The Wire - Lewis Central High School - 3504 Harry Langdon Blvd. Council Bluffs, IA 51503 Issue 7

Monday, WMay 17, 2010 ecoLife Inside Look page 10 Expressions Inside Look page 11 20122012 Opinion page 8 Goodbye Seniors Special Feature pages 6 & 7

Photo by Sanjula Mahathantila Page Design Sara Rudolph The Wire Oil Rig Explodes, Spill Causes Devastation Oil spills are pretty usual with an aver- Histor y of age of three each year, but the spill on Tues- day, April 20 is more uncommon than most. May Day It is the worst offshore spill in 21 years and more than 200,000 gallons are lost each day; It is not one of the most popular holi- oh, and it can even be seen from space. days celebrated in the United States, but it The spill was caused by a Transocean still exists. It is a day where young kids run drilling rig, owned by British Petroleum (BP) from house to house dropping baskets full and known as the Deepwater Horizon, ex- of goodies hoping not to get caught. ploding in the Gulf of Mexico. The explosion Where did such a weird tradition come killed 11 people, whose bodies still have not from? May Day has said to be around even been found. A first approach was to set fire before Christ was born. For some, like the to the oil so it would be easier to remove. It Druids of the British Isles, it is the day that was successful at first, but because no fires divides the year in half, with the other half were starting at night and they were not ending on November 1. It was also cele- sure when more fires could be lit. brated during the festival of Beltane, where Another technique to stop the spill was fire symbolized the springtime sun. Cattle to send a robot-controlled submarine down were taken through fire to purify them and to seal the hole on the ocean floor. BP also couples would walk through smoke for good said along with the submarines, they have luck. sent out 700 workers and 32 vessels to clean After the Romans took over the- Brit up the oil and 4 planes to spray chemicals ish Isles, the beginning of May was still also that will help it dissolve. important to them. The Romans worshiped Monday, May 3 BP began drilling a relief Photo courtesy of SINDH Today News. Flora, the goddess of flowers. Trees were well that they hope will help seal off the cur- or civil violations by the people operating also really important; they symbolized vital- rent leak from the Deepwater Horizon. The the rig. Lawsuits are starting to be filed on ity and fertility of nature. People would cut new site is only a half mile away from the BP. A wife of one of the 11 workers missing, down birch trees, remove all branches, and well that is leaking. It is estimated to take presumably dead, has filed one saying that wrap it with streamers, making a maypole. about three months to complete this proj- the company violated numerous regula- The celebration of Floralia lasted for five ect. tions. days and was eventually added to the cel- While BP and Transocean Ltd. struggle More important than legal matters, ebration of Beltane. with the spill, citizens are weary about how the spill has brought up concerns for envi- Some of the early European settlers in much this will cost. The economy is still in ronmental issues. The oil is getting closer America started their own tradition. Peo- bad shape, and this could only make mat- to the Louisiana coast and will damage the ple would make baskets and fill them with ters worse. But President Obama assures wetlands the most if it gets there. According candy, treats, toys, and flowers. They would everyone that the government, although to newsobserver.com, the Mississippi River go to someone’s house, leave the basket, they are helping with it, will not take care Delta, the wetlands on the Gulf coast, loses and ring the doorbell. If the person caught of it alone. about 24 square miles a year. People are be- the basket giver as they were running away, “Let me be clear: BP is responsible for ginning to wonder how much the wetlands then they got a kiss. this leak. BP will be paying the bill,” Obama can take after previous damages from Hur- Today, these traditions are not very pop- said when he visited the area. ricane Katrina. ular. The biggest celebration today would be Though BP is responsible for the spill, There have already been dead sea tur- the May Day Parade and Pageant hosted by Congress and the Obama administration tles and birds covered in oil washing up on In the Heart of a Beast Puppet and Mask are working hard to help the company with shore. If too much oil reaches the coast, it Theatre. This event has taken place every this problem. Homeland Security Secretary will cause so much damage to fishermen year since 1975 in Minneapolis. May Day Janet Napolitano and Energy Secretary Ken and other citizens alike because the oysters, has been around for hundreds of years and Salazar announced a joint investigation into shrimp, crabs, and other marine life living by is a tradition celebrated in many countries the incident. The cause of the explosion has the coast will be killed. This will cause major today. not yet been determined, but is being ques- damage to the fishing industry and will in- So next year on May 1 when the door- tioned and inspected. evitably raise costs for buying the same type bell rings unexpectedly, there might be a With the ability to issue subpoenas for of seafood that are being effected with the little surprise waiting for you. public hearings, it could muster up criminal spill. Story by Chris Jensen Story by Taylor Kuhn Photo courtesy of WordPress.com Editorial Policy Letters to the Editor Reporters The Wire is the official Lewis Central student newspaper and The Wire strongly encourages responses to articles ire Bianca Zerwas is distributed free of cost to students. The opinions expressed appearing in the newspaper. The letters must be Staff Sanjula Mahathantila the Taylor Kuhn in this publication reflect those of the student writers, not the signed, legible, and concise. The staff reserves Photography Editor Lewis Central administration, faculty, or its advisor. The Wire the right to edit letters for length, grammar, and EditorsW in Chief Bridget Hall Bridget Mulligan Becca McMillen is published seven times throughout the school year by the punctuation. These letters should also be free of Christopher Jensen Copy Editor Lindsey Lawrence Sam Sutherland Suburban Times in Papillion, NE. The purpose of The Wire is profanity, vulgarity, or words with undesirable Sara Rudolph Business Editor Brandon Myers to inform students of current and relevant events, interpret meanings. Letters may be submitted to room 401 or Assistant Editor Kyralin Brown and analyze complex issues that affect students, and serve as emailed to [email protected]. Steven Elonich Taylor Jensen Tim Stokes a forum for discussion of controversial issues. 