black & white
It’s a
? y d a e r u o y e r A . e r e h t t u o s u circ
2 1 0 2 S U C U A C A W O I eight/nine
dec. 2011. volume 20 issue 4. 5152780449. 6501 NW 62nd ave. johnston. iowa
News 3
Photo essay
4
Re-interpretation of law
5
Relive the past month through photos
How Summit handled the arrest of a teacher
8/9
13
Jessica Pray
14
Robbery gone wrong
15
Johnston business gives back
Republican Candidates How to caucus
Advisory needs revising How it could be worth our time
Opinion
Immune system
December 2011
Feature
10
Newsbriefs/Stuco updates Responding to William’s arrest
Johnston alum turned pageant girl The real story behind what happened
Helping students prepare for jobs
11
New pe should be considered
Backpage 16
12
Back to Besic Pro/Con against drug education
Make sure your system is set for winter
Sports 7
Double Truck Editorial
A follow up about DMAAC credits
Health 6
the black and white
in this issue...
14 13
5
3
Wrestling offers opportunity
Football players turn to wrestling for extra workout
Helping athletes to prevent injuries
Scarred
Get the story behind student injuries
How soon is too soon for drug prevention?
In plain sight
Sports Bits
STAFF EDITORS
SUB-EDITORS
STAFF WRITERS
Zach Winjum
news
Kenzie Foldes Scott Syroka
editor-in-chief
Taylor Mithelman co-design
Evan Culbert co-design
Lauren Coffey managing
Ian Dunshee photo
On the cover: illustration by Lisa VanWiel
Mirza Besic
Paige Cramer backpage
Kristine Hayes opinion
Mallorie Goodale Sarah Margolin sports
Ashley Shay
health & fashion
Hannah Soyer feature
Taylor Joens
Monica Gagne
Wes Monroe
Laura Scieszinski
Ben Parsons
Lydia Sinclair
ILLUSTRATOR Lisa VanWiel * Editor’s note: Last month the “Blowing Smoke” opinion mentioned a survey seeing the effects of secondhand smoke. The link to the study is: http://news.stanford.edu/news/2007/may9/smoking-050907.html
PHILOSOPHY
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 and make all decisions of content. 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 editors at jhsblackandwhite@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 and sixth in the National Best of Show.
news
December IN
the b&wp.3
dec 2011
photos
<<< Gathering around Mike Zoller, a professor at Iowa State, seniors Amanda Teel, Johnny Katz, Dustin Thompson, Dino Omerhodzic and Nick Holland learn about PCR sequencing of DNA like police officers would for crime scenes. This was during an AP Bio. trip on Dec. 13.
<<<Senior Jose Iregui places his hand on the senior handprint wall. “It seemed like a cool way to leave the senior’s mark on the school after they are gone,” junior and student council member Will Krone said. The student council plans on continuing the event for years to come.
>>>
>>>
>>>
<< Singing “Silent Night” Seniors Sam Sparland and Alyssa Becker participate in the Madrigal dinner on Dec. 1. Sparland and Becker were the king and queen of the dinner. “I was humbled, it was truly an honor,” Becker said. >>> Creating a poster, senior Sammi Trail participates in a PAW (People for Animal Welfare) meeting. PAW is having a “Howliday” Pet Photo contest, where students are welcome to send their cutest holiday picture of their pet. There is a $1 entrance fee. All photos need to be turned in to Mrs. Burns’ room by January 11.
Playing the Timpani, senior Adam Jaschen performs during the winter band concert on Dec. 12. Both the Concert band and the Wind Symphony played four songs including “Titan’s Spirit” from the movie Remember the Titans.
Hanifen towing prepares the school bus to be moved. They screwed plates into the bottom and sides of the bus as attachment places for the cables that were used by two cranes to flip the bus back onto it’s wheels. See page 5 for the rest of the story.
the b&w p.4
news
dec 2011
Changes in college credit interpretation words & layout Ben Parsons credit classes have several options as well.
The state law regarding advanced place-
As one of several potential choices, an
ment credit is now being re-interpreted. This
ACT score of 21 on the reading portion will
will affect the way the Advanced Placement
give students the proficiency needed. Stu-
and college credit programs works.
dents that are part of the English Language
The State Department of Education
Learners program can take the I-ELDA
passed “Senior Year Plus” legislation sev-
exam to prove their proficiency.
eral years ago that explained how college
The students that decide to stay in the
credit can be given in high school classes.
AP classes without the college credit are
In the past, the Johnston school district has
still getting a college-level education. If the
been allowing students to drop the college
student is taking the AP class without the
credit in an AP course, yet maintain the high
college credit, then DMACC does not re-
school credit. This, according to the legisla-
ceive the money for that student.
tion, was acceptable.
Because of this, Johnston schools are
That is no longer the case. At the start
now requiring that if a student drops the
of the next semester, a new interpretation of
college credit for a class, they must drop
the legislation will go into effect, changing
the high school class altogether. This can
the way the college credit program works.
cause numerous issues. If a student de-
Ben Parsons/BW
College credit is given through Des
Seniors Samantha Phillips and Emma Van Houten debate over the dangers of mass media. The debates took place in Advanced Speech. This The way that Johnston has been handling class is one of those that will be affected by the new interpretation of the college credit program has been cost- the Senior Year Plus legislation. Moines Area Community College (DMACC).
ing DMACC money. Each year, the district receives $250,000 from the state to pay DMACC for the classes offering college credit.
If a student decided to drop the col-
lege credit, but stay in the class for the high school credit, the money that went to DMACC to pay for the class goes back to
Johnston. “What happens then is that the student is auditing the class,” Principal Brett
Riessen said. “They’re doing that if they take the class without the college credit.”
newsbriefs & stuco updates
NB
words & layout Taylor Joens
New measures have been taken to en-
sure that only students who meet certain standards will be able to take AP classes. Starting
second
semester,
students
need to prove their proficiency in the read-
ing, math, and science portions of the Iowa Tests (formerly the ITEDs). This means
they’ll have to score above the equivalent of the 41st percentile on these tests.
Even if students fall below the set pro-
ficiency standards, there are ways to still
falls below proficiency standards in either
guage requirements for getting into college making.
On Wed. Dec. 14, science teacher
en Apple Award is given to one teacher
ities such as weight training, along with
cardio provide students a way of improv-
ing their overall level of physical fitness. “The purpose was to create something
that combined the lifting from Track 4 and
the cardio from Track 1,” P.E. teacher, Brian Lutter, said.
