December 2009

Black&White REA SON HE S TO

ALT CARE HC : ARE FOR R YOU EFO NG R AND M OLD pag e5

the black and white. december 2009. volume 19 issue 5. 5152780449. 6501 NW 62nd ave. johnston. iowa one copy free

ON THE COVER photo illustration by Kallen Kramer photos provided/whitehouse.gov, senate.gov

check us out online www.theblackandwhiteonline.com

NEWS Coffee with Clay

3

A chat with superintendent to get informed

News briefs Fountains turned warm

4

Why are the water fountains hot now?

EDITORIAL Health care

5

Be informed on this crucial debate

6 7

History of I-pod

9

Downloading music

DOUBLE TRUCK

17

Best friends.

10/11

Literally best friends forever

FEATURE

Animal love

13

Hu cares

14

Random spotlight

Explore different groups at JHS

p5

p16

STAFF JM KK LG

EDITORS IN CHIEF Julia Manning

Kallen Kramer layout

Lauren Gehrke managing

Parker & Chapman

Forwards for the girls dominate on the court

18

Fencing club

19

Boys basketball

Unique sport offered at JHS

faces big starts this season

Senior shares life experiences Leah Bowman

Remember it is about the class, not the teacher

Best of 2009.

Des Moines’s hidden treasures

SPORTS

Kelechi

Black & White awards

Local fashion

DUNGEON

learn different ways how

Role models

REVIEW

15

see how this music device has evolved

Clubs

Pets help us in life

8

FASHION

ENTERTAINMENT

12

We need to evaluate who we look to in society

HEALTH

BACKPAGE

16

20

Calcium

Important element has many benefits

i

p14

p12

index

OPINION

p21 p17

New Years Resolutions

Students share their promises for change

p18

p7

SUB-EDITORS

CC PM EO KM KM

Catherine Caracci news

Philip Mortens opinion

Eric Oatts entertainment

Kelly McGowan fashion

Kiera Morrill photo

BW KK MK DL KS

Brennan Winget lifestyle

Kelsey Kruse feature

Matt Knoedel sports

Dwight Lykins online

Kyle Soyer photo

STAFF WRITERS Jon

Houp

Monisha Kumar

Michael Knoedel Alyssa Czapla Chris Caracci

Blake Schlawin

Cathleen Dutcher Ryan Smaha Mike Shi

Dahlia Gordon

Kristine Hayes

Zach Winjum

Lauren Coffey

Kevin Hu

Andy Halterman

Evan Culbert

Alex Grapp

Michael Carlson

Scott Monroe

Spencer Vasey

Ethan Meng

Liz Waller

The Black and White is published solely by the Johnston High School newspaper staff. Its goal is to inform, enlighten and entertain Johnston students. It is an open forum. In accordance with Iowa law and board policy, students assign and edit material. The paper is published nine times per school year.

The paper will avoid material that is libelous, obscene or an invasion of privacy. The law does not require parental permission to use student quotes. Ethically, we believe students can speak for themselves.

Staff editorials represent the opinion of a majority of the editorial board. Editorial and opinion pieces do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the adviser, school officials or the district.

Letters to the editor must be signed. Like all material, letters may not be libelous, obscene or an invasion of privacy. Bring letters to room 413 within one week after publication to be considered for the next issue.

The Black and White strives to report accurate and timely information. If you believe that an error has been printed, please contact the editor at jmanning867@gmail.com.

The Black and White is a member of CSPA, NSPA, Quill & Scroll, and IHSPA. Recent issues of the paper earned these honors: Columbia Scholastic Press Association Gold Medalist, National Scholastic Press Association First Class rating, Quill & Scroll Gallup Award, IHSPA state placings.

news

Dec 09

p3

Superintendent holds an open forum for community members to inform them on school board decisions as well as gain insight on concerns the community may have. words & layout Monisha Kumar An open discussion with Superinten-

was a topic parents felt strongly about.

Chat with Clay, was held at the Johnston

mentioned that her child is really inter-

dent Clay Guthmiller, called Coffee and

Public Library as a way to inform the community about school issues as well as gain

insight on arising issues. During this session, present community members were

with

Clay

NB

Guthmiller also agreed and will be

outcome will be.

One major concern that Guthmiller

meeting, though he is not sure what the The sessions allow for the commu-

presented was population growth for the

nity to be involved directly by informing

accommodate the upcoming elementary

have. He then can present them to the

district and how the district is going to age students.

“This growth could lead us to build our

sixth elementary school on land bought by the district,” Guthmiller said.

Guthmiller on any concerns they may school board. Since it is such an informal atmosphere, one may find it easier to present opinions and discuss them.

He was pleased with the overall out-

A few other issues that community

come of the event. “I believe the Coffee

was held on Thursday, Dec. 3 were bus-

cial; I always enjoy getting out and talk-

members presented at the session that ing, having a string program added to the

music department and the inability for stu-

Students not having room in their

schedules for fitting in classes they need

Johnston’s got acting talent

Faulty desks refurbished

four one act plays. These plays included

plastic desk parts replaced as well as

the Rain and Let Me Listen”, a drama, and

complaints of the old desks cracking.

Recently, the drama department presented

This past month there were 1,000 new

“The Bird Comes to Yellow Sky”, a Western, a missing part that was installed. The plastic parts were replaced because of “Slop Culture”, a comedy, “Talk to Me Like

words & layout Cathleen Dutcher

the periods apart from core classes.

school board.

all of the electives offered to them.

news briefs

band, choir and P.E. take up the rest of

presenting this at the next school board

dents to take advantage of experiencing

Kyle Soyer/BW

ested in taking some art classes, but

offered coffee as Guthmiller discussed

a few issues that have come up for the

Coffee

The mother of a middle school student

and Chat was successful and benefiing with our district patrons,” Guthmiller said. The informal gatherings allow for

people to share their concerns while

providing ideas, suggestions and opinions on a number of issues -all of which will help in future planning.”

Teacher baby boom

There have been six teachers who have had babies this year so far. This week

Sarah Wessling gave birth to a boy and Alicia Rollison gave birth to a girl. Kate

ence got to vote for their favorite play by

Lechtenburg and Sarah Van Waardhuizen The replacements took about two weeks delivered earlier this year. Wessling, Rollito finish. The total number of plastic son, Lechtenburg and Van Waardhuizen are

Iowa High School State Speech Associa-

The chairs were free to the district.

“Moon Boy”, a children’s play. The audi-

ballot. The winning play will be taken to the tion in January. This is the first year where the audience decided which play will go to

competition. “I saw that [voting] was popular and that it might bring an audience, and get

the audience involved,” drama director, Paul Miller, said. The plays were held Dec. 11, 12, and 16.

parts the district received was 3,693.

all on maternity leave. Melissa Johnson and Wendy Arch had their babies the earliest in

the year and are back from maternity leave.

