concerts
Steven Curtis Chapman KeyArena Oct. 28 $23-$50.50
Seattle Comedy Festival Various Seattle Clubs Oc. 21-24 $27-$47
Coheed and Cambria The Premier Oct. 30 $17
De La Soul The Showbox Nov. 15 $18
Death Cab for Cutie Paramount Theatre Nov. 9 $20
Green Day with New Found Glory Everett Events Center Nov. 16 $29
Toby Keith Tacoma Dome Nov. 13 $20
theatre
theatre
concerts
AN OPEN FORUM FOR STUDENT EXPRESSION
Seattle Mens Chorus McCaw Hall Nov. 1 $15-$55
Smucker’s Stars On Ice KeyArena Nov. 8 $25-$95
Little Shop of Horrors Paramount Theatre Nov. 5 $25-$59
David Copperfield Paramount Theatre Nov. 13-14 $14.25-$53.25
REM McCaw Hall Nov. 19 $39.50-$75
Disney’s Lion King National Tour Paramount Theatre Nov. 31 $22.50-$125
Vanessa Carlton Crocodile Cafe November 20 $15
on the south sound
The Beat Nightmare at the Center KUBE 93 Haunted House Seattle Center Southcenter Mall Daily Fridays-Saturdays and the 31 in October www.varietyhauntedhouse.com 206-494-2868 $10-$15 $10
seasonal
seasonal
Giving you the low down
WIld Waves/Enchanted Village Fright Fest Federal Way Weekends in October 253-661-8001 $29.99 House of Terror Auburn Supermall Weekends in October www.supermall.com $10
Haunted Woods Buckley Weekends in October 253-862-2848 $10
OTE EMERALD RIDGE HIGH SCHOOL
12405 184TH ST E SOUTH HILL, WA 98374
VOLUME FIVE ISSUE ONE OCTOBER 2004
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10/20/2004 6:10:43 PM
INSIDE
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JagWire
10.22.04
Emily – The singer has a really good voice and I like how the sound varies – not all the songs sound the same. I really like their style; both their lyrics and music are really good.
Emily
11
Caetano Yellowcard Ocean Ave.
Kajca
Grant – I’m really sick of hearing Ocean Ave., so I was kind of hating them before I heard their other stuff. I was suprised how much I do like some of their other songs.
Nick – I don’t think they sound very unique. I can’t tell a difference between them and any of the other punk rock bands that are popular.
Tim McGraw
Brittany – I like Tim. He’s cool. I’ve always been a fan of country, and Tim McGraw has always been one of my favorites.
Grant – I actually don’t like most of the songs on this CD, but the few that I do like make it worth the money.
Nick – I decided to give country a chance and it was a mistake. I don’t like this music and all of the songs sound the same. I will never be a fan.
Elections 12
Emily – I think you like country or you don’t. Tim McGraw is definitely my favorite.
Roundtable Discussion Students weigh in with their views on key election issues
s l a s u D d i v i our C d n I F Four
Grant – I love this CD. I’m a huge Blink fan. You can say what you want about them “selling out,” but you should focus more on the music itself. This is Blink’s best CD.
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Brittany – I like them. They have a cool punk rock feel, which is good. I like how their singer sounds original.
Greatest Hits
Nick
The November presidential elections are just around the corner. To address this, JagWire takes a comprehensive look at the issues and the people surrounding what could be one of the most controversial elections in American history.
23
A&E
08 | Daffodil Festival
The student population has only been larger once than this year, while staff and building sizes stay relatively the same. JagWire studies the problems created by this discrepancy.
Meet the senior ladies who ran for Daffodil Princess. Find out how the Daffodil competition came into existence and how it has changed since its inception in 1926 as a dinner party.
Nick – This is a classic CD. Their music is unique with their use of humor and relatable issues. Blink will always be one of my favorites.
Grant Blink-182 ink-182 Woodruff Bli
Emily – How can you not laugh when you hear them? Their music rocks and they’re really funny.
Enema off th the St State t
10 | Teacher Feature
17 | Girls Volleyball
Social Studies teacher Matt White is a school legend. His escapades inspire troublemakers and rule-followers alike. A look at the lesser-known side of White.
The girls volleyball team has had a successful season, going 11-2 in season play. The Jags look to the postseason, hoping to finish on a positive note.
The Beautiful Letdown
Gentile Switchfoot Brittany Photo by Mikel Armstrong
04 | Overcrowded Classes
Brittany – Blink-182 isn’t my type of music. I think it is sssooo stupid! They are lame and you barely understand what the heck they are saying!
Nick – I like this. You can rock out to it or just sit back and enjoy.
Brittany – I like it. It has a rock sound and a cool type of different feel. Plus, the guys in the band are cute!
Emily – I love Switchfoot. It’s not very complex, but the music is catchy and they have a good sound.
Grant – I like their positive Christian message, but only when I’m in the right mood. It can get old pretty fast.
10/20/2004 6:03:08 PM
A&E
JagWire
JagWire
Don’t catch this ‘Taxi’ “ New flick starring Fallon and Latifah offers nothing new to viewers in the cop buddy comedy genre BY
MATT CLICK
REPORTER
“Taxi” is the comedic tale of a fearless New York taxi driver and a clumsy NYPD detective who are forced to team up in order to solve a series of mysterious bank robberies in Queens. Jimmy Fallon plays Detective Andy Washburn, a desperate cop trying to prove himself after several failed cases. Queen Latifah, an Academy Award nominee for her role in “Chicago,” plays Belle Williams, the craziest, most reckless cab driver in New York. When Washburn’s license is suspended, he must count on Belle to get him where he needs to go. The film is a remake of a 1998 French
Here’s a look at a few movies you caught or still need to see. from the big dogs to the little guy. BY
MATT CLICK
REPORTER
For many high school students, summer is the season for movies. Some of the year’s biggest films are released during the warm months, and this past summer was no exception. In fact, according to Box Office Guru, this summer yielded many top grossing films. “Spiderman 2,” “Shrek 2,” “Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban,” and “The Day After Tomorrow” all made the list of top films this summer movie season. “Shrek 2” earned over $436 million, ranking it among such movies as “Titanic” and “Star Wars” as one of the highest grossing films in movie history. Also making the top grossing list were “The Bourne Supremacy,” “I, Robot,” “Troy,” and “Van Helsing.” Michael Moore’s political satire “Fahrenheit 9/11” proved that controversy sells by raking in more than $119 million in theater sales. As for disappointments, there was no shortage. “Catwoman” was pelted with aw-
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REVIEW
film by the same name, which became the highest grossing movie in French film history. The film is produced by Luc Besson, who directed the original, and directed by Tim Story (“Barbershop”). “Taxi” goes a little something like this: Bad guys show up, car chase, bad guys escape, comedic scene, bad guys appear again, car chase, bad guys escape, comedic scene, bad guys rob another bank, car chase, bad guys escape, so on and so forth. Are you starting to see a pattern here? “Taxi” is predictable from the getgo, and all will recognize the “unlikely police duo” formula. Granted, “Taxi” has its laughs. Fallon, whose antics were made famous on TV’s “Saturday Night Live,” is hilarious and perfectly cast in his role of the clumsy
ful early reviews and received a mediocre opening weekend. The medieval epic “King Arthur” made little more than a third of its production cost. Also among the flops were “The Thunderbirds” and, not surprisingly, “Superbabies: Baby Geniuses 2.” Of course, all of those titles probably ring a bell. But, what about the best films you didn’t see? Several flicks took moviegoers by surprise this summer. “Napoleon Dynamite” is a prime example. The film was a Sundance Film Festival favorite among critics, gaining praise as “the little guy” of summer flicks. An odd-yet-hilarious tale of a nerdy high school student, “Napoleon Dynamite” was produced for a mere $400,000 and grossed over $19 million during its four month reign of the obscure movie throne. The film has gained a cult following, including a 50,000-member fan club. The shark tale “Open Water,” which was produced for relative pocket-change ($130,000) and shot with a digital camcorder, earned $14.5 million over the course of its four-week release. It also gained all-around critical praise; Roger Ebert of the Chicago Sun-Times called it “the best shark-attack movie since Jaws.” Zach Braff, the star of TV’s “Scrubs,” tried his hand at directing this summer
Principal Brian Lowney returns after three years at Rogers and feels like this is where he belongs
IT’S NOT ORIGINAL OR UNIQUE IN ANY WAY; IT’S THE SAME BUDDY COP COMEDY WE’VE SEEN A MILLION TIMES BEFORE IN MOVIES LIKE ‘TURNER AND HOOTCH.’
”
police officer. However, after an hour or so, the same jokes keep popping up. In fact, it seemed as though the film was about half an hour too long and had begun to recycle itself. And as we all know too well, a lame joke gets less funny every time it’s told. Queen Latifah doesn’t live up to her Oscar-nominated expectations. Her character has some funny bits, but for the most part, she’s Fallon’s straight man. Latifah is an up and coming actress, but she’s not going to get anywhere with
movies like “Taxi.” The car chases are well choreographed, with good stunt-work all around. But, after about the third car chase, I was getting a little bored. Not much else can be said about “Taxi.” It’s not original or unique in any way; it’s the same buddy cop comedy we’ve seen a million times before in movies like “Turner and Hootch” and “Starsky and Hutch.” But, the laughs seem to keep this struggling ship afloat, and I’d say it’s worth a rent when it comes out on video.
with the strange romance of “Garden State,” which tells the story of a man lost in life who returns home for the first time in years. The film’s limited release has brought in $8 million, more than three times its meager production cost.
This summer was not lacking in top grossing films, nor was it short on flops and obscure artsy films that few bothered to see. But this summer also proved to many that even the little guy can achieve great things, especially if they have the skills.
BY
KASSIE GREEN
REPORTER
When former principal Casey Cox left last year, the school needed a new principal. This year, Brian Lowney has stepped up to the plate and is doing his best. Lowney was here for the opening of this school more than four years ago. “It felt special to open with the school,” he said. “My grandfather was there for the opening of Rogers and I remember thinking this school wasn’t very ready for the first year, but my grandfather told me at Rogers they had to teach a class out of a bus. I figured we were better off than some after hearing that.” Lowney believes that he is home. “I truly think I have the best job in the world,” he said. “This school just fits me best. When I come here I feel like I am home.” Lowney was picked out of many applicants from both in and out of state by a committee of students and staff. Asking an arranged set of questions, talking informally with each candidate, and taking tour of the building. “We really just wanted to get a feel for the candidate and his qualifications,” committee member Amanda Pisetzner, a junior, said. Pisetzner believes the committee chose the right person.
Fine Photography
McCutcheon’s Studio
BY
ROBIN STOYLES
REPORTER
Just ask Laura!
Located next to the Liberty Theatre
03
“I truly think we picked the right person for the job and I am extremely happy with the decision,” Pisetzner said. “I do know he is a huge fan of student voice and is more than willing to listen to student opinions and take them into consideration. He’s a great guy.” Lowney has set priorities that he has deemed appropriate for a principal of a high school. At the top of this list is his
family. “My family will always be my first priority,” he said. “Every principal that I have assisted has said that it is important to put family first. While some of them haven’t followed their own principles, I strongly believe that is the right thing to do.” Lowney has a wife, Christel. They have two children, a 1-year-old daughter, Cal-
lie, and a 4-year-old son, Colin. His wife is a third grade teacher at Woodland Elementary. Lowney would really like to get to know a lot of students at this school. “It is very rare to see me in my office. I am always out looking around talking,” he said. “I even have a sophomore advisory.”
Meet Mr. Lowney Full name: Brian Michael Lowney Parent’s names: Susan and John Lowney Kid’s names: Colin & Callie Wife’s name: Christel Born: Lakewood, Wash. Birthday: 3/31/71 Favorite T.V. Show: “Seinfeld” Favorite color: Green Favorite animal: Sharks Dog: Tanner Height: 6’0” Favorite book: “Love in the Time of Cholera” Person he most admires: Wife, Christel Favorite Food: Thai Favorite super hero: Batman Beyond (Colin’s Halloween costume this year) Other country he would like to live in: China and/or Japan Principal Lowney takes a few minutes of his time to band together with students for the camera.
New schedule causes anger for some students The replacement of Jag Time with ER at ER, has caused strong negative feelings amongst students.
120 West Main Ave. Puyallup, Washington 98371 253-845-2101
NEWS
New principal feels at home
Photo by Mikel Armstrong
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With the new schedule this year came many students that were displeased with the changes. “I don’t really like it because I don’t like not having Jag on all the days,” junior Maranda Sprague said. It seems that almost every student doesn’t like the reduction of Jag Time. “That kind of sucks,” senior Ashley Walton said, “because I always have homework and if I need help on a test or
miss something then I can’t get help.” Junior T.J. Libra also thinks it creates a lack of time for homework. “I like my independent work time,” Libra said. “I like to sit down and do lots of homework in school and two Jag Times just isn’t allowing me to finish what I would like to finish in school.” Senior James Knight agreed, saying,”I wish I had more time to work on stuff than two times a week.” A few students are pleased with parts of this change. “I like the new schedule because I like the reading time,” senior Ashley Walton said. It seems about half of the students talked to like Everybody Reads (ER). “I like it because I like to read,” Libra
said. Some disagree and don’t care for this addition. “I really don’t like being forced to read,” Sprague said. “The people who want to read are going to read. It’s not like you have to read, you can just sit there and sleep.” junior Brett Pullen said. The majority of students also do not seem to care for the separation of lunches. “It’s pretty lame because it’s not mixing everyone together,” Libra said. “By mixing everyone together it makes it comfortable in different age groups.” Not only juniors dislike the separation at lunches. “I have some junior and senior friends
and would like to have time to talk to them,” sophomore Mike Maye said. Senior Ryan Joyner agreed, saying, “It’s kind of not as cool because senior year I’d like to know everyone in the school.” Many students also are unhappy about having all six classes on Wednesdays. “I don’t like Wednesdays at all,” Pullen said. “You get a lot of homework on Tuesday nights to get ready for Wednesday.” Joyner agrees with Pullen. ”Wednesdays suck,” Joyner said. “I hate all six classes because you got all six classes and the next day the homework is all due.” Overall, most students seem displeased. “It is crap, I hate it,” Knight said.
10/20/2004 6:15:56 PM
04
NEWS
JagWire
JagWire
Class sizes an issue
Water polo working hard in new league
Wheels on the bus start slowing down
Boys water polo struggles in its first year as an officially sanctioned sport.
School buses not always running late is affecting students and all the schools with runs previous to here. BY
BY KAITLYN REPORTER
BRITTANY GENTILE
REPORTER
Cindy Watters’ and Brandi Groce’s third period Honors American Studies class has to fight to find a desk or a seat because of overcrowding.
There is a large problem with classes being packed to unreasonable numbers BY
ELAINE RAYMOND
REPORTER
Large class sizes have become a major area of concern for students and teachers, as more students enrolled this year than were projected. This year’s projected amount was 1,350 students, but in reality, Emerald Ridge had 1,385 students at the end of the four-day count. Four-day counting is the way attendance is taken the first four days of school. This is how to determine the official enrollment. Every year professional companies are hired to create an estimate of the number of students expected to enroll the coming school year.
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being forced to teach subjects unusual to them. “The only one is a new Activities Coordinator,” Lowney said. Choir teacher Rob Dennis will be taking over as Activities Coordinator for this year. American Studies and Leadership teacher Sharyn Mehner vacated the position shortly before the beginning of the school year. This is not an unwelcome change for Dennis. He chose to take this position and had, in fact, wanted this job for a while. “I have always enjoyed working with students in things that they really enjoy, and my new position will give me even more opportunities to get involved,” Dennis said. “I’m excited about the energy and enthusiasm that everyone has for our school and I hope that I can help the students make ERHS a better place for everyone.” Although many changes have been made as an attempt to improve the situation, some still feel that there are problems. “I think it is hard for everyone to learn,” sophomore Kalie McGinnis said. She is one of 48 students in a crowded American Studies class. Although the class has since received the relief of teacher Brandi Groce, who is now team teaching the class with Cindy Watters, the class has remained large. “I think was can learn more when there is more personal attention,” McGinnis said about personal help.
The boys water polo team had a tough beginning, but kept on working to finish their season strong. “So far we’ve played a lot of dominant teams, but I’m confident we’re going to be able to turn it around,” coach Ed Meier said early in the season. Assistant coach Zach Bregal agrees. “We’re off to a rocky start, but we’re expecting to step it up a lot more,” Bregal said. At the halfway point in their season, the team had only won one game through a forfeit. Last year, the team made it to districts, but this year they are in a league for the first time. In the past, the team has gone through USA Water Polo, and was considered a club. This year, they are classified as an actual varsity sport with ASB funding. The league consists of seven different teams, but none of the teams from the King County area are involved. This will be a good thing for the team because some of the stronger teams like Mercer Island, Bellevue, and Mark Morris are not in their league. This year, the team’s main goal is to make it into districts. Both Meier and team captain Brandon Myking are confident that they will make it there. “I am hoping to make it, and I really think we can do it,” Myking said. Meier agreed, saying, “With the standings we are at right now, we won’t make it, but I think the team is beginning to see that they are capable of doing well, and I am confident they will be able to make it to the league tournament.” This is Meier’s second year coaching the water polo team. “As a second-year coach I have tried to make changes to my coaching ability to better it. This year, we’ve been doing
“
Photo by Robin Stoyles
Sophomore Jason Trapp sits deskless.
A number of different strategies have been employed by Principal Brian Lowney to alleviate the unusually large class sizes. In one attempt to reduce numbers in large classes, smaller elective classes have been cut. By getting rid of smaller classes, those teachers are available to teach other classes, allowing larger classes to be reduced in size. A choir class of 18 students was collapsed to create space in the significantly larger classes such as an American Studies with Honors class of 48 students. “It feels awful,” Lowney said of cutting the classes. However, Lowney feels that comfortably sized core classes, such as math, social studies and language arts, are more important than lightly populated elective courses. Because of the great amount of students attending, new teachers have been hired and classes have been shuffled. The school even bought out several teachers’ planning periods, paying them to teach during what would otherwise be their planning period. These teachers include Loni Thoreson, Mark Miller, Gary Hibbs, Jacquelyn Ferry, Tracie Shepard and David Rosdahl. James Crawford was hired to teach English part time here and part time at Rogers; in order to accommodate his hiring, teachers in the English department have traded entire classes. Math teachers also have had to switch several classes. Still, Lowney said no teachers are
Buses are supposed to drop off their students between 7:15 and 7:25 a.m., but lately some students are being dropped off closer to 7:40 a.m., causing some students to miss attendance and be late to class. The bus drivers cannot choose their own routes to take. The transportation chooses them. They cannot decide on what route they take themselves because in case something happens the transportation knows exactly where to find the bus. This causes a problem because of rush hour traffic on Meridian and how busy it is in the morning. The traffic around ERHS is another reason the buses are late. “All the junior high and high schools are 20 minutes late because of our traffic,” Principal Brian Lowney said. The turn lane to get into the school is so backed up it takes about ten more minutes to get into the school parking lot. Some people think that the buses should be allowed in the parking lot first. “They need to let the buses go first so that we could get in faster,” said Michelle Simons, a student who rides Bus Run 9. She feels, along with other students, that it is not fair to be late to class almost every day. Sometimes, odd circumstances make the buses late as well. During the second week of school, Bus Run 9 was on its way to drop off the Stahl Junior High kids. An eighth grade girl was riding her bike to school for the first time. She was on the sidewalk when she lost her balance and fell into the street. At that moment the bus came by and hit the front tire of the bike. “ I (was) relieved that she wasn’t hurt,” bus driver Charlotte Margo said. “I saw her ahead of time. She was so upset that she wanted to leave the scene.” Her parents, the principal, and the police came and spoke with the girl and Margo about what went on. “They always do when a bus is involved, always,” Margo said. “Especially when a bike’s involved.”
GOLDEN
Despite injuries, cross country is running towards a strong finish. BY
”
— Zach Bregal, assistant coach
it,” Armstrong said. Armstrong announced that he was quitting before the team’s game against Puyallup High School on Sept. 30. “I had been re-evaluating my role on the team for several weeks,” Armstrong said. “It was a tough decision, but I feel I made the best decision for me and the team.” Armstrong says he still plans to be there for his former teammates. “I wish the team the best of luck with the rest of the season. I’ll still be there to support them,” Armstrong said. Even with a challenging early season, the team maintains an optimistic attitude about the rest of this season but has its eyes on the future.
