October Issue 2008

TROY INVOICEAuburn Senior High School Auburn, Wash. (253) 931-4880 [email protected]

Volume 40, Issue 1 October 15, 2008

Discipline mattersAs is usually the case with a new

administration – federal or at the high school level – policies change. Though basic rules often remain static, the process of enforcement is always a variable, and Auburn has not been ignored. Immediately after joining the AHS community, new principal Richard Zimmerman established his faithful Behavior Management Plan, commonly known as the point system.

“It allows teachers and other staff to focus on teaching and learning rather than student discipline,” Zimmerman said. “It helps the students to take ownership of discipline.”

The plan assigns students points for handbook violations, the values varying depending on the severity of the offense. Offenses warranting points range from level one, disrupting class, to level ten, a physical assault or bomb threat. A student is allowed up to 90 points per semester before suspension. However, administrators reserve

the right to hasten consequences depending on the particular situation.

“In a way it’s better for the students because they know how many points they have,” assistant principal Roger Lee said. “It takes the mystery out of it.”

It also maintains consistency, Zimmerman said. Only administrators can assign points to students, eliminating any bias a teacher may carry. Essentially, points are designed to be used as a last result for beleaguered staff.

“In the real world, mistakes equal consequences,” Lee said. “This is just like the real world in that regard.”

Zimmerman first employed the point system at the secondary level at Ocean Shores’ North Beach Middle and High School. In conjunction with the plan, Zimmerman reduced the small school’s suspensions from 1000 to 19 for an entire year. He hopes to achieve a similar outcome at Auburn.

“When you peel away the layers, Auburn isn’t that unique,” Zimmerman said. “It’s made up of

different students with different backgrounds all trying to get an education.”

However, AHS required more than just a broad new discipline policy.

Zimmerman eliminated the tardy sweeps, the controversial process used previously.

“The tardy sweeps was inefficient,” Lee said. “It wasted time. Now Mr. Aiken and the secretaries have more time to deal with individual students and time to track things better.”

Now, Lee said, the procedure is stricter.

“Kids know exactly what they’re accountable for,” he said.

Administrators stress the value of the system for all students, and Zimmerman is open to suggestions. He intends to organize a committee of teachers and students to review the discipline plan at the end of the year.

“They are just guidelines,” Zimmerman said. “We all want to be on the same page.”

See p. 2 for more information on the changes at school.

By REBECCA NELSONEDITOR IN CHIEF

Homecoming 2008

Spirit Week: Oct. 20 - 23Monday: Band/College T-shirtTuesday: Stoplight Day - Wear red if you’re taken, yellow if you haven’t had “the talk” or green if you are singleWednesday: Weather/Fashion Disaster - Wear a non-flattering ensemble or be prepared for inclement weatherThursday: Green and GoldFriday: No School

Football Game: Friday Oct. 24 Time: 7 p.mOpponent: TahomaAttire: Green and gold

Dance: Saturday Oct. 25Time: 9 p.m. to midnightTheme: ParadiseAttire: FormalWhere: Auburn High School Gymnasium

ATTENTION STUDENTS: This year for Halloween hats and sunglasses will be allowed. However, students must follow rules in handbook.

Food faces nutritional changes

On Oct. 9 Princpal Zimmerman was arrested and taken to jail at Emerald Downs to raise mon-ey for muscular dystrophy, which affects 5 out of 100,000 people. Photo by Sonja Thomas

“There’s big changes,” Marci Massick, now the head of the Culi-nary Art’s program at AHS, said.

When Chef Flynn retired at the end of the 2007-2008 school year, Child Nutrition bought out the caf-eteria. Child Nutrition is a national school lunch and breakfast program that provides nutritious foods as well as gives students an opportu-nity to practice nutrition learned in class. Child Nutrition is in charge of elementary, middle and high school meals. They play a part in the quali-fications for free lunch, and they serve lunch in the AHS cafeteria.

The new program is “unfamiliar, it’s working well, and I want to give it a chance,” Massick said. “Change isn’t always bad.”

Currently, Child Nutrition’s fo-cus is on AHS; however they also occupy other schools in the Auburn area. Every school has a Child Nutri-tion representative in it. Eric Boutin is the representative for AHS.

“Part of what we want to do is to make you nice and healthy,” he said.

Culinary arts students still rotate between areas of the kitchen,

The students in Culinary Arts prepare lunch for their fellow classmates. Photo by Sonja Thomas

however some of the tasks in the class are different. There is not a lot of cooking done by students, and most of the foods are pre-made and simply need to be warmed or served.

Students may think that Massick makes all the decisions. However, she truly has no say in what foods are put in the kitchen. All the lessons are prewritten and the protocol for serving is not her decision.

The new and improved cafeteria has a bigger salad bar, with more choices and plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables for healthier choices. Many students believe that the price of food at AHS is expensive at an av-erage of $2.50 per entrée.

“You can go to McDonalds and get two burgers for two dollars, but you don’t see anything fresh on their menu,” Boutin said.

Senior Jessica Hoover disagrees with Boutin’s positive thoughts on the new system. She believes that the system has changed too much.

“I don’t like it,” Hoover said, “be-cause the stuff I used to eat years be-fore is gone now.”

Nevertheless, other students, like freshman Kendall Church , are hap-py with the system.

“I like it,” she said, “Because it gives us all a chance to do every-thing we want to do if we want to become chefs.”

Boutin is open to suggestions, should students wish to have a meal option that is not on the menu.

“Steak and shrimp might be hard to do,” Boutin said.

However, if students have any suggestions for a change they can e-mail Child Nutrition at [email protected].

By SONJA THOMASNEWS EDITOR

NEWSNEWS October 15, 200822

Many rumors have been flying around school about fights, guns and knives. However, most of them are false. Assistant principle Roger Lee agrees. He wants to tell students: “Don’t respond to rumors.”

The rumors have been creating many untrue stories and fights. To set the facts straight, there have only been two “come-to-blows” fights, according to Stacy Jordison.

