The Future Is Ours Issue 4 by Ben Graeber

Volume 110, Issue 4 Febuary 2015

North High School 501 Holcomb Ave Des Moines, IA 50313. A public fourm for student expression

TOC

THE

Future Is Ours

THE_SNAPS

IssUE Pg. 3

In case you missed it

MLK Jr's Niece Visits NHS Love rally protests Westboro Baptist Church

Pg. 4

THE_Features

What is kindness to you? Discuss, argue, debate

Pg. 5

the news School starting date

Community College: Free for all?

Creative_arts Teen Summit IHSSA Contest

THE_O's_Opinions_

Pg. 6-7 Pg. 8-9

Rising Success of "American Sniper” A Dream is a Dream, Nothing Less Not Just a Word Junioritis Feuding with Fire It's us against the world

Pg. 10-11

sports

As The Ball Rolls... Dimmed Spotlight PAige Hennick: On to State Lationna Robinson Ad Edwards: On to State Basketball Report

COVER_PHOTO_CREDIT:

oracle staff

cover models:

PHOTO CRED: North High Oracle student Photojournalists

Rachael Nash

Taj milton, rayshawna collier Austin pitts, jasmine moreno

Executive Editor & Chief Storyteller – Hatte Kelley Executive Editor & Master of Design – Iliana Castillo Copy Editor & Social Media Director – Michael xayavong & Jasmine Moreno Sports Director – Tanna Jones News Editor – Kelsey Ambrose Features Editor – Sammi Linebach Opinions Editors – Hannah Mcnichols Creative Arts Editors – Cheyann neades Photography Editor – Taj Milton Cover Guru- Rachael Nash Adviser: Jennifer Dryden

Reporters; Rayshawna Collier Madison Houska Reagan Clay Adrianna Dedmond Somerle Rhiner Makayla Patterson

Jasmine Moreno Austin Pitts Kyle Siberz Ariel Wilson Kirsten Niblo Alexis Barnes Hannah Varela

IN_CASE_YOU_MISSED_IT ORACLE TWEETS

MLK JUNIOR's NIECE VISITS NHS By: Cheyann Neades

As North High’s auditorium started to fill with an estimate of 400 people, the Isiserettes (a drill and dance group that helps the youth) danced down the aisle followed by a drum line to overtake the stage. They brought excitement to the crowd that matched Dr. Alveda King, Dr. Martin Luther King Junior’s niece’s, enthusiasm for being in Des Moines on January 19. At the sound of the horn, the North Soul Gospel Choir took the stage and used their voices to prepare the crowd for the powerful event, which moved everyone in the auditorium to stand and join them in song. Reverend Al Perez, the emcee, felt that this gathering would help people unite. “We as people need to come together, spread peace and end racial barriers,” he explained. Reverend Perez mentioned Des Moines representatives, Superintendent Tom Ahart, Mayor Frank Cownie and law enforcement lieutenants. When they came up to speak, they described Des Moines as a city, ways to improve and how to join as a community. After brief introductions, Dr. Alveda King (MLK Jr.’s niece, a minister, author and activist) approached the podium and shared her knowledge, advice and experience she has gained throughout her life. Her words of wisdom display her uncle’s legacy that she continues to spread throughout society. Dr. Alveda King’s goal is to reach out and express her wisdom to a small amount of people, and allow that to later effect a large variety and make a differ-

ence in the world today. “Kids don’t say ‘my black friend’ or ‘my white friend,’ they just say ‘my friend,’” Dr. Alveda King stated as she explained how today’s youth interacts. Simple ideas that she discovers through human communication inspire her to spread hope in anyway she is able to. Reverend Perez then called two pastors to join him onstage, to then ask them for forgiveness. “We serve one boss, one CEO, one God,” he said after apologizing to them for the racial barrier that may have segregated their churches over the years. In hopes of continuing that message sent by Dr. Alveda King and Reverend Perez, pastors and ministers came together in a prayer “huddle” to unite as one. Specific topics such as school districts, the youth, government and collaboration were recognized during this time. To seal the event, Roosevelt’s Bridges 2 Harmony empowered the stage with joyful music. The whole auditorium joined in song as the closing occurred. The words spoken by the leaders of our community left everyone in the auditorium with high emotion. The messages delivered created a new beginning for the Des Moines community and its people.

LOVE RALLY PROTESTS WESTBORO BABPTIST CHURCH By: Reagan Clay & Hatte Kelley With an estimated 1,000 protesters, East High School was packed with Des Moines students and community members rallying to show Westboro Baptist Church protesters that Des Moines creates love, not hate. During the announced protest time, January 26 at 12:30-1 p.m., East High School was at lunch, increasing the number of participants. At 1 p.m., East High administrators made an announcement for East students to return to class. The protesters then dispersed.

Rally attendance featured students, bikers, administrators, church advocates, families and pets. Chalk street art was scattered to voice opinions. Many were holding signs and flags or chanting things such as, “Peace and love. Love and Peace” and “L-U-V D-S-M”. Having this being Westboro Baptist Church’s “Stomp the Flag” tour, according to their Twitter account, many brought American flags draped over their shoulders.

CHECK US OUT! Follow us on Twitter: @NorthHighOracle And visit our website: Northhsoracle.com The Oracle posts any live events we can get to, check out some of our tweets at the top. We cover events from small to big, for example we were at school on Martin Luther King Jr.’s day to keep you updated about Dr. Alveda King, his niece. Wherever there’s news, we’ll follow it. Just like the love rally at East High School to protest against the Westboro Babtist Church. If you can’t be there, we’ve got you covered. Give us a follow and we’ll keep you updated!

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Features

What is kindness to you? By Alexis Barnes

Everyone has his or her own definitions of kindness. Everyone shows kindness in there own way. Everyone one has a different point of view on kindness. Teachers Karen Hight, Anna Brown, and Cheyenne Hayes explain their views on kindness.

