Issue 4 (November, 2013-2014)

ECHOES

Issue 4 | Volume 113 November 2013

The Independent Voice of Abraham Lincoln High School | Council Bluffs, Iowa | ALechoes.com

Black Friday taking over Thanksgiving Stores around the area opening early for shoppers

families.

“Honestly I think it’s part of spending time with their family so they can go shopping together,” social studies teacher Jennifer Bonham social studies teacher said.

Black Friday has become a tradition for many Americans and some people just really enjoy being apart of the crazy shopping experience.

There are many stores that will be open on Black Friday such as Target, Best Buy, Walmart, JCPenney,

Bass Pro, and even Cabela’s.

All of these stores have to go through tons of preparation for the incessant mob that will be inhabiting them.

JCPenney’s will be opening on Thanksgiving day at 8 P.M, Toys R Us at 5 P.M, and even Best Buy will open at 12 A.M. Toys R Us is very prepared for their customers to come and enjoy themselves.

“We get ready three months in advance for Black Friday, and we also have our overnight people help

us out.” said Lori Sarris, the human resources department supervisor from Toys R Us. Instead of thinking about the negative aspects of Black Friday, they choose to look at more optimistic viewpoint.

“The rush of people in line is crazy and it’s a very busy day for us,” Sarris said.

Believe it or not this was a positive thing for them, they thrive the craziness of everyone coming to shop.

For Toys R Us, their goal is not how much money they make even though that is

their busiest day; they would like everyone to walk out happy.

For those that happen to miss Black Friday, or simply do not like the chaos that is seemingly presents, there is another chance for consumers to take advantage of this holiday with good prices. This will start after Black Friday on a Monday, which is officially known as Cyber Monday. It is similar to that of Black Friday in the sense that it gives people a chance to go shopping online for both idealistic, and convenient deals. Many stores participate in Cyber Monday because it helps them boost their sales, get rid of any old items that have sat on the shelf for too long, and it helps customers get cheaper items. There is also a website that informs the reader what stores will let you apply Cyber Monday online and get a discount.

The website is called cybermonday.com where not only can you find stores, but coupons as well.

Black Friday loses its point to some people, but others remember to be thankful for everything they have.

“I feel bad for the employees because they have to work, but I think it’s good for consumers so we don’t have to muscle our way in for better deals.”

-Senior Andrew Jensen

“I think it’s an outlet for them to make money, so I think it’s okay as long as employees are willing to work.”

-Sophomore Katie Richards

“I think that is terrible because Thanksgiving is about family and when stores are open people have to work instead of being with family.”

-Junior Kevin Roark

“I think it puts a damper on holiday festivities because people know they have to be to work early. Both my jobs start early and people are crazy on Black Friday.”

-Senior Lexie Nadler

By Dani Rambo & Christian Miller

Reporters

Thanksgiving to most people means getting together with the family and the people you love, but now Black Friday is taking over the entire holiday that is Thanksgiving. Many people have forgotten what Thanksgiving is really about, and instead of having dinner with their families and being thankful for what they already have, Black Friday is dominating the ideals of what is Thanksgiving.

“I feel like that is somewhat true, because stores get Christmas stuff in before Halloween and Thanksgiving because Christmas is such a big holiday,” junior Brenna Wilhite said.

Not only is Black Friday keeping people away from their families but it causes a great deal of stress for the store clerks and managers.

Senior Jamie Cash, a student that also works at JCPenney, has experience going through the rush of Black Friday.

“I feel stressed because the customers are counting

Photo illustration by Scott Brown, Crimson and Blue yearbook on me to help them out,” Cash said. “If I don’t find what they want they sometimes get mad.”

The workers sometimes miss out on family events so they can deal with the shopping madness.

“I miss out on my own Black Friday shopping with my family,” Cash said.

To look on the bright side, Black Friday has, in a sense, brought people together.

For many individuals, Black Friday shopping has become a tradition for their

How do you feel about stores opening so early on Thanksgiving for Black Friday?

Photo poll by Jessi Borwick

2013-14

ALECHOES.com

Important Dates

November 27: School Vacation Day November 28-29: Thanksgiving Break

December 23-January 3: Winter Break January 20: Vacation Day

March 5-7: Potential Snow Make Up Days April 18-21: School Vacation Days

2 World News

Jessie Adkins & Katie Hiers | News Co-Editors

Government Shutdown

Businesses and families feeling effects

News

Families affected by budget cuts

By Jaidlyn Bookout Co-Editor in Chief Each and every day people are facing the many expenses needed to get through the day. But what would one do if the necessities they couldn’t afford was food? In 1939, an idea was first created to help people who needed assistance in order to buy food, known as the Food Stamp Program (FSP) which later ended in 1943. Food Stamps are now provided by the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and can be used as an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card which allows people who earn

By Francisco

Franco Photography Editor

Since the end of the government shutdown on the Oct. 16, many people are wondering how long this economic “peace” will last.

After President Barack Obama signed a bipartisan bill, a bill that means that both parties have met a common ground, the government shutdown ended, but for some the effects are still being felt. For Yosemite National Park residents, the damage done by not only the shutdown, but the wildfires that came with them, the damage is catastrophic.

The wildfires started back in August when a part of the California rim fire reached a remote part of forest. The fire started at the bottom of the Tuolumne river and spread North, East, and West. To the west there is a small community called Pine Mountain Lake where people had to evacuate for their safety. This was also the case in the North where Tuolumne City is located.

Finally, to the East was Yosemite, where it later became worse and caused visitors to leave which caused family owned businesses to suffer.

It seemed like there was a glimmer of hope after the wildfire died but then the shutdown occurred and the

problems worsened.

“I’m not able to make any of my bills that’s why I have to be out by the end of the month. I can’t pay my rent, can’t pay my electricity...I’m going to leave here in debt,” Pamela Harris, owner of Pine Mountain Deli, in a tourist town close to Yosemite said in an interview with seattletimes. com.

Yosemite wasn’t the only one to be hit hard by the shutdown, 401 parks, monuments, and culture sites operated by the National Park Service were also closed.

Since the end of the shutdown people are still worried about it happening again. The bipartisan bill that was signed only goes through Jan. 15 and this could cause another shutdown if both sides don’t come to an agreement. With the chance of another shutdown looming, Congress and the Senate made a select group of 29 people from both to decide on a compromise.

“This is the budget process, the House passes a budget, the Senate passes a budget, you come together to try and reconcile the differences. That’s the way we’re supposed to do things,” Rep. Paul Ryan, House budget committee chairman said.

Did you know...? $450,000 lost revenue per day from entrance fees and in-park activities at national parks.

401 parks, monuments and cultural sites operated by the National Park service were closed due to the shutdown.

97% of NASA’s 18,069 workers were furloughed, leaving under 600 on the job. $16.7 trillion - the current debt limit 17 years since the last government shutdown - December 16, 1995 - January 5, 1996 Information gathered from usatoday.com

Echoes

low-income to no-income, to purchase food items.

“I think that there’s going to be a lot of problems with the budget cut, if I had the choice I would still cut the budget a little, because I don’t want people to abuse the amount of money they get but some people do need it because they have poor income,” senior Mimi Dollen said.

Food Stamps can not be used on fast-food, alcohol or hot foods. A family who is seeking assistance must first go through a process to see if they are eligible before receiving any benefits. Also, the amount of money a family is given depends on a variety of different conditions.

Once considered eligible the family in need will then begin to receive monthly help from the government.

“I think Food Stamps have helped people a lot, if someone has children and they don’t have a good job it helps them provide food for their family,” junior Tony Outlaw said.

According to fns.usda. gov, as of July of this year 421,082 people in Iowa alone participate in the food stamps program. In the United States over 45 million people are currently receiving assistance. The 2009 Recovery Act act gave SNAP around $45.2 billion to increase the benefits of families who needed sup-

port, but due to the expiration of this act on Nov. 1 the SNAP program now has received a budget cut. According to cbpp.org, families of three people will experience a monthly cut of $29.

“I think it will affect families in need by the fact that everyone eats differently, some people barely eat, others pig out so when they need food they won’t have money for it due to this cut,” senior Chanel Zarate said.

People and families all around our area are being affected by this cut yet millions of families all around the world who are helped by food stamps will experience this budget cut as well.

Mall of the Bluffs revamping plans

By Tanner Hochstetler Reporter The Mall of The Bluffs first came to the Council Bluffs area in 1986. Over the years the Bluffs Mall took business from the Omni-Center located on West Broadway, which was the popular mall at the time.

