The Little Hawk March Issue

TheLittleHawk Iowa City High School - Iowa City, Iowa - Volume 70, Issue 5 - March 15, 2013 - www.thelittlehawk.com

the

CHANGING

FACE OF CITY HIGH’S

MUSIC With the array of talented students in the music department it’s no surprise that City High has achieved prestigious standings. Over the past years they have won three Grammy awards, 10 show choir grand championships, and ranked second in the state for qualifying AllStaters. Now, things are changing.

Story by Emma Baxter and Sonali Durham

After 35 years of teaching music, head choir director Dr. Greg Grove is retiring.

“I’m not retiring because I don’t enjoy my job anymore,” Grove clarified. “I love my job. More than anyone probably knows. I love the kids I get to work with and I’ll miss the music they create. City High is an exceptional place. But I need to think about my health and family.”

Despite these incentives, the decision to retire was incredibly challenging. Beginning with singing hymns with his mother in church, music has always been a part of Grove’s life.

“I’ve always loved music, especially choral music,” Grove said. “My mother was involved and so was her father. My son is even planning on becoming a music teacher. It just runs in the family.”

Grove has a lot to look back on. Yet, of all his accomplishments, including receiving four American Choral Directors Association awards, Grove decided that his greatest impact on the music department was integrating all types of students.

“I was a jock growing up, but I sang,” he said. “I wanted the jocks to know that there is nothing not masculine about choir. Whether you’re dancing in show choir or standing up and singing, choir and athletics pair really well together. I think it’s finally gotten to the point where it’s acceptable for jocks to know they can sing and be cool.”

The district will be looking at applications for head choir director in the coming months. Although he is stepping down, Grove hopes that his students will stay involved.

“I’ve been here a long time, the department could use a new style,” he said. “I don’t want the students to quit. Quitting doesn’t honor me, it means that what I did didn’t really affect your life like I hoped it did. I just want them to know to hang in there and accept change.”

Kellee Darner ‘13 agrees.

“It’s sad that we won’t be able to come back next year and see him,” she said. “But it will be exciting to see the new program. Dr. Grove was unique in that he made everyone feel comfortable and welcome, even if you weren’t in the music department.”

With the extra time he will have, Grove Wiebener. As with any change in leadership, plans to indulge in hobbies he never got the Stucky has ushered in some adjustments to chance to dive into, including woodwork and the department. Some students found it hard reading up on World War II, as well as invest- to get used to the new leadership, but they ing more time into his lawn mowing com- soon adapted. pany. He is happy with these plans, and feels “When she first arrived we thought, ‘This that, this time, he is ready to move on. is different, why are you here?’ But as soon Most people don’t know that Grove al- as we got to know her, everything changed,” most retired at the end of last year.

Orchestra member Evelyn Galstad ‘16 said.

“I had the papers signed and ready to “She’s very opinionated, and I like that she’s go,” he said. “But at the last second I realized very forthcoming with us.” that it wasn’t my time yet so I just ripped it Although Stucky plans to continue traup and threw it away. I had fear for what the ditions like the annual Dessert Concert and unknown was. I felt like I had more to do. the Europe tour, she also wants to put her This year I still have the fear, but I’m more own “stamp” on the program. at peace with my decision. I know it’s in my “I’m most excited about making this my best interest.” program, while keeping the tradition of such Throughout his career, his main focus an excellent orchestra program at the highest has always been about standard possible,” Stucky the kids. said.

“I’m choking up As she nears the end of thinking about it. I love her first year here, Stucky and respect my students believes a lot of progress has so much,” Grove said. “I been made with both orthink that shows when chestras.

I’m with them. It’s the “I think that Concert personal connections Orchestra has done amazthat will last forever.” ingly well,” she said. “They With one trimester have really buckled down left, Grove plans to go and done what I’ve asked out with a boom, which them to.” already began with show Music secretary Mary choir completing its seaMahaffa is also new to the son with a record-breakCity High music department ing third grand champithis year. She started this fall onship in one year. after the retirement of for“It was an amazing mer music secretary Ann way to end the season, Robinson.

-Dr. Greg Grove they worked so hard and “[City] is a fantastic it payed off,” Grove said. place to be,” Mahaffa said.

“I really just want to give “It’s challenging because a great last concert. I don’t want the kids to you’re never done with your job.” sing me a sad song, I want it to be positive.

As music secretary, Mahaffa does everyOf course the last time I cut them off will be thing from fitting students for concert dresses incredibly hard, but I know we all have great and tuxedos to managing department money things in our future.” and tour funds. She is also in the perfect position to observe all aspects of the music department.

NEW LEADERSHIP “I hadn’t realized that for the music diJOINS DEPARTMENT rectors it’s not a nine-to-five job,” Mahaffa said. “They are always working.”

Seven months ago, Megan Stucky took The music department is looking forover the role of orchestra director, after the wards to the upcoming Dessert Concert in retirement of longtime director Candace April and the Spring Concert in May.

“

I'm not retiring because I don't enjoy my job anymore. I love my job more than anyoneprobably knows.

“

DR. GREG GROVE TO RETIRE

Varsity debate duo advances to national competition Seniors Ava Vargason and Kieran Green won the annual District Debate Tournament in Burlington last month. This victory sends them to Birmingham, Alabama to compete in the NFL Tournament in June.

By Daniela Perret danielaperret@thelittlehawk.com Last month, City High debaters Ava Vargason ‘13 and Kieran Green ‘13 competed in the annual District Debate Tournament held in Burlington, Iowa where they placed first and qualified for the National Forensic League tournament, one of the largest high school academic gatherings in the world.

“It was really exciting,” Vargason said. “We felt like we deserved it, we had been working so hard. It was awesome.”

Every policy debate team in the Eastern Iowa district competed in the tournament, including teams from Iowa City West High and Cedar Rapids Washington. Each school brought four teams, equaling 12 teams in total.

“There were three teams that

we really focused on,” Vargason said.

“The top team from Cedar Rapids Washington and two teams from West High.”

The teams debated for or against Transportation Infrastructure Investment. The Vargason/Green duo won every round of the tournament except for the second round, beating both teams from West High. If they had lost any other round they would have been eliminated from the tournament completely.

“At that point we had to win every single round; we had no room for error,” Green said. “But I’d say we definitely got it together and prepared ourselves well for the following debates.”

The NFL tournament will be held in Birmingham, Alabama from June 16-21 and will be hosting over 200 teams. Vargason describes her expectations for the tournament.

“I think that this tournament

in particular will test a lot of different things that other tournaments haven’t,” Vargason said. “Since the National Tournament is so big, it has to have judges that are people like kids’ moms, so you have to kind of conform to who is judging you. And so I think it will be a tournament that will test different skill sets that haven’t been tested this year.”

Both Green and Vargason are looking forward to the tournament and are hoping to make it to the elimination rounds, where the top 64 teams will compete.

“It’ll be exciting to see how we do. It’s nice to have another tournament left,” Green said. “It’s just sort of like a big culmination of a lot of hard work that has been put in over the past four years. It’ll be a nice time to reflect on what debate has meant to us as an activity. Debate has probably been the most influential activity that I’ve done in high school.”

The City High debate team gathers for a photo shortly after winning the district title.

A2 PREVIEW

MARCH 15, 2013

Section A

The Little Hawk Feature Magazine

5 NEWS: WHAT IN THE WORLD?!

4

NEWS: DOWNTOWN TOP CHEF

DANCIN’ FOOL

By Will Barker

By Daniela Perret & Oliva Parrott

Hotel Vetro holds third annual local restaurant competition.

By Renata Stewart

The Little Hawk takes a fresh perspective on this month’s world news.

NEWS: NATIONAL EDUCATION REFORM

16

In-Depth News

A&E PREVIEW: TRACEY MORGAN AND KENDRICK LAMAR

A detailed description of Obama’s ed. reform plan, as well Republican ideologies and a local edge.

By Jacob Potash Two big names in comedy and hip hop bring their talents to IC.

14

Calvin Windschitl ‘14 is pursuing his dream of becoming a professional dancer while balancing school and his social life.

8

A&E: 4th AVE SPRING SHOW

ON THE COVER: THE GAP YEAR Laura Schwager is taking a year off from school to explore what the world has to offer. re Hawk Featu The Little

ine Magaz h 15, 2013 Marc

By Lilly Reitz Show choirs concluded their season with a final home show.

by Alex Perez

Section B

s 10-11

*see page

1

4

SPORTS: BOYS & GIRLS TRACK

SPORTS: A LIFE OF SOCCER

By Daniella Perret & Annika Wasson

By Olivia Hamilton

As the Spring sports season begins, the track teams begin the indoor training season.

Corbin Sholz ‘13 has become a prominent leader for the City High soccer team.

iPHONE ENCRYPT

By Will Barker Former Navy Seals are currently in the process of designing an app that would limit government surveillance of messages and calls.

From your editors...

Cassie Wassink & Renata Stewart As seniors, our sights are set on the afternoon of May 24th, when we’ll be walking across the stage of Carver Hawkeye Arena and into unknown territory that grown-ups dub our “future”.

But life at City High continues, believe it or not.

Teachers will have a new batch of promising students, up-and-coming athletes will cycle into Varsity positions, and The Little Hawk will have a new editorial board. As with all changes, the newspaper’s shifting of roles entails a time of transition,

and it is our responsibility as current editors to make it as seamless as possible. As much as we’d like to pretend that without the class of 2013 there will be nothing, we want to see next year’s paper make huge progress, and reach new journalistic heights. So, we are saving the chance to reflect on our time as editors for next issue (spoiler alert!) and this issue we will focus on the time of transition, of slowly stepping out and making room for others to step in.

The challenge that we now face is how to go about embracing this transition, while also focusing on the work we’re putting out now? Well, spoiler alert number two! In order for us to do this, we’re changing up the spring publication schedule a little bit. The senior class this year has so much invested in The Little Hawk that we wanted the last issue of the year to be as good as it could possibly be. And -- somewhat selfishly -we still want to be a part of the excitement. So, instead of handing over the final issue to the underclassmen, we’re coming out with it in April, and will still be involved in the process. Instead

of stepping back out of the picture, we will take our last issue as a chance to go out with a bang, combining all of the creativity and talent that has surfaced this year. Then, in May, those of us who are graduating will put together the Senior Salute while next year’s staff begins assembling ideas and templates for the 2013-14 Little Hawk, perhaps even preparing a first day of school issue to start next year off strong.

Before this preparation happens, however, rising seniors need to be chosen to spearhead the process. This year’s staff has an inordinate number of seniors. And so, as we prepare to relinquish the roles that we have held, we are committed to leaving The Little Hawk in good hands. We are admittedly rather protective of our beloved newspaper, and we want our successors to be the same way. We want them to put in, and more importantly get out, as much as we have over the last few years. Of course, we cannot ultimately control the investment that our successors will put into this paper, but we can do our best to leave them with the tools that they will need to be success-

ful. As such, our training task is twofold: to the juniors who will be taking our place, we will offer more responsibility, allowing them the chance to test themselves while we are still around to help. And to the group of freshmen that joined for third trimester, we will offer basic journalistic skills so that they can return next year with a solid foundation of journalistic writing. Even as we are sad to say goodbye, our plans for next year are stilted by the best kind of problem: too many dedicated junior staffers, eager and ready to take the reins. And so, while this makes a decision that much more difficult, it also makes us extremely hopeful about the continued success and bright future of The Little Hawk.

The Little Hawk

NEWS

A3

Between the Lines offers young writers cultural exposure

By Ellen Carman

ellencarman@thelittlehawk.com

Between the Lines isn’t like other summer camps. It is a chance for young writers to improve and be exposed to new cultures.

“I think that a person doesn’t really understand their own culture until they have a comparison,” Programs Coordinator Kelly Morse said. “Witnessing other people experiencing your culture is actually a way to start thinking, ‘why do we do these things this way?’”

The program is a two week long session at the University of Iowa where aspiring writers from America and internationally have an opportunity to work on their writing skills. The program costs 1,800 dollars.

“We have had students do a bunch of different things. Most of our students do prose, so fiction, short stories and some of them have been working on novels,” Morse said. “We are also starting to get some kids doing flash fiction.

Some of our students also have blogs on the side.”

Between the Lines is a part of the International Writing Program that brings international authors to the U of I for a fall residency.

“We’ve had one Nobel Prize winner.

We bring in some writers from the U.S. but mostly it’s international writers.

We’ve had people who have won all

By Will Lubaroff

Russian and American BTL students on the porch of the IWP’s Shambaugh House Photo courtesy International Writing Program

sorts of prizes.” She said. “We usually try to get writers who are in their mid career and could really benefit from a residency and a trip to the U.S.” The IWP has brought writers from 140 countries to the university. Some

of these writers return in the summer to be instructors for Between the Lines.

Students take a world literatures class where they learn how to look at texts and ‘read like writers.’ They are also taught in a small creative writing workshop where they learn how to effectively critique each other’s work.

“They stay in the dorms,” Morse said.

“It’s like a step up into seeing what college life is like as a young writer.”

For American students there is an online application. Students from Russia or Arabic speaking countries alternate coming every other year. These students have to be able to speak a certain level of English in order to take part in the program.

As a way to allow students to share their culture with each other there is a cinema tech night. Russian students will share a film that they feel represent their culture and American students

will do the same. This is just one of many activities that the program offers to help facilitate cultural exchange.

“One of the activities that is always really popular is that we do an Arabic 101 or a Russian 101. We have the participants be the teachers.” Morse said.

“So the Russian students would be the ones teaching Russian to their peers.”

Morse says that Between the Lines is a way for students to take a step towards becoming a global citizen.

