LIFEMarch edition Boys swim team makes a huge splash By Madison Renz “If there’s an issue on the team, Peng, a junior on the team, the boys Belin. “They’ve [Washington] made The Linn-Mar boys swim team made captains can solve it and try to keep it may not have been able to accomplish us better, they’ve made a lot of people quite the splash at the 2016 District among the swimmers themselves. This winning the meet. With a hurting better and we are thankful to have them swim meet at Coe College on February sometimes works better because a peer shoulder but the motivation to win in our conference and be able to swim 5, winning the district championship telling you to do something may be and be a part of Linn-Mar swimming against them.” title and ending Cedar Rapids Wash- taken better than if it were a coach.” history, Peng was able to push through “Usually not many kids know what his races, despite being in pain. He ington High School’s 53-year district In problem solving, the captains the swim team is so it was good that placed second in both the 50 freestyle winning streak. provide a positive, supportive, and we got some recognition for once,” and the 100 butterfly, easily qualifying healthy environment for all the says Myers of breaking Wash’s win- After winning their first Mississippi for state his third year in a row. Valley Conference title just over a swimmers on the team, which has lead ning streak. week before, the Lions were in high them to great success in the water. “I felt that my swims were With a well-deserved year of win- representative of the phase of training gear going into Saturday’s competition, “The whole team worked hard all ning the Mississippi Valley Conference I was in,” says Peng. “Simply stated, I despite a slight change in location just season and it was about time someone and District titles for the first time, the was complacent with my swims, how- two hours before the meet. The meet brought down Wash,” says Myers. “I’d Linn-Mar boys 2016-17 swimming ever in a broader context, I was over- was moved to Coe College from Linn- say beating Wash was the highlight of season will remain a part of the team’s joyed with the swims of the team as a Mar’s aquatic center due to cold pool the season for most of us.” history and will feed the excitement for temperatures. The pool had to be whole.” the seasons to come. Don Fejfar is a senior swim team drained and refilled after a broken glass Head coach and member and another captain of the incident the week of the competition. District Coach- team. He says he felt the excitement of ing Staff of the “Once we got to MVC and won, the the two previous years of swimming Year recipient motivation just increased more and at districts and a season full of hard Tom Belin de- more,” says Linn-Mar Senior Hogan work finally pay off when the boys scribes the title as Myers. “And I think we were a little won the meet and broke Washington’s well-earned and discouraged [when the meet location streak. Fejfer says that the real excite- well-deserved changed to Coe College] but once we ment leading up to the win came from by the team as saw how nervous everyone else was, the All-Metro swim meet where the a whole, citing we used it to our advantage.” boys first started to get a peek at their the team’s hard Hogan Myers is a member of the successful season’s potential to break work in practices Linn-Mar boys swim team and a three- records. in order to break year state qualifier in the individual “It was exciting the whole way Washington’s 53- 200 freestyle and the 500 freestyle through,” said Fejfar. “At no point did year district title events, having gone to state all four we doubt ourselves or ever really feel streak. years as a member of the team. Myers, defeated [even when Wash was ahead]. “To be the also a captain for the team, is respon- It was just good to know how we fol- best, you have to sible for leading stretches, cheers, and lowed through.” compete against also being a link between the team and Without outstanding swims by Matt the best,” says the coaches. Key Club’s Dance Marathon to be held April 21 By Zoey McDonald opinions. In 2016, the dance marathon friends in creative, yet appropriate This year, Linn-Mar Key Club theme was ‘Neon’ and encouraged costumes. This theme was a majority received a grant of $900 from the Linn-Mar Key Club has held various dancers to dress up in neon while vote and has students excited because Key Club International, which will types of interactive fundraisers, the dancing the night away under strobe of how much they enjoy the back-to- help cover expenses for the dance as most current one being the dance and black lights. Food was also a big school costume dance. well as provide some extra money to marathon. The club’s third dance part of the dance marathon. Students In previous years, t-shirts have been send in a donation to the Children’s marathon will be held on April 21st were welcome to re-energize their sold to participants as another way to Hospital. Many members of Key Club from 8-11 pm in the main gym. All bodies by taking a break from dancing raise more money to donate. This year, are excited as they would like to make Linn-Mar students grades 9-12 are in the gym and stopping for some Key Club will be mixing things up this a great experience and something welcome to join. Admittance is only food in the cafeteria. Other activities by selling neon pink t-shirts and bro to remember for themselves and $10 at the door or is free with the included glow balloons, hula hoops, tanks for $15, which then allows free everyone who plans on participating purchase of a $15 t-shirt prior to the and a photo booth that took pictures of admittance into the dance. They are also in the dance marathon. dance. friends with goofy props. selling glow-in-the-dark wristbands. “This is a great opportunity for The dance marathon may not be “We are hoping for an even bigger Items will be sold in the four-corners Linn-Mar students to come together the most popular dance at Linn-Mar outcome than years before and to of the high school on decided dates. for a fun night and give back to the but it is the most helpful. Each dance raise even more money for the kids,” This year’s activities will also community,” says Alee Bruns, one of marathon raises money that is given says Amani Dewan, Key Club officer. include a photo booth, music, snacks the Linn-Mar Key Club presidents. to the University of Iowa Children’s Dewan further explains that Key Club and refreshments just like previous Everyone is encouraged to come Oncology Center. The money helps is always looking for more sponsors to years. There will also be a poster that and participate in this event on April patients and families with medical help out on donations. attendees get to sign for the Children’s 21st with the aim of having a good bills and other needs. The theme for this year’s dance will Hospital. All of these activities make time while donating to those in need Every year, the theme for the dance be a costume party, similar to the back the overall dance marathon experience at the University of Iowa Children’s is voted on by members of the Linn- -to-school dance, Toga. Students will more enjoyable for participants and Hospital. Get your boogie on! Mar Key Club and based off students’ be encouraged to dress up with their hosts. The Linn-Mar Life Anderson to retire from Linn-Mar By Izzy Nanke excellence is the process,” is a she has gained many things from Mr. Bob Anderson has been favorite quote from Anderson. working with Anderson, even if it with Linn-Mar for the last 22 years, Through this quote, he’s was only for a year. She learned a and is still as enthusiastic about explaining to all that what is done different style of being present in a teaching today as he was when he at Linn-Mar is no easy job. It takes room as well as a different level of first stepped through the doors of hard work, time, and effort, and he expectations. She learned new ways Linn-Mar High School. For the last gives just that. Anderson walks into of expressing musicality, and says 22 years, Anderson has been seen as a class ready to work, every single the drive that Anderson had while a mentor to many, and an inspiration day, and that takes real talent. teaching inspired her. to all. He consistently strives to be Anderson takes his job very Hussey isn’t the only one better, and anyone who’s ever had seriously, and the students of Linn- inspired by Anderson. When asked him in class can say that he won’t Mar now have high standards for his favorite memory of working stop until he gets there. the new director that will be coming with Anderson, piano player Lee Junior Elizabeth Ullrick captures in next year. When Mr. Trent Nguyen got very serious. He talked his personality well saying, “Mr. Buglewicz asked his fourth hour of how he’s never played piano for Anderson has a lot of experience class, Bella Voce, what they wanted a school for longer than three years and a unique way of teaching that to see in the new choir director, at a time, but Anderson convinced makes you love the process it takes the girls replied with, “a strong him and challenged him so much to develop a concert piece and gives leader,” “someone who knows that he’s been with Linn-Mar for you a greater appreciation for what how to effectively run a rehearsal,” the past eight years. you do in class, even if it seems like and even “someone that expects “It’s never exactly the same when teacher and an inspiration to all. He it doesn’t matter.” greatness out of us.” he (Anderson) conducts. He has made everyone feel important, and Many people agree that Anderson These are all aspects of Anderson. so many different ways of doing it that’s something not many teachers has a unique way of teaching, No one can deny he’s a strong and I just follow along because he can do. He will be missed at Linn- and that uniqueness has given the teacher with copious amounts of trusts me to make great decisions. Mar, and he’ll miss Linn-Mar too. Linn-Mar music department the dedication, and that he’s willing to It’s always different and that’s how Says Anderson, “I want students reputation it has today. Anyone work hard to get the perfected end music should be, always different,” to understand that they are in an going into the department knows product. There are no doubt many said Nguyen. environment and school that is that only excellence is allowed, times when rehearsals aren’t the Anderson makes music different. second to none. Their success rests and if they’re not willing to give most fun to be at, but the excellent He makes people feel things through on them to grab the opportunity and that much, he makes it clear where end product makes it all worth it. music, whether it’s through the to urgently apply themselves. Over the exit is. Yes, he can be seen as Linn-Mar’s music department has selection he makes, the dynamics he the last 22 years, I have watched having quite an intense personality, been shaped into a department uses, or the musicality he conducts amazing, talented, wonderful kids but that intenseness all comes from of the highest respect, and every throughout the song. The music grow and become great leaders and the passion that he has for what he student involved is thankful to him produced by Anderson’s choirs I have also grown in how I teach. does. for that. never ceases to amaze people. We’re all in this together. Don’t “Success is the trophy and Ms. Jaclyn Hussey says that Mr. Anderson has been a great miss the opportunity.” Linn-Mar orchestra program excels By Brianna Martin Having started teaching at Linn-Mar talent, a group of musicians known the folks I selected did an amazing Over the years, the orchestra 15 years ago, Reznicow noticed that as The Piano Guys reached out to job so I was excited for them,” says program at the high school has more there was a lack of outside artists Reznicow when they came to town Reznicow. than doubled in numbers. In 2002, and groups brought in to work with for a concert back on September Among the students chosen was when Linn-Mar Orchestra director students. In doing this, students are 22, 2016. The Piano Guys offered Linn-Mar Senior Morgan Francis. Josh Reznicow began teaching, the able to further grow and gain outside an opportunity to have some of the To her, this opportunity was unreal department consisted of about 50- perspectives of expertise. As this is Linn-Mar Orchestra members play and such an honor. 55 stringed instrument players; it very important to Reznicow, he has alongside them at their concert held “I listen to their music all the time currently has about 155. Along with made it one of [his] little missions at the Paramount Theater. and I was super pumped. The whole that, the program has gone from “to bring in professionals all the Having local high schools play experience was so enriching. I one ensemble to three ensembles. time to work with them.” alongside them has been a growing walked into the Paramount Theater The ensembles are broken up into One of the unique things about tradition of The Piano Guys. It and saw them rehearsing and started three different groups; Symphony, Linn-Mar’s orchestra is that some started when they paired up with crying happy tears. It was so cool Philharmonic, and Concert. of the music they play comes and made a video with a high and so much fun to be a part of.” Symphony and Philharmonic are directly from their Lead Director, school ensemble to play one of their Amidst the increase in numbers, both audition-required groups while Reznicow. Starting in 6th grade, he older famous songs, “Beethoven’s 5 talent, and opportunities, the Concert is an un-auditioned group. began taking composition lessons Secrets.” Ever since, countless high orchestra room has been transferred In addition to number growth, with a teacher and continued to do schools have had the privilege of to the music hallway with choir the department has developed some so through high school. By about his playing with The Piano Guys. and band. This came with a very talented musicians. senior year in high school, a piece With this honor, 5 Linn-Mar good amount of upgrades for the “The depth of talent and skill [of that he had written was performed Orchestra members were carefully program such as a new high-tech the students] has really grown so by his school and he had the honor selected to play with The Piano humidifier to keep the instruments we are able to play more advanced of leading them. This love of music Guys at the Paramount Theater. in a balanced humidity to prevent music in all of those ensembles. and writing led him to double major “There was some criteria cracking. It has been noted to be That’s been really exciting and we in Music Ed/String Ed and Music involved. The students had to play very helpful for members as it is have been able to do some really Composition at the University of in tune, memorize the music, and now easier to tune their strings and cool pieces and projects,” says Northern Iowa. have a certain skill level. I paired it their instruments are no longer as Reznicow. Reznicow’s drive, passion and down from there as to who would vulnerable to cracking, which can Even as numbers and talent experience has no doubt led to be mentally able to get on that stage cost hundreds of dollars in repairs. have soared through the years, Linn-Mar’s upstanding orchestra in front of hundreds to thousands This new room will serve as a good the program still lacked one thing reputation. As a result of the of people and not screw up. That tool and resource for further growth according to Reznicow: interactions. orchestra member’s outstanding takes a bit of mental maturity and of the orchestra program. The Linn-Mar Life Paul James named head L-M football coach By Robert Read only players, but the coaches as for our final season as teammates,” Paul James has been named the well to improve the program as said Walton. new head football coach at Linn- a whole. Brown expects to be The Linn-Mar football program Mar High School. James was hired competitive during James’ tenure, appears to be headed in the right after the retirement of Bob Forsyth, as he would with any coach, but direction, and, according to Brown, who had previously held the position really emphasized the importance the right leader is in place. “I think for nine years. James comes of graduation if you step back five minutes ago from Cedar Rapids Washington and high participation numbers and ask ‘who’s the one coach in High School, where he had spent among players. He also emphasized this area, and maybe the state, that the previous 41 years in a variety of preparing student-athletes for life. would be the best coach you could roles. “Preparing young student- get?’ I think that would have been James had been employed at athletes for life outside of football Paul James,” said Brown. Washington since 1976 in wide and teaching them lessons that they ranging roles, including time as an can use later in life is really one administrator and as a teacher. Also of the most important jobs of any during his tenure, James spent time coach,” said Brown. as a girls’ basketball coach, Coming off of a 3-6 season, Paul winning state titles in 1988 and James recognizes the work in front Linn-Mar partners 1995, and also as the school’s of him, and is embracing it. head football coach, where in two “I’m ready for the challenge,” different said James. with Iowa Big tenures he compiled a 97-57 record, James also stated that he is it for a test.” including multiple trips to the state working from the ground up, By Heather Hewitt Iowa Big is also a great way final in 2003 and 2014. looking to bring the program back Linn-Mar has recently announced to meet new people and it often James did not intend on leaving to the status it held under head a partnership with Iowa Big for the opens the door for various student Washington, but after being pursued coach Greg Purnell. James was 2017-2018 school year. Perhaps opportunities. It’s even an easy by Linn-Mar, he realized the an assistant at Washington when you have heard about Iowa Big way to get more involved in your position ranked among the top in the Purnell’s Lions won state titles in from a friend, from LMTV or community. A lot of projects state. “My wife and I were putting 1985, 1989, and 1990, and has great from one of your teachers, but that students are involved in are the job into consideration and respect for Linn-Mar’s tradition. you still may be thinking, what is something that they themselves quickly realized that on paper this “This program has a history of Iowa Big all about? Iowa Big is are passionate about. Junior Kaleb was one of the better jobs around, great football, and we need to get an educational system based all Cook has one project that comes considering Linn-Mar’s history, the back to that,” said James. around project based to mind right away when someone size of the district, new facilities, After being saddened by the learning. The main goals of Iowa asks him, What is your favorite and so on,” said James. retirement of Coach Forsyth, many Big are to engage students in Project at Iowa Big? Linn-Mar Athletic Director David current Linn-Mar football players community projects, problems “My favorite Project is one Brown knew James was a natural fit feel and opportunities. It also connects called, ‘Dancing Away the for the opening, and reached excited for the opportunity next students more deeply to the people Stigma.’ It helps lessen the idea out to him when the position became season brings, and, due to his history and resources available around that disabled people can’t do the open. Among many applicants, of success, expect big things under their community. Iowa Big teaches same things as everyone else. We Brown targeted James, feeling that Coach James. basic skills in a regular school throw dance parties at their school he would fill the needs of the Lion “It makes me sad to see Coach setting but also, most importantly, and it’s a time football program. “We went after Forsyth and most of our old staff teaches how to apply those skills where they can come and have guys like Paul James who had a lot go, but I’m really excited in a real world setting. Iowa Big fun without the worry of being of experience building programs, to see what Coach James has to also lets students explore and learn constantly judged.” managing them, running them, and offer. What he’s done at Washington more So if there is an organization or taking them from the ups and downs says a lot and I’m really looking about projects they are passionate club that you are really passionate in every aspect, from kids forward to working with him,” said about. about you can pitch your ideas at buying into [the] weight room to Nick Abouassaly, junior. Since Linn-Mar has announced Iowa Big and maybe that dream of philosophies. He really stood out Chayse Schultz, junior and key a partnership with Iowa Big, that yours will become a reality. If you to me as the one who was the most defender for the Lions this past means Linn-Mar students can are still on the fence about whether experienced coach,” said Brown. season, feels like the program is experience this type of learning or not you should try Iowa Big or According to Brown, James’ headed in the right direction. Schultz environment without having to stick to the regular schooling style, experience in a public school believes that the right people are in pay extra tuition and all of our these are a few aspects you want to setting, and his ability to develop place and the program is ready teaching staff is employed by the take into consideration. home- to compete. Linn-Mar School District. You Junior Jaelyn Bowers, left me grown players and not rely on “Coach James had a good career might still be thinking, “is Iowa with this final thought. transfers, along with his track over at Wash and I think with some Big Right for me?” “If you are a person who enjoys record of success really made him of the athletes here at Linn-Mar that According to Junior Jaelyn a structured class and usually likes stand out. Brown also praised Coach he could turn this program back into Bowers it was the right choice for everything done by the book James on his ability to connect and a powerhouse,” said Schultz. her. and with a set schedule, then the communicate with people, and Fellow junior and two-year “Iowa Big is such a unique way public school system might be the was very confident in his ability varsity starter Cevan Walton is of learning that ended up really right choice, but if you are more to lead a youth program that can feeling anxious after the hire, ready benefiting me. Although I was creative and want to try a learning successfully feed all the way up to to get learning the basic skills that the style that’s more project-based the varsity level. back onto the field and feeling regular school setting teaches me, than I would choose Iowa Big.” As Athletic Director, Brown sees motivated to perform well heading I wasn’t learning how to actually Everybody has different it as his job to put the right leader in into his senior season. apply teaching styles that work best for place to run the football “I’m excited for the 2017 season those skills and this really makes them so take all these points into program, and he feels like he has because it’s my senior year and I someone understand and learn consideration and hopefully you accomplished that with the hire of hope to see my teammates and I be the content rather than just will then be able to decide if Iowa James, citing his ability to teach not put in a position to make a statement memorizing Big is right for you. The Linn-Mar Life Blocker is a hidden gem at Linn-Mar By Paige Harrington Ms. Blocker puts a lot of effort older sisters had already become Most people have seen or heard into her work, not only for her peace teachers, and enjoyed it. I knew that about the seven wonders of the of mind, but also because she loves I was comfortable in a classroom world, and some can even name a her job and loves what she does. setting from all my years in school, few of them, but what most people “I love that every day is different. and thought that it might be a good don’t know is that Linn Mar has its No two weeks are the same, no two fit as a career,” said Blocker. own wonder within the walls of its quarters are the same, and no two Ms. Blocker says time she spent high school. years are the same. Every class is interning at the Brucemore Mansion Ms. Rebecca Blocker is a different, and every class has its in Cedar Rapids also convinced hidden treasure some students will own personality.” her to become a teacher. Blocker never find. Tucked away in the Blocker says she enjoys variety, enjoyed helping out by giving tours northeast corner of the building, she and wouldn’t want to teach the of the main house. specializes in United States history, same class all day, every day, and “What I really liked was when teaching only a portion of freshmen it helps to have both ninth graders there was a group not too big and for US History 9, one class of 11th and upperclassmen throughout the not too small, with very engaged and 12th graders for AP US History, day. In her eyes, teaching one is not and interested people who really and the occasional group of seniors better than the other. wanted to learn about the history of forging ahead to graduation with “In comparison, the freshmen the home. I enjoyed telling stories the required Government class. are not set in their ways like many about the families who lived there Ms. Blocker is quite reserved, and juniors and seniors are at their and answering the questions these are affecting our students. We can reveals very little about herself to age, but that makes it interesting people had because they wanted to only try our best,” she explains. her students, but where she lacks in because the freshmen are easily be there,” Blocker explained. Ms. Blocker’s approach to sharing personal details, she more impressionable, and in some cases “I didn’t take the job for the students reflects her passion for her than makes up for with her teaching more apt to learning. I have nothing money, I did it for the experience. work. She had a hard time choosing abilities and style. against the upperclassmen, and I At the time I wasn’t even thinking a specific historical event that is Although only coming in at a enjoy teaching the advanced classes, about going into education, but I her favorite, but chose instead a modest five foot three, Ms. Blocker but their age and experience can really enjoyed what I was doing category. works just as hard as a horse. She make a difference in the way they because it was like teaching!” “My favorite type would have comes in for work around six am receive information,” she said with While working at Brucemore, to be Native American history, but every morning to go over her lesson a tone of reflection in her voice. Ms. Blocker said she faced some really any social issue is what I plans and to get some extra work Although Ms. Blocker is quiet strange encounters. The area where enjoy.” Blocker also cited women’s done before all the hustle and bustle by nature, she has an enthralling she was working on the display rights as a top favorite. ” that students and other teachers collection of experiences that made was somewhat secluded. The Students who have had Blocker bring with them begins. Blocker her who she is today. Blocker grew workspace was in the upper level testify to her teaching abilities. says that one of her biggest strengths up being the youngest of nine kids, of the servant’s quarters where no “I had her when I was a freshmen is very careful organization. the oldest being the only boy. one else should be, and could only and I didn’t appreciate her at the “I am very organized and like to “Growing up, my brother kind of be accessed by a single set of stairs. time, but I wish I would have have everything laid out in front took me under his wing, but only for “I would be working by myself, because looking back now, I realize of me. Some teachers are very go- a short period of time because he is and all of the sudden I would hear that she is a really great teacher,” with-the-flow and can adapt to a 13 years older than me after all, and people running down the stairs. I’d said Junior Katie Kreutner. change of plans with a moment’s was graduating high school by the rush to the door to see who it was, “I love her wittiness and her notice, and don’t get me wrong, time I was in kindergarten. Having and no one would ever be there.” energy. She cares a lot about your they are all very good educators, seven older sisters made things fun Blocker said this happened about grades too, it’s all very motivating,” but that’s just not who I am.” and interesting, and all the estrogen three times total, and freaked her said Senior Emilee McGowan. Ms. Blocker knows what her gets going after a while, but they out every time. “She just gets really hyped up strengths and weaknesses are and were and always have been good Blocker says she doesn’t believe about the lesson and what we’re is humbled by them, but doesn’t let to me. We are all very close and in ghosts, but emphatically cried, “I doing, it makes the class more fun, them get in the way of her success, always have been. I really wouldn’t am telling you this happened!!” said Sarah Jones, senior.” or the success of her students. trade it for the world,” Blocker said Despite the handful of mysterious Students in Blocker’s class say Ms. Blocker is also one of the very in describing the bond she has with occurrences, Blocker thoroughly they have fun, but also gain a deep punctual teachers Linn Mar has to her siblings. The entire extended enjoyed her time working at understanding of the material. offer, and prides herself in getting family meets twice a year, both on Brucemore and is thankful for “Even though it’s an AP class all assignments, essays, and tests Christmas and in the summer for a the experience because it helped she does a really great job graded and returned to students the barbeque to catch up and to spend uncover a fondness for teaching. explaining everything and making very next day. time together. All her siblings are as Ms. Blocker has been teaching for sure it all makes sense, which is “I don’t like the idea of ungraded close as the eastern Iowa area to as 24 years, and has spent 17 of those really helpful for a subject like papers looming over me while I’m far as a four-hour drive, but Blocker years at Linn Mar High School. She this,” said Junior AP student, Ally laying in bed.” Blocker said, while says they all see each other very says that the biggest lesson she has Edwards. in the midst of grading her U.S. 9 frequently throughout the year, and to take away from all her experience It would almost be a challenge student exams at her desk. that she loves being with them. is to have empathy. to fail in Blocker’s class because of Blocker is committed to her Ms. Blocker is very family- “Everyone has their own baggage, how well covered the material is, students and to her work, and will oriented and can attribute part of and while I probably won’t know and because of her dedication to the stay long after the bell has rung her decision to become a teacher to what it is, I have to acknowledge students. to finish grading, or even to just her parents and older sisters. that it’s there,” said Blocker. She Blocker said in a light, cheery lighten the load that might have to “My parents put a heavy emphasis goes on to say that it can get hard mood that she only drinks two be brought home. She spends her on education, and I did very well in the midst of everything going or three cups of coffee a day, and prep time intentionally, focused on in school. Partially, because I had on, but says that even with the most despises tea of all kinds. She also what needs to be done for the next the opportunity to learn from my annoying students it is important to related herself to a very popular pet day, and for the future. sibling’s mistakes and saw what be aware of other people’s plights. in suburban households. “During my prep period I’m worked for them, and then was able “As teachers, we sometimes forget “My spirit animal would probably doing one of three things: preparing to figure out that it worked for me that there are lots of other things be a golden retriever. They are very for tomorrow, grading papers, or too. When the time came for me to happening outside of our class that loyal and can get excited easily but planning for the future.” make a career choice, three of my we will never know about, but that Continued on Page 5, Blocker The Linn-Mar Life Trump presidency divides nation, and Linn-Mar By Michael McGrew, Julian Debrower: “I felt morally On November 8, 2016, Americans defeated and scared.” elected Republican candidate Jacob Lepsch: “Triumph, like the Donald Trump as the 45th President people had spoken.” of the United States over his Mr. Swaney: “Worried for opposition, Democratic candidate American Democracy.” Hillary Clinton. LM Teacher: “Relieved; feel like The election brought out very my daughter may have a decent strong feelings and opinions, future and job market.” including from people at Linn- Is he qualified? Why or why not? Mar High School. Some