“We’re training for this year, but still working towards a good season next year at the same time,” said Meier.
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Cross country sets sights on state
a lot more swimming to get the boys more in shape so they are able to go for an entire game,” Meier said. If it was swimmers Meier wanted, then he got plenty of them this season. “When the guys on the water polo team went into the swim season, they recruited a lot of guys from swimming to join the water polo team,” Meier said. There is one drawback to having a lot of swimmers on the water polo team. “We have a lot of beginners and it’s tough to teach new swimmers the game,” Myking said. However, this combined with many new sophomores cause some difficulties. “We have a big sophomore and freshman class coming up, and a very young team,” Bregal said. Another event causing trouble for the water polo team is that senior cocaptain Mikel Armstrong quit the team halfway through the season. “I quit because I couldn’t put my whole heart into it and it felt unfair to people who would have played with more passion than I was putting into
WE’RE OFF TO A ROCKY START, BUT WE’RE EXPECTING TO STEP IT UP.
SPORTS
LAUREN OBREGON
REPORTER
Cross country runs into action this year heading in the right direction. “Nearly everyone on the team has improved,” assistant coach Gary Osborne said. The No. 1 male runner this year is senior Curt Lockard; the top female runner is junior Kaitlyn Golden. “Both Curt and Kaitlyn have a good shot at going to state,” Osborne said. To qualify for state, runners must first place in the top 40 at the league meet to qualify for the district meet, and then place in the top 40 again at the district meet. The league meet was Oct. 20 at Spanaway Lake Park, the district meet is Oct. 30 at Spanaway Golf Course, and the state meet is Nov. 6 in at Sun Willows Golf Course in Pasco. Those runners who do not make districts will run in the non-qualifiers meet on Oct. 26 at Roegner Park in Auburn. “Our year is going pretty well. We
didn’t expect to have a really good girls team this year, but a lot of girls have been stepping up. We have a chance at taking our team to districts,” Golden said. Some of the girls that could help take the team to districts are juniors Tayzha Fox and Rose Velasquez, and sophomore Claire Groo. “We have a very young team, with no seniors running varsity, so we’ll have a good team for the next couple of years,” Golden said. As for the boys, they, too, have a chance to carry their team to districts. Lockard and senior Rick Bogatay are the team’s strong one-two finishers. “Both Rick and Curt definitely have a chance at going to state. I’d be surprised if they didn’t qualify,” Golden said. Injuries have been hurting the teams, however. Both Orval McKenzie and Velasquez have been suffering from bad knees and more people are dealing with injuries. “It’s been tough with people hurt, but we’re hoping they’ll all get better, so we can finish our season on a high note,” Golden said.
Girls swim makes districts BY
MARLEAH FEIST
REPORTER
The girls swim team will participate in districts on Oct. 29 at Rogers High School because of their fifth place finish at the Autumn Relays in September. “It’s always an honor to go to districts,” said senior Bailey Kuestermeyer, who also qualified for state during her first meet. “I’ve gone the past three years, which is really fun, and each year it’s exciting, you know, you get the new freshmen coming in and it’s cool.” The swimmers still will have an opportunity at districts to qualify for state, which will be held Nov. 12 and 13 at the King County Aquatics Center in Federal Way. Jen Schmitz, one of the coaches, said that her goals for this season were to go undefeated and bring as many individuals and swimmers to districts and state as she can. The girls lost to Decatur in their third meet, however they fought hard in their fourth meet against Bethel and were victorious. “A really big goal for me is to get swimming out there and let people know that
we have a good swim team,” Kuestermeyer said. Schmitz agrees that the team is close and that the girls are really into each other. “Our team is like a big family,” senior Sara Condra said. “I love everyone, and we get along really well.” Junior Alicia Uecker thinks that the team is fun: “We’re all very supportive of each other – like a big family of sisters.” Jun ior Angela Collier is impressed with the team this year. “Everyone is really nice, and supportive,” she said. “The team is getting better every year. We have a lot more depth this year; it’s not just a few fast people any more.” For those who are looking to join girl’s swim next year, be prepared. Uecker and Collier agree that it takes an incredible amount of passion, hard work and commitment to join the team. “It’s fun though,” Kuestermeyer said. “You make a lot of friends, and our coach is awesome. It’s nice not to be around boys because you can just be stupid girls and be really gross … and just have fun as girls.”
10/20/2004 6:05:05 PM
20 SPORTS
JagWire
JagWire
Spirits soar at Emerald Ridge
NEWS
05
Traffic drives students crazy
Top: Senior Aaron Orheim cheers the football team on to a 17-13 victory at the homecoming game against Decatur. Left: Senior Corey Leiferman and Jake the Jaguar participate in homecoming halftime festivities. Bottom: Seniors Shannon Christian, Heather Logan, and Brandon Myking look on at the during the homecoming game
ER proves that a winning team must be supported by spirited a fanbase BY
LISSY BRYAN
REPORTER
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ing that our school had little to no spirit, Bates felt that the Jag Jacket was needed. It gives seniors the opportunity to wear a jacket that everyone will remember, while cheering in front of the whole school. “Wearing the jacket gives you an awesome feeling because it’s a senior thing and I feel really good because I finally made it and I get to lead everyone in the cheer,” said House, who wore the Jag Jacket at the back to school pep assembly and first football game. Having school spirit in the stands is one thing, and having school spirit in the classroom, according to Lowney, is even better.
Willowcreek Photography by Maddy
Seniors! Get your senior photos on CD and take it to your favorite photo developer - at a fraction of the cost! Located in Graham by appointment 253-845-9124 Weddings, Families, Children, Pets & Business
Between 7:15 a.m. and 7:30 a.m., over 200 vehicles and 17 buses are on their way to Emerald Ridge, the traffic is keeping our buses from being on time to elementary school and junior high stops.
Traffic problems at ERHS are holding up junior highs and elementary schools elsewhere in the district BY
LAUREN OBREGON
REPORTER
Photos by Mikel Armstrong
As the cheerleaders rah and the football players roar, this year it’s the school spirit in the stands taking Emerald Ridge by surprise. While watching from the sidelines, senior cheerleader Dani Castino is amazed at the improvement of our school spirit. “It’s great how the crowd is so hyped up,” she said. “It’s allowing the football team to play even better.” Assisstant football coach Matt Mueller said that the added spirit helps the football team.
“It is easier to play when we know that people support us,” he said. “It makes the game more fun.” The new principal has even noticed a change in the way Jags act. “Since I taught here when the school started, the football games, Jag Crew, and the students themselves have all been more spirited and they also show the respect we have for our school,” Principal Brian Lowney said. When Jaguars attend the games, they notice quite a difference between the Emerald Ridge side and the opposing team. “Our school is way more advanced in our spirit. At volleyball games, the Rogers crowd just sits down. They’re not loud. We are way more rambunctious,” senior Brian House said. With the new year, came new spirit. Sophomores are joining in with the cheers, all classes are dressing up for spirit days, and more students are attending athletic events. “Every year our spirit improves, but with our football team’s improvement and the new leadership of our school, everyone has outstanding spirit because it gives us something more to cheer about,” Castino said. The Jag Jacket cheer, Rock the Mullet, and Rocking the House are all cheers that our school is known for. Students stand in the crowd and cheer along. The Jag Jacket was created the second year of school by teacher Jay Bates. See-
“School spirit allows students to have fun, which gives them a better attitude while in the classroom. It gives students a willingness to learn and do better,” Lowney said. In the eyes of a students, school spirit really is better in the classroom. “When I’m having a good time, it helps me want to focus and learn more,” Castino said. House thinks that although our school is improving, there is still a lot room for more students to join in. “Even if we’re losing, when it comes to spirit, students need to get out of their comfort zone because it makes things more fun and interesting for the crowd,” House said.
Emerald Ridge has been thinking of solutions to the traffic problem. Before and after school, both cars and buses alike have been delayed for an extended period of time. The traffic is not only affecting Emerald Ridge, but holding up junior high and elementary schools as well. “The business superintendent rode the bus the first day of school, and every school was 20 minutes late because of our traffic,” Principal Brian Lowney said. Steps have been taken to start solving
the problem. On Sept. 27, a meeting took place to discuss how to solve the traffic issue. People present were Lowney, Director of Transportation Henry Hammond, Director of Facilities Rudy Fyles, Pierce County Sheriff Deputy Andy Findley, and security guard Rick Burnley. “The problem is, we’re mixing 17 buses with about 200-some cars and trying to fit them out through a narrow passage,” Hammond said. Another concern is with the new housing developments. The buses and students are competing not only with each other, but now with the people who live Deer Ridge, leaving for work in the mornings and coming home after school. “In the future we are looking at around 200 homes to be built up the hill in front of Emerald Ridge,” Fyles said. The 200 more homes will mean a lot more traffic,
however by then there should be more roads built, allowing cars to come and go without a problem. Deputy Findley proposed an idea to alter the intersection to let traffic flow more freely. The revision would include changing the northbound left lane into a free left and the eastbound right lane into a free right. The stop sign would be removed from the corner on the right and moved to the left corner. There also would be a stop sign at the entrance of Deer Ridge for people leaving the development. One major problem is that when the buses go to leave out the second gate, cars are going out the same way, creating a gridlock. To solve this, the buses have started picking students up on the east side of the school allowing them to get out onto the main road more easily. Other concerns are students trying to
cross the street to get to and from school. There is the possibility for students to be hit by a car, especially when drivers speed past the long line of traffic and through the intersection to make a U-turn. The idea to put up a cross walk was suggested so students could cross from the development to school. “There is possibility (if crosswalks are put up) for serious litigation,” Fyles said. “People get too comfortable and walk into the street without looking.” The city requires a certain volume of traffic to flow through the area before a stoplight can be erected. In the future there will be a stoplight put up there, but until then, students will have to make do with a few small changes. “There is no such thing as a quick fix, but it’s a step in the right direction,” Lowney said.
Activities coordinator accepts job in the Northshore District BY
KRISTIN WELLENTIN
REPORTER
Students walking into English teacher Sharyn Mehner’s classes on the first day of school were given a rude awakening. Other teachers were covering her classes and she was nowhere to be found. Mehner left Emerald Ridge shortly before school started to take a new job in the Northshore School District as a technology facilitator. There, she helps teachers use technology more effectively in their classrooms. “Ms. Mehner had an incredible oppor-
tunity up north as a technology facilitator,” said Principal Brian Lowney, “We will definitely miss (her).” Mehner was a part of many organizations at Emerald Ridge. She was an English teacher, student adviser, co-adviser of “Facets,” the school yearbook. She was also activities coordinator and leadership teacher. Her absence left many holes to be filled in the master schedule. Repeated attempts to contact Mehner for comment have been unsucessful. Replacing Mehner as activities coordinator is choir teacher Rob Dennis. It is
his first year in a student leadership role, and he is very excited about it. “It’s work I love doing for schools,” Dennis said. “Students really enjoy doing it, and I like working with them in that capacity.” Assisting Dennis is English teacher Pam Kinkela, who previously worked at Rogers as an activities coordinator. She brings 30 years of experience in school leadership to her position. Kinkela has taken over the leadership class. She was a last-minute addition, but was delighted to help.
“I was happy to step in when Lowney approached me for the position,” Kinkela said. Many students are happy about the change in teachers. “This class is 100 percent more productive and I’ve done more this year so far than last year,” senior Heather Logan said. She was enrolled in last year’s leadership class as well as this one. In order to cover Mehner’s other classes and compensate for over-enrollment, new staff was hired and the school bought out many teacher’s planning periods.
10/20/2004 6:09:30 PM
06 NEWS
JagWire
New schedule creates controversy The new schedule was intended to establish consistency, but for some it caused more chaos than stability BY
AMMA BOFA
REPORTER
With every new school year comes change, and one of the biggest changes this year is the new schedule. According to Principal Brian Lowney, the reason for this change was that at the end of last year there was a huge outcry from teachers to do something to have a new schedule. Some of the biggest reasons for the change were lack of consistency and lunch time management. The schedule this year has several dif-
ferent components. Wednesdays are blue days (all six periods), Mondays and Thursdays are green days (periods one, three, and five) and Tuesdays and Thursdays are silver days (periods two, four, and six). “One of the things that was hard for teachers and students last year was not knowing and not having classes on the same days,” teacher Cindy Watters said. “Having six period Wednesdays helps teachers because now they are getting three planning periods a week and students are guaranteed to go to each class three times a week.” It works better for certain classes such as music and math and it was the only thing that worked for the running start students. Jag Time also has changed this year. It is now only two times a week
and ER @ ER (Everyone Reads at Emerald Ridge) is now on Mondays and Fridays. Advisory is in the middle block between Jag Time and lunch on those days. Two concerns by the student body for the split lunches include the conflict of club meetings and the divide of sophomores, juniors and seniors, which could impede school-wide unity. Sophomores now have lunch before advisory and seniors after, meaning the junior class is divided up. Another new aspect of this years schedule is ER @ ER. “(ER @ ER) is an in-school reading program to increase the amount of time students are reading,” Watters said. “One of the school-wide learning improvement goals was to increase reading. There is a
direct correlation between the amount of time students spend reading and success in school.” As for the split in the lunches, Lowney said, “It is easier to manage; you know who is supposed to be where.” Other reasons for the lunch split include scheduling of class meetings and, according to Watters, so sophomores can develop a sense of community and identity. “We can’t be afraid to try new things,” Lowney said. Furthermore, there are still changes in the works. A Jag Time student advisory has been created to help add student opinion and ideas. “It is by no means a perfect schedule but it’s the best we could come up with at the moment,” Watters said.
CURT L0CKARD
JagWire
SPORTS
19
CROSS COUNTRY
STATS:
–Goal this year: To do well at state competition –5-kilometer personal best: 16 minutes, 46 seconds –2003 SPSL meet finish: 62
What has been your motivation this year? Meeting my goals and the support of the whole rest of the team while I run
What are your plans after high school? Run at a four year college around the Northwest
Senior streaker livens up rivalry football game Senior Payton Foutz streaked during halftime of the ER vs. Rogers football game as Rogers homecoming royalty proceeded past the stands BY
LISSY BRYAN
REPORTER
During the football game against Rogers on Oct. 1, many people watching the halftime show were stunned to see a green, nearly naked male running onto the football field. Covered in green paint and wearing only a paper sack on his head and a jock strap was senior cross country runner Payton Foutz.
Despite punishment rumors that bordered on ridiculous, Foutz was suspended for three days as a result, and can no longer direct the pep band during football games and school assemblies. The reason he chose to streak remains unclear. “It is my last year in high school and I wanted to do something that people would remember me and my sense of humor by,” Foutz said. Foutz started out by running out of the bathroom. He continued through the gates to get onto and across the field at Sparks Stadium, then jumped two high fences, leading him outside of the stadium. After this, he immediately left the area in his car. As a cross country runner, Foutz had the skills to get away. However, cross country coach Gary Osbourne, on
the sidelines filming for video productions, recognized Foutz because of the way that he runs. When Foutz was not at school the following Monday, students started making assumptions and creating rumors about his punishment. Rumors included his being kicked off the cross country team, getting arrested, going to the hospital, and not being allowed to attend homecoming. In reality, Foutz showed back up to school after three days of suspension. He is still on the cross country team, attending high school, and he did not experience being handcuffed or hospitalized from this event. “When I got back to school only three days later, people were shocked to see me, especially when I told them the rumors were not true,” Foutz said.
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Which professional athlete inspires you? Steve Prefontaine’s will to win is inspiring to me
What qualities do you admire in any athlete? Respect and humility are both really important in a good athlete
What do you see as your biggest obstacle? Keeping my head in the run and to overcome the mental will to stop
ATHLETE OF THE MONTH 10/20/2004 6:05:46 PM
18 SPORTS
JagWire
JagWire
Lunch division detrimental to Emerald Ridge unity
Jag Nation back after absence Step team makes a comeback after difficulties last year BY
“
WE DON’T ARGUE LIKE THE OTHER GIRLS DID, WE STICK TOGETHER
JENNIFER WHITHAM
REPORTER
Sophomore Jasmine Walden practices for pep assembly.
There is a step dance team once again. There wasn’t one last year and many students wanted to get the team started up again. The result: Jag Nation returning for another try. In years past, there had been problems concerning the group, which led to the team falling apart, and now there is no prediction as to how successful the group will be this year. Tryouts were held earlier this year and out of the 12 girls who tried out, only six were chosen. With that behind them, next comes lots of practice. The girls have been practicing Monday through Thursday all over, from the upper gym to the lower gym to the YMCA. In 2003-2004, there was no team at all. Previously, there have been issues regarding a step team because of disagreement between its past members. Another reason there was
no team was because there was no one to coach the group. However, Assistant Principal Jeannine Medvedich is coaching the team this year and has confidence in the girls abilities. “The team this year is nothing like the old one, it isn’t the same, we even have a new team name to go along with it,” Medvedich said. Medvedich’s duties as an assistant principal have limited her time spent with the new group called Jag Nation during practice. “The girls have just taken it upon themselves to practice, because I can’t always be there,” Medvedich said. Being adviser of Jag Nation, Medvedich’s responsibilities include helping guide and direct the girls as much as she can. Along with a new coach, there
T
his September brought many changes to the Ridge – a new batch of sophomores, several new staff members (including a new principal), and, most importantly, a new schedule. The 2004-2005 schedule differs from years previous in several major ways. The number of Jag Times has been cut in half and a new, all school reading time has been implemented. Despite these large and controversial issues, our main concern is the system that is currently being used to separate the school into two lunches. In Emerald Ridge’s past, as well as at other schools we have attended, lunch has been determined by factors such as the last name of a student’s adviser or teacher last name, floor level or even which subject he or she is taking. The current system at Emerald Ridge is to separate students based on grade level. The sophomores have one lunch, the seniors another. The juniors are split between. We believe that this method of division has several major flaws. By separating the student body along class lines, we are doing what could become irreparable damage to the Emerald Ridge community. This system ensures that incoming sophomores will never have the privilege of meeting their most upper of classmen. This also creates a school where our seniors cannot hope to benefit from the diverse backgrounds and experiences brought by the class of 2007. The junior class gets split between. The advantages of such a system, as far as we can tell, are mainly logistical. If all the seniors have the same lunch then it will be easier to plan senior class meetings. The same goes for sophomores. Also, it might now be simpler to regulate Jag Times, which we understand is always an issue. We do not want it to seem like we are discrediting these benefits. We acknowledge that they are important. But it seems that this is a situation where the pros are greatly outweighed by the cons. We should not sacrifice
”
—Ishae Gainous, capitain
are two new Jag Nation captains, Chelsea Mayfield and Ishae Gainous. “I think it will be good because we don’t argue like everyone said the other girls did, we stick together,” Gainous said. Other members include Jasmine Walden, Sara Stuckie, Lexi Havsy, and Crystal Nelson. The first performance was during a pep assembly last month, and there were some problems that occurred. Some of the girls stopped because something happened to the music. “If we use music again, we will bring our own box so we know it will work,” Gainous said. And they did. At the Homecoming assembly on Oct. 15, the performance went off without a hitch, and they left the floor to a rousing ovation.
“
BY SEPARATING ... ALONG CLASS LINES, WE ARE DOING WHAT COULD BECOME IRREPARABLE DAMAGE.
Girls soccer vying for first ever spot in playoffs As the fall season draws to a close, hopes run high for a first-ever postseason berth BY
XANDER KNOX
EDITORIAL BOARD
24-18,07.indd 2-3
“
THERE IS LESS INDIVIDUALISM; WHEN WE PLAY WELL, WE JUST COME TOGETHER AND PLAY AS A TEAM
”
— Kates Ginther, senior
ries to key players. Sophomore Elizabeth Degrenier pulled a hamstring putting her out for three to four weeks at the beginning of the season, senior Rachel Malinen is out for the rest of the season with a dislocated jaw, and sophomore Donisha Calhoun broke her ankle, putting her out for an indefinite amount of time. These, plus a handful of other minor injuries, have added up to be another obstacle that could be a burden going into the last third of the season. The girls began league play on Sept. 30 with a surprise upset of Curtis. Junior goalkeeper Jen Brumbaugh played a particularly stellar game, highlighted by blocking a penalty kick during the second half. Brumbaugh has had some big shoes
to fill with the graduation of last year’s keeper, Bridget Schramm, and has done admirably in the face of a number of tough opponents. “I feel like the team is supporting me, and it’s really great to have that in this new position,” Brumbaugh said. Providing support for the team this year has been the inspiration of captains Cornier and senior Amber Stokes. According to both captains, the enthusiasm of the girls has been a major part in the success of the team thus far. With all of this, a berth in postseason play is far from assured. “Senior play has been good, giving the younger girls something to build off of. Their making the best of their third year,” Stueckle said.
