JagWire | Volume 5 | Issue 4 | Feb. 4, 2005 by JagWire

THE BEATTAEB EHT GIvINg yOu The LOW dOWN ON The SOuTh SOuNd dNuOS hTuOS ehT NO NWOd WOL ehT uOy gNIvIG

SeasonallanosaeS Lunar New Year 2005 Union St. Great Hall Feb. 12 12-6 p.m. Free Close up in Black: African-American Film Posters Wash. State History Museum Through April 4 $5-$7

MoviesseivoM

ConcertsstrecnoC

Boogeyman Rated: PG-13 Starring: Barry Watson, Lucy Lawless

Interpol Paramount Feb. 11 $20

The Wedding Date Rated: PG-13 Starring: Debra Messing, Dermot Mulroney

Ashlee Simpson Paramount Feb. 24 $37 O.A.R. Moore Theatre March 3 $25

Super Sharks Point Defiance Zoo Feb. 20 $4-$7.75

Matchbook Romance El Corazon (Formerly Graceland) Feb. 10 $13

TheatreertaehT Singinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; in the Rain 5th Avenue Theatre Feb. 12 - March 5 $16-$58 Meshuggah Nuns Tacoma Musical Playhouse Feb. 25 - March 20 $14-$21

SportsstropS

The Complete Works of William Shakespeare Abridged Seattle Public Theater Feb. 3 - 27 $12-$20

UW Husky Mens Basketball Bank of America Arena vs. UCLA Feb. 5 $10-$23

Seattle Sonics KeyArena $10-$149

Flogging Molly El Corazon (Formerly Graceland) Feb. 11-12 $20-$22 Vendetta Red Hells Kitchen Feb. 19 $8 Hot Hot Heat Neumos Feb. 21 $13

Black White As i a n - A m e r i c a n N o r t h Korean Russian Native-American European-American Mexican Chinese South American Indian Other Filipino African- American Italian German Japanese Spanish Greek Australian Taiwanese American-Indian Latino Canadian Arabic Jewish Belgian Bahrainian British Haitian South Korean Columbian Native Alaskan Sudanese Cuban French Dutch American Puerto Rican Irish Honduran Caucasian Uzbekistani Pakistani Norwegian Polish Portuguese South-African Scottish Swedish Syrian Turkish Venezuelan Hispanic Egyptian Native-Hawaiian Pacific Islander Eastern-European Prussian Afrikaan Israeli Asian-Indian Jamaican Samoan Australian-Aborigine North American Asia- American Black White North Korean Russian Native-American European-American Mexican Chinese South American Indian Other Filipino African-American Italian German Japanese Spanish Greek Australian Taiwanese American-Indian Latino Canadian Arabic Jewish Belgian Bahrainian British Haitian South Korean Columbian Native Alaskan Sudanese Cuban French Dutch-American Puerto Rican Irish Honduran Caucasian Uzbekistanis Pakistani Norwegian Polish Portuguese South African Scottish Swedish Syrian Turkish Venezuelan Hispanic Egyptian Native-Hawaiian Pacific Islander Eastern-European Prussian Afrikaan Israeli Asian-Indian Jamaican Samoan Australian-Aborigine North American Asian-American Black White North Korean Russian Native-American European-American Mexican Chinese South American Indian Other Filipino African-American Italian German Japanese Spanish Greek Australian Taiwanese American-Indian Latino Canadian Arabic Jewish Belgian Bahrainian British Haitian South Korean Columbian Native Alaskan Sudanese Race French Dutch -American Puerto Rican Irish Honduran Caucasian Uzbekistanis Pakistani Norwegian Polish Portuguese South African Scottish Swedish Syrian Turkish Venezuelan Hispanic Egyptian Native-Hawaiian Pacific Islander Eastern-European Prussian Afrikaan Israeli Asian-Indian Jamaican Samoan AustralianAborigine North American Asian-American Black White North Korean Russian Native-American European-American Mexican Chinese South American-Indian Other Filipino African American Italian German Japanese Spanish Greek Australian Taiwanese American-Indian Latino Canadian Arabic Jewish Belgian Bahrainian British Haitian South Korean Columbian Native Alaskan Sudanese Cuban French Dutch -American Puerto Rican Irish Honduran Caucasian Uzbekistanis Pakistani Norwegian Polish Portuguese South African Scottish Swedish Syrian Turkish Venezuelan Hispanic Egyptian Native-Hawaiian Pacific Islander Eastern European Prussian Afrikaan Israeli Asian-Indian Jamaican Samoan Australian-Aborigine North American Asian-American Black White North Korean Russian Native-American European-American Mexican Chinese South American Indian Other Filipino African-American Italian German Japanese Spanish Greek Australian Taiwanese American-Indian Latino Canadian Arabic Jewish Belgian Bahrainian British Haitian South Korean Columbian Native Alaskan Sudanese Cuban French Dutch American Puerto Rican Irish Honduran Caucasian Uzbekistanis Pakistani Norwegian Polish Portuguese South African Scottish Swedish Syrian Turkish Venezuelan Hispanic Egyptian Native-Hawaiian Pacific Islander Eastern European Prussian Afrikaan Israeli Asian-Indian Jamaican Samoan Australian-Aborigine North American Asian-American Black White North Korean Russian Native-American European-American Mexican Chinese South American-Indian Other Filipino African-American Italian German Japanese Spanish Greek Australian Taiwanese American-Indian Latino Canadian Arabic Jewish Belgian Bahrainian British Haitian South Korean Columbian Native Alaskan Sudanese Cuban French Dutch- American Puerto Rican Irish Honduran Caucasian Uzbekistanis Pakistani Norwegian Polish Portuguese South-African Scottish Swedish Syrian Turkish Venezuelan Hispanic Egyptian Native-Hawaiian Pacific Islander Eastern-European Prussian Afrikaan Israeli Asian-Indian Jamaican Samoan Australian-Aborigine North American Asian-American Black White North Korean Russian Native-American European-American Mexican Chinese South American Indian Other Filipino African-American Italian German Japanese Spanish Greek Australian Taiwanese American-Indian Latino Canadian Arabic Jewish Belgian Bahrainian British Haitian South Korean Columbian Native Alaskan Sudanese Cuban French Dutch-American Puerto Rican Irish Honduran Caucasian Uzbekistanis Pakistani Norwegian Polish Portuguese South African Scottish Swedish Syrian Turkish Venezuelan Hispanic Egyptian Native-Hawaiian Pacific Islander EasternEuropean Prussian Afrikaan Israeli Asian Indian Jamaican Samoan Australian-Aborigine North American Asian-American Black White North Korean Russian Native American European-American Mexican Chinese South American -Indian Other Filipino African-American Italian German Japanese Spanish Greek Australian Taiwanese American-Indian Latino Canadian Arabic Jewish Belgian Bahrainian British Haitian South Korean Columbian Native Alaskan Sudanese Cuban French Dutch-American Puerto Rican Irish Honduran Caucasian Uzbekistanis Pakistani Norwegian Polish Portuguese South African Scottish Swedish Syrian Turkish Venezuelan Hispanic Egyptian Native-Hawaiian Pacific Islander Eastern-European Prussian Afrikaan Israeli Asian-Indian Jamaican Samoan Australian-Aborigine North American Asian-American Black White North Korean Russian Native American European-American Mexican Chinese South American Indian Other Filipino African-American Italian German Japanese Spanish Greek Australian Taiwanese American-Indian Latino Canadian Arabic Jewish Belgian Bahrainian British Haitian South Korean Columbian Native Alaskan Sudanese Cuban French Dutch-American Puerto Rican Irish Honduran Caucasian Uzbekistanis Pakistani Norwegian Polish Portuguese South African Scottish Swedish Syrian Turkish Venezuelan Hispanic Egyptian Native-Hawaiian Pacific Islander Eastern-European Prussian Afrikaan Israeli Asian Indian Jamaican Samoan Australian-Aborigine North American Asian-American Black White North Korean Russian Native American European American Mexican Chinese South American Indian Other Filipino African-American Italian German Japanese Spanish Greek Australian Taiwanese American-Indian Latino Canadian Arabic Jewish Belgian Bahrainian British Haitian South Korean Columbian Native Alaskan Sudanese Cuban French Dutch-American Puerto Rican Irish Honduran Caucasian Uzbekistanis Pakistani Norwegian Polish Portuguese South African Scottish Swedish Syrian Turkish Venezuelan Hispanic Egyptian NativeHawaiian Pacific Islander EasternEuropean Prussian Afrikaan Israeli Asian-Indian Jamaican Samoan AustralianAborigine North American Asian-American Black White North Korean Russian Native American European-American Mexican Chinese South American Indian Other Filipino African-American Italian German Japanese Spanish Greek Australian Taiwanese American-Indian Latino Canadian Arabic Jewish Belgian Bahrainian British Haitian South Korean Columbian Native Alaskan Sudanese Cuban French Dutch-American Puerto Rican Irish Honduran Caucasian Uzbekistanis Pakistani Norwegian Polish Portuguese South African Scottish Swedish Syrian Turkish Venezuelan Hispanic Egyptian Native-Hawaiian Pacific Islander Eastern-European Prussian Afrikaan Israeli Asian-Indian Jamaican Samoan Australian-Aborigine North American Asian-American Black White North Korean Russian Native-American European-American Mexican Chinese South American Indian Other Filipino African-American Italian German Japanese Spanish Greek Australian Taiwanese American-Indian Latino Canadian Arabic Jewish Belgian Bahrainian British Haitian South Korean Columbian Native Alaskan Sudanese Cuban French DutchAmerican Puerto Rican Irish Honduran Caucasian Uzbekistanis Pakistani Norwegian Polish Portuguese South African Scottish Swedish Syrian Turkish Venezuelan Hispanic Egyptian Native-Hawaiian Pacific Islander EasternEuropean Prussian Afrikaan Israeli Asian-Indian Jamaican Samoan Australian-Aborigine North American AsianAmerican Black White North Korean Russian Native-American European-American Mexican Chinese South American -Indian Other Filipino African-American Italian German Japanese Spanish Greek Australian Taiwanese American-Indian Latino Canadian Arabic Jewish Belgian Bahrainian British Haitian South Korean Columbian Native Alaskan Sudanese Cuban French Dutch-American Puerto Rican Irish Honduran Caucasian Uzbekistanis Pakistani Norwegian Polish Portuguese South African Scottish Swedish Syrian Turkish Venezuelan Hispanic Egyptian Native-Hawaiian Pacific Islander Eastern-European Prussian Afrikaan Israeli Asian-Indian Jamaican Samoan Australian-Aborigine North American Asian-American Black White North Korean Russian Native-American European-American Mexican Chinese South American Indian Other Filipino African-American Italian German Japanese Spanish Greek Australian Taiwanese American-Indian Latino Canadian Arabic Jewish Belgian Bahrainian British Haitian South Korean Columbian Native Alaskan Sudanese Cuban French Dutch-American Puerto Rican Irish Honduran Caucasian Uzbekistanis Pakistani Norwegian Polish Portuguese South African Scottish Swedish Syrian Turkish Venezuelan Hispanic Egyptian Native Hawaiian Pacific Islander Eastern-European Prussian Afrikaan Israeli Asian-Indian Jamaican Samoan Australian-Aborigine North American Asian-American Black White North Korean Russian Native American European-American Mexican Chinese South American Indian Other Filipino African-American Italian German Japanese Spanish Greek Australian Taiwanese America- Indian Latino Canadian Arabic Jewish Belgian Bahrainian British Haitian South Korean Columbian Native Alaskan Sudanese Cuban French Dutch-American Puerto Rican Irish Honduran Caucasian Uzbekistanis Pakistani Norwegian Polish Portuguese South African Scottish Swedish Syrian Turkish Venezuelan Hispanic Egyptian Native Hawaiian Pacific Islander Eastern-European Prussian Afrikaan Israeli Asian-Indian Jamaican Samoan Australian-Aborigine North American Asian-American Black White North Korean Russian Native-American European-American Mexican Chinese South American- Indian Other Filipino African-American Italian German Japanese Spanish Greek Australian Taiwanese American-Indian Latino Canadian Arabic Jewish Belgian Bahrainian British Haitian South Korean Columbian Native Alaskan Sudanese Cuban French Dutch-American Puerto Rican Irish Honduran Caucasian Uzbekistanis Pakistani Norwegian Polish Portuguese South African Scottish Swedish Syrian Turkish Venezuelan Hispanic Egyptian Native Hawaiian Pacific Islander Eastern-European Prussian Afrikaan Israeli Asian-Indian Jamaican Samoan Australian-Aborigine North American Asian-American Black White North Korean Russian Native-American European-American Mexican Chinese South American-Indian Other Filipino African-American Italian German Japanese Spanish Greek Australian Taiwanese American-Indian Latino Canadian Arabic Jewish Belgian Bahrainian British Haitian South Korean Columbian Native Alaskan Sudanese Cuban French Dutch-American Puerto Rican Irish Honduran Caucasian Uzbekistanis Pakistani Norwegian Polish Portuguese South African Scottish Swedish Syrian Turkish Venezuelan Hispanic Egyptian Native Hawaiian Pacific Islander Eastern-European Prussian Afrikaan Israeli Asian-Indian Jamaican Samoan Australian-Aborigine North American Asian-American Black White North Korean Russian Native American European-American Mexican Chinese South American- Indian Other Filipino African-American Italian German Japanese Spanish Greek Australian Taiwanese American-Indian Latino Canadian Arabic Jewish Belgian Bahrainian British Haitian South Korean Columbian Native Alaskan Sudanese Cuban French Dutch-American Puerto Rican Irish Honduran Caucasian Uzbekistanis Pakistani Norwegian Polish Portuguese South African Scottish Swedish Syrian Turkish Venezuelan Hispanic Egyptian Native Hawaiian Pacific Islander Eastern-European Prussian Afrikaan Israeli Asian-Indian Jamaican Samoan Australian-Aborigine North American Asian-American Black White North Korean Russian Native-American Europea- American Mexican Chinese South American Indian Other Filipino African-American Italian German Japanese Spanish Greek Australian Taiwanese American-Indian Latino Canadian Arabic Jewish Belgian Bahrainian British Haitian South Korean Columbian Native Alaskan Sudanese Cuban French Dutch-American Puerto Rican Irish Honduran Caucasian Uzbekistanis Pakistani Norwegian Polish Portuguese South African Scottish Swedish Syrian Turkish Venezuelan Hispanic Egyptian Native Hawaiian Pacific Islander Eastern-European Prussian Afrikaan Israeli Asian-Indian Jamaican Samoan Australian-Aborigine North American Asian-American Black White North Korean Russian Native-American European-American Mexican Chinese South American Indian Other Filipino African-American Italian German Japanese Spanish Greek Australian Taiwanese American-Indian Latino Canadian Arabic Jewish Belgian Bahrainian British Haitian South Korean Columbian Native Alaskan Sudanese Cuban French Dutch-American Puerto Rican Irish Honduran Caucasian Uzbekistanis Pakistani Norwegian Polish Portuguese South African Scottish Swedish Syrian Turkish Venezuelan Hispanic Egyptian Native Hawaiian Pacific Islander Eastern-European Prussian Afrikaan Israeli Asian-Indian Jamaican Samoan Australian-Aborigine North American Asian-American Black White North Korean Russian Native-American European-American Mexican Chinese South American Indian Other Filipino African-American Italian German Japanese Spanish Greek Australian Taiwanese American-Indian Latino Canadian Arabic Jewish Belgian Bahrainian British Haitian South Korean Columbian Native Alaskan Sudanese Cuban French Dutch-American Puerto Rican Irish Honduran Caucasian Uzbekistanis Pakistani Norwegian Polish Portuguese South African Scottish Swedish Syrian Turkish Venezuelan Hispanic Egyptian Native Hawaiian Pacific Islander Eastern European Prussian Afrikaan Israeli Asian Indian Jamaican Samoan Australian-Aborigine North American AsianAmerican Black White North Korean Russian Native-American European-American Mexican Chinese South American Indian Other Filipino African-American Italian German Japanese Spanish Greek Australian Taiwanese American-Indian Latino Canadian Arabic Jewish Belgian Bahrainian British Haitian South Korean Columbian Native Alaskan Sudanese Cuban French Dutch-American Puerto Rican Irish Honduran Caucasian Uzbekistanis Pakistani Norwegian Polish Portuguese South African Scottish Swedish Syrian Turkish Venezuelan Hispanic Egyptian Native Hawaiian Pacific Islander Eastern-European Prussian Afrikaan Israeli Asian-Indian Jamaican Samoan Australian-Aborigine North American Asian-American Black White North Korean Russian Native-American European-American Mexican Chinese South American-Indian Other Filipino African-American Italian German Japanese Spanish Greek Australian Taiwanese American-Indian Latino Canadian Arabic Jewish Belgian Bahrainian British Haitian South Korean Columbian Native Alaskan Sudanese Cuban French Dutch-American Puerto Rican Irish Honduran Caucasian Uzbekistanis Pakistani Norwegian Polish Portuguese South African Scottish Swedish Syrian Turkish Venezuelan Hispanic Egyptian Native Hawaiian Pacific Islander Eastern-European Prussian Afrikaan Israeli Asian-Indian Jamaican Samoan Australian-Aborigine North American Asian-American Black White North Korean Russian Native-American European-American Mexican Chinese South American Indian Other Filipino African-American Italian German Japanese Spanish Greek Australian Taiwanese American-Indian Latino Canadian Arabic Jewish Belgian Bahrainian British Haitian South Korean Columbian Native Alaskan Sudanese Cuban French Dutch- American Puerto Rican Irish Honduran Caucasian Uzbekistanis Pakistani Norwegian Polish Portuguese South African Scottish Swedish Syrian Turkish Venezuelan Hispanic Egyptian Native Hawaiian Pacific Islander Eastern-European

EMERALD RIDGE HIGH SCHOOL

12405 184TH ST E SOUTH HILL, WA 98374

VOLUME FIVE ISSUE FOUR FEBRUARY 2005

28, 01.indd 2-3

2/2/2005 8:52:53 PM

16 Interracial Dating JagWire looks at the components and pressures of dating interracially.

Race

Katie – Gwen has come a long way since the start of No Doubt, and not necessarily in the right direction. She was way cooler as a disheveled ska chick. Shame on you Gwen.

