February pelladium

Michalek to All-State

Swimming Dominates

PELLADIUM P. 4

P. 5

THE PELLA COMMUNITY HIGH SCHOOL NEWS PUBLICATION

02.25.2014

Volume 26

Issue Six

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PAGE EDITOR: Gregory Frommelt

Current

02. 25. 2014

OECD chooses Pella High for testing

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>>>TESTING. Students participated in Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) testing Jan. 22. “The questions varied. Some of them were hard, but most of them were fairly easy. We got tested in three areas: math, English and science. We also had to fill out a survey at the end about our enviroment at home, the job of our parents and how well teachers interact with us in classrooms,” said freshmen Ciara Buchheit. Results will be known in April. •Photo by Aletta Verhey

ella High School was recently chosen as a testing site to compare students here with those from around the world.

Although it may not sound like much fun to take a test for half of a school day and still have to make up all of that work, Pella is one of the six schools in Iowa picked to take the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD.) Pella was most likely picked because of its high performance.

Students were tested in three areas: math, reading and science. The OECD, similar to the PISA test, is an international test that is STEM-related. Although the test itself was three-anda-half hours, students had breaks between each area.

“The questions varied. Some of them were hard, but most of them were fairly easy,” said freshman Ciara Buchheit.

About 250 students fit the requirement for testing; 85 were randomly picked, and around 65 were tested. The freshmen and sophomores were evenly dispersed.

Around 20 students turned down the offer to take the test, since it wasn’t absolutely required.

Many students didn’t want to miss their first half of the day, causing them to have to make-up work.

“I wanted to stay ahead of my classes and my daily homework,” said freshman Tyler Hillman.

OECD testing isn’t necessarily to compare with other states, but more so with around the world.

“We’re supposed to go to a summit this summer and talk about our results and actually look at everybody in the state and see what Iowa students did well, and what we need to work on,” said Principal Eric Nelson.

Results will be received in April.

•Natalie Meyer (nmeyer@pelladium.com)

FFAers work toward Iowa Degrees For junior and senior members of the Future Farmers’ for America (FFA), spending more time on paperwork than homework has become commonplace. Members are applying for an Iowa Degree, one of the highest accomplishments a member can receive. Iowa Degrees open up many opportunities for scholarships as well as looking great on a resumé.

The process to apply takes about four weeks. Students usually spend 16 hours on the 17-page application.

Although applying for an Iowa degree is a long process, Bowers encourages each FFA member to apply for an Iowa Degree.

“Students put in a lot of work in with their SAE project. This is a way for students to get recognition for all the hard work they put in and a way to show how they are influencing the community with the knowledge they are gaining with their project. As for the actual application, it’s good practice to write essays and the financial record keeping is useful for all parts of life,” said Bowers.

The last year has made it more difficult for students to apply

for an Iowa degree due to the changeover in teachers. Many did not have all records up-to-date. Regardless of this, juniors Cheyanne Van Donselaar and Shelby Holdeman have applied for an Iowa Degree. “[I applied for a FFA degree] because Mr. Bowers told me it would open up some scholarships, and it seemed like a great opportunity to expand my FFA experience,” said Van Donselaar.

Senior Jacob Beyer went through the application process and received his Iowa Degree last spring.

“I wanted to advance in the FFA organization. It is like moving up to another level, another prize, just like going from district champ to state champ in a sport. This also gives you another token to put on resume’s and other documents of importance,” said Beyer.

Students whose application is approved will receive recognition at the FFA State Convention April 29.

•Christina Gualtieri (cgualtieri@pelladium.com)

FFA members celebrated National FFA Week last week with a breakfast for faculty and staff, dress-up days and election of officers for the upcoming year. Junior Todd Van Dyke will be the group’s new president. Others officers are junior Kiley Elder, vice president; junior Kent Beyer, secretary; freshman Alex Weers, treasurer; freshman Amanda Stanley, parliamentarian; freshman Caleb Rietveld, reporter; sophomore Sara Aguilar, historian; and, freshman Chandler Jahner, sentinel. Jacob Bowers is the group’s advisor.

All-State speech performers named

Three large group speech events will be attending at Speech All-State Feb. 22 at Iowa State after achieving all-state status. The reader’s theatre of juniors Kody Beller, Colin Jones, Devin McCain and Eleanor Witt was named a performing group with their “Complete Works of William Shakespeare: Abridged and Revised.” Two non-performing groups include musical theatre “Young Frankenstein” (seniors Claire Anderson, Nathan Clayberg, Greg Frommelt, Tom Palmer and Aaron Van Maanen) and group improvisation (senior Jack Parisee, Clayberg, Frommelt and Van Maanen). Speech participants received seven overall “I” ratings at state.

Mango Tree plans April opening Showers bringing May flowers will come in April, but April will also have a grand opening of the new frozen yogurt shop.

Many Hands For Haiti (MH4H) will be opening up Mango Tree this coming April. The Mango Tree will provide high quality frozen yogurt.

Director of MH4H Tim Brand shared more about the opening of Mango Tree.

“We are excited to be bringing a high-quality, fun frozen yogurt shop to Pella with a purpose to serve our friends in Haiti. It truly is a win/win for our community and for the communities we work with in Haiti,” said Brand.

Proceeds are going to fund programs that are already established in Haiti. The shop gives Pella’s community the opportunity to get involved with helping the people of Haiti.

“All the profits and proceeds of this store will be going towards our work in Haiti. We know many people want to help, but we also know most actually won’t be able to go to Haiti,” said Brand.

This fun-filled froyo shop will be located where the Seer Outfitters shop is now. After a successful start to Many Hands Market in Spencer this past August, MH4H was encouraged to gain another mission based on business. This is a new and fun way to help the people of Haiti.

“I am very excited to experience the high quality yogurt. I think it’ll be very successful because everyone loves froyo,” said sophomore Jackson Scholten.

•Aletta Verhey (averhey@pelladium.com)

02.25. 2014

Current

Page Editor: Derrick Akers

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School strives to save 50 lives Curiosity may fill one’s mind when they hear Pella Community District’s new goal: saving 50 students’ lives.

According to school statistics, 90 percent of the district’s students reach the level to be successful according to district standards. 25 students per grade, in the 10 percent, don’t reach the level. The district’s goal is to cut that number in half. This means by 2018, 50 additional students who will have reached the level to be successful.

How is the district going to achieve this goal? Curriculum leaders have looked at other states as examples.

“The first piece is in the elementary. We are now in the process of overhauling how to teach kids to read. If the student can’t read, we don’t get them to the point we want them to be at,” said K-12 Curriculum Director Lowell Ernst.

The goal is already put into place. Ernst believes that this goal

will affect all five schools in the district, not only elementary schools. He strongly believes that it will immensely affect graduating high school students.

“For me, the district motto, “Maximizing Life’s Opportunity”, is that students get to choose what they want to do for a living. In order to have that, we want every student to be able to be accepted into a two year school, four year school, military, or receive a job in their chosen career pathway. If you’re getting out of high school, we are going to make sure you can be accepted into at least a community college,” said Ernst.

Many factors contributed to inspiring this goal. The district’s leadership team brainstormed ideas under the theme “what it means to be a complex thinker”. Ernst also read the book “Switch” by Chip and Dan Heath. The book explains how

Student council brings initiative back to Pella

In a society where anti-bullying messages pervade the news, social media and ultimately our very own lives, members of Pella High School’s student council have begun taking efforts to confront the problems that within the doors of their very own school.

