May 2012

& BW

What to pop: zits, knuckles, blisters

seven

B&W seniors give parting words

twelve

J-town good samaritans

thirteen

the black and white

SUMMIT student protest

page six

may 2012. volume 20 issue 9. 5152780449. 6501 NW 62nd ave. johnston. iowa

18

Doubletruck

Feature

3

Photo essay

8/9 K-12 through the years

4

DHS gets involved in local family Year-round school topic rises

Editorial

5

APUSH enrollment soars Newsbriefs

10

6

Sixth-grade protests Student rep added to board

Opinion

Health What should be popped

May 2012

16

News

7

the black and white

in this issue...

6

13 Two teachers leave district Scott Syroka is watching 14 ACT Pen pals with Oz

Leadership needs refocused

Sports 15 Cheer coach goes to track

11

Volunteering for more than cords Back to Besic / In Plain Sight

12

Staff seniors give final words

Kleve sisters run together

Backpage

16 Making jerky, sewing, and photos

STAFF EDITORS

SUB-EDITORS

Zach Winjum

news

Ashley Enger

Zach Peterson

Paige Cramer

Kenzie Foldes

Anne Rogers

Kristine Hayes

Taylor Joens

Sarah Ross

Ryan McGrew

Monica Gagne

sports

Wes Monroe

Laura Scieszinski

Hannah Soyer

Ben Parsons

Zoe Wilson

editor-in-chief

Taylor Mithelman co-design

Evan Culbert co-design

Lauren Coffey managing

Ian Dunshee photo

Cover Design: Evan Culbert

Mirza Besic backpage opinion

Mallorie Goodale Sarah Margolin feature

Scott Syroka doubletruck

STAFF WRITERS

Charles Fiedler Ashley Shay

ILLUSTRATOR Lisa VanWiel

PHILOSOPHY

The Black and White is published solely by the Johnston High School newspaper staff. Its goal is to inform, enlighten and entertain Johnston students. It is an open forum. In accordance with Iowa law and board policy, students assign and edit material and make all decisions of content. The paper is published nine times per school year. The paper will avoid material that is libelous, obscene or an invasion of privacy. The law does not require parental permission to use student quotes. Ethically, we believe students can speak for themselves. Staff editorials represent the opinion of a majority of the editorial board. Editorial and opinion pieces do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the adviser, school officials or the district. Letters to the editor must be signed. Like all material, letters may not be libelous, obscene or an invasion of privacy. Bring letters to room 413 within one week after publication to be considered for the next issue.

The Black and White strives to report accurate and timely information. If you believe that an error has been printed, please contact the editors at jhsblackandwhite@gmail.com. The Black and White is a member of CSPA, NSPA, Quill & Scroll, and IHSPA. Recent issues of the paper earned these honors: Columbia Scholastic Press Association Gold Medalist, National Scholastic Press Association First Class rating, Quill & Scroll Gallup Award, IHSPA state placings and sixth in the National Best of Show.

news

the b&wp.3

may 2012

April In Photos

Provided/Julie Probst

Ian Dunshee/BW

Kylie Krueger/Dragon

Ian Dunshee/BW

1 2 Ian Dunshee/BW

1 4 3 2 3 5 4

Sophomores Anna Chapman and Chelsea Dooley relax and wind down their evening at Van Dee’s ice cream.

Van Dee’s is open from 10 am to 9:30 pm Monday through Saturday and 11 am to 7 pm on Sunday serving all kinds of ice cream from shakes to ice cream cones.

Seniors Anne Dieseth and Jill Deskin transfer a lifesaver using two toothpicks in their mouths at Senior Challenge. Senior Challenge was composed of 18 teams of 12 students. The competition was held on May 2 in the high school gymnasium.

Senior Elizabeth Mills catches up with Horizon elementary school teacher Deb Strayer at the Milk and Cookies reunion for seniors. Milk and Cookies were served as students reminisced with their former teachers and looked at old pictures.

Sophomores Cheyenne Church and Lauren Stenger practice rescue techniques with j unior Connor Ward. Each student taking the life guarding course at Summit Middle School had to demonstrate their ability to save lives at the pool.

5

Senior Ryan Danielson directs as he and friends shoot the final scenes of a horror film for Digital Storytelling.

All students were assigned to create a short film eight to twenty minutes in length using actors as well as techniques learned in the class.

the b&w p.4

news

may 2012

Student involved in DHS call words & layout

Hannah Soyer

A student at the high school and a friend assisted in

making a phone call to the Department of Human Services that may have helped DHS take action against a father accused of sexually abusing three of his children.

The father, James Beaudrie, used to run a store in the

lower level of Merle Hay Mall called GameSip. He, his wife Kijua, and his nine children had been living in the store part

of the time since last October. Mall management was not aware of this.

According to the “Des Moines Register,” their mother

was arrested April 16 on three counts of neglect of minors.

The father was charged with eight counts of sexual abuse,

and fled the state two weeks prior to Kijua’s arrest. Officials found him in his mother’s Chicago apartment on April 19,

and Iowa officials are working to extradite him back to Polk

Hannah Soyer/BW

County.

Beaudrie’s store, Gamesip, was boarded up by mall authority immediately after the family had left. Beaudrie, his wife, and nine children were living in the store off and on since October.

oldest child, a 16-year-old, ran away twice since moving

things where you’re like ‘oh that’s weird,’” the student said.

her father had attempted to sexually assault her. According

but after a while you put two and two together, or there’s

Police reports show the family’s history of struggles.The

to Des Moines, and has several times told authorities that to Des Moines Police reports, the daughter also claimed

physical abuse. She was transported to the Youth Emergency Services shelter on Jan. 30. The other children were removed as well in April.

“At first, I just thought that they beat to their own drum,

ing, we knew it was time.”

some information given that abuse is occurring, whether

okay. After so many instances where we had this gut feelThe call to DHS was well thought out and something

dren had bug bites all over his arm. After being told the

the house if they’ll be split up?” the student said. “Because

inquiring further into the circumstances, the child said that

it was a horrible situation and that they were not allowed

DHS social work administrator Jason Geyer said that

they will take calls from anyone who suspects abuse, but

the student and the student’s friend talked over for awhile.

bites were from bedbugs, cockroaches, and lice, and after

kids taken away. After awhile, the kids got taken away.”

a point where you have to draw the line and say this isn’t

The student from the high school had talked to the Be-

audrie children several times and realized one of the chil-

to have their children, fate will happen, and they’ll get their

“It took a lot of thinking - is it worth it to get the kids out of I don’t think those kids have ever known any other kids.

They haven’t been to school a day in their lives.”

The high school student said that they operated on gut

in order to move on with the investigation, there must be physical, sexual, or mental, among other types. “We have to have a child, we have to have a caretaker, and we have

to have some sort of abuse as categorized under Iowa

law,” he said. The stipulations that classify behavior as child abuse under Iowa law can be found on the Department of Human Service’s website, dhs.iowa.gov.

