Sept. 25, 2009 • Volume 90 • Issue 2

Dodge City High School • 2201 Ross Blvd. • Dodge City, KS 67801

the

Feature/Entertainment

DODGER 09.25.09 Contents

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The Dodger is a publication produced by the Dodge City High School journalism department. The newspaper attempts to inform and entertain its audience in a broad, fair, and accurate manner on all subjects that affect the readers. The publication seeks also to provide a forum for the opinion of students, the staff of the paper, and the faculty to encourage an exchange of ideas on all issues of prominence to readers. The Dodger staff encourages letters to the editor, as they constitute avenue for student opinion. Due to space limitations, not all letters can be published. The editor reserves the right to edit all letters for appropriate placement as long as the meaning and intent remain unchanged. The letter must be signed to be considered for publication. The opinions expressed throughout the publication are not necessarily those of the faculty, the administration, or USD #443. Unsigned articles are a general consensus of the staff, while signed articles are the personal forum of the writer. All letters, columns, stories, photos and art become legal property of The Dodger at the time they are submitted.

Codi Ehrlich .....................Co-EditorAnthony Reardon .............Co-EditorTrevor Otterstein .................OpinionLuke Bunker ........................OpinionKristi South ......................LifestylesJordan Stevens .................LifestylesMeghan Lee ............................NewsEthan Hutchcraft ....................SportsHunter Edwards .....................SportsCristina Yeverino................ReporterAlysia Garvalena ................ReporterJean-Damien Bouyer ..........ReporterErin Finley .........................ReporterKristine Rusinova ...............ReporterEthan Hutchcraft ........ PhotographerCindy Moore ....................... Adviser

the Dodger staff

Editorial Policy

LineupDodger

News

Sports

Opinion

Part of this World pg 10

VMA Debacle pg 12Magic Mountain Dew pg 13

Movies, Movies, Movies! pg 14

2012: Could it be the End? pg 15

Heat Stroke pg 17

Scoreboard pg 20

See You at the Pole pg 4

STUCO Conference pg 8 Swine Flu pg 16

09.25.09 DODGERColumn

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I sat in my car, shaking as if I had just come off a cheap amusement park ride that was miss-ing a few parts. My heart was in my throat as I sat in awe of what had just happened. It was moment in my life that I could never take back. It may have only been a 10 minute experience, but it was one that stretched on for what seemed like a decade. This moment was more epic than The Great Depression. Yes, I’m talking about my first time to ever be pulled over.

The evening started out simply, just doing my normal round of kicking some butt playing tennis on the Wii and then later a creep session on Facebook. Before I could even reach the wall-to-wall stage of my creeping, a thought suddenly snuck into my head. This thought kept agitating my brain until it finally broke through the lethargic coma state that I was in: I needed to go to Wal-mart and buy something.

I nonchalantly logged off of the computer and grabbed the keys. Getting into my car was a blur. Why should I have any subconscious thought that this trip to town would be any dif-ferent than the thousands of others I have taken? Without having to direct my legs and arms, they backed the Jeep down the driveway and with perfect precision pulled onto the highway.

Now, I don’t know if this is pure coincidence or a governmental conspiracy to ruin my life (as Anthony would say), but the segment of high-way right in front of my house just happens to be under construction. Mind you, this road work is completed in this area, but, of course, the speed limit is still reduced,

So here I am, driving down the highway. I have taken this path so many times, that it is re-petitive muscle movement, and I could probably drive it while sleeping. Of course I am singing along to track 12 better than Fergie and a choir of angels mixed together. Track 12 is ironically “Tonight’s Gonna Be a Good Night.” Once again, why should I even think that tonight isn’t going to be a good night?

Just when it comes to my solo in the song, I happen to glance in the rear view mirror and see the scariest thing imaginable. I’m not talking about Anthony when he wakes up in the morn-ing either. I am talking about those blue and red flashing lights. They were just taunting me

in the mirror. The only thing I could hear was the lights laughing at me and snickering in a squeaky voice, “We got you now, hehe!”

The immediate thought that followed was, I am a felon. And not just because I got pulled over, but also because I am almost certain I was going the normal 65 in a now reduced speed of 50 in a work zone. For all of you out there not good with numbers, that is 15 over, and in work zones it doubles so that comes out to 30 mph over the speed limit. I literally was driving like a felon. I know to all of you who have ridden with me find this a shock because I do admit, I drive like a grandma, but believe it or not, I am only human.

I casually pulled over to the side of the road, and part of my naive heart honestly thought that the sneaky little highway patrolman would just drive right on by and pull over some other reck-less driver. I thought wrong. To my utter dis-may, he pulled up right behind me.

Quicker than an Olympic sprinter, I shut off the radio and threw my cell phone out of my lap. I tried to pull myself together and act as composed as I could. But there was no stopping the seizure that my hands were undergoing. I don’t know what it is, but there is just some-thing about those men in uniforms that make me crazy.

The officer approached me, and the entire time he was walking up to the car, I was try-ing to think of awesome excuses as to why on earth I was speeding. Here is what I came up with: “I REALLY have to go to the bathroom!” “What? This is roadwork? You have GOT to be kidding me!”

Scary music began to play in the background as soon as the officer opened his mouth. Every-thing turned red and black and in slow motion words tumbled out of his mouth, “I pulled you over because...” The suspense was building in my head. My heart was pounding so hard that I couldn’t breathe. “... you don’t have your head-lights on.”

Could this honestly be the luckiest day of my life? I am speeding in roadwork and this beautiful, kind, articu-late man pulls me over because I don’t have my headlights on? You know, maybe the Black Eyed Peas were right. Tonight IS gon-na be a good night.

Just as he asks me for my license and registration, I realize that my luck has just run out. I also real-ize that I am an idiot. I look into my wallet,

and right in the plastic cover where the hor-rific reminder of how un-photogenic I am usu-ally stares me blankly in the eyes, I only find a few pieces of lint. I LEFT MY DRIVERS LI-CENSE IN MY JEANS AND THEY ARE IN THE WASH. I silently want to scream NOOOO at the top of my lungs and throw my arms into the air, but I decide against it.

Casually I explain to the officer my circum-stances and hand him my insurance and regis-tration. Of course, this was not so much casual, but a plea for my life. I am unsure whether my voice or my hands were shakier, but somehow I made it through. Before he turned back to the squad car, I flashed him the innocent smile.

That next three minutes was the longest three minutes of my life. First, I looked into the pas-senger seat and realized that I look like a total slob. So naturally I take everything and begin throwing it into the back like a maniac. I am sure that the officer saw me and thought I was honestly crazy. After I cleaned the seat, I had to make sure and check all of the mirrors and make sure that they were in the precise spots. While checking the mirrors I realize how much I deeply regret the fuzzy cover over my steering wheel and rear view mirror. But taking them off would be too obvious as they are so noticeable, so I just had to endure the embarrassment.

Suddenly he came back up to my window. The words that flowed out of his mouth were sung with a beautiful harp and a melodious choir singing along with him, “I am writing you a warning for driving without headlights and without your license.” My heart erupted into joy as I had narrowly escaped death.

No longer can I hold over the rest of my fam-ily’s heads that I have never been pulled over. No longer can I ensure nervous parents whose children ride with me that I am a trustworthy driver on the road. No longer am I the above average driver. I have joined the ranks with those not suited to call themselves perfect driv-ers. But one thing is certain, I will always turn on my headlights and keep that hideous driver’s license in my car.

“But Officer...”

-Codi Ehrlich

DODGER 09.25.09 News

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1712 Central • P.O. Box 176Dodge City, KS 67801

620.225.2888 • 1.800.779.0753Fax: 620.227.3970susie@parkerhaskins.com

Susie Reardon

The DCHS choir has begun working on their singing skills for this year’s Fall Concert, State Choir, and even the musical.

“I think we have always been good, but this year we are even better. It’s a building year for us,” said choir member Emilyjane Pyle, 11.

The choir hopes that this year they will be better than previous because of all the new faces who have joined choir. Pyle went on to describe the freshmen as having an extreme amount of enthusiasm for the choir.

“I think our major advantage this year is that we have a young group, and a young group equals a very teachable. With this enthusiasm we can go anywhere we want,” said choir director Kelly Knedler.

