Cupcakes, Dating & more
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A student’s experience with Internet activism
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Hollywood Comes to Call
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City High School1900 morningside drive, iowa city, iowa 52240 issue four/volume sixty-nine - 1.28.11 www.thelittlehawk.com
Iowa City’s Choice: An ordinance that would protect illegal
immigrants is on the City Council’s agenda. by Nora Holman & Emma Gier able to demand papers from somebody because of simply the color of their skin or the sound of their voice,” Massey said. “We don’t need concentration camps and fear mongering [to have a safe community]. The City Council has the authority to approve this one step for justice.” Sarah Swisher, an activist for sanctuary cities, believes that illegal immigrants have a natural right to feel safe. Sanctuary cities fufill this right by “allowing immigrants to fell feel safe working with the police and other city workers because the city staff will not inquire about their immigration status.” However, not everyone agrees with the ordinance. “I have no problem with illegals feeling uncomfortable…they ought to,” J.J. DeRyke, an opponent of sanctuary cities said. DeRyke said that he doesn’t oppose immigrants, just illegal ones. He also argues about the fairness of the proposed ordinance. “I don’t think it’s fair to the people who go through all of the work of getting here legally, meet all of the requirements, and suddenly others just sneak in the back way.” DeRyke also believes that passing the ordinance would attract more immigrants. “Remember the old movie ‘The Field of Dreams’? The line: ‘If you build it, they will come’. If you set up a sanctuary city, they will come.” Whether or not more immigrants will be attracted to Iowa City, supporters of passage maintain that ethical obligations to fellow humans should not be ignored. The eyes of supporters, opponents and the rest of the world will be on the city council next week when the important vote will be cast.
art by julietteENLOE
Postville, Iowa was the target of the largest immigration raid in U.S history on May 12th, 2008 when U.S Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents stormed Agriprocessors Inc., a kosher slaughterhouse. The agents arrested nearly 400 workers. The workers, who were mostly immigrants, were charged with identity theft and document fraud because of their possession of false identity papers. Hundreds served months in prison and were then deported. Despite a heated national debate about immigration and near-daily coverage of the topic, Iowa’s collective consciousness was shocked by events so close to home, such as the Postville raid. Considering that personal stories are missing from the constant stream of rhetoric spewed by some Congressmen and women, it’s easy to forget the human consequences of bureaucratic strife. As a result of this, some community members in Iowa City are advocating that the community should become a Sanctuary City for illegal immigrants. There are more than 50 sanctuary cities in the United States, however there are none in Iowa. Within the Midwest there are four sanctuary cities: Madison, Chicago, Minneapolis, and St. Paul. The term sanctuary city is given to communities that don’t require people to disclose their immigration status when reporting a crime. On January 31st the Iowa City City Council will decide whether or not to become a sanctuary city. The Sanctuary City Committee drafted the text of the ordinance and components were borrowed from other sanctuary cities. Sam Massey, Pastor of First Presbyterian Church in Iowa City, believes that passing the ordinance is an issue of human rights. “Neither the police nor anybody else should be
January 28, 2011
Ampersand
VALENTINES
by Alexandra Perez & Ethan Zierke
Roses are red, violets are blue, your Little Hawk love experts are here for you. If you’re seeking advice or one to pursue, your specialists can tell you what to do. If you’re timid and shy or bold and courageous, then let your love be overly contagious.
Dear Little Hawk,
My older brother has lots of hot senior friends, but they all see me as their friend’s little sister. What can I do to get them to see me as more?
Get to know the one you’re chasing after and try to establish a friendship before taking it any further. Try to keep it on the D.L. so your brother won’t freak out and lose any friends over it. Should you decide that your feelings for this boy are stronger than you previously thought, confront him and tell him how you feel. Don’t be afraid to talk to him. It’s better to talk about it sooner and figure it out rather than wait until later. If you wait, chances are, you’ll never end up doing it. After talking with him, take his thoughts and feelings into consideration and think about things before you go ahead with anything. Sincerely,
Dear Mack, I’ve liked you for a long time and I think we should be together. I think about you all the time :) Will you be my valentine?
Taylor Dengler,
Dear S. Chambers,
You make me feel like I’m living in a teenage dream.
Will you be my valentine? I’m ready for change and you’re my divine. I can’t get you out my mind
-anon
Jefu,
Dear Lucy,
Will you be my valentine? I love you! Will you please let the dogs out with me?
Go to medical school so we can be nerds together :)
Love, Bryan
Love, Destinee Happy Valentine’s Day, Muffin! Love you! N. Duffy
Sincerely,
MY HEART
YOU MAKE
You have the most beautiful skin tone
This sounds like quite the predicament. Coming from an experienced masculine viewpoint, I can say that there comes a time in a man’s life when he feels he must expand his wardrobe beyond the drab, everyday attire. Many times this requires some experimenting in the field of cross-dressing in order to reveal his underlying sense of style. My advice to you is to just tag along for the ride and support him along the way. His extraordinary sense of style is merely a phase many men of the world go through every day. His metamorphosis has the potential to be a very beautiful thing if nurtured properly.
EZluvin’ & Sweet Cheeks
Sweet Cheeks & EZluvin’
Ajay Gupta,
I have a bit of a problem. My boyfriend is really great, but lately he is always asking to borrow my skirts. I’m not really sure why. Can you help me with my problem? Dear Skirty Situation,
Dear Ambitious Underclassman,
Love, Anonymous
Dear Little Hawk,
Bianca Leal will you be my valentine? XOXO Jared Cardenas:)
Dear Archy, Pop Tart, Neighbor Cabbage, PJ/Ernie, You guys are the coolest kids ever. And I love you. Happy Valentines Day to all you wonderful people!! Love, Nemy/Beast/Fred
Emma Baxter, you are the light of my life...psych! but really you’re an okay person. love, Mikiel Dear Bailey! I love you Ma! -Tripp d
Do you have a BandAid? Cuz I scraped my knee falling for you?
Longhorns;)
Dear Sam Bills, You are the wind beneath my wings and you carry me to the heavens, where I can touch the stars. Never leave me. Love, your secret admirer
Happy Valentines Day Des, love you to the moon and back!
Burkle, Oh, how i love spending endless hours with you at the pool. The gleam in your eyes when you yell at JV and laugh at Varsity is like a sparkling star in the night sky. Please fill the empty spot in my heart with your love and be my valentine. Your admirer
Gina, Unless you love someone nothing else makes sense. Thanks!
Dear Rog, You buy us pizza, so you’re okay. love, the staff Natalie Jones, Will you be my valentine? -Disciplined yet Juvenile
Dear Sweet Cheeks, I feel like our relationship has grown since working with you on the love advice column. I hope you have a Valentine’s Day filled with mushy drama. Love, EZluvin’ Dear EZluvin’. You’re a pretty fly guy, and my home skillet bisquit. Good times in the newslab, we make a great team! lets write another insightful story together soon! Happy V-day! love, Sweet Cheeks. ;)
ACNE? Love, Your secret admirer
From, a friend
Mr. Rogers
Has this been an unwelcome addition to your life? If so, we’re right down the street. Iowa City Dermatology Susan Wall, MD and Erica Colleran, MD
Located on First Ave. midway between City High and Regina 269 N 1st Ave Ste 100 Call today for an appointment! 319-339-3872
www.iowacitydermatology.com
Fernando Pacheco,
Emma Gier, I’d catch a grenade for ya -anon
Dear Levi, I have been miserable and alone ever since you were eaten by the T-Rex. It tore me up inside and my heart was truly broken. But now I have an iPad. <3 Bernie the dinosaur
-anon xoxo
Dear Aaron Ottmar, You are my fire. My one desire.
Kara,
???
-Bailey F
Love always, Lindsey
Adam S,
To J. I love our quality talks babe, you’ll be my valentine forever. P.S. Chung tunkies all the way
Tripp d!! I love you sooo much!!!
THUD
Do your legs hurt? Cause you’ve been runnin through my mind all day :) Sam Buatti Dearest Andy McNulty, We are soul-mates, you’re mah dawg. Be my valentine? Love you Love, Nicholas Brian Donohoe Alexandra Perez, I just need somebody to love, and if you come with me, there’s gonna be one less lonely girl! :) -anon David, Glad you liked the apple! :) XOXO -anon
Dear Adam, Hey, I like you. Love, Emily
January 28, 2011
News
Standing Up for City High by Cassie Wassink
Stand up for City High is a three-phase plan to improve City High’s athletic facilities, beginning with the construction of a new 1,650-square-foot, two-level Alumni Building with new restrooms on the first floor and a new Alumni Viewing Area on the second floor. Phase two of the plan consists of removing the existing restrooms in the Press Box, allowing for a more spacious concessions area with multiple service windows, upgrades for the second and third floors of the Press Box and resurfacing of the building’s exterior. The third phase will take place simultaneously with the first two, consisting of new lighting for the entire sports complex and of new space between and around the Press Box and the alumni building to allow students, families and friends to gather. If fundraising goes as planned, phase one is set to begin at the end of the track and field season in 2011, with the goal of completion set for the start of the 2011 football season. John Balmer, a member of the campaign’s committee, described his main motive behind his involvement in launching the campaign. “Need was there to enhance facilities at Bates Field,” said Balmer. “The restaurant facilities are ancient.”
NEW PRESS BOX: A two-part plan to update Bates is set to begin at the end of this school year
Balmer graduated from City High in 1967 and has since sent four children through City High,. He says that the restaurant facilities have not changed through all of that time. “They don’t present a good image for City High,” said Balmer. After launching the campaign, Balmer’s main involvement has been through soliciting funds, specifically targeted at individuals and small businesses in the community. Balmer’s main method of fundraising is to describe the campaign’s impact on the long term future of City High. “I think that to be viable going forward, we need to do this,” said Balmer. John Bacon, principal of City
High, is another member of the campaign’s committee, which entails meeting regularly with other campaign members to discuss the campaign’s progress. As principal, Bacon has many goals for City High. He described the way that these general goals coincide with the goals of the Stand Up for City High Sports Complex Campaign. “We are the school that leads,” said Bacon. “And we want to have the top facilities.” Bacon mentioned the school’s marching band, track team, and football team, describing his desire that these groups all be given the best facilities. Bacon went further to describe Bates Field’s iconic position in our town. “Bates Field is an important
part of Iowa City,” said Bacon, “and it brings a lot of people together.” According to Bacon, this campaign will help to remove traffic around the concession stand and restrooms. The last thing that Bacon addressed was the issue of controversy over the allocation of City High’s funding. “Nobody has to contribute if they don’t want to,” said Bacon. “It’s all built on private donations.” Bacon also discussed the work that he is doing with the school board in an effort to build an addition to the performing arts facilities. Balmer, too, presented a take on this issue. Making no pretense to diminish the significance of such large funding, Balmer described City High as a package. “Just like performances at Opstad, it’s all part of the package,” said Balmer. “It’s like replacing windows for your home.” While the windows do not immediately affect the floors, they all work together to furnish the home. While this campaign will directly impact City High students, it has yet to reach publicity among this demographic. When asked about their knowledge of the campaign, many students knew nothing about it. The campaign’s website can provide more information, which can be accessed from the City High Athletics page.
M&M Offers Community to Students by Kieran Green For many students at City High, religion, along with politics and sex is a topic that is generally avoided in conversation. From the Scopes Monkey Trial to recent controversy about prayer in schools, American education has been defined by a secular aura. However, some students have found ways to share their faith inside a school setting, as part of the M&M (Morning Missions) Program. “Lots of kids want a place to share about their lives and faiths, and a lot of the time you really can’t get that in public schools,” said club sponsor Greg Grove. “M&M offers a chance for students to come together, pray, and have fellowship together in an environment where that normally would not be possible.” Morning Missions meets on Tuesdays at 7:30 in the choir rooms. Meetings tend to last for about 20 minutes and breakfast is usually made available. “Kids really appreciate the opportunity to have these types of discussions,” Grove said. “It’s a great ministry to have here at City High.”
