March 2010

Black&White

GET YOUR BIKE ON the black and white. march 2010. volume 19 issue 7. 5152780449. 6501 NW 62nd ave. johnston. iowa one copy free

ON THE COVER designed by Kallen Kramer photo by Kyle Soyer

check us out online p20

p16

REVIEW

FASHION

www.theblackandwhiteonline.com

NEWS 3 4

Haiti relief

Students step up to help the cause

news briefs Adviser advisee

Revamped homeroom system

stuco updates

EDITORIAL 5

Students need to be bilingual

Secret life lies

8

ENTERTAINMENT

Marijuana

The pros and cons of legalization and decriminalization are discussed

Parking Decency

Personal experiences with handicap parking

STAFF JM KK

EDITORS IN CHIEF Julia Manning

Kallen Kramer layout

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

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

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

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

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

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

DUNGEON 20

DOUBLE TRUCK

21

Tips to boost your grades before June!

FEATURE

Colin Schares

Track

New methods yield togetherness

Fitness Sports

Random spotlight Senior Matt DeFelice

22

Academic senior excels at Central Campus

23

Kerrick leaves JHS campus Jazz Syndicate

Where runners get their kicks

Martial Arts

Learning the complex skills of fighting

Winter tennis

Snowy courts require maintenance

Boys’ soccer rivals

Talent soars in competition

16

Fuel up with these snacks

SPORTS

Get those grades up

Inside a Military Academy Past Johnston student tells his story

BACKPAGE 24

Meet the lunch staff!

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Mac vs. PC

Read the book first...or not

15

Energy bars

19

Books->Movies

14

The stories behind tattoos

Enjoy the weather on these trails

College computers

12/13

Inked in

HEALTH

Get your bike on!

10 11

18

Behind the smiling faces of JD’s

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Van Dees!

The story behind Johnston’s finest

p15

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SUB-EDITORS

CC PM EO KM KM LG

Catherine Caracci news

BW KK MK DL KS YQ

Brennan Winget lifestyle

Philip Mortens

Kelsey Kruse

Eric Oatts

Matt Knoedel

opinion

entertainment

Kelly McGowan fashion

Kiera Morrill photo

Lauren Gehrke managing

feature

sports

Dwight Lykins online

Kyle Soyer photo

Yiming Qin illustrator

i index

An unrealistic depiction of teen pregnancy

Hu cares

7

Try one of these unique restaurants on April 17!

Early foreign language

OPINION 6

9

PROM EATS

p6

STAFF WRITERS Jon

Houp

Blake Schlawin

Michael Knoedel Ryan Smaha Chris Caracci

Zach Winjum

Mike Shi

Kevin Hu

Kristine Hayes

Evan Culbert

Lauren Coffey

Michael Carlson

Andy Halterman

Spencer Vasey

Scott Monroe

Liz Waller

Ethan Meng

Alyssa Czapla

Monisha Kumar

Ian Dunshee

news

March 10

p3

Students help Haiti words & layout Catherine Caracci

Since tragedy struck Haiti Jan. 12, student council has been putting to-

gether a number of fundraisers to provide aid to the country. Led by sophomore Scott Syroka and junior Katie Lashier, students have come together to raise money and provide food and supplies for the struggling nation.

According to the CIA Web site, “Haiti is the poorest country in the West-

ern Hemisphere with 80 percent of the population living under the poverty

line.” Because of this, the Haitian government must rely on aid from foreign nations to overcome the devastation they are currently under.

Monika Sehic/Dragon

What: Hoops for Haiti

Why: to raise money through intramurals

Results: 20 teams participated in the 3 vs.

3 basketball tournament, and $400 was raised for Haiti relief efforts. ”In between

games students could participate in a

3-point shooting contest and/or a free throw contest,” Syroka said.

NB

Kyle Soyer/BW

Provided/Scott Syroka

Senior NHS member Kayla Ross cuts a t-shirt collected from the drive that was held Feb. 15-23.

What: Meals from the Heartland at Luther-

What: T-shirt drive

from one location,” Syroka said.

Results: Meals from the Heartland is send-

ed the T-shirt drives because they were a

committee and other students then cut up

struggling people of Haiti.

ate mats for the people in Haiti to sleep on.

an Church of Hope

ing all meals packaged so far this year to

Haiti. Syroka organized a team of students to package meals, and student council held a coin war, raising $4028, with the proceeds going to Meals from the Heartland.

Why: Deanne Kraai Herr of Newton startcheap and easy way to provide aid to the Results: Student council received donations totaling 2,255 shirts from Feb. 15-23.

“It’s the most shirts they have collected

New club studies Asian culture The Asian Culture Club (ACC), was recently ap-

proved by the school board.

The ACC’s main goal is to learn

about Asian culture in a fun way. “Ba-

words & layout Chris Caracci

into mats.

As a result of increased enrollment, the school district may eventually

dent body.

The concept would most likely not be considered until the

2018-2019 school year; however, a district facilities committee will meet in April or May to discuss other expansions to

esting,” ACC president Mary Feng said.

the school.

The ACC had its first meeting March 8. During fu-

tact people for pen pals, listen to music, have a fashion

The shirts will be sent to Herr to be made

require a combined 9-12 grade campus to accommodate the larger stu-

want to make it interactive and inter-

ture meetings they plan to make food, watch films, con-

the shirts on Feb. 25 and March 9 to cre-

Plans for future combined 9-12 campus are discussed

sically, the club is educational, but I

news briefs

Members of a National Honor Society

“I was not here when the original arrangement of 8/9 and

Guthmiller

10-12 was put in place,” superintendent Clay Guthmiller said.

“I suspect it was done to accommodate building sizes but to

show, give chopstick lessons and celebrate holidays. “I

also provide proper educational opportunities for our students.” When the

style than language,” Feng said.

for building size and the students as well.

imagine that the ACC will focus more on culture and lifeThe ACC had 14 members at its first meeting. At its

district facilities committee meets, they will talk about the accommodations “I personally believe that the 9-12 campus configuration could become

next meeting on March 22, members made sushi and

a reality with all of the issues related to expanding the current facilities at

The ACC is open to all students, regardless of eth-

drop-off and other,” Guthmiller said. He said he would support the merger

listened to music.

nicity, who are interested in Asian culture.

JMS and JHS, additional parking, saturated parent and bus pick-up and because it provides room for additional programming for students.

news

March 10

p4

ADVISORY PROGRAM REPLACES HOMEROOM

aims for connections 4 Areas

What it is

What it’s not

Eliminated activities

Advocacy for example good habits, goal setting

A place to belong

An extended homeroom

Drills

Community

A place to be known

“Blame storming”

Voting

Development of personal skills for example dealing with stress, 21st century skills

A place to have needs met

Free time

Surveys

Purposeful meeting times

A counseling session

Dissemination of nonacademic items

Invigorating experiences for example competition, pictionary

Consistent and protected time

The advisors will be members of the certi-

then juniors, startling statistics emerged.

Things usually done in homeroom such as

words Mike Shi layout Kallen Kramer

be divided randomly among the same grade

and asked to respond if they either strongly

sory program will always meet every week,

Starting next year, an advisory program

on guidance counselors. For example, all

When asked if they felt safe at school, 90

such as pep assemblies. Also, the advisory

“The advisory program is designed for ev-

P-Z would be randomly divided with other

“While this may seem good, in a school

The curriculum for the advisory program

advisor that they can talk

be between 15-18 students per teacher;

around 100 students don’t feel safe at

Curriculum, 21 century skills and district

cipal Randy Klein said.

more healthy environment.

When asked questions like if they be-

by the personalization team, however, each

will stress four things:

sory program once a week, however, this

or whether they felt that they could talk to

mester curriculum. Though there is a cur-

Randy Klein century skills and invigo-

personalization team hope to have the ad-

agreed, by starting the advisory program,

non-academic, with no sort of pressure.

Several years ago, there was a push to re-

research and statistics say that the more

In addition, 70 percent of the ’08 junior

their doubts. “Change is scary and unpre-

oriented, this is one of the steps towards

[the advisory program] will be,” Kline said.

or guardian if they were having problems.

and teachers] to have an open mind.”

of Randy Klein, Stephanie Guthrie, Audrey

In addition to improving student/teacher

“When you don’t have someone to talk to

lesson plans, visit the advisory program’s

line Sapp, Jane Altman and Isaac Roden-

to close the gap in some statistics.

While the advisory program will replace

fied staff, essentially teachers. Students will

Students were given various questions

fire drills or voting will be absent. The advi-

levels but in certain alphabet groups based

agree, agree, disagree or strongly disagree.

meetings will not be canceled due to things

will be implemented in the high school.

of the juniors with last names starting with

percent of the ’08 juniors agreed.

program will be curriculum based.

ery student in the school to have an adult

juniors with last names of P-Z. There will

of [1,200 plus] students, this means that

will be partly based off of the Iowa Core

to one-on-one,” vice-prin-

this number is kept small in order to have a

school,” Kline said.

goals. The curriculum was mostly created

The advisory program

Currently, it is planned to have the advi-

lieved that their teachers cared about them

department had a hand in the second se-

advocacy, community, 21

may change in the future. Kline and the

them one-on-one, 31.4 percent of students

riculum, the advisory program strives to be

rating experiences.

visory program meet more often. “All of the

the district hopes to bridge this gap.

design the high school to be more student

talking and meetings, the more effective

girls agreed that they could talk to a parent

dictable,” Bell said. “We just want [students

that. The personalization team, composed

Each session will last twenty minutes.

