April Issue by valerie Kibler

The

newsstreak

where every person has a story

Harrisonburg High School • 1001 Garbers Church Road • Harrisonburg, VA 22801 • 540.433.2651

Shrimp Oyster Po-Boy recipe

A10

Volume XIC • Issue 8• April 27, 2012

Student-led Spring Arts Festival marks a new tradition

Christy Stearn

editor-in-chief

or the first time, the drama department initiated a new tradition by hosting an event other than the regular spring play following its musical season. Theatre aide Phil Saunders and senior Emmett Copeland collaborated to contrive the Spring Arts Festival, a celebration of the arts. The pair came up with idea last fall, and conveyed their vision to seniors Dorrall Price, Ama Ansah, and Dylan Norquest, who were

eager to take part in its inception. The Spring Arts Festival, which premiered on April 13 at 7 p.m., consisted of four plays directed by the senior crew. Each play was approximately ten minutes and discussed themes including abortion (“Unplanned” by Norquest), depression (“Linda Her” by Copeland), a school shooting (“10 minutes” by Price), and mail-order Russian brides (“Rupert and the Russian Email Brides” by Ansah). In addition to the highlight skits, group and solo musical acts and dancers performed between each play. Junior Paul Hairston culminated the night’s perfor-

mances with his short film, Dreamt, a sixteen-minute long movie where “a man explores fate through the lense of lucid dreaming.” Coffee, dessert, and other refreshments were served an hour prior to the event’s start. The entire festival stemmed for an hour and a half. No admission fee was charged, but donations were graciously accepted; all proceeds went to HHS’s drama program. “We were originally just going to have our four shows as the only acts of the night, then decided to incorporate other talents for time purposes and to break up the plays so audiences wouldn’t be con-

fused by the quick transitions,” Price said. “A lot of the people that performed in music and dance acts were also in a play.” The student directors viewed the festival as a unique learning experience. “We [Saunders and Emmett] see this as a good starting point for future studentled involvement in the arts department,” Copeland said. “We don’t get to direct and produce enough in the classroom, and it’s a real-life skill that we were able to put into action.” Both students and advisers hope to continue the Spring Arts Festival annually. n

STAR banquet honors exceptional students, teachers Ama Ansah

online blogger

n April 10, HHS held its first annual 4.0 Senior-Teacher Recognition Banquet at the Spotswood Country Club. The event commemorated seniors who will be graduating with honors—a 4.0 GPA or above for all four years—to recognize a teacher who has made a difference in their educational careers. “I think it’s great to honor the 4.0 seniors and that they are recognizing our hard work,” senior Gwen Elwood said. All 4.0 seniors were given the assignment of selecting an instructor who significantly impacted them and writing a 250-word essay about their influence. Students were allowed to choose any teacher they have had from kindergarten through twelfth grade, including teachers that are not in the Harrisonburg City School District. Though he thinks it is a positive idea, senior Evan Shank notes that to many seniors, writing an extra paper feels like an additional assignment. “I think it is great that [the teachers] get to be recognized, I just don’t know if students were

Scan this with your smart phone to be taken to

www.newsstreak.com!

Coming Up: See where graduating seniors will be attending college next fall Find out which senior athletes are being recruited Read seniors’ last will and testament. See seniors’ baby pictures Test your knowledge with our annual senior quiz Seniors thank standout teachers that have made a difference in their education Compare today’s prices with those from previous years Read about senior statistics

Freeze Frame

happy with having to write the paper. To them, it feels like more h o m e w o r k ,” Shank said.. Other students, like Elwood, did not mind the assignment, arguing that the hardest part was choosing a teacher to honor. “I have had so many wonderful teachers, but I thought about it and chose Mrs. McNett,” Elwood said. Judie McNett is a reading specialist at Thomas Har- Smile! Seniors Mikala Wolter, Kari King, and rison Middle Anna Boisen pose with their mentor band School who director J.R. Snow. Photo courtesy of Amy helped young Powers. Elwood with I wouldn’t be where I am today,” literacy. “I struggled with reading Elwood said. when I was younger. She helped At the banquet, students and me so much—she worked so their parents were seated with many hours with me. I wouldn’t their teachers and served a lunch have this 4.0 average without her.

of salad, potatoes, corn, and chicken. After the lunch portion, each student read their essay in front of the banquet attendees while they enjoyed dessert. Seniors Mikala Wolter, Anna Boisen, and Kari King took a different approach to honoring their favorite teacher, band director J.R Snow. Wolter picked a piece of music written by her older brother, and the three girls, accompanied by Elwood, performed the piece. “We wanted to show what he taught us,” violinist Boisen said. “If you are in band, Snow impacts your life in so many ways. He was a big influence in my choice to go into music [at JMU].” For the teachers, being recognized by a student came as a surprise. Weeks before the event, teachers received an invitation to the banquet in the mail, but details were kept to a minimum. Principals excused their teachers from work. They did not know which students would be honoring them until they arrived at the banquet. “I was hoping it was someone who I would remember,” McNett laughed. “I was also hoping it would be serious and sincere.”

See STAR on A2

HHS reinstates old schedule for 2013 school year William Imeson

this issue

Inside

Tiny tots! Senior clarinetist Mikala Wolter welcomes children from local elementary schools to HHS for the band’s annual Tiny Tot concert. Photo courtesy of Mikala Wolter.

online editor-in-chief

t the beginning of the 2011-2012 school year, Harrisonburg High School made some serious altercations to its schedule. In previous years, HHS had blocks that were a combination of semester and full year classes. A semester class lasted only for the first half of the year and was every single day, while full year classes were every other day on an A or B day and lasted throughout the year. Traditionally, only advanced classes, some remedial classes, or electives (such as band, choir, etc.) were full year. The rest of the students would spend their school days in 90 minutes semester classes. But at the beginning of this school year, semester classes were done away with in one fell

“

SPORTS

FEATURE

NEWS Editor-in-chief Vanessa Ehrenpreis is named Virgina JEA student journalist of the year.

“

swoop. No longer did HHS “Each department will have classes every single day. choose classes to be either alNow we have a strict A/B Each department ternating or semester. If you day schedule and alternating will choose classes to remember last year, we had a classes. sort of hybrid schedule,” guidbe either alternating Junior Hayden Rutherford ance director Amy Powers said. or semester. did not like the new sched“It will also feature new classes, -HHS guidance such as a Dual-Enrolled Kineule for 2011. “I don’t like it because director Amy siology class taught by Paul some classes like math or P.E Powers Rath and Amy Wheeler. Other or Weight Training should than that, we’re not completely just not be full year. I would positive about schedule revienjoy them more if they were sions.” over after 90 days.” While the old schedule contained full year Luckily for Rutherford, he just might get and semester classes, the newest schedule will his wish. After a year of experimentation, the hopefully satisfactorily blend the past years of administration at HHS is considering some experimentation. The school day will start at changes once again. The new schedule for the 7:45 in the morning and end at 2:35. This is a 2012-2013 school year will incorporate both fifteen minute push back from this year. n full year and semester classes.

Throughout the decades, animals have served as more than just pets.

Staff members Ben DiNapoli and Jake Durden hike Skyline Drive.

THE

experience

Members from the Newsstreak staff ventured to Seattle, Washington for a journalism convention in early April.

B10

April 27, 2012

The

newsstreak

NEWS- Isabelle Burden - A2

Quarterly exellence awards motivate, reward students Paulina Rendon feature editor

his year was the start of new rules and activities at HHS. Principal Tracy Shaver began implementing the new policies, like the Excellence Ceremony, in his first year as principal of HHS. “The Excellence Ceremonies are an opportunity throughout the school year to recognize student accomplishment on an ongoing basis,” Shaver said. “I believe that recognizing students who have accomplished so much is something important for a school to do.” The ceremony is a school-wide assembly in which students who meet certain criteria go to the auditorium to be recognized. After Shaver and Vice Principals Sonya Bullard, Michael Eye, and Eric Sents introduce the students, breakfast is served in the cafeteria and auditorium commons. The assembly is during first block. “It’s during the school day. [For] students who have excelled in their academics, I believe they’re able to miss some instructional time,” Shaver said. “So we decided to hold it during the school day, and made it short and sweet and to the point. We want to give the students an opportunity to really enjoy the celebration.” Parents of the students who are being recognized are invited to come. According to Shaver, the feedback about the excellence awards from parents, faculty, staff, and students has been positive. There was also in improvement between the first and second ceremonies for the students.

“Our second excellence assembly actually had increased participation over the first excellence assembly. We recognized 457 students after the second quarter, versus the 444 in the first quarter, and the second assembly did not include perfect SOL scores. Which is nice,” Shaver said. There are several aspects the students can be recognized for in the assembly. The student could have all As, all As and Bs, or be a Renaissance or Most Improved student. “Another component of the excellence assembly are the students who are most improved,” Shaver said. “They may not have earned all As and Bs, but they have been recognized by their teacher for putting forth the extra effort and working harder at what they need to do to make improvements in their classes, so that’s been a positive thing as well.” Teachers have the sole responsibility for nominating their students for the most improved category. The teacher could choose to elect them based on their individual class or a specific class. The student could have improved on attendance, grades, or a change in behavior. The excellence assembly was an idea that Shaver brought over from his previous job in Manassas Park. Five years ago, the school began their own excellence program. “We noticed that when we began the tradition of the excellence assemblies after each quarter, we saw more and more students pushing to do better in school,” Shaver said. “We saw a dramatic shift in the climate in what the students wanted to attain and aspire to.”

“

We noticed that when we began the tradition of the excellence assemblies after each quarter, we saw more students pushing to do better in school. -Principal Tracy Shaver

“

Shaver believes that the student motivation to do better comes from a variety of different things. Climate and cultural changes in the schools could be a positive influence, as well as time. “[At HHS] We recognized 13 more students the second quarter over the first quarter, but if you can recognize each quarter 13 more students, imagine where [we] can be after four or five years. You’re going to have instead of 457, 857 students getting great grades, coming to school on time, and exhibiting excellent behavior. We have about 1300 students, and recognizing 457 (35%) of the student body is something to be very proud of. And I’m very proud of the 35% of the student body being superb.” Shaver said. The idea to implement excellence assemblies in HHS did not solely belong to Shaver. Amy Powers, the guidance director, created the program. She created the list of students in Renaissance for the honor role. The Renaissance classes put together the certificates and all the awards. The other assistant

principals, including Shaver, work to make sure the auditorium is clean and the logistics are in place for the assembly. The ROTC students also help usher other students into the auditorium. Because this is the first year of the excellence assemblies, Shaver is still experimenting with the process. “In years to come it would probably be a neat idea to incorporate different things. I really don’t want to do the exact same thing every time, so I’m open to new ideas on how to spruce up the celebration in years to come.” Shaver said. One change Shaver considers making is having the ceremonies at a different time, still during the school day. “After the second one it was brought to my attention by a couple of students who are in governor’s school asked, ‘why do you always have these in the mornings? We have school so we can’t come.’ So something that we’re going to do in the future is also to have some in the afternoon so that they could attend.” Shaver said. Shaver hopes to continue the assemblies in the future. He wants students to be welcome to make any suggestions on how to improve them to make them more engaging for students. “I’d like to have a pep rally for each season, for sports as well as academics. Take a look at how well our Forensics team, and our Debate team both district and regional champions and competing in the state event. Not every school gets there. We should celebrate those activities as well.” Shaver said. n

Hunter spends day in silence promoting GSA

he Day of Silence, a day to show respect for bullied kids in our school, and around the world. We often don’t realize how many students spend their days wandering the halls, alone and sure that they will be bullied for their sexuality, morals, religion, you name it. Alex Hunter-Nickels is only one of the many students who participated on April 20. He stayed in the cafeteria commons along with many others, not speaking, not even looking at the several Newsstreak staff members who were

bombarding him with cameras. The idea is that the participating students will learn what it feels like to be completely dicriminated against. He wrote a brief summary and explanation of his actions, shown in the picture, as did many other students around school. The day was broadcasted on Facebook and Twitter, with Hunter- Nickels as one of the leaders. Ellie PruittFeiderlien also participated. Several students tried to coax the students into talking. No one gave in, showing the dedication of these kids.

Shhhh... Junior Alex Hunter-Nickels spent Friday, April 20 in silence promoting what it’s like to be discriminated against.

News Briefs •

• • • • •

•

The now annual Spring Arts Festival was a huge hit, featuring performances by many of our students, including short plays, vocal performances, and a student directed movie. SOL’s are coming up fast! study, study, study! Prom Court nominations have just come in. Prom will be on May 19th, 2012! The Day of Silence has recently occured on 4/20. SCA elections have taken place and Ben DiNapoli was elected the next SCA president Soup Night is coming up! Bring your bowls!

Sports Briefs • •

•

Girl’s Varsity soccer has it’s next game on April 24th Girl’s Varsity soccer has their biggest game of the season against Spotswood on April 27th, 2012. April 19th, girls tennis lost to R.E. Lee at a close rematch, losing at the same score that they did when they played R. E. Lee the first time. Boy’s varsity tennis has had their last match reschedualed for May 2, 2012. Girl’s varsity softball has had many cancellations and rescheduals due to wet fields and mud. The Varsity track team won their last meet against R. E. Lee and Waynesboro.

From STAR on A1 When she found out the student was Elwood, she was thrilled. “[Gwen’s piece] made me bawl-I teared up! It was a wonderful,” McNett said. “I always thought that we had a great student-teacher relationship and she said it better than I ever could have.” Like Elwood and Boisen, many students enjoyed having the opportunity to honor a teacher. “It was great to be able to give them a formal thank you and tell them what an impact they had on us,” Boisen said. n

SENIORS!

the time has come. the school year is almost over. which means it’s time for...

Senior Wills check out

www.newsstreak.com for the entry form. All wills due on May 11th

YOU!

CAN BE AWESOME. WRITE FOR THE NEWSSTREAK.

April 27, 2012

The

newsstreak

NEWS -Kavya Beheraj - A3

Photo by Kavya Beheraj

Art students create mural with Valley artist Sydney Little

feature editor

hen art teacher Jauan Brooks and artist Beryl Solla asked the Art 3 and 4 students what made Harrisonburg and the Shenandoah Valley unique and what they would miss most about Harrisonburg after leaving, they finally came up with

the sunrise over the Massanutten Mountains. “There were ideas for agriculture, dogwoods, etc, but we finally decided on the sunrise over the mountains - it’s such a recognizable, artistic, and aesthetic image,” junior Samantha Heitsch said. Beryl Solla is head of the art department at Piedmont Virginia Community College in Charlottesville. She came down to help the art department at HHS through a

workshop affiliated with the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts. “Mr. Shaver told me that he wanted the art department to put up more art around the school, so I got a grant approved that allowed us to create a mural,” Brooks said. After deciding they wanted the design to be the sunrise over the mountains, Heitsch and seniors Corban Leach and Bryan Chicas drew out what the class would actually be putting up on the wall.

