October Issue

October 26, 2010 | Volume 23, Issue 2 Districts Realigned, p. 5

Budget cuts revive ‘Dick’sfamiliar Chicks’: The last generation, p. 4 3 Marching Band tunes, p.

Curriculum caught in legal limbo College credit for fourth year language courses at stake

As a result of a new interpretation of an Iowa educational standard, students’ opportunity to receive college credit for their work in college-level classes may cease to exist.

The standard affecting foreign language curriculum here, is Iowa Chapter 12 General Education Standard 12.5(5). This standard states in section “H” that, “The foreign language program shall be a four-unit sequence of uninterrupted study in at least one language…”

Four years of two foreign languages, French and Spanish, is offered here. The fourth years are worth college credit.

The state will not acknowledge the fourth year as part of the four-unit sequence of uninterrupted study and will not de-

fine the offerings as complete because within a new interpretation of the standard, college credit courses are seen as an interruption to the four year sequence.

Graduate Aaron “The rule is solely based upon the number of course offerings the district must have in Smith enters the regard to foreign language,” said curriculum political sphere, director Lowell Ernst, “Only one language is pp. 6-7 required to offer four consecutive years, but as defined by the state, college credit courses do not count as one of the four consecutive years.

In order for a student to take a foreign language as a college credit course, five years would need to be offered. This would eliminate the chance for any current high school students to take a foreign language towards college credit and cause future seventh grade classes to make a large decision.”

During March, Ernst learned that the curriculum here was not in compliance with the standard’s requirements. This discovery was made while Ernst was shadowing a state site visit, a process where state officials assess all aspects of a school district to make sure schools are reaching and complying with Iowa educ a t i o n a l standards. The school being evaluated had a similar foreign language curriculum and was cited as out of compliance with the standard.

If a school is found to be out of compliance in any areas, plans must be made to correct the error before the next school year begins. If a school fails to change the error, state accreditation may be revoked, and the school would cease to exist.

This standard holds new importance in relation to foreign language curriculum “The law is out of touch with reality because [the students] have worked because the school will be undergoing a state site visit so hard to be able to succeed at a college credit level. Whenever people from this February.

DMACC come and look at my curriculum, it is actually harder than what Upon return, Ernst notified other administrators of the situation they would do at the college level.” and began work to decide what action •College Spanish teacher Gretchen Klein. would be taken to prepare for the upcom-

ing evaluation. After discussion, administrators felt that the new interpretation did not improve children’s educational opportunities compared to the current curriculum. If the school was to fully comply with the standard, college credit courses would no longer be available for students who begin foreign language courses in high school. This change would begin affecting students next year. The students currently taking college foreign language courses will receive the college credit offered by the course.

“We feel that this law takes a valuable opportunity away from our students. We also do not see it [the current course offerings] as taking away any opportunity from our current students. We do not disadvantage any students by what we are currently doing,” said Ernst.

In efforts to retain the current curriculum, Ernst and Superintendent Mark Wittmer have contacted numerous legislators. Senator Paul McKinley listened to their concerns and has begun work to draft new language of the standard.

“I am so impressed with the Pella education system, and if students work hard and [the school ] offers the kind of rigor where you have and you [students] are learning at aGaiser college •Photo

by Marielle level, you should be able to go to college and that should be treated like college level,” said McKinley. “We are trying to work legislatively that if you have that rigor, if you meet the requirements of a college level course then you should get college credit for that [during the fourth year]… The teacher is there. The teacher is paid for, so it is great for students to have that level of rigor. You should receive credit for that [college level work] as well,” he said.

The earliest the proposed legislature would be debated is January 2011. A bill would be drafted then be assigned to the education committee. Before reaching the House or Senate, the bill would need the endorsement of the Iowa State Education Association, Iowa School Board Association, School Administrators of Iowa and the Department of Education. If passed, the bill would continue on to the governor for signing. The earliest this piece of legislature would affect students is the beginning of the 2012 school year.

•Jessica Salpor (js.pelladium@gmail.com)

District hopes for reduced paper usage, lacks benchmarks Every tree is equivalent to 24 reams of paper, while a single ream includes about 500 individual sheets. With an average use of 4,232,846 sheets per year by the district, approximately 353 trees are sacrificed each year for hall posters, locker signs and rubrics. In a hope to not only cut down on paper and printing costs, but to also create a “greener” school environment, a 25% paper reduction has been implemented for the current school year. As the first two months have come and gone, the question still stands: is the district on track to meet its goal?

An idea first imagined by the administrative team, which includes the principals, curriculum director, board

secretary and superintendent, a 25% reduction of paper usage was just one of many possible cuts for the following year. Caught in a 10% across-the-board situation, the school board readily agreed to this alternative as a means to save money without cutting positions. As a result, the number of printers around the district decreased drastically, with those removed either being redistributed around the district or stored for later use, though none have been resold to bring in a profit. In the high school alone, the number of printers went from 31 to 15.

The middle school now only consists of three printers for all students and staff.

With such a large number of printers

being eliminated, it would be assumed that the district is dramatically decreasing its paper usage as well.

“I haven’t monitored our paper use this year. I think I may just check it now and then for curiosity, but the main purpose of this reduction was just to reinforce the teachers’ willingness to educate in other ways,” said Principal Eric Nelson.

Of the three principals interviewed in regards to the reduction of paper, not one has actually used the available technology to establish how much paper their school has been using so far this year. While their established goal will require the district to eliminate about 2000 reams of paper by the end of the

year, as of now, no particular person seems to be in charge of maintaining a constant collection of data over how much paper is used each week or if this amount is below or above average as compared to last year.

While Superintendent Mark Wittmer maintains that their goal is not adjustable, and that a monthly printout will be used eventually to determine individual monitoring, the time when all schools will be updated to this monitoring system has not been determined. Wittmer believes that achieving the 25% reduction will be undoubtedly doable, though no benchmarks have been set into place.

See: Paper, p. 2

Page Editor: Kelsey Van Tasell

October 26, 2010

PSEO directs students towards advanced learning capabilities College is either an exciting journey with new freedoms, or a foreboding nightmare of term papers looming over students.

Post-Secondary However, there is something that could make college a cinch.

Enrollment Option ...

PSEO are the only four letters If a course for college that high school students need credit is not available at to know. Through the Post Secondary Enrollment Act, the high school, it may students have the opportunity be taken at a local to achieve college credit if they college for college meet the requirements.

Students in grade nine credit. through 12 qualify for these classes by grade point.

Students intending to take a PSEO course must notify the •Graphic by Marielle Gaiser school district during the class scheduling process prior to each semester. Once the school district confirms they are eligible, to supplement my needs for the future,” the students are allowed to attend their said junior Shenstone Huang. classes. The classes can be taken online Typically PSEO courses are one course through the college that offers the course per semester. or it can be taken in a classroom at a local “Taking college classes in high school college. Though required core classes can help one see what they are up against can’t be replaced by PSEO courses. in the future, and help them adjust in an “This is a great way that students can appropriate manner. Every experience take college level courses without having broadens the mind. This one [Chinese] is to buy books or materials that they would no exception, ” said junior Chet Aldrich. need in college,” said Guidance Councelor Students currently taking these courses Teresa Thompson. aren’t the only ones that benefit by taking The benefits of these courses are credits these courses. Graduate Holli Renaud that go towards graduation requirements, feels the relief as she makes her way and earning college credit hours. Students through her freshman year in college. are free to reap the rewards once the “I’ve felt better prepared and had a course is successfully completed. Since better understanding of how to take notes, the high school pays the college, students and how to prepare for tests. Western don’t have to pay dime to participate in Civilization was a BIG help for those PSEO classes. two,” said Renaud.

Students would want to take these Students have been making the most courses because it gives them the of this opportunity in the past and the opportunity to pick from a variety of present. It is a highly advantageous courses not offered at the high school. program that can save students time and It’s also a way to prepare for the level money, and construct a strong base for of maturity, skill, and knowledge that their education in college. students will need in college. Many •Jillian Sagers students participate in these classes. (jillian.sagers@pella.k12.ia.us) “I thought it [Russian] was a cool course

Q & A with PSEO student Chet Aldrich Junior Chet Aldrich is currently enrolled in Chinese I at Central College.

Q:What is rewarding about this experience?

A: “It’s nice to get out of the high school and try something different. It’s more challenging for me.”

Q: What negatives are there by taking PSEO classes?

A: “It’s inconvenient to get out of classes early so I can make it to my PSEO class.”

•Junior Chet Aldrich

Q: Why did you take a language class in PSEO? A: “I wanted to take Chinese because I see myself going into business. You’ll never know when dealing with businesses what language skills will be useful.”

Briefly Speaking ...

SPLAT! Senior Sidney Pezley throws a pie in social studies teacher Jerod Garland’s face during her sociology class. Garland made a deal with his classes that if each student got over 80% Principal Eric Nelson would get a pie in the face, but if even one student got less, he would get a pie to the face. “This was a cool challenge. It was the first time I got to throw a pie in somebody’s face, and I thought that Mr. Garland was a good sport about everything,” said Pezley. •Photo by Alex De Jong

• Regional Special Olympics Bowling Competition in Des Moines was held Oct. 20. The team consisted of senior Allen Johnson, junior Jeconiah Vue, and freshmen Shane Rempe, Caleb Fynaardt, Tyler Hancock and Aaron Williams as the athletes. Senior Preston Dixon was the Peer Helper for this event.