After attending the state-wide Josten’s leadership conference in Des Moines this past November, student council representatives were inspired to create new programs and changes in specific for Pella High, itself. The conference featured the Lincoln native, Mike Smith.

Smith is the founder and current director of the nationwide organization, Skate for Change.

Among many messages, Smith promoted personal action to invoke a change in the teenage demographic.

Smith focuses his presentations around the 21st century issues that encompass many teens’ lives and concentrates on promoting communication and understanding with individuals that students normally wouldn’t. And Smith hits on some key points surrounding the issue of perception of today’s teenager. Although many schools around the country absolutely do have real problems with legitimate and physical bullying, Pella’s student council came to the consensus that the issue in their home ground was one of a similar breed. They felt the key problem in the high school social system, an extremely large, powerful and often ignored entity, was communication.

In a culture filled with innumerable methods of communication through digital technology, diagnosing the problems created in the High School system as a communication deficiency might seem improbable.

“Kids see someone walking down the hallway towards them that it would be uncomfortable to talk to and they revert to their phones and forms of communication and they hide,” said senior student council representative Brianna Buzick.

Communication can become exactly what Buzick explains, a hiding place. And in that, actual communication becomes the answer to the problems that the student council has discovered So, as planned for several days during the Spring, The Communication Project will take effect.

As a series of school wide assemblies, the project is planned to feature student performances and speeches, potentially a presentation from Mike Smith, small group communication work, and a celebration of much of the student accomplishments and achievements that often go unnoticed.

•Jack Parisee (Jparisee@pelladium.com)

one’s brain is ruled by two different systems: the rational mind and the emotional mind. Ernst believes this book encourages that if one pursues a goal, it is important to have an emotional side to achieve it. Using this method, district leaders hope this goal will be successful.

“We really feel like this mission statement is something you can touch and measure. Previous goals were hard to put in place, but this one is something we can really become excited for,” said Ernst.

The district hopes to save 50 students by 2018. They wish for support from members all throughout the community.

“I think the school won’t get this done by ourselves. Family and community really needs to embrace this goal and prioritize our education,” said Ernst.

Bellara Huang (Bhuang@pelladium.com)

Garland gives Grammys great review

The Grammys is one of the world’s best known music award shows, attracting more than 28 million spectators worldwide. Though most viewers watch the show on screen, Leah Garland, wife of social studies teacher Jerod Garland, had the opportunity to view the show in person.

“My sister entered a contest where she had to guess a song. She got placed into a drawing to win two tickets to the Grammys which she won,” said Garland.

877-462-3687 www.central.edu

Garland and her sister traveled on an allexpense-paid trip to Los Angeles, where the Grammys take place. Upon arrival at the hotel, Garland had an unexpected encounter celebrity Paris Hilton.

“I only saw one celebrity [face to face], and that was Paris Hilton. We were walking around in the hotel and saw her. We followed her around awhile and tried to take some pictures [of Hilton],” said Garland.

Many artists perform at the award show, such as Paul McCartney and Macklemore, Garland had her own opinion of who was best.

“The best performance was Pink. She was dropped out from the ceiling, which was interesting. There were some performances with fire, and it was just an all-around exciting experience,” said Garland.

After the entire experience, Garland had only one negative thought.

“The only thing I did not like about the trip was the seats. They were very high up, and we had to use binoculars to see the stage,” said Garland.

Garland travelled by car, plane and shuttle to her hotel in a total of 10 hours, though she feels like it was well worth it.

“If I had this opportunity I would definitely do it again. If I could get a twice-in-a-lifetime, I would sure do it over again,” said Garland.

•Jack Sytsma (jsytsma@pelladium.com)

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PAGE EDITOR: JACK PARISEE

FFA members prepare for competitions, futures

Current

Going to the State Leadership Conference is an honor that the members of the the Future Farmers of America (FFA) have the opportunity to take advantage of. Though the final State Conference doesn’t take place until Apr. 27, members have begun to prepare.

“To go to State Leadership Conference students will need to participate in one leadership Career Development Event (CDE), or win a Proficiency in their Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE) or receive their honorary Iowa FFA degree,” said FFA advisor, and supervisor for a contest, Jacob Bowers.

Proficiency awards are awarded to the members who kept financial records for their SAE. An SAE is a lengthy 24-page paper each FFA member must complete. The Iowa FFA degree is only for members who have good SAE records. Applicants have the ability to apply their junior and senior years of high school, possibly even their freshman year of college for the Iowa FFA Degree.

The teams and individuals attending the conference must place in the first or second in subdistricts, the round before districts. The subdistrict event will take place Feb. 24 at Twin Cedars High School. Students placing in this round will have the ability to go to districts.

“It [the leadership conference] was required for every FFA member to participate in an event, and I liked the idea of being involved and getting out of school because of it. This conference requires me to practice public speaking, a skill which I am very bad at, and to create things such as flyers and power points,” said FFA member sophomore Sara Aguilar.

At districts, the teams/individuals must place in the top two to advance to the State Leadership Conference. Districts will be March 8; the state leadership conference will be April 27-29.

The members have a total of eight weeks to prepare once the members find out whether or not they can attend subdistricts. Students who place in both subdistricts AND districts are able to attend the State Leadership Conference. At state, students compete against other students from the six districts involved. Judges will award the first five place finishes. The first and second place finishers are able to travel to the National FFA Convention in Louisville, Ken., in October.

In addition to the competitions, a college fair featuring Midwest agricultural colleges, leadership workshops and many other activities are planned.

“At the conference, I am a delegate to vote for state officers. I will go through shows and learn about certain colleges relating to FFA. We will explore college choices, allowing me to interact with other FFA friends,” said junior Shelby Holdeman.

After the preparation, subdistricts, districts, then finally state, students will have spent over two months of FFA related practice. Bowers still looks to the future.

“In the future, I hope to use my personal learning network in the local community and have community members help in the training of members for the completions and awards,” said Bowers.

•Jack Sytsma (jsytsma@pelladium.com)

02. 25. 2014

>>STUNT TIME. Senior Larissa Michalek, center, performs a stunt during the football season with the rest of her football cheer squad. Michalek was recently chosen as a member of the All-State Cheer squad, an elite group of cheerleaders from throughout the state.

Michalek chosen for All-State Cheer A member of the football cheerleading squad was recently named to the All-State cheerleading squad. Senior Larissa Michalek was selected to the 36-member squad, only the second member in school history.

Michalek has been cheerleading since eighth grade. She attributes her success to this in part.

“I did gymnastics for seven years, which played a huge part in my tumbling, flexibility, and athletics. Doing cheer since eighth grade helped of course and dancing for varsity (forte) all four years of high school has kept me very flexible and in shape,” said Michalek.

The girls auditioned with approximately 260 others.

“We learned a cheer and a little dance and had time to practice and eat lunch. Then in four’s we were numbered for our tryouts and then you went in with three other girls. You did jumps for the judges, the cheer, and the dance. And, if you could tumble, which I could, then we would show what we could do for that too,” said Michalek.

For Michalek, making the team means that one Sunday every month she and cheer coach Tracey Shull travel to Ames, where she learns and works on the cheer, along with the other members of the All-State team. The routine is very strenuous and will be performed at halftimes of the state basketball tournament March 14.

