May 2010

Black&White The farmer’s market

the black and white. may 2010. volume 19 issue 9. 5152780449. 6501 NW 62nd ave. johnston. iowa one copy free

ON THE COVER designed by kallen kramer check us out online

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www.theblackandwhiteonline.com

NEWS 3

Hukee pulls a Farve

4

news briefs Wessling wins

Principal decides to stay another year

English teacher honored with national award

stuco updates

EDITORIAL 5

Lucky to be at jhs

We have many resources other school are without

OPINION

In need of a sports complex

Community lacks necessary equipment

Hu cares

7 8

Senior two cents

staff’s personal opinions on random topics

Policy change debate New grading system; good or bad?

REVIEW 9

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.

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A look at local breakfast restaurants

ENTERTAINMENT

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Hit these up this summer!

Best of Saylorville

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DOUBLE TRUCK

21

FEATURE

Girls tennis team

Growing up with golf

Seniors excel due to years of experience

CHOKE!

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Pregame rituals

23

Breaking records

Sophomore Brandon Korkow

Getting caught

Exploring the consequences of using illegal substances

Massage = <3

Senior Matt Mahanna finds a hobby in massage

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Get the truth about ways to get your vitamins

Loosing at the ending moments of a competition

Random spotlight

15

Vitamin myths

SPORTS

Farmers market

14

Unique places to cyber-shop

DUNGEON

Get your nature on

12/13

Shopping on the Web

HEALTH

Music fesitvals

DADS!

A look at how different athletes get pumped Boys shuttle hurdle relay is on fire

BACKPAGE 24

A look at teachers and their children

Grill it out!

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FASHION

Early morning eats

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i

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index

6

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Adios

Seniors share advice

Tips to help you master your BBQ skills

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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

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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

May 10

p3

Hukee staying one more year words & layout Kyle Soyer After acting as Principal since 1998,

Bruce Hukee will retire after next year.

Hukee had originally planned to retire af-

ter this year because he felt the timing was perfect. Also, the school board had voted to

eliminate the district’s retirement package starting next year. The package includes a stipend for individuals at least 55 years old

and who have worked for the district for 10 years. “They offered me a chance to come back and still get the retirement package next year,” Hukee said.

The school board asked Hukee to return

because they wanted to delay the process

of finding a successor. “It was a somewhat

late start to our process of hiring folks,” Assistant Principal Jerry Stratton said.

The district received 33 applications, all

from outside the district. These were reviewed by the Associate Superintendent for

Human Services Dr. Jim Casey, Associate

Principal Randy Klein, and Stratton. Nine of the applicants were chosen for pre screening interviews by the same panel that re-

viewed their applications. Casey said that three or four of the interviewees were identified as possibilities. However, the interview

panel decided to ask the board to delay the

process. “We weren’t dissatisfied with the

candidates,” Casey said. “We felt our best

NB

option was to see if Mr. Hukee would come back for a year.”

“The questions for the screening com-

mittee came from our staff,” Klein said. The staff rated the 21 leadership responsibilities

identified by Mid-continent Research for Education and Learning (McREL) in School Leadership on order of importance. The in-

terviewees were then asked about the top four. Number one was communication.

“That was overwhelmingly the top thing

they wanted to see in a principal candidate,” Hukee said. The other three leadership responsibilities were discipline, input and culture.

Stratton said that an ideal candidate

would be a visionary leader who continually pushes for improvement. He feels Hukee

has always done this. “His shoes will not be easy to fill,” Stratton said.

The hiring process will begin again in

January or February of next year. “There were individuals that we really hope apply

again next year,” Casey said. He also hopes that there will be some new individuals.

Hukee has enjoyed the opportunity to

associate himself with a variety of different people. “I think the staff, the community and the students are terrific to work with,” he said.

eBoard

Provided/Yiming Qin

Principal Bruce Hukee was quoted by the Des Moines Register as saying he knows what Brett Favre feels like.

Healthy Kids Act Contract Consequences

In an effort to go paperless, the school board will now

be using eBoard, giving the public access to much more information than before.

For those who did not turn in their Healthy Kids Act (HKA) contracts,

there will be “technically no consequences,” Bruce Amendt, executive director of academic services, said.

eBoard is an Internet-based program

Contracts were handed out during homeroom. Of around

that allows the board members to ac-

1,200 students, only 370-380 returned their contracts.

school board members can see all the

Amendt said.

cess the agenda online. With eBoard,

news briefs

words & layout Mike Shi

“Part of me is not surprised [the return rate] is that low,”

documents that go with the agenda.

Buryanek

Efficiency and environmental friend-

liness were the main reasons behind

This year, the contracts were given out to see the return

Amendt

rate, not to monitor physical activity. The district did not

want to use staff to track down those who did not turn it in.

eBoard. “It takes a lot of time to make copies,” Nancy

This would not be plausible with the current staffing levels.

das are around 50 pages, with 35 per meeting.

count for physical activity. If the district were to use the passing period, no

Buryanek, director of community education said. AgenAnother benefit is eBoard’s accessibility. “It’ll make the

district more transparent,” Buryanek said. Community

members may go onto eBoard and view the agenda. At meetings, eBoard will be projected onto screens so that community members may follow along.

The first meeting to use eBoard was held May 10.

Provided/Buryanek

The way the legislation is written, the district could use passing period to

contracts would have to be given out or signed next year.

There are problems with using the passing period. “It would be hard to ar-

gue passing period is rigorous physical activity,” Amendt said. In addition, the Department of Education strongly discourages schools from this.

“Whether or not we will have to require [contracts] next year, that decision

has yet to be made,” Amendt said.

Provided/Amendt

news

May 10

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Wessling honored in D.C. tie dinner, at which Wessling was seated next to Secretary

English teacher named National Teacher of the Year by President Obama

of Education Arnie Duncan.

Wessling said that the most difficult part of the opportu-

nity has been being away from her family. “I get to travel

and meet all these people, but I have to leave my family behind for a while,” she said.

words & layout Catherine Caracci

However, Wessling’s family has been “incredibly sup-

English teacher Sarah Brown Wessling was honored

at a White House ceremony and was presented with the National Teacher of the Year award by President Barack

Although for some of her speaking engagements,

Wessling must travel alone, she is able to bring her fam-

nalists each had a three-day interview with a 15-member

time and long weekends, but other times, I just need to go

ily along often. “Some locations are appropriate for family

selection committee, including the president of the national Parent-Teacher Organization (PTA).

on my own,” she said.

As part of the award, Wessling will have the opportu-

After winning the award, Wessling traveled to Washing-

nity to travel and speak around the United States, including

Oval Office, and all of a sudden, the door opened, and he

also have the opportunity to travel internationally, although

ton, D.C. to meet the President. “I was standing outside the

locations in Iowa, Dallas and Washington, D.C. She will

was there,” Wessling said. “He was genuine and wonder-

“international travel is not as extensive,” she said. She will

ful, and he took time with each of my children.”

get to spend two weeks in Japan in November.

Wessling also got to have a private conversation with

Wessling has received recognition from the national me-

the President. “He asked me why I became a teacher, what

dia and did an interview on CNN. “I didn’t find out I was go-

tude about the profession,” she said.

she said. “I had to be ready by 5:45 the next morning.”

I loved about teaching, and he had words of sincere gratiWessling later received her award in a ceremony honor-

ing to be on CNN until late the night before, around 8 p.m.,” For the interview and subsequent events in Washing-

ing the state teachers of the year in the White House Rose

ton, D.C., Wessling received no guidance on how to dress.

surreal,” she said. “I knew I had to make a public state-

school, would be appropriate for national TV,” she said. To

Garden. “It was a really special place to be; it was pretty

English teacher Sarah Brown Wessling speaks at the recognition assembly May 6. Wessling received the national teacher of the year award on April 29 at a ceremony in the White House Rose Garden.

a wonderful support system.”

Obama on April 29.

Before the winner was announced on April 22, the fi-

Michael Knoedel/BW

portive,” she said. “No teacher can do his or her job without

ment, so I had to keep my emotions at bay.”

While in D.C., Wessling and the other teachers of the

“I didn’t think wearing khakis and a sweater, like I do at keep her hair out of her face, she decided to straighten it.

