December 21, 2010 | Volume 23, Issue 4

Districts Realigned, p. 5

Budget cuts revive familiar Marching Band tunes, p. 4

Districts Realigned, p. 5 They’re harmless,right?pp. 6-7

2010 grads compete at collegiate level; Fessler

signs letter to UNI

“Espero que el amor de Jesus te acompane junto con esta regalito.” The love of Jesus comes with this gift to you. Mission Walk Inter-national will continue to spread this message across the boarder as the founder delivers pres-ents for her twentieth year. Mission Walk International (Intl.) is a non-profit organization founded in Pella in 1994. Community member Jim Ter Louw and his wife Helen (Ter Louw) Neer founded the orga-nization while serving on vacation in Reynosa, Mexico, in February 1989. “Jim and I felt guilty going on a vacation, so we researched mission work we could take part in while in Mexico. We found that a col-lege in northwest Iowa had a group going to Reynosa that volunteered at a children’s home. After we served with the children we knew we wanted to do more. We had learned that the children often didn’t receive Christmas presents and de- cided we wanted to h e l p , ” said Neer. T h e following year, the c o u p l e began to collect presents on a small scale, beginning

with only 25 children. They invited other peo-ple to become involved, expanding their giving capacity. “Today, we are able to collect around 1,000 presents for the children. My husband Wes and I have been down to visit several times and have decided it was our calling to help her [Neer]. We just can’t stop. We enjoy the people, and they always miss us. They can’t wait for us to return,” said Mission Walk Intl. volunteer Connie Van Wyk. Mission Walk Intl. functions three months out of the year. First, the organization travels to Reynosa at the beginning of October. For eight to-ten days, the volunteers take pictures of children ranging from infants to 12-year-olds. Pictures are also taken of expecting mothers, ensuring that every child receives a gift. “We visit around 20 facilities each year. Some of the facilities are children homes, similar to an orphanage, where chil-dren often have one or both parents that just can’t provide for them. The parents choose to leave their children at these homes knowing they will receive a better life. We also visit community churches, trying to promote the needs of the very poor in Reynosa,” said Mission Walk Intl. board member Wes Van Wyk.

The second phase of the

process involves re-turning to Pella and organizing the photos. Photos of the children are placed in an informational sleeve with each child’s photo as the cover. On each photo the name, age, gen-der, wish, and giving site

are displayed. These sleeves are taken to over 20 churches within Pella, Sully, Grinnell, Car-roll, Leighton and Otley areas, and Minnesota and Illinois. At these churches, people are able to select a child and fulfill the child’s holiday wish. “My family usually picks a girl because we don’t have any girls in our family, and well, my mom likes to buy girl gifts. We know there are kids out there that need to have a great Christ-mas, and we enjoy knowing we put a smile on their face,” said freshman Karter Smith. After the donors return their gifts to Mission Walk Intl., the organization will begin to load the presents into their Mission Walk Intl. trailer. On Dec. 26, Mission Walk Intl. volunteers drive to Mission, TX, where they stay at the Melody Land Christian Renewal Center.

“I would encourage people to go because it gives you a sense

of purpose. It also opens your eyes to a new life. Their life

is much simpler than ours. They just live with what they have,” said Mission Walk Intl.

volunteer Beth Van Wyk, a senior. For three weeks, volunteers cross the United

States-Mexican border, some-times twice a day, deliver-

ing collected gifts. The children will often be re-leased from school and wait patiently in line for hours to receive, in some cases, the only gift they will receive for the year.

•See Gifts, p. 2

The best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear. Senior Tricia Wisniewski and her sister freshman Klaire Wisniewski are doing just that. Literally. A Christmastime tradition that started so far back that Tricia can’t even remember the beginning. The Wisniewski’s are bringing joy and happiness to many families who might need a little bit of cheering up during the holiday season.

Ever since Tricia can remember, her family has been doing kind and anonymous deeds for others during the holiday season. The Wisniewski’s and a handful of their friends deliver cookies around the community and even sing carols to bring Christmas cheer.

“My favorite part of the Christmas season is when people in our busy society take the time to slow down and do kind

things for others. Usually at the beginning of the holiday season, my family forms a list of kind things to do to others. One year, we enjoyed certain activities [like the cookie tradition] so much that we decided to do them each year. I love to deliver cookies to people to watch stranger’s faces light up, especially when they realize that you are thinking about them,” said Tricia.

Tricia leads by example. Her charitable actions do not just take place during the holiday season. Selected as the 2011 Tulip Queen, Tricia carries a genuine personality. She is always willing to help others, she even has her own cooking class that teaches younger kids how to make tasty and mess-free treats in the summer.

•See Wisniewski, p. 3

Christmas more than getting for local

“Vrolijk Kerstfeest!” means ‘Merry Christmas’ or ‘joyful Christmas celebration’ in Dutch. In Pella, John De Vries shares this wish through 55,000 sparkling lights. The Dutch light display has been a holiday tradition for the past 18 years, but last year, De Vries announced that, due to health reasons, it would be coming to an end. “We started [the light display] in 1992. In 1991, we went to a Christmas light display in Des Moines and spent some time there. I thought it would be nice having something like that in Pella. I told my wife that rather than talking about it, I was going to do something about it,” said De Vries.

•See Lights, p. 4

He’s Back He’s Back: DeVries display sheds

light on Pella holiday spirit, p. 4

DeVries display returns with neighbors’ help

Novel family traditions spread holiday joy

(left) Helen Neer hands a donated blanket to a Mexican mother on a trip in 2006.

•photo submitted

Deaton ranks nationally in unique sportp. 3

GIVE. The Wisniewski family continues a long held Chritsmas tradition, spread-ing cheer throughout the community in multiple ways. •Photo submitted

Cans became a common sight in the lobby as student council members collected them from students and faculty for the annual Christmas can drive. The can drive started Nov. 29 and went through Dec. 21. Student council set up and participated in the drive for many years. It has become an annual activity for student council. The can drive began the first year that student council advisor,DakRasmussen,startedworkingattheschoolnineyearsago.Bythebeginningoftheschoolyear,afewof the student council members signed up to be on the Christmas can drive committee. Theresponsibilitiesincludedsettingupthetreeinthelobbyanddecoratingit,aswellasorganizingvolunteerstoworkthestandwithinthestudentcouncil. “The community does an incredible amount to support the school and this is one wayfortheschooltohelpthecommunity,”saidRasmussen. The cans collected for the drive will be donated to the food shelf. At the end of it studentcouncilmemberswillorganizeallofthecansandtakethemthere. “Knowing that the food that we donate will help families have a better holiday [is themost rewardingpart],” saidRasmussen, “Planning isprobably thehardestpart.Studentcouncilmembershavebusyschedulesandtheyhavetogivetheirtimetomakethefooddrivesuccessful.” Thecandrivehasbeenasuccessfuleventinpreviousyears,yetitisnotallabouttheamount collected. “Wereallydon’tkeeptrackofnumbers.Somehowthatmightmakethedriveintoacompetitionwhenwereallywantthefocustobeongiving,”saidRasmussen.“Ifwe

don’t collect as many cans aslastyearIknowIdon’twant the students to feel as if they’ve somehow failed.” The can drive is not onlybeneficialtothosere-ceiving the cans, but alsoto students bring them in as well. For the amount of cans donated by a single person,, he or shegets their name entered in a drawing for prizes purchased by the student council. “There are some good prizes as an incentive to get students involved. Every can donated equals one chance to win. So the moreyoudonate,thebet-ter your chances are. It’s a win-win for everybody,”said can drive chairman Jocelyn VanDyke, as shedecorates the tree, left.“It’s a tradition, some-thing we do every year. It’s a classic way to get involved with the com-munity and spread the Christmasspirit.”

•TaylorRennich(tr.pelladium@gmail.com)

Page Editor: Kelsey Van Tasell

Briefly Speaking ...

December 21, 2010

•Sixty-fourdonorsgavetotheNov.23blood drive. A total of 45 products were donatedand23ofthedonorswerefirsttime donors.

•Aone-hourearlyoutisscheduledDec.22.

•Debatehaditssecondregularseasonchampionship,withitsfirstoutrighttournament championship.

