French Club has movie and game nights, eat authentic French food,

celebrate French holidays, ice skate, and go to the Figge Art Museum to view French art.

Something unique that French Club does is called French conversation table. French conversation table involves people from French Club who go out to restaurants, usually with French foods, and speak French the entire time.

Students can join French Club by being present at any of their meetings.

French Club meets every other Tuesday after school in Conrad’s room.

Spanish Club

Spanish Club, led by Annie Opgenorth, gets to do numerous activities for not only the club, but the community.

In Spanish Club, students speak Spanish, get involved in Spanish culture events, and help the Spanish community in the Quad Cities.

Spanish Club has club dinners at Azteca, movie nights, and plans to attending the Flamenco Ballet on March 29.

“I think that Spanish Club helps students get a better understanding of the Hispanic community while being able to give back to it too,” Opgenorth said.

Anyone can join Spanish Club.

All students need to do is show up to any of their meetings. Meetings are held in Opgenorth’s room.

Schlicting’s show soars

By Michael Conner Staff Reporter

Growl Staff Editor: Megan Sanchez Reporters and Photographers: Emma Brindle, Michael Conner, Christian Hahn, Callie Heiderscheit, Megan Horton, Chris Matheson, Allie Weis, Haley Zapolski.

Adviser: Connie King Mascot: Newsie

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.

The Growl is a member of the Iowa High School Press Association (IHSPA) and the Journalism Education Association.

Visit us at bettgrowl.com.

Use your smart phone to check us out online!

Kolton Schlicting, also known as K-Shiz, has always wanted his own sports talk show, and now he has one.

The K-Shiz Sports Talk show has evolved from a simple debate between friends, to an online internet sensation.

Over the past year, K-Shiz Sports Talk decided that talking through X-box 360 wasn’t cutting it for the show. Schlicting decided to record his shows on a website called TalkShoe.

There, Schlicting could record his shows on the talkshoe website and then later on iTunes.

Schlicting has a new type of sports show. Schlicting calls his new show Around the Bases, which is very similar to the ESPN show, Around the Horn. Around the Bases is a show specifically for baseball, but is only on in the summer.

In Around the Bases, guests call in and become contestants on the show.

Schlicting will provide topics the previous day that will be on the next Around the Bases show. Then contestants will have to answer the questions Schlicting provided the day before. Schlicting then judges who gives to best answer and awards the person points. The person with the most points wins.

Schlicting has since created his own website. The website features the latest sports news, rumors, events,

Schlicting’s opinions on all sports events, members of the K-Shiz staff, such as Steven Soko, Alex Heesch, and Taylor Trumbo, and poll questions regarding sports.

Schlicting has also created a sports blog using Blogger.com. Schlicting and the K-Shiz staff frequently provide written updates on topics featured in his radio show.

Schlicting will start up the new season of K-Shiz Sports Talk after the Super Bowl this year. Schlicting plans on having numerous special guests on the show.

There are various ways to listen to Schlicting’s shows. One way is on Facebook. If students want to find out when the next show is, they can visit his Facebook page. After that, all the listener needs to do is go to the link on the Facebook page and call the number Schlicting leaves on the page.

Another way to stay up to date on Schlicting is by following him on Twitter.

Students can follow Schlicting on Twitter at KshizSportsTalk.

“Sports have been my passion my whole life. Now I get to pursue my passion in a way other people can also enjoy,” Schlicting said.

For further information on anything Schlicting does or how to listen to past episodes, visit the blog at www.kshizblog.blogspot.com.

Features

3

February 3, 2012

Speech/debate team struggles to get by

by Christian Hahn Staff Reporter

This year, the speech and debate fundraising and private donations. team, much like many other years, is One of the main problems struggling to get by. Unfortunately, is that the student body doesn’t know this year is worse than others. The what the speech and debate team is members of the team express some about. What students may not know of their struggles for this season. is that in the past six years, the speech

Maddie Glanz-Guessford, a and debate team has sent 12 National sophomore, believes the team is set back by the low cost for Bettendorf students to participate in tournaments, failed fundraisers, and lack of support from the school.

“Our fundraisers fail because no one really knows what the speech and debate team is doing for the school,” Glanz-Guessford said.

“The problem with fundraisers is that we need volunteers, planning, and communication,” advisor, Joe Rankin said.

“We can’t go to all the tournaments we want to because we’re so short on money,” Franki Crites, sophomore, said.

At the beginning of the year, Rankin receives a budget from the general Joe Rankin lectures his team which includes fund based on competition Jonathan Gunti. (Photo by Abbi Clevenger) fees, overnight stays, and participation.

Often, the team struggles to reach the end of Forensic League Qualifiers to Nationals. the year without going over budget.

“Speech and debate are The team receives support from different because speech is more like

acting, but they’re similar because they emphasize public speaking,” Glanz-Guessford said.

Speech contests include humorous interpretation, dramatic interpretation, or duo interpretation (which can be funny or dramatic), each of which are limited 8-10 minutes with a 30-second grace period.

Debate contests include public forum, Lincoln Douglas, or congress. Other contests include original oratory and extemporaneous speaking.

A student can get involved by speaking with Rankin in room D102 before or after school, or ask Glanz-Guessford or Crites.

Each participant can be double- Jessica Erbst practices extemporaneous entered in a competition. For speaking. (Photo by Abbi Clevenger) example, a student participating in humorous interpretation may but it also becomes a number game.” also participate in congress, but may only “We should have more people go to State for one event. Members may on the team because it would make the opt out of a competition if one chooses. team stronger. Then we could go to State

Bettendorf takes a van or and maybe even Nationals!” Crites said. two to competitions while other “My opinion is that we value the schools bring buses, which speaks team and our advisor. Also, our middle about the team’s participation. school has been very open to allowing

“Anytime you’re trying to take Mr. Rankin to build the program. Speech an organization from good to great, it and debate isn’t exactly an event that takes people. From my perspective, I see you can come and watch so it’s hard that no matter what it is--a sports team, to raise awareness about the team and the show choir, or the drama department- how great and talented they are,” Casas -people try to get to another level,” said. “I’m happy with our debate team.”

