The Bettendorf High School
Growl Vol. 50 Issue 1
Friday, Sept. 27, 2013
3333 18th St. Bettendorf, IA 52722
Opening up to new lockers By Brianna Klabunde Staff Reporter
It all started about four years ago with students pushing for different colored lockers: clean, new black replacing the tan. This simple idea, however, would open the doors for a more indepth process. “We wanted to paint all the lockers black,” Jimmy Casas, principal, said, “but the paint was so expensive we began looking into getting new lockers. One issue has always been the size so it would be nice to have a little bit bigger locker.” The idea of getting new lockers did not resurface until a few years later when talk of renovations for the school became prominent. This is why the lower D locker bay was second on the list to be renovated. “We had already decided we were going to be doing some renovations down in the lower D locker bay with another classroom so it made sense that we would then, at that point, tear out that locker bay and put in brand new lockers,” Casas said. With a total of 1,400 new and bigger lockers to be added into a limited amount of space, there are bound to be problems. “Now the reason we’ve always been able to get away with the smaller lockers was because in smaller schools people share
their lockers. Well, here we always had this year’s freshman class. enough lockers so that everyone had their “Freshmen are split up in every locker own individual locker,” Casas said. bay, any place we can find for them this “When you make the lockers bigger that year,” Casas said. means it takes up more room and you run Music students have also been moved to into problems because it takes up more E-bay for their convenience. space,” he said. This problem has been solved by taking advantage of free hallways, including adding lockers down the music hallway and moving lower D into the art hallway. “The dilemma (in upper D) is going to be that there is really no place to go in upper D other than upper D. Which means once we replace those lockers we are going to lose another number of Ian Campbell opens his locker in E bay. He said, “I lockers,” Casas said. use my car as my locker; I hardly even use a locker. “We are not going to be able to fit an entire class up there.” This proves itself to be quite an issue “The best thing (about E bay) is it’s right since the school has already had problems by music which is the main thing I do,” with available lockers due to the size of said Colton Harksen, a freshman in band
New teachers welcomed to building By Brett Gaydos Staff Reporter Just like a new student, being a new teacher has its struggles. Learning a new curriculum for the first time is like a student in the class. Being comfortable in the building could be a struggle too. With each new teacher coming into the building each one brings their own set of special skills, hobbies, and studies. Ray Knight is one of the new teachers in the English department. He currently is teaching sophomore English, introduction to literature and composition. Before coming to Bettendorf, he went to the University of Illinois where he received his degree. He has also worked with various schools in Chicago and QCA. Outside of the classroom, student council takes up some of his time. During the summer, Knight
was involved in a deck hockey league and played soccer a lot. One fun fact is he bikes to school most days. Amanda Manning is new to the math department. She grew up in Burlington and went to Burlington High School. After graduating from high school she continued her studies at St. Ambrose University where she majored in elementary education. While in college she was a long term sub for Brenda Walker then applying and receiving the full time job afterwards. Outside of school, teaching dance is one of the things she enjoys. In the school she is volunteering with the Goldusters. Matt Nagovan replaces Brenda Walker. Matt has prior experience here at BHS where he student taught the previous semester. After graduating from St. Ambrose University with a bachelor’s degree in
math, a math department job opened up. Outside of the classroom traveling is one of his favorite things to do. He lived in Ireland for four months and during that time traveled through western Europe. Cooking is another hobby. In extra curricular activities, he is a co sponsor for NHS. Other new teachers include English teacher Elizabeth Woolley, math teachers Evan Hartman, Amanda Manning, Matt Nagovan, Marty Resner, and Rebecca Carton; world language teachers Gabi Auerbach, Kim Roas, and Lu Lang; paraeducator Nicole Champion; special education teacher Rachel Cuppy;and vocal music teacher Jeff Knutson.
and chorus. Planning has already started on where to put the lockers that will be lost when Upper D is renovated. “We have to find another location to put another locker bay. I don’t want to put lockers in the hallways because it disrupts classrooms with all the banging, clattering, and hammering,” Casas said. “We’re looking at upperclassmen that don’t use their lockers and factoring them into the equation.” An idea is to ask upperclassmen if they will be using their locker at all, or if they prefer to share with a friend. This could free up a lot more space for other students. It will never be a requirement, though. “We will work with RSVP to find the best way to do that,” Casas said. Though the decision is not final yet, upper D is projected to be renovated before B bay because of long term renovation plans for the business hallway. “If we are going to go in and do some renovations, we’d like to do them all at the same time,” Casas said. There have been no complaints about the new locker bays, and they are definitely a subject of envy to students that are not assigned them. “E bay is the nicest locker bay because its very clean, cool, and not very congested,” Harksen said.
