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Tuesday, March 13, 2012

State Solo & Ensemble Contest

BY BROOKE BOCKENSTEDT



The State Solo and Ensemble Contest is for students in band and/or choir. It requires a tremendous amount of effort and ability. First, the musician selects a composition that he or she will prepare for judges. Students can perform solos, duets, or pieces with large groups. Over the course of several weeks, and in some cases months, the student both learns his or her pieces and practices with his or her accompanists. It takes regular dedication and insight on how they are to execute the music and make it one’s own. The music teachers help significantly in building the student into the best performer he or she can be. 



Finally, the day will arrive, carrying with it some nerves and the desire to excel. When being judged, the knowledgeable critic rates the player on a scale of one to five; five, being the worst, is described as a performer hardly playing correct notes with lack of commitment. One is the best, with the performer having accurate notes. However, to get that one, the performer will also need that extra something: contrasting dynamics and personalization. 



Being a musical student myself, I am currently feeling the anticipation in preparing the pieces I will execute. The mental strains are also high with this being my first year as a high school student in the State Solo and Ensemble Contest. 



This year the Western Dubuque band has 46 entries for the State Solo and Ensemble Contest. The amount of soloists is at an all-time high, along with some new additions. Several students are participating in the new soprano saxophone solos and the new woodwind choir. Wish us luck! 

Creative Writing Corner

BY BRITTNI WENDLING

The freshman English classes have been chipping away, working on poetry units.  The students have been digging inside of themselves to bring out their inner Shakespeare while adding their own unique and creative twists to their writing. Some of the types of poetry studied in this diverse unit include haikus, sonnets, concrete poems, acrostic poems, and free verse poems.

 A haiku is a short poem with lines of five syllables seven syllables, and
then another five syllables. Here is a spirited haiku written by Brandon
Hogan:



We never give up.
We play to the last second.
We are the Bobcats.


A sonnet is a more complex poem that contains 14 lines with 10 syllables
in each line. It has a definite rhythm and rhyme. The two types of sonnets
include Petrarchan sonnets and Shakespearean sonnets.

Free verse poetry has no patterns of rhyme and rhythm or rules, and it is
basically the most creative form of poetry. Two types of free verse poetry
include concrete poems and acrostics.  Concrete poetry is where the poetry
forms into an image that represents the poetry. An acrostic poem is a poem
where certain letters (usually the first) are used to combine sentences to
represent a word or a saying.

Here is a free verse poem written by Kyle Valentine:


                        War
                My name is short,
                but I last forever.
                Since the dawn of time,
                I have been lurking.
                I am a disease with no cure.
                People say they have
                won me, but really
                I am the victor.
                Men say they control
                the world but I
                control man.
                Man is weak, I am strong.
                I can’t be caged.
                No matter how many
                locks you put on me.
                I always escape.
                Day after day, night
                after night. I continue
                on. Months, years,
                decades I keep burning
                strong like a fire.
                Piles of bodies begin
                to appear because of
                me. Death thanks me
                for the dead and I smile.
                My name is War and
                if man does not end
                me I will end man.

Here is an acrostic poem written by Laila Sahir:

        Lost amongst the written words
        In a jungle of rustling pages,
        Tied to each character by an invisible bond,
        Edging ever nearer to imaginary places,
        Rapt by the indescribable images,
        Amazed at how each
        Tale unfolds.
        Universes are connected through this most spectacular of arts.
        Readers everywhere take delight in these printed worlds.
        Extraordinary fantasies become realities through the human imagination.

Giddy up, Bobcat Band: Western Dubuque Marching Band Heads to Ticket City Bowl


INTERVIEW BY EMILY VAUGHAN

The Western Dubuque Bobcat Marching band is heading to the Cotton Bowl Stadium in Dallas, Texas for their band trip. Before the Bobcat Band saddles up and heads to ‘The Lone Star State,’ the band director, Michael Omarzu, sat down with me for an interview about the upcoming band trip.

