April 2018

p

Volume 11, Issue 7

wer

to the people

April 20, 2018

INSIDE: Bombings...Page 2 Autism Awareness...Page 12 Study Spots...Page 17

Soccer Playoffs...Page 19

2

News Volume 11, Issue 7

state of the

UNION the DATES

Austin bomber revealed as resident of Pflugerville Mar. 21

Megan Fletcher | Copy Editor

Suspect Mark Anthony Conditt dies in an explosion in his car during a shootout with Austin police in Round Rock.

News media reveals Conditt lived in Pflugerville, off of 2nd St. The FBI and the Pflugerville Police Department evacuates parts of Pflugerville and detains Conditt’s roommates for questioning.

Mar. 18

Mar. 2

Two unidentified men were seriously injured after they possibly triggered a bomb with a tripwire across a sidewalk in Austin.

The first package bomb in Austin kills Anthony Stephan House, 39, on his front porch.

Mar. 12

Mar. 20

A woman was injured and her son Draylen Mason, 17, was killed in their kitchen in east Austin after opening a package bomb.

Esperanza Herrera, 75, was critically injured after she picked up a package bomb in Austin, near the site of the first bomb.

One person was injured after a package bomb exploded in a FedEx center in Schertz, Texas outside of San Antonio.

An old military device exploded in a Goodwill store in Austin, injuring one person. The Austin Police Department stressed the incident is unrelated to the earlier package bombings.

my STORY

Editor confronts conflicting feelings on growing up houses down from terrorist McKenna Lucas | Asst. Editor

I remember I was lying in bed listening to my mom getting ready for work, and talking to my dad. She kept saying that a news station was parked in front of our house. My dad didn’t believe her, but within a couple of minutes and a few phone calls, the majority of the neighborhood knew that KXAN News was outside waiting for something to happen.

KXAN reporters were trying to interview our neighbors down the street, they were under investigation for the Austin bombings. Their son, Mark Anthony Conditt, would later be confirmed as the serial bomber.

Part of me wanted to see what would happen, I wanted to gain some perspective on the intricate relationship media has with tragedy. Within one hour, my small neighborhood completely changed.

There were cars lining the streets and

journalists knocking on doors trying to get interviews. The first time my door was knocked on, I opened the door to meet a reporter for Buzzfeed. He wanted to interview me about the Conditts. I was conflicted.

Do I tell the whole world what I actually thought about my neighbors?

Do I tell them everything I know about them?

What was I supposed to say? I never even met Mark Conditt, but I knew two of his sisters and his parents. And for some reason I don’t think the reporter wanted to hear that I would have never in a million years expected the Conditt family to be tied to all of this. I accepted the reporter’s business card, but politely declined, because at the end of the day, I realized that I didn’t know my neighbors at all.

I was in 6th grade when my family moved onto Willow Street. My mom started crying when she saw our house, she said

she just knew this was the house we were supposed to live in. My neighborhood is small and quite quaint looking. It was a quiet old neighborhood filled with sweet retired people. The Conditts were the only family in my neighborhood with kids our age, so naturally my sister and I tried to become friends with the girls living there.

That summer, we played with them all the time. They had a homemade tree house, an above ground pool, and a slightly dangerous trampoline. The older sister and I never got close; she was quiet and we didn’t have a ton in common. Once summer ended, my sister and I went back to school and I stopped going to their house. Eventually, my sister grew apart from them as well. I never met Mark, he was never home when I would go to their house.

I think that’s the craziest thing about this whole experience. I never knew him, sometimes I forgot he even existed. But

now there’s a big stain on the Conditts’ reputation, a stain on the house they grew up in. It’s hard to believe that someone who was raised by such good people could do such devastating and inhumane crimes to strangers. I spent hours playing with his little sisters, we invited them to birthday parties, dog sat for them while they were on vacation. They never appeared violent, racist, or suspicious.

They were a normal family, and finding out that their son was the bomber was both shocking and upsetting to everyone.

He was a murderer and terrorist, and I believe that he should be labeled as one.

Despite his family, his problems, who he once was; he made an individual choice to end innocent lives. I have sympathy for my neighbors losing a son, but I do not have sympathy towards him.

I shouldn’t live in a world where classmates are shooters and my neighbors are bombers.

BY THE NUMBERS

Features April 20, 2018

Map reveals locations of Austin bombings

Last month, Mark Anthony Conditt planted package bombs in Austin that killed four people. On March 21, Conditt committed suicide off of Interstate 35 in Round Rock and was revealed to have lived and grew up in Pflugerville. Below is a map detailing the Conditt’s bombing spree and the events of March 21.

Suspect commits suicide Off of I-35 in Round Rock, Conditt blows himself up in his car after a shootout with police.

Do you think the Austin bomber was a terrorist?

Williamson County

“Terrorism is the attacking of any specific country done by a group of people. That could be any group of people, but I don’t think he was a terrorist because he didn’t belong to a certain group. It’s still really bad because it’s mass murder.”

-Jake Johnston, 10

“I believe that he was a terrorist because he caused terror to a lot of people in the neighborhood and scared a lot of people. And that’s what terrorists are, they scare people.”

-KyLeigh Collins, 12

Parts of Pflugerville evacuated On March 21, San Antonio FBI and local police secure and evacuate a perimeter around Conditt’s residence. Pflugerville Mayor Victor Gonzales makes a statement.

Inte

“Anything that happens that involves bombing or a shooting is a terrorist attack no matter what race you are, your ethnicity, or where you come from. If it was a more local thing with someone causing trouble in Pflugerville it wouldn’t have been a terrorist attack but obviously it was because he bombed people.”

-Sarah Rivas, 9

5

Abigail Hill| Photographer

te 3

Camryn Sadlier | Reporter

rsta

Alex Fulton | Co-Editor

3

Connally High School

Travis County

Police find confesstion tape Investigators find bomb materials and a confession tape in Mark Anthony Conditt’s Pflugerville home. Investigators have yet to release the confession.

Tripwire bombing March 18 bombing kills two unidentified men, this time with a tripwire

Texas Capitol

Esperanza Herrera Also on March 12, an additional explosion injures Esperanza Herrera, 75, in Austin.

Anthony Stephan House March 2 package bombing kills Anthony Stephan House, 39, in Austin. House is survived by his wife and children.

Draylen Mason On March 12, the second explosion kills Draylen Mason, 17, in Austin. Mason had been accepted to the Butler School of Music at the University of Texas at Austin.

4

News Volume 11, Issue 7

NEWS BRIEFS

Costume designer advances to state Anna Schulze | Reporter

Senior Sara Fusco, is the first student in the theater program to advance to state in costume design. Competitors were given two stories, A Raisin in the Sun and to Kill a Mocking Bird. They then had to create a costume set based on the two novels and from there judges determined those who advanced.

“Our theater department hasn’t competed in this category in a while, so it was a big honor to be chosen to compete,” senior Sara Fusco said. “I never thought I would make it this far, it’s a really big

deal.”

Only 35 students from around Texas were chosen to advance to state. Competitors were given room to be creative and add their own spin on the costumes. Fusco however decided to submit costumes that followed the traditional style of the 1960s, the setting of both books.

“I spent many month watching movies like the Help and Hidden Figures,” Fusco said. “Most people think that time period was all hippies and flowers, but it was much more, I wanted to get it right.”

District announces new school calendar Brisa Espinoza | Reporter

After votes and comments were taken from the Pflugerville community over the 2018-2019 school year, the school calendar has been announced with the approval of the Board of Trustees. The calendar for next year has students starting on Aug. 16 and ending on May 30. Students will also be given Thanksgiving break from Nov. 19-23, Winter break from Dec. 24- Jan. 8, Dec. 21 will be an early release and Spring break will be from March 1822.

“I think there’s a lot of advantages to the new calendar, there’s a lot of excitement around ending school before June is over,” Principal Daniel Garcia said. “Comments from students have really been positive over winter break and

the timing that the break starts closer to Christmas and stays out longer. There will be really good opportunities with the way the calendar is structured.”

Following the announcement over next year’s school calendar, the board of the trustees also announced the decision regarding class schedules. High schoolers will continue to have a block day schedule for the 2018-2019 school year instead of the 7 period school day that was considered to take the block schedule’s place.

“The decision was made to stay on the block schedule for next year and then transition the following year to a 7 period day,” Garcia said. “I think that will give us plenty of time with the change.”

