2205 Forest Drive SE, Cedar Rapids, Iowa 52403 SurveyorWHS@gmail.com crwashsurveyor.com Volume 55, Number 5 January 23, 2012
“Take advantage of the opportunity to touch people’s lives.” Jenny Vestle, ’12
New crew gears up for Dance Marathon shift in leadership has brought new challenges. “Probably the biggest difference was the fact that when we went to businesses, it wasn’t the original four people, so the owners that would usually talk to [the original committee,] it was now that they were talking to [the new committee.] So it was readjusting and creating new relationships,” said Quincy. “It’s harder to figure out what you’re supposed to do because last year [the original
benefit kids with cancer, throughout the last three years the committee has changed the focus of their The third annual Dance fundraising. Marathon will be held Feb. 3 at the “[After hearing a story of Washington High School cafeteria, a family affected by their child’s but this year will differ from years cancer] we started to focus less on past in that this will be the first year giving money to [cancer] research that the dance will be organized by and more on giving money to a new committee. Ronald McDonald House, Miracle This is Wash’s third year Youth Network which are things hosting a Mini Dance Marathon, that more help out the families, whose proceeds benefit the Univerpeople who are struggling to just sity of Iowa’s Dance Marathon and get basic supplies because they’re the Ronald McDonald House of having to pay so much just to keep their kids alive,” said Quincy. Wash’s Dance Marathon has seen enormous success in past years, raising thousands of dollars for kids with cancer. This success has come about from a combination of student, family, and business Photo Illustration by Katie Nunemaker participaThe new Dance Marathon head committee of Quincy McGee, ’13, Olivia Van Antwerp, tion. Katie Hammond, Jenny Vestle, and Anri Moore, (all ’12.) “Part of it is that committee] took care of a lot of the our school has some of the wealthiIowa City, along with other charitamore important things, like most est families in the city, but also just ble organizations that help families people don’t know that there are a general nature of people want to affected by kids with cancer. lots of corporate donations going be recognized within the school for The original commiton… last year that was just kind doing good and businesses, too,” tee, composed of Lauren Sines, of behind-the-scenes stuff that the said Quincy. Natalie Neppl, Max McGee, and [original committee] did... but they “With highschoolers, with Sam Claassen, (all ’11,) have been prepared us really well, actually,” fundraisers, you have to make it replaced by Olivia Van Antwerp, said Van Antwerp. somewhat appealing as well and Jenny Vestle, Anri Moore and “We have a lot of jobs, but so, I mean, highschoolers love to Katie Hammond, (all ’12,) and we have a lot of people to fill them, dance and highschoolers like to Quincy McGee, ’13. Though this a lot of delegation,” said Vestle. get involved and give back to the is not the first year for any of them Although 100 percent of community so I think mixing both helping with Dance Marathon, the Dance Marathon’s proceeds still is what really makes it succeed,”
Alyssa Christian Editor-In-Chief
said Vestle. “…a lot of times highschoolers don’t know how to get involved so then this bridges the gap for them.” The new head committee members have set goals individually and collectively for this year’s Dance Marathon. “As a committee member… I want do better than last year, not that we didn’t do good enough last year, we raised an incredible amount of money, but I want to just to be able to prove that we don’t necessarily need the four who started it to continue doing it, because if we can do it this year and it turns out to be a success, then I have no doubt that they’ll keep doing [Dance Marathon]… we hope that doing it well this year will help it to continue,” said Van Antwerp. “We’re also trying to make it more of like a WPA, or a Homecoming... making it one of the core dances at Wash so that people, year after year, whether or not we’re getting the donations and stuff, they’re coming to Dance Marathon and they’re dancing, having fun and also just giving a little bit of that to kids that are struggling, families that are struggling,” said Quincy. A common sentiment among the different committee members is the rewarding nature of their experience with Dance Marathon. “The most rewarding element is totally coming and seeing everyone came to the dance and they’re all coming out to support such a good cause and they’re all having fun and just as the night goes on and you keep on seeing how many raffle tickets we’re selling and how much money we’re raising and then at the end it all just comes together and everything just adds up to this huge sum,” said Van Antwerp. “Take advantage of the opportunity to touch people’s lives and contribute to [Dance Marathon],” said Vestle, “even if it’s a small way.”
Help kids with cancer by attending Dance Marathon on Friday, Feb. 3 from 8-12pm in the Wash Cafeteria for dancing, food, and fun and a chance to win an iPad 2! Admission is $7.00. Become a Dancer by raising $50 and receive a T-shirt, free admission to the dance and more!
Inside this Issue n e w s
o p i n i o n s
p r o f i l e s
f o c u s
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Pages 2-4
Pages 5-6
Page 7 &10
Pages 8-9
Pages 11-13 Page 12-15
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Sangamithra Sathian surveyorwhs.news@gmail.com | January 23, 2012
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Monday, Jan. 23, 2012 Sophomore Educational Planning Night, 5:30PM @ Cafeteria Tuesday, Jan. 24, 2012 Jazz Band & Slice of Jazz , 7:00PM @ Auditorium Wednesday, Jan. 25, 2012 Picture Day, 7:00AM @ Main Gym Early Dismissal, 12:30PM @ CRWash Thursday, Jan. 26, 2012 Speech Performance Night, 6:30PM @ Auditorium Friday, Jan. 27, 2012 Speech Performance Night, 6:30PM @ Auditorium Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012 Jazz Band @ State Orchestra @ Off-Campus Show Choir @ State SAT Test Monday, Jan. 30, 2012 Jazz Band @ State Vivace @ State College Planning, 7:00PM @ Little Theatre Thursday, Feb. 2, 2012 Band @ Off-Campus Freshman Orientation, 6:30PM @ Multiple Locations Friday, Feb. 3, 2012 Band @ Off-Campus Progress Reporting Day Saturday, Feb. 4, 2012 Band @ Off-Campus Speech State Contest @ Wash Fab 5, 3:00PM @ Paramount Fab 5, 7:00PM @ Paramount
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Wash administration debates issue of towing
Mikayla Fry Staff Writer
As the weather gets worse, the school parking lots become more crowded and clustered and students are more willing to violate parking regulations. This may be stopped, however, since Washington High School’s administration has thought about starting the practice of towing cars. “We haven’t towed a car in over a decade or longer,” said Dr. Ralph Plagman. Even though Plagman hasn’t thought about towing away cars that violate the parking regulations in a serious manner, if the administration decided to go through with it, he would be in favor. “In certain cases, I would be in favor. They would have to be chronic offenders completely unwilling to move their car. I wouldn’t do it casually,” said Plagman. Students are the primary offenders of these parking violations, and if towing was ever established here at Wash, some could be in major trouble. “I feel that people take advantage of
[parking]. They park in the fire lane all the time,” said Joslyn Ross,’12, “but other than that, I don’t really notice a huge problem with parking.” Ross finds that towing would be fair, just as long as everyone is familiar with the parking rules, so there is no confusion. She also thinks that towing would definitely get the point across and teach people a lesson. Fellow classmate Anna Kline,’12 is in agreement. “I am in favor of [towing] because there would be less parking violations and it would make getting out of the jock lot easier,” said Kline. Kline and Ross agree that there is not a huge parking problem here at Wash; most of those who drive are also able to park well, but towing would solve some of the hassle of trying to exit the jock lot. Even though there isn’t an overlying problem of parking, there is a problem with people who park in the fire lane. “I would be in favor of towing. I mean, if we have a fire, we’re screwed,” said Allison Rogers,’12.