76 percent of junior boys agreed.

To learn more about the curriculum and

Bell, Roz Weaver, Alicia Rollison, Jacque-

relations, the advisory program also strives

at home, who do you talk to?” Kline said.

Web site at

berg, are behind the advisory program.

Based on a survey taken in 2008 by the

homeroom, they will not be the same.

student council

The personalization team is not without

<http://www.johnston.k12.ia.us/schools/

highschool/advisoryprogram/index.html>

updates

recent results.

upcoming events.

in-progress.

Haiti relief

Blood drive

Senior challenge

Between the coin war and Hoops for Haiti a total of $4489.34 was collected, all for Meals from the Heartland

April 7 in the gym foyer. If under 18 must have signed parent permission.

May 5. Teams of 12, forms are due April 14.

March 10

ngôn ngữ

editorial

p5

lingua LANGUAGE: idioma taal (CULTURAL) IGNORANCE langue

ISsprache NOT tungumál BLISS linguagem

språk

During the Winter Olympics in Vancouver, countless inter-

Not only does a second language allows us to be

for foreign language exposure in school, Olguin, Hollings-

understanding of the construction of our own language.

With recent budget cuts, and even the removal of the

views with athletes from around the globe told inspirational

more culturally aware, it also allows us to have a deeper

worth, and Moermond all suggested kindergarten.

emotion, we probably failed to give the athletes credit for their

“Think of classes you have taken where you don’t read

seventh grade French exploratory a couple of years ago,

The American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Lan-

French numbers are dropping, and will drop even further if

stories of hard work and dedication. Getting sucked into the incredible English fluency. Sitting next to multilingual foreign exchange students in our classes, we should feel a step behind the rest of the world, because we are.

With the growing global economy that we

or use language…there are none.” Hollingsworth said.

the language programs are suffering in our district. The

guage found in 2008 that 50 percent of students in a

the exploratory is not put back into place.

However, implementing more for-

are becoming more aware of every year, it is

eign language even at the elementary

start.

financial set-back. “If the (school) board

the bilingual person will get the job,” Spanish

language we could begin giving pref-

AP Spanish teacher Gerald Hollingsworth

nors in other languages,” school board

be native Spanish speakers.” The U.S. Cen-

Dutcher continued to describe an el-

clear that our competition already has a head

level does not have to be a significant

“If it’s between you and a bilingual person,

commits to a strategy of early foreign

teacher Nora Olguin said.

erential treatment to teachers with mi-

echoed this concern. “Your competition will

member John Dutcher said.

sus Bureau reports that the current Hispanic

ementary classroom in which Spanish

to 50 million by 2015, it is already the nation’s

ticed and applied to other subjects stu-

population is 47 million and predicted to grow

or French vocabulary would be prac-

largest ethnic or race minority.

dents were learning.

the world’s largest bilateral trade relationship,

the country have hired a single foreign

undeniable that speaking a second language

room-to-room, similar to a guidance

ployers see (being bilingual) as a real plus,

few words and phrases each week.

A number of school districts around

Canada and the United States conduct

requiring many fluent French speakers. It is

language instructor that cycles from

puts us a step ahead of the competition. “Em-

counselor currently, teaching the kids a

students are willing to stick their necks out

In regards to the seventh grade

and try something new,” AP French teacher Mary Moermond

foreign language class receiving A’s attribute their suc-

French exploratory, it is a significant loss to our French

Hollingsworth refers to foreign language as “world” language.

Not only do we need to emphasize foreign language

put the French exploratory back at Summit,” Moermond

cess in other classes to their foreign language class.

program at the high school level. “We are asking that we

“Something is only foreign until you learn it,” he said. “The world

more at the high school level, but we also need to im-

said. The district already has the curriculum, it is the staff-

Languages reflect sound, culture, and value systems.”

as early as kindergarten. According to multiple psycho-

said.

is what you make it and world language is the key to the world.

As high school students, we honestly cannot have a clear

understanding of where we will be in 20 plus years. “You don’t know where a second language will help you; hotels, restaurants, at your jobs,” Moermond said.

“You make potential friends quicker and you can understand

your enemies. Who knows, maybe they won’t even be your enemies once you understand them.” Hollingsworth added.

plement it further at the middle school levels and even

ing cuts that are causing the school board skepticism.

logical studies, children receive information more ea-

advantage that is not emphasized enough. Not only will

there is a direct correlation between the amount of time

jobs, it has countless benefits academically and culturally.

therefore we can conclude that starting earlier would

AP classes offered. Entering college with 12 foreign lan-

gerly before the age of 10. Studies have also found that

spent learning a language and language proficiency, result in higher fluency in a second language.

When asked what the appropriate age would be

With a minimizing job market, second language is an

a second language give us a head start in competition for

Do not drop Spanish or French. Take advantage of the

guage credits allows an easy minor in a language and a huge benefit to a resume.

photo illustration by Kallen Kramer

opinion

March 10

p6

Changing channels; changing ideals words & layout Ethan Meng Parents across the nation tell their kids the same thing.

“Bad things are going to happen to you if you have sex.”

Now the ABC Family television show “The Secret Life

of the American Teenager” is throwing all of that out the window by sending the opposite message, if you have sex at a young age everything will be perfectly OK.

“The Secret Life of the American Teenager” tells the

story of a teenage girl who becomes pregnant at the age of 15. As the show progresses through the seasons, she

gives birth and succeeds with ease at returning to the normal life of a high school student. Doing so would be nearly

impossible in the real world but some teenage viewers may see what happens in the show and think that it could be a reality for their lives. This is because “Secret-Life” does not focus on what the reality of being a teenage parent is

and how hard it would be to make things the same as they were before.

In the beginning, the show was very preachy about pre-

venting teenage pregnancy. It seems now as if the show

Ethan Meng/BW

cause it shows them up in the middle of the night and if

“Secret-Life” producers need to consider having more

their relationships actually stick together,” Exploring Par-

of these special appearances by public figures because

The worst part about the show is how the main char-

that even teenagers in the public eye can overcome the

enting teacher Kathy Comstock said.

they have the ability to send a good message to viewers

ments at the end of each episode telling you not to have

acter Amy is spoon fed every single request after she has

same obstacles and can go on to help others in the same

information as well as a phone number that could poten-

She gets a job at a day care that conveniently watches her

has taken big steps away from its original pro-abstinence stance. Gone are the informative public service announcesex. These need to be brought back because they provide tially help expecting teenage parents with their situation.

The one small yet crucial detail the show leaves out is

the monstrous amount of work a teenage mother and father would have to go through to raise a child. A more realistic

picture is painted in shows like MTV’s “16 and Pregnant”

and “Teen Mom.” They feature real people and real stories, unlike “The Secret Life of the American Teenager” with fictitious characters and story line that writers have created.

“I think the show 16 and Pregnant is more realistic be-

the baby and life seems to become so much easier for her.

situation.

son while she is at school and there are literally no reper-

teenage girls will get pregnant each year. If “Secret-Life”

be angered by her actions at all. This is not how life is if

it would again teach kids something valuable and poten-

impression until the message is hammered into the view-

The number is large and although there are many help-

According to Pregnantteenhelp.org around 750,000

cussions for her actions. Also her parents do not seem to

would go back to its original position about abstinence then

you are in this situation but the show repeatedly gives this

tially make a dent in decreasing those numbers.

ers’ heads.

ful foundations and organizations to help teenage parents

son this summer the daughter of former Alaskan Governor

teenage pregnancy is serious instead of worry about pro-

In an episode that is due to air in the show’s third sea-

Sarah Palin, Bristol Palin, is set to guest star as herself.

it would help the cause if the show could teach teens that viding entertainment through unrealistic plot lines.

EBSCOhost requires revision for pragmatism

cares

HU

?

words Kevin Hu

Recall the first time going to the library as

search engine in the world is already plas-

to use certain research methods, and the

“One of the advantages of EBSCOhost

tered on your home page?

a sophomore. As students, we were taught school provided sites like EBSCOhost for

is that the sources come from magazines

magazine and newspaper articles...sup-

reliable than Web sites,” Behrens said.

and newspapers, meaning they are more

us to use, gaining access to thousands of

“With Web sites, some students struggle

posedly.

with double checking authenticity and often

Unfortunately, students never even con-

will come across shady sources.”

sider EBSCOhost to be an option when it

comes to research. This is a result of various things.

“One thing that the EBSCOhost lacks

is organization and appeal,” librarian Jane

Behrens said. “The messy layout and the fact that you have to log in is something

Yiming Qin/BW

that hinders students from quickly access-

Overall, it is a good site to find primary

and secondary sources.