Band members in Austin Youth Orchestra

Anna Schulze | Reporter

Band students every year compete for chairs in the Region Orchestra, an audition to determine the best players of each instrument in the area. Top students are not only recognized but often asked to play for the Austin Youth Orchestra (AYO). Seniors Logan Seaton and Daniel Schulze, junior Marc Abdallah, senior Duncan Crow, junior Samuel Simcick, sophomore Valerie Hernandez, junior Gracie Anderson, freshman Hoang-Nghi Nguyen, junior Katy O’Brien and junior Jeremy Ryan made the orchestra.

Winter percussion wins bronze medal Anna Schulze | Reporter

Winter Percussion participated in the Texas Color Guard Circuit (TCGC) on April 14. They performed in front of a panel of judges that scored them based on music, visual, music effect and visual effect. Groups that made finals preformed a second time, and were then given their place.

“We placed third in TCGC State Open Class,” senior Nicole Guebara said. “My favorite part of the competition was performing and watching the crowd react to

different moments in the show.”

The title of the show was Mixed Emotions, and featured a roller coaster of ups and downs represented through music and dance, that are all part of the human experience.

“At certain moments in the show I would look over at my friends and smile because we were having a good run, or sounded good,” Guebara said. “It’s really great to share those moments with other people in the group while performing,”

“It is a very selective audition process,” senior Logan Seaton said. “You not only have to audition to get in, but from there you have to audition to determine which group you will be in based on playing level.”

AYO holds practices every Monday night from 7 to 9 p.m. at Stephen F. Austin High School, and holds two concerts in the spring open to everyone.

“I enjoying hearing the strings play,” Seaton said. “It’s an opportunity we don’t get here so I really enjoy it.”

Dell offers internships for computer science Anna Schulze | Reporter

Computer science students across Pflugerville submitted resumes to Dell for a chance to receive the first ever paid internship offered to public high school students. Seniors Rafael Pangan, Matthew Guthrie, Christian Hernandez, and senior Liandra Niyah got accepted to intern for $15 an hour for six weeks.

“I’m very excited, Dell is extremely secretive,” Niyah said. “They haven’t told us much, but I know we will be having a

competition with students from the other high schools in order to find out what new project we will be working on.”

Applicants had to go through an extensive process in order to receive a chance to intern, complete with live interviews, drug tests, and applications.

“I am very comfortable with my computer skills and programming,” Niyah said “I feel like we are ready for the basics, and I can’t wait to get started.”

HOSA girls advance to State Conference Maria Torres | Reporter

Senior Savannah Berger and junior Reem Fashho advanced to the Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA) State Conference in Dallas Apr. 12-14. In their area competition, Berger placed second in Nurse Assisting and Fashho placed second in Prepared Speaking.

“I was really happy on how I performed,” Fashho said. “I thought I gave a good speech and I think I was perceived well.”

The area which Berger and Fashho will compete is comprised of 27 counties around Texas with over 1000 students in various high schools. However, instead of students competing against all of the other competitors, HOSA competitors only face

against those with the same topic.

“It’s a little intimidating knowing that there’s so many students,” Fashho said.

“It’s a relief to know that you’re only competing against the people in your specific competition.”

HOSA is an extracurricular activity for high school students that encourages many students to get an occupation in the medical field.

“Before coming into high school, I knew a couple of kids who were in it and they encouraged me to do it,” Fashho said. “I have a motivation to enter the medical field later so I thought it would be a good opportunity to get started and know some things about it.”

Reem Fashho (left), Chistine Gilbert, and Savannah Berger (right) at at the HOSA State competition.

UIL members advance to state competition Brisa Espinoza | Reporter

The UIL Academics qualifiers competed in the regional tournament on April 15 at Baylor University. The Academic team placed sixth in Overall Regional Academic Sweepstakes. The Speech team placed first earning Regional Champions, junior Rene Otero also earned first in Informative Extemp., becoming Regional Champion as well. Senior Sophie Ellis placed third in poetry and junior Lau-

Jenna Damen (left), Sophie Ellis, Rene Otero, Payton Corie and Lauren Thompson (right) win first place Speech Team at Regional Competion at Baylor Univeristy.

ren Thompson placed fourth. Sophomore Payton Corie placed fourth in Prose.

Junior Megan Fletcher placed third in Headline Writing.

Sophomore Hunter Damstrom placed fourth in Computer Applications In May, Ellis, Otero and Fletcher will be advancing to the UIL State Tournament.

Corie, Damstorm and Thompson will be alternates for the State competition.

Megan Fletcher with her third place medal from the Headline Writing competition.

AWARDS &

5

News April 20, 2018

accolades Track shows success at district meet Brisa Espinoza | Reporter

The varsity track and field team competed in the 13-6A District track meet on April 11 and 12 at Round Rock High School.

In Men’s varsity, senior Tobias Harris placed third in the 300-meter dash, advancing to the Area track meet. Jacob Lee and Darian Sams placed first and fourth in the 400 meters, both runners will be advancing to the area meet. Spencer Boykin placed fourth in the 3200 meters, advancing to area. Ryan Alvarado also advanced to area, in the 300 meter hurdles. The 4x100 meter relay placed second, with runners Jacob Lee, Adam Cousins, Tobias Harris and Ife Ogunleye.

The 4x400 also advanced to area, plac-

ing third, with runners Jacob Lee, Darian Sams, Ryan Alvarado and Josh Alvarado.

Cliffton Styles placed fourth in Shot Put and Makody Robertson placed fourth in Discus, both advancing to area. Dylan Disu and David Simpson, placed first and second, advancing to area.

In Womens varsity, Macy Burnham Holley placed third in the 100 meters, advancing to area. Erin Wilson placed second in the 400 meters, advancing to area. The 4x400 meter relay, placed second, with runners Saibree MarchandSimmons, Macy Burnham Holley, Bryana Hunter and Erin Wilson. Johana Jones placed third in Long Jump, advancing to Area.

Science Olympiad excels in regional tournament Kyla White | Reporter

The Science Olympiad teams came in first and second place at the Corpus Christi Regional Tournament on March 4 and 5, and members from each team will compete at the State Tournament this weekend at Texas A&M University.

Senior Megan Pound and junior Peter Heinisch won first in Optics. Senior Vivianne Schaffer and Alex Hayek placed first in Helicopter, while senior Abeer Amro and sophomore Zach Baker earned third. In Wi-Fi Lab, Amro and senior Zuhayr Mirza placed second. Also in Optics, seniors Samuel Perales and Brinda Prasad won second place. Perales and Prasad then went on to win first in Astronomy, and sophomore Trey Selissen and Pound won third in the same event.

Seniors Christian Bowell and Gabee Viduya got first in Hovercraft, Heinisch and senior Zuhayr Mirza got third. In Science Word, senior Christian Douglas and junior Marc Abdallah got first, while junior Isabel Rodriguez, and freshman Jeremiah Gorman got third. In the event WIDI, Prasad and Abdallah won first and Rodriguez and Pound won third. Douglas and junior Madeline Lloyd got third in Towers. In Disease Detectives, junior Erin Minnich and Hayek won first. In Herpetology, freshman Josh Manigsaca and Lloyd won first, in the same event sophomore Kristine Saythongkham and Rodriguez won second. Gorman and senior Yasmeen Amro won third in Anatomy and Physiology. Viduya and Hayek won second in Microbe Mission.

Senior Vivianne Schaffer works an Affine Cypher for Science Olympiad on the board.

6

Opinions Volume 11, Issue 7

Staff Editorial

your TURN

Arming teachers is costly, ineffective After the devastating shooting at Majory Stoneman Douglas High School on Feb. 14, more and more have contributed to the gun control conversation by saying instead of decreasing the number of guns in public, we need to increase the number of what the National Rifle Association calls “good guys with guns,” namely teachers.

Many school districts already implementing armed teachers in other states have either lost their insurance coverage or seen their premiums skyrocket as a result of “increased risk” from carrying a gun, according to a letter from an insurance company regarding Kansas House Bill 2052, which legalizes the use of armed teachers. This proposed solution only results in the loss of quality teachers due to a low salary combined with possibility of an increase in insurance costs.

In recent months, PfISD’s budget has been in the local spotlight, as money concerns almost forced the district to move to a traditional schedule. Most training programs to use handguns in Texas cost anywhere from $75 to $200 per person, making the cost to train PfISD’s teachers to use guns would be about $208,000 that the school district simply doesn’t have. Why spend money to train teachers to shoot guns when that money could be used to give students a better education?