EV: What other bowls have you been to?

MO: When I was in college, I went to the Holiday Bowl a couple times, and I went to a bowl in Tokyo, Japan.

EV: What kind of activities will the band participate in while down in Texas?

MO: Marching in parades, marching at the bowl, and will be doing some concert band and jazz band gigs

EV: Can you tell me about the article that was written about the WD Band in a magazine?’

MO: The article was posted in the National Teaching Music Magazine and was about how cool it was that we went to the Sugar Bowl last year.

Sunday, March 11, 2012

Congrats Basketball

Boys Basketball came 2nd place in the state tournament at wells fargo arena in a double OT heartbreaker. The bobcats came back to tie things up in the 4th quarter after startng down by 10 points. The panthers got a 3 point shot with less than 5 seconds left in the first OT. the bobcats became tired in the 2nd OT and lost to Mt Pleasant with a score of 66-62. Bobcats finished the season 24-3.

Tuesday, February 28, 2012

Congrats Bowlers

Our Congratulations to the boys bowling team for their 2nd consecutive state championship. Good luck also to the boys basketball team at state next week.

Tuesday, February 7, 2012

Senior Spotlight

2012 Horoscopes and Love Forecasts

CREATED BY BREANNA REISEN AND ABBY GLOECKNER

Aquarius - Aquarians are always people oriented. They stay surrounded by many friends all the time. They are
good communicators and possess engaging personalities; hence, people tend to be easily attracted to Aquarians. Aquarians, however, are extremely sensitive and vulnerable, even when surrounded by many friends. In reality, they can have very few close friends. In a romantic relationship, the universal nature of their zodiac sign makes them somewhat detached and aloof. They may seem uninterested in building a romantic relation.

Pisces - A wide range of characteristics can be found among Pisceans which makes them somewhat unpredictable. Pisceans are independent people and enjoy maintaining their separate identities even when moving in a group. The dreamy nature of the Pisceans also affects their love lives at times. Imaginary love plays a very crucial role in the life of a Piscean. They tend to build an imaginary idea of their perfect partners and are easily hurt when the reality doesn’t match their dream. Pisceans often remain confused about where to begin or end a relation. However, if a Piscean receives a partner who can guide him/her through the ups and downs of life, he/she is likely to stay committed. This year is going to be fulfilling for the members of this sign. You may expect your love to mature simultaneously with your relationship.

Aries - Changes are bound to happen and for good. Unwanted hurdles and matters from past may come up in the present. Being level headed and handling issues calmly is highly recommended. Someone special may catch your attention soon. Love sparks are expected to fly for Aries. You will be able to communicate your feelings well to your spouse or loved one. Things won’t be as easy as expected. Look forward to a fresh beginning in your love life. Those suffering ups and downs in relationships can look forward to a change for the better as well. These are sure to refill your love life with new hope and additional goals. Expect the unexpected and choose to be in love all over again. Leave your past behind and go ahead.

Taurus - Your communication strengthens and helps you convey your feelings to your beloved. Send emails,
greeting cards, or a letter to let the person know how much you care. Your heart will have a voice of its own, giving signals to you every time something important happens in your love life. Be careful and stay away from problems. Sensitive discussions are expected to take place. A loved one may get emotional over issues that may not have occurred to you. Avoid getting stuck with little matters as something big awaits you. Patience will actually help the Taurus with love. Romance is on high, so you need not worry. If a new relationship begins, do not rush into intimacy before it matures. A slow start is always better than a rushed one. The love of your life will require your care, which you will gladly provide. Get ready to have a wonderful love life.

Gemini - Gemini are known for their indecisive natures. Just like other areas, their love lives are full of confusions. Due to this nature, there are ups and downs in the personal front. Major change, however, is expected to take place in between January and June this year. The best way to stay away from such problems is to be sure of your decision. You also need to be more fun loving and appreciate the little things. This will also help you to improve your relation with your spouse or loved one. You should spend more time with him/her to understand the issues and solve them tactfully. Gemini has several reasons to smile. Old relations may end, giving way to new ties. Someone special is expected to enter your life. You can look forward to a stable relationship rather than expecting more out of your love life. Being proactive will help you nurture your love life. To make the appropriate decision, listen to your heart. Being imaginative is fun, but putting them into reality is the challenge that you will face.