•KaylaDa(kd.pelladium@gmail.com)

Alongwitheachgift,MissionWalk Intl. includes twoSpanish tractsencouragingthechildrentoacceptChristianity.Whilethere,volunteersareabletointeractwiththechildren. “One of my favorite parts is after the children have their gifts. Seeing the smiles on everyone’sfaceispriceless,”saidWes. Although the children’s joys have not changed throughout the years, a couplechangeshaveoccurredwithinMissionWalkIntl.andReynosa,Mexico. “AfterJimdiedIdecidedtocontinuegivingtoReynosa.I’vealsorecentlynoticedthatthefacilitieshavebecomemuchcleaner.Thepeoplearetakingprideinwhattheyhaveandensuringitlasts.AthirddrasticchangeisthesocialconditionswithinMexico.Ihavenotpersonallyseenanyfightingasaresultofthedrugwars,buthavewitnessedagreatermilitarypresencewithinthestreets,”saidNeer. Neer speculates that the fear caused by the drug wars is part of the reason few vol-unteers are currently joining her to deliver the gifts. “I’montheoutsidelookingin,andIunderstandthatthepeopleweworkwitharescared.Ifeeltheplaceweareinisverysafe,andIbelieveGodwantsmetodothis.HeknowswhenmytimewillbewhetheritbehereorinMexico.AllIneedtodoishavefaiththatHewillprotectme,”saidNeer. Althoughtherearequestionsofsafety,MissionWalkIntl.isstilldeliveringgiftsthisChristmas season. “I would encourage others to come along because these trips are life changing. It is always good to go to other countries that do not have as much and gain new perspec-tiveonourlives,”saidfirst-timeMissionWalkIntl.volunteerGregNeer.

•JessicaSalpor(js.pelladium@gmail.com)

Gifts (continued from page 1)

Student council spreads holiday cheer with anual can drive

MEASURE!JuniorKimKorvermeasuresoutacupofcheeseforfoodsclass.“IliketheclassbecauseIgettodoworkthatIcanapplytolife,andit’sfun.Plus,Mrs.V.[KathyVanNorden]isawesome,”saidKorver.•PhotobyMarielleGaiser

•PhotobyJessicaSalpor

Students easily learn track record holders, all-state winners in volleyball and football or top scorers in soc-cer, but junior Bridger Deaton has found success that you may not have heard of in a different sport, archery. For eight years now, Deaton has been participat-ing in archery competitions nationwide. He has gained a top-ranking place for himself among the competi-tors. After setting numerous records as a young adult and winning multiple first place titles, Deaton is ranked third in the nation as a young adult and has earned a spot on the 2010 and 2011 U.S. shooting team. Deaton’s interest began around 10 years ago when his father began showing him the basics of archery.

At seven years old, Dea-ton and his dad were in an archery shop while a

competition was taking place, and he decided to join the competition.

“When I first start-ed competing, I

didn’t really care much about winning or losing. Later, I met a couple of

guys in who actually were in the archery business and I real-

ized I could take this sport a lot further than I thought I could,” said Deaton. He then received a little more train-ing, but proudly claims himself as “75% self-taught.” Unlike his father, a basic shooter, Bridger shoots with a compound bow, which uses pulleys to produce more force, making shots more accurate. He shoots in ei-ther the cadet group, 14-17 year olds, when competing in the NAA, the National Archery Association, or the young adult group, 15-17 year olds, when competing in the NFAA, the National Field Archery Association. Last march, Deaton walked away from the 2010 in-door nationals with a win, and later in May received another first place finish at the NFAA outdoor na-tionals. He holds all three state records for young adults, and is dangerously close to being a national and worldwide record holder. Also, as a member of the United States shooting team, he is guaranteed at least one international competition next summer. “I love the competitive spirit of it [archery]. It’s fun knowing you’re the only one, and there is no one else to blame,” said Deaton. “It’s com-pletely individual. All the stakes are on you.”His goal- to win the 2011 NFAA indoor three star, which requires winning all three events. The indoor competition will be in Las Vegas, the indoor national in Louisville, Kentucky and the third will be the outdoor in Yankton,

South Dako-ta. The events will be held February 11-13, March 26-27 and April 16-17 respectively. D e a t o n hopes that his archery career won’t stop after high school. He plans to make a career out of it, and hopefully make a living doing something he loves. Ideally, he would like to continue as a competitor, but if not, he is also interested in working in archery retail, as an engi-neer in a bow factory or as spokesperson for the sport. Bridger not only recommends the sport to any stu-dent interested, but also offers some words of advice. “The first year will be the worst. You’re gonna have to work and learn before entering tourna-ments. It’s a hard sport, but it’s important to re-member to have fun. It is a sport, not a job.” •Tiffany Carter (tc.pelladium@gmail.com)

Page Editor: Maddy Scholten December 21, 2010

Peers help Visser overcome obstacles It’s not uncommon for students to groan at the mention of having a reading assignment, but most don’t know how good they have it. For se-nior Gerrit Visser, read-ing large amounts of text has become difficult, due to a now removed tumor having pushed on his op-tic nerve. The tumor was removed his sophomore year when it was found to be cancerous. It was also causing headaches and double vision. The lazy eye, though negative in terms of eyesight, was the initial reason the tumor was even discovered. “The lazy eye is the reason I’m still alive. At church one day, I noticed I was closing one eye. I real-ized I was seeing double. If we didn’t figure this out when we did, I might not be alive,” said Visser. This has proven problem-

atic, especially in his anat-omy class.“I have to read and re-read. I have double vision when reading, and espe-cially when I’m stressed or

tired,” said Visser. When science teacher Cathy Hones learned of his obstacle, she started look-ing for a solution. “We were trying to find a way to get a book on tape, but our book is too old. I decided to have anatomy students read the book and make podcasts using iMovie and pictures,” said

Hones. Many students have al-ready offered to help, in both his anatomy and gov-ernment classes. “It’s both Gerrit and I

learning anatomy; it’s a double win,” said senior Kirsten Maakestad, An eye surgery to help Visser’s double vision was originally planned for No-vember, but since it would conflict with his construc-tion trades class, it has been postponed until June.

“Post-surgery, I might have double vision for up to two weeks, but after that my eyes should adjust back to normal. If I was to wait a few more years to have it, it would be harder to correct,” said Visser. Despite experiencing much more misfortune than an average teenager, Visser has remained strong the past few years. But what keeps him going? “I think wanting to graduate with my class has been big. Also, I’ve always been a guy that pushes until he can’t go any more and then go further. I’ve ended up reading Tuesdays with Maury [which] has tons of ways to deal with stuff. You need to feel the emotion, notice that it’s there, and then let it pass,” said Visser.

• Eric Moore (em.pelladium@gmail.com

Wisniewski (continued from page 1)

•Graphic by Eric Moore

“My sister is always doing nice things for people throughout the year. A couple of years ago I woke up in the morning and my sister and her friends were making cookies in the kitchen, my friend and I decided to help and we ended up going with them to deliver cookies,” said Klaire. The two girls draw their influence from par-ents Dave and Mary Wisniewski. Since they were young, they have tried to instill a charitable spirit among their two daughters. They have been en-couraged to go along on charitable excursions such as Meals on Wheels or giving gifts to a giv-ing tree at their church for the underprivileged. “I think that is what it [Christmas] is all about, You are lucky to have what you have. A home, and a fam-ily; it’s really about giving to other people. One thing we try to tell our girls is that Santa isn’t really just about the gifts, it is about the representation of giv-ing to people no matter who they are. Your hope is that they’re always thinking of other people, not just necessarily just giving presents to other people, even things like everyone is wanted or needed, and to con-nect with people, to not leave anyone out,” said Mary Family unity makes this opperation possible. “I think we all are just a unique family right here, the four of us, we set up or own little tradi-tions, it’s neat when the girls ask, ‘Oh, how come we haven’t done this yet?’ We love that traditions have started without us even knowing it,” said Mary.

•Madeline Meyer (mm.pelldium@gmail.com)

Deaton finds success in alternative sport

•BULLSEYE. Deaton’s final end shot at the In-door Nationals in March of 2010. Photo submitted.

•Photo submitted.