Although she has received national recognition for her

year met and went behind-the-scenes at the Smithsonian

teaching ability, Wessling intends to return to Johnston af-

Wessling said. “It has been amazing to get to know them.”

as I’m teaching high school English, I want to stay in John-

Museum. “I had a wonderful time with my new colleagues,” Later, the group met with Vice President Joe Biden and

his wife Jill in their home. Another night, they had a black-

ter her stint as National Teacher of the Year ends. “As long

ston,” she said. She also plans to continue teaching rather than pursuing another career path. “I need to teach.”

Students and staff applaud speakers during Wessling’s recognition assembly in the big gym May 6.

student council

Kyle Soyer/BW

updates

recent results.

upcoming events.

in-progress.

can & bottle drive

senior picnic

school supply drive

Over 8,000 cans were collected to make a total of $400+ to go towards the shipping of the supplies to the troops as well as a care package to Mr. Madsen

May 24. 9 a.m-1p.m. at Sandpiper.

Drop off old notebooks (rip old pages out), and any other supplies in the boxes scattered throughout the school (commons and library). Supplies will be donated to Molton Elementary

editorial

May 10

p5

The best education around Our district excels at providing students with a wide range of opportunities for to gain valuable experience and skills for the rest of their lives

Budget cuts, pink slips, and protests. The news is riddled with these sad events that

are occurring all over the country. As Iowans we have managed to avoid many of these things, but unfortunately, this is no longer true.

of its’ teachers in an effort to offset a lack of funding. These cuts happened right after the district was forced to make massive cuts to its’ music programs.

We have been very lucky to never really have to deal with problems like these, and

Johnston’s very own neighbors are being forced to fire numerous teachers and cut

many people do not fully appreciate this. So in a way of enlightening those who do not

Late in April, the Des Moines Public School District was forced to hand pink slips to 74

few things we appreciate most.

numerous programs that many of us take for granted.

1

understand and as a way to say thank you, the Black & White has decided to highlight a

3

Quality in teaching It has been made obvious that we

have an elite staff of teachers, after one

of our own has rewarded National Teacher of the Year. This is representation and a reflection of the exceptional teaching

students receive here. We don’t realize the time and

Quality in sports For every season of the year,

there are many sports to choose from, for both girls and boys. There

are opportunities for everyone, no

mater their. The coaches are dedicated to their sports and their team.

It is a privilege to have so many coaches that know

energy our teachers put in to help us learn and prepare for whatever it is we decide to pursue. Many

what they are talking about and actually care.

us and our learning. Because of their degrees, we

portunities while they are offered. Johnston offers

preparing us for what is next.

all those who are interested.

So, get involved; don’t take for granted these op-

teachers have worked towards further degrees, for

teams ranging all the way down the skill ladder for

benefit with college credit. They have succeeded in

2

Quality in music

Helen Lagerblade/Dragon

Emily Welch/Dragon

Music is life for many students.

Our district has developed our music programs to such a level where our top show choir is competing in

a national competition in Nashville,

Tennessee, and our Jazz Syndicate is taking home

4

trict does well is it provides students

with the tools for their success.

From a brand new multi-million dollar weight room/fitness center to a

best it can to its students.

portunities for students are truly spectacular.

The quality does not stop with just buildings and

They started us young and sparked an interest

additions, the majority of computer labs in the high

in many; an interest that will last a lifetime. Music

school are equipped with top of the line Mac comput-

programs aren’t usually a priority for schools around

really shows something about our passion. Some

If there is one thing that the dis-

brand new dining facility, Johnston strives to give the

first place in the Iowa Jazz Championships; the op-

the nation, but it is pretty high up there for us. That

Quality in facilities

ers. When you combine this with everything else Rachel Meyer/Dragon

Philip Mortens/BW

students were even inspired enough to spend a day

that Johnston offers, it truly makes for a quality educational experience.

at the capitol protesting to cutting of music programs in other schools.

Some students will discover a passion that they will pursue for the rest of their lives,

others might just find a way to kill time. But when it comes down to it, they have been positively effected by the district’s effort.

These are just a few of the many ways that our district excels in offering a plethora of

opportunities for all of its’ students. But we also need to remember that there are other

districts that are not as fortunate as us. Many extracurricular activities that we take for

granted, are things of the past to others districts, cut due to lack of funds. So remember, be thankful, its the least you can do.

opinion

May 10

p6

Lack of complex creates problems words & layout Ryan Smaha

provided/CityofJohnston.com

The Johnston Sports Complex was voted down on Aug. 5, 2009 with 55 percent not approving. The proposed complex would have added 12 baseball fields, six soccer fields, four tennis courts, sand volleyball courts and basketball courts for public use.

The City of Johnston has many luxuries for citizens to

A sports complex is so needed that the Johnston Little

enjoy, and in many ways provides very nice facilities for the

League has had to cut down its schedule. Little League

our schools. However, we only have two full-sized baseball

ston’s has a 16-game schedule, but for the last three years,

public to use, like the library, the fitness center, and even

fields, two tennis courts (which aren’t very playable) and

five soccer fields, not counting the school’s facilities. For a city of almost 16,000 people, this shows how much we are

lacking when it comes to providing the kids of our community with childhood sports experiences.

Taking a look around the metro area. Johnston is one of

the few areas without a sports complex. Ankeny has one.

International suggests that a Little League the size of John-

said. In the end, the city of Ankeny funded $3.6 million for the project, and private donations paid for $1.5 million.

The solution? Well, in this economic climate, it is hard

the league has operated using a 12-game schedule. Now,

to say. Should some local businesses step up and donate?

is small. However, playing little league is an experience

nies in the world right here in town with Pioneer; why not

the likelihood of Johnston producing the next Albert Pujols

that most kids enjoy. The economy may be a problem, but we should not limit the opportunities of future generations because we are afraid of paying higher taxes.

The City of Ankeny Parks and Recreation director Todd

Urbandale has one. Waukee has one. The list goes on

Redenius offered an alternate solution, saying that their

sports complexes.

because of outside funding. “One thing that helped for us in

and on. Even predominantly rural towns, like Grimes, have

Ankeny was support from private organizations,” Redenius

sports complex was not as much of a burden on the city

We have one of the most successful agricultural compa-

ask them for donations? Or maybe it would have to come to the Johnston Soccer Club, Johnston Little League and other organizations working together to privately fund a complex that would build more fields for the organizations.

Either way, the need for a complex is pressing, and it’s our

responsibility as citizens to provide the best facilities for the future.

Farewell childhood, farewell Johnston

cares

HU

Embrace your childhood! In a few years

from now, you will look back on these years

?

words Kevin Hu

as the highest point of your life, the most carefree you’ll ever be the rest of your life.

You will remember your childhood, your roots, as times of your life you will never forget. You need to be able to look back at your childhood and have no regrets. You

will look back at your senior year and remember those crazy times as the peak of your life and wish you could be 18 again.

Here is a list of the top 5 memories of my

11 and a half years of education here. In no particular order:

1) Dominating 4-square, without lame

rules like cherry bombs, black magic, white magic, Asian magic and whatever else.

2) Doing PE teacher Shari Walling’s

crazy Halloween obstacle courses back in Beaver Creek. Most epic thing ever.

3) Winning the freshman dodgeball tour-

nament, ensuing a massive moshpit in the middle of the gymnasium and teachers losing control of students for the rest of the day.

4) Eating frosted animal crackers.

5) Being able to get triple extra entree

of Papa John’s pizza because of a combination of being in C-lunch and lunch ladies knowing my name and how much I eat.

I look forward to the future and will al-

ways remember JHS as my first step into

adulthood. Years from now, no matter how rich, how poor, how successful, how

Kevin Hu/BW

washed-up you are, remember JHS as your

roots. And remember your roots for the rest of your life.

Farewell Johnston. It has been an honor

to learn and grow up here. I wish you the best in the years to come.

May 10

opinion

SAYwhat?

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B&W senior staff put in their two cents worth @dwightlykins Facebook’s newest privacy settings have ruined the experience of facebook. According to research by @nytimes Mark Zuckerberg have made their popular social networking site, with over 400 million people on the website, a haven for stalkers and creeping like never before. Now even if your profile is set to private, most info is shared with anyone. To protect myself from crazy people hunting me down, I think it’s time to let facebook fall like xanga and myspace in the social networking cemetery. Twitter here I come.

@brennanwinget It’s become expected that all college freshman will gain excess weight. While we know that gaining weight in college is very common, do we really know why? A CBS report was cited saying “Possible explanations (for weight gain) include more drinking, more socializing that involves eating, high-fat foods in dorm cafeterias and less physical activity.” If students spent more time in the fitness center rather than partying it would help their health and waistline.