Pictured below: Arch and her son Frankie

news

Dec 09

p4

Warm water breeds controversy WARMEST

words & layout Michael Carlson

water fountain

71.96 FF

In order to save energy, energy super-

visor Dave Beason has decided to unplug

in fitness center

the school’s 32 water fountains. “The compressor has to run to cool the water,” Bea-

COLDEST

son said, “and with that off, that’s money

water fountain

saved.”

53.60 F

Beason got the idea to unplug the water

fountains from Energy Education. According to the Energy Ed Web site, the program

“creates and helps implement customized

outside lunchroom

comprehensive people-driven energy con-

tudes of some of the students. “Everyone

tricts.”

practicing because the water was warm,

servation programs for K-12 school disThe program has seen success in other

school districts. “Energy Ed has unplugged

water fountains off at other schools, and on

in (Innovation) was upset when we were and the room was very warm,” Kayla Flyckt said.

Student Council also was concerned

average they have saved $100 per unit per

about this subject. Adviser Chris Beguhn

The drinking fountains were turned off

didn’t give a clear cut direction of where to

year,” Beason said.

the week of Nov. 8. The water was initially

warm, which caused some controversy

had them vote on the subject. “The vote go,” Beguhn said.

Beason does not believe the water will

over the water fountains. Some students

remain warm for long. “Now that the cold

turned off the water fountains. “Beason

settle into the ground and make the water

believed that the Environmental Club had came in and shared some projects that he

wanted done in the high school. He brought

up (turning off the water fountains), which is how the rumor started,” Dustin Mead, Environmental Club adviser, said.

The warm water also affected the atti-

snap has come back, the frost will hopefully

cool again,” he said. With the water fountains cooling down, so has the controversy

The water fountains will be off for only

the winter. “When things warm up in the spring, we will see how the weather is when we turn them back on,” Beason said.

student council

Kyle Soyer/BW

Junior Michael McFarland fills up his water bottle at the water fountain in the history hallway. The water fountains throughout the school averaged at a temperature of 64.57 degrees Fahrenheit.

updates

recent results.

upcoming events.

in-progress.

Blood Drive

Week of giving

Notes to legislature

121 donors contributing a total of 106 units of blood.

Saved approx. 318 lives!

Feb. 1-5. Daily fund raising/service events hosted by different groups and clubs. If your club is interested in hosting a day see Beguhn asap!

In conjunction with Ames, and other area high schools we’re writing letters to the state legislatures in an effort to diversify the funds that the state control, to put in the schools control.

These funds will be used at a district’s discretion.

Can food drive

Dance marathon

approx. 30 teams participated and collected about 4,500 cans and up to $1,000

Jan. 15 after the basketball game. 9pm-7am. Tickets are $10 which will include food throughout as well as dancing and other activities. Proceeds go to the Oncology Unit at Blank Children’s Hospital

Dodging Diabetes Dec. 20. At the time of print 17 teams were signed up, raising approx. $850 for JDRF.

Archery tournament Along with Mr. Beason, student council will be helping to sponsor an archery tournament for area schools.

editorial

Dec 09

p5

Understand the debate:

HEALTH

CARE REFORM

FACES OF THE DEBATE

The controversy on Capitol Hill will make a big impact at home if passed. As citizens and future insurance customers, we need to be informed.

Flipping through the channels, a high school student is not likely to stop and watch CNN over the new episode of “The Office.” Being informed about current events is not a skill to master simply to pass a government class. The issues on Capitol Hill affect our lives, and without knowledge of these issues, we have no right to complain. Soon it will be our time to take on the nation’s debt and decide what to do with war and future crises.

A new health care reform bill is working its way through the Senate. A bill has already passed in the House 220-215. If the Senate bill passes, both the Senate and the House bills will go to a conference committee that will merge them. This new bill will then go through the House and Senate again, and they could be passed, or possibly amended further, requiring another committee, etc.

The House bill, the Senate bill and President Obama’s original proposal all have unique aspects. It is not critical that we understand the aspects of each previous bill, but that we understand what is being debated in current form and what it could mean for us in the present, and more importantly, the future.

Main provisions being considered A “public option”

President Obama First proposed the reform, claims plan will reduce deficit in the long run.

Senate Majority Leader

Harry Reid

The writer of the senate bill, and an advocate of a public option and a medicare buy-in.

All of the new health care proposals require every American to have health insurance. This could be made possible by a public option offered by a government-run insurance company. A public option is meant to provide an affordable insurance plan offered by the government. Some Senators, both Democrat and Republican, do not support a national plan, but would support a state-run option. This would allow states to create a government-run plan if the private-run companies are not providing health insurance at reasonable rates.

How would a government-run plan operate?

A government-run insurance company would compete with private insurance companies. This is a positive for those who need a more affordable option in order to have health insurance. But this is a negative for the private insurance companies, and many customers of the private insurance companies. A government-run plan could be much cheaper than the insurance offered by private insurers, and those that wish to keep their insurance plan may be taxed for that option.

Are there alternatives to a public option?

While the House bill provides for a public option, it is becoming likely that the Senate bill will provide for a not-for-profit option in place of a public option. This would mean a private organization, overseen by the government, would provide a cheaper insurance option. A medicare expansion from 65 to 55 years old has been discussed, as well as a Medicare buy-in. A buy-in plan for Medicare is essentially a public option.

How much will the plan cost?

Connecticut (I)

Joseph Lieberman

Opposes medicare buy-in and public option, in effect, he is the deciding vote for both options.

Nebraska (D)

Ben Nelson

A swing vote on the Democrat side. Proposed amendment restricting abortion coverage.

$848 billion-$1.03 trillion, varying from the House bill, Senate bill, and President Obama’s original proposal. With the new Senate bill, the cost may be cheaper, but the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) has not provided a new estimate for the revised Senate plan.

How is it being paid for?

Costly insurance plans provided by private insurers (high-premium plans) will be taxed up to 40 percent, income taxes increased, new tax on elective cosmetic surgery, fees on private insurance companies, drug makers, and medical device manufacturers. Individuals with an income of $500,000 and families with a combined income of $1 million would face a 5.4 percent income tax increase. It is estimated that these new taxes would total over $200 billion.

Who’s covered?

President Obama’s original intent was that all Americans would be covered under the new plan, but the House and Senate bills estimate that only 94 to 96 percent of U.S. citizens will be covered.

Does the insurance cover abortion?

Maine (R)

Olympia Snowe A swing vote on the Republican side of the debate. An opponent of the public option.

CBO Director

Douglas Elmendorf

The Congressional Budget Office(CBO) is the scorekeeper of health care reform The CBO creates estimates of the long term costs of each amendment, and the bill in its entirety

Contact our Senators in Washington

The House bill does not, the Senate bill does. The House bill has tight restrictions on tax dollars being used to fund abortions directly and insurance plans that cover abortions. This excludes cases of rape, incest or if the mother’s life is in danger. The Senate’s bill leaves discretion to the Health and Human Services secretary to decide whether abortion would be covered under a government-run plan, however a government-run plan is still up in the air in the Senate.