“Corban was an obvious choice because he’s ridiculously realistic in his drawings. I just really wanted to draw it, and some friends sort of volunteered me, so of course I complied. I had fun working with Corban and Bryan, but we were under a time constraint for drawing it. Corban and I ruined a couple of pencils scribbling like mad on the wall,” Heitsch said. Solla’s specialty in art is mosaics, so when she came to HHS, she

provided all of the colored tiles that the classes would use. The students finally created the mosaics with Solla’s help in the JROTC hallway. “Beryl has done a lot of mosaics with other schools so she had come up with a very strict schedule for us to follow. It ended up only taking us one day to make,” Brooks said. n

Prom will be at Spotswood Country Club for first time Conner Whitehouse

staff reporter

or the first time since the high school’s construction, HHS’s junior/ senior prom will be held off school grounds at the Spotswood Country Club following introductions at HHS. The prom committee, comprised of junior class officers, met frequently after school with study skills teacher Bonnie Anderson to determine the dance’s theme and location and to purchase decorations and favors. HHS’ 2012 Mardi Gras-themed prom will begin at 7 p.m. on May 19. Following tradition, introductions will be held at HHS prior to the dance, which will then begin afterwards at its unprecedented location. “The first year that we were in the new building, the kids didn’t mind having prom

in the cafeteria, but no one wants that anymore,” Anderson said. “That’s why we made more of an effort to change locations this year, and it worked out perfectly.” Although last year’s prom was held in the high school’s gym commons, the 2011 committee relentlessly tried to find another host for the dance. “It was impossible,” said senior and former prom committee member Lindsey Carpenter. “We tried to have prom at the Spotswood Country Club, two different ballrooms at JMU, a ballroom at EMU, and the Courtyard Marriott, but none of them worked.” After selecting the site and choosing the theme, this year’s prom committee met with the managers at the country club and handpicked out the food that will be available for the attendees. “We have found some beautiful decora-

“

tions for the dance, and we citement despite its are doing it all ourselves break in tradition. this year which is saving While the ticket The fact that we’re money,” Anderson said. price will be raised going to the Coun“We’re bypassing the comdue to the change pany that usually sets up.” in venue, it is not try Club makes me Following the dance, discouraging attengenuinely excited after prom will be held at dance. about going to the James Madison URec “The week of center and will feature racprom is a week later prom this year. quetball courts, a rock wall than it usually is, -senior Abe if the proper forms are but it ended up besigned, and an assortment ing perfect because Alvarado of other activities. Senior it doesn’t interfere students are particularly with anything. It just anxious about the location revision. so happened that the country club opened “The fact that we’re going to the Country up on the very same Saturday and we knew Club and URec makes me genuinely excited we had to grab it,” Anderson said. n about going to prom this year,” senior Abe Alvarado said. This year’s prom is stirring up a lot of ex-

“

Prom boutique opens with over 600 donated dresses Kavya Beheraj

Dress up! Outside of the Student Services room, student assistance coordinator Monica Johns manages the HHS Boutique, which gives away prom dresses to anyone who wants them. This year, Johns has the biggest boutique she has seen, with over 600 dresses.

news editor

verything from sparkled evening gowns to summery sundresses fill the HHS Boutique, free for any student to take to wear to prom. Student Assistance Coordinator Monica Johns has been in charge of the boutique for the last five or six years. “[This year,] I’ve gotten lots of donations from JMU as well as a formal dress shop that went out of business,” Johns said. “The owner [of the dress shop] donated a lot of dresses. The JMU students did a dress drive for me as well. I easily have 600 dresses this year, my biggest year ever.” Johns has had such an overflow of dresses that she opened the boutique a month early. “In the past, I’ve only had them available like a month before prom, but because I’ve gotten all these donations, I’ve just kind of had to have it available sooner,” Johns said. In addition to the racks she has on display outside of the Student Services room, she has four more racks of dresses that are offstage. “At the end of the day, I’m able to roll these dresses in here into my office, but the others I don’t have enough space for,” Johns said.

Students can get any dress on the rack for free at any time, but Johns has a few small requirements that she hopes every student follows. “I do ask that you go to prom, and I do ask that you try [the dress] on while you’re here. If you just take one home and it doesn’t fit, it would be easy not to bring it back,” Johns said. “When you get it home, if your parents don’t like or approve of it, then I do ask that you bring it back so somebody else can have it. And then you can shop again and find something else.” Johns conducted open houses for parents and students to come browse the dresses and hopefully lighten the excess. She has even allowed the county school students to do the same. “I’ll be anxious to see just how many dresses actually go [to prom] or if the county schools show up [to the open houses]. I’ll do another open house in April so I won’t have so many dresses left over to pack up,” Johns said. So far, Johns has found the response to be largely positive, with many students dropping by to pick out a dress or to browse with their friends. “It’s been well received, you know, lots of girls shopping,” Johns said. “So far, so good.” n

Ehrenpreis named Virginia JEA student journalist of the year Senior follows last year’s winner, Maria Rose, also from HHS Kavya Beheraj

news editor

ournalists are in the profession of answering questions by asking them. Whether it is a huge publication with an enormous worldwide audience or a small local paper catering to the students of Harrisonburg High School, that aspect of journalism does not change. Being a member of the Newsstreak has been an experience that senior Vanessa Ehrenpreis has definitely appreciated. This year, she took home a prize on the state level from the Journalism Education Association Journalist of the Year Scholarship. Winners of the

state level then moved on to the national competition in Seattle, where a winner and several runner-ups were chosen. “I decided to apply before break, but I actually got started on the application a month or two before it was due,” Ehrenpreis said. “The application is a portfolio where you basically put together all your best work, whether it is in writing, layout, or other aspects, and then [you explain] how they relate to the field of journalism.” She began on the Newsstreak in her first year of high school as a staff reporter, and is now co-editor-in-chief of the publication. “I started in journalism my freshman year. I’ve always wanted to be a journalist in some capacity,” Ehrenpreis said. “It’s a career that’s really appealed to me since I was in third grade.” Her four years in journalism were part of the reason she applied for the scholarship.

“It validates everything I’ve done as a journalist, definitely. It’s really nice to know that everything you’ve been working for has been good. That was the main reason that I applied,” Ehrenpreis said. Ehrenpreis found that the hardest part of her application was organizing her best work into categories such as “skilled and creative use of media” or “courageous and responsible handling of sensitive issues.” Specifically, narrowing down everything she ever wrote or designed in a neat portfolio, along with an analyzation of her journalism experience. “You couldn’t really prepare for it. You sort of had to go in with an analytical eye and examine yourself, which can be really difficult since you’re biased. You had to be a good editor when it came to your own work,” Ehrenpreis said. “Determining how to present [your best work] in your portfolio was the main issue.”

Ehrenpreis received $500 for winning on the state level. “It was a nice surprise, definitely, because there was some stiff c omp e t it i on this year,” Ehrenpreis said. Un l i ke other classes in high school, Editor-in-chief! Ehrenpreis won the Virginia E h r e n p r e i s Journalism Education Association Student has found that Journalist of the Year Award for her four years journalism has as part of Newsstreak staff. helped her in many aspects of her life. However, vive in the real world. It’s taught in the future, she hopes to pursue me how to be me, in some ways. international relations as a career. How to be independent. I really, “In English, you just get writ- really appreciate that. There’s just ing skills. In journalism, you get so much that you could never gain “everything” skills. You get social from any other class,” Ehrenpreis n skills, time management skills - said. everything you really need to sur-

April 27, 2012

The

newsstreak

ADS - A4

We offer Group & Individual Health, Life, Auto, Homeowner and Commercial Insurance. Located at 116 Reservoir Street Harrisonburg VA Phone: (540) 437-9030

Visit us at: www.brisinc.com

April 27, 2012

The Harrisonburg High School Newsstreak The Policy The Newsstreak is published by the students of Harrisonburg High School every month. Reproduction of any material from the newspaper is prohibited without the written permission from the editorial board. Advertising rates are available upon request. It is the policy of the Harrisonburg City Public School Board to comply with all applicable state and federal laws regarding non-discrimination in employment and educational programs and services. The Harrisonburg High School City Public Schools will not discriminate illegally on the basis of sex, race, religion, national origin, disability or age as to employment or educational programs and activities. Editorials appearing without a byline represent the majority opinion of the staff, but not necessarily the opinion of the adviser, school administration, or the school system. Signed editorials are accepted from people on the staff, but are subject to editing according to published guidelines and policies. Editorials may be edited for special reasons. Letters to the editor are encouraged and must be signed and a telephone number must be given. Names may be withheld if the editorial staff feels there is a just cause. The Newsstreak reserves the right to edit and may refuse to publish ads or letters deemed inappropriate, libelous, or obscene. Please drop your letter by room 444 or give them to any staff member. Letters may also be sent to the high school.

The

newsstreak

The Earth is an important thing to save The

newsstreak’s

It is becoming increasingly apparent that we need to do something about the Earth. Earth has been sending us subtle clues for a while: the lack of snow this winter, the 89 degree heat in April, the record number of tornados, the massive ice storm in Europe. Mother Earth is rather passive aggressive when she wants to be. Instead of shrugging her off, we should listen to her. Ok, we hear the Earth loud and clear, but what are we to do once we get her message? Most people

think that saving the earth requires a huge amount of effort--one giant leap for mankind. In reality, we can all do small things to help the environment. Over the past year, Newsstreak has been taking small steps towards a greener paper. We write and edit all of our stories on google docs instead of printing out three drafts of each story like we did in the past. Our computers are put to sleep when not in use. Newsstreak reporters have written numerous stories on environmentalism, going green, and student efforts to raise awareness. Old newspapers are recycled. There are little things the average student can do as well. Little

Professional Affiliations

The Newsstreak participates as a member of several journalistic evaluation services including the Columbia Scholastic Press Association (CSPA-2010 Gold Evaluation and 2005 & 2009 Silver Crown Winner), Quill&Scroll Journalism Honor Society (2010 First Place International Award), National Scholastic Press Association (NSPA), the Virginia High School League, Inc. Trophy Class Award, and the Southern Interscholastic Press Association All Southern Ranking and 2010 Scroggins Award winner.

newsstreak.com opt out notice:

If you do NOT want to allow your student’s full name or image to appear on the school newspaper site, please send an email to vkibler@harrisonburg. k12. va.us stating: I understand that the school newspaper, newsstreak.com, now has an online version of the publication. I DO NOT want my son/daughter (place student’s name here) to have his or her name or image published on this online venue.

efforts that do not feel like sacrifices. In the winter, when your house gets cold, wear a sweatshirt instead of turning the heat all the way up. When your teacher hands you back old papers that do not matter anymore, put them in the recycling bin. Instead of spending money on bottled water every day at lunch, save money--and the earth--by buying a reusable water bottle and a filter. Unplug things when you are not using them. Your charger does not need to stay plugged in the wall all day when your cellphone is not even there. As forward thinking as youth are considered to be, many of us fail to grasp the importance of saving

the Earth. One often overlooked benefit of being eco friendly is that it saves money. The drama department saves money every year by reusing wood from old sets. Students can save money by shopping at second hand stores. Gas is so expensive nowadays, you can buy a bike and not have to worry about the ever increasing price at the pump. These actions not only save green, but are green. Another obvious reason for protecting the Earth is that it is where you live. It is where everyone you love lives. It is where your children will live and where their children will live. So do your part and take care of the earth. Our earth. n

The Mia Perspective

Mia Karr

Being different is okay

The editors and staff Editors-in-Chief: Print - Christy Stearn, Vanessa Ehrenpreis Online - Jack Burden, William Imeson Managing Editors: Mark Duda, Maggie Siciliano Section Editors: News - Kavya Beheraj Opinion - Mia Karr Style - Katrina Sokolyuk Feature - Paulina Rendon Sports - Jake Durden Fun Director & Advertising Manager : Celia Ehrenpreis and Austin Coffey Photographers: Paulina Rendon, Jasmine Rose, Ana Hunter Nickels, Gypsy Torgerson Page Designers: Christy Stearn, Shannon Richard, Vanessa Ehrenpreis, Paulina Rendon, Jake Durden, Mia Karr, Kavya Beheraj, Katrina Sokolyuk, Mark Duda, Celia Ehrenpreis, Chris Sokolyuk, Sydney Little, Sydney Knupp, Rafael Snell-Feikema, Kevin Franco, Isabelle Burden Staff Reporters: Kavya Beheraj, Michael Johnson, Christy Stearn, Mark Duda, Maggie Siciliano, Ben DiNapoli, Anastasiya Kalyuk, Peter Byrd, William Imeson, Mia Karr, Mitch Depoy, Jake Durden, Andy Shisler, Paulina Rendon, Katrina Sokolyuk, Emily Jamieson, Chris Sokolyuk, Conner Whitehouse, Matt Bosch, Ben Marks, Shannon Kizner, Alexis Dickerson, Anthony Duong, John Earle, Emmett Copeland, Kevin Franco, Max Johnson, Rafael Snell-Feikema, Ann Bauhan, Isabelle Burden, Julexus Cappell, Nicholas Fernandez, Bryndal Fulginiti, Victoria Giron, Eduardo Hernandez, Ana Hunter-Nickels, Nicolas Lee, Jessica Nguyen, Shannon Richard, Jasmin Rose, Gypsy Torgerson, Irina Tsiberman, Ariel Vogel, Hope Carr

OPINION- Shannon Richard- A5

Art by Nishat Jamil

Newsstreak has been great experience Nahla Aboutabl online news editor

his is the last column I will ever write for this newspaper. It’s sad. I’ve only been a part of Newsstreak for two years, but I feel like this class has been another home to me. The only regret I have about joining Newsstreak? Not joining earlier. In all honesty, journalism has been my favorite class in all my public school education experience. I got to learn and explore the very things I wanted to learn and explore about, but I was also introduced to many great people. Even better, I got to tell many stories I probably wouldn’t have told if it weren’t for the newspaper and Newsstreak Online. So if you’re reading this and you are not a member of Newsstreak, re-

ally consider joining. Your writing will improve, you will learn many new skills, and you will be able to share your opinion or news stories with people of this school and of the city. Sharing these stories and my opinion on important (and many not so important things) has been my favorite part of this class. Imagine being a very talkative person, a very opinionated person too, and having the internet (through Newsstreak Online) to open up to. Imagine also, that you love being informative and helpful and you have the opportunity to help many through sharing what you write. You can do that through Newsstreak. And Mrs. Kibler will love you for sharing your opinion unlike some teachers in this school. There are also other reasons to

enjoy Newsstreak. We sometimes have random doughnut days. Yeah you might gain a few pounds by the end of the year, but typing away at the keyboard will surely burn some of those calories off, right? If you like to travel, well Newsstreak is for you too, if you have the money and patience to share a few days with the staff outside of school. For example, Newsstreak just went to Seattle this month. That’s all the way across the country in the very birthplace of Starbucks. I didn’t go, but that’s ok. I got to spend a few days in class chilling with the substitute and my other friends who didn’t go on the trip. So again, if you’re not a part of Newsstreak, give it a chance and join next year. You might be a talented journalist waiting to be discovered. You never know. n

Freshman remember first day of high school this year Taking a look back at those first nerve-racking moments Ella Marian

Nicole Downey

William Halling

What do you remember about your first day of high school? -It was pretty scary at first because I walked into the lunch room and didn’t see any of my friends from middle school. What do you remember about your first class? -I remember that Mr. Klemt was speaking in Latin to us and we had no idea what he was saying. What has been the coolest thing about being in high school this year? -More freedom. [I have enjoyed] meeting tons of new people. What piece of advise would you give to freshman next year? -Behave. It’s not good to talk in class too much, because people get really mad. Interview by Mia Karr

What do you remember about your first day of high school? -I remember walking in on the first day of school and seeing all my friends I hadn’t seen in a while. Also I remember trying to find my classes. What do you remember about your first class? -My first class was yearbook. What has been the coolest thing about being in high school this year? -I think the coolest thing about high school this year is having more freedom and more friends. What piece of advise would you give to freshman next year? -I would tell the rising freshman not to be afraid to ask older friends where things are. Interview by Ann Bauhan

What do you remember about your first day of high school? -I was excited because I was going to meet a bunch of new kids but it was scary because I didn’t know my way around. What do you remember about your first class? -It was pretty cool because the band here is better then the band in middle school. What has been the coolest thing about being in high school this year? -The electronics rule is pretty cool. What piece of advise would you give to freshman next year? -Learn your way around the high school. Interview by Jessica Nguyen

Natalya Murray

erything was new but it was a nice change. Overall it was a good but different experience. What do you remember about your first class? -The teacher gave us syllabuses and said how happy he was to meet us, as usual.