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January 28, 2011
News
The Breakfast Associates Start Strong by Ellen Carman & Oli Peters As winter break ends and 2011 starts so does the new academic support group, Breakfast Associates at City High. After FAME failed to draw members, City’s administration looked to find new ways to help kids at City High become better students. “We want to form a cohesive group that can rely on each other,” Emily Dvorak, Freshman Dean said, “and that can also be a leader in other things that they are involved in.” Breakfast Associates have four main goals for their members. One is a focus on academics. Setting goals like turning in assignments and studying for tests is a key part of this. Another component is future planning or starting to think about what students need to do to prepare for life after City High. They also focus on leadership and teamwork. “We believe that all of our students have these skills,” Dvorak said, “But don’t always realize they have them or use them at the right time.” Students who have come to the first meetings have begun noticing an improvement in their grades and work ethic.“ [In Breakfast Associates], goal setting has helped me the most.” Mackenzie Fluaitt said, “When I know I’ve set a goal for myself I can achieve it.” Breakfast Associates meet at 7:30 a.m. on Mondays and Wednesdays. They also provide breakfast for members.
Looking forward to another City High theater production? The award winning Broadway musical, How To Succeed in Business Without Really Trying, will be produced by the City High Drama Department. Troy Peters, director, Janet Schlapkohl, costume and assistant director and Doug Lestina, tech director, will be in charge of the show. “We are looking for bold actors with a lot of confidence,” Peters said, “that aren’t afraid and timid.” The musical is based on the satirical book by Shepherd Mead.
Photography Photo restore by Emma Baxter
Students gather in the SAC for a meeting of The Breakfast Club. Over pop tarts and cereal, they discuss their goals for the week.
“Breakfast Associates (club) is a nice way to get kids doing something productive in the morning.” Assistant Principal Ann Browning said. Breakfast Club got off to a late start, and is still taking shape. The idea behind the club is to provide an at school option for kids to get help improving grades and preparing for the future. The district had extra money to create a program like this at City High. “There were other clubs that tried to take shape,” Dvorak said, “but for whatever reason they didn’t happen.”
Spring Musical Features New Music and Dance by Emma Baxter
now,briefly
Peters’ plans to follow the plot as closely as possible. “It’s about a window washer who finds the book How To Succeed in Business Without Really Trying, He uses the ideas in the book to get ahead in his job,” Peters said, “that’s a major theme in the musical, getting ahead morally or by other means.” The musical will have big dance numbers and upbeat songs. Along with important life lessons. Auditions will be held the first week in February, and the performance in early April. “I hope people that are not familiar with the music give it a chance,” said Peters, “it’s bound to be entertaining.”
City High Yearbook
thanks the following businesses for their support:
Banditos • Graphic Printing & Design • Iowa Book & Supply • Perkins Orthodontist • Mark Mitchell Radon Mitigation • The Iowa National Guard • The University of Iowa Community Credit Union • Uniquely INK. The Printing House If you would like to advertise with our yearbook and have your name here please contact Adviser Jeff Morris at: morris.jeff@iccsd.k12.ia.us
More specifically, FAME. The club was started after Fas Trac left City High. Students refused to join, accusing FAME of attempting to replace Fas Trac. “FAME was never meant to replace Fas Trac,” Browning said, “However a lot of kids thought of it that way. Fas Trac is still part of the Iowa City community, but it no longer has a direct link to City High. Not many students are part of both Fas Trac and Breakfast Club, but some are.” “The more things that kids are involved in,” Dvorak said, “the better.” On Wednesdays the club is
planning to bring in guest speakers to talk to kids about how to plan to graduate and prepare for college. “I’m glad I joined breakfast club.” Mahogany White said. “I have something to look forward to that helps guide me, keeps me on track, and helps me with the SAT and ACT prep.” So far the club has about 20 members, but is hoping to grow as soon as they get a strong idea of what the club really is. “The more kids that we can influence the better.” Browning said.
Debate team sweeps tournament
From left: Shecharya Flatte, Jeff Haidri, Drew WIlson, Carl Sessions, Henry Wright, Kieran Green, Raychel Skay, Ava Vargason and Thomas Panther
by Max Friedman The City High debate team dominated the Kanellis overnighter at West High on January 8th and 9th. Varsity policy A-team Carl Sessions and Jeff Haidri won the tournament, beating out Dowling Catholic in the finals on a 2-1 decision to take first place. Sessions was the top speaker of the tournament and Haidri was third. “I wasn’t surprised,” Haidri said, “considering the amount of work we put in beforehand, as well as the tradition set down before us from [Luke] Allen and [Noah] Rocklin.” Novice policy team Ava Vargason, ’13 and Andrew Chudzik, ’11, lost in finals from a team from Chicago. This was only their third tournament debating together. Vargason was the tournament’s
second novice speaker, and Chudzik was the third. The other novice policy team, consisting of Raychel Skay, ’14 and Henry Wright, ‘14 lost in semi-finals, after a prelim record of 4-1. In Lincoln-Douglas debate, sophomore Drew Wilson ended prelim competition with a 4-1 record. He made it to quarter-finals before losing to a tough Burlington team. The debate team’s season is almost over, but there are a couple of major tournaments left with the nationally-attended Homewood Flossmoor occurring in late February and Districts happening in Cedar Rapids on the 10th and 11th (where Sessions and Haidri will hope to qualify for the National Debate Tournament that will occur over the summer).
Mrs. Harper’s photography class is working on a new project called Photo Restoration. The students in the class are restoring old, torn, and faded pictures to their original state. They are creating digital copies of the photos that can be printed off. The students are working with Adobe Photoshop and are learning skills that will give them great career opportunities. Anyone can give their old photos to students in the class and they will restore them free of charge. Mrs. Harper is hoping to have a beforeand-after display once they have enough restored photos.
Jazz Band Show
by Emma Baxter City High’s Jazz Band Showcase will be February 12, 2011. There will be five jazz bands performing, including two from Southeast Jr. High. There will also be a special guest performer, Robert Washut. Washut founded the band Orquesta Alto Maiz and released Gemini, a jazz CD along with Chris Merz in 2006. Southeast’s Jazz Band will perform at 5:30 and City High’s Jazz Band at 8:00 in the cafeteria. “This is the greatest experience for jazz kids,” Ryan Arp, director of City High’s Jazz Band said, “They’ve been working so hard for this show.” This year the show will have a nightclub atmosphere, with a variety of songs. This showcase is the main fundraiser for the Jazz band, they use the profits to buy new equipment and music. “It’s going to be the best,” Arp said, “I’m stoked!”
Come to The Jazz Band Showcase!!! Valentines Day Packages: $20 For 2: 2 tickets, Candy and Balloons $65 For 4: 4 Tickets, Candy, Balloons, and Sparkling cider
January 28, 2011
News
Farm to School: Organic and Local foods in the Cafeteria chapter was formed in September 2010 by a community group of better school food and local food advocates. This chapter is part of the Iowa Farm to School program which is administered by the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship and the Iowa Department of Education. The chapter is affiliated with the Johnson County Local Food Alliance. How is this going to impact City High? Teachers and staff who are already involved in school gardens or who are interested in starting one are invited to attend a meeting at the Iowa City Library in early February, where they will discuss how to most helpfully involve the Farm to School program with the ICCSD schools. Erin Randal, kitchen manager
at City High, supports the idea of working with Farm to School to Randal. “We serve such a high Every day, the school cafeteaffect school lunches. In fact, for amount of people.” Randal described the main ria is filled three successive times two years obstacles as issues with a huge variety of food. SimCity High of consistency and ply by walking past the many has been quantity. tables, one will see an incredible getting ap“We are still assortment, ranging from differples from loin the planning ent homemade ethnic foods to a cal orchards, stages of our projmore generic cheese and salami in an effort ect,” said Heather sandwich. Yet certainly there are to buy loWidmayer, ICCSD some patterns within the lunch cal. It is not Farm to School room each day, as the featured always simCoordinator. “We school lunches can be found ornaple, howdon’t know what menting countless trays throughever. The - Heather Widmayer, type of project will out the room. Farm to School is an fact that the ICCSD Farm to School Coordinator be most useful organization that hopes to affect apples were for the schools, or what those uniform lunches are not all the which school we and to at least increase students’ same size will work with.” awareness of what they are putmade them Thus there are many possible outting into their bodies. difficult to distribute evenly. The Iowa City Community “It just depends on wheth- comes of this meeting. These inSchool District Farm to School er we can or can’t do it,” said clude conducting a workshop to train people how to build a school garden, expanding an existing garden program, or launching a new garden program. As Farm to School learns who is interested on the Would you enjoy more andabout local in such a project and what their Howorganic do you feel needs are, they will decide what food options for school lunch? Bacon’s policies so far? project will be the most effective. This meeting is for all schools in the ICCSD, so it may not directly affect City High, but City High staff is certainly invited to attend the meeting and represent one possible school for the Farm to School organization to work with, so there will be a City High “He students. “I think thatfood beingwould able be presence at the meeting. “I encourages would like knowing “Organic “I like food that’s bad for “I bring my lunch. I don’t I thinkmy that hiscame teaching to use cellphones and ” Furthermore, even if this prowhere food from.” better for the school. you. It tastes better.” really care.” style is-Alex a really good iPods is super cool!” ‘11 gram does not directly impact Moen ‘13way -Devin McEleney -Blaize Noard ‘12 -Claire Jacobson ‘14
by Cassie Wassink
SPOT
to approach education.” -Maura Channon ‘11
“We are still in the planning stages of our project,”
.
. .
-Kara Hartley ‘13
.
.
.
City High, Farm to School is working to become more prominent in the ICCSD as a whole, planning to make its presence known in many of the following ways: getting kids thinking about where their food comes from and how it is grown providing hands-on food activities for school students such as school gardens, in-class cooking demonstrations, and composting systems helping kids make healthy food choices adding more local foods to school meals and snacks supporting the local food economy. More information will be disclosed following the February meeting, but don’t get too comfortable with your featured “school lunches,” because change is becoming quickly apparent.
Check out our website for more links!! www.thelittlehawk.com
New Snow Policies Change Traveling existence doesn’t make the system flawed,” said Shecharya Flatté ‘12. “It On an icy December morning late makes it impossible for City High to go last month, a school bus carrying the to a variety of competitions in a a vaCity High JV wrestling team flipped riety of sports and activities, severely over on the way to a meet, injuring sev- limiting our ability to compete, espeeral students. Though no one was killed, cially on the national level.” it has prompted a re-examination of the Other students have been more supdistrict’s policy towards allowing travel portive of the administrative changes. for extra curricular activities during “I think that its good that administrawinter, prompting controversy among tors are thinking more about the kinds the student body. of weather that they’re The changes that sending us into,” said have been made to the Alex Lemus ‘13, a memsystem, for the most ber of the wrestling team “[The bus part, are minor. that had crashed. “When “[The bus accident] acccident] we were on the bus and presented us with an it flipped over we were opportunity to evaluate presented us with traveling in icy weather our practices and make an opportunity for with no seatbelts, it just improvements,” said made it that much easier us to evaluate our Principle John Bacon. to get hurt.” The school has practices and make Many students have made improvements improvements” also seemed to transition to the automated callwell to the new condiing system, as well as tions. providing bus driv- -Principal John Bacon “It’s not that big of a ers with an inventory deal. Our coach just came of information about to us and said that from students should an acnow on we’d need contact cident occur. However, some students information and that was pretty much are concerned that the changes could it” said swimmer Thomas Chudzik ‘13. lead to restrictions on student travel, Administrators have attempted to with administrators being less likely to address concerns, but at the same time let students travel if there were a risk of remain adamant as to the purpose of inclement weather. the new policies. “While I agree with the procedural “We’re always going to put safety changes, any restrictions on travel are first when thinking about these things, unnecessary, and will cause great hin- we’re endeavoring to make the best drance to all school programs. Having possible decision,” Bacon said. an issue once in 70 years of the school’s
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January 28, 2011
A&E
Oscar Prospects Max Friedman
KNOW A GENRE--
HARDCORE PUNK by David Steinkruger
Will Benson
A current employee of Sycamore a longtime movie buff, Friedman’s looking for a developed story, humanist Theatres- looks for deep characters with a plot that maintains interest. acting and strong cinematography
Inception
The King’s Speech
Colin Firth (The King’s Speech)
Bridge’s charatcter is Rooster Cogburn, a tough US marshall who teams up with Mattie Ross to track down her father’s killer. Bridges’ acting ability really shines as his relationship with Mattie develops over the course of the movie.
