Vol 84/Issue 4
Photo Illustration/D. Guzman
The Iowa Caucus Experience Page 3
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eastscroll.com
@EastScroll
IG: EastScroll
Page 3: Campaign -Students reflect on their first caucus
Page 7: Humans of East High Page 16: Is love really in the air for teenage couples?
Page 12-13: Spittin’ fire! Student poets get personal
March 2, 2016
Cover/ D. Guzman & O. Thier
Co-Editors in Chief Malesa Naovarath Shirah Burton
Editors
Elaina Rothmayer Emma Stanley
Staffers
Caitlyn Van Gundy
Kyleana Whitmore Abigail Folkerts Olivia Thier Alyssa Ayersman Laurie Custard Annie Khanthaphengxay Madison Stout Anthony Arroyo Matthew Buchacker Beverly Hail Mayson Williams Billy White Robbi Boggess Carly Reynolds Ramon Freire Christopher Trevino Toni McPhee Danielle O’ Connor Diane Guzman Adviser Elise Dowler Natalie Niemeyer Fallon Trenter Jasmin Salgado Principal Jordan Van Gundy Leslie Morris Kaitlynn McCaull
page / 2
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 Editors/ R. Boggess & B. White
The Iowa Caucus Experience photo/ B. Freire Raising their hands, the caucus goers were counted one by one. Almost 300 people gathered to caucus at Carver Elementary this year. “This place is crowded, that’s the worst part,” Danley said.
Story/ B. Freire Carver Elementary School cafeteria was crowded by almost all of our community members. A woman yelling Hillary’s slogans, some men offering Sanders’ pamphlets... Everyone was waiting for the clock on the wall to announce that it was 7 o’clock. Parents, siblings, teachers, the cashier of that grocery store down the street, maybe, even you...
All your neighbors together again in a room, 4 years later, for the same reason. Decide who should represent both Democratic and Republican party in the race for Presidency. Iowa Caucuses are really important, not only in the USA, but worldwide. The corn state is the first to make its voice heard all over the country, so hundreds of reporters from every
First time caucus goer Morgan Meyer Q: How was your first Caucus? A: “Really interesting (...) I didn’t experience the arguing part because people split in Hillary and Bernie” Q:Who did you go with? A: “My mom (...) She went caucasing for the first time because she got interested on it because of me”
Page Editor/ B. Freire
single nation come to follow this event. No one wants to miss it. “It is a good process. I brought my son along to experience it. Young people should come and learn about the process, learn about the candidates...” East alumna caucus goer Dana Danley said. Democratic and Republican Caucuses are different in the process, but equal in their goals: people choose delegates
that will represent their candidate in the Party Convention. Democrats have to move around the room and try to convince their party mates to join their side, so it usually gets stressing, long and really loud. “I don’t like caucusing … It takes forever,” Danley said. Republicans just vote for a candidate using a secret ballot, which makes it easier, but also not as exciting. This 2016 presidential election will be the first one in which Millenniums, people born after 1980’s, represent a bigger group of voters than Baby-boomers. “Politicians don’t really care, because they think we don’t have experience, but as young people we are able to see the world through the eyes of the innocent,” political director of the League of United Latin American Citizens of Iowa Cristian Ucles said. Also twice the number
of Latinos that voted in 2012 will be able to vote November 8th of this year. “We are a growing number, and our power is increasing as well,” Ucles said. “I am really excited about it and it seems really fun,” senior Tiffany Contreras said. Contreras is one of the bunch of seniors that were able to vote for the first time, since they are going to turn eighteen before the presidential election. The youth is starting to get involved in politics and to research all the candidates to make the wiser choice. “Hillary is my favorite … Sanders is a socialist, but he is pretty chill too,” Contreras said. Eventually, it will be the time for you to decide. Do you know who you would vote for?
The Quotes of the Candidates “Obamacare is the worse that happened to this country since “When Mexico sends slavery,”Ben Carson its people, they’re sending people that have lots of problems...they’re bringing drugs ... They’re rapists,” Donald Trump
“I recently launched a Snapchat account, I love it. Those messages disappear all by themselves,” Hillary Clinton
page / 3 news
ITS A SPRING THING..
Story/ C.VanGundy
It’s cold outside, we live in Iowa, of course we know it’s cold. But Spring is right around the corner and there’s actually a lot to do in Des Moines. Take the dog on a walk, head down to Principal Park and catch a baseball game, or catch up on your favorite TV shows. Des Moines is a wonderful place, with so many wonderful things to do. Lets welcome spring with open arms and cross these activities off your season bucket list.
Photo/ C.VanGundy
View to downtown Des Moines on a beautiful spring day right before sundown.
Saylorville lake is famous for the dam, the trails, amazing sites, and so much more. Address: 5600 NW 78th Ave, Johnston, IA 50131 Cost: Only to rent anything.
$
Hours: 10am-5pm Address: 909 Robert D Ray Dr, Des Moines, IA 50309 Cost: Students (4-17): $4 Adults: $6
Botanical Center
Saylorville Downtown
Bonfire
Grill out
Game night
Principal Park
$$
Blank Park Zoo
Go see some color and go down to see what spring has to offer and what you have to look forward to with the end of winter right around the corner.
Walk the dog Go hiking
Opening Day: April 7th Against: Round Rock Texas Time: 6:08pm Address: 1 Line Dr, Des Moines, IA 50309
Hours: 10am-4pm Cost: Children: $7 Adults: $12
“I like to just be “I like to travel, no outside in general, where specific, just especially with it like to travel.” jus being warm Natalie Borgan/9 again.” said. MaryKate Walling/9 said.
Pages Editor/ C.VanGundy
“I like to go vacationing with my family down to California.” Karen Ruiz/11 said.
