The Growl
Bettendorf High School
Friday, Sept. 25, 2015
Vol. 52 Issue 1
BHS welcomes new staff by Brandon Gore and Karly Lent Staff Reporters Tyler Strodtman: Counselor BA: Iowa State, 2007 MA: University of Northern Iowa, 2011 Years taught: 3 Previous job: Worked at West Branch Middle School Favorite part about teaching: “It is interesting to see wide range developmental issues between different ages. There is a lot of life and energy with high school students, and I never go home tired.” What I do at the high school: “I am a counselor which means I am a helper. I help students to develop goals, achieve academic goals, and to develop a sense of who they are.” Family: Wife-Josie, Daughter-June (1) Fun Fact: “One time I was on a bus in Mexico that caught on fire.” What I want students to know about me: “I am really excited to be here. I’ve heard good things about Bettendorf, and I am impressed with the system here.” Clint Heitz: Teacher BA: University of Iowa, 2006 MA: Western Illinois, 2014 Years taught: Pleasant Valley teacher from 20062014 Previous job: Teacher at Pleasant Valley Favorite part about teaching: “Every year there is a new, interesting, batch of students. Seeing their new dynamics is the best part.” What I do at the high school: “I am an English teacher.” Family: Wife, daughter (6) Fun Fact: “I am part of the Thespian group and played Chino in “West Side Story”.” What I want students to know about me: “Students always have support, and I am always available to help.” Caleb Claus: Teacher BA: University of Northern Iowa, 2015 Years taught: Cedar Falls High School, student teacher, 2015 Previous job: Campus resident assistant Favorite part about teaching: “Getting to know and see new students every day and help them learn.” What I do at the high school: “I am a mathematics teacher.” Family: Fiance Fun Fact: “Sports and music are my two main hobbies.” What I want students to know about me: “I am always relaxed, easy going. I make my class as fun as possible.”
Brennen Schmertmann: Teacher BA: University of Northern Iowa Years taught: Student teacher at Durant High School before starting at Bettendorf last January. Previous job: Deere Run grounds crew Favorite part about teaching: “It is interesting to help students learn in a variety of different ways and see the different ways that that is possible.” What I do at the high school: “I am a mathematics teacher.” Family: No family Fun Fact: “I play guitar.” What I want students to know about me: “I am really laid back, not strict, and always open to help.” Kevin Trettin: Special Educator BA: University of Northern Iowa, 2003 MA: Morningside College, 2015 Years taught: 13 Previous Job: Art teacher at Clinton High School, middle school math teacher Favorite part about teaching: “Working with the students. It doesn’t matter what I’m teaching, it’s all about the kids.” What I do at the high school: “I’m a strategist for math.” Family: Wife-Glenda (14 yrs), Tienna (14), Clay (12), Kiya (11), Malachi (10), Jayna (7), and Amiya (4) Fun Fact: “I ride a Harley.” What I want students to know about me: “I’m an active foster parent. I have fostered 30 kids in the past four years. Two of my sons are adopted from Africa, and two of my daughters are adopted our of foster care.” Sarah Hackbarth: Special Educator BA: Iowa State, 2008 MA: Currently working on MA at Morningside College Years taught: 1 Previous job: Guest teacher for Bettendorf and North Scott school districts, also worked for a credit union Favorite part about teaching: “My favorite part about teaching is working with the kids. I like getting to know students in class and building relationships with them.” What I do at the high school: “I’m a strategist. I teach one class by myself which is called ‘Success Skills.’ I also coteach english and science classes.” Family: Husband-Ryan, pregnant with a girl (due in Nov.) Fun Fact: “I love to sing.” What I want students to know about me: “I care about them. I want students to know that they can always come to me with questions or concerns.”
John Galantis: Security Guard BA: University of Northern Iowa Years taught: Never worked in a school district before Previous job: Retired correctional officer after 25 years Favorite part about teaching: “Everybody is happy here.” What I do at the high school: “I try to keep everyone safe, from others and themselves. I help students solve problems when they need help or if they ask.” Family: No family Fun Fact: “I taught welding, tool and die, and punch and break operation.” What I want students to know about me: “If I tell you something, you can believe it. I will not lie to you, even if you may not like it.” Beth Thompson: Special Educator BA: Eastern Kentucky University, 2003 MA: Western Illinois University, 2015 Years taught: 9 Previous job: 5th grade teacher and junior high teacher in Sylvis, Ill., high school teacher in Wittenmyer, JB Young, West High School, and Mark Twain Elementary School Favorite part about teaching: “I like working with kids.” What I do at the high school: “I am a special educator. I teach success skils and I co-teach math.” Family: Husband-Todd, Daughter-Lila (7) Fun Fact: “I’m an adrenaline junky. I have been skydiving, bunjee jumping and base jumping.” What I want students to know about me: “I’m excited to be here and I’m excited to be teaching back at a high school.” Dave Jenkins: Academic Interventionalist BA: Taylor University, 2005 MA: Ashford University, 2011 Years taught: 8 Previous job: P.E. teacher at East Central Schools for grades K-12, P.E. teacher at Davenport West High School Favorite part about teaching: “I like to see the students grow and mature.” What I do at the high school: “I am an academic interventionalist. I assist students who are struggling in a class. I’m also a strength and conditioning coach, where I work with the student athletes after school.” Family: Wife-Erin, Levi (5), Cooper (3), Wes (almost 2) Fun Fact: “I used to train pit crews for Dale Earnheardt Jr., Jeff Gordon, and Kasey Kahne.” What I want studetns to know about me: I’m willing to help anyone who wants help.”