• Sophomore Jacob Van Essen has been elected TSA president.

• Foods classes have developed a website for Pella Perks under the school website.

• Senior Sarah Masek is sewing the Pella Space Program parachute.

• Publications Adviser Ann Visser has been chosen to receive the Carl Towley Award from the Journalism Education Association.

•Freshmen and varsity volleyball teams became the 2010 conference champions. Varsity has also been undefeated in conference play for the past two seasons, breaking a record.

•Moxie, a women’s empowerment group sponsored by Pella Corp., held their first meeting Oct. 19. Moxie will be holding regular meetings for high school girls to teach them tools of selfconfidence.

•Whittney Reinier (wr.pelladium@gmail.com)

Paper (continued from page 1) “After talking with the administrative board last week, the monitoring process was welcomed with mixed reviews, but I think with the new copy system, people will be held more accountable. Just leaving the printing as it is now will not be nearly as effective in reaching our goal. In the end, I hope we are able to balance it all out and can mix figures to get where we want to be by the end of the year,” said Wittmer.

Even with the controversy surrounding the paper reduction, administrators maintain that the district is going to keep track of the paper usage.

“By reducing paper we are not only helping the district financially, but I think it provides a better, greener standard for our students to show them that we care about what happens outside school walls. I think we will meet our goal by the end of the year, and in doing so, get students more aware to the needs of the environment,” said middle school principal Matt Patton.

•Megan Card(mcpelladium@gmail.com)

Page Editor: Maddy Scholten

October 26, 2010

Retirement brings final generation of Dick’s Chicks

Friday night lights aren’t just home to football games.

They also host the marching band, and within the band, the color guard. For generations the color guard has been a model of consistency, building a tradition of success and creativity.

Dick Redman, the director of bands and head of the color guard, has been with the band for 33 years and is retiring at the end of the school year. With his expertise and sense of humor, Redman has made color guard an activity of enjoyment and learning for the young women involved throughout the years.

“Mr. Redman has softened over the years, but he is still someone that I wish my grandchildren would have been able to have as a teacher and mentor. Not just for the experience, but for the values he gave to everyone,” said 1988 graduate Dana Brown-Warrick.

Though styles and techniques have evolved throughout the years, the impact the color guard has had on the quality of the performances has always been exceptional. People know the Pella band for their sound, but they also know them for the outstanding sights provided by the color guard. It’s been a perfect match for 33 years, thanks to Redman’s dedicated, visionary guidance.

“He [Redman] is the type of teacher that is unforgettable not only for his immaculate design and technique on the marching band field and his amazing teaching tactics, but for his personality,” said 2007 graduate Alie Muller.

“Color guard changes with the activity. When we started we used a seven-foot pole, then five-foot, now we’re using a six-foot pole. In the beginning, there was very little dance work; now we have a lot of dance. I don’t choreograph it anymore, but I used to,” said Redman.

It hasn’t all been about the performance on the field. Redman has also left a significant impression on the hundreds of students who have been involved in the program over the years.

“Marching band was one of the best experiences of my life and of my high school years. The discipline I learned

and the fun we had was what drove me to make sure my children had music in their lives,” said Brown-Warrick.

“D.R. is almost like a big brother who is fun to joke around with. We have a lot of fun, but he’s not afraid to set us straight when need be,” said senior Tricia Wisniewski.

“In color guard we have a lot of inside jokes. Last year, we camped out on D.R.’s front yard without him knowing. He was definitely surprised to learn we were out there, but it was funny,” said senior Jordan Bossard.

While some might consider working with 30 teenage girls to be a challenge, Redman embraces it, and finds joy from the everyday experiences.

“The thing I’ll miss the most is the girls. Their personalities and attitudes make it fun. I’ve been fortunate to have great young ladies. They are very dedicated and work hard, and they also have a lot of interest in what they’re doing,” said Redman.

Many of the girls have mutual feelings for Redman.

The many memories made together are irreplaceable.

“D.R. and I have always had a special relationship. He always expected cookies from me. Starting back in middle school I tried “sucking up” to him by making a cookie cake saying “Number 1 Band Director” so I could make flags for Tulip Time. After that, it just became normal for me to bring a dozen chocolate chip cookies for him, which he kept in his top file cabinet drawer,” said 2008 graduate Kara Van Tasell.

After all this time, it comes down to a few final performances. Years of hard work and sweat will fade and transition to retirement. Redman, who has given 33 years to the program, will leave a lasting legacy. Color guard will continue, but Dick’s Chicks will cease to exist.

“I hope for the color guard to continue performing at a high level. I want them to continue to be successful, and also to have a good time and have fun,” said Redman.

•Maddy Scholten (maddys.pelladium@gmail.com

•Photo by Jacob Martin

TRADITION. Director of Bands Dick Redman poses with Dana BrownWarrick (1988) and her two daughters, Deanna Kephart (2009) and Asheley Kephart (2007), former color guard girls. •Photo submitted

POSE. All smiles, junior Jen Jansen performs in “Malguena.” •Photo by Jacob Martin.

SILLY. Band Director Dick Redman and Kara Van Tasell (2008) enjoy their cookie tradition. •Photo submitted

“Wizard” features large cast, techno tricks With just nine days and counting until their first per-

formace, the 94 cast members of the Wizard of Oz are still preparing. With practices beginning in September, members have been working nearly nonstop to ready themselves for the Nov. 4, 5 and 6 showings.

A large cast list meant a high demand for cast members. Director Michelle Chaplin opened it up to the high school student body and those younger. Auditions took place the first few days of school.

“I wanted to offer this opportunity to children and high school, but I gave all the main parts to the high school students. They are all doing a great job working together,” said Chaplin.

Much of what is featured in the play remains the same as it was in the book and movie. A few items have been added to make it more amusing. The crows and trees aid in this. They bring singing into the mix, as does the Ozian Chorus, Munchkins and Poppies. Two choruses are included, one for the older members and one for the children. The pit orchestra will provide much of the rhythm.

PRACTICE. Freshman Tristan Miedema recites lines with senior Jake Anderson. •Photo by Mitch Shepperd

The harp and bassoon are two of the more unique instruments that will be played.

The set is also very unique. Cast members and volun-

teers worked for many hours painting and constructing to perfect it.

“I think the set is unique because it’s a very large and colorful set. The show takes place in many different settings so it was a lot of work, but it’s so fun and colorful,” said sophomore Sarah Davis.

Technological use has been boosted in order to bring a more realistic picture to the stage. A “green screen,” run by senior Eric Moore, will be used during many portions of the program. Also known as chroma-keying, green screens are commonly used in movie productions today. They work by making colors transparent so that the screen may be changed to fit different settings.

“Basically, Mrs. Chaplin wants parts of the play videotaped to show different backgrounds. For example, Kelly [Anderson], the good witch, is in a field with poppies behind her, and it turns into a snow storm. She [Chaplin] saw it done before and thought it would make the play more unique, ” Moore said.

•Haley Sytsma (hs.pelladium@gmail.com)

Page Editor: Jocelyn Van Dyke

October 26, 2010

Ferguson joins Army, balances school, activities

NEW DRIVER. “[I would race] in a heartbeat! But my dad would probably never let me do it,” said senior Kelsey VerMeer, pictured with her dad Tony and his company’s 410 sprint car. To see more photos and to read Shaun Sokol’s compete story about Kelsey and her dad, visit pelladium.com.

She’s in the Army now. Senior Sarah “I’m really proud of myself and Ferguson has added an extra activity not everyone else in it. But I will be a lot more as common for a high school student - supportive and proud of myself when I serving in the military. graduate basic and AIT. The PT tests will “Managing everything I do takes a lot of be really hard, and so will the physical effort and puts quite a bit of stress on me, and mental part of basic and AIT,” said but I just deal with it and move forward Ferguson. and make the best of all my opportunities Along with being in the Army, Ferguson because life isn’t ever going to be easy,” is involved in marching band and has a said Ferguson. job. Her Army duties can also cause some Ferguson said the Army had the benefits overlap between high school activities, and the kind of things that fit better into such as prom, which is a weekend of basic her life plan. She decided to join in high training. school partially to get a year of it out of “[Balancing] hasn’t been a huge problem the way and partially to get to know the yet, but I do have drill on prom weekend, people in my so I’m not sure unit before she what’s going on went to basic. with that. It’s not A that hard; you just recruiter can have to be smart Managing everything I do occasionally with what you do in takes a lot of effort, but I make be seen in the your down time,” school cafeteria said Ferguson. the best of all my opportunities. giving out

Aside from •senior Sarah Ferguson information the overlaps, about joining Ferguson does not the Army, regret her decision along with the to enter the Army benefits. during high school.

