W ashingtonian Issue 3 Volume 62 Dec. 17, 2010
Washington High School 313 South 4th Avenue, Washington, IA 52353 Songs Show-Choir is Singing *Christmas is Sharing *The Christmas Song *Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire They are also singing a Christmas program called One Magic Christmas that includes these songs: *An Old Fashioned Christmas Show-Choir preformed Dec. 4 in Brighton Community Center Photo by Travis Jones
Show-Choir sings around the community
Maddie Collier Reporter
The school show-choir is helping to spread the Christmas cheer to everyone in the community. Mike Jewell, choir, and the 29 people involved in show choir have been practicing for upcoming vocal performances around town before Christmas. This is an annual event. They plan to perform in care facilities in the com-
munity including: Halcyon House, the UP Home, the McCreedy Home, and the Washington care center. “Hopefully we can bring some beautiful, fun, and inspirational music to other people in the community, and it’s good for both groups to interact with each other,” said Jewell. Not only do the students in show-choir perform a large variety of Christmas songs for the people that live in these homes, but they also socialize with
them as well. At the end of each performance, the students give each audience member a candy cane. “It’s a way to outreach into the community, a way for the people in these centers to see and hear the high school students, and hear about school,” said Jewell. “I think it’s good because the people in the community get to see the talent that the high schoolers have,” said Maddie Westen, ’12, show-choir participant.
*Let it Snow *Frosty the Snowman *Jingle Bell Rock *Nothin’ for Christmas *Mamma kissin’ Santa Clause *I’ll be Home for Christmas *Somewhere in my Memory
Kirkwood Academy to be built at new high school location Jacob Black Co-Editor
With the addition of the new high school, WHS will be building a Kirkwood Academy. Kirkwood Academy is a building that is going to be attached to the new high school. The administration hopes that adding the Kirkwood Academy will make it easier for students to take college courses. “We are going to definitely be expanding our Concurrent Credit Courses,” said Erik Buchholz, high school principal. Concurrent Credit Courses are classes that are available to high school students for both high school and college credit. Currently, students enrolled Concurrent Credit Courses have to drive out to Kirkwood campuses either in Washington, Iowa City, or Mt. Pleasant. The new Kirkwood Academy will make taking Concurrent Credit Courses easier for students. “[Kirkwood Academy] will be more efficient cost wise for students,” said Buchholz. High school teachers will be teaching in the Kirkwood Academy. The buildings will contain anywhere from four to fourteen classrooms. Concurrent Credit Courses are only available for core subjects, including Math, Science, English, and Social Studies. “We want out teachers to be available to teach Kirkwood curriculum and their syllabus,” said Kathy Stender, guidance counselor. Stender predicts that the addition of Kirkwood Academy will increase enrollment in Concurrent Credit Courses. Schools within
the area of Washington High School will be able to enroll their students in classes at Kirkwood Academy. “We want to become a regional academy for Kirkwood,” said Stender. For students that do not want to take a college class for a core subject, WHS offers other options. Post Secondary Enrollment Options (PSEO) are college classes for elective subjects. PSEO’s have requirements that Concurrent Credit Courses do not require. PSEO’s require ITED’s proficiency, a passing grade on the Compass Exam, and certain grades in certain courses. “I’ve had to tell students no sometimes,” said Stender. Academy courses are also available for college credit. Academy courses are only available in the career and education departments. There are currently 100 students enrolled in Academy courses. “Our teachers here at the high school teach Academy courses,” said Stender. Kirkwood Academy is going to make life easier for the students of WHS. Kirkwood academy will allow students to graduate with more college credits than are currently available, which is anywhere from 30 to 50 credits. Both the staff and the administration are excited for the new addition. “[Kirkwood Academy] is an opportunity for teachers to further their ability,” said Buchholz.
“We want to become a regional academy for Kirkwood.” - Kathy Stender, guidance.
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Driver’s Ed
Photo by Jacob Black
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What’s Inside Christmas
9
12
Winter Driving
Amanda Blitsch Washingtonian 2 NEWS
Driver’s ed sees changes
Amanda Blitsch Copy Editor
Drivers’ Education will no longer be offered through the school to students wishing to learn to drive. Beginning this summer Washington High School will no longer have the class Drivers’ Education. Auto Drive Right will now teach aspiring drivers, though the class will be held within the high school building. The current Drivers’ Ed. teacher, Gene Zeck, will be relased from his teaching position at the end of this spring’s session. “The only difference is the teacher,“ said Buchholtz. The reasoning behind in having the Drivers’ Educa-
tion class becoming an outsourced class came about when the new super Intendent came to us. Comparing the expenses from schools with a Drivers’ Ed and those who did not offer showed a difference that made the administrators decide. One of the benefits is that without drivers’ education the school will not be responsible of the drivers’ education. resources. The school will not be offering high school credit for the new driver’s education program. The class will take place after school as usual, using the car provided by Auto Drive Right. “There will be no different expectation of students,“ said Buchholtz.