Tricia Cichosz: Media Specialist BA: St. Ambrose University, 2006 MA: Western Illinois, 2012 Years taught: 9 Previous job: Fourth grade teacher, special education, and teacher librarian all at Mark Twain Elementary School Favorite part about teaching: “I like making connections and forming relationships with students. I want students to want to become lifelong learners.” What I do at the high school: “I teach integration needs. I want there to be more book clubs, and I want to collaborate with students. The library is a place for students and a place for inventing things.” Family: Husband-Scott, DaughtersSydney (6) and Avery (2) Fun Fact: “I am from Minnesota.” What I want students to know about me: “You can find me in the library, and I want you to use the library as a resource in your learning. I am here as an educator and I’m always open to new ideas, to teach, to collaborate, to learn, and to be supportive of anything that is student driven.”
Index Page 2: Opinion • Column, The Snarl Page 3: Features • Show Choir, Fall Musical Page 4: Features • Yearbook Changes Page 5: Features • Debate Nationals, Field Trip Page 6: Features • Artwork, Review Page 7: Sports • Tennis Courts, Student Trainers, Boys Swimming Page 8: • Meet the Growl staff, Homecoming Spirit Week events. Visit us at bettgrowl.com.
02 Opinion
Sept. 25, 2015
The Growl Editorial
The
S
NARL
Back to school is sometimes a difficult transition, whether you are an eighth grader to freshman, moving from one school to another, becoming a senior with more responsibilities, trying not to catch a case of senioritis, or even if you’re coming from another country, such as the foreign exchange students. Whichever student you may be, welcome to the 2015/16 school year. This year there are new facilities being built outside the school, such as the tennis courts, which are going to be behind the old ones and the old ones are to be resurfaced. In regard to new additions to the school, Bettendorf has gained several new faculty members. There is a new media specialist in the library, a new security guard roaming the halls, a new mental health counselor in the guidance office, a new choir director and a few math teachers and an English teacher in classrooms. This year there are an abundance of clubs to join, for a chance to get involved, meet new people, and improve the community.
New year, new opportunities: make the most of them Such clubs are Best Buddies, FCCLA, KEY, FCA, math, drama, show choir, RSVP, foreign language, science, speech and debate, and Scholastic Bowl. Each club has an individualized purpose. Best Buddies provides a bond between a buddy with a disability. You can become a buddy or mentor. FCCLA stands for Family, Career, and Community Leaders of America. This club includes community service around the school as well as the community. For example, last year the club made cookies for anursing home and collected coffee for the women and men’s shelter. KEY club goes around the community, collecting money for people. This year they are making Thanksgiving baskets at the holiday. FCA stands for Fellowship of Christian Athletes. It meets in the morning and discusses Bible scriptures and inspiring sport stories. There are foreign language clubs
not be able to reach it while driving, and making sure your full concentration is on your driving. These practices could be used not only while you’re on school campus, but as a general rule. Finally, if you need help--academic, social, physical or mental--there is someone here to help you. Teachers, guidance counselors, administrators, the school nurse, social worker, and school psychologist are all here to help students. If you need more help than any of those listed can produce, they will help you find someone who can help you. You are not alone, no matter what you may be going through. Take advantage of the opportunities offered at the high school. Take advantage of the people here to help you and to have fun with. Whatever way you may be spending the 2015-2016 school year, make sure to make it memorable--and always be proud to be a Bulldog.
