February 2012

& BW

Johnston alum runs for state house Walgreens needs to change

20 YEARS

Board member bakes

five eleven

sixteen

the black and white

Take a look at past issues for the B&W anniversary

eight/nine

feb. 2012. volume 20 issue 6. 5152780449. 6501 NW 62nd ave. johnston. iowa

News

Double Truck

3

8/9 Celebrating 20 years

Photo essay

Relive the past month through photos

13

Youth for stricter drinking laws

5

Speed cameras/Stuco updates District response to food allergies Alum runs for state legislature

How one student took on underage drinking

Board member’s baked goods

Read up on Jill Morrill’s legendary pastries

Piano playing savant

Find your new favorite restaurant Tea time in Des Moines

Tim Gerzema’s amazing ability

Editorial 10

14

One-to-one initiative

Why we shouldn’t all have laptops

Experts discuss awareness, grief PE heart monitor system

Ankeny’s trailblazing grading initiative

Preventable injuries

Walgreens discrimination Forcing students to wait is unfair

Backpage

Sports

Websites watching you

7

Credibility crisis In plain sight/Back to Besic

What websites really know about you

Boys swimming places third at state 12 CIML gets restructured

Feature

15

Opinion 11

February 2012

15

The Black & White: then and now

4

6

the black and white

in this issue...

13

3

16

Indoor alternatives

What to do with the winter blues

STAFF EDITORS

SUB-EDITORS

Zach Winjum

news/copy

Mirza Besic

STAFF WRITERS Ashley Enger

Zach Peterson

Paige Cramer

Kenzie Foldes

Anne Rogers

co-design

Kristine Hayes

Taylor Joens

Sarah Ross

Evan Culbert

Mallorie Goodale Sarah Margolin

editor-in-chief

Taylor Mithelman co-design

Lauren Coffey managing

Ian Dunshee photo

backpage opinion

Ryan McGrew Monica Gagne

sports

Wes Monroe

Laura Scieszinski

Hannah Soyer

Ben Parsons

Zoe Wilson

feature

Scott Syroka doubletruck

Ashley Shay

ILLUSTRATOR Lisa VanWiel

On the cover: complied by Evan Culbert

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

the b&wp.3

feb 2012

February In Photos

Ian Dunshee/BW

Ian Dunshee/BW

1 Ian Dunshee/BW

Zach Winjum/BW

2 3 4

5 1

Seniors Michael Murdock and Zhu Duan laugh as they complete a snowman in front of the high school. The ELP class made several snow sculptures in the same area, including other snowmen and a bust of Elvis.

Zoe WIlson/BW

Zoe Wilson/BW

2

Staff and Students line up outside of the cafeteria for Johnston’s Big Give Pancake Breakfast. Tickets were purchased in exchange for unlimited pancakes, milk, and juice, courtesy of the Johnston Kiwanis Club, and along with donations the event raised $773.28 total.

Ian Dunshee/BW

3

Freshman Scott Magnani and sophomore Alexander Ritchie compete in a fencing duel. The fencing club meets every Wednesday after school in the multi-purpose room to hone their skills.

4

First graders James Anderson and Audrey Renaud share candy and other gifts on Valentines Day at Wallace Elementary. Each class celebrated the holiday in similar fashion toward the end of the day before students were sent home.

5

The Johnston varsity dance team steps into a kick line during the fatherdaughter dance at the basketball game Tuesday Feb. 14. The team began practicing the routine well before Feb. and then taught their dads the dance only the week after the Superbowl.

news Students support underage drinking bill the b&w p.4

feb 2012

Anamosa student lobbies bill that would increase underage drinking penalties words & layout

Jensen said.

Paige Cramer

In Polk County during 2011, there were

The Iowa House introduced an exten-

300 juvenile alcohol-related charges as

sion to the House File 396 that would

well as 23 individuals that received OWI’s

make changes to current drinking laws.

that were under the age of 18. In the high

As the bill is now, it is only possible to

school during the 2010-2011 school year

charge a minor with possession of alcohol.

there were six students charged with con-

The extension of the law would make it

sumption at school or a school sanction,

so that anyone over the age of 21 can not

and one student already this school year.

permit a minor to consume or possess an

At school, a school event or sanction,

alcoholic beverage on their property.

the penalties for drinking is a minimum out

The bill, House File 396, was intro-

of school three day suspension, criminal

duced in January by Representative Rob-

charge, and a good conduct violation. If

ert Lee Hein. Currently, the bill states it to

not at a school event, a student is charged

be illegal only if a minor has possession

with a good conduct violation.

of the alcohol. With this change, it would

Jensen explained that the best way

make it illegal for a minor to consume al-

to prevent underage drinking is getting the

cohol as well.

Tyler Jeffrey, a sophomore at Anamosa

Provided/Shannon Appleby from 3ChipMedia.com

The Underage Drinking Prevention Day on

Tyler Jeffrey speaks at Day on the Hill in support of a new extension to the House File 396. If passed the extension would increase penalties for adults that provide alcohol to minors.

High School, spoke in support of the bill at a Hill on Jan. 30.

Jeffrey is the leader of his school’s

drugs and alcohol group and knows first hand the effects of underage drinking. “I

have seen many things happen to people and I’m sick of people ruining their careers,” Jeffrey said.

Day on a Hill was an event where stu-

dents toured the Capitol in Des Moines,

learned about legislative pieces and attended a press conference about the extension to House File 396.

For Jeffrey, it was his first time lobby-

ing the bill. He had to write a speech, get it looked over by his School Drug and Al-

cohol group advisor, then prepare to actually give it. Jessica Jensen, the School

Resource Officer, sees the problem there is with underage drinking and agrees that something to be done about it. “Alcohol abuse by minors is a significant problem,”

State looks to ban speed cameras

words & layout Anne Rogers

Iowa House Bill 2048 will be debated on

the House floor sometime this legislative

session. If passed, the bill will ban traffic cameras on Iowa’s streets and intersections.

Representative

Walt

Rogers

spon-

sored the bill. He believes the cameras are

policeman, agreed with that, along with the money factor. “I don’t like speed cameras.

ernment to be trying to generate revenue

on behalf of it's citizens,” Wellman said.

Senior Taylor Kavaya has gotten four

an article in “The Des Moines Register.”

making a turn at the intersection of Hickman

and silent encroachments,” according to Traffic cameras record a driver vio-

lating traffic laws for speeding or run-

ning a red light. Depending on how fast

drivers are going, and where the picture was taken, the ticket could cost

$100 or more. Tickets from cameras are

the same fine as a ticket from police.

Rogers also said the cameras are in

violation of creeping infringement on per-

sonal liberty. Chris Wellman, Des Moines

one from a speed camera. Kavaya was and 100th Street. She received the ticket in

the mail a couple weeks later, and it was

Interstate 235 currently uses speed cameras. If this legislation passes, they will be removed. sidering legislation to ban the use of traf-

is registered under, but I still had to pay it,”

it would be prudent for any community

Kavaya said. “I don’t like it, my dad doesn’t

like it, and it’s basically a money maker.”

Mayor Paula Dierenfeld does not think

Johnston will get speed cameras any

time soon. “The Iowa Legislature is con-

parents more accountable when letting

their kids drink, “Almost never are parents OK with their kids drinking,” Jensen said.

According to Jeffrey, “At this point, all

they have done is heard about it (the bill).”