@catherinecaracci Grammatical errors are everywhere in high schools. It seems that people don’t know how to speak properly. According to an article in the “Christian Science Monitor” by Ted Rueter, “the decline of the English language mirrors an ignorance and mediocrity in American society.” Speaking well is not as important to American citizens, and rules of grammar are often overlooked. Those who lack the ability to construct a sentence will be less likely to succeed in some college classes they may take.

@philmortens Wangsters---for the love of all that is holy, please pull up your pants and act like you have a shred of dignity and selfrespect. Even President Obama agrees, “brothers should pull up their pants.”

@ericoatts Saylorville Lake has been my sanity. It was one of the only things that made living in the landlocked Des Moines, Iowa bearable. I have looked forward to spring every year since I was little because I was able to go boating up at the lake 20 minutes away. According to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ Website, there are various areas for all the recreational activities there, including: camping, boating, hunting, fishing, biking, disc golfing, etc. In short, Saylorville is our very own glittering, crown jewel.

@michaelknoedel The school should fix up the tennis courts and add lights so that players can play at night. We are a high-quality school, and our courts should reflect that. Better courts may bring more attention to the tennis program. “It would help keep the courts open later so we don’t have to cram in short practice schedules,” player junior Blaine Schlawin said. @kieramorrill Don’t over-extend yourself, but don’t be afraid to branch out and meet people or try new things.

“It developes your social skills,” junior Jacob Hjelmaas said. Having lots of activities allows you to see high school from different perspectives. This will help avoid friend drama, remain objective, and stay open-minded. @kevinhu “Rumor has it that there is an underground bomb shelter, in a tunnel that leads from the middle school to the high school underneath the parking lot. “Built back in WWII in case of Japanese air strikes, it was stumbled upon by a transfer student from South Dakota,” senior Tanner Gardiner said. “He was never seen again.”

@juliamanning Not saying we should grunt like the boys, @juliamanning1212 but girls---strength training (lifting) is a vital part to staying in shape. Don’t be scared to do it because society says it is gross/weird and “manly.”

If you want the “perfect” body, unless you already have a naturally modelesque toned one (p.s. I hate you) eventually you are going to have to enter the weight room.

The health benefits are also numerous.

According to Dr. Barry A. Franklin, of William Beaumont Hospital in Michigan, weight training can improve cardiovascular health in several ways. Heart disease is the number one killer for women, yikes! So seriously, DO IT!

@kallenkramer Count your blessings. Write them down, send thank you cards to everyone. “When you stop to think about what you’re grateful for, you realize there are people out there looking out for you,” Michael McCullough, Ph.D., associate professor of psychology at the University of Miami said. Not only does writing a card mean a lot to someone, it doesn’t take that much time, and it makes you feel better about yourself too.

@laurengehrke It only takes 20 seconds, a glob of soap, and a little water and you can prevent so many germs from spreading.

It’s hand washing. Fifty percent of high school students say they wash their hands and of this 50, 33 percent of girls and only 8 percent of boys use soap according to the Minnesota Department of Health.

None of this courtesy rinses with just water, use soap and wash up!

@michaelcarlson The principles of Leave No Trace allow people to enjoy parks and wilderness areas, and not harm the area around them. According to the Leave No Trace website, if you Prepare and Plan ahead for your trip, you will greatly decrease your impact on the environment. Decreasing your impact helps keep nature natural and fun.

@monishakumar Best Buddies, tutoring, watching children as their parents work on their GED are just some ways we can make a difference in our community. If compassion is not one of your qualities volunteering will still help you succeed. According to www.findcollegecards.com, when you volunteer you are opening up so many opportunities to make great relationships (networking) and that will help you in your career path. I have experienced both benefits of taking time to invest in others life and received information on scholarship opportunities. @kylesoyer Students need a better place to socialize during passing period. Having a conversation in the hallway creates traffic jams. “It’s mildly annoying,” senior Alex Grapp said.

“It’s a flaw in the design,”art teacher Daniel Weiss said.

“Architecture should be designed around what people need and how they behave.” Alcoves would be a sick nasty addition to our hallways.

opinion

May 10

p8

Grade revision gives rise to conflict A minus for the grade changes Throughout my high school career, I

words & layout Lauren Gehrke “It eliminates a gray area that teachers

Making GPAs fair, competitive Logging onto the computers at school

words & layout Alyssa Czapla our GPA. Nothing is final because it must

have often barely survived a class by scrap-

and students get into,” Hukee said.

I always check Infinite Campus, always.

is an A. But now, the school is going to take

the grading is not, especially for students.

in every class. But as I click each class I

used, but a 12-point system is in the works.

be in big trouble, and I know a lot of other

to boost their grade to the next point and I

letter grade, after all, they do not make

the percent is not going to be shown, why

ing by with the grade I need, knowing an A that away. If I were not graduating, I would people will be.

Now I know it may not seem fair to the

kid who gets a 98 percent A in the same

class that I get a 90.4 percent A-, but to me, it seems perfectly fair. I worked hard

to keep my grade where it was. And when I am lucky enough to receive an 98 percent,

While the participation change is good,

Teachers will be bombarded with requests

feel that in the end, they may regret what they wanted so much in the first place.

We all know that the grading system may

not be exactly fair, but we like it the way it is and we are used to it.

The grading should remain the same.

It is a habit; I have to know what I have

ignore the plus or minus sign behind the

a difference. My 90.02 percent is the exact same as someone else’s 97 percent, even though we all know that is not fair.

The policy committee has recently pro-

posed a change in the grading system, to

include pluses and minuses counting in

be approved by the board.

Right now, a five-point grading system is

Our reports cards show B+, B or B-, but if use them? We are ranked with or without the sign; we should well make them count.

“Sorry, but life is about ranking,” math

teacher Danielle Pippert said. “In real life

we do compare one student to another, that’s what pluses and minuses do.”

Pluses and minuses should count, be-

I do not care that another student got the

cause there is a big difference between a

English teacher Mark Schillerstrom is

line B, 79 percent. Many of us, including

same “grade” with a 90 percent.

boarder-line D, 70 percent, and a boarder-

undecided about the proposed change.

myself, have spent the quarter slacking off,

“I can see both ways,” Schillerstrom

just enough to get an A, but if pluses and

said. “We get too caught up in the grade

minuses counted, you get what you earn.

and not what people are learning.”

Right now, an A is an A. And as finals

I agree. Last year, I checked my grades

are nearing I am calculating what I need to

is good to see how you are doing, it is too

with the same rigor,” Pippert said. “[The kids

on Infinite Campus. While Infinite Campus

keep my A “If we want rigor, we need to end

easy to be checking constantly and getting

think] ‘I got my A, and it counts the same.’”

caught up in your grade and not what you

As long as I get my A, I’m happy.

are learning. Grades should not matter to

Changing the grading system could

us as students as much as the learning

get rid of the constant complaining about

I know that is never going to be possible.

an 89.97, but if that B+ counted better than

should, and being a high school student,

rounding up. We’ve all have. No one wants

This change would make students and par-

an 81, everyone might feel a little better

ents more grade obsessed.

about having a B+ instead of an A-.

“We had to be pragmatic in how we

I’m definitely not saying the school

looked at it,” Principal Bruce Hukee said.

should change the policies going into my

of doing this. There was lots of requests

ing freshman who have no class rank, why

“We really looked at the what is the purpose

senior year. I live for A-s, but for the incom-

from teachers.”

not truly rank them?

A for sure change is that participation is

Hopefully the grading system will change

going to be taken away. It is against Iowa law

and the participation grade will be gone.

that is what most teachers resorted to when

ing the removal of the participation grade.

grade. If you are at school, you get a point.

which is in our participation category. “If

to grade students based on attendance, but

The policy committee has been discuss-

it came to having a 10 percent participation

In Iowa, it’s illegal to grade on attendance,

If you are at home barfing up your eyeballs,

grades are based on attendance, then it’s

you do not. It is as simple as that.

a hard grade for teachers to calculate,” Pip-

“A student can be present without par-

pert said. “It’s an extra amount of time with

ticipating,” Schillerstrom said, “So what are

nothing to do with the tests, quizzes and

we grading on?”

Some teachers may opt to have a par-

ticipation grade still, but this will be just that; participation.

homework.” Attendance needs to be gone.

Yiming Qin/BW

In the real world, we will be ranked, it’s

life and sure it’s not fair, but neither is our current grading system.

review

May 10

p9

Mornin’ munchies words Ethan Meng and Zach Winjum layout Kallen Kramer New owner,

new location, old bar? When

walking into Urbandale Cafe the first thing

you wonder is if you are even in the right place. The

space has had over three prior owners and restaurants in the

last few years, all of which had been sports bars.

