theLake Stevens High School JanuaryValhalla 25th, 2011 Vol #83 Issue #5 [email protected] 2news Profi le pictures on Facebook linked to awareness and pedophiles by Hannah Bartow A popular post has people wondering the campaign came from and what it means Sports Editor Many have heard of Facebook and a majority of “Although the NSPCC did not originate the child- students even manage an account. Of those with hood cartoon Facebook campaign, we welcome the attention it has brought to the work we do,” said the group according to their Twitter posts. anagainst account, child someabuse.” recently The campaign changed that their started profile on About halfway through the week and 90,000 picturesDecember to 5th,cartoon urged characters people to to changesupport their the “fight pro- “likes” later, reports arose that pedophiles started the photo fad. cartoon shows in order to trigger fond memories “The rumors are now sweeping the net that the filefrom pictures Facebook to pictures users’ childhood. of their favorite childhood campaign is actually a smokescreen for pedophiles The original message posted on Facebook for hoping to narrow down which users are children,” Photo courtesy of creativecommons.org according to Sarah Nelson from DailyMail.com. no human faces on Facebook, but an invasion of After the articles broke out, chain posts were the shows on TV when we were little. If a picture the profile picture swap read, “There should be found all over Facebook warning people about tures with their favorite childhood cartoon char- changing their pictures. it probably is a little kid,” said sophomore Louie memories.acter.” Everyone is to swap their profile pic- “Did everyone hear about the group asking ofTayag. SpongeBob is a person’s profile picture then Although the campaign brought great publicity child abuse campaign was started by the chil- favorite cartoon characters is actually a group of to organizations hoping to stop child abuse many dren’sMany charity people National believed Society that for the the fight Prevention against everyonepedophiles? to They’rechange doingtheir profileit because picture kids towill their ac- of Cruelty to Children, NSPCC. However, the NSP- cept their friend requests faster if they see a car- “Putting a post on Facebook isn’t really going CC organization denied any involvement with the toon picture. It has nothing to do with supporting found it an ineff ective solution. photo craze. child violence; it was on tonight’s news, please stop child abuse then they should go out and talk copy and paste,” posted sophomore Chelsea Hunt to people make ato diff help erence. support If the people cause,” saidwanted sopho- to help on her Facebook wall. more Aaron Piega. Facebook spokesperson, Simon Axten, was An article on CNN.com pointed out that child quick to deny the claims of the originators of the abuse awareness should not be limited to just cartoon campaign. one time in the year. However, the National Child “The rumor [about pedophiles starting the child abuse campaign] is false,” Axten told Fox- abuse is in April. News.com. “Thousands of people have taken up Abuse“I don’t Prevention see why Month a campaign for the fight would against come child out almost half a year before the actual designated month. It just doesn’t make sense to me,” said thechosen.” campaign, none of whom can be identified as Tayag. eitherSome young disagree or old with based the on claims the profile made picture by Ax- Although the Cartoon for Child Abuse Campaign ten, while others were unaware of the allegations became a top search on Google, the originators of spreading by the messages being posted on their both the cartoon swap and pedophile allegations walls. are still unknown. Even though no one has taken “Well, if someone puts up a picture of Rugrats claim to starting these viral announcements, it did or The Wild Thornberry’s then it’s going to be Photo courtesy of creativecommons.org someone our age because those were some of tures to support child abuse. not stop people from changing their profile pic- The Korean confl ict escalates Keeping Connected: by Connor Wilson US troops are sent to South Korea Staff Reporter News around the world Recently, North and South Korea South Korea to participate in war -Death toll expected to reach 1,000 after a landslide in Brazil: With 207 still games with the South Korean mili- missing and 741 already found dead, the landslide on January 19th is one of the over disputed areas near the border tary, which further frustrated North worst landslides in decades (www.reuters.com). betweenhave been the exchanging two countries. artillery This has fire Korea. North Korea recently stated raised international tensions to the that military action will be taken if -Italian prosecutor’s, Silvio Berlusconi, reputation is damaged in sex scandal: highest in decades. South Korea encroaches on the bor- The seventy-four year-old man is accused of hiring an underage prostitute (www. “It was kind of a [rude] move on der by even “0.001 millimeter,” ac- reuters.com). North Korea’s part. The whole thing cording to huntingtonpost.com seems uncalled for and almost un- The United States has stated that -Starbucks’ new Trenta size: Starbucks has come out with a new cup size. Trenta provoked,” said senior Miles Titland. it will defend South Korea from an is Italian for thirty, but the cup really holds 31 ounces and is only available for cold Four South Korean citizens have attack by their communist neighbors drinks and only in 14 states (www.bsckids.com). been killed and some are wondering from the north. The U.S. presence in -Vietnam’s communist goverment blocks Facebook: As the government begins whether or not war will break out, South Korea is raising tensions, not to fear self expression on the web, different blogs and sites have been locked. New and if the United States will become only in the North, but has also raised legislation could force cyber-cafes to install monitoring software on their computers involved. questions about China: Whose side (us.oneworld.net). “It might lead to more of the com- will they be on? Well, China recently bat training we’ve been participating stated that they would not defend -A Philadelphia doctor charged with murdering babies: Dr. Kermit Gosnell is be- in with South Korea,” said Titland. “If North Korea in the event of a new Ko- ing charged with performing late-term abortions as far into the pregnancy as eight the shelling continues it might even rean war. China said that they would months and even killing newborns after inducing labor (www.bbc.co.uk). lead to a war between North and no longer remain North Korea’s ally, South Korea.” unless they cease their “spoiled child -A third suicide attack kills 15 more people: The �irst attack occurred when a Since the artillery strike, U.S. non- attitude,” according huntingtonpost. man drove an ambulance packed with explosives into a police training center, killing combat troops have been sent to com. 13 and injuring 70. The second attack, in which a man in an explosive vest detonat- ed the bomb near a convoy, killed two more people (tothecenter.com).

-Mental health screening for troops: Screening troops for mental health problems before they deploy has been shown to signi�icantly reduce the chance of developing behavioral or psychiatric problems (healthland.time.com).

Main Street Center 1805 Main Street PO Box 903 Lake Stevens, WA 98258 (425) 377-2850 Come on in: Tues.- Thurs. 4:30-8 p.m. Free Gaming Room! Fri. 2-8 p.m. Sat. 10-8 p.m. Come play your favorite Sun. 12:30-6 p.m. board games! Photos courtesy of creativecommons.org [email protected] news3 Wikileaks sparks global controversy Superheroes come to Seattle by Austin Carlton by Jennifer Rojas Julian Assange on trial pending sex crimes Staff Reporter Protecting the city with courage Staff Reporter