What has been the coolest thing about being in high school this year? -More freedom and responsibility. What piece of advise would you give to freshman next year? -Just enjoy yourself. Interview by Gypsy Torgerson

What do you remember about your first day of high school? -Different, ev-

hen I was little, my dad asked my girl scout troop if anyone liked puppies and we all raised our hands. He realized that this would all make us think, “Hey! We have so much in common!” Of course, when he recounted the tale when I was older and wiser, I realized he was clever, because everybody likes puppies. Well, not exactly. It’s really not that I dislike puppies, I am totally for them. The world would certainly be a sadder place without them. It is just that it appears that it is my obligation as an American female to adore puppies and kittens and all other baby animals to an extreme degree, and I feel like I have been letting the world down for the better part of my life. Looking back on myself as a kid, I was pretty neurotic. When a boy in my kindergarten class proclaimed that his favorite color was red, my favorite color, I immediately changed mine to pink, so as not to seem like a boy. I know, right? I seemed to be under the impression that everybody was analyzing my every move, so I changed my every move accordingly. When everybody was oohing and ahhing over pets, and buying folders with little fuzzy monkeys on them, I did too. For a while, I genuinely thought that I loved animals just as much as everybody else, even though I was slightly terrified in the presence of large dogs and could not stand all the stray cats on my street. Then I gradually realized that maybe I was not like everybody else, and maybe that was okay. It may just be that my only significant experience with a pet of my own was a guinea pig named Christmas I had for three days (It turns out my parents are allergic to anything with fur or feathers), but I think this feeling runs deeper than that. My point is all this is not to make everybody think that I am some horrible animal-hating person. It is simply to illustrate my point- sometimes you think you like something just because everybody else does and you actually do not. Or maybe my point is that it is okay to be different for strange reasons. Or maybe it is just that we should stop mass-producing folders with little fuzzy monkeys on them. n

Have an opinion? Write a letter to the editor and bring it by room 444!

April 27, 2012

Surviving the terrifying, dangerous, crazy world of....

this

The

newsstreak

OPINION -Mia Karr- A6

High School

BELIEVE

Go outside of your comfort zone school, and get a behind the scenes look at clubs and organizations.

Spring break gives students much needed rest William Imeson online editor-in-chief

h, spring break. The last true vestige of recess before the end of the school year. This hallowed time is only one school week, a total of nine days, but it is the sweetest and best of any school break. It beats out Thanksgiving break, winter break, and even though snow days are a delightfully unanticipated surprise, spring break reigns supreme. Why is this? It is simple. The first week in April marks the true beginning of spring and the first glimpses of a much needed summer vacation. By this point, we have been in school for 27 weeks and only nine remain before it is all over. This time seems long, but flies by in tantalizing goodness. The last fourth of the school year is always the best because the long winter months are over, spring sports have started, the days are longer, AP exams will soon be over, and everyone is excited to get out of school. One could make the argument that spring break is inferior to winter break because it is half as long. One would be mistaken. Admittedly, an extra week off is nice, but that is merely an opportunity for teachers to pile on some extra homework. Besides, winter break is beset with short days, cold winds, and limited outdoor opportunities. Sure sledding can be fun, but the excitement wears off once you are shivering. And we didn’t even get any snow this year; it was a couple weeks of bitter cold. Even though it is only a week, the days are starting to get warmer and the sun stays out longer. After being cooped up inside all winter, there is nothing better than getting outside in the warm sunshine and being active. Spring break means sports can be played, fresh air can be inhaled, and social activities can actually have an outdoor element. Banished are the days of putting on multiple layers and heavy coats. In their place we suddenly have tan lines, shorts and flip flops, the most excellent of summer time dress. Rejuvenation. Spring break is the mother of all partying breaks. People flock to the coasts all over the world and get their beach on for the first time in months. Soaking up the sun and splashing through waves with your friends is the perfect way to kick off the warm weather. Even though the weather in Virginia might not be warm enough for beaches quite yet, our southern states are more than welcoming and the adventure is nonstop. We most definitely believe that spring break is the most excellent of all recesses and ushers in spectacular summers. n Brooke Cobb What do you remember about your first day of high school? - I was really nervous, because I was new and didn’t know many people since I came from West Virginia. What do you remember about your first class? -Art, I hated it and switched out to Yearbook. I switched out because I just didn’t like drawing in my free time. What has been the coolest thing about being in high school this year? -Meeting new people and doing high school sports. What piece of advice would you give to freshman next year? -Don’t be nervous and have fun. Interview by Jasmin Rose

My Dumb Thoughts

Ama Ansah

nderclassmen often marvel at how well I know this school. How I know the teachers, the secret rooms, who did what with whom, all that jazz. My answer is always the same: I’m just that awesome. While that is partly true, my vast HHS knowledge is also the result of four years of education here. As a parting gift to you, my dear underclassmen, I present to you four tips for surviving HHS. 1. Take Newsstreak Not only is journalism a great way to improve your writing, but it forces you to become more outgoing. You have to interview people who you do not know. This teaches you how to talk to strangers and make a good impression. You learn the ins and outs of the

and think about working out. I try to talk to them. I ask “what do you think of the Trayvon Martin case?” or “who do you think the Republican nominee will be?” They stare blankly at me, then talk about carbs. High school is too short to stay in one clique. Especially if that clique is boring.

2. Be nice to faculty and staff I know it is tempting to talk back to your teachers. Trust me, I know. They aren’t always right and it sometimes it seems like they just dislike you for no apparent reason. But if you are rude to one teacher, then your reputation is ruined. Teachers talk to each other about their students. If you get a reputation as a hell-raiser or disrespectful urchin, you may miss out on having a great experience with a teacher. Always be polite. Smile and nod at a teacher even if you don’t have them. Say thank you to the custodial and cafeteria staff. Give a polite nod to the administrators. It makes a difference.

4. Find something you are good at You are young. This is the time when you are supposed to explore and discover yourself. Now I am not saying you have to know exactly who you are and what you are going to do with your life by the time you graduate, but try new things in your time here. Take an art class. If you are particularly good at a subject, take an honors or AP class. Join a sports team. Take fashion marketing or yearbook or Newsstreak. Try your hand at creative writing. We have an entire class on learning to play piano, give it a try. Seriously, there are so many avenues to explore!

3. Go outside your clique I have many groups of friends. Freshman friends, theater friends, library friends, journalism friends, AP friends. Most people stay in their own group and rarely venture outside of their circle of friends. Those people are boring and closed minded. They lack perspective not just on global issues, but on issues affecting their peers. For example, I know this one group of girls who only talk about

And the best part? It’s all free. When you go off to college and have to pay $1500 per class, you will regret not seizing your high school opportunities. n

Finding identity is a challenge of adolescence

“

Politics. Simplified.

Benjamin Marks

urviving high school really isn’t a complex, crazy task to accomplish. With any degree of commitment, one can graduate. The real task is how to thrive in high school. The “find friends and just be yourself ” mantra one hears repeated over and over is quite true, but overstated. So, rather than say it again, let’s briefly examine the reasoning behind the phrase. During the teenage years, students are flooded with questions. “Who am I? What am I going to do with my life?” and the like. As Erik Erikson postulated in his thesis of the stages of psychosocial development, the two previously mentioned questions, though present throughout most of one’s life, take precedent during adolescence. High school is both the time when one solidifies one’s identity and so-

lidifies what one wants to become. This, along with the culmination of homework, extracurricular activities, and other obligations can cause an “Identity Crisis.” One of the largest problems with high school is that one is asked to commit before one’s identity is established. Because of this, adolescents are often forced to re-evaluate their sense of identity, self-worth, and accomplishment. The adolescent urge for independence also clashes with societal structure, as parental desires (Tommy would be such a good doctor!) and school structure conflict with the “freedom” to establish an identity. So, what is the solution then? Get started, and get started yesterday. One cannot overestimate the importance of identity in determining one’s future. Going into college with an undecided major is far more likely to be a waste of tens of thousands of dollars than anything. Extracurriculars, sports, friendships, should all be launched into in a “no-holds-barred” fashion. One cannot determine one’s identity without discovering likes and dislikes. Formerly boring subjects may suddenly becoming fascinating, whether it’s taking the derivative of a function or writing a computer program to do all the

One of the largest problems is that one is asked to commit before one’s identity is established... adolescents are often forced to re-evaluate their sense of identity, self-worth, and accomplishment.

“

hard work. However, the most important thing to remember is that identity is not that hard to establish. Blending in may be all well and good to boost one’s social status, but its the long haul that counts, and that’s where acting like one wants to comes in. The mantra of “being yourself ” is repeated over and over, and there is sound psychological reasoning behind it. Next time you feel the urge to “blend in,” remember that identity is a huge factor in happiness and success, and stand out. n

Freshmen remember cont... Taking a look back at those first nerveracking moments Emily Bocook What do you remember about your first day of school? -I woke up late and had 20 minutes to get ready and I was almost late. What do you remember from your first class? -I had Spanish and it was all awkward because a lot of the people were older or from Skyline, but then I made friends. What has been the coolest thing about being in high school this year?-Going to sports and the Red Sea. Also, the school isn’t as uptight as it was in middle school. What piece of advice would you give to freshman next year?: Don’t procrastinate and do your work ahead of or on time. Interview by Shannon Richard

Caleb Flynn What do you remember about the first day of school? -Not much. I was really nervous because I didn’t know anyone. I stuck to myself, and made a few friends. What do you remember about your first class? -I was sitting there when Graham Rebhun came up to me and said “Hi! I’m Graham. Like the cracker.” What’s the coolest thing about being in high school? -Definitely musical. It was a great experience and I made a bunch of friends. What piece of advice would you give to freshman nex year? -Um...good luck! Interview by Ariel Vogel.

Christa Stader What do you remember about your first day of high school? - I remember how everyone was everywhere and I was pretty confused but I had my brother with me. What was your first class? - English with Mr. Beppler. What has been the coolest thing about being in high school? - The freedom and not having to see everyone from my grade all the time. What piece of advice would you give freshmen next year? - Don’t get caught up in it all and focus on your work as well. Interview by Bryndal Fluginiti. All photos by Mia Karr.

Got an opinion? Write a letter to the editor or go to www.newsstreak.com

What’s

HOT

Getting out early School now ends June 1st, giving students a whole extra week to soak up the sun.

Prom location This year prom will be held at a very classy location: Spotswood Country Club.

SCA elections Students get a chance to have a say in their student goverenment

NFL draft This year’s draft began yesterday and continues this weekend.

College Acceptance The wall across from the library is covered with seniors’ good news.

One Direction The Brisith boy band has exploded into popularity among teenage girls.

What’s

NOT

No more Twinkies Hostess, the maker of twinkies of Wonder Bread, might be forced out of business.

Allergies Spring brings nicer weather- and a slew of problems for those with seasonal allergies.

AP Exams It’s time to hit the books for all the students taking AP courses.

Norway killer Anders Behring Breivik who killed 77 last summer claimed he would “do it again.”

Gas Prices Gas prices have been grim in Harrisonburg and elsewhere in the counrty.

The newsstreak

April 27, 2012

STYLE- Katrina Sokolyuk - A7

Stepping Out

Spring (and almost summer) is here! Time to break out those flip flops, heels, and any other stylish footwear.

Heels affect body’s balance and health Sydney Little

staff reporter

eels might make women feel better and more confident about themselves, but wearing them provides many opportunities for pain in the knees, hips, feet, and back. Wearing heels causes all of the body’s weight to be concentrated on a heel that is sometimes as small as a pencil. It affects the balance of the body and makes the calves work harder to prevent the person from falling over. “Wearing high heels on a more frequent basis can begin to cause problems, and I really try to tell any of our athletes that have injuries from the lower back down to their ankles to stay away from the high heel/platform dress shoes. It can also cause knee, hip, and lower back pain, because your body tries to overcompensate for not being very supported and being unsteady while walking in heels,” athletic trainer Jen Glazer said. According to Discover Magazine, research has been done that proves wearing high heels will damage the tendons in your legs. By looking at leg sonograms, researchers have determined that women who frequently wear two or more inch heels have shorter

“

calf muscles by 13% than Wearing high w o m e n heels on a more that don’t w e a r frequent basis can heels as begin to cause o f t e n . problems, and W h e n I really try to tell put in a s h o r t e r any of our athletes position, that have injuries... the mus- to stay aways from cle fibers in the calf high heels. -Athletic Trainer decrease in length. Jen Glazer T h e achilles’ te n d ons of women that wear heels on a daily basis become shorter and thicker and they become harder to stretch out while walking in flat shoes. Usually, the women that are experiencing this type of pain wear heels on an average of 60 hours a week. To prevent these pains, wearers should stretch often and should switch from stilettos to other types of shoes occasionally. “My opinion on women wearing high heels is that they should only wear them for special occasions,” Glazer said. n

“

How to walk in heels: with Kiah Silver

Senior Kiah Silver, is a pro when it comes to strutting in her high heels, and enjoys to wear them as often as she can. “I like wearing my heels. I know how to walk in them, and I have been in heels since I can remember.” Here are six steps Silver follows while putting her heels on, walking in them, and saving her feet from tremendous pain:

Step 1: Pick out your favorite heels and sit down. Step 2: Find something sturdy around you to pull yourself up, while finding your center of gravity at the same time. Step 3: Walk SLOWLY with one foot in front of the other as if you are walking on a straight line. This will help evenly distribute your weight while looking runway fabulous.

Step 4: If you feel yourself about to fall, don’t panic. Put your arms out by your side level to your center of gravity. Step 5: Once you are comfortable enough, you can walk faster and more freely. Step 6: After a few hours, you might want to take off your heels and relax your feet for a few minutes

Infographic by Shannon Kizner

Hunter-Nickels advocates barefoot walking

Rutherford enjoys pedicure experience

Nahla Aboutabl

Conner Whitehouse staff reporter

staff reporter

andals, heels, flats, wedges, flipflops. All of these are shoes associated with spring and summer. Walking barefoot though, is not an option. Many people are embarrassed to show their feet and are disgusted by the dirt they might step in. Others though, have no problem when it comes to walking barefoot, and even like it more that wearing shoes. There are many health benefits that have been connected to walking barefoot, yet lots of people nowadays still shy away from walking barefoot. Junior Alex-Hunter Nickels recognizes these benefits and enjoys walking barefoot for many reasons. “I question developed culture,” HunterNickels said. “Walking barefoot makes me feel more free and it helps me connect to the ground.” Scientists have in fact found that being able to “connect” with the ground while walking barefoot does yield health benefits. According to an article published by

Martin Zucker on townsendletter.com (a website dedicated to alternative medicine) walking barefoot helps people recieve some of the electric energy being emitted of of the earth’s surface. The earth’s surface energy is connected with helping people sleep better as well as it “promotes better health” (as quoted from website). Wearing shoes of course, does not connect people to this flow of energy directly. These health benefits vary depending on where a person lives and how clean the ground is in that given area. Hunter-Nickels, not aware of the possible health benefits, believes that walking barefoot does have mental benefits. “Walking barefoot is the natural thing to do, so it probably does have health benefits too,”Hunter-Nickels said. Not everybody is used to seeing people walking barefoot though, especially in developed countries. “Sometimes I get funny looks and I just smile back. I also get questions when I don’t wear shoes to school. I say I do it to raise awareness about the many children around the world that don’t have shoes.” n

Flippin n’ Floppin.

n this day in age, it is looked down upon in society for men to get pedicures. I too once thought this way, but my eyes were opened in just one trip. This simple staple in female pampering has been off-limits to males for far too long. One winter day, after hours of convincing, senior Joanna Hernandez, persuaded junior and football player Hayden Rutherford and I to get manicures with her. Upon arriving at Holly Nails, Rutherford and I grew nervous from the large posters of women and rows of nail polish that lined the walls. After a short wait, a petite woman took me to her table and began to soak my hands in a perfumed hand bath. Then, she trimmed my nails and clipped back my cuticles. No polish was

No summer wardrobe is complete without a few pairs of flip flops. Check out what styles and prices are right for you! The Prep:

-Rainbows: These summer staples are ubiquitous at HHS, and last for summers on end. Rainbow sandals are notorious for being long-lasting and super comfortable.

