January 2011

2205 Forest Drive SE, Cedar Rapids, Iowa 52403 SurveyorWHS@gmail.com Volume 54, Number 5

Surveyor January 28, 2011

The George Washington

Six Wash teachers set to retire Lauren Sines Editor-in-Chief The Cedar Rapids Community School District offered approximately 135 teachers and administrators $25,000 to retire this year. This increased retirement package pays educators the extra money in addition to the current voluntary retirement plan. The school district is paying for this one-time offer with money from The Federal Education Jobs bill.

All educators who are over 55 and have been employed by the district for more than 20 years qualify for the incentive.

Dr. Dave Benson says that the incentive will save the district money in the long run.

The Cedar Rapids Community School District’s current enrollment of 17,368 students is expected to decrease over the next few years. District employees planning to take advantage of the package were required to announce their retirement by Jan. 10, 2011. The early deadline is intended to give the district flexibility to incase the number of necessary staff members next year is decreased by expected declines in enrollment.

Six Washington High School teachers have announced their retirement at the end of this school year. Among the retiring are threee department chairpersons, two counselors, and long-term Wash teachers. Students and staff alike worry that Wash will be a much different place without their over 200 years of combined professional experience.

Dr. Peggy Hardesty is the only ninth grade facilitator Wash has had. She herself is a Wash graduate and has been teacher and counselor for 40 years.

Trudy Johansen has taught at seven area high schools, including Spanish at Wash for the past 20 years. She is the current head of the Foreign Language Department.

Dr. Gerald Kreitzer, or “DK” as he is more commonly known, has taught at Wash for the past 22 years. He is the director of Momentum, Wash’s varsity show choir, Madrigals

Chamber Choir and Concert Choir.

Sue McDermott is the chairperson of Wash’s Student Support Services Department.

She was a teacher at Lisbon High School and has been a counselor at Wash for 20 years.

Gary Rieck is Wash’s “chemistry guru.” In his 38th year, he has taught at Wash longer than any other current teacher .

Kathy Ulrich has been an educator for 35 years. She has taught English and speech, coached debate and is currently a leader in the Special Education Department at Wash.

There is an additional teacher who is still considering retirement. The district has extended their announcement deadline because they do not fully meet the requirements for the retirement package and have been offered a prorated deal.

Johansen says the decision was extremely hard. “Next year will definitely be different.

I’m going to miss Wash a lot,” she said.

Some students are wondering if urging the most experienced teachers in the school to retire is worth the money the district is supposedly going to save. “Paying the most experienced teachers at Wash to retire seems like a really bad idea,” said Kylie Countentos, ’13.

“Dr. Plagman often jokes that you can’t retire until you find your replacement,” said Dave Coates, former Wash counselor and women’s cross-country coach. Wash does not know if all of the teachers will be replaced for next school year. “It depends on three factors,” Dr. Ralph Plagman said. First students have to sign up for courses so administrators know where teachers are needed. Secondly Governor Branstad announced a freeze on school budgets for next year and the impact on Wash needs to be determined. Lastly Plagman needs to determine what classes teachers will teach. He hopes all of this will be determined by the first week in March.

Plagman describes the task of starting next year without these six educators as “daunting”. He says that though Wash is losing many outstanding teachers, many more remain and Wash as we know it shouldn’t change too much.

What is it like to be number one?

In a school with 60 plus valedictorians each year, only three students can truly say they are at the top of their class.

Ian Fischer News Editor The final grades of the past trimester are handed out as they sit in homeroom on the first day back from break.

Alongside the A’s on the report is a clean and simple “1” at the bottom of the page.

It is awkward and unsettling to have the highest grade point average in your high school class, being number one is never easy and never secure.

“I didn’t want anyone else to know about it,” said Morgan Barnes, ’13, the junior class number one. “As soon as people knew about it, they started to ask me for help with their homework,” said Barnes.

Although there comes the burden of friends asking you to finish their homework, the position is equally fulfilling.

“It’s satisfying to be number one, all of your hard work has paid off,” said Barnes.

Humility and hard work seem to be factors in getting to be number one.

“I don’t feel like I’m the smartest kid,” said Liz Townsend, ’12.

A number one on the report card does not necessarily indicate that one is the smartest in their grade; it also takes dedication.

“I usually get home around five or six after school, work on homework Photo by Megan Anderson and practice music, and I’ll be off to sleep at one or two in the morning,” said (Left to right) Bradlee Birchansky, ’13, Liz Townsend, ’11, and Morgan Barnes ’12.

Townsend. (continued on page 2)

iPhone versus Android: Who’s the victor?

John Kopec Staff Writer

For about a year, the Android OS (mobile • 73.5 million iPoperating system) and hones were sold by the Apple iPhone have been going head to the end of 2010. head in one of the biggest phone rivalries of • More than 100 all time. But, with the Android OS software in million Blackberthe most popular phone ries were sold by on the Verizon market the end of 2010. and the iPhone 4 coming to Verizon Wireless in February, which will • 300,000 Androids reign supreme? were being activatBoth the iPhone ed each day by the and the Android OS end of 2010. overall are extremely fast, have superb displays and are loaded with multimedia features. However, the Android OS is still taking over the market. Does that mean it’s better than the iPhone? According to the 2010 statistics of overall U.S. market shares, the Android OS is the single fastestgrowing mobile device on the market and Apple’s iPhone with iOS (Apple’s mobile operating system) is experiencing a slight decline in sales. (continued on page 11)

Inside this Issue News

Profiles

Opinions

Focus

Is the future of Washington as we know it changing? Sara Larson sat down with Dr. Ralph Plagman to discuss recent changes around Wash.

Meet the real Connor Jackson, ’11.

page 10

Students and staff stand up for Washington and its principal against recent attacks in The Gazette. pages 5-6 Cole Rhatigan discusses the importance of your name at Wash. page 6

In an ever-more techsavvy society, Wash students utilize technology. pages 8-9

page 3

Arts & Entertainment Modern Family is taking over Wednesday nights. page 12 “The King’s Speech” recieves 4.5 warrior heads. page 12

Sports Byrant Wright and Zach Detweiler, both ’11 talk about being Wash’s ultimate fans.

page 14

Tim Fisher, racquetball wizard. page 15

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News

1-28-2011

Ian Fischer

SurveyorWHS.news@gmail.com

Around the world Michael Andersland Staff Writer

Congresswoman shot in Arizona

US teen scales Mt. Everest

On Jan. 8, 2011, terror reigned in Tucson, Ariz. 19 people were shot, and six of them died from their injuries. The shooter’s target was U.S. Representative Gabrielle Giffords.

Giffords was holding a constituent meeting known as “Congress on Your Corner” at a Safeway supermarket in Casas Adobes, Ariz., near Tucson. The alleged shooter, Jared Lee Loughner, 22, drew a semi-automatic pistol, shot Giffords in the head, and then fired several random shots at the crowd. When he ran out of ammunition and tried to reload, he was subdued by bystanders including a retired U.S. Army colonel.

Although Giffords survived the attack, six people did not. The casualties included a U.S. District Court judge and a nine-year-old girl. Loughner has had five charges filed against him and could face the death penalty. Several memorial ceremonies have been held for the victims of this tragedy, including a ceremony attended by President Obama on Jan. 12, 2011.

Uganda’s rapping President

White lions born in Argentina The first white lion cubs ever to be born in South America came into the world Nov. 16, 2010, at a zoo in Buenos Aires, Argentina. This week, the public was allowed to view them for the first time.

The parents were a pair of white lions that had been imported from South Africa. Their litter included two female cubs and one male, all of them white.

The zoo plans to allow the local children to name them this summer, through a contest.

White lions are not a unique species of lion, nor are they albino lions. They have the recessive gene chinchilla, or color inhibitor, which causes them to have a white pelt. The color does not create any other changes apart from making it more difficult for the lions to blend in with their natural African environment, and making them more valuable to poachers.

In Uganda, the president is running for re-election, and has adopted a unique strategy to draw votes: he raps.

Yoweri Museveni, 65, has been in power for 24 years, and intends to stay there after the election that will take place this February. To help draw votes from younger citizens, he has composed a hit rap song that not only has increased his popularity with voters, but also become the most popular ringtone in Uganda.

The rap includes lyrics from an ancient Ugandan children’s song, and was designed to target voters below age 40, who make up 90 percent of the country’s voting population.