Hunting season starts
Jesse Starr Free Lance Reporter
The silent crunch of the ground below ones foot and the heavy but slow breathing of a hunter as he tries to make his silent approach upon a deer in thirty degree or colder weather just for the hunt of the kill. Deer hunters are always excited for that Saturday for when shotgun season opens right after bow hunting had just ended. “I love when shot gun season opens up because I just want to go out on that first day and hit as many deer as I can just to fill my tags for the season,’ said Jacob Brown, ’12. Brown hunts for more than one reason. One is that it just relives some of his stress, others are just knowing that he is out there alone and that the life of that deer depends on the accuracy of the shot of the bullet from his shotgun. It is a tradition for Browns family to be out there right next to his father and other-fellow friends that all go hunting with him. His biggest deer was a nine-point buck that scored about a one-forty for points. “I want to go out this year and find that one twelvepoint buck of my dreams so that I could rub it in my
dads face after passing him up and having it mounted on the wall so that I could always brag about my biggest kill,” said Brown. Spencer Miller,’11 spends his time out in the woods hunting in the freezing whether just so he can turn his game into jerky. Miller also has that dream of hitting a twelve-point buck but thinks it will never happen. “There is nothing better then the taste of the jerky that comes from a fresh killed deer,” said Miller. “It has got to by my favorite thing ever and I hate having to wait so long every year before I can do it again but it is definitely worth it in the end.” Jase Hammes,’13 hunts for the elation of making the kill of a wild game animal essentially a monstrous buck. Hammes love to hunt because of all the other wildlife he sees while out in the forest. He likes being out there alone because it is so peaceful and relaxing to get away from the rest of society. His dream buck that got away from him was a fifteen or twenty point buck with a massive rack of antlers. “I was so nervous when this monster beast walked out in front of me and only twenty yards away that I was so nervous and shaking that I missed the buck completely,” said Hammes.
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Peer helpers help during holidays Travis Jones Reporter Peer Helpers as their name implies help their peers. They are currently working on adopt a family for ACAP. Where peer helpers get assigned a family. Then, they buy presents for families that might not have a Christmas this year. “Peer helpers help others and provide friendly services,” said Cynthia
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Ben Hanson Reporter The Washington Education Association (WEA) are teachers who want to give back to the district that employs them. Two teachers represent each school. The representatives for the high school are Angela Taylor and Regina Schantz. Every year for the past few years during national education week the WEA gives turkey dinners chosen at random. This year the WEA raised 180 meals. Money for meals are donated by various groups around the community. Four groups from the high school the Student Congress, FFA, Peer Helpers, and National Honor Society participated in this event. Together the high school con-
Highway 1&78 Box 178 Brighton, IA 52540 319-694-2200
653-5406 Pharmacy 653-2155
tributed 40 of the 180 meals. The WEA is involved all through the community. They hope to continue giving back to the community with continued turkey dinners and other activities for many more years.
Inside the turkey dinner: Turkey roll with gravey Box of stuffing mix Bag of carrots Bag of pre mix salad Can of cranberry sauce Cans of veggies Package of dinner rolls No bake desert
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Kennedy, Peer Helpers teacher. Peer helpers are also working on “Share the Warmth Project.” In share the warmth, peer helpers collect mittens, hats, coats, and gloves. Then, they give them to children in need. Collect and give, that is what Peer Helpers is doing this winter. “The little kids love when we come and see them,” said Dana Skubal
WEA hosts Turkey Dinner
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Wallace Extinguisher Service Joey Wallace - Owner (319)-653-3624 2224 250th St. Washington, IA 52353
12/17/2010
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Washingtonian NEWS
12/17/2010
1:1 Computer ratio for the new school
Lauren Vittetoe
Yearbook Underway Zuleyma Leal & Brooklyn Reid Yearbook Editors
Lexi Bratton Reporter
Last year the WHS yearbook staff won third place in state for graphics and both Taylor Richardson and Sierra Mills won third place for chronological spread. “I felt pretty good, we had really strong graphics, worked hard on design, and had a really pretty book,” says Holly Soboroff. This year’s WHS yearbook staff has already started work on the yearbook. The upcoming yearbook will have a black cover with splatter paint and the word “Dynamite” across it. Homecoming, Powderpuff, clubs, and sports, it’ll all be there, and the memories from this school year will be captured and cherished forever.
In the school year of 2012 all student well receive his or her own computer. “It’s a great idea,” said Chad Wieland, Spanish teacher, The school will have 1:1 ratio, which means all the students that attend the high school in starting 2012 well be assigned their own computer. Students well be responsible for it and must pay approximately $50 for insurance on the computer, it should be about the same amount as the textbook fee at the end of their year they must turn it back in to the school. “By the time students graduate the computer well be four years old and the senior well be able to buy the computer for probably $50(same amount the insurance) from the school,” said Erik Buchholz, High school principal The school is switching to this for many reasons, mainly because of all the benefits it has. To name a few we could have a major reduction on paper. Pretty much everything students would do in the classroom could be on computers. “There would be a wider variety of curriculum for the students,” said Wieland. Photo illustration by Lexi Bratton Other reasons are that it creates an interesting for the students. There will be back up computers for students that need repairs or if they forget the computer.
ATTENTION: If you bought a yearbook and have not picked it up yet, pick it up in Mrs. Soboroff’s room, room 209.
