Dec. 18 Issue

the Dec. 18, 2009 • Volume 90 • Issue 6

Dodge City High School • 2201 Ross Blvd. • Dodge City, KS 67801

Contents

DODGER 12.18.09

Dodger the

Dodger staff

Codi Ehrlich......................Co-Editor Anthony Reardon..............Co-Editor Trevor Otterstein..................Opinion Luke Bunker.........................Opinion

Kristi South....................... Lifestyles

News

Meghan Lee.............................News

Physics Boats

pg 5

The Holiday Showdown

Science Dissections

pg 9

Jordan Stevens.................. Lifestyles Ethan Hutchcraft.....................Sports Hunter Edwards......................Sports

Cristina Yeverino................Reporter Alysia Garvalena.................Reporter Jean-Damien Bouyer...........Reporter Erin Finley..........................Reporter

pg 16

Kristine Rusinova................Reporter

Feature/Entertainment

Cindy Moore........................ Adviser

Christmas Shopping

pg 10

The Safe

Floorshow

pg 12

Ethan Hutchcraft......... Photographer

Editorial Policy The Dodger is a publication produced by the Dodge City High School journalism department. The newspaper attempts to inform and entertain its audience in a broad, fair, and accurate manner on all subjects that affect the readers. The publication seeks also to provide a forum for the opinion of students, the staff of the paper, and the faculty to encourage an exchange of ideas on all issues of prominence to readers.

The Dodger staff encourages letters to the editor, as they constitute avenue for student opinion. Due to space limitations, not all letters can be published. The editor reserves the right to edit all letters for appropriate placement as long as the meaning and intent remain unchanged. The letter must be signed to be considered for publication.

The opinions expressed throughout the publication are not necessarily those of the faculty, the administration, or USD #443. Unsigned articles are a general consensus of the staff, while signed articles are the personal forum of the writer. All letters, columns, stories, photos and art become legal property of The Dodger at the time they are submitted.

2

Lineup

pg 13

Opinion A World Without Music

pg 14

Reading passes test of time pg 15

Sports Wrestlers

pg 18

Girls Basketball

pg 19

Scoreboard

pg 20

Column

12.18.09 DODGER

d Finding the Perfect Present d -by any means necessary

-Anthony Reardon

Finding gifts for people can be difficult. It involves a long process of knowing the person, the person knowing you, you knowing their mother (don’t ask), and then looking through 27 stores to find the perfect item on the $10 budget you’ve set. And we do it all for the simple purpose of finding that perfect gift… which they’ll probably return anyway.

I happen to love giving gifts just about as much as I like to receive them. I just like to make people happy. And, if I do say so myself, I’m pretty good at giving them. I can honestly say I don’t think I’ve ever given a bad gift.

Well… OK. The giant thermos I got the Pops when I was ten is questionable, but I think he did use it once… or maybe that was the bugzapper/lantern I got him last year… The point is I give good gifts. So, in my ever-gracious way, I’ve decided to share with you all the perfect way(s) to find the perfect gift.

You have to really know the person.

Know their likes, their dislikes, their hobbies, their interests, their future plans, and their aspirations. You basically need to learn their college application, and there are a number of ways you can go about this.

You can (a) run a background check through the FBI, (b) hack their personal computer and memorize every site they visit in alphabetical order, (c) not get to know them, but instead break into their home and steal their favorite item, only to give it back to them and say, “I know you missed this, so I bought you a new one.” (d) momentarily kidnap them and steal all the receipts in their wallet, or (e) just ask their mom.

(Disclaimer: Anthony Reardon and The Dodger do not in any way endorse hacking, stealing, breaking-in-entering, lying, kidnapping, antagonizing your friends' mothers, or anything else mentioned, or to-be mentioned, in this column that could be considered a felony

in a given situation. This is a column people, people themselves? and it’s called free speech for a reason… so get However, there are a few things I’d like to over it). briefly touch on before you go out and finish up Sorry, the legal team in my head is throwing those Christmas gifts. bricks at my eyeballs. Anyway, when you get to First, give them something unexpected. I got know the person there are a few techniques to Codi 18 things for her 18th birthday, and it was finding a gift of their liking. flippin amazing (or at least it was in my head).

If the person is sporty, you have to figure out Second, make it something sentimental. Every who their favorite team is, what item with that year I get my mom something that you can’t just team’s logo on it would be useful for them, and find anywhere; if it’s one-of-a-kind, it’ll be that for all that is good in the world CHECK AGAIN much more special. Third, you don’t have to and make sure that they like the team and it’s not spend a ton of money to get a great gift. I only actually the team they like’s rival. spent around $10 on all of my friends’ gifts this If the person is into movies, you have to year and there’s no doubt in my mind that they figure out what genre of movies they like and will be completely happy with them and think something they’ve never seen, but always of me as the equivalent to a Greek god. And wanted, but never got the chance to, but still no, saying that does not make me stuck-up. It intend to see sometime, weather permitting, so makes me Kanye West. long as the movie upholds that person’s personal But in all seriousness, I’m pretty sure standards when it comes to films and the like. everyone will like their gifts this year. So as If the person is into music, you can find them you go out and give and receive this holiday a nice CD, or maybe even an Ipod. Or, if you’re season keep in mind that it really is the thought not all that close to the recipient and don’t feel that counts and that gifts are really just a small like spending a ton of cash, you can go on Ebay part of what the holiday season is all about. and buy them a used CD player from ’98 (it’ll be And on that note, I’ve got cheeriness to considered retro in ten years anyway). spread among my fellow brethren… And mom If the person likes to read, I can only really I WANT THAT LEG LAMP! Merry Christmas think of one course of action, and that is to and Happy Holidays everyone! give them a book on why books are overrated/ outdated/paper-plated/perforated/other things that don’t really make sense but end with ‘ated.

And then… you should scold them because reading bad, fire good. Or get them a gift card.

If the person isn’t the type of person who displays an enthusiasm for anything whatsoever, your best course of action would be to have a sit-down with that person and learn their entire life story. Start with Great Aunt Jemima’s heart attack during a Wal-Mart sale, and work your way up to their junior year when they slipped on a pineapple that was, for some inexplicable reason, lying on the floor in front of a hot stove.

Eventually, conversation will make way for opportunity, and they may just mention what they want. any medium or large drink And that my friends, is probably the soundest Cappuccinos • Mochas • Fruit Smoothies advice I’ve given thus Lattes • Frozen Mocha • Chai Tea • Italian Soda far. After all, who 2701 Gary • Dodge City, KS better to tell what Expires Jan. 20, 2010 people want than the

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3

News

DODGER 12.18.09

Early grads say goodbye to DCHS -Anthony Reardon Stepping into the next chapter of their life a little earlier than the rest of the senior class, this year’s early graduates are reflecting on the past and looking forward to the future –but mostly ready to get out of high school.

This month, The Dodger has caught up with four of these early graduates to figure out just what they are reflecting on and looking forward to. Those students are seniors Sammi Kinkelaar, Laton Dowling, Tara Schubert, and Tara Nichols.

