The Eagle's Eye; Issue 6, Vol. 12; Akins High School

Softball Pg. 7

Eagle’s Eye The

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“Everything That Concerns You”

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Austin, Texas

Events Lasting memories

Seniors Recognition

Prom night marks end of year

Celebration honors college ready students

Marissa Sosa

Ready for success Seniors read a letter from ad visor Sarah Simmons during the “Senior Breakfast.”

Eligible seniors go to breakfast bash Elianne Candelario Staff Reporter Heitzel Alvarenga

Crowned winners Seniors Justin Rosales and Amy Avila are crowned prom king and queen. “Winning prom queen was a dream come true,” Avila said.

Dance attendees taken to a night at the Japanese Garden Jacqueline Rodriguez Staff Reporter Dresses glimmering in the red and purple to remember. Prom is the one night seniors get to dress their best and let loose on the “I walked into the convention center and saw everything all put together, it was more than what I thought it was going to be,” senior Arisbeth Gomez said.

With a night full of memories, months of planning and preparation were put into the event.

“We spent a lot of time fundraising, that Pineda said. “Last year we raised money from the dodgeball tournament and of course

Diamonds

Blue and Gold night.”

Pineda was part of the prom committee and admits that even though planning the dance was a long process, all the hard work led to a memorable night.

“All of the hard work the members of the prom committee and our sponsors paid off,” Pineda said. “It turned out to be a lovely evening and everyone who attended seemed to enjoy themselves.”

With long preparation, the evening lived “Prom was everything I had hoped it’d be,” senior Justin Rosales said. “It was a great event and the perfect way to end senior year.”

Rosales also won the title of Prom King along with Amy Avila winning the title of Prom Queen.

“When they announced my name I was

grateful,” Rosales said. “ It was an honor to win and I got really sentimental over the fact that many of my peers voted for me.” crowned Prom Queen.

“Winning prom queen was the best feeling ever. I was so happy,” Avila said. “It was best time of my life, I’ll remember it forever.”

Along with the King and Queen, many others enjoyed the festivities in many ways.

“For me it was really awkward because I’m not much of dancer but I had a great time with all of my friends,” senior Sonny Molina said. “My friends made prom worth going because normally I wouldn’t want to go.”

With many emotions and memories, prom was a night to remember.

This year the class of 2013 celebrated their academic accomplishments at a senior breakfast that college advisors Sarah Simmons and Yvonna Crippa threw for them.

“Ms. Simmons and I wanted to congratulate the seniors hard work with breakfast tacos,” Crippa said.

To attend the breakfast, seniors must have been accepted to a four-year college and submitted their FAFSA or accepted to ACC. “I was in the college and career center enough to get my stuff done on time,” senior Ariel Machuca said.

Although Simons and Crippa have done most of the work for the breakfast, they’ve had some help from large companies as well to sponsor the event.

Some of the sponsors for this senior breakfast were; Bill Millers Bar-BQ, Tiffs Treats, HEB, Target, SAMS, Bed Bath and Beyond, and Amy’s Ice Cream.

“I think it’s awesome that our advisors got these companies to sponsor the breakfast,” senior Bobby Morris said.

To tie in the celebration, students had a special guest that attended the breakfast, Dr. W. Charles Akins.

Farewell performance

Dancers break a leg at hollywood-themed performance The two-night performance included “Senior Night” which had many of the seniors

This years Spring Show hosted by the Diamond Dazzlers, would be the last time the seniors will dance at Akins as apart of a team.

The overall theme of the Spring Show was, “A Night at the Movies”, as chosen by the parents on the booster club.

The Spring Show was not only just another performance put on by the Diamonds, but also a lot of effort had been put into the production as a whole.

“The Spring Show is important because it’s the time for us to be able to show the school what we can do,” senior Diamond Nicole Castro said.

according to Castro.

“I felt sad and a little relief,” Castro said.

“Sad that it’s all over, relieved that I was able to stick with it for so long.”

Castro wasn’t the only senior upset about celebrating her last night together with the team.

“I was pretty sad,” First Lieutenant senior Victoria Galicia said. “Knowing that it was my last performance as a Diamond Dazzler made me tear up afterwards.”

The seniors had a hard time accepting the fact that many, would no longer be dancing together but the memories will stay amongst each other forever according to Galicia.

Yale, Princeton, Harvard, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, and Stanford University.

Imagine being wanted by each of these prestigious universities in the United States.

This is the case for one senior on campus. Senior and valedictorian, Nathanial Buescher, has been olina

inside

“Dance was basically my life for the past three years,” Galicia said. “Since I was a rookie, I have had lots of memories. It was never forget.”

The performances were a time where the whether it was a team routine, or a solo.

“Senior night for me was dancing my heart out,” Diamond Dazzler Captain senior Emily Steger said. “I wanted my last performance to be meaningful and a remembrance for myself.”

Performing is a passion for many of the dancers on the team, it’s been a learning process according to many of the Diamonds.

See “Spring Show” pg. 6

Senior makes big decision Prom versus anti-prom

Sonny M

the insight

Stephanie Zuniga Student Life Editor

accepted to each of these schools.

Buescher visited each university within a three weeks time span.

With pros and cons to each school, from location to what majors they offer, Buescher had to consider several factors. Care to know which high ranked university he chose? Find out more on page 5.

Prom isn’t for everyone thing or a cliche moment some might argue. Students that is taken out of proporclash on prom vs anti-prom. tion. Does your stand on Can prom be enjoyable prom agree with them? for everyone?

Is prom worth the a lin For some, trouble of buyo yM nn prom is a night ing a dress, So to remember with friends.

See page 3 for Two stuwhat students dents take think about the stands on whether prom is perience of going a once in a lifetime to prom.

Summer lovin’ perform. They danced to Summer Nights.

5

things to know

Boston Bombing... pg. 3 Cinco de Mayo show... pg. 4 Ballet Folklorico... pg. 5 Senora Tortuga... pg. 6 Prom photo essay... pg. 8

Vol.12 No. 6

Opinions...pg 2, 3 News...pg 4 Student Life...pg 5 Entertainment...pg 6 Sports...pg 7 Photo Essay...pg 8

May 28, 2013

Opinions The Eagle’s Eye

Tuesday, 5.28.13

page 2

Plan for seniors helps student readiness EdiTOrial In the beginning of the year, the administration decided on a “Basket of Measures” to address areas of need in the school. Included in these measures was a goal to raise FAFSA applications, along with increasing the number of seniors applying to college. These goals were met due to the efforts of leaders of the College and Career Center, the aid of teachers, and administrators.

Throughout the year the CCC staff has pushed seniors to rise above expectations in many ways. College advisor Sarah Simmons and GenTX advisor Ivanna Crippa have spent numerous hours aiding the senior class. The CCC puts on several information nights, college visits, giveaways and other events like the Senior Breakfast, along with helping presented the senior class with all the knowledge to apply and prepare for college. Without dedicated people like the CCC staff, the Class of 2013 would have not met the goals set earlier this year.

On campus, administrators have put a lot of effort into coordinating times for students to participate in college activieducation. Throughout the year, administration has allowed college preperation processes to take class time. Events that have been included in class time like visits to the CCC have presented seniors with valuable extra time. Other events that have been held during class time like the Senior Breakfast have been positive by giving seniors a goal to work for.

A large part of the push for 2013 excellence was teacher involvement. Seniors spent time in the CCC and library with Social Studies and English classes working on ApplyTexas, college, and FAFSA applications along with a multitude of surveys. Teachers have also been helpful by allowing students to visit the CCC and encouraging students to apply.

