cWr
surveyor Volume 57
Issue 8
21 March 2014
about us... mission
The Surveyor is established as a school-sponsored open forum dedicated to informing and entertaining its readers. 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. Readers are encouraged to express their viewpoints through guest editorials. The Surveyor also welcomes letters to the editor, with these guidelines: it is not libelous or obscene, it explains the material clearly, it is not longer than 500 words, and that it is signed.
non-discrimination policy
It is the policy of the Cedar Rapids Community School District not to illegally discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, religion, creed, age (employment only), marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, and socioeconomic status (students/program only) in its educational programs and its employment practices. There is a grievance procedure for processing complaints of discrimination. District employees with questions or a grievance related to this policy should contact Jill Cirivello, Director of Human Resources, 319558-2421; jcirivello@cr.k12.ia.us. Students and others should contact Rhoda Shepherd, Director of Student Services, 319-5582964; rshepherd@cr.k12.ia.us. The District mailing address is 2500 Edgewood Rd NW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52405-1015.
editors
MJ Kamin, Editor-in-Chief Hannah Jonasson, Managing and Photo Editor Michael Andersland, News Editor Eric Loeffelholz, Business Manager Michelle Zumhof, Arts and Entertainment Editor Andi Lawrence, Profiles Editor Ian Schweiger, Sports Editor Bridget Williams, Opinions Editor
staff members Elijah Wolter Amy Wilkie Cameron Williams
Matthew Andersland Lauren Barber Elijah Wedel Mitch Fisher Chris Harrington Brandon Cullen Mikayla Frye Evan Fisher
adviser
Kyle Phillips
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Meet the Staff
Hannah Jonasson Managing Editor
what’s inside? 4
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news
Japanese Exchange Students School Related Spring Break Trips Mr. Clancy Goes Hard on the Teachers Union
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Controversial Addictions: -Coffee -Tanning -Smoking -Cellphones
Basketball Wrap Up Spring Sports Previews College Signers
sports
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Student Spotlight: Alisa Gerhold Album Review Misson Creek Music Festival Restaurant Review: Great Harvest Bread Co.
a&e
opinions cover story feature:
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Religion in School Twitter Question OTM School Poll
FBOM Riley German Johannes Hoericke
profiles Managing Editor
Hannah Jonasson
Cover by: MJ Kamin Cover model: Hannah Jonasson
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Hannah’s Location of the Month: How close is Religion to our school?
photo Table of Contents
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KonnichiWash! Michael Andersland News Editor For the past two weeks, six students were immersed in a foreign school and experienced the culture, language, and recreational activities of their peers in a foreign country. These were the Japanese exchange students from Koyo high school in Okinawa Japan. In Japan, high school lasts only three years, high school students there are the same ages as sophomores through seniors in America. The exchange students have just finished the equivalent of sophomore year. One host teacher travelled with the group, and the teacher and students each stayed with a different host family, mainly with the families of seniors in Wash’s Japanese program. The students had been studying English for three or more years before taking the trip to America. Okinawa has a fairly warm climate, so for many of the students it was the first time they ever experienced very cold weather and snow. A typical day for the students started in the Japanese room with an assignment from their host teacher. Afterwards they accompanied host students to their classes, or did other activities such as visiting local elementary or middle schools. They also visited Brucemore and Coe College, and attended the St. Patrick’s Day Parade. On the weekends and after school the students got to experience recreational activities like bowling or ice skating. They even took a field trip to the Mall of America in
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News
Photo by Michael Andersland
Japanese exchange students and their the Cheese Factory in Kolona Iowa. “[The best part of the program host students is] my students’ growth. They Minnesota. On the weekend the take leadership positions, take students and their host family chose responsibilty, and their language other activities to do together. skills and confidence improve,” said In past years the students would Julie Cain, the Japanese teacher at visit a place like California or New Wash. “They also make lifelong York after their two weeks at Wash, connections, there have even been but this year they’ll be heading students and hosts who attended home immediately afterwards. each other’s weddings,” said Cain. Emilee Pettit, ’14, a first year The exchange program has been Japanese student at Wash, was around for 20 years, and was set the host for one of the exchange up by the Japanese teacher who students, Moe Tsuha. “I thought preceded Cain. Students have come hosting a student would be a fun to Wash from Japan during 18 of experience, and a good chance to get those 20 years, and every two years more of a taste of their culture while Wash students go on an exchange teaching about America,” said Pettit. trip to Japan during the summer. Pettit and Tsuha took a trip to visit
Michael Andersland News Editor
Spring Break Around the World
Mikayla Frye Staff Writer
From Washington D.C. to Antigua, Guatemala, Washington High School students and staff are packing up and heading out over Spring Break. James Burke and Sarah Howell, both Spanish teachers at Wash, are taking a group of 18 students to spend Spring Break in Antigua, Guatemala. During their stay, the group will spend time involved with service projects and getting to know the people. “It will be a nice combination of building houses, distributing toys, toothpaste and other commonalities to families, and also just walking around and meeting people,” said Burke. In August 2013, Burke and his daughters, Elena, ’14, and Emily, ’16, went with a different group to Guatemala. That trip inspired Burke to make a similar group at Wash. “I was always interested in an off-beat program to start, and this is perfect for kids,” said Burke. The trip is not only a service intensive experience, but is also focused on improving and exercising the Spanish skills of those involved. Even though Antigua has a large English speaking population, there is a large native and Spanish influence. The participants will be staying with host families, which will allow for them to experience the Antiguan culture. “I like how it’s a service based project but I am also especially interested in international studies and
News Editor
Michael Andersland
Photo courtesy of Elena Burke A newly constructed house in Guatemala
practicing my Spanish skills,” said Maggie Mischka, ’15. Meanwhile, Amy Jones, a psychology and history teacher at Wash, will be chaperoning a group of 15 to Washington D.C. For five days the group will travel around Washington D.C. to participate in many social studies related activities. Some activities planned include a tour of the Library of Congress, sightseeing at Williamsburg, and a trip to Ford’s Theater. “I want the students to have a deeper understanding and appreciation of our nation’s history and a better sense of cultural identity after the trip,” said Jones. Whether it’s to enhance social studies education or to build houses for the less fortunate, many Wash trips over Spring Break will teach its students and staff valuable life lessons.
