The Falcon Flyer

Volume XIII, Issue I 21401 SE Falcon Way Kent, WA October 8, 2009

Know your
Teachers!

Teacher Strike The Informant Cross Country

2 Contents
The Falcon Flyer

News, Pg 3
Kentlake students and staff are amazing.
Through the sale of our Livestrong Wrist-
“Treasured director bands AND collecting change/money during
all three lunches last Friday, the KL Social
battles cancer” Committee will be making a contribution to
the Lance Armssey) in the amount of …

Op-ed, Pg 6 $828.85
“Teacher strike: We still have wristbands available for a $5 dona-
selfish or selfless?” tion.
November is Pancreatic Cancer Awareness
month—so stay tuned for further events and mon-
ey drives.

Features, Pg 3 Mark your calendar for Sunday, November 1st- for

“Things you always the
wanted to ask your Puget Sound Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Walk

teachers” http://www.pancan.org/section_get_in-
volved/events_fundraising/event_details.

Meet the Press

Cynthiann Heckelsmiller...................................Co-Editor in Chief

Student life, Pg 13
Christine Rushton..............................................Co-Editor in Chief
Alyssa Ryan.................................................................Op-ed Editor
Yasmin Abubakar..............................................Student Life Editor
Mike Lydon....................................................................A&E Editor
Holly Pirret.................................................................Sports Editor
Kayla Maletich..................................................Businuess Manager “Homecoming how to”
Spencer Transier............................................................Webmaster
Staff Reporters
Brian Benshoof Jason Hirschey

A&E, Pg 15
Keith Bolender Erin Hunt
Kelsey Bolton Jacob Langholz
Brendan Cescon Nicole Luce
Michala Dymond Shaw Amy Reiter
Matt Davis Michaela Mandala “Soderberg, Damon
Kierra Elfalan Megan Rogers
return in top
comedic form”
Craig Heffner Ryan Snyder
Jerel Henderson Daniel Tadeo
Kiley Throop Mckenna Herron
Melissa Pitchford Steven Weier
Kentlake High School

Sports, Pg 18
Phone: (253) 373-4900 Fax: (253) 373-4908
Principal: Diana Pratt
Adviser: Susan Best
TheFalconFlyer.com
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the Kentlake community, adhering to strong journalistic principles.
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Treasured director battles cancer
Photo by Cynthiann Heckelsmiller
Pam Cressey picketing for the teacher’s strike.
Spencer Transier
Web Master
Sadness struck the halls with the news that drama recover from it so I can start the next step, which is
teacher Pam Cressey has been diagnosed with pan- chemo and radiation. I’m ready.”
creatic cancer.
According to Jacob Axelson, a member of the dra-
ma program, when Cressey was admitted to the hos-
pital, a bile valve blockage was found in her liver.
“They went in, and [...] they didn’t know what was
New Vice Principal roams the building
Matt Davis
Staff Reporter
Vice principal, Ian McFeat joins the administra-
tion team and replaces Gary Melton who departed
in the spring of 2009 to Malaysia, where he became
a principal.
Although McFeat is new to Kentlake, he is
certainly not new to Washington. He attended high
school in Eastern Washington and later transferred
to Pacific Lutheran University. At PLU, McFeat
earned degrees in writing and teaching.
For the next nine years he pursued his teaching
career in the Tacoma School District. Recently, he
earned his principal’s certification, which coincided
with the vice-principal opening.
As an administrator, McFeat has the opportunity
to implement new ideas, one of which is the one-
minute music warning bell. He hopes to make it a
permanent change.
McFeat has other plans as well, he said, “…be
The Falcon Flyer
wrong with her and so
she had her surgery [...]
but her test results came
back [on Sept. 22] and
she has pancreatic can-
cer,” said Axelson.
According to the Hirsh-
berg Foundation for Pan-
creatic Cancer Research,
“Seventy-five percent of
pancreatic cancer pa-
tients die within the first
12 months of the diagno-
sis. The 5-year survival
rate is 5 percent.” While
this statistic seems grim,
Cressey’s case of cancer
is different from the usu-
al patient.
Cressey accepts her
cancer and is ready to do
anything to fight it. “I’m
going to have a meeting
with one of my oncolo-
gists today, I’m meeting
three of them, the three
best in Seattle; so I’m
getting three different
opinions today on what chemo and radiation to start.
My surgery, which was a really big part of getting rid
of what was in there. It was really successful, I’ve
had absolutely no problems from it except trying to
Tamara Barnhart, Cressey’s friend and colleague,
said, “She’s got to recover for four weeks, and then
she’ll start chemo therapy. And then, from what she
told me is she’ll probably do a month of chemo thera-
py. And then she’ll have a month to rest, for her body
to recover, then she’ll do another month of chemo
Photo by Matt Davis
Vice Principal Ian McFeat
News 3
therapy. So it will be early Spring before she’s all fin-
ished with that.”
Mario Penalver, first year teacher, is the guest
teacher for the drama program during Cressey’s ab-
sence. According to Penalver, it has been challeng-
ing. “Cressey’s a really wonderful person and she has
left quite a mark on this place. I don’t expect myself
to replace her. I expect that I’ll try to keep up the fort
while she’s gone.”
Plans for the continuation of drama are in place.
Auditions for Pamelot, the special musical in honor
of Cressey, are being held October 13 -15; Mr. Penoli-
ver is leading that effort.
Drama member Allison Combs said, “We’re all
really worried, I think [...] we’re just trying to think
positive right now, but we are pretty worried about
her.”
When asked how the staff and students can sup-
port Cressey right now, Principal Diana Pratt said, “I
think one of the things is to do what they can to stay
in touch with her. We’ve got plans for helping with
cooking. We have other plans for helping for other
things that are hard to do when recovering from a
major surgery, housekeeping, cooking is another one.
Then in addition to that, kids are planning a musical
tribute. The other thing they’re doing is moving for-
ward with the drama program, as Mrs. Cressey would
want us to do. [...] Also, fundraisers for the American
Cancer Society.”
The Livestrong fundraiser took place last Friday
to support Cressey and all other cancer fighters and
survivors.
Student Craig Heffner said, “We all just love her
and honestly, without Cressey, I don’t think I would
be an actor.”
When asked what she wanted to say to the staff
and students, an emotional Cressey said, “I just need
those prayers. [...] Tell them thank you, from the bot-
tom of my heart and to keep it up, because I’m not
done yet.”
more visible in the classroom” and show support
for the teachers and what they do. Also, to make
sure students do not fall through the cracks,
McFeat wishes to be visible to the student body.
McFeat seems to have already made impres-
sions on some of the students. An anonymous
junior said, “He seems like a cool guy and has a
good personality. [It] seems like he knows how to
get things done in a fun and interesting way, like
the music in the halls the last minute of passing
periods.”
Kentlake has also made an impression on him.
McFeat is in awe by the majority of the students
choosing what is right and also by their intelli-
gence. In addition, he said, “the wealth of clubs is
all so overwhelming,” while the parental support
evident in the school is amazing.
Outside of school, McFeat has a profound in-
terest in soccer and in poetry. McFeat also enjoys
working on Volkswagen buses during his free
time, which is less now because of his two young
daughters.
4 News
The Falcon Flyer

Teachers rally for fair working conditions Brackin-Johnson, clarified the

Christine Rushton
Co Editor-in-Chief
Kent Education Association gathered at Kentlake
to vote for a new contract proposal early in the morn-
ing of Sept. 14. In a 94 percent agreement, teachers
and other members voted to accept the contract, end-
ing a two week long strike.
Earlier on Aug. 26, the KEA union members voted
to deny the Kent School District’s contract offer. Over
the next 12 days, while union and district bargaining
teams negotiated a new contract, members partici-
pated in daily strike operations outside the schools
and administrative office.
On Sept. 1, the District filed an injunction with
the courts against the KEA. At a press conference by
the district office, Superintendent Edward Lee Var-
gas said, “Strikes by public school employees are il-
legal.”
Following on Sept. 3, the courts ruled against the
KEA’s actions, ordering the union members back to
school. However, with an overwhelming 74 percent
majority, the teachers chose to continue striking.
This continued until the Sept. 4 decision. The agree-
ment also saved teachers from having to pay upwards
to 1000 dollars in court fines for not following the
ruling.
In several press addresses, KEA President, Lisa
union’s agreement requirements.
Brackin-Johnson was adamant
about the district addressing “class
size and time with our students.”
Brackin-Johnson emphasized
their desires to gain what is right
for the students and to provide for
their needs.
In short, the KEA stated that
they wanted fewer meetings each
week and smaller class sizes. The
district maintained that they did
not have the money to make all of
the changes possible.
Both class size and time were
addressed by the negotiating
teams in the final two-year con-
tract. In K-3, relief (extra time for Photo by Cynthiann Heckelsmiller
grading or planning) is allowed at
26 students, with a class size cap Teachers picket at district office.
at 29 students. In grades 4-6, relief is allowed at 30
students, with a cap at 32 students. In middle school, On the contract ratification, PE and health instructor,
the target is set at 147 students per day, and at high Julie Smith, said, “It’s a stepping stone.” Like many,
school, 157 students per day. PE and music classes she knew that not everyone got what they wanted, but
have no targets. she was alright with the agreement. For her and most
Also, there is now a limit of two meetings per week, other teachers in the district, the agreement “opened
and the three meetings in the morning at middle the door to make more gains in the future.”
schools have been eliminated.