“It wasn’t

“I think one particular [being in the Army person [who is] an amazing recruited opportunity and me]. I had definitely one of been talking the best decisions I to the Army have ever made to representatives do with my life. I since freshman encourage anyone year, but who has any interest •Photo submitted •Photo by Marielle Gaiser never wanted in it to either talk to to join until I talked to them at Tulip me or any of the recruiters who come to Time. It helped somewhat to get the the school. You definitely won’t regret it basic information [from the Army in the end,” said Ferguson. representative at the school] out there to Being in the Army during high school me and to set up more than one meeting,” also offers many benefits for people said Ferguson. down the road to find a career path or to The Ferguson family has had a long advance quickly within the Army. military tradition. Her father Greg was “[I plan] to go active and be an officer in the Air Force and is a Vietnam veteran; and hopefully go on a deployment tour. her grandfather was in the Navy and a [The Army] helps pay for college and veteran of World War II. get cheaper insurance, make friends and Ferguson began training for the Army in have a better chance of getting a civilian July of 2010. job. [I plan on staying involved] most “We get there early in the morning and likely 20 years so I can retire with it,” said take classes all day and, occasionally on Ferguson. drill weekend, we take a PT test, and we An important part of joining the Army do the same thing again on Sunday. [My is having support of the decision through favorite part of the Army is] the people both one’s family and friends.

I have met through going to drill and “[My parents] are surprisingly really getting to go out with them the Saturday supportive, even though my mom was night of drill weekend,” said Ferguson. a little hesitant at first, and doesn’t want Ferguson is a part of the reserves as to lose her ‘little girl’ since I’m an only an Internment Resettlement Specialist child. All of my friends are extremely ... prison guard. She drives herself to supportive and encouraging through all Ames monthly for drill, where she of this,” said Ferguson. works out and is taught basic skills. Next “I thought it would be a really great summer, Ferguson will train in Advanced experience for me to make me a stronger Individual Training (AIT), and from there person. Also, [it gives] something back to report to fall training in Fort Leonard my country that has given me so many Wood, Mo. opportunities and rights. Just go for it.

“After college, I plan on going active There are quite a few girls in the military, duty and being an officer,” said Ferguson. and you can make a lot of friends this way, Army test requirements include passing and even get more respect from people,” the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude said Ferguson.

Battery (ASVAB) and the physical tests.

•Taylor Rennich (tr.pelladium@gmail.com)

Boat’s Home Furnishings 620 Franklin St. Pella, IA 50219 628-2040 Brom Auto Service & Sales Inc. 819 Broadway St. Pella, IA 50219 628-1700 Community 1st Credit Union 500 Main St. Pella, IA 50219 628-2022

De Jong Door Service 1307 Columbus St. Pella, IA 50219 628-8736 Digital Solutions Inc. 809 West 8th St. Pella, IA 50219 628-0088 Fareway Stores Inc. 2010 Washington St. Pella, IA 50219 628-9995

Page Editor: Tiffany Carter

Listen. “I Am Not a Human Being” Lil’ Wayne has been in and out of prison standard for Lil’ Wayne. His use of explicit multiple times, but he still continues to language may not be for everyone, but if create spectacular music. The album “I Am you don’t mind it, it’ll be easy to enjoy the Not a Human Being” was recorded before other lyrics. As with the beats, each song his prison term for criminal possession of presents lyrics different from one another. a firearm, and production Drake, Jay Sean and a was continued by a variety of other artists number of individuals, also make their way on including Birdman and DJ to the album, adding Infamous. The album was immensely to the variety released electronically of music presented.

What?

Sept. 27 and met stunning Overall, the album isn’t A recently released success, probably due to the greatest of the year, Lil’ Wayne’s popularity, but it’s still satisfying. It’s hip hop/rap album his widely known jail definitely a must-buy for time and the slick beats Lil Wayne fans. If you’re the album contains. not too into his style, I’d Who? The songs on the album consider at least listening are varied. Each has its Released by platinum to the songs on Youtube own unique sound, and to experience them, and artist Lil’ Wayne they all remain fairly perhaps buying one catchy. I’m not a huge Lil’ or two off iTunes. Lil’ Wayne fan, but I found my head bobbing Wayne may be serving jail time, but he to the beat of almost every song. It’s safe still manages to serve up some enjoyable to say if you’re big on beats, whether it be beats. in the car or at home, definitely pick up “I •Adam Gromotka Am Not a Human Being.” (apg.pelladium@gmail.com) The vocals on the album are the

At a glance...

Watch. The Social Network As a character says towards the end moments awkward, and we never forget of the film, “Every creation myth has its that Zuckerberg is the smartest person in devil,” and the creation of Facebook is the room. It is never made clear if he is a no exception. The Social Network depicts good guy or bad guy, which is interesting. the not-so-glamorous beginning of the Cofounder Eduardo Saverin, played by second largest internet giant, and it does Andrew Garcia (soon-to-be the next Peter so wonderfully.

Parker in the revamp of Spiderman) is the The film is almost 100% dialogue, and most likable character. Saverin tries really with a writer like Aaron Sorkin (creator of hard not to give up on Zuckerberg, even “The West Wing”), that is a good thing. The after he falls to the clutches of Napster language is simply beautiful. From fights creator and crack addict Sean Parker between the main characters to small talk, (Justin Timberlake). Saverin is an oldSorkin’s words immerse the viewer in a fashioned business man, which creates story ultimately about a a rift between him and fight between two geeks the new age Zuckerberg, over 25 billion dollars.

Garfield does a great job While the language is of selling the stepped-on beautiful, it could easily best friend. alienate average movieArmie Hammer plays What? goers. The viewer will two characters, Cameron A film based on the need to bring their full and Tyler Winklevoss. creation of Facebook attention to this movie to The “Winklevi” as appreciate its dialogue.

Zuckerberg says in The film features no the film, are suing good roles for women, Zuckerberg for stealing Why? but the male roles are the idea of Facebook Watch the effects of great. from them. Hammer greed and power on Cofounder and CEO does well, but it is more of Facebook Mark impressive that he plays a friendship Zuckerberg, played two characters well. by Jesse Eisenberg The Social Network is (Zombieland), is depicted as cold, geeky less about the founding of Facebook and and surprisingly anti-social. This is a more about the tale of friends torn apart fictionalized account of the events, but by greed and power. Its traits seem almost the real Zuckerberg doesn’t seem to be Shakespearean. The movie raises the half as cold or anti-social as he is depicted. question; How much are friends worth?

However, none of this matters, because The answer is never revealed, leaving the Eisenberg is outstanding. He makes a decision up to the viewer. scene of angry computer hacking seem awesome. He excels at making the right •Evan Jones(ej.pelladium@gmail.com)

At a glance...

Vander Ploeg Bakery 711 Franklin St. Pella, IA 50219 628-2293 Dr. Gregory Vannucci, D.D.S, P.C. 2601 Washington St. Pella, IA 50219 628-2011 Work Systems Rehab & Fitness 308 SE 9th St. Pella, IA 50219 621-0230

Kathy Kooyman, Realtor, Home Realty 641-416-0182 Pella Orthodontics, Dr. Kim Wass 715 Main St. Pella, IA 50219 628-9195

Support Pelladium Sponsors!

Visit. The Dog House When I first heard that I was assigned more are used to create dogs for everyone to review a hot dog joint, I have to admit to enjoy.

I was somewhat skeptical. I have never I decided to take a personal risk and been a huge hot dog fan, and even when order a gourmet dog. A Gourmet dogs I did eat one, I usually preferred my dog are covered in onions, peppers and with just ketchup. After making my trip to mushrooms and for the price of just $2.79, “The Dog House,” one hot dog completely which seemed like quite a steal. After a changed my mind. polite chat with the chef, we were served The restaurant, located at Dutch Oven pretty quickly. They prepare the hot dogs Pizza’s former location, is very easy to by slicing them down the center and find. My fellow Pelladium grilling the two parts member Eric Moore and I separately. All of this is were instantly attended done right in front of to as we walked in the you to maximize taste by door. We glanced at the getting the food out to the wide range of items customers quickly. After What? located on “The Dog Eric received his Jalapeño Pella’s newest hot House’s” menu. More dog, the two of us sat dog hot-spot than just hot dogs graced down to eat. the white piece of paper.

We were both amazed In fact, hamburgers, by the amount of toppings hot sandwiches and they loaded onto each.

Where? deli products were also “The Dog House” really 830 Washington St. available. So, hot dog wants to make sure you haters have nothing to get your money’s worth. worry about as there is Eric and I both scarfed something for everyone. down our meals quickly. The hot dog’s The hot dog lovers out there will be were cooked perfectly and the ingredients delighted by the extensive and original hot all meshed well together. dog choices that “The Dog House” sells. If you’re driving past 830 Washington The menu offers 15 separate hot dogs, eight Street between 10:30 am. and 8 p.m. don’t of which derived from the chef’s friends, be afraid to stop and grab a hot dog. If you family members and the chef herself want good food for a great price, “The coming up with new toppings to put on Dog House” is definitely the place to eat. the hot dogs. Different combinations of •Nick Dorman(nd.pelladium@gmail.com) peppers, chili, mushrooms, relishes and

Green Supporters...

Bos Landen Golf Club, 2411 Bos Landen Drive, 628-4625 Braafhart’s BP Amoco, 834 Washington Street, 628-2474 Central Cellular, 1530 Washington Street, 6289520 Comfort Inn & Suites, 910 West 16th Street, 621-1421 Dutch Meadows Landscaping, 100 1/2 Vermeer Road, 628-4450 Eyecare Partners, 823 Franklin Street, 628-9225 Jansen’s Decorating & Kitchens, 614 Franklin Street, 628-4247

At a glance...