Jimmy Casas said. “Time is the variable,

Students give through Gilda’s

By Callie Heiderscheit Staff Reporter Those who volunteer at Gilda’s Club feel no distaste for taking a couple hours out of their week to help others.

“I love getting to play with all the little kids on Wednesdays,” sophomore Mathew McFate said.

Gilda’s Club, an organization which works to help those struggling with cancer and their families, is a place where numerous Bettendorf students have enjoyed volunteering in the past. The most popular place for kids to help out is in Noogie Land.

Noogie Land provides the perfect playhouse for children who have had to cope with the effects of cancer. Volunteers spend the evening among the bouncy and boisterous playroom entertaining kids.

From air hockey and the rock wall, to crafts and Simon Says, it’s hard to say whether it’s the kids having fun or the volunteers.

For the children at Gilda’s Club, it’s the reap of emotional help which is especially beneficial.

“Every Wednesday we all split up and talk about the kid’s family member’s treatment. We all try to make them all feel better about the whole thing,” McFate said.

For McFate, Gilda’s Club is more than playing around with kids for the night.

Gilda’s Club holds a personal connection which helps him realize how important the organization is for the kids.

“Because my mom had cancer and I went as a kid, I thought it would be cool for other kids going through it to have someone to talk to,” McFate said.

Gilda’s Club provides multiple special events throughout the year. On Halloween, the organization decked the halls with cobwebs and spiders to deliver an exciting holiday for the kids. They also hosted a camp in the summer for the Gilda’s Club children and regularly put together fundraisers.

The portion of Gilda’s Club that the Quad Cities sees is only small fraction of the entire organiztion.

Originally, the group was founded by previous Saturday Night Live star, Gilda Radner. Radner, while fighting ovarian cancer, claimed that the support she’d recieved from comparable societies had been crucial during her final years. She called for the creation of a similar group which would work to provide hope for others like her.

Six years after her death, in 1995, the first Gilda’s Club had been created in her name.

“If you’ve never been to Gilda’s Club, you should really go because it gives you a better perspective,” McFate said.

If interested, visit Gilda’s Club’s website at http://gildasclubqc.org/ or see them in person at 1234 East River Drive Davenport, Iowa.

4020 Brady St Davenport, IA 52806 563-323-4700

Features

4

February 3, 2012

“Neat-o things” people do

By Allie Weis Staff Reporter

Lauren Hoover

Lauren Hoover, sophomore, does an activity that few people in the school do, rowing. She rows through the Quad City Rowing Association, and they row on the Mississippi River.

“Rowing is 60 percent legs, 20 percent arms and back, and 20 percent abdominal strength,” Hoover said.

Hoover joined rowing because it was something different that looked challenging, Lauren Hoover rows at Club Nationals where and it allows her to travel all she got third place. (Contributed photo) around the country. Hoover was also interested because there are Rathjen said, “It is fun to fly planes a lot of scholarship opportunities available for rowers. Her dream is to be recruited by and every time you fly is different from the last time.” the University of Wisconsin.

Rathjen wanted to learn how to

Recently Hoover and some of her teammates got the opportunity to travel to fly because when he was 14 years old his Oakland, Calif, for a rowing camp for three older sister had a friend that was a flight days. Along with Hoover, 21 girls from instructor. He took Rathjen on his first around the country got the opportunity to flight, and once they had landed Rathjen go. In order to attend this camp Hoover had decided that he wanted to learn how to fly.

“I am the first person in my family to send in her best erg times.

“Erging for rowers is like a to fly. I wanted to pursue it simply because treadmill for runners. It is basically a I love flying,” Rathjen said.

Before Rathjen becomes a licensed rowing machine that lets us practice when it is not nice enough to go on the water,” pilot he must first pass training and pass the final tests. He has to have 40 hours Hoover said.

Hoover said that erging is very total training with 20 of those hours being difficult, and that she definitely sweats by instructed flight and another 20 hours the time practice is over. She said that the being solo flight.

Rathjen does all of training in a difficulty of each practice varies depending on what events are coming up such as 1997 Cessna 172. He has flown about ten regattas. Regattas are what the rowing hours total and was told the average time to complete his training is approximately one meets are officially called.

For Hoover, rowing is a big year. He does his flying mainly northwest commitment because of the practice of Davenport, but he has also flown over schedule. She practices two times a day Moline, Clinton, and Cedar Rapids.

To become a licensed pilot, Rathejen Monday through Thursday, in the mornings on Friday and Saturday, and has the day off has to wait until he is 17 years old. In the meantime Rathjen could be a glider pilot or on Sunday.

All that practice has paid off, a hot air balloon pilot because he has to be though, because Hoover’s quad got first 14 years old to get that license.

“The coolest thing I have done at club nationals. Hoover considers this is acrobatic her biggest flight. That achievement means loops, because she rolls, inverted and the three flight, all the other girls in stuff done in her boat worked air shows. hard in order All of that to beat all of was done in the other boats a Stearman. from around the A Stearman country. is a World

O n e War I fighter of Hoover’s p l a n e , ” favorite parts Logan Rathjen and some of his friends got to Rathjen said. about rowing is go see the Blue Angles. The plane they are being able to see standing by is Blue Angle 7. (Contributed photo) Thankfully the sunrise over for Rathjen, the Mississippi nothing has ever gone wrong while he was River every day.

Hoover said, “I think that more flying; the only thing that scared him was people should join rowing because the landings.