Page / 4
Scarlet Style Guide Story/ D. O’Connor and F. Trenter
Flowers blooming, buds on trees, green grass beautiful weather... all things that help you know that it’s Spring. A lot of teenagers at East have the same problem. Teenagers wake up in the morning and have no idea what to wear to school. Should I wear my converse or those combat boots? Winter is over and so are the Uggs. Its not quite time for the short shorts, but bust out those capris or that new cute maxi skirt.
Preppy
Casual
Hipster
On a sunny spring day...
>>>
On a chilly spring day..
<<<
^^^ On
an average spring day...
“I like to wear loose tank tops underneath a flannel with some leggings and Birkenstocks,” freshman Melissa Fey said.
Birkenstock leather sandals Nordstrom- $124.95
“I’m always really excited for spring because I pull out my summer things and I get to wear them again. It’s like shopping in my closet,” junior Nic Graziano said.
Mens button up three quarter length shirt www.amazon.com- $34.99
Page Editor/ D. O’Connor and F. Trenter
“Spring time is a time to come out of hibernation. I’m a person that likes to dress up and it allows me to do that. It’s a time for people to express themselves,” senior Echo Kermoade said.
Baseball cap Urban outfitters- $24.00
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Spring Cleaning Story/ E. Stanley
For your face
As the season changes the air gets humid, turning that cold, dry skin into sweaty and oily skin, which can lead to breakouts. Maybe you have flawless, smooth and pimple-free skin, but either way, everyone can always use some pointers to get their skin looking and feeling as great as possible. Photo credit/D. Guzman The edge of the forehead is a common problem area, Try washing your headbands and getting into the hairline when washing your face.
Dry skin indictors can be peeling and itchy spots; try using a non-scented moisturizer at least once a
If you wear make-up regularly, take a break from the cake for a day or two, at least once a week to let your pores open up. Also make sure you’re removing your make-up every night before bed.
Staying confident through the cleansing Being a teenager today can be a major stressor and potentially cause you to be down on yourself, but having blemishes is a part of life and shouldn’t be something to be ashamed of or feel out-casted by. “So many people are influenced by social media...basically making us think we should be perfect and be exactly the same way,” senior Tiffany Contreras said. Media is a huge source of influence on East High but staying positive even when you break out is key. “I listen to upbeat or motivational music, thinking positively helps motivate me to stay happy and confident,” Contreras said. Those models and touched up faces on Twitter aren’t real but East High students are, so don’t stay home or cake yourself up next time you have a break out.
Page Editor/ E. Stanley
The middle of the forehead can be disturbed by stress, try using stress relieving face masks.
Try looking for a face wash that is specifically for your skin type; dry, normal or oily.
The most stubborn of all blemishes; blackheads. Popping them is a big no, it will cause redness, swelling and most likely worse problematic zits.
page /6 feature
Humans of East High What event in your past has affected your life choices today? Story/ K. McCaull, B. Freire
Maria O’Brien Grade 12
“Most of the things people especially from that have impacted my life relationships and family haven’t necessarily come issues. My mom has alfrom people or events. ways encouraged me to Most of the issues I have be aware and help othfaced come from person- ers with whatever they al issues and factors with may be going through. I my fam“Some of the personally ily. Socilike helpety has obstacles I have faced ing others c a u s e d have come mostly from b e c a u s e most of I know I depression” my selfcan help image them and just by watching T.V and just generally be there for being observant of soci- them.” ety. Some of the obstacles I have faced have come mostly from depression, generally relating to other
Photo/ C. Young
#5Facts
1. Involved in theatre
2. Loves
short film
3. Painter 4. Writer 5. Listener
About us Follow @humansofeast on Instagram to see more stories of those at East High. Humans of East got an idea originally from Humans of New York where New Yorkers will get randomly chosen to tell their life story. We picked up on the idea and decided to the same thing. Humans of East High tries to focus on individuals who go through ev-
eryday problems that everyone can relate to. Every week we will come to a student and ask a question for our new story. You might be the next Human of the East High, so be watching.
Page Editor/ K. McCaull, B. Freire
page / 7 feature
Want to be successful?
Helpful tips and information to help you be successful in your classes next year Story/ A. Folkerts
Believe it or not, we are almost halfway through the second semester of the 2015-2016 school year. At this point in the year whether you’re a freshman, sophomore, junior, or senior, you are most likely ready for summer. Seniors are excited, and even anxious for
graduation, dreaming about finally getting that diploma in their hands that they have worked so hard for. However, the rest of us are staring down another year in high school. As students, we can agree that we want the best study tools and advice to help us be successful.
As always, it’s the little things that count. Between taking notes in class, and completing all assignments (whether it’s graded or not) can be the difference between you being successful and failing that class. Even just showing up to class regularly can help you stay on
top of your work. Keeping a planner is another good way to keep track of your school life, and your life outside of school. These easy tips can start you down the road to success in high school, in college, and in life.
What you need to graduate...
English4.0 Credits Math3.0 Credits Science3.0 Credits Social Sci.3.0 Credits Fine Arts1.5 Credits PE1.0 Credits Electives7.5 Credits
with counselor Ashlee Duimstra Q&A Ms. Duimstra talks about the new online course registration, AP classes, and much more.
Photo/A. Folkerts
1. Why is East changing how students create their schedules for the next school year? “We want students to be more prepared. We want them to do more planning because when they leave here, there’s a lot of things that need to be in place, in order to be successful. Things are changing because we weren’t sure those conversations had been had.”
2. What happens to students that didn’t do their schedule requests online? “We opened up the online course registration to give you a chance to think about the classes, look them over, do some research on your own, as students, and then we (the counselors) are going to be coming in your classrooms, and meeting with you individually to set up your classes.”
3. What exactly is an AP class? Why do counselors push students to take them? “AP classes are hard. They are challenging, but they are one of the best things you can take to prepare yourself for college-level work. If your plan is to go to college, you have an opportunity to see what that’s like, and even get some college credit in high school.”
4. Is there anything else you would like to say to the students of East High School? “I just think that we are excited to get to meet with students and hopefully meet everyone in the school (freshmen through juniors).”