Wanted: cartoonist/artist
Column
We scream for ice cream by Karly Lent Staff Reporter Whether you like chocolate or vanilla, soft or hard, in a cup or on a cone...ice cream is the perfect treat for all ages. Around the Quad Cities, we have multiple places to grab a bite of ice cream, like Whiteys, Dairy Queen, Maggie Moo’s, Country Style, and Coldstone Creamery. “I think Whitey’s is overpriced,” Annel Lueth said. “The workers are nice but I like Dairy Queen better!” Damaris Stroker agrees with Lueth. “Dairy Queen all the way,” Stroker said. Personally, I can’t even believe that Whitey’s is disliked by some because it is hands down my favorite place to get ice cream. I eat ice cream at least three times a week, and I probably go to Whitey’s at least once a week. I agree that Whitey’s can be bit pricey, but I believe it’s worth every cent because it’s so delicious! When I go to Whitey’s, you can see me ordering the flavors sergeant camo, graham central station, chocolate chip cookie dough, or praline pecan. Those aren’t the only ones, though; there are so many different choices to choose from! When I’m not feeling a shake, I might go to Coldstone Creamery or Maggie
allowing you to learn about the language and culture. Sign language club offers a chance to learn a new language as well. Speech and debate is for those who like to speak on current topics and argue for one side or the other. Plus there are all kinds of sports to be involved in. If you can’t find something to be involved in, look again--several “unofficial” clubs have sprung up in the past few years, like pingpong, which is open to anyone. When it comes to the safety of ourselves and others, there is the ALICE program, put in place to ensure that if an intruder were to come into the school, faculty, staff and students take the proper precautions to protect themselves. Safety in regards to driving includes being careful driving in the parking lot and around the school, putting down your phone, putting it in a place where you may
Moo’s, where I can watch the workers add mixins on the stone slab. I usually like to get a basic ice cream flavor like vanilla, birthday cake, or chocolate, and then add in all the other ingredients I like. Mikey Trahan is a regular at Maggie Moo’s. “I love Maggie Moo’s because my favorite flavor is their chocolate better batter,” Trahan said. “But at Maggie Moo’s, you don’t just get ice cream...you can add in whatever you want. I always get brownies and cookie dough.” According to icecream.com, America’s first ice cream parlor was opened in New York in 1776 and from that day on, Americans have been enjoying the frozen treats we call ice cream. In 1984, the U.S. declared July as national ice cream month, which is fitting for the hot summer months when everybody wants to cool down with some nice cold treats. If you’re in a bad mood or need to be cheered up, go and eat some ice cream! I believe that ice cream can fix any type of situation, and put any person in a better mood. Whether it’s a cold summertime treat, midnight snack, or just a craving you’ve been having, there’s never a bad time to eat ice cream!
The Growl would like to have a regular cartoon to publish in both the newspaper and online. If you are an artist and would like to give it a try, submit your cartoons to the journalism lab (D100). Requirements: unlined sketch paper, black ink, line drawing. Sketches should be on 8x10 paper, as the sketch will have to be scanned. Photoshopped images accepted, but cannot contain any copyrighted images. No compensation other than the satisfaction of seeing your work published.
Wanted: opinion columnist
The Growl would like to publish a regular opinion column by a student other than a staff member. If you would like to see your opinion in the Growl, submit your idea by email to Olivia Teach, editor, at 113333@g.bettendorf.k12.ia.us or to the adviser at cking@ bettendorf.k12.ia.us. Requirements: all ideas must be school-appropriate; you can criticize ideas, but not people. Standard rules of writing must be followed, including spelling, punctuation, capitalization and grammar. The editorial board retains the right to reject any column. Anonymous work will not be accepted or published. No compensation other than the satisfaction of seeing your words published.
Growl Staff
Editor: Olivia Teach Reporters and Photographers: Leah Evans, Brandon Gore, Noah Johnson, Selena Johnson, Karly Lent, Annette Schneider. bettgrowl.com Editor: Noah Johnson. Adviser: Connie King. Mascot: Newsie. The Growl is a member of the Iowa High School Press Association (IHSPA) and the Journalism Education Association. Visit us at bettgrowl.com. “Like” us on Facebook (bettmedia).
The Growl accepts all signed Letters to the Editor by the student body. Letters may be edited for length, grammar, and clarity. Letters may be dropped off in D100, journalism lab or emailed to bhsgrowl@gmail.com.
Newsie is checking out the latest edition of Bettgrowl.com.
Sept. 25, 2015
Features
03
Prep show choir kicks off first year By Leah Evans Staff Reporter
The Decibelles are Bettendorf’s very first prep show choir. The all female group includes singers and dancers from all grade levels. Rehearsals started with a three day choreography camp in August with a professional choreographer. On the first day, the girls learned what songs they will be performing, and each day they learned a different dance. “The theme of our show is living life to the fullest and making the most of the days you have,” Andrea Cooper said. “The first day was really overwhelming since I don’t have dance experience and dancing is the most challenging part. Overall, camp was a blast, and I’m glad I did it,” Stevi Mulvehill said. “There’s a lot of energy and it’s a good environment to be in because everyone wants to be there and works together,” Katie Lent said. The girls practice one or two times each week with Andrea Cooper, the coach and new Women’s Chorale director. They break down each song to get a better understanding of the dance combinations. They also
start learning the lyrics to the songs and see how they fit in with the choreography. “We focus on basic choreography to improve their dance skills to give students without dance experience to improve,” Cooper said. “We have to get used to having to sing and dance at the same time,” Maddie Springfield said. “It’s helpful because it gives you some experience before Surround Sound,” Mulvehill said. The show choir competition season starts in January and the Decibelles plan to attend four to five competitions before the final show with Surround Sound in March. “I’m looking forward to going and getting to meet people from other groups,” Springfield said. “I’ve never gotten to compete before so it is exciting and new,” Lent said. “We hope to have a wonderful year and continue to have the music program grow,” Cooper said. The first performance for the Decibelles and Surround Sound will be at the show choir Winter Showcase on Dec. 5.
The members of the Decibelles include Kiara Burmeister, Holly Harrington, Katherine Cornwell, Brandy Smith, Ardalia Tracy, Chi Mogi, Stevi Mulvehill, Ryley Tidrick, Julia Krist, Shanda Westerkamp, Maddie Pessman, Signey Bowling, Essence Young, Sylvia Freidhot Cruz, Leah Evans, Maddie Springfield, Abigail Saathoff, Katie Lent, Becca Davis, Hannah Heberling, Ariana Rinehart, Annabel Prado and Kayla Hammons.