Exonerated Teacher Returns Security Revitalized

security guards. They also have a
Steven Weier Matt Davis wealth of knowledge to share with
Staff Reporter Staff Reporter the remaining security personnel,
which can be used to reduce and
Rick McCurdy, a woodshop teacher at Due to the School Resource prevent crime within the school.
Cedar Heights Middle School, was accused Officer Program recently imple- Vice Principal Ian McFeat said,
of hitting a student last spring. An investi- mented into the Kent School Dis- “It helps with discipline.” Also,
gation later revealed this claim to be false. trict, King County Deputy Bald- McFeat clarified that having an
Safety has always been one of McCurdy’s win is now a part of the security SRO does not change current
main priorities. Students are required to team. He works with private se- school rules. He is here for the
memorize the safety rules and are tested on curity guard, Micki Preston. safety of the students, an impor-
them. The School Resource Officer tant issue for the district.
Donovan Blaire, the involved student, al- Program, also known as the SRO The district believes this new
leged that McCurdy pulled him away from a Program, is a part of numer- adjustment in security is a step
drill press because he had not secured loose ous school districts throughout forward in protecting schools.
clothing. According to Blaire, the situation the country, including local ones McFeat said “It’s odd Kentlake
continued to escalate. such as Au- didn’t have an
Blaire left the class to complain to the burn, Issaquah, “It’s odd Kentlake didn’t SRO before. It
office about McCurdy’s actions, which he Renton, and have an SRO before. It is is usually the
considered more dangerous than loose Tahoma. It is norm.”
usually the norm.”
clothing. He later stated that when he came a nationwide Even though
Photo by Steven Weier
back, McCurdy slapped him. program that school has not
consists of a -Vice Principal McFeat been in session
McCurdy was given two days of admin- Rick McCurdy at Cedar Heights.
istrative leave, so the district, as required partnership long, Baldwin
ply. McCurdy pulled him away from the between local law enforcement has already made an impact in the
by law, could investigate the situation. The
drill press because Blaire’s coat sleeve could and the schools. minds of certain students. Senior
inquiry concluded McCurdy was innocent
have gotten stuck in the rotating drill bit. According to a Kent School Dis- Cameron Ellis was stopped in his
of all charges. However, he was told he had
“If you call that hitting, I guess that’s trict pamphlet, the SRO Program car on his way to a job shadow and
“overenthusiastically” enforced the safety
what I did,” McCurdy said, “He got caught is beneficial in the school commu- had to explain to the deputy how
rules.
doing something wrong and [it] probably nity because having a county offi- he had an excuse slip. Ellis said
McCurdy had not hit Blaire. Earlier that
embarrassed him in front of the whole class. cer is more cost effective for the “It annoyed me, but I am kind of
day, he had told Blaire to take care of his
He decided to get back at me.” school district than hiring private glad someone is patrolling.”
loose clothing, but Blaire had failed to com-
 The Falcon Flyer
News 5
Potential flooding sparks action Tabaczynski in finalist round

Michala Dymond-Shaw Amy Reiter

Staff Reporter Staff Reporter

The Howard Hanson Dam in the Green River Valley Jan Tabaczynski has qualified as a final-
is currently under construction in an attempt to fix leaks ist in the National Merit Scholarship com-
in the upper section of the Dam’s right abutment. petition.
Failure to repair the dam would result in extensive During Tabaczynski’s junior year, he took
flooding of the valley this winter. The Green River Valley the PSAT and scored 222 out of a possible
includes areas of Kent, Auburn, Renton, and Tukwila. 240 points. This qualified him for the com-
petition along with seniors Brian Oliphant
The Army Corps of Engineers is overseeing repairs,
and Cory Shiraishi.
hoping to reduce the amount of flooding. A temporary The competition is high level. Shiraishi
fix is the current goal; the permanent will not be com- said, “You take the test and if you score in the
pleted for several years. top one percent in the state then you’re in.”
In the Kent School District, three schools will be af- Once qualified, a semi-finalist title is given;
fected; Mill Creek Middle School, Kent Elementary if the score turns out to be in the top one
School, and Neely O’Brian Elementary School. percent of the state, the finalist round be-
Mill Creek Principal Anthony Brown said meetings gins where scholarships soon follow. Tabac-
regarding this issue are attended by organizations such Photo by King County zynski moved on to the finalist round.
as “FEMA, the City of Kent, and the Red Cross.” Brown Tabaczynski was excited, but said that it
said that no plans in regards to flooding are yet official, Green River flooding in 1995. was stressful waiting for the test results. He
has had a good support system helping him
as they are ever changing.
along the way. “My parents are happy that I
According to the District’s current plan, sandbags are Many government buildings will be flooded as well, in- won. They don’t have to pay as much for col-
the first resources to go into action in case flooding oc- cluding the King County Animal Shelter, seeing up to lege now. They’ve always pushed me hard to
curs. “Three types of sandbags will be used: one-person three feet of water, and Regional Justice Center, seeing do better.”
sandbags, sandbags that weigh one ton, and 100 foot up to four feet of water. Tabaczynski already has big plans for his
bladder bags, which are filled with water,” said an em- The manager of a local Shari’s had a similar reaction. future. “I want to go to college, a major one
ployee from the City of Kent. “We’re not really preparing ourselves at this location like UW or MIT. I want to study engineering
If extensive flooding oc- quite yet.” maybe, but I’ll figure it out for sure after a
curs as predicted, several “They told us the disaster could be of However, Riverbend Golf Com- few years of being there. I don’t know what
businesses throughout the Katrina proportions.” I want to do yet.” His high school class load
plex is aware of the possible dan-
area will also be underwa- has included difficult Advanced Placement
gers they are facing. “Last sum- courses. He said, “I’m taking four AP class-
ter. While some are aware -Riverbend Golf Complex employee mer, they had to close down part es this year. Oh, and physics and band.”
of the dangers that face of the golf course to work on the Tabaczynski took only a few practice
them, others have not be- levee” said an employee. “They tests in preparation for the PSAT. However,
gun to worry. told us the disaster could be of Katrina proportions.” qualifying for this honor has taken a lot of
“I’ve heard it could be [flooded], I don’t know honest- Currently, people are advised by the government to energy and many years of instruction.
ly. […] [My employer] has not talked to us about it,” said take their own precautions. Flood insurance is strongly When asked what his life goal was, Tabac-
Johanna, an employee at Best Western and Plaza by the advised, as well as sand bags to reduce damage. zynski said, “Yeah, change the world to
Green, (which resides within the flood zones). make it a better place.”

Mass scheduling changes cause commotion

Keith Bolender
Staff Reporter
Even after a new system had been put in place
for creating student schedules last spring, school be-
gan with hundreds of requests for schedule changes.
Counselors hand entered student schedules in April
and May trying to avoid a mass amount of changes
when school began.
Schedules were not available during Falcon Days
because the deadline was not met for the district’s
computer program to release the schedules.
Vice Principal Bruce Rick said, “It’s just like trying
to juggle a bunch of things at once.”
Senior Conner Ward said, “[it was a] big hassle…I
had to change my schedule twice, I got the class I
wanted the first time, and the second time I had to fix
it because I was getting marked absent for the class I for one period of the day such as Yearbook and Psy-
switched out of.” chology. In some cases, these “singletons” overlap
One scheduling problem occurs when a student each other.
does not pick an alternate class and gets placed in an “There are ways to avoid these same mistakes in
elective they do not want because their chosen class future years…we’re considering eliminating giving
is full. out schedules on Falcon Day”, said Rick. He also
Another major problem is that each school is only said, “[that] tennis shoe registration (physically go-
allotted a certain number of teachers in certain ar- ing to booths that have been setup by the teachers to
eas, and the schedule has to be made schedule one’s classes) is
based on that number and the num- “We’re considering eliminat- a possibility”.
ber of students that want to or need ing giving out schedules on Rick also said that
to take that course. Falcon Day.” “elimination of SLCs is a
Our school uses small learning possibility.” When asked
communities (SLCs), which limits -Vice Principal Bruce Rick what would need to hap-
students to certain classes during pen if SLCs were not
certain periods. eliminated, Rick said, “If
A third issue is that some classes are known as we don’t eliminate SLCs then we have to limit the
“singletons”, which means that they are only offered choices that students can have on their schedules.”
6 Op-ed
The Falcon Flyer
Stockpiled Satuday ruins ‘09 Homecoming experience
Ryan Snyder
Staff Reporter
This year’s homecoming “Saturday” is the newest
addition to the carnivale themed stockpile of events
that has become Oct 17. This update to the calendar
poses a threat to unsuspecting students, who plan on
attending both the game and the dance, and will be a
abundant amount of half asleep zombie dates.
With the game on Saturday, the female attendance
will be immensely less because of hair, nail, and
make-up appointments, which cannot be cancelled
“For most teenagers,
who cannot keep to
in the context that, it is their final homecoming and
are going to regret not going. In the end, seniors have
to make a decision on attending the game and being
late to the dance and/or skipping a multitude of in-
dispensable appointments.
Attendance and spirit are directly affiliated with
and affected by these problems. Football games are
supposed to generate school spirit, something which
Kentlake greatly lacks. The more students that can
rally together at games, the more pride and spirit our

detriment to our school spirit.
The football game usually kicks off homecoming
weekend, however not this year; it is six and a half
hours before the dance. By the time the game gets
over it will be roughly three o’clock, allowing only
four hours to slip into a dress or tux, eat an over-
priced meal, and take an enormous amount of awk-
wardly posed pictures. For the average teenager, who
can not keep to a schedule anyway, the outlook is not
good.
For a high school guy, attending a football game
requires an ample amount of energy, but especially
requires an ample amount of rest afterward. We need
to recharge, reenergize, and eat, so that we can be-
come mentally prepared for the next thing on our
agenda. Having the game on the same day as the
dance makes it impossible to do this, creating an
a schedule anyway,
the outlook is not
good.”
or postponed. Teenage girls put a lot of emphasis on
looking good and it definitely takes time to apply var-
ious techniques of beautification. The appointments
are an essential part of the homecoming experience,
and bring new enjoyment to the average teenage life.
Seniors have a right to be up in arms because it
gives them less time to enjoy the little things in life
that are approaching for the last time. A homecom-
ing game and dance for a senior means a whole lot,
school will have. Students will have to make a deci-
sion.
Many will be forced to sacrifice the grandeur of
going to the homecoming football game, and that is
just plain wrong. They are missing out on the fun-
filled activities this event brings, including tailgat-
ing and the oh-so glorious half time knighting of the
homecoming king and queen, as well as the assorted
princes and princesses.
The close proximity of the homecoming football
game and dance will cause much grief, in some cases
even severe anxiety, because students will not have
the necessary preparation time they desire; time is
not on anyone’s side this year. When life throws you
lemons, you just have to adapt and hope for the best;
that is exactly what we have to do on our “stockpiled”
homecoming.