Not only could this rap turn the tide of votes in the upcoming election, it could also make Museveni a rich man. He has put forth a copyright claim for his rap, which, if accepted, would allow him to gain substantial profits as more people download the ringtone and song. To see a video of the rap, go to http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S7ZZKPxsGDo&feature=related.

What is it like to be number one?

Ian Fischer News Editor (From page 1) Wash has had many quiet, reserved and serious people fill in the number one spot, and then there was Bradlee Birchansky, ’14.

“I just do my thing, and go with the flow,” said Birchansky, amid many swim team inside jokes which are inappropriate for the paper.

No matter what temperament or work method, being number one comes at some cost.

“Yeah I don’t have a social life, but I’m

not sure I would even have one if I wasn’t number one,” said Birchansky.

The consequences of maintaining the top spot range from “no friends on Friday nights” to complete loss of tracking time.

Despite the fact that they are focused on school, they all emphasize not stressing out about it.

“Will anyone even remember the ranks after school is over?” said Townsend.

This is not an excuse for your parents when you fail your next test. In fact, it’s easy to excel in school.

“Find a place to study. Study with someone who knows the subject and start the homework the day it is assigned,” said Townsend.

The counseling office was not responsible for any release of the class rankings, nor did I find it appropriate to have a number one freshman decided after Photo by Megan Anderson one trimester.

(Left to right) Bradlee Birchansky, Morgan Barnes, Liz Townsend.

Jordan Romero, a 13-year-old from Big Bear Lake, Calif., became the youngest person ever to climb Everest in May 2010. He was climbing with his father, stepmother and a team of guides.

Previously, the record was held by Ming Kipa of Nepal, who scaled the mountain with her siblings at age 16 in 2003.

In fourth grade Jordan decided that he wanted to climb the tallest mountain on each of the seven continents. So far, Jordan has scaled six of the seven peaks, Kilimanjaro in Africa, Kosciusko in Australia, Elbrus in Asia, Aconcagua in South America, McKinley in Alaska and Everest. His next and final climb will be Vinson Massif in Antarctica, which, while not as tall as Everest, can be just as dangerous, and claims 10-30 lives each year.

Wash says goodbye to 140 years of Warrior experience Six teachers plan to retire at the end of the 2010-2011 school year.

Dr. Peggy Hardesty

Dr. Gerald Kreitzer

30 years at Wash

22 years at Wash

Ninth Grade Facilitator

Trudy Johansen

Foreign Language Chair

20 years at Wash

Music Department Chair

Sue McDermott

Student Support Services Chair

20 years at Wash

Gary Rieck

Chemistry Teacher

38 years at Wash

Kathy Ulrich

Special Education

20 years at Wash

Ian Fischer

SurveyorWHS.news@gmail.com

Sara Larson Staff Writer

News

1-28-2011

A sit down with the main man

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Thaddeus Paisar is the newest addition to the Washington High School community. A anticipates the 2011-’12 freshman class to be somewhere around 400 students. This is a graduate from Wartburg College with a teaching degree, Paisar has been hired as the police large jump from last year’s senior class that graduated 322 students. officer that will be present at Wash at Many students are also aware of the all times. Although the presence of a retirement incentive offered to teachpolice officer is new, it isn’t the only ers who have worked within the Cedar thing around Wash causing students Rapids school district for a minimum to talk. of 20 years. Counselors Peggy Hardesty “I don’t think there’s been an and Sue McDermott, as well as teachupward trend in violent behavior at ers Gary Rieck, Trudy Johansen, Gerald school. I think there has been in the Kreitzer, Kathleen Ulrich, and an unWashington attendance area. Actunamed teacher have chosen to accept the ally, some of the worst situations in incentive. Plagman is looking to replace the 30 years that I have been princitheir positions with teachers already at pal, happened quite a while ago,” said Washington.

Principal Ralph Plagman. “Actually, “At some point in the next six weeks, about five years ago, we had what we it may be a little longer than that, I will thought was one our worst years in a get an allocation staffing number for while for fights.”

Washington High School. I can have Administrators are most conthat many teachers and counselors,” said cerned about outsiders entering the Plagman. Once Plagman knows how school than anything. There have many staff members he is allowed, he been instances in the past where can work on hiring new teachers and people have come into the school and replacing empty positions with current caused problems. Approximately six Wash teachers. years ago, parents entered the school Plagman believes that despite many and a conflict arose in the wrestling concerns, Washington is better than ever. room. The Dec. 8 fight that occurred After Dick Frederick’s editorial, he has Photo by Natalee Birchansky noticed that the student body is more this year was another example of this problem, and the final straw. unified than ever. His advice to students Dr. Plagman speaking with Sara Larson in an interview.

“Students won’t be affected much is to “take care of business, keep working like this, but we are going to go to hard and the right things will happen.” a keyless entry system. Ten doors are going to have systems where you just swipe a card that staff member will have. Many of the doors locked now will essentially be permanently locked,” said Plagman.

In addition to new security measures, another topic is the decreasing enrollment at Wash. Plagman believes that starting next year, enrollment should be on the rise again. He

The snow day process Madeline Berg Staff Writer

“No school!” said Cameron Bently, ’14, when asked why he enjoyed snow days.

Whether you like school or not, the potential for snow days is upon us. For some of us, snow days are as simple as sleeping all day, for others, a snow day can be a disaster.

The decision to call off school is a difficult and complicated process. The Director of Transportation, Director of Custodial and Grounds, Area Superintendents, and the City and County Road Superintendents are all involved in the decision, but Dr. David L. Benson, the superintendent of the Cedar Rapids School District, has the final say in the decision. While we get to enjoy the full benefits of sleeping in on snow days, Dr. Benson must begin gathering information at 5 a.m. to see if the academic day should indeed be called off. Then, he must consult with National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and local meteorologists.

In order to inform everyone of the decision, an automatic phone messaging system is used. If this phone message system does not work, a call tree system is also set up.

So, what elements must be present in order for a snow day to be called? Snow, snow, and more snow. There needs to be enough snow to slow the road crews down enough so they are unable to finish plowing and salting.

The day would also be called off if an insufficient number of staff were able to show up to school. The third thing taken into consideration is the safety of the students and staff that make up the school district.

Dr. Benson’s decision of whether to have school or not never pleases everyone. “Any decision in this area is ‘wrong’ from someone’s point of view. I hear about the correctness of the decision regardless of what decision is made.” However, in the eyes of most Wash students, calling a snow day is the “correct” decision no matter what.

“On snow days, my favorite thing to do is go sledding,” said Bently. While freshmen, sophomores, and juniors claim they love snow days, seniors appreciate them the most. “I like snow days because we get to sleep in,” said Abbey Overland, ’11. Not only do seniors get to sleep in, they also don’t have to make these days up due to early graduation.

Although we have had two delays, Wash students have yet to have the luxury of a full snow day. Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow.

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1-28-2011

News

Ian Fischer

SurveyorWHS.news@gmail.com

The numbers at Washington

Grant Kamin Staff Writer No Child Left Behind created a school system where progress was based upon a percentile number from a standardized test. That number is published in local papers and distributed by the school system and by using that number, everyday people outside the school can easily compare the quality of schools, instantly. At Washington, we can see the individual stories behind that percentile number.

“Your home life can definitely affect your study habits and could maybe lower your test scores,” said Luke Godlewski, ’13 about having money around the home.

On Dec. 10, 2010, 520 students from Wash were on free and reduced lunch. Adding up to 37 percent of the total enrollment of the school, more than one in three students are affected by a lack of money for school related things. Not being able to afford computers to write papers and research, study books to

prepare for even more expensive AP tests, or even a pricey Texas Instruments TI-84 calculator, it shouldn’t come as a surprise that some kids struggle with school.

As far as standardized tests can tell, all students are on an even playing field whether you spent your summers at an expensive school based camp, or you spent your summer working to pay for your bus ticket to school.

“More people have a tight budget, so this could have an impact on involvement in extracurricular activities because of various costs,” said Evan Fisher, ’14. Students at Wash have changed their budget, what used to be 20 percent has changed to 36 percent on free and reduced lunch from 2001 to 2010, while the overall percentage of high school students in the Cedar Rapids School District on free and reduced lunch has doubled. This drastic change in amount of money not only would keep kids away from involvement, but would also cause them to lose that chance to get the positive results from being an active part of any high school community.

