JagWire | Volume 10 | Issue 1 | Oct. 2009

EMERALD RIDGE HIGH SCHOOL.12405 184TH ST E SOUTH HILL, WA 98374 volumeTEN.issueONE.october2009

inside

october 2009

10

10 >> Who’s in Control

11 >>

Control

Effects on the mind

How control in relationships affects teens and how new factors of control are occuring in out generation

17 “Wild Thing”

Swim

Over populated classes, busses and teenage Job market. How to cope with the overflow.

6 Crowded News>>06

Where the Wild Things Are in theaters today is a movie spin off from a famous childrens story

Op/Ed>>08

Sports>>14

14

Features>>16

A new coach reforms the Jagwire team into a wiinnning team with 7 wins and only 1 loss

A&E>>17

jagwire Referendum 71 debated NEWS

The extension of equal rights to domestic partners has proven to be a controversial subject in Washington

BY ALLIE RICKARD

REPORTER

This November voters decide between denying or providing domestic couples with the rights that are granted to married couples. Earlier this year, the Washington state legislature approved Senate Bill 5688 that extended all rights, responsibilities,

“I am opposed to Referendum 71; I believe that this would act as a gateway to homosexual marriage and I don’t think that is a step we need to take in Washington.”

Chris Wassman, senior

and obligations to domestic partnerships. Domestic partners are defined as both heterosexual couples in which one spouse is at least 62 years of age or same-sex couples that share a domestic life, but are not married or have a civil union. Rights that were passed in Senate Bill 5688, but are currently in limbo due to the vote on Referendum 71, include: hospital visitation, death benefits, pension benefits, victims’ rights, and adoption rights, among others. Referendum 71 is bringing this issue to the voters this November.

Debate has raged over this issue ever since the original bill was signed by Governor Christine Gregoire this past May. Those opposed to equal rights for domestic partners led the effort to put the referendum on the ballot and challenge the legislature’s and Governor Gregoire’s actions.

Protect Marriage Washington is aiming to reject Referendum 71; a rejection would nullify the law passed by the legislature effectively denying equal rights to domestic partners. Washington Families Standing Together to Approve 71 is on the other side of the debate and is aiming for an approval vote that would uphold the law passed earlier this year.

Despite the fact that domestic partnerships are not only same-sex relationships, the overwhelming focus of debate has centered around same-sex partners.

And those citizens, members of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and

questioning community are the only United States citizens to not have equal rights, contradictory to what the Constitution dictates.

Same-sex marriage, while not covered in Referendum 71, has been a major point of contention.

“If approved, the measure would not change the statute defining marriage under Washington law. A domestic partnership would not be within the definition of marriage, which would continue to be limited to one man and one woman,” Washington Voters’ Pamphlet stated.

Though Senate Bill 5688, via Referendum 71, would give equal rights to all relationships and citizens of Washington without changing marriage laws, many other states have taken different approaches to try to reach the same goal of equal rights for all. Massachusetts, Connecticut, Iowa, and Vermont already have passed laws that grant same-sex marriage and New Hampshire will have a law legalizing gay marriage effective January 1, 2010.

Maine’s citizens will be voting on legalizing same-sex marriage this November. California has previously legalized gay marriage, but with the passage of Proposition 8, the public nullified that law. New Jersey has granted civil unions to homosexual

All families should be treated fairly and equally under the law. Committed couples who want to take care of each other should have the protections they need to keep their families safe. They should be allowed to visit each other in the hospital, take family medical leave, have insurance or receive inheritance. Children should be protected when a parent dies. This law does not affect schools or change the definition of marriage in any way.

"Domestic couples should have some rights, but it is not equal to marriage so I believe that they are not entitled to the same rights as married couples."

Brian Valley, junior "By the Bible standards, it should not be marriage, however I am a strong believer in gay rights in all other respects."

Christina Tuschhoff, junior

Photos by Allie Rickard

"This is definitely a step forward on the road to equality, but we're not there yet and we can't stop yet. And for the opposition of Referendum 71, it's a church created paranoia that shouldn't have anything to do with the policies our government creates."

Dan Knierim, senior

A p p r o v e Campaign

Statutory benefits are not rights. Those who choose to engage in homosexual relationships already enjoy the exact same constitutional rights and protections all Americans have. Washington has decided to recognize and promote marriage between one man and one woman above other types of relationships. SB 5688 would make our state's Defense of Marriage Act meaningless. It's that simple. Reject SB 5688 to preserve marriage!

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R e j e c t Campaign

couples. Washington, DC, New York, and California currently recognize gay marriages performed in other states, to varying degrees, but same-sex marriage is not yet legal in those areas.

As of October 5, 2009, there are 6085 registered domestic partners in Washington, as recorded by Washington’s office of the Secretary of State. Therefore, 12,170 people in committed relationships are waiting for November 3rd, when they may or may not be granted equal rights by the voters of Washington state.

"I think gay relationships should be entitled to just as many rights as married couples and it would be retarded if they did not have those rights."

Maddie Pack, senior "It doesn't hurt anyone and Christian people should not care, what are we going to do to them?"

Sarah Carrier, senior

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jagwire Cost concerns with sports NEWS

New fee and ASB funding are changed for athletics.

BY QUINN SANDERSON

REPORTER

This school year brought changes in sport’s transportation and fees. Although a mandate issued by the Central District office is resolving issues within transportation, the new user fee issued to Emerald Ridge athletes is here to stay.

"Nothing has changed," Emerald Ridge Athletic Director Dell Dittus said. "We have suggested that out of district travel has been eliminated to save money in ASB." Although this seems like a reasonable request, this appears to be limiting some of our school's sport's teams.

"This doesn't give [our teams] full opportunity to go to invitationals," Cross Country Coach Gary Osborne said.

An invitation to go and compete in a tournament or contest is a honor, however without a bus to transport the team, there is no competing.

"The district used to give us a 60% reimbursement on travel," Dittus said. "But now our ASB pays for 100%."

Our school's ASB covers the cost for athletics and also dances, clubs, and other student activities. So if ASB has to pay 100% on travel, that means less money to use for other activities.

Now that the new mandate, or rule, is released all of this trouble has begun to dissolve.

"For the moment, buses are being provided for transportation to and from practice sessions at all off-campus venues (golf, soccer, swim, water polo) for those athletes choosing to utilize them," Dittus said.

Vince Tarsi, head football coach, is one of the many coaches that

are using this free transportation for the season.

"For varsity games, in the past [players] needed to drive themselves to Sparks, but now there are buses both ways," Tarsi said.

These bus rides will continue to help out our Jaguar athletes for the time being.

"This may in fact change depending upon how many student athletes do in fact take advantage of this service," said Dittus.

Along with transportation, the user fee is another big change.

"The only thing that has changed this year is the emphasis on the $60 [user] fee," said Dittus.

Travel fee is a familiar term for the athletes of our school that helped cover the cost of buses to and from sporting events. Nonetheless, the travel fee is no more, and the new user fee has taken its place. This user fee is an adjustment that affects all Jag athletes and is required to be paid in order

to join a team.

This new addition to the usual sport payments is used to help pay for "athletic awards, officials, and contests."

"I believe there has been misleading information on the fee... and some [athletes] can't turn out because of the expensive fee and this creates an impact on sports in general," Osborne said.

Although Osborne believes this user fee has a negative impact on the sport's program, there were some positive input about this also.

"We are very lucky in this district that our [user fee] is cheap," Tarsi said. "I'm shocked at how much other districts pay to play."

Although there are varying opinions on this fee, it is still a required cost to play an Emerald Ridge sport. Transportaion is changing for the better, and hopefully will continue to stay this way.

community, their schools, and their families are more likely to stay in school and succeed in life."

CIS (Communities in Schools is responsible for running programs for youth such as, SMART Readers (Students and Mentors All Reading Together), formerly known as Hosts, along with Wednesday after school programs, and the student led March Gladness program.

Annually, CIS spends 100,000125,000 dollars on programming.

In the summer and fall of 2008, CISP saw a drop in the fundraising numbers. During the same time the US stock market and housing market began to drop. Businesses and Foundations who help fund CIS also saw a reduce in profits.

"In some ways, we are like the canary in a coal mine… when things get tight, charities are often the first to take the hit," Lofits said.

Along with the economic down slide, CIS fundraising revenue and grant money has been down. The CISP Board of Directors has made the decision to put the money they have strictly to pro-

gramming, while concentrating on fund raising in hopes of bringing essential leadership back.

"The reality is that we were faced with the choice - do we pay for administration or do we serve kids," Loftis said. "The answer was pretty obvious."

Though the CIS board is currently working without an executive director, they have had a strong volunteer staff pulling their own weight and trying the best they can.

"Running an organization without a leader is incredibly difficult," Deputy Superintendent Debrah Aungst said. "The executive director is in the 'development business'. Organizations without leadership are at high risk of losing momentum. This is why the CIS board is working so diligently to get financial resources to put a captain at the helm again as soon as possible."

