surveyor. 2205 Forest Dr. SE, Cedar Rapids, IA, 52403
Volume 56
Issue 1
the
George Washington High School
the Presidency up for grabs Inside this edition: where candidates stand on issues and why YOU should care
Graphic by Francesca Hidalgo-Wohlleben
what’s inside
on the cover
Election 2012
Learn about the candidates and the important issues surrounding the November 2nd election
17
life&style
New Bo Leading Ladies
Back-to-School Trends Kitty’s Corner
news
14
profiles
a&e
08
Music Breakdown
06
21
sports
editorial
04
Meet the Staff
11 Tasha Roundtree Remembered New Teachers 8th Graders
Carly Herron Freshman Bachelor Foreign Exchange Students Homecoming Royalty
Fall Sports Overview Patrick Reirden
a hello to all
It’s an awful lot like these artificial nails I’m wearing, I think. I sit here typing and every key feels a bit odd. I wasn’t actually sure how they would turn out, but I figured hey, it’s senior homecoming, so why not try something different and potentially cool? At first, I looked down to see the final product and my face cringed.They were, well, different from what I was used to. But after a solid three days, I’ve not only gotten used to them, but I’ve actually become quite found of the style. There have been quite a few changes to the Surveyor this year, in terms of the way the class functions, the members, and most obviously, the format of our publication. So here it is, the first issue of the Surveyor for the 2012-13 school year. I know, I know, it’s different. Maybe you’ll love it, hate it, or simply not care, but either way we want the students and faculty to know that we will continue providing a fair news publication for all of your enjoyment. What I’ve learned, thus far, is that transition times are always the hardest. So at the end of the day, try and judge everything by the long term product and forgive the guinea pigs who went through it all. For any comments, email us surveyorwhs@ gmail.com at or hit up KPhilly in Room 217.
Francesca Hidalgo-Wohlleben Editor-in-Chief
Welcome to what I’ve been calling the politics issue, filled with the most polarized ideals that define our two party system. Yet there is one issue that stays out of the national spotlight, of which I believe needs more attention. This is the first presidential election in which we will feel the impact of the supreme court’s citizens united decision, solidifying the groundwork of political action committees (PACs), who can raise unlimited amounts of money from individuals or corporations. Circumventing traditional campaign finance rules, donations to PACs are creating a huge influx of money that goes directly toward advertisements. If you see any political ad that doesn’t end with “I’m Barack Obama” or “I’m Mitt Romney”, it was probably funded by a PAC. Also, high rollers and corporations can use non-profits to mask their donations and buy elections without ever revealing that they contributed at all. This is a crooked addition to our political process that has an easy, bi-partisan solution. We need both parties to stand up to ban PACS. So if you want anything to get done, become involved with this election- whether it is working at the campaign office, or joining the Young Republicans/Young Democrats. There is an energy that youth bring to the table that is irreplaceable.
Grant Kamin
Managing Editor
03
Editorial Board
greet
Francesca Hidalgo Editor-in-Chief Grant Kamin Managing/Opinions Editor Shanay Gonder A&E Editor Hannah Jonasson Photo Editor Kitty McGurk Life & Style Editor MJ Kamin Profiles Editor
Reid Rossberger Freelance Editor 04
Kiran Misra News Editor
Naomi Spence BusinessManager
Joe Berry Sports Editor
ing [s]
Section Reporters
Eric Loeffelholz Staff Writer Jon Kopec Staff Writer Michelle Zumhof Staff Writer
Nick Corbet Staff Writer Peter Holmes Staff Writer Gavin Jones Staff Writer
Ian Schweiger Staff Writer
Madeline Berg Staff Writer
Amy Wilkie Staff Writer
Meryl Hebets Staff Writer
Grant Kamin, Editor
05
A Warrior Remembered
Photos courtesy of Jeffrey Chambers and Annie Detweiler. Additional interviews by: Ian Schweiger, Madeline Berg, and MJ Kamin
Story by: Kiran Misra News Editor