The school has come to a deal with the
into a class they otherwise wouldn’t be able year the new measures will go into effect to get into. both semesters, so incoming juniors will Students who may not meet the lan- need to be aware of the commitment they’re
opportunity to create a personalized
cardiovascular and muscle fitness. Activ-
ate. Although this would be an issue, this
dent’s abilities in either category and, at the resolve any scheduling issues and to get teacher’s discretion, gain the student entry enrolled in new classes, if need be. Next
Chris Beguhn received the “Golden Apple”
workout that allows for improvement in
class itself, they may be unable to gradu-
science or reading, a portfolio can be put Department of Education that gives stutogether. This portfolio can showcase a stu- dents until the start of second semester to
track offered for P.E. Track 5, Cross Training for Lifelong Fitness, offers the
senior year and they end up dropping the
wouldn’t be too common. “Most students do get into a class offering college credit. If a take the class for college credit.” Riessen student is gifted in math, for example, but said.
New track for next year Beguhn wins award Starting next year there will be a new
cides to not take the college credit in a class
award from WHO news channel. The Goldeach month during the school year and is
based on nominations given by students.
Senior Anna Pierce nominated Beguhn by sending in a letter to the station. “She’s
so dedicated to teaching and helping us,”
Pierce said. “It seems like she’s always at
Student council updates upcoming events the details january 12-13 Johnston’s Got
Talent auditions @ 3 p.m.
27 Basketball game
vs. Urbandale @ 7:45 p.m.; Overtime at Johnston E-Free
school.” Each year thousands of letters are
sent in. They are then reviewed by WHOHD and their partner, Allied Insurance.
30 Johnston’s Got
Talent (community talent show)
Sign up in Beguhn’s room to audition to be a part of Johnston’s community talent show in January. A raffle will be held at the game with proceeds going towards cancer research. Overtime will have Just Dance, dodgeball, and pizza. All community members welcome. Audience helps to determine winner. Prizes for winners. Tickets will be available for purchase.
news
the b&w p.5
dec 2011
Summit school responds to William’s arrest words & layout
Zach Winjum
As the news was being reported by
After being notified of a staff member’s
the media on the night of the arrest, an
Clay Guthmiller alerted Summit adminis-
homes that have students attending Sum-
arrest Thursday, Nov. 10, Superintendent tration. Summit principal Linda Hansen called a staff meeting that afternoon and
encouraged students to speak with counselors the days following the arrest.
The arrest involved Summit special
education teacher Steven Williams. Au-
thorities took Williams into custody from his home at 6:00 a.m. Nov. 10. Williams
was arrested on charges of sending obscene material to a minor as well as so-
“Alert Now” message was sent to all the mit. Guthmiller’s voice was recorded for the message and explained that Williams
was arrested and that as far as the district is aware, no students were involved in the
situation. It also mentioned that counselors would be available to students if they
would like to speak with them, and that the district was following proper procedures to ensure the safety of staff and students.
A Veterans’ Day program had been
liciting sex acts with a minor. Both of the
planned for the following morning. The
tigation in which officers pretended to be
gram, the district outreach counselor and
charges were a result of a federal inves-
young girls that Williams was communicating with. Williams has pleaded not guilty
and awaits trial. The arrest was a surprise
Zach Winjum/BW
Summit counselor spoke to the 56 stu-
Substitute Mary Bramer works on math problems with students in the Journey community at Summit. Bramer took William’s place since he was arrested. She will continue to substitute until a long-term substitute is hired
Williams had taught. The counselors were
had just met with him Monday morning
liam’s place in the classroom and has been
speak with them in private. “Teachers were
arrested,” Windom said. “I was shocked
“It goes without saying that Mr. William’s
to speak with the counselor to be given
in his nature and felt sad for my son be-
place, but they have been responsive and
might only want to leave class,” Hansen
Since some students were still not
Comfort also came from the coun-
event went on as scheduled. After the pro-
dents in the base camp classrooms where also available if the students wished to
and to discover three days later he was
teaching the students since his arrest.
told to allow any students who requested
when I heard because it didn’t seem to be
students were sad and upset at what took
the opportunity—even if it appeared they
cause he saw him as a friend.”
cooperative in the aftermath,” Bramer said.
said. “The first and foremost important
aware of William’s arrest by the following
selors. “The counselors said everything
safety.”
ment to be read to all students by the
better teacher that wouldn’t do stuff like
betrayed and sick,” sixth grader Mason
selors. “When I talked to my son he said
that a teacher who was arrested would
Sixth grader Jessica Ludwig, a student
day,” Stephanie Windom, mother of Ma-
was a mistake. It also reminded them that
everything would blow over soon.”
reacted very well and did what they could.”
students are safe. Hansen notified parents
they handled the situation. “The students
Williams days before the arrest to talk
dents.
maturity as could be hoped for in sixth
to the school administration. “It was an ongoing federal investigation that we were not aware of,” Hansen said.
The administration also planned an-
other meeting the following morning so the staff would know how to handle what had
happened after more information was announced through the media.
After hearing the news, some students
were shocked and disgusted. “I felt sad, Caruthers said.
that was also taught by Williams found out
about the incident Thursday night on the local news. “When I saw his picture on TV I started crying because I didn’t know what to do,” Ludwig said.
thing is safety. In this case it’s emotional
Monday, Hansen sent out a written state-
would be okay because we would get a
A total of 17 students spoke with coun-
teachers. The message assured students
that,” sixth grader Aubree Sanders said.
[the counselors] followed them around all
not be returning unless the judge says it
told us that everything would be okay and
son Caruthers said. “I thought the school
there are guidelines and rules to assure
Bramer commended students for how
Windom and Caruthers had met with
about the statement that was read to stu-
about Caruther’s academic progress. “I
Substitute Mary Bramer has taken Wil-
Bus accident blocks 100th Bus No. 31 tipped on its side blocking N.W.
100th Street in Johnston, around 2:40 p.m. Friday, Dec. 2. No children were aboard.
The bus driver, Judy Russel, was the only
person on the bus. “She wasn’t even [taken to the hospital],” firefighter Shawn Beuberd said.
Russel initially went into the ditch because
of an unknown medical problem that caused
her to lose consciousness momentarily, said
the school’s Director of Transportation Mike Volz. As soon as Russel made contact with
the ditch she became conscious. “When she realized where she was [in the ditch] she tried to correct it,” Volz said.
words & layout
Sixth grader Tahj Neely agreed, “They
have dealt with the situation with as much graders,” Bramer said.