He is hoping that by next year the bill will be passed so that fewer teenagers will be able to get their hands on alcohol. “It will

hold the adults accountable and so the kids won’t be getting it,” Jeffrey said.

Student council updates upcoming events the details Big Give event Johnston’s Got Talent @ 7 p.m. in the JMS Auditorium to beat cancer

27 School board meeting

$100. “The ticket was actually made out to my dad because it goes to the person the car

though the extension to the Bill will hold

27 Final Johnston’s The entire com-

but I think it's a little overboard for the gov-

speeding tickets, but she has only gotten

creating awareness,” Jensen said. Even

february

Studies indicate they have improved safety,

“Slowly taking away freedoms by gradual

information out there. “A lot of it is about

fic cameras,” Dierenfeld said. “I believe considering the use of traffic cameras

to wait until after the issue is resolved by the Iowa Legislature; otherwise, they may

find they have spent precious taxpayers’ dollars on cameras they cannot use.”

munity is invited to come watch 15+ acts, Synergy, Innovation, and JHS Chamber Choir.

Tickets $5 each — available at the door or in advance from Accounting Office.

6 p.m. at the Administrative Resource Center.v

march 12 School board meeting

If you weren’t in attendance at Johnston’s Got Talent, you can find out the grand total from JBG here. 6 p.m. at the Administrative Resource Center.

news

the b&w p.5

feb 2012

School reacts to food allergies Nutrition staff switches from peanut to sunflower seed butter

flower seeds, while the Smuckers Uncrustables have been removed during lunch but are still available at breakfast.

Although these measures have been taken to ensure

student safety in the cafeteria, the nurse’s office and the classroom, staff is aware of the fact that students can bring

words Charles Fiedler

their own food to school.

In the cafeteria, after breakfast and between lunches,

The school cafeteria removed all peanut butter products

the staff thoroughly wipes off every table, and cleans up

from the lunch menu due to food allergies this year.

Three students in the high school have peanut allergies,

any large masses of food that are left on the floor.

Due to these allergies, the school has taken certain

nurse’s office where they have a procedure worked out

with the student and their family,” Director of Nutrition

tin,” nurse Susan Krebs said, “An antihistamine (adrenaline

and identifies the foods that could cause a reaction. Once

action, an epipen is used, we call 911, and the student is

In the event of a reaction, the students may go to the

one of which is dangerously allergic.

precautions to ensure their safety. “We work one-on-one

ahead of time. “We usually start with something like Clari-

Staff LaRae Doll said. The staff goes through the menu

shot for the immune system). In the case of a serious re-

those calendar dates are marked, the nutrition staff works with the family to decide whether to have the student bring their own lunch or to have the school make one specific en-

trée for the student. “We’re not peanut free. We’re peanut-

Nutrition staff member Rada Radosevic cleans the lunch tables after all three lunch periods.

This protects against potential allergens.

aware,” Doll said.

peanut butter as dip and the Smuckers Uncrustables, pea-

school lunches include the celery sticks that come with

with SunButter, an imitation peanut butter made from sun-

The peanut-product foods that were removed from

nut butter and jelly sandwiches. These have been replaced

Morgan Coffey ‘14

Teachers are aware of a student’s allergies via Infinite

Campus. “On the student’s profile, there is a small notifica-

tion next to their names that states that the student has a food allergy,” principal Brent Riessen said.

In the end, the school wants to take every measure pos-

sible to ensure every student’s safety.

Craig O’Keefe ‘14

Allergic to: all nuts, eggs, soy, milk, shellfish Common misconception: In movies a little girl’s face will swell up, it doesn’t look like that. My throat swells up on the inside, not the outside.

Do people treat you differently?: Kindergarten through fifth grade I was allergic to more than I am now. I was kind of the odd one out, I had to sit at a different table.

Allergic to: Wheat Food he misses the most: Fazoli’s fettuchini alfredo. I wish I could eat the Snickerdoodle ice cream from Orange Leaf, too.

What do you eat at school: I mostly eat salads and yogurt.

What Is the most embarrassing thing: When I go to Jimmy Johns, I have to make them wipe off the counters and use clean knives.

Graduate runs for house words Wes Monroe

transported to the hospital.”

Alum runs for Iowa 39 district as a state representative

contributor to the college newspaper.”

to create an environment in this community

donations to support functions of his candi-

is running for State Representative from

fore making the decision to enter the 2012

make my constituents lives a little easier in

hard to ask people to donate some of their

Highfill has had a

rent state representative, I sought counsel

Jake Highfill, who graduated in 2008,

the new 39 District.

strong passion for politics

since

election. “After being encouraged by a curfrom some of my closest family and friends

he

before deciding a few months later that this

was young and has

is something that I had to do,” Highfill said.

developed his lib-

Highfill is running as a Republican on a

ertarian views over

the past couple of

years. “My senior

Highfill turned to others for advice be-

year government class really confirmed my love for our political system,” Highfill said. “My love of politics has stuck with me throughout my college career, during which

I’ve played an active role in campus and local politics, while also being a regular op-ed

any capacity within my jurisdiction,” Highfill

said. “This of course means that the concerns and needs of the community will always be at the forefront of every decision I make at the state house.”

ment to better work for the people.

Highfill would like to see more educa-

tional funding for Johnston and will strive

ensure that folks keep the money that they earned,” Highfill said.

If Highfill defeats incumbent Erik Hel-

he is successful in the general election, he

campaigning and hosting political events.

ing the essential functions of the govern-

representative it is a key priority of mine to

as social media, phone calls, door-to-door

to fund schools, build roads, support the

He believes that this can be done by direct-

hard earned dollars, because as a state

land in the primary on June 5, he would run

turned to a wide variety of resources such

military and deliver the mail,” Highfill said.

dacy most difficult. “For me personally, it is

To get his message out, Highfill has

libertarian platform. “I believe the govern-

ment has very limiting roles in that it needs Provided/Jake Highfill

that businesses find practical. “I want to

“In essence it is a grass roots campaign

that relies on the support of my family and

friends to further my message,” Highfill said.

Of all the elements needed to run a suc-

cessful campaign, Highfill finds asking for

in the general election held in November. If would be sworn to serve a two-year term.

He would be involved in the session for ap-

proximately 100 days of the year, voting on issues of importance to Iowans. “The rest

of the year is when I get to see the legisla-

tion at work and get to become a more integral part of this community,” Highfill said.

Three cheese burger

3.

Getting bored of the usual places to eat? Try some of these undercover eateries that will soon find a place in words Taylor Joens your stomach.

offers the same type of food but in a more professional en-

vironment. The option to enjoy favorite dishes, such as the popular orange chicken or sesame chicken, is offered at

Mandarin Grill, but a sushi bar allows you a whole other range of choices to choose from. From the classic Califor-

nia Roll to something as intriguing as the Captain Crunch

words & layout

Roll, Mandarin Grill provides a wider variety of food all in a more appropriate sit down dinner sight.

Kenzie Foldes/BW

200 Gateway Dr, Grimes, IA, 50111

Tartine

Panera Bread is known for its café-like menu that many

of us have come to love. Likewise, Tartine, located at 12695

University Avenue, Clive, is a French bakery that provides

bakery-like comfort but with an extra twist. The menu may look intimidating at first sight, with French words and de-

scriptions that some may find difficult to even pronounce, but employees are eager to make the Tartine experience

as enjoyable as possible. Head chef Mike Holman takes the time to check in on customers as they dine and offer

advice to any newcomers. With food items like tartines (open-faced, grilled sandwiches), quiche (pie crust pastries

Kenzie Foldes

Fat Boyz Saloon

3.

try

2.