These students, while similar in that they are all extremely ready to be out of high school, have varying reasons for graduating early. For Kinkelaar it is to start the very long time that she will spend in college.

For Dowling it’s a football scholarship to Kansas State University.

Schubert is leaving to get her college pre-requisites out of the way and to work more. And Nichols because she has already acquired all of the high school credits she needs to graduate.

Regardless of their reasons for graduating early, the students took the time to reflect on their most memorable high school moments, and what they will miss about high school.

All four students, when reflecting on high school, pinned their most memorable moments with their participation in sports.

Hosting state golf and playing it with friends are Kinkelaar’s most memorable where as for Dowling it’s winning The Hatchet and winning the district and regional championships. Likewise, Schubert’s was going to State tennis and Nichols was just participating in sports

in general.

“My most memorable high school moments are the ones I got participating in sports,” said Nichols. “I loved traveling with my friends and having fun doing something you love.”

There is another similarity in what all students said they would miss, the everyday people and situations they encounter.

“I’ll miss my friends, the small classes, and Della in the snack bar,” said Dowling.

Kinkelaar, Shubert, and Nichols also all stated they would miss their friends. In addition, Schubert will miss not having to pay tuition.

“I plan to go to DCCC in the spring and then transfer to KU,” said Kinkelaar of the future.

Schubert and Nichols are again similar to Kinkelaar in that they too will be attending Dodge City Com-

munity College and then transferring. Schubert intends to transfer to Wichita State University while Nichols will be attending K-State in the fall. In addition, Dowling will be attending the spring semester at K-State.

Both Kinkelaar, Dowling, Schubert, and Nichols also have one aspect of high school they will not miss; the drama; of which, all plainly stated they will be glad to have out of their lives.

Drama aside, these students have reflected and are ready to move on. Be it the memories acquired through sports, the fun times they will miss with their friends, or the not-so-fun times they won’t miss with their friends, these early graduates are all looking toward the future, in eager anticipation for the next chapter of their lives.

Musical aims to ‘break all the rules’ -Trevor Otterstein The newest musical coming to DCHS is a 1920’s based feature called Thoroughly Modern Millie. It was originally a musical film released in 1967. It will be showcased in the DCHS auditorium Feb. 4-6, 2010.

Orginally written by Richard Morris, the musical is set in Manhattan at the height of the jazz age.

Women were entering the workforce and also working to change the discrimination against them in society. It takes you back to the

time of flappers, the invention of the lie detector, and president Warren G. Harding, 80 years ago in the United States. Anybody and everybody was changing and wanting to move forward.

This musical puts you smack dab in the middle of all the commotion as you watch Millie figure out what values mean more to her.

The new modern lifestyle, or more traditional values of living. Most teenagers can identify with this as well making it that much more enjoyable.

The cast list for the show includes a wide variety of characters portrayed by a skilled cast. The director of the musical is Kelly Knedler, choir teacher for most of the students who tried out for it.

Knedler is excited about the show, and the talented cast should provide for a memorable performance.

Some of the main characters in the musical are as follows: “Millie” who is played by Emilyjane Pyle; “Trevor Grayden” who is played by Shamus Hager; “Jimmy” who is played by Brett Eichman;

“Ms. Dorothy” who is played by Amanda Dahna; “Ms. Flannery” who is played by Danielle Jones; “Muzzy” who is played by Kimberly Schmalz; “Mrs. Meers” who is played by Tylyn Schrader; and the Priscilla Girls who are Friyana Shah, Talia Falcon, Mary Russell, Mariel Ferreiro, Hilary Pingsterhaus, and Gentry Cork.

More information on the musical will be available later, but for now the cast is rehearsing and are anxious for February’s performances.

Kelly S. Henrichs, D.D.S. Susie Reardon 1712 Central • P.O. Box 176 Dodge City, KS 67801 620.225.2888 • 1.800.779.0753 Fax: 620.227.3970 susie@parkerhaskins.com

4

100 Ross Blvd., #2C Dodge City, KS 67801

620.225.6555

News

12.18.09 DODGER

Students hope to escape similar fate of Titanic -Codi Ehrlich

Vigorously paddling and splashing water everywhere, students from Sharon McDonald’s physics classes tested out cardboard boats they constructed. The students went to the Sheridan’s indoor pool to put their boats to the ultimate test. Would the boats hold a student and make it at least halfway along the pool without sinking to devastating pile of soggy cardboard?

“I have been doing the boats since 2002 when I got the idea from a Macksville teacher at the Annual State Science Convention,” said McDonald. “Its a fun way for the students to perform problem sovling activities.”

Students were split into groups

of three and began working on mini labs to learn properties of density and water displacement.

They were then instructed to begin brainstorming ideas for the design of their boat. “[We constructed a] canoe because it looked cool,” said Jenny Barriga, 12.

To test the design of their boats, the students then created smaller models made from cardboard and put them in a tub of water. They added weights to the tiny boats and measured how much weight the boat would h o l d before it sank.

Once it was determined that the boat design would work, the patrons of the sea began building their actual boats.

The students were given two sheets of four by eight feet cardboard and one roll of clear tape.

Two class periods and many cuts of cardboard later, what used to lie in a heap in the center of the lab was transformed into 12 boats ready to be sailed on the open sea.

On Nov. 24, the students went to the Sheridan and tested their creations. After lifting a brave student into each of the boats, the race was on. Paddling with all their might, the captains of the ships kept their eyes on the prize at the halfway point of the pool.

“Building the boats was so much fun! I had a blast testing them out in the water and I learned a lot about the physics behind it all too,” said Matraca Hutton, 12.

All of the boats made it safely giving the students maximum

points for that portion of the project. Some boats were even strong enough to hold two students while other boats ended up sinking to a slow death.

To finish the project, students were assigned to write a paper and complete a packet over the lab.

Although physics may not sound like the easiest class to be taking, the boat lab will continue to give those brave enough to attempt it a light at the end of the tunnel to focus their hopes on.

Faster! Matraca Hutton, 12, paddels in a boat trying to finish first.

• Photo Ehrlich Go Amy Go! Amy Eggers, 12, uses makeshift oars to make her cardboard boat travel faster. • Photo Ehrlich

Seniors!!

Seniors photos are due Jan. 6.

It needs to be head and shoulders pose with a plain background.

Yearbooks will go up to $50 after Jan. 1, 2010

Splish. Splash. Seniors Brennan Slaton and Claudia Baca race one another in the cardboard boats they constructed in physics class. • Photo Ehrlich

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News

DODGER 12.18.09

Band sells fruit to help raise money -Erin Finley Being a part of the band can get expensive. Marching band attire must be purchased, as well as concert apparel and pep band shirts.

With a big trip coming up for the DCHS band, even more money is needed. The money for these kinds of things comes out of the band student’s pockets. To help students pay for everything, the band hosts various fundraisers throughout the year.

“Band expenses are manageable because they give us fundraisers to help us raise money to put in our student band accounts,” said Spencer Barry, 10.

The second fundraiser of the year was fruits as well as soup, cheese ball, and dessert mixes.

