JagWire | Volume 12 | Issue 3 | Nov. 18, 2011 by JagWire

J ag W i re { { A Limited forum for student expression

An in-depth look at the lives of

Military Families

Emerald Ridge High School

12405 184th St E Puyallup, WA 98374 November 18, 2011 Volume XII Issue III

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volume xIi issue IIi November 18, 2011

In Brief

Emerald Ridge Royalty

ASL Craft Bazaar

Daffodil Princess

On Nov. 12th, Emerald Ridge’s first annual holiday bazaar took place in the commons. Vendors ranged from DNA Woodworks, Miche purses, Scentsy candles, to Ardent Photography and Lizzy’s Quilt’s ‘N Moore. The majority of booths sold jewelery, baby gifts, hair accessories, and handmade crafts and designs.

he Daffodil Princess was selected the night of Nov. 15. After a two hour ceremony of introductions, speeches, questions, and performances, the winner was announced. The Daffodil Princess for the 2011-2012 school year is Katey Della-Guistina.

“We’re really thrilled to have put the event together,” said ASL teacher Jessica Mattson, who helped put together the bazaar. “We’re fortunate to work with volunteers of the community. I couldn’t have been more pleased.”

KING

College/Community Service Fair Be sure to check out the upcoming community service and college fair. The community service fair will be held on Tuesday, Feb. 28, during Jag and Advisory. Approximately 30 services will come, from the Puyallup Food Bank to Habitat for Humanity. These services will share how their organizations gives back to the community, and how students can help. The college fair will be on Thursday, Mar. 1, during Jag and Advisory. Over 50 colleges will be attending, sharing information with students such as admission requirements, general information and how to prepare for post high school planning preparation.

{ Claire Benson - News Editor }

{ Virginia Van Keuren - JagWire }

of the

JUNGLE

ing of the Jungle is the male version of the Daffodil Princesses. It’s a fun competition for the Senior guys of Emerald Ridge. Each guy performed one talent and had a bio read off. The winner received votes based on the most spirit. The winner was Jordon Speckhardt, who did the Jag Jacket cheer. { Virginia Van Keuren - JagWire }

{ Candace Swenson - Arts and Entertainment Editor }

Interact and key club

Hosa blood drive The blood drive on Nov. 3, 2011, was a success. 124 students participated, making this drive the highest number of participants ever. The blood is used to transfer through Multicare Health and Regional Blood Services to help our community’s accident victims, blood transfers, low blood, or an emergency situation. “It went very successful in the endeavor to get blood. The Jags have saved lives, and should be proud,” said senior Taylor Klinefelter. However, one thing HOSA advisor Jody Wickett wants everyone to know is that if a student is going to give blood, he or she must eat that day. Wickett claims that the most people who had problems were those that didn’t eat. Make sure to donate blood in the upcoming drive on Feb. 9, 2012. { Grace Amsden - Reporter }

{ Erica Reynolds - JagWire }

ey and Interact club, a community service club run by advisor Pati McMullan, is starting Giftmakers, an organization at a church in downtown Puyallup that gives toys to needy families who cannot afford them. This organization will be held from Dec. 2 to Dec. 3. High school students from Emerald Ridge, Rogers, and Puyallup all pitch in to help with drives all over Puyallup to collect items for Giftmakers. Soles For Souls is a drive that provides gently used shoes for children and adults in places like Africa, for kids can’t go to school because they have no shoes. “If you donate a pair of shoes your sending a kid to school,” said junior Katie Wiesen. There are five countries and 125 continents that are the main components for distributing gently used shoes. The idea came from the tragedy in Haiti when a man witnessed shoes being washed on shore and was inspired to create an organization. The community service club is involved in a lot each year. They are involved in organization such as Operation Turkey Drop, which provides big boxes of thanksgiving food for families in need, Operation Santa Claus and Operation Hipity Hop. The club has a lot of people involved, including 135 members and nine officers. “Each officer takes to heart the whole concept of helping others,” said McMullan. “I’m really touched with their giving spirit.” The Interact and Key Club is a combination of Interact and Key Club, the largest club in the district. Members in this club are always lettering in community service. “New members are always welcome, great way to be connected, great way to be connected in school, and with community members,” said McMullan. { Erica Reynolds - Reporter }

volume xIi issue III November 18, 2011

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Reppin’ red, white, and blue Veterans day, celebrated anually was remembered through songs, videos, speeches and veteran’s company

eterans Day is a holiday to praise people in the military, past or present. Veterans Day is on Nov. 11 because the fighting of World War I ended on the eleventh hour of { Virginia Van Keuren - JagWire } the eleventh day of Nov. The war officially ended with the signing of the Treaty of Versailles, signed on June 28, 1919. Originally, Veterans Day was called Armistice Day, declared by President Wilson. “Our student body did an outstanding job of honoring veterans through their behavior,” said psychology teacher Ben Muehlenbruch. “With the help of the band, choir, orchestra and guests.” After the performance of multiple songs, the audience was asked to stand showing the amount of students who have relatives, currently or in the past, who have served in the military. In the background of the performers was a screen with the projection of family members currently enlisted in the military, again emphasizing the amount of family members who are serving. The speakers of the assembly were Lt. Col. USAFR James Dianan and Chief Master Sergent Scott Terpening. Dianan had wanted to fly planes since he was four years old. He was unsure of how to reach this goal, as nobody in his family was in the military. After college, he played in a band and joined the Navy. Once he got out of the Navy, he enlisted in the air force in 1998. “You can’t discover new oceans unless you have the courage to lose sight of the shore.” said Dianan. Terpening went to college right after high school. He then went on to join the Air Force for the work experience and now has been in the air force for 22 years. Currently, he is working towards his master’s degree. “Life is an interview, what are you doing to prepare?” said Terpening. { Ryan Chavez - Beat Editor }

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New faces of school board

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ane Looker filled position two, defeating Theresa Pasquier with a 56% vote. A former NFL player, Dane has invested much of his time in the community. Puyallup has always been his home, and he has invested time as a volunteer coach along with other positions. His list of true professional credentials is relatively short, but he feels that he has the necessary skills to win this election.