Winter forum

Stars: Adastra changing students’ lives

Madeline Berg Staff Writer

The forum is a way to openly discuss the issues of Washington High School through student and staff input.

“I feel that the forum is important because issues are brought up that are normally disregarded and are, what I feel, important topics that need to be talked about to allow Wash to become as diverse as we aim to be,” said Laura Vestle, ’12.

The event took place in the Little Theater during fourth hour on January 18th, 2010. It allowed any Wash member to come and listen to a variety of people’s views on topics ranging from increasing diversity in higher level classes to recognizing and rewarding people who are otherwise anonymous.

The school event, hosted by Julie Cain included panel members, staff: Willis Harte, Akwi Nji Dawson, Ian Kleman, Olivia Baker, and students: Neel Ghosh, ’11 Abbie Peterson, ’12, Layloni Beard, Photo by Megan Anderson ’11 and Oliver Panel members and Julie Cain at the second annual school forum. Hidalgo-Wohlleben, ’11.

The Wash forum tradition started last year from Student Senate.

“Teachers were discussing how the lunch room was self-segregated by class or race. We wanted to discuss why this was an issue and how we can broach the subject and change that.

We are one of the most diverse schools in the state but while promoting diversity we also need to remember functional integration,” said Erika Derrick, math teacher. Derrick is the faculty adviser in charge of student senate and the one who first introduced the idea.

The theater was filled with students and staff alike who were interested in the different perspectives and stimulating questions. “I got out of class, number one, and a lot of good information was covered,” said Mitch Blades, ’13. If you missed the forum this time around, plan for the next one this spring.

Michael Andersland Staff Writer

Adastra, Washington’s branch of the National Honor Society, is changing the lives of elementary students at Johnson Elementary through its participation in Iowa State University’s STARS program. A program that helps to provide additional tutoring to elementary level students that qualify for free or reduced lunch.

Since November 2010, Adastra members involved in STARS have been going to Johnson Elementary School after school each day. At the school they interact with the students, tutoring and playing with them. From simple math to tossing a football in subzero temperatures, the seniors do it all.

“It’s really fun to work with the kids, and they enjoy it too,” said Becca Herron, ’11, treasurer of Adastra.

The results from last year show that STARS is making a huge difference in the Johnson school community. In the 200910 year, 55% of the STARS elementary students had no office referrals. Teachers noticed a 43% improvement in homework being turned in on time, and a 40.7% increase in homework being completed. There was also a 20.6% increase in positive interactions among students.

Another aim Photo by Natalee Birchansky of the program Charlie Parks helps a student with her homework. is to keep kids out of trouble now, and in the future. Crime and incarceration are expensive. Prevention programs like STARS put kids on the right track early, and are a far cheaper alternative.

If you would like to get involved in Adastra, you must be a junior or senior with a GPA of 3.5 or higher and fulfill other qualifications.

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Family Health Center

Patrick Anderl

Opinions

SurveyorWHS.opinions@gmail.com

1-28-2011

5

School pride prevails Patrick Anderl Opinions Editor

ROSES

THORNS

-Coachella -Dinosaur Themed Rooms -Double Doozy of Jersey Shore -Triple Parking -Bever Park Ice Rink -Ronnie Look-A-like -McMann -Recycling Bins -Cedar Rapids Being a Movie -Mr. Washington Approaches -Half-Way Done -CH3 Rides Solo -Mr. Jans at Mr. Washington -Jersdays -New Library -Top Ten Lists -Kamin Siblings -ComicIndian -Gucci Mane’s Tattoo -Don’t do it to ‘em Mike

-Dick Fredericks’ Article -Coooold -Snow -2012 Approaches With No Hope for Survival -Retiring Teachers -Terrible Parking -No Snow Days. Really District?

-Boy Problems -Fewer half days -Needing Passes All the Time -Sickness Going Hard -Getting Pulled Over for Not Wearing Seat Belts -Temperature Differences in School -Slush -Socks and Watches -Losing Appendages -Waterbottles?

Wash teacher discusses constants Bill Lammers Guest Columnist This is my 18th year as a full-time teacher at WHS, and my 24th year working with high school theater. As someone who spends almost all of my day in the performing arts wing, I have had the chance to observe and experience a wide variety of creativity both in the classroom and on the stage. Wash is a place that fosters that creativity. The challenges that face the modern

WHS are many - but there have been three constants since I’ve been here: 1) parents who take an active interest in their kids’ education, 2) teachers who adapt and create meaningful lessons for today’s students and 3) students who come to school every day and do their very best. Despite the changes in the general population, the teaching staff and the administration, this combination has proven to create a successful school.

Not perfect, but our successes outweigh the challenges.

Cliques 4 lyfe OMG Brian Kopec Managing Editor Just the other week, I tweeted that I was madly in love with Britt Bergquist, ’11.

Naturally, other bros that I hang out with became jealous and accused me of tweeting that message with the intent to “claim” her, preventing any other guy from going after her. This immediately started a super-duper dramatic Twitter argument that no one really cared about except for my clique. Since the argument was on Twitter, it was public, and everyone knew about our pointless and uninteresting drama. I am a member of a clique called the “Handsome Guild” and this is our story.

For those who know me, they usually see me around with my “handsome” group of friends: Dan Roalson, Zach Detweiler, Oliver Hildalgo-Wolleben and Colin Hennessey, all ’11. We are the “Handsome Guild.” Is it safe to admit that the name of our clique is arbitrary? Nope, because that would imply that we are the only ones who find ourselves handsome. Clearly since everyone else calls us that (often it’s shortened to H.G.), it must be a totally objective observation.

Blind to the sarcastic way people began

to call us “the H.G.,” we decided to stick with the name “Handsome Guild.” Our initial thought was “if our cliques new name has caught on this fast, then it must be true.” Though we realized the logic to how we gained our name doesn’t actually make any sense, we just decided to keep it anyway.

Our group began to thrive and gain what we thought was popularity. We started a sort of “guild symbol” that we would flash in ever picture taken of us. Soon we noticed that other people started using our guild symbol in their photos too. Once again, we thought we were “the $#!%” and that everyone wanted to be as handsome as we are.

Days turned into weeks, weeks into months, and our guild was slowly diminishing. We gained a slight amount of social intelligence and began to realize that what we thought was praise and popularity was actually mockery. I realized that there was more to my high school life than excluding other members of my grade from hanging out with my bros and me. I began to realize that by the time my class reached senior year, no one actually cared about who they hang out with. The goal of each weekend night was to go out, eat food, chill with whoever, have fun and then go to bed.

While checking AC3’s Facebook page frequently in hopes of a controversial status (as I do with most of my nights), my news feed informed me of a cruel man by the name of Dick Fredericks. I saw that many of my peers were reacting to a piece he had written, so I looked up his article to understand all the outrage circulating throughout Facebook.

I found his criticisms of Washington and Dr. Plagman to be ridiculous, uninformed, poorly written and insulting. I have no problem with someone discussing their concerns about an institution, but the way he went about it was obscene.

His “facts” were attributed to his own web site which contains several more ludicrous claims, and he spoke of a school he knows

nothing about.

This is not to say Wash is a perfect school. Wash does have its flaws and Fredericks did make valid points occasionally, but I couldn’t take him seriously due to his inability to put together a sentence and his use of false sources.

However, this negative article captured everyone’s attention, and the heightened sense of togetherness that ensued was pretty amazing. Throughout the last four years, I’ve always felt this is what makes Wash great. The pride we have in our school and its faculty sets us apart and makes it a place where anything can be accomplished.

Furthermore the lengths that Plagman goes to, in terms of giving us the most opportunities possible, is unheard of.

Having said all of the above, I would just like to close by stating I wouldn’t go anywhere but Wash and Dick Fredericks is clearly wrong. ROLL TIDE.

Alumnus recounts Wash experience Trent Buchanan Guest Columnist “It’s a great day to be a Warrior” says Dr. Plagman daily, and he means it! Washington was a great place to attend high school, and honestly, I wouldn’t want to attend elsewhere. The faculty and staff at Wash were there for you when you needed it, and the teachers were there to help. They didn’t want to see you fail. If you chose to fail, then you’d fail, but if you showed interest in the subject and actually attempted to get help, you’d get it. Dr. Plagman, to me, is

what made Wash, Wash. He’s a great guy, knows every student by name, commits to academics and doesn’t just hold academic assemblies for no reason! He’s a strong supporter of both academics and athletics.

