September 28, 2010 | Volume 23, Issue 1 Districts Realigned, p. 5
Aquatic Aftermath pp. 6-7
Budget cuts revive familiar Marching Band tunes, p. 4
big brother’s watching:
PE4Life program breaks gymclassroom barrie r Nearly 14% of adolescents, children ages six to 19, within the United States are overweight. This statistic has almost tripled over the past 20 years. In an effort to reverse this trend, Pella schools have implemented PE4Life, a teaching and lifestyle method aimed at encouraging student activity within the school day and throughout lifetimes via exercise and proper nutrition. The PE4Life program has implemented many new ideas to the school district. One such idea is keeping students active by introducing engaging activities to refresh the mind called Brain Breaks. “I have my students walk around and talk. I’ve also had them move their right and left hand at different times to make them think a little bit. I got a worksheet of suggestions for different Brain Break activities, but I’m also brainstorming for new activities. The break really helps the students by allowing them to re-energize,” said math teacher Doug Cutler. •See: PE4Life, page 2
Security cameras: notice them or not, they will definitely be noticing you. The administration is hoping for students to see the new cameras in a positive light. The cameras were set up in their specific locations mid August. At this point, the school is in the final process of hardwiring the server before the cameras will be up and running. “Number one, [we want students to] see the cameras as proactive versus reactive. Number two is to take care of problems. There are 5-15 auto incidents in the parking lots each year, and [the cameras] will take care of them,” said Principal Eric Nelson. Eight years ago, Nelson attended a safe school conference, where the idea of installing security cameras was first presented. Other schools that had representatives attending the conference had seen good results from their own security cameras. The idea for the security cameras was recommended to the school board, and was approved for installation beginning in the 2010-2011 school year. Eight years after the initial proposal, the ideal has became reality. “[The cameras] are a great tool to ensure safety for all Pella students and staff,” said assistant principal Jon Muller. The twelve security cameras cost some $16,500 for equipment and installation. The money to pay for the cameras came from the PPEL (Physical Plant and Equipment Levy) fund. “This money can only be used for building and infrastructure costs. This was the
School installs new cameras to combat student crime
•Photo by Marielle Gaiser UPDATE. Cameras were used for the first time Sept. 21 to resolve an incident of vehicular vandalism in the parking lot. However, no Pella High students were found to be involved in the situation.
same fund we used to pave the parking lot, so it was not a general fund expenditure,” said Muller. Security cameras fell under the budget heading of equipment, within which there was enough money specifically designated to fund the installation of the cameras. “There was a surplus in an area of the budget that could only be used for equipment. It was non-budgeted money that was used,” said Nelson. The cameras have been set up around the school, administration building, bus area and the parking lot. Professionals came into the school and suggested the administration where the optimal locations for the cameras would be.
“I have worked in other schools that had cameras and they worked great at cutting down on issues, such as vandalism, theft, fighting, etc. I don’t believe our high school has had major problems with these issues recently, but my hope is that it will allow to continue to have a safe and secure school,” said Muller. Students agree. “In the parking lots and in the school, I think [security cameras] will do a good job of catching and eliminating potentially dangerous behavior,” said senior Ben Palmer. The cameras are digitized up to a month, and the images caught on camera are accessible through a computer with the use of an administrator’s
password. This way, if there is a problem with stealing or vandalism, a quick check of the images transmitted by the cameras will uncover how the issue came about, and end the problem. School administrators are hoping the cameras will deter students from creating such problems as stealing or vandalism, due to the fact that catching the student(s) responsible is a quick and easy process, as simple as checking the video recording. “[The students] will not even do it in the first place. They will have that thought in the back of their mind [of getting caught]. Tape doesn’t lie,” said Nelson. •Taylor Rennich (tr.pelladium@gmail.com)
Enrollment increase forces enlarged class sizes Twenty-nine heads look up, as math teacher Doug Cutler begins to write the latest lesson over descriptive statistics on the board. In the past, most math, history and English classes contained a cap of 25 students; college statistics is just one of many courses that has had to adapt to the largest enrollment in district history. An increase in enrollment isn’t necessarily a surprise to the administration, but the nature and amount of the increase for the 2010-2011 school year was beyond any expectation. In the 2009-2010 academic
year, 681 students were enrolled at the high school; about 25 percent of this whole came from each class. In the 2010-2011 school year, the enrollment has increased by 21 students, three percent higher than the year before. While this statistic may not be alarming, the effects of a larger enrollment can be felt by every student and staff member. Schedules, class size and course opportunity are all factors altered by the higher number of students. “A large enrollment means class sizes will be enhanced. With larger numbers, it
becomes harder to balance each course. I don’t want to overwhelm the teacher with too many students for which they can’t teach the kind of quality class they have been able to in the past. While more students are always welcome, their presence does make creating schedules a difficult task. I’ve spent the entire two weeks before and after school started on just changing schedules alone,” said guidance counselor Teresa Thompson. •See: Enrollment, page 2
Page Editor: Kelsey Van Tasell
September 28, 2010
Briefly Speaking ...
PE4Life (from page 1) Brain Breaks are meant to be quick one-to-two minute activities allowing students to step back from the class, refocus and become energized. The activities can be done individually, in pairs or within a large group. The techniques range from a jumping form of rock, paper, scissor game to moving thumbs and fingers at separate times, which allow the students to give their minds a rest and refresh. “I’ve tried out some different Brain Breaks in business class with Mr. McKinstrey. I think they are really effective because whenever we’re really tired and not participating in class, he uses them to wake us up and get us going again,” said senior Taylor Carter. Because of the activities, some students have more motivation during their classes. “It gets students more focused for class. The activities are fun, and it makes students want to learn more about the class,” said freshman •Graphic by Marielle Gaiser Spencer Walker. Schools are becoming more PE4Life-oriented because they are a model training school. By becoming a model training school they have started to implement the Brain Breaks and improve the school’s nutrition. Jefferson Intermediate School has even hired a nutritionist to improve the health of the food served. “It’s a good idea to make the nutrition changes because they’re for the best. I really like that we’re still receiving different ala-carte options, like frozen yogurt, because they still taste good,” said junior Katie Sunderman. By becoming a model training school, teachers from all over the United States will be coming to observe PE classes to see if they would like to implement the PE4Life system at their schools. Students also had to sign contracts this year for PE classes to make goals for themselves. The goals were meant to make the students more aware of what they would like to accomplish in their PE classes and what they would like to learn from them. “The students were given the contracts to make them aware of the incoming teachers and to tell them more about the PE4Life system,” said PE teacher Corey Thorson. Last year PE4Life program provided the schools with $10,000 in grant money that allowed the high school to purchase an upright bike, a total body elliptical, 30 Ekho heart monitor watches, roller blades and a hammer power rack. This year the program will provide the school with funds again, but it is unknown at this time what the funds will be used to buy. However, it is known that some of the incoming funds will be used to allow the PE students to go on field trips and to allow the seniors to go on their annual senior ski trip. •Kelsey Van Tasell (kv.pelladium@gmail.com)
Enrollment
class,” said junior Hanna
(from page 1) Martin.
