PELLADIUMREMEMBERINGVAN VARKP. 2 P. 5

THE PELLA COMMUNITY HIGH SCHOOL NEWS PUBLICATION

WINTER SPORTSWRAP UP

2 02. 28. 2012.IN MEMORYPAGE EDITORS: BLAKE LANSER, MADDY SCHOLTEN

Speechless.Frozen.Shocked.Allemotionsthatstillarewithmetoday.Onadayfilledwithlaughter,hopefilledwiththechanceofanearlyout,howcouldemotionslikethiscome?OnFeb.13,mywholeworldwasturnedupsidedown.Onthisday,BlakeVanVarkgottodosomethingthatIcan’twaittodoinmyownlife-seeourLord,Savior,andChrist.Tobeabletoseeheavenandexperi-encesomethinglikenothingonthisearth,betterthanI-dosers,theYankees,orGunsandRoses,betterthanLarryBirdorBaseball. IhaveknownBlakesincefourthgradewhenwebothhadAnnVosasateacher.Wehungoutallthetimefromthenon-birthdayparties,churchandathishouse.IrememberthefirsttimeIwenttohishouse;wecompletelydestroyedhisbasement.Wewereplayingfootball,andIrememberhearingaloudcrashingsoundfollowedbyabunchoflaughter.WhenIlookedover,Irealizedthatthepeopleplayingfootballhadjusttakenouttwoofthelightsontheceiling.WhatIlovedaboutitwasBlakedidn’tevencare;hejuststartedpickinguptheglassandcontinuedtojokearoundandhavefun.

AnothertimeIrememberwaswhensophomoreAaronVanMaanenandBlakecameovertomyhouseafterabaseballgame.Ihonestlydon’tknowifIhaveeverlaughedharderthanIdidthatnight.BlakewouldmakefunofAaron,

thenAaronwouldmakefunofBlakerightback.Theyjustbouncedoffofeachother,anditwashilarious.Then,ofcourse,Blaketalkedaboutthegirlhewastextingandhowshewas‘totally’intohim.AaronandIjustrolledoureyesandmovedontotoplayingMadden.Again,weheardabouthowawesometheColtsareandhowhewoulddestroyuswhenweplayedhim,whichhedid.ThesearejustsomeofthehundredsofmemoriesIhaveofBlake. Forusstillonearth,thishurtslikenothingwehaveeverfeltbefore.Hedidn’tjustbreakhislegororhithishead;hedied.Towrapmymindaroundthat,ithurtslikenoneother.I’llneverwatchhimeateightdoublestacksatWendy’sorbeabletoseethatamazingsmileagain.Iwillneverbeabletohearoneofhisjokesagainorwatchhimnailaclutch‘three’thatmeanteverythingthen,butnothingnow.AllIcouldthinkatThirdChurchwas,“Whereishe?Whyhasn’thebustedthroughthedoorswiththatgreatsmileonhisface?”Ijustkeptwaitingtohearthesignature,“Eyyobaby!”ashewalkedthroughtocomfortusall.Ikeptwaitingtowakeup,andIstillam.It’ssounrealrightnow.ItfeelslikeI’mwatchingamovieorreadingabook.Now,it’snotjustastatistic,butit’smorethananumber.It’soneofmybestfriendswhoIwillneverseeopenhisearthlyeyesagain.

IwillneverforgetwhereIwaswhenIfoundout.Iwashavingthebesttimetakingpicturesandhangingoutwithmyfriendswheneverythingstopped.Standingonthetopright-handcornerofthethree-pointarc,IlearnedthatBlakewasinacrash.Therewasapossibilitythathedied,andfromthatmo-menttilnow,Ihaven’tthoughtaboutanythingdifferent.I’veneverseenmylifehaltsoquickly.Thatcould’veeasilybeenme.Ifitwasme,Ihadn’tevenbeenhomeformorethananhourthatdaybeforeIwouldgotosleepandleaveinthemorning,notappreciatingmyfamily,friendsandlovedonesatall. Nowwhat?Honestly,Ihavenoidea.HowdoImoveonfromthedeathofoneofmybestfriendsliketheworldwantsmeto?Itwillneverbethesame,sodon’ttrytoconvincemeitwillbe.He’sgone,soitcan’tbesaidthatthingswillget“backtonormal.”Itcan’tbenormalwhen,eachclassperiod,oneemptydeskwillneverbefilledagain,onepermanentlyabsentstudenteveryday.

Inthissituation,Blakewouldbesuchaleader,helpingpeoplehedidanddidn’tknow.Ifthere’sanythingIcantakefromthis,it’shisleadership,smileandwillingnesstogiveEVERYTHINGthathehadoneverypossession.Henevergaveup.

•DerrickAkers(da.pelladium@gmail.com)

Friends, family cherish memories of Van Vark

1.@VanVark1823 - sophomore Blake Van Vark. Two roads diverged in a yellow wood, and I-- I took the one less traveled by, And that has made all the difference.

2.@VanVark1823 - sophomore Blake Van Vark. watching dora the explorer is the most frustrating thing ever. if shes an explorer, why does she need so much help?! #ughThe Blake Edition

Blake greatly enjoyed Twitten By in the Pelladium. 3.@VanVark1823 - sophomore Blake Van Vark. best

gift: 6 pack of gummy bears that are the size of my fist #mysisterisalrightafterall #thankshalle

4.@VanVark1823 - sophomore Blake Van Vark. I’ve officially upgraded from ‘bleh bleh’ to ‘bake’ #2yearoldbrother #stilllearning #gettingthere

5.@VanVark1823 - sophomore Blake Van Vark. actually, yes my life did just get better mother bought 3 boxes of reeses puffs at the store. #bestcerealever #goodeatin #thanksmama

6.@VanVark1823 - sophomore Blake Van Vark. giant chicken suit costume for tomorrow? i think yes

Blake Van VarkIn Loving Memory

1995-2012

302. 28. 2012. NEWSPAGE EDITOR: JILLIAN SAGERS

As the administration prepares for weekly 90 minutes early outs in the 2012-2013 school year, new schedules are being considered to accommodate the change.

“It [the schedule changes] would not have happened if we did not change to early outs. The initial decision was that the Pella school district lacks time for professional development. Other schools have over 50 hours of development while we have less than 20,” said assistant Principal Jon Muller.

The district will have 64 hours of development in the upcoming year, but associates will not be paid during this time, nor will there be classroom instruction.

Staff development will reflect the goals of Authentic Instructional Work (AIW), an initiative created by the Iowa Department of Education.

According to the Iowa Department of Education, “the goal of this professional development initiative is to increase student learning by engaging students in authentic intellectual work. Authentic Intellectual Work (AIW) is defined by three criteria-construction of knowledge, through disciplined inquiry, to produce discourse, products, and performance that have value beyond school.”

Overall, AIW encourages teacher and student introspection, and an in-depth approach to learning.