“The fruit is really good. People buy it because they love to support the band, and they like the fruit,” Barry said.

The fruit fundraiser began Oct. 31 and ended Nov. 12. The fruit was delivered on Dec. 11. The band never really knows the exact date however, since the company gives short notice.

“Pick-up is interesting, we get three days notice for the delivery and then we have one day to organize and package the fruit,” said Erica Lindberg, director of bands.

Forensics starts second semester

Cultural liaisons

-Alysia Garvalena Forensics is a second semester class that revolves around speech and drama class.

“We emphasize a lot on the drama, not the regular high school ‘oh my god’ drama, but getting into character when we’re reading a poem or playing a normal day to day person in an I.D.A.” said Vanessa Nunez, junior.

“The areas are prose, poetry, solo and duets acts, improvised duet acting, oral interpretation, informative speech, original orations extempt,” said Jenny Locy, senior.

Competitions will take place at Greensburg, Cimmarron, Jetmore, Pratt, Scott City and Kinsley.

“The state forensic competition takes place in Wichita and state champs is in the farther eastern part of Kansas,” said Locy.

After being notified of the arrival date, band parents and students help to organize the fruit and then it is picked up for delivery.

“Fruit has to be delivered as soon as possible due to its freshness,” Lindberg said.

About 40-50% of the profit made goes into the students personal band account for them to spend on what they need for band.

The fruit sales are a pretty good fundraiser, according to Lindberg.

“The profit is high and customers like buying the product. We have some very faithful customers who buy lots of fruit each year,” said Lindberg.

Students who are not in band also enjoy the fruit sales.

“Fruit is awesome!,” said Brendan Wenzl, 09. “I buy it to support the band and all its endeavors.”

Since a big band trip is coming up next year, there are a few extra fundraisers planned.

“During a big trip year, additional fundraising is done that includes a Band Cookbook,” said Lindberg. “We are currently looking into other options for the next 9 – 12 months of fundraising. Many options are being explored!”

The band’s other annual fundraiser is selling band cards which starts in August.

Heritage Panel sponsors array of activities

-Cristina Yeverino Rushing to lunch, a student notices other students are dressed with sombreros and the girls are wearing dresses. Immediate question: What is going on?

At DCHS, exists a club meant to answer this question —a club meant to teach the heritage of different cultures. Heritage Panel has been around since 1997. Maria Hernandez is the sponsor and has been for seven years.

“The main purpose is to promote cultural awareness,” Hernandez said of Heritage Panel’s intentions.

Heritage Panel tries to prevent cultural conflict or misunderstandings by making the student body aware of cultural

holidays. The Heritage Panel hosts assemblies, lunch activities and fundraisers.

Heritage Panel has about 80 members. Some of these members are involved in dance groups that are in Heritage Panel which are Hip-hop and folkloric. Chary De Leon instructs the folkloric dance group. The hip-hop is then selftaught by the members. This year, as in the past, they performed in the Floorshow to a mix of Michael Jackson.

“I was very excited for the whole group because it’s a great dance and different than previous performances,” said hip-hop member Vanessa De La Cruz.

The Heritage Panel will be having a Christmas party on

Dec. 15; members need to get their planners stamped by Mrs. Hernandez or Mrs. De Leon. The Heritage Panel will also have their annual Reina de Cinco de Mayo (Queen of May 5 competition).

There will be an informational meeting in the beginning of March for any female student interested.

“I enjoyed meeting new people and getting to know the girls.

Surprisingly there was no tension or catfights,” 2009 winner Claudia Baca (12) said. “I loved hanging out with the girls,” she added.

The Heritage Panel mission statement is to provide community leadership, promote cultural events, and support education through scholarships.

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News

12.18.09 DODGER

Teaching life skills

FCCLA helps community

-Jordan Stevens FCCLA is a student group that focuses on the development of life skills through character development, creative thinking, and career preparation. This group is available for anyone in Family and Consumer Sciences education at DCHS. “I really joined FCCLA to help me learn about life and help me in the future,” said Yeni Mendez, 12.

This year the FCCLA has been busy with the Health Fair and even concessions at the home games. The club really hopes to focus on the students and becoming better people.

“FCCLA is about YOU! It’s not about the organization. You really join to help yourself.

Anyone who is interested in becoming a better person should join FCCLA,” said FCCLA Coordinator Karen Herrman.

Along with helping the community, students hope to gain a great knowledge for future use.

“I have learned the most from the hands-on activities. The Health Fairs have been a great learning experience,” said Graciela Garcia, 11.

Future events for the FCCLA include the STAR events, which will be held in February.

Where is Santa?

Track Santa with NORAD this Christmas -Anthony Reardon Garnering over a billion hits around Christmas annually, the website NORAD Tracks Santa (i.e. www.noradsanta.org) gives children around the world one more thing to obsess over on Christmas.

The program, which has been around for over 50 years, informs people where Santa is as he makes his rounds on Christmas Eve. To do this, people call into the headquarters and volunteers answer and inform the excited caller as to where Santa is.

It began in 1955, when a Sears in Colorado advertised to children “to call in your Christmas list to Santa.”

Unfortunately, the Sears advertised the wrong phone number and children called the North American Aerospace Defense Command instead (NORAD), which was then known as CONAD. At first, Colonel Harry Shoup wasn’t too amused with the calls, thinking they were a practical joke. But the calls continued, and eventually Shoup discovered the mistake that had been made, and ordered the staff of CONAD to play along with any Santa call that came in.

From that point on, the CONAD/NORAD organization would be most well-known for their Santa hotline which they continue with the assistance of volunteers.

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With the dawn of the Internet, the program developed a website that shows satellite images of a Santa flying around the world and delivering presents to various cities in real-life time. As the Santa travels to various locations, the site gives fun facts about the locations and countries that the magical man is visiting and gives various photos and videos of the places with Santa flying through them as he makes his rounds.

The site, while helping children to gain knowledge of foreign places, also gives them a fun and safe site to go on, on Christmas Eve. And this time, it’s a guarantee they’ll see Santa.

FBLA sponsors dodge ball tourney -Jordan Stevens FBLA’s annual dodgeball tournament was successful again this year.

The tournament took place on Nov. 10 in the DCHS field house. More than 22 teams participated in the event.

“It really was a success this year! We reached our goal and filled up all the brackets, and we had many spectators,” said FBLA Coordinator Melody Head.

It was a close game, but in the end the Los Inquietos came out victorious.

The main goal of dodgeball is to get the other team out by hitting them with balls, but the real reason for the tournament was to bring the school together, and the money that was raised at the event will help the school.

“The real reason we do this event every year is to get the student body involved, and to also raise money for club activities,” said FBLA President Yeni, 12.

FBLA is a great club to get students involved in business. Any student who enjoys, or plans to get involved with business in the future should join the club.

“The dodgeball tournaments are a great way to learn about money management and fund the schools little adventures,” said FBLA member Jenny Barriga, 12.