On and off the basketball courts, Tasha Roundtree was a true team player. Now, students are trying to comprehend her death and celebrate her life. Passionate. Engaging. Caring. Loyal. Genuine. Loud. Intelligent. Those are just a few of the numerous adjectives that coach Frank Howell, teammate Annie Detweiler, ’13, and best friends Jenna Banaszek and Lauren Goodlove, ’12 used to describe Latasha Roundtree, Tasha, as she was known by her friends. Roundtree died from gunshot wounds received Sept. 22 in Cedar Rapids. Tasha was one of those incredibly rare people who transcended all social boundaries to touch everyone’s lives. “It wasn’t just a certain type of person [she was friends with], it was all different ages, all different incomes, and all different backgrounds,” explained Howell. “Everyone was family to Tasha and everyone loved her. All anyone wanted was to see Tasha succeed,” said Sophie Malcolm, ’13 one of Tasha’s teammates. Banszek remembered, “Tasha had 1000 best friends, but was also a best friend to 1000 of us. We need more people like her in the world.” Banaszek recalls Roundtree’s smile, “She would always give you this look with a little grin, then she would burst out laughing. Her laugh was contagious. I can never thank her enough for her friendship.” Callie Stone, ’12 adds, “Among her friends she was often a voice of wisdom, it was because of Tasha that a lot of fights were stopped and a lot of people’s lives were changed because she was a part of it.” In this age where people use YOLO casually as justification for their acts, Tasha was truly someone who never took her life for granted and lived each day like her last, according to Malcolm. “It’s just been really hard [dealing with her passing],” Howell said, “even now, I don’t know if the finality is something I’ve accepted.” “There is no amount of words I could say to express how badly I wish she were still here, but I know she wouldn’t want us to be sad and she’d want us to stay strong for her,” asserted Detweiler. Jeffrey Chambers, ‘13, agreed, “She would want
[everyone] to keep their head held high.” Tasha’s sixth grade teacher, Jessica Johnson, who regarded Tasha as a daughter added,“All her friends and [the] staff have been really supportive, which makes things better. It’s a roller coaster of emotions. It’s hard to think that I’ll never see her again.” A state star basketball player, Tasha was incredible remembered Wash Principal Ralph Plagman, “[She was] the best on the floor. I’ll never forget her.” “She was the heart of the team,” said Malcolm. “Basketball will never be the same without her. On the court her passion inspired all of us. In the locker room she’d always get us all pumped for the games. She brought us together as a family. We’re going to play for her this season. Everything is for her,” Detweiler added. Her funeral was held Saturday, Sept. 29. “It was exactly how she would have wanted it,” said Stone. “There was not a dry eye in the house. It is crazy how many peoples’ lives she was able to impact in only 19 years- there was not nearly enough seating to accommodate all that loved her. Friends came from all over the US to say goodbye. It truly brought the class of 2012 together as well. Though we all went our own ways a few short months ago, everyone’s heart is aching over the loss. Of those who spoke- some were emotional, others funny, but all were [feeling] utter heartbreak. Our middle school basketball coach was crying uncontrollably, showing that even a grown man was so affected by her death after years of not hearing from her. The one thing Tasha always wished for, though, was to see her mom again; now she is reunited with her,” Banaszek remembered. “It was beautifully life changing,” said Detweiler, “it was hard to see her like that because I never saw Tasha without her smile that could light up a room in an instant.” “Tasha was a Cedar Rapids icon and I will always remember her smile, dedication to basketball, and genuineness as a friend,” summarized Chambers. To see students’ tributes to Tasha, go to crwashsurveyor.com
6 NEWS
TEACHER FEATURE Stories by: Madeline Berg and Amy Wilkie Staff Writers
Photos by: Kiran Misra, Ian Schweiger, Madeline Berg, Hannah Jonasson, and Eric Loeffelholz
The freshmen aren’t the only ones new to Washington. Meet the nine new teachers.
Mr. Brune teaches a plethora of classes Band director and AP Music Theory at Wash: Foundations of Science, Pre-AP teacher, Mr. Nagle is new to Wash, but not Biology, Pre-Algebra, and Algebra. He to the music world; he has won an internagraduated from Mt. Mercy and enjoys tional composing award. He received his coaching, playing sports and outdoor BA from UNI and his MA from St. Louis activities. His biggest regret from high University. He enjoys traveling and has school is playing basketball for only two worked on a cruise ship in the Mediteryears, but his true passion during adoles- ranean Sea. Taylor Courtright, ’15, says cence was math. He is looking forward to Nagle, “is very relaxed, interactive, and taking a trip to Italy during spring break. likes to have fun during rehearsals.”