“We want teachers to have a comprehensive understanding of district goals, the course, and the unit they are teaching so they can better communicate the information to the students,” said Principal Eric Nelson.

Currently, two schedules are being considered. The first, which is currently favored, keeps the traditional 46 minute, eight period schedule on Monday and Friday, but Tuesday-Thursday have period lengths ranging from 61-66 minutes. The second consists of four slightly different weekly schedules which will be rotated.

A schedule change is being implemented to facilitate efficiency with the early outs. Classes, such as personal fitness, which has 10 minutes allotted to allow students to change, is hindered by reduced class periods during early outs and labs often cannot be started.

Nelson sees the schedule changes as a chance to further district goals and enhance

student learning.“[Our goals are to] add construction of knowledge at a higher order of thinking. We

want to make sure there is a deeper student understanding. The third focus is having value behind school,” said Nelson.

Many concerns have been raised about the schedule changes including daily contact time because classes will only meet four times a week, schedules of teachers who work in other schools because the high school is the only school affected by the change and maintaining student’s attention spans in longer classes.The administration has been receptive to the concerns and are taking steps to combat them. Already, they have accommodated for teachers who work in other buildings, and believe that students and teachers will be able to adapt to less daily contact and longer periods.

“I think that it comes down to the class and student. If the student doesn’t like the class, it will be as boring for 60 minutes as 44 minutes,” said Muller.

“[Keeping student’s attention] will be the teacher’s responsibility. Instruction should change every 12-15 minutes. Instead of having three-to-four changes, now you’ll have four-to-five,” said Nelson.

Many students are still worried about the lengthened periods.“I don’t think there is a need to change the schedule. We have

schedules that adjust to the early outs. As a freshman, I know we have horrible attention spans, and sitting in class for over an hour will drive us crazy,” said freshman Emma Johnson.

Other students favor the change and believe it will provide a chance for teachers to adapt their teaching methods.

“I think it’s good because it forces teachers to find different things to teach about during one class period and find different things to keep students engaged in what’s going on,” said senior Joella Gerber.

•Alexander Ropes (ar.pelladium@gmail.com)

Adjusted scheduling accommodates staff development

For the past 12 years, graduating seniors from both Pella High School and Pella Christian have had the privilege to receive at least a 250 dollar scholarship thanks to the Pella Dollars for Scholars program. “Dollars for Scholars is an organization that gives students more opportunities to get scholarships,” said guidance counselor Teresa Thompson. The Pella Dollars for Scholars was created in 2000 by members of the Pella Community Foundation. In 2001 the program was awarded the National Golden Tassel Award which is presented to the best new Dollars for Scholars Chapter. The program’s mission is to assist Pella Christian and Pella Community High School graduates with financial support for post-secondary education. “Any student who is a full-time student at Pella or Pella Christian is eligible for at least a $250 scholarship,” said Thompson. The requirements for the scholarships are simple. Students must apply for the scholarship, be a full-time enrolled student at either Pella schools, be in good academic standing, and write a thank you letter to the individual or the organization providing the award. Dollars for Scholars is a nationwide program but it is operated on a local scale. All the money comes from local businesses and donors and will be awarded at Senior Awards Night, May 9.

“They [Dollars for Scholars] get local organizations and families to donate money if they are interested in helping students get a secondary education,” said Thompson.

The money given comes from different businesses and individuals around the community that want to help local high school students with a secondary education. It [the scholarships] might be a memorial scholarship that is set up in someone’s name,” said Thompson. This means that a scholarship can be set up in the name of someone without having to do it all by themselves. Dollars for Scholars gives people an easy way to make a scholarship without having to do all the logistics of setting up their own. The scholarships are based on whatever aspects the donor chooses: grades, school of choice, career choice, and others.

“Scholarships range from $250 to 1,000 and they can be used at any college,” said Thompson. What scholarship the person receives is decided by a committee that finds what scholarship they think is best suited. “The good thing is that everyone gets at least a $250 scholarship,” said Thompson.

•Gregory Frommelt (gregf.pelladium@gmail.com

Dollars for Scholars offers opportunity for future

Change will cut back number of classes per week

•Graphic by Mitch Shepperd

100 percent of students that apply for the scholarships will recieve at least $250 if they meet the requirements.

- Counselor Teresa Thompson

4 02. 28. 2012.LIFEPAGE EDITOR: GREGORY FROMMELT

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Thoughhemaycomefromasmalltown,seniorBridgerDeaton is garnering world wide attention. Deaton’s 13yearsofpracticeandexperienceinarcherypaidoffonFeb.9attheWorldArcheryIndoorChampionships,whereheclaimedthetitleofJuniorIndividualWorldChampionandJuniorTeamWorldChampion. TheIndoorChampionshipswereheldinLasVegas,Nev.,andtheeventwasattendedbycompetitorsfromacrosstheglobe. Deaton participated in the junior men’s division,which consistedof30 archers, representing14 countries.Ages in this division ranged from 17-20. These youngmenwere considered tobe among themost elite archersin the world, as they were previously qualified for thechampionshipround.  “Toqualifyforthisevent,ItravelledtoKingofPrussia,Pa.,during thefirstweekendof thenewyear.Throughaseriesofqualifications,alongwithmatchplayandaspecialpointsystem,Iqualifiedasthethirdmemberoftheteamforthechampionships,”saidDeaton.  With his sharp shooting, Deaton managed to win theJuniorIndividualgoldmedalandwentontofindsuccessonceagain intheteamshootingdivision.Deaton,alongwithhis twootherteammatesBenClelandandGarretAbernethy,placedfirstintheJuniorTeamWorldChampionship,

makingDeatonatwo-timeWorldChampion.Thesewinsdidnotcomeeasy,asDeatonhaslongbeenpreparingfortheevents.

“Ipreparedforthisbyshootingmybow,andalsoworkingonendurance,alongwithbeingabletokeepmymentalgamewhereitneededtobe.Ishotaround300-400arrowseachdayafterqualifying,alongwithshootingwithsome of my buddies that participate in archery. Visualization was anotherimportantaspectformetopractice,”saidDeaton.

Sincethewins,Deaton’s focusandworkethicremainsteady, ifnotevenmoreso.Withhopesofparticipatinginmanymorearcherycompetitionsthisyear,Deatonplansonkeepinguphisrigorouspracticeschedule. 

“It’s all still a littleoverwhelming.Afteryouwin something like this, it’simportanttoremembertokeepworkingandshootinginordertokeepgettingbetter,becausethatiswhateverysingleoneofyourcompetitorsaredoing.IwillkeepworkingashardasIcantokeepmygameupandkeepimproving,”saidDeaton. 

Upon hearing the news of his victories, Deaton was showered withcongratulationstexts,callsandFacebookmessagesfromhisfriendsandfamily.Perhapsmostproud,however,wasDeaton’ssister,Callie,a2011graduate.