Cancer - Be careful with what you say, as one word may blow up a relation that you have been trying to preserve. Exercising your biggest strength of patience is the best thing to do when it comes to tender relationships. Give priority to your partner’s needs. You must realize that you are not right all the time, so avoid being too sure of your moves this year. You need to figure out the problems before reaching a decision. You need to invest your time and effort in love this year. Older issues will get sorted out and newer love bonds are likely to happen. Newer love ties may take place. Existing relationships will strengthen. Expectations from romantic affairs will be higher and so will the satisfaction. People of this zodiac sign are compatible with Pisces, Virgo, Leo, and Taurus. The romantic pull will be irresistible and thrilling.

Leo - The powerful Leo is all set to have a splendid year. Your love life is on the slide, so be careful. Proud as
you are, you barely notice people around you. Not that it’s your fault; you are just too busy tending yourself and that’s not a sin. Time urges you to pay attention to your loved one. Spend some time noticing the not-so-important things in your partner. Appreciate the efforts of your dear one and see the magic of love engulf you. To make this happen, however, you need to control your mood swings, as these may hamper a good relationship. A strong bond may fall apart if you can’t handle your anger. Save your relationship from going down south this year. If single, you will attract that special someone. Romance and passion are at a high. People under Leo will also revive old ties and estranged relationships and get the family together with their love and sincere effort. Leos are compatible with Virgo, Libra, Cancer, and Gemini.

Virgo - Virgos have many positive traits to offer a relationship, notably their practicality and reliability. They
are also known for their excellent hygiene, modesty, and adaptability. On the other hand, they can be fussy,
conservative, and critical by nature which can call for a great deal of patience from their partner. The Virgo tendsto lack a bit of conviction when it comes to decision making and can sometimes appear emotionally distant. But this is by no means a true reflection of their character as, deep down, they are kind, sympathetic, witty, and always willing to help others. Perhaps more than any other sign, it is a question of finding the right match for a Virgo. Once a truly loving and mutual connection has been formed, a Virgo will be both loyal and understanding. When they are committed to a relationship, on the other hand, it can also be a great source of pride.

Libra - Libras are blessed with some of the most valuable qualities to preserve and enhance a relationship. They are among the most understanding and considerate of lovers and will go to great lengths to resolve any issues that arise. The Libra can be incredibly tolerant and forgiving of flaws in their partners and have a naturally calm and easy- going nature. Yet, Libras can sometimes cause irritation in their partners as they display an apparent ambivalence when a more excited or angry reaction might be expected. Equally, they may appear angered by a situation that does not seem to warrant it. However, in general the Libra is among the easiest of signs with which to develop a friendship and relationship. The Libra is likely to excel in a managerial or leadership role.

Scorpio - Scorpios have many positive traits that make them very desirable partners including power, determination, and their notorious passion. On the downside, they can also be jealous, secretive, and emotionally volatile. If they are able to harness their emotions and turn them into positive energy, they can be hugely creative, confident, and practical. However, they can take criticism very personally, and, if not corrected, can eat away at their insides and build resentment which will eventually be unleashed on their most trusted confidante. This can be a great asset, particularly in the workplace where they are often suited to roles that involve problem solving or counseling. They are extremely good at discovering the truth; indeed, the Scorpio can sometimes appear almost psychic.