Legends

12695 University Ave, Clive, IA, 50325

terial. On the other hand Mandarin Grill, located in Clive,

The quest for a good burger is a never ending. Legends

has provided an all-American grill that offers the good stuff; burgers, fries, and everything in between. But what Leg-

ends lacks is a sense of community. Fat Boyz Saloon, locally owned by Tim and Cindy Crank do just that. Regulars

If you like

Kenzie Foldes/BW

Like that?

Try this.

Tsing Tsao offers a well known and loved variety of

it is evident that the environment is not “date night” ma-

If you like

2.

Honey ham & brie tartine, side salad with house dressing

128th Street Clive, IA, 50325

Mandarin Grill

of the most popular Chinese restaurants around the area,

Panera try

Kenzie Foldes/BW

1.

Americanized, fast food Chinese. Although this may be one

If you like

Orange Chicken with fried rice

1.

review

feb 2012 Tsing Tsao try

the b&w p.6

file in and casually greet one another and employees. The

atmosphere is laid back and welcoming; the perfect combination for a sit down dinner. Their menu consists of what

you would typically think of when you hear “all-American grill”, but Fat Boyz customizes every dish. Some items in-

with cheese-like fillings), and beignets (deep fried pastries),

clude their three-cheese burger (a combination of Swiss,

still enjoying the classics such as paninis and salads. An

lic Parmesan sourdough bread) and buffalo chicken wrap

ner menus combine American cuisine with French flavors.

jalapeno cheddar flour tortilla) that turns customers into

you have the opportunity to try something different while

Mozzarella, and American cheese swerved on grilled gar-

all day breakfast menu is delicious, and lunch and din-

(tossed in buffalo sauce with toppings and rolled up in a

Freshly baked pastries are a perfect way to end any meal.

regulars.

A good cup of tea words & layout

Exquisite smells. Gentle music. The atmosphere of Gong Fu tea is one of relaxation and

Ben Parsons

its fruitiness helps to mask any bitterness. And for

those who like things of the minty variety, Moroccan

Tea types All of the different types of tea can be confusing.

Here’s a look at some of the more common varieties.

Green: Low in caffeine and high in antioxi-

dants, this tea is a fantastically healthy option.

Mint would be an excellent choice.

Gong Fu has several options that flavor it with different

favorite joint in the Des Moines area. With

shell out the money needed to enjoy an afternoon

rieties of tea.

every time I go to Gong Fu proves a new

ies. Ten dollars will get you three different pots of

simplicity. However, the atmosphere is only one of the reasons that Gong Fu is my

over 150 varieties of tea to choose from, experience.

For burgeoning tea connois-

seurs there are a few teas that

are particularly intriguing.

Sweet Matcha, a

milk-based tea, has a less bitter taste and

more creamy texture.

Red Fruit Melange

has a stronger, more traditional taste, but

With today’s tough economy, it can be hard to

downtown. Gong Fu helps to dispel these anxiet-

tea, each with four cups of a brew of your choosing.

fruits. The taste tends to be lighter than other, richer va-

Black:

This is what most people envision

when they think about tea. It has more caffeine

Considering how tough it is to drink twelve cups of

than green teas, so this should be a good choice if you’re

cheap, relaxing date.

stronger, and may be more bitter.

anything, one can even bring a friend, or make it a The only complaint I can level against Gong Fu

are the hours. Since the place closes at 6 p.m.,

it can be difficult to get there soon enough after

looking for a pick-me-up. The flavor is correspondingly

Herbal: Fragrant and brewed with herbs, fruits, and flowers, herbal teas aren’t really teas in the

school to actually enjoy some quality time there.

first place. Since most herbal teas are brewed without tea

the Des Moines area to go for a unique tea-tasting

and delicious aromas make this a refreshing and invigorat-

Still, Gong Fu is, without a doubt, the best place in

leaves, they’re naturally caffeine-free. Still, the light flavors

experience.

ing variety.

sports

feb 2012

the b&w p.7

Swim team places third at State More diverse varsity helps swimmers achieve highest ranking in school history

words & layout Sarah Margolin

The boys’ swim team earned third place

each of the boys will be swimming. “ Fo-

the best finish in school history. The team

learn how to swim things better,” Clark

at the state meet in Marshalltown Feb. 11,

cusing on specialization helped people

qualified in all 11 state events after placing

said. “Sprinters have different things they

second at districts.

need to work on versus a distance swim-

Out of 64 high school swimmers, 16

mer.”

were on varsity. This was smaller than past

Swimmers also tapered or cut down on

years because the swimmers on varsity

the distance they swim and listened to mo-

rather than specializing in one event. “I

thought,” junior Dylan Johnson said. “It is

were able to swim a wider range of events

tivational tapes. “(Swimming) takes a lot of

think the diversity and the willingness to do

mainly mental not just physical.”

what our team needed helped a lot,” coach

Teammates supporting each other is

Shari Walling said. “(We have) non-selfish

another key part to doing well in State.

to do what our team needed.”

rell, junior Sam Perington, junior Ethan

boys able to swim a lot of different events

“Me and five other people (senior Joe Far-

Muscatine earned the state champion-

DeGroot, sophomore Carter Mehls, and

ship scoring 177.5 points. Dowling Catho-

freshman Ashton Cracraft) left right after

Provided/Bob Culbert school on Friday to set up our tent in Mar-

lic earned 135 and Johnston 127.5.

Joe Farrel swims the 100 meter butterfly at the senior night meet at Johnston against Newton on Thursday Jan. 12. The boys’ swim team season, Walling tried to replicate the pool won the meet with 126-44.

In preparing for the latter part of the

conditions at Roosevelt, where districts

way when they swim in a meet with lane

waves than Summit’s pool. “Summit pool

better,” Walling said.

bulence in water,” Walling said. “The rea-

had the boys swim underwater widths at

waves,” sophomore Alex Clark said. “With-

wise the whole time. “(Swimming widths)

To create more waves, Walling de-

the swimmers become faster and stronger

were held. These two pools produce more is a faster pool, we have to get use to tur-

ropes their strokes will be stronger and Along with fewer lane ropes, Walling

son behind the lane ropes is to stop the

the beginning of practice instead of length-

out the ropes there were a lot more.”

helps to work turns and starts, and helps

creased the amount of lane ropes. “That

underwater,” Walling said.

Being stronger underwater can play

a big part during a race. When a swim-

mer dives off the block they have a certain amount of time that they can stay in a

streamline position underwater. When you are underwater you move faster in the wa-

ter, so the longer you can stay under the better.

The practices for the swimmers were

individualized depending on what events

CIML realignment words & layout Mallorie Goodale & Kenzie Foldes The Central Iowa Metropoli-

tan League (CIML) is going to be restructured beginning next fall.

“Why it came about was,

with Ankeny going to two high schools in the fall of 2013, it

added an additional school to

our league which made 19,” Athletic Director Gary Ross said.

Coaches’ comments Steve Smith - Boys’ golf

Aaron Tecklenburg - Wrestling

“The last three state champions are now in our conference and all of the schools are generally represented at the state event. I believe it will push us to get better as we move forward.”

“I wish more coaches could have had some input. I haven’t spoken with one wrestling coach who’s really supporting the new structure, but I think most people involved are taking the wait and see approach.”

Vicki Borich - Bowling/girls’ golf “My concern is with all-conference awards for athletes. This may limit the number of students who are actually chosen as “all-conference.”’

