November Pelladium

Well Resource Center

Find out what to do this fall

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PELLADIUM

THE PELLA COMMUNITY HIGH SCHOOL NEWS PUBLICATION

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Oh, the places we will go.

With so many options for college, how do we begin to decide where to further our education?

11.04.2014

Volume 28

Issue Two

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Current Food service worker honored in D.C.

Page Editor: Jack sytsma

With Veteran’s Day approaching, it is time to begin honoring and remembering those who fought for America in times of war. Food truck driver Delmer VanKooten took part in an Honor Flight to Washington D.C. to be honored and thanked for his service in the Korean War. he Eastern Iowa Honor Flight began Sept. 23 and was a ten hour long event. he veterans departed from Cedar Rapids at 7:00 A.M. and arrived at Washington D.C. at 10:05 a.m. Ninety veterans from either World War II or the Korean War were honored as well as VanKooten. “here were nine World War II veterans, and the rest of us were from the Korean War. here were 90 veterans total there. Each of us had guardians that watched us and treated us with respect,” said VanKooten.

On November of 1953, VanKooten was deployed to Korea to become a cook for the armed forces.

“I left the states from Seattle Washington on the U.S. Naval ship General Simon B. Buckner. After arriving in Korea, I was a cook and I remember getting up early with sub-zero temperatures,” said VanKooten.

Before the light, VanKooten signed up for this event a year prior in Oskaloosa.

He was accepted months later, received a letter with the details of the trip and began preparing for the day long trip out of state.

After arriving at the airport, VanKooten and the other veterans boarded their speciic buses and travelled to various memorials and cemeteries.

At the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier,

>>>Honor. Food truck driver Delmer VanKooten was lown to Washington D.C. Sept. 23. VanKooten accompanied 90 other veterans from World War II and the Korean War. “he trip was great, the tour guides were very knowledgable. We learned a lot of history on the trip,” said VanKooten.

11.04. 2014

VanKooten was able to witness the changing of the guard and see a wreath laying at the tomb.

“One of my favorite parts was the tomb of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. It was a tomb for a soldier who died in World War II. It was very interesting and touching to see, and we saw two soldiers marching so well that you could hear when they clipped heels,” said VanKooten.

Other memorials VanKooten and the other veterans saw include the World War II Memorial, a Korean War Memorial, the Marine Corps Memorial and the Battle of Iwo Jima Memorial. hey also took a tour of Washington D.C. and saw a women’s war memorial, which honored all the women who fought in wars.

“Before [the light], there was not as much respect and honor for us veterans. In the last several months, we began to see more and more people honoring us. People are starting to realize the sacriice the men went through in war, and the people are starting to show more respect for that,” said VanKooten.

VanKooten believes that in all of the trip, the respect shown by other people was the most memorable part. “he best part was how we were respected and honored by all the people there. Soldiers congratulated us, and once we got back from the light, there was a full line of people there shaking my hand and thanking me for my service. I would goagain, it was awesome, said VanKooten.

•Jack Sytsma (jsytsma@pelladium.com)

The Well helps those in need Students serve the community With over 18 church partners, 124 volunteers, and 3 part-time staf, the Well Resource Cenver is the largest interdenominational ministry in Pella. Its purpose is to “meet the physical, emotional, spiritual, and mental needs for the community.”

“It is a collaborative, community efort. We are here to be a point of contact for people and to help meet their needs, whether it is a job situation, transportation, or a family issue.

We often refer people to other resource agencies that we have partnered with,” said Executive Director Kathy Terlow.

Several people from diferent congregations started wondering if there was a better way for Christians in Pella to help those in need. What began as conversations turned into a reality in Jan. 2013 when the Well was established.

“It really began with churches wanting to help those in need in a more beneicial way. We thought, ‘Is there a better way to help? We should igure something out...’ Ten people from eight churches began to collaborate what this [helping the community and those in need] could look like. We began to dream together,” said Resource Center Director Ginny Krichau. he organization has continued to grow and thrive, recently taking charge of the hrift Shop, as well as beginning a ministry called Getting Ahead, where families meet for classes on Monday nights to examine the impact poverty has had on their lives and building skills and resources for the future. Getting Ahead focuses on creating and helping families create and meet their goals, as well as building relationships with the members’ “allies” who help the families create their goals.

“It’s really a group efort. here are great people and churches working together to better the community. God planted this ministry in all of our hearts, and we are all working together in this,” said Krichau.

Although the Well is focused on helping and changing the lives of those in need, both Terlow and Krichau agree that the volunteers and staf are impacted as well.

“As we serve and bring what we have - it’s mutual. We give to others, and they give back to us,” said Terlow.

Terlow and Krichau encourage the community to consider partnering with the Well, whether through prayer, volunteering, inancial support, spreading the word, or donating to the thrift store. In addition, they encourage anyone with a need, whether inancial, physical, emotional, or spiritual, to contact them.

“We don’t have the answers to everything. Life is hard; we know that. But we can support and give hope to others. If you need something, or know someone who does, this is a place to go,” said Krichau.

•Christina Gualtieri (cgualtieri@pelladium.com)

he Distinguished Service Program began this year to encourage students to spend time giving back to the community. Community member and parent Jackie Meyer met with guidence counselor Jessica Manning with an idea to encourage students to spend time volunteering.

“I have an older child who went to high school in Ohio, and in most schools out East, it is mandatory to have community service hours to graduate. I thought it was a great program, and it would be good to bring this program to our community,,” said Meyer.

Although this is not a requirement for graduation, students are being encouraged to participate in this program through the use of incentives. If a student logs 100 volunteer hours throughout the four years of high school, he or she will receive recognition at Senior Awards’ Night, and will receive a chord to wear on his or her graduation cap. For this recognition, 100 hours are required for freshman as well as the future classes yet to attend high school. For sophomores, juniors, and seniors, the decision was made to pro-rate the hours, meaning sophomores must volunteer 75 hours; juniors, 50; and seniors, 25. here are a few regulations involving the work that a student can for this program. First, students cannot receive money or credit for a class for the hours logged. Second, only local community service hours will be counted, meaning charity work on missions trips cannot be counted.

“We want students to give back to our community. he community has done a lot for students, which is why we decided to only count local volunteer hours. It was a tough decision,” said Manning.

Community service hours are a great addition to college applications, and the Distinguished Service Program validates the hours students say they served. However, this isn’t the main purpose of the program.

“Our top goal is to help students volunteer. It can be scary to make that irst step [of asking an organization if they would like a volunteer]. If students see how rewarding it is to help others, they may continue to volunteer into their adulthood,” said Manning.

A list of organizations which may be in need of volunteers is provided in the guidance oice; although, students are not limited to volunteering for organizations. Volunteering can come from hours helping neighbors or babysitting for free, for example.

“Some students are doing community service that they might not know counts as community service. For example, both the cross country and volleyball teams have spent hours participating in community service,” said Meyer.

Both Meyer and Manning agree that the community service will be beneicial for both the community and the students involved.

“I think it’s good for the community as a whole, and I hope that it will help the students to get involved in our community,” said Meyer.

•Christina Gualtieri (cgualtieri@pelladium.com)

11.04. 2014

Current

Students take PSAT in hopes to qualify as a National Merit Scholar he Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT) is undoubtedly an important test most high schoolers consider taking before their senior year. Many beneits come from taking this standardized test, all of which inluence decisions high schoolers make about their futures.

Administered by the College Board and National Merit Scholarship Program, the PSAT is a standardized test that is ofered for high school sophomores and juniors. Every year, about 3.6 million students across the nation take the PSAT. Formatted and scored similar to the SAT, the PSAT includes three sections: math, critical reading, and writing. One of the main beneits of taking the PSAT, however, is to determine if one qualiies to be a National Merit Scholar. As a National Merit Scholar, there are three competition rounds and three honorable levels of recognition that one could receive: Letter of Commendation, semiinalists, and inalists.

To receive this recognition, one must score at about the 96th percentile in the nation or top 50,000 highest scorers in the nation.

National Merit Scholars may receive scholarship money and an honorable recognition that attracts college acceptance letters. herefore, only 25 percent of Pella’s high school students brave this test.

