Norse News

By Mason S. The Roland-Story Jazz Band is gearing up for a year of swinging songs, soulful solos, and jaw-dropping performances. After placing 3rd last year at the Iowa Jazz Championships, this year's band has big shoes to fill, especially to keep the rich musical tradition alive and prove that they are one of the top ensembles in the entire state. Students have been working hard to perfect their musical selections, from big-band Jazz Standards to modern funk hits. Lead trombone player Bradey Haberl said, “I think this year's music is some of the best I’ve ever played. It's definitely my favorite by far, but it is also by far the most difficult music we have ever played. This increased difficulty in music is not without reason. The rhythm section currently comprises all returning players: Aubrey Britten on bass, Cael Vermeer on piano, Mason Schnurstein on guitar, with Ella Murphy and Eli Van Hove both on percussion. The rhythm section is the glue that keeps the band togethe...

By Isaac D. Every year before Christmas, staff and students work tirelessly to perform a breathtaking concert. The teachers often stay for hours after the school day is finished to help students improve the music. The Band Teacher, Mr. Maseman says, “All of the band students are doing a great job of preparing for the Winter Concert, which will feature the challenging selection: "The Polar Express.”  “The Polar Express” is a college level piece, containing the music from the movie of the same name. The band has worked hard perfecting it. Mr Stalzer, the choir teacher, is focusing on making this the best it can be. He directs the Bass, Mixed, and Treble choirs, and has them learn songs that are sure to take your breath away, along with using an unusual instrument, wine glasses! Thor’s Men and the Valkyries are student lead singing groups that will be performing. Thor”s men will be performing an interesting twist on a classic Christmas song. As you can tell, the concert is going to b...

By Ana H. Ms. Furlow is new office staff for Roland-Story High School. She has four daughters, three of whom are still at Roland-Story. She is a hometown staff and is very excited to be at Roland-Story High School. She came to Roland-Story to be near her daughters. Ms. Furlow in her freetime likes to go to her daughters’ sports and loves cheering them on. She also likes photography and is one of the teachers for Yearbook. Ms. Furlow has a daughter that is graduating this year. She has a sophomore and also a 8th grader. Ms. Furlow is excited to embark on this new adventure and see her daughters grow up. Being a staff at the high school has given her more time to be able to see her daughters grow up. Through the craziness of the day, she still loves being at Roland-Story and is excited to have this job at the school. Volleyball is a sport that Ms. Furlow’s daughters love! As a mom of three volleyball players, she does a lot of cheering. She loves going to games and seeing her daughters g...