“I’mvery,veryhappyhewon;Ifiguredhewould.Hedoesn’tdothatgreatunderpressure,butheconcentratesreallywellanddoesn’tletalotgetinhishead.I’mdisappointedIcouldn’tbethere,butI’msoproudofhim,”said

Callie.•MaddyScholten(maddys.pelladium@gmail.com)

Deaton brings home two world championships

•Photosubmitted

Getready,kids.ArockbandiscomingtoPella.ThebandFamilyForceFive,whosesongshavetoppedtheBillboard200 charts will be performing a stand alone concertat Vermeer Pavilion March 31.   Sound random? Notcompletely.Thebandhasuniquetieshere. ItbeganwhenbandmemberChapstique(DerekMount)cameacrossaninspiringvideoonYouTubelastMarch.ItwastheAcaPellashowchoirsinginganddancingtooneofhissongs.HeandtherestofFamilyForce5wascompletelystartledthatanyonewouldspendtimesinginganddancingto their songs. He tweeted the video, and Wes Chaplin,choirdirectorMichelleChaplin’shusband,tookthechancetotweetbackatChapstique.WesshowedChapstiquemoreof the routines thatAcaPellahaddone toFamilyForce5songs. The band was unbelievably impressed and evenpostedAcaPella’s videos of ‘Dance orDie’ and ‘Fever’ ontheirFacebookpage. “Pella’sagreatplacetoraisekids,andit’sawonderfulplaceforfamilies,butfromtheagesof13-to-22,there’snothingtodointhistownotherthangotoamovieorhangoutatSmokeyRow... there’s thisvoid,andthatwasoneof thethingswetalkedaboutwhenseekingsponsors.Wewantedtofindapositiveactivitythatwouldengageeverybodyintownandgivethemanoutlet,”saidWes. WesrecontactedChapstiqueinJunewhenheandMichellewere taking youth from different churches around townto theSunshineMusicFestival inMinnesota.TheyaskedChapstique if he wanted to get together with these kids,somewhoweremembersofAcaPella.Chapstiqueattendedaget-togetherat thecampsite, roastingshishkabobswithlocalstudents. “Itwasreallycool[tomeetChapstique]becausehe’sreallydown-to-earth, like you usually picture a rock star being

kindof cocky, buthewas reallyhumble. It’s going tobecooltohavethemintown,”saidseniorshowchoirmemberJordanBaker. Fromthere,thebandbeganaskingforwaystogivebacktoAcaPellashowchoirbecauseofthetimeAcaPellaspentchoreographing and learning their songs. Michelle and

Wesdecided thatChapstique couldmakea video for theAcaPella showchoirwhich introduced their songs for therestoftheyearattheannualshowchoirsummerretreat. “It’ssuchanhonorthatsomebodywouldpourthatmucheffort   and time into learningour songs and singing anddancingtothem,andthechoreography,andthecostumes.Itblewourminds! Wehadnoclueitwasevenhappening,andwhenwefinallysawitonYouTube,itwasabighonortous.Itwasreallycooltohangoutwithallthosepeople,andWesandhiswifewhodirectstheshowchoir.Thereis

somethingpersonalaboutartandwhensomeonerecreatessomething what you’ve made, it’s a huge honor. We’reexcitedthisyearthey’reperformingoneofoursongsagain,anewersongcalled‘KeepthePartyAlive,’and Ican’twaittoseethat,”saidChapstique. ParentschaperoningtheeventthenwantedtoencouragetheAcaPellaandFamilyForceFiverelationshipevenfurther;theywanted tobring thebandtoPella.Wes immediatelytook the lead and tried to gain sponsors and supportersof the idea. Vermeer Corporation and Pella RolscreenFoundationarepromotingpartners. “Ifitgoeswell,ourgoalwouldbewewanttheconcerttobeaneventthatcanbeaunifyingforourcommunity.Theconcertispresentedbythem[VermeerCorpandPellaRolscreenfoundation]andpromotedbyPellaHighVocalMusic. The goal is to get as many people as possible tocome,andourhopeisthatmaybenextyearPellaChristiantries to get someone like Switchfoot to come, and thenCentralwouldsaythenextyeartheywanttogetTobyMactocome,”saidWes.

Tickets are $20 at the door, $15 in advance. They arebeingsoldatthehighschool,middleschool,CentralCollegeStudentActivitiesCenter,PellaChristianHighSchool,andBranches Christian Store. The schedule for Family ForceFive’sarrivalanddeparturearestilltobedetermined. “We’vebeenmakingallthisart,andit’sreallyexcitingandfun.At somepoint you justwanna share it, sowe’re justreallyexcitedtogetthereandgonutsonstageandplayarock show.We contribute this a lot toWes... who’s beenworkingreallyhardtomakeithappen,andwe’rejustreallyexcitedtogettheretofeelyourfreezingcoldweatherandawesomehospitality,”saidChapstique. •MadelineMeyer(mm.pelladium@gmail.com)

Family Force Five plans March show at Vermeer Pavillion

•Photosubmitted

502. 28.2012. SPORTS PAGE EDITOR: MADELINE MEYER

American Family Insurance- Terlouw Agency 604 Liberty Street, Suite 133 Pella, IA 50219 641-628-1518

Boat’s Home Furnishings 620 Franklin Street Pella, IA 50219 641-628-2040

Brom Auto Service & Sales 202 Main Street Pella, IA 50219 641-628-1700

Dr. Gregory Vannucci 2601 Washington Street Pella, IA 50219 641-628-2011

G & B Concrete 2174 Coolidge Street Pella, IA 50219 641-628-8223

Grafx 2 a Tee 2018 Hwy. G-28 Pella, IA 50219 641-620-8337

Great Clips 1586 Washington Street Pella, IA 50219 641-628-8111

Iowa Bike & Fitness 814 Main Street Pella, IA 50219 641-628-1373

Jansen’s Decorating & Kitchens 614 Franklin Street Pella, IA 50219 641-628-4247

Klyn Law Office Vincent S. Klyn 729 Main Street Pella, IA 50219 641-628-1707

Leighton Processed Meats 227 Otley Street Leighton, IA 50413 641-626-3211

Midtown Tire Company 109 E. Oskaloosa Street Pella, IA 50219 641-628-1072

Pella Orthodontics Dr Kim Wass 715 Main Street Pella, IA 50219 641-628-9195

Pella Pets Veterinary Clinic 411 Oskaloosa Street Pella, IA 50219 641-620-8880

Precision Pulley & Idler Inc. 300 SE 14th Street Pella, IA 50219 641-628-3115

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To most people, the Super Bowl is a yearly event theywatch on television while eating hot wings at a party. TosophomoreKelseVeenstra,thegamewasanexperiencethatwill

berememberedforalifetime.Itwassuchaneventthat,whenhespokeofit,youcouldalmosttastetheatmosphere,orseethelightsof