“Its a test for only the top students. In

a pool of very accomplished students, to receive commendation from that elite group is something students and parents should be very pleased with,” said dean of students, Mark Core.

Since the PSAT is essentially an exam identical to the SAT, students practice taking a college entrance exam. his preparation leads students to understand how it feels to take the SAT or ACT in the correct environment.

Students can plan what sections they need to brush up before they take the actual college entrance exam of their choice.

“I wanted to take it to see how I would do on the SAT because it’s a good indicator how well you’ll do. I learned better test taking strategies and how to better prepare for a test,” said senior Hannah Smart.

Receiving PSAT scores doesn’t only afect college entrance interests, it also afects how students may prepare for college through their senior year.

“You also get results that will ofer clues as to what your strengths and weaknesses are.

When you get your results back, you could take senior classes that mediate or accentuate your interests for college,” said Core.

So far, Pella High School has graduated eight National Merit Scholars, all within the past three years. he staf and students hope for many more.

•Bellara Huang (bhuang@pelladium.com)

Debate: small but mighty Debate is one of the smallest extra-curriculars in Pella High School in terms of student participation. he varsity team consists of only four members, and there are less than 15 members on JV. However, compared to previous years, this is a large amount of participation, especially from underclassmen. here are only ive senior members, four of which make up the varsity team: Leah Wilborn and Matthew Sutija; Hannah Smart and Christina Gualteri. Debate is run by Dak Rasmussen, and other teachers help judge JV matches including Jessica Williams and Suzanne Jones. “his year has been great so far. We have a great team, a great plan, and a great methodology,” said Sutija.

So far, the varsity debate team has had eight wins and four losses. hey hope to continue their success and participate in the inal conference debate. Like any other sport, the season ends with a banquet. Preceding the banquet, there is a championship round between the two towns with the best record so far in the season and individual awards both at the varsity and the JV level are presented.

“It’s been a really great experience for me as a freshman. I was really nervous talking in front of people at irst, but after you get over your jitters, it’s really fun. I would deinitely recommend it to other students.” said freshman Caroline Henry.

•Leah Wilborn (lwilborn@pelladium.com)

Page Editor: Natalie Meyer

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SIAC meets to improve school Discussing grading and school improvements does not seem like an opportunity a high school student would likely have. As member of the Student Improvement Advisory Council (SIAC), students are able to be involved with improving the school. he high school members of SIAC are junior Robert Sales, sophomores Bellara Huang and Mary Sales, and freshman Adam Davis. SIAC focuses on improving the school with better technology, facilities, and a safer school district.

“In our meetings, we discuss what we want our schools to have and other important curricular business. We talk about grading, school improvements, and any topic relating to the school,” said Davis.

SIAC is made up of teachers, principals, students and other members in the district.

To become a member of SIAC, one must irst be recommended by a teacher or another member of the committee. After being recommended, the member must then accept the ofer to become a member of SIAC. he members are approved annually by the school board in each January.

Half the committee members are replaced each year, with the purpose of having new viewpoints and more members of the community involved. All committee members serve a two year term, yet one does not have to a member of the committee to attend a SIAC meeting.

“SIAC is a required advisory committee that every school district has to have. SIAC gives [the school] feedback on the goals and direction of the district. It is made up of community members, teachers and administration. I generate the agenda for the meeting in consultation with our district administrative team. Various members present

at the meeting and I serve as the facilitator of the sessions,” said SIAC facilitator Lowell Ernst.

Both the high school and middle school are represented by students. In the past year, SIAC has decided on numerous things, including remodeling the school, changing the grading of students, 1:1 laptops and new school lunch menus.

Members meet every two months, with the next meeting scheduled for Nov. 17. hough the agenda has not been inalized, there are topics that will deinitely be discussed by SIAC members.

“We will discuss some things dealing with construction progress and the district plan for Airmative Action. We will also preview our plan for conducting a needs assessment of the district,” said Ernst.

All SIAC meetings are open to the public, and the agenda for each meeting can be found on the school district’s website. Anyone from the community can attend a meeting as an observer but not as a participant. Any communication needed from the observers can be arranged by an administrator or during a public time allotted during each meeting. here are many beneits to being a SIAC member, including student participation and the information given to the members. Yet, Davis believes the most important beneit of this council is the involvement with your school and learning what the school plans for its future. “he best part of SIAC is learning what the school has in plan. As a student, I get to learn many things that students don’t get to.

SIAC is a really important group to have in our school district and solves all the problems that the school has,” said Davis.

•Jack Sytsma (jsytsma@pelladium.com)

>>>TEAM. Debate competed at Pella on October 28, winning ___ out of four debates. he championship debate will be held in Grinnell on DATE. “I’m really glad I joined debate. It has really improved my public speaking skills,” said senior Hannah Smart.

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Current

Page Editor: Bellara Huang

Soria and Spanish classes promote Crop Walk

11.04. 2014

Career Academy brings new opportunites

he Pella Career Academy is going to be a part of students’ lives soon. Many are interested in what it will ofer and how it will impact the school. he building is currently under construction and clear progress can be seen.

“Due to the unusual amount of rain we have had and the longer summer weather, the he annual 5k Crop Walk has come to Pella in search of donations. building is three to ive weeks behind currently scheduled,” said Principal Eric Nelson.

Some might have already heard of it, especially those in Paloma Soria’s Spanish classes. Soria Nelson later mentioned that being behind will not push back the date the academy will be promotes the cause every year by asking students to sponsor her as she takes the long walk. he open. he building itself will be done, but some of the exterior items, such as the parking lot, Crop Walk is a fundraiser to raise money for ending hunger, not only in the United States but will come soon after the building is done. all around the world. he building, once it is complete, will ofer students multiple classes with college credit.

“I participated because I want to think that I am helping children and families that don’t have Advanced Manufacturing is one of the new courses that will be introduced when the Pella enough water and food to survive,” said Soria.

Career Academy opens.

Soria’s classes, she teaches a total of six, sponsored her and raised a total of $347.71 for her “We do not plan on hiring additional teachers with the introduction of the new academy, walk alone. She walked at Pella’s own Crop Walk on October 5 at 2:00 P.M. [with the exception of ] a teacher to ill the new position of Advanced Manufacturing,” said “Ending hunger one step at a time” is the Crop Walk’s motto, which is very applicable Nelson. considering a person takes around 6,200 steps just to inish one 5k. An average number of steps he new building will house courses that were previously in the high school building. hese for a person to take in a day is about 10,000 steps, not to mention the Crop Walk only lasts courses include agriculture, welding, engineering, construction trades, computer technology, about an hour. So, just in one hour, one person can inish over half of the number of steps that criminal justice, culinary arts, and fashion and design courses. Looking at the blueprints, they may usually take in 24 hours. the building will be able to house these classes with ease. he building will be two stories: the Pella isn’t the only area that hosts a Crop Walk. In fact, they are all around the United States. bottom story being shops and the upper story being classrooms.

More than 2,000 communities participate in about 1,600 walks a year. here have been about Many teachers are excited for the introduction of more classrooms and upgrades. ive million walkers and 36,000 walks in the past two decades; although, the organization has “I am extremely excited to have an actual classroom instead of teaching down in the shop; it been around for much longer than that. In Pella, the walk starts and ends in the square, weaving will ofer my students less distraction,” said welding instructor Sheila Graham. in and around uptown.

Agriculture teacher Jacob Bowers agrees, looking forwrd to the layout and the enviroment of he Crop Walk used to be a 10k instead of a 5k, which Soria also used to participate in. She the new facilities. has participated in the Crop Walk for about 14 years now.

“I am excited about having a classroom that will be set up with a classroom in front and a lab “his year was a great one. I believe it has been the best so far. he weather was amazing. I in the back to give students a better environment with which they can work in,” said Bowers. remember years when it was snowing or it was windy and cold,” said Soria. he academy will ofer courses to students in other communities.

•Natalie Meyer (nmeyer@pelladium.com) “he building will open to schools in the area such as Pella Christian, Knoxville, and Twin Cedars. Once the building is up and running for students, there will be a start of night classes for adults in the community, farther down the road,” said Nelson.