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Clancy, Hero of the People Matthew Andersland Staff Writer
Peter Clancy, an AP Human Geography and AP Literature teacher here at Washington has missed at least one class period on a total of 21 days this year. This number is so high because of many reasons including the relatively normal debate tournaments and being sick, but there is one more reason that is quite unique, he is in a teachers’ union. A teachers’ union is a group of teachers that works to improve circumstances for teachers and students by bargaining. The specific union that Clancy is in is called the “Cedar Rapids Education Association” (CREA). He has been in this union as a teacher for 8 years, ever since he first became a teacher. He was in the union as a student member in college, which was a very good learning experience for him. The majority of teachers are probably in a teachers union said Clancy, but the reason he misses so much school is because he has a higher position than the other teachers. “I am the Co-Vice President of the union”, said Clancy when explaining his position in the group. Clancy joined the group for multiple reasons, including to help him become a better teacher,to earn better wages for teachers, and to try to create a better atmosphere for students and teachers as well. A downside of CREA is that it has meetings that often occur at odd hours of the day. The
meetings are often during the school day, causing him to miss class more than he would like. There are also large conferences that occur all over the country, causing him to miss entire school days and possibly even sets of days just for one conference. “A reason that the union is so important to me is that it helps give me a voice to shape the education system policy,” said Clancy. As a union they are trying to get more money to come to education, as Iowa as a state has around $1,500 less education dollars per student than the national average. This not only affects the students’ learning, but also the teachers’ pay and quality. “My grandmother was a teacher and at that time, she only made $500 in a year, this inspires me to try to make a difference.” said Clancy. One of the big accomplishments that Clancy and his union have helped make possible, was a large raise in school support and aid that occured last year. School funding got raised as well. “I just want the students to have a better environment to learn, as well as making teachers’ pay a little bit more fair, considering the work they do.” Clancy plans to stay in this union for years to come.
Photo by Matthew Andersland
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News
Michael Andersland News Editor
Right photo by Chris Harrington
Middle by Hannah Jonasson
Left photo by Chris Harrington Bottom by Bridget Williams
Texting, It Can Wait Personally, I wouldn’t say that I’m addicted to my cell phone, but isn’t the Lauren Barber first step to Staff Writer beating an addiction admitting you have one? On the weekends, and sometimes even in class I find myself aimlessly scrolling through a variety of social media sites just waiting for the newest photo or tweet one of my classmates, or even a complete stranger has posted. After I’ve refreshed all the sites a probably embarrassing amount of time I get off and think to myself, “Why did I spend all my time doing that anyway?” Social media and cell
Opinions Editor
phones have become an absolutely massive part of our youth culture nowadays and to put it bluntly, I think a lot of us have become addicted. “Yes, I do think students are addicted to their phones,” said Amy Jones, psychology teacher, “Because it’s a social life line, teenagers get 99.9% of their validation from their peers and phones are seen as a way to keep in contact and get that validation.” After reading back through her answers I realized that I totally agreed with her, the amount of likes or favorites I’ve gotten on a social media post did raise my self esteem and getting agreement from my friends meant a lot more to me than I’d ever even realized. My favorite quote Jones gave me was this, “The irony of cell phones is that teens
Bridget Williams
perceive them as a social tool, which they are, but teenagers don’t realize that they’re breaking down their face-to-face social skills and phones actually prevent them from living in the moment.” This really resonated with me, as I thought back to past concert experiences or sporting events, I realized that a lot of the time I could look around and count at least 20 people uploading some pictures to Instagram or tweeting instead of really living in the moment and having the experiences that everyone else was having. Next time you’re hanging out with friends or out doing something, take some time to put down the phone and really live in the moment. Remember, Twitter, Instagram, or anything else in the digital world can definitely wait, so don’t forget to put your phone down once in a while.