Fall musical starts strong Choirs prepare By Leah Evans Staff Reporter
The Bettendorf High School Theatre Department is presenting the 2005 Tony Award winning musical, “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee” this Oct. 8-10. “Generally, the theatre department presents only one musical and one play, but this year decided to present two musicals. This particular musical is a great fit for the department,” said director of theatre, Katie Howard. “I love getting to do two musicals this year because I love to sing and, to me, music makes things more interesting,” senior Lindsey Sheldon said. “With more musicals, you can do different styles and attract different people and it definitely gives more people more opportunities.” “Actors get more experience with two shows. You also form stronger bonds and make new friends,” sophomore Ali Girsch said. The nine person cast is a big change from the nearly 80 person casts of spring musicals. The cast includes Cole Harksen,
Halle Fish, Grant Mougin, Ty Lane, Molly Seybert, Ali Girsch, Lindsey Sheldon, Grant Nickles and Alex Packard. “It also gives me the opportunity to work student on a more individual level. I find that smaller cast shows bring the actors together more than a larger show because they all interact with each other in every scene, there is never anyone sitting backstage waiting, they’re all there all the time,” Howard said. “Putnam County” is a different kind of musical because it includes audience participation, something that can be unfamiliar to young actors. “It will be tons of fun for the actors and audience, but it will be a challenge for the actors because every production will be different and they will have to adjust,” Howard said. The show was also selected to be performed as the opening production at the Iowa Thespian Festival in front of a nearly 1,000 member audience in November.
for Metrofest By Leah Evans Staff Reporter Every fall, high schools from the Quad Cities and surrounding areas get the chance to perform together in the Metrofest concert. “Metrofest gives musicians in the area a chance to unite as one big unit,” Brandon Fraseur said. “My favorite part of Metrofest is getting put into a different group than you are used to. You get to blend differently and hear different voices,” Halle Fish said. The choirs spend all afternoon in rehearsals with their directors and get to meet students from other schools. They get to eat dinner together before the performance. “The music performed at Metrofest is used for All State and Opus (freshmen only) honor choirs and prepares the students for those auditions,” Fraseur said. Most entry level or non-audition choir
Invited to Metrofest! Pleasant Valley High School October 5 7 p.m. “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee” is the winner of two Tony Awards for Best Book of a Musical and Best Performance by a Featured Actor in a musical. It was also nominated for 4 other awards including Best Musical.
$5 for parents and students
ensembles perform the Opus music at Metrofest. This year, they have four songs. The highest level groups perform the All State music. The students who make the All State choir in October represent the best singers in the state. They will perform seven songs. The women’s choirs perform the four treble choir songs. Bettendorf High School will now be represented in all three groups with the addition of the Women’s Chorale this year. Combined, the groups sing “America the Beautiful” and “Battle Hymn of the Republic” to open and close the concert. “We all come together to perform together and share music at Metrofest,” Mary Therese Gehrmann said. Metrofest will take place at Pleasant Valley High School on Oct. 5.
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04
Time capsule
Sept. 25, 2015
Feature
Dear future self Yearbook changes to new publisher
The yearbook was delivered as usual the staff is still in the process of setting on the first day of school, but with a up the order form, both as a paper copy to difference this year: it’s the last yearbook hand out and an electronic copy to purchase from the Jostens publishing company. The personalization online. yearbook will be published by Pixolution The yearbook will still be a fall delivery Publishing, a company headquartered in book, meaning students will get the books Mankato, Minnesota. on the first day of school in the fall. King The yearbook explained the reasons adviser, Connie for a fall delivery. King, explained “Schools that do the reasons for a spring delivery the change. generally have their “Jostens had last deadline in raised the price January, meaning of the yearbook nothing after January c o n s i d e r a b l y, is in the book--no to the point in spring sports, prom which we would or graduation. Spring have to charge The prototype of the cover for the 2016 delivery schools a registration yearbook is being worked on, but this usually do a locallycost of $80 a gives an idea of what it will look like. printed supplement book to break The theme for 2016 is “So, What’s Your for spring sports, but even. We’ve Story?” since graduation is been charging usually the very last $60 a book day of the school for years and did not want to change, so, year, there is no way to include graduation when Pixolution came along with a better in a supplement. Since graduation is such price, we jumped at it,” she said. “We’ll an important part of a school year, I’ve be able to keep the registration cost of the always thought it should be included. I yearbook at $60.” suspect that students looking back through King urges anyone wanting a yearbook their books in 20 years will be glad to see to buy it at the registration cost, as the price graduation,” she said. goes up to $65 a book in November, then Anyone who still needs to buy a yearbook $70 a book in February. Books purchased can go to the activity office to pay for one, at delivery also cost $70. or come to the journalism lab in D100 to Pixolution offers personalization for pay for one. Also 2015 yearbooks are still yearbooks just like Jostens did; however, available for $70 in the journalism lab.
If you have not yet received your 2015 yearbook, stop in the journalism lab to pick up your book!