Nicole – I like the sound of this music. It is something I would listen to if I was depressed or in a bad mood. His voice is kind of creepy sounding, though.

Lauren – Um, she is imaginative, and I guess she must be doing something good to have lasted so long. Her single is pretty catchy.

Columnists from different racial backgrounds give their perspectives on racial identity.

Katie – Don’t get me wrong, I love HIM, but you definitely have to be in a certain mood to enjoy it. Most likely just after you’ve finished watching “The Crow” for the 80 jillionth time and your settling in for a good loathe the world/cry session. But in their defense, they were doing it first, and they’re from Finland!

22| Wrestling undefeated in SPSL

Team beats Rogers for first time behind wrestlers such as Aaron Brown to capture the program’s first SPSL South dual meet title.

The Greater Wrong of the Right

Katie Mathieson

Nicole – This sounds like a re-make of the beach boys or something. Their old school sound is really awesome! Lauren – Well, this is quite interesting. Is it some kind of a cappella crap? Not what I would choose. Ever!

The Coats

The Collection

Katie – This is the kind of music you blast in your car when pissed off and speeding excessively. Skinny Puppy is like a party for your inner goth raver, so bust out the black eyeliner and fishnet sleeves!

Tyler – I’m still waiting for the music to start. I thought that this starving puppy could use some food (don’t you love unclear analogies?). This is pretty much auditory vomit. Bad Puppy!

Gwen Stefani Love, Angel, Music, Baby

Nicole Santos

Nicole – I think that Gwen should stay with No Doubt, because even though they weren’t a great band, they were OK. She just needs to never be heard again.

Lauren – Yes! One of the best bands ever! I love the lyrics, his voice, everything! Oh, and it helps that Valo is gorgeous!

09|s American Studies teacher Cory Evans, now Evans engaged, has worked making at Emerald Ridge since its second year and his own is dedicated to ER’s history philosophy.

Skinny Puppy

Tyler Quinn

Tyler – The dulcet and melodious tones of HIM really pushed me to look down inside and explore my soul. And you know what I found as I wept openly? A CD filled with mediocre, over-emotional, under-musical bullcrap. Sorry if you like HIM, but it’s just not my thing. Race historically has been a touchy subject in the Puyallup School District – the pink elephant in the room, so to speak. JagWire takes a comprehensive look at Puyallup and Emerald Ridge’s racial history while exploring issues ranging from racial identity to interracial dating to political correctness.

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2.04.05

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Coming soon: JagWire online at www.getjagwired.com

INSIDE

Four People. Fou r CD

me to the ro o c un ey

Tyler – Hmmm ... I love over-synthesized disco club bubblegum vocals as much as the next guy, but I feel like some of the melodies were created by chickens pecking at an out-of-tune piano. I have many doubts about Gwen’s solo career.

School drama production 25 | “Fools” keeps audiences “Fools” rolling with endless humor and good laughs its acting despite way into hard-to-hear lines good reviews throughout.

Tyler – I support them because it takes so much talent to create such awesome music using just your voice. The Coats are great and anyone who doesn’t think so is obviously on some sort of drug, or a dangerous criminal ... and should be arrested and tried accordingly. Katie – This makes me want to get a fake mustache and make a barbershop quartet. And that is definitely not a bad thing. If they weren’t so awesome, they would be a little corny. But they are awesome.

Lauren – I don’t know. It’s not something I would want to listen to on a regular basis. It sounds like dark club music. Or like a robot is singing. Nicole – They sound like deformed robots. The beat is really boring, and they sound like wanna-be rock/rappers. In other words they are complete and utter bullcrap.

HIM

Lauren Obregon

02, 27.indd 2-3

Razorblade Romance

2/2/2005 8:29:19 PM

A&E

JagWire

Like ‘Ma’ used to make Garza strikes gold It’s been there for years, but many South Hill natives have never eaten at Ma’s Place. Find out what you’ve been missing BY

LAUREN OBREGON

REPORTER

Ma’s Place, located across the street on the south side of the South Hill Mall, is a quiet and quaint restaurant offering a nice selection of hearty meals. You enter into a homey atmosphere that feels like, well, ma’s place. The white building is characterized by the sign out front with an old, gray-haired lady with what looks like waffles for a body gracing the front of it. The inside holds plush comfy booths and plenty of pictures, paintings, and interesting things to look at. The lamps hanging over the different booths and seats were of particular interest to me. I found their bright colors and designs quite entertaining. The view of the mall and the drive-by traffic is a little less

REVIEW than desirable, but it’s made up for by the food. The food is great, with a wide variety of combos to choose from. Ma’s has sandwiches big enough to stretch even the largest mouth. I ordered a B.L.T. and could barely finish the first half. The coleslaw is some of the best I have ever tasted, and the soups aren’t bad either. Their potato salad is moist and properly seasoned. Order a drink and you’re on your way to a delicious, reasonably-priced lunch. I was also impressed with the patience of our waitress as she would come to take our order and we still weren’t ready time and time again. Ma’s Place is great for people on the go to stop for a quick breakfast, lunch, or dinner. It is also a great place for families to go for a nice sit down dinner. It’s a good date location as well. It’s a very casual and comfortable place to catch a meal.

Are you a...

poet? artist? writer? photographer?

Submit pieces to room E-157 to have your art featured in Ascent, the ERHS Literary Magazine WE NEED SUBMISSIONS!

26,03.indd 2-3

The book ‘Pillars of Gold and Silver’ tells us the story of a young girl who overcomes great change BY

LAUREN OBREGON

REPORTER

Blanca Estela barely knew her father, but now he is dead, killed in the Korean War. Her grieving mother is moving her away from all she knows. This is the scene “Pillars of Gold and Silver,” paints. Author Beatriz de la Garza takes you to a small picturesque town in northern Mexico called Revilla. There, Estela and her mom move in with her grandmother, Mama Anita. Estela misses the comforts of the United States, and not being fluent in Spanish is hindering her ability to adapt. This is a good way to begin the story, as the reader can relate to it. However, it might have been nice to know a little more about her life before they moved. Every night the children of Revilla come outside to play games. The way Garza describes the colors and vivid imagery makes you feel as if you are there. It gives you an inside look at the

REVIEW culture of Mexico. The book is written in such a way that it shows you life through the eyes of a child as she discovers a world apart from the one she’s known. The more she learns about the culture, the more she understands her mother’s upbringing. The characters are very well developed. The fun comes to a sudden halt in the end when Estela is to return to the United States with her mother. As she leaves she promises her grandmother she will return to Revilla, which is a sad and somewhat disappointing ending. This book is a story about finding yourself and where you belong. It’s also about finding love and acceptance. The story is touching and well written. It leaves you wanting to travel and discover your family. “The sun shone brightly, already striking the white walls of the houses of Revilla, and in the distance the stones glimmered in the light like pillars of gold and silver.”

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LAKEWOOD (253) 964-6500

P U YA L L U P (253) 840-8400

FORT LEWIS (253) 964-6567

MCCHORD (253) 964-6606

w w w. p i e r c e . c t c . e d u

NEWS

World Week to rock ERHS A break from the ordinary schedule is on the way as advisories prepare for a week of hard work and fun

talents and encourage everyone to cooperate and trust one another. Everyone can have a job from researchers to a minister of finance. There are enough jobs for everyone to do something to help. “It pushes you to an almost uncomfortBY ROBIN STOYLES able edge,” said Lisa Kusche, co-director REPORTER of World Week. “It will push everyone to It’s the end of first semester and that work together.” Kusche is normally the Smaller Learning means it’s time for World Week. Every year after first semester there is Communities grant coordinator and is coa week of relief from the normal routine of directing with assistant principal Conchita school called a winterim week. This year, Oliver-Moore. They are doing many things to winterim week will be Feb. 7-11 and is World try to make this week as much like the real Week. This is something original to Emerald world as they can. Countries will do many Ridge because it is the only school to have things a normal country does. They will attend U.N. meetings and countries can even this innovation. It consists of a variety of activities and wage war on another country, although it will cost milobjectives lions of the that is set country’ss up to enlimited relighten stusources. dents about Based on the rest of attendance the world. and how well It expands a country the school’s — Lisa Kusche, co-director of World Week does, stuknowledge de nt s c a n and underearn a coustanding of world history and current issues affecting the pon of up to five percent age points that they rest of the world. These are expressed in the can use in any class for third quarter. Kusche says this is because in this week students will official World Week goals sheet. During the week, students will be with apply all their skills learned in classes. The week will end with a World’s Fair, their advisory where they will work together as a team to role play the country they when every country will build a booth to drew at the lottery. They will learn all the present on Friday. The booths will present basics about their country. Students will be the basic information and should creatively resemble the students’ country. presented with issues More than 30 educators, district employin their country and ees, and retired educators will be judging the choose one to assess booths’ information and designs. Kusche is and write a resolution hoping for a turnout of up to 200 elementary which their five United students to attend and vote on the booths. Nations representatives There are very few rules to restrict the will present to the rest creativity on these booths. In the first of the mock U.N. The World Week, three years ago, some students U.N. will have all the brought animals from their country, Kusche countries’ representaKusche has restricted animals from the booths. tives meet in the gym “We cannot have animals because of for their meeting. Those not interested in being a UN rep- all the animal droppings in the hallways,” resentative will have many other ways to Kusche said. World Week isn’t the only winterim week represent and support their country. Students can be a star athlete and go to the Olympics the school has. There are three variations to as a skier, soccer star, cross-country runner the week that circulate. Science/Technology or volleyball player. Anyone can compete Week will be next year and will be about sciin these events that will be played in the ence and nature in our world, and Business gym, they just have to be chosen by their Week, which was held last year, deals with advisory. Each sport requires two to four building a business and running it. The schools’ biggest goals for World Week team members. There are many other ways for a student are to teach students about the world and to to help out their advisory. One of the goals create an environment for students to work for World Week is to call on every student’s with each other.

“

IT PUSHES YOU TO AN ALMOST UNCOMFORTABLE EDGE. IT WILL PUSH EVERYONE TO WORK TOGETHER.

”

Top: Heads of state gather on the world map during the original World Week in 2002. Each is representing their advisory, which is symbolic of a country. Right: Former student Zach Franklin, then a sophomore, shows his national pride during the World’s Fair.

ER gives its change to help aid Asian tsunami victims In light of the recent tragic events devastating southeast Asia, Emerald Ridge students, staff give their resources BY

JESSICA RITCHIE

REPORTER

All around the world, there has been a bustle to give excess money or objects to the victims of the tsunami disaster in southeast Asia, and Emerald Ridge and the Puyallup School District are no exceptions. During both the Jan. 6 and Jan. 11 Service Council meetings, there was an outstanding turnout of students wanting to help, as volunteers officially amounted to 53. The list of possible projects included no less than 12 different types of money drives, 14 other miscellaneous ideas, and five possible ways of promoting the drives. In the end it was determined that there would be two fundraisers, one of which is Emerald Ridge only, and the second is to be a district-wide attempt at raising 10,000 health kits. The Emerald Ridge-only fundraiser is a penny drive, which is set to go through Feb. 4. Chair-persons, chair-assistants, and sub-chairs from both councils were divided into two groups – one for the coin drive and one for the health kits – to organize and promote the drives. “We’ve had several meetings and several plans,” sub-chair Marilyn Dixon said, “but not everyone is following through with it.” All of the fundraisers have started already and are to take place through World Week.

2/2/2005 8:52:04 PM

NEWS

JagWire

A&E

NEWS BRIEFS Locker rooms robbed While P.E. students were in the gym on Jan.13, their personal items that they hadn’t locked up were stolen by a student not part of the P.E. program. “It was the same as most thefts,” Pierce County Sheriff’s Deputy Andrew Finley said. “Kids leave stuff out – money, CD players – and don’t lock their lockers. People just leave stuff lying around, then they go to gym class and come back and it’s gone. They are inviting crime, is what they are doing.” When it comes down to what was stolen, Finley said there was almost $100, some CD players, perfume and other miscellaneous items. There were no criminal charges filed on the person who committed the theft, but there were consequences from the administration. “(The person) was really cooperative,” Finley said. “(They) were very honest. All of the stuff was returned in less than an hour.” The outer doors to the locker rooms cannot be locked because of fire codes, but Finley suggests that if a padlock can be used on P.E. students’ lockers to secure their personal items, use it. “The best solution is to secure your stuff,” Finley said. – ERICA BOSNICK AND NICOLE SANTOS

Schedule not being changed yet There will be no changes to the school schedule for second semester, despite recent rumors.

Principal Brian Lowney and Administrative Intern Condee Holbrook are working with a Jag Time committee that has been talking about changing the amount of Jag Time, but nothing has been finalized. “We’ve been working quite a bit with students and staff on Jag Time opportunities,” Lowney said. “We are not ready to make a significant change to the schedule to begin second semester, though.” Lowney and Holbrook don’t want to rush anything. This doesn’t mean that the schedule won’t be changed, as administration still is considering a change during the semester or maybe at the beginning of next year.

Maxfield, found the car around 9 a.m. on her way to High Pointe Community Church, a church that meets at the school. She immediately called Nusser on his mobile phone. He then came to the school and called the police. Nusser would like if anyone knows or hears anything to please come forward and notify him, a security guard, or Finley because this could happen to anyone and he would like for this not to happen to anyone else. – ROBIN STOYLES

– KASSIE GREEN

A red Honda del Sol was stolen from the lower level of the Emerald Ridge parking lot near the first entrance just before school ended on Jan. 27. Junior Ryan Ash-Greer’s car was found the next day in the woods near Pierce County Airport, hidden by bushes. The ignition was destroyed, the inside panels had been ripped off, and the transmission was destroyed. “Everything was just all ripped up,” said Ash-Greer. Ash-Greer was told by security that the two thieves were dropped off by a white car and it took them nearly an hour to break in. The strangest part of this theft was that there was no sign of forced entry.

Teacher’s car broken into English and journalism teacher Jeff Nusser’s car was broken into the weekend of Jan. 29. Nusser left it in the staff parking lot for the weekend, and the thieves broke the driver’s side window. They stole his stereo, subwoofer, Oakley sunglasses and a Craftsmen drill gun – a total of $600-$700 worth of possessions. Insurance will replace some of the stolen items, but not all of them. No one has been caught for the theft because school security tapes don’t show his car. Nusser suspects that it was broken into Saturday night after the play. His car was parked in the staff lower lot by the third gate. One of Nusser’s journalism students, senior Lindsey

Car stolen from student parking lot

– GRANT WOODRUFF From left to right, senior Cassandra Billingsley, senior Ryan Balatbat and junior Ryan McNamara read about the curse on the village of Kulyenchikov the in Neil Simon’s comedy “Fools.”

Dumbfounded by ‘Fools’

Tuxedo Specials

Recent production of Neil Simon’s ‘Fools’ leaves audience a little confused, but still laughing

*$65.00*

REPORTER

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LISSY BRYAN

Setting myself up to watch a play that I had heard much about, I was excited to see the “Fools” of a Russian town that would soon become the plot of an unusual bunch of characters. Yet, to my surprise, they also were obscure. A new and yearning school master, Leon Tolchinsky, arrives at the village and wants to get to know his students. As he meets the folk of the town, he is bewildered by the depths to which their stupidity plunges. Talking with the “doctor” of the town, who is clearly uneducated, he finally hears about the curse set on the people. Leon eventually sets off to break the curse that had been around for 200 years and was cast by a villainous count. In a story where the town is cursed with ignorance and stupidity, it was no

REVIEW surprise to me how the play would appear. With my expectations set high, I was not disappointed with the acting, plot, or characters. However, the play, I’m sure, would have been much better if I had understood all of the lines. The play, which happened to be my first in years, came across as funny and comical. The characters made the show much more interesting, with scenes such as when a character asked about the nice day and a another character responded with, “I don’t know, I haven’t looked up yet,” dumbfounding the audience. With great comedic lines and actors, it is no wonder that the audience laughed

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many times. But with the headline of the play being “A very VERY Funny Fable,” it made me question why the other very? I might have thought the play was very, very funny had I understood all of it. Since the play was set in Russia, the characters had Russian accents. In my opinion, this accent was not well expressed or understood and caused me to

WITH MY EXPECTATIONS SET HIGH, I WAS NOT DISAPPOINTED WITH THE ACTING, PLOT, AND CHARACTERS.