The FBLA also has the March of Dimes Scavenger Hunt planned which will take place Feb. 8-12 at DCHS. 7

News

DODGER 12.18.09

Friends of Rachel

FoR focuses on mission of ‘Kindness Counts’ -Trevor Otterstein December was a very busy month for the Friends of Rachel (FoR) group at DCHS. The group, which focuses on a mission of “kindness counts,” held a toy drive, worked on its Staff Appreciation and Kindness Counts programs, and held a breakfast for new students in December.

“We worked on a toy drive to help the Salvation Army provide toys for kids that wouldn’t otherwise have had a merry Christmas,” said Melanie Miller, counselor and FoR sponsor. “We ran the drive for one week, from Dec. 7 to Dec. 11.”

In addition to helping organizations outside the school, FoR is

involved in several projects that will benefit both the students and faculty here at DCHS. “We are also working on the Staff Appreciation project,” said Miller. “[This includes] picking certain staff members, writing them thank you notes and sharing a little token of our appreciation.”

Another project that FoR members are involved in is the Kindness Counts project, which rewards students with the chance to win movie passes when they display acts of kindness.

“Our groups all have something going on,” said Sabrina Mendoza, 12, an active member

Dates to Watch December 19 December 21 December 22

December 23- January4 December 24 December 25 December 26 December 31

Last Day of Hanukkah First Day of Winter 2-Hour Early Dismissal Last Day of First Semester Winter Break Christmas Eve Christmas First Day of Kwanza New Year’s Eve

2010

8

January 1

January 5 January 6 January 18 January 21-23 February 2 February 4 February 5

February 6 February 10 February 14

February 15 February 16 February 17 March 5 March 14 March 13-21 March 17

New Year’s Day Last Day of Kwanza First Day of Spring Semester Senior Photos Due to M109 Martin Luther King Jr. Birthday TOC Groundhog Day Musical (7 p.m.)

No School Parent Teacher Conferences Musical (7 p.m.)

Musical (7 p.m.)

No School Valentine’s Day Chinese New Year President’s Day Fat Tuesday Ash Wednesday No School Daylight Savings Time Begins Spring Break St. Patrick’s Day

of FoR. “We have had our first new student breakfast, and it went great! All of the other groups are working really hard to get their stuff ready for next semester.”

The DCHS FoR group started last school year when speakers from Rachel’s Challenge spoke at DCHS about Rachel Scott’s message and challenge of creating chain reactions of kindness.

Rachel Scott was the first person killed in the Columbine High School shootings in 1999.

The main goal of FoR is “to promote kindness and compassion in our school and community,” according to Miller.

“People say that trying to get kindness out of our students is hard,” said Mendoza. “[But] it’s really just a matter of trying!”

Although FoR already has more than 100 members, according to Miller, new members are always welcome.

“Friends of Rachel is a great group to be in,” said Matt McClure, 11, who is also an active member of FoR. “Our goal, really, is to encourage kindness and compassion in not only our school but the communities around [as well].

We are working to make our school and outside community a kind and friendly place for everyone in it.”

Snow Ball 2010 slated for Feb. 13 -Meghan Lee Snow Ball will be held Saturday, Feb 13 in the Commons. The dance is sponsored by Student Council.

The dance was moved from the fall and renamed Snow Ball.

Because fall is a busy time of the year, the move allows more people the opportunity to participate.

“I think Snow Ball will be fun. In the past, students seemed to really get into the formal attire. And if early graduates can attend, it would make the dance come together even better,” Sammi Kinkelaar, 12, said.

This will be a semi-formal

dance. It is asked that students do not wear jeans or t-shirts. Use it as an opportunity to dress-up, though not as dressy as prom.

“I’m down with this whole not so dressy dance. And the dance being moved to winter shouldn’t effect my busy wrestling schedule,” said Hunter Edwards, 12.

All students may attend with current student ID’s. It has not yet been determined if early graduates can attend.

“The change for me really isn’t a big deal. I’m sure the students will enjoy the dance either way.

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12.18.09 DODGER

The Competitors

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11

Entertainment

DODGER 12.18.09

The Safe

Healthy home town food featured - Erin Finley Welcome back to your mom’s kitchen, complete with wooden tables and freshly baked food. The sunny room is inviting, as well as the aroma of muffins wafting through the air.

This isn’t a fancy restaurant; in fact, it’s more like stepping into your own kitchen to grab a glass of orange juice, but that is what puts you at ease. You don’t have to worry about what fork you are using and you don’t have to put on a tux either.

Sound like a place you would want to go?

Well, head down to “The Safe” located on 509 Second Avenue. Be sure to get there early though since there is limited parking space. The Safe opens at 7:30 and offers a tasty breakfast, ranging from quiche to BLT’s. If you find yourself craving something that isn’t on the menu just ask and your wish will be delivered.

“Any suggestions the customer gives are taken as long as they follow our healthy guidelines,” said Connie Rogers, employee.

This place is perfect for just grabbing a small bite for lunch as well, although their hours (7:30 to 2 p.m.) are a little inconvenient for the school going folk. However, they are open on Saturdays (but not Sundays).

The dining area can be crowded during the lunch hour, but it boasts a certain coziness that is rare in restaurants. If you don’t mind a crowd, you definitely won’t regret going on your lunch break. The menu is small and consists of a variety of salads and sandwiches, which are all made with hand-cut meat (not that fake deli stuff).

“The sandwiches are not shaved and all the

Living Room Concerts Ad

fat is trimmed off,” Rogers said. Everyday the restaurant also presents a quiche and soup of the day. Many of the specials are made using recipes created by the staff.

“Most of the quiche are made from a base and we add whatever we want,” Rogers said.

Just hungry for an afternoon snack? “The Safe” provides a wide range of desserts such as homemade pie. The prices may seem a little high at first glance but don’t worry, the price on the menu includes tax.

“The Safe” was first opened in December 2008 after people finally convinced the owner there was a demand.

“People were looking for a healthier restaurant,” Rogers said.

All the food at The Safe is healthy and never fried. The name for the restaurant originated from a safe found in the basement of the old Eckles Department store. The Safe incorporates that history into their decor. Pictures on the wall show the old days of Dodge City and the department store.

“The pictures are from the Eckles family and show the downtown as well as the department store,” Rogers said.

It’s nice to eat at a family restaurant that isn’t a chain and has story of its own. The dining area is filled with regular dining room tables instead of the traditional booth.

“I think dining room tables are better because tables fold out and we can push them together for bigger groups,” Rogers said.

This aspect of the restaurant provides a comfy environment as well as the staff, who are very personable and will be sure to take care of

“It’s A Pleasure!”

Dodge City, Greensburg, Minneola, Satanta, Sublette “Member FDIC”

We support the Dodge City High School

Go Demons!

12

your every need with a smile and some friendly chatter.

The Safe has scrumptious food and the portions are sure to please. If you’re looking for a home cooked meal that is sure to satisfy your hunger, The Safe is the place for you!