$50

-Sperry’s: This brand of nautical footwear is famous for its topsiders and boat shoes, but their flip flops are equally adorable, and preppy as ever.

$50

The Beach-goer:

-Old Navy: These flip flops are goto classics, and come in literally every shade on the color spectrum. Old Navy’s 2 for $5 sale on flip flops might as well be a national day of celebration.

$3.95

-Mossimo, Target: These sandals cover the three C’s to finding the perfect pair of flip flops: cute, comfortable, and cheap.

$10

used of course, and the process ended with sticking my hands into a vat of hot scented wax which formed warm gloves around my hands. Hayden received the same treatment and loved it. “The massage was really relaxing, it just calms you down,” Rutherford said. As I waited for Joanna to finish, I saw Linn, the lady that took care of me, begin to massage the calves of a woman with minty lotion. I was instantly enamored. Massages are one of my favorite things in life, and this pedicure process bases itself around this magical treatment. Of course you get your nails trimmed and cuticles cleaned up if you wish. The massage and foot bath are the highlights of this process. The joys of having your most used muscles massaged with the pleasant scent of mint filling your nose is something that no man should be forced to

The Athlete:

-Adidas: The cushy soles of these popular flip flops provide extreme comfort and breathability for tired feet.

$32

-Nike: Athletes of all sports should take advantage of this airy footwear. The cushioning gel sole is similar to that of Adidas, but at a lower price.

$25

go on without. “I would totally get a pedicure, the massage looks awesome,” Rutherford said at the time. The process was something that I had to feel for myself, so I returned a few weeks later to get my massage. This time, I was pleased to see two other separate parties of respectable-looking guys. The addition of testosterone made me feel better about the experience. I was serenaded by gentle pop music as my feet soaked in the bubbling bath and my problems washed away. It sounds like a dove chocolate commercial, but these emotions are real. I think that the stereotype of only women getting pedicures should be abolished, men deserve the pleasures of them. Not for the nail work, but for the massage. Athletes should especially take advantage because of the therapeutic leg massages. They’re much cheaper than a full massage. n

The Hippie:

-Chaco: Outdoorsmen (and women) should take advantage of these light sandals made by the popular Colorado-based outdoor performance footwear manufacturer.

$60

-Birkenstock:The earthy vibe and ridiculous comfort of these shoes make up for the high price tag of these popular German-made shoes.

$80

April 27, 2012

Best Classes

The newsstreak

History

2012

AP European History

for

“I struggled with [AP Euro] a lot but I’m really glad I took it. I have a bigger understanding of the world now that I’ve taken it.” ~Senior Kari King

US History “They’re always new topics being thrown at us. Also Mr. Tueting always keeps us involved, by making everything interesting.” ~Junior Camden Hill

Scheduling season. HHS’s upperclassmen share the knowl-

edge of classes they have gained through their four years and counselors give some important facts about requirements.

Math

Science

AP Statistics

AP Bio

“AP Stats is a class you shouldnt miss during high school because it puts a course like math into real life applacations.” ~Senior Will Turner

“I want to be a nurse, so it’s going to be helpful. It is really interesting, but the tests are really hard.” ~Senior Bethany Showalter

AP Calculus

AP Physics (online)

“AP Calculus because it’s important and it gets you ready for college” ~ Senior Corey Stader

“AP Physics was so hard, and i’m not finished with it yet, but it’s definitely a valuable use of your time.” ~Senior Howard Zuo

Electives

English

Cooking

“I loved cooking, and eating. I learned how to cook for myself.” ~Junior Brad Johnson

AP English Language I took this class because I wanted to study deeper on how the English language works since I am a bilingual person. That really makes it interesting. ~Senior John Lee

Art I “I hadn’t originally planned to take it, but I loved it and I was actually upset that I took it in my sophomore year, because then I couldn’t take all the courses I wanted to in art, since I started later. It was my cool and relaxing class.” ~Senior Kari King

Newsstreak “It’s a fun environment where you learn different things that aren’t in any other classes.” ~Junior Sam Martin

Required Credits

STYLE- Rafael Snell-Feikema - A8

Sports Marketing “ I love sports and everything about them. It was a really interesting class, and it’s one that I really looked forward to every time i had it” ~Senior Kyle Knight

Advanced Diplomas, 2011 and beyond

English

Mathematics

Science

History

Foreign Languages

Health & P.E.

New Classes for 2012-13 Class

Credit

AP Macroeconomics

personal finance

AP Studio Art

fine arts

Ceramics

fine arts

AP Calc II

mathematics

Fine Arts

Ecology

science

Teachers for Tomorrow

elective

Personal Finance

DE Kinesiology

elective

Electives

Debate Honors

elective

Total

Spanish I for Heritage Speakers

foriegn language

Sports and Games

elective

Q&A with Guidance Counselor Amy Powers

6. What classes are most important for students’ general education?

1. What classes do you think students should go through before college?

We definitely encourage students to take as many above level classes as possible so that they may be better prepared for the upcoming courses they will take in college.

2. How does this help students in the long run when looking at college opportunities, or how does this benefit the students in the long run? I think that taking the more advanced courses here in High School will allow them to be better prepared especially when looking at the level of classes. It is the rigor of the classes that prepares them for what classes in college will actually be like. So high school acts as an introduction when considering the level of classes that are taken in college.

Any class that helps studnets develop their interest or develop an interest in a career field. It’s important to give a good variety to students. Don’t get too caught up with GPA -- it’s good to have variety instead so that later in life you have the education to make well-rounded life decisions.

7. What prerequisites are important to remember to take?

Some of the AP science classes require classes beforehand, like AP Chemistry needs Honors Chemistry first. It doesn’t follow the normal naming where normal/Honors/AP is diffficulty, so it can be confusing. It’s also good to know what the off-campus classes, like MTC, want -- they can have hidden prerequistes.

8. What is your overall advice to students in choosing classes?

Think about the opportunities available and not just about meeting requirements. A lot is lost by thinking “I want to be done” and taking the easy route instead of using all these valuable class opportunities. Take them while you’re here. Challenge yourself in your interests -- it’s important.

3. Do you and the rest of the HHS faculty and staff look to send everyone out for further education such as College or do you base their possibili- 9. Should one spread out and find interests or follow a specific path? Given the amount of opportunity available for credits until you graduate, there’s ties of succeeding in college off their SOL and SAT scores? That is our goal, is to send every student out to College. That is our end result goal as we believe that college is available to everyone, and the classes you take here are very accessible yet at the same time is made available to make everyone as aware as possible.

room for you to explore. If a student knows early on what they want to be, then they should focus on that path and take the specifiic classes that enables them to. That being said, most students don’t know and so taking a variety is imporant to gind that interest and the subjects that they’re good at.

10. Is it better to get a low grade in an honors or AP class or a higher grade in a normal class? I do believe that every student has the chance to succeed, it comes down to the Colleges look at your core academic classes. They also want the information on what the highest level available is. Also, they factor in the grade students willingness to take the courses that are provided. you’ve received - A ‘D’ in an honors class won’t do you any good. Yes, it’s 5. When looking to choose a college what do you think students should good to challenge yourself, but challenge yourself in classes you have an interest in -- you can’t do well in something you don’t care about. Really, be looking at? A lot of research is done with the family, however we can meet up with the stu- this decision depends on the student, but in general: if it’s your only hondents to help narrow it down Cheryl Logan is our Career Coach here at Harri- ors class, you need to do well. Its more important that you have a general sonburg and her job is to help students determine the career they would like to strength in all the classes you’re taking. 4. Do you think everyone here at Harrisonburg High School has a chance to succeed in college?

go into and from there again help narrow it down.

YOU!

CAN BE AWESOME. WRITE FOR THE NEWSSTREAK.

April 27, 2012

The

newsstreak

ADS - A9

LESS SPRING CLEANING...

We’re The Perfect Fit!

MORE TIME FOR YOU! • *A Lif etime War ranty on all materials and labor

Acrylic

for as long as you own your home.

• Our unique, one-piece seamless wall system can

is easy to clean & lasts a lifetime!*

be installed right over your existing wall.

• Custom made acrylic bathtubs installed over your

existing unit-all in one day!

• We replace fiber glass ba thtubs and of fer

tub-to-shower conversions, too.**

$450 off

In Your Bvest In a With Ythroom our

tax reb ate!

Promotional Code: 2881 Offer Expires: 5/31/2012 Must be presented and used at time of estimate only. May not be combined with other offers or applied to previous purchases. Valid only at select locations.

call today for your free in-home estimate!

1-800-594-8776 **Tub to Shower conversions and replacement tubs generally require a two-day installation. Fixtures and features may be different than pictured. Accessories pictured are not included. Plumbing work done by P.U.L.S.E. Plumbing Richard D. Reustle Jr. NJ MPL #10655 MHIC #122356 VAHIC #2705096759A WV Contractors #038808 DC #2324XXXX-66007284 PAHIC #17017 IA C#112725 Each Franchise Independently Owned And Operated By Ohio Bath Solutions, LLC

e l g Ea CARPET

“Since 1966”

Proudly Serving the Shenandoah Valley For 43 Years LOCALLY OWNED & OPERATED

HARDWOOD * MARBLE * CERAMIC TILE * VINYL * LAMINATE FLOORING * QUICK STEP LAMINATE * ARMSTRONG * CONGOLEUM * MOHAWK * TARKETT

* BRUCE * HARTCO * BR-111 * SHAW * BEAULIEU * WILSONART

FREE ESTIMATES

SALES - INSTALLATIONS - BINDING - CASH & CARRY INSTOCK INVENTORY “WHERE THE CONTRACTORS $ BUILDERS BUY” Hours: M-F 8-5 * Sat 8-1 434-1818 www.eaglecarpetsinc.com

“Largest Floor Covering Store in the Valley” 1188 Port Republic Road Harrisonburg

Last day of school is now June 1! Study for your exams!

April 27, 2012

The

newsstreak

STYLE- Chris Sokolyuk - A10

Who says men can’t cook?

Breakfast Special Fry six pieces of bacon in a frying pan. After the bacon is done to your liking fry two more eggs in the same pan. Pop the yoke so the egg isn’t runney and melt two pieces of cheese on top of each egg. After the cheese is melted get your two pieces of toast and start stacking. I place an egg down then three peices of the bacon and then start the stacking process over again.

Pork Chops

Shrimp Oyster Po-Boy Dip your oysters and shrimp into flour, then a cracker and mix for a breaded crust. After this, fry the oysters and shrimp in a pan of cooking oil. Once your seafood has a brown crust, remove the seafood and place in on your bread roll. Also, place lettuce and tomato on your bread roll at your own degression along with a portion of mayo.

These thick slices need to be cooked at 400 degrees for around 20 minutes in order to get a good crust on the outside while still moist on the inside. Before going on the grill, mix Lawry’s Seasoned Salt, pepper and paprika all over the chop. Cook the chop for about 5 minutes a side for 20 to 25 minutes.

Burke becomes the man in the kitchen through home-ec Ben DiNapoli

Squeaky clean Sophomore Shane Burke cleans off a grill after a few hours of use. Photo by Ben DiNapoli

sports editor

ome Economics is a generally know as a cooking class, and also typically a girl’s class. The purpose of it is to prepare you for when you might have to cook on your own in the future and become self-sufficient, making the class usually come hand in hand with girls. However, the trend for who signs up for the class is changing, and now, more than ever, an abundance of boys have started participating. Sophomore Shane Burke is in his first year of Home Economics, and he says it is an interesting experience. “At first, I just took the class because I

“

thought it Mrs. Smith usually works out a plan would be an for each meal, and then sets the stueasy A and I have found out dents free. it would that I actually “I enjoy making creative dishes for my help out my enjoy cooking... I taste buds,” Burke said. “So far, my faGPA,” Burke vorite dish has been pizza. It was delienjoy making cresaid. cious,” he added. A l t h o u g h ative dishes for my Even as one of the boys in a stereotypia valid rea- taste buds. cally girl-based class, Burke has not reson, Burke’s any odd comments or remarks -Sophomore ceived attitude about being in Home Ec. Shane Burke “The class is pretty chill, so it doesn’t towards cooking has really matter if you’re a boy or girl. We started to change. all just cook and have fun,” Burke said. “I have found out that I actually enjoy As fun as the class is this year, Burke does cooking,” Burke said. not believe that he will be taking the class Throughout the year, the course cooks a again in the upcoming school year. n wide variety of food. Home Ec. teacher

Ross becomes a “Grill Master” Chris Sokolyuk

style editor

oon summer will be here with days full of relaxation, fun, and the smell of barbecue will waft through the air. Junior Robby Ross has especially enjoys the art of barbecuing. “I love the sizzling sound of the meat, and the thick smell of the grill.” Ross said. Ross and his dad have enjoyed grilling together ever since Ross could walk, he was always standing at the grill side watching and learning. Ross admits that he is not the best griller in town but he is still trying to perfect. “We get our family barbecue sauce from a lone of Ross’s, the recipi is passed down to every generation.” Ross said. Not everyone will barbecue the same way, every family has its own ways to grill.

“Whenever Robby came to the tailgate before the football games, he always had his little grill with him.” Senior Milo Nuncio said. You can spot Ross from a distance sitting with his little grill. “I love my little grill, I can just toss it in- the back of the truck and BAMB we have a tailgate.”Ross said. Ross is not the only master chef in Harrisonburg High, Junior Sam Strickler has been grilling up every summer with his family. “I love grilling it makes me feel like a real man” Strickler said. Strickler learned all of his grilling from his dad, who is the main cook when it come to the grill. “When I was in second grade, I was supposed to go and get the grill warmed up for the food.”Strickler said. Grilling is actually a little more adrenaline pumping than it sounds. “I have had my fair share of excitement. One time, I singed my eyebrows pretty badly” Ross said. Ross

was turning on his dad’s propane grill one day and he did not open the cover. After a few seconds, a large ball of flammable gas was forming the cover. “As soon as I let the spark go, a ball of flames came right at me.” Ross has learned his lesson. “What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger” Ross said. Both Strickler and Ross have learned how to be such skillful grill gurus from their family. “The Ross family has their own marinade” Ross said. The Ross family has a special sauce that is not allowed to be read by anyone other than members from the family. “We call it New Orleans Marinade, it has a little bit of red wine and something called key lime spice that we have to order separately” Ross said. “Grilling is more than just putting stuff on a hot metal grill, it involves personality and skill.” Strickler said

“

Do women like a man who can cook? Senior Nyclette Kahiendo “It is more attractive, you don’t always have to be in the kitchen cooking, I just don’t feel girls should be stereotyped as chefs.”

Sophomore Jazlyn Sanchez “ I think that it is great for guys to be talented, it means that I do not have cook as much. Men are more unique and different if they know how to cook.”

What’s your favorite rub or marinade for grilling? Senior Brady Cockerham

Lemon Pepper seasoning is the best. Putting it on any kind of chicken gives it a pop along with a serious spice.

Junior Robby

Ross

Old Bay and this Crab Boil seasoning is great on any kind of fish or seafood. It always has quite a kick so be ready for a little spice.

P.E. Teacher Kevin Tysinger

You can’t go wrong with a black pepper and Lawry’s seasoning on a streak or any kind of pork or beef. FIYAPOWA. A charcoal grill is the grill of choice by many so called “grill master” like Ross. Photo by Mitch DePoy

infographic by Vanessa Ehrenpreis

Do you...

a) like to write b) consider yourself creative c) want to be famous d) all of the above.

Did you answer a, b, c, or d? Join Newsstreak.