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osition five was filled by Chris Ihrig, who defeated Uphaus with a 51% vote. The current Board director and legislative representative who has served on numerous school committees has been a part of the district for some time. He believes that the district has to face its challenges head on in order to maintain any stability in a unpredictable market surrounding education. He also seeks to unlock the potential of all the district’s students both in academics and in life.

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osition three was filled by Pat Jenkins, who defeated Snyder with a 52% vote. A native of Puyallup who has children attending school in the district, Pat feels that it is his job to give back to the district. His main motivations are to improve the schools and help with the budget crisis, which is causing a huge shortcoming in the education of the districts students. He also believes that everyone has a voice in the community and that everyone helps. { Doug Mayovsky - Reporter }

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volume XII issue III November 18, 2011

Staff Editor-in-Chief...........................................................Quinn Sanderson Features Editor/Ed Board.................................................Amaya Adams Copy Editor/Ed Board.............................................Virginia Van Keuren News Editor.....................................................................Claire Benson Athletics Editor..................................................................Kelsey Lyon Opinion Editor.................................................................Sydney Dawn Arts & Entertainment Editor.......................................Candace Swenson Sound Off Editor.................................................................Sarah Allen Beat Designer................................................................... Ryan Chavez Reporters.......................................................................Grace Amsden ...........................................................................................Levi Dodd ....................................................................................Doug Mayovsky .....................................................................................Erica Reynolds .....................................................................................Krista Riccardi ............................................................................................Josie Ruiz .............................................................................................Asha Taft Adviser.............................................................................Kevin Smyth The Very Fine Print 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. Our top priority is to raise awareness while covering a wide variety of issues effecting our readership. We will publish an engaging newsmagazine which will entice, excite, and engage. 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 substaintially disrupt the school process. Letter to the editor may be submitted by mailing them to JagWire c/o Emerald Ridge High School or emailing them to jagwire

he recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance in public schools has always been controversial. The controversy at John Stanford International Elementary School in Seattle has lead me to remind you of its importance. In Seattle Time’s article, Stanford’s new principal Jesely Alvarez sent out a letter to parents that said, “‘It’s time to ‘move forward’ in ‘following state law’.” Most people don’t realize the meaning behind the Pledge of Allegiance and why we say it. It is more than a state policy. It is a privilege and honor regarding our freedom, rights and opportunity to live in our “one nation under God.” It’s not something we do just because it’s routine. Instead it’s a daily reminder of how our history has made life easier and made us proud to say we are Americans. Saying the pledge is voluntary. John Stanford elementary school is now following Washington state law that states “flag exercises to be held in each classroom at the beginning of the school day” and “those pupils so desiring shall recite the following salute to the flag: ‘I pledge allegiance to the flag...and justice for all’ and “students not reciting the pledge shall maintain a respectful silence.” Therefore don’t

“Everyone should be proud we live in a Nation where we have freedom of speech, religion, fair trials and restricted government.”

Corrections JagWire staff values accuracy in every aspect of our publication. We wish to correct the errors that we do make and extend an apology for any inconvenience to our readership. If you believe that we have made an error, please contact us at: erhs.jagwire@gmail.com.

Boys (44%)

Both (49%)

Girls (7%) Front Cover Photo The cover photograph was taken by Quinn Sanderson.

argue that your child will be punished or forced to participate in this exercise. It’s their own free will. What’s the problem? In the Seattle Time’s article, Haley Sides, parent of a half Jamaican daughter attending Stanford, was stating her concern that the international school “emphasizes thinking globally”, yet it “institutes something that makes our children think that this country alone is where their allegiance lies.” We are in America for a reason and Sides must have moved here for a reason as well. If we were in other nations, they would ask us to recite their pledge or at least be quiet; its a matter of mutual respect. Our nation is multicultural but is not multinational; we are “one nation,” something Sides does not seem to understand. Everyone should be proud to live in a nation where we have freedom of speech, religion, fair trials and restricted government. We should all be at least a little bit patriotic. Everyone should stand up towards our flag every morning with our hands over our hearts and pledge our allegiance to our nation. { Josie Ruiz - Reporter }

Who’s funnier?

Advertising Mission 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 atheletes by photo or text will not be accepted (WIAA 18.20.0 and 18.20.1). The staff will not accept advertising that is racist, sexist or illegal for high school students. Advertisements do not necessarily reflect the views, endorsements, and/or positions of the staff of JagWire, student body, faculty, administration, or school board.