What is an employer mandate?

Employers with a payroll in excess of $500,000 would be required under the House bill to provide insurance for employees.

What are the Democrats saying?

Democrats want to get it passed before Christmas and on President’s desk before The State of Union in January.

Republicans?

Republicans have been very concerned with the long-tem costs of these bills. They have tried to slow down the process, making Democrats vote on things they may not want to deal with specifically, issues such as abortion restrictions, taxes, Medicare cuts, etc.

Specifically pertaining to young adults

Democrat

Tom Harkin

Republican

Chuck Grassley

photos provided/whitehouse.gov, senate.gov

The bill will most likely allow kids to stay on their parent’s plan until age 26 or 27. However, parents are only required, under penalty, to provide insurance for children under 18. If someone is not covered after from graduating high school, or college, they will be required to buy their own insurance.

Much like car insurance, it will be illegal to be uninsured. Both those that are healthy and unhealthy need to be in the same pool in order for insurance to optimally work. For those that need their own health insurance; plans may be more expensive after reform. Refusal to comply with the new requirements (becoming insured) could result in a fine of up to 2.5 percent of an individual’s income.

A very positive aspect of the new reform bills is the portability or insurance plans. With the way insurance works now, this case is completely possible: A family suffers the loss of a job, the company that the parent worked for provided health insurance for the family. Now the family is uninsured and has to buy a new plan. The father has a previous health condition, and the new insurance company will sell them a plan, but will write out his pre-existing condition. The new bills will not allow companies to discriminate based upon pre-existing conditions. Also, plans will be entirely portable from company to company, leaving no gap in insurance.

opinion

Dec 09

p6

role models.

Looking towards better examples to shape society

words & layout Julia Manning Tina Fey. Who doesn’t think she is

hilarious? With her infamous SNL skits and critically acclaimed T.V. show, she

shows us that one can use her humor, wits and vibrant personality to achieve

success. And what about those glasses? Even if wearing them is an accessory to enhance her humorous image,

she has started a trend, along with making four eyes more comfortable in their own skin.

More high school girls should be

like her. When Fey is telling a joke

or being interviewed, through her humor and personality, she exuberates

beauty. By being herself, without even

really trying, she is beautiful. Without the layers of makeup.

“Fear less, live more,” these are the

words athlete Sarah Reinersten lives

by. She is the first female above-knee

amputee to complete all 2.4 miles of swimming, 112 miles of biking, and

26.2 miles of running of the Ironman.

The semi-pro tri-athlete has not only

relished in her personal accomplishments, but used her triumphs to inspire others. She is the spokesperson

for the Challenged Athletes Founda-

tion, as well as a motivational speaker

University and Harvard Law, she em-

published a book, “In a Single Bound.”

ligence and use it in a positive way.

ible accomplishment in itself; doing

must have labeled Obama a “nerd,” but

Reinersten’s determination and perse-

was criticized for wearing a sleeveless

She is also comfortable enough

never show their arms, she must not

around the country, and has recently

powers women to embrace their intel-

Finishing the Ironman is an incred-

At some point in her life, someone

it with a prosthetic leg is unheard of.

she must not have listened. When she

verance makes her beautiful.

shirt, because, uh, First Ladies should

with her body to pose nude (with her

have listened.

“ESPN” magazine’s “The Body Issue.”

I wish I had as a sophomore. I got a

posing for a school picture.

socializing than studying. The vibe I

voice, singer/songwriter Colbie Caillat

studying came second, I wish I would

maintenance, comfortable in her own

face and remind me it came first. Being

tention to her lyrics and the quality of

in high school it can be looked down

What would happen if girls were to

Being smart and not hiding it paid

prosthetic leg) on the front cover of

Perhaps we should follow suit.

Most girls have a hard enough time

little distracted, and spent more time

With her glowing skin and calm

was getting from the “cool” seniors was

is a natural beauty. Projecting a low

have had someone to punch me in the

skin look, she seems to pay more at-

smart, in the long run, is admired, but

her music than hairstyle.

upon. Unless you are Alan Nagel.

forgo the precious time spent “primp-

off for her. Her confidence makes her

ing” and instead spent their time trying to develop their talents?

beautiful.

Be yourself. Sounds cheesy I know.

Not only does First Lady Michelle

But we all have our different talents

husband, she is an example of strength

be them. Seriously, the dumb blonde

Obama have a, uh, kind of, powerful

and things that make us beautiful, so

herself. With degrees from Princeton

act is so out.

reinersten photo /provided by solveig fuentes. fey photo/ provided by NBC. obama picture/wikipedia. caillat photo/ provided colbie caillat.com

opinion

Dec 09

Puppy love.

p7

After graduation, leaving pets behind will be a difficult task words & layout Philip Mortens Thanks to the miracle of time travel, I would like all of

any signs of stopping. Along with this she has a burning

roughly six months into the future. Where we are headed is

forehead and she is as content as can be. Part of her at-

on with my life in good ‘ole Johnston and spread my wings

feels that the best way to make an impression on someone

My first stop on this journey is a place that will hopefully

blanket stuffed into her mouth, all the while having some

you to come and take a short jaunt with me to somewhere

ambition for attention, but it only takes one finger on her

a very important day in my life, it is the day that I will move

tention craze also roles over to meeting new people. She

and fly away to bigger and better things.

is to run to them sporting either a stuffed cow or a tattered

give me the skills I need to succeed and the place known

sort of minor seizure of happiness due to an over-amount

Before I can be cleared for takeoff, I must take the time

When all her wonderful little traits come together, they

as college.

of excitement.

to say good-bye to all those who mean something to me;

make a perfectly lovable but occasionally annoying dog.

I know I am going to miss everyone on this list; it is inevi-

not be able to experience these quirks; I will have to leave

But now the true test of my will comes into play, it is time for

a combined fury that is roughly equal to the impact of a

You need to understand, I love this dog to death. She,

When I say flow, I mean flow, something along the lines of

my parents, friends, and most importantly, my lovely pets.

And once the time comes for me to leave for Luther, I will

table. So I have said goodbye to my parents, no big deal.

her behind. As all of these tragic realizations hit me with

me to say goodbye to Nora, my Vizsla.

small nuclear device, the tears begin to flow down my face.

like most pets, adores her master; her only goal in life is to

a mini version of Niagara Falls gushing from my eyes.

day at school and I really do not feel the greatest, what do

person can have, they bring individuals peace and joy.

is ready to let her heart stop just to get me to give her some

son to get up in the morning is to see the funky dog smile

she welcomes me once again by settling down and sleep-

will always be glad to see you, and be more than happy

things can be viewed as quite normal dog activities, but

think about this. If I lock both you and my dog in the trunk

Nora possess many unusual traits for a dog. For some

to guarantee that only one of you two will be happy to see

please, well, me. When I come home from an unfortunate

You see, pets are one of the most important things a

I find? The most excited dog on the face of the planet who

They are special to many people, for some, the only rea-

attention. When I get into bed to get ready to go to sleep,

on their very own Nora. No matter what happens, your pet

ing by my side for the rest of the evening. Both of these

to cheer you up. If these are not enough reasons for you,

with Nora, that is where normal seems to stop.

of a car, wait a day, then set you free. I am almost willing

reason she got it in her head that the best way to get let

me. I can say without hesitation and almost 100 percent

inside the house was for her to lick the glass door with out

HU words Kevin Hu

Provided / Vorland Photography

For the love of classes We secretly love signing up for classes.

cares

?

certainty, that its not going to be you.