Though it is unorganized and inconve-

ing their sources.”

nient, EBSCOhost is a free online cata-

go through EBSCOhost when the biggest

some revision and organization.

And what else can beat Google? Why

logue that is just waiting to be used...after

opinion

March 10

p7

Marijuana reform: a sticky situation Weighing in on the controversial drug words & layout Eric Oatts & Dwight Lykins

The topic of marijuana law has advocates on both sides of the issue mak-

ing bogus and unrefined claims. It is right up there with things you should not

start conversations about with strangers. I can see both sides. People should not

smoke weed, but they always will no matter what happens, and that is a rather sad thought.

Although I do not believe that legalizing, marketing and taxing marijuana will

boost our economy out of recession and into new prosperous heights, like many

pot-smokers argue will happen. However there do seem to be some benefits that would likely come to our homeland if we considered some type of decriminalization

so that possession up to a certain (small) amount was legal, like several states have already done. I am not saying decriminalizing marijuana would be beneficial

because then anyone could smoke weed whenever they wanted. Rather, it would be advantageous so that our nation could at least somewhat diminish the shady and violent business that is drug-dealing.

Since marijuana is illegal, it is run by criminals. Criminals in every sense of the

word. They use violence to control their market. The word “criminals” in this case

is not referring to happy hippy people who grow pot in their backyards. It is also

not referring to the stupid suburban white teenager who likes to smoke reefer in

between classes. It is referring to the “higher-ups” who buy and sell a very high volume of drugs and who will literally do anything to get their money from people who

will literally do anything to get their fix. Decriminalizing marijuana would be beneficial in eliminating violence in the drug-dealing market. I say this, in spite of the

fact that I am actually against any sort of drug dealing. It honestly would help our

country because we would then have a huge amount of people out of prison that would otherwise be stuck there on account of drug possession convictions. I would have to guess that there are a decent amount of non-violent pot-smokers sitting in

our state and federal prisons, costing us tax dollars that could otherwise be going towards something other than paying for a brand new prison to house them.

Legality aside, smoking weed is just uncalled for. There are so many draw-

backs that should deter any right-minded person from smoking it. It temporarily

retards brain cells and distorts the nervous system. It increases blood pressure and makes one lose any sense of time and slows down one’s reactions. Long

term use can mess up a man’s reproductive system, rendering him sterile, and if a women smokes regularly during pregnancy she risks her child getting Fetal Alcohol Syndrome. Sounds like a good time, huh?

If anyone has ever tried to have a conversation with a pro-legalization user,

he or she has most likely heard that person preach about how it is non-addictive, and does not damage your brain. Bullhicky. It is a psychologically addictive drug.

There are people in our own high school who cannot go a day without getting high.

Marijuana “addicts” still go through a bodily state of shock if they can not get high when they want to.

Even though there are no scientific studies out currently that prove beyond a

reasonable doubt that marijuana permanently damages the brain, there is still no

fathomable way that anyone should be able to say that weed does not make one a less motivated, slower, and more stupid person. It does.

-Eric Oatts

No matter how you feel about the plant itself, marijuana is present in our culture

today just as it has been for the past forty years. From users in our school, to users on TV or in movies, pot is something that stirs different emotions in everyone. What ever your emotions surrounding the drug may be, take a minute and review the facts of the drug, and some potentially good things that may come from it.

In 1972 after the explosion of use of marijuana, then President Richard Nixon

ordered a study of the drug to find its’ physical and mental dangers. The study concluded, “No significant physical, biochemical, or mental abnormalities could be

attributed solely to [marijuana] smoking.” In fact few studies have been able to prove physical dangers worse then those caused by tobacco to exist, yet marijuana is still illegal.

But what if this was not the case and marijuana was indeed legal. The truth is it

could be a profitable source of income for the United States. If marijuana production and distribution was regulated by the government and a tax was imposed on the product, there would be opportunity for money to be made.

In fact, an independent study conducted by “Business Week” found the produc-

tion cost of (government-sponsored) marijuana is roughly 33¢ a gram (based on facts from the Canadian government). Currently, U.S. marijuana consumers pay at least $10 per gram for illegal marijuana.

If the cost of retailing and distribution is the same for marijuana as it is for to-

bacco, which is about 10¢ a gram, then selling the (legal) marijuana at exactly the same prices as it is on the street today ($20 per gram) the government could raise

$40-100 billion in tax revenue. This could offer a nice payday for our struggling friends in D.C. However, I’ll admit this wouldn’t be a fix to the current fiscal problem, but at least it could serve as a viable source of income.

The only downfall to the legalization of marijuana is the negative effect it has on

the growers of the product now. Growers, like those from California who have valid

medicinal grower licences, stand to lose profits. Big conglomerates would take over the production of the product, similar to what happened in the tobacco industry.

Marijuana growers are not only people interested in the money they can make,

but more often concerned by the quality of their product. If big business’s stepped in and took over the growing and distributing, the loss of quality of the product

would be overwhelming and the availability of this now legal product would force quality growers out of business.

The stigma surrounding marijuana is a sad thing, a plant grown from the earth

usually with no added chemicals or additives (like in tobacco) is smoked, eaten, or some how ingested. And for no clear reason other then our protection, it is an illegal product to the American consumer.

Yet, looking back on our nation’s history we know the prohibition of a product

does nothing but create a black market full of crime and does nothing but threatening our safety even more. The thirteen-year experiment that was alcohol prohibition did nothing but spike use and triple crime. In the 50 plus years of marijuana prohibition we have seen nothing but a spike in use, and a surge in crime. We have repealed a drug once...we can do it again.

-Dwight Lykins

opinion

March 10

p8

Accessible parking is inaccessible words & layout Kyle Soyer

Kyle Soyer/BW

Freshman Hannah Soyer uses a ramp to enter the family van.

Searching a crowded parking lot for

one open space is a lot like Indiana Jones searching for the Holy Grail while being pursued by Nazis. Finding either rare artifacts is equally difficult, although one of these endeavors is slightly more epic than the

other. My family often partakes in the less

epic endeavor. However, while Indy has his treasure map, we have a blue sign marking

the handicapped parking. We need the extra space for our automatic ramp because my sister, Hannah, uses a wheelchair.

After finally locating the Grail, Indy must

pass through a series of potentially fatal tests, one of which involves blades like giant pizza cutters. In order to successfully

unload my sister while parked in a handicapped spot, my family must also pass a few tests. Again, they are much less epic.

The first test is a matter of size. Accord-

ing to the Americans with Disabilities Act

(ADA), there are two acceptable designs for handicapped parking spots. Both designs call for a 96-inch wide parking space, but different-sized passenger unloading

zones, or access aisles; either 60 inches or 96-inches wide.

Ninety six inches is plenty of room for the

ramp and a wheelchair to coexist peacefully.

Sixty inches is only enough space if there is

no car parked next to us. But this may lead to

gally? A mother trying to safely unload her

version of Indy’s giant pizza cutters. That is

doesn’t want to walk as far? Are the ADA

Hannah coming face-to-face with a different

disabled daughter or someone who just

exactly what happened right before my last

parking regulations even being enforced?

As my sister rolled down the ramp, a car

not. John Temple, a wheelchair user and

the ramp was in. My dad looks nothing like

unpromising story. He had parked outside

ine him wearing a fedora and holding a bull

back, there was a car parked illegally so

hard against the passenger window, and the

a policeman for help. But the policeman

could have easily snapped the ramp in two,

aisle for handicapped people was too pet-

chair smashing to the concrete.

tow truck. He suggested that Temple ask

parking spots anywhere in a parking lot.

anyone was parked in a no parking spot.

band concert.

It would almost seem that they are

started backing into the same parking spot

father of senior John Temple, relates an

Harrison Ford, but it wasn’t hard to imag-

a store and gone inside. “When I came

whip while sprinting over the ice. He rapped

I couldn’t get in,” Temple said. He asked

driver hit the brakes. We were lucky. The car

seemed to think that parking on an access

sending Hannah and 170 pounds of wheel-

ty for a ticket and was reluctant to call a

All too often, there are no van accessible

the store to announce over the intercom if

“Sometimes I have to park sideways in

“He basically said, ‘You’re on your own,’”

order to get the ramp out and prevent some-

Perhaps drivers are simply unaware.

one else from pulling in,” Michelle Soyer, my

However, I find it very hard to buy that

in the access aisle.

of yellow cross-hatchings and blue signs

Doorly Zoo in Omaha several years ago. The

understanding of the disabled drivers in no

to leave my sister, one of my cousins, and

few of those blues signs mark some spots

van.

marked as “van only?”

mother, said. This is illegal. But so is parking

drivers do not understand the meanings

Some did this to my family at the Henry

with a stick-men in wheelchairs. I am more

ramp was completely blocked. My mom had

need of a ramp, who are unaware that a

me alone on the curb while she moved the

as “van accessible.” But why are they not

So who should get a ticket for parking ille-

According to the ADA, “A sign is need-

ed to alert van users to the presence of the

wider aisle, but the space is not intended to be restricted only to vans.” Instead of

“van accessible,” the signs should say “van parking only”, then ramp users would have much less of a problem.