Todd Merical - Softball “It will be a very tough conference.

Personally, I will miss playing some of our current conference teams on a regular basis.”

shallltown and we were second in line to get into state,” junior Hayden Woods said.

“We camped out that night in negative 10

degree weather and grilled out on a mini grill. It was worth it because we saved a spot for the rest of the parents to get a good view of the team.”

“It’s really weird,” Ross said. “I haven’t

had an afternoon off since August. (Swimming) has been a really big part of my life

and to end it on a meet like that is pretty special.”

Conference divisions Central Iowa Metro Football divisions Conference Conference Western

Dowling Johnston Urbandale WDM Valley

Northern

Ames Fort Dodge Marshalltown Mason City

Eastern

DM East DM Hoover DM Lincoln DM North DM Roosevelt Ottumwa Indianola

Ankeny Ankeny Centennial Southeast Polk Waukee

Division 1

Council BluffsJefferson DM Lincoln Indainola SC East Urbandale Valley

Division 2 Ankeny Johnston SC North Fort Dodge DM North Ames

Division 3

Mason City Marshalltown Dowling Ottumwa DM Hoover Ankeny Centennial

Division 4

CB Lincoln DM East DM Roosevelt SC West SE Polk Waukee

the b&w p.8&9

20YEARS Why we named it JHS in Black & White

Before or after school, 62nd Ave. is chaotic. Stu-

high school parking lot. With approximately 1,110 students trying to get out, it is not surprising that it

stories important first to the students, and second to the

took place.

community. This phrase, “in black & white,” reflects the

It is great that they are going to widen the street

unique group of students with differing opinions and ideas.

now but it would have been better if it was done last

summer. It’s not surprising that accidents haven’t

Looking back: Despite what many

happened more often.

think, it is not because of the color.

These five gentlemen have also formed

a musical group named “Harry, Harry, and the Harry’s.” The band recently recorded

their first melody, Groove your Booty, which was written by percussionist and

Prom King Chris Hanner. The group’s sec-

1992

report cards, answer a couple of questions about

a three-car pileup occurred directly in front of the

our newspaper is not a tabloid. We write and print factual

response, “They dig it.”

ginning. It does not take 19 minutes to pass out

are more likely to happen. On Thursday, Sept. 2,

it is, in black and white.” “In black & white” also means that

ing thy butt.” What do the girls say? May’s

The idea of homeroom is doomed from the be-

Not only that, but with all the rushing, accidents

Everything we print can be proven by the expression, “There

the essence of wiggling thy hips and shak-

it, another dreaded session of homeroom.

the crosswalk to the parking lot.

print is black. What you read in our paper is straight forward.

May defines his 1970’s passion, “Disco is

that yet another Tuesday has rolled around and with

leviated and it will not take five minutes to get from

Those words mean simply that the paper is white and the

are all chronic disco addicts. Senior Aaron

The bell rings at 9:27 a.m. reminding students

With the widening, the clamoring traffic will be al-

JHS In Black & White is not biased to race, creed, or sex.

these five men have in common? They

Staff editorial, excerpt published Dec. 2001

dents who drive are in a hurry coming and going.

less, it describes our staff, style, and our paper...

Josh Doster, Chris Hanner, Aaron May,

compiled by Scott Syroka and Evan Culbert

Put forth effort or get rid of useless class

Staff editorial, excerpt published Sept. 1999

JHS In Black & White. It ‘s an unusual title, but none-the-

Disco fever: the epidemic at JHS

As we pass the twentieth anniversary of The Black & White’s existence, we take a look back and see how times have changed (and how they have stayed the same). Some things like homeroom/advisory are still being decried as invaluable in their current state, while other things such as getting student representation on our school board just may be on their way. Join us as we examine excerpts from the past two decades.

Chaos on 62nd coming to an end Homeroom wastes time

By Heather Henning, excerpt published Dec 19, 1991

Jason Pace, and Matt Tetzloff – what do

anniversary

feb 2012

photo/Ian Dunshee

Looking back: The chaos never came to an end.

The widening continues.

scheduling or talk about goals. It takes about 10 minutes and the remainder of the time is spent sitting around.

Principal Bruce Hukee said homeroom is a

chance for students to receive information and make connections with their teachers. Granted, information is passed along, but it’s difficult to make

connections with the teacher when often times they

have nothing in common. It’s even harder when the only connections students have with each other is

By Tara Thieleke, excerpt published May 26, 1993

ond work is both written and performed by Jason Pace and is entitled Work it like a

Rib....While “Harry, Harry, and the Harry’s” is most likely the first disco band in JHS

history, that isn’t the only barrier they plan to break. The group has considered be-

coming the first a capella disco band ever.

Possibly “Harry, Harry, and the Harry’s” will perform at next year’s WHO sponsored leisure suit convention.

Yes, these boys dance, sing, eat, sleep,

and dream disco. They can’t seem to get

enough. Why? Hanner (also known as

Tony among the Harry’s) replied, “I love

that their last names start with the same letter.

For homeroom to succeed, the school needs to

disco so much because of the funny feel-

get off the fence. Either go all out and hire someone

ing my loins encounter while the beat and

that is just in charge of homeroom or just give up the

the really juicy guitar squirts penetrate my

idea that homeroom makes connection, admit that

aura and force me to groove my soul.”

its purpose is to pass out papers, and have it every

“Disco is what makes the world go

other week to eliminate the dreaded dead space.

round,” said Doster (A.K.A. Bubba).

Homeroom, the way it is now, is a waste of time for

Jason Pace (known as Double J to his

teachers and students alike. The school needs to

harry friends) said, “To me disco is divine.

stop riding the fence if they want homeroom to

Disco is my greatest priority next to food,

really succeed.

sleep, and breathing. It is an obvious solution to world peace. I mean if the whole world shook its funky booty to one uniform

groove, we’d love again, man. Can you dig it? I knew that you could baby.”

precursor Looking back: Disco...the to grinding.

2002

Looking back: The name may be changed, but the problems still remain today.

Student representative necessary for school board to reflect student interests Staff editorial, excerpt published Nov. 2005 The phrase “school board” often conjures an im-

age in the minds of students of an elite bureaucratic group of men and women that ominously rule over

every aspect of their academic lives. Most of that

Illustration/Lisa VanWiel

image, though, is untrue. This board, however, is not directly accountable to the students whose lives it controls.

Before espousing cries of “no legislation without

representation,” it should probably be established that ours is not the only school board across the nation that fails to reflect student interests by not having a voting student liaison.

According to a survey by the National School

Board Association (NSBA), only nine [states] failed to have a statutory mention of student school board members. One of those nine is Iowa.

As it stands now, the only way for an Iowa stu-

dent to join the school board is for that student to be 18 and elected through the standard channels,

like all other at- large members of the school board.

SEP senior Andrew McGrean, beating his opponent by 157 votes on Sept. 13, took exactly this route to become a member of the SEP board.

Although the law does not require (or even men-

tion) under 18 student representatives, some Iowa

school boards allow non-voting student members,

according to the NSBA. Although a step in the right direction, this is not enough to satisfy the need for student representation.

State legislators and local school board mem-

bers must team together to enact policies that pro-

vide for a voting student representative to the board.

Looking back: More than half a decade later, we may finally be making some progress on this issue.