Karen Hight says she was raised to be respectful. Photo credit: Alexis Barnes Q:What does kindness mean to you? Cheyenne Hayes: “Kindness means thinking of others before yourself. It means you try to make another human beings life better”. Karen Hight: “Giving of yourself without expecting anything in return”. Anna Brown: “Kindness to me, is putting others above yourself ”. Q: Do you feel you need to be kind? Why? CH: “Humans have the ability to be kind or cruel. Although kindness is not a need, it should be an attribute that all humans strive to obtain. Kindness and compassion separate us from other species. The

world is only as good as we make it, so it baffles me that people don’t desire to be kind to others”. KH: “Yes. To get respect you must give it, and being kind is a natural outlet of that behavior”. AB: “I do feel like people (including myself) need to be kind”.

KH: “I thank them and react in a kind way”. AB: “When someone is kind to me, I try to show my appreciation”. Q:When was the last time someone was kind to you? CH: “In small ways, people are kind daily you just have you look for the good in people. People open doors, students compliment me, students try to get others on task, and my boys helped me shovel the snow. Kindness doesn’t have to be in big measures in order to notice and appreciate it”. KH: “When I was ill in October, my significant other made me soup and took care of me”. AB: “If I look for acts of kindness, I see them all the time”.

Q:Do you think how you are raised does and/or can affect how kind you are? CH: “I definitely believe how a person is raised has an impact on how kind they are. Children who do not have sound, moral and positive influences in their lives are being set up for failure from the very beginning. Children lead by example, so if their parents are really selfless, it’s unlikely that their children will grow up differently; breaking the cycle of negativity is extremely difficult but not impossible”. KH: “Yes. Growing up, I was taught to be respectful of others”. AB: “I do think that how you are raised can affect the way you act including the value you place on Cheyenne Hayes explains how kindness, but I don’t think it’s the only factor”. kindess and compassion seper-

Q:When was the last time you were nice to someone? What did you do? CH: “I’d like to think I also perform nice actions on a daily basis. I try to work with students, even if they don’t necessarily appreciate it. I believe it’s the small day-to-day actions that make us a good person”. KH: “I’m always nice! I bought a homeless man ate us and make us different. Q:What do you do when breakfast at the Waveland someone is kind to you? café”. Photo Credit: Alexis Barnes CH: “When someone is AB: “In a similar way, I try kind I always try to make to do kind things frequently sure and show gratitude and reciprocate the kindtoo. I guess the most recent was this morning I put ness”. a happy note in his lunch box”.

Q:Starbucks customers are known to pay for the person behind them in the driveway. What would you do in this situation? Why? CH: “I have had a customer pay for my Starbucks before. I just paid it forward and bought the coffee for the car behind me. Reciprocity. That’s how kindness spreads”.

Anna Brown tells of how she sometimes puts happy notes in her sons lunchbox as an act of kindness. Photo credit: Alexis Barnes KH: “I guess it would depend on who was behind me! Do they look like someone who could use the help? (And if yes, why are they at Starbucks?!)”. AB: “It would certainly make my day! My husband and I have done some similar “random act of kindness”. I also encourage my son to leave quarters on the gumball machine for the next kid and things like that. The random acts of kindness are fun. But you don’t always get to see the person’s reaction. You just have to trust that it helped someone and hope they pass it on.

Discuss, Argue, Debate By Rayshawna Collier What is debate exactly? A debate is when two teams are given a topic and they have a limited time to debate over it. Students typically don’t know what the topic is going to be. One team will argue pro and the other team will argue the cons. Once students hear the topic, they will start coming up with main topics and statements. Not all arguments are true, it’s more about making arguments that help debaters better understand their own and other debates positions. A few things to do when you’re debating: talk at a fast speed so you sound intelligent and so you have enough time to say everything you want, but make sure to speak clearly. Change up the tone every once in a while when debating because it’s not very entertaining to listen to the same tone the entire debate. Use eye contact, it’s good to make eye contact with the audience every once in a while. There’s not just a certain subject that is debated, there are many. You debate at different locations like in Okoboji Iowa, Iowa city and around the metro. Debate is a great way to practice speeches and feeling comfortable speaking in front of crowds. If you are interested in debate, they practice in room 2425 on Tuesdays 3-5 and Wednesdays 1-4.

Debate Q & A with Steven Schappaugh Q: How long have you been interested in debate? A: “For quite some time, I debated for north High school from 1998-2002.” Q: How did you get into debate? A: “My middle school counselor signed me up for the class.”

Q: Is there any advice you have for people in debate or that want to join? A: “There’s no harm in trying, so if it’s something you’re even remotely thinking about I think it’s worth the time to try and get involved. The second thing I would say is there are three categories of events that we compete in, that means that we have over ten individual events that a student could do, so if you like to debate there’s a place for you, if you like to speak publicly there’s a place for you, maybe if you’re more of an acting type there’s a place for you. I know that North has a really vibrant theatre program, and the speech festival is something that the team does on a yearly basis and does quite successfully and a number of the events we do overlap with those events, so kids in those events can get extra practice by doing speech and debate, but really there’s just an event for everybody so it’s just worth giving it a try.” Q: What should you expect to get out of being on the debate team? A: “You’re going to make friends, that maybe you wouldn’t of met before, not only on the North team but students from other schools that you get interact with that maybe you normally wouldn’t, I think the social aspect is obviously something that is appealing to students, but from an academic perspective, you become a quicker thinker, you become a better writer, obviously a better speaker, I just think that people with self confidence improves greatly.” Q: Where does the debate team debate? A: “We started the team in November and we have competed at tournaments in the metro area, however this semester we’ll be going to an Okoboji Iowa tournament, Iowa city once or twice for tournaments, and then we hope to in the future travel

regionally outside of the state.” Q: Are there any big events coming up? A: “Actually this Friday and Saturday we are hosting a speech and debate tournament, here at north, it’s a fundraiser and opportunity for our kids to get more rounds of competitions in, the next weekend is the national qualifier in Okoboji and then there’s the state tournament in Iowa city.”

economic based is a little bit more difficult to face, topics that deal with international issues are also sometimes more difficult because we’re a lot more aware of everything around us in the United States but we’re not always aware of what’s happening globally, so that could present difficulties at times.”