Firth warms hearts with his role as King George VI. He pulls off the job by having incredibly witty dialogue throughout the movie, while keeping the stuttering intensely realistic, but not ignorantly disrespectful.
Natalie Portman (Black Swan)
Jennifer Lawrence (Winter’s Bone) She plays a teenager trying to keep her family together in the Ozarks, while her meth-dealing father gives the house up as collateral for bail. This portrayal of the backwoods life is genuine as well.
Christian Bale (The Fighter)
Christian Bale (The Fighter)
A former boxer who is now training his boxing brother, Mickey Ward (Mark Wahlberg). Bale shows his substantial talent as he evolves throughout the movie. His devotion to the role is powerful, which in turn effects the beauty of the movie.
Bale plays a ex-boxer crack addict who believes he’s starring on an HBO special on his comeback, where it’s really on his drug addiction. Usually he’s a tough guy or hero, so it shows his flexibility as an actor.
Hailee Steinfeld (True Grit)
Kunis’ skill lies within her ability to make the viewer unsure Lily is good or evil: if she’s on Nina’ side or trying to steal the role from Nina’s grasp. Her versatility as an actress really shows.
The remake of the John Wayne Western has the young actress holding her own with a cast of big names such as Jeff Bridges and Matt Damon. She delivers with a demanding presence and has a snappy charisma about her.
Hey Jesus! Who’s your favorite for best picture?
“Tron Legacy”, BRO! Daft Punk and The LightCycles were EPIC WINS!
Supporting Actress
Mila Kunis (Black Swan)
ck hly with Jesus and o R ont the Buddha M
Supporting Actor
Portman’s character is a young ballet dancer who is the lead for Black Swan. Portman’s acting superior acting ability is shown as her character is transformed from sweet and innocent to seductive and frightening.
Best Actress
Jeff Bridges (True Grit)
Best Actor
The story is of King George VI and his rise to the throne of England, who at first could barely speak in public due to his stammer. The conversations between the king and his new speech therapist Professor Logue (Geoffrey Rush) are authentic and unforgettable. Takes place just prior to WWII in a time where inspiration was vital for the moral of the citizens.
Best Picture
The acting of Leonardo Dicaprio is fantastic as he portrays Cobb, a man who can travel into others dreams to plant ideas. The visual effects are stunning, from crumbling buildings to zero-gravity fight scenes in hotel rooms. The directing of Christopher Nolan is excellent and the story and conclusion of the movie are perplexing and wonderful at the same time.
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It’s 6:30 am on a Tuesday morning and the last thing I want to do is to get up and go to school. I can already hear the obnoxious sounds of the hallway along with the normal, high school drama. I can already feel the melancholy catching on and I grimace as pull on some jeans and a t-shirt. But as I get into my car, I put the key into the ignition and out comes sound from the speakers. It’s Have Heart’s “The Unbreakable” and it hits me like brick to the face. The song expresses an act of unselfish gratitude from a man towards a world that may not even know he exists. This man stands up and keeps a grip on his mind that allows to be, “The warmest heart in the coldest world.” As the song plays, I yell along as I feel the fast aggressive beat in my heart and a tingling sensation move through my body. Before I know it, the song is over and I am at school ready to take on whatever comes. Have Heart was a hardcore punk band from Boston that evolved from a local hardcore scene. Eventually this scene has grown to a nationwide movement and a forward way of thinking. Bands that contribute to this movement would be BANE, VERSE, HAVE HEART, YOUTH OF TODAY, CHAMPION, CEREMONY, and even local Iowa bands such as BLACK TEETH, TAKE CONTROL, and MODERN LIFE IS WAR. These people felt deprived of certain quality that would make them “normal,” so with a punk influenced way of thinking of a “do it yourself” mentality, they made a scene where anyone was welcomed no matter what their social status. A scene that could understand their side of the story. A scene that would treat them as a human being. A community has often been the term to describe theses local scenes around the world. Local scenes have influence on their communities from the area around them and each scene may have different opinions, but all share a trait that is very rare in a social world today, acceptance. As I walk into the bleak doors of school, I feel the emotions of these bands and have a sense that every word they shout is truth. Their lyrics have taught me to be a person with acceptance etched in my heart. A man who believes in what is right and defends those who may not belong. A person who loves the world, that may not even love him back.
The Little Hawk Horoscope “your destiny...revealed”
Aquarius (Jan 20-Feb 18) Watch what you eat. Step away from the Hostess shelf or become the giant Twinkie!
Pisces (Feb 19-March 20) The cosmos has decided to grant you one wish. Close your eyes and think of the one thing you want most in the world (hint: SNOW DAY).
Aries (March 21-April 19) If your New Year’s resolutions have lasted this long, you will shortly become a god.
Taurus (April 20-May 18) It’s time to remember the good things in life. Frozenburritos. Fire.
Gemini (May 21-June 20)
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Just because you don’t have a feature written about you doesn’t mean you’re not special!
Cancer (June 21-July 22)
Valentines day is just around the corner. You will see couples gettin’ lovey-dovey in public, but don’t fret! Take pride in the fact that you are superior to them.
Leo (July 23-Aug 22)
Jupiter is looking bright. Take a chance and...go stargazing.
Virgo (Aug 23-Sept 22)
At some point today you will write 2010 on a paper. Don’t fight the inevitable.
Libra (Sept 23-Oct 22)
The person you’ve been in love with since the third grade will finally talk to you. You will proceed to hyperventilate and faint.
Scorpio (Oct 23-Nov 21)
Chances are, he/she doesn’t even know you exist.
Sagittarius (Nov 22-Dec 21) You will be tackled in the hallway over a bag of pixie stix. Be ready to evade.
Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) Create a pile-up getting off the ski-lift. Like any cheesy romantic comedy, this will result in your meeting of your true love.
LoveBirds January28, 2011
At City High
by Jindalae Suh
Eleanor&Evan “Isn’t it cute? It looks like poop,” says a beaming Eleanor Cotton about the brown beaded bracelet tied to her left wrist. Donning the blue and white striped knit cap Eleanor made for him, Evan Risk threateningly lifts his hand and Eleanor flinches away. Both smile and giggle. The dynamic duo has been dating for around six months. “Since July 20,” says Eleanor, as Evan looks around guiltily. “I only remember
Elijah&Emma At one in the afternoon in the middle of winter with the temperature a balmy zero degrees, Elijah Jones ‘14 and Emma Wortman ’14 sat on a bench across the street from The Gazette downtown. And sat. And sat. Until the clock stuck eight, and Emma had to go home. “Ok we moved, we didn’t sit there that long,” admitted Jones. “We had to go warm up in the Java House for a bit,” Wortman said, smiling sheepishly. “There was one reason and only
Mr.&Mrs. Wilson The year was 1986 and a younger version of Bruce and Cathy Wilson were in grad school. “I always remember, although it sounds kind of not very cool but it was comforting at the time, was when I came out of a very lengthy surgery, like an all-day surgery, and pretty much opened my eyes for the first time and saw him. And one of my other friends trying to get around him, which ticked me off because it was like ‘oh no, I want to see this guy, not you’,” recollects Mrs. Wilson. “Yea I remember that,” Mr. Wilson chuckles. “And then you looked at the
cause it’s an even number and a multiple of ten.” Evan just stands there and mouths “She loves me.” Aware of each other in “little kid orchestra,” but only really getting to know each other on the trip to Europe symphony orchestra took this summer, Evan and Eleanor are a somewhat infamous couple around City High, renown for verbally abusing each other as well as giving one another many punches and slaps. “We’re not very couple-y, like other couples are… being coupley is gross.” When asked what some special memories
they’ve had are, Risk pipes up. “When we went to College Green Park it started pouring rain and we frolicked in the rain together, that was cute.” “Yeah,” agrees Cotton. “That was pretty precious.” Another special memory they shared was when Evan accidentally spit food on Eleanor’s hand. “That was a special memory,” said Cotton, nodding her head ernestly. “[Our relationship is] abusive and unhealthy,” Eleanor contemplates. “Unique.” Evan chimes in, “Love-hate.”
one reason we thought it was a good idea,” said Jones, “We wanted to kiss. It was as simple as it was. Eventually I said ‘oh for shits sake’ and I just did it. I think it’s funny to us because, Jesus it took a long time. “ Still only freshman, the couple has been dating for over a year. “We are two very deep people, and that makes all these things that are hardships even harder. But that makes every moment that we have, that we enjoy each other, that much better.” “Yea,” agreed Wortman, “Because we’ve been together longer than the average couple, we’ve come across some,
speed bumps.” Elijah looks and her pointedly. “…Mountains.” Wortman corrects herself. “But we know each other, and we overcome them.” Emma looks at him with perceptible affection. “He’s nice, he’s intelligent, he’s funny, very funny,” she smiles. Elijah sighs, “She’s astounding, she’s beautiful, she’s amazing. She surpasses me in everything. She speaks for herself; she doesn’t try to be anyone else. She’s a very special human being. I feel lucky to know her, to be with her, to catch her attention is something I feel proud of because, she’s extraordinary.”
clock and knew that it had not gone as you had planned. As we had planned.” There is a silence. “But that was a long time ago.” “That was a long time ago. 1986.” “And we didn’t have health insurance. And that was a rough year. It was hard. But we made it through.” Both teachers of chemistry at City, the couple has known each other for 31 and a half years, and of those years, 27 have been dedicated to married life and along with that, a child. Colin Wilson. “You’d have to be dead to have a child not affect your relationship,” said Mrs. Wilson. “You can have a pet, and say you’re using the pet to practice. We had a dog for seven years. He didn’t prepare us
for Colin.” “No,” agreed Mr. Wilson, shaking his head vigorously, “That doesn’t prepare you.” Although not terrifically romantic and full of dry humor, one can tell that there is a strong bond between the two. “I guess I could say I don’t know what it would be like without her.” “He’d be hungry and naked.” “Well there’s probably some truth to that, at least hungry. I think I could figure out the naked part.” “But it would be hard, because it’s a team, it’s a partnership. We come as a package.” “A quantum.”
by Ellen Carmen & Oli Peters With a present and balloon in hand, he brought his girl to Deluxe to present her with the cake. The bakers brought out the ridiculously lavish cake and gave it to her. She loved it. “We were all sitting in the kitchen and watching,” Leslie said. “Wishing someone had done it for us.” Deluxe was opened in 2003, by Jamie Powers. The pink walls are lined with different shaped mirrors hanging by ribbons. The mismatched tables and chairs give the feeling of a french cafe. “Our neighborhood location makes the bakery unique.” A Deluxe baker, Mary Simmons said. “It’s like an open
house.” Their Summit St. location is close to downtown and Longfellow Elementary School. The bakery is often home to people in the writers workshop looking for a quiet place to work. “On Saturday morning we have our regular crew that comes in.” Simmons said. “Bakeries are great places to come and socialize.” Deluxe offers a variety of treats. From cakes to truffles, poppy seed bread, decorated cookies, and on Saturdays, homemade donuts. “I grew to love donuts in the summer when I made them in the early mornings.” Jamison said. “I feel like the donuts
A Recipe for L VE
Red Velvet Cupcakes 2 ½ cups of flour, sifted 2 tablespoons of cocoa ½ teaspoon salt ½ cup butter, at room temperature 1 ½ cups white sugar 2 large eggs 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 cup buttermilk 2 tablespoons red food coloring
Cupcakes for your Cutie As February begins, love is in the air. Along with the infamous question “what will Valentine’s Day bring?” What should you get for that special someone? Historically, the answer has come in the form of something sweet. The bakers at Deluxe bakery know about how pastries have been used to say ‘I love you.’ The bakery bakes custom cakes of all different kinds, but baker Leslie Jamison remembers one that was extra special. “A guy came in to the store who looked like he was about sixteen,” Leslie said. “He had this vision for a cake that he planned to give to his girlfriend.”
