East Scroll Nov. 25, 2014 issue

Vol 83/Issue 2 November 25, 2014

East High Drama steals the show with their performance of

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”

Check it out on page 6 photo/ Brian Chang

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easthighpublications.com

@EastScroll

IG: EastScroll

Table Of

Issue 2

Contents

photo/ Jessa May

*News* Page 3 AP Classes: are they worth it?

Co-Editors in Chief Jessa May Jaylin James

Editors

Emma Stanley Aron Mota Robles

Staffers

Scroll design Summer Mills

Aviana Anderson Zoe Beasley Annie Khanthaphengxay Matt Buchacker Photographers Shirah Burton Brian Chang Jorge Gutierrez Nam Le Echo Kermoade Elizabeth Monetti Adviser Malesa Naovarath Natalie Niemeyer Reginae Tree Jordan Van Gundy Principal William White Steve Johns

page / 2

photo/ Quill

*Feature* Page 9 Josh Davis rises

photo/ Jessa May

*Feature* Page 20 Flashy Fall Fashion

DISTRICT EDUCATIONAL LETTER POLICY The Scroll welcomes letters but reserves the right EQUALITY STATEMENT The Des Moines Public Schools prohibits discrimination in educational and employment prog rams and activities based on age, race, creed, color, sex, marital status, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, or disability.

In addition, the District prohibits acts of intolerance or harassment toward employees or students that are not related to the individual’s employment or education.

ADS POLICY

Ads are available in quarter page, half page and full page sizes. Ad inquiries should be directed to Natalie Niemeyer at natalie.niemeyer@dmschools.org.

The Scroll reserves the right to reject ads deemed not in the best interest of East students. The paper is printed every four weeks by Wilcox Printing in Madrid, IA.

to edit for space as needed. Outside contributions are subject to the usual restrictions of libel and obscenity and must conform to general paper policy, which is available upon request. Signed commentaries represent personal opinions, not views of the staff. Also, your letter needs to include your full name and grade. Unsigned letters can not be printed. You can deliver your letter to Natalie Niemeyer in room 3060N.

NOTE: All contents are the product of the EHS newspaper production staff. Occasional stories are contributed from the Journalism Intern program.

The Scroll is a public forum for student expression.

Page Editor/ Jessa May

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Where do you see yourself after high school?

For most of us that would be going to a community, state or private college.

Have you ever thought that you could be attending high school while getting college credit? The A.P. or advanced placement, classes allow you to do just that, while you are also getting your high school diploma.

The advanced placement program allows for the students that want to over achieve or in a senses get ahead, in their life beyond high school. This way they are challenged to a college level course that will help them succeed later.

They are meant for the students who are gifted and talented or

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those exceptionally good at a subject.

AP classes are supposed to be taught in a smaller class where the student to teacher ratio is one teacher to 10 to 20 students.

“If an AP class is going to be really beneficial, the district has to bring down the student to teacher ratio.” AP teacher Mr. Mahler said.

These classes are for students who would like to know more. Students who challenge themselves.

That’s what AP is for. Is it just a larger amount of work.

Or is it a faster pace learning environment that students want to be in?

With school, its understandable when you are forced to do something, that you don’t want to do. Then there is

Page Editors/ Jordan Van Gundy

A.P. Where students want to be there. The A.P. Program allows students to take a test at the end of the year for a college credit.

The top score of which is 5.

Students study all year to prepare for the test that will be over everything they learned that school year.

The test is based on a 5 point grading scale. Most colleges wont accept anything under a 3. For example DMACC will except a 3 but Iowa will not except anything under a 4. There are some “problems” with how the credits transfer over in some cases, but for the most part you will get the credits for the classes you took.

A.P. Is designed to get students ready for college.

“Be prepared for the style of education” Tim Kirchoff said.

Teachers that teach A.P. try to give the

students in the classes the closed experience to a college class as possible.

AP is “defiantly, taught like a college class” AP Chem teacher Miss Birerkamp said.

She could not teach AP Chem this year because not enough people signed up.

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A s i So ou? for y

“It’s a different experience,” junior Carlos Quintana said.

Why should you take A.P.

• Have better chances of completing their bachelor’s degree in four years.

• Feel they are prepared for college testing and how the class works.

• They challenge students to do their best.

• Have developed better study habits.

• Are able to examine documents more efficiently.

• Shows great examples of the style of teaching.

“They are going to pay off later,” junior Joey Combs said.

“Lots of work but they are going to prepare me for college,” junior Cassy Foss said.

Page / 3 news

Getting ready for flu season You can decrease and eliminate your chances of getting the flu story by/ R. Tree

Attention East High School! It is flu season. Are you ready for it? The flu is typically at its highest peaks in January and February. But first reports of it come as early as October.

Most doctors believe that people get the flu when someone with the flu coughs, sneezes, or talks and droplets containing their germs land in your mouth or nose.

