The Eagle's Eye; Issue 4, Vol. 13; Akins High School

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Twitter.com/AkinsJournalism

things to know

Sleep deprivation… pg. 3

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Some have turned to a new trend deemed “safer” than cigarettes. Are the dangers of smoke and vapor really all that different?

Read more on page 5.

Teddy Lowrey … pg. 13

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Students shed light on the love life of a Mormon. Find out what Mormon students on campus reveal about their faith’s dating rules on page 6.

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Small choices can turn in to big consequences when you take hand of the wheel.

Find out more on page 8-9.

Valentines Day … pg. 15

YouTube.com/AkinsJournalism

The

Eagle's Eye

W. Charles Akins High School

“Everything That Concerns You”

Vol. 13 No. 4

Austin, Texas

Green Tech replaces academy

Events

February 10, 2014

Battle of the Bands

Music contest in jeopardy Kalaya Lane Staff Reporter

Savannah Garza

Future academics ACES teacher Eric John explains Green Tech’s programs to families. Green Tech was introduced at the annual Academy Fair last week.

Current ACES classes to be revamped, gain new focus Robert Soto-Soria Staff Reporter During the coming school year, Akins will say goodbye to the Agriculture, Computer, & Engineering Sciences Academy (ACES) and hello to Green Tech.

The name of the academy is based on the growing industry of green technology that is becoming more in demand as people are increasingly forced to live in a more ecofriendly manner.

The change is being spurred by the new graduation requirements and endorsement plans mandated by the Legislature when it passed House Bill 5 last year. The law has pushed Akins administrators to move the computer related courses that ACES used to offer to the New Tech Academy, creating an opportunity to develop new majors for students.

“The ACES academy is just going to lose the ‘C’ in its name, which is going to be moved to the New Tech academy,” ACES assistant principal Pamela Gray said.

On-Campus

Green technology is basically technology centered around natural resources that do not harm the environment like, for example, biofuels. This industry will reduce the need for fossil fuels that harm the atmosphere thus helping the environment.

According to a November 2013 article in the Austin American-Statesman, “Texas is one of the top states in the country for clean-energy jobs” and “is a nationwide leader in creating such jobs.”

“ACES is changing with the trend of today’s market,” said academy coordinator Kenyatta Williams. “As technology evolves, so have we.”

Through this change, there will also be majors in the Green Tech academy: Veterinary Assistant, Horticulture, Energy & Natural Resource Technology, Environmental Specialist, and Park Ranger Cadet.

Some of the new electives that will be available are: Wildlife, Fisheries, and Ecology Management, Environmental Systems, Advanced Environmental Technology, and

Principles of Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources.

Because this is a new, growing industry, there has been a couple of colleges that have been opening up locally that focus on green technology. One of them is opening up this June and is named Eco Tech Institute.

By exposing students to this industry at a young age, more of them will become inwhich is expanding throughout the country.

“I am excited about the changes because it is a great opportunity for students to get exposed to a new industry that is going on right now,” ACES science teacher Ashley Gahan said.

With the new changes, students will not only be receiving a great education in the of opportunities like new internships that are going to be available, Gahan said.

Throughout the following years as the academy grows “we hope to bring in more students into the environmental sciences,” Gray said.

The seven-year-old Battle of the Bands event is in danger of ending because of a lack of student involvement.

With few students helping to organize and run the event; social studies teacher Melinda Horowitz is looking for recruits to help coordinate the annual event.

“It is a competition for bands, singers, and artists of students that go to Akins High School,” Horowitz said. “They will be judged on a variety of different measures like musicality, entertainment, skill, professionalism. Basically they compete against one another for the title of best band of Akins High School.”

Horowitz said anyone at this school could audition. And the only requirement for the band is that at least one member in the band is a current Akins student.

Although there was much to expect in the past battles, this year there is a high stakes of losing the tradition.

“This year the club that helps to organize this event is reforming,” Horowitz said.

“The previous club organizers have all graduated so we need helping hands to meet after school to get the party started.”

Organizers have different roles when trying to create the event.

“Usually we have teams of people doing different things,” Horowitz said. “One team will handle tickets sales, another manages concessions, another welcomes people into the theatre, and there is also backstage workers.”

Alumn Jackson King participated in the 2012-2013 Battle along with alumni Ben Livingston and Michael Nottebart in their band Capture Theory.

“Battle of the Bands was one of the greatest experiences of my high school career,” King said. “I want to see it continue because it gives students an opportunity to share something personal through music and gives them experience.”

With so many previous bands and artists there is a variety of music to be expected.

“There could be rock, metal, country, R&B, rap, etc.,” Horowitz said. “The only parameters that we look for is to make sure songs and students are professional and appropriate for all audiences because it’s an all ages show.”

Horowitz feels passionate about having See “HELP” page 10

Business Professionals of America

New after school concession stand attracts students Mark Vallejo Staff Reporter

inside

all Akins students especially because they are the ones buying the snacks.

“It’s going really good, especially when they announce it on the intercom, most people go those days,” Cancino said.

Because of school restrictions on the length of a fundraising activity, Shaw didn’t know if BPA would be able to continue throughout the rest of the year. She proposed that some of the money would go to each academy to keep it open longer than normal.

“Since we can’t do fundraising for the entire year, maybe we can keep the snack shack open by giving some of the money to the school as well,” Shaw said.

Various students have different opinions on whether it should stay open all year or not and how they use it.

“I don’t know if it would be good because we already have Chick-Fil-A and

and the students, then I think it’d be a good idea to keep it open,” Dechen said.

Junior Christopher Collin Remington school is a good idea.

“If it makes the students happy and actugreat idea for them to continue all throughout the year,” Remington said.

Dechen thinks that the snack shack sells a lot of junk food.

“I love what they sell, but I think they should sell other items like granola bars or other things that are healthy snacks,” Dechen said.

The BPA students plan on using part of the money to travel to Houston in March for state-level competitions.

Chips Gatorade BPA Snack Shack

Candy Pop tarts Cookies Everything cost $1!

Opinions...pg 2, 3 News...pg 4-5 Student Life...pg 6-7 In-Depth...pg 8, 9, 15 Entertainment...pg 10,11 Sports...pg 12, 13 Photo Essay...pg 14, 16

Savannah Garza

Like a true entrepreneur, business teacher Lisa Shaw found a money-making solution to a common student problem: hunger pains after school.

The BPA student organization she helps sponsor has recently begun selling snacks such as chips, Gatorade, candy, Pop-tarts, and cookies, outside of her classroom to help raise money for the group and other school needs.

“Well since I’m in charge of an after school tutoring program, kids are always hungry,” teacher Lisa Shaw said. “So I thought that maybe if we had a snack shack after school, that would be a good way to help the students from their hunger.”

Junior Damaris Hernandez supports the snack shack and what they’re doing for the students after school.

“I think that it’s really awesome because if students get hungry they can just go there

for some snacks,” Hernandez said.

Students have volunteered to run the snack shack along with Shaw.

“It’s going pretty well,” senior Travis Carnline said. “There’s always hungry students after school and I think it’s a great way to raise money for the other academies.”