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turn to the people around and ask what every other word was. Most of the time, I didn’t get an answer because they didn’t understand, either. The plot and scenes of the story all tied in and were produced well. Though the kissing scenes might have been

cute, they soon became tiresome. With one kiss after another, they added up quickly. The fact that I saw many kissing scenes did not make me uncomfortable, but it made me question, why the need of them? The sheer number gave me a feeling that there was more recognition and attention to those particular scenes then should have been. Although the accents were poorly done, the actors deserved the standing ovation they received. The actors stayed with the scripts and well into character. I did not recognize any mistakes with the lines. No one looked out of place, and everyone seemed happy to be there. Next time I plan to watch a play put on by Emerald Ridge, I will prepare myself more – prepare to get hearing aids for help to understand what is said, but also to be able to clap and laugh at the character of the actors and play. “It’s 9 o’clock and all is well,” the local magistrate called at the beginning of the show, and it summed up how I felt as the play ended gracefully.

2/2/2005 8:34:12 PM

A&E

JagWire

OP/ED

Standing above all the rest Racism: Not just hate crimes ‘In Good Company’ is a king above peasants as far as films go this spring movie season BY

MATT CLICK

REPORTER

The time span between the holiday and summer movie seasons is, quite frankly, a heaping mound of stinking crap. This year’s pile of refuse includes such titles as “Elektra,” “Racing Stripes,” and “Are We There Yet?” Luckily, if you sift through the garbage long and hard enough, you find little hidden gems like “In Good Company.” It is the brief glimmer of hope at the end of the long, dark tunnel that is the movie selection this month. It restores what little faith I had left in the American movie industry after hearing that Frankie Muniz was voiceacting a zebra with dreams of becoming a race horse (I sincerely hope whoever pitched that idea has been fired and/or severely beaten). “In Good Company” tells the story of Dan Foreman (Dennis Quaid), a middle-aged advertisement executive who goes to work one day only to find out that his branch, after being sold to a different company, is undergoing management changes and massive layoffs.

REVIEW Dan is demoted and the helm is taken by Carter Duryea (Topher Grace), a young, inexperienced businessman barely half Dan’s age. At home, Dan’s wife confesses to him she’s pregnant. To add to the mess, Dan’s new boss has just fallen for his daughter and they’re beginning a relationship behind his back. This film is a comedy, but not a traditional one by my standards. Yes, it’s funny, but not uproariously so. It’s humorous without being unrealistic. It makes you chuckle just enough so that you still take it seriously. This, I admire. It is a film that does not allow itself to be boxed in with the rest of the comedies. In a month of movies where zebras become heroes (will that poor zebra’s dream ever come true?), “In Good Company” is a lone star. It’s witty and smart, with intriguing characters and situations. I especially liked Quaid’s character, a loving, protective father at home and a loyal, trustworthy employee at the office. In one of my favorite scenes, he is forced to lay off two of his best co-workers who’ve been with him for years. Dan Foreman is a man whose world is falling apart around him, but he doesn’t want

Ignorance only perpetuates problems in America

those he cares about to come to harm. Grace’s character, a young man abandoned by his wife and given a job he can’t handle, is equally interesting. Throughout the course of the film, Carter Duryea is forced to become a person he doesn’t like. He must take charge of a staff that obviously liked the way things were before he showed up. Of course, with a movie like this, you’d expect the perfect Hollywood ending. Boy gets girl and they walk off into the sunset, right? Yeah, I’m sick of that. I love this film’s ending. Where most films tie everything up in a neat little package and top it off with a bow, “In Good Company” goes with an ending that makes us feel that, though everything isn’t resolved perfectly, we know these characters are going to be okay. Somewhat unheard of and a little underappreciated, “In Good Company” probably isn’t on the top of everyone’s movies to-see list. But then, what is? “Elektra?” I hope not (see bottom review). See “In Good Company” instead. If you keep paying for crappy movies, Hollywood is going to keep making them. Then again, if there aren’t any crappy movies, there’d be no reason for me to write reviews. OK, go see crappy movies. But hate it. Really, really hate it. That way you can enjoy gems like “In Good Company” that much more.

hat is racism? How do we, as a culture, define that word? For some, it is a word to be feared. For others, a fact of life. For most, though, it is a thing of the past. Or is it? According to Webster’s dictionary, racism is defined as racial prejudice or discrimination. But does that four-word definition really encompass and explain all of the different aspects of racism? Does it really cover the feeling you get when you can’t find someone of your race on TV? Does it really define it when your school is a sea of color, and very little of it is yours? Racism, like it or not, extends far beyond conscious “racial prejudice or discrimination.” Most of America might have moved beyond the Ku Klux Klan and lynching in broad-daylight. However, much subtler vestiges of the rampant racism of earlier times remain. Of course, you probably haven’t noticed anything around Emerald Ridge. After all, this is Washington. We weren’t involved in the marches during the ‘60s or anything else, and everything here is just peachy. Right? Let’s tweak that definition of racism. What if we said that racism also can be defined as anything that does not actively combat the ethnic stereotypes and barriers in place today? Check the Advanced Placement or honors classes. Are the races represented proportional to the school’s? Even at all? Is that not a form or racism in itself? Racism isn’t just putting down someone from another race. Racism is systematic, something you don’t even

‘Elektra’ compares to ancient torture methods Jennifer Garner once again grabs a couple of knives and becomes a superhero in her new film, the indirect sequel to ‘Daredevil’ BY

MATT CLICK

REPORTER

24,05.indd 2-3

My initial question was soon answered by the credits: Directed by Rob Bowman. Curious, I looked his name up on the Internet Movie Database. Turns out our friend Mr. Bowman has absolutely nothing to his name except “Reign of Fire” and a bunch of “Star Trek: Next Generation” episodes. So now I have a new query: Who let this guy make a movie? Jennifer Garner’s character is a bit different this time around. Elektra has dropped the cheery demeanor she sported in “Daredevil” in favor of a gloomy, angst-ridden personality. A side-effect of resurrection? Maybe. Bad plot device? Probably. Elektra spends half the film hanging up on people and waking up from nightmares of her mother’s death. She’s like a dramatic teenager. It seems that Elektra was tragically born without a personality. Seriously though, cry me a river, Elektra. You weren’t upset about your mom’s death in “Daredevil”; why is it suddenly on the top of your to-do list to find her killer? “Elektra” is just so incredibly horrible, it’s hard not to laugh at the corny dialogue or characters. For example, I spent half the movie trying to stifle my laughs after

Got Opinion? Write a letter to the editor Submit to room E-157 I learned some of the villain’s names. Typhoid, Stone, and Tattoo are just a few of the ridiculous characters. Typhoid has the power to kill plants, while Stone is just a really big strong guy, and Tattoo has a bunch of body art that animates itself. Not only are these villains cheesy and non-threatening (and subsequently die quickly), but all of their parents also decided to name them like a bunch of G.I. Joe characters. And so, for an hour and half, Elektra stands around being gloomy while simultaneously managing to have the camera get a great shot of her butt. There’s a vague, confusing storyline about the little girl she’s supposed to protect,

but it’s mostly just crap. Needless to say, “Elektra” actually had me hoping for Ben Affleck to show up and make it slightly less sucky. Now, I’m sure those of you who haven’t seen “Elektra” (or, as I like to call them, the lucky ones) are probably thinking I’m over exaggerating. No. I’m not. It’s honestly that bad. So, to those of you who believe I’m blowing this out of proportion, I have this to say: don’t belittle my pain. Please, I beg of you, don’t see “Elektra.” If you do, it’ll make enough money to warrant a sequel and I’ll have to go see that too. If not for me, then for the children.

We have admittedly made giant strides over the last 50 years. Some believe that the battle is now finished, but it is precisely that attitude that perpetuates systematic racism. Please don’t leave the battle early. Finish it out. Make a difference. And maybe, just maybe, you will end up changing the world. Editorials are composed by, and are the opinion of, the JagWire editorial board.

STAFF EDITORIAL BOARD ....................................CARISSA CARTER ................................................................................... XANDER KNOX ............................................................................ LINDSEY MAXFIELD .......................................................................................TYLER QUINN ................................................................................JAMES STANFORD DESIGN EDITOR ......................................MIKEL ARMSTRONG PHOTOGRAPHY EDITOR .................KATINA MATHIESON BUSINESS MANAGER ........................... LINDSEY MAXFIELD CIRCULATION MANAGER ........................ ROBIN STOYLES REPORTERS .............................................................. AMMA BOFA .......................................................................................... ANNA BOFA ...................................................................................ERICA BOSNICK ...........................................................................................LISSY BRYAN .................................................................................. EMILY CAETANO .......................................................................................... MATT CLICK .................................................................................... MARLEAH FEIST ......................................................................................... TAYZHA FOX ............................................................................ BRITTANY GENTILE .............................................................................. KAITLYN GOLDEN .......................................................................................KASSIE GREEN .......................................................................................... NICK KAJCA ............................................................................LAUREN OBREGON ..............................................................................ELAINE RAYMOND ................................................................................... JESSICA RITCHIE ..................................................................................NICOLE SANTOS ....................................................................................... DREW SCOTT .................................................................................... ROBIN STOYLES .......................................................................... KRISTIN WELLENTIN ...........................................................................JENNIFER WHITHAM .......................................................................... GRANT WOODRUFF ADVISER....................................................................... JEFF NUSSER AFFILIATES

CSPA, JEA, NSPA, SPJ, WJEA, WSJA

Not even shots of Jennifer Garner’s stomach can atone for this film’s sins against humanity.

THE FINE PRINT

Emerald Ridge High School 12405 184th St. E. South Hill, WA 98374 | 253-435-6300

Photo courtesy of 20th Century Fox

After an hour and 26 minutes, “Elektra” faded to black, the credits began their slow ascention to wherever credits go after being read, and I sat dumbfounded. There was one question on my mind, one simple curiosity: Who let this happen? “Elektra” stars Jennifer Garner reprising her role as Elektra, a kind of leather-clad, ninja-superhero whom we met in 2003’s “Daredevil” (a movie I didn’t really like at the time but now appreciate after seeing “Elektra”). Now, I know what you’re thinking. Didn’t she die at the end of “Daredevil?” Yeah, she did (and in my opinion, it probably would have been best for her to stay dead). But she’s resurrected by Stick, a blind martial artist, so that she can further her quest against the forces of evil. After meeting a young single guy and his daughter, she realizes that they are being chased by the bad guys and she decides to help them out.

REVIEW

think about most of the time. After all, when surveyed, 85 percent of Emerald Ridge students felt that racism is not a problem. Is it any coincidence that 85 percent of our school is also White? However, it isn’t really a surprise that this cycle has been repeating since the birth of our nation and shows no sign of stopping. The group on top receives great benefits from it. In our society, Whites get the most publicity, the highest-paying jobs, the nicest pensions. Those in the top tier don’t feel very inclined to change the balance of power; if I’m White, I like this system. This cleavage by race is only worsened by its glorification in the mass media. Think back to your favorite Disney movies – what colors are the hero and the villain? The hero is always in soft, pastel, white colors. The villain is red and black. Why is Simba’s mane yellow and Scar’s mane black in “Lion King?” Why was Aladdin always dressed in white and Jafar dressed red and black? How much did “Peter Pan” influence your view of Native Americans as a three-year-old and beyond? Stereotyping like this – intentional or unintentional – colors the way we view the world for the rest of our lives. How can we break free of this system that subtly is tearing our country to pieces? Don’t take the easy road. Sit down at lunch and talk with someone new. Take World Week seriously. Don’t just blow it off; learn about your country’s culture and traditions. And don’t sit back and watch a huge percentage of our nation and our world be subjected to injustice.

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 should 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

JagWire c/o Emerald Ridge High School, or by e-mailing them to jdnusser@puyallup.k12.wa.us. 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.

2/2/2005 8:51:21 PM

OP/ED

JagWire

SPORTS

World awareness growing S

ince its inception, Emerald Ridge has aimed itself at becoming a valued member of not only Puyallup, but of the world. Students and staff alike have worked towards building an environment conducive to student learning and student involvement. Although the attempt has always been made, at times the result has fallen short. Last issue, we challenged students to step beyond the walls of Emerald Ridge, and discover a new world. Since then, students have taken that and run with it. Walk anywhere in the school – you’ll find students frantically researching their country for World Week, raising money for tsunami victims, and performing community services far beyond the required 20 culminating project hours. Especially considering Puyallup’s somewhat stagnant history with change, the steps the students of Emerald Ridge have taken are incredible. Progress has been real, if somewhat slow. However, the past few months have shown an acceleration toward this end. The culture of our school is changing daily. A movement that started six years ago when ER was planned is building rapidly, thanks to several key events. The fifth annual Martin Luther King Jr. assembly took place on Jan. 21. Producing such an amazing assembly required the combined efforts of more than 45 students

and staff members. The cast and crew of the MLK assembly met after school and on weekends from the month of November all the way to January. These students are not actors. But the bond that brought them together saw past that – it was a commitment to acceptance and understanding. These 45 students and faculty worked tirelessly in an attempt to share that message with their peers. The devastation caused by the recent tsunami is geographically about as far as one can get from Emerald Ridge High School. Yet, the recently initiated change drive to raise money for victims demonstrates a worldwide consciousness on the part of Emerald Ridge’s student body. The collected funds will go to help victims of the tsunami and, although we hope the class competition-motivated drive is unrelated to the Color Splash assembly, we cannot fault charitable donations, no matter their inspiration. Next week is World Week. It is our chance as a school to step outside our own walls and think globally. It is our chance to change the world, even if it is only a mock U.N. and we will be competing in mock Olympics and a mock World’s Fair. Imagine the possibilities! Where can this sudden exposure to different cultures take us? Together these incidents are an amazing start. We are beginning realize that the world doesn’t end when

Meridian meets the freeway. When the messages we have learned from the MLK assembly and the compassion we are showing with the coin drive meet the upcoming interim week, incredible things happen. And if, together, we give World Week the effort it deserves, then there will be no stopping us. Some of these activities are not new. The Martin Luther King Jr. assembly happens every year and this is World Week’s second stop at Emerald Ridge. Yet, we are optimistic that this will be the year when these changes take root in new and diverse ways. In the editorial last issue, we encouraged change. Although the piece received mixed reviews, we stand by our message. We feel that, as a community, we could do more to help the world around us and, in turn, educate ourselves about that world. We want to recognize the change that is happening all around us. In this ever-changing world, our future relies upon our interdependence. The sooner we realize that, and become globally aware, the more secure our place in that future. Keep up the good work, Emerald Ridge.

What has been your favorite part of high school basketball? How close our team is this year.

What are your plans for next year?

Editorials are composed by, and are the opinion of, the JagWire editorial board.

Going to Central Washington and studying dentistry. I might play basketball.

LETTER TO THE EDITORS As a former Editor and writer for the JagWire, I’m writing to express my discontent with your recent feature on the economical divide between Tacoma and Puyallup. Rather than being an exposé discussing the factors that go into each different city and its makeup, it seemed to me, a lifelong resident of Tacoma until just recently, that you were simply slamming Tacoma and praising the lifestyle Puyallup has rightfully created for itself. Of the last 20 years, I have lived 19 in Tacoma, and I took personal offense to your editorial. Congratulations on being rich, good for you, but I find it an editorial disgrace to put down Tacoma as you did. You mention the boarded up houses in Tacoma, but you fail to mention the dilapidated trailers that pepper Puyallup. You talk about chain link fences in Tacoma, yet ignore the low-income, neglected, rickety apartments on the edges of South Hill. Drive-by shootings are said of Tacoma, the rampant drug use and rates of sexually transmitted diseases in Puyallup High Schools are spared. You show a homeless man in Tacoma as if it were the norm and speak of our area as if it has never had to deal with

06,23.indd 2-3

the problem, yet a recent trip of my own to a park in South Hill introduced me to a homeless man who happily explained his heroin addiction, pointed out three houses in the area that could deal me in if I cared for it, and he displayed his hepatitis-ravaged skin on a whim. “Fred” in your article wanted a cake for his birthday; the man I spoke with continually told me he was simply waiting to die. Despair doesn’t simply evade itself because a population has a higher median income. My family used to live four people to a 600-square-foot, one-bedroom home in Tacoma – my parents slept on the floor of the living room so my brother and I could have bunk beds in the sole room, about the same size as the bathroom. Grown now, my wife and I recently moved from Tacoma to Puyallup. I don’t consider this an upgrade, I consider this but a change. We love the people, the community, and the area here. The location to our places of employment and our families affected our decision, not because our former area was “bad” in any sense. We too love Tacoma and the culture it has. While a combined income has allowed for us to find a “nice” house in Puyallup, we are still not naive enough to think that

what was less-than-wonderful in Tacoma is absent from Puyallup. When I first attended Emerald Ridge, during its inaugural year, I was treated like an outcast at first glance because I came from Lincoln High School. Yes, the one in Tacoma. My clothes were too baggy, my slang was too strange, I wore Nike instead of Abercrombie, drove an Acclaim instead of an Accord. Yet my GPA was a 4.0, I participated in Key Club, Honor Society and I wrestled. I came to Emerald Ridge because the idea of new was exciting – I drove 65 miles each day just to get from home to school and back. It was worth it because of the friends I did make, the sports I did play, and the newspaper I took such pride in. Not because of the monetary factor the region supported. People thought I was a “bad-ass gangster” because of where I lived, and treated me as such. It’s the empyrean, holier-than-thou attitude displayed in your editorial that helps strengthen that type of divide. Should you have included the facts that Tacoma schools support a population over five times that of Puyallup, has twice as many high schools, has more untold numbers of students with learning

disabilities in normal class rotations, or that the Tacoma School District receives lesser amounts, on average, of funding than Puyallup schools, perhaps you could have balanced out your assessment. But instead, you focused on the income of individual students and their families. Shame on you. Tacoma has more million-dollar homes, more millionaires as such, in turn making the photo spread you used on your cover a debasing misrepresentation. I could find the same type of photo you showed of South Hill in one of a hundred Tacoma neighborhoods, and the photo you used of Tacoma in one of dozens of communities in South Hill – keep in mind, Tacoma has much more area to pick from, so it’s easier to pick on; which is what JagWire has chosen to do. I applaud JagWire for continuing the in-depth reviews and discussions of critical subjects I remember from my time as a staff member, but I hang my head in disgrace at the lopsided, critical, biased and failed comparison recently made. I’ll hope for more of a balance in issues to come. Here’s to a less selfish future. Nathan Jendrick Class of 2003

Honesty, because you have to be able to trust your teammates on the court.