The Beaudrie children are all now in the care of shelters

to talk about it.

feeling when choosing to make the call. “We kind of just

or foster parents, according to the “Des Moines Register.”

made them uncomfortable. “Over a time you observe little

they find something that shows the parents don’t deserve

their siblings.

The student and friend also noticed other things that

left it to fate, and put it in the hands of DHS. We thought if

None of them have been separated from at least one of

Year-round school is possibility In addition to eliminating extended breaks where stu-

three months of summer break between each of the class

dents may forget some material learned, research sup-

some community members realize. “The topic of year-

many students. “As a board, our number one priority is to

are some school districts in our area that offer it on a lim-

dents,” Dockum said. “There is research that shows ad-

years. But the idea of year-round schooling is closer than

ports the idea that year-round school can be beneficial for

round school has been around for awhile, and in fact there

increase the achievement levels for all of our Johnston stu-

ited basis,” school board member, Greg Dockum said.

ditional school days, with more frequent short breaks as

A year-round school runs for approximately 10 months,

and has a cumulative two months of break distributed

opposed to a long summer break, contribute to that goal.”

There are however, some flip sides to the idea that

among the year. The real question becomes why the sud-

could cause issues for some members of the community.

of year-round school would be to eliminate the extended

to hold summer jobs and families to take extended sum-

throughout the year,” Dockum said. “This would reduce

schedule change from a three month summer to only short

from school year to school year and provide more time to

for some students.

den trigger of ideas for this schedule. “The biggest positive

“Year-round school would hamper the ability for students

summer break and provide for more learning continuity

mer vacations,” Dockum said. Along with these issues, the

the need to spend time reviewing material already covered

breaks divided among the year may be a hard adjustment

words & layout

Taylor Joens

Katrina Fey‘12

have the traditional August to May scheduling, with around

learn new material and concepts.”

Amanda Judas ‘12

Most schools in the Iowa region, including Johnston,

“I think year long school would be good because I think it would decrease the amount of stress that builds up by 4th quarter.”

“I don’t think year long school would be very good because right now I’m in desperate need of a break, and summer is always a relief.”

news

the b&w p.5

may 2012

APUSH enrollment makes history A higher than expected number of students enrolled in AP US History for next school year. words & layout

Ashley Enger

More than twice as many students reg-

istered for AP US History next school year

than the previous year. During the November registration, 128 students indicated they wanted to take the course. This is 68

more than what originally took the course

this school year. The increase was unexpected because only 60 juniors signed up

this year, and 52 are still currently enrolled.

“I think students sell themselves to the

challenge. We have not changed the pro-

cess,” Associate Principal Jerry Stratton said.

Accommodating the doubled amount of

students will require schedule changes for

Ashley Enger/BW

Kinder’s US History class listens to him lecture during third hour. Next year, some of the US History classes will be converted into AP US History. Kinder will remain the only AP US teacher.

Another change that was implemented

the only AP US History teacher since 1992,

required all students to fill out a form. Be-

tory classes will be changed into additional

changes, this consent form ensures that

two periods of AP US History and four of

ing able to drop the class. This form reveals

Whether it is the rising interest in our na-

the rise in students enrolled for AP US next

students should expect the true workload

Essentially, students who drop next year

Jerry Kinder. Most likely, Kinder’s US His-

cause the increase in students will require

AP US classes. Currently, Kinder teaches

students know the potential risk of not be-

regular US History.

the concern that the administration has with

tion’s history or a stigma of it being easy,

year.

of an AP class. “I heard it is an easier

will have two options. First, they could take

Stenger said.

they must remain in the class with their cur-

class than AP World,” sophomore Lauren

newsbriefs & stuco updates

NB words & layout Zoe Wilson

a night school class four nights a week or

Green Dress Project comes to Johnston The third annual Green Dress Project was

rent grade.

When asked if there was any second

thoughts to take the class once the form was handed out, sophomore Abby Dockum expressed her feelings when she got the

form. “I did hesitate a little knowing I won’t

really have the option to drop, but since I never planned on dropping when I signed

up, I didn’t see any reason for it to change my decision,” Dockum said. Although Dockum knows that AP US History will become

a challenge, she feels that her knowledge

base of American history will aid her in the

Meredith Drive closed for summer Meredith Drive will be closed from 86th

class.

The prerequisite that is recommended in

the consent form was written in the hopes that these guidelines will help potential students. This includes things such as having an A or B in World Studies and in ILA.

Along with reading, roughly 30-45 min-

utes each night, students should expect

reading quizzes, writing essays, and unit

tests every two weeks. The tests consist of two to three chapters. Although it is different material from AP World History, it is not designed to be easier.

Class Day held at night For over ten years, Class Day was a day

held on Feb.11 and Feb.23. People donated

Street to NW Urbandale Drive for construction.

held to hand out scholarships and activity

project collected over 150 dresses, which

two-lane roadway to a four-lane roadway. This

is held at night. Administration decided that

Currently there are barricades skewed

night, making it easier for parents to come.

The project will widen Meredith Drive from a

participation. This year will be the first year it

includes more major intersections.

it would be easier to hold the celebration at

to help out families that cannot afford prom

throughout to continue to allow access of Mer-

Also, sophomores and juniors will not be out

liam Penn University from Joni Kelley of Os-

until around June 14. After that date, drivers

used prom dresses, shoes, and jewelry. The were then sold for $10 each.

The Green Dress Project was designed

edith Drive. The barriers will no longer be there

yet.

will have to use Plum Drive as a detour.

easier for some people to come to. And also

at William Penn University to go and pick out

with one lane traffic during the remainder of

out,” senior student council member Kensie

districts came to buy dresses, and took them

that the extension will completed by Novem-

ing, with the beginning of it at 7:00 at night in

dresses. The project was taken over by Wilkaloosa.

Families went to Musco Technology Center

their dresses. Girls from more than 11 school home to wear to at prom.

“Class day at night is great because it is

On Aug. 13, Meredith is expected to reopen

since our class is so big it helps to spread it

the project. Urbandale Engineering is planning

Noble. Rehearsals start at 8:30 in the morn-

ber 16, 2012.

the big gym on May 16.

the b&w p.6

news

may 2012

Sixth grade students protest recess rules words & layout

Zach Winjum & Laura Scieszinski

Sixth grade students at Summit pro-

students also participated in the protest-

them, but disappointed how it (students

of a rule that split certain privileges be-

upper hand, but it was still unfair’,” one

the lunchroom,” Hansen said.

tested during lunch and recess because

tween girls and boys. In response to some students’ actions including boo-

booing at the associates) happened in

ing. “The girls were saying ‘we have the

In response to the situation, Hansen

sixth grader said.