Past incidents show armed teachers don’t necessarily make children in school safer. In March, a California teacher accidentally fired his personal gun in his classroom, according to CBS News. The gun fired into the ceiling, but bullet fragments became lodged in a studen’s neck, causing bleeding. The school district

placed him on administrative leave, as it is illegal to carry a weapon on a campus in California, although the teacher was a reserve police officer.

A 2013 FBI study on active shooter situations found that in 11 of the 160 studied active shooter incidents from 2000 to 2013, the “situation” ended after unarmed principals, teachers and students who “confronted” and/or restrained the shooter. Educational environments were one of the most frequent locations for shootings, second only to “areas of commerce.”

School resource officers (SROs) are currently the only people other than law enforcement allowed to carry handguns on a PfISD campus, and their existence in schools eliminates the need for arming teachers. “Good guys with guns” only works when the “good guys” have a badge. Even in other school districts, SROs contain violence and delinquency in the student population. In March, a Maryland high school student shot two other students before class that morning, and resource officer Blaine Gaskill shot the shooter’s gun. While the officer didn’t injure the assailant, the incident proves school resource officers are sufficient security in schools, and districts don’t need to use their few resources to unnecessarily arm classroom teachers.

Schools don’t need armed teachers to secure their schools, especially ones that already have armed police in the halls. We need to take the money we would have wasted on arming teachers and instead put it into education, mental health care, and better gun laws that prevent guns from getting into unstable hands.

The Hawk, the official student newspaper of Hendrickson High School, is an open forum for the exchange of ideas and opinions.

Hendrickson High School 19201 Colorado Sand Drive Pflugerville, TX 78660 http://www.pfisd.net/HHS (512) 594-1100 Student Population: 2750 Staff: 269

Adviser: Kari Riemer Principal: Daniel Garcia

www.facebook.com/HawkNewspaper

Do you think arming teachers will prevent causalities in future school shootings?

Opinions expressed reflect the beliefs of the student author and do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the entire Hawk Staff, the Hawk Adviser, the Hendrickson Faculty and Staff, or the Principal.

Letters to the editor are welcomed, and may be dropped off in E211 Corrections will be printed when brought to the attention of the staff.

The Hawk is printed monthly at Granite Printing in Taylor, Texas. 1,500 copies are printed each run, and are distributed to the student body through Talon and newsstands throughout the building.

Editorial Staff Co-Editors: Alex Fulton & Ileana Perez Copy Editor: Megan Fletcher Assistant Editors: Holly Hambleton, Abigail Hill, McKenna Lucas, Kaitlin Mackey

Brisa Espinoza Virginia Gaffney Taylor Hawthorne Taylor Hedlund

Reporters

Paul Le McKenzie Quiroz Camryn Sadlier Anna Schulze

Samuel Perales | Cartoonist

Maria Torres Zachary Valdez Kyla White Carolina Yanez

Harrison Lloyd | Cartoonist

“Arming teachers will do more harm than good because teachers should be fully focused on teaching students, not having a weapon. Teachers didn’t sign up to be an SRO. I know the government is wanting to keep students safe as much as they can, but this isn’t the path to take.”

Ian Falkenbury, 9.

“When it comes to the question if arming teachers will prevent school shootings, I’m neutral. There are so many things that can go wrong such as a possibility of a student getting a hold of the gun. If the state were to arm teachers, I think only a group of five teachers should get a firearm to carry at school after rigorous background checks. It would create hesitation in a shooters mind to come to a school knowing that we’re armed. Arming teachers can prevent casualties but as a student it puzzles me knowing that teachers I go to learn from, have a gun on hand.”

Ahad Syed, 12.

“Arming a teacher could prevent a school shooting from happening. If teachers are trained and use the gun professionally it could make an affect in the situation.

Though, it may not exactly stop it from happening, teachers that are armed could wound the shooter causing more lives to be saved.”

Chase Park, 11.

Associations Interscholastic Press League, Texas Association of Journalism Educators, Journalism Educators Association, Columbia Scholastic Press League

p

wer

to the people

Honors ILPC Bronze Star, 2014 & 2015, 2017 Columbia Scholastic Press League, Gold Medalist 2016, 2017 Silver Crown, 2017, 2018

Volume 11, Issue 7

April 20, 2018

INSIDE: Bombings...Page 2 Autism Awareness...Page 12 Study Spots...Page 17

Design by Ileana Perez Photo by Ileana Perez

Soccer Playoffs...Page 19

HIT or

7

Opinions April 20, 2018

MISS

STAAR testing schedule poorly planned During STAAR testing last week, non-testing students were forced to stay in their 7B class for over two hours, leaving 8B classes with only about 35 minutes left of instruction. Instead of having a grossly elongated 7B, the administration could have had non-testers follow a regular non-Talon schedule and have testers return to 8B after their completed test. This lack of schedule organization and less time in 8B classes is a miss.

A+ promotion inspires savings deposits To encourage students to save money, A+ Federal Credit Union enters anyone who deposits more than $5 to their savings account into a drawing for a $50 visa gift card. The promotion lasts all of April and once students make four deposits they receive a prize. With many seniors already making their college enrollment fees, this is a great way for students to begin reducing the inevitable student loans that come with graduation. Even for underclassmen, learning to save money for large investments, such as college and cars, is important to learn now, rather than later. Through the promotion, the Credit Union teaches students this vital lesson, making the campaign a hit.

No protection from rain when walking Whenever it rains, students with portable classes have to walk to class without having any way to be shielded away from the rain. This is especially an issue when students forget to bring a jacket or an umbrella. With the portables being permanently put in, the disregard of having coverage from the rain on the sidewalks is a miss.

Kindness week teaches new lessons Kindness week was a week hosted by the No Place for Hate committee, dedicated to bring awareness to students about being more kind to others and accept one another. This is important because its reminding students to have a positive and welcoming environment. Kindness week and the lesson it was teaching to students is a hit.

my STORY Editors write letter to movement leaders To the students of Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School, February 14 was tragic and unimaginable. You experienced extreme violence and hatred on a day normally filled with love. With that, you lost 17 members of your community and all sense of safety. But instead of waiting for a politician to ignite change, you took it into your own hands, and led a movement over the past month stronger than anything we’ve ever seen, so to you we say thank you.

You are standing up for your beliefs even though everyone discredits your opinions. Unfortunately, politicians refuse to see the reasoning behind the movement and are quick to shame young people for wanting a say in the “adult world.” But, it’s our world too. We have the right to our futures and the right to live them. We have never truly been encouraged to speak our minds and now when we are speaking on matters important to our generation, no one wants to talk about them because they are uncomfortable and inconvenient. But the truth is, there is no comfortable time to talk about mass murder. So if not now, when?

Seeing students our age murdered in Parkland was a wakeup call because we saw ourselves and our friends in their place. While school shootings have happened prior to our births, we finally realized the reality of them due to the media presence and viral posts from inside the school. Hearing about a mass shooting on the news is not the same as scrolling past a Snapchat story of a dead body on the classroom floor.

Seeing death on a platform where we normally see happiness was such a contrast to our daily lives where we had no choice but to pay attention. After February 14th, everything was put into perspective. We shouldn’t be studying classroom layouts for the quickest exit or the safest hiding places. We should be initiating change to prevent this from happening to anyone else.

Over a month later, we marched to the state capital with signs that read “I thought you were pro-life” and “This isn’t right or left, it’s life or death.” This isn’t a partisan issue and it’s not controversial or complicated.

We’re simply fighting for our lives before it’s someone else’s job. Being surrounded by like-minded people, validated our desire for more restrictive gun laws and representatives who will fight alongside our cause.

Why do adults continue to stand behind our youth when all that does is continue a cycle of inaction?

We found our purpose through March for Our Lives. As we were surrounded by an older and encouraging generation at the march, we discovered how essential the support of all Americans is to the success of any movement. Now we know the impact we are capable of creating. So we ask our community to stand with us and advocate for a safer school environment. Challenging authority can be daunting and uncomfortable but it’s necessary for growth. So if you are afraid to stand up for what you believe in, be afraid, but do it anyway.

Change isn’t comfortable.