Features
and I have been in the trenches together.” The bakery’s recipes come from ideas from cookbooks and Jamie Powers brought in many ideas from previous jobs. The bakers also experiment with new recipes of their own. The new baking phenomenon that has dominated TLC, creating shows such as Cake Boss and Food Network’s Ace of Cakes has directly effected Deluxe. “Everybody is watching cooking shows so they come in with amazing concepts,” Leslie said.“and Jamie is always game to do it.” Even during hard economic times, Deluxe is a popular destination for
people in Iowa City to come and get an inexpensive treat. It also feeds the interest of people who want to eat locally and fresh. Deluxe’s cookies change with the seasons, for Valentine’s Day they will have the classic pink, red, and white heart shaped cookies. More uniquely, the prince charming frog. Red velvet will also be in high demand. So as February 14th comes closer, a cookie or maybe even a red velvet cupcake could be the perfect way to say ‘I Love You’.
1 teaspoon white vinegar 1 teaspoon baking soda Preheat your oven to 350 degrees. Line cupcake tins with paper liners. Sift the flour, cocoa and salt (Note: keep your cakes in check and don’t let them get too salty). Set aside. In a different bowl, beat the butter with your electric mixer until fluffy, like snow but yummier. Add the sugar and mix for 2 minutes. Add the eggs, one at a time, unless you’re a ninja. Add the vanilla and mix. Stir the buttermilk and red food coloring. Mix ⅓ of your nottoo-salty-super-floury mixture into the the butter, sugar, and eggs mixture. When it is fully combined, add half the buttermilk. Repeat with ⅓ of the flour mixture and the rest of the buttermilk. Finish with the last third of the flour mixture, then check your math. Lastly, mix together the vinegar and baking soda. These two love each other, watch the fireworks until they’re done. Fold into your cupcake mixture. Finally, pour the batter into the cupcake tins and don’t forget to lick the bowl. Cook 25-30 minutes and frost.
The Cream Cheese Frosting 1 pound cream cheese, softened 2 sticks butter, softened 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 4 cups sifted confectioners' sugar Beat the cream cheese, then beat in the butter. Then sift in the powdered sugar one cup at a time. Mix in the vanilla. There will be lots of extra frosting which rocks because it is the best frosting ever! When the cupcakes completely cool, frost them and then share with your sweetie or eat them all by yourself!
Features
January 28, 2011
Perfect Score=Acceptance? The last few months have been filled with a frenzy of essay writing, application completing, and tense anticipation for many City High college bound seniors. Michael Barron, Director of Admissions at the University of Iowa, gave us insight into what it takes to be the “perfect” student. “We have a established admissions policy,” Barron said. “it includes many factors: test scores, success in the classes taken, GPA, extra curricular activities, and the quality of the courses the student has taken.” With people focusing more and more on having impressive extra-curriculars, there is a common misconception that standardized tests such as the ACT and SAT are becoming less relevant. “Honestly,” Barron said. “”it’s not becoming less important when looking at
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“He encourages students. I think that his teaching “Grades” style is a really good way -Cortez Barfield ‘12 to approach education.” -Maura Channon ‘11
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applications, although there are colleges who don’t require SAT and ACT scores.” That being said, extra curriculars are a crucial part of the ideal college applicant. The key is to stand out. Its better to be committed to a few distinctive endeavors than to be a “joiner”, one who participates in many activites, but holds no leadership position. Quality not quantity. “It’s more helpful to a student to have leadership all throughout high school in a single activity,” Barron said. “than to be a member of many different groups.” Whether it be academics, standardized testing, or extra-curriculars, dedication is vital. “A high school student,” concludes Barron, “should have commitment to everything they do.”
What do you think is the most important in college applications?
“I think that being able to use cellphones and “Any activities iPodsother is super cool!”that you are involved -Kara Hartley ‘13 in” -Mr. Rew
“What’s college?” -Alexandra Perez ‘13
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Looking Back at high school
from an Ivy Leaguer’s perspective.
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“Honors and AP classes.” -Parker Reineke ‘13
by guest writer Tareq Abuissa My four-week winter break has given me plenty of time to ponder my place in life, eat bowls of Cookie Crisp in the late afternoon, and wander around my parents’ house in boxers. I hardly feel qualified to offer analysis of the collegiate journey on which I have so recently embarked, but at its heart, it was... weird. Some of the kids wore skinny jeans and smoked cigarettes a lot. Some of their parents went to Columbia, some were millionaires, some had Wikipedia articles, and some entered the country illegally. Every building was taller than Hotel Vetro. There was a loud metal thing underground in which people read the Wall Street Journal in suits and bobbed their heads to hip-hop on big headphones. (Different people, usually.) My chemistry class had over a hundred students and nobody was taking attendance at the (by college standards, disagreeable) 9 AM lectures. It was a time of self-discovery, too: How do I spend my days without the neat structure of high school classes, music groups and theater? Which kinds of people do I gravitate towards? Should I join the breakdancing club? Looking back, a lot of my energy in high school was focused on tailoring myself towards the college application process. It seemed inevitable, to an extent; wasn’t college the reason that I was sliding around the icy corner of Glendale and 7th before sunrise for Early Bird PE? The reason that I hesitated on the last math question of the PSAT? The reason I tried to
count Combined Efforts Drama towards the Silver Cord? It can seem that way. But the transcripts and semifinalist statuses mean nothing in comparison to the experiences that I now remember so fondly: Hilariously exaggerated speedball dives in the new gym with Fidi. Looking up at Ms. Wiebener each morning with equal parts admiration and terror. Working the Dance of 2008 into my Wizard of Oz routine. My concept of the self for the last four years was thoroughly intertwined with my surroundings: My parents, being an older brother, eating Panchero’s, whatever was happening in Opstad Auditorium. The new and chaotic environment, however, provided a blank slate which quickly exposed what was really inside of me. I was good at meeting musicians. While juggling smaller assignments, I was bad at starting a 10-page paper much earlier than it was due. The things that carried over from high school were not the test scores but the qualities, good and bad, that had emerged from deep within over the years. Don’t try to be cool by becoming disenchanted with City High. You’re meant to be there and leave, to have trivial experiences and hugely valuable ones. Be cool by giving all you can in relationships, cultivating your consciousness and, in the words of the great Dan Sabers, doing your body some good. Who knows; I might even put on some pants and go for a run.
January 28, 2011
Super Feature
In these
Vast Fields of Ordinary Hollywood producer Bruce Cohen’s visit to City High by Annelise Jacobson You could call it chance. You might call it a coincidence. The romantics would call it destiny. However, when Bruce Cohen downloaded Nick Burd’s book to his iPad one ordinary day, something great was at work. It all started on a regular flight from New York to California when Cohen wanted something to read. A New York Times e-book recommendation interested him, and he offhandedly made the download. Page after page, the life of Dade and his struggle to be different gripped him, and he never once put it down. When his flight touched down, he made a call, starting the process to buy the rights to make Burd’s book into a film. “I started reading, and from the first page it was so beautiful,” Cohen said. “I fell in love on the plane. I couldn’t put it down. Something told me this was the movie I wanted to direct.” His hands moving in excited gestures, Cohen explains his certainty that the film will reach audiences. “If you’re going to speak to kids today, what better way than to have a gay lead character?” Cohen said. “You’ll relate to it if you’re gay, lesbian...or just an outsider. You’re different. Unique. Special. Everyone has those thoughts inside of them.” Cohen has been a Hollywood producer for 20 years, best known for American Beauty (1999) and Milk (2008). American Beauty, the story of a family fallen apart and the beauty of the simple things in life, won 5 Oscars, including Best Picture. Leading man Kevin Spacey took home the award for Best Actor. The movie also won the Best Motion Picture (Drama) in the Golden Globes. Milk is the true life story of Harvey Milk, the first openly gay politician in the country. Sean Penn received an Academy and Golden Globe Award for his portrayal of Harvey Milk. Cohen will also be producing the 2011 Academy Awards. “Producing is an amazing job because you are in charge from the very beginning,” Cohen said. “You really stay with the movie your whole life...there’s always details that people are still coming to you with for years.” Yet Cohen is giving up the producer position for The Vast Fields of Ordinary, and this film will be his first as a director. “ [Producing] has been good,” Cohen said, “but and I’ve always felt when the right project came along I would want to direct.” As it turns out, Burd’s book hit home that day on the airplane, and Cohen knew it was the one. The first whispers of the idea came to Nick Burd during his senior year of college. He is quick to say the
book is not an autobiograpy. “None of the things in the before the United States Supreme Court. They will argue book actually happened to me,” Burd explained. “Howthat underneath the 14th amendment, all people are enever, I would say that it is very personal. I am gay and titled to due process and equal rights. His legal represengrew up in Iowa and saw firsthand how difficult that tation is headed up by Ted Olson and David Boies, two could be at times. But no, I am not Dade and my teenage big names in the news after the 2000 Presidential Election, years were not quite as dramatic as his.” The first thing where they opposed each other in the Bush v. Gore case. he was sure of was the title: The Vast Fields of Ordinary. “The case that won gay marriage in Iowa was bril“It encapsulated a few words what I wanted liant. And we actually used a lot of what the Iowa Suthe book to be about,” Burd said. “Loneliness, oppreme Court decided. It fits beautifully with our case.” timism, the feeling of looking into the future.” Cohen, Burd, and John Krokidas came to City High this He was totally surprised January, meeting with high school students by the call from the producer. during a scouting visit for the film. They “I felt honored and humbled that are hoping to do the shooting in Cedar Rapthe message of the book had spread so ids. During his visit, Cohen talked to stu“Producing has far,” Burd said. “That was the big thing dents from G.L.O.W. (City High’s Gay Lesabout it that surprised me: the fact that it been good, but bian Or Whatever Club) about experiences reached and spoke to someone as accomwith harassment in highschool, how the adplished and intelligent as Bruce. If it got I’ve always felt ministration handles such bullying. Krokithat far, there’s no telling who else has das asked questions to get a feel for life in read my book and found meaning in it.” when the right high school today. “Above all,” Krokidas One of the sub-plots of the said, “We want to get high school right.” book is bullying, especially re- project came along Their trip to Iowa had one main purpose. lavent with the suicides in the news. “When John writes the script we want him “These gay suicides are horrify- I would want to to capture something real,” Cohen said. ing, and we have to do something, direct.” The Vast Fields of Ordinary is still in the but no, its not unusual,” Cohen said. pre-production stages, and the writing of “They’ve been happening for years the script is just getting underway. The and in the same numbers, and it’s just will most likely be released in 1-2 this year that they are finally getting -Bruce Cohen movie years as a PG-13 film, because they want national attention.” He says this is it to be accessible to kids going through important because this issue is not gothe same struggles as the main character. ing to go away, and things needs to Finding the balance for a rating is change. His biggest question is whether it will change difficult for every movie. “The number one goal for in time to save the kids going through the bullying now. a movie is you’ve got to entertain people.” said CoCohen was married in the state of California during hen. “You can preach as much as you want, your mesthe 5 months that same-sex marriage was legal in 2008. sage can be as important as possible, but if the movie is Though the decision was struck down by a proposinot entertaining, if it’s not fun, if it’s not sexy, if people tion from the voters in 2010, a federal judge ruled that don’t want to see it, then you won’t reach anyone.” the state had to uphold the rights of the 18,000 couples And just what is their message? Look no further than married during that time. Even though Cohen was able the first page of the book, where E.E. Cummings is quoted: to keep his marriage, he knows that isn’t enough. “If “To be nobody but yourself, in a world which is the minority waited for the majority to give them their doing its best day and night to make you like everyrights, those minorities would never get their rights.” body else, means to fight the hardest battle which Cohen and several other people have come together any human being can fight, and never stop fighting.” and hired a lawyer who will argue the case of California
TOP LEFT: Portrait of author Nick Burd. TOP MIDDLE: Bruce Cohen celebrates after accepting the American Beauty’s Academy Award for Best Picture in 1999. TOP RIGHT: The cover of Nick Burd’s book. BOTTOM: Screenwriter John Krokidas takes notes as the group talks with students.