Kristine Hayes
Russel’s unconsciousness was very brief. while the other tipped it back up. Once the bus “From the time she went into unconsciousness was on all wheels, an employee from Hanefin to the time she went out was about 8.5-9 sec- towing helped steer it onto the truck. Dr. James Casey, Director of Human Reonds,” Volz said, “[Afterword,] she had no recollection of [how she ended up in the ditch].”
sources for the district, said, “We want to make
the other side of the road.
cident of this degree and thank heavens there
As she regained consciousness, she over- sure everyone is safe on all of our bus routes, corrected and went nose-first into the ditch on and this is the first time we have had an acFrom there the bus flipped up and landed were no children on the bus.” Casey does not know if the bus was sideways, blocking both lanes of the street.
Beuberd helped prepare the bus so it could deemed a total loss since there was extensive be moved. Two cranes lifted it back onto its damage. Because it was tipped on its side the
wheels. While lifting the bus, straps were cosmetic damages may be more expensive to placed around it and one crane turned the bus repair than buying a new bus.
Bus No. 31 after it was tipped back onto it’s wheels. Hanefin towing towed it away.
the b&w p.6
health
dec 2011
fend off eat
flu season
eat fish
nothing sounds more welcoming than a warm bed and some crackers,
missing school means falling behind, and loads of makeup work
balance of good and bad bacteria. Get-
pounds that help your immune system. Eat tuna, salm-
do
enough it seems as though everyone and their mother is ill (the bad kind). While
The digestive tract has a natural
Fish are a great source of Omega-3â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s and other comon, herring, and trout. Not into fish?
Mix flaxseed in your diet
Researchers from the Cleveland
With the arrival of winter comes cold and flu season. Someone sneezes, and soon
yogurt
Omega-3 fatty acids increase the production of phago-
cytes, a white blood cell that protects against infection.
relax
easy ways to boost your immune system
words & layout Evan Culbert
for Omega 3â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s.
ting sick causes an unbalance. Yogurt
tions a try to boost your
bacteria. Consuming yogurt can help
and stay
contains probiotics, which are a good
immune system,
restore or maintain a healthy balance of
healthy.
this good bacteria, as well
Clinic have found that increased
as activate phago-
levels of stress and anxiety have
cytes and natural
a direct effect on the immune sys-
killer cells to fight
tem. Stress causes infection fight-
off foreign cells.
ing blood cells to decline. To relax, try
bring on the citrus
Citrus fruits are packed with Vitamin
C, essential for increasing white blood
cell and antibody production. Shoot for at least 100 milligrams a day by eating cit-
meditation, yoga and even laughing
take
is guaranteed. To prevent getting sick, give these sugges-
rus fruits like oranges, grapefruits, lem-
often to reduce stress.
go to bed
zinc
ons, clementines, and tangerines. Two medium oranges is about 100 milligrams.
While it may be easier
An essential min-
said than done for most
eral, zinc is a powerful
people, getting a solid eight
antioxidant which can help
hours of sleep each night will help
fight off free radicals in the body,
maintain a healthy immune system. The Department
and decrease the length and sever-
ity of colds. Zinc helps the body absorb
of Psychiatry at the University of California found that
vitamin A and maintain vitamin E levels in the
natural immunity declines with sleep. Getting less than eight
hours can lead to increased chemicals that make us more
blood. Try taking zinc lozenges, or Zicam
susceptible to viruses and infection.
when you feel a cold coming on.
echinacea
This herb has been shown to
stimulate the production of white blood
cells
and
exercise
Regular exercise is extremely important in increasing
immune function. Just 20 minutes of elevated heart
rate five times a week will improve immunity by in-
interferon,
creasing body temperature to fight bacteria, increasing
which improves immune system
response.
Supplements
of
the pink flower are have been shown to decrease the
chance of catching
the common cold by
58 per cent, as well as
shorten colds by 1.4
days. Check with your doctor before use.
circulation, and clearing the lungs.
sports
dec 2011
the b&w p.7
Wrestling brings in football players words & layout
Wes Monroe
For some, wrestling is another method to stay in shape.
Senior Nick Newton wrestles with sophomore Rory Coniconde during a wrestling practice. Newton originally joined the wrestling team to improve his skills for football. This is his second year on the wrestling team.
But for a small group of football players it turned out to be
more. “A bunch of my football coaches told me I should do
wrestling because it would help me with football,” senior
Nick Newton said. There is a lot that wrestling can do that transfers directly to the football field. This includes everything from footwork to hand-eye coordination.
“When you’re on the mat one on one you have no one
to blame but yourself when you lose and that brings tough-
ness when you are center circle versus an opponent,” Head football coach Brian Woodley said. “That translates
into football. And when it gets to the fourth quarter and things are tough we need kids with mental toughness to persevere and win the ball game.”
Newton and sophomore Brandon Sexton joined the
wrestling team last season in hope of it helping them be-
come better athletes come football season. Over time they learned the sport and began to really enjoy it.
Ian Dunshee/BW
“I like the challenge of the sport and the feeling you
lete,” Sexton said. “I lost to many people that I was stron-
Wrestling also has a family factor. “Everyone is really close
are so hard that it makes practices for other sports seem
he shifts his weight and flips you because they have more
eat together, you wrestle together, you cut weight together
get when you win a match,” Newton said. “The practices
ger than, it’s just frustrating when your pinning a kid and
easier.” Wrestling is a grueling sport that takes a lot of de-
experience.”
termination and dedication to master.
It was tough joining a sport for the first time and hav-
ing to face opponents that have been wrestling for years.
“Wrestling isn’t all about who’s the bigger, stronger ath-
Though wrestling is difficult, it does help physically
and mentally which transfers to results on the football field.
“You can’t blame other people for your mishaps. It’s all on you,” Sexton said.
for those four months of the season,” Sexton said. “You
and most of all you are always there to pick someone up,” Sexton said.
Wrestling takes hard work and commitment to succeed
but it can form an athlete. The season is long and tough but rewarding and the results go a long way.
1 2
Sports briefs
Girls’ Basketball
Boys’ Swimming
The girl’s basketball season started on
The boys swimming team competed at the
Nov. 7. Players work hard during two-hour long practices that involve rebounding
drills, shooting drills, and other drills to
improve their performance. On Dec. 6, the Varsity team won a game against Lincoln
girl’s basketball team aims for success like
the win against Lincoln for games to come.
Kenzie Foldes/BW
Their record is now 4-0 including the Ames Invite. After their recent win they are now
ranked first in power-rankings. At the Ames Invite sophomore Justin Winnett broke
the school record for breast stroke with a time of 1:00.87.