“All of the girls are amazing. It’s like the top 36, so it’s an honor to be on All-State, and I’ve worked so hard for it,” said Michalek •Claire Anderson (canderson@pelladium.com)

Mock Trial readies for competition

>>JAZZ I EARNS “I” RATING. Senior Tom Palmer stands for a bari saxophone solo during “Sophsticated Lady” at the IHSMA State Jazz Contest held Feb. 12. After two postponements due to weather, Jazz I, directed by Ben Thompson, earned its 33rd consecutive “I” rating in the contest. Jazz II received a II. “It was the best we’ve played our set so far. Now, we can start getting prepared for the [Iowa] Jazz Championships,” said junior Colin Jones. •Photo by Katie Canfield

2114 Washington Street Pella, IA 50219 641-628-1604

Mock: to mimic. Trial: Test. Put them together you get a group of teenagers arguing… positively!

Mock Trial is a simulated case where teams compete against each. Pella will compete in regionals in March in Cedar Rapids for the chance to go to state.

“I am excited because we have a really good team this year, and I think that we might have a really good chance to go to state, which we have never done before,” said senior Sydney Swanson.

The Mock Trial team received their new case for this year right before Christmas, a case about cyberstalking (harassing of someone else over the internet).

The team will practice under the leadership of gifted and talented coordinator Melissa Wimmer.

“We just have a really talented group of people, and we’ve done Mock Trial together for years, so we know each other’s strengths and weaknesses. It makes it really easy to work together and be successful,” said senior Brianna Buzick.

The team currently includes seniors Jake Dorman, Jack Parisee, Claire Anderson, Abby Fyfe, Tanner Phelps, Swanson and Buzick.

•Natalie Meyer (nmeyer@pelladium.com)

2014-15 school calendar set The 2014-15 Pella Community School District calendar has been released.

School begins on Wed., Aug. 22, while the planned last day of school is May 27. Winter Break is from Dec. 24 to Jan. 4. Spring Break is March 16-20.

According to Superintendent Greg Ebeling, next year school will be counted by hours instead of days. A total of 1120 hours is planned for Pella, with a state required 1080 hours.

As for this year, the district is at three snow days and counting. Make-ups are May 27, 28 and 29. If any further days are missed, make-up days include May 30, April 18, March 17, March 18 and then June 2, June 3 and June 4.

•Natalie Meyer (nmeyer@pelladium.com)

02. 25. 2014

Sports

>>Sophomore Aaron King prepares to finish the 100-yard butterfly in the meet at Newton Jan. 28. At the Feb. 16 state meet, the team set four new records in the 200-yard medley relay and 400-yard freestyle relay. Sophomore Isaak Webb set records in both the 100-yard butterfly and the 200-yard Individual Medley. •Photo by Ally Canfield

Boys’ swimmers dive into success Off they go, diving into the water. Once the gun sounds they seem to break every record this season. The team of sophomore Isaak Webb as well as home-schooled scophomore Aaron King, and home-schooled seniors Josh Bailey, Levi Heschke and Landon King.

This season they have broken many records and also received many first place awards in both individual races as well as relays. “[We have broken] three, the 400 freestyle relay, the 200 medley relay, and the 200 freestyle relay,” said Bailey.

All of these broken records come from the commitment that they have shown throughout the years.

“I have been on swim team since I was five. It has taken many hours of practice and dedication under a great coach and alongside great friends. This past season we have been practicing nine times per week, swimming two-to-three hours most days. With hard work and God’s blessing, we have gotten to where we are,” said Bailey.

They have become stronger as a group since they have been together for such a long period of time.

“Spending over 10 years participating in swimming, striving for higher goals together, and always pushing each other to do better has definitely helped weld our friendships even stronger together,” said Heschke.

Although they have had a successful year, they still have goals and aspirations for the remainder of their season.

“Personally, I hope to make it to state and break my older brother’s personal records in the 100 free and 50 free as well as break a few more relay records,” said Bailey.

“My goals are to make it to state in the 100 backstroke and the 100 fly and do my best to give all the glory to God, win or lose,” said Heschke.

•Garret Jansen (gjansen@pelladium.com)

Dutch add seven to coaching staffs New coaches have been added to the 2014 spring and summer rosters. Athletic Director Dale Otte commented on the hires.

Mike Vint, girls’ golf: “He coached golf for 25 years and Pella went to state nine times, winning it all in 1994. They were conference champions 12 times during his tenure. Mike brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to our girls program. He is known for his excellent instruction and communication on how to fundamentally play the game. He was inducted in the the Iowa Basketball Coaches Hall of Fame in 2010,” said Otte.

Lindsy (Blair) Brandt, varsity boys’ tennis: and Josiah Brandt, JV boys’ tennis: Lindsy and Josiah are recently married and will be bonding in marriage through coaching together.

Josh McCollum, varsity girls’ tennis: “Josh has the knowledge, experience and demeanor that we believe our girls’ tennis players will appreciate. He seems to be easy-going and

very approachable,” said Otte.

Kelsey (Schuring) Boot, assistant girls’ tennis: “We are excited that Kelsey can bring her experiences as a former Pella athlete and assist our girls in a positive tennis experience similar to what she enjoyed. We think the girls will relate well with her personality and drive,” said Otte.

Mitch Foster, JV/assistant varsity baseball: “Coach Foster’s background in baseball is at the catcher and outfield positions. Mitch is a ‘baseball guy’, he really loves the game and has a passion to teach the sport,” said Otte.

Ryan Doschadis, freshman baseball: “He has been an umpire for five years. Ryan is a baseball enthusiast - loves everything about the game and playing it the right way. Ryan is a very loyal Dutch fan and supporter and we feel he can contribute to this position for many years to come,” said Otte.

•Garret Jansen (gjansen@pelladium.com)

PAGE EDITOR: Garret Jansen

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Girls dominate weight room

When walking by the weight room after school, one might be surprised to see that amongst the sweat-soaked boys and blaring music, groups of girls can be found working out just as some of the muscular males in the room. Some may say the presence of girls in the weight room after school is no longer out of the ordinary, especially this year.

Four months before the first track meet of the season marked the beginning of preparation for some girls’ track members. Strength and conditioning four times a week has become a part of their schedules.

Track girls aren’t the only ones, however. The girls’ soccer team began workouts three times a week in the weight room plus open gym once a week in preparation for their upcoming season about three months before the first required practice is held at the end of March. With both girls’ track and girls’ soccer, women in the weight room are no longer a minority.

Last year, few girls could be seen preseason conditioning for spring sports after school amongst the boys; however, this year is different. Although some still did, the number of girls, especially freshmen, has taken flight this year. These athletes voluntarily put forth extra effort because of their belief for its positive impact on the upcoming season. The dramatic increase in track girls lifting excites senior track captain Klaire Wisniewski.

“I’m really excited about our team this year because we’re going to be really good, especially since so many girls are making the effort to get better before the season even begins,” said Wisniewski.

Track coach Dak Rasmussen encouraged girls on the team to participate in this opportunity; however due to contact rules, the workouts are optional and led by senior leaders.

“Really, the only thing I did was to make the girls more aware of the opportunity. I think the main selling point has been the success of the girls who have participated the last few years,” said Rasmussen.