Photos by Annelise Jacobson
January28, 2011
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Straddling Lines of Traditiony i v k j q t l u h ϕ i f do s g er b
By Renata Stewart and Sonora Taffa
Three City High students, from completely different parts of the globe, all have one thing in common: they know what it’s like to be different.
Sandy Gaber’12, Tony Mai’11, and Juliette Enloe’13 came together to discuss their dual cultures. Sandy, from Egypt, shares experiences with Tony, hailing from Vietnam, who has had similar ordeals of stereotyping to those of Juliette, from France. Though they all come from separate, utterly unique cultures, their experience has been parallel in multiple ways.
Juliette Enloe ‘13
photo by RENATASTEWART
“We’re always different, it’s like all the Arabs stick together because there aren’t a lot of us in America. We all feel like everyone is looking at us, and we act like everything is okay,” Gaber said, explaining what it feels like to be so noticeably different, so far from home.
Gaber’s parents immigrated from Egypt. An aunt and three cousins are her only other relatives in the U.S.; the rest of her extensive family remains in Egypt. “(My parents) decided to come because there were better choices in the U.S. and better living,” Gaber said. “I’m really thankful that I’m here but other times I wish that I were back where my whole family grew up. My entire family tree is in Egypt.” Mai’s parents left their home country of Vietnam for similar reasons, searching for a better life and education.
photo by RENATASTEWART
After he visited his extended Vietnamese family in 2007, Mai had some realizations about his own family. “I’m a little pressured by my parents, but my mom was raised here and she went to City so that tendency kind of left her,” Mai said. “She knows how it feels so she takes it a little easier on me. They tone it down here in America because they’re sure I can get everything I need to be successful.” Enloe’s mother and father met in France where they were both studying archeology and half of her family still lives their. When asked what her family misses most about their home country she responded with one word: “bread”.
“I’ve always been proud of the fact that I’m French. We’re the kind of people who drink our hot chocolate out of bowls. Every time people come over to our house and see us doing that they just get really weirded out. They’re like ‘What are you doing?’” said Enloe. ”Yeah, you drink coffee and stuff out of bowls in France. I could do it either way, but I just think it’s fun.”
Tony Mai ‘11
photo by ANNELISEJACOBSON
The head scarf is just one example of Islamic culture barriers. Egyptian women have drastically different duties and privileges than women in American society. Girls aren’t supposed to be out in public very often, and when they are a male relative must accompany them.
“Even hanging out at night is a bad thing... My mom still follows the Egyptian rules. She loosens up though. One time I went to prom and I was out really late, till like four o’clock in the morning,” Gaber said. “Sometimes I wish I could do what other American kids get to do and stay out with my friends whenever I want, but most times I’m glad that I’m following these rules.” Girls are treated similarly in Vietnamese culture.
“Sometimes I just feel like people are really ignorant and other times I think that maybe if they had a chance to learn more about the culture they’d know better.” -Sandy Gaber ‘12
“Children have to work for their families a lot in Vietnam, so they have to quit school. School is also really strict in Vietnam because it’s so underdeveloped, so you want your kid to do really well,” Mai said. “It’s almost like a competition to be at school everyday. Kids get their hands slapped by teachers just because they make a tiny mistake.”
Sandy Gaber ‘12
Gaber said. “But it wasn’t like that. It was more of a choice. Once I put it on some people wouldn’t adapt to the change so we drifted apart and other people were like ‘That’s so cool!’ and wanted to know more about it.”
“The girls think it’s really unfair and I think it is too. Even if there are five girls in a room and one guy walks in it’s a chaotic mess with the parents,” Mai said. “I think it’s kind of ridiculous and overshot because you’re not going to do anything bad. If they think you would do something wrong they should just tell you straight forward.” The Islamic marriage and dating process never ceases to astound Gaber’s classmates. The engagement takes the place of dating, and parents have a large say in who their children marry.
“The parents pick first and then they give [the girl] the narrowed down choice. If a guy is really into a girl he can go ask her father for her hand. The dad will see if the guy is reasonable in his religion and stuff,” Gaber said. “My friends say it’s like Parental Control. Wow, nice connection to MTV there!” All three teens have been subjected to stereotypes on a regular basis. However, Americans aren’t the only people who have misconceptions about other cultures.
“French people make stereotypes about me because I’m half American. They ask me if where I live is covered in cactuses. They assume I live in Texas or something. Either Texas, California, New York, Hawaii, Alaska, or Florida. All the cool places,” Enloe said. “Then I feel lame. Um, no we have corn and pigs and not a lot of anything else. Then they ask ‘Wait, so you’ve never met Britney Spears?” They’ve all learned to laugh about it. Cultural isolation is largely reinforced by stereotypes and general lack of knowledge. “Sometimes I just feel like they’re really ignorant and other times I think maybe if they had a chance to learn more about the culture they’d know better,” said Gaber. “I’ve had people ask if I helped build the pyramids. I’m not even going to answer that. Think whatever you want, but use logic.”
Gaber is no stranger to this sort of reaction. She began to wear a headscarf her freshman year because of changes in her religious views. This decision has garnered attention, both positive and negative, from fellow students.
Despite having to balance their two worlds, Enloe, Gaber, and Mai agree that the opportunities gained from their multi-cultural families are well worth it.
“When I was younger nobody really knew I was from Egypt or anything ‘cause I used to let my hair down. Some people thought I was forced to wear [the head scarf] at one point and my parents would get mad if I took it off,”
“I feel like I’ve gotten a lot more opportunities to do things than kids who are only from America,” Enloe said. “I get to experience a whole entire different culture. You get the best of both worlds.”
Super Feature
January 28, 2011
January 28, 2011
From Sun Up to SUNDOWN G
Super Feature
oing on eleven years at Sun Down Mountain, Assistant Principal, Mrs. Browning shares her experiences as a volunteer ski patrol in Dubuque Iowa. “I enjoy skiing and helping people,” Browning said. “One of the major benefits for me is that my whole family skis for free.” To become a volunteer ski patrol at Sun Down, you must be at least 18 years of age, and capable of passing several ski and medical courses. “I had to take four months of first-aid and EMT classes twice a week,” Browning said. “I also had to ski two nights per month in order to perfect my skills.” The Sundown Ski patrol Currently has 66 members, with people of different ages and professions.
“Every time I went, I worked with til 9 p.m., Saturdays 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. and different people,” Browning said. “Vol- Sundays 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.. A lift ticket costs unteer ski patrols always vary greatly in $40 for an adult on the weekends and holitheir professions and interdays, $33 for a weekday and ests. Throughout the years I $28 after 4 p.m.. have met several firefighters, “I ski mostly nights belawyers, teachers, and nurses. cause it’s cheaper than skiThey all love to ski.” ing during the day,” said Last winter, Mrs. Browning Felix Mulligan, who learned and Felix Mulligan 11’ made an to ski a few years ago on the attempt to get a Sundown skiSoutheast Junior High trip. ing club off the ground “I also like it because it’s “We went to Sundown the less crowded and you can first Saturday of every month, see easier without the sun in as well as watching ski videos your eyes. and having regular meetings,” All though the Southeast Browning said. “Only a handtrip no longer exists, it still ful of people showed up and -Ann Browning has impacted the many of we needed more people to get the students who attended involved. It’s possible that we in previous years. could have one in the future.” “When I first started skiing on the During the regular season, the resort South East trip, I was scared, but by the is open Monday-Friday from 10 a.m. un- end I learned it could be a lot of fun,” Mul-
Browning poses with Sundown Ski patrol pose for a photo in front of the lodge in Dubuque, Iowa.
“Every time I went, I worked with different people.”
Ski patrol caught in the act during one of Browning’s work weekends in the winter.
New Technologies Hit the Market by Gabriel Brasile Back hunched over, eyes glazed over, fingers whipping left and right, this student is immersed in his iPod Touch. “It keeps me occupied and entertained,” Christian Kennedy ‘14 said. “Two words: Angry. Birds.” In today’s bustling world of many electronics and revolutionary gadgets, companies are marketing new technologies to the public. Some of these are revolutionary new inventions, some have yet to be released to the public at all, and some fall flat without anyone noticing. First released on April 3, 2010, the iPad was Apple’s new selling point. A nice, slim mini-computer complete with web surfing, Microsoft Word, and many new and exclusive apps. Now Apple is planning for a second edition rumored to be thinner, twice as fast, and comes complete with a front camera and subtle design changes like a thin frame and flat back. The iPad2 is rumored to release in the early months of 2011. Just like the iPad2, the iPod Touch 4 is a big selling point for Apple. Just like the old iPodTouch, this edition still features Safari, iTunes, and the App store. “My favorite part is the access to
ligan said. “This was when I realized that I really liked to ski.” An intro to skiing and snowboarding class is offered at Sundown for $10. The Mountain has a 120 instructor team which is the largest in the region. “I took the group lesson at first, but the more I skied, the more I learned,” Mulligan said. “I think it’s really bad that South East doesn’t do their annual ski trip anymore, because it’s a great opportunity for junior high kids Since Sundown is conveniently located by the Little Maquoketa River, they’re able to provide their own snow for the slopes. With more than 150 guns and poles, the snow is evenly distributed throughout the resort. “I really enjoy sundown because you’re outside having a lot of fun and being with friends at the same time,” Mulligan said. “There’s always something entertaining happening.”
the Internet,” Kennedy said. “And the music, of course.” Apple put a lot of effort in this iPod. Additions include two cameras (one on front, one on back) for Facetime capabilities and HD video recording, iMovie, the new Game Center app, and a super high resolution for sharper imaging. With the new generation of gaming consoles, there also are new ways of playing video games. Microsoft and Sony’s new consoles have followed in the Nintendo Wii’s footsteps and gone towards motion controlled gaming. The Xbox’s Kinect works using a Kinect sensor camera with full 3D body recognition and voice recognition to make for some pretty futuristic gaming, but can be unresponsive at times. On the other hand, the PlayStation Move works with two ergonomic hand-held controllers with a
PlayStationEye camera to sense the controllers and is complete with a three axis accelerometer. The Move works pretty consistently and resembles the Wii with its two controllers and motion camera. But Microsoft and Sony aren’t the only ones coming out with new gaming systems. Continuing off of their popular DS system, Nintendo is in the process of creating a new 3DS system with everything from the original DS plus a 3D screen and other additions. These include a media player, a Mii creator, a slide pad replacing the traditional D-pad, and Wi-Fi. What Nintendo is marketing is, of course, the 3D aspect of the system, which is viewable without the need of 3D glasses. The Nintendo 3DS is predicted to release in March 2011. The Mintpass Tablet is the new contender on the market, from the Korean firm Mintpass. This gadget can play movies and music, surf the web, and download apps. This iPad-esque mini-computer is unique for many reasons including its ability to fold in half just like a laptop and its special Space Touch technology. This allows the user to open up and view multiple screens at the same time so he or she could watch a movie, read an article, and surf the web all at the same time. The Mintpass Tablet is scheduled to release in the first half of 2011.
The Sundown Ski Patrol poses up above the 500 vertical foot drop at the ski and snowboard mountain.