Monday, Feb. 6, 2012 Slice of Jazz, Off Campus Tuesday, Feb. 7, 2012 Freshman Orientation, 9:30AM @ Auditorium Orchestra, 7:00PM @ Cafeteria Wednesday, Feb. 8, 2012 Early Dismissal, 12:30P,M @ CRWash Thursday, Feb. 9, 2012 Sugar & Show, 7:00PM @ Auditorium
Graphic by Sangamithra Sathian
Take a look at this month’s
focus page and visit crwashsurveyor.com Staff Writer Michael Andersland’s article on the subject.
WORLD IN REVIEW D.C. Area Butt Slasher Arrested---------
Forty year old Johnny D. Guillen Pimental was recently arrested after being accused of slashing women on the buttocks with a knife. Fairfax, Virginia police have been searching for Pimental since last summer. He is thought to be responsible for slashing at least nine women in the buttocks at retail stores in D.C. area malls while they shopped. The attacks ocurred between February and July, 2011. All of the victims were in there late teens or early twenties. There were no serious injuries.
Van der Sloot Sentenced to Prison-----------------
Joran Van der Sloot has been sentenced to 28 years in prison by a three-judge panel after pleading guilty to the 2010 strangulation killing of a American business student, Stephany Flores, that he met in a Lima, Peru casino. Van der Sloot gained worldwide notoriety for being accused of murdering an American student, Natalee Holloway, in Aruba in 2005. Van der Sloot’s lawyer said that the Lima killing was a result of the trauma Van der Sloot had after being named a suspect in the Aruba crime. Because of this sentencing, judges confirmed Van der Sloot’s sentence would terminate in 2038.
Briefs by Ian Schweiger Staff Writer
Italian Cruise Ship Capsizes----------------------- Five people have been confirmed dead after an Italian cruise ship, the Costa Concordia, capsized off the coast of Italy in the Mediterranean Sea. Two hours after leaving the Italian port of Civitavecchia, the 290 meter long ship began taking on water after hitting a rock in shallow water. The ship was carrying 4,234 passengers and crew members. Survivors described the scene as “something out of the Titanic”. The captain was arrested by Italian authorities for his role in the tragedy including abandoning the ship before many of the passengers. Divers are continuing to search for missing people that may number up to 40.
Iranian Nuclear Scientist Assassinated---------- 32-year-old Mostafa Ahmadi-Rushan, was killed by a car bomb after passing motorcyclists attached a magnetic bomb to his car during rush hour traffic in Tehran. This is the fifth assassination of an Iranian nuclear scientist in the last two years. The assassination is believed to have occured in an attempt to slow down Iranian access to nuclear technology. Iran claims its nuclear work is purely civilian in order to provide energy, not for purposes of building nuclear weapons, as believed by many Western nations. The Iranian government claims to have reliable information that the Central Intelligence Agency was responsible for the assassination.
News| 3
Sangamithra Sathian surveyorwhs.news@gmail.com | January 23, 2012
Ian Schweiger Staff Writer
As we move deeper into winter, the weather has stayed relatively unchanged from the milder fall months. But, the amount of snow Iowa has received has been less than normal from previous years; this has been both a problem and a blessing in disguise. With the exception of the most recent snow storm, many believe that it has been rather pleasant to walk into school without a large winter coat. Warm weather during the winter season has left those with winter jobs, such as snowplowing and road salting, without a job. Are the abnormal weather patterns caused by “global warming” or something else? “Some people still use the term ’global warming’, but the proper term is ‘global climate change.’” said AP Environmental Science Teacher J.P. Graham. “It’s amazing that until the first week of January, there wasn’t any snow.” said Graham. Research points not to global warming, but rather global climate change. As stated by ucsusa. org, global climate change happens “when CO2 (carbon dioxide) and other heat-trapping emissions are released into the air. They act like a blanket; holding heat in our atmosphere and warming our planet.” Such emissions, created mainly from the fossil-fuels used to power our cars or generate electricity, are a potential cause of Iowa’s warm winter. If the worldwide use of fossil fuels does not decrease, it has been hypothesized that future Iowa weather could be similar to what is now found in southern states, such as Mississippi or Alabama. A more immediate concern brought about by the weather is its affect on local job employment.
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Warm winter weather: is it a double-edged sword? Companies that plow are beginning to lose money due to the lack of snow. Even though companies may lose money if no snow falls this winter, some believe there are alternative jobs for those who plow during humid winters. “[They should do] lawn mowing.” said Evan Hataway, ’13. “Companies that plow usually do lawns in the summer, if there are no lawns to take care of, without plowing, they lose money.” said Graham. According to the KCRG-TV, the city has saved 85,000 hours of compensation for overtime because drivers weren’t called in to plow; this means thousands of dollars saved. Also “Cedar Rapids road crews didn’t have to do any real scrambling to get ready for snow. Eighty-four public works vehicles had plows attached weeks ago. Switching a final dozen vehicles to “plowing” mode by attaching some equipment was all that was necessary to get ready to plow Cedar Rapids city streets.” stated KCRG-TV in an online article. But, many have critized the city’s response to the storm that pounded Cedar Rapids on Thursday, Jan. 12, 2012. “I had so much trouble getting to school that morning. My car was slipping and sliding its way up the Cottage Grove hill; it barely made it up. The city might have wanted to wait for the snow to stop falling before they started plowing, but when its a school morning, shouldn’t the safety of the students have been important? They should’ve plowed regardless.”, said Audrey Rouse ’12. The atypical winter weather has several concerned Cedar Rapids citizens suffering, and some cheering.
PICTURE
Istanbul, capital city and largest city in Turkey, faced a massive power outage, inconveniencing millions of citizens; subway and tram systems were shut down. cc by elishka
Colombian city of Medellin recently installed an outdoor escalator as a way to improve the mobility of 12,000 residents in the poverty stricken area. cc by El Mundo, Economía y Negocios
4 | News
Sangamithra Sathian surveyorwhs.news@gmail.com | January 23, 2012
Caucus News : Nation more focused on Republican race Mikayla Fry Staff Writer
Kiran Misra Staff Writer
The caucus of the Democrats has been in the shadow of the Republicans for the past few weeks, but it, too, was held on Jan. 3 of this year throughout the state of Iowa. There were caucus stations set up across Iowa, one including Wash. “The turnout was enormous for a year when we weren’t picking a candidate. It said to ME that there is still a lot of solidarity behind the President. We heard him speak via closed circuit TV and then there were some speeches about platform. The Coralville theatre holds 500 and it was nearly full,” said Cary Beatty, Democratic supporter and Cedar Rapids Community School District teacher. With all of the media frenzy surrounding the Republican candidates, Democrats enjoyed a quiet caucus. With President Obama as the Democratic nominee for the 2012 presidential election, Democrats are strategizing while Republicans are still deciding who their candidate will be. At the caucus, President Obama was able to address the caucus goers through a closed circuit TV. Democratic supporters could then ask questions to President Obama regarding his agenda. It was just four years ago when Iowa Democrats propelled Obama to the Democratic nomination, and ultimately, the presidency. Iowa’s first in the nation status continues to impact both parties’ potential noiminees. What remains to be seen is who will face the incumbent.