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Opinion
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The Growl Editorial
Be on the right side of history: Social Justice is for everyone
The
S
NARL
On Aug. 28, America celebrated the 50-year anniversary of the March on Washington. It was on this historic day that Martin Luther King Jr. declared his famed “I Have a Dream” speech to thousands of Americans and ultimately changed the course of history. Since the ‘60s, America certainly has seen the day in which “little black boys and girls” hold hands with “little white boys and girls.” As a matter of fact, our generation has seen this nearly everyday of our lives; however, though we have achieved integration, the rights of many citizens are still jeopardized on a daily basis. Last month, Judge Shira A. Scheindlin ruled the NYPD “Stop and Frisk” policy unconstitutional. The policy upheld that citizens would be stopped only with “reasonable suspicion” and that criminal activity would reduce accordingly; however, nearly nine out of 10 stoppedand-frisked New Yorkers have been completely innocent, according to the NYPD’s own reports. And since the vast majority of those who have been stopped —a full 89 percent majority, according to a study by Northeastern University—are black and Latino, this means hundreds
Sept. 27, 2013
of thousands of innocent New Yorkers are being racially profiled by the very officials who take an oath of objectivism. Even now, though the policy has been ruled unconstitutional, the main concern still exists. The police, be it consciously or subconsciously, target black and Latino Americans as criminal citizens before they do white. Current LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender) issues have also been a hot topic for social justice. On March 27, talk of Prop 8 and the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) swept the news as the Supreme Court debated the constitutionality of these laws. To clarify, Prop 8 banned same-sex marriage in California since 2008 while the DOMA denied federal benefits to gay couples who were legally married in their states since 1996. Fortunately, the Supreme Court ruled in favor of same-sex marriage on June 26, stating that both of these laws are unconstitutional and that same-sex marriage is legal within the citizen’s relative states. This does not mean that marriage is automatically acceptable in all states, however. Only 13 states have officially legalized gay marriage thus far, leaving 35 states in which same-sex
partners cannot get married. Additionally, the issue of bullying in schools is still problematic for LGBT students. According to the National Youth Association, LGBT teens are bullied 2-3 times more often than straight teens. Because of this harassment, more than one-third of LGBT teens attempted suicide in 2012. Alexander “AJ” Betts took his own life at the age of 16 over the weekend of July 27, becoming the fifth student from Des Moines to do so in the past five years. Sheryl Moore, Bett’s mother, said her son was constantly ridiculed not only for being gay, but also because he was half black and was born with a cleft lip. In other words, AJ committed suicide because he was harassed over things he could not control. Lack of control also affects gender issues within the subject of sexual assault. Every two minutes, someone in the United States is sexually assaulted, yet 97 percent of rapists will never spend a day in jail according to RAINN (Rape, Abuse and Incest National Network), America's largest anti-sexual violence organization. Alternatively, women subjected to rape are often blamed for the assault based on their level of intoxication, clothing,
etc. Some government officials, such as former U.S. Representative Todd Akin, have even asserted that women’s bodies can block unwanted pregnancies in the case of a “legitimate rape,” a statement scientifically proven to be incorrect. Because of these fallacious arguments, innocent citizens have been denied the justice which would otherwise be granted to them following their case. Consequently, victims have been condemned for another’s lack of self control. Not only are these social injustices important; they are few among countless issues we face today. All citizens are influenced by their country’s laws and regulations, whether they are aware of it or not. We have finally reached a point where blacks and whites can attend school together, gays can be married and women can lead careers, but we cannot stop here. Room for progress is always open and, in a just society, equality is crucial. MLK stated 50 years ago that “our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter.” This belief, pivotal to the civil rights issues of the leader's time, still holds true today. Take a stand. Be on the right side of history.
Wise Words From GG: By GG Yearbook Editor Hi! I’m GG and I don’t shower every day and you shouldn’t either. The whole showering every day thing is a habit that has been installed into American culture and it is dumb. The average person takes between 8-18 minutes to shower. Okay, I just made that statistic up, but it seems accurate. The majority of people jump to a negative conclusion when I tell them I hate showering; however, the positives of my hygiene habits undoubtedly outweigh the cons. Showering is a waste of time. It is not that I do not like waking up early to shower, it’s just I would rather use my time to do something actually productive, like watching an episode on Netflix or beating a few levels of Candy Crush. Plus, I am saving the environment by not wasting water. Also the whole “rinse and repeat thing”
Sanitation Proclamation is the most outlandish thing I have ever heard. Okay, if you want to be weird and shower every day, that is fine. But frankly, if you wash your hair twice in one shower, there is something seriously wrong with you. Today however... I took a shower. Yes, yes, it is horrible I know. For the sake of journalism and justice, I actually showered on a Friday, which is very rare because Friday is so close to the weekend so there is really no point. Now, the only difference between this real shower and my ingenious morning routine is that my hair was still wet when I arrived at school. Easily fixable. All you have to do use some sort of spray bottle. If you are all about saving planet earth, then recycle an empty Febreze bottle, and if you are anything like me, you should have many of these laying around. Another way to get your hair wet is to stick your head under the sink to dampen your hair, and no one will know the
Growl Staff
Editors: Jordan Raso and Allie Weis Sports Editor: Michael Conner Reporters and Photographers: Brianna Klabunde, Alex Connor, Amanda Kane, Brett Gaydos, Dana Waterman, Aimee Plante, GG Columnist: GG bettgrowl.com Editor: Aimee Plante Adviser: Connie King Mascot: Newsie The Growl is a member of the Iowa High School Press Association (IHSPA) and the Journalism Education Association. Visit us at bettgrowl.com. “Like” us on Facebook (bettmedia).
The Growl accepts all signed Letters to the Editor by the student body. Letters may be edited for length, grammar, and clarity. Letters may be dropped off in D100, journalism lab or emailed to bhsgrowl@gmail.com.