2 News Page Design Sara Rudolph May 17,2010 Text Leads to Headless Woman Fists Y N Lisa Spence, 35, has her head sent text messages, and especially are FL I G in the wrong place. That place is wouldn’t have missed her daughter’s Jab, Haymaker hook, straight, knee to the head. As the student legs give buried beneath the ground, bodiless, birthday. The police investigation out from underneath him, the other kid jumps on top of the limp body somewhere in Florida. However, led straight to Edwards, but they and lands punch after punch to the face. This is where a referee would thanks to a simple text message from couldn’t find the body, so they came call the fight, but not in a street fight or the halls of LC. This will go on beyond the grave, her body was found. up with a clever and unique plan. until someone throws the kid off. Why were these two kids fighting, does Spence’s boyfriend, Paul Edwards, The Florida police had Spence’s anyone care? 44, stabbed his girlfriend 33 times phone number reassigned to a new Surprisingly, the answer in most cases is no. Most of the people are before decapitating her and stuffing phone. That was then used to send happy to just see the fight or a video afterwards. With the uprising of her lifeless body into a barrel. Wait, Edwards a text saying “Just wait till I the sport (MMA) Mixed Martial Arts fights in school have become more it gets better. He then drove to two got better.” Within minutes, they saw exciting for viewers but more dangerous for the boys. Girls are still having locations in Florida; one to bury the Edwards run out of his residence, the same fights though, why is this? Well, for the many that have seen an body, and the other to bury the head. and get into his mother’s car. What MMA event, those who haven’t though don’t realize they have added a Before finding out of the murder, did she see in him? He’s nine years whole new set of punches and with addition of kicks, knees, elbows, and Edwards used Spence’s phone to older than her, a deranged murderer, worst of all the ground and pound. It doesn’t look good for the guy who send texts to their family saying and he still drives his mommy’s gets knocked out. The fight isn’t over when you fall; you have to protect things such as “I am sad because car? Maybe he was a good cook. yourself on the ground and through the whole fight. I will miss Paul,” and “With all that He then drove to multiple locations What about the winner? Do they get away with it? First offense is 3 days happened, he was still good to me in in Florida, one of them being out of school suspension, 2nd offense is 5 days out of school, and on the the end.” However, the family knew where the dead body lie, headless. third you are expelled. this was a lie because Spence rarely Story by Steven Elonich What if the police come in? A knockout might look great on your school record, but not on your criminal record. Knockouts are turned into assaults. St. Albert: The consequences vary from fines to sometime in Juvenile Detention Start August 17 Center, or jail depending on the age. You will also pay for your medical bill 19 days off and the person you left laying on the ground in a crumpled up mess. School 10 school days off for winter Now this is not MMA’s fault. It is a real sport like football or basketball. break It is the imitators that cause trouble. Not to crush dreams, but the Calendars Seniors last day May 12 likelihood of you becoming a UFC star is less than becoming a NFL Pro-bowl Graduation May 16 lineman. This is due to the fact MMA is not introduced in school or college After a bizarre winter this End May 21 levels. Sorry, if you want to do some MMA find your own gym. year with all the snow days, the Story by Tim Stokes school calendar for next year has a lot of changes. A shortened winter break and only one more Council Bluffs: snow make-up day are sure to Start August 13 bring in students’ attention. 25 days off School will begin on Aug. 19 and 10 school days off for winter end on May 25, as long as there break are not more than three snow Seniors last day May 13 make-up days. But the make-up Graduation May 16 days are on Feb. 14 and March End May 26 18, so if there is another double triple snow day, those days most likely will not go to waste as they would if they were in early January. Lewis Central: However, this is certain to get Start August 20 your attention: winter break has 17 days off been shortened—again—to a 8 school days off for winter break measly 11 days. Seniors last day May 20 Story by Chris Jensen Graduation May 23 End June 4 Taking their last stab at each other, seniors Ashley Narmi and Melissa Fuerst wrestle it out at after prom. After prom had many fun events to do, like the obstacle course, football throw and poker table. Photo by Bridget Mulligan Page Design Taylor Kuhn News 3 The Wire

BaseballThey both take place in the summer; involve bats, gloves, vs. and balls. Does baseball Softball become harder with a smaller ball or is it easier? The big question is which is harder baseball or softball? Who works harder? Now the two big differences between softball and baseball is ball size. This size difference drastically changes the pitching style of the two sports. The baseball is lighter and smaller which makes the over hand pitch perfect for the sport. With the over hand pitch comes with a lot of options such as the regular fast ball, curve ball, and change ups. Softball use the under hand pitch but with this the ability to change your pitches is limited to in strike zone or outside. So when it comes to pitching and hitting baseball makes it a lot more difficult to hit. For softball though the ball also makes it more difficult to catch. Due to the bigger size and padding, softballs are less likely to hit the web, or net, of the glove which makes it easier to rollout. Now, which sport produces a better multi-sport athlete? To see this we have to pull the two big stars on the teams. For baseball, Denver Lohnes is the main star, but Lohnes doesn’t just shine on the baseball field; he also is an all state second team half back and also is a two time track state qualifier. Brittnie Kreiser is a softball star, good enough to be Daily Nonpareil’s athlete of the week, power lifter and also a cheerleader. On an average day the normal adult male should take a little over 3,000 steps. Meeting that goal is no problem for the softball and baseball team. The softball girls run poles, base cycles, straight sprints on top of strength training and power lifting. The baseball boys are running poles agility/cones, side to side, and along with strength medicine ball, power tosses and GSP ropes. Every Wednesday you can find the baseball boys on a fun run. But don’t let the name fool you, it’s no picnic. Then they do the rest of a normal practice. No matter which sport your in, Baseball or Softball, you will work extremely hard and be part of state worthy teams. With a new season around the corner there will be all new grades of athletes. For baseball keep your eye on sophomore Ryan Simmons with his elbow back to normal. He will be a big hitter on the field and also a star With practice barely underway, rain caused softball players player all around. For softball look out for freshman Alli Martinez, she will be playing varsity catcher and can only improve as she goes along. to move indoors. Photo by Sanjula Mahathantila Story by Tim Stokes