The ADA actually offers a potentially

workable solution to this problem: make all

handicapped parking spaces large enough for a ramp. Called the “Universal Parking

Space Design,” every accessible space would be 132-inches wide with a 60-inch

access aisle. This is technically the equivalent of the aforementioned van accessible parking space. Unfortunately, I have never seen or heard of this scheme put to use.

Even if handicapped parking spaces

are enlarged, non-disabled drivers will still park in them, even if the fine is raised and

the police start cracking down. For the rest of us, it is a simple matter of courtesy. If

you have no disability, leave that spot for

someone who actually needs it. If you are disabled, but do not need a ramp to enter

or exit your car, leave the van accessible

parking spaces for someone who does. As my father said, “It’s one of those things we, as humans, should be able to enforce ourselves.”

Indiana Jones certainly is not going to.

promrestaurants review

March 10

p9

words&layout Alyssa Czapla, Kelsey Kruse and Kallen Kramer

FANCY

PRICEY

Splash

$26&up

Splash has an inviting atmosphere, perfect for prom. Walk in and hear the music of a live piano player, look around to see colorful walls and aquariums. The chairs are comfortable and the tables have fresh flowers placed in the center. A candle on every table gives a calming romantic feel. Reservations are recommended, and the sooner the better. No group is too big. Splash is located downtown at 303 Locust.

EXTRAVAGANT CHIC

REASONABLE

SENSIBLE CASUAL

INEXPENSIVE

FUN

801 Grand steakhouse

801 Grand Ave Des Moines, IA 50309-8000 (515) 244-7801

Fleming’s steakhouse

150 S. Jordan Creek Pkwy West Des Moines, IA 50266 (515) 457-2916

Carpe Diem Bakery Brew bistro 6587 University Avenue Des Moines, IA 50311 (515) 255-7722

$16-25

Alba Walking into Alba the first thing to notice is the assortment of antique doors on the ceiling. The atmosphere is trendy although loud. This restaurant provides a place for a small group of up to six, or a circular room for a larger group of up to 20 for prom night.

With appetizers come unique and antique ‘pretty plates’ each with a different design. These come from the owner’s parents who enjoy shopping for antiques. The food is not the typical teenage dish, but once described and tasted it’s a n enjoyable meal. Alba is in the East Village, on East 6th Ave.

Django French Italian

210 10th St Des Moines, IA 50309 (515) 288-0268

Noah’s Ark steak, Italian

2400 Ingersoll Avenue, Des Moines (515) 288-2246

Flying Mango bbq, Caribbean

4345 Hickman Road Des Moines, IA 50310-3352 (515) 255-4111

Papa’s Pizzeria

$9-15

Papa’s Pizzeria may not be the usual prom destination. Located in Polk City, the short drive is so worth it for this family owned restaurant. Red checkered table cloths cover all of the tables giving the restaurant a very casual feel. The pizza doesn’t taste like it was delivered to your front door. The staff is friendly, like anyone would imagine at a small town restaurant, the food is delicious, and the prices are good.

Spaghetti Works Italian

310 Court Avenue Des Moines, IA 50309-2210 (515) 243-2195

Miyabi 9 sushi

512 E. Grand Ave. Des Moines IA (515) 288-8885

The Radish American

721 E 1st St Grimes, IA 50111-2237 (515) 986-1900 photos provided/Splash/Kelsey Kruse/Alyssa Czapla/ Andreas Praefcke

March 10

bike.

entertainment

p10

words and layout Kallen Kramer and Julia Manning

! and ring m p y s g e this h th s l c i t i a r D he t t t i h

Kyle Soyer/BW

explore these

health benefits of training

LOCAL TRAILS raccoon river valley

scenic raccoon river valley trail location

clive to jefferson

difficulty length

medium

wind resistance forces the body to overcome challenges, increases workload two to 10 percent no need for blasting music nature and the sun is calming and therapeutic

(+ 33 mile under construction “north loop”)

neal smith trail des moines

difficulty length

medium

(Big Creek into Des Moines)

26 miles

mountain center trail location

des moines

difficulty length

hard

(art center to old science center)

10 miles

builds more muscle by maintaining stability and balance over obstacles fresh air is better for the body and mind

56 miles

location

OUTSIDE

neal smith

where to

GET YOUR GEAR

Bike World 6600 Douglas Avenue Urbandale 255-7047

Rasmussen Bicycle Shop 301 Grand Avenue West Des Moines 277-2636

bike to school week

May 17-21

Irwin’s Bike & Sports 5500 Merle Hay Rd Johnston 270-8304

entertainment

March 10

p11

MAC vs. PC words & layout Scott Monroe When students are preparing for college, one huge

aspect is generally overlooked: the laptop. Considered by

many as an essential component to improving college success, choosing the

right laptop could lead to an efficient workload. Choosing the wrong one could lead to an

efficient headache. The most common debate centers around the option of purchasing a Microsoft PC or

an Apple Macintosh. Five colleges in Iowa were contacted about the dilemma, and a representative from each technology department gave his or her opinion.

Iowa State “For a media format, the Mac. It is definitely applicable with a lot more stuff (than PC). Although in

the professional world companies

strictly use PCs, Mac has started to become more common. A big

reason is because Word and Excel are now on Mac.”

-Leeland Miller, Customer Service (Computer Center)

Iowa

Northern Iowa

Drake

DMACC

“Both (Macintosh and PC) are ac-

Drake University supports both

“I have used both in my time

There is no preference, and (ac-

at UNI. Mac is good for graphic

is no preference, and (according

would have to say the Mac

policy) personal opinions are not

personal preference is the PC. It

was able to provide an opinion or

students.”

-Official University Policy

-Alex Schandle, Computer Tech

The University of Iowa supports both Macintosh and PC equally.

ceptable. There is support for both

cording to the official university

design, art, and media, But my

allowed. No one at the University

has better programs for college

comment.

Center

Macintosh and PC equally. There

to the official university policy)

personal opinions are not al-

lowed. No one at the University was able to provide an opinion or comment.

-Official University Policy

working at DMACC, but I

has proven to be superior to

the Dell I used to have, primarily because of speed and ease of use.”

-Joe Raziell, (DMACC Technology Center)

From pages to the screen

Recent/Upcoming Movies

words & layout Monisha Kumar

Alice in Wonderland Release Date: March 5th Based on: Alice’s Adventures In Wonderland

by Lewis Carroll

From the beginning of the cinema age many popular books have been turned into box office breaking movies and many have not. There have always been the religious readers who feel that movies do not always capture the essence of the details in the books and there are those rare circumstance the movies are truly more entertaining and easier to follow the original text.

Atonement

Lord of the Rings

Dear John

“The sound track is fabulous, which adds to the effect of the plot. The actors were cast splendidly; Keira Knightly and Saorise Ronan were perfect for their roles, and the cinematography was very well done. “

“The movies had more action than the parts I read. This is kind of obvious but it is easier to follow the action when you can see it happening.”

“I loved the movie more because when the main characters were reading the letters from each other you could see and hear the emotions they felt which helped to see the connection between them. Plus in the movie the ending is slightly different and makes you think there may be a sequel.”

-Kylie Kinsey ‘10

-Jake Klopfenstein ‘10

-Bailey Merritt ‘10

300 “The movie is much longer and has way more detail during the fighting scenes. In the book the end was just concentrated to the last page but in the movie you can see what lead up to it; the book was more suspenseful. Also the music added to the suspense. “ -Mitch Bruckshaw ‘11

The Last Song Release Date: March 31st Based on: The Last Song

by Nicholas Sparks Twilight Saga: Eclipse Release Date: June 30th Based on: Eclipse

by Stephenie Meyer Eat, Pray, Love Release Date: Aug. 2010 Based on: Eat, Pray, Love

by Elizabeth Gilbert

{ 10

March 10

1

i

mX

up your note-taking

2

practical

Creativity is key. Take them in different colors, use tabs, fun folders, put the most important thing in one color, details in another, or different topics in different colors. Mainly, just keep your notes organized.

Take notes in various ways. Draw pictures of what you’re learning, make diagrams.

5

read

ACTIVELY

While you’re reading, make any notes that come to your head. They don’t have to be intelligent notes, just what-

Don’t write every word that comes out of the teacher’s mouth. You’ll

ever pops into your head when you

know what’s important, usually they preface it with “this is really important

read it. Use sticky notes, or if it’s a pa-

…” or “it all boils down to…” or “WRITE THIS DOWN.”

per you can write on, circle, underline and fill the margins with every random thought inside your head. This way

GROUP WORK

you’ll be making connections and be-

(does not need to be counter-productive)

these ideas to keep everyone focused Competitions. Before you meet make up some kind of competition. Memorize vocab words and definitions, or havea race to finish math problems; whoever loses has to buy the other person’s drink or meal.