“I enjoy being able to take information Not many people can claim to have that somebody has never seen before and worked with an international revolushowing them how it works and how to tionary leader, but Mr. Burke is one use it,” said Mr. Hill, Washington High of the few that can, as he worked with School’s newest addition to the math de- César Chávez. Mr. Burke is Wash’s secpartment, when asked about his favorite ond transfer from Kennedy. He enjoys part of teaching. Mr. Hill graduated from to fly fish in his spare time and teaches University of Northern Iowa and enjoys Spanish 2 and 4, but in high school, his hunting and fishing in his spare time. favorite class was actually English.
Chemistry teacher, Ms. Brown is no novice when it comes to high school students; she has taught at Kennedy for the past six years. “Students are pretty much the same at both schools,” she comments. “Ms. Finn was my student teacher and I went to high school with Ms. Tinkham,” she shares. Brown spent her summer researching biorenewable chemicals.
Mrs. Farley is teaching show choir and jazz choir this year. She graduated from UNI and enjoys sewing and baking when she is not working on music. When asked what her favorite part about Wash, Farley said, “I really like working with Mr. Westphalen.” Farley got engaged in Ireland in 2010 to her sister’s husband’s brother.
Wash’s newest addition to the P.E. department and the head coach for boys basketball, Mr. Sanchez has many unique traits. He has two middle names, Michael and Fredrick, derived from his father’s name and graduated from Wartburg College. Sanchez spends much of his time outside of Wash with his three kids.
Ms. Martinsen is the teacher of Project Lead the Way, an introduction to engineering design; she enjoys playing piano, downhill skiing, and attending her daughter’s school events. She attended college for 20 years at various colleges including University of North Dakota, University of Missouri Saint Louis, Kirkwood Community College, and most recently Iowa State University.
Mr. Trout leads a double lifeteaching three classes here at Wash and two at Kennedy. He teaches French 1 and 3 got his degree from UNI. His passion for languages has been around since middle school. Watch out though- he was involved in three car accidents in high school.
Kiran Misra, Editor
7 NEWS
GO: NewBo Madeline Berg Staff writer
The Brewed Cafe
Many people are familiar with Brewed Awakenings, a popular coffee house located in downtown Cedar Rapids. However, people may not be as aware of The Brewed Cafe, which opened on July 14th, 2012 and is located on the first floor of CSPS in the New Bohemia District. Although owned by the same family as Brewed Awakenings, the new cafe has a unique atmosphere and menu of its own. Both locations have a focus on locally and organically grown foods as well as pastries and baked goods. However, Brewed Cafe offers a more extensive menu for breakfast and lunch including salads, sandwiches and quiche. The new cafe also offers dinner specials as well as a full bar. Brewed Cafe is an affordable and chic place to socialize, study, or simply eat fresh, locally grown fare.
NewBo Books
NewBo Books opened July 7th, 2012 and is also located on the first floor of the popular concert venue, CSPS. Although the size of the local bookstore is small compared to more popular nation-wide chains, NewBo Books contains every genre imaginable with a children’s, science-fiction, nonfiction, and Iowa section. With the charming and serene atmosphere, NewBo Books is a great spot to peruse local author’s work or study with a small group.
The NewBo City Market The New Bo City Market is envisioned to be similar to the Cedar Rapids Farmers Market, except on steroids. The market looks to attract people from all over Iowa with its unique identity as a grocery store as well as a social gathering locale. With over 20 permanent vendors offering items ranging from meat and pasta to cupcakes and ice cream, the market promises something for everyone. Besides these year round vendors, the market will also have seasonal and outdoor vendors. The local grocery store also plans to have festivals, cooking classes, concerts, and flea markets throughout the year.
Photos by Madeline Berg
08 A&E
For more reviews and pictures of the NewBo area, vist: http://crwashsurveyor.c om
Music. Surveyor's Playlist
Ocean Makes Waves
Loopy for Lupe
Gavin Jones Staff Writer
John Kopec Staff Writer
This Summer, Odd Future’s most artistically gifted R&B singer, Frank Ocean, released his sophomore album, Channel Orange. In 17 tracks, Ocean takes your ears and mind on a journey that you’ll never forget; an emotional roller coaster of sorts. Using almost every musical genre imaginable, Ocean, accompanied by Andre 3000, Tyler The Creator, Earl Sweatshirt and John Mayer, try their shot at musical supremacy. “He’s like a young Sinatra, mixed with usher, mixed with John Legend, mixed with god; he’s absolutely incredible,” said Braxton Leonard ’14, ”If there is anyone out there who hasn’t listened to this album yet, I recommended you do asap.”