Great debate has been seen in re- its support for North Korea if it contin- On November of 2010, a cent months over a certain watchdog ued to act like “a spoiled child”. This group of people dressed in su- site, called Wikileaks. For several years came just as tensions in the North and perhero costumes were found now the site has been circulating dif- South Korea rose amid a particularly roaming the streets of Seattle. ferent documents which are intended Police say that they have been to show things not intended for the several South Koreans in an artillery patrolling the streets at night general public. In the past, Wikileaks’ coldstrike. standoff, after North Korea killed trying to save people from founder, Julian Assange, has been un- Also in the leaks was a key Saudi of- crime. der scrutiny by the United States and The group of ten call them- other governments for his release of selves the Rainy City Super- information. The “Iraq War Diaries” ficialwhile recommendingtalking about Iran. that the US “cut hero Movement Thorn, Bust- and “Collateral Murder” videos were offHowever, the head not of the all studentssnake” if hereneed atbe, er Doe, Green Reaper, Gemini, Photo courtesy of creativecommons.org - LSHS share the opinion that the re- No Name, Catastrophe, Thun- zation sparked controversy. der 88, Red Dragon, Penelope go anywhere in the world theRecently first times however, Assange the and controversy his organi thing. A lot of controversy has come and Phoenix Jones the Guard- whenever I want, like super- comes from the release of over 250,000 leaseover of a fewclassified of the documents diplomatic is a cables good ian of Seattle are the names man,” said junior Jessica Mc- which have given details on US troops’ that the group members go Gee. stemming from the U.S.’s diplomats’ - by. Phoenix Jones was caught classifiedconversations and withdeclassified others arounddocuments the tion. On January 2, 2011, Phoe- in action on tape while at a world. Students at LSHS are mostly locations“I think and that other some classified of the documents informa nix Justice, one of the masked comic book store. On tape a supportive of the release of the diplo- being released put U.S. troops in un- avengers behind the Rain City man enters in a room that matic cables. necessary danger and there should be Superhero Crime Fighting was hidden behind a book- “I like seeing what goes on behind laws in place to stop this kind of thing movement, prevented a car shelf and emerges as Phoenix closed doors, as it gives me a better from happening again,“ said sopho- jacking in Lynnwood, Wash- Jones. understanding of more Autumn Woolridge. ington. Police say that what these how government Despite some of the Wikileaks’ ca- According to CNN News, real-life superheroes are do- works,” said junior bles clarifying some things the public Dan, the victim of the attempt- ing is something very dan- Jared Rose. would otherwise not have access to, ed car jacking, said, “From the gerous and that they can get The conversa- like a cable which showed that Saudi right, this guy comes dashing hurt, but. They still risk their tions between Arabia was actually encouraging the in just wearing this skintight lives for the safety of others. diplomats and for- U.S. to deal with Iran. Controversy has rubber black and golden suit “When I walk into a neigh- and just starts chasing [the borhood, criminals leave be- sparked world- which detailed key U.S. buildings over- suspect]away.” cause they see the suit. I sym- eignwide officials controversy have arisenseas, in over what some some specific called documents a list that The main superhero of the bolize that the average person as many reveal terrorists could use for making targets group is Phoenix Jones. He doesn’t have to walk around secrets that gov- around the globe. Though no such at- may not have super powers and see bad things and do ernments would tacks have happened as of yet, the U.S. like the ones in movies, but he nothing,” said Phoenix Jones, rather not be pub- views the release of the documents as carries tasers, nightsticks and according to ABC News. licly known. One a threat and has since been trying to pepper spray to defend him- Like comic books these real- cable involving a come up with a case against Assange. life heroes prevent crimes, Chinese diplomat Currently Assange is awaiting trial “If I could have any super but let’s just hope that the vil- Photo courtesy said that China was over allegations of sexual misconduct selfpower in the I would fight against want to crime. have lains don’t come out and try creativecommons.org willing to abandon with two women. to destroy the heroes.

flying powers so that I could by Paige Whitney AP Government strives to become a regular class Staff Reporter Students are encouraged to take on the new advanced placement class occuring in room 109

AP Government is a “seventh period class.” It happens after school in Room 109 and is taught by Darrick Hayman. Last year, not enough students signed up for the class and so it was moved to af- ter school; the class was not advertised to many students. “The only way I found out about AP Govern- ment was through a couple of students I knew who were doing independent studies. They sent a survey around asking if people would take the class and so I signed up for it,” said senior Tatiana Weems. Even though not many students are a part of the class this year, there are many reasons one may consider taking it next year. For one, it is an AP class that will show up on high school transcripts. Another reason is it gives students a chance to learn about the inner workings of the United States’ government. “I was interested in how our government works,

I wanted to see how it is supposed to be run com- andpared I thought to how Iour saw government it being run,” had said some Weems. flaws. So Photo by Veronica Walker This class, however, does not replace required Seniors Sydney Gellerson, Michelle Prior, Tatiana Weems, Brandon Reddeman, Jessyca Brubaker, Sean history classes. Perry, Austin Carlton, and Alexander Glaves are hard at work in their AP Government class. “AP Government does not count as Contempo- rary World Issues or Contemporary American Is- a class during the school day if more students sign sues even though everything we are doing cross- up. Reyes. es over, and it is basically the same thing,” said “I think it would have been an interesting class estedWhen in the the field time of rolls politics,” around said for senior students Rosemary to cre- Weems. because it gives an insight on how our country ate their schedules, there is hope that more stu- Currently, there are only nine people enrolled in runs our government and our structures. Also, dents will step up to the challenge and consider the class. AP Government could possibly become it might be a good class for those who are inter- taking AP Government. 4sports Lake Stevens’ wrestlers sign a contract with MTV for their own television series by Sarah Ruiz The 4A “powerhouse” gains national recognition as filming starts for their new show Editor-in-Chief Lake Stevens High School’s 15 minutes, learn some technique, and the pride of being a Viking is Wrestling Team has won award af- team’s accomplishments. drill, [practice] live situations, live often all it takes to keep the team ter award, but now more than just banners, showing off the wrestling matches and then some condition- working hard every day. the Lake Stevens’ community will two district losses in twenty-two ing. Our routine is basically nine “When you walk out on the mat, know it. Recently, the wrestling years,With the five wrestling state titles team and has only al- practices a week between morning you know you have to represent team signed with MTV Productions ready been recognized nationally. and after school, unless a match where you’re from and you already for their own television series. Brent Barnes came to coach have an attitude that you’re going Varity wrestler, junior Kinsey the Vikings’ Wrestling Team in his and we need a little break. I train to demolish the kid you’re wres- Johnson said, “We were all jacked early twenties and has been coach- duringor tournament the regular conflicts wrestling with sea it- tling because in our program, we when we heard there was a pos- ing for twenty-two seasons. His ac- son, which is three months. Then wrestle with the most talented sibility that MTV could be doing a complishments with the team have freestyle starts up maybe a month kids in the state. It’s just an honor show on us. We all started working left highly respected coaches wish- after the school season is over and to represent Lake Stevens and to out to P90X trying to get ripped ing to work with him. that goes basically all year round. have this opportunity to show what for the show, and it was just [excit- The talent of the team is not by The only time I’m really not train- really goes on in our lives because ing] to know that our hard work any means due to luck; the team ing for wrestling is right after the most people have no idea what we was starting to show to the world trains incredibly hard to reach their school season is done, and we get go through on a day-to-day basis. I more.” accomplishments. A rigorous rou- a couple week break at the begin- mean in a two and a half hour prac- Camera crews have already been tine keeps the team in shape and ning of summer,” said Johnson of a tice I can lose eight pounds; it’s the seen on campus, in classrooms and ready for any upcoming matches. Viking’s typical routine. hardest workout of your life,” said at wrestling matches. Thursday, “In the morning before school For the Lake Steven’s wrestlers Johnson. - we run for about twenty min- there is more to wrestling than Surely the hardworking wres- ing the wrestling match for the utes then we do drill moves in the just fame. While the perks of be- December 9, the crew filmed dur wrestling room for about 15 min- With so many state titles and the of supporters were also present at utes. Then we do some technique, wrestlers, for many there is much tling team’s work is paying off. thefirst match. time. An increased number and then we do live situations and moreing filmed that are keeps also exciting them working for the a great start to bringing more well- The match took place in the Lake then maybe some live wrestling. hard. deservedupcoming attention show, the to team the Lake is off Ste to- Stevens gym underneath the many After school we warm up for about The support of the community vens community.

Photos by Samantha Wade (left and center photos) and Sarah Ruiz (right photo) Left: Sophomore Brandon Johnson wrestles a Moses Lake student. Center: MTV crewmen record wrestling match for upcoming docu-series. Right: Senior Jack Reeves [Lake Stevens] wrestler pins down a Moses Lake student for the win.