Students will have to say goodbye to the current Ag wing of the school to make way for the new academy. “he buildings will be demolished. he current facilities [ag room/welding shop] are outdated and have served their purpose. he high school right now is going through renovations, and it is more cost efective to build a new building rather than try and update the current facilities,” said Nelson.

1. he Pella Career Academy will be a major asset in the lives of students all over the area and >>> WALK. Pella is among the 1,600 Crop Walks that take place throughout the United States. Soria has participated will become a reality beginning the next school year. in the Crop Walk for 14 years. “I invited all my students to be my sponsors. his year I was able to raise $347.71.

•Chandler Jahner (cjahner@pelladium.com) his year was a great one. I believe it has been the best so far,” said Soria.

Thompson faces adminstrative leave Band Director Ben hompson is currently on paid administrative leave, which began Sept. 16. Substitute teachers are illing hompson’s position until the school board, with recommendations from Superintendent Greg Ebeling, decides to either hire a teacher full-time to replace hompson or allow hompson to return to teaching.

“I am currently working on an investigation, and when this is completed, either hompson will come back or he won’t. I’m waiting on more information. I do not want to drag this process out, but right now it is beyond my control,” said Ebeling. he administration made it a priority to hire substitutes that have previous experience directing band. his is to ensure the band continues to be successful, even while lacking an assistant director. “[Retired band director] Steve Mccombs has been illing in hompson’s position 2-3 days a week. Dick Redman, who also retired from Pella, is substituting for hompson, as well as John Carey, who was a band director before teaching in Pella. All of the substitutes have plenty of experience,” said Ebeling.

Although rumors have been circulating, information regarding hompson’s absence is conidential, according to contract.

“Everyone knows it’s not good having someone put on administrative leave, but we can’t give those details. People don’t know what is going on, so they are making guesses and assuming,” said Ebeling.

Ebeling wants to encourage any student feeling anxiety over the situation to talk to a counselor or a teacher. he parents of students afected by this situation have already been contacted. “he safety of students is a priority. If hompson is here, the students are safe, and if he is not, the students are safe,” said Ebeling.

•Christina Gualtieri (cgualtieri@pelladium.com)

>>> BUILD. (Left) Construction for the Career Academy, located northwest of the high school, is in progress. he Career Academy will be open for students in the Fall Semester of 2015. (Above)he loor plans for the Career Academy. “[he Career Academy] will ofer so many vocational choices for students. Eventually, we hope to ofer night cources for community members,” said guidance counselor Allissa Grandia.

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Sports Cross Country sets high goals

11. 04. 2014

“When obstacles arise, you change your direction to reach your goal; you do not change your decision to get there,” said motivational speaker Hilary Ziglar. he Pella High cross country team set many goals; one of them is to obtain 300 personal records as a whole team.

If the team reached 300 personal records this season Coach Doug Cutler would shave his beard. It was a very high goal for the squad to achieve, but Cutler believes that it is good to set lofty goals, even if you don’t achieve them. “hey need to be challenging. If your goal is mediocrity, it’s not going to take much to get there. I am as proud about the fact that they set a very challenging goal as I am at how hard they worked to achieve the goal,” said Cutler.

Every year, the seniors come up with the goals, not Cutler. Cutler agreed to shave his beard if they succeeded in their goals.

Goals aren’t always met. he team came short of their goal; however, it still had a positive efect on the student-athletes and their own mindset.

“When I set goals for myself, I tend to have the ‘here’s what I expect no matter what’ goals. hen I set a goal that I would reasonably expect to get to. But then I think it is important to have that ultimate achievement, that dream that just seems so far out there when you start, that you don’t possibly think you can possibly get there. When you reach for the stars, you never know when you’re going to grab one. So, I think it is good to set very high goals. I think it is important to have goals that are kind of stepping stones to that goal. But you need to have that ultimate dream out there,” said Cutler. he goals aren’t just motivating Coach Cutler, they are also motivating the runners.

“In a way, the goal does motivate me to get better everyday in practice,” said sophomore Joshua Van Dusseldorp. “But I can only do so much for the personal goal, there is an equal amount of weight on everyone’s shoulders to reach the personal record goal.”

However, if you really want to see Cutler go clean shaven, it probably won’t happen. But he might just trim it up a little bit.

“It will probably get trimmed down pretty soon. But [I’m] not going to go clean shaven.

It’s not something I really want to do. My wife likes the beard. So, I probably won’t go clean shaven. But I am sure it’s going to get trimmed at some point here.”

•Caleb Piersma (cpiersma@pelladium.com)

Breast Cancer Awareness takes the stands October was Breast Cancer Awareness month, and many athletes showed their support and respect for the victims of breast cancer. Some athletes wore pink shoe laces, gloves, socks, bow ties, headbands and arm bands. Other teams or athletes took things to the extreme with pink jerseys and shoes or cleats.

Pella contributed to the cause by encouraging students and the community to participate by wearing pink during sporting events the week of Oct. 13. he volleyball team took part in a pink out by the spectators Tuesday, Oct. 14.

“It was an emotional night for the seniors because of Senior Night as well as it being Breast Cancer Awareness Game Night. I am glad that I could support the cause by simply going out and playing volleyball,” said senior Jessica Holterhaus. he night didn’t last long though as the Lady Dutch swept the Newton Cardinals in 3 straight games. he football team participated in a “Paint the Stands Pink” event during their last regular season home game against Saydel Friday, Oct. 17.

T-shirts were sold in the high school athletic oice as well as Sports Page Sporting Goods. If spectators wore their shirt in support, they received pink face tattoos, footballs and glow stick bracelets.

“I thought it was a good way for the community to unite and come together to support and fundraise for a great cause. Also it gave the fans a little extra excitement for the game,” said senior Isaac Naaktgeboren. he game was over before the irst quarter ended as the Dutch beat the Saydel Eagles 79-6. he week’s festivites inished up with the Pella in Pink Fun Run and Chocolate Walk, the Pella Forté team helped organize and run this event.

“Forté volunteers every year at Pella in Pink to help set up, tear down and encourage all of the runners. It is a lot of fun and it is great to be a part of the event every year,” said senior Forté captain Kaila Wimmer.

Senior Mackenzie Gustafson participated in the race held Oct. 18 with her brother Grant Gustafson.

“My brother and I decided to participate in the Pella in Pink race because it gave us the opportunity to help those in need, and also because our grandma had cancer,” said Gustafson.

•Garret Jansen (gjansen@pelladium.com)

PAGE EDITOR: Caleb Piersma

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Lady Dutch prepare for new season he basketball season is approaching. who inished fourth in the state, with a Last year the team inished 16-7, tied record of 21-3 last season. Grinnell, the second in conference. Good defense and other major competitor, inished with a players playing their role will be key for record of 18-5 last year and tied for second their success. in conference standings with Pella. he he Lady Dutch lost one senior, Jackie conference title will come down to the wire Sunderman. Sunderman was a vital part again like last year. of the team and provided “Our conference key leadership. However, is always tough. three sophomores got We battled back to quality playing time last inish 2nd last year, year, which will help the which was a huge team with depth and accomplishment experience. Sophomore for where we were and starting point guard at Christmas as a Katie VanderMolen team. If the girls agrees that the team will commit themselves, have a great bond. they should be in a “I think the key to position to compete success for this team is for the conference our relationship with one title. It will take another of and on the a lot of work and court. I think the cool dedication, but I part about this team is think this group has that we all get along on >>> SHOOT. Sophomore Katie Vandermowhat it takes,” said and of the court,” said len shoots against Newton in last year’s season. Garland. he Lady Dutch will start preparing their seaVanderMolen. he Lady Dutch he team has six seniors son on November 10. “We all have the same will open up this goal in mind, and I think we are all going to who supply leadership. work as hard as we can to achieve that goal,” season with an away All seniors play diferent said Vander Molen. game against Des positions, so the team can Moines North on be strong in both ofense and defense. Four Nov. 24. Garland is excited for this season of their ive starters are back for this year. and hopes that his prediction will be on the “Last year, Sunderman did a great job for spot as the season gets underway. us in so many diferent ways, on and of the “Teammates have to commit to a role, loor. She is going to be tough to replace. and not everybody on the team has the It also gives opportunities for girls to step same role. Special seasons happen when up in leadership,” said head coach Jerod girls commit to giving everything they Garland. have regardless of the role they have,” said he team excelled in scoring last year Garland.“If the girls will commit to playing and had multiple weapons on ofense. hey for each other and not for their own stats, averaged 55.6 points per game. hey also we could have a deep run. I’m really looking scored a total of 1278 points last year. forward to it. his year, the competition in conference •Caleb Piersma (cpiersma@pelladium. will be ierce. One major competitor of the com) Lady Dutch will be Dallas Center-Grimes,

MEet the Coach: Mark Core Q: How long have you been coaching at Pella? Did you have any prior coaching experience?