We love dolling out our opinions to our peers.

“Oh yeah, that class is really boring.”

“English with WHO? I heard she’s an

“C” lunch. Thanks Mr. Brooks.

But seriously, if you’re going to not take

a class because a teacher gives out tardies, you’re being childish.

Recently, AP English teacher Ms.

insane teacher! Drop that class before she

Wessling was announced teacher of the

year and therefore cannot teach AP English next semester. Mr. Schillerstrom will be a long term substitute.

Now, I have never taken a class with

Schillerstrom at the helm, but many stu-

eats your soul!”

dents currently taking AP English are de-

Of course, our recommendations are

ciding to drop second semester.

usually based off ludicrous reasons. We

Last time I checked, I signed up for AP

love the teachers that bring us treats and

English to learn. Kind of. Regardless of my

pop quizzes.

pride in the fact that I will come out of that

pop us popcorn. We hate those that give

intentions of being in that class, I still take

Personally, I enjoy the teachers that let

class with helpful knowledge and the expe-

us off early for lunch, even if it’s the lowly

rience. Who cares who’s teaching it?

Illustration/Yiming Qin

review

Dec 09

p8

The B&W Awards

Best of ‘09. Our entire staff voted, and the following emerged as the “best of’s” for this year in entertainment. Basically, if we had our own televised award show, these would be the winners.

words & layout Eric Oatts words Dahlia Gordon

Best Show-The Office Best Random Celebrity-Octomom

Best Album “Big Whiskey and The GrooGrux King”- Dave Matthews Band

Best Disease-H1N1

Provided/MTV

Best Game-Call of

Duty: Modern Warfare 2.-

Best Movie- “He’s Just

As probably one of the most

Not That Into You”- How

could this not be the #1 movIt includes Jennifer Aniston,

school just to wait in line at

out with a young woman

GameStop to buy it? Well,

desperate to find her “prince

we know quite a few.

charming” until she meets a

It is a classic first-person

that she has it all wrong when

Best Song- “You Be-

also five other couples strug-

If you don’t know this song,

it comes to men. There are gling with problems in their love lives. This chick flick

features romance, heartbreak and comedy.

Holiday Shopping?

Buy “He’s Just Not That into You” Location: amazon.com Cost: $10.99

made #1 on our list! There’s

do you know who skipped

Ben Affleck. The movie starts

bartender who teaches her

we did not have a hard

game. How many people

Long, Drew Barrymore and

long With Me”-Taylor Swift then you either live under a rock, or you’re lying. Even

though Beyonce’s video was better, Swift’s song still wins her our award.

Holiday Shopping?

Buy “Fearless” Location: FYE Cost: $14.99

Although this pop sensa-

tion is ineligible for the Gram-

time tagging MW2 as best

Scarlett Johansson, Justin

Lady Gaga-

anticipated games for Xbox 360 ever to be released,

ie with such a stacked cast?

Best “New” Artist-

my’s Best New Artist, she

much more than just great

music from Lady Gaga. With her unique sense of fashion and unpredictable perfor-

mances, it’s hard for anyone to ignore her.

Her hits include: “Just

shooter game that puts

Dance,” “Poker Face,”

setting.” Most people play

and “Bad Romance,” along

the player in a real “soldier online, alongside thousands

of other gamers, but there is

a standard “campaign mode” that includes what some

would call an epic story line.

Holiday Shopping?

Buy “Call of Duty: Modern Warfare” Location: Gamestop Cost: $59.99

“LoveGame,” “Paparazzi,”

with albums “The Fame” and “The Fame Monster.” She has also written songs for

artists like Britney Spears,

The Pussycat Dolls and Flo Rida.

Holiday Shopping?

Buy “The Fame Monster” Location: FYE Cost:$14.99

entertainment

Dec 09

History of the iPod

In

p9

2001, Apple released the the first iPod, introducing the world to tech-

nology that allowed users to keep all their music in a pocket. Since then, Apple has transformed the bulky 5 gigabyte (GB), iPod we once knew, capable of holding up to 1,000 songs, into an entire franchise of unique

iPods. The iPod, owned by millions around the world is now the ultimate

words & layout Evan Culbert

entertainment device, packed with an endless amount of features.

Touch 2007-2009

Shuffle 2005-2009

The iPod touch, or iPhone without the phone feature, is Apple’s most advanced

The only branch of iPods with no screen, shuffles

iPod on the market. The touch remains

add a bit of random to listener’s music. Initially

the only iPod to offer wireless internet,

released in 2005, the 1G (generation) shuffle was

downloadable apps, and a full touch

the smallest of the iPods, and offered a cheaper

screen, hence the name “touch.” The 3G

price tag, at $99. Two more shuffles have since

now offers 64GB of space, with a 50 per-

Nano 2005-2009

been released, offering more songs and even

provided by Matthieu Riegler

cent increase in faster performance.

smaller sizes for $79.

provided by Apple

Classic 2001-2009 Today, the 1G iPod is commonly referred to as an

From the 1G to the 5G, the nano’s ca-

antique. The original iPod was over twice as thick as

pacity has been multiplied four times,

the current 6G classic, with only 5.5% of the storage

from four to 16GB. The 3G nano ditched

capacity. The progression of the classic over the last

the classic nano shape and is able to

nine years has included many important milestones,

play music. The nano, possibly Apple’s

such as the ability to play video, released with the

most popular iPod, gives buyers enough

5G, or the ability to store photos, and display color,

space for entertainment for a much cheaper price than a touch or classic.

provided /Apple

provided/ Jared Benedict

with the 4G. The initial price for a 10GB iPod was

provided/Apple

$499 dollars, which now sits at $249 for a 160GB.

09

20

08

07

20

20

05

04

06 20

20

20

03

20

02

20

01

20

Discover and download Not only has the iPod evolved, but the way we get music has changed as well. From vinyls, cassette tapes and 8-tracks, to CDs, LimeWire and iTunes, the way we get our music has grown dramatically.

what to play. Mp3 blogs solve that problem. Mp3 blogs usu-

words & layout Mike Shi

LimeWire

is a peer-to-peer (P2P) file sharing client

commonly used to download music. P2P file sharing is

nothing new. Since 1999 and the initial release of Napster, P2P file sharing has become the way to get free music. It’s

easy to see why LimeWire is so popular, with a large catalogue of songs, torrent support, and fast and free downloads.