of the Julian Debrower: “No chance in rhetoric heard in the campaign hell, he’s admitted that himself.” going to the shooting range, as and Governor actually have a outraged many students and staff, Jacob Lepsch: “Yes because a well as more military spending.” bigger direct impact on my life than sparking discussions about political politician’s job is to follow the Mr. Swaney: “The opportunity for Trump will unless he goes really correctness and acting presidential. wishes of their voters so if anyone the masses to organize in peaceful authoritarian. I’m lucky to Others were energized by countless can get as far as he did and win, he passive resistance and to be a white male living in Iowa - I’m promises of change and prosperity. is more than qualified.” rise in such numbers peacefully that not a direct target of Trump’s.” This election divided the population Mr. Swaney: “Constitutionally, yes. he will have to give up power. It LM Teacher: “Unfortunately I at Linn-Mar High School, leaving Compared to any other President in would be a great moment have lost a lot of respect for people many optimistic, but others fearful our history, no. He for American Democracy.” who have behaved inappropriately. and offended. Students and teachers meets the constitutional LM Teacher: “Economic turn- I have been vandalized and verbally were interviewed to discover how qualifications. Nothing in his around which has already started, assaulted in public… The general the election impacted Linn-Mar. resume has been done for the public secure borders.” public is too lazy to dig deep for Who did you support in the 2016 good. Is he a racist? good answers and look into each election? It has all been done for private gain. Julian Debrower: “Obviously.” candidate’s real history Julian Debrower: “Bernie Sanders For me, that is a disqualifier.” Jacob Lepsch: “Everyone is in the primaries and Hillary Clinton LM Teacher: “People wanted inherently a racist.” Blocker, cont. from Page 4 during the general someone with a fresh perspective Mr. Swaney: “I have no idea aren’t like that all the time. Plus election.” and a NON-politician so I guess whether he is personally, but the they have pretty golden hair… Jacob Lepsch: “Donald Trump.” he is qualified… We need someone policies he is pushing most like me!” Blocker’s favorite food Mr. Swaney: “I supported Hillary who can balance a budget. As you certainly are.” is chocolate, in any shape and any Clinton.” know the two prior LM Teacher: “Absolutely flavor. Anonymous LM Teacher: “I presidents overspent. Obama’s not. Have you seen his cabinet “If there’s chocolate in front of supported Trump.” deficit is larger than all other selections?” me, it doesn’t matter what kind it is, If you could use one word to presidents combined. Imagine if How has the election impacted I will eat it,” she guaranteed. describe Donald Trump what you did that with your personal the school environment? Along with her infatuation of would it be? finances.” Julian Debrower: “I feel as though chocolate, Ms. Blocker also loves Julian Debrower: “I have a What is your biggest fear with it’s drawn out some extremists and to bake. Cakes are her specialty. plethora of negative labels for him him as the President of the United created new political “If there’s a gathering or whatever but I’d have to settle with States? tensions.” is going on, I am always the one fascist.” Julian Debrower: “I think he’ll Jacob Lepsch: “Younger people who brings dessert. I’m not one for Jacob Lepsch: “Initiative.” make it more difficult for certain have stronger political views, and bringing any of the savory things. Mr. Swaney: “Populist.” liberal-leaning demographics have stayed up to date.” I like to bake and I like that I can LM Teacher: “Driven.” to vote. Also I’m fearful that he Mr. Swaney: “I have found my prepare it beforehand and then not What about Hillary Clinton? will succeed at gutting the EPA and students quieter this year. I think worry about it.” Blocker’s students Julian Debrower: “Centrist.” privatizing public land such people are a bit afraid to talk can attest to her baking skills, and Jacob Lepsch: “Socialism.” as national parks.” politics because they don’t want to they will come to class every once Mr. Swaney: “Experienced.” Jacob Lepsch: “He will separate be labeled as being in one camp or in awhile with a baked goodie LM Teacher: “Ruthless.” the Democrats from Republicans the other.” waiting for them at the end. Why do you think Trump won? instead of bringing people LM Teacher: “Many uninformed Ms. Blocker may not be a common Julian Debrower: “He won together.” people who listen to the drive by the name around the school, but she is because of apathy and because the Mr. Swaney: “That he will use media and don’t research very well liked by her students. She Democrats nominated a weak a terrorist attack as a pretext for anything.” is dedicated, hard-working, and candidate.” shutting down civil rights and How will it impact your life? wants all of her students to know Jacob Lepsch: “Because his mind closing the channels of democracy Julian Debrower: “I think that it that she will do whatever it takes to wasn’t political but instead it was and turn into an authoritarian will make it harder for me to get a help them succeed and that no one something new.” regime, or an illiberal college education if he guts cares about their success like she Mr. Swaney: “Civil ignorance, democracy.” colleges as much as it looks like does. nationalism, Russian intervention, LM Teacher: “Not much; can’t be he might. Also, as someone who As a high school student, it is James Comey, unpopular worse than Obama’s failed policies. enjoys travel, not having easy to take any given teacher for Clinton, celebrity culture.” My biggest fear is with access to parks and Bureau of Land granted, or to underestimate their LM Teacher: “He was everything other people- people that don’t Management land would devastate dedication because of the small she wasn’t. I saw an awesome video accept his victory.” (me) since they are some snapshot that is seen. On top of that, that said, ‘Why are the What are you most hopeful for? of my favorite places to visit.” everyone goes from class to class Dems protesting Trump when the Julian Debrower: “I hope that, if Jacob Lepsch: “For the better/ and from teacher to teacher day in Dems are the one to blame!’ Trump Trump and the Republican-backed in my interests. Hopefully this and day out, focused on anything should have been an easy congress succeed at gutting broadens the people’s mindsets of and everything under the sun. If Victory (for the Democrats). the Affordable Care Act, they will who can be a good President.” there’s nothing else to be taken Instead they served up the same old actually have a great plan to replace Mr. Swaney: “Well, if Betsy away from the years one spends at people with no new message as a it with something even DeVoss gets confirmed as Secretary Linn Mar, everyone should at least candidate.” better, like they claim.” of Education today, that will try to appreciate and recognize the What were you feeling after his Jacob Lepsch: “Republican have a big impact on me as a work their teachers do for them, victory? legislation and four more years of teacher. The Iowa State Legislature especially those like Ms. Blocker. The Linn-Mar Life Controversial Alt Right group continues to grow By Charles Petersen They believe in the protection of The Alternative Right is possibly sexist, or homophobic. Milo is also Western values, are for the most- one of the most controversial known as a provocateur, purposely open version of freedom of speech, political groups in recent times. saying things that will set people including speech that could be Everything surrounding the off. An example of this is when deemed hateful. The group is anti- movement breaths controversy, he started the slogan “Feminism globalist, pro-nationalism, and are including simply defining what is Cancer”. But ultimately, many supportive of leaving the United the Alt Right is. Hillary Clinton, people would agree that Milo is not Nations. They were for Brexit and during the campaign described the a bigot. are also for strict immigration, Alt Right as, “A loosely organized Those familiar with the supporting both the travel ban and group mostly online that rejects Alt Right movement say that the building of the wall. The Alt mainstream conservatism, promotes the most rage towards the Alt Right became the main driving nationalism, and views immigration Right come from head writer force behind Donald Trump during and multiculturalism as threats and spokesman of Altright.com, the election giving him the exciting to white identity.” However Ben Richard Spencer. Spencer is a self- fan base that Clinton had trouble Shapiro a Jewish, conservative, proclaimed white supremacist, has maintaining. We’ll ultimately have writer and speaker defined the refused to denounce the Nazi regime, wait and see what becomes of this Alt Right in a different manner. been the center of the Alt Right and has been quoted speaking ill of new Alt Right movement. Will they When asked in an interview he controversy. Many see him as the Jewish people on several occasions. continue to grow and avidly support said, “Basically, the Alt-Right is a leader of the group even though Spencer made big news shortly Trump or will they die out? group of thinkers who believe that he has gone on record saying that after the presidential election where Western civilization is inseparable he doesn’t consider himself a part he held a conference in which he from European ethnicity—which of the Alt Right but he just used proceeded to yell “Hail Trump, hail is racist, obviously.” He goes on to his platform to give the Alt Right our people, hail victory,” proceeded say that they’re very different from a voice. Yiannopoulos has been with a Nazi salute. He more recently traditional conservatism. Shapiro met with great hatred and protests made the news calling Tom Brady says the Alt Right fears Western on his college tour, the most the “Aryan Avatar.” society will be threatened with the recent being an all-out riot at UC Like most political groups, the inclusion of too many minority Berkeley, which caused his event Alt Right seems to be a large mixed groups. to be cancelled. Protesters claimed bag of individuals. You have both However, if you ask someone that he is racist, sexist and even radicals like Richard Spencer and known to be a part of the Alt homophobic, despite the fact that Moderate spokesmen like Milo Right, they will give you a much he is gay. Supporters will argue Yiannopoulos. Ultimately, when it different answer. Breitbart editor that these claims are ridiculous and comes down to policy, the Alt Right and writer Milo Yiannopoulos has that he’s never said anything racist, believes in mostly the same things. Education Secretary nomination causes controversy By Charles Petersen Senator and former Presidential concerns was when she was asked How does a woman who has candidate Bernie Sanders and by Minnesota senator Al Franken never attended public school find Massachusetts Senator Elizabeth whether she thought test scores herself the head of the Department Warren have criticized DeVos should be used to measure student of Education? This is just one of for this. They claim that it hurts proficiency or their growth. DeVos the many questions people have poorer kids who can’t afford said “I think, if I am understanding following the confirmation of charter or private schools. DeVos your question correctly around Betsy DeVos this past week in a and Republicans have argued that proficiency, I would correlate it historic tied senate vote at 50/50. giving children more choice in to competency and mastery, so The position was then decided by their schools and allowing more each student according to the Vice President Mike Pence who competition to take place is more advancements that they are making cast the tiebreaking vote for DeVos beneficial to everyone overall. in each subject area.” “That’s confirming her as Secretary of DeVos was nominated for growth,” the Senator interjected. Education. Secretary of Education by newly Many Democrats argued that this Betsy DeVos was born in 1958 in inaugurated President Donald moment showed DeVos’s severe Michigan. She grew up in a multi- Trump. Her nomination sparked lack of knowledge for the job. The billion dollar family only ever massive controversy on all sides debate between measuring students attending expensive private schools. of the political aisle. Devos’s based on growth compared to She grew up to marry Dick DeVos nomination led to a long drawn- proficiency is important within the Jr., a multi-billionaire who inherited out hearing filled with moments education community. How could People all throughout the nation his wealth and his company. Betsy that made headlines and that she be the head of education when have taken online to voice their DeVos has been involved in the raised eyebrows. The most notable she doesn’t even know the basics displeasure with the newly named Republican Party since she was comment to get a lot of press was of a huge debate surrounding the Secretary of Education. Though in college and has been a lifelong her comment involving guns in education system? ultimately, most of their worries donor and fundraiser for Republican schools for protection against Betsy DeVos was so controversial may never come to fruition, candidates. It’s estimated that the grizzly bears. When asked if guns that two Republicans in the Senate considering the vast majority of family has donated close to 200 had anyplace in or around schools, voted against her, causing the tie. education policy is done at the million dollars to the Republican she responded by citing a school But Senators haven’t been the only state level. Concerned teachers and Party. She has also been a long-time in Wyoming and saying, “I think ones to oppose DeVos so vividly. parents may just have to trust in the advocate of school choice, charter probably there, I would imagine After her confirmation, DeVos made checks and balances of our system schools, and voucher programs. there’s probably a gun in the school headlines once again when she tried or hope the Republican-controlled This system, supported mostly to protect from potential grizzlies.” to visit a local public school in Congress votes to get rid of the by Republicans, favors private She went on to say that she would Washington D.C. but was blocked Secretary of Education position, schools and charter schools being support the President in getting rid from entering by protesters. She as they’ve wanted to do for quite funded with federal money and less of gun free zones. quickly retreated to her vehicle as a some time. Otherwise, people of the funding for public schools. Many Another moment in her hearing small group of protesters screamed opposition may be in for a long four Democrats, including Vermont which raised many people’s at her, displaying their displeasure. to eight years. The Linn-Mar Life Mather successful in the pool and in class By Kate McInroy got back from competing at state, This year was the last competitive Senior Matthew Mather is a where they placed 14th. Matthew season for Matthew, who says, “I Linn-Mar student, swimmer, and participated in the 200 freestyle, will continue to swim for fun and to snoozer. He is just like the rest of the 400 freestyle, and the Medley stay in shape but this is the end of us; he faces the same struggles, has Relay. How did Mather feel about my swimming career.” He says that the same goals, and is just an overall the team placement? he feels bittersweet about the end of relatable kid. “Overall, not the greatest. The his career. A typical day for Matthew, during team had more motivation at districts When not swimming or at school, swimming season, starts with his (where they beat Washington’s one might find Matthew at St. Joe’s alarm going off at around 5:30 am winning streak), I think we peaked youth group where he has been even though morning practice is at too early.” involved for the past four years. This 6:30. This is because he hits snooze Matthew reflected on his groups meets every Wednesday and on his alarm a couple times. Next, relationship with swimming. does prayer services, quiet nights, eats breakfast which the parents “It’s a love-hate relationship. I activity nights, etc. provide for the swimmers, and hate practicing, that’s why I like Matthew says he likes youth then he is off to school. Matthew meets and why I do sprints (short group, not just for the religious is currently in AP Chemistry, swimming events). Overall, I’m