Q: How many big events does the debate team have? A: “It depend on what you define as big but I can say this year we will make it to at least seven competitions, and I would imagine that next school year it will double to 14.” Q: How many times do you guys meet a week? A: “We meet twice a week, Tuesdays after school from 3-5 and Wednesdays from 1-4.” Q: What are some of your favorite debate topics? A: “Well there’s a topic that’s been debated a couple of times since I have been in the activity about whether or not an oppressive government is better than anarchy that’s my personal favorite from when I debated but since then there’s been debates about an arrange of things, I think that every topic has something interesting about it, the really cool thing about debate is when you see a topic at first glance you may think oh this is really stupid or terrible but when you do in depth research you can start to see new things about the topic that then provide some pressing angles that you can do debate about.” Q: What do you think the hardest topic to debate about is? A: “Economic topics, I think they are very complicated theories about economics that just aren’t as intuitive as some other events so anything that’s

The debate team meets every Tuesday 3-5 p.m. and Wednesday 1-4 p.m in Room 2425. Junior Renz Caducoy and Senior Carlos Ostorga practice their debating skills on Tuesday, February 17th. Photo Credit: Rayshawna Collier.

go to northhsoracle.com to read other articles

News

Community College: Free For All? By: Sammi Linebach What if someone told you that you could have up to two years of free secondary education? Obama has recently offered a plan that allows every American (who is willing to work for it) a free trip to community college for two years. As many questions arise, not many details were revealed at first. The White House estimated that the cost of the program would be “roughly $60 billion over 10 years” and would, if all states choose to participate, include about 9 million students, said an administration official. The president didn’t dive into the details of his program, but rather made a broader case that attending community college shouldn’t be any more expensive than public high school is today. Under the White House’s plan, the offer of free tuition would extend to all students if they attend classes at least half the time and maintain a grade point average of 2.5 or better. On a GPA conversion chart, a 2.5 means a B- student. In this case, C’s do not get free degrees. Other requirements for this program involve community colleges and the Federal Government. The Federal Government would cover up to 75 percent of the costs of the initiative, while states would have to pick up the remaining quarter, if they choose to participate in this program. Community colleges will be expected to offer programs that are either 1) academic programs that fully transfer credits to local public four-year colleges and universities, or 2) occupational training programs with high graduation rates and lead to in-demand degrees and certificates. Community colleges must also adopt promising

and evidence-based institutional reforms to improve student outcomes, according to Whitehouse.gov. The Washington Post referenced Obama as he said, “America thrived in the 20th century in large part because we made high school the norm... eventually the world caught on, and the world caught up, and that’s why we have to lead the world in education again.” In Obama’s 2015 State of The Union Address, he briefly touched on the topic of free education. Not many more details were given, but before he shifted quickly into employment, he did say he wanted to spread the idea of free education “all across America, so that two years of college becomes as free and universal in America as high school is today. And I want to work with this Congress, to make sure Americans already burdened with student loans can reduce their monthly payments, so that student debt doesn’t derail anyone’s dreams.” As for now, we can only hope and wait for this to come true. As for my graduating class of 2015, free college seems to be still so far away. As for future graduating classes, hopefully more progress and discussion is made. One can assume that everyone is on board for free education. Well this “one” is wrong. Change is not a word in the republicans’ vocabulary. Many republicans around the US are criticizing Obama and his efforts to better the lower and middle classes of America. It is said that because of the high price tag, Obama’s plan is unlikely to pass in the republican controlled congress.

do. Matthew Chingos is head of education policy research at the Brookings Institution. “It’s going to spend resources out over a large number of students, as a result not be generous enough for people who need the help and be too generous for people who don’t need the help,” said Chingos. Some claim that the neediest students may not benefit as much from this plan as a straightforward increase to the Pell Grant (A Pell Grant is money the government provides for students who need it to pay for college), as some funds will go to students without financial need. Some people fear that Obama’s plan may raise taxes on many daily objects to help pay for the program. Although Obama has stated he is raising taxes on the wealthy people, once a new presidential election occurs, who knows what will happen. But those in favor say the plan would more than pay for itself, reducing high school dropout rates and improving U.S. competitiveness abroad. However, even with all the odds, people around the world are hoping this plan gets passed. This sends a clear message that Community College is an affordable option for all students. Even though tuition and fees make up a small portion of the total cost of attendance—and it is unclear if all students will see additional savings from this plan—telling students early on that tuition will be free may induce more to prepare for college and eventually enroll.

It’s not just politics, though. Some say Obama’s plan uses a sledgehammer where a chisel might

Iowa schools may start earlier By: Jasmine Moreno Imagine this: you’re taking your AP exams trying to remember everything you ever learned in class. Even after all those hours of studying, it still wasn’t enough to fully prepare you for this exam. Your mind is blank and you’re running out of time. If only you had an extra week or two to prepare for these exams. This could be a possibility for the next school year if the school board does change the beginning school date. It doesn’t seem like that big of a change from a week or so from September to starting school the 1st of September, it can make a difference though. Besides school ending later on in June, students taking AP classes will not have enough time to fully prepare for the exams in May. This change won’t be as big of a change for students at North High School since we typically start school a week or two before September. “For the Des Moines schools it won’t be that drastic of a change. While Ankeny or Waukee get a much more drastic change,” said School Improvement Leader, Benjamin Graeber. This topic can have both good and bad things about it. All of this being on the students and how they react towards this. “This gives kids and parents an opportunity to put this coming summer behind and get ready for the next school year,” said Councilor, Kimber Foshe. This can be true if students use this opportunity to start the new month and school year to get back into their old school routine. A few students who have heard of this aren’t necessarily agreeing with it. “I feel like I wouldn’t

be ready for what might be on the AP exams with this setback,” said sophomore, Danielle EspinosaGonzales Bellolio. This might be what a lot of students feel next school year, but besides just the AP Exams the school would be different. For example, instead of the school year ending near the end or May or beginning of June, school would be ending later on in June. “Towards the end of the year I’m not going to want to go to school since it will be hot and most students want to get out earlier,” said junior, Alejandra Villanueva. In total, nothing is confirmed yet. These are just possibilities if the school board doesn’t get enough valid reasons on how these changes will affect students in a negative way.