A: “Twenty years here at Pella. I was the head basketball coach in Denver High School in Iowa for six years and Klemme High School in Iowa for four years.”

Q: How would you describe your overall coaching philosophy?

A: “We try to use basketball as the means for developing leadership skills and character.”

Q: What do you love about basketball?

A: “I fell in love with basketball during 7th grade. I don’t know why. It became an obsession almost immediately. All my best friends were players, and I admired the coaches. I was a gym rat. It was just so natural for me to play. I just kept coming back to basketball.”

Q: Has your coaching style changed from when you started coaching to now?

A: “Yes, I would say to anybody who played 10-30 years ago, that I have mellowed out quite a bit. I want to go from Bob Knight to John Wooden.”

>>> CHEER. Senior Corey Elliot cheers for the Dutch at the home football game against Saydel. his game was to raise awareness for breast cancer. “I thought the community supported the night well and most people wore their pink shirts,” said Elliot.

•Photo Credit: Ashley Kirkland

Q: What goes into creating a good athletic program? What goes into a program that is successful almost year after year?

A: “I think it depends on the school. With the size we are, it goes into cooperation with the coaches and the music directors. Parents play a big role. he programs have to share talent. I think that at schools that are a lot larger than us, students can say they want to specialize in one sport.”

•Caleb Piersma (cpiersma@pelladium.com)

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In Focus

PAGE EDITORS: Garret Jansen & Christina Gualtieri

College tuition outrageous by 2030 As a part of Generation Y, high school students are often encouraged by their parents and other igures to further their education by advancing on to college. Parents and these other inluential igures want the best for their children and for their future, and many believe that college will provide those opportunities for success.

College is diferent now than it has been in generations past. Enrollment in degree-granting institutions rose 11 percent between 1991 and 2001 and 32 percent between 2001 and 2011 from 15.9 million to 21 million. hese statistics include people of all ages wanting to enroll and earn a degree. Between 2001 and 2011, the number of 18- to 24-year-olds increased from 28.0 million to 31.1 million, an increase of 11 percent, and the percentage of 18- to 24-year-olds enrolled in college rose from 36 percent in 2001 to 42 percent in 2011. he increase in enrollment is apparent, even though the cost diference is rather large. he average tuition rate for an institution in the 1981-82 school year was $8,438, in 2005-06 was $16,735, and in 2011-12 was $19,339. he $19,339 for tuition in the 2011-12 school year was only for tuition and room and board. Feel free to tack on more for books and meal plans.

As for a projection for the future, if trends continue to climb at a 5-7% increase, then by the fall of 2029 and spring of 2030, college students could be looking anywhere from $41,000 a year to $130,000 a year depending on the type of institution. hankfully, there are money saving options for students. Academic and athletic scholarships are available for qualiied students. hese scholarships range all the way from a full-ride to a very

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11.04. 2014

College applications can wait

minimal scholarship. Sometimes these are rewards for outstanding academics that are given by the institution, but there are also programs to help students out inancially. here is a program called Dollars for Scholars that awards students with multiple diferent scholarship options. Pella Dollars for Scholars is part of a nationwide network of over 1,000 community-based scholarship foundations, 110 of which are in Iowa. It is a program of Scholarship America, the nation’s largest non-proit private-sector scholarship and educational assistance organization.

Some students and their families may apply for FAFSA (Free Application For Federal Student Aid). his program is used by the U.S. Department of Education to determine your Expected Family Contribution by conducting a “need analysis” based on inancial information, such as income, assets and other household information, which you will be asked to provide.

Many people believe that college is the best option after graduating high school because of the opportunities it provides for the future. Evidence shows that people who have graduated from college with a degree have a signiicantly higher yearly salary ($11,000 more) than those who go into the workforce straight out of high school. But, because of how expensive a college education has become, potential college students need to consider whether it is worth the cost, especially if they would have to go into debt.

•Garret Jansen (gjansen@pelladium.com)

Students jump start on college plans High school students are asked to take on responsibilities such as clearing of the dinner table and walking the dog. One of the most diicult responsibilities a high schooler has is making a college selection before the age of 18. here is a push in today’s modern society for students to make life choices such as choosing a college and a career. With all of this pressure, students still worry whether they’ll be accepted into the college of their choice, and possibly obtain competitive scholarships. hese worries are starting at a younger age. Even today, freshmen are planning for college, and the sophomore class is especially competitive.

“I believe that studying helps me prepare for earning good grades. I like to study in groups because of the collaboration we get as a group,” said junior Tyler Hillman.

Students preparing for college at a young age tend to have a well balanced resume for their college applications. Private colleges in Iowa such as Drake University, Central College, and Grinnell College all require a written report to be considered for admission.

“It is important for students to prepare early because basically your entire future is decided by what college you attend. Factors such as hard work, accomplishments, and GPA are all taken into consideration when I am applying for college,” said freshman Adam Smart.

Online sites, such as IHaveAPlanIowa.com and Hudl.com, have provided tools for students to prepare for college planning. IHaveAPlanIowa.com has a layout plan for each grade that a

student is advised to follow. Recommendations such as when to take the ACT’s to when to formulate a college list are provided. Hudl.com is a web based tool that student athletes may edit game footage and upload highlight tapes for college coaches to be refered to for reqruiting purposes.

“I felt as though if I was good enough to play college football, they [collegiate coaches] would come to me. I didn’t have to go looking. I made a highlight tape on Hudl so coaches were able to see a sample of my athletic ability without having to come to a game,” said senior Mason Van Gorp.

Both students and athletes begin preparing for college before they even have a driver’s license.

Although the outcome for this preparation is success, Dean of Students, Mark Core, believes the collegiate preparations for both academics and athletics is premature.

“I think that same psychotic mindset [College Sports] has also entered into our thinking about academics. Do we want you to learn, yes. do we want you to grow up and be successful, yes. But this idea of this ‘mad scramble’ for college placement and scholarship opportunities show people are taking it way too seriously,” said Core.

•Ashley Kirkland (akirkland@pelladium.com)

Public or Private? Pros and Cons: public universities here are 629 public universities and 1,845 private colleges in the United States. housands of colleges are trying to convince high school students to spend thousands of dollars on their education. One of the most critical and basic decisions for a student to make is choosing whether to go to a public university or a private school. “he private schools do a better job of selling the individual rather than a large group. Sometimes I get really overwhelmed by the one on one attention. For me, the tour guide’s opinion is really important. I want to ind a place where I am comfortable and have access to the people who will help me develop into the person I will become,” said senior Taryn Ernst, who is considering Central College, University of Northern Iowa, and Dordt College.

When visiting colleges, a senior should make a point to meet with admissions counselors and professors.

“At some of the colleges I got to

visit with a college advisor who walked me through what classes I need and what my schedule would look like for my speciic major,” said senior Jamison Roozeboom, who is considering Iowa State, University of Northern Iowa, and Drake University. here are many beneits of both types of colleges. Private schools ofer students the opportunity to be a ‘big ish in a little pond’ while public schools ofer more degree programs at a lower cost. In the end, one should focus on colleges that have strong connections with businesses and ofer numerous internship opportunities, and remember there are many exceptions to every rule.

Some larger public schools do an incredible job of individualizing education despite their large student body, and many private schools ofer ways to make college just as afordable as public schools.