Scheduling has become a conflict with the increase in class size. The limitations implemented on this year’s availability to change classes was established to try to maintain a balance in classrooms. This did help resolve major issues associated by having excess students to one teacher; the effects from limitations also kept students away from opportunities offered by specific courses. “I had to drop child development to take personal fitness during second semester, because every class first semester was filled. I was disappointed because I want to be a teacher when I get older, and I thought child development would be a good place to start. I just wish the counselors could be more flexible to letting a few more students into each
Apart from the disappointment of several students who were not able to take a desired class, a larger enrollment also has an effect on the faculty. While a teacher hopes to be able to help each student excel in their class, having 31 students for only 46 minutes a day makes individual assistance almost impossible. “I think with a larger class size, it becomes harder to do projects and the more creative-type projects, because you have to get each person caught up to a certain point. Streamlining the class is probably one of the ways to keep everyone on the same page.
LABEL! Seniors Elizabeth “Schatzie” Shrout and Brittanie Kochheiser label each other’s body parts in Biology II class. “The activity was really fun, but it hurt taking all of the stickers off,” said Shrout. •Photo by Jace VerSteeg
•FFA’s soils judging team placed first at the South Central District Soil Evaluation Contest Sept. 21. Sophomores Brandon Spoelstra, Landon Van Dyke, John VandeNoord and Shelby Williams placed in the top five for individual points.
•Foods students will run Pella Perks Nov. 5 and 19. Pella Perks to Go is open for ordering on Oct. 6 until 4 p.m.; orders can be picked up Oct. 20. •The Healthy Kids Act has added more fruits and vegetables to the menu. They have also replaced a-la-carte options
Luckily for me, my larger classes are upperclassmen, which means I don’t have to worry as much about them acting up,” said Cutler Increased costs are almost a given with a larger student body. According to Principal Eric Nelson, approximately $8,000 was spent this year on buying textbooks alone. Courses such as speech, sociology and chemistry saw a leap in students, and therefore, a need for more textbooks. While each expense is budgeted for the year, an unexpected hike in students can cause the district to have to use cash from other sources in the general fund to support the number of students.
“... I think an increase in students means we are doing something right.” Principal Eric Nelson
with healthier ones like frozen yogurt and other healthy snacks. There are still more menu changes to come. •Science teacher Carly Montgomery and her husband welcomed their son Joseph Bradley June 22 while Cole Thomas was born to physical education teacher Corey Thorson and his wife Sept. 3.
•Sociology students created “case files” exploring personal issues that become societal issues. •Jillian Sagers (js.pelladium@gmail.com)
Aside from the few strains associated with a larger enrollment, an increase in students isn’t necessarily a bad addition. If anything, the increase shows the appeal the district has to incoming students and parents. With a 95 percent attendance rate, 90+ ITED score and third highest school in the state with the most students involved with extracuurriculars, an increase in students could be seen as a compliment to the effort given by students and staff. “It’s a good problem to have. We have great kids, a great community school system, supportive parents and outstanding teachers. Eventually, we may have to add on an addition or add more services, but I think an increase in students means we are doing something right,” said Nelson. •Megan Card (mcpelladium@gmail.com)
Page Editor: Maddy Scholten
September 28, 2010
Dawson emerges as Tabasco drinking super power Breaking records is no new topic for Pella. Last Tulip Time, Pella set the world record for most people Dutch dancing in wooden shoes at the same time. This year, a Pella resident is setting his sights on another world record. Freshman Bryce Dawson, armed with his trusty poncho and a bottle of Tabasco sauce, is this resident. Dawson has been practicing to break the world record of most Tabasco sauce drunk within 30 seconds. The current record is 189 ml downed in 30 seconds, and Dawson is confident that he will be able to beat the record with time to spare, as he has tied it several times before. “Yes [I will be able to break it]. I have tied it with five seconds left on the clock. It will be easy,” said Dawson. The application for record breaking is a lengthy process. The Guinness Book of World Records gets over 50,000 enquiries from potential record breakers annually. The application for breaking world records includes filling out a registration form and signing a Record Breaker’s Pact. The Record Breaker’s Pact is essentially a specific set of guidelines one must follow to formally break a record for the book. The registration alone can take anywhere from four to six weeks to be processed. Following the actual breaking of the record evidence must be sent to Guinness. Six-to-eight weeks later Guinness contacts applicants with the success or failure of the record breaking attempt. While the actual record breaking has yet to occur, Dawson plans to formally break the record for The Guinness Book of World Records soon.
CHUG. A crowd forms around freshman Bryce Dawson as he downs five ounces of Tobasco sauce at lunch. A video of the event is at pelladium.com. •Photo by Mitch Shepperd
“I’m planning on breaking the record within the school year,” said Dawson. Tabasco sauce drinking isn’t a hobby considered common; many would wonder how one would get into it. Freshman Sage Brandt is intrigued by Dawson’s hobby choice. “He’s got to be pretty crazy [to choose to drink Tabasco sauce]. I don’t think I’d ever drink Tabasco sauce, for any reason,” said Brandt. How did Dawson became intrigued in Tabasco
World Cup win brings excitement to trip as ...
Students immerse in Spanish culture Every four years, the months of June and July host one of the world’s largest sporting events, the World Cup. People from almost every country in the world flock to the nearest television and root for their favorite teams. Seniors Kara Burnett, Shaun Van Weelden, Devon Dawson and Adam Gromotka were given the opportunity to experience the excitement first-hand. The four were able to travel to Spain through an international program for one month during the summer. The group got to study at the Universidad Complutense de Madrid, one of the top universities in Spain, and were also able to experience the celebration through the winning country’s eyes. “I didn’t know that much about soccer before I came to Spain. Now, I have a new appreciation for the sport, and what it can do for a country. Before winning, the Spanish were somewhat divided on certain issues like econom-
ics, but it seemed that during the tournament everyone kind of put their disagreements aside and just supported one country,” said Burnett.
•Illustration by Marielle Gaiser
Soccer had not only brought a means of entertainment, it had brought pride to its people. “While Spain was winning, it was intense!” said Gromotka. “People were running around all over, partying and acting really
crazy.” During the final game between Spain and the Netherlands, tensions were high waiting to see if Spain would make the winning goal and bring home their first World Cup title. “After Spain won, it was like nothing I’d ever seen before. How do you explain 250,000 people all celebrating the same thing in a single block of the city?” said Dawson. The day after winning, the entire Spanish team rode on a double-decker bus around Madrid. “We caught up with the bus just as we got out of the station. You could see all the players and the cup perfectly. A few days later, they set up a place where people could go see the cup up close, and the line stretched around a whole block. Days after they had won, the city still had a buzz about it, and the people were walking around with smiles on their faces,” said Burnett. •Shaun Sokol ss.pelladium@gmail.com
drinking? Dawson says that he hadn’t been planning on doing it, but it just ended up seeming like something worth trying. “It was around two months ago [when I started].I was really bored and was on Youtube. I saw someone drinking Tabasco sauce, and I thought it looked like something I could do,” said Dawson. Dawson’s realization of this “sport” isn’t as surprising as one may believe. With the vastness of the Internet nowadays someone could stumble along a video of a Tabasco drinker quite easily. A simple search on Youtube yields nine pages of Tabasco drinking insanity. Many of the video attempts depict individuals drinking small portions of hot sauce. The current record holder too has a video uploaded. In it, he downs two whole bottles of Tabasco sauce within 30 seconds on the set of Guinness Book of World Records in 2005. Dawson insists that, at least for him, there is no secret trick or maneuver for making the chug any less difficult. Drinking so much Tabasco sauce can be a large order to fill. There must be a secret weapon to drinking it, a magic trick if you will. All he has are a few words of advice. “Don’t cough; it is really painful. It basically is a lot of practice. After awhile, it doesn’t seem as hot anymore,” said Dawson. With two empty bottles of Tabasco sauce by his side, Bryce Dawson may just write himself into the record books for the insanity of timed Tabasco sauce drinking. •Mitch Shepperd(mps.pelladium@gmail.com)
Balloons prepare to launch The Pella Amateur Radio Club will launch a balloon loaded with cameras, science experiments, and radio equipment into near space. Once launched, the balloon will transmit its location via amateur radio to ground control. Once the balloon pops and the camera and science modules land, amateur radio users will use GPS and triangulate the signal from the modules to find them. To use amateur radio, people must take a written test to get a license to use amateur radio. Licensees are known as “hams.” Anybody interested in getting involved with amateur radio should talk to sponsor Jim Emmert. Log on to www.pelladium.com to learn more. •Mark Dykstra (md.pelladium@gmail.com)
Page Editor: Jocelyn Van Dyke
September 28, 2010
Marching Dutch hit the field with Latin theme After weeks of practice and dedication, the Marching Dutch are back with their new show... and a Latin theme. “Revolución”features Venezuelan folk music representing music written during the time of the Venezuelan revolution; it contains an underlying theme of community. “This show will be powerful and full of passion. The whole idea behind a people uniting will hopefully connect our audiences to the deep emotions and Latin flavor this year’s show presents,” said junior drum major Jessica Salpor. The first song, “Neuva Canción,” translates to “New Song,” This song is about a common people coming together during hard times.
