Abrahamlincolnechoesissue9 2014

ECHOES

Issue 9 | Volume 113 April 2014

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

Homework heading into online age

Graphic by Britteny Johnson

Audrey Hays Reporter

Only about two generations ago when today’s parents were still being raised, technology was a limited source for some families.

H

aving the availability to access the World Wide Web in just a few minutes now envoked a spark. Teachers are trying to get technology junkies under control, but how can they stop students from expressing oneself no matter the way they do? Scrounging and curious minds have begun to form an idea away from lined paper. The Chromebook, a device that has nestled among this district for

several years, to some, improved the flow of things.

There has been a noticeable difference surrounding the classroom walls, and it seems to be catching on. Why avoid diminishing haphazard, time consuming, heapful jumbles of work when it can be all organized digitally on screen and found in a single place?

“Everyone thinks if you had technology it’d (homework) be better, but everything would be the same” Principal Todd Barnett said. “As long as technology is teaching to

2013-14

ALECHOES.com

the curriculum, it’s great.” esides from the high administration view, teachers unveil their feelings towards students use of the Chromes. English teacher, and club leader of A.L.L. IN, Samantha Adams explains her thoughts on where technology headed.

“I think that’s the direction of the world, so it only makes sense that education follow that direction of being more technology based,” Adams said. Not only is literature appearing online, Biology teacher, Dan Whaley, observed the role of technology as a whole.

“I think it’s important as the world depends more and more on technology that we incorporate it into our classrooms, not train our students but to prepare them

B

Upcoming Events

for a world where they’re going to be expected to do certain things,” Whaley said.

“The world’s technological, so I think our school’s have to be technological as well.”

Based on a Google Form that was sent to all students, results show that 92% of students said yes to Chromes being more incorporated in the classroom. 156 students responded and some students shared their thoughts through the survey:

“I think it’s nice sometimes because you get immediate gratification, but it’s also kind of annoying when you learn it one way on paper but you have to put it into the computer differently,”

“I personally like it because you really can access it anywhere you are on any device rather than having a book and paper with you,”

“Okay, but I think it’s much easier offline and people pay more attention and get more work done instead of putting it off,”

W

ith technology becoming more incorporated to some individuals either in the

workplace or schools, it seems to be a high intention that certain understanding needs to be learned in order to better the use.

“I think that can be helped by having teachers trained in classroom management using technology for students again,” Adams said. “I don’t ever foresee the Chromes or devices going away, we just have to get better at managing them.”

For more on computers and the addiction they create, see page 2.

May 10:

May 23:

May 31:

Prom

Seniors’ Last Day of School

Graduation

News Echoes 2 NHS helping students get involved Jessie Adkins | Nathan Vorce

Nathan Vorce Reporter

National Honor Society (NHS) is a program for students looking to go to higher levels of education in the future who want a way to showcase their skills in school and in school activities as well.

“National Honor Society focuses on four main principles- leadership, service, character and scholarship,” NHS sponsor Brian Moritz said. “They (the students) develop these skills through service projects such as going to the Hitchcock Nature Center, having bake sales

and by collecting donations for an Adopt a Family program.”

Invitations are sent out for students who meet the requirements for applying.

Applications can be submitted by anyone who has maintained a cumulative GPA of at least 3.5 through at least four trimesters of high school. Keeping active in service work for the community and being involved in school activities can also help improve applications.

“When I first got the invitation, I was a bit iffy because I tried sophomore year and didn’t make it. But after talking to my friends

April 2014

and family about it, I applied again, and got in this time.

The killing point for me sophomore year was lack of involvement,” junior Noah Larsen said.

Larsen is excited to get more involved in the program in his senior year.

“I can’t wait to help the new members when they are inducted next year like the current members did for me.” said Larsen.

New members go through an induction ceremony dinner in March, which is attended by them, the current members, and guest speakers. Students can apply any year except fresh-

men year, which can mean some seniors can be involved for a short period of time before graduating.

“I applied this year because it’s a leg up in life,” senior Natalie Wilson said.

“You can put it on college applications, when they see NHS it says a lot about you without having to tell them a whole lot about yourself.”

National

Honor Society continues to be a fantastic way for students to obtain valuable

knowledge about becoming involved in their school and community.

Photo submitted by Bob Hansen

Technology addictions limit classroom interactions Danielle Rambo Reporter

The first thing that comes to people’s minds is drug usage as a big high school addiction--but the smallest thing has become the biggest addiction yet. Many students get on their Twitter or Facebook accounts in class and are constantly checking them, but the question is why are we as a generation so caught up in social media?

“I think we as humans want more information and information on other people. Twitter and Facebook are two sources that give us

that,” junior Ladasia Griffin said.

Social media can be a big distraction from class time, but it can also have its good sides when students aren’t in class. Not a lot of people may watch the news, and Twitter or Facebook are two social media sites that always have people talking when big news events happens. It’s a fast way to learn about things and it even allows people to get in contact with old friends or friends that have moved away. Even though social media is helping us stay in contact with people, it can lead to bad habits of

constantly staying on during class.

“Controlling yourself and taking specific times to check your phone works,” Griffin said. “For example maybe check it after you do a problem or even a worksheet.”

Dirk Waller, a history teacher, is constantly having to remind some of his students to put away their devices.

“There’s this one girl who will be on her computer while I’m giving directions and when she’s finished being on her computer she always ask me to repeat my-

self,” Waller said. “It drives me absolutely crazy and there’s at least one kid per class that does this.”

With a lot of people involved with social media, it seems like it would be hard to overcome since everyone is addicted.

“Before social media, kids back then just dealt with addiction to drugs,” french teacher Laura Catron said. “Now since everyone is glued on to the screen no one notices that there is an addiction.”

Teachers struggle a lot with kids and trying to pull their attention away from

New program helps transition new educators into district positions Calab Holder Reporter

The new teacher mentoring program that has been instituted in the Council Bluffs Community School District is now hoping and aiming to work with first and second year teachers who are new to the game of education.

Within the Teacher Leadership Compensation program (TLC) there are six different teacher leadership roles including Instructional Coaches, Curriculum Specialists, Model Teachers, Program Leaders/Trainers, Department Chairs/Lead Teachers, and Teacher Mentors.

The reasoning behind the Teacher Leadership program is that the program will ultimately result in a better system of managing and implementing curriculum in the district while providing support for refining classroom management and offering new teachers many career paths and choices.

The inception of the Teacher Leadership Compensation program occurred in the Iowa House and Senate when a specific bill was passed that aimed at providing more support for new first and second year teachers in Iowa. According to the law, every year districts

in Iowa that represent 1/3 of the student population of the state will be included in the program until all districts are included by the 2016-2017 school year. Funding and capital for the program has been provided based on a district’s student count.

The purpose of the program is clear: to assist first and second year teachers by providing support and training in the application of district curriculum while also giving regular feedback and conducting observations of their assigned teachers.

“The Mentor positions will work to support new teachers in new and exciting ways; dedicating more time with targeted intervention specifically aimed at new teachers. The Instructional Coaches are currently and will continue to be a support system for new and veteran teachers as they work to implement curriculum, make changes to their instruction, monitor student learning, etc. I am very excited about the possibilities the new positions hold for our teachers and students,” said Assistant Principle, Bridgette Bellows.

According to an annual personnel report to the Board of Education in November of last year, of the 68 teachers hired in the 2012-2013 school

year, 13 left the district in their first year of teaching.

Of the 36 teachers hired in the 2011-2012 school year, 10 left the district in their first two years of teaching.

Also, of the 30 teachers hired in the 2010-2011 school year, 12 left the district in their first three years of teaching.