By Olivia Teach Editor
Dear Future Self, future version of themselves. And now, 14 A time capsule is a receptacle containing years later, the letters are being returned to documents or objects typical of the current the original writers as well as daughters and period, placed in sons of the owners. the earth or in a Wilming and his cornerstone for colleague, Dan Eizyk, discovery in the used social media future. to track down the Rodger Wilming letters’ owners. One proposed such an of the letters Wilming idea in 1998, when returned one to a he was a subbing student, whose mom for a teacher that had written the letter. had quit, leaving no He said he would lesson plans. like to start another “How this Wilming returns a letter to student time capsule. By the h a p p e n e d in class. time that Wilming was a happy retires, he will have 90 coincidence,” letters from one of his Wilming said. “ Honestly, It was more out classes and in 10 years, those letters will of necessity than anything else.” be returned. He told his class of 2001 they were write And Wilming asked, “What would your a letter to their future selves. These letters peers write today?” are written about what they wanted to tell Sincerely yours, Current Self
Excited for homecoming By Annette Schneider Yearbook Editor
“I am looking forward to being with my friends at dinner. We are going to the Davenport Country Club and taking pictures on the golf course. I am also excited for the theme this year which is Greek,” Madi Hornbuckle said. Hornbuckle, a junior, is going to homecoming with Tucker Schoenfelder and already knows what she is doing to get ready for the dance, yet she does not have a dress yet. “I have a hair appointment, nail appointment and I am getting my makeup done at Sephora,” Hornbuckle said. Katie Byrne is going to her junior homecoming with Charlie Hayes. “I am excited to spend time with my friends. I am also looking forward to taking pictures and playing night games at the after party,” Byrne said.
Tasia Comer, a senior, is looking forward to taking pictures with her group of 35 people. “Collin Stickler asked me and I was completely surprised. If it was not for him asking me I probably would not be going to the dance,” Comer said. Sam Hall, a senior, is going with Jenna Bakeris and is looking forward to eating dinner and the after party. “I am getting ready by buying the appropriate clothes and going with the flow,” Hall said. Hall, as well as Comer, is on homecoming court and were both excited and surprised when they found out. “I would have gone to homecoming anyway because I already asked Jenna, but it makes it more exciting now,” Hall said.
Debate students pleased with nationals By Noah Johnson BettGrowl Online Editor Owen Weber, Brandon Alpern and “I had an amazing experience. I like the Adejoke Mason placed higher than any style of debate most commonly used in other Bettendorf High School student nationals, so I tend to be more relaxed at ever at the National Speech and Debate this tournament than any others, which is Tournament in Dallas, Texas, on June a little crazy considering it’s the biggest. 14-19, 2015. Weber and Alpern placed The best part is probably meeting so 16th out of 273 many new entries in public people from forum debate. around the Mason placed country who 69th out of are so clearly 262 entries into what I’m in Lincolninto. I think Douglas debate. I made some “Bettendorf friendships this High School’s year that are speech and really going debate team to last. I also has qualified really enjoy students to getting to the national travel with my t o u r n a m e n t National qualifiers Owen Weber, team and hang for the last 15 Adejoke Mason, and Brandon Alpern. out with them years.” said Joe in really cool Rankin, the debate coach. cities. My friends and I did some really For the 2015 NSDA Tournament, fun shopping in Dallas!” Mason said. Bettendorf qualified 10 student to compete “The number one goal we have for next in nationals. The students, in addition to year is to win at Nationals,” Weber said. Weber, Alpern and Mason, were Hazel Mason said, “My goal is to just be better Ambort, Lilli Ambort, Marianna Hurd, than I was the year before.” and Robert Norwood in world schools The National Speech & Debate debate; John Bai in Lincoln-Douglas Association is the largest interscholastic debate; Travis Hazelett in student congress speech and debate organization serving senate; and Josh Kinyon in international middle school, high school, and collegiate extemporaneous speaking. students in the United States. The The speech and debate team spent weeks association provides competitive speech in advance preparing for nationals. and debate activities, comprehensive Weber said, “To qualify for nationals, we training, and scholarship opportunities to had to be one of the final two teams in East more than 130,000 students and coaches Iowa at a district tournament. We spent every year. weeks preparing beforehand and had to go up against some of the best teams in the state.”
Sept. 25, 2015
Features
05
Students who visited Russell Construction included: Dylan Canas, Kailyn Hennings, Noble Esser, Keagan Flaherty, Lucas Franich, Brandon Gore, Benjamin Houk, Nicholas Jackson, Chase Jungwirth, Tyler Jungwirth, Trae Ketcham, Garrett Kuhrt, Xavier Lee, Brendan Minnich, Cameron Rands, Kole Dietz, Brett Schmidt, Clayton Shepherd, William Sherman, Ana Sperling, Chris Stevens, Andrew Sunderman, Cole Teshak and Jonathon Toppert.