Sincerely, Ileana Perez and Holly Hambleton

8

Features Volume 11, Issue 7

Let’s give ‘em something to talk about Policy debate champions discuss current season, future Ileana Perez | Co-Editor

Scott and Gutierrez have been on a team together for The Hawk Speech and Debate team holds four championship titles and juniors Dylan Scott and Trey Gutierrez about two and a half years and attended the same UIL state competition in the past. added a fifth 6A UIL State Cham“Last year, we went to the tournapion title in Policy Debate over Spring Break. ment but we didn’t advance,” Scott “[Balancing debate and said. “We thought we could do better Policy Debate specifically censchool work] is pretty this year.” ters around a resolutional idea in Despite the previous consecutive which teams of two either support tough because it’s a wins or refute a given topic, ultimately from other teams on the debate lot of research that you team, the juniors didn’t feel any extrying to persuade the judge of to succeed. their stance. In the past two years, have to do. It’s a lot of tra “Ipressure think it’s more of an incenPolicy Debate topics have includlate nights.” tive to do well at the tournament,” ed the issue of surveillance in Gutierrez said. “It doesn’t put more America, and economic and dipnerves on us. It makes us more exlomatic engagement with China. cited to do well.”

However, this year Scott and Gutierrez argue about whether or not In the three years that the juniors have been involved in debate, they to fund or regulate K-12 education. “[Balancing debate and school work] is pretty tough feel they gained valuable tools for other aspects of life.

“The research skills we gained from debate, because because it’s a lot of research that you have to do,” Gutiof the amount of work you have to do to know surface errez said. “It’s a lot of late nights.”

Trey Gutierrez, 11

1.

2.

level things about a topic is really helpful for outside of debate where we have school assignments,” Gutierrez said. “We know a lot of general knowledge that can help us in terms of how to look things up on Google.”

While the two still have another year until they graduate, they feel prepared for their future endeavors.

“Definitely the public speaking part of debate is beneficial for whatever we decide to do when we are adults,” Scott said. “It can help us get a job and get promotions in our jobs.”

As the debate season continues, Scott and Gutierrez plan to attend summer debate camps to improve their skills and define goals they wish to achieve senior year.

“We definitely want to win the state tournament again and there’s a national tournament at the end of the year that we want to do. We want to do well this year but next year we really want to perform well,” Gutierrez said. “[We want to] get more exposure to college, earlier on instead of have colleges see us our senior year. I’d rather have them notice us this year so we can have a better chance of debating in college.”

1.

After winning the 6A UIL State Championship in Policy Debate, juniors Trey Guiterrez and Dylan Scott show off their new award. “I think it definitely feels a lot better to win the tournament,” Gutierrez said. “Last year we went 2-2 and didn’t make it to the second day.” Both attended multiple debate camps over the summer to build their skills and prepare for various tournaments.

2.

Preparing for a tournament, juniors Trey Gutierrez and Dylan Scott communicate to find the best solution to an idea, such as education reform. “Whenever we are preparing a speech we know that both of us are good at different things,” Scott said. “We can help each other fill in the gaps where we have weaknesses.” Both hope their Policy Debate skills help them get into the college of their choice, due to their success.

9

Features April 20, 2018

Making Their Mark High achievers answer questions regarding successes, difficulties Megan Fletcher | Copy Editor

Q: Do you find your workload hard to manage at times?

Alejandro Castaneda, 11: Yeah, at times.

Debate is a pretty heavy research activity, so getting everything together and properly prepared before a tournament can be pretty stressful sometimes while trying to balance other AP classes as well.

Lily Blust, 10: Especially when [UIL Social Studies] was starting the topic [the Soviet Union] and getting into it, balancing out my other schoolwork with trying to study and catch up on all the social studies at first.

Tyler LaMarre, 12: I have a group of friends that are in [band and Buisness Professionals of America] and we hold each other accountable and help each other balance out our time. It definitely was difficult at the beginning of the year, but you eventually get the hang of it.

Q: If you’re planning on going to college, what are your top choices?

AC: I haven’t really put too much thought into it yet, but my top choice for sure would be UT Austin.

LB: I’m thinking about Colgate [University] and Case Western Reserve.

TL: I’m going to UT Austin.

Graduates of class of 2016 enrolled in college (57%)

Graduates of class of 2016 not enrolled in college (43%)

Q: How much time do you typically spend doing homework each night?

AC : Homework for regular classes can usually take [me] anywhere from two to three hours and debate work usually takes somewhere near and extra two hours, [although] it varies.

Q: Do you ever feel pressure Q: Did you stay in your from the people around you to extracurricular(s) and/or adcontinue doing what you do? vanced classes to challenge yourself, for your resume, or a AC: Not really, I really enjoy being in debate and find that it actually pushes me bit of both? academically to continue take AP classes and everyone in the activity is really an encouragement rather than negative pressure.

LB: I do, but it’s positive pressure. It’s not harmful. They’re just trying to keep me on track, keeping me motivated. It’s actually really helpful.

TL: I sometimes feel pressure from other people. It’s only ever to keep me motivated.

College exam and advanced class rates

AC: Honestly for both, but I also love debate and the skills you learn there are very transferable to other classes, so it does make it a bit easier.

Q: Do you know your major?

AC: Probably political science.

LB: History.

TL: Mechanical engineering.

The average new SAT score of the class of 2016 was a 1070.

Students not completing an advanced/dual credit course (54%)

Students completing an advanced/ dual credit course (46%)

10

Features Volume 11, Issue 7

power

to the people

Past, present protests allow activists to voice concern Alex Fulton | Co-Editor

Minor Alterations

C

heers and sounds of agreement fill the air as junior Rene Otero moves from one idea to another during his speech at the March for Our Lives Pflugerville protest.

The Monday before the protest Otero was asked by Health Science Practicum teacher Shay Haude to give a speech at the rally. Once he finalized his speech Otero was unsatisfied with his rhetoric and began to revise, edit and lengthen, moments before the protest began.

“I didn’t find it necessary to make real propositions to change but rather to encourage the people out there that day,” Otero said. “My speech was partly focused on reviewing the situation that many protesters associated with the March for Our Lives movement; the constant ridicule, the negative association and most disturbingly, the pushback Congress has expressed.”

The first protest Otero participated in occurred while he was at the Harvard

debate tournament. While walking the streets of Cambridge, Otero and his friend were stopped by a group of women who asked them if they would like to participate in a rally for President’s Day. Then Otero grabbed a premade sign and joined in on the chants at the event.

“When one of my fellow protesters found out what I was here for, she grabbed the bullhorn-from the mayor-and asked me to speak,” Otero said. “Off the cuff I gave a speech. Participating is a great way to show support, but speaking is a great way to move people to action.”

Larger ScalE

M

oments after the Stoneman Douglas shooting, senior Kami Gartner began following survivor Emma Gonzalez on social media and instantly knew she had to participate in the March for Our Lives.

Wanting to be a part of a larger crowd, Gartner joined thousands at the Austin event, marching from Austin City Hall to the Capital. For Gartner the March for Our

Lives allowed her to voice her dissatisfaction with the current protocol to obtain guns.

“Mass shootings happening at this rate are a direct result of little to no gun control,” Gartner said. “Children ranging from 5 to 18 years old are dying across the country, and nothing has happened to even try to prevent future occurrences.

I’m tired of the people in power sending their ‘thoughts and prayers’ when they clearly do nothing. We need legislation and a policy change. Enough is enough.”

At the protest Gartner saw younger generations joining adults to showcase the need for gun reform. One of Gartner’s signs, which read “I am not a snowflake,” allowed her to show legislation that her feelings aren’t fragile, as well as highlight the unity present at the march.

“I decided to march because I, along with so many other students, have a future ahead of us,” Gartner said. “My life, and the life of every other child is so much more important than people wanting to own an assault rifle. I got to see my generation, and the children after us stand their ground and use their voice for such an important purpose.”

Out for Reform

T

oday, senior Alexis Pence will walk out of class at precisely 10 a.m. for the National School Walkout Pflugerville in honor of the 19th anniver-

sary of the Columbine shooting. Around the nation, students will walk out of their schools to show the need for reform.

Locally, senior Virginia Gaffney organized the Pflugerville event in which students from all three PfISD high schools walk out and meet at The Pfield to listen to speakers and view artwork created for the protest.

“If you’re under the age of 18, adults don’t really take you seriously,” Pence said. “They always say ‘we’re their future,’ but they don’t treat us like we are.

They fail to acknowledge that what we see has to change, even if it’s only a little bit. That’s progress and I believe society constantly says, ‘because you’re under the age of 18 you really don’t know anything.’ Well that doesn’t always hold true.”

Pence believes that because minors cannot purchase alcohol, they should not be allowed to buy high ammunition rifles.

Although she came from a family accustomed to hunting, Pence urges students of varying opinions on gun reform to take part in the walkout.

“You don’t have to be fully devoted to getting rid of guns that’s not what [the walkout] is about,” Pence said. “It’s about changing the way we view society, the way we view laws. Never be afraid to speak your mind. I think people who want to walkout are going to speak their mind and say, ‘Look, this is something that has to change.’”