Page Editor/ A. Folkerts
page / 8 feature
Excuses, excuses photo/ E. Rothmayer story/ M. Stout, E. Dowler
Sweat dripping down your face, and the gears in your head are turning thinking of what to say when the teacher asks “ where is your homework?” But the look of terror on your face shows... You don’t have it! It may be because of your laziness, business, or maybe you just didn’t want to do it. Many students have gotten very creative with their excuses. To see what excuses East High students have made for not turning in homework, an online poll was created, and according to the poll, kids have either used one of the excuses listed such as “I lost it...” Or “I was too busy with other activities to do it...”. Students have also shared that they didn’t say anything at
all or they have told the teacher the truth. “I’ve made an excuse for about all of my homework assignments, now there’s too many to count,” sophomore Chris Connelly said. “The most popular
excuses I’ve used is that they didn’t say when the homework was to be turned in or I had to work late the night before.” According to the Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development, an estimated 40 percent of students fail multiple classes in ninth grade, and in some cities, 50 percent or Page editor/ M. Stout, E. Dowler
more leave school without graduating. “The number of excuses I’ve made is way too many to count,” senior Autumn Lippold said. “I want to say my excuse is crazy but I just say I fell asleep. I don’t use many excuses for my homework because I just say nothing, or I say I just did not do it.” Many teachers are frustrated with this devastating fact. Brian Luft, who has been teaching ninth grade 20th Century World History at East High School for six years. “It is hard to believe that they don’t do the work because they have enough time to do it in class,” Luft said. “I think anyone can do the work, it’s quite easy,”.
10.)
My computer/device crashed and didn’t save my work
9.) I had too much homework
from my other classes to do this one
8.) I’ve been so busy with sports/ extra-curricular activities to do homework
7.) I had to go to a family event 6.) My parents made me go to bed
5.) I was too sick to do it 4.) I didn’t understand it 3.) The teacher didn’t help me 2.) I lost it 1.) I left it at home page / 9 feature
Behind the text
T
Scroll. Six letters. One syllable. One word. One million meanings. Story by/K. Whitmore
he low murmur of music being played from the speakers at the front. The soft click, click of keys being pressed on a laptop. The sound of chairs rolling around. You hear chatter. We hear stories coming to life. You see students playing on lap tops. We see hard work and dedication. You are the reader. We are the Scroll. “What classes get their work published?” Senior and co-editor Shirah Burton said. To some students the most light their homework sees is when they shove it into their backpack. However, there is a group of students whose work is seen by everyone. We are that group. Every B day we gather for the last hour and a half of school. For you it may just seem like a classroom. To us it is almost
like a second home. You may see peers, but we see a family. “Everyone has a specific location that changed their high school experience; the lunchroom, the
because it only makes me want to improve myself,” Burton said. Without a doubt, we make a difference with our stories. Whether it be minimal or large, there are changes to be noticed. For a Everyone has a specific location that lot of the staff, we changed their high school experience; the iffeelnotasmost though lunchroom, the gymnasium, the front steps, we help people heard. mine was the Scroll classroom,” Delaney said be Sometimes it can be hard gymnasium, the front hours it takes to create to speak out, with the steps, mine was the that specific piece of Scroll we make it easier. Scroll classroom,” work,” Delaney said. “I had a voice, I had East alumni and As journalist we are the power to make an Scroll veteran subjected to tons of impact,” East alumni Darian Delaney said. criticism. No matter and Scroll veteran When we first who you are, getting Lindsey Smith said. walked through 3060N told your work isn’t Even for the staffers we were just students. good can be difficult to it serves as an outlet for Now whenever we hear. In newspaper it our thoughts and ideas. leave we are journalists. doesn’t do well to dwell “I can pour my As individuals we have on the bad. We learned heart and soul out on a grown and as a whole that lesson pretty well. page, edit it and design we have flourished. “I am no longer it and publish it for Before Scroll, we saw offended by the everyone to see,” senior things in a shaded criticism of others. It and staffer Annie light. After, we see is more of a pleasing Khanthapengxay said. things in vibrant new sensation. I feed off Scroll has helped colors. We have a of negative comments us through a lot of
“
better appreciation for hard work. “After graduating from East High I look at every single newspaper I can get my hands on. I know the hard work and endless
Name: Shirah Burton Status: Current Position: Senior, Co-editor in chief Years on staff: Two Name: Annie Khanthapengxay Status: Current Position: Senior, Staffer Years on staff: Two
Page Editors/ K. Whitmore
hardships. However, we couldn’t have done any of this without the Wonder Woman behind it all. Momma Nat. Or more formally known as Ms. Niemeyer the journalism teacher at East. “What’s cool about Momma Nat is that you can ask her anything and she will always have an answer. She connects more with her students and is a fashionsta, Khanthapengxay said. “She cares. Not about how well you know the 50 states, or how many correct math problems you completed, but how you’re doing inside and outside of school,” Delaney said. Not only do we want to thank Scroll for the impact it has made on our lives, but for the family we became in the process. Thank you Scroll and Momma Nat.
Name: Lindsey Smith Status: Veteran Position: Junior at University of Iowa Years on staff: Two Name: Darian Delaney Status: Veteran Position: Sophomore at Iowa State Years on staff: One
page / 10
Scroll Staff: Part Three
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Mayson Williams can’t wait to write opinionated and emotional stories, as well as contribute story ideas.
Brais Freire – “I did journalism and we don’t have these kinds of classes in Spain and I found I really like to write, I really have good stories and that I’m improving every day I have a different point of view since I’m not from here.”
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Page Editor/ E. Rothmayer
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Elise Dowler is happy to be in newspaper, she’s hopeful that this will open new doors and that she can meet new people.
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Danielle O’Connor loves writing interesting stories and helping with ideas. She can’t wait for the experiences newspaper will bring her.
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Katy McCaull is happy to be back in newspaper, and ready to write fun and interesting stories.