Top Ten Musical Movies of the 1960’s

10. Paint Your Wagon 9. Hello Dolly!

8.Thoroughly Modern Millie 7. Oliver 6. West Side Story 5. Let’s Make Love 1960 4. Funny Girl 3. My Fair Lady 2. Mary Poppins 1. The Sound of Music

Source:Top 10 of Everything 2010

1969 1969 1967 1968 1961 1968 1964 1964 1965

News

12.18.09 DODGER

‘Goodbye, Yellow Brick Road’ Floorshow 2009 stuns crowd in a variety of spectrums -Erin Finley Floorshow has been around since the 1950’s according to Jim Mapel, director, and 2009 wasn’t an exception. The annual Floorshow was presented at DCHS on Dec. 12 with the theme “Goodbye Yellow Brick Road”

This year’s emcees were Brett Eichman and Amanda Dahna.

Emcees make up their own script to go along with Floorshow.

“Coming up with the introductions was fun, but a challenge,” said Dahna, 12. “We were still finalizing some of the skits the day before Floorshow! We wanted them all to be funny, but not outrageous or over the top. We had a lot of help from our friends, which made it easier.”

Group acts for Floorshow included orchestra, Heritage Panel, cheerleaders, drama club, Class Act, Jazz Band, and Drill Team.

The entire orchestra filled the stage and presented a piece entitled “Nordic Invaders.”

Heritage Panel danced a hip-hop routine to Michael Jackson songs while dressed in skeleton attire.

The cheerleading squad showed some spectacular stunts that the audience really enjoyed. Drama club performed a skit entitled “The Tragical Tale of Melissa McHiney McNormous McWhale.” This skit was about a lady with a rather large

behind. The story was narrated as her life goes through the ups and downs that come from having an extremely oversized rear-end.

Class Act closed the first half of Floorshow with the Michael Jackson piece, “Will You Be There.”

“I was laughing and cheering the whole time. I really liked Hilary’s big butt,” said Karina Hernandez, 10.

Jazz Band opened the second act with “Get Back,” by John Lennon and Paul McCartney.

Soloists included Adrian Llamas and Maria Schmidt. Drill Team closed Floorshow with a routine called “Pour Some Sugar on Me,” which featured candy themed music.

Other performances of the night included piano solos, songs, bands, and dance groups. Siblings Brett and Mikayla Eichman peformed “He’s My Son,” which they dedicated to Josh Slattery and his family. Cale Morrow and Emilyjane Pyle sang “Baby, It’s Cold Outside.” Amanda Dahna and Shamus Hager told the tragic tale of love between a Starbuck’s worker and customer through the song “Taylor, the Latte Boy.” “Don’t Speak,” was performed

by Danielle Jones and Emmanuel Herrera accompanied her on guitar.

Root Beer Rag. Sebastian Wevers, 12, dazzles the crowds while playing piano during Floorshow. Wevers is an exchange student from Germany. • Photo Hutchcraft

Bands that performed throughout the night were Double Trouble Déjà Vu, Bitter Ground, and the band without a name consisting of Manuel Carbajal, Hugo Hernandez, Marcial Rodriquez. They performed a song they composed themselves called “Tan Solo Una Oportunidad.”

Double Trouble Déjà Vu also performed a self-composed piece called “Through it All.” Bitter Ground went back in time with an energetic version of “Wild Thing.”

Sebastian Wevers, Allen Steimel, and Rebecca Oberley all displayed their talent on the piano.

Weavers performed “Root Beer Rag.” Steimel presented his own composition entitled “Everlasting Lepidolite,” to audience members and Oberley played and sang “Only Hope,” from A Walk to Remember.

The dance group Transformers performed a routine called “Bringin’ It Back.” Members of the group are Cheyenne Conrady, Courtney Ernst, Whitney Ernst, Tiffany Flax, and A’zlynn Thompson.

A surprise appearance was made by last year’s emcees Daniel Weller and Kylee Shuckman, and they treated the audience to a short song.

Before intermission Floorshow

king and queen were announced.

Seniors Brett Eichman and Marissa Herbert were the winners. Students participating in Floorshow cast their vote for king and queen the week prior to floorshow, according to Mapel.

Students who wanted to try out for Floorshow presented their act in front of a panel of judges.

Judges are usually selected from STUCO members.

“The students are judged on organization, stage presence, and overall talent,” Mapel said.

Emcees are picked “through a secret process” according to Dahna. Dahna thinks, “acting alone is much harder than having a person to work with,” and has some helpful advice for future emcees.

“To any future emcees I would say start practicing your quick changes now,” Dahna said. “Also, don’t be afraid to ask for help.

Floorshow is all about the students working together to make a show, so the more help the better.”

Floorshow is a popular event at DCHS based on the number of attendees each year. Tickets were $5 and sold on a first come first serve basis. Students were able to receive one free ticket by presenting their ID.

Emcees. Amanda Dahna, 12, and Brett Eichman, 12, introduce the next act during Floorshow held Dec. 12 • Photo Hutchcraft

13

Opinion

DODGER 12.18.09

What would this world be without music?

Trevor Otterstein

I

14

f you ask yourself this question, you'll probably start to actually think about your life without music. It's hard to imagine because as soon as you do you recognize how much you really do use music in everyday life, and that it can effect everything from your mood to the way you think about things. Without music I probably wouldn't be able to compete in a sport because it makes a difference in my performance when I have something I can get «pumped up» to. Without music I would just feel like standing around or sleeping, but when I hear a song I know I have to get a job done, and go as hard as possible. There are tons of different situations where different people use music to help them in life. Music is used by almost every culture in the world and is a universal endorphin.

Now it would seem that there are two types of people when it comes to music. There are the artists who put all their time into writing lyrics and making music because they are so passionate about it and what it does for them.

Then there are the listeners. The listeners greatly outweigh the artists. I believe that everyone has the same passion for music. In one way or another, the listener is using music just as the artist is, and effects them in the same way. I would venture to say all of you have that song you listen to whenever you are upset, and it helps. Or sometimes you may be listening to a random song, and you feel down about the day and dumb problems, and the song will just make you think «hey, it'll be alright.» Personally, I've had a couple dancing sessions in my truck when I'm just driving around, and it changes my whole day. I might be

dancing to Brittney, maybe Lil' Wayne, rocking out to Three Days Grace, singing horribly high to Mariah Carey, or wishing I could play a mean alternative guitar like John Mayer.

The point is it makes me happy, and that can do wonders for you. If you ever see a guy driving in a little red truck who is dancing, singing, and pointing at you like the song is for you...I'm just trying to cheer up, don't freak.

Another effect music has on people is inspiration. Songs inspire actions, change, art, ideas, and even other songs.

When I say inspiration, I'm not narrowing it down to large things like inspiring a book, another song, or a piece of art. You could be inspired to study for a test because the song made you feel better about what you can actually accomplish.

Maybe you hear a song and it makes you step up and talk to the girl whose number you've been wanting. I think the inspiration comes from the ability of the human mind to manipulate music into life. Sometimes I listen to a song, and I can relate to the situation, or I can picture the song as something that has happened to me. Music can make a nerdy white kid feel like a gangster, and it can make anybody cry if it's the right situation.