The Iowa GOP convenes Many juniors and seniors are going to experience one of the most exciting privileges of adulthood this November- voting in the November presidential election. Iowa leads the nation in the nomination process, holding caucuses to decide which candidates will represent each party. This year, there was a Democratic caucus where only one candidate was running for the nomination- Barrack Obama, and a Republican caucus, which was far more widely televised and contested. Iowa has 25 delegates to contribute to the election of the Republican nominee, which the winner takes all of. Caucus goers had to be registered in the party of the caucus they were attending and had to be of voting age by the November election. The process lasted two hours and no absentee voting was allowed.
In the Republican caucuses, a representative for each of the candidates was chosen at the beginning of each caucus. These supporters then make speeches about the candidate and “send out representatives to try to bribe participants into supporting their candidates,” explained Isabel Severson, ’13, a caucus volunteer. The vote is then done by secret ballots, which are tallied and the winner is declare. Severson described the caucus process as, “a big community gettogether where everyone gets out to support his or her candidates and get the word out. Many people decide which candidate to be affiliated with based on who has the best cookies or beverages. “ This time, Mitt Romney came out on top by an extremely narrow 8 votes, the closest outcome ever in an Iowa caucus. In second place was Rick Santorum and in third was Ron Paul. The bottom four candidates were New Gingrich, Rick Perry, Michelle Bachman, and Jon Huntsman in that order. Some consider this a projection for the outcome for the rest of the primaries and caucuses, but others disregard the Iowa caucus; there are only a small number of delegates at stake- roughly 1%. Michelle Bachman left the race on Jan. 4, stating on her website to her supporters, “as I have traveled around Iowa, and the country, I have seen the very best in America, our people,” evidence of the Iowa caucuses integral role in the election process.
Above : Photo of Ron Paul, Rick Santorum and Mitt Romney - cc by Gage Skidmore Below: All Republican Caucus photos by Grant Kamin
Opinions | 5
Grant Kamin surveyorwhs.opinions@gmail.com | January 23, 2012
Tips for President Obama Roses
Dear Obama, I’ve got to be honest, I’m a little Russian pen pals disappointed. Way Colber for President 1/2 way done! back in ’08, you Varsity mens basketball were talking up some Linn-Mar Supernova mad heat on some Lewis Blake Hot chocolate hope jibber-jabber, Austin Bergstrum Staff Writer promising both a Winter X-Games better state and bright Red Bull Supernatural future for our nation, and I was right Firefox Chrome Adblock there with you the whole way. With the Mr. Miller current state of things, however, I’ve got Skrillex “Bangarang” to say if you get another four years as New Macs Speach team President, we’ve got to switch up some Iowa Picking presidents stuff pretty drastically. Reddit Order of business number one, Hygene products stop this whole bi-partisan nonsense. I’ve Food samples never been one to put much stock in the Croissants opinions of others, and as President your All you can eat buffet(s) duty is to have your net export of craps Never ending snow given to the opinions of the GOP amount New teachers
to zero. You need to tell congress that the next person who mentions Creationism as a scientific theory to be taught in schools or Trickle-Down Economics gets a presidentail un-pardon and then people might actually start getting things accomplished, and CSPAN wouldn’t be so boring. The attempts at compromise in the present American political spectrum seems like a futile expense and their unworldly, self-interested, and simplistic thinking doesn’t benefit anyone. You’ve got to keep them in order. Given the eleven trillion in debt we’ve managed to rack up, there have been many attempts how we should go paying it back. While Politicians may argue whether or not to raise taxes, some tax payers have proposed we go as far as to sell North Dakota to the Chinese. I tend not to agree with this because Fargo is one of the few places on
Earth where it is illegal to dance while wearing a hat, I feel very strongly about this public atrocity. Rather, I propose we instead sell the inhabitants of North Dakota to Chinese to pay off our debt. The average American’s net worth is around $182,000 and the population of North Dakota won’t quite cover that, but I’m sure we can muster up some of societies other neer-do-wells in order to cover the expenses. On top of that, all the free labor the Chinese would then have would amount the serious savings on new Chinese goods for the American consumer! Good luck in November, and remember if elected again not to be so meek. Another four years would be the real time to be the left-wing, uncompromising, kick butt politician we’re in need of. I hope you make it.
Depressing music
Thorns Republican primary endorsements
Lack of beard warmth Show choir rehersal You hear people Amidst the Ron Paul is the only Crazy no snow days touting “RON PAUL line of Republican Republican candidate with 900 word peoms TWENTY TWELVE” Presidential candidates a real chance of beating Vehicular manslaughter for a reason, Ron Paul Obama. His sensible and ranging from douche VCR’s is revolutionary in a consistent viewpoints to dip-wad, there lies KKK in C.R. strange way. Ron Paul one hopeful, possible, have proven to be correct Creativity is fiscally conservative and dare I say rational, over the last thirty years. Cars sliding down hills Grant Kamin His lack of support from Lewis Blake candidate named Ron Grant Gregory and socially liberal, Consumerism Opinions Editor large corporations and Staff Writer Staff Writer he has the best ideas Paul. Although I don’t Snowplow problems Iranian scientist deaths a GOP candidate the media (I’m looking at you Romney) is agree with all of Mr. Paul’s views, there “Oversleeping” class can offer, he wants to eliminate our are a few points he brings up which I a good thing and the fact that it is replaced December disappearing ridiculous defense spending on benign find compulsively intoxicating. Without with strong support from military vets SOPA/PIPA military campaigns and regulate the getting too far into it, he makes the based upon his non intrusionist foreign Lamar Smith’s Toupee economy less. One idea that he has that most sense out of any other Republican policy shows how real people believe in Atheletes foot seems a little ridiculous is his idea to get candidate I have ever seen or heard of his campaign. His clear vision of smaller The Man out of the modern Keynesian economy and raises issues that Politicians on both government and keeping the government’s Racail profiling and return to the scary free market, sides for decades have chosen to ignore. ability limited to the constitution provides Sherrman’s Smartboard which in the modern economy just seems For those reason, I can sometimes agree the only solution to the current debt crisis Oral Plaque silly, however Paul plans on abolishing with Ron Paul, and therefore endorse that makes mathematical sense. Ron Paul Sequined Uggs Teachers leaving the IRS which is a service that the U.S. him above any other candidate. is the only true option for the Republican desperately needs. RON PAUL 2012!!!!
The Surveyor is established as a school-sponsored open forum dedicated to informing and entertaining its readers. It is published nine times each school year by students enrolled in the Journalism News class at Washington High School. The staff will report as fairly and well-balanced as possible. All activities and news will be covered to the best of the staff’s ability. The Surveyor accepts the Society of Professional Journalists’ Code of Ethics as the basis for good journalism. Editorials and the reviews that appear under a byline are the opinion of the writer, not necessarily the staff. Unsigned editorials represent the majority of the Editorial Board. The opinions section is designed to provide a forum for the opinions of The Surveyor staff and the Washington High School Community. Readers are encouraged to express their viewpoints through guest editorials. The Surveyor also welcomes letters to the editor, with these guidelines: 1. It is not libelous or obscene. 2. It explains the material clearly. 3. It is not longer than 500 words. 4. It is signed.
nomination.