Boys’ Basketball
The wrestling team started off their season
The boys now have a record of 2-3 as of
ley on Dec. 1. As of Dec. 14 their record is
last year and are aiming to rebuild for later
now 0-2. Top wrestlers sophomore Jake
Senior Kailey Kerr
first time in school history took first place.
Wrestling
with a loss against West Des Moines Val-
Scanlan and senior Joe Scanlan along
with other teammates are looking to get a win against Southeast Polk on Jan. 5.
layout Kenzie Foldes
Ames Invitational on Dec. 3 and for the
3 4 High School, with the score of 49-44. The
words Taylor Joens
Dec. 14. The team lost crucial players from years. New drills and longer practices six
to seven days a week further improve the team. Their next game is against Urban-
dale at Urbandale High School on Thursday, Dec. 22.
Senior Nick Newton (left) Sophomore Rory Coniconde (right) Ian Dunshee/BW
Learn who is eligible to caucus, where to go, and how to caucus in
Provided/Rick Santorum for President
Provided/Romney for President, Inc.
Provided/RickPerry.org, Inc.
Provided/Ron Paul Presidential Campaign Committee
Provided/Newt 2012
Provided/Bachmann for President
caucus 2012
dec 2011
the b&w p.8&9
Republican candidates at 5% or above according to The Des Moines Register’s Iowa Poll (Nov. 27 to Nov. 30): Michele Bachmann, Newt Gingrich, Ron Paul, Rick Perry, Mitt Romney, and Rick Santorum. President Barack Obama, right.
Iowa’s first-in-the-nation contests January 3rd
2012IowaCaucuses
layout Scott Syroka words Paige Cramer and Hannah Soyer Provided/The White House
With a constantly shifting nominating contest on the Republican side and one of the first tests of organizational strength for President Obama’s team on the Democratic side, Iowa’s first-inthe-nation caucuses yet again bring the national spotlight to our state. While President Obama has had an Iowa infrastructure that never stopped contacting voters, Republicans are catching up. Before Jan. 3, inform yourself with the background basics on this year’s Republicans.
Eligibility Almost all of the senior class is eligible to caucus. Sev-
Locations Caucuses are held in every precinct in Iowa. They are
Process D: People gather in designated spaces to publicly declare
enteen-year-olds are eligible to caucus as long as they will
set up in a variety of locations including community centers,
their support. To be viable and earn delegates, a candidate
member of whichever party’s caucus you attend. However,
and Republican party websites have tools to help you find
The candidate with the most delegates awarded wins.
be 18-years-old by Nov. 6, 2012. You must be a registered
you can change your party registration at the caucus. In addition, observers are allowed but cannot actively participate.
churches, schools, and more. Both the Iowa Democratic
caucus locations. If you’re a Democrat, go to www.thecau-
needs support from 15% or more of those in attendance.
R: Ballots are passed out, you write your preference in
cuses.com. If you’re a Republican, go to www.iowagop.org.
secret, and the candidate with the most votes wins.
Bachmann
Gingrich
Paul
Perry
Romney
Santorum
Current residence
Current residence
Current residence
Current residence
Current residence
Current residence
Education
Education
Education
Education
Education
Education
— Received a J.D. from Oral Roberts and an LL.M from
— Received an M.A. and PhD from Tulane University
— Received an M.D. from Duke University
—Received an MBA and J.D. from Harvard University
— Received an MBA from University of Pittsburgh
— Minnesota
— Received a B.A. from Winona State University William & Mary
— Virginia
— Received a B.A. from Emory University
— Texas
— Received a B.S. from Gettysburg College
— Texas
— Received a B.S. from Texas A&M University
Political experience
Political experience
Political experience
Political experience
Sixth Congressional District; elected in November 2006
House Minority Whip, and congressman from Georgia’s
Congressional District; elected in November 1996
ernor, commissioner of agriculture, and member of the U.S.
— Currently a U.S. congresswoman from Minnesota’s
— Former Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives, Sixth Congressional District (1979-1999)
— Currently a U.S. congressman from Texas’ Fourteenth
— Currently the governor of Texas, former lieutenant gov-
— Massachusetts
— Received a B.A. from Brigham Young University
Political experience — Former governor of Massachusetts
House of Representatives
— Pennsylvania
— Received a B.A. from Penn State University — Received a J.D. from Penn State University
Political experience
— Former senator from Pennsylvania and member of U.S. House of Representatives
Family
Family
Family
Family
Family
Family
— Five children: Lucas, Harrison, Elisa, Caroline, and So-
— Two children from a previous marriage: Kathy Gingrich
— Five children: Ron Paul, Jr., Lori Paul Pyeatt, Rand
— Two children: Griffin and Sydney
— Five children: Tagg, Matthew, Joshua, Benjamin, and
— Seven children: Elizabeth, John, Daniel, Sarah Maria,
— Married to Marcus Bachmann phia
— Married to Callista Gingrich
Lubbers and Jackie Gingrich Cushman
— Married to Carol Paul
Paul, Robert Paul, and Joy Paul-Leblanc
— Married to Anita Perry
— Married to Ann Romney Craig
— Married to Karen Santorum Peter, Patrick, and Isabella
Religion
Religion
Religion
Religion
Religion
Religion
For policy specifics
For policy specifics
For policy specifics
For policy specifics
For policy specifics
For policy specifics
— Evangelical Christian
— www.michelebachmann.com
— Catholic
— www.newt.org
— Baptist
— www.ronpaul2012.com
— Evangelical Christian
— www.rickperry.org
— Mormon
— www.mittromney.com
— Evangelical Christian
— www.ricksantorum.com
the b&w p.10
editorial
dec 2011
Advisory not reaching goals Whether it be called seminar, homeroom, or advisory, a
Teacher and advisory board member Alicia Rollison is on
class period dedicated to future planning and making a con-
the personalization team which handles and oversees the ad-
and goals may change from grade to grade, but the content
“The goal of advisory is to give students one more adult
nection with a teacher never seems to disappear. The name
visory program.
has not improved since these classes begun. The point may
they have a connection with,” Rollison said. “Just someone to
be to instill some form of good character or ideals in the stu-
talk to about scheduling, life, or just any questions they have.”
A perfect example is the class “seminar” of ninth grade. It is
with noble goals, but does not think students see the value of
were freshmen. A core part of the class was reading a book
“Advisory, currently, is not meeting goals put in place,”
dents, but the class misses the mark by a large margin.