Sophomore Kassi Nauman Playing with Confidence uses her Focus. One word that can make or Many people think that golf is boring Golf players have all sorts of different pitching break any game someone plays. One simple and pointless, that it takes too much ways to become better at the sport. Some wedge to smack of a ball for example, can make the concentration and thinking about how find it easier when they are with those who accurately difference in placing first or seventh place. to put a stupid little white ball into the are completely devoted to the team, but land on the A lot of people think “If I only would have small hole at the end of a golf course. others may find it better to just take it slow green. done this one thing differently, I would But when a student asks if they have ever and easy. Whatever they are doing must be Photo by have played so much better.” For some even attempted to try to play the game, working because they have gotten better Bianca students though, having fun and relaxing the answer is often no. Although that is this year. Zerwas can be their form of focusing. If they think predictable, people should not make that “Players are starting to play with to hard, the game gets repetitive after a assumption. more confidence, and their scores are while. “It helps if the people I am playing with improving,” Coach Steve Koester said. “I always do two practice swings, look are more talkative and fun, and aren’t dead “They should finish the year pretty good. at the hole twice, and then swing away,” serious about their game,” sophomore With some work through the off season, sophomore Kassi Naumen said. “Hopefully Kelsey Brant said. “I just take it one swing there will be a lot to look forward to in the the ball will head the right direction.” at a time.” next couple years.” Story by Bianca Zerwas

Senior Bridget Hall has been involved in such activities as swimming, track, Speech, NHS, Activity Council, Yearbook and Newspaper throughout her four years of high school. Hall has been the master behind the seniors and athletes of the issue throughout the entire 2009-2010 school year. In fact, she is writing this one right Senior now, about herself. Her favorite color is red and she enjoys a good nap in the afternoon. If she had the choice between winning the lottery or going to the Olympics she would choose to participate in the Olympics because it’s a once in a lifetime event, and she could always buy another lottery ticket. Hall’s best memory of when she was a young child is the days her and her brother would race downstairs so they wouldn’t miss the hit TV show The Mighty Morphin Power Rangers. When she was younger she dreamed of becoming of the a dentist because they make the big bucks. If Hall could visit one place on earth it would be Spain, because Mrs. Thomsen talks about it so much and she wants to know what so great about it. If Hall could give one piece of advice to underclassmen, it would be this: “Never go in the stall without the toilet paper; always carry gum or breathe mints in your bag; and procrastination isn’t the right thing, but it sure gets things done a lot faster.” Story by Bridget Hall Issue Photo by Sanjula Mahathantila 4 Sports Page Design Taylor Jensen May 17, 2010 A Close-Up Look at D.C. Music Students More than a scenic tour, the Close-Up nam wall, it was like a completely differ- program takes us through history and in- ent place. With all that we saw it entailed inBrief troduces us to the present by taking stu- quite a bit of walking; everyone was ready to Texas in 2011 dents on a tour of Washington D.C. The to crash by the end of the night. StuCo/NHS goal of this educational program is to get We saw the Holocaust museum that Imagine going to a different state, Congratulations to the 2010-2011 students involved with their political com- made us want to cry. The Museum of Nat- meeting new people, and seeing lots of Student Council Officers: munities and be a part of the decisions ural History that showed us things you amazing new things. This trip is not a our leaders make. can’t find anywhere else, like the Hope family vacation, but a school trip with 250 President - Jenna Ladd Along with seeing the monuments Diamond. We saw the Library of Con- of your friends and peers. Vice President - Kait Madsen and countless museums, the close-up in- gress and the House of Representatives, In March of 2011, the Choir and Secretary - Madison Massey Band program will be taking a trip to San structors helped us to learn more about which was both educational and inspira- Treasurer - Natalie Olberding Antonio, Texas. The whole group will take our nation’s history and the people tional. The places we saw and the things Deluxe Motorcoach buses to San Antonio. Congratulations to the around us. In this group there were peo- we learned are unlike anything that can Six Flags is the first stop after arriving. After 2010-2011 NHS Officers: ple from Alaska, Michigan, Chicago, Ari- be taught in a classroom, and we got to a fun day of play a stay in a deluxe hotel is President- Joe Stokes zona, as well as several foreign exchange experience five days of this trip. in order. Other places are Sea World and Vice President Paityn Korner students. In our group, two worlds collid- The schedule started with a the River walk where and taking a cruise Secretary - Jessica Brickey ed; those who could hear, and those who wake-up call at seven o’clock and did not down the river before taking a night trip Treasurer - Tayler Schnitker could not. The translators helped, along end until eleven o’clock that night. We through El Mercado for shopping culture. with our own initiative, to communicate had the opportunity to meet with our For one of the dinners is the Canyon Trail and become friends with one another. representatives and ask them any ques- Chuckwagon supper and Cowboy Music Show, which is an original smoked brisket We were able to engage in several ac- tions we had about our community. With DanceCongratulations to theTeam members of the dinner while listening to the tales of Texas tivities to learn about each other and that so much to see, it was worth the lack of 2010-2011 Dance Team: Longhorn cattle drive. After dinner they made the week’s events so much more sleep to see our nation’s capital, the clean start the “How the West Was Sung” show. Jenna Ladd Ayzia Barr fun. In one day, our group covered most streets, the history, and all the different Another night will be a San Antonio Spurs Alli O’Brien Lindssey Mastropietro of the war and presidential memorials; cultures. This was definitely a trip to re- game that they will possibly be performing from the steps of the Lincoln monument, member, and one to repeat. at and visiting the historic Alamo. Sabrina McKeever Kaitlyn Reif to the heart aching names on the Viet- Story by Bridget Mulligan The cost of the trip will be around $600 Sami Schaefer Kait Madsen Morgan Shockey Sara Paff Seven students per person, and Mr. Johnson, Miss Wragge, will be leaving the country and Mr. Walters have planned various Taylor Stuart Allison Larkin this summer to take a trip fundraisers to help students pay their trip Melanie Ellis Janna Hargis of a lifetime. fees. The beginning of March was their first Kelsay Kipe Jessica Kjeldgaard Shaylia Barber, fundraiser. They sold cookie dough and Taylor Fauble Kelsey Walker Colette Berding, Haleigh other food items from Deli International. Alexa Barr Bailey Bowen Hansen, Mary Harvey, The first payment of $100 dollars was due Lindsey Lawrence, on April 1. The students made $44,000. The Leezil Sergeant, and next fundraiser is selling discount restraunt Rachel Schrader will be and vendor coupon books, then two others Prom 2010 traveling to Europe