Knedler hopes that with the new students he will be able to teach them more of the contemporary music, because they will be more opened to new stuff. With the older students, they have already their minds set on what they wanted and how they wanted to do it.

Knedler and Pyle both think that this year will be one of the best for the Fall Concert and State Choir, where they hope to place.

“I think with the combination of new faces and great leadership we will have a great year! I hope we get first in State,” said choir president Paula Cabrera.

Along with the Fall Concert, which takes place in October, and State Choir, Nov. 1, the choir also hopes to bring a wide variety of students in to audition for the musical. Auditions for Thoroughly Modern Millie will take place at the end of November.

See You at the Pole is a once a year event, where Christian stu-dents can meet together at their school flagpoles to engage in pub-lic prayer. This Christian inspira-tional event takes place all across the country. “It’s a day where all the students come together and pray about what they think has to happen to school and what should happen around the country,” said Evan Bonner, freshman.

Traditionally See You at the Pole or SYATP is held on the fourth Wednesday of September every year, but since the national SYATP falls on teachers in-service with no school for students, it was moved back one day to Sept. 22.

At 7 a.m. students and teachers met at the flagpole Sept. 22 to unite in public prayer and ended the event with doughnuts. The group as a whole started with prayer then was divided into class groups led by students.

Many students enjoyed SYATP. “I enjoy that we get all the stu-

dents to get together and worship God,” Jade Elliot, 10, said.

First time SYATP go-er Isabella Beltran, 10, said a few days prior to the gathering, “I think I will like SYATP a lot.”

A Saw You at the Pole eve-ning celebration was held the next evening at the Dodge City Memo-rial Stadium for all the people who went to SYATP. At the celebration there were games, student stories and live music.

SYATP is not a rally or protest. It’s just a chance for students and teachers to pray for their school, family, friends and country.

“[It’s for] everyone who wants to unite in the voice and action of prayer for justice and goodness to rule over our schools, community, and all the families who live here,” said Jason Goetz, Church of Naza-rene youth pastor.

Students, staff gather to pray at the pole

Choir begins practice for upcoming events

-Jean Damien Bouyer / Jordan Stevens-Alysia Garvalena

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09.25.09 DODGERNews

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With the dawn of the internet, many social networking sites have come to the public’s disposal, none more popular than Facebook.com. This site, was quickly adopted by teenagers in 2006, and continues to be embraced by them today. However, with great things come great flaws, a statement truest to teenagers whose parents have Facebook.

To fully understand why this is a problem for teenagers, one must first know some of the basics of Facebook. As stated before, it is a social networking site. It allows someone to converse with old friends, share photos, videos, and links to websites, as well as update people through their statuses and play through many different applications. One of the few drawbacks the site has is that if someone adds a person as their friend, that friend, as well as any other person in the network they’ve

decided to include themself in, can view anything that is on that person’s page. This default may at first seem minor, but when taken into account that the teenager may have an overbearing parent, conflicts can arise.

“Parents should not be creeping on their children,” said concerned student Tiffany Hines,12. “Although I have nothing to hide, it kind of feels like an invasion of privacy.”

This “invasion of privacy” is the driving force behind students rebelling against parents with Facebook. While there may be some students whose pages probably should be periodically checked, most are just being themselves, and behaving with their friends in an online forum. This fact, however, has not kept the said “overbearing parents” from looking through their child’s every conversation.

For a considered “lucky few,”

this invasion of privacy has not been an issue.

“Luckily, my parents are not tech-savvy, so they don’t have Facebook,” said Kellyn Kulbiski, 12. “My parents would be questioning my every move. If there’s a very funny, although highly inappropriate, joke that I want to put on someone’s wall, I wouldn’t be able to.”

This event has been described by many students as “inhuman” and “unnatural” with some students going so far as to say that it is “barbaric.” There is, however, a few ways teenagers can avoid this situation. One basic thing that can be done is the simple act of not adding your parent as a friend. For those students whose parents forced them to add them, anyone can be blocked on Facebook, not to mention a partial block of people that only allows a person to view certain things.

Of course there’s always two

sides to a situation, as evidenced by parent-with-Facebook TerieJo Trent.

“I think that there are just as many parents now with Facebook as kids, and we like to catch up with friends who we may not talk to if it weren’t for Facebook,” said Trent.

As for the “creeping” factor mentioned by Hines, Trent said, “I admit that I check on my kids too.”

The long-term side effects of parents having Facebook have yet to be seen. Granted, most parents only have their child’s best interest in mind, but will this occurrence have unforeseen consequences? Will Facebook continue to thrive for years to come? Or will it, like MSN Messenger before it, die out into a desolate being? Only time will tell.

Parents embrace Facebook, teenagers revolt-Anthony Reardon

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After a month of early morning practice, countless extra flip-folder pages, learning the art of buttoning the band uniform, memorizing music and constantly humming it everywhere, and trying to figure out which poker chip actually marks their spot on the field—it’s time for the first big marching band competition of the season.

The PRIDE of Southwest Kansas will be loading up and heading to K-State for the Central States Marching Festival in Manhattan at Kansas State University Oct. 10, 2009.

The festival takes place at Bill Snyder Family Memorial Football Stadium and usually has about 30 schools from all around Kansas and parts of Missouri competing. There have been more than 30 schools competing in past years, but this year they decided to put a limit on the number allowed.

The festival is judged and then bands are scored using a number rating system. Bands are judged on music performance, general effect, marching and maneuvering, and then the color guard and drum-line are also rated. The judges in this competition are hand-selected and invited to judge.

“Director of the festival, Dr. Frank Tracz, selects the judges,” Erica Lindberg, Director of Bands said.

“Judges are from around the country and have previous experience in adjudicating. [They] are well respected in our field.”

Each judge critiques one of the

particular aspects of the show. At the end they each give the band a rating. Overall a band will receive five ratings. The highest rating a band can receive is a I and the lowest is a V.

Immediately after a band’s performance, they go into a separate indoor practice facility to watch a video of their performance. While there, a judge comments on the video, and the band gets to see what they did right and what they need to improve on.

“It’s one of my favorite parts. I have really come to appreciate it, “Lindberg said. “It’s nice to see the instant product.”

In addition to performing, students get to watch other bands perform. It really seems to make everybody appreciate what they do even more. Of course, the competition element is still there.

“It’s amazing watching bands march at K-State. You see how all the sets click and hear the music go along with the movements,” Karina Hernandez, 10, flute, said. “With all my knowledge (not much, but) of marching a show, it all makes me feel smart when I pick out all the stab lift taps and lock flicks.”

The Central States Marching Festival is all about band. At the end of the day, an awards festival is held, but before it starts things can get a little rowdy. Before the awards start, various band cheers can be heard throughout Snyder Stadium and sometimes “The Wave” will even be started! The energy radiates through the stadium. Even through all the band’s craziness though, there is still the anticipation about the ratings.

“When your name is called, it always seems to take way too long

to hear them say the rating,” Kelli Enlow, 10, trumpet said. “When you get a I, it’s like an adrenaline rush. You are just excited!”

This season the band will be marching a show called “When Oz Goes Dark.” It features Pink Floyd and Wizard of Oz music. The show is based on the Dark Side of the Rainbow theory which claims that if you start playing Pink Floyd’s Dark Side of the Moon on the third lion roar at the beginning of the Wizard of Oz, the album will correspond with what is going on in the Wizard of Oz.

The show is quite different from last year’s western theme, but it promises to be filled with lots of excitement.

“This is only my second show and it is completely different from my first, “ Hernandez said. “I think change is good. The show has really cool parts in it, and who doesn’t know the Wizard of Oz parts?”

The band will also be competing in two other festivals this marching season. On Oct. 20, the band will go to Garden City for WAC competition and on Oct. 28, the band will compete in Andover.

“The band has put a lot of hours in. I know that they will do well because of the work they have put in prior to the festival,” Lindberg said. “I am proud of the way our students put marching shows together.”

The band performs their pre-game and half-time show at every home football game.

Pride of Southwest Kansas to participatein three marching festivals in October

-Erin Finley

Horn Section. Seth Bush, 12, plays the trumpet at the home game against Wichita East, Sept. 11, at Memorial Stadium. • Courtesy Photo Juan Coca

09.25.09 DODGERNews

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It’s fall, and that means that the DCHS debate team is back in action. With more members than ever before, there will be over nine debates this year held all over the state.