aspect but it gets me away from AP Statistics, gym, Physics, and just lazy but I like showing off what homework and I get to meet new and mentioned that the respect, the an online Kirkwood class called I can do.” people.” responsibility and the salary that Medical Terminology. During his Would Matthew ever compete in Next year, Matthew is attending come with those jobs are a nice block off at the end of the day, he a different sport? the University of Iowa and looking touch. completes school work and then “Yes and no. Swimming is not as at a major in the medical field. He Looking back, Matthew has he heads back to the school for popular as other sports like football has considered nursing or even some proud and some not-so-proud more swim practice, which even he or basketball. It is sort of sad that becoming a doctor. moments in his life. He remembers admits is sometimes hard to do. I don’t get to show my talents to “My parents went to Iowa and getting on the state podium, which When at home, one could find classmates. It would be cool to have they both majored in the medical meant he was one of the top six Matthew watching Grey’s Anatomy a student section up in the stands field. The medical field is always swimmers in the state at an event. or Shameless, his current favorite watching our meets.” needed and provides a good salary. He counts this as one of his best shows on Netflix. One advantage to swimming is that The human body interests me a lot, successes. He also is very proud of In his free time, Matthew and Matthew has formed strong bonds and has for a while now.” his grades and maintaining a good his friends have some interesting on the team. Almost all of his closest Matthew says the medical GPA. pastimes, like pulling a desk chair relationships are other swimmers field is becoming more and more Matthew says if he could go back behind a car with a rope or going on his team. He said he is close with competitive and that is a little and study and prepare for the ACT off-roading. He and his friends also his coaches, girl swimmers, and stressful, but like the rest of us, he more he definitely would. He even engage in “fight night” which led even swimmers from other schools. questions a lot what will happen in said that was the one thing he would to a hole in Matthew’s wall that I One of Matthew’s close friends is college. For Matthew, his concerns do over in life so far. He always says noticed quickly as I entered the Senior Zach Vana, also a swimmer. include grades, time management, he wishes he were more involved. basement. Well, he’s my best friend and success, and failure. “I wish I would have tried a Matthew has been a Linn-Mar my college roommate next year, so Matthew, although facing the couple more sports. Maybe soccer, swimmer for the past four years and it says a lot that I am committing stress we all have about college, football, or show choir. I would has done club swimming with Linn this far in advance for next year,” is also excited for what his college have done more clubs, I think I lost Mar Swim Club in the off season. says Zach. “I can talk to him about years have in store for him. He some opportunities to meet new He was also a member of Bowman everything under the moon and get plans to participate in intramurals people.” Woods and Marion YMCA club a response, which sometimes sucks like volleyball, flag football, Just like the rest of us, Matthew swimming when he was younger. but it is really good in the long run. basketball, swimming, and Iowa’s has his little quirks, like not being He puts his swimming expertise But, yeah, he’s a really good friend infamous ‘Canoe battleship.’ He able to sit still, which leads to him to good use, lifeguarding in the and I respect him a lot.” also said he is interested in looking gnawing on his pencils or fiddling summer at Bowman Woods and the Matthew and his assistant coach at fraternities at Iowa. with his hair. He says he also can YMCA and instructing swimming Chad Derlin have a very close Looking forward in life, Matthew take showers that can get up to 20 at the YMCA. relationship and even snapchat each said being a prestigious doctor or minutes long when he’s blasting his Matthew and his teammates just other on a regular basis. surgeon would be a dream of his favorite music. Linn-Mar’s Cook wants to “Dance Away the Stigma” By Heather Hewitt Dancing Away The Stigma because April 15th, and will be helping to program hopes that they not only Dancing Away The Stigma is I have always been interested in raise money for Camp Courageous, lessen the stigma regarding special an initiative from Iowa Big in making a positive change to the a year-round camp for individuals needs kids, but that they also show partnership with the Cedar Rapids world and also, specifically, in with special needs. those without disabilities what Ice Arena and Camp Courageous helping special needs kids. It’s According to Cook, “The dance special needs kids sometimes go of Iowa. The goal of the program what I hope to do even when I’m party was created to help those through, and how they can help is to celebrate diversity through older and to be able to help make an whose lives are affected by mental them. dance. By striving to help lessen the impact now is amazing.” disabilities and to help raise more Cook said, “I have always loved stigma that individuals with special Part of the program involves awareness in the special needs getting to interact with special needs face, the project stresses that going to different districts around community.” needs kids and I’m hoping later on those with disabilities can do a Eastern Iowa and surrounding areas Kids can get together with others in life I maybe can even become lot of the same activities as those and teaching dance therapy classes and embrace their love of dance and a pediatrician that specializes in without disabilities. Dancing Away to special needs students and to of course, help lessen the stigma. helping kids with disabilities.” the Stigma is also a great way for anyone else who wants to help It’s also a way for others in the high school students to get involved lessen the stigma of disabilities. The surrounding communities to make If you want to get more involved in their community. The program kids will also have an opportunity a difference in the camper’s lives. with Dancing Away The Stigma you is run by seven students from Iowa to perform their dances at dance There will be a live DJ, free snacks, can buy tickets for their next dance Big but was founded by Linn-Mar parties, organized by the project. games and dancing. There will party at www.datsdance.com. High School student, Kaleb Cook. The next dance party will be held also be education on opportunities According to Cook, “I started at the Cedar Rapids Ice Arena on for people with special needs. The The Linn-Mar Life Linn-Mar show choir follows themed show trend By Izzy Nanke other varsity leveled themed shows. to keep focused on the important Judges judge based off of their Show choir has always been an This just shows how prominent aspects of a successful show: own opinion, but Robson said, activity filled with beautiful dresses themed shows are at this time. singing and dancing well. That’s the “When I’m judging a show, I look and at least one uncomfortable Although it is hard to deny criteria on which show choir groups first and foremost at what the kids dance partner, however, this activity that themed shows don’t have the are most heavily judged. have put on stage and evaluate the is changing. Throughout the last potential to be Grand Champion So there are pros and cons to both things that are in the kids’ control.” three or four years there’s been a worthy shows, not everyone is types of shows. Traditional shows Most judges stick to this principle. new phenomenon sweeping across completely sold on this idea. are often viewed as easier, but can Theme does come into play at the world of show choir: themed Says Lexi Robson, a well-known be executed in a cleaner way. This most competitions, but it is of shows. Kennedy’s Happiness Inc, choreographer and judge, “I will is quite the opposite for themed low priority for most judges. The Ankeny Centennial’s Spectrum, say having worked with many non- shows. Typically, they are more judging has and most likely will even Linn Mar’s Tenth Street themed and themed shows, it is difficult and in turn, sloppier. But always be based mostly on how Edition are all examples of this much harder to produce a successful if effort is put into both shows they well the group sings and how well curious new sensation. Nearly gone themed show, there are just so many have an equal chance at the Grand they execute their choreography. It are the days of traditional shows. moving parts.” Champion title. is called show choir after all. Instead, one is seeing shows that Watching Tenth Street Edition’s Ultimately though, the choice So, is the transition from depict the adventures of passengers themed show this year prompts a of themed versus traditional shows traditional shows to themed shows on board the RMS Titanic or the life range of emotions, starting with a doesn’t come down to the directors actually happening, or is it just the through the eyes of a rebellious cult sense of loyalty to the cult leader, of the shows, or the choreographers. newest bit of show choir drama? member. What is this going to do to Senior Nick House in the beginning, This title of Grand Champions that Whichever one it is, show choir the world of show choir? to the rebelliousness emitted from every group is striving to get is will always be changing and ready According to Adam Miller, the main female soloist Senior given to a group by the judges at for the next best thing someone has director of Ankeny Centennial’s Niharika Annira. There is a sense that competition. to offer. Spectrum, “I think moving forward, of longing in their ballad and then we will start to see more developed the show ends with the feeling of story shows in the Midwest. Like defiance. The audience hardly has I said, this is still a new concept time to breathe or blink during their for the Midwest. As more groups show in fear of missing something. explore options, I think we will see “Before Tenth Street even steps both more and better story shows.” on stage I get flutters in my stomach And many people agree with from the excitement. As they Miller. The world of show choir step on stage, my whole being is is competitive so it is constantly overflowed with joy because I know changing, meaning this is not the how amazing they are. Their show last change that those involved in just makes me really really happy,” show choir will see. Throughout this said Junior Cailey Fisher. season, everywhere Linn-Mar has There are so many moving parts, competed at has housed at least two and so many emotions that it is hard Linn-Mar show choirs bringing home hardware By Kate McInroy Edition. Senior Annabelle Luke, a Their show consists of the songs: Over the weekend of January The groups competed at Ankeny on representative of Hi Style said, “I “25th Annual Putnam County 28th, Linn-Mar’s Show Choir the 7th of January, hosted Supernova was shocked by the vocal award Spelling Bee”, “R.E.S.P.E.C.T”, Department set their foot in history. at Linn-Mar on January 14th and then because I felt like I personally did “What Do You Mean”, “This is the All three show choirs at Linn-Mar: competed in LaCrosse, Wisconsin not do my best during the vocals. Moment”, and “Queen Bee”. Hi- Hi-Style, In Step, and 10th Street on January 28th. On February 11th, The band award surprised me Style rehearses once a week outside Edition hauled home first place they competed at Washington High because I knew that they made a lot of school. trophies. Along with three titles of School’s MoShow competition, and of changes during the practice. The In Step’s show revolves around “Grand Champion,” Hi-Style was on February 18th, In Step and 10th dance caption award made me very the idea of time. Their songs include awarded best choreography and Street performed at Davenport’s happy because that’s what I’m most “Clocks/One Minute More,” “All best vocals in their unisex division. “Great River” competition. passionate about and I felt like our the Wasted Time” with soloist Joel 10th Street Edition also brought The life of a show choir performer cleaning that we did that week paid Peterson and Emma Geneser, and home best choreography and vocals can be hectic. For example, all off.” “Do You Remember the Time.” as well as best band, best ballad, the kids involved in the LaCrosse Mrs. Hussey, In Step’s director, In Step’s guys feature soloist is and best female soloist, Niharika competition were at Linn-Mar at said “I was impressed with our Isaac Langley, and the girls feature Annira. 4:45am so they could arrive in groups as well as the other groups soloist is Izzy Nanke with “Time “I was shocked! Obviously I was Wisconsin around 7:30am. Around at the competition.” Machine” and “End of Time”. In excited, but I couldn’t believe it 11pm the kids loaded back onto This was the first time all three Step rehearses once a week outside especially, watching all of the other the buses for the journey home and show choirs from Linn- Mar have of school. amazing female soloists,” said arrived back at Linn-Mar around won under the direction of Mr. 10th Street Edition’s show Annira. 2:15am, completing their almost 21 Buglewicz, the director of Hi-Style follows the story of a crazy father The show choirs at Linn-Mar are hour day. and 10th Street Edition, and Mrs. figure, soloist Nick House, and his chosen through an audition process Group members from all groups Hussey, the director of In Step. followers (the other choir members) and then participants are placed in were very excited about the results Both of the directors expressed until one of those followers, soloist one of the three groups: Hi-Style at LaCrosse. Nathan Nowzari, a their excitement, “I believe that Niharika Annira, decides to break being the youngest unisex group, In senior from 10th Street Edition, the kids worked very hard for their away from the ways of the group. Step being the mixed-prep group, said “At first I didn’t really have placements and they were well Their show consists of the songs: and 10th Street Edition, the varsity any emotions because I was so deserved,” said Buglewicz. “Gray”, “All of London”, “Rhythm mixed group. surprised, but after a few seconds I This year, Hi-Style has turned their of Life”, “Latch”, “Pull Me Down”, “Auditions are a tough process, just felt proud for everyone because show into a spelling bee, having “Flight”, “Paradise”, and “City especially with all the talent at Linn I know the group had worked three soloists, Megan Harkin, Madi of Delusion”. 10th Street Edition Mar,” said Mr. Trent Buglewicz, the so hard. I couldn’t help but feel DeJong, and Precious Kimbrough rehearses twice a week outside of director of Hi-Style and 10th Street overjoyed as the hugs commenced.” competing to win the spelling bee. school. The Linn-Mar Life Doomsday Clock gets closer to midnight By Jet Ly war by the The Bulletin of Atomic Sci- to stay informed and learn about what mate change; we know how they work, entists Science and Security board. was happening during certain time so presumably we can find ways to On January 26, 2017 the Doomsday Since its creation, climate change and periods and should not be heeded. reduce or eliminate the harm. But we Clock moved forward 30 seconds, biosecurity have been added as poten- need concerted cooperation worldwide from three minutes to two minutes and tial life-ending events. “It’s Y2K and 2012 all over again,” to prevent calamity.” 