Through events like the Senior Breakfast, the administration and teaching staff have created numerous oppertunities to increase collegiate readiness and a great example of those programs is the Lexile Reading Program. This program has the raised reading level of many seniors, when in turn benready level.

As a staff we believe that the success of the Class of 2013 is due to the involvement of the CCC, administration and teachers. and we applaud those efforts.

Opinion

Relationships

Long distance relationships are complicated but worth it looks, social status, etc.

The reality is that long distance relationthe couple. If a relationship between two people doesn’t work out at a long distance it doesn’t necessarily mean that one person or

Caitlin Starks Opinions Editor Multiple times over the school year I have heard people say that long distance relationships can never work out because there isn’t the same level of physicality as regular dating.

I’ve also heard people say that long distance relationships are the best kind of relationship because you are able to meet and

of circumstance.

Just because a long distance relationship is hard doesn’t mean that it won’t work out.

Long distance relationships are probably the hardest to be in, especially for young people.

In a long distance relationship there is a lot more trust required for the relationship to work out. You have to trust that your partner will remain faithful, and trust that whatever

happens is for the best.

It’s true that a lot of long distance relationships don’t work out. I believe this is because people start to take each other for granted when they are not physically around each other often.

Also, in long distance relationships people will decide that they cannot wait any longer I don’t think that long distance relationships and regular relationships are so different in the physicality department though.

Even if you can’t hug or hold hands there are still available programs like Skype, any form of email or social media, and even Youtube, that allow you to see and interact with your partner through the distance.

When people say that long distance relationships are easier because you get to know someone’s personality instead of looks, soon my face no matter where I am.

Because these people aren’t thinking about the fact that eventually you will have to meet your partner and make plans for the future. relationship forever and these people make it seem like that’s exactly what needs to be done to be happy.

If you can withstand being in a long distance relationship for a long time it is a sign of true strength and the magnitude of the feelings that you have for your partner.

The Eagle’s Eye Editorial Policy Graduating Editors Dez Moore Haleigh Wagner Ben Livingston Alex Herrera Graduating Staff Andrea Barrera-Rodriguez Elianne Candelario Harley Cruz Francisco De La Rosa Cristina Gonzalez John Hauser Max Kosunik Sonny Molina Luisa Veronica Talamas Christopher Yanez returning/New Editors Savannah Garza Jacqueline Rodriguez Marissa Sosa Caitlin Starks Hannah Kerns Stephanie Zuniga Marisol Gomez Matthew Lopez returning Staff Tyler Derickson Maria Moreno-Gonzales Mark Vallejo Christian Hernandez advisor Michael Reeves

is published six times a year, generally once per six weeks for the school’s students, staff and community.

The Eagle’s Eye is an open forum for student expression. The Eagle’s Eye is not reviewed by school administration prior to distribution, and the advisor will not act as a censor. Content represents the views of the The Eagle’s Eye will work to avoid bias and/or favoritism. We will strive to make our coverage and content meaningful, timely and interesting to news and will be held to a high standard of quality.

We will make every effort to avoid printing libel, obscenities, innuendo and material that threatens to disrupt the learning process or is an invasion of privacy. We will avoid electronic manipulation that alters the truth of a photograph.

Staff editorials represent the opinion of the editorial board arrived at by discussion and will not be bylined. Bylined articles are the opinion of the Eye staff or administration as a whole.

The Eagle’s Eye welcomes reader input. Please send any letters, articles, to 10701 South First Street Austin, Texas 78748 or drop them off in room 223 with advisor Michael Reeves or an editor. Letters must be signed, will not necessarily publish all letters recieved and reserve the right to edit for length and clarity.

The Eagle’s Eye does not necessarily endorse the products or services found in advertisements from local businesses.

Organizations

Cristina Gonzalez Staff Reporter Every morning I wake up not looking forward to school. I always take forever to get ready, except for the days that I don’t That’s the reason why I’m usually late to the bus. Ugh. The school bus. If there were something I really hate, that would be it. most every morning praying to Jesus that I don’t miss the bus. Most of the time I don’t. Instead I get there all sweaty and out of breath, while freshmen stare me down as I walk to the end of the bus aisle.

The road to school is bumpy as sophomore girls yapp about who they like. Once I get to school I walk the hallways expressionless because honestly mornings give me nothing to smile for. That’s why people always think I’m angry. No matter, I brush my hand over my shoulder and continue walking.

A usual day involves a random girl interrogating me in the restroom or toilets These always awkward and often embarrassing moments are what make my day interesting and what shape my humor.

Most people don’t get my humor though, why I often think, “does anyone get me?”

The answer to that is; no. The only people that do are my friends. That’s all I need. part of my daily routine, but I try my hardest to not let that affect me. I’m well aware of whom I am and what I want to pursue.

I might not be the prom queen or the star athlete, but I know my future holds something better for me than what my peers think it does.

I feel a breeze as I get off and the boys behind me snicker. I realize that my skirt

NSPA ILPC/UIL TAJE 2011- All-AmerBronze Star Superior CSPA Award Coverage 2011 - Silver Medal ican w/4 Marks of Distinction 2006 2005 2012 - Gold Medal 2012- SA Conf.

2007 2008 7th Place Best in 2011 Show 2012 2010 - 2nd Sweepstakes 2013

with embarrassment. My walk home is not of shame, it is of success. From the outside looking in, my life looks like it sucks.

I know one day my name will be in lights, to put up with this awkward teenage life.

Opinions

Tuesday, 5.28.13

page 3

The Eagle’s Eye

Boston Bombing

Opinion

Boston tragedy stirs student response Tyler Derickson Staff Reporter With the mass hysteria surrounding the Boston marathon-bombing people have come up with far-fetched stories and ridiculous ideas involving what really happened at the marathon.

First off I do not believe that there was any government actions involved with the bombing.

I feel that the Illuminati and the CIA had nothing to do with this event. I think that a couple of foreign terrorists bombed Boston and caused massive destruction to many peoples lives.

There have been many conspiracies of what really happened. Many times people

have claimed the two bombers; brothers Tamerlan Tsarnaev and Dzhokhar Tsarnaev were framed for the incident and were actually innocent.

Many of my peers have the same idea that the Tsarnaev brothers are not innocent. I do not believe they are innocent because the two brothers were loaded up with guns and explosives and seemed to math of the bombing.

The Tsarnaev brothers were caught on camera leaving the bombsite with a backpack that was later found out to be holding explosives.

The brothers threw these explosives out the window at police cars while they were being pursued in a high-speed chase later on in the day.

Dzhokhar Tsarnaev also confessed to the police that the bombing was planned and that both he and his brother were involved in it.

There is no evidence explaining how

Tamerlan Tsarnaev

Dzhokhar Tsarnaev

Name entered in to two different United States Government watch lists in 2011.

In 2011 Russian government requested an investigation of Tsarnaev.

In response Boston FBI agents re-

In the past year, Tsaernev used twitter to talk about terrifying nightmares about murder and destruction. can lifestyle and mindset.

any ties to extremists.

Tsarnaev was extremely overbearing

Opinion

came to becoming an engineer he could cheat but when trying to get into heaven he couldn’t cheat.

they could have been innocent. If they were truly innocent they would have cooperated with police and would have never run away from them.

But with tragic stories such as this there is always an opposition to the popular opinion of the people.

Conspiracy theorists believe that tragedies such as this one were set up by the government to get rid of something they don’t like.

Many conspiracy theorists point at a corrupt government as the main problems for these events, saying that they are behind the disastrous events such as ing.