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Fallon Trenter is a positive person to work with. She wanted to join the Scroll staff to create something that whole school could read.
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Last but certainly not least, we present to you the newest addition to your school newspaper. It’s Maddi Stout has always found journalism interesting, never too late to think about joining newspaper. If you’re interested, see Ms. Niemeyer in room and couldn’t wait to start newspaper because she loves 3060N. And now, finally, your to step out of her comfort Scroll Staff part three. zone and share new ideas.
Tr en
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Sto ut
Story/ E. Rothmayer
Anthony Arroyo heard newspaper was fun, and couldn’t wait to join to show off his writing skills.
Chris Trevino is a positive and happy person who already enjoys newspaper and he’s ready to show the school what he’s capable of.
page / 11 feature
Hate Is
Hate is what is between you and me, Hate is not what will set us free,
Hate is not hard to see, Racism you can find right in the streets, Hate is what is between you and me, Hate is not what will set us free,
Des Moines crime rate is up, 21 murders now more families torn up, Midwest has to arrest this hate, I don’t want to hear about another murder on channel 8, I see Obama trying to tighten up gun control in his debates.
written by Anthony Aroryo
You know what hate is? You can find right where you live,
School is filled with our society’s adolescence finding violence is easier than becoming the school president,
page/ A. Khanthaphengxay
Mommy vs Meth written by Daizie Mesta
Most days I feel like screaming at the top of my lungs, “I want my mommy back, Who is this monster you’ve become?!” Sit and try my best to understand and accept, But I really haven’t known who you are for quite a while I try to act tough, so I force this fake smile every time you look at me With hurt and being proud of your daughter all at once. I do however, understand one thing, You love someone else more than me, her name Crystal Meth, and I fear she won’t let you go. She’s had you wrapped around her pinky for a couple years now All of those years are nothing compared to my fear. Fear of you lying, fear of you dying. Fear of having so much faith in you and just being left crying.
It’s been nothing but heartache, pain, and misery knowing you’re always with her,
But I think I get it now. You choose her over me. You’ve told me to my face once that it was drugs over me Even that wasn’t enough to make me see. Today you called to tell me you were clean. You give me so much hope, then tomorrow it’s the same ole’ dope Fein. I still don’t have the strength to tell you I’m through with you Because I remember when it was always just me and you. This comes from the heart mommy, every word of it is true. Please mommy don’t let her steal you. She’s not a good girl, not like I am at least, she does bad things to you But of course, you don’t see. I once heard her say “when I possess you, you’ll steal and you’ll lie. You’ll realize what I’m capable of because I take and take until you have nothing. Don’t worry though, I help remove the pain.” It’s been said that when someone says important things to you You remember the last part the best. Mommy, you paid no attention did you? You always taught me to pay attention to detail, yet you didn’t do it well. I thought you were better than this, I seen it every day. How could you do this mommy? I just don’t know what to say.
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Whatever you finally chose, if and when you do, pretty please Please just stay. I love you mommy More than she ever will.
Little Girl
written by Jahleel Brazzle Home be in my sisters smile as white as piano keys She sings me piece from her lips melodies Home is not home anymore it never was I wanna love like Maya did her words Angelou abides in my sister, Songs escape her smile, Rhythm is her first language, Grace flows through her words, I have found comfort in her chorus She hums my sorrows to whole rest It’s in her that I know that I am needed She fills the gap of my mother, I am two years before her time Symphonies play off her hugs
Violins for eyes she is a sight for sore eyes,
My eyes have been sore for years now She makes me breath between every note, she is the laughter It is untreatable she treats me better than my sins deserve God dwells in her lungs she is never off key, She is the composer of my Orchestra I have made a bed in her notes, She has never broke the strings to my heart My harp plays on, It’s holy, She’s holy
Page Editors/ A. Khanthaphengxay
War
written by Anonymous You fought by the stars and stripes, I fear them. When I was little I asked what the stars meant, You thought for a moment and said “For friends and family.” Then what do the stripes mean? I asked.
You smiled and said pride. A week later you were gone, A year later I was dressed in black surrounded by people crying I asked mommy and she said that daddy isn’t coming home. I started to cry I looked at all the flags, expecting a star to fall off. A family member was gone, why wasn’t a star? Later on I learned it’s because you’re still here You never left us
The evidence of hate is found in the halls Bullies pushing kids down making their confidence fall. Bathrooms filled with opinionated bitches, Making girls feel less than what god made them gifted, Lunch rooms occupied with fast spreading rumors, Making the victim not know what to believe is truer. Hate is not hard to see, Racism you can find right in the streets, Hate is what is between you and me, Hate is not what will set us free,
Hate is a drug, Dug into the life of a thug, Sung in rich white neighborhoods where trump is loved, Happiness is hung and hate is coming off everyone’s tongue. Hate about killed young boy I know of, The gun shot rung and hit him in the chest He’s alive but he might be paralyzed until the day he is put to rest. Sad to see a 15 year old boy lose his future, God makes no mistakes Hopefully from now the boy makes fewer, I truly wish for him the best and I want for him to not to live his life in distress Hate is not hard to see, Racism you can find right in the streets,
“
Hate needs to be changed, Racism can’t always be the blame, Hate is not between you and me, Hate is not what will set us free, Thank you god Grandma I love you rest in peace
Untitled
written by Anonymous I once knew someone who said, “I can’t love I never will” I was thrown to the curb because it was true now I see that person being loved again and I worry their lover will be thrown away Just like he did to me. I want to warn them and say,
written by Anonymous
You said you liked me, Then you said you loved me. I warned you, told you it was a bad idea, that I was a bad idea. I said it would never work, you tried anyway. While I was with you I fought to forget everything, the people who made me feel unwanted, and unloved.