From the start the service was quick and efficient. One waiter was pres-

ent at the time but a fantastic job of serving four other tables as well as our

There is one

own.

word that comes to mind when 5775 Merle Hay Road thinking about Brickhouse café and that word is Johnston, IA (515) 276-4940 simple. There is nothing especially unique about this small

The size of the café is much larger than what you would expect a cafe to be. This

made it seem out of the ordinary to have less than 20 people at any time during the day

especially with the small Wednesday morning crowd which was less than 10.

café, which is located on Merle Hay and that is the best part about

The old bar was not in use, but other tables and booths are scattered throughout the

it. It is not an over the top chain restaurant where one goes to get medio-

cafe.

cre breakfast, rather a locally owned piece of Johnston with great breakfast.

The menu at the café is a collection of typical breakfast favorites including pan-

cakes, eggs, bacon, sausage, hash browns, biscuits and gravy and any combination of

them. The only item the menu lacked was omelets.

The food was cooked almost at light speed and the portions were enormous. The

pancakes barely fit on the plate and were easily larger than a human head. Most items on the menu were under the price of five dollars.

The pancakes are the best money can buy. With the price of two pancakes and a side of

eggs under $5 most customers will leave with their wallets as full as their stomachs. Brickhouse easily has the best pancakes one can find for miles.

Although the pancakes were big they tasted slightly burnt and were a bit of a

chore to finish. The eggs, bacon and hash browns were much better than the pancakes by comparison.

Along with great food comes great service. Only one waitress was working at Brickhouse

yet she is a server that any restaurant would be lucky to have. Her light speed service was

Urbandale Cafe offers sub par quality breakfast food for a very inexpensive price. The service from our waiter

very surprising for the amount of people already seated. She also had great attitude

was what truly made the breakfast experi-

and her phenomenal service would make anybody want to come back.

ence enjoyable.

Urbandale

The atmosphere in the café also has a nice reserved feeling to it. While walk-

ing in the door you are overwhelmed by the homey feeling of your own

Cafe

kitchen yet space can sometimes be an issue. With about ten tables and three seats at the counter finding a place to sit may be a challenge, especially if there are more than a few people already there.

Mason jars used as drinking

glasses and cowboy hats found along the wall, the

Iowa Machine Shed distinctly resembles an old western movie.

With the location directly next to Living History Farms, it looks as if it were

an eating establishment from the 1800’s.

The Iowa Machine Shed offers the best breakfast buffet one can find for $10.99. Om-

elets are prepared fresh to meet your specific desires. The hot pancakes and waffles are also

prepared fresh in front of you. The buffet also consists of biscuits and gravy, sausage and crisp

bacon, all kinds of fresh fruit, and hash brown casserole.

Located at the front of the restaurant is an old-fashioned store with all kinds of items one would

find in an antique shop. If seating is a problem due to the extensive crowd, the shop can be used as an outlet for one to rummage through unique items.

The restaurant had many full tables with large families. There was a fairly large crowd

at 10 a.m. The quality of the food was well above expectations and the only time I had to wait was for my omelet, which turned out wonderful. It was cooked all the way through and had the perfect proportions of the vegetables that I asked for.

11151 Hickman Road Clive, IA (515) 270-6818

The Machine Shed is the place for you if you are looking for delicious food that will keep you full for a while.

3828 100th Street Urbandale, IA (515) 252-7394

May 10

entertainment

p10

Summer music festivals words & layout Monisha Kumar & Ian Dunshee

80/35 music festival, 2009

courtesy of Phil Thomson

You r wh o so l oud le body som s my etim hakes f a v - So o the e rit s; th pho bas mor e part a t’s d s is . e, C efin al G a reu tely ning

80/35

“

When: Saturday, July 3rd Sunday July 4th Where: Western Gateway Park, Des Moines

The Barn

Time: Not Released

When: Saturday, June 19th

Admission: One Day Ticket- $25, two day ticket- $40 V.I.P. Pass - $175 www.midwesttix.com

Where: Simpson Barn, Johnston Time: starts 7:00 pm.

Line up: Spoon, Modest Mouse, Sarah Watkins, AVI Buffalo, Christopher the Conquered, Particle, Slightly Stoopid, Cahses Rivers.

Admission: free concert Line up: Buster & the Punks, Oringe, Foxboro, and Young Drew

the d an any le m p eo e so p the to se oo! k t c t ba u ge eap d i h o la . Y lly c w e o r a h a e n er for r appi ve h o l L p I s os nd rtney m a t b ou a od ior, C o g en

“

“

“

-S

515 Alive When: Saturday, August 7th Where: Downtown Des Moines Time: Coming soon Admission: General Admission- $5 Line up: www.515alive.com

May 10

entertainment

p4

SaylorvilleFUN words Michael Carlson layout Kallen Kramer

Kallen Kramer/BW

Senior Cody Walkup fishes at the Saylorville spillway in Dave Beason’s Outdoor Pursuits P.E. class. No one in the class caught anything during the block period, the best time to fish at this location is in the early morning.

Commonly caught fish

Largemouth Bass

Neal Smith Trail: Starting May 10 the major bike, and hiking trail will be closing from the Saylorville Lake Visitor Center to NW 90th. From NW 90th street in Ankeny, north to Big Creek State Park, culverts to allow the water to pass under the trail and not erode the trail will be added in.

The trail will still be open, with flag men direction traffic on trail.

The construction will be used to widen the trail to ten feet. They will also be fixing erosion concerns, improving the safety of the trail, and repaving some parking lot access points.

Walleye

Disc Golfing: The Walnut Ridge Recreation Area is the best, and only place for disc golfing at Saylorville Lake. It has all 18 holes. They are really easy to follow, and span the whole recreation area. Big Creek State Park, just up the street from Saylorville Lake, also has a disc golf course. Disc golfing is a wonderful way to get exercise and to also see more of the park than just from the road.

Smallmouth Bass

Muskie

Fishing: Fishing is easily the most popular activity at Saylorville Lake, all year round. The trail to the right of the boat ramp at Walnut Ridge recreation area leads to a dock. “I learned that this dock has rocks under it, which attracts cat fish that hide underneath the rocks and thus create an amazing place for fishing, ” senior Cody Walkup said.

Another great location to fish is right at the spillway. Early morning is the best time to go fishing there. It is a prime location because the catfish like to hide there, and in the morning they are very tired which makes it easy to catch them.

meet me at double-truck

May 10

p12/13

the market it’s goin’ down(town)

LIVE MUSIC

BAKED GOODS

JEWELRY

when: Saturday mornings 7am-noon May 1-October 30 where: Court Avenue District downtown Des Moines

PURSES

Visit www.desmoinesfarmersmarket.com to find:

CLOTHES

BREAKFAST

tie dye

BIKE

approx. 9 miles (one way) paved trail, mostly flat, easy

the BESTof the best

Farmboys

breakfast burritos

Brandmeyer

popcorn company

(trailhead past the Johnston soccer fields and over the bridge on the right) Head southwest on Trestle to Trestle trail 3.8 miles at the first “T” turn right

DSM River Connection trail

4.08 miles at the second “T” turn right

Downtown Connection-Walnut Street

<1 mile valet parking at Court Avenue parking garage across from Legends for more detailed and alternate routes visit http://dsmbikecollective.org/FarmersMarket

made to order fresh and filling long line moves fast

ETHNIC OPTIONS

22 fresh flavors

SOMETHING ITALIAN

VALET

S’mores

map of the market coupons volunteer online store

SALOO’S INDIA HMONG EGG ROLLS

gumball machines

fresh Iowa produce

One-of-a-kind stands

FREE

what’s in season list of vendors events driving directions

compiled by Kallen Kramer

feature

May 10

Get to know

p14

Brandon Korkow 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 sophomore Brandon Korkow; get to know him!

words & layout Kiera Morrill Staying active and eating right are uncom-

mon in teenagers who juggle activities, school

and friends, but sophomore Brandon Korkow does not have to think twice about controlling

any junk food cravings. Walking into his kitchen after coming home from a hard tennis practice, Korkow won’t reach for the typical snack.

Instead, he chooses a healthier option, but not

necessarily because he is worried about staying fit for sports.

“I come home and eat an apple, Granny

Smith, if I had to pick a favorite apple,” Korkow said.