Akins students have had the idea that an agency or the government was behind the bombings and have covered it up by blaming people for the incident. Students have come up with their own theories that organizations such as the CIA have brain washed citizens to commit crimes such as these to frame them and promote anti-gun laws so that they can have all the guns and take over society.

I feel that theory is inconsistent.I feel that the tragedy in Boston was no set up and there was no framing involved.

There is too much evidence to back up the fact that this incident was planned and thought out by the fact that these brothers were prepared for war against the police with all the weapons they had.

These ridiculous ideas need to stop because the real story of what actually happened will never revealed if a million different rumors are spread out amongst society.

Prom

Students dance around the subject of high school prom friends who plan on going, or they don’t reach the requirements needed to attend.

Those include; no ALC for the school year, no more

Harley Cruz Staff Reporter Prom is known to be the biggest night of a high school student’s life, a night that most will regret if they don’t attend. At least that’s what everyone says, but I disagree.

Fancy limos, dancing with friends and dates while music pulses from the speakers, and the after parties that will continue way into the next morning. ché that comes out of a movie.

I mean, sure it sounds fun and it’s a great time for those who are going, but for others to do.

For one there’s kids who know they won’t prefer the music that will be playing.

It’ll most likely be whatever’s on the top billboards that plays on the radio hundreds of times per day.

Who wants to dance to music they don’t even like? Just doesn’t seem ideal to me.

Others might not have huge groups of

in the spring semester, no fee obligations, must have received credit in six classes last fall and must have passed weeks.

And if there’s any serious misbehavior at the dance of walking the stage for graduation.

Deciding not to go because you may not have a date, enough money, or the end of the world.

It’s not going to be this huge regret that will burden you for the rest of your lives like everyone says.

Prom can be great for lots of people and not be for everyone.

back on my scrapbook and remember how full of energy, excitement, and young I was.

A lot of people get caught up in the idea that they don’t like dancing or that they Cristina Gonzalez Staff Reporter Dresses shimmering in the lights, suit and ties dancing everywhere; this is Prom.

Prom is an annual dance that seniors and a handful of underclassmen get to experience at the end of the school year.

I think prom is a high school experience that we should all go through because it is part of our youth. It’s a blast going to different stores with your friends, as you all look for your fancy attire.

Girls have fun trying on dress after dress and guys laugh as they that they look funny.

I see prom as one of those events that I will look back on when I’m older and say that I had a blast.

I want to look

about that.

Prom is that one night where you and all your friends look good wearing gowns and Who cares if you can’t dance, who cares of you don’t like to dress up, the point is to have fun!

Other people complain that they hate everyone that is going and they’re not popular enough to win prom king or queen. I say who cares. Prom shouldn’t be about popularity contests and no one is going to force anyone else to hang out with people that are not your friends.

It is understandable if you cannot afford to go to prom at all, but if you can I think you should go. It’s not much fun spending your time at home when you can be partying with your friends downtown.

I know ten years from now I’ll look back at the pictures and remember the crazy styles we had or that one crazy song everyone loved, and it will make me smile.

maN ON ThE STrEET Juan Silva 12th

Marisol Garcia 11th

Isiah Strange 10th

Maheen Anjum 9th

Mike Owen Teacher

TOPiC 1: WhErE dO yOu SEE yOurSElf iN 10 yEarS? I see myself graduated, working as a dentist, and having a family of my own whom I would spend all my free time with.

I see myself being a history teacher.

In 10 years, I see myself owning my own business.

I see myself in college studying Biomedical Engineering.

I see myself in 10 years being retired and living in the Caribbean Islands.

TOPiC 2: dO yOu PrEfEr uSiNG a PhONE,SOCial mEdia, Or Email fOr COmmuNiCaTiON? Why? I prefer to use my email since it is I prefer using my phone because I prefer phone communication the most formal way to people actually have to pay attention to because it’s easier to get in touch communicate. what I’m saying instead of doing other with people. things.

I prefer to use my phone. I can do everything with my phone.

I prefer email because I haven’t gotten involved in visual communication.

TOPiC 3:if yOu COuld havE aNy ThiNG iN ThE WOrld, WhaT WOuld yOu WaNT? Why? I would want to not have any kind of problems.

I would want all the pets in the world so that I wouldn’t have to think about how humans mistreat them.

I would want enough money to buy I would want a big house so that I I don’t know. I’m fairly happy right my mom a house. could decorate it and redecorate it now. how I wanted to.

TOPiC 4: WhaT iS yOur favOriTE mEmOry frOm ThiS SChOOl yEar? My favorite memory from this chance to play guitar.

My favorite memory from this school year was when Angelica, Iliana, Aracely and I jammed to old spanish songs.

My favorite memory from this My favorite memory from this My favorite memory was teaching a school year was marching on course sponsored by the University congress with ROTC on Memorial school because I got to meet a lot Day. of new people. chosen to teach it.

TOPiC 5: WhaT arE yOu dOiNG OvEr ThE SummEr brEak? I will probably travel to my hometown.

I’m going to be taking an ACC class, I’m probably going to stay at home doing community service, and working and hang out with my friends and over the summer. sister.

I’m going to visit my grandma.

I’ m going to St. John in the Virgin Islands. And I’m going to take a road trip to Oklahoma.

News The Eagle’s Eye

Tuesday, 05.28.13

Clubs & Organizations

page 4

Latinos Unidos

Students give audience glimpse of culture

Organization presents annual show embracing Mexican holiday Stephanie Zuniga

de Mayo show has astonished Akins students, family, and friends with the history de Mayo.

This years Annual 6th only was all about the dances and the songs that make up a big part in the traditions but also the background originated from and how it expanded throughout the world.

“Our goal is to promote the Latino culture through song, dance and poetry,” Teacher Gina Garcia said, “We want to share the beauty of our Spanish language and encourage students to be proud and maintain their culture.” formance began with the singing stylings of Jasieel Gutierrez performing “El Pastor”.

“Cielo Rojo”

Clubs & Organizations

Prom duties

Seniors

“This year there were about 20 performances we really wanted to grasp the Mexican culture and the eryone why Mexican culture is important,” sophomore Arantzazu Beltran said, Senior Victoria Galicia’s performance to “Pegate” was a hit with the audience feet.

“Her performance was amazing, it was so energetic,” sophomore Veronica Bustamante said. show the “El Grito” contest was held, which is the “cry” for independence that marked the beginning of the Mexican War of Indepenfor a 40 dollar prize, the winner was Blanca Martinez, a member of Latinos Unidos.

“Latinos Unidos is responsible for putting on this show,” Garcia said, “We parout the year such as Blue and

perform but I was excited to perform the songs I had

caroling at nursing homes.”

said.

Members from the Latino

members of Latinos Unidos and those participating in the

-

people from the audience on stage.

with a last dance “El Baile

Achievements

Students gain professional Class of 2013 rewarded experience in photography

experience rather than the school hiring a company,” Most high schools hire professional companies to shoot at proms, which causes a distance in the schools incial photography students great opportunity to experience what professional phoday.

“Shooting high school prom feels really legit,” I am getting places with the Students in the program leading to this opportunity since the beginning of the

briefs

Sonny Molina

lina

As an honor to capture the moment for prom attendees, commercial photography is also using the opportunity to raise money for the program,

y Mo

A night of fun and excitement, tears of both joy and sadness, for many prom is the last chance to say goodbye to friends before graduation.

As special as the moeryone’s eyes in an instant.

Prom attendees should not fear because Akins commercial photography will be there to capture the moment.

Akins commercial photography is a class that specializes in offering future photographers a chance to learn skills that will help them be professional and

better opportunities next year.