Seattle pledge controversy

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volume xiI issue iII November 18, 2011

Apple Monopoly

Is Apple taking over the world?

t almost feels like the words “MP3 player” have disappeared from our vocabulary. Not because the MP3 player itself has ceased to exist; it is actually still prevalent. This is because everyone has just one brand of MP3 player: the iPod. No one even thinks of an iPod as an MP3 player anymore; they almost view it as something of higher standards. This is appalling and should not stand. The iPod, and any other members of the “i” line products, quite simply pails in comparison to the myriad of other options, and the only reason they remain in such popularity is due to Apple Inc.’s “reputation” and entrapping business strategies. Apple tries to trap its customers through dominating every aspect of their media lives. If you buy even one Apple product it tries to force you into buying all Apple products. For example, let’s say someone buys an iPhone. Then he or she decides to buy a tablet. But instead of going for the expensive iPad, he or she want to buy a smaller brand tablet. Unfortunately, Apple won’t let anyone transfer over anything from an Apple phone to a non-Apple tablet. Other brands of tablets, such as Huawei and HTC, use the droid operating system, and allow users to share between these brands as much as you want. This is the system that works, brands sharing

the same market so that no one is bounded to one brand in order to keep purchases. The most frightening part about Apple’s monopoly is how other companies are so easily supporting it. Recently, car manufacturers have begun to install iPod docks in their cars, not an MP3 dock, not a USB port so anything with USB capability can play music through the docks. An iPod dock. Shutting out all other brands and once again leaving all the spoils to Apple. As hundreds of new customers flock to Apple for the convenience of using an MP3 player in their car, Apple’s monopoly only grows stronger. Hundreds of customers are denied access to other brands thanks to Apple’s monopoly on the MP3 player industry. According to the Tech Crunch website, owning an iPod costs more than owning a different MP3 player or phone. 57% of applications on the droid marketplace are free compared to a measly 28% in iTunes. In addition, Apple’s rules about what kind of applications it allows are a lot more restricting than the rules of the droid market. The Apple monoploy is wrong. We are proud supporters of droid smart-phones and a Huawei tablets. We support the little guys and try to give them a fighting chance against this monstrosity. { Levi Dodd - Reporter }

Tribal trouble

hh, to be different. So fresh and so edgy. Do not mistake the carefully placed rips and fringe on these acid-wash jeans for some department store find! To most people who were old enough to have dressed themselves in the 1980’s (and before), shopping at Urban Outfitters (UO) would be like stepping into a time machine. With its distinct facade - mismatched and gender ambiguous - today’s young mavericks were lured into wearing what they think is unique. By reproducing the rejects and commodities of years past, the majority of people who were offended by Urban Outfitters, thus far, were our parents. Now, one more name can be added to the list. Recently, UO made a splash in the news when the company went head to head with a certain Native American government. The trend of tribal has been circulating its way on and off the runway for years. Never before has this been a problem, until a specific identifier was attached to it: Navajo. UO had several Navajo-trademarked items for sale. The most controversial items being ladies underwear and a liquor flask, two items “that many tribal members consider disrespectful,” as reported by the Associated Press. While I don’t believe the undergarments looked too risque, there is an obvious problem with the liquor flask, as it represents an ugly stereotype that Native Americans are aggressive drinkers. Native Americans are one of the most frequently stereotyped group of people, yet it goes most unnoticed in society. Need an example? See any high school ‘Brave’ mascot and chances are he’s holding a tomahawk, or is wearing a headdress. The problem wasn’t necessarily that UO claimed that its cheap imported products resemble anything ‘classically’ Native American. The issue arises when the word Navajo is attached to it, and the Navajo government doesn’t get a cut of the money. Monopoly was given to the Navajo government regarding the trademark of its name in 2008. As long as permission and money is given, the Navajo Nation doesn’t have a problem with it. Apparently, UO realized its short end of the stick, as its once “Navajo Print Fabric Wrapped Flask” is now just “Print Fabric Wrapped Flask”. Lesson learned, UO? Don’t be so stingy! You’ve probably got the whole audience on Chictopia at your beck and call. Kudos to the Navajos. { Amaya Adams - Feature Editor }

“Apple tries to trap its customers through dominating every aspect of their media lives.”

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volume xiI issue iII November 18, 2011

volume xIi issue iII November 18, 2011

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35% of students

have a member of their immediate family deployed

27% of students

have a member of their immediate family enrolled in the military

21% of students

plan on enlisting in the military after high school

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The survey was compiled by Krista Riccardi and is out of 527 students surveyed.

Life with a parent deployed

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volume xiI issue iII November 18, 2011

he Iraq war, which has claimed so many lives, is over, and all of the troops we had in Iraq are pulling out in a total military withdrawal. The troops are supposed to be back before Christmas. When Obama took office as the president, he declared that he would make sure all of our troops would be out of Iraq and back home by 2012. Now that promise is becoming a reality as the combat mission in Iraq comes to a close, one that dragged on for over nine years. At present, 40,000 families are preparing to welcome their family back home after their tour in the middle east, and over 41,000 servicemen and women are looking forward to the day when they can embrace those they left. Returning servicemen were always embraced as they touched down on U.S. soil. Families put up “welcome home” banners outside the houses and throw small parties. Other events are more public. Airports sometimes literally roll out a red carpet and gather all the people together as they disembark the planes. These kind of things are expected to become much more frequent and larger due to the massive number of people coming home, especially during the holiday season. For many, this has come too late. Almost 4,500 U.S. troops have died in this conflict. Families were often sad and angry about our continuance in this war. Funerals were given to the fallen, but many people believe that this entire thing should have ended a long time ago. The key factors that led to this final withdrawal were the casualties and huge war debt we accumulated. This conflict also triggered massive civilian demonstrations. Just like the “hippies” from the seventies, many people here in the U.S. have done rallies and marches demanding that the U.S. must pull out of Iraq. These groups gained massive followings and now, after years of waiting, their requests have been heard enough to prompt definitive action.