Sagittarius - Sags are known to be some of the most spirited and optimistic of all the Zodiac signs, and these
traits make them naturally appealing to others. Their happy-go-lucky approach to life is often backed up by a
determination to succeed which enables them to bowl along from one situation to the next. The Sagittarius is often well regarded and respected as a friend or partner. They may have a tendency to avoid serious relationships or marriage and prefer instead to continue their single lifestyle. Given sufficient space, they can still function perfectly well in a long-lasting relationship, but if they start to feel their partner is smothering their independence, they will not flourish. It should also be said that, once they are in a truly compatible relationship, the Sagittarius can make wonderfully enjoyable and committed partners.

Capricorn - Capricorns have numerous positive traits that are invaluable in any lasting relationship. They
are known for their careful and patient nature, as well as being practical but at the same time ambitious. Their
weaknesses include staying on the side of caution and being a little pessimistic. The Capricorn is known for being solid and reliable with feet firmly planted on the ground. This often manifests itself in their working lives as they make excellent group leaders and naturally progress to managerial roles. They can be extremely persistent, sometimes to an irritating degree, but they are basically ensuring that the job gets done efficiently and on time. They can be a touch overzealous in this regard, which may lead to them not being particularly popular among colleagues.

Senior Spotlight

Name: Caitlyn Tekippe

Birthday: February 5, 1994

Favorite Class: Video Productions without a doubt. Everything about it was
awesome!

Favorite Teacher: Mr. Smith, although we definitely have a love/hate relationship

Favorite School Lunch: Taco salad for sure!

Favorite Color: Blue

Favorite Television Show: “Keeping Up with the Kardashians” or “The Bachelor,” probably two of the most hated shows in America!

Future Plans: Attend Winona State University and study abroad in Ireland while there! I'm not sure about which major yet.

Where Do You See Yourself in Ten Years: Rich and famous....just kidding! In 10 years, I would like to have a job that requires a lot of travel.

Celebrity Crush: I can't decide on just one! I have always had a soft spot for Zac Efron though. And I will probably marry Liam Hemsworth because I love him in “The Last Song.”

Senior Spotlight

INTERVIEWS CONDUCTED BY ERIN NORTON

Name: Matt Bell

Birthday: January 26, 1994

Favorite Class: Has to be Programming 2!

Favorite Teacher: Mr. Omarzu

Favorite School Lunch: There is nothing better than spicy chicken sandwiches!

Favorite Color: Blue

Favorite Television Show: I don't want much T.V., but if I had to pick, it would be “The Colbert Report.”

Future Plans: Attending a college where I can major in Computer Science

Where Do You See Yourself in Ten Years: I'd love to see myself with a well-paying job and a home.

Celebrity Crush: Emma Watson

The Clubhouse – The Latest Updates on WDHS Clubs and Organizations

COMPILED BY BRENNA WOLFE

This month the following clubs and organizations at Western Dubuque High School have news about
their current activities:

Speech: Congratulations to the Western Dubuque Speech Team for doing very well at the WAMAC
Large Group Competition! Placing 4th and earning a one rating was the ensemble of Jackie Wessels
and Alicia Errthum. Placing 4th and earning a one rating in Improv was the team of Jacob Barnwell,
Morgan Tomas, and Katelynn Till. Placing 5th and earning a one rating in Improv was the team of Brenna
Wolfe, Nicole Valentine, Megan Meyer, Marcus Ingles, and Aaron Ostwinkle. Placing 5th and earning
a two rating in Readers’ Theater was the team of Brenna Wolfe, Morgan Tomas, Justin Kluesner, Jacob
Barnwell, Megan Meyer, Katelynn Till, Aaron Ostwinkle, Marcus Ingles, Nicole Valentine, and Patrick
Leitzen. Go Speech!

Student Council: The WDHS Student Council will be hosting the WAMAC Leadership Conference on
February 8th at Western Dubuque High School. See Mr. Tom Danner for the schedule. Please come and
support WDHS Student Council!

FFA: West Dubuque FFA is celebrating 50 years and would like to see as many alumni as possible attend
the 50th West Dubuque FFA Banquet on March 25th.

Not only are we looking forward to having you join us on that day, but we are also tracking past FFA
officers, achievements, and great memories, as, over the years, some of this information has not been
passed down to us. We want to celebrate 50 years of FFA by having past members present their
memories of West Dubuque FFA.