With the departure of Loftis, CIS is still able to keep this year's programs open.

"Next year the CIS leadership

and the community at large are going to have to make some big decisions about support levels and program profile," said Loftis.

In order to get back up on their feet, Communities in Schools of Puyallup, has been working with other CIS affiliates across the state to fundraise on a larger scale. CISP also, has hired an Americorp volunteer to work on grants.

"Should the Board be faced with shutting down programs and services, then the result is clear... no after school programs on Wednesdays, no reading programs at Karshner or Stewart, no more resource sharing, no leadership or financial support for March Gladness.," Aungst said.

"The world will be better place if we decide it will be a better place," Loftis said. "But with that decision, there must also be commitment and action. So wake up each morning and make that decision. Get involved and do something. That’s the only hope, not just for CIS but for the community of humanity as a whole."

Program in peril due to losses Communities in Schools suffers low funds and leaving Executive Director.

BY BILLIEMARIE KLEIN

REPORTER

Communities in Schools of Puyallup is currently tied down financially and without an Executive Director. Due to the lack of sufficient program funding, Chris Loftis cut his own position as Executive Director. Loftis made the announcement to the Board of Directors this September.

Serving 10,000 students annually, this non profit organization is devoted to reducing the number of drop outs with preventive programming for elementary students. Washington ranks 37th in the nation for graduation rates with only 70% of students graduating high school.

"The research shows that kids that are reading at grade level by the 4th grade tend to stay in school and do well in school," Loftis said. "Research also shows us that kids that are involved in their

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jagwire Hunting for employment NEWS

More students need jobs, but so do adults, and difficulties abound.

BY MILENA McLAREN

REPORTER

In 2007, the Bureau of Labor Statistics announced 26.8% of 16-24 year olds were employed. With the current economic status, an increasing number of employed workers have been let go from their everyday jobs. What does this mean for high school students? Less work opportunities available for us.

From fast food to retail sales at the local mall, positions that would normally be given to high school students are being given to workers with families in need of providing for. This makes it more difficult for the average high school student to get that after school job, and makes finding a job more competitive amongst students.

“I can’t be hired because I do not

have any experience.”

A commonly heard complaint throughout high school students; having little to no experience is one of the biggest factors that influence employers whether or not to hire. The seemingly obvious problem however is that you will not get hired if you do not have experience, but you can not get experience if you are not hired, an endless circle of disappointing results that has swallowed many high school students.

Is having a job in high school really the best way to go? The more time a student is working gives them less time to complete homework, or missing work for school. When money is involved, this seems to become more important than school work. Richard Rothstein from The Economic Politics Institute reported in 2004 that high school students who worked three or more hours had lower performance levels in school. Lower grades, more frequent absenteeism, drug and alcohol use and easier courses

are also a correlation with students who worked 15 or more hours a week.

Having lower grades in school may be what it takes for students who have after school and part time jobs to gain other attributes that will be beneficial in the future.

Work ethic, responsibility and a greater sense of independence can enhance a student’s ability once they acquire careers after college.

Junior Josh Guerra is currently employed by Little Caesars Pizza after completing an open interview and having past experience working at Subway.

His past experience at working for a fast food company gave him that extra edge over the others who applied during the interview.

“It was pretty easy” Guerra said. “They just called me.”

With so many currently unemployed and so little job openings, many would say Guerra is lucky. Many students have been applying for job after job but still

have had no success. Senior Andrea Henselen has been applying for jobs since May of 2009 and is still unemployed.

“Prices are going up and I have to pay for insurance and gas for my car.” said Henselen.

She is not giving up in her efforts to be hired, however.

“I am going to keep trying the same way I started, and continue checking in on my applications.” said Henselen Even though Guerra and Henselen are in two different situations, they both agreed that it has become much harder for students to get hired because of the people being laid off from their normal jobs out for the same positions they are.

The competition for students applying for jobs has moved from people their own age, with the similar experience and education, to those graduated and more experience. Until the economy turns around, this may be the case for awhile.

Dropping academic standards Will Emerald Ridge students be able to graduate with a D-average in the near future?

BY CHRISTA NOONAN

REPORTER

On October 21st of 2009*, the School Board of Seattle is meeting to make a final decision on the graduation requirements for Seattle. There,

they will decide whether to allow the Seattle Public School students to graduate with a D-average or not.

The current graduation requirement in Seattle is a 2.0 GPA, a C-average.

“I think that yes, there is that portion of students who are just getting by with a ‘D,’ but I also think that a lot of those students would learn how to adapt and just get by with a C-.” On-time Graduation Coordinator Lisa Kusche said.

Currently, students in the Puyallup School District are expected have at least a D-average and 22 or more credits in order to graduate, including a

Culminating project with a total of 20 hours community service.

A Culminating project is also required for Seattle Public school students, however, Seattle puts more emphasis on community involvement, requiring only 20 credits are to graduate, and 60 hours of community service. Seattle requires a written paper in place of Puyallup’s portfolio and oral presentation in order to walk at graduation.

Both school districts call for a post-high school plan. This includes a personal story, and goals for school and after graduation. *Paper printed before meeting date.

Club schedule causes chaos Homework help or club meeting? That is the question.

BY KATE MEYER

REPORTER “Mondays are the set rule for club meetings district wide,” ERHS Principal Brian Lowney said.

At Emerald Ridge there are over 25 clubs for students to become a part of. From Aviation club and Video Game club, to Interact Club and French Club. The problem is, Monday is the only day clubs can meet. Having to choose between receiving assistance from a teacher or attending a meeting makes being involved with a club difficult.

“I usually choose Interact Club above other classes,” senior Cassy Whitmarsh said. “But if I really need to get something done in another class, I’ll ask someone else in the club what is going on.”

For some club attendees that isn’t

Photos by Allie Rickard

the case.

“It doesn’t really affect me. We usually do our homework and listen to the coach at the same time during JAG and after school,” senior Caya Berry said.

There are, however, students who would rather attend club meetings instead of going to one of their classes and working on their assignments.

“I usually go to ASL club more than any of my other classes during JAG time,” junior Aly Scroggins said. “It’s more fun than doing school work during JAG.” Some clubs, if permitted, meet after school. That may range from 10-12 students for Debate Club, to about 20 students for Drug Prevention Club. Meeting and doing activities with the club after school gives students a chance to go do their work and have their fun later.

“When we have other activities to do, we will either meet together after school or on Tuesday,” said Mrs. Tramell, the Drug Prevention advisor.

Teachers like having the club meetings on Monday’s. It gets them done and out of the way for the rest of the week.

“It gives a good percentage of education for the rest of the week, and club advisors prefer to start the week off with their clubs and let the remainder of the week be dedicated to learning,” ERHS Principal Brian Lowney said.

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jagwire

NEWS

r o w d i n g

oncerns C

Too many kids and a lack of funds have added up to confusion, frustration, and anxiety with buses, in classrooms, and at Pierce College.

Better get used to walking Bus route changes have forced students off the bus and onto the street causing worry over kids’ safety

BY KAITLYN SCHLEGEL

REPORTER

For the 2009-2010 school year, the Puyallup School District had to enforce 13.8 million dollars in budget cuts. The district reduced transportation costs by 1.3 million dollars therefore changing bus routes. With more students walking to and from school every day, there are questions as to how the new change of transportation for students in the district is going to work.

"We received state funding to provide transportation, but none for transportation for students who live in the one mile radius," deputy superintendent of the Puyallup School District Debra Aungst said.

The district measures the boundary changes by a method called "as the crow flies," which is a one mile radius measurement of the walking distances.

"The state only funds 'as the crow flies'," Emerald Ridge High School's principal Brian Lowney said. "If we want to save

money, we go by the state."

With about twice as many walkers at Emerald Ridge and Glacier View than previous school years, safety has become an issue. Students are being creative about how they get to school. Some kids walk to the nearest bus stop to ride the bus to school, while others carpool with their friends.

"I really don't mind walking to school," Junior Melissa Reynolds said. "I chose walking over the bus last year.”

These changes raise questions toward the district. People want to know just how long these changes are going to last.

"I don't envision in the next several years that we will be increasing transportation for the district," Aungst said.

Even school officials doubt that by the next school year, everything will be back to normal. These budget cuts were produced because of the recession, so they will last until the recession has calmed down.

"When will the recession be over?" Glacier View Junior High School's principal Mark Vetter asked.

With the economy still in the process of coming back to its original state, the answer to that question is still unknown.

For now, more pedestrians at Emerald Ridge and Glacier View means that safety is a top priority.

C

Super-size my class please Overcrowded classrooms frustrate students and teachers

BY MELISSA YUN

REPORTER

Emerald Ridge is suffering from overcrowded classrooms because Emerald Ridge has approximately 1600 students this year, and also 133 staff members. Many students are upset and angry that their first priority classes are crammed full of students who aren't as passionate for the subject.

"I don't know, it pretty much sucks because there are just too much people," Junior Tyler Savage said, "And if, you know, three people start talking softly, it’s still really loud and hard to focus."