Maybe that's more appealing than most people realize. Perhaps the root of our love of music is our ability to take it and use it however we want. I was listening to my iPod one night, and couldn't sleep so I just zoned out on my music. Then I became inspired to write some kind of poem or lyrics, then immediately realized how much influence music has had on me and my daily routine. Inspiration.

So we talked about the personal things music does for us, but what about what it does for society. If you ever watched a scary movie without music, you wouldn't flinch a bit the whole time. Why? Because what puts you on the alert for something scary? «Dunn-uhdunn-uh-dunn-uh.....AHHHH!» If you didn't hear music, it wouldn't capture the emotion and the chills running down your spine.

Dramas need music to show you the

pain a person feels, and comedies use it for scenes with no dialogue and funny stuff happening. All entertainment tends to use music, because movies would be bland without the transition and scene music, and commercials wouldn't impact as hard without a memorable or popular tune.

I won't forget the «FreeCreditReport. com» guys because the songs are catchy and they crack me up. If you're at a party and there is no music, anyone will tell you that it's NOT a party. It simply can't happen. If I couldn't listen to it in my truck, who would I point at? Most situations you use music with now would be very dull if you couldn't have it.

Music can make you happy, sad, mad, in love, heartbroken, jacked up, chilled out, hysterical, up, down, left, right, and EVERYTHING in between. None of us really know what exactly captivates us about music, but we find something. That is enough to attract a person to music. If you really imagine yourself without music, I'm sure it's not gonna be something you'd want to try.

So cherish the music you love, because it's one of life's most thrilling perks. Besides, you never know when you might go deaf!

2008 TOP TEN SINGLES in the U.S.A. in 2008 1. “Bleeding Love,” Leona Lewis 2. “Lollipop,” Lil Wayne feat. Static Major 3. “Low,” Flo Rida feat. T-Pain 4. “I Kissed a Girl,” Katy Perry 5. “Viva La Vida,” Coldplay 6. “Disturbia,” Rihanna 7. “Whatever You Like,” T.I. 8. “I’m Yours,” Jason Mraz 9. “No Air,” Jordin Sparks duet with Chris Brown 10. “So What,” P!nk Source: Nielsen SoundScan

Opinion

12.18.09 DODGER

Reading: a hobby that withstands the test of time

Luke Bunker For this month, I really wanted to write a column about Christmas. Unfortunately, it seems that everything to do with Christmas has already been done. So, I have decided that instead of writing about Christmas this month, I will write about one of my greatest passions – reading.

Ever since I was a child, and before I could read myself, my parents read probably thousands of books to me. Whether it was poetry from Shel Silverstein, the “Arthur” series

by Marc Brown, “The Hungry Caterpillar” by Eric Carle, or selections from Chris Van Allsburg, I reveled in the time when life was so much simpler and just a book could lift my spirits.

R e a d i n g is a great a n d wonderful thing, because it can take you away from all your worries, transport you to a different time, and allow you to experience places you may never be able to go. It also allows you to put yourself in someone else’s shoes, understand what they are going through (and why they are going through it), and feel compassion towards the characters.

As soon I was able to read by myself, I could be found going down to the library with my mom and picking out a great big stack of books to bring home and devour. Within in a matter of time, I jumped from Eric Carle to “The Boxcar Children,” and then from “The Boxcar Children” to “Harry Potter,” and so on.

From early on in my life, the library became my favorite place – my second home.

I loved the library so much that I volunteered much of my time there, from being a Junior Volunteer to serving on the Teen Advisory Board. However, as on any board, drama

arises, and I made the decision to step down for personal reasons.

Because of this, I stopped going to the library for over a year, compelling me to drastically expand my already decent-sized collection of books into a larger, more diverse one. Browsing the online selections at Barnes & Noble and Amazon became a hobby in and of itself; through my (some call it obsessive) perusal of these sites, my knowledge about what was what in the literary world became more solid, and it drove me to read new books I had never before heard about.

Despite having a larger library of my own (I have since returned to the library), I have found it increasingly harder over the years to just sit down and read. With an increased workload at school, in addition to my part-time job, the actual amount of free time I had become squelched, and if I actually did have time to read, I just felt like doing something else.

Lately, though, perhaps because of the Christmas season and things starting to slow down just a little bit, I’ve started rearranging my priorities to allow me to read a little bit here and there. I used to be able to finish a book pretty quickly, but now I just have to take i t in parts, reading a passage or two each night before I turn out the lights and go to bed.

Whether you’re reading from your Kindle or nook , or a good old paperback, reading is truly something to be cherished. I cannot quantify how much I have learned from reading over the years – not only did I learn about different facts and information, but, more importantly, I have started to think twice about people before making a snap judgment, this “understanding” largely being gleaned through my readings.

Even if you think you don’t like to read, I would like to encourage you to do so – you’re missing out on so much. And, if you’re like me, having perhaps lost touch with the written word, you owe it to yourself to get back in touch with literature. And if you’re feeling down, or just want to experience a different way of life or culture, don’t be afraid – pick up a book… and READ.

DODGER Asks What was the best book you have ever read? Why?

Senior

Junior

“The Host by Stephanie Meyer. It’s one of those books you can’t put down. It feels like you’re living in the world described by the author.”

-Madison Reynolds “I read Brothers in Arms. I liked it a lot because the character had a little brother who died in a drive-by. The big brother was going to take revenge, but at the last minute he didn’t.”

-Marlon Hernandez “The Twilight series

by Stephanie Meyer. It makes you get in their fantasy world. I really like the author.”

-Lily Solis

Sophomore

Freshman

“The Summoning. It’s really interesting and mysterious. You don’t really know what’s going to happen next so you just can’t stop reading it.”

-Vanessa Martinez

Faculty

“Hard to pick a best book, but my favorites are children’s books: Winnie the Pooh, Wind in the Willows, Where the Wild Things Are. They are happy placesfeel good books.”

15 -Dee Stoecker

News

DODGER 12.18.09

Students experience ‘hands on’ science classes -Cristina Yevereno Nobody really knows what happens behind each classroom door.

What you usually see are reading, writing, and oral presentations.

There are some classes, however, in which the heart, lungs and liver are exposed.

Dissection is usually the process of disassembling and observing something to determine its internal structure and as an aid to discerning the functions and relationships of its components.

When students enroll in a science class they probably expect to learn about animals, the environment, plants and nature related things. Biology is a required class for most sophomores. Biology II i is more advanced and offers more hands-on activities.

Chris Fawcett teaches a classwhere dissections take place, Biology I and II. “I grew up on a farm so by the

time I was eight years old I was hunting and cleaning game animals,” said Fawcett.

Grasshoppers, crayfish, hookworms, frogs, claws, earthworms, sea star, fish, sharks, snakes, owl pellets, and fetal pigs are the 12 dissections that usually occur in one semester.

“My jaw dropped. I was very shocked, and utterly disgusted, but after the nervewracking first dissection which went smoothly, I looked forward to the rest of them,” Estefanie Ruiz, 12, said.