•Leah Wilborn (lwilborn@pelladium.com)

vs private colleges Private More lexibility on requirements Use their own system instead of RAI More merit/need-based scholarships Smaller student body, less groups Better study abroad programs (usually) 26 in Iowa Only ofer 4-year degrees Fewer areas of study Smaller class sizes

Public More stringent on admission requirements Use RAI score Lower starting price, less scholarships Larger student body, more campus groups and clubs Bigger, more diverse student hree in Iowa Most ofer bachelor’, master’s, and doctorate degrees Numerous areas of study Larger class sizes

College alternatives he future. he dark rain cloud vaguely looming over one’s head since ihaveaplan.org was introduced in the eighth grade. So many options, so many opportunities. For some, the future means college. For others, college will not be part of their future. his is an introduction to alternative options to college.

1. he irst option is to take a gap year. his gives a person opportunities and time to try new things, things that can’t be learned in a high school, such as creating things with their own hands and learning their strengths and interests. Individuals have the opportunity to grow and ind things that intrigue them.

2. he second option applies to those who want to specialize in a speciic career path by attending a vocational school, also known as a trade school. A vocational school is a higher level institution that specializes in providing students with the education and technical skills they need in order to perform the tasks of a particular job. Vocational schools tend to graduate students after two full years of study.

3. Online schooling is also an option for non-college-goers. Most online schooling

follows an eight week format, in which all assignments for one week are due at the end of the week. Online schooling provides a cheaper option that is more lexible for one’s schedule. If one prefers learning more on their own without a teacher’s watchful eye, this is a reasonable option.

4. For the more patriotic, brave souls that walk the hallways of the high school, maybe joining the military is the correct choice. Joining the military will provide specialized training in any number of ields, depending upon the branch one is considering.

5. Last but not least, is joining the workforce. Life is full of struggles, whether that be passing a college exam or working towards a promotion; both are equally challenging. After all, people work for their own successes, so skipping a step may be applicable for some.

Hopefully, this article enlightened some minds on the unpredictable weather coming this way for seniors. In this ever-growing society, tradition supports young, abled students to go to college, but that may not be clear skies for everyone.

•Bellara Huang (bhuang@pelladium.com)

Staf Editorial: the real cost College. here are so many diferent stereotypes, views and beliefs about college and what it stands for. In Pella, most people apply to college in order to further their education and increase the opportunities available to them in the future. For other individuals, the old joke may apply. hey may claim that they are “going to major in girls (or boys) and booze.” Whether a student is going for the right reasons or not, a student must make his or her decision. hose decisions seem to come earlier and earlier for high school students. here is a big debate on when a student should start their search. If you desire to play athletics in college, there is somewhat of a timetable for making a decision due to rules and regulations set by the NCAA. Even with those regulations, schools are constantly throwing their name at you with all sorts of mail, e-mail, phone calls, social media, and anything else imaginable.

Even if a student doesn’t wish to participate in sports at the collegiate level, they receive an overload of information as early as sophomore year. his makes students aware of the requirements for most colleges. his may be overwhelming for some students, especially with the amount of computer generated e-mails. Students are having trouble determining what could be a mass e-mail or a meaningful personalized e-mail.

Once a college is decided upon, most will have to pay most or full tuition along with room and board and meal plans. his sends most college students into debt and strongly encourages them to get a job while in college in eforts to help decrease the debt total.

College tuition rates keep climbing at an alarming rate. With estimated average totals around the $70,000 dollar range by 2030, people are starting to debate whether college is worth it.

With college costs as high as they are, it will take many years after college to repay that debt, no matter how highly paid someone is. In 2012, the average student had $29,00 of student loan debt. With tuition rising and average salaries staying stagnant, it will take even longer for future generations to repay their debt, which will continue to rise. here is hope for those who don’t have the desire to attend colleges after graduation.

Many people enter into the workforce right out of high school, whether it be a part of a family business or trying to work their way up the ladder. his way these people are able to stay out of debt right away. he only downside may be a lower income, and these individuals may have to work longer in order to retire. he Pelladum staf voted unanimously in favor of this article.

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Opinion

PAGE EDITOR: Leah Wilborn

11.04.2014

The Bottom Line •A column by Christina Gualtieri If I watch television or listen to the radio for more than ive minutes I will see a political advertisement. ‘Tis the season,’ right? Over the last month or so I’ve learned that trying to avoid the political commercials is like trying to avoid the plague - attempts made are useless and will ultimately fail. I’ve given up avoiding these ads and now can basically recite each advertisement word-for-word with whichever broadcaster (who is most likely “not ailiated with any candidate or candidate’s committee”) may be on the air at the moment. Here is my mini-rant for the month: I AM SO SICK OF THESE COMMERCIALS. STOP PLAYING THE SAME ONES OVER AND OVER AGAIN BECAUSE IT ISN’T SWAYING MY VOTE. Okay, rant over. hat was hypothetical. I’m seventeen; I can’t vote yet.

I am sick of the political commercials, but not just because each commercial seems to be on a constant repeat cycle every ifteen minutes. What I am aggravated over is the diferent political groups or committees bashing the opposing political candidate instead of building their own candidate up. I thought we learned in irst grade to treat others the way we want to be treated, to be nice to others? Honestly.

I don’t understand why political candidates or political groups would even spend the time or the money (millions of dollars for 30 seconds on air) to put others down, saying what the opponent is doing wrong, instead of what he or she is doing right. hat makes no sense to me. If I hear a candidate speaking in a degrading way about someone, I automatically tend to dislike that candidate, no matter what he or she stands for. I also am more likely to research

Commentary: Feminism is not a dirty word Emma Watson, Goodwill Ambassador for UN Women, recently spoke to the United Nations and extended a formal invitation to join her international campaign called HeForShe. he campaign challenges men worldwide to take a pledge to ight for equal gender rights. HeForShe strives to make the feminist movement a movement that includes both genders, not just women.

She told men, “gender equality is your issue, too.” Men who take the pledge essentially sign a petition committing to “take action against all forms of violence and discrimination against women and girls.”

Not even a day after Watson’s speech, 20,000 men had taken the HeForShe pledge internationally. Most of these pledges come from countries such as the United States and the United Kingdom. Less than 30 pledges came from Saudi Arabia, which was not unexpected. Less men are going to sign the pledge in a country ranked dead last for women’s rights by a study that looks at child marriage, slavery, and reproductive rights.

While male celebrities such as Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Tom Hiddleston, and Russell Crowe have (>>>Photo from Newscom) made their support clear, not everyone is a fan of the campaign.

Watson was threatened through anonymous posts on various social networking sites. Some of these posts included threats to leak nude photos of Watson. One post read, “hat feminist b- Emma is going to show the world she is as much of a whore as any woman.” However, these posts managed to achieve the opposite of their goal. Instead of silencing Watson on feminism, they only bring to light the real need for it. Why does being a feminist bring Watson’s sexual purity into question? Are all women whores? More importantly, would men be faced with the same threats of the leaking of nude photos if they made a speech ighting for men’s rights?

Would they be called a whore?

Others, mostly men, have protested against Watson’s campaign in more respectful ways. One article, by A Voice For Men, stated that “he vast majority of men and boys in the world are not feminists. hat being the case, simple logic tells you that if you want one billion of us to sign up to something….DON’T MAKE IT FEMINIST!” his is ine. here are people who do not want gay people to have rights, so they do not participate in LGBT marches. here were people who did not want black people to have rights, so they did not participate in freedom marches. here were those who did not want women to have the right to vote, so they did not vote to give women that right. If you want your sisters, daughters, wives, mothers, or friends to make 70 cents to every dollar men make, do not sign the pledge. If you are ine with women being raped, sold as sex slaves or forced to marry a man three times their age before they hit puberty, do not sign the pledge. he word “feminist” divides people. he label carries a negative connotation that is based on the exception to the rule. Feminism is not the same thing as being sexist towards men. It does not make you weak or angry or spiteful. Feminism is based on respect and the desire for equality.

Feminism is far bigger than women in America wanting to be seen as equal to men. here is a larger picture: one where women are raped, forced into marriage, sold into slavery, or killed. he feminist movement must start in countries where women can vote and can speak out against men. Feminism is about taking small steps to work toward the larger picture. It is not about hating men or thinking that women are better than men. It is the idea that no one’s daughter, friend, sister, mother, or wife deserves to be treated as less than they are worth. As Watson stated in her speech, “If not me, who? If not now, when?”