THE FINE PRINT
Emerald Ridge High School 12405 184th St. E. South Hill, WA 98374 | 253-435-6300
Photo by Jessica Ritchie
The girls soccer team is in the running for a spot in the postseason, a feat not yet accomplished by the program. “We really want to win this year,” senior captain Monique Cornier said. “We work hard, and it’s showing in our position in league right now.” A big part of the team’s success is an abundance of new faces. Christina Brownlee and Jill Jensen are new additions who have become staples in the team’s lineup. Also new to the team this year is senior Kates Ginther, who transferred from Bellarmine Prep at semester last year and has made a significant contribution as well. “I expected things to be different, coming from last year when Bellarmine took second in the state,” Ginther said. “It is different, but not in the way I thought it would be. There is less individualism;
when we play well, we just come together and play as a team.” Jensen and Ginther play club soccer for FC Royals, one of the best girls’ teams in the state. These and other state level players give coach Dan Stueckle a breadth of experienced talent to pick from. “The new girls have helped create an atmosphere of confidence for everyone, adding to all we have from years past,” Stueckle said. A major recurring obstacle that the girls have faced is a breakdown of focus and drive in practice. “We play like we practice,” Cornier said. “We lose focus at practice, we don’t do as well in the following game. We just need to keep our heads in it and put everything we have on the field if we want to make the postseason.” According to Ginther, they just need to get used to individual playing styles. “We need to get to know each other and how we all play. Playing with each other and keeping up the fight will be key to our success,” Ginther said. Throughout the year another kink in the season has been a handful of inju-
the unity of Emerald Ridge as a whole for convenience, especially if these problems can be solved in other ways. Class assemblies and meetings have always been managed. The sophomores did not all have the same lunch last year and they still elected class officers. We think you will find the student body very flexible when a special circumstance requires a change in schedule. The ease of the current system should not dictate with whom students associate, and, in my opinion, pales when compared to a unified Emerald Ridge. Over this past summer, numerous hours were spent training and educating students in the field of school leadership, specifically utilizing the Link Crew program. At Jag Crew Camp one of the main topics covered was school unity. The Link Crew, Advisory, and Advisory Family programs speak directly to this. We believe that through these programs we are doing a fantastic job trying to involve all students in making ERHS the most caring, welcoming, and united place that it can be. However, the current lunch divisions seem to be in direct opposition to any progress made. We preach togetherness, then we separate. We know that this hypocrisy is not intentional, and that is all the more reason it warrants extra attention. Emerald Ridge has always been the type of school that values students and community above all else. We have never before backed down when things looked hard. We have faced challenges and done things that no one thought possible. We encourage the administration to uphold that tradition, for it is one of the few we have. Rethink the division of lunches. Do not sever bonds before they are made. Emerald Ridge’s students have so much to teach each other. Please do not limit the reach of these lessons.
LETTERS POLICY Jagwire will accept unsolicited copy from students, staff and community members. Only signed and dated letters with address and phone number from community members, or grade level from students, will be accepted. Letters must be limited to 300 words and will be published as space is available. All letters are the sole opinion of the writers, and the staff reserves the right to edit any letter for space and/or clarity. We will not publish material that may substantially disrupt the school process. Letters to the editor may be submitted by mailing them to
”
OP/ED
07
Have an opinion you want to express? WRITE A LETTER TO THE EDITOR! Submit entries to Mr. Nusser in room E157
STAFF EDITORIAL BOARD ..............................................CARISSA CARTER ....................................................................................... XANDER KNOX ................................................................................ LINDSEY MAXFIELD ...........................................................................................TYLER QUINN ................................................................................... JAMES STANFORD DESIGN EDITOR ...............................................MIKEL ARMSTRONG PHOTOGRAPHY EDITOR .....................................ERICA BOSNICK REPORTERS ...................................................................... AMMA BOFA .............................................................................................. ANNA BOFA ...............................................................................................LISSY BRYAN ......................................................................................EMILY CAETANO .............................................................................................. MATT CLICK ........................................................................................ MARLEAH FEIST ............................................................................................. TAYZHA FOX ................................................................................ BRITTANY GENTILE .................................................................................. KAITLYN GOLDEN ...........................................................................................KASSIE GREEN .............................................................................................. NICK KAJCA ..............................................................................KATINA MATHIESON ................................................................................LAUREN OBREGON ..................................................................................ELAINE RAYMOND .......................................................................................JESSICA RITCHIE ........................................................................................... DREW SCOTT ........................................................................................ROBIN STOYLES .............................................................................. KRISTIN WELLENTIN .............................................................................. JENNIFER WHITHAM .............................................................................. GRANT WOODRUFF BUSINESS MANAGER ...................................... LINDSEY MAXFIELD ADVISER .............................................................................. JEFF NUSSER AFFILIATES
CSPA, JEA, NSPA, SPJ, WJEA, WSJA
This editorial is composed by, and is the opinion of, the JagWire editorial board.
Jagwire c/o Emerald Ridge High School, or by e-mailing them to jagwired03@hotmail.com. EDITORIAL MISSION As JagWire enters its fifth year, our goal is to first and foremost continue to serve as an open public forum for student expression. JagWire strives to remain a quality, hard-hitting, informative, and entertaining communication link between students, faculty, and the Emerald Ridge community. Our publication will tackle issues that impact our readers and raise awareness while maintaining the highest journalistic standards. JagWire will keep the values of an award-winning newsmagazine by creating a viewpoint that is unique to ourselves and our school, while recognizing the accomplishments and events that require our coverage.
Our mission is to continue learning, to constantly work on self-improvement, and always bear a reflective eye towards our work. We will make an effort to represent ERHS and the surrounding community, while also providing a publication in which to take pride. ADVERTISING MISSION The Jagwire publication staff accepts advertisements for most products and services available to the public. However, the staff reserves the right to reject, edit or cancel any advertisement that the staff deems offensive in light of normal public standards. Ads identifying students as athletes by photo or text (WIAA 18.20.0 and 18.20.1) also will not be accepted. The staff will not accept advertising for products or groups which are racist, sexist or illegal for high school students.
10/20/2004 6:09:08 PM
08
FEATURE
JagWire
JagWire
Girls volleyball has done well in past seasons, but this year’s hopes are for winning the state title
By Grant Woodruff The Daffodil Princess is a tradition that has its roots going as far back as 1926 when a prominent Sumner couple held an enormous party at their home. Since then the Daffodil pastime has evolved into a parade drawing large crowds from as far as Spokane. The Daffodil Princess/Queen tradition is relatively new, allowing 20 princesses from 20 different high schools to compete for Daffodil Queen. ERHS selected its princess Oct. 21 from among six senior girls, each of whom was escorted by an outstanding senior boy. This princess will compete against the 19 others for the title of Daffodil Queen. The Daffodil Queen is then selected by a panel of judges who score her on her academic ability, personality, attitude, speaking ability, appearance, sociability, content of her speech, festival awareness and impromptu speaking. Each of the 20 princesses will have to make a huge time commitment giving up every Saturday from now until March. The princesses are expected to attend many community events, including attending elementary schools, nursing homes, several parades, and even meet the governor. Here are the Emerald Ridge Daffodil Princess candidates. Due to the deadline date, the princess chosen on Thursday will be featured on getjagwired.com
“It’s an honor to even be selected,” Wellentin said. “I consider it a privilege and a great opportunity to meet new people. The other girls are all awesome. Whoever wins will honor our school.” Wellentin was escorted by Jon An and Nick Paterno
Allie Freeman “There’s so much to gain you might as well try,” Freeman said. She sees this competition as a great way to meet new people with similar interests, challenge herself, and help the community in a big way. Xander Knox escorted Freeman.
17
Setting sights to win state
Good flowers come in half dozens
Kristin Wellentin
SPORTS
BY
XANDER KNOX
EDITORAL BOARD
Emerald Ridge has had precious few success stories when it comes to athletics, but the volleyball team is setting its sights on reaching new highs at the state level. “I was really excited coming into this year because I knew we would do well,” senior Kelsi Bortoluzzi said. “We have a solid starting lineup, and players that are just as good to support off the bench.” That says something for a team that has placed in state every year since their second season, including a fourth place finish last year. “We only lost two seniors coming off of last year, so I knew coming into this season that we have real potential,” coach Tanya Campbell said. As of mid-October, the team was third in the South Puget Sound League South Division and is ranked fourth in the state. The only hitches on the season were losses to Spanaway Lake and Bethel, their main rivals in the league. “The game against Spanaway could have gone either way, and losing to them now just makes us want to beat them even more when we see them at districts or state,” Bortoluzzi said. Besides the losses, the team has placed in the top three in every weekend tournament since the beginning of the season. The Jaguars are looking forward to facing teams from other leagues in the state tournament on Nov. 5 and 6. “Aside from Spanaway Lake, we will
Katelyn Markham Markham has waited for the chance to be Daffodil Queen since she was a child. “This is a great opportunity to be a leader, role model, and really help the community,” Markham said. Adrian Ball was Markham’s escort.
Junior Emily Powell tries to add another point on the board during the long and intense match against Bethel. The Braves won in five sets.
have some tough competition at the state level. University and Mead from Spokane are both ranked higher than us, and will probably be our biggest rivals at the tournament,” Bortoluzzi said. Supporting the team this year are a number of returning seniors unmatched by any previous year. Anna and Amma Bofa, Lindsey Maxfield, Ashley Brodie, Taryn Cartledge, Mikela Kiely, and Bortoluzzi make up the seven players who will be graduating at the end of the year. “The seniors are doing a good job of sharing responsibility. They are focused on playing together and competing against the rest of league as opposed to each
other,” Campbell said. Assisting Bortoluzzi in her leadership duties are senior captain Anna Bofa and floor captain junior Kylie Marshall. Bofa, Marshall, and Bortoluzzi, all returning players from last year, have been major contributors to the team’s inspirational well-being, according to Campbell. The number of seniors isn’t the only thing responsible for the success of the team. Behind those seniors are several key players that have helped the girls get this far. Along with Marshall, who played for the U.S. Junior National Team over the
summer, juniors Emily Neiblas and Emily Powell have stepped from swing positions last year to full-time varsity this year. “I think (next year) will be tough, but we have a really talented group of juniors who have supported varsity this year,” Powell said. With the pending loss of all the seniors after this year, the pressure is on to return to state this year and make it three-forthree for those graduating. “I am really confident about our chances in districts and beyond. I’m excited to get to state and play teams we haven’t seen since last year,” Bortoluzzi said.
Girls golf secures their first SPSL championship
24-08,17.indd 2-3
“This is a great opportunity to represent our school and work with other people towards a common goal,” Anderson said. She believes it will give her good skills to go out into the world with and that it will be a fun opportunity. Aaron Orheim was escorting Anderson.
Shanon Christian “This is a great opportunity for all of us to learn a lot of valuable skills while at the same time helping our community,” Christian said. “Daffodil Princess is an excellent chance for us to earn money for college and help other people at the same time.” Christian’s escort was Brandon Myking
BY
KAITLYN GOLDEN
REPORTER Photo by Mikel Armstrong
Capestany wants the opportunity to branch out in the community and help others. “Daffodil Princess is a great way of meeting new friends and learning important skills like public speaking and how to carry yourself,” Capestany said. Capestany was escorted by Mikel Armstrong.
Cydney Anderson
Photo by James Stanford
Theresa Capestany
Varsity and junior varsity combine for 19-1 mark, making a 180-degree turnaround for last season
The girls golf team has turned around last year’s 1-9 season into a 9-1 record this year to become the SPSL champs. “This year, we’ve played very well as a team, and we just have more experience all throughout the team,” coach Jim Meyerhoff said.
Captain Cydney Anderson agrees. “All our girls are really talented, and our season has really reflected that because we are SPSL champs,” Anderson said. One factor that has contributed to the girl’s golf team’s excellent season is that they have the largest team in the league. “We have 16 girls out, which is the biggest turnout ever, and makes us the largest team in the league. Rogers has 15 girls, but we don’t have any beginners,” Meyerhoff said. The team definitely has depth, as the junior varsity went 10-0 and eight or
nine different girls that played varsity throughout the season. In a golf match, there are six people that play varsity and six people that play JV. The one and two girls from each school play against each other, the three and four girls play against each other and same for the five and six. “We won our matches through our depth,” Meyerhoff said, “Our five and six girls were stronger than everyone else’s. Some schools only had five girls out, and their last few would be beginners.” That depth was useful during the district tournament, which was held on Oct.
19-20, where the varsity six competed. State for golf is not until June 1 because it is a split season and some places in the state do not have golf until the spring. Things look bright for next year, as well. “We are a very young and talented team with a lot of potential to accomplish great things through the next couple years,” No. 2 golfer Kristin Rasmussen added.
For the latest girls golf district results, visit http://gojags.org
10/20/2004 6:06:16 PM
16
SPORTS
Doy speeds up football Running back sets records with an elusive speedy style, while helping the Jaguars get in playoff position BY CARISSA CARTER EDITORIAL BOARD
Inspiration causes many to strive for excellence. It comes from many places and affects everyone differently. For junior running back and cornerback Neko Doy, the inspiration that allows him to put forth his best effort comes from his father, Robert Doy. Neko’s father has been through many difficult times – Robert was in the Army and had a brain tumor that was supposed to hinder him from walking. Robert Doy had 95 percent of his brain tumor removed through surgery which allowed him to be able to walk again. “He’s really strong. I know I couldn’t walk around normal every day just knowing I could die,” Neko Doy said. Doy has been plenty strong on the football field. In the first game of the season, against Bethel, Doy set a school record of four touchdowns in one game. In a game that would end 44-39, the near upset of the state-ranked Braves shocked most people
FEATURE
JagWire
JagWire
and set the stage for the season. Doy then rushed for 194 yards against Rogers, leading the team to its second win of the season, 22-14. The team came back from a 14-12 deficit at half time to become the King of the Hill as Doy put the game away by scoring the last touchdown with roughly three minutes to go. Doy also led the team in its 17-13 homecoming victory against Decatur, which increased the team’s chances to go to the playoffs. Doy was nominated for the Puyallup Herald’s Player of the Week for Aug. 29 through Sept. 4, and was listed as one of the News Tribune’s top performers for his night against Rogers. While Doy appreciates it, he is also dedicated to the team. “It’s better for the team to win than to get the recognition,” Doy said. Still, by getting recognition, Doy must be doing something right. For the first time, the team has a chance at the playoffs if they win the remainder of their games. “He helps us in a couple of ways,” coach Kelly Susee said. “He brings speed into the backfield, and he is elusive.” Doy got started playing football in fourth grade when some neighbors pulled him out for a game. Back then he was a little timid. “I didn’t like getting hit because I was afraid to break something,” Doy said. Now, Doy enjoys the contact of football. “I like the contact because it’s the only sport where you can hurt someone,” Doy said. At 5 feet, 8 inches and 175 pounds, Doy is weightlifting five times a week to improve his game. “I think Neko is starting to mature as a player and a person, (and) the growth has been nice to see,” Susee said.
Students visit for new experiences and politics Exchange students matriculate to South Hill to learn, experience and enjoy the life of an American teenager ki
aka Ai T
Junior Neko Doy ran for four touchdowns in this season-opening game against Bethel.
Many of Doy’s teammates have complete faith in his skills and abilities. “He has the drive and won’t let himself fail,” said senior captain Brynsen Brown, who has watched Doy pick up the playmaking load as Brown rehabilitates his injured knee. According to Doy, the team is much more confident because of a new offense and because with the graduation of last year’s senior class, the previous negative attitude is gone. “I haven’t had the opportunity to be around such a small group but still feel good about what we’re doing,” Susee said. With 25 players on the varsity team, Susee says coaching is all worthwhile. The players’ confidence is partially due to the team’s new offense. “(The new offense) gets the ball in the air but still has rushing opportunities and balance,” Brown said. Susee feels there will always be room
09
Saya Komatsu
for improvement. “We need to find ways to simulate game situations and work better at practices and continue to get more bodies out there,” Susee said. The team is 4-3. “My goal for this team is to get better each week and after nine weeks see if we have a chance to keep playing (in the postseason),” Susee said. Doy has many activities outside of school besides football. He is on the track team where he runs the 100-meter and 200-meter dashes. Doy also is enrolled in graphic design and drawing classes. Doy plans on taking the skills he learns in high school football and applying them in college and hopefully someday the National Football League. “As a junior, Neko has shown he has some football talent … there is still too much time to tell what that will be,” Susee said.
i
gl e Fau Bent
BY
ANNA BOFA
REPORTER
For the last 40 years the United States has been said to be the most powerful country in the world. Everything it does is examined and every decision it makes affects the rest of the world, in some way or another. That includes who is voted President. Living in such a powerful country can make it easy to forget that other countries might see things differently. This year there are 10 exchange students representing six different countries who bring this differing world view: Amanda Fontana from Venezuela; Renate Ulbrich and Felix Weiss from Germany; Marcus Frietas and Rafisa Pousa from Brazil; Elide Gonzalez from Mexico; Saya Komatsu and Ai Takaki from Japan; Dong Woo Yoh from North Korea; and Bente Faugli from Norway. Interestingly enough, all of them agreed that their countries’ view of the United States is not that great. “People in Germany think Americans only care about themselves and that they waste many things,” Pousa said. The others agree that Americans and selfishness seem to go hand in hand. However, the biggest controversy to them and their respective countries is the war in Iraq. “I don’t like President Bush, because of Iraq and what he’s done to the people there,” Gonzalez said. The United States seemed to lose a lot of respect from people around the world when it decided to
go to war. “The fact that the United States went against the United Nations did not help the cause,” said Faugli. Although there are many issues and concerns surrounding the U.S. right now, the exchange students still say that this country has much to offer. “In (North) Korea, the (communist) government takes a lot and doesn’t leave much for the people,” Woo Yoh said. “There are too many problems to count.” Gonzalez said that despite the disagreements, Mexico still respects the United States. “I believe my country depends on the U.S.,” she said. Pousa still seems to have a soft spot for Bush – “It’s not good, the war in Iraq but he’s not so bad,” she said – but others still have strong feelings against Bush. “I would vote for Kerry,” Komatsu said. Counselor Mariano Leon-Guerrero said that having these 10 students at Emerald Ridge is invaluable. They can offer insight, and many things both great and small can be learned from them. “We have another opportunity to learn about other cultures through daily interactions and shared experience,” said Leon-Guerrero, who also is the adviser to the exchange students. The spotlight is on the United States right now and many people will be watching what goes on in this election. “People are fascinated with American politics,” said Frietas. Weiss also agrees with this. “Nowhere else is freedom of speech so celebrated,” he said. It can be said that the leader of the United States will be a world leader as well. “We want to portray and champion democracy,” Leon-Guerrero said.
Ra
fisa
Po u
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Amanda Fontana
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Injured senior captain Brynsen Brown looks on.
Starting wide receiver and defensive end Brynsen Brown injured his knee during a mid-week practice Sept. 28 bad enough to miss three games against Rogers, Thomas Jefferson, and Decatur, but may return tonight against Spanaway Lake. During a routine practice, Brown caught a pass and started to run. His foot slipped on the wet grass at an awkward angle, and
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then sophomore Nick Merrell tackled him, putting pressure on Brown’s knee. After getting several doctors’ opinions, it was determined Brown had partially torn his ACL and would be unable to play for the next three weeks at a minimum. “(The injury was) a fluke,” Brown said. “I would never have thought it would’ve happened to me.” Coach Kelly Susee believes there may have been a higher power at work. “The injury was very unlucky and was
driven by God trying to do something for Brown or the team,” said Susee, whose team has won all three games with Brown on the sidelines. “There’s been a genuine effort to become closer as a team and do things unselfishly after he got hurt,” Susee said. As for what is to come, Brown said his injury is easy to re-injure and the team has a good chance of going to playoffs if they win the remainder of their games. “I just hope I can be 100 percent so
that I can contribute,” Brown said. Brown also is on the wrestling team and has gone to Washington State MAT Classic XVI Championships in the 189pound weight class, placing second last season. Barring another injury, he should be ready to go for the beginning of the season. “If Brynsen ends up not being able to play at the beginning of the season, we have strong enough players to be competitive,” wrestling coach Jim Meyerhoff said.
