BW the black and white
the black and white. March. 2011. volume 19 issue 7. 5152780449. 6501 NW 62nd ave. johnston. iowa one copy free
in this issue march four Read about a new $1000
ten-eleven Read about school board’s
scholarship in Sheri Walling’s
recent vote on calendar chang-
members.
cussions.
name, available for swim team
es and the “Mega-School” dis-
fourteen Well dressed guys of John-
seventeen Three students tell about
ston are featured on the fashion
the experiences that they’ve
and how they came about.
their hobby or job.
page. Learn about their styles,
gone through with modeling as
h
rc a M
*THE BLACK & WHITE
1 1 0 2
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Kelsey Kruse
News 3 4
Relive the past month through photos Mandsager family establishes new scholarship in Shari Walling’s Name News briefs
Opinion 5 6 7
School board discusses time change That’s what Shi said: present and future School board approves new start date Life without Facebook Freshman feel left The Megaschool
OPINION Kristine Hayes
in this issue...
Is No Child Left Behind really helping?
Review 9 The B&W figured out how long gum actually keeps its flavor
Doubletruck Entertainment
FEATURE Lauren Coffey
12 Men’s roller derby in Des Moines
Fashion
13 Guys who really know how to dress
FASHION/HEALTH Spencer Vasey
Health 14 Make sacked lunch fun and delicious
SPORTS Ryan Smaha
Feature
Don’t make Mr. Yenger angry! Student’s videos go viral
BACKPAGE Ethan Meng
16 Andrew Tubbs 17 Students that model
Sports
DISTRIBUTION MANAGER Ian Dunshee
18 Dungeon: The Scanlan brothers 19 Behind the Interlude Full Court Press: March Madness
Backpage
20 Photo art students showcase their work
3
12
5
17
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EDITORIAL Zach Winjum ENTERTAINMENT/REVIEW Evan Culbert
10-11 School board makes changes
15
PHOTO EDITOR Michael Knoedel NEWS Mike Shi
Editorial 8
DESIGN EDITOR Kelly McGowan
10
20
STAFF WRITERS Isabella Engblom, Wes Monroe, Alexa Anderson, Sarah Margolin, Mallorie Goodale, Ashley Enger, Elisabeth Lowe, Mirza Besic, Chris Coble, Hannah Soyer, Paige Cramer, Taylor Mithelman & Ashley Shay Illustrators Rosemarie Freymark, Trevor Fisch & Austin Smoldt-Saenz 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. 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.
on the cover: An art study done in Photo Art II photo credit: Mason Johnson
news
march 2011
the b&w p.3
1 2 4
3
March in photos Mike Shi/BW
layout Kelly McGowan
1
Senior Geneva Mongar from French Club makes
a flower out of tissue paper at the Cultural Party held
on Feb. 21. The party had the Asian Cultures Club, the
Spanish Club and the French Club all join together to
share food, talk about their culture and have fun. The Spanish Club taught the other students how to make Spanish-esque “flowers� out of paper tissue
2
Junior Chase Wallace, Senior Greg Schultz, Senior
Jacob Bennett, Karim Hodzic and Senior Joel Wittman
Kristine Hayes/BW
play hockey in Track 3. Track 3 plays hockey as part of
the team sports curriculum. The students play hockey for the first few weeks of March until Spring Break.
Lauren Coffey/BW
3
Sophomore Josh Boeshen auditions for the Music
Man musical on March 1. Auditions were from Feb. 28 to March 4. This is the first time in 35 years that Johnston is
having a musical. Opening night will be on May 12 and will run until May 14. Boeshen was cast as the farmer.
4 Paige Plaskitt/BW
Senior Dellanie Couture creates art in Drawing 1
class. Drawing 1 is a class taught 4th and 5th period taught by Mr. Weiss. Right now they are learning to draw
with charcoal. Students learn about how to make a composition by using different types of methods.
the b&w p.4
news
march 2011
Family establishes scholarship in Walling’s name words & layout Elisabeth Lowe When senior Hank Mandsager climbed out of the Mar-
shaltown pool at State Swimming in February after racing
in the 400 free relay, 18 years of coach Shari Walling having a Mandsager on her swim team ended.
The Mandsagers, a family of seven, decided to estab-
lish a scholarship in Walling’s name. The $1000 scholarship will be awarded annually until year 2030. It will be presented at class day to a male or female swimmer chosen by the Dollars for Scholars Foundation who demonstrates excellence in both character and school.
Walling was taken by surprise when it was announced
at the Swim Team Banquet that the Mandsager family had created a scholarship in her honor.
Athletic director Gary Ross, opened up the banquet with
the words, “Swimming is very much a family sport.” And after having coached girls’ and boys’ swim team for more than 24 years, Walling has seen her fair share of siblings. She has not, however, seen another Mandsager family.
Hank is the last of the five Mandsager children to swim
for Walling. “I felt a lot of pressure to be a swimmer,” Hank said. Once resentful of the sport, he soon found himself
wanting to join the swim team. He stayed on the swim team for five years.
Meghan Mandsager, the eldest of the Mandsager chil-
dren, said, “I also swam for Shari my junior and senior
years. Unlike the rest of my family, I am not a very fast swimmer but, Shari didn’t mind. I worked really hard and
managed to earn a varsity letter both years. I am still really proud of those letters.”
Very few coaches get to know their athletes the way
Walling does. Nearly every morning from 5:30 am to 7 am,
she stands at the sidelines while JV1 and Varsity swim laps. Then once more in the evening.
The Mandsagers only represent five of the hundreds of
students that have swam for Walling, but the positive influ-
ence she has had on all of her athletes is clear. “(Walling) has had a big impact on my life,” junior Joe Farrell said, “She definitely earns your respect.”
The impact she has made can also be seen in all that
the swim team has accomplished. The boys and girls swim-
ming teams were regional team champions for the years 2004, 2007, 2008 and 2009. They were district champions for the years 2007, 2008, 2009 and 2010.
The establishment of the scholarship was bitter-sweet.
“I’m not gonna have anymore Mandsagers,” Walling chuckles, tears welling up in her eyes. “I’m going to have to hangout a long time to see their kids.”
Revised professional development day
news briefs
NB
Photo by Neil Mandsager
The Mandsager family with swimming coach Shari Walling. From left to right; Kyle, Maddie, Shari Walling, Meghan, Grant and Hank (behind)
words & layout Lauren Coffey
Contracts for prom
On March 6, the
out of school before memorial day.
when buying prom tick-
fic is commuters. Bike,
pretty much entails you
carpool to school if you
One-third of all traf-
will not dance inappro-
can; use alternative
cil member Cal Greuning
possible. If you have to drive, keep your
can’t do anything you wouldn’t do in
gas mileage out of your car. Drive slower.
ceive a warning after the first violation,
and lives. During March 23-28, there is a
second time.
enviornmental club.
day,
priately,” student coun-
April 11, into a school day. This will make
this because this will allow students to get
March: Commuting Green
use public transit or
a former professional
this year. The school board decided to do
There is now a con-
ets. “It’s a contract that
bers decided to make
up for the snow day the school had earlier
Tip of the month
tract all students receive
school board mem-
development
The Mandsagers
Years swam and preferred stroke 1994-1996 Meghan Breast stroke 1996-2000 Grant Distance Freestyle 2000-2004 Kyle Sprinter 2007-2009 Maddie Sprinter 2006-2011 Hank Sprinter
transportation
when
said. “The way I see it, you basically
tires properly inflated so you get the best
front of your parents.” Students will re-
It lowers emissions, and saves fuel, tires,
and will be removed from the dance the
Carpool to School Week being held by the
opinion Proposal poses
the b&w p.5
march 2011
problems
School board discusses new start times words & layout Evan Culbert As the bell rings at 2:50 p.m., junior Zach Vander Ploeg
heads to his part-time job at First Assembly of God daycare. Vander Ploeg and other working students may lose an hour of work after school each day if a proposal passes.