ophomore McKenzie Dent is one among many to have a When he’s away, Dent and her family face other struggles, which parent deployed in the Army National Guard. Dent’s dad, is mainly picking up extra weight around the house. Daniel Dent, is a lieutenant colonel, the National Guard “We eventually get into a groove and when he comes back we 166th Aviation Brigade, and has been enlisted in the military for have to rework everything again,” said Dent. 19 years. Though having her dad serve in the “My dad’s tours last for about a year and he visits home for military might add extra stress on the about two weeks in the middle of that besides when he is stationed family, it does not change her love for in the U.S for about a year her father in any way. and half between tours,” said Though Dent doesn’t Dent.“When he’s away, I think y dad taught me that to live with her dad every he has a lot of time to think day of every year, she gain respect from others you has still learned valuable about who he is as a person. And when he visited in July, I first need to respect yourself morals from him. could tell his whole personality “My dad taught me was much more loving and and that faith should not be that to gain respect from caring.” others you first need to done halfway She also explained some respect yourself and that struggles with not having her dad by her side every day. faith should not be done halfway,” Dent said. “When he comes home, especially for the short breaks, it’s “He is strict and he has rules and expectations really hard because his mind is in a totally different place. It’s kind that are enforced. But, he also has another side of scary almost,” said Dent. that we don’t see very often. He is generous and Little sudden noises often make several people jump, but for funny and loving.” nt utena e Daniel Dent it is a whole other story. It is obvious the love Dent feels for her dad. e i L , in th ather “One time we went to Red Robin and obviously got balloons and “I would be very happy if I could marry a man her f deployed h t i w one of them popped and he thought it was a gunshot and flipped exactly like my father,” Dent said. rently nds t sta ho is cur n e D out. Another time, we were pulling out of the airport and my dad nzie ent, w McKe l Daniel D ard. saw the headlights of another car and freaked out.” { Claire Benson - News Editor } ne al Gu Colo ation N y m Ar

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“40,000 families are preparing to welcome their family back home after their tour in the middle east, and over 41,000 servicemen and women are looking forward to the day when they can embrace those they left.”

It runs in the family

May no soldier T go unloved

his year students have had one or both of their parents deployed during the holidays. Many students celebrate different holidays without their deployed parent or parents, but not in the same way they would if their parents weren’t away. Sophomore Kyle Jochen’s dad is currently overseas, and as a result, Jochen’s holiday plans have been altered. Traditionally, since Jochen’s parents are divorced, Jochen would stay with his dad to celebrate Christmas, but this year he is required to travel to Texas to spend winter break with his mom. His dad has been in the Army for five years now, more specifically in the Explosive Ordnance Disposal, which is also commonly known as the bomb squad. Jochen believes the celebrations are normal compared to when he was at his dad’s, except for one old tradition. “My dad likes to cook. When he’s home, we usually will cook a lot more food,” said Jochen. However, one tradition Jochen has is to invite all the other soldiers in his dad’s unit over for Thanksgiving if they aren’t deployed as well. “It helps to create a family of people experiencing the same thing,” said Jochen. Thankfully, there are numerous programs to help soldiers and their families not only during the holidays, but year-round. For example, Soldiers’ Angels, founded in 2003, is a nonprofit volunteer led support program that has been caring for soldiers and their families. “May No Solider Go Unloved” motivates the numerous hard working volunteers to do what they do everyday. The Soldiers Angels’ program can be found online at The Soldier’s Angels website where you can donate money directly from the website, or find the addresses to send items for care packages. “I think the Soldiers’ Angels will help the militay keep their hopes up. I think it’s a great program,” said Jochen. Other programs can be found online as well, some specifying to certain branches. Remember this holiday, those who have or are serving our country, and the families left behind. { Sarah Allen - Sound Off Editor }

{ Doug Mayovsky - Reporter }

Senior

Staff S

Shayne

ome families have one member in the military; some have generations of military members. It usually starts off with their grandpa to their dad, then eventually the child wants to join the service as well. Usually it’s the influence their family gives them to continue on the service throughout the family. “When I was about nine I witnessed my older brother, Sean, being sworn in the Air Force and my other brother Shannon, I saw graduate from Army boot camp,” Senior Shayne Sawyer said. “I thought it was the coolest thing ever.” Many people think that growing up in a military family is hard. They would always be moving because your parents are being stationed somewhere for about three years. Also the fact that they would have strict parents because you would feel like there is no freedom in doing what you want when you want. There is no escape from the moving aspect, but some parents aren’t all that strict as they may seem. “[Life is] fairly easy because the military supplied us with benefits, but it’s been hard because I have had to completely start over with friends,” said Sawyer. Most children want to join the same service as their father or grandfather because they heard stories about it from them or just simply because they look up to that branch as the number one branch. If a child was brought up in a family where their father was a Coast Guard, they would grow up influenced to join the Coast Guard. “I grew up influenced on Air Force rather than the Coast Guard like my father because my brother Sean told me all about it when I was young,” said Sawyer. Being in a military family also includes military biases and certain perspectives. Someone in a military family would support one issue more so than an average person based on their experience in the family. An issue like the troops being out in war and continuing to be in other countries rather than the one were supposed to be fighting. Normal families would see that as pointless, and military families would see that as progress. “My perspectives is to have more discipline and pushing yourself harder to being successful and doing what is right rather than what is fun,” said Sawyer. Sawyer plans to become a Para Rescuer or a Mechanical Engineer in the Air Force. But first he would like to attend a four-year university studying in Law and Engineering.