Photos by Mikel Armstrong and Facets yearbook staff
EDITORIAL BOARD
Photo by Anna Bofa
Brown misses time with ACL injury; return imminent? BY CARISSA CARTER
Elide Gonzalez
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Renate Ulbrich
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Fri et
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10/20/2004 6:08:47 PM
10 FEATURE
JagWire
JagWire
Sudanese student moves to the United States to improve family life, experience his first movie, and continue vegging out at Jack in the Box
Spontaneous jokes, witty banter and odacious humor aew the perfect words to describe the often funny, often hilarious, and sometimes offensive teacher Matt White
BY
DREW SCOTT
REPORTER
Yousif Elwasila is not your usual high school junior. Unlike most students, Yousif was born and raised in another country. He just moved to the United States this summer with his family after spending seven years in Saudi Arabia. His story is both unique and inspiring. Elwasila’s journey began in Ummdurman, Sudan, where he grew up. He was born into a country ravaged by civil war, a country that still continues its struggle to this day. Peace is a distant dream for the people of Sudan – 27 years of war have destroyed it. Everything from the schools to the economy was ruined. “You learn to be thankful,” Elwasila said. He was fortunate to be at least somewhat out of the line of fire while in Sudan. “I was living in Northern Sudan, which at the time was safer than the south, where all of the killing and fighting was taking place,” he said. Life for many people in Sudan was an everyday struggle. There was insufficient food and inadequate shelter. “It was not a place of opportunity,” Elwasila said. That is why his father, a doctor, decided to move the family to Saudi Arabia, where their family was able to find some comfort. “The living situation was better,” Elwasila said. Life
I’M A FAN OF CONTROVERSY. I LIVE BY THE LOOPHOLE
”
was easier, his parents obtained jobs and he attended an all-boys international school. “I went to school with kids from all over the world – Kenya, Egypt, everywhere,” he said. Elwasila was able to make friends and live a happier life. On a visit to the United States however, his parents realized how much better off they could be. Like so many other people, they came to the United States for an improved life. Elwasila says that the biggest difference between Sudan, Saudi Arabia and the United States is freedom. “There was no freedom. It was not even safe to go out after dark in those countries – you could be killed. Here you can go out anytime,” Elwasila said. Most of Elwasila’s family, including his grandparents, still live in Sudan. He worries about them, but he also knows that they are in the safest part of the country – the capital, Khartoum. He hopes to see them again one day, but he says he would never go back to Sudan. “There is nothing there for me,” Elwasila said. “My future is here.” Elwasila believes he has a bright future. Living in the conditions he did made him realize how important his education was. He plans to stay in the United States and go to school at the University of Washington to study medicine and become an ear, nose and throat doctor. Elwasila – who goes by the name Joe at school because his classmates struggle with his given name – still is getting used to life in Puyallup, and for the most part he likes it. He loves Jack in the Box and can’t wait to go to his first movie. “The people are friendly and more open,” he said, “but
“Joe,” as Elwasila likes to be called, loves his life in Puyallup.
it sure rains a lot.” People might call him a survivor or an inspiration, but Elwasila says, “Just call me Joe.” It’s a typical American name for a unique kid who just wants to fit in and be accepted like everyone else.
Hypokritz expand this year with 5 new additions Once again, Emerald Ridge’s improv comedy troupe makes it their goal to split their audience’s sides BY
NICK KAJCA
REPORTER
Photo by Mikel Amrstrong
Matt White leads a busy life advising the Hypokritz , teaching AP Government and CWP, as well as a Pyschology class. “I believe it is my job to make any subject I teach fun and interesting,” he says.
Photo by Carissa Carter
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ANNA BOFA
REPORTER
Sometimes offensive but still hilarious: that’s the only way to describe teacher Matt White. His humor, although occasionally inappropriate, splits the sides of all his students as often as it offends them. White makes good use of his wit in everything school related. From CWP and AP Government to Psychology, from JV Girls Soccer at ERHS and Boys Soccer at PHS to Hypocritz, his spontaneous jokes are a constant in his life. But don’t think that means his students don’t learn anything educational. “We are just rehashing old presidential elections (in AP Government),” White said. “Seriously.” White has high standards for his classes, and while he does crack jokes and make people laugh, learning is the overall objective of his outragous comments. “I believe it’s my job to make any subject I teach fun and interesting,” White — Matt White said. Fun his lessons certainly are. “He makes the class fun to be in, especially for an AP class,” said Federico Gonzalez, a senior in White’s AP Government class. White says he’s always worked to make his classes enjoyable, even from his first years of teaching. How did he come to teach this way?“God made me this way.” Concerning the offensive side of White’s humor, it’s gotten him in trouble many times. His comments and actions often toe the fine line between what’s considered acceptable and what could cause a public outcry. For example, how would White react if he were a vice presidential candidate and Vice President Dick Cheney had admitted that he had never seen White before their first debate, as Cheney did to Sen. John Edwards? “Well, screw you sunshine – and that would end my political career,” White said. White has also gotten in trouble for his humor as advisor of The Hypocritz, a club that puts on skits for comedy. Last year, the Hypocritz decided to have a few players of the football team, clad in football gear, tackle a few of their members, padded only by pillows, for an assembly. One of The Hypocritz was hurt when she was tackled and her head hit the floor. Although it was an accident, White got some phone calls about it. White has also a simple explanation for his borderline humor: “I’m a fan of controversy. I live by the loophole,” White said. His students enjoy his humor anyway. “I like it because it’s what everyone is thinking but doesn’t have the guts to say,” senior Theresa Capestany said.
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Elwasila – just the average ‘Joe’
The Incredible Mister White BY
FEATURE
Another year of school has started and that means another year of comedy form the school’s own student-run comedy troupe, The Hypokritz. The group has just finished auditions and is now beginning to gear up for its first performance on Dec. 17. The Hypokritz added three sophomores and two juniors to replace the five vacancies left by graduated seniors. Paul Klein, Chase Wagner, and Kate Gruver make up the sophomores and Rachel Owens and Ryan McNamara make up the juniors. The audition process featured 25 students doing improv and telling funny stories in hopes of claiming a spot in the coveted group. The new members were chosen based on their ability to be humorous and their comfort level on stage. The
nine returning members hope the new members will help make The Hypokritz an overall stronger group. The idea to a start a student-run comedy troupe first came about four years ago by Scott Baxter and Amanda Christian as part of a senior project. Thanks to good support and success, their idea stuck and the group has formed each of the following years. Although The Hypokritz is a comedy troupe they offer a great opportunity for young actors. “The Hypokritz have made me a stronger performer and has made me more confident on stage,” said senior Nick Ferrucci, a three-year member of the group. Being student-run continues to be a key part of The Hypokritz. “One hundred percent of our material is student innovated,” said junior Amanda Pisetzner, a second-year member of the comedy group. “A week before each show Matt White reads over all our material,” Pisetzner said. White, a teacher at the school is the
group’s adviser and makes sure everything is appropriate. The group has never had any trouble with censorship. The group is starting to get excited as practices for the first show of the year are getting under way and thoughts could not be more positive. “This year’s group has the potential
to be even funnier then past groups,” Ferrucci said. The group is coming up with fresh and creative ideas to improve their improv for next year. “We have got some surprises and good things planned for the upcoming year,” Pisetzner said.
10/20/2004 6:07:05 PM
Students answer freedom’s call By Katie Mathieson The presidential election is almost here, and once again, people are talking. In the past, teenagers, especially those too young to vote, have been ignored by politicians, and in turn, teenagers have ignored politicians. Not this time, however. This time, there’s something going on at Emerald Ridge to change the way teens think about politics. This plan is known as Freedom’s Answer, a nonpartisan, non-profit voter turnout campaign. This isn’t just at Emerald Ridge, however, it is a national program to get teens involved in the election, even if they’re too young to vote. With headquarters in Washington D.C. and divisions in every state, Freedom’s Answer is gaining attention nationwide. According to a mission statement from the founding students of Freedom’s Answer, “Many of us (students) are suspicious about politics because politicians don’t listen. We don’t listen because we think that we have no power. We’re changing that.” One program that Freedom’s Answer is emphasizing at Emerald Ridge and other high schools across the country is the Take Ten program. Participants take a form to have 10 people pledge to vote. Take Ten forms were passed out to advisories. The goal for this election is to get 2,500,000 Americans to each get 10 people to pledge to vote, raising the turnout by 25 million. Participants are encouraged to call their pledges on election eve to make sure that they remember to vote, or even accompany them to the polls if necessary. The Take Ten Program is off to a slow start so far at Emerald Ridge, as less than 20 forms had been returned as of mid-October. Not only is Freedom’s Answer trying to get more people to vote, but it is helping students be more aware of what is going on with the election. “Students need to educate themselves and know what they
want,” senior Cydney Anderson said. Anderson is one of the main students involved in Freedom’s Answer at Emerald Ridge. Smaller Learning Communities Coordinator Lisa Kusche, who is responsible for collecting Take Ten forms from students once they are filled out, thinks that the Take Ten program will help to educate students on the actual issues that have arisen in the debates this year. “Too often, students create caricatures of the candidates, instead of delving deeper into the issues and platforms,” Kusche said. She thinks that when kids talk to their pledges, they will get to see different opinions from their own, and become more educated about the other side of the political arguments. Freedom’s Answer’s first victory came in the 2002 mid-term elections when the national voter turnout record was broken by 2.8 million people. The turnout record also was broken in 27 separate states. This year, Freedom’s Answer has its sights set even higher. It wants to have 2,500,000 students participating, which is 1,500,000 more than 2002. Another goal is to have 10,000 schools participating instead the 2,500 schools that participated in 2002. There is also a book by a group of students who call themselves the Sept. 11 Generation about Freedom’s Answer, which was written by six students from different high schools around the country. The book outlines the points and purposes of Freedom’s Answer, along with some personal accounts of the aftermath of Sept. 11. In the book it states: “This book is about what answer freedom (and a million high school students who revere it) provided in the election of 2002 to the terrorism of 2001. Millions more will write the next chapter of Freedom’s Answer in 2004 – and re-write how our democracy works. That is our American Dream.” “Take the time, get involved,” Anderson said. “If you have the chance, why not take it?”
To learn more about Freedom’s Answer –www.FreedomsAnswer.net –E-mail the National coordinators at Students@FreedomsAnswer.org –E-mail Cassi Hunter (the State coordinator) at HommieC@hotmail.com
“Students need to educate themselves and know what they want.” –Cydney Anderson, senior
OTE With the presidential election on the horizon, JagWire takes a non-partisan look at the candidates, issues and what students are doing to affect its outcome “I won’t vote because I feel like my vote doesn’t count.” –Jenny Wiedel, senior
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10/20/2004 6:08:13 PM
Voter Apathy William Hung for President?
By Tayzha Fox The hot topic for many seniors is not who won the presidential debate or who is leading the polls, but what went down in the last episode of “One Tree Hill.”Voting seems like such a foreign task for some juniors and seniors that many ask themselves, “Why vote anyway?” Even though many upperclassmen are now at the golden age of opportunity to have a chance to vote and have a voice – many are foregoing this right in order to protest their views. Nearing the age of 18, senior Jenny Wiedel could not be persuaded to mark the ballot for the any candidate. She also believes that in the election’s overall result, she really has no say. “I won’t vote because I feel like my vote doesn’t count,” Wiedel said. She believes this because of some mishaps that occurred in the last election. Remember the chads? There were the pregnant chads, the hanging chads, and the dimpled chads. The Bush-Gore election of 2000 caused some widespread skepticism. Many of the votes were miscounted, and Wiedel fears that this may occur again. Eighteen-year-old Tom Alvord decided not to vote this coming election because he feels it’s simply too much work. “I don’t have enough knowledge about everyone who’s running and I don’t want to sacrifice my time to learn about them,” Alvord said. On the contrary, 17-year-old Tyler Davis claims he wouldn’t vote despite his knowledge on the candidates. “I don’t think that either of the candidates should go into office because they lied so much in the primary and in the Democratic and Republican conventions. Neither of the candidates are stable,” Davis said.
Students Speak Out:
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million votes cast by 18-25 year olds in 2000’s presidential election million votes cast by 18-25 year olds during the third season of American Idol
particularly happy with it. So with Kerry you’re not guaranteed a better thing, but you get a chance with something different. SY – I would say I’m leaning more towards Bush, but I think that they both have really good qualities. … There are some things I like more that Kerry talks about, some things I like more that Bush talks about, but I think just the fact that I am so against abortion, for that reason I would say Bush, but then again it’s also not a good idea for me to vote based on that one specific thing. JW – Is there one deciding topic that makes you feel the way you do? FI – Abortion, gay marriage, I don’t know. JA – No, there isn’t really any decisive topic. I’m not really Democratic, not really Republican. … independent kind of. The answers they give most likely influence me, rather than the topics. JW – What, if anything, are you doing to influence the outcome of this election? SL – Usually, I don’t really go for one candidate when I talk to people. If they’re for Kerry, I try to argue the Bush side, and if they’re for Bush I argue the Kerry side, just to get people to open their mind more, because lots of times people will be influenced just by their parents and not really make their own opinions, so just getting people to vote and actually form their own ideas. JA – I don’t particularly volunteer towards “Oh choose Kerry, choose Bush.” I volunteer to just help getting people to vote, because voting really means a lot, rather than telling them to choose one candidate over another. DT – I don’t have a whole lot to do. I’m not of age to vote yet,
The The Death DeathPenalty: Penalty: Bush: The president oversaw 152 executions as governor of Texas, calling it an effective deterrent. He doesn’t think that the death penalty should be supported to seek revenge but rather because he believes it saves other people’s lives. Kerry: Kerry opposes the death penalty believing it is racially biased and flawed. He has sponsored legislation to halt federal executions.
Abortion: Abortion: Bush: Opposition to abortion (except in very narrow cases of rape, incest or threat to the woman’s life) is at the core of Bush’s “right-to-life” platform. He opposes funding international organizations involved in abortion as well as “partial-birth abortion,” which he calls a “brutal and violent practice.” He opposes school-based clinics that provide referrals or counseling for contraception and abortion. He supports legislation to extend 14th Amendment protections to unborn children. Kerry: Supports legal abortion and says he would not pick Supreme Court nominee justices who disagreed. Kerry voted against measures to outlaw intact dilation and extraction (partial-birth abortion) and has endorsed family planning and health insurance plans that provide abortion counseling and contraceptive coverage.
Education: Education: Bush: His administration created the No Child Left Behind Act, which pushes to improve elementary and secondary education by toughening standards for teachers, schools and student achievement. It demands accountability in exchange for federal funding going to K-12 public education. Bush has said that if reelected during his second term he will reform America’s high school’s and create new education reform. He would provide 250 million to states for assessment testing and promote literacy through the Reach Out and Read program. Federal spending on education has jumped nearly 50 percent since Bush took office. Kerry: Like Bush, Kerry believes every child should be held to high standards and that every school should have the resources to meet those standards. Kerry wants every classroom to have a great teacher and every student to graduate from high school. To do this his plan would establish a National Education Trust Fund to give schools the funding they need. It would ensure that the No Child Left Behind Act works by rewarding schools that meet higher standards and make improvements. The plan also offers better pay for teachers who work in troubled schools. Kerry would support after school programs with his “School’s Open Till Six” initiative. This program would offer after school opportunities to 3.5 million children. Kerry also has a plan to ensure that every young person who wants to go to college can afford it. He would offer a fully refundable College Opportunity Tax credit on up to $ 4,000 of tuition every year of college and offer aid to states to help keep tuition down. He opposes private-school vouchers.
Five students discuss their politics, Bush and Kerry, and what issues matter to them
JagWire – In what ways do you think the election will directly affect your life? Jon An, senior – Draft maybe? I’m 18 now so I don’t know, whoever is elected president may issue a draft or not. Gay marriage? David Treichel, junior – They talk a lot about education, so that will affect us directly. Faustine Im, senior – Well, abortion would do it for the women, but you know, personally I wouldn’t do it, I mean like I wouldn’t be pregnant for that to happen but for women around me, yeah … so that would kind of freak me out. Abortion is homicide. Summer Yates, sophomore – Yeah, well, the plans that they’re making like now, and the plans they’re talking about by the time that they get passed, we’ll be old enough so it will directly affect us. JW – Which of the candidates do you want to become president? DT – John Kerry, because he’s NOT George W. Bush. I don’t know, George Bush doesn’t seem like an intelligent person, and it doesn’t seem like he’s running the country, and I really don’t like his position on gay marriage … and the war in Iraq, I don’t like that. I don’t necessarily think that Kerry can fix all that, but I think that maybe he can do other things. FI – I want Bush because I am a Republican, I don’t like the whole gay marriage, I’m very conservative. And the whole thing about the war, I think that’s crap because no matter who gets picked, we’re still going to be in it. Like they can withdraw and everything, but that’ll still take time. Sheldon Lessard, senior – I’d personally go for Kerry because we’ve already seen what Bush does and I’m not really
Candidates on the Issues
Homosexual Issues: and lesbian issues: Bush: Has called for a constitutional amendment to ban same-sex marriages, saying there must be one uniform national standard immune to judicial reversal. He has not taken a firm position on civil unions, saying he would leave the issue up to the states.
Faustine Im, David Treichel, and Jon An share their ind ivi dua l vie ws abo ut politics and the election
Kerry: Opposes same-sex marriages but also opposes a constitutional amendment to ban them. He supports the recognition of civil unions in order to extend all federal benefits to same-sex couples. Kerry sponsored the Employment NonDiscrimination Act, which bans job discrimination against homosexuals.
Health care: Care: Health Bush: The number of Americans without health insurance has risen in his presidency, reaching nearly 44 million. President Bush has a plan that he says will reduce the cost of health care and provide affordable coverage to those who need it. The plan says it will open or expanded community and rural health centers, establish a tax-free Health Savings Account (HSA) and create Medicare Prescription Drug benefits as well as a new rule to lower prescription drug costs. Kerry: He has a plan that he says will provide affordable, high-quality coverage to those who need it. His plan entails giving the unemployed a 75 percent tax credit to help pay for insurance as well as tax credits for small businesses and their employees for health insurance.
I don’t really know many people who are of age to vote or who do vote, besides my parents, and they already have their opinions set, so I just try and follow what’s going on as best I can, and just know. FI – I like debating and clarifying. Like for the whole Bush thing, if someone has this wrong view on Bush in the debates or something, I like to clarify. I’m kind of like “Go for Bush” because I think that he’s a better candidate. SY – I wouldn’t try to make someone, because they both have really good qualities, and they both have really bad qualities, and whether or not it’s up to us, one of them is going to be in office, so trying to influence to actually vote and form their own opinions is better than not voting at all.
HomelandSecurity: Security: Homeland Bush: Bush has called homeland security his “most important job” and created the Department of Homeland Security. Bush supports the U.S. Patriot Act which he signed after 9/11 in order to give law enforcement better tools to fight terrorism. Under the Patriot Act the government is given certain powers which include attorney-client monitoring, immigrant registration and detention, and FBI guidelines governing investigations of religious and political groups. Bush favors expansion of this law as it comes up for renewal. He also supports the 9/11 Commission’s recommendations and has spent billions of dollars building security to fight domestic terrorism and has pushed for better integration of the intelligence community. Kerry: He has said he will make fulfilling the 9/11 Commission’s anti-terrorism blueprint a top priority. Kerry has a five-point plan for improving homeland security. Some of these points include: improving the country’s ability to track down terrorists; plugging security holes at airports, seaports and borders; providing better support for police, medical and fire department personnel; and revamping the Patriot Act to guard against what he sees as infringements on civil liberties.
– Information compiled by Amma Bofa
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10/20/2004 6:07:38 PM
Voter Apathy William Hung for President?