“I think this year’s team is going to be very good,” said debate sponsor Michelle Mitchell. “There are some strong speakers and clear thinkers that I’m sure will do well at upcoming tournaments.”

Mitchell has been teaching the debate class for many years and expects them to “try their best, work hard, and represent DCHS in a positive manner.”

“We have a really great team this year,” said Kim Schmalz, 12. “I’m very confident about what we can do I know our team will go far.”

Schmalz’ classmates seem to share her enthusiasm, evidenced by Mercedez Barroso, 12.

“Everything’s pretty good,” said an enthusiastic Borroso. “We’ll have a pretty good year. I think we’ll win a lot more tournaments.”

The students’ statements may be more true than they would be in previous years due to changes in Mitchell’s teaching of the subject.

“I am doing a lot more lecturing with conclusive exams on Friday,” said Mitchell. “Students are [also] debating earlier at tournaments than previous years.”

This year’s debates will be held at the following locations:

Great Bend: 9/18Hays: 9/26Dodge City: 10/3Garden City: 10/24Liberal: 10/31Hugoton: 11/7Scott City: 11/14Pratt: 12/12

Hoisington has yet to release a date for their competition and State will occur on Dec. 18 and 19.

Debate preps for another year of tournament competition

-Anthony Reardon

Area-wide Spirit Spreader provides spirit training

A group of area high school and middle school cheerleaders, drill teams, and dancers were shown some new moves on Sept. 2 in the DCHS field house.

“Spirit Spreader was really fun! We learned a lot and it was a good bonding experience,” said Ashley Stephenson, 10.

Universal Cheerleaders Associ-ation taught new cheers and helped the team to perfect stunts. They taught new moves and techniques for the upcoming 2009-2010 sea-son.

“It was a lot of fun getting to dance all day instead of going to class. I think that Spirit Spreader

really helped get the drill team ready for our upcoming season,” said Cassidy Hampton, 11.

The Spirit Spreader was espe-cially helpful to those new to high school cheering and performing.

“I thought this year’s spirit spreader was especially neat be-cause our squad got the opportuni-ty to help the younger squads per-fect their stunts,” said Alex Marie Davis, 11

“Spirit Spreader was very help-ful. The UCA director helped us to sharpen up, and they gave us tips on how to make our jumps stron-ger. They also showed us how cre-ate new builds,” said Shane Bridle, 12, DCHS yell leader.

-Meghan Lee

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Picture RetakesOct. 21

One, Two, Three. Dodge City High School cheerleaders participate in the annual Spirit Spreader held Sept. 2. Also participating in the event was the Dodge City High School Drill Team. Cheerleaders and drill teams from area high schools were also invited to attend. More than 800 cheerleaders and dancers were in attendance. • Photo Teryn Guillen

Cheer Clinic

News Brief

The parent teacher confer-ences had 49% of freshman and sophomores attend, 41% of ju-niors attend, and 39% of seniors attend. It’s a usual occurrence to have about half of the students at-tending, and the same went for the parents, as 45% showed up this month to hear about their kids.

For freshman, about 227 out of 462 students had one or more parent attend conferences. Soph-omores had about 229 of 467 parents attend the conferences. Juniors dropped slightly having 154 of 379 students whose parents attended, and the seniors with 134 of 345 students whose parents at-tended.

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On Sept. 30, approximately 400 students will be seated in the DCHS Auditorium anticipating the start of the 2009 Stuco conference. It will be the only conference for DCHS Stuco participants this year, and is planned to “improve the leadership qualities in the school,” said Michael Pelton, Stuco sponsor.

Any school in Western Kansas is invited to come to DCHS for the conference. This particular conference features a speaker and break-out sessions. This year’s speaker will be Dr. Earl Reum. The drill team, Class Act, and Madrigals will also be performing.

The Stuco conference teaches something to students and adults alike. Hopefully each will take away their own important message from the conference.

“[I want the students to learn] how to make their school a better place,” Pelton said.

The conference is a learning experience but also provides fun and lasting memories for those involved.

“Getting to meet people from different schools that are is the same group as you, and getting to hear all the different ideas [is fun],” Sarah Jane Schuetze, 10, said.

Students run and are elected to be on Stuco, which is a student government group that plays an important role in the school.

“[It] works to improve the school according to the student’s needs and wants, Pelton said.

Stuco imparts lifelong lessons to those involved and appears to be a very gratifying experience.

“Knowing that I have a say in the improvements and big decisions that go on in the school [is rewarding],” Jared Stremel, 11, said.

This year’s officers are Paula Cabrera, president, Brett Eichman, vice president, Justin Dewell, secretary, and Jared Stremel, treasurer.

The Stuco conference will begin at 8 a.m. and conclude at 12:30 p.m.

Area Stuco conference scheduled for Sept. 30

-Erin Finley

Picture retakes will be held on Oct. 21. Any student who wishes to purchase pictures who were not able to on picture day will now have the opportunity. If a student was absent on picture day he or she will have their photo taken then.

The process will be the same as it has been, students will be called out of classroom starting first block in alphabetical order to report to Mrs. Moore’s classroom (M109). A pass will be given to students to go back to class.

Packets will be available from Moore. Any questions can be addressed to her in M109.

Retakes Conferences

-Christina Yeverino -Trevor Otterstein

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Last Sunday, Sept. 20, The Dodge City Church of the Nazarene hosted their biggest concert yet. Bands like Capitol Lights, Spoken, Attaboy, Heath McNease, The Wedding, Project 86, and Braille have performed. Previous concerts had great outcomes, but none have been quite as good as the most recent concert. Sunday’s performers included popular bands Pillar, KJ-52, and a new band 7eventh Time Down.

“My favorite thing was probably that the bands stayed afterward and gave autographs and took pictures and just talked to the people whocame to the concert,” said Jazmin Conley, 12.

Although most fans had to stay off stage and watch from the crowd, ten people got to spend time before the concert with the bands. Hosts of the concert, Darin and Jamie Eubanks, put a question

on Facebook about the bands and the first person to answer got a backstage pass. The people who won got to pick a friend to go with them. After the concert, the bands stood at the merchandise tables and just talked to the students and adults who came through.

“I really enjoyed how humble and kind all the bands were. They were so polite to all the fans and took the time to talk to them,” said Alex Harms, 09.

The bands attended the morning service at the Church of the Nazarene and then enjoyed a meal served by Living Room Ministry students and prepared by church cook, Pat Klecker. They also talked with the students and got to know them, just relaxing like old friends. Pillar said that “we will definitely be coming back to Dodge.” Pillar is a alternative rock band who started in Hays, Kansas. They are traveling with a number of other

bands in their “Confessions Tour.” 7eventh Time Down, is a new band playing music inspired by bands like The Beatles, Switchfoot, and U2. Students were raving about the success of the new group and loved the music they played.

KJ-52, a Christian rapper, takes songs and remakes them in his own way, involving the crowd in actions such as some of the moves from Michael Jackson’s song “Thriller,” and pumping your fist motions.

“I really like the small concert feel with the big bands. It was nice to be right up front and not have to be pushed and shoved around as much as a big concert. It makes

you feel more involved. KJ really did that for us,” said Jenay Unruh, 12.

DCHS students weren’t the only ones who attended the concert. Living Room Concerts (LRC) sold over 400 tickets to this “Confessions Tour.” Having almost half of the attendance being churches from other cities. Youthville also came out to enjoy the concert with their sponsor, Wayne Conley.

“I really liked the atmosphere… The bands were great and it looked like I wasn’t the only one who enjoyed it. Everyone was jumpin’ up at down,” said Chelsea Edger, 12.

-Kristi South

Living Room Concerts

Church of the Nazarene sponsors Christian rock concert

09.25.09 DODGERNews

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In last month’s issue various clubs were detailed including Friends of Rachel, KAYS, Student Council, Future Teachers, Heritage Panel, FBLA and Drama Club.

Here are other clubs students might be interested in joining. Due to the fact that it is September and most clubs have already started, a student can speak to the sponsor for more details on how to be in-volved in that club.

Club Name: SADD

What is it: SADD is a student organization whose goal is to help students make positive decisions about challenges in their everyday lives. SADD is Students Against Destructive Decisions.