“It is a great opportunity to shoot at prom for the program since we can raise money for new equipment

Sonn

Francisco De La Rosa Staff Reporter

really skilled with their photography, and are in need for -

is also a great opportunity for younger members to experience the line of work of a professional photographer and as well what they can expect for there remaining years in the program.

“I feel like its an amazing opportunity to go since I am only a sophomore I will get to see what prom is really like, and the work many photographers perform at Padilla said Prom night is special and quickly goes with the wind, photography will be there to capture the moment of celebration to a new chapter in life for the senior class of 2013.

College ready

Majority of graduating class seeks financial help Elianne Candelario Staff Reporter

est to get seniors to complete their Free Application for Federal Student Aid. offer students their help to complete the FAFSA. pleted the FAFSA this year, Among those was senior

to attend the college of their choice.

“I got a loan of $5500 and a grant of about $2095,” happy to hear that I would money for college.” the full Pell Grant will be “Free money always makes things better,” Gutierrez said.

tonished at the number of students who completed their FAFSA this year.

“This year is a major game changer because majority of seniors completed it,” Simmons said.

The school was awarded a paid-for DJ to play at prom since so many FAFSA’s were submitted. our students for their hard said.

Teams compete for prize Publication excels at state at dodgeball tournament gether for an annual conference and eagerly wait for their school’s name to be said,

The Akins dodgeball tournament returned to campus and opened for groups of any grade to compete The students in the Business Practicum internship hosted the tournament.

“We started with the basketball tournament but while selling tickets I asked students whether they would want a basketball tournament or a dodgeball tournament.” se-

nior Business Practicum student Adam dents chose dodge ball so we decided to switch the tournament to dodge ball.”

To attend the tournament students purchased tickets for $3 to watch players.

The tournament was held on Friday, May 24th during 8th period.

gold star for their work.

The Journalism department excelled at the Interscholastic League Press tition for publications, this past April.

The Eagle’s Eye was awarded a bronze star for Publications that re-

and newspapers in Texas. There were 20 state.

winning as many awards as the other prominent journalism high school programs in our area,” said. “We’re competing with the best of the best.”

With all awards combined, The Eagle’s Eye and Aerie won a record Sonny Molina

represent the top 10 percent of yearbooks

“I’m excited for the potential for next year,” Doerr said.

Student Life The Eagle’s Eye

Tuesday, 05.28.13

page 5

Cultural Foreign Dance

Clubs

Spanish dance club exhibits talent onstage Akins Ballet Folklorico performs for the first time at the 6th Cinco de Mayo show Jacqueline Rodriguez

lido, Izamar Orozco, Alejan-

Vibrant colored dresses and the echo of Spanish mu-

With hard work and preparation put into the dance, students admit participating

performance at the annual

was not only an opportunity to show their fellow peers their culture but also a good time.

“Anytime you get to show your culture to others it’s a great time, especially when you’re surrounded by your friends and being watched -

Ballet Folklorico is a new club at Akins and presents Mexican culture through the art of dance. since February about once a week,” Spanish teacher -

thused about performing.”

Laurel sponsored the club and admits that the students did a good job presenting the Mexican culture through dance and presented their talent to the fullest.

“I think the students did great job performing and did the best they could with what

Alex Herrera

Moving those feet

performance,” Laurel said.

The group performed to “El Son De La Negra” a Spanish song from Jalisco, Mexico. The members who participated in the cultural mores Stephanie Acosta and Blanca Martinez and seniors -

thing about it all would be just getting to experience something new and being The traditional wear of the Ballet Folklorico consists of the men wearing sombreros with a spanish charro suit and the women wearing bright colored ranchero dresses.

“Performing with all of our costumes on was so much fun,” Acosta said.

“Wearing the dresses made and it was great showing the uct after such a long time of practicing.”

With colorful costumes and matching sombreros, students enjoyed the thrill of

being onstage. a minute but then started to get really excited,” Pulido said. “I felt like a million actually performed like that before so it was great experience.” performance, Laurel hopes to keep the ballet Folklorico like to continue the club and hopefully expand and show the different types of Folklorico,” Laurel said. “Mexilet Folklorico and I would like to get representation from each region and show of dance Mexico holds.”

With hard work, dedication, and fun put into the Ballet Folklorico, returning better job next year as well as the upcoming years. lorico and I had such a good time,” Martinez said. “I hope there are more members next year because it’s ence and I hope that we can pull it off next year just as and I can’t wait to see what happens with the club.”

Accomplishments

Spotlight

Honor student makes a closing choice Buescher visits five highly ranked national colleges before making a final decision Chris Yanez Staff Reporter

programs, social life, social interactions, and location of the school,” Buescher said.

senior Nathaniel Buescher

which he describes as re-

The fourth school Buefeeling about was Princeton

was accepted to: The Massachusetts Institute of Technol-

past summer program that he attended there.

Although a familiar school and great school, Nathaniel made the decision to not attend MIT due to the limited classes and interest

Princeton,

his major.

attend next fall. expenses paid for by grants

All

of

and

these

Stanford, schools

grants, they paid for the plane tickets and they paid for all the trains,” Buescher said.

Buescher who plans on ing, narrowed his decision tend by looking for four spe“The four main things I was looking for in a school was

Off Campus

teria from a social life to the “The campus is beautiful, there are so many details in the architecture, it’s inspirational to think that people said. was a great school but felt

that it didn’t call to him. felt like I enjoyed it because of its location in New York

“Princeton is like Yale, it tecture.” Buescher said.

Although the campus was beautiful, Nathaniel just into the school, which was an important for him. found a balance between social life as well as education.

“The students are so diact the same, so I didn’t feel out of place,” Buescher said.

Nathaniel decided to commit to Stanford and put down a deposit that day.

“I was happier there, I they had the programs that I

Top students

wanted,” Buescher said.

ah Simmons are more than enthusiastic for Buescher

-

he has gotten he has earned,”

“I think it was a wonderful opportunity, and I’m su-

Bruescher is truly thankful that he had the opportunity to go see all of these schools.

Art

UIL art displayed in downtown show Cristina Gonzalez Staff Reporter The buzzing murmur of and louder as they discuss the beauty of young artists work being displayed.

Youth Art Month is an annual district art show that showcases the talent of young artists between the grades of kindergarten and 12th grade. It is presented during the month of March.

Checkmate -

“I had excellent pieces,

but we could only pick beto showcase,” art teacher, said.

This years’ art comes from six artists; seniors Britney Stamey, Luisa Talamas, Hernandez, and freshmen; Grath.

Students were glad to present their work.

“It felt good to know my time spent was going to be showcased for people around the state,” senior

because my work is being exhibited,” senior Luisa Talamas said.

One of the art pieces exhibited was of a self-portrait.

“The assignment was to create a portrait of yourself said. “It was just about me making something unique before I graduate.”

According to Talamas the program is a great opportunity for young artists who want to show off their talent.

“It’s great because it ben-

are being exposed to a real world situation where they get to display their art,” Talamas said. “They get their name ‘out there.’ It also benciety.”

Although many people went to the exhibition there were some that could not attend.

“My family couldn’t attend but they got to see it when it was displayed in the The art will be displayed in the library, until the end of the school year.

Arts & Entertainment The Eagle’s Eye

Tuesday, 05.28.13

page 6

Theatre Senora Tortuga

Imagination is key when it comes to kids Touring childrens play teaches lessons about creativity but most importantly about truth Hannah Kerns Staff Reporter Childlike imagination sparks the audiluminates the smiles on everyone’s face.

The story is about a young boy named Pedro, who has a huge imagination. His disapproving mother, Leticia, warns him not to make up stories and to do his share in the family.