and The LCHS junior and senior prom themed sightseeing in Germany, are recycling fundraisers and the final one “The Streets of France” went on without Czech Republic, Austria, they will be selling food again. a hitch. The Durham Western Heritage and Hungary from June “Everyone is so excited and trying Museum was decorated with Eiffel towers 21 to July 4. Students really hard to raise the money to go,” and red, black, and white balloons for Curtis Goos, Riley Hester, sophomore Sabrina Patrick said. “It will be the year’s biggest formal dance. Students and Connor Murray from amazingly fun to be with so many of our received water bottles and photo Treynor High School are peers on one trip.” albums as gifts at the end of the dance. traveling with the group. Story by Sam Sutherland Congratulations to prom King Derek Photo by Bridget Mulligan Sevener and Queen Bridget Hall. Senior Dan Rieck has participated in such sports and activities as golf, basketball, football, jazz band, marching band, and basketball band throughout his four years of high school. Rieck’s favorite food to chow down on is Kraft Macaroni and Cheese. When he was little he dreamed of growing up to be a fireman because he was enthralled with the big red fire truck and the big shiny poles they got to slide to down to get to it. Senior If Rieck was given the choice between being a rock star or a movie star he says he would choose rock star hands down because he plays the bass guitar. Rieck’s favorite season is spring because it is golf season and his favorite professional golf player is Anthony Kim. If he had the choice between traveling back in time or traveling to the future, he says he would go back to the past. Rieck said if he was given the chance to be one person on any day, he would have been Phil Mickelson the day he won the Master’s. His most embarrassing moment of the was at basketball game when he accidently pulled down his shorts along with his sweatpants. After graduating Rieck plans to attend Iowa Western Community College for one year and then transfer to the University of Iowa to study music business, where he plans on becoming a producer. One piece of advice Rieck would give underclassmen is this: “Get out while you still can.” Issue Photo by Bridget Mulligan Story by Bridget Hall Page Design Taylor Jensen Activities 5 Oh the places they will go Where they have been The Lewis Central High School Senior Class of For most seniors, those three painstakingly a big fat zero was what your parents would see on to go] wherever life leads me,” senior Mark long years of middle school were filled with lunch those report cards when mid-term came around. People come and people go, 2010 Hamilton said, “I plot to save the world but detentions, A.R. quizzes, their first speech ever, and Teachers used threats such as “If you don’t get in but everyone has the power I don’t know how I’ll do it yet. Maybe I’ll of course, Mrs. Wallace. At the time all were unaware done in middle school, you’ll never make it in high Request the honor of your presence to change a life. As the seniors cure cancer.” of the liberation high school would bring, and were school” or “Just wait until you get into the real world.” at our Commencement Cenemonies Many memories are made in a school just happy to say they were out of grade school. At the sound of these words, mouths shut and pin prepare to graduate this year, building and leaving them as just a memory What happened though in that medium between drop could be heard from miles away. underclassmen are forced to can be harder for some people than others. childhood and adolescence? “I was way more motivated in middle school. I adjust to the loss of several Adjusting is difficult, especially when “Boys were always a problem and you would actually did my homework and did it well. Now it just Sunday, the 23rd of May leaving so many good friends and teachers. stay up all night talking to them on the phone or on eventually gets done,” senior Kristina Kempton said. friends. As seniors move on At one-thirty in the afternoon “I’ll miss seeing all the people here,” Mouw AIM,” senior Brittney Coon said. While the insecurities that most everyone felt into the big world it may be said. Yes, middle school was a time when the boy in middle school have been partially if not entirely High School Gymnasium reassuring to know what they Overall high school causes a craze swept the halls almost as fast as the cooties wiped away, the memories still linger of three years plan to do. transformation in people that perhaps no they carried with them. Along with boys came spent waiting to get out. The scars of time spent Class Moto Now, looking to the future seniors other experience can achieve. It molds finding out how to dress oneself. No one wanted to waiting to be dismissed table by table at lunch or “Do not go where the path may lead; go in- have a broad expanse of opportunities people to their future and leaves its show up in bellybutton high jeans and a t-shirt with embarrassment of not having ones fitness routine stead where there is no path and leave a trail.” ahead of them and some have changed memories lingering in the back of the mind. a picture of you and your grandma plastered all over memorized eventually faded, but were not forgotten. their outlook on that future based on what One can never forget ones high school the front. There are the select few though that choose to -Ralph Waldo Emerson they experienced in school. “I’ll be going experience; they can keep their good “In middle school all girls focused on was getting believe middle school was no different from the rest to Iowa State for engineering,” senior Matt memories of it forever. It is better to leave ready in the morning,” Coon said. of their lives. Mouw said, “I did not know that I wanted all the negatives behind and focus on the On the academic side of the spectrum there “In middle school I was brilliant, mature, and Class Flower to be in engineering till after my freshman positive. Then everyone can look toward were the teachers always hounding students for far wiser than my years let on,” English teacher Kim White Rose year.” the future with anticipation and use the homework. If papers weren’t handed in on time, McLaughlin said. While some have a specific career in Story by Bridget Hall experience they gained in high school to Class Song mind, some are a little more vague. “[I plan plan for the future. Story by Kyra Brown “On My Way” by Phil Collins