Kick the people out that cause the problems. It sounds mean, but if there’s one person always digressing the discussion just don’t invite them. If they do come, and everyone but them is trying to work, tell them to work.

Memory strategies

ROY G. BIV METHOD

Might seem dorky, but it works! When trying to remember a list in order, take the first letters and make a word, or a sentence using the first letters of the word.

}

p12/13

WAYS to raise your grades

Meeting to study at Panera or Starbucks usually turns into a gossip session instead of a study session. However try

3

double-truck

4

lieve it or not, it will help you remember what you read, and it’s hilarious to go

6

Get a FRONT ROW SEAT

If you pick seats in your class, pick a seat in the front row. You might miss out on catching up on last weekend’s drama with the friend you would chose to sit by. It will be easier to focus and you will be more engaged with the teacher.

back and read what you wrote.

8

Make your work look

pretty!

Often the appearance of a finished product is almost as important as the content. If it’s a project that took a lot of research and work, make sure it looks like it. Even if you didn’t work that hard on it, by making it look nice, it gives the illu-

EXTRA CREDIT

sion that it was hard work.

7Talk to your teacher When you get a paper back and don’t know why you got the grade you did, staring at it and

reading through it yourself probably won’t do much for you besides make you mad. Ask your teacher when a good time would be to talk before or after school, or during a free period.

When your teacher tells you what to improve on, you most likely won’t agree with him/her, but it doesn’t matter. On your next paper or project, go in and talk to them about it while going through the process. Ask every and any question. Take the constructive criticism; fix what they tell you to. Knowing that you worked hard on the process is often enough to bump you up a few points even if your paper isn’t significantly improved.

9

TEST TAKING STRATEGIES

IN CASE YOU FORGOT

Read through the whole test first Answer questions you know, then go back and do the hard ones.

JITTERS EFFECT A little caffeine is good for you, it will wake you up. Too much caffeine can work as a depressant or make recalling information harder instead of easier. Caffeine works better for tests

Go with your gut. After answering a question you’re not sure about, after you have studied hard for, however

you answer it the first time don’t go back and change it, you were more they make tests that you are clueless

10

than likely right the first time.

(11&12)

about even harder to do your best.

Debatable strategies (suggested by the internet) up for experimentation

The Rosemary and Peppermint Conjecture

Rosemary helps your brain with memory and recall and peppermint makes you more alert. Try putting the oils somewhere in your room where you study, and then bring a little “sachet” with the oils to class during the test. A barely noticeable aroma is all you need. No one else will even notice…probably.

The Divine Intervention Postulate

One Internet source with increasing grades swears by the cross around her neck. She grasps it and prays before each test, claiming it did in fact raise her testing average 15 percent.

The Eavesdropping Supposition

Listen to conversations between your classmates about the material. Not that you don’t do that already, now you have an excuse to. It helps make connections with what you are learning and makes recall easier.

compiled by Kallen Kramer

feature

March 10

Get to know W

B&

iz

qu

Name...

Friends call me...

p14

Matt DeFelice

[

]

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

words & layout Lauren Gehrke

My favorite cereal is...

My biggest pet peeve is...

I really like to...

One thing I want to do before high school is over is...

DeFelice finds an outlet with writing Knowing he has stuff to do, his mind rac-

ing, trying to keep his cool, senior Matt DeFelice sits down at his computer, his fingers

flying over the keys. He needs to get this

Felice said. “When I’m mad and I need to

vent, I either workout or write, depending on my energy level.”

His inspiration comes from other books

story out.

he has read and movies that he has

write) mostly fiction and I really like to write

enjoys reading and watching.

“I really like to write,” DeFelice said. “(I

detective stories.”

DeFelice writes when he is stressed,

when he is about to lose his temper, or just for fun.

“Being in really extroverted situations

watched. He wants to try to write what he

“Neuromancer, by William Gibson is my

chief inspiration,” DeFelice said. “Any book

by him has really given me inspiration to write my stories.”

If DeFelice has a story that seems to

gives me the need to write,” DeFelice said.

stand out, then he tries to complete it. But

work done, but if I really need to write, I’ll

hundred stories, but definitely in the double

“I’m usually pretty good about getting my put off school work.”

Writing was something that he started

doing four or five years ago. It helped him

express his feelings and tell a story that he felt should be told.

“I used to write and post stories on an

online group about four years ago,” DeFelice said.

As his interests changed, so did his sto-

ries. Looking back at the stories that he has

few have. He does not think he has hit one digits.

“(Writing) helps me get a story across,”

DeFelice said. “Sometimes the characters represent me in a certain way.”

He has only ever shown his dad one sto-

do not relate to his stories the same way

he does and they are not always into the same stuff.

DeFelice’s stories are either western or

cyberpunk in genre. Cyberpunk is a science

not have a good message.

ogy and dealing with the relationship be-

“I usually write every weekend,” De-

Senior Matt DeFelice loves to workout. It helps him get out his anger.

Working out and boxing give him a similar release that writing does.

ry and shown few friends one or two. They

already written, he deletes them if he does

not like them anymore or feels that they do

Lauren Gehrke/BW

stories have some sort of mystery in them.

difficult but he ties in his style as much as

he feels he just needs to tell a story.

he finishes high school. He plans on doing

He draws inspiration from his own life when

English, obviously, is DeFelice’s favorite

fiction genre and uses a lot about technol-

subject. Writing comes easy for him and he

tween humans and machines. Most of his

to write in a school paper is sometimes

excels in this class. Using the way he likes

possible. He wants to continue writing once something with editing or technical writing and he is going to attend DMACC. Writing

like this is something that DeFelice plans on trying to continue as a side project.

feature

March 10

p15

Say

hello to

Kerrick Staley words & layout Michael Knoedel

Kerrick Staley: many have heard of him,

band in tenth grade,” Staley said. All of Sta-

this school, that is. Staley is the top-ranked

or online. The graduation requirements for

but none truly know him, none who go to student of the senior class, victor of countless national math and science competitions and has never gotten anything but

an A his entire life. However, you will never

see him in the hallways, lunchroom or even in any classroom. In fact, Staley does not even take a single class at Johnston. Sta-

ley spends all of his time in class at Central Campus.

“I haven’t taken a class in Johnston since

and I’d have to take them at Johnston ev-

Staley also spends his time playing ten-

eryday.”

nis. “The one thing I wish is that Central

Johnston require every Johnston student

semester, including AP Econ. AP Bio and

like tennis and I play it often with my dad,

ment and at least one half-semester of P.E.

community and for himself. Staley has vol-

ley’s classes have been either at Central

to take at least one semester of GovernTo keep from having to travel to Johnston

every day for two classes, Staley takes

those two classes online over the summer.

“I don’t really mind,” Staley said. “Taking

those classes during the summer shortens my daily commute by about 30 minutes because Central doesn’t offer those courses

Staley is taking only AP courses this

AP Lit, but he still finds time to do for his

unteered to read to the blind, but in his free

had a sports program,” Staley said. “I really

but it would be too much of a hassle to join the Johnston team.”

Staley has been looking at colleges

time he prefers to just browse Facebook

heavy in math and science prestige like the

Central Campus,” Staley said. “Even if you

lon, but his first choice is Carnegie Mellon.

and talk to his friends. “People get along in live in a totally different area or are affiliated

with a different school, people are still very friendly.”

University of Chicago, MIT or Carnegie MelIn 10 years, Staley sees himself as a Carnegie Mellon graduate for math or computer science who has become a professor.

Jazz syndicate finds their niche; success

success has switched his gears to more jazz than he normally would have.

words & layout Jon Houp

The success they have accumulated

from the IBA rating has helped to keep the band motivated and to keep going strong.

A lot of us were in band in fifth grade, try-

“This year we really hit our stride,” Naig

ing out something new that we thought we might like. Some have persevered though

said.

Patrick Kearney’s jazz syndicate. This year

play at the University of Missouri- St. Louis

Jazz syndicate also will go to St. Louis to

it all and found a niche, earning a spot in

and play for the Jazz Education Internation-

they have earned the number 1 IBA (Iowa Bandmasters Association) rating, which is only given out to one high school band in

Jon Houp/BW

al Conference in May. Being chosen to play at this event is a very prestigious award

the country.

Junior Matthew Gulleen and senior Chris Oatts solo during rehearsal. Jazz syndicate consists of mostly seniors, making them strong and experienced.

been involved in band since fifth grade. “I

it brings. The friends also help her to get

want to contribute.”

gest in school history, but also one of the

great, it really kept me going,” Smith said.

syndicate, the varsity jazz band, has morn-

grade and in jazz band since seventh grade.

percent seniors.

in band, and she has met a lot of new

7am.

also studying classical piano for years prior

of her social connection. She really enjoys

volved due to the talents of those he plays

Junior Emma Smith is stuck it out and

really enjoy it, the directors are nice and

though the long morning practices. Jazz

Smith also enjoys having many friends

ing practice three times a week starting at

friends there also. She considers band part

Junior Kyle Naig feels obligated to be in-

playing the trumpet and the many rewards

with. “I feel so much talent,” Naig said. “I

Naig has also been in band since fifth

He has always found music to be his niche, to joining band.