Obama’s speech to American youth causes unnecessary mayhem

discover what that is.” said Obama. He spoke moti- leader in democracy.” Our country needs to learn
Amy Reiter vating words to the students and related his child- respect for authority and accept that maybe our
Staff Reporter hood life to the present lives that teens live in today. government can help. Mark Gaul said” if it’s coming
He encouraged them to strive for the best and take from the president, it has to be good. I have to put
On September 8, 2009, President Barack Obama responsibility for your actions. Everyone makes mis- my trust in the government and know that they are
spoke at Wakefield High School in Arlington, Vir- takes, but they need to learn doing the right thing.” In a democracy we have to
ginia to students how to make something out of allow people to react and get it out of their system;
across America. nothing. “Here in America, you but how far is too far? Seriously people. Obama is in
His speech was write your own destiny. You no way trying to tell anyone how to live their lives,
well performed make your own future.” Said or trying to take over the country through a simple
and motivating, Obama. Parents’ reactions were speech. Encouragement can go a long way, so let the
however some more self-centered than con- president try and make this connection. “Work hard
disagree. The cerned toward what would hap- and stay in school” said Obama. Think about it and
media’s exploi- pen toward their children. For stop overreacting to something that was meant to
tation before some, political views got in the help America as a whole. Give him a chance and cut
the speech cre- way of their better judgment. out the drama.
ated a knee-jerk On the ABC news website, one
reaction. Some parent expressed that
parents acted it made them worried
irrationally and that someone would
without think- need direct access to
ing. They felt the children. Obama
offended that was not trying to de-
Obama would mote them or promote
speak to the profanity; or any other
future gen- Photo by shastawolves.com absurd reaction. Par-
erations. Some ents, grandparents,
parents even and guardians inflict
proceeded to advice upon teenagers
pull their children out of their first day of school everyday; yet our country feels the need to
just so they would not have to listen to what they freak out when a harmless connection be-
thought was inappropriate. Has this been taken too tween the president and teens is proposed.
far? How much drama should be allowed or even ac- One outraged parents wrote a comment on
knowledged about such a simple gesture? the ABC news website on September 8, 2009
“Every single one of you has something your “…this man is stepping way out of bounds in
good at. Every single one of you has something to what we have hired him to do…Mr. Barack
offer. And you have a responsibility to yourself to Obama is becoming a dictator rather then a Photo by globalresearch.com

YOUR TURN
The Falcon Flyer asked students
what they thought of music play-
ing the last minute of passing
period. These are some of their
responses.
“I think it helps, but I don’t
like the music.”
Sophiya Tsvan, junior
Vampire craze escalates to absurdity
Brendan Cescon
Staff Reporter
Everybody has their own little obsession. Some
people enjoy video games and Star Trek; others prefer
stuffed animals and banana flavored candies. How-
ever, out of all the obsessions in today’s pop-culture,
one stands above all others in terms of absurdity as
well as stupidity; vampire fantasies. Fueled by books
and movies such as Twilight, the vampire movement
is an ever growing phenomenon that continues to en-
tertain its supporters and critics alike. Fans fantasize
about the undead, and irritate those too mature to
indulge in such excessive delusions. The absurdity of
vampire hysteria is clear, as are its negative effect on
teens’ perception of romance.
The passion following this series is mind boggling,
especially the attention directed towards Twilight’s
infamous Edward Cullen, a dreamy blood sucker who
likes to watch girls sleep. Sure he is hot and… unique,
but there is also that little control problem. Would
you honestly go out with someone who would may-
be, just maybe, eat you? Definitely a red flag. Sure
a potential partner is going to have some flaws; bad
breath, untidy hair, chapped lips, but actually crav-
ing human bodily fluids (blood, I mean) is sick. Com-
plications like this might be something to bring up in
relationship counseling.
Characters like Edward intrigue teens because of
their mystery; girls like a man who fascinates them.
Unfortunately, when focusing on things like mystery,
one often forgets that vampires are creepy, danger-
Op-ed
The Falcon Flyer 7
“Its cool, but they
should actually play
“Its annoying, but it makes you good music.”
want to get to class quicker... Alie Shipley, sophomore
and it works.”
Nathan Strand, senior
“I like the idea.”
Greg Gordon, sophomore
“Its a good idea, but maybe some music we
know would be better.”
Ashlee Newsom, freshman
ous, and exhibit behavior more consistent with a
convicted serial killer than Mr. Right. This is an im-
mensely ignorant position when searching for a po-
tential mate.
Twilight love is known for its speed; Bella and
Edward’s relationship progresses extraordinarily
fast, going from lab partners to soul mates in a rela-
tively short time span. This is a terribly inaccurate
fantasy that does not paint a good picture of love’s
true nature. By constructing such elaborate fantasies,
books like Twilight dramatize love and obscure real-
ity, damaging teens’ perception of romance. Anyone
with any experience in relationships can recognize
this. Love is complex and cannot be stripped down
to such a simple, superficial notion. However, this
mentality remains strong with many teens, who con-
stantly search for their Edward, never realizing that
the books they worship are merely shallow fantasies
of the author who once wrote them. The real world
is much different from Twilight, which puts major
emphasis on true love and relationships that seem to
appear out of thin air.
While its success is irrefutable, the absurdity of
Twilight and vampire hysteria in general is massive,
and its impact has garnered several new television
shows such as The Vampire Diaries or True Blood.
Once again, Hollywood has found another way to
cash in on an obsessive teen trend, no matter how ri-
diculous it may be. However, there is something to be
learned: if Edward truly is the perfect man, then the
secret of how to succeed with women is now common
knowledge. All you have to do is pretend they make
you sick in biology class, follow them around in your
car at night, and never, ever wash your hair. Photo by thehollywoodnews.com
8 Op-ed
The Falcon Flyer
PRO: Teacher strike a fight for education
Jacob Langholz
Staff Reporter
School: the epitome of our societal system, where we, as teens gather to so-
cialize, bloom, and most importantly, learn. Our teachers work for a pittance to
harness their knowledge and wisdom to aid us in our journey toward adulthood;
what would school be without our teachers? As many know, Kent teachers
were on strike from Aug. 31 until Sep. 15. Many people, though, still wonder
what caused the strike. Aside from the already underpaid teachers’ keen desires
to miss work, not get paid, defy court orders, and obtain outrageous fines, the
KEA actually were striking for the sake and benefit of their students.
Many students might argue that the smaller class sizes and higher teacher pay
holds little benefit to them. This is a gigantic misunderstanding. Lowering the
class sizes allows more teacher-student interaction, which warrants more effi-
cient teaching, not to mention a safer and more manageable class for the instruc-
tor. Yet, this still does not address, nor justify, a salary increase. To better un-
derstand the reasoning behind this, the working conditions of a teacher must be
put into perspective. The teachers are forced to put up with the equivalent of 150
tests a day, all of which try the teachers’ very souls and mental endurance, while
they try to uphold some sort of standard upon said tests. As if this task were not
difficult enough, the teachers must perform this task 180 times a year. Partly due
to its difficulty, being a teacher in many other cultures is to be held in the highest
Photos by Komo4.com
CON: Teacher strike self-centered,unfair
Jennifer Baxter
Guest Reporter
As summer vacation came to a close, we all spent some time wondering,
“Is school going to start on time?” As we were purchasing our new notebooks
and pencils, the chance of a teachers’ strike loomed over our head.
The teachers on strike made several requests. They wanted smaller classes,
fewer mandatory meetings and a higher salary. “We need our workload, our
class size reduced and then we need fair compensation,” said first grade teacher
Maureen Aiken.
Hang on… Less work for more money? This request is similar to demanding
a higher grade than your classmates when you have only done half the work. Sal-
ary should directly vary with the amount of work done. Wouldn’t the opposite of
this – more work and less pay – make more sense than the teacher’s request?
The Kent Education Association’s blog expresses disappointment that “the
district [is] unwilling to reduce overcrowded classes.” Unfortunately, smaller
class sizes would mean more teachers and more classrooms must be available
to teach the displaced students; it would not be right to tell these people that
they are not allowed to go to school anymore because there are too many people.
More money is required for these new teachers and classrooms, which would
result in more budget cuts.
Budget cuts are nothing new to Kent students; in February, the district looked
to cut $12 - $16 million worth of programs and salaries. Students were worried
respects of the students and populous. The revered occupation typically yields
a live-able paycheck and complete set of benefits. In America, and especially in
Washington, teachers are generally already lacking both, and thus at least deserve
better compensation. An extra three to five percent increase in pay is a mere drop
in the bucket compared to what they deserve, but it is an improvement.
As if all that our teachers deal with meant nothing, multiple students have the
audacity to protest against them. Difficult would it be to come up with an in-
you-face insult more disrespectful and ungrateful. However, it is difficult to un-
derstand how one could feel the need to object to the sacrifice the teachers made
to better the same student’s learning experience. To someone of logic, it would
seem counter-productive.
Understandably, KSD parents have harbored frustration with the process. No-
body likes to be inconvenienced, especially when it concerns their brood’s edu-
cation and their ability to work and earn money. When other unions strike, the
receivers of the products or services interrupted usually present frustration and
attempt to act upon it. Despite this, it does not make the goals or determination
of the striking party unjust.
It is true our education was delayed a couple weeks, but few classes have actu-
ally been noticeably disadvantaged. Even the most schedule-bound classes will
manage with the same amount of ease, or difficulty in some cases, as without
delay. All in all, the student body owes respect and gratitude, no matter its opin-
ions, to its guardians, mentors, and caretakers, the teachers.
about the future of music and art classes, as well as sports, for themes seemed to
be on top of the list of programs to be cut. These programs would likely be cut to
achieve smaller class sizes. But where would the music and art students go? This
would result in larger class sizes for these students must be put somewhere.
According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, the unemployment
rate in Washington state as of July 2009 is at 8.8 percent; this means roughly
576,000 Washingtonians are jobless. As people continue to lose their jobs, Kent
teachers have willingly given up their own. By striking, the teachers have affected
parents as well: “[…] I had to miss work. My kids aren’t in daycare.” Said mother
Letitia Castro. Working parents must now muss work to take care of their chil-
dren who should now be in school, which could possible cost them their jobs. It
does not seem courteous that teachers put others’ jobs at risk, does it?
The teachers seem to believe the strike is for the good of the students. “The
Kent educators are here to stand up for what are right and good for our students,”
said Union President Lisa Brackin Johnson. “The Kent Education Association is
now on strike.” However, this strike has led to the delay of students’ education
– the same students teachers claim to be helping. The strike appears to be a dis-
service to these students as they fall behind in their education.
“I teach because I want to make a difference in a child’s view of the world.”
said teacher Virginia O’Malley, who was nominated as one of Virginia’s teachers
of the year for the 2007 – 2008 school year. “Teaching is a way to inspire chil-
dren to believe in their abilities to learn.” What happened to the teachers who
want to make a difference? Kent teachers appear to only be in it for the money.
 The Falcon Flyer
Op-ed
9