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6 | Opinions
Grant Kamin surveyorwhs.opinions@gmail.com | January 23, 2012
The Washington police state Jeremy Bentham coined it, George Orwell envisioned it, and it’s going on at Wash. The Panopticon EfGrant Gregory fect is the idea that if a society Staff Writer is aware of or witnesses police intervention (or in Jeremy Bentham’s case police brutality) than the society will become self-governing. The idea was first experimented in a prison system where prisoners who stepped out of line were brutalized in front of the entire prison population and eventually after a certain amount of brutality the population became completely self-governing and the prison guards were actually allowed
to cut down staff. Orwell envisioned it with the idea of big brother, this constant fear that we have of a policing state observing and arresting members of society who are disobedient. Now obviously this system is completely ridiculous, no society would ever function like that but it is important to note that specific aspects of these ideas play largely into our lives at home. A very specific example of this concept is Officer Pacer, our SRO. Officer Pacer turns Washington into a “policed” community, not in terms of brutality as I’m sure we all know, but simply in his presence. It’s interesting how Pacer himself is a very friendly guy but the badge that he wears carries implications, it creates a heightened sense of awareness of our behavior, a subconscious
block on specific behaviors that we may have acted on prior to Pacer’s presence. If you look at the numbers it would come as no surprise that the number of suspensions since Pacer has entered the Wash community has decreased significantly. The reason for this isn’t because our disciplinary staff has become softer, but simply there’s a badge at our school, a symbol of a policing state constantly observing and monitoring the hallways. The counter argument typically is that if you don’t break the law you have nothing to be afraid of, which is 100% wrong, because the law is easy to break. How frequently do you find yourself not wearing a seatbelt? How frequently do you find yourself loitering? I typically loiter anywhere from 3-5 hours on an average weekday, how susceptible am I
to getting a ticket? Everyone except for arguably Katherine Bergman has broken a few laws in their day (even you, Mr. Throndson) and the fact that you have, or will, means that you have a constant subconscious fear factoring into every single decision you make. There’s nothing to avoid it and it isn’t a burden on society by any means, this constant fear creates structure in society that wouldn’t exist without a policing state. That ticket you get for misbehaving travels further than you think, it isn’t the actual punishment that causes people to behave, it’s the physical fear that is associated with the ticket, the idea that at any moment in time you could be disciplined by the policing state, and that is indefinitely an asset to society.
Republican attack on our right to vote This year’s Iowa caucus was the first and sadly the just before the last speaker I was handed a pile of pamphlets entitled “Rules last I will ever go to. A week’s worth of hype from every for Revolution” featuring a grainy black and white photo of our President major news network and even beamed directly into our with similar pictures of socialist leaders. classrooms via Channel With the complete lack of representaOne. And when there was tion of voters my age at the Republican a commercial break becaucus it comes as no surprise that Retween calling our caucus publican controlled states all around the Grant Kamin the most influential part country are attempting to cut down on Opinions Editor of the primary process, youth voting through aggressive disenfranyou could count on there chising legislature aimed directly at kids in being an add from a candidate themselves or high school and college. Laws not allowfrom their un-coordinating Super PACs that ing voter registration with a school issued let you know how important it was to caucus. license, laws stopping those who paid out When I arrived the Republican of state tuition from voting, and another caucus at my precinct I was disgusted to law in Maine that got rid of election day see a near complete lack of youth, besides registration, which surely wouldn’t be a the boy scouts that were dragged along, in problem for the horde I met at the caucus. full uniform by their parents. Instead of the This isn’t just wrong , it’s also invigorating youth based grassroots movecompletely the fault of students who will ments that would be working to win me over be able to vote that didn’t attend a caucus. to their side with thoughtful arguments that I’ve heard enough of why Obama is ruinI had expected, I sat down in a room with a ing our country from my fellow students horde of old white people and waited for even who also conveniently didn’t go to a A republican caucus at Kennedy High School Grant Kamin caucus. Step your game up Republicans, stop older people, who couldn’t quite grasp speaking into a microphone, to get up and give short speeches on why their candidate would create deliberately attacking my ability to vote or get ready to see the utter dominathe most jobs and stop the most gays from getting married. To top it all off, tion of the political scene by Democrats for as long as there are young people.
Canada: the final solution Evan Lehrman As you well know, Guest columnist
America is under immense pressure of being the world’s greatest hegemonic power. We control the world in a way that does not befit our power, we allow other countries to push us around and change our priorities. We should no longer be soft, we need to rise up and use the great strength this country has accumulated. Today, more than ever, global competitors are rising and we have become dependent on them for products. China currently provides us with more than 90% of the rare earth metals we need for crucial technologies for national security. Do you know where there are large deposits of rare earth metals? Canada. My simple question: why not just invade Canada? This would solve all of America’s problems.
One of the major problems in America is the foreign dependency on oil. Canada contains one of the world’s largest oil sand reserves in Alberta and non-sand reserves in Western Canada. Recent estimates show that Canada has the largest oil reserves after Saudi Arabia, capable of creating 3.1 million barrels a day with current production. Almost all of America’s needs could be met almost immediately if all of these production facilities were taken over. In this way America could power all of its military without having to deal with other countries restrictions on oil sales. Simple. Canada would also offer the rare earth metals that we need for our own security. Currently several countries have a very aggressive military stance in the world. Among the most prominent are China and North
Korea. Right now in China’s military strategy, if we ever engage them in any military standoff they would attack our space assets, which would cripple our country, and rare earth metals are key to rapid reconstitution of these satellites. Without these resources China would have a huge tactical advantage if this scenario occurred. This is why it is key that we take the initiative to get the resources from Canada and weaponize space to pre-empt any further attack. Everett Dolman, a Professor of Comparative Military Studies at the US Air Force, says that, “Complete domination of space would give the United States such an advantage on the terrestrial battlefield that no state could openly challenge it. Traditional war would be effectively over.” Invading Canada would be the means to end war. The means may risk a few American
lives but it would end all wars. Invading Canada would initially draw great controversy from the world. But the world at large would be effectively able to do nothing. Even now we have by far the most technologically superior army. No one not even China could match our dominance in war. NATO would try and “stop” the situation but the majority of their funding comes from the US and all of the allies of Canada are allies of the US. They would have a conflict of interests and would be unable to act. Now is the crucial time. America is in decline now and we are losing our edge. If we do not act soon, the privileged life you are used to will end. Never before have we been at this juncture. Canada is the only option if we want to survive as the strongest country in the world.
CJ Cooper surveyorwhs.profiles@gmail.com | January 23, 2012
Profiles | 7
Recent alumni set for an early start at Iowa
Evan Fisher Staff Writer
M o l l y
B r o w n
Te s s a
Tu r n e r
What school are you going to attend? University of Iowa.
What school are you going to attend? University of Iowa.
What will you study? Theatre major.
What will you study? Physical therapy and/or psychology.
Future plans outside of college? Getting my masters.
Future plans outside of college? Physical therapist.
Incentives for graduating early? No school, and to live in Florida with my grandma.
Incentives for graduating early? A fresh start.
What are you most excited for? Decorating my dorm.
What are you most excited for? Meeting new people.
What are you least excited for? Sharing a bathroom.
What are you least excited for? Absolutely nothing.
What will you miss most about Washington? Dr. Plagman and McMann.
What will you miss most about Washington? McMann.
What are your extra curricular activites at Wash? Surveyor.
What are your extra curricular activites at Wash? Soccer, dance team, cross country, show choir, bowling.
What are you extra curricular activivites at Iowa? Theater.
What are you extra curricular activivites at Iowa? Undecided.
Overall feeling about graduating early? Awesome.
Overall feeling about graduating early? Sickening and relieving all at once.