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SuperFeature
Deadly
Explosion
by Emma Gier As I walk into the cafeteria the Hip Hop Club’s leader Shawn Wright ‘11 is counting off the beats. Pretty soon the sound of hip-hop music takes the place of the counts. The pulse, rhythm, and rhyme are perfect for hip-hop dance. A group of students is working intently on perfecting every dance move, while having an endless amount of fun. Even though a lot of work is being accomplished, they are laughing constantly. Hip Hop Club a.k.a. Deadly Explosion practices on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday each week. While Shawn choreographs all the dances, all fifteen people play a huge role in the group. The club is certainly important to freshman Mariah
Mariner. “I love the Hip Hop Club, the people in it. They are so caring and they are like my family.” It’s not just the people that are important to her though. Dance is a very important thing in her life as well. “I have been dancing since I was in the third grade. I dance because I love it, and it’s my hobby. I like the way it makes me look.” Hip Hop Club performs at UAY, and for school assemblies. Performing is one of the best parts of dancing for Jenni Smallwood ’12. “At first there is anticipation. Next I feel a rush from all the cheers, then comes concentration and lastly fun! I feel so alive when I’m out there dancing for people.”
January 28, 2011
January 28, 2011
Opinion
Your World (a staff editorial) What you should care about, and why.
Seniorits: The dreaded curse (or perceived blessing) of every student preparing to leave these fair halls forever come May. We know that there is no force on earth that can stop this feeling. But honestly, you’ve got to reign it in a little bit. From the all-out “uncaring, failing-classes, missing-multiple-days” to just “occasionally missing an assignment on purpose” everyone gets senioritis to some degree. And we’re not tyring to eliminate it, or stop it. You’ve gone to school for almost 13 years now. You can take
CHS
Downtown Bars (your city) As you’ve no doubt heard, both from us, and from the local newspapers, there’s this new thing: the “21-only” ordinance. Yeah, of course you’ve heard of it. But for all the noisemaking happened this fall, the subject has gone pretty dark in recent months. So here’s an update. As of winter break, at least 3 bars have closed their doors, citing the 21 Ordinance as the cause. More bars either have had, or currently have their liquor licence suspended or pending suspension. And without one, what bar can survive long? We feel that although the ordinance seems to be having the desired effect - underage citations
under down, in addition to indorm alcohol violations - the result is coming at too high a cost. Many of the proponents of the Ordinance stated that the goal was never to close bars or hurt downtown commerce. Yet that is a large part of what has happened. The action was too drastic. With both sides refusing to compromise, the result was too harsh. A middle ground should have been and still should be found. One that would effectively keep underage drinkers out, but also one that wouldn’t utterly shaft businesses downtown. What this middle ground is, we don’t know. But surely anything would be better than what we have now.
(your state) In case you live under a rock, here’s an update on the Iowan gun control law. We, as a state, recently passed a law that says that it is legal for anyone to carry an unconcealed handgun in public. To this, we say “WTF Iowa?” This is a bad, terrible, horrendously stupid law. No one needs to carry a gun around all the time. Proponents of laws like this justify their actions with ignorant, blanket statements like “It makes me feel safer” and “It’s my constitutional right.” Are you f****** kidding me? What does a handgun make you safer from? Terrorists in Iowa? (Yeah, right.) A bank robber that
you’re going to run across while out getting a hair cut? Getting hit by a drunk driver at 11 at night? Handguns are quite frankly, useless in the hands of most citizens. In compensating for their own apparent lack of moral fiber and/or cojones, they endanger others with their obviously itchy trigger fingers and their sheer presence. Many Iowa City businesses like the Public Library and Rec Center are already moving forward to gain permission to ban state-legalized weapons on their premises. More power to them, we say. Way to have the guts to fix what the state never should have done in the first place.
Tucson, Arizona (your country) While we’re on the subject of gun control, here’s a perfect example of a lack thereof. On January 8th, 2011, Jared Lee Loughner, a 22 year Arizona native, shot U.S. Representative Gabrielle Giffords in the head at an informal political rally in Tucson with 9mm Glock handgun. Moments later, he turned his gun on the small crowd assembled, injuring 13 and killing six, including nine year-old Christina Taylor-Green. Beyond the obvious travesty and tradgedy, this is just disheartening. Since when do we, as Americans and as the supposed leaders of “the democratic free world” turn to mass assassination to solve our governmental differences? It’s just... pathetic. All that was proved this January is that we, as a people, have problems with how we conduct
on s a e r & y c n e dec
max friedman news editor
ourselves on a personal and national level. No politician failed to espouse their “deep, deep condolences” soon after the 8th. They were quickly followed by those who sought to use the shootings to push or attack their own political doctrine. Many blamed Sarah Palin and the Tea Party for fostering the climate that could result in such drastic actions. And only a quick emergency action by Arizona Governor Jan Brewer prevented the Westboro Baptist Church from rearing their ugly heads at the memorial services. Everyone just needs to back off. Beyond the obvious problem that we allow things like this to happen in our country, the usage of such an event to further one’s own views, much less political platform is disgusting. Since when is tragedy an occasion to gain popularity?
opinions The Opinion section is designed as a forum for the staff members of the Little Hawk and the CHS community. Signed commentaries and cartoons are the views of the writer/artist and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Editorial Board. Opinions of the board are presented in unsigned editorial messages. Letters to the Editor should be dropped off in Room 2109 or sent to opinion.thelittlehawk@gmail.com. All letters must be no more than 250 words in length and must be signed. The Editorial Board reserves the right to edit for length, content and style.
harrison burke opinion editor
Editorial Board
Gun Control
(your school)
a bit of a break. But we all have to reign it in a bit. You’ve applied to colleges, asked for fancy government money, written more essays than you have in your entire high school career and are now waiting to figure out the next four years of your life. This is not the time to drop the ball. Don’t screw everything you just worked for up! If you have to, take a break every once in a while. Take a personal day, watch movies, sleep all day. Unwind. Get back in the right gear, the correct mindset, and finish the year strong. But don’t just give up. Not now.
carl sessions executive editor
renata stewart features editor
mikey hunter sports editor reporters:
kieran green, nora holman, annelise jacobson, ellen kealey, emma gier, jin suh, sonora taffa, alexandra perez, cassie wassink, ellen carman, emma baxter, ethan zierke, gabriel brasile, oli peters, will benson, destinee gwee
mission statement
The Little Hawk, thev student newspaper of City High School, aims to inform, educate and entertain readers; to provide an educational opportunity for the students who produce it; and to provide a medium for commercial advertising. Equity Statements English Version: It is the policy of the Iowa City Community School District not to discriminate on the basis of race, creed, color, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, disability, or socioeconomic status in its educational programs, activities, or employment practices. If you believe you have (or your child has) been discriminated against or treated unjustly at school, please contact the Equity Director, Ross Wilburn, at 509 S. Dubuque Street, 319688-1000. Spanish Version: Declaración de Equidad: Es la política de Iowa City Community School District no descriminar en base a raza, credo, color, género, origen, religión, edad, estado civil, orientación sexual, estado de veterano, incapacidad, =estado socio-económico en sus programas educacionales, actividades, o políticas de empleo. Si usted piensa que usted o su hijo (a) han sido descriminados o que han sido tratados injustamente en la escuela, por favor comuníquese con el Director de Equidad, Ross Wilburn, 509 S. Dubuque Street, teléfono: 319-688-1000.
Iowa City High School 1900 Morningside Drive Iowa City, Iowa 52245 Phone: (319)-688-1040 Fax: (319)-339-5704
Opinion
thumbs
DDoS attacks Patriotism Winter beards Kitten mittens The Social Network Dugongs Not following directions Nerf gun fights Carrot chips
January 28, 2011
iPod iNjustice It was quite possibly the first time I have ever gone to the library this year while I wasn’t in a class or printing something on purple paper. But I’d grown tired of unsuccessfully trying to do my homework in all the other too-noisy environments City is full of. So there I was, sitting at a table covered entirely my Chemistry homework, plugged into my iPod and listening to some creatively-titled playlist when I finally realized that there is a librarian standing in front of me trying to get my attention. (Noise cancelling earbuds.) So I pull out my ‘buds only to
have her tell me that “iPods aren’t allowed in the library.” Are you kidding me? Now, I’m not mad at the librarians by any means. But this is a REALLY dumb rule. Here’s why: for one, my iPod usage wasn’t bothering anyone else. I wasn’t using the speaker, the ‘buds don’t let any sound out the back, and if anyone could hear, they’d be uncomfortably close to me anyways. For two, it instantly became harder to study once I stopped listening. Without the noise cancelling I was able to hear the other four tables of kids around me talking about their math projects, the teachers they dis-
“iPods aren’t allowed in the library.’
harrison burke like, their homework, and snow days, to name but a few of their ever-sointeresting topics of conversation. Third: is there any real reason behind disallowing iPods? Because to me, it seems totally arbitrary. I wasn’t even facing the front of the library, and I was behind a big column. Were they just walking around looking for supposedly misbehaving children? Additionally, students are allowed to use iPods in the commons, lunch room, and hallways. But not the library? Why the discrepancy? Lastly, I was being much, much less disruptive than the other students around me, who were, in the
time that I observed, taking surveys, gossiping loudly, playing on a iPad, having “girl talk” and generally being loud and irritating. So I - the one quietly studying and tyring to ignore my classmates - was the one punished. Thanks. So in the end, I was chastised and punished by an outdated rule that refuses to take into account the changing policies of the school, and seemingly purposefully ignores other students misbehavior and disruptiveness. My studying, my schoolwork, and my simple enjoyment suffered, all because of this one foolish rule.
“I was essentially punished for trying to study, and for being quiet.”
Dear Editor:
Black Swan Stud Muffins Rec league Sucking at snowboarding
Herpes Chuck Norris Flannel Jackets Sex ed Morons Wind chill New gun laws Winter blues Chodes The word “douche” Sarah Palin The Absurd
This is a letter written in rebuttal to last issues essays concerning the fashion phenomena known as sweater vests. It is both written and endorsed by the CHS Large Group Speech Group Improvisation team. We, the CHS Improv Team feel targeted by last issue’s opinion article concerning sweater-vests. The column claimed they were pretentious and ugly, and I hope that this clarifies some information about this fashion staple of City High. Firstly, “Sweater-vest Thursday” has been around for quite a long time, dating back to the legendary improv teams of old. It surfaces during LGS season, and then dies down as the weather warms. It is the manifestation of the rich tradition that runs in the Improv team’s blood. If the Improv team is being placed under scrutiny for traditional fashion statements, then the accusers should also condemn the swim team for bleaching their hair, the cross country team for their velvet shirt and orange plaid vest, and the cheerleaders for wearing their outfits to school. These are traditions that are kept for the sake of team spirit, and not for making a fashion statement. Students wear their team paraphenalia out of pride. It is neither ill-conceived nor pretentious. It is vital to understand that wearing sweater-vests on Thursdays are not desperate attempts to look better than everyone else. Rather, they provide the opportunity to look ridiculous. Zach Greimann ’11 often wears sweater-vests with hawaiian shirts or vivid plaid, combinations that is widely recognized as comical. The hot-spot for sweater-vest shopping is Goodwill, where the hideous sweat-
er-vests line the store in masses. One could write an article criticizing the cross country teams traditions of passing a grimy velvet zippered-shirt around as ugly, or scrutinize the violently blond swimmers for shaving their heads. These statements are clearly meant to be ugly, to attract publicity or bond a team. The Improv Team does not have warm-ups or jerseys to wear on the school day before competitions to attract publicity. There is nothing wrong with a little attention. If we are actually just trying to look good, what is wrong with that? Dressing more formally has been proven to increase studiousness. The article itself also had quite a few malapropisms. Firstly, when I looked up the term “alt-bro” on Google images, I did not see a single sweater-vest. Rather, I saw an awful lot of flannel and plaid. The alleged term “hipster” does not imply sweater-vests. Wikihow. com has a wonderful article on “How to be a hipster,” and sweater-vests are not mentioned at all. And a suburban country club is an oxymoron. Our favorite steps in “How to be a hipster” include the following. 3.) Only listening to independent music 5.) Insulting a lot of bands 6.) and 7.) Coining the terms, “I liked them before they were cool,” and, “I liked their first EP, but pretty much after that I never got into them.” 8.) Fashion, where they emphasize skinny jeans. 12.) Denial 13.) Location, “any moderately large college town that is the only liberal part of the state.” Sound familiar?