•Leah Wilborn (lwilborn@pelladium.com)

the candidate being bashed to see what there is to dislike about his or her policies. Doing this makes me more likely to vote for that candidate, oftentimes simply because I know more about his or her policies and what exactly I am voting for.

In this election speciically, I have heard much more bashing directed towards Joni Ernst than I have Bruce Braley. Either Joni is a really awful candidate that no one in their right mind would vote for, as portrayed by some commercials, or she is doing something right to cause such backlash. hat’s just a little side note, something one of my dear friends brought up the other day. If there is a lot of backlash taking place, it might be because they are doing something really right and the other party is not, similar to elementary school bullies.

Honestly, I just don’t like political advertisements. I understand they are necessary to get the candidate’s name recognized, so people will research further, but let’s be real. here is no way I could learn all the important policies and changes a candidate wants to make by listening to a 30 second ad. All I hear is what the candidate wants me to hear. He or she may be exaggerating or word things in such a way that they sound better than they are. Candidates may make promises that they do not keep, or not to the extent that was promised. I guess my challenge is this: to anyone reading this who is of voting age, take time and research the candidates before you vote. Don’t vote for a candidate because of their party ailiation, and don’t take the advertisements to heart because most of the ads do not tell the whole truth.

What does the word feminism mean to you?

Freshman Joseph Bacon “Being a gentlemen to a lady.”

Sophomore Zion Miller “Equal rights between men and women...”

Junior Candace Mitchel “Knowing that women are equal to men..”

Senior Hannah Smart “hat women and men deserve equal rights and that feminists should not blame men for the problems in the world and achieve it through equality.”

•Joshua Da (JDa@pelladium.com)

11. 04. 2014

OPINION

Page Editor: joshua Da

Wait, What?

Believe Me on this One •A Column By Ashley Kirkland 11 Commandments for High School and Whatever Life is After We Graduate.

1. Appreciate your parents; you don’t know what will happen.

Soon enough, you will graduate from high school and move out. Appreciate everything they do for you now.

2. If you don’t want to wear makeup, don’t.

You’re young and beautiful.

3. It’s really okay to love yourself. Appreciate the funny curve of your nose, and that gap in your teeth makes your smile prettier. Just because you don’t look like that girl in the magazine doesn’t mean you can’t tell yourself you’re beautiful every now and then.

4. Do what makes you happy. I know you’ve heard this a million times, but I can’t stress this enough. Go after your dream job even if it goes against everything your parents want.

Your friends don’t make you laugh until your sides hurt? You don’t have to be friends with them anymore. You’re in control. No one else. Don’t fall under the pressure of pleasing people. Please yourself and live for you.

Chase your dreams. If they don’t scare you, they aren’t big enough.

5. Love who you want, regardless of gender, skin color, or societal views. Please never give up true love because of peer pressure.

Adoration is a beautiful, beautiful thing, and if you’re lucky enough to come across it, don’t you dare walk away from it because of what others will think. Take the looks, the whispers, and the criticism with a smile. Let me tell you, the world is only jealous because they simply can’t understand.

6. Everyone needs a day every so often to just relax. It’s okay to be lazy. It’s okay to sleep for 12 hours straight. It’s okay to go to bed at 6 a.m. because you’re reading and wake up at 3 the next day. Treat yourself, but most

importantly, love yourself enough to give yourself time to breathe.

7. Alone time is good for the soul. I truly believe that. I think it’s good to cancel your plans sometimes, close your door, turn of your phone, and play some John Mayer (or whatever your prefer). Maybe you could read a book, or heck even write one if you’re up for it. But take some time to yourself and learn to be happy with just you and the sound of your breathing. At the end of the day, you are the only person that is guaranteed to stick around, so you might as well learn to enjoy the way laugh at your own jokes or the way you pronounce words when you read aloud.

Being comfortable alone is more important than you know.

8. It’s okay to be 18 and still love Disney movies. It’s not even a guilty pleasure.

Everyone has their favorite whether they admit it or not.

9. Do not compromise who you are to impress someone else. You are a wonderfully constucted individual.

Your trials, experiences, and life altogether have sculpted you into the most lovely version of you possible. You were not put on this earth to impress anyone. Impress yourself. Stick to what you want and stand up for what you believe.

10. You can never go wrong with pizza.

11. Lastly, don’t wish your years away. We are at that age where you’re responsible for your choices, but aren’t really considered an adult.

Being young is the most fantastic, exciting adventure we will ever endure. And when we get older we’ll wish for these years back, even all the bad days that came along with it. So enjoy your youth, relish in it. Because we will never be younger than we are right this second.

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• A Column By Leah Wilborn his is not your typical column. It is actually more of an adventure novel, a story of self-discovery and a quest for inspiration.

After a long two weeks of shot-down columns, I was lost. I sat in class, staring at the blinking cursor that represented my hours on this earth blinking away.

Once upon a time, I had hundreds of hilarious ideas to write about, but now I had nothing. I had tried gossipping over a cup of apple cider (my go-to ix when I’m frustrated), three diferent lavors of ice cream (even the really expensive kind didn’t help), and hanging upside down of of my bed talking to my mom.

At this point, I was fresh out of ideas, counting how many times Ms. Blanton said ‘okay’ in class.

I was on the verge of sacriicing my spotless reputation and writing a column that was deep or cheesy or just plain dumb in hopes of making my deadline. I was holding on by a thread when I decided to go to the ‘Quotes’ page on Pinterest, which unfortunately, usually leaves me with more questions than answers. he irst thing I saw was a Buzzfeed article with pictures of dogs that had bones three times their size, so I was feeling pretty good at this point.

Since the Pinterest page was turning out so well, I decided to continue reading and simply follow all the advice that these strangers gave me. A girl named Candy ofered up the advice that “Vibes speak louder than words.” Wow, great advice Candy. (Is that your real name?)

I promptly went to the band hall to ind someone, hopefully someone on the snare line, to play me a song on the vibes or at least the marimba. he next thirty pins consisted of far too many ultrasound pictures and memes of Sarah Palin than I was comfortable with, so I gave up on Pinterest.

I was three scoops deep in a bowl of ice cream and feeling a little less hopeless when my dame in shining armor came in the form of my mom gossipping about her high school reunion (not all the cute boys stayed cute and some people ask way too many questions). I think she was feeling very nostalgic and sentimental. What my mom said revived my creative inspiration. “It doesn’t matter how dreamy you were in high school if you show up to the reunion bald with an ugly personality.” Great words of wisdom, Mel. I hope I look as good as you when I’m 29 and going to my 30 year high school reunion.

I often ind that the most wise people in adventure novels are minorities. he wise African American, the kind Native American grandmother who is technically a tree. Unfortunately, there are not a surplus of Native American grandmother trees in Pella, Iowa. Fortunately, I did ind a wise, beautiful man with wise, beautiful words in the form of Kanye West. It was so hard to decide between all of his encouraging words, but one that stuck with me was “Sometimes I get emotional over fonts.” his makes a lot of sense because political campaigns frequently use Comic Sans and that physically hurts my soul.

Most adventure tales end with a huge ight where the hero ights someone at least three times their size with three times more talent. his tale is no diferent. It took hours of online shopping, several cups of apple cider chai, more complaining than I would ever admit to, and some incredibly inspiring and attractive people along the way. But in the end, one thing remains. I’m still bitter about my other columns sitting in the trash.

The death of iTunes Music, we hear it everyday. Whether it be on YouTube, sung, or heard in the car on the way to school, music is all around us. As a matter of fact, due to the abundance of it, programs like iTunes were created to allow each and every one of us to experience music wherever we go. However, the once-dominant program has fallen in popularity due to ierce, free, competition. he once powerful iTunes had almost a monopoly on digital music with its only competition being small, mp3 based, programs. Be that as it may, iTunes is no longer the only reliable source to download music, and it certainly isn’t the cheapest. Programs like Pandora, Spotify, 8tracks.com, Soundcloud, and YouTubetomp3 (aka the easiest thing to do).com, have allowed students to listen to their favorite music anywhere, anytime, and absolutely free.