The average class size should be 30 students. But now, there are 39 students in

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some classes.

“When I began teaching it was considered a large class when we had 30 students in a classroom," Principal Brian Lowney said.

"That is the norm these days, with many classes being even larger than that.”

A lot of classes have been cut, which has led to classes being crammed. Art, world language, and Career and Tech Education classes have been affected the most because some students need the credits for graduation and pathway requirements.

While some students have a sincere passion for a subject or class, and there are those who take classes to waste time because they think they are easy A’s. Ceramics and painting classes for example, have 39 students each. “Yeah, it gets pretty full, but it’s (cont. on pg 7)

Photos by Nathan McCurtain

NEWS

jagwire

Running Start trips over crowds Students encounter crowding-caused career causing enrollment to increase at all colleges, especially problems at Pierce College

BY ERIN BECHTOLD

REPORTER

Pierce College is more crowded than ever due to the economic turmoil. Workers are losing their jobs, forcing them to go back to college for career training leaving no room for Running Start students to pick the classes they want or need to take.

Enrollment at Pierce was at its peak during the months of April and July when the economy was at its worst, causing more people to register during the same time Running Start students were starting to register for classes.

The increasing enrollment at Pierce affects the college financially because Pierce can’t afford to support the overflow, preventing Running Start students from getting the classes they want or need to graduate.

“Due to the poor economy, more non-students are registering to retrain in a different

community colleges," Running Start Manager at Pierce College, Valerie Frey, said "Some are up 18%. Yet, because of the poor economy the state has had to cut our budget, making it much more difficult to accommodate the overflow.”

Counselor Brian Maxfield, head of Running Start Program here at Emerald Ridge, expresses that this year has been the most challenging year to get the students into the classes they want.

“A normal year is challenging because we get about seventy to ninety kids that either want to do full time or part time at Pierce from just Emerald Ridge alone but this year has surprisingly been even more of a challenge because of the crowding,” Maxfield said. “I even got a notice from the staff at Pierce saying to be careful of what students you send because the classes are filling up and that there are a bunch of constraints to cut back college access to students.”

Maxfield also reported that because of the space issue at Pierce, other students are resorting to either going to other community colleges in the area or doing college online instead of going to Pierce Community College.

“One student is going to South Puget Sound Community College in Olympia and wants to transfer back to Pierce for the winter quarter,” Maxfield said.

The crowding at Pierce is directly affecting students who are interested in getting involved in taking classes there because it is forcing them into classes that they did not want to take.

"There definitely is a crowd, I went to sign up for my classes but the ones I wanted were full," Senior Katherine Beckstead said.

"I decided to take one class at Pierce even though I didn't really need or want to take it, but free college is free college."

Beckstead isn’t the only student who was shoved into taking another class that was not her first choice due to the crowding.

Senior Jessica Guiley was

a u s e C

o n f u s i o n C

interested in doing Running Start at Pierce as well because all of the physics classes were full here at Emerald Ridge. She decided to take physics at Pierce, but they were full also. Guiley ended up having to take another science class that wasn't her first choice.

“I knew completely I wanted to take Physics, a good strong science for college, but had no room at ER. So I decided to take it as an extra class after school at Pierce,” Guiley said. “I was ready to sign up before the end of last year, but waiting a month or so to get a compass test, passing, and by the time they let me sign up, every single physics was full for this quarter.”

The crowding at Pierce is a huge issue for not only students, but the Pierce staff as well because of financial and academic reasons. Students are stuck with whatever classes they can get into, even if those happen to be the classes they do not want, and the staff is stuck with trying to support the college through this problematic time.

(cont. from pg. 6) something that I have to deal with,” Ceramics teacher Jamie Maylyon said. “And it’s pretty tough because I have to teach different size classes with different subjects.”

Students and teachers are stressing out because the increase in students has also increased the difficulty to both teach and learn. While students complain that they have it worse off than teachers, these dramatic changes have led to an increase in workload for teachers as well.

“I know that my teacher gets frustrated because it gets really loud in such a small room,”

Photos by Nathan McCurtain

junior Jamie Bush said.

Teachers and other staff members are having difficult times with students, mainly with the students’ own education so that they can succeed in their school work.

“It’s unfortunate, but it’s necessary to attempt to balance the numbers,” Aviation and autocad teacher Jeff Coleman said, “But realistically, students are the ones who suffer because they don’t get the individual time and additional instructions.”

The reason for crowded class sizes is due to the fact that Emerald Ridge as a whole is overcrowded. This overcrowding of classes was

also worsened due to the economic downturn and budget cuts that have resulted in teacher layoffs. World language classes in particular are some of the most crowded due to the freshmen students from Glacier View junior high school.

Students want to know when the school system will change in order to help both themselves and teachers. Unfortunately, administration is unsure of when they will be able to aid and overcome the overcrowding here at school.

“This becomes more difficult to do with each passing day,” Principle Lowney said.

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jagwire

OP/ED

STAFF EDITORIAL BOARD ................... Alanna Nugent ....................................................... Chris Schroll .................................................. Amanda Wyma REPORTERS ................................... Zach Albert ...................................................... Erin Bechtold .......................................................... Jason Britt ..................................................... Andrea Cottle ......................................................... Casey Duke ....................................................... Kayla Gower ....................................................... Moe Herbert ........................................................ James Hunt ................................................... Aubrey Kendall ................................................. Billiemarie Klein .......................................................... Sean Klise .............................................. Nathan McCurtain ............................................... Milena McLauren ................................................ Katharine Meyer .................................................. Christa Noonan ............................................................ Ross Reid ....................................................... Allie Rickard ......................................................... Jacob Roos ............................................... Quinn Sanderson ................................................. Kaitlyn Schlegel ......................................................... Kelsey Yost ........................................................ Melissa Yun ADVISOR....................................... Kevin Smyth

minor

ANNOYANCES Are you feeling the parking lot panic? Afraid you will never get home? Well, we know the feeling.

BY BILLIEMARIE KLEIN

REPORTER

2:10: The bell rings. The school day is done, over with, finished. Relief tingles down my spine.

Free at last, free at last, thank god all mighty we are free at last.

2:14: “Beep Beep”, I unlock my mom’s car that I am of course, borrowing. I take seat in my comfy grey seats. This is so much better than the cold plastic I have been sitting on all day.

2:15: After my moment of mediating, I put the key in the ignition, start the engine, look over my shoulder to make sure all is clear and reverse. Thank you Corey from A Driving School for teaching me how to back up, the proper way.

2:16: My tires roll backwards- Civic?! Brake! The civic pulls up to the car behind me. Ok, well there is still a few inches between the two cars... maybe if I will ease out more, they will let me in. Easing, Easing. Nope, fail. The stupid Civic pulled up closer to the car behind me. Now, from the teachings of Corey, I am certain that I have the right of way, but apparently I don’t. The civic needs one of those free books that you

get at the DMV to glance at before the written test, maybe which will help the Honda with rules and regulations.

I’m stuck here. I will never leave. five minutes later 2:21: I am unstuck. Thank you nice Corolla for letting me finally finishs backing out. I wave and flash them a smile (the first smile I have had since I started my car).

3 minutes pass 2:24: As I sit in the never ending line of cars, I push a mix in my CD player. Track 1, Blink 182, Perfect. My steering wheel is now a make shift drum- Travis Barker’s got nothing on me. Track 2, Beyonce, “Na na na, diva is a female version of a hustla, of hustla, of a of a hustla”. I sing along, I’ll be Beyonce one day. “Got money and you know it, take it out of your pocket and show it then throw it”... Uhhh was that track 3...? Maybe, the CD just skipped? Huh, I still hear Beyonce though... I press the button that rolls down my window for lazy me. Is that really coming from the other side

All the little things we hate

of the parking lot? Yes, yes that is. Thank you for interrupting my time with Beyonce. I really appreciate it. I again press the button that will now roll my window up for me, handy.

Two slow minutes pass by 2:26 What just flew by my windshield? The unknown object flies past my windshield a second time. . Humph, but I thought the football team practiced on the field? Maybe they got kicked off the field for being so bad...

4 minutes later: 2:30: Just three more feet until I can finally taste freedom! Two more feet to go, this excitement deserves some Beyonce, one more foot until my I am out.... oh no the buses are coming, please please please let me in car in front of the buses!

2:31: A line of never ending yellow passes and passes and passes and passes right before my eyes. I’m not free at last.

AFFILIATES

JEA, NSPA, SPJ, WJEA, WSJA

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

publication’s tradition of excellence through self-reflection and improvement. As part of the curriculum of the Puyallup School District, we are subject to the scrutiny and evaluation of The administration. JagWire is used as an academic tool to interact with the surrounding community and improve journalism education.

EDITORIAL MISSION As a limited forum, JagWire exercises student expression rights under the jurisdiction of the Puyallup School District.