*Grace Mantangira is also an early graduate, but was unable to be contacted at this time.
Graphic by Tori Wheeler
Bleach blond bachelor MJ Kamin Staff Writer
Walking through the halls of Washington High School, you’ll recognize Kai Vorhies, ’15, because of his familiar bleached blond hair. Vorhies is involved in swimming, cross country, and orchestra at Wash; as well as a church group outside of school. His dream date would be going on a bike ride to the top of a mountain to watch the sunrise. He would like a girl who is smart and kind to others with nice eyes and a nice smile. Vorhies believes his best qualities are his kindness and humor. “I’m a lot more respectful than other guys,” said Vorhies. Although he isn’t looking for an immediate relationship, he would be willing to start one if he found the right girl.
Freshman Favorites Word Search
Favorite Food: Tacos FavoriteSport: Swimming Favorite Color: Purple Favorite Band: Weezer Favorite Season: Summer Favorite Class: AP Human Geo Photo Illustration by Lauren Johnson
2012 8 | Focus
[ ] The end of the world The Mayan legacy
or just
Amy Parker, Staff Writer
The Mayan civilization, reaching their highest state of development between 250 and 900 A.D., are known today for their advancements in art, architecture, math, and astronomy, as well as for their distinct calendar system. They created three calendars, one involving history, one to synchronize with the solar year, and another to be used for ceremonial purposes. This elaborate and precise calendar system is even more accurate than that of which we use today. The calendar used for historical purposes, which has been widely studied by historians, is called the “Long Count.” Through reading and interpreting the dates, scholars have concluded that December 21, 2012 marks the end of this “Long Count,” the end of a 5,126-year era. This conclusion has created much uneasiness throughout the world, with many wondering: Will the world really end, or is it a wrong interpretation of the thousand-year-old calendar? “The Mayans are just misunderstood,” said Kelly Aull, a World History teacher at Washington. “They state the calendar never ends, just starts over.” No articles or books are left to fully understand what the Mayans meant by the conclusion an era, and there is no explanation of what happens after the calendar ends, leaving the population today with differing views on exactly what will happen. “People worry about it because it brings a new fear of the unknown, which is a scary thing,” said Aull. Or could proof be right in front of our faces that the world is concluding? Predictions of nuclear war, a biblical judgment day, global warming, one big earthquake, and overpopulation made by scientists add some unknown aspect of the future. What we do know, with today’s technology, is that December 21, 2012 brings us a mystique from the stars known as the Galactic Alignment. This alignment will happen on the predicted December day during the winter solstice when the sun will be aligned with the Milky Way for the first time since 26,000 years ago, creating a disruption in energy. “I think people believe the world will end because they just want something to believe,” said Natalie Oakes, ’15. “Even though it just doesn’t seem possible.” The Mayans may not have realized the anxiety they could hurl onto future generations, but we are left to wait to see how December 21 turns out. Whether they meant to predict the end, a new beginning, or just a change, they have fully impacted our lives through their advancements of their time.
2[ ]
Francesca Hidalgo-Wohlleben surveyorwhs.focus@gmail.com | January 23, 2012
Starting the New Year off right Madeline Berg, Staff Writer
]
The most common New Years Resolutions include quitting smoking and drinking, getting out of debt, losing weight, spending more time with family, and enjoying life in general, according to www.livescience.com. This year in particular, being the long prophesized 2012, has influenced some people to have altering resolutions than in previous years. “To be nicer to the people I don’t like,” said Lydia Kratovil, ’15, when asked what her new years resolution is. While Kratovil seems dedicated to keeping her resolution, many people do not stick to them. “Yeah resolutions are important, but no one keeps them,” said Shelby Leeper, ’13. Leeper’s opinion is heavily supported by facts. Despite even the greatest aspirations, approximately 22% of people break their resolution after one week, 40% after a single month, and 81% after the full year, according to www.psychologytoday.com. However, this website also offers some tips as to how you can have a better chance at maintaining your goals. These include setting extremely specific goals, looking at the progress being made on a regular basis, and maintaining good self-control. If such high percentages of people break their resolution anyways, what is the point in making them? “To make the world a better place,” said Kratovil in response.
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What would you do if you had one more year to live? “[I would] rob a bank, you know, live on the edge, take a jet, jump out of jet, parachute onto a mountain, snow board down mountain, go swimming...living the good life.”
a new start?
Trevor Luebe, ’13 Abby Todd, ’14
“I would want to travel to France and become a foreign exchange student.”
Photo Illustrations by Jessica Erb
New year, new you. Many people make resolutions to help better themselves in the New Year.
“I would try to visit another country or something. I’ve never left the Midwest, and I would regret never having experienced all the things I could.”
Michael Peterson, ’12 Hannah Jonasson, Staff Writer
10 | Profiles
CJ Cooper surveyorwhs.profiles@gmail.com | January 23, 2012
Band substitute or permanent director?
Nick Hansen Staff Writer
Returning to high school after college probably is not a thrilling prospect for most Washington students. However, for Pam Schroeder, the new assistant band director, returning to Wash has been a great experience. The Wash administration found themselves in a difficult situation in mid December when former band director Brad Messenger was placed on administrative leave. Following Messenger’s departure, the school immediately began searching for a replacement. Band Director James Miller called former Wash Band director Steve Shanley who, at the time, was in Chicago attending a band conference. Also in attendance at the conference was Schroeder who was graduating from the University of Iowa the next day. Schroeder began substituting immediately and was later given a replacement contract following
Schroeder conducting the Wash Band.
Messengers formal resignation on Jan. 4. “I felt like I caught a huge break, it can be extremely difficult to find good teachers in the middle of the year,” said Principal Dr. Plagman about the school’s most recent addition. As a member of the Wash class of 2007, filling the performing arts wing with beautiful music is far from new for Schroeder. When attending Wash as a student she was a member of numerous vocal,
Photo Illustration by Lauren Johnson
orchestra, and band groups. She was a member of several honor bands as well, including two years as an All State participant. Schroeder continued her musical career at the University of Iowa earning a degree in Musical Education and Trumpet Performance. She was also a four-year member of the Iowa marching band, being a section leader for two of those years. Additionally, Schroeder served as the assistant band director of the New Horizons Band.
Schroeder has taken a liking to directing band, which she now prefers to playing. She especially enjoys working with the Jazz bands and is looking forward to participating in the upcoming competitions. As part of the replacement contract Schroeder is scheduled to direct the band through the end of the year. After that the school will open the position to all applicants for a formal and permanent contract. Schroeder is reluctant to say whether she will apply for the position in the future, noting that she has only had the job for a few weeks. “She’s really organized and I think [she] will be a positive addition to the band program,” said band member Abbie Foster, ’14. Many Washington band students, like Foster, are hoping that Schroeder gets the position and will be at Wash for years to come.
Graffiti passion at Washington: Evan Fisher Staff Writer
There’s nothing like the size and scale of the detail put into an eye-catching mural. At Washington High School, a new mural was created by Tim Westrom, ’13, near the lunch room and it has most likely caught students’ eyes at the very least. “It was my dad’s idea,” said Westrom, “but it’s something I enjoy so I thought, why not?” It all started at the beginning of the school year. After the idea was made, it was brought up to Principal Dr. Plagman. Design after design was created until there was one that both Tim, his dad, and Dr. Plagman agreed upon. When everything was set in stone, it was time to paint. Westrom worked 12 hour days from Monday morning until Saturday night over holiday break. It was sketched out on the wall with pencil and then painted in. With the long hours and the clogging paint cans, it was not an easy job. “It took me a lot longer than I expected, but it turned out better than I expected,” said Westrom about the mural.
