November 2009

Black&White

rivals. bowl game debates considered

the black and white. november 2009. volume 19 issue 4. 5152780449. 6501 NW 62nd ave. johnston. iowa one copy free

ON THE COVER photo illustration by Kallen Kramer

check us out online www.theblackandwhiteonline.com

NEWS Coleman wins award

3

Social studies teacher of the year

News briefs Walgreens restrictions

4

The local store limits four students at a time

Career Day

A beneficial opportunity for students

Track two P.E.

6

Needs to be tweaked

Infinite campus

Teachers need to update more frequently

7

Excuses, excuses Be responsible for yourself

REVIEW Coffee Shops

8

A look at the best local stops

p19

p20

STAFF JM KK LG

EDITORS IN CHIEF Julia Manning

Kallen Kramer layout

Lauren Gehrke managing

Things to do in j-town

9

checklist of things and places to do and see

DOUBLE TRUCK

We apologize for the misspelling of the following names:

Tyler Neumann Meghan Batterson

15

The Tale of Pants

Jeans, the staple to everyone’s wardrobe

DUNGEON

Breathe.

17

Find a way to relieve your stress

FEATURE

Margaret Standish

Girl wrestler starts her high school career

SPORTS

12

Paintball Pros

Joe Twickler and Chad Sexton

18

Bowl games

13

JAURON!

19

Divers succeed

14

Random spotlight

Teacher shares his crazy tactics

Iowa & Iowa State have a chance Two divers podium at state

Over Time Referee debate

Hannah Dankbar

HEALTH

BACKPAGE

16

20

Benefits of breakfast EAT IT!

SUB-EDITORS

CC PM EO KM KM

Catherine Caracci news

Philip Mortens opinion

Eric Oatts entertainment

Kelly McGowan Kiera Morrill photo

Can you say AWK?!

i

...ward. Dating situations.

p15

p9

fashion

OCTOBER ISSUE CORRECTIONS

FASHION

ENTERTAINMENT

index

OPINION

p18

p8

10/11

EDITORIAL 5

p21 p6

BW KK MK DL KS

Brennan Winget lifestyle

Kelsey Kruse feature

Matt Knoedel sports

Dwight Lykins online

Kyle Soyer photo

STAFF WRITERS Jon

Houp

Monisha Kumar

Michael Knoedel Alyssa Czapla Chris Caracci

Blake Schlawin

Cathleen Dutcher Ryan Smaha Mike Shi

Dahlia Gordon

Kristine Hayes

Zach Winjum

Lauren Coffey

Kevin Hu

Andy Halterman

Evan Culbert

Alex Grapp

Michael Carlson

Scott Monroe

Spencer Vasey

Ethan Meng

Liz Waller

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.

news

Nov 09

p3

Coleman’s connections merit award words & layout Michael Knoedel Sophomore year, bottom of the crop … again.

Sarah Engstrom found herself trudging from class to class with only the thought of sixth period to pull her through. Sociology with Mrs. Coleman.

“It was one of those classes where I actually

learned something. I was having a really frustrating time that semester, and I really looked forward

to sixth period everyday because it was sociology that made everything better,” recent graduate Engstrom said.

Recently, Kelly Coleman received a call from

the executive secretary of the Iowa Council of Social Studies teachers (ICSS) who informed her that she had won the title of Social studies teacher of the year.

Matt Knoedel/BW

“I think I do a good job at what I do,” Coleman

said. “Every day in all my 15 years of teaching, I

Social studies teacher of the year, Kelly Coleman, grades assignments and checks up on her e-mail’s during her free period.

students to the best of my abilities.” One of those

her lesson plans to the members of ICSS in the

“

go home with the feeling that I’ve helped these students was Engstrom who is now a freshman at Simpson College.

“I liked [Coleman’s] class

so much that I decided to

take the social issues class

to learn more about Sociology even though I was a senior [which meant] that I had

”

Coleman provides kids with information in a real engaging way. She deserves the award.

-Bruce Hukee

to do another service learning project along with it,” Engstrom said. “Thank you very much (Mrs.

Coleman). If it weren’t for you, I wouldn’t be majoring in Sociology at Simpson College today.”

In accepting this award, Coleman presented

NB

fall conference. Her plans will then be shared with social studies teachers all over the state.

For winning this award, Cole-

man was encouraged to submit

an application for the National

Council for the Social Studies teacher of the year, the national

competition, but she decided against it. “It is a

long process and I simply don’t have the time,” Coleman said. “In just submitting my application I would have to take a couple weeks off of school so it’s simply not worth it.”

Nick Smith commits

Things tolook Forward U.S. History-

to in

Coleman’s Classes

A student in Mrs. Coleman’s U.S. History class can look forward to a visit from a Vietnam War veteran, and discussions about current topics that are directly relevant to today.

Sociology-

A key project that students look forward to in Coleman’s class is the norm violation project where students try to break the normal social contract. Some previous projects include trick or treating when it wasn’t halloween, and playing the piano at Von Maur.

Social IssuesIn this class, students look forward to the multiple debates ranging from health care, death penalty, and birth control. The class prepares people to defend a side of an argument.

Cheerleaders disqualified at state Johnston record for All-State call backs

Senior Nick Smith signed with the Cheerleaders were disqualified at the Twenty of the 27 Chamber Choir Members that auSouthwest Minnesota State Mus- state meet where they performed at 5 ditioned for All-State made call backs, a Johnston tangs to play basketball. The sign- pm on Nov. 7 at Vets Auditorium. Judges record. Of those students, 12 made the All-State ing took place at JHS in front of the argued disqualification for two reasons. Choir. Students include Bailey Petersma, Claire Ot-

news briefs

words & layout Dahlia Gordon

big gym on Nov. 11, National Sign- The first being the time limit, their routine tley, Ryan Bower, Tim Gates, Chris Oatts, Nick Miller, ing Day. Smith was first recruited was three seconds too long. The second Nick Evans, Leah Bowman, Sarah Mayer, Molly Scsophomore year by SW Minneso- was for someone having a belly button hunicht, Chris Dockum, Alyssa Becker, and alternate ta State. “I’m excited to go to SW ring, since jewelry is prohibited. Neither Ryan Smaha. The students auditioned on Oct. 24 at

Minnesota State to accusation was proven right or wrong by Indianola High School. A change in preparation could play basketball; the cheerleaders or judges, but the results have led to the record number. “The students did

school is just a re- did leave cheerleaders and fans upset. recordings every week along with before and after ally good fit for me,” “After the awards when we didn’t place school rehearsals and more work on their own outSmith said. we didn’t know what went wrong and a side of school,” Chamber Choir director Sarah Van lot of us were crying because we thought Waardhuizen said. we did really well,” captain Patricia Miller said.

news

Nov 09

p4

Walgreens limits amount of students words & layout Zach Winjum Walgreens has implemented a policy that al-

lows only four unaccompanied students in the

store at a time. The policy took effect a few weeks after school began. It continues to dictate the num-

ber of students allowed in the store during times of heavy student traffic such as after school.