The flu usually lasts about a week. It is a viral infection that attacks your respiratory system — your nose, throat and lungs.

The first documented wide spread case of the flu was in 1918. Approximately 40 percent of

the world became infected and 50 million died.

In the United States alone, 36,000 people died from the flu in 2013 and more than 200,000 were hospitalized because of the flu. 20 - 30 percent of people carrying the influenza virus have usually have no symptoms.

In Iowa alone there have been seven reports of the flu so far according to the Iowa Department of Public Health.

Most people who get the flu are usually contagious one day before symptoms occur and five to seven days after symptoms appear. Some people may be contagious

for even longer if they are young children or elderly.

The flu is similar to a bad cold. Bundling up when the weather drops and staying warm by covering your mouth and face can decrease your chances of the flu.

Flu shots are available at your family doctor, health clinics, pharmacies (Walgreens and CVS), and some grocery stores. Keep an eye out in local papers and news for health clinics with low cost or free flu shots.

East High School nurses Mrs.Bonnett and Molly Mallone answer questions about the flu.

What can people do to prevent getting the flu?

Vaccine, wash hands properly, stay home if have symptoms, stay away from people who have it.

Does the vaccine really help?

Yes, it’s very effective. It gives you antibodies.

Some people think getting the vaccine doesn’t work can you still get the flu if you get the vaccine?

Yes, vaccination will decrease risk by 70 percent. If you do unfortunately get the flu some ways to get better are to stay hydrated, eat some soup, and get lots of rest.

“I’m healthy! I don’t think I’ll get the flu,” Charles Rushing/ 9

“A huge thing to wash are hands to stay safe,” Brandyn Davis/ 9

“I’m not going to get it. What’s to be scared of,” Nicole Sanders/ 11

“People should get the shot to try and prevent,” Jeremiah Birth /10

page / 4 news

Symptoms of the flu

•Fever •Headache •Tiredness •Cough •Sore throat •Runny or stuffy nose •Body aches •Diarrhea •Vomiting

Page Editor/ Reginae Tree

“What if I get Ebola?!”

Story by / Annie Khanthaphengxay and Billy White

I

m a g i n e this. People covered in white, saying that you’re infected with something you’ve never heard about in your life. People laying down in cars because hospitals are too full or can’t help you at all, saying that you’re going to die in a couple of days. Most of the time, those doctors just forget about you because they know your time is limited.

Zombies, people coming back from the dead, people bleeding from their eyes.

Unexplained flesh burning or melting. There are many stories of this deadly virus, Ebola.

Ebola was first discovered in 1976.

The break out from that year wasn’t as bad as this year. There are five different virus

species of Ebola but only four are known to affect humans.

Zaire ebolavirus is the one responsible for today’s outbreak.

More than 8,000 people were diagnosed in West Africa with Ebola this year. About half of them died. Ebola entered the United States by various flights coming in from Liberia. New York, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Virginia, New Jersey and Georgia airports do a special screening and fever check for Ebola.

To prevent more outbreaks in other states, air travelers from Liberia, Sierra Leone and Guinea must go through one of those states before entering the U.S.

“It’s not a very easy disease to catch.” Nurse Vicki Bonnett

Symptoms • • • • • • •

Fever Headache Diarrhea Vomiting Stomach Pains Muscle pain Unexplained Bleeding • Unexplained bruising • Severe weight loss

Prevention from getting Ebola:

• Practice careful hygiene.

• Constantly wash your hands with soap and water • Avoid bats and mammals that are infected

• Do not come into contact with those that are infected • Do not eat raw, wild-caught meat

“Ebola is airborne.”

It’s not airborne. It is droplet-borne. (ex: sneezing, coughing, vomiting) “This is the first outbreak of Ebola.”

The largest but not the first.

“You won’t get Ebola if you have a healthy immune system.”

Ebola can attack ANY immune system.

“Fasting (eating nothing) can help fight Ebola” It will only weaken your body.

“Ebola can be transmitted by mosquitoes.”

There is no evidence of that.

“Ebola zombies!”

The viral picture of the “Ebola zombie” is just a screenshot of a zombie from the movie World War Z. The first rumor came when an Ebola infected man in Africa that was thought to be dead, started to move. He was actually alive.

Myths

Page editors / Billy White and Annie Khanthaphengxay page / 5 news

East High Theater presents...

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ysterical, heartwarming, and whimsical; all words used to describe “Annie” as presented by the East High performing arts department under the direction of teacher Jamaal Allan, musical director Traci Squires, and assistant directors Ryan Hawkins, and Katelyn Buckton.

“Annie” tells the story of an 11 year old orphan who goes to live with the rich business owner, Oliver Warbucks for the holiday season. The musical follows the pair as they both learn about love and the value of family.

Toil with the orphans, freeze with the Hoovervillians, or lie in the lap of luxury at the Warbucks mansion; the entire show is filled with fun musical numbers, exciting and entrancing characters, and a message of positivity.

