Spectator Issue 5 -- Nov. 23

SPECTATOR

The

Western Nebraska Community College

Nov. 24, 2012

Volume 59, Issue 5

ENTERTAINMENT: Green bean casserole is a hit during the holidays, pg. 4 SPORTS: Hiking trip was a memorable experience, pg. 5 BACKPAGE: The country Turkey features plenty of history, pg. 8

Student SPOTLIGHT: Henry Herrera

WNCC’s Foster creating community ties College admissions director makes smooth transition to working, living in the Nebraska Panhandle

BY ALEXANDRIA MOREE Spectator Reporter

Photo by Alexandria Moree/Spectator

A smiling, bubbly Gretchen Foster quickly mentioned Buffalo, Brooklyn, Long Island, and Tampa as a few of the cities that she once called home.

Moving to any new city presents challenges and forces people to not only step outside of their comfort zone but also create an entirely new one. Foster, the admissions director at Western Nebraska Community College, has spent the last year building and developing a niche for herself and her husband, Cory, in the small town of Scottsbluff.

Gretchen Foster sits at her desk at WNCC. She does everything she can to help her students reach their full potential.

See Foster, page 3

COVER STORY

Courtesy Photo

Henry Herrera, who is from Ecuador, wants to learn as much as he can at WNCC to help him “change the youth of my country for the better.”

BY ABNER PAZANO Spectator Reporter For WNCC international student Henry Herrera, coming into a new country to study hasn’t been easy for him; however, he enjoys learning about the culture and meeting new people here, and he wants to use what he’s learned in America when he goes back to Quito, Ecuador.

Q: How long have you been living here?

A: Four months.

Q: Are you a native English speaker?

What other languages do you speak?

A: No, Spanish is my first language, and English is my second one.

Q: How different is life here compared to Quito?

A: One thing that is different is the means of transportation. In my country, we have a lot of public transportation to get to places. You could get a taxi or a bus. You don’t really need to have a car to move around the city. Another big difference is the weather. The temperature stays the same [in Quito] throughout the year. It is not windy like here in Nebraska, and we do not have tornadoes. The people here are really nice; they are always helping you and [encouraging] you to move forward. A huge difference is the size of the city. Quito is a big city. It will take you about an hour or an hour and a half to cross from one side of the city to the other one. Down there in Quito we have a good deal of attractions and places the tourists can go visit, such as the historic center that was formed by the Spanish colony. Also, people can go visit the “mitad del mundo” (middle of the world city). This is the city that lies on the equator.

See Henry, page 2

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A Season to Remember WNCC’s volleyball team receives the runnerup trophy after falling to CSI on Saturday during the championship match of the NJCAA National Tournament at West Plains, Mo. Spectator Photo

Cougar volleyball team end season with 40-3 record, runner-up finish at the national tourney

BY HEIDI HANCOCK Spectator Reporter The WNCC volleyball team ended its season with a runner-up finish Nov. 15-17 in the NJCAA National Tournament in West Plains, Mo. And while the Cougars didn’t come home with what they really wanted – a first-place finish – they did perform remarkably well at nationals and ended the year with an impressive 40-3 record.

WNCC sophomore Taylor VanderWerff said, “Overall, I think the season went really well. We have improved so much and have come together to play really well.”

The Cougars connected well with one another both on and off the court, and that had a lot to do with the team’s success, VanderWerff said.

“The chemistry on the team is so strong,” VanderWerff said. “We all love each other so much, and I think that is really what kept us together and pushed us to improve throughout the season.”

She added, “We were playing for each other

and not just for our own individual glory.”

The Cougar women gave their best effort in every game they played this year, including at nationals. After rolling past Wallace State-Hanceville (Ala.) in the national tournament opener Thursday morning (25-19, 25-19, 25-11), WNCC downed North Idaho College in the second round Thursday evening (26-24, 23-25, 25-16, 25-21). WNCC then defeated Iowa Western Community College in the semifinals on Friday (34-32, 20-25, 25-19, 25-18). In the title match Saturday night, the Cougars continued to play with lots of determination, but it wasn’t enough as the College of Southern Idaho prevailed in three games (25-20, 25-20, 25-21).

“Our strongest point was probably the two games before the finals. I think that was really our two best games that we played all season,” VanderWerff said. “Our energy was so high. We were just Spectator Photo unstoppable.”

Luiza Martins passes the ball The wins against North Idaho and Iowa Westduring WNCC’s match against ern avenged the only losses the Cougars suffered North Idaho at the national See Volleyball, page 3 tournament.

WNCC promoting strong leadership skills New honor society offers students guidance for future success

BY JOY ANITEYE Spectator Reporter The National Society of Leadership and Success, Sigma Alpha Pi, is now part of WNCC’s campus organizations.

The NSLS, which is on

more than 300 campuses in the United States, was brought to WNCC by Vice President of Student Services Sue Yowel.

“The organization was set up to give students an outlet to leadership,” said Mario Chavez, advisor of the NSLS at WNCC. “We really want to hone in with leadership, and we didn’t have a group that was specifically focused on leadership. Bringing this in will help students fulfill their goals.”

The NSLS differentiates itself from other societies on campus in that there is a great focus on leadership rather than on students’ grade-point averages.

“Our philosophy is that we can’t put a GPA on leadership” Chavez said. “Leadership is something that everybody is born with. GPA, success, and things like that will follow leadership.”

The National Society of

Leadership and Success’ main aim is to promote leadership among WNCC students; it strives to help students develop ideas and set goals so they can contribute on the college campus as well as experience more success in their careers.

Because of the absence of an executive board in the National Society of Leadership and Success’ first year at WNCC, the

See NHS, page 2

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News

CAT

Students Scout Wilson

Nov. 24, 2012 — Page 2

Facebook helps WNCC students stay connected with friends, family WNCC students can use Facebook to communicate with one another about class projects or homework

BY JOHN BAHR Spectator Reporter

Scottsbluff, Neb. Major: Biology

Honors/awards/ activities: Outstanding Student of the Year in science; National Honor Society; PTK; vice president of the Math and Science Club; research experience for undergraduate program; internship at Delaware State University, sponsored by the National Science Foundation. “I focused on molecular biology. It was nine weeks long. I learned about the researching process, and at the end we presented our own project and poster at a final symposium. [Also], I worked at the UNL Panhandle Research and Extension Center for three years with the dry bean-breeding department. In addition, I also educated the public about the research.”