The Walgreens management decided to in-

still the policy due to customers’ complaints of

students. Before the rule was put in place, there would be instances of 30-40 students in the store

at one time. The students were loud and have also been caught stealing from the store. “It is only a small minority of the student population that is

causing these problems,” Robert Elfinger, media relations representative for Walgreens corporate, said.

Managers feel this step is necessary to keep

customers in the store happy as well as limit shoplifting. There is camera surveillance all around the store. There have been numerous thefts, some students have been charged. Since the policy has

been in place, it has worked well for Walgreens.

“It keeps customers in the store longer and they

provided/Kiera Morrill

Sophomore Adam Lovell walks out of Walgreens after school. The sign on the door reads, “Only 4 unsupervised students are allowed in the store at any given time. Thank you for your cooperation.”

may put something in their cart they wouldn’t have

before,” Elfinger said. On the other side, the policy keeps out students who would have spent their

money there by making them wait for others to clear out.

Students have a different view of what the

policy does to their business. Sophomore Monica

DeCarlo walked into the store with a friend right after school to buy something to eat before cheering for a football game. She was surprised to know

that the policy denied convenient service to stu-

dents. DeCarlo was stopped at the door and told to wait until four students cleared from the store.

“We didn’t have enough time to buy anything so

After

we just left,” DeCarlo said.

Students frequently visit Walgreens because of

its convenient location two blocks from the school.

“I am assuming they are losing business because

a lot of students that haven’t gone,” sophomore

COULDN’T BUY ANYTHING “I was going in for an after school snack when they told me they only allowed four students at a time.”

Jacob Knopf

‘12

Austin Smoldt-Saenz said. “It is unfair to make

all students wait, but I can see where they come

from.” Elfinger confirmed the store has lost student business.

It is unknown what must happen for the policy

to be revoked. “Honestly I’m not sure what has to happen for the signs to come down,” Elfinger said.

Jiahui Huang‘13

IT’S UNFAIR “I don’t think it is fair for some people’s behavior to effect everyone.”

S

chool

ALTERNATIVES Dairy Queen Walking distance and serves great ice cream and burgers

Casey’s General Store Stop in after school for cookies and pizza.

Kum and Go 99 cent 32 ounce fountain drinks.

editorial

Nov 09

Career Day hard work pays off

p5

Entrepreneur

Personal Training

Fashion

Pharmaceutical Sales

Movie Industry

Pharmacist

Art

Financial Planning

Photography

Attorney

Graphic Design

Physical Therapy

Automotive

Construction

Sports Medicine

Banking

Interior Design

Physician

Trade Careers

International Careers

Physician Assistant

Accounting Air Transportation Architecture

Chiropractic Computers Contractor

Landscape

Public Relations

Helen Lagerblade/Dragon

Counselors Pat Ashby and Sarah Morris from Family Legacy Counseling share with students about their careers at career day. career that they talked about, giving Architecture seniors, it looked like a chill day, se- students even more options.

Recently, we had an early out. To

nior breakfast and then career day. To

Another benefit of career day was

helping to build a community and giving Law Enforcement more work with ITEDs but career day us good contacts for later. juniors and sophomores, it was a little

was a fun way to unwind. While stu-

“This helps get the community in-

enjoy this easy day, they do not volved,” Doctor Joan Roberts, who US Secret Service Cosmetology dents even begin to understand the work that has a masters in education said. “The

Counseling Psychology Culinary Arts

went into and the benefits that came out

school used to be the hub of the com-

munity but now it’s kind of separate.

Lobbyist One of the biggest benefits was that This is a good way to bring people in

of career day.

students were able to learn more about

from the community.”

Attorney Not only does this connect the comthat they have never even heard about. munity to the students and bring them all a career they are interested in or one “I have a passion for helping students

Actor ganizer of career day, said.

“I know we

to explore careers,” Shelly Schlawin, ordon’t have everything for everyone but I

es based on their friends or something

that just looks fun. Even then, students

Education

about.

Engineering

Some speakers have more than one

other careers that they know nothing

reers offered with several speakers.

Radio Reporting

before. Going to a session just for fun

could have helped spark an idea that you never even considered before. You

Anthropologist

might have found a career that you really think you will enjoy and had never thought about, heard about, or looked into.

Science

“(Career day) may make someone

decided they want to do a field,” Princi-

Technology

pal Bruce Hukee said.

Not only is this a good opportunity,

to talk with people who are involved in

sible.

from the local area. Students are able the career they want to pursue or that

Social Services

many people in their first pick as pos“The best thing is that 100 percent

Sports Technology Sales

they are even somewhat interested in.

of students got their first pick,” Schlawin

things, maybe help them know contacts

and 83 percent got all three picks.”

later,” Schlawin said.

“A lot of these

back and share with others about their experience.”

Music – Instrumental Contacts are a great benefit that stu-

There was a total of 51 different ca-

that they have never even considered

Schlawin worked very hard to get as

can still explore and learnMilitary more about speakers gave up their time to give

Dietitian

en someone an idea about a career

together, students get to meet contacts

Mathematics Dental Hygienist Students sometimes pick their choic“I want to expose students to new hope that students can explore more.”

Advertising

Going to career day may have giv-

dents can use for future references and learning.

Music - Vocal

said. “97 percent got their top two picks, Make the most of career day. Take

Broadcasting

what you learned and what you are interested in and pursue it. Call the con-

tacts you made. Ask questions. Career

Theatre

day is a big thing that the school worked on to bring to the students to help them for their future.

Veterinary Medicine

opinion

Nov 09

p6

Track two needs tweaking words & layout Mike Shi

At the beginning of first semester last year, I was ex-

cited for track two P.E. We would be playing ping-pong and

doing archery, a nice change from the personnel fitness

P.E. of freshman year. However, as the year went on, P.E. became a bore, the period drug on, and it seemed like we

would never be done with pickle ball. Track two needs a change to get students excited for P.E. again.

In track two, we usually played one or two player ac-

tivities such as like table tennis, shuffleboard, fencing, and archery. We also spent a great deal of time on racquet

sports like tennis, badminton, racquetball, and pickle ball.

Occasionally, we did some team sports like volleyball and kickball.

While some of these activities were fun, after a few

weeks they got repetitive and boring, one can only play

Jon Houp/BW

Left: Working on her swing, junior Paige Collison gets ready to return the ball during Track two.