The latest as of Feburary 16:

Last week, the Iowa House Education Committee moved forward with a bill that would allow schools to start no ealier than Aug. 23. A bill in the Senate, which would allow local educators to set their school calanders, is headed to the floor for debate. It’s unclear whether the Democratic-led Senate and Republicanled House can reach a consensus on the dueling bills. Whatever is decided must also e agreeable to Gov. Terry Branstand, who has supported later start dates. -The Des Moines Register

For more stories, go to Northhsoracle.com

cREATIVE_aRTS teen summit Cheyann Neades

Kristopher Rollins and Emily Lang started Movement 515 as an orginization to help the youth speak up and express themselves. They set up events such as Teen Summit (that set up two days of workshops) and Share the Mic (where they speak to raise money for their cause of choice) to get their voices into the community. This is what they had to offer.

Davonte Binion, Russhaun Johnson and Julio Delgadillo perform a poem on day one.

Shannon Matesky and José Vadi answer questions from audience during their Q&A.

Day One Energy, positivity and activism filled the room on Friday, January 30 for the 2nd annual Teen Summit, ran by the RUN DSM program and central classes Urban Leadership 101/102. To begin the two day event, RUN DSM leader and Urban Leadership teacher, Kristopher Rollins opened with introductions of this year’s Teen Summit spotlighted topics which featured women’s rights, LGBTQ rights, police brutality, race and poverty. He also began to pump up the high schoolers and their teachers who attended to kick off the exciting day.

Freshman Jasmine Inthabounh expresses her Poets Words and Melody Taylor guide students on how to write their own poems. view on women’s rights through poetry.

“Respect, build each other up and not tear anyone down and display your energetic reciprocity” Rollins explained. To prepare for the town hall meetings, group poetry was performed by teens over the featured topics. Soon after, everyone was split into separate rooms, with one of the different subjects for everyone discuss and express their beliefs. To continue the day, everyone gathered to the first original space for a lunch and dance party. The hour involved the DM Breakaz to help everyone get up and moving. After, everyone got their creative juices flowing and experienced their assigned artistic workshops. Graffiti, street art, written expression and behind the stage were the four different areas that involved spray painting, designing, writing and continuation of performing poetry.

The Teen Summit participants mingle and take pictures during lunch and dance party.

Pictures of Urban Leadership students displayed on walls of the theater.

Leaders Emily Lang and Kristopher Rollins open Teen Summit.

Sophomore Harry Nguyen performs a poem over LGBTQ rights.

Speaker Shannon Matesky explains to students what more you can do with your wise words and poetry.

Freshman Shannon McGuire and junior Kameron James finish spray painting their street art.

The creativity, activism and courageous actions were shown by the youth on only the first day, but there is more in store.

Day Two The following day, Saturday January 31, began with a documentary called Broken City Poets, which displayed four poets in a torn down city in California and the story of their lives, passion and love for writing. The documentary was developed by the organization Off/Page Project and Youth Speaks, ran by José Vadi, Shannon Matesky and Natasha Huey. After the screening, Matesky, Huey and Vadi did a question and answer with the audience to explain their experiences and their motivation to inspire using youth activism. Later on in the day, the theater was welcoming the public for Movement 515”s spoken word performances. Nearly over thirty DMPS high school students went onto the stage, covering the topics of women’s rights, LGBTQ rights, police brutality, race and poverty.

All Teen Summit photos by Cheyann Neades

Creative_Arts

IHSSA ConteSt Michael Xayavong The Iowa High School Speech Association (IHSSA) hosts two types of contests a year, large group and individual. This is a chance for all theater kids around the state to perform and showcase their talents in many different categories. North participated in large group contest this year, along with that, we hosted districts in our building for over ten schools from the Des Moines area. It’s been three years since we hosted the contest. In 2012, there was a fire in North and we had to make a sudden move to Roosevelt. This year, we have all the information you need to know about the success we had.

Sophomores Cassady Kelly and LeeLee Hill viewing their ratings at district contest here at North on January 24th.

Districts

State

On January 24th, North High School hosted the IHSSA (Iowa High School Speech Association) district contest, where we hosted 13 different schools from around the area to compete with high schools statewide.

On February 7th, Valley High School hosted the IHSSA state contest, where an estimated 85 schools went and competed. The day started at 7am and ended at 5:30pm.

Our school sent 13 groups in total, 11 varsity and 2 freshman groups in musical theater, reader’s theater, improvisation, radio broadcast, short film, group mime, and ensemble acting.

Schools preparing to perform in the North High gymnasium during district contest.

In a long day, aside from hosting, all the groups worked hard and 9 groups moved onto state contest.

The groups that recieved an overall/superior “1” rating, have a chance to be nominated for Large group All-State. An event that North hasn’t participated in for two years.

Category/Group: Rating: Musical Theater: Ragtime 1 Wicked 1 Tick, Tick.. Boom 1

Category/Group: Rating: Musical Theater: Ragtime 1+1+1=1 Wicked 1+2+2=2 Tick, Tick.. Boom 1+1+1=1

Radio Broadcast: T n’ T News 1 GE News 1

Radio Broadcast: T n’ T News 1+2+2=2 GE News 1+1+2=1

Ensemble Acting: The Universal Language

1+1+1=1

Improvisation: Ortiz’s group Mentzer’s group McGuire’s group

2 2 2

Group Mime: Seeing Through My Hands Opportunity Locks

1+1+2=1 1+1+2=1

Short Film: Melody 2

North High drama participants at Valley High School for state contest on February 7th.

In the 9 groups that went 4 groups received an overall 1 rating, 2 groups received an overall 2 rating and 3 groups received a superior rating of straight 1’s.

Group Mime: Seeing Through My Hands Opportunity Locks Reader’s Theater: The Rabbit Who Wanted- To Be A Man

1 1

Reader’s Theater: The Rabbit Who Wanted- To Be A Man

Explanation of ratings: I (1)- Excellent II (2)- Fair III (3)- Poor IV (4)- Disqualified

All-State Qualifiers for All-State: Hebelin Sanchez & Michael Xayavong The Universal Language: A piece about a guy who makes up a fake language to con people and a girl who is willing to learn this language. On February 21st @ ISU

Schools have the chance to win a banner, Valley High School won three banners from last year’s contest. All IHSSA contest photos courtesy of North High Drama Department.