”

Photo/ B. Chang “There’s always hope, no matter the situation,” junior Wren Gamble said about the message she got from the show.

The process started with auditions in September more than 40 hopeful students auditioned for the fall musical. Ultimately, the coveted lead, the role of the optimistic and cheery little orphan Annie, went to Freshman Aaliyah Fenceroy.

“I loved meeting new people. I also liked the singing and acting,” Fenceroy said.

This show contained over twenty musical numbers including timeless favors like “Tomorrow” and “Maybe”, which meant the cast worked tirelessly on choreography. “[Act one finale] was probably the hardest to choreograph, the dance moves aren’t that hard

page / 6 feature

but there are four stunts,” student choreographer Brent Nery said.

Rehearsals for “Annie” were held every day after school from 2:50 to nearly 8:00 at times.

Occasionally the cast of “Annie” came to school on Saturday and other days off to work. Students worked countless hours to put everything together.

Countless groups loaned their time, from choreography and costumes to lights and music.

“Rehearsals for ‘Annie’ are long and sometimes frustrating but they’re fun,” Gamble said, “we’re working really hard to make this show come alive.”

Performances for “Annie” were November 13, 14, and 15 at 7p.m. in the East High Auditorium. On the November 14th performance, half

the proceeds were donated to Viva East Bank Winter Wear Drive, Describe over 1700 dollars were raised for the “Annie” in 3 charity. words “We wanted a charity that would directly impact our community and we found Viva East Bank,” Director JaMaria O’Brian/ 11 maal Allan said. AlClassical, familiar, timeless lan went on to tell about how the show falls around the holiday which is especially a good time to give to other who are less James Stanton/ 11 fortunate.

Fun, challenging, Many student interesting and faculty came out to support fellow students and the performing arts program at all of the performances. “AnTera Ramos/ 12 nie” was a show that Glorious, beautiful, you wouldn’t have fabulous wanted to miss.

Page Editor/ Zoe Beasley

Taking on a big role Mrs. Blumberg has big shoes to fill as the new senior counselor Story/ Shirah Burton, Aviana Anderson When you hear the word “supportive,” what do you think? Now times that by three. That’s Mrs. Blumberg for you. She is a kind, sweet hearted, attentive person and she is all ears when it comes to helping students, especially seniors.

“I am a professional school counselor who helps academically and personally and I also help career wise,” Blumberg said.

Mrs. Blumberg works with mostly seniors on their grades and attendance. She also shows support to students when it is needed at home and at school. Last but not least, she gets students ready for life after high school.

“Mrs. Blumberg gave all the information I needed to know to apply for college. It would be a lot more different and difficult without her,” senior Lesly Arzola said.

Not only does Mrs. Blumberg counsel, she also translates for people and helps out at other school events.

When you have to jug-

gle these responsibilities and assist so many students it may get a little overwhelming.

“The most difficult task about my job is that there are a lot of kids so it’s hard to get to know everyone,” Blumberg said.

Although undertaking so many duties can get hard, working with a lot of students isn’t always a bad thing.

There’s always a positive outcome when you’re persistent.

“I love how flexible my schedule is. My favorite thing is that there is something different every day,” Blumberg said.

Mrs. Blumberg is a very experienced counselor. At a younger age she babysat, nannied, and was a camp counselor. She even taught English as a second language in Spain.

“I became a counselor because I was a good listener in high school and before college I was interested in psychology and counseling. Plus, I’ve always had a good connection with kids,” Blumberg said.

Mrs. Blumberg was

photo/ S. Burton Explaining to a senior student about graduating requirements is Mrs. Blumberg. “Mrs. Blumberg keeps me informed about things I need to do and get ready for college,” senior Zoe Beasley said.

an undergrad at University of Madison Wisconsin and a graduate at University of Iowa. A few years after she graduated college she got a call from Ms. Kathy Clausen, our vice principle offering her a job as the ninth grade counselor.

“I never intended on working with high school students. I was nervous at first because I’ve only worked with elementary kids but I’m fine now because there is obviously something keeping me here,” Blumberg said.

In 2007 to 2008 Mrs. Blumberg worked at East High School. She left for one year and luckily she came back.

This is Mrs. Blumberg’s seventh year at East.

Pages Editor/ S. Burton, A. Anderson

5

of Mrs. Blumberg’s favorites “Everyone you meet is fighting a battle you know nothing about. Be kind. Always.”

-Unknown

1. Favorite book: The Harry Potter series

2. Favorite place: The beach 3. Favorite inspiration: Her mom

4. Favorite sport: Loves to

play volleyball and tennis and loves to watch baseball

5. Favorite memory: When her children were born

page / 7 feature

Was it worth it?