The mural surrounds an academic display case, in hopes of drawing more attention to Wash’s academic achievement. The graffiti design of the mural was created to contrast the other more historic and older looking displays of Washington’s achievements. Westrom started his hobby of drawing graffiti around eighth grade and shockingly hasn’t had much practice actually painting it. “I was actually surprised I could even do it,” Westrom said, “because people think it takes artistic ability to paint or draw, but I simply followed something I was passionate about.” The mural, which was originally created to give a sense of school pride for what the school has achieved, seems to have connected especially well to the student body. “Not only does the mural show Wash’s academic achievements, but it adds to the cool atmosphere at Wash as well,” said Olivia Altemeier, ’14. “The new mural near the lunch room is just one more reason that I love Wash,” said Elliott Althoff, ’12.
Photo Illustration by Jessica Erb
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A&E | 11
Chloe Kohl surveyorwhs.a&e@gmail.com | January 23, 2012
The Hunger Games take over
Shanay Gonder Staff Writer
Just when it was doubtful the popularity of Harry Potter would be outdone, Twilight was introduced to the teen-sphere (teen, used here lightly). Its moment in the spotlight has been well-lived, until now. Another series looks to challenge and reign victorious over the more preternatural picks of the last decade.
“The Hunger Games”, “Catching Fire”, and now, “Mockingjay”, by Suzanne Collins, all bear an inventive plot with quick pacing. It is possible that the series has become so well-liked because it strikes a fear in the hearts of its readers and makes us consider what our world could become on a post-apocalyptic planet. With the understanding that having a blood-sucking lover is unlikely and the common sense to sorely swallow the fact that Lord Voldemort may never actually show his nose-less face in real life,
Series at a glance
Chloe Kohl A&E Editor
“The Hunger Games” pays homage to a far-fetched possibility. A possibility that is up for grabs to all of those who care to entertain end-of-the-world scenarios. “The Hunger Games,” as depicted in the series, are an annual event in which a group of children from each of the remaining 12 districts on Earth, which are far from desirable, are forced by the government to fight one another to the death on TV. The story line is exactly the same story line you would’ve predicted to upstage Twilight, too, right? Chosen by lottery, two children cc by GoodNCrazy from each district are dumped into a immense arena where they are required to navigate through traps and hazards. The last child alive wins a lifetime of luxury and fame, as the entire globe watches. At first glance, it’s hard to ignore that the lack of erotic content and overall predictability of the plot, that are common place in popular teen literature. But when one digs deeper, it becomes more difficult to ignore the new phenomenon’s addictive qualities and the finesse at which Collin’s writes it in.
Politically corrupt future America is full of desperation, especially for necessities like food. The fight for nourishment is literal, and the arena harvests more than starvation.
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Sequel to “Hunger Games”, the Rebellion in hand, the games are back in force. Government still in totalatarian control, the people have had enough.
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The last in trilogy, the years of ignoring human rights and phyiscal travesties has gone beyond what the government can control.
The Greek Place dilemma Oliver Hammond Staff Writer A landmark on the southeast side of Cedar Rapids for 36 years, The Greek Place is relocating to a building next to Burger King on Mount Vernon Road and switching to carryout only. The Hadjis have owned The Greek Place for 36 years and was created by brothers Basil and Bemetrios Hadjis on Basil’s 21st Birthday in 1976. After so much time spent being married to the restaurant, downsizing will mean less work as they grow closer to retirement. “We are looking to downsize to fewer employees and less work,” said Katie Hadjis, general manager. They will be closing at the current location over the next couple months and try to open at the new location late spring to early summer. “The menu will have Greek food, American food, and pizza, it will be similar to our current menu.”, said Hadjis. The menu will continue to have the same popular menu as the current Greek Place and Sweet Basil’s Pizza. Sweet Basil’s Pizza, which used to be an independent
“We are looking to downsize to fewer employees and less work”
-Hadjis
restaurant moved to The Greek Place location. It will be moving with The Greek Place to the new location and will continue to be carryout. A Kum & Go will be replacing The Greek Place after the move if the rezoning laws pass. The rezoning petition plan is to rezone The Greek Place along with four other houses to make room for the new convenience store. City council members were recently split in a three to three vote over the rezoning. The 24-hour service station could cause traffic issues or danger for the nearby elementary schools.
12 | A&E
Kitty McGurk surveyorwhs.AE@gmail.com | January 23, 2012
“Dragon Tattoo”: a freaky flick
Being a highly professional and serious journalist such as myself, it was without doubt that I would be that girl with the mini notepad and the pen Kitty McGurk at the movies. However, A&E Editor one might not consider me as masterly as I believe myself to be if they took a look at my notepad after the movie “The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo.” Upon returning home from the movie theatre, mind you it was three hours later, I had one singular word written in my notebook, “wtf.” A movie such as this one, demolishes any chance of filling up a notepad with facts and thoughts throughout the movie. Firstly, my eyes were glued to the screen the entirety of the movie and secondly, my mind was completely baffled at all times. The starting credits were loud and in your face and frankly, they scared me. The movie transitions from a troubled and twisted girl with a torturing past to a dysfunctional and intimidating family of wealth and power
Playlist: bearded bands*
Chloe Kohl A&E Editor
1. Close My Eyes (Live)- Matisyahu
6. Who Knows Who Cares- Local Natives
2. I Can’t Go for That (No Can Do)- Hall and Oates
7. The Sky Above the Sky Below- Red Animal War
3. The Battle of Hampton Roads- Titus Andronicus
8. Can’t Keep- Eddie Vedder
4. Sharp Dressed ManZZ Top
9. Tighten Up- The Black Keys
5. Chinese ChildrenDevendra Banhart
10. Do Ya- Electric Light Orchestra
*moustaches included
trying to solve the long lost mystery of a family member’s disappearance with the help of a struggling journalist (for all of my James Bond fans, this part is played by Daniel Craig, yum.) Unfortunately, this is where my actual explanation of the movie ends. I will claim that this is because it’s review but truly, I couldn’t start to summarize this movie for you if my life depended on it. “The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo”, in all of its glory, deals with rape, antisemintism, murder, and torture in a three-hour span of time. Given that all of these matter are already touchy subjects, the movie finds a way to make every factor outdo its definition in the most disturbing way. This is my warning; do not suggest this for family movie night, unless you’re looking to outdo the definition of awkward. Along with disturbing the viewers, these varying factors also wildly confuse those who have not read the highly recommended books. Although the movie succeeded in confusing me, I was not in denial to the fact that “The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo” is an outstanding production with the potential of being one of the best films the year.