Favorite band/singer: The Grateful Dead; Pink Floyd

Favorite quotes: “Dream the impossible dream” by Terence McKenna.

Favorite TV show: “Once Upon a Time”

Who is your role model?: “I’m my own role model because I put a lot of pressure on myself to do what I want to. I believe it is my responsibility to take my education on my own hands, but is just self determination that leads you one way or the other. I motivate myself to achieve the goals that I want.”

By Abner Pizano, Spectator Reporter

With Facebook approaching 1 billion people, WNCC students accessing the website are as common as wheat fields in the Panhandle of Nebraska.

One of the main reasons students sign up for Facebook is to keep in contact with friends and family.

Jennifer Cook, a WNCC nursing student, said, “I signed up on Facebook about four years ago to keep in touch with my family. I like putting pictures of my family on my Facebook page and reading the comments people leave.”

Facebook users can communicate on the website in a variety of ways. They can

Scottsbluff, Neb. Major: studies

General

Honors/awards/ activities: National Society of Leadership and Success; Sigma Pi member; RA; church choir at First United Methodist Church; collegiate choir; varsity vocalize; Quintessence Favorite band/singer: Dave Mathews band Favorite movie: “Ratatouille” Favorite TV show: “Adventure Time” Who is your role model?: “My mom because she has had the most influence in me being the person I am today.”

If you were a super hero, what power would you like to have?: “Fly” What’s the craziest or hardest thing you have ever done?: “Working three jobs at the same time and [in] different towns.”

If you had one piece of advice to share with everyone, what would it be?: “Forgive and forget.”

By Abner Pizano, Spectator Reporter

Facebook has connected millions of family members, classmates, friends, and others.

All it takes to get started on Facebook is an e-mail address and a password. Once an account is set up, users can start typing people’s names into the search engine.

When users find a person they want to add, they just click the “add friend” button.

In addition, when a person sets up a Facebook page, he or she can add WNCC to the work and education category on the “about me” page. This allows viewers to see that the person went to WNCC. It also allows WNCC students to contact each other easier.

For example, Facebook makes it easy for WNCC students to communicate with one another about homework or class projects.

If students have a question about an assignment, all they have to do is send a quick message to one of their Facebook friend’s inbox.

While Facebook can be quite useful for a variety of reasons, many people have found that using Facebook can take up a lot of their time.

“I started to think about how much I was on Facebook, and I think it might be a little too much,” Cook said.

Kalb, meanwhile, tries to limit her time on the website, allowing for up to a half hour each day.

ticipate in a three-hour Leadership Training Day, which was scheduled for Nov. 18.

Students are also required to attend events led by well-known speakers from across the nation. Three of the six speaking events are mandatory; however, students are encouraged to attend all of the speaking events that are held throughout the school year. The motivational speeches are broadcast live online exclusively for society members, who sometimes have an opportunity to send in questions to the speaker.

A glance at the official webpage of the society shows that speakers from various fields, such as a TV celebrity or a sociologist, are chosen to lead these events. The first speaker of the fall semester at WNCC was Vernice Armour, the first African American female pilot of the United States Air Force.

“She was great — very inspirational,” Chavez said.

The fourth and final step to induction is the key to leadership skill development, Chavez said. Students engage in three Success Networking Team Meetings with their peers to work on certain projects. Chavez, along with co-advisor Molly Bonuchi, grade these projects, and the grades determine which students earn induction.

“Once they’re inducted, they are lifelong members of the National Honor Society for Leadership and Success and certified leaders. They are then able to use that for resume building, scholarship applications — whatever they decide to use their leadership training for,” Chavez said. “Along with that, they will also be recognized at graduation.”

NSLS members benefit in many ways, such as having access to an exclusive job bank, a scholarship program, personalized letters of recommendation, and personal success coaching.

Q: What is the strangest/funniest experience you’ve had here?

A: I had a scary experience. One day I was walking by the Monument, and it was kind of windy. All the sudden, all this dust covers the whole place, so I ran as fast as I could to get to the house and hide myself in the basement. I was really scared because those things do not happen in Ecuador. I thought we were going to have a tornado.

Q: What are your hobbies?

A: In my free time I like to go to church, get together with my friends, and drink coffee.

We talk about my country and their country (USA). I like to go on bike rides or go out for a run.

NHS Continued from page 1 college administration was able to set its own criteria for selecting students. A large number of students was given the opportunity to join the society, and 135 students accepted their invitations this year. These students are “pending” members who will undergo a four-step process to induction.

“We did invite a large number of students, but there is some work that goes along with being in the national honor society. They have to complete the steps and be in good academic standing when they complete the program,” Chavez said.

Two orientation meetings, which is the first step to induction, have already been held at WNCC. Students then had to par-

Henry Continued from page 1

Simonne Spurgeon

type messages into a text box called instant messaging, or they can download a program that allows them to talk via video chat. If a person isn’t “online” to chat, a message will be sent to one’s inbox, resembling email. For something as simple as wishing someone a happy birthday, a Facebook user might post a greeting on his or her friend’s wall.

Allison Kalb, another WNCC student, said she’s been a Facebook user for four years. She originally signed up to keep in contact with family members overseas, but now uses the website for other reasons, too.

With the popularity of smart phones continuing to increase, many people have access to Facebook wherever they go. This is an advantage for those who want to upload photos and create wall posts quickly.

Tiffany Stettner, a WNCC nursing student, also uses Facebook to keep in touch with her friends and family. Using her cell phone, she said she usually is on Facebook about five or six hours a day. She likes being able to express herself by posting pictures and her thoughts at any time.

According to Business Insider.com, Mark Zuckerberg founded Facebook in 2004 while he was attending Harvard. The website was originally called “thefacebook. com” and was an instant hit. Since then,

Q: What was the best part about moving here?

A: The best part about moving here to Nebraska is that I have a great opportunity to study and progress. Also, getting to know new people and getting to know the American culture has been the best thing about moving here.

Q: Was there anything that you didn’t like about moving here?

A: The worst thing about being here is that I miss my family. Culture shock is also one of the worst things because I came from a totally different place. Also, I miss the nature that Ecuador has.