Some programs, like Pandora, Spotify, and 8tracks.com, allow students to listen to music via live stream over Wi-Fi or cellular data. hese programs present a huge threat to Apple’s musical database by making the music extremely available and extremely free. Apple does, however, have iTunes Radio, which is similar to those programs. hat being said, it is not nearly as popular as the software mentioned before. Plus with the increase in the number of students with smart phones, listening to music anywhere over cellular data has become much simpler. he other alternatives are programs like Soundcloud and YouTubetomp3.com. Soundcloud is a program and an ios app that allows students to listen to and, in some cases, download, music over wii and/or cellular data. It is very similar to the programs listed before. On the other hand, Youtubetomp3.com is a whole other beast. his website allows students to take the links from YouTube videos, type them into the site, and download said link onto their computer, which they can then transfer to their phone or mobile device. his has really created a huge problem for iTunes. he site pretty much allows students to get music for free as long as it is on YouTube and doesn’t violate copyright laws. Students can simply copy and paste the URL into the allotted area on the site and voila! hey have their song, for free.

For more technological insight, visit our website, Pelladium.com.

•Chase Petty (cpetty@pelladium.com)

Pelladium Staf Executive Editors: Christina Gualtieri, Garret Jansen Page Editors/Reporters: Joshua Da, Bellara Huang, Ashley Kirkland, Natalie Meyer, Jack Sytsma, Zach VandeWeerd, Caleb Piersma, Leah Wilborn Reporter: Chandler Jahner Business Manager/Social Media Manager: Marissa Borgerding Cover Page: Garret Jansen Photographer: Ashley Kirkland Advisor: Amy Blanton he Pelladium is a monthly tabloid produced by the high school journalism department to serve as an informative, educational and entertaining communications media and to provide an open forum to students and readers.

•Letters to the editor are welcomed and encouraged. hese letters must be signed and should, in no way, be libelous, irresponsible or obscene. Letters must have veriied facts and should deal with issues. he Pelladium reserves the right to edit grammatical editors, libelous content or length due to space limitations. Letters may be brought to Room 201 or sent to Pella Community High School, Box 468, Pella, IA 50219. •he Pelladium will strive to deliver information in a fair and truthful manner. he Pelladium will function in accord with all applicable laws, both in regard to the rights and restrictions of journalism. •he views expressed in this publication are those of the individual writer and are not those necessarily of the Pella Community Schools administration or the Board of Education. •he Pelladium will make retractions in the event of errors made in the content of printed stories. Retractions will be printed in the issue immediately following the issue containing the error. •he Pelladium is a member of the Iowa High School Press Association

ainment 10Car Care: Winterizing your Entert car PAGE EDITOR: Christina Gualtieri

It is the time of year to prepare for when the snow comes, but oftentimes people forget to prepare their cars. I will walk you through what you should do to prepare your car for the upcoming snowpocalypse.

1. Change your oil. he irst thing you should do is take care of your oil. If you are due to change your oil, about every 6 months or every 5,000-7,000 miles, I recommend doing that before we get snow on the ground. Your engine takes a beating during the winter with having to ight of the cold and keep running, so dirty oil makes it harder to work. Over time the oil becomes thick, making it harder for the engine to move. Also, if you are a “do it yourselfer”, like myself, the ground is cold to work on, which is never fun.

2. Check your tires. If your tires need changed, change them. Snow is hard to drive on and you need as much traction as you can get. Regardless if you have two or four wheel drive, make sure the tire pressure is right. If you take it to a shop, they will probably check the pressure for you.

3.Be prepared. Prioritize what you want in your trunk given your car’s behavior. Some things I would recommend are jumpercables, a cell phone charger, a tow rope, a blanket, and a couple of sweat shirts. We all get a dead battery sometimes, so the jumper cables are needed.

Having them on hand saves some of the stress.

4. Make winter precautions. Driving in the winter is a lot diferent than driving in summer, so take it easy. If you do get stuck in a snow ditch, for your own safety, get out of the car and make sure your exhaust pipe or pipes are not covered in snow. If your exhaust pipes get covered up when you go and start the car, toxic fumes that your exhaust emits will enter your cab, which can make you pass out or worse.

5. Let your car warm up. I see it often in the parking lot and everywhere I go.

People ire up their cars, and after about two seconds, they are already moving. Please, I again I ask you, let it warm up. Your oil has to warm up to allow for better engine operation. When you stand outside for awhile, your ingers get cold and they go numb. It is diicult to work with your ingers. It occasionally can hurt, right? he same concept applies here. Your blood is becoming thicker which makes it harder for your moving pieces (i.e. ingers, toes, etc.). Your oil does the exact same with all of the moving parts in your engine.

Overall I ask that you stay safe during this upcoming snowpocalypse. If not, well I guess you will keep Car Guys like myself and my friends busy. Enjoy the upcoming winter wonderland and do us all a favor, please, keep it between the ditches.

11.04.2014

Drawings by Chase Pella defeats Newton

Have car questions? Email the car guy at chandler.jahner@student.pella.k12.ia.us

Seasonal Warmth: What to drink this fall

Welcome November. I adore the fall for many reasons - printed scarves, Steve Madden boots, Friday night lights and that special something to snuggle up with - a steaming hot fall drink.

In celebration of this special seasonal transition, some of my fellow staf members and myself declared a girls’ day on the town in search for this season’s perfect fall drink. Every drink has the 12 ounce price listed.

Caramel Apple Chai: $2.75 he Caramel Apple Chai from he Brew was a combustion of its own with every sip. his drink has a base of apple cider which tickles the taste buds as they take in the subtle hints of chai. he caramel in this drink provide a sweet accent along with the cider lavoring. With a welcoming smile from the Brew staf, we walked of into the street with the epiphany of fall drinks in our grasps.

Caramel Apple Cider: $4.01 Smokey Row’s famous Caramel Apple Cider is one for all occasions, whether it’s window shopping for your next spirit jersey from Embellish or heading out to a local pumpkin patch for a date with that special honey. his cup full of perfectly steamed apple cider and caramel is enough for one to head back for seconds, or thirds. he caramel adds a sweet taste that will leave your taste buds yearning for more, so why deny them their basic fall needs? I recommend a large for this drink, with whip cream and caramel drizzle. Don’t have a hungering desire for caramel? Try the Cinnamon Apple Cider for just as much apple taste with a zing of bold cinnamon.

Casey’s English Tofee: $1.38 his convenient gas station has more to ofer than Skittles and pizza. his drink possesses a sickly sweet taste at irst sip. I recommend topping of this drink with some hot water to distract your taste buds from the sugar overload. Don’t get me wrong, if I was in a rush getting to school, this is the “go to drink.” For only $1.38 and a cafeine punch, I recommend this drink for those who cannot seem to ind time to wind down long enough before rushing of to carve a pumpkin or purchase another thrifted, oversized sweater. he Sanctuary’s Pumpkin White Chocolate Mocha: $3.75 Looking for more of a pleasant, heart-warming, cafeinated drink? Try he Sanctuary’s Pumpkin White Chocolate Mocha; with a prominent milky taste, it has the right amount of chocolate sweetness without being overly rich. It is thick, creamy, and smooth and has a subtle pumpkin spice aftertaste, which brings one back for more. It is the ideal beverage to sip on whilst catching up with an old friend. While drinking the Pumpkin White Chocolate Mocha or other unique drinks ofered at he Sanctuary, one can also admire the crafty, snug atmosphere.

•Ashley Kirkland (akirkland@pelladium.com)

Green Sponsors Pella High School Publications Dutch Meadows Landscaping 100 Vermeer Rd E (641) 628 4040 650 Hwy T14, Pella, IA

(641)628-1416 2121 Old Highway 163, Pella, IA

(641) 628-2430

1301 Main Street, Pella IA

Iowa Dermatolgy, 2605 Washington Street Pella Corporation, 102 Main Street Pella Pets Veterinary Clinic, 411 Oskaloosa Street Town Crier, LTD, 810 East 1st Street Ulrich Meat Market, 715 Franklin Street Van Maanen Seed & Chemical, 2073 Eaton Ave. Van Maanen, Sietstra and Myer, PC, 705 Main Street Wiskus Group, 821 Franklin Street

11.04.2014

Entertainment Top Horror Movies

As Halloween approaches, it is now time to plan your “fright night” complete with horror movies, popcorn and your best buddy, who will most likely run out screaming. Here is a list of the top 10 classic horror movies from the 60s-80s.