Opinions
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Staying Awake
It’s 3 A.M. My heart is pumping. My fingers are shaking. I don’t think I’ve blinked in the past hour. My foot is rapidly tapping. I’m scrawling numbers across a page trying to jam pack all the information Bridget Williams from this last term and keep up on all of my homework. I Opinions Editor haven’t had any real sleep in two weeks, but I’m alert and awake. I can feel the caffeine running through my bloodstream as I gulp down another cup of coffee. I’m another out of millions who has been sucked into the caffeine craze. The most recent study on caffeine consumption, an analysis by Pediatrics, showed that 73 percent of children consume caffeine on a given day. Students everywhere feel they need more time, and they’re finding faster and easier ways to get it. “I started taking them [caffeine pills] this school year because there have been many nights where I’ve needed to stay up late for school projects or homework and sometimes chugging coffee doesn’t sound ideal. Also for the next morning, I don’t usually give myself much time to make coffee, and the caffeine in pill form is easy to take and prevents me from
E-Cigs on the Rise
Although the conflict over cigarettes isn’t new, similar products such as hookah and E-cigarettes have caused newfound concern for regulators of these products. Over the past few years hookah and Cameron Williams E-cigarettes have become increasingly popular with Staff Writer younger generations, specifically middle and high school students. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, E-cigarette use more than doubled among middle and high schoolers from 2011 to 2012. Studies about hookah show that use in the past year among college students ranges anywhere from 22 to 40 percent. Most of the opposition about these products comes from concerned physicians that even nicotine free versions of the E-cigarettes and hookah pens encourage
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Opinions
being completely dead in my classes the next day,” said Meredith Fisher, ’15. Caffeine is only the beginning. An anonymous student balances AP classes, work, and Adderall, a drug meant to treat ADHD. This is growing to be the super drug for some students when it comes to staying focused. “In order to help me stay focused on my school work, [this school year] is super stressful and my grades are lacking and I decided to give it [Adderall] a try, I heard it was awesome and I definitely agree,” said the anonymous source. The counterargument is that students can’t manage their time, but the point is there’s a serious problem. Sleep loss amplifies all the characteristics of a typical teen; trouble concentrating, mood swings, nervousness, but it’s also linked to lower levels of Human Growth Hormone, essential to brain development, physical growth, and the immune system. All I hear are students complaining about going to sleep at 2 A.M. We’re desperate for time, and we’re finding new ways to get it. We have to keep up with work and the teachers have to keep up with the curriculum. If you find yourself digging to the bottom of your bag for quarters the day Adastra sells coffee in the foyer, like me, you’re probably addicted.
smoking habits that are hard to break. The variety of flavors that are marketed like candy are especially appealing to the younger generation. According to the CDC, even though electronic versions of these products may seem safer very little is currently known about these products. Although E-cigarettes are new to the market, traditional hookah use began in ancient Persia and India. Although these products aren’t new to the U.S. market, their popularity has recently surged within the young adult community. Hookah is traditionally smoked using a water pipe and the user usually inhales 90,000 millimeters during a typical session. Because of the way that hookah is smoked even nicotine free versions put the user at a risk of respiratory diseases. Smoking hookah can also put the user at risk of infection if the pipes are not cleaned properly or if the mouthpieces are shared between users.
Bridget Williams Opinions Editor
Tanning
Andi Lawrence Profiles Editor Tanning bed addicts beware: minors using tanning beds in Iowa may soon be a thing of the past. State legislators have been working on a bill that would prohibit 16 and 17 year olds from being able to tan, even with the consent of a parent or guardian. Who should be able to decide if 16 and 17 year olds tan? Their parents or state legislators? The law should be kept how it is now, which allows children over 16 to tan with parental consent. Tanning is a very bad thing for your skin and can contribute to skin cancer, but like smoking cigarettes, drinking alcohol, eating fast food, etc., it should be the choice of the individual (or in this case their parents) to decide if they want to do that to their body. If parents want to let their almost-adult teens tan then why should anyone care? Parents should be the ones monitoring their children’s tanning. They should know the facts about how harmful tanning can be to the skin.
In recent years, Texas, our neighbor state Illinois, and other states have passed a similar law banning minors from tanning. Also included in the bill being considered is a clause that tanning salons must post signs about the risks of tanning. I do support that part of the bill because it would help educate people about the risks of tanning and then people can make an educated decision on their own whether to continue tanning or not. For me, the only time I’ve been tanning is to get my skin ready for spring break by going for around five minutes because I burn very easily. Recently I found out that doesn’t actually help to prevent sunburns on vacation but I think many teenagers would like to know they have the option. Kate Nash, ’15, agreed on the topic of the proposed bill and said, “It should be your choice to tan, if it’s ok with your parents.” I think the legislators should work on regulating how often or how many times a week people can go tanning, instead of banning it completely for minors. For teens, it’s hard for us to think about how tanning will affect our bodies in thirty years because that’s so far away. But maybe if we appeal to vanity, teens will reconsider. (Google wrinkles pictures lol).