Field trip takes students outside By Brandon Gore Staff Reporter
Friday morning, Sept. 18, students had a different classroom, exchanging their pencils and paper for hard hats and vests. The architectural design class had the opportunity to visit one of Russell Construction’s current projects. “This field trip allows the students to learn more about how their designs in the classroom tie in with construction,” said Dan Drexler, industrial technology teacher. Students had the opportunity to look at many pages of drawings and plans of industrial buildings, most of which they have already made in small scale. Furthermore, students got an up close tour of the construction site where they
learned about various elements needed to make an industrial building. For instance, how setting concrete should be done in near perfect conditions to prevent any cracks. “In a couple weeks students will design an industrial restaurant. It helps that they have seen how different industrial building can be and what it takes to make one,” Drexler said. The architectural design class focuses on building design in terms of functionality and aesthetics. Students learn about the many different types and trends of buildings and houses today including materials and foundations.
There’s a lot to think about when trying to select a college or university.
Explore the possibilities at the IQCCP College Fair
College Fair Monday, October 12 5:00 - 7:30 p.m. Visit with 90 colleges and universities at the college fair.
Rogalski Center - St. Ambrose University 518 West Locust Street, Davenport, IA
Located at the intersection of Ripley and Lombard Streets. Parking will be available in the Rogalski Center lot. One $1,000 scholarship will be awarded to a student from each sponsoring school.
Assumption High School Central High School North Scott High School West High School St. Ambrose University
Sponsored by:
Bettendorf High School North High School Pleasant Valley High School Scott Community College
For details about this event contact your guidance counselor or visit our website at www.sau.edu/iqccp/
06 Features Sept. 25, 2015
Artwork in school adds to positive atmosphere Compiled by the staff
According to “Children’s Work-Most schools have posters on their walls, exhorting students to study hard, Visibility Leads to Value” in Education World (Sept. have school 22, 2015), spirit, or to treat “Children people decently. can see for But BHS goes themselves beyond the what teachers usual wall are doing: decorations with [ Te a c h e r s ] artwork created are saying by students. [ c h i l d r e n ’s ] Artwork work is worthy is visual of public communication, attention. They showcasing see that their what students do work is being in the various art Amy Whiteman taken seriously. classes available Displaying for them to take. The artwork creates a positive their work tells them that their work is atmosphere in the building, with numerous important and that grown-ups value their compliments from students, families, and work.” Art teacher Hilary Puglisi said, “I display visitors. When a student’s work is chosen for display, the work is purchased from student work because I am proud. I have the student--which for many students, is seen their hard work, where they started the first time they have sold some of their and how they arrived at this awesome end work. It gives those students something of result. I find that students are proud of themselves to leave behind, according to themselves too and they enjoy seeing their work displayed. Tim Solbrig, art teacher. “It energizes a building, it shows that “We have a lot of talented artists in our school, and it’s a great way for them to get truly creative, talented students attend our some recognition for their creativity and school. Hopefully it awakens a feeling of creativity in their peers, that they too could hard work,” Solbrig said. The art work also shows the techniques create a masterpiece. When students, staff, and processes involved in students’ other adults walk through our building, it skills, which includes drawing, painting, says we not only rock the academics, we photography, spray paint and even have a variety of talents and here they are.” recyclable supplied, according to Karen Blomme, art teacher. “The content or subject matter is usually the students’ choices,” she said. “I’m glad our building administration has been supportive of the visual arts, and I know they plan to continue to adding student artwork to all areas of the school. It is also a great way for us to showcase what we are all about in the art department, and it shows students the types of things they can experience by taking an art course,” Solbrig said.
Chad Behal
Athena Bruner
Parker Hill
Bett Boosters welcome Moe’s By Karly Lent Staff Reporter
On Thurs., Aug. 27, a new Moe’s Southwest Grill opened on 53rd street in Davenport. In order to give the new employees some practice, Moe’s offered the Bettendorf Booster Club a fundraising opportunity where they would receive 100 percent of the profits made. Bettendorf c o m m u n i t y members enjoyed $5 meals the day before Moe’s opened and it was smiles all around. The line was all the way out the door with Bettendorf Booster Club members greeting everyone on their way in. “Welcome to Moe’s!” was shouted by the employees every now and then, giving the restaurant an upbeat, cheery feeling. Freshman Katie Lent thought the food was delicious.
“My favorite thing I had that night was the queso. It was just so tasty!” Lent said. The burritos are so big there that junior Evan Nietzel couldn’t even finish his meal. “The food is good but you’ll definitely need a carryout bag to eat the leftovers the next day,” Nietzel said. Founded in 2000 in Atlanta, Georgia, Moe’s is a casual, fast-food restaurant featuring southwestern food like burritos, quesadillas, nachos and salads. The protein options include: grass-fed steak, allnatural chicken, grainfed pulled pork, 100 percent ground beef or organic tofu. The restaurant can be compared to Pancheros or Chipotle because of the burritos you can order. The Davenport restaurant hours are 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Students decide Xbox One or Playstation 4 By Brandon Gore Staff Reporter According to a majority of students Although most preferred the Xbox One, interviewed, a few Ps4 fans had their the Xbox one own reasons including its is extremely features, ease of use, and comparable powerfulness; However, to the Ps4; seniors Andy Doyle, and Ian however, a Beck enjoy Xbox One for few features its supported games such as set the two Smite, Halo, Minecraft, and on opposite many more. Xbox One sides of the “Xbox One just seems spectrum for to be an all in one console, some students. something that Sony has never done,” said “The controller in the Xbox One is junior Grant Mougin. customizable and Senior Mitch Affrey just feels better in agreed, adding, “Sony your hands,” said has a bad history senior Andrew not only in the game Sunderman. industry.” Senior Nathan About 75 percent of Spencer rebutted the students seem Sunderman’s to prefer Xbox One, statement: “The with the others Ps4 controller supporting the Ps4 for Playstation 4 lights up and is various reasons. easier to use.”