Design by Lindsey Lawrence Photos by Sanjula Mahathantila and Bridget Hall The Wire Dear Freshmen Opposing Views Doomsday 2012 Believers Non-Believer Story by Steven Elonich and Sara Rudoph Story by Chris Jensen Recently, after an abnormally large number of natu- As Dec. 21, 2012 gets closer, some people might start ral disasters such as earthquakes, “dormant” volcano ac- to buy generators and prepare for the day the world will tivity, and Michelle Obama, many people are beginning end. But honestly, planet Earth does not have an expira- Christopher Jensen to believe in the apocalyptic theories pointing toward tion date, like the Mayans predicted. Ten bucks says on Editor in Chief December 21, 2012. the day following the prophecy, the Mayans who created To those freshmen who did not participate Everyone is going to die. It will rain fiery hail and the the calendar laugh up in Heaven (or Hell) and force every- in any school activity this year, I would like to earth will be destroyed by earthquakes. These predic- one to say “I’m [insert name] and I’ve just been punk’d.” encourage them to try joining one next year. I tions are confirmed by three separate sources: the Ma- The Mayans are known to be experts in astrology and say this because by this time senior year, it can yans, Nostradamus, and the Bible. What are the odds time, but does that really give them any credibility to be have a big impact on their life. I used to think that they all predicted the same outcome on the same able to predict the day the world will end? A little, I guess, it would be boring and a waste of time, but my day? but meteorologists are supposed to be “experts” with the view of school spirit changed completely once I Nostradamus lived almost 1,000 years after the Ma- weather, but they can barely predict what the forecast joined the newspaper staff. yans. Not only was there a huge time gap, but there was will be in a week. At the beginning of twelfth grade, most also an entire ocean between them. It is hardly possible Lately it seems like there have been more disasters seniors think about how much they love being that their predictions could have been copied. Addition- happening than usual. The volcanoes in Europe, earth- the oldest in the school, but toward the end ally, the Bible was written approximately 500 years before quakes happening everywhere, swine flu in ’09, and Brit- the athletes, performers, etc. all start realizing the Mayans even existed. The three sources are way too ney Spears returning to the music industry. But disasters it’s almost over. The senior football players will similar to be a coincidence. like these have been happening and will continue to hap- always remember their very last game, drama All signs will point to the Apocalypse, such as more pen forever. There was the bird flu in the mid-2000s and members will always remember the last play devastating earthquakes, more active volcanoes, anda the Alaska oil spill in ‘89. People are just paying more at- they perform, and students in show choir will future Cubs World Series. Not only are all those signs tention now than ever. always remember their last concert. Just like coming true, but the third “anti-Christ” is among us: We have survived terrorist attacks, flu epidemics, them, the seniors on newspaper will always Barack Hussein Obama. and even the fake bomb threats on a paper airplane that remember their last paper. Try to look on the bright side; you are going to die, someone threw in school back in September. After all This is the 16th issue I have been in and but so will Bo Pelini, Sarah Palin, and Tom Cruise. Brett that, and a lot more, I think we can handle a preposter- the 37th story. I recently looked back at all the Favre, however, will decide to come back, yet again. ously petty prediction. previous issues and was so impressed with how much my writing has improved with the help of my adviser and the last two editors. It is really making a huge impact on me to know that this is the last newspaper I will be a part No Phones, No iPods, No Fresh Air? of… or will it? After going through the pros and Lunch is a lot of students’ favorite part liter. What would be best is if we just have happier. The sun is a good source of vitamin cons of all the career paths I have been inter- of school. You get to talk to your friends and the option for a change in scenery. But there D, which everyone needs to be healthy. Also ested in, I have finally came to my senses by you can eat food too. But there are some could be some problems with the weather. if students got more sun, less people in our choosing journalism. But whether I will write problems with the lunch situation. You’re Knowing Iowa weather, not every day school would look less like they fell out of for newspapers, magazines, or be in broadcast, in a room with a bunch of other people would be good to go outside. To fix this prob- a book about vampires, all pale and every- I have not yet figured out. and sometimes it’s hard to hear what your lem, the outside lunch option could only be thing, and if students are happier maybe Though I am sad to leave newspaper, I am friends are saying, or there’s so many people available on the days that the teachers and they won’t get as angry and there will be also relieved it’s over; it’s pretty tough being in coming in and out of lines in a smaller area principals decide that it is nice enough to go less fights at school. They also wouldn’t charge of a publication. I really had to put in that its hard to avoid running into someone. outside. This would mostly be at the begin- need to go tanning quite as much, there- a lot my free-time to make it a success; even These problems could easily be solved with ning at end of the year, but it would still be fore saving money and making them hap- though there will always be some minor errors, one change, where we eat lunch. Instead of better than not at all. Not everyone always pier. Plus most people will be happier just and sometimes major. It is time, however, for the cafeteria lunch could be eaten outside. follows the rules though. sitting in the sun. my co-editor and me to step down as the edi- Of course it would be an option, be- Some administrators might argue that if So, pretty much outdoor lunch would tors and pass on the position, which has been cause not everyone wants to sit outside ev- we got the option of going outdoors, some solve a lot of problems at out school. More given to Steven Elonich and Sara Rudolph. ery day. It wouldn’t have to be all or noth- students might take the freedom too far, people would be happy, and healthy. Sure, This is what I got out of being involved in ing; there could be some tables outside and and leave campus completely. This could there are some issues, but they can eas- a school activity. So all of you freshmen who more tables inside. We wouldn’t even nec- be prevented though. We can have some of ily be solved. There would be some adjust- aren’t in any activities should actually think essarily have to change what we have right the faculty who stand around in the lunch ments to make if the administration let us about joining something next year to see what now in the cafeteria; we could simply put room, stand around outside, or have se- have outdoor lunch, but they could eas- they can get out of it. Lewis Central has a lot to some tables outside the back door of the curity cameras installed, and students that ily be made. Outdoor lunch is a good idea offer; there are sports from basketball to golf, cafeteria, where there is a large field that leave campus without permission could that the administration should look at, and the drama department, art and pottery club, isn’t in use most of the time. Students could have their outdoor privileges taken away. decide to choose to let us enjoy the great yearbook, GSA, speech, and plenty. And if their go in and out, and there could be garbage Another benefit of outdoor lunch outdoors. interests are of the journalistic variety, they cans outside to make sure students don’t is that it would make students healthier and Story by guest writer Rebekah Piercy might even want to consider joining The Wire.