What has been the biggest obstacle you’ve faced? On top of the injuries, just life off the court.

Stats as of 1/31

Which professional athlete do you admire? Magic Johnson is great, just because of all the stuff he does in the community.

What has motivated you in competions? Playing hard to make up for my time injured.

What were your personal goals coming into the season? Leading the team to a winning season and improving the younger players.

Photos by Carissa Carter

Dear Editor:

What are qualities you admire in a teammate?

Points per game: 11.9 Rebounds per game: 3.67 Field goal pct. : 61.4% Free throw: 75.5%

2/2/2005 8:35:09 PM

SPORTS

JagWire

Wrestling finishes undefeated

ASL Club hopes to teach members about the traditions of the deaf community by interacting with them while having a good time and learning the language

JENNIFER WHITHAM

REPORTER

MARLEAH FEIST

REPORTER

If talking to people without actually saying a word to them sounds intriguing, the American Sign Language Club may be an incredible opportunity for those interested in getting a head start on one of the world’s increasingly popular languages. Advised by ASL teachers Mitch Noll, who founded the club when the school opened, and Kathy Underhill, ASL Club is led by a team of five officers. Senior Laura Quann and junior Nicole Palmer are Co-Presidents, senior Megan Padilla is Director of Activities, junior Kristin Dexter is Treasurer and sophomore Diana Rushton is Secretary. Together, they teach their fellow members about the traditions of the ASL community through games and group activities. “We try to support all ASL activities with other schools,” Quann said. “We host

Sophomore Aaron Brown (right) beats senior Ram Thomas Haulman by major decision, helping the Jags beat Rogers for the first time, 37-27.

130 pounds, making the margin an insurmountable seven points heading into the final match. Other Jaguars earning victories were senior Brynsen Brown (215 pounds) and sophomores Aaron Brown (171), Julio Rodriguez (125) and Kevin Wills (135). Though the Jags might not have been favored to win by outsiders, the wrestlers disagreed. “I was confident about the match; we have a good team this year,” Webster said. The team wrestled strong and in the end it paid off with their record remaining

untouched. The match was said to be one of the most intense as well as exciting due not only to school rivalry, but Rogers was a strong competitor with a good team. “It was that it was Rogers, we were both undefeated teams,” sophomore Aaron Brown said. Both teams’ records were not the only thing on the line – like football, the Jaguars had never beaten Rogers in wrestling until this year. “The Rogers match was the highlight of the season. It felt really good because we had never beat them,” Webster said. The bleachers roared with fans, parents, teachers and students, showing their support. “It felt good, I was pumped,” Julio Rodriguez said. “You could feel the electricity in the air, it was an exciting match, there were so many people there.” However, Rogers was not the only successful match for the Jags. They gained another win against Bethel, 50-21. The wrestlers won 10 out of 14 on individual matches that night, beginning and ending strong with pins from Gallagher, Wills, Webster, junior Dustin Snyder at 189 and junior T.J. Smith at 215. Federal Way also was a success, though victory did not come as easily. FW was prepared, with the Jaguars fall-

ing behind after the first six matches, but again taking control of the match with three consecutive pins from Aaron Brown, Snyder, and Smith. The match was secured with a final pin from Webster that clinched at least a tie for the SPSL South league title. During both of those matches, Emerald Ridge wrestled without one of its captains. Senior Brynsen Brown, who is one of the favorites to win a state title at 189 pounds, was suspended from school during that time. An athlete is barred from competing while on suspension, but he faced no further sanctions and returned to wrestle in the final match of the season against Puyallup. Against the Vikings, the Jags gave it everything and came out on top once again with a score of 39-34. Sophomore Julio Rodriguez, Wills, and junior Keith Schlecht at 160 won their matches by pins, while Aaron and Brysen Brown and Timothy each received forfeits. The wrestlers and coaches are ready now to move on to state, and all their hard work has gotten them far. “We worked hard at practice, everyone did their job, if we needed someone to make a pin or win their match, they did,” Fernando Rodriguez said. “I’m looking forward to wrestling with other wrestlers at the state level.”

Juniors Jessica Crockett (forefront) and Kristin Dexter cheer on fellow ASL Club members while they play a round of the game “Bell Dash.”

silent games and immersion dinners and we did a scavenger hunt last December at the mall.” The scavenger hunt was intended to give the participants a perspective of what the hearing-impaired community endures on a daily basis. There was no talking allowed during the game; only signing was permitted, and each two-person team had to locate every item on the list, without speaking. In addition to playing games and tutoring other members who may need help with their ASL, the club also hosts parties. They watch sign songs, which are student-made music videos in sign language. Palmer says they also discuss upcoming events and fulfill their lives with the enrichment that comes from interacting and understanding another culture. The main goal of ASL Club is stated in its constitution: “To promote unity and acceptance through interaction with the deaf community and explore the beauty of American Sign Language.” Palmer says she enjoys going out into the community to help others whenever she can.

“

“ASL Club is all about having fun and getting involved as much as you can,” she said.

or Underhill’s room. “A couple of my friends are in it and they don’t know any ASL whatsoever, which is pretty funny,” Quann said. For those who are a bit leery of joining because of a definite language barrier, Noll says the club —NICHOLE PALMER, junior is not conducted silently. “Don’t be afraid to just leap in,” he So who can join ASL Club? Regardless of experience or expertise, said. “It’s not all done in ASL but we do anyone may join ASL Club. It meets the use it for some games and activities. Jump second and fourth Thursday of every in with both feet, learn as you go and month during second Jag in either Noll don’t let the signing intimidate you.”

ASL CLUB IS ALL ABOUT HAVING FUN AND GETTING INVOLVED AS MUCH AS YOU CAN

Photo by Lissy Bryan

22,07.indd 2-3

Photo by Mikel Armstrong

The wrestling season has been a rewarding one thus far. The Jags not only have defended their undefeated title against school rivals Rogers and Puyallup, but they also captured their first SPSL South league title by finishing with a 12-0 record. Heading into the showdown with the Rams on Jan. 13, both Rogers and Emerald Ridge were 8-0, with Rogers being picked by at least one local newspaper to win the league. The Jaguars defeated Rogers 37-27, laying down the league title within the power of ER. The first pin was attained by sophomore John Gallagher during the third round in the 145-pound weight class, followed by junior Jordan Smith, wrestling at 152 pounds, winning a key match to give the Jaguars a 9-0 lead. Gallagher’s match was especially key, as he was trailing his opponent late in the third period when he scored a reversal that led to the pin with just over one minute remaining in the match. Even though it was the first match of the night, it proved to be a turning point in the contest. Rogers later scored two pins to capture the lead, but the Jags returned the favor with juniors Nick Webster (125) and Justin Timothy (119) both pinning their opponents. The match was clinched when Rogers’ Justin Rambow was able to score no better than a minor decision against senior Fernando Rodriguez at

Club promotes acceptance

The team beats all odds by winning the SPSL South league title without one of its captains for two matches BY

FEATURE

Junior Kristin Dexter celebrates a win.

”

Buy a treatie for your sweetie! Buy one smoothie,

get the next for 50 cents off!

Only at the Student Store Coupon good through 4/1/05

2/2/2005 8:50:01 PM

08 FEATURE

JagWire

Senior diver Justin Mertlich has his eyes on a state championship in his third trip to the state swim and dive meet

BY NICK KAJCA REPORTER

Right now, it is hard to find too many groups busier then the debate team. With tournaments almost every weekend and two hour practices twice a week, debaters definitely have their hands full. The string of consecutive tournaments kicked off on Jan. 15 at Federal Way High School. The team did not receive any awards or high honors, but they still are pleased with the way the tournament went. “Overall we did well and improved,” junior member Evangeleen Dansby said. The group followed the Federal Way tournament with another one on Jan. 22. This was a rhetorical contest that had some higher implications than the other events, offering scholarships. Overall the team did not fare that well. “It was not our best tournament,” said team captain Kelly Kamstra, a junior. The team was excited to head to another tournament and improve on their performance from the previous week. Their next contest was over the weekend of Jan. 29 and was held at Pacific Lutheran University. This contest gave the team a taste of what the future world of debate will look like. It featured formal settings and order, and even stands. “It was a pretty big one, we were excited for it,” Dansby said. This tournament turned out to be a successful one, as three members either placed or did well. Senior Sarah Nesemeier took fourth in novice impromptu, junior David Witting did well in dramatic interpretation, and Kamstra did well in open debate. “This was definitely a good tournament,” Kamstra said. Finally, after this contest, things begin to slow down a bit. The team will be at a tournament in Spokane on Feb. 3-5, and then they break up as about four or five members begin to prepare for the student congress event, which literally is a student version of our state’s own congress. If the participants do well they have the opportunity to advance to state and even nationals. The event will be held o n F e b. 15 and it has those people who are going excited. “This is definitely a big event for the people that are going,” Dansby said. This has been a good year for the team, which just is trying to develop a solid debate program. They started the year with eight more members then the previous season and are pleased that these numbers have stayed the same throughout the whole year. That, however, does not mean that team still is not looking to increase their size. “It is never too late to turn out for the team,” Kamstra said. “Debate is good fun and you get to use big words.”

KAITLYN GOLDEN

REPORTER

For most students, getting up for school is the worst part of their day. Most can’t even imagine getting up for a sports practice before school, but senior diver Justin “Spud” Mertlich does it every day. “He is committed to diving; he has to be,” dive coach Michelle Dorbaugh said. “He’s here (at the pool) every morning at five. Then he has his two hours of practice after school, too. He is actually a pretty good swimmer.” Even though he has swimming talent, Mertlich would rather dive. “Swimming is too hard,” Mertlich said. This year, Mertlich’s goal is to take first place at state. “I really want to take first in state this year. I think I can do it, I took eighth place last year,” Mertlich said. Dorbaugh also believes that Mertlich has the potential to win state. “Yeah, he’s capable (of winning state),” Dorbaugh said. “My goal is for him to break into the 450 point range. Right now, he’s at about 390 points, so he’s not at his best yet.” A diver gets six dives to score points in a regular dual meet. However, to qualify for state or districts a diver must compete in an 11-dive meet, where they have to complete and pass 11 different dives. Districts and state are both 11-dive meets. To qualify for districts or state, divers must also achieve a certain score. To qualify for state, a diver needs to score at least 325 points. There are typically five judges that score on a scale from 0-10. The highest and lowest scores are thrown out and the middle three scores are added together and multiplied by the degree of difficulty. That way, the higher the degree of difficulty, the higher your score. To boost his score, Mertlich is working on dives with

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a harder degree of difficulty. “Right now, he’s working on a one-and-a-half somersault, with a one-and-a-half twist. That’s his hardest dive right now,” Dorbaugh said. The dive has a 2.5 degree of difficulty. The highest possible degree of difficulty is 3.2. Although that is his most difficult dive, it isn’t Mertlich’s favorite one to do. “My hardest dive that I have has a 2.5 degree of difficulty, but I think the most fun dive is a back double because it feels cool do to it. Its degree of difficulty is 2.2,” Mertlich said. On Jan. 8, Mertlich competed in a dive invitational. “The competition went really well,” Mertlich said. “I got first and scored 391.8, which broke my old record. There were two 3A guys there, one was third in state and one was eighth in state, I think, and I beat them both by 50 points.” The next weekend, Jan. 15, Mertlich competed in another dive invitational. “He beat the 3A state champion by 60 points, and he still had one bad dive. He (Mertlich) hasn’t been beat yet this year,” Dorbaugh said. Mertlich has been a diver for Emerald Ridge for the past four years. He competed in state as a junior and as a sophomore where he tool eighth and twenty-third. As a freshman he took ninth in his district, but only the top seven divers qualify for state. He decided to try diving as a freshman during that year’s water polo season, which is the trimester before swimming season. “I was doing a flip during practice,” Mertlich said. “Someone told me I should try diving, so I did.” Mertlich’s willingness to try new things is something that makes him an excellent diver, according to Dorbaugh. “He’s not afraid to try new things,” Dorbaugh said. “He’ll do anything. He’s not scared to hit the water (on a bad dive), and when you hit it, it feels like you’re slamming into concrete.” After high school, Mertlich intends to keep on diving. “Last year, he had no ambitions to go to college, but that’s really changed this year. He has a strong possibility of getting a full ride scholarship somewhere, maybe BYU

Justin Mertlich wants to attend Brigham Young University.

(Brigham Young University),” Dorbaugh said. Mertlich says that BYU is definitely where he wants to go to college, both to dive and because he is Mormon. “After high school, I am planning on getting a full ride to BYU,” Mertlich said. The Emerald Ridge swim team finished their season with a record of 2-5 and placed fourth in the Holiday Relays, which included all teams from the SPSL.

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This year has brought new girls and a sense of team unity to the gymnastics team. “Coming into the year, I wanted to improve myself and learn new skills, but also I wanted to become closer friends with the girls on the team,” junior captain Rose Velasquez said. Velasquez and the other captain, senior Kayla Henke, have taken this unity a step further, setting the team’s collective sight on the league’s Sportsmanship Award, which is based on the girl’s attitudes during meets, both towards each other and to other teams, and whether their home meet goes smoothly.

“From the beginning I wanted to get better, and just improve our placement in the league,” coach Christi Gisti said. “But most of all I wanted the girls to have fun with gymnastics.” Before the team could reach the end of the season, however, several key injuries put the goal of league awards in jeopardy. Sophomore April Moore developed a bone spur in her foot, putting her out for the season, and Velasquez had knee surgery, resulting in a six-week absence. According to the Velasquez, these setbacks didn’t hinder the team for long. “We had to make up for lost points,” Velasquez said. “But it ended up being an opportunity for other girls to step up and win some points.”

Also giving the girls an edge this year has been the 23 girls turning out, a significant improvement from last year. A boost in team size, along with personal improvements by some individuals, has helped the team through the key injuries. “We’ve seen a definite improvement this year. Girls have full routines now, and we are all coming together well as a team,” Henke said. Getting the girls through a year with mostly new members is another aspect that could have put a damper on the year. Luckily, both captains have the experience and personal skills to meet this challenge. Henke and Velasquez have both been a part of the gymnastics program since their respective sophomore years, and each

has helped to bring the team closer. This is a feat, considering the size difference between this year and last year. “The girls worked hard and shared their areas of expertise when I was busy with other girls,” Gisti said. Supporting the team along with the captains is a solid lineup of gymnasts, including sophomores Sheri Carrichio and Amy Woodcock, and junior Jamie Sagdahl. The solid base of sophomores and juniors bodes well for next year, giving Velasquez something to look forward to in future competition. “We have a lot of returning sophomores next year, which is a difference from last year,” Velasquez said. “I think they will keep contributing more and make a strong team for the next few years.”

2/2/2005 8:39:36 PM

20 SPORTS

JagWire

FEATURE

Girls hoops stand fourth in SPSL BY

NICK KAJCA

REPORTER

If the girls basketball season ended now with three games remaining, the team would be in the playoffs. With a record of 9-5, the team is in fourth place in the SPSL South; which would be good enough for the final spot in the league tournament. The year is starting to have a sense of déjà vu around it as this season is beginning to look more and more like the one two years ago. After a sub-500 season the team hired a new coach, P.E. teacher Misty Smith, and started a miraculous turnaround that ended with the girls finishing third in league and advancing deep into the district playoffs. The team ended up losing the final game that would have sent them to the state tournament. This year’s team is also coming off of a sub. 500 season and has hired new coach Greg Farias. This has led to a solid turnaround and a possible playoff birth. Whether the team will follow in their predecessor’s footsteps and make a run in the playoffs remains to be seen. However, to be in this position has been a realistic goal for the team all year long. “We have good girls who play hard, and feel good about what they are doing,” Farias said. “We get the absolute most from the talent that we have.” The season so far has been going to plan. “I feel pretty good about how things are going,” Farias said. The team’s main philosophy has been to win the games that they are supposed to win. With four of their five league losses coming to the top three teams in the league – Bethel, Curtis, and Spanaway Lake – this has been done for the most part. Only one loss has the girls itching for revenge the next time around.