Dirty Hipsters A lack of snow days Girl-drama
Have an opinion? Want to share it? Send a Letter to the Editor at opinion.thelittlehawk@gmail.com with your name and grade. Letters must be under 300 words in length. The Little Hawk reserves the right to edit for content and length.
Irony flowed from that column like honey from the pot. The column insinuated that sweater-vests were worn by pretentious people, and thus are pretentious in nature. By criticizing another’s fashion, you place your own fashion above theirs, and thus are the pretentious one. Who holds the authority to judge all fashion? No one (possibly Tyra Banks, but that is irrelevant). The style spectrum is huge. If style were a type of light, and one were to refract it through a prism, could one call one color better than the other? No. “Judging a book by its cover” is
both unfair and idiotic. It is what has bred social rifts in American society, a problem which public forums such as The Little Hawk should strive to expose and bring attention to the world. Even if a select few believes the Improv Team to be pretentious, they must be sadly uninformed. Anyone who actually knows a member of the Improv team knows that they are a group of the most respectful and courteous students and are devilishly handsome.
~ Phil Buatti
Opinion
January 28, 2011
Funding Fallacies The City-West divide; more than anything it has come to define academic politics in the last few years. The perceived dichotomy between the “haves” and “have-nots” of the Iowa City Community school district has created a poisonous atmosphere and a decidedly negative environment for all students living in said area to learn, grow, and come of age in. Indeed, the perception of City as the inferior of the two schools in the Iowa city area is a gross injustice that is in desperate need of correction, and to be fair to Mr. Bacon and the rest of the City High staff, steps have indeed been taken to address the divide. And yet, when I look around me, I see a massive gap in many of the areas of achievement for City Students, not just academically, but in many extracurricular areas as well. Pondering the matter deeper, I came to the conclusion that the reason City lags behind is not because of any lack of talent on the part of the students, but because of a lack of material support from the school’s administration
Now many of the student popu- West in numerous non-sport extralace will probably find the assertion curricular activities. that City lags behind west to be luNow, it would be easier to live dicrous. After all, haven’t we just with this imbalance between the trounced them in football for the two halves of the school district if umpteenth time? And our Girls Bas- it weren’t for the galling tendency ketball teams are doing exception- for City to unwittingly reinforce its ally well, are they not? The answer is image as the “dumber” of the two yes. But it is this schools. kind of mindThis is where “I’m all for having a sucset, that sportfunding allocaing events take cessful football team, tions come in. precedence Though it is true but...is it truly necessary over other acthat sporting tivities, that is to spend thousands of dol- programs cater part of the mo- lars on fireworks for home to a large body rass that bogs of students, the down City’s games?” extravagance attempts to imthat is showprove itself. ered upon the more “visible” of the Sure, sporting events are impor- schools activities is often appalling. tant, but what about the fact that City I’m all for having a successful footstudents score on average a whole ball team, but is it truly necessary to point worse on their ACT exams, spend thousands of dollars on firenot to mention the numerous aca- works for said football team’s homedemic electives that are exclusive to coming game? Of course not. West High. Is it really fair to only ofBut here we are, spending gratufer such opportunities to only half of itous portions of our budget not on a City’s populace? In addition to this, providing the necessary equipment City is consistantly outperformed by and support for our sports teams, but
The Snowday Blues High school life is simple. We drag ourselves out of bed, go to school, play our sports, and do our homework. Routines are good. And life is okay. But when it’s cold, and icy, and January, I need a break. I need a SNOWDAY. Now, I know many of you antisnowday-ists are probably thinking, “Stop whining, snowdays are just random days in January that add on to the end of the year.” This is a legitimate point, I will admit. But the true beauty of snowdays is not the freezing weather or heaps of frozen ice and slush. It’s the surprise, and the break from our bor-
kieran green
ing schedules. Snowdays are days of unexpected freedom from textbooks and shrill bells and cafeteria food. I like to think of them as mental health days. Very practical, right? Writing this column is proving very therapeutic, really. Because lately I’ve been feeling utterly, inexplicably cheated and betrayed. I just moved here from St. Louis, Missouri. Now, a nice way to describe St. Louis weather would be “wet”. Really, it’s just sucky. The summers are so humid it feels like you get a bucket of sticky water dumped on you the second you walk outside. And winter? The weatherman promises you fluffy snow and what do you
sonora taffa
get? Rain. Cold, freezing rain. We average about two snowdays a year. So obviously when I moved to Iowa, the state of corn and cold, I expected some snowdays. Have I mentioned how much I love snowdays? And everyone promised me I wouldn’t be dissapointed. City got eight snowdays last year! But I am dissapointed. My old school district is winning 4-0 to City. In snowdays, I mean. My friends tell me that it didn’t even snow for the first two, just rained and the roads were a teeny bit icy. Many people would say those two snowdays were uncalled for. The chances of anyone sliding or crash-
Valentine’s Victims I used to hate Valentine’s Day. Remember making those Valentine’s Day boxes back in elementary school? You decorate an ordinary cardboard box with brightly colored construction paper, or a brown paper bag with big crayon hearts. At the end of the day, the teacher lets everybody see how many valentines they got, but when you open yours excitedly you look down and see only two or three instead of the seemingly hundreds that the other kids got. Then you get to junior high, where everybody is divided up into strict cliques. Each clique functions as a single entity and members are
never allowed to mingle with another group. But there are always some who never quite fit in; they say the wrong thing all the time, wear the wrong clothes, or cut their hair really short and dye it green. These people go through that portentous day laughing off the loneliness, but secretly wishing their true love would gallop up in shining armor and take them in their arms and kiss them hotly. Ok, yes, some of these situations may have been based on my own past experiences, and sad thoughts pass over me whenever I think about them—like how
on tinsel and wrappers to make our sports teams look nice and feel good about themselves, while programs that are not looked favorably upon by some members of this school’s administration are left to wither, locked in a perpetual state of inferiority compared to the better funded and supported programs on the west side. So how can we as students act to improve our school’s standing within the town? A good first step may to be just be an advocate for City when in the public sphere. And don’t just be an advocate for some portions of your school, be an advocate for all of it. That might mean going to a large group speech performance or joining interact. Whatever you do, you can never get too involved. And at the administrative level, giving extracurriculars the material support to back up the rhetoric would do wonders to ensure that City High once again truly becomes “The School that Leads.”
ing because of a little ice are small. But how careful is too careful? We all remember how just a few months ago the wrestling team’s bus flipped on a patch of ice. Recently road conditions have been much worse than they were that day. I hope that the school district keeps everyone in mind when they make us come to school on an icy day. I mean we’re highschoolers, our cars aren’t exactly new. I’m still hoping that I’ll wake up, find the world covered in heaps of snow, and cackle as I go back to bed instead of trudging into Early Bird. Or maybe snow just doesn’t like me as much as I like snow.
jin suh
I’ve never gotten grinded on at a dance... Some may even dare to call me a “loser,” but to that I say, do not losers have feelings too? I suppose it gets better in high school, but still there are those who dread Valentine’s Day; for some the loneliest day out of all 365. I can’t not admit that this year I have someone in my life who will be there for me this Valentine’s, but I still remember how it felt when I didn’t.
So as February 14th rolls around this year, a thought occurs to me. If some generous person had deigned to stop me in the hall of South East Jr. High and hand me a Spongebob Squarepants or Scooby-Doo paper valentine from Wal-Mart, maybe even a cool oriental themed one, I might not have grown to be so cynical about Valentine’s Day. So how about we all try to make a
“Set up a speed dating day for all the losers at your school.”
“And then they go to the joint committee. No, the senators aren’t smoking weed.” -Mrs. Redlinger, talking about the legislative process “I never liked soccer. Soccer is a communist sport.” -Mr.Hartwig reveals his inner conflict with Kickers soccer. “In the next chapter, we’ll be using the sexy integral sign.” -Mrs. Smirl, getting the class excited about the next unit. “Mo’ Money, Mo’ Money, Mo’ Money!” -Mr. Yates quotes his favorite ‘90’s movie. “People in the south of France are more overt with their infections.” -Mrs. Grundstad explains why the French kiss so often. “Oh, I got a text message. Never fear though, Gotham is safe.” - Mr. Hartwig gives a brief insight to his secret identity. “Did they have a social life? No, of course not. They don’t mind though. They have the rest of their lives for that. Why do you think your parents have Facebook?” -Mr. Koepnick, attempts to describe AP Chemistry students. “I’m bad. You know isn’t that the thing you guy’s say?” “You mean my bad?” “Oh, yeah. I guess I’m just too old.” -Mr. Carhoff tries to get in touch with his class. “I’m a teddy bear.” -Mr. Hartwig attempts to make students feel safer in the classroom. “Tonight, you’ll get to spend an even with me. People have paid for that before.” -Dr. McReynolds reveals entirely too much about his past. lonely kid feel better this year? Set up a speed dating day for all the losers in your school. Actually... don’t do that. But you get the idea. Say something nice to that shy boy or girl in your class. Sit with someone who eats by themselves at lunch. Hand out oriental-themed paper valentines in the halls. Let people know that the world doesn’t suck as much as they think it does. Make one person a little less cynical this Valentine’s Day.
Sports
Girls Basketball
January 28, 2011
No. 8 Prepare For State by Michael Hunter The eighth ranked girls basketball season has seen plenty of success this season with a few bumps along the way. Latest 5223 victory over Cedar Falls shows the team is starting to dominate. Twenty-three of the 52 points came from foward Virginia Johnson. Johnson has scored 374 points for the Little Hawks this season and Underclass Mickey Hansche has also been a leader for the Little Hawks. Hansche has put up 202 points this year which passed last years total of 186 points. “Our success is due to the hard work we put in practice.” said Hansche. “We are a more experienced team this year.” The Little Hawks get another shot to return the defeat they recieved from 4th ranked Iowa City West earlier the season on January 12th at City High.
photos by ANNELISEJACOBSON STARTING LINE-UP: Virginia Jonhson (above) Mickey Hansche ‘13 (Top left) Sierra Chambers 12’ (Top Right), Erin Danielson ‘13 (Bottom left) and Harper Beasley ‘12 (Bottom Right) have been key players for the City High girls varsity team this season.
Boys Basketball
Bowling
Looking for Rhythm Principal John Bacon challenges boys basketball by promising a shaved head when the victory occurs
by Will Benson As the Little Hawk boys basketball team progresses through the regular season, the high level of competition has gotten the best of them. But following a close defeat against West High, some positives have emerged. “We have found a weapon in Lonnie Chester, who has opened up a mean can of yams,” Jeff Campbell ‘12 said. City gets a chance to redeem themselves on their home floor against their rivals on February 11th. They will have to continue to play scrappier and tougher than the other team, getting turnovers and fast break points, while shoring up their half court offense and perimeter defense. With so many Division I players in the conference this year, such as Jarrod Uthoff of Jefferson and Josh Oglesby of Washington, City has yet to pick up its first win. The inconsistency that’s plagued the Little Hawks has been a reccuring trend. The inability to stay competitive throughout the entire game is a recent problem. “We need to put a complete game together, and get over the hump of playing with good teams is necessary,” Andrew McNulty 11’ said. McNulty could be the catalyst the Little Hawks have been looking for, after missing early action with an injured hand. Averaging 11.2 points per game, the senior has been one of the few consistent pieces of the squad. Looking ahead to sub-state games, the obvious areas of concern will need to be addressed and corrected. “Well, we’ve been working hard and don’t have much to show for it, so to get a ‘W’, I’d
photo by WILLBENSON STRIKE: Jon Hartley ‘11 aims for the pins against Dubuque Senior on January 15th. City High lost to Senior 3293- 2771.
by Mikey Hunter
photos by DESTINEEGWEE FAST BREAK: Jeremy Johnson ‘12 goes in for the lay up against Iowa City West on January 14th. City High lost 46- 57. Cortez Barield 12 (Top) Jeremy Johnson ‘12 (Middle) and Lonnie Chester ‘13 (Bottom) all contributed in that game for the Little Hawks.
say that would be a goal of our’s before sub-state starts,” McNulty said. “Closing out games has been a problem, so for us to do anything in the playoffs, that will need to be fixed.” With the increasing pressure
to get that elusive first win, Mr. Bacon has offered a more playful approach to get them a win by agreeing to shave his head upon completion. That opportunity will come tonight when City travels to Cedar Rapids Kennedy.