8 Opinion Page Design Chris Jensen May 17, 2010 New Law in Arizona, Hispanics Distraught Last month AZ gov. Jan Brewer come here illegally? People break the citizenship. But guess what, illegal im- signed a bill that is meant to identify, laws all the time, but it seems to me migrants pay taxes, too; they still get prosecute, and deport illegal immi- that people are most critical toward il- money deducted from their paycheck grants. This law allows police to pull legal immigrants. This sounds racist, but like legal citizens do. Though there are anyone over and demand to see proof some people defend themselves by say- some that don’t pay taxes, be it because of citizenship. I always thought the Unit- ing they don’t like it because they are their bosses just give them money for ed States was getting better at not- be taking up jobs. their work or some other reason, a lot ing racist, but AZ’s new law just puts up Most people who employ illegal of them still have to pay taxes. more barriers with civil rights. immigrants know that they’re illegal Whether they pay taxes or don’t, or Lindsey Lawrence The police are supposed to pull peo- because they don’t have a green card. if they have a job a legal citizen could Editor in Chief ple over if there is ‘reasonable suspicion’ Do you really want that type of job, or have or don’t, it doesn’t take away from Saying goodbye to high school seems that they are in the US illegally. But the would you rather strive for a better job the fact that this law does discriminate like a difficult concept to grasp…when you only suspicion they can have is by notic- that doesn’t always have to pay in cash. against others by allowing police to aren’t days away from actually doing it. I ing their race. Just because they may be The main reason we even have illegal im- check anyone they deem fit to be con- am so excited to graduate and get out of Hispanic, doesn’t mean they are illegal. migrants is because people hire them. If sidered illegal. here, sort of. This school has defined me The bill should clarify that they can ask people didn’t hire them, there would be President Obama has even stressed as a person, a student, and a kid. Everyone a person for their birth certificate if they no jobs here for them to have, and re- his opposition to this bill, and that’s a around us is giving us the boot. I know us have been told there’s a possibility they ally no reason for them to be “taking our big thing because usually presidents seniors probably smell funny, but not as bad are illegal from other citizens, whom- jobs” as the common ‘non’-racist would don’t get involved with state laws, they as the freshmen (last freshmen joke *tear*) It makes me think of other transitions ever it may be, such as an employer or say about the subject. Another defense let the governors deal with them. If my class has had together, the move from neighbor. people use might be about how we as Obama even chooses to let the media Lakeview to Central to Kreft and so on. The police shouldn’t even be the Americans have to pay taxes for them to know he’s against this bill, that should Looking back I don’t know why I was so ones looking for illegal immigrants, the be here. say something AZ and make them con- nervous, but I know I wasn’t the only one. I country should work harder at border Americans do basically pay taxes sider repealing the law. Or at least make also had my friends and many familiar faces control instead of discriminating against for everything. They pay it for people them change it enough so that it isn’t to comfort me when I was afraid. anyone who may or may not be legal. with low income, mental or physical in- discrimination. The hardest part about this transition is But does it really matter that people stability, and yes, the lack of American Story by Chris Jensen not knowing where I am going. For 13 years, that’s most of our lives, we have been given directions to do everything. Lewis Central gives so many advancement opportunities so we can get a head start in life, but I don’t think anything could prepare me to give this biggest chunk of my life up.Now I have to leave my comfort zone. I have always been To: Yulrich at Lewis Central. Everywhere I have gone I From: Hamlet have had people who knew me who I could feel safe around. And now I have to move on Message: 2b or Nt 2b, tht is the ?. to something better. Wthr 2 live r let di. My only fear going in to college is building that comfort zone back up. This is Are cellphones where I will be living, learning, and growing To: Romeo From: Hamlet up for four or more years. I want to be happy. I’m sure I need this separation, in the real Mesage: Hey Homee! Wassup? world you won’t know everyone you have to really killing Hws that new girl, Juliet? work with. As I think about my last of everything (last time I go to my locker, last composition class, last column). I also think about all of the work I put into my time here. I have been literature? in newspaper since freshman year and had many leadership positions. Finally leaving it all behind and giving everything I have worked for to someone else was exciting just a month ago. No more late nights working on pages, no more deadlines to worry about, it’s like freedom. Now I don’t know what I’m going to do, what is all that time good for if I can’t `just stay here and continue doing what I have been doing? Cartoon by James Hodge

Page Design Taylor Kuhn Opinion 9 The Wire People Reminisce as CWS Moves to New Location “The greatest show on dirt.” This ing customers with carnival-like games simple slogan carries with it sixty glori- and loud rock music. “I like walking ous years of victories, homeruns, and around, buying team hats, and going dreams come true. From the sight to the Nike Store. Seeing all the people of the flawlessly manicured field to is crazy,” junior Brett Vanderpool said. the smell of dozens of concessions, Also contributing to the environ- nothing can beat watching a College ment, fans dress in whatever way they World Series game at Rosenblatt Sta- feel best displays their support for their dium. The glory years of Rosenblatt, team. Seas of Carolina Blue and Texas however, will soon come to an end. Orange are prevalent, and body paint is June 19th, 2010 will bring the not uncommon. “The craziest thing is last College World Series played people’s own creations. One guy made at legendary Rosenblatt Stadi- a hat with chains and medals. I can’t um. After this year, it will move to even describe it,” Vanderpool said. Built in 1948 the Rosenblatt Stadium has hosted the College World Series and is now pre- its new location across from the Although the College World Series paring for its final run. Qwest Center; TD Ameritrade Park. is only moving a few blocks, it feels like Photo by Bridget Mulligan The environment might be the most it is leaving the country. The days spent anticipated, and most missed, part of at Rosenblatt sporting sunglasses tan the College World Series. For a week, lines and hitting beach balls around Quick Money $$ every inch of 13th Street is crammed the security guards are almost over, $$ with vendors from all over the coun- and it is a little sad. “[I remember] try selling everything from keepsake the first game I ever went to. It was Jobs for Teens T-shirts to souvenir leather baseball a championship game; the one where Getting money as a teenager is hard to come by. They may not be old enough to get bracelets laced with each team’s col- Texas won,” Vanderpool said. The a job or just too lazy to go out and find a job. Here are some quick and easy ways to make ors. That one little block where Rosen- stadium