The animal to be dissected depends on the unit studying. They progress from simple to complex.

“The first dissection was a grasshopper. It was pretty gross.

The last dissection, a fetal pig, was more humanlike, but didn’t seem as gross since I had been used to cutting open animals,” Rose Rojas, 11, said.

A student can probably guess

the stench that will take over the room when a bucket of preserved animals is opened. Fawcett witnessed one girl faint at the smell of an earthworm, and a boy faint during a shark dissection.

Fawcett purchases the animals from Ward’s Biological Supply.

This company sells animals, equipment, books, and pet animals.

“I was so surprised. Just the thought that the animals I was opening up were purchased from the same company I buy my pets from,” Rojas said.

The process of dissection starts with a diagram. This diagram shows the parts of the animal in specific detail. The student must match the animal part with its correct name. After every student has completed this diagram, the students then individually, or in partners, depending on the cost of the animal, which varies from a few cents to $10 each, gather the

materials needed, scalpels, forceps, probes, etc.

A student then gets an animal and places it on their dissecting tray. He/she examines the exterior of the animal and compares it to the diagram. Then while being observed a student slits it open and starts examining the inside and naming as many as they can. This is when hearts, lungs, and livers are exposed. Finally when a student is finished with the animal, they discard the remains in the trash.

“My favorite animal that I dissected was the pig because it was the most humanlike. I got to see how our insides kind of look like,” Christina Young, 12, said.

Gerardo Batres, 12, also had some preferences in the animals he dissected.

“I enjoyed dissecting the shark and pig because of their larger size.

I was able to see in good proportions the internal organs clearly.”

Anatomy students literally see dead people -Codi Ehrlich Walking into the laboratory, a strong, preserving scent reeking of death filled students’ noses. Draped bodies lay on the dissecting tables, waiting to be examined.

“The smell of the lab wasn’t as bad as I had expected,” said Hali Sprenkle, 11.

“It actually smelled kind of sweet.”

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Taking a field trip to see dead bodies isn’t something one would image 40 high school students doing, but on Dec. 15, students from Annie Martinez and Jennifer Lehmkeuler’s Anatomy and Physiology classes did just that.

The students traveled to Garden City Community College where they encountered two cadavers.

One was the body of an 88 year-old man and the other was

Don’t forget to purchase your 2010 Yearbook.

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a 84 year-old woman. Anatomy students from the college presented the bodies to the students.

“Both of the bodies were fascinating,” said Jaclyn Vogel, 11, “and it’s cooler to see a dissected body rather than our dissected cats in our cat laboratories.”

The students saw different body systems that they had learned about earlier in the semester along with parts of the body they hadn’t yet studied.

Due to budget cuts, the annual trip was almost nonexistent. But thanks to much deliberation, the trip was finally okayed by the school.

“This was a trip of a lifetime,” said Teryn Guillen, 12. “It’s awesome that everyone got to go an experience something like that!”

Flatland Graphics, Inc

Embroidery and silk screening Bob Siedl Owner 212 E. Frontview, Suite A Dodge City, KS 67801 620.225.0091 722.594.8372

flatland@rurallink.net www.companycasuals.com/flatlandgraphics

Sports

12.18.09 DODGER

2009-2010 Basketball season begins

Boys basketball begins season with 3-0 start -Ethan Hutchcraft Even with a wintery snow mix coming into Dodge City, the Red Demon boys basketball team wanted to make sure they stayed hot while they hosted the Salina Central Mustangs and the Manhattan High Indians Dec. 4 and 5 in their season openers at home.

The Demons came away with two victories over the weekend and got the season started on the right foot.

Salina Central proved why they were ranked fifth in the state in 5A, taking the lead all the way until the last couple minutes of the game.

Eventually the Demons gained the lead and came away with the 47-46 victory.

On Saturday, the Manhattan Indians played a tough game

as well. However this time the Demons walked off the court with a little easier win, 60-49.

“We came out excited for our first game,” said Miles Morin, 12.

“Our fans were really into the game. and they helped us get the victory,”said Morin.

The Demons traveled to Newton on Friday, Dec. 11 to take on the Newton Railers for their first stop on a three game road trip. The first half proved to be all Dodge City with the Demons taking a 4625 lead into the locker room.

Both offenses cooled down in the second half, but Dodge City still outscored Newton 33-23 and came away with the victory 79-48.

Terrence Williams, 12, led the Demons with offense scoring 17 points. Landon Head, 12, also

assisted Willams with 16 points of his own.

“We did really well as a team.

Everybody executed where they needed to,” said Derek Ridenour, 11.

“Everyone got valuable playing time which was very good for us.

I hope we keep on winning games like that,” said Ridenour.

The Demons next home game will be held on Jan. 5, 2010, at the DCHS Fieldhouse where they will take on the Garden City Buffaloes in the first action of WAC play at 7:30 p.m.

The boys will play three games against Garden City, Maize South, and Great Bend before they play in the Tournament of Champions Jan. 21 - Jan. 23.

Pass it on. Derek Ridenour, 11, looks to pass it to an open teammate during a home game vs. the Salina Central Mustangs Dec. 4. The Demons won 47-46.

• Photo Acevedo

Basketball Theme Nights Tradition exists in DCHS, which consists of dressing up for home basketball games. For the first home game on Dec. 4, students dressed as Indians. For the Manhattan game Dec. 5 the theme dress was Cowboys.

Vino de la Rosa, manager of the boys basketball team and organizer of the basketball dress up days, invites everyone to join in the fun.

Themes for the rest of the home games Before the Game. The DCHS boys basketball team comes together before their first home game of the season against the Salina Central Mustangs. • Photo Acevedo

Classes offered:

• All-Star Cheerleading • Competitive Gymnastics • Gymnastics (all levels) • Ballet (Tap & Pointe) • Power Tumbling • Elite Gymnastics • Back Handspring class

Janet Smith, Owner 620.225.6387 705 1/2 2nd Ave. Dodge City, KS 67801

“Rejoice in that day and leap for joy, because great is your reward in heaven,” -Luke 6:23

Jan. 5 Jan. 12 Jan. 21 Jan. 22 Jan. 23 Feb. 9 Feb. 11 Feb. 19 Feb. 26

Hatchet/Demon Night Toga night Camo Night Thug night Favorite Player night Fiesta Night Opposite Gender Night Hillbilly Night CIA Night —Jean-Damien Bouyer

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Sports

DODGER 12.18.09

Wrestlers set sights on State tourney as season begins ten Demon wrestlers, seven placed in the top four of their respective weight classes. They finished as a team in fifth place.

Jace Banner, 12, took home the gold for the team. Justin Lampe, 11, and Jesse Trent, 11, finished second; Alex Garcia, 10, Brandon Vasquez, 11, and Jacob Eggers, 10, all placed third in their respective weight divisions. Bringing up the end was Eli Evinger, 12, with a fourth place finish.

“I feel as though we could have performed at a lot higher level,” said Lueders. “However, it is a long season, and we are improving week by week.”