Boys and girls bowling season of work will be put up to the test at Regionals on February 19th. Regionals will decide if the squad will qualify to the state tournament in Des Moines at Plaza Lanes. City High’s most recent dual was a double defeat from Dubuque Senior. Boys highest roller was Austin Kibler with a 236-176 while Brittany Tack rolled a 178-169 for the girls. Bowling teams next home meet will be February 4th at Colonial Lanes.
Sports
January 28, 2011 Swimming
Sports
Results
Boys Swimming MVC Meet 3rd CR Jefferson W 115-48 Linn Mar W 109- 61 Burlington Invitational 2nd/14
photo by JINDALAESUH
TAKEOFF: Cam Herting ‘11 dives in into the 50 Freestyle against Linn Mar on January 4th. Herting finished third with a time of 23.66 and City went on to defeat Linn Mar 109-61.
State Title In Reach
Boys swimming will attempt to end Cedar Rapid Washingtons district title streak of 47 consecutive years by Michael Hunter The fifth ranked boys swimming team’s undefeated streak of 11 will be tested when they travel to Marshalltown for the state tournament. “Our goal is to get top three at state,” said Harris Thompson ‘11 who competes in the 200 I.M. “My goal individually is to make it there.” City High finished ninth last year with small numbers but looks to be one of the contenders for the state title this year. Its varsity squad will return to districts this year with even more expierence then last year. The 400 Freestyle Relay of McAllister, McMillin,Weideman and Herting
is currently ranked second in the state champion in the 500 free is state. one of them.” “This year we Also returning have stronger, older from last year’s and mentally stronsquad is Colin Mcger swimmers.” said Callister 11’. Mchead coach John Callister finished Burkle. fifth last year in One of these swimthe 500 Free and mers is two-time and broke the 29 year defending 500 free old 500 Free restate champion Cam cord with a time of Herting. Herting won 4:42.39 at the MVC the 500 free last FebSuper Meet hosted ruary with a time of at Mercer. McAl- John Burkle 4:35.42, two seconds lister is currently faster than the runner ranked third in the up. 200 Free. “We have many goals for “For Colin to take the 200 Free state,” said John Burkle. “For Cam title is another goal,” said Burkle. Herting to become a three time “We just want as many guys on
“This year we have stronger, older and have better mentally prepared swimmers.”
the podium as we can so we can get a top three finish.” City High finished third at the Mississippi Valley Conference Super Meet held at Mercer. Cedar Falls won the meet. For now the team will continue practicing morning and after school until their tough district meet with Cedar Rapids Washington, who has won the district for the last 47 years.
LITTLEHAWK.COM Log on to view video of boys swimming district meet at Cedar Rapids Washington.
Hamm Leads Way
by Michael Hunter Brent Hamm ‘11 entered this season unknown and unranked, but now he is one of the contenders for the 160 lb state title. Hamm is currently ranked 8th with a 31-5 record that includes three technical falls and eight pins. One of the Hamm’s most impressive match wasn’t a victory but a close 9-6 decision against top ranked Justin Koethe of Iowa City West earlier this season. But despite bright personal possibilities, Brent’s main goal is for his team. “Our team has improved a lot this season but we still have to tune up some spots before districts,” Hamm said. City High started the season rough but has climbed back to 1111 and 6-4 in the Mississippi Conference and currently has four ranked wrestlers. Cody Donnely, who played basketball his sophomore year, is currently ranked 9th at 285 with a 31-5 record. Donnely plans to continue his football career next year at Iowa Western. City High traveled to Centerville, Iowa for the Big Red Invita-
Wrestling
Roster
Bean City Duals 3-2 Centerville 2nd Lancer Duals 2-3 Dubuque Hempstead W 38-31 Waterloo East W 67-9
Boys Basketball CR Washington L 47-58 Bettendorf L 52-60 IC West L 47-56 Cedar Falls L 45-69
Girls Basketball CR Washington L 54-57 Des Moines Lincoln W 74- 42 Iowa City West L 65-56 Cedar Falls W 52- 23
103 Michael Hunter 112 Alex Lemus 119 De’Arius Salibi 125 Evgeney Kolyvanov 130 Bryton Jones 135 Mitch Hasler 140 Tyler Hill 145 Trey Odle 152 Andrew Mahone 160 Brent Hamm 171 Kody Dailey 189 Steve Ferentz 215 Brad Gingerich 285 Cody Donnelly tional where the Little Hawks finished second out of the 16 teams. “I think we did great as a team. There were a few matches here and there that we could have won that we let get away, but overall a solid day,” Hamm said. The last round where City High won its seven out of ten place matches put them ahead of Knoxville for runner-up of the tournament. Hamm and Donnely both fin-
Wrestling
Dubuque Hempstead W 51-50
Boys Bowling Linn Mar L Dubuque Senior L CR Xavier W
photo by ANNELISEJACOBSON
NEAR-FALL: Brad Gingerich ‘11 works to pin his Dubuque Hempstead opponent on January 6th. City High defeated Dubuque Hempstead 38-31.
ished runners up. Michael Hunter, Andrew Mahone, Kody Dailey, Steve Ferentz and Brad Gingerich also won medals. “We wrestled well in the consolations,” said assistant coach Morgan Depregner. “That helped us put us ahead of Knoxville.” The following Saturday, City High hosted the Clyde Bean
Duals. West Des Moines Valley claimed the title while City went 3-2 with Brent Hamm and Cody Donnelly making the all-tournament team with five wins on the day. Kody Dailey, Brad Gingerich and Michael Hunter all earned their 50th career wins at the dual tournament.
Girls Bowling Linn Mar L Dubuque Senior L CR Xavier L
Rec League Sports
January 28, 2011
Countless hours spent at the line. Perfecting that tough teardrop runner in the lane. Hoisting up three after three until the gym lights go out. It’s that time of year people: the grueling steps of obtaining a coveted Rec League Championship are upon us. If your looking for high tempo, high octane competition in your weekday, look no further. The games at fabled Robert E Lee Rec do not disappoint. From teams loaded on experience- chalk full of seasoned veterans, to new up tempo expansion teams, bloodthirsty for a piece of history- the goal is unvarying, and hearts will be broken. We’ll give you an exclusive look at all 10 teams, chomping at the bit in anticipation for chilly Wednesday afternoon games.
The Field 2011
Above Average Joes After holding off rivals Lightning Strike in last year’s championship as Jackin’ It Early and Often, the boys of winter can’t be a surprising bet to be in the hunt yet again. Scrappy guard Jack Kregel 11’ uses his aggressiveness on and off the court, and with a veteran led front court of Karl Fleener 11’ and Cody Donnelly 11’, they look prime to repeat. Defensive POY candidate Joe Fefee 11’ and feared deepball threat James “Hank the Bank” Henkhaus 11’ are key arrivals, while Will Benson 11’ and Robbie Nauman 11’ look to stretch the D for the Joe’s.
Tate High
After having one of the most explosive teams in the league last season, they mysteriously don’t seem to be getting any younger. Ex-City starter Jerel Moore anchors the unit. The athleticism will be there undoubtedly, so they should be a dark horse in the late postseason push.
on the
SPOT
Flint Tropics
The Tropics are a team with a common goal: Merge with the NBA at all costs. Known for catchy slogans such as “Lets Get Tropical!” and a description of the league“It’s like the Titanic... but full of bears,” that couldn’t be phrased more appropriately. One glaring weakness is Nate Winegarden 11’.... seriously (confirmed via Twitter). They were looking forward to playing Floonsquad, so check local gyms for a exhibition like no other.
Riverside Hurricanes
The relatively unknown Riverside boys represent their church by playing on the hardwood.With captain Keivon Williams 12’ bringing the team together and guard Kevin Washington 13‘, look for them to rely on the dribble drive to compete.
Swishin’ Sweets
The focal point in the Sweet’s attack is guard Cedric Readus 11’. The senior journeyman was picked up off Tate’s team the season before, and defenses will adjust accordingly to a slower tempo offense with a great t-shirt design. Look for Ben Schroder 11’ to throw it down this year too.
F.S.U.
Last years miserable Rabble Rousers have split up and are looking to the future for improvement. Big men Jake Binggeli 12’ and Nile Banks 12’ give FSU a presence in the paint. Newcomers Jason Tiemeyer 12’ and high flying Dan Roemerman 12’ will need to play stiff D to contain the many dangerous backcourts in the league.
What team is going to win the Rec League Championship?
“Me and Zach”
-John Hartley 11’
“Flint Tropics” -Andrew McNulty ‘11 Bobby Millard 11’
PLAYMAKERPROFILE camherting YEAR: Senior SPORT: Swimming
Little Hawk: What are your team goals? Herting: Win districts and place top 3 at state LH: How long have you been swimming? Herting: Nine years LH: What are your post high school plans? Herting: Go to college for pre-med and swim LH: How does Coach Burkle motivate you guys? Herting: Pure love unless your on junior varsity LH: Best part about the swim season? Herting: Seeing Burkle daily
Hoops! I Did It Again
Master Bait & Tackle As City struggles throughout the regular season, some answers may lie in Grif Hasler’s new squad. Former Varsity guards Zach Mennen 11’ and John Hartley 11’ give the upstart team a Turkoglu-Reddick shooters combo right here in the IC Rec Division. Opposing D’s will force the ball down to bruiser Jordan Roetman 11’, providing a physical punch in the low block. Chemistry, however, is an increasing issue, as Grif kindly states it- “I Hate Mennen.”
This junior ensemble is rearing to go, wanting to make a name for themselves for the next two years using a run and gun offense. They’re led by Bobby Razavi, younger bro of notorious rec-ball schemer Austin, out to make a name for himself. With reigning Rookie of the Year 10th man Desmond McCalla 12’ and guard Josh Cabbage 12’, with his fiesty younger sister Micah cheering him on, they’ll be a tough out.
Pokeballerz
This junior unit wants to share the ball evenly and work towards fundamental basketball. Black hole Spencer Roach 12’ in the middle will receive the most attention defensively, so jumpers should emerge for Erik McCoy 12’. They also have their own Big Baby Davis in emotional leader Felix Mulligan 11’ as an inside outside threat.
“Felix’s team”
-Jack Kregel 11’
“Above Average Joes”
-Mason Greer 12’
D.U.I.
With a young team, expectations are lowalong with their verticals. Look for them to be hanging well below the rim this season yet again. Sources report X-Factor Logan Benge 12’ won’t see the floor in the first few games due to a recent grounding, so shooters Trent Bedford 12’ and Aaron McDonough 12’ will have to pick up the slack.
“Tate!”
-Nick Dohohoe 11’
“That Riverside team”
-Nick Dildine ‘11
interview by will benson
LH: Who’s your top role model? Herting: John Burkle. LH: What’s your favorite school subject? Herting: Español LH: Pre-meet song? Herting: Hard In Da Paint - Flocka! LH: Are you a fan of the speedo? Herting: I am a fan of the speedo. LH: Favorite stroke? Herting: Freestyle
LH: What’s your best event? Herting: 500 freestyle LH: What’s your pre-meet meal? Herting: Pasta with a lot of Gatorade LH: What’s one question you want me to ask? Herting: Who is my favorite rapper? LH: And the answer is? Herting: Colin McAlllister. Or Waka Flocka. Depends on the day.