Stephani Backham’s crazy scheme to meet the Biebs

A look at the numerous sheets of colored bracelets Backham had spent hours researching on.

story by/ J. Gutierrez Hours and hours of researching, laminating, and planning in order to be able to “meet and greet” with the Biebs.

Usually, the “meet and greet” packet comes with a cost of roughly $500 but not for, East High Junior Stephani Backham. For Stephani, only a few sheets of printing paper, ink, and patience was all it cost for her “meet and greet”.

After spending hours at the Des Moines Public Library researching the possible colors for the “meet and greet and looking through countless Twitter accounts for photos of the bracelets, Stephani went into the concert with photos of

the bracelets, Stephani went into the concert with a purse full of various colored bracelets.

Meaning, she had various sheets with multiple colored strips that would match whatever color the “meet and greet” bracelets were this concert. Every concert, the color of the bracelets are changed to throw off any person trying to counterfeit their way in.

Fear, anxiety, and excitement were only the tip of the iceberg of emotions.

Cheering fans, Bieber signs everywhere, shouts of confessed love from all cylinders, and among it all was Backham who had built up the courage to walk up to a security guard and say in a Euro-

page / 8 feature

pean accent, “Excuse me, I’m from Europe and I flew over to the U.S. to see Justin Bieber perform.

I bought this ‘meet and greet’ ticket for $300, can you help me get there?”

After being accompanied by the security guard to the “meet and greet”, Backham proceeded to wait a long, dreadful hour for the big moment. While standing in line with arms crossed and wearing a long sleeve to hide the white bracelet (The “meet and greet” bracelet for this concert had been light grey but she had lost this color and chose to go with the white) a different security guard approached her and confronted her stat-

ing that her bracelet was counterfeit.

“I bought the ticket outside for $300”, Backham said in her broken European accent.

Somehow, the security guard didn’t really believe Backham so he guided her towards customer service. There, Stephani poured out her European life story in which she had visited her family for the holidays and that during the visit, Backham family and her would return to the U.S. in spring to attend the JB concert As the words kept creeping out of her mouth so did time and before you knew it, half an hour had passed.

Shortly after, another security guard came and

told her, “The meet and greet is over” Backham’s heart dropped like a piano from a third story building. Crushed with emotions, hard work gone to waste, and, in the midst of it all, the Bieber concert had already begun.

If you were to ask Backham, after her trial and tribulation, after potentially being arrested after being so close to meeting your idol, what did you learn from this ?

“I should’ve cried. I thought about it a week later and realized they probably would’ve let me meet Justin if I had cried,” Backham said.

Above Backham poses for a photo.

Page Editor/ Jorge Gutierrez

Josh “The Pitbull” Davis story/ J. James irst in East High School history to have over 100 wins as a junior.

Most wins in a season. Most pins in a season. The only East wrestler to qualify for a spot on Team Iowa – USA Wrestling Team. These records can only mean one thing…

You guessed it; Josh Davis, the three time state wrestling qualifier and t w o t i m e state place winner.

But it wasn’t easy getting to the point Davis is at now. As a child, Davis lived in five different houses up to seventh grade, attended three different elementary schools and two different middle schools.

“Growing up I wasn’t exactly privileged,” said Davis.

F

The Summer before eighth grade Davis was forced by his mother to move out. Davis’ uncle and aunt then took guardianship until just last year. Things got out of hand, then Davis’ heroes came into place. A family that goes by the last name of Giboo, Davis’ current guardians. James Giboo is the East wrestling coach and has made a huge impact on Davis’ life.

“I knew he was a great kid, he just needed to be in the right environment,” said Giboo.

Currently Davis and the Giboo family have a relationship that can’t be broken.

Coming from the family Da-

“Growing up I wasn’t exactly privileged.”

Page editor/ Jaylin James

vis was raised in, not being privileged and seeing his family struggling is what motivates him. This motivation has made Davis a great young man and wrestler.

Last season, Josh had 62 wins and only nine losses. Out of those 71 matches, he had a whopping 54 pins. Davis isn’t just good at wrestling, he dominates in every match he competes. In about every match Davis wrestles, he dominates his opponent and he hopes to do the same this year.

Every wrestler who wrestles Josh “The Pitbull” Davis remembers him and always will.

Coach James Giboo reflects on how he feels about having Josh in his life

Q: What do you see in Josh that you don’t see in any other wrestler?

A: Josh has a self drive to be great. He

pushes himself to be the best he can.

How do you feel about Josh’s opportunity

Q: to wrestle at Northern Illinois?

I feel great about it! I definitely think

A: he has the ability to wrestle Division 1.

What is your most memorable moment

Q: with Josh?

Seeing Josh get his 100th career win

A: was awesome. Everyone was there to see it.

photo/ J. Davis

page / 9 feature

4

Point (Standard Reference Grading) What is that!? scale

How do you think SRG works and what do you think of it?