The first took place before school behind the church. It involved two

male students.The second took place on campus

after school. It happened under the tunnel by the Visual Communications room and the PAC. This involved only female students.

Even though security was heightened for a few days, there was never a gun on campus.

AHS staff would rather be safe than sorry regarding the students’ and the school’s safety.

The shooting on A Street involved a former Auburn Riverside student; no students from Auburn were involved.

Despite only two physical fights there have been lots of verbal and postural outbreaks, Jordison said.

“Auburn is a safe school,” Lee said.At this time last year, there had been

more fights then there are now. Both Lee and Jordison agree that principal Richard Zimmerman’s 90 point system has helped the school’s situation.

“Kids are aware,” Lee said. “The student body takes Mr. Zimmerman’s plan seriously because no one wants to end up with a large number of points.”

The staff is doing everything they

can to make this school an even safer place for students.

According to Lee, preventing fights and drama can happen in a few steps.One: Don’t respond to rumors. Do not take them as facts. Two: Tell a teacher or staff member. Three: Talk to the person who gave you the information; it is usually wrong.

“I have seen a big improvement,” Lee said. “I am very proud of the students for focusing on their schoolwork and not other distractions. I would like to congratulate them on a good start to the school year.”

School fights put new policy to the testBy JESSICA MORGAN

SPORTS EDITOR

This summer was marked by tragedy. U.S. History and World Studies teacher Johnny Njoku and U.S. History and Global Issues teacher Kelby Berg’s husband, Brian Berg, passed away.

According to KIRO News, Berg was driving on I-405 near Southcenter early the morning of August 29 in a white pick-up behind a semi-trailer when the trailer suddenly stopped in rush hour traffic. A truck carrying Best Buy goods was driving behind him. Berg could not stop in time, and the Best Buy

truck struck Berg’s truck from behind. A car driving behind the Best Buy truck stopped quickly, but not quickly enough, and hit the truck; the driver came out of the crash uninjured.

The crashed destroyed Berg’s truck and caused a small fire in the Best Buy truck. Berg died from smoke inhalation and burns. Both the driver of the semi-truck and the driver of the Best Buy truck were uninjured.

Mrs. Berg is pregnant and is due in January. She hasn’t been back yet this year.

Njoku was diagnosed with lung cancer last spring

and passed away over the summer.“He passed away in only a matter of a few months,”

AP Euro and World Studies teacher Michael Grenz said. “It was very sudden and somewhat shocking. We all thought he was getting better and would be back this year.”

Njoku was well-liked around campus and got along with everyone. He will be missed by both his students and co-workers.

“Njoku was just an incredibly nice guy to everyone, respectful and always in a good and pleasant mood which is what I think I’ll miss the most,” Grenz said.

Summer tragedies leave mark on AHS teachers

Familiar faces take new positions

“Variety helps you understand more about the place you work,” new Dean of Students John Aiken said.

For those who are new to Auburn High nothing seems out of the ordinary.

But for those who are not new this year, a couple of things are out of place.

A lot of students remember Aiken as their old biology teacher. This year, he can be found roaming the halls with a radio.

“I was asked to do it over the summer,” Aiken said. “This position is a lot busier from start to finish, and the interactions with students are much different.” Aiken said.

Some students might hope he comes back to teaching, and he is open to that possibility.

“I would love to teach anytime,” he said.

The new dean seems to be fitting in just fine in his new office and seems pretty content in his new position.

With Aiken taking his old slot, Roger Lee was looking for an opportunity of his own.

“With Mr. Lowry leaving, I was hoping for this job,” he said.

He is no longer hoping now, joining us again this year as a vice principal. As part of his duties in this new position he is now in charge of the Career in Technical Education program (CTE).

To many, the new principal here is unfamiliar; however, Lee said he used work at one of Mr. Zimmerman’s former schools.

“I have known him for several years,” he said.

So exactly how long has Mr. Lee been with us?

“Actually, I am a graduate of this school,” he said. Like Aiken, Lee also seems to be enjoying his new position in a not so new school.

Zimmerman finds home at AHS

A man who once waited tables and worked retail is now the most influential person in our school. Our new principal, Mr. Zimmerman, has followed an eclectic path to Auburn High.

“I worked many jobs to get where I am today,” he said.

Zimmerman also taught people how to surf until he discovered his passion to become a teacher.

He moved from California to Broken Arrow, OK, where he taught at Olive High School for one year, Childers Middle School for five years, and then became assistant principal at Oliver Middle School. He also worked to get his Masters in Administration at Northeastern State University.

Zimmerman then applied for principal positions in Washington and

California. He took a job as principal at North Beach High School in Ocean Shores.

Before Zimmerman became principal, North Beach had issues with attendance and discipline. During his five years there, he drastically lowered the amount of tardies and suspensions with his behavior plan.

As he starts his first year at AHS, he intends to use the same discipline policy here that helped improve North Beach.

Along with lowering the amount of tardies, he hopes to help the teachers raise WASL scores, increase safety in the school and provide all students with a proper education.

Zimmerman describes himself as approachable, energetic and funny. He juggles, plays drums, surfs and golfs.

“I would say I live a normal life just like the students,” he said.

By JENNA NAVARREREPORTING INTERN

By AMANDA BURYREPORTING INTERN

By MIRANDA BROOKSOPINIONS EDITOR

Many people still wonder where the Career Center is and what it is for. These questions are frequently asked among freshmen and new students.

However, this confusion is not exclusive to those groups. Students who have attended Auburn High for their entire high school career often don’t know exactly what purpose it serves.

Originally called the Career and Education Planning Center, the Career Center is run by John Morrow and Sharon Englehart.

“We help students try and empower their initial future,” Morrow said.

The Career Center is able to aid students in this venture by opening up many resources for them to research their interests and college options. It is located in the 100 hall one door away from the main

office. For those with no

inkling of what to do after high school, the Career Center provides a multitude of information on different colleges and websites that help students develop their interests.