Dance team goes to state Elainie Giardino Freelance Reporter
Maddie Collier Reporter You can always catch Chase Dieleman, ’12, with a smile on his face. That is why it is no wonder that he volunteered his time for IMOM, to improve the smile of other people in need, by helping provide free dental care. “It was a good experience that helped a lot of people that are definitely in need,” said Dieleman. Dieleman’s job was to go around and help to make sure that all stations and surgeries had sanitary water. He volunteered because he thinks it is a great cause, and it helped him to earn silver cord hours. His mother, who is a dentist, introduced him to this opportunity. This is Dieleman’s second year volunteering for IMOM. IMOM, Iowa Mission of Mercy is a yearly convention. This year it was held Nov. 5 and Nov. 6 in the US Cellular Center in Cedar Rapids. Over 1,000 people volunteered. The purpose of IMOM is to provide free dental care to Iowans who may not be able to afford it. The program is first come, first serve. The services provided range anywhere from a simple teeth cleaning to more elaborate oral surgeries. Over 1,500 people showed up to receive nearly $950,000 worth of free dental care. Dieleman said becoming a dentist is a career he is thinking about because he already has a lot of background in dentistry, but he is still undecided.
Tips for a Healthy Smile *Brush twice a day *Floss at least once a day *See your dentist every 6 months *Use mouthwash and scrape your tongue for fresh breath *Use a good toothpaste with fluoride *Drink milk *Make sure you are getting all of your vitamins *Use a straw when drinking sugary drinks *Brush after eating sugary foods
“Poms?” “Check!” “Shoes?” “Check!” “Make-up?” “Check!” “Load up girls!” Nine girls and their coach crammed into the school vehicles, state bound. Friday, December 3, the washington High School Dance Team headed towards state competition in Des Moines. “I was just excited to get out there and dance!” said Linsey Turner, ‘12 State competition is two day event, small schools compete on Thursday and larger schools compete on Friday. The Washington girls performed twice on Friday. Pom was at 12:45 p.m. and jazz was at 7 p.m. “I was definitely more comfortable with our pom dance because we’ve been practicing that one since August,” said Brianna Salow, ‘13. Salow is one of the four sophomores on the team this year. This was her first time going to state. She was the only one who had not competed before. “I was probably more nervous, because I’ve never been to state,” said Salow. The team is made up of nine girls, Alexa Walker, ’11, Hannah Rich, ’11, Linsey Turner, ’12, Brooke Paul, ’12, Elainie Giardino, ’12, Tamera Alexander, ’13, Brianna Salow, ’13, Lexi Marek, ’13, and Morgan Rich, ’13. The girls started preparing for state back in August. They also had a three and a half hour practice the Sunday before state to run through both dances numerous times. “The past few years we’ve become a lot stronger. We are also a very close group this year,” said Rich. This year the girls competed in the 3A category for both pom and jazz. There were 11 schools competing in their pom category and ten competing in the same jazz category. They did not receive a Division One in either of their routines. “ It felt good when we were out ther performing, but unfortunately we were not prepared enough, I guess,” said Turner. The Iowa State Dance Team Competition is the biggest in the united states. With tons of schools and dance categories, This makes for a long day. “I enjoy watching all the different styles of dance,” said Walker.
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Ashley Timmins Ben Hanson
12/17/2010
Washingtonian Opinion
Student to computers 1 to 1: good idea The staff voted 9 to 0 in favor of this view. In the fall of 2012 the Washington high school is going to start its one to one program. There will be one computer for every student to use at school or take home for homework or personal use. There are many advantages to having your own personal computer. Students can take them home to do homework, type up reports, power points, and look up information on the Internet. They will cost around the same price as textbooks. You can also buy the computer when you graduate for fifty dollars. Students will always have their homework with the. Photo by Ben Hanson
“Students can take them home to do homework, type up reports, power points, and look up information on the internet.”
Do you think that it is a good idea to add a Kirkwood Academy on to the new school?
“That is a good idea.” Esbaidi Tafolla, ’11
There are also a few disadvantages to having a personal computer. There is a chance the computer could get lost, broken, or stolen. If it gets broken you would lose all your work and saved work or lose everything. There is always a chance that it could get stolen. Will kids mistreat them if they no they don’t have to pay for it if it gets broken? Even though there are some risks there are less than with a notebook and folder. A student is less likely to lose his work if it’s on a computer than with a notebook. A computer is a better deal in the long run. It may cost a little more but it will be worth it,
“That is a pretty awesome idea,” - Clay
“I think its great,” - Shawn Edwards, ’13
Beam,’12
A brand new school and more opportunities. The staff voted 7 to 1 in favor of this view. As we all know it in August of 2012 Washington will be getting a brand new high school. What people might not know thought is that we will also be getting a Kirkwood Academy along with the new school. As a staff we think this is a great idea. We think that the Kirkwood Academy will make it so that students will be able to have a better opportunity to take classes through Kirkwood. Also we think that it is a better advantage than driving out to the original Kirkwood building or out of town. Now they can just stay at school. Another advantage of the Kirkwood Academy is that you will be able to get a lot more college credit through the new addition. We think that this is really great because kids will be able
Do you think that it is a good idea to add a Kirkwood Academy on to the new school?
“Ya might as well I guess. Then you have experience.” - Alex Mendoza, ‘12
W
ASHINGTONIAN
The Washingtonian staff is currently made up of thirteen members who are responsible for the production of the WHS monthly newsmagazine. These responsibilities include advertising, reporting, design, photography, pagination and anything else necessary to serve their readers. The staff is governed by the Editorial Board. Letters to the editor are welcome. The Washingtonian is printed at the Quad City Times.