“It’s actually really cool. It starts with a lot of percussion, gets soft and slow, then builds up like crazy,” said junior saxophone soloist Sarah Van Maanen. The second piece, “Este Corazon Rota” or “My Broken Heart,” is a darker piece of sadness and loss. “It is areally pretty ballad. It seems a little short, but I like the Latin sound to it, and it will fit in great with the show,” said sophomore flutist Leah Schouten. The third and final song is “Malagueña.” Those with a good memory of marching band shows will remember this song from five years ago, when the Marching Dutch first performed it. This is the first time in years that a song has been brought back to be played again.
“We chose ‘Malagueña’ because we had fun with it when we played it and decided to bring it back,” said marching band director Jason Pentico. This is the first time in at least six years that the show was not written exclusively for the Marching Dutch. The show was ordered pre-written, due to minor budgetary concerns and since “Malagueña” fits in with the theme. Senior Ben Palmer does not think that having a pre-written show is necessarily bad. “This show will be a real crowd-pleaser, with exciting music, visuals and an even more important theme of union,” said Salpor. •Evan Jones (ej.pelladium@gmail.com)
FLIP! Sophomore Olivia Mason flips her rifle during the Sept. 3 halftime show. “The performances have gone really well. I’m happy that I haven’t dropped my rifle yet,” she said. •Photo by Jacob Martin
95 cast members prepare for “The Wizard of Oz”
Magic and whimsy catch the eye and entertain the mind. This year’s Nov. 5-6 musical - “The Wizard of Oz” - incorporates the iconic mystical flair of the 1939 movie. “The musical is going to have lots of specials effects, funny and serious parts, and of course great music,” said junior Hanna Martin, who plays Dorothy. Before the production of “Grease” two years ago, a musical had not been performed by the school for more than 15 years. “The Wizard of Oz” was selected because it allowed the work with numerous actors and actresses of various ages. “I chose a musical that includes a variety of casting options, with many singing and non-singing parts. I liked the idea of including children, so they can see what there is to look forward to when they get older. The musical allows them to express their creative side, as well as working with others. It also gives the high school students an opportunity to develop role modeling skills,” said Director Michelle Chaplin. Once the decision was made, audition processes were widely advertised within the district. Students from all schools were encouraged to audition and participate in the production. Auditions for high school students included singing portions of a song and reading many parts from various characters in the show. The younger children who auditioned
practiced a variety of voices in a large circle. They also sang songs in a group, created choreography, and acted out various parts. “I heard about the auditions because of my younger brother and sisters. I thought it would be a lot of fun to try out since I love the chance to be another person,” said eighth grader Sally Ropes, who sings in the poppy and munchkin choruses. Numerous parts were available and 95 students completed the cast. Practices have begun and work on the set has started. Wes Chaplin is in charge of the “Dad’s Crew” who will be constructing the scenery alongside high school students. The set will depict many of the memorable places included in the movie, including Kansas, Munchkin Land, the Forest, Emerald City and the Witch’s Castle. Although the scenery will enhance the magical feeling behind the musical, a few technical marvels will be in store. “For starters, there is a tornado and a witch that melts. Everyone will need to come and find out more,” said Michelle. Tickets will be available in October from the high school office and cast members. •Jessica Salpor (js.pelladium@gmail.com)
Go to Pelladium.com for more information and updates!
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Page Editor: Madeline Meyer
September 28, 2010
District realignment causes jaunt across state
For the first time in football coach Jay McKinstrey’s history, the varsity football team will have to be dismissed before the final bell rings to head to a district football game. New district realignment has led to a schedule that sends the team an average of over 30 minutes per trip further than the one they had in 20082009. Those years, the average district opponent was a 56-minute drive away. Now, the 2010-2011 opponent average is 89 minutes away; the 2010 schedule alone will take fans over 106 minutes to reach their destinations. “It’s a real problem,” said McKinstrey. “We will have to leave for the Keokuk game around 2:15. The freshman will get out at 12:30. That is definitely the earliest I can remember them leaving, too.” The road game Oct. 22 at Fort Madison will yield similar departure times as both Keokuk and Fort Madison sit over 120 miles from the city of Pella. Not only departure times will be affected by the realignment. It costs $1.50 per mile to send a bus out of town, and the additional miles will add up. Athletic Director Bill Van Horn acknowledges that football revenue helps fund many other sports, and because of the distances traveled revenue from the football program will decrease. “I’m not necessarily worried about our fans. But, the opposing cities likely won’t bring in the same fans that Grinnell or Knoxville would have brought in,” said Van Horn. Although Grinnell does shift in and out of the district on a regular basis, Knoxville will not be in the same district or conference as Pella for the first time ever. They were rescheduled as a non-district
game. Todd Tharp of the Iowa High School Athletic Association explained the redistricting.
“The first thing we look at when making districts is competitiveness. We’ll look at prior history to make sure they aren’t unfair for any team. Geography plays an important part, but we don’t look at a road map to make sure it is absolutely perfect,” said Tharp. Looking at a road map, one would see that Pella fans would likely have to travel through Washington to get to the Fort Madison and Keokuk games, yet Washington is absent from the district.