Q: What has impressed you the most about the USA? A: One thing that has impressed me the most is how organized people are, and how people obey the law and do what the government says. In Ecuador, we have good laws, but the people do not respect them; they do whatever they want. People here in the U.S. are raised in a positive way.

Q: What is your favorite American dish?

A: The sandwich with buffalo meat that I ate when I visited South Dakota. That’s the best American dish that I have had so far.

Q: If you could tell Americans one thing about your culture, what would it be?

A: I would tell them that our way to greet people is different. When you meet somebody for the first time, you give that other person a hug and a kiss on the cheek. Another thing is that in the month of February we have a carnival in which you can play with fruits, water, and flowers. You can chase another person to get them wet. We also have native dances.

Q: How is school different in your home country?

A: There is a big difference because you have to choose your career [in] your fourth year of college, and here they prepare you the first two years, so you will have an idea of what you like and what you want to be.

Here, they teach you all the basics, and there are a lot of resources that you can use for help, so you won’t fail your classes. We don’t have that in Ecuador.

theSpectator

2012-13 Staff Members

Western Nebraska Community College

Katie Peterson, Reporter Alexandria Moree, Reporter Abner P.izano, Reporter Heidi Hancock, Reporter Danielle Hearn, Reporter Johnny Escamilla, Reporter Joy Aniteye, Reporter John Bahr, Reporter Kayla Romey, Layout

Contact the newspaper at: The Spectator WNCC 1601 E. 27th street Scottsbluff, Nebraska 69361 Phone: (308) 635-6058 Email: spectator@wncc.edu

Mark Rein, Production Jeff Fielder, Advisor

Q: What are your plans for the future?

A: My plans are to graduate from college and go back to Ecuador to work as a teacher so I can change the youth of my country for the better.

Photo by Abner Pizano/Spectator

Letter to the Editor Policy thespectator the spectator encourages reader input about the articles it publishes. Any reader may submit a letter to the editor. All letters to the editor submissions must include the author’s name and hometown.

Phone numbers must also be included for verification purposes. Letters and columns may be edited for space limitations, style, grammar and libelous content. The letters must contain around 50 words and be typed. Letters can be sent or e-mailed to spectator@wncc.net.

The opinions in the thespectator spectator are those of the newspaper staff and do not reflect the opinion or scrutiny of WNCC, the administration, board of governors, staff or student government. Unsigned editorials reflect the opinions of the editorial board.

Signed columns reflect the opinion of the author.

News

Nov. 24, 2012 — Page 3

Your

Students express their feelings about election

Voice

One question, many answers!

If you could trade places with anyone in the world, whom would it be?

Why? “If I could trade places with anyone in the world, I would trade with my grandpa. He taught me a lot of stuff while he was alive, and I really look up to him and miss him a lot. He was my role model growing up. I wanted to be just like him.”

— Hailee Mecham, Spanish Fork, Utah “Johnny Bench because he was the greatest baseball catcher that ever lived.”

— Osvaldo Gonzalez, Miami, Fla.

“Yahosh [Bonner] so I could drag Mallacai around because he is a very cute baby.”

— Donny Vonny, Lingle, Wyo. “Travis Patrana because he gets to have fun for a living” — Chance Giles, Halsey, Neb.

“Tim Tebow so I can be great and win a Super Bowl.”

— Weston Louth, Lingle, Wyo.

“Yahosh, just because.”

— Landon Bowman, Alliance, Neb.

“I would trade places with Gritt Ryder because she’s been around the world, and she’s so awesome.

And also because I’m her number one fan.”

— Jessica Aratani, Morrill, Neb.

— Compiled by Danielle Hearn

Like it or not, Barack Obama was reelected as President of the United States. And like it or not, Mitt Romney lost the election.

So how do students walking the hallways at WNCC feel about it? More young people (that’s us!) voted in the last two elections than they had in a long time, which puts this question even more on the spot: What were students’ feelings coming out of the election? Also, what do young people say about what’s motivating them to vote, and what’s compelling young people to vote in the way they are?

I recently asked a number of students for their thoughts about the election, and surprisingly, their reactions were split—not in two ways, but in three. (To encourage more students to voice their opinions to me, I told the students that they didn’t have to give me their names). Of course, some people were jubilant about how this year’s election turned out while others were disturbed – and a greater third were apathetic, indifferent or even cynical about the whole thing.

“I really have no feelings toward the election. I’m not mad about anything or against anything. Just whatever, I guess,” one student said.

“I wasn’t happy with the election.

I think they’re both horrible candidates,” another student said.

Here was another student re-

Volleyball

sponse: “I think the country probably chose the lesser of the two evils. Glad the election is over. I’m not sure if I’m really comfortable with either one of them being our president.”

Some students said they were too busy with college life to form enough of an opinion about the candidates to feel comfortable voting. But then one of those students brought up what’s greatly characterized the election: division. “… I feel that people should lighten up. It’s gotten really, really … violent … and hectic, and I mean … [just] everyone’s opinions … It’s horrible … and I prefer not to talk about it [because of that].”

Some students, on the other hand, were refreshingly full of energy and motivated by Obama’s human message.

“I think that he focuses on people’s rights. I mean, budgeting and money is important, but I think people come first. So, that’s kind of what’s important to me. I like to see a lot more focus on ‘the person’ and not necessarily ‘the profit.’ I voted for him because he spoke true to my beliefs – like looking at Romney and his view on women …

really went against how I feel.”

Here was another comment: “Personally, I love what happened with the election. I feel that another four years is probably a good thing to see how he’ll [really] do in office. I know a lot of people are kind of upset because everything hasn’t gone the way he said it was going to go. But it takes four [more] years after a president’s [first] term to see how [he’ll really do].”

Meanwhile, some disturbed students feel like it’s going to be nothing but downhill from here.

One concerned student said, “Pretty disappointed, pretty worried, especially [considering] all the [voter fraud] and how much money President Obama wants to spend. It doesn’t look like we’re going to go anywhere, especially not out of this economic hole that we were already in in the first place … What bothers me the most is his allowance of illegal immigrants to get status in the country. Everybody had to come over legally … [and] everybody’s getting benefits they don’t need. I hate to see this country go down like it is, and I really think the next four years are going to be tougher than the previous four, and until we get somebody else in there, I feel that this country is going to go nowhere but down. I served this country and the people who are in it, but I didn’t serve it for Obama.”

all season. Both those losses came in the first weekend of the season.