“The media only tells us so much about another culture and often its an exaggerated view of a culture,” Morse said. “So I think that in order to be a global citizen we actually need to meet people of those other cultures. It’s not enough to see their media products which are made to entertain above all.

I also think that a person doesn’t really understand their own culture until they have a comparison.”

Teachers’ safety training is tested

The ICCSD recently underwent safety training, providing a new protocol for responding to dangerous intruder situations. A District teacher recently put these strategies into practice. willlubaroff@thelittlehawk.com

The safety training that teachers in the district have received was recently put to the test. City High student Heather Stanfield stabbed a customer at the Red Pepper Grill on February 18, but was apprehended by a district teacher, who wishes to remain anonymous.

Stanfield’s friends did not claim to know her well. Nonetheless, this shocked them all.

“I heard about it at school the next day. I was really shocked. I didn’t see her doing anything like that,” Nikki Schmelling ‘13 said. “Sometimes she was a bit of a troubled child, but I didn’t think she would do anything

Counselor Greg Yoder will switch to West High, so he has less of a commute. willlubaroff@thelittlehawk.com

University of Iowa instructor Daniel Khalatschi leads a BTL workshop. Photo courtesy The International Writing Program.

By Rachel Gralnek

Yoder to transfer to West High

like this.”

The fact that an educator who underwent the recent safety-training program intervened did raise confidence in the new policy. ALICE, which stands for Alert, Lockdown, Inform, Counter, Evacuate is the new approach that is promoted by police departments across the country and Homeland Security.

“It’s very good news,” Susie Poulton said of the apprehension. “And that’s exactly what we’d like to see happen if someone came into the school and was attacking.”

Bacon, too, supports the new training.

“It is very valuable training that I think has helped a great deal,” Principal John Bacon said. “I think our

teachers are more prepared so that they might respond effectively.”

Nonetheless, some teachers remain skeptical as to their abilities to intervene in a situation.

“To get rid of an armed person, I think you almost have to have the police or someone with military background,” Math Teacher Danelle Knoche said. “They have given us some training on how to try and take down an armed person.”

Another item of discussion is how teachers are notified of intruders.

Currently, this occurs through the intercom.

“We have phones in all the classrooms and teachers carry cell phones around but certainly the intercom is a big part of that,” Bacon said.

Fanta Traore ‘16 supports this new teacher-training, and agrees that some of the previous lockdown strategies were ineffective.

“You’re making yourself an easy target,” Traore states about the strategy of hiding under your desk in response to an armed person in a school.

Knoche expressed her reservations about the possibility of teachers receiving weapons.

“When the conversation turned at one point to ‘why don’t we arm the teachers’ I was like, ‘oh my goodness, no.’” Knoche is against letting teachers have guns because she feels like letting her have, work or own a gun would just be a bad idea. “I see the value of people owning guns, I just do not have the same view.”

Counselor Greg Yoder has announced that he will be leaving City High at the end of this year. Yoder has been a teacher for a total of 16 years and has spent seven of those years at City High. Principal John Bacon shared his positive experience of working with Yoder.

“He has been an invaluable part of our guidance team,” Bacon said.

As a counselor, Yoder has assisted many students with special education services, helped students to reach their goals, and assisted with registration.

“He helps me make sure that I have the classes I need, and works with me to make sure that I have the teachers that will best help me,” Emma Gingrich ‘14 said.

Yoder’s plan is to be a counselor at West High next year so he can have a shorter commute to his job and be more accessible to his family.

“It’s kind of nice as my kids get involved in more and more activities to be a little bit closer to home,” Yoder said.

Yoder has two kids who go to Weber Elementary, and his wife also works on the West side. As he transitions to new school, Yoder will leave with a positive taste of counseling, and of City High.

“I enjoy being a counselor because everyday is different,” Yoder said.

“City High is a remarkable place and it prepares you for whatever you’d like to do or be in the future.”

And Yoder will be missed when he leaves City High.

“The thing I will remember most about Greg is his ability to stay calm and kind and patient in difficult situations,” Bacon said. “That’s what makes a high school counselor great.”

Yoder has mixed emotions about leaving City, but is confident that it’s best for his family.

“I have nothing but positive, wonderful things, [and] memories about City High,” Yoder said.

FOR MORE NEWS COVERAGE GO TO:

www.thelittlehawk.com

A4 NEWS

MARCH 15, 2013

Center for Worker Justice in progress

The Immigrant Voices Project began early in 2012, by surveying 150 immigrants in the community and identifying four main issues. Now, as the CWJ, they provide resources to immigrants in the community.

By Cassie Wassink

cassiewassink@thelittlehawk.com Recently, Marcela Marquez was pulled over by the police for no apparent reason, after leaving her apartment. “The sad thing about this is, ‘why am I getting stopped for this?’”

Marquez wondered in retrospect. “I feel like I was racially profiled because they saw my face.” Marquez is a Latino, who has lived in Iowa City for 10 years.

Now, she is working to change the way that the police force interacts with immigrants in the Iowa City community. This is one facet of the Center for Worker Justice of Eastern Iowa (CWJ). The CWJ began in the Spring of 2012, with a survey distributed to 150 immigrants in the IC community. The results of this survey led then-called Immigrant Voices Project (IVP) to focus on four main issues: law enforcement, transportation, affordable homes, and the workplace.

The CWJ was officially founded in November, 2012, and is now a central point for services and resources relating to the workplace, specifically for immigrants. The CWJ has been active lately, meeting with the mayor, the sheriff, and, most recently, the chief of police.

Misty Rebik, member of the board, described a sense of both happiness with the meeting, as well as frustration(, but also stressed there is much work to do yet). She said that the chief of police stressed the fact that the CWJ needs to see the issues from the police’s point of view, and focus on bringing specific facts to the discussion.

Rebik contested that “facts are important, but it’s also about the way that people feel and the way that police in-

timidate people with their presence and interactions”.

Despite this disagreement, the group is happy to be in contact with the chief of police.

“We actually really need more help from the police chief,” Rebik said.

“We need him to be willing to deal with these issues in a real way.”

Law enforcement has been a main focus lately, but the group has also been addressing issues of busing, introducing municipal IDs and, most importantly, working to create a Center for Worker Justice. This center will be a safe space for people in the community to come and organize around, and will have a service-oriented focus (community organizing oriented while offering some services, like offering English and Spanish classes, spaces for Unions to come and meet, and a connection point for workers to find general resources.

Current projects of the CWJ include focusing on issues within Forest View and Pheasant Ridge neighbor- ABOVE: Members of the CWJ hold up certificates, showing that they have graduated from training and are official members of the hoods, and working to introduce a CWJ. BELOW: Members of the CWJ learn fund-raising tactics at a training session. Photos courtesy of the Center for Worker Justice municipal ID ordinance. The CWJ has helped a lot,” Cachua said. also hopes to have a physical space Beyond this, the Iowa City Federand staff by mid 2013. ation of Labor awarded the Center for As they have worked to make Worker Justice the 2012 Organization progress on these varied fronts, the of the Year award.

CWJ has encountered a number of “It was really exciting; we didn’t challenges. Marquez described some expect it,” Rebik said. “It was surprisof the group’s main challenges. ing and great to have our work no“Many of us are mothers and ticed.” wives, and we have a lot outside of this Ultimately, members of the CWJ work,” Marquez said. “We don’t have summarized their intent by describing a place to meet; our first year people Iowa City as rapidly changing, while volunteered spaces for us to meet.” those enforcing and governing the Throughout these challenges, town are not adapting as quickly. however, the CWJ has experienced “We are progressive in many support from their community. ways,” Marquez said. “Iowa City’s Maria Cachua, CWJ board mem- changing and unfortunately the police ber, expressed gratitude. department’s not changing. How do “All the support that we’ve had, we help police shift their culture in a from the unions and the faith groups way that enables them to do their job?

Local chefs to compete in Interact club to help cooking competition downtown with Project Prom

By Will Barker

willbarker@thelittlehawk.com On March 26 Hotel Vetro will hold its Third Annual “Top Chef Downtown” contest. Chefs from Iowa City’s best restaurants will come together and prepare dishes from their restaurants. These dishes will then be judged by local food experts. Three hundred guests will be admitted and given the opportunity to taste the food and weigh in for the People’s Choice Award.

Tickets may be purchased at the following website.

“We have so many great culinary chefs in our downtown restaurants,” said Betsy Potter, who is in charge of Top Chef Downtown this year.

“We created this to showcase all of our fantastic offerings downtown.

We hope that after the fact people will love what they tasted and come back on the weekends.”

There are 14 entries in this year’s contest. They range from casual restaurants like Short’s Hamburgers to more formal restaurants like The

Linn Street Cafe. The contest is divided into two categories: Culinary Top Chef and Dessert.

Previous winners include Dave Wiesnek of the Motley Cow and Juan Casco of Mondo’s Saloon. Potter urges community members to come find out who wins the title of Top Chef Downtown this year.

“There will be plenty of good food to fill you up,” said Potter.

“There will also be some great entertainment. It should be a really fun time.”

Chefs from Takanami and Linn Street Cafe will compete. Photos by Will Barker

By Innes Hicsasmaz

inneshicsasmaz@thelittlehawk.com Prom, short for promenade, originating from the 19th century debutante balls held for the wealthiest socialites is now a formal dance for high school juniors and seniors.

Many high schoolers today regard prom as one of the most important events during their high school career, but some students don’t have enough money to buy or rent the attire needed. A local group, Project Prom, is serving to solve this issue for students.

“Project Prom is a project that the city is doing through the Recycling Center where they collect prom dresses and tuxes for students,” Interact supervisor Carrie Watson said.

“Any high school student can go, and it’s free.”

The project serves a double purpose: it helps individual citizens without the financial means to pay for the overly expensive costumes, while also helping the community as a whole by giving people another place to put used clothes other than

the trash can.

This is the first year Interact has participated in the project. Interact collected prom supplies after school Thursday, and will send volunteers to the East Side Recycling Center this Saturday.

“We decided that at the high school level we could help contribute at a city level project,” Watson said.

“We have tons of people who have been to prom at high school. I think that some people get a little worried about these things because they’re afraid that they can’t actually afford to go. I think this is a great opportunity to have stuff that’s sitting in closets doing nothing that could absolutely make somebody’s night special.”

Other cities in Iowa have done similar projects, and they have been very successful; Muscatine’s program collected dresses into the triple digits.

“I think sometimes we forget that we can help people here [at City High], and prom is a huge event for high school girls,” Interact Vice President Emma Greimann ‘14 said.

“It’s nice to help them when we can, financially.”

MARCH 15, 2013

WHAT IN THE WORLD?

What in theW RLD?!

YOU SHOULD KNOW WHO BEPPE GRILLO IS.....

He is an Italian actor, comedian, and more recently: politician. He has been involved in politics since 2009 as founder of the Five Star Movement. The party is founded on the claim that politicians are only subordinates of the people and that they should work for the country only for a short time. They should not have criminal records, and should focus on thinking about the problems of the country without any other conflicts of interest. At the 2013 general election the party won 25.55% of the vote for the Chamber of Deputies, catapulting Grillo into a leadership position.

Grillo is often criticized for his lifestyle. In particular, critics blame him for owning a mo-

NOT-SO-SURPRISING NEWS 1. John Kerry selected as Secretary of State 2. Republicans & Democrats still not getting anything done 3. Korea threatens another nuclear attack 4. Adele wins more awards at Grammys and Oscars 5. Taylor Swift goes through a break up... again 6. Switzerland stays out of all World affairs 7. Michelle Obama dresses to impress Oscar night 8. Climate change still a global threat

@nasa Explore the universe and descover our home planet.

Wired

@wired Wired’s official Tiwtter feed with links to the magazine.

Steven Colbert

@stephenathome Personal account for the TV show host and comedian.

BET YOU DIDN’T KNOW President Kennedy was the fastest random speaker in the world with upwards of 350 words per minute.

In the average lifetime, a person will walk the equivalent of 5 times around the equator.

The first person selected as the Time Magazine Man of the Year - Charles Lindbergh in 1927.

STEVE DODGE VS. THE ECONOMY THE ECON TEACHER

*creative commons

MOST-POPULATED CITIES 1. Shanghai (17,836,133 people) 2. Istanbul (13,854,740 people) 3. Karachi (12,991,000 people) 4. Mumbal (12,478,447 people) 5. Tehran (12,223,598 people) 6. Moscow (11,977,988 people) 7. Beijing (11,716,000 people) 8. Sao Paulo (11,376,685 people) 9. Tianjin (11,090,314 people) 10. Guangzhou (11,070,654 people)

REALLY IMPORTANT CHART: PRESTIGE OF AWARD SHOWS

Kids Choice

MTV Awards

SAG Awards

Grammys

THE MARKETPLACE

CATEGORY

Middle-Aged

Age

237

State Champ

Bragging Rights

The 90s

A Cyclone

Past Era

The Gold Standard

Spotting Cell Phones

Talent

The Current Stock Exchange

His Handwriting

Flaw

Recessions

Room 2104

Current Location

Everywhere

The Weight Room

Addiction

Inflation

WINNER: Mr. Dodge

You’ve heard about it on the news, and read about it in the headlines:

WHAT IS ACTUALLY HAPPENING IN NORTH KOREA? In the last three months, North Korea (or Pyonyang), under its young leader Kim Jong Un, has defied the United States and other world powers by testing an intercontinental ballistic missile and testing a third nuclear bomb. Its latest action was a declaration carried through state media that it was cancelling the 60-year armistice that maintains peace on the Korean peninsula. In an effort to combat North Korea’s weapons of mass destruction and ballistic missile programs, the Obama administration issued a series of sanctions Monday. Despite North Korea’s threat of nuclear

strikes on Washington, experts believe the country still lacks the advancement to create the technology to place on a ballistic missile.