itself may be gone, but the money over the summer. blatt sits becomes as crowded as New memories made there will last forever. While at the pool or the park there are many of parents and children running around. York City on a Saturday night, beckon- Story by Sara Rudolph Chances are that they are hot and thirsty. Make an assortment of ice cold drinks and sell them at a reasonable price. Even more, go to the city fields where kid’s games are, where there are tons or parents just waiting for a cheap drink to cool off with. Another way to make money is mowing yards. Many older people aren’t able to do what they use to be able to do. Make a decent offer and mow their lawn once or twice a week. A drive around the neighborhood looking for lawns that need to be mowed and handing out flyers could get you more jobs too. Become a nanny or babysitter over the summer. Many parents would rather not pay expensive daycares to watch their kids; many are often looking for a teenager that they can trust. Go around offering their services and there will most likely be some takers. Walking dogs is another quick way to make money. Dogs need cared for too and to some people, their dog is their life so they are willing to pay someone to care for their dog while they are away at work, vacation, or just out on the town. If all else fails offering your artistic ability might work, if any at all. Some people think the best time to paint a house or room is during the summer time because of the beautiful weather. The thing is, they are busy and most likely exhausted afterwards. So lend a hand and make some extra money this summer. Story by Sam Sutherland Life eco taking it for a ride. There are bike trails if the bag says it is made from non-wo- And if none of this stuff appeals to you With possibly the worst environ- all over Council Bluffs, so try riding it for ven polypropylene, then don’t get it. at all, but you still want to improve your mental disaster ever happening in the a change. Or maybe, if the distance is These bags are made out of the same “carbon footprint,” or impact on the en- Gulf of Mexico, there is going to be short, just walk to wherever they are go- material as plastic bags: petroleum. vironment, help clean up the river. There a spike in the need for people to ‘go ing. But for those who are not into biking You might even have to start fishing are a lot of different ways to help out with green.’ The Gulf area is losing so much or walking everywhere, consider taking for yourself. The oil spill is destroying a it. Start by just picking up trash near it so it oil that people can only expect a bad the bus or carpooling more often. Any of lot of seafood and the prices of the food doesn’t end up in the water later, maybe outcome of it. While the oil company these ways would save so much more oil. could only increase because of it. Think put some trashcans up in some areas so executives and clean-up crews scramble Different things that help to save oil about it, next time you buy some sort of people have a place to actually dispose of over fixing the oil leak, here is what stu- but don’t include the black, sticky stuff seafood, won’t you be even a little curi- their garbage. Go to riverrelief.org to find dents can do to assure a greener life. are reusable grocery bags. You can just ous to know if it came from the Gulf of out more information on how to clean Unless you own a car that is com- get one and use it for small trips, or get Mexico area or not? And if you do de- up the river and to see when the Oma- pletely independent of oil, consider ten or twenty for the longer trips. But be cide to do your own fishing, still be care- ha/Council Bluffs 2010 Clean-up starts. getting your bike out of the garage and cautious when purchasing these bags; ful, the Missouri River is polluted too. Story by Chris Jensen 10 Inside Look Page Design Becca McMillen May 17, 2010 In-Depth: Oh My Eyjafjallajokull Expressions Volcanic ash in Europe causes disturbance for travelers as they try to fly back home The volcanic eruptions of Eyjafjal- more powerful and occurred under- flight from Amsterdam to Dusseldorf. Story by Bridget Mulligan lajökull, Iceland in April 2010; may not neath glacial ice. The water from the On April 19 and 20 some commercial Everyone has a unique way that they have resulted in any casualties but it melting ice chilled causing glass like flights were allowed to travel in North- can express who they are. For some, their certainly disrupted the lives of mil- particles and ash to form. Much of this ern Europe and by April 22 most airline creativity defines them; it’s what they live lions of people throughout the world. ash plume, entered into the jet stream companies returned to their normal for. All you have to do is look around to see The volcano had not erupted since the and it was feared if aircraft flew over flight schedules. the talent your classmates are going to use 1800’s, which is actually not that long these areas that plane engines would be- Although no lives were lost many to make their mark on the world. of a gap between eruptions consider- come damaged. As a result, planes were Europeans were left unhappy due to their There are so many ways to define an ing some erupt every 1,000 years or so. The grounded in over 30 countries that placed inability to travel. Approximately five mil- artist, you could go with the literal form like first eruption which took place in March restrictions and an estimated 120 million lion people were stranded or couldn’t fly someone who paints or draws, like seniors did not result in a major evacuation or any dollars was lost every day. throughout the world. The delays were Chris Driver and Tanya Perez. Their work is real damage. Restrictions were lifted for many said to be much greater than those that displayed so that students are able to have The eruptions which took place countries on April 18 when a Dutch took place after the events of Septem- a brighter day. Driver’s artwork was recently in April were said to be several times airline successfully completed a test ber 11, 2001. Story by Brandon Myers displayed for the Hawkeye 10 art show for all to see. Perez’s work can be seen everyday just by walking down the activities hallway. Another way students passionately express their talents is through dance. Whether it be for show choir or a dance team like sophomores Kaitlyn Reif or Rob Stokes. Both proudly represented our school this year as part of Lewis Central’s dance teams. There are also those who make it their top priority to capture those best moments of high school. The photographers and writers of the yearbook and newspaper work year round to show students the highlights and the changes students have gone through in the years. Students like junior Joe Stokes, sophomores Sanjula Mahathantila, Ashley Photo by Google and Bianca Zerwas, excel and just that. They go to incredible lengths to capture every moment after every win and loss, so you can have those moments forever. INCURABLE GONORRHEA? The students who live for what they are passionate for will be the ones to use their Penicillin won’t help this itch gifts to change the world. There are so many We all know that STDs are common in everyday all those who are infected know it. Undiagnosed cases, doctors did that, strains of bacteria morphed to make people in our school working to make our life. In fact, they are so common that there are many or infections that are unsuccessfully treated and then antibiotics less effective. students body proud, and as the seniors types of medicine and treatment options available. stay around without obvious