Right: Junior Dirk Opland swings a forehand shot to hit a racquetball.

ping-pong for so long, after a while, you just stop trying or

during P.E. It says something when students have to take

quets and the net is lower toward the ground. Pickle ball

usually just spend the whole semester playing against the

track two.

ball with a paddle. Playing pickle ball after two months of

inclined to try in the activities. Also, it gives students some-

activities is needed. In order to increase the atmosphere

class at badminton or just improving their skills.

replaced.

terrible. Pickle ball was one of my worst experiences with

the track for me. However, it wasted what could have been

wiffle-balls and wooden paddles instead of birdies and rac-

ties were taught, track two may just redeem itself.

caring. The reason for this is the lack of competition; you

same two or three people you know rather then in, say, track three where you interact with more people.

By adding a more competitive aspect to track two, stu-

dents can get more enjoyment out of the class. Because

most of the activities we do are individual or partners, a type of tournament is easily feasible; we even occasionally did this when we played table tennis. In fact, some

students have resorted to creating their own tournaments

matters into their own hands in order to have fun during

was boring; one can only get so much joy out of hitting a

By creating a competition, students would be more

racquet sports was just too repetitive; a larger variety in

thing to work towards, whether it is being the best in their

of track two, new activities need to be added and old ones

Some of the activities are not only boring but just plain

P.E. It was essentially badminton, which I liked, except with

Track two had potential; I came into it thinking this was

a good class. If competition was increased and more activi-

Infinite campus needs more frequent updates words & layout Monisha Kumar

more responsible comes with them knowing what they are missing and what they need to improve on.

Being a senior and having so much to keep track of I

“During staff meetings we suggest that teachers update

have noticed myself becoming an Infinite Campus addict.

Infinite Campus at least every two weeks,” Principal Bruce

When trying to find my current grades, I usually end up

Hukee said. There are also reminders sent to teachers

becoming frustrated due to them not being updated; I am

in memos periodically as well. With all these reminders it

certain I am not the only one of my kind. I hear students

is hard for one to comprehend why students have to go

constantly complaining about grades not being current for

weeks with out receiving feedback or knowing their grade.

many weeks after they were turned in.

Yet another frustrating time for students is when they

“It gets really annoying when your parents yell at you

for grades because Infinite Campus isn’t updated but you know your grade has gone up because you have turned in

are absent and come back wanting to know what they Kyle Soyer/BW

have missed. “I hate it when you come back after being

gone and ask teachers what you missed and they tell you

all your assignments,” senior Dan Ratekin said.

Senior James Sevenich checks his Infinite to go check Infinite Campus!” junior Labria Gates said.

Campus account before school.

know their grades on a regular basis. If this is the case

ing that many of us have to wait to the end of the quarter

Teachers mention they feel it is important that students

then why do many of us not receive any feedback for so long? For a lot of students feedback is important so they

can better understand the material. It is extremely frustrat-

to find that our grades are one thing while we thought

differently. I understand that teachers have a lot of things they have to take care of but part of students becoming

Along with Gates I find it very hard to check Infinite Campus for what you are missing when it is not on there.

This is not a blame game by any means but rather a request from students for more consistency with feedback and updating grades.

be

opinion

Nov 09

7:50

Responsible.

Tardies earned, lesson learned. words Philip Mortens layout Kallen Kramer We all have a daily struggle that we must

around fourth period, a friend of mine ar-

making new friends, some have difficulty

attendance office. Once he sits down, I

try to overcome. Some people struggle remembering assignments. Mine is fairly simple, getting to school on time.

Its 7:00 am, and it takes every ounce

of will that I posses to move my body from the warm sanctuary known as my bed. As I

walk to the shower in a zombie like trance,

I glance at the clock and see that I have about an hour to get to school. Telling my-

rives to class with a nice pass from the

confront him on his lateness expecting

the stereotypical doctor’s appointment, or something along those lines. But his response shocked me, “Oh, I was up late last

night so my mom let me sleep in today.”

The only thing I can do is look blankly in wonder at that statement.

In my family, you must bear the burden

self that I am fine on time, I let the shower

of your actions, whether that be staying up

function in normal society. Once this is fi-

out of bed early. So far to first period, I have

help bring me to a conscious state that can nally achieved I make another quick glance at the clock, 7:25 am, my time is dwindling.

Jumping into my car at 7:44 am, I push my

dying jeep to the limit in my attempt to not be tardy. Pulling into the parking lot at the

school at 7:54 am, I leap from my car and

way too late on a school night, or getting been late in upwards of 14 recorded times,

that is called a referral. Did my mom call me

in for any of these times that I was late to excuse me from punishment? No. She lets it serve as a “learning experience.”

I just can not understand how parents

start the daily sprint to first period. As I rush

can promote their kids to think that the re-

that I seem to be the only one concerned

problem to deal with. This does not just

towards the building I look around and see with making the 7:55 am mark for the start of school, which I do not end up making by the way.

Sitting in class one day, somewhere

percussions from their actions are not their stem from tardies, but into all areas of life.

If a student thinks that its okay to break this

little rule, and my mom will just call me in, where will it eventually stop?

p7

review

Nov 09

p8

Coffee shop low-down People have been drinking coffee for over 700 years. Every day, the average American consumes 3.1 cups of this popular beverage. Coffee shops have become an important part of American culture. They provide a place for working, socializing, or just hanging out. We reviewed four local coffee shops on feeling, food, and most importantly, the coffee.

Mars Cafe

Rich’s Brew

Java Joe’s

MUG

LOCATION

words & layout Alyssa Czapla, Spencer Vasey & Kallen Kramer

214 4th Street, Des Moines At Java Joes you get the feel of a traditional coffee shop with some other aspects. You

can order meals such as sandwiches and soup or even a dessert such as ice cream.

The adjoining Fourth Street Whatever offers concerts that are often held and the place

is large enough that you don’t feel cramped with everyone else there. The employees are friendly and talkative and although the prices are high, it’s worth it considering you have the option of getting coffee and ice cream.

5800 Merle Hay Rd- Suite 9, Johnston Rich’s Brew, located on Merle Hay in Johnston, was the most laid back of the shops

we visited. Rich Andrews, the owner of the shop, jokes around with customers and

makes a first time visitor feel at home. The shop has a relaxed feel, with handwritten signs and various sports paraphernalia covering the walls. The drinks are good,

but it’s the homemade muffins and pastries that are the real draw. Rich’s offers a full lunch menu, but it is only served from 11 until 1:30. The prices are low, which is a nice

change from the $5 coffee you find at most places. Rich’s Brew is a great place to gather with friends in a fun and friendly atmosphere.