LimeWire, and P2P file sharing in general, has inher-

ent risks however. From viruses to adware and spyware, it

can be a dangerous place, when you think you’re getting the latest single by your favorite artist, you instead could be downloading a deadly Trojan. In one study, it was found that around 30 percent of all songs on LimeWire contained

malware. Users also run the risk of lawsuits. With potentially devastating results, there are better alternatives for downloading music, some methods even for free.

Though Web sites like Grooveshark may let you play any

song that you like, they are hardly useful if you do not know ally post 1 or 2 songs a day, mostly songs by independent

With over 10 million songs in their catalogue, iTunes

artists from a variety of genres, along with a brief para-

graph review. The songs are available for streaming and

is the king of online music stores. From the flavor of the

download, both for free directly from the blog and also off

could want. With DRM free 256kbit/s songs, iTunes quality

vided by independent music labels themselves in order to

ever, there is more than just the ordinary $1.29 single, with

first place to find and download a great new artist or song

can discover and download the next best artist on iTunes

Said the Gramophone.

The majority of artists featured on the podcasts are inde-

studio album, “In Rainbows”, however, instead releasing it

week to obscure world music, iTunes has anything you

of third-party sites. Many of the songs on the blogs are pro-

surpasses that of LimeWire and other P2P services. How-

bring publicity to fledgling bands. Blogs are frequently the

a wide selection of podcasts and singles of the week, you

you’ve never heard before. Blogs to visit: Fluxblog and

without paying a dime. There is a podcast for everything.

On October 10, 2007, Radiohead released their seventh

pendent, this does not diminish their quality however; many of the artists are far better than what you normally hear on the radio. With a single click of the subscription button, you

can get access to hundreds of brand new songs and artists

all for free. Podcasts to listen to: NPR: All Songs Considered, IndieFeed and KEXP Song of the Day.

on iTunes or as a hard copy, Radiohead self-released the

album online on a pay what you want basis, you could pay whatever you wanted, even nothing. Other artists have also

released their own works for free downloading or streaming, such as Girl Talk, who has two albums out currently: “Feed the Animals” and “Night Ripper.”

Fluxblog logo provided by Ryan Catbird Night Ripper album art provided by Jessica Linker

double-truck

Dec 09

friends

best

‘11

‘12 JM

Epic injuries...

Down at the softball diamonds by themselves and Ellie was pitching and Kerigan hit a line drive into her eye, with a metal bat…fractured 5 bones…

KT

I can not believe I just did that the sound was like pop, she just covered her face and we were both bawling and insanely screaming. Her nose started bleeding and it was swelling by the minute, her parents came down and we rushed to the emergency room and she threw up 10 times.

JM

First impression?

KT

We were in the same class in fourth grade at Beaver Creek and we both rode bus #2. For some reason we were intimidated by each other.

EM

One day I just asked her to sit by me on the bus and then we had our first play date. Kerigan came to my house (she got lost and came to the wrong one first) ha I remember I tried to straighten her hair but it ended up looking crimped.

&

Andy

JM

Favorite memories?

KL

We had like this median in our street and we would pretend it was an island and that our bikes were horses.

KL

There was this meadow behind my house and we thought a witch owned it. We would go out there with just normal scissors and cut down the bushes to try and make a fort. It was like our place; we thought nobody could see us and we could cuss and do whatever we wanted to.

r

foreve

Not many of us could say we have kept close with those we were close with in elementary school. These friends have managed to do what is almost impossible during all of the transitional points from elementary school to high school.

&

Kerigan Ellie

Katie s friend

GUESS WHO?

p12/13

JM

How did you meet?

AJ

In like fourth grade we made a fort underneath my stairs called the AK lounge. We would wrote on the stairs all of our family members and friends names and then we tried to make it look like a rainforest. Ha we never actually played in it we were just always adding new things to it.

JM KL

(Growing up) we were legitimately inseparable. I’ve known him longer than I have my little brother. I feel like our lives would be completely altered if the other wasn’t in it, I wouldn’t know my life it he wasn’t in it.

AJ

Samsies.

JM

KL

I don’t think we ever became friends, I don’t remember meeting him, he’s just always been there

AJ

We have just always been neighbors, even when her family moved to a new neighborhood, mine eventually followed. Plus both of our sets of siblings are best friends too.

Early friendship?

Fights? Rough Patch?

KL

Andy got really mad when I moved. We got new friends but it all got better when he moved and we were neighbors again and we started hanging out more. We have always been friends just from 5-7 grade we didn’t hang out that much.

AJ

In elementary, if the other one got another friend we would make fun of that friend and call them names and make honking noises at them because we were scared they would replace us.

compiled by julia manning & kallen kramer

clubs feature

Dec 09

p12

At JHS it is easy to get lost in the crowd, and sometimes finding a group with a common interest is a challenge. Luckily, with such a large student body, we have many opportunities to focus on our own interests. Meet new people that share those interests by joining a club!

words & layout Michael Knoedel, Kelly McGowan & Kallen Kramer

TSA It’s 3:00 and people start to shuf-

there is really a contest for everyone,” Eagles said.

the school, and gather around a large, steel

up a paper, won’t be behind for the technology re-

upcoming CO2 car in-shop construction day as

advanced stuff we do is using computers to print

fle into room 303 in the dark, back hallway of shop table. They discuss a much-anticipated

they share Oreos and grape Kool-aid. By 3:12,

juniors Melinda Busch, TSA president, and Vikilee Thomas, vice president explain the meeting

People who can handle researching and typing

quirements of the club. “The most technologically

stuff or pressing the buzzer at the tech bowl,” Busch said. “It’s shop based, we use woodworking a lot.”

Students compete in events at the chapter level.

outline.

A first, second, or third place in one of these events

ing, design, and problem solving an arena to

party. You get to meet people from other school. It’s

“The club gives students interested in draft-

compete,” said sponsor Mitch Eagles. Technol-

ogy Student Association has 24 active members and meets for 30-90 minutes on Tuesdays. Not much technology knowledge is needed to join.

“If you like politics, bridges, fashion design,

Spanish Club

qualifies a person for state. “State TSA is like a big like super fun mass chaos,” Busch said.

TSA teaches valuable leadership qualities, and

TSA members participate in a fall leadership retreat every year. “It is really great, and the middle schoolers come bers’ friends usually end up joining too. The group to high school as leaders, club president, Melinda Busch really draws people together,” Busch said. said. students meet a new group of people. “Club mem-

Math Club

SADD

SADD, or students against destructive

Math club is not just a group of people

who do math together for fun. The math

decisions, is a group trying to “support each

and individually. “Even though we are an

be the causes of destructive decisions,” se-

seriously as if it were an athletic team,” club

The club is sponsored by business

club competes in competitions as a team

other and make others aware of what can

academic team, everyone takes it just as

nior Libby Elmitt said.

sponsor Julie Probst said.

teacher Kayla Bousum who was asked to

Parts of a math contest:

hired. SADD is trying to reach out to the

lead a prevention group before she was

The Sprint Round: 30 questions done individually in 60 minutes Spanish club focuses not on the Spanish

language, but rather on the culture of the language. “It doesn’t matter if you are fluent in Spanish or if the only word you know is

hola,” club advisor Angela Koob said. “Ev-

eryone is welcome in Spanish club.” The club does a wide range of activities at their meetings spanning from cooking Spanish cuisine, to watching Spanish movies, and

even to practicing salsa dancing. About once a month, the club goes on a field trip.