A district census of teachers in the district in November of last year made it apparent that 39% of teachers in the CBCSD district have been teaching in the district for 5 years or less.

Although there has been similar programs instituted in the past, this year’s program is uniquely different.

“In the past, Mentor teachers have taken on the role of mentor along with a full teaching schedule. Next year, Mentors will dedicate all of their time to new teachers. They will be available for things such as co-teaching with a new teacher as they try to implement a new teaching/learning strategy, support with our instructional model, classroom or time management, etc,” Bellows said.

Armed with new tools and new unprecedented support, teachers to the CBCSD district can now be better trained for their teaching career.

8 Mentor Teachers: Kelly Frascht Janine Crain Brittany Hettrick Sue Martin Linda Nikkel Brenda Peatrowsky Mary Beth Runge Denise Shipp

12 Secondary Instructional Coaches: Amanda Jens Lisa Chambers Nick Davis Jessie Deveraux Ryan Loots Wendy Lutz Deb Masker Penny Matusezeski Julisa Novotny Marleen Peterson Erica Schnepel Anne Vetter

their electronics and back on to school.

“The best way to pull kids back in is to be positive about it and make class seem more compelling than whatever is happening on their screen, Catron said.

For Catron she always had kids that choose to be on social media instead of paying attention in class.

“There are kids constantly not paying attention and putting off everything in my class,” Catron said.

“Then when the bad grades finally come out, they all come back to me complaining about why they have a

bad grade in my class.”

So there is an agreement that social media has basically taken over and a few kids are starting to catch on that it has become a problem.

“It seems like every single day there are at least 80 people on Facebook whether it be their phone or computer,” sophomore Jacob Swanson said. “They always find a way around the block to get onto Facebook.”

As the problem of social media becomes an ever increasing problem, teachers and staff are looking for an effective way to deal with this crisis.

Meet your new student council Sophomore Delegates: Wendy Dang Alea Dorsett Paige Holeton Selina Juarez Ben Jones Katie Pregon Junior Delegates: Emma Leisinger Sara Widick Sydney Wilson Junior President & Vice President: Mary Davis & Kevin Lin Senior Delegates: Brittany Hutchens Kaitlyn Murphy Kaylee Willadsen Senior President & Vice President: Kelsey Cheney & Jessica Contreras Senior Secretary: James Keller

9 Curriculum Specialists:

Student Body Treasurer: Libby Neal

Bob Hansen Carrie Nepple Amy Anderson Brant Anderson Rob Dittmer Deb Fetch Michaela Hill Carrie O’Donnall-Brink Karen MacVey

Student Body Secretary: Ellie Croson Student Body President & Vice President: Michaela Jones & Scott Brown Some chair positions still being decided.

Echoes

News

April 2014

Jessie Adkins | Nathan Vorce

Former Lynx becomes Titan Nathan Vorce Reporter

Three years ago, head football coach and weights teacher Justin Kammrad announced his resignation from teaching and coaching here at the school. Later that same year, he retracted his former statement and decided to stay with the school.

Following this year, however, Kammrad announced that following this year, he will

be leaving the district to go teach at Lewis Central, where his children go to school.

Kammrad broke the news to the football players on April 7.

“I’m disappointed to see him leave, he’s taught my strength and conditioning class and coached me in football for two years,” sophomore Joshua Vrenick said. “I’m disappointed that he’s leaving, but he’s making the right choice for him and

his family,” Vrenick said.

Students and staff alike will be impacted when Kammrad leaves, but no one more than the football players and assistant coaches.

“He’s a great coach. He knows a lot about football, and he’s had a huge impact on our team,” assistant football coach Joel Nelson said. “(Activities Director Jeff) Novotny has a tough decision to pick the new head

coach.”

Nelson hopes that the players can grow quickly under the new coach.

“Once we get the new coach soon, we’ll get started training in the summer and the players can learn the new coaching philosophy,” Nelson said.

Kammrad leaves behind a record of 33-27 and 6 playoff appearances during his head coaching tenure of 6 seasons.

3

Coach Justin Kammrad. Photo by Franco Francisco

Special Olympics provides opportunities Hailey Carson Reporter

Dallas Church 16’ races to the finish line. Photo by Eric Cavanaugh.

The Special Olympics track and field event took place at Iowa Western on April 8 and included softball throw, standing long jump, shot put, and 50, 100, 200 meter dash. Over ten schools from Southwest Iowa, including Kirn, Wilson, TJ, and Hoover, gathered to participate. Senior Megan Rewolinski took part in the softball throw and 50 meter dash.

Slam Poetry opening up minds of students Calab Holder

writing original pieces improves our writing. Slam Poetry gives people, in general, a excellent place to share their work and get constructive criticism,” said junior Patricia HarteThe great American poet Maxwell, a participant in Carl Sandburg once said: Louder than a Bomb.

“Poetry is the opening and Harte-Maxwell also closing of a door, leaving believes that those who there are key look through differences to guess about between Slam what is seen and “Poetry is the opening and Poetry during the other school moment.” closing of a door, leaving those activities.

As an “ A s who look through to guess about extracurricular someone who activity, what is seen during the moment.” also does Louder than Speech and a Bomb performs other Slam Poetry -Carl Sandburg people’s work is currently as well as Slam s t r i v i n g Poetry where I t o w a r d s perform my encouraging own work, they get to be individuals. I students to I can say that both are suppose getting comfortable open the doors of their fun and exciting. The big with one’s self is the mind and provide a unique difference, however, is that ‘essence,’” Mandelko said. glimpse of their thoughts and in Speech you’re judged Additionally, Slam feelings through the writing on your speaking skills, in Poetry provides a perfect and performance of their Slam Poetry you’re judged forum for young and aspiring personal works of writings. on your own writing as well writers to present and perfect “My favorite part is as your speech,” said Hartetheir writing and speaking listening to the truly creative Maxwell. skills. writing skills that the The dual effectiveness “Slam Poetry benefits students have. Students that of Slam Poetry as a unique me by giving me performing I never thought would be writing and speech outlet are experience. Even though performance writers came currently allowing and will I don’t plan on going into out of the woodwork and continue to allow students drama or becoming an really surprised me,” said another creative and artistic actor, it’s great experience Steve Mandelko, the sponsor channel of expression. for public speaking. Also, for Louder than a Bomb Reporter

Poetry.

Mandelko also thinks that Slam Poetry strengthens one’s confidence and selfawareness.

“I am not sure there is an ‘essence’ to Slam Poetry.

It allows students to present their personal viewpoints in poetry form. Therefore,

“I like running because I can run really fast,” Rewolinski said.

All the participants received medals for participating and the top spots got ribbons and get to go to state. According to sophomore Alexandria Hughes, who tagged along to help out, the award ceremony was the best part because everyone was excited. Junior Lauren Colpitts also went to help take kids to their event and make sure they were

ready to go.

“My favorite part about helping would have to be seeing the kids so happy and enjoying the day that was specially made for them,” Colpitts said.

Not only has the Special Olympics event given students a unique opportunity to engage in a enjoyable competition, but the event has provided those students with a friendly atmosphere where they can act freely and express themselves.

“They were just so happy to even be participating,” Colpitts said. “It was truly an amazing experience.”

Other events like bowling and basketball take place at different times of the year. There are a variety of different events for different interests and abilities.

“It’s a great event that the kids are proud to take part in,” Alison Kennedy, Special Education Teacher, said. “It gives their parents something to showcase their talents.”

BULLIED? THOUGHTS of SUICIDE? WE CAN HELP.

Talk to a trained counselor right now.

Remember, you’re not alone—we’ve helped hundreds of teens just like you.

CALL (855) 581-8111 CLICK YourLifeIowa.org TEXT “Talk” to 85511*

*Texting is available every day. For program info, text HELP to 85511.