“I really like Pedro’s charimagination and spunk,” junior Natalie Arriaga said.

One day a woman named

just wants her son to do the right thing. Each story reveals a moral life lesson. ries, Pedro would dream about the stories,” junior Diana Rosales said. “These dreams would teach him to never lie, to not be selfish and to be thankful for what he has.”

When Pedro would wake up he would have to face the day and try to follow the rules he was taught.

“Pedro had to listen to his mother and do the right things to prevent the dreams from happening in real life,” Rosales said. had found its way to Pedro’s consciousness.

“The stories live on because they contain those valuable lessons placed in an imaginative, sometimes fantastic setting which appeals and delights chil-

if she could come over for dinner, and the Tortuga.

Justin Rosales

“Eurydice” Senior Jose Maldonado takes on the role of The Nasty Interesting Man and The Lord of the Underworld in the play “Eurydice” for the University Interscholastic League competition for theatre. Maldonado played the main character in Senora Tortuga, nine-year old Pedro.

“His personality is very lively and also mischevious,” Maldonado said.

the wishes of mother Leticia, to share imporgel said.

in all the right plawces.”

These stories performed by the cast help children learn good morals.

“Imagination plays a huge part in the way

comes back to tell the children stories about the Cucuy, a river serpent and a mother who

Romero said.

Performers wow the audience at annual Diamonds spring show Cont. “Spring show” pg. 1

said.

-

I wanted it to be done.” her solo.

“I feel like I did my best on my solo,” Galicia said. “I had a lot of emotions and I think that helped me perform even better. Plus I love to dance on a stage, it’s one of the best feelings I can have and I enjoyed it a lot.”

As the year came to an end so did the Diamond season for the seniors, and for some this wouldn’t be the last time we will see many of the seniors performing.

“Hopefully I will try out for the Aggie dance team my

dance after high school. on a company or a college team, and then in four more years I want to try-out for the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders, that’s one of my biggest dreams and goals in life.”

With the dream of perusing dance careers, passion and perseverance is key, according to many of the Diamonds.

“Hopefully I continue to dance in college,” senior Lieutenant Charlotte Nguyen said. “I want to join a dance company at the University I will be attending, which is the UniThe Diamonds this year are having many dancers representing Akins as many continue to pursue dance after high school.

Fine Arts

words of advice for the future Diamonds as the season for the seniors comes to an end.

“To the Diamonds: Always remember why you joined year as a reminder to push yourself and never give up on yourself.” mond’s team after this year’s seniors graduate, but also to the captain who will soon step up and take the leadership ber there’s a reason why you were selected. Enjoy it, but remember there is much more responsibility to be captain.

Good luck and I know you’ll be great.”

UIL

Student musicians advance Maria Moreno-Gonzales Staff Reporter

Playing guitar isn’t just a walk in the park, yet it’s still treated like it is by the UIL judges.

Akins advance guitar class competed in the

ing the highest possible score and some even

interesting to me,” Daus said. “It was a stepping stone for me from last year’s guitar class to an even more advanced piece to play.” “the real deal” but competitors feel and treat it like it is. This time, however, it was not a regular “fake” UIL. It was important because the judges will come to a conclusion if all of the different schools did a good job and see if a real UIL should be done.

memorize a class one solo and perform it at regionals.

Junior Jeremy Daus made it to state with his performance of the piece Prelude and Al-

guitar I would’ve never imagined making it to this point. I wouldn’t have believed myself with the list,” Davenport said.

Overall, the guitar students have accomplished great things and they owe it all to their teachers.

“I performed that piece because when I was going through different solos with my teacher it sounded very

guitar, without him we wouldn’t be where we

John Hauser

Fashion For Thought Haleigh Wagner Managing Editor As the year comes to an end, summer and warm weather fashions are arising.

Women’s style on the runways

styles like the baseball jacket and the loafer are rising up again. These two pieces were popular in several collections of Hermes, Burberry Prorsum and Gucci.

silhouettes and busy patters. Other designers like Dior and Louis Vuit-

Vintage with modern aspects is

Around school, girls have been of these pieces include circle skirts in solid styles and colors like black or denim. Girls tend to pair these such as moccasins, loafers and balHale ig hW agne r

Sonny Molina

Cyrus are popular style inspirations.

On campus guys have been sporting big trends like beanies, dark wash denim and graphic tees. Brands like Crooks and Castles, Obey, Born To Be Rich and students. Other things that remain popular are the Nike “Foams” and

typically in the large variety with runway include heels with geometric shaping, either in the pattern or the design of the shoe. made a big come back in tailored ways in the collections of Dries Van Noten, Comme des Garcons and even the shoe wear of Jimmy Choo. Another popular patternis stripes are taking a nautical theme.

This print was commonly seen in

from many different places. pull from different places like blogs, people walking down the street or street-style books.”

The yearbook editor shops at thrift stores or on online stores.

“I wouldn’t say I have a favorally depends on your taste and what you’re looking for on which store you go to.” stores, he is also into higher fashion brands.

Doctor Martens Senior Sonny Molina’s limited edition plastic Doctor Marten sandals.

ing right now would be my patent love them.” who you want to be.

“You should just wear what imitate other peoples style you can never be a true individual. The more you pursue your own style, the better that it gets and the more people tend to notice.”

Sports The Eagle’s Eye Softball

Tuesday, 05.28.13

page 7

Season overview

Teams become closer in season Mark Vallejo Staff Reporter

“It was a fun season. We all did a lot of hard work in

at a close and the Akins softball teams has had a good year. With wins that made them stronger as a team and losses that made them learn from their mistakes, JV1 and JV2 are proud with what they’ve accomplished throughout the year, but varsity was upset with the choices made.

“The team improved in things such as hitting, base said. “The catching, offense, and defense were great. Overall, I was pleased with the players this time around.”

With much improvement this year, the JV1 team has won multiple games.

“I am really glad with the team I had the opportunity to work with this year,” really competitive and we won several games at the tournaments and the districts.” sas enjoyed the year and is proud with the outcome of the season.

Track

Backcourt favorites

Posas said. “In the end we all got along really well and I’m happy with, what us, as a team, were able to do.”

The last game of the season was against Anderson their best to win the game but in the end the score was tied.

“It was the last time we were together, as a team, so we tried as hard as we could,” freshman Jordan Lott said. “They weren’t a tough team but I’m just glad that it didn’t end up as a loss.” as well. Due to the amount of practice, the team won a lot of games and tournaments.

“The players were great and worked hard all seasaid. “On our last game, the ended up being a tie. When we would score, they would we would’ve won.”

According to freshman team strived for the best.

“The season was good.

Max Kosusnik Staff Reporter

line the future of shooting backcourts in the NBA for

Jailene Torres

Pitch perfect Juniors Angelica Ramirez and Marisol Gomez play defence against the Bowie Bulldogs.

The lady Eagles losts both games against the lady Bulldogs 0-10 and 0-16.

We had losses and wins but we all stayed together as a team throughout the sometimes we’d get upset and down on ourselves, because we were losing but then once we started to talk we would get further into the game.”

The varsity teams season didn’t turn up, as they wanted. Unfortunately, the

Varsity didn’t win a game this season.

“We didn’t play well as a team. I think we were a little better as individuals but in the end, I’m just glad we were able to become closwe will do things more differently like practice more.”

The players think they could have done better.

was hoping her last year would’ve been good but it turned out as the opposite.