Their last trip was to the Dia de los muertos

at the Des Moines Art Center to celebrate the Day of the Dead.

The Target round: 8 questions split into 4 rounds, 10 minutes per round.

The team round: Team gets a packet of 10 multipart questions, done one at a in 60 minutes.

The relay round: Done with three people, The first person answers a question then hands the answer off to the second person who uses it in their problem. This process is repeated with the third person for thirty minutes.

school and let students know that not everybody drinks or smokes.

“I think just to have that support group

is great,” Bousum said. “Peer pressure is Math club members go over results with adviser Julie Probst after their competition Dec. 5.

hard, you think everyone is doing that stuff, its hard not to.

But the club is not judgemental of peo-

ple. “So you made a mistake, so what?”

“Even though we are an academic team, everyone takes it just as seriously as if it were an athletic team,”

-Julie Probst.

Bousum said. The club is there for people

to come and talk about how to prevent future mistakes. “It is sort of like AA, except this is for people who don’t want to end up there.”

SADD is a small club, with 4 to 6 regular

members, welcoming to all members. “After all, nobody is perfect,” Elmitt said.

Photos provided by Melinda Busch, Angela Koob, and Catherine Caracci

feature

Dec 09

p13

take a look into the life of

Kelechi Ubochi One challenge he has had to overcome is gaining

enough confidence to share that he is gay with his family and friends. “Obviously, I’m attracted to guys, not girls,” uncomfortable, more of a weird adrenaline rush. If I’m go-

Ubochi said. “I knew when I was nine.” There was no defin-

them.”

That’s when I came out to my parents.”

“I am a very outgoing person. I don’t really care what other

eventually they realized I was their child, not just a homo-

Freshmen year, Ubochi joined the cheer squad as

His friends were not as shocked. “All my friends knew,”

ing to be someone else, I’m going to be the best at being

Being himself is something that comes easy for Ubochi.

words Kelsey Kruse layout Kallen Kramer Kids moving simultaneously, music blaring through

speakers, hearts pounding, as senior Kelechi Ubochi watches his work in action. “I broke down, they were doing (the dance moves) perfectly.”

The first time Ubochi taught choreography was while

volunteering at the YMCA, teaching kids the “thriller dance.”

“My aunt is an interior designer, but before that she was a choreographer,” Ubochi said. At age ten, Ubochi learned

how to lead choreography from his aunt, a skill that has helped him to choreograph musicals.

“I have seen many theatre shows and productions,”

Ubochi said. “I think a lot of my inspiration comes from what I’ve experienced.” Ubochi is currently the choreographer for the school’s musical.

“I moved to Johnston over the summer from the

Roosevelt District for educational purposes.” Ubochi said.

He likes the school system and the social network here, which he has immerged himself into.

Ubochi is secretary of GSA, and a member of the diver-

sity club, environmental club, and drama club. “I’ve always

been a naturally dramatic person,” Ubochi said. “When I have to transform into someone else (on stage), it’s not

ing moment, he just knew. “I kept hiding it until I was 14.

“They threw a chair,” Ubochi said with a laugh. “But

people think. It’s not important.”

sexual human being.”

Roosevelt’s only male. “I got the ‘Oh my god! He’s a cheer-

Ubochi said. “They were just waiting for me to say it.”

was very ridiculous. I just rolled my eyes. It didn’t bother

looks.” He just chooses to ignore them, which can be at-

leader, he’s a weirdo,’ reaction,” Ubochi said. “The taunting me.” Cheering is something Ubochi loves, and excels at.

Another passion of Ubochi’s is volunteering. “I assist the

older generation,” Ubochi said. Over the summer, Ubochi

However, Ubochi said, “It’s not like you don’t get weird

tributed to his overall optimistic attitude. “You can’t bring me down.”

As Ubochi walks through the halls, he is usually smiling.

volunteered at Calvin Community, a retirement center. The

He said a lot of his optimistic, outgoing attitude comes from

works during the week, and continues to volunteer on the

has not always felt that way. “I used to be a negative per-

Ubochi said. It was a new experience for not only the el-

became complete chaos.

staff liked his attitude, so they offered him a job. Ubochi

experience, just knowing he has a life to live. However, he

weekends. “Just the other week we made doll houses,”

son,” Ubochi said. It started freshmen year, when his life

derly, but him as well.

“I started working, I had a boyfriend, I joined every club,

Ubochi arrives home each night to his own space. “Who,

and I had a lot of friends always wanting to hang out,” Ubo-

laugh. “My dad moved out when he was 16, and he did

dropped every club, and didn’t cheer for a month.” He felt

at age 17, has their own apartment?” Ubochi said with a

chi said. “I just broke down. I broke up with my boyfriend,

fine, so he knew I would.” Ubochi’s parents support his de-

depressed, without any desire to do anything.

cision to be on as own. They even support him financially.

“You have your own space, you can be yourself,” Ubochi

said. He likes having responsibility, and although he does

The turning point was a visit from his Uncle Obie. “He

dropped everything and came to America (from Nigeria)

just to talk to me,” Ubochi said. That visit made Ubochi re-

not pay the bills, he knows not to use so much electricity.

alize people do care.

pendence, and learning how to function on your own.”

Ubochi said. “My glass is completely full.”

“I think an advantage of having your own place is the inde-

“I am a risk-taker now. I keep everything to the upside,”

feature

Leah Bowman

Dec 09

p14

[

words Lauren Gehrke layout Kallen Kramer

]

Get to know

With over 1,300+ students attending the school, it’s impossible to know everybody. Each month the B&W will randomly select a student from a class list we have and use a calculator to generate a random number, coinciding with a student. This month’s student was junior Leah Bowman; get to know her!

Standing on the race track,

watching cars whizz by, a nine-yearold Leah Bowman takes a step back

as her dad pulls into the pit. Bowman grabs her bottle of Windex and starts

spraying the windows. It is one of the

tasks she performs as a part of the pit crew for her dad’s race team.

Her interest in cars came from

being with her dad and grandpa

when she was little; both were race

car drivers. Her dad would take her to his races and let her help as much as she could.

“(Right now) I’m restoring a 1960

Morris Mini,” Bowman said. “It was

my dad’s when he was 14. I wanted

a project to do, and I wanted to learn about cars.”

Restoring her Mini gave her a con-

nect ion with her dad and grandpa.