At one point the Mall of the Bluffs was a bustling place of business, designer stores such as JcPenney’s, Old Navy, Pacsun, Dillards, etc. used to exist in the mall.

Now the mall consists of only a few stores such as: Aeropostale, Buckle, and Victoria’s Secret.

Namdar Reality, a company hailing from New York, recently bought the

Mall of The Bluffs for the sole purpose of fixing the place up. Their plan is to fill the mall with local stores and even some designer stores. They want to start inward and work outward.

Students want to see their favorite stores in the mall.

“I want to see Wet Seal and Charlotte Russe in our mall because every time I go to WestRoads they have the biggest sales, so it would seem like they are getting good business, and they have cute clothes,” sophomore Yazmin Davis said.

Although there isn’t a current date set for when the realtor company will start to develop the mall, there are some subtle changes occurring. Many may have noticed the bright, purple and yellow colors painted on the

side of the mall. This would be Planet Fitness, a gym that charges $10 a month for unlimited access, or the option to add unlimited tanning for another $10. For more information on Planet Fitness see page 11.

“I’m excited for Planet Fitness to open because I can workout after school all the time,” senior Morgan Naberhaus said.

Halloween City is the first Halloween based store that has hit the Mall of the Bluffs in about 12 years. It is a seasonal occupation in the mall that has brought more attention to the it. Many may have heard the ruckus in the mall parking lot. The Cornhusker Corvette Club of Nebraska has been hosting timed Corvette races in the mall parking lot. They

operate every Saturday and Sunday, and admission is free to the public. The club allows people 16 and older to enter the parking lot and see the Corvettes face to face. They even allow select individuals to ride with the professional drivers.

“I think it’s entertaining but it’s a danger, they should have admission fees to bring in more money.” Austin Devers ‘16 said.

The Mall of Bluffs was once a well developed place of business. Over the years the mall has gone downhill, and it even made it on Deadmalls.com. With the help of the new development, the Mall of The Bluffs shop store owners hope to see the mall gain business. For now the Mall remains without much business.

Public library preserving the past

By Calab Holder & Tiffany Ferrer

Journalism Staff

The celebrated Roman philosopher Cicero once said, “To be ignorant of what occurred before you were born is to remain always a child. For what is the worth of human life, unless it is woven into the life of our ancestors by the records of history?” This spirit of preservation has continued to persist into modern times and was strongly evident in 2010, when the Council Bluffs Public Library, with funding from the Iowa West Foundation and the Union Pacific Foundation, created the Council Bluffs: Proud Past, Bright Future website.

The organization’s board consists of retired teachers, current educators and interested community historians.

“There are many groups or agencies in Council Bluffs which “preserve” our history—the Dodge House, UP Museum, Squirrel Cage Jail, Pottawattamie County Historical Society, Trails West Museum, Church of the Latter Days Saints…I could go on and on to name a few,” Diane Herzog,

Youth Services Manager at the Council Bluffs Public Library said. “If you are referring specifically to the Library—we have a large Special Collections Department, which houses, indexes and posts online a wide variety of local historical

items, including all the AL yearbooks.”

The project’s goal is to create a widely accessible database of information for teachers, students and those who wish to find out more about the city of Council Bluffs. The school librarian’s

Screen shot of the www.councilblufflibrary.org/cbhistory/ thoughts further represent The website docuthe project’s goal. ments the city’s past through

“I think the the use of old photographs, library’s project is a good archival newspaper articles project. Plus, the library and other important priitself has a lot of history mary source documents. The behind it. Since everything website is funded by a joint is going digital, placing the effort between the Council documents on the internet Bluffs Public Library Founis a great idea,” Jennifer dation, Iowa West FoundaMisbach said. tion and the Union Pacific Foundation.

“We realize that we have limited resources for most web pages—which incorporate Nonpareil articles, photos found here at the Library. We also know that the general public has a great deal to add to these pages through scrapbooks, letters, photos, etc that they own.

We are very excited about heightening interest and increasing participation in the community by scanning materials and creating easy entry online. The expansion of information online will also engage the entire community,” Herzog said.

Younger generations will now have an opportunity to gain expanded insight into the history and events that have shaped Council Bluffs. This information is now available instantly through the Internet and can be accessed from the comfort of one’s home.

To make the website more user-friendly, the information has been divided into the following sections: community, government, economy and environment.

The address for this website is www.councilbluffslibrary. org/history.

Echoes

Jessie Adkins & Katie Hiers | News Co-Editors

Recognizing students in a new way

3

School staff acknowledging different students each week ByRachel Cattone-Dungan

Reporter

At the end of last year, monitors were installed around school and every week a student is chosen to be the “Lynx of the Week” is chosen at AL, and is displayed on the monitor above the entrance to the cafeteria.

The monitors show their recent achievements, and a picture of themselves posing for their rewarded events or activities. Jeff Novotny, activities director, feels that students in activities should be recognized.

“It is a way to honor a kid in activities that has done something great, it can be sports, music, any activity,” Novotny said.

The activities department came up with Lynx of the

Photos submitted by Mindi Richardson

Week to recognize those in activities who have made great achievements within their events or activities.

Just recently, sophomore Breanna Waugh and other cross country runners have been chosen.

“Our achievement was being all conference runners for cross country,” said Waugh, who received first place at the cross country conference meet. Junior Alex Brewer, sophomore Cici Saldana, senior Emma Preston, and sophomore Tyler Messenger were also chosen for Lynx of the Week for placing at conference.

Junior Ashleigh Bagshaw was picked as a Lynx of the Week for participating in the fall play.

“I was a bit surprised, because it wasn’t something that I’d expected to receive

it,” Bagshaw said. Along with Bagshaw, Francisco Franco, and Diamonte Hill were a Lynx of the Week for setting up and acting in the fall play. Assistant Principal Michael Mclaughlin wants to focus on the positive at AL. “We in general want to start honoring kids as much as we can, and getting out the word about the good things going on in the school, because it seems like the negatives comes out and everybody knows about the negatives, we want to start doing everything we can to focus on the good things,” Mclaughlin said.

None the less, the activities department is always looking for fresh talent and achievements, and will continue to do so throughout the ‘13-14 school year.

Art club perks student interests

By Brooke Criswell Business Manager

T

here is a new club that may be catching s o m e eyes this year around the school. The idea started by a senior on newspaper staff, Alex Snipes. Snipes and a few other students had began working on the startup of Art Club and with help from the sponsors Heather Mauer, Art Teacher and Brittany Ridenour, the newest art teacher--they were able to put their ideas into action this year.

“We didn’t have artistic clubs and art is one of my interests,” Snipes said.

Ridenour landed the mural project from David Fringer, Chief Technology Officer , to create a mural in

modern day ideas such as less gears, more wires.

A huge advantage of being involved in this club is that the students also participate in art showings.

One would select a piece

There are no particular skills required, yet it is a club made to help enhance artist’s abilities.

“I love art, and I was asked to join, it seemed like it would be a good experience

“We didn’t have artistic clubs and art is one of my interests.”

- Alex Snipes the old tech room, now the data center.

Their first project is to paint a mural of how technology has changed from time to time. The painting starts off with an outer space theme of gears coming from the Earth to represent how far machines have come to more

of their work and submit it to Mauer. Then, there are competitions and art shows that the piece of work could be shown in art shows or compete in competitions such as district art shows.

One distinction about this club is that one has to be recommended by a sponsor.

to help improve more skills with what I have already in art”, sophomore Megan Ferleman said.

Their main goal is works of painting. However, all aspect of art are taught and worked on. It is a yearround club that meets every Tuesday and Wednesday

Art club students rough outline for the technology center mural before the painting process. Photo by Francisco Franco after school in Mauer’s room until four. They are looking for more students to become participants.

Privileges differing across district

Incentive allows TJ seniors off campus lunch, hall time

By Alex Snipes Photographer

Thomas Jefferson High School seniors have the opportunity to leave for off campus lunches and are not required to participate during TJ Reads, the equivalent to AL Reads here and contrary to the rules held at AL. TJ allows certain seniors with higher ITED scores to take advantage of the incentive they have allowed when given a Senior Pass. At AL, the idea of off campus lunch is taken advantage of, even

without passes.

Though the requirements to be allowed these privileges are to improve on ITED scores their junior year, AL senior, Jake Alitz has a different idea.

“To have a minimum GPA of 2.8 and required attendance,” Alitz stated.

On the other hand, senior, Jake Weinfurtner agrees with TJ’s policy and informs how he wants the students to work for their pass.

“Have all passing grades and improve your ITED scores from the year before, to show that you actually earned it and worked for it,” stated Weinfurtner.