Notorious for shunning violence and disorder, Lupe Fiasco launches his most recent album, “Food and Liquor II, The Great American Rap Album”, with the same approach. Different from many other hip-hop artists, Fiasco takes a further step away from mainstream rap with his shocking lyrics built around respect. He reintroduces his opinions in “Food and Liquor II” by sampling the ghettos with his deep, meaningful stories and also flags down sexism in the derogatory slang term for women in his song “Bitch Bad.” Fiasco’s educational lyricism was exactly what was expected in “Food and Liquor II.” He is definitely an emcee that deserves his position as a hip-hop artist.
Graphic by Grant Kamin
Up-n-Coming Artist of the Issue: Haywyre
LupeFiasco
frank_ocean
Shanay Gonder, Editor
09 A&E
“Ladies” and Gentleman...
Photo by Kiran Misra Kiran Misra News Editor Cross dressing, romance, and hilarity so paramount that you will pee your pants, as described by Assistant Director Makayla Kellner ’13. These words detail none other than “Leading Ladies,” the Washington Drama Department’s fall play, which was even more bizarre and exciting than the epithet suggests. “Basically the plot consists of Eli [Wolter, ‘14] and I wearing dresses and talking in ridiculous British accents,” jokes Jackson Ochs ‘13, who played Leo, a down on his luck British actor who along with his comrade Jack, played by Wolter, go out in search of work in an unconventional way. When the two hear of an old lady who is looking to leave her fortune to her two long lost descendants, they jump at the chance to do what they love best- act- and earn tons of money. Unbeknownst to them, the old lady, Florence, played by Emmy Buonadonna ‘15, was actually trying to locate her nieces, two girls, but the boys will stop at nothing to get their hands on the fortune. Dressing up as girls named Maxine and Stephanie, the two actors lead a tricky double life and on the way, fall in love with Florence’s niece, Meg and nurse, Audrey, which adds many complications as the boys fall for the girls and the girls fall for the boys, who they think are girls. 10 A&E
Photo by Kiran Misra
Add in a crazy priest and an unskilled doctor and it’s a mess that even Shakespeare couldn’t have scripted himself out of. The show was a definite success, selling out on the second night. “Our performance usually starts off well, has a dip, then recovers,” commented Cameron Jones ‘13, who played Butch, Audrey’s boyfriend, “Everyone’s all excited for opening night, then we get sloppy and start improvising the second show, then the last show is closing night and everyone wants to give their best performance then.” “Hilarious doesn’t even cover how amusing the play was,” commented Chessa Loushin, ‘13, who went and saw the show on its opening night. “It was laugh out loud, roll on the floor funny. I commend the actors. There were so many guy-on-guy kisses and shenanigans.” Though the show is over, it is anything but forgotten. “I can’t stop doing the British accent,” exclaims Ochs. “I don’t even consciously think about doing it anymore, it just happens.” “I’m kind of glad all the work is over, but, in a way, I’m sad that it’s over,” explains Kassi Kittredge, ‘13 another assistant director for the show. There isn’t too much time for the actors to mourn the end of this production, however. Preparations for “Guys and Dolls” are already well underway.
2012 Election Candidate Frontrunners
who are they?
Graphic by Francesca Hidalgo-Wohlleben
and what do they stand for?
Francesca Hidalgo, Editor-in-Chief
11 FEATURE
name: Barack Obama
the
President and Democratic nominee, Barack Hussein Obama II, was born in Honolulu, Hawaii. After attending Columbia University, he received his law degree from Harvard Law School. He then worked as a civil rights attorney in Chicago and taught constitutional law at the Universtiy of Chicago until 2004. He served as the Illinois senate and represented the thirteenth district in the years 1997 to 2004. After, he was eleceted as a Senator from Illinios to the United States Congress from 2005 to 2008, when he was elected as Commander in Chief. Him and wife Michelle Obama have two kids, Malia and Natasha.
issues ---> Economy: Repeal Bush tax cuts for households earning more than $250,000. Stimulus spending and tax cuts to grow the economy (short term). Cut spending and raise taxes on wealthy to reduce deficit (long term). ---> Healthcare: Enacted his healthcare plan, Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, on March 23, 2012. This plan attempts to lower the cost of healthcare and increaese the number of individuals protected by making everyone buy healthcare from their employers, or purchase individually. ---> Military Intervention: Publicly opposed wars and intervention but has recently expanded Afghan conflict into Pakistan. ---> Environment: Supports a mandatory cap-and-trade system to reduce carbon emissions. Delayed decision on northern leg of Keystone XL pipeline due to environmental concerns ---> Abortion: Supports the Roe v. Wade decision; prochoice. ---> Gay Rights: Supports same-sex marriage; pushed Congress to repeal Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell.