“We lost every game but we could’ve done better,” motivation and strength to win but in the end, we needed to pull through and just hope the team can do better The softball program hopes to improve the team

they will be considered one of the greatest backcourts of all time. coach of the Warriors, Curry and Thompson are already “the greatest shooting backcourt in the history of the game,” which he said after their game two win over the Denver Nuggets in the Lets put their numbers in perspective and up against some of the other greats of the sport’s history: Curry and Thompson have only been teammates for two seasons, and their

Overcoming obstacles

Runners work hard to finish a difficult year Tyler Derickson Staff Reporter

Taylor,” junior runner Cedric Williams said.

The teams inspiration showed its true colors when the girls track

Feet slow down to a stop as this track season comes to a conclusion at the end of a long and vigorous year. races and new track stars emerge to take on their own legacies on the Akins track team.

“I’m going to miss the connection that we all had and the closeness we had with each other, we were all a big family and no one could change that,” senior runner Jesus Ramirez said.

The track team’s family took a tragic turn when they lost sophomore runner Taylor Gray, but the team fought through it and persevered running for her.

“We ran our hardest for her every time we competed and it wasn’t just about ourselves anymore,” junior stone said.

in Akins track history.

-

nice to know we were represent Akins there,” Featherstone said.

This years girls team set up some great accolades for the athletes that are set to proceed Running in respect The Akins track team runs at Burger Stadium. The team raced in honor of the passing of sophomore Taylor Gray.

death brought the team even closer and gave them inspiration to run for her.

“It was great to see how the boys and girls track teams came together as one to remember Taylor,” Akins track coach Chris Thomas

said.

The team had a memorial run for her at Burger stadium to remember her.

“One of the greatest memories this year was when the track team all let go of balloons to remember

years team looks to set their own for the class of athletes after them.

“The girls making

a huge accomplishment,” Thomas said.

The boys team also had many highlights to their seadistrict competition victo-

many running catagories in out of district competitions.

The leaving seniors had a message to leave to the track athletes returning for “Try your best and practice hard, but always give it your all because before you know it senior year will come and pass and it will all be over,” Ramirez said.

With that said, upcoming track athletes are starting to son as under classmen move up to higher levels of competition and upper classmen work to bring home a district championship to Akins.

“I want my runners to make it to the state track be a great improvement if we could get more runners to make it to the regional Thomas said. to an end, another chapter of Akins track closes and a gins.

season, Thompson averaged with Curry averaging a .451 Former

Chicago

Bulls

looked at by most people as the best player of all time.

The two won three champiTheir best years were in -

three. Another great season they put together was

Another one of the great backcourts of all time was the Detroit Pistons tandem of Isiah Thomas and Joe Duand Dumars were some of the fastest players on the court and lead their teams to Their best seasons together statistically were the three, and Dumars shot .481

Scholarships

College sports

Student-athletes rewarded full scholarships Courtlan Ross

Brinee’ Stewart

School: Oklahoma Wesleyan Position: Guard Favorite Athlete: Himself Favorite Quote: “I do not look up to anyone because one day my idols will become my rivals.”

Position: Forward School: nior College Favorite Athlete:

Rakim Jackson School: Ellsworth Junior College Position: Receiver and Favorite Athlete: Cassius Clay Favorite Quote: “It is Hard To Beat A Gives Up.”

se ph

Fe at

he

rs

to

ne

School: sity Position: Guard Favorite Athlete: Reggie

Jo

Favorite Quote: “If it were easy we would all be doing it, it is the hard that counts.”

Fredd Richardson

-

Jesus Ramirez School: Howard Payne University Position: Linbacker Favorite Athlete: Brian Dawkins Favorite Quote: “The most certain way to succeed is to try just one more time.”

-

Favorite Quote: “Hard work beats talent when talent doesn’t work hard.”

from three, while Dumars and .481 from threes.

Finally, we’ll put Curry and Thompson’s numbers against one last duo, their merly of the Indiana Pacers. While playing together dogs, always coming to play with the leagues best like the Their

most

successful

from three, and Jackson shot

Amanda Alanis School: Alvin Junior College Position: Catcher and Third Base Favorite Athlete: Amy Hooks Favorite Quote: “Live every day as if it was your last.”

three, while Jackson shot a from the three.

In my opinion, after seeof the Chicago Bulls were the best all time backcourt.

Photo Essay The Eagle’s Eye

Tuesday 5.28.13

page 8

Prom, a night of life long memories Night exceeds expectations Marisol Gomez Photo Editor A lot of work goes into making prom the amazing dream come true every senior wants it to be. The people behind setting all of this up work hard year round.

“We fundraised, chose themes, put together a prom court, and organized a playlist.” Senior Prom Comittee member Alex Pineda said.

The Prom Committee put hours of work into making the 2013 Prom the best one yet Senior Arisbeth Garcia helped plan the prom as a member of the Prom Commitee.

“Helping put prom together wasn’t easy, it needed a lot of work and committment.” Garcia said.

Although there were many

things to look forward to there were also many things to be nervous about. Since the Prom Comittee was responsible for many things leading up to prom and during prom they were nervous about how the night would turn out.

“I was nervous that the decorations wouldn’t be set the right way or it wouldn’t look the way we wanted it to,” Pineda said.

Not everyone on the comittee was nervous though.

“I was more excited than nervous.” Garcia said.

“Prom was everything I expected and more!” Pineda said.

Prom met the expectations of the Prom Commitee members.

Prom night went as planned for the seniors that worked all year long to make it happen and for prom attendees to have the time of their lives as one last “hoorah!” for the senior class of 2013.

Marisol Gomez Heitzel Alvarenga

Heitzel Alvarenga

(Top Right) Prom King and Queen

Marisol Gomez

Dayana Sanchez

(Top Left) Pretty in Pink

(Middle Left) Engaged In a Smile

(Middle Right) Macarena On the Dance Floor

Eagle’s Eye The

~30~

2013 senior staff

2

Alex Herrera

Dez Moore

Elianne Candelario

Cristina Gonzalez

Harley Cruz

Ben Livingston

John Hauser

Haleigh Wagner

Francisco De La Rosa

Ben Livingston

Andrea Barrera

3

Haleigh Nicole Wagner Managing Editor 3 yrs. on staff Jackie, Savannah:

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Momma:

Mr. Reeves:

Alex:

Dad: -

Mrs. Tennen:

Sonny: Parks and Recreation:

Ms. Kesling:

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Alex Herrera Photo Editor

-

-

3 yrs. on staff

-

Sonny Molina.

-

Haleigh Wagner:

-

Michael Reeves:

Vanessa Montoya

Max Kosusnik:

Savannah Garza:

My Transition Reminder: Mr. Leath:

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Jacqueline Rodriguez:

-

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4

John Hauser, Staff Reporter, 1 yr. on staff Remember, wherever you go, there you are. You only exist as a biochemical reaction in your brain. Everything that you have ever experienced is an experience you will take with you for the rest of your life, unless you get Alzheimer’s. Bridges burn faster with jet fuel, but they’re harder to cross. Stone bridges don’t burn, but with enough heat and pressure they’ll metamorphose.

The Earth is 93 million miles from the sun; never forget that, you’ll need to know it when Cab. Your tattoo idea is terrible, but you should get it anyways. senses. Imagine a picture of a sailboat; see it with your mind’s eye. See? I told you so, there

I’m not very good at saying good-bye so I’ll start by thanking some people that made attending high school easier.

The Ginger Swag, Mr. Reeves. You put your trust in me to take on the task as Editor-inChief after only a year in newspaper. At the time I was confused and wanted no part of that but you pushed me and I used that push to produce a pretty good-looking newspaper.

Before little Baby Ginger TRU was born, Christian, Matthew, and

Elianne Candelario Staff Reporter 1 yr. on staff

purpose of life is replication, nothing more. Don’t get caught thing. Disco still sucks. Benjamin Franklin was a communist.