In the championship game, the Cougars lost to a red-hot Southern Idaho team, which WNCC beat back on Aug. 31. CSI finished the season at 33-1 with its only defeat coming to WNCC. Two WNCC players made the NJCAA all-tournament team in Danika Youngblood and Luiza Martins.

Although WNCC will graduate some key players off this year’s team, VanderWerff said next year’s group can continue the Cougars’ tradition of success – as long as they keep working hard.

“The advice I would give to the incoming freshmen would be to play with everything you’ve got at all times,” she said. “This is a oncein-a lifetime opportunity for some of them, and everything it takes to be able to get to nationals is worth it.”

VanderWerff said she’ll never forget her experience as a WNCC volleyball player.

“To be able to say that I was a part of one of the best programs and teams in the country is not something to be taken for granted,” she said.

the Presbyterian Church. I know I have six activities.”

With all of these activities in her arsenal, she said her transition to such a small community has not been too overwhelming.

“There’s not much traffic to deal with,” Foster said happily when asked about some of the pros of living in a smaller community.

Additionally, Foster said people in Scottsbluff have been incredibly friendly and welcoming to her and her husband. On the other side of the coin, Foster did

admit that the train horn blaring through town in the wee hours of the morning took some getting used to, as did incessant wind that is ever present in western Nebraska.

WNCC marks the first community college that Foster has worked at, and she didn’t hesitate to say “I absolutely love it” when asked how she liked working at a smaller venue.

“There is wonderful interdepartmental collaboration here, and the goal and focus is all about the students,” Foster said about a

few things that have impressed her about WNCC. As a newer employee at WNCC, Foster has brought with her a breath of fresh air, most noticeably displayed on the white board above her desk in three simple sentences: What is our purpose? What problem are we trying to solve? What are we trying to accomplish?

“I learned that from a CEO in Tampa when I was working in corporate America,” explained Foster. “I ask myself those questions in everything I do.”

Commentary

By Johnny ‘Krr’ej’ Escamilla

Continued from page 1

Foster Continued from page 1 Moving to the Panhandle of Nebraska just over a year ago, Foster, originally from New York, said that “the very first thing I did was go to the library and get a library card.”

“I went [to the library] almost every day and developed a relationship with the librarians; they were the first people I really knew here,” she said.

Library card in hand, Foster wasted no time diving head first into the social scene that Scottsbluff has to offer. Now a board member of the Community Action Partnership of Western Nebraska Foundation, Foster has made and continues to make it a priority to be involved in the community.

“I firmly believe that each person has a responsibility to contribute to the community in some way to give something back,” she said.

Foster continued adding to her resume of community involvement by joining the Kiwanis Club.

“Darla Heggem and Dave Kholer invited me to join the Scottsbluff Noon Kiwanis Chapter,” she said.

Both involved with WNCC, Kohler and Heggem helped Foster add yet another social group to her ever growing circle of friends in Scottsbluff.

“The faculty here [at WNCC] really embraced me and made me feel welcome,” Foster said of her coworkers.

Foster is also very involved in the WNCC community as co-advisor for the Circle K student organization and a dorm parent to a volleyball player. Counting to five and briefly pausing, Foster added, “I also play the hand bells at

Upcoming Events ‘A Christmas Carol’

Friday, Dec. 7, & Sat., Dec. 8 — 7 p.m. @ Midwest Theater Sunday, Dec. 9 — 2 p.m. @ Midwest Theater Free and open to the public. The play is WNCC’s Christmas gift to the community. There will also be school performances on Dec. 6 and Dec. 7, and there will be a performance in Alliance on Dec. 15.

Entertainment 1. What’s the most common first name in the world?

2. What do Eskimos use to keep food from freezing?

3. How many dimples are in a golf ball?

4. Who invented scissors?

5. What was the first U.S. CD ever pressed?

6. What is the color of lobster blood?

7. What is a group of toads called?

8. How many muscles does a cat’s ear have?

9. Who had the longest known case of hiccups?

10.What is the only insect that can turn its head 360 degrees?

Source: www.triviachamp. com/Weird-Trivia.-Facts.php

Nov. 24, 2012 — Page 4

‘Pitch Perfect’ combines sweet tunes with lots of laughter W hen I saw the previews for “Pitch Perfect,” I immediately knew that I had to see this movie. Fortunately, the trailers didn’t ruin the comedy by giving away the best scenes. The movie just has so much more to offer.

“Pitch Perfect,” a musical comedy about collegiate a cappella rivalry, premiered in theatres this fall. Yes, it is a musical movie, but it’s not like “Glee.” The story revolves around Beca, portrayed by Anna Kendrick, known from previous roles in “Up in the Air” and “50/50.”

Beca, a college freshman, finds herself not fitting in at her new college, Barden University.

Barden University is known for its outstanding a cappella groups, the rivaling Treblemakers, an all-boy group, and the Bellas, the all-girls group. Beca, however, is an aspiring DJ who would rather put on some music in the clubs of Los Angeles

than take college classes or participate in extracurricular activities.

An incident at an important a cappella competition during the previous year, though, forces the Bellas to regroup. Beca, of course, ends up in the group.

She adds some much needed fresh air to the outdated ideas of the Bellas, and the a capJoy Aniteye pella madness begins.

Although the storyline focuses on Beca, all the other characters greatly contribute to the quality of the movie. From the members of the Bellas to the Treblemakers and the many familiar actors, every single character in the movie has something unique about him or

Movie Review: “Pitch Perfect”

her. There basically is a character for everyone. The abundance of likeable characters is actually what makes this movie so enjoyable and entertaining.

My absolute favorite character is Fat Amy, portrayed by the fabulous Rebel Wilson. Wilson, who starred in “Bridesmaids” and “What to Expect When You’re Expecting,” gets funnier and funnier with every movie. As Fat Amy, Wilson entertains with her humor and surprises with her talent in singing, rapping and dancing. Although just in a supporting role, she definitely steals the show with her hilarious and memorable one-liners.

On a musical note, the performances are great. You don’t have to be a big music fan to enjoy this movie, though. Nonetheless, there

are a variety of songs — songs from the 80s, 90s and 2000s with the newest hits and brilliant mashups.