Wash was named one of the “Best High Schools” multiple years in a row due to the strong academic force that was put on the staff. Wash prepares you for the next step of life whether it be a university or community college: both are continuing your education and that’s what counts. It doesn’t matter where. It’s an education. GO WARRIORS, stay strong!

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1-28-2011

Opinions

Patrick Anderl

SurveyorWHS.opinions@gmail.com

The significance of a name at Washington

Cole Rhatigan Staff Writer

I will not pretend to be as important to the Washington community as Tiger Woods is to the American community. My name is not Keenan Davis. However, I feel much of the same remorse I imagine Tiger felt. Though my crimes are not as extreme, I didn’t betray my love for multiple women constructed of plastic, I still let my community down. Furthermore, much like Tiger experienced, I feel as if I have been dismissed by the Washington community.

In light of my recent mistake, I think back to others who have made similar faults in judgement. Immediately the O’Donnell name comes to mind. Both O’Donnell boys were talented, kind and easy to like. Both went through similar situations as I am. However, it seemed like these two remained as highly thought of as they were previous to their mistake.

This can only be explained by the name. The O’Donnell name holds high acclaim in the Washington community. Though equally as Irish, the Rhatigan name means much less at Wash.

I’m hesitant to say, though I do believe, the name does have importance at Wash. It seems being a superstar athlete, or having the top GPA in your class automatically deems the student to be a better kid than others. Even when these student icons commit crimes against the school, which has happened and continues to happen, the immense frame

they’re portrayed in remains equally as large. The picture may be slightly tarnished, but the presence remains.

Yet, this is how it should be. A mistake should not define how one views a student’s character. We all make mistakes. It just seems the “average student” has less leeway in the mistakes they make before their character is viewed upon negatively.

I am a mildly talented athlete, but not the superstar. I am a smart student, but not among the elite intellectuals. However, I pride myself upon being an active, well-rounded member of the Washington student body. Apart from being a member of multiple sports, the school newspaper and various other activities, I have given back to the school community everyday for the last three years as an active member of Student Senate. Am I now to be looked poorly upon because I made a mistake? Will I not be forgiven because I don’t bring Washington championships?

I am not making excuses. I was terribly stupid and deserve my punishment. I am not bitter. Dr. Plagman, along with the entirety of Washington’s administration and staff, are among the most caring, loyal and dedicated people I’ve ever been surrounded by. Each student at Wash is cared for, and has the opportunity to succeed if they choose to seize it. I simply fear that my lack of flair and popularity will cause me to be dismissed. However, I realize I have the power to not let this happen, and I ensure those whom I have let down: I will fight to make it up to you.

Students unified by controversial article Britt Bergquist Guest Columnist After reading Dick Fredericks’ opinions article in the Gazette, I immediately seized the opportunity to write Mr. Fredericks a long and scathing e-mail. Over 1,000 words later, I followed the suit of many of my peers and wrote an angry Facebook status update about my passionate feelings towards him and his blatantly ignorant ad hominem attacks against Wash and Dr. Plagman.

Once my anger subsided, I realized the wonderful and positive effects of Mr. Fredericks’ editorial. Never, in my four years as a student, has any event brought students closer together and more passionate about Wash (not even the Facebook battle between the girls who do that one hand thing and the girls that

do that other hand gesture thing).

Almost immediately, I saw a jettison of passionate words and pictures; some insightful, some angry, some crude. Both online and off, the point was that people were vigorously defending Wash and taking pride in their school and education.

This sense of unity is something that can’t be artificially created.

What’s truly amazing is that our commitment to Washington, even more than refuting any absurdity or untruth that Mr. Fredericks wrote, defies anyone who says that our school and principal are lacking and inferior.

At the end of the day, it is obvious that we are all proud to be Warriors. The only lesson to be learned is that when writing about Washington High School and our beloved principal, you better do your research and get your facts straight.

Superintendent commends Dr. Plagman

Dr. Dave Benson Superintendent We stand, figuratively, on the shoulders of those who have gone before us. Because of a personal attack to my educational colleague in a recent guest editorial published in the Cedar Rapids Gazette newspaper, I enthusiastically reaffirm to our community that Washington High School Principal Dr. Ralph Plagman is an outstanding educator of impeccable character.

His more than 40-year commitment to public service is widely recognized as a positive role model for others to emulate. On behalf of a grateful educational community, I commend him for his meritorious service.

Being over the age of 60, I am often tempted to glorify the past. The fact remains, however, that while we live and work in the present day, we bear the responsibility to educate children who must live and work in the world of tomorrow. Our mission requires that we be forward thinking, promote a positive public discourse, and champion educational opportunities for today’s students.

The Cedar Rapids Community School District is blessed with an engaged and supportive community, many dedicated leaders like Dr. Plagman, visionary leadership by the Board of Education, and wonderful and hard working students, parents, faculty, and staff. Working together, we will ensure that the future holds tremendous promise for our children.

Drawing by Lauren Sines

The Surveyor Editorial Policy

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 300 words.

4. It is signed.

Lauren Sines

Brian Kopec

Emily Wicke

Ian Fischer

Joe Eken

Isaac Halyard

Patrick Anderl

Sanju Sathian

Alyssa Christian

Ellen Hart

Sara Larson

Shana Matthews

Editor-in-chief

Sports editor

Profiles editor

Writers

Michael Ansersland Madeline Berg Joe Berry Jill Broghammer Catheryn Cooper Lily Gasway Shanay Gonder

Managing editor

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Katharine Goodwin Spencer Harvieux Nick Heins Francesca HildalgoWohlleben Grant Kamin MJ Kamin Chloe Kohl

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Adviser

Kyle Phillips

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Profiles

SurveyorWHS.profiles@gmail.com

1-28-2011

Miller makes a difference in mathematics Francesca Hidalgo-Wohlleben

7

the President of the United States, Barack Obama, “Everyone was scrunched together in this conference room waiting for him.

Each year, only one math teacher in Iowa is awarded with the Presidential You could literally hear peoples’ hearts beating! When it was finally my turn Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Sciences. This award recognizes a to shake the President’s hand, I said teacher that sets the highest standards something to him like ‘Thank you very of teaching, and serves as a leader and much!’” Miller said with a smile and a model for fellow teachers and for the laugh. “I felt like the kid in Christmas community. Though this is the very Story meeting Santa!” highest recognition that a teacher can Though this was indeed a highlight, receive in the United States, it wasn’t a Miller knows that it was the overall trip surprise when Washington’s very own that made it an awesome experience. teacher, Matthew Miller, was recog“Yeah, meeting the president was renized with this award earlier this year. ally, really, really cool! (laughs) The best “Mr. Miller does a thorough job by thing, though, would be meeting with all getting to the fundamentals. He tells the other teachers. That was tremendous. you why things work, rather than just I now have a network of resources from the simple how,” said Bradlee Birchanpeople that are really excited about what sky, ’13. they do and that have such great ideas.”

Miller was honored with a citation It seems as though Miller has been signed by the President of the United sharing his own great ideas at Wash with States, a $10,000 award from the Nastudents and teachers alike. So what was tion Science Foundation and a paid it that made Miller such a good recipient trip to Washington D.C. that included of the Presidential Award? an award ceremony, professional devel“Mr. Miller uses techniques that most opment programs and discussions with other math teachers typically don’t, to policy-makers on how to improve make students think at different levels.

Photo courtesy of Matthew Miller math and science education.

This approach compliments the more The trip to Washington D.C. traditional approach to produce a wellMatthew Miller (center) holds the Presidential citation with director of the lasted from Dec. 13 to 17 and proved National Science Foundation, Dr. Subra Suresh (left), and director of the White rounded learning experience,” said Tim to be a once in lifetime experience for Fisher, a math teacher at Wash.

House Office of Science and Technology Policy, Dr. John P. Holdren (right).

Miller, who had the chance to meet It is these teaching techniques, comwith everyone from Arne Duncan, the bined with the way he talks with students, his warm-hearted laugh and the smile U.S. Secretary of Education and congressman, to Dave Loebsack, to Ron Howard in his eye that prove teaching has done the opposite of worn Miller down; it has (of Apollo 13). made him what he is today, a great teacher who has finally been recognized.