Leigha Staffenhagen’s love of the Beatles and Converse makes for one unique “Cheerio” One Lake Stevens’ cheerleader isn’t afraid to break the traditional cheerleader mold to create a look all her own by Benny Saack Staff Reporter school,” said Leigha. “I would really like to be a baker and There’s more to her than meets the eye. The thing she is most passionate about is her - Leigha Staffenhagen is like a transformer. dancing, she has been doing it for thirteen years gen. stereotypes by taking AP classes. One and practices regularly. ownThis my extraordinary own bakery,” goal said just Staffenha proves ofStaffenhagen the main things goes against that set cheerleader Something that is truly impres- that this student is a truly interesting sive about this cheerleader is individual. unique personality. “I love her challenging classes. Leigha does a lot outside of school theStaffenhagen Beatles, and apart I kind is of her She is currently in AP too. One of her favorite things to do prance around the halls like English and AP U.S. is cook. History and is involved “I really like to make fried po- Needless to say, Leigha is a with DECA and partici- tatoes. Cooking is great, but I hate an idiot,” said Staffenhagen. - pating in the anual competi- cleaning up” traordinarily outgoing and char- tion. As a student, she goes above Aria Wexler, Leigha’s self pro- ismatic.different sort of person. She is ex and beyond what is required. Her mo- claimed best friend has nothing but Leigha said she tried out for tivation to succeed combined with her good things to say about her. cheer because she wanted to be involvement in school activities is truly “I have been BFF’s with Leigha a bigger part of Lake Stevens High remarkable. - School. Though she is a part of “I like to challenge myself and at- crest in Mrs. Ogden’s class!,” said Wex- DECA, she wanted to expand her lerStaffenhagen since Kindegarten at Hill school involvement to have a well Overall, Leigha is a very well -rounded rounded high school experience. temptThis things ambitious that arestudent’s more difficultgoals ex - individual. Cook, cheerleader and high “I’m a dancer and I thought thantend I’mfar usedbeyond to,” high said school.Staffenhagen. She has achieving student. The only question that dance and cheer went well a passion for cooking and hopes that seems to remain; is there anything together, and I really wanted to take this skill and apply it to Leigha can’t do? to get more involved with our her future career. Photos by Veronica Walker sports5 Snowboarding - not a hobby, a lifestyle US World Cup bid denied Two students make the most of this season’s snow by Paige Whitney by Austin Carlton Staff Reporter Qatar to host 2022 Cup Staff Reporter Farmer. Farmer and Lavering Turns out U.S. soccer fans will have to wait until pride themselves on being at least 2026 before they get another chance to host huge risk takers. They never hesitate to perform intense the world’s largest cup dedicated to the world’s most stunts. popular sport. On December 2, 2010, many U.S. soccer “My favorite is a double fans felt World Cup 2022 was snatched away after the small gulf country of Qatar was announced to be the are no rules ‘cept when city host of the 2022 World Cup. The U.S. bid for the cup backflip,”hall kicks said you Farmer, out during “There an was backed by big names such as Morgan Freemam urban sesh.” In snowboard language, “sesh” means for and Bill Clinton. session. - These two impressive ple supporting the bid,” said junior Sydney Peterson. young men put their life into The“I am supportsurprised of to thesehear of famous so many Americans high-profile shows peo snowboarding and see it the growth and support of professional soccer in this Photo courtesy of Benjamin Farmer more than a sport to do on country. Senior Ryan Lavering (left) and junior Benjamin Farmer (right) the weekends. gear up for a day on the slopes. “It makes me look cool. The bid included the proposed use of stadiums in Just kidding ‘cause it’s really Every winter students a video game but has turned fun, duh. You don’t have a Denver, Houston, Indianapolis, Kansas City, Los An- gear up for the upcom- into a lifestyle. They snow- coach ruling your life. You do 19geles different Miami, cities:Nashville, Atlanta, New Baltimore, York City, Boston, Philadelphia, Dallas, ing snowboarding season. board anywhere they can. what you want and how you Phoenix, San Diego, Seattle, Tampa and Washington Snowboarding has become a However, they prefer some want do it,” said Farmer. D.C. common hobby at Lake Ste- places over others. Lavering added, “Snow- vens High School. “Steven’s Pass is the great- boarding is about friends, The announcement that the U.S. had its bid denied However, for senior Ryan est place on earth. Baker is new tricks, blacking out a Lavering and junior Benja- perty cute too. Oh and Ben’s few times a day trying to be the sign of the U.S.’s coming of age in the world of min Farmer, it is more than a backyard. Booya!” said La- do a 720, Ben blowing up soccer.was a significant blow to those who wanted this bid to hobby. vering. his spleen, slashing powder, Though the U.S. has hosted one FIFA World Cup “I was like 12 when I start- These two boarders have sticking your tongue on lift in 1994, many feel that the U.S. soccer program has ed. We got a game called Am- also met their fair share of polls, laughing, having ev- improved greatly since then and that if given another ped for Christmas. It made famous snowboarders. erything possible go wrong me want to be on snow, and “Aaron Brittner was the but not caring ‘cause you’re chance, the U.S. could truly come to except the sport, then my brother was a huge snowboarding, but most of which has been hit and miss in the country for so long. were super nervous. I think all being away from every- Regardless, of U.S. fans’ feelings on Qatar’s winning Lavering also started in a firstI said, one ‘You I met.are really Me and cool’ Ben or thing.” of the bid, their winning marks a milestone for the influence,”similar way. said Farmer. something like that. I’ve met Although they have both “Amped kind of intro- billions more since him,” said been injured, they continue to get the chance to host a world cup. Qatar’s bid was duced me to the sport. Then Lavering. to pursue the sport and per- I got one of them little plas- Lavering and Farmer are fect their skills. comprisedcup as they of are plans to befor thenew first stadiums Middle and Eastern accommoda nation- tic snowboards from Target, so dedicated to boarding, Farmer and Lavering have tions for the world’s soccer fans that would no doubt and I’d go to my cabin and they don’t even need snow. an infatuation with snow- spend days just building little This type of boarding is called boarding that will always be Qatar has requested that they host the cup in a winter jumps and doing little 180’s “jibbing”. Jibbing is used as a a part of their winter season monthflock to as see opposed their to national summer teams as per compete. usual, due Recently to the and things. Then I started replacement when there isn’t and a permanent part of their extreme summer heat which can exceed temperatures riding at Steven’s and that is any snow available. lives. As these two continue basically where my life be- “Jibbing is riding on any- with their passion of snow- of 105°F. gan,” said Lavering. thing that isn’t snow. It is boarding, many students are Russia was also announced on December 2nd to be Their hobby started with also sometimes death,” said sure to follow suit. the host country of the 2018 World cup.

by Sarah Ruiz Girls’ Basketball adds to their winning record Editor and Chief Another winning season will most likely take the team to State for the second year in a row Last Wednesday the Girls’ Varsity Basketball Team played against Jack- teams. The Vikings’ starting line took the court after receiving cheers from son in the Lake Stevens’ gymnasium. The Lady Vikings took to the court the crowd, cheerleaders and mascots. Starting for the Vikings was junior to warm up while listening to music and wearing their matching shoes. Katie Goddard, senior Meghan Warbis, senior Corrine Burke, junior Abigail Fans of the Vikings cheered as the starting line-up was announced for both Molstre and sophomore Brooke Pahukoa. Interestingly enough, both teams had a set of twins on their roster, Brooke and Brittney Pahukoa for Lake and Kaitlyn and Megan McArthur for Jackson.