“Our only really bad loss was to Federal Way,” junior guard Stacey Sas said. It is things like the Federal Way loss that have the team focusing on ways to improve for the remaining three games. “We are going to work on our press, and we will work on our zone defense,” Farias said. The girls have had their problems on defense. Their opponents are shooting over 45 percent against them, but the main focus will be on offense. The team’s field goal percentage is only 32 percent. The answer to this problem, however, seems to be an unlikely one. Instead of shooting more jump shots in practice, the girls are again going back to defense. They believe their defensive pressure will lead to more turnovers and scoring opportunities. “The harder we work on defense, our offense will improve,” Farias said. This still leaves the team with three remaining games separating them from the playoffs. The girls have decided to look at these games in parts. “We want to go out and win all of our games before Curtis and Bethel,” senior Kelsi Bortoluzzi said. The last two games of the season are against Bethel and Curtis, the top two teams in the league. If they do well in the preceding games they could afford losses in the last two and still clinch a playoff berth. Unfortunately, since the team has only made the playoffs once before, the team is left with a lack of experience in the crucial games coming up. In response, Farias is going to his seniors in hopes that their maturity can lead the team forward. “I will start my five seniors and put many of the games in their hands,” Farias said. The senior girls are exited about the task ahead of them.

Senior Ciera Gero goes for the easy layup.

It’s been a busy year for American Studies teacher Cory Evans. He spent a month in Italy over the summer with his long-time girlfriend, Terra Moulton, whom he got engaged to during winter break.

“This is our last year and we do not want to have any regrets,” Bortoluzzi said. With their “no regrets” attitude and timeless preparation the team is ready to finish off a journey that started eight weeks ago and only has one destination in sight: the playoffs.

No longer on the market Newly engaged American Studies teacher Cory Evans brings passion and excitement to the classroom

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KRISTIN WELLENTIN

REPORTER

120 West Main Ave. Puyallup, Washington 98371 253-845-2101 Located next to the Liberty Theatre

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Photo by Katina Mathieson

Just ask Laura!

Known for his big smile and enlightened personality, teacher Cory Evans tries to help each and every student in every way possible. The newly engaged Evans has been a Jaguar since the second year of the school. Evans was born in Olympia and traveled to Ellensburg, where he attended Central Washington University after his two years at South Puget Sound Community College. Evans knew right away he wanted to teach. During his sophomore year in college, Evans’ history and philosophy professor inspired him to become a teacher. “I really liked my professor and wanted to get into history,” Evans said. He volunteered to teach at a local junior high school in Ellensburg while he

was at CWU to get the feeling of managing a classroom. “I learned to really like kids,” Evans said. “That’s when I knew that teaching was what I really wanted to do.” As a senior in college, Evans came to Emerald Ridge for a pre-autumn experience, where the college helps find a teaching location. “I was here for about four to five weeks and was mentored by Cindy Watters and Lisa Kusche,” Evans said. The following year, Evans returned and was a student teacher. Evans enjoyed teaching here at Emerald Ridge as a student teacher and was hired in 2002 to teach American Studies. “I really like the philosophy of the school, and it is very open and encourages students to be an active participant,” Evans said. “There are many available resources and the schedule works out great

“

for each student’s interests.” Many students come in out and of Evans’ American Studies class, and sophomore Colette Keenan really enjoys it. “He is a really cool guy and helps us understand things better,” Keenan said.

I REALLY LIKE THE PHILOSOPHY OF THE SCHOOL. IT IS VERY OPEN AND ENCOURAGES STUDENTS.

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— Cory Evans, American Studies teacher

Also, sophomore Jeff Graves has the opportunity to sit in Evans’ class and learn about history. “Evans is pretty laid back and teaches more into detail,” Graves said. Even though teaching may be what Evans loves to do, he also has other hobbies and interests. Evans reads a lot and says his favorite book is “Lord of the Rings.”

He also goes fishing and plays sports occasionally such as basketball and hiking. “I also love taking trips, whether they’re short or long such as traveling to the beach or going to Europe,” Evans said. Evans took a trip to Italy for a month over the summer and had a lot of fun. This year has been a busy year for Evans, as over winter break he got engaged to long-time girlfriend Terra Moulton. “She is still in school at Evergreen State College and is planning on getting a degree in liberal arts with an English and political science emphasis. After Evergreen, she is going to law school,” Evans said. “We met at SPS Community College the second year and we had an Anthropology class together in the summer,” Evans said. Evans and Moulton have been together since their second year in college. “We plan on getting married in the summer, but we are not sure yet,” Evans said.

2/2/2005 8:49:12 PM

FEATURE

JagWire

Boys basketball comes up short

Student juggles schools BY

BRITTANY GENTILE

REPORTER

Sophomore Emily Potter is home schooled most of the time, but she comes to ERHS to take her electives. “I’ve never been to a school other than this one,” Potter said. “I only take Japanese I and Digital Imaging I.” Potter has a big family. She has three younger brothers and one younger sister. All four of them are home schooled along with her. “My mom thinks that this is better,” Potter said. Potter has no teachers and no tutors at home, but she does have a computer that gives her everything that she needs to do her school work. “I pretty much teach myself,” said Potter. “The computer just gives me all the materials.” She also said that she prefers coming to a public school rather than being home schooled. “Personally, I like being in a public school for a certain amount of classes,” Potter said. But she prefers the hours of being home schooled so she can sleep in a little bit longer. She also likes that she can get her other school work done with more time to herself and without the stress of all the other subjects other students have to take.

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CARISSA CARTER

EDITORIAL BOARD

Coming to a new school for the first time might be exciting for many students, but Potter was terrified.` “I was really scared,” Potter said. “My first day was awful. I was terrified about my first bus ride.” Along with all the school work that she does, she also has time for some after school activities. “I do a lot of church activities,” Potter said. “I am a member of the worship team.” She also enjoys acting. “I like singing,” Potter said. “I sing for a youth group. I do like drama but I’m not involved in any school plays. I haven’t had any opportunities yet.” She thinks that she missed out on many other school activities over the years she was home schooled. “Assemblies, dances, lots of friends,” Potter said. “I had lots of friends when I was home schooled, but now I have more friends.” She thinks that being home schooled actually is harder than public school because she has had to be accountable for getting the projects and homework done on her own with no teacher help. Overall, she likes going to public schools a lot better than being home schooled. “I like the hands-on learning. I think that’s more effective,” Potter said.

Senior Gerry Pickens shoots but is blocked by senior Brandon Gibson, who led Rogers to a 65-54 victory.

A lack of intensity has proven a challenge as the boys basketball team approaches the end of what has turned into a disappointing season. The team is 7-8 as of Feb. 2, putting them in sixth place. The Jaguars contended with tough losses to tough competitors such as Rogers, Federal Way and Puyallup in some of their last and postseason-determining games late in the season. The top five teams in the SPSL South go to the postseason, and the standings have left the Jags and the Rams to fight for that coveted fifth spot. Against Rogers on Jan. 21, the Jags held their own in a back and forth game, trailing at halftime 26-24. In the end, the Jags lost to the Rams 65-54, after being outscored 28-13 in the fourth quarter. It was their second loss to Rogers this season, putting ERHS at a decided disadvantage in the race for the final playoff spot. “When we get ahead early in the game, sometimes we relax and don’t always play hard,” senior forward Donnell Calhoun said. Against Puyallup on Jan. 28, during a low-scoring game, the Jags were outscored every quarter, but kept it close even though the team had 16 turnovers. “Too many turnovers – that gave them more opportunities to score,” senior center Anthony Brennan said “Turnovers killed us.” The Jags lost 46-38, leaving them even at 7-7 facing one of the top competitors, Federal Way, in their next game on Feb. 1. The Jags lost the game 43-40 after a hard-fought battle because of turnovers and lack of offensive rebounds specifically in the second half.

In the game against Federal Way on Jan. 4, in which the team was winning at half by one, things slowly slipped away in the third quarter, and in the fourth quarter ER got outscored 17-10 to lose 59-51. “Guys don’t work hard for all 32 minutes,” senior guard Gerry Pickens said. The team had a total of 31 turnovers that game and 21 personal fouls. Another detriment to the team’s success is its ability to rebound. “We need to take care of the ball better, and take care of rebounding,” coach Bob Horton said. By the end of a game against Bethel on Jan. 8, the Jags had only about half as many rebounds as the Braves, 25-14. The Jags lost 70-55. “We get lazy with our passes,” Calhoun said, who also emphasized blocking opponents out of the key to gain more rebounds. One positive aspect the team does have is spreading out scoring throughout all the starters. Leading the whole game against Spanaway Lake on Jan. 25, with a 19-point lead at half, the Jags had three starting players in double digits. The high scorers were Pickens with 25, Calhoun with 19 and senior forward Colin O’Brien with 17. The Jags won 81-65. The team has endured injuries to players, including Calhoun, which has made for difficulties throughout the season. Calhoun broke his right hand in the game against Beamer on Dec. 7 but returned to play against Beamer on Tuesday Jan. 18. Junior forward Nathan Losch tore a tendon in his ankle which has forced him to miss much of the last half of the season. “The kids have adapted to what we need to do to be successful,” Horton said. Although the team has had its challenges, the players have a good attitude. “They continue to work hard each day and improve, they have a good attitude about the team and the game and they take care of each other,” Horton said.

Sophomore Emily Potter sits on the stairs by a Digital Imaging room. The class is one of two she takes.

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2/2/2005 8:42:06 PM

GRANT WOODRUFF

REPORTER

Affirmative action and laws that govern it influence college admissions, district hiring, and even public contracting. Affirmative action is the concept of giving more opportunities to underrepresented groups to overcome historical prejudices and prevent future discrimination. This does not mean colleges or organizations, for example, have to fill quotas for certain numbers of minorities. In fact quota systems were outlawed by the Supreme Court in Regents of the University of California v. Bakke (1978). All colleges within the state of Washington must comply with I-200, which was passed by Washington voters in 1998. I-200 outlawed preferential treatment in public employment, public education or public contracting on the basis of race, sex, color, ethnicity or national origin. This means that when considering applicants, all colleges in Washington must look only at an applicant’s qualifications. Washington State University, University of Washington and Central Washington University are not allowed to have an affirmative action policy that favors minorities; however, they all say that they encourage diversity on their campuses. In order to achieve diversity without being in violation of I-200, some colleges offer special scholarships. For instance, WSU offers an Academic Achievement/Diversity Scholarship based on an applicant’s family income. CWU seems to offer the most unique diversity scholarship. Called the Academic

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Affirmative Action

Diversity Scholarship, it is awarded to “students who have contributed to a greater understanding of ethnic or cultural diversity in their school or community.” In terms of hiring practices, the Nondiscrimination and Affirmative Action regulation 5010R directs the Puyallup School District. Even though this regulation was not specifically part of the settlement, the Puyallup School District has actively been trying to recruit teachers of different ethnic and cultural backgrounds in an effort to further diversify its staff. Policy revision was a part of the lawsuit settlement alleging racism in the PSD. “Our strategy is to add minority applicants to the hiring pool by advertising in certain publications and with organizations where minorities are likely to notice, and then select the best applicant,” Executive Director of Human Resources Bill Welk said. Counselor Brian Maxfield, who sometimes is involved with hiring committees, said, “Our district is pro-active and (it’s) trying to hire minority teachers.” The Puyallup School District’s affirmative action regulation states that it will not discriminate based on race, creed, religion, color, national origin, age, sex, marital status or disability. However, all qualified applicants with disabilities will not be discriminated against unless it is clear that an accommodation would impose an undue hardship on the operation of the District program.

Practices and policies ensure that minorities get a fair shot at state university admissions and PSD hiring

“Our strategy is to add minority applicants to the hiring pool by advertising … where minorities are likely to notice.” – Bill Welk, PSD executive director of human resources

In reaction to offensive language, political correctness seeks to put an end to verbal abuse and harassment

Remember the old saying, “Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me?” Well, in this day and age, with people becoming increasingly aware of the damage that offensive language can do, this adage might not hold as true as it used to. “Words are powerful; they can leave one in a state of bliss, or in a state of sadness,” Assistant Principal Conchita Oliver-Moore said. As of late, the general public has become aware of this, and, in response has formed an unofficial movement for political correctness. They are making efforts to reduce the amount of hurtful language and actions towards people of all beliefs and backgrounds. According to Merriam-Webster’s dictionary, the term “politically correct” is basically defined as believing that any actions that could offend political sensibilities, like sexist or racist comments, should be eliminated. Of course, as with everything, political correctness is all in the eye of the beholder. While some people think that we still have a long way to go, there are some who think that words can never hurt them. Junior Shantel Lockett, who is African-American, thinks that perhaps not enough is being done to curb the use of offensive language. “I think a lot of teachers give leeway to students,” Lockett said. “Even if they hear it, they’re afraid to come up to the kids as if they don’t have any authority or anything.”

However, there are those who aren’t exposed to offensive language. “With the people I hang out with, I don’t really hear much of it,” said junior Joe Kukla, who is White. There also is the opinion that certain racial slurs are acceptable, but only when exchanged between two people of that race. Lockett thinks that this is absolutely untrue. “I think it’s disrespectful,” Lockett said, “It’s like, ‘Who are you to use that word around me?’ Especially since it was used as a derogatory word. And now we’re using it on ourselves? What sense does that make?” Some students, however, don’t seem to be bothered by it. “That’s their own thing,” Kukla said, “but I don’t talk like that with my friends.” Assistant Principal Jeannine Medvedich thinks that this attitude has been encouraged by the media. “The media makes it look as if it’s ok,” Medvedich said. “Just because it’s in song lyrics doesn’t make it right.” According to Emerald Ridge school policies, racial slurs or any language that could be considered offensive to anyone are considered inappropriate. “Racial slurs are unacceptable for anyone,” said Oliver-Moore, “not even within your own race.” As with every rule, there are some who are bound to break it, or at least test the limits. This includes harassment, assault, and offensive language.

Those who do this at Emerald Ridge are dealt with accordingly. “Our policies aren’t about punishment, they’re about education,” Medvedich said, “We believe that Emerald Ridge students want to be better people.” In the event of a breach of policy, such as verbally assaulting a student or saying something not considered politically correct, on the first offense, a harassment contract is given to both the victim and the persecutor. “We use this contract to say, ‘You’ve had this education before, you know better,’ ” Medvedich said. If a student has received this education but continues to behave in an offensive way, the administration is quite a bit stricter. How repeat offenses are handled depends on the severity and context. “We have a zero-tolerance policy,” Oliver-Moore said. “A second offense may be punished with suspension or expulsion.” Harassment of any kind is against state and federal law; so on top of suspension or expulsion, repeat offenders could be arrested, depending on the severity of their actions. In the meantime, Medvedich and Oliver-Moore seem to think that Emerald Ridge is heading in the right direction. They have seen students working to help with the problem. “As a whole, we’re more accepting, more cognizant,” Medvedich said.