To opt out, text STOP to 85511. Standard message and data rates may apply.

4

Victoria Holcomb | Dani Rambo

Opinion

April 2014

Echoes

Students debate vacation vs. staycation Leaving city over breaks Victoria Holcomb Opinion Editor

V

acations can be a truly breathtaking experience. Traveling somewhere new without boundaries, being able to try new foods and a different atmosphere is diffidently something everyone should experience at least once. They can be used for many reasons; to relax and lay back, to have fun or to try new things.

I personally love going on vacations, it gives my family and I a chance to connect while enjoying ourselves. Everything from the long car rides with way too many snacks and printable games to pass the time to exploring the hotels and trying new foods. Plus, once you get to your destination there are so many things to do, no matter the city. Being able to say you’ve been in a new state or country can be a story within itself.

Staying in town for a “staycation” leaves you with little opportunities to experience new attractions

and get out of the usual day to day experiences.

Going out and traveling into a new places bring an adventure to the hometown Council Bluffs kid. Every city will be famous for something from the Statue of Liberty to the Golden Gate bridge or a significant landmark like Niagra Falls or Mt. Rushmore.

Going away from home gives you a new perspective into the life of an average person living there.

Vacations create something different from your everyday life and create a underlying chance to experience all somewhere else has to offer other than your usual sights. Being on a vacation, gives people an excuse to do something different, stay up late, wander through a city, without a worry about what time it is.

Depending upon the place you visit will depend upon what you will experience, but it will always be

some sort of an adventure.

Whether it starts down pouring on your sunny day or you drive past an active tornado, every day of your vacation is something to remember.

Sitting at home watching tv is something to enjoy when there is nothing else to do. Or trying to make your own experiences at home can be fun, but you are able to experience those anyday.

Where traveling to a new place doesn’t always happen and creates a new atmosphere for a while. You can forget about everything for a while and just relax, get away from everyday life.

Staying home for vacation Holly L. Jensen Reporter

To some, the idea of staying home is no way to spend your vacation but to others it means freedom. It means relaxing, catching up, and doing what you want.

A staycation is the better option compared to leaving town when considering cost, making every second count, and knowledge of the surrounding area.

The cost of a plane ticket or for several tanks of gas to go out of town compared to the cost of a few nights out is easily in the hundreds, leaving the out of towners feeling sore in the wallet.

Those who choose to stay in town can spend their money on fun dinners, shopping, or something they’ve always wanted to buy but had no excuse.

When you are facing down a four hour drive to your destination and back that’s eight hours plus time you spend packing, getting the car ready, bathroom breaks, and getting settled in once you reach your destination. All this is time spent

wasted when you could’ve been cozy inside a blanket fort eating Nutella sandwiches and watching Netflix until you can’t see straight.

Vacation time is a precious commodity and spending it miserable in a car is a shame.

Unless you want to spend your vacation wander-

ing aimlessly, hoping that you don’t forget where your hotel is, it’s going to take some research. Get ready to look for places to spend your time and hopefully enjoy it, along with the other tourists that decided to visit the only thing worth visiting in that town. It’s most likely a

historical site or amusement park. When you perform your staycation the research can be optional but it can also be a way to learn about where you live, even something as simple as visiting the only museum in town or you can visit one of your favorite places. Maybe it’s the vacuum cleaner store, who am I to judge you and your love of vacuums?

A vacation is a time for you to recharge and no matter what you do that’s what you have to keep in mind.

Sometimes just staying home is the best idea for the busy bees in need of time to just sit around taking selfies and rewatching the Harry Potter series. Whether you spend it eating Nutella or in a museum it’s for you to take a break and do something that you enjoy.

Echoes reporter struggles to write opinion column Attemping to write as an unexperienced newspaper column writer

Nathan Vorce Reporter I love writing for the newspaper, I really do. But when it comes to asserting my opinions into a column,

that’s where insanity ensues.

I have tons of opinions floating around inside the distorted void that is my brain.

So I thought it was a good idea to have a column where I could share my thoughts about my viewpoints on life and all it encapsules. But when I started to begin writing it, I got nowhere. While I worked on papers and stories for the newspaper and other classes, the column keeps nagging at my mind. Eventually, I found that none of my ideas had enough sustenance to meet the word count. And after weeks of debating on

what to write about, I found an answer at last!

Opinion column writing is torcherous. I don’t consider myself a bad writer by any means, but this sort of writing is not up my alley.

Most of the time I assert my opinion I get off on way too many tangents and end up confusing myself and anyone else who happens to be listening. And in column writing, there’s only so much room for tangents, and the main point would be garbled up by them anyway.

I respect anyone who can proclaim their opinions in

writing and submit them to their peers. However, I can happily say that kind of writing isn’t for me. And when my senior column rolls around at the end of next year, you might very well be reading the word “word” plastered all over the print.

It’s not lack of opinion or just me being lazy, it’s trying to topple a castle with a pebble, something that cannot be done.

These revelations brought me to where I am now, writing this lovely opinion column about despising writing opinion columns.

They are too time consuming to write, and I could have saved 15 percent or more by switching to Geico in the time it took me to write this. It would make spoken sense to say that opinion columns would be easier to write because there are no boundaries to abide by, within reason, but this is not the case. While other stories for the newspaper have an outline to follow, opinion columns are in a foreign world, and it is up to the writers to shape the stories as they see fit. And that just drives me nuts! I have to

have some sort of guideline to follow, otherwise everything just seems chaotic and out of place.

However, if you’ve read this far, you probably realize that this column is almost over, and that despite all my complaining, I finished it anyway. However, long after I’m done writing this and someone suggests to me writing another column, they will receive a brisk “no” for an answer.

depression and with the help of a therapist, she started on her road to happiness.

She grew up in a “normal” family, and had a relatively quiet childhood. She was shy and tried hard to please the people she cared about.

She laughed a lot, trying to make everyone, including herself, believe that she was happy all the time when in reality, dark thoughts plagued her mind at the end of the day. In an attempt to relieve herself of the suicidal thoughts that made her feel worthless and lonely, she got into drugs and alcohol. Well, she tried. Thankfully now, but regrettably then, she was caught in one of her attempts to get a substance. The sight

of seeing her mother cry, hearing her friend’s disappointment in her actions, fear of punishment, and the aching loneliness she felt, it was obvious that Grace needed to talk to someone.

When questioned about her motives for drinking she told the truth that she had tried hard to hide and she began attending weekly counseling.

Just talking and getting all her emotions out made her feel better because she didn’t over-think as much and she had someone who she knew cared about her well being, even if it is their job. Given advice on some problematic issues in her life, including her parents’ divorce, she had a renewed positive outlook

on things.

Is the glass half full or half empty? One of the keys is to be optimistic. Looking for the good in things will make you happier. Of course you would be depressed if your focus is on all of the negatives. Grace suggests that people who struggle with this should try writing down things that you are grateful for, or good events from your day. Sometimes she felt like there was no tomorrow because she was so worried and upset about some things. She got it off her mind by thinking about an upcoming event she was excited for. Making plans helped because she could look forward to it.

Keeping emotions all bottled up inside was probably one of the worst things Grace realizes she could have done.

She never heard any different sides on the situation so she would constantly think in circles, unable to come to a decision. For example, she debated on whether to share her problems. If she did, people might see her as attention seeking. If she didn’t, she may never understand what she was feeling or how to try to improve her mood. Talking about it to another trusted person helped because they offer their opinion and a different point of view which amazingly opened up her mind. When she was feeling especially

bogged down by thoughts, she would write her feelings out, and then reading it back, she felt more in control of things.