The encounter that happened to stand out the most, however, was the one with

Staff Writer

Big-hearted bachelor Brokaw

CJ Cooper Staff Writer

Looking to get out of this frigid winter weather? Then Jack Brokaw, ’14, is your man. Brokaw is ready for a relationship and he would love to take some lucky girl on a dream date to a warm beach, just to relax for the day.

As a freshman at Washington High School, Brokaw is taking advantage of the extracurricular activities; he is involved with the freshmen show choir, Vivace, the 9th grade orchestra, Washington Singers and also was a member of the freshmen golf team.

“Most people don’t know this, but I have a skill for public speaking,” said Brokaw. He has Photo by Natalee Birchansky gone to regionals in a national speech competition, spoken in front of local government at a city council meeting, as well as in front of his peers.

Ever since the third grade, Brokaw has played the guitar. He performed in both seventh and eigth grade in the McKinley Variety Show, and on occasion, he will also play at his church.

“Jack has a big heart, he is very compassionate, and always tries to do his best,” said his mother, Katherine Brokaw. As for Brokaw’s future girlfriend, his mother would like her to have a bubbly personality, be outgoing, try her personal best and of course, really like her son. Brokaw would like a nice-looking girl, but to him looks aren’t everything.

“He was really nice and fun to talk to. We had a lot of fun with each other when we were together,” said former girlfriend, Julie Tucker, ’14. Though Brokaw doesn’t have anyone in mind, he is readily open for a relationship.

According to Brokaw, “Single is good, but a relationship would be better.”

What is your favorite type of music?

“I have a broad musical taste.”

Do you have any role models at Washington?

“Ian Draves, he helps me with my bass and he’s a pretty funny guy.”

8

1-28-2011

Sanju Sathian Surveyorwhs.Focus@gmail.com

Foc

Walking through the halls of Washington, it is easy to see that students are constantly “plugged in”. One Washington student simultaneously browses the web, talks on the phone and listens to her iPod.

Photo by Ellen Hart

Living the Spencer Harvieux Staff Writer What started as two engineers tinkering with computers in their garage has turned into a decade of domination. Over the past ten years, Apple Inc. has grown to rule the electronic industry. Apple’s first product was the Apple-1 in July of 1976; each of the personal computers was hand-built by Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak, co-founders of Apple. Years later, in 2001, Apple released the first generation iPod and have continued to update the model frequently. In the current iPod line, there are four generations of “iProducts”: the iPod Classic, the iPod Shuffle, the iPod Nano and the iPod Touch. The most recent innova-

tion, the iPad, has received mixed reviews. The future looks good for Apple as the iPhone is to be sold at both AT&T and Verizon.

“Verizon Wireless customers have told us they can’t wait to get their hands on iPhone 4, and we think they are going to love it,” said Tim Cook, Apple’s chief operating officer. The impending release of the iPhone to Verizon has been a much awaited event. On Jan. 11, 2011, many Verizon customers’ wishes of being able to own an iPhone were answered when Verizon Wireless and Apple announced to the press, that the iPhone 4 would

be available for Verizon customers beginning Thursday, Feb. 10.

The 16 GB iPhone will be sold for $199.99 and 32 GB model will be sold for $299.99 with a new twoyear contract, at more than 2,000 Verizon Wireless stores across the nation.

On Jan. 6, 2011, Apple’s Mac App Store opened with over 1,000 free and paid applications. The opening of the Mac App Store allows Mac users to download ap-

plications related and pick from numerous categories: games, graphics and design, lifestyle, productivity, utilities, education and much more. The store is much like what iPod Touch and iPad users have been able to enjoy. “With more than 1,000 apps, the Mac App Store is off to a great start. We think users are going to love this innovative new way to discover and buy their favorite apps,” said Steve Jobs, Apple’s CEO.

cus

1-28-2011

top four innovations of the future New LCD technology that can retain display even when turned off (useful in alarm clocks, watches, mobile displays Transparent toaster! This technology will use specical heating glass to warm bread to a reasonable temperature for a toast

Twitter

33

Skype YouTube

103 48

EyeMove PC; combines a digital projector and computer. Projects games, movies and applications 3-D Video Games take the gaming experience to a whole new level by through interactive art and gaming

DailyBooth

4

12

9

Facebook Based on answers from 200 students Numbers inscribed in pie chart indicate number of Wash students’ preferences.

Which social networking website / program do you use most?

Photo provided by Will Roberts

Photo by Sanju Sathian

Photo by Amy Parker

Roberts: Addict?

Lily Gasway Staff Writer

It’s undeniable that technology plays a huge role in teens’ lives. This is especially apparent at Washington High School, where students are constantly clicking around on a computer, texting their friends or listening to iPods while studying.

Will Roberts, ’12, is no exception. His personal electronics include a MacBook, iPhone 4, iPod video and an electric keyboard. On weekends, Roberts often hooks his keyboard up to his MacBook and records songs, sometimes singing along with lyrics he’s written. He is currently working on a CD of his recordings.

“With computers and digital music instruments, you have the ability to go beyond conventional constraints as opposed to with acoustic instruments,” said Roberts.

He also uses his computer every day for school purposes and uses it to make and post YouTube videos, as well as to update his Twitter and Facebook accounts.

“It really gives you another aspect to display yourself other than in a school environment. It encourages creativity,” Roberts said.

Roberts is also an avid reader of gadget blogs. On one such blog, Roberts learned about the iPhone 4, before Apple even put out the news of their new technology.

“It keeps me up to date on new technology that’s coming out and development in that industry,” said Roberts.

Roberts estimates that he spends a total of about an hour to an hour and half each school day on his electronics, and more time on weekends.

In the future, Roberts predicts that classes will become more interconnected and students will submit homework online. He also hopes that technology will make more simple but useful advancements.

“Maybe they can invent this sock that you put on and it massages your foot and you feel really comfortable when you do homework,” said Roberts.

Perhaps someday Roberts will read about the massage-sock on a gadget blog, and months later, every Wash student will own a pair.

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1-28-2011

Profiles

Alyssa Christian

SurveyorWHS.profiles@gmail.com

Connor Jackson: The man behind the mystery

Katharine Goodwin Staff Writer

Renowned for his jean-on-jean ensembles and striking similarity to John Lennon, Connor Jackson, ’11, strolls the halls of Washington with a mysterious, yet intimidating air about him. The Surveyor had a chance to somewhat clear that air.

Jackson was born in Manasquan, N. J. on Feb. 4, 1993.

“We’ve [New Jersey] got an unspeakable amount of psychiatric hospitals that look like ones from horror films; I love my home state,” said Jackson.

11 years ago, his family moved to Cedar Rapids. Like many students, Jackson started his high school career here at Wash.

“Freshman year was horrible; it was the worst year here. It was like middle school but on a vast scale. Being around the same people didn’t help me be in a comfort zone, I felt I had more to prove,” said Jackson.

Now as a senior, Jackson has found that comfort zone by listening to others’ consistent advice to just socialize, but Jackson still finds that ability to open up to people an area with which he struggles.

“I’m socially inept; it’s getting loose and getting on a phone number basis [that is a problem.] I’m completely out of time and I’m not from this generation.”

While Jackson doesn’t see himself as “confident,” he thinks that others see him as “cynical.” This does not seem to be the case.

“He’s a crazy motherfucker, in a good way,” Channing Tackaberry, ’12, laughed. “He seems like an interesting character; someone I’d really like to get to know better.”

“He is, by his own acknowledgment, rock and roll, which isn’t cynical,” said David Duer, a language arts teacher at Wash and Jackson’s favorite teacher.

One thing that both Jackson and the rest of the stu-

dent body seem to agree on is his resemblance to one of The Beatles. The question is: which one?

“If all The Beatles had a baby, it would be Mr. Connor Jackson,” said Tackaberry.

“I don’t believe it’s John [that I look like,] it’s George Harrison. It pisses me off because it seems like the only Beatle they know is John because he was murdered,” Jackson said.

Although Jackson believes he looks most like Harrison, Jackson admits that some days he does push the Lennon likeness by wearing shades and flared jeans.

No matter which Beatle Jackson most resembles, they all want the same thing: to leave a legacy behind.