30 seconds away from midnight. This said Beadle. “These events predicted is no ordinary clock; midnight on this According to Kennette Benedict, the end of the world and when the time According to Bennett, there are clock signals global catastrophic de- senior advisor of The Bulletin, to deter- came, nothing happened.” ways that ordinary people can help struction. The clock started as the cov- mine whether or not the clock should in moving the clock back. First, get “As long as nuclear weapons exist er of the June 1947 cover for The Bul- move closer or further away from mid- smart about problems. Second, share and can be used, the risk that we could letin journal. The time began at seven night, members of the board analyze what you’ve learned. And third, tell destroy civilization also exists,” said minutes from midnight and since then the amount of nuclear weapons in the your government representative that Bennett. “Humans invented both nu- has been moved 20 times. Why seven world, temperature change, carbon di- you do not want your tax money spent clear weapons and the fossil-fuel pow- minutes? oxide levels, emerging dangers such as on nuclear weapons and fossil fuel bio threats or artificial intelligence, and ered machines that contribute to cli- equipment. Martyl Langsdorf, artist of leaders and their citizens efforts to re- the Bulletin cover, said she chose the duce dangers. According to The Bulle- time seven minutes because it “looked tin’s statement regarding this January’s good to her eye.” change in time,” A rise in strident na- tionalism worldwide, President Donald The closest we have ever been to Trump’s comments on nuclear arms hitting midnight was in 1953, when and climate issues, a darkening glob- the United States and the Soviet al security landscape that is colored by Union began testing hydrogen bombs, increasingly sophisticated technology weapons far more powerful than atomic and a growing disregard for scientific bombs and the decision to move the expertise,” were all contributing fac- clock to two minutes was made. The tors as to why the time was moved furthest we have been is 17 minutes closer to midnight. from midnight, when countries agreed to reduce nuclear arms in 1991. The When asked about the Doomsday decision to move the hand is made each Clock, many students said they have fall and the decision is then announced never heard of it before. Is there any every January. reason to fear it? On January 26, 2017 the Doomsday Clock moved forward 30 seconds, from three minutes to two minutes and 30 seconds The clock was created in 1947 as an According to Tim Beadle, senior, away from midnight. This is no ordinary clock; midnight on analogy for the threat of global nuclear the clock should be seen more as a way this clock signals global catastrophic destruction. Electoral College votes cause election controversy By Maddie Bliek common people of America and did is California, with 55 total electoral preventing an election in which no On November 8th of 2016, not think them capable of making votes. candidate received the majority of Americans all over the country voted the right choice when voting for a In the 2016 election, Trump won the votes cast. A week after winning for their presidential pick in the president. Hamilton suggested the 304 electoral votes to Clinton’s 227. the election, then President-elect 2016 United States election. After idea of the Electoral College at the In terms of the popular vote, Clinton Trump sent out a tweet praising the polls were closed and the votes Constitutional Convention. The received roughly 65.8 million votes the Electoral College and calling were counted, it was announced Framers of the Constitution chose while Trump received about 63 it “genius” in that it brings all that Republican candidate Donald this idea of indirect election of million. Trump won several large states into play. Those against Trump had won the presidency the president through a College of states such as Florida, Pennsylvania the Electoral College say that over Democratic opponent Hillary Electors over the idea of a popular and Wisconsin by very narrow the distribution of electoral votes Clinton. However, some Americans vote. It was feared that voting margins. Clinton also won several per state is not equally dispersed expressed anger after it was citizens would not be informed large states including California, and that it allows someone to win revealed that despite Clinton having enough to make the right decisions New York and Illinois. Trump won the presidency by winning only won the popular vote, Trump won when casting their ballot. At this the popular vote by the seventh 21.8% of the popular vote. In an the presidency due to receiving the point in history, a majority of the smallest winning percentage since article from the Huffington Post, majority of the electoral votes. population of America was illiterate 1828, when presidential campaigns Tyler Lewis says, “by electing Many Americans upset with and it was assumed that most began to resemble those of today. our President solely based on who the results of the election began citizens would simply vote for the The last time that a popular vote the majority of our population to call for the removal of the candidate that came from their state. winner lost the presidency was in selects, without the inclusion of an Electoral College. Following the The most basic definition of 2000 when George W. Bush won the Electoral College, the vote of every 2016 election, it has become clear the Electoral College is a group Electoral vote despite his opponent, American citizen would hold equal that there is a significant amount of people that elects the president Al Gore, winning the popular vote. weight and significance.” of confusion over what exactly the and vice president of the United In that election, Bush received 271 Following Trump’s win in the Electoral College does and how States. Electors in the College are votes to Gore’s 266, while in the 2016 election, a Gallup poll shows it works. According to a national appointed by political parties in popular vote, Gore won 537,000 that 47% of Americans say that survey taken in January of 2011 each state. If a candidate from the more votes nationwide. This they want to keep the Electoral by NBC Los Angeles, only 57% of Republican Party wins the popular situation of winning the popular College while 49% say they want those who have held political office vote, then the electors that the vote but not winning in the Electoral to amend the Constitution to allow know what the Electoral College Republican Party has chosen in College caused a similar reaction in for a popular vote for the president. does, while 66% of the public got each state will cast votes for them 2000 as it did today. In both cases, Despite the outbreak of protests the answer right. in their state capitals in December recounts were called for, however against the Electoral College and In order to fully understand what after the popular vote has taken in the 2016 election, the Clinton some Democratic officials calling the Electoral College is and how it place. Today, it takes 270 votes or campaign denied requests that for the Electoral College’s removal, works, it is important to look back more to win the presidency. There they sought a recount in Michigan, the percentage of Americans that on its history. The person most are 538 electoral votes in all. The Pennsylvania and Wisconsin. approve of the Electoral College is credited with the creation of the amount of electoral votes a state Those in favor of the keeping the higher than in past years, leaving Electoral College was Founding gets is based upon its population. Electoral College in place claim the country sharply divided on the Father Alexander Hamilton. Iowa has six electoral votes. The that it requires a president to have issue. Hamilton had a distrust in the state with the most electoral votes trans-regional appeal as well as The Linn-Mar Life

ByMrs. Michael McGrew, Benda, the “The studentssub here actuallyevery care studentMrs. Benda has a husband wants who to see Enid Benda sits cross-legged in about learning, which makes it so she has been married to since her her chair, wearing a purple striped easy to teach. Teaching science at twenties. She says that when she sweater, striped socks, boat shoes my old school, I used to have all first met him she thought he was and her famous smile. She is one of blank faces tilted like this (to the a bum. That thought changed after Linn-Mar’s most beloved substitute side). That doesn’t happen at Linn- her then-boyfriend suggested that teachers, an eighty-four year-old Mar,” said Benda. he give her a ride one day. She has master of classroom management. The students at Linn-Mar love been with him ever since. She says Mrs. Benda has always been a Mrs. Benda as much as she loves that their personalities balance out hard worker, and she says that this teaching them. To every class, she very well in the relationship. They characteristic can be traced back brings with her a bag of snacks and never had any kids, but that does to her childhood, growing up in treats for each student in her day. not bother her. Southern Iowa. She passes one out to everyone “No, it doesn’t. It just never From a young age, Benda was before the end of each class. She worked out. You guys are all my taught the importance of a job well makes sure that the bag contains kids,” said Mrs. Benda. done. She grew up on a family healthy options as well, and she The joys of her life launch well farm, where she was constantly often advertises the sugar-free beyond the classroom. She enjoys running around doing chores. In gum, organic gummies and other music, books, driving her BMW, her free time, she worked in a small healthy options. She cares about her and most of all, travel. Although store, where wide ranges of items students and they love that about her. claiming to have no musical talent were sold. Her jobs there included Because these snacks have become herself, Mrs. Benda likes all kinds Middle-East and another bedroom stocking shelves, keeping the store such a large part of her reputation, I of music, one of which is rap. contains all findings from many clean and assisting customers. Mrs. wondered how it all began. She enjoys listening to Jay Z and Central American countries. Benda says that both working on “Actually, the idea was given Eminem especially. Does Mrs. Benda have any regrets the farm and her first job in the store to me by one of my old friends. I “I kind of like the rhythm of rap, in her life? She plays with a rubber helped to make her the focused hard asked him for advice and he said I just don’t always understand the band between her fingers and worker she is today. to just give them a little treat or words, they go so fast,” she said. explains that no, she does not. She “I get to school at seven. I’ve just something. It started out with Jolly Books are an essential part of Mrs. has made mistakes of course, such always been an early bird about my Ranchers and just grew from there,” Benda’s free time and she rarely as failing Algebra, but all mistakes job,” said Mrs. Benda. said Benda. goes anywhere without them. She have led to who she is today. She After graduating college, she took Teachers at Linn-Mar also agree. enjoys reading non-fiction the most, lives in the moment, only worrying up a job at a Cedar Rapids middle They often ask her to sub because everything from ancient history to about what will affect her now and school where she worked until she they know she will keep the students modern biographies and sciences. in the future. retired. Retirement did not sit well focused while also allowing them to The fascinating thing about her is During her eighty four years of with Mrs. Benda. Her love for enjoy the class. that the learning does not stop at living, Mrs. Benda has witnessed students and the classroom made her “She just subbed for me last books. She will often travel to these many changes in society. She is realize that she never should have week. She has a great rapport with places, and has been to dozens of always very optimistic, pointing out left teaching at all. She then began the students and is a familiar face in countries all over the world, too that kids today are better educated, to substitute teach at Linn-Mar, the school,” said history teacher Mr. many to count. From these trips healthier, and more responsible. where she has been teaching ever Jordan Printy. she will bring home souvenirs that “Everyone seems to have goals since. Mrs. Benda enjoys teaching “The students love her. Mrs. now line the walls in her home. For now. They don’t just wander loose at Linn-Mar more than anywhere Benda is everything,” said Spanish example, her living room is covered and see what will happen. I think else she has ever taught at. teacher Sra. Shindelar. with local tapestries from the they’re smarter,” she said. Burger joint provides good food with a zombified twist By Joshuwa Kilts their special “Zombie Sauce”, and the Zombie sauce and a very strong and the Kool-Aid cherry powder As I walked into the building, two grilled cheese sandwiches for taste of cheese. It could have used gave it a unique tartness that was I quickly noticed the mural of the buns. I also got the Tallahassee some more sauce to help balance improved upon by the sweetness zombified Iowa fans in front of the shake, featuring vanilla ice cream, out the large amount of cheese, or a of the ice cream and the Twinkie Old Capitol in Iowa City. This is a Twinkie, blended cherries, and more varied type of cheeses. filling. And for the price of $5, it part of the décor of Zombie Burger, cherry Kool Aid powder. The shake was a highpoint, was a great deal compared to the a fairly new zombie-themed The wait time for my food was though. A friend had recommended price of the $10 burger. restaurant chain with five locations around ten minutes, which seemed this particular shake and told me it Zombie Burger is a great place scattered around Iowa. pretty fast for the large number of was good. I was expecting a weird for the occasional visit and for out Zombie Burger specializes in people, who were in the restaurant at texture from the use of a Twinkie of the ordinary dining options, but “extraordinary” options when it the time. As my server gave me my and Kool-Aid powder but found not really worth the trip to Iowa comes to making a burger or shake, food and I looked at it, I could feel that the shake had been blended City for your average night out. The with extraordinary names to match. the amount of calories I was about pretty evenly and smoothly. The food is good, the shakes are great, Consider these menu options: to consume. The Burger looked like contradicting flavors of real cherries and the atmosphere is zombifying. “They’re Coming to Get You the outcome of someone allowing a Barbra”, “The Walking Ched”, and five year old to have whatever they “Juan of the Dead”. These reference wanted for dinner… and I loved it. some piece of zombie pop culture. The amount of onions and bacon The price of food can be a bit made it start folding over the sides expensive for a burger joint, with of the grilled cheese buns that were burgers ranging from $5-13dollars, also oozing because of the amount and with fries and drink bought of cheese packed into each one. separately. Fries and drinks end up This was a burger that was meant being a couple bucks each. to be eaten with no regards to how The burger I bought on my visit messy it got. was the “They’re Coming to Get As I ate it, I found that the taste You Barbra”. It featured two patties was a little above average. It tasted cooked on a flat top grill, American like a normal bacon cheese burger cheese, bacon, caramelized onions, with a few extra notes of flavor from The Linn-Mar Life Bunney has triumphed over adversity By Zoey McDonald care of myself at a very early age. of summer with the surgery and “I’m a huge nerd. I hate saying Any benefits? Disadvantages? recovery combined. My recovery this because it sounds arrogant but After sixteen years you have to was almost more difficult than the the first thing that comes to mind is learn how to look at the “positives” surgery. Having a pool at my house, I am intelligent and have a gift for even though there aren’t really I couldn’t swim and I couldn’t play math and science. I am quiet if I any. It gives me the ability to fake tennis either. don’t know you, but more outgoing a low blood sugar if I ever need What good came out of it? when we’re friends,” said Senior to…. overall I think it made me a I don’t have seizures anymore and I Michael Bunney. better person. Basically, everything can’t communicate to someone who Bunney is the son of Rick and that comes from diabetes is a doesn’t have seizures how amazing Rachael Bunney and is the oldest disadvantage. that is. Also, it helped me get rid of of four children in his family, his I was walking home from a a crazy girlfriend. siblings being Matt, Max, and friend’s house with my family and Any specific moments you can Meghan. He does not relate well to then we checked my blood sugar remember? his brothers, but says that he and his and it was 28. This is the lowest Again, too many to say. It was sister are a lot alike. I’ve ever been in my life and I the source of some of the greatest “Both of my brothers aren›t so shouldn’t have been conscious. memories of my life. I’ll choose academically inclined, but my sister Side-effects of having seizures? one that was the sweetest thing loves school and is very intelligent Over long periods of seizure ever. My sister got me