Another reason for more female athletes participating in preseason conditioning could also be due to the change in workout plans. Soccer player, sophomore Ally Canfield, feels girls have more authority in the weight room.

“Last year we did a bunch of circuit training, and it was really boring and repetitive. This year we have a set plan and a sheet just like the boys do, so it feels like we have more authority in the weight room, rather than just girls that want to get in shape,” said Canfield.

The girls’ extra effort can be seen at the first indoor track meet at Grinnell College Mar. 14 and the first girls’ soccer game in April.

“I love to see this level of dedication to the sport,” said Rasmussen.

•Megan Kooker (mkooker@pelladium.com)

Cutler wins Coach of the Year Having responsibility over 100 people would not be ideal for most. For cross country coach Doug Cutler, it is a blessing. Cross country has been growing exponentially, with more students joining each year.

Cutler, a math teacher, was awarded “Coach of the Year” for both the boys’ and girls’ cross country teams. This award was voted on by other coaches in the state.

“I feel a lot of pride in what the student athletes do. I wouldn’t be recognized if the team didn’t do well, and the students shine a light on the coaching,” said Cutler. “It has so much to do with everyone on the team.

Although it has my name on the award, I consider it more of a team award.”

When 100 people interact together every day, challenges are inevitable.

“It’s meeting the needs for each individual athlete. With 100 plus people on the team, I try to meet all of those needs,” said Cutler.

“My personality is more introverted, which makes it challenging for me. It takes a lot of

thought and energy to be a vocal leader for the team.”

Some coaches might find that having a large team is a burden, but that is not the case for Cutler.

“Having a large team is absolutely a blessing. I think it’s tremendously important for students to feel involved in the school, so more people involved the better,” said Cutler.

“I think the students, the school and me personally all benefit from it. I love it.”

Senior Tanner Phelps has been a part of cross country all of his high school career.

“It’s really hard to coach a team as large as ours, but Mr. Cutler is still able to make every single person feel like an equal part of the team,” said Phelps. “He also has broken each part of the season down to a science so that we can perform our best. I’m really glad that he was recognized for all the great things he does for our team!”

•Aaron Van Maanen (avanmaanen@pelladium.com)

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PAGE EDITORS: Derrick Akers and Ben Konfrst

>>Student survey overview To gather this information, a survey was taken during the lunch hours. There was a total of 175 responses, giving the results that are shown. We asked students their current relationship status, how many relationships they have been involved in, if they knew anyone who is sexually active, if they have been sexually active and how many partners they have had given the previous is true. We took the data that we found most intriguing and is shown in the graphics below.

In Focus

Relationships in numbers

Relationships hold strong despite distance High school relationships are nothing unusual. Dating can be an exciting part of the high school experience. Sometimes these relationships branch out beyond those within school.

High school students may find themselves staying in relationships or beginning relationships with those out of high school.

“The hardest part about having a long distance relationship is probably just the fact that the other person lives in a totally different world, and it is hard to understand exactly what their life is always like,” said senior Lukas Steenhoek, who is dating 2013 graduate Marlee Bokhoven.

Steenhoek and Bokhoven have been dating for 8 months.

Bokhoven is a freshman at University of Northern Iowa (UNI).

Many students dating older people find this to be true.

The dynamic of high school is very different from college or working life. Even for couples still in Pella, the dynamic changes when one student graduates.

“Well, Josh (Hileman) is working in Pella, so he still is

in town but just not at school. But at school I get to spend more time with friends and talk about girly things. I do get to see him sometimes, but not as often,” said junior Kailyn Hackman, who is dating 2013 graduate Josh Hileman.

Hileman is working in Pella at Precision Pulley & Idler (PPI).

Understanding the life of a person who is in a different stage of life is always difficult. Living at home with your parents and attending high school every day is so drastically different from being in the college or working world. However, for many student this difference is easily overcome.

“Our relationship is much different now than it was in high school, but we make it work. It’s worth it because we have been through so much together and he is my best friend. I couldn’t imagine life without him,” said Bokhoven.

•Claire Anderson (canderson@pelladium.com)

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02. 25. 2014

Students weigh in on high school dating Longest Relationship

Understandably, Valentine’s Day shines a spotlight on happy couples all around the world, magnifying them through the giving and receiving of extravagant gifts, oversized singing cards and hearts of chocolate. High school is no exception.

However, it may be surprising to find out high schoolers who aren’t wrapped up in all the hype of Valentine’s Day “romance” still exist. These people are often overlooked, ignored even, avoiding the spotlight run by society.

Yet, it may be even more shocking to find out the absence of a relationship during the Valentine’s Day season, and for a whole high school career for that matter, is not caused by the inability to “get a girlfriend or boyfriend,” but simply by choice.

According to students who opt to not conform to dating in high school, this choice is made for many reasons. Obvious issues, such as avoiding pregnancy, play a role in rationalizing these students’ decisions, but there exists deeper, underlying reasons for why some students cannot be swooned.

One of the biggest reasons roots from perspective. Some see dating as the step before marriage. This causes senior Abby Fyfe to personally view dating in high school as something not worthwhile for her.

“I choose not to date mostly because I believe it to be rather pointless. I see dating as the way to find who you want to marry, and in high school, people really aren’t ready to get married soon,” said Fyfe.

Fyfe also considers the consequences of a break-up. She believes most people will not find their future husband or wife at a young

age, making the fun that could be had while dating no longer worth the potential heartbreak afterwards.

“If you don’t get married, there is one more possibility, and that is that you get hurt when you break up. I’d just prefer to not put myself in one of those situations,” said Fyfe.

Morals, maturity and religion also play a role. Senior Rachel Street considers dating to be something strictly based around spirituality.

“I believe that if you’re going to date, it should be on a spiritual maturity level. I haven’t reached that yet, and I don’t think many high schoolers have,” said Street.

Even students with significant others understand the reasoning behind people who are unwilling to date. However, they see a way around it. As free time can become sparse with busy schedules, dating can affect other parts of one’s life, including grades.

“My grades got considerably worse with a girlfriend, but I’m starting to find a good balance between school and my social life.

You’re also young, and you can have fun without getting serious,” said sophomore Brad Bortscheller.

Although avoiding a high school relationship in general can result in less stress, hardships also arise. Many of the students admitted to second-guessing their decisions, but they remember they won’t be in high school forever.

“At times it can become awkward being single, and some people just don’t understand, but I really feel it is important to hold out for the right guy,” said senior Karli Bruxvoort.

•Megan Kooker (mkooker@pelladium.com)

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PAGE EDITOR: Claire Anderson

Opinion

02. 25. 2014

The Bottom Line •A column by Christina Gualtieri

Dating! Relationships! Boyfriends and Girlfriends! This seems to be all the talk in February, with Valentine’s Day being smack dab in the middle of it. With all the talk about relationships and dating, I thought it would be a good time to talk about my personal views on dating.

To put it in three words: I don’t date. No, I’m not planning on living alone with 50 cats because of my views on dating. To make sure I don’t confuse anyone, let me rephrase: I don’t think dating in high school is the best choice for me. Don’t get me wrong; if you have a boyfriend or girlfriend, good for you. I’m not trying to preach to you and tell you to not date, because it’s your life. Do whatever you want. Dating in high school may even be a great choice for you.

However, I made this decision after thinking and praying about it for a long time. I have decided not to date in high school for several reasons.