We will be serving a great meal with the choice of steak or pork chop, with all the fixings. If you would
like tickets, please contact Mr. Lansing or any West Dubuque FFA member. There will be a silent
auction, live auction, and many door prizes. We are hoping to be able to share current activities and
projects with the past members as well as share the achievements that have made West Dubuque FFA
what it is today.

On Feb. 3rd , we are looking for some community supporters of the FFA who would be interested in
viewing and sitting on a discussion panel with students regarding the documentary, “American Meat.”
This documentary will display the positive impact of the American meat industry. The viewing will be
from about 8:00 to 11:00 a.m. and will be shown at Western Dubuque High School in the old gymnasium.
If you are interested in this, please contact WD FFA office or Mr. Lansing.

On another note, National FFA and Monsanto have created a competition for farmers to support
and reconnect with local FFA Chapters. Since Jan. 16th, farmers in the local area have been able to
www.ffachapterchallenge.com and register as a farmer supporting West Dubuque FFA. All votes will be
tallied, and after Feb. 29th, the National FFA will issue cash prizes to top chapters in each state. Please
support your local FFA and register today!

FBLA: Join us on Friday, March 2nd to eat a HyVee dinner and then watch hypnotist Gabriel Homes
preform a show at Western Dubuque High School. Doors open at 5 p.m. with the show to follow at 7 p.m.
Be there!

Tuesday, December 6, 2011

Recap, Western Dubuque’s Superb Football Season

By Brad Prier


Western Dubuque football ended their season on a high note, getting to the playoffs for the first time in over a decade. The Bobcats, coached by Brian Kuhle, had a 6-4 record this year. Because the Bobcats had such a great season, we decided to take a look back at this year.

The Bobcats started the year off with a 34-7 loss to longtime rival Beckman, upsetting fans of all ages. Following that, the Bobcats pulled a close win over West Delaware, winning 17-16. The Bobcats won their next game by a touchdown—7-0 against Marion at home. After that, the Bobcats went on the road for their next game versus Vinton-Shellsburg, winning 41-28. Center Point-Urbana came to town for the WDHS Homecoming the following Friday, the Bobcats winning the game 27-8. WDHS Football then went to Central Clinton for their next game, winning 31-14 to make their win streak 5. Union came to town next week with plans to win and ended the Bobcats streak as they defeated the Bobcats 42-17. The Bobcats went to Maquoketa the week after that, losing 28-14. Thereafter, the Bobcats went to Anamosa and ended the regular season with a 51-25 win over the Raiders. On October 26th, the Bobcats were sent to Grinnell for their first playoff game. The Bobcats suffered a disappointing loss to the Tigers 52-27. The Bobcats were down 24-21 to start the fourth quarter and threw 3 interceptions, all of which eventually making their way to the end zone.  The Bobcats got one touchdown in the fourth quarter but failed on a 2-point conversion.



The Bobcats started the year ranked 9,153rd in the nation and 119th in the state. However, WDHS rose to be 5,335th in the nation and 52nd in the state. The Bobcats achieved their goal of making it to the playoffs, but the team did not achieve their next goal of getting to the UNI-dome. We salute head coach Brian Kuhle, his assistants, and all his players on their great season.  

Seeking Support for Selected Spanish Students

By Alicia Errthum



Sleeping in, swimming pools, and sunscreen.  These are a few of the items that can be found during the first week of summer vacation for most high school students.  However, for a group of lucky Spanish IV students at Western Dubuque High School, the first week of summer will entail airplanes, passports, and tamales. During the first week in June of 2012, this small cluster of students will have the opportunity to travel to Guatemala to learn about the culture there, as well enhance their Spanish-speaking skills. While in Guatemala, these teenagers will also make time to visit and assist at a local orphanage.