The Auburn High website has a link to the Center’s database, which displays a calendar of upcoming events sponsored by the Career Center as well as testing dates, questionnaires and links to guidelines for students preparing for college. Morrow also helps by revisiting assessments from freshman year and asking questions about interests the student may have.

Although the Center offers a plethora of college information, its sole purpose is not to load students with thoughts of post secondary education. It also presents help with finding a job, securing an interview,

scheduling and resume development. Morrow offers help with interview practices to help students have a better chance at being hired.

He and Englehart assist students in figuring out how to dress appropriately for an interview as well as help to develop an effective resume and find a job suitable to the student’s interest.

“If a student could just know if they were introverted or extroverted, that would weed out half of the jobs out there,” Morrow said.

Questions about future schooling, career options or high school courses can be answered by simply walking through the door and requesting an appointment. Morrow is open to any inquiries, and simply asks that students “take the healthy risk to start the process of discovering their future.”

Future planning made easyBy SONJA THOMAS

NEWS EDITOR

C o l o r a d o State University Representa-tive Kar-len Suga presents to seniors in the Career Center on Oct. 6.Photo by Robin Ball

Print/Export Time: 1/29/08 12:40 PMPrint Scale: NoneUser Name: erick.wilsonProof #: 5PM: L. HolmesInDesign Version: CS2Version Code: None

Document Name: IG_N08UR001_6_Advantage.inddDocument Path: MENY Production2:Volumes:MENY Production2:Army:Mechanicals:N08UR001_1_6_Advantage:IG_N08UR001_6_Advantage.inddFont Family: Interstate (Bold, Regular)Ink Name: CMYKLink Name: IG_Salute _6.tif (Gray; 576 ppi), ASLP_Shad_r_1C_rev.ai

Client: U.S. Army (AAUE)Product: ACTJob #: N08UR001

Ad #: 6Headline: The Army Advantage FundVisual: Soldiers/black backgroundSpace/Color: pg b/wPublication: AAF, Jan ‘08

Bleed: NoneTrim: 7.25 in x 9.75 inLive: NoneGutter: None

AD: T. DillinghamCW: M. GonzalezCD: C. MarkusAP: NonePP: L. Ricco

Created by Interface Graphics, a division of

McCann Erickson

T:7.25 in

T:9

.75 in

FEATURES October 15, 20084

Dress shopping a snap even late

Procrastination, a horrible rip, a last minute decision. No matter what the reason may be, be-ing without a dress is a problem. Do not fret; there are many places nearby where you can find a dress.

1) Friend’s closetClosest Location:

Choose a friend. You save money and all the stress that comes with it. Borrowing one from a friend’s sis-ter is great as well; no one has seen the dress recently and there will be more variety.

2) DEBClosest Location:

Super MallDEB has numer-

ous styles of dress-es, from short to long. There are plus size dresses as well. DEB is not only a dress store; it is a perfect spot to find shoes as well.

3) The RackClosest Location:

Super MallNordstrom Rack

is perfect for last minute dress shop-ping. The style of dresses is mostly short, but there are a few longer ones. It has the same quality as Nord-strom, just cheaper. There are also plen-ty of shoes at great prices.

4) TorridClosest Location:

South CenterTorrid is a great

spot to find plus size dresses. They are very fashion-able and not too formal.

5) Your momClosest Location:

Across the hallHave a desire to

go vintage? With a massive amount of lace and three-inch-high shoulder pads, her old prom dress is sure to be a hit with not only your date, but also the 80-year-old man driving your limo.

By JESSICA MORGAN

STAFF REPORTER

Homecoming is coming up fast! Are you still un-sure of what to do after the big dance or don’t want to go home and sleep? To make Homecoming Para-dise 2008 a night to remember, consider these great options:

1) After Party

Going to a friend’s house is the way to go. First of all, hanging out with your best friends and having a good time does not involve any money. Secondly, it is very safe.

P.S. Don’t forget to bring a change of clothes.2) Midnight Bowling Going in dresses and tuxes will make the night

even more enjoyable. Plus, everyone’s stares will

inspire a lot of laughter. It will also make getting a strike a little more challenging.

3) Denny’sGoing to Denny’s in Auburn is quick and easy;

it is right around the corner from AHS and always has good service. After all that dancing and sweat-ing you are bound to be hungry for some breakfast or at least a milkshake.

Keep ‘Paradise’ going throughout the night

If today is your birthday: Just because it is your day doesn’t mean you can walk in front of traffic and not get hit. People can still get hurt.

Aries (3/21-4/19): Even though things aren’t going as planned, don’t quit.

Taurus (4/20-5/20): Being angry is

no way to solve p r o b -lems.

Gemini (5/21-6/21): It may seem like every possible thing is holding you back, but think about the positive. The sky will seem clearer.

Cancer (6/22-

7/22): The sun does not shine f o r e v e r . Get ready for a rainy day.

Leo (7/23-8/22): Keep your real friends close. Your relation-ships will be tested soon.

Virgo (8/23-9/22): Karma is not always going to be on your side. Watch what you are doing it could come back at you.

Libra (9/23-10/22): Take time to realize who you are and who you want to

be, then start work-ing toward those long term goals.

Scorpio (10/23-11/22): Spend some quiet time with some-one special tonight.

Sagittarius (11/22-12/21): Change is not

always a bad thing. T h i n k o p e n l y

about it.Capricorn (12/22-

1/19): Remember that actions speak louder than words.

Aquarius (1/20-2/18): For some rea-son people like to mess with you. Be the bigger person and walk away.

Pisces (2/19-3/30): Get out of your shell and have some fun. Try something new for a change.

By JESSICA MORGANSPORTS EDITOR

Homecoming eats simplified

Left in a lurch for where to go to din-ner this Homecom-ing? These great eats cater to any budget and are all conve-niently located in Auburn.