Opinions The Eagle’s Eye

Monday, 02.10.14

page 2

A.I.S.D restricts resources within schools EDITOrIAL on YouTube to help stu pulls up a website that their

history lectures, math tuto now unavailable because

it is okay to block sites, to

telecommunication services technology must block cer tain websites that may show puters are the only resource the fact that they have over

This is one of the reasons

censoring useful sites like is fortunate enough to have a There are many sites that obscene or explicit content The

school

many opportunities that can that show that we have very

eration is more technology

ing to how we best learn is

Finances

there is no reason for ex

information technology of

lesson plans that are not Taking away these sites is basically taking away

absorb in what they are try Teachers put up tutorials

websites that are school ap websites to help promote photography or an online

principals sites like Twitter, Facebook

loose by unblocking appro

many websites takes away

use at school, but now we

Alternative payments

High parking price questionable among teen drivers That may not seem like a lot of money,

Amanda Livingston Staff reporter To pay to park on campus, along with the information of your car you must supply the Even though the money goes to things

Even if a small amount of those cuts are for the schools upkeep, there are other ways

bake sale, host a car wash, or sell catalogs

The Eagle’s Eye Editor-in-Chief Savannah Garza

Editorial Policy

News Editor Jacqueline Rodriguez

Ariel Phillips Staff reporter

In-Depth Editor Caitlin Starks Opinions Editor Hannah Kerns Student Life Editor Stephanie Zuniga

comes to what someone can like or

Entertainment Editor Marissa Sosa

These stereotypes are a big reason

Sports Editor Kenneth Jennings Photo Editor Marisol Gomez On-line Editor Matthew Lopez Christian Hernandez

if you like a combination of both

Visual Editor Jacob Sanchez Adviser David Doerr

a mother telling her

Eagle’s Eye Staff

happens if a little girl makes you happy, then what others think is not

Organizations Jonathan Rivera

it comes from peers, tell someone that they are person is, who they will be, or

Monday, 02.10.14 Rights

Opinions

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The Eagle’s Eye

Hiding reality

Censorship limits student’s voice Sonny Zuniga Student Life Editor All topics we are made to stride away from our normal school curriculum.

We are told that we are adults and should act like it but then we are limited to the topics we are allowed to speak out on and are made to muzzle our voices.

To be a reporter we must venture into controversial topics and learn to handle backlash instead of administrators being concerned of the response of parents and higher powers.

How are we supposed

to learn to be reporters and go into our careers when we aren’t even allowed to handle our own and are revoked our chances to even try.

I plan on being an editor for a magazine or newspaper for my future career but it frustrates me not being able to write about topics such as abortion because it’ll bring a bad image to what we’re learning. But topics such as these I feel make us learn to deal with all the bad criticism and learn to stand our ground when the world is screaming back at us that we’re wrong. I believe that helps all of us be more open minded to opposing ideas.

Rape is real. Abortions

happen- even in our high school scene- and the fact that we can’t even put out

Johannah Decay

our opinion irks me.

We are supposedly being protected but really they are only protecting the image of the school because they’re

Finances

GuEST EdITOrIAL

too scared to face what is real. We should be allowed to write what we feel like as long as we can stand by our words and handle all the feedback shot back.

It’s like we are children and we’re told to cover our ears when the “adults” talk so we are shielded from what is reality. Facing re-

ality is what we should be prepared to face. We can’t be made to stick with the clean version of life.

I for one am tired of having to censor everything for the sake of parents and people who aren’t willing to know the truth and stick to their own version of how they want topics to be told. I have a voice.

We all do. As future reporters we should be able to voice the truth and tell it how it is to those who will listen and even to those back. You won’t please everybody, If you are, you aren’t doing your job as a reporter.

We need explicit. We need uncensored. We need reality.

Costly attendence

Money problems create Cheating yourself issues for college choices Dear Eagles Eye readers, If someone called you a cheater, would you be offended?

following: 1. verb — to break a rule or law usually to gain an advantage at something.

Break a rule. Or a law. Sounds like serious stuff. And to gain an advantage? Who would do that? Unfortunately, it turns out that the answer is lots of people.

Cheating comes in many different forms and is all too common. Regardless, whether it is on a big test or a homework sheet, it’s always wrong.

People offer up all sorts of reasons to cheat.

Sometimes students forget to study or do their homework. Sometimes they just never tried to study or were too lazy to get help from a teacher.

So they just get a friend to snap a picture of their work and send it to them. Problem solved. Right?

Wrong.

You may get good grades on school work and homework due to cheating, but what about when you have a test, and cheating isn’t an option because of some “unlucky” reason? You’re about to have some serious issues because you don’t even know what you’re doing.

Let’s say you make good grades. They are so good that you are ranked in the top 10 percent, which can get pretty competitive. You cheat and cheat and cheat, but no one knows. What happens when You’ve cheated your way through important classes and it comes time to take college readiness exams? How are you supposed to do well on these exams and prove you belong in your class rank when you don’t know anything?

Prove to yourself and others around you that you work hard for your grades, you earned them.

Prove that you didn’t take the easy way out.

Stop cheating yourselves Eagles. You are so much better than that.

Sincerely, Anonymous

Catilin Starks In-Depth Editor Ever since my junior year, my mom has had a folder full of mail from out of state colleges. my college applications, my mom still kept “pushing the envelope,” trying to get me to apply to an out of state college.

Her logic is that cost doesn’t matter if I get a fullride through scholarships and grants.

However, when considering an out of state college it is important to be aware of not only the tuition of the school but the cost of living arrangements, food, electric bills and water bills (if you decide to live outside the school’s dorms). This can add up to a lot of money and it’s one of the reasons I would recommend going to college in state.

Another reason why I would recommend going to college in state is the distance from your family. If you go somewhere else in the nation, it is harder to come home and support your family if there is an emergency. It’s also more expensive and more visits.

Personally, I don’t want to move that

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far away because of my dog, who has severe anxiety issues. It’s better for the both of us if I can come home at least once every few weeks to check on her and spend some time with her.

While some students want to go as far away from home as possible, they should consider the costs of living on their own, the consequences of being away from their family and friends, and the thousands of dollars you are saving by going to college in state.

For example, one year of tuition at the University of Texas costs $25,704 – $27,096 whereas one year of tuition at the University of California costs $55,278.

If a student spent all four years at the University of California rather than the University of Texas, the student would have to pay $112,726 – $118,296 more than if they had just went to the University of Texas.

I don’t know about the rest of the student body, but I certainly don’t have an extra $100,000 to spend.

Just remember wherever you end up going to dream big, even if you have to start small and close to home.

Academics Deprivation

Lack of sleep takes toll on student performance Jacob Sanchez Visuals Editor

er and then they have to do homework.

will be around 12 to one in the morning depending on how much homeSome students at school have been work they had to do. Finally, they have having trouble staying awake or paying to wake up at 7a.m to be able to catch attention due to the lack of sleep they the early school bus or else they won’t received the prior night. Sleep depriva- make it in time. tion can have psychological effects on Other students have complete conyou such as headaches, hallucinations, trol of their sleep but still complain depression and many others. about not getting enough. They blame Sleep deprivation can start a down- their performance on their sleep when ward spiral when students get to their really it traces back to their choices.

They get home from school with only and they can’t stay awake, the teacher tells them to keep their heads up and in less than a couple of hours and then pay attention. The student continues to they have the rest of their evening. Infall asleep so he gets sent to I.S.S. He/ stead of going to sleep at a good time, she has now gotten into a lot of trou- they stay up all night watching Youble simply because he/she didn’t get Tube videos or on Twitter up until 3 enough sleep the prior night. a.m. They wake up really tired and they Some students don’t have much might not even go to school that day control to when they can go to sleep because they don’t feel like getting up. because they have after school practice If you are trying to get your sleeping for a sport or even a job so they don’t routine back on track than you should get home until eight or ten in the eve- really try to go to sleep a good amount ning. They eat something, take a show-

of time before your usual time. Your body will be thankful and so will you the next morning. If you still feel tired, try taking a shower in the mornings to wake yourself up a little and so you will feel refreshed. If you didn’t have a chance to eat in the morning than take some kind of fruit to school to snack on and some water to stay hydrated so you can stay awake during your classes.