Mother-son duo shine in athletic spotlight Physical education teacher Megan Clayberg, and son Nathan have something in common: they both started their first day of high school Aug. 23. Nathan entered as a freshman; Megan, as a physical education teacher, head tennis and assistant volleyball coach. “It’s just a little different seeing her [mom, Megan] all the time. It’s kinda weird hearing the older guys talk about having my mom as a teacher in P.E., but it’s always nice if I need lunch money!” said Nathan. The mother-son duo have had no problem getting to know people. Nathan is a part of the football program, playing varsity as as a freshman, a feat rarely accomplished. “As of right now, I’m just trying to learn as much as I can... I’m just taking it week by week,” said Nathan. Megan, having already had one year of
assistant coaching volleyball under her belt, was an influential figure on the volleyball court even prior to helping out at the high school. She coached at Central College for 14 years, winning 12 conference titles in those 14, not to mention three national championships. “I’m enjoying working here because it gives me the opportunity to develop relationships with students, not only just the volleyball players. It’s different from Central because of the teaching load. I taught in the exercise science department two days a week. It was a part-time position that I chose so I could be a mom first,” said Megan, a mother of four. Megan’s energy and enthusiasm were a part of her life growing up. She played high school and collegiate volleyball and basketball, volleyball for four years and basketball for one at Wayne State College in Nebraska. “The world lies to women by saying that they can do it all without compromising something. There is no way; something has always got to give. Use every opportunity presented to you to get better, see the good in people and don’t base success on win/loss records; it’s way bigger than that,” said Megan. •Madeline Meyer (mm.pelladium@gmail.com)
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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
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“If you make one little change in the district, you may mess up three or four other districts’ schedules and competitiveness,” said Tharp. Fans are taking notice, too. Longer trips equals more gas money, and some students are worried about the extra money they’ll have to spend. Senior Jessica Van Wyk is unsure what she’ll be doing on some of those fall Fridays. “I went to every game last year. I don’t know about this year, though. It’s a lot of traveling,” said Van Wyk. Other students still plan to travel. “I plan on attending every road game this year. If I weren’t a senior I’m not sure if I would. I’m excited for the road trips,” said senior Jake Anderson. Varsity isn’t the only one being affected by the long travel. Football coaches worried about long travel distances on a Monday night have decided against sending their junior varsity squads so far. “...especially on a school night,” said Coach McKinstrey, “The kids would be getting back much too late.” This results in Fort Madison’s JV game being scratched from their schedule in favor of a second game closer to home with Oskaloosa. Keokuk will also not be playing against the junior varsity due to the inability to field their own junior varsity team. “It’s going to be a tough couple of years with this district,” said Van Horn. “Hopefully, we can make up for it by getting as many fans out for our games as we can.” •Nick Dorman (nd.pelladium@gmail.com)
Jock Talk
Football. Senior Deckar Lynch Q: What has been your most memorable moment of football season so far? A: “When Mr. Thorson wore his shorts on backwards at practice and didn’t know it.”
Cross Country. Sophomore Gabi Meirick Q: What do you do to prepare yourself for a cross country meet? A: “I hydrate like crazy, do an intense warm up, team prayer and then run, run, run.” Volleyball. Senior Kelsey Fynaardt Q: What is the best part about being a Pella athlete? A: “We have a huge tradition of success. Its fun to continue what has been grounded before us and for each class to build on. Every sport takes a lot of commitment and what you put into each day is nothing less to expect than the next day. Tradition NEVER graduates!”
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September 28, 2010
Page Editors: Megan Card, Jessica Salpor
Mourning for teen victims Drowning Dilemma strengthens communal bond It has been over two months since the tragic July 14 drownings at the Pella Aquatic Center. This event devastated the city of Pella and sparked questions about the safety of the pool. “It was really sad what happened, and I think that the lighting problem should have been fixed a long time ago, ” said sophomore Amanda Langstraat. At a variety of aquatic centers in the state of Iowa, certain rules require swimmers to complete a test proving that they are capable of swimming on their own. It is then up to the lifeguards to make the decision whether they are allowed in the deeper ends of the pool. Some community members believe that the same test should now be required here. “It should be standard procedure for a lifeguard to require a swimming test for anyone that shows lack of swimming skills in the deep end. Many public pools already do this, and I feel it should be mandatory at all public pools,” said a mother of three, who wished to remain anonymous. Parents also think it is a good
POLL:
Are you hesitant to swim at the public pool?
17% 15% Yes
85% 83%
No
83%
120 students/staff were surveyed •Survey/Graphic by Micah Zeimetz (mz.pelladium@gmail.com)
idea to take have children take swimming lessons at a young age, so their child knows how to maneuver in the water. The Pella Aquatic Center offers lessons to all age groups, so they are available to anyone who is interested. Having taken lessons does not guarantee that a child can avoid drowning, but it could reduce the risk of it happening. “I have two kids, and I had them both take lessons. It makes me feel better knowing that my kids have had experience swimming before I let them go in the water without my supervision. I think that all children should take lessons before swimming alone,” said mother Kim Beebe. The pool was closed for inspection immediately after the accident occurred. Two weeks later, on the day of its reopening, over 100 gathered in remembrance of the two teenage boys. Prayers were shared amongst residents as they paid their respect. Church ministry
leaders offered uplifting messages to all who were involved in the accident, everyone from lifeguards to emergency personnel and staff members of the camp. Sophmore Jessica Gerdes, who attended the memorial, said, “It was really sad, especially to see the lifeguards there. But, it was good how everyone came to support them. It would be difficult to have to face such a terrible event, and I am sure they will all carry this experience with them forever,” she said. The community’s response to the deaths has had a remarkable effect on such a small town. Neighbors have come together to honor the two lives that were so abruptly ended, and to show their support for those who have been blamed in connection to the deaths. •Haley Systma (hs.pelladium@gmail.com)
While the emotional implica-
tions from the summer drownings have been felt by both the families of the two victims and the surrounding community, what lies ahead promises to include years of litigation. According to attorney Tom Duff, the families of the two victims will be filing a suit in the next few months against the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Central Electric and the city. With approximately 3,308 unintentional drownings in 2009 within the United States alone; each year, lawsuits collect over millions of dollars in damages for the victims and their families. In reference to this particular case, the plaintiffs (the families of the two boys) will be looking to show through a preponderance of evidence that the defendants were negligent in their duty to care for the victims. “A conventional negligence case basically means to show that someone had the duty to care for someone else, and this duty had been breached. As a result, that person under their
close the parent-child relationship was, and through the testimony of experts, how much the child could have made in their future careers,” said Koop. Any decision made over the matter will be a long, drawn out process. It is estimated that if a suit is filed within the next few months, the case won’t even get to trial for at least a year and a half. The trial, itself, will require a year or more in court. With this timeline in mind, the entire litigation could take almost 3 years until an actual decision would be made. An ending resolution seems to be nowhere in sight. “Each civil case is based on a specific situation, so it is hard to determine how long the trial will take and what the outcome will be. If the victims are found more than 50% liable, their families won’t receive any compensation, but if are 50 or below, the families could be looking at a hefty amount in damages. Time will tell as to what the outcome will be,” said Koop. •Megan Card (mcpelladium@gmail.com)
BOONE COUNTY, IOWA Between 1961-1990, 29 drownings occurred in Boone County alone, proving that it’s not just today that this issue exists. A terrible accident occurred July 25, 1965, when six young people: two girls ages 5 and 9, and four boys, ages 5, 9, 10 and 13, drowned.
OKOBOJI, IOWA On July 1, only a few months ago, another 30 year- old man was boating with his wife and son on Lake Okoboji. Authorities do not know if he jumped voluntarily or not. Little information was released about the drowning.