The following week the boys traveled to Great Bend to begin

-Hunter Edwards “Our long term goal for the season is to finish higher than last year and contain high team unity,” said head Coach Lars Lueders.

For the 2009-2010 season, this team looks to improve on last year’s finish in WAC and at State.

Last year the Demon wrestling team finished fourth in WAC and battled through State in 10th place.

The team also qualified seven wrestlers for the State tournament. Four placed in the top six.

The Red Demons wrestling team began their season Nov. 16.

They trained hard for three weeks straight to compete at the very first tournament of the year Dec. 5 in Pratt.

At the Pratt Invitational, of the

WAC competition. This dual was the first of many to come. The Demons fell short of the Panthers this time around. The Demons lost, 43-30.

That same weekend the wrestlers traveled to Wellington to compete. The Demons finished in third place at the Wellington Invitational. Both Banner and Vasquez won in their respective weight classes. Other teammates who placed were Trent who took second; senior Justin Blundell, third; sophomore David Montoya, Eggers, and sophomore Pablo Martinez all placed fourth.

The Demons took on the Garden City Buffaloes in a home dual Thursday, Dec. 17.

Practice. Marcos Gutierres, 10, and Tyler Ediger, 11, work on their take downs during practice, Dec. 14. • Photo Acevedo

Girls basketball posts 2-1record to open season -Hunter Edwards The Lady Demons basketball team has begun their season with a pretty good start.

Over the few weeks, the girls trained and practiced hard to open the season at home with the first game of the year against Salina Central, Dec. 4.

They played a close game with a final decision of 47-41.

“I think we played darn tootin’ good seeing how it was our first game of the year,” A’zlynn Thompson, 11, said.

Valerie Ortiz, 12, scored 17 points and Brenna Briggs, 10, earned 11 points for this game.

Kesha Buckner, 10, sank in 10 points as well. Thompson and Codi Erlich, 12, put up a total of 16

rebounds that night.

The next day Dec. 5, the girls went up against the Manhattan Indians in another home game.

The girls once again came out with a victory of 54-50 in overtime.

“We have worked really hard in practice, and it definitely paid off when we won our first two games,” said Ehrlich.

“Unfortunately, we let one get away from us last Friday, so we are going to have to work even harder.”

The next week the girls traveled to Newton along with the boys.

The Lady Demons lost to the Newton Railers 49-45 in overtime.

Leading the Demons with the most points scored in this game was Valerie Ortiz, 12, with a total of 20

points. Trailing were Thompson with nine points, and Briggs with seven. Unfortunately there were no recorded stats for rebounds or assists for this game.

“We still have a ways to go,” said Head Coach Justin Briggs.

“We started the season off pretty good, and stumbled a bit last weekend: but it is still a bit early in the season.”

As of right now, Ortiz is averaging 13.5 points per game.

Briggs and Buckner both average between 9-12 points per game thus far.

These ladies will return to the courts to face against the Maize South Mavericks on Dec. 18.

“Professionals Who Listen”

Northside Veterinary Clinic

208 E. Frontview • Dodge City, KS 67801

620.225.PETS Hannah Hoskinson, 11, is employed at Northside Vet Clinic.

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Looking to Pass. Teghan Pencis, 11, looks to pass to a teammate during a home contest vs. Salina Central Mustangs. • Photo Rangel

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Sports

12.18.09 DODGER

Sports at a Glance…

Practice Makes Perfect. Justin Blundell, 12, Adam Ybarra, 11, practice their moves during wrestling practice Dec. 14. The Demons took on the Garden City Buffaloes in a home dual Thursday, Dec. 17. Their only other home match this season is slated for Feb. 12 against the Liberal Redskins. The team will be competing this weekend, Dec. 19, in the Bishop Carroll tournament in Wichita. • Photo Acevedo

Sign on the Dotted Line. Alex Jenkner, 12, signs with McPherson College to play tennis next year. Pictured with Jenkner is his mother Carol Jenkner, Sydney Bwala, McPherson College coach, and Andrew Sever, DCHS tennis coach. Jenkner played varsity tennis for Dodge City High School for three years. He played on JV as a freshman. According to Sever, Jenkner’s best quality is his attitude and leadership on the court. “He has showed others what it takes to win and to do your best,” said Sever. • Photo Hutchcraft.

Taking a Shot. Freshman Jenny Delzeit takes a shot during a home game between the Liberal Redskins Dec. 14.

The Lady Demons lost 32-26. • Photo Acevedo

Looking for an Opening. Freshman Zach Kirby looks for an opening to pass a teammate the ball during the game between the Liberal Redskins Dec. 14.

Photo Acevedo

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Sports

DODGER 12.18.09

Game Time. The Demons play host to the Salina Central Mustangs Dec. 4, 2009.

The Demons defeated the Mustangs 47-46. • Photo Rangel

Just Dance. the Dodge City High School Drill Team performs during halftime of the varsity boys basketball game vs. Manhattan, Dec. 5. • Photo Rangel

Demon Athletics

Scoreboard Boys Basketball Salina Central 12/04/09 Manhattan 12/05/09 Newton 12/11/09 Maize South 12/18/09 Wichita Collegiate 1/2/10 Garden City 1/5/10 Maize South 1/12/10 Great Bend 1/15/10 TOC 1/21/10 Pratt 1/28/10 Liberal 2/2/10 Sunrise Christian 2/5/10 Hays 2/9/10 Colby 2/11/10 Garden City 2/16/10 Great Bend 2/19/10 Hays 2/23/10 Liberal 2/26/10

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47-46 60-49 79-48 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Wrestling Pratt 12/5/09 Great Bend 12/10/09 Wellington 12/12/09 Garden City 12/17/09 Bishop Carrol 12/19/09 Larned 1/5/10 Salina South 1/9/10 Newton Invite 1/15/10 Hays Invite 1/22/10 Hays Dual 1/28/10 Garden City Invite 1/29/10 Scott City 2/4/10 Liberal 2/12/10

5th L 43-30 2nd -------------------------------------------------------------

Girls Basketball Salina Central 12/04/09 Manhattan 12/05/09 Newton 12/11/09 Maize South 12/18/09 Wichita Collegiate 1/2/10 Garden City 1/5/10 Maize South 1/12/10 Great Bend 1/15/10 Newton 1/21/10 Pratt 1/28/10 Liberal 2/2/10 Sunrise Christian 2/5/10 Hays 2/9/10 Colby 2/11/10 Garden City 2/16/10 Great Bend 2/19/10 Hays 2/23/10 Liberal 2/26/10

47-41 54-50 49-45 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Seniors!!!!

Thank You!

Senior Pictures are due to M109

by Jan. 6, 2010.

“Our family is so blessed - to live in a community where so many people care and take charge. We want to say a special Thank You to Kaitlyn Trent, the Fellowship of Christian Athletes and Mrs. Ralph for organizing, promoting and carrying out the fundraisers for our family! What a wonderful surprise! Thank you, also to all contributed. Thank you also for the prayers for our children - that’s what gets us through each and every trial!”

Wesley, Debby, Joshua, Emmaly and Jared Slattery