Eligibility to join: Any student willing to make a commitment to avoid making decisions that will jeopardize health, safety, over-all well being, or trust. Students who participate in SADD are expected to demonstrate the willingness to make good decisions and accept responsibility.

Advantages of joining: Participa-tion is SADD activities. Leader-ship training and development. Opportunities to be a positive role model in many areas.

Activities that have been done in previous years: Red Ribbon Week. We are trying to re-establish and revitalize SADD at DCHS this year and look to begin some positive activities and get students aware of SADD and what it stands for.

When are group meetings: OP, generally the fourth Thursday of the month in the staff dining room.

Quote for Club: “Students helping students make positive decisions about challenges in their everyday lives.”

Club Name: GSA

Sponsors: Reni Hornung and Michelle ReidGeneral Mtg. Area: S149 or S132

What is it:The gay straight alliance is a group of gay and straight students who get together in a safe environ-ment to discuss issues pertinent to today’s teen. Our goal is to create a safe and supportive environment for students of any sexual orienta-tion to share their concerns, talk about hot topics, and discuss per-sonal, political, and school related issues. We encourage students to participate in planning activities to promote acceptance and respect of all people, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity/expression. One of our goals is to bring to the attention of our fellow classmates and school administra-tion the bullying and harassment of all youth, but particularly the

Club Name: International Club

Sponsor: Kristine Sieren

What is it: International club is an organization for students who enjoy learning about languages and cultures.

Eligibility to join: No require-ments, just come to the first meeting (or see Spanish or French teacher) to sign up. (First meeting was Thursday, Sept. 10.)

Advantages of joining: Meeting new people, and having fun.

Activities that have been done in previous years:Presentations by foreign exchange students about their experience. Cultural activities for Day of the Dead, Christmas, Chinese New Year.

When are group meetings:Second Thursday of the month during OP next meeting: Thurs-day, Oct. 8.

DCHS Clubs 2009-2010

This year the fall play is called State Fair. Grade school students will have the opportunity to watch the actors perform Nov. 13. High school students will have a matinee opportunity as well during fifth block.

A majority of the Drama Club graduated last year, but many new students have joined this year.

“Entirely new cast took a lot of talent with them, but we have an equal amount of new talent,” said experienced actress Amanda Dahna, 12, who has been in Drama

LGBT student and those perceived to be LGBT. We also want to plan activities that would encourage the school and our fellow classmates to address the problem of anti-LGBT behavior. LGBT- Lesbian, Gay, Bi-Sexual, Transgender.

Activities that have been done in previous years: Last year we pro-moted the National Day of Silence and hosted a ‘movie night’ where we watched the documentary “Straight Laced.”

Quotes: “Hope will never be silent.” -Harvey Milk “...all young people, regardless of sexual orientation or identity, deserve a safe and supportive environment in which to achieve their full potential.” -Harvey Milk

Goals to set: A viewing of the movie “Milk.”Discussion of the Day of Silence activities.

Dates you need to Watch

Oct. 16No SchoolOct. 21

Picture RetakesNov. 5

Senior Class Pictures/ Large group photosNov. 20

No SchoolNov. 25

2-Hour Early DismissalNov. 26-27

Thanksgiving BreakDec. 12

FloorshowDec. 22

Winter BreakLast Day of first semester

Jan. 6, 2010Senior photos due to M109

Club since her sophomore year.“It is a fun group of people,”

said beginning actor Tanner Slattery, 11.

“I got acceptance into the group easily,” said Anna Parsons, 09, who is also new to the club. “The group is very welcoming, and we formed a great bond which will definitely help onstage.”

“So far everybody has most of their lines down and are working on getting to know each other’s characters,” said Ethan Reimer, 11.

The fall play will be held Nov. 14 and 15.

“State Fair” is upcoming fall play-Christina Yeverino

DODGER 09.25.09 Lifestyles

10France

Germany

Sebastian Wevers

Jean

-Dam

ien

Bouy

er

What are the main differences between....

What are the maindifferences between....

American food & German food?

American cars & German cars?

American sports & German sports?American food is a lot of hamburg-

ers and french fries. German is more sauerkraut and riudfleisch (like our potatoes)

American cars are like Ford, Dodge, and GMC. German cars are BMW, Volkswagon, and Opel.

American sports include football and baseball where German sports are more of soccer and rugby.

Common German phrases....

Hey, was geht? = Hey, what’s up?Machs gut. = see you!

American sports & French sports?

French food is more refined than American so restaurants are usually more expensive.

American sports have football and French sports are more of football, soccer, rugby, tennis, and basketball.

American restaurants & French restaurants?

French people like the mod world, where America is more casual.

How do the schools differ?In France we have eight blocks and we only get to pick two or three of our classes. Sports are separate from school there too.

Part of this World-Kristi SouthJordan StevensAlysia Garvalena

Leaving their comfort zone and learning about new cultures, four exchange students came to Dodge City, Kansas. These four students have the chance of a lifetime to live in another country and live like them for almost a year. Exchange students will live with a host family and attend an Ameri-

can school and just live as though they’ve lived here all along. Sebastian Wevers of Germany and Jean Damien Bouyer of France were placed with the same host family and have grown to be just like real brothers. Also placed in the same house were Kristina Rusinova of Slovakia and Kim Eisele of Germany. Most of the students will be living with the same host family until June when they will head home to their families. Some of these pictures are from some of the activities since arriving. Sebastian and Jean Damien went sailing with senior Jordan Stevens, and Kim and Kristina went swimming with their host family.

09.25.09 DODGERLifestyles

11

Germany

Slovakia

Krist

ina R

usino

va

Kim Eisele

What are the main differences between....

What are the main differences between....

Part of this World

American restaurants & German restaurants?

How do the schools differ?

American school goes until 3:00 p.m., and you go 12 years, and lessons last 80 minutes. In Germany, school lasts until 1:00 or 2:00 p.m., and we go 13 years and lessons are 45 minutes. You also learn 11-13 subjects per school year in Germany.

America has many fast food restau-rants where we have German, Italian, Greek, and Asian restaurants.

American & German songs?America has ALL types of music. We have the same but NO country music.

American technology & German technology?

We have nearly all the same technol-ogy like iPods, TV’s, cell phones. We don’t have as many air conditioners.

American sports & Slovakian sports?

American food

& Slovakian food?

American clothes

& Slovakian clothes?

We have football but it is like American soccer. Slovakia doesn’t have American football or baseball.

America has lots of fast food, and sweets. We have sausage and lots of meat in Slovakia

In America people wear sports clothes and sweats to school, but in Slovakia we wear more jeans and just regular clothes, no sports clothes.

How do the schools differ?In Slovakia you can’t choose your classes like you can here.

Leaving their comfort zone and learning about new cultures, four exchange students came to Dodge City, Kansas. These four students have the chance of a lifetime to live in another country and live like them for almost a year. Exchange students will live with a host family and attend an Ameri-

can school and just live as though they’ve lived here all along. Sebastian Wevers of Germany and Jean Damien Bouyer of France were placed with the same host family and have grown to be just like real brothers. Also placed in the same house were Kristina Rusinova of Slovakia and Kim Eisele of Germany. Most of the students will be living with the same host family until June when they will head home to their families. Some of these pictures are from some of the activities since arriving. Sebastian and Jean Damien went sailing with senior Jordan Stevens, and Kim and Kristina went swimming with their host family.

DODGER 09.25.09 Entertainment

12

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“That was Taylor’s moment and I had no right in any way to take it from her. I am truly sorry,” Kanye West stated in his blog the day after the MTV Video Music Awards.

The first award of the night was given to Taylor Swift for the Best Female Video. Swift won her first VMA for her song ‘You Belong with Me.’ As Swift was giving her acceptance speech, rapper Kanye West ran up on stage, took the microphone from Swift and said “Beyoncé had one of the best videos [‘Single Ladies’] of all time.” West then shrugged and walked off stage leaving Swift speechless. After West returned to his seat, he was escorted out of the building.

Later in the VMA’s Beyoncé won a moon man for Video of the Year for ‘Single Ladies.’ During her acceptance speech, Beyoncé offered

Swift a chance to come up and give her speech again. “Maybe we could try this again,” Swift said with a smile as she began her speech thanking her director, her fans and everyone who helped with her music video.