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Culture Affirmative Action Expectation Bigotry Diversity Ethnicity Heritage Tradition Ethnic Group Preconception Nation People Understanding Narrow-Mindedness Relationship Identity Love Tolerance Justice Community Intolerance Bias Impartiality Influence Beliefs Equality Background Skin Customs Ethos Nationality Self Racism Privilege Guilt Interracial Politically Correct Variety Tribe Hate Inclusion Respect Ignorance Ability Intelligence Stereotypes Apprehension Attitude Experience Advantage Differences Threats Gaps Generations Color Confidence Pride Hope Friendship Pressure Judgment Humanity Motivation Personality Struggle Appearance Intimidation Human Being Civilization Sympathy Compassion Arrogance Barriers Spirit Bridges Problems Comfort Open-Mindedness Concern Racial Makeup Rituals Practices Logic Thoughts Opinions Awareness Self Confidence Fear Dignity Shape Inspiration Exclusion Similarities Change Forward Thinking World Race Prejudice Discrimination Perseverance Culture Affirmative Action Expectation Bigotry Diversity Ethnicity Heritage Tradition Ethnic Group Preconception Nation People Understanding Narrow-Mindedness Relationship Identity Love Tolerance Justice Community Intolerance Bias Impartiality Influence Beliefs Equality Background Skin Customs Ethos Nationality Self Racism Privilege Guilt Interracial Politically Correct Variety Tribe Hate Inclusion Respect Ignorance Ability Intelligence Stereotypes Apprehension Attitude Experience Advantage Differences Threats Gaps Generations Color Confidence Pride Hope Friendship Pressure Judgment Humanity Motivation Personality Struggle Appearance Intimidation Human Being Civilization Sympathy Compassion Arrogance Barriers Spirit Bridges Problems Comfort Open-Mindedness Concern Racial Makeup Rituals Practices Logic Thoughts Opinions Awareness Self Confidence Fear Dignity Shape Inspiration Exclusion Similarities Change Forward Thinking World Race Prejudice Discrimination Perseverance Culture Affirmative Action Expectation Bigotry Diversity Ethnicity Heritage Tradition Ethnic Group Preconception Nation People Understanding NarrowMindedness Relationship Identity Love Tolerance Justice Community Intolerance Bias Impartiality Influence Beliefs Equality Background Skin Customs Ethos Nationality Self Racism Privilege Guilt Interracial Politically Correct Variety Tribe Hate Inclusion Respect Ignorance Ability Intelligence Stereotypes Apprehension Attitude Experience Advantage Differences Threats Gaps Generations Color Confidence Pride Hope Friendship Pressure Judgment Humanity Motivation Personality Struggle Appearance Intimidation Human Being Civilization Sympathy Compassion Arrogance Barriers Spirit Bridges Problems Comfort Open-Mindedness Concern Racial Makeup Rituals Practices Logic Thoughts Opinions Awareness Self Confidence Fear Dignity Shape Inspiration Exclusion Similarities Change Forward Thinking World Race Prejudice Discrimination Perseverance Culture Affirmative Action Expectation Bigotry Diversity Ethnicity Heritage Tradition Ethnic Group Preconception Nation People Understanding Narrow-Mindedness Relationship Identity Love Tolerance Justice Community Intolerance Bias Impartiality Influence Beliefs Equality Background Skin Customs Ethos Nationality Self Racism Privilege Guilt Interracial Politically Correct Variety Tribe Hate Inclusion Respect Ignorance Ability Intelligence Stereotypes Apprehension Attitude Experience Advantage Differences Threats Gaps Generations Color Confidence Pride Hope Friendship Pressure Judgment Humanity Motivation Personality Struggle Appearance Intimidation Human Being Civilization Sympathy Compassion Arrogance Barriers Spirit Bridges Problems Comfort Open-Mindedness Concern Racial Makeup Rituals Practices Logic Thoughts Opinions Awareness Self Confidence Fear Dignity Shape Inspiration Exclusion Similarities Change Forward Thinking World Race Prejudice Discrimination Perseverance Culture Affirmative Action Expectation Bigotry Diversity Ethnicity Heritage Tradition Ethnic Group Preconception Nation People Understanding Narrow-Mindedness Relationship Identity Love Tolerance Justice Community Intolerance Bias Impartiality Influence Beliefs Equality Background Skin Customs Ethos Nationality Self Racism Privilege Guilt Interracial Politically Correct Variety Tribe Hate Inclusion Respect Ignorance Ability Intelligence Stereotypes Apprehension Attitude Experience Advantage Differences Threats Gaps Generations Color Confidence Pride Hope Friendship Pressure Judgment Humanity Motivation Personality Struggle Appearance Intimidation Human Being Civilization Sympathy Compassion Arrogance Barriers Spirit Bridges Problems Comfort Open-Mindedness Concern Racial Makeup Rituals Practices Logic Thoughts Opinions Awareness Self Confidence Fear Dignity Shape Inspiration Exclusion Similarities Change Forward Thinking World Race Prejudice Discrimination Perseverance Culture Affirmative Action Expectation Bigotry Diversity Ethnicity Heritage Tradition Ethnic Group Preconception Nation People Understanding Narrow-Mindedness Relationship Identity Love Tolerance Justice Community Intolerance Bias Impartiality Influence Beliefs Equality Background Skin Customs Ethos Nationality Self Racism Privilege Guilt Interracial Politically Correct Variety Tribe Hate Inclusion Respect Ignorance Ability Intelligence Stereotypes Apprehension Attitude Experience Advantage Differences Threats Gaps Generations Color Confidence Pride Hope Friendship Pressure Judgment Humanity Motivation Personality Struggle Appearance Intimidation Human Being Civilization Sympathy Compassion Arrogance Barriers Spirit Bridges Problems Comfort OpenMindedness Concern Racial Makeup Rituals Practices Logic Thoughts Opinions Awareness Self Confidence Fear Dignity Shape Inspiration Exclusion Similarities Change Forward Thinking World Race Prejudice Discrimination Perseverance Culture Affirmative Action Expectation Bigotry Diversity Ethnicity Heritage Tradition Ethnic Group Preconception Nation People Understanding Narrow-Mindedness Relationship Identity Love Tolerance Justice Community Intolerance Bias Impartiality Influence Beliefs Equality Background Skin Customs Ethos Nationality Self Racism Privilege Guilt Interracial Politically Correct Variety Tribe Hate Inclusion Respect Ignorance Ability Intelligence Stereotypes Apprehension Attitude Experience Advantage Differences Threats Gaps Generations Color Confidence Pride Hope Friendship Pressure Judgment Humanity Motivation Personality Struggle Appearance Intimidation Human Being Civilization Sympathy Compassion Arrogance Barriers Spirit Bridges Problems Comfort Open-Mindedness Concern Racial Makeup Rituals Practices Logic Thoughts Opinions Awareness Self Confidence Fear Dignity Shape Inspiration Exclusion Similarities Change Forward Thinking World Race Prejudice Discrimination Perseverance Culture Affirmative Action Expectation Bigotry Diversity Ethnicity Heritage Tradition Ethnic Group Preconception Nation People Understanding Narrow-Mindedness Relationship Identity Love Tolerance Justice Community Intolerance Bias Impartiality Influence Beliefs Equality Background Skin Customs Ethos Nationality Self Racism Privilege Guilt Interracial Politically Correct Variety Tribe Hate Inclusion Respect Ignorance Ability Intelligence Stereotypes Apprehension Attitude Experience Advantage Differences Threats Gaps Generations Color Confidence Pride Hope Friendship Pressure Judgment Humanity Motivation Personality Struggle Appearance Intimidation Human Being Civilization Sympathy Compassion Arrogance Barriers Spirit Bridges Problems Comfort Open-Mindedness Concern Racial Makeup Rituals Practices Logic Thoughts Opinions Awareness Self Confidence Fear Dignity Shape Inspiration Exclusion Similarities Change Forward Thinking World Race Prejudice Discrimination Perseverance Culture Affirmative Action Expectation Bigotry Diversity Ethnicity Heritage Tradition Ethnic Group Preconception Nation People Understanding Narrow-Mindedness Relationship Identity Love Tolerance Justice Community Intolerance Bias Impartiality Influence Beliefs Equality Background Skin Customs Ethos Nationality Self Racism Privilege Guilt Interracial Politically Correct Variety Tribe Hate Inclusion Respect Ignorance Ability Intelligence Stereotypes Apprehension Attitude Experience Advantage Differences Threats Gaps Generations Color Confidence Pride Hope Friendship Pressure Judgment Humanity Motivation Personality Struggle Appearance Intimidation Human Being Civilization Sympathy Compassion Arrogance Barriers Spirit Bridges Problems Comfort OpenMindedness Concern Racial Makeup Rituals Practices Logic Thoughts Opinions Awareness Self Confidence Fear Dignity Shape Inspiration Exclusion Similarities Change Forward Thinking World Race Prejudice Discrimination Perseverance Culture Affirmative Action Expectation Bigotry Diversity Ethnicity Heritage Tradition Ethnic Group Preconception Nation People Understanding Narrow-Mindedness Relationship Identity Love Tolerance Justice Community Intolerance Bias Impartiality Influence Beliefs Equality Background Skin Customs Ethos Nationality Self Racism Privilege Guilt Interracial Politically Correct Variety Tribe Hate Inclusion Respect Ignorance Ability Intelligence Stereotypes Apprehension Attitude Experience Advantage Differences Threats Gaps Generations Color Confidence Pride Hope Friendship Pressure Judgment Humanity Motivation Personality Struggle Appearance Intimidation Human Being Civilization Sympathy Compassion Arrogance Barriers Spirit Bridges Problems Comfort Open-Mindedness Concern Racial Makeup Rituals Practices Logic Thoughts Opinions Awareness Self Confidence Fear Dignity Shape Inspiration Exclusion Similarities Change Forward Thinking World Race Prejudice Discrimination Perseverance Culture Affirmative Action Expectation Bigotry Diversity Ethnicity Heritage Tradition Ethnic Group Preconception Nation People Understanding Narrow-Mindedness Relationship Identity Love Tolerance Justice Community Intolerance Bias Impartiality Influence Beliefs Equality Background Skin Customs Ethos Nationality Self Racism Privilege Guilt Interracial Politically Correct Variety Tribe Hate Inclusion Respect Ignorance Ability Intelligence Stereotypes Apprehension Attitude Experience Advantage Differences Threats Gaps Generations Color Confidence Pride Hope Friendship Pressure Judgment Humanity Motivation Personality Struggle Appearance Intimidation Human Being Civilization Sympathy Compassion Arrogance Barriers Spirit Bridges Problems Comfort OpenMindedness Concern Racial Makeup Rituals Practices Logic Thoughts Opinions Awareness Self Confidence Fear Dignity Shape Inspiration Exclusion Similarities Change Forward Thinking World Race Prejudice Discrimination Perseverance Culture Affirmative Action Expectation Bigotry Diversity Ethnicity Heritage Tradition Ethnic Group Preconception Nation People Understanding Narrow-Mindedness Relationship Identity Love Tolerance Justice Community Intolerance Bias Impartiality Influence Beliefs Equality Background Skin Customs Ethos Nationality Self Racism Privilege Guilt Interracial Politically Correct Variety Tribe Hate Inclusion Respect Ignorance Ability Intelligence Stereotypes Apprehension Attitude Experience Advantage Differences Threats Gaps Generations Color Confidence Pride Hope Friendship Pressure Judgment Humanity Motivation Personality Struggle Appearance Intimidation Human Being Civilization Sympathy Compassion Arrogance Barriers Spirit Bridges Problems Comfort OpenMindedness Concern Racial Makeup Rituals Practices Logic Thoughts Opinions Awareness Self Confidence Fear Dignity Shape Inspiration Exclusion Similarities Change Forward Thinking World Race Prejudice Discrimination Perseverance Culture Affirmative Action Expectation Bigotry Diversity Ethnicity Heritage Tradition Ethnic Group Preconception Nation People Understanding Narrow-Mindedness Relationship Identity Love Tolerance Justice Community Intolerance Bias Impartiality Influence Beliefs Equality Background Skin Customs Ethos Nationality Self Racism Privilege Guilt Interracial Politically Correct Variety Tribe Hate Inclusion Respect Ignorance Ability Intelligence Stereotypes Apprehension Attitude Experience Advantage Differences Threats Gaps Generations Color Confidence Pride Hope Friendship Pressure Judgment Humanity Motivation Personality Struggle Appearance Intimidation Human Being Civilization Sympathy Compassion Arrogance Barriers Spirit Bridges Problems Comfort Open-Mindedness Concern Racial Makeup Rituals Practices Logic Thoughts Opinions Awareness Self Confidence Fear Dignity Shape Inspiration Exclusion Similarities Change Forward Thinking World Race Prejudice Discrimination Perseverance Culture Affirmative Action Expectation Bigotry Diversity Ethnicity Heritage Tradition Ethnic Group Preconception Nation People Understanding Narrow-Mindedness Relationship Identity Love Tolerance Justice Community Intolerance Bias Impartiality Influence Beliefs Equality Background Skin Customs Ethos Nationality Self Racism Privilege Guilt Interracial Politically Correct Variety Tribe Hate Inclusion Respect Ignorance Ability Intelligence Stereotypes Apprehension Attitude Experience Advantage Differences Threats Gaps Generations Color Confidence Pride Hope Friendship Pressure Judgment Humanity Motivation Personality Struggle Appearance Intimidation Human Being Civilization Sympathy Compassion Arrogance Barriers Spirit Bridges Problems Comfor t Open-Mindedness Concern Racial Makeup Rituals Practices Logic Thoughts Opinions Awareness Love Confidence Fear Dignity Shape

In JagWire’s five-year history, we have endeavored to examine hard-hitting topics ranging from sex to self-image, art to alcohol, religion to respect. In these five years, however, JagWire has never touched on the one matter which perhaps most shapes the world in which we live:

Caucasian Asian Hispanic African-American Pacific Islander Latino Greek Native American White Black Other

Each story will revolve around a different aspect of racial diversity as it relates to Emerald Ridge and Puyallup. We understand the issue of race is extremely complex; this focus is only an attempt to begin what we hope will become a long-term dialogue. Acknowledging the issue of race through conversation removes stigma and is the first step toward understanding. We recognize the sensitive nature of racial “labels” and have tried to use the most recent terminologies when identifying racial affiliation. For consistency, we have elected to use the terms White, AfricanAmerican, Asian, Latino, and Native American. When possible, we will give more specific racial information about an individual.

Sticks and Stones

18,11.indd 2-3

2/2/2005 8:47:34 PM

Evolution of a ‘Dream’ BY

KAITLYN GOLDEN

REPORTER

With the fifth annual Martin Luther King Jr. Tribute assembly and Black History month just around the corner, the ‘Dream’ is becoming a reality at Emerald Ridge

Most students understand the importance of the Martin Luther King Jr. assembly at Emerald Ridge but not how it became so important to students and teachers or what else both the district and school do to celebrate diversity. The first adviser of the Multicultural Club, Condee Holbrook, says it was an accident that the assembly became a big deal. “It was kind of an accident that it turned into a big deal,” Holbrook said. “I was the adviser for the Multicultural Club during the first year of Emerald Ridge (2000-01). That fall I was taking a class at (University of Washington) Tacoma on Martin Luther King Jr. and his life. “The class inspired me to teach the student body about Dr. King – beyond the typical ‘I Have a Dream’ speech – because there was so much more to his life than that one moment. The students in the club were eager to put on a more thorough assembly about King, but they wanted it to be full of music, video and student talent. That’s how it turned into a multi-media event.” The club then created a planning committee in October of that year which sat down and looked at bringing in performers to sing and dance. However, that fell through and it ended up being only students. The Multicultural Club wanted the assembly to be more like a play than a presentation, which ended up making it more powerful. Most students and staff enjoyed the assembly. “The next year there was a lot of pressure to make the assembly better, so we went a little overboard,” Holbrook said. “We ended up making the mural that now hangs in the commons. This year, (we did) that same assembly with a different mural and a few other changes, but it (was) basically the same.” This year’s assembly was about both the life of Martin Luther King Jr. and the racial injustice done to African-Americans in the past. It was directed by Holbrook and current Multicultural Club adviser Cindy Watters, but was mostly planned by students. Senior Faustine Im has been involved in the assembly for the past three years. “Being in the assembly has made me more culturally diverse,” Im said. “I love (the assembly) because it makes you know what people have been through. I’m more of a diverse person now, and I’ve opened my eyes to some of the things that AfricanAmericans have been through.” Now, both Holbrook and Watters hope to not have to invent a new assembly every year, so that when they are no longer at Emerald Ridge, the assembly can still be a success. “We want to create a three-year cycle of assemblies that teachers and students can put on year after year because a lot of the students that have been really involved in it in the past are leaving

12,17.indd 2-3

this year,” Watters said. Although Martin Luther King Jr.’s birthday occurs in January, February is Black History Month. The Puyallup School District does not do anything as a whole to celebrate Black History Month, but Superintendent Tony Apostle encourages schools to give the month recognition. “We really encourage schools, through the principal, to celebrate diversity and conduct activities to give recognition to Dr. King and other prominent African-American leaders during Black History Month,” Apostle said. Principal Brian Lowney believes we should do things not only for Black History Month, but for all other months that are represented by a group of people. “Students are organizing our Black History Month celebrations, and we ought to be doing something for every day, week, month that represents a group of people,” Lowney said. “At a school I once worked at, we would have movie nights once a month with a theme relating to whatever month it was. “For example, during Women’s History Month, we showed ‘A League of Their Own’ in the auditorium, and students could come and watch it and have popcorn and have meaningful conversations. I’d love to see something like that started at Emerald Ridge.” One thing that is being done to expand the diversity within our own school is being done in the Junior English course. “The Junior English course is based on multicultural American literature,” said Junior English teacher Brandi Groce. “Basically, it’s American literature, but it’s not all white guys. We’re trying to focus on common things shared by all people, not just people of a certain race.” Other positive things that are being done within our school district for diversity is the creation of a Site Level Equity Resolution Council (SLERC) in every school. The SLERC is a group of students and staff looking at diversity issues within the school. The SLERC has been created as part of the injunctive relief from the lawsuit a few years ago. Watters and Groce will be leading this group. The group of students has not yet been created, but the first meeting happened a week ago. “Our goal is to bring together a group of students to deal with issues of bullying and harassment in our school,” Groce said. These students also will be training both teachers and students to prevent and deal with issues of harassment. They also will mediate conflicts between students. If you are interested in joining SLERC, talk to Lowney, Groce or Watters.

“We really encourage schools, through the principal, to celebrate diversity and conduct activities to give recognition to Dr. King and other prominent AfricanAmerican leaders during Black History Month” -Superintendent Tony Apostle

VIEWS FROM BOTH SIDES

CONTRASTING EXPERIENCES FROM CONTRASTING RACES

am White. With blonde hair, and blue eyes, I am White. I was born with invisible qualities that determine social privileges, whether I have realized it or not. To us, who remain a peachish, creamy beige color, we often fail to recognize privileges we are given every day – just because we’re White. Hidden within the social structures we abide by, racism still remains a valid issue, White privilege being a source of this concern. White privilege can be defined as a system of advantages and social “rights” that are given to those classified as “White.” To my White readers, you may not be aware of these privileges. Maybe you’ve never considered racism to be a problem, especially one that needs to be addressed. Racism is bigger than just a slur or an off-color joke. Because of this, I feel I must inform you about White privilege, for its existence must be known in order to destroy its cycle of socially degrading practices. Have you ever sat down at lunch, feeling obligated to sit with those of your own skin color? Have you ever felt like you needed to reconsider working at certain clothing stores because of your race? Have you ever really felt rejected because you’re White? Have you even had to worry about feeling racially singled out? Ever? I’m sure that about 85 percent of our student population would have to answer no to these questions, because about 85 percent is White. But the other 15 percent who don’t have the privilege of having White skin know exactly what it does feel like to be singled out – to be rejected. That’s White privilege.