Page Editor: Jocelyn Van Dyke December 21, 2010

Boat’s Home Furnishings620 Franklin St. Pella, IA 50219628-2040

Brom Auto Service & Sales, Inc.819 Broadway St.Pella, IA 50219628-1700

Community 1st Credit Union500 Main St.Pella, IA 50219628-2022

While many will be spending Christmas break in the bitter cold of Iowa, the marching band will be traveling to the warm, sunshine state to perform in the 2010 Outback Bowl. The Marching Dutch will leave Pella Dec. 27 and spend five days in Florida. Despite the price tag of $1,200, 170 band members will be making the trip. The band will be traveling via charter bus on the 22 hour trip. Their first destination is Orlando, where they will be exploring and enjoying Universal Studios. “I think it will be fun to actually go to a huge amusement park with your friends, rather than a family vacation. I’m excited to get away from the cold Iowa weather, too,” said junior Lucas Boyd. After Orlando, the band will head to Tampa for the remainder of the trip. The band will be participating in the Outback Bowl Parade Dec. 31. in the early evening. For the parade, the band will be playing the song “We’re an American Band.” After the parade, the band will attend an awards ceremony at Busch Gardens in Tampa and ring in the New Year. “I hope that our high input into the parade will be shown in the outcome. If we hold to the level our band has obtained, then our hopes of being recognized as musicians as well as performers will be fulfilled,” said senior Kirsten Maakestad. On Jan. 1, the Marching Dutch will play during halftime of the Outback Bowl, where Penn State and Florida

will play. The band will perform an 80‘s medley, including well-known songs such as “Thriller” and “Celebration.” The band applied and was selected for this opportunity. “We sent in video of our band performing in a parade formation. They select bands from the applications based on certain criteria. There are high standards; they look for bands that represent their state well,” said Director Jason Pentico. Between 15 to 20 other high school bands will participate, but this is the first time the Marching Dutch have been to this particular bowl. Past bowls include the Citrus Bowl, Rose Bowl and Fiesta Bowl. Members have been busy making preparations for the event. “Everyone understands their part in the performance and giving 100 percent is stressed by band directors. The focus is on knowing what we are doing and perfecting it,” said junior Shenstone Huang. After performing during halftime, the band will start their trek home. Estimated arrival time is 4 p.m. Jan. 2. Anticipation for the trip is building. “I am very excited for the trip. I’m sure it’s going to be a blast. It sort of makes me nervous that we’re going to be playing in front of so many people, but I think we will step up to the challenge and it will be a good experience,” said sophomore Maddie Gates.

•Maddy Scholten (maddys.pelladium@gmail.com)

HELPINGOTHERSREACH THEIR DREAMS IS WHAT WE ENJOY MOST.

Reaching new heights doesn’t always come easily. But ifdreams were easy, they wouldn’t really qualify as dreams.

That’s why all of us at Edward Jones support everyonewho dares to dream. Because whether the dream is largeor small, when we all work together, the world around uscan only get better.

www.edwardjones.com Member SIPC

MK

D-3

409-A

_BW

MAY

2007

Scott Van TasellFinancial Advisor.

809 Washington StreetPella, IA 50219641‐628‐1552

Marching Dutch ventureto Florida’s Outback Bowl

That’s where it all began. From the inception of this idea, De Vries began constructing a Dutch village and added new pieces each year. Much of the village resembles the town of Friesland where De Vries grew up. The windmill is a replica of the one that stood behind his childhood home and the church is similar to the one he attended in Holland. “Everything is one-third the size in real life. I drew it all up on graph paper, color- coded it and began building,” said De Vries. After the framework had been constructed, it was time for the main attraction: the lights. “I went to Walmart and bought 5,000 lights for $50, and that’s how we got started,” said De Vries. Without realizing it, De Vries had created an epicenter for enjoyment. When

he first put the lights up in 1992, he hadn’t thought much about doing so the next year. But he was encouraged by comments from the public, and sure enough, the light display grew. With the growth of De Vries’ Dutch village, popularity of the display increased as well. And so, it was with great disappointment that last year, the public learned that the light display would be coming to a close. However, one family was willing to step up and help out to ensure that this wouldn’t happen. “We drive past [the De Vries’] house every day. When we saw the light display wasn’t going to happen anymore, we talked about it in the car briefly. Then, I was on my way home and just stopped by to ask John about it. He went through all the things the lights involved and asked if we would even come out in sub-zero

temperatures, and I said I would. Every time I passed, I would stop by and talk to him about it,” said 17-year-old Pete Bailey, a neighbor to the De Vries’. With the help of Pete, his 14-year-old brother Josh, and their mother, Stephanie, De Vries was able to once again put on a light display for the city of Pella and anyone else who came to see. “[The main reason for helping out is] knowing how much we enjoyed it and wanting other people to be able to enjoy the lights and music played as well,” said Stephanie. De Vries has similar thoughts on the motivation behind his light display.

“The main reason we started is because we liked the one in Des Moines, and we thought it’d be nice to have one in Pella. I enjoy building structures and making things. The reason we continue to do it and add to the display is to bring enjoyment to the people in the community and anyone who wants to come. It’s a gift from us to the community,” said De Vries.

•Jocelyn Van Dyke (jvd.pelladium@gmail.com)

Lights ( cont inued f rom page 1 )

•Photo Courtesy of John De Vries•Watch video of the light show at pelladium.com

T he next level. Only the cream of the crop make it there. College athletics. With the athletic department achievements ranging from 30 state

appearances, eight semifinalists, six runner-ups, three individual champions and one team champion, the successful program cultivates many athletes capable of competing in collegiate programs. Over 15 athletes from the last three graduating classes are now enrolled at Division I, Division II, Division III and community colleges, playing six different sports. Matt Meyers, 2010 graduate, a part of four state semifinalists and two runners up, said he prefers high school over college. “I prefer high school sports over college sports by a long shot. In high school sports, there is a different energy then in college sports. In high school, just about every fan knows each player by name. In college, that is different. Also, in high school sports you play with kids that you have known for your entire life. Coming to college as a freshman, you try to bond as quickly as possible with your new teammates and just hope the season goes well,” said Meyers. Meyers just completed his first season at Central College where he is playing football. Meyers was a part of the state runner-up basketball team last March with classmate Nathan Buchheit. Buchheit, who ran on the state championship cross country team last fall, is attending Northern Iowa Area Community College on a basketball scholarship.

“The best thing about sports is playing with people that you’ve been around a majority of your life. You just can’t do better then that,” said Buchheit. Current Iowa State University runner Richie Bales, also a 2010 graduate, found the college experience preferable to the one high school delivered. “College sports are much more professional, with specific coaches for specific things, including numerous trainers to help make sure you’re taken care of.” said Bales. The reason many athletes play college sports is to challenge themselves against opponents with more skill. For Bales, this was an endearing characteristic. “In high school, you only got to compete against someone who was extremely good once in a while. When you hit the college level it isn’t just the occasional competition you race someone good, you go up against great runners every day in practice,” he said. Another perk that comes with the college territory is the free merchandise the student accumulates during time there. “Getting free stuff is a pretty good deal.” said Bales. Amanda Dunkin, 2010 graduate, competes in Divison III cross country at Central Collegee. She agrees with Bales, preferring college athletics over high school. “For me, running is way better in college. You work out harder and longer and get a better feeling of satisfaction. In high school it was a lot more fun with the team bonding. The cross country team in high school was

unlike any team I had ever been a part of,” said Dunkin All the collegiate athletes agree about one thing: collegiate athletics is challenging. The work is tougher, and the competition is more intense. Seniors are now having to make the choice on whether to continue their sports in college or if they are done with scholastic athletics all together. One in particular, senior Brooke Fessler plans to attend the University of Northern Iowa next year on a full ride volleyball scholarship. Fessler is excited to get a chance to continue to play the sport she loves. “Collegiate volleyball is on an entirely different level, and it’s where I can be pushed to become a better and more well-rounded player. The coaches at UNI are truly amazing people, and I can’t wait to train with them. I know they will influence my life in many ways. I love to compete, and I will definitely have the opportunity to do so at UNI,” said Fessler. Even as she heads to college she will always remember her high school teammates. “It has been awesome playing with my closest friends for four years, and it will surely be hard to leave them. Also, the support of Pella as a town has been amazing. I will miss putting on my jersey and representing the green and white Lady Dutch. I truly cherish my high school memories, and they will always be a part of me and a part of who I become,” said Fessler.