“My landing speed it about 85 mph. team needs more members, and it is a very I maintain that speed and point the nose rewarding sport.” of the plane at the ground so all you see is grass and the runway. I stay looking there until I am 10 feet above the runway, and

Logan Rathjen, a sophomore, then I pull up and gently land. It’s scary the is learning how to fly--airplanes, that is. first time, and every other time after that,” He is in training to become a pilot at the Rathjen said.

Davenport Municipal Airport, which is the same airport that hosts the air show every year.

Logan Rathjen

Griffen Clark

“We write our own music. We should have an album out by this summer.

We might occasionally do a Pixies cover or something cool like that,” Clark said.

Puddle Jumper plays at local venues, like Rozz Tox in Rock Island, Ill. Clark said they have been generous in helping them set up shows. Puddle Jumper hopes to do summer tours in places such as DeKalb and Chicago Ill.

Clark considers his biggest show a local gig where another band called Is World played along with a couple touring bands.

“I was really pumped for this show because some of my best friends were in the band Is World and it was their last show,” Clark said.

“I don’t want to come off as arrogant or anything, but Puddle Jumper has a sound that I think everyone can universally enjoy. It’s also a type of music that I thoroughly enjoy playing and writing music for. So with this combination, I feel our destinations and possibilities are boundless, as cliche as that sounds,” Clark said.

C l a r k would like to ask everyone to support local music because he thinks that the Quad Cities has some amazing local bands, and they need as much support as possible. He said Griffen Clark plays guitar with the rest of the band Puddle that he encourages Jumper during a show. (Contributed photo) everyone to take a friend to a show because he thinks that people may find a builds from there. new favorite band or make new friends.

Clark said, “ I always looks forward to band practice.”

Griffen Clark, senior, plays guitar in a band called Puddle Jumper. The band has been together for about four months, but shows a lot of potential.

Other members of the band include Ian Francis, Laura Wegener, and Ian Harris. Francis, senior, plays the drums. Wegener sings and plays the trumpet, and attends St. Ambrose University. Harris plays bass and attends Blackhawk College.

Clark taught himself to play the guitar in sixth grade, but also plays the cello and the upright bass. Whatever Clark does musically depends on what he is interested at the time.

Clark said, “I can’t imagine what my life would be like if I wasn’t playing music.”

The band Puddle Jumper practices up to three times a week. Clark said that practice usually consist of him introducing a song idea that he came up with and he

Tommy Tygret Since I went through all the trouble of putting you in the news, I need you to say yes to avoid the Sadie Hawkins blues!

Features

5

February 3, 2012

Live Uncommon spreads its message

by Haley Zapolski Staff Reporter

Live Uncommon (LU) is a nonprofit organization that exists to champion the values of family, work ethic, fitness, health, balance, excellence, and giving back.

The goal of the organization is to promote these values and to inspire people to live uncommonly. LU was created by Michelle Russell, who was inspired by her husband, Jim. Russell said he is “the most generous, giving, kind, and philanthropic person I’ve ever known. The seed of Live Uncommon is him.”

If one would like to get involved with Live Uncommon, go to liveuncommon.org to donate by either making a tax-deductible donation or by purchasing gear, like shirts, jackets, sports bras, and bags. The gear is also sold at Active Endeavors on Elmore Street.

Once the gear is purchased, the buyer is a team member. Next, a team member can take a picture of him or

(which won the Quad City Marathon Women’s Relay), and we just started off as this group of five high school girls that were put together to represent LU in a positive way.

We are going to Senior Lisa Trizzino, junior Anna Peer, and senior Abby Wywras schools and at Run with Carl. spreading the word about herself doing something uncommon and LU.” send it into the website to be posted on the

Other charter teams are the team members’ page.

Pleasant Valley girls cross country team Russell said, “Live Uncommon is very and Bettendorf Pleasant Valley Aquatics, a broad, and it means something different to local club swim team. LU also sponsors everyone.” local athletes Jen Paul, a running celebrity,

Profits go towards different and her husband, Jeff Paul, a professional charities and Live Uncommon events. triathlete.

Most of the members are Live Uncommon is involved in runners, but Russell hopes to expand the a number of events, from sponsoring the organization to include more walks of life.

St. Patricks day race to hosting fundraisers

The girls cross country team is at roller derbies.

On the website is the proud to be a charter team for LU and they even have their own LU gear. Members of the team are pictured on billboards over town and on the website and has been involved with LU events.

Junior Anna Peer is involved LU and said, “I’m part of the year one relay

New cell phone policy started in January

Students were very pleased when the cell phone policy was first announced, but at first there was an extensive use of

The new cell cellphones. phone pilot that allows

“The first couple days more students to text in the phones were brought to the office because hallways and at lunch at teacher meetings the importance of has all of the students taking phones away in class was greatly excited. Whether it’s texting a BFF, stressed,” Casas said. calling mom, finishing a turn on Words

There has been a lot of positive With Friends, or playing Temple Run, feedback about the pilot. The administrators almost all of the students are enjoying the in the building support this new policy, privilege to be able to use cell phones. and as long as phones continue to be used

Math teacher Kathryn Dempsey appropriately the pilot could become a said, “I think the new policy is good permanent policy. with the way the Julianne Trizzino, new technology is sophomore, said, “I like going it was time the new policy because to make a change.

I can play Temple Run Although I worry that and call my mom without students may lose the getting into trouble.” privilege if they are RSVP lead team not more responsible member, Elizabeth Baer, with their phones worked with Mr. Casas because I have seen Carter Collins, Hannah Crane, extensively to establish and Abby Davidson enjoy being many phones being the pilot. Both parties able to use their phones. taken away.” agreed upon the decision

The policy to change the policy. was reevaluated because at the RSVP

Baer said, “The administration summits the cell phone policy has been a is aware that society is moving in a priority. technological direction, and they were

Jimmy Casas said, “We have willing to embrace the idea.” monitored feedback for a year and a half,

“I am most excited about the fact and we decided that this year we would that this process was initiated by students. pilot a new policy. We wanted to wait until I think the students are appreciative of their second semester because they wanted to new privilege. I hope that everyone enjoys collect more information and conduct the freedom,” Baer said. more surveys.”