Since the award show West has made two made apologies in his official blogs. In one blog he stated, “I’M SORRY TO MY FANS IF I LET YOU GUYS DOWN!!!! I’M SORRY TO MY FRIENDS AT MTV. I WILL APOLOGIZE TO TAYLOR 2MRW.” Both blogs have been removed from his official website. He also apologized on the Jay Leno show the next evening.

During Swift’s appearance on ‘The View,’ West called Swift at the studios and apologized for his interruption of Swift’s award acceptance speech. “Kanye did call me,” Swift told ABC’s news radio. “He was very sincere in his apology, and I accepted that apology.”

Kanye West takes Taylor Swift’s moment at 2009 MTV VMA’s VMA QUIZ

1. In what year was the first VMA ceremony held? a. 1984 b. 1990 c. 1997 d. 2003

2. Which artist has won the most VMAs? a. Beyoncé b. Aerosmith c. Madonna d. Michael Jackson

3. Who else has Kanye West interrupted at an awards ceremony? a. Bono b. Justice and Simian c. Madonna d. Beyoncé

TRIVIA:The VMA ceremony date was moved back so that it would never coincide with the anniver-sary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks.

Answers: 1-a, 2-c, 3-bSource: en.wikipedia.org

Top 10 2009 VMA moments

1. Kanye stealing Taylor Swift’s moment2. Janet Jackson’s choreography was per- fectly in sync with Michael’s on the screen behind her.3. Lady Gaga’s bloody performance of “Paparazzi.”4. Beyonce letting Taylor Swift finish her interrupted speech.5. Beyonce giving flawless performance of “Single Ladies.”6. Madonna comparing herself to Michael Jackson.7. Lil’ Mama’s bizzare stage rushing incident during Jay-Z and Alisha Keys’ performance.8. Taylor Swift’s performance in the NYC subway.9. Pink’s acrobatic performance of “Sober.”10. Green Day’s on stage moshpit.

-Alysia Garvalena

09.25.09 DODGEREntertainment

13

Imagine you are stuck stranded in the wilderness. The only way out is a source of light, but you have no electricity, no flashlight, not even a candle. The only thing you have in your possession is a bottle of Mountain Dew, about 1/8 tbsp of Baking Soda, and maybe (just maybe) three caps of peroxide. Well have no fear; with all these ingredients you can make your very own Mountain Dew lantern!

It sounds too good to be true right? Well, we’re here to find out. Unless you’ve been under a rock for a couple of months you have probably seen the Mountain Dew Lantern video sweeping the nation on Youtube. The video states that with just a little baking soda, hydrogen peroxide, and the power of Mountain Dew you can create a powerful concoction to make your very own glow stick!

“The video looks real. I think with the right chemicals and the neon color of Mountain

Dew, it should work,” said Ashley Licon, 11.However, there are some who may disagree.

“I have seen the video and have heard of people trying it with no success. I think it’s just another group of kids looking for their 15 minutes of fame,” said Cassidy Hampton, 11.

Now the word of a student can only go so far, so we went to a chemistry teacher for the scoop on this infamous video.

“I think this experiment would not work on several points. When you add the baking soda to the acidic Mountain Dew, you are neutral-izing the substance. Putting hydrogen peroxide in a neutral substance would not make it glow in the dark,” said chemistry teacher Tammy Peterson.

Now we could leave it at that, but the only way to really see if this amazing experiment works is to actually test it, and so we did.

We followed the directions all the way through, including ¼ of an inch of mountain

dew, 1/8 tbsp of baking powder, and the three cap fulls of hydrogen peroxide. We frantically shook the bottle awaiting the results. Now I would love to say an amazing bright light of green awesomeness flashed through the plastic container, but I would be lying. Nothing hap-pened.

As a result, we doubled the amount of the ingredients to see if maybe that was the prob-lem. Even with ¼ tbsp of baking soda and six cap fulls of hydrogen peroxide, nothing hap-pened. Not even a shimmer of green glowing power illuminated in the bottle.

With all this information, we think it’s safe to say the Magic Mountain Dew is another fake video, so we recommend not giving up the handy dandy flashlight for Mountain Dew on your next camping trip. Just like many other videos on the internet, it is indeed too good to be true.

Magic Mountain Dew

Quentin Tarantino is at it again, this time hitting the big screen with his own take on WWII in Inglourious Basterds. This ‘not-so-historical’ film is sure to stir some controversy as well as stomachs.

Although this movie may not be historically accurate, it gives a different look, if not a much more appreciated ending to WWII.

Inglour ious Basterds is another brain child of Tarantino, the man who blessed the screen with Kill Bill. The movie works as a novel, being split into five different chapters, each very satisfying so it never loses interest.

The story takes place in Nazi-occupied France early in the war. A frighten French Jew, Shosanna (Melanie Laurent), is on the run from the Nazi Col. Hans (Christoph Waltz) after being found hiding in a French dairy farmer’s house. After she escapes the Nazis, she changes her identity and begins to run a cinema her aunt left for her. Little does she know that the

cinema may be her only key to get revenge on the Nazis.

At the same time an American squad, code named the “Inglourious Basterds,” which consist of mostly American-Jews, set out to rid the world of Nazis. The squad is run by a loud mouth,

patriotic man named Lt. Aldo Rain (Brad Pitt). The two stories seem to be very separate, but Tarantino does a good job tying every-thing together at the end.

While this movie strands into a sort of “alternate timeline” it still is a very original and enjoyable film. Many history buffs may look at this movie with shame, but this film should be seen at as a fictitious story, not to be taken seriously.

This movie is great for anyone who has an open mind and a great taste for adventure. It’s full of action, suspense, and comedy, so there’s something for every one.

Inglourious Basterds was released on Aug. 20, 2009, and is currently in theaters.

Glorious opening to an Inglorius Movie

Fact or Fiction?

-Jordan Stevens/Jean-Damien Bouyer

-Jordan Stevens/Jean-Damien Bouyer

Top Ten Movies of 2006

1. Pirates of the Caribbean 2

2. The Da Vinci Code

3. Ice Age: Meltdown

4. X-Men: The Last Stand

5. Cars

6. Mission Impossible III

7. Superman Returns

8. Over the Hedge

9. The Devil Wears Prada

10. Click

Source: Music Information Database

DODGER 09.25.09 Opinion

14

Do you think there is excessive violence

in movies?“I don’t know; it de-pends on the movie. In general, not re-ally.”-Tiffany Hines

Senior

Faculty

Freshman

Sophomore

Junior

DODGER Asks

“No, that’s what makes the movies good.”-Max Solorzano

“It depends... I think some things are exaggerated a bit too much.”-Adriana Hernandez

“No, but it depends.”-Taylor Murphy

“Yes, it’s really hard to sit down... to watch a movie, [not knowing] what extent the violence is going to be.”-Janet Keeten

It tookmequiteawhile tofind inspirationfor what to write about for this month’s column, but itfinallyhitmewhilewatchingoneof thepreviews at a movie theater – why are there so many terrible, stupid movies in this world and no one to watch even the good ones? The answers are really quite simple. Lazy and greedy directors, writers, actors, and studios are really at the core of these problems. Lazy because they seem to be churning out a lot of crappy movies lately, and greedy because they apparently want you to spend a whole paycheck watching them (OK, so that may be a little bit of an exaggeration, but still). From what I can tell, Dodge hardly ever gets any of the good movies that come out (I think that we only had one or two that were Oscar-nominated last year). And on the extremely rare occasion that Dodge actually (italics)does(italics) get a good movie, it’s outrageously expensive to see it (I mean come on, $8.00? Are you kidding me?!??). The inspiration for one part of this column came from the preview to “Halloween II,” a terrible-looking, horrible, good-for-absolutely-nothing-except-for-inspiring-murders-and-other-heinous-crimes movie. I can understand Hollywood’s motivationforcreatingsuchfilms–theyseemto do very good at the box office. But, don’tthese studios have moral and ethical obligations thattheyshouldfulfillaswell? When I see such previews, I am absolutely revolted – why would a person pay that previously mentioned, ridiculous price to see someone basically chop up innocent people? And to boot, studios are making gross, disgusting profitsoffofthesemovies.Theymightaswellhave blood on their hands. All these movies really accomplish, in my opinion, is inspiring already unstable people

(after all, why would they see this type of a movie if they weren’t?) to do terrible, violent, and stupid things. I’m not one to say that what you read or watch (“good” or “bad”) will make you do something like going out and killing someone, but I can’t say that the type of movies mentionedaboveinfluencesyoutodoanythinggood either. I have a confession… I, too, am not above watching this type of movie (although the movies I watch that have violence have at least (italics)some(italics) historical or cultural significance)… After all, when I saw the“Halloween II” preview, I was getting ready towatch“InglouriousBasterds,”amovie that,save being pretty good in most parts, was gory and downright violent in others. And actually, the only reason I watched (italics)this(movie) was because I had a free movie pass.