The means for communication about

had the volleyball net removed from the

plication on iPods and phones called Ins-

classes she asked that when problems

post messages or pictures for all to see.

concerns to administration. Students

protest. Some posts included messages

their recess privileges

wear each day and not to eat the school

April 24, teachers were somewhat un-

was a large group of students refusing to

themselves. Once they found out, some

day after the message was sent.

their hands. “It got serious when they

ing at lunch and recess officials, all sixth

the protest came about through an ap-

playground. Also when she met with the

riod were not allowed to participate in re-

tagram. The application allows anyone to

occurred, that the students bring their

Students began protesting because

Students began posting how they would

that were disrespectfully protesting lost

troduced at recess, the supervisors that

telling students what color of clothing to

between the boys and girls. “The boys

lunch. According to a sixth grader, there

aware of why students were writing on

eat the lunch provided by the school the

teachers told students to wash it off of

Along with chanting, bringing their

would constantly check your hands,”

grade boys during a specific recess pecess for a day.

soon after a new volleyball net was inmonitored the students split the time were controlling the volleyball net and

monopolizing the ball,” recess supervisor Dina Siedenburg said, “We don’t

have a problem with 50/50, however, we have a problem with the boys’ bad

own lunch to school, and writing 50/50

Male and female students respond-

side past the designated time for recess.

sportsmanship.”

ed by writing 50/50 on their hands and arms. They also formed large groups in

which they sang Kumbaya and chanted 50/50 as a way to symbolize equal

rights. Although male students believed they were being treated unfairly, female

When the protests began on Tuesday

a sixth grader said. Some teachers did

on their arms, some students waited out-

Photo-illustration of hands in protest

“When they (the recess associates)

building during the first day of protests.

written on them. “It was almost like they

of recess), they (the students) would run

cussed it with the classrooms that were

thing,” one sixth grade student said.

proud of the children in that they found

and the volleyball net remains absent

would blow the whistle (to signify the end

to the other side of the field and plank,” one sixth grader said.

Principal Linda Hansen was not in the

not allow students to participate in classroom activities if the protest slogan was

Once she was notified however, she dis-

(the teachers) treated the marks as a bad

believed to have been involved. “I was

As of now, the protesting has ended

their voice in something important to

during recess at Summit.

Students get a voice in school board A non-voting student member

Student qualifications to join the board

will be admitted to the school board beginning next school

year. The position is only open to current juniors wishing to represent the student body. The

school board voted in favor of

this policy on Monday May 7

with a 4-2 vote. The student representative will be chosen by the

principal, two students, and two faculty members. “While I do not

speak for the board of directors, I do believe that they listen to student input and find this input

very valuable when they make decisions.” Principal Brent Riessen said. “Having someone at

the table would be very appreciated by the board of directors”

words & layout Zach Peterson

1 2 3 4

Student must be a senior (the year they serve) Must be able to attend meetings Must have 3.00 GPA or higher Must submit current resume outlining involvement of activities

5 6 7

Submit a 500 word essay explaining why they would like to join the board Submit two letters of recommendation from Johnston faculty members Get 50 signatures from students that support you

health

POPPED! words & layout

may 2012

Pimples and knuckles and blisters, oh my!

Monica Gagne and Sarah Margolin

knuckles

Pimples Myth:

Popping your pimples is the best way to get rid of them but it causes infection and more zits

Myth:

knuckles in your fingers is harmless,” Chiropractic specialist Juliet O’Donell said.

dermatologist Stefanie Gatica. Pimples are filled

It’s only releasing the air from between

with a bacteria that when popped releases it onto

your joints and does not create arthritis.

the skin. However, if you must pop, then always

As for swelling, that should not occur un-

follow with a layer of toner or alcohol to clean

less you over extended or rubbed a

the pimple just like a cut.

muscle the wrong way.

Back

Myth:

Blisters

If your friends crack your back

they could end up breaking it.

True: “Popping your friend’s back is not okay because you could end up breaking your friend’s ribs in the process.” Chiropractic specialist Juliet O’Donell said. “However, when you crack your back by stretching, the noise you hear is just your joints that have

Popping your knuckles can cause them to swell or create arthritis.

“Popping small joints like toes or False:

“Pimples should never be popped,” says False:

the b&w p.7

become stiff relieving tension.”

Resist The Pop!

Myth:

Sometimes it’s good to pop your

blisters to eliminate the fluid that causes the irritation.

“Blisters are bubbles on the skin False:

that cover a new layer of skin that the area is

creating,” says dermatologist Stefanie Gatica.

By popping you’re not allowing the skin to fully heal and could cause scarring.

Alternatives to release the popping urges:

Pimples

Doctors can inject Cortisone if you have a special day coming up. The cost starts at about $100. The doctor will inject the pimple with Cortisone which will help reduce the inflammation making it less noticeable. However, cheaper alternatives exist. Dermatologists can prescribe medical treatment creams and washes. Ice reduces sizes and redness.

Cover-up costs $3 at Walgreens. Be careful of over washing your face, though, because that could dry out and irritate the skin.

Blisters

Tight shoes or shoes with no socks create most blisters. Buy socks made for running, specifically for blister prevention.

Socks with no tops help prevent blisters for girls who wear dressy flats. If a blister develops, stores sell special bandaids with ointment in the gauze specifically for blisters.

Back

Relieve tension using a foam roller on your back. The school nurse and the fitness center both have them open for use.

Buy one online or in sports stores for around $20.

may 2012

the b&w p.8&9

2000 2001 2002

Kindergarten to Senior Year

The must have toy: Furbies

Furbies were created in 1998 and soon became the “must-have” toy. Originally

endeared for their cuddly-ness and intelligence, they soon became known for

their constantly creepy talking. Although

What has changed over the past 12 years?

The rise of Smart Phones

Goodbye VHS; hello DVD

Furbies production ended in 2003, it later resumed from 2005-2007. On April 12, it

was announced Furbies will have a new line released in the fall of 2012.

Y2K

Jan. 1, 2000- The end of the world! People believed that a mass technology fail-

Made in 1971, VHS tapes, which were

Flip phones? Long gone are the

way to watch movies at home. Although

being introduced in 2002 with the

to watch their videos in an updated digital

being introduced in 2007 made flip

actual film in a cassette, were the only

days of those, with smart phones

invented in 1997, people were reluctant

Blackberry, and the iconic iPhone

way with DVD disks until about 2001.

phones a thing of the past.