But with the South Korean capital of Seoul just 40 miles south of the border and the North’s million-man army, the risks for the South are more acute. Even with the armistice, the United States remains technically at war with the notoriously unpredictable North Koreans, whose leadership has confused successive American administrations. Some 28,500 U.S. troops are stationed in South Korea to deter potential aggression. source: The New York Times

Golden Globes

The Rules

@therules Your daily dose of rules. In no particular oder.

Compare & Contrast

TOP10

Tacky Presentation

NASA

The Lit one-pag tle Hawk’s going o e guide to wh n acros at’s comp iled b s the glob y Ren ata S tewar e. t & Ja son A r

graphics by jason arnold

nold

tor yacht and a Ferrari sports car, both being in contradiction with his well known environmentalist stance. Grillo has proposed that members of the Italian Parliament who have a criminal record should be barred from public office. As Grillo himself has been found guilty of involuntary manslaughter caused by a car accident, his critics say he has no right to represent Italians either. However, Grillo often receives letters of appreciation and support from prominent figures and Nobel Peace Prize winners.

YOU SHOULD FOLLOW THE FOLLOWING:

A5

Oscars

Distinction

SPRING BREAK 2K13

MOST POPULAR DESTINATIONS

FROM THE CAPITOL Obama administration negotiating with House Republicans about sequestor.

Lawmakers urging President Obama to release more specific information on drones The White House officially cuts building tours through the summer.

White House press secretary stated that Pres. Obama is not looking to balance the federal budget but rather to decrease the amount the country borrows each year while fostering economic growth.

The White House recently showed their concerns for North Korea.

Miami Beach, FL

Breckenridge, CO

Cancun, Mexico

OFF THE SHELF

A ONE-SENTENCED BOOK SUMMARY The Notebook

by Nicholas Sparks

Some rich chick and a good-looking poor guy fall in love but can never really be with each other and he builds a house.

A6 AD

NOW OPEN

MARCH 15, 2013

125 S. Dubuque Street

in Downtown Iowa City’s Historic Pedmall

Featuring

premium chocolate fresh caramel apples and delicious frozen yogurt with assorted toppings

SPECIALS WEDNESDAYS: $0.29 oz frozen yogurt Sundays: 16 oz frozen yogurt $3.00

BUY ANY CARAMEL APPLE AND GET ONE PLAIN CARAMEL APPLE FREE EXPIRES 2./2/13 - Not valid with any other

MARCH 15, 2013

Students take advantage of Spring Break 2013

By Will Lubaroff

NEWS

A7

CHS Students petition for Discovery Day

By Claire Noack

willlubaroff@thelittlehawk.com

clairenoack@thelittlehawk.com Spring break is an exciting time for many City High students.

Whether they go on one of the several school sponsored trips, or just go south to escape the cold Iowa weather, it’s good to leave homework and responsibility behind for a week. There are several school sponsored Spring break trips happening, involving foreign language and music.

26 students will be traveling to Spain over Spring break. They leave for Chicago O’Hare at 7:00 in the morning on Thursday, March 14. From there, they fly to Philadelphia, and from there to Madrid.

They will spend a total of two weeks on the trip, returning on Thursday, March 28. They spend five days of the trip with a host family in the Seville area. Each student has already been assigned to their own host family, and has been in contact with Infographic by Braden Offerman-Mims a member of their host family.

I think the most exciting part cathedrals, and see two Broadway will be the family stay,” Christ Ohrt shows,” Mikiel Curtis ‘13 said. “Also, ‘14 said. “Actually, now that I think we get to experience the heaven that about it, I’m most excited for the is New York food and shopping.” food.”

Mikiel, a senior in Chamber There are several music based Choir, is going on the New York spring break trips this year. The ju- trip. nior and senior members of choir “We’re taking a charter bus, have the option of going to New and it’s gonna be an 18 hour drive,” York, while members of the band Curtis said. “And I’m sitting next program will go to Orlando, Flori- to Jason Arnold, so please pray for da. me.”

“We get to perform in these big The band students leave for

their trip on Friday, March 15, and return Thursday, March 21. They will perform in several venues, and spend time in Disney World.

“I’m most excited for Disney World,” Isaac Clough ‘14 said. “Specifically, Space Mountain.”

A total of ten City High seniors will be going on a group trip to Punta Cana, in the Dominican Republic. Mary Ellen Hein, mother of Andrew Hein ‘13, is organizing this year’s senior trip. “I can’t stop

talking about swimming with dolphins and being on the beach,” Olivia Hamilton ‘13 said. “It’s a nice change from Iowa weather.”

The majority of the students will be leaving Sunday, March 17, and returning Friday, March 22.

Ryan Young, Sid Van Der Woude, Nate Goddard, Sam Mrstik, Andrew Hein, Olivia Hamilton, Lauren Coffey, Cecelia DeBoeck, Matilda Kuenster and Erin Weno will all be on the trip.

Every second Monday of October since 1971 Columbus’s discovery of America has been celebrated. However, a petition from City High’s Student Senate could soon change that.

“Discovery Day will just be a lot more inclusive,” Rachel Rinehart, ‘13 said. “We will have a holiday celebrating everyone who has made an important discovery, not just one person.”

Discovery Day will become similar to President’s Day, which changed George Washington’s birthday to celebrate all of the Presidents.

“There have been some really positive responses; students really excited, jumping up and down in class. We’ve had people come up and thank us for what we’re doing,” Rinehart said.

“Which I didn’t expect, but it’s nice.”

However, some students don’t share the same opinion.

“Columbus Day is probably the least important of the holidays I celebrate,” Sophia Schlesinger ‘16 said. “Honestly, I don’t think it’s a big enough issue that it’s something we really need to focus on.”

Lauryn Alderson, ‘14, agrees. “[Columbus Day] is just like Flag Day. It’s just a day someone felt a need to exaggerate.”

Traditionally, the holiday has been celebrated to promote patriotism. The celebrations of the 400th anniversary of his voyage were focused on national loyalty and support for social progress.

Currently, every state except for two celebrates Columbus Day. North Dakota celebrates “Indigenous People’s Day,” as an alternative holiday.

“I think that [the petition] was a way for us to examine why we have specific holidays,” Nathan Hellwig, Student Senate advisor, said. “It shows the function of government and how you can change things.”

The state of Iowa is fairly unique when it comes to Columbus Day, because it isn’t officially celebrated. Instead, the Governor simply declares it as a holiday each year.

“It makes it a lot easier for us,” Rinehart said. The holiday is changed when enough signatures are collected. The governor will then declare the day as Discovery Day. So far, Student Senate has collected around 700 signatures.

The goal is at least 1000, and then representatives will vote on the issue. West High, Clear Creek Amana, and Northwest Junior High have all become involved.

“Everyone kind of agrees that it’s not really a good holiday.

It’s just a matter of deciding to take the time to actually do it,” Rinehart says. “[Discovery Day is for] just taking the time to take that risk and try something new.”

A8NEWS

A9

MARCH 15, 2013

U D E

g n i p e e w is s

Principal Bacon and Superintendent Murley consider effects of NCLB.

THE NATION

by Ellen Carman

ellencarman@thelittlehawk.com

...and bringing City High along with it.

PRESIDENT OBAMA'S proposed six initiatives to improve our schools WHAT IS the initiative all about?

STUDENT OPINION

ella ostedgaard '17 sam rahn '14 michael olesberg '13 jason arnold '13

the republican education platform

RACE TO THE TOP Race to the Top motivated schools to develop creative plans, addressing four key areas of K-12 education reform: improving assessments and adopting more rigorous standards, improving data systems to provide information about student progress, increasing support for educators to become more effective, increasing emphasis and resources for the lowest-performing schools. This initiative has dedicated over $4 billion to 19 states that have created such plans, and the Race to the Top - District Competition is currently motivating change within schools.

SPARKING INNOVATION The administration believes that education is central to equipping the American economy to “advance business growth, encourage new investment and hiring, spark innovation, and promote continued economic growth and prosperity.” Investing at the K-12 level, the White House is working to meet needs to improve schools and “achieve better outcomes for highneed students.”

ENSURING OPPORTUNITY FOR ALL This Administration is focused closing the achievement gap and turning around America’s lowest-performing schools. Secretary Duncan and the President have both called education the civil right issue of our generation.

In February 2011, the Department of Education established the Equity and Excellence Commission — comprised of 27 members from a range of backgrounds — that is tasked with examining disparities in meaningful educational opportunities that give rise to the achievement gap and recommending ways in which federal policies could address such disparities.

MICHAEL: It sounds fine, though I’m not really interested in the federal government spending more money on education. I prefer that to be a state issue as much as possible, though that is not always possible.

SAM: I appreciate that when a state comes up with a plan they think will work, they can then get money for that plan, although I generally think education reform from the federal government is more important than individual states.

MICHAEL: The only thing is that charter schools are probably an additional good option to let people get what kind of education they want.

ELLA: If there’s one thing we can spend our money on, it’s definitely education. It plays into your whole life and career. If we have really good teachers and our students are learning, that will improve our country as a whole.

JASON: It’s not like there’s a really high performing school and right next door there’s a really low performing school.

They’re in different areas mostly based on geographic setting, and the culture.

ELLA: Low-performing schools are a big problem. I don’t know why we have some schools worse than others, but improving those would help us a lot, because all kids would have the same opportunities for education and jobs, and it would decrease poverty.

The Republican platform, detailed by Valerie Strauss in the Washington Post, is organized under five main headers.

The first, Education: A Chance for Every Child, emphasizes accountability and affirming all students, while rejecting detrimental low expectations. It also advocates for greater choice -- of states, districts, schools, parents and students. Education has an enormous impact on the next generation, which is why it has been subject to such great controversy of late, and, the Republicans would say, come out worse for the wear.

The second, Attaining Academic Excellence for All, claims that money is not the issue. Since 1965, $2 trillion has been spent on elementary and secondary education, and the Republicans would contest that this money has not led to substantial improvements

in the education system. Instead of more money, the Republicans would focus on tried and true practices: increasing accountability and academic standards through periodic assessments, addressing development of character and financial literacy, renewing focus on the Constitution and celebrating American history, and allowing freedom for schools to innovate.

The Republicans support many initiatives currently on the table, but advocate for these initiatives to take place at the State level. And they stress the importance of updating technology, as it has come to be an essential tool for learning.

The third point, Consumer Choice in Education, describes the Republicans’ enthusiasm to offer varied options for schooling, ranging anywhere from homeschooling to virtual schools. They believe that this plethora of opportunities is especially important

REDESIGNING AND REFORMING NO CHILD LEFT BEHIND Efforts were made to reform the Elementary and Secondary Education Act, known as No Child Left Behind. Under the Obama Administration’s blueprint, state accountability systems would set high graduation standards, reward high-poverty schools and districts showing significant improvement, and states and resources would continue to devote resources to diminishing the achievement gap between school.

FORTIFYING SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY, ENGINEERING, AND MATH (STEM) EDUCATION The President has worked to improve STEM by addressing two major goals: excellent teachers, who motivate students towards pursuing STEM-related careers; improving undergraduate STEM teaching, with the goal of producing one million additional STEM degrees over the next decade. Additionally, the President proposed the STEM Master Teacher Corps, a group of educators who will, in exchange for their service, receive an additional annual stipend of up to $20,000.

JASON: I think it’s a good idea that we are reforming NCLB, but I wish that we didn’t have to go around and do things in a weird way. I wish Congress would agree so that more people could benefit from the ideologies.

SAM: I like that reforms to NCLB provide impoverished schools with money instead of taking money from schools that aren’t doing well. I still think that NCLB puts too much emphasis on standardized testing and leads to teaching for tests.

MICHAEL: The only concern would be that when they tried to develop excellent teachers, the teachers would conform to what they want as opposed to what’s actually useful. Otherwise, it sounds good.

ELLA: I actually did a STEM thing in 5th or 6th grade and it was awesome; I love science in general. If you have really good teachers then science can be awesome, and students will push to be better.

to students who are enrolled in failing schools, and need another option. Instead of the federal funds being poured into education, the Republicans support block grants and the repealing of many of these federal regulations. The Republicans support the Republican-founded D.C. Opportunity Scholarship Program, and oppose Presidential and Democratic Congressional attempts to shut down this program.

The Republicans recognize the parents’ role in early education, and thus support family literacy programs.

They also hope to replace “family planning” meetings for teens with abstinence education, which promotes abstinence until marriage. Finally, this platform calls for the replacement of the rigid tenure system with a more fluid merit-based system that will attract fresh talent.

The fourth point, Improving Our Nation’s Class-

STRENGTHENING THE TEACHING PROFESSION The Obama Administration recently launched the RESPECT (Recognizing Educational Success, Professional Excellence, and Collaborative Teaching) project, with the hope of starting a discussion among those related to teaching. Obama is now proposing a $5 billion grant to support the states and districts pursuing bold teaching reforms. The Department has also proposed setting aside 25% of Title II funds under No Child Left Behind, to support teachers and programs working to turn around the lowest performing schools.

JASON: I definitely support teacher evaluations, but my biggest problem with all of these initiatives is that states need to be motivated with money, as opposed to reforming for the sake of their students and education.

SAM: Teacher salary based on achievement by students is generally a good idea; however, it’s difficult because often the only way to judge a student’s achievement is standardized testing and I think that once again leads to teaching to the test by teachers.

rooms, briefly calls on State officials to ensure that their public colleges and universities are fostering a free exchange of ideas, rather than indoctrinating students into a Left-leaning set of beliefs.