The proposal being discussed by the school board
Michael Knoedel/BW
would flip the secondary and elementary school hours so
Girls track members huddle up during practice on March 4. Practices usually last until about 5:00. If the recent start-time proposal gets passed, all after school activities would end later.
and would be released nearly an hour before secondary
in extra-curricular activities, many taking place after school.
not sound like much but over time it adds up to a signifi-
it is very possible that it will become a reality in the next few
would start an hour later. If after-school activities get out
each day after school, he would lose about $1,440 if the
In theory, the start time changes are aimed at reduc-
homework gets done an hour later, students end up in bed
been quite a bit of research that has been done,” school
and even though they get to sleep in that extra hour, that
teens on average need about eight-and-a-half to even nine
Let’s say productivity increases substantially among
that elementary schools would begin the school day first
cant amount. If a student who makes $8 an hour works
students. At this point the topic is just a discussion item, but
If students get released an hour later, after-school activities
years. If it does, a number of problems would arise.
an hour later, homework gets pushed back an hour later. If
ing stress and increasing productivity in students. “There’s
an hour later than they would with the current schedule,
board member Mike Farrell said. “Research shows that
adds up to the same amount they’re getting now.
later it progresses into this year, the less likely the proposal
plus hours of sleep at night to run at optimal performance.”
students, and they get more of their homework done dur-
isn’t anything up for approval this upcoming meeting or the
into research done by two school districts in Minnesota, no-
the evening, especially for those in sports and other after
start time back to 8:40, and found positive results, most
by 7:00, taking away from family meals and time spent to-
the school day. Don’t get me wrong, I love sleeping, and
for athletes. If teams leave at 1:30 for a game, that means
The school board and administration have been looking
ing the day. Getting out an hour later takes a chunk out of
tably Minneapolis and Edina. Edina moved the high school
school activities. Many athletes would not make it home
notably in attentiveness and productivity of students during
gether. Traveling to away competitions is another negative
the results of the study speak for themselves.
missing over two hours of school.
is an active community with hundreds of students involved
hour of work each day if the proposal took effect. That may
The biggest problem with the proposal is that Johnston
what
That’s
Students who hold part-time jobs would also lose an
What about the here and now?
schedule is changed. That’s a big chunk of cash. Even if he worked an hour later at night to make up the difference, that’s back to the problem again.
Although this proposal is a possibility for next year, the
will be voted on. “This is purely just a discussion item, this
following at this particular time,” Farrell said. “Administra-
tion is going to continue to look into the research to see if the change is something we want to consider making within our district.”
The school board is aware of the problems the proposal
presents, and is looking at ways it could possibly work.
An extra hour of sleep would be beneficial for growing
students, but unless the negatives that accompany the benefits could be resolved, the change is not worth it.
in college it’ll be ~. That may be all fine and dandy, but what about the present?
say things will happen, but they never actu-
sans JHS, but in the time we have now,
my history teachers always talked about
why can’t we just focus on that? Now. By focusing so much on preparing us for life
after high school, we’ve neglected life during high school. Every policy and guideline
is written like it’s for the real world, which high school obviously is not. No late work
said words Mike Shi
Illustration/Rosemarie Freymark
dle School. JHS. During my time at these
schools, they’ve always preached the same
thing: we’re preparing you for your future. In elementary school, it was X. In middle
school, it was Y. In high school, it’s Z. And
Of course, it doesn’t help when teachers
The future is important, I get that, in
fact, I can’t wait until I can get to a future
Wallace. Beaver Creek. Summit. Mid-
in our bubble, and what’s wrong with that?
ever, you can never be late for class, etc. If any of this happens in the real world they
ally do. I remember back in middle school
dates. I personally won’t make you memorize dates, they said, but in the high school
you’ll have to. Well hey, what do you know, I’m in high school and I’ve never had to remember a date. With so much emphasis on
the future, you’d think they’d at least point us in the right direction.
I know what the teachers must be think-
say, you’ll never survive. But, get this, we’re
ing, ‘who does this kid think he is? he’ll just
we may wish so. We’re still growing and
of high school.’ Well, that may be so, but
teenagers, not adults, no matter how much learning, the real world is something we
face when we get there, for now, we’re still
fall on his face the moment he gets out I’d rather fall on my face than be worrying about retirement at the ripe age of 22.
opinion
march 2011
the b&w p.6
Save the date New start date begins school earlier than ever before
cause the second semester to start while Central Campus will still be wrapping up its first semester. The problems with that are pretty blatant.
Not to mention school will now overlap with the Iowa
State Fair. The fair takes place Aug. 12-22 and is
words & layout Mirza Besic It’s official. Come August, if you feel like your summer
break was shorter than usual, check the calendar. School starts about a week-and-a-half sooner next year: Aug. 15.
The main reason for the date change is to get finals
in before winter break. There have been complaints from
parents and students about having to study during winter break for finals, usually held the second week of January.
The board issued a survey to parents to determine if
they would prefer having their students’ finals before or af-
ter winter break. The majority expressed the opinion that they wanted finals before the break. Here’s the kicker; the
parents had no idea that in order to squeeze finals in before the break, school would be started that much earlier.
I don’t mind having a holiday break before finals. As if I
actually lug 3,000 pages of textbook home to study during my week off. Get real. We have an entire week of school before finals to actually start to study, and I use that to my full advantage. No way I’m going to study over my break from school.
If you have a Central Campus class in the afternoon of
next semester, get down to the guidance office and change your schedule as soon as you can. The new start date will
popular among students. The new start date will give students three
weekdays to hit up the fair be-
fore school starts, besides the
two weekends. Junior Catherina
Ochoa spends those middle days
of August working at the fair with
her family at a food stand. “Work-
ing at the stand is a big deal for my
family,” Ochoa said. “The plan right
now is for me to work 4 to 11 on the
days I’ll have school where I usually wouldn’t.”
Kaitlyn Aldrich, a politically ac-
tive junior, spoke at the board meet-
ing where the board voted 6-1 to start
school earlier. “Everyone’s schedule is
going to get messed up,” Aldrich said.
“Seniors are going to have to come back
after they graduate just to take their AP
tests. Fall sports and marching band
camps are going to be messed up. It’s all just ridiculous.”
Illustration/Rosemarie Freymark
Avoiding the disconnect: Facebook words & layout Ethan Meng
The one thing I find a little funny is even
a society, we are getting closer to the day
conversation where I could easily explain
it is just hidden from everyone else. All one
more prominent than those done in person.
teenagers having to talk to someone in per-
though I deleted my account, it is still there; needs to do to reactivate an account is type in the old username and password they used before.
Once this is done, everything including
Illustration/Austin Smoltz-saenz
posts, pictures and pokes that were there from the beginning pop up like you never
Hello, my name is Ethan, and it has
even left. I understand it is set up this way
withdrawals have all disappeared and my
come back, but why not just make a new
can say that I am free.
for months now, I am still forever tied down
where Internet conversations will become “Long term socialization is going to suffer,”
psychology teacher Jason Jauron said.
ready gone.” Jauron himself does not have
once, everyone needs to go without their
tact or manners, in fact, manners have alan account and believes Facebook takes
away the important communication that
life is back to the way it was before. Now I
account? Even being away from Facebook
are much more willing to talk over the In-
in some way to the site.