Compare Contrast
Litigation lingers for city in the end. Iowa law doesn’t completely excuse the city, so it will be up to the prosecution if they have enough evidence to show that the city breached some kind of duty. This case altogether is going to have to be very fact specific,” said Koop. It should also be kept in mind that the suit will be a civil case. Eight jurors will decide the matters instead of twelve, which is the number in a criminal lawsuit. Criminal and civil cases are different in the idea that a civil case is usually looking for some kind of restitution for damages, while a criminal case entitles incarcerating someone for breaking the law. Instead of proving a case beyond a reasonable doubt, a civil suit only needs the scale of justice to be in favor of one side due to a preponderance of evidence. “The decision will be completely up to the jury to determine if there was enough evidence to award the two families with restitution in accordance to their loss. A lot of how much could come from this is case specific, and it depends on how
CARROLL, IOWA Earlier this year, a 30 year-old man was swimming in a pond around seven at night somewhere near Carroll. Witnesses state the man seemed distressed while swimming to shore. He was already dead when paramedics arrived.
•Sarah Muller(sm.pelladium@gmail.com)
•Graphic by Micah Zeimetz
care was harmed. It would be like if someone ran a stop sign and hit someone walking across the street. As soon as that person started driving, they had the duty to protect those around them, and by hitting someone, they breached this duty,” said Nationwide attorney Lori Koop. While the suit may also be filed against the city, Iowa law makes it difficult to extract damages from cities that own and operate public swimming pools. According to Iowa Code Section 670, cities are relatively immune from liability on claims related to swimming pools unless the action or inaction of a municipal employee. A case made against Pella would have a difficult time proving that the 10 lifeguards on duty were at fault, and that what occurred was a direct result of their own actions or inactions and not just the negligence of FCA or Central Electric. “This could turn out to be more of a comparative negligence case, where more than one party is found responsible
Drowning is the third leading cause of injury in Iowa. According to the Iowa Department of Public Health, between 2002 and 2006 the state of Iowa had 29 deaths and 15 hospitalizations. The following lists some drownings which have occurred this year.
Pella Pool Rules:
Carlisle Pool Rules:
1. Swim at your own risk! The City of Pella is not responsible for lost or stolen items. Use lockers provided.
1. Children age 8 and under must be supervised by a person of at least age 14, or a certified Red Cross babysitter.
2. No horseplay, running, fighting, towel snapping or shoving allowed on the deck or in the water.
2. Swimmers under the age of 18 will not be allowed to use the deep end without completing the required swimming test. This test requires swimmers to swim across the pool and back in the deep end next to the lifeline under the supervision of a lifeguard.
(not all rules are listed)
Student Rule Remarks “The rules cover all the guidelines and it would be great if people would read them more often! The rules are a good reference for people who don’t understand why they got in trouble.” -Senior Kirsten Maakestad “Pool rules are only as good as the ones enforcing them. We have a lot of good rules, but people don’t enforce them.” -Senior Jordan Wilmes, Carlisle High School
3. No diving in shallow areas of the pool or other areas marked no diving. 4. Report all injuries to the staff immediately. 5. Children 5 and under must be supervised at all times by an adult or guardian who is also swimming. 6. No running, no gum, no spitting, no smoking. 7. Chairs must be placed at least three feet from the side of the pool. This allows lifeguards access to all areas of the pool.
(not all rules are listed)
3. Petting or necking is not permitted. 4. There will be a 10 minute rest period that begins at 10 minutes before every hour. All swimmers under age 18 mus get out of the pool. 5. In case of an emergency, all swimmers will evacuate the pool and the pool area immediately in order to aid the lifeguards in their rescue procedures.
•Jocelyn Van Dyke(jvd.pelladium@gmail.com)
Page Editor: Benji McElroy
September 28, 2010
Alternative News
Editorial Cartoon
Court oversteps bounds After losing in the June 8 primary, many thought that Republican gubernatorial candidate Bob Vander Plaats would make the decision to run as a third party candidate in the November elections. However, he announced on Aug. 6 he would not be running as an independent candidate because he is “focused on the future of our state and maintaining our freedoms.” This new campaign centers around the slogan “Stop Judicial Tyranny. Defend Marriage. Protect Freedom.” Ultimately, the goal is to defend freedom by voting “no” on the retention of three Iowa Supreme Court Justices. The three justices facing the retention vote this year are Chief Justice Marsha Ternus, Justice Michael Streit and Justice David Baker. The basis for working to oust these three justices began with the Varnum v. Brien ruling of April 2009 when Iowa was declared a “same sex” marriage state. The problem that arises is the fact that justices do not have it in their jurisdiction to amend Iowa’s Constitution. Their job is to apply the law, but instead, they ruled Iowa’s Defense of Marriage Act as unconstitutional. By governing from the bench, they blatantly overstepped their bounds. It was not their role to amend the constitution. The Legislature makes the law. The Governor executes the law. Only “we the people” can amend our constitution. This isn’t even an issue of gay marriage, and it’s not an issue of offending certain people either. If the Iowa Supreme Court will overstep their bounds in one way, what’s to stop them from stepping out of their jurisdiction again? Really though, what’s the big deal, anyway. Right? Wrong. If unelected officials can redefine marriage, they can redefine who should pay taxes and how much they should pay, who can or cannot own guns, and whose private property is protected or not. It becomes an issue of how many freedoms Iowans are willing to blindly give up. Something needs to be done to send a clear cut message that justices who abuse their power will not be tolerated. Citizens are given a voice for a reason, and they need to use it. Taking advantage of their rights as Americans is the smartest thing they can do. Spending time becoming educated on policies and the ins and outs of Iowa’s Constitution is a wise choice as well. By making these efforts, a message can be sent saying that Iowans refuse to allow themselves to be ignorant any longer. They will instead take an active role in the politics that affect their daily lives, and they will say: “It’s time to stand up for freedom.” •Jocelyn Van Dyke (jvd.pelladium@gmail.com)
“Stop Judicial Tyranny. Defend Marriage. Protect Freedom.”
Eric Moore (em.pelladium@gmail.com)
StaffStaff Editorial Editorial Pella copes in wake of tragedy
Our city was shaken at its very core. Word of two heartbreaking drownings spread, and a perfect little town dropped to its knees as emotions erupted, confidences were reexamined, and a persistent media began to gnaw away at the final chords of our sagacity. In response, we scrambled for a coping mechanism. We could have taken the easy way out; many towns would have. We could have blanketed ourselves in apathy and pointed an ignorant finger. Effortlessly, we could have disregarded the anguish of the lifeguards, students, and FCA volunteers who were traumatized by the event. Instead, Pella opted to treat things in a different way: as a community. We united in sympathy and thought and faith. We supported one another and confided in one another. Prayer groups congregated. Counselors stood ready to comfort pool employees. Letters of condolence were sent by the masses to the unfortunate families of the deceased, families who none of us have ever known. Adopting a compassionate mindset and standing beside our fellows, we properly overcame the initial grief. However, though the heart of Pella is eased, this is only the eye of the storm. Today, death is never accompanied by mere closure. In fact, the prolonged repercussions of such a tragedy often provoke yet greater amounts of suffering and hardship. We are bound to experience the aftermath of these drownings in months to come. A barrage of legal action is likely to ensue, testing the efficiency and impartiality of the judiciary system. New, policies will be instated. The Pella Aquatic Center facilities and staff will remain subject to questioning and uncertainty. Undoubtedly, pool-goers who find themselves swimming in that infamous corner of the deep end will always recollect upon the dire happenings of July 15. This story isn’t over, but the unity we built is beginning to erode away. The Pelladium staff urges you to help revitalize the sense of community which blossomed in the heat of the misfortune. Only together can we manage the adversity ahead of us. Take time to think, take time to talk and take time to be a caring part of this body once more. (The Pelladium staff voted 25-1 in favor of this editorial.)