Price Index: (per meal) $: under 10 dollars$$: 10-15 dollars$$$: 15-25 dollars

Koong Thong Thai:

Thai cuisine; known for Pad Thai and curry dishes.

P h o n e : 253.833.1337

Price: $Spunky Monkey

Bar & Grill:American cuisine;

generally good at-mosphere, low pric-es and great food.

P h o n e : 253.804.9567

R e s e r v a t i o n s : Large groups only

Price: $B.B. Magraws:

American cuisine; great for parties of more than two! Phone: 253.804.5588 Price: $$

Red Robin:American cui-

sine; a casual restau-rant with an array of

burger options and great lemonade. Good for groups and couples.

P h o n e : 253.804.6550

R e s e r v a t i o n s : Not required, but taken.

Price: $$Athens Pizza &

Spaghetti House:Italian Cuisine;

known for their hot oven grinders and great pastas.

P h o n e : 253.939.7444

Price: $$Ristorante Au-

guri:Italian cuisine;

known by most to have good service and delicious food.

P h o n e : 253.887.1559

R e s e r v a t i o n s : Recommended for weekends.

Price: $$$Copper Falls:Range of cuisines

from fried calamari to chicken quesadil-las; beautiful view and pleasant set-ting.

P h o n e : 253.876.1957

R e s e r v a t i o n s : Only required for banquets.

Price: $$$


Need a date? Want to sell your guitar? Celebrating a birthday or anniversary? Advertise with the Troy InVoice in the December issue! E-mail [email protected] or stop by room 309 for more info.

TROY INVOICEAuburn Senior High School

800 Fourth St. NEAuburn, WA 98002

To maintain a high standard of journalism, Troy InVoice adheres to the following editorial policy. All members of Troy InVoice staff have agreed to this policy, and

it will remain posted in the newsroom throughout the year.Troy InVoice will strive toward excellence in every issue. It will aim to be a vital

part of Auburn High School. The Troy InVoice staff will strive to:1. Report news accurately, objectively, fully and in-depth.2. Provide leadership. 3. Meet professional journalism standards.4. Provide a forum in the school for the free interchange of ideas. Letters to the

editor and reader contributions will be accepted. The written views of students must be responsible, in good taste and must not attack anyone in a personal manner.

5. Cooperate with staff and student body in supporting projects and give hon-est evaluation of such projects.

6. Give full credit for any material that is not original.7. Acknowledge any mistakes and frankly correct any major errors that are

brought to the attention of the staff.8. Use the most effective style of expression. 9. Endeavor to create a valid expression of the concerns of Auburn High School

students and staff.10. Ensure no photograph will be altered in any way. Troy InVoice will not endorse political candidates or accept political advertising.It will reserve the right to refuse any advertising illegal or inappropriate for

high school students.Paid advertisements that are libelous, inappropriate, advocate an activity

illegal for students or are judged to be in poor taste by the editors and adviser will not be published.

EDITORIAL STAFFRebecca Nelson, Editor in Chief

Sonja Thomas, News EditorMiranda Brooks, Opinion Editor Jessica Morgan, Sports Editor

Robin Ball, Features EditorJarret Dodge, Adviser

STAFF REPORTERMatt Arquitt

REPORTING INTERNSAmanda Bury

Josh HerrmannJenna NavarreSarah Peedle

William PhetsoumphouJea Reece

Sonia RodriguezAshley Russ

Garrett ShanerEva Steed

Arielle Stroup

By ROBIN BALLFEATURES EDITOR

Horoscopes forecast month

To J.C. Happy 3 month, 10 day, 5 hour, 37 minutes and 10 second anniversary! You are the great-est thing to happen to me since I waited in line all night for my Xbox 360. Love Always, H.Q

Need a job? Get off your rear, put down the Wii-mote, and come down to Billy Bob’s Horse Rodeo. Needed: Someone to clean the stalls. Will not supply shovels, gloves or nose plugs…sorry.

SWM looking for any available, des-perate girl. It has been 15 years and 2 months since my last date. I like to play American Gladiators with my 5 year old cousin in the back yard. If you want to challenge me on the Eliminator, holla back girl.

FOR SALE: 12 year old Canadian turtle. His name is Frederick. A very nice turtle when sleeping. When awake, he chases down cats and eats them for breakfast. Even fast ones. $22.35 OBO

Happy Birthday to you. Happy Birthday to you. Happy Birthday dear Frederick the Canadian cat eating turtle….Happy Birthday to you!

Saw you at Café Auburn deli-cately shoving your pizza in ranch during first lunch on Oct 7. You were wearing a pink shirt with leopard print span-dex. It was hot! Love, YSA

Disclaimer: The advertisements below are for sample purposes only. All submissions must adhere to the Troy Invoice advertising policy.

Photo by Robin Ball

FEATURES

These fun and resourceful costume ideas are sure to make anyone the life of the Halloween party.

Gov. Sarah Palin and daughter Bristol: Politically timely, this duo is an easy way to stand out this Halloween. For Sarah, rock a pencil skirt, blazer or blouse, red pumps and glasses. Pull hair up in a conservative bun and complete the look with a fake gun and an NRA pin. Bristol is even easier: tuck a big sweater under a casual t-shirt and jeans and wave a McCain – Palin 2008 campaign sign.

Ball of yarn: Promote knitting with a full-body costume that will provide warmth this Halloween. Using four or five cheap balls of yarn, transform into one by wrapping them all around the body. Broomsticks

make optional but great knitting needles. Though movement may be limited, it will spark involved conversation.

“Freudian slip”: The psychological answer to the French maid, this costume is great for someone eager to show some skin. Just throw on a lingerie slip and explain to interested passersby Sigmund Freud’s theories on the subconscious.

Michael Phelps: This record-breaking Olympian is easily recognizable in the high-tech bodysuit that aided him in his success. Load on multiple gold medals (the dollar-store variety) for warmth and don’t forget a leafy crown fashioned out of woven plant stems. To involve more people, enlist random friends in swimsuits to play the rest of the U.S. team and always stand in front, blocking anyone from noticing them.