Unless a movie the caliber of “The Curious CaseofBenjaminButton,”“SevenPounds,”

or “Doubt” is in theaters, I probably won’t fork over almost $20 to

watch the movie and maybe (God forbid) eat the theater’s popcorn, which is almost always stale and hardly ever fresh (but, somehow always expensive). In most cases, I’ll opt for the cheaper, and in fact more convenient, method of movie watching – a movie from my Netflix queue, my comfysofa, and a cheap bag of popcorn

from Wal-Mart, always fresh, and always hot.

Ifsomeepicmovie,andImeanEPIC,comes out, then maybe I’ll be able to justifyspending that much money on seeing a movie, butmostofthetime,Ijustdon’tthinkit’sworthit. After all, I can buy the movie a few months later at a cheaper price than I can watch it in theaters, and get the added bonus of watching it over and over until I’m sick of it and can sell it back to Hastings.

All in all, the movie industry is in a sad state of affairs, and I have absolutely no interest in forking over my hard-earned money to watch worthlessfilth. AndamessagetoHollywood:work harder, because you’re getting lazy. Thanks!

Movies, Movies, MoviesThe declining state of the movie industry

-Luke Bunker

09.25.09 DODGEROpinion

15

What would you do if you felt you didn’t have much time left? Would you talk to someone

you didn’t know, or maybe say something you always wanted to say? Well, you just might want to get on that. No, I’m not saying that you don’t have much time left to live, but there are some people who fully believe so, and some who think that we are all in for a major change in our lives. But when you ask? The year of 2012.

Whether you have heard the rumors and speculations about 2012 or not, I believe it would be in our best interest as the youth of the nation to be aware about certain things that have been observed about this year.

All this craziness started when someone looked at a Mayan calendar. The Mayans, an ancient civilization of Indians which resided in Mexico from the time of 2600 B.C. to 1500 A.D., were known to be very good with time and dates. Their technique for telling the time was using the sun, stars, and anything in the solar system that could help them. The calendar that the civilization created was so amazing, in the fact that they used it to predict the future and tell of coming astrological phenomenons. The Mayans didn’t predict the settling of the Spaniards, who forced them out of their land, but they did predict the events of September 11 and important meetings of our world leaders.

The dates implied were all perfectly accurate as well. The most significant thing about the Mayan calendar is that it ends on the date of December 21, 2012. The calendar signifies the date as a major turning point for the history

of the world.Taking from what the Mayans

predicted is not enough to say a major change will occur, but it was enough to catch certain researcher’s interests. The general thought of why it ends on that date, is that the Mayans expected the earth to go through a rebirth phase. That would infer ice ages we’ve had, or the end of the time of dinosaurs, as we have always come into a new generation after such periods of time.

Some people simply believe the Mayans ran out of calendar room, and there is nothing to worry about. And some radicals believe that it is a symbol for the destruction of our world. Whatever the meaning may be, other well-known philosophers have also put in a take on 2012, but the strange thing is, none of them knew anything about each other.

The Chinese made early predictions about the date, believing it was the coming of something special to the whole world, as they had their experiences in astrology as early as the Chinese dynasty “I-Ching”. The early Hindu’s as well had apocalyptic ideas. Next, was the philosopher Nostradamus, who predicted the rise of Napoleon as an “anti-Christ”, the rise of Hitler as the second “anti-Christ”, and the tragedy of September 11.

Predicting Hitler, Nostradamus said, “Beasts ferocious from hunger will swim across rivers. The greater part of the region will be against the Hister, the great one will cause it to be dragged in an iron cage, when the German child will observe nothing.” Who he refers to as Hister has been assumed as Hitler, missing his name by one letter. And as Hitler seduced his people, ignored all treaties, and began a massive invasion of Europe, his vague prediction kind of seems significant. As for Sept. 11, he said “At forty-five degrees the sky will burn; Fire to approach the great new city; In an instant a great scattered flame will leap up; When one will want to demand proof of the Normans.” As he doesn’t come out and specifically

say it, it can be debated what this means, but one thing is factual. At 45 degrees latitude is where New York lies on a map. Great scattered flame of the towers, and one will want to demand proof of the Normans. Could the Normans possibly be the terrorist group who harmed America that President Bush insistently pushed towards finding? Nothing can be said for sure, but as he also predicted a downfall in 2012, where “the great cycle of centuries will be renewed,” it seems there might be reason to give some thought to these wacky predictions.

With only three civilizations and two men, one being the wizard Merlin whom I didn’t mention, predicting something big, there is no reason to flip out on these theories. But if you’re into religion, some Catholics have had things to say about it as well. The Vatican in Rome, which is where the Pope resides with the College of Cardinals, followed closely to the prophecies of St. Malachy.

One day in a state of trance, Malachy shockingly uttered a prophecy of all Popes he saw before doomsday. He described them, and what they would be like, or named, and all together he saw 112 Popes. The current Pope, Benedict 16th, is number 111. The thought of the Catholics is that this Pope will accept a plan of world peace from the “anti-Christ” and turn the world against the Bible’s God.

Considering how everyone has his/her own religious thoughts, isn’t something everyone has to find significance in. You can’t say that it’s not strikingly odd though.

Finally getting out of all the prediction and religion aspects of 2012, I have some information on what science buffs believe. Researchers have come to a fair conclusion that upheavals in the sun’s magnetic fields will generate gigantic solar flares that will affect the polarity of the entire Earth. The result being, our magnetic field reversing all at once, causing catastrophic consequences for humanity. Such an event would

also cause massive earthquakes demolishing all buildings on the planet, and instigate colossal tsunamis and intense volcanic activity.

In fact, the Earth’s crust would even shift, sweeping continents thousands of miles away from their present positions. This scientific idea is portrayed in the upcoming movie “2012”, which shows the destruction of the world according to such things happening. It also talks about how the governments of the world would try to save as many lives as possible, and ensure the existence of our species. The trailer can be seen on You-Tube or any other such site.

Now if all of this hasn’t at least sparked your interest, then I’m not sure what will. With the movie coming out, the government is obviously comfortable showing America the possibility of such destruction, even at the cost of more panic it could cause. It is just a movie however, and Hollywood could just be making more money.

Nothing of all I said can be taken as sure signs to something happening. But in my opinion, it is stupid, for lack of a better word, to think that everything is for sure, but it’s ignorant to think that it’s an impossibility. With all the different thoughts, opinions, and speculations on 2012, it’s still up to you to make your educated opinion.

But if nothing else, maybe these thoughts will help the world leaders to get away from their power struggles and off their high horses, and perhaps come together as one. The same goes for the people of the world.

Don’t take what you have for granted, folks, because you never know when you could fall asleep to no tomorrow.

Trevor Otterstein

2012: Could it be the end?

DODGER 09.25.09 News

16

Peg Vogel, ABR

620-227-2129 Business620-227-2408 Fax620-255-5853 Cell

Hancocks of Dodge City, Inc.2300 First AvenueDodge City, KS 67801

Don’t forget to purchase your 2010 Yearbook.

Only $45!Price goes up to $50

in January.See Mrs. Gobin

in the main office

Counselor’s Corner

2009-2010 Colleges/ Military Representatives

Visits

(During OP 9:28-10:08)

If you are interesting in visiting with any of the following, see Mrs. Edwards in the Student Services Center. She will stamp your planner.

All colleges and military representa-tives will be stationed in the Com-mons area during OP unless other-wise posted. Fort Hays State University: 10/20 Seward County: 10/27Pittsburgh: 11/10

More to come! Check the announcements in the Commons area on a weekly basis.

Coming Up!!

College Planning Conference. Monday, Oct. 5 in the DCHS Field House.