Washingtonian Staff 313 South Fourth Avenue Washington, Iowa 52353
Fax: (319) 653-6751 Phone: (319) 653-2143 Email at: hsoborof@washington.k12.ia.us
to graduate and be able to have a year to two years, or more completed before they even start college. A disadvantage of the new building is the experience. With people going out to Kirkwood they had the ‘real’ college experience and got to leave school for a while. As a staff we think that is one big disadvantage because everyone loves leaving school and you don’t get the experience that you would get going out to Kirkwood. In conclusion us as a staff are very excited to see what more the Kirkwood building has to offer and how everything is going to work. Photo by Ashley Timmins
“Yes so students can get more credits.” - Michaela Pierce, ‘11
“Yes so you do not have to drive in the winter.” Spencer Miller, ‘11
“We think that the Kirkwood Academy will make it so that students will be able to have a better opportunity to take classes through Kirkwood. “
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ASHINGTONIAN STAFF
Lauren Vittetoe Co-Editor Jacob Black Co-Editor Amanda Blitsch Copy Editor Ashley Timmins Design Editor Ethan Black Photo Editor Kayley Clark Business Manager Jessica Rivers Business Manager Lexi Bratton Reporter Maddie Collier Reporter
Ben Hanson Reporter Travis Jones Reporter Zuleyma Leal Reporter Brooklyn Reid Reporter Holly Soboroff Advisor Erik Buchholz Principal
Washingtonian Opinion
12/17/2010
Ashley Timmins Amanda Blitsch
“Commercial because I dislike my family.” - Kennedy Shive, ‘12
“Commercial because I like stuff, a lot.” - Mitch Diedrich, ‘12
“Commercial because I like gifts.” - TJ Rausch, ‘12
“Commercial, my parents were made to get me stuff.” - Syth Ryan, ‘11
“I’m pretty commercial because gifts are fun.” - Ryan Tinnes, ‘12
Commercial Christmas
Sentimental Christmas
Christmas is all about the toys and gifts
Christmas is about family, not gifts
Amanda Blitsch Copy Editor
Ashley Timmins Design Editor
It is the Modern Era and Christmas is now all about the toys and gifts. In the last few decades Christmas has undergone a change. It has become about buying the latest technological advancement, coolest toy and other such material objects. Christmas is now about the most well decorated house, the movies they play a million times every year and the songs that get repeated and redone by the year’s newest celebrities. It all begins months ahead of Christmas day. Stores start advertising their sales and deals, televisions play re runs of touchy feely movies followed by commercials of said sales and deals. The schools let out early for the holiday to give students time to shop and decorate in gaudy cliches of reindeer and Santa. The cookie-cutter ideal Christmas of a family gathered around the ornately decorated tree with mountains of presents below it gets shoved at the unexpected viewer as more and more commercials, movies, and television specials play. People see the dead trees strung out in front of stores and their compulsive need to buy is rekindled by the photos of decorated evergreens on the holiday cards. It is time to face it: Christmas is all about marketing and forcing a preconceived outdated idea on the masses, and not about the holiday. By the time Christmas is over the zombiefied brains of the masses are mindlessly repeating the lyrics of carols and ready to buy the things they didn’t get for Christmas in the post-Christmas sales. The color of Christmas has changed from the traditional red, green, and white to the green, green, green of money. Santa has become the tool of the salesman, a trick to get kids wanting to go to the mall to demand presents of a pseudo Santa look alike and to get Mommy and Daddy to go around the mall looking for gifts. Christmas is not sentimental, it is all about the commercials.
Ahh.. Christmas time. The time of year everyone loves. When I think about Christmas I think about music, the smell of fresh cookies and most importantly spending time with friends and family. What is the real meaning of Christmas? Is it the gifts under the tree, the cards in the mail, the lights on the houses, the ham dinners, or stockings hanging? Is this really Christmas? No, Christmas is where we celebrate the birth of Christ’s child, Jesus and spending much needed quality time with the people you love. Many people get lost in the time of Christmas and forget the real meaning. Especially now days with our busy lives. It feels good for just one day to sit around and relax with the ones you love. Even though you’d think all that most kids want is just presents, you’d be surprised to know that almost all of the people we talked to would rather spend time with family and that we had to search for people who would rather get gifts. Even though this surprised me I absolutely love that a lot of people are more focused on the real meaning of Christmas like I am. Sure, everyone likes getting gifts, but the feeling of giving instead of receiving is so much better. Just awaiting the anticipation and seeing the look on their face as they open up their gifts is priceless. Around Christmas time everyone worries way too much and only focus on where their going to go when, who they need to spend money on, how they are going to afford it and how everything is going to be put together. People just need to relax. Make a homemade gift, spend time with your family, save your money, it will all fit into place. Christmas is not commercial, it is all about spending time with family.
“Sentimental because of the music, food, and spending time with family.” - Maddie Weston, ‘12
“Sentimental, because I’d rather spend time with my family.“ Trevor Crossett, ‘11
“Sentimental, because that’s what Christmas is all about.“ Ashtin Walker, ‘12
“Sentimental, because I have everything I want.“ - Chloe Kleinschmidt, ‘12
Are you Commercial Christmas or Sentimental Christmas and why?