With the clash of reasons to earn such a privilege, there still lies a greater conflict; why does rival school TJ

have this option while AL doesn’t? For the students at AL who have heard of the senior passes, they’ve found it unfair that this isn’t offered for them and claim that they would have worked for this incentive if it were offered to them.

“I would have worked harder on my ITEDs and in classes to earn this,” Weinfurtner said.

Passes may be an incentive but they come with stipulations. The use of a senior pass is allowed all year as long as grades are kept up and student behavior isn’t an issue. Complying to these restrictions is Thomas Jefferson senior, Dalton Clark discussing how he uses his Senior Pass.

“I show my teacher that

I have one so I am excused from lunch or TJ Reads,” Clark said.

While TJ is allowed these Passes, AL hasn’t agreed to provide them. AL Principal, Todd Barnett informs why this is.

“We already have a sort of senior pass for people going to Tucker Center, but to add around two hundred kids to that mix could add a strain to it. ”

The location of AL isn’t close enough to any quick eateries which could cause a delay in students arriving to class. This is one of the few problems hindering Barnett from allowing an off campus lunch pass to all seniors, including those who do not have off campus classes.

4

Victoria Holcomb | Opinion Editor

Opinion

Echoes

By Taylor Crinklaw Reporter I am most likely one of the few students who have a job as a sophomore in high school. There are positives and negatives about almost everything.

Some of the positives about having a job so young is that when you go to apply

for college, many colleges will see that you have had a steady job for quite some time and have some background to your responsibility and work ethic.

Through my job at McDonald’s, employees can even get a scholarship.

Having a job is another way to gain respect from many adults.

They see that you’ve taken it upon yourself to earn your own money.

It is also very fulfilling to know that you are no longer fully depending on your parents. Want to take yourself on a shopping spree? You can do that and not break your parent’s bank accounts. Parents also like when their children take it upon themselves to get a gift for a special occasion.

It is also good having a job because you can have money to spend for now, and also save some for later.

Saving money will make it

easier in the long run, either it be for a car, or if you already have a car, repairs that may accrue over time.

Yes there may be some downsides to having a job.

Some may argue that you don’t have time for anything else in life while juggling a job, school, sleep, and a social life. Yes it may be hard, but it is a real wake up call, or look into how life will be after graduation. If you are just thrown out into the world having no experience with anything except living with your parents and having them take care of you, how does one expect to jump into life head first on your own?

Many people have done it and been okay but wouldn’t you rather have fun when you move out on your own, instead of being stressed out because you’re trying to juggle everything for the first time?

Teens that don’t have jobs often have a hard time adjusting to life after they are no longer under their parents households and no longer have their parents to depend on for money and help with things such as laundry, cleaning dishes, making your bed etc.

All in all there are positives and negatives to having a high school job, but it is something, I believe, that every teenager should have some experience first hand.

By Nathan Vorce Reporter In a life that is filled with homework and studying, sometimes it can be rather taxing to complete all the requests that schools require. Read this, write that, then figure out the x of y.

That’s a tall enough order on its own, let alone having a job to worry about. Sure, there are benefits of having a job in high school. You can have a steady money income that you can spend on the newest apple product or buy new $300 shoes, or even save for college. However, some people have to have jobs in order to assist in supporting their families, and in that scenario, having a job is justified and respected, yet misfortunate.

But the way I see it, not having a job now and focusing on preparing yourself physically, mentally and academically for the future is the optimal idea. If your grades are falling because you’re busy at work, that’s something to consider. With good grades typically come good jobs, and with good jobs generally comes superb pay.

There’s always those nights when you have nothing on your plate, and that’s when you can go socialize.

I personally love talking to

others, venting about my problems with life, listening to theirs, and doing whatever I want.

It’s stress free!

But if that were replaced with work, I feel like it would be more stress for me.

Too much stress is never good, even if you’re making $9.50/hr.

The age old saying “money can’t buy happiness” has never been more applicable than in this context.

Now, this is only truly against formal, “constant” jobs, like corporate or such. There’s no reason not to earn a few extra dollars on your free time by doing some helpful jobs in the neighborhood. Helping people is always nice, and there’s nothing wrong with having some pocket change. Besides, taking a few “neighborhood jobs”, you might meet a few new people and build some relations with other people.

Really, there’s no reason at this point in your life to be worried about making

Enjoying the jobless life while students can

Students handling both school and job

Are jobs a beneficial option for students?

money and working. Take some time right now to just do your school work and relax. These are years of your life you won’t be getting back, and you’ll be working enough when you’re older, so why start so soon? Concentrate on building a firm educational foundation, and make a base socially, so you can have something to jump off of when you’re reaching for a job later in life.

Senior anticipating college application process

By Britteny Johnson Co-Editor in Chief At the end of my junior year, and even some before that, I heard teachers and advisors telling me that I needed to start preparing for the future. I needed to start

my college search. I never really took this too seriously until the beginning of my senior year, then it all started to become real. At the end of August I sent my first ever college application in, and I’m not going to lie, it scared me a little bit. Okay, a lot.

Slowly but surely I sent in all of my applications, and that is when the dreaded wait began. Many of my seniors are doing this same thing, and to put it delicately, it sucks.

First you have to worry about getting a transcript so you can check what classes you’ve taken that, oh wait,

you forgot you took. Like that time you took a class on Business and Consumer Law, and all you think is, “When did I take this? How do I not remember that?”

No, but really, I don’t remember taking that class…

Anyways, after you look through your transcript, you can then begin your college essay writing. Telling each college how “different” you are from everyone else. We are told we are all individuals from the day we enter kindergarten, but we now feel that might be the case, but at the same time, why are we being told we have

to show we are different?

I’m so confused with that part, but I did it. I wrote that essay, and apparently it was okay, I mean, I was accepted to my colleges.

After you write that confusing essay, you get to fill out pages and pages worth of information about your life. It’s probably the most intimidating part of it all, especially when they ask you if everything you put on the application is 100 percent true. You second guess yourself at this point. “Did I spell that right? Is that really my birthday?” It’s the worst feeling ever when

you click the submit button.

Your stomach just drops and you want to cry. No taking it back now, though. You have just applied to college, whether you like it or not.

Last, but certainly not least, you have to wait to hear back from the places you have applied. One week passed, “Why haven’t they accepted me yet?”

Two weeks passed, “Okay, anytime now, colleges.” It gets so repetitive, waiting and waiting for the reply that may determine the rest of your life. Once you get the first acceptance letter though, that’s when things

get worse. “Why haven’t the others gotten back to me yet? Am I not good enough for that school?” Your mind runs wild, your head is spinning, and you have an awful knot in your stomach.

Slowly but surely though, the acceptances come in, and that’s when the hardest part of all comes along; choosing where to go. Bet you didn’t think of that when you were applying everywhere. That’s a whole other subject though, and I wont be getting into that.

My best wishes to all during these intense life moments.

people like the infamous Miley Cyrus uses at the VMA’s. When the older generations look at us younger generations using dance moves like “twerking” they immediately think that it’s a provocative and sexual dance move and are appalled but, what about the history of it?

Twerking originally became famous in the early ‘90s when many R&B artists started to write songs about the dance move and putting it in their music videos.

When twerking first started it was compared to the traditional African dances that have always been a

beautiful thing. The dance move itself can be used in an appropriate way when its in a choreographed manner, but just like any type of dancing there will always be criticism.

When you watch Hispanic dancing you can see how it’s a very intimate and sexual thing but its done in a beautiful way, I am not saying twerking is always an appropriate way to dance but in our generation and time twerking is among the many things that can be looked at from a different point of view. During Elvis Presley’s time he used the dance move, the “pelvic thrust”

which was also looked at much like twerking is by a lot of people. During any television broadcast of him they would only shoot above the waist in order for people to not see what he was really doing.

We are always told to express ourselves in the way we choose to, at a young age we are influenced by music, artists, actresses, actors, and nearly anything in social media. Twerking is only a way to express ourselves in a way that older generations may not understand. When I dance or when I see other people dance its all about moving to the music whether

its moving your hips or any other part of your body; our generation’s music is meant for this dance move in many songs it is referenced and that’s why it is used so often. I personally do not see anything wrong with this dance move it is just another thing that older generations will have to adapt to because with every generation there will always be controversy with how they choose to represent themselves. We have completely evolved things with our generation and have taken it the next step with how we choose to love and there is nothing wrong with that. I’m

proud to say I’m from this generation because we are truly fighting for what we believe in whether its a dance move or many other things.