While Naig generally focuses on the

classical side of music, jazz syndicate’s

and grants them national recognition.

The group is not only one of the stron-

most experienced consisting of about 50 The band feels prepared and ready to

go and do their best at the conference.

“We have so much music, there’s almost

too much music in our folders, but I personally feel ready,” Smith said.

feature

March 10

p16

Military school over regular school Junior Albaugh trades in a normal life for a bright future

words & layout Kevin Hu

Junior Alex Albaugh looks like any other

American teenager on a Sunday. He walks

into the local McDonald’s and orders his personal favorite double cheeseburger

meal. After getting his meal, he joins his

friends in scarfing down their fast food before heading to church service.

This may seem like an ordinary day for

him, but in reality, Albaugh’s trip to the local

McDonald’s is actually a luxury he can only participate in once a week.

“On Sundays, on the way to church, we

stop by McDonald’s. We’re not really sup-

posed to, but we’re signed out and it’s all cool,” Albaugh said. “It’s a really big deal,

because it’s a small bit of civilian life we can enjoy.”

He is actually enrolled in military school.

“I go to Wentworth Military Academy, in Lex-

ington, Missouri.” he said. “It’s been around since 1880 and it’s really traditional.”

Albaugh used to go to Johnston in eighth

grade and transferred to Dallas-Center

Grimes. From there, he enrolled into Wentworth this semester.

He notes the differences in attending the

two different districts. “DCG is really nice because it’s really small, and it’s more specialized and I got to do more things. Johnston’s a good school, and all my friends go there, but it’s also such a big school.

DCG might have an advantage since it’s smaller, kids can participate in more activities, smaller class sizes, better student to teacher ratio, but

Johnston does offer more classes, some that aren’t offered at DCG.” on

Albaugh decided enrolling

into

Wentworth for a va-

provided / Jordan Albaugh

Alex Albaugh and his mother on move-in day, in front of Wentworth Military Academy dormitories.

Wentworth looks great on college applica-

representing the United States, so it’s really

The school is not as tough as one might

Other parts of Wentworth are strict as

tions.”

think. “Certain parts are really strict, if you

do what you’re told,

“It’s your appearance because you’re representing the United States, so it’s really important to keep your uniform clean.”

- Alex Albaugh

riety of reasons.

“It’s mostly for college,” Alex said. “I was

thinking about maybe going to the Airforce

Academy, or the Coast Guard Academy.

Having a military background would help

me get selected for going into these academies, since they’re very competitive. And

even if I plan on going to other schools,

important to keep your uniform clean.”

well, all in regards to respect for elders and

other place. [The] motto at Wentworth is

‘send us a boy and we will send you home a leader.’”

Albaugh not living at home has its’ ef-

superiors.

fects on the whole family. “It is hard leav-

in trouble.” Albaugh

see a captain or higher rank, you have to

after [breaks] and the first week was bru-

have to be really re-

lute, you’ll get in trouble. I once didn’t salute

you don’t really get said. “Your rooms ally clean, and when

you march, you can’t be screwing around.

Everyone thinks we have to do push ups

“If you you’re walking to class and you

salute them.” Albaugh said. “If you don’t sato a captain, and I had to do 35 push-ups.

I didn’t think it was really fair since I was new, but he didn’t care, and I had to do them anyway.”

into the military.”

“I spent 4 years there and they were the

necessary to keep your uniform so perfect,

best 4 years of my youth.” Jordan Albaugh,

reason for the strictness.

at Wentworth have a strong ‘old boy’ pres-

“It’s your appearance because you’re

plishments have helped us deal with his absence.”

“I really miss my friends,” Albaugh said.

outside. I really miss being able to go to the

here for three years and he went straight

to students like Alex, they understand the

pride he has about himself and his accom-

went here, he graduated in ’77, he was

that. You have to iron your shirt, shine your Although many civilians think it is not

said. “But [he’s] happy as he is and the

“I have friends here, but I really miss be-

who has enrolled into Wentworth. “My dad

shoes, shine your bright buckles and stuff.”

tal, especially for my wife.” Jordan Albaugh

Albaugh isn’t the only one in the family

and sit ups and stuff, but it’s not really like

ing down there each time we take him back

Alex’s father, said. “The staff and teachers

ence, [you’re] drawn back there like no

ing able to go out and leave and have fun movies, go out and eat, but I don’t regret

my decision. The next five years of my life will determine my future. This is a crucial

period time of my life, and I have to take advantage of this time. Friends are great, but I need to be able to take advantage of the rest of my life.”

feature

March 10

p17

low down on the nutrition

words Kiera Morrill and Spencer Vasey layout Kallen Kramer

staff

Favorite part of the job: “When I see the kids getting breakfast all smiley, then I can say ‘we did something good today.’”

Background: Bajramovic was born in Bosnia, moved to Slavania when she was eight, and came to Des Moines at age 15. She has two children, a 9-year-old and a 3-year-old.

cold prep & detailed work

shawna heathcole

Favorite part of the job: “The fact that the students and staff are so appreciative of what we offer.”

Background: Stoebner is married with one daughter. He is an avid snow boarder and is a black belt in taekwondo. He grew up in Sheldon and after graduation attended the New England Culinary Institute.

Favorite dish to make at home: Chiles Rellenos, a Mexican dish consisting of skinned peppers filled with cheese and egg whites, and then fried.

Background: She has three kids ages six, 10, and 14. She can often be found playing “loteria,” a Mexican game similar to bingo.

She is originally from a small area about 45 minutes away from South Padre Island where she still has family.

Favorite part of the job: “The personalities I work with, they’re really easy going.”

Background: Heathcole is married with two kids, a 15-year-old and a 6-month-old.

She is originally from Waterloo and moved to Des Moines 17 years ago. She loves adventure and has been skydiving over five times. “(Skydiving) is so scary, but it is a lot of fun.”

a la carte

kitchen manager

cold prep & point of sale

cold prep

debbie hanauer

bo stoebner

carmen hernandez

senela bajramovic

renee topper

breakfast point of sale & hot lunch cook Favorite part of the job: “The relationships that you can develop with the kids if you take the time to get to know them and interact with them. I treat students like they are human beings. I mean, you are all kids to me, but you deserve a certain amount of respect.”

Background: Topper has two kids. Outside of the school, she coordinates large events for youth at churches in different towns ranging from Ames to Mason City.

cody robertson hot & cold prep

Fondest memory: Robertson is the self-proclaimed klutz. “I get burned a lot. I keep people entertained with my accidents.”

Background: He is a published artist and writer of short stories. Robertson has designed tattoos for several people. Currently, he is working on writing his first novel. One of his more interesting creations is a lifesized paper mache polar bear he made for his church.

Favorite memory: “We had a girl that used to spray everybody that walked into the dish room.”

Background: Hanauer graduated from Hoover High School.

She enjoys going frogging with her 9-year-old son at Greenwood Park and being in nature.

fashion

March 10

p18

get inked. words & layout Kelly McGowan & Liz Waller Tattoos are big in our culture. At the age of 18, you can

decide if you want to put a permanent image on your body.

When picking a shop, make sure it has a nice and clean envi-

ronment as that shows they are professional and serious about

Kami Ford

what they do. The first tattoo you get will probably have special meaning but while you’re sitting in the chair, know what you’re

Jammaris Holder

getting is what you want. Most people get tattoos for many reasons like in remembrance of someone, a family crest, or

“

My parents had the same one so I kinda wanted to get it as a family thing.

JB Williams ‘10

“

Its a tribal sun with a face in the middle, I drew it myself so nobody will ever have one just like it.

Dan Berry ‘10

“

But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength” I got this because it was my dad’s life verse. [And] Its my dad’s initials on my wrist.

Hannah Palmer ‘10

“

I got it as a symbol for my siblings, it has their initials in it [in a star.]

Kami Ford ‘10

“

A quote on the arch of my foot. I haven’t figured out [which quote] yet.

what would you get?

what does yours mean?

their favorite sports team.

Dan

a

ah P

Hann

lmer

Amber Solberg ‘11

“

The word patience in a foreign language because it’s something I try to live by.

Kara Anderson ‘11

Berr

y

“

My grandpa gave himself a tattoo with a bottle of India ink and a sewing needle.Its a beetle, I will get one like his.

Cal Gruening ‘12

“

A black widow showing my life is a web. And a kingdom key represents that I will rule my own life.

Jammaris Holder ‘11

things to consider

* Don’t worry about the pain, the most important thing is to get something you won’t regret. * Look at the artist portfolio to get an art style you like. * Choose where to go based on the look of the shop, if it is shady, don’t go there. * Listen to the artist, some ideas just don’t work. * All tattoos are going to fade, black outlines prevent this.