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difference because if you follow the rest of my brilliant steps you will look and smell squeaky clean. Most people do not realize the obvious health benefits of not showering. It is pretty highly sophisticated science stuff, so let me break this down for you simple minded showering folk. Human skin needs moisture. This moisture can come from a number of things, such as water, sweat, and natural oil. The water aspect comes from your bath or shower, or sanitizing the skin with a soap product. Sweat, on the other hand, although it supplies moisture, leaves an unwanted aroma that may counteract the goal we are going for here. Last and definitely not least, the best way to moisturize your skin is by allowing your natural oils to do their job. According to the New York Times, hydration through natural oils leaves skin softer than any skin product on the market. This may seem weird and uber gross; however, to clarify, there is a distinct difference between your natural scent that comes from the oil in your pores and body odor that comes from sweat. I am sure by this point the majority of you think I am some nasty hobo, but I am just being practical. Please understand when I say don’t shower, I don’t mean that you should come to school smelling like severely traumatized roadkill, especially some of you underclassmen that already smell. What I mean is, you have to beat the system and smell fairly decent without the
shower. I realize this does not apply to many of you athletes because y’all work hard being active with those sport things... Yeah, you guys should shower or email me, and I may be able to make you a more intense step-by-step process to the art of not showering. However, to the rest of you, save yourself some time, effort and shampoo and join the movement #TeamNoShower (patent pending).
Sept. 27, 2013
News
3
Door policy opens new year International students
learn about Iowans
By Brett Gaydos Staff Reporter With new security standards in place, students are quickly learning how to deal with the new system. With all of the recent shootings across the country, it was very important to have a solid security system. After the school day starts at 8:15, no one is allowed through side doors. The only way to get into the building is through the main doors, marked 3W. “We want to make it as hard as possible for the bad guys to get in and add another distraction,” police liaison officer Bruce Schwarz said. To enter through the main doors, students must have attendance buzz them in. All visitors, including students, must state what their business is to be allowed in. Once inside the main entrance, everyone must go through the attendance office. Upperclassmen are allowed to go off campus for lunch, and seniors are allowed to leave during off blocks. After leaving the building, students are not allowed to enter through the side doors, except during the last 10 minutes of lunch. “Yes, it is an inconvenience, but this is in place for the safety of our students,” security officer Walt Powell said. The new policy has been carried out throughout the district. The biggest threat is someone entering the school through side doors after lunch. BHS is the only school in the conference to have
open campus, a privilege administration is doing everything possible to keep, but at the same time keep the school safe. Another recent change with policy is the new rule that all doors must stay closed at all times. In August, during a regular inspection by the fire marshall, all door stops were removed from classrooms and offices. If a fire were to start in the building, keeping the doors closed would prevent the fire from spreading. “Keeping the doors closed is the law, and we are required to follow the law,” principal Jimmy Casas said. The only way to keep all doors open would require a lot of money. Magnets that would be synched to the fire alarm would have to be installed on every door that opens. In a fire emergency, the doors would automatically close containing the fire. Adding each of these special door magnets would be close to $1,000 per door. “Eventually most doors will be able to be open, but it will take time and might be done in sections throughout the school,” Casas said. “We want to create a welcoming environment here at Bettendorf High School.” These new regulations and policies are put in place to maintain a safe environment for everyone. “If you don’t think that something bad could not happen to our school, you are wrong,” Casas said.
by Amanda Kane Staff Reporter students. “It’s not every school you get “School is too long for me!” said Salum, an iPad,” said junior Idah Murithi. BHS “[but] I think the schedule is cool. I like it.” has welcomed many new faces this year, There are also many cultural and climate including students from around the world. shifts between America and their home Through an exchange program, four countries. new students came from very different In Kenya, “[there were] no fancy backgrounds. For many of them, it is their hairstyles, no phones, no iPads,” said first time out of their home country, not Murithi. to mention a new high “The climate is very school. Among them different from Tanzania; a are Idah Murithi from couple of days ago it was Kenya, Fey Salum cold; now it’s hot again,” from Tanzania, Fatou said Salum. Diouf from Senegal, But what is the biggest and Zaira Shaikh from difference of all? Food. India. Though nerves “The food is very are high, they are filled different here--too much A host family welcomes a with excitement. cheese…I really miss my “America is a very new member. home country’s French cool place to stay in. I fries,” said Murithi. thought it’d be awesome,” said Murithi. Salum agreed, “There are no good fries The students are staying with multiple here!” host families in Bettendorf throughout the Some of the host families have been school year, so many BHS students have getting a taste of some traditional dishes been involved with the new students. from their students’ home recipes. “It’s cool; people are helpful,” said “We made a Kenyan and Tanzanian Diouf. dish. His host family couldn’t stop licking School in the U.S. is different than their fingers,” said Murithi about Fey and other countries in many ways including herself. schedules, classes, and atmosphere. Through all of these cultural differences, “At my old school, the teachers moved BHS has given these international students and the pupils were stagnant. Here the a very warm welcome. teachers are stagnant and the pupils move, “People here a very nice, they’re very it’s very different,” Murithi said. understanding,” said Murithi. The block classes are also new to some
Features
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Sept. 27, 2013
‘Rumors’ abound in theatre dept. by GG Yearbook Editor
children do not attend the show; however, everyone above the age of 13 will Rumor has it the theatre thoroughly enjoy watching the lawyer, the analyst, and the seductive department will senator’s wife scramble be putting on a to save their unconscious hilarious play next month, mayor. and the rumors are right. Ty Lane, sophomore, This fall, Troupe 542 will be debuting in his presents “Rumors” by Neil first mainstage production Simon, the first non-musical at BHS. play ever to be performed “‘Rumors’ is probably in our new Performing Arts one of the most hilarious Center. plays I’ve ever read. I Featuring a multi story love my character because set, the show takes place in I get to be so over the top an upscale mansion in New and obnoxious. Everyone York, where four couples should definitely come deal with the peculiar and see the show!” Lane situation that arises at their Seniors Jason Nankivell said. posh dinner party. The set for the show When the help and hostess and Issac Bries build one is one of the biggest go missing, the characters of the 6X4 walls for the and most impressive become frantic in a manner intricate two-story set. sets the school that will have the audience has ever had. Something incredible gasping for air in laughter. Featuring some adult language and happens when these students take a humor, the production staff suggests that sketch on a piece of scratch paper and
turn it into a masterpiece that they all can share pride in seeing on stage. Designed by the department’s president, the set shows off the talent of the technical crew that spends countless hours in the scene shop to present to the public a piece of art that will make their jaws drop. Senior Max McInnis takes on multiple roles in the upcoming production, playing Ken Gorman on stage, and Max, the set designer, off stage. “I am so thankful to the Howards for trusting me to take on this project. Seeing my ideas become a reality is really awesome!” McInnis said. Having been working extremely hard over the past month, the cast and crew of “Rumors” would love it if everyone would come see the show, they guarantee it will not disappoint.