Twerking is only a dance move, but it is one of the ways we choose to be different. We only have a certain amount of time in this world and our generation has already left its mark with our music, dancing, and overwhelming use of technology. We are different, we are always changing, and we are doing what we think is the best way to leave a mark in this world.

A dance move being expressed as any other

By Megan Figueroa Executive Reporter In the media, twerking is often viewed as a provocative and suggestive dance move that only

Opinion

Echoes

Victoria Holcomb | Opinion Editor

Staff Editorial

Students improve hallway etituque

School hallways after hours. Students interactions in building. Photo by Francisco Franco If you have ever been pushed down in the hallway or shoved against a locker because of hurried people in the hallway, that is a prime example of what not to do when it comes to hallway etiquette. Sure, we have all got someplace to go within

a short time constraint, but is there really a need to push and shove as if you are being chased down by maneating lions and are afraid for your life? Possibly not, as it is only a high school hallway, not the serengeti and there are no lions around

interested in eating anyone.

So why all the pushing and shoving, as we all eventually end up where we are headed?

Hallway etiquette should normally consist of walking without flailing your arms around like a mad person;

they should probably stay at your sides or holding your things. In the hallways it should consist of walking in a straight line, and to continuously walk, as people should not be deciding to stick themselves in the middle of the hallway to talk with a friend, as if they can not wait to tell them their stories. You could possibly tell them in class or over any social media. If one must do so, try heading towards a side of the hallway and speaking to them that way.

There’s no need to be a roadblock.

Of course it is always nice to be in a relationship but when one puts their relationship on display like art in the hallway, doing things such as making out.

To some it is normally a private thing that would be too embarrassing to put on public display although some do not. This is not necessarily a big problem in the hallways but it is against the “school rules” and multitudes of people find it a little over the normal display of affection, and makes

them a little uncomfortable.

Perhaps try it out somewhere more private?

It is always nice to talk with friends in the hallways but when most of the school is talking at the same exact time, yelling and screaming ensues, it is just to get someones attention.

One could go get them and talk to them that way instead of trying to yell over the additional throng of voices that are already deafening!

One should never trip someone, nor ever bookcheck them as it makes oneself look like a jerk and a bully. It is terribly rude and makes people feel bad about themselves. Instead of doing so maybe one could just ignore the urges of wanting to do this. Also, if anyone sees someone drop something it would be a great addition to hallway etiquette to help pick their stuff up, because no one wants to be stared at by everyone when their things drop. Be a pal.

(Staff voted in favor of this column 16 of 16.)

Student expresses student body changes

By Tiffany Ferrer Reporter Okay so honestly why on earth does our student body do the things they do? What do I mean? For instance do you know how to talk? Seriously, I walk

down the hall and hear the stupidest things in my life.

Now what is so stupid in my mind? Well lets see, it starts off with the way people talk and leads into the maturity level of half the student body. Either I have to hear someone say something that makes me wonder how they made it to high school or I see someone act like a 5 year old. With all the new words that come out, it doesn’t help their maturity. Okay all I am saying is have fun working a low paying job for the rest of your life, and don’t complain later when you don’t get your way. Parents can’t save

you your whole life.

You know, even with these stupid words I hear out of everyone’s mouths, it’s the way they act these days that has me going insane.

Everyone has something they hate or someone in that case. Even if you don’t admit it there is something.

Wouldn’t you hate it when someone acts in a way you hate or purposely messes with your head? Why on earth would you do it to others? I have been at this school long enough to know each year of freshman get worse and worse, but not only that it seems when they

go up a level in high school they get worse. Half of the kids, and I state kids, act like they are five and need an adult to hold their hands through everything. They act as if the teachers and staff are their maids. All I’m saying is that acting your age would be nice.

If students were to act like they cared about people’s feelings or would act mature, things in high school would be much easier. People wouldn’t have to worry about too much drama. There will always be drama but it won’t be because someone is acting

like they are coming from an elementary school. Maybe throw some manors out there. Cause if you didn’t know the staff in this school takes care of you nicer than you deserve. Throw out a thank you every now and again.

I can’t just say “oh take this in.” However this is real talk and I take pride on it.

What is an opinion with out a little opinion? Although I would love to see the day that annoying actions and words stop, because then will be the day I graduate and tell everyone to have a wonderful life.

Alumna experiencing nursing clinicals

By Brittany Rupp Alumna I’m back and absolutely thrilled to be writing for the Echoes again! This time last year I was sitting in my dorm room wanting with every fiber of my being to come back to AL and take on my duties as Editor-inChief, and HOSA president.

This year I just want to survive Nursing school and graduate with my BSN. It has been quite a change and journey. This marks my first

semester of Nursing school.

I survived General, Organic and Biological Chemistry, suffered through Physiology, and was deemed suitable by the nursing department staff to be a nursing student last school year. I thought I’d overcome the biggest hurdle, getting in the program.

Turns out I was wrong.

Everything from the first day of class to my first clinical session has been a roller coaster of tears, laughter, and pain. Ironically, kind of like working for newspaper!

Honestly, those first weeks are such a blur.

Between living in the century’s biggest heat wave with no AC, and being thrown into a swimming pool of reading and work with no floaties I was an overwhelmed and frazzled person. A word of advice for those considering nursing, figure out your study

patterns; you will be happier if you do this sooner rather than later. Within the first couple of weeks we were learning about poop and pee and everything we would be doing with it, including looking, smelling, fishing it out of places it got stuck and cleaning it up. Imagine learning this all at 8:00 in the morning.

The month of September flew by and then came October. The month clinicals would begin. I would no longer be practicing on my classmates but on actual real, live, sick people.

No more giggling when I couldn’t figure it out, no more “um does this go here?” moments. Granted I had job shadowed at Tucker Center, however I had never provided hands-on care. I was absolutely scared out of my mind.

My first clinical day was

October 22. It was raining and I will forever remember this because I was in white scrub pants and it was also 30 some degrees outside at 5:30 am. We had visited the nursing home the week before so I thought I knew where I was going, and what I was doing; man was I wrong. After parking in the wrong parking lot, bugging the head nurse (and making enemy of her), getting locked out of the building and being thoroughly wet I was ready to go home.

Unfortunately it was only 7:00 and I had four more hours of possible blunders.

Because of confidentiality, all you get to know about my patient is that they were a female and she was the sweetest.

Imagine the sweetest and nicest old person you have met, fill them with energy and give them a walker. My

instructor took me into the room, introduced me, and told me to talk with her and build a relationship with the patient so they will tell you about their health. I sat in there with her for two hours running through every possible conversation topic they had taught us and I still ran out of conversation starters. Finally after the two hours I went and found my instructor who had forgotten about me. My peers had been running around doing fun stuff (taking vitals) all morning while I had been talking to the same person.

She was a lovely person but I was severely disappointed because that was all I got do.

This semester has taught me that you truly can love and hate something so much it hurts. Nursing has consumed life but I honestly don’t think I would change it.

ECHOES

5

Editors-in-Chief Britteny Johnson Jaidlyn Bookout Section Editors Jessie Adkins Katie Hiers Krystal Hopkins Victoria Holcomb Business Manager Brooke Criswell Photo Editor Francisco Franco Graphic Design Editor Alex Snipes Reporters/Photographers Calab Holder Christian Miller Danielle Rambo Eric Cavanaugh Hailey Carson Holly Jensen Kendal Bainbridge Megan Figueroa Nathan Vorce Rachel Cottone-Dungan Tanner Hochstetler Taylor Crinklaw Tiffany Ferrer Will Schademann Circulation Manager Jessi Borwick E-Tube Executive Producers

Jazmine Orellana Kate Hiers

E-Tube Producers Cara Ireland Jordon Yearian Keowa Coleman Tina Huynh Multimedia Specialist Joseph Vrenick Adviser Gerry Appel The Echoes is published by the newspaper staff of Abraham Lincoln High School, and exists to serve as an open forum for the students, faculty, administration and community.

All state and federal laws regarding the publications of student materials shall apply, and the Echoes will not publish materials which also fall under the guidelines established by the Council Bluffs Public Schools system, and are deemed libelous, obscene, or a material and substantial disruption to normal classroom activities.

The views expressed are not those of the Council Bluffs Public Schools, faculty, or administration.

Any student, faculty, or staff member wishing to contribute materials will need to submit a letter to the editor within deadline restriction; however, final publications is at the discretion of the staff. Letters to the editor are encouraged, and must be 400 words or less in length and signed; letters will be printed as received. Every attempt will be made to verify the authenticity of the author, and no anonymous letters will be published.