Costumes stretch imaginationWith the 2008 presidential

election right around the corner, students and adults alike are beginning to form their opinions and choose a candidate. Look at the facts below to get a true view of the candidate’s positions, and where you stand in this election.

The Issue: EducationMcCain: Holds strongly

on ideals of having parents and their children have the ability to transfer from poor academic schools, to higher-rated schools. Schools that perform with high-scoring test standards would be rewarded with federal money for school improvements.

Obama: Would encourage pre-kindergarten classes, and giving higher pay to teachers who do well. Wants to change “No Child Left Behind” law

to benefit other educational classes, like music and art. He also wants to provide $4,000 worth of tax credit to students who do 100+ hours of community service.

The Issue: EnergyMcCain: Supports using

federal money for-off shore drilling, with a percentage of that going towards building 45 nuclear reactors across America by 2030. Dislikes the idea of oil drilling in the Alaskan Artic Reserve.

Obama: Also opposes arctic drilling, but would consider limited and controlled off-shore drilling. Would also allow tapping into the Strategic Petroleum Reserve for short-term relief of high gas prices.

The Issue: Iraq WarMcCain: Does not plan

to have a scheduled troop withdrawal from Iraq And believes current strategic

plan is working. McCain has supported the war from the beginning.

Obama: Opposed the war in the beginning, but did vote for more funding in the following months. Strongly supports a full troop withdrawal from Iraq within 16 months.

The Issue: Economy McCain: Supports cutting corporate taxes to 35%, reducing estate taxes, and an overall plan to help lower income U.S. citizens, taxes to the standards of other large countries around the world in the hope of brining more business to America.

Obama: Does support a $120 million stimulus package to kick start the economy, and would enact a middle class tax cut for up to $1,000. Also encouraging laws that would help combat mortgage fraud.

By MATT ARQUITTSTAFF REPORTER

FEATURES 5October 15, 2008

Terror reigns at spooky scenes


How to prepare for college in any grade

Freshmen and Sophomores•Freshman and sophomore year is the time

to focus on building a strong GPA. •Take as many core classes as possible

(math, science, language arts, etc). •To prepare for a four year college, page 24

in the AHS course catalog is the Public Uni-versity entrance course requirements which will tell you all the basic requirements for ad-mittance to a four-year college.

•Take math based science (like biology, chemistry, physics).

•Find a career path and take electives that follow that. If you want to be a nurse for ex-ample, take classes like Sports Medicine.

•Take honors or AP classes.Juniors •Take AP classes and AP exams. •If possible, take classes that give you col-

lege credit. •Take an interesting elective. Seniors •Continue an AP course load. •Take additional math classes if possible. •No early dismissal or late arrival. •Do not sign up to be a TA. •Take on challenges.

Halloween is a time for trick-or- treating, but what else is there other than going door to door for sweet treats? Here are some places to go and where to be this Halloween.

Freighthouse Square Haunted House

On October 24th from 7-9p.m. bring canned goods for discount tickets at the Freighthouse Square Haunted House in Tacoma. The tickets are $13 without the canned goods discount.

Star 101.5 Ultimate Haunted Hospital

Get frightened touring several floors of an old Seattle General Hospital. Wearing 3-D glasses, experience the shocker on every floor. Tickets are nine dollars. Bring a canned food donation for a dollar off.

KUBE 93 Haunted House This haunted house has over

20 rooms including, the dungeon, meat-cleaver filled kitchen, and the execution room, that has been hosted for years. The recommended age for the haunted house are 12 and up. They are also

adding some sinister smells to add the effect.

Prices vary from $12 Thursday and Sunday, $13 Friday, Saturday and Halloween, however, if you bring in three non-perishable food items the cost is $11 any day. It operates 7 pm to midnight on

Friday and Saturday, 7-10 Sunday and Thursday.

Fright Fest at Wild WavesWild Waves is known to be great

family fun. With whirling rides and the famous wave pool. But what happens to the amusement park during the night? Starting

Oct. 4 through Nov. 1, Wild Waves is turned into a “scream park” with a haunted house sponsored by KISS 106.1.

The rides are still available but there are certain twists and decorations for the occasion. Not only do they feature the

haunted house but a new trail of horror

campground that opens at 7 pm. There are also attractions for the little ones like Booville that opens from 5-9 pm. Instead of the normal wave pool that is used for swimming, it will be drained out Friday and Saturday night’s from 6-11 pm. Ticket prices are

19.99 and are well worth the price. Wild Waves is never boring with the many fun things to do with a group of friends.

If all else fails, why not go around the neighborhood dressed up as something goofy or scary? It will be fun and rewarding.


Candidates stand by issues

In a world of infinite college requirements, the veritable blitz of standardized test acronyms can seem daunting. What do they stand for? Which one should you take? And, most importantly, what do they test, anyway?

The five most common exams will generally satisfy most applications. All you need to know are their vital stats.

SAT: Scholastic Aptitude Test

Open to: juniors and seniors. What’s tested:

Math, reading and writing. Scale: Each section is worth 800 points, for a combined highest possible total of 2400. Questions: Mostly multiple choice, and an essay must be completed in 25 minutes answering a broad prompt. Wrong answers deduct ¼ of a point from the final score. Cost: $45. See your counselor for fee waivers. Take it if: you want to go to a four year college. Collegeboard.com.

ACT: American College Test

Open to: juniors and seniors. What’s tested: Math, English, reading and science.