VS.
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“Sentimental, because I don’t care about the gifts.“ - Nick Wollenberg, ‘12
Staff Picks Amanda Blitsch Copy Editor Labyrinth is a classic movie from the genius mind of Jim Henson. Labyrinth is a complete win of epic proportions. Who doesn’t like the goblin muppets? Harrowing adventures and fantasy are combined in a thoroughly pleasing way that makes me watch it over and over. The best part of the movie has to be the scene with the Fire Gang. A catchy tune, brightly colored characters, and a fun atmosphere. What is not to love? The only way to know just how awesome Labyrinth is to watch it. I highly recommend it.
Travis Jones Reporter Mario Super Sluggers is the next game in the hit Mario baseball games. Mario Super Sluggers has over forty characters. Nine stadiums four of which you must unlock. Nine mini-games, that are also unlockables. To unlock these awesome features you must beat challenge mode. There are twelve teams; Mario Fireballs, Luigi Knights, Wario Muscles, Waluigi Spitballs, Peach Monarchs, Daisy Flower, Yoshi Eggs, Birdo Bows, DK Wilds, Diddy Monkeys, Bowser Monsters, and Bowser Jr. Rookies. Fun Factor: 5 out of 5
Jacob Black Co-Editor World of Warcraft: Cataclysm is the 3rd expansion in the multi-player online role playing game titan that is World of Warcraft. The expansion increased the maximum level in the game by five levels, introduced more dungeons, questing zones, and two new playable races. Worgen; the werewolf characters, and Goblins; little green entrepreneurs. Personally, I think that the expansion is pretty awesome. Being able to play awesome, butt-kicking, face-ripping werewolves is AMAZING!
Ashley Timmins Design Editor Since I always have dark circles under my eyes, I’m always looking for a good concealer. After loving other Clinique products I’ve tried I gave City Cover Compact Concealer a shot. Firstly-the casing of it is so cute. It is the perfect size for quick touch ups. Although I do not use the brush it came with, it works fine if you’re in a hurry. My only complaint with it is that it can become moist at room temperature, which can cause breakouts. Also it only comes in two colors, so dark skinned people are out of luck. Overall, I give it a 10 out of 10.
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Ethan Black Ashley Timmins Maddie Collier
12/17/2010
Washingtonian Feature
Two sides of the same season, a Christmas tradition.
Amy Adrian, English, in front of a Christmas tree. Photo by Ethan Black
With Christmas fast approaching, the season of tradition comes with it. We all grow up with one thing we do every Christmas. Whether it was going to church, or having Santa sneak in, they vary from person to person. Amy Adrian, English, recounts her memories of tradition in her family. “We always went to church on Christmas Eve, then we had a big party for friends and family at our house,” said Adrian. After the party, the children were put to bed, and Santa Claus would sneak in to put the presents under the tree. For years, Adrian was so excited as a child that she would wake up in the middle of the night throwing up. “I got to open my gifts at 2 A.M.,” said Adrian. One of Adrian’s most favorite Christmas memories is when she received an ALF phone for that year, or when her
father was given a four-wheeler. “He pulled us around on sleds all day,” said Adrian. Christmas time was not always a happy time for Adrian. Tears filled her eyes as she recalled a tough time for her during the Christmas season from when her brother, Mike, ’09, was first born. “I didn’t get any attention,” said Adrian. “I sat upstairs for two hours at my grandma’s pouting, waiting to see if anyone would notice if I was gone. That was a bad Christmas.” The Adrians still hold a party for family and friends on Christmas Eve, but a new set of Christmas traditions are on the horizon.
“Now that I’m engaged, “ said Adrian. “I am expecting new traditions.”
Christmas stockings in Adrian’s room. Photo by Ethan Black.
A Serbian Holiday Ethan Black Photo Editor The thought of Christmas away from home can be tough for some people. It may be because the person is out of state for college, or they may be across the ocean from the rest of their family. This year, Marina Milosavljevic,’12, foreign exchange student from Serbia, will be celebrating Christmas with her host family, Terri, Scott, Bryton and Meredith Lumburg. “I’ll be having two Christmases,” said Milosavljevic. “A Catholic one and an Orthodox one.” Milosavljevic, who was born in Krusevac, Serbia, explained that Christmas is much different in Serbia than it is in the United States. Serbia is a country that has many people who follow Orthodox Christianity. They celebrate birth of Jesus on Jan 7 instead of Dec. 25. Different parts of the country have different traditions, though. “It is different from family to family,” said Milosavljevic. One tradition in Milosavljevic’s family involves a grandparent to choose one grandchild to come to their house in the morning. They would take a oak branch with sugar, salt, butter and milk fat on it, and burn the leaves in a wood stove or on a plate. Meanwhile, money would be put on the branch, and that money would go to the family of the child.
What are you going to do on Christmas break?