The fifth point, Addressing Rising College Costs, offers ideas for how to combat the rising cost of higher education, and the unemployment rate following this education. The Republicans suggest new systems of learning, such as expanded community colleges, private training schools, and work-based learning in the private sector. Federal student aid should be phased out in the wake of private aid, and the federal sector should serve only as insurance for these private aids.

Families should also be privy to a greater degree of transparency, detailing completion rates, repayment rates, future earnings, and other factors that may affect their decisions.

Almost every year that current City High students have attended school, they have been impacted by the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001.

While students are not always aware of how their education is affected by the legislation, it has changed the way teachers and administrators in the ICCSD conduct their classrooms.

“One of the things that overall has been mostly positive about NCLB has been the focus on making sure we are using testing data to inform instructional decision making,” Principal John Bacon said. “And we aren’t just using those tests once a year and putting them on the shelf that nobody ever looks at.”

Bacon says that now standardized test are given more attention and analyzed more thoroughly. Department heads can look at individual questions on a test and see what concept the question was intended to test.

They can also compare the results from the students in their school to the results of the entire school district, state, and nation.

“You can use that to determine, what are the areas that we are really doing well and what are the problem areas. Then as a team they can look at how those concepts are being addressed in our curriculum and make changes to try to do it better,” Bacon

“

No one can argue that we want 100% of students to attain proficiency, but that is simply not a realistic goal.

“

N O I CAT

Bacon brings national plans closer to home

-Principal Bacon said. “That just is fundamentally good practice. I think the urgency to want to use the data in a productive way has really become how you do things.”

This is part of No Child Left Behind’s attempt to improve school accountability by using pro-

ficiency goals on standardized test scores to determine whether a school is in need of assistance and what kind of funding it should receive.

“In the past, the District looked at patterns and trends of data rather than specific cut points which is what the proficiency data require,” Superintendent Stephen Murley said.

“Also, in the past, the district focused on the amount of growth that took place from one year to the next.”

This change in the way educators look at standardized test scores should, in theory, improve the quality of student’s education.

“For the most part that has been positive,” Bacon said. “I say for the most part because if you’re not careful that can go too far, where everything you do is being driven to improve those key scores on reading and math, and I worry that sometimes that can come at a price tag of sacrificing other things that are important.”

One negative effect of increased focus on standardized test scores is that the test is not able to test everything that educators need to be teaching. The concern is that teachers will only teach to the test and students will miss out on learning other important concepts.

Another controversial provision of NCLB is that according to the law, all students need to be able to test at their grade level in reading and math by the year 2014.

“You want to aim high and have high expectations and no one can argue that we want 100 percent of students to attain proficiency, but that is simply not a realistic goal,” Bacon said. “I think as a result, NCLB is losing its relevance.”

President Obama is currently reforming many aspects of NCLB and the administration has passed other education initiatives that have given increased funding to schools.

“Given the current status of the bills making their way through the legislature I would argue that adequate and equitable funding should be at the forefront of our discussions,” Bacon said. “Then local control should receive attention. The legislature I would argue that adequate and equitable funding should be at the forefront of our discussions,” Bacon said. “Then local control should receive attention.”

A10

The Little Hawk

OPINION

Staff Editorial:

Arts on Equal Standing

LH

It’s a cliché that arts programs tend to get less attention than athletic programs.

But with the right changes, we can begin to bridge the gap.

Executive Editors

renata stewart, cassie wassink

News Editors

ellen carman, oli peters

Opinion Editors kieran green

A&E Editor jacob potash

Feature Editors

alexandra perez, emma baxter

Sports Editors

ryan young, annika wasson

Design Team

nora holman, jason arnold, emma gier, renata stewart

Photo & Video Editor kiera zapf

Copy Editor lily howard

Online Editors

nat alder, max friedman

Ad Managers

mikiel curtis, nora holman

Staff

malin craig, juliette enloe, olivia hamilton, neil harte, will lubaroff, bradon offerman-mims, daniela perret, gabriel basile, lilly reitz, will barker, mckinley barbouroske, adam bwayo, abigal dickson, sonali durham, rachel gralnek, jamel hudson, elijah jones, emma mcnutt, claire noack, chris ohrt, olivia parrot, gillian reitz, sabrina rodgers, claire rutherford, dominic balestieri-fox, caroline brown, leo doyle, claire goodfellow, innes hicsasmaz, autumn moen, lauren o’brien, isabelle teduits, hailey verdick, chris winegarden

Adviser

jonathan rogers mission statement The Little Hawk, the student newspaper of City High School, aims to inform, educate and entertain readers; to provide an educational opportunity for the students who produce it; and to provide a medium for commercial advertising.

Equity Statements English Version: It is the policy of the Iowa City Community School District not to discriminate on the basis of race, creed, color, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, disability, or socioeconomic status in its educational programs, activities, or employment practices.

If you believe you have (or your child has) been discriminated against or treated unjustly at school, please contact the Equity Director, Ross Wilburn, at 509 S. Dubuque Street, 319-688-1000.

Spanish Version: Declaración de Equidad: Es la política de Iowa City Community School District no descriminar en base a raza, credo, color, género, origen, religión, edad, estado civil, orientación sexual, estado de veterano, incapacidad, =estado socio-económico en sus programas educacionales, actividades, o políticas de empleo.

Si usted piensa que usted o su hijo (a) han sido descriminados o que han sido tratados injustamente en la escuela, por favor comuníquese con el Director de Equidad, Ross Wilburn, 509 S. Dubuque Street, teléfono: 319-688-1000.

art by juliette enloe

In American culture, it has become something of a cliché to say that “high school is one of life’s most influential experiences.” Indeed, when asked about their high school experiences, many adults will immediately be filled with a sense of nostalgia. It is impossible to deny that high school is an immensely important part of adolescence, so naturally there are many strong emotions and sentiments that accompany memories associated with it. These feelings sometimes manifest themselves in a desire to “give back” to the community, often via the donation of money and other forms of financial support. Unfortunately, in the Iowa City community, this support is overwhelmingly skewed in its distribution, with an overwhelming majority going to athletic programs.

In the past few years, for example, it was almost impossible to avoid noticing that the upgrades to the Bates Field stands were largely financed by private money while the school had to use public funds to construct the new arts wing. Now, to be entirely clear, the purpose of this article isn’t to complain about “those damned sports teams sucking up all the funding.” That position betrays a profound ignorance about the way that funding allocations within the ICCSD actually works. Indeed, individual schools have very little power over the way that funding is allocated by the district. However, as stated before, there is quite a lot that can be done by the community to increase support for arts-related programs that wouldn’t

take away funds from the athletics

to this theory, argument if art is not

Do you think that efforts should be made to increase private-based financial support for arts programs?

(

YES:

5

(

the school should enact campaigns to raise awareness

NO:

program. Thus, the question that we here at the Little Hawk find ourselves asking is not “why should athletic programs be receiving so much support?” but rather “why can’t arts and academic programs get the same sort of support?”

Now, to clarify, City High’s administration has been more or less neutral in its allocation of support to non-athletic groups. In newsletters and assemblies, the debate and math squads get attention along with the basketball and volleyball teams. So why is it, then, that there is so much of a difference in donations and attention from the wider Iowa City community? The immediate answer that one may be tempted to give is that “sports provides a spectacle” while arts programs do not. Put simply, the reason that sports receive more public support is because a lot of people like to watch them, and as a result are willing to donate their money and time to aid those activities. According

2

(

YES:

5(

but only if private actors campaign for support

getting enough public support, the reason that arts and academic programs lack support is because there are not many alumni that are interested in getting involved. However, while it may be true that more public support currently exists for sporting activities, this does not necessarily mean that the public is devoid of support for the arts. For every baseballcapped boisterous member of the friday-night football stands, there is surely also a bespectacled alumnus staying at home who would jump at the opportunity to attend a public speaking event or a concert. For every ex-football player there is an ex choir student or orchestral player. In short, these people exist. Judging from the attendance at events like the Dessert Concert and the Large Group Speech show, they seem more than willing to view and support the arts at City High. The problem is most major arts events are fleeting, occurring only in a single day or night, as opposed to

sports events, which normally last for seasons at a time. This can make it difficult for arts programs to build up revenue from performances.

So, if arts and academic programs are equally supported by the district and there is ample interest in the subject, then what is inhibiting a buildup of monetary support? The problem, as it turns out, is one of organization.

Unlike athletic institutions, which have one well-organized “pipeline” of support, arts and academic programs draw funds from an eclectic variety of sources. Music programs have the Music Auxiliary, education has the Academic Booster Club, and debate raises money from its tournament.

However, there is no “overriding” authority to back up arts and academic program with funding and public support. As a result, many programs simply carry on without the funding and attention that they need to survive. Ultimately, complaining about the comparative lack of attention to arts and academic activities is pointless without an institutional foundation with which to provide those advantages. To provide that support, we should build upon the eclectic group of funding mechanisms that exist for arts programs, creating an “arts and education” booster club that will provide arts programs with support and, more importantly, publicity. By increasing the amount of cooperation and dialogue between arts and academic programs, we will ensure that they will continue to have the capacity to grow and flourish.

MARCH 15, 2013

OPINION

District Budget Woes

Wearing, Not Caring

by LILLY REITZ

by OLI PETERS

Every morning, the same things happen. I rifle through the clothing in my closet and think: what drug am I on? Because coming off of little sleep at 7 o’clock in the morning, it’s hard for me to remember why I ever thought it was a good idea to buy a fluffy, oversized green sweater that, when worn, is reminiscent of Sully from Monster’s Inc. I usually sit on my bed and just look at my clothes for a good thirty minutes as horrible memories of freshmen laughing at my outfits flash through my mind, forcing me to settle on a boring pair of blue jeans, a plain shirt, and some black Converse. Then as I’m sprinting out the door, I catch a glimpse of the clothes I’m wearing and realize that not only do I look like a 14 year old boy, but I look sad. I look in the mirror and think, what do these clothes say about me? And if they say “I’m sad... And look like a prepubescent Haley Joel Osment,” then I run back upstairs, throw on some weird outfit and, you know what? I wear that outfit. I wear it hard.

I don’t know if I should be giving fashion advice because that crap can

get freaky, but I love clothes. And as a self-proclaimed clothing-lover, I say wear what you want. If people don’t “get it,” then more power to you for dressing the way you want to.

A few months ago, I waltzed into the City High library wearing my cobalt blue high to low skirt and a black crop top with white feathers on it. I felt awesome about what I was wearing. Then I heard some freshman guy’s crackly, high pitched voice bashing on my skirt. So you know what I did?? I turned on my heel and I scuttled away like a little freak. Looking back on the traumatic incident, I definitely could have at least scared him a little. I mean, I towered over him and probably had more muscle mass than he did. But after the shock of getting made fun of by an honorary member of *NSYNC wore off, I took a good look at my outfit and realized nothing had changed. I still felt awesome!

That’s what clothes do for me; they give me confidence. When I wear something weird to school, there’s always that moment of doubt. What if people judge me? What if this out-

Rock ly h t n o M with Jesus and the Buddha

by KIERAN GREEN

A11

fit is actually really ugly? Why did I think I’d be able to get through a day without someone yelling a lesbian joke at me after I cut my hair like Justin Bieber’s circa 2010? But if you like what you’re wearing (and the way your hair looks), then it shouldn’t matter if anyone else does.

I get why some people don’t like fashion. They say putting that much time and effort into the way you look is vain. I mean, in some ways, it is.

But it’s a means of self expression.

Your body is a blank canvas and the clothes you put on it help define who you are, so why not put time and effort into the way you look?

I follow the runway trends and aspire to own a pair of Christian Louboutin heels one day because it makes me happy. If wearing sweats and a T-shirt every day makes you happy, then do it! For me, fashion is all about wearing what you like and what makes you feel good. Also, if it’s clean, it’s okay to wear the same article of clothing more than once a week. I wear my denim shirt way too often and I will continue to do so. Because I like it.

So Jesus, how ‘bout that Papal Election coming up?

Your average teacher at City High is paid about $60,000 for 180 days of work, 7:45AM to 3:45PM. They aren’t paid overtime for the five hours they spend on a Saturday grading papers, or the hour they spend after school helping struggling students, or coming to school at 7AM to supervise a school club.

Most teachers spend anywhere from five to fifteen hours outside of that 8 hour window working every week.

Teachers aren’t paid overtime, or extra for any of the time they spend working.

Stephen Murley, on the other hand, makes about $194,000 dollars each school year (a standard, acceptable amount for a superintendent) working the same 8 hour shift as all the other teachers in the district. The difference is that for every phone call he makes at dinner-time, or every emails he opens at home, or every school function he attends, he is paid overtime: $134.72 an hour.

If Murley spends the same five to fifteen hours outside of school working each week, like every other teacher in the district, he makes an extra $673.61$2,020.80 on top of his already large salary. N o t only is Murley paid overtime, he also receives a company car and has all of his gas paid for.

When I was informed of this, I got pretty irritated.

Murley is a vital part to our district, and without him, we couldn’t function. That much is true. But when ICCSD is making budget cuts, as they have been in the past few years, why are we cutting teachers, arts funding, money for books, and all the things that are necessary, when there are other things the school district spends money on that don’t improve learning for students that could be cut?

Eh... to be entirely honest it’s pretty anti-climactic for me.

All the popes have seemed so passé since the papacy of Honorius I in 625 CE. Everything has just been so boring ever since the heady days of the Monophysite heresy.

Take for instance Murley’s company car and paid gas. The average person drives about 9,000 miles every year. With gas at about $3.60, ICCSD is spending over $30,000 every year just for Murley to drive around, plus the cost of the car itself. $30,000 can buy hundreds of textbooks, fund several plays or musicals, buy instruments for students, and so many other things that could improve what really matters: the learning of the students.