When you are trying to go to sleep next time, try to relax yourself as much as possible to increase the amount of deep sleep or REM sleep that you get.

If you aren’t doing some of these things to help yourself out than you are just complaining and blaming it on other people or circumstances. It will be

THE EAGLE’S VIEW What is your ideal date?

“It would be in the country, horseback riding.then laying and watching the stars.”

Bailey Carnline Freshman

“Canoeing in the middle of the day at 2 PM, then we’d go and have a picnic together.”

Jermaine Thomas Sophomore

“Going to the park on a picnic date, in the middle of the day when it’s sunny.”

Desiree Hipolito Junior

“Nothing, because usally when I date someone they’re crazy, and that disturbs the

Nathanial Brewer Senior

“I would say going to a restaurant along the beach, watching the sunset and hearing the peaceful waves.”

to continue working at it until you get a comfortable sleeping schedule for yourself so that you can get a healthy number of hours. Your motivation will show through your grades and at your job if you have one. Remember, if you snooze than you don’t lose.

Hannah Kerns

Teresa Grumbles AVID Teacher

News The Eagle’s Eye Media

Monday, 02.10.14

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Lack of access

Teachers, students stress need for media

Limited use of certain websites cause frustration among those who use it Jacqueline Rodriguez News Editor Since mid-January, Austin ISD has changed the setblocking all but the “Education” channel that contains pre-screened videos.

However, many other videos often used by teachers to teach are also getting blocked. So instead of students intently watching videos educational videos, classes are erputing with complaints such as “I can’t see the video!’’ “It won’t play!” “It’s blocked!” and what was once a helping tool in luring the students into todays lesson is now pushed off to the side out of frustration.

Since last year, YouTube was easily accessible to students on campus, but now is tional to be viewed by those in the school district’s Information Systems and Tech“I regularly use social media in the education setting,” New Tech academy Teacher Lora Alaniz said.

“So those websites being blocked has really taken a

toll on the quality of education we are having right now.”

Last year Akins pushed a new method of teaching.

With sites like YouTube being blocked frustration is emerging while teachers tive.

“I feel that there are some videos that are purely educational but are not labeled as educational so we’re trying to get that opened up,” principal Daniel Girard said. “I think there is sort of a push and pull between the district and what we’re doing here at school.”

YouTube, along with many other sites including cial to those among campus for homework, tutorial, and lecture use are now being blocked. AISD department of Information Systems and Technology blocks sites that may hold inappropriate content in order to receive federal funding for telecommunication services and Internet access.

However, many feel that although this could be a reasonable explanation for the

Photo illustration by Savannah Garza

Access Denied Computers are denied access to certain websites for containing “prohibited friendship content.” Sites like YouTube and Twitter, that were once open to everyone on campus, are now blocked from Austin ISD schools.

limited access of certain tion prevents educational “To block certain sites from teens who are learning to be in the world and interact with it, I think is a disservice to them,” Alaniz said.

“How are you supposed to learn how to be safe on the Internet if you can’t even be on it.”

As many are frustrated over the limited access, stution of certain sites is much more than homework deep and hurts many on campus.

“I feel that as a student and a member of publications at school the website in Yearbook,” senior Aless Luna said. “If we ever need to announce anything to the student body it’s hard be-

cause we need to go to our teacher to help unblock sites like Twitter and it’s a hassle and things don’t get put out fast enough.”

Many teachers also feel this is another problem rising.

“Not every student has a computer at home or a cell phone with a data plan,” Alaniz said. “I feel like this is hurting people who don’t

already have the resources as it is.”

From preventing educathe lack of Internet use in school limits students ability to take on bigger responsibilities.

“If we are to teach them how to be responsible digital citizens, then they need to access the Internet world,” math teacher Natalee Peterson said.

Financial aid season starts; ABLLE assistant principal common questions answered Academies

A warm welcome

welcomed among campus Isaiah Strange Staff Reporter Akins High School has recently gained a new member to its administration, Robert Deckard.

Deckard, a teacher who previously taught at Bowie High School, has become the new principal for the ABLLE academy and is being welcomed by many among campus.

“I’m excited to have him as a part of our team, he comes from experience and has a strong focus for education,” principal Daniel Girard said.

With the recent retirement of Joe Ruiz, Akins was shoes midway through the year.

“Happy to be here, everyone’s been great and welcoming. It just feels great to be here,” principal Robert Deckard said.

briefs

weeks here at Akins, he’s coming into something much different than he’s experienced. One big difference is how much more assistant principals are involved in academics, rather than just discipline, he said.

Caitlin Starks

Newest member Robert Deckard poses for his administrator photo during school. Deckard previously worked at Bowie High School.

“Assistant principals are involved with instruction. I also like how Mr. Girard allows us to be so involved.”

Deckard said.

It’s a big adjustment for Deckard, as he’s never experienced a school setup like the way Akins is designed.

The academies are a giant change, but with a welcoming staff and student body, it shouldn’t be too hard he said.

“Mr. Deckard seems to be very upbeat and passionate about his job,” English teacher Christopher Ashlock said. “He’s very easy to talk to, and likes Akins a lot.

He’s really trying to integrate.”

Even though he’s from rival school Bowie, most Akins students are very welcoming of him.

“He’s pretty funny, he seems like a good guy when I met him, and I’m excited for him to be here,” junior Makaila Villarreal said.

Even Deckard himself seems to be enjoying himself here at Akins.

“Being here from Bowie, there wasn’t a big difference, everything felt the same and I enjoy Akins a lot.” Deckard said.

When it comes to Akins, there’s a lot of stuff to learn, they’re different, and it’s a giant change from any other school.”

Club calls for more travelers; Tech girls selling girl scout cookies after school Puerto Rico trip not yet filled Craving something sweet after school?

Tech girls is selling girl scout cookies after school for four dollars a vors range from the traditional Thin Mints, Original Shortbread, the peanut butter Do-

h Garza

Savanna

Si-Do’s, to the caramelized Samaos. Sponsored by Kena Pierce who is located in room 165.

Hurry up before they are gone as cookies will stop being sold after Febuary 21st.

So grab your wallets and stop by to pick up your deliciously sweet treats before they disapear very soon!

Looking for a trip of a lifetime?

The Puerto Rico Travel Club might be the place you’re looking for!

Spanish Teacher Brooke Maudlin has limited spots for those looking to go on a trip this Summer with her club.

Students who attend the trip will get the chance to travel to places like Luquillo Beach, El Yunque Rainforest,

and Old San Juan.

Savannah Garza

The trip is open to all students at Akins and even parent chaperones can sign up to come join students on the trip.

Be on the look out for more info sessions held by Maudlin about the trip and don’t forget to sign up before it’s too late!

Monday, 02.10.14 Events

News

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The Eagle’s Eye

Academic contest

Students participate in first ever science fair CTE conducts educational event; winnners soar to regionals in competition Kassimira Martinez Staff Reporter

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Science show off Senior Josue Gonzalez and his partner show young students their Rocket Motors science

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Academics

Passing the class

Failure rate exceeds campus goal among freshman students Nicolas Sokolowski Staff Reporter

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Trends

Electronic cigarettes

E cigs gain popularity against traditional smoking methods

Arielle Phillips Maria Moreno Susana Rocha Staff Reporters

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Student Life Monday, 02.10.14

Sarah Luna Staff Reporter

really fast and then easily put themselves down.”

With body image, we mostly think about girls who just want to be thinner, but that isn’t necessarily the issue all the time. It doesn’t always depend on shape or size, it could be just any simple thing- big or small that a girl doesn’t like about herself.

According to the Emily Program Foundation, 1 in 5 women struggle from an eating disorder and 90 percent are between the ages 12 and 25.