Editorial cartoon by Kierra Elfalan

Decreasing civility a growing pandemic

this media attention focused on negativity greatly influ- With the recent outbursts of Kanye West, Serena Wil-
Jerel Henderson ences the minds of our nation’s children. liams, and Joe Wilson it is evident that we have not learned
Staff Reporter To some extent we have always had negativity in the our lesson yet. Worse still, is the fact that each of these
media, but not nearly as bad as today. Some time ago, ten- professionals are involved in different aspects of our soci-
In the Merriam-Webster Dictionary, civility is defined nis superstar John McEnroe showed viewers everywhere ety. I mean to say that it is depressing to see three individu-
as: A polite act or expression. Furthermore, humility is what he thought about numer- als, all of whom are widely
defined as: The quality or state of being humble. Both ous tennis referees. His great known and respected, to be
expressions are easy enough to understand, but do Ameri- skill coupled with his volatile acting so childish.
cans really know the true meaning of being humble these
days?
temper made him a competitor
to watch. A more recent ex- “When do we draw The rest of the world is
surely laughing at the impo-
In media-driven American society, everyone wants
their two minutes of fame. People will do anything for a
buck or a laugh. The question is: Have people gone too far
ample is ex-Mariner’s skipper
Lou Piniella often unpredict- the line as citizens lite brutes that make up the
American population. How
able mood swings. As many can we attempt to be a leader
to get their point across? And when do we draw the line as
citizens and viewers that enough trash talk is enough?
know, Sweet Lou was famous
for passionately arguing with
and viewers that and world power if we can-
not even hold our tongues?
The depressing thing about this entire situation is that
Americans love to be mean. From an early age, children
various baseball umpires and
kicking the bases to prove his
enough trash talk To combat this epidemic of
arrogance I have devised a
are cruel on the playground, teens gossip behind friends’
backs, and even adults will put others down to make them-
point. For many Americans,
including myself, this was in- is enough?” simple solution. That is, if
any time you are upset or
selves look superior. For heavens sake, Hollywood even teresting to watch, but the fact unhappy with your current
released a movie on girls being malicious to each other. remains: Any sports player or situation, just step back for a
Enter the aptly named Mean Girls, which disgustingly coach with national attention second, breathe deeply a few
enough made millions at the box office. can cause an uproar on public television and it is the talk times, and try to respond in a courteous manner. It is not
Even worse still is the fact that the next generation of of the nation for days on end. It is almost like we are re- one of the hardest things to do, but evidently some Ameri-
Americans are being brought up watching similar films warding people for being negative and off-putting. Hordes cans have forgotten a skill that is prevalent in most kinder-
that have just as horrible of a message. I am not rant- of Americans gobble up the smut that media-attention garten classrooms. If it is easy enough for a five year-old
ing about how recent television and media is destroying whores put out to gain recognition. to do, maybe Kanye will think twice next time.
America’s values, but on the contrary, I am implying that
10 Feature
The Falcon Flyer
Things you alw
know about y
(But were af

JenniferMazukelli
hanging out with
highschool pals.

Scott Simmons battles

Storm Troopers while on
vacation.

Teachers are people too.

They stand at the helm of the classroom every day. Their
but what do students really know about their teachers? Tak
cator like Russ Ballard. Yes, he lords over his class wit
millimeters of his glasses’ lenses stand between studen
would you dare to imagine that he is also a skilled qui
has held down more jobs than the IRS can follow, fro
forest fires, fixing aquariums to being a policeman.
Kentlake staffers form a diverse group. Some, lik
Landis are experienced world travelers. Some have
nifer Mazukelli’s hamster named Chiquita Pink. Ja
pet bull snakes would probably eat little Chiquita. N
Matthew Sturtevant has sung in Carnegie Hall.
Get to know your teachers, not just for being gre
aweome people.
Intrepid David Moore
stradles a pachyderm.
ways wanted to
your teachers
Feature
Match the
11
fraid to ask) staffers’ names.
Odd Jobs (Everyone has to start some-
where) Wienker
Police Officer Whitlock
Forest ranger Rychlik
Newspaper Reporter
Buechler
Arts and Crafts
Greg Kaas rocks the Avid quilter since 5th grade Wienker
knee socks mommy Handmade 2 wedding dresses Cleary
picked out. Dream Jobs (that make real money) Whitlock
Secretary of the Interior
Burns-Peterson
Professional Synchronized Swimmer
Professional Football Player Turner
Law Enforcement Fluke
Whale Naturalist Duggan
Starstruck Crushes
Mcleod
Tom Cruise
Rick Schroder Finley
Antonio Bandaras Duggan
Jackie Chan Kaas
faces and voices are familiar, Allyssa Milano
Rick
ke a feared and revered edu- Doris Day
World-weary Travelers Williams
th an iron fist, and only mere Gleason
St. Peter’s Basilica, Vatican City
nts and his deadly glare. But Bora Bora, Tahiti Kelsch
ilter? Or that Edward Duggan Backpacking through Europe
om milking cows to fighting Clayton
Kauai, Hawaii
First Hotrods (or clunkers) Landis
ke David Moore and Janae Chevrolet Veretta Seaman
e interesting pets, such as Jen- 1975 Toyota Celica Chance
Rambler
ake McKinzie’s world record Kinch
1949 Plymouth
Not just good with numbers, Vintage Style (available now at Goodwill) Imbruglio
Preppy Kaas
eat instructors, but crazy Hippie Landis
Catholic Uniform
Williams
Work-Out Clothes
Jeans and a Tee Rychlik
Rockin’ 80s Beuchler
12 StudentLife
The Falcon Flyer

All about the drama

Jason Hirschey
Staff Repoter

It takes guts to get on a stage and perform, and Allison Combs definitely has
guts. A senior, Combs enjoys singing and acting, and is dedicated to her goal of
becoming an actress. “I’d like to make a living. Short term, get into a school for
it,” said Combs.
At a young age, Combs dreamed of becoming an archeologist. That dream
ended in the fourth grade, “I just said never mind,” said Combs. Then something
new sparked her interest. “My sister went to a theater camp and we would go see
her performances. I watched them do it and I liked the sound of the music,” said
Combs.
Nobody should underestimate how difficult performing is. “I wasn’t in
the first two shows when I was in ninth grade, I didn’t make it. I thought I should
give up,” said Combs.
Thankfully, Combs persevered. “Arsenic was my first show and that was only
hard because I had no idea what I was doing. I just jumped in and figured I knew
what I was doing,” said Combs, “Noises Off [was my hardest show] because to get
everything together smoothly, was almost impossible.” Combs may be remem-
bered as playing Dotty in last year’s performance of Noises Off.
Not only is performing difficult, it is also time-consuming, but Combs
always finds the time. “Sometimes you get really into it [and] you don’t get a lot
of sleep because of rehearsals. But it’s something you have to do. Everybody’s
really supportive,” said Combs.
In addition to drama, Combs is devoted to the arts. “I’m in a couple of choirs. I’m
in an extracurricular choir called Rainer Youth Corral. I’m also in school choir.
Last year, [school] choir sang in Carnegie Hall which was the most amazing thing
ever,” said Combs, “I’m a second alto, which is lower than regular altos. I don’t
usually sing the melody, I’m singing underneath,” said Combs. She also plays the
flute in band.
Combs’ quest to become a professional actress is a promising one full of
potential. When the stress bears down, Combs can always turn to her idols. “I
have a lot of actors I look up to I guess, but my mom and my sister are my biggest
influences. As an actor [and musician], your biggest obstacle is yourself,” said
Combs. Photo by Jason Hirschey

The truth behind school lunches

Kelsey Bolton
calories. However, there are lunch choices that are a health-
ier. Instead of ordering pizza or a sub, try a bean bur-
On the school website it says, “School meals in
Staff Reporter Washington have changed a lot over the years. Chil- rito, hamburger, or salad without the dressing. The
dren today get more variety. More nutritious foods bean burrito is available everyday and only has 10
Every day at school numerous students line up to they enjoy, like salads, tacos and pizza. And, increas- grams of fat plus 19 grams of protein. The hamburger
order lunch. Over the past few years, the school food ingly, less fat, sodium, and sugar.” If the fat, so- has 18.7 grams of fat, 632 milligrams of sodium, and
has gone through many changes. To some students dium, and sugar content are becoming increasingly 26.1 grams of protein. The salads are good options if
is seems like the school food is getting smaller and smaller, then why does the sodium content of some not eaten with dressing. Most of the fat and sodium
the rise in the price has been no- food items seem so high? The rec- in the salads comes from the dressing. although prog-
ticed as well. Senior Kevin Beason ommended sodium intake per day ress has been made in making school lunch healthier,
said, “I can’t believe we’re paying is about 2,400 milligrams. Many there is still a long way to go.
this much for this s**t.” The taste of the food items contain around
of the food doesn’t make this any “It’s Delicious when you’re one-half of that. In addition, the fat
better. “It’s delicious when you’re content is higher than it probably
starving,” said Beason. Senior Chris
starving”
should be and the sugar content is
Engelbrecht said, “The only things - Kevin Beason not even listed on the website.
that are worth it are the subs.” A majority of the food items on
The school food may not be the the menu that are meals have a
most appetizing, but is it healthy? According to the fat content that ranges from around 20 to 30 grams.
school website the BBQ rib with twisty fries is 658 Although not all the food items have that much fat.
calories and contains 1,924 milligrams of sodium. Some contain more than 30 grams where as others
That is not including anything else that can be eaten contain less than 20 grams. What makes these num-
with it such as milk or fruit. Although the calories bers appear so high is the fact that each person should
and sodium content are high, it does contain 26.62 consume no more then about 66 grams of fat a day.
grams of protein. Shockingly enough, that is not the Most of the foods the student body actually buys con-
meal with the highest amount of calories. The deli tain about one-third to one-half the daily fat intake.
sandwich number 2, which contains tuna, has 670 That is a lot of fat to be consumed in just one meal. Photo by billyblurbs.com
 StudentLife
The Falcon Flyer 13
How to survive Homecoming
Ah, what to do when the romance gets started! Homecoming is rapidly approaching and love is abundant in the
air. Today we shall go on a perilous journey deep within the mysterious recesses of the feminine and masculine
minds. Guys, read the left to know what your dates are thinkng and girls read the right.