“I want my relationships to matter. [I want to know that] I made people happy and that I brought something special to someone,” said Jackson.

He wants his personal story to change people’s outlook on life.

“I’m passionate about sharing my own story,” said Jackson, “I like people to learn from me to not be held down by social barriers set by others. That’s why you see me in flared jeans and boots.” “[He] pursues an old dream of rock and roll and extends himself from the crowd,” said Shawn Fliger, ’13.

As the end of his senior year approaches, Jackson takes a look to the future. “[Ten years from now] I see myself chilling in a bar waiting to go up on stage.”

He isn’t interested in solo work but hopes to be the driving force behind his band, which may be called Red Metro.

For now, Jackson leaves us with these words: “Ladies and gentleman, take my advice: pull down your pants and slide on the ice.”

Noreuil: A past and future in medicine Shanay Gonder Staff Writer

The phrase, “The apple doesn’t fall far from the tree,” has never been more fitting than for Anna Noreuil, ’12.

With a cardiologist and a pediatrician as parents, Noreuil looks to follow in her mother and father’s footsteps in the medical field. “[I’ve wanted to be a doctor] for a long time, at least since middle school. I guess I’ve always been interested just because of my parents’ work and because of some shadowing I’ve been able to do with them.”

Noreuil’s passion for the medical field can be attributed to her parents’ successful careers and influence, but arguably more because of the plethora of directions available for those interested in medicine.

“One thing that my mom has always told me is that [being a physician] is such a great job because there are really so many endless possibili-

Photo by Lauren Johnson

ties, you can teach, like my mom who is a professor as well as a pediatrician, do research, [or] you can be with patients. You have the opportunity to go anywhere [while] being very well-educated and surrounded by highly informed people.”

Specific classes at Washington as well as programs outside of school have been extremely beneficial for Noreuil on her path to success.

“I took AP Biology and pre-AP Chemistry as a sophomore as well as regular Bio [as a freshman] and I’m currently taking AP Chem. I went to Georgetown University and took a course on medicine where we were lectured by doctors and got to see cadavers as well as learn how to do a physical.”

The medical course at Georgetown University, Noreuil said, was a pivotal moment in her decision to become a doctor.

“I think that it would be wonderful for Anna to go into the [medical] field; she’s a very bright and responsible girl and we [Todd Noreuil and I] try to tell her if we think certain science or math classes could be helpful for her in medical school,” said Kim Keppler-Noreuil.

As a passionate member of Momentum, Concert Choir, Madrigals and a prominent component in Wash’s musicals, Noreuil looks to use the people skills and confidence she’s learned to enhance what is sure to be a gratifying career.

“I think music is just such a great thing to have; it’s a common ground that so many people share and [acting also] really helps you connect with other people and you lose that fear of meeting new people and speaking in public,” said Noreuil.

Noreuil understands the time commitment and personal sacrifice the medical field demands; her father is on call Drawing by Stacia Drafahl the majority of the time and Noreuil remembers frequent babysitters growing up. However, her parents attend all of her performances and activities. Regardless of the obligations, she is acutely interested in learning as much as she can in order to reach her ambitions.

“The world will always need doctors ... [being a physician] is the perfect way to give back to society ... it’s not all about getting paid, there are a lot of doctors who [are in the medical field] because they love it and they do it solely for other people.”

Correction from our January issue: Eli Wolter ’14’s stage name is spelt “Jak Majik”

A&E

Isaac Halyard

SurveyorWHS.ae@gmail.com

1-28-2011

11

iPhone vs.

Android: Who’s Anticipated albums the victor? of 2011 John Kopec Staff Writer

“Lasers”- Lupe Fiasco “Mission Bell”- Amos Lee “Born This Way”- Lady Gaga “Watch the Throne”- Kanye/Jay-Z

(From page 1) In fact, Android OS outsold iPhones during the first half of 2010. The explanation to the popularity statistics are simple, with Android OS serving multiple phone companies such as LG, Samsung, HTC, Motorola, etc., it will be more popular as it is run by a number of devices. Nevertheless, statistics still show Apple’s iOS as the leading smartphones in the Android OS vs. iPhone battle with Android OS accounting for 19 percent of the mobile market and Apple’s iOS at 28 percent.

“The iPhone is a revolutionary product, aside from a few flaws, and a huge step up from other phones. It’s a great call on Apple’s part in bringing the iPhone to Verizon and will have a huge explosion in the market, but with Verizon not offering it as a world phone it will limit its value among current Verizon customers who need to use their phones in foreign countries,” said Max McGee, ’11.

Both the Android OS and iPhone iOS offer cutting edge technology in today’s cell phone market. Both phones offer the latest and greatest features in handheld devices. Whether to get an Android or an iPhone will ultimately depend on personal preferences and brand loyalty.

“Kiss Each Other Clean”- Iron and Wine

“Musica+Alma+Sexo”- Ricky Martin

Coldplay- (Title Unannounced) “Zonoscope”- Cut Copy “Angels”- The Strokes “21”- Adele Graphic by Stacia Drafahl

Opera open to Wash students Kitty McGurk Staff Writer

“Music is my passion. It was a great opportunity to experience what I’m going to be doing for the rest of my life,” said “Tosca,” the opera recently put on at Haley Stamats, ’13.

Theatre Cedar Rapids, is filled with depicMost students involved would agree tions of torture, murder and suicide all the that they as a whole were in a way the while telling a tale of love and loss. The tale “black sheep.” The opera biz was foreign begins with an artist, Cavaradossi, working to majority of the teens and after signing a in a remarkably staged church on a painting contract indicating that all the music had of a beautiful woman. The main characto be memorized before rehearsal began, ter, Cavaradossi, played by Stephen Mark the students soon realized that it was sufBrown, struggles throughout the opera to ficiently time consuming. Students also keep his true love, found it difficult Tosca, played by to juggle school, Luther College extracurricular alumni, Caroline activities and an Worra. Cavaradossi opera on the side. and Tosca’s love is “I got the constantly tested by worst quiz score the frightening Scarof my life during pia, played by Todd this whole ordeal Thomas. “Tosca” and had to miss offered a typical out on qualopera experience. ity time with my Emotions were excousin while she pressed with lengthy was in town. Oh duets, pitches yeah, the main Photo by Natalee Birchansky downer of the were exceeded Miles Maurice at Tosca dress rehearsal. experience? No and I honestly didn’t understand Wash kids were one word anyone invited to the said. Although my appreciation for opera is cast party, but I’m sure it was for our own minimal, making my overall opinion harsh, good,” said Sofie Lenzen, ’13. the cast and crew is what truly made it Once the opera concludes, the audientertaining. ence is left with momentary utter confuTosca is presented with many profession considering the entire grim story line sional opera singers. However, it also gave was expressed through high pitched songs many elementary and high school students in a language most don’t understand. an opportunity to experience opera. Many However, once the pieces come together, Washington students were featured in this the true beauty of love and its ability to production and overall the experience was “kill” us is understood. I was able to commutually beneficial. Some took in the opprehend this greater meaning thanks to an portunity to meet new interesting kinds of idolized peer whom contributed substanpeople they had never been graced with. tially to this production.

“I met this really cool black guy from Jer“I literally couldn’t tell you what that sey named Dom,” said Miles Maurice, ’11. opera is about. I came when they told me Others were in the production for a and left when I could,” said Maurice. starting point to a career they may be interested in towards the future.

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1-28-2011

A&E

Isaac Halyard

SurveyorWHS.ae@gmail.com

“The King’s Speech” worth the Oscar hype

In the late 1930’s, the stammering speech impediment of a British monarch nearly became the symbol for the end of an empire. Instead, the correction of his impediment acted as an inspirational force to unify a nation on the verge of crumbling. This little known motivational story is captured in the film “The King’s Speech,” which was released in December.

The film follows Albert George, the second son of King George V of the United Kingdom. At a young age, George developed Isaac Halyard a severe stammer, which was only intensified when talking to large groups. As the Prince of the United Kingdom, he was A&E Editor constantly in the public eye, and his stammer became a problem.

This problem is highlighted in the opening scene of the film, where George bumbles and pauses his way through a speech that was broadcast across the United Kingdom.