Juniors, seniors, and parents will be able to visit with over 40 college and military representatives!

Each year DCHS hosts two annual blood drives, at which students, teachers and staff can donate blood. The first of this year’s blood drives will be hosted on Nov. 11.

Sign up’s for the fall blood drive will began around Nov. 1 during lunch. Anyone who do-nates blood must be at least 17 years old or 16 with a waiver form. The donor must weigh at least 110 pounds and be in overall good health.

The whole process of giving blood takes about 30 minutes. Each donor gives one pint of blood. If you are wondering how much that is, less than a bottle of pop sold at the vending machines.

The blood drive this fall has a goal to collect 100 pints of blood. The 100 pints of blood could possibly save up to 200 lives!

“In order to have a successful donation, it is important that the students begin drinking extra fluids at least the day before,” said Virgil Hutchcraft, NHS sponsor. “They also should eat a healthy breakfast and lunch that day.”

Student donors are also required to bring a photo ID the day of the blood drive.

Once the blood is all collected it is taken to Wichita to the Red Cross Distribution Center.

This blood drive is sponsored by the Ameri-can Red Cross and the National Honor Society.

Annual blood drive to be held Nov. 11 with goals in mind

-Alysia Garvalena

Swine flu dominates the headlines as it causes people to panic and fear the common cold. Swine flu, also known as H1N1, is a new strain of the flu virus that affects birds, pigs, and humans.

“I hear about swine flu in the news all of the time, but it isn’t something that worries me since I know that my immune system has my back,” said Natasha Sanchez, 12.

The swine flu presents itself as the common flu with symptoms of fever, cough, sore throat, runny nose, body aches, headaches, fatigue, and vomiting. One defining characteristic of this virus is that that symptoms seems to relieve themselves and then later return. It can even turn fatal in rare cases.

Because of their high social interaction, teens are more likely to catch the swine flu. This virus is spread though coughing, sneez-

ing, hand shaking, or even toughing other ob-jects that an infected person has come in contact with. The swine flu is not transmitted through eating pork.

“I am pretty much a germ freak,” said Sam-mi Kinkelaar, 12. “I hate touching things that are in high traffic areas because the only thing I can see is a cesspool of germs!”

With such a high risk of simply touching something that is infected, the best way to pro-tect oneself from this virus is by washing hands. Also, using hand sanitizer is a strong defense. This fall, a vaccine will become available for a stronger defense against the swine flu.

“I ate bacon this morning and I have ham ev-eryday! I’m not worried about it really,” Shawn Lampe jokingly commented. He later said he plans to get a flu shot and he gives fewer high fives and more knuckle pounds to protect him-self.

H1N1: Down to the quick facts-Codi Ehrlich

09.25.09 DODGERSports

17

Terry M. RabeCertified Public Accountant

2500 Central • Ste. A • P.O. Box 992Dodge City, KS 67801trabe@sbcglobal.net

http://myHDVEST.com/terryrabe

Preventing heat-relatedsports illnesses

With the high temperatures of heat this summer, many students throughout the U.S. face death due to heat strokes.

In Louisville, Kentucky, players for the high school football teams had two-a-day practices. These practices started at 7 a.m. and ran for a few hours. Teammates later ate brunch, and returned for another session of bone breaking and spine crunching hard work later. These players wore gear and pads that weigh an extra 20+ pounds.

But in the past couple years of these t w o - a - d a y events, the death rate by heat strokes has increased by a small percentage each year.

A fifteen-year-old student from Pleasure Ridge Park High School of Louisville, Kentucky, collapsed one day during practice because of heat exertion. This player was rushed to the hospital and died three days later with a body temperature of 107 degrees.

He became ill when Head Coach Jason Stinson denied him and called him a “wimp” or a “pansy.” Later the coach pleaded not guilty and was found not guilty.

In the last year, six football

Five-time champion Federer loses to newcomer Del Potro in U.S. Open finalplayers have died of high heat

temperatures almost similar to this one. But since 1995, a total of t39 students have died in this manner or in other heat-related illnesses.

“We try to help prevent this problem by having our players come in for summer conditioning which gets them use to the heat outside,” said Head Football Coach Justin Burke.

“We have also been blessed with great weather this season,” he added.

T h e N C A A Division I successfully implemented gu ide - l ines for two-a-day practices.

The association does not push for the ending of two-a-days, but recommend the coaches letting the players become accustomed to the heat before each initial practice. This act will hopefully decrease the death rate.

There are several ways to help prevent any athlete from overheating. One way is by drinking plenty of water and staying hydrated.

Another way is by having a great training staff. Trainers at Dodge City High School are always available for athletes to provide water and medical attention as needed.

-Hunter Edwards

NCAA recommends letting players become

accustomed to the head before

each initial practice.

“Professionals Who Listen”

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Every fall New York City plays host to one of the greatest tennis tournaments of all time. This tournament is known as the U.S. Open. Tennis Stars such as John McEnroe and Andre Agassi have played in this well-known tournament.

This year the tournament saw anything from Djokovic’s impressions of Sharapova and Nadal to Serena’s temper tantrum. No matter what you come for you always get a show at the U.S. Open.

Most of the players really enjoy the atmosphere at the Open. Almost all of them agree that it is one of the best places to play at as long as the fans are behind you. However it can quickly turn into one of the worst places to play when the fans are rooting against you. As in most

tournaments this tournament had a Cinderella story. This year the fans got to watch Melanie Oudin a 17-year-old American advance to the quarterfinals of the tournament. Eventually she was knocked out of the tournament by the eventual runner-up Caroline Wozniacki.

This year the U.S. Open was a tournament full of upsets. The first major upset was when John Isner defeated fellow American Andy Roddick in five sets. The number 16 seed Marin Clic of Croatia defeated Andy Murray who at the time of the U.S. Open was ranked second in the world in the fourth round. The last upset of the tournament was in the men’s final when Roger Federer who won the U.S. Open five times in row lost to Juan Martin Del Potro of Argentina in five sets.

-Ethan Hutchcraft

Taking a swing. Juan Martin Del Potro takes a swing at a ball returned from Roger-Federer during the men’s final match. • Photo Courtesy usopen.org

DODGER 09.25.09 Sports

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Undefeated Red Demons post a 3-0 start on seasonThe Dodge City Red Demon

football team is off to a good start this season with a 3-0 record. The Demons defeated Wichita Southeast 26-3 in Wichita Sept. 4.

“We have been working really hard, and it has been paying off,” said Mario Rayo, 11.

Momentum must have carried over for the Demons from week one when they faced the Wichita East Blue Aces Sept. 11. The Demons gave no reason to doubt them, defeating the Blue Aces 59-0.

“We have a strong team with good unity. We are headed in a good direction,” said Jace Banner, 12.

Defensive Stop. The Red Demon defense gets ready for a series of downs with the Blue Aces. The defense held the Blue Aces scoreless in the home opener for the Demons held Sept. 11, 2009. • Photo Tanya Rangel

Soccer sets tone for season by setting 4-2 recordThe Red Demon soccer team

is looking to build off this year’s Titan Classic. The Demons took fifth in the Titan Classic after beating Wichita North, 4-0, and Wichita East, 5-3. Before the Titan Classic, the soccer team faced Wichita South, host of the Classic ,at Memorial Stadium and beat them 6-0.

“We have played well as a team, and our underclassmen have developed nicely,” said Coach Virgil Hutchcraft.

“In a couple of our games we started off slow, and it cost us. But in the games we have won, we have worked well as a team

Preparing a Cross. Alan Rojas, 11, prepares to cross the ball to teammate Victor Millan during a match against Liberal. • Photo Ethan Hutchcraft

Go Red Demons!

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and communicated strongly,” said midfielder Larry Martinez, 12.

The Demons faced the Hays High Indians last Thursday in Hays and came away with an 8-0 win. The Demons played well as a team and converted on their opportunities.

“Most of our wins have been shutouts this season, which means our defense has been strong,” said goalkeeper Cesar Carmona, 12.

“We have high expectations for this season and we have lots of goals we want to accomplish,” said Carmona.

The junior varsity soccer team has also had a good start to the season holding onto a 4-1 record

and a second place finish at the Liberal tournament.

Last year the Demons lost to the Wichita Southeast Buffaloes in the first round of the state tournament.