“When you think of popular people, they’re usually White,” said junior Danielle Hintz, who is African-American and White. “I almost felt out of place when I went into Hollister just because just about everyone who works there is White.” Even as I conducted interviews, I hated discussing it with my African-American friends. When I asked if they ever had been put in an awkward situation because of their race, their face told me they felt uncomfortable even being asked that. “Now would be a moment,” said African-American senior Michelle Fikilini. But here’s the paradox in all of this: Racism occurs each day of our lives. Racism does not necessitate speech. Systemic racism has been woven into our culture; this form of racism ensures that Whites, who have more power, stay in power. The definition of racism we have been familiarized with since birth – which relegates racism to isolated acts of hatred – has made us subject to systemic racism. Racist assumptions are perpetually made through our classification of races, with Whites being the top of this system. Honestly, have you ever thought, “Oh that’s Sunrise Estates, where all the wealthy African-Americans live”? Or have you ever considered to yourself, “That’s downtown Tacoma – those Whites are real bad down there”? I’m sure not. This is because we, in our culture of systemic racism, have been implanted with a stereotypical definition of what AfricanAmericans and Whites should be. In a roundtable discussion consisting of seven white students, difficult questions surrounding White privilege were Tayzha Fox asked. The first: “Do you benefit from being White?” Commentary “It’s definitely easier to make friends,” one said. “We definitely have an advantage when we meet elders,” said another. “I can walk through Parkland without having people think I’m going to mug them. But with a Black person, they probably will think that,” said yet another. I asked them to think about this advantage. I questioned if they had ever been placed in an awkward situation due to their race. “In places like Seattle, where you go out at night, you’re the only person outside,” said one. The rest were silent. As some of the White privileges were then listed off – ranging from being able to turn on a television and see a positive role model of your race, to being able to find Band-Aids that match your skin – a heavy sense of boredom filled the room. “I think the Band-Aid one was a little farfetched. They don’t even blend into my own skin,” one said. This comment allowed me to see how this “White privilege” seems to take effect … by not taking effect at all. Although seeming like an off-handed remark by a wellmeaning student, defending Band-Aids and dismissing any sensation of White guilt simply confirmed this idea that she was benefiting from these white privileges. Beyond that, this verbal dismissal of White privilege indicates an unwillingness to give this benefit up. Now that we have this idea of White privilege, we have a certain duty to do something about it – assuming you do want it to go away. But you who are White, do you really want it to go away? I imagine not. But maybe – like me – you do. Maybe you’ll recognize it the next time you see a segregated lunch room. Maybe you’ll say “hello” next time you see a man walking alone on the side of the road who isn’t the same color as you. “In order for things to change, the White people will have to make things work,” said Hintz. “We need to also talk to them, but it’s more awkward for us.” Meet this challenge. As a White person, which you likely are if you’re reading this at Emerald Ridge, it is your obligation to do so. You, after all, have the power. I challenge you to look at racism from a different perspective. I challenge you to be keenly aware of this “White right” of unearned advantages and unjust liberties. If you say you won’t, I suppose you can just pretend to live in ignorance – “unaware” of these social benefits – and do something as simple as not doing anything. But if you did that, I’d have to say arrogance – an unwillingness to pursue true equality – would be taking the place of a once-ignorant outlook on this subject of White privilege. Excuses to remain “ignorant” can be made, almost like a ritual – a means of life for many Whites. After all, they benefit from this system of racism. So I challenge you to do something about it. You now have an obligation. 17

2/2/2005 8:43:23 PM

Accepted?

When it comes to relationships, the sensitive issue of race gets even more complicated. Students speak out on what it means to date interracially at ER BY

ELAINE RAYMOND

REPORTER

Several years ago, interracial dating was accepted only by a limited few. Today, many people have become more tolerant; however, there are those still who firmly believe it is wrong. According to a survey conducted by JagWire among Emerald Ridge students, 74 percent of those surveyed said they would date outside of their race, with just 4.7 percent of respondents saying interracial dating is not acceptable under any circumstances. One hundred seventy one students were surveyed through a number of senior, junior and sophomore advisories. Some may agree with interracial dating, yet still do not partake. Senior Mikela Kiely, who is White, said she is not allowed to date interracially, and disagrees with it. She said it is because of a generational gap in her family and the environment in which that generation was raised. “I don’t think you should judge someone from what they look like,” Kiely said. Senior Jiavani Waldren, who is mixed, including African-American and Filipino, agrees. “It seems silly to me,” Waldren said. “If you like someone, what difference does it make?” African-American senior Ciera Gero agrees: “You can’t be closedminded. You don’t know who your soul mate is.” According to senior Hayley Cecil, who is White and currently involved in an interracial relationship, students are generally accepting. “Nobody says anything to me,” Cecil said. “I don’t think it’s a big deal.” However, Waldren dated a White student, and it did not go unnoticed. “People pointed it out a lot, but I don’t think they were upset about it,” Waldren said. Kiely believes that you cannot let the fact that others may not approve prevent you from dating who you want. “Some people don’t agree with it,” Kiely said. “You can’t let that stop you.” Waldren is one not to let the opinions of others interfere with her decisions. “I’ve never not dated interracially,” said Waldren, who specified it’s because of the racial makeup of the community, not because of personal preference. “I’m Kenyan, Filipino, a little Spanish and White. It’s hard to find someone of the same race. It’s just a coincidence.” However, there are those who consciously choose whether they date outside of their race or not. Of students surveyed, 17.6 percent said they are not willing to date interracially. Thirteen percent of those said that interracial dating was OK for others, but not right for themselves. Studies conducted by College Student Journal show some races are more willing to date interracially than other, with particular differences between African-Americans and Whites. African-American students are more willing to date interracially than White students, and those statistics seem to bear out at ER, where 87.5 percent of African-American students agree with interracial dating compared to 67.5 percent of White students. “African-Americans are more open-minded to dating outside of their race,” Gero said. In addition to conflict in opinion on the morality of interracial dating, there is disagreement over whether those who oppose it are racist. “I don’t know whether it’s a racist opinion,” Kiely said. “I don’t see it like that.” Waldren disagrees. She believes that opposing interracial dating is a form of racism. “It’s a negative view,” Waldren said. “Not a way to think.”

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Racism: Still an issue at ER? BY

JESSICA RITCHIE

REPORTER

To a newcomer at Emerald Ridge, students seem accepting – even welcoming. “People are kind,” said junior Ai Takaki, who is a foreign exchange student from Japan. “They’re really accepting.” Assistant Principal Conchita Oliver-Moore leaned towards agreeing. “I’ve been here for three years and I personally have not witnessed any racism or discrimination in my role as an administrator,” she said. “It is hard for me to say because I am not in the crowds.” Oliver-Moore thought that it was safe to say that the knowledge that racism exists isn’t a huge problem at Emerald Ridge. “I feel our students are very aware,” Oliver-Moore said. Despite that perception, racism and discrimination might be bigger problems at Emerald Ridge than students and staff realize. “We would be naive to believe racism does not exist at our school,” Oliver-Moore said. A survey administered by JagWire in mid-January seems to confirm that. One hundred seventy one students from 10 advisories of

varying grade levels were surveyed, and 77 percent of African-Americans reported having felt “racially discriminated against” – which the survey said could include name calling, racial slurs, fighting, graffiti, etc. – at some point at Emerald Ridge. Additionally, 60 percent of Asians surveyed reported feeling the same way, along with 66 percent of Native Americans and 20 percent of Latinos. “Racism is everywhere, whether you know it or not,” said junior Matt An. “I’ve been stereotyped a couple of times. I don’t feel angry against people who stereotype me, but it goes back to discrimination. I hate that. Sometimes the stereotyping gets excessive. Because I’m Asian, (people) will ask a question they know I don’t know the answer to.” Approximately 62 percent of all students surveyed said they had witnessed what they considered “racially discriminatory actions” at Emerald Ridge. Of those that said they have witnessed racism, 39 percent said they have seen it four times or more. Twenty-eight percent said they themselves had at some point felt racially discriminated against. Despite this, an approximate 85 percent of respondents did not think racism was a problem at Emerald Ridge. “There aren’t as many fights or arguments as in other schools that involve racism,” said sophomore Krysta Pero-

zzo, who is White. “I’ve just never viewed it (racism) and I haven’t had any problems with it.” Sophomore John Lopez, who is Mexican, agreed. “It doesn’t really seem like a problem because it’s not like the White people and Black people are fighting,” he said. The opinion of junior Ashley Christensen, who is White, couldn’t contrast more. “I think the community has developed an innocence to racism. And it wouldn’t surprise me that people raised here don’t notice it,” she said. However, of the remaining 15 percent who thought racism was a problem, only 17 percent thought enough was being done to solve it. “Preventing acts of hatred and violence is a responsibility of all people, not just teachers. We’re not with (students) all the time,” said Marya Gingrey, Puyallup School District director of diversity affairs. “Are issues of inequity and -isms an issue in this nation? Of course they are. However, not all parts of the nation are that way. I think the few bad things often outweigh the good.” Emerald Ridge takes a zero-tolerance approach to racism, Oliver-Moore said. “We are strictly opposed to any racial harassment, or harassment of any kind. It is not tolerated,” she said.

PSD endeavors to combat racism BY

JAMES STANFORD AND DREW SCOTT

EDIRORIAL BOARD AND REPORTER

The Washington State School Director’s Association has given the Puyallup School District a diversity award for its efforts to promote diversity and multicultural education in conjunction with a lawsuit filed in 2002. The award was presented at a Puyallup School Board meeting on Jan. 10. In order for the district to apply for the award, it had to submit an essay that described its steps to promote diversity and equality. “In its essay, the district noted that it has taken ‘giant steps forward’ in the past two years in its quest to eliminate prejudice, bigotry and discrimination,” according to the WSSDA Website. The WSSDA Website went on to say the Puyallup School District has been adding and expanding old programs and founding new councils to ensure equality within its schools. It established an Office of Diversity Affairs, added a cabinet-level position dedicated only to diversity issues and also updated its district policies. “The district also cited a number of new or expanded programs, including a readaloud curriculum that integrates 26 books into a cultural awareness series for elementary students and a Learning Circles program to address the needs of Native American students. The district formed a new Ethnic Minority Parent Community Council to advise the superintendent’s cabinet and increase communication, and it partnered with

the local Urban League to conduct workshops aimed at helping parents be more involved in their children’s academic growth,” the Website said. The school board will continue to work to promote equality within the Puyallup School District. “We are very proud of all the work that went into earning the award,” said Bruce Dammeier, president of the Puyallup School District board of directors. “We’ve come a long ways, but we still have a ways to go.” Many of these changes were brought about because of the $7.5 million settlement of a lawsuit brought against the district alleging institutionalized discrimination. Fifty-nine plaintiffs claimed the district tolerated and encouraged a hostile environment towards African-American students. Most of the incidents mentioned in the lawsuit took place at Puyallup High School. Three main incidents mentioned in the lawsuit involved a White student painting

his face black for the school’s senior class picture. A month later, there was a fighting incident at the school’s parking lot between White and African-American students. Soon after, the district received a telephone call saying that all African-American students were going to be killed at the school. During the investigation, there were a few complaints filed in relation to the lawsuit, as well. An African-American girl from Ballou Junior High was called the “n” word while on a school bus. After the transition from junior high to Rogers, the same student witnessed a student saying the “n” word at a Martin Luther King Jr. assembly during

the viewing of a documentary based on the 1960s Civil Rights Movement. In addition, her younger sister also experienced racial harassment. While at Zieger Elementary, she was called “chocolate” by a White student. “I think, in general, the lawsuit drew attention to an issue that plagues our nation,” said Marya Gingrey, Puyallup School District director of diversity affairs. “Many people think that egregious acts of discrimination ended with the passage of the Civil Rights Act. The lawsuit pointed out that, whether perceived or actual, acts of discrimination still occur and that no community is immune from addressing this issue.”

2/2/2005 8:45:45 PM

Students and professionals speak out on the make-up of race and its role in identity Fifty years ago, the Supreme Court of the United States banned segregation in education. Yet, some observe that when one examines schools today, segregation still is very much apparent, although voluntary. At schools across the country, cafeterias are ample proof that segregation by race is apparent. Upon further examination, some say Emerald Ridge is no different. “Ethnic divides are obvious,” said senior Holly Vanderlinda, who is White. “If you look around the cafeteria for example, the majority of people sit with people who are of the same ethnicity. It’s a natural thing.” Junior Ishae Gainous, who is African-American, said, “I sit with my Black friends because we all can identify with each other. I think part of the reason there are racial divisions sometimes is because people classify and put you into a group, and so to feel comfortable and have a sense of belonging and acceptance you go hang out with that group.” Some have asked if this is a bad thing. According to psychologist Beverly Tatum, Ph.D., who is president of Spelman College in Atlanta, Ga. and author of the book, “Why Are All the Black Kids Sitting Together In the Cafeteria?” this may not necessarily be the case. “We need to understand that in racially mixed settings, racial grouping is a development process in response to an environmental stressor, racism,” Tatum said in her book. “Joining with one’s peers for support in the face of stress is a positive coping strategy. What is problematic is that young people are operating with a very limited definition of what it means to be a certain race, based largely on cultural stereotypes.” Tatum addresses a very complex and fairly unknown issue: Racial identity. Racial identity is a sense of group or collective identity based on the perception that one shares a common racial heritage with a particular group. Racial identity includes the adoption of personal behaviors and identification with a group of people with similar characteristics. It is defined as the degree to which a person feels connected to or shares commonalties with an ethnic or racial group. “You feel comfortable when you’re around people like you,” said

85%

AMMA BOFA

REPORTER

junior Trixie Toms, who is African-American. Race and racial identification always have been confusing concepts and result in one asking complex questions such as, “Who am I?”, “Who can I be?”, “Who I am ethnically and/or racially?”, “What do I look like?”, “What do other people think I am?”, “What does it mean to be African-American, White, Asian, Latino?”, and “How should I act?” According to Tatum, in adolescence, as race becomes personally relevant, finding answers to these questions is particularly important. The development of racial identity is influenced by many persons and factors. Psychologist William E. Cross describes racial identity as being influenced by social structures such as family, church, and school. Cross also states the perception of one’s racial identity varies from being negative to neutral to more positive. “Who we perceive as sharing our identity may be influenced by other dimensions of identity such as gender, social class, geographical location, skin color or ethnicity,” said Stacey Marshall, a student researcher at Spelman College. Marshall continued: “The history of racial categorization in America has an impact on all individuals whether they realize it or not. Racial classifications are in some ways troublesome because they are a product of an institutionalized legacy of efforts to assign people a place in an economic and social hierarchy.” The point Marshall makes here is that people are treated unfairly because of their race and this has become a part of the normal behavior of society. The practice of policies that afford privileges to Whites over people of color is known as institutionalized racism. The culturally superior attitudes caused by institutionalized racism support stereotypes, which make it easy to classify people by skin color and not character. By failing to question and challenge institutionalized racism, it is preserved. Furthermore, Tatum points out that our self-perceptions are shaped by the messages that we receive from those around us. As people become more aware of the significance of race, they must grapple with what it means to be a member of a certain racial group. Many times, the stereotypical images in pop culture are reflected in one’s own self-presentation.

WHAT ER STUDENTS SAY ABOUT RACE

of respondents did not think racism was a problem at ER

IDENTITY: BEYOND THE MIRROR

“Black kids think of themselves more in terms of race than White kids because that’s how the rest of the world thinks of us,” Gainous said. In her book, “Identities in High School,” University of CaliforniaSanta Cruz sociologist Pamela Perry explains that for White youth, coming to terms with being White in an increasingly diverse U.S. society can be a painful and contradictory experience marked by feelings of guilt and privilege. Perry explains that racial identity formation among Whites varies dramatically in proximity to students of color. She emphasizes that merely interacting with students of different races and ethnic backgrounds in a multicultural school is not enough to counter the forces of racism that persist in American society. “We need to understand the formation of racial identity in multiracial settings and what’s happening in schools that contributes to racism,” Perry said. “In this day and age, schools need to nurture a generation of young people able to live and work together with dignity and respect.” In her book, Perry concludes that the formation of White racial identity is a textured, complex, and contradictory experience. “Being White requires young people to examine their privileged positions in U.S. society, grapple on a daily basis with feelings of guilt and relief, struggle with competing personal and social values, and come to terms with the nation’s legacy of racial injustice,” she said. Scholars argue that to fully understand race, people must understand it in all of its manifestations and, on some level, they must learn to accept why people situate themselves where they do. Regardless of what ethnicity people are, racial identity matters because it not only allows people to understand their culture, it makes them unique individuals. “The developmental need to explore the meaning of one’s identity with others who are engaged in similar processes manifests itself informally in school corridors and cafeterias across the country,” Tatum writes. “Society sees and acts through race. Eventually, we all have to make sense of our ethnicity and its place in our lives.”