Advertising will not be accepted for all products or services that are illegal for minors to possess or utilize. Advertisers wishing to reserve publication space should contact us by :

Phone 712-328-6481 ext. 425 Facebook ALHS Echoes Twitter @ALHSJournalism Website www.ALechoes.com

Member Publication

Feature 7 Students speaking out on adoption during November 6

Spread Designed By Britteny Johnson

Presidential proclamation brings about new awareness this month

By Kendal Bainbridge Reporter

November may seem like one of those run of the mill sort of months; but it is a very important and nationally known month, as it is National Adoption Awareness Month. Even within AL there are many students who have been adopted.

“Many people think adoption is not a good thing, while some think it is funny that your parents do not love you enough to keep you. This is not true. Adoption is one of the best things that a person could consider. It shows the children the capability of love for that child, the “chosen” child. Adoption makes them feel special! Without it, I would not be where I am today,” junior Sarah Smith said.

What exactly is National

Adoption Awareness Month, one might ask? Every year, the focus is on raising awareness of the thousands of children and youth in foster care waiting for adoptive families! Each year the President of the United States sets aside November as National Adoption Month with a Presidential Proclamation. In addition to this, many state governors also issue proclamations in an effort to raise awareness of the need for loving and permanent homes for children in their states.

Activities and celebrations are kicked off with a Presidential Proclamation. While efforts made at the national level certainly can help build awareness of adoption, participation in local programs, events, and activities by those with a direct connection to adoption can often be the most effective way to promote positive perceptions. This

helps the society to draw attention to the children in foster care who wait and hope for permanent families.

Not many people know what National Adoption Awareness Month is when asked, even those of whom were adopted.

“I had no idea what Adoption Awareness Month even was; but now that I know, it is so appreciated that the president took those children and put them into consideration! I think it is a great idea that he took the time out of his schedule to make time for those in need.

I’ll start doing all those activities that they set up,” sophomore Yazmin Davis said.

The activities that one can do to help spread the awareness of this program is to follow the set activity plans. They started on Nov. 1 and on that first day the custom is to share ones family story online, and on Nov. 2 one lights a candle as a family for children in foster care who

are still waiting for adoptive families with different daily activities up until November thirtieth. If one wants to show their support then one might participate in a few of these day to day activities.

Millions of children today are still in need for a home to call their very own. National Adoption Awareness Month provides those children a way to know that they have the support of people and will give them hope that they will be adopted. One can help those children in need by spreading the word and becoming more aware.

“I feel that adoption is very important because some people are fortunate enough to be able to have there own kids, while some people have kids that they can’t support or are unfit to be parents. No kid should grow up with a lack of parenting or necessity and by adoption hopefully some, if not all, of these issues can be taken care of,” junior Billy Ehrenberg said.

“Adoption is one of the best things that a person could consider. It shows the children the capability of love for that child, the ‘chosen’ child.”

-Sarah Smith

“It is so appreciated that the president took those children and put them into consideration.”

-Yazmin Davis

Graphic by Britteny Johnson Photo by Alex Snipes

National Adoption Awareness Month Activities for November Friday, November 22 Call your local adoption agency and ask if there is a family who needs mentoring as they wait for a child to be placed

in their home.

Saturday, November 23 National Adoption Day! Sunday, November 24

Have fun with a book about adoption as a family and enjoy the craft and recipe that goes along with the story.

Monday, November 25 Search for music with an adoption theme on the Internet.

Tuesday, November 26

Ask your child to write a letter to his birth parents.

Have your child think of questions, tell about himself, and about your home. Include hand drawn

pictures and photos. If unable to send, keep for a possible future reunion. His birth parents will cherish this gift.

Wednesday,

November 27 Donate books about adoption to your local or school library.

Thursday, November 28 Thanksgiving.

Enjoy with family and friends. Go around the table and take turns sharing about what you are thankful to have in your life this year.

Friday, November 29 Decide as a family to join a toy drive or sponsor a waiting child for Christmas. Join the holiday rush to shop and buy

some items for the toy drive or sponsored child.

Saturday, November 30 Donate book bags and/or suitcases to a local foster

care agency so kids don’t have to use trash bags when moving home to home.

Information gathered from: http://adoption. about.com/ od/adopting/ a/30daycalendar. htm

8

Britteny Johnson | Feature Page Editor

Feature

Echoes

Preparing for the educational future

By Holly Jensen Reporter

F

uture jobs and plans can be different for students fresh out of school but there are plenty of options for everyone.

Heading into the military, choosing to enter the workforce directly after high school, or continuing

on to college are just a few of the choices available. The impeding idea of the future can be a little scary but with a little help, the road to the future can be a little less intimidating.

“I think the first step should be that they take quizzes out there like personality tests to just kind of see what their interests are,” Sarah Steinmetz, TAG coordinator said.

The online quizzes can be a useful asset to a confused student and help lead good second step is organizing

high school classes taken.

This organization can lead to a more narrow idea of what’s most interesting, shows which classes still need to be taken, and help plan out the rest of high school. High school classes are important to help guide students and further careers beyond high school.

Once the classes are narrowed down to the necessary and extra classes then students should look into jobs and career clusters that are interesting and explore those fields. This also

narrows down the classes to take in order to get the most out of highschool.

“I’m curious about things. I’m curious where technology, biotechnology, and how far other things will go,” senior Garrett Smith said.

After finding a job that’s interesting it’s time to look at colleges that give the best education but that’s not the only thing to think about.

There are many things to consider when looking into a college like, the size or population, possible majors,

cost, and atmosphere. Of course this isn’t everything but they are some of the major points.

Another thing to consider is visiting colleges. This can show the heart of the school, staff, and how each student would fit in.

Once a student has chosen the right college the next step is to look into scholarships. A very important government funded grant called the FAFSA or the Federal Application for Student Aid, is available for all to apply.

After the taxes for that year are handed in, students will receive a certain amount of money based off what was turned in. FAFSA isn’t the only scholarship available and it could take a little searching to find the right one for you but even the smallest scholarship means less money you have to pay.

With the right preparation the future can be a little less daunting and a whole lot easier. With the basic path to a career laid out it leaves each person to fill in the blanks.

Cano-Pargas said.

Some students that volunteer at the hospital have career aspirations in the health field.

“I volunteer because I want to get experience in a hospital environment because I want to go into nursing. I thought that this would be a good thing to do because of the experience but also because I like to interact with the different patients,” sophomore Sydney Wilson said.

Since we are coming up on the holiday season, many people are getting into the holiday spirits.

Unfortunately, there are some families and individuals that do not get the same opportunities that most people have. Junior Diana Schrader brings joy to some of the sick children at Mercy Hospital.

“I dress up as Rudolph

and bring blankets to the children in the hospital,” Schrader said.

Schrader has been doing this for two years and she says she loves how she brings smiles to the kids faces. This is something she decided to do on her own and as of now has no regrets about it.

“Well, I always dress up for the holidays anyway, so I decided why not make it fun for the kids,” Schrader said.

With volunteering comes responsibility. At Jennie Edmundson Hospital, the teen volunteers do simple but helpful acts to make a nurse’s job a little easier and a patient’s stay more comfortable.

“I do what I can to make hospital patients feel more comfortable and make the hospital run smoother,” Cano-Pargas said.

Examples of some tasks the volunteers do are: refilling

patient water, talking to patients, getting juice for patients, running errands for nurses, restocking pop machines, answering phone calls, and a few other things.

Sydney stays busy with a variety of duties at Jennie Edmundson.

“When I volunteer, I go around on my designated floor and refill patients’ waters, stock towels, deliver flowers, help bring patients where they need to go in wheelchairs, and things like that.” Wilson said.

Volunteering is also good for college applications and looks good on resumes. There are many reasons why it is good.

“It shows good time Junior Diana Schrader in her Rudolph costume that management skills and she wears to bring blankets to children in the hospital. also shows people you are Photo by Jessi Borwick willing to go beyond the bare minimum,” counselor they are and shows that they people the opportunity to Sharon Crawford said. are giving something back to meet other people who are Volunteering gives their community. interested in the same things

Students volunteering more than just seasonally

By Jessi Borwick Circulation Manager

Volunteering is a selfless act that someone does to help and bring joy to others without receiving a physical payment in return, like money or gifts.

Many people have different reasons why they volunteer and different ways to do so.

Some volunteer year round, students volunteering at the hospital are just an example.

There are also special volunteering opportunities over the holidays.