-Michael Watson, Iron Heart Employee

Kelly McGowan/BW

energy bars. healthy? not healthy? find out which bar is best to help fuel your day.

best snack

words & layout Julia Manning

Nature Valley calories- 90. protein- 4g

Clif bar calories- 230. protein- 10g

fat- 6g

SOYJOY calories- 130. protein- 4g

fiber- 3g -all natural whole soy **watch out for 11g of sugar!

longest lasting

fat- 3g all natural, no trans fat

Odwalla â&#x20AC;&#x153;SuperProteinâ&#x20AC;? calories- 210. pure soy protein- 16g 8 essential amino acids

ZONE perfect calories- 210 soy protein- 14g

sugar - 15g 100% DV vitamin E

Kashi GOLEAN CHEWY calories- 290 protein- 13g fiber - 6g made with 7 whole grains

WATCH OUT! Nutri-Grain raspberry calories- 130. protein- 2g sugar- 12g carbs- 24g

Special K Bar strawberry calories- 90. protein- 1g sugar- 9g carbs- 18g

Chex mix turtle bar calories- 130. protein- 2g sugar-11g

March 10

5

THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT COLLIN SCHARES

dungeon

p20

1.

WHY DID YOU START PLAYING TENNIS? At first my parents started me on it, but now I like playing and it’s a game I can play all my life. It’s easy enough for almost anyone to start and

doesn’t cost that much. Also it’s easy to learn

the game and play for fun. It gets more complicated if you want to keep score.

2.

WHAT DO YOU LIKE MOST ABOUT THE SEASON?

I like playing with all the other kids around the state.

3.

HOW DO YOU DEAL WITH PRESSURE BEFORE MEETS? I just try to laugh off

the pressure and talk

to myself to calm my

4.

nerves.

DO YOU PLAY YEAR ROUND OR JUST IN SEASON? I mostly play year around. In the winter I play inside then during the summer I now work up at Hyperion

with my coach, Leslie Shipp to help teach lessons to

AS TOLD TO RYAN SMAHA DESIGN BY BRENNAN WINGET AND JULIA MANNING

5.

younger kids.

DO YOU LIKE PREFER PLAYING SINGLES OR DOUBLES BETTER? When you play in pairs I feel that if I’m having an off day

then I let my teammate down. We have to trust each other and know what each other is good at and play to that,

otherwise you will be beat every time. It’s easier to lose in pairs if you and your partner haven’t played together before.

Collin Schares ‘11 returning state qualifier

sports

March 10

p21

New coach, new team With a new coach comes new programs for the track team

words & layout Matthew Knoedel & Ryan Smaha Track coach George Sypnewski has retired and made

have a better sense of responsibility for their event,” Jack-

has been the track coach for the last 33 years and his

more tightly-knit atmosphere where the athletes hold each

way for the new boy’s coach, Pat Mattingly. Sypnewski program had been well implemented and tested.

Coaches have their own specific styles and al-

son said. The purpose of the team captains is to create a other accountable for their actions and respect each other.

One of the unique changes this year is

though Mattingly is trying to make the transition

the mentor-mentee program for the seventh

change much, just the enthusiasm that is put forth among

intended to help out the younger generation

smooth, he is making a few changes. “I’m not trying to

and eighth grade runners. The program is

the athletes in the program,” Mattingly said. The three ma-

jor changes that have been started by Mattingly for the team is the use of the weight room, the appointment of captains, and the mentor-mentee program.

Mattingly

est in the program for the future. Mattingly

got the idea from the girls track team. “The

girls program implemented that [the mentor-

This year the weight room is becoming an integral part of

mentee program] and we copied what they did because it

on Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays to supplement the

Jackson also expressed positivity about the new pro-

the track program. Weight lifting is done three times a week

was successful,” Mattingly said.

running and other work-outs. The lifting helps to strengthen

gram. “I think it’s really cool. When I was younger there

addition, weight competitions take place to make work-outs

only two middle school coaches for a 90-kid team, so hav-

the runner’s muscles and increase their overall fitness. In more fun. The competition’s take place between squads of

athletes from different events. For example, the distance runners challenge the sprinters, hurdlers challenge the

wasn’t as much coaching because of the fact there was ing someone who knows what it takes to be successful at the varsity level is really nice to have,” Jackson said.

Mattingly is excited about being the new coach and is

discus throwers, etc. This includes the towel hang which

prepared for the upcoming season. There aren’t any major

yourself up as long as possible. Mattingly plans to make

make the athletes into better runners and better people.

is where you wrap a towel around the bar and try to hold

Sophomore Alex Peterson prepares for the season by running along NW 62 Avenue during a March 5 practice.

of runners so that they can stimulate inter-

the weight room a permanent change.

Another thing that Mattingly is implementing is captains

for each event. One for long jump, high jump, distance

expectations for the team this year but Mattingly hopes to “My goals for the team are to have fun, learn, and have the kids do as well as they can possibly do,” Mattingly said.

The varsity track team begins its season on April 2 when

runners, and short distance runners. Junior Drew

it attends the Ankeny Track Invitational for Mattingly’s of-

captains are a good idea and make the track team more

appreciate any fans willing to make the trek out to Ankeny

Jackson, one of these captains, believes that squad

like a family. “The team captain idea makes the players

ficial debut as head coach of the team. The team would to support the team.

Fitness Sports Where runners get their shoes For runners, there are many options for selecting the

Fitness Sports has a specialized team of customer rep-

right shoe for them. While for some it may be a large chain

resentatives that are all runners or athletes themselves.

are finding themselves at a small, family owned business

“We get a lot of cross country coaches. They care as much

like Scheels or Sports Authority, more and more runners called Fitness Sports.

Steve Bobenhouse, the owner of Fitness Sports, start-

Bobenhouse prefers to hire those who run themselves. as the athlete about their shoes,” Bobenhouse said.

Fitness Sports not only provides shoes for people who

ed his business on University Ave in Clive. Fitness Sports

care about the way they look, but the build of their foot. “We

athlons unlike other stores that don’t necessarily have one

Bobenhouse said.

is specialized for runners in cross country, track, and triarea of expertise.

“That’s what we focus on, track shoes and running

shoes,” Bobenhouse said, “All people are trained to help fit people’s shoes.”

care that the shoe performs well for the specific person,” Bobenhouse offers special discounts to runners in high

school who are part of the track or cross country team. “I was a high school athlete myself and I like to work with those who are part of a team,” Bobenhouse said.

Matt Knoedel/BW

Fitness Sports sells shoes like this, the Nike Structure Triax IZ, for $75, while competitors like the Nike outlet store charge up to $80 dollars. Fitness Sports works with the athlete to find a shoe that fits their foot structure.

JUST FOR KICKS sports

March 10

After training for the past eight years,

an altogether intimidating figure; she looks

Sabus is currently a first degree black belt

But looks can be deceiving.

in the martial arts discipline of Taekwondo.

This may seem like an unusual sport for

a teenage high school girl to participate in,

but Sabus has been interested in this long before she walked these halls.

“We always would go to my aunt’s

like just your average high school senior.

Brooker began training in the art of Tae-

kwondo roughly seven years ago.

Now

a first-degree black belt, Brooker trains

around four times a week for her seconddegree test.

“Its probably the best sport I’ve ever par-

house,” Sabus said, “she lived right next

ticipated in,” Brooker said. One thing that

used to be at, we always would drive by it

tition aspect.

to the old Urbandale location that Farrell’s and I would always point at it and I’d always

Brooker has found she loves is the compe“Because of back problems, I don’t fight

ask my mom if we could go there.”

at tournaments, I just do our routines, as

times a week with her father, who is also

sword, nunchucks,” Brooker said. She is

Currently Sabus trains two to three

a first-degree black, in preparation for her second-degree black belt testing that will be taking place sometime this April.

Michelle Brooker: Taekwondo

Senior Michelle Brooker does not strike

junior Carlee Sabus is ready for just about

anything life can throw at her, literally.