2318 University Ave. Des Moines Walking into Mars Cafe, one word came to mind. Mod. All around me were young

adults on lap tops, with their headphones in, but what else would you expect at a coffee shop in the middle of a college campus. The pictures on the walls were modern,

and everything was from the same color family, very neutral. The menu was typical

coffee shop items, such as lattes, and pastries. Many coffee drinks had names having to do with outer space and Mars. Not only do they offer coffee and desserts but they also serve sandwiches as well. Although their drinks and food were expensive it

Ritual Cafe

was well worth it...the cake is melt in your mouth amazing!

1301 Locust St. #D, Des Moines Ritual Cafe is not your average coffee shop. The shop, which is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, serves only vegetarian dishes. The walls are adorned with

rainbow flags and band posters. The coffee tasted remarkably familiar, which I later

found out was because they only serve freshly brewed Java Joe’s coffee. Also similar to Java Joe’s, Ritual Cafe offers live music several nights a week. I ordered a

continental divine smoothie which, as the name suggests, was truly divine. They don’t offer free wi-fi, which was kind of a disappointment, but having computers everywhere would take away from the cool industrial feel.

Kiera Morrill/BW

entertainment

Nov 09

p9

JOHNSTON

things to do in Dragon territory before you die Everyone should get the most out of this flourishing town before graduating

Surrounding Area

words & layout Eric Oatts Located 1,109 miles from downtown New York

(Johnston, Urbandale, Grimes, Polk City)

City, 335 miles from downtown Chicago, and 8.5

miles from downtown Des Moines, Johnston is often overlooked by many as a great city. In actuality, though, it is one of the fastest-growing cities in

B Beaver Creek

Iowa, with a population of over 13,500, and offers

H Walnut Ridge NW Beaver Drive Johnston, IA

I Sa

plenty of entertainment.

ylo

If one is bored on a weekend night, one does

le

rvil

F “The Wall”

H

NW 100th St Johnston, IA

F

I

Be

facts, there is no evidence to state that Johnston

e

activities to have fun. When you really look at the

Lak

not have to turn to drinking/drugs or other illegal

NW Polk City Dr Polk City, IA

G

entertainment.

The Black & White staff did some research and

Cactus Bob’s

NW 70th Ave

D

Merle Hay Road Johnston, IA

found what non-school-sponsored activities stu-

E

dents can do. There is even a little trendy checklist at the bottom of the page so you can make

B

C

NW 62nd Ave

NW 54th

D Plaza Mexico

ties before you (maybe) leave after your time at

A

86th Street and 62nd Ave Johnston, IA

the high school.

Panchero’s Mexican Grill

E

G

Northpark Court Johnston, IA

I-80

Meredith Drive

sure you do all the essential Johnstonian festivi-

A Merle Hay

other various unique places where one can find

86th St

taurants, scenic landmarks, bodies of water and

rive

Hwy 141

rD

ave

is a “boring” town at all. There are plenty of res-

Saylorville Marina

Iowa Crush Johnston Stadium Johnston, IA

C

Chambery Boulevard Chambery Blv. Johnston, IA

THINGS TO DO CHECKLIST

Bomb Chambery

Over the past two years, long boarding has become increasingly popular in Johnston. Buy a long board, practice riding, and then head to Green Meadows West to hit this hill.

daddiesboardshop.com

Go Creeking

If Beaver Creek is flooded, just jump in! Make sure you have a life jacket, floatie, aqua saddle, or something of that nature, and enjoy this creek that probably runs through your backyard.

Hit The Wall

Located at the north end of 100th Street, this tiny bridge looks like a wall if you are driving towards it (going the speed limit.) To most, the idea of driving into a wall is pretty scary, making this exhilarating

Disc Golf

For those that like to golf but cannot afford it, or for those who just like to be outdoors, head out to Walnut Ridge by Saylorville. It is still fun even if you are not good!

discsunlimited.net

Build a Burrito

If you have not been to Panchero’s then you have never lived. Next time your stomach is grumbling go to Panchero’s and treat it right by eating a girthy burrito.

pancheros.com

Provided/theiowacrush.com

Watch the Crush

Iowa’s pro women’s football team plays at the Johnston stadium each season in the spring, so if you feel like watching some good, old-fashioned football, check these ladies out.

theiowacrush.com

double-truck

Nov 09

breathe.

(catharsis: purging of emotion, from the Greek katharos “pure” or “clean”)

p12/13

Hobbies knitting

“

I just wanted to start knitting so I got on YouTube and learned.

Kylie Kinsey Senior

It allows me to focus on something else. The motion is automatic, I don’t have to think about it.

It’s very cathartic.

“

creativity for the soul

God spirituality brings peace Relationship, prayer, discussion, and a break from the day to day worries of life is what many students have found going to church offers them. It’s easy to get bogged down with stresses at home, school and work, but taking time during the week to put all these things aside and worship God is something that many could not go without. The purpose of going to church is that it is not only once a week, but brings peace throughout the week, and keeps a heavenly focus in life.

Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA), shown to the left, is a club that meets every other week. Look for signs around the school for time and location of “huddles.” The group shares a common interest of spirituality and seeks to spend time as a group growing closer to God and in the process relieving the stress of daily life.

Above: Senior Cody Walkup holds a Bible and shares at an FCA “huddle.” Below: Seniors Libby Elmitt, Ben Vander Ploeg, Cody Walkup and Chris Oatts lead FCA in worship songs.

“You aren’t judged, “ At church you can be who you are.

Kristen Gifford Sophomore

and everyone can feel comfortable.

Although we may not have realized it at the time, we have all used art therapy as kids in art class expressing ourselves through drawing and creating. Using art to get in touch with our feelings. There is a unique joy in expressing yourself through art that is like nothing else, so get those paints back out that you used as a kid and make a masterpiece of your own.

Knitting We too often link knitting with the elderly or think of it as a dated hobby, but knitting and crafts alleviate stress and anxiety. After a long stressful day when we would all prefer

to collapse on the couch after getting home when there’s still homework and a list of “to-do’s,” spending some time on a crafty hobby may be the tool needed to calm nerves. Psychologists say that the repetitive motions, the act of creation, and self-expression are what makes knitting and other crafts the solution to feeling useless and an instant stress-reliever.

Any kind of art or craft can take your mind off of what is stressing you out, and can put you into an almost meditative state. After being completely engrossed in your work of art, you may return to your life with a clearer perspective on what was stressing you out at one time. stress.about.com

Music musical healing Clinical research shows the effectiveness of music on healing the body both physically and emotionally. Music therapists are being trained around the globe to use singing, dancing, and composing for individual needs of clients. This isn’t simply a new age tactic to alleviate stress, there is tangible evidence for the success of this form of therapy.

[

music therapy: a growing health field that incorporates creating, singing, or moving to music in order to address social, psychological, physical and cognitive needs of individuals.