Students/ teachers weigh in on the four point scale

Basic outline of what each score means Grade SRG Meaning A+ 4.0 Excellent A/B 3.0 Good C 2.0 Average D 1.0 Passing F 0.0 Failing

story/ Jordan Van Gundy

The new grading scale that has been implemented in the Des Moines Public Schools is called standards referenced grading and it will be fully implemented though out the district in the next three years.

4 points (0-4) four being the Best. This way of grading is commonly referred to as the four point scale or standard reference grading.

The main idea is to grade students on what they know and to not be graded on their ability to turn assignments in on time and their ability to do homework. This also mean that students can retake any test or turn in any assignments within a 19 week period or till the end of the semester.

There has been some confusion, between teachers and students, on what a score of four means and how to earn it. A score of four is the max score, it’s above and beyond what you’re supposed to know/do. It is being able to get the right answer then explain and argue it. Simply it is going above and beyond. It’s doing more then what was

page 10/ SRG

asked of you.

But this varies from class to class. You can do everything expected and get a four. Then in other classes you can do the same but get a three as teachers get used to the new grading.

Teachers want to make sure that students understand SRG and what it will mean to them in their high school life.

“I really feel that they do understand,” History teacher Mr. Hoversten said.

Teachers get three full days of training during the summer for the four point scale and most teachers who use the scale interpret it in totally different ways.

“I took four and doubled it, my grades are out of eight using 91-100 percent is an A and so on, but to put it into the four point [scale] I just divide it by two,” history teacher Mr. Derby said.

The scale can be represented in really any way as long as 4 is the very best they can get and 0 is failing, which means that there is no evidence that the standard has been met.

“I know what a four is, but who determines what above and beyond is?” English teacher Ms. Buckton said.

Teachers like to know that a student understands what they are doing well and what they are falling behind on. The SRG allows a teacher to show a student what they don’t know when they miss something on a test.

“I can show students how they are meeting standards,” Hoversten said.

Page Editors/ Jordan Van Gundy and Emma Stanley

“ I think it’s a good thing because you’re being graded on what you know other than your ability to do work.”

“The 4 point scale does not allow for the student that wants to exceed to be rewarded.”

-Mr. Mahler

-Mrs. Hamann

DMPS on standard reference grading “SAT. MCAT. Praxis.

SAT. Bar exam. CPA exam. Driver’s licensure. Pilot’s licensure. Auto mechanic certification exam. Every one of these assessments reflects the adult-level, working-world.”

These are all examples of what test in the real world you can retake.

“People’s lives depend on these tests’ validity as accurate measures of individual competence.”

There are no “We have data “Professionals retakes in the that illustrate actually flourish ‘real world’. our traditional through re-dos, grading retakes, and dopractices are overs.” broken.”

With SRG, students now have 19 weeks (an entire semester) to retake/ complete work.

Page Editors/ Jordan Van Gundy and Emma Stanley

page 11/ SRG

Black Friday

For some people, shopping is a competitive sport Story/ E. Monetti

Top 3 funny Black Friday Stories

1. I was at Walmart there was a fight break out over a bike. He rode the bike out of the store to flee away from the crowd (without paying).

-Jennifer Patino

2. Someone punched a security

guard in the face because he thought he was a customer skipping to the front of the line..He was just walking in the door to start his shift.

We’ve learned over the years on Black Friday, you have to stand in line early and pray. Yes it’s that time of year to spend, spend, and spend some more.

For some people it’s time to do some serious shopping, there are many sales at stores in Des Moines. For others, the temptation of maximum spending is hard to resist because for one those shoes you loved from your favorite store just went from 79.99 to 50.00 just can’t resist a great deal. We all know

the basics about Black Friday, it’s the day after thanksgiving and it’s the biggest shopping day of the year, but what really is the story behind this known day.

Black Friday back in the 60’s was originally called “black and red”, red signifies retail stores are at loss black refers to stores making profit. So, why is this “holiday” so popular? Technically Black Friday isn’t considered a holiday.

Black Friday marks the kickoff for the Christmas shopping

season this so happened made retailers realize they could draw big crowds by discounting prices and made them profitable for the year.

Sales drop dramatically for many things such as toy for kids, to appliances and clothing. Nearly 135 million go to shop on Black Friday every year. Many non-retail employees and schools have both Thanksgiving and the day after off [following into the weekend] there by increasing the number of potential

Helpful Hints

-Vanessa Monetti

3.

I worked for a year at Panda Express we didn’t open early; had people shake our gates screaming that they wanted food I pointed them towards the food court a lady spit at me and told. “I know you have bacon” -Julian Emunah

page / 12 feature

Page Editor/ Elizabeth Monetti

Thanksgiving vs. Christmas story/ M. Buchacker

East Scroll asked students which holiday they preferred.

W

ith two important holidays less than a month apart this year, people really like one or the other or the like them the same. Lots of food at thanksgiving and great colors

outside, without all the excitement of the new year coming.