“I like making individual people happy and I enjoy hospital settings. I originally started volunteering because I did not feel like I was doing enough extracurricular activities,” junior Daniel

Life before teaching at AL:

Cartoon by Tiffany Ferrer

By Danielle

Rambo Reporter

There are lots of teachers here that have been teaching for a long time, and then there are teachers who have had different jobs before going into teaching.

One of the social studies teachers here at AL Ted Hennings, had a different job before going into teaching.

Hennings was in the NFL, playing for the Chicago Bears as a defensive tackle.

Hennings playing in the NFL, Frascht running for reality tv

Ted Hennings, social studies teacher, during his NFL football career with the Chicago Bears. Photo submitted

by Ted Hennings “I have either played or helped coach football since the 4th grade,” Hennings said. “It was just like any other job, except I would play football for eight hours everyday.”

Not only was he always into football but he was into teaching as well.

“I have always wanted to teach,” Hennings said. “I had a really good Social Studies teacher that inspired me to do so.”

However, Hennings has not given up football altogether, he is currently coaching at Creighton Prep.

Kelly Frascht, who is one

of the English and Sociology teachers, was planning on being in a reality show.

All was going well for the show until 9/11 happened, which affected many shows and movies. Many were moved back on release dates and a few shows even got cancelled, including “The Runner” which was the reality show Frascht was going to be apart of.

“I was very disappointed that the show was cancelled, it was a unique challenge,” Frascht said.

The point of the show was to run across the country from one part to the next.

There are also chasers and the point was to not be caught by them. An example of what would happen in the show was where the contestant had to get to the next part of the country was to pose as an airline stuartist to get on a plane and not get caught by the runners. They weren’t able to air the show because 9/11 caused problems for the premise of the show.

Frascht was already a teacher before she had her chance to be on the reality show. She was allowed clearance from central office to take a leave of absence to film the show. Other things

that caused problems for the show was security. After the 9/11 attacks, security was extremely tight, which made the whole point of getting to different parts of the country

very difficult.

Although many students may think that teachers’ lives are not that interesting outside of school, but their lives can be just as intriguing.

Entertainment

Echoes

Jaidlyn Bookout | Entertainment Editor

9

Catching up with Lincoln Volume

By Holly Jensen Reporter

Lincoln Volume, the show choir at AL, is starting off its season with early morning practices and Monday practices that can keep them working well into the night. Even though their first performance isn’t until January the choir is hard at work.

In show choir there’s lots of work that goes into putting a show together, from learning choreography and the music that will bring the show to life to fund raising and team bonding that’s necessary to bring the group together. Behind the curtains of Lincoln volume is a council of students that show a special kind of leadership and eagerness for the group.

These leaders are there to express the opinions of the group and help answer any questions, one of those leaders is senior Eric Cavanaugh.

“Show choir is literally

Show Choir students rehearse “Survivor” by Destiny’s Child. Photo by Francisco Franco the best thing to ever happen to me and it’s a joy,” Cavanaugh said.

Each member of Lincoln Volume shares a passion for singing, dancing, and the glee club way of life. The shared interests bring a sense of family and togetherness to

the group. Each singer’s individuality is cherished as well when it comes to helping one another with not only show choir but other things as well.

“Show choir is finding people that absolutely love the same things you do, connecting in a different way

than talking,” senior Sara Borgaila said.

This upcoming season Lincoln Volume is creating a theme of triumph with songs like “Carry on My Wayward Son” and “Survivor” on their set list. Each song is paired with unique dance moves

aimed to capture the audience and judges’ attention at every performance. It can be a challenge to get a high score when faced with the intense competition but some members keep the basics in mind instead of the impeding crowd.

“It’s a lot of fun and you get to be someone besides yourself,” junior Maddie Kinney said.

Show Choir physically gives a stage and a song but mentally it brings each person out of their inner shell.

For some it’s a challenge to channel this inner star but for others it’s just another piece of their natural personality.

Each members can find their own favorite parts of the show choir gig but it’s not all show tunes and sunshine.

“The most challenging part is the repetitiveness of choreography and singing,” Borgaila said.

Show choir can be an inspiring activity that can speak to people through not only song but dance as the matching members of Lincoln Volume give their all to bring the audience to it’s feet.

It can present challenges and triumphs and this season will be packed full of contests, concerts, and shows but their smiles will lighten up the stage at every performance.

Echoes staffer interviews Brandon Routh How did it feel when you became Superman?

“Amazing! Surreal. You know, everyday I put the suit on it was still kind of crazy to believe I was portraying such a legendary character but it was great. I mean all the love in this comic book store (Omaha’s Krypton Comics) and all across the United states and the world, there’s so much love for Superman and it was amazing to be a part of that and knowing that people look up to Superman and I was able to kind of continue his legacy.”

What was the best part of filming the movie?

“Oh there so many best parts you know. It’s kind of like the gift that keeps on giving. It’s great to come here and see kids and adults alike, kind of excited to have some part of the Superman legacy and share in that and to entertain people.”

Did you have to go through training?

“I did a lot of training, a lot of lifting weights, eating right and that was months and months of that to get into super shape.”

Was watching the first Superman movie as a child an inspiration that led you to this role?

“Oh, absolutely. When I heard there was an opportunity for a new Superman movie and I was the right age that they were looking for, I was on it. People had told me when I got to Hollywood that I kinda looked like Superman so I had that in the back of my mind like, “Oh, maybe I could do it who knows, maybe I can fit the character.”

How did you get through high school?

Photo submitted byJoe Vrenick

By Francisco

Franco Photography Editor

Brandon Routh is an American actor born in Des Moines.

Routh attended the University of Iowa but later moved to Los Angeles with hopes to pursue a career in acting. Rough appeared in multiple TV shows and in 2006 landed the role of Superman in the film Superman Returns.

High School’s tough, you know. We just watched “Bully,” my wife and I, which is a tough movie to watch but it’s a huge issue for kids. There is something much greater outside of high school. It seems like it I came from a small town where everyone knew me. I was not the most popular kid but I wasn’t the least popular kid, I guess, but I didn’t have a lot of friends outside of high school.

I kind of hung out by myself when I wasn’t playing sports and things. Life gets better when you get out of high school. Know that you’re awesome, no matter what anybody else says and stick with it.

If you could pick any superhero to play from any comic who would it be and why?

If you could pick any superhero to play from any comic who would it be and why?

“I don’t know, all of them (superheros). I don’t know, Captain America is pretty cool. Chris Evans is doing a great job, but the backstory for him is pretty neat. I mean the Americana aspect of it is kinda fun and he’s not completely super so it would be interesting to play a character that didn’t have as many abilities as Superman and who’s a little bit more in touch with his humanity.”

What was the first comic book that you ever read?

“Well, it’s silly, but it was when Archie Comics came out with the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles series. So that was back when I was 12 maybe, so that was ‘94 or ‘93. (I’m) not a hardcore comic book fan.”

What was the first superhero movie that you saw?

“I’m sure it was Superman: The Movie when I was 3 or 4.”

Entertainment E Student creates art through drawing 10

choes

Jaidlyn Bookout | Entertainment Editor

By Taylor Crinklaw Reporter

A

round the world there are many amazing artists being discovered at younger and younger ages. One of the newly discovered artists is sophomore Hunter Hale.

Hale has a shared display case full of his original artwork outside the art classrooms. Like many other artists, Hale started drawing at a very young age. He enjoys drawing realistic, black and white drawings; he has even done some self portraits.

Hale has also taken requests for drawings from fellow students.

“I enjoy the older look of things, and I like the challenge (of realistic drawings).” Hale said. Many

artists use art as a way to calm down or express their emotions. Hale, also falls in this category.

“I love the feeling of drawing, its one of the only things I can focus on. I always draw when I’m upset, it intensifies the emotions I use,” Hale said.

Art teacher Heather Mauer has taken many artists and helped them improve their skills; Hale is one of these students.

“It is very important for a student to share their artwork with the general public. Some might argue that it’s not art if you don’t share it. When an artist shares their work it is a very personal experience. Sharing art is not unlike sharing a poem or story in front of a class. It causes you to reflect on your work and how others might experience it.”

A select few students have

Artwork drawn by Hunter Hale and Trevor Dicolandrea Photo by Eric Cavanaugh

actually had their work shown in the displays in the English wing. Many have had the opportunity to have their artwork shared on display, an artist can have their own display or share it with a fellow student. Everyone around the school is able to view the work and that can be very scary to think about ones artwork is being shown for the whole school to see, how would one deal with this? It can be extremely nerve racking for anyone.

“I was very nervous, once they’re in the display everyone can judge you, and I hate being judged,” Hale said.