12 FEATURES
candidates name: Mitt Romney
Willard Mitt Romney, the Republican nomination for the presidential election, was the Governor of Massachusetts from 2003-2007. Romney was raised in Michigan and attended Brigham Young University, followed by Harvard University to get a Masters in business and law. He then went into business for Bain and Company, rising his way through the ranks to eventually become the founder of a new investment company, Bain Capital. He is valued to have over $250 million. He lives with his wife Ann, and his five sons, Tagg, Matt, Josh, Ben, and Craig.
issues ---> Economy: Make Bush tax cuts permanent. Lower corporate tax rate across the board to 25%. Cut taxes and regulations to encourage business. Wants to cut government spending. ---> Healthcare: Wants to repeal the healthcare law. Proposes encouraging individuals to purchase their own health insurance rather than via employers. ---> Military Intervention: Wants to increase military spending and believes President has right to do what is needed to promote the country’s interest. ---> Environment: Opposes cap and trade legislation. Supports Keystone XL pipeline. Exporting carbon emissions to China hurts US and planet. $20 billion package for energy research & new car technology. ---> Abortion: Now opposes the Roe v. Wade decision; prolife. ---> Gay Rights: Opposes same-sex marriage; supports Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell.
contributions from Amy Wilkie and Reid Rossberger
Francesca Hidalgo, Editor-in-Chief
13 FEATURE
A Day in the Life of:
King Jeffrey Chambers
Queen Shanay Gonder
Eric Loeffelholz Staff Writer 5:30 - Wake up. 7:00 - Spanish, where he does his best to speak Spanish in the early morning. 8:00 - AP Lit “I love that class, Doc is crazy,” said Chambers. 8:50 - Free period, usually basketball in the gym. 12:00 - Lunch at Panch, Milios, or any place with ice cream. 12:50 - Economics where he jokes around with CJ Cooper, ’13. 1:50 - AP Bio. 3:00 - Volunteers at Boys and Girl’s Club. 10:30 - 12:00 - Bedtime.
5:00 - Alarm. 5:45 - Wake up. 6:30 - Early bird Weightlifting. 8:00 - APES “I’m always getting distracted by Graham - I mean Gravy,” said Gonder. 9:00 - French, “Je ne comprend pas Français,” said Gonder. 10:00 - 3 hour lunch break taken cruising down 1st Ave with J. Cole, French Montana, and The Weeknd blaring. 12:50 - AP Lit. 1:50 - KPhilly time in Surveyor. 3:00 - Volleyball practice. 11:45 - Bedtime.
Photo provided by Shanay Gonder
Amiable Aussie searches for his Sheila Gavin Jones Staff Writer
Are there any ladies looking for a 5’10, 140 pounded (98% muscle), made in Australia stud with a 2 second forty yard dash? If so, look no further. Jabe Gonder, ’16, was born in Perth, Australia. Jabe is class act family man who says his sister is his best friend. To pass time Jabe enjoys playing basketball and golf, or a combination of both known as “golfball”. His favorite class at Washington High School is Ceramics, simply because AP Human is way too mainstream to be his favorite. When asked about the ladies, Jabe said, “I like a girl who can keep conversation going, has a great personality, slightly talkative, and at least 5 feet [tall], but I’m not one to discriminate.” His ideal date would be a classy dinner at Noodles & Company to mess around with the Coke machine. He would then finish the day off the all Australian way with a private viewing of Finding Nemo with Miley Cyrus before her current haircut. If you’re interested in this month’s Freshman Bachelor you can catch him at the tee box practicing his swing or in the gym shooting nothing but net.