Teacher Jesse Dowell sees advisory as a noble program
no longer a required course, but it was when current seniors
the program.
about celebrity leaders. Interestingly enough, Tiger Woods
Dowell said. “Whenever students get a worksheet, they dis-
headlined a section about preparation. When the class was
engage and are like ‘Oh no! This looks like work.’”
we would either watch vaguely related movies, or spend the
or just zone off for twenty minutes. Sophomore Hannah Van
play dodgeball, but by no means did that build good character.
ing used to its full potential. “(Advisory) is worthwhile in some
matches.
in high school, but we don’t ever get enough time to finish the
not reading about celebrities with supposed good character,
Most students simply use this time to either do homework
time free-reading. The best part of the class was getting to
Zee is new to the high school, and feels advisory is not be-
Cheating and complaining were commonplace at dodgeball
ways,” Van Zee said. “It’s a great time to plan for your future
Seminar is now optional at the middle school, but at the
high school, advisory is mandatory. The two are not exact rep-
online planning.”
Senior Ben Smith has attended Johnston since tenth
licas, but both are a period of time to spend on non-academic
grade, and feels advisory does not have much value.
even so, filling out worksheets about our goals and getting pa-
that I could just talk to my parents about,” Smith said. “Most of
issues. Advisory spends less time on character building, but per handouts about the importance of reduce, reuse, recycle gets old rather quickly.
The problem is that neither students nor teachers get seri-
ous about it. Building character is something parents should
“I feel as if the little lessons they try to teach us are lessons
the time they are not very relevant to me.”
If there is one over-arching theme that everyone can agree
on, it is that advisory could use some tweaking.
“It is one of those things that you get out what you put in.”
and usually do care about. Advisory teachers, on the other
Rollison said. “If the teacher gives the effort, it can be a posi-
Dragon TV.
waste of time.”
hand, often apathetically read off of a worksheet or turn on
tive experience. If they just do the bare minimum, then it is a
The editorial board votes on the opinion behind the editorial. A simple majority is needed to pass. This month’s vote was 9-1.
opinion
dec 2011
the b&w p.11
New PE neccesary for athletes Extra workout before games proves to be detrimental words & layout Mallorie Goodale
steps to prevent ACL injuries.
“All the coaches had a meeting with an
When Aug. 8 comes, the summer of a
girl swimmer is over. Practices start and
orthopedic doctor who talked to us about
ming, along with many other sports, prac-
athletes,” said volleyball coach and health
again after school. Every other day, these
out to start doing in order to try and lower
As a freshman, I had second period
the workout into our volleyball program two
ing swimming workout. On the days of
In seventh grade, senior Joy Tan broke
soon after, and so does school. Swim-
the rise in ACL injuries, especially in female
tice twice a day, once in the morning and
teacher, Lacey Fulton. “He gave us a work-
athletes have another workout: P.E.
these types of injuries. When incorporated
P.E., just an hour and a half after my morn-
to three times a week.”
meets, I would swim, run for 30 minutes in
her leg while in P.E. She was in a wheel-
later that night.
sports for the rest of the year. “I was upset I
school, or both, do not need to have a third
stay indoors the rest of the year,” Tan said.
P.E. and still have to do well at the meet
chair for half the year and was unable to do
Athletes that workout before or after
wasn’t able to join a sport because I had to
As of right now, JHS has two tracks de-
workout in their day.
According to Dr. Pauline Powers, author
of “The Exercise Balance,” excessive exer-
cise leads to stress fractures, musculoskel-
Mallorie Goodale/BW
signed specifically for athletes: track one
Sophomore Drew Grill performs a hang clean lift in the weight room. Grill plays baseball and golf and is currently in Track 4 P.E.
be added for next year. “We are going to combine the cardio part of track one,” Track
etal injuries and cardiovascular problems.
I am not going to rant about how P.E.
is pointless and athletes shouldn’t have to
take it, but I do think that there should be an
alternative for to athletes who don’t want to risk an avoidable injury by over-exercising.
A new P.E. track that would put the fo-
cus less on working out and more on injury prevention for athletes would be beneficial.
The curriculum of the P.E. class would consist of learning how to properly warm up,
cool down, stretch appropriately and correct
range of motion.
4 P.E. teacher Brian Lutter said. “Like the
the risk of injuries. Although these activities
working out. It is encouraged for any athlete
strength and fitness of track four like weight
for injury prevention would be valuable.
ries if the correct techniques are not used.
up and cool down along with your workout
way to perform lifts could prevent sprains,
This is why the school needs to add one
says stretching helps decrease risk of inju-
doing a lift wrong.
health in mind, but also does not wear them
techniques while lifting weights to minimize
The Iowa caucus: an important, if largely symbolic, primary is quickly approaching,
and the field of candidates is slowly starting
to shrivel. So far, it is reminiscent of every election in recent history. And that is a serious problem.
What I mean by that is no matter how
much every candidate promises to be
different, no matter how much he or she
treadmills and running with the muscular
make up much of Track 4, a track designed
lifting.”
According to mayoclinic.com, a warm
Learning these techniques and the proper
still get a quality workout in every other day.
reduces risk of injury. Mayoclinic.com also
strains, fractures that could be caused by
more track that not only keeps the athlete’s
ries by helping joints move thought their full
This year, the girls volleyball team took
The problem with politics in America
It’s getting to be that time of year again.
Weight lifting is also a major part of
in the offseason but can cause major inju-
kcaB2Besic
words & layout Mirza Besic
and track four, however an extra track will
noise coming from the Democrats, but that
Everybody is furious at the government
and at Wall Street for lying or being greedy,
candidate for the general election. Whether
eryone is as gullible as a seven-year-old
campaigning yet, as they already have a or not you agree with the message the What really is important is that none of
of them will do will make a big difference.
them are 100% truthful.
stimulated, and wars come and go. But the
the politicians. They are doing what they
don’t have) that plague this country seem
elected. The problem also lays with the
The Republican field of candidates is
It amazes me how Americans always
Sure, laws get passed, the economy is
down for sports.
is understandable. They don’t need to be
candidates are spreading is not important.
promises to change the country, nothing any
It is a good start, because athletes can
The fault does not belong completely to
but as soon as election year comes, evagain. We are $14 trillion in debt, but every
candidate promises to cut that down. If you haven’t noticed yet, the debt clock has con-
tinued to go up through both the Bush and the Obama administration.
There’s no way to fix the problem with-
biggest problems (i.e. spending money we
have to do in this political system to get
out completely changing the fundamentals
to go unchanged.
American people.
Reforming not only the way campaigns can
campaigning at full steam ahead, making
manage to forget how politics work. The
running
to hear, because that’s how they will get
that dictate how our government works. raise money, but also laws
Being president is a tough job, one that
promises left and right. Every candidate
candidates are all saying what voters want
none of us can possibly even imagine.