2012

the b&w p.10

editorial

feb 2012

1:1 program problematic The school district is currently researching a 1:1 (one to

The school board seems to have hopes that a 1:1 could prove

would be given either a laptop or an iPad, and it will be used all

However, studies suggest (including one in the “Des Moines

one) program. If instituted, every student in the high school

beneficial by providing another resource.

day, in essentially every class. As the generation attached to

Register”) that learning is not enhanced or hindered based

for this. However, more does not always mean better.

reading a book, doing an online activity, or watching a video,

our cell phones and iPods, one might expect us to be excited

Currently, much about this plan is unknown. Besides not

knowing for sure that there will be a 1:1, most of the details are

on the medium it is put across. What this means is whether learning is not done better just because it is online.

Although some may argue that this program will enhance

also still fuzzy. Whether to get iPads or laptops is unknown. The

learning, Government teacher Jeremy Yenger has some

from is unknown. The usefulness of the program is unknown.

Yenger said. “There is no evidence that adding a piece of

total cost of the program is unknown. Where funds would come Many classes have no need for computers, and most

of those that do on occasion get by with using the labs and the LMC. Electives, like psychology or money management,

spend most of the time learning out of the book, or from the occasional informational video. For those classes, the entire

curriculum would need to be changed to allow usage of the

doubts. “I have serious questions about the 1:1 initiative,” technology will benefit students, according to a study published in the ‘Des Moines Register.’” Yenger went on to detail many

of the potential educational problems that would arise if we

switched to a 1:1. “It sounds like entertainment, and not learning,” Yenger said.

There are countless logistical problems as well. Batteries do

new hardware, lest it not be used at all. And if it isn’t being

not have life spans long enough to last all day without charging,

Classes that have higher computer needs than just a word

software would need frequent updating, and the huge sums

used, then why even bother having them?

processor would still use labs. There are certain complex and expensive programs found only on certain computers in the school. Laptops would likely not be able to operate the same

especially as they get older and stop holding a charge. The

of money the school has spent recently on updating computer labs would be redundant.

There also is no class that teaches how to best use

number of program that the lab computers can. Laptops might

computers as a resource. Teaching students how to maximize

computers, but it, like everything else with the 1:1, is unclear.

a real possibility. Otherwise, computers will likely pose as a

still be given to classes that generally spend all their time on Ann Wiley, instructional technology coordinator, hopes that

we will be on a 1:1 by as early as January 2014. She and her

their efficiency while plugged in should be a priority if a 1:1 is distraction to learning.

Ultimately, there is too much that is uncertain to be seriously

team of researchers have visited multiple schools across Iowa

considering this program. Considering the joint problems of

culture in the school has been all about learning.” Wiley said.

should be scrapped, or at the very least, delayed.

to ascertain the benefits of a 1:1 program. “(On my visits), the

unknown cost, funding, and benefit to students, this program

The editorial board votes on the opinion behind the editorial. A simple majority is needed to pass. This month’s vote was 7-6.

opinion

feb 2012

the b&w p.11

Walgreens discriminates against students words & layout Zach Winjum Racial discrimination is basically dead,

gays can legally marry in Iowa, and the disabled have more accommodations than

ensure a safe and comfortable atmosphere for all of our customers at the store.”

I did not realize that students were a

they ever have had before. We have made

threat to customer’s safety. And waiting at

tion, but some businesses still do it, against

students to finish shopping is all but com-

a lot of progress in regards to discriminaus.

About four years ago, the Walgreens on

the corner of Merle Hay Road and 62nd Av-

enue implemented a policy that only allows four unaccompanied students or children to

shop at one time. If more than four unsupervised students are in the store, they ask the rest to wait at the front of the store until the others are finished shopping.

While this may sound like no big deal, it

completely discriminates against one group

of people on the basis of age. As students we should not support a business that sets

different shopping rules for those that attend school, and the rest of the community.

“I think it sends a message that they don’t trust us,” Eighth grader Jake Page said.

“It’s unfair to punish everyone.”

Walgreens corporate was contacted

on several occasions, however media re-

lations specialist Robert Elfinger only responded by sending a voice mail with this

quote, “(the policy was implemented) It is to

the front of the store for a certain number of fortable. Perhaps a better solution to en-

sure everyone’s safety and comfort would

be to allow everyone to shop there regardless of age.

While many students are told to wait in

front, senior Chelsea Elming has not been

Zach Winjum/BW

four kids can be in there because most of

Students buy snacks from Walgreens after basketball practice. The store policy only allows four unsupervised students to shop at one time.

asked to wait. “I think it is stupid that only the students won’t do anything bad,” El-

spend money there.

school, but there are other options. Dairy

It is amazing that in 2012 there are still

ness that does not appreciate us. Perhaps

Students should promote a business that

sign were to read no more than four of a

they have always been told to follow the

at a time, Walgreens would face serious

have been rules, and if students chose not

against discrimination and inequality over

tected class, it is legal. This is not a call for

some students it probably doesn’t even oc-

business next to the school still practices

the sign itself is that students continue to

the store and let the employees know that

ming said. “I still shop here anyways. It doesn’t make a difference for me.”

As students we should not support a busi-

business that blatantly discriminate. If the

some students continue to wait because

specific race or ethnic group in the store

rules. Ever since elementary school there

lawsuits, but since students are not a pro-

to follow them, they would be punished. To

legal action, but what is more irritating than

cur to them that they could just walk out of

wait out front to shop. Walgreens is basi-

their policy is no way to treat customers.

it does not trust them, and yet many still

still go to Walgreens is its proximity to the

cally telling students to their faces that

Another probable reason that students

Queen and Casey’s are both fairly close.

appreciates their money rather than a business that looks at it as a nuisance.

Martin Luther King Jr. led a crusade

50 years ago. Yet, here we are and the what King was opposed to. The solution is the same as it was during the Montgomery

bus boycotts. Refuse Walgreens business.

Maybe then, they will learn that discrimination is not okay, even against the youth.

Whatever sites used, the information compiled about

my dad was interesting. Even though he does not have a Facebook, Spokeo correctly knew, weirdly enough, that he

words & layout Monica Gagne

They’re Watching You

Social networks provide information to websites about users.

travels a lot and likes to cook.

Similar to Spokeo, One Riot is another web Site that

uses personal information to sell ad spaces to places like P.F. Chang’s and other businesses. These companies go

through sites like Facebook and Twitter to advertise to certain audiences. It places all online users into what they call

“geo-locations” so as to match people’s interests with what businesses sell. Sites like this research the patterns and

It never occurred to me that what someone posts on

lic information, but usually it takes more searching to find.

percentages that people demonstrate online. For example,

public information, until I discovered the Web site Spokeo.

religion, and relationship status’. Spokeo uses sites like

more then any age of men. This geo-location will tend to

Facebook or Google searches online can be considered This crazy site sounds more like a new Japanese anime show than stalker central. The site is used to collect various

knowledge on specific people. As long as one knows the

It also gives out not-so-public information about hobbies,

40 year-old women tend to follow @joshgroban on Twitter

Google, Facebook, Twitter and other social networks and

get more concert ads and Josh Groban website pictures.

compiles the information into one creepy page.