Overall, the movie makes a clever balance between music and comedy.

You don’t eagerly wait for them to start singing at every second, but you also don’t get overwhelmed with all the music. It’s almost two hours of pure entertainment. I was laughing throughout the whole movie, as were all the other moviegoers.

“Pitch Perfect” simply hits every note: comedy (an overabundance of college humor), romance, and excellent musical performances. You can’t help but be infected by the energy of the movie. The songs will be stuck in your head.

“Pitch Perfect” is estimated to be released on DVD toward the beginning of next year.

Green bean casserole is a great addition to any meal, especially around Thanksgiving and Christmas

“

One of the very nicest things about life is the way we must regularly stop whatever it is we are doing and devote our attention to eating.” ~Luciano Pavarotti and William Wright, Pavarotti, “My Own Story This quote reminds me that it’s not only important to eat, but it’s also important to enjoy what we’re eating.

The most memorable smell you can experience comes during the fall.

The mixture of pumpkins and leaves fill the air with smiling faces and warm hearts. Although the days get colder, my face always gets brighter because of the upcoming holidays.

The holidays give me a time to be thankful for everything I have been through and everything that has made me, well, me. I get to be surrounded by my family and get to eat lots of food — my two favorite things

in the world.

Among my family are grandparents who can sit and smile at the huge family they have created: cousins playing pranks Katie and running Peterson around; cousins’ Food Column children running around trying to keep up with the older kids; parents trying to fit all the food onto the table; and my brother laughing at all the confusion going on in the small house.

Fortunately, the house, filled with many years of memories, holds together for this special day of thanks.

The dining room, connected to the

kitchen, is always off limits until the meal is ready. The rectangular table seats a limited number of people so an additional card table is set up as the “children’s table.” Chairs of many shapes and sizes are stuffed into every open space available.

The table is set with a variety of dishes, ranging from pumpkin pie to squash to turkey to my personal favorite, green bean casserole. The smell of the casserole fills my nose with warmth and hunger. It looks like a square piece of heaven, and the scoop lifted onto my plate gets my attention instantly.

Believe me, if you haven’t tried green bean casserole yet, you truly don’t know what you’re missing.

Every holiday meal should include this wonderful dish.

Don’t have a recipe? Try this one:

Ingredients 1. 1 can (10 3/4 ounces) Campbell’s® Condensed Cream of Mushroom Soup (Regular, 98% fat free or Healthy Request®) 2. 1/2 cup milk 3. 1 teaspoon soy sauce 4. Dash ground black pepper 5. 4 cups cooked cut green beans 6. 1 1/3 cups French’s® French Fried Onions Directions 1. Stir the soup, milk, soy sauce, black pepper, beans, and 2/3 cup onions in a 1 1/2-quart casserole dish.

2. Bake at 350°F for 25 minutes or until the bean mixture is hot and bubbling. Stir the bean mixture. Sprinkle with the remaining onions.

3. Bake for 5 minutes or until the onions are golden brown.

Source: www.campbellkitchen. com/Recipes/RecipeDetails. aspx?recipeID=24099.

Answers: 1. Muhammad; 2. Refrigerators; 3. 336 4. Leonardo da Vinci; 5. Bruce Springsteen’s “Born in the USA”; 6. Blue; 7. Knot; 8.

32; 9. Charles Osborne’s 69 years; 10. Praying Mantis

Sports If you’re going hiking in the winter, be prepared

INSIDE: WNCC volleyball player VanderWerff excelling on court, in classroom, page 6

Cougars off to hot start Strong defense helps WNCC women post impressive early-season victories

E

ven with all the sports that I have watched the last couple years, I had an experience recently that gave me a new perspective on sports.

A few weeks ago I went on a trip to Rocky Mountain National Park with several members of my family. When we left Scottsbluff, the sun was shining.

When we got to Estes Park, snow was coming down lightly.

Regardless of the snow, wind or cold temperatures, we were committed to our family hike.

Not fully prepared for what we were about to encounter, we set out to hike around Bear Heidi Lake and up to Alberta Falls.

Hancock Hiking Commentary would not have been a great idea had it been June, but we decided to do this in late October — yes, right after the first major snowfall in the Rocky Mountains. It became apparent very quickly that we were not dressed right for the occasion.

We were convinced we were the only crazy people who would go out on such a cold day to hike, but that was not the case. There were quite a few groups that were obviously out for more than a leisurely hike. Unlike us, however, the other people were well equipped to handle the cold and snow that we struggled with during the whole excursion.

Their equipment varied depending on the group, but they were all prepared for the wilderness and ready to take on the mountain.

When our hike was over, we spent some time thawing out, and then we decided that if we were going to do something like this ever again, we would have to be a little bit more prepared. I went online to see what I would need to have a little more fun on my next snowy hike. I went in my jeans and tennis shoes, and after about 20 minutes, I was cold to the bone. The hikers that passed us were concerned about our toes because we did not have boots on. The other hikers were wearing nifty snow pants and had walking sticks.

They had done their research, unlike us.

We asked a few of the other hikers what their best tips were for staying warm. The most common response was lightweight layers. The key, they said, was to wear many layers instead of one really heavy layer. Wool was also a recommendation. Wind protective gear is a great way to avoid getting cold while hiking. By wearing multiple layers, you are able to take layers off during times of extensive activity, and then put them back on as you get colder.

Whether we wanted to admit it or not, hiking is a very real sport that takes a lot of preparation. By showing up unprepared, we had put ourselves at risk, and we could have gotten hurt. We went as a large group and made sure we did not get separated; still, we risked getting too cold.

I now have a whole new respect for the avid hikers out there that do it just for fun. But I did a lot of research after our trip, and I now know what I will need the next time I decide to be adventurous.

Nov. 24, 2012

BY HEIDI HANCOCK Spectator Reporter

WNCC freshman Shalisa Moffit dribbles up the court during a game against the Nebraska All Stars on Saturday, Nov. 3. The Cougars won 88-29.

The WNCC Lady Cougars basketball team is off to a strong start this season.

WNCC rolled to an easy win over Casper College on Nov. 20 with a commanding 72-42 victory, lifting the Cougars’ season record to 8-0.