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{ Candace Swensen - Arts and Entertainment Editor}

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Petty Offi cer One R aymond Sawyer

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Life with a parent deployed

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volume xiI issue iII November 18, 2011

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It runs in the family

May no soldier T go unloved

{ Doug Mayovsky - Reporter }

Senior

Staff S

Shayne

Sawye

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{ Candace Swensen - Arts and Entertainment Editor}

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Petty Offi cer One R aymond Sawyer

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volume xiI issue iII November 18, 2011

Kicking Their Way to Playoffs

fter achieving their goal of making it to playoffs, the girls soccer team deserves a celebration. With the coaches providing the players the tools they needed to succeed, they pushed through the season with a strong finish of second place. “After our tryouts in August, and seeing what we had for a team, I was very optimistic that we could contend for the top 3 spots in our division,” coach Dan Stueckle said. “I am proud of what we were able to accomplish this season. Like any season, we had our ups and downs, but I think the girls responded well and worked hard to improve.” Improvement was one of the many goals established at the beginning of the season. Along with good compatibility with teammates and playing their best, the girls accomplished a lot to be proud of this season. “I think their determination really showed this year. Each of our players got a chance to show what they could contribute,” said Stueckle. “Many of our players showed great versatility in being able to play two and sometimes three different positions. I thought the girls were coach-able and showed great effort in going with our style of play and how we wanted to work together.” { Kelsey Lyon - Athletics Editor }

Keeley Davidson

Elizabeth Clemens

un mile one with your legs. Run mile two with your mind. Run mile three with your heart. Junior Keeley Davidson makes it looks easy. She makes it look effortless. She’s a cross country runner with determination and skill. “In competitions I think about how I’m going to do my best,” said Davidson. Davidson recently made it to state in cross country. She described it as her greatest achievement. Ever since fifth grade Davidson has been distance running. Her friends motivate her the most. In cross country everybody encourages everybody. Her role model is her coach Gary Osborne. Him and his wife, Karrie, coach the cross country team. “Mr.Osborne is just like another runner on the team,” said Davidson. One thing people don’t know about Davidson is that she isn’t the best writer. “I’ve never gotten above a B in any of my English classes,” said Davidson. Cross country made Davidson want to keep her grades on track. With hopes of a scholarship, Davidson will pursue her dreams of running cross country in college.

he swim and dive team are sending two amazing athletes to state, Elizabeth Clemens and Alana Pries. For junior Elizabeth Clemens it only took her dedication and natural born skill to achieve. She has a background of gymnastics so the skill she built from doing it made dive a lot easier for her. But the sport isn’t always a piece of cake; sometimes she has struggles to find the strength in her self. When that happens she looks up to someone who knows what she’s talking about and can give great advice at moments like those, her coach Susie Miller. Her words are very supportive to Clemens and they help her stay positive. “I trust her knowledge in diving,” Clemons said. Even though times do get rough she tries to stay positive. For any sport to be fun the athlete has to take some breaks, which is why Clemens doesn’t practice outside of dive season. Clemens’ practice does pay off for her though taking her all the way to state. She’s not nervous and is going to treat it like any other meet. Clemens is actually excited to compete against all of the top contenders. But she is afraid of one thing. “ I’m terrified of messing up in front of such a large crowd,” said Clemens.

{ Asha Taft - Reporter }

T { Keeley Davidson } Junior

{ Elizabeth Clemens } Junior

{ Krista Riccardi - Reporter }

Speedos, Splashes, and Success

ven after a tough season, the boys of the water polo team did not give up. They followed through and finished their season with determination. Going to state was nothing but another challenge for the boys. They pushed through until the end with a nail-biting game against Puyallup, ending in a score of 8 to 6. “We may not have been first in state, but we definitely looked the best,” said senior Anthony Trussel. Having good looks wasn’t the only thing to be proud of. Their persistence was constant throughout the season. “[They had a] great attitude. They never gave up, not once in the season. After a loss they just worked harder the next practice to overcome their shortfalls,” said Coach Dave McMullen. Establishing goals is a big part of achieving success. Some of the goals that the boys water polo team had were to make it to state and to earn the respect of their opponents. “[Going to state] was a good feeling. The boys struggled a lot this season to come together as a team and to pull it off at the end was very satisfying,” McMullen said. With many young players on the team, Jags are sure to have a good season for years to come. { Kelsey Lyon - Athletics Editor }

volume xiI issue iII november 18, 2011

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Alex Land: tough as nails T

he Merriam-Webster dictionary defines rugby as a continuous game of football without interference or forward passing; kicking, dribbling, lateral passing and tackling are permitted. Rugby was invented in the United Kingdom in the nineteenth century and, since then, has expanded around the world with multiple countries having their own teams. It is the cultural unity of rugby that draws senior Alex Land into this unusual sport. “I like the many types of cultures that go into rugby,” Land said. “It brings people together.” Her dad and brother’s experiences in rugby sparked Land’s interest. After watching the New Zealand All Blacks in the Rugby World Cup and local teams play, she decided to give it a try. “My dad wants me to do it and I want to make him proud,” Land said. Though most of her family and friends support her decision, there are some people in her life who don’t think she, as a girl, is tough enough to play such an aggressive sport. “Girls have more to prove playing a rough sport,” Land said. “[But rugby] is not just a guy’s sport; girls can play it too.” Land’s father is especially supportive of her playing rugby. “My dad is excited and is always taking me out to throw and train,” Land said. Land starts her first season on the Rainier girls rugby team this upcoming January. She previously played on co-ed teams and is