Gjertsen for Jackson. Gjertsen won possession of the ball for Jackson, but GoddardTaking grabbed the tip-off the ball for from Lake Jackson Stevens and broughtwas Brooke the ball Pahukoadown to Lake’s and Hayley

- side where she scored a basket in the first minute of the quarter. of Whensteals. theA memorable second quarter moment kicked in off,the secondMolstre quarterwas on firewas and when her Brookeaggres Pahukoasion paid wentoff as inshe for won a shot, multiple and reboundsmade it, butand didmanaged not receive to make the a numberbasket because she had taken down her defender, receiving a foul. A long pass at the end of the quarter from senior Mahea Puha to Goddard led to another point, and a score of 25-19, Vikings. Returning from halftime for the Vikings was Burke, Brooke Pahukoa, Warbis, Goddard and senior Kayla Wilson. Burke played a strong game as point guard by playing smart and remembering to the slow the ball. Senior Jolana Ziskovsky kept Jackson at bay with strong defense and by the end of the quarter the score was 35-26.

tough fall, but she made an appearance back in the game; her game did not Photo courtesy of lkstevens.wednet.edu During the fourth quarter Burke had to be helped off the court after a The Girls’ Varsity team’s record as of January 20, 2011 was 15 wins and only remarkable basket after she fought through the Jackson defense to put up two losses. Upcoming games the following Friday could add to the girls’ win- aseem basket to tosuffer bring from the score her previousto 40-30, injury with two either. minutes Brooke left Pahukoato the end scored of the a ning record. game. The end of the game came to a close with a score of 44-32, Vikings. Republicans hope to repair defi cit following recent elections recent following cit defi repair hope to Republicans Economy & Politics Update & Politics Economy months Two ago mid-term elections placed republicans in control of the House With of their Representatives. newfound power and This and the republican takeover are largely in part thanks to the Enough “Take a Already” Tea Party, party of republicans that ap- overstepped have “democrats that prove to attempt an in chamber House the in aloud read Constitution the having on plans Boehner confident pretty “I’m package. stimulus second a launch to attempting on plans Obama President House, the of control losing Despite leadership of republican John Boehner, the right wing plans to take control of the deficit by cutting government control and spending. control cutting government of the deficit by control take wing plans to the right John Boehner, leadership of republican peared in 2009 in response to President Obama’s economic stimulus and health care reform the bill. House Now, is using its power to tax cuts. Bush-era extend to attempt BBC News. to according their constitutional authority,” that jobs going they’re the that for to recognize American our that people and job delivering sure are and make we is that to govern we accord- Obama President said one,” next the for but generation this for just Not century. 21st the for economy competitive a creating are Online. National Review ing to Have you made any New Year’s Resolutions? Year’s New made any you Have “Second semester I would semester “Second guys see more to like sweat- V-neck wearing especially on Logan ers, Ruiz, Ty Peter Merrill, and Nick Partington Majors!” A&E Editor

junior Taytum Kreutzer by Avery Cavazos by Avery

junior Rami Nasr Saturday Night , Live and starred in many The woman who captured the hearts, yet There were many mainstream break-ups in From the shocking outfits at the VMA’s to ceremonies. Most notable was Lady Gaga’s many many Gaga’s Lady was notable Most ceremonies. dress her especially VMA’s, the at outfits surprise Swift also took made of her entirely meat. Taylor stand when she sang “Innocent” in response to Kanye West’s interruption of speech at the and VMA’s stated her that she forgave acceptance him. again, and was the face of 2010 comedy was 88 year-old Betty White, who made an astounding skit on commercials. light-hearted the media including the of shocking San- divorce dra Bullock and her Jesse ex-husband, James, af- ter airs.discovering his many aff Also, the split of Billy Ray Cyrus and Tish Cyrus, Miley Cyrus’ in- be to Tish’s suspected caused by was parents, Michaels. fidelity with Bret splits, 2010 will not be forgotten. heartbreaking “[I’m looking forward to] getting my to] looking forward “[I’m out of the way.” AP tests s Resolutions What are students looking forward to most in 2nd Semester? most to forward looking students are What New Year’ New As the New Year continues onward, people Last artists many year and bands became well Eminem made a comeback with his songs “I’m catchy many made Ke$ha and Perry Katy Pink, award erent diff at statements made also Artists

junior Troy Mateo en take take a look at the past year with all its ups and downs. artists These following. large a gained and known included Bruno Mars, The Set, Ready B.o.B., Trey Songz, Willow Smith and Jason Derulo. Many of these artists had top spots on the MTV’s Top 25 News Songs of 2010; B.o.B. took two spots, at Bruno featuring Mars, #14 on with You” “Nothin’ and #10 “Airplanes” featuring Hayley Williams Paramore. from Not Afraid” and featur- “I Lie,” Love the You Way ing Rihanna. pop songs including Pink’s “Raise Perry’s Your Glass,” “Teenage Dream” and We Who Are “We “Fireworks” Drug,” my is Love “Your and Ke$ha’s and “Tik Tok.” Are”

Reviewing the pop culture from 2010 from pop the culture Reviewing Traveling back in time Traveling

Top T Top 10. Erase Miley Cyrus from existence 9. Create MySpaceBookTublr 8. Don’t go to prison…again 7. Become the Master of Disguise be the very best Pokemon trainer 6. To cent eagle a magnifi 5. Tame 4. Not get stuck in limbo 3. Get my Dark Mark removed 2. Accept senioritis 1. SURVIVE “[I’m looking forward to] better better to] looking forward “[I’m challenges.” classes and more focus 6 7 JAN pg. 7 focus Staff Reporter photos by Veronica Walker and Courtney Jardin and Courtney Walker Veronica by photos by Connor Wilson “[We’re looking forward to] school to] looking forward “[We’re sports” and spring almost being over seniors Alexis D’Souza & Meghan Warbis “[We’re looking “[We’re to] forward new schedules and start grades how over!” Staff Reporter by Hailey Nobach by Hailey Nobach Staff Reporter by Michelle Bennett - senior Mariah Eceves Mariah senior - - sophomore Julie Moore - sophomore Matt Browder - sophomore Ramon Granda - sophomore Jessica Thornock

sophomores

Malory Gibson &

Porscha Dacoscos

“[I want to] get fit for track. [It’s going] good.

“Be a better person. So far so good. [I’ve] been “[I’m wanting to] get through college, get good

“[I want to] watch as many zombie movies as [I] as movies zombie many as watch to] want “[I “[ I want to] quit bad habits. [It’s going] good

going to] work out and run a lot.” work going to] Kinda, sorta, in a way trying to lose weight. [I’m

kind to everybody.” kind to grades, [and] hopefully pass.” hopefully [and] grades,

jeans as [I] can. [I] haven’t started yet.” started jeans as [I] can. [I] haven’t can and to get erentas pairsmany diff of skinny

are] lots of temptations.” lots are] so far. [I] haven’t done anything bad yet [but there [but there bad yet done anything [I] haven’t so far.

Republicans hope to repair defi cit following recent elections recent following cit defi repair hope to Republicans Despite losing control of the House, President Obama plans on attempting to launch a second stimulus package. “I’m pretty confident pretty “I’m package. stimulus second a launch to attempting on plans Obama President House, the of control losing Despite

This and the republican takeover are largely in part thanks to the Enough “Take a Already” Tea Party, party of republicans that ap- overstepped have “democrats that prove to attempt an in chamber House the in aloud read Constitution the having on plans Boehner Two months Two ago mid-term elections placed republicans in control of the House With of their Representatives. newfound power and