In order for this new policy to

Casas stressed that it is very work it will require the students to use their important that students are not using phones properly and at the appropriate their phones in inappropriate ways such times. The fact that the administration was as bullying, cheating, and texting while willing to give this new pilot a try shows driving. If these issues become a problem that there is a good relationship between then the privilege will be taken away. the students and the administration.

By Allie Weis Staff Reporter

calendar with all of the events. Russell said, “I am excited to announce the upcoming events called The Revolution.”

One part of the revolution is a $5,000 scholarship LU is awarding to one high school girl and one boy for writing an essay.

Another part of the revolution is the No Obstacle Race, which will be held around the beginning of June. The race is going to be an obstacle course and will allow 250 high school boys and 250 girls enter.

Later that evening, LU will be hosting an event to hopefully break the record for the World’s Biggest Torch Light Parade. Russell hopes to have 10,000 people participate in the walk, and part of the registration costs will go to the scholarships and a charity or group of an individual’s choice.

After the walk that evening, the winners of the obstacle race will be announced, and will receive a $10,000 scholarship.

Live Uncommon’s message is spreading quickly so be sure to get involved.

Students go meatless

By Megan Horton Staff Reporter

For most people, eating meat is an everyday thing.

However, for some students, meat is never on the menu. Instead vegetables and fruit are the primary choice.

Leita Richardson and Sierra Tubbs, juniors, both do not eat meat. Their circumstances are both different, however.

Richardson has been a vegetarian for five to six years. She first became a vegetarian because of the animal rights reasons. Now she simply does not like the taste and texture of meat.

However, Richardson does not completely rule out meat. She considers herself a pescetarian. A pescetarian is

someone whose diet excludes land animals and birds, but includes seafood.

“When I eat out, we have to find a place with fish,” Richardson said.

Richardson’s family is supportive of her vegetarianism. One of her good friends, Stefanie Cook, junior, is also a vegetarian.

Tubbs, 17, has been a vegetarian her whole life. Tubbs expressed that it is not a struggle being a vegetarian. Unlike Richardson, she is a complete vegetarian and does not eat any meat. Tubbs’ family is supportive of her decision not to eat meat because her mother is also a vegetarian.

“I don’t eat anything with a face,” Tubbs said.

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Photo Feature

6

February 3, 2012

Fashionable students show

By Megan Horton Staff Reporter

Many students walk through the halls every day, but certain students stand out by dressing out of the ordinary. However, their styles are all unique. These students exemplify some of the most unique fashion choices in our school.

Emily Braught, senior, shows off her unique style.

“My inspiration is Angus Young,” Drew Horst, freshman, said.

“I can’t really describe my style because I like a lot of different styles, something really girly to something bohemian,” Cassidy Glynn, junior, said. Glynn’s inspirations are Lauren Conrad and the Olson twins. Her favorite store is Forever 21 but she also shops at thrift stores.

Kylie Gutierrez, sophomore, gets her clothes from thrift stores. Her inspiration is Tavi Gevinson.

“I like to take an item of clothing and alter it,” Paige Berg, junior, said.

Photo Feature

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February 3, 2012

off their unique styles F A S H I O N !

Stefanie Cook, junior, likes to wear anything comfortable and items with patterns.

Shyla Bruce, junior, wears different outfits depending on her mood.

Bruce’s favorite store is Goodwill.

“I do whatever makes me happy,” Bruce said.

Mr. Wilming has a lot of interesting ties--this one shows his love of guitars.

Dana Ontiveros, sophomore, likes to wear bright colors and heels. Ontiveros shops at her mother’s clothing store, online, and at Pacific Sunwear. She gets inspiration from old fashion.

Baby Ads

for the yearbook are now available!

Go to www.bettendorf.k12.ia.us>high school>news to print the form.

Drop off the form and money in the journalism lab or mail it to Baby Ads, BHS Yearbook, BHS, 3333 18th St., Bettendorf, IA 52722.

Deadline is April 11.

Features

8

February 3, 2012

Students heading for military

By Emma Brindle Staff Reporter

For many students, moving out and going to college is the top priority after graduation. For five students, Brandon Labath, Robert Merino, Austin Reed, Daniel Sullivan, and Chris Torrey, their sights are set to a future far from dorm life. They are all planning to start their adult lives as a part of the U.S. military.

A l e x Erlandson is a recruiter for the U.S. Navy and provided a background Austin Reed for those curious as to what the Navy is all about. Everyone who joins attends boot camp for eight weeks before beginning school.

The contract for being in the Navy consists of four years of active duty and four years of inactive. After the four years of active duty, all that is required is a current phone number; otherwise, the sailor is free to go on to any future endeavors.

The Navy pays for all schooling and tuition assistance is offered to anyone

for any school that they are interested in attending.

As far as living conditions, while in the barracks, one lives in a single bedroom apartment with free cable and is free to do whatever after the work day.

Life on the ship is very comfortable.

Sailors have access to Internet, a gym, and professors Brandon are on board as well, Labath which allows them to continue college courses while on board. The deployments are six to eight months long. Not all of this time is spent on the ship.

For Labath and Reed, joining the Navy was appealing because it gave them an opportunity to travel the world free of cost, go to school for free, and serve their country.

Torrey said, “College sounded terrible so I decided to join the Navy.”

Reed, who is going into the nuclear power program, will be going to South Carolina after his boot camp. He made his decision after talking to all of the branches and researching on his own.

Reed plans to be with the Navy for 6-20 years.