What
you think
“The U.S. was founded on democracy and leadership should reflect the people’s views, so I think [Bob Vander Plaats’] campaign is appropriate.” -Junior Jake Wassenaar
“I don’t believe this is the first instance of the Judicial Branch overstepping those bounds, but because it’s such a hot button topic, the attention is being drawn to it now.” -English teacher Laura Fank
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 September 28, 2010
Reading Is Dangerous
Brink of Sagacity
Nathan Kooker (nk.pelladium@gmail.com)
Eric Moore (em.pelladium@gmail.com)
In the seemingly endless rapid expansion of technology thrust upon the American people in the past 20 years, many new time-consuming, computing and entertaining types of gizmos have amazed us and changed the way we live. The Internet, cell phones, and, as Betty White would say, “The Twitter” are now each daily rituals performed almost religiously. But in the past five years, an expansion on something we already had has continued to develop: video. Try to remember the first time you heard of YouTube. Before you saw that clip of a cat playing the piano, would you have committed 20 minutes to random footage on the Internet? Would you have even thought of being able to see comments detailing other people’s opinion on the cat, much less being able to see how many people had seen it and given it a 5-star rating? Due to both adorable, funny videos on video-sharing sites, and increased quality in video used to identify and arrest criminals who’ve committed burglary, assault or other crimes, a spike in video use has arisen expeditiously. The feature is on our cell phones, on webcams implanted in our computers and on high quality camcorders the size of pocket calculators. Anyone can upload, edit and view video. It’s everywhere we go. It’s now engraved in the fabric of our lives. Just a few weeks ago, security cameras were installed at our school. Our school in the miniscule town of Pella, Iowa. If we’ve got security cameras, there has to be millions of them in other schools, businesses, malls and hospitals around the nation. It’s literally difficult to spend very much of our lives un-filmed. But is this shiny, new-fangled way of life always beneficial? Sure, it’s terrific that I can video-chat with my cousin who’s spending the year in Switzerland, or that the coal miners in Chile are able to communicate with rescue workers and their families. But, at some point, is there a way to be able to retain some sense of privacy? This also brings into discussion the availability of information, and
the speed at which we know things. I can log onto Facebook for five minutes and learn more about what’s going on in people’s lives than if I attempted gather all that gossip the old fashioned way (talking). Information about us is more public than ever, and is, incredibly, also essentially “owned” by Facebook. When you sign up for an account, you also click “yes” on that little checkbox next to that giant wall of text. You know, the one that you didn’t even glance at? Take a closer look: “The Company an irrevocable, perpetual, non-exclusive, transferable, fully paid, worldwide license (with the right to sublicense) to use, copy, publicly perform, publicly display, reformat, translate, excerpt (in whole or in part) and distribute such User Content for any purpose.” Any thing you say, anything you do, they can use. For any reason at all. Who else has that kind of power? That’s not a privilege people normally give to just anyone. But when everyone has Facebook, there isn’t really another viable alternative that bombards you with constant updates about pointless information. Do we want to be scolded publicly for acts as trivial as sneaking candy into the movie theatre, or abusing the honor system to get free slushies at Wal-Mart? What about just having a conversation with someone, or being somewhere with the peace of mind that you’re not being scrutinized by an overweight security person? Sure, such simple pleasures are taken for granted now, but with ever expanding security in both homes and businesses, as well video taken by Fanny Pack Joe on his cell phone, it doesn’t seem far fetched to estimate that our entire lives will soon be on camera. Certainly, this day is inevitable. Our lives, the rate at which we live them and how we live them will accelerate with each new gadget. What limitations or restrictions will be enforced to compensate for the change? Only the very near future holds the answer.
ACTION REACTION
For 17 years I had succeeded in concealing my true identity as an Iowan. However, come the third week of this past August, that rural side of me was finally exposed. I found myself, plaid clad, at the Mecca of Midwesterners: The Iowa State Fair. Admittedly, I wasn’t at the fair to show my livestock or swoon over a crate of blue ribbon vegetables like the rest of my country folk. I went for the free stuff. I was there to offset the price of my entry by collecting as many free pens, magnets and gogreen shopping bags as I could grasp within my frugal fingers. With this objective in mind, I was, of course, tickled to find as I toured the grounds a kiosk boasting a stack of complementary umbrellas. It was a Des Moines Register booth, and there looked to be a steady trickle of other country folk walking away with their own newsprint raingear in hand. As I approached, a Register representative intercepted me. “Sir, may I interest you in a free umbrella?” he asked. “All you have to do is fill out this card!” He spoke with a surprisingly immature intonation, as if he had somehow evaded puberty. Handing me one, he asked if I had ever subscribed to the Register. I analyzed it. This was no free umbrella; the guy wanted my billing information. Suddenly, my quest for costless trinkets was paused as I became immersed in an impromptu session of one-sided bartering. “It’s a three-month subscription for just $15 dollars a month. And the umbrella is on us!” he proclaimed. “I’m not interested, man.” “Ten dollars a month.” “No thanks.” “How about I throw in this five dollar Kum and Go gift card?” “I’m actually illiterate…” Though I was losing interest in the umbrella, I simply couldn’t escape from his psychological shackles. “You can’t refuse this offer: The umbrella, the gift card, and three months of the Register for only $15 total.” He was just trying too hard. My confrontational instincts consumed me, and I threw a curveball. “Why ever would I pay for a physical newspaper
when I could just read it online for free?” His pitiful rebuttal: “You can make up to 30% in coupon savings, and you’re safe from the radiation that is emitted from your computer monitor.” I shook his hand to make him feel good, turned, and merged back into the river of country folk forging deeper into the fair. That’s the end of the story, but not the end of the sermon. Now that I am a whole month older, a whole month wiser, I am grasping the doleful reality of this all. I walked away because I thought that pubescent-voiced salesman responded with the only two reasons to read a newspaper. Mankind is currently in the process of squeezing every element of society into a digital pulp, as to compliment his latest marvel called internet. News is no exception. Why not read my reports online? It’s free, user-friendly, customizable, and only a click away, just like everything else. I can learn about everything noteworthy happening anywhere on the planet, verify such facts with other news sources, see what the Facebook community thinks, check the weather, and order a pizza. Simultaneously. The world within 36 inches of my nose. It’s irrefutably convenient, but it’s irrefutably unsettling. The value of everything is represented by a handful of pixilated numbers on a computer monitor. All that was once matter is only touched by a small white arrow. Voices I heard are condensed into terse typography. Newsprint, something that was once an icon of the informed American, the arguable catalyst of society’s progression, will not dodge the movement. I wish there was an uplifting twist, some surprising ray of hope. But, when a high school journalist and a Register employee can’t put their heads together to unearth the benefits of the traditional newspaper, things must be looking grim. That’s just the way the world works I suppose; everything ages and is eventually rendered obsolete. Who knows how many issues this old dog has left in its day.
•Maddy Scholten (maddys.pelladium@gmail.com)
Perhaps one of the biggest changes students have experienced this year is the use of Google-Apps. The email/calendar/documents extraordinaire has taken over the school, lessening the use of Moodle. All staff members and students were given an email account allowing them to access Google-Apps., and while there are some downsides, most reviews have been positive.