Without having a Facebook, I have been
Concerns that some people have an
my ankle that is Facebook. Without it I feel
addiction with this site seem to show up
the compulsive need to check my phone or
to sacrifice face-to-face conversations for
a sense of freedom knowing I don’t have
in our daily lives. More people are willing
computer for updates on my friends’ lives.
those that can be held over Facebook. As
Even though Facebook is a useful tool
that is integrated in what both adults and
so if people change their minds they can
For the last few months it has been nice
son is almost scary and unnerving.
“There’s not going to be any more eye con-
been four months since I last used. The
not having the constant cyber chain around
what I needed. It seems in most cases for
people will actually remember.
One thing I have noticed is that people
ternet and seem to be more shy in person.
teenagers do today, but I think for at least
account for at least a week. However, I don’t honestly think that people will do this because Facebook seems to be a way of fitting in with others, but I suggest the idea
in hopes that people will realize they rely on the site too much.
“Facebook is a status symbol kind of
forced to do all of my socializations with
like Under Armour, you’ve got to have that
Even getting permission to use a photo for
ingly to be a teen you need to wear your
friends in either person or over the phone. another story went from what would have been a message on Facebook to a phone
brand on everyday,” Jauron said. “Seembrand names and Facebook is one of those things that you have to drag with you.”
opinion
march 2011
the b&w p.7
Freshmen feel forgotten words & layout Sarah Margolin Phoebe Cooper walks to the GSA (gay
When freshmen sign up for classes in
straight alliance) club meeting after school.
eighth grade they look at all the things that
sophomores to seniors. But no freshmen.
for sophomores and older. It’s not hard for
The club has a range of students from
“(Freshmen) are included, but they aren’t
informed,” junior Phoebe Cooper said. “It’s hard when you don’t have classes together or the same announcements.”
seem like fun and then realize that it says
freshmen to walk over to the high school
for journalism, so why aren’t there more classes like that?
But, the classes aren’t the only prob-
Freshmen are excluded from clubs, ad-
lem, it can sometimes be the teachers. In
homecoming, a variety of elective classes,
you pass everything forward to turn in, or
vanced classes, fundraisers, pep rallies, and student council.
There are 26 high school clubs in all.
Twenty of those clubs are offered to freshmen. Upper classmen don’t make a conscious effort to include freshmen. They
high-school, teachers don’t usually have give you make-ups on every test you take.
High school is pretty much a one-shot deal.
Junior Brandi Bolken has first hand experience with this.
“I failed a test and asked for a retake,”
may be allowed to join, but a freshmen isn’t
Bolken said. Her history teacher Jessie
knowing the invitation is there. It may be as
pared. “I thought I was,” Bolken said.
going to come to the high school without simple as posting signs at both schools.
Dowell told her she should have been preIt may only be a parking lot away, but
After eighth grade most people are look-
from the middle school to the high school
What they don’t realize, is that they will
for the transition seems to be lacking. Soph-
ing forward to finally being in high school.
have to wait until the next summer to finally
have that title. Sure, they may be a “freshman” but really they are tenth graders still in the middle school. To most it doesn’t
even feel any different than last year, until they try to sign up for classes.
is a world of difference, and the preparation
omore Sarah Lewis doesn’t think being a freshmen in the middle school prepares one for high school at all. “They baby you, they
hold your hand through everything, and ev-
eryone says it,” Lewis said, “Get ready for next year, that’s all I can say.”
Mega-school makes sense Picture yourself walking down a hallway in the middle
to greater learning and an upgrade in the high school expe-
brown doors onto pavement and into the parking lot, but
First and foremost, the freshmen would be a part of the
proach the place where you would normally walk out of the
rience as well as performance for all students.
instead the hallway continues on. Perhaps there’s a media
high school, a much needed change. When students fin-
Suddenly, you realize you’re no longer in the middle school,
starting high school. A whole year of high school seems to
center to your left, or a performing arts facility to your right.
ish eighth grade, most are ready for and looking forward to
but the high school; where a real freshmen belongs.
be misplaced amongst all of the middle school nonsense.
to say the least. The proposal has been discussed by a
tractions and a learning environment lacking individualized
It can be argued that a large school would create dis-
committee of faculty, parents, students and administration.
attention. However, a larger school increases competition
create a 9-12 comprehensive high school,” superintendent
Some have brought up the idea of two high schools,
“The proposal is to utilize the JMS and JHS buildings to
for that top GPA, therefore students will perform better.
Clay Guthmiller said.
due to the projected growth of the district. Although we are
is that the middle school and high school could be formed
don’t have endless amounts of land for continued growth.
Although no final decisions have been made, the idea
words & layout Wes Monroe
into a campus containing grades 9-12. This idea could lead
school, and just for fun let’s say you’re a freshman. You ap-
The thought of a 9-12 “mega-school” is an exciting one
Mike Shi/BW
Senior Mary Feng participates in asian culture club, one of the many clubs that accepts freshmen but does not post signs in places where freshmen can see them.
growing, the growth will end and eventually cap off. We
Above is one possible plan for combining the schools. This plan would include a new preforming arts center and a sky walk. Other plans involve things such as larger walkways between the buildings.
editorial
What We
LoseWhen
America’s schools are falling behind, but
how is the government dealing with it?
With Extended Learning Programs few and
far between, schools seem to be more interested in graduating as many students as possible than promoting higher learning.
The editorial board votes on the opinion behind the editorial. A simple majority is needed to pass. This month’s vote was 11-1
es those students which in turn causes a dip in
Wins
less, the school would be placed on NCLB’s
them done, then the student will never learn
Everyone scores on standardized tests later on. Regardwatch list which cuts funding for the school and ultimately hurts the students.
“As a teacher, I feel that I make sure every
Blame should not be placed on the schools,
opportunity for help is there for any student to
flawed drive to stop America’s apparent edu-
it.” Nearly every teacher in the school is open
however. The problem stems from the nation’s
cational decent with the Act of Congress No Child Left Behind (NCLB).
Is it the teacher’s fault or is it the student’s
fault if a student fails a class? According to
march 2011
take,” Cline said. “The student just has to take for, and often recommends, students to come in after class-time if they need extra help.
However, there is a group who do not take ad-
ing. If a teacher has to constantly baby a student to get them to do what is expected of
work strategies. They will never learn the stratand failing or any trial-and-error learning all
other students must experience to learn. Essentially, If these students are being treated
differently than all other students, the school
This flawed law creates grade inflation,
time and effort teachers put in to helping the
combat the dip in average national test scores,
setting standards and establishing measur-
Jesse Dowell said. “I spend about one to two
able goals can improve individual outcomes in education. The Act rewards schools who meet
these standards with funding but punishes the schools who do not with reduced funding and
are placed on a “watch list.” The two major
failing students pass,” social studies teacher hours a day on these ten students out of my total 150 students.” Teachers must spend an
inordinate amount of time helping some students who simply do not deserve to pass.
This is robbing not only the students who
standards NCLB sets for a school to be profi-
are actually trying to do well of valuable one-
test goal.
robbing the failing students of their own learn-
cient are a graduation rate and a standardized
One major principle behind NCLB is the
idea that teachers do not care enough to help students who are struggling, so they need to give the teachers an incentive to “care more.”