1+1+2=1

OPINIONS

RISING SUCCESS OF “AMERICAN SNIPER” - REAGAN CLAY Concerns for a fair trial have been rising since the Oscar nominated movie, ‘American Sniper’ has been selling out at theaters across the country; bringing in more than 110 billion dollars in revenue. The story of Chris Kyle, played by Bradley Cooper, is portrayed onto the screen. Kyle is a Navy Seal sharpshooter who had up to 160 confirmed kills over the duration of his four tours. Nicknamed “Legend” by his fellow soldiers. There’s no doubt that Kyle is the most lethal sniper in U.S. military history. According to Fox News, the trial is set to start February 11; two years after Eddie Ray Routh allegedly killed Kyle. He states that he was helping him with his Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), so Routh will plead “not guilty” by reason of insanity. “The film will be an issue. I think any

case with significant publicity has an issue with picking a jury. I’ve had them in the past, and anything that has significant national attention makes it hard to pick a jury,” J. Warren St. John, attorney for Routh, told People Magazine. Former Marine, Routh, and his attorney, St. John believes it will be unfair and close to impossible to find an impartial jury since the movie has gained so much national attention. State of Texas prosecutors are not looking at the death penalty for Routh. In my eyes, Chris Kyle saved many lives and is a hero who didn’t deserve to be killed. He was only trying to help veterans who are going through what he once went through. But I also believe that these soldiers who struggle with disorders, such as PTSD, need more help once they come back home. They have seen and done far too much to just come back home and try to live a regular life.

Programs need to be set up that closely watch soldiers once they arrive back to the states. They have risked their lives to help keep our country safe; they deserve more help than what they are receiving. I also think it is hard for someone to rule and judge on something they have not experienced. The public does not see problems from across seas except for what media covers. Soldiers experience things no one would ever want to see. Moviegoers are only seeing one side of the story. Of course, it is an important view but it is close-ended. ‘American Sniper’ does not mention Eddie Ray Routh, therefore the movie should be off the records when it comes to giving Routh a fair trial. There’s no hesitation when saying this was a tragic event but there also could have been steps taken to help these events from happening.

A Dream is a Dream, Nothing Less - Kelsey Ambrose

When we were five we were asked what we wanted to be when we grew up, some of us had aspirations of being a chef, a doctor, a teacher, a dancer, some even said a princess. Back then, everyone thought it was adorable. Ten years later, things that were adorable, aren’t so adorable anymore. Dreams turn into reality and older authorities tend to take these aspirations more serious. The once cute “I want to be princess”

aspirations is no longer a logical answer to give someone and when you’re asked what you plan to do after high school; you’re expected to give a more mature answer. You’ll be walking down the aisle, with your name being called, in a green cap and gown receiving a diploma for all the accomplishments you worked for your 13 years of school. Then you’ll walk out the high school doors that you have walked through bright and early every morning for the past four years, and the whole world is on your shoulders. I don’t know about you, but all of that scares me to no end. When I picture myself out of high school, I see myself running away to college, meeting the love of my life, being successful. It sounds like a piece of cake. And after four years of high school, I snap out of that dream and realize it won’t ever be that easy. What if my dream college doesn’t accept me? What if I can’t afford to go? What if I end up missing home too much? What if it is just too much? What if I don’t make anyone happy? Everyone keeps telling me how amazing I’ll do after high school and

that I’ve got “potential”. But what does that mean? I get decent grades, I seem to think I’m pretty nice, I work for what I want. All that, but how does that guarantee me to do amazing things after all my schooling? You can tell just by my personality and my grades? If that was the case, a lot of people should’ve done a lot better than they did. I get that everyone graduates, moves on and grows up, but is it just me or does that dream to succeed mean way more now than it has before? I’ll be the first to admit that my dreams and expectations are set way too high for my own good. I’ll probably never be able to move to New York and write for the New York Times like I’ve wanted to. There’s an extremely small chance that will ever happen. If anything, I’ll stay close to Des Moines and be the one to show up to all the high school reunions talking about how decent my life turned out to be. Then I’ll be showing off pictures of how nice my cats and kids look. As long as I’m happy, why does it matter? There’s too much pressure to make people happy, if it’s what you want to do then do it. Why

focus on what other people want you to do? If you want to go pursue your dream and work at Petco your whole life, then you go do that. Your dreams don’t need to depend on someone else and what they think. It’s called YOUR DREAM for a reason. If you have a dream, go chase your dream, no one is stopping you. A dream is a dream, it’s nothing less. Who cares if you don’t go to Iowa State, Harvard, or some huge college? You can get a degree at DMACC just as well as you can one of those schools. My point is that not everyone is going to have a fairy tale ending. No one will end up going into or even ending their adult life how they want to. If you do let me know, I want to see. There’s no need to prove anything to anyone, take your time. Decide what you want to do, and do the best you can. That’s all you can do. Whatever you decide, just make sure you’re happy. As long as you’re happy with what you do, you’ll do just fine.

NOT JUST A WORD - TAJ MILTON

“But my Black friend said it was okay.” “It’s not bad if you say it with an “a” and not “er.” “How is that racist?” “It’s just a word.” Let’s make this very clear; it is not just a word. It’s a racial slur. Despite listening to the voices of oppressed and marginalized people, in relationship to understanding what your privilege is, white people seem to have a hard time with grasping the fact that their use of the N-word, no matter the situation, is never okay. That’s probably because white people don’t like being told anything is off limits to them. See any history book for reference. Put your privileges aside and listen to this. Do you recall the 600+ years where black people were captured, traded, and sold as chattel by white people? What was that called again? Oh yes, I think it was slavery. Do you also recall that the whole system was violently enforced. How black slaves who didn’t act the way white people wanted them to were either beaten or murdered? Also, try to remember when slavery ended,