ROSES • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
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All snow melted in 5 seconds DQ MoShow Finally got my money right Learning to whistle Good year to be a senior Winter term over If you’re happy and you know it, Olé -Jovon WPA Canceled Just kidding that’s bad Adastra coffee during finals JANE GOODALL MEETING JANE GOODALL FROZEN ON DVD
THORNS
Term 2 finals schedule Term 3 just starting Bad year to not be a senior WWIII Fences Humid replacement classrooms Construction AP Bio overload Gas leak in Surveyor Lab Driving from third to fourth hour NO SLEEP TILL FINALS Not having double lunch Disney lawsuits that don’t let me use Frozen picture.
Top cc from Shawn Campbell Bottom cc from commons.wikimedia.org
Opinions Editor
Bridget Williams
Opinions
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Washington PTA Congratulates the 2014 Reflections Nominees
Literature
Breanna Linville Anji Misra Visual Art
Erica Cole Musical Composition
Nicole Rizer
Reflections is an annual contest for the creative arts. This year, the four Wash students listed above submitted entries that are currently being judged at the state level.
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: “Yes. It allows kids to be more open minded about religions other than their own.” “No cause I feel like it would start more drama and more fights.” “To a certain extent.” “No, because school should be a neutral zone for those kinds of things.” “Absolutely, school is a place for learning, discussion, and somewhere that you should be able to have civil discussion about important things.” “I don’t care as long as it’s not forced on others, offensive, or extreme.” “Religion should not be taught in school. I think we shouldn’t talk about it in school at all. Ever.” “Depends on the situation.” “No, being religious has nothing to do with education and it shouldn’t be.” “Yes, as long as it in a respectful way and you aren’t pressuring anyone.” “No everyone should keep their religions to themselves.” “Yes, everyone has a right to an opinion.” “I believe students have the right to voice their opinion but not to harass with them.” “Yes, but not on school sponsored t-shirts or posters.”
Editor-In-Chief
MJ Kamin
Feature
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: MJ Kamin Editor-In-Chief
A
With contributions from: Bridget Williams Opinions Editor
lthough students who attend public schools don’t have mass or take religious ed classes, religion is still a part of many students’ lives at Washington High School. Any student is allowed to voice their opinion when it comes to religion - they are allowed to wear shirts or necklaces with religious symbols. Teachers are not allowed to voice their religious opinion. Religion may not come up very often in regular day to day classes. The time when it might closely relate is when evolution is brought up in biology classes. At Wash, students are taught the theory of evolution as a part of their science courses. “When I start talking about evolution, the first day that we start talking about it, I make it very clear that we’re doing this unit regardless of their religious background,” said Jessica Johnson, who teaches biology and AP Biology at Wash. Some of Johnson’s conversations about evolution have led to discussion about different theories. It is okay for religion to be brought up in class at school as long as the discussion wasn’t initiated by a teacher. However, Johnson hasn’t had any problems with students arguing about the creation of life - she allows an open discussion to avoid conflict. “I explain that I am teaching them the theory, and that I am teaching them the evidence that supports that theory, and whether they choose to believe it or not is their choice but we will not bring religion into it. I lay down the law pretty much right away,” said Johnson. While what the students are being taught in class might conflict with their beliefs, Johnson believes it is important for all students to learn different sides of the argument. “I always tell them that if they’re really that against it, it’s going to make your argument more valid if you understand it,” said Johnson. Another place where religion coincides with school at Wash is through the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. FCA, a nationwide organization, meets every Monday during lunch. The group of about 15-20 students is open to anyone, not just athletes. The teacher sponsors are Randy Ray and Sandra Metzger. As a student in high school, Ray was a member of FCA.
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Outside of FCA, Ray sometimes encounters religion in the classroom as he teaches. “Yeah, we’ve talked about that, because also in history we’ve talked about that, and sometimes a student talks about their faith. You know, even a Muslim, we’ve had that before, I’ve had Muslims in my class from foreign exchange students, and we’ll talk,” said Ray on the subject of religious discussions in class. The mission of FCA is to spread faith in schools but not just faith, kindness as well. They do all kinds of activities - this month they spent their lunch period watching a religious-based movie. Other times they spend their meetings talking about faith or day to day issues. For Daniel Rosenthal, ’15, FCA is an important part of his time at Wash. “It’s a break in the regular school day routine and just meet up with some friends who share your own faith,” said Rosenthal. But for Rosenthal, it’s not all about the religious side of FCA. “Even if you don’t believe in God, or believe in Jesus, if you ever, I guess, have felt lost or really [discontented], you should come check it out,” said Rosenthal. While some students link religion and school, others keep them separate. For Curtis Litow, ’14, who is Jewish, has never had a problem with his religion at Wash. In fact, Litow doesn’t feel conflicted about what he learns in school and what is taught through his religion. Whether with the students or teachers, Litow has always felt comfortable at Wash. “Wash is a really chill place,” said Litow. One of the unique things about religion is the holidays. For students at Wash, we are given a “Winter Break” every December to take the Christmas holiday off. Students like Litow, who celebrate other holidays, don’t get time off from school. But, for Litow, that time is used celebrate Christmas with his family as well - his mother is Christian. As for the time off being called winter break, “Honestly, I agree with it. Obviously, because everyone isn’t Christian, they shouldn’t call it Christmas break,” said Litow. Religion plays a major part in many student’s and teacher’s lives at Wash - from clubs to the day to day topics in biology class.