“A lot of times in the spring mostly, I have cases of girls coming in because they pass out after going for a while without eating,” said Nurse Corey Scheuerman. “I don’t know if it’s because of the upcoming swimsuit season or if it

Young girls often feel like it’s impossible to please everybody and in high school there is along list of people to impress.

They deal with the stress of striving for an impressive GPA, keeping on the good side of parents and teachers and looking for the perfect boyfriend. And that doesn’t even include one of the daily problems that girls struggle with – maintaining their looks with modelesque features or showing off their expert sense of style.

“Girls my age are most the world, more than they should be but it’s a fact,” said sophomore Julissa Vega. “Girls tend to usually get worked up

Workload

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has anything to do with it, but young girls in high school shouldn’t worry about that.”

“I understand what the girls are coming from as they fast, because they want to look good but I honestly think it’s ridiculous. There’s healthier ways too lose weight,” senior Bailee Compton said.

Body image affects a lot of girls, and it’s important to know that The Student Support Services student support services called Girls Empowerment Group which offers support for girls with any sort of issues.

“The role of social and all the other things that can contribute to how we view ourselves and ultimately, what do

we feel like beauty is?”

Social worker Colleen Arnold said. “Anyone struggling with body image can also come and talk with us individually and I’d be happy to meet with them.”

Only 10 percent of people suffering with an eating disorder will seek professional help according to the foundation.

“Ever since I was little, I never really liked my smile, I disliked my teeth because of the way t h e y were shaped and I w a s always

getting made fun of. But my boyfriend and loved ones got me to feel comfortable and beautiful with myself,” Vega said.

It’s important for girls to keep in mind that although it’s not easy now, “Ultimately, girls should learn to accept the skin they’re in,” Compton said.

Illustrations by Jacob Sanchez and Sonny Zuniga

The Eagle’s Eye

Johannah Dakay

Stress levels

Students deal with stress, anxiety as a result of school Maria Moreno Staff Reporter Grades, entrance exams, STAAR, these are some of the current issues that most Akins students are facing.

A daily life of a junior in high school consists of AP classes, extracurricular activities, and worrying about their future.

“With all the homework they give us it stresses me out, they expect us to do so much in such a small time frame,” junior Jesus Cruz said.

Naturally, students feel stressed, but this can lead to serious anxiety issues. Anxiety is a mixture of fear, worry, and uneasiness.

“When I have anxiety I can’t breathe, I get headaches, and get asthma attacks,” junior Mey Giron said.

Every student has different

Hobbies

stress levels. Every two out of 5 students interviewed said to have a level 7 or higher stress level, 10 being the highest. Students say that school is

what stresses them out the most. “ I try really hard in my classes, but for some reason I can’t write an essay that’ll impress my English teacher, it gets me really mad,” junior Samantha Nava said.

Sonny Zun

iga

“Writing essays is really nerveracking, especially the one’s we have to write in less than 40 minutes.”

Although schoolwork is a common factor that triggers stress, it isn’t the only thing that causes the hair falling.

“School work doesn’t stress me as much as socializing does,” junior Angelica Barajas said. “ I hate not being able to talk to people as good as other people do.”

Giron, who suffers from anxiety has to learn how to cope with it.

“I have to stop and take a breather when I get anxiety attacks and take medication for it everyday,” Giron said. “ It really helps a lot.”

Other students take a different approach when dealing with feeling anxious.

“To help cope with my anxiety,

I simply redirect it,” junior Anastasia Barr said. “ Worrying about the test I just took won’t help me, but focusing about the homework that’s due tomorrow will.”

Students have different ways of escaping their stress.

“I like to drive out by myself and hang out by a lake and just look at nature’s beauty when I’m stressed or hang out with my friends,” junior Nebai Tapia said.

“I recommend it if you’re ever feeling stressed because it honestly helps me when I’m feeling anxious.”

Some students don’t get as stressed as others and know how to balance everything. “ I don’t know but school doesn’t really stress me out, and I take both sophomore and junior classes, since I’m trying to graduate early,” sophomore Joshua Trevino said. “You just have to learn how to manage.”

Out of the ordinary

A teacher’s hobby catches eyes of students on campus

Deandra Tristan

Showcase of artwork Briseno shares with us her many pieces of artwork that are used as designs for tattoos. Briseno earns money for much of her artwork.

Deandra Tristan Staff Reporter Tattoos are a common way to commemorate a memorable moment in life, but a tat drawn by a teacher – that’s special.

Many students get tattoos when they fall in love, turn 18 or when they graduate. For some it gives them a sense of independence.

Many want their tattoos to be unique so it stands out, but they don’t know how to turn to design or draw it. Not surprisingly, algebra teachers are not a typical source

of designs that have later turned into tattoos.

Geometry teacher Elise Briseno has been drawing since she was seven years old and her work has gained fans among her students.

Students have recognized her artwork, and asked her to design some drawings so they can eventually get them tattooed.

Briseno, who was recently named Akins teacher of the year, doesn’t just draw for any student. She has some requirements that need to be met.

“I only draw them for

students with a high school diploma, not a GED,” Briseno said.

She also only draws for former students.

Junior Felipe Rodriguez recently asked Briseno for a design of a triskelion.

“I found out she (draws) tattoos last year during class my sophomore year on the guez said. “I was kind of surprised. I didn’t expect a teacher to be into something interesting like tattooing.

That’s when I asked her to design one for me but she told me she would only do it

after I graduate.”

Although this is a hobby Briseno does earn money for her artwork.

“She draws tattoos for people and gets paid for it,” junior Micah Cantu said.

“I would ask her to design one for me because I’ve seen some of them and they’re really good,” Cantu said.

Her artwork ranges from animals, to cartoon characters and original ideas of her own.

Briseno’s passion for art brings enjoyment to her and former students that have had her design their tattoos.

Jacqueline Rodriguez

Teacher of the year Briseno shows excitement in her crowning moment of

Monday, 02.10.14 Clubs

Student Life

page 7

The Eagle’s Eye

Animal lovers

FFA club members discuss obligations Sarah Luna Staff Reporter The responsibilities of being a member of the Future Farmers of America are like those of no other student organization on campus.

FFA involves multiple routines such as waking up early in the morning to feed animals, beautifying a creature that doesn’t naturally want to be groomed, and training, sometimes, noncooperative animals how to walk to impress a judge or a buyer.

Senior Emily Hernandez, senior Robyn Clapper, and freshman Jordan Marrero said they have lots of fun as members of FFA. However, they say it’s a club in which you have to do more than just show up.

“You have to schedule evClapper said. “You have to be sure to feed them at regu-

lar times, not too early or too late. I probably spend as much time up at the barn as I do here at school, because your animal is basically like Clapper, who is raising a hog named Gimli, admits that it takes patience and responsibility.

“You have to spend a lot of time training them to walk with a stick, so that takes a good couple of hours or days depending on how stubborn FFA involves a time commitment similar to that of sports. It also requires students to maintain passing grades so they can fully participate. If a student fails just one class, they can’t show their animals at contests until the next six weeks.

Hernandez, who is president of FFA, said she has to be a role model and leader to the other members.

“If you do something

Hannah Kerns Opinions Editor Everywhere you go within the school you see new and old couples hand in hand in the hall ways, but not everyone is allowed cant other at such a young age.

Many religions have different views on dating and it varies between each group. For example, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints

(LDS), which has 15 million members world wide, and stringent rules for teen dating.

“We can’t date until we are sixteen, once you are sixteen we can go on group dates but it is encouraged to avoid frequent dates with the same son Loosle said.

LDS has quite a few rules in the dating section of their go-to guide.

“When I start dating I will have to go on double dates.

good, the other members will try harder to do well too and at the same time it brings a lot of responsibilshe said.