Sites like One Riot note what all members of online so-

Now, it’s not that I hate that this information is public, it’s

cial networks tweet, post, search, and what not. They then

omniscient sites like Spokeo should be banned or at least

words used and common information between users. This

vide to anyone. Before information like this was available

book profile account, I’m pretty sure they never mentioned

partment, real estate agent, or city hall to get it. Spokeo’s

ed it to be. Accurate or not the sites are consulted by jobs,

an individual has signed up for.

cyber-life. So watch out, they’re watching you.

individual’s current address, a compilation of the searched

that I do not like how it’s all compiled together. Disturbing,

place all actions into geo-locations based on the action and

The home page of Spokeo allows anyone to conduct a

censored online for what sorts of information they can pro-

sort of “watching” should be illegal. When I got my Face-

online to anyone, a person might have to visit a police de-

anything about my information being public unless I want-

website says it gather stats from over 50 online sites that

insurance, and schools to learn more about you by your

person’s public information becomes available.

search on any individual. This service is free and directs the person to a page that gives information like their full

name, address, a picture of their street, directions to the current address, the estimate of the price of their current home and what sort of building it is. This is mostly pub-

the b&w p.12

opinion

feb 2012

We are not credible words & layout

RJ McGrew

In early May of 2011, the United States

sand Your dumb. s ei castl

celebrated as President Obama revealed

to the nation that Osama bin Laden, the

exactly we can blame for getting us here. What

re You’ . b m u d

mood was hopeful and if nothing else, relieved. I myself felt a wave of contentment

fascinates me is how everyone has an opinion

on the economy and how it might be best fixed, but almost nobody has taken economics.

in knowing that as a nation we could sleep

Nearly

that much more soundly.

my peers. I scrolled lazily past the status-

beneficial for this country to kill Obama instead of Osama.

I struggled with this for the rest of the

day and came to somewhat of a conclusion. Yes, this was an opinion and this person was entitled to it, however it only

contributes to our general problem as a

generation: We are not credible. Debating with others about things of this magnitude

while mentally equipped only with opinions like this (and in fact, opinions in general)

is causing those who are actually knowl-

other

school

within

a

semester of economics and a semester of

seemed the feeling was mutual amongst

something to this effect: It would be more

every

reasonable distance of Johnston has a

I logged onto Facebook that day, and it

take and sadly, I hadn’t. The message was

Economics should be mandatory unprecedented this recession is, and who

fully been found and neutralized. The

to make sure I hadn’t made a mental mis-

Mirza Besic

hearing how awful our economy is, how

tacks on the United States, had success-

particular caught my eye. I had to re-read it

words & layout

It seems like we can’t go a week without

hunted mastermind behind terrorist at-

es regarding the major event until one in

kcaB 2Besic

Illustration/Lisa Vanwiel

edgeable to disregard what we have to say.

Be mindful not to misinterpret. I’m not

frowning upon the opinion itself, but rather

its emptiness. Debate that is spurred and developed from frequently researched

and confirmed factual information is what drives people to better themselves. Mere-

ly making bold and outlandish statements

based solely on personal anger, hatred, and opinion will only hold us back. The

only way to be proactive on matters like

this and others is to approach debate with civility, preparation, and an open mind.

For instance, I happen to disagree

with the status I read that day. So in order to debate pro actively, I would first clearly

present my dissenting opinion: that is, it would be more beneficial to kill Osama

bin Laden than President Obama. I would then follow this opinion with a prepared factual base such as Osama bin Laden

played a large role in the planning and executing of many terrorist attacks against

our country while President Obama has not. The debate would then progress from there hopefully in a similar format.

In essence, if we wish to be taken se-

riously, we need to abandon our childish

tendency to think that we are right be-

cause we think we are right. There’s nothing wrong with taking a passionate stance on an issue, but only if reality leads you to that stance.

Who is more concerned with their image?

government. However, they focus on money

management, when they should be focusing on the theory of economics. While that sounds incredibly painful, it would be one of the most

useful classes any of us would take, and it couldn’t be worse than other required courses.

Fitting economics into the list of mandatory

classes is sure to draw opposition from

students, who already detest essentially every required course from ILA to government.

Unlike these other classes, economics is

directly applicable to the rest of your life.

Understanding

how

apportionment

case

law affects the distribution of sovereignty or analyzing “The Bean Trees” for deeply hidden symbolism does not matter to most people;

understanding how the economy works and why it works should.

Economics is currently an elective, with

about 60 people a year taking it. Replacing

one semester of government with a semester of basic social sciences economics would be

incredibly useful. Would you take government if it was a choice? No. Is some of it useful?

Yes. Economics will be exactly the same way.

With

economics

mandated,

students

would have a better understanding of our economy. If getting rid of part of government is an issue, think about this. If students had

a better understanding of the economy, they would quit blaming the government for its current state. The economy is not great, and

it’s easy to blame the president or Congress.

However, the truth is that capitalist economies

In Plain Sight Illustration Lisa Vanwiel

go through the cycle of boom and bust, and no amount of stimulus or tax cutting can stop that.

I wore this hat because I forgot to wash my hair.

I wore this hat because I want to look like I don’t care, but I’m really putting lots of effort into looking unkempt.

The point is, economics is a class

everybody should take. You might actually

learn something, but it wouldn’t be an easy A, so most people already have crossed it out as an elective.

feature

feb 2012

Board member bakes

Caramel Chocolate Oatmeal Bars

Crust: 2 cups flour 2 cups quick rolled oats 1 1/2 cups firmly packed brown sugar 1 tsp baking soda 1 1/4 cups margarine or butter softened

words & layout Taylor Mithelman “Her baking was so fantastic, words can’t

even describe,” seventh grade teacher Jodi Buchan said. Buchan is just one of many Johnston residents who enjoy Jill Morrill’s

Filling: 1 jar (12.5 oz) caramel ice cream topping 3 Tblsp flour 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Heat oven to 350. Grease 9 x 13 pan. In

made-from-scratch baking. Although Morrill

large bowl of mixer, blend all crust ingredi-

may be better known for her position on the

ents at low speed until crumbly. Press half

school board, she also has a reputation for

of crumb mixture in bottom of greased pan.

her signature baked goods.

Reserve remaining crumb mixture for top-

Morrill opened Snickerdoodles in 1997

ping. Bake for 10 minutes.

with Lisa Swett, mother of boys’ swim coach

Meanwhile, in small bowl, combine

Tyler Swett. It was a small gift shop and

caramel topping and flour. Remove partially

bakery located on Merle Hay Road. Here

baked crust from oven, sprinkle with choco-

they had a little café where they served

late chips. Drizzle evenly with caramel mix-

lunch to their faithful customers, commonly

ture. Sprinkle with reserved crumb mixture.

teachers. Morrill and Swett enjoyed their

time as small business owners. “My favor-

the b&w p.13

Bake at 350 for additional 15-18 minutes or Taylor Mithelman/BW

until golden brown. Cool completely. ( Can

talk and meeting new people,” Morrill said.

Jill Morrill places her finished product, a ginger molasses cookie, on a wire rack to cool. Although Morrill no longer owns a bakery, she enjoys baking in her free time.

cookies and bars for the shop and also

Morrill and Swett could spend more time

complete.

time.

share the products of her hard work.

asked Morrill if she would make some

ate, has had years of these sweets and

graduation party. Her personal favorite are

back into baking. Because she no longer

time I visit and for all special occasions so

“They were the most delicious things I’ve

take back to school with me,” Kiera said.

mom wouldn’t set them out and I could eat

ite part was just having people come in to Morrill ran the bakery, which included

made-to-order cakes for special events.

Most of these cakes were nontraditional.

“Every cake she made was different, it set her apart.” Swett said. She created a giant

dinosaur cake and an Egyptian cake for a wedding. “Her cakes were never frozen and

she made her own frosting, something that was hard to find at the time,” Swett said.