thehalftimeshowinhiseyes. As a country,America reveres things that are considered ‘super’.Beitsuperpowers,orSuperman,orevensuper-nachos,anythingsuperisapointofinterestformany.Oneofthemostcelebrated‘superthings’inAmericaoccursinFebruary;theSuperBowl. Everyyear,millionsgathertowatchtwoteamsbattleitoutforthehonorofbeingthebestfootballteamintheworld. Bridgestone,amajorsponsorofthegameingeneralandtheofficialsponsorofthehalftimeshow,broughtoutmanyofitsownersand25dealers from around the country to the game. Kelse’s father, KevinVeenstra,wasoneofthe25.Kelsedescribedthegameasunbelieveable,butsaidtherewasanoticeabledifferenceintheatmosphere. “ThereweremoreGiantsfansthanPatriots.TheatmosphereatthisgamewasdifferentthanotherNFLgamesthatIhavebeento.Thisatmosphere felt more like a college-game atmosphere, because thestakeswerejustsohigh,andtheplayersclearlyreallywantedtowin,”saidVeenstra. For Kelse, the game entailed much more than just a big-time

footballgame.TheSuperBowl location isalwayspackedwithcelebrities,andhesawhisfairshareoffamousicons. “ImetpeoplelikePeytonandArchieManning,andIsawpeoplelikeKateUpton,AdamSandler,CarrieUnderwood,StevenTyler,TroyAikmanandmore.Thecoolestpart,though,waslisteningtoPeytonandArchieManningtalkforlikeanhour.TheytoldstoriesabouttheManningbrotherswhentheywerekids, and theywere really funny. Itwas really cool to listen tothem,”saidVeenstra. For many fans, the halftime show is a huge part of the Super Bowlexperience.Kelsereallyenjoyedwatchingtheperformance,eventhoughhegottowatchitfourtimes. “SinceBridgestoneistheofficialsponsorofthehalftimeshow,Igottowatchthempracticeitthreetimesfullonbeforetheyactuallyperformeditatthegame,”saidKelse. ThoughthepurposeofthetripwasfortheSuperBowl,otheractivitieslinedtheagendaaswell. “IgottoeatatarestaurantownedbyPeytonManning,andIalsogottoseeESPNconductinganinterview.OnereallycoolthingwasIgottokissthebricksatthestartoftheIndyracetrack,”saidVeenstra. TheGiantsendedupwinning21-17,buttheoutcomeofthegamedidn’tmatterasmuchtoKelseastheoverallexperience. “Lookingbackontheexperience,itwillbeoneofthosethingsthatIwillrememberfortherestofmylife,”saidKelse.

Veenstra soaks in Super Bowl•P

hoto

subm

itted

Girls’basketballwrappeduptheirseasonwithalosstoWilliamsburgFeb.18,whiletheboys’varsityteamcontinuesintothepostseason.Thegirls’team’sfinalrecordwas13-10.SeniorleaderReganCooper,left,averaged17.4pointspergame.“Itwasagreatseason.Wemightnothavemadeittostate,butwehadfunalongthewayandlearnedalotabouteachotherasateamandaspeople.ItwasaseasonIwillneverforgetbecauseofthegirls,”saidCooper. Theboys’varsitysquadposteda14-7recordaftera62-34winoverCarlisleFeb.20.SeniorSchylerKane,right,whomade15threepointersinthepastthreegamesasofFeb.20,continuestobeoptimisticaboutthepostseason.“We’redoinggreatobviouslybecausewe’reonthelongestwinningstreakwehavehadallseason,andwe’rereallysteppingitupasateam,”saidKane. TheboysfacedGrinnellFeb.23.Duetoprintingdeadlines,resultscanbefoundatpelladium.com.

Winter seasons Wrap up

Trainingtorunhurdlesinthespringmaybeahardtasktoaccomplishinthemiddleofwinter,buthurdlersfrombothgirls’andboys’tracksteamshavebeendoingjustthatsinceNovember. “It is difficult for Iowa high school athletes to do the necessary training before thespringseasonbecausethepre-seasonisinthedeadofwinterandmostrunningoptionsareinsideacementflooredhighschoolhallway.Thisisnotanidealenvironmentforanyrunner,butit’sevenmoretrickyforhurdlers,”saidhurdlercoachKariPingel. ThehurdlingteamsruninsidetheCentralfieldhousetofocusonspeed,mobilityandagility. “It’snicetohavesomeplacetoruninthewinterwhereyoucouldgetsomepractice.Italsogivesyouagoodadvantageoversomeofthecompetition,”saidjuniorKennyDuPré. For the most part, the hurdlers have been training three to four days a week sinceNovember,focusingprimarilyontheirgeneralstrength,speed,andmobility. “[Traininghasbeen]funandawesome.Ithinkwehaveabetterchanceatdoingbetteratstate,”saidsophomoreBeckyVisser. Trainingduringthewintermonthsistrickyforrunners. “It’sverydifficult for thegirls to trainduringNovember throughFebruary.So,theyfocusonalloverstrengthandmobilityintheweightroomtoimprovetheirabilitytobemorepowerfulinthespring,”saidKari. Inaddition tohurdling, juniorWadePingel lifts to strengthenhiscoreandgeneralstrength. “Iliftfourtimesaweek,doasprintworkoutonSundaysandsometimesIdoalongdistancerun,hereandthere,”saidWade. Wadeworkshard,butthemotivationtobesuccessfulintrackishisloveforthesport. “Themain reason is for the love Ihavehad longest inmy life, track andfield. I’mprettygoodatthesport,butI’mnevercontentwithmyskills;Icanalwaysgetbetter.ThemotivationtobethebestIcanbeisthereasonI’mdoingthesetrackworkouts,”saidWade. Eventhoughtheteamsarepracticinginsideofabuildingandweightlifting,Karihashopesthatthetrainingthesestudentsenduredwillpayoff. “Thehurdleteamhasbeendeterminedtomakethebestoftheirindoorsituationandpreparinginotherways,buildingtheiroverallbodystrengthandcoreandfocusingonworkouts that will reduce and improve mobility will give them a solid start to theirpracticesandmeets,”saidKari.

Hurdlers jump at pre-season training

•PhotosbyBlakeLanserandTiffanyCarter.•KaylaDa(kd.pelladium@gmail.com)

•NathanClayberg(nc.pelladium@gmail.com)

IN FOCUS6 02. 28. 2012.PAGE EDITOR: TIFFANY CARTER, 7

Th3 Numb3rs Ar3 1n

Most Popular Names

Average Amount of Sleep on a School Night

•Graphic byTiffany Carter

•Graphic by Tiffany Carter

•Graphic by Blake Lanser

•Graphic by Blake Lanser

•Graphic by Benji McElroy

2.72.82.63.1

Number of Times Shaving Per Week

SeniorJunior

Sophomore

Freshman

•Graphic by Blake Lanser•Graphic by Tiffany Carter

Freshman5’ 6”

Junior5’ 10”

Sophomore5’ 7”

Senior5’ 8”

46.4 weeks

37.1 weeks

25.6 weeks

10.7weeks

Senio

r

Freshm

an Junio

r

Sophom

ore

16.85 lbs. 13.88 lbs.18.25 lbs.14.51 lbs. 7.16 lbs.