As a new member Marrero said she enjoys spending time with the animals.

“It’s really fun taking care of all the animals, although a bit tiring because it takes a lot of work but I Clapper said FFA has teaching her skills like how to trim hooves, give shots and dehorn goats.

“I want to be a veterinarian and FFA has prepared me for what it’s like to be “And now I can tell if an

Karla Sanchez

“FFA is a great program and I’m proud to be a part of

Ready to impress A goat has a snack in the FFA barn. Students wake up early to feed, train and groom their animals for competition.

a lot of effort and responsibility, but it also prepares

the students who would like to continue a career relating

We also have to date another person more Patten Whiting said.

Although to many, that may Mormons aren’t bothered at all. hard because that’s how I’ve grown up and it’s how I said.

All

of

these

from the “For the a pamphlet that the church encourages

its members to follow.

“We try to follow the Ten Commandments, but junior Macy Whiting said. “Its not a sin to have a boyfriend, but the law of chastity is one of the commandments and they want to make sure we don’t The law of chastity is the abstinence from sex before marriage and full loyalty to your partner after marriage.

“I try to away from ations that tempt me to

Working nearly all year

to raise impressive livestock is what FFA students do.

stay situwill have

The Mormon law of chastity sets their church apart from other religions, but they believe that it leads to a happy “It can be hard to watch everyone else in high school date while I cant, but its important you honor your mother and father and that means not breaking the

Photo courtesy of For The Strength of Youth

Even though everyone sins, their religion states that they should forgive,

even if they break one of these rules.

“The church is a hospital for sin-

Illustration by Jacob Sanchez

Sports

Spirit on the rebound

Teachers bring diversion to enliven halftime show Tyler Derickson Staff Reporter Where some see half time as a chance to go to the bathroom or grab a snack, English teacher Ebone Bagnall saw an opportunity to entertain and build school spirit during this time of intermission.

So this year she and Athletic director David Peavy have worked to bring performances and activities between all of the home varsity games. These half time shows have includes performances ranging from the step team to the cheerleaders.

“So far in the shows we have had the cheerleaders, step team and hip-hop team preform, but I would like to see the color guard and marching band participate in

Bagnall and Peavy hope that the half time show will become a commodity and will bring in waves of fans and school spirit to the games.

“The half time show has been a really cool idea and I was very happy to be a part of it this year and I hope it becomes a hit at Akins next said.

The show has gotten some attention recently because of the variety of events seen throughout the year.

“We have put a lot of effort into giving the students something to get them more involved in the games and I’m happy to be a part of nall said.

An Idea about obtaining a sponsorship to sponsor the half-time show has also been brought into attention. Half-

time events are also set to make an appearance into the half-time show in the near future.

The events are meant to portray a style that professional sports events do with thing like games for awards and prizes.

“I want to have activities like 3-point shootouts and half-court shots for more entertainment and to get the students involved in the show too. Bagnall said. I’m hoping to also get a sponsorship from an organizahost the event and it will add another element to it with their food being sold at the With ideas rolling for the show it looks like this could become a tradition for Akins athletic events and it very well could become an every year tradition.

of SouthPark Meadows Invites you to get a FREE Original or Spicy Chicken Sandwich, or 8 Count Nuggets with the purchase of a Large Waffle Fry and Large Drink.

Offer good only at Chick-fil-A I-35 & Slaughter in SouthPark Meadows. Expires 05/31/14.

In-Depth The Eagle’s Eye

Monday, 2.10.14

page 8

Caitlin Starks In-Depth Editor Imagine being at a party. It’s the end of the night and you want to go home but you have had too many drinks because you couldn’t say no.

Sadly, this happens a lot more than people think, teenagers are pressured to drink and then when the party is over they try to drive themselves home risking their lives and the lives of other people on the road.

30

What people need to understand is that drinking and driving is not glamorous, fun, or easy as some would suggest.

“Drinking and driving is just horrible because it can end in very serious and deadly situations,” senior Daryn Beltran said.

Drinking and driving accidents happen so often that students at this school are often affected by them.

“A close friend was drunk driving in a rent-a- car without his seat belt and crashed into another car breaking

people a day die from drinking and driving related accidents.

48

$51 billion a year

10,000

rks

Over people a year die from drunk driving

Sta

Caitlin Starks

Drunk Driving costs the United States more than

tlin

I don't want to take a taxi

Also, 31 percent of students said that they would never stop someone from drinking and driving.

“If my friends were drunk I would stop them from driving,” Beltran said.

“They could get arrested or injured or something worse.”

Sometimes students end up in situations they cannot help and feel driving is the only way out. Cabrera said she feels it is best to be prepared.

“You should always make sure you have a designated driver,” Cabrera said.

Cai

Caitlin Starks

Every minutes someone dies from a drunk driving accident

his arm. He then drove off and left the car somewhere,” senior Deymi Cabrera said. “It really opened my eyes that it can happen to anyone.”

According to an anonymous student survey conducted by the Eagle’s Eye, of 100 students, 80 percent of students know someone who has driven or currently drives drunk.

“A close friend was driving drunk and he fell asleep behind the wheel and crashed into the guard railing, totaling his car,” senior Alyssa Gonzales said.

Marissa Sosa and Savannah Garza

The Truth about drinking and driving

Monday, 2.10.14

In-Depth

The Eagle’s Eye

page 9

DU I By the numbers Results shown in graphics are derived from an anonymous student survey in which 100 students were surveyed through surveymonkey.com

Jacob Sanchez

26.10%

12-20

ONE IN THREE

I can hold my liquor

One more

people will be involved in a drinking and driving induced accident in their lifetime

I've only had a couple of drinks

Arts & Entertainment The Eagle’s Eye

Monday, 02.10.14

page 10

Opportunities arise

Events

Major music ensemble performs on campus Orchestra students receive chance of a lifetime with Austin Symphony Adelaida Villegas Staff Reporter Senior Melvin Romero has dreamed of performing with a featuring San Francisco Symphonic Orchestra when he was in the 6th grade.

“Symphony music has more contrast and potential for beauty,” Romero said.

Romero’s dream came true when he was selected to play trombone with the Austin Symphony in mid January in the Akins Theater. He and a few of his fellow orchestra and band students such as senior Jesus Aldape who plays the violin and senior Jeremiah Silguero who plays the oboe were selected to play with the symphony.

“I feel very honored and a bit surprised that I was selected to perform with them,” Silguero said. “To play with professionals was a great experience. It was an opportunity that doesn’t come around often.”

Aldape said he was very grateful and excited to play with the orchestra because not everybody has the chance to.

Orchestra teacher Cathy Bennett picked all of the orchestra students that performed with the Austin Symphony.

“I chose the orchestra students. They consisted of my CHAMPS Quartet. They all deserved the opportunity to perform,” Bennett said. “(I’m) proud to showcase our school and many talented musicians.”

Bennett also gave positive feedback on the whole event and how her musicians carried themselves through out the performance.

“They did fantastic. I was so proud of how they handled professional musicians,” Bennett said “My favorite part of the performance was watching our Akins students perform and for me to be part of the audience.”

Conductor Peter Bay also praised the students’ performances.

“The students were fabulous. They were very attentive and reacted to the music very well. They were very well prepared,” Bay said. “Akins is a great school.”

One of the special audience members there was Dr. Charles Akins he said he was impressed with the students’ musical abilities.

“I thought the performance was outstanding. It was a joy for me to see those youngsters come out. They look so pro-

Savannah Garza

In action Senior Jeremiah Silguero plays his oboe with the Austin Symphony Orchestra in the Akins Journey Theater.

fessional and they look so good and I’m so proud of them,” Akins said.

In addition to the experience that the performers gained, the event also opened up cultural doors to the students in the audience he said.