•Nick Dorman (nd.pelladium@gmail.com)

Page Editor: Madeline Meyer December 21, 2010

Recker Dental Care2114 Washington St.Pella, IA 50219628-1604

MidWestOne Bank700 Main St. Suite 100Pella, IA 50219628-4356

Red Rock ChiropracticCenter, P.C.1400 Fifield Rd.Pella, IA 50219628-9991

Pella Pets Veterinary Clinic411 Oskaloosa St.Pella, IA 50219620-8880

Midtown Tire Company109 E. Oskaloosa St.Pella, IA 50219641-628-1072

Pella Nail Salon604 Liberty St. Suite 129Pella, IA 50219628-1104

Leighton State Bank900 Washington St., Box 6Pella, IA 50219628-1566

Precision Pulley, Inc.300 S.E. 14th St.Pella, IA 50219628-3115

Royal Amsterdam Hotel705 East First St.Pella, IA 50219620-8400

Fareway Stores Inc.2010 Washington St.Pella, IA 50219628-9995

Genesis Healthy Livingwww.GenesisHealthyLiving.com628-1031

Holiday Inn Express2508 Bos Landen DrivePella, IA 50219628-4853

De Jong Door Service1307 Columbus St.Pella, IA 50219628-8736

Digital Solutions Inc.809 West 8th St.Pella, IA 50219628-0088

DeVries Electric2121 Old Highway 163Pella, IA 50219628-1416

Garden Chapel Funeral Home1301 Main St.Pella, IA 50219628-2430

Kathy Kooyman, Realtor, Home Realty641-416-0182

Pella OrthodonticsDr. Kim Wass715 Main St.Pella, IA 50219628-9195

DANCING QUEENS. Senior Forté members Elizabeth “Schatzie” Shrout, Hay-ley Morgan, Leah Engelbrecht, Mandy DeMeulenaere, Jessica Van Wyk and Olivia Warner pose with their coach Melissa Wimmer and their three first place trophies earned at the state drill team championships Dec. 3. For the first time in 10 years, Forté brought home a triple crown “State is always an awesome experience, but this year was even more exciting because there are six seniors, we were really hap-py with our perfermances. Our goal was to triple crown, and when we found out we had triple crowned, we were all jumping up and down and crying. I couldn’t think of a better group of girls to accomplish this with,” said DeMeulenaere.•Photo courtesy of Olivia Warner

Student-athletes transition to next level

Forté triple crowns2010 Grads moveto collegiate level

A.J. Arrendell- University of Dubuque, WrestlingRichie Bales- Iowa State University, TrackBrett Bogaard-US Naval Academy, Track

Nathan Buchheit- NIACC, BasketballMatt Dowie- Northwestern College, Soccer

Amanda Dunkin- Central College, TrackBlaine Forsythe- Augustana Colleege, Football

Morgan Hiemstra- Central College, TrackCourtney Kelderman- Dordt College, Basketball

Austin King- Northwestern College, TrackChris Meyers- Northwestern College, Cross Country

Matt Meyers- Central College, FootballWhitney Pavlat- Central College, Softball

Hannah Schwab- Trinity Christian College,Cross Country

Mackenzie Van Zante- William Penn University,Bowling

Zach Whittenburg- Northwestern University,Cross Country

Jordan Youngman-Wayne State College, Football

Richie Bales,Iowa State

•Photo Submitted

Matt Meyers,Central College

•Photo courtesy Central College

Amanda Dunkin,Central College

•Photo courtesy Central College

Courtney Kelderman,Dordt College

•Photo courtesy Dordt College

Page Editors: Megan Card, Jessica SalporDecember 21, 2010

Nearly 30 million people tan indoors in the United States every year, 2.3 million of which are teens. 71% of all tanning salon patrons are young Caucasian women ranging from ages 16 to 29. Tanning,bothartificiallyin salons as well as naturally, is a dangerous price to pay for beauty. It causes DNA damage to the skin. Often, the skin reaches a point where it can’t heal from the tanning. It can also lead to skin cancers, sun burns, premature aging, brown spots, and immune suppression of the skin and eye damages, like cataracts and ocular melanoma. More than 3,000 cases are admitted to the emergency room each year due to severe sunburns from to indoor tanning. “The only safe tan is one that comes from self tanning creams or lotions, because they only dye the skin,” said local dermatologist Dr. Jennifer Palmer.

Ultraviolet radiation is a proven human carcinogen, according to the United States Department of Health and Human Services. Each year, more new cases of skin cancer are detected than there are of cancers of the breast, prostate, lung and colon combined. “Tanning beds are the same, if not worse, than sunbathing, because tanning beds tend to be more intense than sunlight. Tanning beds either emit ultraviolet A, ultraviolet B or a combination of both light sources, while the sun emits lower doses of ultraviolet lights,” said Palmer. Those who use tanning beds are two-and-a-half times more likely to develop squamous cell carcinoma and one-and-a-half times more likely to develop basal cell carcinoma. “I think tanning is dumb because it’s a health risk, a waste of time and a waste of money,” said senior

Austan Schut. First exposure to tanning beds in youth increases the possible melanoma risk by 75 percent. Also, frequent tanners using new high-pressure sunlamps may receive as much as 12 times the annual ultraviolet A dose compared to the dose that is received from the sun. “Most studies show the younger a person tans, the worse the affects are. A lot of skin cancers are caused by an accumulative dose of the ultraviolet rays over a period of time,” said Dr. Palmer. Nationally, concerns have risen because of the risks of skin cancer caused by tanning beds. Currently, 31 states in the United States regulate indoor tanning use by minors. “I tan because it feels really good, especially when it’s cold outside. I use both lotions and tanning beds, but I prefer to use the beds because the

actual tan lasts longer and lotions can be blotchy or orange colored,” said senior Caitlan Murphy. A few p o s i t i v e s m a y come from tanning. “ O n e positive is that some people have seasonal d e p r e s s i o n , so they can tan occasionally tan to feel better. Also, some people say that they should tan because they receive vitamin D from the sun or tanning beds. Though it is much safer and healthier to get it through a daily vitamin or a healthy diet,” said Palmer.

•KelseyVanTasell(kvt.pelladium@gmail.

com)

UV rays increases chances of cancer-prone days “And if there’s still time I’m going to chop 100 coconuts. 60 seconds on theclock.Butfirst,Ineedtotakeahitof my Salvia,” said Tosh.0 host, Daniel Tosh, during the Extreme Salvia Challenge. From Comedy Central to the United States, this form of hallucinogen has become increasingly popular throughout the world during the past few years. The controversy that surrounds the drug continues to be an issue today. What is Salvia and should it be legal? The Salvia plant was originally grown in the mountainous regions of Mexico by the Mazateca tribe. Traditionally used as a healing agent for animals, it was first introducedin the late 1930’s to a group of anthropologists searching for new cures and remedies in Mexico. While there, they discovered many other plants, such as the black nightshade and the morning glory, that were being used by the Mazateca. It was rediscovered in the early 1990s due to the popular psychedelic culture. Many different breeds of Salvia plants are available all over the world, including garden shops in North America. However, Salvia Divinorum is the most popular. Known as a ‘strong psychedelic,’Salvia Divinorum smoke takes about 20 seconds to begin its effects on the body. The main effects last anywhere from

five to 15minutes.During this time,the user experiences a ‘psychedelic’feeling. These experiences often include altered thought patterns, changes in body temperature, dreamlike states, senses of fear, panic and many others. Salvia is considered a controlled substance in Delaware, Louisiana, Missouri, New Jersey, New York and Tennessee. Salvia’s legality in other states has not been fully established. However, consumption of the drug is not approved by the FDA. Nine of the world’s countries, including Germany andSouthKorea,alsoallowuseofthedrug. “I think because of the onset of its popularity, clearly something needs to be done. Like any other drug, its effects are either good or bad. Like what we talk about in class, it is about the purpose of the drug. Medical use is the key there,” said health teacher Bob Fessler. On Jan. 18, 2007, a bill was proposed to add Salvia Divinorum and Salivinorin A (the main psychoactive ingredient in Salvia), to the list of schedule one controlled substances. The possession, delivery or manufacturing of the drug would be considered a class “C” felony. This could lead to a sentence ofuptotenyearsinprisonorafineof$1000.00 to $10,000.00. The bill has yet to be passed, so it is legal to purchase Salvia in the state of Iowa. It is often sold over the Internet, at tobacco

and head shops, and stores that sell herb remedies. It is sold in at least three shops in Iowa and is helpful in treating pain. Referred to as “legal marijuana”, its popularity has risen dramatically in the Midwest throughout the past few years. The similar effects between the two is another reason it is being targeted by the FDA. “If it’s a drug like marijuana then no, it should not be legal because they’re close to the same thing and marijuana isn’t legal,” said Charma VanderWert. Many believe that Salvia is a harmless drug, but that is not always the case. Though there have been no known Salvia deaths, there have been cases of suicide with Salvia users. A car accident on a bridge, caused by a dazed driver, was also linked to the drug. DrivingundertheinfluenceofSalvia

can cause complete loss of control, putting the lives of the individual and others at risk.

•HaleySytsma(hs.pelladium@gmail.com)

Energy drinks aren’t a death sentence. One Red Bull doesn’t mean that a person’s days are numbered. But the increased popularity and consumption

of alcoholic energy drinks among teenagers and young adults should not be a subject lightly brushed aside. Brands like Four Loko, Tilt and Joose are supplying easily accessible

and dangerous beverages that have already led to dozens of hospitalizations.