Snickerdoodles closed in 2007 so that

Playing

Ear by

Not everyone plays music by reading notes

words & layout Ashley Enger

with family. Morrill stopped baking for some About a year ago however, a friend

cakes for a special event, which led Morrill

owns the bakery, she is not obligated to

bake at every request. Instead she accepts

the jobs she knows she will have time to

Morrill’s daughter, Kiera, a 2010 gradu-

Morrill to make bars and cookies for her

they continue into college. “She bakes any-

Morrill’s Caramel Chocolate Oatmeal Bars.

she makes huge batches of sweets I can

ever eaten,” Vasey said. “I hid a box so my

“My friends love it too because she’ll send

them as leftovers.”

is obvious that the music he enjoys is not

“I was totally amazed when I heard [Tim]

play the piano,” special education teacher

preciation is his impressive talent. Tim can

him at the talent show last year and hope to

his keyboard without ever having music in front of him.

Tim was born premature, and after

Mariette Nikolai said. “I was proud to see see him at this year’s [talent show]. I never was more proud of that child than that day, I was so proud to see him [perform].”

But performing in the talent show is not

health complications, he became disabled.

Tim’s first moment in the spotlight.

playing on a small piano and he was play-

fore an Iowa Cubs baseball game and vari-

of his music therapist, Robin, Tim learned

peers during class time.

At the age of three, Tim’s mom heard him ing music he had only heard. With the help to read color-coded music. She taught him how to correlate colors with keys, and after a while, Tim learned that the sound he was playing had names.

After playing a medley on his keyboard,

Tim announced he will be playing some-

2011 graduate Spencer Vasey hired

show, “Tuxedo Junction.”

confined to this one song or genre. Just

listen to a song on the radio and play it on

them boxes of their favorite cookies or I end up sharing because there is so much.”

thing in particular in the upcoming talent

as obvious as his wide range of music ap-

into bars.

Baking for Morrill is a way to relax and

Although Tim Gerzema claims that Mo-

zart’s Minuet in F is his favorite song, it

refrigerate 1 - 2 hours until filling sets) Cut

Tim has played the National Anthem be-

ous music festivals, as well as playing for “He is always ready to share his gift and

is very generous in taking requests,” special education teacher Lisa Adams said.

In previous years Tim has been involved

in the high school band, but his job at Wal Mart now keeps him from playing the piano

Ian Dunshee/BW

Concentrating on playing the piano, Tim takes requests. Fellow classmates enjoy when he plays the piano for them.

in the band.

However, that does not stop him from

finding time to play, “I have a piano in my house that I play everyday,” Tim said.

While juggling his job and the piano,

Tim looks forward to playing the National

Anthem at the I-Cubs game again this summer.

the b&w p.14

feature

feb 2012

Experts discuss awareness, grief

Dr. Jeff Kerber, manager of Iowa Health-Des Moines Employee Assistance Program, and Angela Hunt, the district’s K-12 Family Outreach Counselor, offer insight about grief after the death of two students in January.

words & layout Lauren Coffey and Hannah Soyer

What not to say: “You’re doing so well”

Saying this kind of thing leads to negative connotations of expressing emotions.

“They’re in a better place now.”

Whether people are spiritual or believe in God or not, this

gives them a negative image of God and spirituality and leaves them wondering why they would be taken away.

Lauren Coffey/BW

Waukee High School created a poster expressing their condolences, as well as sending a letter.

Community involvement

Districts from the Des Moines area reached out to

schools in the district by baking food for teachers, providing substitutes, and writing letters.

Waukee High School expressed its condolences by

making banners for the high school and middle school and

having students sign them. Waukee teacher Matt Pries

After having the banners displayed in the commons for

students to write on, Waukee senior Alex Romeo delivered

them to the middle school and high school. “We know how

it is and we know what it’s like having people looking out for you when you’re going through a hard time,” Romeo said.

“We would’ve really been stretched to provide services

needed to provide to our students,” Associate superinten-

school last year and S.E. Polk reached out to us,” Pries

tutes as well as other resources. We were so thankful and

said. “When we heard about what happened, we wanted to be there for people.”

dant Dr. Jim Casey said. “The community offered substi-

blessed to have so many people that stepped up and offered us help.”

Grieving People grieve in different ways. Some may openly

grieve, others may not. However, this does not mean they

behavior is not.”

While it is acceptable for people to feel any emotion, the

way they express their emotions need to be appropriate . If

portant.” Dr. Jeff Kerber said.

a more productive outlet.

It is common for people to want to isolate themselves in

you are feeling upset, instead of becoming aggressive find Angela Hunt helped counsel students for a week fol-

order to deal with their emotions alone. However, it is im-

lowing the deaths. “I saw students angry, super sad, frus-

may also be unexpected waves of sadness; this is normal.

According to the American Foundation for Suicide Pre-

portant to maintain contact with others for support. There

trated,” Hunt said. “Everyone grieves in different ways.”

“The stages of grief are good and reasonable to study

vention, people grieve over differing time spans. It is com-

varies with each person. “Grief will look like different things

time than someone else. Be patient with how others are

but there is no set-in-stone formula,” Kerber said. Grief with different people, sometimes through humor, sometimes through anger. Every feeling is appropriate but every

pletely appropriate for someone to grieve for a much longer reacting. Just because you aren’t grieving anymore doesn’t mean others are not.

The thought process Kerber shared information about the thinking behind

suicidal people. “When people experience suicidal ideation, it is a fundamental loss of perspective. Literally, they

some, even when they complete suicide they go back and forth.”

“It’s a chasing rabbits sort of thing, the ‘why’ question.

It seems to me those in the immediate family are the ones

“What is clear in research with people that complete

to respect them and their understanding of the situation

suicide, there is evidence about their ambivalence. For

In the end, there is no “right” thing to do or say. Just try

and be there for the person.

School involvement Last year, middle school principal Brian Carico and An-

gela Hunt proposed a program called “Teen Screen” to the school board. Teen Screen is a voluntary program that currently is available for eighth grade students in health class.

It is a mental health check up that assesses whether stu-

dents may need further evaluation for depression or anxi“It’s not a diagnosis, it’s just seeing how they’re thinking

and feeling,” Hunt said. “If they test positive, their parents will be notified and recommended to go see a therapist,

psychologist or a social worker who are all trained to deal with cases like those.”

Anti-Depressants Many factors contribute to suicidal actions; anti-depres-

sants alone are not the sole factor.

“There are warnings about anti-depressants causing

suicidal thoughts,” Kerber said. “While those warnings are important and some people using those medicines expe-

rience increased suicidal thoughts, generally speaking, using the medicine in line with the physician’s directions and keeping close supervision with kids using those meds greatly reduce the risk.”

no longer see the options that make it entirely possible to get better, to regain perspective again.”

Listen. Let the grieving express themselves however

they want.

ety. The check up also screens vision, dental, and hearing.

are not grieving. No matter how people grieve, “Finding

somebody to talk to such as a parent or counselor is im-

Reach out and talk to someone if you need to.

Try to keep things as routine as possible.

originally thought of the idea and found art students to help paint the banners. “We went through this same thing at our

What to do:

with the inherent right to speculate; the rest of us need whether we agree or not.”

If you or someone you know is considering suicide, there is help available. Get help by calling the national suicide hotline 1.800.273.8255 open 24/7.