SophomoreFreshman

JuniorNewborn Baby

Senior

Average Allowance Per Week

Freshman Sophomore SeniorJunior

•Graphic by Blake Lanser

Senior

Freshman

Sophomore

JuniorFemales

7 hours, 45 minutesMales

8 hours, 35 minutesZZ

1680

2052

1532

2063

Of 699 students, Matthew was the most popular with 11.

Average Relationship

Length

Average Back pack Weight

ZZ Z

Z

Average Number of Text Sent Per Month

59 54 87 129

•Graphic by Blake Lanser

218 were surveyed during the week of Feb. 13-18

8 02. 28. 2012.OPINIONPAGE EDITOR: ALEX ROPES

Do you agree with the 2012-2013 schedule

changes?

A

>>Junior Brandon Konfrst>>Sophomore Claire Anderson>>Freshman Kody Beller >>Spanish Teacher Paloma Soria

“It’s going to be a huge hassle, and it’s kind of unnecessary.”

“I don’t think it’s a very good idea because people will forget about

homework with the day gap between classes.”

•Derrick Akers (da.pelladium@gmail.com)

“In my opinion, the new scheduling is a pretty good idea. We still get early outs without missing out on time for any of

our classes.”

EVERYTHING’S NOT LOST•ALEX ROPES (AR.PELLADIUM@GMAIL.COM)

The death of Blake Van Vark has transcended our high school, and his impact and the impact of his death are resonating throughout the community. The red eyes, heaving sobs and sniffling noses present in the gym on the morning of Feb. 14 serve as a testament that death affects more than close friends and family, because on that morning, I saw utter strangers mourn amid Blake’s closest friends.

My immediate reaction, though it may seem callous, was to wonder why these strangers were grieving; what had they lost? As I have mulled over this, talked to these strangers and read one too many Facebook statuses, I have found that these individuals have just as much to mourn for as his closest friends.

In the wake of his death, I was afraid our town would be transfixed upon what could have been. I was worried I would arrive at school to find hundreds of students mourning the fact that they never got a chance to be friends with Blake, because chances are, if he were still alive, we would still have a school full of students who would never be friends with Blake. It is unreasonable to assume any student can befriend the entire student population. I was pleasantly surprised to find that my initial assumption was incorrect.

Rather than focusing on the relationship that could have developed because someone said ‘hi’ to Blake between fourth and fifth period, students are focusing on what did happen. They are coming together, realizing and appreciating the fragility of life.

As I have looked through the social media response, I have found my fair share of Bible verses and RIP statuses, but among those, I have also discovered high school students coming to realistic terms with a loss. I have encountered students acknowledging that they only knew Blake for a short while -who may have only had discussions with him at

a Sunday night youth group- but who have found joy in what they did experience, not in what they can never have.

I am not surprised by our community coming together, for I would expect nothing less, but I am impressed by the authenticity of the public’s emotions. The heartbreak, hope and condolences are not a reflex, not something people do because they know what they should say in a situation. It’s because people want to say it. It’s because people mean what they say, which should speak volumes about the citizens of our town.

Finally, students are beginning to realize the fragility of life. We’ve always thought high school students, children with so much opportunity and promise looming, do not die.

At least, they shouldn’t. Blake’s death has cracked our feeling of invincibility and opened the eyes

of many. Though for some this may serve as a short period of introspection, and for others it may change the rest of the high school career, all of us now realize that we are part of the real world, and can still fall victim to the claws of mortality. As said by fellow senior and columnist Benji McElroy, “At least, in the wake of Blake, we’ll all feel that

necessary vulnerability.”I never knew Blake. In fact, I do not believe I have ever said a word to him, but I have

been affected by Blake, even if it has been posthumously. Blake’s death has caused an outpouring of sincerity which cannot be grasped through a column or news coverage. I cannot grieve at the loss of a family member, friend or even acquaintance, but I am sorrowful for all of those who can, and because of them, and how they have come together and handled this situation, I have never been prouder of this town.

IRREGARDLESS•BENJI MCELROY (BME.PELLADIUM@GMAIL.COM)

Nicholas Sparks owes every red-blooded, girl-questing guy alive a big, fat apology. Not for writing heart-warming, tear-jerking novels-turned-blockbusters (because, to tap into my inner Ross Mathews, they are fantabulous), but for writing scenes so over-saturated with romance that they’d supply the world with enough valentines to last until 2053.

When all my best attempts at good old fashioned chivalry are measured against “The Notebook,” they’re going to fail miserably. It’s like expecting the basketball team’s 11th man to play like a 5’6 Lebron James.

Chivalry is dead because of Hollywood-expectations, not a lack of effort. Unless a guy has some combination of Channing Tatum, a green screen and a million dollar budget, he’s essentially out of luck. He might as well crawl back to the Internet where a 31-year-old divorcee has little-to-no standards. A smiley is infinitely easier to pull-off than a Sparks-esque scene.

To be fair, ladies have standards to meet too. It’s hard to compete with cover models who have airbrushed skin, silicon-assisted boobs and sucked-in waistlines. But, here’s the difference: high school guys are desperate for girls like dogs are for tennis balls. Air Bud couldn’t care less if the ball has scuff marks and a pigeon liver stuck to it. It’s a tennis ball! Much like a high

school guy is willing to overlook anything short of an Adam’s apple (and even that’s a debatable cut-off) because, hey, it’s a girl!

Girls do no such thing. Sure, they tend to overlook general douchebaggery, but, when it comes to dates, they do their best Gil Grissom and examine everything with C.S.I.-like thoroughness.

He opened the door for me. He must be a sexist pig who thinks I’m incapable!He smiled at the waitress. Two-timing scumbag!He said I looked beautiful tonight. I guess I don’t look gorgeous!Every date is like the NFL combine and one girl more than makes up for the lack of a

hundred scouts. Instead of measuring prospects with 40-yard-dash times and Wonderlic scores, girls measure guys with a complicated algorithm that goes something like:

At the end of the night, guys are critiqued more than an America’s Next Top Model contestant. And that’s before the Sparks-level expectations come into play.

Look, if I could pull-off romantically laying in the street without getting run over or looking like a meth head, I totally would. I’m sure any guy would. There’s not a lack of effort here. We want girls to appreciate the clean (not to mention matching) pair of socks we bothered to put on!

I don't mean to dupe ladies into settling for a Dairy Queen date, but expectations somewhere between Dairy Queen and Nicholas Sparks would be more realistic. One part Blizzard. One part Channing Tatum. I’m just saying, us guys are doing our best.