“If you want to travel or see the world but don’t want to be in the military, talk to me about talking with my recuiter becayse there are always other options,” said Reed.

Labath, who learned a lot Chris Torrey of his information from online research, will be attending school in Chicago and planning on becoming an operational specialist.

For Torrey, being in the military is a family tradition. His father, grandfather, and great grandfather all served. Torrey’s goal is to eventually become a Navy SEAL.

Junior Merino is joining the Marines and plans to go into the computer technology field. Merino will begin his career in Paris Island, CA.

Merino said, “Joining the marines will give me a chance to get experience in the field while serving my country.”

Sullivan has applied to the Air force Academy and is awaiting his reply.

Robert

“Attending Merino the Air Force Academy will give me a chance to attend one of the top schools in the country while serving my country,” said Sullivan.

Sullivan has ambitions to have a career in politics after becoming an officer in the Air Force. He will be going to boot camp for six weeks before his two to three years of flight school. After boot camp, Sullivan will be on his way to Colorado Springs to continue his journey with the Air Force.

halls,” Furne said. best friends!

Getting past the two without Breier and Kinsinger met while wearing an issued ID or lanyard is a tough working together in student council. task with these

“Reece is one teachers. of the coolest teachers “Without a doubt here, so that’s how we are the best duo we got to know her,” this school has to Kinsinger said. offer,” Schaefer said.

“I think one

The two thing that is cool is that spent six years all three of us are not coaching together on from around here, so the sophomore team we don’t have family before Schaefer here. This fact had moved up to become Robbie Furne and Phil Schaefer made us closer and the offensive take down lanyard-less students in we have a lot of time the hallway. to hang out with each other,” Breier said. coordinator for varsity.

Breier teaches English 10, Student

Furne teaches World Council, Introduction to Literature, and History, while Schaefer Composition. Kinsinger teaches Freshman teaches AP European History Biology, Student Council, and AP Biology. and American History.

Reece teaches Spanish 1, Spanish 2, and Furne is also the head coach Spanish 3. for the girls golf team, and All three teachers are Schaefer is the seventh grade also involved in extracurricular activities. wrestling coach at the Middle School.

“What I like about Mr. Furne and Mr. Schaefer is that they don’t care what people think about them, so they do anything they want, which is funny,” Cam Khoury, a student of Schaefer and Furne, said.

is co-advisor of student council. Reece is the head coach of girls track. Breier is the other co-advisor of student council.

When the three teachers are in town, they like to go to movies, hang out, but most importantly grade papers and go to the library together.

“I think that the best thing about all of us working here is that we all get to work with our best friends,” Breier said.

Faculty finds fun with friends

By Michael Conner Staff Reporter Dynamic duo

School brings friendships to not only students, but to teachers as well. A number of teachers have found best friends in school, as well as spouses.

Robbie Furne and Phil Schaefer met while coaching at Bettendorf, and have been great friends for years.

Schaefer and Furne have rooms right next to each other in C hall.

“Schaefer and I dominate these

Terrific trio

Most students believe that Danielle Breier, Katie Kinsinger, and Jessi Reece are some of the coolest teachers that our school has to offer. Ironically, they are

Danielle Breier, Katie Kinsinger, and Jessi Reece are great pals.

Kinsinger is the freshman girls basketball coach and boys golf coach. Kinsinger also

Wiley squared

Some teachers become more than friends while working. Heather and Aaron Wiley met while teaching at here and have been married for 12 years.

“We started talking in the hall one day and it just grew from there,” Mrs. Wiley said. On their first dates, the two ate dinner out of town, so no students would see them or be able to start rumors about them.

Some may think that it would be awkward or hard having to work with a spouse, but Mrs. Wiley does not think so.

“We rarely see each other during the day, and we usually email each other if there is something we need,” Mrs. Wiley said..

Mr. Wiley teaches Global Geography and Honors American History.

Mrs. Wiley teaches Honors Chemistry and Forensic Science.

The ironic thing is that Mrs. Wiley’s worst and least favorite subject in high school was history, and Mr. Wiley’s least favorite subject was science.

With the vast knowledge these two have in different subjects, it makes them a force to be reckoned with at any trivia game.

Features

Dewey’s: read and feed 9

February 3, 2012

By Callie Heiderscheit’ Staff Reporter

Family-friendly, creative and fresh; each of these words could be rightfully dubbed upon Dewey’s Library Café located on 2950 Learning Campus Drive. From the free Wi-Fi, to the collection of magazines, Dewey’s is the perfect place for high school students to snack and lounge.

To anyone looking for an escape from the cold, I would suggest Dewey’s.

They have an array of sandwiches, soups, smoothies, coffee drinks, and deserts.

All food is made right in the shop, free of powder and mixes, leaving behind a stream of delicious aromas.

Another plus: The options. When dining at Dewey’s, you don’t have to indulge in sweets. They offer a selection of organic meals for those craving more nutritional choices.

For instance, I would recommend the turkey bacon cheese Panini for $3.50. But if you are looking to satisfy your sweet-tooth, you can warm up with a hot chocolate and cheesecake brownie.

One great thing about Dewey’s is you can enjoy food without breaking bank.

One can grab a meal including a coffee

drink, sandwich, and desert around $7.00 anytime from 7:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.on weekdays and 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on weekends. You can relax at Dewey’s anytime from 7:30 to 9:00 on weekdays, and 7:30 to 5:30 on the weekend.

The crowning achievement in the making of Dewey’s is the location. With it being inside the library, there’s no better place to enjoy some chow while hitting the books.

The academic benefits include a wide selection of books, computers, and even on-site tutors.

This bonus certainly hasn’t slipped past many high school students since the restaurant is already reaching approximately 50-100 kids per night.

When you’re looking for a way to enjoy your evening or find a change of scenery amid an intense study session, I would advise visiting Dewey’s.