Green

April 27, 2012

The

newsstreak

Spring

FEATURE - Mark Duda - B1

Horticulture class blends agriculture, art, business dents here can plan their living as the sun crawls past the greenRafael Snell-Feikema art works that grow through their house and hits the solar panel on style editor newfound knowledge of plants, the tile’s side.

alk through the JMU arboretum. Here are flowers delicately arranged, a recreation of an especially prolific forest created for the public’s enjoyment. Outside of Harrisonburg, farms sprawl, growing for the most part edible plants. Both of these somewhat contrasting pictures are described by the concept of horticulture. As Wikipedia will tell you, horticulture is not only a science but also an art, a technology, and a business. The Horticulture class, lead by Earth Science teacher Gini Greenlaw, just this year started a series of garden plots near the school greenhouse. Through this addition, a class is created that not only teaches the science of botany and the business of selling the plants, but also the artistic output found in landscaping. Landscaping is thus a segue between science and art. The stu-

the results of tireless hours in the greenhouse experimenting and learning. “My goal is for [these students] to learn two things: to be able to grow vegetables for food and to be able to grow gardens for themselves. I tell them ‘Feed your body and feed your soul’,” Greenlaw said. Each garden is designed by a team of these students; each has a separate theme. This display has taken a drastic transformation from last year, a disorganized area of garden and grass changed to mulched pathways with raised beds. Several vegetable gardens are spotted throughout, so far just empty plots of dirt as vegetables cannot yet be planted. A bulb garden sits near the corner, alive with huge and colorful blooms. A rock garden and a Japanese garden are here too: less traditional forms still appreciated. The most recent addition is a water garden: lilies float in a fountain which awakens

“It’s been really good for this class to design their own garden, and be fully responsible for it,” Greenlaw said. The students, including senior Jesse Wooddell, enjoy the sense of individuality allowed in this course. “You get to make it how you want it. It’s pretty cool. This is my favorite class,” Wooddell said. Not only is creativity an important part of the course’s appeal to its students, but the hands-on classroom-free setting is appreciated as well. Junior Dawn Harris, another student in the class, agrees. “The gardens are great. It’s really fun to work on them and fix them up,” Harris said. This class is not funded and is only made solvent by the plant sale at the end of the year. This sale, which the students and teacher extol the virtues of, is May 5 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. n

Making it rain Junior Erick Luna waters plants in the greenhouse as part of the horticulture class.

School experiences temperature problems Above: Rows of plants in the greenhouse. Left: Senior Neil Hammond packs soil down to prepare the plant.

Above: A student prepares pots and containers for planting in the greenhouse. Right: Horticulture teacher Gini Greenlaw works on plants in the greenhouse that will be sold at the class’s plant sale on May 5. All photos by Ana Hunter-Nickels

Envirothon team places second at district competition Mark Duda

managing editor

very year, the day of the Envirothon competition has snow, according to coach Adam Goble. This doesn’t sound too odd- except that the competition is in early April. “Last year it started out really wet and windy, then it got sunny for a while, and then out of nowhere it started snowing,” Goble said. “It snowed again this year, but it was cold all day.” The team placed 2nd in the district competition, with the regional competition taking place Wednesday, April 24. Envirothon is a competition that includes a series of tests on environmental areas, including wildlife, forestry, aquatics, soil, and an issue that changes every year- low impact develop-

ment this year. Competitions are held at public parks and universities throughout the state, with competitions at a local, regional, state, and national level. Five team members collaborate on the tests, which are timed, with the goal of achieving the highest overall score. Goble believes the team is particularly strong in wildlife, aquatics and forestry, areas where the team has specialists returning from last year’s team, which finished 7th in the state. Soils traditionally are the team’s weakest point, Goble believes, although he has high hopes for specialist junior Ellie Pruett-Fiederlein. In addition, the team must present a plan to solve a certain case study on that year’s issue. Since the issue this year is storm water runoff management and low impact development, the team has been developing a solution to a community in northern Virginia’s runoff problems. Junior Sam Martin, a first time participant,

Hunter plans Earth Day Rally Sam Martin

staff reporter

he month of April is filled with green activity. Spring is beginning to bloom, Earth Day is sandwiched in the middle of the month on the 21st, and Arbor Day finishes out the “Green” month on the 27th. With the all the warm weather Harrisonburg has been experiencing, there is plenty to be thankful to mother nature for. However we incessantly pull out mother nature’s hair by polluting our streams and skies, wasting raw materials, and constantly relying on petroleum and natural gas products to power our lives. So, in the spirit of the green month, junior Alex Hunter-Nickels has decided to make a difference. Hunter-Nickels, freshman Abe Nouri and senior Gwen Elwood are organizing a nonprofit rally to

promote awareness of ecological issues. Taking place on April 21 (Earth Day) these three students will be running the “Sit With Us” awareness rally. When Hunter-Nickels first noticed the absence of an event on Earth Day, he wanted to do something to fill the spot. “It just seemed odd for there to be nothing happening on Earth Day, when awareness should be at its most,” Hunter-Nickels said. Being moved by a protest against the Dominion Power electric company, which is currently being sued for its use of hydrofracking, he decided to run his own awareness event here in Harrisonburg. “I would love to see a youth majority at this event,” HunterNickels said. “I think it’s time for our generation to step up and make a change for the better, providing a brighter future for our planet.” n

took a leading role in the team’s case study. “We started by assessing the problem, like where the runoff was heading now, and where there was erosion and flooding happening. Then we figured out what LIDs [low impact developments] we needed to put in to manage it better,” Martin said. “The hard part is figuring out the costs and funding of the project, which is what I focused on a lot. Then there was outreach and marketing, where we had to plan out how we were going to let [the community] allow us to come in and put these LIDs in and what partnerships we were going to make for funding.” After the competition, Martin wasn’t satisfied with the team’s performance. “It didn’t go too well. Our presentation wasn’t well rehearsed since one of our team members couldn’t make the competition,” Martin said. The team placed first in several individual areas, including aquatics and forestry. n

Celia Ehrenpreis feature editor

ust walking down the HHS staircase you can feel a dramatic change in the temperature. It is at least ten degrees cooler on the ground level of the school in comparison to the upper floor. The problem revolves around the two main cooling engines that work to keep the school’s temperature in check. Both entities broke a few weeks back, affecting the climate within the building dramatically. Sophomore Evan Yoder noticed a considerable difference in the school’s temperature. “The foreign language hallway was ridiculously hot for a while, but the whole bottom level of the school was really cold,” Yoder said. New parts were obtained to fix one of the broken cooling systems, accounting for the more level temperatures throughout the school. The second set of parts are still missing for the other cooler but en route. In the meantime some students are learning to deal with the problematic temperatures, like sophomore Michelle Waligora. “When the temperature started to fluctuate I started to dress more in layers, I would bring a sweater to lunch and P.E.,” Waligora said. Although, Junior Caitlin Kelley has noticed a recent improvement in the school’s climate. “The math classrooms used to be really stuffy but I have definitely noticed an improvement in temperature,” Kelley said. n

History of Earth Day 1969: Gaylord Nelson, US Senator from Wisconsin, calls for an environmental teachin, or “Earth Day”, inspired by a horrific oil spill near Santa Barbara, Calif. An estimated 12,000 high schools and 2,000 colleges participate. 1970: A Harvard graduate student, Denis Hayes, reads an article on the teach-in, and is motivated to organize the first April 22 Earth Day. The protest takes off as a grassroots movement, gathering over an estimated 20 million participants. 1990: Jim Whittaker, the first American to summit Mount Everest, leads the Earth Day

20 International Peace Climb, marking the first time that climbers from the U.S., Soviet Union, and China summitted together. The climb collected over two tons of trash from the mountain. 2000: Earth Day participation rises drastically as a result of the advent of the Internet. Actor Leonardo di Caprio hosts an event on the National Mall in Washington, DC, that draws over 400,000 participants. 2007: Earth Day skyrockets in popularity overseas, drawing over a billion participant in countries across six continents.

April 27, 2012

The

newsstreak

FEATURE - Sydney Little and Celia Ehrenpreis- B2

POWER COUPLES at Work

Maurizio & Sheila Antonnicola

Chris & Melisa Thurman

Antonnicolas first married couple at HHS

Thurmans experience a decade of working together

Met in 1985, have been together for 25 years. Both have worked at HHS for 27 years HHS. Molly Denman “The staff reporter w h o l e The whole famaurizio and Sheila Antonnicola f a m i l y ily is here, and met at work in 1985 when they is here we can always were both hired as teachers at and we can alget in touch with HHS. Maurizio was hired to teach marketing and Sheila, to teach English. ways get eachother if we The two began dating shortly after starting in touch need to. work at HHS and were married two years with each - Maurizio later in 1987. Twenty four years after their other if Antonnicola marriage, they are still together and teaching we need to,” Mauthe same subjects. Maurizio and Sheila were the first teachers r i z i o in the Harrisonburg City Public Schools sys- A n t o n tem to be married and work within the same nicola said . Junior Giancarlo Antonnicola views havschool building. Prior to their marriage there ing his parents work at HHS as a positive was a nepotism clause, so Maurizio and Sheithing. Although Maurizio and Sheila do not la went to the superintendent and secured permission to get married and continue in see each other during the school day, Giancarlo Antonnicola sees both parents in the their positions. “We broke the mold. We were the first to hallways between classes. He has never taken get married and violate the clause,” Sheila a class with either of his parents and does not plan on it next year. Antonnicola said. “I don’t have to worry about rides, because Although the two work at the same school, my mom usually takes me to school,” Gianthey do not see each other during the day. carlo Antonnicola said. Their schedules are different, so can not eat However, because Giancarlo Antonnicola’s lunch or take breaks together, but if there is ever a problem they are not far away from parents are both teachers and are at the same school as him, they are always on top of him, each other. Not only do Maurizio and Sheila work at making sure he gets his work done and that n HHS together, they also have a son that attends he keep his grades up.

“

Meet in 2002, have been together for 3 years. This is their first year at HHS. they had already been teaching for nine Alexis Dickerson years together. They have never taught staff reporter the same subject, but have always worked n April 1, Chris and Melisa at the same school. This is their first year Thurman celebrated their at HHS, Mr. Thurman is teaching Special three year anniversary. They Ed and coaching the blue streaks football first met while teaching at team. Mrs. Thurman is currently teaching Gretna middle school. Mr. Thurman was MTC English 11 and 12, she also helps an 8th grade World History teacher and the football players with homework after Mrs. Thurman was an 8th grade English school. “If it weren’t for her taking the time to teacher. Mr. Thurman explains, “She taught next help our football players during study hall, door, and would always come in to bother our football team would be in big trouble me; she wouldn’t leave me alone.” Mrs. grade wise,” Mr. Thurman said. Although working within the same school does have Thurman laughs but disagrees. When the Thurmans first started to its cons. “The only thing I don’t like about workdate, she was the cheerleading coach, ing together is that if I were to do somewhile he was the football coach. Together thing to make her mad, she doesn’t have to they coached track for four to five years at the middle school. This is the first year wait to get home and yell at me. But, all in all, if I ever need her, she’s right there and they have not coached a sport together. “It was really fun coaching together that is a great thing,” Mr. Thurman said. “The fact that we are with each other because she had expertise in areas like jumping and hurdling, and I was more of all the time [at work and home] has its the throwing and shot put type of coach. pros and cons, but we have always worked Having her around as another coach was well together, and that is important,” Mrs. Thurman said. “[In my mind] it would be nice,“ Mr. Thurman said. n Before the Thurman’s came to HHS, strange not to work with him.”

Bradley & Cara Walton

Tim & Tricia Cummings

Met in 1991, have been together for 21 years. At HHS for 12 and 15 years respectively. Met in 2000, have been married for 11 years. Both teach math at HHS (Tricia Algebra 1&2, Tim, substitutes.

Cummings both enjoy teaching math at HHS Kavya Beheraj

news editor

ath teacher Tricia Cummings met her husband, Tim Cummings, at an Oktoberfest in 2000. He was, and still is, an

importer. “He imports sterling silver jewelry, and he also imported products for Girl Scouts, for the incentive programs,” Cummings said. “I was a math teacher, when we met. I actually had just started teaching at Harrisonburg High School.” Tricia Cummings teaches Honors Algebra 2 and Algebra 1, and Tim works as a substitute teacher around HCPS. “When he subs, he prefers to sub in math, biology, or history. But math is really where I think Tim’s happiest,” Tricia Cumminngs said. Tricia Cummings enjoys working with her husband occasionally. “A major pro is I get to see him [during the workday], which is wonderful,” Cummings said.

Tricia Cummings became a math teacher primarily because of the influence of math teacher she had in the seventh grade. “That’s when I decided I wanted to be a math teacher because I wanted to be just like her,” Tricia Cummings said. Tim Cummings prefers substitute teaching, although he tried a long-term sub position before that was similar to becoming a classroom teacher. “He actually considered full-time teaching, but he did a twelve week long-term sub job for Ms. Greenlaw and he just found that day in and day out with some students who were completely unmotivated just really frustrated him,” Cummings said. “He loves to learn, and so he can’t fathom why some just don’t care.” However, Tricia Cummings enjoys classroom teaching for those challenging students. “It’s frustrating when students aren’t motivated, but quite honestly, those are the students who motivate me most to become a better teacher,” Tricia Cummings said. “And my job is most rewarding when I can motivate students who typically aren’t motivated.”

Vanessa Ehrenpreis

editor-in-chief

t was, quite literally, love at first sight. Bradley, then 19 and Cara Walton, then 16 met at a community pool in the summer of 1991 in Natural Bridge, Virginia, and have been together ever since (21 years, 16 of them married). “The day after we met I was telling my friends I met the girl I was going to marry. That would have been embarrassing if I wasn’t right,” Walton said chuckling. Over the past 20 years the pair has grown closer. Both admit that they have changed since they first met, but that their general “trajectory” is intertwined and upward. “We’ve basically grown up together, more grown into each other over time,” Cara said. “There’s no one I’d rather be with [than Bradley], we’re one of those cutesy disgusting couples.” Cara began working at HHS in 1997, and Bradley joined her in 2000. While many people may be apprehensive about entering any workplace with a spouse, the Waltons consider it a beneficial part of their relationship. Working together

at HHS allows them to see each other throughout the day, and build a mutual understanding about “It gives us something to talk about. We have a common understanding of our workplace, which allows us to talk about specific situations if we’ve had a bad day. It builds empathy,” Cara said. The Waltons sympathize for their daughter, Rachel, who is now a fifth grader at Skyline Middle School and will attend Harrisonburg High in upcoming years. “I feel bad for any kids who go to a school where both of their parents work,” Cara said. Bradley hopes that he and Cara will remain together for the foreseeable future, but is aware of the inevitable fact that people change. “I’m cognisant of the fact that people change over time. I honestly can’t imagine my life without Cara, but there’s always that small chance,” Bradley said. Cara, however, is confident that the pair will continue to be as happy as they are now. “We’re going to be that old couple that’s holding hands walking through the park.”

Shop (540) 289-6600 Cell (540) 478-3533

10279 McGaheysville Road McGaheysville, VA 22840 John Nyman

E-mail: elktonjohn@comcast.net

Awwwww! Cara and Bradley Walton snuggle up for a photo in the summer of 1991. The pair have been together for 21 years. Photos courtesy of Cara Walton.