[

“

Maddie Mandsager Senior

I tend to find songs that I can

relate

to, and finding something to relate to is a stress reliever

“

musictherapy.org

feature

Nov 09

p12

Some paint with brushes ...others paint with guns

words & layout Kevin Hu The Game

Five men stand side-by-side, each with a

hand touching the wall, the other hand grip-

ping their guns. Like statues, no one makes

the hundreds of teams all over the country

that get together and practice, play together, and go to tournaments together.

“The organization we’re trying to set up

a move. In senior Joe Twickler’s body, his

right now, there are a lot of big teams out

ingly slowing down around him. His partner,

and multiple teams under it,” Twickler said.

heart pounds against his chest, time seemjunior Chad Sexton, tightens his grip on his

gun, ready to run and gun. The two teammates have been playing together for three years, and they have been here before, time frozen around them...

An air horn sounds.

Instantly, statues spring to life, three

of the men dash to the nearest inflatable.

Paintballs fly across the field in all direc-

tions as Twickler and Sexton scramble left

and right. Twickler whispers a silent prayer as he dives for cover behind the inflatable, knowing he could be subjected to the sharp

stab of pain that paintballs cause at any second.

Unfortunately, at the last second, a paint-

ball nails him in the side, knocking the air

out of him. Frustration overwhelms him, as he stands up, hands in the air, making his way out of the arena. Twickler looks over

to his companion Sexton, who was lucky enough to dodge oncoming paint and returning fire himself now. Maybe it isn’t fair, but that’s just the way the game is played.

The Team

With years of experience, Twickler and

Sexton find themselves in a group of players called New Jack Ghetto, a team below

New Jack City, their sister team. New Jack City and New Jack Ghetto are examples of

there that have one good team at the top, “Right now, our coach [Brad Schaffer] is trying to set up more teams like that.”

Sexton and Twickler are on the team

along with two other students from Dowling

Catholic and one student who attends Iowa State University.

The Tournaments

Twickler and Sexton have participated

in numerous paintball events. “ We’ve been

to Omaha, Chicago, and Tampa for tourna-

ments,” Sexton said. “There’s about 500 teams total, so at least 2,000 people, plus 500 people looking at trade shows.”

“[At these events] our team wakes up at

7 am to head out to the fields, gear up, and scout other teams,” Sexton said. “We are ready to start playing at 8 am”

For ten hours for four days, teams en-

ter the arena and battle it out, attempting to

eliminate the other team to achieve victory.

Once a team loses; two teams battle it out best out of three.

“A team usually needs to win two games

and lose two games in order to move on,”

Twickler said. “Otherwise, on the last day of your division play, you’ll just be watching from the sideline.”

After a long day, new friends are made,

stomachs are hungry, and teams meet and celebrate together.

The Costs

“My parents are happy to cover my air-

fare, hotel fees, and other expenses. They make me pay the entrance fee though,”

Twickler said. “Each team has to pay about

$2500, [and with 5 people on each team] I have to pay about $500. All the gear I have is over about $700.”

New Jack also practices on weekends,

every weekend during paintball season.

“Usually a practice costs $60 per player,” Twickler said. “Depending on how many people we have, we try to get other teams

in the area to come out with us and prac-

tice, try and run scrimmages. If we don’t have enough people, we just run drills.”

Twickler and Sexton are fortunate

enough to have a sponsor for their team.

DSS Paintball sponsors their team and provides the team with equipment. “At compe-

New Jack Ghetto

titions, we wear jerseys and logos from Empire Paintball; DSS Paintball goes through Empire, one of the top paintball companies in the nation,” Twickler said.

The Future

With a sponsor, an aspiring team, and a

driving ambition, Twickler and Sexton hope

to go even further. “Hopefully, this is some-

Joe Twickler and Connor Scholl

thing I can further pursue in college,” Twickler said. “I love the sport, and I love meeting others who enjoy [the sport].”

“I’m going to play through college and

see where it goes from there,” Sexton said.

“I’d love to go pro someday, but it just depends on how the team does in events. After this season, we’ll see how we do, how far we may end up going someday.”

Joe Twickler

New Jack Ghetto analyzes the field, planning routes and making sure the team is on the same page. “This game is more planning and communication than anything else,” Sexton said.

Shooting down field, Joe Twickler utilizes the double-tap, firing with both fingers. “This method increases the chance of hitting your man, seeing as sometimes the balls don’t break,” Twickler said.

Chad Sexton

Joe Twickler and friends

Rushing from the starting point, Twickler and his group of friends rush to key positions on the field. “On the left, there are usually the ‘dorito’ inflatables, on the right, there are the ‘snake’ inflatables,” Twickler said. “I usually work the doritoes, Chad [Sexton] works the snake.”

Chad Sexton

Photos provided by Joe Twickler and Chad Sexton

feature

Nov 09

WWJD

What would Jauron do?

words & layout Kyle Soyer

p13

nitely pound for pound the most exciting teacher in the hallway,” Tom Griffin, social studies teacher said.

The slap of palm against palm rises

In the end, however, school should be

above the chatter of the upstairs hallway

as senior Joe Payne slaps that of social

fun. “And not only fun for you, fun for me,”

three years for that high five,” Payne said.

When his hands are not filled with as-

studies teacher Jason Jauron. “I’ve waited

Jauron said.

“And it was worth it.” Holding a sign that

sorted throw-able objects or the whoopie

can often be found with a queue of seniors

cient tennis racket. “My dad always told me

times, instead of high fives, seniors receive

Jauron said. He has applied this to teach-

“Senior year should be special. It’s a

or persona. “Who knows what I’ll do next

reads “High fives, seniors only”, Jauron

cushion, you can find Jauron with his an-

before him during passing period. Some-

you can’t coach the same way each year,”

candy. Why?

ing. Each year, each chooses a new object

privilege,” Jauron said. “Let’s do something

year?” Jauron said. “Maybe it will be the bandanna, [maybe] the kilt.”

to make it special.”

For many, it is indeed a privilege. “I re-

member walking into AP World and watching seniors fly by,” senior Justin Handel said.

“It feels good to finally get that chance.”

Even underclassmen and students who

do not know Jauron, experience his antics.

Kyle Soyer/BW

Juniors cluster around social studies teacher Jason Jauron as he asks them trivia questions during passing period. Students who answered correctly received a Snickers.

You can also come visit Jauron before

school; he normally has a movie showing

from 7:15 to 7:00, Monday through Thurs-

day. So far, he has shown “The Princess Bride,” “Land Before Time,” and two con-

Students who do not get a chance to

Some may suddenly find a miniature foot-

catch the football may instead experience

He also plays catch with teachers, too.

target, waits for the target to walk past, and

studies teacher) out in the hallway,” Jauron

“He enjoys helping kids fart,” Yenger

ting, he’s a human being,” he said. “He’s not threatening.”

to give you areas where you can feel comfortable,” Jauron said.

ball flying towards them.

the whoopie cushion. Jauron picks out a

“The football gets Kinder (Jerry, social

then pretends to let one fly.

said. “I’m throwing him the football while

said. And he is good at it too.