The Cougars gained momentum in the Casper win by capturing two impressive wins against Central Wyoming College and Miles Community College in the Central Wyoming Classic, where they combined on 15 3-pointers.

Playing as a unified team is just one of the reasons the Lady Cougars have accomplished so much so early in the season.

“We have had good practices, and everyone [has been] focused,” freshman guard Maurissa Ortega said. “There were a couple moments where we let down, but for the most part, we were all strong. We go deep into the bench, and they bring everything they have onto the court every single time.”

With only four sophomores, three returning, the Cougars

See Women, Page 6

Lending a helping hand

The WNCC men’s and women’s soccer teams helped the community on Monday, Nov. 19, by preparing and loading Operation Christmas Child presents at First Baptist Church in Scottsbluff. The groups’ goal was 3,100 boxes, and it surpassed that goal with 3,346 boxes. These boxes go to children in Brazil, Albania, Columbia, Haiti, Kenya, Niger, Rwanda, Suriname, Tongo, and Uganda. Pictured: (top) Clara Heimlich wraps a present while (below) Joey Rasnic, Harry Bueno, Jack Cutler, and Jonathan Ramirez Rodriguez load boxes to be shipped.

Yoanna Arellano, Brianna Baumann, Raquel Flores, and Anna Rinaldi prepare presents to be shipped for operation Christmas child.

Spectator photos

IN the HUDDLE: Charles Ward

BY DANIELLE HEARN Spectator Sports Reporter

Charles Ward is a red-shirt sophomore from Phoenix, Ariz. Ward currently is the second leading scorer on the team averaging around 20 points a game. The 6-foot-2 guard scored 37 points in a game against Sheridan College, where the Cougars lost in overtime 1-7-104. Ward then had 23 points in a big 82-76 win over Salt Lake Community College in the Region I8/9 Challenge in Casper, Wyo. The Cougars will next be in action on Nov. 27 against Casper College at Cougar Palace.

Q: How long have you played basketball?

A: Since I was five.

Q: So far, what’s your favorite thing about your team this year?

A: Team chemistry [even with] different people from different cultures.

Q: Most embarrassing moment?

A: Mouth guard falling out on a fast-break dunk.

Q: What is your favorite thing about basketball?

WNCC sophomore Charles Ward goes up for a shot in the Cougar Madness game on Monday, Oct. 1.

A: Just playing the game of basketball, I love it.

Q: If you could change into one person, whom would it be?

A: Denzel Washington

Q: What do you like best about yourself?

A: My drive and my ambition.

Q: Do you have a role model or someone you look up to? If so, who?

A: My mother.

Q: Favorite pro basketball team?

A: Miami Heat

Q: If you could live anywhere, where would it be?

A: Mars

Q: If you could change something about yourself, what would it be?

A: My height.

Q: Has being far away from home been hard for you?

A: Not at all.

Q: Do you plan on playing basketball after WNCC? A: Yes.

Q: Favorite part of dorm life?

A: Meeting new people.

Sports/ ports/N News Women

Cougars place 2nd at nationals

Continued from page 5 came into this season knowing they had a lot of work to do.

But after the first few weeks of the season, the Cougars couldn’t be much happier with where they’re at.

“As a team, we are gelling really well, I think,” Ortega said. “We get along off the court really well, and I think that helps on the court a lot.”

Ortega added, “We still have a lot of work to do, but with having 11 freshmen and only four coming back, it’s amazing how well we have come together and how well we can already read each other.”

Because of that, the Cougars figure to be one of the top teams in the region, if not the nation.

“We have really high hopes for this season,” Ortega said.

Ortega said WNCC’s stingy defense is a big reason the Cougars went into this past weekend’s games unbeaten.

“Our defense has been our strongest aspect to this point,” she said. “One game we created 36 turnovers, making our defense our strong point.”

She added, “Our defense is the main focus during practice, and [it’s showing]. Our defense right now is going to be our trademark.”

Offensively, WNCC has been piling up lots of points; however, Ortega said the Cougars know

MVC Most Valuable Cougar

Taylor VanderWerff

Nov. 24, 2012 — Page 6

WNCC freshman Maurissa Ortega goes up for a shot during a game against the Nebraska All Stars on Saturday, Nov. 3. they can get a lot better.

“We definitely have to work on our offense, but that will come,” she said. “With the games that we have had, we have been able to just really run, so we haven’t had to run our offense very much, so we are still working on that. Further into the season, we are going to get the hang of it, and we will have our defense and offense, and it will be hard for teams to stick with us.”

The WNCC volleyball team played tough at the NJCAA National Tournament, earning a runner-up performance. (above left) Kasey Lafitaga digs a ball before the Wallace State match. (above right) Priscila Mendes passes the ball during the North Idaho College game in the quarterfinals. (right) Tasha Meyer executes a pancake move to save the ball in the Iowa Western match.

L.U.N.A. Theater’s first show comes to a close Group that aims for ‘theater with a message’ looks to the future

BY JOHNNY “KRR’EJ” ESCAMILLA Spectator Reporter After WNCC graduate Jonni Campbell left campus, it was only a matter of time before she got back into doing what she loves: theater.

Formerly president of WNCC’s Theater Club, she is the founder of Scottsbluff ’s new theatre company, L.U.N.A. (Love, Understanding, Nurturing and Awareness).

While it might be a small heart, the theater community in Scottsbluff is beating one as founder Jonni had observed.

“There’s a lot of interest here in theater,” she said.

“I think every community should have its own company like LUNA,” said actor Olivia Paddack.

“Actually, when I heard of LUNA, I never heard of anything like it before,” co-star Amber Red Bear added.

What is LUNA? According to its founder, the focus of LUNA is to not only put on a production for the community to enjoy, but to use it as a vehicle for sending a message. “Theater with a message” was thrown around in the interviews a couple times.

“No matter what cause it may be … like this time it’s domestic violence and then later on down

A scene from Luna Theater Company’s first play “Poof ” that was held in October. the road it’ll be cancer or multiple sclerosis, lesbians and gays ...whatever the issue might be, that’s the goal,” Campbell explained.

The closing night of the first show was Oct. 25, and the turnout ‘[left] room to grow’ John Lee said, but the group was still able to raise $150 for the DOVES foundation, a nation-wide organization dedicated to helping victims of domestic abuse— the theme of its first production, “Poof!” The production is “A serious comedy in which an abuse husband spontaneously combusts,” said the flyer.