An act of terrorism Throughout

the

course

of

history,

some events have the power to unite

a country in a single day. For Americans, that day was Sept. 11, 2001.

ure, brought on by the computers’ clocks

resetting to zero, would bring about an apocalyptic doomsday scenario by way of

accidental nuclear missile launch. Luck-

With two hijacked planes hitting

the

Trade Cen-

World

ter.

a dozen years

2003 2004 Video game revolution

In the first years of the 2000’s, the “Big

Founding Facebook

Three” video game companies (Sony,

Facebook is released. This comes after

seventh generation of consoles, including

ter Twitter is created in 2006, furthuring our

Microsoft, Nintendo) each released their

AIM, which was created in 1997. Soon af-

the Xbox, Playstation 2, and GameCube.

Internet addictions.

By 2003, they were showing their age.

War in Iraq

“Bye bye bye” boy bands April 2002- N’SYNC, which many people

considered the embodiment of the “boy

band” craze, finally goes on a hiatus. Boy bands are now coming back, with bands like The Wanted and One Direction taking over the charts.

American forces stage an invasion of Iraq,

with political and military officials stating that Saddam Hussein, the late dictator of Iraq, was harboring Al Qaeda, as well as weapons of mass destruction.

Gauchos

Popular to wear for dressy events or just hanging out, they were the looser, uglier

version of yoga pants. Thankfully, the fad faded after a few years.

ily for humanity, no such catastrophe occurred.

2005 2006

2007

Payphones have pretty much

Aug. 29, 2005- Hurricane Katrina makes

become obsolete, with about

landfall near New Orleans. In the wake

half of them no longer in use

of the storm, thousands were left to fend

during 2000-2006 alone.

for themselves in the suburbs for days, in

cesible right from a smart phone.

Just five months later they had

ries students grew up with. Fantasy series

have still continued, with Twlight and the

day.” Again, thankfully, no such event oc-

Hunger Games now taking over.

curred.

over 10,000 availible applications.

Tuesday tornado outbreak Feb. 5-6, on “Super Tuesday” in which 24

states hold their primary elections and caucuses, 87 tornados occured in 15 hours.

2009 2010 Miracle on the Husdon

Jan. 15, a jetliner hsd to make an emer-

Chilean miners

gency landing in the Hudson River is New

Navy Seals Team 6 leads a raid on a com-

155 passengers were safe thanks to Pilot

bin Laden. The raid ends with bin Laden’s

York after flying into a flock of birds. All

pound that served as a hideout for Osama

Chesley “Sully” Sullenberg.

death. Approval ratings for Obama experi-

Obama innagurated January 20, 2009- Barack

Hussein Obama is inaugurat-

ed as President, after a victory

over Republican John McCain.

They were mainly in the South, being lo-

2011 Osama taken out

Navy Seals Team 6 leads a raid on a compound that served as a hideout for Osama bin Laden. The raid ends with bin Laden’s death. Approval ratings for Obama experience a sharp climb.

ence a sharp climb.

It’s Friday

Bp oil spill

March 14, 2011- Rebecca Black

During the summer of 2010, an oil gusher

releases “Friday,” which goes

leaked as a result of Deepwater Horizon.

on to become the most disliked

The gusher was capped July 15, after

video in Youtube history, as

53,000 gallons had spilled.

well as the butt of countless jokes.

cated in large cities like Memphis. It was

the deadliet tornado outbreak since 1997, killing 57 people.

Now

13.5 $2.19

cost of big mac (McDonald’s)

$4.00 $1.44 (roughly)

8.6% 5.7

national debt

trillion

7

4%

unemployment rate(U.S.)

trillion

world human population

Numbers show the differences from 2000 to 2012

billion

billion

among other factors.

The series started in 1997, becoming a se-

6, 2006, the world would end in a “devil

6.1

App Store” which soon lead to just

last book in a series of seven, is released.

Some religious cultists believed on June

Then and

to a downturn in the housing economy,

about everything becoming ac-

starts. Economists attribute the recession

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, the

End of the world?

tions.

December 2007- The American recession

In July 2008 Apple launched their “Apple

The end of an era

what became one of the great debacles

of FEMA and state assistance organiza-

There’s an app for that

The recession

Payphones plummet

Hurricane Katrina hits

2008

cost of a gallon of gas*

$3.43 *adjusted for inflation

12

20

the b&w p.10

editorial

may 2012

Leadership: Too much emphasis, not enough real skills There are a million things that high school students

your rock solid trust fall? Again, that’s great but everyone

sports passions, to making music and art, socializing, mak-

conferences but a lack of the drive of students to develop

want to achieve. Everything from good grades, to following ing connections and getting into college. One thing that everyone seems to be pushing for though, is being a leader.

Leadership is a great quality, however; it is not a quality

else can do it too. This is not because of poor leadership their own skills. If you want to be a leader, develop the skills. You will emerge above others naturally.

If you want to be a leader because you think it will get

that is easy to come by or necessary to have. It is so simple

you a scholarship or into college or putting your SAIL at-

but none of those things make you a leader.

You are saying you have skills that you never took the time

to say you went to SAIL and you are in NCYL and STUCO, As a community, we place too much importance on

leadership. Think of all the things our school does just to acknowledge leaders, but what have they accomplished?

Better yet, when was the last time one of these “leaders”

stopped in the lunchroom and stepped in front of a student

tendance on a job application, it is like false advertising.

to develop. Someone is going to hire you based on the pre-

tenses that you will be a good leader and be sorely disap-

pointed when all they find out is those were all just “things you went to” and learned nothing.

There are leaders out there, but not everyone can be

being bullied? Being a leader means standing up when no

a leader on every level. Then you have all leaders and no

nated because of what he stood up for as a leader. We look

follower, provided you are following a good leader. Look

one else will. Look at Martin Luther King Jr. He got assassi-

at him as one of the most influential leaders in history, but, at that time, there were some people who did not like him.

Most “leaders” like to talk about all of the leadership things they have done, but ask them when they were a leader

outside of an event specifically designed to improve leadership skills and see if they have actually done anything.

No one is going to care in 10 years about all the groups

you were in; they will care about if you actually have the

one to follow them. There is nothing wrong with being a

at what groups with one strong leader and many followers have accomplished: civil rights, Ghandi, and even Bill

Gates. Having a leader is just as important as having followers. Followers give leaders their power and help leaders

accomplish huge goals. If you aren’t a leader, don’t worry

about missing something or not being on top. Followers have a huge impact, too.

Overall, if you are going to claim that you are a leader,

skills of a leader. Can you attend the NCYL conference and

actually become one, if not, be a follower, either way is fine,

too. Can you go to SAIL and come back and demonstrate

leader is a great skill, but it is a skill, not an attribute.

sit and watch presentations? Yes, good, everyone else can

but do not say you are something if you are not. Being a

The editorial board votes on the opinion behind the editorial. This month’s vote was 5-1

opinion

may 2012

Right thing; wrong reason words & layout

RJ McGrew bring him back. “I just liked

year began, many new se-

going and it was for a good

niors rejoiced in the removal

cause.” Koonce said.

of the Service Learning Proj-

It has been proven time

ect from the Government cur-

and time again by psycholo-

amounts of hours free from

motivation for certain tasks

riculum. This meant copious

gists that providing exterior

the schedules of those who

that one finds fulfilling will

were dreading its impending

ultimately diminish intrinsic

arrival. Nowadays we have

motivation. In other words, if

the JHS Silver Cord program

you are doing this for creden-

in all its grandeur.