Leighton Processed Meats, 227 Otley Street, Leighton, IA, 626-3211 Oriental Express, 706 Main Street, 620-1199 Prudential First of Pella Realty, 601 Franklin Street, 628-9840 Sadler Sign & Design, 203 SE 16th Street, 628-9889 Van Maanen, Sietstra and Meyer, P.C., 705 Main Street, 628-3737 Van Maanen Seed & Chemical, 2073 Eaton Ave., Leighton, IA, 626-3471 Windmill Cafe, 709 Franklin Street,621-1800 Windmill Mall Antiques & Collectibles, 637 Fanklin Street, 628-1095 Pella Printing Co.,Inc., 1190 West 16th St.,628-4941

Page Editor: Michael Ge

October 26, 2010

High School Hazard • Jillian Sagers

(bmc.pelladium@gmail.com)

Don’t add extra days The other day I was lazily sitting in class.

It was one of those days where the teacher clearly would rather surf the web than teach, and thus you’re left with 40 minutes to finish a five-minute assignment. I don’t mean to toot my own horn, but I finished in under four minutes. Anyway, the girl next to me finishes a second later and decides to take to texting. No big deal, right? Wrong.

She immediately starts jamming away at her keys. Not just casually pressing the buttons, she’s absolutely wrecking her phone with her jacked thumbs. This is button mashing in the most literal sense.

I’m left with an unbearable 35 minutes to hear button abuse in the first degree. So, really, why bother being at school?

time. It only took 28 days for zombies to completely take over the earth. What if 20 of those 28 days you had to spend in school, instead of putting your hours spent to use playing “Dead Rising?” It only took me six days to finish the movie “Secretariat” and being subjected to that is better than 20 bonus school days. I don’t mean to beat a dead horse (pun!), but that movie was atrocious. If you want to watch animal abuse for seven hours, you can either opt for “Secretariat” or “Doctor Dolittle.” It’s really pick your poison at that point, and yes, the animals being subjected to Eddie Murphy’s acting is abuse.

Extending School’s Not Cool ...

By extending the school year, they wouldn’t just be killing 28,800 minutes of fun in the sun. They’d be reaching into our pockets and mugging us like the proverbial, well, mugger. Imagine if those 20 days spent dripping in sweat during school were spent getting your work on?

You might still be dripping in sweat depending on where you work - but you’d be dripping in sweat and making bank.

Figure if we had seven hours of school per day for 20 days that would come out to be about 140 hours. Now, if you’re making seven dollars and change per hour at your place of employment, then those 140 hours have a dollar amount on them ... $980 and change to be somewhat exact.

Not only are they taking away a potential $980 from work, but they’re taking away your parents’ money in the form of higher taxes. After all, it costs money to keep every school up and running for an extra 20 days every year. So, when you ask your mom for some new Jordans for next school year, don’t expect to have your wish granted because those extra 20 days cost her a pretty penny.

Recently, President Obama had the bright idea to reiterate his love affair with extending the school year. Bush had the wise idea of prematurely declaring “Mission Accomplished,” but Obama may have topped him with this one.

It’s almost unbelievable that someone had the audacity to suggest extending the school year. Does our Commanderin-Chief really want to subject me to countless days of cringing at Betty Button Beater’s barbaric texting technique? It’s hard to blame the teachers for wanting to surf the interweb every once in awhile.

(Random tidbit: what’s more enjoyable than watching a teacher Google stuff?

Google’s autofill let’s you see their previous searches, and man, why did she Google “What do people taste like?” so many times?) I mean, if I had an eBay item ending soon, I’d hand out a second grade level assignment so I could partake in an intense bidding session. That Calvin Klein shirt and pants combo was a darn good deal!

Eddie Murphy or Education?

Our dear leader is proposing tacking on a month or so to every school year.

That’s one less month of glorious summer and one more month of curriculum to memorize for semester tests. Let’s assume he means adding one calendar month, bringing the total number of added school days to about 20. Twenty days is a long

Robbing the Time Bank ...

180 Days is Enough!

It’s ridiculous anyone would suggest adding 20 days. If 179 or 180 days don’t break the camel’s back, then surely day 200 will. Those extra 20 days of dealing with Betty Button Beater, in addition to the thought that you could be out making nearly a thousand bucks, is sickening.

Wait! There’s even more!

Ecol R Videos Photos oge eviews Blogs Polls rts Life Spo News

www.pelladium.com Always a new issue New design coming soon...

Fish & Sheps • Mitch Shepperd

On the Wrong Side of the Tracks This month’s situation really gives us a heart attack. While scurrying through the hall, you’re stopped by the blood clot called hallway traffic. It often stems from one locker, and can be as many as eight people thick. Traffic slows to a trickle, making you late to Spanish.

JA: I really hate how it’s nearly impossible to get from one class to another without getting slowed down by annoying traffic jams. There has to be a better way.

AG: And there is! If we make breaks between classes shorter, say around 30 seconds, everyone would have no choice but to get to class.

JA: I don’t think that’s a feasible break period.

AG: Sprinting from the art hallway to the Spanish rooms is more than doable!

JA: How about we just draw lines to keep the annoying underclassmen next to their lockers and out of the middle of the halls?

AG: What about in front of classrooms? There are so many freshmen in front of the study hall room. In fact there are so many that they spill over and block the stairwell vital to floor connection.

JA: I think in the end it all relies on cooperation between students. If we work to keep to the right and not stand in the middle of hallways, we can avoid ridiculous tardies and awkward collisions.

•Adam Gromotka (apg.pelladium@gmail.com) •Jake Anderson (ja.pelladium@gmail.com)

Page Editor: Madeline Meyer

October 26, 2010

Student-athletes cope with injury

SCORE! Senior Quarterback Teag Klyn rushes into the end zone, with teammate Jake Wassenaar close behind at the Fairfield home game Oct. 15, which the Dutch won 20-0. “The Fairfield game really reflected our season because it was a ahard fought win and we shut out a very good team. The best part of football is the team unity, and how much fun we have, and winning; that’s fun, too,” said Klyn. At the Oct. 20 printing deadline, the team was undefeated at 8-0. •Photo by Marielle Gaiser

BACK

in the

GAME

Intramural funding reinstated

Fierce competition, friendly trash talk, sweat and teardrops falling everywhere; intramural sports is a school tradition taken seriously by all participants. The announcement of intramural sports being cut was a disappointing result of budget cuts.

However, recent funding grants have been issued to intramural athletics. With new emphasis on physical education programs such as PE4Life, intramural sports are a necessary step in getting students to participate in physical activities outside of their physical education classes.

The retirement of former physical education teacher Margene Van Horn, has left the intramural program without administrators. Teachers Doug Cutler and Bryant Hancock were hired to continue the program despite former budget cuts.

“I have never done anything like this before, but if you know me, I like to have fun. I hope these competitions will be competitive, but still enjoyable at the same time. It’s a great way for kids to stay out of trouble and gives students something to do. I hope they try to do something new this year, some sport we have never done before,” said Hancock.

Intramural sports are intended to be a competitive way to play sports with

other students. Many students who are out of season or not on any sports team can participate in activities such as: archery, basketball, bowling, dodgeball, volleyball, soccer, tennis and table tennis.

“I think intramural sports are extremely valuable. It’s something not just for interscholastic athletes, but it offers an alternative to athletes not in any sports.

It’s not always easy to get a group of guys to play an organized sport without joining a team,” said Athletic Director Bill Van Horn.

Specific dates for the intramurals have not yet been decided. Expect to see sign up sheets on the gym door during the start of the winter sports seasons.

Students are looking forward to participating in intramurals. There is even an ongoing joke about winning the championsip intramural t-shirt. Senior Ryan Lanke is planning on playing intramural basketball.

“Being able to compete and work as a team without dealing with commitments and after school practices is a major benefit of intramurals. It is fun because everyone is friends, it takes out the stresses of the day, and there are no consequences of losing,” said Lanke.

•Michael Ge (mg.pelladium@gmail.com)

Jock Talk• Jock Talk Volleyball. Senior Alexa Azinger Q: Why do you participate in volleyball? Is there a specific reason you put so much time and effort into volleyball?

A: “I love to compete, and I have to work together as a team for something. You’re being active, but making new friends, having fun and winning. You go through awesome wins or hard losses together,and come out with lifelong friends.”

Cross Country. Junior Alex Ropes Q: Who is the person that has influenced you the most in your athletic career?

A: “... my cousin, because my long term high school goal is to beat him in a race. It has proven to be a good motivator so far.”

The immediate aftermath of a hard hit to the head may consist of a coach showing an injured player a random amount of fingers. If the player can tell how many fingers are being held up, they are instantly thrust back into the action.

Recent medical research is changing the nonchalant reactions to such a serious injury.

The primary reason why physicians are worried are because of the long lasting effects concussions can have on the brain.

Concussions are widely believed to be caused by the head hitting hard surfaces, and the brain becoming bruised by the impact. In actuality, it is not the impact that causes the concussion, it is the violent shaking after the impact that can lead to memory loss and increase risk of dementia.

A July 27 New York Times article stated how the National Football League is taking a much stronger stance on concussions, including a poster plastered in every locker team locker room outlining the risks involved.

“Concussions and conditions resulting from repeated brain injury can change your life and your family’s life forever,”states the NFL poster.