Carlee Sabus: Taekwondo

p21

well as weapons, (like) the Bō Staff, Kama, a perfect example of the common phrase,

don’t judge a book by its cover, and in this case, mainly because this book can take you down.

words Philip Mortens & Evan Culbert layout Kallen Kramer

Jon Coen: Mixed Martial Arts Senior Jon Coen makes it a priority to watch every punch,

or a at a vacant gym with his trainer. After learning the

Fights

Championship) event. After being introduced to the sport

work. “(Training includes) some grappling, which is either

a “Fight Card” which includes 12 semi-pro or amateur

or kickboxing,” Coen said. “Conditioning is a big part of it

“The adrenaline is crazy,” Coen said. “I usually listen to

and boxing. Training also includes sparring, or fighting with

boxing and stretch out to get a little sweat going.” Coen

kick, and elbow thrown in each UFC (Ultimate Fighting

by Iowa native and MMA (Mixed Martial Arts) professional Jeremy Stephens, Coen decided that merely watching

the fights wasn’t enough. As summer rolled around, Coen

made the decision to begin training for local amateur MMA events held at Uncle Buck’s, with the help of a trainer, and Des Moines MMA.

basics from his trainer, he moved on to more advanced

Each Wednesday night in the summer Uncle Buck’s hosts

wrestling or jiu-jitsu, and then some stand up, either boxing

fights consisting of three rounds each five minutes long.

too, and weightlifting.” Coen specializes in Brazilian jiu-jitsu

some hardcore music before a fight, and I touch up on my

pads.

won his first match in barely 30 seconds after his opponent

succumbed to his guillotine choke. He also broke the other

MMA

fighter’s nose with a blow to the face. During the fight, met-

In 1993, UFC introduced the U.S. to an organized fight-

ro MMA promoter Joey Ashbee noticed Coen’s potential,

such as jiu-jitsu, boxing, grappling, wrestling, sumo, and

Semi-Pro

with tournaments held locally across the nation. “Every-

summer. He trains four to five days a week, and has been

ent levels, whether it be amateur, semi-pro, or pro.” Last

was middle weight, but I’m moving up this summer to 205,

Buck’s rules. “You can either win by knockout, or technical

semi-pro, where he can earn up to four figures a match.

said. “You can win by submission, which is a lock or choke,

to watch prospects at the amateur level, if they see a good

ing league consisting of multiple forms of martial arts

and asked him to begin training on his team, Secret City.

karate. The sport has experienced tremendous growth,

Coen has already begun training to prepare for fights this

one has different rules,” Coen said. “Especially on differ-

weightlifting to gain weight. “I was fighting at 185 lbs. which

summer Coen competed on the amateur level with Uncle

which is light-heavyweight,” Coen said. He hopes to fight

knockout, which is where the ref calls the winner,” Coen

“You need to know the right people,” Coen said. “Scouts go

where the opponent taps-out.” The audience may decide the winner if the match is over, or if one opponent gets knocked out, they lose.

Training

In the month and a half leading up to his first fight, Coen spent six days a week training either at Des Moines MMA,

JON COEN Height: 6’2” Weight: 205 lbs.

Move: Guillotine Choke Team: Secret City

fighter who will put on a good show, they will ask them to

go semi-pro.” With Ashbee as a promoter, and Secret City

for training, the goal is very possible. The only obstacle remaining are his parents, who disapprove of the sport. “(My

parents) hate it,” Coen said. “They’re not very supportive when it comes to fighting.”

sports

March 10

p23

Snow creates conflict As tennis season approaches, alternatives may be needed for practice words & layout Blake Schlawin Every February, while everyone is wor-

there as a part of meets, which is about $12 per round. Plaza doesn’t charge.

Any rumors of the tennis teams traveling

rying about when the warm weather will

together for a few weeks to Aspen fitness

wondering when they’ll see that shade of

pen is not a school facility.

come, tennis coaches and players are green they’re so used to playing on. This

center for practices are false because As“All regular practices must be held in,

winter, snow covered the tennis courts with

or on, the school’s regular practice facility.

“Our first meet is only two weeks after

normally practice in or on,” Alan Beste, As-

over three feet.

spring break,” senior Morgan Foldes said.

“So we need all the practice we can get in order to be ready to play.”

Schools cannot rent a facility they do not sistant Executive Director of the Iowa High School Athletic Association said.

Students could play at Aspen without

The main issue that comes with the idea

any issue, but a school-sponsored practice

be covered. As of right now, no one knows.

to the ISHAA, under normal conditions,

of clinics inside is cost and how they would Some players think that the school should pay since it’s a school-sponsored event.

“I am willing to pay up to a certain

amount,” Foldes said. “However, I hope my

parents will pay considering I am saving for school.”

Bowling and golf both practice outside

of the campus but both Jester and Plaza

Lanes are school facilities, since we do not

must be on our “school” facility. According

(including tennis courts being covered with snow in the spring) all practices are to be

held in, or on, the local school facility. Any deviation from this rule must be approved by the Board of Control.

“We’re hoping that the sun and rain will

wash off most of the snow so it won’t be an issue,” Activities Director Gary Ross said.

In past years, the school plowed a path

have the practice facilities. Golf athletes

along the fence for students to walk through,

but the school pays for the teams that play

that have been growing in the courts.

have to buy a season pass for practices,

they recently haven’t because of the cracks

Kyle Soyer/BW

The Bobcat plows the snow off the tennis courts. They are very careful not to scrape the courts. This will help get rid of the rest of the snow.

“Shoveling has been frowned upon be- already been involved with others on the

cause the surface could be damaged,” Var- team and working outside of school to get sity tennis coach Ben Knight said.

Although the weather seems to be bring-

ready for this season.

“Just recently, we have started having

ing the technical game down, it isn’t bring- a clinic on Sundays where everyone is ining down the player’s game. Many have vited,” Heil said.

Experience fuels new rivalry: Boy’s soccer team fired up by traveling trophy est and Urbandale is just a rivalry, they are not as strong as

words & layout Michael Carlson

they were last year,” senior Jake Perington said.

To help breed this rivalry with Hoover and Urbandale,

A new traveling trophy comes on the field this year

Head coach Heath Weeks has set up a traveling trophy be-

to help motivate the familiar returning line up. The trophy

tween the three schools. “We’re hoping that this traveling

will travel between Johnston, Urbandale and Hoover high

trophy will fuel the rivalry between the tree teams, and we

schools.

are pumped for it,” Mead said.

“We are more experienced, a lot of the guys have var-

The team is motivated to make it to state. The trophy

sity experience,” varsity assistant coach Dustin Mead. The

should help the team try and get pat their last minute loss in

team has a lot of returning players and a lot of underclassmen with the hunger to do well.

Senior captain Sam Reed thinks that the Johnston Ur-

bandale Soccer Club teams capturing the state cup championships this provided a new level of experience for underclassman. “There is a lot more talent possibly coming

up that can help us get this new trophy,” Reed said. For the past two years the freshmen teams have only lost a single game. The underclassmen will help the varsity team

the playoffs last year. To help them get ready for the seaJulia Manning/BW

Sophmore Josh Dicken goes after the ball during the 2009 season game against Dowling on May 1st. with the achieve their goals, since competition only pushes

players to do better. Fierce rivalries span through competition and good matches. “Valley and Ankeny are the tough-

son, the team has had the morning practices on Tuesdays

and Thursdays. “We have some indoor teams at Sportsplex West,” Reed said. The work at Sportsplex and the morning practices are trying to improve the overall team

experience. The additional practice is giving the team increased confidence in their chances at state. With regular

season practices underway this week they will begin their work to do just taht.

Van Dee’s backpage

March 10

p24

words Ian Dunshee and Julia Manning layout Andy Halterman

the history behind the treasured local landmark Before the schools, the fire department,

Since then, Carol Vanderlinden and her

the store now offers a large variety of food

around it. “ It will just stay a local home town

to turn the small ice cream shop into a local

well as food items including beef burgers,

said. “There’s nothing wrong with that. It’s

sweet tasting treats remain popular during

it, not too fancy.”

cookie sandwiches and blitzes are the most

from, or how you were raised, VanDee’s Ice

The shop has become the favorite sum-

and hearts (and love handles) of those that

bikers, couples and friend groups to relax

fun little place,” Vanderlinden said. “We’re

delight, the ice cream shop won’t be going

you can’t say it’s all just Van Dee’s because

Still deep in its humble origins of public-

community is as much of VanDee’s as

housing developments, Hyperion, and all

husband, with the help of relatives, managed

only a few buildings. A post office, auto-

“must-have” location for a summer treat.

of our other favorite Johnston spots, stood

mechanic shop, oil company, Hy-Vee, the

“We’ve been here long enough to watch

Four Corner Feed, a few “houses”, and of

all (of) you kids grow up.” Vanderlinden said.

The shop originally opened in 1956,

ried, and then they end up bringing their kids

course...Van Dee’s Ice Cream Shoppe.

where it simply sold the soldiers that rode

the now unused inter-urban railroad out of

“We’ve had people first meet here, get mar-

took over the shop.

just a family place and that’s the way we like

the scorching Iowa summers. “The ice cream

So no matter who you are, where you’re

mer hang out spot for sports teams, families,

have ever visited Johnston. “It’s just a nice

others, is the ice cream itself, with those cute

and enjoy the summer. Much to everyone’s

fortunate it’s still here and it’s done well, and

anywhere.

it’s not, it’s the people that come here. The

ity by word-of-mouth, VanDee’s will cease

VanDee’s is the community. You just simply

sugar eyes of course. “It’s all natural. We

the present owners the Vanderlinden family

walking tacos and fries. Although, the cool

On the long list of unchanging homemade

here. It’s really cool.”

classic ice cream cone. It was made and which was the entirety of the shop. In 1989

ice cream shop, just like it is,” Vanderlinden

Cream Shoppe will forever be in the minds

pleasures that distinguishes the store from

served from the front room of VanDee’s

ranging from their specialty frozen treats, as

ordered.” Vanderlinden said.

a service window. In those days, only one item existed on the VanDee’s menu: the

photos providedl/Carol Vanderlinden

don’t use artificial ingredients here,” Vanderlinden said. “It’s healthier for our customers, so we make everything.”

Coming a long way from a one item menu,

to change despite the ever-changing world

can’t have one without the other.”