the Jim Crow sytem used the same slavery tactics of fear, violence and murder was created to specifically to keep black people in “their place.” In the middle of that mess, a word was created by white people as a pejorative for black people. It was used just about every time a black person was spat on, insulted, chained, whipped, beaten, raped or any other time a black person was mistreated by white people. So, in that case, it really doesn’t matter how unfair you think it is or how bad you want to say it. Even when you want to say those Kanye West lyrics It is a racial slur and you can’t say it becayse there’s no way you can say it and not be racist. Yes that’s right! Read the line above this one over and over, because I can’t tell you how many times I’ve heard, “how is it racist?” come out the mouths of people when they’re called out for it. It doesn’t matter how many black friends you have, how much you love Beyoncé or how much rap music you listen to. It doesn’t matter if you are currently or have been in a romantic relationship with a black person. If you say the N-word, You are being racist. If a Black person or any person of color for that matter tells you that you did or said something offensive to their culture. It isn’t a hard concept to grasp. When someone is telling you that you are being racist by your actions, it isn’t time to flex your debate skills and argue. You need to listen. Recognize your privilege and open your eyes to the fact that your actions have consequences. And saying it’s okay because you said it with an “a” and not an “er” doesn’t make it acceptable or less offensive, it’s the same word, with the same meaning, just pronounced differently. So, before you go, “but Black people can say it, why can’t I?” listen to this, First; stay in your racial lane. It isn’t your

job to police what Black people can and cannot say. Nor is it your place. Second; there are Black people who go their whole lives without saying it, so why do you feel the need to say it? What’s the point? How does it make you a better person? What do you get out of it? Is it specifically to hurt Black people because that’s what you’re doing. But some would rather argue for hours on why they should be able to say it rather than to take five seconds and have a heart and realize that you are hurting a race of people when it comes out of your mouth. Even if every black person said it, how does that concern you? It doesn’t. Other people of color, that goes for you also. You’re not excluded from not saying just because you’re not white. Saying, “oh it’s cool because I’m [insert your ethnicity here]” doesn’t make anything less offensive or racially insensitive. “Slurs are not oppressive because they are offensive, they are oppressive because slurs by nature of them being slurs, draw upon certain power dynamics to remind their target of his/her/their vulnerability in a certain relation to power and as an extension of that, to threaten violence and exploitation of that vulnerability.” –Cisyphus “But I have black friends and I love black people!” Surrounding yourself with black people or culture does not, in any way, grant you a magical “black Pass” where you can say the N-word and other cultural/racial insensitive things. So when you get called out for it, don’t use your black friends or your love for Beyoncé as a scapegoat. If you love black people so much, how about you not use a slur that was literally

created to dehumanize them and show them some respect. I know this story might make some of you uncomfortable but that’s exactly why I wrote it. I get uncomfortable when I’m trying to concentrate in class, but can’t, due to constantly hearing racial slurs come out of the mouths of people. Who should have the common sense not to say them. And dealing with the everyday racism and microaggressions I have to face just for existing. So, you not being comfortable with reading this is no comparison. Please read this and take this to heart and change your racially insensitive ways. Or at least don’t act so hurt and surprise when a black person has to put you in your place because you’re so far out of your lane.

An artistic representation of what it feels like to hear this word in the middle of a classroom. Graphic created by Hatte Kelley, Taj Milton

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9 Feuding with fire

Opinions

Junioritis

Hannah McNichols “Senioritis: a supposed affliction of students in their final year of high school or college, characterized by a decline in motivation or performance.” Well thanks, Google, that’s basically me, except I’m a junior. Junior year is the year that colleges look at the most and deem the most important. I’m perfectly aware of that and yet I can’t seem to take things seriously or care about my grades. I’m only worried about passing. Even worse is that round one of finals are over and I’m still not taking things serious. I’m more worried about not being stressed to the max and having fun as a teenager than what my parents think I should be worried about. You’re only 17 once, right? I find myself struggling to finish this year but not wanting to graduate early because I want to go to college. Therefore, AP classes are right for me to save money, so I’m going to stress and take two AP tests on one day so I can have a chance at college credit. Everything is just so stressful. I want to be able to hang out with friends and

not have to say “no” because I have to study for a class. (A class I don’t care about but am taking to raise my GPA.) But on the other hand, I want to go to college. So how do I turn my high school transcript around to make the perfect college application? Do I have to shove hours and hours of community service in and hours on scholarship applications so I’m not in debt to my chin the rest of my life? Senioritis started sophomore year for me. The urge to have straight A’s went out the window the first day of AP US History. I got the mindset that it was too hard and gave up. I haven’t been able to recover from that and I’m not quite sure when or if I ever will. After twelve years of school, I am tired of the Monday through Friday 7:40 to 2:35, the daily routine that I’m scared of repeating when I am older. Every day since the first day of high school, it’s been school, work, homework, sleep, and repeat. I want to be able to set my own schedule and do what I want and to do that after high school I’m going to have to endure four more years of school for a degree whether I like it or not. In a little over 100 school days, I’ll be a senior. And let me tell you, I am nowhere near ready for it. I’m excited for the memories to be made senior year, but that’s it. After this summer I’ll have 180 school days to figure my life out. Thirteen years of school finished and all I’ll get is a folder with a piece of paper in it. If only that paper could be a blue print of the rest of my life. A step-by-step guide to what college I go to and where I live, what jobs I apply for, and how to be successful in all the things that high school didn’t teach me. For now, I’ll just succumb to my self-diagnosed case of senioritis and hope my procrastination subsides.

Madison Houska Gooooood morninnnng, how about we start off our day with a little household tension. Eh? Sound like a plan? I think not. Every relationship has its arguments. Sometimes over small thing and other times it can be over things that are rather big. When this happens with parents, it’s usually from a long day at work or maybe they don’t feel their best, or it could be a combination of multiple things that have added up throughout the past couple days. At this point things can turn heated pretty quick. The exchange of dirty looks and snappy comments is just the start, from there the conversation is an unpredictable rollercoaster, it could go well or turn bad in a heartbeat. Life is filled with options. Every day people have thousands upon thousands of options. But they take none of that into consideration as they let their blood boil over, like a train hissing against the tracks at an unbelievably fast speed. It seems that the tension from arguing parents feels like two times as much tension on the average teenager. The actual complexity of it all is really too much for us