Cynthiann Hecklesmiller Craig Hefner

Co Editor-in-Cheif Staff Reporter

10/8
You casually flip through the Falcon Flyer and see this article. Wait? Is
it almost Homecoming? Oh &#%*! You remember you were meaning to ask
that girl in English to go with you. After school, you go to the dollar store and
purchase the following items: A dozen fake daisies, two cans of silly string, car
window paint, a tiara and 40 yellow balloons. All evening you sit in your room
trying to concoct a creative way to ask her to the dance. At 2 AM you straggle
to your bed with and only a frail wisp of a plan.
10/9
Wake up in a cold sweat. With your best friend, build an elaborate set-up by
her car during 1st Lunch, but by the time you get to fifth period, you may decide
to just go for it. No flowers, no balloons. You ask and she says yes! Get to her
car before she does to clean up your mess.
10/11
Purchase tickets and hand them over to your date. Discuss plans with her.
Here, discuss means “listen,” you have zero say in who goes in your group. It is
a little late to order a rental tux, but if you can procure a suit or tuxedo, be sure
it coordinates with her dress. She probably bought a dress last June, and may
have even bought you a tie.
10/16
Call your date and ask her for the final plans. You may have to repeat this
step or ask to be given updates, as the plans will probably change.
10/17
Shower, get dressed, and go pick up your lady. Do not be alarmed that
she is not ready, she wants to look perfect, and has been preparing for the
past 6 months. This allows time for her father to come talk to you. Ignore the
revolver he has been cleaning at the kitchen table: it is not loaded. Keep the
subject matter to the weather, your school’s athletic team, and skiing. Do not
discuss professional sports unless you are certain you will not offend his favor-
ite team. When your date descends the stairs, feel free to ogle. She is,
after all, delectably gorgeous. After slipping on the corsage, brace yourself. It is
her turn to pin the boutonnière. Hold still, do not scream. Any blood drawn is
just part of the experience.
Now it is time to party. Forget all the neves and just have an unforgettable
night.
10/18
Get home from the dance, absolutely exhausted and happy. This early hour
is not weird for you. What is weird is that you are not playing Halo right now.
10/8
You’ve been waiting for weeks, months, perhaps your whole life for this
moment and it isn’t happening. Why won’t this guy come and ask me to home-
coming already?! Your friends, who know every aspect of your life, keep reas-
suring you that he is crazy for you, but it’s getting rather late, the dance is only
nine days away! You’ve already bought that gorgeous dress of your dreams
forever ago, and are done practicing your “surprised” face on being asked in
the mirror. Well, you tell yourself if he doesn’t ask me soon he’s DEAD!
10/9
HE ASKED! Mind you it wasn’t the most romantic event of the century but
it still swept you off your feet. Of course you said yes! You dart faster than Paul
Revere to all your girlfriends whom you inform of the joyous moment. You may
wonder why he is removing an odd assembly of items out of your car… is that
silly string? However, you could care less, it’s time to plan. Rules of planning,
don’t let him get a word in, he’s a guy remember? I mean, who knows where
or what you might end up eating if he gets choice of restaurant! Make SURE to
remind him to get the tickets, and pound into his puny insignificant mind what
color of tie to wear so you can match and be the hottest couple on the dance
floor.
10/11
Ok, so he remembered to buy tickets without violence, so far so good. In-
form him of “The Plan” Make sure he understands when to pick you up, when
reservations are, so on and so forth. If ANYTHING changes contact him im-
mediately, as men generally panic at last minute changes.
10/17
You wake up at the crack of dawn, for this is “clearly” the most important
day ever. Shower and decide what needs to be done first. Hair, makeup, last
minute gossiping, perfume, unloading Dad’s gun, deodorant… many hours
later you are finally ready.
When everything is to perfection, and you feel the urge to save your date
from Dad’s ruthless interrogation, make your entrance. If your date is gawking
at you like a dying goldfish then know that in his mind you are the most beauti-
ful woman in the world. In the midst of all the excitement, attempt not to gore
your date with the boutonnière. Now head out and have the night of your life.
10/18
Late that night your date walks you to the door and gracefully takes his leave.
Of course you’re exhausted yet adrenaline pumps through you keeping you in a
blissful state as you share with your parents the joys of a most perfect night.

Carnivale comes to Kentlake
Kierra Elfalan
Staff Reporter
Homecoming will be held in the commons on Sat-
urday Oct. 17 from 8:30 pm to 11:30 pm. The dance
will be held after the Homecoming Football Game.
Attendance is expected to be huge. For those who
have not got a date, find one and pick them up at
eight. Still can’t find a date? Go with some friends, a
lot of people do it. Do not miss the chance to go. The
school is lucky that Homecoming is being held at all.
Due to the Kent School District Strike Home-
coming was postponed, but leadership students did
all they could to make sure Homecoming was still
possible. Dates were difficult to agree on, however,
compromises were made, and thanks to students in
leadership, an amazing homecoming night is still to
come. cherished memories. Homecoming memories are al-
The homecoming theme will be carnival and the ways made and they get better and better each year
music selection is expected to be even better than last because Homecoming seems to get better. Junior
Homecoming. For all freshmen out here, this is the Trimeka Heller’s favorite memory of last Homecom-
night of all nights. The first high school dance expe- ing was “going with all [her] friends and just having
rience ever. It is bound to be a good one filled with a good time.”
excitement and shared with friends. Even if people are without dates, they can just go
Fresh- m e n and have a good time, after all, that is what Home-
have a lot “It’s going to be a to ben- coming is all about. Those not going to Homecom-
efit from night to remember” home- ing may want to rethink their decision. According to
coming.
- Jessica Amoth The best sophomore Jessica Amoth “it’s going to be a night to
part is, as Mad- remember.”
elayne Varela As well as going to Homecoming, students should
said, “Getting to know people and getting involved.” also go to Falcon Night and the Homecoming foot-
It is important to make friends, and Homecoming is ball game, in order to enjoy the full Homecoming
a perfect opportunity. experience. it will be fun to go out with friends and
As people get older they often look back on their fellow students and attend what promises to be an
lives, and for some, high school contains their most awesome, unforgettable night.
14 StudentLife
The Falcon Flyer

Spanish teacher joins staff

Steven Weier
Staff Reporter
On the first day of school, freshmen were not the
only ones getting lost in the halls. The school also re-
ceived a number of new staff members. Among them
is new Spanish teacher, Joan Doty. She was trans-
ferred from Kentwood because they had too many
teachers.
Doty teaches first and second year Spanish, and
is also fluent in French. She started learning French
in seventh grade, and then Spanish in eighth. “I just
really like languages,” she said.
Her studies continued throughout high school.
Doty received her BA from the University of Utah.
She also studied abroad in France for a quarter. “The
best way to learn a language is to go to the country.
You just learn it so fast when you’re using it everyday”
she said. Doty also added that she learned as much in
that quarter as in three years of school.
After graduating from the University of Wash-
ington, she worked as a substitute teacher in Seattle.
Prior to teaching at Kentwood, Doty taught at Kent
Meridian. She also taught French and Spanish in
Utah.
Although only the beginning of school, Doty seemed
happy with her first year students. She said that they
were “doing really well,” and described them as “very
attentive.” One challenge that she faces with her sec-
ond year students is “bringing everybody to the same
place.” This is due to the fact that her classes are
comprised of pupils from a variety of Spanish teach-
ers, all of which have different teaching styles.
The only other difficulty that Doty faces is a long
commute. She hopes to help her students become
more comfortable speaking Spanish and also looks
forward to getting to know the school better.

Adjusting to life in Washington

Sarah Cubine
Staff Reporter
Garman Leua first arrived in the United States
from New Zealand last March. She and her family
moved to Washington State to visit her father’s old-
est brother who had cancer.
Rather than being nervous about coming to live in
a foreign country, Leua was mostly surprised by the
culture and lifestyle here in Washington. She noticed
a stark contrast between the people who live here and
those from her hometown. One of the first things that
Leua observed was the fact that drivers here sit on
the left side of the car rather than the right. She also
noted a difference in the roads. “You have really big
roads here,” she said.
Leua came just in time to experience the enor-
mous heat wave that occurred over summer vaca-
tion. In New Zealand the climate is generally mild
and temperate. “It’s much hotter here,” said Leua.
Another thing that became apparent to Leua was the
differences in grammar and speech. She realized that
many words here are spelled and pronounced differ-
ently.
School in New Zealand is not all that different,
but there are certain things that are not the same. “I
used to start at 8:45 in the morning instead of 7:30,”
said Leua. Another difference is that students in New
Zealand are required to wear uniforms, each school
having its own.
Back at home Leua’s family carries many traditions
that are unique to her country and culture. “At home
we have different food, dances, and things like that,”
said Leua. In her spare time Leua enjoyed going out
with friends and attending sporting events; usually
rugby games, which is an extremely popular sport in
New Zealand. When rugby teams come to town for a
match it’s a big deal.
Moving to a new country can be a difficult expe-
rience, but it can also be extremely rewarding. New
countries provide unforgettable experiences and the
opportunity to meet new friends. Few people get to
say that they have lived in two different countries and
experienced two different cultures. For Leua, this is
something she will definitely never forget.