To put that in perspective: ICCSD doesn’t have enough money to give City High enough Algebra 2 textbooks for all the students in the course, but has enough money to drive Murley wherever he wants to go, whenever he wants to go.

Murley’s basic salary, $194,000, is standard for a superintendent.

That, I have no problem with. But when we’re cutting funding for books and upholding a middle aged man’s gas money, how we’re cutting our budget should be re-evaluated.

Cutting Murley’s “extracurricular” expenses could save the school district upwards of $40,000 every year.

If ICCSD wasn’t struggling as much as they are with their budget, the extra expenses for Murley would be acceptable.

But when we can’t afford textbooks and teachers because we’re paying for someone’s gas and evening phone calls, there’s a problem.

The solution, for me, seems simple. Cut the extracurricular spending on Murley’s side of the deal, fire less teachers, buy more textbooks, and cut fewer programs.

Because if you make $194,000 a year, you can pay for your own gas.

“Cut the extracurricular spending on Murley’s side of the deal, fire less teachers, buy more textbooks, and cut fewer programs.”

...Maybe

You just Wikipedia’d all of that, didn’t

A12 OPINION

MARCH 15, 2013

THUMBS

Freshmen Speak Out

by CHRIS WINEGARDEN

We all know that being a freshman can be difficult. There’s definitely a stereotype that freshmen have. According to the basic cliches, freshmen are young and inexperienced, and are sometimes bullied as a result. However, while it may be true that freshmen still may have a lot to learn, I’d contend that the City High freshman experience is different from the stereotypes. More than anything else, this is demonstrated by the stories of freshmen themselves.

When first arriving at City, transitioning to a new school can be nerve racking, like a huge school where you may never find your class

or people talking behind your back.

“I was expecting to get really lost,” Erin Glenn ‘16 said. “ It’s so much better than I expected and I didn’t get lost.”

Devon Morrison, ‘16, who has gone to multiple schools and feels like City High is a place where freshmen share a close bond.

“Compared to all the other schools I’ve been to or I have friends that go to, all the teachers are more cooperative with you,” Morrison said. “It feels like we are one family.

It doesn’t feel ‘like this is my class’ or ‘this is my teacher’ instead it feels like I am a part of this class and my teacher is actually here to help me,

like they care.”

Already, freshmen hold to a strong sense of community. We have been together since seventh grade, even those who transferred in later, and over the course of that time friendships have been made, broken, and salvaged.

“I really like how most people are really close and stuff, and how there is so many different groups of people you can be friends with.

I think that is really great,” Lauren O’Brien ‘16 said.

However, even though our peers have been a huge part of our lives, one of the best things about high schools has been the positive at-

mosphere that upperclassmen have helped to promote. Because of that atmosphere, freshmen are considered to get involved and familiarized themselves with the school.

Many students like Miles Miller ‘16 choose to tryout for a fall sports in order to help them to adjust.

“I was in football, so I had a lot of seniors and just a bunch of older kids, so that helped me.” Miller said.

The best part of it all is that the answers are just about the same. City High school is a cool, loving place where people feel OK with themselves and who they are as people. To me, it is very reassuring that the future of our school is in good hands.

Snow days for seniors Dollar pizza day Raygun tee-shirts Aesop Rock at the Blue Moose Jennifer Laurence Music that was popular three years ago

More Like Honey Doo Doo Child

4th Ave Spring Show

by MAX FRIEDMAN

Spring Break Shamrock Shakes Vinyl Led Zeppelin records Open hours Overcoming senioritis French Fries Poop Scotcharoos

Drones Snow in March art by oli peters

Fame, what is it good for? Absolutely nothing. Well, that’s not exactly true. Some people deserve to be famous. People that are extremely talented at what they do.

Like Justin Timberlake for example, that guy is really freaking good at singing; I’m being serious here too.

Even though I’m not an avid listener of the J-Timbz, I can appreciate his talent whenever I hear it in passing. Or Leonardo Dicaprio, to use another popular example. He didn’t get to where he is now by fooling around; dude can act the pants off of an entire audience. He deserves the legendary status that he holds in Hollywood right now, and all of the things that come with being that famous. People that are really good at what they do get famous for it, and they deserve it too. Now, take that for granted (just like you do with

everything else you stinkers) and listen up.

As our society continues to develop, more and more talented people come to light. People with talents ranging from sword-swallowing to playing the drums. However, whether we like it or not, a slew of very untalented people also get famous. That’s the part that really grinds my gears, the part that makes me want to projectile vomit more than usual. Like freaking Honey Boo Boo Child. I am fairly certain that you’ve heard of this little menace because well, she got really famous, really fast. She was entered into a beauty pageant (for some godforsaken reason) and the media quickly picked up on her ridiculous antics. The seven-year-old uttered the words “A dollar makes me holler, Honey Boo Boo,” and was

thrust into stardom. Her reality series makes $40,000 a season, which I find so incredibly stupid.

There is also something to be said about how easily entertained our culture is, but that’s a different thing. Oh, and also the fact that a girl that young is being praised for saying such outlandish and inappropriate things. If I said things like that when I was seven, my Jewish mother would only give me two helpings of lasagna instead of three. But enough about my emotional scarring, back to important stuff. We as a society are putting our praise in the wrong place. The money that Honey Boo Boo makes in one season is equal to a year’s tuition at Harvard University. I hope your jaw dropped when you read that, cause I pooped my pants like four times when I first did the math.

To top it all off, there are tons of talented people out there that aren’t famous and probably never will never be. That doesn’t exactly seem fair but then again, a lot of things in life aren’t. The important part is where we come in. If we continue supporting and showing interest in this stupid lack-of-talent, then people like Honey Boo Boo will continue to surface. However, if we turn a cold shoulder and focus on more important things, maybe things would change. If we appreciated a higher caliber of talent, our society would be better off. The arts scene would flourish, a 21st-century renaissance of sorts. It’s just an idea, but it has some merit. For now, we can all keep following the tragic events of “Dance Moms,” and listening to thirteen-year-olds “sing” about their favorite day of the week.

North Korea Seven hour track meets Good teachers retiring Harlem shake Seeing cute girls McDonald’s and knowing you’ll never see them again... :’( Monophysitism

Waiting for Spring Break Back pains Not seeing the sun for days at a time Spray tans Demons

MACRH 15, 2013

AD

A13

Â

A

Independent Films d n a tive a n lter

Student Admission: $3 Non-Students: $7 bijou.uiowa.edu

A14

Bringle prepares for musical

By Lilly Reitz

The Little Hawk

ARTS&ENTERTAINMENT

Show choir spring show

City High’s show choir recently brought to a close their most successful season ever with their annual spring show, the choir’s penultimate performance of the season.

lillyreitz@thelittlehawk.com Cassidy Bringle ‘14 didn’t even think to look at the list of lead roles when the cast list for Once Upon a Mattress came out. She just glanced at the chorus list. When she didn’t see her name, her heart sank. But then she looked up. She was Princess Winnifred, the lead.

“I was so excited,” Bringle said.

“The first thing I did was call my mom.”

Princess Winnifred is different than any part Bringle has played before.

“She’s full of so much energy. She’s a goofy, crazy character,” Bringle said. “When I first come on stage, I’m soaking wet and I burst into this big song called ‘Shy’. But Winnifred is definitely not shy!”

Once Upon a Mattress is the 1959 musical adaptation of the fairy tale The Princess and the Pea, whose story revolves around a prince (Jacob Walterhouse ‘14) whose mother (Elena Foster ‘14) has outlawed marriage until her son ties the knot. When he chooses the mysterious Princess Winnifred, though, the queen is horrified and schemes against her.

Bringle’s love for the stage started when she was five years old. Bringle joined Iowa City’s youth acting group Young Footliters when she was in elementary school, and it was her first experience in the limelight. She participated in one or two productions each year from age five till junior high.

When Bringle arrived at City High, she was intimidated by all the student talent. She fit in almost immediately, scoring a part in the chorus for How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying her freshman year.

“At first when I came to City, theatre was really intimidating,” Bringle said, “But theatre people are the best people!”

Bringle has not only been performing as an actress for the past eleven year – she has also been singing for the past eight years, starting her singing career in third grade with Nancy McFarland’s choir. Bringle continued choir well into junior high and was a member of Opus Honor Choir for two years.

“I’ve always tried to be as involved as I could with choir,” Bringle said.

She has participated in Select Women’s Choir and show choir since coming to City in the fall of 2010.

Having spent so much of the last eleven years on stage has certainly made an impact on Bringle’s everyday life.

“It definitely has changed me as a person. My speaking skills, my ability to be myself, especially when I started to get older. It was an outlet,” Bringle said.

Bringle is looking forward to everyone coming to Once.

“Some people don’t really go to plays and then when they do, they come out saying ‘That was so cool!

When’s the next one?’” Bringle said.

“I think Once Upon a Mattress is going to be one of those kinds of shows.”

ABOVE: Preformers strike final pose in their closing number “Cut a Rug.”

By Lilly Reitz lillyreitz@thelittlehawk.com From acapella Coldplay covers, to Gangnam-style dancing dads, to goodbyes for the graduating class of 2013, the 33rd annual 4th Avenue spring show had people laughing, crying, and feeling inspired.

With only one competition to go after the annual home performance, the Spring Show brought a ceremo-

nial close to the winningest competition season in the all of the years of 4th Ave history.

Some highlights from the season included David Maize ‘13 being awarded ‘Best Male Soloist,’ Sam Rahn ‘14 picking up ‘Best Instrumentalist,’ and multiple ‘Grand Champions’ recognitions.

The team also received awards recognizing ‘Best Choreography’ twice, ‘Best Band,’ and ‘Best Vocals.’ They

finished as first runner-up twice.

Most impressively, for winning ‘Grand Champion’ at the Jefferson competition, the choir was given the physically largest trophy awarded in the Midwest. The trophy clocks in at six feet and six inches tall.

With their multiple wins, 4th Avenue Jazz Company has finished “cutting a rug” for the 2012-13 school year and is already making preparations for next season.

FOR MORE A&E COVERAGE GO TO:

www.thelittlehawk.com

Hosts Jason Arnold ‘13 and Sam Buatti ‘13 introduce a special act.

ABOVE: Michael Gloer ‘13 and David Maize ‘13 preform “Sound of Silence.”

ABOVE: City Lights members preform Michael Jackson’s “Bad.”

photos by Emma McNutt

MARCH 15, 2013

A&E

Jazz musicians earn top honors

By Jacob Potash

jacobpotash@thelittlehawk.com

A few City High parents probably feel that their nagging has been vindicated: Hank Welter ‘14, who plays tenor saxophone, and Kara Hartley ‘13, a pianist, were named to Iowa’s all-state jazz band two weeks ago – the highest honor a high school jazz musician can be awarded.

Since the band only has spots for two tenor saxophonists and one pianist, the honor recognizes Hartley as the state’s top jazz pianist and Welter as one of the state’s top two tenor saxophonists. (The band is made up of approximately sixteen musicians in total.)

In December, state jazz band hopefuls were sent an étude written for the occasion by Christopher Merz, University of Northern Iowa’s Director of Jazz Studies.

Students were required to record a rendition of the étude as well as an improvisational piece of their choice. Welter chose Pent-Up House by Sonny Rollins. Hartley selected Thelonious Monk’s jazz standard Blue Monk.

“The second piece is fun,” said Hartley, “because we get some other people from jazz ensemble, and they back us up.”

City High musicians waited till February to give their recordings to Ryan Arp, City High Band Director, who handled the submissions. Arp estimates that 150 to 200 students across the state sent in tapes.

Welter did not find out about his selection in the most traditional way: walking down the hallway before choir class, music secretary Mary Mahaffa told him she needed to see him and Hartley for a picture. When he asked the reason, all she knew was that it was “for some honor band thing.”

“It took me a while to figure it out,”

BEST OF THE WEB www.thelittlehawk.com

Welter said, “but then it just snapped in my head. I was like, I got into all state!’”

The day after the results were officially posted, though, Arp announced the news to the band members, who gave the pair a long round of applause.

Both musicians have a deep background in jazz music. Hartley began taking piano lessons in third grade and narrowed her focus to jazz in her freshman year. Welter, meanwhile, began playing saxophone in fifth grade and has specialized in jazz since seventh grade. Both have played since their sophomore year in Jazz Ensemble, City High’s top band.

In May, members of the state jazz band will make their way to Des Moines for an overnight trip. There they will practice together for their one and only concert. As for the future of the program, Arp is confident that City will play an important role.

“City High has had a good history of musicians in the all-state jazz band,” Arp said. “Maybe not so much recently but I believe we’re going to see City High be consistently placing students in the band.”

1

VIDEO 4th Ave Final Show and Preparations for Grand Championship: reporter Elijah Jones interviews members of 4th Ave about preparation, trepidation and making City High history in a video retrospective created mere days before their win at Cedar Rapids Jefferson. Marching band, colorguard, and student section.

PODCASTS

3

Sounds of the City Episode 8 – Will Lubaroff plays a cover of “Where Is My Mind”, originally by The Pixies. In this episode, guitarist Lubaroff is joined by Little Hawk reporter Gabe Basile, on vocals.

Dating at City High: A Valentines Day Special – News Editor and Online Reporter Oli Peters interviews five City High couples, who talk romance and good times with their significant others. Peters accompanies this video with a feature on a few of these couples, going more in depth on the origins of some of their relationships.

Hawk Talks Episode 14: Oscar Special – Nat Alder, Gabe Basile and Max Friedman are joined by special guest Oli Peters and discuss the 2013 Oscars, including their favorites and who/what they thought would win.