Junior Ellie Stamper and sophomore Ty Lane watch rehearsal during one of their breaks in Act II.
SOUP reactivates, hosts diversity choose to defend others’. “We are all influenced by [these issues] and we are all interconnected, even if one issue does not seem to pertain to us,” said The colorful mural Gutierrez. This year, the club plans to host local located within the Modern Language hallway is a events such as poetry slams and diversity mystery to some. One girl happily slides banquets along with participating in the down a spoon while the other three students nation-wide Day of Silence, in which students gather around the bowl and smile. But why? do not speak to emphasize the dramatic effects of bullying among The painting, created LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, by Trenton Mendoza, Bisexual, Transgendered) Paige Taylor and Emily adolescents. Norveisas, was erected “I can’t wait to get back in 2002 to commemorate there,” senior Geremey BHS’ original SOUP Club. Groves said about This year, SOUP attending the first meeting. (Students Organized to “I felt like I could actually Unite People), led by say what I wanted without seniors Kylie Gutierrez being judged, and it felt and Aimee Plante, is a club great to throw in some dedicated to promoting ideas that have bothered the value in diversity me for quite some time.” and equality. Students Other efforts to promote in the club are currently equality are also being collaborating to extend established. Senior Taylor an attitude of acceptance Amey hopes to form an by backing the rights of LGBT club known as the all races, genders, sexual The SOUP mural in the Gay-Straight Alliance orientations and mental Modern Language Hall was (GSA) within the next illnesses. painted by students. year. “We basically want Though the two clubs to inform the student body of issues they don’t know about,” said will not be merging this year, Amey said he Gutierrez. “If there is something they want to is “willing to co-sponsor campaigns [such as the NO H8 pledge] to get as many students work towards, they can make a difference.” This attitude, however, is nothing new at involved as possible.” SOUP’s next meetings will be held on Oct. BHS. Matt Johnson, a senior in 1999, led the 2 after school and Oct. 3 at 7:30 am in Mr. first official SOUP meeting in hopes of Eizyk’s room. The focus will be creating emphasizing the importance of diversity a school-wide project on which the club and respect. The same year, news of the members will vote. The principles which SOUP aims to Columbine shooting spread throughout the nation, leading to the club’s burst in promote have not changed with time, popularity. Students sponsored one-act plays, still lingering in the halls, often going attended conferences and painted murals to unnoticed much like the club’s old mural. decorate the halls until the club’s eventual Going unnoticed, however, does not mean potential is lost. SOUP still stands today decline in 2005. The current SOUP Club hopes to as a revolutionary force in shaping an allemphasize the same principles today as encompassing, accepting world. students begin to act upon their rights and by Aimee Plante Online Editor
Reduce, reuse, recycle “I recycle and I do not use my hairdryer. I try not to wash my clothes every day,” Gutierrez said. Washing machines can emit up to As the next school year comes into full swing, so 160 pounds of carbon dioxide per year, are a wide range of diverse according to National Geographic, so it is clubs for students to get involved in. One vital to cut back. The SAVE Club has been involved in is the SAVE (Students Against Violating the Earth) Club, run by Barbara Jacobsen, many events such as Coats for Kids, a foundation established in 2004, distributing a science teacher. coats in over 37 states “I have always been according to coats-for-kids. involved in recycling,” org. They also have collected Jacobsen said. “I started tennis shoes to be recycled. a club in my high They are planning to do the school.” same this year. The club meets every The SAVE Club also highly Thursday morning to enforces recycling at school. discuss topics involving “We went through the the environment, stands at the football games including recycling. with bags for recycling,” “We want kids to Jacobsen said. ”People were be more conscious,” very willing.” Jacobsen said. “Our Over 75 percent of waste motto is ‘reduce, reuse, is recyclable, but only 30 recycle’.” percent of it is recycled, The SAVE Club according to dosomething. has posted signs in Charlie Coffey and org. Americans throw away classrooms listing Barbara Jacobsen hundreds of millions of bottles ways to conserve, promote recycling in per day, which could easily be these include: taking Upper D bay. recycled. shorter showers, turning “It’s all about making the extra effort to monitors and lights off when leaving the room, and turning a couple degrees up or make the difference,” Jacobsen said. The SAVE club is a very welcoming down on the thermostat. “There is only a select group of our of new members and is hoping to gain a generation that chooses to acknowledge bigger attendance. “We’re awesome, people should join,” it,” senior Kylie Gutierrez said. “It all Coffey said. comes back to you.” Countless classrooms at BHS are Members of the club have their own supporting the push for recycling by ways of conserving at home. “I recycle… also, I don’t drive, I walk putting out bins for students to recycle their papers in. If every American recycled everywhere,” Charlie Coffey, senior, said. Walking drastically cuts down the one-tenth of their newspaper, it would save emission of greenhouse gases, which over 25 million trees every year. Every pollute the air, and are linked to global little effort counts in the struggle for a warming. According to americanprogress. healthy environment. “We want action,” Jacobsen said. “We org, emissions have also been connected to need kids to get involved.” many respiratory diseases. by Amanda Kane Staff Reporter
Sept. 27, 2013
Features
Marching in step for fun, unity by Jordan Raso Co-Editor