Paige Plaskitt/Dragon

rate binders filled with tedious

2011 senior Alex Hjelmaas receives a medal for academics. Silver cord will also be an award to recieve at class day.

“things we learned”.

sparkling silver cord at com-

a positive difference in my

little key chain to remind your-

some time to rethink things.

you are?

be then? If you’re like Senior

of the SLP.

great, inspiring students who

involved because someone

being that sophomores, ju-

time making the world a better

asked in the Summer of

are some potential problems,

teer at the Urbandale Food

question: Why are you doing

favor turned into an experi-

idea but without the elabosummaries, responses and Although there is still a

small amount of paperwork required, it is quite obvious that there is much less man-

datory “busy work” than that Another notable difference

niors, and seniors alike could

participate. People were in-

stantly sold on the idea. What could look better on a resume

than a big fat scoop of vol-

kcaB 2Besic words & layout

Mirza Besic

Make this time count As the year winds to a close, and I start

When the 11/12 school

In essence it’s the same

the b&w p.11

unteer hours topped with a

anything besides “to make

mencement and an adorable

community” you should take

self what a wonderful person

What should your answer

The idea on paper sounds

Tyler Koonce, you would be

are willing to spend their free

needed help. Koonce was

place. But empirically there

2011 by a neighbor to volun-

and they all start with this

Pantry. What began as a

silver cord? If your answer is

ence that has continued to

tials alone, eventually you won’t find any joy in helping

others, at which point you’ve lost what’s truly important.

Am I saying don’t par-

ticipate? Not at all. Do silver cord and have your brothers and sisters do silver cord. In fact have your entire fam-

ily do silver cord. But what’s crucial is to make sure you are doing it for the feeling that you get when you re-

alize that you’ve changed something for the better. I

guarantee you’ll feel much more satisfied at that point

than when you unwrap your key chain.

to feel the end-of-the-year angst, I have been looking back on my years in high

school. Now that I near the finish line, I see

all the missed opportunities that I should

have taken. It may be too late for me, but I can still pass down some knowledge to the underclassmen.

First off, doing more clubs at a younger

age. I did a lot of the clubs I wished I did this year, like Knowledge Bowl and Academic

Decathalon, but I really should have started them sooner. There are a few clubs, such as debate, that I really wished I would have

given a try, but never did for one reason

or another. I realize now that I should

have just done them, and that would have been that. I would be a more well-rounded

person, not to mention the potential friends I missed out on.

Not only that, but take risks too. Run

for an office. Just because you might lose

doesn’t mean don’t try. I never tried to be president of anything, though I probably

could have done a halfway decent job.

Even in TSA, a club I’ve done since eighth

grade, I only this year bothered to try to be an officer. If I had a second chance, boy would I have done more.

Do stuff outside of the school, too.

You never know what might interest you.

I started rock climbing this year, and I’m already a world champion. Not really, but you get my drift. I love it, it’s great

fun and exercise, and all of the people I meet through it are fantastic. Maybe rock climbing isn’t for you. Try something else

you might not know anything about. Do any of you people reading this know what

LARPing is? I doubt it. It just might be the

most fun thing I’ve ever done, despite being

incredibly dorky. Google it, or ask me about it, then get some friends and try it yourself.

That’s not to say I have that many

regrets. I had a great ride, and made some

decent risks. Joining newspaper was one of the best things I ever did. But I could have

In Plain Sight Illustration Lisa Vanwiel

done so much more, and so can everyone

else. So try something new. At the worst,

These videos are so cool! I wish I could do what they do!

you quit it after a few sessions. At the best,

But instead of actually learning a skill, I just sit around and watch other people do it.

you discover a new lifetime passion that

redefines who you are. So, what have you got to lose?

the b&w p.12

opinion

may 2012

two cents

Let’s be honest, we all get a little

bored with Johnston at some

point. Most of the time we get in

the habit of doing the same thing

every weekend.Try something new,

because sometimes the nights you

t

B&W seniors give parting opinions before saying goodbye Here is the last time to pick on my personal pet peeve.

change it up can be the most fun.

Taylor Mithelman

Guess what, kids. It’s not cool to drive 40 mph in the parking lot or

GIRLS: just because it’s getting warmer, your shorts shouldn’t

to “drift” with your dad’s pickup in the winter. It’s not cool that you can

that. GUYS: contrary to popular belief, deodorant is necessary at

didn’t study” last night because neither did we. This one’s going to be

get shorter. If I can see your behind, you look terrible. Just know school. On a warm day the hallways smell worse than a December locker room. That’s a problem.

Kristine Hayes

swear louder than I can in the hallways. It’s not cool that you “totally

shocking guys, but it’s not cool to take mirror pics of your abs. It’s not cool to be a philosopher in your blog but not say a word in Government.

Sophomore girls: it’s not cool

It really shouldn’t need to

When we’re 30 and your rhinoceros

back to the days where people

face, those of us with pale skin will

your chair in when you stand

you. So, good luck with that!

ple. Throwing your garbage

were actually polite. Pushing

skin is hanging in wrinkles off your

up. Holding the door for peo-

be exponentially more attractive than

Lisa VanWiel

The U.S. budget deficit is growing every year. I can

handle the idea of the deficit growing as long as we keep

social security, medicare, and Medicaid with minimal cutbacks. The thing I can’t stand is the idea that it is wrong to

tax the top 1% more to pay for it. My upper-middle-class family lives very well with our amount of income. I don’t see why the top 1% can’t pay higher taxes and still live

well above the social average. I’m talking to you Willard Mitt Romney. ;)

Charles Fiedler Zach Winjum

away, making sure to get it into the trash can. Little things can make someone’s day, and it

really only takes an extra five seconds of your life. Honestly, seeing people completely disregard polite behavior makes me furious.

It is not too much to

ask, but you wouldn’t

know it from looking at our students.

Mirza Besic

Everyone seems to be for the “green movement” and if you aren’t, then you are

evil and want to kill trees and poison the water supply. This simply is not true. We invest so much into going green, yet we aren’t completely sure what we are helping if

anything. Don’t worry, there are plenty of trees. And unlike oil, they are renewable.

Another problem with the green movement is the idea that humans directly cause

climate change. Here we are six years after Al Gore’s film warning us of how much

harm we are causing to the planet. Florida hasn’t gone underwater, the Antarctic ice-caps are actually increasing in size, and even Mars has climate change.