1.

Both Karen Lives Aust For Our Liv

3.

Features April 20, 2018

Here to Help

Officers provide assistance to community Abigail Hill | Asst. Editor

E

ver since the shooting at Stoneman Douglas High School, School Recourse Officers (SROs) react and change policies when and if threats happen. In the occurrence like a school shooting, officers are brought to attention and looked upon by many.

“We have done different stuff here as far as security goes, like making sure doors are locked the way they’re supposed to be,” Officer Paul Gutierrez said. “We’re trying to educate students about not letting people in and making sure people badge in when they’re supposed to.”

The officers are here to inform students and staff, as well as the community to let

them know what they are doing in order to make sure everyone is aware of the action taking place.

“We’ve met with students that have requested a teacher sit down and talk with them,” Gutierrez said. “We have kids that come in here and ask questions about situations like that if they feel uneasy.”

To prepare for any violent act at the school, SROs go through active shooter training every year.

“We’re always trained to go to [the scene] and stop the threat,” Gutierrez said. “But we’re all human, so until that day comes we can’t really say what we would do.”

ern over school gun violence

1.

2.

oth Karenna Lowcher (pictured in 1) and April Castellanos (pictured in 2) attended March For Our ives Austin on March 24, while Virginia Gaffney and Sabine Gray (pictured in 3) attended March or Our Lives Pflugerville on the same day.

3.

The Aftermath

11

Alex Fulton | Co-Editor

Immediately following the Parkland shooting on Feb. 14, politicians, student activists, corporations and the media came together to express dissatisfaction with school gun violence. Here’s just a few of the events that occurred the weeks following the tragedy.

FEB. 22

March 9

The state of Oregon passes a bill banning people convicted of domestic violence, stalking or under a restraining order from purchasing guns and ammunition. The bill was later signed and approved by state governor Kate Brown on March 5.

Florida governor Rick Scott passes the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School Public Safety Act which includes raising the age to buy a rifle to 21 and requiring customers to undergo a three day waiting period before they can purchase a firearm. Additionally, the bill states teachers could be armed if they underwent special training from the state, however, school districts are allowed to opt out of arming their staff.

FEB. 27 Rhode Island passes a “red flag” executive order. This order gives law enforcement the power to confiscate guns from people who demonstrate suspicious activity, such as making threats online or in person.

FEB. 28

In a press release, Dick’s Sporting Goods announces they will raise the age to buy firearms to 21, end the sale of assault rifles, high-capacity magazines, and continue to not sell bump stocks.

FEB. 28 Walmart announces the corporation will raise the age to buy firearms and ammunition to 21. Back in 2015, the chain grocery store decided to stop selling “modern sport rifles, including AR-15s” and does not sell bump stocks or high capacity magazines.

FEB. 28

The Paramount Network pushes back the premiere of the planned Heathers TV series. Originally planned to debut on March 7, producers felt the violence depicted on the show was inappropriate so soon after the Parkland shooting.

March 6

Washington governor Jay Inslee signs a bill banning the sale and use of bump stocks, a recoil that allows shots to be fired rapidly. Bump stocks were used in the Las Vegas shooting.

March 14 In line with the National School Walkout on the same day, Viacom Networks, such as MTV, Nickelodeon and Comedy Central, cut off programing for 17 minutes at 8 am. During the 17 minutes offline MTV chose to feature several young activists advocating for gun reform and their stories.

March 24 Announced by Stoneman Marjory Douglas junior Cameron Kasky four days after the shooting, the March for Our Lives occurs across the nation and the world.

From Berlin to Washington DC people of all ages came together to voice their concerns with school violence.

April 2 Stoneman Marjory Douglas students experience several new security measures once returning to classes after spring break. These new mechanisms include requiring students to wear clear backpacks that were donated to the entire student body. Additionally, the school is stationing eight Florida Highway Patrol officers, locking classroom doors at all times and only allowing students through four entrances before school and one after the first bell.

12

Feature Volume 11, Issue 7

Connecting the Dots Club sees success in uniting special, general education population Holly Hambleton | Asst. Editor

Best Buddies, an international organization, aims to foster friendship and leadership for those with intellectual developmental disabilities. Last semester, a group of people wanting to strengthen the relationship between those in general education and special education formed a local chapter. With the start of the club, membership grew, but not without difficulty.

“Like any club, getting the word out to our large school body has been difficult since communication to the entire school can be challenging,” president and junior Zoe Jones said. “But one of our greatest barriers has actually been reaching out to the parents, as this is a unique club and requires the involvement of the parents of the special needs community at Hendrickson.”

Due to the separation of those in general and special education, the club’s activities take place outside of school. They host holiday parties, game nights, sports tournaments and other interactive events to include the hobbies and interests of many different people.

“Best Buddies works to accept all different types of people with ranging disabilities through creating a student body at Hendrickson of those in the general education program who are more aware of the challenges those with special needs have and how they are truly wonderful kids,” Jones said. “I’m filled with so much joy to be able to watch students in the special education community developing new friendships and see students in the general education community expanding their

horizon and realizing how amazing these students are.”

The regional club connects with the national program to stay updated and report on progress. Through constant communication, the club can receive aid and advice on how to better the community while also posting on social media accounts to recruit new members.

“I think as a club that promotes equality for those with challenges in society, we speak out for being kind to anyone and everyone, and understanding that there are many challenges faced by individuals in society,” Jones said. “It is extremely important for people to always be loving and accept people whom they may not have thought they would have noticed or appreciated before.”

Teachers express importance and impact of Autism Awareness Month McKenzie Quiroz | Reporter

Even though Autism Awareness is dedicated to one month, vocational teacher Heather Lindgren and speech therapy teacher Margaret Jashinsky interact with autism on a daily basis. Autism is a spectrum ranging from nonverbal to hyper verbal, extreme intelligence to intellectually disabled, and isolated to social. Autism Awareness Month allows information, such as this to be shared through various individuals, while addressing misconceptions.

“Before I started teaching, I had the opportunity to work with students with special needs, and since that time, for both personal and professional reasons, I wanted to be able to continue that work,” Lindgren said. “Working with students with autism has brought both joy and struggle to my life, but the struggles occur when I need to find better ways to help my students.”

Having the ability to personally work with students on the autism spectrum, and a diversity of personalities in

the classroom, has altered the way both teachers view their everyday life. Dealing with students with special needs made them realize their aspirations in life include helping all people on the spectrum.

“My nonverbal students have given me an appreciation for my voice and they show me that love is expressed in many ways,” Jashinsky said. “My verbal students have shown me new ways to see the world, inspiring me to advocate for their futures after high school.”

A common misconception of autism is that those affected have a lower level of intelligence, or can’t make connections, when in reality they struggle communicating their thoughts and emotions. They struggle with social skills, however modeling appropriate social skills and participating in social situations allows them to develop their skills. The statistics are low for people with disabilities in terms of getting employment and keeping employment.

“I think that it is important to increase autism awareness for many reasons,” Lindgren said. “As a vocational teacher, I have concerns about job availability for my students, maybe as we continue to increase autism awareness it will create greater job opportunities for my students.”

Jashinsky is a member of a committee through the Autism Society of Texas called Austinclusive, whose mission is to make Austin the most inclusive city in the world, hoping to connect businesses to people with autism and other disabilities.

“We are hoping that we can bridge the gap between employers who do not understand the amazing potential of people with disabilities and people with disabilities learning to function in an employed setting,” Jashinsky said. “I also hope that I have helped my students believe they are more than their diagnosis and empower them to be successful in a confusing world.”

13

Features April 20, 2018

UGANDA GHANA

UNITED STATES

CYPRUS

Pals Across the World

Geography teacher fosters opportunity for pen pals in multiple countries Abigail Hill | Asst. Editor

Reaching to countries across the map, world geography teacher Cassandra Neve provided a chance for her freshmen students to write to foreign pen pals.

“Countries are randomly assigned and through a program they match you with kids who want pen pals in America,” Neve said. “It works out perfectly because this is a geography class.”

The classes exchanged letters with students from Uganda, Ghana, Israel, Cyprus and Ukraine about once a month depending on where they are sending letters to and who they are communicating with.

“How do you send letters in the middle of Ghana?” Neve said. “You’ve got to figure it out somehow and some of the letters we did for Cyprus were all through email, so those were easy.”

Every time each class sends a letter, they include new facts about themselves and new topics.

“They start off with talking about themselves and what they like to do, then we talk about school,” Neve said.

“Your home life, what they like in the area, that sort of thing.”