I think it is better for students learning a foreign language to be exposed everyday to that

language, even if that means to have 30 minutes class once a

week”

“A SMILEY IS INFINITELY EASIER TO PULL-OFF THAN A SPARKS-ESQUE SCENE”

“RATHER THAN FOCUSING ON THE RELATIONSHIP THAT COULD HAVE DEVELOPED, STUDENTS ARE

FOCUSING ON WHAT DID HAPPEN”

Seniors Brett Renaud, Zach Buchheit, Jordan Baker •Photo by Tiffany Carter

902. 28. 2012 OPINIONPAGE EDITOR: JACK PARISEE

Executive Editors: Tiffany Carter, Benji McElroy, Madeline Meyer, Maddy ScholtenPage Editors/Reporters: Benji McElroy, Jillian Sagers, Maddy Scholten, Gregory Frommelt, Madeline Meyer, Tiffany Carter, Alex Ropes, Jack Parisee, Evan Jones, Mitch Shepperd, Marielle GaiserVisuals: Blake Lanser, Marielle Gaiser, Jillian Sagers, Mitch Shepperd, Micah ZeimetzReporters: Derrick Akers, Nathan Clayberg, Kayla Da, Jake Dorman, Ben Konfrst, Sarah Muller, Ji Seo, Haley Sytsma Adviser: 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 Commu-nity 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.

Alternative NewsEditorial Cartoons

Staff Editorial

Those of us who are left after a tragedy occurs have an opportunity to decide how we react to what has happened. Though we may not have all known Blake personally, from what has been said, it is easy to see that he was a kind, positive young man who sincerely cared for the well-being of others. While continuing with our lives, and our daily tasks may seem selfish and wrong, with this knowledge, we must realize that he would want us to not only proceed with our normal activities, but do them with with a greater appreciation for the opportunity to and celebrate that we have one another to do these activities with. Instead of dwelling on what we should have done or how we should have acted, we should do our best to do what’s right now and try to correct our mistakes. Instead of taking the people we love or the opportunities we are given for granted, we should express the way we feel, show our appreciation and take full advantage of every chance we’re given, and a chance is exactly what Blake gave us. He gave us a chance to step back and examine the way we live and how we treat others. He gave us a chance to not only recognize these things but to also find ways to fix them and turn things around. What we all need to understand with this gift is that second chances are rare. For those who now regret the missed opportunity of getting to know Blake, don’t dwell on it. Focus on avoiding that same mistake. Approach those you’ve passed in the halls and previously added to your mental ‘Get to Know’ list. Spend that extra five minutes getting to know the person that’s been sitting next to you all semester, as opposed to your normal routine of salivating over the Italian dunkers being served at lunch and waiting to dart out of the classroom. Take advantage of your science lab partnership and use your multitasking skills to learn about someone new. We have numerous chances everyday to get to know others around us, we just need to learn how to recognize and act on them. While it is a tragedy alone that it took a death for many of us to realize how much we care for others, how we want to live our lives, how we want to be remembered, we should appreciate how much someone so young has taught us and take advantage of the fact that we have the opportunity to live out the message he’s left us with. Show the people you love your appreciation, be the person every day that you want to be remembered as and cherish every moment you have with them.

Van Vark tragedy provides realization

>>STUDY. Seniors Benji McElroy and Tiffany Carter listen during FCS class at Pella Christian High School. The Pelladium editors, which also included senior Maddy Scholten and Madeline Meyer, spent half a day at PC Feb. 6. •Photo by Maddy Scholten

•Mitch Shepperd

Pella Christian visit broadens perspectivesFeb. 6, Pelladium editors were invited by the editors of the Eagle’s Cry to participate in a school swap, in which the day was split between schools with each group of editors observing the others’ school.

Maddy Scholten: In normal circumstances, I can’t help but feel the rivalry and competi-tion between Pella Christian and Pella High. This deep-seeded animosity has led to the making of countless rumors and assumptions about each school, often-times the truth being hidden behind the adamant opinions of students. The cookie break was definitely a shock, as it seems health regulations have taken over our own school. Perhaps an even bigger shock, though, was the common attitudes of the students and staff at PC. In each class we attended, we were warmly greeted as old friends, and the atmosphere was one of hospitality and kindness.

Madeline Meyer: One thing that stood out to me, in particular, was the ease each student had in professing their faith. There weren’t snide comments or remarks about quoting from the Bible or judgments about a student for using Jesus as a reason to support factual infor-mation. Although different forms of debates at our school call for ‘scientific fact’, I thought that these arguments were just as valid. In addition to the profession of faith students had throughout the day, I was equally surprised to sit in on a Spanish class and have the teacher pull out a guitar and sing for the class in Spanish!

Tiffany Carter: While many may feel that any animosity toward rival school PC should be based on sports or any other competition, our school should instead feel jealous of one thing in particular- the cookie break. The price for such a wonderful mid-morning treat? A quarter. It may be widely-believed in public school that all they do in PC is talk about Jesus and pray. While this visit certainly proved otherwise, I did notice an incorporation of reli-gion in basically all of the classes we attended. Even in Spanish a quiz (with a rather lenient due date I must say), consisted of memorizing and reciting a certain Bible verse in Spanish. This may seem absurd to many here, but we also forget Christian is in their school name.

Benji McElroy: Pella Christian was school pretty much like any school is school. There were pencils, desks and teenagers. These teenagers just happened to be better-behaved and the lack of open rebellion led to a more relaxed classroom atmosphere. Something Bible-related was mentioned in every class we attended. Not just the acceptance of Christianity, but the general assumption of it was foreign coming from a school where an accidental Bible verse on Youtube leads to a quick teacher apology.

•Pelladium Editors

10 02. 28. 2012.ENTERTAINMENTPAGE EDITOR: EVAN JONES

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If you didn’t get your fill of award season, in last month’s edition, you are in for a treat. If you did, Twitten By is on the next page.

This year’s award season is way less predictable than previous ones. There is no sure pick for Best Picture at the Oscar’s. “The Help,” “The Descendants” and “The Artist”

have all walked away with awards claiming them to be “best of the year.”To recap this year’s award season so far: the Golden Globes were a joke, the

Director’s Guild of America gave their top honor to a French director, and the Best Picture race is still up in the air.The Golden Globes were a joke for many reasons. First off, they rewarded

Madonna “Best Original Song in a Motion Picture.” She received the award for her song “Masterpiece” from her movie “W/E,” which is this year’s knock-off of “The

King’s Speech.” It was ridiculous how they left Bret McKenzie out for his awesome work in “The Muppets,” but giving the award to Madonna, that’s just a bit too much. Secondly, because the Golden Globes split up the best picture awards based on them being comedy/musical or drama, it leads to annoying genre confusions. I can understand how they tossed “50/50” into the Musical/Comedy section, and I am glad that it was nominated, but, I challenge you to sit through that movie and tell me it’s not a drama. Another confusion is “My Week with Marilyn.” Just because the movie is about Marilyn Monroe, who can sing, doesn’t mean that it’s a musical. I’m going to say that four of the six movies nominated for Best Picture Musical/Comedy were dramas first, comedies

second. Despite these things, the Globes were amazing due to host Ricky Gervais. You have no idea what he’s going to do next, and that keeps things interesting.