Kara Hartley ‘13 and Hank Welter ‘14 were chosen to participate in the Iowa All State Jazz band.

compiled by Nat Alder

1550 S First Ave, Iowa City

www.tspaIowaCity.com

NoW oFFeriNg $10 HigHligHt FederAl FiNANCiAl Aid Present thIs ad to reCeIve a

All services performed by supervised students.

Expires 4/30/13 Code CHS

appointments 319.248.2958 $2 oFF any service with student id For more information about our graduation rates, the median loan debt of students who completed the program and other important information visit www.tspaiowacity.com

2

VIDEO

PODCASTS

For tuiton and living expenses to students who qualify.

A15

Present thIs ad to reCeIve a

$10 Color

All services performed by supervised students.

Expires 4/30/13 Code CHS

Present thIs ad to reCeIve a

$10 PediCure

All services performed by supervised students.

Expires 4/30/13 Code CHS LIMIT ONE COUPON PER VISIT

4

A16 A&E

MARCH 15, 2013

Rapper, comic coming to town

Restaurant Review

Crêpes de Luxe

By Jacob Potash jacobpotash@thelittlehawk.com

Kendrick Lamar

By Daniela Perret danielaperret@thelittlehawk.com Growing up, my dad would always make me crêpes, and as I grew up, so did my appetite for them. So, trudging my way through the snow on a cold February afternoon, towards the Iowa City Public Library downtown, I could not help but be drawn in by the warm orange tones shining through the windows of Crêpes De Luxe Café.

As I walked through the door I knew that delaying the return of my library books was the right choice. I couldn’t help but be engulfed by the atmosphere of this French café.

Parisian-decorated walls are lined with high-top tables and a booth in one corner, giving the room an intimate, cozy feeling. I began scanning through the menu, which offers choices ranging from the sweet Crépe du Chef to the savory Le Matin. I de-

cided to keep it simple and order the Valentin, made up of strawberries and Nutella. From my seat I watched the delicate care with which Chef Hicham Chehouani began crafting the crêpe behind the counter.

He lightly poured the crêpe mix onto the grill and slowly spread the mixture across the circular surface.

Then he added nutella to the cooking crêpe and slowly placed strawberries throughout the dish. He closed up the crêpe, flipped it onto a waiting plate, and carefully decorated it with a strawberry sauce and powdered sugar. Soon I was digging into the crêpe and falling in love. It was absolutely delicious, and if given the chance I would’ve ordered ten more. It was fruity and sweet, in the perfect balance. But not only was the food one of the greatest tasting things I’ve ever had – the service was also first rate.

Both the chef and host were friendly

and inviting. The prices of the crêpes are reasonable, ranging from $5.25 to $9.25, and you won’t leave hungry either. Most dishes fill their platters and are arranged and garnished attractively.

Located on College Street, this restaurant is a good choice for an upscale lunch or dessert. Stop by sometime – and bon appétit!

FOR MORE A&E COVERAGE GO TO:

www.thelittlehawk.com

HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS ONLY!

TWO WEEKS

UNLIMITED

TANNING

19

95

$

*

30 DAYS UNLIMITED TANNING

40

$

*

& TANNING LOTION ($69 VALUE)

*Must present valid high school student I.D. card. Not valid with any other offer. 14 & 15 years of age must have parental consent. See store for details. Expires 10/15/12

115 Hwy 1 West, Iowa City • 338-0810 585 Hwy 965 S. Suite #C, North Liberty • 626-3040

No Appointment Tanning • Open 7 Days a Week www.ashleylynnstanning.com

Kendrick Lamar, the 25year old rapper who has been called hip hop’s savior, rose rapidly through the Internet/ indie scene last year to achieve some mainstream commercial success and immense critical acclaim.

His major label debut, good kid, m.A.A.d city, tells the story of his

childhood in Compton, California, and has been praised for its cohesion and precision in an age of oneliners and non-sequiturs. The enormous wave of hype surrounding him crested recently when he was named by MTV as the “#1 Hottest MC in the Game.” Can he back up the title? His show at the Iowa Memorial Union on Monday, April 1, is sold out, but he’s an artist follow nonetheless.

Tracy Morgan B e st - k now n for his starring role on NBC’s celebrated comedy “30 Rock,” Tracy Morgan will bring his talents to The Englert on Saturday, March 16, in an event that is billed as “intended for mature audiences only.” The comedian-actor has kept up a busy schedule in recent years, lending his voice to many animated flicks and feature films – most of them ill-received –

in addition to Tina Fey’s “30 Rock.”

He has also stayed in the headlines for his health problems, his DUIs, and for some offensive comments about homosexuality and mentally handicapped kids; with ticket prices in the $50-$60 range, this one might not be worth the price of admission.

Instead, rent some old episodes of Saturday Night Live, where he was a cast member from to 1996 to 2003, pop some popcorn, and kick back at home!

The Little Hawk

March 15th, 2013

SPORTS

Girls look to continue success

After placing sixth at last year’s state meet, the Little Hawk girls’ track and field team is working to push themselves out of their comfort zones, improve daily, and keep strong team unity.

By Annika Wasson

annikawasson@thelittlehawk.com

ABOVE: Olivia Parrott ‘16 runs the 4 by 400 meter relay at the first indoor meet of the year at the University of Iowa. photo by Annika Wasson.

Cheers and smiles radiate from the trackside as each member of the girls track team crosses the finish line. It’s this unity the Little Hawk coaches and athletes alike strive for.

“Our goals, as coaches, for the season are to be sure that every girl feel as much a part of the team as possible no matter what their role,” head coach Joe Graf said. “We encourage them to get better every practice and every meet by training hard and racing hard.”

The 2013 girls track team is made up of nearly 70 members. Despite having a team this large, Graf says the team unity is strong. Leading this charge in positive attitude are captains Aliyah Gustafson ‘13, Mickey Hansche ‘13, Ellen Carman ‘14, Claire Crew ‘13, and Erin Danielson ‘13.

The Little Hawks’ indoor season is just underway. In their first meet of the season the team placed sixth overall, but showed strength in the distance relays by finishing first in the 4 by 800 with a time of 10:17.13 and the 4 by 400 in 4:15.94. At the Washington Demon Indoor meet, Carman placed fourth in the 1500 with a time of 4:57.58 and the 4 by 400 and 4 by 800 teams placed sixth.

“The indoor meet portion of the season can be a bit hectic,” Graf said.

“With that said the first few indoor meets have gone very well and we have been pleased with the efforts

of the girls competing against other schools on the track whether it be running, jumping, or throwing.”

When the outdoor season begins for the Little Hawks on March 26, Graf says the team hopes to overcome some early obstacles presented to them.

“A challenge that was introduced to the girls from the beginning of the season is being able to compete and train outside their comfort zone, and being comfortable doing so.”

Using this challenge as the season progresses, the team hopes to ultimately make it to the state meet and have the chance to demonstrate the result of their hard work through individual or team championships. In the past two years City finished first in 2011 and sixth in 2012.

“It’d be nice to have us all be state champions,” Gustafson said. “Right now we just need everyone to give 100 percent all the time.”

To get there, Graf says the team will work on “technique, form, endurance, speed, and agility” daily in practice. He also wants to push his team to make improvements every time their feet hit the track.

“We need to not be satisfied with where we are at as a team, or individually. We need to stay eager to improve and hungry to compete. It has been amazing to see the high energy level of the team at practices and meets that many of them put forth. I think the mixture of all the girls together will lead to many great accomplishments at all levels of our program.”

Boys’ track prepares for the new season

By Daniela Perret

danielaperret@thelittlehawk.com

With a combination of leadership, preparation and a positive mental attitude, led by seniors Mohamed Traore ‘13, Michael Gloer ‘13, and Matt Lee ‘13, the City High boys track and field team is poised on placing in the top three at this year’s state meet.

“I’m really excited for the upcoming season,” head coach Tom Carey said.

“The team has been working hard and I think we really have a chance to do some great things this season.”

The Little Hawks placed fifth at last year’s state meet, just half a point behind fourth place and four points out of Des Moines Dowling’s third place. Ideally the team would like to place in the top five but are determined on making it into the top three.

“We’re looking good so far,” Bryson Runge ‘15 said. “I think we have a good enough team to win state. Everyone just needs to have a positive mental attitude and work hard and do what they can as an individual to make the team better.”

With preparation being a key factor to this year’s season, many members of the team began training months in advance.

“We worked hard in the preseason,” Matt Lamarch ‘13 said. “We worked harder than we did last year for sure and I think we’re ready to go.”

The team is also working on the aspects of competing that they have power over.

“The important thing is is that every guy focuses on what he can control at every meet. And if they do that, then the pieces and points will take care of themselves,” Carey said. “You can’t control the competition, but you can control your preparation, your attitude, effort, your competitiveness.”

Key opponents for the team this year will include Iowa City West High, Linn Mar, and West Des Moines Dowling. But although these teams will present competition to the Little Hawks, team members say that they themselves are the biggest competition.

“I think our toughest competition right now is ourselves,” Traore said. “If we can pull ourselves together and see that we really do have a lot of talent, we still have a pretty strong core group of people, we have really good relays coming in and with all the hard work put in over the winter we could really do some damage at the state level.”

Some standouts for the team this season have included Brook Price ‘13, Ryan Dorman ‘14, Kole Butler ‘14, Chris Ohrt ‘14, Jake Leohr ‘14, Traore and Runge. The team’s next meet will be today at the Central Invite in Pella.

“The team isn’t settling for just being good, we want to be great,” Traore said.

“I hope to be a team that people don’t think lightly of. A team where when we walk into a meet everyone just expects us to do well. That when we step to the line, other teams are afraid of us. And I think that we definitely have the potential to be that type of team this year.”

ABOVE: Ryan Dorman ‘14 (left) and Mohammed Traore ‘13 (right) finish strong at their first indoor meet of the year at the University of Iowa. photo by Kierra Zapff.

B1 Boys’ basketball falls in quarter finals With their season completed, the Little Hawks look forward to what lies ahead.

By Annika Wasson

annikawasson@thelittlehawk.com

In a season labeled by the coaching staff as a “rebuilding year,” the boys basketball team finished their 2012-13 schedule with a record of 8-14. The Little Hawks are now looking forward to next year, where they hope to build on successes this season and continue to make improvements on their weaknesses.

“Overall, I was very pleased with the season and the work ethic the players had throughout the season,” head coach Don Showalter said. “We will certainly build on our work ethic and improve on our strength to make us a better shooting and rebounding team.”

The team’s substate quarter final game against Prairie was a rematch from a previous contest in which the Little Hawks prevailed. The outcome the second time was not quite as good however, as City fell to Prairie, 39-68.

Leading scorers for the Little Hawks were Lonnie Chester ‘13 and LaDarius Taylor ‘14, each with 10 points. Cameron Spears ‘13 added six along with four rebounds, and Tony Perry ‘13 had six rebounds.

Although the team’s season did not end as they’d hoped, Showalter says the Little Hawks have many games to look back on and be proud of.

“We had some signature wins in a double overtime game versus Prairie, the last regular season game win versus Xavier and the close game versus Dubuque Senior.”

Despite the Little Hawk’s issues with rebounding and making key shots, Showalter says the team did make many improvements in their approach to the technical and mental aspects of their game.

“I think we improved on our mental toughness during the year, and playing together as a team with good chemistry.”

Along with team successes, multiple athletes earned postseason awards for their efforts this season.

Chester was named to first team all conference in the Mississippi Division, while Andrew Hein ‘13 and Perry were awarded honorable mention.

Hein and Mohamad Rouabhi ‘13 also received all-academic honors.

Above all this season Showalter says he is most proud of the way his team showed dedication to the game and to the City program and hopes to build on this for next year and the years to come. “[Our best quality] was the ability to come every day with a great work ethic no matter if we won or lost the game the night before,” he said.

“We will certainly build on our work ethic.”

B2 SPORTS

MARCH 15, 2013

Girls’ basketball season cut short After making it to the substate finals, and being ranked the No. 1 team in the state in class 5A, the Little Hawk girls basketball team fails to earn a bid to the state tournament.

By Ryan Young

ryanyoung@thelittlehawk.com After a promising regular season, and a trip to the substate finals, The Little Hawk girls basketball team failed to reach the state tournament this winter.

The girls fell short to No. 10 Iowa City West High in the regional finals 42-55. Ally Disterhof carried the Women of Troy to victory, scoring 21 points in the second half alone. She finished the game with 29.

“I’m proud of all of the things that we accomplished this year,” Mickey Hansche ‘13 said. “Although we didn’t finish the way we wanted to, there were still a lot of positive things that happened.”

City defeated west high twice in the regular season, and was the top ranked team in class 5A heading into the postseason. But the Women of Troy prevailed in the finals.

“The hardest part about this season was that we came so close, but couldn’t pull through in the end,”Hansche said. “I’m so proud of all the girls on our team.”

City finished the year with a final record of 20-3, and went on a 13 game win streak during the season.

The team was led by two returning seniors - Hansche and post player Aliyah Gustafson ‘13 - along with forward Haley Lorenzen ‘14 and Kiera Washpun. All four were returning members this year, which brought a lot of experience to the team. Shooting Guard Courtney Joens ‘16 completed the starting lineup.

Hansche, a 4 year starter for The Little Hawks, averaged 14.9 points per game this year, and shot 51 percent from the field. She scored her 1000th point earlier this season, and was selected to play in the Eastern Iowa High School All Star game later this spring. Hansche was also nominated for the McDonald’s High

ABOVE: Kiera Washpun ‘14 drives to the basket during the substate final game against Iowa City West High. photo by Ryan Young.