MJ Kamin Editor-in-Chief
This poll was taken from LA classes. 175 students were asked:
On a scale from 1-10, how religious are you?
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Editor-In-Chief
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Feature 13
Johannes Brohannes A
round 4,500 miles away and across the Atlantic Ocean is a country called Germany that happens to be the home of one of our exchange students, Johannes Hoericke. Though Johannes has been here for a while, he already has some favorite things he’s done, such as joining the swim team. “The whole team was cool, say something about them having a lot of spirit,” said Hoericke. In addition to swimming, he also really likes the food. “I eat a lot. The food is pretty good,” said Hoericke. In Germany there are no Doritos, Sour Patch Kids, Taco Bell, Panchero’s, or Kum & Go. However, something he’d still like to do before he leaves, is travel the country some more, especially to California. There are some differences between school here and
Lauren Barber Staff Writer
in Germany. “People in Germany take more showers, people are nicer here, and also there is more swag here and teachers are nicer and more acceptable. I like the diversity of classes you can take here more,” said Hoericke. Since Hoericke has been here, the U.S. has affected him. “My choice of words is different, I use more hashtags (#sweg). Also my English is better.” While he’s been here, Hoericke has made some lifelong friends such as Sophie Smith,’15 and Anica Aguiar, ’15. When asked what their favorite thing about Hoericke, their answers differed. “His dimples,” said Aguiar. “He’s really funny,” said Smith. When it cam to what makes him different from Americans, Aguiar mentioned his style and Smith commented on his ‘swagalicious’ accent. Other than his style and accent, Smith and Aguiar enjoy Hoericke’s use of slang words. “This is sausage to me, it means I don’t care,” said Smith. “Pups, spelled ‘P-O-O-P-S’, it means farts,” said Aguiar. There is one thing that Hoericke wants everyone to know about Germany. “We are not all Nazi’s, and not everyone is like Hitler,” said Hoericke.
Matthew Andersland Staff Writer Attention ladies: If the man of your dreams is funny, has nice earlobes, good hearing, and an exponentially increasing love for Doge, then you should definitely not skip past this article. Patrick Gorman, ’17, fits the bill for all four of the above requirements. Gorman is looking for a girl who is funny, smart, “unannoying”, and has equally nice earlobes. If you are interested in this intelligent bachelor, you should consider seeking Gorman out on the track, in the pool or running around Cedar Rapids with the cross country team. If you can’t find him there, he Photo by Matthew Andersland may be at home playing “GTA V” or watching “The Walking Dead.” He might also be jamming out to his favorite song, “Raindrops,” by Frederic Chopin, or a number of different songs by his favorite bands, The Zombies, or The Dog is Dead. Once you do find him, a good way to win his love might be to give him the thing that he wants more then anything in the world: his own planet. Or if that is too hard to obtain, a platypus would work too. When it comes to what’s important in his life, he follows a simple mantra. “Spodermen and Doge is lyfe,” said Gorman.
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Profiles
Andi Lawrence Profiles Editor
Elijah Wolter Staff Writer A lot has changed in the life of Andre Dawson, ’10, since he graduated from Washington High School four years ago. Originally he signed to play football at UNI, he later transferred to Iowa Western Community College and then made a final transfer to the University of Iowa. He left the Hawkeye football program last spring to focus on supporting his family and other pursuits, namely acting and writing. “Football was once a dream, but I’ve always loved making people laugh and being on Dawson in the 2009-2010 camera so why not pursue Monument Yearbook something else?” said senior year Dawson. Dawson began his foray into filmmaking when he transferred to U of I. His roommate was in film school and enlisted Dawson and their other roommate, and former Warrior, Keenan Davis, ’09, to assist with filming and acting in productions. Iowa City has remained filmmaking home base for Dawson. Most of the projects he’s been a part of, whether he is writing, acting, or assisting with production, have been based in or around Iowa City. He worked alongside actor Brandon Baker (of “Johnny Tsunami” fame) on production of the 2013 film “The Formula,” which was shot in Iowa City. Another project Dawson recently partook in was a web series pilot written and directed by Will Roberts, ’12, and Neel Ghosh, ’11, that followed the lives of two friends in their early twenties. “Andre played an exaggerated, cartoonish version of himself, and it fit perfectly into the episode,” said Roberts. Dawson was also helpful behind the camera, offering up his apartment for the afternoon for filming and allowing Roberts and Ghosh to film at a New
Andi Lawrence
Profiles Editor
Year’s Eve party he threw. “I’m not much of a filmmaker as I am an actor and writer, but filmmaking comes along with the process of doing both. The reason I got into filmmaking was because I wanted to be as hands on with all my projects as I could. Therefore the more I learn about everything in filmmaking - acting, writing, lighting, and directing - the less I have to pay people to do,” said Dawson. His holistic approach to working in the field has helped to shape his personality on set in a positive way. “I learned from [filming “In Between”] that he’s a very genuine person. He’s legitimately friendly. It’s easy to see why people like him so much. Of course, he’s also very funny, which he balances well with professionalism on set. He keeps things light while being ready to go at a moment’s notice,” said Roberts. Dawson has a willingness to not only seize the opportunities he’s offered, but to seize them wholeheartedly and go the extra mile as an actor and a member of the production team. This, in addition to his fun personality on set, has led him to being a part of a variety of productions on both sides of the lens, and will undoubtedly lead him to many more. “It’s all about having drive in what you believe in, and making it happen,” said Dawson.