to handle. In all honesty, it makes it hard for us to focus. It’s like were drowning in a sea of overbearing anger. Even coming home after school some days just happens to have made its way to the top of our “the last thing I want to do” list. But don’t even get me started on that list. Every hurtful word they say has an impact on everyone else in the household. Every raise of their voice doesn’t just go to the person they’re directing it towards. Every son and daughter will feel the weight of the on-edge, uneasiness in the house, which seeps through even the thickest blankets as we sleep at night. This results in tossing and turning, and eventually yawning in class because of it. It all leads to the GPA that we work so hard to achieve, slipping little by little. Fighting is burdensome. The last thing we want to do is sit at school for some eight odd hours and think about how we can avoid the tension. Being a hermit our room is the easiest escape. Netflix is the best go-to excuse, and the most entertaining. Lastly, it’s upsetting. When there is an upset between parents or family members, it puts us in an awkward situation. Like every time they walk past each other we hold our breath and hope they just keep to themselves. My point is, you can’t carelessly let your stress poison those around you that don’t need or deserve it. Being a teenager is hard enough. With school, life, and general drama, to work and sports. The last thing we really need is another bump in the road in addition to what we already have going on. Without that extra pressure, we teens find it much easier to focus on the important things in life.

It’s us against the world

Reagan Clay Des Moines Public Schools has five schools in the Des Moines area. Those schools include Roosevelt, Lincoln, Hoover, East, and North high school. Of those five high schools, North is the second smallest school, having over 1,100 students. One cannot question the diversity while walking through the halls of North High. Many students at North know what other people think of their school. I will never forget going to a restaurant in West Des Moines and talking to our waitress about what high school I went to. The minute I said I went to North, my waitress gave me a pity look and said, “how do you survive? You

aren’t afraid to go to school?” It was such a hypocritical thing to say. What if I would of said, “wow, you go to Southeast Polk? Aren’t there like two different kinds of people who attend your high school? Camo lovers and NorthFace/Ugg boot wearing white girls?” I can’t speak for other students but I wasn’t raised to judge people or something as a whole. Everyone has his or her own story and personal experiences. I asked students who attend high schools other than North what their first impression of North High School was. All said something about the basketball team. Which is what most people only think about when hearing about the polar bears. Not many know about the academic side to North. One student who attends East High said, “I feel like since North is a lot smaller than East, you’re able to get closer to your teachers and peers. But I also believe East has more options compared to North. We are a bigger school and have a wider variety of electives.” According to the Des Moines Public School’s website, East does not offer more electives than North. In fact, East does not offer any more core classes than North. The only classes East has that North does not, are Advanced Placement classes that are offered at Central Academy so North students can sign up for them. This does not just go towards East. Almost all schools in the district offer the same classes and if they do not, they are offered at Central. North High students have increased their proficiency and graduation rate over the last couple

of years. North was ranked 28th on the Top 50 Schools on the Iowa AP Index. The College Board has recently named North one of their “Spotlight Schools” because of the rise of AP classes offered. Also, it was named by the U.S. Department of Education as a “School of Focus” for the use of School Improvement Grant Funds. Since North is the second smallest school in the district, classroom sizes are smaller than one might see at another school such as Roosevelt or Lincoln. Students are able to have a relationship with not only their peers but also with their teachers and administration. Having a strong bond with your peers at your school enhances the whole “high school experience”. What would it be like to see new faces every time you walk in the hallway? I could not imagine going to a school and not know the majority of the people. Another thing many of the students that don’t attend North said is how we lack talent for our athletics besides the basketball program. What these students don’t understand is that we also lack the numbers for these sports. How do you expect a full varsity team ready to compete against schools like Ankeny or Johnston when you only have ten people go out for a sport? This is because students open enroll into the school they want to attend. Open enrollment rates through the district have gone up. Many students who should be attending North High open enroll into bigger, “better” schools. It could be because their parents attended another high school and they want their child to

attend that same school or because their home school’s athletics aren’t where they should be. Either way, offering open enrollment through the district can create an unfair situation through the high schools. The main goal of a high school is to educate their students and better prepare them for their next step in life. No matter where you go, I believe we are all getting that education and help towards life after high school.

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Sports

As The ball rolls...

By: Austin Pitts Walking through the hallways at North High School you may be able to hear a ton of conversations going on. Take a walk with me for a moment and picture this. It’s January, a big month for athletics. A big month for every sport as they fight and compete their way for postseason bids. Everybody is speculating how certain sports are going to do, trying to predict how far our school will go. Let’s start at the front doors, (say it’s lunchtime) as we walk past the gym the sounds of bouncing basketballs fill our ears. As we keep walking we look to the left and see a bunch of students sitting at a lunch table, talking about who the basketball team is playing tonight. The basketball team is on the road that night and as we keep walking towards the library we see a group of three or four kids walking together, all dressed up, looking overdressed and almost out of place during this time of the day. These would be a group of wrestlers, talking amongst themselves about how the meet will go tonight. Since the basketball team is away that means the wrestlers get the gym to theirselves tonight. As we make our way to class, we again

hear about basketball the whole way. Once we sit down at our desk we see a cheerleader in the desk ahead of us, in her uniform ready to go. Now we have made it all the way to class, but have you heard anything about the bowling meet tonight? Often times the bowling team is shadowed by the bigger sports. As such the bowlers may not have the school wide recognition that other sports teams do, such as the basketball team. But the bowling team doesn’t mind not getting the amount of attention that the big sports get. “Bowling is not a spectator sport, I do not think extra attention is needed,” Coach Lucht replied. There won’t ever be a pep rally for just the bowlers but that’s okay. Time and effort is still put into bowling as if it was any other sport. You aren’t ever just naturally great at something. Talent can only take you so far, in order to be great you have to spend hours and hours beating on your craft. Bowlers like senior Paige Hennick, know the challenge of perfecting her mindset. “I set a certain goal for myself to achieve and when I achieve that goal by pushing myself harder each time to become greater. I enjoy the satisfaction of knowing that I am improving.” Hennick answered.

paige hennick: On to state

Lationna robinson By : Somerle Rhiner Photo Cred: Colt Wyatt and Nicole Deerfield. Paige Hennick makes it to state scoring 202 during her first game and 239 during the second game.