Fundraising for this fantastic opportunity includes a Mexican dinner at Fiesta Cancun Restaurant at 6:00 p.m. Tuesday, December 6th. The price of a ticket is $10; tips and donations are also greatly appreciated. To purchase tickets, please contact Mrs. Witter, the Spanish teacher who is organizing and chaperoning the trip.  People in attendance are reminded to sign in. Due to the limit of 50 total participants, tickets will sell quickly, and it is high recommended that you purchase your tickets right away.

The Clubhouse

By Brenna Wolfe


This month, the following Western Dubuque High School clubs have news about their current activities:


Environmental Club: We are selling 32 oz. official Western Dubuque Bobcat water bottles for $8! Two for $15. See Ms. Zangara in Room 600.


Student Council: The Western Dubuque Student Council recently received the Outstanding Chapter award! This is the second highest award for student council in the state of Iowa. Congratulations to Mr. Danner and student council members!


Book Club: This month the Book Club is reading the young-adult science fiction novel Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins. This is the second book in the Hunger Games series.


FFA: This Fall, the FFA’s State Dairy Team finished eighth overall out of 18 teams at State Dairy Cattle. Team members were Andy Dougherty, Codey Waller, Emily Neumueller, and Kyle Kass. At the Kirkwood Horse Judging Contest, the team members were Jordan Lattner, Collin Kramer, DeAnn Ostwinkle, and Hailey Ahmann. They finished fifth overall.  Jordan Lattner finished third place overall individually. Lastly, at the Tri-State Dairy Expo, our FFA club received first place. Our team members were Kyle Kass, Andy Doughety, Codey Waller and Ryan Kluesner.  Andy Dougherty was first place individually, receiving a $200 cash prize.  Kyle Kass was second, receiving a $100 cash prize. Go Bobcats!

Monday, December 5, 2011

Noteworthy Bobcat of the Month

By Jacob Barnwell






Emily Vaughn, of Peosta, is the daughter of Mike and Jill Vaughn and is a sophomore at Western Dubuque High School in Epworth. Emily plays the bassoon and the piccolo for the Bobcat Marching Band, plays the piano professionally, and is co-principle bassoon for the Dubuque Youth Symphony Orchestra.  One of Emily’s favorite parts about the arts program at WDHS is “[t]he fun and colorful characters you meet at competitions.” In Emily’s free time, she likes to write creative fiction, learn songs on the piano, read, act in drama productions, spend time with friends and family, and learn how to play exotic instruments.

Senior Spotlight


Interview conducted by Erin Norton

NAME:  Sidney Marie Burds

BIRTHDAY:  December 9, 1993

FAVORITE COLOR:  I love ALL colors.
FAVORITE FOOD:  Chinese Takeout #given

FAVORITE SCHOOL LUNCH:  The spaghetti is delightful.

FAVORITE TEACHER(S):  J. Smith, of course!  Also, Mr. Jasper even though he says he dislikes me... oh, and Mr. Kurt.

FAVORITE SCHOOL SUBJECT:  Art! How great thou art!

CELEBRITE CRUSH:  Dwight from The Office. Nothing is sexier than mustard-colored shirts.

CAR YOU DRIVE:  A gypsy van.

CAR YOU WISH YOU DROVE:  Who wouldn't want to drive a gypsy van, honestly?

FUTURE JOB:  Aerospace Engineer.

IF YOU HAD ANY SUPERPOWER, WHAT WOULD IT BE:  To control people’s thoughts. "You WILL buy me those expensive boots."

FAVORITE THING TO DO DURING THE HOLIDAYS:  Driving around and looking at lighting decor on people’s homes.

Check Mate! Chess Club at Western Dubuque

By Emily Vaughn



Despite the club making so many appearances in various high school movies, a chess club has never appeared at Western Dubuque High School until now. Justin Kluesner, a junior, has created Western Dubuque’s first chess club. In an exclusive Westener interview, he explained the intimate details of the WDHS Chess Club’s creation:



W: How many people are in chess club?