To have a display one must show a passion for the work that they do, one must also have many different works of art.

“You can’t just make one cool thing and expect to get it on display. You have to

show passion and a bulk of work,” Mauer said.

There are two different paths that artists take, they either pursue a career in the art world, or their art is simply just a hobby.

“I would love to see my art take me somewhere, I come from a family of artists. But is it my number one goal?

No,” Hale said.

Being an artist and having an artist as a friend can be a difficult thing, but also very rewarding and beneficial to both artists.

“It’s nice because when I want some criticizing or advice we can sit down and talk about it, and vice versa,” sophomore Trevor Dicolandrea said.

Students are encouraged to check out the artwork in the display cases and more student artists will be featured in a spotlight later in the year.

Bad company vs the new world order

By Joe Vrenick Multi-Media Specialist Part 1 of 4 I’m waiting with part of my battalion in the helicopter, machine gun in hand as we fly into downtown Chicago. Shaking knees and sweaty hands on my gun, I’m feeling nervous because I know death is waiting for me once we get into the city and those doors open.

It doesn’t help that the song “Bad Company” continues to play on the radio, remind-

ing us that our division of The Resistance is “The Bad Company.” I try not to let the music bother me and remember how all of this started.

On January 23, 2016, a group of terrorists known as The New World Order, lead by someone known only as HIM, made their name heard around the world via television. The first NWO attack hit Manhattan the next day. Bombs were let off and NWO members fired off rounds into panicking crowds. As the National Guard came in to clean up

the bloody mess, they attacked a second time in San Francisco, a third time in Miami, and a fourth one in Austin. The National Guard was in a scramble and the nation was in full panic mode. We then learned that this wasn’t going to stop. A special program was created to assist our military and attack the NWO head on. The Resistance was born.

The director of the program, who I forgot his name and never met face to face, split The Resistance into four different divisions.

Science/tech, they create

the Mechs and specialized weaponry. Clean-Up Crew, they clean up the messes we create in battle and tend to the wounded.

Command, they fund and control everything in The Resistance (The Director and General Samson are the only ones in Command who fight in battle). And there’s your typical soldiers. The grunts that go into battle.

There are three divisions of soldiers that you can be put into once you’re accepted into the group. There’s the Grunts, basic frontline pawns that take the first

bullets. The Bad Company (which is what I’m apart of), the ones that parachute into battle right after it’s raged for about a half an hour. And there’s Command. They’re the directors and leaders that step in and actually fight for their country.

The helicopter shakes violently for a brief second.

The NWO is firing at us from below with turrets. The helicopter to the right of our engulfs in flames right in front of my eyes! “Brace for impact” yelled the general.

“It’s gonna be a rough landing!” Another helicopter on

the right is taken out of the air. It spirals to the ground, managing to take out a turret by crashing into it. This is insane.

We safely, but roughly, land on the ground. Everybody is scrambling to get out of the helicopter since we are being fired upon. I calmly get up and try not to panically rush myself.

You’re more likely to get shot if you panic. We’re all standing, weapons ready as the hatch opens. The sound of gunfire greets us.

End of Part 1

Taking a look at the district art show

By Christian Miller Reporter

A

rt is both a beautiful and acquired talent, but those who do possess ability produce the most interesting pieces. The District Art Show was on Oct. 22, at the Educational Service Center. Many students from throughout the district had the opportunity to present their works for faculty, even though many artists who had pieces could not actually attend.

“I had a construction paper-selfie, it took like three weeks to make, and when it had been accepted into the art show I was so excited,” sophomore Mya Doty said.

Photo submitted by Heather Mauer

“Getting pieces into the Art show further any Educational Possibilities or Artistic Recognition. When your artwork is out there for people to see you get exposure you otherwise would have never received had your work not been on display! I think this is a great opportunity for these students and for people to be able to see and take in some really inspiring work,” art teacher, Brittany Ridenour said.

As formal as the District Art Show was our school is holding a much more inclusively involved art show this year. The school plans to have two art shows, and the first one will be on Dec. 13.

Auditions will spread from

now until Dec. 1, contact Mrs. Mauer or Miss. Ridenour to do so, and auditioners should bring their talent.

The theme will be “Venetian Masquerade” Hooplah, so presenters, artists, and even guests are urged to make and wear their own masquerade apparel, however they do not have to.

There will be lots to see at the art show! There will be many genres of music, art on display (some may possibly even be for sale), face painters, and much more! The art show will be a great experience for those who went to last years. The art show is open to all, come join this unique and fun way to celebrate the arts.

Sports

Echoes

Krystal Hopkins | Sports Editor

11

Bringing the pep indoors

Dance team practices choreography of their latest dance.

Photo by Francisco Franco.

Dancing to state competition

By Tanner Hochstetler Reporter

The dance team, originally called the “pom” team, has been around since the early 1900’s to help pump up the crowd. This summer the dance team attended a dance camp where they received an invitation to nationals, superior ratings and gold place on routines, spirit stick, the innovative choreography award, seven All American Nominees, three “top gun” winners in the areas of kicks, turns/ leaps, and hip hop, and 4 dancers chosen as members of the All American Team.

This season the dance team has mixed up their dances a bit. Adding more technique and more dances to basketball, football, and other sports.

“We try to bring different dances to different games every time,” junior Kaylee Willadsen said.

The team has been given Division I ranking, which is the highest ranking award

given to those who perform to the degree of a college level. At the upcoming state dance competition the expectations will be set high for the whole team.

“I feel like our team will be able to pull together clean routines and we will be able to place higher than last year,” sophomore Abbigail Harding said.

The state competition for dance will be held Dec. 5 through Dec. 7.

“We are very excited about state, it is always the most challenging and competitive part of the year and it is great to see the dancers rise to the occasion,” dance coach Mallory Vanderhelm said.

Last year the dance team placed third in the state competition. The dance team will be performing production, jazz, hip-hop, and pom routines for state.

The production theme is superheroes this year, and Kaylee Willadsen will be featured in the production routine as “Batman”. “We usually have a theme and with the rising popularity of superheroes we decided to choose Batman,” Willadsen

said. The team is anticipating the state competition, but are working everyday to prepare.

“Last year we faced a lot of great competition and this year they are gonna come back just as good if not better so we have to do the same,” Willadsen said.

The solo portion of the state competition for dance team took place on Saturday, Nov. 2. The dance team came back with many Division I ranking awards.

The members of the team that performed a solo were, Abbigail Harding, Olivia Burgher, Kirsten Darrington, Kaylee Willadsen, Jamie Cash, and Mia Wheeler.

Senior Kirsten Darrington reflects on her state solo experience.

“My favorite part of solos was sending my sickly mother a photo of Olivia Burgher, ‘14, and my Division 1 medals,” senior Kirsten Darrington said.

With the solo competition passed, the dance team looks forward to the state competition. The dance season is only halfway over. They have prepared for state, and have a few tricks in mind to “wow” the judges.

Cheer team practices group and individual stunts during practice.

Photo by Eric Cavanaugh.

By Krystal Hopkins Sports Editor This time of year marks a change of seasons as well as a change for the cheerleaders; as the weather gets colder they gather their warm-ups and pom poms from the field to move indoors. When the athletic season ends for the football players, the cheer season is only halfway done. With basketball season beginning they now have the responsibility of cheering on the sidelines. During this time the JV and reserve team learn the new basketball cheers, and JV and Varsity learn new eight counts that will be performed at each game. Cheer has most of their longer practices during the summer where they learn the cheers they need for the season. Therefore, most of this time is spent brushing up on stunts and tumbling.

Coach Lisa Fidone also goes over the new rules and expectations.

“I try to get most everything accomplished during

the summer so those are a little more intense than during the school year,” Lisa Fidone, cheer coach said.

“We also work on cheers and I’ll break those down so their motions are sharp, foot placement and body placement is where it needs to be and anything else that needs to be cleaned up.”

Because the cheer season lasts from summer till February the team has quite a bit of time together between practices and games that they become a family.

Freshman Abbie McIntosh can already feel the support from her teammates.

“I like that I have all the girls on the team there for me,” McIntosh said.

The team won several awards two summers ago at their latest UCA (Universal Cheerleading Association) camp they attended over the summer. They received first place on their home routine as well as their extreme routine. Other awards include top awards for their daily cheer and dance evaluations. Individual awards were also given to senior Jaidlyn Bookout, who won

second place in a jump competition. In addition to those awards two members on the team, Bookout and Kendra Jankiewicz were chosen as All-Americans.