We pursue an unbiased truth while maintaining the highest journalistic integrity. Out top priority is to raise awareness while covering a wide variety of issues that impact our readership. By exploring different angles to make sure our coverage is fair, balanced and accurate, we seek to continue the

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.

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We will not publish material that may substantially disrupt the school process. Letters tot he editor may be submitted by mailing them to JagWire c/o Emerald Ridge High School, or by e-mailing them to smythkg@puyallup.k12.wa.us.

ADVERTISING MISSION The JagWire publication staff accepts advertisements for most products and services available to the public. However, the staff reserves to 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 that is racist, sexist or illegal for high school students.

Photo by Allie Rickard

CONTROL EVERYONE is connected through relationships: from BOYFRIENDS and girlfriends, co-workers, relatives, best friends, and even enemies.

Power seeps its way into these various relationships in a variety of ways, causing major problems for those under this control.

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WHAT IS CONTROL? Control is excersized by individuals in relationships in a myriad of different forms, the question is, do you know it when it’s happening to you?

BY AMANDA WYMA

EDITORIAL-BOARD When the word control surfaces in conversations today, usually the word power comes to mind as well. Webster’s definition of control is “to exercise authoritative or dominating influence over directly.” Everyone has relationships—from friends and family to boyfriends or girlfriends, interactions are occurring almost constantly in today’s society.

Naturally, control has slipped its way into these relations with each other in many different forms.

Control is rarely a subject that is addressed in the classroom simply because it’s technically a mild form of emotional abuse. However, being under the control of someone else can lead to the same effects that abused individuals deal with, therefore it is a relevant topic of discussion.

Technology and many other factors have led to this steady increase in control within relationships throughout the world. So, how do you know if you’re controlling? How do you know if you’re being controlled? The scary truth is that control has slipped its way into relationships virtually undetected, and gotten to a point where the line is hard to

define between what’s genuinely caring and what’s manipulative and overbearing. Studies conducted by divorceThough the high-school scene usually only contains milder forms of control, there are some cases when it becomes abusive to individuals dealing with a controlling friendship or relationship.

Before the era of home telephones and now mobile-phones, computers and Blackberries, friendships and exclusive relationships were all face-toface. If two people wanted to get together it was based solely upon plans made during the day, and everyone’s daily agenda was much more private.

With such things as the Facebook status and textmessaging, controlling individuals can “keep tabs” on their friends, enabling them to express their opinions about the how, what, and with whom they spend their time with—which can lead to a somewhat controlling relationship.

There is argument as to whether or not the feeling of being controlled is a personal problem, and if it can be fairly deemed abuse. Because submissive individuals naturally conform to please more dominant people, some dominant individuals may be controlling those around them without any awareness that they are doing so. Stanford University’s Sexual Assault & Relationship Abuse Prevention and Support website defines an abusive relationship as “a pattern of abusive and coercive behaviors used to maintain power and control over a former or current intimate partner.” This definition clearly encompasses the current rise in controlling relationships.

Also, people who are generally more submissive, allow comments and opinions to be impressed upon them without any outside force threatening or belittling them into doing so, which is where control becomes hard to define.

E-Home Fellowship’s article on controlling and abusive relationships says that controllers feel threatened by opposing opinions to their own-therefore, maintaining a defensive and manipulative relationship keeps opposers at bay. People engaged in relationships start feeling less inclined to state their opinions because of fear they have of the controlling individual.

Many people try to pawn off the title of the “dominant” or controlling persona on males; however, studies have shown that control is equally prominent in females. Physically, males may seem more forceful simply because of strength, however, females are controlling in other ways. Girls tend to exercise control in more subtle ways—abusing jealousy, being vocal about dislike of certain activities or individuals, and manipulation through others.

Being involved in a controlling relationship can be detrimental—there are long and short term psychological effects from stress and paranoia. In addition to these more serious affects, people who are being manipulated by those around them tend to isolate themselves, which can lead to depression and anxiety as well.

Clearly controlling relationships are becoming more and more prominent amongst teenagers, which is an extremely unhealthy trend to begin.

THE GENDER DEBATE When it comes to gender stereotypes, many accuse the male of being the dominating partner however, studies show this statement isn’t always accurate.

BY CASEY DUKE

REPORTER

What makes a person controlling?

There is a heated argument on this sensitve subject about who is more likely to be in charge, the dominant figure in a relationship. Most women say that it is the males that are going

to take charge in a relationship, but that is not always the case. Tina L. Jones, an expert in relationships, believes that both parties should share power.

“If a relationship is to survive, there must be equal control amongst both partners,” Jones said. “If a woman allows the man to take total control, or vice-versa, the relationship will be at risk, since the one being controlled will resent the one who has the total power.”

The truth is control can start by the most basic of problems in a relationship. Personality is the first problem that may lead to a controlling relationship.

The more likely a person is to get angry, the more likely they are to

take charge, or become enraged with the other. Control also takes place through lies and deception: the more often someone lies, the more trust issues there will be. A lack of trust may cause an unseen fury to bubble to the surface.

That may be common courtesy, but some women expect the door to be opened by their partner. Many women have high expectaitions of men and this is a form of control. They also make men feel insecure when they make them feel like they aren’t good enough for them.

Men obtain power by playing mind games with woman. They fire at their insecurities and make them feel bad so that they will listen to them more. However they can’t just keep

doing that or the woman will get fed up with him. If this continues it has become an abusive relationship.

The man in the relationship may act violent playfully and not realize that he is hurting the woman through this behavior. The struggle for power never ends and whether the man or the woman in the relationship take power, it just makes them want more control.

“Both partners will eventually make some sort of sacrifice in a relationship. However, it is necessary that both partners make a sacrifice and not just one person over and over again,”Jones said.

The question of who is in control doesn’t end. The best relationships are ones where the couple share power.

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CONTROL’S EFFECT ON THE BRAIN Controlling relationships have lasting effects on individuals that experience manipulation.

BY ANDREA COTTLE

REPORTER

Most relationships start out like a fairytale--with virtually no fighting, and carefree fun. However, over time friendships and exclusive relationships can lead to fear, paranoia, and control. Many teens are trapped in the sweet and seemingly comfortable relationship, while unbeknownst to them, they are psychologically affected and controlled perhaps more than in any other way. The controller in the relationship likely unaware that their actions are taken to be controlling. In the beginning of the relationship, when two people still do not completely know one another, it’s easier to be unaffected by the other’s opinions or feelings. However, as the relationship progresses, the more the dominant individual’s opinions and ideas seem to be impressed upon the more submissive.

One of the main signs of extreme control in a relationship is when a person begins to feel isolated from the people to whom they are closest to; their best friends and even their family. This may cause them to constantly be worried about what they are doing

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at any given time because they don’t know what their response will be. This indicates paranoia, which is a diagnosable psychological effect that can lead to more serious psychological problems later in life or in other relationships.

According to Elizabeth Scott, M.S., the body’s response to a stressful situation is for adrenal glands to release epinephrine and cortisol into the blood stream during a fight or flight response.

This causes the body’s rate heart to speed up, shut down the digestive system, sets off the nervous system, and strength will increase.

When the stressful situation has calmed down the body system will return back to its normal state of being.

A controlling relationship can lead to social, emotional, and psychological damage of the individual; whether that be male or female.

Though many people categorize males as the more dominant figure in a relationship, this is proven to be untrue through studies of genetics. On Encyclopedia.com, Donald R. McCreary conducted two studies and found “dominant and submissive acts are perceived to be equally desirable for men and women to perform.

Many times, the controlling individual in a relationship will be unable to see the way they’ve negatively affected their partner because psychological effects

aren’t tangible. Also, because one cannot be controlled without their own consent, it is often debated whether or not psychological damage is a personal problem. This paranoia and fear, though psychological, is emotional abuse.

Paranoia has individuals constantly worried about what their plans are and even who they are around. They will find themselves focusing on what they wear and who they are talking to just so they don’t take a chance of upsetting their partner. Kimberly Read and Marcia Purse on About.com say that the feelings of paranoia are distrust to an extreme. When they are in a relationship they are constantly worrying about what their partner is thinking and who they are with. This is an obsessive pattern that is hard to break.

Low self-esteem, panic, depression, and stress are all caused by controlling relationships. After someone gets out of a controlling relationship it can be hard for them to go back to a functional, and healthy one. Their mind will always be thinking about what it was like when they were in that controlling relationship. It is something that stays with them. Some individuals have to go to counseling to be able to cope with their past abusive relationships. Control is an abusive relationship, even though sometimes it is harder to realize. by controlling relationships.

to eliminate or prevent from flourishing, to excersize restraint, power, or direction over. to hold in check, curb, or regulate.

power.manipulation.command.authority.rule. technology creates avenues to control Increasing technology has made control easier

BY NATHAN MCCURTAIN

REPORTER

Technology has intermingled in every aspect of society. A friend, family member, boyfriend or girlfriend are all just the touch of a button away. With hundreds of different avenues to communicate every minute of everyday, people are under constant pressure as they are inundated with the constant flow of information.