Presents and lots of family at Christmas time, but cold weather and snow. If you had to pick one which one would you choose?

“Christmas is better, I get to see my crazy family.” - Laurie Custard (10)

“Christmas, because of snow.” - Giselle Acosta (10)

“Christmas, it makes you feel warm and happy.”

-Emerald Jones (11)

“Thanksgiving, I get to see my family.”

- Elhondra Brazzle (10)

“Thanksgiving, it makes think I have.”

- Jamesshia Kennedy (10)

“I like all the food, it’s good. Plus Black Friday.”

-LaShon Winfield (11)

“Christmas, you get whatever you want.”

- Reese Bradly (10)

“Thanksgiving because I like the fall.”

- Erick Madrano (10)

“Christmas, family comes together, all of them, it’s great.”

- James Cam (10)

“ Christmas, giving and getting gifts.

- Mercy Toluwalase (11)

“Christmas, It’s a happy time, I like to buy gifts for people.”

-Kelsey Vail (11)

“Christmas, I like opening a present early .”

-Molly Seher (10

“Thanksgiving, I like turkey a lot and Ice cream cake.”

- Zhanani Pierce (11)

Page Editor/ M. Buchacker

page 13/

Opinion

Get your life together

>Your college life, that is.

Applying to, and getting ready for college isn’t necessarily exciting but it’s necessary if you plan to go to college.

“A.P. classes are a great way to get prepared and see what college classes will be like,” senior Tahlia Hopley said. See pg. 3 for more on A.P. classes Story/ Emma Stanley Imagine going many people have, into college are the deadlines. Pay prepared, with no attention to deadlines surprises. If you’re for scholarships prepared and if you and for other take the right steps applications, once when finally getting they pass, or even to college there become soon, your won’t be anything to chances decrease. be afraid of. Before Sit down and meet applying to college, with your adviser, everyone should ask all the questions have a financial plan you have, it’s better and a good amount to get your answers of money in their sooner rather than pocket. Yes there too late. Ask about are such things as scholarships. student loans but “Apply to every even if you get loans scholarship you or scholarships you come across and try still need money to to actually study for get yourself other tests… your planner necessities. The right is your best friend way to start saving in college so invest money, no matter in one,” University what grade you’re in of Iowa freshamn now, is to get a job Natalie Flores said. and put part of your Also ask about monthly income in a deadlines and about savings account and all of the events don’t take any of it coming up in your out until college. area or events at your That’s the easy top choice schools. part, starting junior You should also year there are so talk to your parents many different when applying for opportunities to scholarships, they get thinking about can inform you about applying (see side bar more scholarships to right). A big issue you qualify for.

page / 14 feature

A fantastic way to prepare for college is to take advantage of AP (Advanced Placement) or DMACC credit classes. Even though advanced placement sounds scary, if you’re dedicated and really want to get ahead, you can sign up and take AP classes or DMACC credit classes.

“I wish I would’ve took more AP and college credit courses because it would have saved me a lot of money,” DMACC freshman Tyler Vail said.

The courses give you great opportunity to take different types of classes and get you thinking about what kind of classes you want to take in college.

Get yourself ready for the college life and enjoy it.

What to do? When to do it?

Junior year, Winter

You should begin visting campuses and find your interest, strengths and weeknesses.

Possably begin job shadowing.

Senior year, Winter

Beware of dates and deadlines.

Apply for FAFSA and be responsive to schools youve applied too. Keep your grades up!

Junior year, Spring

Know when the SAT and ACT are and take those tests and know your score if unhappy with your score you can retake it either in the summer or fall of your senior year.

Senior year, Spring

Get to know how much money everything is going to cost where you’re going. Attend visits of schools you’ve been accepted to and make your decision.

Page Editor/ Emma Stanley

page / 15 ads

Anonymous @Broken_ 36m How do you cope with a break-up?

Dear Echo, @DearEcho 34m

East High School’s advice column

A lot of people tend to blame themselves for a break up and though we all have our faults, it takes two to make anything work. It is best to focus on what is important here and now: You. You are growing. Use this as a learning experience to differentiate your wants from your needs. It is best to busy yourself with books and school and even exercise to take your mind off of heavy thoughts that are bringing you down. Come out stronger from the relationship, don’t let it defeat you.

Anonymous @Stressed_ 44m Chemistry class...

Dear Echo, @DearEcho 41m

@DearEcho

Not going to lie, Chemistry has been the most difficult part of my high school experience. BUT it is different for everyone. For the most part, high school students struggle with it. I had trouble keeping up with all of the homework that seemed to constantly be assigned and on top of that, other work from different classes. The best way to keep up in Chemistry is to make sure you don’t fall behind on homework. Whether you miss a day or you weren’t paying attention, you have to make an effort to get caught up. It is necessary to be in class to understand the material that is being taught. Come in after school to get any help that you need. Honestly, it all depends on how you manage your time with school work. It has to be a priority if you want to pass this class.