Photo by Sarah Cubine

Hunger Games sequel a riveting installment
Arts&Entertainment
The Falcon Flyer 15
Katniss Everdeen who, along with fellow District 12 Not only is the concept of the book
Yasmin Abubakar competitor, Peeta Mellark, won the Hunger interesting, but Collins writing
Student Life Editor Games. After ending up the last two brings the story to an entirely new
standing and neither one level. Covering everything from
I am not the kind of person who sits around thinking wanting to kill the other, malicious presidents to starving
about dying, but occasionally I have wondered what Katniss and Peeta decided runaways, Catching Fire never
would happen if I were forced to fight someone to the to kill themselves by eating felt like a cliché. Even though
death. That situation would be frightening enough, poison berries. However, Collins covers well known
but one thing I have not thought about is having to kill before they were able to eat issues like teen love triangles,
23 other people in order to survive. And I definitely the berries, the man in charge she puts a refreshing twist on
have not thought about living in a country where of the Hunger Games, afraid everything.
every year 24 children, ages 12 to 18, are forced to of not having a winner, chose With Catching Fire,
compete in a deadly tournament, all the while being to make them both champions. Collins expertly continues
televised for the entire country. This is exactly what Now the Capital is angry because an intricate story
Suzanne Collins writes about in her Hunger Games Katniss and Peeta rebelled and that is thrilling and
Trilogy, continuing the story with the second book, they will stop at nothing to get unpredictable. Many
Catching Fire. their revenge. Catching Fire times I found myself
Collins’ trilogy is set in Panem, a country that lies follows Katniss as she tries to make reading late into the
in the ruins of what was once North America. Panem things right. night, driven by the
is divided into twelve Districts with one Capital that Right from the start I knew that need to know what was
controls everything. There used to be a thirteenth the first book of the Hunger Games going to happen next.
District which was destroyed for rebelling. Every year Trilogy would become one of my all It sounds corny, but
since then, in order to keep the people under control time favorites; I had never read anything o n . that’s the truth. Now
a z
and remind them of its power, the Capital holds the like it. The idea of children being forced o t o by am that I have finished
Hunger Games, an event where a boy and girl from Ph
to kill each other, though repulsively the book, all I can do
each District are put into an arena where they must barbaric, was fascinating to me. I couldn’t is wait impatiently for the third
kill each other in order to survive. The last person wait for Catching Fire to be published. and final installment, which I’m sure will
standing wins food and money for their district. When it finally came out I was ecstatic be fantastic.
Catching Fire continues the story of District 12’s and when I read it, I wasn’t disappointed.

Tarantino tackles World War II Sushi surprise Among some of the more fascinating Basterds McKenna Herron
Jerel Henderson there are Donny Donowitz (Eli Roth) and Hugo Staff Reporter
Staff Reporter Stiglitz (Til Schweiger). The former is known simply
as “The Bear Jew” because of his twisted mentality Trapper’s Sushi is a new restaurant hidden in
I’d be pressed to find a more exciting way to begin to maul his Nazi victims with a wooden baseball bat. the corner of the Kohls’ parking lot in Covington.
a historical war film than with the tagline “Once upon This makes for an especially graphic death scene for They specialize in a variety family-made sushi rolls
a time in Nazi-occupied France...” a particular Nazi captain. Stiglitz on the other hand and provide customers with a lively atmosphere
With the recent release of Inglourious Basterds hope is a quiet man that the Basterds rescue from jail to and friendly service. The restaurant is a small
has been given to hordes of movie-goers everywhere join their ranks. He is an expert at espionage and chain that Trapper O’Keefe and his three brothers
that the cinema is still a magical place full of wonder garroting his enemies. created in places such as Reno, Nev., as well as the
and amusement. A place where someone can be fully Both Eli Roth and Til Schweiger do a great job in more common Bonney Lake and Auburn.
engrossed in the plot of a film for over two hours and their respective roles, showing no remorse for their I was welcomed by warm smiles and light
where the acting is believable and the effects superb. bloodied opponents. Likewise, Brad Pitt is as funny conversation. The staff is very easy to talk to, and
Tarantino has managed this feat time and time as ever with his performance as Lt. Aldo Raine. The if something on the menu is unclear, they are more
again, by creating some of the real star of the show, however, is then willing to deal with repetitive questions or
most interesting films in the Christoph Waltz in his role as Hans give their own, honest opinion. The first meal on
last decade and his newest Landa. Waltz delivers the routine the menu was the spicy crab mountain roll. This
endeavor fails to disappoint. of a lifetime as he travels from oversized meal consisted of shrimp, tuna, salmon,
However, those expecting the scene to scene, hunting Jews and yellowtail, spicy crab tobiko and green onions. I
next Pulp Fiction or even a non- the Basterds alike. He steals the have never experienced a taste so perfected when
fictitious history film should be attention from all other characters it comes to sushi. Nothing was awkward (which is
forewarned – this is not your every time he pops into a scene. often common when eating fish) and all of the extra
average war movie. If anyone deserves an Oscar for ingredients were able to compliment the flavors.
In true Tarantino style, the film, it is surely Waltz. If you This was followed with the deep-fried Bonney Lake
the movie is divided into five thought Heath Ledger as the Joker and Trapper Roll, which both lived up to the taste
chapters in which viewers are Photo by imdb.com
Laurent prepares for a climactic showdown. was the greatest thing in film, of the first one.
only shown bits and pieces of you might want to reassess your The menu consists of appetizers, soups and
the story at a time. For instance, opinion after witnessing Waltz as Landa. salads, nigiri, hand rolls, long rolls, different types
the first scene opens with the witty Col. Hans Landa With such a complete story and interesting of teriyaki, and deserts. They also provide an all-
(Christoph Waltz) traveling to the LaPadite residence dialogue, Inglourious Basterds is definitely the best you-can-eat lunch of hand rolls, long rolls, and
to hunt for possible Jewish refugees. Not but a few movie I have seen this year. If Nazi Germany, blood nigiri for just $17.50, as compared to one regular
minutes later, Lt. Aldo Raine (Brad Pitt) introduces and gore, and profanity is too much for you to handle, long roll that averages around $10. Careful, their
his “Basterdly” crew and tells of their plight to kill this might not be the movie for you. Conversely, if main rule with this special is that you eat everything
numerous Nazis. From then on, the plot takes a you are a fan of Tarantino films or even if you want you order except for half of one roll… or else you
multitude of twists and turns to keep the viewer to see an exquisite “historical fantasy,” The Basterds have to pay for each dish individually. The record
interested. A cinema where a new Nazi movie will be will surely deliver you to the promised land, and kill held for most rolls eaten is fourteen- as compared
premiered is central to keep the plot flowing, while plenty of “Nat-zis” along the way. to us who could barely finish two.
the Basterds keep doing what they do best, that is, /5 Trapper’s Sushi is an excellent place for a good
“Killin Nat-zis.” laugh and a full stomach.
16 Arts&Entertainment
The Falcon Flyer
Aniston flick suffers from romance clichés
maverick florist who just so happens to the emotional acting of John Carroll
developing the element of love through
Daniel Tadeo supply the flowers for the hotel Burke’s a string of comedic scenes, such as Lynch (Gran Torino), who plays
Staff Reporter attending. when Aniston pretends to act like a seminar-attendee Walter, a grieving
Aniston’s and Eckhart’s characters mute (someone who can not speak) construction worker, and the comedic
Nothing can prepare somebody for meet when Burke bumps (how original) when Burke tries to ask her out. performance of Dan Fogler.
the emotional ride they go through into the attractive Eloise Chandler As we approach the halfway point, However, Love Happens is a big
after watching an incredibly engaging in the hotel. The writers choose to the love story seems to fade away letdown, developing into one of those
movie that is so touching, it connects keep this scene PG-13, I honestly was from the storyline, which is a major movies that fall between, “Alright
to your heart, to your very soul. If you surprised when they didn’t use any of disappointment and the film’s centralmovie,” and “Is this movie over yet”?
are into a movie like that, then you the rooms that surrounded them, and The film drags on longer than necessary
theme of coping with grief takes over.
probably should not exert any effort to I praise them for that. However, sparks Despite his potential to become the and with this cast of actors; it was
watch Love Happens.  do not fly until about halfway through underachieving.
next Dr. Phil, Burke has not confronted
This movie is the epitome of chick- the movie, and any plausible love his own pain, deeming the whole book a I was not expecting the onscreen
flicks, a romantic drama co-written love to reach the caliber of
by Brandon Camp and Mike a movie like the Titanic,
Thompson that is both corny and but what was presented
sweet. The film features perhaps was quite pitiful. Aniston
the lamest and most uncreative and Eckhart did their
title of the year, and marks Camp’s best, but it just did not
directing debut, and unfortunately seem natural; after all,
for him, it shows. Aniston is not doing so
With an all-star cast of hot in this subject herself
Jennifer Aniston (Friends), Aaron in her own life. The whole
Eckhart (The Dark Knight), and element of love seemed to
Dan Fogler (Balls of Fury), it be second nature in this
appeared, at least on paper, that film, appearing just for
the movie would have a chance at the purpose of attracting
being decent, maybe even good. romance-lovers like myself,
Numerous questions arose after not only adding to this
watching the misleading trailer onslaught of negativity,
which marketed the film as a love but also disappointing all
story, rather than a film dealing movie-goers who wanted
with personal grief. For one, would to watch a potentially great
Aniston have another heartfelt, love story.
tear-jerking performance as she Love Happens is so
had in “Marley and Me”? Will predictable that you can
Eckhart and Aniston be able figure out the whole movie
to connect together? But more after the first 15 minutes
importantly, how great does without much effort,
Seattle look on film? plaguing it with virtually
The movie focuses on Dr. Burke photo by imdb.com no “re watch-ability.” If
Ryan (Eckhart), a best-selling self- you are going to watch a
help guru who, after the death of Aaron Eckhart and Jennifer Aniston share an intimate moment in Love Happens. movie with someone who
his wife, was inspired to write the connections displayed to establish the lie and definitely not “a-okay.” Eckhart has just lost a loved one, or want a
creatively titled book, “A-Okay!” and chemistry between the two are simply does an amazing job conveying the movie with a “nice” story, this movie is
holds seminars to help others cope nonexistent. Do not get me wrong, pain his character feels; on the other a safe pick. Its end does bring some to
with their grief. Lane (Dan Fogler), they look great together on film, but hand, Aniston’s role as the comforter the brink of tears, if not full-out crying.
Burke’s agent and friend, schedules Camp and Thompson do a terrible job seems out of place, and her role even Unfortunately, I would probably wait
the sold-out seminar in Seattle, where constructing a believable story. This disappears until the resurrection of the for this to hit the shelves--it’s not worth
he would meet the love interest of problem originated with their first “love story” at the end of the movie. taking time out to go and see in the
the film, Eloise Chandler (Aniston), a mistake of taking the easy way out and The film had its moments, including theater. /5