These tools worked for her and may work for others, but including your own hobbies and likes might make it more effective. If writing isn’t your specialty, maybe drawing or something else is. If your problem is serious, seeking professional help is recommended. As alone as you may feel, there are people who will help and no matter how depressed you are, suicide is never the answer. If you need someone to talk,call the National Prevention Suicide Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255.

(But honestly, it wasn’t that bad)

Dealing with depression throughout high school

Hailey Carson Reporter Depression is when feelings of sadness, loss, anger, or frustration interfere in everyday life for long periods of time. It’s not just temporary sadness, it is a mood disorder.

A few years ago, Grace was diagnosed with clinical

Echoes

Opinion

April 2014

Victoria Holcomb | Dani Rambo

ECHOES

A Note to Our Readers:

Behind the scenes with the Seniors T

he year is winding down again, and on the Echoes that means that the current editors step aside and let the new kids step up and work on their first issue all by themselves. (With some help if needed, of course) So, we thought we would give you a quick little inside look into the making of the Echoes newspaper and all the changes about to ensue.

Many of you don’t even know who the co-editor-inchiefs were this year, but we’ll let you know who it’s going to be next year.

Let’s start with how we actually produce a paper.

Step one; story ideas.

For one to two days the newspaper staff gathers around the whiteboard and discusses what is going on in the school and surrounding areas. This usually gets hectic and we may get off topic occasionally, but somehow we always manage to get a full paper worth

of stories. Once we decide all the stories, we have to assign all of them to the many reporters and editors on staff.

Step two; designing, writing, and getting photos.

From the minute we assign stories until the actual day we ship, people are working to design the pages that will be shipped off and eventually passed out to the school. First we draw out our vision on paper and, once we get a thumbs up from Journalism Adviser Gerry Appel, we jump on InDesign and create our works of art. While the page editors work on their pages, and possibly their stories, the rest of the staff works on getting quotes and information to make their story the best it can be. Roughs are due usually a week after stories are assigned, at which point they are copy edited until we just can’t stand reading the stories anymore. One week

later and the final drafts are due, hopefully, ready to be placed on the pages.

Now that all the stories are done and ready to have a final look over from Mr. Appel, we have to get all photos taken and placed on the pages. Somehow, no matter how hard our photographers work, photos are always the last few things we worry about before shipping. (Well, that, and the occasional late story *insert grumpy face here*) Step three; ship the dang paper. This part usually requires a few of us to be up in the newspaper for hours on end. (This is now a really big thank you to all of the teachers that have allowed us to work during your classes. You have no idea how much it helps. Thank you!) After hours and hours, and lots of stress, we finally put the whole thing together and send off the PDF file to our publisher. This is the moment where there is

a huge sigh of relief in the newspaper room, also, we usually shout, “We shipped the paper!” a few times.

Step four; give you all the paper. Seriously, that’s it.

We just distribute the paper to you guys and cross our fingers that you all like it.

Now, let’s talk about the changes that are going to occur. Around the beginning of February we send out an application for the next year’s staff to apply for different positions. (For example; Editor-in-Chief, News section editor, Opinion section editor, etc.) This is probably the saddest part of the paper, handing off our positions to the new kids.

We do know that they will be the best people for next year though, for example; Jessi Borwick and Nathan Vorce will be the 2014-15 Co-Editor-in-Chiefs. They will make sure the Echoes is just as good as it’s ever been. We trust them.

The last issue of the year

is the senior issue, Echoes Forever. We will be doing a normal issue with 12 pages that next year’s new editors will produce, and the Echoes Forever section, that the seniors will work on exclusively. This is when the new kids get to dive into their new positions and show us a glimpse of how great they will be next year. We know we have given you a staff that will produce such incredible papers next year.

Now that you know what goes on behind the scenes, maybe next time you pick up a paper you will feel the love, and hard work that goes into every issue.

Thank you for allowing us to do what we do, and checking out our papers this past year. For those who will be here next year, enjoy the papers that our wonderful staff will produce for you. Don’t worry, we’ll be checking them out too.

We are Echoes Forever.

Consequences of illegal drinking and usage

Francisco Frano Photo Editor In humankind, there is always going to be a state of mind in which a person chooses or thinks that someone is better than someone else. Even if they deny this, humans also jump to conclusions and choose to forgo the facts. So when we as people see this, or

Melanie Krohn Alumnus It’s a busy time of year for high school seniors.

You are trying to decide on a college, you’re thinking about majors, you’re starting all of your final high school papers, AND you’re trying to find a prom date, make sure you have everything you need to graduate, and prepare for a major life

believe it’s happening, we sometimes think that those people are being treated better than others.

With some incidents that have happened this year some students have been thinking about the penalty system. I have also been thinking about our administration because they are the ones that deal the punishments. I thought that they might have some biased opinions due to their relationship to a student, the activity the students are involved in, or how well a student does in school. So I went deep into our school’s code of conduct and looked at the punishments and policies, but I also talked

to the administration to get their side. Assistant Principal Jeff Novotny, the one who deals with these matters, shares possible consequences for students.

“On school property every case is individual, so it depends a lot of times on whether they were under the influence or not. Normally it is a ten day suspension that we reduce down to five days if they go and get some treatment, if they go to some AA, Alcohol anonymous meetings or some drug anonymous meetings. So if they make an effort to try and correct the problem we will reduce the suspension,” Novotny said.

This was a shock to me

because I thought people got off the hook due to how they knew people in the administration. So I wondered if being in a sport also had something to do with the treatment received.

“Eligibility-wise, you know whether it is on school grounds or off school grounds, it’s all the same. It is a three strikes consequence system: first time you’re caught it’s a fourteen day ineligibility of your next activity. Second offence is 42 days and a third offence is a whole calendar year and they stay with you all four years,” Novotny said.

In the code of conduct there is policy 612 which

states the consequences and procedures followed by the school. It also states that the administration deals with punishment.

“We try to do whats best for each individual kid. It really does depend on the situation, but the bottom line is that we’re trying to help the kid and the parents and figure out what’s the best way to do that. Thats why every case is individual,” said Principal Todd Barnett.

I talked with these people noticing that we jump to conclusions without knowing the facts. We assume that there are biased opinions in the system, and we should get the facts straight before we speak.

change that you may or may not be aware of yet.

I remember those days.

I’m watching my sister go through them now. It’s exciting, it’s bittersweet, it’s busy, and it goes by way too quickly.

During my senior year, I applied to too many schools.

My friends told me that then.

I liked to keep my options open at the time. Having that many options was so fun. I was receiving all kinds of mail, a new decision letter every week (hopefully with a “yes” and money attached), and I was ending my high school career with

a bang. I decided on Loyola in Chicago, which I was so excited about. I was thinking about the glamorous big city life I would experience and all of the new things I would do and friends I would make and classes I would take.

And most of all, I was so excited to get out of Council Bluffs and see more of the world.

Little did I know how difficult would it would be at times. Coming to Chicago and Loyola was a great decision – I grew as a person more than I ever imagined I would, I learned a lot about myself and about other people, and I have had experiences I will never forget. Despite all of these positive aspects, I found myself in a rut. I struggled in deeply personal ways

to make the most of my time here. I wasn’t making friends like I had hoped to, Chicago was so far outside my comfort zone that I wasn’t happy no matter where I was in the city, and I just didn’t find myself making a connection. It didn’t feel like home.

I just made the decision to transfer colleges last week. I’m coming back to the Council Bluffs area, to Creighton, and yes, I’ll probably have to move back in with my parents, at least for a while (which isn’t that bad!). For some reason, this decision was tough for me.

I had formed such a close attachment to Loyola that it felt like by deciding that the school wasn’t actually for me, I was losing who I am and who I have become.