Athletic coaches and trainers are taking note of the medical findings and taking a much different route with the treatment of a concussion. A strong collision in a football game that would have sidelined the player for three to four days is now keeping a player out for two or more weeks.

The effects are also taking place in cross country. Junior Tiffany Carter has been held out of practices and meets after experiencing two concussions in as

many weeks in September. She is one of many cross country runners who has been bothered by injury this year.

“I had to end up missing the majority of the season, which was really disappointing. The concussions have affected me a lot in school, and every day activities have become difficult due to memory loss. The aftermath of the headaches and going to many loud events that I used to enjoy have become less enjoyable,” said Carter.

Of the record 92 athletes who went out for the sport, 20 have missed extended time with injury. Seven athletes, including Carter, are no longer allowed to practice until healthy.

“We had to tell a few kids not to practice for awhile. We’ve never had to do that before, but if any of the kids show that they will be able to run at some point in the season, we’ll let them back on,” said cross country coach Doug Cutler.

Cutler describes the amount of injuries this season as “pretty normal” for the average cross country season.

The football injury numbers are not nearly as extensive. Only four players have missed a game because of injury, and only one, Sophomore Houston Naaktgeboren, was sidelined for the entire season.

“It wasn’t so much painful as it was disappointing to hear that I was going to miss the entire football season again,” said Naaktgeboren.

Strength coach Zack Fears has been helping football players stay healthy.

“We urge all of our athletes to stretch, eat healthy and lift to stay in shape and prevent injury.” said Fears •Nick Dorman (nd.pelladium@gmail.com)

Fears’ Top 5 Ways to Avoid Injury 1. Warm-up.

Stretch, jog, do anything to prevent the muscles from tightening up.

2. Eat healthy.

Do not ingest too many trans-fats, and be sure to get adequate amount of carbohydrates and proteins before an athletic competition.

3.

Add weightlifting and cross-training activities to your workout.

Doing this can help keep muscles strong and cross-training can help other muscles take some of the stress away from the more heavier used ones. This can lower the risk of stress fractures.

4. Don’t go your max amount every time.

Never go six weeks straight working out at the highest intensity.

Always include an “unload” week in there somewhere.

5. Refuel and stretch after work-out.

Stretching after workouts is more important than stretching before.

Make sure to drink plenty of liquids after a work out to replenish energy.

Leighton State Bank 900 Washington St. PO Box 6 Pella, IA 50219 628-1566

Pella Nail Salon 604 Liberty St. Suite 129 Pella, IA 50219 628-1104

Recker Dental Care 2114 Washington St. Pella, IA 50219 628-1604

Silver Lining 733 Franklin St. Pella, IA 50219 628-3650

Midtown Tire Company 109 E. Oskaloosa St. Pella, IA 50219 641-628-1072

Pella Pets Veterinary Clinic 411 Oskaloosa St. Pella, IA 50219 620-8880

Red Rock Chiropractic Center, P.C. 1400 Fifield Rd. Pella, IA 50219 628-9991

Sports Page Grill 1111 W. 16th St. Pella, IA 50219 620-1149

MidWestOne Bank 700 Main St. Suite 100 Pella, IA 50219 628-4356

Precision Pulley, Inc. 300 S.E. 14th St. Pella, IA 50219 628-3115

Royal Amsterdam Hotel 705 East First St. Pella, IA 50219 620-8400

Sports Page Sporting Goods 1562 Washington St. Pella, IA 50219 628-4999

Stravers True Value/ Radio Shack/ U.S. Cellular 818 Main St. Pella, IA 50219 628-3330 TD&T Financial Group, P.C., CPA’s 606 Franklin St. Pella, IA 50219 628-9411 TK Concrete 1608 Fifield Rd. Pella, IA 50219 628-4590

Tri-County Vet 650 Hwy T-14 Pella, IA 50219 628-4040 TRIUMPH Martial Arts 308 S.E. 97th St. Pella, IA 50219 (866) 648-8480 Van Dyk-Duven Funeral Home 615 West First St. Pella, IA 50219 628-2540

October 26, 2010

Page Editors: Megan Card, Jessica Salpor

Two Cities; Two Parties

Elections bring division between Knoxville, Pella With the November elections fast approaching, the notorious political campaign signs have once again made their big debut. Attempting to persuade voters, they can be seen clustered on front yards in groups of twos or threes, or even more, making indicative little lawn ornaments.

Located within only 15 miles of one another, Pella and Knoxville are two towns that showcase vastly different political campaign signs. Both are located in Marion County, these towns hold contrasting beliefs that aid in the formation of their distinct political views.

“Marion County is conservative, but I think Knoxville is a little more liberal. Knoxville doesn’t have a common thread,” said Brad Crossett, father of Knoxville senior Allison Crossett.

When comparing political statistics, an average of Knoxville’s townships shows that in the 2008 general elections, 56.91% of voters cast their ballot for Barack Obama and Joe Biden while 40.74% sought to elect John McCain and Sarah Palin. Conversely, 33.22% of Pella voters wanted to elect Obama and Biden, whereas 65.17% favored McCain and Palin.

Taking an analytical look at these statistics, the factors that may make a city liberal or conservative stem from a variety of sources.

“Education, church affiliation, influence in Pella of Central College, more wealth, and a white collar working force in Pella vs. blue collar in Knoxville [are all contributing factors],” said Patrice Langenfeld, mother of Pella sophomore Daniel Langenfeld.

Central College Political Science professor, Keith Yanner, agrees.

“If you look at incomes, people in Pella tend to be more affluent than people in Knoxville on per-capita basis. In fact, the last time I checked per-capita incomes in Pella

At the heart of America’s representative democracy exists a very peculiar, potent authority: the voice of the common man. Regardless of the amount of political cunning the system is prone to, every American citizen retains his right to vote, to shape his own government. However ideal, this is not quite the case; psychological factors much more elaborate than mere personal opinion drive the choices of voters. It is important for adolescents to recognize the swaying factors that will influence their political views as they come of voting age, especially seniors, who may already be old enough to participate in the Nov. 2 state elections.

were about $10,000 higher than in Knoxville. Another factor that probably plays out in voting is religion. I would assume there are considerably more conservative evangelical Christians in Pella than in Knoxville...If that is true, then people in Pella would tend to vote more Republican than Democrat because of their social conservative commitments. All things equal, people who are less affluent and less intensely religious are more likely to vote Democratthat would be Knoxville,” said Yanner.

Education is yet another factor that can influence the way people vote.

“Based upon 2000 Census data, while 83% of Knoxville residents fit into the category of high school graduate or higher, only 12.7% fit into the category of bachelor’s degree or higher. For Pella residents, 81.6% fit into the category of high school graduate or higher, but 31.4% fit into the category of bachelor’s degree or higher. The bottom line is that Pella residents report higher levels of education than Knoxville residents, which could lead Pella residents to be more likely to register as Republicans and thus vote Republican in elections,” said Dr. Andrew Green, Assistant Professor and Chair of Political Science at Central College.

There is glitch here, however.

“Even though Pella residents report a greater number of advanced and professional degrees, a sizable number of those residents are professors at Central and are quite liberal politically, which would be counter to the norm,” said Green.

•Jocelyn Van Dyke (jvd.pelladium@gmail.com)

Religious Influence By standardizing values amongst their followers, religious groups have been shown to provide great influence in voting trends, especially when candidates’ take positions in controversial issues. In a study conducted at Mckendree University, voting statistics from the 2000 and 2004 presidential elections were analyzed, taking into consideration the religious preference of voters and the platform of the candidate they voted for.

Parental Influence According to studies done by John Gross, the political values of parents seem to rub off on future voters. The National Civic and Political Engagement of Young People Survey conducted in 2006 showed that if a young adult has a primary parent or guardian that responded as being ‘very interested’ in politics and public affairs, then they have just under an 84% chance of ‘definitely voting’ in an upcoming election.

Media Influence

Governor Governor Chet Culver (running mate) Patty Judge: •About: Current governor of Iowa, 19% behind Branstad in polls as of 9/22 •Party: Democrat •Primary Goal: Increase alternative energy production in Iowa •During term: raised minimum wage and teacher pay during his term as governor, as well as created thousands of jobs with I-JOBS program

Former Governor Terry Branstad (running mate) Kim Reynolds:

Vs.

Senate

Congressman Leonard Boswell •About: has been a member of the House of Representatives since 1996 •Party: Democrat •Supported: recovery legislation that put Iowans back to work, invests in Iowa’s industries and infrastructure and provides assistance to out-ofwork Iowans.

State Senator Brad Zaun

vs.

•About: went from mayor of Urbandale to State Senator •Party: Republican •Supports: streamlined government and fiscal responsibility and reduce bureaucracy

Attorney Roxanne Conlin

Senator Charles Grassley •About: has been a United States senator since 1981 •Party: Republican •Supported: funding border control, the Violence Against Women Act, affordable higher education

•About: Governor of Iowa from 1983 to 1999, was governor of Iowa longer than any other governor •Party: Republican •Primary Goal: increase exports from Iowa to other countries •During term: raised incomes and lowered the unemployment rate during his term as governor •Opposes: abortion and stem cell research and same-sex marriage

vs.