JK: Over 40
W: Why did you start the chess club?
JK: Because I could. Just kidding, I really wanted to help people learn how to play chess or just become better players.

Horoscopes

By Breanna Reisen and Abby Gloeckner

Aries (Mar. 21- Apr. 19) - You’re usually the center of attention, but when Mercury shifts, you’ll actually have to try to stand out. But don’t worry because when the signs change, you’ll be back on your game.

Taurus (Apr.21- May 21) - Expect to feel much more decisive in many areas of your life. A relationship might hit a few bumps, but you’ll know in your heart if it’s worth saving or not.

Gemini (May 22- June 21) - You’ll be ready to face some things that will make you uncomfortable. Recognize that this puts you on track for change. You could be torn between the demands of school and work.

Cancer (June 22- July 23) - Suddenly there are a lot of new things happening, new projects, goals, and relationships. You’re focused on involvement, and there may be a local issue you feel strongly about, so get involved.

Leo (July 24- Aug. 23) - You have been dealing with a bumpy relationship, and you need some improvement. Problems can be smoothed out, but it will take some work.  If not, you will meet someone new who understands you. You’ll love being with someone who has the same interests as you.

Virgo (Aug. 24- Sept. 23) - It’s a whole new phase in your life, and you’ll likely encounter rocky or intense moments. Overall, it’s all good because you are on the right path. If these plans fall apart, romantic opportunities will cheer you up.

Libra (Sept. 24- Oct. 23) - Relationships pop up right and left. One exciting relationship may pop up before fall ends. Until that happens, you’ll wonder if you’re in line with your dreams.  Don’t be hard on yourself; you’re just getting started.

Scorpio (Oct. 24- Nov. 22) - Your upbeat outlook will attract new people. Someone you once considered an important person could fall back into place in your life. That’s just the natural part of growing up. Your romantic life will heat up.




Sagittarius (Nov. 23- Dec. 21) – You will be easily frustrated this month, so be prepared to face your responsibilities. It’s no big deal because friends are watching your back.  It’s a busy time, and you may feel that you’re making progress and changing interests.



Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 20) - After dealing with a bit of chaos, you’ll welcome a state of stability. One particular thing will take center stage in your life. This is a good time to get new ventures started, but do this sooner rather than later.

Aquarius (Jan. 21- Feb. 19) - You may need to pay attention to your cash for a while. This may mean cutting back on buying various items. Maybe it’s time to focus on what really matters, like your friendships or that special relationship.

Pisces (Feb. 20- Mar. 20) - Others will notice a shift in your attitude.  You’re getting more serious. You will take a mature approach to major decisions. A social issue could grab your attention. Face it; you’re realizing there’s a big world out there waiting for you.


Cocoa & Carols: A Cannot-Miss Event

By Brooke Bockenstedt


Interested in music? Love the holiday season? Enjoy watching young talent? Then this is just for you. Western Dubuque High School’s two show choirs—5th Avenue and the Aristocats—are performing on December 16. This event features both choirs’ competition shows and individual talent showings, anything from singing to dancing or joke telling. The concession stand with also be open, obviously serving the famous cocoa! Chances to win prizes will be available at a $5 price. Prizes include a 42" TV, a golfing package, tickets to the Bell Tower Theater, the Grand Opera House, and the Grand Harbor, and Texas Roadhouse gift certificates. 



5th Avenue is the varsity show choir, consisting of energetic and commanding boys and girls from all grades. Their show songs include Lost in the Wilderness, Light, 21 Guns, I’m Alive, and Steal Your Rock N’ Roll. Aristocats is the second show choir at WDHS, and it is full of artistic
and spirited girls in every grade. Their competition songs are There’s a Place for Us, The Distance You Have Come, Beautiful Life, and Down in Mississippi (Up To No Good). The show band also plays with these two show choirs.



Cocoa & Carols is to be held at 7:00 p.m. Friday, Dec. 16 in the Western Dubuque High School old gymnasium. Admission is $5.00. Hope to see you there!