1. Psycho: In this chilling Alfred Hitchcock ilm, you will learn about the life of a psychotic killer and a loving mother at the infamous Bates Motel; watch for the critically acclaimed “shower scene.”

2. he Exorcist: his horror ilm has been seen by countless people around the world. his movie takes you into the life of a mother with a very unique problem and focuses on a young girl who has been possessed by a demon.

3. Rosemary’s Baby: A struggling politician makes a deal with the devil. He will become successful, but he must sacriice the sanity of his child.

4. Carrie: After this young girl is teased by her fellow classmates, anger and revenge is unleashed by Carrie, a teen who has unearthly powers. A Stephen King classic, which shows how sometimes the shy girl has the most to say.

•Jack Sytsma (jsytsma@pelladium.com)

Josh Draws with Josh Da

“Dont worry; we’re dealing with it.”

Fall bucket list

1. Jump into a pile of leaves- You’ll need a rake and a big comfy sweatshirt. Note to self: don’t think about all of the squirmy insects that are in that big pile and simply jump in!

2. McDonalds Monopoly- If you’re ever hungry and you need something quick, McDonalds is the way to go. Now is especially the time because they are doing their Monopoly edition. You could win a million dollars!

3. Walk around Big Rock Park- It’s fall and it doesn’t last very long. So go take a walk through Big Rock Park, admiring those deciduous trees and their colorful leaves that Mrs. Kilby taught you to love.

4. Host a bonire- Don’t forget some sparklers and s’mores. Finish the night with stargazing.

5. Take part in a snuggle sesh w/ puppy & warm apple cider- here’s no need for an elaboration on this one. You know you want to.

•Natalie Meyer (nmeyer@pelladium.com)

•Natalie Meyer (nmeyer@pelladium.com)

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5. Alien: Just as the name implies, Alien is about an alien… shocker. After a band of astronauts gets abandoned in the middle of outerspace, they encounter extraterrestrial beings that they must overcome in order to survive.

6. he Shining: his ilm shows the sheer insanity of a winter manager of the Overlook Hotel. Another classic Stephen King ilm that is sure to leave you scared.

7. Poltergeist: he classic haunt horror ilm where a family buys a home, only to ind it was built above an Indian burial ground; bizarre events occur including moving furniture and bending silverware.

8. Silence of the Lambs: his movie takes you into the mind of a imprisoned psychopath. he F.B.I. must team with this killer to ind and catch a suspect they need for their case.

9. Blair Witch Project: he stereotypical story of a house in the middle of the woods, but it has a wild twist that is unlike any other.

10. Amityville Horror: he last ilm on this list is truly a classic horror ilm. A father and his family move into a new home, to ind it is haunted by the past.

Hunger Games Derives From History As you might have heard, on November 21 the third movie of the Hunger Games trilogy, Mockingjay Part I, will be coming out and into theaters. However, you might not know about the similarities between the world portrayed in he Hunger Games and Ancient Rome.

In fact, Suzanne Collins, the author of he Hunger Games series, was inspired by a Roman and Greek myth called heseus and the Minotaur, which is about seven maidens and youths who were sent into a labyrinth to be devoured by a minotaur as a punishment. She compares the seven boys and girls in the tale to the boys and girls chosen from each of the twelve districts in he Hunger Games. Collins also compares the labyrinth to the arena in the games, believing that the Roman story was horriic, and yet somewhat addicting.

Not only was the story’s inspiration found in a Roman myth, there are many other references to Ancient Rome in he Hunger Games.

One of these examples includes when in Catching Fire many citizens of Panem who are attending a party, binge so that they may be able to ill up with more food. his also occurred in Ancient Rome for the same reason. During a feast, wealthy citizens would go throw up in what they called a vomitorium, so they were able to eat and taste more food.

Another, more obvious similarity would be Rome’s Colosseum and how they utilized it. hey had games in which participants would ight to the death and until there was one last standing victor. his kind of entertainment was known as a gladiatorial show. his compares to he Hunger Games because that is exactly how it works; 24 tributes ight to the death until there is one last standing victor.

Many Roman names are also used in he Hunger Games such as Cinna, Cato, Portia, Octavia, Flavia, and lastly Caesar.

Now, on to the more exciting information- he Mockingjay movie itself. WARNING: SPOILER ALERT! his movie will most likely be the most depressing of the trilogy yet.

Peeta is taken, tortured, and “hijacked,” and many of the beloved characters die. However, on the bright side, most of these events won’t occur until part II of the series, which will be coming out about a year from its predecessor, on November 20, 2015.

Oh, and may the odds be ever in your favor, especially when trying to get a ticket into the movie.

Page Editor: Zach Vande Weerd

TWItTEN BY Senior Colin Jones- @ColinJ_Jones

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Sophomore Nicole Schnebbe- @NicoleSchnebbe

But let me ask you a question. Is it wrong to live through your video game quarterback?

Part of me wants to say screw it and fail all my classes. Yet another part of me still cries

Yes. Probably

because of that A- I got last year

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Junior Austin Hill- @austinonahill

Junior Adam Sievers- @AtomSievers

My mom bought 42 cookies for team meal; I only need 3 dozen. So, I ate the 6

It’s nice when Mother Nature gives you the Supreme Car Wash for free

#sorrynotsorry

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3.

Junior Payton Belloma- @PaytonBelloma

If a football player doesn’t post something on Instagram...Is there even a football game?

4.

Senior David Schemm- @David2Schemm

If you open up Google Maps, and hit current location. hat’s where Jesus is

5.

Junior Noah Clayberg- @ClaybieBabie

I could tell who everyone on my team is just by looking at their cleats #FootballSeason #Chaos

Senior Hannah Smart- @smart_hannahm

I’m always puzzled when I see hashtags that have nothing to do with the tweet...#llamas #pizza #volcano

9.

Sophomore Sarah Killoren- @KillorenSarah

Do you ever just get so bored you stalk about 10,000 people for no reason?

10.

Junior Isaac Webb- @Big_Saak

Late night dancing, early morning biking, all day west civing #life •Joshua Da (JDa@pelladium.com)

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PAGE EDITOR: Ashley Kirkland

Picture This

11.04.2014

Junior Payson Vande Lune holds the ball for senior Seth Johnson during a football game in Chariton. he boys were named District champions with a season record of 9-0. “I am really proud of how far we have come as a team. Each week we get closer and closer to the end of the season, and we are ready to inish it of in a positive way,” said Johnson.

Pelladium staf and Duchess staf traveled to Iowa City, October 23rd for the IHSPA journalism fall conference. he Duchess staf of 2014 was awarded irst place in Class B for overall yearbook. Last years’ Pelladium staf was awarded honorable mention for writing, and irst place for graphic design. “he IHSPA journalism conference was really fun this year! I got to learn a lot about photography and writing. It was very informational and I can’t wait to go back next year,” said sophomore Sammy Boetger.

FALL FEVER The fall season is inally here, and as the seasons change, so do our daily lives. This leaf shows how we enjoy the different aspects of fall.

Junior Grant Judkins observes the bee sanctuary in the science hall. Biology teacher Jef Siewert was awarded a grant for the sanctuary. “I really enjoy walking into class everyday and looking at the bees just because it’s diferent. Plus it usually wastes the irst 5 minutes of class,” said Judkins.

Junior Ally Canield helps the cross country team with their service day on Oct. 25. Along with the Pella Christian team, 20,000 bulbs were planted in 3 hours along Main St. “Planting tulips was really enjoyable. I love to help out the community. I can’t wait to see how they turn out in the spring,” said Canield.

Graphic by sophomore Tatyana Kapochkina

INSTA-LIFE On October 28, the Pelladium staf posted on our staf account asking students to post their best halloween pictures from the past, and to tag #PHSHistoryHaunts. hese were the responses we recieved.

Sophomore Elisabeth Jansen @_lizij Also featured, senior Garret Jansen. @garret.jansen

Junior Zach Vande Weerd @Zach_VandeWeerd Also pictured on right, sophomore Ross Vande Weerd

Senior Marissa Borgerding @marissa_borg