symptoms can create Other drug-resistant STDs can also become an leave, we know they will do right and never But as it so happens, an incurable form of gonorrhea serious health problems. For example, teenage girls issue. About 30 percent of females who contract forget the moments they made as they may be on its way. Soon, the world may be facing a between the age of 15 and 19 account for more cases gonorrhea are also infected with Chlamydia. While expressed themselves in high school. version of this STD that can’t be killed by any known than any other age group. If they aren’t cured, they Chlamydia seems to respond well to medications so antibiotic. risk pelvic inflammatory disease, infertility, or ectopic far, a small number of strains have shown signs of In past years, the disease has developed pregnancies. Those who are infected with gonorrhea developing drug resistance. gradually. Medications that have been proved to kill are also three times more likely to become infected Syphilis has already become resistant to one the bacteria have become less effective. There is one with HIV if they come into contact with the virus. The drug used to treat it called azithromycin. The good How to stop gonorrhea: class of antibiotics, however, called cephalosporin. other major cost is the infection to children born to news is that penicillin still works against syphilis. The •Don’t forget to use protection. Yes, it Cephalosporin is basically just another fancy word for infected mothers. Rarely, you can get gonorrheal treatment however, is probably not something we DOES help. an antibiotic belonging to a group of semi synthetic infections of heart valves and arthritis. would want to do. There has been no credible data antibiotics with a broad range of effectiveness. It Gonorrhea also has a long history of being hard to suggest that syphilis has been able to adapt to •Get checked up every once in awhile. closely relates to penicillin. But now, even some to treat. In the 1930s, sulfa-based drugs worked, but penicillin since the drug attacks a critical site on the STD testing is not a bad thing! strands of those gonorrhea are becoming resistant soon lost the ability to treat the bacteria as it adapt. bacterium that is important to the survival and can’t to even that, says Catherine Ison, the director of the Then, penicillin became the most common antibiotic be changed. •If you do have gonorrhea, make sure sexually transmitted bacteria reference library with in the 1940s. Soon, this miracle drug offered hope Of course, it’s better to just prevent any of you know how to treat it. Go see a the United Kingdom’s Health Protection Agency. Ison that the scourge of “VD” could be wiped out. Penicillin these infections in the first place. Being tested for gynecologist. also mentioned that if this problem isn’t addressed, was probably a miracle, but eventually, doctors had to STDs and using condoms are the same techniques gonorrhea will become very difficult to treat. use more and more to kill the bug. But still, a single that the military used to promote among the troops •In 2008, there were 336,742 official Gonorrhea is the second most common type shot of the drug remained the treatment choice until to fight “VD” back in World War II before penicillin. cases of gonorrhea. of STD to be reported. In 2008, there were 336,742 1985, when rising resistance to penicillin and the And guess what? They’re still the best bacterial STD official cases. According to msnbc.com, we are fact that many people are allergic to it, forced health fighters of all. expected to have about 700,000 cases this year. Not officials to give the other antibiotics their turn. As Story by Sanjula Mahathantila Page Design Becca McMillen Inside Look 11 Disclaimer: The following questions are real situations and were asked for by Dear B Team, random people in the school. Questions answered by Bianca Zerwas are serious responses, while the ones answered by Becca McMillen are only meant to amuse.

Dear B Team, Dear B Team, I am addicted to Facebook. I have to like at least 37 things a day, and I have to My friend ran away and her mom is looking for her. I do not actually know where update my wall every hour. My parents are starting to become concerned. I do not she is, but she does keep texting me. She constantly keeps asking to stay with me. I do understand why they are getting so upset with me about this situation. I am perfectly not want her to because she had no reason to run away in the first place. If I do talk to fine; there is nothing wrong with it at all. It is not a big deal. How do I explain to my her, how do I convince her to go home? parents that it is not that big of a deal? -- Frustrated Friend -- Addicted to Facebook Dear Frustrated, Dear Addict, Tell her to go home! Just straight up say “girl you are ruining your life and you are Who in the world needs to “become a fan” of 37 things a day, and why do you have being dumb!” Do not beat around the bush when talking to her, tell her how it is. Get to update your wall every hour?! Who does that? No one. You need to get a life and get it done. some air because if you are on Facebook that much you are probably somewhat anti- -- Becca social. Get out there and get a life for crying out loud. I understand your concern, and that is not an easy place to be in. Text/call her, --Becca and somehow get her to meet you in person. If you can talk to her in person about it, If I were your parents, I would be concerned too! Goodness! When you update it will be easier to convince her to do the right thing and go home. your life on Facebook all the time, what is the point? It is unhealthy to a certain level. --Bianca Try limiting the amount of time online and maybe find some kind activity to keep you busy. -- Bianca Dear B Team, As everyone already knows, summer is coming up really fast this year. Well you see, I already have sumeritis. I can not concentrate in my classes anymore and I am slacking Dear B Team, on my homework. My grades are slipping and I do not have enough energy to bring I just turned 16, which means I am finally allowed to date. There is this guy that I them back up. How do I pull through my summeritis? have been talking to and I know he wants to ask me out. The thing is that I do not want -- Over Excited to date right away but I do not want to be mean and say no. I do kind of like him but I am not for sure, what should I do? Dear Excited, -- Dazed and Confused Well since you have already started slacking off, you might as well give up all to- Dear Confused, gether. What point is there in trying anymore? If you give up now you will most likely fail your classes so if you are fine go for it. It is your life do with it what you please. Flip a coin. Clearly that is the only solution. If you cannot make up your own mind, find someone or something else to do it for you. I strongly suggest the coin; people --Becca will get annoyed that you cannot do anything for yourself. Therefore just pull a coin out of your pocket and flip it! Everyone is super excited for summer. Just try to stay focused in class, and you will not regret it. Ask questions when you need it, and instead of watching your favorite TV -- Becca shows that you can simply record, finish all of your homework and study as much as All you can do is be honest with him about the whole situation. People prefer possible. The stress of summer not coming fast enough will fade soon enough. straight up answers most of the time. It is better that way, and in the end will be less --Bianca stressful for the both of you. --Bianca

Photos by Bridget Mulligan, Bianca Zerwas and Sanjula Mahathantila