14 PROFILES
Photo Illustration by Hannah Jonasson
Freshman Favorites
Favorite Food: Noodles Favorite Movie: Finding Nemo Favorite Superpower: Teleportation
Favorite Superhero: Frozone Favorite Continent: Australia Favorite Class: Ceramics
Carly Herron: Music for Meryl Hebets Staff Writer She lives, breathes and probably dreams music. Carly Herron, ’14, first discovered her love for music as a kindergarten student and has been taking piano and singing lessons ever since. As a seventh grader, she became interested in the guitar, and with much practice taught herself how to play. Singing and playing instruments are not her only activities. Chances are you’ve seen her perform here at Washington High School and around the community. Herron is involved in Madrigals, Slice of Jazz, and the varsity show choir, Momentum. Her many activities are no easy commitment. Herron spends one hour each day at school practicing for show choir, two hours after school for Slice of Jazz, and an additional three hours a week practicing guitar or piano on her own time. “Sometimes I’ll get out of class to go play piano,” said Herron. For her the hard work is worth it. Progress and improvement are what she finds most enjoyable about music. Herron’s advancement is clear too. “She gets better and better everyday and I don’t think she will stop improving,” said Rina Moore, ’14, a long time friend of Herron’s. Herron has participated in the theater productions of “Chicago”, “Wizard of Oz”, and will be in “Guys and Dolls” at Washington High School alone, not to mention her roles at Theater Cedar Rapids. Just this past summer Herron played Penny Pingleton in the TCR production “Hairspray”. She tried out for the play after suggestion from her voice teacher, and says it was her favorite performance to be a part of so far. Herron holds one stage moment that was particularly embarrassing to her. “One time I went on stage without pants!” she said, “We were wearing robes, and our costumes were underneath. At one point we would all take off our robes and when I took mine off I looked down and I wasn’t wearing any pants! I had to run off stage and put mine on before my solo, I almost didn’t make it in time.” The incident occurred at the Celebration show choir performance when she was a sophomore. As long as she remembers her pants, Herron has
Thought
found her numerous stage roles very fun, although her interests are more focused towards writing and composing music rather than acting. She hopes to pursue a career as a music therapist and study music psychology after high school. Whatever she chooses to do in her future, so far Herron’s talent and dedication in music has gained her numerous roles and much success.
Photo Illustrations by Hannah Jonasson
MJ Kamin, Editor
15 PROFILES
Meet: Exchange Students at Wash
Meet Marco Marco, ’13, a 16 year old from the country of Tanzania. He lives with his host Jim Meyer, but back home he lives in Zanzibar, a town of about 1 million people off the coast of Tanzania. There have been a number of experiences that Marco has enjoyed so far, such as trying American food like pizza and making new friends. As for the best part of Wash, he said, “I like that you can choose classes and have a lot of options; also [there are] so many people.” The most surprising part of Wash Marco described as “The girls. In my country girls are very different and not involved in boys.” The classes in Zanzibar are much stricter, divided by sex, and school is from 6 a.m. - 6 p.m. Outside of school Marco’s favorite activities are watching TV or movies and going out with friends. He plays soccer the professional team he admires most is Liverpool. When asked if there was anything he’d like the students of Wash to know, he simply shrugged and replied “I’m friendly!”
Marco Marco
Michelle Zumhof Staff Writer
Favorite Music: Hip-Hop Favorite Food: Rice and Beans Favorite Subject: Math Favorite Sport: Soccer
Oscar Tinga Ngombo
Favorite Music: Hip Hop Favorite Food: Chicken Sandwich Favorite Subjects: Chemistry, Biology, Physics Favorite Sports: Basketball, Soccer 16 PROFILES
Madeline Berg Staff Writer “Trying new things,” said Oscar Tinga Ngombo, a 15 year old foreign exchange student, when asked about his favorite aspect of life in America. Ngombo arrived from Kenya on August 7, 2012, and will be studying through August, 2013. Ngombo is a senior at Washington High School and is staying with Caleb Woods, ’16, and his family. Ngombo said he is enjoying his stay in America thus far for many reasons. He claims to enjoy every food he has tried, “especially the pizza and chicken sandwich.” He also says that, here in America, he can do many activities during the day, while in Kenya it was always “study, study, study,” This is a positive change in how he can spend his time. There are also many aspects of his life back in Kenya that he misses. “I miss my younger brother - he is my favorite brother, my favorite food pilau (a rice dish mixed with spices and meat) and my friends,” said Ngombo. When asked how much he is able to talk to his parents back home, Ngombo said, “I haven’t talked to them since I’ve come to America; I’m avoiding things like homesickness.” Photo Illustrations by Hannah Jonasson
Kitty’s Corner “I’ll take your sticky situation and make it all purrrrrrrrfect.”