By Tayzha Fox The hot topic for many seniors is not who won the presidential debate or who is leading the polls, but what went down in the last episode of “One Tree Hill.”Voting seems like such a foreign task for some juniors and seniors that many ask themselves, “Why vote anyway?” Even though many upperclassmen are now at the golden age of opportunity to have a chance to vote and have a voice – many are foregoing this right in order to protest their views. Nearing the age of 18, senior Jenny Wiedel could not be persuaded to mark the ballot for the any candidate. She also believes that in the election’s overall result, she really has no say. “I won’t vote because I feel like my vote doesn’t count,” Wiedel said. She believes this because of some mishaps that occurred in the last election. Remember the chads? There were the pregnant chads, the hanging chads, and the dimpled chads. The Bush-Gore election of 2000 caused some widespread skepticism. Many of the votes were miscounted, and Wiedel fears that this may occur again. Eighteen-year-old Tom Alvord decided not to vote this coming election because he feels it’s simply too much work. “I don’t have enough knowledge about everyone who’s running and I don’t want to sacrifice my time to learn about them,” Alvord said. On the contrary, 17-year-old Tyler Davis claims he wouldn’t vote despite his knowledge on the candidates. “I don’t think that either of the candidates should go into office because they lied so much in the primary and in the Democratic and Republican conventions. Neither of the candidates are stable,” Davis said.
Students Speak Out:
8.6 24
million votes cast by 18-25 year olds in 2000’s presidential election million votes cast by 18-25 year olds during the third season of American Idol
particularly happy with it. So with Kerry you’re not guaranteed a better thing, but you get a chance with something different. SY – I would say I’m leaning more towards Bush, but I think that they both have really good qualities. … There are some things I like more that Kerry talks about, some things I like more that Bush talks about, but I think just the fact that I am so against abortion, for that reason I would say Bush, but then again it’s also not a good idea for me to vote based on that one specific thing. JW – Is there one deciding topic that makes you feel the way you do? FI – Abortion, gay marriage, I don’t know. JA – No, there isn’t really any decisive topic. I’m not really Democratic, not really Republican. … independent kind of. The answers they give most likely influence me, rather than the topics. JW – What, if anything, are you doing to influence the outcome of this election? SL – Usually, I don’t really go for one candidate when I talk to people. If they’re for Kerry, I try to argue the Bush side, and if they’re for Bush I argue the Kerry side, just to get people to open their mind more, because lots of times people will be influenced just by their parents and not really make their own opinions, so just getting people to vote and actually form their own ideas. JA – I don’t particularly volunteer towards “Oh choose Kerry, choose Bush.” I volunteer to just help getting people to vote, because voting really means a lot, rather than telling them to choose one candidate over another. DT – I don’t have a whole lot to do. I’m not of age to vote yet,
The The Death DeathPenalty: Penalty: Bush: The president oversaw 152 executions as governor of Texas, calling it an effective deterrent. He doesn’t think that the death penalty should be supported to seek revenge but rather because he believes it saves other people’s lives. Kerry: Kerry opposes the death penalty believing it is racially biased and flawed. He has sponsored legislation to halt federal executions.
Abortion: Abortion: Bush: Opposition to abortion (except in very narrow cases of rape, incest or threat to the woman’s life) is at the core of Bush’s “right-to-life” platform. He opposes funding international organizations involved in abortion as well as “partial-birth abortion,” which he calls a “brutal and violent practice.” He opposes school-based clinics that provide referrals or counseling for contraception and abortion. He supports legislation to extend 14th Amendment protections to unborn children. Kerry: Supports legal abortion and says he would not pick Supreme Court nominee justices who disagreed. Kerry voted against measures to outlaw intact dilation and extraction (partial-birth abortion) and has endorsed family planning and health insurance plans that provide abortion counseling and contraceptive coverage.
Education: Education: Bush: His administration created the No Child Left Behind Act, which pushes to improve elementary and secondary education by toughening standards for teachers, schools and student achievement. It demands accountability in exchange for federal funding going to K-12 public education. Bush has said that if reelected during his second term he will reform America’s high school’s and create new education reform. He would provide 250 million to states for assessment testing and promote literacy through the Reach Out and Read program. Federal spending on education has jumped nearly 50 percent since Bush took office. Kerry: Like Bush, Kerry believes every child should be held to high standards and that every school should have the resources to meet those standards. Kerry wants every classroom to have a great teacher and every student to graduate from high school. To do this his plan would establish a National Education Trust Fund to give schools the funding they need. It would ensure that the No Child Left Behind Act works by rewarding schools that meet higher standards and make improvements. The plan also offers better pay for teachers who work in troubled schools. Kerry would support after school programs with his “School’s Open Till Six” initiative. This program would offer after school opportunities to 3.5 million children. Kerry also has a plan to ensure that every young person who wants to go to college can afford it. He would offer a fully refundable College Opportunity Tax credit on up to $ 4,000 of tuition every year of college and offer aid to states to help keep tuition down. He opposes private-school vouchers.
Five students discuss their politics, Bush and Kerry, and what issues matter to them
JagWire – In what ways do you think the election will directly affect your life? Jon An, senior – Draft maybe? I’m 18 now so I don’t know, whoever is elected president may issue a draft or not. Gay marriage? David Treichel, junior – They talk a lot about education, so that will affect us directly. Faustine Im, senior – Well, abortion would do it for the women, but you know, personally I wouldn’t do it, I mean like I wouldn’t be pregnant for that to happen but for women around me, yeah … so that would kind of freak me out. Abortion is homicide. Summer Yates, sophomore – Yeah, well, the plans that they’re making like now, and the plans they’re talking about by the time that they get passed, we’ll be old enough so it will directly affect us. JW – Which of the candidates do you want to become president? DT – John Kerry, because he’s NOT George W. Bush. I don’t know, George Bush doesn’t seem like an intelligent person, and it doesn’t seem like he’s running the country, and I really don’t like his position on gay marriage … and the war in Iraq, I don’t like that. I don’t necessarily think that Kerry can fix all that, but I think that maybe he can do other things. FI – I want Bush because I am a Republican, I don’t like the whole gay marriage, I’m very conservative. And the whole thing about the war, I think that’s crap because no matter who gets picked, we’re still going to be in it. Like they can withdraw and everything, but that’ll still take time. Sheldon Lessard, senior – I’d personally go for Kerry because we’ve already seen what Bush does and I’m not really
Candidates on the Issues
Homosexual Issues: and lesbian issues: Bush: Has called for a constitutional amendment to ban same-sex marriages, saying there must be one uniform national standard immune to judicial reversal. He has not taken a firm position on civil unions, saying he would leave the issue up to the states.
Faustine Im, David Treichel, and Jon An share their ind ivi dua l vie ws abo ut politics and the election
Kerry: Opposes same-sex marriages but also opposes a constitutional amendment to ban them. He supports the recognition of civil unions in order to extend all federal benefits to same-sex couples. Kerry sponsored the Employment NonDiscrimination Act, which bans job discrimination against homosexuals.
Health care: Care: Health Bush: The number of Americans without health insurance has risen in his presidency, reaching nearly 44 million. President Bush has a plan that he says will reduce the cost of health care and provide affordable coverage to those who need it. The plan says it will open or expanded community and rural health centers, establish a tax-free Health Savings Account (HSA) and create Medicare Prescription Drug benefits as well as a new rule to lower prescription drug costs. Kerry: He has a plan that he says will provide affordable, high-quality coverage to those who need it. His plan entails giving the unemployed a 75 percent tax credit to help pay for insurance as well as tax credits for small businesses and their employees for health insurance.
I don’t really know many people who are of age to vote or who do vote, besides my parents, and they already have their opinions set, so I just try and follow what’s going on as best I can, and just know. FI – I like debating and clarifying. Like for the whole Bush thing, if someone has this wrong view on Bush in the debates or something, I like to clarify. I’m kind of like “Go for Bush” because I think that he’s a better candidate. SY – I wouldn’t try to make someone, because they both have really good qualities, and they both have really bad qualities, and whether or not it’s up to us, one of them is going to be in office, so trying to influence to actually vote and form their own opinions is better than not voting at all.
HomelandSecurity: Security: Homeland Bush: Bush has called homeland security his “most important job” and created the Department of Homeland Security. Bush supports the U.S. Patriot Act which he signed after 9/11 in order to give law enforcement better tools to fight terrorism. Under the Patriot Act the government is given certain powers which include attorney-client monitoring, immigrant registration and detention, and FBI guidelines governing investigations of religious and political groups. Bush favors expansion of this law as it comes up for renewal. He also supports the 9/11 Commission’s recommendations and has spent billions of dollars building security to fight domestic terrorism and has pushed for better integration of the intelligence community. Kerry: He has said he will make fulfilling the 9/11 Commission’s anti-terrorism blueprint a top priority. Kerry has a five-point plan for improving homeland security. Some of these points include: improving the country’s ability to track down terrorists; plugging security holes at airports, seaports and borders; providing better support for police, medical and fire department personnel; and revamping the Patriot Act to guard against what he sees as infringements on civil liberties.
– Information compiled by Amma Bofa
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10/20/2004 6:07:38 PM
Students answer freedom’s call By Katie Mathieson The presidential election is almost here, and once again, people are talking. In the past, teenagers, especially those too young to vote, have been ignored by politicians, and in turn, teenagers have ignored politicians. Not this time, however. This time, there’s something going on at Emerald Ridge to change the way teens think about politics. This plan is known as Freedom’s Answer, a nonpartisan, non-profit voter turnout campaign. This isn’t just at Emerald Ridge, however, it is a national program to get teens involved in the election, even if they’re too young to vote. With headquarters in Washington D.C. and divisions in every state, Freedom’s Answer is gaining attention nationwide. According to a mission statement from the founding students of Freedom’s Answer, “Many of us (students) are suspicious about politics because politicians don’t listen. We don’t listen because we think that we have no power. We’re changing that.” One program that Freedom’s Answer is emphasizing at Emerald Ridge and other high schools across the country is the Take Ten program. Participants take a form to have 10 people pledge to vote. Take Ten forms were passed out to advisories. The goal for this election is to get 2,500,000 Americans to each get 10 people to pledge to vote, raising the turnout by 25 million. Participants are encouraged to call their pledges on election eve to make sure that they remember to vote, or even accompany them to the polls if necessary. The Take Ten Program is off to a slow start so far at Emerald Ridge, as less than 20 forms had been returned as of mid-October. Not only is Freedom’s Answer trying to get more people to vote, but it is helping students be more aware of what is going on with the election. “Students need to educate themselves and know what they
want,” senior Cydney Anderson said. Anderson is one of the main students involved in Freedom’s Answer at Emerald Ridge. Smaller Learning Communities Coordinator Lisa Kusche, who is responsible for collecting Take Ten forms from students once they are filled out, thinks that the Take Ten program will help to educate students on the actual issues that have arisen in the debates this year. “Too often, students create caricatures of the candidates, instead of delving deeper into the issues and platforms,” Kusche said. She thinks that when kids talk to their pledges, they will get to see different opinions from their own, and become more educated about the other side of the political arguments. Freedom’s Answer’s first victory came in the 2002 mid-term elections when the national voter turnout record was broken by 2.8 million people. The turnout record also was broken in 27 separate states. This year, Freedom’s Answer has its sights set even higher. It wants to have 2,500,000 students participating, which is 1,500,000 more than 2002. Another goal is to have 10,000 schools participating instead the 2,500 schools that participated in 2002. There is also a book by a group of students who call themselves the Sept. 11 Generation about Freedom’s Answer, which was written by six students from different high schools around the country. The book outlines the points and purposes of Freedom’s Answer, along with some personal accounts of the aftermath of Sept. 11. In the book it states: “This book is about what answer freedom (and a million high school students who revere it) provided in the election of 2002 to the terrorism of 2001. Millions more will write the next chapter of Freedom’s Answer in 2004 – and re-write how our democracy works. That is our American Dream.” “Take the time, get involved,” Anderson said. “If you have the chance, why not take it?”
To learn more about Freedom’s Answer –www.FreedomsAnswer.net –E-mail the National coordinators at Students@FreedomsAnswer.org –E-mail Cassi Hunter (the State coordinator) at HommieC@hotmail.com
“Students need to educate themselves and know what they want.” –Cydney Anderson, senior
OTE With the presidential election on the horizon, JagWire takes a non-partisan look at the candidates, issues and what students are doing to affect its outcome “I won’t vote because I feel like my vote doesn’t count.” –Jenny Wiedel, senior
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10/20/2004 6:08:13 PM
10 FEATURE
JagWire
JagWire
Sudanese student moves to the United States to improve family life, experience his first movie, and continue vegging out at Jack in the Box
Spontaneous jokes, witty banter and odacious humor aew the perfect words to describe the often funny, often hilarious, and sometimes offensive teacher Matt White
BY
DREW SCOTT
REPORTER
Yousif Elwasila is not your usual high school junior. Unlike most students, Yousif was born and raised in another country. He just moved to the United States this summer with his family after spending seven years in Saudi Arabia. His story is both unique and inspiring. Elwasila’s journey began in Ummdurman, Sudan, where he grew up. He was born into a country ravaged by civil war, a country that still continues its struggle to this day. Peace is a distant dream for the people of Sudan – 27 years of war have destroyed it. Everything from the schools to the economy was ruined. “You learn to be thankful,” Elwasila said. He was fortunate to be at least somewhat out of the line of fire while in Sudan. “I was living in Northern Sudan, which at the time was safer than the south, where all of the killing and fighting was taking place,” he said. Life for many people in Sudan was an everyday struggle. There was insufficient food and inadequate shelter. “It was not a place of opportunity,” Elwasila said. That is why his father, a doctor, decided to move the family to Saudi Arabia, where their family was able to find some comfort. “The living situation was better,” Elwasila said. Life
I’M A FAN OF CONTROVERSY. I LIVE BY THE LOOPHOLE
”
was easier, his parents obtained jobs and he attended an all-boys international school. “I went to school with kids from all over the world – Kenya, Egypt, everywhere,” he said. Elwasila was able to make friends and live a happier life. On a visit to the United States however, his parents realized how much better off they could be. Like so many other people, they came to the United States for an improved life. Elwasila says that the biggest difference between Sudan, Saudi Arabia and the United States is freedom. “There was no freedom. It was not even safe to go out after dark in those countries – you could be killed. Here you can go out anytime,” Elwasila said. Most of Elwasila’s family, including his grandparents, still live in Sudan. He worries about them, but he also knows that they are in the safest part of the country – the capital, Khartoum. He hopes to see them again one day, but he says he would never go back to Sudan. “There is nothing there for me,” Elwasila said. “My future is here.” Elwasila believes he has a bright future. Living in the conditions he did made him realize how important his education was. He plans to stay in the United States and go to school at the University of Washington to study medicine and become an ear, nose and throat doctor. Elwasila – who goes by the name Joe at school because his classmates struggle with his given name – still is getting used to life in Puyallup, and for the most part he likes it. He loves Jack in the Box and can’t wait to go to his first movie. “The people are friendly and more open,” he said, “but
“Joe,” as Elwasila likes to be called, loves his life in Puyallup.
it sure rains a lot.” People might call him a survivor or an inspiration, but Elwasila says, “Just call me Joe.” It’s a typical American name for a unique kid who just wants to fit in and be accepted like everyone else.
Hypokritz expand this year with 5 new additions Once again, Emerald Ridge’s improv comedy troupe makes it their goal to split their audience’s sides BY
NICK KAJCA
REPORTER
Photo by Mikel Amrstrong
Matt White leads a busy life advising the Hypokritz , teaching AP Government and CWP, as well as a Pyschology class. “I believe it is my job to make any subject I teach fun and interesting,” he says.
Photo by Carissa Carter
“
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ANNA BOFA
REPORTER
Sometimes offensive but still hilarious: that’s the only way to describe teacher Matt White. His humor, although occasionally inappropriate, splits the sides of all his students as often as it offends them. White makes good use of his wit in everything school related. From CWP and AP Government to Psychology, from JV Girls Soccer at ERHS and Boys Soccer at PHS to Hypocritz, his spontaneous jokes are a constant in his life. But don’t think that means his students don’t learn anything educational. “We are just rehashing old presidential elections (in AP Government),” White said. “Seriously.” White has high standards for his classes, and while he does crack jokes and make people laugh, learning is the overall objective of his outragous comments. “I believe it’s my job to make any subject I teach fun and interesting,” White — Matt White said. Fun his lessons certainly are. “He makes the class fun to be in, especially for an AP class,” said Federico Gonzalez, a senior in White’s AP Government class. White says he’s always worked to make his classes enjoyable, even from his first years of teaching. How did he come to teach this way?“God made me this way.” Concerning the offensive side of White’s humor, it’s gotten him in trouble many times. His comments and actions often toe the fine line between what’s considered acceptable and what could cause a public outcry. For example, how would White react if he were a vice presidential candidate and Vice President Dick Cheney had admitted that he had never seen White before their first debate, as Cheney did to Sen. John Edwards? “Well, screw you sunshine – and that would end my political career,” White said. White has also gotten in trouble for his humor as advisor of The Hypocritz, a club that puts on skits for comedy. Last year, the Hypocritz decided to have a few players of the football team, clad in football gear, tackle a few of their members, padded only by pillows, for an assembly. One of The Hypocritz was hurt when she was tackled and her head hit the floor. Although it was an accident, White got some phone calls about it. White has also a simple explanation for his borderline humor: “I’m a fan of controversy. I live by the loophole,” White said. His students enjoy his humor anyway. “I like it because it’s what everyone is thinking but doesn’t have the guts to say,” senior Theresa Capestany said.
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Elwasila – just the average ‘Joe’
The Incredible Mister White BY
FEATURE
Another year of school has started and that means another year of comedy form the school’s own student-run comedy troupe, The Hypokritz. The group has just finished auditions and is now beginning to gear up for its first performance on Dec. 17. The Hypokritz added three sophomores and two juniors to replace the five vacancies left by graduated seniors. Paul Klein, Chase Wagner, and Kate Gruver make up the sophomores and Rachel Owens and Ryan McNamara make up the juniors. The audition process featured 25 students doing improv and telling funny stories in hopes of claiming a spot in the coveted group. The new members were chosen based on their ability to be humorous and their comfort level on stage. The
nine returning members hope the new members will help make The Hypokritz an overall stronger group. The idea to a start a student-run comedy troupe first came about four years ago by Scott Baxter and Amanda Christian as part of a senior project. Thanks to good support and success, their idea stuck and the group has formed each of the following years. Although The Hypokritz is a comedy troupe they offer a great opportunity for young actors. “The Hypokritz have made me a stronger performer and has made me more confident on stage,” said senior Nick Ferrucci, a three-year member of the group. Being student-run continues to be a key part of The Hypokritz. “One hundred percent of our material is student innovated,” said junior Amanda Pisetzner, a second-year member of the comedy group. “A week before each show Matt White reads over all our material,” Pisetzner said. White, a teacher at the school is the
group’s adviser and makes sure everything is appropriate. The group has never had any trouble with censorship. The group is starting to get excited as practices for the first show of the year are getting under way and thoughts could not be more positive. “This year’s group has the potential
to be even funnier then past groups,” Ferrucci said. The group is coming up with fresh and creative ideas to improve their improv for next year. “We have got some surprises and good things planned for the upcoming year,” Pisetzner said.