It’s not like energy drinks don’t already carry enough risks. Insomnia, anxiety and cardiac arrhythmias are just a few of the possible side effects, and that’s withouttheinfluenceofalcohol.According to an article by Chad J. Reissig, Eric. Strain and Roland R.Griffiths,regulationofenergydrinks is unbelievably lax. Caffeine content ranges from 50 mg to 505 mg per can, while the lack of regulations has resulted in aggressive marketing, primarily focused on young adults. With the risk of caffeine overdose becoming more apparent, the prospect of adding alcohol to

the mixture seems like a lethal cocktail.

“Caffeine is known for its stimulant, or “wake-up” effect; that’s what people want from it. You drink that cup of coffee because you want to stay awake. Caffeine gets absorbed and carried around by the bloodstream until it hits its peak about an hour later. There is nothing particularly bad about caffeine, in moderation that is. Energy drinks, on the other hand, make me wary, they contain almost four times as much caffeine than a usual soda does. Plus, they contain a number of other chemicals that can have adverse effects all mixed together,” said Dr. Michael Cavanagh, a physician at West Medical Family Healthcare in Denver.

While regular energy drinks can already increase unwarranted effects, the combination of alcohol and caffeine can be particularly dangerous. Caffeine reduces a person’s sense of being intoxicated and provides them with the false illusion that they can continue to drink. The

caffeine masks the effects of the alcohol, so a person could physically be drunk, but they would just feel the effects of the caffeine.

“Mixing a depressant with a stimulant should seem like a bad idea to anyone with common sense. Alcohol causes drowsiness, but by mixing it with caffeine, the body is now awake and can continue to drink. This would immensely increase the chance of someone drinking enough alcohol to induce death,” said Cavanagh.

Apart from the natural reaction a body would have to so much alcohol, like being inebriated or alcohol poisoning, the amount of caffeine in an energy drink increases the risk of someone to participate in high-risk or violent activities, likedrivingundertheinfluence.With over 37,000 fatalities due to drunk driving in 2008, the easily accessible alcoholic drinks would do nothing to decrease this statistic.

“I don’t let my kids drink energy drinks, because they are forcing their bodies to exhibit

certain unnatural responses that they otherwise wouldn’t have. If your body tells you you’re tired, you should sleep. I have never really went with the idea of trying to force your body to do something when it has the ability to regulate itself,” said Cavanagh.

The public isn’t just standing by while the production of alcoholic energy drinks is still being done. Numerous colleges across the nation have banned the drinks from their campus, and the FDA has warned makers of the drinks that they may seize the products if they don’t remove the alcohol. Four Loko makers have already complied, and are taking out the alcohol, but there are still three other major manufacturers who have yettofileastatementinregardsto the FDA’s request. While the future of alcoholic drinks is not certain, its current influence onyoung adults has been seen with an increase of public inebriation, drunk driving and alcohol-related hospitalization.

•MeganCard(mcpelladium@gmail.com)

Salvia stimulates ‘psychedelic’ experimentation

•PhotoIllustrationbyMarielleGaiser

•IllustrationbyJillianSagers

•GraphicbyMicahZeimetz(mz.pelladium@gmail.com)

Caffeine masks tell-tale signs of inebriation

With the need for energy in our (work all day, party all night) society, energy drinks have wedged their way into our lives. Energy drinks are intended for exactly what you are thinking,GIVEYOUENERGY! Its nowonder that theysucceed in this task when the drink manufacturers cram almost 80mg of caffeine into that little can. That is a very menacing number when you think of a can of pop, which only holds 12mg of caffeine.

Pros•Youreceiveaboostofenergytogetyouthroughthat

afternoon drag•Thewonderfulvarietiesofflavorsthatalltheenergydrinks

come in•Extremelyfilling

•Allthecoolfamouspeoplearedrinkingthem

Cons•Theabsurdpriceswilldefinitelyputadentinyourwallet

•Theirtastinessisloadedwithsugar•Maydevelopanaddictiontodrinkingthem

•ContainmysteriousingredientsnotmonitoredbytheFDA

•ShaunSokol(ss.pelladium@gmail.com)

Executive Editors: Megan Card, Nathan Kooker, Eric Moore, Kelsey Van TasellPage Editors/Reporters: Tiffany Carter, Michael Ge, Benji McElroy, Madeline Meyer, Taylor Rennich, Jessica Salpor, Maddy Scholten, Jocelyn Van DykeVisuals: Marielle Gaiser, Eric Moore, Jillian Sagers, Mitch Shepperd, Micah ZeimetzReporters: Nick Dorman, Mark Dykstra, Adam Gromotka, Evan Jones, Sarah Muller, Shaun Sokol, Haley Sytsma, Whittney ReinierAdviser: Ann Visser

The Pelladium is a monthly tabloid produced by the high school journalism department to serve as an informative, educational and entertaining communications media and to provide an open forum to students and readers. •Letters to the Editors are welcome and encouraged. These letters must be signed and should, in no way, be libelous, irresponsible or obscene. Letters must have verified facts and should deal with issues. The Pelladium reserves the right to edit grammatical errors, libelous content or length due to the space limitations. Letters may be brought to Room 201 or sent to Pella Community High School, Box 486, Pella, IA 50219. •The Pelladium will strive to deliver information in a fair and truthful manner. The Pelladium will function in accord with all applicable laws, both in regard to the rights and restrictions of journalism. •The views expressed in this publication are those of the individual writer and not necessarily those of the Pella Community High School Administration or the Pella Community Schools Board of Education. The Pelladium will make retractions in the event of errors made in the content of printed stories. Retractions will be printed in the issue immediately following the issue containing the errors. •The Pelladium is a member of the Iowa High School Press Association.

Pelladium Staff

Staff Editorial

Page Editor: Benji McElroy

Editorial Cartoon

December 21, 2010

Editorial Cartoon

From childhood, Americans are raised on values of honesty and integrity. They’re taught that our founding fathers, like George Washington and Thomas Jefferson, acted as intelligent and noble leaders. They’re taught to be honest like Abraham Lincoln. Recently, an embarrassment brought upon by the site WikiLeaks shatters those values. The site, which aims to place government policies in a truthful light, was responsible for posting over a quarter of a million cables describing communications between the United States government and 274 of its embassies around the world. Starting in 1966, the documents provide insight into U.S. political operations that were held as confidential until now. This sensitive information creates a new definition of disappointment in describing United States foreign relations. Between the lies and generally poor conduct, the U.S. has been stabbing both its allies and enemies in the back. Some of the cables go as far as degrading the leaders of UN nations. Although the information released by the site does damage the credibility of the United States, what’s worse is the way our leaders are handling the situation. Among the finger pointing, a very familiar sense of “blame the other guy” has found a way to once again work itself into politics. Politicians blame Julian Assange, the director of WikiLeaks, of endangering the lives of all Americans. In a press conference, U.S. secretary of State Hillary Clinton calls the release of information an “attack on the international community.” The person allegedly responsible for releasing the information, Private Bradley Manning, has been incarcerated in a maximum security army prison in Virginia for treason charges. Politicians seem to have forgotten the important foundations. The documents, assumable legitimate due to the government panic, show a darker side to U.S. foreign relations. Despite the consequences and uncomfortable feelings they may bring however, exists a sense of hope. By posting these previously confidential documents for the public to see, Assange has flexed the bicep that is freedom of speech like never before. U.S. citizens have a right to know what their government is up to. Tax payers fund such operations, and correspondingly, should be entitled to the information WikiLeaks shares. Comparing what our country “stands for” and what it actually acts upon is somewhat of a balancing act. It’s difficult to make a fair judgment of whether or not Assange or Manning should be punished. That the way our country has been practicing international relations has been questionable. In all fairness to Assange, the first amendment does give him the right to release information about tax-supported government procedures, even if they are considered confidential. Assange, who has been answering questions from an undisclosed location, has reported many accounts of death threats. It’s ironic that despite the fact that people are breaking the law, the person who was exercising a right upheld by our country is at blame. If politicians were doing their job properly, they would have nothing to hide in the first place. These events may help to straighten out political operations. Most likely though, as has been suggested by world news sources, the United States will begin tightening its grip on what information makes it to the general public. It’s disappointing that despite the values and freedoms we learn at a young age, it is the politicians who will still act childishly, and who will not admit their mistakes.