Not only can you talk to individuals via phone or text but you can also see their photos, moods, posts and comments on the many available social websites. Specific sites such as Facebook and Myspace give a user the ability to put their moods and relationship status up for people to see.

While this seems like a good thing for friendships and in particular relationships, but it can also be detrimental if it were misused to control or spread misinformation about your boyfriend or girlfriend.

Relationships which may experiencing turbulant times produce an unhealthy situation on the internet or other technological devices, as disagreements are posted for all to read. Facebook is far more specific with relationship status.

You have the ability to post if you are married, single, its complicated, engaged, in an open relationship, widowed and in a relationship a simple change of status makes it possible to send a dismissive message to a person without ever having to talk to them.

A person can also specify mood, allowing everyone to read exactly what the person is feeling and doing this can be used to manipulate others without direct interaction.

The mood may be expressed honestly but a boyfriend or girlfriend can feel pressured to respond in a certain way, without the benefit

of face to face communication.

A couple may be hanging on to these status updates and a change from “in a relationship” to its “complicated” could worry a person.

The fact that these status updates are visible for everyone to see also can add on stress. People may feel free to become involved from this imposed distance, more than they might if the couple was involved in a private conversation.

Phones have also broken free into a new age of technology and have expanded to incorporate a wide range of options for communicating. Now, a person can call or text anytime and anywhere allowing people to find out instantaneously what others are feeling and doing. People can send text messages such as “How are you?” and “What are you doing?” on a regular basis to one another so as to know what others are doing all the time. The impact of words are not seen on the face or body language of the person you are addressing so it is difficult to judge the motive behind the texts.

Some people could hang on every word of a text or call about what their significant other is doing and then follow up that knowledge with a series of questions to see if they’re telling the truth. This is because the niceties of a personal conversation may be lacking. Short texts back and forth can become a form of interrogation, and they occur at any time of the day or night.

Couples can be in constant contact, keeping tabs on one another in a way which is unprecedented.

Knowing what a person is doing all the time via texting and phone calls is a form of control and can makes personal interaction secondary in relationships.

Ignoring and not responding is also a form of control, and is much easier when your primary form of communication are the computer, phone and text messages.

Media models overbearing behavior Living in a society with such a vast array of media being in our faces, it’s inevitable that our relationships have began to resemble those that we witness on television or on the radio.

BY ALANNA NUGENT

EDITORIAL-BOARD Media plays a huge role in influencing America’s ideals. Whether it be through television shows, news, radio or even magazines, media is all around, and those most susceptible to being influenced are young adults and students. Most of what these teens see or hear through the media correlate with sexual intercourse, personal relationships and the use of drugs and alcohol.

Such TV shows as Gossip Girl, Degrassi; the Next Generation, and The Secret Life of the American Teenager all deal with high school relationships. The image these shows portray are that it is acceptable for a boy or girl to treat their significant other with disrespect, cruelty, or over-barring control. These shows tend to be the ones teenagers look to for influence within their own relationships.

Keeping in constant contact with friends, family, and significant others are a common factor in today’s society, and these television shows exemplify such norms.

When young adults watch these shows, they are allowing themselves to be manipulated into believing that controlling every aspect of their relationships are applicable and normal.

Degrassi, for example, characterizes the role of a boyfriend or girlfriend as one who controls the other. Usually by being immersed within every aspect of their

significant others’ life and authorizing what is allowed within the relationship is how the characters on the show demonstrate their control over their boyfriend or girlfriend.

In the televised program of Gossip Girl, the roles of characters are controlled by the voice of the “Gossip Girl” within the show. This “voice” texts and/or posts on the Internet what is happening within the secret lives of each individual. By doing so, she gives permission for the whole city to know what one person is doing or going through. With that much publicity, one’s life ends up being controlled whether or not they want it to be.

As students observe these displays of innadequate behavior, they start to presume that that is what they should be doing as well.

Music is another ample influential media base, but does not always influence young adults on important issues.

Songs of R&B, Country, Rap, Rock and even some Alternative genres talk about relationships, however not necessarily in the proper manner. Many songs give the impression that yelling, beating or even cheating is acceptable in society, and some students live their lives by some of these songs without knowing or understanding what they mean.

The majority of these influences come from the Rap and R&B genres. With having songs about “taking back control” within the relationship, manipulating their significant other, and many other notable topics, teens may misconstrue the message.

Though media is an excellent source for getting news around the world, it also has simultaneously influenced young adults and students to behave in controlling ways within their personal relationships.

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jagwire C0-Champs State Bound SPORTS

Boys tennis Blows away expectations and claims the title of Co-Champs

BY ZACH ALBERT

REPORTER

The Emerald Ridge Boys Tennis team, with a record of 9-2, are SPSL co-champions with puyallup.

With a victory over Graham-Kapowsin on October 7th, the boys clinched the co-championship along with Puyallup High School. Of their two final matches of the season the one on October 14th against Kentwood was canceled because of rain, and they lost to Todd Beamer on the 16th.

The team has prospered during this season with the

marked improvement in the consistency of the play of many members of the team, such as juniors Josh Guerra, Kyle Pegram, and Tim Kim, along with young talent from Glacier View.

“We have eight returners and most of them hit during the off season,” Guerra said.

With the season coming to a close the team element disappears from play, and sub-districts and districts loom in the distance.

“We’ll send nine people to sub-districts,”coach Theresa Gotter said. “And then you have to qualify for districts.”

It is expected for one or two singles players to participate in districts, and two for doubles. With all the talent on the team, hopes are high for districts.

The girls soccer team sits on cloud nine, ranked second in the state.They remain undefeated at 11-0.

BY CHRIS SCHROLL

EDITORIAL-BOARD The team has played really well this year,” senior captain Kailee Jensen said. “We’ve stayed focused and never backed down from any challenge. With the potential we have, everyone has risen to the occasion.”

After beating former league champions, Todd Beamer, twice this season (3-1, 2-1), the girls are looking toward the prospects of an undefeated season.

“We’re keeping our heads and going out every game knowing that every underdog is dangerous,” senior captain Kayla Stueckle said. “That means even the teams you should beat can give you a run for your money.”

The team increased the

intensity of their training in preparation for the difficult season ahead.

“I believe that our team is practicing harder then we ever have,” Jensen said. “Also, we have run so much that we’re in the best shape we’ve ever been.”

Alongside the strong core of seniors, a group of sophomores has stepped up and contributed to the success of the team. Sophomores Jessica Hicker, Ally Molver, Stephine Riley, Aubrey Rodgers, Tatum Ross, Kimmie Stueckle, and Tessa Winters have all been on the field this season.

“Majorly, the new crop this year is really talented,” senior Sarah Lampert said. “With that and the skills of several seniors, it really makes us a power team.”

Chemistry among the players has contributed to their success on the field.

“The team chemistry is probably the best its ever been,” Jensen said. “We all work extremely well together.”

With two daughters on

the field, Coach Stueckle has motivated the girls to play at the higher level of intensity this season.

“I love my dad,” Kayla Stueckle said. “He knows what we are capable of and pushes us to work for it and earn it.”

The positive attitude towards the Coach Stueckle isn’t only felt among his daughters.

“I have been under some sort of coaching from Mr. Stueckle since ninth grade,” Lampert said. “He really knows the game and always has something to say that will make you a better player.”

The ladies have had three key injuries this season, but are playing through them.

Starting goalie Emily Bond broke her collar bone and ankle earlier in the season and has not been able to play. Junior Jaynee Laky was involved in a car accident and is out for the season. Senior Courtney Craft suffered a hip injury Oct. 15 in a game against rival Puyallup High School and could be out for the remainder of the season.

ER’s Pool Battle

Junior Scott Medlock Serves up crushing blows. Jags oponents are running for cover.

The boys water polo team earned an impressive record of 4-2, and are 4th place in the SPSL South division. .

BY JASON BRITT

REPORTER

The Jag guys fight for The team plays very well together, and they are every yard. The Bethel friends at school and outside of school. Its a very defense brick walls close knit group, and everyone thats a part of the them at the line. team believes they can win every game.

Hope Lives Photo by Nathan McCurtain

“What motivates everyone on the team is to win,” senior captain Ian Clark said. “We play as a team.”

The team is making a habit of winning their matches. There is no shortage of confidence in each player, and no shortage of belief in each

A record of 0-7 may not reflect strength during games,

BY KAYLA GOWER

REPORTER

With the end of the season in sight, the football team is focused onmakes improvements for a positive future.

Even though the Jags sport a record of 0-7 their spirit is still alive in the team.

“I feel honestly we are working well as a team,” senior Malcolm Stout said.

other to succed during the game.

“I’ve scored seven goals and stopped many more,” junior Seth Cleek said. “But every game is a total team effort, The whole team plays aggresively in every games, with sophomore Manny Farinas leading the way.