If you’re having a bad day, just think about tropical fruits. are Satan’s spawn. Break societal norms, its fun. Scream on the bus, dance in an intersection, pop balloons in libraries. The concepts of time and direction are holding us back.

Death is just a rearrangement of atoms. There is no such thing as fate, things just happen. The ment of your imagination. If you can’t eat it is it really worth having? Dez really is my best friend. Goodbye.

The loveliest lady at Akins, Mrs. GarciaMata, whom I believed has been thanked or should be thanked by every student that begins high school at Akins.

You were the all-around teacher that every student should have, teaching us everything from leadership and trust, to how to properly maintain Thank you for being a great teacher and doing so much for the Class of 2013. I cannot wait

to read my letter from freshman year.

My friends and family deserve the biggest thanks, without all of you I wouldn’t have made it through high school. I have met so many people throughout my four years here and I know that after graduation relationships with people will fade. I am glad I have the select few of people that I know I will continue to have a strong relationship with after high school. nitely the highlight of

my four years. I have developed great friendships to go along with great memories. We won another Bronze Star with The Eagle’s Eye. I have competed in major JiuJitsu and boxing compe-

Dez Moore Editor-in-Chief 2 yrs. on staff

I have been accepted to college. I have accomplished so much during my time as a student at Akins and I am ready to accomplish so much more as I leave.

As I say good-bye to high school, I say hello to the next step of my life. YOLO.

Senior year has gone with the wind; it feels like just yesterday I was a freshman just out of middle school hoping for the best yet expecting the worst. I was always warned to enjoy high school because the years would high school. Now we are in May, just a few weeks away from graduation and I am pretty nervous.

Out of all the great teachers I’ve had throughout these four years, there are a few who have helped me with the journey of high school. I would

like to thank Mr. Westerlund, Ms. Shaw, Ms. Gilson, and Ms. Crippa for all that they have done for me.

These teachers made me feel comfortable enough to come to them when I needed help or advice. I am truly grateful for them and will not forget them when I leave this school.

Among many other things, high school taught me to get along with everyone around me, this is something I hope will help me out in the future as well as it has these four years. I know I’ll miss high school even though at this very moment I can’t wait to leave.

Something I will leave high school with are my friends and great memories, I will not name them all because not only is that a waste of time but also I’d be stating the obvious. My friends know who they are and they also know how much I love them.

With that being said, I wish to continue my friendships and connections I started in high school throughout the rest of my life. I don’t think of this as a goodbye, I think of it more as an I’ll see you later because no matter where we end up at some point we will all meet again. See y’all in ten years!

5

Ben Livingston, Sports Editor, 1 yr. on staff

I had tried before my last year in high

on the newspaper staff. Suddenly, within a year, I became Sports Editor. Aside from being an editor, writing has been a really exciting and eye opening experience. Being on the side of the school that collects all the information to report back to students and the community has helped me learn a lot, not just about journalism, but about the school as a whole.

I wish I had joined the newspaper sooner. Writing and design has become a skill of mine that I love to utilize and explore, and because I only had one year to do it in high school, my time here has been bittersweet. But, when I go to St. Edwards in the fall, I hope to

Andrea Barrera Staff Reporter 1 yr. on staff

continue journalism and graphic design.

I’ll miss everyone here on the paper, and it will be tough to leave, but I’m ready to conquer life beyond high school, and grow further.

My time here at Akins has been a wild and crazy ride. There have been many ups and downs, but of course, the whole 2013 class and I will graduate a more developed, stronger, and smarter people. That is what high school is. And although I know I still have a long way to go, my presence here at Akins, in theater and newspaper, have made me quite a different person than I was four years ago. I’ll miss all of the friends and all of the memories with them that I have had, but I’m really excited to move forth with life.

I want to thank a few folk at school. I want to thank Ms. Siegel, for helping me grow into a more outward and rounded person, pushing me to explore new sides

As I consider my senior year and graduation, it may be the end of high school, but in reality its only the beginning and I have my whole life ahead of me. As every other senior will say the “high school experience” was bittersweet, I on the other hand will say otherwise. I couldn’t thank everyone who has made high school easier for me, enough.

Hannah, we have so many ambitions and dreams we will soon share together after high school and that’s a promise. I will love my favorite “peppering partner” forever. And I will never forget how crazy you drive me, in a good way of course. And I can’t wait to see you improve over the years in volleyball, and step up as a leader next season.

Lillian... Lilly... My Egg Head! These high school halls we once roamed and our wild adventures will always bring back some of the

funniest memories I will remember when I reminisce back on high school, if by chance I ever do.

Thank you for listening to me, and always giving me a reason to laugh. We always got each other in the some of the funniest “PREDICAMENTS”. Oh and by the way, you’re welcome for not letting “you know who” beat you up. ;) I will honestly miss you, and I’ll be the one on the sidelines yelling, “GO LILLY!”.

To my two amazing best friends, Nicole and Sam. Oh how we came up with the dumbest things that made us laugh for days. Nicole, I loved watching you perform throughout the years and Sam, thank you for everything, from keeping me awake in pre-cal, to playing with my hair with the one hand you could use. You two will always be my best friends, I love you guys. Diamonds are a girl’s bestfriend!

of who I am and to work hard. With out very introverted and shy person.

I want to thank Mr. Doerr, for being an awesome advisor and a friend, supporting me and helping me through the three years that I’ve had with him.

This good-bye can’t run without me thanking my friends, the long time friends in theater, new friends in newspaper, and all my close friends along the way. You all know who you are!

Lastly, I want to thank Mr. Reeves, for pushing me to be in newspaper, to write and be the sports editor, giving me ple, I would have never really discovered newspaper.

Every one I have met and every memory I have created with them will always stick with me, and will forever be unforgettable.

Amethyst, oh my where to start? Well thank you for being my Dr. Phil and constantly listening to all my “personal problems”. It’s crazy how over the course of a few months literally talking to you everyday, we’ve gotten to know each other better. nally get over my fear of rollercoasters and go with you on one, cause I pinky promised. Well thank you for all the memories, laughs, and advice... I really hope you jump back into playing basketball, because the drive and passion you have for it, is unbelievably inspiring. And yes, just this once... YOU WIN.(: To my favorite coaching staff; Coach Ridgeway, Lindsey, Salazar, and of course Coach Thomas… I will never be able to thank you four enough. You all had been there for me constantly throughout the years, and I will NEVER forget that.

Volleyball got me through high school, and the coaches deserve so much credit. Even though I’m graduating this year, the volleyball program won’t be able to get rid of me that fast.

To Mr. Reeves I want to say thank you... For always having your door open this year. I loved the fact that unlike many other adults, you treated each and every one of us like adults and that freedom was very much appreciated. I may not have been the best writer, but you constantly gave me the feedback I needed to improve. This may have staff, but I can say that I see the newspaper in a different light. How much hard-work really gets put into it, and yet I can say that your class was my absolute favorite. “HAMMERTIME!” Mom and Dad, I will always remember that the proven fact it, students

who are most successful isn’t because they graduated from a public or private high school... But are the ones with the parents who are constantly pushing their kids to be successful with a lot of parent involvement. I am blessed with two parents who have literally attended each and every one of my games since the seventh grade. I know you both want what’s best, so thank you, y te quiero mucho.

I have been fortunate to have an amazing family consisting of a mom, dad, little sister, and two UNBELIEVABLE brothers.

That pretty much sums up my “high school experience”, and I can’t wait till that moment when I stage. Going in as an Akins Eagle, and leaving as a St. Edwards Hilltopper.