Last year there was also a competition cheer team but this year there is not. However, there is talk of a joint cheer team between Abraham Lincoln, Lewis Central, and Saint Albert for those who want to be on a competition team. It is still in the early stages, however the idea has been said to be going over well with the possible members.

As the end of the season approaches, the seniors on the squad have mixed feelings on the end of their high school cheering career.

“I think this entire year is really bittersweet, I’ve really enjoyed my time in high school and I don’t really want to see the end, but I’m excited for a new beginning,” senior Lexie Nadler said.

As the cheerleaders tumble into the second half of the season the girls are working to finish out the season well.

Students joining club sports in addition to school athletics

By Hailey Carson Reporter

While most schools offer a variety of official sports, students can also participate in a variety of club sports.

“Club sports are organized sports outside of school,” sophomore Merzedes Hart said. “They generally have a high fee.”

When joining a club sports team, one would have to try out. They generally cost more than school sports because some teams have to travel a lot for games and there are different fees players must pay, including practice field and coaching fees.

The amount also depends on the coaches coaching level. Another difference between school teams and club teams is that school sports practice everyday but club teams usually practice about once or twice a week.

Maddison Kinney ‘13 blocks the ball, and kicks the ball down the field during her club soccer game. Photo submitted by Madison Kinney Junior Madison Kinney says that club sports are more competitive but the actual rules and how the game is played is the same.

“The teams are harder, and you have to be a better player to make the team,” Kinney said.

Mike Cheney, soccer coach of one club team, says that club sports help to better prepare student athletes for higher levels of the sport.

“They give players more of

an opportunity to challenge themselves,” Cheney said.

“The greater the challenge the better you become.”

He encourages his players to participate on the school soccer team as well. A school team usually plays other teams in the same area, whereas club teams can participate in tournaments, and get national recognition.

A soccer tournament has different divisions for teams to compete in. If a team

wins in division two, they will move up to division one. After that, they would advance to the premier division.

Junior Joseph Northup plays on a club basketball team in addition to the school team.

Club sports give Northup more exposure to college scouts but at school games, the team has support from the crowd.

In a basketball tournament, you could play people from

all over. Everyone who enters the tournament is divided into different pools and play each other to decide which bracket teams will be competing in. Gold is the best bracket, then silver, and bronze.

Some teachers at AL coach some of the sports teams but they aren’t allowed to coach a high school club team. Joel Nelson is one of the mathematics teachers but he also coaches school

football. Therefore, he could be involved with different age divisions but otherwise it is against the rules.

There are some sports that are not as popular therefore the school does not offer them such as rugby. For students wanting to participate in these sports they would need to join a club team.

Club sports give students opportunities for different and more competitive sports than what school sports offer.

Sports

12 Fitness Center under construction Echoes

Krystal Hopkins | Sports Editor

Another option for area athletes being added to the Mall of the Bluffs

By Caleb Holder Reporter It’s hard to believe that the Mall of the Bluffs opened in 1986, but for the past couple of years the mall has experienced hard times. Many businesses and shops closed, one of these businesses being the Barnes and Noble bookstore, but a Planet Fitness is going to take the place of the latter.

Council Bluffs is already home to another fitness facility--Crossfit Vise.

However, the style of workouts and the price are polar opposites. CrossFit Vise, located at 1718 Madison Ave is considered a top tier fitness facility and calls for a $100 per month

fee for being a member.

In addition, there is an on ramp fee just for getting to know the exercises. At CrossFit Vise the workouts are planned and are new each day.

With Planet Fitness you only pay $10 a month and do whatever workouts you want. Planet Fitness is also home to a menagerie of workout equipment, as with CrossFit Vise your body is the equipment. Sophomore Collin Schulze goes to CrossFit Vise, but says that the arrival of the new facility is a plus for many athletes.

“Now they won’t have to rely on using the school gym, and they can go to different places, with different hours,” Schulze said.

Freshmen Cole Gallo also goes to the CrossFit Vise

facility, but regardless of the facility, he believes a place to workout is essential.

“At a fitness facility you have a teacher who knows your individual strengths and weaknesses.

And, around these strengths and weaknesses, your teacher provides workouts that are individually fit to a particular person’s abilities,” Gallo said.

The arrival of Planet Fitness will offer just another exciting and new opportunity for an alternate fitness experience, free from the constraints of time and location.

Furthermore, the arrival of Planet Fitness will not only have an effect, in regards to athletics, but it was also have far-reaching business implications.

Junior Noah Larsen believes

Construction on the new fitness center Planet Fitness. Photo by Eric Cavanaugh that the new facility will begin to lead the mall on to a more suitable path of success.

“While I’m not the biggest fitness person, I can see the appeal of a fitness center.

Every little bit counts, and I think Planet Fitness will be a step in the right direction for the Mall of the Bluffs.”

Larsen doesn’t consider

Planet Fitness as a game changer, but considers the recent purchase of the mall

by Namdar Realty Group to be a factor in future success.

“I probably don’t consider Planet Fitness to be the turning point, but I’d consider the ownership change a turning point; and I’d imagine a full on anchor store or two to be considered

turning points. However, I still think it’ll (Planet Fitness) be a helpful asset for the bettering of the mall’s current condition.”

In addition to giving athletes a more convenient fitness facility, Planet Fitness will also offer a chance for the mall to recover after years of closing businesses and financial losses.

Football fans competing in their own games

By Will Schademann Reporter

When watching football is not enough for the biggest fans, they may turn to fantasy football. Fantasy football is an exciting way for fans and their friends to battle it out in a football related activity.

To start a team a player would need to sign up on a online sports organization

and chooses their players by drafting them. They are then scored by how well their drafted players perform that week. The most popular athletes or the ones that go “off the board quickly” include Vikings running back Adrian Peterson, Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers, and Bengals wide receiver A.J. Green. Fantasy football is scored on a week-by-week basis, which can be time consuming for team owners.

Junior Joseph Northup is one student that is involved in fantasy football.

“Fantasy Football is an exciting way to pass the time and compete against your friends and allows us to enjoy the sport of football.

(Another thing) I like about fantasy football is the trash talk my friends and I have during the season.”

During the football season many take a lot of time out of their day to check

up on their team, whether it be adding players, dropping players or benching players to make their teams stronger week-by-week.

“I check my team every day and keep a watch out on what my opponent for the week plays and how our teams play on a week-byweek basis,” Northup said.

Robert Riggs, Freshman Football Coach and life skills Teacher, believes that fantasy football allows fans

to become more involved in the NFL. “Fantasy football is a way to get involved with the NFL when there is real no die hard reason to follow the games if you do not have a favorite team.” Riggs said.

Riggs believes fantasy football is one way to stay in tune with the NFL season.

“I enjoy the fact it gives me an excuse to sit and watch football, hang out with friends and joke around with

them more than I would if I was not in a league. It also forces me to stay updated with the NFL news.”

Both Northup and Riggs agree that fantasy football is a time consuming task in the fall during the NFL football season. From scoring to drafting players, a person who can’t get enough of football, can get even more involved in it with fantasy football.

Athletes finding ways to manage busy schedules

By Nathan Vorce Reporter

Student athletes are very common, many students participate in a least one sport throughout the year. However, while all these athletes are busy learning new techniques and skills on the field or courts, they also h a v e

lots of work to do during the school year. There is a limited amount of time in the day for an athlete to practice, do homework, and whatever else they may have in their schedules. The key most athletes have found is balance.

One person that deals with the dilemma of maximizing time for his homework with his athletic life is sophomore Joshua Vrenick, who participates in both baseball and football, as well as taking two CE and AP classes each.

“I try to balance homework and sports by trying to do as much homework as possible in school, then if I have time after practice, I will do homework then too. I usually have on average two or three assignments

every night, which I do from about seven to nine every night.”

Some students also have the added stress of working a part time jobs while in a sport. Junior Ryan Edmondson maintains a job a t

Menards, and participates in golf and baseball at school, as well as boxing and karate outside of school.

“I work 20-25 hours a week, so it can be hard sometimes to find the time for school work with work and sports, but Menards is flexible, so it’s usually not too

Photo Illustrations by Francisco Franco

hard,” Edmondson said.

Teachers and administrators realize the struggles that some student athletes h a v e with a l l the activities on their time. Athletic director Jeff Novotny says that students who participate in multiple activities and sports s h o u l d have enough motivation to participate in sports as well as group activities.

“Students involved in any activity usually do a good job staying focused and organized. It take focus and dedication,

but it seems kids are usually more focused when they’re involved in multiple things.” Novotny said.

Finding moderation in work and activities can be helpful to students looking to make the most of their high school experience, while maintaining their sanity.