Dear Kitty, So my boyfriend just broke up with me. I thought everything was going perfectly and then out of the blue he just dumped me and said “it just wasn’t working out.” Like what does that even mean? I’m super bummed out and finding it so difficult to get into the homecoming mood now. I just wish I knew what I did. Sincerely, Brokenhearted
Dear Kitty, I am completely overwhelmed. I just started my freshman year here and everything is so different! I love so many things like football games and assemblies but I’m not used to this much homework and tests! Do you have any suggestions for getting adjusted? Sincerely, Overwhelmed Freshman
Dear Overwhelmed Freshman, Take a breath and relax. I know what you’re going through. The hallways are always crowded, teachers have higher expectations, and you’re still trying to figure out where it is that you belong in this huge school. Want to hear my best advice? USE YOUR AGENDA. That little thing will become your best friend as the homework load continues to increase. You’ll also learn that teachers here love to help you. If you’re confused on a subject, communicate with your teachers and come in to get help. This is hard coming from a senior, but don’t procrastinate! As time goes on you will get a hang of this competitive school but trust me, it will only help you in the future.
Dear Brokenhearted, It’s okay! Who needs a boyfriend anyway? They re stinky, they use up your data, and they never pay for dinner like they did back in the day. If you want my advice, forget about the poor sucker. Unless you really had feelings for this guy and thought he was worth all of the trouble he put you through, MOVE ON. I’m sure you keep telling yourself “if I knew the reasoning, I could move on,” but trust me honey, half of the time you don’t want to know the reasoning. So grab some ice cream, get your girlfriend, and watch The Notebook on replay for a week. After that, don’t think about him once.
Tip of the month: Feeling stressed about school, relationships, and work? Drink some green tea. Not only will it relieve headaches and give you that caffeine you need to get through your day but it is also very good for your health!
Yours truly, Kitty Kitty McGurk, Editor
17 LIFE & STYLE
Kitty McGurk Life&Style Editor So, here we are. School is starting to become reality, fall is around the corner, and football season has begun... And while everyone is concerned with the stresses of schoolwork and outside activities, I’m more focused on what everyone is wearing. I’ve seen a variety of new looks walking down the halls of Washington this year, from new to old. We have our new styles such as the high and low skirt, trendy boots, and pastel jeans while we have our bring-back looks with jean jackets, DIY jean shorts, and cut off tank tops. I’ve observed lace left and right and I’ve seen see-through crop tops as much as I’ve seen textbooks. I think it’s safe to say that with all of the hot looks of spring and summer, I can’t wait to see what the fall has in store for us.
Photos by Kitty McGurk
18 LIFE & STYLE
GET INVOLVED!
Voting runs from September 27 to November 6
For more information, or to volunteer, contact robhogg@earthlink.net or visit www.robhogg.org. Paid for by Citizens for Rob Hogg
Dear Students: Although I am not on the ballot this year, I did want to encourage you to exercise your right to vote if you will be 18 on or before Election Day, November 6, 2012. If you are not 18 by Election Day, you can still participate by volunteering for candidates or one of the political parties. To contact the Linn County Democrats, call 651-6138 or stop by the campaign office at 2857 Mt. Vernon Road SE in Cedar Rapids. By getting involved in the political process, you can help increase funding for education (including higher education); improve our economy through job training, infrastructure investments, renewable energy, advanced manufacturing, computer technology, and research and development; promote public safety and public health; defend civil rights; and meet our obligations for the environment and future generations. Whether you can vote or not, I hope you get involved! – State Senator Rob Hogg
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Reirden survives a close call; Sunfire not so lucky Peter Holmes Staff Writer
It was a scary moment and a good lesson for all. On Tuesday, Sept. 18, Warrior men’s cross country runner Patrick Reirden, ’15, was returning to school on his own at the end of a 30-minute run in Bever Park when he attempted to cross Cottage Grove Avenue from Eastern Boulevard. Tired from his workout and blinded by the afternoon autumn sun, Reirden ran directly into the path of an oncoming vehicle. “I was trying to beat one car to get to the track, but didn’t see the other,” said Reirden as he recalls the incident. As it happens, Reirden flew up into the windshield of the Pontiac Sunfire driven by a student teacher at Erskine Elementary, smashing it and stopping the car before flipping up over the vehicle and coming down on the rear window, which he also demolished. Somehow, despite everything, Reirden was not severely injured and was even released from the hospital within several hours. He received seven staples in his head, suffered a mild concussion, badly bruised arms, and had gravel lodged in his legs— nothing too severe for a wrestler trying to get in shape for the upcoming season. “Luckily, the woman driving wasn’t speeding and luckily the car was small,” said varsity cross
country coach, Willis Harte. “Luckily, Pat is not a small boy.” Colby Bjornsen, ’13, a member of the Warrior women’s cross country team, was one of several eyewitnesses and assumed the worst when she first saw the actions unfold after her run. “He laid there motionless with his blood all over the concrete,” said Bjornsen. “I screamed for help as Naomi Spence, ’13, and I started bawling. I honestly thought he was dead.” Luckily for Reirden, several people responded quickly to the scene of the accident. Tony Lombardi was first on the scene, followed by a woman passing by on the sidewalk. Bjornsen described the driver as being in complete shock in the aftermath of hitting Reirden. According to Harte, he has repeatedly told his team to be cautious at all times. “I’ve told the guys to always stay on the left side of the road, assume cars don’t see you, keep on the sidewalk, and look both ways before you cross a street,” he said. Harte noted that no new safety regulations or change in the routine will be enacted because of this incident. “I talked to the parents at Fall Sports Night and have yelled at the guys before,”Harte said. “This is a lesson for everyone. Patrick is fortunate to be able to run again and we look forward to his rejoining the team soon.”