Being able to communicate with places across the globe has taught Neve the importance of knowledge and being aware of the world.

“It has definitely opened our eyes with how kids are so eager to learn and communicate with other classrooms and opened up my eyes with just how school is so different for everybody else,” Neve said.

The students from the designated countries and each class have exchanged gifts as the last step in their pen pal journey.

“We got this huge box from Cyprus which included food, handmade things, and some girl has her great grandmother’s lace that she sent her pen pal,” Neve

said. “One of my students made 50 plus bracelets that they all wear.”

Although this is Neve’s first year to have pen pals, she decided to do it again in the future as well, making only a couple adjustments.

“I like how it’s gone so far, only difference I would think to make is being able to contact the other teacher and laying out what we want to do from the beginning instead of dragging it on,” Neve said.

Neve believes that having done this, it has brought new opportunity for her students to learn more about other cultures and engage in other students’ lives.

“Their school is where they live and are required to scrub down the school top to bottom, so obviously it’s way different from here,” Neve said. “[Our students] get to enjoy not only what they have, but they are learning that the rest of the world is bigger than just our school.”

14

Features Volume 11, Issue 7

Something From Nothing

Engineer begins patenting process for redesigned tape dispenser McKenna Lucas | Asst. Editor

T

he 3D printer, surrounded by sketches and humming with the life, slowly created a new appliance that

ries of layers. It is a useful tool because it makes the trial and error process more affordable and less time consuming.

“I would like to go into some form of could be used in stores across the nation.

After developing a new sticker dis- engineering or a product development penser, senior Zachary Scott works to- field,” Scott said. “The process I’ve gone through has taught me things that would wards getting his invention patented.

“I invented, designed and produced a apply to future products. Inventing this simplified tape dispenser that is intend- product has changed the way I look at potential probed to make the dislems to solve and pensing of stickers I’ve thought of a easier,” Scott said.

“I invented, designed, few more ideas as “I saw a need for a result from this and produced a simplithe device and felt experience.” like I could make it fied tape dispenser that Product devela reality with the opers work with is intended to make the resources I have other engineers available to me.” dispensing of stickers and businessmen Scott’s sticker in the process easier.” dispenser is speof bringing new cifically marketed products into the towards grocery market. Through stores and chain engineering and stores that require business deals, a lot of stickers to they turn ideas distinguish that a into inventions. customer has paid “I knew it would be in my best interfor an item, despite not using a plastic est to patent the invention before I began bag.

“I first started by drawing out a rough trying to sell it,” Scott said. “The patent idea for my design on paper,” Scott said. process took several weeks, but I was “These drawings eventually translated eventually able to acquire patent pendover into three dimensional models in ing status.”

The patenting process ensures that the computer software. Once I had a design I inventor has complete control and ownliked, I was able to 3D print my idea and ership of the making, selling and use of bring it to life. It then became a trial and error process to finalize a design that their product. Patents protect engineers from other people stealing their ideas or satisfied all of its requirements.”

Scott saw the need for a simplified tape products. Patent pending status means dispenser after getting a job at HEB. To that although the engineer wants proprevent stickers and tape from being sto- tection from thievery, the patent hasn’t len, workers put the tape in the cash reg- been officially authorized yet.

“Once I was able to 3D print a design ister when they are not working. The tape I was confident in, I began testing it at needed to be easily removable from the HEB,” Scott said. “The strong positive simplified dispenser. He used 3D printing sentiment from everyone who saw it technology to experiment with different variations of the dispenser. 3D printers made me realize that my invention could can easily develop new prototypes by have potential.”

Zachary Scott, 12

building the final product through a se-

Connections That Stick

Photo provided by Zachary Scott

Scott stands with Hutto’s HEB Plus’s managers with his tape dispenser. “My invention is independent from HEB, so that I can retain complete ownership,” Scott said.

Currently no HEBs are using his dispensers yet, but Scott remains optimistic that his dispenser will eventually be used in hundreds of stores.

3D printing technology creates business opportunities Virginia Gaffney | Reporter

Entrepreneurial spirit started young for senior Christian Boswell, inspiring him to open his own Etsy shop selling 3D printed products. HelixPrinting specializes in figurines and decorative names intended to be ordered as gifts.

“Names take about five to ten minutes to print, but other orders with more complexity can take hours. The time depends on the size, but, usually three to four hours each for figurines,” Boswell said.

“I’ve made about half of what I spent, which isn’t too bad, as I’ll have the printer forever and I will not stop pursuing my business.”

The advent of 3D printing opened the doors to custom design that literally jumps off the page. Learning to use mod-

elling software means unlimited opportunities to visualize and realize creations.

“I taught myself through exploration and YouTube. I use Cura, Inventor, and Blender,” Boswell said. “They’re pretty user friendly, I could teach someone all of the necessary things in 15 minutes.”

Dedication is what keeps a business alive. Boswell surrounds himself with supportive friends who help spread the word about Helix Printing.

“I want anyone who is passionate with building to have all the tools available to them and I’d love to help along the way,” Boswell said. “Explore all the fields our school has to offer and try to find a passion. I found mine in engineering and the amazingness of 3D printing.”

Features April 20,, 2018

Simon Says

15

Sophomores, juniors give insight on LGBT representation film Carolina Yanez | Reporter

Love, Simon features a high school teen that falls for an anonymous classmate online, however he hasn’t told his family or friends his secret revolving around his sexual orientation. The film shows a message of personal acceptance as well as displaying the importance of being true to oneself and not being afraid of others opinions, with the

support from a group of family and friends.

Love, Simon conveys everyone is deserving of love no matter race, gender, or sexual orientation. Sophomore Andrew Aguirre and juniors Kiley Martin and Brandon Benavides of the GSA club and community, share their thoughts on the movie.

Why is this movie important for people to go out and see?

A.A.: It’s a movie that has a great message of having courage and not caring for what people think of you as a person because everyone has problems. It empowers people to not be afraid and talk about issues that society doesn’t like to face sometimes.

K.M.: It’s important for people to go and watch it because it’s not uncommon for teens to come out as gay, but many are scared to do so and Love, Simon shows how your friends and family will still love you no matter what. I think the message the movie is trying to portray is that everybody should be able to love who they want, no matter what race, size and even gender.

B.B.: It shows a new era of acceptance and it’s important for younger generations to see a movie like this to help them if they are confused and unsure if it’s okay, and are struggling to accept themselves. The movie spreads a message of love and acceptance.

foxmovies.com

How did the movie make you feel?

Why is it important to show representation in movies?

A.A.: It empowered me as a person after I watched it for the second time, I honestly felt like I could do anything and it made me not fear who I am. It showed that people are rooting for you in the long run and your friends are really there for you. It shows that building up courage to do something like Simon and being afraid of others emotions towards what you’re going to do doesn’t matter.

A.A: These are topics that aren’t normally discussed. This is the first movie that’s been this public and although conflict can get in the way, they need to be discussed because people go through troubles all their life and especially high schoolers. It goes in depth and talks about topics that should be discussed more often.

K.M.: The movie made me so happy and how his family and friends accepted him so easily was really amazing. It showed that everything will be okay if you do plan on coming out to your family and friends, they just want you to be true to yourself.

K.M.: The are many people in the world just like Simon, so the topic of this movie is very relatable for many people and it deserves to be seen by all. Your family will still love you and support you no matter what because they love you, and you are still who you are before you came out.

B.B.: It made me feel really lucky and grateful for what I have and how loving and accepting my parents are. It was an amazing movie to see with my parents because we had been through the exact same thing.

B.B.: It’s a good way for younger generations to see movies like this especially on big screens. Younger generations need to learn that it’s okay and be able to accept themselves and not think something is wrong with them.

16

Entertainment Volume 11, Issue 7

more than a game Player shares personal experiences, opinions on video games Paul Le | Reporter

The Upsets

It isn’t often where I enjoy a game in the horror genre by myself, but it’s exactly what I did playing through the “Dead Space” franchise. The first two games in the “Dead Space” saga follows Isaac Clarke, an engineer, stranded alone on a space station, forced to fend off many forms of mutated organisms known as the “Necromorphs.” Ammunition and medical packs were limited throughout the space station, forcing the player to be smart with how they manage the given resources. Grotesque and daunting, the environment was as the player journeys through it with increasing paranoia at every corner and opening of enclosed doors. When “Dead Space 3” was first announced, it instantly became one of my most anticipated upcoming sequel to any gaming franchise. As more and more features were announced leading up to its release, I would be greeted with much skepticism. Once the game was released, many fans including myself found the release to be the most underwhelming entry in the saga because of what it failed to accomplish, which is to provide a sense of horror. The new cooperative feature and weapon crafting mechanic completely removes any tingling sensation of helplessness or fear. It becomes harder to be afraid when you have another player watching your back, especially if both are carrying loaded shotguns with a grenade launcher that are laced with acid, or a machine gun that rips through limbs while electrifying them. Any source of danger or defenselessness felt from prior games were all mitigated with the new game features. Not to say the third entry was a bad game, it was good for what it is as an action shooter, but it’s not what Dead Space is. Dead Space is a sci fi horror, and the third entry of the franchise failed to deliver what was intended.