•Adam Gromotka (apg.pelladium@gmail.com)

Eric Moore (em.pelladium@gmail.com)

Yeah, let’s get blazed, baked, stoned and puff the magic dragon. The slang associated with drugs is now thrown around so loosely, that it seems like the recreational uses significantly outweigh legitimate medical reasons. The casual approach to how the current generation treats drugs has been heavily influenced by the media, which has created the false pretense that drugs are alright. Now, the stigma once associated with drug use has been pushed aside to allow drugs to have a prominent influence in society, where these attitudes play a crucial part in impacting people’s stances on certain drugs. We all take times out of our lives to do the things we love the most. These activities help us enjoy our lives, hopefully to the point where we get high. Not the high you get from drugs, but from the pure emotional ecstasy of feeling good. It’s not anything against the drug culture and community, but there is a reality check that needs to occur for users to introspect and reflect on why they are using the drug in the first place. The ulterior motive is sometimes hidden in the users themselves. Being able to realize that everyone is awesome for being themselves is something that we need to help everyone see. This individuality is what makes us human, which also makes us prone to mistakes. Drugs are not necessarily a mistake, the biggest mistake is not realizing you are using them as a coping mechanism. Using drugs eventually boils down to your personal choice. Whether you do it or not, you shouldn’t be judged solely on that fact. Living your life and enjoying every second of it is also a personal choice. While using drugs may provide solace and joy to some people, it is best to generate this without the aid of them. Go and find the happy medium that can help be a driving force throughout a lifetime. True happiness is the most coveted drug and can only be found within yourself.

(The Pelladium staff voted in favor 18-1 of this editorial)

WikiLeaks challenges politiciansto define freedoms

Happiness is the ultimate drug

Alternative News

Assange has flexed the bicep that is

freedom of speech like never before

Page Editor: Eric Moore December 21, 2010

How do you believe the school should manage make up days this year?

Reading Is DangerousNathan Kooker (nk.pelladium@gmail.com)

Brink of SagacityEric Moore (em.pelladium@gmail.com)

As the snow begins to fall, students begin to anticipate snow days. Last years school year seemed to never end, instead, it went on until the first week of June. To many missed days meant less summer. Schools all around Iowa made up snow days by going to school earlier, staying later, or condensing prescheduled breaks. The effect of managing there snow days; they got out of school at a much earlier date then Pella Community schools. • Whittney Reinier (wr.pelladium@gmail.com)

“I think that we should stay later or come earlier instead of making up the days in the summer.”

- Junior Brett Kingery

“I think we should stay longer during the regular school days. It wouldn’t be too big of a change, and it would be better than having extra days.” -Sophomore Daniel Langenfeld

“I think that we should stay extra after school, a half hour or an hour, whatever we need to.”

-Freshman Natalia Espinosa

“It should just stay the same because if it changes then seniors end up having to come to school, and I don’t want to. No change at all.”

-Senior Ryan Van Norden

This Thanksgiving, I finally caved. Succumbing to the pressure of my peers and the media, I joined in with the masses in the most religious event of the winter season: shopping. More specifically, the frenzied period of time deemed “Black Friday.” Yes, as is characteristic during this time of year, the Spirit of Buying was everywhere. Good Deals Towards Men were found, though Peace In Stores was not, and the night was far from silent. The point of all these parodied Christmas phrases? Christmas, in America, is much more about commercialism than the original meaning of the holiday. This is not breaking news of course, but it’s something that seems to have become more prevalent over the years. I should first point out that I’m no one to talk; I was as excited about the deals as anyone. Waking at 3:30 A.M., I and millions of others braved the crowds, the cold, and the lines just to save some money. Maneuvering the arrary of shoppers and accessing what you want can feel like a game of Operation; everyone is touchy, all looking after their own tails. Like a post-apocolyptic movie except instead of looting, people are buying things. I’m not sure if it was lack of sleep or the radiation from the florescent lights, but somehow I started to think: how did such odd human activity become normal? According to b l a c k f r i d a y. c o m , the term was first used in a negative connotation in Philadelphia in the 1960’s, as the shopping surge would cause traffic build-up, rioting and looting. A few years later the term’s meaning referred to businesses turning a profit, or moving

from “red” to “black”. Christmas and the holiday season as a whole have become more than just holy days. They’re a vital part of the functioning of our society, socially and economically. Though time away from work to be with family is usually relaxing and enjoyable, things like traveling, buying gifts, figuring out meals and working with everyone’s schedules get in the way. You think mom is stressed balancing her family during the school year? Just ask her how she feels during the holiday season. It’s no secret that all the gifts we buy have become something businesses depend on each year. It has become an assumed period of time for gargantuan amounts of spending to occur, and when it doesn’t go well, everyone hears about it. Suddenly, between all the driving, the buying, the food, the decorations and the work or school to make up, no one has time to remember what the season is about. This is not a column of great originality or revelation. It’s more a personal realization that the things all those Christmas cartoons and movies are yapping about

is true; tradition and family are really what make the time special. Yes, they all have a similar message, but that’s probably because they’re correct. So, in spite of wanting to avoid sounding cliché, I’m going to say step back a bit from all the hustle and bustle this season, lock away the iPods, the

phones, the laptops and the pagers (by the way if you still carry a pager, get over yourself, Mr. ’97) and just chill by the fire with your family, perhaps recollecting a few funny stories. You’ll get much more out of your time off.

Remember the long-awaited moment when, as Tickle-Me-Elmo slid across the barcode scanner and the register chirped a din of closure, you exhaled a final ounce of present-shopping angst and sucked in your first breath of holiday serenity? I regret to tell you, but that sigh of relief was premature. Now, with Christmas day only hours away, you’re about to find a stray wish list buried in the depths of your purse or sock drawer. What are you to do? All little Johnny wants is a meager pair of “Hollister jeans - lots of holes, dried paint.” Every little boy deserves some. But, there’s just too little time to budget another trip to Des Moines, and expedited shipping rates are downright outrageous. Your options are less than limited; it’s time to pull out the wild card – or should I say, gift card. They’re failsafe. You rescue yourself from familial excommunication, and young Johnny makes bank with Wal-Mart purchasing power valued at $15. Luckily, the superstore surely carries a comparable line of trousers; he’ll just have to pick them up himself. Just like that, you’ve averted what could have been a Christmas catastrophe. Having presented poor Johnny with a second-rate present may be a little embarrassing, but you aren’t alone. The same happens to thousands of Americans each holiday season; everyone’s prone to hit a dead end for at least one name on their extensive gift registries. I am constantly one of these recipients. My family has followed the same routine for years. As presents are divvied up amongst the youth, and my sister accumulates a cache of readily-shakable boxes, I am left with a stack of envelopes, doubtless of what’s inside. My Christmases have become so ritual in recent years that I am

quite confident in predicting my reap this December 25. Here’s the run-down: My paternal gift exchange should produce a lucrative $25 worth of Wal-Mart credit and an

Applebee’s card of similar value. While I will eventually exhaust the former on haphazard purchases, the latter will be consumed in its entirety by a single overpriced dinner. In round two, my loving maternal relatives will grant me $30 at Target,

Grandma summing it up with at least $40 in certificates for the year’s fashion label of choice. Let me be the first to admit it; a stack of gift cards doesn’t quite amount to the greatest of holiday joys. Even for an optimist, they are impersonal and unfulfilling. The concept of the gift card, a default present which amounts to nothing more than the passing of money, shows just how materialistic modern Christmas has become. It’s as if some sort of quota is governing the way we perceive generosity; we figure precisely how much it will cost to buy someone’s contentment, regardless of whether this price is manifested in a thoughtful present or a plastic substitute. Let’s abandon this preconception that the gift card is our only last-resort holiday option. When we’ve run out of ideas, or time, or patience for those uncaring cashiers, we must realize that there are gifting alternatives still within reach. Write a letter telling someone just how significant they are. Bake a platter of seasonal indulgences. Donate to a charity. Each of these is loaded with sentiment much more value than the price on any spending card, and therefore, constitutes a more rewarding present to both give and get. More rewarding, that is, than the callous passing of plastic.

ACTION REACTION •Illustrations by Eric Moore (em.pelladium@gmail.com)

Merry Stressmas!!

Speed. It’s what computers are all about these days. Most people want a computer that is closer in speed to Usain Bolt than a chubby seventh grader. In terms of school, students need quick computers to complete the hurricane of digital homework being assigned this year.

Students have three main options when it comes to completing homework: the media center, room 118 and laptops. So the mission is to find which option is the fastest. To do that the computer will be timed on how fast it takes to log in and open Safari, also other variables that go along with the certain computer will be thrown in for good measure.