“The law itself doesn’t motivate us teach-
ers to care more, we have always cared,” ELP teacher Sue Cline said. “It just seems that students have come into classes less prepared.”
The law creates a lose-lose scenario for
schools. Either the school holds back the students who need extra help or the school pass-
on-one attention from teachers, but it is also
The graph below shows the concentracommon GPA was 3.75. The graph on the right shows the trend that students in 2003 with higher GPA’s got the same ACT composite scores as the students in 1991 with lower GPA’s. The only explanation for the grade in-
High School Grade Distribution
creases is wide-spread grade inflation.
# of Students
800 600
schools could focus more on improving the top
3.0
The average GPA in the high school last year.
3
the students who do not turn in their homework
this Act is not promoting higher learning, it is promoting measurable learning. NCLB needs
to be either repealed or amended. Some students simply do not want to work. The government needs to accept that fact.
Average GPA for Students at Various ACT Composite Score Levels
The number of students who failed Health last semester out of 393.
3.75
students instead of devoting all of this effort to
on time or do not study for tests. Either way,
The number of years Johnston has been on the No Child Left Behind watchlist.
2
The most common GPA in the high school last year.
The number of students who dropped out in the 05-06 year.
21.0
The number of students who dropped out in the 09-10 year.
45.4
Out of all grades given last year, 45.4 percent were A’s.
5.7
Out of all grades given last year, only 5.7 percent were F’s.
400 200 0
active teaching for the bottom 5%. Maybe to
Grade Inflation tions of student GPA’s. Last year, the most
1
rest of their learning career.
NCLB supports standards-based educa-
tion reform, which is based on the belief that
Stats
is sealing their fate to need a guiding hand the
grade handouts, cupcake classes and overly-
“It’s a shame that no one sees how much
The
egies to deal with stress, to deal with trying
vantage of this opportunity.
NCLB, the fault is on the teacher.
the b&w p.8
0.00 0.50 0.75 1.00 1.25 1.50 1.75 2.00 2.25 2.50 2.75 3.00 3.25 3.50 3.75 4.00 4.25 Student GPA
review
march 2011
the b&w p.9
Long-lasting flavor put to the test words & layout Kelsey Kruse
Icebreakers Ice Cubes have a texture unlike any other gum. The thick cube
is soft and smushes in your mouth with ease. The flavor is the definition of
A lot of gum brands advertise flavor that lasts forever, but how long is forever really? The Black and White went to find out by timing how many minutes it takes before the urge to spit the gum out is way too strong and the flavor is gone.
long-lasting with the winning time of 1 hour and 18 minutes.
Trident has a plethora of options for chewing gum. Trident Vitality is Trident’s
new line of gum, and focuses on being beneficiary for the body. Trident Vitality Vigorate is a burst of citrus with strawberry and provides a healthy dose of Vitamin C. Also in the Vitality line are Rejuve and Awaken.
Piña Colada gum doesn’t sound appetizing, but surprisingly the flavor is fruity and refreshing. Orbit Mist Peppermint is juicy all the way through. Orbit White is your average gum, nothing special, but not bad either.
Best Pick
Five gum came out with a new flavor called Vortex (green apple). Usually green apple has too strong of a taste, but this green apple is done right.
Stride commercials make an obvious exaggeration about how long their flavor lasts. Compared to other gums, they do pretty well, but it’s nothing out of the ordinary.
Trident layers packs a delicious burst of fruity flavor, and lasts for nearly an hour. Layers are clearly our favorite, giving you the most bang for your buck.
Dessert itself is delicious, right? Dessert gum, not so much. Strawberry shortcake is way too much cake and not enough strawberry. Mint Chocolate Chip has an unpleasant smell but once the overwhelming sour-chocolate
taste calms down, it’s bearable. Key Lime Pie starts with a burst of lime that is alright, but once the pie taste kicks in it’s hard to keep chewing.
The gift of gift cards words Mike Shi Don’t you just love gift cards? I mean, who doesn’t love unwrapping a present and seeing a hunk of plastic? Just think of all the thought that went into
that gift card. It’s like getting cash, but instead of getting to spend it however you choose, you can only do so at a specific store! For those of us who’d rather get the cash for the gift cards we’ll never use, who want to save a little
If you have a bunch of gift cards to stores that you’ll never go to, why not
sell them? At Plastic Jungle, you can get paid by check or electronically, an amazon.com gift card. Type in the card info, it has to be worth more than $25, print off a prepaid mailing label and ship your cards. A few days later
you get paid. Cards can be bought for up to 92% of the balance. More popular stores will get you a better deal than unknown ones. But honestly,
is it worth it? Is there not one thing you can buy at the store? Plus, gift cards are gifts, it’s not like you lose anything by using it.
Provided/Kristin Donelson Provided/Tammy Robertson
Buying
Selling
bit when shopping, plasticjungle.com is the site to visit.
Planning on splurging and want to save a few bucks? Consider Plastic
Jungle, that is, if you can handle the hassle. Cards can be discounted up to 35%, but only for obscure stores. For places you’d actually want to go to, the discounts are much smaller, for example, 3% off a Target gift card. Is it worth it to save $3 off a $100 purchase? Even more frustrating is the wait. It takes about two business days to process a payment and then 5-7 days for a card to arrive. For only a few dollars more, you could’ve already bought what you wanted and have enjoyed it for a week.
school board
the b&w p.10&11 march 2011
School Board Changes Policies
How the board works: Board Votes to Change Calendar Year
Growth Spurs “Mega-School” Discussion
Staff, Students and Parents
Give an idea to
As the growth of class sizes increase, so does the
On Feb. 28, the school board voted to change
start and end dates for the 2011-2012 school year.
need for more space. Currently there are proposals
summer break May 18 the following year. Finals
which would serve as a 9-12 high school. Another
Class will begin on Aug. 15, and be released for
to combine the high school and the middle school,
will be held after winter break, and seniors will most
option is building an entirely new high school.
Administration
Idea is then discussed with who suggested it. If it has merit, it goes on to a policy committee.
A board of about 20 members researched the
likely have AP tests after graduation.
Before the board voted, Five parents and one stu-
possibilities. Questions were brought up, and ideas
changing the start date. No one community member
that the most feasible idea would be to renovate
dent took the opportunity to speak on behalf of not
were proposed. The committee voted and found
spoke in favor of this change. Junior Kaitlyn Aldrich
and combine the high school and middle school.
vote down the start date of Aug. 15. “I think a major-
2015/2016, however the planning must begin soon
Policy committee
These are specified groups of board members who work in conjunction with the administration, then introduce the idea as a recommendation to the school board.
As of now, we have enough space until
expressed her belief that the school board should
in order for the district to be adequately prepared.
ity of the board members went into the meeting with
The estimated cost of the “mega-school” is $47
their mind already made up,” Aldrich said.
Board member Jackie Heiser asked her fellow
million. This would also cover the construction of a
considering how to vote. However, board member
$44 million from the state-wide one cent sales tax.
already given the opportunity to express its views
lion that would have to be voted on. If passed, the
board members to listen to their constituents when
new middle school. The district would receive up to
Mike Farrell, suggested that the community was
The district is also eligible for an additional $55 mil-
through a survey that was offered online regard-
end result would be increased taxes.