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is “The Who,” including the popular song, imagined myself as a drum major,” Weaver is a cadence,” Weaver said. “We have one “Pinball Wizard.” Directing the marching said. “Absolutely no. I was worried that when we march on the field and they play band are instructors Mike Dynes and Chris I wouldn’t be able to march, let alone them after we get off.” “BAND TEN HUT!” conduct a whole band.” The marching band not only performs The drum majors’ voices Saito. “[We get to] watch students of all age The marching band performs in every at football games, but also travels to echo over the hundreds of and ability level home football halftime competitions all over the state. Their next parked cars as they call the marching band to come together show. contest is in Linn Mar on Sept. 28. to attention. in an organized “The first time you “Competitions are fun because you “GO DOGS!” team,” Saito said. are nervous, but then get to watch other schools and meet new The quick answer back is a familiar “My favorite part you realize there are people,” Robnett said, “One time when we one to marching band members and is seeing students over 100 others, so were traveling on the bus, I fell asleep and any students arriving to school after the grow into leaders.” if you make a little someone drew on my face with colorguard morning bell rings. Saito and Dynes mistake it is hardly makeup.” The Bettendorf High School Marching noticeable,” Robnett Marching band is not only an enjoyable Band consists of 130 students who practice are assisted by three drum majors, said. experience for the students involved, but every morning during first block in North junior Megan Marching band is also the directors leading the group. Lot. The chained off area, dubbed the Fleming and a unique class, not “My favorite part about marching “band lot,” is closed for all of first quarter Sarah Franciso, with Peyton Ford, seniors Lindsey only because it is for the band to practice. Gabby Riordan, Libby Weaver and and Alaina Berkenbosch, said, “When we held outside, but also This fall has been interesting for band Matthews because musicians of members, having practiced for the first Mallory Weaver. go to and from competitions, all the “Some people football game in blazing heat, but then, just sections are together on the bus. You all grades participate. think being a drum “You have all the two weeks later, in temperatures barely learn everything about each other. major is easier than grades together, so above 60 degrees. The flutes are really fun to be with.” marching, but it is you become friends “Marching band is more entertaining than more complicated,” with people from concert band because you are not sitting,” Matthews said. “You have to know every grade,” Beck said. senior Megan Beck, tenor saxophone, said. “You get immersed with a ton of people,” “My parents made me join marching everyone’s part, not just your own.” Tasks that drum majors are responsible junior Sarah Francisco, flute, said. “During band, but I keep signing up because I love for include setting up podiums, conducting my freshman year, some my best friends it. It is addicting,” junior Max Robnett, warm ups, printing off extra music and were seniors. We all understand each other; trombone, said. answering student questions. it is that band kid mentality.” The show for this marching band season “It is very rewarding to help all “As a freshman, I never would have “Band is like one big family because the underclassmen improve you are acting like siblings and learning on their marching ability. I from each other,” Robnett said. “It is like am proud to be part of that,” the freshmen and sophomores are like Weaver said, conducting the the younger siblings, and the juniors and band at a football game. seniors are the older sibling role-models.” One favorite for marching band members, as well as the crowd, is drum band is the accomplishment that comes cadences. from building the entire show from got to see what it was like behind the “The drum cadences are fun to dance scratch,” Dynes said. “The process that camera,” Ryan said. “It was a little difficult to,” Francisco said. takes the show from rough to a polished because if the director called cut, you had Drum cadences are played by the performance.” by Brianna Klabunde to remember what you were doing when drumline during football games and Francisco said, “We’re like a mini-army; Staff Reporter he called action again. It was also cool through the halls on homecoming, a we’re marching and dominating the field. I to experience working with actors on popular event for students. totally forget it’s a football field.” While on a cruise to Tampa to Cozumel, television.” “Each different song that drumline plays Life in California was different for the Mexico, freshman Megan Schade was Schade family than what they were used to. chosen along with four others out of 1,200 “The biggest difference was the weather. by the Barbizon Acting and Modeling It was beautiful year round. It was a lot of Agency for an acting scholarship in fun to be able to visit the beach whenever Huntington Beach, California. With an we wanted. We lived about five minutes agent of her own, she spent seven months away from the beach. My great aunt also there, auditioning for any part she could. lives in the area, so it was nice to be able to “My sister was working with a modeling visit her a lot,” Ryan said. agency, and they said that this cruise was a Throughout the time great opportunity to get work,” they spent there, the two said Ryan Schade, her twin were home schooled so brother. it wouldn’t interfere with “My mom and sister were their auditions. just hoping for maybe a picture “It would always be a in a magazine or something, possibility to travel up to not an acting scholarship and Los Angeles for auditions move to Southern California!” and stuff and not have to “We took acting lessons. worry,” Ryan said. There were three eight-week One $1,000 scholarship will be awarded to a student Both also swam from each sponsoring school. sessions,” Megan said. For details about this event contact your guidance counselor competitively as well. “The time we went was a or visit our website at www.sau.edu/iqccp/ Megan continues to swim slow period, so I went on an at BHS. audition and I made it to the You might feel like a kid in a candy store trying to select a college or university. “We met a lot of new finals, but I wasn’t picked,” and interesting people and This college fair is a great place to sample over 100 colleges and universities. Ryan said. made new friends through Megan and Ryan After a few auditions, Join us for the college fair to get a taste for colleges and universities: Megan finally got a part in a Schade shooting a pilot our swim team,” Ryan said. Megan and Ryan’s • Admission Steps episode at the UCLA scientology video. • Campus Visit Days parents were very campus. “This was our “Scientology is what a lot • Financial Aid and Scholarships supportive of their first gig,” Ryan said. of actors believe in. The video • Academic Programs/Majors experience. The family was about drugs and what • Extra-Curricular Activities and Sports moved back after the they do to you. It was a lot of scholarship ended, but they are planning Rogalski Center - St. Ambrose University fun,” Megan said. “It was different seeing on moving back eventually. 