The writing section is optional. Scale: 1 (low) – 36 (high). Questions: 215 multiple choice, with no penalty for wrong answers. Cost: $31, $46 with the writing portion. Take it if: you want to go to a four year college and you didn’t do well on the SAT. ACTstudent.org

SAT Subject Tests: Open to: All high school

students. What’s tested: Choice of tests in specific subjects including U.S. history, math, English literature, biology and nine languages. Scale: Each subject is worth 800 points. Questions: Mostly

multiple choice. Cost: $45 plus fee for each subject tested. Take it if: the four year college you are interested in requires or recommends it, and you just finished the class (so the material is fresh in your mind). Collegeboard.com

WASL: Washington Assessment of Student Learning

Open to: Sophomores are required; freshmen have the option, and juniors and seniors can take it up to five times to ensure a passing grade. What’s tested: reading, writing, math and other core

subjects. Questions: Multiple choice, short answer, extended response and essay. Cost: free to all students. Take it if: you want to graduate. Other info: Alternatives are available to students demonstrating need.

TOEFL: Test of English as a Foreign Language Open to: juniors and above. What’s tested: Skill in listening, grammar, reading and writing in English. Questions: Mostly multiple choice, with a timed essay on a given prompt. Cost: $130. Take it if: you are a nonnative English speaker and you want to go to a four year college. TOEFL.org


Student’s guide to mastering the college test acronyms

Pam Bolen’s pumpkin mug shows the Hallow-een spirit of students and staff at AHS. Photo by Rebecca Nelson

OPINIONS 36

JOSH HERRMANNREPORTING INTERN

L a s t Halloween season I remember putting on my cat ears and drawing whiskers on my face. I got my

pillow case ready and I walked out the

door with my best friend. We walked around the block in

our costumes looking at all the little kids dressed up as Cinderella and Power Rangers. We were looking for the right house to go to, that first loot hit. We walked for about 15 minutes and ended up at a house where there were little kids running down the driveway to their parents with king sized Snickers. We had found the house.

We walked up to the door and knocked. When the door was opened a lady stood there with a bowl of candy. “Trick or treat!” we yelled. A look that I had never before seen appeared on her face.

What did we do wrong? Was there a spider in my hair? Then she said “Don’t you think you’re a little too old for this?”

It never occurred to me that I might be too old to go trick-or-treating.

There was an awkwardness that left our mouths hanging open. I apologized and we left. We looked at each other and decided that it was just that house, and that we would try another one.

We walked across the street to another house with laughing children. This time when the door opened and the owner saw us they just shut the door.

Though the whole night wasn’t like this and we did get some candy, we mostly got weird looks and doors in our faces.

I do not think that just because we are older that we should be discriminated against.

We were in good costumes. We weren’t going up to the door in nothing and demanding candy. We were just out for a good time.

It made me think that maybe they want us to throw big parties and get the cops called on us. They want us to be bad. They want us to run around nude on the streets. They want us to get in trouble, or maybe they want us to have no fun at all and hand the candy out to all the others.

When did there become an age limit on safe fun? Is it safer for a nine year old to run around at ten o’ clock, or a fifteen year old? I just want people to think seriously about this for a second. It may seem like a little thing but for some people there is nothing else to do.

There should be no age limit on trick-or-treating. Logically, it just makes no sense.

October 15, 2008,

Ageism affects candy quantity Students Rock the Vote

With as much controversy and change as there is in the 2008 Presidential elec-tions, do we ever get to see the policies behind the candidates? Despite what

many people think, John McCain does not have the same policies and ideals as the Bush Administration. I believe that it is time that we take a look at the policies that the republi-can senator is trying to put into ac-tion rather than the person putting them through.

Some of the policies he is trying to pass are about rather controver-sial topics such as deregulation, The Wall Street Bail-Out, and more importantly, the war in Iraq.

For years, McCain has been for

deregulation. McCain wants to cut government spending rather than raise taxes so the government can take away some of the deficit we have built up. McCain wants to use the added government money to bail out the big money lenders on Wall Street, which is being called the Wall Street Bail-Out.

McCain’s biggest plan of action is to keep the troops where they are. He believes that if we pull the troops out, the Middle East will go into a civil war and we will have more problems than what we start-ed off with. He thinks if we stay in then, yes, we will be in an economic recession, yet he believes if we pull out, we will go into a depression.

McCain is very much a family man. He has seven children and four grandchildren, and his wife Cindy live in Phoenix, AZ. He has good family values and is against abor-

tion. McCain’s father was a ranking officer in the U.S. Army during the first and second Iraq wars. Senator McCain joined as a Naval Aviator shortly after he graduated. McCain’s father told him it was hard watch-ing him go into the armed forces and fight for his country. While in the Navy, McCain spent time as a prisoner of war which showed him the hardships that soldiers endure. Yet he still believes we need to keep up our guard in Iraq.

I believe that McCain can help us get out of our economic reces-sion and also help us to achieve our goals in Iraq.

This year’s election will probably be one of the closest we have had in years, but whatever the outcome, I want the people to have an under-standing of the administration be-ing brought into office rather than the person sitting behind the desk.

ASHLEY RUSSREPORTING INTERN

Republicans push for four more years

A s t h e 2 0 0 8 e l e c -t i o n s d r a w e v e r

c l o s -e r , m o s t

teens seriously start con-sidering what candidate they think will do the best job of leading this nation for the next four years. When the candidates an-nounced that they would run, I initially pledged my support for Senator John McCain. I respected, and still do, his many years of dedicated service to

protecting this nation. Lately however, I have been doubting his ability, or want, to change many aspects of the last eight years of a failed Bush ad-ministration.

I have decided, for many reasons, to switch my attention to another candidate. His name is Barack Obama. His most recent addition to the democratic national ticket is Senator Joe Biden, from Delaware. Barack Obama is the only son of his fa-ther from Kenya, and his mother who hailed from Wichita, Kansas. He brings youth, energy, and an impressive record

when it comes to predict-ing the outcome of the war in Iraq.

I am preparing to vote for Obama on the basis that I believe that he will be able to change U.S. policy the most. John Mc-Cain has voted for (or agreed with) President George Bush nearly 90% of the time. And many of the things that he has vot-ed for, including the Iraq war, have arguably had more of a negative impact than a positive one.