Kourtney Bower
Homecoming! Check out Spirit Week on the back page! Katelyn Ramirez
Emily Kidwell
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Tennis courts being updated for improvement By Annette Schneider Yearbook Editor
The new tennis courts are supposed to be black and gold and have lights. We do not know all the details yet but our team is excited,” Nick Mulholland said. Mulholland started playing tennis his freshman year because his friends convinced him and he is glad he did. “Last year, my sophomore year, I went six and three for singles. I am also looking forward to playing Pleasant Valley this year,” Mulholland said. Emmie Skeen is looking forward to playing tennis her senior year on brand new courts. “I went out for tennis to try a new sport, and it went really well. I am excited for the new courts because the ones we have now have a lot of cracks in them,” Skeen said. Hannah Borgh is also excited for her junior year tennis season as well as being able to play on the new courts.
“The courts are making everyone excited about tennis and more people might want to play this year. We are also hoping it brings more people out to watch our games because the courts we have now are not in the best shape,” Borgh said. Mikey Pyevich has always played tennis growing up and in high school decided to quit his other sports just to focus on tennis. “Being on varsity last year was a really good experience. It was challenging and intense, especially when playing singles. The toughest part about tennis, though, is all mental,” Pyevich said. Pyevich is excited about the new courts and the possibilities it brings to Bettendorf. “We are keeping the old courts and hoping to resurface them next year. It will be a huge complex with around eight courts. Also, both teams, boys and girls, can practice at the high school at the same time,” Pyevich said.
The current courts will be resurfaced next year to make one big complex.
The progress of the new tennis courts is in the first few stages of being complete.
Boys swimming ready to wreak havoc Every Monday and for new people to join Thursday in the early the team and experience hours of 6 a.m., the boys the fun. According Pojar, swim team is working Spencer, and Andy Doyle, hard to prepare for its swimming is a family full upcoming season. of great people which Andrew Pojar said, makes the season worth it. “Even though the season Not only to they look is far away, we are forward to meets, but already preparing to take also pasta parties and the ourselves to the dome,” a friendly atmosphere. metaphor the team uses, Marty Resner, a math meaning they will have an teacher, explained that outstanding season. Nathan Spencer swimming is an action Nathan Spencer, a packed, and he can not senior and team captain, is always open wait for the season to start.
Student trainers help out on field
Sept. 25, 2015
Sports
07
muscle to make it feel better. The “game by Selena Johnson ready” is an ice water machine that cools Staff Reporter Athletic trainers, Craig Wainwright, a body part and also compresses it to Eric Knudson, and Jessica Wooldridge, make swelling go down. A compression find students that will voluntarily be a boot covers an athlete’s leg; it compresses student trainer and will help take care the leg to help swelling go down. Other of all the athletes. To become a student treatments are used, depending on the trainer is not hard at all; he or she just has athlete and injury. Athletes can also get treatment before a to show up. game and after. For games, student trainers New student trainers get trained how arrive at 4 p.m. to get the boys ready to to do the basics first, which is setting up play, which ranges to handing out heat water and learning how to wrap ice onto guard pills to taping wrists. Heat guard is people. Many of the student trainers want a pill that keeps the athletes hydrated on to go into the medical field in college that’s really hot days. why they sign up to be a student trainer. Student trainers also have to set up water “It’s a job that I am going into in the and more things for the games. Filling up future,” Annie Buckwalter said. over 75 water bottles and keeping them full Being a trainer takes commitment; for is one job; half-time Gatorade is another example, there are 6 a.m. practices on job that student trainers do; they make Saturdays and hot and cold days, Gatorade and fill up enough cups for all of “I’m committed and I’m not a quitter,” the athletes. Then, timeout water is when Peyton Phillips said. the trainers have to walk out on to the field The student trainers set up the water for on timeouts and practice, which breaks to give means that the the athletes trainer has to water. hook up the Another job three caddies to is shadowing, the gator, then which means fill them up by that a student the concession trainer has to stands, and follow around while they a coach with are filling, the a couple of student trainer water bottles, has to fill up ice and towel for buckets to put athletes who in the caddies. run in and out After all of the of the game. caddies are Also, being full, the trainer in the back is has to drive another job, them down to which means the field and that all of the set them in Chloe Johnson (background) and Peyton water bottles on three different Phillips (foreground) prepare at a game. benches are the spots so all of student trainers, the different responsibility to keep full at all times. groups on the field only have to walk a The jobs are assigned by the professional short distance to get a drink. trainers at each game, according to the Then, the trainer has to go back up to experience the student trainer has. New the training room get a huge kit with all trainers have to do time out water, then the supplies that the trainer would need second year trainers have to do shadowing, for any injury. The kit is rolled down the hill to the field, and the trainer watches and three year trainers have to do back. All of the jobs are interchangeable practice in case someone gets hurt while depending on how many student trainers practicing. are working the game, and what the In practice, there are about three to four professional trainers think the student small injuries a day. The regulars, athletes trainer is best at. who have a long term injury or continue to Football is the sport that needs the most get hurt, are always in the training room. trainers because it has the most athletes on In the training room there are all types a team. For every other sport there is only of treatments that a trainer could give an one trainer at a game, and if the trainer athlete. The main treatments are stretching can’t make it the coach takes a supply bag and an exercise routine, stem, game ready, with supplies from the training room. and the compression boot. Anyone interested in being a student Stem is electrotherapy which trainer should see one of the professional involuntarily moves the athlete’s muscles trainers. and gets the blood flowing through the
Wanted: sports reporter/ columnist The Growl would like to have a sports reporter who will cover all the school sports, looking for the unusual, the out-of-the-ordinary story. If you love sports and would like to give reporting and writing a try, contact the editor, Olivia Teach, at 113333@g.bettendorf.k12.ia.us, or stop by the journalism lab (D100) during third block. In addition, this position would allow for an occasional opinion column on the sports page, which could be about any aspect of any sport (want to sing the praises of the Cubs? Cardinals? Bears? Packers? Iowa? Now’s your chance). The editorial board reserves the right to refuse any idea that is not school appropriate. Anonymous stories/columns will not be accepted. No compensation other than the satisfaction of seeing your words in print.