Obama‘s tyranny or restore America, or
into office. That’s how the American system
president knows that the average person
is
promising
to
either
undo
a mixture of the two. There is not much
works, and has worked for 200 years.
There are about a billion things that the has no idea about.
the b&w p.12
opinion
dec 2011
Age Appropriate?
Drug Education in the Elementary years
At what age should kids learn in depth about drugs, alcohol, and tobacco? According to district curriculum, alcohol and tobacco are first mentioned until second grade and illegal drugs are discussed in fifth grade through the Code 411 Program. The topic arose at a Rock In Prevention assembly held at Timber Ridge Elementary.
School has it right words & layout
Taylor Mithelman
The sooner the better words Ashley Shay
With a line of elementary students beside me I lean down and
Whether we like it or not, kids are going to be exposed to drugs
ask the first one, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Hey, you want a cigarette?â&#x20AC;? This was a role-play-
sooner or later. Most likely it will be somewhere with their friends rath-
practicing their refusal skills. This was part of Red Ribbon Week in
kids at home about not doing drugs, they should start to be taught
and Rock In Prevention, a non-profit organization.
students learn about the harm of drugs and the consequences of us-
ing activity I did with the elementary kids at Timber Ridge who were
er than at home. This means that as well as parents talking to their
which high school NCYL students worked with elementary students
about it more in depth at school at a younger age. The sooner that
According to district health curriculum, second graders are made
aware of the harmful effects of tobacco and alcohol. In third grade
ing them, the better.
When I was in first grade at Perkins Academy, in Des Moines,
they practice refusal skills, in fourth grade illegal drugs are brought
there was a school assembly that grades first through fifth attend-
gram, formerly known as D.A.R.E., in which a police officer gives
lungs compared to a non smokers lungs, and like at Rock In Preven-
drugs.
or alcohol through skits. There was even a video about illegal drugs.
riculum when it comes to drugs and alcohol. With my experience as
drugs, what they do, and to never use them. It let us have fun but
young people do not comprehend what tobacco alcohol and drugs
them and remember them to this day.
into the curriculum. Fifth graders participate in The Code 411 pro-
ed. At the assembly they showed examples of things like a smokers
students in-depth information about tobacco, alcohol, and gateway
tion, they demonstrated how to say no if someone offered you drugs
The school has put together a completely age appropriate cur-
I can remember it talked about the name of many different illegal
a nanny, and living with younger siblings, I have seen first hand that
taught us valuable lessons at the same time. I have benefited from
entail. For example, when my brother was in first grade, he took a
Nowadays so many kids are starting to experiment with drugs and
Singing into the microphone, elrolled up piece of paper and pretended to smoke it like a cigarette. ementary student Alexa McMuHe had no idea what it actually meant, and like many other parents, lin participates during the Rock In Prevention assebly at Timber my mom explained to him that it was something that we do not do. Ridge.
alcohol at an increasing younger age. An annual survey conducted by
the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) reported that 32.2 percent of students have drank alcohol and 11.3 percent have tried marijuana,
For young elementary students this is the proper way for tobacco
before the age of 13. Unfortunately that means to keep kids safe we
with these subjects or talk about illegal drugs at home, that is their
first. If the appropriate information about drugs and alcohol are put
The school has it right when it comes to teaching age appropriate
time kids are exposed they will have the background information and
and alcohol to be discussed. If parents choose to go more in-depth
have to bring up drugs and alcohol at school in grades as young as
decision.
into the curriculum each year, there is a better chance that by the
health material.
knowledge to know what to do if offered any.
And we thought the smokers were bad.
In Plain Sight Illustration Lisa Vanwiel
feature
dec 2011
the b&w p.13
Pray prepares for pageant Johnston alumna turned Miss Iowa prepares for Miss America pageant words Laura Scieszinski
layout Kenzie Foldes
As 20-year-old Johnston alumna
Jessica Pray sits down at her computer, she goes through the normal routine of
most people. Check Facebook, check her e-mail, and look up YouTube videos. But unlike most people, watching YouTube
videos will be the starting point of her competing in pageants.
Jessica never planned on being in
pageants, until her friend suggested she
compete in the Miss Muscatine pageant.
“I said ‘What the heck, why not?’” Jessica
said. “It’s not very typical. It’s usually considered a late start in the pageant world
if you start when you are 14. So as an 18 year old, I was pretty late.” Rather than
hiring a coach like most girls, she taught herself using YouTube videos on how to
pose and walk. She went on to win Miss
Muscatine, and competed and won the title of Miss Iowa. She is now training for the Miss America title.
Although Jessica started late in the
pageant world, she believes her experiences have given her the knowledge
and skills necessary to be Miss Iowa and partake in the Miss America competition.
“I think part of that is that early off we were involved in high school public speaking,”
Jennifer, Jessica’s sister said. “Volunteer
work, she’s always been involved in that.
So in a way even though she hasn’t been
doing pageants for a long time she’s been preparing her whole life for this experience.”
With Jessica being so involved with
pageantry, she’s had to postpone some things. “Part of my contract is to take a
whole year off school,” Jessica said. “I get paid for the appearances I do so it’s like
a full-time job, there is no way on earth to ever be in school and do this job.”
Preparing for the Miss America pageant
consumes a lot of Jessica’s time. She’s
been focusing attention to the judge’s interview, which she believes to be a
vital part of the pageant. Although not televised, the interview is ten minutes
going over a broad range of topics with seven judges.
“They basically sit in front of you
while you stand behind a podium and
they fire question after question,” Jessica said. “It could be anything from abortion to how did working at Van
Dee’s change your life.” She has taken public speaking training at such places as the Dale Carnegie Institute and has had about 17 mock interviews since June.
Jessica also goes to events to sup-
port her platform. A platform is a cause a contestant promotes through her
title and involvement with the pageant. Jessica chose “Saving Lives Through
the Gift of Blood Donation”. She works
Jessica Pray, Miss Iowa 2011, stands before an audience who attended the Send-Off to Miss America party on Dec. 11, 2011. Audience members of the party were given the opportunity to ask Pray questions as an exercise that would help Pray prepare for the interview portion of the 2011 Miss America pageant. Jessica Pray (left), Miss Iowa 2011, and Francesca Lubecki-Wilde (right), Miss Iowa’s Outstanding Teen 2011, enjoy themselves at the Send-Off to Miss America party on Dec. 11, 2011. The two pageant winners have became friends over the time they have spent together volunteering around the community.
primarily with blood centers as well as
attend things like blood drives, such as
at JHS, and donor recognition banquets. Her appearance is another focus of
Jessica’s. “You can’t look like the average college student,” Jessica’s mother
and business manager, Rita Pray, said. “It’s that constant ‘You need to look
good all the time’ and that pressure.