Some simple things can get you a

long way in life. Never forget the words,

“please” and “thank you”. Don’t be afraid to write a thank-you card. When in doubt, write one out. Stay humble

and as my former military mentor Ma-

jor Archie Bates told me, “Seek impact, not impression.” Let your actions speak for you instead of yourself.

Scott Syroka

that people are

be said, but here I go. Let’s get

To all you fake bakers out there: Keep it up!

YOLO.

suffocating

be-

hind you in the wake of your

Evan Culbert

perfume.

Ryan McGrew

Aretha Franklin sang about it in the ‘70’s, and I’m writ-

ing about it now. Respect. Whatever happened to

it? I hear so many kids say they hate their parents,

for what? Giving you a house to live in, with free food,

laundry service and general comfort? That sounds like

staying at a hotel to me, not some “place I can’t wait to

leave.” If a teacher asks you a question, answer them

with respect. They’re just trying to do their job and, you

know, help you be successful; they don’t need some

sarcastic answer when really they should probably talk down to you. Oh, and doors. If there is someone behind

you, hold it open for them. Easy.

Lauren Coffey

Do yourself a favor and stop caring what people

think about you. I’m not just tired of hearing about it, but it’s also for your own good. Find five really great friends that like you for you, stick with them, and never look back. You’ll find that your experience

through this terrible thing we call high school will be

a lot less stressful. “Life has become immeasurably

better since I have been forced to stop taking it seriously.” – Hunter S. Thompson.

Ian Dunshee

Don’t underestimate the power of phys-

ical contact. Even phone calls are a step in the right direction from texting. And, the rose colored glasses that are put on through

texting are just a veil cover-

ing who the person is behind that

keyboard. Text all you want, it’s

convenient. Just don’t forget that

physically being with someone is a basic need.

Ashley Enger

Ben Parsons Success and happiness. It drives me absolutely insane that these

two words have become synonymous. Since when is being successful integral to being satisfied with your life? We’re always “pushing the

boundaries,” trying to be better than our “rivals.” What happened to sim-

ply enjoying things for their intrinsic joy? The crime in our schools today is that they’re cultivating a generation of cynics who won’t know what to do once their lives aren’t completely achievement-oriented.

layout: Evan Culbert

feature

may 2012

the b&w p.13

Stoker, VW leaving district Michelle Stoker and Sarah Van Waard-

words & layout Anne Rogers

said.

huizen are leaving the district next year.

Since Central was creating a new posi-

Both have decided to take this opportunity

tion for her, the applying process was dif-

co-workers, and families.

job here, and then she had to write a let-

after thinking about it with administration,

ferent. She had to resign from her teaching

Stoker, a special education teacher, is

ter to the school board. “The letter detailed

moving to the Newton School District and

why I was leaving, and from there they told

she will be teaching at Woodrow Wilson

me I was authorized to resign,” Van Waard-

Elementary school. She will still be teach-

huizen said. Then she made the announce-

ing special education. “It was a bittersweet

ment to her co-workers and students.

decision, and very hard to make,” Stoker

“Everyone was extremely surprised

said. “I knew at one point I would have to

when I made the announcement, just be-

my family and myself.”

Waardhuizen said. Her students had mixed

teach there to make things convenient for

cause this was not planned at all,” Van

A few weeks after Stoker applied for the

emotions because they were happy she

job on March 23, she got a call that Newton

got the opportunity, but sad she was leav-

administration wanted to have an interview

ing them. “I’m happy for her because she’s

with her. After the April 10 interview, Stoker received news that she had gotten the job.

excited for her new opportunities, but she’ll

She told Mr. Riessen, Mr. Klein, Mr. Strat-

Head vocal teacher Sarah Van Waardhuizen directs Chamber Choir during third period. Van Waardhuizen is moving to Pella, Iowa to teach music at Central College after this year.

definitely be missed.” junior Joscey Miner

Director) about the opportunity she was

ing them,” Stoker said. “They are some of

nitely excited to not have to drive all those

she was a great director, a hard worker,

losing me, but they all understood why I

the students, the school, and the commu-

Van Waardhuizen, the head music di-

ton, and Vickie McCool (Special Education

given. “They were disappointed they were was taking this job,” Stoker said.

Telling her co-workers and her students

was another hardship Stoker had to overcome. “I have a very close friendship with

all my co-workers, and I’ll be sad to be leav-

my best friends I have here.” She will miss

miles everyday.”

said. Freshman Ellie Marckmann was ex-

cited to work with her next year. “I’ve heard and very motivated,” Markmann said.

Both teachers are in a whirlwind of ex-

nity in general when she leaves. However,

rector, is switching to Central College in

citement ever since they have received

await her. “I can’t wait to meet new people

sor of music. “I feel like doors have been

August I would be doing this, I would have

she is excited for the new changes that and have new experiences in the school and classroom,” Stoker said. “And I’m defi-

Pella. She will be teaching as a profesopened for my family and I, so I decided to take the opportunity,” Van Waardhuizen

their new positions. “If you had told me last never believed you,” Van Waardhuizen said.

CONFESSION: I’ve been watching you Good samaritans, the time for you to be recognized has finally come

I have a confession to make. Over the past school year

I have been spying. No, not the creepy kind of spying,

board president has referred to as, “the best finance director in the state.” Her car can often be found among the final few in the Administrative Resource Center parking lot.

It is meant to celebrate those like sophomores Paige

but rather I have been watching for the good things being

Elming, Emily Hanson, and Ellie Wallace, who helped me

on in the world that it would serve us well to take a step

a trail of them throughout the English hallway.

done. Too often we hear about the gloom and doom going back and recognize some of what is right.

pick up dozens of flash cards when I unknowingly dropped

62nd Avenue from Green Meadows West in those hec-

to Johnston but just happened to be having breakfast there

N.W. 62nd Avenue in front of the middle school and got out

tic mornings. Thank you for letting me catch you commit

ting a good deed? Guilty as charged.

It is meant to celebrate those like senior Brandi Wilkins.

Last fall on a Friday after school I was walking behind her

in the tennis courts and she threw away a spilled coffee cup

these deeds, whether you were the driver of the Lexus with

license plate number 665XAN, the driver of the Chrysler with license plate number 317YMD, or even the bus driver of Bus #36.

her phone and how upset she would be if she lost it. I didn’t want anyone else to lose their phone if I could help it.”