Video still used with permission from Will Roberts Warriors Andre Dawson and Keenan Davis acting in “In Between”
Profiles 15
Always Equestrian Andi Lawrence Profiles Editor Alwaysequesetrian99, or Riley Girman ’17, has a love for horseback riding but leaves time for sports at Washington High School including cross country and golf. Outside of school, Girman balances her time between horseback riding and school work. When asked how she got into horseback riding she said, “My mom brought it up because she used to ride. We found a barn and did some research before we visited the barn.” Girman rides English style which involves doing jumps and is close to what is seen in the Olympics. She takes lessons at Greenbriar Riding Academy which is also where she learned to ride. Girman’s own horse is kept at Duncan’s boarding barn in Mt. Vernon. “His name is Earl, he’s a black quarter horse, and he’s 14.2 hands high,” said Girman. “Hands high” is a the way horses are measured and each ‘hand’ is equal to four inches. Making Girman’s horse almost 5 foot tall at his back. Girman keeps up the with the equestrian community with her Instagram AlwaysEquestrian99 (see below). She has almost 900 followers.
She got this idea from a friend who was also involved with horseback riding. Girman uses her account to share pictures of her horse, other horses at the barn, and to see other people’s equestrian accounts. Many people wouldn’t be able to handle the time commitment that comes with horseback riding but Girman does. She has a lesson every week and rides her own horse as often as she can. “I have to do my homework before I’m allowed to go see my horse. Sometimes I don’t get to see Earl as often because of busy weeks like finals,” said Girman. On thLisa Nicol, a French teacher at Wash, coaches Girman in cross country. “She has a great attitude. It’s hard to be involved in two things at once but she stays very focused and is dedicated to both,” said Nicol. Girman hopes to keep horseback riding throughout her life. Her goal is, “To be a better rider and get people more interested in riding because it is sport.”
Photos courtesy of Kim Girman
Girman’s Instagram
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Profiles
Girman and her horse, Earl
Andi Lawrence Profiles Editor
Conclusion of a Hoops Season Chris Harrington Staff Writer The 2013-14 Men’s Basketball and Women’s Basketball seasons have come to a close with strong achievements and high hopes for the next season. The Men’s team finished with six wins this year with a few heartbreak losses and nail-biting wins. “I thought we kept fighting but we lost a couple of games we shouldn’t have,” said Jake Kramer ’14. With next season in mind the Warrior men will keep fighting through and continue to improve. “The future looks very bright we have some great classes coming up. They should have a good shot to advance to state next year,” said Kramer. Right: Jake Kramer, ’14, hands the ball off while being defended in a game against Cedar Rapids Jefferson. Photo by:Rik Powell
Photo by: Nicole Rizer
On the Women’s side of the court, the Warrior ladies had a fantastic season finishing 18-5 and winning the conference title. Unfortunately, the Warriors fell short 79-71 to the Southeast Polk Rams, ending the magnificent playoff run earlier than expected. “Overall, it was a successful season. We worked hard, stayed focused, and had a ton of fun,” said Dani Franklin ’14. Although a strong senior group will be leaving the team this May, the future is bright for the upcoming Warrior Women. “I definitely think because of how strong the junior class, they can go far and do big things next year,” said Franklin. Left: Aleena Hobbs, ’14, drives to hoop against defenders in a game against Southeast Polk.
Sports Editor
Ian Schweiger
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Men’s Soccer and Tennis Previews Ian Schweiger Sports Editor
The Washington men’s soccer team, led by Jake Bjornsen, ’14, a Western Illinois signee, is trying to make another state berth. “We have a bunch of young guys, but we have the potential to make it back to state,” said Bjornsen. Bjornsen has set some goals for himself including being named a 1st Team All-State selection and to be the best leader in his last season. As for Head Coach JP Graham, the only goal in sight is bringing the State Championship back to Washington. This will be difficult
Brandon Cullen Staff Writer
as the Warriors first few games include match-ups against reigning State Champion Iowa City West and Cedar Rapids Kennedy. “Our younger players have to take on a larger role. Our success depends on them,” said Graham. Some individuals to watch for include Mike Eken, ’14, Alex Kennedy, ’14, Evan Fisher, ’14, and Gunnar Lenzen, ’15, Austin Cook, ’15, and Ethan Hammer, ’16. The Washington men’s tennis team returns three varsity players
Elijah Wolter Staff Writer
after losing more than half of last year’s roster to graduation. Among the returners is Jackson Hoyt, ‘16, who finished in fourth place in the State doubles tournament last year. “Our goals are to make it to State individually and as a team,” said Hoyt. The men’s tennis team is looking for a big contributions from many underclassmen, including Dane Van Antwerp, ’16, Jack Parmley, ’16, and Parker Muller, ’17.