Barack Obama is a big believer in stem cell re-search, and I personally think that stem cells can seriously help the millions

of people in this country facing an illness that they aren’t prepared to fight, or can’t fight at all. Many people are calling him the new JFK, and his wife the next Jackie. Many people say that he should have picked Hillary Clinton to join him on the demo-cratic ticket. I don’t nec-essarily agree with that belief. I believe that Joe Biden brings among other things, excellent foreign policy experience, and an overall knowledge to the table.

But whatever course history may take, we can all be assured of a historic election to come.

GARRETT SCHANERREPORTING INTERN

Democrats banking on historical race

ROBIN BALLFEATURES EDITOR

Many students wonder why they can’t go off campus. Reason one would be that it is a school board policy that all schools in Auburn are closed

campuses. R i c h a r d

Z i m m e r m a n mentioned that

he had made an exception for AHS allowing upper classman to leave campus. However, two conditions were made to allow this: students must

have at least a 2.0 grade point average and no discipline referrals.

As a sophomore, I believe that I and everyone else in the school that would like to leave campus for lunch should be able to. Many students don’t want to goof around off campus. Instead, they just want to go out and pick something up to eat that is not from school lunches, and they should be able to respect that.

They tell us that student safety is another reason for the rule.

“Every time a student leaves school they are taking a chance,” Zimmerman said. “They can get in an accident; get in trouble with police, etc. We want the

kids to be safe.”I think we are responsible enough to

walk over to Safeway or Burger King and be back in time for fourth period. And if the student is not back on time, then punishments should be handed out to those who abused the privilege.

He also mentioned that if it were his policy, he too would have closed campus due to safety reasons. Zimmerman also said when students eat lunch at school they are insured a healthy meal, instead of going out and more than likely eating junk food. We choose whatever it is that we eat. We have logic enough to know.

What happens when an Eskimo sits on ice for too long? It gets a Polaroid. How do you keep a lion from charging? Take away its credit card.

Seriously, are these the jokes students want to hear everyday this year?

Honestly, there has to be

appropriate jokes that are better than that. I want to be able to laugh openly at jokes because they are funny, not corny.

I know they are not meant to insult our intelligence and I assume that the goal is to get us better acquainted with our

new principal, and that makes sense. Being a new principal in a new district is very difficult and I understand the desire to be accepted by the students. However, we are not in grade school.

These are jokes people find on popsicle sticks. We need to

help Mr. Zimmerman with his bad joke problem by maybe submitting a few of our own.

I agree it is nice to start the day off light and it seems as if that is the goal. If there is a better way to set the mood, or just better jokes, I would appreciate it.

Annoyed student disapproves of new principal’s jokes

SONIA RODRI-GUEZ

REPORTING IN-TERN

Lunch variety limited by closed campus policy

The boy’s tennis team has volleyed, lobbed, and smashed their way through this season. Led by captains Josh Jeter, Travis Hanley, and Coach Phil Smetheram, these young men currently have a record of 5-3.

Coach Smetheram hopes to be

back to state and finish in the top three. Seniors Jeter and Hanley made it to state last May as a doubles team; the expectation to make it back this year.

Smetheram has noted that there are several other boys that have really stepped up like Brandon Wilber, Jacob Carson, and Brenton Millard. He is also

glad to have Jesse Fisher back on the team after an injury last season.

“We’re a very competitive [team] in every match,” says Smetheram. These boys have shown it in a very close 3-2 win against Federal Way. Catch their next match Oct.17 at home vs Kentwood at 3:30 pm.

SPORTS 7October 15, 2008 SPORTS

Since Auburn has moved up to 4A, the football team has done considerably well.

The Federal Way Eagles have been the biggest threat so far. The first game of the season was against the Eagles; Auburn came out on top with a score of 21-13. However, the Trojans did not always have the lead; the game was close up until the last quarter.

“I think we are prepared to compete against the teams in the division.” Head coach, Gordon Elliot said.

According to the Seattle Times, they can compete with teams at state as well: they are ranked 5th in Washington.“We are doing great going undefeated. Oh Yeah!” Senior Daniel Cantor says. Auburn is off to a great start with a 6-0 record. Offensively, Auburn averages about 40 points per game, while defense only gives up around 10 points per game. Upcoming games against Decatur and Tahoma are expected to be wins for Auburn. The homecoming game is against Tahoma on October 24th at 7PM. “Its Homecoming, everyone will be pumped up and ready to go. Tahoma is a good team, but we are

better. It won’t be easy, but we’ll pull away with a win.” Cantor said. Auburn’s fans love to see this kind of enthusiasm; it really gets the crowd pumped up. The Junior Varsity and freshman teams are doing well this year. JV has a 5-1 record and the freshmen team is 4-2. JV’s only loss was against Kentwood with a final score of 7-19. Along with starting 6-0, another note-worthy accomplishment came on September 26th against Kent Meridian. Senior Derek Barrows made history with a 99 yard touchdown run. He now ties the school record that had stood for 53-year-old. Auburn won that game 66-28.

Football goes undefeated in 4A league playBy JESSICA MORGAN

SPORTS EDITOR

The boys water polo team has improved this year compared to the last. The players, boys and girls alike, have worked hard this summer in the pool every Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday scrimmaging with other schools.

“The team is more well-rounded this year,” returning varsity player Bryan Diebag said. Even though AHS moved up to 4A he still feels like they are going to win more games than last season due to the team’s improved skill level and more players.

Mountainview (non-league) and Lakes will provide some easy wins. However, arch-rival Riverside, and Curtis, last year’s

state champions, will be hard to beat. Coach Brandon Shrieb is a perfect fit for

the team. He works well with everyone and is very intense. At every game, he is jumping up and down, yelling with excitement. He has a positive and upbeat attitude at all times.

So far this year the team has been doing fairly well. The Trojans have been competing well with all the teams they have faced and are looking to the state championships this year. In a recent tournament, Auburn took home some hardware, winning sixth place. Their record during the tournament was 3-2, winning against Lakes and twice against Emerald Ridge.