You actually need to care about your
appearance because people are looking and taking pictures.”
All of Jessica’s hard work will be
tested in Las Vegas at the Miss America pageant. Tune in to ABC at 8 p.m.
January 14 to cheer on Jessica as she fights to become the first Miss Iowa to ever win Miss America. “Her talent is just off the charts, she’s got the voice
of an angel,” Jessica’s personal trainer
Ray Porter said. “I think she’s got a real shot.”
Iowa Senator Maggie Tinsman (left) and Jessica Pray (right), Miss Iowa 2011, attend the Dream Fundraising Gala at the Hotel Blackhawk Aug. 27, 2011. The event was to raise awareness about human trafficking in the Quad Cities. Tinsman gave a speech about this issue and Pray performed two vocal pieces.
the b&w p.14
feature
dec 2011
Good samaritan gets shot and injured Man trying to save victim becomes victim himself
words & layout Lauren Coffey
Recovery *Both James and Amy Bradford
declined to be interviewed for this article.
For most students, the scariest
thing that has happened to them was getting into a car accident.
Things like robberies and shootings are things we hear about, but usually are lucky enough to never deal with. For sophomore
Tyler Bradford though, these things are all too real for him.
9:00 p.m.
On Friday, Nov. 27, Tyler was with his parents at his dad’s friend’s house. At around 10:30, they
saw
three
men
walk-
ing around the neighborhood. “We didn’t pay them any mind,”
Bradford said. Around 20 minutes later the men started look-
ing through the house next door to where the Bradford’s were.
“They ran in and all we could
see were shadows through the window,” Tyler said. “They were wearing ski masks.” Tyler, father
James Bradford, and James’
friends all decided to go after the men. The next door neighbor is
pregnant, which helped in the de-
cision of going after the robbers. Tyler said. “We didn’t really think
about (going after the robbers). It doesn’t pop into your head that
they might have a gun or something.”
10:30 p.m.
12:10 p.m.
towards the robbers they were
lice after hearing the gun shots.
As the Bradford’s were running running
away.
The
robbers
pulled out a 9 mil copper jacket handgun and started shooting
towards Tyler and his father. Their friends were hidden, while
Tyler and his father were out in the open. “I wasn’t behind anything, I had to bear crawl eight
feet to a trailer to hide,” Tyler
said. “My dad was by a garage, and he had to crawl to get down. When he turned, he got shot in the back.”
12 p.m.
The bullet that was fired from the gun hit the edge of the ga-
rage door where James was standing, and ricocheted off. As
the bullet hit the door, it started
turning. When it hit James, the bullet was end-side up. If it was
front-side up, it would have killed him. The bullet hit him in
his vertebrae. If the bullet had been a few inches higher, it would have hit him in the heart. James was both incredibly lucky
and incredibly unfortunate. “I didn’t see him get shot, I was
worried about getting shot myself,” Tyler said. “But when you actually hear the bullet tumbled
that far from his aorta, and they way the bullet tumbled the way it did, he would have been dead if it hadn’t.”
James had surgery to
remove the bullet and
Tyler’s mother called the po-
The police came about 10 min-
utes later, and took James to the hospital. “My dad didn’t really express pain, “ Tyler said. “The doctor didn’t even think he was shot, he wasn’t bleeding a lot.”
The men left the scene before the police came. They have not been
caught yet. “They don’t have any information about them,” Tyler
said. “It rained, so the fingerprints on the casings are probably gone.” The men took an Xbox
and an iPad from the house. “It’s what happens, people don’t get
caught for stupid reasons,” Tyler
said. “I was more or less nervous about my dad, I wasn’t re-
ally scared (After the shooting). It’s what happens when you live
in a bad neighborhood, you get
used to it. It’s not bad enough to move or anything.” Tyler’s mom was a more worried after. “There
was one point in time my mom just kept double locking all our doors.” Tyler said.
is currently undergo-
ing physical therapy.
“The doctors say he’s three weeks ahead of
anyone who’s had spinal injuries,” Tyler said. “He’s only on a heart monitor now.” James is
expected to make a full recovery. With Christmas coming up, the Bradford’s hope James is able to be out of the hospital in time. “The docs
say maybe (he can be home for Christmas),
we’re hoping. If we have to (celebrate at the hospital) we will.” Support
Although this has been hard on the family, they
have the support of each other and their friends to help. “(Our family) was always really close,” Tyler said. “We never told lies, we always try to be honest with each other. I don’t know if hav-
ing me and my mom there (when my dad was shot) helped, just having family around helped. My friend’s ask how (my dad’s) doing every-
day.” There is also a donation fund set up to
help the Bradford’s, the Jim Bradford Donation Account.
For people with family members in similar situ-
ations, Tyler has a piece of advice. “Keep your hopes up,” Tyler said. “When you let the victim see you’re hurt, he’s gonna start downing
himself too.” He also has a word of advice for
people in a similar situation he was in. If some incident happens when you have to make a
quick decision, think it through first. “Call the cops immediately,” Tyler said. “Don’t try to be
the hero, because you’ll never know if they have a gun.”
feature
dec 2011
Building Experience Store owner works with students to prepare them for future jobs words & layout Lydia Sinclair
The back room of the store Created in John-
how do YOU think you did?” Moriarty paused
Holman is spray painting the concrete statue
Meyer awarded him with a high five. While teach-
ston is filled with loud noises. Senior Makayla of a dog black while junior Jordan Moriarty
watches. Junior Casey Coughlon is organizing the various figurines and junior Victor Me-
jia is sweeping up. Senior Dylan Ostwald is
for a minute and then said, “I think I did good.” ing the students about making the concrete fig-
ures, Meyer is also trying to raise their self-es-
teem and make them confident in what they do. Working at Created in Johnston also gives the
working on his angel statue. Dennis Meyer,
students an opportunity to discover their strengths
to each student, instructing and giving advice.
skills they learn may develop into a passion or
owner of Created in Johnston, goes around Meyer volunteers his store and services to
help students in the Experience Based Ca-
and interests. Pattschull explained that the new a plan for what they will do after high school.