The Memories

When I wasn’t busy raging like a nerd playing “League of Legends” in the olden days, I would find myself and one of my best friends enjoying another game known as “Borderlands 2.” We first jumped into the game together during Thanksgiving break freshmen year. It was on sale through a gaming service named “Steam.” We each bought ourselves a copy for five dollars. It would soon be the best five dollars we’ve spent in our lives. Day by day, we explored the vast open world of “Pandora,” playing our personally customized characters through the main story of our heroes’ attempt of defeating the charming and charismatic villain, “Handsome Jack.” We both still find satisfaction as we blast our way through many different variety of enemies, using different weaponry we find throughout the game.

The game is packed with content, through different weapons that could be discovered and looted, with multiple different ways to design and play our custom characters to our liking, easter eggs referencing other items in pop culture, and many side quests as we play through the main story and after finishing it. It is common for us to encounter unique and memorable characters, which provides a sense of humor, reminding us the game is nothing to take seriously.

It is this game which played a significant role in developing our relationship early on. Though we don’t play the game as much as we used to anymore, we still revisit it once a year as a tradition calling it “Borderlands Season.” Every year around Thanksgiving break, we boot up the game, start from scratch and play through the game once again. It has been an ongoing tradition, and will be continued on in anticipation of the announced sequel to the franchise. “Borderlands 2” will serve as one of the fundamental foundations in our relationship because of how it provided us with one of our best gaming experiences of all time.

The Evolution When “The Last of Us” first hit the scene as a Playstation 3 exclusive back in 2013, it was quickly revered as one of the greatest masterpiece of gaming history. A little over a year later, it would be remastered for the Playstation 4 allowing players to relive the events of the game’s story, while reaching out to a new audience. Fans erupted with unfathomable excitement as “The Last of Us 2” was announced at the annual Playstation Experience Conference in 2016. Among the excitement, skepticism could be found among the fans, asking how can the developers improve on what is already considered perfect. The answer would rather be simple, and it is they simply don’t.

In order for the sequel to be as or more successful as its predecessor, the developers simply need to give the players more of the original story. The previous game’s story, complimented with creative set pieces, and character chemistry between the two leads, all carried the weight of success. Giving the player more of the original success formula, followed with minor tweaks and adjustments to the gameplay mechanics, will more than likely guarantee the same critical acclaim for the upcoming sequel.

Of course, there are other improvements the developing team could make, such as a graphical upgrade, developing a smoother and sophisticated gameplay, and creating more content for the game’s prior player versus player multiplayer aspect. In the end, what all the fans truly want is a continued experience given to them from the prior story.

The Impact

Gamers explain reasons they enjoy playing Camryn Sadlier | Reporter

The art of video gaming is a popular source of entertainment all around the world. Games such as Fortnite: Battle Royale and PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds (Pub G) have impacted many.

Recently, these two games have taken over and are rising on the charts, breaking the record for number of players, Fortnite gained 3.4 million gamers in February. Gaming is not only a way to spend free time but a way to interact with others.

“For me, gaming has been a way to connect with friends who don’t live around me,” sophomore Ross Lischka said. “I got into playing video games because one of

my close friends moved away in third grade so we went out and bought Xboxes so that we could keep in touch.”

Fortnite became popular recently, despite coming out in July 2017. With many players on the gaming platform, people can make connections across the country. These addictive games also cause unproductivity when it comes to school work, having many compatible platforms.

“Gaming has impacted my life heavily because instead of going home and being productive, I just play Fortnite,” senior Grayson Klanika said. “I play video games every day. If I don’t play, I start to fiend for it.”

1

Rise and

2

Entertainment April 20, 2018

17

Grind

Local spots prove ideal for AP, STAAR test studying sessions 3

4

Star Coffee Anna Schulze | Reporter

S

tar Coffee, a lively coffee shop located in downtown Round Rock, offers free WiFi and live entertainment on weekends, including belly dancers and a variety of local artists. With large tables, and fairly priced coffee, food, and desserts that includes Amy’s ice cream, this coffee shop is a great place to study Monday through Thursday, and often not overly crowded or loud. However, this is not a place for a quiet weekend study, often jammed packed and loud entertainment is a guarantee, studying not so much.

Lamppost Coffee Ileana Perez | Co-Editor

V

ibrant, lively, and a little retro looking, Lamppost Coffee is a perfect study spot to spend hours working individually or with a group. This low-key coffee shop has a calming atmosphere and nothing is too loud or chaotic, which creates a perfect place for concentration. In addition, Lamppost Coffee offers a variety of caffeinated beverages, from iced coffee, to hot lattes, and even pastries that leave visitors wanting more. Despite its location in Round Rock, the shop is only a 15-minute drive from Hendrickson, which is a perfect distance for those not looking to run into anyone they might know.

Teapioca Lounge Camryn Sadlier | Reporter

T 5

6

1. Star Coffee 2 & 6. Austin Central Library 3. Lamppost Coffee 4.Target Starbucks 5.

Teapioca Lounge Photos provided by Anna Schulze, Alex Fulton, Camryn Sadlier, Brisa Espinoza

he overwhelming sense of a studious atmosphere becomes clear the second one walks into the well-loved boba tea shop. The recent addition to the strip mall off 685, Teapioca Lounge, is visited by students every day. With many cozy seating options, it is an enjoyable place to study, from the assortment of games to play when on study breaks such as Jenga and Monopoly, to the delicious drinks. The unique drink options such as the passion fruit and orange smoothie is one of the many pluses of this tea shop. There is an abundance of boba and bursters to choose from to put in the drinks. Overall, Teapioca Lounge is a comfortable study spot and is one of the more notable drink shops.

and Ileana Perez

Austin Central Library Alex Fulton | Co-Editor

A

lthough located in downtown Austin, the Austin Central Library welcomes all visitors whether or not they live in Austin. The library houses six stories of books, study tables, and computers perfect for group or individual study sessions, none of which require a library card to use. No obnoxious music or loud chatter occur in this study space, providing students optimal focus on their assignments. The two floors of nonfiction books are a great resource for students looking for sources for research papers or simply looking for additional information for upcoming AP exams.

Unlike other study spots, the Austin Central Library provides both indoor and outdoor space, offering fresh air for those becoming tired of residing inside. Perhaps one of the newest study spot options, the Austin Central Library is worth fighting the traffic and driving the extra miles that comes with going downtown.

Target Starbucks Brisa Espinoza | Reporter

T

he moment customers walk in, they’re instantly welcomed with the smell of coffee beans and calm vibes throughout. The coffee shop’s environment, makes it the ideal place to study notes for exams or to do homework. Many local stores, such as Target, have a Starbucks within allowing customers to study in these stores, making needed supplies such as books and pencils accessible, as well as food and snacks apart from the ones offered at Starbucks. Starbucks is a great place to study, not only because the availability of caffeine, but also because there are others there wanting to achieve the same success.

18

Sports Volume 11, Issue 7

Track Q&A Taylor Hawthorne | Reporter

Q

What events do you participate in and which is your favorite? Why?

“I run the 100, 200, 4x100, and 4x200 meter races. My favorite is the 200 meter because I feel like I do my best in that race compared to the others. Also, you get a rush when running the 200, because it is such a fast race and I love getting that feeling.

-Emmanuel Wheeler, 12

“I run the 1600 meter and I alternate between the 3200 and 800 meter. My favorite is the 1600 meter, because it is a good combination of speed and endurance, which I feel is my strong suit.”

-Jade Marsh, 9

Thailand Krueger | Photographer

Sophomore, Cassandra Nguyen pushes through the last 100 meters of her race to make sure none of her opponents pass her up.

Q

What does an every day track practice look like?

“An everyday track practice starts with an 800-meter dash then dynamic stretches.

After, we go to our race specific coach mine is Coach Welch to practice on the race we compete in. Then usually, we work on our hurdles and stamina throughout the race.”