Even though the media center has constricting new rules, it is the “go-to” option for most students. The media center took 25 seconds to log in, load to

the desktop and open Safari. A variable students should watch out for is mingling with friends. The media center is a prime place for every student, and once one sits down with their pals their productivity plummets. Aside from distractions and needing a pass to go there, the media center delivers reliable and fast computers. With laptops one does not need to worry about sitting next to a friend, because they can sit anywhere! However, these fancy devices have a very slow log in and start up speed. It is probably the wireless connection, but when it’s crunch time, students need a computer that is going to perform 100 percent, and the laptops just aren’t ready for that kind of pressure. If people don’t mind a small chance of vandalism to your computer, room 118 is for them. It has limited access, but this will help students avoid talkative distractions. Its speed was 20 seconds, five seconds faster than the media center’s. Though one computer is damaged, the rest are fresh and ready for use. If you build up the guts to ask a teacher to let you in this computer haven. In review: The media center has the second fastest speed, but chatty friends will halt your productivity. The laptops give you the ability to avoid your friends, but are by far the slowest. Room 118 is the fastest of the three and keeps you hidden from the majority of students, making this the jewel of the school’s computer options. •Evan Jones (ej.pelladium@gmail.com)

“Fargo” is a movie hard to describe in just one sitting. Its comedic value is lost on some, priceless to others, and for those out there like me, just plain confusing. There were times where I wasn’t sure whether I should be offended, shocked or laughing my head off. To be honest, it was confusing moments like those that kept me watching.

Set throughout Minnesota, it features Jerry Lundegaard (William H. Macy), a Minneapolis resident in need of quick money. He sets up a plot to have his wife kidnapped, and pocket the ransom fee paid by his father. The plot ends up going horribly wrong, with his accomplices killing a number of people and the police chief of Brainerd (Frances McDormand) catching on. The plot could be potentially interesting, but it’s ridiculousness makes it unimportant in the scheme of things.

“Fargo”, written and directed by the Coen brothers, is one of the most striking examples of dark comedy I have ever seen in my life. From a gratuitous use of sex and smoking to the infamous “woodchipper scene,” “Fargo” stops at nothing for a shocking laugh. Although I did find many parts of the movie funny, especially scenes that would end with a ridiculous joke and then cut to black, I was mostly horrified by what I saw. What really made “Fargo” go from potentially okay to awkwardly mediocre though, was the depiction of Minnesota. Although Coen brothers may claim to have been perfect with their accuracy, there were some glaring problems. First, the movie’s title is a terrible misnomer. Literally one scene takes place in Fargo, and to say that any city in western North Dakota is anything like Minnesota is a complete fallacy. The only relationship is their windy winters, which “Fargo” did portray with stunning accuracy. The constant hills and lakes, though, made it evident that we were nowhere near Fargo at all. I was pleasantly surprised by the accuracy of the accents done by the main characters, but I often saw other actors fall short. While I heard a number of classic northern accents, I couldn’t help but hear the slips of actors who had never been anywhere near rural Minnesota or North Dakota. Worst of all was hearing an actress use a New Jersey accent to represent a Minneapolis resident. Any native northerner can tell you people from Minnesota, and especially Minneapolis, sound nothing like the guidos of the “Jersey Shore.” In the end, “Fargo” just didn’t have the appeal and accuracy I was seeking. If they had named it Brainerd and not had so much death and darkness, I may have been a little

less disappointed. I’d recommend watching this movie only if you’re tired of happy comedies and wish to brood in laughter alone. Even then, take “Fargo” with a grain of salt.

•Jake Anderson (ja.pelladium@gmail.com)

Page Editor: Tiffany Carter

Vander Ploeg Bakery711 Franklin St.Pella, IA 50219628-2293

Dr. Gregory Vannucci, D.D.S, P.C.2601 Washington St.Pella, IA 50219628-2011

Work Systems Rehab & Fitness308 SE 9th St.Pella, IA 50219621-0230

The cold air is starting to hit, which means your time will consist of shoveling snow or playing in it. Either way, when it comes to keeping you warm, what beverage will you choose? Hot chocolate has been one of my favorite winter treats, so I went searching for the best cocoa in town, keeping in mind price, flavor and how fast it took to make it. Smokey Row’s was first, it was good for keeping you warm but it wasn’t too appealing to the taste buds. It burnt my tongue on the first sip and when it finally cooled, it tasted as though it had more water than chocolate. For a cup that cost $2.60, it wasn’t worth it. I headed off to Klein Huis Van Koffie next to

find a very decent cup of cocoa for $2.40. It had a different spin of hot chocolate. The cocoa was not as sweet but still tasted delectable. Made in less than a minute, the drink was one of my favorites.

The last stop was Kum n’ Go. It was a self serve, which was perfect, because I could make it as fast as I wanted to, not having to wait for people to make it for me. They had whipped cream and marshmallows, which allowed me to put on as much as you liked. When I finally made my way to the cash register, I was surprised again, the price of a small hot chocolate was $1.27, which was

the best price all day. Finally, I got to taste the drink, and it was incredible. It was full of chocolate and just the right temperature. When that snow comes piling down and you happen to be about the town, stop by Kum n’ Go for a great price and a delicious treat.

• Sarah Muller (sm.pelladium@gmail.com)

Use. School computers

At a glance...

What? A dark comedy released by the Coen

brothers

Where? A city in eastern

North Dakota

Drink. Kum n’ Go cocoa

At a glance...

What? A quest for the best school computers

Why?Find the perfect option

for completing homework at school

TK Concrete1608 Fifield Rd. Pella, IA 50219628-4590

Stravers True Value/ Radio Shack/ U.S. Cellular818 Main St.Pella, IA 50219628-3330

TD&T Financial Group, P.C., CPA’s606 Franklin St.Pella, IA 50219628-9411

Sports Page Grill1111 W. 16th St.Pella, IA 50219620-1149

Sports Page Sporting Goods1562 Washington St.Pella, IA 50219628-4999

Subway714 Liberty St.412 E. Oskaloosa St.Pella, IA 50219628-8923 628-3054

Taco John’s 911 West 16th St.Pella, IA 50219628-8818

Tri-County Vet650 Hwy T-14Pella, IA 50219628-4040

TRIUMPH Martial Arts308 SE 9th St.PO Box 41Pella, IA 50219866-648-8480Ulrich Ford-Lincoln-Mercury1130 West 16th St.Pella, IA 50219628-2184Van Dyk-Duven Fu-neral Home615 West 1st. St.Pella, IA 50219628-2540

Vermeer Sales and Service661 Hwy. T-14Pella, IA 50219628-2000

Silver Lining733 Franklin St.Pella, IA 50219628-3650

See the NEW website design:

pelladium.com

Always a New Issue

Compare. Fargo

At a glance...What? A search for the

best cocoa in town

Why? Get fastest, cheapest and most

delicious hot chocolate in town

•Graphic by Jillian Sagers

•Graphic by Marielle Gaiser

Dec. 21, 2010

With the holiday season looming, it’s important to focus on its impact on the school. Decorated lockers, the tree in the lobby and blissfully easy classes mark the bringing of good cheer. What doesn’t bring good cheer, though, is receiving a poor gift from your Secret Santa. For instance, nothing makes the trombone Secret Santa more awkward than a drawn up card and a half eaten box of donuts from your instrument case.

Adam: I really love Secret Santa. Nothing warms my heart more than a cheap gift in a place you wouldn’t normally get gifts. It’s like a pouch of Gatorade Prime for the season of giving. However, a bad gift can be like chugging chocolate milk before the big game.

Jake: With cheap high schoolers like us, bad gifts are an inevitability. I can barely afford to spend money on myself this time of year, let alone the six Secret Santas I get dragged into.

A: Really, though, slapping together a card with a few different

colored pens and taping a piece of gum onto it doesn’t classify as a Secret Santa gift. One can be both cheap AND thoughtful.

J: I wholeheartedly agree. If you’re an artist, you could try your hand at woodworking. Or, if you’re not really into the whole “making stuff with your hands” thing, an unconventional gift can often be the best of all.

A: Offer to shovel the recipient’s driveway. Better yet, offer to do it in a Santa Claus outfit. It’s a free gift, it’ll save your recipient a lot of time, and it’ll show you care. Plus, with holiday meals around the corner, it’ll help you stay trim before you gorge yourself.

J: This season, it’s the thought that counts. Although that cliché may not seem comforting when you receive a sculpture of what may or may not be you, made out of what you hope is clay, remember that it’s better than no gifts at all.