•About: was the United States attorney in Iowa, has owned and managed her own law practice for 25 years •Party: Democrat •Supported: “Made in America” items, a decreased dependency on foreign oil

• Graphic by Micah Zeimetz (mz.pelladium@gmail.com)

Campaign Strategies

•Mitch Shepperd (ms.pelladium@gmail.com)

During campaign season, wholly truthful and impartial sources of information on a candidate are great rarities. Campaign advertisements, websites and even media outlets are often subtly laced with details aimed at the promotion or demotion of a party. In a study conducted at Ohio State University, the University of California, Texas Tech and Indiana University, political science professors determined that though interpersonal discussion influences voting behavior most, the clandestine bias of media still provides a recognizable pressure, especially on “less interested voters.”

Smith steps into political arena as a Grassley intern

Aaron Smith, a 2008 Pella High graduate and current Luther College student, received two internships with Senator Charles Grassley in Washington D.C. One was a six week program completed during the summer and he is now interning for his fall semester which goes from September through mid December.

Smith acknowledged how lucky he is to receive such an amazing opportunity.

“I knew that I wanted to intern in Washington, D.C., and applied through the online form on Grassley’s website. The intern coordinator for Grassley, Josie Rundlett, selects candidates from those applications and then does phone interviews with a final round of candidates. I was fortunate enough to pass the phone interview process and receive the internship in D.C.,” said Smith.

Smith is looking to gain a lot from this internship experience.

“I am doing the internship because I wanted to get a better idea of what I wanted to do career-wise after college. I knew I wanted to go to law school, but I also knew that I didn’t want to do much with the courtroom-type. I’m also doing the internship in D.C. because this is the only place where these policies are made; there are some state-level issues, but we deal with the overarching federal policies. If I had an internship with a corporation, which I’m looking for next summer, I would get to see the other side of the equation, where they are either reacting to or trying to be proactive with regard to a certain bill or proposal,” said Smith.

Grassley’s office hires eight interns per semester and summer session. Five work in his personal offices and the remaining three, which Smith is a part of, work with the Finance Committee staff in three departments: Tax and Trade (where Smith works), Health and Oversight and Investigations.

“The committee has jurisdiction over tax and trade policies, nominees for federal agencies and oversees the implementation of programs such as TARP. I assist the staff with various duties, such as doing research on tax issues,

drafting floor speeches for Senator Grassley, preparing for meetings with constituents and lobbyists. I also help out in preparing for Committee hearings, getting hearing booklets together for the Senator and staff and I get to sit behind the senators during the hearing,” said Smith.

Smith also receives floor privileges, so when a bill with tax-related provisions comes to the floor for debate, he has to be on the floor in the Republican Cloakroom to answer any questions that members may have or refer the to information he has on hand.

By seeing the political and legislative processes, Smith is gaining firsthand knowledge about political systems.

“When I get back to school, I will better understand what it takes for a policy to become law, rather than an idea. This experience has allowed me to use the knowledge I already had about our political system in a practical manner so that I understand why a certain bill may be a plausible solution it is not seeing the light of day for various political reasons,” said Smith.

A typical day for Smith is rigorous. He starts his day off with a 40 minute commute to the Dirksen Senate Office building. He retrieves mail from the Finance Committee front office and distributes it around the office. He then watches the floor proceedings and the votes, except on Mondays and Fridays, because they are not voting days.

Depending on what bill is on the floor and whether or not it is tax-related, he may go down to the floor and watch speeches and debate.

“Last week, Senator Grassley gave three floor speeches that I helped write; they usually last around 20 minutes,” said Smith.

Also if he’s not on the floor, Smith and his fellow interns are usually preparing for a morning meeting. Afternoons are filled with more possibilities for floor speeches and meetings. Many afternoons they have a tax counsel from a large company, like Chevron, P&G or Coca-Cola who visit them with a lobbyist from a D.C. firm. Those conversations usually relate to specific provisions in the tax code that are

either affected by a bill or a treasury proposal.

With all of the political experience Smith is gaining, he plans to shy away from political offices in the future.

“I am looking at maybe coming back to the Finance Committee in the future. I will go to law school after I graduate from Luther.

After I get my J.D., I would probably need to work in the private sector for a few years before I would be able to get a job with the Finance Committee. For the foreseeable future I’m not looking to run for public office. It’s a little more stressful and hectic than I thought, but I think that with a job on the Finance Committee, or any committee, you can influence policy just as much, if not more so, than you can as a member,” said Smith.

•Kelsey Van Tasell (kv.pelladium@gmail. com)

•Nathan Kooker(nk.pelladium@gmail.com)

Page Editor: Benji McElroy

October 26, 2010

Alternative News

Editorial Cartoon

Stewart rallies sanity

Staff Editorial Eric Moore (em.pelladium@gmail.com)

Jon Stewart is a famous comedian and actor who has a show on Comedy Central called “The Daily Show with Jon Stewart.” Stewart’s Sept. 9 show called for Americans all over the country to come together and join his “Rally to Restore Sanity. The march has also been called the “Million Moderate March.” The rally is going to be held Oct. 30 at the National Mall in Washington D.C. and according to their Facebook event page 132,000 people •Illustration by Jillian Sagers plan to attend the rally.

The rally is a gathering for people too busy to attend regular political rallies, and it’s meant for anybody. The participants’ political view is not important. Stewart simply wants to give the 80% of the country who usually have things to do, a chance to rally but be sane about it by not showing rage and reacting disrespectfully to others. The message the rally intends is that it is perfectly acceptable to disagree with any political figure, but do it in a non-obnoxious manor when sharing views.

Stewart has brought up important topics because of the rally. It is leading Americans to think about how they react to others, their opinions, political campaigns and policies.

Even President Barack Obama is in support of Stewart’s rally.

“I was amused. Jon Stewart is going to host a rally called something like ‘Americans in favor of a Return to Sanity’ or something like that. 70% of folks are just like you. They go about their business, they work hard every day, they are looking after their families.

They don’t go around calling people names, they don’t make stuff up, they may not be following every single issue because they just don’t have time, but they are expecting some common sense and some courtesy,” said Obama during a speech in Virginia.

Though many think the funny man’s rally is meant to be a joke, Stewart assures viewers that he is serious, and that he does want this rally to happen.

•Kelsey Van Tasell (kv.pelladium@gmail.com)

Staff Editorial

Letter to the Editor

Political awareness crucial

Article promotes inaccuracies

In modern times, it is not always easy to be culturally aware. Though information is more accessible than ever before through television, Internet and smart phones, it often seems much of the American public is less informed and even apathetic when it comes to current events and politics.

Though our generation may not be aware of it, we’re living through some of the most interesting times in history. Students currently in high school have already seen some of what will likely be considered incredibly pivotal moments in the future. 9/11, Katrina, the recession, our first black president and a whole mess of issues and natural disasters overseas, have occurred in just the past decade. Hopefully, most teens are aware of all these major happenings, but when it comes to more recent problems, many are left speechless when inquired of their opinion on the topic.

As a staff, we feel that some level of political comprehension and appreciation should be expressed by every student. Whether it’s voting for a local mayor, or following the campaign of a potential presidential candidate, political awareness is vital to the function of society. It is impossible for everyone to be content with the way the world is all the time. Everyone wants to change things, but sometimes they don’t feel it’s worth it to try. Getting involved and gaining a basic knowledge of how one’s beliefs compare to laws and policies currently in place can increase unity within communities, families or even through online groups. One vote can make a difference, and no change ever occurred by a lack of activity.

The decisions we make, the officials we elect and the knowledge we attain will affect how the future of the world plays out, as well as how our generation is viewed. It is up to us to decide whether this future analysis is positive or not.

(The Pelladium staff voted 21-0 in favor of this editorial.)

It is important for students to form opinions and express them. As a social studies teacher it is important for me to encourage this process. One crucial part of this process is the use of accurate information to create that opinion. In the last Pelladium an editorial piece contained certain inaccuracies that could misinform readers.

In the column, “Court Oversteps Bounds “ the editor accused the members of the Iowa Supreme Court of advancing their own agenda by amending the Constitution.

The courts, of course, don’t have this power which makes it impossible for any judge to amend the Constitution. The court in this case can only interpret the law. In this case every justice (not just the 3 mentioned in the article) came to the same conclusion on their interpretation of the law. What’s interesting is that the justices actually address this very issue in the written explanation of their decision by explaining the role of the court system. They go further to explain how their function is to rise above politics to uphold the law and civil rights of all people, not just the majority. The executive and legislative branches were designed to be political and grant the will of the people. The judicial branch conversely is to be apolitical, so it can make the sometimes unpopular rulings without outside influence or pressure. In the case of Varnum v. Brien the justices explain how they are adhering to the Constitution by basing their decision on law not politics. In this case it would seem as if the editor is the one trying to “amend” the Constitution by putting political pressure on the justices to judge according to politics instead of the law.

Social Studies teacher Dak Rasmussen

Pelladium Staff Executive Editors: Megan Card, Nathan Kooker, Eric Moore, Kelsey Van Tasell Page Editors/Reporters: Tiffany Carter, Michael Ge, Benji McElroy, Madeline Meyer, Taylor Rennich, Jessica Salpor, Maddy Scholten, Jocelyn Van Dyke Visuals: Marielle Gaiser, Eric Moore, Jillian Sagers, Mitch Shepperd, Micah Zeimetz Reporters: Nick Dorman, Mark Dykstra, Adam Gromotka, Evan Jones, Sarah Muller, Shaun Sokol, Haley Sytsma, Whittney Reinier 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 Editors are welcome 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 errors, libelous content or length due to the space limitations. Letters may be brought to Room 201 or sent to Pella Community High School, Box 486, 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 not necessarily those of the Pella Community High School Administration or the Pella Community Schools 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 errors. •The Pelladium is a member of the Iowa High School Press Association.