That’s why it took me two years to make this decision – I was afraid of admitting that a personal and life-changing decision wasn’t the right decision for me anymore because I’d let it define me.

So to all of you high school seniors deciding on a school, I will tell you: Don’t let your college decision define you. Let it become a part of you. It’s okay to get excited about it. It’s okay to invest yourself in the opportunity. It’s great to expect so many positive things out of it. But if you’re settling for a choice that is not your number one or that you’re not completely sure about, remember that it will be what you make of it.

And change is always okay.

You’ll always have another chance to change your mind.

College doesn’t define ones true self

5

Editors-in-Chief Britteny Johnson Jaidlyn Bookout Section Editors Jessie Adkins Krystal Hopkins Victoria Holcomb Business Manager Jessi Borwick Photo Editor Francisco Franco Graphic Design Editor Eric Cavanaugh Reporters/Photographers Alex Snipes Audrey Hays Brooke Criswell Calab Holder Christian Miller Dani Rambo Hailey Carson Holly Jensen Kendal Bainbridge Kirsten Darrington Logan Erwin Nathan Vorce Tanner Hochstetler Taylor Crinklaw Cara Ireland Circulation Manager Will Schademann Multimedia Specialist Joseph Vrenick E-Tube Producers Ali McDougle Hayley Leonard Taylor Daugherty Los Ecos Cristhian Orozco Francisca Aguilar Raquel Lopez Ricardo Lopez-Pantoja 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

6

April 2014

Feature

Spread Designed By Britteny Johnson and Jessi Borwick

7

2nd Annual Autism Awareness 5K: fundraising through games, food, fun

O

Britteny Johnson Co-editor-in-chief

n May 3 the Council Bluffs’ Autism Support group along with the Council Bluffs’ YMCA are hosting the 2nd Annual 5K run and 1 mile walk to raise awareness and funds for Council Bluffs and Lewis Central School Programs for Students with Autism and the Council Bluffs Autism Support Group. The 5K will be held at College View Elementary School and will have face painting, art activities, clowns, balloon animals and much more. One way that this 5K has been getting noticed is through the help of Katherine Reckling, PE/Health teacher, who titles herself as just a “mouthpiece” for the 5K.

“Someone sent it to me as a Physical Education teacher and I became interested because I know we have students in our community that have autism. I’m also kind of passionate about doing brain-based

Elementary School Principal, Trudy Evans, and Council Bluffs/ Green Hills AEA Autism Consultant, Lori Durand, about starting something similar to what Omaha was doing that would benefit students with

200 people participated in the one mile last year, which helped raise over $2,500.

With thoughts of last year’s success, this year’s goals are aimed towards the same thing.

“Our goal is to increase Autism Awareness in the

“Our goal is to increase Autism Awareness in the Community, and raise money for autism friendly events and activities and educational supports for children and families with Autism,” -Lori Durand, Council Bluffs/ Green Hills AEA Autism Consultant research,”Reckling said. “As a Physical Education teacher, (I’m) trying to find something that will link us all together.”

Last year was the first year for this fundraiser, and it was created quite quickly. It all started with LaShawntea Ray approaching the Rue

Autism in the Council Bluffs and Lewis Central School Districts. With the idea in place, it took only one month for the Council Bluffs’ Autism Support Group and the Autism one mile at Rue Elementary to be created.

According to Durand, over

Community, and raise money for autism friendly events and activities and educational supports for children and families with Autism,” Durand said.

Last year was only a one mile walk, but this year a 5K was thrown into the mix. With

a longer run was the need for a longer trail. The event was moved to College View Elementary for easy access to the trails around the school.

Some of the many groups participating in the 5K are the Council Bluffs YMCA, running clubs from some of the elementary schools, and even sports teams from A.L. One student explains why they were interested in joining in.

“Em (Emili Davis) and I have a cousin that has Autism, and we usually do the Buddy walks,” senior Ericka Davis said. “Since my cousin has Autism, it has opened my eyes to those kids.”

For those interested in joining in the festivities, there is still time to sign up, just visit www.cbautism5krun-walk. com for more information.

April is Autism Awareness Month: Things to know about Autism:

*Autism becomes apparent in the first three years of a child’s life.

* Autism is the result of a neurological disorder that affects normal brain functions. * It affects the development of communication and social skills. * Those with Autism are shown to share genetic traits with those who have ADHD (attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder), bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, or clinical depression.

Information gathered from http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/info/autism/

8

Britteny Johnson | Jessi Borwick

Feature

April 2014

Echoes

Taking a look into the life of a new teacher

Sampalis transitioning into new life Taylor Crinklaw Reporter

E

lena Sampalis is a new teacher this year and teaches Child Development, Fashion, and Foods 1. Many of her hobbies outside of school involve animals, dogs especially, and being outdoors. She is a foster parent for dogs

through the Nebraska Humane Society.

“I love to work out and I love animals. I enjoy being outside and staying active,” Sampalis said.

After graduating from Ball State University in Muncie, Ind,, Sampalis took the summer to just relax, later starting work here with her first teaching position.

Sampalis hasn’t always lived in the Council Bluffs or Omaha area. She grew up in Chicago, so moving here was very drastic. Not only did she have to start a new job where she knew no one, but had to become a lot more independent, now that she was in a new state. Sampalis is the youngest of three, with an older brother and sister.

Her family was very active growing up, something that obviously stuck with her as she grew older and moved away from her family.

Sampalis always has a smile on her face and seems to have hit it off with many of the students here.

“I think she’s a good teacher, she is nice until you make her mad,”sophomore Mya Doty said.

Students haven’t just commented on her teaching, but also on her as a person.

“I think she’s a good person and always tries to help you in whatever way she can,”Doty said.

Overall, Sampalis seems to have made a smooth transition into life in Council Bluffs and at A.L.

Elena Sampalis, Family Consumer Science teacher helping a student during class. Photo by Francisco Franco

Working at the zoo new experience for students Cara Ireland Reporter

There are many ways for students to find jobs these days, some ways are a job fair for teens, hearing about jobs on the radio, relatives or friends, and when some of the workers come to local schools to tell them about the job opportunities. That’s exactly how the zoo recruited some students here: one of the zoo workers came to A.L. and talked about openings for the summer.

Some of the students took the opportunity and applied at the zoo, and some of the students got called about having an interview done. The interviewing process is different from a regular interview one would have at a different job. “(The interview was)In a group, it wasn’t terrible. I didn’t like it, it was scary,” junior Spencer Schmitz said.

Desert Dome at the Henry Doorly Zoo. Photo by Eric Cavanaugh While the interviewing process seemed scary, the orientation process was easier and more relaxing.

“We watched a hour and

Proximamente:

a half movie and we learned about the important people at the zoo,” junior Diana Schrader said.

After having gone

through orientation and being interviewed, new employees are ready to start training for their responsibilities.

Orientation can differ from

employee to employee, depending on what the employee’s job is.

“It was easy. I work concessions, so all I do is

make food,” junior Kelley Welch said.

Working at the zoo can be tiring, but it can also be fun because employees get benefits for working at the zoo.

“You get a free membership for your family, a 30% discount on everything, and 60% off everything for Christmas,” Schmitz said.

The benefits are nice and all, but it also helps that the employees can choose the hours they work depending if they are in school.

“During the school year I only work on the weekends, but when summer starts I can get more hours in,” junior Kaylee Willadsen said.

Working at the zoo, no two days are alike.

Employees work with different people they have never met before. At the zoo, employees who are students in high school still have flexible hours, so none of them miss school. If you seek a job beyond school that involves animals, working at the zoo could be a good experience.