September April 27, 2012 23, 2011

The

newsstreak

FEATURE FEATURE-- Paulina Rendon - B3

A spotlight on interesting animals that belong to students and faculty

around HHS

Knapp’s childhood pets include turkeys, turtle

Chris Sokolyuk

feature editor

hen one person is walking down the halls of Harrisonburg High school and they are talking about pet turkeys, most people are interested. “Most people have pet cats or dogs, I have a pet turtle and turkeys.” Sophomore Knapp said. One day Knapp was sitting at home when he received a phone call from his friend asking him to take care of his pet turtle. “I didn’t exactly accept it with open hands, he said it was going to die and I didn’t want that to happen.” Knapp said. Turtles are not very energetic animals most of the day they spend just wallow-

ing around, turtles are always on the move to find a new water source where they can live. “My turtle, Shelly, just walks in circles around the tank. He will walk and walk for hours until he realizes that he has made no progress.” Knapp said. Knapp has had Shelly for two years, if these two companions were to be separated Knapp has faith that Shelly will find a nice home somewhere. “If someone stole Shelly I would say, oh no someone took Shelly. And then I would live through that hard time in my life.” Knapp said. “One day my dad came home with a large box, and he said that no one is supposed to look inside until tomorrow.” Knapp said. The next day Knapp’s father came home with five eggs, opened the box and placed

the eggs inside. In the box was an incubator. “When my mom saw the eggs she freaked out, she couldn’t believe that we were going to have turkeys hatching in our living room.” Knapp said. After a couple of weeks the eggs began to hatch, one by one little turkeys began to enter the world. “I loved the turkeys, they were so cool, they had a very low maintenance requirement.” Knapp said. The turkeys were hatched in the center of Harrisonburg, the turkeys were born in captivity but lived like they were wid. When the three hens and one gobbler turned into teenage turkeys they began to roam freely through the neighborhood. During the day they went around the

ter’s evaporating, so they have to keep putting clean water in. We change the water once a month, and we only change about a third each time,” Harris said. “The math classes measured it for us one year, so we know how big it is. We only change about 42 gallons each time.” The water has to be prepared several days ahead of time. It sits out until the chlorine is gone, and then the students fix the salinity by measuring the salt and mixing it into the water. They then focus on warming it to the right temperature to match the temperature of the water already in the tank. “The students measure the salt, then get the temperature right. It has to be 78 degrees before they put it in there,” Harris said. Senior Roselyn Lake took Oceanography freshman year. She took care of the fish by cleaning the tank and making sure that the fish were fed. Once freshman year ended, she decided to come back and help Harris

whenever she had free time. “I make sure to feed the fish before I clean [the tank] because they bite me, and it’s painful,” Lake said. “The clown fish bit Ms. Harris once.” Lake enjoys helping out Harris because she enjoys how interesting and diverse the fish are. Because they are so different from humans, she liked to observe their behaviors and actions while she was in oceanography, and continues watching them while she helps take care of the tank. “I fell in love with the class, and the tank,” Lake said. “I like Ms. Harris, she’s a nice person.” Whenever Lake has free time at the end of class or during study hall before track, she goes to Harris’ classroom and makes sure all the fish in the tank are well-fed and the tank is clean. n

neighborhood and terrorized the neighbors, they also pooped on their lawns. Sadly the turkeys did not last long in the city, one was wounded by a local cat and the others were sent away onto a farm. “Our neighbor is a grumpy old man who got mad a the turkeys for harassing his dogs and pooping in his yard, so he called the cops on us.” Knapp said. “I miss them, they all had their own personality, each turkey would act differently and they were cooler than my turtle.” Knapp said. Knapp always loved animals, he has had two dogs, one turtle, five turkeys,and is hoping for something else interesting. Dogs are a man’s best friend, and turkeys are a boys dream come true. n

Oceanography students responsible for maintaining fish tank Paulina Rendon

feature editor

ince the new school has been built, the science hallway has been home to a vast array of fish. The fish live in the 150 gallon fish tank next to Victoria Harris’ Oceanography room on the first floor of HHS. Harris and her class are in charge of taking care of the fish in the tank. For the most part, taking care of the tank is the responsibility of the students in Oceanography. “All the students have a specific job they do each nine weeks,” Harris said. “They get a lab grade for that job, and they sign up for four jobs each year.” Students are able to sign up for different jobs - fish feeding, salinity/pH checking, or checking how much water has evaporated. “[They] check the water because the wa-

FAMOUS PETS THROUGHOUT HISTORY

Garfield is an animated orange tabby cat who made his debut on June 19, 1978 in a comic strip. Since appearing in the comic, Garfield has additionally shown up in a brief television commercial, the several TV series, and two live-action films. Seabiscuit was a champion Thoroughbred racehorse in the United States during the Great Depression. A small horse, Seabiscuit quickly became a symbol of hope during the 1930s because of his inauspicious start to his racing career. Seabiscuit was the subject of a 1949 movie, The Story of Seabiscuit; a 2001 book, Seabiscuit: An American Legend; and a 2003 film, Seabiscuit, which was nominated for Best Picture. A statue of Seabiscuit was installed at Santa Anita Racetrack, and on June 23, 2007, a statue of Seabiscuit was unveiled at Ridgewood Ranch. Ham the Astrochimp was the first chimpanzee launched into outer space in the American Space Program. Ham’s name is an acronym for the lab that prepared him for his historic mission: the Holloman Aerospace Medical Center, located in New Mexico. Ham was born in 1956 in Cameroon. He was captured by animal trappers and sent to Rare Bird Farm in Miami. He was purchased by the United States Air Force. Barney Bush, often referred to as the “First Dog,” is a scottish terrier owned by former president George W. Bush and First Lady Laura Bush. Barney was born on September 30, 2000 in New Jersey. Barney has starred in eleven film productions made by the White House staff.

Dogs

Cats

Pet People By The Numbers

Birds

Garold “Gary” Wilson Snail, Jr. is a fictional character in the animated sitcom Spongebob Squarepants. He is a sea snail designed by Stephen Hillenburg and voiced by Tom Kenny who lives with Spongebob in his pineapple house as his pet.

Fish face. The fish tank in the science hallway is taken care of by Victoria Harris’ Oceanography class. Photo by Paulina Rendon.

Percentage of households owning: 32.4% Number of households owning: 37,460,000 Average number owned per households: 2.2 Total number in United States: 81,721,000 Veterinary expenditure per household per year (mean): $190 Vetinary expenditure per animal (mean): $81 Percentage of households owning: 37.2% Number of households owning: 43,021,000 Average number owned per households: 1.7 Total number in United States: 72,114,00 Veterinary expenditure per household per year (mean): $356 Vetinary expenditure per animal (mean): $200 Percentage of households owning: 3.9% Number of households owning: 4,453,000 Average number owned per households: 2.5 Total number in United States: 11,199,000 Veterinary expenditure per household per year (mean): $25 Vetinary expenditure per animal (mean): $9 Infographic by Paulina Rendon

Trainer shares tips for dogs owners Anastasiya Kalyuk staff reporter

hen getting ready to buy a pet, there are many things to consider. Deciding how to divide the responsibility between different family members is an important step. Another important aspect to consider when getting a pet, specifically a dog, is to find out how the animal is going to be trained. Training a dog takes consistency. Expecting too much from a puppy too early could only lead to disappointment on the owner’s part and confusion from the dog. Every new puppy needs to be taught how to be a responsible canine and it is the owner’s responsibility to have patience with them. “You should work with them only about 10-15 minutes at a time because they have the attention span of a toddler. They get bored easily,” said Sylvia’s Pets employee Joni Anderson.

Patience is a big factor in training a puppy. The younger they are, the harder it is to get them to listen. One of the first things the puppy should learn is how to be house trained. Setting up an area (inside or outside does not matter) where they can do their business and then training them to use that area is one way to ease the puppy into listening. It is a good idea to keep a close eye on the puppy while it is learning, so that if the dog starts sniffing around for a place to go, it can be quickly directed to the designated area. “Give the puppy lots of praise when they have successfully completed the task you wanted them to do. Treats are also a good way to reward them,” Anderson said. Clicker training a dog is another effective training method and gives positive reinforcement. This “click” that you make is a more distinct way of saying, “good dog.” It is also more effective than using treats alone, according to dogs.about.com. To clicker train dogs, start out in a qui-

et area with treats in hand. Press the clicker about 5-10 times and immediately give the dog a treat. Test the success mainly when the dog is not paying attention. The dog is completely trained when they snap their head in the owner’s direction like they are acknowledging the command. This could be followed by the teaching of other simple commands. When the dog performs the desired action, immediately press the clicker and feed him a treat. Some dogs are more obedient and can be trained easier than others. “Enthusiasm is an important part of training your dog. Border collies are so easy to train, they can do whistle commands and hand commands,” Anderson said. Other dogs are slightly more stubborn, but the key is to find out what their weakness is - whether it be food, attention, or toys - and to use that to reinforce good behaviors. n

Halling’s bird enjoys dancing, music Mia Karr

staff reporter

hile some students have dogs or cats, freshman William Halling has a baby blue parakeet named Charlie. The female bird was given to his sister Amy Halling for her birthday. (She chose the name simply because she liked it.) Charlie has been with the family for eight years, and it has not always been a smooth ride; Halling calls the bird’s personality violent, loud, and rambunctious. “It pecks at you from the cage, squeaks in really high tones and attacks its bell,” William said. He has been the victim of one of these

“

pecking attacks. In cise, she likes to fact, Charlie had to be land on people’s relocated to a different She dances when heads. She also part of the house due music is on. She likes to perch to her constant chirp- loves music. When on the family ing. While she can not you turn it off, she Christmas tree in sing, she does like to December. Other stops. dance. than this exercise, “She dances when -freshman William caring for Charlie music is on. She loves Halling includes feeding music. When you turn her seeds (and it off she stops,” Wilcovering them liam said. in grit to clean He describes Charher gizzard), and lie’s dancing as bopcleaning her cage ping up and down and walking on occasionally. Halling also has two her perch, and says her favorite cats, but Charlie isn’t intimidated. songs are upbeat. “It’s a nice first pet because it’s Attempts to teach Charlie to sit easy to take care of,” Halling said. on a finger have failed, but when she He would suggest getting a parais let out of her cage for some exer- keet, squawks and all. n

“

April 27, 2012

The

Indian American Cafe

newsstreak

ADS - B4 Location #1 1507 E. Market Street Harrisonburg, VA 22801 (540)564-0386

Specializing in Non-Vegetarian/ Vegetarian Indian Cuisine

Location #2 2893 Dale Blvd. Woodbridge, VA 22193 Location #3 1580 S. Main Street Harrisonburg, VA 22801 (540) 433-3189

Lunch: Monday-Saturday 11:00am-2:30 pm Dinner: Monday-Saturday 5:00pm-9:30pm

Location #4 4611 Southpoint Pkwy. Frederickburg, VA 22407 (540) 710-9390

91 N. Main St. Harrisonburg, 22802 (540) 433-1177

Dan’s Body Service Inc. 2591 Harpine Hwy. Harrisonburg, VA 22802 Phone (540) 4348889

Sylvia’s Pets Monday-Saturday 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Ray’s Fine Jewelry and Gifts

226 University Blvd Harrisonburg, VA 22801

If you’re looking for fine quality and unique jewelry, expert advice, a friendly and knowledgable staff and top-notch service and repair work, you’ve found the right place. At Ray’s, we have a combined 47 years of experience in the jewelry business.

Call us at:(540) 433-2124

4090 Evelyn Byrd Ave

Like what you see in this issue? James H. S. Whitney, DDS Board Certified Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon

*Wisdom Teeth *Extractions *Dental Implants *Corrective Jaw Surgery

Call us at: (540) 437-1230 Or Toll Free (877) 449-4123

Visit our website!

Newsstreak.com!

For more stories, pictures, videos and much, much more!

April 27, 2012

The

newsstreak

ADs - B5

Stacie I. Dietz, DDS

Creating Natural Smiles 1663 Virginia Avenue, Suite 210 Harrisonburg, Virginia 22802 Phone: (540) 442-9100 Fax: (540) 442-9096

One of Harrisonburgâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most delicious traditions 22 S. Main Street Harrisonburg, VA 22801 540-434-8282

where everyone enjoys the

ultimate steaks, sushi, and seafood

Lunch hours: Mon-Sat 11a.m.- 4p.m. Dinner hours: Mon-Thurs 4 p.m.-9:30 p.m. Fri & Sat 4 p.m.-10 p.m. Sunday 11a.m.-9 p.m.

We buy, sell, and trade fine antique and estate jewelry. Monday - Friday 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Saturdays 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

(540) 433-1833 75 South Court Square Harrisonburg, Va 22801 www.mchonejewelry.com

Take $.50 OFF any BREAKFAST sandwich OR Take $.75 OFF a #6 CHICKEN CHARLIE!

April 27, 2012

The

newsstreak

SPORTS - Ben DiNapoli - B8

Peter’s Principles Peter Byrd

Public opinion never favors refs

O Flow! Chilly, early spring water rushes over an 83’ foot waterfall on Skyline Drive after a recent rain shower. Photos by Ben DiNapoli.

Durden and DiNapoli enjoy SNP’s Skyline Drive Ben DiNapoli

sports editor

the

n most normal adventurers’ eyes, hiking is not typically extreme. Usually, hiking involves a quick drive to the nearest park or mountain and an hour or two long, moderately easy bout in the woods. However, an easy hike can be turned into an extreme one. All it takes is a little imagination, a bit of time and a thirst for exploration. At the beginning of April, fellow Newsstreak staff member Jake Durden and myself went hiking on Skyline Drive, 100 miles of some of the prettiest and most beautiful scenery in the Shenandoah Valley. The drive was a short one, only about 45 minutes from Harrisonburg, filled with smooth, scenic roads as well as plenty of roadside wildlife, including deer. We attempted the Lewis Falls Trail, a few hundred feet off an overlook by the Big Meadows camping area. At about an hour and half round trip, the hike was a relatively quick one. However, the trail had many opportunities for expansion, which we took full advantage of. Before beginning our excursion, we had to fuel. Normal food is not acceptable in this case. We needed trail food,

shimmy down a narrow path that was on the adjacent hill. This lead to an observation point, a small stone semicircle, that provided an extraordinary view of the falls, all 83 feet of it. The second way involved a more dangerous (potentially fatal, in my mind) way to get a taste of the falls, up close and personal. It requires you to descend an approximately 8 foot vertical rock face, with the help of only a tree. There are consequences if you mess up, however, one of which includes falling over 80 feet to the bottom of the waterfall. Caution is crucial. With a little planning though, the climb was not terribly difficult once we overcame the adrenaline surge from looking over the edge. With a quick leap to the tree and a few tentative steps later, we were at the bottom. From there, we were able to make our way to the very edge of the cliff, where only two tree stumps separated our lives from the edge of the wilderness, but the

view was well worth the risk. As for hiking back up the trail, it was much more difficult than walking down. With the grade hovering around 5%, the path was unrelentless and truly a workout. About three fourths of the way to the trailhead, we found what looked like to be a dried-up waterfall. Filled with muddy, mosscovered boulders, fallen trees and vertical cliffs, Durden and I found this to be a prime opportunity for exploration. We made our way to near the top, but the pitch and the lack of climbable rocks forced us to turn around. You see, hiking is not about how hard, or how long, or even how excluded the trail is from society. All of those things are too easy to come by. The true purpose of hiking is to explore unfound trails, climb unclimbed rocks, eat never-eaten-before food and more importantly, enjoying raging waterfalls. n

x treme corner

The Deal with Durden

Jake Durden

of which includes Nature Valley Oats ‘n Honey granola bars, rice cakes and Chex Mix. All of these items are easy to eat and digest, and also do not have big and bulky packaging which can make carrying many food items a pain. Now, properly energized, we were able to embark on our adventure. The Lewis Falls trail took us on a short 20 minute scramble downhill, looping us around switchbacks and small rock drops, until it popped us out on the edge of the cliff and the edge of an 80foot waterfall. However, the rocky outcrop only allowed us to get so close to the water’s edge, and additional “off-roading” was required in order for us to truly experience the falls. There were two rather tricky options. One required a cross traverse of one of the upper waterfalls of the main falls. There were about three or four miniature waterfalls, no more than five feet tall, that stair stepped from well above the cliff. This provided a good spot to cross, but we still had to hop across slippery, moss covered rocks and try not to accidentally dip our feet into the freezing water. Once crossed, we were able to make our way through some shrubs and

sports editor

ubba Watson’s victory at the Masters over some of the more technically refined and, if you will, polished, golfers, raises an interesting question: is it possible to be over-coached? And, in this highly technological world, is there such a thing as natural, unrefined talent, and can this talent triumph? Bubba Watson claims to have never even seen himself swing on camera, and never have taken a single lesson. His sweet, left-handed thump of a swing recently dismantled the back nine at Augusta National, where legends are born, and past legends crumbled on Sunday. Watson stands in stark contrast to players such as Tiger Woods, who has drastically renovated his swing three times during his career, only to struggle at Augusta this spring. Tiger was once the rising boy wonder, but even back then he relied on a swing coach and technological analysis of his technique. Though Woods has garnered fourteen major championships in his career to Watson’s one, the the mere fact that Watson has achieved a major championship with only his own merit is extremely impressive. Would Watson win more championships if he took on a coach? I think that even if he stays uncoached, Bubba’s sensational shot-making and unflappable