Korkow prefers to indulge in fresh fruits

rather than junk food or sweets. His sister, senior Amanda Korkow, notices how easy it is for him to avoid bad eating habits.

“He doesn’t really eat junk food except for

chips and ranch,” Korkow said.

Going to birthday parties and other celebra-

tions where a typical cake is served would be

the ultimate test for any sweet eater, but for

Korkow there is no hesitation. Korkow avoids the cake as well as other sugary sweets and

again opts for fruit, or avoids an extra snack

all-together. Besides his obvious niche for fruits, Korkow also enjoys creating his own treats outside on the grill.

“Grilling’s not too hard, just gotta know

Korkow Family/Provided

“

when to flip it,” Korkow said.

I like fruit better than chocolate... it’s addicting.

-brandon korkow

”

Korkow grills steak or hamburgers for fam-

ily dinners, a skill he learned from his dad.

“He likes to grill with our dad, it’s sort of

their bonding time,” Amanda said.

Being a full-time student as well as an ath-

lete can make life hectic, especially if you factor in taking time to eat healthy.

feature

May 10

Gettingcaught

p15 words & layout Kristine Hayes

Why is it that two people can get in trouble by drinking underage but have two different punishments? No one seemed to have the answers, and the laws were unclear. The “Black & White” sat down with Sgt. Craig Porter of the Johnston Police Department. Here is what can happen in different situations.

Scenario 1 Offense: You are 17 and at a friend’s party. The police show up and start testing. You have a BAC of .000 percent.

Punishment: Nothing. You are allowed to leave.

Scenario 2 Offense: The police break up a party that you go to, and a ton of people are caught. You have a BAC of .002 percent, which is over your limit because you are 17.

Punishment: Either Rethinking Drinking (depends on how you act in the officers’ presence and whether you have been in trouble before) or juvenile court. Your parents are also called, and they must pick you up.

Scenario 3

Offense: It is your birthday and you have just turned 19. You decide to hit a house party with some friends to celebrate.

The police see the cars, and the party is busted. Alcohol is there, so the cops start testing everyone. You have had a few, so your BAC is .002 percent.

Punishment: Adult court or Rethinking Drinking (again, depending on previous offenses and conduct).

Scenario 4 Offense: Suppose the same thing happens as described in Scenario 3 except you decide not to drink and, when the police test you, your BAC is .000 percent.

Punishment: Nothing, you can leave.

Scenario 5 Offense: You have alcohol in your car and someone finds it at a football game. (This would apply to both on- and off-campus school-related activities.)

Punishment: (Depending on age) adult or juvenile court or Rethinking Drinking, school involvement and suspension.

NOTE: All cases can have better or worse outcomes depending on

your conduct. If the police have to deal with your attitude or a physical fight, they are not going to have anything remotely nice to say in the report. If you are respectful, then it will reflect on your records.

Mahanna massages words & layout Kelsey Kruse Two summers ago in Kyoto, Japan, senior Matt Mah-

anna gets a massage. Mahanna said his back always hurts and his knees crack, but after that massage he was good to go for 3 days. This marked the beginning of Mahanna’s

techniques and oils. Mahanna said oils are important because they hydrate the skin.

Along with oils, Mahanna has the other necessary sup-

plies for massage such as towels, sheets, pillows and a table. “I have a professional grade table at my house,” Mahanna said. “My dad bought the table for us two Christmases ago so he could practice more.”

Mahanna uses the table for practice as well. “For me,

it’s just learning something that’s abstract that not a lot of people know how to do,” Mahanna said.

Most of the time Mahanna practices on friends. Senior

Alex Knee said, “If my back was hurting really bad, espe-

into it,” Mahanna said. “(My dad) is interested in Japan and

something and he would crack my back.” Simple as that,

the culture and massaging. Mahanna said the Japanese are health-oriented people.

cially after football, I would give (Mahanna) 5 dollars or his back pain would go away.

Mahanna does not have a degree, but he has looked

Mahanna learned a hand massage technique while he

into it. “It’s more of a side passion than a set career, in my

in the fingers,” Mahanna said, “It can hyper-extend the fin-

program lasted two years. “I thought it would be a certifi-

was in Japan. “It’s a hand massage that helps circulation gers.” Hyper-extension releases the joints and helps blood flow. He said it was a technique that you wouldn’t normally

Mahanna gives free massages on his own massage table.

day, demonstrates how to give massages using different

real interest in massage therapy.

“(Massage Therapy) sparked kind of from my dad who’s

Kyle Soyer/BW

“Therapeutic Massage.” A massage therapist, Donna Sun-

think of using, but it can benefit people.

There are many techniques when it comes to massage

therapy. Mahanna learns his from a series of DVDs called

mind,” Mahanna said. He found an online course, but the

cate like ‘Hey, you’re a massage guy now,’” Mahanna said.

But it’s a “legit college course.”

For now, massage is just a hobby. “I’m interested in how

the body works,” Mahanna said, “And to heal in a non-traditional way is cool.”

daddy? feature

May 10

“

moms usually get all of the attention, so it’s about time the dads get some credit words

all photos provided by families

nora lutter

If any ordinary person saw Brian Lutter running at them from

lily mead

} “ A

daughter Nora.

saw the name “Nora” after a movie in the credits and found it to be unique, and Grace is Amy’s Grandma’s middle name.

You definitely look

thing to do with his daughter is just getting to come home and getting

ferently. You want

to be with her. “On Saturday mornings, I like to just relax and have her

better for your kids

”

than you ever had.

} “ A } “ A

Q{

fall asleep in my arms,” Lutter said.

But it’s not always relaxing when it comes to caring for a child.

Children need constant attention at this age.

This being Lutter’s first child, his schedule has been affected by

changes in his daily routine and his (lack of) sleep cycle.

Fatherhood brings into it much confusion with the rewarding good

times; often one looks for outside advice.

The best moment I’ve had with her was the first time I was able to

”

make her laugh.

Since Lutter has only been a father for a short time. He often

children, and what he should worry about, or if he needs to worry at

What is your favorite thing to do with your daughter?

all. “It’s really awesome to know she’s a part of me,” Lutter said. “It is a lot of work, but it’s rewarding work.”

I love putting her to bed because she falls

”

asleep in my arms.

Q{

seeks advice from other fathers. Lutter said he asks his father and

He asks them about their experiences, how they dealt with their

Visit theblackandwhiteonline.com for more information and pics of teaching dads and their bundles of joy.

} “ A }“ A } “ A

What’s the best moment you’ve had with your daughter?

“We’re just kind of guessing what to do,” Lutter said.

other fathers in the school for advice. “I’m learning as I go.”

lily brickley

How has your life been impacted by being a father?

Lutter often has rather long days at school; his current favorite

at the world dif-

Andy Halterman & Jon Houp Andy Halterman

mr. brickley and

the opposite direction. But this is not the case for his three-month-old

is surprised about how much he likes being her dad. Lutter and Amy

What’s the best moment you’ve had with your daughter?

Q{

down the hallway arms wide open, one might scream and sprint in

Nora Grace Lutter is Lutter and his wife Amy’s first child, and he

How has your life been impacted by being a father?

Q{

layout

mr. lutter and

mr. mead and Q{

”

who’s

your

p16

Q{

Every decision you make isn’t about me or my wife anymore,

”

its about (Lily).

When I taught her how to high five.

When I drop her off for daycare now, I give her a high five

”

and she laughs.

What is your favorite thing to do with your daughter?

(I am) a big fan of going on walks, and she can point out dogs, people, say hi and wave.

”

feature

May 10

BBQ Skillz

Dwight Lykins

words & layout

Gather Everything You Need There are two main types of grills: charcoal and gas. Each has its own strengths and weaknesses. Gas takes less time, but charcoal can add more flavor to whatever you are cooking. We’re going to focus on charcoal

p17

Try it out.

Here’s a simple recipe for you to start out with on the grill, and if you’re a pro, it’s also a great thing to try. Plus, it’s corn, and in Iowa, there is plenty of that around.

grilling. To make a perfect meal you’re going to

need two trays for the meat, tongs or spatula,

Take a few ears of corn; the recipe we made was eight ears, plenty for a whole family. You’re going to want to buy them with the husks still on them.

charcoal, lighter fluid and a lighter with a longer barrel so you don’t burn your hand.

Prep Food / and Light Grill.