(Leslie, journalism teacher) room, and he

real, and that’s just disgusting,” Jauron

not want himself and the other social stud-

Jauron said. For someone with a schedule

But more importantly, Jauron is working

hall monitoring. Social studies teacher Ben

sacrifice. “I have more contact time with

ships with students.”

ron said. So he takes every chance to be

he’s trying to pick up papers from Shipp’s

hasn’t dropped it yet.” Other teachers get in on the action to.

“We throw a football down the hallway to

model an active lifestyle,” Jeremy Yenger, social studies teacher, said.

WWJS What would Jauron say?

Room 411. Jauron’s “den.” Take a visit, and you will find posters written in Jauron’s handwriting covering the walls. Among them are song lyrics, quotes from books, and other motivational sayings.

Here are a few. Enjoy.

“I’ve practiced enough and it sounds

said.

to break down the barrier between teachers and students.

“The guy you keep walking by who’s far-

Plus, it is just plain fun. “It’s interesting to

certs: Pearl Jam and the Police. “We want

sort of shock kids,” Jauron said. “The look

on their faces is priceless. Especially the kids who don’t know me.”

Why all this mayhem?

Outside of school, Jauron is a husband

and dad. In his free time, he might be coloring or playing Play Station with his daughter, Kate. “Or I’m letting Christian (Jauron’s

Several reasons. Partly, Jauron does

son) jump off the couch onto my kidneys,”

ies teachers seen as a “police force” while

like Jauron, one’s kidneys are only a small

Knight calls it a “tactic of building relation-

you goofballs than with my own kids,” Jau-

This tactic seems to work. “He is defi-

with them.

feature

Nov 09

Get to know

[

p14

Hannah Dankbar

]

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

words & layout Lauren Gehrke

uiz

q B&W

Spanish, swimming, and so much more Take a look into senior Hannah Dank-

bar’s life and she looks like a typical teen.

group of kids come together for 45 minutes

social life, but there is something different.

guage at the door,” senior Tanner Gardiner

loves foreign language.

stepping out of our shells and having a

She is busy with school, swimming, and a

and leave all notions of their primary lan-

Unlike most high school students, Dankbar

said. “It’s a class where we’re comfortable

Dankbar has been taking Spanish since

8th grade. Now, in AP Spanish, Dankbar

Senior Hannah Dankbar looks at the clock after completing the 100 freestyle at the state meet in Marshalltown on Nov. 7. Swimming is a passion for Dankbar.

great time.”

While Spanish is apart of Dankbar’s life

will be traveling to Spain for spring break.

that she really enjoys, it is not the only thing

ish in college.

known talents that she really enjoys. “I don’t

Dankbar said. “I kind of want to go to Mexi-

been playing since third grade but no lon-

Dankbar’s class has been together for

playing for fun and teaching herself new

Not only that, she is going to pursue Span-

she does. Playing piano is one of her un-

“I want to study medicine and Spanish,”

talk about it much,” Dankbar said. She has

co and work in a poorer area.”

ger takes lessons. Instead she enjoys just

awhile, as not many students choose to

songs.

take AP Spanish.

Julia Manning/BW

“It’s one of the few classes where a

Another thing that is a big thing part of

“We do so many random things,” Dank-

her life is swimming. She is a two time state

about how I couldn’t marry Ashton Kutch-

was to grasp the school record in the 100

Assignments like this are regular occur-

onds. Dankbar plans on swimming in col-

bar said. “I wrote a composition one time

qualifier and this year and her main goal

er.”

breaststroke. She missed it by 0.7 sec-

rences in Dankbar’s class. Their class is

lege though she is undecided as to where

close and they enjoy their time together.

she is going to go.

fashion

Nov 09

find

p15

your favorite

JEANS

words Liz Waller and Catherine Caracci

layout Kelly McGowan

You dress them up, you dress them down; you have light ones and dark ones, long ones and short ones. You run, walk, skip and jump in them. You buy them on sale, you splurge on them. You have sparkly ones and faded ones. You have ones with holes and ones that are too tight. You have jeans. And lots of them.

Jeans, or “waist overalls” as they were initially named, were created in 1873 by Levi Strauss and Jacob Davis, when they were mainly worn by farmers and laborers as work pants. Since then, they have endured changing trends and have become a staple in every American’s wardrobe. Companies began selling jeans nationally in the 1950s, and bell bottoms became the trend in the ‘60s and ‘70s.

Before the 1980s, jeans were designed mainly for men; however, as demand increased, companies began producing jeans for females, and designer brands like Sergio Valente, Jordache and Calvin Klein came about, introducing slimmer and thinner styles.

In the 1990s, jeans went out of fashion, as people turned to pants made of different kinds of fabric, like khakis, chinos, combat pants, carpenters and sportswear. However, since the start of the new millennium, jeans have made a comeback. Now, more than 2.3 billion pairs of jeans are sold each year.

Read on to find out more on how to find the perfect pair of jeans, whether you decide to splurge or save.

Jewele

d

“I like t he they h m because ave a u nique look, a nd the yh a style that’s r ave ig for eve ryone. ht ” -Renat a Kova c evic, sopho more

Faded “I do not think [really expensive jeans] are worth the money. They are more comfortable than cheaper jeans, but I think Hollister jeans fit me best.”

-Jalen Mickey, junior

$98-$

Save:

Rue 2

1 $19.

99

Miss M108 eDillards

Dark ans “Cheaper je just don’t fit legs right on my and butt.” s, -Angela Bate senior

7

$172-$29

True Religion Von Maur

$49.50

Hollister

Splurge: Big Star $94.00- $112.00

rican Save: Ame

0

Eagle $29.5

health

Nov 09

p16

Benefits of...Breakfast “Eat your breakfast!” your mom shouts as you roll your eyes and run out the door for school. As annoying as moms can be, they’re so right. The benefits of eating breakfast are numerous. Some think that skipping breakfast means skipping calories which means loosing weight. It’s actually the opposite. Your blood sugar needs to be at a certain level. If you don’t eat breakfast, your body is stuck in a low-energy state, which makes your brain seek out food more. By not eating breakfast you are less likely to make healthy decisions and overeat at lunch and dinner.

Eating a properly balanced breakfast, one that includes whole grains, fruit, and lean protein will leave you feeling more alert and energized throughout the day. Here’s an example of the perfect breakfast, and what food groups you should try to incorporate into your most important meal.

TRY: -Smoothie made with fruit & lowfat yogurt -Whole-grain cereal with fresh fruit & low-fat milk -Oatmeal made with skim milk, raisins and nuts & orange juice -Low-fat yogurt & a piece of fresh fruit -Yogurt smoothie & breakfast bar -Hard-boiled egg & a banana -A veggie omelet & a piece of whole-wheat toast -A whole-wheat English muffin with low-fat cheese, a scrambled egg

whole/ refined grain.