“It’s such a great story [that serves as] an awesome ice breaker for such a serious subject. Just to open people up, not to make fun of it.”

“People come to see a show, and they get their entertainment, but it’s not the only thing they’re paying for. They’re also helping people out at the same time. It’s good fun for a good cause.” “[This is] to show them something they weren’t expecting. It gets them thinking because

they hear about these issues, and they think that it happens elsewhere – that we don’t have these problems – when they’re right under our noses!” Campbell said. “Our shows are like holding up a mirror to our audiences that show them the reality that they live in.”

“I hope the message of this production will successfully reach our audience in telling them that the most important thing that any person must aspire to be in a relationship is the most tender and empathetic person in their partner’s life— but must realize that most of the relationships we start in life are ones that ‘just work,’ and many, sadly, aren’t meant to last as long as the ones we dream of. Take special care in choosing who you want to be with; always take care of yourself and learn that if you want to care for the loved ones you meet in life, you have to know when the relationship’s grown sour and when you must leave it and continue your search, no matter how different the next person may be. Who knows? The next person may be pure magic to you,” another volunteer said.

“As far as looking to the future, LUNA’s optimism shows. LUNA will get bigger and [more people] will understand where it’s coming from,” said Red Bear.

The impression the production left on its volunteers was equally visible.

“It’s made me stronger,” said Paddack, one of the actors.

“I think people should do this [kind of thing] every day... [That is] do something that makes the world a little better,” said actor Joseph Lee.

Cougar Scoreboard

Sport: Volleyball Grade: Sophomore Major: Athletic training

Dunk!

Position: Middle blocker

WNCC freshman Isaiah Castellaw goes for a dunk during the dunk competition in the Cougar Madness on Monday, Oct. 1.

Hobbies/Interests: “I like to read, I like to shop, and I like hanging out with my friends.”

Won 75-40 — Hastings J.V. Won 96-31 — Colo. Christian JV, 11/16-17 @ CWC Tourney Won 80-48 — Central Wyoming Won 68-43 — Miles C.C. Won 72-42 — Casper College 11/29-30, 12/1 @ Prep Tourney 12/6-8 Holiday Classic, home 12/11 @ Colo. Christian JV 1/7 @ NW Kansas Tech 1/8 @ Lamar C.C. 1/11 McCook C.C., home 1/18 Trinidad State J.C., home

1/19 Otero J.C., home 1/22 Eastern Wyoming, home 1/26 @ Casper College 1/19 @ Northeastern J.C. 2/8 Lamar C.C.. home 2/9 Northeastern J.C., home 2/15 @ Otero J.C. 2/16 @ Trinidad State J.C. 2/19 @ McCook C.C. 2/21 @ Eastern Wyoming 2/27 NW Kansas Tech, home 3/3-7 Region IX Tourney 3/18-23 National Tourney

Favorite movie: “Roman Holiday” Men’s Basketball Schedule Nickname: “T or Tay” What do you like best about WNCC?: “I like the community, the people, how close everybody is, and the support that we get from everybody — not just from the school. It’s nice.”

–By Heidi Hancock

11/2-3 @ Gillette Classic Won 98-78 — Gillette College Lost 104-107 OT — Sheridan Lost 49 - 102 — @ South Plains 11/16-17 @ Reg. 9/18 Challenge Lost 67-68 — Southern Idaho Won 82-76 — Salt Lake CC Won 96-81 — Western Wyoming 11/27 CasperCollege, home 11/30 @ Holiday Classic 12/1 @ Holiday Classic 12/7 NW Kansas Tech, home 12/14-15 @ Northwest Classic 1/7 @ NW Kansas Tech 1/8 @ Lamar C.C. 1/11 McCook C.C., home 1/18 Trinidad State J.C., home 1/19 Otero J.C., home 1/22 Eastern Wyoming, home

1/26 @ Casper 1/29 @ Northeastern J.C. 1/31 @ Laramie County 2/2 @ North Platte C.C. 2/8 Lamar C.C., home 2/9 Northeastern J.C., home 2/12 Laramie County, home 2/15 @ Otero J.C. 2/16 @ Trinidad State J.C. 2/19 @ McCook C.C. 2/21 @ Eastern Wyoming 2/23 North Platte C.C., home 3/2-6 @ Region IX Tourney 3/18-23 @ National Tourney

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Women’s Basketball Schedule

Scottsbluff North 308.632.9106 Gering 308.436.5066 Torrington 307.532.7063

Won 88-29 — Nebraska All-stars 11/8-10 @ Colby Classic Won 62-24 — Colby C.C. Won 58-41 — Colorado Northwestern

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Nov. 24, 2012 — Page 8

Serving up a real Turkish holiday O

ne of only six transcontinental countries, The Republic of Turkey happily resides on both Europe and Asia.

Western Nebraska Community College’s Idil Ozbayrak calls this immensely diverse country, informally known as Turkey, home. Specifically from Ankara, the capital of Turkey, Ozbayrak found her way to WNCC and the Panhandle of Nebraska on a basketball scholarship for the Lady Cougars.

Covering 780,000 square kilometers, roughly twice the size of California, Turkey boasts one of the most diverse cultures in the world, blending the Asian and European cultures into one country.

“You have to go Ankara,” states Ozbayrak, further explaining that her home city is a playground to those interested in Turkey’s history — both artistic and governmental.

Home to more than a dozen internationally acclaimed museums, including the Anatolian Civilizations Museum, Anitkabir (Ataturk’s Mausoleum), and the Temple of Augustus, Ankara and the ultra-modern Esenboğa International Airport (EIA) are the

International Country Spotlight: Turkey

By Alexandria Moree

perfect introduction to Turkey.

In operation since the mid 1950s and located a short 28 kilometers outside of Ankara, EIA contracts with more than 20 international airlines.

“I hang out in cafés with friends when I’m home,” explains Ozbayrak.

When asked what one would order in a café in Turkey, Ozbayrak quickly answered tea or Turkish coffee. Tea, a very important drink in most of Asia, is how the majority of Turks begin their

day; however, Turkish coffee, comparable to espresso, is also a morning favorite.