Echoes

Entertainment

April 2014

Jaidlyn Bookout | Kendal Bainbridge

9

Iowa High School Music Association Krystal Hopkins Sports Editor

Every season, new sports come and go, however the music programs at our school go year round. Just like the big football games are important to fans, the Iowa High School Music Association competitions are a big deal to any high school musician.

IHSMA’s (Iowa High School Music Association) mission is to highlight talented young performers and provide musical opportunities for them to be evaluated nonbiased on their performances. All music-based clubs are able to be part of this association; in A.L. that includes all types of choir, band, and orchestra. The association offers opportunities for A.L. students to compete in large groups as well as small groups and as a soloist.

Band has participated in many IHSMA events and are currently in the process of preparing nearly 45 entries for the state solo/small ensemble competition held at T.J. as well as the large group festival for concert band that will be held at A.L. Jared Thompson was one A.L. student who was able to attend last year’s All-State. The All-State band consists of approximately three hundred participants.

“We practice before, then

when we get to Ames we do chair tests to get placed when we get there,” senior Jared Thompson said. “I was 9th chair for trumpet out of about 30.”

They have also received Division I superior ratings at State competition 16 consecutive years in jazz band, 14 in concert band, and 15 in marching band. They are hoping to continue this pattern at competition this May. Choir, also a part of the IHSMA competitions, has

taken advantage of performing for a judge to better themselves.

Choir teacher Lynne Boyd believes these competitions build confidence in the performers and puts some experience under their belts.

“In a large group, it’s easy to follow. In small groups, the students become more independent and grow as musicians,” Boyd said.

“Also, performing in front of a judge and audience in a solo or small group, no mat-

ter how scared you are, you come away with more confidence in your abilities.”

There are many events available for these vocal musicians to be a part of including show choir, concert choir, men’s choir, women’s choir, small groups, and solos.

They then use the feedback they receive to improve for future performances. IHSMA events and competitions can be both an honor and learning experience to all high schoolers involved.

Student review of Captain America Joseph Vrenick

Multimedia Specialist

Who said that superhero movies can’t also be political dramas? Well, the Star Spangled Man with a plan proved that they can be! That’s right, Captain America is back and better than ever in the latest installment to the Marvel Cinematic Universe, “Captain America: The Winter Soldier.”

The movie is set sometime after the events of “The Avengers” with Captain Steve Rodgers (Chris Evans) getting used to living in the

modern world after being frozen for several years. But getting up-to-date on things is going to have to be put on hold, as a plot is afoot under the direction of SHIELD operative Adrian Pierce (a stellar Robert Redford), and the mysterious super soldier codenamed, “The Winter Soldier” (Sebastian Stan).

Little more can be said about the plot because that would lead into spoiler territory and nothing should be spoiled about this movie. Don’t let anyone spoil it for you if you’ve not seen it.

Directors Joe and Anthony Russo (TVs “Community’) prove that Marvel can tackle any genre and make it

Photo from marvel.com/captainamerica

great. They also know how to pace a film. Each scene is intense and keeps your heart beating fast, building up excitement until you get the big reveals at the end. Performances are equally as stellar.

Scarlett Johansson continues to prove her incredible acting ability as Natasha Romanoff (Black Widow) by providing charm, sass and humor in every scene she’s in (Academy, pay attention!) Sebastian Stan’s Winter Soldier is the most cold and ruthless of the bunch. The minute he first walks in, you’re breathless.

Same goes for every action sequence he is in. However, the shinning star has to be Anthony Mackie as Sam

Wilson, AKA The Falcon.

His wit, charm, ruthlessness and humor easily outshines anybody on screen making you love the character even more than the Captain himself. My advice to the readers, all eyes on Mackie! He’s going to be your new favorite superhero.

This is easily the biggest, baddest blockbuster of the year, and one of the best films Marvel has made to date (glad to say this again, still better than “Iron Man 3”). It’s intensifying and keeps you on edge till the end. Screw “Divergent.”

“Captain America: The Winter Soldier” is the movie for the win!

2014 teen choice book of the year nominees Holly L. Jensen

Jessi Borwick

Reporter

Business Manager

The 39 Deaths of Adam Strand This book is about a boy named Adam Strand who has killed himself 39 times but it just won’t stick. One day out of sheer boredom Adam decides to kill himself and when he wakes up he’s very alive without a scratch. Now Adam’s goal is to die, the how part doesn’t matter as much as the dying part.

In the end he’s struck with reality and realizes that not even death can sever certain bonds.

Abandon # 3; Awaken

This is the third installment of the Abandon trilogy and with Pierce and the love of her life finally together it seems all too good to be true, and when the furies attack, she finds out that it is. It’s time for Pierce to face her lovers worst indiscretion: reviving a human life. His actions could turn Earth and the Underworld to dust and the only way to restore balance is to end a life.

Asylum

Madeleine Roux is an up-and-coming author, and ASYLUM is her debut novel for young adults.

It takes place in an old psychiatric ward that has been turned into a college prep facility. Dan and Abby start experience mysterious and nightmarish omens and visions. If you’re looking to settle in with a good mystery novel, then get ready to solve the eerie cases of ASYLUM.

Five Summers

In Five Summers by Una LaMarche four friends from camp are facing their last summer together, and boy is it a doozy. Each girl is facing her own secrets, challenges, and personal discoveries. After their fateful last day of camp they once again come together for the camp reunion three years later and the fate of their friendships will be decided.

Since You Asked

One day Holly’s silver tongue and sharp writing accidentally gets her a spot on the school’s newspaper with a column criticizing her school. Holly takes on high school, social exile, and her korean parents in this witty novel about finding yourself, and the people around you.

The Eye of Minds Set in an advanced world with technology beyond belief, The Eye of Minds by James Dashner, brings technology, suspense and action together in this futuristic young adult novel. “I believe it’s only a matter of time before video games and virtual reality rules the world --- for good and for bad.”

Michael is a gamer and a hacker on the VertNet, and with a cyber terrorist trapping people inside the VertNet the government has chosen Michael to help them bring down the terrorist, but at what cost?

The Program

Sloane and her true love, James, are facing down their depression and their enrollment in the Program. The Program is set in place to halt the overwhelming number of suicides that have claimed the victims of depression. Sloan and James feel the onset of depression but the Program means not only a loss of memories but each other.

E Entertainment Searching for a springtime activity

10

Jaidlyn Bookout | Kendal Bainbridge

April 2014

choes

Kendal Bainbridge Reporter

Flying as a pastime

Photo by: Eric Cavanaugh When the wind comes howling in, it’s a good time to go kite flying, because the kite will catch air better. Flying kites is a good thing to do during the spring for fun because many people find it very amusing to run with a spindle in their hand and watching a kite flutter in the air like a bird. It’s also the best time to buy the biggest and most elaborate kite one can find, like a dragon, or an airplane.

“There’s a certain freedom to it, it’s a wonderful care-

Photo from MCTCampus free bubble that reminds me of being little,” senior Trent Kutchara said. Flying kites is especially fun when one takes younger siblings out to a grassy field and lets them run loose with a kite in tow.

Kite flying can be a way to relieve stress because such “childish” behavior makes one forget their struggles.

It can be an enhancer of creative thinking, both in the making of the kite and the adaption of flying it. Kite flying is both environmentally safe and low budget.

Pedal faster to exercize

Photo from MCTCampus Bicycling is something one could do during the spring time because the weather is a perfect cool temperature, not

A family gathering

too cold, but not too hot, and a little bit of rain can help to cool down one’s body after (perhaps, if one decides

During spring it can be almost a chore to find something worth one’s valuable time. Picnics during spring can bring a great amount of amusement and give one something to do during this cool season. One can pick out a cute wicker basket (or a plastic bag will do just fine as well) a blanket, one’s favorite food and people to enjoy the meal with.