“I play with a chip on my shoulder,” Farinas said “I know as a underclassmen I have to go out there and work as hard as possible in games and especially in practice” Teammates have noted the intensity and heart from the sophomore, Farinas, “Manny plays hard all the time,” Cleek said.

“We’ve gotten heated during practice a few times, but I respect him for how he has been playing.

Through their skill and ability to play as a team the Jags have earned a playoff birth.

A big accomplishment for the Jags has been their ability to improve.

“I have seen improvements throughout the team which is what we strive for,” senior captain Brian Cook said. “Hopefully the underclassmen can keep making those improvements and have a more successful season next year.”

Sophomore kicker Luke Logan agreed with Brian.

“I’m looking forward to next season,” Logan said.

The Jags will finish off the season with a game against Spanaway Lake and against curtis With hopes for the future, the Jags are determined to improve morale and keep the strong team.

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SPORTS

Cross country wins divison title The boys and girls clinched the SPSL South division title with an undefeated season and hope to qualify for the Westside Classc district meet

BY KAITLYN

REPORTER This year’s cross country team has come out on top with an undeafeated season. The time and dedication the atheltes have put in throughout the season has paid off and earned both the boys and girls team the SPSL South division title.

“It was a wonderful season, the best yet,” junior Ryley Reynolds said. “It was very fun, we all improved this season.”

The cross Country team has also broken school records this season. Both junior Carly Wilczynski and senior Chris Schroll broke the ER course record in the same meet.

“It was really cool to break the course record,” junior Carly Wilczynski said.

The team has practiced every day after school in hopes to reach their peak during postseason.

“We practice fast to get faster,” cross country coach Gary Osborne said.

The team has prepared in every aspect

so they would be able to perform at their best for every meet.

“I jog the course first to see how I’m gonna pass people,” junior Luigi Devereux said.

Many runners listen to music or try to relax before the meet to get their best times. The ways the athletes prepare themselves for the race varies from runner to runner.

“I get psyched up and get ‘in the game’,” senior Jacob Koveleske said.

The next meet for both guys and girls is the SPSL League Championships on Saturday, and if they qualify, they will advance to the District 3 Championship.

At the district meet, runners from both teams will hope to qualify for the state meet in Pasco on Nov. 7. The girls hope to qualify for the state meet as a team, as the boys team did last year.

Although there is a hard stretch of races ahead of them, the teams are both satisfied with their seasons so far.

“Considering they are undefeated, they are doing pretty darn good,” said Osborne. “The team is not trying to psych themselves out of winning the championships, but they feel like they have a good chance of walking, or running, away from the meet advancing towards districts. “

State close

Volleyball earns berth at West Centeral Tournament

BY KELSEY YOST

REPORTER

The volleyball is 4-1 in the league, and are keeping their energy going to win in the West Central District Tournament on Nov. 6 and 7.

The team captains, Ariel Babcock and Messisa Horton work hard to encourage fellow teammates to keep up their game and stay positive, even after a difficult match.

“We gotta keep up the mo’,” Hoyt said.

“We’ve done lots of conditioning, and a lot more team bonding,” Babcock said.

A few girls on varsity are adapting to new positions this year, stepping up and taking on the different roles for the team.

“Two definitely stand out,” Coach Jim Rudy said. “Megan Hoyt, improving as a defensive player, and Taryn Boyington, switching from the left to the right, improving exceptionally.”

The girls are working harder for the toughest part of their upcoming season.

“They still need to work at consistency by keeping up their game spirit at all times.” Rudy said.

Golf hopes for state A successful season puts lady golfers second in the SPSL South and in a good position entering the State Qualifiers tournament. After a struggling season, the boys hope to rebound with good finishes in the State Qualifiers tournament

BY JACOB ROOS

REPORTER

Though young, the girl’s golf team is working hard and reaping the benefits.

The lady Jags finished at 7-3, second in league. They are doing better this year than last.

“We aren’t playing to our full potential, hopefully we can the next few weeks.” coach Jim Meyerhoff said. “We are getting better every week.”

Now that the golf season is coming to a close, the girl’s team is looking forward to state. State qualifiers for both teams are on October 22nd at Gold Mountain.

With key players such as seniors Kim

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Auton, captain, Brooklyn Whitney, and sophomore Tara Knutsen, they are hoping to do well. The team seems to be satisfied with the season so far.

“Only upset of the year was Roger’s,” said Auton, “we have a really young team” For the Boy’s golf team the season has been a struggle with a record of 4-6 and close matches against Puyallup High School at High Cedars Golf Course where they only lost by four points.

“Our team could be better,” senior captain Clark said, “but we are hanging in there going day by day, no one can be perfect,” As a team they were hoping to take second in state, but they didn’t manage to do that. As of now, they are fourth in the state and hoping to make an impact at state.

“We could do a lot better,” said Michael Mille, “we are struggling,” Despite the struggle the boys are looking forward to state and planning on doing their best.

“Hopefully some of us make it to state and hopefully win our first state championship for golf,” Clark said

Grand finish Swim team finishes season second place in SPSL South

BY NATHAN McCURTIAN

REPORTER

The girls swim team has had an impressive record of 7-1 in the 2009 season.

Coach Diana Ekstrom trained the girls to victory against almost every oponent.

Led by senior captains Emily Rice, Madison Swanson and Jenae Wilczynski, the swim team has left an impressive trail of victories.

The girls finished second in the SPSL, finishing behind the Puyallup Vikings.

This is a large improvement over last year when they won only half their meets.

In her first year, Coach Ekstrom brought new leadership to the girls that brought about a winning season and brought the girls together in a more team-like environment.

“It’s amazing, the growth is amazing,

they’re cheering for each other. assistant coach Stefain Fersh said, they’re a team; they believe in each other they’re not competing against each other.”

The Jags were victorious against the cross-town rival Rogers Rams beating them by a score of 95 to 75. The girls only loss was against the Puyallup Vikings losing by one point scoring 93 to 92.

The swimmers have greatly improved their times from the beginning of the season till now. “We’ve got girls that have already made district times,” Ekstrom said. “I dont know if were ready for state yet but id like to stay optimistic.”

The team is optimistic about their new coaches who have helped them improve as swimmers and as teammates by bringing their years of experience to the team.

“The coaches have helped us a lot because they actually know what there doing,” Davis said. “They said that all together they have about 40 years of experience of coaching put together of coaching and they know how to encourage us and help us improve.”

Senior Marissa Davis in a meet at Pacific Luthern University

FEATURE

jagwire

Audrey Sullivan Q: How long have you been playing soccer?

A: Since I was about four, so probably 14 years.

Q: Do you have any plans with soccer when you stop playing?

A: I would like to coach someday.

Q: How long have you been on varsity for ERHS? A: All three years.

Q: If you could play for any team, which team would it be?

A: Texas A&M.

Q: What has been your most memorable moment as an ERHS soccer player?

A: Our first Beamer game this year when I’d had a real bad week and we all came out and beat them as the underdogs.

Q: What are your personal goals for this season?

A: Always have a positive attitude.

Q: What is your favorite team and who is your favorite player?

A: I don’t know what team,but Cristiano Ronaldo.

Q: What do you love most about soccer?

A: Being able to just kind of hit people and the team atmosphere.

Q: Do you plan on playing soccer in the future?

A: Yes, I’m playing in college.

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Q: If you could tell a young and new soccer player one thing, what would it be?

Q: What teams have you played for so far? A: It’s a team sport.

A: Mostly just the Maple Valley Marauders I guess.

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FEATURE

Lit will never be the same Students mainly know Mrs. Susee the AP Literature teacher or Mr. Susse’s wife. I sat down to with her to get the real scoop on Mr. Susee, her teen years, and death.

BY AUBREY KENDALL REPORTER Aubrey Kendall: Are you anticipating dying?

Mrs. Susee: I think its foolish if you don’t anticipate death. Everybody is going to die. It sounds cliche but, live each day to the fullest. Appreciate what you have. Sometimes I don’t do enough of that becasue I get hung up grading papers and school work.

AK: Can you tell me about a time you felt extremely unsafe?

S: Does this interview count?

AK: How did you meet your husband?

S: In eleventh grade US history class and PHS. We sat near eachother. I can’t imagine not knowimg him. We didn’t date until college.

AK: What was your first date with him like?

S: It wasn’t a big build up since we’d know each other so long. I don’t really remember, How bad is that?

AK: If you had to give up all of your personal possesions except one, what would you keep?

S: A copy of Shakespeares works from 1835.

I could always buy new clothes. I tend to be more sentimental about some things. Or I’d keep photos of my five year old son.

AK: How do you feel about books being made into movies?

S: Ugh! I hate it when Holleywood changes literature. When we were reading Homer’s Iliad, we watched Troy. I wanted to go up and turn off the screen and explain why things were wrong.

AK: How is it different teaching your son as compared to teaching your students?

S: On some level its the same basic information. Be nice to eachother. Don’t hit eachother. I think being a parent makes me more realistic of what you can expect from kids.

AK: What were you like in High school?