I tried, I truly did, for you. You don’t know my demons though. They hide during the day and reek havoc in the night. When your mind is clear they fill your head with fear and worry, sadness and doubt. My demons got in the way of us, my demons got in the way of me.
please don’t get too close
But a bigger part of me wants to say to the one I use to love, if you can now, will you pick me instead.
”
For me, writing poems is a way I can express my feelings and actions through words, senior Julian Emunah said.
Page Editors/ A. Khanthaphengxay
photo/ Diane Guzman
East High students write poems about their everyday thoughts
Why do republican candidates always seem negative toward Barracks resolutions? I don’t see the republicans in the house trying to come up with new conclusions, Hate between political parties has fucked up our system, Corruption is all I hear about when I listen.
Demonic
page 13/ feature
What is STEM?
HOW IT’S DONE
East journalist, Matt Buchacker spends a day at Hoover High School to see what school is like for others Story/ M. Buchacker
S- Science T- Technology E- Engineering M- Mathematics STEM schools focus on these subjects. Opens up opportunities for students to receive scholarships and grants.
I
n a hallway where you can walk at a fast pace and not run into the back of someone else and where you don’t have to worry about getting stuck on the stairs. This is one of the major differences between us [East High] and Hoover High School. Hoover is the smallest of all the DMPS school's, student count wise. Just under 1000 students Hoover is what is known as a STEM school. They take classes that specialize in one of the subjects (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) to help them get grants and
scholarships. With being a S.T.E.M school, Hoover has what is called a S.T.E.M room. The room is filled with Smart T.V’s with computer connections, a white board table and fun types of chairs for students to work on projects as a group or individually. They also are considered for a big national scholarship within S.T.E.M. Incorporated with World food prize that takes lots of time and papers to win. You have to be selected by your school, then by the state and then the national S.T.E.M. Program to receive the award. “We just get more attention than other stu-
dents, which I don’t think is very fair,” Hoover senior Lily Smith said. Hoover also has a club named Best Buds club which brings together students with intellectual and developmental issues and other students together. This way students who have disabilities have a chance to participate in things that other students get to every day Hoover is very similar to us in many ways as well. They have block classes, a version of what we call “Scarlet Block”. This a new additions to this year. They have it every day though. Each day of the week focusses on a different thing. Two days
Designed to interest students in STEM subjects from a young age Based off of NGSS (Next Generation Science Standards) and the CCSS (Common Core State Standards)
are basically a free time to work on homework or study for tests, Wednesday they have a guest speaker and the other two days they have assigned work to do. They have about the same class sizes, except when it comes to A.P. The classes tend to be a little bit larger even though there are less students, there are less blocks when certain classes are offered. The homework load isn’t bad there either. Both East and Hoover are block schedule schools, so teachers have tons of time in class to teach and get through things that there isn’t a huge need to have students do work outside of the classroom. Not all of the classes are S.T.E.M. classes. Other classes are blended into students schedules. There aren’t many extreme differences between us and Hoover other than a couple of clubs and them being a S.T.E.M. school.
Hoover students gather in the STEM room during scientific research for instruction from the teacher about their upcoming project on February 5.
Page Editors/ M. Buchacker J. Van Gundy
page / 14 feature
:ELSEWHERE
Fast facts about Johnston
East journalist, Jordan Vangundy, spends a day at Johnston High School to see what students day is like.
50 minute period.
story/ Jordan V.G
You’re sitting in a classroom a teacher puts the work on the Elmo as usual, but instead of handing you a piece of paper, he says pull out your iPads. With the rest of the class you pull the piece of technology out of your book bag, and pull up the module. If this doesn’t sound familiar it’s probably because you don’t go to Johnston, but before you make judgments on their this aspect. Johnston High School let’s get the obvious stuff out if the way, They have better things than east, they have less students than East High, and they are a predominantly
An outside view of Johnston High School. (to the right)
white High School. But here’s where things get interesting Johnston High School is not on a block schedule Unlike DMPS, they are still on a period schedule with blocks once a week for math and some science classes. That means instead of the one hour and 30 minutes, Johnston has 50 minutes for every period. Giving students less time during class to work but they have the same classes everyday. The class started and finished the same way, teachers and students stayed focused until the bell that sounds a whole lot like a phone ringing in every class. Students were able to stay focused and completed
the work asked of them. That is just one of the difference,they have approximately 1600 students and about the same amount of graduates every year around 400. Of course east has almost 1000 more students than that with the same amount of graduates. Now there are technical reasons for that including students transferring in and out of the school. But Johnston High School is a like East High in many ways, such as AP classes. They have different and very similar to the same AP classes as East. What was interesting was there are an average of 30 students in East’s AP literacy and
comprehension class, There was a total of 11 students in Johnston’s. The class started out with 16 but students dropped the class. 16 students in an AP class is still significantly less than an average of 30 students per AP class. The students were able to have a class wide discussion about a book they were reading, the entire class had read the pages required. And wear able to talk for 50 minutes about the American dream, characterization and the context of the book. Classes wear quieter but lacked personalty in some cases, Johnston definitely proves its worth.
Every student has an iPad. Math classes use one hour and 30 minutes, two times a week. Some classes (such as econ) are combined with multiple classes. 1600 students. Same classes everyday. Uses auditorium for class lectures. Bell sounds like phone. Archery taken as a gym course.
Page / 15 feature
For fun, or forever? Is it really worth it?
photo/ D. Guzman Ah, love. Sweet, innocent, beautiful; love. At least that’s what love is supposed to be, right? Teenagers often misinterpret what love is and what it’s supposed to be. Love is as fragile as glass, so why do we treat it like it’s a toy?