The aforementioned examples are just a smidgen of all

growth, however. I truly believe every day can be a good

school on Dec. 5. I know that’s something everyone could

finance director Jan Miller-Hook, whom a previous school

Burke said, “I know how attached my own daughter is to

I caught saying thank you to one of the dishwashers at

someone else’s trash on the ground?

hours to make this school district what it is, such as district

that morning. When asked what motivated her to return it,

the good things that have gone on throughout our district

to be a little better, such as sophomore Ally Shoeman, who

It is meant to celebrate all the staff that spends the extra

Altoona and does consulting for a living, has no connection

It is meant to celebrate those that can inspire all of us

someone had left on the courts. Sounds simple, right? How many times have you stopped walking recently to pick up

}

ra and quickly located her to return it. Burke, who lives in

of people already do, such as letting people out onto N.W.

to help a blind man walk down the street. Caught commit-

“ ”

I know how attached my own daughter is to her phone and how upset she would be if she lost it. I didn’t want anyone else to lose their phone if I could help it. — Janice Burke

It is meant to celebrate even the little things that a lot

This article is meant to celebrate the police officer I saw

on Nov. 15 who stopped his patrol car eastbound along

{

words & layout Scott Syroka

easily start doing.

It is meant to celebrate perfect strangers, such as Jan-

ice Burke, who found senior Abby Dusen’s iPhone at Pane-

in the past year. That doesn’t mean there’s no room for day as long as you are spending part of it making someone else happy. So, thank you. Thank you to all of you who have made me happy because of the actions I was fortunate enough to catch you doing.

the b&w p.14

may 2012

feature

ACT cracks down on student words & layout Wes Monroe For the many students who have taken the ACT, they

have found that the rules and regulations are not taken

lightly. To take part in testing there is specific steps that need to be followed. These rules are not there to annoy but to help regulate so that ACT knows they are getting correct and deserving scores.

The ACT’s goal is to help individuals achieve a higher

level of education and workplace success. They attempt to provide a fair test for everyone. “It’s a multiple layer ap-

proach to ensure the results we receive are from students independently,” ACT spokesman Ed Colby said.

The dilemma of cheating is perceived differently among

different people but the ACT has a set policy and protocol to follow. “We define cheating as any student who doesn’t

do their independent work,” Colby said. “This could be copying, the use of cell phones, illegal calculators, or even someone else taking the test for you.”

There is a wide variety of methods in place to make sure

that cheating doesn’t occur but the system is by no means foolproof. “It’s something we know happens and we are al-

ways looking for ways to improve test security,” Colby said.

Recently junior AJ Keech was removed from testing for

what he thought were overly strict rules. “I just finished a

test and after she said pencils down I filled in three more

bubbles and got kicked out,” Keech said. “They wouldn’t let

me erase them either. Had they let me erase those three

nothing would have happened. Life would of moved on and I wouldn’t have wasted money.”

The ACT’s policy states that when time is called on a

test the supervisor is instructed to record the number of bubbles that haven’t been filled out for each student.

The ACT works hard to take cheating out of the equa-

tion. “We are constantly looking for new technologies and new ways to improve test security,” Colby said.

The ACT’s methods have changed over the years and

continue to improve. The use of new technologies and resources provide numerous opportunities to make advances in test security. It’s an ongoing process but the ACT strives to improve every year.

Oz cast sends letters to elementary students words & layout

Charles Fiedler

Ever since last year, the casts of the school

musicals has taken part in a pen-pal program with elementary school students.

get a letter back,” Shepard said. “That way they can work on reading and writing literature.”

Junior Jacob Gehrke acted as Nikko, the fly-

Johnston fourth graders have a literary unit

ing monkey commander. He also played other

high school performed “The Music Man” at the

pop Guild. “If we receive one-hundred letters,

dealing with musical theater. Last year, when the same time the fourth graders were reading the book, concert choir director Eric Shepard had the idea to merge the unit with the musical.

With the help of The Farm Bureau Grant, the

small parts including a munchkin in the Lollywe write one-hundred back,” Gehrke said. “The

letters we write back are individualized, not generic.”

Sophomore Kyler Coburn, who played the

book versions of “The Wizard of Oz” were pur-

cowardly lion, received nearly 40 letters. “They

get kids involved more in reading,” said Shepard.

“Like, does your costume weigh one-hundred

chased for the fourth graders. “We are trying to “And we thought that if they came to watch ‘The

Wizard of Oz’, then they would like reading the book more.”

ask like the dumbest questions,” Coburn said. pounds, or are you part of the Lion King?”

The cast had a lot to do the week before the

show. Actors and crew would be at school later

Paige Plaskitt/BW

ters have been sent to the cast. “With the kids

(from left to right) Laura Smalley, Jacob Janni, Allie Markman, and Andrew Janni perform in “The Wizard of Oz”. Smalley Gehrke said. “We made jokes, screwed around, played Glinda the Good, while Markman and the Janni brothers played munchkins. and acted crazy. We had to paint houses, build

write to their favorite characters and be able to

night.”

The fourth graders were then asked to write

letters to their favorite characters. Nearly 525 lethaving watched the show, we wanted them to

than eleven some nights. “It was hectic, but fun,”

platforms, and fix fountains right up until opening

sports

may 2012

cheer coach Cheer coach trades in pom-poms to become assistant hurdles coach words & layout

and cheer shoes to spikes,

Melanie Dana has experienced quite the transition.

Once the head cheer coach, Dana is now the boys’ track assistant hurdles coach.

Time becomes issue During the winter of 2010-

2011, Dana was the head coach of the basketball and wrestling cheer squads. Time was a constant issue for Dana,

and there never seemed to be enough of it.

“We only had time to prac-

tice one time a week,” Dana

said. “We had either meets

more flexible schedule.

Passion is priority

hits the track

Kenzie Foldes

From pompoms to batons

coaching while maintaining a

or games every other night of the week.” The cheer squad met Wednesday mornings to

practice routines and go over stunts, but besides that the girls practiced on their own time.

Cheerleading had always

been a passion for Dana (who

has done cheerleading from

sixth grade through college)

but time commitment was becoming an issue. “Although

I really enjoyed (coaching cheerleading), I wasn’t able

to achieve the work balance I wanted,” Dana said.