Foods in this group contain a large amount of B vitamins. They help to jump start your metabolism, which is vital in the morning. They are also healthy for your nervous system.

Whole grains especially help provide fiber which provide the full feeling, without the bulk of calories.

lean protein.

Scrambled or hard boiled eggs will add the boost of protein you need to help keep you feeling fuller longer. Just one egg is 75 calories.

If you feel yourself fading out around third or fourth period, eating a boost of protein in the morning is your best bet to stay energized. It also helps you to build muscle, and those muscle cells produce energy. Other lean proteins include reduced fat cottage cheese, lean turkey bacon, and small amounts of peanut butter. Overall, more energy, less calories, choose lean protein!

fruit.

Fruits are an important food group to digest throughout the whole day, and when eaten in the morning, can jump start your healthy eating routine. Especially when it comes to calories, fruits are naturally low in these, as well as sodium and fat. Grabbing a banana to add to your breakfast can also provide potassium for your diet which can help you maintain a healthy blood pressure.

You can also boost your immune system by adding an orange, kiwi or other Vitamin C rich foods to your breakfast.

Information provided by webMD.com

words Julia Manning layout Brennan WInget

dungeon

Nov 09

p17

MARGARET STANDISH

wrestling

tradition Name Margaret Standish

Age

14

Goals: Make it to state for high school wrestling and make it to the Olympics in judo.

Background She started wrestling to improve her judo skills. “[Coaches and other wrestlers] know who she is now,” Brian Standish, Margaret’s father, said. “I think that before she started they didn’t know what to be prepared for.” Standish has been wrestling for five years now.

Judo

Judo and wrestling have a lot in common. A lot of the moves are similar but judo allows for more physical contact. For example, it would be illegal in wrestling to punch someone, in judo it is called self-defense. The techniques used to pin an opponent in judo are the basis of wrestling pins and they are based on a point system. The big differences between the two sports are the take downs and submission styles. Many of the moves in judo will get you disqualified in wrestling.

head gear

margaret’s

ESSENTIALS

“In wrestling my favorite move is the head throw, even though it’s not allowed.”

For every 1000 wrestlers there are 9.6 injuries, so it helps to use head gear as a prevention.

perserverance “Some people [from other schools], like kind of laugh at me, [they think] because I’m a girl, I’m going to lose.”

dedication ”You have to be dedicated and not just mess around,” Standish said.

“That just really irritates me.” On average, any wrestler spends 15 hours a week in practice.

shoes Shoes are one of the most important attributes to a wrestlers preformance. They affect balance, mobility and also the grip and stance.

words Lauren Coffey & Kristine Hayes layout Julia Manning

sports

Nov 09

p18

Hawkeyes, Cyclones eye bowl berths BCS at-large very real possibility for Hawkeyes

Cyclones going bowling for first time since ‘05

words Ryan Smaha

words Scott Monroe

Two blocked kicks. As I walked out of Kinnick Stadium

He said he was dedicated. He said he loved Ames. He

that first Saturday of the year, I couldn’t have logically

promised to turn the program around. Then Gene Chizik

Northern Iowa, a FCS (Division 1-AA if you have

Auburn University. The Iowa State football program was

expected this successful of a year. If Iowa struggled with

took the first flight out of Des Moines, and headed for

followed college football long enough)

headed for yet another five years of rebuilding. Then, for

team, how would they compete with

the first time in the history of sports, something good hap-

teams that had double the talent

pened to the Cyclones. A former Auburn assistant stepped

and resources, like Penn State?

up to the podium, and delivered one of the most inspira-

And yet, to my surprise, Iowa has

tional speeches ever presented. As he held back tears,

found a way to win, no matter how

Paul Rhoads, who grew up in Ames, promised to “bring

ugly, all season.

back pride to the Cyclone nation.” He did, and then some.

Season at a glance

Season at a glance

Iowa has been a statistical wonder all sea-

When Rhoads promised a winner, it was widely as-

son. Their total offense ranks 81 in the na-

sumed that he meant after a year or two. It took him three

tion while the total defense rank is 11 in the

games to equal Chizik’s record from last season. Five

nation, an extreme abnormality for a top-

games later he had equaled Chizik’s win total over

tier team. The only statistic the Hawkeyes

a span of two years. Three more games

rank inside the top ten in is interceptions,

and the Cyclones were bowl-eligible

where they rank second with 19.

for the first time since 2005. Streaks

Another difference between Iowa and

were shattered. Before the season

traditional top teams is the lack of a star

started, Iowa State owned the na-

player. Only one player on the team is a

tions’s longest road losing streak.

semifinalist for any season award, Tyler

Snapped. The Cyclones had

Sash who is third in the nation with his six

an 11-game losing streak in the

interceptions.

Big 12. Snapped. And when the

Despite all of these differences between

team traveled to Lincoln to face

Iowa and teams who compete for titles

off with the Nebraska Corn-

every year, the Hawkeyes may be one of the

huskers, they banished the

best at finishing games. Iowa has out scored its

two worse streaks of them all:

opponents in the fourth quarter, by a combined score

a 14-game Big 12 road losing

of 114-62. That resilience has gotten a lot of praise for

the Hawkeyes as well as their quarterback Ricky Stan-

zi, who prompted ESPN to nickname the fourth quarter

streak, and won for the first Provided/Pat Ward

“Stanzi-time” after his bounce back performance against

time in Lincoln since 1977. If teams were ranked by passion

and commitment, the Iowa State

Indiana.

Cyclones would be a top 10 team.

Bowl Possibilities

The effort is there. Every single player has

A ten win Iowa team will be a strong candidate for an

bought into Rhoad’s game plan. The talent will

at-large BCS berth, most likely the Fiesta Bowl on Jan. 4

come, and so will the much-deserved national attention.

A nine win team would most likely be playing in the Capi-

If the Cyclones beat Missouri in Columbia, Iowa State will

Outback Bowl against the SEC in Tampa Bay on Jan. 1,

end up with six wins, they will have the opportunity to

Bowl Possibilities

due to the strong Hawkeye following in the Phoenix area.

tol One Bowl against the SEC on Jan. 1 in Orlando or the

play in either the Independence or Insight Bowl. If they

the bowl the Hawkeyes beat South Carolina by a score of

play in either the GMAC, Humanitarian, New Mexico, or

31-10 last year.

Eaglebank bowl.

Provided/Iowa State Daily

layout Kallen Kramer

sports

Nov 09

Divers podium at state

p19

(Know the Lingo )

words & layout Matt Knoedel

Pike

Hundreds of fans were watching, cheer-

The pike position is performed with the knees straight and the body bent at the waist.

ing for their school as the best divers in the state competed for the title in Marshalltown.