Fray possesses questionable musical prowess

Mike Lydon
A&E Editor
As a contemporary alternative band, The Fray is in a sense revolutionary; it
transforms musical blandness into an art form, and presents music so passive
and harmless that you almost want to vomit.
In fact, the entire adult music market seems to be so preoccupied with
creating ballads that would not seem out of place furnishing a bachelor yuppie’s
vinyl collection, or soothing a mob of sleep-deprived bureaucrats in an office
building elevator, that innovation has become something of a profitless vice.
They’re petrified of being disliked, and as a result the songs being churned out of
American labels have acquired such a formality that it begs for somebody to take
the formula and just throw a brick at it…just for a change of pace.
Of course, The Fray is in no danger of leaving the general conciousness any time
soon, even by the hand of the most experienced exorcist. If their 2006 single “How
to Save a Life” failed to possess the ears of the music-listening demographic, then
surely the lingering effects of last year’s piano-rock hit “You Found Me” picked up
the slack. Indeed, that track so frequented the ventages of the public radio that to
this day I flinch whenever I consider toggling through stations, for fear that the
all-too familiar melody will come clashing out of unsuspecting speakers.
These are songs that are memorable because they are made to be—they are
single-serving designer hits, and they have to be popular, even if people need to
be forced into submission.
And that is the nature that just about sums up everything that is wrong with The
Fray: they’re a stylish band to be sure—their image is top notch—but what they
are lacking is the ambition to fulfill any sort of musical thesis, and instead they
settle for superficial appeal. Ultimately, they are ear candy.
However, among the most positive of the band’s characteristics is their superb
showmanship. Recently, as The Fray embarked on their nation-wide tour, Seattle
was fortunate enough to play host to one of their venues, the Paramount Theater,
and I was fortunate enough to attend. Though the quality of their music at the
show does not come immediately into recollection, what was memorable was
the fantastic onslaught of relentless flashes, the audacity of which succeeded
in drawing emphasis away from the concert at hand. My opinion of The Fray’s
musical prowess hasn’t yet shifted, but it did make me greatly appreciate their
lighting technicians. I can’t wait to hear them on the radio.
 Arts&Entertainment
Diaries provides hope for vampire genre
The Vampire Diaries is loosely based
Kayla Maletich off of the novel series by L.J. Smith
Business Manager and revolves around Elena Gilbert,
a disheartened teenager
As someone who was disappointed of Mystic Falls,
with what Twilight did for the vampire Virginia, whose
genre, I greatly anticipated the premiere parents were
of The Vampire Diaries; I saw it as a killed in a car
chance for redemption. Though the accident just four
bar was set low, executive producer months ago.
Kevin Williamson, who also created Though she
hits like Scream and Dawson’s Creek, had once been
surpassed all my expectations. His a popular,
impressive resume was definitely an b u b b l y
accurate foreshadowing to what should cheerleader,
be expected from The Vampire Diaries. E l e n a
Thus far, the show has been dark, edgy, now finds
basically everything Twilight should herself
have been, but wasn’t. detached
phot
Whereas Twilight tried to cram a from both friends
vampire story into the teen genre, and family, straining to hide
this show does just the opposite. The her grief. As the school year starts, she
vampire mythology is not upstaged is instantly attracted to a new student:
by the dramatic plot, nor does the the enigmatic Stefan Salvatore, who is,
subject of vampirism overshadow unbeknownst to Elena, a centuries-old
the human actors. Rather, each vampire.
element compliments the other, which Nina Dobrev plays Elena and her
just makes the show all the more acting has been exceptionally solid.
enjoyable. Dobrev is able to portray Elena’s sorrow,
The Falcon Flyer
17
minus the irksome whining of Kristen CW, with the teenage demographic
Stewart, in a way that the audience can always in mind. They are glamorous,
sympathize and relate to. Paul Wesley but not above being relatable.
as Stefan is simply irresistible. He is Being a Williamson production,
clearly more charming than Twilight’s viewers can be certain that the show
greasy Robert Pattinson, and it’s will be filled with endlessly snappy
plausible to see how girls dialogue, mixed in with popular culture
would fall for his references
character. I was pleasantly surprised by how
Wesley is advanced the special effects were. It’s
able to brood impossible to create a vampire show
effortlessly without it being a tad cheesy, but the
in a way that producers did a commendable job. And
only a true teen thank God the vampires did not sparkle
heartthrob can. in the sun.
Stefan’s older However, The Vampire Diaries is
brother Damon, far from perfect. It lacks the humor
another vampire of Buffy the Vampire Slayer, the
played by Ian class of True Blood, and I am sure the
o by
wikip Somerhalder, has melodramatic love triangle between
edia.
a devilish charm Jeremy, Tyler, and Vickie will get old
that despite his fast. There was also an annoying use of
m a l e v o l e n t overlaping voice-overs as the two main
demeanor, makes him impossible not characters write in their respective
to love. The two brothers are at war for journals. Hopefully this device won’t
Elena’s heart, and this battle between be overused in the future.
good and evil puts everyone’s life in Nonetheless, it definitely has potential
jeopardy. and is without a doubt the must watch
The actors are perfectly cast for the show of the season.

Soderberg, Damon return in top comedic form ‘90s, Mark Whitacre (Matt Damon) works with the
Kieth Bolender FBI to bring down an alleged price-fixing conspiracy
Staff Reporter with corporate giant Archer Daniels Midland (ADM),
a very large agricultural business that produces
It seems like Steven Soderbergh is trying to ride the lysine, an essential amino acid. Unknown to the FBI,
wave of success from his Oceans series in this latest their “Informant!” has dirty hands himself and has
film, The Informant! It is a bright and perky film, become a little…let us say…unhinged. In his nutty,
underlined an upbeat and colorful score by composer backward world he’s “Secret Agent 0014, ‘cause I’m
Marvin Hamlisch. This gives the impression that it is twice as smart as 007.” Led by Special Agent Brian
meant to feel like a 70’s game show that just…will… Shepard (Scott Bakula), the bureau sees Whitacre as
not…stop. their ace in the hole to bring down ADM. It kind of
The Informant!- even the title is full of pep and feels like you are watching a parody of The Insider
just an overall jolly good time. Starting in the early and A Beautiful Mind all at the same time.
However, I
definitely would
not say that
Whitacre’s mind
is a beautiful
thing at all;
it’s really quite
frightening. Matt
Damon gives
voice to his own
inner conscience,
and you hear
the random and
abstract thoughts
going through
Whitacre’s
bipolar, almost
schizophrenic
mind. A typical
ramble: “Polar
bears cover their
noses when they
hunt for seals.
How do they
photo by imdb.com know their noses
are black? Do
Matt Damon plays double agent Mark Whitacre in Steven Soderberg’s The Informant! they see their
reflection in the water? Do they just assume their
noses are black by looking at other bears? That seems
like a lot of thinking for a bear.” All of this is going on
in his head while he’s supposed to be taking in vital
information from two FBI agents. Later in the movie
he is wearing a wire for corporate meetings when he
feels the urge to narrate everything that he does on
the tapes. Randomness does have its place and Matt
Damon makes it work very well.
Whitacre spends a lot of time trying to bring
down the heads of ADM because he secretly wants
to be the CEO of the company. He spends so much
time lying to the FBI, his lawyers, and to the press
that everything he says to everyone is a different lie.
His lawyers see what he said in the paper and can’t
believe they work for someone with that level of sheer
stupidity. Whitacre spends much of the movie telling
that his parents died in a car crash when he was little
and that he was adopted by a rich amusement park
owner. Later, his parents are contacted by a reporter,
and you can guess what happens after that.
This movie is so entertaining and filled with energy,
and you can tell that the filmmakers had even more
fun making it. The only fallacy the movie commits is
the blandness of the settings--too many scenes take
place in boring business meetings, talking about
boring things, with boring people wearing boring
suits, in excruciatingly boring rooms.
Eventually the FBI arrests everybody and there
are indictments of the company, all of which takes
place in a corny ‘80s montage. The movie never
really spells it out for you but, there is definitely a
moral to the story...DO NOT LIE. Manic-depressive
self-regard is what got Mark Whitacre, ADM, Bernie
Madoff , AIG, and the Lehman brothers into trouble,
and what put our entire economy into the toilet. This
movie spends so much time laughing at itself that it
just does not care what the audience thinks. I guess it
is true; the joke is on us.
/5
18 Sports
The Falcon Flyer
Running requirements unexpectedly difficult
Jacob Langholz
Staff Reporter
From one of man’s most primitive behaviors, de-
veloped and manipulated over time, sprouts the ad-
mirable feat of endurance known as cross-country
running. The strength of the athletes involved in this
challenging sport is commonly overlooked by those
who do not understand the skill set required.
Some would assume that there is not much to it
except running, but it requires a mental strength and
willpower that most people simply do not possess.
When asked to describe cross-country, senior cap-
tain Brian Oliphant said, “taxing, mentally and phys-
ically taxing, it takes a lot of focus just to keep going.
It’s unparalleled.”
Photo by Michelle Rogers
Whereas most other sports have a consistent play-
Jordan Jacobson, Terra McGinnis, and Sarah Robbins ing field, runners deal with every imaginable envi-
race off at the start of a cross country competition. ronmental variable, including weather, terrain, and
steeply graded hills. These variables must be adjust-
ed to so as to keep from being left in the dust.
When asked about the biggest challenge of the
sport, senior captain Erin Collins said, “Endurance
is most important, I’ve seen a girl collapse half way
through a race. This sport is definitely not for the
faint-hearted, especially as the duration and range
are unpredictable.”
As for the main competition, Oliphant said, “the
biggest challengers look like Gig Harbor and K.M.”
As for this season, Oliphant said, “I expect both
teams to go to districts, and a couple runners have a
good shot at State. Also the girls are really strong this
year, especially with [freshman] Terra McGinnis.”
Both Oliphant and Collins recognized McGinnis as
a top notch runner and expressed high expectations
for her in the coming seasons.
Though they have not had a large number of meets
with other schools, the girls’ team has already won
one meet against Auburn, and plan on continuing
this streak.