First of all, relationships take up a LOT. OF. TIME. I’ve seen it with my friends multiple times. I’ll ask one of them to hang out and she’ll say, “Sorry, I already have plans with my boyfriend.”

Well, okay. But you had plans with your boyfriend two days ago last time I wanted you to come hang out with me. Even when they’re not with their boyfriend, they’re probably texting him or talking about him. Not all relationships are clingy like this, but nonetheless relationships take a lot of time up I could use on doing other things (like writing this column).

The other reason I have decided not to date is because I believe the purpose of dating, at

Commentary: “Same love” debate continues

With the battle and controversy surrounding gay rights pushing further and further into the forefront of societal dialogue, the topic has undoubtedly raised questions and prompted opinions from young people across the world. Following rap artist Macklemore’s performance of ‘Same Love’, a gay rights anthem, at the 2014 Grammys, teens throughout the country fled to Twitter to give their own input on the subject.

It spread even further as Michael Sam, a linebacker for the Univesity of Missouri football team came out as openly gay, in addition to “Juno” actress, Ellen Page’s emotional coming out speech at a human rights convention in early February. A key twenty-first century question asked of high schoolers, many have begun to answer the question. Is same-sex love the ‘Same Love’?

“And I can’t change, even if I tried, even if I wanted to,” sings Mary Lambert in the anthem whose message has permeated the stereos, televisions and minds of millions, and more particularly, many within the walls here in Pella.

As of April 2013, the scientific community declared their official stance on the biological and psychological reasons for homosexuality. Although many argue that being homosexual is an issue of sin and of choice, the American Psychological Association has officially stated that conclusive research dictates that homosexuality is not a matter of decision. The only decisions being made regarding the issue, are those of acceptance.

Regardless of religious beliefs or opinions, there is no doubt to be had in the fact that not accepting same-sex love is destructive to a community of indivduals where struggle seems to be around every turn. Numerous studies have shown that lesbian, gay, and bisexual youth have a higher rate of suicide attempts than do heterosexual youth. The Suicide Prevention Resource Center synthesized these studies and estimated that between 30 and 40% of LGBT youth, depending on age and sex groups, have attempted suicide.

In today’s culture of social networking, teenagers have more opportunities than ever before to contribute to the conversation surrounding the topic. Providing both positive and negative contributions to social and political issues, Twitter and Facebook alike have continued to further student expression. Conversations regarding the topic have been spread widely across the spectrum of social acceptance.

In a small, conservative town such as Pella, many might expect a staunch and solid resistance to the topic of same-sex acceptance. However, the existing culture has been much more of an even battlefield, providing strong support for both arguments.

Unfortunately, the argumentative battlefield has begun to take the form of physical violence and ridicule. Following a presentation about political issues that motivated students for a U.S. government course, senior Alex Moore encountered a violent reaction to his expression in support for same-sex marriage.

“I felt like the presentation I gave in class was very respectful to the other side of the argument. It’s something I feel strongly about, so I felt like [same-sex marriage] was a great topic to support,” explained Moore. “After the period ended, I was walking out of the classroom and was shoved up against the wall and assaulted, while being called gay slurs. I’m not even gay, I’m just supportive,” he described.

Following the incident, assault charges were filed with the Pella Police Department.

In an issue regarding love, I’m consistently amazed at the amount of hate that spurs from the topic. Showing no signs of slowing in the argumentative arena, the topic will continue to provide healthy and unhealthy dialogue until the society-wide question of ‘Same Love’ is finally answered. In the meantime, it would appear to me that the only ‘correct’ stance is that of love and acceptance. Anything else is only contributing to the impediments that lie in the way of those who simply want to experience undeniable, human, and same love.

•Jack Parisee (steven.parisee@student.pella.k12.ia.us)

least for me, is to find a spouse. When I eventually do begin a relationship, I will ask myself “Can I see myself marrying this person one day?” If the answer is no, I won’t even begin that relationship. Right now, I’m not looking to find a husband. I’m 16 and I have my whole life ahead of me. Sure, I’ve planned my wedding on Pinterest, but hasn’t every other teenage girl? I haven’t even really began to think about marriage and that sort of thing, so I know I’m not ready to start looking for a spouse.

Also, plain and simple, I don’t want to get my heart broken when I can altogether avoid it.

I’ve never had it happen to me, but I’ve seen my friends go through some really messy break-ups and it looks awful. The bottom line is this: you’re either going to break up with this guy/girl that you’ve invested time and money and your emotions in, or you are going to marry him/her. Are you prepared for that?

So, yes, dating looks fun, and for some people, it’s the right choice. Maybe your relationship will make you a better person or whatever. But I have made the choice to not date in high school and will wait until later in my life when I can ask myself, “Can I see myself marrying him?” If the answer is yes, I’ll go for it. Here’s the thing: even if you’re in high school and you say you are in love with this fantastic person, if it’s meant to happen, it will and one day you’ll be at that church alter. If it isn’t meant to happen, it won’t. I’m trusting in this and that one day God will show me the right person.

As for now, my life is busy enough.

Staff Editorial

As Valentine’s Day drew near recently, couples were busy making plans, concerned about flowers and restaurant reservations. However, it’s now time to go back to what makes a strong relationship. Just like a towering skyscraper that survives the sun and snow, relationships need to be built on a strong foundation. Where the image is blurred is what makes up that foundation.

Society is constantly giving us two extremes. Either we need to be completely in love with our significant other as teenagers and be together till the end of time or we can get by with being in a relationship that is purely physical. Whichever one we decide to participate in, if it comes to an end, someone will walk away broken-hearted. Maybe modern day society is wrong, and we should stop taking relationship advice from celebrities who are on the verge of their third divorce and start admiring grandparents celebrating their 60th year of marriage.

We are not saying that everyone is going to find their soulmate tomorrow or in high school.

However, meeting people can prepare us for what we might want in a future spouse. Stepping back and looking at past relationships, we are able to pinpoint things we preferred and things we disliked about them or even attributes that were stronger while others were weak.

This brings us to the necessary qualities in a healthy relationship. While we should be attracted to the other person and hopefully interested in other traits such as humor or talents, we are cutting deeper than the surface ideas. To start, respect needs to be mutual, whether it is opinions, boundaries, or even how we treat our significant other. It’s crucial to have an understanding between the two, which brings us to communication. No issue is going to be solved if neither one expresses feelings.

In our day and age, communication is difficult in the first place. We are able to easily hide behind cellphones and computers than face-to-face interaction, and confronting a problem is a struggle for teenagers. Communication is hard to master, but once there is an effort, there will be results.

Trust follows communication, a need for confirmation that what is being said is the truth.

Many sides exists to trust: the ability to trust that there is commitment, respect, truth and loyalty.

Loyalty is one of the last pillars of a healthy relationship. Everyone desires someone who will be loyal to them and will deny other temptations or slander that may rise amidst the relationship.

If there is loyalty, then there will be trust, which will create communication and form a sense of mutual respect.

While the worry of Valentine’s Day was on everyone’s minds, it’s important for us to acknowledge that flowers, cards and a nice dinner, does not make a relationship perfect. To know the qualities of a healthy relationship may help our current relationships and others to come, romantically or not. Either way, it’s important to remember the basics more than just that one day in February.

The Pelladium staff voted 11-0 in favor of this editorial.