Women’s Soccer, Tennis, and Golf Previews The Washington women’s soccer team is looking to rebuild after last season after losing many players at key positions, including keeper. Although the team is young, the team appears optimistic. “State is our ultimate goal, but we just want to have a good record, win tough games, and just have fun,” said Olivia Altemeier, ’14. The team is looking for a big impact from newcomers Hallie Cooper, Hannah Sherman, Maggie Clair, and Kelly King, all ’17. The Washington women’s tennis team is led by Lilly Hartman, ’15, and Rina Moore, ’14, who were the State
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Sports
Runner-Ups in doubles last year. Their collective goals include making it to State individually and as a team, as well as being conference champions. “I think that we have one of the strongest teams since I’ve been at Washington,” said Moore. Hartman believes that the team will be helped with group of incoming freshmen as well as many returning varsity players from last season. As the snow melts and green returns to the landscape, the women’s golf team gathers up their gear and prepares to hit the links. “I am excited to get back this this group of girls we all get
along really well,” said Kandis O’Donnell, ’15. The women’s golf team boasts several returning varsity members this year, including O’Donnell, as well as MJ Kamin, ‘14, an Iowa State signee, who finished 6th at the State tournament last year. The team’s pre-established camaraderie and support for each other will no doubt benefit the team this season. However, the team isn’t completely reliant on returning talent. “We have a lot of new players joining which is great,” said Brett Visser ’16. This blend of seasoned and fresh players keeps the program both experienced and expanding.
Ian Schweiger Sports Editor
Strong People Write Names Ian Schweiger Sports Editor On Feb. 13, Washington honored six athletes who announced where they would continue their athletic careers. Among these individuals were Jake Bjornsen, ’14, who signed to play soccer at Western Illinois University, Bria Lenten, ’14, who chose to play softball at Loras College, Jasmyne Jones, ’14, who decided to run track at Wartburg College,
and Clayton Bjornsen, ’14, who elected to play football at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater. Football players Austin Schuttloffel and Kaine Cooks, both ’14, decided to continue playing together at Iowa Central. Below are some photos from the Signing Day ceremony last month. Top Left: Jake Bjornsen, ’14, introduces his parents at the Signing Day ceremony on Feb. 13
Above: Jasmyne Jones, ’14, announces her decision to run track at Wartburg College Bottom Left: Clayton Bjornsen, ’14, sits with his parents prior to the Signing Day ceremony All photos by: Andi Lawrence
Sports Editor
Ian Schweiger
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“ISSUES” BY ISSUES Elijah Wedel Staff Writer
With so many new bands and artist out there today, in my opinion, Issues stand out and delivers the sound I so desperately crave. They started in 2012 when four members from the band Woe, Is Me left and formed Issues. They recently came out with a new self-titled album. Their genre is metalcore punk which means it fuses screamo and punk with a taste of nu metal (rap metal) so they are a lot of genres combined, plus a DJ. One of the songs that stands out to me is “Mad At myself” because the screaming is minimal but is fairly understood, plus it’s really relatable, its talking about how this guy hurt himself and another person emotionally. The second song that stood out to me was “Stingray Affliction”. This is a fight song, which isn’t that common in the music I listen to, because most of the songs I enjoy are about emotions such as love, sadness, and hate. I would recommend this album to people who like the following bands: Of Mice And Men. A Day To Remember, Pierce The Veil. I would rate this 4/5 because the screams are good, the clean vocals are easy to understand, and the instrumentals just blew my mind.
GREAT HARVEST BREAD CO. Bridget Williams Opinions Editor
There are two things one needs in order to find good food in Cedar Rapids; openness to all types of food, and a magnifying glass. I wanted something wholesome, something fresh. A friend had told me about a new place that opened this summer, Great Harvest Bread Co. Located next to a Happy Joes and looking out into a vacant parking lot with the remaining Big K stain leaving its legacy on its old building, I had little confidence. I walked in the door and the place was full of people, real life Cedar Rapidians conversing and reading the newspaper, “What a Wonderful World” was playing over the speakers, and I was greeted with a free sample and a genuine smile. The free sample was a baked good called a “Savannah Bar”, this month with peaches, strawberries, and blueberries. It tasted homemade, like something a mom would make. But I knew better than to be fooled by free samples and serene music; I ordered the Harvest Veggie sandwich, expecting the worst. Great Harvest Bread Co. is different and for lack of a better word, cool. The music, workers, and atmosphere all create a ‘feel-good’ vibe. The company is a franchise, so anybody can open one in their area with the freedom of having their own business. Every day they freshly mill whole wheat to make high quality bread, but I
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didn’t have to go on their website to find this out, I could taste it. My sandwich was placed in front of me and I hesitantly took my first bite. It was both fresh and wholesome, with phenomenal bread and fresh ingredients, it was a great sandwich. On my way out I bought a bag of their “Groovy Granola,” which if eaten properly, belongs in a bowl of vanilla almond milk or topped on a scoop of vanilla ice cream. I left with a warm feeling in my stomach and a spring in my step. The difference between Great Harvest Bread Co. and the typical Cedar Rapids restaurant is a company that cares about health. Great Harvest Bread Co.’s use of whole wheat bread and fresh ingredients is a combination for the heart and soul.