What’s your opinion on high school relationships?
story/ M. Williams Two percent. That’s it. According to ‘huffingtonpost.com’, only two percent high school relationships last forever. The person who you claim to be the love of your life probably will be your so called “soul mate” up until the last month of senior year. But, why do we give up so easily? Because we want something new and exciting? Because we want an easy “booty-call”, but we can’t have ‘easy access’ when the person we want is hundreds of miles away. What’s your excuse for your so called “soul
mate”? I bet most of the people who are in a relationship and read this will hope that their relationship will make it into the slim two percent category of forever. Of course, the hopeless romantics will be in denial of the small percentage and ignore the facts. Others will look at this as a sign and leave their doomed relationship before true heart-break occurs. We all see them; the couples that are drowning in the others saliva in the dead center of the hall. We see how
madly in love they are. And we all see how it probably won’t last. We all see it; Everyone: teachers, students, your best friends, acquantences, parents, etc. Love is one of the best feelings that can set off the butterflies in a person’s stomach. Of course everyone wants the feeling to last forever, but sometimes reality has to take its toll and open our eyes. Now ask yourself, is the relationship that you’re in just for fun, or is it forever?
2%
www.huffingtonpost.com
“I think that if the people are mature enough to be together to make it last in high school, they should. But if they aren’t then it’s pointless,” sophomore Jordan Williams said. “Get a room,” freshman Brennan Cheely said. “I think it’s too serious and we’re too young,” freshman Hunter Edwards said. “I think that not a lot of high school relationships will last. I think a lot of the times they’re fake. Most of the time they just get together because they see others in relationships,” freshman Kylee Miller said.
Page Editor/M. Williams
98%
Page/16 Opinion
High school sweethearts Alumni tying the knot this year Story/ L.Custard, C.Reynolds Photo/V.Bergan
Photo/C.Custard
Zak Laird & Vancy Bergan Class of 2011
Photo/J.Murray
Courtney Custard & Nick Roth Jerzie Murray & Connor Kouri Class of 2011& 2012 Class of 2011
Vancy and Zak got engaged March 1, 2014 in Las Vegas at the very top of the Stratosphere at 2 a.m. They are getting married June 25, the day before their eight year anniversary at Barnes Place in Adel, Iowa.
They met while riding the bus to school in middle school because they lived a block away from each other. They have been together six years and are getting married August 6 at Embassy Suites in Des Moines.
Photo/M.Champion
Photo/E.Lacher
They met in 7th grade at Goodrell Middle School. Theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve been together for eight years and three months. They are getting married on the beach at the Majestic resort in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. on Oct 4, at 2 p.m.
Photo/A.Stoutenberg
Page editor/ C.Reynolds/L.Custard
page / 17 feature
Stress 101: Story/B. Hail
photo/ B. Hail
Some people may think school is easy but for others its not. Senior Trinity Wignall is stressed out with all of the work she has to do.
Stressed, how about frustrated with school? How about the drama that comes with surviving high school? When you are a stressed out junior you may feel like an adult with a full time job. Some students are in sports it’s even harder to keep up with school work. “Since I’m in sports it really takes a lot of time management but if you stay on top
How East’s busiest students deal with their busy lives
of it, it doesn’t effect it a whole lot,” senior Trinity Wignall said. “It stresses me even more when I don’t manage my time well, and I have tons of work I have to catch up on,” Wignall said. How one student deals with stress may be completley different from another student “How I dealt with stress was I talked to my parents and friends when I get overwhelmed. I always
had a game plan or a checklist s o it didn’t hit me all at once,” Counselor Ms. Blumberg said. “Some coping methods are exercise, deep breathing, getting outside, listening to music, talking to someone you trust, and there is a helpful; app called Smileymind. The most important thing is don’t wait until the last minute to get your work done and it will be less stressful,” Ms. Blumberg said.
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Kanye West catches greatness with T.L.O.P Story/ A. Arroyo The new album “The Life Of Pablo” also known as “T.L.O.P.” is Kanye West’s seventh studio album and was released early on February 14 after Kanye’s SNL performance. The new album was released exclusively on TIDAL on February 14. The name of his new album has changed four times but three of the changes came in the last month before the release of the album. From “So Help Me God”, “Swish”, “Waves”, and now finally “T.L.O.P” Kanye really kept his fans on edge. This is Kanye’s first album since Yeezus in 2013 which was very disappointing. The new album contained
18 songs. Artist featured in the album were Chance the Rapper, Kirk Franklin, Kid Cudi, Desiigner, Rihanna, Young Thug, Chris Brown, The Weekend, Ty Dolla $ign, Frank Ocean, Caroline Shaw, Kendrick Lamar, and Post Malone.
featuring artist I felt Kanye really reached out to find new inspiration. One of the must hear songs has to be “Ultralight Beams” because it shows how Kanye can still put together a touching, inspiring song. Even though Kanye is an easy person to love and hate, he produced a song that So many musicians touch my life and made describes how people miss me who I am... I want to the old Kanye and hate make something great to the new Kanye. It’s called “I Love Kanye” which is honor my idols. so Kanye. Overall I am re- Kanye West ally impressed by “T.L.O.P” and it will be one of my My first impression of favorite albums of 2016. “T.L.O.P” was that Kanye If you love Kanye this brought the sounds of his will be your favorite album old music and mixed that of the year. If you hate with the new generation Kanye this will still be your of artist. Also with all the favorite album of the year.
“
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Kanye West tweets about The Life Of Pablo “This album is actually a Gospel album” “This is not album of the year. This is album of the life.” “respect the struggle… respect the hustle… respect the dreams… respect the movement…” “this new album is ONE of the greatest albums not the greatest just one of …”
13 Hours Directed by Michael Bay
Story/ C. Trevino Imagine yourself sitting in a Jeep, driving through the deserted streets of Benghazi, ruined building after another...then all of a sudden bullets start whizzing by your head and grenades start going off. This is what six courageous men had to go through for 13 hours. The movie 13 Hours came out on Jan. 15. It recounts the events of the six secret soldiers in Benghazi, Libya, the most dangerous city at the time. The soldiers had to defend the American compound after multiple terrorist attacks. These men had the courage to do what was right and protect the
compound, even though it wasn’t their responsibility. It was when the terrorist attacks began that I started to get interested. In the beginning, the movie was kind of slow. It dragged on for a bit, introducing everyone and what they do and what their average days consisted of. Out of the six soldiers, unfortunately 2 of them died in action, Tyrone S. “Rone” Woods, and Dave “Boon” Benton. The four surviving soldiers are Jack Da Silvia, who’s unidentified in real life, Mark “Oz” Geist, John “Tig” Tiegen, and Kris “Tanto” Paronto. Until the terrorist attacks
Page Editor/ A.Arroyo/ C. Trevino
Starring in “13 Hours”, John Krasinki, well-known as Jim Halpert, smart and sarcastic employee at Dunder Mifflin from hit tv show “The Office”, is transformed into elite soldier Jack Da Silvia in this epic movie.