Anonymous @Tired_ 53m Waking up is a struggle. Being on time is a struggle. What advice can you give us seniors?

Dear Echo, @DearEcho 50m Waking up in the morning is a struggle for almost anyone. As a senior, your motivation should be to simply get up, get to school, and graduate! You also know how crazy the school can be in the morning with all the traffic, I recommend leaving earlier to give you extra time.

Anonymous @Empty_ 57m Bingeing.

Dear Echo, @DearEcho 54m Sometimes, it’s a stronger feeling than hunger that people try to fulfill; a void. I realized this when I was beginning to struggle with the same dilemma. I felt empty, but not exactly hungry. Bingeing is typically a way to relieve stress. It isn’t the best way though, it can become a problem that adds to more stress. A substitution for bingeing would be to get up and go on a walk, do something productive instead of aimlessly eating. I have found that it takes willpower and self-control. You have to recognize that your intake is becoming too much. Try writing down everything you eat and the time of day. You want to pinpoint where your stress is generating from and then find ways to avoid it. Focus on self-control and not giving into temptation. Make sure to also stay hydrated! That’s a big factor.

Page Editor/ Echo Kermoade

page/ 16 opinion

“Annabelle”: Hollywood vs Reality Story/ A. Khanthaphengxay

W

hat would you do if you walked by a rocking chair that was empty but when you walk by it again, a doll is sitting there, rocking back and forth? You feel a presence behind you but when you look, nothing is there.

You may have heard of the doll Annabelle from “The Conjuring”, but you haven’t heard of the dolls background.

The movie, “Annabelle”, is a horror movie that was released on October 3 and directed by John R. Leonetti. Mia Form is played by actress Annabelle Wallis, John Form is played

by Ward Horton and Alfre Woodrad as Evelyn. In this movie, it tells us the whole story about why the doll, Annabelle, haunts the family that possesses the doll.

SPOILER ALERT FOR THOSE WHO HAVE NOT WATCHED THIS MOVIE YET!

Two devil worshippers break into the home of the pregnant Mia Form and her husband, John Form. In the process of fighting to stay alive after being stabbed in the stomach, Mia sees one of the intruder carrying a special doll that she named Annabelle. The intruder holding the doll had committed suicide while trying to summon the devil.

As her blood dripped from her throat, it fell onto the doll, forcing

the devil to possess the doll.

Although the movie shows gruesome scenes and extremely terrifying moments, nothing like that happened with the real Annabelle doll.

The real doll is not a porcelain doll, but a Raggedy Ann Doll.

No one really knows how the Raggedy Ann Doll got possessed.

The real owner, Donna, received the doll as a present from her mother. Donna’s mother had bought

the doll from a hobby store. In less words, the real owners were not attacked by a satanic cult.

One thing that Hollywood got right is how Annabelle would get up herself and move from room to room. The real owners of Annabelle even stated that they discovered the doll kneeling on a chair which of course, didn’t make sense because when Donna tried to make it kneel, it would just fall over.

Welcome to Sunset City Home to mutants and humans

Story/A.Mota

Y

ou’re working at your job picking up trash at a release party for a drink called Over Charge Delirium XT manufactured

by Fizzco. Then out of nowhere people start throwing up and turning into mutants known as OD’s (Over Drives). You start running for your life

bouncing on cars and grinding on rails.

Each step of the way running into more OD’s. You finally make it home and realize the apocalypse just began and all because of an energy drink.

S u n s e t Overdrive is a third person shooter featuring your own customizable character.

It takes place in boring

Sunset City. It’s a free roam game where you can do story mode missions, side missions, run around by yourself or get with friends and go on a rampage and cause mayhem. The game has a mix of a retro and futuristic feel to it. You get multiple weapons including a gun that shoots a grenade that explodes and dragons come out

or a gun that shoots multi colored vinyls.

In my opinion this game is a must buy. You get to grind on rails, bounce off of cars and blow things up. In one of the missions you get to play fetch with a robotic dog and it destroys anything in its way. Now that’s a cool weapon. The in game characters are unique

Page Editors/ A. Khanthaphengxay A. Mota

like non I’ve ever seen before. Each having their own personalities and characteristics.

You have Walter the ex-head of security of Fizzco, Floyd the crazy scientist, and many more. This game came out October 28th and now comes as an Xbox One Bundle.

page / 17 reviews

The Time has come...

See what the East High winter sport have in store for us.

Bowling story/ M. Buchacker

is excited to The East High start this year bowling team is hop- and work with the ing to have a good new kids and help y e a r them like last.

“Bowling i m “It’s so prove is fun yet relaxt o ing, I competitive, m a k e that’s why I have no t h e o t h e r like it” Daniel t e a m sports Halsted better. to worry T h e about,” team junior Hunter Kahler lost five seniors, three said. Coach Schoon of which are now

bowling in college.