The Directors Guild of America rewarded Michal Hazanavicius, director of the French silent film, “The Artist,” the award for Best Director. It was true that of the directors in the category, he had the most talent. But, it is the Director’s Guild of America, and usually that implies the film is made in America. Hazanavicius could have waited until the French equivalent, the César Award, was thrown into his lap.

Finally, this year’s award season has been one of the more unpredictable of previous years. Last year, at this time, everyone knew that “The King’s Speech” was going to win the award. This year, it could go to one of three movies: “The Help,” “The Descendants” or “The Artist.” Each have won their fair share of Best Picture awards, and until Oscar night, we won’t know for sure who’s going to walk away with the gold.

•Mitch Shepperd (mps.pelladium@gmail.com)

•Tiffany Carter (tc.pelladium@gmail.com)

Daniel Radcliffe is all grown up. Now that this Harry Potter has graduated from Hogwarts, it’s time to move on to bigger and better things. In Radcliffe’s new movie, “The Woman in Black,” instead of learn-ing spells and playing Quidditch, Radcliffe is in for new meaning of the “Dark Arts”.

Set in an old, remote village, Radcliffe portrays a widowed lawyer sent to sell a house with a dark history. From the beginning, Radcliffe’s lack of speech is there, but what isn’t said is made up for by the suspense in both the house and the village. Having Radcliffe alone in the woman’s house with no one to talk to is a setting that would make for any good horror movie. Adding the fact that basically everywhere Radcliffe goes, trag-edy follows makes things that much more eerie.

It’s a little hard to accept the fact that Radcliffe is, himself, without a wand and a scar across his forehead, but this movie does prove that he has left the Wizard-ing World and expanded his acting horizons. He does a good job of playing the depressed and lonely char-acter Arthur Kipps and for those who adore his lovely British accent, it’s still there for viewers to enjoy.

As for the rest of the cast, not many of the faces are recogniz-able, but, they do their fair share at making the “Woman In Black” that much more frightening. The town has many secrets they don’t want to share with Kipps. Judging by the confusing and semi-cheesy ending, a sequel could possibly be on the way in the future.

Overall, it was a well put together film bound to get some people jumping out of their seats. It’s one of the better thrillers I’ve seen in awhile, despite a not-so-thrilling ending, I was impressed at how Radcliffe and his fellow actors performed. Though the movie strays away a little from the original work of Susan Hill’s book, it’s still a chilling story that makes it is worth a trip to the theater. It’s already been made into both a play and a television series, so it’s about time a movie was added to the list.

“Friday” by Rebecca Black: 2011While I refused to allow this song to be sung or played in my

presence, it still managed to get stuck in my head, along with ev-eryone else’s. This YouTube sensation became an epidemic, reach-ing even biology classrooms (thank you Mr. Siewert). While the hype over “Friday” has died down, unfortunately, one can still be haunted by Black’s nasally voice from just hearing the words “It’s Friday.”

And the award for ‘Best Picture’ goes to...

Radcliffe’s stars in “Woman in Black”

“In the End” by Linkin Park: 2000These ear-pieced and gel-spiked haired individuals created the

perfect solution for those hardcore, yet mainstream, music seekers. While having “In the End” in your purchased folder for iTunes is excusable, some of us may have taken it a little too far by memoriz-ing the lyrics, or even going to the lengths of establishing a duet system with a sibling (not to say I did that...).

“U Got It Bad” by Usher: 2001The fact that the title uses MSN chat lingo should say quite a

bit, but anyone who claims to have never appreciated Usher at some point is lying. It’s hard to avoid belting out the very first notes (it is quite powerful), but I would definitely save any at-tempts to imitate Usher’s signature dance movies for when you’re home alone.

“Far Away” by Nickelback: 2005Sorry, boy band rock fans, but knowing the lyrics to, let alone

enjoying, any Nickelback song should come with embarrassment. As horrifying as it is to be able to sing anything more than the cho-rus, if it ever comes on the radio, liking awful music was allowed in middle school, so don’t be too mortified.

“Don’t Speak” by No Doubt: 1995 Apparently, as a one-year-old, I had incredible taste, and to be

honest, I’m probably not as embarrassed with my Gwen Stefani obsession as I should be.

“All the Small Things” by Blink 182: 1992Never has there been a more repetitive and choppy, yet enjoy-

able song, and, as a stickler for quality lyrics, I admit to putting aside my standards for this one. Oh, us 90’s kids.

“Love Story” by Taylor Swift: 2008Yes, as painful as it is to say, I was just like the millions of other

teenage girls who related their life to the lyrics of this song. But, hey, what girl hasn’t at least once longed for their life to be like a fairytale? From now on, I’ll deny making any personal connection to this song, and I recommend the same for the rest of you ladies.

•Haley Sytsma (hs.pelladium@gmail.com)

•Photo from http://www.womaninblack.com

•Graphic by Marielle Gaiser

THE SHAMEFUL SEVEN:

The top 7 “guilty pleasure” songs

WhateverMan

•Micah Zeimetz

1102. 28. 2012. MENTAL HUGPAGE EDITOR: MITCH SHEPPERD

1.@B_kreykes - sophomore Beth Kreykes. #whydopeople be so dumb all the time

2. @darikooistra- senior Darik Kooistra. Realizing that while I’m writing a speech on how to be a gentleman, I haven’t shaved for a week #ohtheirony

3. @_AshleyKirkland - freshman Ashley Kirkland. Started changing in the car, didn’t realize there was a full car of little kids next to me.. #ohshoot #sorrykiddos #awk

4. @6etnyre9 - junior Michael Etnyre. This tweet is about trees, love ‘em hate ‘em #trees.

5.@sami_wassenaar - sophomore Sami Wassenaar. Oh i didn’t know the cast of Jersey Shore lived in Washington, iowa. #gtl #faketans

6. @BaileyTripp1 - junior Bailey Tripp. Best way to make money in pella... off of middle school hormones. #promfundraiser

Students’ Top tweets from the past month

7. @gabimeirick - junior Gabi Meirick. Now I lay me down to rest I pray I pass tomorrows test and if I die before I wake that’s one less west civ test I’ll have to take #toomuchinfo

8. @palmersam44 - junior Sam Palmer. @EvanXJones The cicada emerges at midnight every sixteen years, they are promptly eaten by birds as they attempt to mate. #dangersofsex

9. @mandy_nossaman - freshman Mandy Nossaman. Mom just called me to see if we had something at home because she’s at the grocery store. #iminthecar #waiting

10. @Sethjohnson - freshman Seth Johnson. Shout out to my first 15 followers. You made the right choice. #thankmelater

11. @HollyReimer - junior Holly Reimer. your calves are bigger than mine... #igetthatalot

High School Hazard Jillian Sagers

Sunday is a lost day, filled with dread for the wretched tomorrow and always panicked thoughts for assignments that need to be completed for the following week. In light of tradition, gal pals Tiffany and Marielle geared up in their best sweats and hit the couch in style for the ultimate “snuggle Sunday.” The Grammys are a musical event designed to celebrate music in all its forms.