Watson proves talent may exceed training nature will win him several more major titles in the future. Some players feel hampered by the restraints of a coach or system, which Watson has never experienced. This may be why he displays such creativity on the course and will continue to defy convention as long as he remains unbridled. The relationship between coaches and players can be loving, productive, detrimental, or full of vehement hatred. Tiger’s former swing coach Hank Haney (present for six of Woods’ majors) sold him down the river in his controversial book by exploiting Woods’ shortcomings both on the tee box and in hotel rooms. As a popular mantra states, “Hard work beats talent when talent doesn’t work hard.” However, this cannot be confused with good coaching beating talent. Refining techniques is less important than motivating and focusing talented athletes, getting them to set their sights on success. Watson simply never needed an outside source to provide the fuel. At one point, Tiger was self-driven, but he lost himself somewhere along the road. Coaches are necessary or unnecessary depending on the player’s own internal qualities. At times, it can seem like more of an art than a science. The best coaches evoke the best qualities from their players as much as possible. Some, such as Bubba, simply don’t need any help to come up big. n

“Little” Whitelow looks ahead special opportunity by Varsity William Imeson sports editor Coach Mark Mace. With no goal

reshman Christopher Whitelow, recent HHS varsity baseball freshman phenom, is blazing a trail for young talent in sports. Whitelow starts every game for the varsity at catcher, is one of the team leaders in hits, and a strapping six feet tall. This isn’t the only whitelow phenom, his younger brother Christian, in seventh grade, also inherited the basebell gene. However, Christian is too young to be eligible to participate on the Junior Varsity and or Varsity team But that does not stop him from being a part of the team; he is the manager for JV And Varsity. As the manager, Christian runs errands for the coaches, helps out during fielding practice, carries gear during travel, manages the books, and takes helps to care of the field. This gives him the opportunity to observe the hard work and dedication necessary for the varsity team. This also allows him the chance to develop something very necessary in every sport, friendships. “It’s cool getting to know everybody on the team,” Christian said He was approached with this

more obvious then to get a “sneak peek” of his future talent. “Coach Mace was the one who came to me and asked me to be the manager,” Christian said. “He said if I do this, it will help me get a lot better for my future on the team.” Due to rules by the VHSL Christian cannot participate on the Junior Varsity team this year. Christian will be a part of the JV team next year, his eighth grade year, and will surely be beneficial towards the team. Christian hopes to be playing middle infield, and surely believes his batting skills will not be overlooked. Despite his young age, Christian participates on a travelling ball club with other members of the JV team and has a bright future with HHS athletics. “I’m really looking forward to showing my skills, and to show im not just another guy on the team.” Christian says. Showing commitment this early in life is a very promising skill. That this young athlete possesses. The HHS baseball team is sure looking forward towards this young gun, and the commitment he shows. n

fficiating. The unheralded but oftcriticized art. In this day and age, I’ve never heard so many fans (and players for that matter) use the phrase “The refs were terrible and cost us the game.” No, the referees did not lose the game; your team did not make enough plays to win the game. If your team was so elite the game shouldn’t have come down to one play. Officials in all sports are victimized by patrons for doing their job. A referee is trained to call what he sees on any given play. Sports governing bodies have attempted to do everything possible to ensure correct calls; the use of a multitude of referees and video reviews is such evidence.There are multiple officials in football, basketball, soccer, baseball, and hockey to help out if any one ref is unsure about a particular play. Even though in the past I might have joined in with the raucous chorus of fans chanting “I’m blind, I’m deaf, I want to be be a ref ” or “A rope, a tree, hang the referee”, there is no place for abusive and demeaning aphorisms. Football officials can meet to discuss whether a particular play was pass interference or if a ball was tipped at the line of scrimmage, thus making contact downfield legal. Basketball officials frequently huddle up to determine the severity of a foul call or a deflection out of bounds. Calls in nearly every sport aren’t called by one brainless official as many make it seem. The center ref in soccer has his assistant referees to help determine offsides and possible fouls or play-ons. This crew of sorts is essential to invariable and uniform calls. I have absolutely no problem with officials because more often than not, they tacitly perform their job. Who can name more than five referees or umpires? My point exactly. Officials who do their job correctly and consistently are never given appropriate notoriety nor appreciation. I do, however, have a serious problem with officials who overstep their boundaries and make themselves the main attraction. One of my biggest pet peeves is when a basketball ref hops six times while smacking the outside of his fists to his waist just to make a blocking call. Anyone else agree with me? How about “Big Blue” behind home plate pumping his arms every which way while grunting just to ring a guy up for watching strike three? Officials need to go about their job quietly and undemonstrative. To all the sports buffs out there who attempted to come up with five officials, try coming up with five others than Jim Joyce, Ed Hochuli, Graham Poll, Jerry Crawford, and Tim McClelland who are famous for the all the wrong reasons. I bet you can’t. And that’s because officials have been doing their job correctly even if you do think it’s just a bunch of 40-year old men and women who have visited their local Foot Locker and bought zebra-striped jerseys. Next time you are at a baseball game, count the number of correctly called balls and strikes by “Big Blue” before he “misses” a sinking curveball on the outside corner at the knees. Most officials make very few mistakes in a given game and almost all will give a make-up call later on. So before spilling your $7 beer or chucking your pound of peanuts as a result of getting more worked up than Bobby Cox after a “blown” call, sit back in your chair and reminisce over the dependability of officiating in all sports in recent memory. n

April 27, 2012

The

newsstreak

SPORTS - Mitch DePoy - B7

Disc golf offers a new form of summer sports for students Anthony Duong

sports writer

hen taking a trip to Westover Park in Harrisonburg, families and individuals take note of the atmosphere and enjoy their time playing on the playgrounds or walking around the track. Little do people know that there is a disc golf course, available for people to play everyday. Disc golf is a game played similar to golf. Players use a frisbee to negotiate a course of 21 holes. The object is to make your way from each tee to hole in the fewest number of strokes. James Madison University college student Jon Hanes enjoys playing disc golf around Westover and finds the course challenging. “I learned how to play at Westover Park and I'm glad I did. I believe it's helped me signifi-

cantly as I start to travel and play other courses more,” Hanes said. Hanes started playing disc golf a year ago and has regularly come to Westover to learn how to play. He started to take place in events for disc golf around Harrisonburg and now knows how to play the game properly. “The sport of disc golf is very challenging and takes a while before you can get a hang of it, but it’s fun and enjoyable when you know how to play it,” Hanes said. There is a wide variety of frisbees you can use while playing disc golf. These consist of putters, mid-ranges, and drivers. Putters are designed to fly straight, predictably, and very slowly compared to mid-range discs and drivers. They are typically used for tight, controlled shots that are close to the basket. Mid-range discs have slightly sharper edges that enable them to cut through the air better. These discs

Catch! Senior Miltion Delgado launches a frisbee with his friends Photo by Jake Durden

are usually more stable than a driver and have a more stable and predictable flight path. They are faster and have a longer range than a putter. Drivers are usually recognized by their sharp edge and are mainly used at start to get closer to the goal. “When playing disc golf I like to use the mid-range as the driver, they usually have more air time and it is easier to control when throwing,” sophomore Adan Romero said. While Harrisonburg provides a disc golf course, Massanutten, Bridgewater, and Blue Ridge also provide disc golf courses. Throughout the year there are events such as the Disc Golf Doubles, Annual Ice Bowl Disc Golf Tournament, Disc Golf Bag Tag Challenge, and tournaments that take place at Westover. The sport of disc golf expands into Harrisonburg and satisfied disc golf players play regularly on the course throughout the season. n

Baller. Senior Leo Lopez leaps for the grab. Photo by Jake Durden

Ross, St. Ours bring a new twist to tailgating for 2012/13 Max Johnson

sports writer

orn hole is one of the most relaxing, easy to learn sports in the entire world, and although it lacks in popularity, it is definitely popular at Harrisonburg High school. It wasn't all that popular in recent years, but it has caught on in recent years. You can blame the corn hole phenomenon at tailgates on three students. Robby Ross, Troupe Armentrout and Sam St. Ours. They started playing cornhole at tailgates and now everybody in the school wants in. But there is a story behind why they love corn hole so much. Ross first learned of corn hole when he went to college with his older sister who attends the University of Virginia. When he went, he noticed that on every flat surface or any front lawn, there were corn hole boards set up or being played on. Ross was new to corn hole and didn't exactly know what it was. Until him and his sister decided to play a game. Immediately Ross fell in love with the game.

“Corn hole is just great, I love the mix of how relaxing it is, but how intense it can end up, it’s perfect,” said Ross Ross actually loved the game so much that he got back to Harrisonburg and bought two boards and a set of beanbags to play with the Harrisonburg kids. Robby first started playing with Sam St. Ours whose older brother also attended’s the University Of Virginia so he knew about the corn hole deal. When Ross and St. Ours meet Troupe Armentrout. A junior from Georgia where corn hole is often played. “I played corn hole all the time down in Georgia,” Armentrout said. This three came close and a corn hole team you can say was fielded. Then they brought it to the HHS tailgate and it started as a two board and only a couple people will play kind of thing. Now they have turned it into a six board everybody at the tailgate wants to play thing. So you can say that these three, started a corn hole phenomenon at Harrisonburg High School that isn’t going to be going away anytime soon as long as there are tailgates and boards. n

Two thumb up! Junior Sam St. Ours plans to rev up next year’s tailgating efforts with the help of Juniors Robby Ross and Troupe Armentrout. Photo by Emily Jamieson.

Ross enjoys fishing in his free time Ultimate Frisbee starting Sydney Knupp

to catch on with students

sports reporter

obby Ross has been fishing since he was llittle. When asked where is favorite fishing hole is, he thinks you would be very surprised. Out of all the places to fish, Ross states his favorite spot is Newman Lake. “That pond is like a box of chocolate, you never know what you are going to get” Ross said. Ross not only fishes in ponds, but also in the Chesapeake Bay, these fish, unlike the ones at Newman Lake, are suitable for eating, not just catch and release. This mean that after you catch a fish, you release it back into the water and do not eat it. Although both locations are prime for capturing a sufficiently sized fish, they both have their pros and cons. Unfortunately the fish at Newman lake receive the catch-and-release label only, while the fish caught by Ross at the Bay, face a multitude of fates that include, grilling, and frying and of course eating. Ross has several secrets to being a great fisherman, one of which is using live bait like blood worms that produce the best results. His pole is an everyday Wal-Mart type, but

Anthony Duong

Open wide! Sophomore Seth Harper catches a Large Mouth out on the river. Photo Courtesy of Seth Harper. he uses a braided fishing line for catching fish that weigh a lot, if he is having a lucky day. The largest fish Ross has ever caught in his long fishing career was a 20 pound catfish. This colossal catch was reeled in neither, Newman lake, nor the Chesapeake Bay , but rather at Switzer dam lake, near West Virginia. Ross hopes to always be fishing no matter where he lives. It is not really about the size of the fish themselves, but the communing with nature and solitude and meditation that comes with fishing, he enjoys the most. If you are looking for a hobby then Ross recommends fishing. n

sports reporter

hen the sun is shining outside and the air smells like summer, you can’t resist to do some outdoor activities. When summer hits students, they know that school work is on a hold for several months to catch a break. During most of the summer, people stay active by playing multiple sports with other friends. Whether it’s throwing a football around or kicking a soccer ball, it’s easy to have fun in the summer heat. Others, however, take a different approach and play ultimate frisbee as a way to compete and have fun during summer. “I think the sport is fun to students here, mainly because it is like others.” Physical Education teacher Paul Rath said. Ultimate frisbee is often compared to football because of the similar tactics and rules. The object of ultimate frisbee is to move the disc down the field and score in an end zone. Players cannot move with the disc and can only pivot on one foot while holding it.

“I play ultimate frisbee sometimes, but other people have crazy ways to throw the frisbee.” Levi Morrison said. There are a variety of techniques others use to get the disc down the field. Like quarterbacks in football, ultimate frisbee players have different throwing styles. The backhand is the most commonly learned throw, and one of the most powerful. To be complete in ultimate frisbee, players need to know how to throw a flick, backhand, hammer, scoober, thummer, fullfield huck, and push pass. While there are different styles of throwing in football, ultimate frisbee has just as much. Footballs and frisbees are two completely different objects, so which one is harder to throw? “It’s hard because there are different perspectives into throwing each object,” sophomore quarterback Ryan Nixon said. Ultimate frisbee season has already started throughout the nation, but the summer is when most players gear up and start playing. There is no doubt that this is an enjoyable sport for many during the summer and is a way to keep in shape over the break. n

Students use warm weather to train for school sports Jake Durden

sports editor

or most athletes, the summer can bring a time for rest and recovery from their seasonal grinds. For some, however, the warmer weather provides an opportunity to hone their skills while still having fun in the sun. For Harrisonburg volleyball players Mikala Wolter and Skyler Johnson, the higher temperatures give them an opportunity to take their game from the hardwood to the sand. The athletes typically rendezvous two to three times a week to play, sometimes in the sweltering mid-afternoon heat, other times under the lights in the cooler evenings. The change in terrain is drastic, and causes different challenges for the athletes. Mobility is limited by the shifting terrain, but it does have positive consequences for the athletes. “Sand volleyball helped my vertical. It requires more power to get on top of the ball when I’m hitting,” Wolter said. At the same time, the carefree atmosphere can create issues for players that can reduce their technicality. “You develop a lot of bad habits,” Wolter said. “Last summer, Skyler got lazy and stopped setting properly.”

The sandy terrain also had some drawbacks for Wolter when she returned to the hardwood indoors. “I stopped moving my feet in the summer,” Wolter said. “I tended to dive more and move my feet less.” The volleyball players experience a mix of pros and cons for their game when playing on the sand, but for athletes of other sports there seem to be less negative side effects. Soccer player Evan Shank participates in summer sand volleyball matches frequently, was thrilled with the ramifications of his athletic development “Reacting to the ball helps me develop fast-twitch muscle fibers, which gives me the extra step I need on the soccer field,“ Shank said. As a defensive player, Shank needs the burst and range of motion to be able to counter the opposing forward’s move, as well as the coordination that helps with set pieces when the ball is flying through the air. Shank has already finished off one goal with a header this year, and volleyball once again deserves some of the credit. “Sometimes we play soccer-style sand volleyball, and can only pass it over the net with our heads, feet, and knees,” Shank said. “This too pays off on the soccer field.” n

Little Grill Collective 621 North Main Street Harrisonburg, VA 22802 (540)434-3594

Find more details, and a calendar of events on our website:

www.littlegrillcollective.com Fun with Friends!