happened, the film is pretty bland. Most of the good scenes are when the action begins and the soldiers start to fight back. The climax was really suspenseful and was probably my favorite part of the movie. This turning point was something I really enjoyed and can’t wait for you to experience. I would recommend 13
Hours to almost anyone. The movie is rated R and it wouldn’t be the best movie for a soldier with PTSD or someone that’s sensitive to gun violence to watch. It’s a very interesting movie. I was glued to my seat, I would’ve loved to use the restroom, but I was too afraid I would miss the action. Not only would I rec-
ommend it because I like and because it’s good, but because John Krasinki is in it. Most of us know him as Jim Halpert from the hit TV show “The Office”, but in the movie we know him as Jack Da Silvia, an ex-Navy SEAL. Overall the movie gets 9 out of 10 stars from me and I recommend you watch it as soon as you can.
Page 19 / reviews
Remember why you wrote it
Photo/ D. Guzman
T
Story/ S. Burton
here is no better remedy than a pen and pencil itself. Being able to express my heart, mind, and soul not only on a sheet of paper but on stage is what sets me “free”. Spoken word poetry are the roots that entwine within me. Poetry is what made me sprout into the person I am today. My first time performing my untold story of love is what lit a fire inside of me. That same exact day is when I realized that poetry is my everything; writing is my everything. “I wish the world would spin a little slower when you’re around because I don’t want this time to end./ I want spend the rest of eternity with you and
only you because you’re all I need./ And you satisfy the greed I have for more./ The taste I want to explore and the aching pain I have to endure when you’re not around./ You make me a little more patient./ As if you’re my doctor and I’m sitting in your waiting room./ I can never get tired of this./ It’s what every woman desires to exist./ I wish you could just stay forever; and never leave my side./ I’ll walk along with you as you guide me to happiness./ That way we can make the happiest ending ever.” Each feeling described throughout the words I have written down and spit out of my mouth in front of a crowd makes me a little more sane. When you
write down every thought that goes through your mind, things become a bit more easy; I promise. And when you present those words to an audience, those thoughts transform into a voice that is strong enough to change lives. “I think I’m in love./ I guess I just can’t get enough because when the good times get rough; I know you’ll always be around./ Trust me when I say that we are bound to be together./ Just like the yawn to my morning, we are inseparable./ And till dawn I’m rejoicing because we are inseparable./ You give me life./ A solid concrete foundation./ No temptation, just the domination of this creation called love./ I feed off
of the way you make feel so complete./ I mean the affection you release./ I mean the words you repeat./ I love you, I love you, I love you./ This is a critical condition./ The admissible definition of true love at first sight./ But this isn’t a fairy tale./ Let’s get a little non-fictional and add an additional form of value./ Perhaps a kiss.” I did not just write this piece to share my “truth” but I wrote it so others could know that they are not alone. When I tell you that it is possible to change someone’s life or even perspective by laying out what has been scrambled through your mind, it could nearly be called an understatement. No matter the situation or people involved, when you
feel the need to empty your soul full of love, jealousy, or hatred, I recommend you do it because someone out there feels the truth that you are speaking. I guarantee you that someone out there has been through or is possibly going through exactly what you have lived. “It’s a pleasure being able to be with the person I want to be with forever even though it’s hard for me to admit it./ I sometimes brush it off and just forget it./ Still you know it’s true./ Especially when each time you pass through; my mind of course; I get this kind of feeling./ My stomach starts to bubble./ And my head starts rumble as stumble over these words../ I love you. I love you. I love you.”
I’ll walk along with you as you guide me to happiness. That way we can make the happiest ending ever. Page Editor/ S. Burton
page / 20 opinion
#OscarsSoWhite Lack of diversity in nominees causes controversy
Story/ J. Salgado Not a fraction of color has been seen for 730 days. It has been all white for the past two years. This is a serious problem that has strongly displayed itself in the Oscars. The lack of representation for men and women of color
“
The media does not promote the greatness in people of color, -Words Taylor
The Academy consists of 94 percent Caucasian, two percent African American, and less than two percent Latino and Asian actors. Many minorities are being deprived of the opportunity to showcase their talent in the film industry. The lack of inclusion in this year’s Oscars only demonstrates the bigger issue of race we face in our country. White men and women are being cast to play roles that represent an ethnicity other than their own, and are being rewarded for playing a role that should never have been theirs in the first place. Resorting to cultural appropriation and whitewashing, Hollywood has done an excellent job in destroying any chance actors of color have to represent
”
has raised controversy in regards to the 88th annual Academy Awards held at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood, California. While many people are furious with the fact that there has been all white nominees, for the second consecutive year, actors are not surprised.
Poet Words Taylor
“I think the lack of diversity in the Oscars affects the youth immensely. We constantly tell our youth that you can do anything and be
anything if you are willing to work hard at it; the Oscars proves that there is a cap to how far that hard work will take you. It shows that your hard work doesn’t mean anything unless your talent is approved of and accepted by white people. We are treated as though our talent is mediocre.”