In the 1920s, George began his quest for a cure for his stammer. He saw many doctors and therapists with varying methods, none of which seemed to help. When all seemed hopeless, George’s wife, Elizabeth, found Lionel Logue, a therapist with traditionally “unorthodox” methods, who George began seeing. As his speech improved, his family changed dramatically. On the doorstep of the second World War, George’s father, King George VI died.

When his older brother renounced his claim to the throne to marry a divorced woman, George was made King George VI. As his power came to a peak, George only became more apprehensive of his ability to lead. His stutter, while declining, was still present, and threatened his legitimacy as a king. The film climaxed with the King’s first wartime speech - a nationally broadcast speech addressing the United Kingdom’s entrance into World War II. With Logue nearby, the King delivered a fluent and powerful speech; exactly what the nation needed at the time. The speech was a sign that things could improve, including the dreary war situation the United Kingdom was about to enter.

The film has a very direct and beautiful cinematic style that includes many wide shots, where the actors are centered in the shot. This extended view of the backgrounds makes viewers feel like they’re in the scene, which is particularly engaging when the King ven-

4.5 out of 5 Warriors

tures to Westminster Abbey and Buckingham Palace.

The cinematography is only surpassed by the performance of the cast. The ensemble is led by Colin Firth, (“Love Actually”), who plays King George the VI. He delivers an inspiring performance that evokes the support of the viewers; with each extremely realistic stutter, viewers edge out of their seats, begging and hoping the words will flow freely from his mouth.

He is lovingly supported by his wife Elizabeth, played by Helena Bonham Carter (“Sweeney Todd,”) and coached by Geoffrey Rush (“Pirates of the Caribbean,”) who both provide equally inspiring performances.

Such powerful performances have already brought about Oscar talk for the cast, primarily Firth’s likely nomination for Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role. Earlier this month, Firth won the Golden Globe for Best Performance by an Actor in a Drama Photo from http:// heyuguys.co.uk Motion Picture. The film is also expected to be nominated for Best Picture.

“The King’s Speech” is a thought-provoking, inspirational story that could not have been better told.

Better to “Stumble” than search John Kopec Staff Writer Search engines may not always be the most efficient way to locate relevant content. They usually result in excessive advertisements and unreliable links.

However, there is a more reliable and personal database for people to rely on.

StumbleUpon provides users with high quality pages apt to your personal preferences. StumbleUpon members are taken directly to web sites matching their personal interests and preferences using combination of human opinions and machine learning technology. StumbleUpon immediately delivers you high quality, relevant content that has been suggested by other users. It uses ratings to form certain opinions on web site quality that only friends and other like-minded “Stumblers” have recommended.

“It’s just like Facebook, I can’t stay away from it and it’s definitely a step up from Google,” said Nicole Thinge, ’12.

StumbleUpon emphasizes a sense of discovery rather than utility compared to Google. It uses a one-click access to quality web sites and a dual level rating system which allows users to give their opinion on any web page with a single click.

These ratings also connect people sharing a unique combination of interest, allowing them to further improve their web-surfing experience. StumbleUpon allows users to create their own profile to maximize their web discovery or entice friends. This also gives users the option to review other Stumblers and join groups discussing every subject.

StumbleUpon is a simple one-click process giving users the opportunity to surf the web safely and adequately.

Though Google seems to continue to “make bank,” http://www.stumbleupon. com is constantly becoming more popular and being used to find sufficient data or for entertainment purposes.

“Modern Family”: Easy to relate Chloe Kohl Staff Writer

The critically acclaimed sitcom, “Modern Family,” has been taking over television with its hilarious family shenanigans since 2009. Viewers are now in the middle of the second season and enjoying every minute of it.

“Modern Family” first intrigued the masses with its mockumentary film style and convoluted family problems. The show airs every Wednesday night on ABC at 8 p.m. and was created by Christopher Lloyd and Steven Levitan in Los Angles. It chronicles the lives of three main immediate families.

One family is fathered by a divorced dad named Jay Pritchett, who is played by Ed O’Neil who also played Al Bundy on "Married with Children.” He remarried a young, single Colombian mother named Gloria Pritchett, who is played by Sofia Vergara.

A second family is Jay Pritchett’s daughter’s, Claire Dunphy, played by Julie Bowen. She has two teenage daughters with husband Phil Dunphy, played by Ty Burrell. Burrell’s character is always desperate for appreciation by his father-in-law, Jay. The last family is also the child of Jay Pritchett named Mitchell Pritchett, played

by Jesse Ferguson. Ferguson's character is an out gay man who is raising an adopted Vietnamese child with his partner, Cameron Tucker, played by Eric Stonestreet.

The show has been compared to other shows about oddball families like “Arrested Development.” “Modern Family” cut off the edge that “Arrested Development” kept and replaced it with simple, more realistic situations.

“It is a great portrayal of modern society, but funnier. It helps us deal with the issues of today,” said Alex McFarland, ’12.

For so many people, it’s easy to relate to this crazy family, and even easier to laugh at them.

The show’s slight controversial twist creates some of its funniest moments. In one instance Stonestreet's character is wearing a pair of exposing bike shorts. So exposing in fact, his male anatomy has to be blurred.

The show’s seemingly instant popularity is also what led to its three Emmy Awards for Outstanding Comedy Series, Writing for a Comedy Series, and an individual award to Stonestreet for Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series.

With all these Emmys along with mostly positive reviews, it’s no secret why even Washington is raving with praise.

“I just think it’s hilarious,” said Christopher Parrish, a Washington biology teacher.

“I find something to laugh at every time I watch it.”

The show’s overwhelming support and off-kilter hilarity proves that they are going stay right where they are, mainly because they’ve already reached the top.

Joe Eken

SurveyorWHS.sports@gmail.com

Sports

1-28-2011

Challenges on and off the mat

13

Natalie Neppl Staff Writer Wrestling is not only physically challenging, but also mentally challenging. The commitment wrestlers devote to the sport begins before the season begins. Cutting weight is demanding and a full time process. The wrestlers cut weight to meet certain requirements for weight classes at meets throughout the season.

Weston Burdt, ’14, a member of the Warrior wrestling team, has lost four of the five pounds he needs to lose. He drinks fluids constantly throughout the day and watched what he eats very closely. Burdt began cutting weight as soon as Thanksgiving break began.

“I eat a fist full of food per meal. I mainly eat bread, and very little meat and fish,” said Burdt.

Trey Schuler, ’14, another member of the Warrior wrestling team has cut nine of the 12 pounds he is hoping to lose. Because he has more weight to lose, his weight loss process is more demanding. Schuler’s daily menu includes eggs for breakfast, an apple for lunch and lean meat with chocolate milk for dinner. The average amount of food he consumes each day totals to less than a pound.

“For Thanksgiving, I ate vegetables and lean meat, then immediately ran eight miles to work it off,” said Schuler.

There is a safe way and strategy for going about cutting weight.

“I would suggest cutting a little weight every day. One to two pounds daily leading to a match is healthy,” said Coach J.P. Graham.

These two, along with the rest of the Washington wrestling team are passionately devoted to the many aspect the sport requires.

Winter Sports Glory

Men’s Swimming 1961 1964-74 1976 1977 1980 1983

1985 1987-90 1992 1994-97 2008

Photo by Amy Parker

J.P. Graham walks amidst the wrestlers during practice.

A look back at all the state championships won

by Wash teams during the winter trimester.

Men’s Gymnastics 1966-70 1972-75 1983

Women’s Gymnastics

1969 Women’s Basketball 1970 Men’s Wrestling Men’s Basketball 1976 1988 1977 1969 1969 1995 1979

Warrior women hope to continue winning ways M.J. Kamin Staff Writer The Warrior women’s basketball team went undefeated heading into winter break for the first time ever this year. Since then, they have suffered tough losses to the Iowa City West Trojans and the Linn-Mar Lions. The Warriors started off the year ranked fifth in the state, but since then they have fallen to sixth after their two tough losses.

Head coach Frank Howell says the greatest part of this team’s game is their versatility.

“We have players that can go inside, outside and drive to the basket,” said Howell.

The Warriors have three players that have been in the starting lineup since they were sophomores: Tia Dawson, Al Oney and Ashley Piper, all ’11.

“We are a bit more experienced, we have an excellent bench and a number of great players,” said Howell.

Their versatility shows in their margin of victory, which ranges from 37 points to only six.

Jordan Pilcher, ’11, thinks the season has been very good so far.