Make sure to come support the team wearing green and gold. The games are scheduled on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

By JESSICA MORGANSPORTS EDITOR The girls soccer team has had

it rough this year with a record of 2-7 along with one tie. However, senior goalie Jennsyn Chaney feels that they are doing a lot better than last season.

“We’ve really stepped it up,” Chaney said.

She thinks the Trojans have a chance of making it to state, even though the team hasn’t been in the last four years.

The team gets along well with Coach Russ Deford, and Chaney believes him to be an excellent coach.

Chandler Johnson, who made varsity this year as a freshman,

also believes the team has the potential to make it to state. She finds practices easy and thinks the team can do much better.

This year the team has four freshmen which will allow for the varisty team to mold future leaders.

The two victories were against Kentlake and Kent Meridian early in the season. Both were home games played with fierce determination.

The tied game was played at Kentridge on September 9th and was the first official game of the season. The next game is at 7:30 on October 16th vs. Tahoma where the team hopes to make a push for the state tournament.


Soccer stepping it up

Tennis beats Riverside for first timeBy JEA REECE

REPORTING INTERN

Even though the varsity volleyball team hasn’t won a game yet they are excited to be back in the 4A division. Assistant coach Michaela Herrera said her favorite game was against Riverside where the score came to 14-16. Varsity and junior varsity has each had six games and C team and gold team have had each five games.

Head coach, Kimberly Farris said her highlight of the season was, “Taking Auburn Riverside to 5 games and almost pulling out a win.”

Herrera said the star players for varsity are Skylar and Sierra Atkinson, Michelle Ernsdorff, and Dani Brunelle.

“This season has started out difficult for us,” Farris said. “We’ve had really good teams to play for all our non-league games and have a tough league this year. Going back to 4A, there are a lot of teams that have been very successful at state the last few years. We have been working hard and are going to really compete for one of those top spots.”

Each volleyball team has been working hard and has been competing in tournaments. Varsity and C team has competed in one tournament, and junior varsity has competed in two tournaments.

Herrera said, “Hopefully the second half of the season will be better and we’re in a new division which makes it harder.”


Volleyball team hopes for revival

Golf hits the greenBy GARRETT SCHANER

REPORTING INTERN

Boys coach Jeremy Sagle will surely have his hands full as the boys’ golf team will have 11 golf matches around the Sound. Given the past history of the golf team, we can be certain of a brilliant golf season. Captains Alex Pratt and Adam Vance have done their very best so far as the first match of the season was a fierce battle that resulted in a win of 65-33 against Kent Meridian.

The girls golf team has also had a solid season. Senior Arielle Stroup has become a medalist, once winning the most points in a game, and captain Liz Pierini has accomplished the feat twice.

“I feel like it is a developing year,” Pierini said. “We’re getting our team more stable.”

The team also scored a three year high of 60 points against Kentwood at Jade Greens and has used that as a springboard for the rest of the season. Be sure to support your team by making it to both the boys and girls JV tournament which takes place all day today, October 15 at the Auburn Golf Course starting bright and early at 8:00 AM.

Water Polo improves from last year

Boys and girls cross country runs amuck

By AMANDA BURYREPORTING INTERN

While most of us were sleeping in and partying late, the cross country season started mid-summer. And the boys and girls of our cross country teams are still hard at work.

Practicing every day to train and excel aiming to qualify for the district championship meet. Girl’s captain, Erin Williams and boy’s captain, Andy Star who were voted as captains at the end of last years season, have led their teams through this season.

“They’re great captains who work hard, set a good example, and strive to inspire their team mates.” said Coach Isham.

Both teams and coaches, Christina Loehr, who is filling in for Mrs.Way and Mr. Isham hope to finish the year out strong.

Junior Dani-elle Sannow sprints to fin-ish a race at Seaside, OR after run-ning through a mud pit.Photo by J e s s i c a Morgan

So far in the season the girls swim and dive team which is lead by Coach Scott McLaughlin, stand with a record of 1-3 and their first win came against Kent Meridian. They already have possible state appearances by Shawna Jordan, who won the diving title as a sophomore, and by Trisha Averill, who has never gone to state before.

“The girls work hard and are dedicated and are willing to try new events,” said senior captain Amanda Strong.

With the fame of Michael Phelps, senior captain Anne Partridge explained the purpose of the posters that have been hung around the school.

“It was team bonding and we decided to make posters to encourage girls to come and join girls swim and dive,” she said.

Come watch their next and final regular season meet against Kentwood at the Auburn pool. And remember be there or don’t.

By AIR STROUPREPORTING INTERN

Girls swim and dive splash into season

PHOTO ESSAY8 October 15, 2008

Juniors, Ben Johnson (right) and Elijah Keimig sprint for the finish line in a league meet against Kentridge and Kent Meridian. The meet was held at Game Farm Park on Oct. 8, Kent Meridian swept the whole meet with a win.

(From left) Sophmore Skyler Atkinson, junior Michelle Ern-sdorff, and freshman McCall Wilson wait during warm ups at a home match.

FALL SPORTS

FINISHING STRONG

During a doubles match with team-mate Travis Hanley, Josh Jeter serves to the opposing team, Thomas Jefferson. Trojans came out on top with a win.

The football team (from left: Dylan Rutledge (23), Daniel Pita (44), Isaiah Johnson (6), Keila Suka (73), Nick Conlan (51), and Carlo Lavoie (4)) play defense on French Field.

The varsity soccer team gets pumped up before their game against Kentridge by huddling in the middle of the field. Auburn lost this game on October 7th 2-0, but put up a tough fight.

Practic-ing at the Au-burn Golf Course, junior Alex Clark swings at the ball.

Junior Toby Heiler looks to pass the ball while playing against Peninsula High School. The team lost in a close match. He is an exchange student from Germany and this is his first year playing.

Kayla Conway swam in the 100 meter backstroke on October 9th against Tahoma.

Documents

October Issue 2008