518 West Locust Street, Davenport, IA what they believe in compared to other Located at the intersection of Ripley and Lombard Streets. However, the siblings differ on whether religions.” Parking will be available in the Rogalski Center lot. Megan and Ryan also got parts or not they would pursue acting. “For me, no,” Ryan said. “I liked the as extras in shows like “Good Luck Sponsored by: experience we had but I would prefer not Charlie,”“America’s Most Wanted” and Assumption High School Bettendorf High School Central High School North High School North Scott High School Pleasant Valley High School West High School “Bunheads,” as well as several pilot to act.” “I think I might get back into it when we St. Ambrose University Scott Community College episodes that may or may not air. move back,” Megan said. “Being on the set was fun because you
“California Dreamin’” takes twins to Hollywood
Features
6
Sept. 27, 2013
College, scholarship choices start now By Jordan Raso Co-Editor College. That one word can send seniors shivering from excitement or freezing from fear. Either way, college is coming and will be here in a blink of an eye. As seniors start deciding their futures, many factors go into consideration. “The most important things to look at when picking a college are if they have your major and if it is a good program,” Kristie Henson, guidance secretary, said. “[Ask yourself if] the college feels like the right place for you.” It is also a good idea to keep college options open to include more than just the three state schools, The University of Iowa, Iowa State University and The University of Northern Iowa. “Students have the natural tendency to focus only on their state colleges, which is fine,” principal Jimmy Casas said, “but it is important to keep in mind the other options that are available.” Casas recommends looking outside the state. “[You] may not be aware of schools or their programs that have great reputations for different programs,” he said. Chances of attending that college of choice can be increased by knowing what will make one stand out on college
applications. All colleges look at GPA, class rank, ACT/SAT scores, along with what the student is involved with, in and outside of school. “Being involved in various organizations, volunteering, showing leadership and commitment are a plus,” Henson said. “Don’t be afraid to state your accomplishments!” Students may postpone their college search until senior year, but Casas said, “Don’t wait until senior year, start as soon as possible.” “When to start the college search depends on the student,” Henson said. “I would recommend starting in the middle of your junior year. This will help you determine what type of campus you are looking for. Then... [before senior] year, condense your list of colleges and focus on the ones that make you feel at home.” Another important part of college is scholarships. With the cost of college rising, not to mention having to pay for room and board, books, food and other expenses on top of tuition. Receiving scholarships for help is becoming a necessity for students all over the country. Senior Christine Kao, who is looking at Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) for computer science, is applying for any scholarships available. “Why would you not apply for a scholarship? It’s free money!” Kao said. Several links for available scholarships
can be found on the guidance office website on the far left side under “scholarships.” Students can also talk to Henson or their counselor in the guidance office for more information. “The Internet is a great reference [for scholarships],” Henson said. “Also, look at the colleges you wish to apply at.” Henson recommends that students get a “brag sheet” from their counselor to give whoever is writing the recommendation letter. Students should list their accomplishments, club/organizations they are involved in, as well as their strengths and weaknesses. The earlier the better is best when requesting recommendation letters. “Give teachers, coaches or employers a few weeks to write the letter,” Henson said. “Students should ask teachers that know their strengths and what they are made of. You should ask a wide variety of people.” No matter if they are going to a state school or a college on the other side of the country, Casas believes BHS students have the “adaptability to go [and] thrive in different environments.” A handful of seniors already know exactly where they want to go and what they want to study, including Kylie Gutierrez, who wants to go to the University of Northern Iowa (UNI) for social work. “I really liked the campus and I feel like I would really fit in there,” Gutierrez said. “UNI is called the ‘little big school’
because it is big enough that you don’t bump into people, but small enough so that you are not drowning.” Not all students want to stay in Iowa, however. “I am excited to be independent and get out of Iowa,” senior Max McInnis said. “I want to go to either SAIC (School of the Art Institute of Chicago) or RISD (Rhode Island School of Designs), because they are two of the best art schools in the country.” Perhaps the most vital part of college searches is college visits. Students are allowed two excused absences for college visits but can receive more with permission from an administrator. “Involve your family from the beginning,” Casas said. “Go with parents on college visits.” “I feel [college visits] are essential!” Henson said. “You will get a ‘feel’ of campus life and what there is to offer. You may need to visit a college twice if it is a place that you really like.” College visits give students a glimpse into what their future could hold, a big factor in helping with the tough college decision that must be faced before receiving the diploma. “You just never know,” Casas said. “You may step on that campus and know that it does not feel right, but you may feel right at home and know that that is where you want to be.”