Most European countries are known for their impeccable public transportation system, and Turkey continues this standard with equally impressive subway systems, bus routes, and taxis.

“Cars are very expensive, gas costs a lot of money, and the taxes for cars are high,” said Ozbayrak, explaining why owning a car is a show of status or wealth in Turkey.

“Most everyone uses the subway and buses,” Ozbayrak continued, saying that the subway system and bus routes are all very manageable and easy to understand, even for someone who knows no Turkish.

While the vast majority of Turks are Muslim, Ozbayrak says that generally speaking Turkish people are not overwhelmingly religious people.

“It depends on what part of Turkey you are in; the east is more religious than the west,” said Ozbayrak, clarifying that while religion is important, there is not the stigma over Turkey that one would associate with a very religious-based country like Afghanistan or India.

Also contrasting about the different parts of Turkey is the form of currency accepted. While all of Turkey uses the Turkish Lira, the more accepting one to people and businesses is the Euro and occasionally even the Dollar.

Istanbul, the only city in the world located on two continents, is a melting pot of religious,

ethnic, and racial backgrounds.

Connecting Europe and Asia, the Bosphorus Bridge is one of the most famous bridges in the world.

Stretching over 1,500 meters, it is one of two bridges in Istanbul that connect the European side of the city with the Asian side.

Home to the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, commonly known as the Blue Mosque and the Grand Bazaar, one of the largest covered markets in the world, Istanbul is the major metropolis of Turkey.

“There are a lot of awesome clubs there,” Ozbayrak said about the social scene of Istanbul.

When asked about popular food served throughout Turkey, Ozbayrak said that Kebabs and Baklava are a few of the must-have Turkish dishes. Kebabs, skewered grilled meat and vegetables, are commonly sold by portable food carts since Kebabs are on-the-go food. Baklava, traditionally associated with Greece, is a sweet honey and nut filled pastry perfect for a sweet treat when concluding any Turkish meal.

The Kid Icarus franchise returns after twenty-two years

E

What is your favorite store?

What is the first music CD that you bought?

Phoebe Boots

or Zelda game. I loved it that much.

I want more than ever to give Uprising a perfect score, but one major thing weighs it down — the controls. Playing this game on the 3DS hurts — a lot. Having to use a finger to fire, two fingers to hold the system, a finger to hold it in your palm, a finger to swirl the analog-nub, and your right hand to use the stylus just doesn’t work. I don’t think I would have finished it if it weren’t for the small table-stand that comes with the game, which is greatly appreciated but defeats the purpose of it being a portable game.

Uprising is quite a comeback and achievement for a franchise that was long overdue in letting us play the lovable angel that we’ve missed greatly. And despite the controls, it’s still one of the most unforgettable games I’ve played in recent memory.

Grade: B

What are two things you can’t live without?

San Francisco

Ross

Friends and music

Tattoo

Juarez, Mexico

American Eagle

Music and food

Britney Spears

Japan

GAP

My kids and my phone

Boys II Men

Kevin Alison Hoagland Anderson

What do you think?

What is the farthest place you have traveled to?

into a custom weapon. There’s also a card battle game included with it; a fiercely competitive online four vs. four multiplayer mode; hundreds of trophies and concept art to collect; and the ability to play back its dozens of tracks. And this is a HAND-HELD game, people!

The 3D effect is used beautifully. The graphics are pixilated and blocky, but with how busy the game gets, it’s understandable that quality was sacrificed. But most noteworthy is the soundtrack — one of the best soundtracks Nintendo has ever made.

Fully orchestrated, climatic, and epic in a way that really gets the blood pumping.

What’s more is that throughout the whole game, Pit and the gods talk to each other. That serves to move the story along but was also what made Uprising one of the funniest (and best stories) Nintendo’s ever written. By the end of the story, I felt like I played a game equal in charm to any Mario

Lorena Herrera

very time there’s a new generation Half the game is spent flying through of video game systems, a number of the air, shooting your way through armies great franchises fall from grace or of air-born enemies while the other half is are never heard from again. In fact, almost spent scouting the ground on foot, taking all the franchises that defined gaming’s first on incredibly diverse baddies and eventful three decades are no longer with us today. bosses — game play that is very faithful to You never hear about Pong anymore— the first few games with the exception of or Pac-Man, Contra, Sonic the Hedgehog, there being no plat forming.

Spyro the Dragon, or Tomb Raider. Yes, six Uprising is a rush and is so fast paced big franchises from the last six generations that it’s hard to keep up with everything with their best days behind them. that’s happening on screen at once.

The industry is both cruel and I hardly remember any of the unique in this way. For every time enemies I fought, the battle items much more powerful machines are I used, or the order of environintroduced with different controls ments I shot my way through! You and features that capitalize on new feel scatterbrained while playing trends and innovations in gaming, the whole time, and you develop all the old franchises that came bea habit of just shooting or hacking fore are forced to either completely whatever moves and then some! reinvent themselves or die trying, But not necessarily in a bad Johnny overtaken by a generation of new way. Uprising really knows how Escamilla pioneering franchises. Indeed, it’s to keep it fun in a fast-paced way, Video Game a cruel industry that completely and it knows how to throw you Review reinvents itself every six years. off with new enemy behavior The last time the Kid Icarus franchise once in a while and with neat tricks and released a game was a whopping 22 years changes of pace in the environment. Just ago, and now the franchise about the little enough to keep you from playing the game kid-angel thinks it can transcend 22 years mindlessly. Types of enemies feel like they of gaming evolution and be one of the big number in the hundreds, and sometimes boys again. This is Kid Icarus: Uprising for while flying it feels like you’re constantly the Nintendo 3DS. making turns, flying upside-down, etc. It’s Set in a world of Greek mythology, Pit both exhilarating and dizzying!

— the game’s protagonist — is a lone boyYou can also use dozens of orbs, angel with an adorable gung-ho personality staffs, swords, or balls of energy with and a knack for getting himself stuck in the long-range and close-range attacks, with middle of disputes between the gods. the ability to combine any two together

Stuttgart, Germany

Victoria’s Secret

Money and food

Backstreet Boys

WNCC vocal music group shines in performance at Torrington

Rae-Lee Tresierra sings during a performance at Torrington High School on Oct. 31. The vocal music department toured four different high schools toward the end of October, including Leyton, Bridgeport, and Morrill.