S: I tend to be shy when I’m being myself. I usually sat in the back of the room, not in a creepy way. I always did my homework. I guess you could say I was a wallflower.

AK: What was your family like growing up?

S: I had two younger brothers, three and seven years younger. My parents divorced when I was a senior.

AK: Do you feel that your parents divorce makes you more able to sympathise with students in similar situations?

S: I guess so. I hope i show my students i have a heart no matter what their social or family situation is. They’re people too.

SUb-Standard Whether you love them or hate them, you’ve had one before. Substitute teachers are as common and ordinary as a pencil. The stories about what happen under their supervision are quite the opposite; strange outfits, odd requests and even flying hotdogs. Stories of outrageous behavior of both student and substitute teacher usually seem exaggerated. Judge for yourself; are the following situations fantasies or fact? ”In sixth grade, me and my friend were having lunch and she had a hot dog. She tried to throw it at a boy she liked but it hit the sub in the head.”

At my old school all the students in my class passed around notes that said things like ‘clap at 11:15’ and then we’d all clap and the sub would freak out. When she left we’d erase the board and write things from other classes instead.

- Chelsea Atwood (Sophomore)

”I had a sub that told us all to call him Your Majesty.”

-Anthony Mihalko (Junior)

”I had a really gullible substitute come into class wearing a skin-tight black leather suit with cowboy fringe off the arms and legs. Some of the students kept turning the T.V. on and off with the remote. They told her it was possessed and she believed them.” -Joseph Magin

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(Junior)

-Erica Evans (Junior)

“When a substitute returned from Europe after experiencing a margarita in a goblet sized glass with a seventeen inch diameter, she had a few words of advise for her students. “if you go to Europe, you’ve got to try it!”

-Christina McKee (Senior)

Photos by Aubrey Kendall

jagwire “Wild Things” impresses FEATURE

The once a classic childrens story, is now an inticing movie for all ages to enjoy.

With a cast that captures the heartfelt essance of the original story, ‘Where the Wild Things Are’ is a wild winner

BY MOE HERBERT

REPORTER

In 1963, Maurice Sendak wrote, Where the Wild things Are, and on October 16th 2009, Spike Jonze directed and released this cinematic rendition that I believe is the year’s best movie. I started off by plopping myself deep into those movie chairs you can never get comfy in, with a bowl of popcorn, candy, and soda that I paid all too much for. I sat there eagerly with high expectations for this film, and it triumphed every hope I had for it.

I spent the hour and thirty minutes following along with Max Records as he journeyed through the imagination of his inner-child. Its started off with a normal day which was soon filled with sympathetic sadness.

No father, disloyal siblings, and a neglecting mother (the typical Hollywood movie in most settings). Then he leads you to his dream land of happiness after fighting with his mother. Right along side him when he reached his subconscious oasis was his furry monster friends Douglas, Ira, Carol, KW, Judith, and Alexander. These wretched beasts are the nicest king-killer creatures that you will ever encounter.

This mystical island is last known existense of all types of seasons, habitats, and environments in which the wild can run free and be free. Everything from deserts to deep foggy forests to sunny beaches. It has everyone star-poor two stars-average three stars-good four stars-great

thing you could desire in that sort of lucid state.

This movie was fantastic, to say the least. There were a few times that the animation was a little too over the top for me but still was an excellent and well-crafted film. You could feel your visual scenes being pumped with state-of-the-art amination.

Throughout this movie I found myself feeling many notable symptoms of nostalgia and joyfulness. I felt little again, for the first time in a long time, and that is some thing I was actually surprised to see in a Warner Bros film. I also felt a lot of self realization. The true human condition and the never-ending expansion of the child psyche and imagination that is the by-product of that.

Max Records (Max), James Gandolfini (Carol), and Catheine O’Hara (Judith) did a terrific job on the portrayal of their characters and setting the mood for the rest of the movie. They out-shined the other actors and their characters with the dynamic perfromaces, but I believe that was purely based off of dialogue and the directers attempt to connect you more to these characters then the rest.

I truly loved every scene, moment, and minute of this movie. Best film of the year?

I’m not quite sure yet, but I do strongly encourage everyone to go see this film, at the South Hill Cinema, just as I did.

ShyforShy exceeds expectaions Not new to the music industry, the Seattle native ShyforShy reaches new heights in their latest albulm

BY CHRIS SCHROLL

EDITORIAL-BOARD It’s been said that “everything is bigger in Texas.” This saying holds true for Seattle born band, ShyforShy. In a bold move, the group moved to Texas after Monroe, Wash. based producing studio, Destiny Worldwide, recorded “So in Time,” which hit the airwaves on Sept. 15.

Led by the distinct voice of Ryan Martinez, that is said to resemble that of Circa Survive’s Anthony Green, but with his own touch obvious in the way each song is sung. Accompanied by Caleb Connaway (guitar), Sten Johansen (bass), and Matthew Ellis (drums), the group has hit it big in the Seattle scene.

Formed in 2008, the band originally featured Lyle Mattson at vocals and Alex Buck on bass. Shortly after, Mattson gave up his duties at vocals, but he didn’t leave the band completely. He now acts as their booking agent and manages their online social networking.

Since moving to Texas, the band has done a lot of selfbooking, leaving Mattson with only his online duties.

Then Martinez took over vocals for the band. In early 2009, Buck parted ways with ShyforShy and Johansen was introduced as the bands new bassist.

A big part of the band’s success is the devotion to their fans. The members regularly interact with their fans on a personal level, staying after shows to

Photo’s by ShyforShy and Rotten Tomatoe

guitar riffs I’ve heard. The strong drum riffs of Ellis can really be heard throughout this track, and those beats have proven to be the backbone of their music.

To be honest, the five track stretch of “Antioch,” “Make Believe,” “Look Alive,” “Angel,” and “Olivia” is the best part of the entire CD. “Angel” and “Olivia” are remakes of ShyforShy classics. They are bigger and better and are sure to be hits among listeners.

ShyforShy has already had big breaks, playing with the likes of Danger Radio, The Classic Crime, The Cab, A Rocket to the Moon, and Hey Monday. The quick and big success of ShyforShy tells us they won’t be disappearing any time soon.

For their first full length album, ShyforShy didn’t disappoint. Listeners won’t be surprised by the quality of the album. ShyforShy put much of the same energy that earned fans into this album. They are a solid core of musicians, all extremely talented at what they do.

You won’t find this CD on store shelves though. It is only available online, at smartpunk.com and iTunes for $9.99.

talk, going out to eat after a performance with fans and friends, and communicating via social networking sites on a daily basis. The friendly attitude of the band makes them enjoyable on a different level than just what their music offers.

When you play the album, skip to track six and you find one of my favorites of the entire album, “Antioch.” Although I prefer the first version of this song, I still found most of the same enjoyment in the mastered version. The vocals reach a new height in this track, the instruments are explosive and add a lot of depth to the song.

The next track is my favorite of the entire album.

“Make Believe” starts out with one of the catchiest one star-poor two stars-average three stars-good four stars-great

CD REVIEW

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jagwire

FEATURE

621 Fifth St. S.W., Puyallup WA 98373 (253) 840-3354

BY JACOB ROOS

REPORTER

DISCOVER the DECEPTION

There's a time in everyone's life, usually in kindergarten, when they go in front of family and peers to announce what they aspire to be when they are "grown up". A good portion of those fresh young minds will say that they want to become a firefighter. For those of us that didn't say it, and even for those who did, they have built a fine deli.

Upon walking in, I became what kindergartners wish they could be, a fireman. Until I left Spark's Firehouse Deli I was constantly expecting the alarm to go off, for me jump into the fire truck, and speed off to fight fires. Although this didn't happen, I did experience a little bit of fire. The good kind that leaves your mouth watering. When I decided to eat at the Firehouse I didn't know what to expect. I'd have to say that I myself, am not much of a sandwich man, but I now am.

Spark's Firehouse Deli, located next to Spark's Stadium, is set up in New York fashion. There are cozy stools set around bars, and a few tables. However, in this deli all around you is firefighting equipment and memorabilia. There are old fire suits and helmets all over the the walls. I ended up sitting at the table with old newspapers about a fire that had overtaken Spark's Stadium decades before. The atmosphere was one that you wont forget easily.

Though the alarm didn't go off to set me in hero mode and signify fire, almost every menu item is fire grilled. There were so many fire grilled sandwiches that i had a pretty hard time deciding, but after staring at the giant chalkboard menu I decided upon "The Brigade".

Salami, ham, and pepperoni, with provolone cheese and lettuce fire grilled to perfection. I must say its been a long time since I have been so

‘For all who are interested in Americas role in the Middle East, ‘The Duel’ is a book for you.

BY SEAN KLIES REPORTER

What if you were to know that nearly five billion U.S. dollars had been given, over the last decade, to Pakistan as part of a two-fold deal to fund the ‘War on Terror.’ It is probably not a fact that is widely known, that the US is currently funding the Pakistani government in exchange for money to fund the US’ own anti-terror campaign.