“I like Google-Apps a lot better than Moodle. I’m not computer savy, but it’s easier to use than Moodle. Overall, there’s been a few glitches, but I think Google-Apps is more user-friendly.” -Senior Devon Dawson
“I think Google-Apps is easier than Moodle, and it saves paper. A bad thing though, is that if the computers are down, we have no access.” -Freshman Beth Kreykes
“Google-Apps is a good idea for school because we don’t have issues with not having certain programs at home. Now we can work on things at any place at any time.” -Junior Tyler Holtrop
“I like Google-Apps. because it allows you to share things with your group members. It can cause problems when your teachers aren’t able to receive it.” -Sophomore Allie DeMeulenaere
Page Editor: Tiffany Carter
Read. Who Moved My Cheese? Life is a road full of changes. Whether the “short.” The actual story (minus the foreword) is changes are negative or positive, it’s important to 73 pages long. Although not as step-by-step and learn how to work with and around them to best drawn-out as most self-help books, Who Moved fit your life. In the book Who Moved My Cheese?, My Cheese? is full of simple rules, cleverly placed author and medical doctor Spencer Johnson creates on graphics of cheese, that appear as the story a short story that leads the reader to progresses. more proactively meet the changes Although the book carries a experienced during life. message for all, the way it’s written The story begins with a reunion is almost too simple. Whether or of high school friends, sitting and not the author decided to write it What? talking about life at a restaurant. this way on purpose isn’t really One of the friends (this is where clear. It’s almost like listening to a A short read about the progression of the plot goes out parent tell a bedtime story to a kid; taking on life’s changes very slow-paced, drawn-out and on a limb) begins to tell a story of a couple of mice, Sniff and Scurry, and repetitive. Perhaps the intent of Dr. their friends, little people named Johnson was to keep the focus on Why? Learn a life Hem and Haw. When the cheese the message instead of the structure lesson or two they first found gets moved in the of the story, but the way Who maze, the difference between the Moved My Cheese? is written made proactive mice and blame stricken humans (who it less enjoyable overall. also have a primal longing for cheese) promotes the Poor writing aside, Who Moved My Cheese? is idea of finding new cheese over sitting around and a wonderful short story that everyone who has to asking, “Who moved my cheese?” experience changes in life should read. It’s amazing how powerful of a statement this •Adam Gromotka(apg.pelladium@gmail.com) short story makes. No exaggeration on the word
At a glance...
Play. Halo: Reach
“Halo: Reach,” the long-awaited ending to the famed Halo series, which has consumed millions of gamers’ lives world-wide, is finally here. It delivers the best Halo experience to date. The campaign has the player take on the role of a character known only as Noble 6, the most recent addition to the spartan squad stationed on the planet Reach, Noble Team. The events in Reach take place before “Halo: Combat Evolved,” the first game of the series. Everyone who knows the history of “Reach” will be aware that things don’t go well for the planet, but despite its well-known ending, Bungie was still able to keep me on the edge of my seat through every conversation, cut scene and action-packed moment. Noble Team starts off inspecting so-called terrorist activity at a downed military communications array nearby, and that’s when things get a little out of hand. I was instantly thrown into the action as the game flung me from level to level at a brisk pace. The campaign lasts close to six hours on the normal difficulty setting, which I found to be just the right What? The ending amount of time to tell the story without to the Halo series getting repetitive or boring. B e a u t i f u l environments powered by Bungie’s amazing new engine flourish When? as “Reach” is brought to life. Stunning Released backgrounds and a huge nearby planet really helped remind me that I wasn’t on September 14 Earth anymore. While the graphics haven’t been stepped up much since Reach’s less popular predecessor “Halo ODST,” they are still a great addition. The gameplay at “Halo: Reach’s” core remains the same as previous installments, but with the addition of new weapons, environments and impressive new armor abilities, there is enough change from previous Halo games to bring back the skeptics. The squad’s characters, while not gripping, are still rather likable. The voice acting is great and well-cast. “Reach” is also armed with outstanding music playing throughout the campaign rising and lowering in intensity through the highs and lows of the different levels. The option to play the campaign either alone or with friends, along with four drastically different difficulties, help make “Reach’s” campaign highly replayable. “Halo: Reach” has exceeded all of my expectations with superior graphics, a stunning campaign and great competitive multiplayer. Whether the player is helping his squad fight off hordes of covonent in order to save a doomed planet, or blowing stuff up for fun in custom multiplayer lobby, they will definitely be content with this masterpiece that is “Halo: Reach”. •Micah Zeimetz (mz.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
Support Pelladium Sponsors!
Listen. “Terrible Things”
“Terrible Things,” the debut album release from the band of the same name, gives an impression right from the start. Yes, it’s a dumb band name. However, it is my hope that the name will not offset attention for the band, because once the first few tracks are heard, the name won’t even matter. Terrible Things is a “super-group,” of sorts. Fred Mascherino, formerly of Taking Back Sunday, lends his voice and guitar skills as he joins Andy Jackson (also on guitar) of Hot Rod Circuit and Josh Eppard, former drummer for Coheed and Cambria, seemingly random combo, but the result is tantalizing. My knowledge of this band’s existence stems from an unintentional attendance of one of their shows in August at The House of Bricks in downtown Des Moines. They were the second band to play after Circa Survive, the What? A new headlining band and our reason for attending. alternative rock album (titled “intro”) stumbles The intro song around cutely with finger picking before throwing you off a metaphorical building. Who? Released From there, the tracks provide a steady stream of the alternative-rock sound that has come by “super-group” to be expected from Maschernio’s other Terrible Things work, but without any screaming vocals and including a more pop-oriented sound. Most of the tracks are fairly similar sounding, however, having their own energy and unique blend of hooks to make it hard to not want to sing along as you realize you’re in the wrong lane and have to swerve back to not hit a cross country runner. However, in spite of most of the songs sounding like pretty alternative-rock sameness, there are a few exceptions within the album that transcend the consistency a bit. According to the band’s MySpace page, the CD is meant to be a concept album based around fires which occurred in Mascherino’s hometown. The fires devastated the town, and clearly left an impact on the band’s front man. Rage and confusion can be seen in some more powerful songs, and many lyrics seem to be accusing of people, most of whom have probably affected the lives of each band member. Overall, the sound is solid, energetic and relatable. Despite the fact that it’s not the most unique album in the world, an obvious effort came from the band to create something new, which is evident in the lighter tracks. •Eric Moore(em.pelladium@gmail.com)
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, 628-9520 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
Page Editor: Michael Ge
September 28, 2010
High School Hazard •Jillian Sagers
The school’s half-hearted attempt to save money/go green/make life difficult for students really just makes me feel green around the gills. We’re partying like it’s 1932 in the Pella School District, and it’s just depressing. What’s with this cutting down on paper business? Is it really financially necessary to make printing all but illegal so that the school can install spy cameras? I mean, it’s great that the cameras make me feel like James Bond every second of the school day, but I don’t think that it’s worth the price of losing paper privileges. If the school is that motivated to save our broke rear ends, then why not save money elsewhere?
Loan Teachers Like Landon ...
I’m sure there is some way to put teachers out on loan, ala professional soccer. Let’s say Knoxville has a teacher go down with an injury; we’ll say she’s pregnant. They’ll need a replacement but can’t possibly risk their students’ educations with a substitute, so they need a temporary replacement. We can loan them Mrs. X for the remainder of the season, er, school year, for a set cost. Their kids remain educated while we save ourselves from financial turmoil. If the higher-ups aren’t eliminating 99% of paper use (approximate number) for the sake of saving a few bucks, then they must just want to go green. Seriously, it’s all the rage, and I don’t blame the administration for wanting to appear trendy. In fact, when I heard about all of the sweeping changes, I assumed that our new Assistant Principal was Al Gore.