When the branch is done burning, different sparks on the burning leaves were for wishes of love and happiness. “I would wake up at 6 o’clock,” said Milosavljevic, “I would go to my grandpa’s for the tradition, and then I’d watch T.V. with him.” Another difference of Christmas celebration in Serbia is that the character of Santa Claus is more associated with New Year’s Eve rather than Christmas Eve in Serbia. The three weekends before Christmas are also important. The first is children’s day, the second is mother’s day, and the third is father’s day. People put a belt around another’s legs until they give them a gift. “When you were a kid, you would crawl on the floor, sneak up to them [an adult], and wrap around their legs,” said Milosavljevic. Milosavljevic is not worried about being away from home this year. She is not thinking much about home, and is concentrating on life here. “I’m focusing on experiencing the culture here,” Milosavljevic said. Milosavljevic has not been thinking of what she wants for Christmas. At home, she usually just gets money. Anything will surprise her, but she loves cards. “Just showing that someone cares and that somebody remembers is a gift enough for me,” said Milosav-
Milosav.ljevic, ’12, Serbian exchange student . Photo by Ethan Black
An illustration of Santa Claus. Photo by Ethan Black
TRADITIONS, GROWING UP, ODD GIFTS, HOLIDAY VACATIONS & MUCH MORE!
Ethan Black Photo Editor
XMAS
An Iowan Christmas
ljevic.
Play basketball and open presents. -Emily Zehr ‘12
Eat and play video games. Colby Counce ‘11
Ethan Black Ashley Timmins Maddie Collier
Washingtonian Feature
12/17/2010
“My dad and grandpa got me a box of saw dust.” Abby Threlkeld, ‘12
“Wool socks.” - Michael Hall, ‘13
“Fruit cake.” - Carlos Cisnero, ‘12
“Flowered pj’s when I was 12, they just now fit me.” Paiton Leyden. ‘12
Odd gifts
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“Big underwear from Sydney Greiner, ‘12 and Johannah Vittetoe, ‘13.” Jordan Mellinger, ‘12
Ashley Timmins Design Editor We all know it, the time is approaching. Lights, music, great food, family and of course gifts. This year kids are wanting cool things like iPods, DROIDS, Xboxes, or new video games like Black Ops. “I hope Santa brings me an iPad.” Said Matt Smith, ’12. Then of course we have those strange relatives that have no clue what to get us or no sense of style and then what do we get? The odd gift. Kids share what the weirdest gifts they have received, and boy are they odd.
“Dog food.” - Austin Weller, ‘12
“My grandma got me deer camo pants one year.” Shannon Murphy, ‘12
“Tampax.” - Braden Visser, ‘12
“An angel candle holder.” -Jake Redlinger, ‘12
“Q-tips.” - Haley Ross, ‘12
“A sewing machine.” Bridget Nebel. ‘13
“A bowl from my son that was lopsided and had no purpose.” - Lynn Loula, English
Christmas Vacations
Logan Moeller,’13 Moeller is going to Walt Disney World and on a Disney cruise this Christmas. On the cruise, Moeller says they visit the Caribbean, stop at Disney’s private island and also make a stop in the Bahamas. Moeller and his family do several things to do on the ship, including multiple swimming pools, game rooms, a gym, a basketball court and even a teen club that is off limits to adults. “If anyone ever gets a chance or wants something really fun to do next Christmas they should definitely go to Walt Disney World or go on the cruise, it’s so much fun,”
Melody Simone, ‘13
She and her family try to go down to El Paso and Dallas Texas every Christmas to see family. Simone said there is lots to do there, shopping, horse back riding, and just hanging out. She said she has a favorite memory of when her and her cousins were horseback riding in the desert, and she fell off and landed on a cactus. “I like it because it is a lot warmer, but there is no snow though,” said Simone.
Katlyn Bennett, ’13
Katlyn is taking a Christmas vacation to San Antonio, Texas to perform at the Alamo Bowl. She and seven other Washington cheerleaders will be on their way to St. Luis on Dec. 26, from there they will be flying out to Texas on Dec. 27. They are planning on being back Dec. 31 just in time for New Years. “I think the plane ride down will be really fun because I get to fly with my friends,” said Bennett.
McKenna Lebsack ‘12 Lebsack and her family go on a Christmas vacation every year. This year her, her parents, her brother, her aunt’s family and another one of her aunts are all taking a cruise to South America and Central America. This is Lebsack’s fourth cruise. On her previous cruises they went all around the Caribbean. She is not sure what she will be doing on the cruise but she is excited. “I’m looking forward to not being freezing cold,” said Lebsack.
Watch Harry Potter with Lauren Vittetoe and eat hot sauce popcorn. -Sydeny Greiner ‘12
Hang out with my friends and family. -Natalee Enfield ‘13
Play baseball and eat a lot. Brad Weatherman ‘11
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Amanda Blitsch
12/17/2010
Washingtonian Feature
X-mas Last Minute Gifts Guide Only have half a dollar?
Travis Jones Reporter
Gifts for a buck
Amanda Blitsch Copy Editor
Walmart: A pack of gum Kum & Go: A granola bar, or a sweet swiss roll. Goodwill: A candle stick, or fabric patterns Dollar General: Christmas card for 50 cents.