Economy & Politics Update & Politics Economy Online. National Review ing to are creating a competitive economy for the 21st century. Not just for this generation but for the next one,” said President Obama accord- Obama President said one,” next the for but generation this for just Not century. 21st the for economy competitive a creating are their constitutional authority,” according to BBC News. to according their constitutional authority,” that jobs going they’re the that for to recognize American our that people and job delivering sure are and make we is that to govern we

peared peared in 2009 in response to President Obama’s economic stimulus and health care reform the bill. House Now, is using its power to tax cuts. Bush-era extend to attempt leadership of republican John Boehner, the right wing plans to take control of the deficit by cutting government control and spending. control cutting government of the deficit by control take wing plans to the right John Boehner, leadership of republican Have you made any New Year’s Resolutions? Year’s New made any you Have What are students looking forward to most in 2nd Semester? most to forward looking students are What 8opinion One girl tackles two controversial pop culture discussions Plastic body parts take it too far by Hailey Nobach TV is stealing our innocence Staff Reporter Nose jobs, lipo- but that does not sound appealing to Who would have thought televisions would evolve from antennas and suction, face lifts me in any way, shape or form. VCR’s to televisions that can be hung on the wall and including a remote to and Botox injec- Then there are always the risks that change the channel? Technological advancements continue to impress many, tions are just accompany cosmetic surgery. Patients but these new and improved objects raise a new problem. a few of the take the chance of blood clots, stroke Casper the Friendly Ghost, the Flintstones, and Yogi the Bear were chil- many proce- or sometimes even death, and these dren’s favorites from the 50’s to the 70’s. The thing that all these shows had dures peo- are just a few of the many dangers. Of in common was innocence. ple undergo course, don’t take my word for it. Tune No one heard sexual comments, cuss words or alcohol references. Now to be consid- into any show, such as Dr. 90210, to viewers must be careful about what may or may not come on TV. Take the ered “beau- get some vivid scenes as to what these Burger King ad, “Square Butts,” for an example. It shows the Burger “King” tiful” in society. Don’t get me Twenty-seven percent of both men tight short dresses, shaking their wrong, I like to look good in public and peopleand woman inflict agesupon 18-24 themselves. have already walkingbutts around as if with they diff were erent in a womenmodern in maintain my appearance, but the pain had cosmetic surgery according to the rap music video. Kids at such a that some people go through, and the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic prices that they pay are ridiculous in and that commercial is portraying my opinion. Is it really worth having to and young suggesting age are the influenced way kids should easily, dance and act, which is rather inappro- be drugged, knocked out, and having a ing of the words “need” and “want.” It Surgery. The human race has definitely priate in my opinion. knife cut your skin open just to be bet- would not surprise me if in the years lost sight of the diff erence in the mean- However, kids are not the only victims ter looking, according to the public? ahead the age of cosmetic surgery here; I have found myself appalled at some Take a face lift for example, ac- starts to get younger and younger. of the things that I see on television. On cording to American Society for Aes- Everyday people fall for the words MTV they were advertising a new show thetic Plastic Surgery, the average “look like this today” and before and called Balls Out Comedy. Of course with cost would be around $6,298 and the after pictures advertised on TV, ra- the name they felt the need to show a recovery time is two to three weeks. dio or magazines. These advertise- boy walking around with his “private First, the surgeon makes incisions be- ments try to make people think that part” hanging out. Even though it was low the neck and around the hairline, blurred out, it was still unbelievable to and then separates the skin from the so much better. The world today has see this on TV. I wish there were more fat and muscles. He or she then cuts withmade thesemost “quick”of us believe fixes that life couldwe have be shows that we could watch without or suctions the fat from the face, then to have perfect hair, skin and bodies, having our jaws drop at what we replaces the skin back on the face with pretty much perfect everything in or- see or hear. What happened to the stitches. Now, I don’t know about you, innocence?

der to fit in.

Rants and Raves... The complaints and compliments of the Valhalla staff

Dear Eminem, “ I enjoy your music, I re- Last week was a very busy week, but I needed a

ally do. Songs such as “I’m Not Afraid”, “Cinderella Man”, and mall. This led me to look online where I ended up buying “Like Toy Soldiers” have claimed newthe purse purse, of and my Idreams definitely with didn’t the click have of time a button! to go toIf youthe a permanent place in my heart. “ ask me, online shopping is the best invention ever. No sit- That being said. . .”Love the Way

“You Lie”. What on earth were “Rave one click and it’s on its way, simple as that! you thinking? This song is outra- ting in traffic, no having to elbow peopleby in Hailey your way., Nobach just geously awful. Every time I hear this song on the radio, I change Staff Reporter the station, violently. I cannot stress this enough, that is NOT What’s with embarrassing parents these

Rant why they call it a windowpane. days? Everyday I come to school or talk to my

by Riley Fraser friends about an embarrassing moment that hap- Staff Reporter pened because of my parents. Like Sunday for ex- ample, we went to Taco Bell to grab a quick lunch

“on the go; we roll up to the drive-thru window, and my stepdad hands the cashier his credit card. As the cashier closes the window to charge the card, My AP Art and U.S. History teacher amazes me. I can’t get “ I catch a glimpse of the cashier’s face. My jaw

over how organized he is, and every day his organization dropped and I thought out loud, “He has pretty shocks me. Perhaps I am so impressed because my lack of or- eyes.” So I mind my business, answer a text and as the cashier returns my stepdad’s card I hear, “My daughter thinks you have pretty eyes.” I wanted to “ isganization incredible. has He constantly has a place made for every finding single one paper,assignment book anddif- “ melt into the upholstery of the car and disappear. ficult, but his ability to keep track of hundreds of documents My stepdad added to my humiliation by asking, is remarkable and the fact he so seemlessly organizes his “So do you go to Lake Stevens High School?” As materialcomputer is file. a profound The amount testament of material to his in committment both these classes to his it turned out he graduated last year, so he would Rave by Sarah Ruiz have had no idea who I was (thankfully). The only classes. Mr. Talley, my hat’s off to you. Editor-in-Chief way it could have been more embarrassing would

be if he had actually seen me. Needless to say I’ll be

Rant avoiding that Taco Bell like the plague. by Avery Cavazos

the Valhalla Staff A&E Editor Editorial Board: Sarah Ruiz: Editor-in-Chief, Feature Editor Staff Reporters: “ Alicia Terry: Design Editor, Focus Editor Austin Carlton Floral print is NOT dead and buried with your Kaylynn Tobias: Business Manager Riley Fraser grandmother’s 1950’s vintage curtains. I personally be- Avery Cavazos: A&E Editor Tatum McLeod Hailey Nobach Isabel Kowacz: Opinion Editor and my weird obsession with old lady clothes, but I really Hannah Bartow: Sports Editor Jennifer Rojas Samantha Wade: News Editor Benny Saack lieve floral print is a necessity. Now maybe this is just me Paige Whitney “every day of the week. If I had it my way, I would have one Photographers: Connor Wilson dofor loveevery my day floral of theprint month. dresses; And I havefor males, one for argyle, practically obvi- Courtney Jardin Michelle Bennett Veronica Walker Advisor: Julie Henggeler Rave ously isn’t out of style either. by Isabel Kowacz Opinion Editor opinion9 by Jennifer Rojas Old enough for war, but too young for alcohol? Staff Reporter People are questioning whether or not the government is fair about age restrictions Why is it that people have to not allowed to drink. I think that if people can People shouldn’t have to wait until they are be 21 years old to drink, but to vote they should have a say in whether or not 21 years old to drink because if you can join the be in the army they can be as they should be drinking. army when you are as young as 18 then stu- young as 18 years old? I ask If people have the choice of deciding to hold dents should have the choice whether to drink myself if this makes any or not at that same age. sense, and no it doesn’t; try then why can’t they have that same choice Imagine not being able to make your own it’s all nonsense. awhen gun itin comes their tohands alcohol? and fight for their coun- choices, but having others make them for you, People are al- Those who are enlisted in the army demon- how would you feel? Don’t let others make lowed to and encour- strate that they are mature enough to make very the choices. No one knows when they will die aged to join the army, risky decisions. Enlisting in the army provides it could be today, tomorrow or in a month or responsibility for many. I think that respon- two. That’s why I think it’s important to do ev- sibility is key to making good choices. For ex- erything you want to do before that day comes. whereallowed they to go fight have for atheir drink country with in friends. wars Those who want to join the army should, but withWhen a turning significant 18 yearschance old, of dying,people but suddenly aren’t for their country, then it shows that they can be those who want to drink when 18 should also be become “adults”, earning the right to make their ampleresponsible if people for aremaking responsible the choice enough whether to fight to allowed to. I believe that if you are responsible, own decisions. drink or not. then you can always make your own choices. Being able to smoke, own a gun, consent to Let’s be realistic, not everyone follows the If teens are responsible enough to join the sex, have a child, and die for one’s country on rules. Now-a-days when teens are told not to army, then they can be responsible with many do something, it’s like you’re telling them to go other things. For example moving out of their ple can do at the age of 18. That’s why I wonder do it. Teens don’t like it when they are prohibit- houses and being on their own. If they can do thewhy battlefield it is that people are some who of are the capable things of that making peo- ed from doing anything, so they decide to rebel that then they can make any choice as long as many decisions, like voting at the age of 18, are against the things they aren’t allowed to do. they make the right ones. Starting school later, the best idea since sliced bread Hello Vikings, Students might rather give up late starts than get up early by Tatum McCleod Staff Reporter It seems just a while ago that I was sitting at home at The most dreadful part of my day is when my alarm clock awakens me from a one in the afternoon, right after waking up and drink- deep slumber at the hour of 6 a.m. I am not a morning person and thrive in the ing hot cocoa during winter break. When I returned to night life. Unfortunately, school starts bright and early at 7:35 a.m., well be- school my mind seemed to be dragging, most likely still fore I am ever willing to be function, let alone learn. somewhere tangled in my sheets, asleep. However, my School should start later. Need I say more? mind had to quickly jump back into the school mode in I can be very irritable in the early hours of the day and am usually run- ning late to class. Finals are bogus, completely unnecessary in our high If school started later in the day, students would be less likely to make 1st orderschool to world. brace I for would the finalslove to that wave loomed my magic ahead. wand and and 2nd period their siesta time. Also, students would be more likely to show