a little for her age,” said Michael. activity, they cause damage to your bear from the gift shop and when Michael has an English bulldog brain. This is over the course of you squeeze it, it says things. So named Georgia and is involved in possibly decades. I squeezed it and in this little kid tennis, orchestra, and show choir. Specific instances having seizures voice it goes, “I hope this makes One struggle Michael has had to that you can recall? your booboo better!” It almost face is living with diabetes, which Too many to say. Once I had a made one of the researchers cry. he was diagnosed with 16 years ago. seizure in the middle of a biology How long have you been involved It does not normally inhibit him presentation in 9th grade. That was in orchestra? from doing activities, it just requires my peak seizure activity time in Eight years and I play the Viola. him to be more careful and he must my whole life. I recorded a max of Would you say you are good at it? monitor his blood sugar, as well as about 11 a day, I think. Within our program, I’m average, love understanding the universe. the items he consumes. Michael Did it affect your daily life? but out of most other schools, I would Do you pursue it outside of has also struggled with epilepsy I tried not to let it control my life. It say I’m better than average. We school? for the past eight years, which can can definitely be difficult when I have a very good program. I guess? I have a habit of working cause him to have seizures. In the start having seizures during sports, How do you feel about the way ahead in class and I love summer of 2016, Michael decided music, or while taking tests because orchestra environment? learning about it from the science to have surgery in order to remove it screws me up for awhile, even Everyone is friendly and welcoming. channel and online sources. the focal points of his seizures. after the seizure has ended. Who is your favorite director? What classes have been your Now after over six months, he has Were there any risks to having Rez. The one and only. He can be favorite throughout your not had a single seizure. surgery? Was it worth it? a little hard to deal with sometimes, education so far? “Technically I was never conscious Infection was the greatest risk, but but I respect how great of a director AP Chem and AP physics while it [his skull] was OPEN, it is for any surgery. It was more he is and his dedication to his job. What do you believe are your but I was conscious while it was than worth it. How long have you been greatest achievements? stitched closed and healing. It was How long were you in the hospital participating in show choir and I survived AP Chem with a 5 on EXTREMELY painful. Having a for? Were you nervous? what do you do? the test. I also participated in the ponytail of wires coming out of your 26 days. I was absolutely terrified. Three years. I play viola in the band. most “blocks” of research with head doesn’t exactly feel good.” Did you learn anything from it? Has it helped you in any way? my research team ever during my Favorite childhood memory? They may not make sense without Social or ability wise? surgery. This essentially means I I don’t know… getting to meet my the stories behind them but I learned Socially, I have made a lot of did the most experiments with them sister for the first time. quite a few things that may sound friends and ability-wise, it teaches of all their participants. Hopefully, What do your hobbies include? pretty deep. Always appreciate the you how to play in a different type it helps people like me in the future. Tennis, learning from the science little things in life, because when of ensemble. What are your plans after high channel and other shows, and the you’re missing them you’ll realize Favorite show choir memory? school? occasional video game binge. how much they matter. Always We were in Davenport at Great Get a bachelor’s in physics, then a Are there any new interests you tell people you love them and try River and my friend dropped her masters, and then a Ph.D. in some want to pursue? to live an honest life. Just try to phone in the river. specialty and then pursue a career Ever since 9th grade, I became keep your regrets to a minimum How long have you been playing doing my own research. obsessed with the science channel because life is unpredictable and tennis and what is your estimated What college do you plan on and have been pursuing science some days may be your last chance ranking? attending? ever since, so nothing new exactly, to do or say something and regret Eight years, I think. My guess Most likely Iowa State, but we’ll just more. is the worst feeling. Finally, take before the season even starts is see if I’m accepted to the University What do you do in your free time? a day to go down to the hospital roughly 10-12 range. of Chicago. I usually sleep because I’m busy at and volunteer. Just spend a single Have you improved over the past Where do you want to end up? other times, but otherwise I watch day to help those who are fighting few years? Hopefully doing research for some TV and work ahead in my classes something and it will make you a Quite a bit. I learned how to hit a high clearance government projects so I can relax later. more compassionate person. lot harder. or simply doing my own research Do all of your interests relate to Did it leave anything behind? Is it something you could see somewhere in the world. one topic or do they vary? I have a giant scar on my head yourself participating in later on What is your goal in life? Generally, my interests revolve and it is a bit deformed now… but in life? I don’t care about making money around science, music, and tennis, otherwise it actually took something I will probably play tennis for the or being famous, I just want to do and that’s basically my life. away rather than left something rest of my life. something to leave my mark on Did diabetes have any effects on behind. It made me a better person. What is your favorite subject? the world and help create a better your childhood? Did it prevent you from Physics and Astronomy, because future. I don’t want my job to feel It taught me to be more responsible participating in certain things? they are awesome and explain like a job. I want it to be something than most kids. I learned to take Naturally, I missed out on 2 months everything about the universe and I that I enjoy doing every day. The Linn-Mar Life Transgender bathroom bill must be overturned to murder, kidnap, or rape victims By Shane Skvor First, they argue that transgender embarrassed, because they have the of the opposite sex, and the chance President Donald Trump is in the individuals get stressed out and same chance of getting discriminated of getting away with those crimes headlines yet again, for causing embarrassed using public bathrooms. against as anyone else. If transgender would be dramatically high. What if conflict concerning transgender Because their bodies can appear as people are granted the right to use students at Linn-Mar started going into rights. He recently changed a law the opposite gender, transgender public bathrooms based on their gender the opposite gender’s bathrooms and passed by the Obama Administration, people don’t know how other people identity, than anyone (transgender or sexually assaulting people and getting which federally allowed transgender will react to seeing them, which not) could simply say they identify away with it? That’s a real problem; individuals the right to use public often leads them to become stressed. as the opposite gender and be granted Trump making an effort to cut down on restrooms or locker rooms according If they do encounter others, they are access to the other gender’s bathroom. transgender rights is not. to their gender identity. Trump and his likely to become embarrassed as well. If this is law, one can’t question a person As of now, some states allow administration decided to give states Supporters of the bill argue that it makes who says they’re transgender, even if transgender individuals to use public the power to decide this matter which “normal” citizens feel uncomfortable, they’re not. This would be extremely bathrooms according to their gender has outraged the LGBT community as or weirded out. These feelings could dangerous, because non-transgender identity while some don’t. Trump well as other political rights activists, make citizens question transgender people would be granted access to desperately needs to repeal Obama’s organizations, and supporters. individuals, or anger them to the point the opposite gender’s bathroom. bathroom bill, so lives can be saved. The Obama Administration saw where transgender people could be put These people could have intentions this law as promoting a fundamental in harm’s way. Those opposed to the and necessary right. Transgender states deciding the law say this is unfair individuals across the nation were treatment that is depriving transgender ecstatic when Obama first enacted the individuals of equal rights depending law, because they knew that they would on one’s zip code. They also argue that no longer have to suffer embarrassment no harm would be caused if transgender and be seen as someone they’re not. people use the public bathroom based Obama was praised for changing the on their gender identity. Since no one lives of transgender people nationwide. would know they are transgender, no Time went by without any major news one would question them and there stories pertaining to Obama’s bathroom would be no reason to get stressed or bill, until Donald Trump stepped into embarrassed. Ultimately, these people office and changed it. News story after are bashing Donald Trump for the news story, from the L.A. Times to the decision he made, and they wish he New York Times, bashed Trump with would reconsider. harsh criticism. Nearly every major First of all, Donald Trump is getting news source in the country is still too much backlash for the alteration routinely reporting on this topic. he made to the bathroom bill, mainly Trump and his administration made because the arguments made by people the decision to take away federal who support transgender rights are guidelines, and to let the states decide simply untrue. Trump should have their own bathroom bills. Several repealed the bathroom bill altogether, so states have passed bills requiring their that everyone would have to use public citizens to use public restrooms or bathrooms according to their biological locker rooms corresponding with their gender. Most people are understanding biological gender, and more states are and accepting of differences. There soon to follow. is always discrimination, no matter if Supporters of transgender rights say it’s based on race, gender, or sexual Obama’s bathroom bill should be put orientation. Transgender individuals back into effect for multiple reasons. should never have to feel stressed or Vaccinations provide many benefits, should be mandatory By Zoey McDonald There should be zero acceptable orders and who cannot physically han- together as a whole to try and prevent excuses for not getting a vaccination dle being vaccinated. These people are diseases and illnesses with vaccina- Staying home for a real sickness is other than having immune system de- even more sensitive to contracting dis- tions is an incredible and worthwhile no fun. No one wants to be coughing, ficiencies or other medical reasons. eases or illnesses from others. Senior achievement. groaning, or moaning at the pain Currently, people are allowed to opt Morgan Francis says she also thinks when they could be doing something out of vaccinations due to personal that vaccinations and flu shots should While vaccines come with many interesting or adventurous instead. Not or religious beliefs. These exceptions be mandatory because it would help pros and benefits, they also have some getting a vaccination makes it harder should be abandoned because the ben- prevent the spread of diseases. cons. Some people feel vaccinations for your body to fight off illness. A efits of requiring vaccination outweigh can potentially cause children to devel- vaccine is a substance used to start the possible detriments. The way the The Centers for Disease Control op autism. This theory has consistently up the production of antibodies and law stands today, someone could re- (CDC) estimates that 732,000 American been debunked by credible doctors. provide immunity against one or fuse a vaccine simply because they children were saved from death Getting vaccinations can help several diseases, without actually in- have a fear of needles. This needs to be and 322 million cases of childhood individuals economically as well. ducing the disease. changed. Minor reasons for not want- illnesses were prevented between 1994 Vaccinations are typically covered by ing to get a shot should not take prece- and 2014 due to vaccination. Vaccinations should be mandatory insurance, however the treatment of dent over the benefits of a comprehen- for all individuals before reaching Vaccines also protect future these preventable diseases could be ex- sive and safe vaccination program. school age due to the increased time generations. According to Vaccines. pensive. spent with large groups of individuals. “I think that vaccinations should be org, some vaccinations can not only Vaccinations are the answer to All public schools currently mandate mandatory because if someone does reduce the number of cases of a specif- preventing certain diseases and illness- that children have specific vaccinations not get vaccinated then they are putting ic disease around the world but in some es. Vaccinations are easy to get and are before attending. This is to prevent the other people at risk of getting diseas- cases, they can also be eradicated com- recommended by the medical commu- spread of diseases and to encourage es, including themselves,” says Annie pletely. For example, the smallpox vac- nity. If there was a preventative vaccine vaccines. However, in some cases, ex- Sood, senior. Not getting vaccinated cination has helped completely wipe for cancer, most humans would gladly emption forms are offered for children for personal or religious beliefs puts out the disease worldwide and will get it. Vaccinations for other diseases not to be vaccinated due to the personal other people at risk, especially indi- prevent future generations from get- should be viewed in the same way. or religious beliefs of their guardians. viduals that have immune system dis- ting infected. The human race working