School Board
A vote is taken at the meeting following the discussion. These meetings are open to the public (unless they involve purchase of land or expulsion). A simple majority of 4 votes wins, and the idea becomes a policy.
ing the calendar change. The results of the survey
were 462 in favor of beginning school on Aug. 15,
181 in favor of starting Aug. 18, and 382 in favor of starting Aug. 22. The policy passed, Heiser being
the only one against the change, and some community members booed.
The board members, as well as Clay Guthmiller,
said the reason for the change is to increase stuKofi Manteaw/The Dragon
1 2
Race to the Top GrantFederal funding was available to states that met certain educational benchmarks, but would have required federal education mandates. People for Animal WelfareA club whose goal is to promote ethical treatment of animals.
3
Series 500 Policy ChangeBoard voted on removing language that helped protect students from self-censorship.
4
Changing High School Science ClassesThe board voted on eliminating blocked science classes for the 2011-12 school year.
<<
Senior Rachael Meyer pets a calf at the Iowa State Fair last summer. The fair will begin on Aug. 11 and end on the 25. School has always started without conflicting with the fair. This year, however, class begins Aug. 15. Zach Winjum/BW
Jill Morrill, Jackie Heiser, and Julie Walter
academically and with activities,” Guthmiller said.
Race to the Top Grant PAW Club Series 500 Policy Change Changing High School Science Classes
An agenda is posted prior to each meeting, in which a parent or student can sign up for a four minute slot to be able to speak about any issue, directly to the board.
Jordin Robinson/The Dragon
the greater purpose to provide students success
e e e e vot vot vot vot
School Board Voting Records
School Board President Tracey Orman speaks during a board meeting which took place on Feb. 28.
dent achievement. “The calendar was adopted for
*Meeting Agendas
Tracey Orman President
Julie Walter Vice President
Marci Cordaro Board Member
John Dutcher Board Member
Mike Farrell Board Member
Jackie Heiser Board Member
Jill Morrill Board Member
yes/no
yes/no
yes/no
yes/no
yes/no
yes/no
yes/no
Abstained
Yes
Yes
No
Yes
No
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
No
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
No
Yes
Yes
Yes
No
Yes
Abstained
Yes Compiled by Zach Winjum and Kelly McGowan
the b&w p.12
march 2011
entertainment
Derby Boys
words & layout Ian Dunshee Unless you happen to be the few and the proud
of the social outcast elite, chances are you’ve come across the latest issue of “Juice.” It will fill you in on
the original women’s Roller Derby in Iowa, how the game works, and the latest on what’s next for the
derby girls of Des Moines. But what could the professionals possibly have missed? Not much other than the blatant gender bias in the sport. Think
Roller Derby wouldn’t give off the same vibe if
the girls in fishnets were replaced by sweaty guys? Think again.
Des Moines’ men’s roller derby was
conceived as many great things and people are; by accident. “I have a bunch of friends that I play dodge ball with here at the rink every week,” Dante Muse, one of the
founding members said. His team, Your Mom, practices at Skate North, which
Muse also owns. “The Des Moines Derby
Dames
practice here (Skate North) and so we heard from them
from the stereotypes,” player Jason McDaniel said. He
so we researched and started it up,” he said.
time comes around. A women’s derby coach for four
ple as finding a group of guys that can skate around
the derby world, from foul play to fights breaking out
and at women’s tournaments that guys were playing,
is also known as “Sea Horses Forever” when game
Of course, starting a roller derby team isn’t as sim-
years in Missouri, McDaniel knows the ins and outs of
a rink. “Every team starting out has their problems,”
on the rink.
“There is always something you must overcome to be
knuckles and tattoos. Everyone had names like
want to know how the others skate so I can know what
these days, everyone is just trying to have fun with it.
to have as much fun on with the Roller Derby team
one is very happy with the new direction of the sport.”
task when playing on a team consisting of your closest
have to know someone to get involved with the top
Knowing they are new to the sport, Your Mom com-
roots sport, and anyone can be a part of it. The people
to some may seem like a silly sport very seriously. “We
hour of fame once a month and they let it all go. They
it’s a serious sport,” Muse said. This attitude is not
and then they go back to their job at the steel mill.”
emerging trend along with the rising popularity of the
changing all the time just because of the wide vari-
Sporting players with names such as “Sugarboots”
througout the country,” McDaniel says. “We are doing
teams throughout the nation to pioneer a new way of
be there to watch the transformation and the growth
James Olson, known as “Lilypad” in the rink said.
“In the beginning, it was leaning toward brass
better. For us, that’s getting to act as more of a team. I
‘Crusher’ and ‘Destroyer’,” explains McDaniel. “But
to do to be better when skating with them. We want
That’s why we chose frou-frou names instead. Every-
as we do with dodge-ball.” This may not be a difficult
“It isn’t like basketball or football where you really
friends.
players,” McDaniel said. “It’s a non-commercial, grass-
pensates by holding regular practice and taking what
that do it do it because they love it. They have their
have funny names, we have a funny team name, but
get all their anger and emotion out and just let it fly,
isolated to Iowa Roller Derby either, but is rather an
“The sport is constantly evolving every day. Its
sport both in the state and throughout the country.
ety of skill and knowledge of all the different players
and “Mr. Bubbles”, Your Mom is just one of the many
something that has yet to be fully defined and you can
living the derby life. “Derby is trying to get away
as a sport evolves knowing you are a part of it.”
How You Can Get Involved For further information on the offical rules and regulations of Roller Derby visit: www.wftda.com For information on one of Des Moines’ three roller derby teams, including try-out and practice information, visit: www.dmderbydames.com - Des Moines Derby Dames www.midiowarollers.com - Mid Iowa Rollers www.yourmommensderby.com - Your Mom
health
the b&w p.13
march 2011
Cold lunch
Sick of having the same hot lunch options every week? Try bringing a cold lunch to change things up a bit. Here are some tasty and quick options to pack up for lunch. words & layout Taylor Mithelman
BLT wrap:
Wraps
Spread mayonnaise and salsa down the
center of a tortilla. Sprinkle with garlic powder, salt and pep-
per. Layer with bacon strips, lettuce, tomato and avocado;
Why cold lunch?
roll up tightly.
Chicken Bacon Ranch:
Take shredded chicken,
bacon, ranch and lettuce and place on a tortilla. Add extra
junior Emma Henry
“I’ve always brought it so it’s just turned into a habit.
vegetables of your choice.
BBQ Roast Beef:
I never even think about getting lunch at school. Plus
cold lunch is healthier and it’s a good option for me
Fill a tortilla with roast beef, pro-
volone cheese and coleslaw. Top with barbecue sauce and
since I’m a vegetarian.”
wrap it up for a filling main dish.
Change it Up: The grocery store has many varieties
senior Melinda Busch
“The lunch mob is crazy, and who wants to get caught
of wraps. Find a new flavor such as sun-dried tomato to
up in that? Plus, I only like pasta day so I would rather
change up your lunch.
bring my sack lunch the rest of the week.”
junior Kristen Gifford
“I like cold lunch because you can decide what you
Sandwiches
want and how much you want to eat everyday.”
Turkey and Hummus:
junior Richard Schraeger
“I bring it so it cuts down on costs of everyday lunch.
For those that take their
lunch regularly and are sick of turkey sandwiches, this is a
It costs my parents a lot less money for me to bring,
nice variation. Just spread your favorite hummus on pita
rather than buying it at school.”
bread and add turkey and vegetables of your choice. Hummus can be purchased at the grocery store and can also be made at home.