One should probably pick a sunnier day, so the food does not get soggy, and it is a more enjoyable time.

to) a rigorous workout. Or, you could go on a normal bike ride, that consists of gentle and flat ground that is calming and fun. Not only is bicycling fun, it is an easy way to get an easy aerobic exercise in without the feeling of being (un)healthy, so that is a plus. Financially, there is very minimal cost involved after a bike has firstly been purchased, and bikes are very environmentally safe due to the factor that they do not use fossil fuels, which can reduce one’s carbon footprint. While biking one can even themselves discovering new paths to ride upon, which can lead to a part of a local area one has never been to. Not only is biking a way to exercize but it’s a way to explore.

Musical notes

S

Photo by: Eric Cavanaugh One can go to the park on this picnic, or even in one’s own backyard, depending if one enjoys a particular location over the other, and the multitude of options available. Picnicking can be a way to spend quality time with loved ones, as it sometimes can be hard for some people to find the time to spend with their family.

Picnics tend to be relatively easy to plan, and often time can be a quick alternative to going out to a restaurant or cooking a meal at home.

inging inside could be fun to those who enjoy hear their one voice make music but instead of spending time inside there is another alternative. Singing outdoors can be something one could do during the spring, well, because the outside is available (quite frequently), and singing is actually a way of expressing oneself that can be fun, whether one is alone or with a group. The concept of

An outdoor adventure

Photo submitted by Scott Brown During spring, it’s sometimes hard to figure out what to do, why not go camping? Exploring the

outdoors and being adventurous is not only a healthy activity but can be relaxing to get away from the school

singing outside is a good excuse for when one has to do chores and needs something fun to do to get one’s mind off the hard times one could be having. It also can remind one of the classical movies, and bring about a better imagination (especially if one does not know the words to the song) because one has to think harder to bring those lost thoughts back. Singing outside can be both joyful and a stress reliever, and not to mention a boredom reliever.

life and to get out into the sun and take a breath of fresh air. Camping can bring a family together and help one learn vital survival skills. Camping is a way to bond with familiar members whether they be friends or family. During camping one can learn survival skills (as in the camping without your refrigerator along) or can learn how well you and your family (friends) work together and if you can stand being alone with them for an extended amount of time.

Camping is a window into several activities that could be fun as well; these include fishing, frog catching, hiking, stargaze, but also can include the roasting of marshmallows and hotdogs over an open campfire.

Behind the scenes end of the year productions Victoria Holcomb Opinion Editor

Usual high school drama occurs in the hallways daily, however, drama teacher Steve Mandelko orchestrates the “drama” that happens behind the scenes. He has been keeping busy; in the weeks to come, the drama department will be opening the curtains to Improv and Ice Cream and the Senior Showcase, featuring the Senior One Acts.

These productions take time and practice to help the actors and or performers look their best under the bright lights. Mandelko uses after school time to work with each group separately.

Improv and Ice Cream practices on Tuesdays right after school till 4. He gives the group different improvisational games to try, just as he will during the performance.

Improv & Ice Cream is a production taking place in the gym. Students and parents are invited to attend on Friday May 16; a $5

entrance fee includes an ice cream sundae with all the toppings and a show.

Throughout the show the actors are given various improvisational games to act out.

As up to date as its become, It hasn’t always been around, Mandelko started Improv and Ice Cream to draw students in to reveal improvisational talents. “’Improv and Ice Cream’ just kind of came out of no where. I was thinking of doing an improv team or show, and I wanted a gimmick to

bring people in,” Mandelko said. “So I thought, what says almost summer like ice cream?”

Another performance in May is the Senior Showcase, on the 2nd and 3rd. It’s a performance that gives students a chance to show off their skills in directing and playwriting.

Senior Trent Kutchara started drama in this past school year and grew trust in Mandelko, when Trent presented the story idea, he was on board with it from the get go. After putting together the

story line and holding auditions for a cast Trent started out on his own into directing his play.

“Directing is fun but really difficult,” Kutchara said. “No matter how much time you’re given its never enough (time), you always want to tweak something.”

Trent will take his time to rehearse his play to his idea in mind. Although will need some extra little help from Mandelko.

“He gives me tools, the use of the auditorium after school on wednesdays. Ev-

erything from the blocking and lines and figuring things out is up to me,” Kutchara said.

Whether the actors are making up responses on the spot or they are rehearsing their lines, they put so much into everything into each performance. For the seniors this may be their last performance before leaving for college. Mandelko says, ‘I want people to come to them!’ If students aren’t busy on May 16 or May 2 or 3, come enjoy the shows.

Echoes

Sports

April 2014

Krystal Hopkins | Will Schademann

11

Golfers off to a soggy, spring start Jared Holcomb

Crimson & Blue staff

Caye Schnackel

Crimson & Blue staff

Golf is off to a stormy start this season, having cancellations the due to weather, lost seniors and only eight girls filling up the roster. Sophomore Madison Valdivia, and freshman Samantha Schultz are the two new girls to the team, doing their best to help replace the five seniors the team lost last year.

“I started at the beginning of this year at the start of the season. I joined because my friend was in it and said it was really fun. I wouldn’t know the pressure on the team since I’ve not been to a meet,” said Sophomore Madison Valdivia.

The members of the team are working hard in

practice, rain or shine. The only difference between is shifting inside when they hit a day with less favorable conditions, and working on different aspects of the sport. When the conditions outside aren’t conductive to a good practice the girls end up practicing at Kirn Middle School. The team practices up in Kirn’s weight room, while hitting wiffle balls off mats against the wall. The team has already dealt with 3 postponed games this season due to weather.

“This year in golf, the best moment I got was a nice drive on one of my holes.

Last year we got all city, first place on all city so we teed our Coaches house. We just took all the tees and put them in his yard,” said Junior Sarah Walters.

Members of the team are working hard to build up to being as strong as their team that went on to win the City Championship at Fox Run in

Council Bluffs last year. And the team is ready to work for this year’s win as well, working through new team members and lost veterans.

“We lost like five seniors last year, so everyone just has to step it up. Its a different chemistry, a different mix,” said sophomore Emma Leisinger.

Some of the team members are just happy to be back playing the sport, regardless of the pressures of the season, and living up to last year’s example. They don’t take the sport lightly, but look at the more fun side of golf. Hope Philbrick ‘14 has been a member of the team since her sophomore year. Like many other members of sports, she enjoys pulling off a tough shot, or making a successful drive when playing. But to her, the best part is the social aspect of the sport.

“The best part of golf is the friendship you make on the team or the people you

meet from different schools.

You spend eight hours with them so end up getting pretty close,” Philbrick said.

Fighting through all their battles as a team, be it the the wins, the losses, the worst weather could throw, the girls on this team work through all the pressures golf may be a one man sport, but these girls will go to the end victorious, win or lose.

Emma Leisinger practices putting while waiting to leave with her team for the Shenandoah meet. Photo by Francisco Franco.

The golf team poses for a photo before departing for the Shenandoah meet.

Photo by Francisco Franco.

Sports causing student athletes costly injuries Tanner Hochstetler Reporter

S

ports are a way for students to express themselves. They provide students with healthy physical activity, and can even grant academic scholarships. These are just some positive effects of playing sports, but there can also be costs such as injuries that can be serious or sometimes fatal. They can cost time or as well as fatigue on the human body.

A recent study conducted by The National Academy of Sciences found that high school athletes are at a risk of concussions, and students who play football are twice as likely to get a concussion. Despite the protective wear that high school athletes wear during contact sports it does very little to stop concussions from happening. Though concussions are more likely in contact sports they can also occur in non-contact sports. Alex Jones (a junior swimmer) swam into a wall when turning to start another lap during one of his swim meets.