This year the Demons hope to win WAC and make it to state.

The Demons will take a 4-2 record onto the road when they travel to two WAC opponents this week facing rival Garden City on Tuesday and Great Bend on Thursday.

The Demons will host Hays TMP Sept. 29 at 4:00 p.m. They will also play host to rival Garden City on Thursday Oct. 1 at 4:00 p.m. Both games will be held at Memorial Stadium.

After the shutout of the Aces in week two, the Demons traveled to Wichita Northwest to face the Wichita North Redskins, Sept. 18. They defeated the Redskins 48-22.

“As a team we have been playing really well. The line has been blocking good which has given Jace good opportunities in his rushing efforts,” said Justin Burke, head coach.

“Ty (Thomas) has been hitting different receivers which has opened up our passing game,” said Burke.

The Demons will host WAC opponent Liberal todnight at 7 p.m. at Memorial Stadium. The Demons will look to improve to 4-0 on the season and 1-0 in WAC play.

-Ethan Hutchcraft

-Ethan Hutchcraft

Soccer

Football

09.25.09 DODGERSports

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Golfers open season on upswingWith a great start this season,

the Dodge City Lady Demons golf team has improved quite a bit since last season.

On Sept. 10 these girls competed at their first home invitational and placed second as a team.

Junior Friyana Shah led the team with a second place finish with junior Brittany Waldman trailing behind in sixth place. The team lost to Garden City by only four strokes.

The season opener was held at Hays. The girls as a team placed second. After the home invite, they traveled to Garden City and also placed second again.

“Our main goals this year are to win regionals and qualify the team for State,” said Waldman.

Volleyball returns to the courtwith high expectations

Team chemistry results in positive start on season tournament play

The Lady Demon tennis team has proven many times this season how team chemistry can go a long way. The girls are really strong from top to bottom this year.

The girls started their season by finishing second as a team at the Great Bend Invitational.

Hannah Thomas took third at #1 singles while Danielle Jones took first at #2 Singles. Tara Schubert and Jenay Unruh placed third at # 1 doubles while Courtney McDaniel and Kylie Newton placed second at #2 doubles.

After placing second at the Great Bend Tournament, the team traveled to Great Bend for a second time where they took third as a team.

A big accomplishment for the girl’s tennis team was placing second at the Goddard Invitational, which is usually a very tough meet to compete at.

“We did really well at Goddard as a team and it is a big accomplishment that we came away with second place,” said Unruh.

The girls hosted their only home tournament of the year on Sept. 17 where they placed second in a field of eight teams.

“Our team has really stepped

With each teammate improving each week and Head Coach Jim Mapel pushing the girls to their limit, these girls will definitely become WAC Champions, Regional Champs, or at least qualify for State, which is slated to be held at the Dodge City Country Club.

The girls also competed in Hays for the season opener. As a team, they placed second and individually Shah took second and Waldman finished with fifth.

“As a team we are scoring more points than last year,” said Coach Mapel.

“If the girls continue to improve and make progress throughout the season, there will be a good chance that we will qualify for state.”

-Hunter Edwards

up, and we have two good coaches who help us with issues we find difficult,” said Tara Schubert

The junior varsity girl’s tennis team hasn’t lost a single match this season.

On Tuesday they travel to Liberal in hopes to continue their magic. On Saturday the junior varsity team travels to Pratt for their last tournament of the year. Varsity will travel to Garden City Saturday, Sept. 26.

Serving it up. Senior Tara Schubert serves to her opponent during the girls home tournament Sept. 17, placings second • Photo Hutchcraft

Kicking off the season on a positive note, the volleyball team hopes to make another appearance at Sub-State.

Their first game of the year was held at Derby, Kansas. Here the girls played really well and gave everything they had. The girls went 1-1 with their only loss to Derby.

“It has been really great winning all of these games this year,” said Tiffany Flax, 12.

“With our high expectations and great team chemistry, there will be no doubt that we will win WAC and qualify for state.”

The girls are playing together with a great amount of team chemistry. With this chemistry the girls will succeed in more wins and more spikes. Head Coach Katie Szymczak has a vision that this group of girls will go far this season.

“The girls this year are working very hard,” said Coach Szymczak.

“The girls are pushing early this season to accomplish the goals they have set. We have been working on the big and small things in practice which will make a big difference at game time.”

On Sept. 9, DCHS hosted their first home quad which went really well. The teams who made an appearance were Lakin, Hays, and Sublette. The Lady Demons came out on top with a 3-0 record for that day.

These ladies will once again hold another home quad dual Sept.29.

-Hunter Edwards

Girls Golf Starting with high hopes

Senior PhotosDue Jan. 6,

2010-Ethan Hutchcraft

Girls Tennis

DODGER 09.25.09 Sports

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Off to a rough start, runners push themselves to improveThe girls cross country team

has had a rough start. Losing most of their top varsity runners last year due to graduation, these runners have worked hard and pushed each other to make improvements on their times.

“Practice has been going really well. The junior varsity has been doing great this year, but I think varsity has a little more room to improve,” said senior Maria Schmitt.

Demon Athletics

FootballWichita SE 9/4/09 W 26-3Wichita East 9/11/09 W 59-0Wichita North 9/18/09 W 48-22Liberal 9/25/09 --------- Great Bend 10/2/09 ---------Hays 10/9/09 ---------Goddard 10/16/09 ---------Maize 10/23/09 ---------Garden City 10/30/09 ---------

Girls GolfHays 8/30/09 2ndDodge City 9/10/09 2ndGarden City 9/14/09 2ndSalina South 9/22/09 ---------Liberal 9/24/09 ---------Wichita North 9/30/09 ---------Hutchinson 10/1/09 ---------Great Bend 10/6/09 ---------Regionals 10/12/09 ---------

VolleyballDerby 9/3/09 1-1Home Quad 9/10/09 3-0Buhler 915/09 2-1Liberal 9/19/09 4-2Home Quad 9/29/09 ---------Lawrence 10/3/09 ---------Garden City 10/8/09 ---------Scott City 10/09/09 ---------WAC (GC) 10/17/09 ---------Sub State 10/24/09 ---------

Girls TennisGreat Bend 9/8/09 2ndGreat Bend 9/12/09 3rdGoddard 9/15/09 2ndDodge City 9/17/09 2ndSalina South 924/09 ---------Garden City 9/26/09 ---------Hutchinson 10/1/09 ---------Liberal 10/5/09 ---------Regionals 10/8/09 ---------

Cross CountryGreat Bend 9/3/09 B7thPerryton(Girls) 9/5/09 ---------Valley Center 9/8/09 ---------Hutch(Boys) 910/09 B4thHays 9/17/09 B7thStanton County 9/26/09 ---------Stillwater 10/3/09 ---------Salina Central 10/10/09 ---------WAC 10/15/09 ---------Regionals 10/24/09 ---------

Boys SoccerWichita South 9/3/09 W 6-0Titan Classic 9/7/09 L 0-2Titan Classic 9/9/09 W 4-0Titan Classic 9/12/09 W 5-3Liberal 9/15/09 L 1-2Hays 9/17/09 W 8-0Garden City 9/22/09 ---------Great Bend 9/24/09 ---------Hays TMP 9/29/09 ---------Garden City 10/1/09 ---------Wichita Heights 10/9/09 ---------Great Bend 10/13/09 ---------Maize 10/15/09 ---------

The boy’s team this year has also had a rough start. Like the girls, the boys have improved over the season so far. Their times are improving greatly and their potential is perfect.

“We have had a rough start this year, but we are improving times as we go on throughout the season,” said junior Justin Dewell.

“If we keep working harder than ever, we will start beating other teams in no time.”

Head girls coach Brian Lenz is helping these girls make better times by having longer timed distances to run. This will allow the girls to increase their endurance and will allow them to run in their meets with better times.

Senior Peter Neidhart is hoping to lead the boys in times that will blow away the competition. Dewell will also be helping Neidhart achieve this goal and push other teammates.

The girls traveled to Perryton, Kansas and battled their hearts out to finish really well.

While the girls were at Perryton, the boys traveled to Hutchinson a couple weeks later.

Now both the boys and the girls will face off at Johnson-Stanton County on Saturday, Sept. 26. They are looking to place higher then in previous meets.

-Hunter Edwards

Scoreboard

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