This little surprising fact (and more) can be found on the inside flap to Tariq Ali’s ‘The Duel,’ both a historical documentation and an

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satisfied with a sandwich. Although the price is a little steep at about $9 for a sandwich, I'd

have to say it was worth it. I plan on going back, and if you are sick of boring, un-grilled ham sandwiches for lunch you should too.

Take some friends and spend a little time there, its well worth it.

examination of US-Pakistani relations.

Tariq Ali, a native of Pakistan (when he is not being banned from entering the country) is a writer, film director, and much more; successfully weaves history, review, and personal accounts.

The book itself is mainly about Pakistan’s birth and its relations, or mainly dependency on foreign powers, including the now defunct British Empire. Tariq Ali manages to make the book more personal than any observatory historical text or review, by knitting childhood stories, his own interactions with the people and even interviews with despised governmental leaders.

BY ALANNA NUGENT

EDITORIAL-BOARD

Environment: 5 Food: 4 Service: 5

For those of you who have ever thought or dreamt about becoming a firefighter, there is now a place you can go to eat like one. Sparks Firehouse Deli is just like being in a real fire station, except it’s a deli.

Just walk inside, and the smell of fire-grilled sandwiches and pizza surrounds you. If you look up, you will see a red siren flashing and spinning around the celling. On the walls are memorabilia of fallen heroes and old fire stations. Finally, if you glance down at the tables you will see old newspaper clippings from Puyallup High School’s newspaper, The Vanguard, as well as local newspapers, about fires that have taken place around and in Sparks Stadium. You become fully immersed in a place of sanctuary where firefighters can feel appreciated.

Yet his branching off does not effect the validity of the facts, but helps enrich the plight of the people of Pakistan. The people who are caught in the middle between the militaristic government and the righteous religious class.

The title not only refers to that of the relationship between the US and Pakistan, but of the ever-going struggle between the government and the people, the people and fundamentalists and so on and so forth.

There is much to be had in ‘The Duel,’ as it is an eye opening experience, a near literal dissection of the dichotomy of US-Pakistani affairs. Ali Tariq even manages to get a few inverted laughs

Now its time to eat. Sparks Firehouse Deli offers a wide variety of sandwiches, pizza and breakfast foods. I ordered up the pizza sandwich, which consisted of marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese on slices of sourdough bread all fire-grilled to perfection. With each sandwich purchase you can order a side of either coleslaw, potatoes, or beans. I personally did not order a side with my meal. However, I had wanted to add pepperoni slices to my sandwich. I did not bring enough money to pay for the pepperoni toppings however. Being that I did not order a side, the woman at the register gave me free pepperoni slices. Now that’s what I call service.

The food is definetely outstanding, but needs help with the price. I mean 9 dollars for one sandwich? That’s just a little overpriced.

Don’t let the price scare you away though, the experience you will have just walking into this small deli will not be forgotten. So get yourself downtown and eat at the Firehouse Deli and remember the firefighters risking their lives so we can enjoy ours.

with his dry humor, peppered throughout the text (for example, in one footnote translating the Arabic title of Pakistan’s first ruler into English: ‘The Great Leader,’ he asks the reader to translate it into German politely.)

Americans spend so much time unaware and uninterested in the workings of the world around them.

Sure, there are whispers of that crazy midget in North Korea with the nukes, or how about that crazy anti-Semite with the funny, unpronounceable name in that middle-eastern country? Was it Iraq or Iran?

Photos by Amanda Wyma, Aubrey Kendall, Nathan Mccurtain

MOE- Oh Slight Stoopid, you caress my ears with your nostalgic waves of beach jams. I picture myself on a sandy shore, sun on my face, tropical drink from condensation, and watching the salty ocean break and roll back.

KATILYN- Slightly Stoopid’s Chronchitis album makes me feel like I should be in Jamaica with my toes in the sand and drinking virgin piña coladas. At the same time, their music has an edgy twist on traditional ROSS- The watery reggae sound “beachy music”, which makes is what draws me into this disc. It’s you want to just jam to the one of the flowiest things to ever beat. hit my eardrums. The lyrics, while somewhat hard to understand with the Rosta accents, are almost hypnotic. I can’t help but think of wandering city streets by myself.

QUINN- Slightly Stoopid has a calm simplistic sound that I can appreciate. Although their reggae sound interests me, I wouldn’t say that I have found my new favorite. They aren’t exactly my cup of tea.

QUINN- I like the upbeat music Operation Ivy makes. The intense vocals and motion they make almost force the listener to tap their foot and nod their head to the beat.

KATILYN- Operation Ivy has a monotone style. They have a tone that makes you like them, even though their singing can drive you crazy.

They are good, but definitely not the best.

MOE- What a great band Oakland,CA has spit from its golden bowels. Operation Ivy is one punk band that I can immediately pick out of a crowd of average punk music. It is definitely a band to listen to when your angry, rebellious, and with all of your best buds.

ROSS- There’s not another band to my knowledge that fuses punk rock and ska better than this rough Oakland quartet. I like the way they make deliberate reference to a classic punk’s lifestyle, with their pessemistic yet energetic approach to growing up, drug addiction and authority. What can I say? This CD makes me happy.

OPERATION IVY SLIGHTLY STOOPID CHRONCHITIS

OPERATION IVY

KATILYN- Css’ album Donkey is filled with songs that have a great beat to them.

They make me feel enlightened and excited to be listening to upbeat music.

The only annoying thing about this band is that their singer has a monotone voice. Overall, I enjoy this band and like how upbeat their music is.

QUINN- I generally enjoy CSS for their use of driving beats to reel you into their music. The retro-vibe they create makes me want to smile and dance along to the song.

ROSS- CSS seems to have a techno-pop sensation that reminds me of the electronic outbreak of the late 1990’s. The catchy tunes stuck out so much that I didn’t take much from listening to the lyrics.

MOE- Yay! MTV throw up another duet with a soundsystem their parents bought them for Christmas. Repetitive beats and lyrics of wild girls and free flowing booze doesn’t really surprise me from this Midwest flop. If you like two white guys, typical music, and lyrics that the radio will most likely play, then buy this album.

DONKEY

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WAN

MOE- This album disappointed me.

That might just be my taste in music but the combination of electronic girl rock, awkward keyboard placement, and sloppy synthesizer didn’t help influence my opinion at all. I give them kudos for the confidence in their art form though.

ROSS- To me, this just sounds like some stereotypical rap with a slight rock undertone, but not of low quality. They sounded dead serious but the stuff they were saying was actually pretty funny.

I must say they rap pretty well for a couple of white boys.

KATILYN-3oh!3’s album Want is an album where every single song is completely different. 3oh!3 is a band where you can’t really expect anything from them but pure entertainment. I love 3oh!3. Enough said.

THE SOUNDOFF

QUINN- I have always been a huge fan of 3OH!3. The blend of rap, harmonic vocals, and techno beats is what intriges me the most about their music. Their I-don’t-care attitude really reflects into their songs and I admire that.

Friday, October 23

See-Saw! Whether you’re a diehard fan, or just in the mood for a horror-flick, Saw VI is finally here, so grab a friend and be prepared to scream!

Sunday, November 1

Joshua Radin Take a drive up to Neumos and catch this alternative artist as he performs in the Emerald City.

Saturday, October 24

Carve Pumpkins Whether you’re seven or 17, picking out the perfect pumpkin and carving it its very own face is never old!

Friday, October 30

Whip-It! Watch Devo perform live at the Moore Theater downtown Seattle. If you’re really feeling like shaking it up, bring a friend and spend the evening in the city together!

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Giving you the low down on the South Sound

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Halloween Party Invite all your friends to a costume party and play a round of Mafia, or watch your favorite Halloween movie together. You could even bake orange cupcakes, or bob for apples!

Saturday, October 31

Autumn Cleaning It’s almost too cold to spend time outside, so while you still can, why not rake up those leaves in the front yard and mow the lawn!

Sunday, November 8

Sounders Game Head up to QWEST Field and watch as the Seattle Sounders FC take on FC Dallas. Win or lose, they’re headed to the playoffs!

Sunday, October 25

Saturday, November 7

Trick-or-Treat Dress up as your favorite celebrity, animal, or create your own costume. You’re still qualified to or-treat if you can still be creative.

Friday, November 13

A-Night-In Since it’s not the luckiest of days, just stay home. Relax with the family and enjoy!

DOWN

Friday, November 6

“A Christmas Carol” in I-MAX This Christmas favorite is coming to the Pacific Science Center’s I-MAX theater!

Get in the holiday spirit as early as possible with Disney’s rendition of one of the classics on opening night!

Saturday, November 14

Game-on

Celebrate National Gaming Day at the downtown Puyallup public library. Join libraries across the count for a Guitar Hero and Super-Smash Brothers tournament.

Sunday, November 15 Swing Dancing Dying to try a new form of dance? For only $11 you can attend a short swing-dancing seminar and dance.