The man behind the beard Chloe Kohl A&E Editor Religion is a touchy subject when applied to popular music. It’s not so often an artist with explicit beliefs heavily influencing their music, can make radio hits and rise to fame. Matisyahu, the once Hasidic rapper whose beard and top hat gave him his memorable stature, has shaken fans and pop-culturists everywhere when he shaved off his beard as a testament to a new chapter in his spirituality. Born Matthew Miller, Matisyahu goes by his Hebrew name. He was raised under a Reconstructionist form of Judaism and went to Hebrew school but found he’d rather take hallucinogens and follow the band Phish on tour. His rebellion was cut short when he went on a trip to Israel to explore his Jewish identity. A new man, Matisyahu came back an Orthodox Jew, a decidedly more strict and literal interpretation of Judaism. Matisyahu was following Jewish law with the long, untrimmed beard. It is forbidden to shave with a razor- one may cut the corners of beard with scissors or trim a moustache if it gets in the way of eating. This is usually only followed by the Hasidic Jews, and Matisyahu followed this practice until recently. “I felt that in order to become a good person I needed rules—lots of them—or else I
“I am reclaiming myself- trusting my goodness and my divine mission”
-Matisyahu
would somehow fall apart.” said Matisyahu on his blog on his official website. “I am reclaiming myself; trusting my goodness and my divine mission.” Matisyahu and his fans alike see this as another beginning for his faith and his music. Without the beard and hat, he’s no longer the “Chassidic reggae superstar” and will cease to be confused with a rapping Amish man. For those attached to his beard, he gives compensation. “And for those concerned with my naked face, don’t worry…you haven’t seen the last of my facial hair.”
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A&E | 13
Kitty McGurk surveyorwhs.AE@gmail.com | January 23, 2012
John Kopec Staff Writer
Photo courtesy by Kelly Bryant
As displayed via twitter, the new frozen yogurt shop, Orange Leaf, is gaining much appreciation from Washington High School students. As you enter the doors of Orange Leaf you are greeted with lively and vibrant colors. The atmosphere is ideal with colorful tiles lining the walls and modern chairs and tables throughout the cozy space. “Delicious and fun! It’s trendy and has so many different flavors. It’s something new that we didn’t have before,” says Lauren Gesing, ’12. Unlike other ice cream shops in Cedar Rapids, Orange Leaf is unique in that it offers you the opportunity to mix and match your own sundae by yourself with a variety of toppings and frozen yogurt flavors. Orange Leaf provides sixteen flavors of frozen yogurt every day and the choices shift all the time, ensuring that you are never bored with the same old thing. You can always find your favorites such as strawberry, chocolate, and
brownie batter, but on any other given day, different fun flavors such as New York Cheese Cake, Mango, and Cherry are available for your creation. Unlike the original chocolatevanilla twist we all adore, Orange Leaf provides the consumers with a middle bar to combine a variety of flavors and create your own masterpiece. With self-serve yogurt dispensaries installed and given the choice of two ice cream bowl sizes, XL and XXL, it’s hard to control portion sizes. Even if you are wise enough to shut off the yogurt dispenser at a reasonable time, you are still overwhelmed by the topping bar where there are temptations such as candy, fruit, cookies, and even cereal. This “kid at an ice cream shop” excitement that most costumers get is exactly what Orange Leaf is hoping for because customers are charged by the ounce. If not just creating a fun new place for Wash students to buzz about, Orange Leaf in general has proven that Cedar Rapids is actually trying to offer us with more trendy places to enjoy.
Looking to spice up your life? Winter is cold, friends are flaky, parents are annoying, homework is painful, tv is worthless. Pick up a book and read, kiddos.
Shanay Gonder Staff Writer
There’s nothing quite like a good ole’ Palak Paneer or Lamb Biryani at lunchtime to commence the start of the afternoon on a half day. In fact, Taste of India, newly relocated to its current location just off of Old Marion Road, is the perfect place to get your Indian on. Whether you have a large group or are looking to have an intimate meal with a significant other, Taste of India’s party room, which seats up to 23 people, or the cozy, authentically decorated booths or Indian tables are a perfect fit. On my most recent lunchtime visit to the restaurant, I enjoyed the very affordable “Taste of India
Platter” which includes three of the day’s main entrees with an overflowing basket of savory pancakeesque delights otherwise known as, Naan. The presentation of the meal in its entirety was extremely aesthetically pleasing. The platter came complete with vibrant curried-colors and was bestowed before me in such a fashion that it resembled the Indian equivalent of the Kid Bento box at Sushi House. Pictures were taken with my cellular device to commemorate such a landmark in food presentation, but it was the freshness and explosion of such vibrant and exclusive flavors unique to Indian cuisine that had me effusive. Additionally effusive, that is, because the spices initially had me blushing. The new location has proven an economically smart move due to the additional space and steady influx of Rockwell Collins employees who
come to dine on familiar fare as well as socialize with others in their native tongue. This interaction lends an even greater feeling of authenticity to the warm, ambient space. If the 6’ plus mural of the Taj Mahal has you skeptical upon arrival, bear through it and mosey on past the buffet, open Friday through Sunday, which is sure to leave your taste buds aching for a drop or two of some mango chutney or sweet Gulab Jamun. My Palak Paneer was ravishing, and not simply because Dalabi, an extremely helpful and informative waitress, served it. I plan on returning for an evening experience during which the three levels of spice intensity will be sampled and conquered. Before leaving however, be sure to play the game of “Where’s the Shisha?” because the restaurant is even complete with an authentic Indian Hookah.
14 | Sports
Joe Berry surveyorwhs.sports@gmail.com | January 23, 2012
NCAA, time to move on to playoff system or continue the pageantry of bowl season?
Peter Holmes Staff Writer It’s time. It’s definitely time. I have come to the conclusion that bowl games don’t interest me anymore. There are too many of them and all but one are worthless. This year’s Discover Orange Bowl was the first time I have ever turned off a bowl game and went back to homework instead. It seemed like Clemson and West Virginia were playing flag football, allowing over a hundred points and 1,000 yards. The
reason: no motivation to play defense and win the game. In 20 years from now, nobody will remember who played in that game. Do you know what happens to a bunch of oranges after a few weeks? They rot. A simple solution to bring the anticipation and excitement back to college football is a playoff system. College basketball has one called “March Madness.” If a clever name is needed then maybe college football can be called “December Dementia” or “January Jubilation.” College players bound for the NFL should experience a playoff
Upsets are what fans live for. A playoff system would provide upsets, and most importantly, determine who the real champion is. The best team can be beaten with the right circumstances. atmosphere before they enter the league. Creating an eight-team system might conflict with the athlete’s academics, but then again, who studies anymore? One or two losses would not eliminate a team from title contention;
just make it more difficult to get in the playoffs. All the subjectivity of human and computer polls would also disappear and the rankings would only be based on the number of wins a team has. Little schools like Boise
State and TCU would finally have their chance to prove they can compete with the big conferences. Or on the flip side, it will shut them up when they lose in the first round every year. Upsets are what fans live for. A playoff system would provide upsets, and most importantly, determine who the real champion is. The best team can be beaten with the right circumstances. Take for instance, the Green Bay Packers. They were the number one seed coming in the playoffs with an impressive 15-1 regular season record. The New York Giants, who finished 9-7, had gained some confidence with
consecutive victories in the previous weeks. With a little luck, solid defense, and a rare bad day for Aaron Rodgers, the Giants pulled off the upset. I bet more people watched this then the “Little Caesars Bowl,” on Dec. 27. I realize that prestigious bowl games like the “Rose Bowl” and “Sugar Bowl” are tradition rich bowl games that would have to disappear with a playoff system. The sport of college football is evolving and a change in the near future is essential for fans and the players. It’s time.