Soccer shines, new season shows promise

Laura Rayfield, Paige Engeland, and Callen Shelton.
McKenna Herron
The Falcons have conquered Thomas Jefferson, Kent Meridian, Auburn, Fed-
Staff Reporter
eral Way, and Kentridge. They faced disappointing losses against rivals Tahoma
on Sept. 24 and Kentwood on Sept. 29, but that has not stopped their determina-
With six wins, eight seniors, and a massive amount of team chemistry, the girls’ tion to improve.
varsity soccer is starting the season off strong. “We need to get better at heading the ball and dealing with frantic situations.
Leading the team are captains senior Frederike Dubeau and We’ve just got to take things one game at a time”, said Miccile.
junior Katherine Miccile. They have plans of directing their pro- Dubeau included that they need to work on a new formation
gram towards success. “We’ve scored more goals and better defense as well.
Miccile said, “When we became 4-0, we were really kind of so far this year than in The team tries to focus on team chemistry to unite the play-
shocked ‘cause it hasn’t happened in a long time, and we’ve the past two, and it’s only ers. Outside of practices they participate in team dinners, make
scored more goals so far this year than in the past two, and it’s shirts for big games, and, in the past, perform their infamous
only been four games.”
been four games” ‘team lock-in’, an activity where the entire varsity team spends
Why the big difference? Miccile listed a number of potential a night in the gym.
reasons. The level of competitiveness has increased, they’ve -Katherine Miccile Overall, the girls are excited to see where their season is
adapted to their second year with coach Kyle Jones, and the taking them. Dubeau said, “At the Tahoma game there were
team has no problem meshing. The team benefits from leader- more fans than I’ve seen in all my four years. Obviously they
ship demonstrated by the eight upper classmen, and along with that Dubeau and knew we’re getting better”. The school has done an excellent job supporting the
Miccile receive plenty of help from key players such as Kasey Dauenhauer, Kris- team so far and they hope to see that this continues. Miccile feels that this year is
tin Williams, Kyla D’Amico, Leanna McCord, Savannah Wood, Kayla Maletich, “memorable already, and it’s only been a few games...”

Growing golf team begins season re

22218 SE 272nd PL

A su Maple Valley, WA 98038

Erin Hunt
Staff Reporter
“There is a famous quote,” said golf coach Mark
Gaul, “that golf is 90% mental and 10% skill – so you
really need to have the right mindset. You can’t be a
mental midget!” Apparently this year the team is tee-
ing off with plenty of mental aptitude, with the boys
team in third and the girls team in fourth out of the
SPSL.
The golf team is the largest in the SPSL, consisting
of seventeen boys and fifteen girls. Especially notable
is the huge turnout of girls. Gaul said, “Most schools
don’t even have enough girls to make a team, while
we had to make cuts for the first time in Kentlake golf
history! It’s sad [to make cuts], but it was great to
have so many turn out.”
Senior Lindsey Douglas said, “We have so many
girls that not everyone gets to play.”
Come competition day, six players of each gender
are chosen to contend at varsity level. Each competes
individually and then the final scores are combined
ea ox
into two team scores. Currently the boys are 4-4 and Monday-Friday: 9-6
the girls are 4-4.
Despite the full team roster and limited playing
time, Douglas said, “Everyone is friends.”
r
T B
Saturday: 10-6
Sunday: 11-5
In addition, team chemistry has played an impor- Consignment Boutique
tant part in the thus far successful season. Senior Nick
Lodato said, “The chemistry between the upper and
New and used
lower classes is better than it’s ever been before.”
“The team jokes a lot,” said senior Karl Dubeau.
Does feeling like a team really matter in golf, a
game where scores are based on individual perfor-
womens, juniors, and
mance? Gaul believes it does, he said, “Having team
chemistry helps [players] to stay loose and have the
childrens clothing,
right mindset to play.”
Both coaches and players hold high expectations
toys and
for the rest of the season. Gaul said, “We’re going
to kick ass and take names! Also, we want to get as
accessories
many people through to the second day of districts,
Oct. 21 and 22, and go to state in the spring!”
Nick Lodato said, “I’m excited to see how we end Phone Number: (425)-433-8537
up at the end of the season – first or second would be E-Mail: atreasureboxconsignment@gmail.com
sweet.”

Tennis on the brink
Nicole Luce
Staff Reporter
Already the varsity boys’ tennis team is doing bet-
ter than last year, with a record of 2-5, putting them
in fourth place in the North SPSL.
Not only is the team placed in the North SPSL,
junior Kyle Thomas is currently in seventh place for
singles. Senior Jordan Amoth and freshman Shane
Wilson are in sixth place in the North SPSL for dou-
bles.
Coach Debbie Raghubeer said, “We are better this
year. We have really strong leadership. I feel our team
is united, so we are more deep.”
Senior captains Amoth and Taylor Welch hope
to improve this year. Amoth has been playing tennis
since freshman year, he said, “[I hope] to get better
and be more of a leader.”
Welch, who has been playing for six years, wants
to “make state.” To give him a bigger chance of going
to state, Raghubeer said, “The thing Taylor could do
is play against higher level players.”
Even though Trenton Jocz and Jordan Haynes, the
top players from last year, have graduated, the team
is still strong with the help of new key players such as
freshman twins Shane and Brandon Wilson. Sopho-
more Kyle Woo and seniors David Johnston, Chris
Engelbrecht, Talon Sisley and Thomas bring stability
to the team as returning players. “New freshman and
JV players have bettered our team. They can swing
between varsity and JV.” Raghubeer said.
Every team has an objective, the tennis team’s
objective is: “We want to get as many people to dis-
tricts as possible. Also, we’d like to break 500 – win
as much as you lose.” Raghubeer said.
To get ready for the possibility of districts, the
team is working on their skills. “During off season,
it’s more about skill building. During season, it’s
more about strategy during the matches and working
with partners. Tennis is one of those sports, the more
you hit the better you get.” Raghubeer said.
The Falcon Flyer
Sports
19
Talented running back revealed
LD: Want to go to playoffs and hopefully win a
Daniel Tadeo
Staff Reporter state title.
DT: How do you like our team?
Who is this new running back the announcer calls LD: I like them a lot, on and off the field. They
“Dukes?” A transfer student from Columbus, Geor- play hard and as the season is progressing, we play
gia, sophomore Latrelle Dukes has ignited the of- more as a team.
fense with a passion. Dukes’ speed and power makes DT: Who is your inspiration?
him a force to be reckoned with; many call him the LD: My dad because he used to be a football play-
greatest player seen in years, others simply call him er, until he messed-up his knee. He supports me and
a “beast.” Staff reporter Daniel Tadeo had a chance gives me a lot of advice. I’m continuing his dream.
to speak to the man behind the face-mask, and got to DT: Is there anything unique about you that you
know the real #22. would be willing to share?
Daniel Tadeo: How did you get started in foot- LD: I’m half black and half Filipino. And I also like
ball? Why running back? fried chicken and Vietnamese food.
Latrelle Dukes: As a little kid, my dad taught DT: What’s your favorite subject at school?
me how to play. When I touched my first football, I LD: Math, education is the way to go.
knew I wanted to be a football player. I love running DT:What is the best nickname you’ve ever had?
the ball and like having the ball in my hands all the LD: Mr. Untouchable
time. I love to break in the open field and score long
touchdown runs. And I love “trucking” people.
DT: What’s your favorite game so far?
LD: The Kent-Meridian game because the line was
making good blocks and opening holes for me, so I
did my part and ran all over the defense and finished
the night with 23 carries, 159 rushing yards, and 3
touchdowns.
DT: What game are you looking most forward to?
LD: Auburn because as I heard they are really
good, and I’m hoping we can go in there and play to
our potential, come out with a win, and show them
how Kentlake Falcons do it on the field.
DT: How do you prepare for a game?
LD: I put on headphones and say nothing to no-
body. Then I go out and perform.
DT: What kind of music do you listen to? Favorite
artist?
LD: I like rap music, and I listen to Gucci Mane
and Lil Boosie.
DT: What are your goals for the season?
Photo by Megan Rogers

October Varsity Sports

Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday
11 12 13 14 15 16 17
Tennis: Soccer: Tennis: Soccer: Swim & Dive: Football:
KL@Decatur (3:30) KL@Auburn (7:30) Spanaway Lake@KL Federal Way@KL KR@KL (3:30) Tahoma@KL (1:00)
(3:30) (7:30)
Volleyball:
KL@KR (7:15) XC: Volleyball:
KR@KL (4:00) KL@Jefferson (7:15)

18 19 20 21 22 23 24
Soccer: Volleyball: Football:
Tahoma@KL (5:30) KM@KL (7:15) KL@Auburn
Riverside (7:00)
Volleyball:
KL@Auburn Soccer:
Riverside (7:15) KL@KW (1:00)

25 26 27 28 29 30 31
Volleyball: Soccer: Soccer: Football:
KW@KL (7:15) KR@KL (7:30) KL@Auburn KW@KL (7:00)
Riverside (7:30)
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Guitar Lessons from Tyler Smith
First Lesson free!
Any band
Any song
Come out to the Fire Creek Grill at Druid’s
Glen Golf Course for a special homecoming
dinner!
Present your A.S.B. card and receive 25%
off any entree on the dinner menu.
So don’t wait, call now to make reservations!
(253) 638- 1200
$20 hour lesson
WHEN MAKING A RESERVATION MENTION IT’S HOMECOMING. $25 your house (253) 630- 2600
NOT VALID WITH ANY OTHER DISCOUNTS OR COUPONS

Beyond The Garden Gate Beyond The Garden Gate

FLORAL & INTERIORS FLORAL & INTERIORS
Shannon Carpenter
Owner & Designer $5 OFF
a Corsage or Boutonniere
(253) 850-6000 when you present this coupon
417 S. Central Avenue Expires September 30, 2008. Excludes
Kent, WA. 98032 holidays.
www.BeyondTheGardenGate-Kent.com
(253) 850-6000

E n e r g y Lake Sawyer Grocery

29036 216th SE Black Diamond
Drinks 253-631-0417

Buy One,
Get One Free!

Only one coupon valid per person. Coupons only valid until October 2, 2008
Lake Sawyer Grocery Store only.