10/20/2004 6:07:05 PM
16
SPORTS
Doy speeds up football Running back sets records with an elusive speedy style, while helping the Jaguars get in playoff position BY CARISSA CARTER EDITORIAL BOARD
Inspiration causes many to strive for excellence. It comes from many places and affects everyone differently. For junior running back and cornerback Neko Doy, the inspiration that allows him to put forth his best effort comes from his father, Robert Doy. Neko’s father has been through many difficult times – Robert was in the Army and had a brain tumor that was supposed to hinder him from walking. Robert Doy had 95 percent of his brain tumor removed through surgery which allowed him to be able to walk again. “He’s really strong. I know I couldn’t walk around normal every day just knowing I could die,” Neko Doy said. Doy has been plenty strong on the football field. In the first game of the season, against Bethel, Doy set a school record of four touchdowns in one game. In a game that would end 44-39, the near upset of the state-ranked Braves shocked most people
FEATURE
JagWire
JagWire
and set the stage for the season. Doy then rushed for 194 yards against Rogers, leading the team to its second win of the season, 22-14. The team came back from a 14-12 deficit at half time to become the King of the Hill as Doy put the game away by scoring the last touchdown with roughly three minutes to go. Doy also led the team in its 17-13 homecoming victory against Decatur, which increased the team’s chances to go to the playoffs. Doy was nominated for the Puyallup Herald’s Player of the Week for Aug. 29 through Sept. 4, and was listed as one of the News Tribune’s top performers for his night against Rogers. While Doy appreciates it, he is also dedicated to the team. “It’s better for the team to win than to get the recognition,” Doy said. Still, by getting recognition, Doy must be doing something right. For the first time, the team has a chance at the playoffs if they win the remainder of their games. “He helps us in a couple of ways,” coach Kelly Susee said. “He brings speed into the backfield, and he is elusive.” Doy got started playing football in fourth grade when some neighbors pulled him out for a game. Back then he was a little timid. “I didn’t like getting hit because I was afraid to break something,” Doy said. Now, Doy enjoys the contact of football. “I like the contact because it’s the only sport where you can hurt someone,” Doy said. At 5 feet, 8 inches and 175 pounds, Doy is weightlifting five times a week to improve his game. “I think Neko is starting to mature as a player and a person, (and) the growth has been nice to see,” Susee said.
Students visit for new experiences and politics Exchange students matriculate to South Hill to learn, experience and enjoy the life of an American teenager ki
aka Ai T
Junior Neko Doy ran for four touchdowns in this season-opening game against Bethel.
Many of Doy’s teammates have complete faith in his skills and abilities. “He has the drive and won’t let himself fail,” said senior captain Brynsen Brown, who has watched Doy pick up the playmaking load as Brown rehabilitates his injured knee. According to Doy, the team is much more confident because of a new offense and because with the graduation of last year’s senior class, the previous negative attitude is gone. “I haven’t had the opportunity to be around such a small group but still feel good about what we’re doing,” Susee said. With 25 players on the varsity team, Susee says coaching is all worthwhile. The players’ confidence is partially due to the team’s new offense. “(The new offense) gets the ball in the air but still has rushing opportunities and balance,” Brown said. Susee feels there will always be room
09
Saya Komatsu
for improvement. “We need to find ways to simulate game situations and work better at practices and continue to get more bodies out there,” Susee said. The team is 4-3. “My goal for this team is to get better each week and after nine weeks see if we have a chance to keep playing (in the postseason),” Susee said. Doy has many activities outside of school besides football. He is on the track team where he runs the 100-meter and 200-meter dashes. Doy also is enrolled in graphic design and drawing classes. Doy plans on taking the skills he learns in high school football and applying them in college and hopefully someday the National Football League. “As a junior, Neko has shown he has some football talent … there is still too much time to tell what that will be,” Susee said.
i
gl e Fau Bent
BY
ANNA BOFA
REPORTER
For the last 40 years the United States has been said to be the most powerful country in the world. Everything it does is examined and every decision it makes affects the rest of the world, in some way or another. That includes who is voted President. Living in such a powerful country can make it easy to forget that other countries might see things differently. This year there are 10 exchange students representing six different countries who bring this differing world view: Amanda Fontana from Venezuela; Renate Ulbrich and Felix Weiss from Germany; Marcus Frietas and Rafisa Pousa from Brazil; Elide Gonzalez from Mexico; Saya Komatsu and Ai Takaki from Japan; Dong Woo Yoh from North Korea; and Bente Faugli from Norway. Interestingly enough, all of them agreed that their countries’ view of the United States is not that great. “People in Germany think Americans only care about themselves and that they waste many things,” Pousa said. The others agree that Americans and selfishness seem to go hand in hand. However, the biggest controversy to them and their respective countries is the war in Iraq. “I don’t like President Bush, because of Iraq and what he’s done to the people there,” Gonzalez said. The United States seemed to lose a lot of respect from people around the world when it decided to
go to war. “The fact that the United States went against the United Nations did not help the cause,” said Faugli. Although there are many issues and concerns surrounding the U.S. right now, the exchange students still say that this country has much to offer. “In (North) Korea, the (communist) government takes a lot and doesn’t leave much for the people,” Woo Yoh said. “There are too many problems to count.” Gonzalez said that despite the disagreements, Mexico still respects the United States. “I believe my country depends on the U.S.,” she said. Pousa still seems to have a soft spot for Bush – “It’s not good, the war in Iraq but he’s not so bad,” she said – but others still have strong feelings against Bush. “I would vote for Kerry,” Komatsu said. Counselor Mariano Leon-Guerrero said that having these 10 students at Emerald Ridge is invaluable. They can offer insight, and many things both great and small can be learned from them. “We have another opportunity to learn about other cultures through daily interactions and shared experience,” said Leon-Guerrero, who also is the adviser to the exchange students. The spotlight is on the United States right now and many people will be watching what goes on in this election. “People are fascinated with American politics,” said Frietas. Weiss also agrees with this. “Nowhere else is freedom of speech so celebrated,” he said. It can be said that the leader of the United States will be a world leader as well. “We want to portray and champion democracy,” Leon-Guerrero said.
Ra
fisa
Po u
sa
Amanda Fontana
Do
ng
W oo
Yo h
Injured senior captain Brynsen Brown looks on.
Starting wide receiver and defensive end Brynsen Brown injured his knee during a mid-week practice Sept. 28 bad enough to miss three games against Rogers, Thomas Jefferson, and Decatur, but may return tonight against Spanaway Lake. During a routine practice, Brown caught a pass and started to run. His foot slipped on the wet grass at an awkward angle, and
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then sophomore Nick Merrell tackled him, putting pressure on Brown’s knee. After getting several doctors’ opinions, it was determined Brown had partially torn his ACL and would be unable to play for the next three weeks at a minimum. “(The injury was) a fluke,” Brown said. “I would never have thought it would’ve happened to me.” Coach Kelly Susee believes there may have been a higher power at work. “The injury was very unlucky and was
driven by God trying to do something for Brown or the team,” said Susee, whose team has won all three games with Brown on the sidelines. “There’s been a genuine effort to become closer as a team and do things unselfishly after he got hurt,” Susee said. As for what is to come, Brown said his injury is easy to re-injure and the team has a good chance of going to playoffs if they win the remainder of their games. “I just hope I can be 100 percent so
that I can contribute,” Brown said. Brown also is on the wrestling team and has gone to Washington State MAT Classic XVI Championships in the 189pound weight class, placing second last season. Barring another injury, he should be ready to go for the beginning of the season. “If Brynsen ends up not being able to play at the beginning of the season, we have strong enough players to be competitive,” wrestling coach Jim Meyerhoff said.
Photos by Mikel Armstrong and Facets yearbook staff
EDITORIAL BOARD
Photo by Anna Bofa
Brown misses time with ACL injury; return imminent? BY CARISSA CARTER
Elide Gonzalez
eiss xW Feli
Ma
Renate Ulbrich
rcu s
Fri et
as
10/20/2004 6:08:47 PM
08
FEATURE
JagWire
JagWire
Girls volleyball has done well in past seasons, but this year’s hopes are for winning the state title
By Grant Woodruff The Daffodil Princess is a tradition that has its roots going as far back as 1926 when a prominent Sumner couple held an enormous party at their home. Since then the Daffodil pastime has evolved into a parade drawing large crowds from as far as Spokane. The Daffodil Princess/Queen tradition is relatively new, allowing 20 princesses from 20 different high schools to compete for Daffodil Queen. ERHS selected its princess Oct. 21 from among six senior girls, each of whom was escorted by an outstanding senior boy. This princess will compete against the 19 others for the title of Daffodil Queen. The Daffodil Queen is then selected by a panel of judges who score her on her academic ability, personality, attitude, speaking ability, appearance, sociability, content of her speech, festival awareness and impromptu speaking. Each of the 20 princesses will have to make a huge time commitment giving up every Saturday from now until March. The princesses are expected to attend many community events, including attending elementary schools, nursing homes, several parades, and even meet the governor. Here are the Emerald Ridge Daffodil Princess candidates. Due to the deadline date, the princess chosen on Thursday will be featured on getjagwired.com
“It’s an honor to even be selected,” Wellentin said. “I consider it a privilege and a great opportunity to meet new people. The other girls are all awesome. Whoever wins will honor our school.” Wellentin was escorted by Jon An and Nick Paterno
Allie Freeman “There’s so much to gain you might as well try,” Freeman said. She sees this competition as a great way to meet new people with similar interests, challenge herself, and help the community in a big way. Xander Knox escorted Freeman.
17
Setting sights to win state
Good flowers come in half dozens
Kristin Wellentin
SPORTS
BY
XANDER KNOX
EDITORAL BOARD
Emerald Ridge has had precious few success stories when it comes to athletics, but the volleyball team is setting its sights on reaching new highs at the state level. “I was really excited coming into this year because I knew we would do well,” senior Kelsi Bortoluzzi said. “We have a solid starting lineup, and players that are just as good to support off the bench.” That says something for a team that has placed in state every year since their second season, including a fourth place finish last year. “We only lost two seniors coming off of last year, so I knew coming into this season that we have real potential,” coach Tanya Campbell said. As of mid-October, the team was third in the South Puget Sound League South Division and is ranked fourth in the state. The only hitches on the season were losses to Spanaway Lake and Bethel, their main rivals in the league. “The game against Spanaway could have gone either way, and losing to them now just makes us want to beat them even more when we see them at districts or state,” Bortoluzzi said. Besides the losses, the team has placed in the top three in every weekend tournament since the beginning of the season. The Jaguars are looking forward to facing teams from other leagues in the state tournament on Nov. 5 and 6. “Aside from Spanaway Lake, we will
Katelyn Markham Markham has waited for the chance to be Daffodil Queen since she was a child. “This is a great opportunity to be a leader, role model, and really help the community,” Markham said. Adrian Ball was Markham’s escort.
Junior Emily Powell tries to add another point on the board during the long and intense match against Bethel. The Braves won in five sets.
have some tough competition at the state level. University and Mead from Spokane are both ranked higher than us, and will probably be our biggest rivals at the tournament,” Bortoluzzi said. Supporting the team this year are a number of returning seniors unmatched by any previous year. Anna and Amma Bofa, Lindsey Maxfield, Ashley Brodie, Taryn Cartledge, Mikela Kiely, and Bortoluzzi make up the seven players who will be graduating at the end of the year. “The seniors are doing a good job of sharing responsibility. They are focused on playing together and competing against the rest of league as opposed to each
other,” Campbell said. Assisting Bortoluzzi in her leadership duties are senior captain Anna Bofa and floor captain junior Kylie Marshall. Bofa, Marshall, and Bortoluzzi, all returning players from last year, have been major contributors to the team’s inspirational well-being, according to Campbell. The number of seniors isn’t the only thing responsible for the success of the team. Behind those seniors are several key players that have helped the girls get this far. Along with Marshall, who played for the U.S. Junior National Team over the
summer, juniors Emily Neiblas and Emily Powell have stepped from swing positions last year to full-time varsity this year. “I think (next year) will be tough, but we have a really talented group of juniors who have supported varsity this year,” Powell said. With the pending loss of all the seniors after this year, the pressure is on to return to state this year and make it three-forthree for those graduating. “I am really confident about our chances in districts and beyond. I’m excited to get to state and play teams we haven’t seen since last year,” Bortoluzzi said.
Girls golf secures their first SPSL championship
24-08,17.indd 2-3
“This is a great opportunity to represent our school and work with other people towards a common goal,” Anderson said. She believes it will give her good skills to go out into the world with and that it will be a fun opportunity. Aaron Orheim was escorting Anderson.
Shanon Christian “This is a great opportunity for all of us to learn a lot of valuable skills while at the same time helping our community,” Christian said. “Daffodil Princess is an excellent chance for us to earn money for college and help other people at the same time.” Christian’s escort was Brandon Myking
BY
KAITLYN GOLDEN
REPORTER Photo by Mikel Armstrong
Capestany wants the opportunity to branch out in the community and help others. “Daffodil Princess is a great way of meeting new friends and learning important skills like public speaking and how to carry yourself,” Capestany said. Capestany was escorted by Mikel Armstrong.
Cydney Anderson
Photo by James Stanford
Theresa Capestany
Varsity and junior varsity combine for 19-1 mark, making a 180-degree turnaround for last season
The girls golf team has turned around last year’s 1-9 season into a 9-1 record this year to become the SPSL champs. “This year, we’ve played very well as a team, and we just have more experience all throughout the team,” coach Jim Meyerhoff said.
Captain Cydney Anderson agrees. “All our girls are really talented, and our season has really reflected that because we are SPSL champs,” Anderson said. One factor that has contributed to the girl’s golf team’s excellent season is that they have the largest team in the league. “We have 16 girls out, which is the biggest turnout ever, and makes us the largest team in the league. Rogers has 15 girls, but we don’t have any beginners,” Meyerhoff said. The team definitely has depth, as the junior varsity went 10-0 and eight or
nine different girls that played varsity throughout the season. In a golf match, there are six people that play varsity and six people that play JV. The one and two girls from each school play against each other, the three and four girls play against each other and same for the five and six. “We won our matches through our depth,” Meyerhoff said, “Our five and six girls were stronger than everyone else’s. Some schools only had five girls out, and their last few would be beginners.” That depth was useful during the district tournament, which was held on Oct.
19-20, where the varsity six competed. State for golf is not until June 1 because it is a split season and some places in the state do not have golf until the spring. Things look bright for next year, as well. “We are a very young and talented team with a lot of potential to accomplish great things through the next couple years,” No. 2 golfer Kristin Rasmussen added.
For the latest girls golf district results, visit http://gojags.org
10/20/2004 6:06:16 PM
18 SPORTS
JagWire
JagWire
Lunch division detrimental to Emerald Ridge unity
Jag Nation back after absence Step team makes a comeback after difficulties last year BY
“
WE DON’T ARGUE LIKE THE OTHER GIRLS DID, WE STICK TOGETHER
JENNIFER WHITHAM
REPORTER
Sophomore Jasmine Walden practices for pep assembly.
There is a step dance team once again. There wasn’t one last year and many students wanted to get the team started up again. The result: Jag Nation returning for another try. In years past, there had been problems concerning the group, which led to the team falling apart, and now there is no prediction as to how successful the group will be this year. Tryouts were held earlier this year and out of the 12 girls who tried out, only six were chosen. With that behind them, next comes lots of practice. The girls have been practicing Monday through Thursday all over, from the upper gym to the lower gym to the YMCA. In 2003-2004, there was no team at all. Previously, there have been issues regarding a step team because of disagreement between its past members. Another reason there was
no team was because there was no one to coach the group. However, Assistant Principal Jeannine Medvedich is coaching the team this year and has confidence in the girls abilities. “The team this year is nothing like the old one, it isn’t the same, we even have a new team name to go along with it,” Medvedich said. Medvedich’s duties as an assistant principal have limited her time spent with the new group called Jag Nation during practice. “The girls have just taken it upon themselves to practice, because I can’t always be there,” Medvedich said. Being adviser of Jag Nation, Medvedich’s responsibilities include helping guide and direct the girls as much as she can. Along with a new coach, there
T
his September brought many changes to the Ridge – a new batch of sophomores, several new staff members (including a new principal), and, most importantly, a new schedule. The 2004-2005 schedule differs from years previous in several major ways. The number of Jag Times has been cut in half and a new, all school reading time has been implemented. Despite these large and controversial issues, our main concern is the system that is currently being used to separate the school into two lunches. In Emerald Ridge’s past, as well as at other schools we have attended, lunch has been determined by factors such as the last name of a student’s adviser or teacher last name, floor level or even which subject he or she is taking. The current system at Emerald Ridge is to separate students based on grade level. The sophomores have one lunch, the seniors another. The juniors are split between. We believe that this method of division has several major flaws. By separating the student body along class lines, we are doing what could become irreparable damage to the Emerald Ridge community. This system ensures that incoming sophomores will never have the privilege of meeting their most upper of classmen. This also creates a school where our seniors cannot hope to benefit from the diverse backgrounds and experiences brought by the class of 2007. The junior class gets split between. The advantages of such a system, as far as we can tell, are mainly logistical. If all the seniors have the same lunch then it will be easier to plan senior class meetings. The same goes for sophomores. Also, it might now be simpler to regulate Jag Times, which we understand is always an issue. We do not want it to seem like we are discrediting these benefits. We acknowledge that they are important. But it seems that this is a situation where the pros are greatly outweighed by the cons. We should not sacrifice
”
—Ishae Gainous, capitain
are two new Jag Nation captains, Chelsea Mayfield and Ishae Gainous. “I think it will be good because we don’t argue like everyone said the other girls did, we stick together,” Gainous said. Other members include Jasmine Walden, Sara Stuckie, Lexi Havsy, and Crystal Nelson. The first performance was during a pep assembly last month, and there were some problems that occurred. Some of the girls stopped because something happened to the music. “If we use music again, we will bring our own box so we know it will work,” Gainous said. And they did. At the Homecoming assembly on Oct. 15, the performance went off without a hitch, and they left the floor to a rousing ovation.
“
BY SEPARATING ... ALONG CLASS LINES, WE ARE DOING WHAT COULD BECOME IRREPARABLE DAMAGE.
Girls soccer vying for first ever spot in playoffs As the fall season draws to a close, hopes run high for a first-ever postseason berth BY
XANDER KNOX
EDITORIAL BOARD
24-18,07.indd 2-3
“
THERE IS LESS INDIVIDUALISM; WHEN WE PLAY WELL, WE JUST COME TOGETHER AND PLAY AS A TEAM
”
— Kates Ginther, senior
ries to key players. Sophomore Elizabeth Degrenier pulled a hamstring putting her out for three to four weeks at the beginning of the season, senior Rachel Malinen is out for the rest of the season with a dislocated jaw, and sophomore Donisha Calhoun broke her ankle, putting her out for an indefinite amount of time. These, plus a handful of other minor injuries, have added up to be another obstacle that could be a burden going into the last third of the season. The girls began league play on Sept. 30 with a surprise upset of Curtis. Junior goalkeeper Jen Brumbaugh played a particularly stellar game, highlighted by blocking a penalty kick during the second half. Brumbaugh has had some big shoes
to fill with the graduation of last year’s keeper, Bridget Schramm, and has done admirably in the face of a number of tough opponents. “I feel like the team is supporting me, and it’s really great to have that in this new position,” Brumbaugh said. Providing support for the team this year has been the inspiration of captains Cornier and senior Amber Stokes. According to both captains, the enthusiasm of the girls has been a major part in the success of the team thus far. With all of this, a berth in postseason play is far from assured. “Senior play has been good, giving the younger girls something to build off of. Their making the best of their third year,” Stueckle said.
THE FINE PRINT
Emerald Ridge High School 12405 184th St. E. South Hill, WA 98374 | 253-435-6300
Photo by Jessica Ritchie
The girls soccer team is in the running for a spot in the postseason, a feat not yet accomplished by the program. “We really want to win this year,” senior captain Monique Cornier said. “We work hard, and it’s showing in our position in league right now.” A big part of the team’s success is an abundance of new faces. Christina Brownlee and Jill Jensen are new additions who have become staples in the team’s lineup. Also new to the team this year is senior Kates Ginther, who transferred from Bellarmine Prep at semester last year and has made a significant contribution as well. “I expected things to be different, coming from last year when Bellarmine took second in the state,” Ginther said. “It is different, but not in the way I thought it would be. There is less individualism;
when we play well, we just come together and play as a team.” Jensen and Ginther play club soccer for FC Royals, one of the best girls’ teams in the state. These and other state level players give coach Dan Stueckle a breadth of experienced talent to pick from. “The new girls have helped create an atmosphere of confidence for everyone, adding to all we have from years past,” Stueckle said. A major recurring obstacle that the girls have faced is a breakdown of focus and drive in practice. “We play like we practice,” Cornier said. “We lose focus at practice, we don’t do as well in the following game. We just need to keep our heads in it and put everything we have on the field if we want to make the postseason.” According to Ginther, they just need to get used to individual playing styles. “We need to get to know each other and how we all play. Playing with each other and keeping up the fight will be key to our success,” Ginther said. Throughout the year another kink in the season has been a handful of inju-
the unity of Emerald Ridge as a whole for convenience, especially if these problems can be solved in other ways. Class assemblies and meetings have always been managed. The sophomores did not all have the same lunch last year and they still elected class officers. We think you will find the student body very flexible when a special circumstance requires a change in schedule. The ease of the current system should not dictate with whom students associate, and, in my opinion, pales when compared to a unified Emerald Ridge. Over this past summer, numerous hours were spent training and educating students in the field of school leadership, specifically utilizing the Link Crew program. At Jag Crew Camp one of the main topics covered was school unity. The Link Crew, Advisory, and Advisory Family programs speak directly to this. We believe that through these programs we are doing a fantastic job trying to involve all students in making ERHS the most caring, welcoming, and united place that it can be. However, the current lunch divisions seem to be in direct opposition to any progress made. We preach togetherness, then we separate. We know that this hypocrisy is not intentional, and that is all the more reason it warrants extra attention. Emerald Ridge has always been the type of school that values students and community above all else. We have never before backed down when things looked hard. We have faced challenges and done things that no one thought possible. We encourage the administration to uphold that tradition, for it is one of the few we have. Rethink the division of lunches. Do not sever bonds before they are made. Emerald Ridge’s students have so much to teach each other. Please do not limit the reach of these lessons.