“I think that this is an excellent opportunity for the kids to appreciate the cultural values of school and learning to appreciate all forms of culture and all forms of music. Akins said and I hope that the Austin Symphony will continue to do this through out our school system.

Anti Valentines V S Valentines

Opinions

Love exhibition

Adelaida Villegas Staff Reporter Valentines day is the most romantic day of the whole year. Guys and girls exchange gifts they bought for their loved ones or just friends to express their feelings for them.

Strangely, the origins of Valentines cally, love over coming death.

Celebrating Valentines Day became popular three hundred years after Jesus died. On February 14th Valentine was beheaded because he continued to perform marriages for secret young lovers.

Before St Valentine was ordered to be beheaded by Roman Emperor Claudius, he sent a card to the one he was in love with, the jailer’s daughter, signing it “your valentine”.

Ever since then sending cards became a tradition for some people. Estimated 1 billion Valentines cards are sold each year.

Valentines day isn’t only about love;

it can be about kindness and being thankful for someone in your life like a family member or a really good friend.

People misinterpret it for the wrong reasons. They think that it’s all about the couples but it can really be for anyone who enjoys it.

It brings joy and happiness to me, not just because of all the gifts, but because everyone around is always pumped and excited.

The tradition typically features is roses, chocolate and bears but I think when people get creative and do their own thing its even more special and romantic to their partner.

Speaking from experience I’m in a relationship and to me I wouldn’t care if I didn’t get anything. It’s the thought that counts.

I think that’s one thing that people tend to forget. They assume that they have to spend a bunch of money so they are repelled by the materialism.

Amanda Livingston Staff Reporter February 14th: the day when couples show their love for one another by buying other cheesy sweet things.

Many people treat it as a day strictly for couples. As if you need to be in a relationship with someone to be happy and celebrate.

I don’t mean to sound like the Grinch of Valentines Day, but after a while it gets a bit old.

It’s great when you have someone in your life to feel special. I’ve been there.

However having had only one before, I’ve also become independent and content with not having a Valentine.

You should love yourself and be Marissa Sosa able to feel won-

derful on your own.

Saying someone is “your other half” is sweet and all, but what are you going to do when you’re waiting for that other half to show up? You can’t just spend every Valentines Day being upset that you’re single.

There’s no promise that you’ll marry who ever you are romantically involved with on this Valentines Day. Only about 20-33 percent of people marry their high school sweet heart.

That being said, it’s not bad to enjoy Valentines Day with the one you’re dating, or involved with. I just think that it shouldn’t be made into such a big deal, as people make it out to be.

You’re the only person who will always be there with you every step of the way. So be happy with who you are and be happy being independent.

I agree with Mandy Hale when in her book The Single Woman: Life, Love, and a Dash of Sass, when she writes, “Hope for love, pray for love, wish for love, dream for love… but don’t put your life on hold waiting for love.”

Embrace your single status, and love yourself for everything you are.

Cont. “HELP” pg. 1

Battle of the Bands contest hopes to carry on tradition the contest every year for students to express their musical talents at

school.

“It is a chance for students to showcase their abilities,” Horowitz said.

Horowitz enjoys the contest because it gives students a chance to be seen in ways other than someone who sits in a classroom.

“I am most looking forward to seeing some of my own students that I’ve seen at the school in a different light,” Horowitz said. “Sometimes as a teacher you only know somebody as a student or who takes notes in

class. It is really cool to get to see a kid in their element, doing something that they love. Not that they don’t like my class. Just joking.”

Senior Santana Gutierrez was a previous student of Horowitz’s and participated in Battle of the Bands for the past two years.

Gutierrez performed with his previous band Sinsored alongisde senior Pierce Pruitt and alumni Michael Loera and Francisco De La Rosa.

“It’s a great experience for bands that are just starting out or have never played in front of a crowd before,” Gutierrez said.

Another reason people come to see the talent is because of the charity work that is involved.

“The Battle of the Bands is a fundraiser. This year it is to support the different Arts and Humanities programs at the school,” Horowitz said. “It is a way for students to get some performance experience in font of a live audience, exposure for their acts, get practice playing, and to help support some of the programs here at Akins.”

Livingston, who participated in the 2010-2011 and

2012-2013 battles, wishes to see it continue.

Livingston’s band Capture year and donated the proceeds

from the contest to the Health Alliance for Austin Musicians.

“I would love to see the Battle of the Bands continue, with it’s charitable and open format.”

Livingston said. “It also gives students a chance to perform.”

Monday, 02.10.14 Theater

Arts & Entertainment

page 11

The Eagle’s Eye

Delayed show

First musical of the year comes to a sudden halt, faces obstacles

The fault in our stars

Review

Mark Vallejo Staff Reporter

Fault in Our Stars

The Fault in Our Stars

What’s wrong Charlie?

Senior Christian Martinez performs alongside his castmates at dress rehearsal for the production of “Youre A Good Man Charlie Brown”. Martinez plays Charlie Brown, the lead role in the play.

Complications postpone Vallejo’s first production Marissa Sosa Entertainment Editor

Looking For Alaska The Fault in Our Stars You’re a Good Man Charlie Brown

The Fault in Our Stars

Review Film shocks audiences

SeaWorld documentary raises attention about plight of orcas Abraham Alvarado Staff Reporter

Eagle Vogue Jacqueline Rodriguez News Editor

Jacob Sanchez Visual Editor

Ebone Bagnall

Christopher Ashlock

Sports The Eagle’s Eye Basketball

Monday, 2.10.14

page 12

Alternate endings

Girls finished, Boys still fight for a shot

Girls’ struggled to end strong and miss playoffs, Boys’ still fighting for playoff berth Tyler Derickson Staff Reporter The boys and girls squads for the Akins varsity basketball teams have kept their seasons rolling along while knocking off their opponents left and right on their way to winning records.

The boys team which is currently at 16-12 (4-6 in district), and the girls, who are currently 19-7 (3-6 in district) have put together some of the most successful teams in recent memory at Akins.

The teams’ hard work and dedication pushed them to playoff contentions for both squads. The girls came close to obtaining a playoff spot but fell short due to a scenario that didn’t fall in their favor.

“The encouragement the players shared amongst each other propelled them to play hard and play for each other on the court and it led to a great season overall,” girls Varsity Coach Helena Martin said.

The boys had their ups

and downs this season, but they have assembled a playoff caliber team according to the players.

“Our season had a lot of high and low points in it, but we will hopefully have a playoff spot waiting for us and we hope to bring back a district championship to Akins,” senior center Marcale Lotts said.

Senior leadership was a key contributor to these teams’ success as they played the lead roles this season.

“The senior leadership on and off the court was evident and it helped motivate everyone else to play hard,” senior forward Domonique Featherstone said.

With the end of the seagirls accomplished many of their goals and exceeded many expectations.

“I wanted to go out knowing that I did everything I could to contribute and help the team on and off the court and I played better than I ever thought I could this year,” senior guard Me-

Erika Senger

Setting up the high post

gan Martinez said.

Both varsity teams started off strong in out of district play and their success carried on until near the end

of the season where a few district losses held them out of the playoffs.

But the team looks to bounce back as both squads

Soccer

still have some athletes that will be back for the next season.

“The team for next year will be a strong one with a

good foundation of returning players so I am not worried about the team in the future,” Lotts said.

Season begins

Wrestlers qualify to play Soccer season heating up; for the state championship teams find improvement Tyler Derickson Staff Reporter

Four

Akins

athletes

state wresting championship this weekend.

Anna Becerra, Alex Boles, Austin Boles and Natalie Chapman all advanced past regionals to qualify for the event.