Spicing the meat is a huge part of grilling. Some classic spices

include dry rubs (see right), sea

salt and chili pepper, but anything works; be creative. Lighting a

charcoal grill is an art form. First

off, cover the bottom of your grill with charcoal rocks, which are

Next we’re going to make a pesto to go with the corn to give it that extra flavor you don’t normally get. You’re going to want to gather 1/2 cup cilantro leaves; 2 tablespoons lime juice; 1 garlic clove, peeled; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon finely ground fresh black pepper; 1/4 cup canola or vegetable oil and 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil.

Place the corn still on in its husk over medium heat. Keep on heat until you gently char the corn on all sides. This will probably take you about 5 to 7 minutes.

called briquettes. Soak the charcoal with about 1/2 cup of lighter

fluid and give it a light. The rocks

will not have a flame for long, but

DO NOT add more lighter fluid or you will get a gross taste out of whatever you are cooking.

Serve to your proud parents, or to an impressed possible girlfriend, with some limes and butter on the side and prepare to have your taste buds experience corn like never before.

Remove from heat and brush pesto onto the kernels generously; the more the better.

Watch The Temp

Every type of meat has an ideal temperature it needs to reach

before you take it off the grill. Make

sure it reaches that temp before you

take it off, otherwise you could get sick.

To do this, you need a meat thermom-

eter that you can buy for a few dollars at a

4

grocery store. You need to insert the prod into the meat up to the dimple on the side of the

The Perfect Dry Rub. BBQ is all about being creative with your food; the best way to do that on the grill is to add a bit of spice to your meat. Here is a Kansas City BBQ-style rub perfect for ribs or other beef.

metal. Here are a few common temps to remem-

1/2 cup brown sugar 1/4 cup paprika 1 tablespoon black pepper 1 tablespoon salt 1 tablespoon chili powder 1 tablespoon garlic powder 1 tablespoon onion powder 1 teaspoon cayenne

ber: hamburgers need to be around 160 degrees, chicken 165-175 and pork around the 150 mark.

Steaks all depend on how well you want them cooked

Combine in a bowl and transfer to an airtight container and store in a pantry for whenever you need a good spice mix.

for a nice medium steak, shoot for 140

Eat and Enjoy photos provided by epicurious.com

May 10

fashion

p18

style

this season’s best online fashion finds words & layout

Kelly McGowan

Surfer style

eclectic vintage:

SWELL.com Based out of San Clemente, California, Swell provides California-style surfer clothing, shoes and ac-

ModCloth is an online retailer that sells vintage-inspired indie designer clothes and adds one vintage item to the site daily. It is a fun, interactive shopping site, with the ModLife blog and a program where

you can “Be the Buyer” and have input on what they will sell. The site is full of fun, eclectic, well-priced items for bringing out your retro side.

cessories from brands like Billabong, Quicksilver, RVCA, Hurley and more. Their laid-back site is ap-

pealing and easily navigable. Surf around this site for lots of unique gear and clothes for both guys and girls.

Nursery Rhyme Dress $94.99

Summer splurge Piperlime.gap.com This store, part of the Gap, Banana Republic and

Dorothy Heel $101.99

Old Navy company is a pricier site. It has a lot of summery styles that range from $50—$300 for

Vanilla Skies Parasol $49.99 An-jewel-ic Necklace $19.99 You’re my bow, blue bag $44.99

shoes, tees, shorts and skirts. They have higher prices but always offer free shipping and returns.

Boho-Inspired store.alloy.com If you are looking for a Bohemian style wardrobe,

Alloy offers boho tops priced around $30 each. Its

Tips

chill vibe is perfect for a laid-back summer vibe.

for shopping online Try on items with similar cuts or fabrics from stores near you so you don’t get stuck with something you don’t like.

Know your exact size measurements; write this information down and keep it by the computer so you get the right size every time

Find out the return policy. Many sites may need to have items returned within seven days, and you may need to pay those shipping costs. Knowing this information could save you money.

Sign up to receive E-mails from the online shops you like. They will often send discounts, free shipping offers and specials.

health

: S R E ST

May 10

p19

U B H T vitamin style Y M 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

words Liz Waller layout Julia Manning

Take Vitamin C to prevent colds

All winter we are told to drink vitamin C-filled waters and foods to prevent us from getting colds and the flu. However, vitamin C does not cure you of the cold or prevent it from coming. But one thing the vitamin can do? Cut the duration of a cold by a day! However, to have these results you must take it everyday for a year. People who should be taking large amounts of vitamin C are smokers and and those who heavily drink alcohol. TRY---emergen-C drink tablet, naturemade vitamin C pills

Multivitamins solve all of your problems Taking a little bit of each vitamin to cure your unhealthy diet is the wrong answer. Overdosing on particular vitamins like vitamin A can give you headaches and other minor illnesses. There is also the issue of iron. Teens who eat normal amounts of meat do not need the extra iron that comes in many multivitamins, and overdosing on it can cause serious heart damage. When picking out a multivitamin, make sure that it is light on vitamin A and C and heavier on vitamins B and D, which help strengthen bones and raise metabolism.

“Take this, and you won’t get heart disease” When you look at vitamin bottles for purchase, look closely. Most labels will say, “can prevent heart disease,” or, “shown to help lower cholesterol.” Make sure to look at the wording closely. It never promises anything. To ensure positive results, take Omega 3 fish oils.

According to the US National Library of Medicine, taking these supplements reduces the risk of heart attacks, strokes and high blood pressure, along with helping to prevent diabetes, depression, cancer and other diseases.

Your body does not absorb vitamins This is partly true. If the vitamin you are taking is made with synthetic materials, then the body cannot process the ingredients and therefore cannot help you in any way. However, if the vitamin is made with raw or whole foods, the body can absorb all of the nutrients.

Vitamins are also 85 percent more efficient in liquid form because pills absorb at a much slower rate than liquids.

It cannot hurt to take them This is completely false. Too much of anything can hurt your body. Eating too many bananas can make your potassium level too high. Drinking too much or too little caffeine can give you a headache. The best way to know which vitamins you should be taking is to make a food diary for a week. Look at what vitamins you are getting too much and too little of, and accommodate your vitamin intake accordingly. Choosing type of vitamin and dosage is unique for everyone. “There’s not a clear cut answer for everyone,” GNC employee Sara Decklever said. “There are a lot of questions to answer before picking your vitamin. Like, ‘what’s your daily exercise regime’ or ‘what are your eating habits like?’” provided/gnc

BEST VITAMIN BRANDS

“

People of all ages should take vitamins to keep up good heart and eye health...I take 20 different vitamins, and I can’t name the last time I was sick.

”

-Sara Decklever (gnc employee @ merle hay mall)

GNC

This multivitamin supplies you with all the vitamins lacking in your diet and does not give you excess of unnecessary vitamins. Instead, it is filled with Vitamin B and D. Raw One is designed to replace your coffee or caffeinated soda with the raw energy it is filled with. It also helps fight off headaches and strengthen your immune system. women’s (or men’s) ultra mega active

GARDEN OF LIFE

According to two different vitamin retailers, this is the best brand available. Where GNC is made with whole foods, Garden of Life is made with raw ingredients, making it easier for the body to absorb the nutrients. It supplies you with everything you need to get through the day, whatever your diet may be.

dungeon

May 10

p20

words & layout Michael Knoedel

1

Team Bonding

Success

The girls are not only together on the court, but off it as well. Team eat-outs, shopping sprees and even sleep-overs are very common. “At our sleep overs, we have dance-offs to get pumped up for the next meet,” Martha Carroll said. Before every meet, the team gets together for a pasta dinner at one of the players’ houses. Good food and fun takes away the stress

starts with

of the competition.

Love-Love

Payton Kintz ‘13 Freshman Payton Kintz is #1 singles and

doubles for the team. Her singles record is

7-2; her only two losses were to Ames’ dou-

bles state champ and Marshalltown’s singles state champ. “I haven’t had a tennis player

come this prepared ever since I’ve been coach,” Ben Knight said.

2

Commitment For most of the girls, tennis is their sport. The spe-

4

cialization of most of the girls creates a passion

that otherwise would be lost. “In previous years, we’ve had to share with volleyball or softball,” Knight said. “But this year, they’re all for tennis.”

3

Young Team Out of the entire ten-person varsity team, only three people will be

graduating, and the top four will be returning. Even in the top four,

Friendship The girls are much more than just a team; they are friends. This friendship creates

a positive tennis environment which takes away the fear of failure. One game the

girls play together is called World Cup. They split up into teams of four and play as

a “country”. Each country sends a representative player to another court to play

a “championship” while the other three play against another country’s challenger.