“I wasn’t able to go to the District Meet because of

my head injury,” Jones said.

“I had to basically become a manager.”

Many students aren’t concerned about the safety issues to playing sports possibly because they are busy with school work, other extracurricular activities, and/or a part-time job.

“It’s a huge time commitment to be involved in sports and you give up work hours or time you could be putting towards other activities,” Senior Jakson Cole said.

Jakson Cole, a fellow Tri-athlete (participating in tennis, wrestling, football); band member, and academic scholar at Abraham Lincoln has experienced negative

consequences of playing sports. Jackson tore his ACL at the annual University of South Dakota football training camp, and recently tore it for the second time early on during this year’s tennis season. The first resulted in his absence at the State Wrestling Competition, and the second on missing out being on varsity tennis his senior year. Though these injuries can be disappointing Jakson has recognised the dangers to any sport can be costly.

“There are going to be negative consequences to anything that you do and you got to go in knowing that there are possibilities that you can injure yourself,”

Cole said.

Playing sports can affect academic performance. A NCAA conducted study showed that students spend more time on their sports and have significantly lower GPA. Concussions also contribute to lower GPA’s.

Students find it harder to remember things during their recovery time. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) concussions make it harder to remember things and create a “foggy” mind. Abraham Lincoln wrestler, tennis player, and football player Greg Teer received a concussion during the 2013 wrestling season.

“During my recovery time I found it hard

to remember things.” sophomore Greg Teer said.

Sports injuries can be a big disappointment to the player, but it can also be a big disappojntment to the team especially if the star player is out of the game.

“When I got my concussion I felt unaccomplished and non fulfilling, but most of all I let my team down.” Teer said.

Sports can be a great way for students to stay healthy and active, and be involved in the school. By playing sports one can open up their arms to many opportunities such as scholarships or school recognition, but there are negatives that one should also be aware of.

Soccer teams kicking off the season strong

Junior Alexa Murphy attempts to score against the Atlantic goalie.

Photo by Francisco Franco to kick off the season. For the playing time this year. boy’s soccer team there is a Receiving a new Cara Ireland new head coach at the ropes, position as the head coach, Reporter spanish teacher , Jesus Rajo Jesus Rajo-Gutierrez Gutierrez. Gutierrez has a explains what he’s most chance to show his like of excited about along with this With the weather leadership this spring, and new opportunity. making a turn for the better, the boys are expecting good “(Being a coach) I and a change in the coaching changes in the practices and feel great because I like staff the soccer team is ready

leadership, so I can take my decisions for the good of the team,” Gutierrez said.

The players are eager to see how the season goes with the changes in place.

“I’m excited to see how well we can play with our new head coach,” junior Payton Scheinost said.

The girls team is also practicing at this time, and are ready to start the season off on the right foot. “(I’m excited about) Just getting out and playing again. I love playing,” junior Kelsey Cheney said.

The girls are hopeful for this season and are excited to be together again doing the sport they are passionate about. Like in many sports the soccer players have a bond created from playing with each other over the past few years.

“There is nothing better than being on the field with girls you see as your family.

We all have one thing in common and that’s the love for soccer,” senior Emerald Santon said.

Though the passion for soccer is strong on both teams they not only play with their heart but with their skill.

“I like the mixture of both (playing competitively and fun). You play with your best (skills),” senior Steven Cano said.

Soccer means there will be a lot of work involved to prepare for an upcoming match. Outside of practice, there are some of the teams outlooks on how what they do instead of training during practice.

“The team and I go outside and play different

leagues aside from soccer,” Cano said.

In agreement with the players the coaches have also kept high hopes on this season and what it has in store. “(I hope) They appreciate the team, the sport, and improve on last year’s victories.” Gutierrez said.

Keeping their determination to better themselves as a team, the players and coaches are working hard for this upcoming season.

The next girl’s game is on April 29 at 6:00 at CB Stadium and the next boys game will be on May 1 at 4:30 at CB Stadium.

Audrey Hays contributed to this story

Echoes

Sports

April 2014

Krystal Hopkins | Will Schademann

12

What Sport Do You Want at A.L.?

“Lacrosse, because no one really does it, it’s complicated and it’s fun to watch.”

“Hockey, it’s very dangerous, a lot of people would like it, and it’s winter half the year here.”

“Quidditch, because there’s something about it that is just so magical.”

- Sophmore,

- Senior,

Megan Ferleman

Emma Preston

“Men’s volleyball, because it’s time for the boys to take a stance on volleyball.”

“Street Hockey, because hockey is cool, and we don’t have hockey.”

-Junior,

- Sophmore,

Austen Claar

“Hackie Sack, it gives students good foot eye cordination.”

-Sophmore,

Marcos Jarquin

-Junior,

Nick Beck

Mason Grosvenor

Spring teams have high expectations heading into season

Sophomore Deana Roth (left) and Freshman Alyssa Bradley (right) practice hitting. Photo by Eric Cavanaugh

Will Schademann Circulation Manager

During the summer, while most students are enjoying their time off from school, the baseball and softball teams are spending their time in the summer in a different way. Both teams respectively play in the summer and consist of five grade levels, with the current eighth graders playing freshmen.

Head Varsity Baseball Coach James Larsen believes that his team has many goals for the upcoming season.

“Our goals for this summer are to finish above .500,

(which is to win 50 percent of the games played), defeat all city opponents, finish in the top half of conference, and win one game at a time in districts,” Larsen said. “If we keep it simple and take one game at a time I think our players will be successful in meeting these goals.”

Larsen also believes that in order to be a wellprepared baseball team, his players have to start early in the offseason.

“Our players have been participating in off-season workouts since November with some as early as September. We have pitching, hitting, and conditioning workouts 3-4 times a week,” Larsen said.

Just like most coaches, Larsen believes that baseball has both positive and negative health benefits for a person’s health.

“Like any sport, baseball has its health benefits and concerns. I believe that any physical activity is beneficial in my opinion. Playing in the middle of summer can be dangerous due to the heat, players having serious arm issues, and the long term effects of baseball are said to be just as severe as most physical sports. Preparing our players for the long hard season is of our top priority,” Larsen concluded.

Junior Jacob Titus has high expectations for both himself and the team.

“This year I expect us to grow as a team as well as having a winning season.

We’re going to be a pretty young team this year, mainly made up of juniors, with only two seniors on the team, Titus said.

Titus enjoys baseball because of the distraction baseball creates during the summer months.

“I enjoy playing baseball because it gets my mind off of all the little things surrounding baseball. It’s a game where I get to play the sport I love with some of my good friends. Plus, playing in 70-80 degree weather everyday is nice,” Titus said.

Titus believes that baseball overall is a positive

benefit for the ones who are playing the game.

“I think baseball has positive benefits. Its 90% mental and 10% physical. There’s a lot more to the game than being athletic. It’s a fun game, you just have to know what you’re doing,” Titus explained.

Freshman Alexis Gress also has high expectations but wants to have a fun time doing it.

“The expectations I have for this year’s softball team is to have fun and also to work hard,” Gress said.

Just like Larsen and Titus, Gress has been working hard for preparations for the season.

“So far we’ve had open gyms and have worked on the fundamentals of hitting,” Gress said.

Gress believes that softball has its positive benefits for a person’s health.

“I think softball has positive benefits because softball forces me to keep in shape and allows me to tan for the summer,” Gress explained.

Whether a student is starting their softball or baseball careers as eighth graders or finishing their baseball or softball careers as seniors, players believe that even though they are missing a part of their summers, they do it in a fun and exciting way.