both excited and nervous to be on an all-girls team. Rainier is new and looking for more athletes to add to their program. “Any kind of girl can play no matter how old or what size,” Land said. “Everyone gets to play.” Central Washington University (CWU) has the most recognizable rugby program in the Pacific Northwest, winning its third straight league championship during the 2009-2010 season. It offers scholarships for rugby players to attend the university and play on the school’s team. “I didn’t know you could get a scholarship for rugby until my dad told me,” Land said. “Now I really want to get it so I can go to college.” Aside from rugby, Land enjoys painting, writing, and singing. If she were to receive the CWU scholarship, she would like to expand her artistic interests while studying art or art history. “I want to make myself known and people proud of me,” Land said. Land encourages any girl interested in playing rugby for the Rainier team to contact her and give it a try. {Quinn Sanderson - Editor in Chief }

{ Virginia Van Keuren - JagWire }

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volume xii issue iii November 18, 2011

ard stomps on the floor. Hands slapping with force. Pounding hearts overwhelmed with adrenaline. Slight moves across the platform. Everything too fast for the naked eye to see. Roar of the crowd. Thunder of rhythmic sounds working together as one. Mind, body, and soul. Listen, just listen. They call themselves “The Step Team”. Stepping goes beyond its natural meaning. The dictionary defines stepping as “the sound made by the foot in making such a movement.” “I would describe it as stepping and clapping to rhythm with purpose,” said Kelley Connor, the step team advisor. Stepping began in the mid-1900’s in African American fraternities and sororities. Since then, the dance has become more broad throughout America. “The stereotype about the step team is ridiculous,” said junior Dani Kaes, a step team manager. Anyone can dance. Connor encourages students to join the club even if they haven’t been to previous practices. There’s no experience needed to join. Unlike the cheerleading squad

and dance team, the Step Team doesn’t require tryouts to join. Connor warns that it is a painful sport. “To do stomping as loud and as fast takes a lot of practice,” said Connor. Junior Charity Gomez is the captain of the step team. Gomez treats being the captain of the step team more as a job than a hobby. “Charity is the powerhouse. She’s fun, talented, dynamic, and motivating,” said Connor. Last year, Gomez was a part of the step team and proved herself to be a leader. She is skilled at the art and strong at the sport. “[Gomez] is really good. She understands the collaborating process,” said Kaes. Many people like Gomez because of her will to keep working even on her good and bad days. “Charity is a good leader as far as getting people together. She is really encouraging,” said junior Justus Anderson, a step member. In high school, everybody tries to find their place that they fit in. The step team is a like a family, supporting each other. “I made a lot of friends for life from the step team. They’re my ride or dies,” said senior Kayla

Lynch, a step team member. After high school, Lynch wants to continue stepping and join another step team. Lynch believes the step team has made her a more confident person. Although the step team isn’t in every assembly like the cheerleading squad or dance team, when it is in an assembly, people take notice. “When I’m performing it feels like everything around me is gone. The crowd pumps me up,” said Lynch. Its presence radiates. It circles around the room so that every eye is looking at them. “After performing you look back on how you did and it’s really rewarding,” said Anderson. The step team’s next performance is the Winter Wishes assembly on December 16th. The following performance is the Martin Luther King Jr. assembly on Jan. 13. { Asha Taft - Reporter }

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Step Team prepares for its next performance at the Winter Wishes assembly.

Shane Collins Taking a look at what lies beneath that impenetrable mane.

ecently, Jag TV news has seen some new faces with the start of the new school year. Among them, one stands out more for his hair than his face. Senior Shane Collins made a few appearances on the school run program where his large Afro made him a face easy to remember. Collins gets a lot of questions about his unique choice of hairstyle. So, what question does he get most often? “The most common question is how long has it been since you cut it, which is three years,” Collins said. He gets a lot more questions then just how long he has been growing it out too. Collins said he also gets asked if he has to do anything to make his hairstyle the way it is. “I just wake up in the morning and it’s like this,” said Collins. It seems to get a strong and generally positive reaction from other students around the school as well. “He’s got a nice fro,” Senior Thomas Abbey said when asked about Collins.

Other students like junior Aiden Bullock can overhear the mere mention of an Afro and instantly think of Collins. While his hair might be the most obvious quality, it is certainly not the only important quality about Collins. “Not to much extra-curricular.” said Collins, when asked about his other interests in school. However, Collins does takes an interest in the video productions class. Collins said it was a friend who recommended video productions to him. From there it apparently seems to have stuck. It is due to his interest in video productions that he had a chance to appear on Jag TV News. Collins accepted and is happy with his current position on the news. “They needed an anchor, it’s decent and it gets me out of advisory,” said Collins. Of course, everyone has more than just one interest or hobby outside of school. Collins passion is in the social scene. He said he “lives to party” and has pride in his sense of humor.