Holman’s favorite part of working at the store
reer Education class (EBCE). The EBCE is
is painting the statues. “Painting is all about us-
port become prepared for life after high school.
using your left,” Holman said. She teaches
designed to help kids in need of extra supAs part of the class, students are selected to work at a business that best suits their learn-
ing the right side of your brain. It’s easier than
some of her classmates how to paint too. The students work hard to make the stat-
ing and capability needs. Students also have
ues look nice for Meyer’s customers. “We
Created in Johnston was just added in August
said. Recently, the students were allowed
a say in what work they are most interested in.
to the dozens of local businesses that help the stu-
dents. “I saw how big a heart he had for the com-
munity,” Heath Pattschull said on hiring Meyer.
want this business to keep going,” Coughlon
to make and paint their own personal stat-
ues - a gift from Meyer for their hard work. At the end of the second semester the class
Pattschull is a work experience coordinator and
will stop going to Created in Johnston but Mey-
right focus and energy. People that care enough.”
next fall. He feels that although the students
teacher of the EBCE. “We needed people with the These past months, students have been work-
ing on a variety of activities such as answering the phone, cleaning around the store, and learning how to fill out a resume. They are also taught
er says he would consider volunteering again come from different backgrounds, they are work-
ing together to have a learning experience. “It’s almost like they were meant to come here.”
the long and important process of making the various concrete figures. This includes mold-
ing the concrete into different shapes, patching up cracks, sanding the statues smooth, and
finally painting them. “I always thought you just carved into a block of concrete,” Mejia said. While
the
students
work,
Meyer
gives
them advice and tries to push them to their ut-
most potential. “These kids need guidance and they need to be pushed,” Meyer said. “If you aren’t doing something right, he will
tell you,” Mary Ann Johnson said, a special
education associate that helps supervise. “He
is strong with them but helps them make decisions. He leaves a little humor behind too.” After patching his statue, Moriarty asked
Meyer, “How did I do?” Meyer replied, “Well,
(Top) Garret Vadillo shows junior Casey Coughlon how to cover up cracks on the newly made statues. Vadillo has worked at Created in Johnston for three months and helps with the program at times. “It’s fun to teach (the students) new things,” Vadillo said. (Middle) Senior Jordan Moriarty sands down an angel statue to make it smooth before painting. (Bottom) Senior Makayla Holman paints a statue with black spray paint. “I can get it done pretty easily,” she said. Photos by Paige Plaskitt/The Dragon
the b&w p.15
the b&w p.16
backpage
dec 2011
Students share their experiences of breaks, bumps, and bruises. compiled by: Sarah Margolin and Kristine Hayes
Chase Fiedler
Tree terror
The hunt for a baby opossum spurred senior Chase
Fiedler and his friends, Joe Faerrell and Jordan Doswell, to climb a tree and ended with stitches and a trip to the hospital.
Eigth graders at the time, Fiedler, Joe Farrell and
then-ninth grader Jordan Doswell were looking for a
inside my leg,” Fiedler said.
The stub of branch that protruded from the tree
went into Fiedler’s leg between the two calf bones. “I yelled a four-letter expletive, my friends thought I was joking so they kind of sauntered over.”
He was not very far off the ground and the other
baby opossum they saw in a tree earlier that day.
boys helped him get out. “Jordan lifted me off and
younger and getting a few cuts and bruises. For senior
his dad who rushed to see what happened. “My dad
Most kids remember climbing trees when they were
Chase Fiedler, his experience was a little different. “I
was hanging off the tree by my ankle,” Fiedler said, “I didn’t really feel it hurting right away.”
Fiedler broke off a branch leaving about a four-inch
stub sticking out. As he tried to jump to another branch the one he was standing on gave way and he fell.
After catching his bearings, Fielder reached down
to what he thought was just his pants hung up in the tree. “I felt my leg and realized that the tree was stuck
helped pull my leg off the tree,” Fiedler said. He called
got there in like five minutes, he had to be going like 60
mph,” he said. They went to the hospital where Fiedler
got 12 stitches, but was lucky he had no other injuries. The healing process, however, took about three months. “I can’t feel part of the left side of my foot,” he said pulling up his pant leg to show the scar. Now, he
has a scar, some numbness, and a great story to tell.
And they never did figure out what happened to the opossum.
Kristine Hayes/BW
Nick Siddens
In four years, kids go through a lot of
times he broke his nose was when he
bruises but it all heals over time. For Nick
it was healing. It is easy to re-break a
changes. In that time, they get cuts and Siddens, he got more than a few scrapes.
When Siddens was six-years-old he
was seven and both of them were while
nose while it is in the process of healing. The fifth and final time Siddens broke
ran into a wall and broke his nose for the
his nose was when he was 10 years
pital they put what looks like a bandage
[not] paying attention and got hit in the
first time. When Siddens went to the hoson his nose. The bandage is actually two
pieces of cardboard used to keep his nose in place. The doctors then broke Siddens
nose back and forth until they got it into the right position. “It hurt a lot.” Siddens said.
Just a month later, he broke it again.
Siddens and some of his friends were
messing around and wrestling. Before he knew it Siddens had another broken nose and had to go to the hospital again.“It was
more painful the second time. My nose had a giant crook in it and was slanted to the
right.” Siddens said. The third and fourth
old and playing street hockey. “I was
nose from the hockey puck,” Siddens
Wheel of fortune
Fifth time’s the charm?
Jessie Sandmann
Provided/Jessie Sandmann
Sandmann’s x-ray of her arm after the surgery. She had two however, this one was on the bone, the other was for the scar. The plate has come out now, but the screws will never be taken out.
With her bike chain falling off and the
members them calling her dad on the way
metal bar. The bar will help to make sure
Sandmann went flying over her bike into
the next day in the hospital, the doctors
grab [my nose] and pull, it will pop,” Sid-
bike early in the morning with her friend,
and forth.” The bar helped put Siddens
jured. Buising went door to door trying to
will have it in there forever. “I have a slit
someone and luckly, that person was a
dens said. “It was a fun year; I had black
The nurse called the ambulance and
said. When Siddens went to the hospital
again to get his nose fixed they put in a
front wheel locking up, senior Jessie
it does not move or break again. “If I
the ground. Sandmann was riding her
dens said. “It [is] bending the bar back
senior Anna Buising, before she was in-
nose back to its normal shape and he
find someone to help. Finally, she found
in my nose were they cut it open.” Sid-
nurse.
eyes for three months.”
helped Sandmann up. Sandmann only re-
to the hospital. When Sandmann woke up decided that she would need surgery to fix
her arm. “Apparently I blocked my face in-
stead of putting my hands out to break the fall,” Sandmann said. In her first surgery Sandmann got a plate and two screws put
in. The second was from a plastic surgeon to fix the scar. “We have the plate at my
house,” Sandmann said, “My dad wants to make [the plate] into a necklace.”