They play until one country wins the World Cup. Although the game isn’t just for fun, fun rivalries and inside jokes bloom from the experience together. “We all have our

three of them are sophomores or

freshmen, which means at least

two good years are yet to come.

The team went 5-4 in head-to-

head matches and 2-0 in tournaments. Three of the head-to-head matches were close losses; 5-6.

own friends,” junior Paige Collison said. “But we all love each other just as much.”

m a e T Meet the

ldes

Morgan Fo

“Mo-Mo”

‘10

orkow Amanda K

“Club Leader”

‘10

rroll

Martha Ca

“S-Fresh”

‘12

Jenna Heil

“FEZ”

‘11

ison Paige Coll

“S-berry”

‘11

er

Haley Beav

“The Beav”

‘11

tz Payton Kin

“Freshy”

‘13

erman

Megan Ack

“B-nana”

‘10

sports

May 10

p21

Girls golf goes way back Golfers remember humble beginnings

Greg Monson and his dad,” Kane said.

TOP

asked if we found a sand wedge. My

A young Emily Kane poses for the camera as she prepares to tee off.

we would have eaten it by now. He hon-

BOTTOM

“Some guy in front of us came up and

dad said, ‘No if we found a sandwich

words & layout Spencer Vasey

estly thought the guy said sandwich.”

Kane is not the only girls’ golfer who

When senior Emily Kane was two years

got off to a rocky start. Junior Kristen

the tee, she swung the club and missed the

team, began golfing when she was six

spite this rocky start, 16 years into the future

varsity golfers Kane and seniors Bren-

old, she picked up her first golf club. Eyeing

Waite, who is ranked fourth on the

ball completely. Little did she know that de-

years old at Hyperion, alongside fellow

she would be the third-ranked golfer on the

nan Winget and Meridith Freese.

girls’ golf team.

“One time when I was about seven

“At first when I started playing, I was ter-

years old, I was golfing at Hyperion,”

scores, but I would practice and practice hard-

was really close to going in the water. I

Kane started her golfing career at Hyperion

up in the water. It was only the second

rible,” Kane said. “I would shoot such high

Waite said. “I went to hit my ball, and it

er every year.”

hit it so badly that I fell back and ended

Golf and Country Club, playing alongside her

hole.” Waite’s golfing mishaps did not

fact that I got to play with my dad,” Kane said.

fellow golfer in the foot with a wild shot.

shots and about the rules of golf.”

Waite said. “All of the people around

ten be found playing in tournaments with her

because it actually caused the ball to

in the parent child tournament with (senior)

Despite their failures at the begin-

father. “My favorite part was probably just the

end there. At the age of 10, she hit a

“He would teach me how to swing and hit good

“He jumped really high into the air,”

Throughout her childhood, Kane could of-

father. “I remember one time I was playing

us ran over to help out. It ended well bounce into the fairway.”

Senior Emily Kane prepares to chip her ball off of the fareway at a meet this season. ning of their careers, Waite, Kane and

Freese agree that they are better golfers now because of these mishaps.

Provided/Emily Kane

The team is currently ranked thir-

teenth in the state. Individually, Winget is ranked twenty-second and Kane and

Freese are ranked fortieth and forty-first respectively. On April 20, the team beat sixth-ranked Ankeny at a meet between the two schools at Jester Park.

“Growing up with golf in my life

has taught me honesty and patience,” Freese, who plays as the second-ranked golfer on the team, said.

Waite believes that every bad ex-

perience has made her a better player.

“Playing for so long makes me want to try harder at it and practice more,” she said, “because it is something to think about maybe playing in college.”

Helen Lagerblade/The Dragon

Pressure can affect athletes physically, mentally words & layout Scott Monroe

make their shots,” Weeks said. “To get (to

sport to feel the effects of late-match

lose after him was “demoralizing.” In soccer,

“Anybody can get an out. Getting the

of soccer. That leaves you mentally and

to Urbandale that featured a head-spinning

less as a collapse and more as a learning

This quote by Mariano Rivera, a future

the fact that the players taking the shots

a shootout), you have to play 100 minutes

last out… not very many guys can do that.”

physically fatigued, especially considering

Hall of Fame pitcher for the New York

in the shootout are probably the ones that

pressure. The boys’ tennis team lost a meet seven tiebreakers, all lost. Senior Ben Warrick, number two on the depth chart,

“It was really frustrating losing my

future,” Weeks said. “We have used those

pressure there is to do so. The same can

both of his shots, realizes the pressure to

matches because they were matches I

can be all-state talent, number one on the

“There is pressure, but it’s a situation

said. “When I got done with them, I was

be said for any sport. High school athletes

not miss the shootout kicks.

team, but pressure can get to anybody.

I’ve been in before, so it’s not too bad,”

practice,” boys’ soccer coach Heath Weeks

feel bad. You let the team down.”

“We stage game situations all the time in

said. “But you can’t mimic pressure.”

The boys’ soccer team recently lost two

Neumann said. “But still, if you miss, you Neumann also feels that it is his

responsibility as a team leader to pull

straight heartbreakers, both in shootouts, on

through and set an example.

Many shots were missed that Weeks felt

the team can do as best as we can,”

“Nine times out of ten, those guys would

Unfortunately, soccer wasn’t the only

April 20 to Valley and on April 23 to Ankeny. would normally go in.

“We all feel the responsibility to succeed;

Neumann said.

“Having a situation like that, where

the game is on their shoulders: that’s an

played most of the game.”

Sophomore Tyler Neumann, who made

tool.

thought stress and frustration played into

Yankees is referring to the immense

difficulty of finishing a game and how much

Weeks tries to view the situation differently,

the mini-collapse.

know for a fact I could have won,” Warrick

already stressed out. Then I find out that all of our other tiebreaker matches are losing.

experience that will prove useful in the

losses as experience for the players, so the next time we are in that situation, they will

feel more comfortable. We have learned from our mistakes.”

Only time will tell if these two sports will

I’m not saying that Urbandale has a bad

effectively use these situations as learning

just should have won.”

team has not lost since the Urbandale

team; they have a very decent team. We These

bitter

endings

have

more

repercussions than what is seen in the box

score. They can have an effect on a player’s mental state going forward. Warrick went as far as to say that seeing his teammates

experiences. So far, so good. The tennis meet, and the soccer team has done the

same. It helps to have a confident coach on your side as well.

Said Weeks, “Next time we’re in a

shootout, we’ll be prepared. We will win.”

sports

May 10

Pre-game

p22

Rituals how athletes get in the zone words & layout Evan Culbert “The zone.” We’ve all been there. That mental state of mind

team says it together, and it just gets everyone focused, and

are eager to tackle whatever challenge awaits, prepared to

traditional way of taking the field. “When we walk out onto the

where nothing can get to you. Focused and energized, you

for some it gets their spiritual side going.” The team also has a

perform. Each athlete has his or her own unique way of reach-

field we line up in rows of about five kids and hold hands as we

ing this level of determination. For some, it may be listening to

inspiring music. For others, it may be a superstition as bizarre as wearing lime green underwear each game. Every team or

walk onto the field,” Zinselmeier said. “It really gets that team element, you have to play together to overcome adversity.”

Superstitions often play a roll in the preparation for compe-

player knows what he must do to get in “the zone;” everyone

tition. Ranging from what to eat or wear to how to play, many

Many athletes, no matter what the sport, depend on music

omore Eric Bridgewater has habits while out in the field. “I’m

has a set of pre-game rituals.

are somewhat superstitious. When it comes to baseball, soph-

to help relax or get fired up for a game. For the football team, music helps players prepare before each game. “One thing

that gets us pumped up is the boom-box we always have in the

really superstitious about things being even or odd,” Bridgewater said. “When something goes good, like our pitcher throws

a strike, I’ll do something even, like blink an even amount of

locker room before the game,” sophomore Matt Zinselmeier

times, or swallow an even amount of times, or take an even

said. “It’s always playing heavy metal stuff or hard-core rap

amount of steps. If he throws a bad pitch, I’ll do something an

music to get us pumped and get our swagger going.”

odd amount of times.”