Editorial Cartoon

•Micah Criscuolo

02. 25. 2014

OPINION

The Lit t le

Guy

The Other Side

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•A column by Greg Frommelt

•A column by Derrick Akers It seems like yesterday... the emotion, the pain, the confusion, I can recall it without much effort. I’ll never forget the words, “Blake was in a car accident and he didn’t make it.”

Those words changed my life forever, the way I look at life, the way I view my friends, and my goals in life.

Two years after Blake’s death, there still isn’t a day that passes without me thinking of him. The pain is still there and I find myself thinking, “Blake would love this,” or “Blake would know exactly what to do in this situation.” Of course most of the situations I would ask for his help involved girls and relationship advice that he was willing to give, whether it was wise or not. Blake always knew what to do, or he would lead you to believe he did.

I often think about what Blake would be doing if he was here, who he would be friends with, who he would have became close to over the four years of high school. What sports he would have played and had success in. I wonder if he would have learned how to control those long arms and awkward shot to be effective. I also think about what my life would be like if Blake hadn’t driven back to the school that night, I wonder if I would have the friends that I have or would have dated the girls that I did.

At this point, I would give a lot up to see Blake again, to hear his voice yell out, “Eh yo babe,” as he walked into a room and lit it up with his smile. To play basketball with him or to play “Madden” one more time would mean the world to me. Everyday there is something that reminds me of him and for a second, it can shut me down, putting me in a place of

Page Editor: Christina Gualtlieri

sadness that can’t compare to anything I have ever felt.

Moving forward in my life, I can see God working through his death. Because of the car accident I have found a home away from home at TEC (Teens Encountering Christ) and I have found friends who truly care about me and want nothing but the best for me.

Although it did not seem like it at the time, God was working through Blake’s death to change people for the good and lead them ultimately to find Christ. His death brought together a town that otherwise goes their separate ways, something that I have never seen in any town. For one week, everything was stopped and only love was poured out, to everyone.

I live in honor of Blake. I use his death as motivation to be a better person everyday, because you never know when it’ll be your last. In a Kid Ink song he says, “Gotta live for today because I could die where I stand.”

This is what his death taught me. I could get in an accident tonight and be gone from this earth for good. I try to make sure that I’m ready for that, I want to know that if I died tonight I’d leave the earth happy with the life I lived, leaving without regrets. Everyday I tell my parents I love them because who knows what could happen later that day? Maybe that will be the last time I see them. I don’t want to leave without them knowing how much I care about them.

Today is the only thing we have, so don’t waste it. Don’t take a day off or breeze by because it’s hard or takes too much effort.

Today could be your last day. Do you want to go out without a bang?

The movement in the Bible Belt is among the most drastic trends seen in recent times.

The town we live in is right in the middle of it all.

One aspect that I would like to address is the supposed war on scientific theory and process. This is seen clearly through the evolutionary debate and the age of the earth.

In truth, I have no reason to convince anyone either way, but so many speak on the topic with ignorance.

Nothing angers me more than when I hear the statement, “Evolution is only a theory.”

As if the fact that it is a not considered a law means something. This statement is based on misunderstanding of what the scientific process is and what is meant by a theory.

The simplest way to separate a theory from a law is this: a theory explains how or why something happens, a law tells us what will happen. For example, the Law of Gravity tells us that if we drop a ball, it will fall to earth. The Theory of Gravity per se is actually in Einstein’s Theory of General Relativity that explains why objects are attracted to each other, with a correct hypothesis and conclusion.

Therefore, the Theory of Evolution we argue about cannot become a law. However, as is true with all theories, it proposes a hypothesis that is supported by evidence and continues to change and adapt slightly to accommodate newer evidence and ideas.

The lack of education concerns me with some sects of the new Christian Fundamentalists in the Bible Belt.

These groups are strong and may be seen as forceful in their beliefs. Often times you see

that they have spent no time exploring their beliefs but rather have been indoctrinated with it at a young age. In other words, have been raised in their beliefs and not been presented with any alternatives.

This is done by censoring the television, the people they listen to, the facts that they hear and even the schools they attend. They have never been opened to other options.

What they hear from their pastor and parents is seldom questioned. The beliefs do not change with time and remain rooted without compromise for others or logic. The same becomes true for their beliefs.

Beliefs in these sorts of environments are untested. It is perfectly healthy and right to ask the questions: Why do I believe in God? What is it that I believe? Should this Bible be taken literally? Now I understand these questions are asked, but they are answered by the people around them rather than the individual.

This relates with how easy it is for many to travel to foreign countries to aid those in need because it is exciting and “obvious”. Many of these same people find it difficult to reach out a helping hand to those struggling right in front of them, in our community because these beliefs are not part of them, they are part of the environment they have been raised in, the environment they have become a slave to.

We have the fortune to live in a place where we are free to believe in what we want. This privilege should not be wasted on sticking to the beliefs we have been taught, but taking advantage to form one’s beliefs not only in their mind, but in their heart. That is where it truly matters.

What is the most important quality in a significant other?

•Ben Konfrst (Bkonfrst@pelladium.com)

Freshman Ryan Van Wyk “I look for a good sense of humor in a mate.”

Sophomore Sarah Coppock “The biggest thing I look for is a strong faith.”

Junior Brian Rundle “Be as close to Aaron Van Mannen as humanly possible.”

Senior Sami Wassenaar “A great sense of humor. He has to be able to make me laugh.”

Pelladium Staff Executive Editors: Derrick Akers, Jake Dorman, Greg Frommelt, Ben Konfrst, Sarah Muller Page Editors/Reporters: Claire Anderson, Christina Gualtieri, Garret Jansen, Megan Kooker, Jack Parisee, Frommelt, Muller, Konfrst, Akers, Jake Dorman Reporters: Joshua Da, Corey Elliott, Bellara Huang, Natalie Meyer, Andrew Pavlat, Jack Systma, Aaron VanMaanen, Aletta Verhey, Jake Dorman Business Manager/Social Media Manager: Marissa Borgerding Cover Page: Ben Konfrst Adviser: Ann Visser The 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. These letters must be signed and should, in no way, be libelous, irresponsible or obscene. Letters must have verified facts and should deal with issues. The 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. •The Pelladium will strive to deliver information in a fair and truthful manner. The Pelladium will function in accord with all applicable laws, both in regard to the rights and restrictions of journalism. •The 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. •The 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. •The Pelladium is a member of the Iowa High School Press Association

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PAGE EDITOR: Megan Kooker

Review:

Entertainment

02.25.2014

FedEx Day doesn’t measure up

L

ike many seniors, when I heard about the FedEx day my first reaction was “Sweet!

No school!” Unfortunately, I was somewhat confused with the concept, because soon I was disillusioned and told we would be required to do schoolwork at home. This struck me as being a bit off. Earlier this year I remember calling the school when my car would not start in the morning, and they informed me they would send a van out just to get me. I explained how all my assignments are online and that being at the school would yield little benefit. Still, Principal Eric Nelson told me that they needed me here, because I’d be missing out on too much at home. Now, three months later they’re telling us the exact opposite. To me, that seems pretty hypocritical, and if there is one thing I dislike more than school, it is hypocrisy (well, that and murder, kidnapping, etc.)