Walmart: a Hot wheels car or a can of soup
Hyvee: Hot chocolate mix
Ace: Gum
The $5 budget Walmart: Candy Land, or children’s books Ace: Puzzles
Kum & Go: A bag of popcorn or other snacks Goodwill: Christmas decorations Dollar General: Finger traps Hyvee: A bag of chocolate coins
Kum & Go: Incense, a bag of Combos, or an air freshener Goodwill: Sweaters, Shoes, or a few books Dollar General: Blank VHS tapes, fragrant candles, or five bags of candy Hyvee: Hot chocolate mix
Gifts for $15
$10 for spending Walmart: Clothes, foot balls, or a starter log for the fireplace. Ace: Tiki torches, small cans of paint, or a tobbogan sled Kum & Go: Necklaces for either gender. Goodwill: A play-tool work table, or 11 books Dollar General: DVDs, or a rubix cube Hyvee: Gingerbread house kit, or Birthday cakes
Walmart: A dishware set, or a Toy Story bucket-o-soldiers Ace: Flags, or small singing stuffed animals Kum & Go: A blanket with sleeves and a bag of popcorn, a disposable camera, or a Wendy’s gift card. Goodwill: A bubble spa for the tub, or a small grill Dollar General: A dollhouse Hyvee: Cadbury chocolate biscuts, or a pound of Reeses cups
$20 big spender Walmart: Select Nintendo DS games, or a Coffee maker, a few cans of coffee and creamer Ace: A mini light up tree Kum & Go: 2 burger king gift cards Goodwill: A recliner chair Dollar General: A Payless gift card, toy aircraft carrier, or a Gourmet Girl cake bakery Hyvee: A Santa themed cupcake assortment
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Ethan Black Lexi Bratton
Washingtonian Feature
12/17/2010
9
Do you think teachers and students should be friends on Facebook?
Facebook Frenzy “Yes, it can be helpful to students,” Megan Wollenberg, ’11.
Photo Illustration by Ethan Black
Teacher-Student Facebook Controversy Ethan Black Photo Editor Welcome to Facebook. Millions of people see these words every day when they log in to check who commented on their status, or who uploaded a photo of their fun time at a concert. With the ability to add and talk to friends, family and others, over 250,000,000 people have an account. A major question is whether or not students and teachers should add each other on Facebook. “It can be helpful, because if you’re in their class, you can message them a question,” said Sierra Mills, ’11. In the Washington Community School District, there is no policy against teacher-stu-
dent interaction on Facebook, but Dr. Mike Jorgensen, superintendent, has addressed the issue before with teachers in the district. “It is strongly recommended that these relationships do not happen,” said Jorgensen. Jorgensen is also aware of other school districts in Iowa where teacher-student friendship on Facebook and other social networking sites has been banned, but Mills thinks this could be bad. “It would stir a lot of controversy with the students,” Mills said. “Teachers are people, too. If they want to add students they should.” Kerrie Willis, English, has a Facebook account of her own, and uses it to stay in touch with people. She also uses it to send messages out to the Earthbook staff regarding publicity and communication, which requires her
to add the students involved in the class. Students and former students usually send the friendship request themselves. “Communication with students [on Facebook] needs to be how it would be at school,” said Willis. Jorgensen mentioned that there has been the possibility of talks at the Iowa State Legislature level regarding a ban on teachers communicating with students over Facebook, but other websites like Wikispaces are acceptable. “As long as it [the website] is limited strictly to education, it could potentially be a tool pro-
“Yeah,” Josh Loomis, ’11.
fessionally,” Jorgensen said.
WHS girls shaken by facebook threat Lexi Bratton Reporter We have changed the girl’s names in this story to protect their identity. When Madison updates her status for Facebook from her phone it puts her cell phone number on her profile. She was messaged by a Facebook friend by the name of Justin smith they didn’t have much for a conversation. Then he texted her telling her that he was in the hospital and the drugs he was taking were making him feels horny. He asks her sexual questions and wanted to sext with her. She stop responding to the texts and made a point to ignored him. She kept what was going on to herself, until the police contacted her at school. “I didn’t think anything of it, I just accepted
because I thought he was hot,” Says, Madison. Sean Ellington police officer found out about the story when a parent contacting he because a guy from facebook was asking to sext with their daughter. Sean went to his profile and printed off his friends list. Ellington brought it to the junior high and high school. They brought the girls that had him as a friend in to the office and advised the girls to delete him and explained why the girls should. Sean ran his name and info in the computers. Justin smith doesn’t exist. He called and texted the number that was on his profile and informed the person to whom he was and that he needed to contact Ellington about the case. There was no response. There is no background on who is behind the profile. “The biggest thing to remember with this is
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don’t be a victim,” said Ellington. Another student, Joss got smiths number through messaging him on Facebook. Her and a friend prank called him. They got freaked out after hearing his voice. He wanted the same things from her and her friend as Madison. “His voice matched the picture,” said joss.
“If they want to be,” Kyara Stogner, ’12
Even if his profile is gone he still has all of the girls’ information that accepted his friend request, and some girls phone numbers. “I’m going to stop adding people I don’t know all together,” Said Madison.
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Lauren Vittetoe Jacob black
Washingtonian Sports
12/17/2010
Bean wins coach of the year award Lauren Vittetoe Co-editor
Coach Howard Bean coaches the 9th grade basketball team during their game against Williamsburg.