* The families of Spenser Nelson and Cameron Carico did not comment.

health

feb 2012

the b&w p.15

Ankeny embraces PE system Heart-rate monitors used to grade students, possibility for JHS

have to work in PE now,” Larson said. “It’s an accountability factor.”

Senior Erin Piska participates in regular PE and shares

these sentiments. “They should spend the 15 minutes it

words Kristine Hayes layout Evan Culbert

takes for us to take off and put on the monitors to do some-

thing that is fun and that we might actually enjoy,” Piska said, “I don’t like being ‘monitored.’”

Freshman Anthony DeFino walks into the gym, grabs

A few students do agree with the idea of the monitors,

his watch and strap, then dresses out. PE as usual. Instead of hanging out until class starts, as soon as he gets

just not the execution. Senior Cameron Smith said, “[PE]

has been the norm for DeFino and other Ankeny students

said, “If it did, then I’d be all for the heart rate monitors. But

is not a credit and it doesn’t go towards your GPA,” Smith

dressed he runs laps, trying to get his minutes early. This

it’s not, so why should we try?”

for the last six years?

Teachers at Ankeny believe that using the monitors

This change stemmed from a new approach to PE. “We

had administration that believed in a wellness approach in-

helps to build lifelong skills, and simplifies grading. “It’s an

Jodi Larson said. A few years and grants later every stu-

Stoessel said, “It’s a little more individualized for each stu-

objective way to grade effort,” PE/Health instructor Annie

stead of the traditional [PE] structure,” PE/health instructor

dent.”

dent is sporting the technology.

As for Johnston, monitors are something that both the

Each monitor has a tracker that counts how many min-

utes students are in their healthy fitness zones. They are to reach between 130 and 190 heartbeats per minute for at least 20 minutes per class period in order to get an A. The

program is designed to help students learn what it takes to make physical education beneficial.

Kristine Hayes/BW

Freshman Shayla Cullen shoots a basket during a warm up game. Basketball is one of the options in the open gym section during class.

The monitors are set up so that part of it is worn around

state representative, visited Ankeny Jan. 30 to speak about

lowed to keep their chest straps, but return the monitor and

“The Des Moines Register” that she never leaves home

the chest and a watch is worn to record. Students are al-

the importance of using the technology. Johnson said in

watch at the end of every class.

without her own heart rate monitor.

lieve in the project totally. Johnson and Bruce Braley, a

monitors. “What [students/athletes] don’t like is that they

Teachers and Olympic gymnast Shawn Johnson, be-

Students, however, have not been supportive of the

administration and the PE department would like to have, money provided. “I think the monitors are a good way of

collecting data for kids,” principal Brent Riessen said, “for those [students] who care it’s a good thing.” Discussions

around the monitors have been positive but financing them and their long-term costs have kept the talk from getting farther than Wednesday morning collaborations.

“We’ve talked about [monitors] as a PE department,”

PE instructor Brian Woodley said, “I think [Ankeny] is very fortunate. It’s good for kids to see results. To see results, to see what they’ve done and where they are going.”

Easy ways to prevent common sports injuries words & layout

Sarah Ross

It is well-known that injuries are

2

1

common in sports. Here are some

3

4

of the most frequent, and easy ways to prevent them.

4

1 2

3

Illustrations /Lisa VanWiel

Injury: ACL tear

Injury: Shin splints

Injury: Stress fractures

Injury: Rotator cuff sprain

What is it?

What is it?

What is it?

What is it?

Prevention: Zig-zag runs

Prevention: Orthotics (custom molded feet inserts) helps prevent by laying the foot in a natural position relieving stress of the foot and leg.

Prevention: During meals

Prevention: Put cold packs

Treatment: The athlete will have to refrain from athletic activities for a few weeks but can be weight-bearing on the injury.

Treatment: Do strengthening exercises for the shoulder and reducing athletic activity initially.

An ACL tear is caused by unintended twisting and cutting that causes stress to the knee.

make the body practice balance and body control while running in various directions at different speeds.

Treatment: Surgery is likely with an ACL tear followed by physical therapy for four to six months.

Shin splints are an injury where there is increasing pain at the bottom of the tibia or the shin.

Treatment: Includes activity modification that caused the injury, stretching the leg, and icing the area of the injury.

A stress fracture is the overuse of a bone. The legs and feet are common sites of the fracture. eat calcium-rich foods to supply and maintain bone density with Vitamin D.

The sprain occurs when there is a high level of rotation in the shoulder causing the ligaments to stretch. or heating pads on the shoulder when it is painful.

the b&w p.16

backpage

feb 2012

NOT

No matter how old anyone gets, arts and crafts can

still be entertaining. At Glazed Expressions, people of all ages get the opportunity to go back to the atmo-

SNOW BORING

sphere of an elementary school art room. The walls

are full of pottery options you can make, bright paint colors, and different art designs that are free to use.

Glazed Expressions is a unique experience that allows

for the excuse to get a little messy and have fun doing it.

There are between 250 to 300 bisque pottery

pieces to choose from. Depending on how much you

spend that day, you can create anything from a simple, traditional pot to a glass piece to hang on a necklace.

It’s a great place to gather a group together when

looking for something interesting to do.

When it’s snowing outside and there seems like there isn’t anything to do, try snow crafts, or going to these fun places and beat the winter blues.

Junior Shianne Thomas goes there whenever she

has the money. “Your money is going toward something you can use in the future as a decoration or even a gift.” Thomas said. Her favorite thing is a ceramic

words Ashley Shay & Zach Peterson

flower piece that she now hangs on a necklace.

Turn snow into sweets

Ashley Shay/BW

Snow Candy

Being stuck inside on a snow day is

no longer an excuse to be bored. Get

creative start looking for things around at home that can keep you entertained.

On a day when there’s snow on the

ground, try making maple syrup snow

candy. This treat is simple and easy to

put it in the freezer if it will not be made right away. Then take some syrup straight

people locked up with little to do. Making

cakes, and measure out about 3 cups.

ending indoor boredom and hunger.

it on medium high for ten minutes.

one must gather up some snow that has

from the fridge, just the kind for pan-

snow cream is a very simple solution to

Pour the syrup in the sauce pan and heat

To make this delicious winter snack,

After the syrup is ready, take a bowl

make. Ingredients include: clean snow,

full of the snow and pour the syrup on

Gather up some clean snow in a bowl or

utes.

maple syrup, a sauce pan and a spoon.

Snow Cream

Winter weather many times can keep

top. The candy is done in a matter of min-

recently fallen.

Next, measure out eight cups of snow

and place in a mixing bowl. It is probably

best to do this outside because of how

quickly the snow will melt.

After, add one cup of sugar, one cup

of milk and two tablespoons of vanilla extract to the mixing bowl.

Then stir the mixture until it looks

smooth and delicious.

Finally add your favorite ice cream

topping. If the mixture is too thin, do not hesitate to add more snow.

When finished just get out a spoon

and enjoy.

Sky Zone is a little different then anything else we

have in Iowa. It’s an indoor trampoline park that is available to any age. With in the park there are dif-

ferent sections of trampoline covered floors that each have different purposes. There is a dodgeball court, a

basketball court, a bounce and foam pit court and a kid friendly court.

Sky Zone is currently still under construction in its

new location at 1300 SE Gateway Drive in Grimes.

They are hoping to announce their Grand Opening as soon possible. The official date will be presented

on the Sky Zone website by the end of February. The photo shown is the dodgeball trampoline court.

Ashley Shay/BW