Coach Schoon likes coaching the bowling team because he played as a kid and it is a low pressure sport.

T h e team appreciates people at their meets and encourage students to come to a meet. Both teams enter each meet with an open mind and a metal

held at Premiere Lanes in Pleasant Hill.

page / 18

Sports

season like last year or even better. After winning three of five home meets and winning almost all away meets, finishing third in dual meets in the conference and 80 percent time drops at districts, beating Lincoln the first time in 10 years and winning on Senior Night. The pressure is on to do the same this season “We need part time JV/Varsity swimmers from last year

Nov. 24 @ 3:30 (Ankeny) Jan. 5 @ 3:45 (Roosevelt) Jan. 8 @ 3:45 (Dowling)

photo/ B. Chang

Boys Swimming Last Year the East background as well High Boys swim as the new coach this team broke two all season. Jessica Temtime records and put ple, who was a swimsix events on the top mer at Missouri State. five all time “Chlorine records. is my But having seven seBreakfast.” niors leave Austin Kelley and injuries could have an effect on this season.

Dustin Cassler, who As well as a coach will return for the for a local USA swim 2014-2015 season, team DMSF. The has a great swimming team hopes to have

Bowling home meets @ Premiere Bowling

approach. They also have hopes of state this year. The meets a r e

Jan 19 @ 3:45 (Fort Dodge) Jan 22 @ 3:45 (Hoover)

to step up this year.”

Coach Cassler said.

Come out and watch the Boys Swim Team this year.

Swimming home meets @ East Dec. 11 @ 5:30 (Ottumwa) Jan. 3 @ 11am (Ken Gaeth Invite) Jan. 8 @ 5:30 (Roosevelt)

photo/ M. Buchacker

page editor/ M. Buchacker

What time is it: Basketball

As you walk into school, you can smell the popcorn in the air and feel the intensity of the game.

Tuesdays and Fridays

“If you do what you always did, you will get what you always got.”

Dariann #34 Nickerson

are occupied with high school basketball games. A new season comes with a new coach for the boys at East High. The boy’s varsity team has had a few seasons that didn’t come out as expected.

With a new coach they have potential to improve and possibly make it far.

Coach Jacob Cleveland is taking over the program

and he plans to fix the reputation that comes with it. It’s a new beginning for the boys. They lost many of their starters and this is an opportunity for new faces to show what they’re capable of. Coach Cleveland plans on bringing discipline and accountability to the program and hopefully turn them into one of the best defensive teams in the conference. On the girl’s side, the varsity team lost eight seniors.

This season they also

Game time!

have some new additions to their coaching staff. This is the time for the new faces of the team to shine. This is a rebuilding process for the program but Coach Sam Powell is always prepared.

Under the influence of Coach Powell the girls have the capability of keeping the legacy alive.

Calvin Theppanya

#23

“Hard work beats talent when talent fails to work hard.” is Theppanya’s favorite quote.

Wrestling It’s time to hit the mats!

The wrestling team has been underrated.

Not many students are aware of their meets. East wrestlers dedicate their life to those early morning and late night practices but get little support.

With two wrestlers advancing to state last season, they have the ability to make it back to Wells Fargo

Arena. Four years ago the record was 0-24, now under the leadership of head coach James Giboo, they slowly have

been improving. The challenge that Coach Giboo faces is having wrestlers competing

in each weight class.

On average Coach Giboo has about 50 wrestlers and this year the excitement is with the seniors.

Giboo has returning seniors that he has Weight class: 132 lb coached for the last four years.

“Always work harder than the guy across He believes that from you because you never know how hard they have what he is trying to work to beat you” it takes to get the is Raleigh’s favorite quote. job done.

Page Editor/ M. Naovarath

page / 19 sports

“We focus on the two things we can control; Attitude and Effort.”

Chance Raleigh

Flashy fall fashion “I get my style from Pintrest, there are a lot of cute clothes and styles on there and I want to try them and pull them off,” sophomore Chloe Copley said.

“My older sister has pretty good style so I kind of go off of her for that and then work with what is in my cousins closet,” freshman Cali Frees said.

“My style probably comes from the Internet and Pintrest and also by following style accounts on Instagram,” senior Cheyenne Lindsey said.

“I look up to the singer CL and I get my style from her, otherwise I just wear what I feel like,” junior Annie Khanthaphengxay said.

As the cool air blows in the fall fashion poors out “My girlfriend has me model clothes for her and if I like it i’ll wear it,” senior Connor Enochs said “I have my own style inspiration and I always look good,” junior Devonte Dentis said.

Page Editors/ Jessa May, Malesa Naovarath

“I just dress to impress everyone else,” sophomore Ethan Lo said.

The Afghanistan clothes he wears are similar to the American fashion freshman Barsat Fnu said.

page / 20 Fall Fashion