This past girls track season was a great success. The team did well and worked hard in practice everyday. Howard Bean, the Demon girls head track coach, was awarded Coach of the Year of class 3A at the state track meet. “I got the award during the state track meet and it is a good honor,” said Bean. The coach of the year award is given by the state. Coach Bean, along with a few other coaches around the state, received the award for a job well done and a good
season. “Other coaches from around the state nominate coaches for the award,” said Bean. The award was not only just from the state track meet, but the whole season. “We had a great season which led us to have people qualify for state,” said Bean. The Demons qualified for three different individual events at the state track meet which were the open 800 meter run, 400 hurdles and high jump. For team races the Demons qualified in the 4x4, 4x8 and distance medley. “The girls did a good job all-season round,” said Bean.
Coach Bean instructs a play during Washington’s home game against Williamsburg.
Senior wrestlers reminisce about high school careers
Jacob Black Co-Editor
Zach Walgren
JB.) Do you wrestle JV or Varsity? ZW.) “Varsity,” JB.) What weight class do you wrestle? ZW.) “130,” JB.)What is your favorite wrestling meet in your entire high school career? ZW.) State meet is awesome, it’s like a dream. JB.)What is your least favorite wrestling meet? ZW.) Anything at home. You’re in front of everybody, and if you screw up, and everybody will know. JB.) Do you plan on wrestling in college? ZW.) I’m up and down. I got asked to, but I’m not sure.
Tyler Jaspering
JB.) Do you wrestle JV or Varsity? TJ.) Varsity JB.) What weight class do you wrestle? TJ.)135 JB.) What is your favorite wrestling meet in your entire high school career? TJ.) State wrestling tournament. Didn’t wrestle, but it was really fun JB.) What is your least favorite meet? TJ.) Highland/LNM last year, took six hourse, when it should’ve taken three, at the most JB.) Do you plan on wrestling in college? TJ.) No
Jordan Hoffman
JB.) Do you wrestle JV or Varsity? JH.) Varsity JB.) What weight class do you wrestle? JH.) 175 JB.) What is your favorite wrestling meet in your entire high school career? JH.) Last year against Fairfield, the cancer night JB.) What is your least favorite meet? JH.) Last year East Marshall because Coach Ball yelled at us, a lot. JB.) Do you plan on wrestling in college? JH.) No
What is your favorite winter sport?
Photos by Jacob Black
Basketball. -Carlos Cisnero ‘12
Water polo. -Colin Steele ‘12
Bingo. -Rylie Murphy ‘12
Ice skating. -Tiffany Allender ‘12
Wrestling. -Jordan Kay ‘12
Wrestling. -Lesha Bruty ‘12
ATTENTION STUDENTS! There are still yearbooks in room 209. If you purchased a yearbook for the 2009-2010 school year, PLEASE COME PICK THEM UP! Thanks, J-Pubs Staff
Washingtonian Sports
12/17/2010
11
Ethan Black
Boy’s and girl’s basketball at Fairfield
RIGHT: The final score for the boy’s game. Photo by Maddie Collier Anthony Ossman, ’11, shoots a free throw. Photo by Maddie Collier The girls try to score. Photo by Maddie Collier
BELOW: The boys attempt to make a basket. Photo by Maddie Collier
BELOW: Phil Long, Coach, talks to the girl’s team. Photo by Maddie Collier
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Are you a hard worker? Do you enjoy talking with people? Do you enjoy writing?
Then the Washingtonian wants you! All you need to do is talk to your guidance counselor, and sign up for third term Journalistic Publications! Questions? Talk to Mrs. Soboroff in room 209.
12
jacob black
12/17/2010
Washingtonian feature
Winter driving Students tell of their winter driving experiences
Jacob Black Co-editor
Photo by Jacob Black
Drifting day Tyler Trepanier, ’13, and Shelby Holdaway, ’12 were driving on the morning of Mon. 13. Holdaway was giving someone a ride to a Jr. High student. The students were driving from band class back to the Jr. High. Holdaway was turning a corner near the Jr.
Photo by Jacob Black
High and the car began to drift. Trepanier told Holdaway to pump the gas, and she did. The car’s back wheels spun out and the students slid across the icecovered road. “I told her to pump the gas, and she listened to me,” said Tyler Trepanier
Intersection incident Ashley Combs, ’13, had an interesting driving experience on Sunday, Dec. 12. Ashley was driving by Stewart Elementary School when she turned a corner. The roads were covered in ice and hard-packed snow. Combs lost control, and spun out. She spun 180 degrees, ending up stuck in a snow bank in the middle
of the instersection. Combs tried to go in reverse, but her tires kept slipping on the ice. Alex Mendoza, ’12, and Jacob Black, ’13 had to assist Combs in pushing the van out. The incident stopped traffic in the intersection. “It was hilarious,” said Combs.
In the snow bank
Jovany Reyes, ’13, was driving last winter with her school driving permit. It was past her curfew, and she was following Caleb Peck, ’13, around town. Peck performed a spin in his vehicle on a patch of ice. “It looked like fun, so I wanted to do it,” said Reyes. Photo Illustration by Maddie Collier
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Reyes sped up, and spun on the patch of ice. She lost control and spun straight into a snow bank. Tears poured down Reyes’s face as she thought her car was broken. She called her friends, and they all worked together to get the car out of the snow. “I was scared out of my mind. I didn’t know what to do,” said Reyes.
Photo by Jacob Black