-Brennan Dees, 9 “An everyday track practice for me can be a few different things. Sometimes I do tempo workouts with high mileage, other practices, it could be speed workouts incorporating the 800, 400, and 200 meter repeats. Then on Sunday, I do long runs usually from seven or eight miles.”

-Jade Marsh, 9

Sarah Rivas | Photographer

While jumping over a hurdle during his race, sophomore Dyderick Darden focuses on his next hurdle.

Q

What is your favorite part about a track meet?

“My favorite part about a track meet is hanging out with my friends and competing. I enjoy competing, because it allows me to try and do my best to beat others. I love the feeling of winning a race and knowing I did my best to ensure I would win for me and my school.”

-Brennan Dees, 9

“My favorite part about a track meet is the competitive aspect of track, because you have a lot of opportunities to get personal records and to push your limits. I love pushing myself to do my best and that is what track is all about.”

-Jade Marsh, 9

“I love the rush of running and competing against other runners. I am so competitive and the sport is very one on one with your competitors and that is good for me. I get into a whole new mindset when I prepare for my races, someone who doesn’t want to lose and it is exhilarating.”

-Emmanuel Wheeler, 12

Thailand Krueger | Photographer

Senior Thomas Williams takes off to begin his 4x2 relay race after hearing the gun go off.

An Ongoing Tradition

McKenzie Quiroz | Photographer

Sports April 20, 2018

19

Boys, Girls Soccer advance to 6A Area Playoffs Kaitlin Mackey | Asst. Editor

Continuing the tradition, both the boys and girls soccer teams advanced to the 2018 Boys/ Girls Soccer 6A Area Playoffs.

Last season in playoffs the boys’ team made it to the third round, competing against Anderson, Klein Forest, and Stony Point. However, the boys ended up getting knocked out of playoffs by the Stony Point Tigers, losing 1-3. After losing, they claimed the title of Area Champions.

This year, the boys team finished the district season third in district, trailing behind McNeil and Westwood. They ended the district season with a total of six wins, four losses, and two ties. This is the first time the boys make it to playoffs with Jacob Stern as their head coach.

“My favorite district game was when we played Pflugerville the first time,” junior Jorge Calderon said, “It was a tough game, but it was also the best game I played and we ended up beating them 2-1 at their stadium” After a two-hour bus ride to College Station, an hour-long weather delay, and a tough rainy game, the team was unsuccessful and were knocked out of playoffs during round two of playoffs, losing against the Nimitz Cougars 0-1.

“My biggest motivation during playoffs was proving all of the people that doubted our team’s skills wrong.” Calderon

said. “It gave our team a chance to show tall the people that tried to intimidate us that we’re a good team both on and off the field.”

Seven different teams. Five shutouts. Three overtimes. One nerveracking shootout 5-4. Twentyfour goals. Thirteen girls gone.

Last season, the girls went through all seven rounds, each game harder than the previ-

“At hard times we all worked together as a team because we all knew we wanted to win so we never gave up at any point.”

- Jenna Hartle, 12 ous games and stayed undefeated only getting scored on seven times throughout the month-long journey.

“The State Final was my favorite game last year because it was different.” senior captian Jenna Hartle said, “we never had that kind of experience with winning at Hendrickson and being the first soccer team to ever win the State Championship was pretty amazing.”

Despite losing thirteen girls due to seniors moving on, the opening of Weiss, or not being able to play because of club, the girls team not only finished the district

Kaitlin Mackey | Photographer

During the playoff game against the Nimitz Cougars, senior Jose Estrada keeps the ball from going outof-bounds, as his teammate junior Rodrigo Arellano runs around him to retrieve a pass

season placing third in district as well, with a total of eight wins, three losses, and one tie., but also advanced to playoffs once again.

“I think there was some extra pressure, but the team wasn’t really bothered by it because each game we went into we saw it as just another game.” Hartle said.

The girls traveled to Bryan High Merrill Stadium to play opponents from last season, Memorial High School. The girls played their hardest, but were defeated by the Mustangs 1-3.

“I was pretty upset about the game against Memorial because it was my last game ever and it was also a very difficult game.”

Hartle said. “Memorial was really good and there was some pressure because we knew going in that they were good. I feel like we could’ve calmed down a little bit to play better, but we did the best we could and in the end that’s what matters.”

Both games were emotional for both the boys and the girls. There were many tears shed either out of frustration and disappointment or from seniors who finished playing their last high school game. Although both teams were taken out of playoffs during the second round and were named Bi-District Champions, they’re ready for new opportunities that next season holds for them.

Faith D’Alfonso | Photographer

Junior, Brooke Hebert keeps possession of the ball while her opponent tries to steal the ball during the “Battle of the Ville” match..

Junior Olivia Draguicevich attempts to block her opponent from getting the ball as the ball approaches them in the air during the playoff game against the Memorial Mustangs.

Ultimate Frisbee team starting up Taylor Hawthorne | Reporter

Ultimate Frisbee is a new team created by juniors Bryce Hann and Simon Thai. The club plays and practices like every other sport, competing against many other schools to ultimately make playoffs.

Although the newly added sport is not familiar to many students, the interest in the club is continually growing.

“The thought of an Ultimate Frisbee team has been around for years, but this year a couple of my friends and I decided to finally start it,” Hann said. “I play frisbee, because the nature of the game creates long lasting friendships and an environment hospitable to everyone.”

The school doesn’t have a set frisbee practice or game location, so the team plays across town. The sport isn’t as physically demanding in the aspect of practices, which to many of the players, makes the game more enjoyable.

“We practice Mondays and Thursdays on the upper practice field above the football stadium,” junior Nick Study said. “Only having two days of practice is helpful, because I still have time for school work, but still able to continue to get better. We play

most of our games at East Metro Park against almost all of the schools in the Austin area, which is a lot of teams.”

The sport is similar to the most familiar ones, such as basketball or football in terms of rules and how the game is played. Frisbee can be seen as a complicated sport, but is easy to get the hang of.

“The game is similar to football, where you move down the field to try and score in the ‘end zone’ when your team has the frisbee,” senior Seth Cummings said. “You can’t move when you have possession of the frisbee. Your teammates have to move around you and get open, so you can pass the frisbee off. If your team drops the frisbee, the other team takes possession.”

Ultimate Frisbee is like every other sport, where the players have things they struggle with or need to work on.

“The most difficult aspect of Ultimate Frisbee is learning the more advanced ways to throw the frisbee,” Study said.

“I sometimes struggle getting the frisbee to go where I want it to, but I know with more practice I will be able to fix that. I am excited to see how the team and I continue to improve throughout the season.”

20

Humans of HHS Volume 11, Issue 7

United Nation

Teens explain personal definitions of being American Alex Fulton | Co-Editor

Ileana Perez | Photographer

Abigail Hill | Photographer

With people coming from virtually every corner of the world to the United States, the definition of the “All-American” has been skewed in recent years. Nowadays being American has evolved into much more than someone born in the United States. Given the recent backlash politicians have instilled on immigrants, students were asked what exactly an American is in an era where there is no clear definition.

“To me, the ideal American is someone who has a heart for others. We pride ourselves on unity and wave the flag with a sense of patriotism, but nothing is more important than caring for the people who that flag represents. Americans must make their best efforts to create peace, ensure equality, and reach out to others. To be American is to be responsible for serving to the best of our capabilities. It is to remain informed in an area of ignorance. It is to speak up for ourselves and to raise the voices of others with us.”

Sadaf Karim, 12 “Being American means having the privilege of independence and freedom. Freedom of religion, speech, assembly, freedom against persecution and so much more. We are granted opportunities and guaranteed rights numerous people in other areas of the world, unfortunately, aren’t. How we use these liberties are what truly defines us as Americans. The ways in which we contribute to society, pledge allegiance to the flag, and live our lives to accomplish goals beneficial to all. Helping others fulfill their dreams and function safely in the world is what it means to be American.”

Sydney Stogel, 11

Hoang-Nghi Nguyen, 9

“To me, being American means to be free. With this freedom we are provided, it is right to respect the freedom of those around us as much as you value your own. For the longest time, being an American provided many chances for an opportunity to pursue desired goals. But over time, the definition of being an American has changed mostly because of how much the younger generations are required to work harder for success in the future. Now most people’s mindset is focused on working constantly everyday, instead of doing what they love to do.”

“Being an American to me means I get rights many people don’t have in other countries. However we have many flaws in our society hindering the ability for others to enjoy these rights we have fought for. Though this is true I am still proud to be an American.”

Alex Castillo, 12