Editorials Editorials Editorials Editorials The Linn-Mar Life Americans must educate themselves to back up their opinions By Michael McGrew attack against Donald Trump by to be affiliated with the KKK. Second, go into pay, women at Audi are on In 2017, Americans have access Liberals was to call him a racist. More David Duke endorsed Barack Obama par with their male counterparts.” to more information than they have specifically, they say that he hates in 2008. When has anyone used that to The factors they are referring to ever had before. For example, a Mexicans and African Americans. It call Obama racist? are the facts that women work fewer simple Google search of “United is more professional to actually take a One other heated issue today is the hours per week than men and take States” generates more than look into those claims. apparent wage gap. Modern feminists more time off. If feminists simply three billion results. This gives Donald Trump began his campaign argue that men get paid more than did the research and understood these everyone the opportunity to access by saying that Mexico is sending women, while others argue that the pay facts before entering the discussion, facts and opinions about every rapists and criminals to the United is equal. Many feminists only use one they would fail to embarrass topic imaginable. It also prompts States. Many people twist these words talking point to back this up, saying themselves just as Audi did in this discussions and arguments about into a whole new meaning, saying that that women only get paid 77 cents video and more time could be spent various politicians and policies, Donald Trump called all Mexicans to every dollar that men make. That discussing real social issues plaguing especially Donald Trump. Everyone rapists. Let this first be debunked figure is simply untrue. If it were true, the United States. seems to have strong opinions on by realizing that it is impossible for it would violate anti-discrimination It is time to bring intelligence and Trump but many lack the research anyone to hate Mexicans while publicly laws and be investigated. None of that facts back to political discussions in and facts to back them up. How is it loving and tweeting about taco bowls. is happening. To truly understand the America. Members of both parties that when arguing about the election, On a more realistic note, weak border “wage gap” it is necessary to look into have failed to perform proper many Americans on both sides have policies have been allowing gang where the number comes from. If one research while still insisting that become so narrow-minded that their leaders and drug lords to cross into was to add up all of the wages earned their opinion is the correct one. To only evidence to support their point America, so doesn’t he have a point? by women in America and divide those people, it is time to do some is to shout, “He’s racist” or “Lock Leftists did not like that Trump was that by the wages earned by men, the research. Instead of calling Donald her up”? The answer is simple. They one of the first politicians to describe result would be a number in the upper Trump racist, watch his speeches are ignoring facts and failing to do this harsh reality to Americans, so seventies. The 77 cents claim does not and challenge yourself to find actual proper research. instead of acknowledging the facts, come from equal paying positions, as proof. On all other issues, simply The 2016 election gave birth to a they pulled out the racist card. They feminists argue. start using resources. Don’t resort broad range of teachable moments chose to defend the feelings of illegal One real world example of feminist to common talking points without in American classrooms. New topics rapists and criminals over the spoken propaganda was shown in the aftermath evidence. Once Americans start to and arguments were discussed facts of an American. of an Audi commercial during the do this, new and better ideas will be and a new spark in youth political Cries of “racist” get even more Super Bowl. In the commercial, the formed. involvement was observed across the confusing when people say that voice of a father plays saying, “What If someone doesn’t like a policy? United States. While many became Donald Trump hates black people. do I tell my daughter? Do I tell her Fine. Doesn’t like our political more interested, it is a shame that These claims are, of course, not backed that her grandpa’s worth more than her leaders? Great. Figure out what is much of the rhetoric commonly used by evidence. One situation that lead grandma? That her dad is worth more actually going on in the world, what by both students and adults is still many to this belief was when Trump than her mom? Do I tell her that despite the best response would be, then come uneducated and oblivious, focusing was endorsed by David Duke, former her education, her drive, her skills, her back to your discussions with points too much on labels and not enough leader of the Ku Klux Klan. The media intelligence, she will automatically be to back up the opinions. Nothing can on facts and policy. was quick to call out Donald Trump valued as less than every man she ever get done when people are misguided. Although both sides of the political for this, leading the public to believe meets?” Change can only come when spectrum fell victim to the media’s that the endorsement branded Trump There was immediately backlash to Americans take the responsibility to agenda to brand the two main as a racist. There are two points that this advertisement as many pointed out thoroughly educate themselves on candidates, failure to back up claims prove these allegations to be untrue. that Audi has a wage gap of its own. the topics they are passionate about was mostly seen on the Democratic First, Donald Trump disavowed this Audi responded in a tweet, “When we and speak about such topics . side. For example, one common endorsement, showing he did not want account for all the various factors that

Is Islam too taboohere toto them. Most talk countries that have about? By Charles Petersen aging about Islam to be automatically Keith Ellison who was one of the top labeled a bigot. A famous instance of Sharia Law are horrible when it comes two contenders for the DNC chairman- Today’s Regressive Left must stop de- this was in 2014 on Real Time With to the rights of women and homosexu- ship. Ellison, the farther left choice fending an ideology that goes against Bill Maher when author Sam Harris als. In countries with Sharia Law, such to lead the DNC, is a supporter of the liberal principles. In today’s political was talking to Bill Maher about Islam. as Saudi Arabia, Yemen, Afghanistan, Muslim Brothership, an organization climate, few topics are as taboo to talk Harris said that it is totally ridiculous Sudan, etc. it is illegal to be gay which determined to spreading Sharia Law about as Islam. Many people are afraid that criticism of Islam gets conflated can result in imprisonment and even throughout the western world. Ellison to talk about Islam or to criticize it in with hatred towards Muslims. This death. In Saudi Arabia women are not ended up losing the DNC Chair to the anyway. That’s because a large portion infuriated something in Ben Affleck, allowed to drive, in Yemen women are more moderate candidate Tom Perez. of the modern-day Progressive move- another guest on the panel, who then considered only half a witness and are ment has deemed it bigoted or even called both Harris and Maher “gross not allowed to marry without the ap- Liberals and Progressives need to racist to do so. But why? Islam is not and racist.” Harris was labeled a racist proval of their male guardian. The list stop being afraid to criticize Islam and a race, it’s a religion or a set of ideas for criticizing a set of ideas. Both Har- goes on and on. None of these laws or the acts being committed in its name. so criticizing it could not be deemed ris and Maher attempted to explain the principles are the slightest bit progres- We must start promoting the true re- racist. Still, many Progressives have difference to Affleck with no success. sive and propping up people who sup- formists of the religion, people like deemed it so. They often throw around port these ideas is not progressive, but Maajid Nawaz and Ayaan Hirsi Ali, the word “Islamophobia” which is de- Another aspect of today›s Regressive rather regressive. Muslims who will stand up for liberal fined as: “Dislike or prejudice against Left abandoning liberal principles is principles and who aren’t opposed to Islam or Muslims.” with their large support for Islamic Linda Sarsour has even attacked Is- criticism of their faith. apologists. Probably the biggest exam- lamic reformist Ayaan Hirsi Ali saying, This is where a lot of the confusion ple of this is the Muslim head organizer “I wish I could take her vagina away, It’s time the left become truly liber- arises because dislike for Islam the re- of the Women’s March, Linda Sarsour. she doesn’t deserve to be a women.” al again and to stand up for women’s ligion is way different than prejudice One would think that since Sarsour This is all the more awful when you rights and gay rights all across the Unit- against Muslims as people. This is a was an organizer for the Women’s realize that Ayaan Hirsi Ali was born ed States and the world. It’s time to de- very poor word choice that lumps le- March she must be very progressive in Somalia to a fundamentalist Muslim fend freedom of speech and expression gitimate criticism of a set of religious and pro-women, but she’s far from it. family which subjected her to genital against those who try to silence and in- ideas together with bigotry toward peo- She is pro-Sharia Law, which imple- mutilation. Apologists like Linda Sar- timidate critics. True Liberals fight for ple who subscribe to those ideas. This ments laws from the Quran and the sour are not the least bit liberal. Anoth- the rights of all people, not just those leads to those saying anything dispar- Hadith and requires all citizens to ad- er example of a Liberal Apologist is they deem to be oppressed.

Editorials Editorials Editorials Editorials The Linn-Mar Life Kids must get jobs to Animal testing gain real-world skills By Kate McInroy As wonderful as it is to make If a kid didn’t read or write for money, to learn, and to have new ex- can save lives periences, there are some downsides By Jet Ly 18 years and was then expected to Institutional Animal Care and Use to having a job as a teen. For one, Penicillin, an antibiotic known for go to school and do well, society Committee (IACUC), are found at when you are in high school, you are curing many bacterial infections, would would think that absurd. In that case, every institution that does animal told to go out and get involved. For not have been discovered without the why do we expect a teen that has not testing. some, this means having a practice use of animal testing. According to worked during high school to be suc- “IACUCs approve and review research every night after school, meetings in animalresearch.info, Oxford scientists cessful in the workforce in college protocols, ensure that anesthesia and the mornings, and a weekend jam- Howard Florey and Ernst Chain used or after? One can’t truly have much postoperative medications are used packed full of activities. This kind of rats to test Penicillin’s effectiveness success in jobs later on in life if one when appropriate, and that alternatives schedule is not ideal for those with against bacteria. Animal testing has led doesn’t have job experience before to animals are sought out and integrated a part time job. Along with that, lots to advances in breast cancer, leukemia, going into the workforce. This is into studies whenever possible,” said of businesses and employers will and Parkinson’s disease. why having a job as a teen is vital amprogress.org. not hire those with low availability. The animals that we test on are to development and success later on According to Nature Genetics, animals Some turn away job candidates who extremely similar to human beings in life. that are stressed produce unfavorable are under the age of 16. in many different ways. According to test results and it is in the best interest According to TeenLife, a job al- the California Biomedical Research of the tester to not cut corners when it lows a teen to be submerged into The stress of a job can be enough to Association, “In fact, chimpanzees comes to safety and care. For example, new groups of people which can be put anyone over the edge, especially share 99% of their DNA with humans, dogs at the Cedar-Sinai Medical Center eye-opening to the teen and to those a full time student. The expectation and mice are 98% genetically similar are given exercise breaks and are put around them. Teens also feel empow- and responsibility that comes with to humans.” Because of how similar on a “toy rotation” program to ensure ered and independent when they hold a job can be too much for a student they are to us, they are susceptible to proper care. a job, which allows for the teen to trying to balance other activities and experiencing and contracting the same For a facility to receive funding experience what adult responsibility school work. Add on other activities diseases and illnesses that humans do. they must comply with the US Public is like. Having a job as a teen also and it becomes even more of a strug- A report published by NVWA, the Health Service policy. teaches life skills and teaches them gle. Netherlands Food and Consumer While animal testing has allowed how to deal with issues that may Product Safety Authority lists 479,580 Sometimes when a student works new medicines to be made, it is not arise at work. Teens with jobs also procedures conducted on animals for at a business they can be subject to always successful. have more appreciation for money scientific purposes. Now, people get scrutiny or humiliation from older “Over one hundred stroke drugs have management and for money’s worth. angry when they find out about all the workers; although this doesn’t hap- been found effective in animals in the The US Department of Labor said, animals that die for science but this pen at all workplaces, it can unfortu- lab, yet all have failed in humans. Over “By the time teens graduate from number is nothing compared to the nately be a problem teens face while 85 HIV vaccines that worked in non- high school, 80 percent will have animals that we kill for food. Nine working. human primates failed miserably when held a part-time job at some time billion chickens are eaten every year by tried in humans,” said Aysha Akhtar, during the school year. The average people in the United States, but only 26 In a perfect world, teens would be neurologist. high school student works 20 hours million animals are used for testing, a able to balance all of the aspects of Animals are often used when ethics per week, and about 10 percent work mere fraction compared to the number school, social life, and a job. Stress come into play. full time (35 hours or more).” If so we eat. as a teen is almost inevitable, but “Lives of human volunteers should many students are working, it is ob- There are many cases where people having a job can offer perks and ben- not be in danger unnecessarily,” viously because it is useful to the de- claim that animals are mistreated and efits in the long run. according to speakingofresearch.com. velopment of teens and a crucial step that animals testing is not regulated. “Experiments that involve genetic in one’s life. Senior Autumn Wedemeier works This is not true. In 1966, the Animal manipulation would be unacceptable 30 hours a week. She is also taking Welfare Act (AWA), was signed into to impose on humans before animal Although it seems like most teens two Kirkwood classes as well as a law by President Lyndon B. Johnson. testing.” are working nowadays, teen employ- couple classes at the high school. This law required animal handlers to “It’s not a good thing, but it is a ment has actually dropped over the This schedule can be hectic and chal- be licensed and registered and as of necessary evil,” said Hunter Beyer, last few decades. According to the lenging at times. 1985, all facilities that are affected Pew Research Center, 2014 was the by the AWA are required to have a senior, on animal testing. lowest rate of teen employment in the “I often attempt to play catch up a special committee that has at least one While animal testing isn’t perfect, last 40 years. Over time, the number lot of the time.” Even with this kind veterinarian and one non-company it has advanced the human race by of teens having jobs has consistently of crazy schedule, Autumn says that staff member on site to address animal discovering new technologies and new dropped. According to a Twitter poll, she believes having a job in high issues. This committee, known as the medicines. 