“It’s going pretty well. We have only had two losses, and they were both ranked above us in the state. At Iowa City West, we just didn’t play well, and against LinnMar, we lost in the last second.”

“With our schedule it would be really hard to go undefeated,” said Howell. The three game stretch that the Warriors have just underwill been the three Frank Howell gone toughest regular season match ups they will face all year.

Howell says it is hard to know what to expect at state, because first round pairings aren’t available yet. Since the losses for the Warriors have only been by five or fewer points, it shows that they will be able to compete at state.

Howell has very high hopes for the team as well as lots of confidence in what they are going to be able to accomplish in the regular season and in the state tournament.

“As long as we keep working hard at practice, we will be able to have a good chance to compete at state,” said Pilcher.

During practice, the Warriors run drills at a quick pace, but play is slowed down as well to teach certain aspects of the game.

“I want them to create a vibe, whether I’m in the gym or not,” said Howell.

“We are always moving up and down the court, not really standing around a lot,” said Layloni Beard, ’11.

Team chemistry between all the girls is great. Most of them are friends on and off the court, which makes working together on a team a lot easier. “There is not a lot of drama,” Pilcher said.

Washington’s next game is at Jefferson versus the Jayhawks. The state tournament begins on Feb. 16th.

“We are a bit more experienced, we have an excellent bench and a number of great players.”

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Sports

1-28-2011

Joe Eken

SurveyorWHS.sports@gmail.com

Battle of the fans

Jill Broghammer Staff Writer

all as a kid and liked sports so I stayed connected to them by being a fan,” said Detweiler.

Wright became a UNC fan in second grade because he liked the colors and his dad is from North Carolina, therefore the team quickly became his favorite. Wright started to really enjoy learning about the team and the more he learned, the bigger the fan he became.

“I’m not changing my favorite team,” said Wright. “Duke is a team full of players who can shoot and they’re good but they’re really cocky which makes me dislike them even more.”

Wright also does not participate in any sports but has fun following the sports teams.

“It’s not fun to participate in sports, it’s more fun to follow them. Sports at Wash are too serious to have fun at them and I’m all about having fun, so I just follow Photo by Amy Parker sports instead,” said Wright.

Washington High School’s most acclaimed sports fans, Zach Detweiler, ’11, and Bryant Wright, ’11, may agree on some things but their favorite basketball teams couldn’t be more different.

Detweiler is a Duke University fan while Wright is a University of North Carolina fan, teams that happen to be rivals.

Detweiler became a Duke fan when he was around the age of eight or nine. At the time Duke won the national championship two years in a row and Detweiler was a bandwagon Duke fan. Being a Duke fan has stuck with him ever since. Detweiler’s loyalty to Duke also brings out his hatred towards Duke’s rival team UNC. “It came natural to me to hate UNC,” said Detweiler.

“Everyone else at school was a UNC fan which made me hate them even more. Also their colors suck. That blue could not be any more feminine.”

Detweiler does not participate in any of the sports that he follows, but has participated in school tennis in the past years.

Bryant Wright and Zach Detweiler, both ’11 “duke” it out.

“I suck at every sport known to man and played them

Zach and Bryant discuss the sports world’s hottest topics What are your feelings about LeBron going to Miami?

Zach: I hated it. I’m a huge Lakers fan, but he definitely had the best opportunity to win a ring at Miami.

Bryant: LeBron is desperate to win a ring. I think he should have stayed with the Cavaliers or gone to the Bulls.

Who do you think is going to win March Madness this year?

Zach: If Kyrie Irving comes back then definitely Duke, but if he doesn’t then Ohio State or still Duke. With Kyrie Irving, Duke is unstoppable.

Bryant: Duke could win if their point guard comes back and if not, then Ohio State has a good chance to win.

Who do you have picked to win the Super Bowl this year?

Zach: The Steelers. Big Ben is a proven winner especially when it matters most, and the Steelers have a really good defensive team.

Bryant: The Steelers. Their defense is super good and they have a good, tight line.

They can really keep other teams from scoring.

Should Brett Favre have come back for another season?

Zach: He should have retired after last season. He had a great season and could have gone out with a bang, but instead he came back and did terrible.

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Bryant: He should have retired! He is older than my mom! It’s like retire already and quit letting 25-year-olds beat you up.

Air Washpun?

Wes Washpun, a senior on the men’s basketball team has been known for his electrifying dunks. How high is his ridiculous vertical? 42 inches.

The world record for a vertical leap is 60 inches by Kadour Ziani.

Jessica, Owner Stylist/Colorist

The average vertical leap by NBA players is 28 inches.

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The average vertical leap of 2008 NFL draft picks was 29.9 inches according to the NFL Draft Scout.

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Michael Jordan had a vertical leap of 48 inches.

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Photo by Amy Parker

Joe Eken

SurveyorWHS.sports@gmail.com

Sports

Fisher stays on top of his game Joe Eken Staff Writer

By day he is a math teacher, writing equations, drawing graphs and molding the minds of America’s next generation. But when the final bell tolls and the school day ends, Timothy Fisher transforms into a ferocious athlete, a king of the racquetball court.

Fisher started playing racquetball in college after finding out there were courts on campus and fell in love with the game.

“It’s a game you can play for most of your life. Its competitive and good exercise,” said Fisher.

Fisher competes in a league at the MAC and, while playing helps keep him in shape, he also enjoys the mental aspects of the game.

“With experience you learn shots beginners don’t know. It’s not about athleticism but knowing the shots and the angles,” said Fisher.

Although he didn’t play any sports in high school, Fisher played tennis in college, which he says has mixed effects on his racquetball game.

“Sometimes it helps racquetball, sometimes it hurts it. In racquetball you use your wrist more,” said Fisher.

Fisher has even taken his skills into a match against Associate Principal Mike Johnson, Washington’s other racquetball maniac.

“He kicked my butt,” Fisher said.

Photo by Amy Parker Racquetball may Timothy Fisher poses with his racquetball equipment be a noncontact sport but it’s not without its risks.

“It’s dangerous when you play with people who don’t know what they’re doing. One time I took a backhand right across the bridge of my nose. I came to school a little bloody that morning,” said Fisher.

1-28-2011

High Rollers

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Joe Berry Staff Writer In terms of sports, winter is thought of as basketball and men’s swimming season, but less thought of and just as impressive is Washington’s bowling teams. The bowling teams, coached by Monica Reeves (men’s) and Traci Mooney (women’s), compete as a winter sport here and are having more success than in years past.

“We placed 2nd at the Prairie Invitational last week, both the men’s and women’s team,” said women’s bowling team coach, Traci Mooney.

At the same tournament in 2010 the team did not place.

Mooney attributes this new success to bowling in leagues. “We have many bowlers in leagues this year, so they are bowling all year instead of just during the season.”

The teams practice at Lancer Lanes and May City Bowl after school on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays. Wednesdays are fitness day’s here at Washington. Fitness days consist of running, push-ups, crunches, and other strengthening activities.

For bowling Friday’s are competition days. At competitions only the top six bowlers attend as competitors, but other bowling team members are invited to cheer them on.

The competitions have two rounds, the Individual round and the Baker round. In the first round, an individual round, the six bowlers each bowl a straight ten-frame game. In the second round, the Baker round, the team bowls five games in Baker format.

In Baker format, five individuals bowl two frames per game. At the end of both rounds the total pinfall is added up to determine the winner.

“It is both round’s that count, so you could bowl really well in round one but bad in round two and lose, or you could bowl bad in round one and then awesome in round two and win,” said Mooney.

The season is not yet halfway over but the teams are bringing in some impressive results.

On the men’s side, the team is shelling out some impressive numbers with an average individual score of 188.4 and an average bakers score of 190.4.

Quincy Bruce, ’13, is leading the team with an average score of 199.1 and a high score of 248. He is followed closely by teammates Ryan Bundy, ’11 and Zach Christensen, ’13.

The women’s team is also performing well with individual scores averaging 158.5 and baker scores averaging 156.9.

Keeley Pernicka, ’14, is leading the team with an average score of 174.1 and a high score of 254. Ashley Duffy, ’13 and Rachel Spencer, ’11, follow closely behind.

With these kind of numbers the team should be expected to have a great rest of the season.

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Ellen Hart

SurveyorWHS.photos@gmail.com

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