Members of the girls’ swim team get excited by using music

Eating the same food preceding a meet is common among

in another way. “Before every single meet, the seniors lead the

individual athletes. “My pre-meet meal is always half of a

junior Janelle Galang said. “We sing it in the locker room be-

Jackson said. “I also always wear white socks with the Nike

whole team in singing the song ‘Faith (by George Michaels),’”

peanut-butter jelly sandwich; that’s kind of my superstition,”

fore each meet to get us pumped up. The team has been do-

swoosh, and one of them is black and one of them is blue.”

ing it for a long time now.” The team also sings cheers on the

For the girls’ swim team, two weeks are dedicated to pre-

pool deck before each meet.

paring for district and state meets, where many traditional ritu-

be with his teammates prior to cross country races and often

Galang said. “Green means go, like a stoplight; green is the

Instead of listening to music, junior Drew Jackson prefers to

leads a team prayer before the meet. “We do a group prayer as a team before running,” Jackson said. “It’s not planned out or anything; usually someone leads it, and everyone kind of

chimes in. Most of the guys have somewhat of a faith, and I personally pray before every meet. I think it helps us focus, and get us to not worry as much.”

For the football team, prayer and team unity is also a way

to prepare. “Before every game, we would all get down on

a knee in the locker room and say the Lord’s Prayer,” Zinselmeier said. The optional prayer is led by teammates. “The

als take place. “During district and state week we go green,” time where we know we have to go fast.” The week includes

a special diet and a taper on the amount of yards. “Each practice, first we read motivating quotes, and before we get in the

pool, we do breathing exercises together,” Galang said.” To top off the week, a pasta party is held where everything ‘goes green’ and swimmers exchange gifts. To end the party, a group

relaxation takes place, led by the coach, to help the swimmers visualize success. “I think (go green) is a good way to get the whole team pumped and keep us together as a team, since it’s such an individualized sport,” Galang said.

What’s your snack?

“Before each meet, I like to munch down a Snickers, and chase it down with a G2 Gatorade. After the meet I like to enjoy a breaded tenderloin.”

“The morning of a volleyball tournament, I have dinosaur oatmeal, and on my way to the game I eat my gluten-free chex mix.”

“Right before we go out for the National Anthem, coach gives all the starters two gummy bears for a quick burst of sugar and energy.”

“Every time before I dive, I eat goldfish pretzels because I get nervous and it makes my stomach hurt, and the pretzels seem to neutralize it.”

Ethan Kumbera golf ‘11

Erika Gebard volleyball ‘12

Tyler Neumann soccer ‘12

Dahlia Gordon diving ‘11

Junior Drew Jackson sprints the final stretch at the Johnston Invite. Jackson wears mis-matched socks for each meet.

Provided/Drew Jackson

sports

May 10

p23

Breaking

Records

The shuttle hurdle relay team is breaking school records...one hurdle at a time words & layout Matt Knoedel Usually one would think that a school record would last

for a long time, at least a year. Not for the shuttle hurdle

relay team. The team’s school record didn’t last nearly as long. Try one week. The team doesn’t mind though, because they were the ones who broke their own school record..four times!

The shuttle hurdle relay team, which consists of seniors

Tommy Larson, Tyler Patten, Austin Polson, and junior Erick Bergstrom, broke the school shuttle hurdle relay record four times this year. The shuttle hurdle relay was added

into the track season four years ago and teams have been

Records Broken Meet

Date

Last year

-----

59.66 sec

Hoover meet

4/6

58.12 sec

Drake Relays

4/22

57.76 sec (DQ)

Districts

5/16

57.53 sec

State meet

5/20

TBD

cutting times rapidly as new techniques develop.

It is not often that a team has so much success in one

season though. According to Bergstrom, the difference from last year lies in team unity. “The hurdlers have really

bonded together more this year,” Bergstorm said. The team is together every day in practice and they don’t want to let

each other down. “Our chemistry as a team helps, we are a close bunch and work hard,” Larson said, “we put in the effort and time; no one slacks off. We know what our goal is and we don’t want to let each other down.”

Track coach Pat Mattingly agrees that the team is a unit.

“If you looked up in the dictionary what a team is, there would be a picture of these guys,” Mattingly said.

Another possible cause of their success is the new hur-

dle coach, Michael Dana. Under coach Dana, the practices

are fun, but also productive. “He has structured workouts and knows when to have fun and when to get to work,” Bergstom said. Coach Dana has helped so that the team can achieve their potential. “We seem to get a lot more

accomplished this year,” Polsen said. Dana has them practice starts off the blocks because a good start can be the most important part of a sprint race. “Our practice with the blocks really translates to the race,” Larson said.

Some memorable moments came out of the Drake

relays. “The whole experience and running with the elite

runners was cool,” Polsen said. But out of the relay came

controversy. The team started as the 10 seed in preliminaries and actually broke a school record in the early rounds.

Then, in the final round, the team set another school record, 57.76 seconds, but was disqualified. Waukee, who

would have gotten fourth place, got the silver medal. At the time, the Johnston shuttle hurdle team was upset (to

say the least) to have a record snatched from them, but

Time

*not all records listed they took positive motivation from the experience. “They

didn’t point fingers [after they were disqualified], they were in it together and they did what they had to do,” Mattingly

said. Larson and the team made t-shirts that say “Adversity

causes some men to break, and others to break records.”

On the back of the shirt, there is a yellow disqualification

flag with the words “Drake Relays” on it and their record of 57.76 that was taken from them.

The following week after the Drake relays, the hurdlers

from Waukee who received silver medals wore them to the

Ankeny invite. The Johnston team wanted to set the record straight and reclaim the medal they believed was theirs.

“In their minds, they had something to prove,” Mattingly said. In an emotionally charged race, the team beat Waukee and placed first at the meet.

At districts in Urbandale, the squad overcame the

adversity that came from the Drake relays and beat their

record with a time of 57.53 seconds. “All records are made to be broken,” Larson said.

The team hopes to break their record again at the state

meet this Thursday and Saturday. It would be a monumental finish to an already magical season. They are ranked

first going in to the meet with high hopes. If they succeed, they believe that their record will stand for a long time. “Our

goal is to get into the 56 second range, then I think it [their record] will be around for a while,” Bergstrom said.

The combination of teamwork and talent has led to a

season of breaking records. The records set this year may

last for a long time because most of the team is graduating. “Next year we will have to start from scratch,” Mattingly

said, “The records from this year will probably be maintained for a while.”

backpage

May 10

p24

Adios

seniors say

Ryan Francois- Hugs not drugs. And sleep is overrated; you can sleep when you’re dead.

Yiming Qin- Never ever procrastinate, once you start it’s really hard to stop.

I still procrastinate, especially since I’m a senior.. Alex Grieve- Respect the seniors, there’s not a lot of that going on this year. Alex Greig- Don’t have a full schedule your last semester. Margaret Taylor- Try to fight senioritis. It might not work, but you should try to fight it. Joe Payne- Take classes that you are interested in, and make sure you are in at least one activity, so you have something in common with a lot of people. I do a lot of ELP stuff, [and have met people through that] Krista Shoeman- Don’t take it personally when seniors cut you in line, you’ll get to do it too when you’re this cool.

Brad Kruse- Go to DMAAC your senior year because then you don’t have to be stuck in the high school. Also, don’t bring ammunition to school after a morning of turkey hunting because the school doesn’t like hunting. And if you bring wax worms from the Polk

Emily Eikenberry- Work hard. Play harder.

Ben Jacobson- High school is who you are and who you want to be, so make decisions based on what you want, not what your parents or friends want for you. J.B. Williams- Don’t do any illegal drugs.

Especially in public, recreational areas. Jake Klopenstein-Take a wide variety of classes to figure out what you like to do. Then narrow it down to a few things, and take ap courses in those. I took auto tech, chem and physics and I chose physics and I’m in AP now Leah Schmidt- Do what makes you happy. I worked my butt off in jazz band and I got to play and iba and jen. Plus I made allstate jazz band. Ryan Bower- Be involved in a variety of events. I tried few different things early on. I found some things I liked and City bait shop that comes in a chewing tobacco can, the school might search your car.

kept on those. I would have liked to have branched out a bit.

Gabbi Angleoni- It’s just high school. Don’t take it too seriously. Caleb Larkin- Don’t get to a bad start. When

you start skipping classes and doing less work it’s a lot easier to keep doing that. Also have a good attitude about school. The more you dread it the more of a self fufilling prophesy it becomes.

Ryan Francois

Yiming Qin

Alex Grieve

Alex Grieg

Margaret Taylor

Joe Payne

Krista Shoeman

Brad Kruse

Emily Eikenberry

Ben Jacobson

Leah Schmidt

J.B. Williams

Gabbi Angeloni

Caleb Larkin

words & layout Eric Oatts and Lauren Coffey