Page Editor: Eric Moore October 26, 2010

Brink of Sagacity Eric Moore (em.pelladium@gmail.com)

LIFE

DIGITALIZED

What’s on your mind? Facebook asks us this question frequently, and, much to Mark Zuckerberg’s liking, we reply.

But do we stop there? Are you crazy?

You’ve got 32 little red flashing “notifications” to tend to, not to mention a giant album of pictures to comment on. Little commitments like these have been distracting most of the American public for at least two years now. Heck, The King Cause of Procrastination, as I’ve deemed it, is the reason I’m starting this column at one in the morning. But what is this little site really doing to us as people and the way we live?

Started in 2004, the social networking giant Facebook has become so popular that roughly one in 14 people in the world posses an account, each one of them believing the promise of being “more connected” is being fulfilled.

However, human behavior seems to be illustrating that, yes, we are more connected than ever before, but this link is to our computer screens, not to people.

In fact, it appears we are more convinced of the illusion that we are closer to people simply because we can “talk” to them in such a wide multitude of ways. However, with more time dedicated to online networks and texting, there has to be some tangible time lost in the ancient practice of (hold your breath) actual conversation.

Isn’t it just easier to send a little message through cyberspace and not actually see the person? It may even be easier to act a little more bold than usual.

After all, they won’t have to actually see them. That is, not until they awkwardly run into them at Wal-Mart a few days later. Certainly, this ability hasn’t heavily affected people who’ve lived most of their lives without it, but will younger

generations turn out to be socially challenged?

I was talking to my 12-year-old neighbor (in person), and he said something about hanging out with his friend who lived in his same neighborhood. The boy was to meet his friend at his house around 4:00, which had already been established with the friend. But just in case, to avoid any awkward moments, the boy sent out a second message waiting for confirmation, but hadn’t gotten anything back. Thus, he didn’t visit his friend.

This kid, who has had the “luxury” of technology for the better part of his more social years, decided not to see his friend because he was afraid to ring the doorbell. Why? Is it simply the compulsive and irrational fear of having to talk to someone he doesn’t know if his friend doesn’t answer? I doubt the doorbell would be any kind of hurdle for him to overcome if he didn’t have an account.

Some will say the impact of the new technology is not very great, but I believe my example proves otherwise.

Whether everyone likes it or not, the way we do things, and our definition of what is culturally acceptable or taboo, is changing. You can’t not have an account, that makes you socially uninformed, a recluse. Then again, having one proves to be a huge distraction, possibly the easiest way to waste time in existence.

On a more disturbing personal level, it seems people are able to be friends without even meeting. This odd concept was deemed impossible by skeptics of the past (pre-Backstreet Boy era) but now it’s easier than ever. I receive “friend” invites weekly from people in nearby towns, who I’ve never met in real life. Many don’t even share any “mutual” friends with me. So, why add me? I thought the point of this fancy blue site was to stay connected, not build a connection. This practice to me indicates a step backward in the progression of humanity, and may be one of many to come.

What’s on our minds, Facebook?

Seemingly, you, and not much else.

Reading Is Dangerous Nathan Kooker (nk.pelladium@gmail.com)

The year was 1995, and promising to revolutionize man’s understanding of genetic progression, researchers of the nation’s leading intellectual institutes embarked in an experiment certain to breach the parameters of scientific moral. In hope of breeding the world’s first intermediate species, dozens of female volunteers were impregnated with baboon gametes. Resulting was the healthy delivery of 173 infant hybrids, each person by form, but primate by function. Marked and immunized, the new race, scientifically titled humaboon, was released into the wild. This year, a decade and a half after their conception, the population has migrated to the sanctuary of this very high school.

Without further ado, the class of 2014.

Unsure of how to cope with the introduction of exotic species such as these, I took it upon myself to become educated. Hours of late-night Animal Planet engrained in me a simple naturalist philosophy: observe but don’t intervene. Such have I done for the past eight weeks as the humaboons and I have attempted to coexist in a common habitat. From safe distance, I have documented several aspects of their nature. Below, my journal.

I am not the only observer who has drawn these conclusions. Across the board, other members of our academic environment have noted that this group is simply more immature than the humble freshmen of yesteryear.

Save the few specimens who, over the last two months, have made muchappreciated, earnest efforts to assimilate into the high school environment, the humaboons have earned a stereotype for marked apishness.

In light of this scientific evaluation I’ll admit, living with primates is painful and provoking, but who am I to judge?

I once was that age. I once held the same values and succumbed to the same temptations of juvenility. Whether or not these were to the same degree as I see in the humaboons, I cannot determine, for I myself underwent an evolution. It is only in my enlightened state of seniority that I am able to make these observations in the first place. All I can do is take a calming breath and hope that Charles Darwin had it all right – that monkeys will eventually become men, and that puerile teenagers will in short time mature into efficient, respectful and perceptive adolescents.

ACTION REACTION With the first quarter of the school year now finished and the second quarter just beginning, students shared their suggestions on ways to better the school.

“In the handbook it says we’re allowed to talk for the last 15 minutes in study hall, but normally, that only happens some days. I think it should be every day, because that’s what the rules say.”

-Freshman Samantha Blatt

“I think we could improve the library rules. It would be nice to have a little more freedom. As long as people are actually doing school work, they should be able to go to the library.”

-Sophomore Haley Miller

“I feel like the studyhall room should be a place where people can talk instead of having to be completely silent, because most of the time I need to talk about things that are related to school. Then, the library could be the place with more silent, individual work.”

-Junior Grant Barrick

“I feel like we were barely taught how to use Google Apps, and I’m used to Moodle. I would like it more if we went back to Moodle since I’m used to it, or maybe not have everything be online all the time.”

-Senior A.B. Coleman •Tiffany Carter (tc.pelladium@gmail.com)

Page Editor: Tiffany Carter

Listen. “I Am Not a Human Being” Lil’ Wayne has been in and out of prison standard for Lil’ Wayne. His use of explicit multiple times, but he still continues to language may not be for everyone, but if create spectacular music. The album “I Am you don’t mind it, it’ll be easy to enjoy the Not a Human Being” was recorded before other lyrics. As with the beats, each song his prison term for criminal possession of presents lyrics different from one another. a firearm, and production Drake, Jay Sean and a was continued by a variety of other artists number of individuals, also make their way on including Birdman and DJ to the album, adding Infamous. The album was immensely to the variety released electronically of music presented.

What?

Sept. 27 and met stunning Overall, the album isn’t A recently released success, probably due to the greatest of the year, Lil’ Wayne’s popularity, but it’s still satisfying. It’s hip hop/rap album his widely known jail definitely a must-buy for time and the slick beats Lil Wayne fans. If you’re the album contains. not too into his style, I’d Who? The songs on the album consider at least listening are varied. Each has its Released by platinum to the songs on Youtube own unique sound, and to experience them, and artist Lil’ Wayne they all remain fairly perhaps buying one catchy. I’m not a huge Lil’ or two off iTunes. Lil’ Wayne fan, but I found my head bobbing Wayne may be serving jail time, but he to the beat of almost every song. It’s safe still manages to serve up some enjoyable to say if you’re big on beats, whether it be beats. in the car or at home, definitely pick up “I •Adam Gromotka Am Not a Human Being.” (apg.pelladium@gmail.com) The vocals on the album are the

At a glance...

Watch. The Social Network As a character says towards the end moments awkward, and we never forget of the film, “Every creation myth has its that Zuckerberg is the smartest person in devil,” and the creation of Facebook is the room. It is never made clear if he is a no exception. The Social Network depicts good guy or bad guy, which is interesting. the not-so-glamorous beginning of the Cofounder Eduardo Saverin, played by second largest internet giant, and it does Andrew Garcia (soon-to-be the next Peter so wonderfully.

Parker in the revamp of Spiderman) is the The film is almost 100% dialogue, and most likable character. Saverin tries really with a writer like Aaron Sorkin (creator of hard not to give up on Zuckerberg, even “The West Wing”), that is a good thing. The after he falls to the clutches of Napster language is simply beautiful. From fights creator and crack addict Sean Parker between the main characters to small talk, (Justin Timberlake). Saverin is an oldSorkin’s words immerse the viewer in a fashioned business man, which creates story ultimately about a a rift between him and fight between two geeks the new age Zuckerberg, over 25 billion dollars.

Garfield does a great job While the language is of selling the stepped-on beautiful, it could easily best friend. alienate average movieArmie Hammer plays What? goers. The viewer will two characters, Cameron A film based on the need to bring their full and Tyler Winklevoss. creation of Facebook attention to this movie to The “Winklevi” as appreciate its dialogue.