school year is divided into two parts, semester one and Doctors say that teens should be getting a little over nine hours of sleep a night. But let’s be foreversemester banish two. Asthe if abomination it is not enough teachers to have call to finals. work Our for honest, who goes to bed at 9 p.m. these days? With the immense amounts of homework I am nine months of the year, we are teased with a winter up to school on time or even show up to school in the first place! break before the end of semester one, and then bru- given, going to bed at a decent hour is near impossible. Finally, studies show that teenagers peak in their circadian arousal (a psychology term) in the afternoon, around 11 p.m. Teenager’s thinking is at its sharpest and our memory is most accurate at this late hour. tallyafter putwe throughcome back the from horror break, of finals. but we all know how quicklyI do understanda month goes that by finalsduring are school, almost and four prepara- weeks tions often starts much earlier than that. Many of us higher chance of getting better grades because I would be more awake. struggle as it is to come back after having two glorious IfThe school serotonin started levels later in and teenagers first period don’t didn’t kick instart until until 11 afterp.m. which8 a.m., induces then I would sleep. haveAnd ita doesn’t evaporate until 8 a.m. which is when teens feel more awake. is torturous. The kinks in our necks from shoving our If teachers and the school board wants us, their students, to perform better in class, then the weeksnoses into off , booksand having for hours finals is certainlyeven a month not the after way break we time that school starts should be moved to later in the morning. should have to come back to school and prepare for se- mester two. Instead of having to transition from relaxing winter days to hump-busting workloads, we should be able to the year. Or there is always the option of completely Get Focused come back and wait to have finals till the very end of that creates large scale panic to establish what we have on Your Studies eliminatinglearned. For finals. one, it I is see too no risky. need Many for a students four-page work test Choose from over 30 options of study from totally bomb it. This results in a poor grade for this stu- American Studies to Biology and Education. harddent. throughNo one’s the grade entire should semester depend and solely take the on finalone test. and No test should have the power to so radically change a person’s grade. need for such a quizzical and time consuming chal- lengeI vote of our to knowledge. do away with I am finals. tired Thereof working is simply hard for no the school year only to have to up my studying time by from helpful tools of the learning process to a resented nearlyplenum 100 of knowledge percent to that study I would for finals. rather Text throw books in the go recycling bin along with my soda pop cans. The people in charge should gift their students the rible testing, students would be able to get more out eliminationof their school of finals. year. Think By ridding of all our the lives time of wasted the hor- in Join us for a housing tour! classes studying for material we have already learned. Wouldn’t it be more productive and rewarding to in- January 26, 4:00 - 5:00 p.m. UW Welcome Center then we should have only one at the very end of the school year. America is falling behind on the interna- stead teach us more? If finals are somehow necessary, 425.352.5000 | www.uwb.edu tional academic scale, and though I am not sure there Get Focused on Your Future at all. is a correlation, I blame finals, even if it is not its fault -Editor-in-Chief 10a&e Opposing Viewpoints: A look at Taylor Swift’s talent by Samantha Wade by Avery Cavazos A waste of the airwaves News Editor A&E Editor An inspirational pop goddess People all around the country same thing. Every song is about a The 21 year-old singing sensation, Swift put herself in that situation and need to stop drinking the Taylor boy, whether she has broken up with Taylor Swift, has gone through many thought about what she would do. Swift Kool-Aid. Swift is made out to one or just fallen in love; the lyrics be much more than she truly is. are all the same. These songs come idolize and border on adoration, and regards to regrets in life, “I’ve just had When the young pop-country star from a girl who claims girls don’t therechanges are in others the past who five dislike years. her Many and to realizeShe exemplifies that what her might wisdom have been with need a boyfriend to be happy. Really, border on exasperation. is imaginary, and it’s this beautiful il- 2006, everyone was in awe. Swift? It seems to me that her songs Many people consider her music lusion of how it could have been if you firstThe walked then 17 onto year-old the music was anscene inspi in- are saying otherwise. to be repetitive, but that is simply be- had just done this right . . . But things ration to deranged teens in America Not only did Swift prove she can’t cause they have the emotional range don’t line up and boys don’t like you who had big dreams. Swift was the sing in public at the 2010 Grammys, of a rock. Her break-out song, “Tear- and you mess up for a reason,” said poster child for innocence and good - drops on my Guitar” is about a guy Swift according to an interview with old family values. er creativity she had left. When she who she cared about so much that she Seventeen magazine. Recently it seems that Swift has butsang she “You’re has also not finallySorry” lostat the whatev 2010 would sit in class everyday and listen Taylor Swift has not only captured been losing her family values. For VMA’s, the lyrics sounded awfully to him talk, about another girl. the hearts of countless teenage girls, instance, this year many spent their close to the song “Apologize” by One Sophomore Carina Elston said, “I but she has also reached out to a Thanksgiving dinners with their Republic. listen to death metal, and I younger audience. Taylor Swift was inspirational in still listen to Taylor Swift,” “I like Taylor Swift be- out to Brooklyn to spend time with the beginning, and I admit some of showing Swift’s ability to cause her music makes me families;her new however, beau, Jake the pop star flew her songs are fun to appeal to a larger audi- wanna dance,” said pre- Gyllenhaal. blast in the car, but ence. Swift also receives let’s stop trying to Swift also admits McManus from Lake Ste- mad props from make her out to be that the idea of her song vensschooler, with five a smile. year-old Joely some for the fact that something she’s not. “Speak Now” came from No matter what she sings she writes all of her Swift is just another a real-life situation, in about, there is no doubt she own songs. But let’s country star, she is which her friend was touches the hearts of count- be honest, all the not the Dalai Lama or less girls. songs are about the the next Elvis Presley. love getting married; Photos courtesy of creativecommons.org confronted with her first