However not everything has to be a party, and not everything can be a party. Sometimes simple things can be good too. “I like hanging out with friends. Just chilling,” Collins said. Like many other people, recently Collins has also found a hobby in the land of video games. Collins said he was a “video game lover,” and that it was one of the things he likes to do with his friends in his spare time. Collins didn’t always live here in South Hill. He used to live in Compton before moving here to Washington state. “I grew up in Compton. My house got broken into six times in one week, [so] I moved to South Hill,” Collins said. Due to the bad neighborhood he lived in, Collins decided to move here to South Hill which led to him joining ER’s student body, video productions and eventually Jag TV News. And the rest is history. { Levi Dodd - Reporter } { Illiustration by Amaya Adams }

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Andrea Chartraw volume xii issue iii November 18, 2011

Dedication and grace at its best

n Emerald Ridge student while full time dancer, junior Andrea Chartraw successfully proves herself to be both. Chartraw has been a dancer for almost 12 years. Her dance studio is Evergreen City Ballet in Renton. The main dance Chartraw participates in is ballet, but occasionally she takes hip hop, modern, and tap dancing. She says she is best at ballet, because she is graceful and strong willed - factors that ballet require. In the future, she could see herself going to the Cornish School of the Arts making a career out of music or dance. Currently, Chartraw is rehearsing for the Nutcracker performance, playing the Spanish, Flower, Snow and lead roles in the show. “Practices for the Nutcracker usually begin simple and relaxing,” Chartraw said. “The beginning is basic pleas, tondues, degashays, or frankly all the French words people don’t understand, to ending with jumps going five feet into the air. The longer you’re there, the more harder and intense practice is.” This isn’t the first time Chartraw is performing in this popular holiday show. She was cast for the role as Clara back in 7th grade, and had a rather interesting encounter with it. “I was in the 7th grade, and I was the role of Clara in the Nutcracker,” she said. “I was holding the rat king’s tail, and he came forward too much, and I slipped and fell on my face.” Chartraw spends the majority of her time at her second home: the studio. On Tuesday through Saturday, she dances usually from 4:30 to 9 p.m. When Chartraw has free time, she likes watching popular TV show, The Office and Glee, while her favorite movie is the Hangover. She also loves traveling to Oceanside, Oregon. She claims the most difficult part of dance is finding time to do things, because there is limited time. She manages church, school, dance, and her social life, and usually does homework in the car

or staying up late to complete it. “Outside of school, ER, Andrea spends most of her time for ballet, so organization and time management are her biggest challenges,” Chartraw’s parents, John and Yuko Chartraw, said. “Although we praise her dedication, we don’t want her to miss out all the fun as a high school kid: going to a football game, school dance, or just hanging out with her friends. It is our hope that she learns from ballet not only how to dance but also how to balance her life.” Outside of dance, Chartraw is a big part of Jag Crew and singing at her church - which is a big part of her life. She even attends Youth Alive meetings at ER, where Christian students gather together. Advice Chartraw would give to being a great dancer is to stretch everyday, do ab workouts, and get plenty of sleep to keep up with the energy dance requires. She also recommends keeping up good health, which comes with factors like eating nutritious food. Chartraw is a vegetarian, and enjoys food like caesar salads. But, occasionally, she splurges on the Cherry Garcia Fro You from Ben and Jerry’s. “Ballet is a big commitment not only for Andrea but for the whole family,” John and Yuko said. “We have to drive her to Renton five days a week and spend some weekends at the theatre volunteering for performances. It really is a team effort. But when we see our daughter dancing and shining on stage, we forget about our sacrifices.” There is no doubt that Chartraw loves dance, and it is the base of her life. “I think dance is really expressing feeling through a graceful art form,” Chartraw said. “At school you can have a mask on but in dance you can show your real self.” { Grace Amsden - Reporter }

{ Photo Credit - Chris Clark Photography }

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volume XII issue iI NOVEMBER 18, 2011

hen first entering Bella Peach, the new frozen yogurt shop at the South Hill Mall, I was surprised to see several different dispensers lined up on the wall. After getting a bowl full of cake batter, cable car chocolate and cookies and cream frozen yogurt and covering it with Oreos, chocolate chips and chocolate syrup, my total only came out to about three dollars. Though I am a picky eater, the ice cream I did have was extremely delicious and I regret not trying other more unique flavors. After devouring my treat I had a chance to really enjoy the atmosphere, mainly the light colors painted on the wall and the lighthearted music playing in the background. I definitely enjoyed it and plan on going back soon.

s I walked in, I noticed a strange color combination for the store with light green everywhere. It is self serve frozen yogurt. They have many flavors to choose from such as cake batter, cookies and cream, and simple flavors such as chocolate. There are candy and fruit choices for toppings such as strawberries and chocolate chips. The music was somewhat modern and the store was very bright. The workers there seemed friendly. The place was sort of empty and bland all around and could use more designs. Overall, the frozen yogurt was good and I would go there again due to its unique selections.

ompared to Bella Peach I was a little disappointed with Elements. When I first walked in I thought the décor was creative. Once I walked over to fill up my bowl I was a little bummed to see that they didn’t have as much variety or the flavors I like, besides the fact that they had pumpkin pie. The one thing that was unique about this frozen yogurt shop was the amount and variety of toppings they had, from cereal to kiwi. I also liked the fact that they had cherries to put on top. Overall, I enjoyed Bella Peach more and it is more convenient for me to go there. { Claire Benson - News Editor }

lements had a more colorful and creative look that I liked. They had great flavors such as pumpkin pie, apple pie, and red bull. The atmosphere was great. The toppings were just about endless. The employees all seemed like they enjoyed working there. The color combination of the store seemed much nicer then Bella Peach. The lighting in Elements was much easier on the eyes. Elements was good and I can’t wait to go back. I would recommend this to people over Bella Peach. { Ryan Chavez - Beat Editor }