08 The Back Page Sept. 25, 2015
Meet the fall Growl staff Olivia Teach Growl Editor As a senior, I’m the newspaper editor, and I’m more excited than ever for what is to come this year. I’ve become involved in FCCLA, Best Buddies, and publications. I work at Hy-Vee as a cashier. In my free time, I love to go on nature adventures, go running, read, or paint. I love dogs, sunflowers, and the color blue. I’m a bit of a free-spirit, so you’ll see me laughing or off doing my own thing but I’m always open to meeting new people and learning new things.
Brandon Gore Reporter, Photographer I am excited to start my first year in publications. I am a senior involved in NHS, FCCLA, robotics, swimming, cross country, and the co-president of the math club. Outside of school, you can find me flying, scuba diving, crewing hot air balloons, or sailing on the Mississippi River. I work at the Clinton Airport during summers and some weekends. In my little free time, I like to volunteer or learn something new.
Leah Evans Reporter, Photographer A sophomore, I am in French Club, Show Choir, and regular choir. I take dance classes at the Family Museum and am part of their dance company. I’ve danced there since I was three years old. I also volunteer at the Family Museum’s special events, summer camps and as a play pal. I love reading and watching movies in my free time. I am really excited about publications and taking my first AP class this year!
Noah Johnson Bettgrowl Editor, Photographer I’m so excited to be apart of the publications staff this year. I have designed the new Bettgrowl online website In my free time I design websites, take a lot of photos and edit them, I work at Circa 21 in Rock Island (dinner theater). I love musicals and show tunes. I plan in the future to act on Circa 21 stage. Also continue to further my education in technology!
Selena Johnson Reporter, Photographer A junior, I’m an student athlete and athletic trainer, I like taking pictures, listening to music, dancing, and hanging out with my friends. Karly Lent Reporter, Photographer I’m so excited to be a part of publications this year! I am student body president and I play on the golf team as well. I’m a part of NHS and French Honor Society also. In my free time I like to make videos of my life that you can check out on my YouTube channel (KarlyLent). I also write the athlete of the week articles for the Bettendorf News so be sure to pick one up the Bettendorf News every Thursday! When I’m not doing stuff for school, you can see me hanging out with my friends or driving my sisters around town. *sigh* You can also follow me on Instagram/ Twitter: @karlylent
Annette Schneider Yearbook Editor A junior, I am the vice president of FCCLA, the secretary of Best Buddies, and in National Honor Society, RSVP, and soccer. I work for the Bettendorf Park Board and babysit/dogsit. In my free time I enjoy traveling, reading and hanging out with friends and family.
Damaris Stroker Reporter, Photographer Hey!!!!!!!! I’m a junior. I’m involved in NHS, FBLA, Student Council, Best Buddies, publications, and I’m a wrestling manager. You can usually find me at school laughing like a maniac or screaming down the halls. In the very little free time I have I enjoy reading, hanging out with my family, and learning new things. Make sure to follow me on Instagram/Twitter @ damarisstroker!
Homecoming Week Spirit Days Mon. September 28
USA Day
Tues. September 29
Wed. September 30
Class Color Jersey Day Day
Thurs. October 1
Dynamic Duo Day
Fri.
October 2
Spirit Day
Freshman: White Sophomores: Black Juniors: Blue Seniors: Pajamas
Special events during homecoming Sun.
Wed.
Thurs. October 1
October 2
Fri.
Sat.
Float Building 1-4 p.m.
Powderpuff Game 6:30 p.m.
Parade 6:00 p.m.
Pep Assembly 2:40 p.m.
Dance 8:30-11:00 p.m.
September 27
September 30
Varsity Game vs. Iowa City West 7:00 p.m.
October 3