After taking notice of the decorative lights strung on the ceilings or the collection of artwork covering the walls, grab a seat and chill.

“Dewey’s isn’t just about the food, it’s what connects kids to their learning environments. It’s about relationships and it’s about the community,” Karen Brinson, the owner of Dewey’s, said.

Custodial work goes unnoticed

by Megan Sanchez Editor

The custodians do a lot for this school, and not many students actually take the chance to get to know them.

David Dooley, Steve Palmer, and Jim Kiel are three of the custodial workers at the high school.

Dooley, the night supervisor, has worked here for 18 years. He was laid off from another job, and found out about a subbing position from a friend. His position eventually became permanent.

“My favorite part about working here is the administration. They’re very nice,” Dooley said.

The job keeps Dooley pretty busy.

He has four kids, Molly, Tom, Kim and Tim. He also has a dog named Mickey.

Palmer, the head of custodial services for the district, has been here for 11 years. He was hired for his maintenance skills.

Palmer enjoys repairing things and making them safe for the students.

He fixes things such as the heating, air conditioning, and the doors.

“Outside of work, I like to ride my motorcycle and go camping,” Palmer said.

Palmer has a son, Andrew, and a dog, Molly.

Kiel has worked here for two years. He simply saw that there was a job opening and applied.

One interesting thing that Kiel does is care for our school’s swimming pool. He keeps it clean, and makes sure all the right chemicals are put in.

Kiel works two jobs, and long hours, but when he’s not working, he likes to ride motorcycles and watch his son play baseball.

Kiel has two sons, Kyle and

Cameron. He also has two dogs, Brewster and Chloe.

Students should definitely say hello or thank the custodians every once in a while. It also helps them if students simply throw away their trash and pick up paper scraps in classrooms.

Opinion

10

The Growl Editorial

The

S

NARL

Chris Critiques:

The vision and planning for technological advancement in the school began a few years ago in a meeting. The vision intends to implement a device such as an iPad as a learning tool for each individual student. The concept was developed in order to extend learning, making it more creative and innovative.

In year one, research for wireless Internet was conducted. In the spring of last year wireless internet was introduced to the school as a whole. This sparked the idea of creating a “tech team” of teachers to work on research for technology.

The tech team visited several schools that had already introduced the device for each student concept. At many of these schools, devices were given to faculty two years in advance so they could better understand how to use them and change their lesson plans.

Having visited several schools, the tech team is unsure which device to use in the school.

“We’re leaning more toward a Mac device

because they have proved themselves in education as a company. However, laptops are more expensive, which is why we chose to pilot a cheaper device, like the Android powered device,” Jimmy Casas said.

It was originally planned that the Modern Language department would use iPads; however, the grant fell through.

Through some matching funds, the school board found a way to pilot the new concept in the social studies department, and Cathy Ahrens, a social studies teacher, began to aid in the pilot of an Android powered device called a Transformer.

Last quarter, the Transformers were used in all three of Ahrens’ classes, and her students shared the devices.

“Overall, the opinions from students were mixed. There were definitely some unfamiliar challenges, and at times it could be slightly frustrating. It was a learning experience for the students, and myself,” Ahrens said.

LGBT represented at BHS?

By Christopher Matheson Staff Reporter

Do you know what LGBT means? Not many students are aware that it stands for Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender. The number of known LGBT students is rising every day, including in this school.

The concern for safety, tolerance, and acceptance has become a standing issue for schools across the U.S. As a result GSAs, or Gay Straight Alliances, have been established in a number of schools as a comfortable environment where LGBT individuals can meet and discuss pressing LGBT matters and issues with non-LGBT friends and supporters known as “allies.”

The school has no GSA or club that offers safe and open discussion to LGBT students. As an open member of the LGBT community myself, I am increasingly concerned with the lack of such a club. I have even started to resent the fact. The lack of initiative in starting a club shows lack of acceptance and a demonstration of ignorance to the LGBT members that are students.

However, I met with Jimmy Casas, and we had a very informative conversation. In discussion with Casas, I found that there were some past efforts to have an outlet for LGBT students.

“A group known as S.O.U.P was active for a long time at school. The group was for unifying different types of people, LGBT individuals included,” Casas said.

However, once the advisor for the club, who was extremely active, retired, the group began to fizzle out and has since disbanded.

I then brought on the subject of words like “fag” and “queer” and

inappropriate use of the word “gay.”

Casas said, “As an educator, it’s my job to make sure that all of our students feel safe, but I will admit that the administration is not always aware of the words students use and we are unable to always make sure that they are using the appropriate language.”

Casas assured me that other LGBT safe zones like the guidance office and the administration office were fully supportive and were always a place for LGBT students to feel safe.

I met with guidance counselor Amy Harksen, who considers herself an ally to LGBT individuals after years of counseling, and we had a very agreeable Lambda, usually in pink, is a LGBT symbol and friendly conversation.

As an openly gay teenager, I rarely feel like I can trust adults, but Harksen’s words proved true and I found myself very comfortable in her office. When I asked about increasing LGBT knowledge through classes or workshops, Harksen agreed 100 percent.

“When we call someone ‘fag’ or ‘gay,’ we lose the ability to learn and that’s the worst of the situation,” Harksen said.

With some members of the student body being ignorant of LGBT feelings and sensitivity, I assumed that same-sex prom dates would be frowned upon.

Harksen said, “There should be no problem with same-sex dates. Like if you wanted to go to prom with another boy that would be fine.”

While having the staff supportive and informed is comforting, LGBT supporters and members will need to help reduce ignorance and hate in the coming years.

February 3, 2012

This quarter, a group of students is able to take the devices home. There was an informational parent meeting about this pilot, and they seemed excited for the new learning tool.

“Having a device for each student in the classroom definitely improves education. It is very resourceful, quick, and saves time,” Ahrens said.