by Alicia Terry Dead Space 2: Sounds Around the Sound Design Editor Ra Ra Riot, an American indie rock band, is coming to Seattle. They have a fun, funky vibe that ev- Journey deep into the by Riley Fraser eryone can enjoy, especially Northwest natives. Fans of Passion Pit, The Shins or Vampire Weekend will want to see these New Yorkers at Neumos on Thursday, January 27th at 8 p.m. dark secrets of space Staff Reporter 1990’s hit band Cake is making their comeback! You may remember hearing that they came to Seattle for the 2010 Deck the Hall Ball, and they’re on their way back for a show at the Moore Theater at 8 p.m. Survival horror games have created a standard, on February 12th. The American alternative rock band from Sacramento, California just came out with a almost conformist formula for their genre: aliens, new album, titled Showroom of Compassion, that is worth listening to. If you’re interested in Weezer, The zombies or demons are after you; you’re all alone, Strokes or Tom Petty, check out their new album or go see them at the Moore! On February 16th, Ke$ha is coming to the Showbox Sodo. Ke$ha has cited artists such as Madonna, Debbie Harry, Queen, Johnny Cash, Aaron Neville, Bob Dylan and Beastie Boys andthis plotline you must can killbe very the cliché. aforementioned fiends. has a fun-loving sound that is great to dance to, or to rock out to in your car. If Lady Gaga, Cascada and sdfasdfasfasfsdfasdfasd photo by CombinedHowever, with one the game sci-fi stands element out of in outer this crowd,space, Cobra Starship are on your iPod, you would love seeing this American pop singer/songwriteras musical influences at 7 p.m.and with its disturbingly twisted visuals, grippingly at the Sodo. detailed story and unique combat system that earned it the title of 2008 Game of the Year. This January, gamers will once again follow the horri- fying adventures of Isaac Clarke in Dead Space 2 for the Xbox360, Playstation 3 and PC. years after engineer Isaac Clarke escaped the murderousFollowing onslaught the events of ofthe the necromorphs, first game, threeIsaac Photo courtesy of creativecommons.org - cated on one of Saturn’s moons. Haunted by his findstraumatic himself ordeal on the aboard Sprawl, the aUSG space Ishimura station, and lo by Benny Saack Echoreason impresses Lake Stevens again Staff Reporter suddenly thrown back into the nightmare as the sufferingalien infection from arrives a lethal onboard form of the dementia, station, Isaacbegin is- The release of their new album, Observations, is sure to please ning round two of his struggle against the alien David Whitlock, an alumnus Lake Stevens community in general, in an album…It feels and sounds like menace. of Lake Stevens High School and but Whitlock also considers the al- a real rock record. It was so strange Dead Space 2 will feature a broader storyline, 2010 Prom King, has soared to new bum a great personal success, and to me to see a barcode on the back with larger environments, new weapons and an heights by getting his band out of and shrink wrap over the case,” said the garage. The band, Echoreason, “To me, it’s really a trip to be Whitlock. irritating silent protagonist persona and use dia- overall a fulfilling experience. Echoreason is sure to survive improvedlogue and storyprotagonist. to relay Isaac the plot will and finally his personalditch the- Observations. The album transcends place; as Eric Krakora’s band 4orth- past the college years. Whitlock thehas normsjust released of generic its first- music ever by CD, in- comingplaying waswith the these band guys I looked in the up first to stated that the next album will be ity. corporating an edgy progressive back when I started playing at all in released on a label, and they have Isaac will also not be outmatched against his sound with impressive talent. What seventh grade. I never would have an extensive tour of the West Coast enemies as before; the game developers have de- really makes the album is the guitar. guessed I’d now be working with planned for the summer. signed the game to have moments of pacing where When Whitlock gets into his groove, these guys. Observations is really “This summer we’re planning Isaac is in control of the battle and is the superior he transforms into an inexorable more than I could’ve ever hoped for a tour that starts in Seattle, goes threat to balance out the familiar moments of vul- dynamo of the fret board. down the West Coast through Cali- “The [song] closer “Observa- fornia and Nevada, through Ari- One new feature that is sure to excite gamers tions From Earth” deals particu- zona and New Mexico and ends up nerabilityis the new and multiplayer panic from option, the first where game. gamers can larly with one more serious issue in Houston, Texas. I think the band I’ve struggled with coming from will survive through college for sure together to accomplish a mission, or as necro- Lake Stevens; losing a friend from my graduating class and having a league than anything any of us have play online as either security officers, who work- few more currently struggle from donebecause before,” this project said Whitlock. is in a different pleting the mission. drug problems. If you pull the disc So who knows? Maybe we will morphs, who try to stop the officers from com- out from the CD tray, underneath it someday see the name Echoreason est chapter in the Dead Space saga, and should reads that the album is dedicated to in lights. Fans of the first game are sure to enjoy the new Tyler [Reside],” said Whitlock. for the Sprawl. Not only is it a big deal for the Photo art courtesy of David Whitlock prepare for tomorrow when the shuttle takes off features11 After 33 years at Lake Stevens High School, Mr. Berg says gooodbye by Riley Fraser Retiring after a long career at Lake Stevens, Mr. Berg relives his life at the high school Staff Reporter Steven Berg has been an irreplaceable ele- “I have seen an incredible variety of pretty positive, with very few negatives. It’s a ment of Lake Stevens High School for 33 years students and witnessed the positive nature good way to go out, on your own terms, know- and has been a beloved and inspirational of our students,” explained Berg. “It’s all been ing you have no regrets.” teacher to many. He has taught an impressive In addition to his satisfaction with his teach- repertoire of classes, coached many of our ing career, Berg also believes he is leaving the sports teams, and has worked his way into school in good condition. It is a popular out- the hearts and minds of his students. Now, Mr. look in society today that the status of schools Berg’s long and wonderful journey is coming and education has been getting progressively to a close. At the end of this year, Mr. Berg will worse. Mr. Berg, however, has experienced the be retiring. “I really enjoy the classes I teach now, and I strongly disagrees with this negative view- enjoy teaching,” said Berg. “But there are also educationalpoint. system evolve first-hand, and he many other things I want to do.” “I believe that no matter what all the ar- By looking at Berg’s list of classes he has ticles and national publications say, educa- taught over the years, one can begin to un- tion is better now,” claims Berg. “Teachers are derstand how long he has been a part of this better now, students care just as much now. school. He is currently teaching math and psy- The quality of students and teaching is not go- chology, but his educational repertoire has ing down. I’m probably the minority opinion included keyboarding, law, accounting, career here, but at least here at Lake Stevens, things planning, and other classes that no longer have gotten progressively better.” After ending his career on such a posi- school, Berg was an assistant coach for the tive note, Mr. Berg has big plans for his retire- exist.football For team, the firstand was20 years head ofcoach his oftime the at girl’s the ment. He has been the host for many foreign basketball team for 25 years. exchange students over the years. For his “He is fairly famous here, and he will leave post-retirement plans, he will be taking his a big hole when he leaves,” said fellow teacher wife on trips throughout the world, using the Larry Palmer, who coached the varsity basket- international guests of his past as tour guides. ball team alongside Berg. “He didn’t just treat They will begin their trip this summer by go- kids as chess pieces or as vehicles to win a ing to Norway and then other Scandinavian game. He engaged with the kids on a personal countries. level, even long after they graduated.” “I worry that being retired is going to After three decades of connecting with both Photo by Courtney Jardin be more of an adjustment than I want it to academic and athletic students, it’s safe to say Mr. Berg will say goodbye to Lake Stevens High School be,” remarked Berg, “but then again, sitting on this year. 33 years of teaching has left Berg with many that Mr. Berg has seen this school go through fond memories of his students, co-workers and com- the beach of a Greek Isle, I think I’ll be able to many changes over the years. munity. make the adjustment alright.”