She is also helping her dad restore his Porsche, which he drove at 16.

As much as Bowman would love

to drive her car, it probably will never

be safe enough to drive on the road.

It currently has no seat belts or air bags.

“I think I might drive it in parades

or take it to car shows,” Bowman Lauren Gehrke/BW

said. The connection with racing is a

horn, or singing. Jazz band is what

into something she is interested in

also loves marching band. Playing

big one for Bowman and has turned pursuing.

“I have a lot of interest in racing

one day,” Bowman said. “My dad and

drew Bowman into band, but she her bass in jazz band makes it all worth it.

“It (music) gives me a chance to

I love to go to indoor go-kart tracks.

express myself and have fun doing

card and get us the professional

is more personal because you can

He can flash his SCCA membership karts. He’ll never admit it, but I have

time sheets that definitively prove I can beat him in lap times.”

Bowman feels that she did not

start her racing career young enough

what I love,” Bowman said. “Singing

use your voice, but I have always loved performing.” Making the All State choir was one of Bowman’s proudest moments.

“It really hit me the first time we

and almost regrets it.

sang together,” Bowman said. “I

in that prime time you should start

anything I’ve ever done.’”

“I never really wanted to race

learning; I chose horses as my ex-

thought, ‘Wow, this is different than Bowman is interested in pursuing

pensive hobby instead,” Bowman

forensic anthropology.

we don’t have the money or time to

all of Kathy Reich’s novels in her se-

want to autocross, but in all comes

forensic anthropologist and an FBI

said. “Now, it’s almost too late since start up racing again with me. I really

down to time and money, since I’d need a better car than my awkward and bulky Taurus.”

Most people know Bowman from

band or choir. Music is a huge part of her life, whether it is playing her

electric bass, mellophone or french

“When I was about eight I read

ries about a crime-solving team of a

agent,” Bowman said. “I started devouring more and more crime novels

and even asked for Forensic Anthropology textbooks.”

Bowman is looking everywhere

from Iowa State to Brown to Northwestern.

Dec 09

made in Des Moines

fashion

words Ethan Meng & Chris Caracci layout Kelly McGowan

p15

$45.00

$55.

00

Rushing through the halls surrounded by American Eagle tops, Abercrombie sweats, and Hollister

jeans, junior Owen Ballard separates himself from the crowd. He wears a locally printed Raygun shirt that reads “Des Moines! The greatest city in the world.” Mike Draper, owner of Raygun, believes locallyowned businesses offer a personal touch conglomerates do not.

Buying local offers many benefits to the consumer. Original designs at a similar, or even lower, price

gives customers “something one of a kind that sets them apart and shows that they value fashion as art and also support the independent design movement,” Julie Punelli, designer of the Magpie line at Vitae, said. “It’s very empowering for everyone.”

Punelli also believes buying locally helps the economy. “For our economy to recover fully, we need

$25.00

to re-awaken the entrepreneurial spirit in America and do business with real people with real skills that know how to be resourceful,” she said.

400 EAST LOCUST DES MOINES

$18.00

Mike Draper started selling T-shirts during his senior year of college. In 2005 he opened the clothing store Smash. “I didn’t just walk out of a cornfield and start it,” he said. The store name changed to Raygun after a copyright complaint from California store named SMASH. All apparel in Raygun is printed in house. “Everything is unique.

There’s no other place to buy it from,” Draper said.

“Our most popular items are all the Iowa stuff like the T-shirts that say, ‘Des Moines: Hell yes!’”

Etsy.com is a Web site that allows customers to search for items and narrow down their searches to the local area. “Etsy is an amazing Web site for crafters looking to sell merchandise or buy supplies for crafting,” Emily Dawson, creator of

} }

$11.99

use and great for someone like me who loves making things and now can reach a very large customer base to sell to. It is also a great place to shop

1731 Grand Avenue Des Moines

You can spend hours shopping and never know what treasures you will find!”

Vitae Design Collective offers many assortments of vintage attire between its four unique clothing lines. These clothing lines are created from personal inspiration and a mixture of historical pieces reconstructed with a modern edge. Vitae provides the public with affordable original designs that will not cost a fortune for good looking vintage clothing.

}

$11.99

rings made by Monsonb shop on etsy

the profile PatriciaPearl on etsy.com, said. “The Web site is really easy to

for beautiful jewelry, art, and vintage items that are sometimes one of a kind.

$11.99

health

Dec 09

Calcium

p16 Holiday season getting on your nerves? Too many treat trays

slowing you down? Measure your daily dose of calcium intake and avoid cranky feelings and overeating. Calcium supports healthy bones, as well a healthy weight, and it can improve your

mood. Meeting your daily dose of calcium suppresses unwanted hormones, which are released when your body is deprived of

calcium. By managing hormones’ release you can avoid elevated emotions and stay positive during your holiday parties. Guarantee a sufficient dose of calcium by consuming plenty of protein like low-fat yogurt and skim milk, or get calcium in a variety of fruits, veggies, and whole grains.

words Kiera Morrill layout Julia Manning Cabbage 363 mg for 1 raw head

Skim Milk 301 mg

Onion 25 mg per 110g

Bell pepper 6.6 mg

Banana 8 mg

Spinach 291 mg

Mushroom 2 mg per 100 mg Broccoli 33 mg

Pineapple 36 mg for 1 cup

Apple 8 mg

dungeon

Dec 09

p17

DOUBLE Q+A

DOMINANCE words Blake Schlawin layout Julia Manning

Any funny stories together?

PARKER “Well, everyone always smiles when I wear my grey sweatshirt with “Parker” on it, because the letters are sewn on. Another thing is that Rachel and I never go by our first names on the court. I’m Parker, and she’s Chappy.”

RACHEL CHAPMAN Senior 6’ 1”

EMILY PARKER Junior 6’ 2”

What are your expectations for the team?

PARKER “I think our basic team goal just working to win as many games as possible. It doesn’t have to be pretty, or by a lot. But I think we expect that if we work hard in the games we’ll always have a chance.”

Do you two work well together?

PARKER “Chap and I work really well together on the court because we always talk to each other. That helps us work well together on defense, like during screens. On offense the communication helps us both get in place for the plays we’re running. We also work to try to get high-low passes between us.”

CHAPMAN “Because we’re the same height we guard each other during practice.

Guarding her helps us prepare better for the game. During practice we try to trip each other and cover each others eyes. We relax each other.

We get along we. She’s out to get really good, I’m just out to have fun.

We balance each other out.”

Lauren Gehrke/BW

sports

Dec 09

p18

A“bout” fencing club words Matt Knoedel layout Julia Manning

Matt Knoedel/BW

A bout between two members of the Des Moines fencing club.

Johnston’s club meets on Wednesday in the old weight room.

“Click, Clank” his épée is deflected

Forrester, to the school and the fencing

up,” Forrester said. “People don’t keep it up

a lunge, and within a half a second, his

advise the club at Johnston. It has been the

and your arms.”