Balancing jobs and school Pregnant... or think you might be? Balancing school and a job at the Like Brownson, junior James Gomez same time can be tough, especially when also works at Happy Joe’s. By Alex Connor switching from the summer hours. When “I make sure to finish all my homework Staff Reporter homework, tests, quizzes, before and after sports and extracurricular I work. Although activities, like football games, work does As the school year begins, schedules are get in the way, it is hard to find sometimes conflict printed, homework is assigned, tests are the right time to get everything with club activities,” taken and Friday night football games are done. Gomez said. attended. Finding a way to make it all fit “I feel No matter what into a schedule takes like it’s hard students do, whether an organized system to sometimes it is a sport, a club, make sure everything when I have a choir, or a job, goes as planned. Those a lot of keeping organized who have to balance homework,” is key to balance school schedules along Brownson everything together with work schedules said. especially in certainly know what Several the work world. to do. w a y s Showing up late to “Currently I am students keep Gomez works the register at work, or not at all, is working an average o r g a n i z e d Happy Joe’s. never a good idea. of 12 hours a week i n c l u d e Working can to balance with my keeping a create a lot of great school activities, but planner, taking off days memories, especially for those who love during the winter and that will have excessive their jobs. summer months I homework or a test the “The best memory of when I was work an average of 25 Crites makes coffee for a next day and planning working was during a tornado warning hours a week to keep ahead. over this past summer,” Coffey said. “We customer at Dunn Bros. me busy,” senior Baily “I think I balance brought all the customers in the store to Abbott said. school and a job very well the coolers at the back of the store and all Whether working at HyVee, like because as soon as I know my activities the employees had to go outside and bring Abbott, or Happy Joe’s, like junior Megan start, I cut back my hours and talk to my in all the carts. Turns out no tornado came Brownson, students work hard to maintain workplace so they know what is going on,” and it was a waste of time.” good grades, a social life and a good job. Abbott said. No matter if one is not employed, or “As a senior in high school, classes have Some students even know how to balancing one even two jobs, keeping been easier and require less attention,” balance two jobs along with school. organized can help make any situation senior Charlie Coffey said. “I currently “It’s all right as long as you don’t mind easier to handle and is a good lesson to put my job as a higher priority than school three to four hours of sleep a night,” senior learn early on in life. because of the easier classes and because Frankie Crites said. “I love all the free ice Jordan Zugmaier, senior, who works they pay me.” cream at Whitey’s, though, and I like Dunn with Abbott and Coffey at HyVee, said, Coffey is an employee of Hy-Vee and Bros because I always smell like coffee.” “Balancing a school and job is pretty easy. has been working there since May of his Crites works at both Dunn Bros and To be honest, it’s probably this easy because sophomore year. Whitey’s Ice Cream. I don’t get much, if any, homework.”
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Sept. 27, 2013
Sports
7
Football aims to conquer MAC By Mike Conner Sports Editor
offense very dangerous. Simply put, having a good running game causes any fake hand-off to be deadly, because the defense is so focused on the running back. In essence, having an excellent running game makes for an excellent passing game. Another weapon on the Bulldog offense is senior receiver Tyler Scheib. Being one of the tallest receiver on the roster, Scheib finds ways to get open on most pass plays, racking up many yards and touchdowns in the process. “I just do whatever I can to help the team win. Of course, the ultimate goal is to win in the state championship game,” Scheib said.
Coming off lackluster season, the Bulldog football team looked to prove they were once again the state championship contending team that they are known for. The Bulldogs have done just that with their strong start to the season. One of the areas of concern heading into the season was how the offense would shape up after losing many starters from last year. However, the Bettendorf offense has been the cornerstone to the high quality gameplay of the Bulldogs this season. Leading the offense is junior quarterback Cyle Cox. Cox is a dualthreat quarterback, as he can not only throw the ball well, but he is also a quick and strong runner. Tyler Scheib catches the first touchdown of the season One of the key against the Lancers members to the explosive offense A good offense means nothing unless is senior running back John McLaughlin. the team has an equally good defense. The “When the offense line makes holes Bulldogs have just that; a powerful defense like ours does, it makes it easy for me to that gives the opposing offense nightmares. perform well,” McLaughlin said. “We have A big part to the defense is senior a lot of passion coming into this season, linebacker Sam Ambrose. Ambrose is one and we are going to make a serious run for of the few players on the roster that earned the state championship.” MAC awards last season, being named to McLaughlin’s versatility makes the
Second Team All-MAC. not to. Having the starting quarterback out One of the reasons the bulldog defense with an injury, along with referees who looks to exceed this didn’t seem too fond of the year is because they Bulldogs (one of the calls are returning nine was “spearing,” a penalty starters from last for leading a tackle with the season. Ambrose helmet, where the Bulldog says this is one of defender made a clean the big reasons the tackle with the shoulder) defense is so tough made it tough for the team this season. to get any sort of rally “The experience going. from last season In the end, it all comes makes our defense down to how the Bulldogs more comfortable play in when it comes to and our chemistry Mark Wells awaits a pass from playoffs. With a healthy together makes quarterback Cyle Cox Cyle Cox, no turnovers, us tough to play and the continued high against,” Ambrose said. level of play by both the offense and Another important member to the defense, the football team should have no defense is senior defensive lineman Matt problem being one of the toughest teams to Albert. A menace to any quarterback, beat in the state. Albert seems to always find a way to get by the offensive