LETTERS POLICY Jagwire will accept unsolicited copy from students, staff and community members. Only signed and dated letters with address and phone number from community members, or grade level from students, will be accepted. Letters must be limited to 300 words and will be published as space is available. All letters are the sole opinion of the writers, and the staff reserves the right to edit any letter for space and/or clarity. We will not publish material that may substantially disrupt the school process. Letters to the editor may be submitted by mailing them to
”
OP/ED
07
Have an opinion you want to express? WRITE A LETTER TO THE EDITOR! Submit entries to Mr. Nusser in room E157
STAFF EDITORIAL BOARD ..............................................CARISSA CARTER ....................................................................................... XANDER KNOX ................................................................................ LINDSEY MAXFIELD ...........................................................................................TYLER QUINN ................................................................................... JAMES STANFORD DESIGN EDITOR ...............................................MIKEL ARMSTRONG PHOTOGRAPHY EDITOR .....................................ERICA BOSNICK REPORTERS ...................................................................... AMMA BOFA .............................................................................................. ANNA BOFA ...............................................................................................LISSY BRYAN ......................................................................................EMILY CAETANO .............................................................................................. MATT CLICK ........................................................................................ MARLEAH FEIST ............................................................................................. TAYZHA FOX ................................................................................ BRITTANY GENTILE .................................................................................. KAITLYN GOLDEN ...........................................................................................KASSIE GREEN .............................................................................................. NICK KAJCA ..............................................................................KATINA MATHIESON ................................................................................LAUREN OBREGON ..................................................................................ELAINE RAYMOND .......................................................................................JESSICA RITCHIE ........................................................................................... DREW SCOTT ........................................................................................ROBIN STOYLES .............................................................................. KRISTIN WELLENTIN .............................................................................. JENNIFER WHITHAM .............................................................................. GRANT WOODRUFF BUSINESS MANAGER ...................................... LINDSEY MAXFIELD ADVISER .............................................................................. JEFF NUSSER AFFILIATES
CSPA, JEA, NSPA, SPJ, WJEA, WSJA
This editorial is composed by, and is the opinion of, the JagWire editorial board.
Jagwire c/o Emerald Ridge High School, or by e-mailing them to jagwired03@hotmail.com. EDITORIAL MISSION As JagWire enters its fifth year, our goal is to first and foremost continue to serve as an open public forum for student expression. JagWire strives to remain a quality, hard-hitting, informative, and entertaining communication link between students, faculty, and the Emerald Ridge community. Our publication will tackle issues that impact our readers and raise awareness while maintaining the highest journalistic standards. JagWire will keep the values of an award-winning newsmagazine by creating a viewpoint that is unique to ourselves and our school, while recognizing the accomplishments and events that require our coverage.
Our mission is to continue learning, to constantly work on self-improvement, and always bear a reflective eye towards our work. We will make an effort to represent ERHS and the surrounding community, while also providing a publication in which to take pride. ADVERTISING MISSION The Jagwire publication staff accepts advertisements for most products and services available to the public. However, the staff reserves the right to reject, edit or cancel any advertisement that the staff deems offensive in light of normal public standards. Ads identifying students as athletes by photo or text (WIAA 18.20.0 and 18.20.1) also will not be accepted. The staff will not accept advertising for products or groups which are racist, sexist or illegal for high school students.
10/20/2004 6:09:08 PM
06 NEWS
JagWire
New schedule creates controversy The new schedule was intended to establish consistency, but for some it caused more chaos than stability BY
AMMA BOFA
REPORTER
With every new school year comes change, and one of the biggest changes this year is the new schedule. According to Principal Brian Lowney, the reason for this change was that at the end of last year there was a huge outcry from teachers to do something to have a new schedule. Some of the biggest reasons for the change were lack of consistency and lunch time management. The schedule this year has several dif-
ferent components. Wednesdays are blue days (all six periods), Mondays and Thursdays are green days (periods one, three, and five) and Tuesdays and Thursdays are silver days (periods two, four, and six). “One of the things that was hard for teachers and students last year was not knowing and not having classes on the same days,” teacher Cindy Watters said. “Having six period Wednesdays helps teachers because now they are getting three planning periods a week and students are guaranteed to go to each class three times a week.” It works better for certain classes such as music and math and it was the only thing that worked for the running start students. Jag Time also has changed this year. It is now only two times a week
and ER @ ER (Everyone Reads at Emerald Ridge) is now on Mondays and Fridays. Advisory is in the middle block between Jag Time and lunch on those days. Two concerns by the student body for the split lunches include the conflict of club meetings and the divide of sophomores, juniors and seniors, which could impede school-wide unity. Sophomores now have lunch before advisory and seniors after, meaning the junior class is divided up. Another new aspect of this years schedule is ER @ ER. “(ER @ ER) is an in-school reading program to increase the amount of time students are reading,” Watters said. “One of the school-wide learning improvement goals was to increase reading. There is a
direct correlation between the amount of time students spend reading and success in school.” As for the split in the lunches, Lowney said, “It is easier to manage; you know who is supposed to be where.” Other reasons for the lunch split include scheduling of class meetings and, according to Watters, so sophomores can develop a sense of community and identity. “We can’t be afraid to try new things,” Lowney said. Furthermore, there are still changes in the works. A Jag Time student advisory has been created to help add student opinion and ideas. “It is by no means a perfect schedule but it’s the best we could come up with at the moment,” Watters said.
CURT L0CKARD
JagWire
SPORTS
19
CROSS COUNTRY
STATS:
–Goal this year: To do well at state competition –5-kilometer personal best: 16 minutes, 46 seconds –2003 SPSL meet finish: 62
What has been your motivation this year? Meeting my goals and the support of the whole rest of the team while I run
What are your plans after high school? Run at a four year college around the Northwest
Senior streaker livens up rivalry football game Senior Payton Foutz streaked during halftime of the ER vs. Rogers football game as Rogers homecoming royalty proceeded past the stands BY
LISSY BRYAN
REPORTER
During the football game against Rogers on Oct. 1, many people watching the halftime show were stunned to see a green, nearly naked male running onto the football field. Covered in green paint and wearing only a paper sack on his head and a jock strap was senior cross country runner Payton Foutz.
Despite punishment rumors that bordered on ridiculous, Foutz was suspended for three days as a result, and can no longer direct the pep band during football games and school assemblies. The reason he chose to streak remains unclear. “It is my last year in high school and I wanted to do something that people would remember me and my sense of humor by,” Foutz said. Foutz started out by running out of the bathroom. He continued through the gates to get onto and across the field at Sparks Stadium, then jumped two high fences, leading him outside of the stadium. After this, he immediately left the area in his car. As a cross country runner, Foutz had the skills to get away. However, cross country coach Gary Osbourne, on
the sidelines filming for video productions, recognized Foutz because of the way that he runs. When Foutz was not at school the following Monday, students started making assumptions and creating rumors about his punishment. Rumors included his being kicked off the cross country team, getting arrested, going to the hospital, and not being allowed to attend homecoming. In reality, Foutz showed back up to school after three days of suspension. He is still on the cross country team, attending high school, and he did not experience being handcuffed or hospitalized from this event. “When I got back to school only three days later, people were shocked to see me, especially when I told them the rumors were not true,” Foutz said.
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Which professional athlete inspires you? Steve Prefontaine’s will to win is inspiring to me
What qualities do you admire in any athlete? Respect and humility are both really important in a good athlete
What do you see as your biggest obstacle? Keeping my head in the run and to overcome the mental will to stop
ATHLETE OF THE MONTH 10/20/2004 6:05:46 PM
20 SPORTS
JagWire
JagWire
Spirits soar at Emerald Ridge
NEWS
05
Traffic drives students crazy
Top: Senior Aaron Orheim cheers the football team on to a 17-13 victory at the homecoming game against Decatur. Left: Senior Corey Leiferman and Jake the Jaguar participate in homecoming halftime festivities. Bottom: Seniors Shannon Christian, Heather Logan, and Brandon Myking look on at the during the homecoming game
ER proves that a winning team must be supported by spirited a fanbase BY
LISSY BRYAN
REPORTER
24-20,05.indd 2-3
ing that our school had little to no spirit, Bates felt that the Jag Jacket was needed. It gives seniors the opportunity to wear a jacket that everyone will remember, while cheering in front of the whole school. “Wearing the jacket gives you an awesome feeling because it’s a senior thing and I feel really good because I finally made it and I get to lead everyone in the cheer,” said House, who wore the Jag Jacket at the back to school pep assembly and first football game. Having school spirit in the stands is one thing, and having school spirit in the classroom, according to Lowney, is even better.
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Between 7:15 a.m. and 7:30 a.m., over 200 vehicles and 17 buses are on their way to Emerald Ridge, the traffic is keeping our buses from being on time to elementary school and junior high stops.
Traffic problems at ERHS are holding up junior highs and elementary schools elsewhere in the district BY
LAUREN OBREGON
REPORTER
Photos by Mikel Armstrong
As the cheerleaders rah and the football players roar, this year it’s the school spirit in the stands taking Emerald Ridge by surprise. While watching from the sidelines, senior cheerleader Dani Castino is amazed at the improvement of our school spirit. “It’s great how the crowd is so hyped up,” she said. “It’s allowing the football team to play even better.” Assisstant football coach Matt Mueller said that the added spirit helps the football team.
“It is easier to play when we know that people support us,” he said. “It makes the game more fun.” The new principal has even noticed a change in the way Jags act. “Since I taught here when the school started, the football games, Jag Crew, and the students themselves have all been more spirited and they also show the respect we have for our school,” Principal Brian Lowney said. When Jaguars attend the games, they notice quite a difference between the Emerald Ridge side and the opposing team. “Our school is way more advanced in our spirit. At volleyball games, the Rogers crowd just sits down. They’re not loud. We are way more rambunctious,” senior Brian House said. With the new year, came new spirit. Sophomores are joining in with the cheers, all classes are dressing up for spirit days, and more students are attending athletic events. “Every year our spirit improves, but with our football team’s improvement and the new leadership of our school, everyone has outstanding spirit because it gives us something more to cheer about,” Castino said. The Jag Jacket cheer, Rock the Mullet, and Rocking the House are all cheers that our school is known for. Students stand in the crowd and cheer along. The Jag Jacket was created the second year of school by teacher Jay Bates. See-
“School spirit allows students to have fun, which gives them a better attitude while in the classroom. It gives students a willingness to learn and do better,” Lowney said. In the eyes of a students, school spirit really is better in the classroom. “When I’m having a good time, it helps me want to focus and learn more,” Castino said. House thinks that although our school is improving, there is still a lot room for more students to join in. “Even if we’re losing, when it comes to spirit, students need to get out of their comfort zone because it makes things more fun and interesting for the crowd,” House said.
Emerald Ridge has been thinking of solutions to the traffic problem. Before and after school, both cars and buses alike have been delayed for an extended period of time. The traffic is not only affecting Emerald Ridge, but holding up junior high and elementary schools as well. “The business superintendent rode the bus the first day of school, and every school was 20 minutes late because of our traffic,” Principal Brian Lowney said. Steps have been taken to start solving
the problem. On Sept. 27, a meeting took place to discuss how to solve the traffic issue. People present were Lowney, Director of Transportation Henry Hammond, Director of Facilities Rudy Fyles, Pierce County Sheriff Deputy Andy Findley, and security guard Rick Burnley. “The problem is, we’re mixing 17 buses with about 200-some cars and trying to fit them out through a narrow passage,” Hammond said. Another concern is with the new housing developments. The buses and students are competing not only with each other, but now with the people who live Deer Ridge, leaving for work in the mornings and coming home after school. “In the future we are looking at around 200 homes to be built up the hill in front of Emerald Ridge,” Fyles said. The 200 more homes will mean a lot more traffic,
however by then there should be more roads built, allowing cars to come and go without a problem. Deputy Findley proposed an idea to alter the intersection to let traffic flow more freely. The revision would include changing the northbound left lane into a free left and the eastbound right lane into a free right. The stop sign would be removed from the corner on the right and moved to the left corner. There also would be a stop sign at the entrance of Deer Ridge for people leaving the development. One major problem is that when the buses go to leave out the second gate, cars are going out the same way, creating a gridlock. To solve this, the buses have started picking students up on the east side of the school allowing them to get out onto the main road more easily. Other concerns are students trying to
cross the street to get to and from school. There is the possibility for students to be hit by a car, especially when drivers speed past the long line of traffic and through the intersection to make a U-turn. The idea to put up a cross walk was suggested so students could cross from the development to school. “There is possibility (if crosswalks are put up) for serious litigation,” Fyles said. “People get too comfortable and walk into the street without looking.” The city requires a certain volume of traffic to flow through the area before a stoplight can be erected. In the future there will be a stoplight put up there, but until then, students will have to make do with a few small changes. “There is no such thing as a quick fix, but it’s a step in the right direction,” Lowney said.
Activities coordinator accepts job in the Northshore District BY
KRISTIN WELLENTIN
REPORTER
Students walking into English teacher Sharyn Mehner’s classes on the first day of school were given a rude awakening. Other teachers were covering her classes and she was nowhere to be found. Mehner left Emerald Ridge shortly before school started to take a new job in the Northshore School District as a technology facilitator. There, she helps teachers use technology more effectively in their classrooms. “Ms. Mehner had an incredible oppor-
tunity up north as a technology facilitator,” said Principal Brian Lowney, “We will definitely miss (her).” Mehner was a part of many organizations at Emerald Ridge. She was an English teacher, student adviser, co-adviser of “Facets,” the school yearbook. She was also activities coordinator and leadership teacher. Her absence left many holes to be filled in the master schedule. Repeated attempts to contact Mehner for comment have been unsucessful. Replacing Mehner as activities coordinator is choir teacher Rob Dennis. It is
his first year in a student leadership role, and he is very excited about it. “It’s work I love doing for schools,” Dennis said. “Students really enjoy doing it, and I like working with them in that capacity.” Assisting Dennis is English teacher Pam Kinkela, who previously worked at Rogers as an activities coordinator. She brings 30 years of experience in school leadership to her position. Kinkela has taken over the leadership class. She was a last-minute addition, but was delighted to help.
“I was happy to step in when Lowney approached me for the position,” Kinkela said. Many students are happy about the change in teachers. “This class is 100 percent more productive and I’ve done more this year so far than last year,” senior Heather Logan said. She was enrolled in last year’s leadership class as well as this one. In order to cover Mehner’s other classes and compensate for over-enrollment, new staff was hired and the school bought out many teacher’s planning periods.
10/20/2004 6:09:30 PM
04
NEWS
JagWire
JagWire
Class sizes an issue
Water polo working hard in new league
Wheels on the bus start slowing down
Boys water polo struggles in its first year as an officially sanctioned sport.
School buses not always running late is affecting students and all the schools with runs previous to here. BY
BY KAITLYN REPORTER
BRITTANY GENTILE
REPORTER
Cindy Watters’ and Brandi Groce’s third period Honors American Studies class has to fight to find a desk or a seat because of overcrowding.
There is a large problem with classes being packed to unreasonable numbers BY
ELAINE RAYMOND
REPORTER
Large class sizes have become a major area of concern for students and teachers, as more students enrolled this year than were projected. This year’s projected amount was 1,350 students, but in reality, Emerald Ridge had 1,385 students at the end of the four-day count. Four-day counting is the way attendance is taken the first four days of school. This is how to determine the official enrollment. Every year professional companies are hired to create an estimate of the number of students expected to enroll the coming school year.
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being forced to teach subjects unusual to them. “The only one is a new Activities Coordinator,” Lowney said. Choir teacher Rob Dennis will be taking over as Activities Coordinator for this year. American Studies and Leadership teacher Sharyn Mehner vacated the position shortly before the beginning of the school year. This is not an unwelcome change for Dennis. He chose to take this position and had, in fact, wanted this job for a while. “I have always enjoyed working with students in things that they really enjoy, and my new position will give me even more opportunities to get involved,” Dennis said. “I’m excited about the energy and enthusiasm that everyone has for our school and I hope that I can help the students make ERHS a better place for everyone.” Although many changes have been made as an attempt to improve the situation, some still feel that there are problems. “I think it is hard for everyone to learn,” sophomore Kalie McGinnis said. She is one of 48 students in a crowded American Studies class. Although the class has since received the relief of teacher Brandi Groce, who is now team teaching the class with Cindy Watters, the class has remained large. “I think was can learn more when there is more personal attention,” McGinnis said about personal help.
The boys water polo team had a tough beginning, but kept on working to finish their season strong. “So far we’ve played a lot of dominant teams, but I’m confident we’re going to be able to turn it around,” coach Ed Meier said early in the season. Assistant coach Zach Bregal agrees. “We’re off to a rocky start, but we’re expecting to step it up a lot more,” Bregal said. At the halfway point in their season, the team had only won one game through a forfeit. Last year, the team made it to districts, but this year they are in a league for the first time. In the past, the team has gone through USA Water Polo, and was considered a club. This year, they are classified as an actual varsity sport with ASB funding. The league consists of seven different teams, but none of the teams from the King County area are involved. This will be a good thing for the team because some of the stronger teams like Mercer Island, Bellevue, and Mark Morris are not in their league. This year, the team’s main goal is to make it into districts. Both Meier and team captain Brandon Myking are confident that they will make it there. “I am hoping to make it, and I really think we can do it,” Myking said. Meier agreed, saying, “With the standings we are at right now, we won’t make it, but I think the team is beginning to see that they are capable of doing well, and I am confident they will be able to make it to the league tournament.” This is Meier’s second year coaching the water polo team. “As a second-year coach I have tried to make changes to my coaching ability to better it. This year, we’ve been doing
“
Photo by Robin Stoyles
Sophomore Jason Trapp sits deskless.
A number of different strategies have been employed by Principal Brian Lowney to alleviate the unusually large class sizes. In one attempt to reduce numbers in large classes, smaller elective classes have been cut. By getting rid of smaller classes, those teachers are available to teach other classes, allowing larger classes to be reduced in size. A choir class of 18 students was collapsed to create space in the significantly larger classes such as an American Studies with Honors class of 48 students. “It feels awful,” Lowney said of cutting the classes. However, Lowney feels that comfortably sized core classes, such as math, social studies and language arts, are more important than lightly populated elective courses. Because of the great amount of students attending, new teachers have been hired and classes have been shuffled. The school even bought out several teachers’ planning periods, paying them to teach during what would otherwise be their planning period. These teachers include Loni Thoreson, Mark Miller, Gary Hibbs, Jacquelyn Ferry, Tracie Shepard and David Rosdahl. James Crawford was hired to teach English part time here and part time at Rogers; in order to accommodate his hiring, teachers in the English department have traded entire classes. Math teachers also have had to switch several classes. Still, Lowney said no teachers are
Buses are supposed to drop off their students between 7:15 and 7:25 a.m., but lately some students are being dropped off closer to 7:40 a.m., causing some students to miss attendance and be late to class. The bus drivers cannot choose their own routes to take. The transportation chooses them. They cannot decide on what route they take themselves because in case something happens the transportation knows exactly where to find the bus. This causes a problem because of rush hour traffic on Meridian and how busy it is in the morning. The traffic around ERHS is another reason the buses are late. “All the junior high and high schools are 20 minutes late because of our traffic,” Principal Brian Lowney said. The turn lane to get into the school is so backed up it takes about ten more minutes to get into the school parking lot. Some people think that the buses should be allowed in the parking lot first. “They need to let the buses go first so that we could get in faster,” said Michelle Simons, a student who rides Bus Run 9. She feels, along with other students, that it is not fair to be late to class almost every day. Sometimes, odd circumstances make the buses late as well. During the second week of school, Bus Run 9 was on its way to drop off the Stahl Junior High kids. An eighth grade girl was riding her bike to school for the first time. She was on the sidewalk when she lost her balance and fell into the street. At that moment the bus came by and hit the front tire of the bike. “ I (was) relieved that she wasn’t hurt,” bus driver Charlotte Margo said. “I saw her ahead of time. She was so upset that she wanted to leave the scene.” Her parents, the principal, and the police came and spoke with the girl and Margo about what went on. “They always do when a bus is involved, always,” Margo said. “Especially when a bike’s involved.”