Zuckerberg says in The film features no the film, are suing good roles for women, Zuckerberg for stealing Why? but the male roles are the idea of Facebook Watch the effects of great. from them. Hammer greed and power on Cofounder and CEO does well, but it is more of Facebook Mark impressive that he plays a friendship Zuckerberg, played two characters well. by Jesse Eisenberg The Social Network is (Zombieland), is depicted as cold, geeky less about the founding of Facebook and and surprisingly anti-social. This is a more about the tale of friends torn apart fictionalized account of the events, but by greed and power. Its traits seem almost the real Zuckerberg doesn’t seem to be Shakespearean. The movie raises the half as cold or anti-social as he is depicted. question; How much are friends worth?

However, none of this matters, because The answer is never revealed, leaving the Eisenberg is outstanding. He makes a decision up to the viewer. scene of angry computer hacking seem awesome. He excels at making the right •Evan Jones(ej.pelladium@gmail.com)

At a glance...

Vander Ploeg Bakery 711 Franklin St. Pella, IA 50219 628-2293 Dr. Gregory Vannucci, D.D.S, P.C. 2601 Washington St. Pella, IA 50219 628-2011 Work Systems Rehab & Fitness 308 SE 9th St. Pella, IA 50219 621-0230

Kathy Kooyman, Realtor, Home Realty 641-416-0182 Pella Orthodontics, Dr. Kim Wass 715 Main St. Pella, IA 50219 628-9195

Support Pelladium Sponsors!

Visit. The Dog House When I first heard that I was assigned more are used to create dogs for everyone to review a hot dog joint, I have to admit to enjoy.

I was somewhat skeptical. I have never I decided to take a personal risk and been a huge hot dog fan, and even when order a gourmet dog. A Gourmet dogs I did eat one, I usually preferred my dog are covered in onions, peppers and with just ketchup. After making my trip to mushrooms and for the price of just $2.79, “The Dog House,” one hot dog completely which seemed like quite a steal. After a changed my mind. polite chat with the chef, we were served The restaurant, located at Dutch Oven pretty quickly. They prepare the hot dogs Pizza’s former location, is very easy to by slicing them down the center and find. My fellow Pelladium grilling the two parts member Eric Moore and I separately. All of this is were instantly attended done right in front of to as we walked in the you to maximize taste by door. We glanced at the getting the food out to the wide range of items customers quickly. After What? located on “The Dog Eric received his Jalapeño Pella’s newest hot House’s” menu. More dog, the two of us sat dog hot-spot than just hot dogs graced down to eat. the white piece of paper.

We were both amazed In fact, hamburgers, by the amount of toppings hot sandwiches and they loaded onto each.

Where? deli products were also “The Dog House” really 830 Washington St. available. So, hot dog wants to make sure you haters have nothing to get your money’s worth. worry about as there is Eric and I both scarfed something for everyone. down our meals quickly. The hot dog’s The hot dog lovers out there will be were cooked perfectly and the ingredients delighted by the extensive and original hot all meshed well together. dog choices that “The Dog House” sells. If you’re driving past 830 Washington The menu offers 15 separate hot dogs, eight Street between 10:30 am. and 8 p.m. don’t of which derived from the chef’s friends, be afraid to stop and grab a hot dog. If you family members and the chef herself want good food for a great price, “The coming up with new toppings to put on Dog House” is definitely the place to eat. the hot dogs. Different combinations of •Nick Dorman(nd.pelladium@gmail.com) peppers, chili, mushrooms, relishes and

Green Supporters...

Bos Landen Golf Club, 2411 Bos Landen Drive, 628-4625 Braafhart’s BP Amoco, 834 Washington Street, 628-2474 Central Cellular, 1530 Washington Street, 6289520 Comfort Inn & Suites, 910 West 16th Street, 621-1421 Dutch Meadows Landscaping, 100 1/2 Vermeer Road, 628-4450 Eyecare Partners, 823 Franklin Street, 628-9225 Jansen’s Decorating & Kitchens, 614 Franklin Street, 628-4247

At a glance...

Leighton Processed Meats, 227 Otley Street, Leighton, IA, 626-3211 Oriental Express, 706 Main Street, 620-1199 Prudential First of Pella Realty, 601 Franklin Street, 628-9840 Sadler Sign & Design, 203 SE 16th Street, 628-9889 Van Maanen, Sietstra and Meyer, P.C., 705 Main Street, 628-3737 Van Maanen Seed & Chemical, 2073 Eaton Ave., Leighton, IA, 626-3471 Windmill Cafe, 709 Franklin Street,621-1800 Windmill Mall Antiques & Collectibles, 637 Fanklin Street, 628-1095 Pella Printing Co.,Inc., 1190 West 16th St.,628-4941

Page Editor: Michael Ge

October 26, 2010

High School Hazard • Jillian Sagers

(bmc.pelladium@gmail.com)

Don’t add extra days The other day I was lazily sitting in class.

It was one of those days where the teacher clearly would rather surf the web than teach, and thus you’re left with 40 minutes to finish a five-minute assignment. I don’t mean to toot my own horn, but I finished in under four minutes. Anyway, the girl next to me finishes a second later and decides to take to texting. No big deal, right? Wrong.

She immediately starts jamming away at her keys. Not just casually pressing the buttons, she’s absolutely wrecking her phone with her jacked thumbs. This is button mashing in the most literal sense.

I’m left with an unbearable 35 minutes to hear button abuse in the first degree. So, really, why bother being at school?

time. It only took 28 days for zombies to completely take over the earth. What if 20 of those 28 days you had to spend in school, instead of putting your hours spent to use playing “Dead Rising?” It only took me six days to finish the movie “Secretariat” and being subjected to that is better than 20 bonus school days. I don’t mean to beat a dead horse (pun!), but that movie was atrocious. If you want to watch animal abuse for seven hours, you can either opt for “Secretariat” or “Doctor Dolittle.” It’s really pick your poison at that point, and yes, the animals being subjected to Eddie Murphy’s acting is abuse.

Extending School’s Not Cool ...

By extending the school year, they wouldn’t just be killing 28,800 minutes of fun in the sun. They’d be reaching into our pockets and mugging us like the proverbial, well, mugger. Imagine if those 20 days spent dripping in sweat during school were spent getting your work on?

You might still be dripping in sweat depending on where you work - but you’d be dripping in sweat and making bank.

Figure if we had seven hours of school per day for 20 days that would come out to be about 140 hours. Now, if you’re making seven dollars and change per hour at your place of employment, then those 140 hours have a dollar amount on them ... $980 and change to be somewhat exact.

Not only are they taking away a potential $980 from work, but they’re taking away your parents’ money in the form of higher taxes. After all, it costs money to keep every school up and running for an extra 20 days every year. So, when you ask your mom for some new Jordans for next school year, don’t expect to have your wish granted because those extra 20 days cost her a pretty penny.

Recently, President Obama had the bright idea to reiterate his love affair with extending the school year. Bush had the wise idea of prematurely declaring “Mission Accomplished,” but Obama may have topped him with this one.

It’s almost unbelievable that someone had the audacity to suggest extending the school year. Does our Commanderin-Chief really want to subject me to countless days of cringing at Betty Button Beater’s barbaric texting technique? It’s hard to blame the teachers for wanting to surf the interweb every once in awhile.

(Random tidbit: what’s more enjoyable than watching a teacher Google stuff?

Google’s autofill let’s you see their previous searches, and man, why did she Google “What do people taste like?” so many times?) I mean, if I had an eBay item ending soon, I’d hand out a second grade level assignment so I could partake in an intense bidding session. That Calvin Klein shirt and pants combo was a darn good deal!

Eddie Murphy or Education?

Our dear leader is proposing tacking on a month or so to every school year.

That’s one less month of glorious summer and one more month of curriculum to memorize for semester tests. Let’s assume he means adding one calendar month, bringing the total number of added school days to about 20. Twenty days is a long

Robbing the Time Bank ...

180 Days is Enough!

It’s ridiculous anyone would suggest adding 20 days. If 179 or 180 days don’t break the camel’s back, then surely day 200 will. Those extra 20 days of dealing with Betty Button Beater, in addition to the thought that you could be out making nearly a thousand bucks, is sickening.

Wait! There’s even more!

Ecol R Videos Photos oge eviews Blogs Polls rts Life Spo News

www.pelladium.com Always a new issue New design coming soon...

Fish & Sheps • Mitch Shepperd

On the Wrong Side of the Tracks This month’s situation really gives us a heart attack. While scurrying through the hall, you’re stopped by the blood clot called hallway traffic. It often stems from one locker, and can be as many as eight people thick. Traffic slows to a trickle, making you late to Spanish.

JA: I really hate how it’s nearly impossible to get from one class to another without getting slowed down by annoying traffic jams. There has to be a better way.

AG: And there is! If we make breaks between classes shorter, say around 30 seconds, everyone would have no choice but to get to class.

JA: I don’t think that’s a feasible break period.

AG: Sprinting from the art hallway to the Spanish rooms is more than doable!

JA: How about we just draw lines to keep the annoying underclassmen next to their lockers and out of the middle of the halls?

AG: What about in front of classrooms? There are so many freshmen in front of the study hall room. In fact there are so many that they spill over and block the stairwell vital to floor connection.

JA: I think in the end it all relies on cooperation between students. If we work to keep to the right and not stand in the middle of hallways, we can avoid ridiculous tardies and awkward collisions.

•Adam Gromotka (apg.pelladium@gmail.com) •Jake Anderson (ja.pelladium@gmail.com)