Bailey loses the round. Fencing is an extra-

inspired her to stay.

because it requires re-working certain

the members, is more than a passion; it’s

students have been fantastic,” Forrester

strategy. “The hardest part is figuring out

experience, but not many other students

The club meets in the old weight room on

as sophomore Jordan Bailey goes in for opponent strikes back with a counter and

curricular activity at the school that, for an art. Its members thoroughly enjoy the know about the club.

Although the club isn’t well known,

it is actually in its fourth year and is well established.

Four

years

ago,

Sarah

Timmons, a Johnston graduate, was a

club was born. Forrester was happy to students’ effort and will to fence that has

“Fencing is a great sport and all the

said.

Wednesdays after school. Those interested

in joining should see Forrester to pick up a waiver and pay the $30 entrance fee.

As for what goes on at the club, they

work on a wide range of techniques such

member of the Des Moines fencing club

as how to hold the épée, footwork drills,

be enough interest at our school to start

because you have to learn a different way

downtown and thought that there would

a club. She brought her instructor, Karen

An inside look to what would be in a fencer’s bag

and strategy. Learning fencing is unique

to move. “Fencing is very difficult to pick

Épée The weapon used in fencing that has a bowl-shaped protector and no cutting edge (used for thrusting).

long enough to learn how to move your feet

Fencing can be very difficult to master

muscles as well as concentration and the best way of countering,” Bailey said.

The club warms up with a variety of

games ranging from ninja ball to proletariat ball. Proletariat ball starts with two people who are “it” and try to tag you with a ball, but

they can’t move and have to pass to each

other. Other exercises include footwork drills, and épée thrusts. The last 15 minutes

are when the members fence each other

in tournament-style bouts using the full equipment. A bout consists of several

Glove A large glove that extends about half the forearm of the hand holding the epee.

Jacket Padded in the chest area with a high collar; covers the entire torso.

rounds where score is kept; first person to land a hit gets a point and then the round re-sets until a certain score is reached.

For those willing to learn the art of

fencing, there are tournaments that the

members can compete in to put their skills to the test. The tournaments are held in

the Des Moines metro and at Iowa State’s

fencing facilities for fencers of all ages and

skill levels. The members of fencing club

are invited to join and compete in these tournaments.

Although tournaments are a great way

to show improvement, the fencing club is

also about meeting new people and having

fun. The fencing club is always looking for new members. “I definitely recommend it to others,” Bailey said.

Helmet A wire-frame mask that protects the face and neck; is required to withstand 25 pounds of force.

sports

Dec 09

p19

1. KODY INGLE

south east polk

22.5 PPG, 5.3 RPG

2.

3.

CREON REED

des moines north

21.5 PPG, 7.0 RPG

CHANSE CREEKMUR

marshalltown

18.1 PPG, 6.5 RPG

4. HARRISON BARNES

ames

19.7 PPG, 8.8 RPG

Oliva Scheiflbein/The Dragon

words Scott Monroe layout Julia Manning

Team faces stars, adversity The boys’ basketball team has faced and conquered many challenges in its program’s history. Last season, they qualified for

state, beat highly-favored Urbandale in the first round, lost only to eventual state champion Ames, and finished third. The season

1.

was categorized by many as an overwhelming success, and put a target on our backs.

Now that this season has begun, and with three out of five starters returning, expectations are higher than ever. But in order

3.

for the team to successfully navigate throughout its season and live up to those expectations, it will face a multitude of stars from around the area.

“Those types of players that can score 35 or 40 (points) on any given night,” head coach Bobby Sanquist said. “We’ll put our

best defender on him, but at the same time you must sell to the team that it is not an individual effort but the entire team will be defending him. You can’t stop these players. You can only try to limit them.”

Senior forward Bryce Johnson adds that, in order to succeed, it must be a team effort.

“Players like Harrison Barnes only come around every so often. It’s essential that we play strong defense at all times, no mat-

ter who is guarding him,” Johnson said.

Kody Ingle is a guard for S.E. Polk. The team leader on a squad that was eight points away from advancing to the state

tournament last year, Ingle is a two-sport athlete, also playing the role of starting quarterback for the Rams.

Creon Reed is a good basketball player playing for a bad team. Although North does not have much of a chance of going

anywhere... well... just look at his stats. On Nov. 30, in a game against Hoover, Reed put up 46 points while shooting 55 percent from the floor. The rest of the North team scored 23 points total.

Chanse Creekmur has accepted a basketball scholarship to Santa Clara University. Like Ingle, he is a two-sport athlete, but

chose basketball as his college sport of choice. The impressive part is that, even though he has already signed a letter of intent

with SCU, teams are still heavily recruiting him to play football. He had previously committed to playing football for Iowa, but “decommitted” to play basketball. Although it is unlikely that he will again decommit, it is always a possibility.

Harrison Barnes is the number one recruit in the nation according to Rivals.com and ESPN. After last season, Barnes was

named to the Naismith watch list, a list of ten players from across the nation that are competing for high school player of the year. He is a two-time 4A First Team All-Stater, 2009 4A player of the year and is committed to play basketball at North Carolina.

Barnes also has a 4.2 GPA.

2.

4. provided/ Creon Reed, Kody Ingle, Harrison Barnes,Chanse Creekmur

backpage

Dec 09

New Year’s Resolutions

p20

Year after year, a majority of Americans make New Year’s Resolutions. How or what do you plan to change for 2010?

words Ryan Smaha layout Eric Oatts

Ways to stick to your resolutions: Be realistic. It’s unrealistic to say that you will make a million dollars in a year in high school, so set a realistic goal that you can achieve.

Approach the change with a positive attitude, believe that you can achieve your goal.

Keep it simple. Don’t make too many resolutions so that you can’t achieve any of your goals.

Write it down on paper, with specifics and ways you are going to stick to your goals.

Build a support network that will cheer you on when you achieve your goals.

Reward yourself. Set measurable deadlines after achieving a goal on time, give yourself a small reward as positive reinforcement.

“(My resolution last year was) to give up chocolate. It lasted one day last year.”

Alyssa Eaves ‘11

“I want to learn to walk on my hands.”

Mikhala Stutzman ‘11

“(My resolution is) to make a (vocal music) album.”

Dane VanBrocklin ‘11

“Most people want to lose weight, but (my resolution is) to gain 1520 pounds so I can train with the football team.”

“I want to start my homework before 10 o’clock every night.”

Courtney Sabus ‘10

Faisal Alabsi ‘11

“(My resolution is) to become more active in activities outside of school.”

Cal Gruening ‘12

“(My resolution is) to finish my original novel.”

Allison Wignall ‘12

“(My resolution is) to stop procrastinating and be more productive with my time, especially with my harder classes.”

Joy Tan ‘12

“(My resolution is) to increase the horsepower of my truck.”

Jesse Ried ‘12

“I want to stop Facebook creeping so much.”

Caleb Wagner ‘10