GOLDEN
Despite injuries, cross country is running towards a strong finish. BY
”
— Zach Bregal, assistant coach
it,” Armstrong said. Armstrong announced that he was quitting before the team’s game against Puyallup High School on Sept. 30. “I had been re-evaluating my role on the team for several weeks,” Armstrong said. “It was a tough decision, but I feel I made the best decision for me and the team.” Armstrong says he still plans to be there for his former teammates. “I wish the team the best of luck with the rest of the season. I’ll still be there to support them,” Armstrong said. Even with a challenging early season, the team maintains an optimistic attitude about the rest of this season but has its eyes on the future.
“We’re training for this year, but still working towards a good season next year at the same time,” said Meier.
21
Cross country sets sights on state
a lot more swimming to get the boys more in shape so they are able to go for an entire game,” Meier said. If it was swimmers Meier wanted, then he got plenty of them this season. “When the guys on the water polo team went into the swim season, they recruited a lot of guys from swimming to join the water polo team,” Meier said. There is one drawback to having a lot of swimmers on the water polo team. “We have a lot of beginners and it’s tough to teach new swimmers the game,” Myking said. However, this combined with many new sophomores cause some difficulties. “We have a big sophomore and freshman class coming up, and a very young team,” Bregal said. Another event causing trouble for the water polo team is that senior cocaptain Mikel Armstrong quit the team halfway through the season. “I quit because I couldn’t put my whole heart into it and it felt unfair to people who would have played with more passion than I was putting into
WE’RE OFF TO A ROCKY START, BUT WE’RE EXPECTING TO STEP IT UP.
SPORTS
LAUREN OBREGON
REPORTER
Cross country runs into action this year heading in the right direction. “Nearly everyone on the team has improved,” assistant coach Gary Osborne said. The No. 1 male runner this year is senior Curt Lockard; the top female runner is junior Kaitlyn Golden. “Both Curt and Kaitlyn have a good shot at going to state,” Osborne said. To qualify for state, runners must first place in the top 40 at the league meet to qualify for the district meet, and then place in the top 40 again at the district meet. The league meet was Oct. 20 at Spanaway Lake Park, the district meet is Oct. 30 at Spanaway Golf Course, and the state meet is Nov. 6 in at Sun Willows Golf Course in Pasco. Those runners who do not make districts will run in the non-qualifiers meet on Oct. 26 at Roegner Park in Auburn. “Our year is going pretty well. We
didn’t expect to have a really good girls team this year, but a lot of girls have been stepping up. We have a chance at taking our team to districts,” Golden said. Some of the girls that could help take the team to districts are juniors Tayzha Fox and Rose Velasquez, and sophomore Claire Groo. “We have a very young team, with no seniors running varsity, so we’ll have a good team for the next couple of years,” Golden said. As for the boys, they, too, have a chance to carry their team to districts. Lockard and senior Rick Bogatay are the team’s strong one-two finishers. “Both Rick and Curt definitely have a chance at going to state. I’d be surprised if they didn’t qualify,” Golden said. Injuries have been hurting the teams, however. Both Orval McKenzie and Velasquez have been suffering from bad knees and more people are dealing with injuries. “It’s been tough with people hurt, but we’re hoping they’ll all get better, so we can finish our season on a high note,” Golden said.
Girls swim makes districts BY
MARLEAH FEIST
REPORTER
The girls swim team will participate in districts on Oct. 29 at Rogers High School because of their fifth place finish at the Autumn Relays in September. “It’s always an honor to go to districts,” said senior Bailey Kuestermeyer, who also qualified for state during her first meet. “I’ve gone the past three years, which is really fun, and each year it’s exciting, you know, you get the new freshmen coming in and it’s cool.” The swimmers still will have an opportunity at districts to qualify for state, which will be held Nov. 12 and 13 at the King County Aquatics Center in Federal Way. Jen Schmitz, one of the coaches, said that her goals for this season were to go undefeated and bring as many individuals and swimmers to districts and state as she can. The girls lost to Decatur in their third meet, however they fought hard in their fourth meet against Bethel and were victorious. “A really big goal for me is to get swimming out there and let people know that
we have a good swim team,” Kuestermeyer said. Schmitz agrees that the team is close and that the girls are really into each other. “Our team is like a big family,” senior Sara Condra said. “I love everyone, and we get along really well.” Junior Alicia Uecker thinks that the team is fun: “We’re all very supportive of each other – like a big family of sisters.” Jun ior Angela Collier is impressed with the team this year. “Everyone is really nice, and supportive,” she said. “The team is getting better every year. We have a lot more depth this year; it’s not just a few fast people any more.” For those who are looking to join girl’s swim next year, be prepared. Uecker and Collier agree that it takes an incredible amount of passion, hard work and commitment to join the team. “It’s fun though,” Kuestermeyer said. “You make a lot of friends, and our coach is awesome. It’s nice not to be around boys because you can just be stupid girls and be really gross … and just have fun as girls.”
10/20/2004 6:05:05 PM
A&E
JagWire
JagWire
Don’t catch this ‘Taxi’ “ New flick starring Fallon and Latifah offers nothing new to viewers in the cop buddy comedy genre BY
MATT CLICK
REPORTER
“Taxi” is the comedic tale of a fearless New York taxi driver and a clumsy NYPD detective who are forced to team up in order to solve a series of mysterious bank robberies in Queens. Jimmy Fallon plays Detective Andy Washburn, a desperate cop trying to prove himself after several failed cases. Queen Latifah, an Academy Award nominee for her role in “Chicago,” plays Belle Williams, the craziest, most reckless cab driver in New York. When Washburn’s license is suspended, he must count on Belle to get him where he needs to go. The film is a remake of a 1998 French
Here’s a look at a few movies you caught or still need to see. from the big dogs to the little guy. BY
MATT CLICK
REPORTER
For many high school students, summer is the season for movies. Some of the year’s biggest films are released during the warm months, and this past summer was no exception. In fact, according to Box Office Guru, this summer yielded many top grossing films. “Spiderman 2,” “Shrek 2,” “Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban,” and “The Day After Tomorrow” all made the list of top films this summer movie season. “Shrek 2” earned over $436 million, ranking it among such movies as “Titanic” and “Star Wars” as one of the highest grossing films in movie history. Also making the top grossing list were “The Bourne Supremacy,” “I, Robot,” “Troy,” and “Van Helsing.” Michael Moore’s political satire “Fahrenheit 9/11” proved that controversy sells by raking in more than $119 million in theater sales. As for disappointments, there was no shortage. “Catwoman” was pelted with aw-
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REVIEW
film by the same name, which became the highest grossing movie in French film history. The film is produced by Luc Besson, who directed the original, and directed by Tim Story (“Barbershop”). “Taxi” goes a little something like this: Bad guys show up, car chase, bad guys escape, comedic scene, bad guys appear again, car chase, bad guys escape, comedic scene, bad guys rob another bank, car chase, bad guys escape, so on and so forth. Are you starting to see a pattern here? “Taxi” is predictable from the getgo, and all will recognize the “unlikely police duo” formula. Granted, “Taxi” has its laughs. Fallon, whose antics were made famous on TV’s “Saturday Night Live,” is hilarious and perfectly cast in his role of the clumsy
ful early reviews and received a mediocre opening weekend. The medieval epic “King Arthur” made little more than a third of its production cost. Also among the flops were “The Thunderbirds” and, not surprisingly, “Superbabies: Baby Geniuses 2.” Of course, all of those titles probably ring a bell. But, what about the best films you didn’t see? Several flicks took moviegoers by surprise this summer. “Napoleon Dynamite” is a prime example. The film was a Sundance Film Festival favorite among critics, gaining praise as “the little guy” of summer flicks. An odd-yet-hilarious tale of a nerdy high school student, “Napoleon Dynamite” was produced for a mere $400,000 and grossed over $19 million during its four month reign of the obscure movie throne. The film has gained a cult following, including a 50,000-member fan club. The shark tale “Open Water,” which was produced for relative pocket-change ($130,000) and shot with a digital camcorder, earned $14.5 million over the course of its four-week release. It also gained all-around critical praise; Roger Ebert of the Chicago Sun-Times called it “the best shark-attack movie since Jaws.” Zach Braff, the star of TV’s “Scrubs,” tried his hand at directing this summer
Principal Brian Lowney returns after three years at Rogers and feels like this is where he belongs
IT’S NOT ORIGINAL OR UNIQUE IN ANY WAY; IT’S THE SAME BUDDY COP COMEDY WE’VE SEEN A MILLION TIMES BEFORE IN MOVIES LIKE ‘TURNER AND HOOTCH.’
”
police officer. However, after an hour or so, the same jokes keep popping up. In fact, it seemed as though the film was about half an hour too long and had begun to recycle itself. And as we all know too well, a lame joke gets less funny every time it’s told. Queen Latifah doesn’t live up to her Oscar-nominated expectations. Her character has some funny bits, but for the most part, she’s Fallon’s straight man. Latifah is an up and coming actress, but she’s not going to get anywhere with
movies like “Taxi.” The car chases are well choreographed, with good stunt-work all around. But, after about the third car chase, I was getting a little bored. Not much else can be said about “Taxi.” It’s not original or unique in any way; it’s the same buddy cop comedy we’ve seen a million times before in movies like “Turner and Hootch” and “Starsky and Hutch.” But, the laughs seem to keep this struggling ship afloat, and I’d say it’s worth a rent when it comes out on video.
with the strange romance of “Garden State,” which tells the story of a man lost in life who returns home for the first time in years. The film’s limited release has brought in $8 million, more than three times its meager production cost.
This summer was not lacking in top grossing films, nor was it short on flops and obscure artsy films that few bothered to see. But this summer also proved to many that even the little guy can achieve great things, especially if they have the skills.
BY
KASSIE GREEN
REPORTER
When former principal Casey Cox left last year, the school needed a new principal. This year, Brian Lowney has stepped up to the plate and is doing his best. Lowney was here for the opening of this school more than four years ago. “It felt special to open with the school,” he said. “My grandfather was there for the opening of Rogers and I remember thinking this school wasn’t very ready for the first year, but my grandfather told me at Rogers they had to teach a class out of a bus. I figured we were better off than some after hearing that.” Lowney believes that he is home. “I truly think I have the best job in the world,” he said. “This school just fits me best. When I come here I feel like I am home.” Lowney was picked out of many applicants from both in and out of state by a committee of students and staff. Asking an arranged set of questions, talking informally with each candidate, and taking tour of the building. “We really just wanted to get a feel for the candidate and his qualifications,” committee member Amanda Pisetzner, a junior, said. Pisetzner believes the committee chose the right person.
Fine Photography
McCutcheon’s Studio
BY
ROBIN STOYLES
REPORTER
Just ask Laura!
Located next to the Liberty Theatre
03
“I truly think we picked the right person for the job and I am extremely happy with the decision,” Pisetzner said. “I do know he is a huge fan of student voice and is more than willing to listen to student opinions and take them into consideration. He’s a great guy.” Lowney has set priorities that he has deemed appropriate for a principal of a high school. At the top of this list is his
family. “My family will always be my first priority,” he said. “Every principal that I have assisted has said that it is important to put family first. While some of them haven’t followed their own principles, I strongly believe that is the right thing to do.” Lowney has a wife, Christel. They have two children, a 1-year-old daughter, Cal-
lie, and a 4-year-old son, Colin. His wife is a third grade teacher at Woodland Elementary. Lowney would really like to get to know a lot of students at this school. “It is very rare to see me in my office. I am always out looking around talking,” he said. “I even have a sophomore advisory.”
Meet Mr. Lowney Full name: Brian Michael Lowney Parent’s names: Susan and John Lowney Kid’s names: Colin & Callie Wife’s name: Christel Born: Lakewood, Wash. Birthday: 3/31/71 Favorite T.V. Show: “Seinfeld” Favorite color: Green Favorite animal: Sharks Dog: Tanner Height: 6’0” Favorite book: “Love in the Time of Cholera” Person he most admires: Wife, Christel Favorite Food: Thai Favorite super hero: Batman Beyond (Colin’s Halloween costume this year) Other country he would like to live in: China and/or Japan Principal Lowney takes a few minutes of his time to band together with students for the camera.
New schedule causes anger for some students The replacement of Jag Time with ER at ER, has caused strong negative feelings amongst students.
120 West Main Ave. Puyallup, Washington 98371 253-845-2101
NEWS
New principal feels at home
Photo by Mikel Armstrong
22
With the new schedule this year came many students that were displeased with the changes. “I don’t really like it because I don’t like not having Jag on all the days,” junior Maranda Sprague said. It seems that almost every student doesn’t like the reduction of Jag Time. “That kind of sucks,” senior Ashley Walton said, “because I always have homework and if I need help on a test or
miss something then I can’t get help.” Junior T.J. Libra also thinks it creates a lack of time for homework. “I like my independent work time,” Libra said. “I like to sit down and do lots of homework in school and two Jag Times just isn’t allowing me to finish what I would like to finish in school.” Senior James Knight agreed, saying,”I wish I had more time to work on stuff than two times a week.” A few students are pleased with parts of this change. “I like the new schedule because I like the reading time,” senior Ashley Walton said. It seems about half of the students talked to like Everybody Reads (ER). “I like it because I like to read,” Libra
said. Some disagree and don’t care for this addition. “I really don’t like being forced to read,” Sprague said. “The people who want to read are going to read. It’s not like you have to read, you can just sit there and sleep.” junior Brett Pullen said. The majority of students also do not seem to care for the separation of lunches. “It’s pretty lame because it’s not mixing everyone together,” Libra said. “By mixing everyone together it makes it comfortable in different age groups.” Not only juniors dislike the separation at lunches. “I have some junior and senior friends
and would like to have time to talk to them,” sophomore Mike Maye said. Senior Ryan Joyner agreed, saying, “It’s kind of not as cool because senior year I’d like to know everyone in the school.” Many students also are unhappy about having all six classes on Wednesdays. “I don’t like Wednesdays at all,” Pullen said. “You get a lot of homework on Tuesday nights to get ready for Wednesday.” Joyner agrees with Pullen. ”Wednesdays suck,” Joyner said. “I hate all six classes because you got all six classes and the next day the homework is all due.” Overall, most students seem displeased. “It is crap, I hate it,” Knight said.
10/20/2004 6:15:56 PM
INSIDE
Visit the JagWire online at www.getjagwired.com
JagWire
10.22.04
Emily – The singer has a really good voice and I like how the sound varies – not all the songs sound the same. I really like their style; both their lyrics and music are really good.
Emily
11
Caetano Yellowcard Ocean Ave.
Kajca
Grant – I’m really sick of hearing Ocean Ave., so I was kind of hating them before I heard their other stuff. I was suprised how much I do like some of their other songs.
Nick – I don’t think they sound very unique. I can’t tell a difference between them and any of the other punk rock bands that are popular.
Tim McGraw
Brittany – I like Tim. He’s cool. I’ve always been a fan of country, and Tim McGraw has always been one of my favorites.
Grant – I actually don’t like most of the songs on this CD, but the few that I do like make it worth the money.
Nick – I decided to give country a chance and it was a mistake. I don’t like this music and all of the songs sound the same. I will never be a fan.
Elections 12
Emily – I think you like country or you don’t. Tim McGraw is definitely my favorite.
Roundtable Discussion Students weigh in with their views on key election issues
s l a s u D d i v i our C d n I F Four
Grant – I love this CD. I’m a huge Blink fan. You can say what you want about them “selling out,” but you should focus more on the music itself. This is Blink’s best CD.
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Brittany – I like them. They have a cool punk rock feel, which is good. I like how their singer sounds original.
Greatest Hits
Nick
The November presidential elections are just around the corner. To address this, JagWire takes a comprehensive look at the issues and the people surrounding what could be one of the most controversial elections in American history.
23
A&E
08 | Daffodil Festival
The student population has only been larger once than this year, while staff and building sizes stay relatively the same. JagWire studies the problems created by this discrepancy.
Meet the senior ladies who ran for Daffodil Princess. Find out how the Daffodil competition came into existence and how it has changed since its inception in 1926 as a dinner party.
Nick – This is a classic CD. Their music is unique with their use of humor and relatable issues. Blink will always be one of my favorites.
Grant Blink-182 ink-182 Woodruff Bli
Emily – How can you not laugh when you hear them? Their music rocks and they’re really funny.
Enema off th the St State t
10 | Teacher Feature
17 | Girls Volleyball
Social Studies teacher Matt White is a school legend. His escapades inspire troublemakers and rule-followers alike. A look at the lesser-known side of White.
The girls volleyball team has had a successful season, going 11-2 in season play. The Jags look to the postseason, hoping to finish on a positive note.
The Beautiful Letdown
Gentile Switchfoot Brittany Photo by Mikel Armstrong
04 | Overcrowded Classes
Brittany – Blink-182 isn’t my type of music. I think it is sssooo stupid! They are lame and you barely understand what the heck they are saying!
Nick – I like this. You can rock out to it or just sit back and enjoy.
Brittany – I like it. It has a rock sound and a cool type of different feel. Plus, the guys in the band are cute!
Emily – I love Switchfoot. It’s not very complex, but the music is catchy and they have a good sound.
Grant – I like their positive Christian message, but only when I’m in the right mood. It can get old pretty fast.
10/20/2004 6:03:08 PM
concerts
Steven Curtis Chapman KeyArena Oct. 28 $23-$50.50
Seattle Comedy Festival Various Seattle Clubs Oc. 21-24 $27-$47
Coheed and Cambria The Premier Oct. 30 $17
De La Soul The Showbox Nov. 15 $18
Death Cab for Cutie Paramount Theatre Nov. 9 $20
Green Day with New Found Glory Everett Events Center Nov. 16 $29
Toby Keith Tacoma Dome Nov. 13 $20
theatre
theatre
concerts
AN OPEN FORUM FOR STUDENT EXPRESSION
Seattle Mens Chorus McCaw Hall Nov. 1 $15-$55
Smucker’s Stars On Ice KeyArena Nov. 8 $25-$95
Little Shop of Horrors Paramount Theatre Nov. 5 $25-$59
David Copperfield Paramount Theatre Nov. 13-14 $14.25-$53.25
REM McCaw Hall Nov. 19 $39.50-$75
Disney’s Lion King National Tour Paramount Theatre Nov. 31 $22.50-$125
Vanessa Carlton Crocodile Cafe November 20 $15
on the south sound
The Beat Nightmare at the Center KUBE 93 Haunted House Seattle Center Southcenter Mall Daily Fridays-Saturdays and the 31 in October www.varietyhauntedhouse.com 206-494-2868 $10-$15 $10
seasonal
seasonal
Giving you the low down
WIld Waves/Enchanted Village Fright Fest Federal Way Weekends in October 253-661-8001 $29.99 House of Terror Auburn Supermall Weekends in October www.supermall.com $10
Haunted Woods Buckley Weekends in October 253-862-2848 $10
OTE EMERALD RIDGE HIGH SCHOOL
12405 184TH ST E SOUTH HILL, WA 98374
VOLUME FIVE ISSUE ONE OCTOBER 2004
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10/20/2004 6:10:43 PM