by Isabel Kowacz Forensics Class: Breeding the next batch of CSI stars Opinion Editor Students taking this course offered at Lake Stevens High School learn how to work a crime scene to catch perpetrators The Forensics class at LSHS of- mester. to others. Since it was introduced, So if you’re looking for a science fers students a hand’s on experi- “We usually take a couple days the popularity has increased. credit, but want a class that will ence while giving science an inter- of notes and then go into a crime “It’s a year-long class, and the keep you entertained, consider esting twist. scene, just like on TV, with a vic- semesters are stand alone; it’s just signing up for forensics. “I started teaching Forensics to tim, suspects and motives,” said a really fun class,” said Ingraham. “Do it! ‘Cause it’s pretty sweet,” get more students to take a sci- senior Tyler Follett. Apart from the moderate work- said Follett. ence a class,” said forensics teach- The crime scenes are generally load and the real-life application, er Bob Ingraham. the students’ favorite aspect in the crime scenes are the highlight of The curriculum focuses around curriculum because they are very the course. There are many crime real-life crime scenes and scenar- interactive. scenes throughout the semesters ios in which the students solve a “I like the crime scenes; they’re and students have their favorites. crime based on what they have pretty fun. [Ingraham] lays out the “Currently we’re doing a victim learned in class. The crimes com- crime scene and you get to solve it; killed with a baseball bat, but the bine new and old skills which the he doesn’t really hold your hand,” fake suicide one, that was kind of students learn throughout the se- said Follett. cool,” said Follett. Follett and Mr. Ingraham rec- worlkload too hard to handle, al- ommend this class to others be- thoughMany it students isn’t exactly do not an “easy-A”find the cause it’s an enjoyable way to get class students won’t feel over- whelmed. “I haven’t taken it, but it seems “I’d say the homework is some- inlike that a good final class science for kidscredit. who want where between biology and chem- a more real[istic] science class. istry, a little bit more than biology I’ve seen the crime scene they do Photo by Sarah Ruiz but a little less than chemistry,” on they grass, and it looks like it Students learn the science fingerprinting iden- said Ingraham. would be a fun,” said junior Syd- tification. No one person has the same finger- At the root of the class are the ney Peterson. prints. fundamentals of a career in crime scene investigation and law. “I hope students take away an appreciation for science, good problem solving skills and an understanding of law and crime labs,” said Ingraham. Photo by Courtney Jardin Just because the class is aca- Students in Mr. Ingraham’s Forensics class demic at the core doesn’t mean it assess a crime scene. In this incident, the is not enjoyable; in fact, most stu- “victim” was found dead in a shed along with dents that take the class suggest it a baseball bat. 12features AP Psychology making life hard? by Paige Whitney Staff Reporter by Tatum McCleod Scholarships Imagine taking six AP classes in one semester Staff Reporter ucation. If I score well enough on the AP is plenty to accomplish. For seniors, that includes exams, I will get college credits and not applyingThe year for of college 2011 scholarships.has finally arrived and there have to pay as much for college,” said Alex Johnson. ishing a college application. However, the journey When he isn’t doing homework, Alexan- to Acollege great reliefis not forover. many Scholarships seniors comes are a after big part fin- der has time to do other things. of attending college because they help pay for col- “I run, play guitar and participate in Key lege tuition. Ms. LaFortune in the Career Center, Club. [I] plan on doing track once it starts up. I don’t have a job, but [I] am looking for to students looking for scholarships. one,” said Alexander. located“I am nextopen to whenever the Counseling students Center, need offto seeers me.help He even claims to have more free time Just come in and I will help,” said Ms. Lafortune. than he did his sophomore year. “He must be a master of time manage- such as the Lions Club Scholarship and the Ren- ment or not sleep,” said junior Sarah Fos- shaw Scholarship. ter. Lake Stevens off ers many local scholarships A misconception about scholarships is that they Photo by Veronica Walker Alexander chose a journey not every Junior Alex Johnson studies hard for an upcoming test student would take. are all related to grade point average. However, in one of his many AP classes. Studying is oft en necces- “Personally, I would never attempt to do there are scholarships for almost anybody. sary to be ready for the grueling work load of Advanced “There are so many scholarships. For example, Placement. the same thing, but I think he is fully capa- ble of doing it,” said junior Andrei Arevalo. if you are Catholic, there are many Catholic Schol- When taking AP classes, most people test Alexander chose to stay at the high arships. There are even scholarships for being the waters and take one or two, but junior school instead of doing Running Start for left-handed!” said Ms. Lafortune. many reasons. Students should get started on applying as soon consumed his entire schedule. “I chose AP over Running Start because as possible because scholarships are snatched AlexanderThis year, Johnson Alexander dove in is head currently first and en- it’s cheaper, the credits are more transfer- up quickly, especially if they are local. Students rolled in AP Art History, AP Psychology, AP able, AP looks good on applications to col- English, AP Calculus BC, AP Chemistry and leges and [also] so I could stay at the high ships because many go unclaimed. Some websites, AP US History. school with my friends,” said Alexander. shouldprovided also by research the Career all diffCenter, erent are kinds www.fastweb. of scholar- “[My favorite] is Psychology because it’s Alexander is a humble human being. A com and www.thewashboard.org. a fascinating subject,” said Alexander. great characteristic about him is that he If any student is seeking assistance, please visit Alexander is taking all these classes to go Ms. Lafortune in the Career Center. far in the world. “I’d like to do something “Interviews and publicity are silly,” said Alexander.doesn’t strut his stuff . in the field of medicine, psychology, or ed- by Jennifer Rojas A whole new year of trends, tights and graphic tee’s Staff Reporter One student expresses herself through clothes, using every school day as a new opportunity Fashion trends change quickly and often, but for some, keeping up with the every changing fashion tides is tionen like she the knows future where princess to look of England to help add(Kate extra Middleton), flair. In the but fashion Gabriella world has simple. While many have no idea one finds inspiration everywhere from movie stars to influentional wom- about the newest fashion trends, “Tavi! She is a major blogger for all kinds of fashion and she isn’t afraid junior Gabriella Bontrager, is searchedto go crazy long with and patterns hard to and find. colors, she’s real,” said Gabriella. pulling together her next envy-

Gabriella makes a point a coordinatedHigh school one.students have long suff ered from the horrid hours at which worthyof staying outfit. well up to date they must awake. Many sometimes struggle to find a clean outfit let alone on what’s new in the especially if I’m tired or running late, so I just throw on what jumps out at fashion world, and ex- me “Well,and jet,” I just said try Gabriella. to picture my outfit in my head, but that rarely works presses her fashion To Gabriella, fashion is an outlet to express herself. She has a very elec- on a daily basis. “I guess I just Gabriella is not afraid to take chances, and don’t be surprised if she starts dress [how] I feel tricthe newcrazy fashion style and trend. mixes her fashion with diff erent patterns and colors. and I get a lot of my inspiration from my sister actually. She wears pretty daring things,” said Gabriella. Everyone shows his or her own style, but Gabriella doesn’t limit herself to a repeated style everyday; Sophomore she mixes it up. While even the most Nicollette Rindero a dress and tights, Gabriella knows Fashionis raising money Show for Housing Hope for howfashion to take savvyit to the student next level can using pull ac- off cessories. community service and is welcoming you to a Students around school often com- fashion show to help raise money for charity There are some who are envious of Ga- ment on Gabriella’s fashion and outfits. clothes. February 5th, 2011 at Cavelero 5:00 p.m. briella, and wonder where she finds her ionable trends are Forever 21 and H&M. $5 admission, all money goes to Housing Hope “IBontrager’s go to town favorite on the salestores racks,” to find said fash- Ga- briella. Being creative is helpful to Gabriella’s Lake Stevens High School’s student band “Sky Burial” will be playing after the show photo by Veronica Walker fashion conquest, but if she needs inspira-