Another issue I had with this day was the name, FedEx day. Was it sponsored by FedEx? Was it to celebrate the glorious birth of our lord and savior FedEx? I’m sure these answers could be found with one Google search (or Bing, if you’re into that), but I’ve got so much to do today that there is no time for that kind of frivolous endeavor. My hope is that FedEx is going to back all funding for our school from now on. Pella High will now be FedEx High. There would be no more Little Dutchmen; instead, we’d be the little-to-no cost on shipping. Isn’t free market capitalism just great?

My FedEx day experience started out the same way I imagine it did for all seniors. I sat down in front of my computer to begin work-

ing. After 20 minutes waiting for my computer to say good morning/awkwardly ask me how my weekend went, I began to realize this was a little different from having a teacher. I began to work quietly, hiding my texting from no one in particular, and soon I was off to the proverbial races. Fortunately for me, my workload wasn’t as bad as most. Only classes that were predominantly full of seniors were given homework, and since half my classes are junior/senior, I only had a half day of work to complete. I began to notice a few similarities between my house and the school. For example, neither have bells or working clocks.

However I’ll admit my father’s morning announcements were twice as long and about half as informative as the school’s counterpart.

This whole situation began to feel pretty surreal to me. How can I be doing schoolwork at home? I began to question what is truly real and what wasn’t. After several hours of intense soul-searching I figured I should probably do some of my assignments. I first wanted to ask my mother, who works from home, what she thought of FedEx day.

“Jake, I’m trying to work and you have stuff to do. Go do your assignments,” said past high school student/world’s best mom Lori Koop.

Clearly, she was pretty confused with the whole situation, too. All-in-all, the FedEx day was somewhat successful. The school was able to coyly tell us they didn’t want us there for a day, and I was able to sleep in till 11. Everybody wins (I mean, besides the kids who wanted to learn things).

• Jake Dorman (jdorman@pelladium.com)

From sweaters to crop tops: >>How to spruce up your spring wardrobe

W

inter is known to host dull colors. The festive colors of Christmas embrace a short season, and crimson reds are displayed for Valentine’s Day to reflect one’s loving heart. However, spring flowers are coming.

It’s time to prepare for melting snow and 75 degree days. We have the list of trends to replace the sweaters and scarves cluttering closets everywhere.

1) Cut-Outs. A shirt may seem simple in pattern and appearance, but what a shock it would be to turn around to reveal cut outs in the fabric. Whether it’s circles, hearts or triangles, cut-outs will be cutting out their places in stores everywhere.

2) Blush. That faint hope of spring after a bitter cold winter can only be best described in this color. Even when those freezing winds make their occasional appearances, this color will warm up any mood you’re in.

3) Floral. The print that has been around for ages. With different variations and types, it’s no surprise that floral is coming around for another season. With skirts, tops, cardigans and even pants, floral is taking over, and it’s time to fit the fad.

4) Button-Up’s. On the mornings when the alarm didn’t go off and only 20 minutes is spared to focus on hair or the outfit of the day, no worries. No need to sacrifice one’s looks.

Just throw on a button up shirt with a pair of jeans and layer on the jewelry. Easy, breezy and done sheekly.

5) Crop tops. Don’t worry Mom, we can always wear tank tops underneath or a cardigan on top if the weather forbids it. This article of clothing gives you a hint of summer to hold you over until that final bell rings.

•Sarah Muller (smuller@pelladium.com)

>>Regina Linn’s English class received “Most Likely to Have Treats,” and Valentine’s Day was no exception. This time, however, the students were not being penalized, they were simply celebrating. Freshmen Ben Lauritsen and Luke Schemm enjoy the “treat-promising” class. “I enjoy it because we get to have an energizing snack during class,” said Lauritsen. •photo by Megan Kooker

An unofficial poll...

Students choose best, worst locations

A

s the Best of Marion County awards have been recently given, the Pelladium staff, with the help of student contributions, have compiled the best and worst of high school locations.

Class Most Likely to Have Treats: Regina Linn’s English

When passing the well-known English class, one will most likely hear the continuous chant of “Treats, treats, treats!” This is something English most students hear on a daily basis. Two options are offered by Linn when a student performs a wrongdoing: serve a detention or bring treats. Most of the wrongdoings are simple mistakes, such as forgetting one’s book, blurting out in class, or saying something rude.

Most Uncomfortable Staircase: Staircase by Technology Help Center

Most students do a double take when they walk through the closed stairwell alone. Perhaps it is the eerie silence or the pushing of heavy doors that causes many to claim this staircase “creepy.” The staircase does not attract many, due to the awkward setting.

Most Comfortable Room: Journalism

As Smokey Row has received Best Cup of Coffee Award, the high school also has a room that serves warm coffee to students. Does any other class have two comfortable couches, one nice rocking chair, an unbelievable ceiling and spacious tables? Several windows bring in light, creating a relaxed atmosphere. Don’t forget the air conditioning in the heat.

Worst PDA Spot: Senior Hall

The Best Gathering Place Award was given to Pella’s West Market Park. However, in the high school, the award goes to the senior hall. The senior hall, being the most busy hallway, is always cluttered with people walking into the building, traveling down the stairs, and is, especially, a hotspot for couples. One can always find students holding hands and talking in groups, causing the hall to be even more crowded. Couples talk at the foot of the middle staircase and lean on the pillar, collecting awkward glances from passers-by.

Best Place to Park: Senior Lot

Proximity is what it’s all about when it comes to parking. Seniors “earn” this privilege by virtue of their class standing. This lot is especially nice during bad weather as students have just a short walk to the school. So much for the sophomores who get their daily exercise by walking from either the sophomore lot or the church/skatepark lots.

•Bellara Huang (bhuang@pelladium.com)

Gold Sponsors - Pella High School Publications Boat’s Home Furnishings, 620 Franklin Street Brom Auto Service & Sales, 202 Main Street Dr. Gregory Vannucci, 2601 Washington Street G & B Concrete & Foundation Repair, 2174 Coolidge Street

Great Clips, 1586 Washington Street Iowa Bike & Fitness, 814 Main Street Jansen’s Decorating & Kitchens, 614 Franklin Street Klyn Law Office, Vincent S. Klyn, 729 Main Street Leighton Processed Meats, 227 Otley Street, Leighton Midtown Tire, 109 East Oskaloosa Street

Pella Orthodontics, Dr. Kim Wass, 715 Main Street Pella Pets & Veterinary Clinic, 411 Oskaloosa Street Precision Pulley & Idler Inc., 300 SE 14th Street Royal Amsterdam Hotel, 705 East 1st Street Tri-County Veterinary Clinic, 650 Hwy. T14 Triumph Martial Arts 308 SE 9th Street Ulrich Motor, 1130 West 16th Street Van Hemert Chiropractic Center, 1310 East Washington Street Van Sant Collision Repair, 80 Truman Road Wiskus Group, 821 Franklin Street Van Gorp Corporation, 1410 West Washington Street

02.25.2014

Entertainment HOW to ...

2 3 4 5

PAGE EDITOR: JR Dorman

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LEAN AGAINST LOCKERS: The classic cool guy position. We all know it. If you strike this pose at least three times a day I guarantee that the chicas will start to notice you much more than before.

The magical night is approaching. The dance is the main focus of prom, but there are many events that lead up to it. One of the most exciting moments is asking for a date to prom, and April 5 is quickly approaching. For some, this may seem like a daunting task. If that applies to you, try any of these tactics and you will surely get a prom date, unguaranteed.