School All-American game, but was not selected to participate in the game. She is currently undecided on where she will play basketball in college, but is beginning to narrow her list down.

Lorenzen, was also a powerhouse for City in the post this season. Lorenzen, who committed to The University of Florida, averaged 18.7 points per game, and nearly 10 rebounds per game this season. She was also named to the first team all state.

“Losing in the first round of state

last year really motivated me to improve over the summer,” Lorenzen said. “My teammates and coaches really pushed me, and that helped a lot.”

City loses 2 girls from the starting lineup next year, but they are working to fill Hansche’s and Gustafson’s shoes.

“Im really looking forward to next season,” Lorenzen said. “We’re going to have a great group of girls who are ready to work and ready to win.”

ABOVE: Mickey Hansche ‘13 reacts to a play under the basket. photo by Ryan Young.

OPINION

Sports and sexual orientation

By Jamel Hudson

jamelhudson@thelittlehawk.com At the 2013 NFL draft combine ESPN and players reported that team scouts were asking prospects about their sexual orientation and their relationship statuses during the interview process. This is not only wrong on so many levels, but it is also against the law. This type of question could be used as discrimination in a job interview just like asking about one’s religious and political views or even asking one’s age.

The fact that these scouts are even trying to insinuate that someones sexaul preference affects their ability to play football is totally absurd and kind of baffling. If that were true, Olympic gold medalist Matthew Mitcham should not have won his Gold medal back in 2008 for diving

nor should he have won Male Diver of the year in 2012 because he’s gay.

This is absolutely preposterous.

“I don’t think one’s sexual orientation affects how he plays on the field,” De’Arius Salibi said. “That is their personal life and has nothing to do with their on field abilities.”

You first have to realize that there’s a thin line between personal and work related. Correct me if I’m wrong, but I don’t believe someone’s sexaul orientation has anything to do with what they do on the gridiron, which is his job and not his personal life. Tight End Nick Kasa of the University of Colorado said he was asked by scouts if he was gay and if he was in a relationship or was married.

The NFL investigation will first have to figure out if those questions were asked to every prospect or just certain players, and also what teams

were asking this. Some may argue that these questions are asked to see if they could handle pressure and that’s fair game. However, if asking these questions is to determine whether or not to draft them is far from allowable and unlawful.

“I think this is totally wrong.

There are other ways and methods you take to see if a guy can handle pressure. You should know not to ask these sorts of questions,” head football coach Dan Sabers said. “This is why I coach high school sports, because I don’t want to deal with all of this.”

Notre Dame Linebacker and Heisman Trophy runner-up Manti Te’o also participated in the combine. He was asked questions similar to this on the Katie Couric show, and it is believed that due to his whole imaginary girlfriend scandal is the

reasoning why these questions are being asked. Couric asked if he was gay. “No. Far from it. Far from it,” Te’o responded.

“I think the whole Manti Te’o situation just brought everything to the light, and I think it’s the NFL trying to cover up a future image issue with it’s lack of tolerance toward homosexaulality,” former swim Coach and City High Teacher John Burkle said.

This will be an ongoing problem for a long time until someone is willing to come out and say that they’re homosexual, and it could either go really well or really bad. Some could graciously embrace one to come out and say this or could steer away from them because its different and the team has an image they feel they have to live up to and having a homosexual on the team interferes with that despite what he’s capable of do-

ing.

“When you’re good you’re good.”

Sasha Frauenholz 14’ said. “Your sexual orientation should not have an influence on what people think of you and does not change what you can do on the field.”

This is fairly similar to the major league back in the 1940’s when Jackie Robinson became the first African American to join. It’s hard trying to keep someone out of a sport when they’re good. So America is just going to have to be accepting of the fact that at some point there could possibly be a homosexaul in the NFL someday. There will be a lot of controversy behind it at first, but sooner or later people would adapt to the situation just like they have done in the past with minorities joining major sport leagues.

MARCH 15, 2013

SPORTS

B3

Tennis starts off new seasons

The boys’ and girls’ tennis teams are preparing for their 2013 seasons. The teams will get to play at the newly renovated tennis courts at City High and look to make improvements from last year.

By Malin Craig & Lily Howard

malincraig@thelittlehawk.com lilyhoward@thelittlehawk.com

Boys’ Tennis The high school tennis season is upon us, and the Little Hawk squad is getting ready to attack this season.

Although the Little Hawks have struggled in recent years, they are prepared to put together a solid season.

“A lot of people think this is going to be a rebuilding year for City High Tennis,” Mohamed Rouabhi ‘13 said. “We’re not going into it with that mind-set, every meet we play in, we plan to win.”

Rouabhi, a four year tennis player, is not backing down to the competition. There is talent on the City High team, with Andrew Brown ‘13 and Holden Feagler ‘14 being some of the top players this year.

“We feel like we have guys that can compete with most teams,” Rouabhi said.

Confidence is a trait that the team does not lack. This attitude will hopefully be brought in the Little Hawks first meet, at Cedar Rapids Xavier on April 2. Rouabhi and Jordan Ingram ‘13 hope to be a fearsome doubles tandem as they have been building chemistry on the court in JV matches for the past three years. The team is also getting a lot of new players this year on the varsity and JV teams.

“New additions to the varsity team will be the key to success for this year’s group,” said Rouabhi.

The Little Hawks first home meet is April 9 against Dubuque Senior and

ABOVE: Abbey Vitosh ‘13 returns a serve during a match last season. photo by Ryan Young

the competition will be fierce.

Girls’ Tennis

Last Monday, the girls’ tennis team kicked off their 2013 season. After a disappointing season last year, the girls are looking for redemption this

year.

“We’re focused on getting better every day,” Abbey Vitosh ‘13 said. “We want to be the first girls team to go to state from City.”

Vitosh, the lone senior, Beckett Finley ‘15, and Eve Small ‘15 are the

only players on the varsity team who go to City High. The remaining players go to Regina and West Branch. Small is currently ranked 2nd of all time of girls’ tennis players from City High. She is only behind Susanna Howard ‘10.

“We have a lot of experience com-

ing back, and that helps a lot,” Vitosh said. “I’m really excited to see what we can do this year.”

The Little Hawks will host Cedar Rapids Xavier in their first home meet on April 2nd. The meet starts at 4pm on the newly renovated City High courts.

B4 SPORTS

MARCH 15, 2013

Scholz: A life of soccer

Growing up with the game, and traveling to Mexico for volunteer projects, Corbin Scholz ‘13 has been playing soccer for most of her life. To Scholz, soccer is more than just a game.

MARCH 15, 2013

SPORTS

B5

Teams battle for Rec League championship

The final four teams prepare to face off in the Rec League semi-final games on Monday, March 25th.

By Sabrina Rodgers

sabrinarodgers@thelittlehawk.com

ABOVE: Corbin Scholz ‘13 poses on the new turf field at City High School. Scholz, a 4 year member of the soccer team, prepares to kick off her senior soccer season this week. photo by Ryan Young.

By Olivia Hamilton

oliviahamilton@thelittlehawk.com Sitting with her legs crossed and notes tightly gripped in her hand, Corbin Scholz ‘13 taps and moves her feet as if she is on the field, trying to recall the beginning of her soccer career.

“Well, before I started I’d always thought soccer boys were cute,” laughed Scholz. “But it started out with me just looking for a new hobby to entertain myself. Then it quickly became a crucial part of my life that has opened my life up to

new people and experiences.”

What started as Scholz ceaselessly kicking a soccer ball in her yard one summer turned into devoted summers on the fields at Notre Dame and Iowa State’s camps, as well as five years on various clubs and teams. Along with playing on Iowa City Alliance, Premier Soccer Club, and guest playing for Cedar Valley Soccer Club, Scholz has been a 4 year member of the City High Varsity girl’s soccer team.

Despite her efforts, Scholz’s start to playing for City High did not happen the way she had wished

in the beginning. At the beginning of her freshman year she was placed on the junior varsity team. After a short time, she was moved up to varsity.

“I mean it was frustrating that I wasn’t put on varsity at first,” Scholz said. “Luckily the coach quickly saw that I had potential and was good enough for varsity.”

With the accomplishment of being moved up to varsity as a freshman, through hard work also came a mixture of emotions for Scholz.

“I was so grateful and excited about being placed on varsity,”

ABOVE: Corbin Scholz ‘13 traveled to Xicotepec, Mexico last year for a service project. During her trip, she connected with the local children by playing soccer. photo courtesy of Corbin Scholz.

Scholz said. “But it was also nerveracking. I felt so intimidated to be on a team with not only fellow freshmen but sophomores, juniors, and seniors too.”

This past season Scholz once again proved her skill set and potential. Scholz scored seven goals to make her the top scorer for City High. Scholz was also named coMVP in the 2012 season.

“Since I started later than everyone else my age I had to put in extra hours and work twice as hard,” Scholz said. “I have learned if you constantly push your limits and strive to get better each day greatness will fall upon you.”

Aside from Scholz’s various accomplishments and statistics she has found soccer to fulfill her life in other ways as well. Last spring break Scholz traveled with students from City High, West High, and the University of Iowa to Xicotepec, Mexico for a service project.

“The trip was really rewarding,” Scholz said. “It opened my eyes and was an opportunity to help people in poor circumstances. It’s an experience I’ll hold onto forever.”

Along with volunteering, Scholz connected with local children through soccer.

“Playing soccer with the orphan boys was a way we could come together and share our love for something,” Scholz said. “Soccer is something that is loved all over the world and it was really nice to have that to relate to those children.”

Scholz will return to Mexico to volunteer this spring break and hopes to reconnect with the children she met last year. When she

comes home from the service project she will join her teammates to continue preparing for the 2013 season.

“I’m excited to work on the turf field and I believe our new head coach [Sarah Bleeker] will be a great addition to the team,” Scholz said.

“She will work us hard and bring good character to the team.”

With only two wins last season, Scholz believes there is room for improvement in herself and the team. However, with determination she is optimistic for the upcoming season.

“My team and I are looking for a resurrection this season,” Scholz said. “I’m a firm believer in ‘practice makes perfect’ and we have really dedicated players coming out so I have no doubt we can make that happen.”

After her final season at City, Scholz will continue playing soccer. In the fall Scholz will attend the University of Wisconsin La Crosse.

She intends to major in Biology, study abroad, and proceed on to medical school.

“I’m really happy I chose La Crosse,” Scholz said. “It seems like a great fit for me and will open doors to many opportunities.”

An opportunity that she plans to take advantage of next fall is to play soccer for the school’s team.

“It would be great to be able to keep playing,” Scholz said. “Soccer is such a big part of my life that I can’t really see my future without it in some way. I think in college it will especially help, keeping me focused, driven, and helping me succeed, inside and outside of the game.”

Rec League playoffs are in full swing and only four teams remain.

Remaining teams include Blue Ballers, Just Hoop It, Sesame Street Bangerz, and Ball Stars.

“I’m excited to play two more games and continue our dominance in the post-season. I think we have a great shot at winning the championship and plan on doing so,” Blue Ballers member Jake Leohr ‘14 said.

After their 14 point win over BBB, The Blue Ballers, who went 7-0 in the regular season, are favored going into next Monday’s semifinal game.

They will face the Sesame Street Bangerz who just barely won their quarterfinal game against God Squad 45-43.

“Our dads really want us to beat Blue Ballers. We will do it for our dads,” Sesame Street Bangerz member Sid Van der Woude ‘13 said.

“Their dad’s couldn’t even beat our dads if they wanted to.”

Ball Stars won six games in the regular season, but lost a close overtime contest against the Blue Ballers.

They also won their quarterfinal game from a forfeit by Gorgle Crew.

“We were really excited to be the comeback kids and beat Balls Stars,” Gorgle Crew captain Greg Greir ‘14 said.

Even though Gorgle Crew won in points against Ball Stars they had to forfeit because they had illegal players that weren’t on their original

roster. Ball Stars member Niall Oliver ‘13 says his team is excited for the semi-finals.

“Even though we lost one game I still think our season was great. We started from the bottom and now we’re here,” he said.

BBB member Ruth Grace ‘14 says she thinks the Ball Stars, while underdogs, have a good chance of pulling off some upsets in the games to come.

“Everyone pretty much underestimated Ball Stars. We (BBB) thought we had a chance against them. But they really proved us and everyone else wrong.”

Next, the Ball Stars will play Just Hoop It in the semi-finals. However, they will be missing at least three players due to school sports.

“We’re looking forward to some redemption against Ball Stars. Hopefully they’ll lose a couple guys to soccer and that’ll help us out.” Just Hoop It member Jack Frakes ‘13 said.

Spring sports starting up is creating a problem for some Rec League teams because players have to miss games due to school practices.

“I think we’re still going to be fine, it’s just Niall, Brook, and I can bring things to the game that help us win,” Ball Stars member Grant Lewis ‘13 said. “Mitch is still gonna be cashin’ out though.”

The next round of playoffs will be Monday, March 25, 2013. Blue Ballers will play Bangerz at 4:00 p.m. and Just Hoop It will play Ball Stars at 4:00 p.m.

ABOVE: Xavier Washpun ‘14 drives to the hoop against Connor Graves ‘13 and Grant Lewis ‘13. photo by Ryan Young.

ABOVE: Jack Frakes ‘13 drives to the hoop against a Tate High player in a recent rec-league game. photo by Ryan Young.

Rec League Basketball: Playoffs 2013 #1 Blue Ballers #8 B.B.B. #5 God Squad #4 Sesame Street #3 Just Hoop It. #6 Tate High #7 Gorgle Crew #2 Ball Stars

#1 Blue Ballers 3/25 4:00 pm

#4 Sesame Street Bangerz 3/25 5:00 pm

#3 Just Hoop It. 3/25 4:00 pm

#2 Ball Stars Last Updated Monday, March 11th.