Chicken Salad Sandwich: For those who prefer
If you want even more options, you can always look into buying a thermos to bring soups and hot items in. If a microwave is available, heat up leftover pasta or soup.
to pack their lunch ahead of time this is an easy option
because chicken salad can be made a couple days ahead
of time. Start by mixing canned chicken, mayonnaise and
ranch powder. Add tomatoes or grapes for more flavor. Eat as a sandwich or with crackers
Salad
Pasta Salad:
Change it Up: Sick of the same sandwiches? Try adding a new topping or a different bread like pita pockets.
This is an easy option that allows you
to change your lunch depending on what you put in it. Mix together penne pasta, broccoli, carrots, cauliflower, ranch dressing and Italian dressing. Add vegetables such as red peppers for more flavor.
Simple sides
Fruit Salad: Cut up grapes, apples, pineapple and ba-
Fruit:
add yogurt to the mix.
to mention fresh and sweet tasting
mesan cheese and Ceasar dressing.
tables such as carrots, broccoli, celery and peppers. These
which keeps you full longer. Keep fully cooked chicken in
flavor.
Peanut butter is a good alternative for those who do not eat
cake or a small candy bar for something quick and sweet!
nanas. Exchange one fruit for another of your favorites or
Caesar Salad: Mix romaine, chicken, croutons, ParStay Full:
Cut up an apple and soak in pineapple juice the
night before. This will keep the pieces from browning, not
Veggies: Cut up ahead of time a variety of fresh vege-
Adding meat to your meal adds protein
are easy to grab in the morning. A dip adds some new
the refrigerator which allows for easy prep in the morning.
Dessert: Don’t forget to throw in some cookies, a cup-
meat. Eat with apples or on a classic PB&J sandwich.
Leftovers are always an easy option for lunch. Find a way to package up last night’s dinner or turn it into something new. Have leftover chicken? Make a chef salad with chicken on top. Make pasta salad out of extra noodles, fresh vegetables and Italian dressing.
the b&w p.14
fashion
march 2011
Sharp dressed men Three male students share what individual style means to them
words & layout Spencer Vasey As senior Mitch Campbell walked the streets of
France last summer, he felt right at home among
the trendy styles of the French men. Before departing for his trip, he had purchased a new wardrobe and reinvented his individual style. “I wanted to look good in France,” Campbell said. “I was awed by the French style.”
Campbell has continued to create and individu-
alize his style in the past year. He describes his
style as a culmination of formal, casual, baggy and loose fitting clothes and he shops at stores
such as Mr. B’s and Heritage. “I dress how I feel
people should dress,” he said. “There’s something to be said about first impressions.”
Campbell likes to be creative with what he
wears. He observes what looks good on others and tries to put his own spin on it. A flannel shirt
junkie, Campbell owns over 50 button-up flannel shirts. He tries to dress up everyday, and never
wears sweats to school. “I wore sweats to school
once this year,” Campbell said. “I ended up using my lunch break to go home and change.”
Mitch Campbell Andy Jensen
Casey Halder Sophomore Casey Halder’s style can
be summed up in four words: “Flannels, hats, Adidas, unique.”
“That’s how people know me,” he
When most people look at senior Andy Jensen, they assume he has
always been the put-together, well-dressed person he is today, but noth-
ing could be farther from the truth. “I used to wear swimming T-shirts everyday,” Jensen said. “I didn’t really start caring about the way I looked until the beginning of my junior year.”
Jensen has now developed a style all his own. Most days, he can be
seen in dark-wash jeans, a solid-colored shirt and several layers of hoodies and jackets. “I just like simple things,” he said.
He has made a point of refraining from wearing sweatpants to school.
“I just realized that dressing well isn’t hard,” Jensen said. “I kind of started to get embarrassed when I didn’t like what I was wearing.”
Jensen orders most of his clothes online from stores such as Urban
Outfitters and H&M, but also shops at local stores including GAP. “Clothes are a good way to reflect your individual style,” he said.
said. “Everybody knows me because of the hats, nobody else does it.”
Halder plans his outfits around his
shoes. He selects a pair to wear in the
morning and works his way up, next selecting his jeans, then his shirt, and finally his hat. “I wear a hat everyday,” he said. “I feel naked without my hat.”
He can rarely be seen in an outfit that
does not completely match. “I feel weird
(when I don’t match),” Halder said. “It’s out of my comfort zone.”
feature
Get Yengry words & layout Chris Coble When students come to the door of Jeremy Yenger’s
government class they are greeted by a duck and an angry face staring back at them. Below the duck are the words
“This duck just completed Yenger Management” and to the left of the face reads “You won’t like me when I’m Yengry.”
Inside that very room among all the pictures of past
presidents and political maps hangs a sign that goes unnoticed. “Quae Nocent Docent” reads the sign, Latin for “What hurts, teaches.”
Yenger, affectionately called “Yengry” by his many stu-
dents, uses anger for a unique purpose. He knows his
students probably are not overly excited, if at all, about government class, so to “get the fires lit,” Yenger engages students by kicking over desks and throwing things around his room.
“There is no enjoyment in this class,” Yenger said in a
fake southern accent, “That just ain’t the kind of dog and pony show I run around here.”
Yenger gets excited by government, so much so that
voices get raised and tempers fly. This attitude is what he Chris Coble/BW
Jeremy Yenger lectures about the powers given to the president. Yenger believes this to be his favorite topic to teach in class.
the b&w p.15
march 2011
thinks gets students involved with the curriculum.
“Kicking over desks gets people’s attention,” Yenger
said. “You call it anger, I call it excitement.” By doing this he
tries to get students into government class. “You’re cynical and jaded,” he said, “and that’s why I like teaching you.”
Yenger believes that if he doesn’t get into government
then students won’t either. “I love the material,” he said, “but the students don’t.”
He likes to think that kids love his sarcasm because it
helps keep things interesting. But Yenger believes that in order to get a student to learn, some effort has to be put
forth. There has to be pain on both the side of the student as well as the side of the teacher.
Yenger’s favorite quote sums up his beliefs quite well. It
comes from the book The Dumbest Generation written by
Mark Bauerlein. The quote reads, “In other words, enjoyment and achievement have no necessary relation…American Infatuation with the happiness factor in education may
be displaced. Confidence and enjoyment don’t guarantee better students.” This, Yenger believes, is his motivation for teaching the way he does.
So the last time you walk out that door after passing
Yenger’s government class, turn to that duck and put a
smile on your face because you just completed Yenger Management.
Most quotes from Jeremy Yenger were too graphic in
nature to be put into this article. For more great quotes check out the “Yengerisms” page on Facebook.
One million views and counting words & layout Ashley Enger Mike & Josh Shorts, otherwise known as the SaintJimmey channel on YouTube, goes viral.
script, they act out all original ideas.
“Whenever we make a video we always
do it on the spot,” Metzler said. “Like it will be randomly ‘Hey I feel like making a video now, do you?’”
De Lanoit creates the concepts for these
iting zone’ where I lose track of time. Before I know it, a few hours have gone by.”
The main goal is to get feedback on
their creations while keeping viewers enter-
tained. The only limitations with posting the videos on Facebook is that they are only
With 35 videos and over 1 million views,
videos, and Metzler is in charge of editing
bigger. Camera buff seniors Mike Metzler
By creating an actual story line, this
makers is their first video titled Stakeout
random videos sometimes seen on the site.
a few years ago, it is shot in the point of
these amateurs are forming into something
and Josh De Lanoit film seniors Matt Probst,
Ed Hepplewhite and Collin Ward, producing Youtube-worthy videos. Using Metzler’s camera, an HDR-CX110, they whimsically
brainstorm ideas to create under five minutes of pure entertainment for viewers.