Junior Dahlia Gordon and senior Taylor Erwine were ranked first and second, respectively, going into the meet. The competition

Tuck

Both the hips and knees are flexed so that the body is in a ball.

was fierce and it was bound to be a close competition.

There was excitement in the air and

where most other competitors would be nervous, Gordon ignored the pressure.

Straight

“I wasn’t as nervous as other meets,”

Gordon said, “The more relaxed I am the

Provided/Gordon family

better I perform.”

Gordon executed her dives to the best

Provided/Gordon family

of her ability, knowing that each dive could

Junior Dahlia Gordon doing a reverse pike at a home diving meet.

the lead for most of the meet. Before her

meet in third place.

earned her space on the podium in fourth.

routine of visualizing the dive perfectly and

Erwine. Because she is a senior, it would

more sad that the season was over,” Erwine

make or break the competition. She was in second to last dive she went through her imagining positive scores. The dive was a

somersault with two twists. She stood on

the springboard and saw her name in the number one spot on the scoreboard. Finally, she leaped from the board, completed the dive, but overshot the landing.

“I knew I messed up the second I hit the

water,” Gordon said. The dive cost her the

lead as she scored lower than she wanted.

With only one dive left, Gordon was not

able to make up the deficit and ended the

OVERTIME Yet another quality column by Scott Monroe

The meet was a different experience for

be her last meet, and was ranked first for

most of the season. She felt she had just that much more pressure on her.

“This was the only time I was really ner-

vous,” Erwine said. “It was my last meet so I wanted to do well.”

Through her routine, she kept the com-

petition close. She earned the most points off of her back double flip which kept her in the competition, and moved her into second

place. Although by the end of the meet, she

“I wasn’t upset about my place, I was

said.

The body is fully extended, with no flexation at the hips or knees.

working harder on her 1-meter dives over the summer for next year.

Erwine decided she will not be compet-

ing in collegiate level diving next year

Both divers appreciated the crowd that

In preparation for the state meet, they

came to support them at the state meet in

each dive several times. In the weeks lead-

as well as a few of their close friends and

had regular practice where they repeated

ing up to the meet, Gordon put extra effort into her reverse one-and-a-half dive while

Marshalltown. The swim team was there, relatives.

“It helps to have Johnston fans there to

Erwine attempted to improve her double

cheer you on,” Gordon said.

camps over the summer to improve their

friends came, as well as my grandparents,”

reverse. In addition, both went to various skills.

Gordon plans on diving in college and

Erwine agrees. “A bunch of my close

Erwine said, “It’s nice to have people to cheer you on.

Before I begin this column, I want to

post-game news conference to discuss a

a human mistake. Not possible.

the most hypocritical piece of literature

a ref talk is when he is getting absolutely

there, get real. These guys do what they

I noticed this while watching the Major

they love the game. Probably more than we

forewarn all readers: This is quite possibly I have ever written. I have spent years

bashing on referee calls and referring to officiating crews as “incompetent thieves

with the sole intention of ruining athlete’s

lives.” And yet, I am about to explain not only why referees possess the hardest job on the planet, but why they do not deserve

the criticism they receive. May my soul burn in hell for an eternity.

I

always

wondered

why

someone

would be so stupid as to pursue a job as a sports official. The job description includes constant criticism, no respect, and

absolutely no upside whatsoever. When

was the last time a zebra showed up at a

good call? The only time I’ve ever heard grilled with questions about a missed call.

League Baseball playoffs. It seemed like

there was an average of three or four missed calls a game, and every single time

the umpire was criticized after the fact. For the first time in my life, I felt bad for them.

Let’s use some common sense here.

What are the chances that an umpire

intentionally calls a fair-ball foul? I’m sure

there’s a huge conspiracy between MLB umps, and they want to screw teams over

All the umpire and referee haters out

do for one reason, and one reason only:

do. They have such a passion for the sport they officiate and intentionally endure the criticism and lack of respect. When a star

player air balls a shot, it is not automatically a foul. If the ref thought that there was little to no contact, he will leave the play as a no-

call. Not because he hates the player, but

because he honestly believes he made the right decision.

As for all the obscenities, cut them out.

for the heck of it. Yeah, that must be it. How

Those guys are out there trying as hard as

mistake? There is absolutely no way it was

and fair. Let them do their jobs.

else could a guy make such an obvious

they can to make sure the game is clean

backpage

Nov 09

awkward Dating Situations

p20

words & layout Andy Halterman

There is always a chance that a date may go wrong. Dates are often infamous for being plagued by awk-

ward silences and situations, and they are completely unavoidable at times. This can be caused either due to running into the wrong person at the wrong time when you are on a date, to having embarassing friends

showing up at the same place where your date is, or potentially the worst thing possible, parents. These are just a few examples of the possibly catastrophic things that can happen on a date to absolutely ruin your otherwise perfect night out.

Awkward moments are not neccasarily a bad thing though. They can help establish what works and what

does not work, a pretty essential thing to learn wherever you go. As bad as awkward moments may be, they

are still good learning experiences, and just a part of life. So do not be afraid of them, just learn from them and how to deal with them so that you know what to avoid next time. These are things that cant be told, but have to be experienced to learn from.

Personal Experiences ì

(My girlfriend and I) had just gotten out of a movie and I was waiting with her until her parents came to pick her up. She said she saw her parents car so I walked her out there and she gets into the car. Well it wasn’t her parents’ car, and she just sat in there for a couple of

î

seconds until she realized it wasn’t her parents.

Josh De Lanoit ‘11

ì

I was out on a date with a guy and when he leaned in to kiss me I ac-

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cidently sneezed.

Michelle Brooker ‘10

ì Ian Dunshee ‘12

My date and I were going out to see Sweeney Todd and got kicked out, so instead of seeing the movie we decided to hang out at American for an hour and a half.

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What To And What Not To

1. Eat the food, do not 1. Chivalry may 1.Be say you are full after two bites be dead, but politeness is not comfortable, there is a differ2. Do not be afraid to start a conversation.

2. Do not text when you are eating out ence between confidence and cockiness guys are just as nervous as you are with your date, you will come off as a tool 2. Do not be fake in the beginning, it will ruin the rela3. Try to go to a place where you know you will 3. Keep your head and eyes up. You know tionship later both be comfortable what I mean 3. Try to find common ground before starting a conversation 4. Do not worry about dressing up too much, fancy 4. Do not force trying to be funny, you will not 4. Be natural, do not try to be like anything you are not does not always impress come off as being funny 5. Be complimentary, just do not overdo it 5. Try not to gossip, guy’s will not find it as interesting as you

BOYS

GIRLS