Austin Boles 36-0 during the season (5-0 in district) and Anna Becerra 25-9 in season and (3-0 in district) were the champions in their respected weight classes during the regional tournament.

“When your sitting in the No. 1 spot at the state in your weight class there is a lot of pressure,” senior Austin Boles said.

“It’s good pressure, but if you let it get to you it can turn into bad pressure and qualifying for state is about taking that pressure and turning it into something useful,” senior Austin Boles said.

The team is preparing for state during the interval before the tournament starts. Practicing for the start of the tourney is essential for these contestants.

“We are practicing vigorously and drilling and conditioning 10 times harder than we usually do, but it’s getting us ready for our competition,” junior Anna Becerra said.

The season has been one of the many sports success stories at Akins

this year as the wrestling program sent the most contestants to state this year than they have in any year before.

“Everyone that is heading to state is dedicated and are hard workers because they always give it 110 percent on the mats,” Wrestling coach Roy Tambunga said.

The state competition will feature some of the best wresters from all over the state but the team is ready for everything coming their way and they look to walk out on top.

“When I go into a match I get my mindset saying, ‘I’m the best in the state,’” Boles said. “And when I tell myself this I start wrestling like it.”

Kenny Jennings

Dodging the tackle

Kenny Jennings Sports Editor Early in the season, the boys and girls soccer teams are both off to strong starts.

The boys have a 7–4–2 record, while the girls have a 5–5 record. There’s no doubt Akins soccer is playing with a brand new intensity this season, leading to their success early on.

“We have lots of talent on this team. We’re getting better everyday,” said senior defender Fred Blackman.

Although the boys recently suffered a tough 4–0 loss to Westlake, they’ve found success in tournaments.

“We’ve done really well in tournament play and it brings us closer together, which is more important than winning,” said senior forward Jordan Acosta.

The teams’ most memorable game was against rival, Lehman, a game that resulted in a 1–0 win for the Eagles.

“A lot of us were hurt, but

we still won off our bench,” Blackman said. “It really brought us closer as a family.”

Despite some recent misfortunes, the team has been playing above par, and seeks to improve throughout the rest of the season to make the playoffs.

“We’re planning on getting far into the playoffs this year,” senior defender Toby Wilhelm said.

“We’ve never gotten past offs,” Acosta said. “Hopefully we can this year.”

The boys’ team still has more than half of their games left to play. The team’s next two games are against Bowie today, and Anderson on Feb. 18, both games are at Burger Stadium at 7:30 p.m.

The girls’ team has struggled with a 5–5 record, Copa Akins tournament.

“I hope we can win more games this year. We’re bonding well,” said sophomore defender Samaria Ramos. “We’re becoming like

sisters and are going to stick together.”

The Lady Eagles have been working toward suctice.

“We do a lot of running, ball control, and corner kicks,” junior forward Paula Vuorela said.

In spite of a few struggles, the girls are still improving over past year’s performance.

“The team has bonded over the years by bringing each other up and pushing each other no matter what happens during a game,” said senior left back Magaly Reyes. “It helps gain chemistry.”

With more than 70 percent of their district games left, the girls still have plenty of time to make up for their two district losses.

The girls’ next two games are against Bowie on Tuesday at Burger Stadium at 7:45p.m., and Anderson Feb. 18 at Noack #1 at 7:45 p.m.

Monday, 02.10.14 Football

Sports

page 13

The Eagle’s Eye

Athlete feature

Eagle’s football star earns scholarship Senior Lowery is awarded a two year full ride scholarship to Tyler Junior College Marissa Sosa Entertainment Editor What’s next? What kind of opportunity’s are going to be handed to every individual?

Who is going where?

These are the questions on the minds of seniors as they prepare to graduate and move on past high school. The same is true for athletes like Tedrick Lowery, also know as Teddy, who has had a remarkable year on the He played multiple positions, including wide receiver, running back, quarterback and safety.

“It felt like freshman through junior year I wasn’t really doing anything or giving my all but when it came time to the summer going into senior year I put in work and I blew up,” Lowery said. “Look at me now if feels good knowing my name is getting out there.”

Lowery was also apart of the varsity basketball team this year, but basketball was just for the fun of it because he has been on the team since freshman year.

“I’m still in basketball because why stop now? I’m not really worried about its as much, my main focus is football,” Lowery said. “I mean come on look at me, I’m not a 6’7 guy. Football is my passion, but I have love for basketball too.”

Football is everything, scholarships startNavarro College also offered lowery a full-ride scholarship during football season but Lowery didn’t take the opportunity to leave more room for other colleges to offer their deals.

Tyler Junior College offered him a full ride scholarship. It’s a two-year college located in Tyler, Texas and one of the top 10

Track

junior colleges in the nation. and a half he could switch to a Division One university. The college hasn’t determined his position on the football team just yet, but if it were up to him he would play safety or runter lowery will be an Apache Indian. Lowery Signed to TJC on Feb. 5th.

Lowery’s dream college is Texas Christian University, but because of his GPA and grades he didn’t qualify. However, as soon as to switch to TCU and would play any position TCU would give, but the goal is to play safety.

Lowery’s achievements will not only go down in Akins history but in his own as well.

He won four awards this year, including First Team All State defense, one of the best defense backs in all of state, honorable mention runner back, All District defense, and MVP Offense for district.

“I’m proud of him, if anybody deserves to succeed it’s him,” senior Joesph Featherstone said. “He put in the most work this summer and I can’t wait to see what the future holds for him.”

Lowery is supported and loved by many, but now that he is entering adulthood, decisions are left for the one who is living the life.

Lowery’s mom Shameka Arnold is leaving all the decision making up to his best judgment. All she is there for is to have his back and watch her son become the man she raised, she said.

“Things are starting to get real. I’m one college,” he said. “On one of my sides of family I’m like the best thing to happen to

Kenny Jennings

Patient running Senior halfback Teddy Lowery takes advantage of a block from senior wide reciever Joseph

them. It’s an accomplishment but I’m still not done. There’s still plenty more to come,” Lowery said.

Lowrey has high hopes for his future as

an athlete in college.

Reaching for more, soaring to excellence, to the next big part in life.

Preview

Track team anticipating rewarding season this spring Isiah Strange Staff Reporter Track means different things to different athletes.

For some it’s a chance to show how fast they are or how long they can jump.

And for still others it’s a training sport that helps them condition their bodies for football, basketball or volleyball season.

Regardless of the reason students compete in track, it gives athletes a chance to reach personal and competitive goals.

“Track gives me pain, but it also gives me love, health and friends,” sophomore Jermaine Thomas said.

Junior Claudia Sims said she participates in track to stay in shape. and to maybe also help me prepare to go into the mili-

tary,” she said.

This sport can really allow a person to build themselves, and form into something they’ve always wanted to be or plan on being.

The boys team wasn’t the only team with district champs. The girls relay team which is a statewide meet that brings together competitors across Texas.

scheduled Feb. 22, the track team has a lot to prepare for, which is why they’ve started earlier than normal. year, since we started practicing ahead of Bowie, which is normally our rival,” junior Michael Salas said.

With some district winning players, they need all the practice they can get to stay ahead and win just as the years before.

“We had two district champs last year on the guys team, one in the high jump, and another in the 200 meters,” Coach Chris Thomas said.

Texas Relays,” said coach Misty Lindsey.

Texas Relays is one of the biggest events for any track team, as students compete against other high school and college track teams all around the world Of course, that’s not the only thing the track team is looking forward to making it to this year.

“My goal is to make it Isiah Strange

Hurdle practice Senior Gaerity Sachs works on his verticle jump by leaping this Friday.

haven’t before, but that would be an exciting experience,” said junior Mariah Stewart.