line and lay the smackdown on the opposing quarterback. With all the good and bad teams in the MAC, Albert says that he does not take rankings very seriously, since they are just listings on paper. “The rankings don’t mean much,” Albert said. “We were ranked third in the state at the beginning of last year and didn’t end out on top. We just plan on beating every By Brett Gaydos team we face.” Staff Reporter Though the ‘Dogs had a tough loss against fifth-ranked Pleasant Valley, they As the boys golf are still in great shape to win the state team tees it up this fall, championship. expectations are and The football team will be the first to not will be running high. make excuses for the game, but it’s hard Last year’s team took eighth at state, with all but one player returning this season. Eight players play for six varsity spots, so competition is always present among teammates. “Competition is a great thing that we have right now,” said Alex Pohlmann, senior captain. ”It keeps us focused and playing our best all the time.” The team has been close bond. ranked in “You get to hang with people you the top three wouldn’t usually hang out with,” Mooney said. “We have team bonding parties in Iowa for of and everything. Practices aren’t too hard most the season, because you know you aren’t alone.” it “Swimming seriously creates so many making a target for memories. We spend over 20 hours a week together and become one big family,” other Iowa teams. Team Westerkamp said. Westerkamp is captain of the swim team v i c t o r i e s and is very involved in what goes on in her put added pressure not Elkins tees off at the team. “As captain, I am always working only on the MAC tournament. outside of swim practice whether it’s with whole team, teammates, an upcoming event or becoming but on each a better athlete. This does not include time individual player. “Being ranked so high does put a lot for invites, Saturday breakfasts or team of pressure on us, but at the same time it dinners.” gives us the confidence that we can always Swimming is a 90 percent mental and be playing our best and be at the top of our 10 percent physical sport. It takes up a game all the time,” said junior Mitch Elkin. large amount of time and energy, but Getting mentally focused is also some moments make all the dedication a large part in the success of the golf completely worth it. team. Chris Like, boys golf head coach, “My best swimming moment was when constantly reminds players to shake off bad my relay team found out we qualified shots and keep playing hard. for state at the after regionals party,” “A round of golf is a marathon, not a Westerkamp said. sprint,” Like said. “It may seem really difficult at the time, The team’s long term focus is on the state but the practices are there to help you golf meet in Marion on Oct. 11. and help you be conditioned and be good “The state tournament means a lot to at what you do, which is swimming,” us,” Pohlmann said. “We feel that we can Mooney said. compete with any team in the state and play at a very high level”
Swimming sweetens early hours homework, eat, and sleep,” Gist said. Swimmers work hard to make sure that their work pays off during swim meets and to become better swimmers. “During the practices I feel tired,” Gist said. “I feel good after them, though; it “As one of my coaches said, the makes it worth it.” first time you think you need air, you don’t. Four hours a day are usually committed to The second time you swim team practices, think you need air, you where swimmers don’t. The third time you either weight train or think you need air, you swim to get in the best probably don’t, but the shape possible. fourth time you think you “I love morning need air, you probably practices. It is the need air, and the fifth initial getting up that time you feel you need is the worst, but I love air, you better be taking the feeling of already a breath,” senior Kelsey accomplishing more Westerkamp said. by 7 a.m. then some For most swimmers will in their whole on the girls swim team, day,” Westerkamp swimming isn’t just a said. “I also love sport, but also a way of knowing breakfast is life. waiting in the locker Waking up and being Back Row (L-R): Kelsey room!” at the school as early Westerkamp, Maddy Burnham, Swimming takes as 5:15 in the morning and Caroline Mooney. dedication because it some days, Bettendorf Front Row (L-R): Hannah involves commitment, swimmers are dedicated Crane, Shannon Crane, Lauren discipline, and is a to their sport. Ramirez. physical and mental “I’ve been swimming challenge. Swimmers since I was eight,” junior have to watch what Caroline Mooney said. Mooney also swims they eat, focus on school and balance any with a club, and so does Westerkamp and extracurricular activities that come their sophomore Rachel Gist. way. Luckily though, the swim team has a “My schedule is basically swim, By Alex Connor Staff Reporter
Golf exceeds expectations
Homecoming 2013
8
Events
Footloose: Homecoming week is what you make of it. Every day there are crazy ways to dress up and events going on. Be sure to make your week as fun as possible and show some school spirit by getting involved with the homecoming week activities.
Spirit Week Themes: —Monday: Superheroes —Tuesday: Camouflage —Wednesday: ‘80s day —Thursday: Class color
Freshmen: Blue Sophomores: White Juniors: Green Seniors: Pajamas
—Friday:
Black and Gold
Voting for homecoming king and queen will take place from Monday, Sept. 30, until Thursday, Oct. 3. Ballots will be sent to your school emails.
Sept. 27, 2013
one team, one town, one dance
Events: Sunday, September 29: *Float building at the bus barn at 3 p.m. This is open to all students to come help build their class float for the Parade. *Bonfire in north parking lot at 7 p.m. There will be food, bags, and fun.
Wednesday, October 2: *Come watch the powderpuff football game as the seniors in orange face off the juniors in blue. The cost to enter is $2 or three cans.
Thursday, October 3: *Come watch the homecoming parade on 18th Street with a pep rally imediately following. Homecoming king and queen will be crowned at this pep rally.
Friday, October 4: *Drumline parade through the hallways *Pep assembly during fourth block *Come support the football team as they face off against North. Candidates for king include Nick Baer, Tyler Dunlavy, Jonathan Gunti, Eric Hale, Michael Lintz, Matt Penrose, Kolton Schlichting, and Dylan Sortillo. Candidates for queen include Haley Bankson, Elizabeth Culliton, Lexy Jurevitz, Michelle Larsen, McKay Matheson, Julianne Trizzino, Dana Waterman, and Anna Willey.
By Allie Weis Co-Editor
Saturday, October 5: *The dance will take place in the gym from 8:30-11 p.m. Tickets are $7 in advance or $10 at the door.