1

Poetry: This is the most common and classic way to ask for a prom date.

Here are a few samples, and yes gentlemen, you may use them. “Roses are red, violets are blue, if we went to prom together, that would be cool. Like really cool! I’ll pay for your dinner. Thanks.” I know it’s golden and will be sure to get you a date. I will provide one more option if the first sure-fire poem didn’t work. “Please, please go to prom with me. Thanks.” If these poems do not get you a date, I will have a personal conversation with you because something has to be going wrong.

2

High School Musical Style: I was once forced to watch “High School Musical 3”, and after watching it for the fourth time in a row, I had a realization. The way Chad asks Taylor to prom is fool-proof. All you have to do is silence the lunchroom, have a basketball on your hip (optional), stand on the lunchroom table and ask your date to prom. Have a few friends planted in the lunchroom that resemble Zac Efron to encourage your soon-to-be date to accept your invitation. I will aid you in this task, because we are all in this together.

sad.”

crazy.

HEAD BOB; WINK: Whenever a girl says anything to you, the thing you respond with needs to be accompanied with a little chin lift and wink. For example, “HEY! Sorry, to hear about your dog dying”. Response *head bob *wink, “Yeah, I am really EAT: Eat a ton of food. Girls are so impressed when you can eat a ton. I think it is some sort of primal instinct untouched by evolution that makes you seem manly or something. Anytime a girl you want to impress is near, grab a pork chop and go

BODY ODOR: Another primal instinct left over. Since it is now against the law to urinate in public, the best way to get your scent to the female gender is to make sure they can smell your manliness. By the way, if you disagree with anti-public urination laws, I plan on starting a petition. I mean, come on government. My scent has got to spread!

•Gregory Frommelt (gfrommelt@pelladium.com)

Josh Draws with Josh Da

3

Class Email: I don’t want to label this as a last resort, but it is the fastest way to get your question out to the female population of our school. As you may have received many mass emails from multiple classes, you have to make your email stand out from the rest. Label it as “An offer you can’t/might refuse.”

Enticing yet mysterious.

I’m going to get flowers, a box of chocolates and the works, all in a plan that will surely work!

These three methods to get a prom date radiate perfection. Gentlemen, when you follow my advice and get a prom date, remember these tips: open car doors, pay for the meal and make your date feel like a queen. Prom creates fantastic memories, and it is just around the corner.

•Aaron Van Maanen (avanmaanen@pelladium.com)

How about just saying I love you?

The quest for a significant other in high school seems to be almost constant. Guys are always attempting to impress girls and to get themselves a woman. Now, perhaps I can not speak too much from experience on this topic, but perhaps that is why I can now understand it best. Here are my five ways to get a girl.

1

LOW EXPECTATIONS: For some reason a guy thinks he needs to go for the equivalent of Vanessa Hudgens in “High School Musical” when he is looking for a girlfriend. You want to have a shot. Aim low. Even if you miss, you will hit something.

TWItTEN BY 1.

Top Tweets for February

Ethan Butler - @SpeedyButler My dog just ran in to my room, pooped, and ran out. #thanks

2.

Emma Thoreson - @emma_thoreson Dear god please give me strength and endurance to get more than 7 on flappy bird. In your name I pray, amen.

3.

Jordan Pingel - @jordan_pingel WILL ONE OF YOU JUST SAY SOMETHING SO THAT YOU STOP GIVING UP ON EACH OTHER AND THEY CAN STOP PLAYING THIS SONG ON THE RADIO?!

4. Elyse Sadler - @ElyseSadler

I can’t wait to get into my car so I can rip a big one.” -Katie

5.

Seth Johnson - @Seth_Johnson007 When in doubt, flappy bird it out

6. Leah Wilborn - @LeahWilborn1

what if one day every single woman in the whole world synced up and was on the same cycle...I think that’s how the world is gonna end

7.

Macy Nossaman - @macynossaman I’m having a slumber party and gossiping with 10 year olds.

8.

Mike Roozeboom - @poopymuffins That moment when you have more bowls of ice cream than you have friends……

9.

Sami Wassenaar - @sami_wassenaar My mom just called a pom pom a spirit glove and that is why I get so confused when people say we act alike

10. Brad Bortscheller - @SpottedTortoise

I had to use Christmas wrapping paper on my dad’s birthday presents. #1stWorldProblems •Aletta Verhey (averhey@pelladium.com)

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PAGE EDITOR: Sarah Muller

Picture This

02.25.2013

While one may feel cooped up with the snow and freezing winds, the snow will soon be melting.

Even though Iowa weather is unpredictable, these are a few suggestions to keep one social during these last few weeks of hibernation.

•Band Concert. Feb. 28 brings many winter concerts, including band. While it’s too late for the band to march on the football field and too early for them to parade the streets in preparation for Tulip Time, one can still hear them perform late this month coming off Jazz I’s “I” rating at state contest.

Junior Mandy Nossaman practices for a performance. “I’m really excited for the upcoming band concert because we are performing a lot of fun songs. We have a variety of tunes that you can’t hear any other place,” said senior Tom Palmer. •Photo by Katie Canfield

•State Individual Speech. March 15 the fight for straights ones at state is on. From monologues to public address speeches students in speech team will travel to North Scott High School to compete against other schools for an all-state title. Tag along to watch some of the best actors in the state. “Individual speech is like group speech, but you are all by yourself so it’s less fun but it’s really good. I’m excited to show my individual abilities and be the star I know I can be,” said sophomore Craig Miller.

•“Les Misérables.” From March 21- Feb. 13, attend the Des Moines Playhouse production of “Les Misérables” featuring senior Jack Parisee.

Including signature numbers such as “On My Own” and “I Dreamed a Dream,” this legendary musical is coming off the silver screen and onto the stage. “Being in Les Mis is probably the coolest thing I’ve ever gotten the opportunity to do. The Playhouse is the largest producing theater in Iowa, and this is their most auditioned show to date. I’m really honored to be in it. The cast is basically Broadway quality talent, and it’s so cool to watch. We’ll be on billboards, news stations, in the paper and on the radio.

It’s like getting to have a little bit of Broadway fame right in Des Moines,” said Parisee.

•Spring Show. Forté shows off March 1, as they close their season. Don’t miss the last time to see this talented team of dancers as they dance to pom, kick and military, along with special performances with dads, solos and even a co-ed dance.

Sophomore Jessica Pottridge and senior Alexis Baker perform at a basketball game in preparation. “I’m looking forward to watching my clinic girls perform at spring show. They are so cute,” said Pottridge.

•Cabaret. March 8 features all of the choirs, from concert and select choir to show choir, including small groups of students collaborating for the show.

The audience can enjoy a pasta meal and delicious dessert as the view the production. Girls of AcaPella practice for both shows. “I’m super excited but nervous to get up in front of my peers.

I’m excited to see other peoples’ performances and to get to experience their talents,” said freshman Pearl Doty.

•Photo by Jim Palmer

• Boys’ Basketball 2nd round District Game.

On Feb. 27, cheer on the varsity boys basketball team as they start their journey to state.

Don’t forget to wear green and stand up with Pella pride. “I’m excited about our chances in the playoffs. I think our team is working really well together. I think our team has also accomplished a trust in the system,” said senior Bryce Bortscheller.