There are over 60 track

4QSJOH

members, guys and girls, and they’re all competing for the win, and almost everyone has set goals for them to accomplish.

“Track means pushing yourself past the limit you’ve set for yourself,” Thomas said.

Track goes beyond just running and exercising. It’s a tough physical and mental challenge that tests athletes to push their limits. cial,” Sims said. “It lets me build my core, and challenge myself, while learning discipline and focus.”

Junior James Houston said track takes a lot of commitment and dedication to be successful.

“I love track,” he said. “I love competing, and doing the relays with my team. It really keeps me in shape and helps me get faster.”

Photo Essay The Eagle’s Eye

Monday, 02.10.14

page 14

Varsity basketball teams strive hard for playoffs Marisol Gomez Photo Editor The 2013-2014 basketball season was a roller coaster for both the boys and girls teams as they both started off strong and had their weak points and bad games.

“I believe we could have done a lot better, but I also think it was a good, strong season,” senior Gilbert Briones said.

The boys started off the season well winning against Crockett, Lehman and Bowie. They didn’t keep up the winning streak though, as of Thursday their record before playing Austin High for the secgood enough. have done better in district,” he said.

The girls basketball team started off the season strong as well, as “I enjoyed being able to play with my girls for my last season and to have done so well,” senior Brianna Ashley said. playoffs beating Lake Travis in their last district game but will not be able to go because Austin High did not lose their last district game which would have been the girls only chance of possibly making playoffs. do according to the players from both teams is to keep working hard and improve so that next year will be a better season. nior Jerome Scaturro said “we just have to focus and be ready to work hard and long for what we want.”

Both teams feel that there is plenty room for improvement and aren’t looking to settle for where their season has ended.

Marisol Gomez

Teamwork Junior Jerome Scaturro looks to pass the ball over a Bowie player to senior Teddy Lowey. “We didn’t really play like a team this year, and when we do, we’ll play better,” Scaturro said. The second district game against Bowie was a close game that ended in defeat when Bowie got ahead in the last quarter.

Waiting for the rebound Senior Ashley Lopez waits anxiously for the ball to hit the rim so she can get the rebound for her team. “We have a great chemistry amoung the players this year,” Lopez said. The girls did everything they could to try and gain the victory against Manor.

Focused free throw Senior Marcale Lotts focuses on the basket as the crowd anxiously waits for him to shoot his freethrow. “We just have to play more as a team and I feel like we’d have a better season,” Lotts said. The shot.

Defense Senior Zazil De La Vega gets down and ready to play intense defense against Manor who has the ball. “I’m happy with how the season went, but I do feel like we could have done a lot better and can use improvment,” De La Vega said.

Marisol Gomez

Suspense on the sideline Players and coaches watch in suspense as the close game agains Bowie drags on. The score stayed close the entire game with both teams pulling ahead at one point, but the energy in the stands stayed up the entire time. “The only way we can improve for next year is to not take days off, and just continue working hard,” junior come in second or third in district then we will have improved since last year, but I’d like it if we would’ve done even better.”

Marisol Gomez

Looking to pass Senior Gilbert Briones looks for a teamate to pass to as Akins Bowie. “We really let the Bowie game slip out of our hands in the end, but we fought hard and it was a good game,” Briones said. The audience was on their feet the entire second half of the game when the score began to get close and their were signs of possible Eagle defeat.” I feel like the season went by way too fast but we are in a really good positions to be able to make playoffs.”

Marisol Gomez

Control of the ball Senior Brianna Ashley brings the ball back from Manor’s side to try and score some points for the Lady Eagle’s basketball team.

“I think we had a good season because we had great communication with one another and worked together well,” Ashley said. “The most memorable game this season were the games at the Gonzales tournament because we played so well and won the championship.” The girls started the season off strong in state.

In-Depth The Eagle’s Eye

Monday, 2.10.14

page 15

How to: Valentine's Day

What to do when you’re alone [

Savannah Garza Editor-In- Chief Love is in the air as Valentines Day approaches and is in full effect on campus.

This one-day of the year calls for candy

tine to save the day.

“I’d make it a do-it-yourself basket in and drinks.” tines Day in. like to spend the holiday at.

“I’d take him to my favorite spot at Bar-

Teresa Grumbles said. “It’s only one day a

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“One Piece marathon and play League of Legends.”

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that special someone. embedded in this “hallmark holiday” too.

“Watch movies at home and bake something.”

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said. “Or I’d take my valentine to my favor-

much you love them not just one day a year.

“Order take out and watch

[

“I’d Invite all my single friends and tell them to bring [ “I would play video games something sweet, tissue boxes, all day.” and movies.”

- Sabrina Padella

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“I’d Watch movies the whole day.”

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“I’d do what I do every year; buy myself cheap chocolate and sleep early.”

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“If I see a happy couple, I’ll go up to them and be like “How could you do this to me, I knew you were cheating on me.”

dateless and opt out of cliché activities.

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yourself- that you love them.

Places for couples on Valentine’s Day

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A Mystery Dinner, which lets you find clues and the killer, is a different way to spend the evening with your valentine. You can purchase your tickets at www.dinnerdetective.com.

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If you absolutely have to go see a movie with your valentine, go to the Alamo Drafthouse and enjoy dinner and a movie at the same time.

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Ice skating or roller skating rinks provide a great way to get your heart rate up on Valentine's day. You'll have a fun date and a great work out rolled into one.

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If you want a more romantic night, go hike up the 360-Bridge loop cliff view located on Capital of Texas highway. Make sure to bring materials for a small picnic with you so that you and your valentine can enjoy watching the sunset.

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Valentine's Day Video Scan the QR code to view 0the Valentine's Day video and Christian Hernandez. thew Lopez.

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Photo Essay The Eagle’s Eye

Monday, 2.10.14

page 16

Boles boys battle for a state title Marisol Gomez Photo Editor

Among the four Akins wrestlers who have made it to state, one pair in particular stands out from the pack.

Cousins Austin and Alex the state competition that will take place this weekend. They have trained and wrestled for years to prepare for this moment. In just a few days they work has paid off.

“To me wrestling isn’t just a sport it’s a lifestyle that I have come to both love and hate at the

Photots by Marissa Sosa

Cousins go head to head Seniors Austin and Alex Boles go head to head as they train together for the state championship. ”As a wrestler we

same time,” Austin said.

The Boles boys both attend two practices, one for

wrestling at school and one for state at a gym called 3F in Lakeway.

“Making state is a huge accomplishment on my part, a couple of years ago I never would’ve even thought I’d make it,” Alex said.

For the Boles boys, wrestling is a large commitment.

It’s time consuming. There is no time for friends, or fun and not a lot for family either. It’s strictly wrestling all the time.

“There’s a rule about commitment: either you’re in or you’re not,” Alex said.

“There’s no life in-between.”

The boys are constantly working at their goal and do so without complaining.

“I know what’s worth and I am more than willing to put in all the hard work, blood, sweat and tears because it’s what I want,” Austin said.

The boys are in two different weight classes and are both looking to take a state title home at the state wrestling competition.

Pinning the opponent down his opponent and tries to pin him during practice.

“Wrestling has made me a better person and a betstarted from nothing and cause of how hard and dilipractice.” Austin practices twice daily.

Keeping a strong stance stance strong as he tries to get out of his opponents hold. “Wrestling is dedica-

you with life by setting up a life easier.” Alex is currently Training together Alex helps Austin build up his strength during wrestling practice by adding weight while Austin bearcrawls across the wrestling push myself on and off the tin and Alex both depend on each other to push one another.

Flinging the opponent shoulder as they train together and prepare for their trip to state. “When you”re sitting at number one in the ing at you expecting you to when you let it get to you it could turn into bad presgood practice.

Boles boys take over -