Fresh Ingredients

April 27, 2012

The

the

newsstreak

SPORTS- Ben DiNapoli - B6

Unsung Heroes

Whitelow takes over as Streaks catcher as Baughman recuperates Max Johnson sports reporter

O Christopher Whitelow, Photo by Ben DiNapoli.

catcher.

ne of the most under valued roles in any sport is being the catcher, where you are stuck sitting in a bent down stance for almost half of the game, wearing lots of padding and having a ball thrown 70+ miles per hour right at you. People just assume that catching a ball is easy, when in reality it is one of the most difficult positions to perfect. You have to be mature and be able to handle adversity, and most importantly a catcher has to be a leader. Catchers have to be vocal in order to quarterback the 8 other players on the field into being in the right spot at the right time. Christopher Whitelow definitely has

and has shown the ability to fill out each and every requirement to be a great varsity catcher. “Sometimes I have to remind myself that he is 14,” head coach Mark Mace said Whitelow has started all 3 of the streaks games and is performing as an above average player. At the beginning of the season, he was batting .556 with an RBI and three runs scored. He lead the team in batting average, stolen bases and on base percentage. As a freshman, Mace says that Whitelow is one of the most vocal people on the varsity squad and is very good at taking charge of a game and leading his pitchers in the right direction. This performance would be praised by anybody in any grade, but once again you will have to remind yourself after hearing these stats: this kid is a true freshman.

In the summer of his eighth grade year, Whitelow was already receiving letters from colleges like West Virginia University, Wesleyan and smaller division 1 and division 2 schools. Whitelow is on pace to have some serious Division 1 offers in his near future. Whitelow is happy with his performance, but coming into the season with his personal expectations much lower. “My goal was to start just one game, and split a little time with [catcher] Bryce Baughman,” Whitelow said. Baughman started catcher as a sophomore and was hoping to split time with Whitelow, but unfortunately Baughman tore a ligament in his shoulder and will be out for the remainder of the season. So now it is Whitelow’s turn to step to the plate and show why he should be a four year starter. So far, he is definitely passing the test. n

Streaks boys soccer backline is crucial for success Max Johnson

sports reporter

he offense scores the goals, earns newspaper headlines, and receives praise from fellow students while defenders are left to reap adoration from only their parents. For seniors Connor Floros, Joche Rodriguez, and Evan Shank, the lack of limelight is something they have grown accustomed to. “I am fine with not all students recognizing our contributions to the team because we run the show at the back and keep the team

organized,” Floros said. Shank agreed. “The VHSL rule book still states that Evan Shank must play left back, but it’s okay because I’ve grown accustomed to my role and I’m comfortable in that role,” Shank said jokingly. The defense has been a rock at the back in recent memory and has earned Harrisonburg multiple members of the All-District team as well as 1st-team goalie in the district the past four years, due in large part to the large number of shutouts they have had. Rodriguez, who can be

identified by his slick black hair, is a fan favorite among students and is an avid follower of La Liga in Spain. “My favorite defender is Carles Puyol from Barcelona and my hair is like his I guess. Girls tell me they like my hair so I keep it in pristine condition,” Rodriguez said. In addition to hair, part of Rodriguez’s game mirrors Puyol. “He is a beast in the air and I try to win every header when I challenge for a ball.” Rodriguez, who will also see time as a defensive mid fielder in a 3-5-2 formation, and Floros were elected cap-

tains by their teammates. “It’s an honor to be bestowed the privilege,” Floros said and Rodriguez added “It means a lot. I’m humbled to have my teammates respect.” Experience is prevalent on the back line. With eleven years of experience between the three seniors, the Streaks look sturdy at the back. The fourth member of the Streaks’ defensive unit is Andrew Todd. The beachblonde-haired junior is familiar with the senior trio of defenders. “I played travel with

Soccer Strategies

them on Shenandoah Valley United for two years so we know when to cover for each other,” Todd said. “I think my skill-set fits nicely with them. I think I’m quicker than them but their size really helps. I’d like to think with all our unique skills combined, we form an effective defense that can do a lot of things and disrupt opposing team’s flow.” The Streaks also have depth along the back line, something they have lacked in years past. Sophomore Jacob Byrd has filled in nicely when called upon. Harrisonburg will rely on

its veteran defense to make a deep postseason run. After giving up two goals in a season-ending loss last year, players have vowed to make states. “Anything less than a state tournament appearance is a huge disappointment,” Shank said. Floros agreed. “This team has no head cases like we’ve had in years past. The unity this team has is something I’ve never been around. I think with the talent we have and the determination which we lacked last year, we can make a deep run in the playoffs.” n

Infographic by Michael Johnson and Ben DiNapoli

More so than pure fitness and endurance, gameplay and strategy matter just as much during a soccer match. During practice, drills and scenarios are repped over and over so the team can execute these strategies when it really counts.

1. If you are granted a goal kick, the ball is placed on one side of the six yard box (the smaller rectangle inside of the box). Like keeper saves, the kicker can see if the outside back is open and play him a ball. He can also kick it up the field. When kicking up the field, the you want to make sure that you get it far down the field and make sure that you kick it high in the air.

2. Once a goalkeeper saves a ball, he has six seconds to get rid of it. He has to read the field. His first option is to either play an outside back or outside mid fielder. He usually does this by throwing them the ball. His second option is to punt the ball. When punting the ball, you want to make sure that you get it far up the

3 (offensive). During a corner on offense, typically you usually have

one player go to the near post (the post of the goal that is closest to the corner where taken), two players going to the middle of the box, and one player going back side. Corners are ideal goal scoring opportunities, and having a well planned strategy can potentially be a game winner.

1 4

(O)

(d)

(O)

(D)

3 (defensive). There are two main ways to defend a corner. You can either zone or man mark. Either way, playing defense on a corner can be extremely challenging. Man Marking: When man marking, you simply choose a player to guard and stay goal side (between him and the goal) of him. Zoning: When zoning, you usually make two lines parallel to the goal. Each person covers a few feet up from them and a few feet back from them.

4 (defensive). For free kicks, a wall is crucial. Depending on how 4 (offensive). When taking a free kick, far out the ball is placed affects the number of people in the wall. The farther out the free kick, the less people you need in the wall. Typically, if the ball is right outside of the box, you want four and maybe even five people in your wall. Either the goalie or a forward sets the wall. Whoever is instructing the wall wants to make sure that the outside player on the wall is in line with the nearest post.

strategy depends on where the ball is placed. If the ball is right outside of the box, the player kicking should most likely shoot. If the ball is in between the box and the midline, the player kicking should most likely cross a ball into the box and let his or her teammates try for the goal.

Lady Streaks work to develop cohesive defensive unit Sydney Knupp

sports reporter

ost spectators of a soccer game applaud the forwards and occasionally a lucky mid fielder that sometimes place a beautiful ball in the back of the net. The fans give the credit to those who put points on the board, but what about the back line?

The key to any successful team, no matter the division, league, or caliber of play, is the defense. Even when a goal scoring opportunity is thwarted , the goalkeeper receives the admiration for the stop. Although goals are required to achieve a victory, goals must be stopped in order to solidify a win. The Streaks graduated their entire starting defense, including Lexi Vondrak,

who currently plays at Division II Shepherd University. Consequently, the only veteran with significant experience is junior Taylor Grogg at right back. Grogg has accepted the role of leading the Lady Streaks with precise movement and rotation along with senior goal keeper Claire Glick. The main problem with the Lady Streaks is their lack of communication. The

relative silence on the back line results in reduction in rotation. Defenders end up stabbing forward, leaving them in a vulnerable position and inviting a possible goal-scoring opportunity, as opposed to containing the attackers cohesively. “We have great individuals on the back-line, but we need to unite on defense becoming one system,” Armentrout said.

Last year, the forwards and mid fielders were spoiled by the Streaks stellar seniordriven defense that led the team to victories in both the regular season district and the district tournament. The defense of any successful team absorbs the opponent’s offensive momentum and fuels their own team’s attack. The young defense shows great potential so far clench-

ing victories over Handley and in a district game against Fort. When pondering the solution to the problem, there is no simple answer. The young Streaks simply lack in experience, but once they learn how to communicate, they can begin develop a very strong defensive line. n

December 16, 2011 April 27, 2012

2011-12

HHS

NEWSSTREAK

PATRONS

NEWSSTREAK SUPER SPONSORS Ann and John Speer Denise Zito Dr. William O'Meara Eric and Dawn Wine Ruple Ginna and Hobey Bauhan Kathy and Larry Whitten Kevin and Karen Rose Leo Eisert Mark and Ann Siciliano Sallie and Scott Strickler Ted and Stephanne Byrd Valerie and Bobby Kibler Judith Strickler

The

newsstreak

ADS - B9

Patrons are members of the Harrisonburg community and others who support the pursuit of excellence in the journalistic publications of Harrisonburg High School. Money generated from the patron program is used to offset costs of attending journalism conferences, to print our paper, and to purchase up-to-date technological equipment for our journalism lab. To become a patron, see any member of the Newsstreak Staff or stop by room 444. You can also visit www.newsstreak.com to download a patron ad contract. Patron level is determined by the following scale: HHS Patrons, $5; Blue Patrons, $10; Bronze Patrons, $15; Silver Patrons, $25; Gold Patrons, $50; and Newsstreak Super Sponsor, $100+.

Riley Billy Martin Chris Arndt Dan and Betsy Kennedy Dawn and Daryl Cockerham Ed and Naomi Sensenig Elvin and Sharon Hostetter Eric Sents Jackie & George Durden Jane M. Brown Jay and Pat Supko John T. Siciliano Larry and Valerie Kaylor Larry Barber LeSonya Bullard Mary Lou and Challace McMillin Nanci Sharp Nancy Byrd GOLD SILVER SPONSORS SPONSORS Nancy Heisey A&T Anne & JC Nicky Swayne Rebecca Chicken DePoy Burcher Jones Ann Held JT and Richard S. and Ansah Family Stacy Sally A. Bob and Sally Turner Morrell Hostetter Kara and Seth Diane and Bernie Karr Harper David Mallory Steve and Ehrenpreis Cromer Lauree Dick and Anne and Joe Gerrie Brown Dick Johnson and Jackie Zito Jessica Adolino & Tim DiNapoli HHS ESL Department John and Erma Coffey Lucie and John Levy Martha Ray Shifflett Megan E. Shifflett Michael K. Eye Polly and John Bauhan Sarah DiNapoli Scott Kizner The Shisler Family Tom Little and Carmen Moreno

Purcell Kris Vass Tim and Lynda Kristy Blackwell Peifer Marge Tim Meyers Johnson Tom and Lori Mari Kyle Mendez Mark Healy Tracy Melody Shaver Wilson Wendy Nelson and Siciliano Marie Herring Wendy Philip Yutzy Torgerson Robert Hoskins Sam Nickels BRONZE SPONSORS Sheila Fielding Tim and Holly Haney/ Debbie Bob Kolvoord Lacey Richard Tracey Barr Tysinger Vicki Warg Andrew Vickie Jackson McAlister Curtis and HHS Beth Cash SPONSORS David Brendon Loughran Derstine Geoffray Estes Cathy Grogg Kilders M. Carl Giron Donakowski Shivakumar Chris Grefe Beheraj Coach Chris The Hooks Thurman Yolanda Blake Debbie BLUE Witman SPONSORS Edson Beth Houff Arango Eduardo Kim Hook Hernandez Linda Elwood Bradley Family Mr. and Mrs. Judy and Walton Chris White Patricia Kevin Pineda Tysinger

Make a difference in your school. Make a difference in your world. Join the Newsstreak Staff, the team that makes a difference.

We need good writers, photographers, designers, webmasters, artists, business administrators, editors, sports enthusiasts, cartoonists and just plain good people. You could have what it takes! Talk to a journalist today.

The experience - A10

The newsstreak

April 27, 2012

Adventuresin Seattle 5,490 miles, three days, and eight journalism students makes for a raucous time on the West Coast! Newsstreak, yearbook, and SBC staff members made a cross-country journey to the JEA/NSPA annual spring convention in Seattle, Washington. At the convention, students honed their journalism skills and reaped national awards.

Jack Burden

online editor-in-chief

s the elevator ascended the 519 feet to the top of the Seattle Space Needle, one could see a change come over Conner Whitehouse. The senior is admittedly afraid of heights, and the glass elevator speeding straight up at 20 miles per hour was doing Whitehouse no favors. As the elevator got closer and closer to the top, Whitehouse became more and more nervous, until finally, the elevator arrived at the top, and he stepped out onto the outdoor viewing deck overlooking downtown Seattle and the Puget Sound. “I was pretty petrified, I’m really not a huge fan of heights, and we were really high,” Whitehouse said. In addition to visiting the Space Needle, members of the HHS Newsstreak, yearbook, and broadcast staffs visited multiple tourist attractions throughout downtown Seattle. They began at Pikes Place on Thursday morning, then went down to the waterfront where they took a cruise of the Sound. Next they went to the EMP (Electronic Music Project) Museum, where artifacts like the jacket Michael Jackson wore at the Motown 25th show are housed. They then ended up at the Space Needle. Every year the Journalism Education Association and the National Scholastic Press Association hold two national journalism conventions, one in the fall and one in the spring. This year’s fall convention was held in Minneapolis, Minnesota, and the Spring Convention was held in Seattle, Washington. No one from Harrisonburg attended the fall convention, but eight students and three chaperones attended the Seattle convention. “More kids were interested in going to the spring convention, probably because they were more interested in Seattle than Minneapolis, so we decided to just go to Seattle,” Newsstreak adviser Valerie Kibler said. The students spent Thursday touring different attractions in downtown Seattle, but Thursday night the convention officially kicked off with a keynote speech by the Editor-in-Chief of MSNBC.com, Jennifer Sizemore. The next day, students were required to attend several sessions, with breaks for lunch and another keynote speech provided. “I really enjoyed the photo journalism class, because the lady teaching it had a bunch of good ideas, particularly regarding sports photography,” Whitehouse said. The second keynote speech, delivered by Dan Savage, the founder of the “It Gets Better” video project, was a source of controversy at the convention. Savage himself is openly homosexual, and many at the convention were uncomfortable with his colorful language and “attacks” on religious critiques of homosexuality. “I thought his goal to decrease the LGBT suicide rate is a noble cause, but I thought his slanted attacks on the Bible and Christianity were unnecessary,” Whitehouse said. On Saturday, once again students were required to go to sessions in the morning, then in the afternoon they were released to find lunch in downtown Seattle. Throughout the entire trip, delicious food had not been hard to come by. Seattle is famous for its seafood, and for being the home of the first ever Starbucks. However, the range of food available extends far beyond fish and coffee. Bakeries, hot dog stands, delis, donut stands, and Chinese restaurants line Pikes Place and the streets of downtown Seattle. “I’d have to say the piroshky’s from Piroshky, Piroshky, the gyro from Falafel King, and the donuts were the best food I had,” Whitehouse said. After lunch and one last session, the HHS group packed up their bags and headed home on a red eye flight from San Francisco to Dulles Airport. “Overall, it was a great trip, I’m definitely glad I went. I just really liked the atmosphere in Seattle; the sessions were cool, but I really liked being in an atmosphere that you don’t see on this side of the country,” Whitehouse said. n

C’mon it’s only 519 feet. The Space Needle is one of the west coast’s most iconic buildings. Students were lucky enough to travel to the top of the needle and see the entire city below. Photo by Valerie Kibler.

The view. Senior Joanna Hernandez snaps some pictures while at the top of the Space Needle. Photo by Jack Burden.

JEA/ NSPA 2011 Students wait for the conference’s opening ceremony to begin. Photo by Valerie Kibler.

Spend wisely. The group spent a large amount of their free time at Pike Place, an outdoor market and shopping area. The market is one of Seattle’s most famous locations. Photo by Jack Burden.

Deeeelicious. (Above and below) Some of the delicacies Pike Place has to offer. Photos by Valerie Kibler. Heads Up! A seafood worker prepares to toss a fish to one of his co-workers. Fish tossing is a regular occurance at Pike Place. Photo by Valerie Kibler.

The one, the only. Seattle is home to the Starbucks franchise. Students visited the original location and enjoyed some delicious caffeinated treats. Photos by Valerie Kibler.