Stereotypes threaten individuality and result in lower expectations BY

ANNA BOFA

REPORTER

77% of African-Americans surveyed at ER have felt “racially discriminated against”

62% of surveyed students said they have witnessed “racially discriminatory actions”

4.7% of respondents said interracial dating wasn’t acceptable under any circumstances

14,15.indd 2-3

Race. It’s a four-letter word that has created controversy, influenced movements and shaped this nation. It affects every single person every single day. One of the biggest causes of its contemptuousness is perhaps the menace that has become stereotyping. Turn on the T.V. or listen to the radio and watch groups of people continually categorized into images that ruin individuality. Claude Steele is the Chair of the Department of Psychology at Stanford University and has spent 25 years researching and writing about race, race relations and stereotypes.He says that over the years, society – with help from the media – has fallen into this trap, and it is particularly damaging where minorities aren’t prevalent. Senior Ashley Brodie has grown up in Puyallup and said, “There are definitely stereotypes here. We have no culture; we’re so White.” The experts say that when there aren’t many Asians, Latinos, African-Americans or Native Americans in an area, people begin to make generalizations about these groups. “People watch T.V. and they see this image and they think that’s what I am,” Latino student Daniele Garcia said. Steele also says that minorities are not the only ones subject to stereotypes, as Whites, too, can fall prey when they are not the majority. When an individual is faced with a new situation or meets people who aren’t familiar with

“I sit with my Black friends because we all can identify with each other. I think part of the reason there are racial divisions sometimes is because people classify and put you into a group, and so to feel comfortable and have a sense of belonging and acceptance you go hang out with that group.” – Ishae Gainous, junior “We need to understand that in racially mixed settings, racial grouping is a development process in response to an environmental stressor, racism.” – psychologyist Beverly Tatum, Ph.D. them, there are certain assumptions that can be made just because of their race, and this can be very harmful. It’s no secret that many minorities in this country continue to struggle, and part of it might have to do with both the expectations minorities have for themselves and the expectations other people have of them. African-American junior Ed Carter, who grew up in Chicago, agrees with this. “It’s about what you see when you grow up. We never see people going to college, so what makes us think we can go?” Carter said. His powerful statement reflects a fact that is eerily true: There are more African-American males in jail today than in college. “In the hood it’s just a cycle,” Carter said. “My older brother went to high school and dropped out. Now he’s in and out of jail.” Carter says that he moved here to get away from that – he didn’t want to be part of the cycle. Another African-American junior, Lloyd Jackson, has had a similar experience, moving to this community from a rough neighborhood. Like Carter, he, too, sees the benefits of living in a White community. “People that live here – Whites in the suburbs – aren’t striving to get money because they already have it, so their goal is to get good grades and go to Harvard,” Jackson said. “We just want to get by. “The goal is to maintain and possibly do better than your parents.”

According to Steele, it is all too apparent that often times the low expectations sometimes associated with minorities also are true amongst minorities themselves. “Why should you aspire to be something when you never see people like you doing it and no one else believes you can?” Carter said. Said Jackson: “That doesn’t mean we won’t try; you feel good when you don’t do what they expect.” Garcia brought up another interesting point. “People would be surprised to learn that I want to be a lawyer, even those from my own race,” Garcia said. Administrative Intern Condee Holbrook said teachers play a big role, whether they mean to or not. “We’ve been so inundated by images from the media and other factors; teachers don’t always look at students of color and see a future doctor or lawyer and this can result in lower expectations,” Holbrook said. Holbrook knows these lower expectations are not necessarily intentional, but it’s important to recognize that research shows teachers play a huge role in determining a student’s level of success, particularly minorities. Steele also points out that even stereotypes and expectations that aren’t negative can still be harmful. Jonathan An, a senior who is Asian, is all too familiar with this point. Asked if he was bothered by the fact that

there is an expectation that all Asians are smart, An said, “Of course it bothers me, specifically the expectations on exams. People say I will do this and that, and when I don’t I feel like I’ve done something wrong, something out of the ordinary. “The problem is that it doesn’t stop – the same expectation repeats itself.” Based on these assumptions, imagine how frustrating it must be to be an Asian who struggles with school. “It’s almost embarrassing if you’re not a perfect student,” said Faustine Im, who is Asian. Scholars say the best way to get rid of stereotypes and certain expectations is to move beyond what is seen or read and personalize it. Look beyond what might be recognized as a truth and make personal connections with people of other races. Stacey Marshall is a student at Spelman College who has an understanding for the sensitivity of these issues. “I believe that before we can achieve balance we must recognize imbalance,” she said. Perhaps even more compelling than these racial issues are the individuals, the faces at the core. The tan, orange, black, red, curly, straight, freckled, big nosed, small eyed, swirl of humanity that represent and emit all that race is and all that can be overcome. After all, as the saying goes, the only thing that should be separated by color is laundry.

REFLECTING RACE 2/2/2005 8:44:25 PM

85%

AMMA BOFA

REPORTER

WHAT ER STUDENTS SAY ABOUT RACE

of respondents did not think racism was a problem at ER

IDENTITY: BEYOND THE MIRROR

Stereotypes threaten individuality and result in lower expectations BY

ANNA BOFA

REPORTER

77% of African-Americans surveyed at ER have felt “racially discriminated against”

62% of surveyed students said they have witnessed “racially discriminatory actions”

4.7% of respondents said interracial dating wasn’t acceptable under any circumstances

14,15.indd 2-3

REFLECTING RACE 2/2/2005 8:44:25 PM

Accepted?

When it comes to relationships, the sensitive issue of race gets even more complicated. Students speak out on what it means to date interracially at ER BY

ELAINE RAYMOND

REPORTER

16, 13.indd 2-3

Racism: Still an issue at ER? BY

JESSICA RITCHIE

REPORTER

PSD endeavors to combat racism BY

JAMES STANFORD AND DREW SCOTT

EDIRORIAL BOARD AND REPORTER

2/2/2005 8:45:45 PM

Evolution of a ‘Dream’ BY

KAITLYN GOLDEN

REPORTER

With the fifth annual Martin Luther King Jr. Tribute assembly and Black History month just around the corner, the ‘Dream’ is becoming a reality at Emerald Ridge

12,17.indd 2-3

VIEWS FROM BOTH SIDES

CONTRASTING EXPERIENCES FROM CONTRASTING RACES

2/2/2005 8:43:23 PM

GRANT WOODRUFF

REPORTER

KATINA MATHIESON

PHOTO EDITOR

Affirmative Action

Practices and policies ensure that minorities get a fair shot at state university admissions and PSD hiring

“Our strategy is to add minority applicants to the hiring pool by advertising … where minorities are likely to notice.” – Bill Welk, PSD executive director of human resources

In reaction to offensive language, political correctness seeks to put an end to verbal abuse and harassment

Caucasian Asian Hispanic African-American Pacific Islander Latino Greek Native American White Black Other

Sticks and Stones

18,11.indd 2-3

2/2/2005 8:47:34 PM

FEATURE

JagWire

Boys basketball comes up short

Student juggles schools BY

BRITTANY GENTILE

REPORTER

SPORTS

CARISSA CARTER

EDITORIAL BOARD

Senior Gerry Pickens shoots but is blocked by senior Brandon Gibson, who led Rogers to a 65-54 victory.

Sophomore Emily Potter sits on the stairs by a Digital Imaging room. The class is one of two she takes.

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2/2/2005 8:42:06 PM

20 SPORTS

JagWire

FEATURE

Girls hoops stand fourth in SPSL BY

NICK KAJCA

REPORTER

Senior Ciera Gero goes for the easy layup.

It’s been a busy year for American Studies teacher Cory Evans. He spent a month in Italy over the summer with his long-time girlfriend, Terra Moulton, whom he got engaged to during winter break.

No longer on the market Newly engaged American Studies teacher Cory Evans brings passion and excitement to the classroom

McCutcheon’s Studio Fine Photography

KRISTIN WELLENTIN

REPORTER

120 West Main Ave. Puyallup, Washington 98371 253-845-2101 Located next to the Liberty Theatre

20,09.indd 2-3

Photo by Katina Mathieson

Just ask Laura!

“

I REALLY LIKE THE PHILOSOPHY OF THE SCHOOL. IT IS VERY OPEN AND ENCOURAGES STUDENTS.

”

— Cory Evans, American Studies teacher

2/2/2005 8:49:12 PM

08 FEATURE

JagWire

Senior diver Justin Mertlich has his eyes on a state championship in his third trip to the state swim and dive meet

BY NICK KAJCA REPORTER

KAITLYN GOLDEN

REPORTER

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Justin Mertlich wants to attend Brigham Young University.

Unity keeps gymnastics focused on improvement

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SPORTS

2/2/2005 8:39:36 PM

SPORTS

JagWire

Wrestling finishes undefeated

ASL Club hopes to teach members about the traditions of the deaf community by interacting with them while having a good time and learning the language

JENNIFER WHITHAM

REPORTER

MARLEAH FEIST

REPORTER

Sophomore Aaron Brown (right) beats senior Ram Thomas Haulman by major decision, helping the Jags beat Rogers for the first time, 37-27.

Juniors Jessica Crockett (forefront) and Kristin Dexter cheer on fellow ASL Club members while they play a round of the game “Bell Dash.”

“

“ASL Club is all about having fun and getting involved as much as you can,” she said.

ASL CLUB IS ALL ABOUT HAVING FUN AND GETTING INVOLVED AS MUCH AS YOU CAN

Photo by Lissy Bryan

22,07.indd 2-3

Photo by Mikel Armstrong

Club promotes acceptance

The team beats all odds by winning the SPSL South league title without one of its captains for two matches BY

FEATURE

Junior Kristin Dexter celebrates a win.

”

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2/2/2005 8:50:01 PM

OP/ED

JagWire

SPORTS

World awareness growing S

What has been your favorite part of high school basketball? How close our team is this year.

What are your plans for next year?

Editorials are composed by, and are the opinion of, the JagWire editorial board.

Going to Central Washington and studying dentistry. I might play basketball.

06,23.indd 2-3

Honesty, because you have to be able to trust your teammates on the court.

What has been the biggest obstacle you’ve faced? On top of the injuries, just life off the court.

Stats as of 1/31

Which professional athlete do you admire? Magic Johnson is great, just because of all the stuff he does in the community.

What has motivated you in competions? Playing hard to make up for my time injured.

What were your personal goals coming into the season? Leading the team to a winning season and improving the younger players.

Photos by Carissa Carter

Dear Editor:

What are qualities you admire in a teammate?

Points per game: 11.9 Rebounds per game: 3.67 Field goal pct. : 61.4% Free throw: 75.5%

2/2/2005 8:35:09 PM

A&E

JagWire

OP/ED

Standing above all the rest Racism: Not just hate crimes ‘In Good Company’ is a king above peasants as far as films go this spring movie season BY

MATT CLICK

REPORTER

Ignorance only perpetuates problems in America

‘Elektra’ compares to ancient torture methods Jennifer Garner once again grabs a couple of knives and becomes a superhero in her new film, the indirect sequel to ‘Daredevil’ BY

MATT CLICK

REPORTER

24,05.indd 2-3

CSPA, JEA, NSPA, SPJ, WJEA, WSJA

Not even shots of Jennifer Garner’s stomach can atone for this film’s sins against humanity.

THE FINE PRINT

Emerald Ridge High School 12405 184th St. E. South Hill, WA 98374 | 253-435-6300

Photo courtesy of 20th Century Fox

REVIEW

2/2/2005 8:51:21 PM

NEWS

JagWire

A&E

Schedule not being changed yet There will be no changes to the school schedule for second semester, despite recent rumors.

– KASSIE GREEN

Car stolen from student parking lot

Dumbfounded by ‘Fools’

Tuxedo Specials

Recent production of Neil Simon’s ‘Fools’ leaves audience a little confused, but still laughing

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“

WITH MY EXPECTATIONS SET HIGH, I WAS NOT DISAPPOINTED WITH THE ACTING, PLOT, AND CHARACTERS.

”

2/2/2005 8:34:12 PM

A&E

JagWire

Like ‘Ma’ used to make Garza strikes gold It’s been there for years, but many South Hill natives have never eaten at Ma’s Place. Find out what you’ve been missing BY

LAUREN OBREGON

REPORTER

Are you a...

poet? artist? writer? photographer?

Submit pieces to room E-157 to have your art featured in Ascent, the ERHS Literary Magazine WE NEED SUBMISSIONS!

26,03.indd 2-3

The book ‘Pillars of Gold and Silver’ tells us the story of a young girl who overcomes great change BY

LAUREN OBREGON

REPORTER

Start a bachelor’s degree ... or career today

“I love Pierce. The teachers are good at what they do, and Pierce offers cool classes.” - Sally Linn

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NEWS

World Week to rock ERHS A break from the ordinary schedule is on the way as advisories prepare for a week of hard work and fun

“

IT PUSHES YOU TO AN ALMOST UNCOMFORTABLE EDGE. IT WILL PUSH EVERYONE TO WORK TOGETHER.

”

ER gives its change to help aid Asian tsunami victims In light of the recent tragic events devastating southeast Asia, Emerald Ridge students, staff give their resources BY

JESSICA RITCHIE

REPORTER

2/2/2005 8:52:04 PM

16 Interracial Dating JagWire looks at the components and pressures of dating interracially.

Race

Katie – Gwen has come a long way since the start of No Doubt, and not necessarily in the right direction. She was way cooler as a disheveled ska chick. Shame on you Gwen.

Nicole – I like the sound of this music. It is something I would listen to if I was depressed or in a bad mood. His voice is kind of creepy sounding, though.

Lauren – Um, she is imaginative, and I guess she must be doing something good to have lasted so long. Her single is pretty catchy.

Columnists from different racial backgrounds give their perspectives on racial identity.

22| Wrestling undefeated in SPSL

Team beats Rogers for first time behind wrestlers such as Aaron Brown to capture the program’s first SPSL South dual meet title.

The Greater Wrong of the Right

Katie Mathieson

The Coats

The Collection

Tyler – I’m still waiting for the music to start. I thought that this starving puppy could use some food (don’t you love unclear analogies?). This is pretty much auditory vomit. Bad Puppy!

Gwen Stefani Love, Angel, Music, Baby

Nicole Santos

Nicole – I think that Gwen should stay with No Doubt, because even though they weren’t a great band, they were OK. She just needs to never be heard again.

Lauren – Yes! One of the best bands ever! I love the lyrics, his voice, everything! Oh, and it helps that Valo is gorgeous!

09|s American Studies teacher Cory Evans, now Evans engaged, has worked making at Emerald Ridge since its second year and his own is dedicated to ER’s history philosophy.

Skinny Puppy

Tyler Quinn

when

S ee

t h a p pen

ble. dta

unDoff

2.04.05

w ha

Coming soon: JagWire online at www.getjagwired.com

INSIDE

Four People. Fou r CD

me to the ro o c un ey

School drama production 25 | “Fools” keeps audiences “Fools” rolling with endless humor and good laughs its acting despite way into hard-to-hear lines good reviews throughout.

HIM

Lauren Obregon

02, 27.indd 2-3

Razorblade Romance

2/2/2005 8:29:19 PM

THE BEATTAEB EHT GIvINg yOu The LOW dOWN ON The SOuTh SOuNd dNuOS hTuOS ehT NO NWOd WOL ehT uOy gNIvIG

SeasonallanosaeS Lunar New Year 2005 Union St. Great Hall Feb. 12 12-6 p.m. Free Close up in Black: African-American Film Posters Wash. State History Museum Through April 4 $5-$7

MoviesseivoM

ConcertsstrecnoC

Boogeyman Rated: PG-13 Starring: Barry Watson, Lucy Lawless

Interpol Paramount Feb. 11 $20

The Wedding Date Rated: PG-13 Starring: Debra Messing, Dermot Mulroney

Ashlee Simpson Paramount Feb. 24 $37 O.A.R. Moore Theatre March 3 $25

Super Sharks Point Defiance Zoo Feb. 20 $4-$7.75

Matchbook Romance El Corazon (Formerly Graceland) Feb. 10 $13

TheatreertaehT Singinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; in the Rain 5th Avenue Theatre Feb. 12 - March 5 $16-$58 Meshuggah Nuns Tacoma Musical Playhouse Feb. 25 - March 20 $14-$21

SportsstropS

The Complete Works of William Shakespeare Abridged Seattle Public Theater Feb. 3 - 27 $12-$20

UW Husky Mens Basketball Bank of America Arena vs. UCLA Feb. 5 $10-$23

Seattle Sonics KeyArena $10-$149

Flogging Molly El Corazon (Formerly Graceland) Feb. 11-12 $20-$22 Vendetta Red Hells Kitchen Feb. 19 $8 Hot Hot Heat Neumos Feb. 21 $13

EMERALD RIDGE HIGH SCHOOL

12405 184TH ST E SOUTH HILL, WA 98374

VOLUME FIVE ISSUE FOUR FEBRUARY 2005

28, 01.indd 2-3

2/2/2005 8:52:53 PM