Do you think the NCAA should keep bowl season or switch to a playoff system? NCAA should implement a playoff syetem NCAA should continue use of the Bowl Championship Series
20.44%
79.56%
*Data collected from 137 students in LA classes at Wash
Upcoming in Sports Super Bowl XLVI Men’s Swimming Districts The climax of the professional football season, Super Bowl XLVI, will be played on Feb. 5, in Indianapolis, IN. The halftime show will include Madonna, and Kelly Clarkson will be singing the national anthem. Mixed in with some great football and arguably better comercials, it will definitely be a night you won’t want to do any homeworkd.
The Washington High School men’s swimming team will be competing for their 48th consecutive district title. One of the greatest high school sports records, the team’s streak will be put to the test on Feb. 4, at Jefferson High School The Warriors are currently ranked fifth in the Iowa High School Swim Coaches Association’s power rankings. No team in their district is ranked higher.
Sports | 15
Joe Berry surveyorwhs.sports@gmail.com | January 23, 2012
Lombardi takes over as head baseball coach Joe Berry Sports Editor This coming summer, Washington Head Football Coach Tony Lombardi will add yet another loop to his lanyards, this latest one containing keys to the baseball field. Lombardi was appointed the new face of Warrior Baseball in October after a tumultuous 2011 season that saw the previous head coach, Bryon Schlotterback, step down after just two practices. While Brent Henry filled the vacant coaching spot as interim head coach, Washington administration began searching for a permanent replacement and sketching out a long-term plan to rebuild the school’s baseball program. According to Lombardi, he approached Washington Principal Plagman almost immediately after giving the matter careful consideration and expressed an eagerness to take over the position of head coach. “I knew the
program could use help,” Lombardi said. “But I wanted to make sure I could do a good job, that even with the time commitment I could do a good job and not compromise.” For their part, Plagman and Warrior Athletic Director Paul James were eager to hire someone already in the building. “Our baseball program is on life support,” said Plagman, “we need to build a program from within... we really needed somone here talking to our athletes everyday.” Many, however, wonder how his new duties will affect summer training for football. Lombardi is reportedly planning the summer so that those athletes at the school who want to participate in both baseball and football. He feels that one reason the baseball team has struggled the past few years is that students are unable to commit to two sports during the summer. As a result,
Lombardi is addressing this issue and encouraging baseball players to try football and vice versa. That the two programs overlap in terms of training makes it easier for athletes to do both. The summer program for football typically has been from 6:30 to 8:30 a.m., Monday through Friday. Because the first hour is strength and conditioning, baseball players would train alongside the football players, then have an hour to relax and grab something to eat before returning for baseball specific training at 8:30. Lombardi laid out a hypothetical day: If there is a baseball game at five, he would have the baseball players do their strength and conditioning, then they would do some hitting or pitching to warm up in the morning before returning for their game at 4 p.m. “I want the kids to have fun,” Lombardi said. “Go to the pool, go to Bever and go swimming. It’s summer!”
Lombardi points out other scenarios for the baseball team as well: “Imagine we are coming back on a bus at 11:30. I’m right with you. I don’t want get up at six to come to school. I’ll say ‘don’t show up until 7:30,’” said Lombardi. Lombardi would like anyone who has ever played baseball to consider joining the team. He is focusing on fixing the time issue so that players can be on the team but also enjoy their summer. “I want the athletes to be able to have their free time,” said Lombardi, “I’m human too. I don’t want to be at school 18 hours a day.” Lombardi says he appreciates the work that student athletes put in and knows that it is an extra commitment during the summer. “I know that a sport is a big commitment to your school, not to mention you are doing this during your summer,” he said. “I see that and appreciate that.” Graphic by Joe Berry
Robert Hogg looks back at his high school runnig career Reid Rossberger Staff Writer
Sporting a beard that rivals the manliest lumberjacks in the world, Rob Hogg, ’12, is very hard to miss in the hallways. This is not the case on the track, though. Hogg, captain of both the track and field team and the cross country team, will sprint by so fast that you won’t even notice he was in front of you. Hogg is a sensational athlete at Washington High School. After completing his senior year, Hogg will have run four years of both track and cross country, played basketball for two, and played baseball for five. It is a mystery to many how Hogg is so dominant on the cross country course and on the track. “I intimidate everybody with my beard,” Hogg humbly infers. Hogg’s high school cross country
career finished up this fall with a top 20 finish at state. He was the second finisher for the Warriors, helping them place fourth. Even more impressive is the fact that Hogg has been to state with the team all four years. “I love cross country. The best part of the season is hanging out with the team,” said Hogg, “We do crazy stuff.” Last year, Hogg set a new Warrior record for fastest time ran by a junior for a 5k cross country race, with a time of 16:15 In season for the cross country team involves intense training. “We run at least once a day, sometimes even twice a day, totaling at least 60 miles per week.” Head cross country coach and the distance coach for track and field, Willis Harte, has coached Hogg for every track and cross country season in his high school career.
“Rob leads by example. He never misses a practice and works hard and is very smart. He is everything you want in a runner,” said Harte. To the common man, the off-season sounds hard enough. “We usually just run five times a week, and five to seven miles each run. The team then lifts four times a week.” Hogg’s intense life doesn’t slow down off the track, he is involved in Momentum, Madrigals, and questionably the most strenuous club, Math Team. “All of these are awesome in their own ways.” Hogg is extremely respected by his peers, says teammate Etienne Nzoyisaba, ’13, “I love Rob; he is so cool and grows a beard so fast.” “He’s been a critical part of the team all four years,” Harte said. He may have to
trim this flowing mass for the upcoming track season. The track team has high hopes for the season. “We have the pieces to be as good as we were in my freshmen and sophomore years,” said Hogg. He recollects his sophomore year when he had his most memorable moment in high school athletics, winning the state title in the 4 x 800m dash. Hogg has his mind set on a four year college, he just doesn’t know which one. “I definitely want to pursue running both track and cross country in college.” As for plans for prom, Hogg is an open man. “I don’t have a date yet,” said Hogg. Did you hear that freshmen girls? Captain of the both the track and cross country teams is single, he may have just enough room in his heart for you, probably not though, that beard takes up a lot of space.
trips 3trips in5 to state to state different ByThe 4 track Numbers cross country (so far) events Rob Hogg:
Photo illustration by Katie Nunemaker
Robert Hogg, ’12, thaws out his beard after a chilling winter run.
16 | Back Page
Katie Nunemaker Surveyorwhs.photo@gmail.com | January 23, 2012
Sports Past Present to
Basketball 1962
How uniforms have changed
Cheerleading
2002
2012
Basketball transformed from shorter to longer both in their sleeves and shorts, while going the opposite direction with socks going from longer to shorter as the years passed.
1969
Tennis
1991 2012
1999
2008 2012 1980 Tennis evolved from polos and tall socks into t-shirts and tanks, and like basketball, from tall socks to short socks.
In Cheerleading we see the most change. In the late 1960s women wore sweatshirt like tops with skirts almost touching the knees. As time went on into the 1900s, sweatshirts turned into tshirts and skirts got shorter. Moving into the end of the 1900s, shirts became tank tops. Lately, we’ve been seeing tighter, less pleated skirts, and sometimes tank tops, while other times long sleeves when it gets cold.
Wrestling 1978
2012
1962 In Wrestling we see the long pants slowly turning into shorts.
Sports
Unchanged & Discontinued
Baseball
Football
Cross Country
Men’s Diving
1969 1976
1979 Photos Courtesy of Washington Monument, Lily Gasway, Kara Mclaughlin, and Katie Nunemaker
1989
Men’s and Women’s Gymnastics
1976
1976