Jump Into 2010 ...
Luckily, the solution to being ecofriendly while using a lot of paper, is quite simple. We replace our stinky old buses with some grand spankin’ new Toyota Priuses. The school buses are so 1960’s anyway, and you can’t expect me in good conscience to let little kids roll into school in those things. The Priuses are so 2010, plus, they offer a solid 51 miles per gallon. They start at $22,800, but can the
administration really put a price on being hip? Plus, just putting a few teachers on loan to other schools could help pay for the cost! You can pack a good four or five kids in one, and if we’re talking elementary kids, then I’m sure you could get upwards of eight or nine in there. The only downside is they don’t come in yellow, but I’m sure a substitute could be found. (My personal favs are Blizzard Pearl and Winter Gray.)
Drop Moodle Like It’s Hot ...
The last possible reason for cutting down on paper is that the superiors want all of us little students to have the hardest time during our time at school. By opting to cut paper out of our diet, they’re force-feeding us Moodle, and let me be honest, Moodle tastes like spinach. To start off with, Moodle is just unhandy. It’s much easier to have my homework given to me straight up, opposed to having half of it given to me and making me responsible to go on Moodle and see if I have another half of homework. Secondly, because the superiors want our lives to suck, they decided to change our passwords from cute and handy five digit guys, to ugly 20 digit guys (another approximate number). Seriously, trying to remember my new password is like playing a game of Scrabble inside my head, desperately trying to pull the right letter out, but finding it impossible. I might as well be Vin Diesel from “The Pacifier,” doing some baby dance to unlock Moodle to save the day. The solution? Sonicwall Moodle. Moodle is more dangerous to my developing brain than any unfiltered Google search…maybe. Still though, just block Moodle and move on. No one wants a half diet of paper and a half diet of Moodle. It mixes (and tastes) like water and oil. At the end of the day, unlimited paper for everyone! It would fix 85 percent of all students’ problems (my last approximate number) and really, let’s just party like it’s 2010, or some other period in time when paper was free flowing.
2010 Duchess Yearbooks are available for pick-up in the high school office: •Richie Bales, Tiffany Dailey, Meredith Doyle, Morgan Elzinga, Andrea Huffman, Nadya Khapochkina, Robert Leonard, Jacob Martisovits, Caitlin Miedema, Raymond Morales, Zech Ogden, Clint Reeves, Kelsey Schippers, Jacob Skarda, Alaina Spaur, Hannah Tangen, Katie Terlouw, Kimberly Terlouw, Jacob Van Steenwyk, Tyler Van Wyk, Zach Vander Horst, Jacob Veenstra, Dylan Verhoef, Todd Wegter, Jordan Yougnman
Fish & Sheps •Mitch Shepperd
After three years of living with the absurdities, we have finally decided to voice our thoughts on the frustrations of high school. We intend to gripe each month about something that annoys, irks or otherwise frustrates us about high school life. What follows is the first greivance from us, Jake Anderson and Adam Gromotka. JA: You know what bugs me? PDA’s in school hallways. I am sick and tired of seeing high school couples mackin’ on school property. AG: School’s for learning, but I don’t really want to learn how you feel about someone. I’ve already got social networking for that. JA: Yeah, I could care less about how you and your squeeze “squeeze.” Student on student action in a school setting is just annoying and inappropriate. Now teacher-onteacher action, that could be awesome! AG: Uhh, I don’t think...
Limited numbers of the 2010-11 school calendar are still available for just $2. Order yours now! Send cash/check, your name/address to: Pella High Publications, Box 468, Pella, IA 50219
JA: No, I’m not talking stuff you see in a movie theater. I mean like friendly fist bumps or secret handshakes. How cool would it be if Mr. and Mrs. Linn just randomly highfived during the day? AG: That would be pretty sweet. Back on the subject though, we’re talking about public displays of affection among students. We should all strive for eight hours of work, eight hours of sleep, eight hours for play, but the average student spends eight hours at school, and like four hours sleeping, so... JA: That’s 12 hours for you happy little couples to “play” to your heart’s content! But when you’re in our school, keep it clean boys and girls. Adam: I waste enough time on Facebook already; the last thing I want to see is “Jim is in a relationship with Jill” all over the halls. Let’s slow it down, and keep the PDA’s to a minimum. •Jake Anderson (ja.pelladium@gmail.com) •Adam Gromotka (ag.pelladium@gmail.com)
Page Editor: Taylor Rennich
September 28, 2010
Homecoming 2010: A week of tradition
•Junior Hanna Martin
•Senior Mariah Vande Lune
•Junior Marielle Gaiser
•Principal Eric Nelson
Class competitions, dress-up days, school spirit ... Homecoming Week had it all.
•Junior Austin Davis
•Seniors Lisa Houser, Heidi Gritters
Class Competition Champions: Hallway Decorations: Juniors; PowderPuff Football: Seniors/Freshmen; Jungle Volleyball: Seniors *Due to the Pelladium’s Sept. 24 printing deadline, some Homecoming information was not available.
•Seniors Daniel Borgerding, Jesse Blauw, Ryan Van Norden
REACH. Junior Isaac Pezley catches a pass in the air during the homecoming ultimate frisbee game as junior Jordan Baker makes his move. “The highlight of the game was Zak (Vander Hoek) had seven catches for touchdowns, and we beat the seniors.” •Photo by Molly Neil
•Junior Madeline Meyer
ROLE REVERSAL. Monday night of Homecoming, guys participated in jungle volleyball while the girls put on football jerseys for powder puff football. The senior boys won jungle volleyball while the senior/freshmen team won powder puff. “It was a dissapointing loss for the juniors. If it weren’t for senior bias, we would have had a chance. [The best part] was smaking the seniors in the first game,” said junior Sam Davis. “My favorite part [of powder puff] was definitely having a solid senior defensive line and then coming back to win the game in the last few seconds,” said junior Olivia Warner. •Photos by Marielle Gaiser, Tiffany Carter
ROYALTY. After coronation ceremonies Monday morning, court members gathered with their parents for a lunch, then they headed off for official photos at Designer Images’ studio. The court included seniors Preston Dixon, King Beau Vander Sluis, Queen Karissa Schaudt, Leah Engelbrecht, Brooke Fessler, Thomas Yoder, front, and Chris Bandstra, Elizabeth “Schatzie” Shrout, Spencer Boeyink and Mackenzie Vander Molen. The court attended assemblies at schools throughout the district at the end of homecoming week. “It’s been awesome hanging out with all the people on homecoming court and getting to know them,” said Boeyink. •Photo by Designer Images
DANCE. Seniors Daniel Borgerding, Josh Pringle, Alex DeJong and Drew Kleis perform thier lip sync. [The best part] was practicing at Daniel Borgerding’s house while watching college football, “ said Kleis. •Photo by Mandy DeMeulenaere
AND THE 2010 HOMECOMING KING AND QUEEN ARE ... Seniors Beau Vander Sluis and Karissa Shaudt read from the homecoming scroll after they were announced homecoming king and queen in a Sept. 20 morning assembly. Vander Sluis and Shaudt spoke at pep rallies at district schools Friday and were also honored at Friday night’s Homecoming game. “I’ve really enjoyed this week. It was a real honor to be homecoming queen, and I will remember it forever,” said Shaudt •Photo by Blake Lanser