These guys have been making videos
together for roughly five years. Their prime
movie making time is on Friday nights and Saturdays, often spending more than two
hours shooting. Along with their impromptu
the video after it has been filmed.
group sets themselves apart from other By doing so they enhance the quality of the
videos because of the developed ideas. Even after filming, more work is put into the
video. Before the videos are shown, they go through an editing stage done by Metzler.
“I’m never sure of the exact amount of
time it takes me to edit,” Metzler said, “because once I begin editing, I go into this ‘ed-
viewable by ‘friends.’
One memorable video to these movie
Man, which still remains on Youtube. Made
Provided/Mike Metzler
better since then, “every movie we make,
Seniors Matt Probst and Josh De Lanoit set up for their scene to make a video.
Some changes to improve the quality
have had are emotionally rewarding. “It’s a
view of a gun. Their movies have gotten we get better at it,” De Lanoit said.
of videos are being made like the scripting
and the planning of the direction of each movie. This will also save time while shooting and editing, enabling the group to en-
hance productivity. The experiences they
calling and a passion.” De Lanoit said.
Want to watch the videos sometime?
Viewers can find all posted videos on their
Youtube channel, SaintJimmey. New videos are made posted monthly.
the b&w p.16
march 2011
Victory
feature Andrew Tubbs makes a comeback after surgery
words Taylor Mithelman layout Paige Cramer Junior Andrew Tubbs is planning on making a neck-
choir, jazz band and mock trial. While in the hospital Tubbs
that turned his bones. On this necklace will be one word,
“I really wanted to get out of that hospital. I knew that I
lace. A necklace made out of the melted metal of a fixator sieg, the German word for victory.
Tubbs has Thrombocytopenia with Absent Radius
(T.A.R. Syndrome.) This causes the absence of the radius
was already thinking about getting back into his activities.
needed to get into rehab as soon as possible if there was any chance of being able to participate (in the activities).”
Tubbs found alternative ways to keep his spirits up
bone and usually some deformities in the legs. This past
through rehab. “The music definitely helps me cope,”
formation, hopefully leaving him more mobile than before.
the type of person that gets lost in the music so when I’m
summer Tubbs had surgery on his leg and foot to fix the de“I basically had a week of summer,” Tubbs said. He
spent 36 days in the hospital and a month and a half at Child Serve. While in the hospital he had a total of three surgeries. The surgery consisted of breaking seven bones in his leg and foot and inserting pins into the holes. The
pins were attached to the fixator device and each day they turned the pins in order to straighten out his leg and foot.
“It was a roller coaster, there were times when I was
Tubbs said. “Music has definitely relieved a lot of stress. I’m listening or singing, everything else goes away.” Friends along the way helped inspire and encourage Tubbs. “I met the most amazing person I know in the hospital bed next to me. His name is Michael Dosdel, he is 16 and has had 40 surgeries. He taught me that no matter how hard your life
is there is always someone that has a tougher one and I’m very grateful I have a relatively easy life.”
Tubbs was able to participate in Mock Trial from De-
hopeful and very optimistic and other times when I would
cember to February, as well as a member of the Synergy
said. “Whenever someone talks about the surgery or I’m
song, “The Distance You Have Come,” as well as sing a
have rather cut off my leg than go through that pain,” Tubbs
asked about it I always have to use comedy to kinda laugh
it off otherwise I become pretty depressed. That’s why
show choir to some extent. He was able to be part of one solo at the S.E. Polk competition.
Tubbs is still working towards complete recovery. “I have
whenever someone comments on how much that would
to be close to 100 percent for senior year. There is no way
were a lot of drugs.”
do love Shepard (Synergy’s director),” Tubbs said. “When I
have hurt or something to that extent I always answer there When school started back up again Tubbs was able to
go for partial days. “I was just insanely tired,” Tubbs said.
His heel was not completely healed correctly after the sur-
I can handle being in Synergy another year, even though I
saw my first Innovation performance eight years ago I was in love with show choir and I wanted to be in that choir.”
“The necklace will have a three-thorn looking pattern.
gery so the doctors have been slowly working it into place
The three represents the trinity. During the surgery I always
St. Paul, MN taking even more time away from school.
a plan and I must follow,” Tubbs said. “The thorns just re-
through serial casts. To get each cast Tubbs has to go up to Beyond the academics though, Tubbs is still highly in-
volved in school. He participates in marching band, show
had faith. I knew that there was a reason for this. God has
mind me of how everyone wears a crown of thorns and the surgery and syndrome are mine.”.
Right, Tubbs introduces himself at the Variety Show, a children’s charity that raises money for different children organizations, on March 6. He sang the song, “The Impossible Dream,” from Man of Lamancha. Tubbs was accompanied by Tony Hatch, the composer of the famous rollerskating song, “Downtown. “Hatch came all the way from Spain to help support Variety. “He’s kind of taken Andrew under his wing,” Tubb’s mom Beth Tubbs said. Tubbs first began singing for the Variety show 3 years ago and has done it ever since because he loves the experience of it.
Ashley Shay/BW
feature
In front of the camera Three students explore the world of modeling to discover new and unusual experiences
Senior Kennady Loffredo’s modeling ca-
reer began when she was young. “My mom
is the one who started me in modeling, she just entered me in a pageant when I was
Morgan Coffey
words Isabella Engblom layout Kelsey Kruse
the b&w p.17
march 2010
a baby and ever since I have been interested,” Loffredo said.
Getting paid well is Loffredo’s favorite
part about modeling. She said it isn’t too
serious in high school but with anything, it can lead to something bigger.
So far, Loffredo has done an ad for Iowa
State University which was displayed in Jordan Creek mall. “I have also been in two Mediacom commercials,” Loffredo said.
It started as a runway show in Merle Hay mall
as a fifth grader, and little did she know it would
turn out to be such a big part of her life. Freshman Morgan Coffey has taken up modeling as a serious hobby and enjoys meeting all sorts of new and interesting people.
Along with modeling comes unusual and
unique experiences. “I did a photo shoot in a warehouse once, it was a round robin kind of
thing with about ten other girls, and we just modeled a bunch of different dresses,” Coffey said.
Models need to be versatile and able to wear
whatever is needed to get the job done. “I have
modeled things from swim suits to parkas,” Cof-
Kennady Loffredo
Provided/Morgan Coffey
fey said. “I have also done a photo shoot downtown when I was doing my composition card with
Peak Agency and he had me walking down the street barefoot.”
Victoria Horstman
Provided/Kennady Loffredo
Foreign body movements and uncomfortable stretches to form the perfect
pose all for a picture; is it really worth it? “After one of my (photo) shoots I
was sore and couldn’t figure out why. I finally realized that I was sore from
modeling,” senior Victoria Horstman said. “I had used and stretched muscles I never normally use, but I had a great time, so it was worth it.”
When modeling, comfort zones can be breached because of different
styles of clothing and movements. Horstman said it’s even more uncomfortable with others watching. “One time I was in a shoot and there were tons
of parents and friends of the other girls all in the room watching every move I made as I was getting my pictures taken,” Horstman said. “It didn’t help that I was wearing high heels and standing on a furry rug. I kept loosing my
balance and was about to fall. I probably looked like I was 12 and had never worn high heels before.”