“And in that moment, -The Perks of Being a

When people kept telling me “oh, your senior year will go by so fast!” I thought of how slow the past years have gone by and didn’t really expect this one to be any different.

They were right of course, as the past couple of months have gets closer and closer to graduation day. The past three and half years seem like a huge blur really, as I’ve seen myself and others grow up and move on with our lives. years here for granted cause they really do pass by before you know it.

I want to thank Ms. Bagnall for being an amazing English teacher. You really made an impression in my life and have introduced me to some really amazing books.

Ms. Simmons, you have helped me a whole lot this year with college advising and giving me the courage to apply to those universities. You,

too, were a great English teacher back in the 8th grade, must be crazy to see us kids growing up already huh?

Ms. Briseno, I owe you a huge thank you!

Without your help I wouldn’t have been able to start the roller derby team, The Rolling Dead Girls. Without that team the girls and me wouldn’t be where we are today. Roller derby has meant everything to me, and I’m so glad you were able to help us out and get us moving.

Mrs. Garcia-Mata and Mr. Mata-Garcia, I know one of you no longer works here anymore, and it broke my heart when they took away teen leadership. You two are amazing and some of the most down to earth teachers. Your class was really great and I’m glad I was able to be a part of it. You all are some of the nicest, caring teachers I had the pleasure to meet. I hope to keep in touch and catch up to all -

Cristina Gonzalez Staff Reporter 1 yr. on staff

6

ished.

Ashley Murillo, you have been my best

Harley Cruz Staff Reporter 1 yr. on staff

day we met sophomore year, and I love you for always being there for me. These years haven’t been easy, but I’m glad we’ve stayed friends.

You’re amazing and one of the coolest, funniest, nicest friends I could ever ask for. I still need to take you to see the Rocky Horror Picture Show!

My one-year on the newspaper staff has been enjoyable and very adventurous. It really made my senior year more interesting and gave me a voice when it came to opinion stories.

This year’s paper has been phenomenal, and for anyone who actually reads them you better keep doing so next year!!

So with that I want to just wish luck to all you underclassman. Go do something crazy. Oh, and don’t procrastinate!

The past four years of my life have been a whirlwind. I think of every moment that has made me laugh until I cried and the moments where I’ve cried and desperately needed a laugh afterwards. Those moments were spent with friends who have in some shape or form impacted my high school life. Many of those friends I’ve known since elementary and middle school. Hopefully these are the friends that will go skydiving with me on my 99th birthday. :D First shout out is to the Honorary Homeskillet Krew; Leny, Sandra, Mariela and Angel. These homies go way back to my middle school days. I can’t even begin to explain how much I love you guys. It’s impossible to explain all the memories we had

these last four years but they have been insane! Leny, even though I hated it, I love how you forced me to get over my fear of Chuckie. Lol. I miss our crazy times of laughing until we cried and all the fun we had dancing at quinces.

I just miss you so much and I can’t wait until we reunite.

Angel, I loved all the times we jammed to your song “riverside” – you know what I’m talking about. I love all our odd conversations that I can’t explain here due to inappropriateness. Haha. Sandra, I love that every year we go to the carnival and ride the spaceship a million times defying gravity each time. We have stuck together since our punk rock/ scene days in middle school and gone thru evolutions of hair. We have so many memo-

ries there’s too many I can’t even process them all. You are a great best friend. Mariela, I love how you always seem to understand me. Sometimes I don’t even have to tell you, you just know! You and me, we’re going to take the Hollywood entertainment industry by storm.

For all my other homiesyou should know who you are, don’t think I forgot about you.

I can’t write all your names because this would turn into a novel. Just know that each moment I’ve spent with each of you guys has been a memory engraved in my mind. Your love and support has driven me to my success. I promise that this won’t be the last time you see me. This isn’t a goodbye; it’s a see you later homeslice!!

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Francisco De la Rosa Staff Reporter 1 yr. on staff

Students are supposed to walk away with many great memories of their high school years and an understanding of what they want to do for the rest of their lives, however this is not always true, I believe high school is just a start of what my life will become and at the end I will decide what will be my life with the memories I carved out myself, not based on test and constant expectations we are required to meet which can be very overwhelming. Rather then deal with what high school throws at you in a negative way, we should know how to construct it into what we do best and love, for my example it was music and that is the most important memories I will take with me and not the negative.

Without the stress of high school, it was not completely a bad time, along the course of the four years I met many great inspiring people from teachers to friends. I would like to mention a few who greatly

inspired me, First Mr. Osborne from Austin classical guitar society and Mrs. Bennett whom inspired me to peruse my music career even though it took me a couple years to grasp hold of my music theory and take music more serious, either way they where always there to support my dream and I greatly thank you.

Mr. and Mrs. Mata whom inspired me to be much more positive and open with my communication, Your teen leadership class made my entrance to high school so much more endurable I really do not know if I would have been able to cope with freshman year, it was a crazy year getting used to running around the campus learning the high school way, and it was always nice seeing your smiling faces and the end of a tiring day, thanks. Thanks to Mrs. Bagnall who taught us creative writing sophomore year and inspired me to begin writing lyrics, thanks so much Mrs. Bagnall. And

Max Kosusnik Staff Reporter 2 yrs. on staff

A great thanks to Mr. Izor who has supported my music since freshman year, thanks for coming to a couple of my shows too, its so cool to see your teacher from freshman year watching you jam out downtown, thank you. Never stop with your music as well.

And lastly all my closest friends and bandmates, my guitar class, every one who has been there for me thank you so much it has been an honor even though high school is just the start, I am going to miss a lot of you, however we all are going to open a new chapter to our lives more excitement than high school.

My life will always include musage to everyone is remember to follow your dream no matter what it is and don’t ever let anybody tell you that you cant because if you really love it, the dream will become true.

First off, before I say what I have to say, I want to thank the teachers who helped me out and put up with me, and the friends who stayed cool; Mrs. Bagnall, Mrs. Hebrink, Mr. Doerr, Mr. Reeves, Mr. Izor, and Mr. and Mrs. Mata. My friends know who they are.

Now here’s my input: I, and mostly everyone around me, can say we put up with these four years and now can live the lives we’re meant to live. High school was cool but it’s quite overrated. Some people think they have the time of their life during this experience, but I highly disagree. Why would the time your body and mind go through the most change be the greatest? to get too caught up in all the potential sulost in, so I kept quiet and to myself.

In the 9th Grade, skipping classes nearly became a weekly thing, and that’s something I wish I could change because had I gone and done my work, I could be heading to a good college somewhere, rather than nowhere.

But it’s all good, because along the way, I always kept a few crucial objects and

ideas on me; earphones with music playing 65 % of the time, ambitious dreams and imagination, and the idea of never giving up on what I love, guitar, which is the object I put work into every day.

In 10th and 11th grade I could’ve fallen into the façade I rebelled against, by dating girls based on looks and temporary feelings and hanging out with people who weren’t necessarily my true friends, ones who took advantage of my kindness.

Over the summer after junior year, I travelled to Norway, England, Sweden, Denmark, Germany, Belgium, and the Netherlands. While adventuring out, I sort of discovered myself, and became somewhat of a recluse. I ignored the calls of the people who weren’t real, and kept solo.

When school started again, I stayed out of relationships and hung with cooler people. It hadn’t struck me that I was a senior until around April or May. The last 12 years of my life seemed like such a usual routine. But your school years aren’t merely as important as they say.

To any incoming freshmen, here’s some that you love, and dedicate whatever time you have.

e y E s ’ e l g a E The

2013 senior staff