When the opportunity for an

assistant track coach arose,

the b&w p.15 to have patience and remem-

ber that although coaches and

athletes don’t always see eye

to eye, doing her part as a

Dana has experienced both

coach will help athletes reach

girls’ as well as high school

is a reminder to help students

ent complications as well as

ger picture that they are work-

“(When you coach girls)

realizing that they may not be

worlds of coaching high school

their full potential. “Coaching

boys’ sports. Both pose differ-

understand that there is a big-

similarities.

ing towards at the same time

you have to come at it from a

able to see it very clearly right

completely different way. Girls

now.”

tied in with their activity rather

end, Dana reflects on the sea-

attention to girl’s sensitivity is

coaching boys’ track, but also

Dana showed interest. Mi-

to deal with. “Boys are a little

“I considered fall cheer-

has been a coach for boys’

when you are giving them a

up,” Dana said. “But in the

ready involved with the track

help them. Not all girls realize

to do and that wasn’t in the

when we saw a need with (Mi-

Although cheerleading and

Regardless of what sport,

have a little bit more emotion

With track coming to an

than boys.” Dana said. Paying

son as successful. She enjoys

something Dana has learned

misses cheerleading.

chael Dana, Dana’s husband,

bit easier because they know

leading when position came

track for five years. “I was al-

hard time, you are trying to

long run I knew what I needed

team anyway,” Dana said, “so

that’s what you are doing.”

cards for me.”

chael Dana) coaching jump-

track require different areas

Dana always tries to incorpo-

incoming freshman class, we

sports reminds Dana to look

the athletes she coaches: to

lot of technique work that was

athletes see it. “When I was in

Dana took the position of

hard to see the bigger picture,”

track season of 2012. With her

adult I feel like I have a bet-

dles in high school and college

challenges.”

ers and hurdlers and with the

of expertise, coaching the two

rate the same message to all

knew there was going to be a

at things the way high school

stay focused and to have fun.

going to be done,” Dana said.

high school it was sometimes

their sport it will lead to resent-

assistant hurdles coach for the

Dana said. “Now that I am an

cess,” Dana said.

prior knowledge of doing hur-

ter perspective on life and its

love and love what you do.

track, Dana is able to continue

Doing so has taught Dana

“If an athlete does not enjoy

ment and will hinder their suc-

Her belief is do what you

Without that, success will be a lot harder to reach.

The Kleve legacy runs on words & layout

Mallorie Goodale

“Being able to run at the Drake Relays is an accomplish-

Crossing the finish line at state cross country, placing

ment in itself,” M. Kleve said. “It’s the best of the best run-

freshman Jordyn Kleve finished right behind her sister, se-

in your life that you can always look back on and know that

first and second for Johnston and 31 and 32 in the meet, nior Maddie Kleve. Both finished with a time of 14:51.

This track season, both sisters are on the same 4x800

ning out there on that legendary Blue Oval. It’s something you were a part of it all.”

While being on the same team as your sister could have

relay team, which qualified for the Drake Relays.“We actu-

its negatives, it also has positives.“It’s helpful because she

like I am passing on the torch to my little sister so she can

look up to, she is so motivated.”

ally get to hand off to each other,” M. Kleve said. “So it’s keep the Kleve legacy.”

pushes me,” J. Kleve said. “She is a good role model to

“It’s fun being able to run with each other,” M. Kleve

The girls worked towards making the Drake Relays and

said. “I just like cheering her on and being able to encour-

Relays. “It was a really nice experience to run with other

Next year, Maddie plans to run track at Wartburg col-

J. Kleve was the only freshman from Johnston to run at the people in the state,” J. Kleve said. “Even though I didn’t

get a PR (personal record) it was still very exciting. It was a good opportunity.”

Provided/Todd Mithelman

lege in Waverly, Iowa.“I’m going to miss the little rascal,” M.

Maddie Kleve hands off to her sister Jordyn Kleve in the 4x800 at the Drake Relays on April 28. The relay team placed twelfth overall with at time of 9:38.23.

liners. I’m going to miss that.”

said. “That won’t stop next year.”

age her and be positive.”

Kleve said. “Her sarcasm and her funny sayings and one

“I’m going to miss her pushing me at practices,” J. Kleve

the b&w p.16

backpage

may 2012

Not Your average joe

JHS students

reveal unique skills

Kenzie DeBolt Taking pictures with film involves a lot of

practice to master and takes more time to develop than today’s modern digital camera.

Junior Kenzie DeBolt took the class Photo

1 with art teacher Daniel Weiss, where she

learned how to take pictures with a 35-millimeter camera and then develop the pictures herself. “I was fascinated with film more than

anything in that class,” DeBolt said. Now it is her hobby.

At first she would borrow the camera from

Weiss, but eventually DeBolt came into pos-

session of her very own. “My friend dropped

Millie Varley Sophomore Millie Varley, at the age of six,

started sewing by learning from her mother on

a sewing machine. In seventh grade she tried sewing her own clothes. “It was denim pants, but it wasn’t very good,” Varley said.

Inspiration comes from a variety of places

like fashion magazines or the TV show “Mad Men.” “I see cool stuff and then I try to make it my own,” she said. Designer Marchesa inspired her homecoming dress.

Varley said making a clothing piece can take

a week to a month depending on how busy she is. Varley says that swimsuits and pants are the

most difficult garments to sew while t-shirts and dresses are the easiest.

Although sewing is a favorite past time for

Varley, she does not want to pursue a major ca-

reer at it but hopes to keep sewing on the side.

Varley said, “The reason I make clothes is because I can’t buy all the clothes I want.”

With the stresses of being in high school

Photo 1 and let me borrow a 35-millimeter that he owned, later he let me keep it permanently,” DeBolt said.

Now that she has her own camera she can

take pictures whenever she wants. She practices in her backyard, around her neighborhood and all the way to downtown Des Moines.

DeBolt’s favorite thing to shoot tend to be

everyday objects she finds in her own home.

She can get creative with a pair of shoes to a

cue ball used for the game of pool. There are

even times DeBolt can convince her boyfriend and friends to model for her so she can improve her ability to take portraits.

DeBolt entered a black and white photo of a

pair of Converse in an empty room in The Iowa

State Fair Photo Contest in 2011. She won a second place ribbon and $50 in the Still Life Category.

Dakota Jackson is

Although the process of making jerky cost-effective

and

pretty

easy,

most

people don’t consider it one of their hobbies.

However,

Dakota

Jackson

does.

Jackson started watching his dad hunt

when he was five years old. By the time he was nine, he took up the bow and start-

ed hunting. “[Hunting] gets you away from everything else in the world and it gives

you a quiet time to think,” Jackson said.

Jackson hunts deer, turkey, squirrel and elk.

“Squirrel are actually delicious,” Jackson said.

He makes his jerky out of the deer and elk though. “They taste a lot alike,” he said. “Once

you make the jerky out of them, it’s mostly the

taste of whatever seasoning you put on them.”

With the meat and a dehydrator, jerky is

something many people could make themselves. “It’s pretty time consuming because

you have to do five pounds of meat at a time and it takes probably half a day,” Jackson said.

Although it may take a while, Jackson thinks it is well worth the time. “It tastes better than

the brands and it’s definitely cheaper,” Jackson said. “I can make five pounds for 20 bucks.”

He also puts the “trophies” on his wall at his

sewing provides an outlet to Varley. “It takes my

home. “In our living room we have seven deer,

laxes me.”

it for the future, Jackson doesn’t sell his jerky at

mind off school and activities,” she said. “It re-

two elk and a bear.” Although he is looking into the moment. For now, “I share it if they (friends

and family) want it, and during the holidays I take it to our family get-togethers.” Jackson said.

words & layout

Ashley Shay, Sarah Ross, & Paige Cramer