Girl’s JV and Varsity guard relieves her stress on the court

Basketball report

Lationna Robinson is a freshman guard basketball player who plays JV and Varsity. Robinson speaks on her journey through basketball and how it relieves stress for her. Robinson talks about her personal life and how when things gets tough that she goes to basketball to forget all of her problems. Q: How long have you being playing basketball? A: “Since I was 7-8 years old” Q: Who motivates you the most and how? A: “My best friend Emaginee, cause there are times when I want to give up and I cant cause she wont let me” Q: Do you consider yourself the best player on the team? Why or why not? A: “No I don’t, because I don’t have the ball handling skills or nothing like that down” Q: Do you wish to continue on playing basketball in collage, why? A: “Yes, because basketball is my stress reliever and I love that game” Q: What are the pros and cons of basketball? A: “Pros of basketball is that you met new people. Cons of basketball is the down age that you get if you lose” Q: If you could play in any NBA team which team would you play for and why? A: “OKC, because I have always wanted to play for them” Q: Have you been in any basketball programs?

By: Kyle Siberz

If so list and how did they help you? A: “AAU, Competitive Ball, Middle school basketball. They have helped me because they all pushed me to do something that I never thought that I could do” Q: Do you have a quote or phrase you go by? A: “You can have the worst day in the world, but once you get in the gym all your worries go away” Q: Do you have time for your personal life since you play basketball? A: “Yes and no, because I have practice on the weekends and on weekdays so by the time I get home is gone and yes because I have Sundays off” Q: What are your struggles? A: “Dribbling with my left hand and controlling my anger or emotions on the court”

11-6 is where the Polar Bears stand through 17 games this season. Second place in the CIML metro standings, and not to mention a huge part of the team Raekwon Lowery coming of his biggest performance of the year. The Polar Bears have had there ups and downs during the season. Scoring as much as 97 points in game against Des Moines East and also 37 in a low of the season against Indianola but as it looks the Polar Bears are coming together at the best time of the year. With six seniors North is a very experienced team some people would say. With Teyonte Jenkins and Terrance Bush leaving last year some seniors did not see as much time on the varsity court than you would think. With two very tough games coming up against West Des Moines Valley and Des Moines Hoover, North will find out if it is up for the task. Seniors Neico Greene and London Carter will need to step up huge for the Polar Bears if they will make a deep run into the season. Scoring has seemed to also come together

at the best time of the year. With senior Wilson Worge leading the way most of the season going for as much as 35 points at times he will be pivotal for the Polar Bears coming down the stretch. The flashy quick point guard has shown his capability to lead this team at many points this season. Worge has stepped into his role this year as a captain and has done nothing but great things for the team since. His hard work ethic carries over right into practice after school and goes 110%. With a senior heavy team many players are ready to come off the bench and contribute. North’s flashy explosive offense has shown that it is beginning to come together, night in and night out for the Bears, but its defense will be huge in making a run. Ben Hayes has done a great job this whole year on getting the biggest guy on the court most of the time and defending him the majority of the game. With another athletic forward Lowery at 6”4 will need to make his presence felt. If the defense comes together and scoring stays the same look for North to make a run after the regular season.

Sports

Dimmed spotlight

Josh Rattray Pinning kid from Lincoln last season. -Photo Cred: Cameron Fisher By: Tanna Jones One of the biggest events will be held at Wells Fargo on February 19-21. No, it’s not a concert, nor a basketball game. It’s the IHSAA state-wrestling tournament. People from all over Iowa come to watch class A, class B and class C. these classes divide small to large schools into three different divisions to compete face to face. Iowa has always been known for wrestling because of the talent and dedication coming from all of the participants. The state tournament is one of the hardest tournaments to get into along with one of the hardest tournaments to participate in. In order to qualify for state you have to wrestle through a conference tournament that will choose your district bracket. Then wrestle in the district tournament and either placing first or second. Last year North-Hoover had one state qualifier, now junior Damonte Clark. He competed

in weight class 160Lbs and placed second at districts taking on the harder bracket at Wells Fargo. “Walking into Wells Fargo was the most nerve racking thing I’ve ever experienced,” says Clark. On the first day of the state tournament Clark went through the first two rounds, getting beat out and losing both matches. It’s a new season for this young team, having lost three seniors last year. The number of students going out for this sport always ends up being a problem. Only having less than a full lineup (which is 14) the amount of dedication is higher than ever. But once it hits varsity time the light switch is turned off and a single bright light is hanging over the mat, which dimly lights the rest of the gym. At that very moment nothing else is more important than those six minutes on that very mat separating the two competing teams. Josh Rattray has wrestled ever since he

could walk. “If I win, I win. If I lose I still win,” says Rattray. Meaning if he looses he still wins because he will be able to go back and fix any mistakes while becoming a better competitor. Rattray competes at weight class 120Lb and lead the team with a record of 20-2. Unfortunately an injury that was made during practice has cost him the rest of the season. Chase Williams is also a junior and a team captain. He wrestles in weight class 132Lbs. With this year’s record of 15-8, his season was also cut short due to a leg injury. Shadrack Zarwie has only wrestled for two seasons but has made an instant connection. He has starred varsity both years for weight class 113lb. Last year Zarwie has also placed third at districts. “Strength does not come from winning. Your struggles develop your strengths. When you go through hardships and decide not to surrender, that is strength,” Andrew Schwarzenegger.

Shadrack has always gone by that quote ever since he’s first started. He might not have been wrestling his whole life but everyone starts their journey somewhere. This year he holds a record of 26-9 because he has been working hard both on and off season to come back for districts mentally and physically better then last year. He believes this is his time after he admitted he wasn’t ready to continue on last season. The only thing that is holding him back from this state tournament is time itself. Conditioning and staying healthy is key, keeping your body fat percentage low. These boys spend hours at a time cautiously going through the motions because to them wrestling isn’t just another sport; it is a way of life. This sport wears down your body to nothing. Losing weight and maintaining the weight you’re given is the most challenging thing of all. Every choice you make could have an effect on how you do in your next match.

ad edwards: ON TO STATE

Ad Edwards advances to state during the district tournament saturday Feb, 14th. Taking second place in the heavy weight bracket.

Photo Cred: Shannon Dierks Coach Briant and assistant coach cheering Edwards on during his final match Vs. Indianolas heavy weight. Second picture: Ad Edwards netural with urbandale 285 pounder, wrestling off for first place.

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