28 percent of teens do not hold jobs school is beneficial in the long run. as high school students, which may seem like a low number, but in reali- “I not only have learned how to ty, every teen should be working. manage my time but also to choose my battles. I have learned that a job As for teens at Linn-Mar, there is more important for me, even when is quite a mix of kids who have jobs that means giving up free time.” and ones who don’t. Overall, having a job as a teen Senior Elli Hartzler did not hold teaches valuable lessons that can be a job through high school but now used for the rest of your life. Not only holds one. “I was so busy, but now do these skills help you become a that I have found time I absolutely better worker, but they also improve love working.” Hartzler says that she how you interact with others and help was lucky enough to find a job she you to become a more well-rounded loves and that works with her sched- person. A lot of students balance a ule. job, school work, and activities per- fectly fine and are learning valuable Senior Noah Martin said his job lessons about time management. can be tough and at times he doesn’t like it but he is learning how to han- So if society expects kids to learn dle lots of different situations that he to read and write before high school, wouldn’t experience if it wasn’t for society should also expect our teens his job. He also mentioned the mon- to work before going into the “real ey doesn’t hurt either. world.” Editorials Editorials The Linn-Mar Life Embarrassing moments turn into funny memories By Paige Harrington entire class. I promise you I wasn’t, during a concert my band professor, trying to explain the relationship but he thought I was so that kind of whom I knew very well, introduced between these two countries that If you ask any student they’ll likely sucked.” my solo as “The Hot Saxophone we were talking about. He said be able to tell you the most funny, Mr. Terrell is one of three band player”. I thought it was really something along the lines of disgusting, disturbing, or cringe- directors in the music department. funny but the students interpreted ‘Basically they had sex and don’t worthy moments they’ve seen “Back when we first opened up it as me having an affair with the talk to each other anymore”. I think within the walls of Linn Mar High the Color Guard to all students to professor. When they told me this they forgot that it was a classroom School. But why doesn’t anyone audition, there was a sign-up sheet I was mortified, they obviously did full of 9th graders and they were ever want to talk about their own on the wall in the hallway. And, not get the joke, and I was only pretty embarrassed. I felt kind of awkward and terrifying memories? as high school students will do, trying to break the ice!” bad.” Ten of Linn Mar’s students and staff there were names on the list that Senior Megan Burr only began Mrs. Axeen is a teacher in the got down and dirty to talk about the were false, and more importantly, attending Linn Mar her freshman English department and she loves to most embarrassing things to happen inappropriate. After school one day year. shop online. to them, either while teaching, or I was standing with one of captains “This happened like during the “It was one of my first years while being an active participant in of the Color Guard asking her about first two weeks of school, AND I teaching and I had this really the classroom. the students that I didn’t know was the new kid. I was sitting in awesome denim skirt on with a Some were very reluctant to because they weren’t in band and I class and I sneezed, except it was zipper in the back. My 9th graders answer, and others have specific was curious if they had any previous one of those that just kind of went were working hard on a project and moments ingrained in their minds. experience that could help them in everywhere, it was so awful.” I was walking around observing. Their responses are below. this program. The thought of any Erin O’Hara is a sophomore As I was walking, I noticed that Ms. Lindsay Vogt, an English of these names possibly being an involved in all things music, and my skirt was getting longer and teacher, was one of the teachers innuendo had totally slipped my who is dedicated to her school work. longer, until eventually it slid that received new furniture in the mind, so I said one of these names “I ate something bad in the straight down to my ankles. It was beginning stages of the building out loud without even realizing, and cafeteria one day and I think I got really embarrassing but none of the reconstruction, and has all new totally embarrassed the captain and food poisoning. Anyway, I was students noticed because they were chairs and tables. made myself look like a fool.” taking a test in one of my classes working so hard!” “There have been a few times Luke Sloterdyk, senior, is except we had a sub that day who Junior Katie Kreautner is involved where I would be sitting at my desk involved in National Honor Society really didn’t know what was going in almost all of the organizations and and I would literally fall out of my and SODA. on. I asked him if I could go to the clubs at Linn Mar, and absolutely chair. These chairs are just slippery “There was one time I had to fart bathroom because I thought I was despises bugs of any kind. I guess! There was also a time back but I didn’t want anyone to notice, going to throw up. He told me no “I was sitting in class one time in the old English hallway where so I tried to cough at the same time because I had to finish my test. and the girl next to me told me that I was walking back to my room as I farted to cover it up, except I Towards the end of class I threw there was a spider on me. I thought during my prep and I tripped and coughed really loud and then farted, up in the trash can because I wasn’t she was just trying to mess with fell flat on my face while there were drawing attention to myself.” allowed to go to the bathroom. I did me and was all ‘no there isn’t’ but other classes going on.” Mrs. Tiede is another band really badly on that test too and I when I looked down there was a Senior Amy Flieder is involved director in the music department. wasn’t allowed to make it up, either. small sized tarantula on my sweater in choir and show choir. “I once tried to lighten the I blame it all on the sub.” and I completely lost my mind. “One time, during a choir mood and make my students more Senior Emilee McGowan is a Everyone thought that I been shot rehearsal, Mr. Anderson went on comfortable about me being their varsity volleyball and tennis player. or something but nah, it was just a and on about how I was “yelling” teacher by telling a story about my “In my US History 1 class my spider.” instead of singing in front of the band class in college. The story is, freshman year, our teacher was

Robotics remains fun despite being challenging By Jet Ly the course 2.007, Introduction to Niemitalo began coaching and in Robotics may seem fun, Design. This was a project-based 2010 the team took on a new name, but it does not come without The crowd is riled up. The music course for students that ended in The Iron Lions. its challenges. FRC has a six- is loud. Thousands of people fill a robotics competition. Kamen Noah Etzel, better known to his week build season, January 7th the stands cheering for their team. wanted to incorporate the excitement team as Kim, is a Linn-Mar senior to February 21st, where teams Six robots are waiting on the field. of sports with the fun of science and and a member of Robotics. Etzel is must design and build a robot The countdown starts, 3...2...1. engineering into a game. In 1992, the safety captain and human player to perform and complete certain The buzzer goes off and the FRC Kamen and Flowers created FRC, for the drive team as well as one of game elements. match has begun! FIRST Robotics Competition, a the machinists for the team. “It’s rough,” said Nick Winter, According to Firstinspires.org, game geared towards high school “I ensure that everyone in the senior and leader of the pit crew. Dean Kamen founded FIRST students. environment is being safe and “The build season can sometimes in 1980 to inspire children and According to Team20.com, there treating others with mutual respect,” be more stressful than finals.” students in technology and was only one event in Manchester, said Etzel. “My other role, human FRC is not the only Robotics engineering. FIRST stands for NH and there were 28 teams present. player, is a member of the four- program that Linn-Mar offers. It “For Inspiration and Recognition Today, there are over 3,100 teams, person drive team that interacts with also has three FTC, FIRST Tech of Science and Technology.” from the United States to Vietnam, an object that is a part of the current- Challenge teams: teams 4324, “FIRST is a way for students and more than 145 events. One of year game, as well as communicate 4150, and 10107. According to to get excited about Science, these teams is Linn-Mar Team 967, between team members.” firstinspires.org, FTC is a smaller Technology, Engineering, and the Iron Lions. According to Kelsey, this year›s scale, more affordable FRC, but Math, or STEM,” said Phil According to Dan Niemitalo, a FRC game is called Steamworks. just as fun. Kelsey, senior and lead designer teacher at Linn-Mar and coach of In this game, two alliances made Interested in Robotics? You can of FRC Team 967. Robotics, the team was started in up of three teams work together see the Iron Lions compete along Kamen was joined by Emeritus 2002 by Mr. Lough, a teacher at by attaching gears to their robot with 53 other teams from March Flowers, better known as Woodie the time. At that time the team was “airship” and scoring balls, or 22nd through March 25th at the Flowers, an MIT professor, in known as the Mean Machine. The “fuel”, into goals in order to score UNI-Dome in Cedar Falls. 1990. Flowers helped to create 2008-2009 season was the year that the most points and “take off.” The Linn-Mar Life Cubbies give fans long-awaited World Champions title By Robert Read innocent fan named Steve Bartman “I was amazed. The Cubs just of their best players are not yet 30 2016 was a year Cubs fans will going after a foul ball that was still won the World Series after a 108 years old, and are under team not soon forget. For the first time playable. The Cubs seemed doomed year drought, and I was able to control for the next several years. in 108 years, the Chicago Cubs are to never be champions again. watch it happen,” said Delagardelle. Cub’s fans have suffered more than World Champions after defeating Despite these misfortunes, Cubs Emotions got the best of David any other fans over the past several the Cleveland Indians in game fans always stuck by their beloved Carey, junior, who could not control decades, and now the team is finally seven of the World Series. The Cubs team. No matter how awful the himself once the Cubs had won. able to reward them for their faith by had not been to the World Series team, or how terrible the conditions, “Being a lifelong Cubs fan, playing good baseball and bringing since 1945, and had not won the fall Cubs fans have remained faithful seeing Kris Bryant record the final a championship to Chicago. After classic since 1908. through and through, making sure out made me lose control, I started generations of a losing tradition, Coming off of a promising 2015 the bleachers at the “Friendly screaming and crying, I just couldn’t the Cubs appear to be headed campaign, the Cubs had high hopes Confines” were always full, and the believe it,” said Carey. toward future success, with more for 2016. The Cubs were expected team was always being supported. The Cubs are in position to be championships that are inevitably to not only win their division, but The year 2016 was not only big successful for years to come. Many on their way to the “Windy City”. also the World Series, expectations for the Chicago Cubs, it was also a not seen on the North Side in big year for the fans of the Chicago decades. These expectations were Cubs. Linn-Mar is home to a number not only met, but were exceeded of Cubs fans, each having their own as the Cubs owned the best record way of taking in the feeling of being in the major leagues from circuit champions. According to Drew to circuit, tallying 103 wins on the Martin, junior, he didn’t know what season in route to their first division to do. title since 2008. “At first I didn’t know how to The 2016 season also brought react,” said Martin. “Then I realized, terrific individual success for many I had just witnessed history.” Cubs players, as Kris Bryant was Ben Delagardelle, junior, sat named National League Most in disbelief after the final out, Valuable Player, and players like astonished at what he had just Anthony Rizzo and Kyle Hendricks witnessed. had the best seasons of their careers. In the playoffs, Chicago defeated the San Francisco Giants in the Patriot Super Bowl win surprises nobody divisional round, and the Los By Robert Read year also marked the first time in the opposing teams’ coaches. Angeles Dodgers in the National For the fifth time in 16 years, 51 year history of the Super Bowl This past season, the Patriots League Championship series. By the New England Patriots are Super that the game went into overtime. were stripped of their first round defeating the Dodgers in game six Bowl Champions. The Patriots Patriots quarterback Tom Brady draft pick, fined a million dollars, at cemented their victory over the set Super Bowl records for passing and had their franchise quarterback, Wrigley Field, the Cubs clinched Atlanta Falcons 34-28 in Super yards, attempts, and completions in Tom Brady, suspended four games the pennant and advanced to the Bowl LI with a two-yard touchdown route to winning the Super Bowl as punishment for the “Deflategate” World Series to play the Cleveland run by running back James White in MostValuable Player award for the scandal, where the team supposedly Indians. the overtime period. record fourth time in his illustrious tampered with the air pressure The World Series offered a The Falcons, led by league Most career. Both Brady and Patriots head in the footballs before a game. matchup between two franchises Valuable Player, quarterback Matt coach Bill Belichick made history as Both punishments were met with with long championship droughts, Ryan, caught fire in the second the first quarterback and head coach controversy as critics cited a lack the quarter, scoring 21 points and in NFL history to win five Super of evidence and maintain that very Cubs at 108 years and the Indians taking a commanding 21-3 lead Bowls. This was also Belichick’s harsh punishments were given out going 68 years without winning the into halftime. The explosive plays seventh Super Bowl title overall, as for what is considered to be very World Series. The Indians got off to continued for the Falcons at the he had also previously won two as minor incidents that appear quite a commanding lead, taking a three start of the second half, and the an assistant coach. often in the NFL. games to one lead in a best of seven team gained what seemed like an In a year where the Chicago Several Linn-Mar High School series. The Cubs then gained the insurmountable 28-3 lead over the Cubs and the Cleveland Cavaliers students were rooting for the momentum, winning the next three almighty Patriots. New England defied expectations and won Patriots to lose the Super Bowl. games of the series to ensure The then began clicking on all cylinders, Championships, the New England According to Reed Zahradnik, junior Commissioner’s Trophy would be with quarterback Tom Brady and Patriots win came as a surprise to and NFL fan, he was rooting against brought back to Chicago. wide receiver Julian Edelman nobody. The Patriots have compiled the Patriots due to his annoyance at The Cubs had not always playing some of the best football of a historic run of success and are the team’s cheating scandals, and had this success. The “Lovable their careers. With the clock ticking considered to be one of the greatest the fact that the Patriots always win. Losers” were for decades believed down at the end of the fourth quarter dynasties in not only NFL history, “The Patriots always win, and to be cursed, which served as an and the Patriots down a possession, but in sports history. Since 2001, the Falcons are a new, exciting team explanation for their crushing losses Brady led a 10-play, 91-yard-drive the Patriots have appeared in seven that I would have liked to see win,” and unbearable moments. Bad luck capped off by a touchdown and Super Bowls, winning five, and said Zahradnik. seemed to follow the Cubs from game tying two point conversion. have had 16 consecutive winning The Patriots have made their generation to generation. Collapses Heading into overtime, the Patriots seasons. mark as one of the most successful in 1969 and 1984 cost the Cubs the would again have the ball, this time While being a very successful organizations in the history of the chance to play in the World Series, with the opportunity to score a franchise, the New England Patriots NFL, but with winning comes and in 2003 star hitter for the Cubs touchdown and win. have also been met with controversy jealousy and controversy. Opposing Sammy Sosa tested positive for This year’s Super Bowl was during their championship runs. fan bases will not feel the excitement performance enhancing drugs and historic for a variety of reasons. The Patriots have been labeled for the Patriots’ victories like they was revealed to be using an illegally The Patriots trailed 28-3 halfway “cheaters” by many fans around did for the Chicago Cubs or any corked bat. Each Cub’s failure had through the third quarter, but rallied the league, due to their reputation other long-time failing franchise. a curse attached to it, whether it be to overcome the 25 point deficit to bend the rules in order to gain a People like to root for the underdog. a billy goat being removed from to defeat the Falcons in overtime, competitive advantage. In 2007, the For now, the Patriots are at the top, Wrigley Field, a black cat walking completing the largest comeback in league investigated and punished and they set the standard for what it in front of the Cubs’ dugout, or an the history of the Super Bowl. This the Patriots for illegally videotaping means to be successful come.