Horstman’s favorite part of modeling is being able to show her creative
side and serious side that most people never get to see. “When you are modeling you are on cloud ten and nothing else in the world matters,” Horstman
said. “All your energy is focused on getting that perfect shot and using your Provided/Victoria Horstman
body and face to convey a message.”
the b&w p.18
march 2011
Family Affair JOE
On wrestling 215 instead of heavyweight like last year: “It was fun being at my own weight this year and making weight. It was fun not being the smallest guy in the weight class.”
dungeon Inside Johnston’s premier wrestling family, the Scanlans words & layout Ryan Smaha
JAKE
On wrestling heavyweight:
“I love it. I have been wrestling a lot longer than most of the guys and I’m faster. It’s not too much different than wrestling another class.”
On making state as a freshman: On being the smallest heavyweight to place last year: “It was funny to look at the podium picture and stuff. I was a lot smaller than the rest of the guys. I almost got pushed off the podium.”
Favorite style: “Freestyle, because the pace of the match is faster. The scoring system is a lot different so you have more opportunities to score a lot of points. Plus it is a more aggressive style.”
On working out with Montell Marion (national finalist for Iowa wrestling team): “It was one of those experiences where you are thinking ‘wow he is a national finalist.’ It was pretty cool.”
On making state, twice: “It’s a great experience. There is a lot of pressure to place higher than the year before and hopefully win it.”
“It felt good because a lot of my friends from a lot of the state made it too. I was one of the only freshman in the tournament so that was really cool.”
Funniest moment this year: “Joe and I got in a fight in practice this year because he was working on my arm too hard and it started to get to me, so I started swinging at him. Coach Tecklenburg picked me up and carried me to the other part of the room.”
On wrestling Joe: “We wrestle each other all through the offseason, so we know each other’s styles really well. It gets old because we know each other’s strengths and weaknesses completely.”
On wrestling all year long: “I like it because you never get out of it and are always in a wrestling mode. You always have a practice to go to so you always have something to do.”
sports
march 2011
the b&w p.19
Inside the Interlude words & layout Ethan Meng The buzzer rings. It’s half-time and the
student section looks to senior Matt DeFrancisco as the music starts. Everyone
so I made a Facebook page and posted the video telling people to watch it.”
The group grew on Facebook until more
has been anxiously waiting for the last two
than 200 students were signed up to partic-
cisco jumps onto the court to lead the stu-
team’s Senior Night.
quarters; the crowd goes crazy as DeFrandent section in the ‘Interlude Dance.’
ipate in the dance for the boys’ basketball Before being able to dance at the game
The Interlude Dance was origionally cre-
however, DeFrancisco needed to go to Ac-
the University of Northern Iowa: junior Ian
“It was really a positive thing,” Ross said. “It
ated last summer by three students from Goldsmith, junior Tyler Wright and senior Scott Connerley.
Originally called the ‘Gruff Dance,’ the
Interlude made its first appearance at a women’s basketball game at UNI. The
tivities Director Gary Ross for permission.
really showed a great deal of school spirit, which excites me and I think it excites the
community to see students having a fun time and being very school-minded.”
Because of the large interest in the In-
three boys were challenged by UNI’s Ath-
terlude, many students have attempted to
many students to the women’s game as
the show choir competition at S.E. Polk
letic Marketing Department to bring as
possible. If they got enough students to
come, they would be allowed to perform
bring the dance to other events, such as High School on Feb. 26.
Students played the song through S.E.
the ‘Interlude.’
Polk’s intercom system. Those from John-
its way to Johnston’s own “Superfan” sec-
eryone else watched in amazement. “It was
It wasn’t long before the dance made
tion. “A friend who graduated last year sent
me a link on Youtube and I thought that it
wasn’t something that we could do,” DeFrancisco said. “[But then] I showed it to a couple of friends and they thought we could
ston who knew how began to dance as evreally funny because all of the old people
looked at us like we were crazy and it was
fun because a lot of people came up to us and said that they wish they did stuff like that,” junior Morgan Riessen said.
Kara Ganzer/The Dragon
Full-court Press x
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By: Ryan SMAHA
Top sleepers and potential busts for March Madness As we approach spring break, the sports
world anxiously awaits the culmination of college basketball, March Madness. As you are filling out your brackets for your fam-
ily pool, ESPN, etc, here are my picks for some potential bracket busters and busts. Bracket Busters
Michigan - Am I talking about the same
team that needed overtime to beat Iowa in only two weeks ago? Absolutely. The Wol-
verines are 8-4 in their last 12 games after starting 1-5 in Big Ten play. Get used to this team challenging for Big Ten titles for the
next two or three years as well. There is not a single senior on the squad. Led by their
The Bears have a record of 30-4, and put
classic trap of becoming a jump-shooting
championship game last Sunday. This is a
Illinois-Chicago at the United Center (where
up a 41-point victory in the conference
team that drove Tennessee to the brink before losing in Knoxville by one. A team that can not only shoot outside, but also inside.
The Bears are 12th in the country in scoring
at 80.4 ppg, and will be a tough first round matchup for anyone. Bracket Busts
Illinois - The Fighting Illini came into the
sophomore guard Darius Morris, the youth
season with high expectations, returning all
possibly as far as the Sweet Sixteen.
ing class coming into Champaign. Unfortu-
of this team can lead them deep into March, Belmont - Who has ever heard of Bel-
mont? Well you will come tourney-time.
five starters and a highly regarded recruitnately, for the Illini, the seniors have made freshman mistakes, and have fallen into the
team in the Big Ten. With bad losses against
the Illini usually dominate) and Indiana, the Illini have a good enough resume to make the dance, but won’t make it out of the second round unless a big change occurs.
Kentucky - The Wildcats, a year removed
from an elite eight birth at the hands of super-freshman John Wall, have struggled
away from Rupp Arena this season. This could translate badly for the team, since
they will not be able to ride the wave of the
crowd. A very formidable 12 or 13 seed op-
ponent first round could be the team to take down the Wildcats.
the b&w p.20
backpage
march 2011
Photo Art ll
words Mallorie Goodale & Hannah Soyer layout Ethan Meng There are six students who are currently in Photo Art ll. The class
This photo is of logs used
is instructed by teacher Daniel Weiss. Students work towards creat-
as steps in Jester Park. “I
ing unique and insightful photos that are seen on this page.
took this photo to capture something unusual that you might not recognize out of context. It reminded me of a
Most
sort of balance between the
people,
when
seeing an egg outside,
natural and the man-made,”
would pass it by without
Grapp said.
a second thought. But for
Elli Grapp ‘12
photographer Haley Thiel,
this was just another opportunity to express her creativity.
Haley Thiel ‘12
A unique angle
and contrasting colors are what make
this photo of splattered paint so cap-
This photo was created for a surrealism project. Hid inspira-
tivating. “The thing I
tion was when he caught himself wondering what it would be
art is that it is one of
completed this project by switching the mouth and the eyes. “I
like most about photo
like if people could talk out of two mouths at the same time. He
the few classes I ac-
like it because it looks freaky,” Johnson said.
tually enjoy,” DeBolt said.
Kenzie DeBolt ‘13 While at first glance this may seem like an image
from a twisted version of Nightmare on Elm Street, at
a closer look you can see that this is merely a combination of the photographer and something he loves: woodworking. This photo was taken and developed for a surrealist project.
Jacob Henderson ‘12
A fork and a toothbrush:
two things that enter your
mouth on a regular ba-
sis. As for what they are sticking out of, Giudicessi
said, “It’s of water droplets
flipped upside down on cellophane.”
Cole Giudicessi ‘12
Bryan Johnson ‘12