Photo by Bridget Williams
Michelle Zumhof A&E Editor
To Kill A Mockingbird Michelle Zumhof A&E Editor
Photo by Hannah Jonasson Alisa Gerhold, who plays Mayella Ewell in TCR’s upcoming production of “To Kill A Mockingbird”
What’s it like to falsely accuse someone of rape and constantly have your motives questioned? Alisa Gerhold, ’14, has the rare opportunity to play the character who experiences this, Mayella Ewell, in the upcoming production of “To KIll a Mockingbird”. Based on the classic novel published in 1960, “To Kill A Mockingbird” is coming to Theater Cedar Rapids on March 21st through April 12th. Gerhold says she tried out through TCR. “It’s set in 30s, in a poor family that accused a black man of raping me, even though he didn’t,” said Gerhold. The part takes a lot of hard work and dedication. Gerhold said, “Practice is everyday, for two months.
“Everything your character does has a motive behind it. You have to find why your character acts the way she does.”
The length of time depends on what your part is.” As for the most challenging part, Gerhold says it’s character development. “Everything your character does has a motive behind it. You have to find why your character acts the way she does. And when it’s falsely accusing someone of rape, that can be very challenging,” said Gerhold. To prepare for the performance, Gerhold said, “As a cast we do warmup vocal breathing exercises. I go off by myself and breathe, get into her shoes, and start thinking about my role.” The nerves disappear once the curtain opens. “When I’m up there, I’m a totally different person. It’s an adrenaline rush,” said Gerhold. Graphic by Michelle Zumhof
A&E Editor Michelle Zumhof
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Elijah Wolter Staff Writer
festival highlights 4/1: Leslie Jamison (Prairie Lights Bookstore)
-Novelist from LA
4/2: The Olympics (The Mill)
-Young indie rock group out of Iowa City, IA
4/2: Kembrew McLeod (Prairie Lights Bookstore
-Writer, filmmaker, and Professor
4/3: Phillip Glass (Englert Theater) -World-renowned composer 4/4: Kishi Bashi (The Mill)
-K. Ishibashi’s self-recorded and
self-produced project
4/5: Vegan Brunch (Trumpet Blossom Cafe)
-Three-course brunch featuring local, organic food
4/6: Last Call Brunch Buffet (The Mill)
-An epic festival-closing brunch
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CC by Smallbones on Wikipedia Commons
When the subject of music festivals comes up, most people talk of extended road trips to Bonnaroo in Manchester, Tenn., Coachella in Indio, Cal., or at the very closest, Lollapalooza in Chicago, IL. But from April 1 to April 6, there is an impressive lineup of not only music, but literature, food, comedy, film and tech as well less than a half hour away as Mission Creek Festival takes over Iowa City. “If I had to relate it to other festivals, Mission Creek is sort of what it would be like if SXSW and AWP (Association of Writers and Writing Programs Conference) combined and added a food element,” said Emily Kane, the Festival’s producer. Mission Creek, unlike other festivals, adapts a much more urban setting. “Instead of existing in an open field for two or three days, Mission Creek ultimately takes over the entirety of downtown Iowa City for a whole week,” said Kane. Events take place at multiple venues, including Englert Theatre, The Mill, Gabe’s, Blue Moose, the Yacht Club, and Prairie Lights Bookstore.
“It truly is a special experience because we get to pull from an endless pool of talented Iowa artists and pair them with national headliners,” said Kane. Some of the “national headliners” this year are Philip Glass, the Head and the Heart, of Montreal, Warpaint and Kishi Bashi, as well as stand-up comedian Hannibal Buress. Mission Creek is a great opportunity for local artists to network and expand their audience. “Mission Creek gives us exposure to potential fans that may not have huffed it to one of our shows,” said Trevor Polk ’10, the keyboardist for The Olympics, an Iowa City-based band, which will be headlining their own show 8 P.M. Wed. April 2 at The Mill as part of Mission Creek Festival. If in search of good music, good literature, good food, or just an excuse to travel down to enjoy the April weather in downtown Iowa City, Mission Creek Festival is a wonderful opportunity to take advantage of. For a full lineup, schedule, ticket information, and more, go to missionfreak.com.
Michelle Zumhof A&E Editor
Congratulations to the 20132014 AP GHOSH Scholars and Recipients from Washington PTA!!
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CR Washington High School’s Newspaper 1/8 page ad (2x3.5in) Katharyne Dunn katharyne_dunn@hillsbank.com
2013-2014 Anna Purna Ghosh
AP Incentive Program Recipients
2013-2014 Anna Purna Ghosh AP scholars
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An awards assembly was held on January 9, 2014 for the award winners. Business Manager
Eric Loeffelholz
Advertising 23
Forest Drive is the only thing separating Washington High School from our neighbors, Bethany Lutheran Church. In reality, how close is religion to our school?
Photo from the ‘balloon send off ‘ at the funeral of McKenna Terrington, ‘16 at Jefferson, close friend of Hannah’s.
well, hannah spent so much time on Netflix this month she neglected to take a photo for the back page...sorry guys.
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