The two partners in crime set off in search for the finest cuisine in town before hitting the red carpet. Naturally, a Chinese buffet met all the requirements for high class dining. After being delighted with the artery clogging food of champions, the dynamic duo retreated from society and descended down to Marielle’s basement.

The dark abyss was a perfect stage for hosting the highly esteemed awards show on the big screen. Soon, a crew of misfits assembled into the dark room and a small crowd began to view the event.

Almost forgotten, L.L. Cool J was host for the night, and the performances kicked off with big names such as Paul McCartney, The Foo Fighters, Coldplay, and several others. Shockingly after only three years under the radar, Chris Brown hit the stage in a comeback performance.

Not to be overlooked, Adele took home six Grammys and swept the stage. Her biggest accomplishment was Best Album of the Year, and she soon began to tear up during her acceptance speech. The whole audience was amazed at how thick her English accent was but how clearly they can understand her when she sings.

Stars and celebs stole the night, but the best part of the evening was the last minute Whitney Houston memoria. She was an icon and set the stage for R&B forever. Her sudden death was a shock for the entire musical community and the tribute from Jennifer Hudson was the perfect rendition of her “I Will Always Love You.”

As the night closed, we remembered Whitney for all her glory, and the gal pals split for the day, knowing they had celebrated the Grammys for all their worth. And Whitney, we will always love you.

STARRING

ADELE

How to score

a PROM DAT E

•Evan Jones (ej.pelladium@gmail.com)

•Marielle Gaiser (mg.pelladium@gmail.com)•Tiffany Carter (tc.pelladium@gmail.com)

It’s that time of the year, when students get busy trying to find a date for the April 14 prom. Howev-er, for students who do not

know how to get the right one, here are a few tips. First, ask someone you already know as a friend. Inviting

someone who’s never said more than, “Can I borrow a pen-cil?”, to you severely decreases your chances. I mean, who wants to go to the prom with somebody they barely know? You might want to because he or she is the best-looking person in school, but you probably won’t have a good time.

Second, be smart. It is more fun to go to the prom when you are with a person you have known for at least a year or two than picking up somebody you barely know off the “street,” just because you think the person is attractive but

it does not mean that you will have a night to remember. Get familiar before you ask. If the prom is several weeks away, “prime” your desired date by talking to the one who you want to ask a little bit, if you aren’t already.

Third, make him/her laugh and put your best foot for-ward. Show the person how well you can get along and how much fun you can have. Give them a positive association to think back to when you eventually do ask. As people say, “Being positive is key.” A compliment is always a good start because girls are more emotional than boys.

•For the guys: Make sure you have a huge smile. Make her laugh. Strike up good conversations. Sweep her off her feet.

•For the girls: Make yourself attractive. Be confident. Catch his attention. Show him that you like him.

Ask creatively. Prom is nearing, and it’s time to put your-self out there. If you’re a guy, you’ll probably be expect-ed to go all out and be romantic. If you’re a girl, the guy might feel intimidated and embarrassed if you come on too strong. Know your potential date well enough to recognize

what he/she likes best! 1) Hit-and-run methods. These are best for if rejection

is a high possibility. They’re daring, but if the answer is no, it won’t be as awkward. For example: Make a prom Face-book group, and simply invite the person of your choice to prom from there. It’s as easy as clicking on “select guests to invite” and clicking on the person’s name. Add a personal message if you want. If the person responds as attending, you may get a date.

2) Romantic methods. Best for asking a girl you’re al-ready dating and who you can expect to say yes. For ex-ample: A guy can sing a song or write a poem to a girl. However, if you really want to impress her you should write them.

3) Comical methods. Best for the brave and the humor-ous. Higher success rate for girls asking guys than any other method. For example: Girls can just make a “joke” to go to prom with the guy who she wants to go with. Remember. Prom is just for fun. No pressure.

•Tim Seo (ts.pelladium@gmail.com)

WRAPPING IT ALL UPThrough celebrations of the last year of high school, along with coming together in the face of a tragedy to support fellow classmates and athletics, the community joined together. Several activities drew to an end

with the culmination of the girls’ basketball season, wrestling, large group speech, and other activities.

12 02. 28. 2012.PHOTOPAGE EDITOR: MARIELLE GAISER

>>EXCELLENCE Senior Hannah Van Wyk and senior Mikki Nunnikoven demonstrate how to paint several different figures as they learned in Painting II. Students gathered Feb. 13 to showcase the projects and talents acquired in various electives.•Photo by Tiffany Carter

•Senior Amanda Lauritsen

•Freshman Corey Elliot•S

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•Senior Katie Sunderman

>>SKI Junior Carmen Van Engen screams while snow tubing at Sleepy Hollow. The senior class spent Feb. 8 skiing, snow boarding and tubing. Several seniors experienced these winter activities for the first time, while others were seasoned pros. •Photo by Blake Lanser

>>THEATRICAL Junior Megan Sims and sophomore Jack Parisee perform a section from a “Little Red Riding Hood” spin-off in, “Totally Red” at state speech. “It was so much fun to perform both of my events, and my favorite part was getting to act crazy for improv,” said sophomore Sydney Swanson. After state, the improv. teams of seniors Kelly Anderson and Marielle Gaiser and juniors Mitch Shepperd, Evan Jones, Bailey Tripp and Micah Zeimetz advanced to all-state. The freshman team of Collin Jones, Kody Beller and Elenor Witt also advanced to all-state for their ensemble performance, “Greater Tuna.” •Photo by Tiffany Carter

•Senior Katelyn Van Kooten

•Sen

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•Senior Stacie Vriezelaar

•Sen

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•Senior Paige Van Gorp

•Senior Meredith Slycord

•Senior Bailey Vande Weerd

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•Junior Kenny DuPré

•Sophomore Sydney Swanson •Junior Sam Palmer

•Sophomore Aaron Van Maanen •S

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Below: Senior Jesse Merk, Andy Hardine, Paul Andersen, Trevor Wood, Tyler Swanson, Schyler Kane, Bren-nan Mejia. Back: Seniors Ryan Morgan, Jacob De Waard, junior Wade Pingel, seniors Jace Ver Steeg, Aaron Tysseling, Aric Balk.

>>WHITE OUT Fans go crazy at the girls’ basketball game Feb. 15. “We wanted to do a fan dance, so we asked Mr. Otte if we could do the interlude by Attack Attack. It was a huge success, wearing the costumes just added to the fun,” said junior Kenny DuPré. Fans showed their support in the stands by wearing white. •Photo by Blake Lanser