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or thousands of Harry Potter fans, the last movie is not where “it all ends”. Author J.K. Rowling, in partnership with Sony, has opened an interactive gamelike reading experience and retail store: Pottermore. Pottermore will sell the first Harry Potter books in e-book and audio book forms. Junior Sierra Lanouette, one of the first million people who previewed the website, said that it’s a great way to go deeper into the books. “This is content released by J.K. Rowling herself that she has specifically for this [website]. It’s set up the way she sees the school,” said Lanouette. “You follow the books so it’s closely related, along with a side story of your own going through Hogwarts.”

he long-awaited Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 (MW3) finally hit shelves at 12:01 in the morning on Nov. 8. People flocked to the stores to get their hands on the newest of the Call of Duty games and started playing as soon as they got home. When I put in the game, I was taken back to where the second game left off. I was immediately sent off on a chase to find Makarov, a terrorist who caused a lot of havoc in the second Modern Warfare. MW3 is also equipped with timed missions, called Special Ops, that throw the player into overwhelming situations. One is a replica of a mission in the campaign where the president is in trouble and the player has to save and protect him. As the player beats each mini mission they unlock more and more missions.

{ Virginia Van Keuren - Copy Editor/Ed Board }

{ Sydney Dawn - Opinion Editor }

Laura Veirs

Iron and Wine

They have a nice sound. They have a good beat to their music, and some of it is calming. Something different than I am use to hearing.

Iron and Wine gives me the sense of innocence and purity, little like poetry. Sweet lyrics and relaxing tone make me want to lay back and relax as I stare at clouds floating above. Overall Iron and Wine’s music is just calming.

Laura Veirs has a nice sound. They have a good beat to their music, and some of it is calming. Something different than I am use to hearing. It makes me want to keep listening to their intriguing sound.

Soundgarden The things this group sings about are weird. They sing a lot about alcohol. The instrumentals are okay. The lead voice sounds like screamo, not something particularly my ears would want to listen to. People whose ears enjoy screamo type stuff they should look this band up.

Modest Mouse I really enjoy listening to the instrumentals. The lead singer’s voice is interesting. It’s what I’m use to hearing. When I really tried to listen into what they were saying Ifelt like it was just the same line repeating itself over and over.

Laura Veir

r ning to he When liste feeling r whelming d e v o n a t e Ig an nding truth of understa ealed. I get a slow e rev oming dreams ar embrace c m r a w f o ing tone sensation h her calm she it W . e m r ove rics speaking ly and truth me. speaks to

Soundgarden Soundgarden leads me back to the good old days when I rocked out to rock band and Soundgarden is an old grunge band but it makes me feel like a rock star when I hear them. They have a soft rock feel to them and I have to say you could find this on my iPod.

SOUND OFF

Erica Reynolds

Modest Mouse Modest Mouse can be summed up in three words: rhythmic,energetic and relaxing. I don’t want to say it’s hippie music but it definitely makes me want to sing in circles in a field with a huge smile on my face. There lyrics show optimism and I absolutely love that about them.

Josie Ruiz

Artists and bands found and created here in the rainy state, Washington.

Krista Riccardi

Amaya Adams Iron and Wine Iron and Wine

Laura Veirs I don’t know if I can give an honest opinion on Laura Veirs because her voice was so annoying that I almost tuned out the whole song. But for the part I did hear, the lyrics were relatable, but again I wasn’ t fully listening.

Iron and Wine really is not my cup of tea, although, I wouldn’t mind hearing it every once in a while because the beat is calming and relaxing and the lyrics tie into their titles if given thought.

Modest Mouse

Soundgarden During this song my feet were tapping and my hands couldn’t stay still. Even though they are an older band, their lyrics still have a meaning our generation can relate to if you look behind the written words.

I’ve heard this band before and have had nothing bad to say. Actually I really like their sound and found it to be an uplifting and optimistic song. But the music does take some deep thought to understand.

Laura Veirs Where is a meadow, filled with daisies and frolicking bunnies, to which I could shout from some treetop “I love Laura Veirs!,” whilst wearing a ridiculous hippie skirt? Looks like I found out what I’m doing this weekend.

Soundgarden Grunge, grunge, grungey, grunge, grunge. I actually like this? I like this! I don’t think this will be my go-to band, but the gravely-ness of his voice is something I definitely appreciate.

Smooth... yet bristly? I can’t stop thinking of Sam Bearn’s beard. Anywho, this band has shown the ability to evolve throughout its many albums, while not sounding super processed. I dig it.

Modest Mouse I don’t even need to hear the name to know I’m listening to Modest Mouse. For radio alternative, it’s distinct. For every track from the band sounds like the one before it.

The Beat - Nov/Dec

Giving you the lowdown on the South Sound

Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn Premiere

23 Hypokritz Performance at 7:00

28 Footloose Auditions

5 Poetry Out Loud Auditions

12 Site Council Meeting

29 Footloose Auditions

Girls Basketball vs. PHS at 5:30

13 PRIDE Council meeting

Thanksgiving

No school

December 1st

Footloose Auditions

Boys Basketball vs. PHS at 5:30

SAT Test

Financial Aid Info Night @ Rogers

Wrestling vs. GK at 6:00

Gymnastics vs. Mt.Rainier at 7:00

10 ACT Test

16 Winter Break

17 Winter Break

{ Art by: Dani Kaes }