Although many benefits have been highlighted, Ahrens believes there are a few logistics issues and improvements that will need to be worked out.

The Growl staff has some questions about this new advancement.

What’s going to happen when a student loses his or her device? How much would it cost to replace one if it is broken or damaged? What if a student already has the device that is issued? Will there be a lot of challenges in completely changing the learning style of students?

We say yes, a device in each student’s hands is definitely something that our school will see in the future, but we think this process needs to slow down a bit. It is estimated that the roll out will begin in the next two years. How will teachers have time to adjust?

“I feel that the benefits outweigh the negatives. We issue out hundreds of dollars of text books each year, and students lose those, and have to pay for them. It will be very similar to that situation,” Casas said.

We, however, think that these

devices are much more valuable than a text book. Honestly, we would hate to see our school in debt because of irresponsible students that cannot pay for the damage done.

In this age of technology, everything is advancing faster and faster, but that does not mean our advancement needs to be so speedy. Good things come with time, and the more work and time we put into this, the better the outcome will be. The school is taking the right steps by testing things and doing extensive research, but we think that the plan needs to be extended by a year or two.

Our school is prosperous, welldeveloped, and upholds “A Tradition of Excellence.” An entire wing is currently being added to our building. Our school is the first in the Quad Cities to introduce a new cell-phone policy. Google Docs has been integrated school-wide, which is a huge technological advancement and learning tool in and of itself. Currently, the implementation of an individual device seems like a lot to undertake, and while we want to stay up to date and make learning for our students the best it can be, we believe that now appears to be too soon.

The Halestorm: Bett rocks—‘nuff said

By Haley Zapolski Staff Reporter

If I could give an award to the most awesome school, the winner would be obvious; this school of course. I would not just choose it because I go to school here, (although that does increase the awesomeness by four percent), but because we are super awesome.

How can I prove the awesomeness that we are? We have a 97 percent graduation rate, and those who may be part of the three percent are probably just haters who cannot handle the awesomeness, or have agoraphobia and are not able to get to school to witness the awesomeness.

This school has a lot of fantastic programs and activities that other schools do not have. Not every school has a show choir, and if they do, it’s probably not as good as ours. I don’t see Pleasant Valley prancing around and singing on stage.

This school is bursting with talented people too. There are giants who hang out in the weight room and pick up heavy stuff, and I hear that is quite impressive.

I love to see students use the school newspaper to wipe up liquids they spilled. It makes me feel like I am making a difference in keeping this school less sticky.

Also, there are people who love coming to school so much that they don’t wear their lanyards, so they can get invited to Saturday school.

I enjoy seeing students cut others off in the parking lot, drive in the grass, or sometimes even exit out of an entrance!

It makes me proud to see students eager to get home so they can finish their homework.

I love to text my friends during class so I can tell them how fantastic the lesson is that day. On test days, I often see kids texting each other about how they know the answer to all of the questions and they are so excited to get the tests graded so they can show their parents.

In all seriousness, I really do love this school, and when I hear other students say, “I hate this school,” or, “this school sucks,” it breaks my heart, because I think that students take the school for granted and do not realize how great we are compared to other schools around the country.

We have an outstanding graduation rate, exceptional compared to the national average, which is 90 percent, with the lowest being Nevada at 51.3 percent. Just imagine looking at your freshman class, blinking, and then half of them are gone at the graduation ceremony, just a short four years later.

The high school has high academic standards. The average ACT score is two and a half points above the national average.

This school is jammed with spirit and performs outstandingly in sports and the arts. I am proud to be called a Bulldog and I think everyone else should be too.

Obviously this school rocks and if you don’t think so, your opinion is wrong.

Features

11

Surround Sound takes center stage

8

thin

By Allie Weis Staff Reporter

By Christopher Matheson Staff Reporter

Surround Sound, the show choir, was established five years ago by Emily Begnaud, the former director of choral activities. Having competed for four years, the show choir members have expressed great excitement and apprehension for the show choir season.

Surround Sound performed at the Cedar Rapids Prairie exhibition on Jan. 17 and competed at Big Dance at Davenport North High School on Jan. 21.

The Prairie exhibition is a demonstration of multiple schools’ shows, including Surround Sound. The purpose of the exhibition is to show off to other schools and to practice for the competition season.

Junior Tyler Ritter, three year member, expressed his enjoyment of the Prairie exhibition, a demonstration of other show choirs that Surround Sound has received invitations to for the last two years.

“There was a lot of loudness, and lots of fun,” Ritter said.

Kaylee Huber, senior, has been apart of Surround Sound as a singer/dancer for four years, but has been to the Prairie exhibition twice. Huber expected to see great groups and tough competition, and she did.

Huber said, “People attending were prepared for a very serious environment. These groups take show choir very seriously.”

Prairie’s prep group, or the junior varsity show choir, Focal Point performed first, West Liberty’s Voices Unlimited

second, Surround Sound third, Iowa City City High’s 4th Avenue Jazz Company fourth, and finally Prairie’s varsity show choir, Ambassadors, performed fifth.

Freshman Kennedy Knight expressed her excitement at seeing the other groups at the competitions. As an alternate, Knight has the important role of learning the other girls’ dance moves and stage placements.

“I want to see how hectic and busy other groups get and how the pressure feels,” Knight said.

However, Knight has proven that she is up for the challenge and said that she considers herself mentally prepared for the upcoming events.

Huber considers show choir a competitive sport.

Huber said, “It definitely is [a competitive sport]! If you took the most athletic person in school and stuck them in a show choir competition, they would get an intense workout. Singing and dancing at the same time is not easy!”

Ritter said his recommendation for students interested in show choir.

“They should definitely get excited for show choir. Whether they’re watching us, or wanting to join they should take interest because it’s different and not every school has it,” Ritter said.