B6 SPORTS

MARCH 15, 2013

OPINION

Super star matchup:

His Airness VS. King James

With the ongoing debate on which superstar is best, the Lebron James and Micheal Jordan conflict continues to be one of the hottest topics in the sports world.

By Malin Craig

malincraig@thelittlehawk.com One of the hottest topics in sports these days is the intriguing matchup between the best of all time, and the best of OUR time. Michael Jordan against LeBron James. “His Airness” versus “King James”. Air Jordan and “The Chosen One”. A debate that destroys friendships and consumes a lot of some peoples time. It is also a debate that will never be settled. Jordan, at age 50, long retired and already living a life of luxury as a cigar-smoking golf playing multi-millionaire, will never step on the court to face LeBron. With no ability to actually see the matchup happen on a real basketball court, we must use statistics and simulations to figure out who would theoretically come out on top.

TheBleacherReport.com ran a 1,001 game simulation on the outcome of a series between Jordan’s 1995-96 Chicago Bulls and LeBron’s 2011-2012 Miami Heat squad. In theses 1,001 contests, the Bulls and Jordan won 60.5% of the time, while the heat controlled 39.5% of the victories. In this

series of games the Bulls averaged 98.6 points per game, and the Heat were at a 94.4 point per game average. Now in these simulated games, Scottie Pippen of the Bulls could of played at a very high level, or Dwyane Wade of the Heat could pull out a couple victories for Miami’s team, and the presence of LeBron and Jordan would be lessened. This accounts for how a series between LeBron and Michael’s teams would end up, but it does not show what would happen in an individual game of one on one between these two superstars.

It is often used as an argument “Jordan has six championships! LeBron only has one!” Championships are very significant, and James could easily win 3 of the next 4 NBA finals.

When LeBron was asked about this he responded by saying “Rings don’t always define someones career, if thats the case I would sit up here and say Bill Russell (11 championship rings) over Jordan, but I wouldn’t.”

LeBron James has always skirted the question about him and Michael one on one. Jordan just recently addressed the topic, and he was very clear in how confident he would be in

beating James. “So if I have to guard him....I’m gonna push him left 9 out of 10 times, and he’s going to shoot a jump shot. If he goes right, he’s going to the hole and I can’t stop him. So I ain’t letting him go right,” Jordan said.

During his career, Michael Jordan was one of the greatest isolation and clutch players of all time. Being clutch and “doing it on his own” is a thing that LeBron has struggled with. He has taken more than his fair share of criticism for disappearing in the 4th quarters of the 2011 Finals against the Mavericks. LeBron’s willingness to defer to the seemingly more clutch Dwyane Wade has been highly scrutinized ever since the two All-Stars joined forces in 2010. This is the biggest difference between LeBron and Jordan. When the games were close, MJ would take (and usually make) the biggest shots of the game. His clutch factor is regarded as the greatest in the history of sports. The killer instinct that LeBron sometimes seems to be lacking is what Jordan was greatest at.

In the summer of 2010 LeBron drew a lot of negative attention to himself by leaving his home state of Ohio and the Cleveland Cavaliers by

“taking his talents to South Beach” and joining the Miami Heat, where Dwyane Wade had been for his whole career and superstar power forward Chris Bosh had just signed. This was a turning point in James’s career as he now appeared weak by joining a group of superstars to try to win multiple championships. He was criticized for taking the “easy way out” by going to Miami. Jordan stayed with the Bulls for all of his championship seasons, and they built around him. Unlike James who created a super-team in South Beach. Jordan’s commitment to the Bulls through the tough years and hard playoff losses make him the best basketball player of all time.

LeBron is regarded as a better passer and rebounder, which may be partly true as he averages 6.9 assists per game through his career, and Jordan averaged 5.3. LeBron also has the edge in rebounding as he rebounds at a rate of 7.3 per game and Jordan was at 6.2 during his career. Defensively, Jordan holds the statistical advantage as he averages the same amount of blocks as LeBron, who is three inches taller.

Jordan also averaged a full steal more than LeBron does. Jordan was also the

Defensive Player of the Year and was named to the All-Defensive 1st team 9 times. LeBron has been named to that team four times, and his career is far from over, but another five would be difficult to achieve. Scoring-wise, it is a world of difference, Jordan has the highest career average points per game of all time at 30.1 while LeBron is at 27.6 points per game. Jordan also shot 83% from the free throw line, as LeBron shoots a mediocre 74%. Jordan is also more accurate from the field, with 49% field goal percentage compared to LeBron’s 47%. Very close, but still a difference.

Overall, LeBron and Jordan are very hard to compare. The competition they face are different, and they are two different kind of players. LeBron being an extremely powerful freight train like human at six foot nine and about 260 pounds. Jordan was a lean “Black Cat” who used finesse to turn his six foot six 210 pound body into a six time NBA champion. The trait that most separates the two players is the clutch factor, and killer instinct. LeBron has it sometimes, but M.J. always did. That is why Michael Jordan is the best basketball player of all time.

City Athletic Director leaving for Pleasant Valley

City High Athletic Director D’Anne Kroemer (right) stands with Coach Jan Grenko during the 2012 State Volleyball Tournament. Kroemer will leave City High after this year. photo by Ryan Young

By Ryan Young

ryanyoung@thelittlehawk.com City High athletic director D’Anne Kroemer is leaving City High, and heading to Pleasant Valley High School in the Quad Cities. Kroemer will take over as the associate principal in-charge of activities.

“This was my opportunity to have a similar job much closer to home,” Kroemer said. “[Pleasant Valley] is an amazing school district.”

Kroemer, who started in 2007, has been involved in several key projects while at City High. She helped lead the “Stand Up For City High” campaign, which helped raised money for the Bates Field renovations. Kroemer also

hired several new coaches, and was named Iowa Athletic Director of the Year in 2012.

“I loved being apart of the City High community. It is a place like no other,” Kroemer said. “I will always bleed red and white.”

Kroemer will finish out the year at City High, and will officially start at Pleasant Valley on July 1st. Assistant Principal Terry Coleman will take over as Athletic Director next year.

“Terry’s deep commitment to City High and public education will make him very successful in this new role,” Principal John Bacon said. “I am absolutely thrilled for our school, and for Terry.”

Coleman will officially start at his new position on July 1st. The search for a new assistant principal is currently ongoing.

Acne?

If so, we are right down the street!

Iowa City Dermatology Susan Wall, MD and Erica Colleran, MD Located on First Ave. midway between City High and Regina 269 N1st Ave Ste 100 Call today for an appointment!

319-339-3827

www.iowacitydermatology.com

MARCH 15, 2013

SPORTS

Soccer teams to play on new turf With practices starting up this week, the boys’ and girls’ soccer teams are looking forward to the upcoming spring season.

By Olivia Hamilton & Ryan Young

oliviahamilton@thelittlehawk.com ryanyoung@thelittlehawk.com

New girls’ golf coach bringing changes

By Sabrina Rodgers

sabrinarodgers@thelittlehawk.com

Girls’ Soccer

As snow starts to melt and green starts to reappear, the girls’ soccer team is looking towards a bright new season this spring with the addition of the turf field and new head coach, Sarah Bleeker.

Although the prospect of games being held on the turf was previously uncertain the team will both practice and play on the new field. The team hopes that hosting games close by this season will make it more convenient for fans to come watch.

“It’s great we get to practice and host at home,” Melanie O’Meara ‘13 said. “I’m really excited that we have the turf. I think it will help get more people to come to the games since our field would finally be on our school’s campus.”

Along with the new turf the team will now be lead by head coach Sarah Bleeker, the former Clear Creek Amana girls’ soccer coach.

“She seems like she’ll do well to help improve our team,” Maddie Schroeder ‘13 said. “So far she seems like a good coach, but she hasn’t really been able to coach us yet.”

With only two wins last season the team agrees there is lots of room for improvement and is excited to bring in new players in addition to their new coach and returning players.

“We have a stronger freshman class this year than last year so I think that will definitely help improve our team,” O’Meara said. “We didn’t have so many wins last season, so we can only get better right?”

“We have a lot of young talent this year,” Schroeder added. “But our freshman Lizzie Ward definitely shows promise, especially in the defense.”

With the changes and additions the team has undergone before the

B7

ABOVE: Erin Danielson ‘13 fights for the ball during a home match last season. photo by Kierra Zapff.

season they believe they will be able to improve their record from the past year, but also can’t wait to return to their traditions.

“Along with all of this and that,” O’Meara said. “I’m really looking forward to Ruth’s mom’s turkey tetrazzini and Erin’s mom’s lasagna at team dinners.”

Boys’ Soccer

With winter coming to a close and the new turf field behind City High School awaiting use, the players on the boys’ soccer team are beginning to get anxious. The Little Hawk boys’ soccer team has kicked off their season, having their first practice of the year last Monday.

“Obviously our main goal is to

win state,” Luke Mennen ‘13 said.

“But for now, we just want to stay focused and work hard every day in practice.”

The team is lead by 5 returning seniors, after losing only 3 seniors from last season. They working to punch their ticket to the state tournament for a second consecutive year. City made it to the state tournament last year, but lost to West Des Moines Valley 0-1 in the quarterfinal match.

“Last year’s loss [to Valley] was tough,” Mennen said. “But it gives our team a ton of motivation to make it back this year.”

Mennen has committed to play soccer at Drake University in Des Moines next year. Another C i t y senior has committed to play soccer next year. Fernando Pacheco ‘13 will

continue his soccer career at Western Illinois.

“We have been together for 2 years now, and we work well together,” Pacheco said. “Since we only lost a few guys from last year, we have some really good team chemistry.”

The Little Hawks first home game is on April 4th. This season the boys as well as the girls teams will compete on the new turf field behind the school rather than return to Schrader Field at Longfellow Elementary.

City has some time between now and their first game, and the team is focused on improving during practice.

“We don’t want to focus on what we did last year,” Pacheco said. “We want to stay focused on what we want to accomplish this season.”

The City High girls’ golf team has a new addition to their team this season. Sophomore Volleyball coach Laura Kremer is now the new head coach.

“I want to give my Little Hawk golfers the same positive experience that I had in high school,” Kremer said. “Most people think I just have a passion for volleyball, but I love golf.”

Kremer is taking over for previous coach Gregg Andrews. Andrews retired from coaching last fall.

“I’m excited and hopeful that I can get more girls to see the fun and benefit of what golf has to offer,” Kremer said.

Last season the team placed third at their regional meet, one place short of qualifying as a team for the state meet. Katherine van der Woude ‘12 qualified as an individual, shooting an 80 at the regional meet.

“It didn’t feel very good not qualifying last year,” Emily Koepnick ‘13 said. “But that feeling really motivated me to work hard during the off season and improve my game.”

The golf team has been working hard to improve over the off season.

Several varsity players competed in tournaments over the summer, and worked on their technique in a golf simulator during the winter.

“A lot of us golfed over the summer,” Koepnick said. “And a few of us have even been working on our swings during the winter. So hopefully that will all pay off.”

City has 3 returning varsity players this year, and are led by lone senior Koepnick. The remaining 3 spots will be filled by members of last year’s JV team.

“We have the opportunity to take the skills we already have and bring it to the varsity team.” Addie Bockenstedt ‘14 said.

The girls first home meet is Thursday April 11, when they host Jefferson, Washington, and Linn Mar. “One reason I took the golf job is because I had a phenomenal coach in high school,” Kremer said. “He showed me that I could learn so much from the sport and apply it to my everyday life.”

FOR UPDATED SPORTS COVERAGE GO TO:

www.thelittlehawk.com

B8 SPORTS

PLAYMAKER PROFILE TRACK RUNNERS CLAIRE CREW AND BROOK PRICE

MARCH 15, 2013

By Daniela Perret

Claire Crew Grade: 12 How many years have you been doing track?

12 years

What events do you do?

100, 200, and 400

What made you decide to do track?

My parents encouraged me to start at a young age and I’ve been doing it ever since.

Do you plan on running track in college?

Yes.

What are your goals for the season, team and personal?

Win state and get a Drake flag.

How has the season been so far?

Pretty good.

What are your PRs for your events?

12.3 in the 100 and high 56 in the 400.

What are you looking forward to this season?

Drake and State.

What is your favorite part about being on the team?

We get along well and team dinners.

Favorite meet?

Drake or State.

What is your favorite event?

4x100 Do you have any pre-race rituals?

Not really.

Do you have a certain runner that you look up to?

If so, who?

Nope.

Favorite accessory?

Spandex.

Favorite food?

I love food, I don’t have a favorite.

Any shout-outs?

I love you Haz:)

Brook Price Grade: 12 How many years have you been doing track?

6 years

What events do you do?

800, 1600, 3200

What made you decide to do track?

I don’t play soccer.

Do you plan on running track in college?

Yes.

What are your goals for the season, team and personal?

Win Conference, improve my times and stuff.

How has the season been so far?

Fantastic.

What are your PRs in your events?

800-1:57.07, 1600-4:28

What are you looking forward to this season?

Beating people.

What is your favorite part about being on the team?

Being with the guys.

Favorite meet?

Forwald/Coleman Relays

What is your favorite event?

800 and 1600

Do you have any pre-race rituals?

Listening to SK8r Boi.

Do you have a certain runner that you look up to?

If so, who?

My dogs. Ben and Bella.

Favorite accessory?

Chapstick.

Favorite food?

Pizza.

Favorite type of dance?

Square.

Any shout-outs?

My sister. Hey Rylee

What is one thing that most people don’t know about you?

I’m obsessed with Rihanna.