• Jake Anderson (ja.pelladium@gmail.com)• Adam Gromotka (apg.pelladium@gmail.com)

Fish & Sheps • Mitch Shepperd

Page Editor: Michael Ge December 21, 2010

High School Hazard • Jillian Sagers

Green Supporters...Applebee’s, 1600 Washington St., 620-8646Bos Landen Golf Club, 2411 Bos Landen Dr., 628-4625Braafhart’s BP Amoco, 834 Washington St., 628-2474Central Cellular, 1530 Washington St., 628-9520Comfort Inn & Suites, 910 West 16th St., 621-1421Dutch Meadows Landscaping, 100 1/2 Vermeer Rd.,628-4450Eyecare Partners, 823 Franklin St., 628-9225Jansen’s Decorating & Kitchens, 614 Franklin St., 628-4247Leighton Processed Meats, 227 Otley St., Leighton, IA, 626-3211Nick’s Greenhouse & Floral Shop, 219 Oskaloosa St., 628-2230Oriental Express, 706 Main Street, 620-1199Pella Implement Company, 655 Hwy. T-14, 628-2131

Pella Implement Company, 655 Hwy. T-14, 628-2131Pella Printing Co., 1190 West 16th St., 628-4941Prudential First of Pella Realty, 601 Franklin St., 628-9840Sadler Sign & Design, 203 SE 16th St., 628-9889Van Maanen, Sietstra and Meyer, P.C., 705 Main St., 628-3737Van Maanen Seed & Chemical, 2073 Eaton Ave., Leighton, IA, 626-3471Windmill Cafe, 709 Franklin St.,621-1800Windmill Mall Antiques & Collectibles, 637 Fanklin Street, 628-1095

Down Through the Smokestack with Lots of Toys...

That rapscallion of a website, Wikileaks, is all up in the United States’ business. It’s releasing some extra-secrety-secrets which, more than likely, will lead to our collective demise in the next few days. Ignoring our collective demise in the next few days, focus on what Wikileaks is doing because they should do the same thing at our school. Only one section of school is really mysterious, though: the cafeteria. The obvious place to start is the meat. What school cafeteria meat is may be the most ancient of questions, going back thousands of years, even to when our parents were kids. Some things are all right, I guess, and by some things, I’m just talking about crispitos, which are clearly what God eats for lunch. Outside of that delicious cuisine inspired from Mexican heaven, everything varies from “I guess I can get this down without gagging” to “Wow, I think I would have a better time cooking my arms and eating them.” Speaking of eating your own body parts, that lady that found a finger in her chili doesn’t have anything on us. I mean, it might be a bad sign when 25 percent of the chicken sandwiches consumed this year have what I assume is a tumor in them. (Hopefully benign because eating cancer seems, well, yucky.) Now, don’t get me wrong. I have no problem consuming tumors, but what bothers me is the fact that I can’t confirm them to be tumors. That’s where Wikileaks comes in to confirm that what we’re devouring are just tumors and not something gross like lettuce. The next thing Wikileaks could graciously Sherlock Holmes for us is how much hair is

in the food. This isn’t so much of an issue in the winter when eating hair can help keep your voice warm, but in summer? Dreadful. Wikileaks could give us stats like “The odds of discovering a human pilus on a hamburger are 1:2, while the odds on a club sandwich are a meager 1:19.” With stats like these, it’d be common knowledge to grab the club sandwich in the summer when your throat is comfortably insulated, but to grab the hamburger in the winter when you could use a little warming up in the esophagus. In fact, I’m still waiting for someone to make an esophagus sweater. Last but not least, the secrets of food pricing need to be uncovered. If that lunch costs as much as it does, it better be made of gold or rainbows or something equally neat because those prices are through the roof. Instead of eating, “Wow, I think I would have a better time cooking my arms and eating them” food, imagine dining on the exquisite meals from Hardee’s or somewhere in that same tier of fanciness. The best thing Wikileaks could do in regards to lunch pricing is reveal what exotic ingredients drive costs sky high. That way we could feel somewhat okay handing over our whole month’s wages for one measly lunch. The 20 hours I spent babysitting, attempting to emulate breast-feeding, really went to good use when I had to spend it all on a lunch. Right? After Wikileaks gets done causing our collective demise it’d be awfully nice if they could stop by our school and sift through some things in the cafeteria.

Page Editor: Taylor Rennich December 21, 2010

7 DAYS OF BAND TRIP. Senior drum major Rachel Wiley conducts the band during rehearsal as band members prepared music to perform at the Outback Bowl over Christmas break. The Marching Dutch will perform both at the Outback Bowl Parade as well as the bowl’s halftime show. “There are so many songs to memorize, but it’s cool being able to perform for other pople besides the ones in Pella,” said Wiley. •Photo by Taylor Rennich

6 HOURS LEADING. Sophomores Micah Zeimetz and Evan Jones participate at the Jostens Leadership Conference Nov. 30. “The conference motivated me to be a better member of the community and to make good choices that will affect me later in life. Also, I got to flirt with many beautiful girls, which, was the best part,” said Jones. •Photo by Joella Gerber

4 DAYS REMAINING. Sophomore Holly Reimer does homework during study hall. After Christmas break, five days remain in the first semester. The final two days of the semester will be filled with semester exams. “Semester tests mean lots of stress and cram-ming. There should be a better way to show how we’re doing in classses,” said Reimer. •Photo by Tay-lor Rennich2 HOURS SINGING. Senior Karissa Schaudt sings

downtown during the Tour of Stores Nov. 15. Mad-rigal members went through town, performing their Christmas carols. “The night we sang for Tour of Stores it was so cold outside! But of the night my favorite part was singing for the old BINGO people. They paused their intense game to let us come sing for them. I loved it!” •Photo by Kayla Da

3 WEEKS COLLECTING. Senior Heidi Gritters sets up the Christams tree in the lobby as part of the stu-dent council can drive. “I think the can drive is an awesome way for us to be aware of people in need. It’s hard for us to imagine being excited about getting a can of green beans for Christmas, but it means the world to the people who receive them, so I’m glad our school was able to help out,” said Gritters. •Photo by Jessica Salpor

9 HOURS CALCULATING: Junior Caitie Hones scrapes the front window of her car after the ACT Dec. 11. Hones, along with 43 other students partci-pated in the three-session, nine-hour math ACT prep course given by math teacher Doug Cutler. “The math prep course helped a lot because I got to see the layout of what the test would look like. I was really excited about the first snow, and it distracted me during the ACT,” said Hones. •Photo by Taylor Rennich

11 SOLOISTS PERFORMING. Freshman Faith Van Wyngarden and junior Kirsten Lambert practice the AcaPella show. Show choir started its rehearsals in December. Eleven soloists will perform in this year’s show. “Show choir is really awesome. I love every-thing about it. We’ve made so much headway in the past few weeks,” said Van Wyngarden. •Photo by Taylor Rennich

10 MINUTES DRIVING: Seniors Lisa Houser, Heidi Gritters and Caitlan Murphy pose in front of The De Vries Christmas lights. They were set up once again this year for people to enjoy them in the Christmas season. “I was surprised they had the lights up again this year. It always puts me in the Christmas spirit to go through,” said Murphy. •Photo by Jocelyn Van Dyke

12 DAYS OF BREAK! Freshmen Sierra Williams and Regan Nelson enjoy the first major snow of the year. Winter break will begin Dec. 23 and end Jan. 3. “My favorite part about break is getting to see my family from out of town and getting to play in all the snow we’ll hopefully get this year,” said Nelson. •Photo by Marielle Gaiser

8 GIRLS CHEERING: Senior Bekah Heikes cheers to the stands at the varsity boys’ basketball game vs. Knox-ville Dec. 10. The Chrismas basketball season was lit up by the presence of eight basketball cheerleaders. “I’m re-ally glad I went out this year because the girls are a lot of fun, and it’s important to get the crowd into the game,” said Heikes. •Photo by Molly Neil

1 CLASSIC TRADITION: Secret Santa. Senior Michael Ge opens the gift he received from his journalismSecret Santa. This tradition is practiced from different groups ranging from the basketball teams to groups of friends. “Secret Santa brought our whole staff together in a very fun Christmas tradition. My favorite part was exchanging presents,” said Ge.•Photo by Ann Visser

12 Days of Christmas

5 PLAYERS SHOOTING. Senior Kelsey Fynaardt takes a shot during the game against Knoxville Dec. 10. The Pella Lady Dutch defeated Knoxville 67-25. “We went into the game hard knowing they had the conference championship last year. We prepared well and played outstanding,” said Fynaardt. •Photo by Jace VerSteeg