In addition to the two mentioned shows, Surround Sound competes at Mt. Pleasant’s Music InMotion on Feb. 4 and the Great River competition at the Adler Theatre on Feb. 18.

Surround Sound competes with “I Can’t Make it Another Day” (above) and “Freebird” (below) at the Big Dance Invitational. (Photos courtesy of Walton Photography)

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February 3, 2012

gs do in w to inter

During the wintertime when students cannot go outside, being bored becomes the major trend. This is when the classic “there is nothing to do in Iowa” comes to mind. What people don’t realize is that classic games in the snow or just a lazy day with friends never get old.

Despite this so far mild winter, one of the perks of living in the Midwest is being able to enjoy many activities in the snow.

5: Build a snow family. You can either do it by yourself or with friends. You can choose to build one snowman or many snowmen. It is always fun to add your own personal touch such as scarves, top hats, and gloves. Also, if you’re feeling really creative, it could be fun to make a snow dog, cat, or turtle.

1: Penguin Sled. For this activity all you need is a garbage bag.

First, take the garbage bag and cut a hole in the bottom so it fits like a poncho.

Next, find a hill and sled down it head first like a penguin.

2: Board games. For those days when it is too cold to go outside or when the roads are too dangerous to drive on board games are the perfect solution to spice up a dull day. Games such as Headbandz or Apples to Apples are fun games to play for people of any age.

3: Have a snow war. For this activity grab a group of your friends, and form teams. Next, each team should build a protective fort out of snow. Then, proceed to have a snowball war with all of your friends.

4: Find the best hot chocolate recipe. All you have to do is try out different hot chocolate recipes, and what’s better than hot chocolate on a cold winter day? Nothing.

6: Go bowling. Taking your family or your friends to the local bowling alley could result in a day full of fun.

Whether you get a gutter ball every time or bowl a perfect game, it is always fun to have some competition wearing borrowed shoes.

7: Make a “snowfa.” Tired of sitting around on the couch with your friends wondering what to do? Well, make a couch outside! For this activity you will need good packing snow so that you can make a usable chair. Now instead of sitting on the couch inside, you and your friends can sit on the couch outside.

8: See a movie. Whether it is going to the local movie theater or renting a movie, movies are a good pastime when it is too cold to enjoy the snow.

A Day in the Life

12

February 3, 2012

Reece active every day

By Emma Brindle Staff Reporter

Anyone who knows Jessi Reece knows she is truly one of a kind. Many students’ days are not complete without a visit to her room.

Whether it be her charming personality, wicked sense of humor, striking good looks, or just her ability to brighten someone’s day, Reece always has students in her room, thrilled to see her.

Reece starts her day bright and early at five every morning and goes on a run or takes a trip to the gym. After returning from the morning workout, she gets ready and heads to school.

According to several students, Reece brightens their days while enriching their lives with her great knowledge of the Spanish language.

After school, Reece said, “I do whatever random things that i need to get done.”

On Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays, Reece takes her talents to Gold’s Gym in Davenport to teach spin class.

Adding to her impressive schedule, on the days she teaches spin, she goes back in to work out after class.

In addition to teaching spin, Reece attends spin class on Monday or Wednesday.

At the end of the day, Reece heads home and eats dinner, catches up on school work, or her favorite shows.

“And then I get in bed...I love getting in bed early during the week,” Reece said.

On the weekends, Reece does manage to squeeze in some relaxation time. She takes a break from her five a.m.

A Detroit Tiger fan, Reece shows her pride in the team. wake up and gives herself a chance to sleep in. “I like to get up, make coffee, and watch the ‘Today Show,’ then go back to sleep.”

She also likes to watch football and basketball. Reece still manages to get a long run in, although her weekend schedule is less structured than the weekday.

During the summer, Reece does Summer Fitness in the mornings, and depending on what time she wakes up, goes running before, otherwise she follows Summer Fitness with a bike ride.

She spends a lot of time in Michigan with her family. Reece also loves being out on the water or at the beach, grilling out, and having fires at night.

Reece got involved in all that she does because she loves sports, working out, and anything along the lines of running.

She had always wanted to be a coach out of high school so she jumped on the opportunity to coach track.

As far as teaching spin class, trainers approached her at the gym, seeing her great personality and dedication, and asked if she would be interested in getting certified.

Reece said, “ In five years, I think I will be married and doing the family/kids thing, hopefully with Curtis Granderson.”

In addition to marriage, Reece plans to continue teaching, coaching, and working out regularly.

“I love eating. I have aspirations. I really like to cook but I don’t do it,” Reece said.

Reece’s favorite restaurants are Los Agaves, La Flama, Azteca, and Exotic Thai locally. Big Boy, Hearthstone, and The Omlette Shoppe in Michigan are some of her hometown favorites.

Her favorite books include anything by Jennifer Weiner, both of Tony Dungee’s books, and “The Shack.” Reece loves any show on Bravo and 30 for 30 on ESPN.

Those who spend time in Reece’s classroom in the mornings also know her favorite band is Dave Matthew’s Band.

“I like all music except for country. That is absolutely awful,” Reece said.

Many look at a day in the life of Reece and wonder how she possibly keeps going every day. As far as working out and running, she is motivated to do all of those things to be healthy, have energy, and be in a good mood.

Reece loves being around kids, so despite how her morning may start out, once at school, her day typically improves.

She enjoys being busy, so having too much time on her hands makes her feel ‘blah or grumpy’.

“I try to be the best person I can be, although there are days where I find that to be more challenging... ;) You know, be a good friend, daughter, teacher, role model, etc.. By thinking about those things, I can keep going through the daily ‘stuff’,” Reece said.

A Reece gallery A daily workout is part of Reece’s life (far left and left). During the spin class she teaches, she enjoys meeting people and working with them (right).

Reece’s classroom shows her spirit.

Reece eats a nutricious lunch every day.

World language teachers work together to plan lessons.