“I was trying to beat one car to get to the track, but didn’t see the other.” -Patrick Reirden, ’15
Joe Berry, Editor
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Warrior fall athletics approach the post season; teams have high hopes. Nicolas Corbett Staff Writer
As fall is just beginning, fall sports at Washington High School are at the heart of their season. Playoffs are drawing near for the football team, and the Warriors need two more wins for a bid at sub-state. “We have the talent, and we’re getting close to putting it all together,” said Brad Lock, ’13. To make the playoffs, a team must win three MVC games, and win in their substate game. On Oct. 5, Wash will have its next chance to add a win and take one step closer to the state playoffs. The Warriors will be competing against the Jefferson J-Hawks, who have a record of 1-4. The rest of the season looks manageable for the Warriors. They will face Prairie (3-2) and Dubuque Wahlert (1-4). As of Oct. 1, the Warriors are 1-5, leaving them in need of two more MVC wins to advance to sub-state. Men’s and women’s cross country are just past the midpoint of their season and are approaching their peak competitive season. The number one men’s runner for the Warriors, Etienne Nzoyisaba, ’13, is ranked tenth in the state. On the women’s side Shannon Gorman, ’14, is ranked eighth in the state, respectively. Last year, the men’s cross country team placed fourth at state and is hoping to improve. Both the men’s and the women will be running on Oct. 18 at the State Qualifying
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Meet, in hopes of competing in the Cross Country State Championships on Oct. 27. The top three teams and the top ten individuals at the State Qualifying Meet qualify for State. The Warriors are also competing hard on the court. The volleyball team is nearing the postseason with hopes of improving from last year’s sub-state loss. According to the varsity volleyball assistant coach, Amy Faulkner, the team is competing well. “We have a tough conference this year so our record might not show it yet, but its how you finish, not how you start,” said Faulkner. As of Sept. 30, the Warriors’ record is 14-9. The first sub-state match is Oct. 22. Warrior men’s golf team, led by Dominic Rodriguez, ’14, Matt Strand, ’13, and Zach Gothard, ’13, has completed their season. They’re a young team and put up better numbers this year than they have during any of the last four seasons. Their district meet was Oct. 1, and that was the end of their season. The Warrior women’s swimming and diving team is approaching the end of their season, and have high hopes for state. Led by Jackie Hughes, ’14, the Warriors will be looking to make a splash at State Championship on Nov. 2 and Nov. 3. Hughes specializes in the 500 freestyle, and the 200 Individual Medley. The road to state goes through Jefferson High School; the Warriors will be competing in the regional meet at Jeff on Oct. 25 for diving and Oct. 27 for swimming.
Warrior Nation Warrior Warrior Nation Nation Fall at Washington High School means sports. Whether it is on the field, on the court, on the course or in the stands; Warriors make their presence known.
Photo courtesy of Jennifer Lawson Rockwell Jonathan Rockwell, ’13, runs past a pond during a Cross Country meet in Cedar Falls.
Photo courtesy of Chris Reese Dani Franklin, ’14, prepares to spike a ball during a Varsity volleyball game.
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Photo by Hannah Jonasson The Warrior Marching Band marches during halftime at the Kennedy game.
Photo by Hannah Jonasson The Warriors take the field to face Kennedy, led by Noah Dostal and Mitch Bredeson, both ’13.
Joe Berry, Editor
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Page by Grant Kamin
Photo by Hannah Jonasson