Page Editor/ J. Salgado
themselves with dignity. It’s unfair to see men and women of color watch as their white co-stars take home Oscars year after year, while they have sacrificed more than can be accounted f o r . T h i s undeniable prejudice that is sweeping over Hollywood is destroying the dreams of actors that are being ignored and disregarded by white producers and fellow actors. These actors have tremendous talent and need to be fully recognized by Hollywood no matter the color of their skin. I will not watch the
Oscars this year, or the following years. When people like me are finally depicted in the media just as often as white actors, I will k n o w that our society finally s e e s us as equals. Our skin tone does not define our success. Minorities have suffered e n d l e s s decades of discrimination, degradation, dehumanization, and hate. It’s time for white people to share the spotlight with minorities. It’s
time for people of color to be applauded for their sheer amount of talent and worth. The boycotting of The Oscars is mandatory. By not watching the Oscars we are showing how absolutely disgusted we are with the white dominance in the media and in the film industry. We need to inform people of the discrimination that plays a role in the nomination of actors. We need more people to realize the unconscious prejudice that is present in our society.
“I want to applaud all of the actors and actresses of color that didn’t get nominated tonight. The reason why I say that is because I want them to understand that tonight should not determine the hard work and effort that you put into your craft,” Comedian and actor Kevin Hart said. “I would like the media to ask all the white nominees and studio heads how they feel about another all white ballot. If someone has addressed this and I missed it then I stand mistaken,” Film maker Spike Lee said.
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High school sports injuries Are sports too dangerous? Story/ M. Naovarath
Photo/C.Velazquez Playing defense during the pregame warm up is freshman Justice Ross. She was a starter for the Lady Scarlets but her season was cut short when she was injured early in the season.
Photo/S.Young Not trying to let his opponent escape is junior Case Tillotson. He missed the first month of wrestling season. Luckily Tillotson was able to return for the remainder of the season.
In a matter of seconds the dream that you worked so hard to turn into reality can be jeopardized by something you had no control over. Everyday athletes are getting sidelined by injuries caused by playing the sport they love. It can vary from a minor injury to needing an emergency surgery. Every time these athletes take the stage there is always a possibility that it could be the last time they do. Here at East High two athletes share their story of how it felt to be sidelined due to their injury.
“I asked ‘why me?’ I just felt defeated.” -Justice Ross Justice Ross may have played basketball her entire life but this year she’s a rookie to the game. Being a true freshman she was expected to start for the Lady Scarlets. The sixth game into the season she tore her ACL in her right knee. This was a major setback for Ross, she was having a successful season and this would be the second time she tore her ACL. This year was her first season back because the year before she tore her ACL in her left knee while playing
Page Editor/ M. Naovarath
basketball for her eighth grade travel team. Ross has a long road of recovery ahead of her. The expected time of full recovery is six months and afterwards depending on the patient, or surgeon, a brace will be needed to be worn when playing. The brace is not permanent it is purely dependent on the patient. Luckily for Ross she is a freshman who still has a few more years to try to acquire an athletic scholarship. “Knowing that I’m young and that my teammates need me is what motivates me to keep playing,” Ross said. Ross is hoping to receive a scholarship from a division one college to further her career. Another student who also wants to further their career is junior Case Tillotson. Tillotson is involved in three sports here at East High, those sports include football, wrestling and rugby. This past wrestling season Tillotson suffered from a concussion and had to sit out for three weeks. That may not sound like a very long time but those who have dealt with a concussion can say that it is a very miserable and long recovery. An injury to the head is taken very seriously especially in young adults due to their brains still developing. After
those three weeks, Tillotson could not return to wrestling immediately as he had to follow the “return to play” protocol, this consist of a full week of practice without contact with each day slowly increasing the intensity. “The hardest thing for me to do with my injury was to follow the return to play because I just wanted to practice,” Tillotson said. An athlete cannot start the “return to play” protocol unless he or she has gone through a full 24 hours
“When I got hurt I was wondering what happened because I lost a good amount of my memory.” -Case Tillotson without any concussion symptoms. Tillotson struggled with memory loss and seemed to be confused easily while having a concussion. The love he has for the sport and competition is what motivates him to continue playing even after this serious injury. Injuries are inevitable. Yes, there are ways to decrease the chances but anything can happen.
Did You Know? 1. Females are more vulnerable to concussions compared to males. 2. The ACL provides about 90 percent of stability in the knee joint. 3. Roughly 300,000 athletes suffer from a concussion every year in the U.S. 4. 70 percent of ACL injuries occur without contact and are a result of bad mechanics. 5. 33 percent of all sports concussions occur in practice.
Page/22 sports
Intro to s ring sports Meet the faces of athletes ready for the upcoming season to start Story/ T. McPhee A. Ayersman
Soccer Santiago Rios Grade: 11 “I want all our effort because we have the players to have a good team and a better season,” Rios said. First game is April 4 at 7p.m. at North High School. Kylie Hanna Grade: 10 “We will have more experienced coaching with Bentley coming to help this season,” Hanna said. First game is April 4 at 4:45p.m. at East High School.
Tennis Kyle Wadden Grade: 12 “I think we will get better as a team this year from last year,” Wadden said. First meet is April 2 at 10a.m. at East. Michaela Verwers Grade: 10 “I think new people coming in and trying hard at practice will help this season,” Verwers said. First meet is April 5 at 4:15p.m. at Saydel High School. Page editor/ A. Ayersman T. McPhee
Boys Rugby Andrew Osman Grade: 11 “I want to win more games than we did last year and get in better shape,” Osman said. schedule TBA
Track
Isaac Toluwalase Grade: 10 “Our teams will be working on getting faster and I want to go to state,” Toluwalase said. First meet is March 15 at 3p.m. at the Iowa State indoor track. Deala Brown Grade: 10 “We are working on going to state and building team effort, and working together,” Brown said. First meet is March 14 at 3p.m. at the Iowa state indoor track.
Girls Golf Kalani Lilly Grade: 10 “Hopefully we are focused this year and are ready to win,” Lilly said. First meet is April 2 at 8:30a.m. at Warrior Run golf course.
page / 23 sports
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